E-edition March 9, 2017 by Pine City Pioneer

Change your clocks: Daylight saving time begins March 12

Pioneer PINE CITY

THURSDAY, MARCH 9, 2017

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HOOPS HOPES: Dragon boys start playoffs vs. Mora at home Thursday, March 9 @ 7 p.m. P13

Loun loses control at sentencing Murderer of toddler Dante Sears receives 40 year sentence BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

After emotional statements from the family of Dante Sears, and an angry, profane outburst from the defendant, Jonathan Michael Loun, 32, was sentenced to 40 years in prison on March 7. Loun had previously pled guilty to unintentional second-degree murder for beating two-year-old Dante Sears in Sandstone on Aug. 24, 2015, causing injuries which led to the child’s death five days later, just after Dante’s third birthday.

CHRISTINA BLAISER

Neid wrestles hard at State Despite a loss in the first round of the State Tournament, Dragon wrestler Dakotah Neid can look back on a 22-2 senior season.

‘HE LOVED EVERYONE’ At the sentencing hearing in Pine County Court, members of Dante’s family were given the opportunity to offer victim statements. Dante’s grandmother, Beverly Olson, spoke first. “The person who sits before the court has confessed to this savage beating and murder,” she said. “There was a God-given life, a child, a happy, innocent little boy. Dante, you were just a pure joy to be with. You lit up that big smile ... and everyone smiled back.” She talked about how excited Dante would

be to be going to his grandparents’ house, “Stopping on the road to say moo to the cows wave at horses on the way. I miss you. I miss everything about you. I have no doubt you would have grown up t be a warmhearted, gentle, kind man. Your chance to live that life was ripped away from you. I am so sorry that we couldn’t save you from that evil.” His grandfather wrote that he had a special bond with Dante. “He made the day brighter somehow. He seemed to always be laughing. We would go on walks in the woods, and he would splash in every puddle he could find. I was looking forward to all the fun we would have. I would give anything to get another hug from him. He loved everyone, even people who are weak and cowardly and evil.” Dante’s father, Dustin Sears, spoke next. “Not a single parent can imagine such a thing without starting to die inside,” Sears said. He described life now as “A nightmare every night. Then you have to get out of bed and live the nightmare. I reach out for a child that isn’t there. Every child I see has his eyes.” He said it’s impossible to fathom that Loun will someday be released, and prayed SEE SENTENCE, PAGE 14

Water buffer enforcement questioned BY AILENE CROUP NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

In 2015, Minnesota passed a buffer law to establish vegetation buffers of up to 50 feet along rivers, streams and ditches to filter out phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment. The law was updated in 2016. With compliance deadlines looming, discussion at Pine County Board’s Committee of the Whole meeting last week was about who will do the enforcement - who will be the buffer police? Minnesota’s Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) oversees the buffer plan.

The law requires landowners to plant perennial vegetation in the buffer zone to prevent phosphorus, nitrogen and sediment from seeping into public waters. All public waters (rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands) require 50 feet on either side be reserved as buffer zone and all public drainage systems such as ditches require a buffer of 16.5 feet on either side. Landowner may not know their ditches are public water. Public waters are marked on the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) public water inventory map. Private ditches are exempt from the law. An acre of land with a stream run-

ning end-to-end would lose almost half of its planting capacity for row crops to the buffer zone, not including the stream or its banks. The buffer zone would stretch 50 feet beyond the banks. A one-acre field with a public ditch running end-to-end would lose onesixth of its acreage to the buffer zone. Assessor/Recorder/Zoning Director Kelly Schroeder told this reporter that mowing and grazing is permitted in the buffer zone. Row crops such as corn and soybeans are not allowed in the zone, and over-grazing resulting in bare land would be prohibited. SEE BUFFER, PAGE 14

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MARCH 9, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

County proposes trash Predatory offender Contreras moves into Pine City area collection area in Willow River area STAFF REPORT NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

BY AILENE CROUP NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

A pilot trash collection program in Willow River was presented to Pine County Board by Assessor/Recorder/Solid Waste Zoning Administrator Kelly Schroeder at the Committee of the Whole meeting last Tuesday. The Willow River area needs more options, she told the board, and it wouldn’t take any business away from the private haulers. They would contract with haulers to provide rolloffs. The proposed collection site would be located next to the Willow River highway garage with an employee tending the site and taking fees from customers. It would be open two to three days per week. Recycling sheds would remain open around the clock. A fee of $6 would be charged for a 32 gallon to 55 gallon container. A pickup load would be $36. Demolition debris, electronics and tires would be accepted and a recycling fee would be charged. No cash will be accepted, checks only. Punch cards may be sold at local convenience stores, according to the proposal. One punch per large trash can disposal. The goal is to have the fees cover staffing the site and advertising costs. County Land and Resource Manager Caleb Anderson said the pilot program would be on a six-month trial basis. The city of Willow River is very concerned about unattended trash drop offs creating a blight problem, he said.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

The trash collection site would be located next to the county’s garage in Willow River.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) permit states that the trash collection area must be secured from the public. The proposal states that fencing the county’s public works property in Willow River was estimated to cost $15,000 to $20,000. A fully enclosed, locked rolloff, which the county is proposing, will meet MPCA regulations. Cameras are also being researched for added security. Commissioner John Mikrot Jr. said, “If you can work it out with the city, they have a part time employee now.” “It seems like having someone from that community would be a benefit,” Anderson said. The county’s operational cost for six months is estimated to be about $11,950 which includes one part time staff at 14

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hours per week or 400 hours total, at $12 per hour. Commissioner Steve Chaffee asked how Schroeder intended to fund the Willow River Canister Transfer Station. “There’s about $15,000 remaining in solid waste (fund) that is slated for repairs and upkeep to current equipment and site,” Schroeder said. Commissioner Steve Hallan noted that if the county’s goal is to keep trash out of the ditches, it might be “missing the boat.” He said the cost just to drive through the gate of the transfer station north of Pine City is $15. County Administrator David Minke said he would have a resolution for the program prepared for the next meeting.

The Pine County Sheriff’s Office reports that a Level 3 Predatory Offender has moved into the Pine City area. Noe Contreras, 58, moved to an address on Sunnyside Drive in rural Pine City on March 5. A community notification meeting will be held on Thursday, March 9 at 6 p.m. at the Pine County Courthouse Boardroom at 635 Northridge Drive NW, Pine City, MN 55063. Contreras is considered a Level 3 Predatory Offender. This is the highest level of sexual predator, and is based on Contreras’ previous acts and likelihood of reoffending. Contreras has a history of sexual contact with female victims, age 10 and adult. Contact included penetration. Contreras was known to the victims. Contreras was convicted of criminal sexual conduct in 2003 and registered as a predatory offender. In 2015 he was convicted again of knowingly violating the predatory offender registration requirements. Contreras has served the sentence imposed on him by the court and is not wanted by the police. He is described as Hispanic, 5’6” and 170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. At the March 9 community notification meeting, representatives from the Department of Corrections and the Pine County Sher-

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Noe Contreras moved into the rural Pine City area on March 5, according to the Pine County Sheriff’s Office.

iff’s Office will be available to provide residents with public safety information and address questions and concerns. The Pine County Sheriff’s Office is releasing this information pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 244.052. This statute authorizes law enforcement agencies to inform the public of a sexual or predatory offender’s release from prison or a secure treatment facility when the Pine County Sheriff’s Office believes that the release of information will enhance public safety and protection. Because of the nature of Contreras’ crimes he is required to register with law enforcement. The sheriff’s office pointed out that this notification is not intended to increase fear in the community. Law enforcement believes that an informed public is a safer public. The Pine County Sheriff’s Office may not direct where the offender does or does not reside, nor can the agency direct where he works or goes to school.

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The sheriff’s office fact sheet also notes that convicted sexual and predatory offenders have always been released to live in communities across Minnesota. It was not until the passage of the Registration Act that law enforcement had an ability to track movement of these offenders after their initial release and share information about many of these offenders with the public. The fact sheet also points out that threatening, harassing or intimidating a registered offender is unacceptable and such acts could be charged as a crime. Such abuses could potentially end the ability of law enforcement to provide these notifications. If community notification ends the only person who wins is the offender. Many of these offenders derive their power from the opportunity that secrecy provides.

& MARCH 9, 2017

Submit community events to editor@pinecitymn.com or online at www.pinecitymn.com

MARCH 9 WINDOW abuse support group A support group for domestic abuse survivors meets at Journey North Church - 840 Main St., Pine City, every other Thursday of each month from 6-7 p.m. The next meeting is Thursday, March 9. WINDOW seeks to organize additional groups in other local communities as well. Call 320-384-7113 for more information.

MARCH 10

tice with their iPhones, or sign up to paint an acrylic cardinal scene with Charlene Herrick. For cost, information or to register, call 320-629-4924 or visit www.pinecenter.org.

VFW St. Patrick’s Day bingo A VFW St. Patrick’s Day bingo and drawings, open to players of all ages, will take place at the Pine City VFW Post 4258 on Saturday, March 11 at 2 p.m. Proceeds benefit the VFW education scholarship and Pine City Cub Scout funds.

PCftA Gallery exhibit Pine Center for the Arts’ next gallery exhibit, set to open on Friday, March 10, will feature a solo art exhibit by local artist Kristin Webster entitled, “Awake, Arise and Spring forth: A Gathering of Painted Botanicals, Their Flowers and Fruit.” A gallery opening reception with refreshments will take place from 4-7 p.m. For more information contact PCftA by email at info@pinecenter.org or leave a message at 320-629-4924.

World History Club The World History Club for 5th and 6th graders will meet at the Pine City Library from 3-4:45 p.m. on Friday, March 10. Recommended supplies for the free club are a 2” three-ring binder, seven binder dividers with tabs and lined paper. For more information call Maya Phillips at 320-322-5101.

MARCH 11 Pig roast fundraiser beneﬁt for Chad Hopkins

A pig roast fundraiser benefit for Chad Hopkins, a father of four who recently underwent a serious spinal operation, will take place on Saturday, March 11, 3 p.m., at The Diesel Shop at 54319 Forest Blvd, Rush City 55032. Funds raised will help with medical bills and lost wages while Chad recovers. For questions or to RSVP, email jay@abbottcompanies.com.

MARCH 12 PFLAG Meeting The next meeting of the East Central Minnesota Parents, Friends and Families of Lesbians and Gays will be held Sunday, March 12, at 4:30 p.m. at Common Ground, the Cambridge United Methodist Church, at 404 North Cypress St., Cambridge. Anyone in need of support or answers on LGBT issues is encouraged to attend. Call 320-396-3128; 320-272-0069; or 763-552-0084 with any questions; or visit ecmnpflag.org.

p.m., the Pine County Genealogy Society will meet at the Pine County Historical Museum in Askov. The program will be a presentation on the 75th USS Arizona Reunion at Pearl Harbor in December 2016. Email lynquilt@msn.com with any questions.

MARCH 13 - 19

On Wednesday, March 15 there is adult open hockey at 9:15 p.m. at the Pine City Civic Center. Call 320-629-6995 for cost or more information, or visit www.pinecityciviccenter. weebly.com.

Adult open hockey SCVO March concerts The St. Croix Valley Orchestra March concerts will feature David Tubergen, violin, playing Fritz Kreisler’s Praeludium and Allegro. Other works include Tschaikowsky’s Mozartiana Suite No. 4, Chabrier’s Marche Joyeuse, Highlights from Wicked, and more. Performances will take place Monday, March 13, 7 p.m., at Point Pleasant Heights, Chisago City; Saturday, March 18, 7 p.m., at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Almelund; Sunday, March 19, 3 p.m., at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Amery, Wisconsin. All performances are open to the public with a free will donation. For more information visit www.scvorchestra. org, or facebook.com/scvo2.

Board game club at the library Kids of all ages (younger kids should have a grown up with them) are invited to the Pine City Library from 3-5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15 for a new board game club. Bring a favorite board game (no electronic games) and a friend and a snack for a fun afternoon. Email DanaVPhillips@hotmail.com or call 763-234-7172 with any questions.

MARCH 18 BACC St. Patrick’s Day dance

A St. Croix Valley logging program will be presented by Steve Marudas on Sunday, March 12 at 2 p.m. at the Pine County History Museum in Askov. Coffee and refreshments will be served. Admission is by free will donation. Visit www.pinecountyhistorymuseum.org for more information or call 320838-1607.

The Braham Area Community/Events Center is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day dance on Saturday, March 18 from 5 - 9 p.m. There will be a meal, cash bar and music by Ed Pangerl & Friends. Families are welcome; children under 10 are free. For more information visit brahamcenter.org or call 320-3963177.

Open skating and hockey On Sunday, March 12 there is open skating at 5:15 p.m. at the Pine City Civic Center, followed by youth open hockey at 6:15 p.m. and adult open hockey at 7:30 p.m. Call 320-629-6995 for cost or more information, or visit www.pinecityciviccenter. weebly.com.

MARCH 13

‘Ole and Lena win a cruise’

Buds n’ Blooms season kick-off Come help Buds n’ Blooms Garden Club kick off the new season on Monday, March 13, 6:30 p.m., in the Pine City Library community room. Master Gardener Diana Rankin will be speaking on the topic of, “Growing Vegetable and Other Edibles in Containers.” The schedule of events for the season will be passed out and treats served. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact Barb Videen at blvideen@gmail.com.

The public is invited to Super Art Saturday classes at Pine Center for the Arts, 265 5th St. SE, Pine City, on Saturday, March 11. At 10 a.m., learn tips and tricks of iPhone/iPad photography with Dee Kotaska, or learn the basics of needle-felting and create a sunflower with Teresa Kukowski. At 1 p.m. Dee Kotaska will lead a class around Pine City to get hands-on prac-

trauma on the brain, presented by Mary Peltz of Princeton. Music guests will be a Hinckley ensemble, “Fred Lyon and the Ladies.” Guest speaker will be Mary Roelofs of Princeton. Her topic is “No Matter What.” Reservations may be made by calling 320-384-6413 or 320-245-2783; walk-ins are also welcome.

Logging presentation at Museum

On Saturday, March 11 the Pine City Arts Council invites the public to see the play, “Ole and Lena win a cruise,” 7 p.m., at the Pine City High School auditorium. Tickets available at the Flower Box, Cabin Coffees, Pine City Community Ed, and at the door. Visit the PCAC Facebook page for more information.

Super Art Saturday at PCftA

PINE CITY PIONEER

Women’s Christian Connection The Women’s Christian Connection will meet on Monday, March 13, 7 p.m., in Tobies’ Big Kettle Room in Hinckley. All ladies are cordially invited to attend this dessert luncheon. The special feature will be “Mind Matters,” the impact of

MARCH 14 Rep. Nolan mobile office Members of U.S. Congressman Rick Nolan’s (MN-8) staff will be available to meet with constituents during a “Congress Comes to You” meeting on Tuesday, March 14 at the Grasston Senior Dining Site at 11 a.m. For additional dates/locations visit http://nolan.house.gov/ congress-comes-to-you-schedule.

Family Law Clinic The Refuge Network is sponsoring a free, open to the public, Family Law Clinic on Tuesday, March 14, 6 p.m., at Trinity Lutheran Church in North Branch (38460 Lincoln Trail, North Branch, MN 55056). Attendees will learn the basics on Dissolutions and Custody, receive helpful materials, and have questions answered by an attorney. There may be an opportunity for two individuals to meet with an attorney individually after the main presentation. For further information visit www. therefugenetwork.org or call 651-257-2890.

Parenting Plus support group All grandparents/kinship caregivers raising grandchildren/relatives’ children are invited to a Parenting Plus support group meeting on Tuesday, March 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Pine City Elementary Community room #110. Call 612-310-0618 or 320-629-3013 with any questions.

MARCH 15 Pine County Genealogy Society

Thunderin’ Toms Banquet The Pine County Thunderin’ Toms Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation, (NWTF), annual banquet will be held on Saturday, March 18 at the Hinckley Community Center. Social hour begins at 4 p.m. There will be over 25 guns and other prizes. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. For reservations call Warren Dufresne at 320-629-7485 or Brad Klepsa at 651-246-5201 or download a registration form at www.pcthunderintoms.weebly. com.

MARCH 18 & 19 Appliqué beading workshop at Mille Lacs Learn techniques of appliqué beading and make an appliqué beaded coin purse to take home in a two-day workshop at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post on March 18 and 19. The classes take place Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch and refreshments will be provided. Discounted hotel rooms at Grand Casino Mille Lacs are available on Saturday night for workshop participants. Reservations are required; call 320532-3632.

MEETINGS THURSDAY 3/9 TOPS-Take Off Pounds Sensibly: Pine City Library Community Room, 4:30-5:30 p.m. NAMI peer support: Cambridge Medical Ctr., 6:30 p.m. Teen AA/NA: 6:30 p.m., Teen Focus Center, Rush City Pine City VFW Auxiliary: Pine City VFW Post #4258, 6:30 p.m. SUNDAY 3/12 AA (Big Book study): Evangelical Free Church, 7 p.m. Pine City Civic Center Board: Pine City ALC building, 8 p.m. MONDAY 3/13 Celebrate Recovery: Pine City, Journey North Church, 6 p.m. Pine City School Board: PCHS district office, 6:30 p.m. AA: 7:30 p.m., Our Redeemer Lutheran Church TUESDAY 3/14 American Legion & Auxiliary: Pine City American Legion, 7 p.m. Pine County Republicans: Tobies, Hinckley, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY 3/15 Woodcarving club: Askov, 9 a.m. Pine Co. History Museum Al-Anon: 725 2nd Ave. SW, Pine City, 12 p.m., 612-387-6094, David Focus on Ability: 1:30 p.m., Chisago Co. Snr. Ctr., North Branch Pine City Toastmasters: 7 p.m., Pine City VFW Hall AA: 8 p.m., Rock Creek Community Center

SENIOR DINING March 13 - 17 Monday: Mushroom/onion pork chop, baked potato with sour cream, squash, dinner roll, lemon chiffon Tuesday: Shepard’s pie, crunchy romaine salad, wheat bread, apple upside down cake Wednesday: Liver & onions or hamburger patty with gravy, whipped potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables, wheat bread, pumpkin bar Thursday: Corned beef and cabbage, Irish potatoes, rye bread, leprechaun poke cake Friday: Baked potato with broccoli and cheese, lettuce salad, breadstick, cowboy cookie Cost is $4.00 for people over 60 and $7.50 for under 60. No preregistration needed, except for special events. Call the Pine City Senior Center at 320-629-3024 between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Pine City Pioneer does not guarantee publication of community events. Space limits the size and number of articles. Out & About deadline is 3 p.m. Monday. If your information must be published, consider placing an ad.

On Wednesday, March 15, 1

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OPINION

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

MARCH 9, 2017

Volunteers serve Pine County Pine County relies on volunteers to provide many services. Volunteer activities vary from one-time events to long-term commitments on boards or committees. Some of the formal volunteer appointments to boards and committees include: • Planning Commission. Seven members are appointed for staggered four-year terms. These members review development requests under the county subdivision and platting ordinance. The members meet as needed, typically four to eight times per year. • Board of Adjustment. The Board of Adjustment is composed of five members appointed by the Chair of the County Board. Members review and render decisions on matters such as variance requests and zoning appeals and interpretations. Typically the board meets four to six times per year. • Housing and Redevelopment Authority. The HRA is comprised of five members appointed for five-year terms. The HRA owns and manages two multi-housing units in Pine County. The housing is geared to income-qualified senior citizens. The HRA board meets monthly. • East Central Regional Library District. Pine County is a member of the East Central Regional Library District. This library district serves Pine and five additional counties. In addition to a commissioner representative, each county appoints two citizen members. The library board meets monthly. • East Central Regional Development Commission. The East Central Regional Development Commission manages regional initiatives focused on transportation and economic development in the five-county region. The board of directors includes elected officials and a citizen member from each county. In addition to these formal boards, there are many individual volunteers who provide indispensable services to county residents. Many people volunteer their time in the Veteran Services office providing transportation, assisting in the office, or donating needed items. The county also uses volunteer drivers to take people to and from medical appointments. There are typically about 40 of these rides given each month. Many people volunteer their time to support criminal justice and public safety related projects. The sheriff’s office has about 15 members of the sheriff’s reserve. Many area churches support ministry programs in the county jail, along with people who volunteer to assist with educational programs.

Correction Last week’s story “Veteran and whistleblower, Amie (Dahl) Muller leaves behind a legacy of service” stated that Muller had three daughters. This was incorrect. Muller had two daughters and a son: Caidyn Krause, EmmyLu and Jace.

Approach the good news of the budget surplus with caution The recent release of the February forecast shows Minnesota is doing well, and will have an estimated surplus of $1.65 billion in 2018-19. I’m very proud of the hard work done over the past five years. Minnesota has overcome significant budget deficits and now has a surplus of $1.65 billion, a $250 million increase from the November State forecast. However, while Senator the current finanTony cial outlook is optimistic, there is Lourey still uncertainty that could negatively impact the financial standing of our state. Uncertainty in Washington and federal policy means we must remain cautious and be fiscally responsible. Federal trade policy changes could have serious impacts on growth, and any changes in healthcare spending could have significant repercussions for the state. Estimates of one Washington

‘While the economy is stable now, the legislature must make responsible investments to ensure Minnesota maintains its economic health in the future.’ proposal on health care indicates that Minnesota will lose $5 billion in federal funding by 2021, creating a massive hole in the state budget. While the economy is stable now, the legislature must make responsible investments to ensure Minnesota maintains its economic health in the future. Now is the time to create a budget that will work for all Minnesotans. This means not only balanced investments in policies that support Minnesotans, but also rejecting drastic, unsustainable spending programs. In the Senate Taxes Committee alone, there has been

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Attempt to publish the news as fairly and impartially as possible. Editorial comments will be restricted to this page, or when positioned elsewhere, be clearly identified. All sides of controversial issues will be published within the capabilities of the newspaper. Letters to the Editor will be 500 words or less. All letters are subject to editing for grammar and clarity and must contain the undersigned’s full name and their address. As a rule, letter writers should live, work or have another connection to The Pine City Pioneer’s coverage area. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues

more than $3 billion proposed in new spending - more than twice our surplus. Other proposals are looking to raid our budget reserve for non-emergency projects, potentially jeopardizing our recently restored credit score and Minnesota’s long-term fiscal health. We cannot sacrifice our hard-won economic stability for legislators’ pet projects. I want to focus on passing a budget that protects the state’s reserve in this time of uncertainty and focuses on legislation that improves quality of life for people across the state, such as a comprehensive transportation package, education investments, a sensible tax bill, and a jobs bill that will support all Minnesotans. Our focus must be on providing opportunity for ordinary Minnesotans who continue to be squeezed by an economy that has not been working for everyone. As in past sessions, I will continue to focus on strengthening the state through responsible spending. In the upcoming weeks, I look forward to working on legislation that is both fiscally responsible and beneficial to all Minnesotans.

are not guaranteed publication. Staff reserves the right to refrain from printing a letter. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Letters may be emailed to: editor@pinecitymn.com no later than 5 p.m. Monday the week of publication. The Pioneer welcomes readers’ suggestions for news stories as well as their comments on stories that have been printed. News releases should be typed and include appropriate contact information. They will be printed as space permits in the first issue possible. There are no guarantees that news releases will run.

OPINON

MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Shame on you To the Editor: My name is Scott Cummings, lifelong resident and business owner for over 35 years. After reading yesterday’s paper and reading the front page I feel it prudent and necessary to say ... shame on you. For having the attitude against Paul Miller and then against his brother Tom you should be asking for their forgiveness. I have known the family all my life. Anybody who has ever served on the fire department has been of the highest regard and character. The decisions made on a daily basis to fight with their very lives to save the lives of others require character and devotion. Now you sit there judging them of a potential of conflict of interest? The laws for conflict of interest were created because someone acted contrary to the citizens they serve and acted to serve themselves. We live in a small town and have a hard time finding someone who has such a life that there is no talk about our involvement on various boards and clubs. I served enough to see the changes where we could not give to Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and other civic groups. I served long enough to see public prayer erased publicly and the mention of God sneered at. Maybe it’s just me? I doubt it. Am I one of the few to be vocal? Probably. I will say this publicly to the Miller family – don’t let this stop you from serving as you always have, like your mom and dad. Forgive them because they do not know what they do. To the members of the Pine City Fire Department active

and retired, thank you. To the residents and business owners of Pine City, get behind these good people and honor them. Stick up for the current members of the city council, planning commission and the various committees. There are few people who have the courage and dedication to take the abuse and frustration necessary to navigate laws national, state and local. This is one of the reasons that business owners stay away. It is hard and thankless serving people at any level. Lastly, in honor of all councilmen before us, thank you. God forgive us for our shortsightedness. Scott Cummings Pine City

bottom line is if it’s the easiest option, with ticket expense even comparable to personal transportation, it will likely be chosen over that personal transportation. With example of the OTS (overhead train system), we can increase or decrease the number of seats, even on an hour by hour basis. It gives the ability to have an express train passing other train cars while they are picking up passengers. Travel is not going away anytime soon. We are still putting money into Interstate 35 and it will need to continue to expand if we don’t come up with other solutions. Thomas Martini Pine City

Train needs to serve commuters

Trump should follow Eisenhower’s example

To the Editor: Dick, thank you for your response [in the March 2, 2017, Pioneer] and in some areas we would be in agreement. My take is the government should administer those things that people are unable to do on their own. Some things the government should leave to private individuals or businesses. Public transit – including roads, bridges, air travel, and yes, trains – should at least be overseen by government bodies. For me to back a train it has to directly serve our commuting population, it should be a faster than an automobile solution, it needs to be consistent, and serve all of the population. I assure you, if the train fills these basic needs it will be ridden by many and often. I have ridden on trains in California and England. The

To the Editor: I have to think that President Dwight D. Eisenhower was the very best Republican president and probably by far the most intelligent Republican president during my life time. I am very sure he would not be in favor of Trump wanting to build up our military. President Eisenhower warned the people of the USA many years ago about the build up by the military complex; President Eisenhower urged his successors to strike a balance between a strong national defense and diplomacy. I do not think Trump has any idea what diplomacy even is. Eisenhower cautioned that the federal government’s collaboration with an alliance of military and industrial leaders, though necessary, was vulnerable to abuse of power. Ike then counseled American

citizens to be vigilant in monitoring the military-industrial complex. I have to think all this president is trying to do is make his billionaire friends richer than they already are by ripping off the people of America and the US government with all the rip offs that will be included in the next four years. President Eisenhower was also concerned about the environment. Trump is proving he could care less. All the while our public school children will be cheated out of a good education and the environment will be sacrificed. They could care less about the damage they are doing to this country by putting us backwards maybe 100 years or more. These billionaires are proving to be very short sighted and we always knew they were very greedy.

do stream trout eat Q: What during the winter? Several members of the A: midge family are only present as adults in the win-

ter, and they produce special antifreeze molecules within their bodies to tolerate frigid temperatures once they emerge from the stream. The most abundant of these midge species in southeastern Minnesota is Diamesa mendotae, which resembles a mosquito in both size and body shape. It is common to see swarms of them crawling on streamside snow banks, and a single trout may consume several hundred midges on a cold winter day. Brachycentrus caddisflies also make up a significant portion of winter trout diets. Caddisfly larvae, often green or brown in color, detach from rocks and are picked off by trout as they drift through the water column. Aquatic amphipods, commonly known as scuds or freshwater shrimp, are another important winter food source for trout, especially in streams with abundant aquatic vegetation. Interestingly, trout have been known to eat frogs that hibernate in many Minnesota streams. Larger trout also eat plenty of fish such as minnow, sculpin and even other trout. Mice and shrews are on the menu as well, so anglers would be wise to experiment with different size offerings.

Charlie Rike Pine City

The snowbirds return To the Editor: The weather is getting warmer. The snow has disappeared and we have had rain. Many of the homes in our area now are showing occupancy. Their owners have returned. Birds are also more prevalent. Bluebirds and red-winged blackbirds are back in their nests. Sandhill cranes can be heard, I even have heard a robin. The snowbirds have returned so this must mean that winter is in the past. Prepare for warmer weather.

~ Vaughn Snook, Lanesboro assistant area fisheries supervisor and Will French, DNR fisheries specialist

Dale Kuzel Pine City

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YEARS AGO

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com

DNR warns of thin ice as ATV sinks in 1992 10 Years Ago, 2007 Jorie Jewell of Pine City used horsepower to play in the snow last week. Over 16 inches fell on March 2 and 3, closing the schools, clogging the roads and forcing many people to stay home from work. Although the snow was deep, Jewell rode her horse through it. The snow came just three days after residents dug out from a 12-inch dumping on Feb. 24-25. Fifty Pine City High School seniors and their chaperones will fly to Florida on Tuesday, March 20 for their class trip. Jeffrey Teich, a 1975 graduate of Pine City High, was one of three New Mexico State University faculty memYears bers awarded a Fulbright Scholar grant during the 2006-2007 academic Ago year to teach or conduct research in foreign countries. Donna Student Achievers are third grader Monica Olson, daughter of Steven and Heath Marcia Olson, and ninth grader Jessica Lange, daughter of Heidi Clemens. Both girls stand out in their classes and are an example to their classmates. Athletes of the Week in hockey are Haakon Hansen, Colton Warner and Terry Kraft. These guys have all worked hard this season. Colton and Haakon are both sophomores who have contributed to much of our success. As a junior, Terry has been in every situation possible and always done an excellent job. Congratulations to these Athletes of the Week on their awesome 20-6 season as Dragon hockey players. Local piano teachers, students and music lovers gathered on March 4 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

for the Winterfest Ensemble program. The program was presented by the students of Lois Bengtson, Jennifer Krinke, Brad Mariska, Adrienne Roubinek and Julie Samuelson. The event highlighted duets, with 30 shared musicians including piano, vocal and other instruments. Abby Cummings and Drew Gerold, students of Julie Samuelson, teamed up to play “Little Tin Soldier.”

25 Years Ago, 1992 A fish crib made of logs rests at the bottom of Cross Lake in front of the 3M plant. It was put there by members of the Snake River Valley Conservation Club. The club received permission from the Department of Natural Resources to build and sink a crib which provides spawning habitat for minnows. They in turn attract larger fish to the area. Pictured were Don Mohr, Gary Bue, Dale Metcalf, Martin Rike, Curt Rike, Harold Kick, Steve Saumer, Delford Chapin, Hank Sommer, Russell Anderson and Waldo Kick, who engineered the crib and provided the materials. Log cribs are common in Wisconsin lakes, but are not allowed in Minnesota except by special permit from the DNR. A two vehicle accident on March 8 claimed the lives of two young Pine County women. The accident happened at 3 a.m. four-and-one-half miles north of Hinckley on Highway 61. Kristine Margaret Basset, 19, Hinckley, and Joanne Joy Armendariz, 17, of Finlayson, were killed in the crash. Basset was driving south and Armendariz north at the time of the accident. A three-wheel ATV and its rider broke through the ice on the Snake River in Pine City on March 9, just before 5 p.m. The male juvenile who was riding the ATV was able to get out of the water and walk across the ice to shore. He was taken to Rush City Hospital for

a checkup and released. County and state spring weight restrictions are in effect on local roads. Tickets go on sale for the Pine City Heritage Players production of “Kiss Me Kate.” Directed by Tom Larson, the musical features John Peters in the role of Fred/Petruchio and LeAnn Johnson as Lilli/Katherine. Mike Welch plays Bill/Lucentio and Mary Ellen Sauser Lois/Bianca. Former Pine City resident Tanya (Nat) Henderson recently attended a three-day symposium in Massachusetts focusing on world hunger. She is pursuing a career as a veterinarian and is a pre-veterinary science student at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities campus. An advertisement from the Village Inn invited the public to enjoy a corned beef and cabbage dinner on St. Patrick’s Day. They also served beef stew and green beer all day.

50 Years Ago, 1967

Mrs. Wilma Ardner was guest of honor at a retirement party as she concluded 28 years of employment with Northwestern Bell. Main speaker at the annual GOP convention held at Hinckley was David Durenberger, executive secretary to Gov. LeVander. Mr. and Mrs. Roy Sward are the happy grandparents of a baby boy born to Mr. and Mrs. Harold Wolken (Virgene Sward) of Robbinsdale. Mrs. Roy Sward is the daughter of the late James C. Ruby and this is the first boy to be born in the Ruby family for 47 years. The Swards have six granddaughters. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. John Valvoda Jr. of Pine City on the birth of their daughter, Valerie Susan on March 14.

75 Years Ago, 1942

MANAGING YOUR TAX REFUND you money on check-cashing fees. While traditional savings or checking accounts may offer nominal interest rates, longer-term certiﬁcate of deposits or money market accounts may yield more interest. Talk to an investment specialist. Your income tax refund may be just what you need to start investing. A ﬁnancial planner or stock broker can guide you through potential investments that carry the right portfolio and level of risk for your needs. With the right investment, you can turn your refund into a substantial amount of money over the course of several years.

Income tax season is a happy time for many people. Those who anticipate a considerable refund on their taxes look forward to having extra money; some individuals even plan to ﬁnance big-ticket purchases entirely with their tax refunds. You can choose to invest your money, or decide that now is a good time to do things you normally would not do.

Money Management Pay off high-interest loans. When addressing your ﬁnances, take inventory of any high-interest loans, including credit card bills. It will save you more money in the long run to pay off this type of debt as soon as possible. Investigate savings programs. Opening up an account with a credit union or bank will immediately save

Fun Ways to Spend Your Refund Go shopping. Many retailers offer promotions each year

during tax return season. Buy a car or get a new wardrobe, summer is just around the corner. Pamper yourself. Tax time is stressful for many of us. Treat yourself to a massage or facial or get your hair done. A day at the spa can do wonders for stress. Home Improvements. A tax refund can be a great time for taking care of those ﬁxes around the house you’ve been putting off and allow you to show off your home repair skills. Take a trip. If there’s a vacation that you’ve been putting off, a tax refund may be the excuse you need to book that travel. Donate to charity. A tax refund is a great chance to support charitable causes. Donating some or all of the refund to a local nonproﬁt can

have a positive impact on your hometown. This also has the beneﬁt of reducing your future tax burden, as you can use the money donated as a write-off on your next return. Pay it forward. Secretly pay someone else’s dinner bill at a local restaurant or fast food place. Buy a gift card and slip it under the door of a neighbor who you know is going through hard times. When buying your coffee at a coffee shop, buy one for the next person in line. Small acts of kindness can go a long way and it doesn’t take much to make someone’s day unexpectedly bright.

The firemen were called to the home of Dr. and Mrs. George T. Olson last Friday morning when a hot water coil in the furnace let go and steamed things up in general about the place before the water could be shut off. The escaping water quenched the furnace fire and messed things up to some extent before help arrived. Damage was nominal. Jos. Holetz and George Herman, seven-year-olds in the first grade in school, were guests of honor at a joint birthday party last Thursday afternoon just before school adjourned for the day. The youngsters had cake and ice cream, apples and candies and a lot of fun, too, in this affair arranged by the mothers of the two lads. LAKESIDE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL: Mrs. Alex Norman of Rt. 1, Grasston, is the mother of a boy, born in the hospital Tuesday evening, March 3.

100 Years Ago, 1917 This issue is missing from our files.

Ask a Trooper BY SGT. NEIL DICKENSON MINNESOTA STATE PATROL

Recently I have noticed quite a few semi-trucks on Q: the freeway with snow and ice blowing off the top of the trailers, sometimes in sheets. I can only imagine

what would happen if a sheet came off and struck an unsuspecting vehicle while traveling on the roadway. Is there a requirement to remove the snow/ice prior to traveling with the trailer?

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any leaking, blowing, shifting or dropping. Ice or any type of debris that comes off a vehicle could be considered an unsecured load. Drivers should be concerned about civil liability if they fail to take reasonable steps to remove snow and ice that result in property damage or injuries from a crash. When traveling behind a vehicle with an unsecure load or ice/snow falling from it, give yourself plenty of room behind the vehicle to avoid any obstacles that may fall off and strike your vehicle. If possible, go around or pass the vehicle when it is safe to do so. If your vehicle is damaged and/or crashes as a result from falling debris, try to get a license plate number and report it to law enforcement and your insurance company. Please take the time to remove all snow, ice and items that may come off your vehicle so it does not become a hazardous situation on the roadway. Also, clear all frost, snow and ice from the windows so the driver is able to see from all angles. Send questions to Sgt. Neil Dickenson – Minnesota State Patrol at 1131 Mesaba Ave., Duluth, MN 55811 or neil.dickenson@state.mn.us.

MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

The mission of the Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce is to promote economic development and business in the area.

CHAMBER CHAT facebook.com/pinecitychamber

www.pinecitychamber.com

NEW BUSINESS VISIT: DUST BUSTERS FURNACE & DUCT CLEANING, INC. Dust Busters offers both residential and commercial duct cleaning services in Central Minnesota. Other cleaning service offerings include: chimney, air conditioner units, dryer and dryer vent, and refrigerator. Dust Busters specializes in furnace and duct cleaning and has provided service for thousands of homes and businesses in Minnesota over the last 25 years. The Pine City area is now served by local resident, Jeremiah Mohr, whose service is top notch. Jeremiah prides himself on quality work and providing the best customer service possible. Contact him for a free quote. Website: www.dustbustersusa.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/DustBustersUSA Phone: 1-866-869-5088 or 320-760-8555

NEW BUSINESS VISIT: 3RD & MAIN Located at the corner of Third Avenue & Main Street along Old Hwy 61 is Pine City’s newest retail location providing a beautiful array of home décor and gifts. The store is open Monday – Saturday from 10 AM – 6 PM with hopes of extended hours during the summer months. Local owner, Cyndy Simonson, has a great eye for detail at affordable prices.Shoppers will find jewelry, clothing, wall art, candles, pillows and other home decorating items. Inventory changes weekly and Cyndy is always looking for new ideas for items to stock. Stop by for a visit! Location: 545 3rd Ave SE, Pine City • Phone: 763-528-0500 Facebook: Search for 3rd & Main

JOIN REMIND FOR TEXT ALERTS Want to stay up-to-date on upcoming meetings and networking events for the Chamber, but don’t always get those important dates added to your calendar? The Chamber is now using a Group Messaging app called REMIND to help our members stay informed. You can download the app to your phone or simply sign-up by text to receive reminders. Text this number: 81010 With this message: @chamberpc Need help? Drop by the office or call the Chamber for assistance at 320-322-4040.

IS YOUR BUSINESS ON THE MAP? Last summer the Pine City Chamber of Commerce and the Pine County Office of Economic Development were awarded a grant from the Greater Pine Area Endowment to provide one-to-one training and assistance for the business community to get listed with Google Maps. Since that time we’ve been able to work with a number of businesses to create, claim, verify & improve the listings for 32 locations in Pine City. There is still a lot of work to do on this project and we’d like to invite more businesses to take part in this free opportunity. If you’d like more information, or wish to schedule your appointment, please call Becky at 320-322-4040. This training is not limited to Chamber Members, all businesses located with ISD 578 boundaries can take part.

OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

Julie Samuelson, President (Hands for Pine City) Joe Dvorak,Vice-President (FirstLight Health System) Corey Berube, Director (Frandsen Bank & Trust) Frank Christopherson, Director (US Bank) Todd Cummings, Director (Individual Member) Wayne Gilman, Past President (Individual Member) Sara Helseth, Director (MINPACK, Inc.) Bonnie Menigo, Director (Individual Member) Joshua Miron, Director (WCMP Radio)

Robert Musgrove, Director (Pine County Economic Development Office) Butch Nicoll, Director (Nicoll’s Café) Julie Stevens, Director (Stearns Bank) Lara Smetana, Director (Voyageur Bottle Shop) Jill Tomczyk (Student Director, PCHS) Alicia Freeman (Student Director, Ambassador) Michael Powell (Student Director, PTCC)

NEXT MEETING: APRIL 4 AT NOON 320-322-4040

Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce 315 Main Street South, Pine City MN 55063 Regular Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 2:30 pm www.pinecitychamber.com www.facebook.com/pinecitychamber info@pinecitychamber.com

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

NEWSLINE Sunday liquor sales legal starting July 2

On March 7, Governor Mark Dayton signed a bipartisan bill to give liquor stores in Minnesota the option to open on Sundays beginning on July 2. The bill passed with bipartisan support in the Minnesota House (88-39) and Minnesota Senate (38-28). “This new law reflects the desires of most people in Minnesota, who have made it clear to their legislators that they want to have this additional option,” said Dayton. Recent polls have shown that two-thirds of Minnesotans support giving liquor stores the option to open on Sundays. Individual liquor stores will still be able to decide when they would like to operate, and local governments retain the ability to set liquor laws that make sense for their unique local economies and needs. The new law was discussed at the March 1 Pine City Council meeting, with Voyageur Liquor Store Manager Lara Smetana indicating that she would be open to expanding staff hours in order to be open on Sundays in Pine City.

IMAGE Art Show entries due April 3

PHOTOS BY JEFF ESPESETH AND KELLY OSTERDYK

Nature’s beauty revealed in journey down icy Snake Experienced outdoorsmen Jeff Espeseth (pictured above) and Kelly Osterdyk took a canoe trip down the lower Snake River on Saturday, March 4, exploring the area between the Cross Lake Dam and the mouth of the St. Croix River. With the water and air temperatures in the 30s, the men encountered ducks, geese and swans returning from the south and discovered interesting ice formations. The above picture shows the massive slabs of ice left along the shore after ice out, while the photo on the left shows what happened after the water level dropped, leaving behind ﬁnger-like icicles hovering above the waterline.

Bald eagles make way back to Minnesota MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

Bald eagles are migrating back to Minnesota and may be seen in large numbers across parts of the state over the next few weeks, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The spring eagle migration usually coincides with ice-out. A warm February melted much of the snow cover, and ice is breaking up along the rivers, said DNR regional Nongame Wildlife specialist Lisa Gelvin-Innvaer. “Because of that, this year’s migration appears to be a couple weeks earlier, so folks in

southern Minnesota will be seeing eagles soon, even with the last remnants of winter,” she said. “We’re already seeing small groups of eagles along the Minnesota River.” Only two states, Florida and Alaska, have greater nesting populations of bald eagles than Minnesota. In 2005, researchers estimated there are more than 1,300 active nests in Minnesota. Fall migration typically occurs as lakes and rivers freeze over, since most eagles prefer a diet of fish. Bald eagle wintering grounds ideally contain open water, ample food, limited human disturbance and protected roosting sites. As

their population increases, however, some eagles have become tolerant of some disturbance, particularly traffic, choosing to nest near busy highways or in very urban habitats. To supplement their diets in winter, eagles also prey on mammals and other birds, and will often be seen on roadsides eating carrion. Not all bald eagles migrate southward in the fall, Gelvin-Innvaer said. In many areas in Minnesota, it’s common for some eagle pairs to stay the winter, especially during milder winters and wherever there is open water.

The 2017 IMAGE Art Show will be held at the East Central Regional Arts Council office and gallery located in downtown Braham. The Call for Entry form for artists is available online now and is due by April 3. This year’s show will be held April 2228, with an opening reception on Saturday, April 22 from 5-8 p.m. The show is open to the public. IMAGE is an annual judged art show for visual artists residing in Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine counties. There is no fee to enter or attend. Entry forms are due no later than 11:55 p.m. on Monday, April 3. Artists may only enter one work of art. To access the 2017 IMAGE Art Show entry form, go to: http://tinyurl.com/image2017 For assistance or more information, call 320-3962337 extension 1, email info@ecrac.org, or visit www.ecrac.org/news/image-art-show-2017

First fatal motorcycle crash of 2017

A motorcyclist died in Redwood County on Sunday, March 5 in the first fatal motorcycle crash of the season. The Redwood County Sheriff’s Office says the crash happened around 6 p.m. on the 400 block of Central Street in Sandborn. A 60-year-old man was negotiating a curve when he crashed into the ditch. The rider was not wearing a helmet, and alcohol is a factor, according to authorities. This is the second earliest motorcycle fatality ever in Minnesota. The first motorcycle fatality last season happened March 7. Motorcyclists have been taking advantage of early spring weather off and on for a few weeks. Riders need to take extra caution early in the season because: • There is sand and gravel at intersections and turns. • Motorists still aren’t used to seeing motorcyclists out on the road. • Snow run-off refreezes at night, which could be an issue later this week with snow and colder overnight temperatures in the forecast. Public Safety officials urge riders to wear full, brightly-colored protective gear, including a DOT-approved helmet, travel at safe speeds and sign up for a training course this season. Motorists should watch carefully for motorcycles in traffic, always look twice before turning or changing lanes and give riders room to ride.

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MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

Family Pathways merged with the Pine Community Food Shelf in June of 2016. The two shared the mission of offering people ďŹ&#x201A;exible services that met their basic food needs while in crisis. It has proven to be a great ďŹ t. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in taking a tour of the building or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, go to FamilyPathways.org or just stop in. March is the Minnesota Food Share campaign sponsored by the Minnesota Council of Churches. A portion of all donations made to the Pine Community Food Shelf in the month of March will be matched. This tradition is now 34 years old. The match is based on both how much money AND food is collected. Your money stays right here in the Pine Community. We need you. Last year, Family Pathways Pine Community Food Shelf distributed 203,000 pounds of food to 2,798 households feeding 6,540 people. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a scary thing to not know where your next meal is coming from. Your support provides this nutritious food in the most nonjudgmental and respectful way. The Pine Community is amazing and we are fortunate to have tremendous food donations through your help. Family Pathways membership with Second Harvest Heartland Food Bank means we can turn your ďŹ nancial donations into much more food than you may have thought possible. You make this work happen. We are blessed to have two staff people and 40 volunteers who work every week. There is even a group of substitutes ready to step in when needed. Family Pathways is governed by a Board of Directors and a prior board member from the Pine Community Food Shelf now sits on this board. Everyone is working to make sure that the needs of Pine City and the surrounding areas are well represented and needs are being met.

Hours have increased with the merger. Monday and Wednesday 9 AM to 5PM Tuesday 9 AM to NOON Thursday 11 AM to 7 PM Friday 9 AM to NOON

PINE COMMUNITY FOOD SHELF THANKS YOU! Thank you! You have made it possible for the Pine Community Food Shelf to distribute 203,000 pounds of food in 2016. Family Pathways sends a huge Thanks to all of you who made contributions. So many make sacriďŹ ces in order to help others. We are appreciative of your donations. You make this work happen.

DID YOU KNOW? Food shelves can stretch cash further than donations of food. Why? The food shelf has access to discount products and food bank programs that allow us to turn a $1 donation into $7 worth of food. Help us feed more Pine County families by donating cash to your local food shelf today. All Family Pathaways food shelf donations stay local. For more information visit www.FamilyPathways.org.

The food shelf uses â&#x20AC;&#x153;Client Shoppingâ&#x20AC;? which means a person gets to choose what they think their family needs and wants. This eliminates waste and increases the dignity of the experience. Nutritional Assistance Program for Seniors boxes continue to be distributed from the food shelf for older people. Bread and produce can be picked up every week on any day the food shelf is open. No more waiting for Friday! Family Pathways thanks all the local businesses, churches, civic organizations, schools and individuals that are helping to squash hunger in our communities. With every gift that is made, you make food available to the children and adults that need it. Words cannot describe how important that is.

To learn more, visit our website FamilyPathways.org Any time you would like to take a tour of our building or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer, stop in, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to show you around! Member FDIC

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MARCH 9, 2017

First time’s the charm

In Focus An educational series presented by FirstLight Health System

On his first time ice fishing on Cross Lake this past January, five-year-old Armand Gribauval caught a 24 inch pike on a tipup.

Nutrition 101 — Are You Really What You Eat? This FREE 4-part series on nutrition and its impact on health is being offered by FirstLight’s registered, licensed dieticians. PART 1 FOCUSES ON PROTEIN. What is it? Why do we need it? How much do we need? Plus, healthy choices and preparations.

Wednesday, March 15 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. FirstLight Health System 301 Highway 65 South, Mora, MN 55051 Save these dates to attend the entire series: May 17 – Grains | Aug 16 – Fruits & Vegetables | Oct 18 – Snacks & Beverages

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PHOTO PROVIDED

SINGING THE PRAISES Meet the people who work hard to make a diﬀerence in our community.

VIRGINIA JOHNSON JUST LOVES HER VOLUNTEER WORK BY MARGARET MARTY NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

Virginia (Delaney) Johnson was born in Lynch, Nebraska, the closest hospital to her parents’ home in South Dakota. They moved to Bruno, Minnesota when she was 4 and then to Pine City by 1945. Her father, Delbert Delaney, was a deputy sheriff in Pine County for 30 years; her mother a nurse in Cambridge. She graduated from Pine City High School and married Curt Johnson a year later. Because he was an Army career man for 20 years, her dream of traveling came true, living in Germany, France and several U.S. states, before coming back permanently to Pine City. Besides raising two sons, she worked for the Montgomery Ward catalog store and customer service at 3M, both in Pine City. Virginia’s face radiates when she talks about her involvement in the community and her church. She has donated time to the local food shelf for over 20 years, doing statistics, sorting and stocking shelves. She helps with the distribution of Toys for Tots during the holiday season. She has served as an election judge in Rock Creek for about 20 years. At Our Redeemer Church, she works at rummage sales, funerals, soup and sandwich lunches during Lent, and is active in circle groups and Bible studies. She also takes her turn in Altar Guild, which means keeping the candles lit, appropriate cloth colors and communion set-up. “My hobby is knitting,” she said. “I donate afghans to Window Crisis Center in Hinckley, and hats to newborn babies at Fairview, Wyoming.” One of her favorite involvements was with the Pine City Singers for 18 years, and for which she was managing coordinator for nine years. “We dressed in special costumes for various holidays, and being Irish, my specialty was doing the narration for St. Patrick’s Day performances,” she said, demonstrating the brogue. “I just love volunteer work,” Virginia said. “Just ask people or organizations if they need help. That’s the only way you’ll ﬁnd out. Asking doesn’t cost anything.”

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AND OUTDOORS MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER www.pinecitymn.com

Dragons ﬁnish postseason play with program record 23 wins BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

It’s been a phenomenal winter for the Dragons girls basketball team. The squad set a program record with 23 wins, and won its first postseason game since 2005. Although their season came to an end in the second round of the Section 6AA playoffs, a very bright outlook remains as the Dragons roster is loaded with underclassmen and had just one senior.

PINE CITY 65, PIERZ 56 The Dragons opened the playoffs at home on Thursday, March 2 with an impressive win over a very veteran and athletic Pierz squad. Pine City beat the Pioneers by six just three games earlier, as the regular season was drawing to a close. The Dragons came into this matchup knowing their opponent would not be backing down. “We knew they would be ready to play and knew we needed to be focused,” said Pine City head coach

Ted Hasz. “We felt like there were times that we were going to put the game out of reach but Pierz just kept hitting shots. They really made us earn the victory.” Pierz took an early 5-2 lead but then the Dragons went on a 16-0 run and never trailed again. The Pioneers showed a lot of fight and cut Pine City’s lead to two a few times, but the Dragons stretched the lead to 14 with about five minutes to play, and hung on for the win. Lily Wilson had 19 points, four assists and five steals. Grace Langmade had 18 points, three assists and six steals. Alaina Steele had nine points while Alison Brown finished with eight points and seven boards. The win propelled the Dragons to the section quarterfinals for the first time since 2005. “It was a great win for our program,” added Hasz. “It has been a number of years since we have advanced in the playoffs. It is another big step for us. We have come a long

LANCE FURBER | THE PIONEER

(above) #24 Grace Langmade goes in with a hook shot. She had 18 points, three assists and six steals on the game, led only by (top right) #11 Lily Wilson who amassed 19 points, four assists and ﬁve steals in the game against Pierz.

way in the last few years.” The Dragons’ next game would have them head west to St. Johns University to face a St. Cloud Cathedral team that was looking to avenge a regular season double overtime loss to Pine City. Unfortunately, the Dragons’ season would come to an end in that game, losing despite battling hard. ST. CLOUD CATHEDRAL 58, PINE CITY 43 Cathedral has an imposing lineup with good athletes, and held a sizeable height advantage over Pine City. The Dragons had a very sluggish start on offense, falling behind 9-0. That hole proved to be too much to come back from as Pine City never led in the contest. Although the Dragons trailed by 14 at halftime, they rallied in the second half to cut the lead to six a few times, but could never get over the hump. “We had some early game jitters which contributed to a slow start,” said Hasz. “I really liked how we regained our composure at that point and started to get more comfortable. We cut the lead to 13-8 and seemed to be right back in it. We had a couple of scoring lulls in the game and one that hurt was at the end of the half when they outscored us 9-1 to go into half time. I was very happy with the way the kids responded, going on an 8-0 run to start the second half and you could see the momentum had switched.” The Dragons had a few possessions in the second half with opportunities to cut the lead to three or four, but just couldn’t get shots to drop. With Pine City struggling from the outside, Brown went to work on the interior and had a huge game for the Dragons. The junior repeatedly crashed the offensive boards, got open in pick and roll situations, and dominated inside for stretches as she led the team in scoring. Cathedral made 27 of 33 free throws and defended the perimeter very well. “We are very proud of these kids,” said Hasz. “They have worked hard and have come so far. We will really miss our senior Katherine Rike and our senior manager Natasha Petschke. They have been great for our program. I know that the kids that are coming back will have a great off season and already have big goals for next season.”

LANCE FURBER | THE PIONEER

In Focus cuss An educational and support pport series alth System presented by FirstLight Health

Pre-Diabetes 101 Seminar Tuesday, March 21 5—6:30pm FirstLight Health System 301 Highway 65 South Mora, MN 55051 If you’re concerned about pre-diabetes or developing diabetes, join us for this FREE informative seminar. • Learn the deﬁnition of pre-diabetes and how it is diagnosed. • Discover how making small lifestyle changes can prevent diabetes. • Take home valuable resources, including books and other handouts. Presented by Danna Woods, RD, LD, a registered and licensed dietician and member of FirstLight’s Nutritional Services Department. REGISTRATION REQUIRED For more information, questions, or to register, please call (320) 225-3640. You may also email info@ﬂ-hs.org to register. To learn more about FirstLight’s other classes, support groups and events, visit FirstLightHealthSystem.org.

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SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com

Neid one-and-done at State, only 2nd loss of season BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

CHRISTINA BLAISER

Unfortunately losing his opening round match at the Xcel Energy Center at the State Tournament March 3-4, senior Dakotah Neid still ﬁnished the season 22-2 overall, with an impressive 89 wins over the course of his high school career.

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Wrapping up wrestling season at the State Tournament March 3-4, Pine City senior Dakotah Neid was the lone participant from the Dragons co-op. Neid made State for the second time in his high school career, and was returning two years after his first trip to the Xcel as a sophomore. Unfortunately Neid finished on a down note, losing his opening round match 7-3 to Jacob Clark at 220-pounds. Neid finished the season 22-2 overall. “Dakotah had a kid from Painview-Elgin-Millville and lost his first match,” said Dragons coach Milo Allen. “I kind of think he lost it on a scramble. Was tough losing and going 0-1 and having it be over. Still, a pretty good career, pretty decorated for Dakotah.” In the match, Neid started strong and controlled the first period. The second period saw a shift in momentum as his opponent was able to slowly wear Neid down. Neid ultimately lost on points in a very close match. “I wanted to go into my match focused on just the other guy in that circle with me but the thousands of people watching always is a little nerve racking,” admitted Neid. “The first period was good, I got the take down and kept him down for the rest of time. The second and third period was a mess with him riding me out and me getting caught in a head lock that I managed to

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get out of but that drained every ounce of energy I had. He beat me with a minor decision.” Even though the experience ended with just Neid’s second loss of the season, the senior said he was thrilled to have made State once again. “It was exciting,” Neid said of the atmosphere at Xcel Energy Center. “It felt great to be there again my senior year. It helped going as a sophomore because I knew how the place worked and what to do and where to go, so it helped keep my nerves down and just focus on the match.” Neid plans to wrestle Greco-Roman and freestyle in the spring and hopes he can wrestle in college. Overall, he said that it has been a great experience wrestling for the Dragons. “I’d like to thank my coaches,” added Neid, “Milo Allen, Andrew Burger, and Brent Nelson. They’ve taught me everything I know about wrestling. Especially Milo, he’s been there since the beginning. He’s the one that got me into the sport and has been my practice partner for the last three years. I’d also like to thank my mom Christina Blaiser and my wrestling family and friends for supporting me.” Neid walks off of the mat for the last time as a two-time State participant, and one-time Section Champion. Neid tallied 89 wins over his career as a fivetime letter winner and two-time Great River Conference Champion.

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MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

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Dragons beat Ogilvie, ready for playoffs BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

Becoming just the second boys basketball team in school history to finish the regular season with 20 wins, Pine City finished on a high note in one game during their final week before the postseason. The Dragons took care of business against Ogilvie on Friday, March 3 and appear ready to make some noise in the Section 6AA playoffs. PINE CITY 96, OGILVIE 25 This game was never in doubt as the Dragons built a 17-0 lead less than four minutes into the game. Junior Clay Logan came out flying for Pine City, scoring the team’s first 10 points on his way to a team-high 18 for the night. During the minutes that the five starters were on the floor during the first half, Ogilvie managed just one basket. “Everyone got in the game, everyone got lots of minutes,” said Dragons head coach Kyle Allen. “We got some real valuable minutes to everyone on the team, which was great. Austin Hansmann led us with eight rebounds, and we focus on that. I was really happy with our defense and our rebounding, and we need to continue to focus on that as we move into the playoffs. We had a lot of guys play really well. Clay Logan had six rebounds and scored the ball really well. Konnor Jusczak ended with 12 points, four assists, five rebounds and only one turnover as the backup point guard. I thought the focus was good coming in.” Nick Hansmann was the only other Dragon in double figures with 10, while senior Adam Seals was back after a onegame absence, and scored nine. Pine City will now host Mora in the opening round of the playoffs, a game that will be a rematch of last year’s

opening round postseason contest that was won by the Mustangs in Mora. The Dragons just beat Mora 61-51 back on Tuesday, Feb. 21. “Looking forward, we have Mora,” said Allen. “We earned a home playoff game, so the QRF has us as the three seed. It’s a rematch of last year’s playoff game; we had a real gritty game there. We know it’s going to be a battle. Cal Wright (of Mora) is a heck of a player; he will be the best basketball player on the floor for either team. Hopefully we can execute at a high level. It’s become a rivalry game. Us and Mora throughout all of our athletics have a rivalry here, so we’re excited to host them on Thursday.” The Dragons know they can’t come in overconfident just because they beat the Mustangs a few weeks back. Postseason games always bring added intensity, and Pine City will certainly get Mora’s best on Thursday night, March 9. “We have to go out there and focus,” said Allen. “They’re talented, they play aggressive and gritty, and we have to match that and exceed them in that game. We’re going to do everything we can to be focused so we can get the win.” Should the Dragons earn a victory, a second round rematch with Milaca would appear likely. The Wolves beat the Dragons 83-61 in January. Pine City plays in a loaded Section 6AA. Not only is defending State Champion Braham in the top half of the bracket, but two of the top four teams in the state also play in this section between #2 Melrose (26-0) and #4 St. Cloud Cathedral (22-4). The Dragons would need a run of unprecedented proportions to make State this season. Nevertheless, they’re doing great things and appear to be playing their best basketball at the right time.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

Gymnasts compete in Waconia Gymnasts from Pine City, Rush City, Mora and North Branch competed with the Dynamic Flights teams in Lake Waconia on Saturday, Feb. 11. The bronze team placed third in their division. The silver team took second place in their division. The gold team (top right) also performed well in their division and took home three more medals.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pine City’s Willert competes in regional free throw competition On Sunday, Feb. 26, the Knights of Columbus with membership from Aitkin, Crosby-Ironton, Deerwood, Emily and Garrison hosted the Region 7 Free Throw Competition, with competitors from Barnum to North Branch to Holdingford to Pequot Lakes. Back row, (l-r): Madison Ophus, Sturgeon Lake, age 9; Jenna Bryant, Isle, age 10; Jean Saldana, Little Falls, age 11; Maci Kukuk, Willow River, age 12; Lily Peterson, Deerwood, age 13; Gracie Peterson, Sandstone, age 14. Front row: Danny Goodwin, Deerwood, age 9; Elijah Youngs, Moose Lake, age 10; Jordan Mount, Crosby, age 11; Cooper Johnson, Pequot Lakes, age 12; Drake Willert, Pine City, age 13; Cody Kimman, Pierz, age 14.

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FROM PAGE ONE

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com

Miller makes city council LOUN: Family remembers Dante Sears resignation official FROM PAGE 1 that he wouldn’t re-offend after he is released.

BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

SSIO

On March 1, Pine City Council Member Paul Miller officially resigned from the city council in order to accept the position of assistant fire chief at the Pine City Fire Department. Miller submitted a written letter of resignation to the council. “I hereby resign as City Council member effective immediately. I no longer wish to be on the council as I would be more happy with my new position as Assistant Chief on the Pine City Fire Department. With the rules that a few of you wanted me to abide by, I feel that I could not give the citizens their right representation for the better of the city as a whole. With serv-

ing on the Fire Department of over 30 years I believe that I can give more there than I can give at the city.” At the March 1 meeting of the city council, Mayor Carl Pederson and Council Member Steve Ovick thanked Miller for his years of service to the city, the city council and the fire department. With the resignation approved, the four remaining council members then officially approved the hiring of Miller as assistant fire chief. Miller’s four-year term on the city council would have been up in 2018, which means that the city council will now appoint a citizen of Pine City to replace him as a member of the city council for the time remaining.

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‘STILL SHINING’ In a written statement, Dante’s mother, Jesse Anderson, said she had trusted Loun to look after her children, and said she was now heartbroken, angry and betrayed. Loun was left to babysit Dante and his older brother while Anderson – Loun’s girlfriend at the time – went to work on the evening of Aug. 24, 2015. At 11:56 p.m. Loun sent the first of a series of texts to the mother saying that Dante had fallen and was injured, but then later said Dante was fine. At 7:08 a.m., she sent Loun a text message telling him she was on her way home. “I came home from work to a horrific scene,” Anderson wrote. When she arrived home, Loun was gone. The mother found a note on the wall from Loun, directly across from the doorway. In the note, Loun said he had picked up Dante off the floor and was changing him when Dante urinated on him. “I snapped,” the note read. “I banged his head on the floor. Hes not ok. I’m so sorry, I stayed up icing his head.” The note went on: “I’m done with life all I do is hurt people I’m sorry I hurt you I’m sorry I hurt (Dante) ... Thank you for loving me and I’m sorry you loved me. I’m done. I’m gone. I love you.” Anderson said she went to Dante and picked him up. He was bleeding from his mouth and nose. “He was not crying, but I could tell that he was hurting,” she wrote. At the hospital, doctors found the child to have a fractured skull, brain injury, bleeding around the brain, bruising around his neck and injuries to his genital areas. He also had hemorrhages inside his right eye and a possible fracture in his lower back. Anderson said that on Aug. 29, Dante passed away in the arms of his mom and dad. They made Dante an organ donor so he could help other children. “We have heard that those who had the organs donated are doing well,” Anderson wrote. “Our little light is still shining somehow.”

Anderson wrote that when putting Dante to bed, he would always say, “Goodnight, I love you.” “Then he would stand on his bed and say, ‘kiss,’ because he always wanted one last kiss,” she said. “I thank God I got that one last kiss.” LOUN SNAPS Loun was convicted of criminal vehicular homicide in 2006, and as Assistant County Attorney Michelle Skubitz described similarities between that case and this – asserting that he had tried to hide the body of his victim – Loun Loun began to shout and swear at Skubitz saying that it was not true. He finally went quiet after Judge Krista Martin ordered the bailiff to stand directly behind him. “Not one more word,” Martin told Loun. Loun remained quiet for the rest of the proceedings. Defense attorney Michael Berger, read a statement from Loun in which he expressed regret for his actions. “There is nothing I can say that can make the pain go away ... the hate go away,” Loun wrote. “I am very truly sorry for what happened. As part of the plea deal, the other charges against Loun – which included one charge of first degree murder, two other counts of second degree murder, one count of felony first degree assault, one count of felony malicious punishment and one count of felony third degree assault – were dropped. Defense attorney Virginia Murphrey stated for the record that Loun had tried to plead guilty to second-degree murder early on in the case, but the prosecution had rejected that plea in order to pursue a first-degree murder case – before finally settling on a second-degree murder plea. Martin set Loun’s sentence at 480 months – 40 years – with a minimum of 320 months in prison and 560 days of credit for time served. Martin commended Dante’s family for their courage. “I know that each and every one of them would give their lives to bring him back,” she said. “I hope this brings you some measure of peace.”

BUFFER: First compliance deadline Nov. 1 FROM PAGE 1

The first deadline for landowner compliance is Nov. 1, 2017 for public waters. Public ditches must be compliant by Nov. 1, 2018. On Nov. 1 this year, the county will notify property owners if they are not compliant, Schroeder said. Pine County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will send BWSR a list of noncompliant properties. They will complete a list of steps and monitor for compliance. SWCD must help landowners comply with the buffer law. Landowners who do not or will not comply with the buffer zone ordinance would be criminally prosecuted, or the county or state would issue an administrative penalty order (APO). Information provided by Schroeder revealed that the State can only issue APOs. But, if the county were enforcing the law it could include criminal prosecution rather than an APO. For the criminal offense, ordinance violations are generally a misdemeanor with a $1,000 fine and/or up to 90 days in jail. BWSR has proposed this schedule for buffer compliance and fines: -There will be no fine for 11 months after the landowner has been given a notice that corrective action is required. - After the 11-month grace period, the landowner will be fined $50-$200 per parcel per month for six months. - If the buffer zone still hasn’t been completed, the fine will be $200-$500 per parcel per month for the next six months.

Board member Steve Hallan said the ordinance was a topic of conversation at the Association of Minnesota Counties meeting. He said there was confusion about whether county attorneys want to take on the enforcement. Pine County Attorney Reese Fredrickson said it would depend on the ordinance. His office would administer the criminal portion. Hallan said the county should take on the responsibility, not the State. He also said there would probably be someone who refused to comply. BWSR can do the administrative part but they cannot do enforcement, Schroeder said. County Land and Resource Manager Caleb Anderson told the board SWCD has a preliminary list of noncompliant parcels. Hallan said it might be “a lot of to-do” about five farms. They are either going to “lawyer up or comply.” “This whole thing has been a disaster since the get-go,” was Commissioner Josh Mohr opinion. County Administrator David Minke said by statute, the county has to adopt a buffer ordinance. There is a review or appeal process, he added. “Who trumps who if BWSR says the county interpreted the law wrong?” Hallan asked. Board Chairman Matt Ludwig called SWCD “the fixer.” They would issue the letter of noncompliance and send it to BWSR. Then they would reach out to the landowner with assistance in complying with the law.

SCHOOLS

MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Ninth grade honors band heads to UMD Nine Pine City Junior High Band members were recently nominated and accepted to perform in the 49th Annual University of Minnesota - Duluth Honors Band held on Feb. 28 in Duluth. Out of a pool of over 600 students representing 60 participating schools from Minnesota and Wisconsin, these Pine City ninth grade students were chosen as members of the ﬁnal performing ensembles. Upon receiving their music that morning, students participated in four hours of rehearsals and concluded the afternoon with a public performance of their music. Grade 9 Honor Band members include: (back): Emily Guzik, Trent Raudabaugh, JJ Preston, Jordan Johnson, Josh Rike; (front): Belle Sanders, Matthew Long, Kenny Vo, Emily Schueller.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pine City junior high students perform in honors band Eight Pine City Junior High Band members were recently nominated and accepted to perform in the 8th Annual Minnesota Band Directors Association Honors Band held on Jan. 28 in Braham. Out of a pool of over 300 students representing 30 participating schools from North Eastern Minnesota, 85 musicians were chosen as members of the ﬁnal performing ensemble. Students participated in six hours of rehearsals and concluded the afternoon with a public performance of their music. (Front row, l-r): Megan Olson, Dakotah Sandall, Autumn Somora; (middle): Charlie Emmons, Ainsley Vinaja, Elly Tyberg; (back): Conor Kirby, Toby Bulera.

2016-17 First Semester Dragon Academic Awards Pine City Elementary recently awarded the Dragon Academic Awards to 263 students in grades four through six for their high achievement during the first half of the school year. Awards were presented to students for maintaining an A average during first and/or second quarter, most overall academic improvement during the first half of the school year, citizenship, most effort, high creative abilities in written expression, and outstanding music skills.

FOURTH GRADE Henry Ames Charlie Ausmus Macie Babolik Landyn Baumert Paige Berg Anthony Bergeron Colson Berglund Carmen Bergstrom Bryer Berube Nick Blaiser Luke Bloomquist Amelia Bombard Luke Bombard Paige Bombard Noah Brady Rachel Brown Raiden Brown Emma Bubendorf Abbie Burch Alayna Burton Ryan Carl Kloey Casserly Kaylie Christenson Austin Christian Sophie Eckert Eli Fromm Ryan Goulet Jackson Grover Graham Hansen Olivia Harshman Logan Harvey Beau Hegge Stella Helseth Kacee Hiler Ethan Horak

Ben Huettl Wyatt Humeniuk Maya Iglesias Erik James Hateya Janowski Ben Jansen Gianni Johnson Owen Kearns Logan Kolecki Joshua Koskie Julian Kozisek Meranda LaBine Rainee Lange Daimien Lord Morgan Macho Delilah Maish Sawyer McDaniel Roman McKinney Piper Mettling Daniel Milliman James Moore Aiden Museus Alayna Nelson Adelaide Neshek Cody Nolan Amber Norton Alyssa Olson Deseray Olson Nia Patzoldt Peyton Perrault Christopher Perrault Jace Peterson Samantha Phipps Valerie Pickett Kaylee Randall Brecken Reiser

Waylan Remme Samantha Root Aaron Rootkie Laina Sanborn Brody Schurmeier Aleysha Secrest Elizabeth Simon Nicholas St. Germain Peyton St. Germain Nicholas Stewart Kadence Wallenberg Tucker Wasson Landon Weber-Mortenson Austin Weiner Caden Weiner Jayden Westberg Bryer Willert William Wilson Gavin Wilson Levi Wilson FIFTH GRADE Abby Aagaard Bianca Basta Ashley Basta Rosita Becerra Emma Belsheim Kate Benzinger Evan Blaiser Matthew Blake Ricki Blegen Hannah Bombard Gavin Broz Morgan Broz Samantha Charles Eyrah Churchill Ricky Clepper Ava Danielson Mirissa David Ethan Doenz Caitlin Enright Alex Evans Deacon Foss Oscar Gribauval

Caleb Hall Isabel Harms Hunter Haug Trevor Hazelton Emma Hermanson Julia Hochban Alexis Johnson Brady Johnson Eva Johnson Greyson Johnson Tristian Johnson Brody Karas Angelina Kirby Max Knudson Tucker Kubesh Natalie Laven Mason LeMon Leo LeTourneau Trinity Long Hayden McLain Malia Mikyska Brooke Mitzel Kylie Nascene Phoebe Nelson Kassedy Olson Sophia Olson Jacob Paulson Waylon Petersen Jace Preston Olivia Reynolds Lena Roubinek Ava Rydberg Arissa Rydberg Isabelle Sanchez Eden Sauter Lilly Schneider Brooklyn Shelilto Sage Staber Lily Struss Christian Swanson Brody Tayerle Hannah Theisen Summer Theiman Jenna Tomczyk Jacob Treu

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McCoy Leger Madisson LeMon Kloey Lind Mason Lind Selena Lynaugh Rowan Maxey Chloe Mckellar John Mead Kari Milligan Brianna Munoz Owen Neel Jhans Nilo Kyilee Nowling Aiden Palmer Cody Patzoldt Ashley Peters Nick Plasek Ryan Prihoda Maggie Pulley Paige Reynolds Mariah Rivard Austin Robinson Preston Robinson Briana Rothbauer Robert Sandell L.J. Schmidt Gavin Schueller Eli Schultz Gabby Schumacher James Schumann Ella Sell Addie Sell Carly Sheppard Carder Stish Ciara Stone Emma Strike Lisa Tomczyk Carly Tyberg Gao Vang Dylan Wasche Luke Wilson Ryder Youngbauer

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OBITUARIES

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com

Kurtiss Rike

City; many nieces, nephews and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Forrest and Ruth (Wickstrom) Rike; siblings Sharon Cummings and Russell Rike. Pastor Rob Spahr will officiate services for Kurt at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 10 at the First Presbyterian Church in Pine City. A time of visitation and reviewal is planned for Thursday, March 9 from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Swanson Funeral Chapel, and also one hour prior to the service at the church. The interment will take place in the Birchwood Cemetery of Pine City. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City – Swanson Chapel; www.funeralandcremationservice.com.

Kurtiss Rike was born o July 30, 1941, in Pine on C City to Forrest and Ruth ( (Wickstrom) Rike. Kurt l lived on the family farm i Rock Creek with his in o older sister Sharon and y younger brother Russell a sister Pam. He gradand u uated from Rush City H High School in 1959. He married his high school sweetheart Sharon Althoff on June 26, 1965. From this marriage three children were born: Martin, Michael and Julie. In his working years, Kurt worked at Land-O-Lakes in Pine City, Pine City Co-Op doing crop spraying and appliance repair and also worked with his brother in Rush City as a welder and he then finished out his career working many years as an over the road truck driver; which he truly loved. Kurt devoted much of his free time serving his community. In his early years, he was a Pine County deputy and EMT. He continued his devotion to his community as a volunteer Pine City fire fighter for over 23 years. His service did not end there; he was a volunteer Minnesota Firearms Safety Instructor for over 30 years. Kurt was an avid hunter and enjoyed hunting on the family property and his many trips to Wyoming with family and friends hunting deer. He became a grandfather to Spencer, Megan and Marisa Teich and he truly enjoyed their many visits and loved to spoil them rotten. During his retirement, Kurt spent his time with his wife Sharon. He enjoyed watching westerns and outdoor/hunting shows, playing cards, doing small projects around the house, visiting with friends and family and playing with his grandchildren. Kurt left us to join the Lord on March 2, 2017, at his home per his wishes. Kurt is survived by his wife Sharon Rike of Pine City; children: Martin Rike and Michael Rike, both of Pine City, Julie (Greg) Teich of Cambridge; grandchildren: Spencer, Megan and Marisa Teich; sister Pam (Gary) Pierson of Oakdale; brother-in-law Don Cummings of Braham; sister-in-law Betty Rike of Rush

Helen M. Anderson Helen Anderson p passed away peacefully F Friday, March 3, 2017, a the Lakeside Mediat c Center in Pine City cal a the age of 81. at Helen Margaret B Blumhoefer was born D Dec. 30, 1935, to George a and Genevieve (Jandl) Blumhoefer in Franklin, Minnesota. Helen started school in Grasston where she attended first and second grades; then moved to Pine City where she attended the Rural School and graduated from Pine City High School in 1953. She married Gene Anderson on Dec. 13, 1958, in Pine City and moved to Rock Creek to start their family. In 1966, they moved to the Twin Cities area and settled in Moundsview in 1967. Helen was a stay at home mom and babysat the neighborhood kids. She volunteered at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Brighton and taught Catechism. She enjoyed trips with her family which included road trips to Oregon, California, Washington DC, Florida and Arizona. For their 25th wedding anniversary, Helen and Gene celebrated with a reception in their home and a trip to Jamaica. Gene also surprised Helen with a trip to New York for Mother’s Day. She

enjoyed volunteering at the Minnesota Twins games for Homeward Bound in New Hope, where her daughter Lisa lived. She liked to tell stories of conversations she had with the baseball players. In 1995, Helen and Gene moved back up north to Rock Creek. They traveled to Texas to visit one of their children and grandchildren. On those trips they would make stops in Branson, Missouri or Arizona. In 2008, Helen and Gene celebrated their 50th anniversary with an Alaskan cruise. Helen’s smile and laugh will be missed. We are blessed to know she was called back home by our Father and has been reunited with two of her children, grandchildren and many family and friends. Helen is survived by her loving husband of 58 years Eugene Anderson of Rock Creek; children: Brian (Judy) Anderson of Harris, Doug (Kathy) Anderson of Woodbury, Debra (Kurt) Wendorf of Sherman, Texas, Beth (Chuck) Ruud of Andover; siblings: Tom (Shirley) Blumhoefer of Pine City, and Gerald (Virginia) Blumhoefer of Coon Rapids; grandchildren: Joe (Tracy) Anderson of North Branch, Nicole (Joe) Richie of Roberts, Wisconsin, Tyler Anderson of Woodbury, Tanner (Angie) Wendorf of Manchester, Tennessee, Terri (Ryan) Fine of Sherman, Texas, Lisa Wendorf of Wichita Falls, Texas, Max Wendorf of Sherman, Texas, Andy Ruud of Clarksville, Tennessee and Amanda Ruud of Andover; great-grandchildren: Abigail and Elliot Fine and Adam Anderson. She is preceded in death by her parents George and Genevieve Blumhoefer; son Tim Anderson; daughter Lisa Anderson; grandsons Nathan Anderson and Sam Anderson; sister Esther (Arnie) Knapp; brother Raymond Blumhoefer. Monsignor Alexsander Suchan will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial for Helen at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 15 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Pine City. A time of visitation and reviewal is planned for Tuesday, March 14 from 5-8 p.m., with the Rosary at 7 p.m. at the Swanson Chapel in Pine City, and also one hour prior to the funeral Mass in the St. Anthony Commons area at church. The interment will take place in the Pine Grove Cemetery with her grandchildren acting as casket bearers. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City – Swanson Chapel. SEE OBITUARIES, PAGE 17

WORSHIP GUIDE www.grasstonbaptist.org info@grasstonbaptisit.org 320.396.2645 Worship Service 9:30am Sunday School 10:45am

Church of Christ

815 7th St. SW, Pine City 10 a.m. Bible Study 11 a.m. Worship Service 4 p.m. Evening Service Wednesday, 7 p.m. Bible Study. Contact: Greg Douvier 320-420-1302

Hands for Pine City Outreach Church Meeting at Pine City Library Community Room, 300 5th St. SE Sunday NIGHTS 5-6PM Pastors Julie & Brad Samuelson 320-496-3009 Hands4PC@gmail.com Facebook fan page: Hands for Pine City Existing to be the hands of Jesus to Pine City

Dale Evangelical Free Church 45268 Brunswick Rd, Harris, MN 763-689-5817 Pastor/Teacher Dr. Harvey Martin Sunday School, all ages 9:00 am Sunday Service 10:25 am www.daleefc.com Awana, Wed. 6:30-8:00pm Youth, Wed. 6:30-8:00pm

Henriette Community Church (Free Methodist) One mile North of Henriette on HWY 107 • 320-679-4875 Pastor Marvin Miller Sunday School, 9:00a.m.; Sunday morning Worship, 10:15 a.m.

First Presbyterian Church 405 Main St. S., Pine City 320-629-3592 Rev. Rob Spahr www.firstprespinecity.org 9:15 a.m. Sunday School-all ages, 10:30 a.m. Worship Celebration Wednesday @ 6:15 p.m. Youth Group

Hinckley Seventh Day Adventist

Grace Baptist Church 1 mile Southwest of Pine City on Fairway Road (next to I-35) 320-629-1374 Pastor Tim W. Stratton 10:00 a.m. Sunday School for all ages. 11:00 a.m. Preaching Service, 6:00 p.m. Evening Service. 7:30 p.m. Wed. Bible study, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Master Clubs for children ages 4 to 6th grade.

Grasston Baptist Church 402 N. Oak St. Grasston, MN 55030

550 1st St. NE, Hinckley 320-384-6167 Pastor: Carlos Rodriguez Services, Saturday, 11 a.m. Fellowship lunch 1st and 3rd Saturday following services.

Hope Lutheran Church Grasston Jim Sodergren, Pastor 320-396-3925 hopelutherangrasston.org Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship Service; 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; Holy Communion first and third Sundays and festival days.

Hustletown Community Church Non-denominational 17945 Blue Jay Ln. Pastor Bruce Thompson 320-225-9231 Sunday School, 10:15 a.m., Worship Service 11 a.m.

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church 535 8th St. SW, Pine City 320-629-2935 Monsignor Alek Suchan www.icchurchpinecitymn.org office@icchurcpinecitymn.org Mass: Saturday 5 pm, Sunday 10 am, Confession: Saturday 4-4:30pm, Sunday 9:15-9:45am

Journey North Church Current location: 840 Main St S, behind A&W. Pastor Tim Adams 320-629-6111 Sunday Services: 9 & 10:30 a.m. Nursery, toddlers and KidVenture programs during both services. www.JourneyNorthChurch.com

Living Hope Christian Center Pastor Jeremy Langmade Assembly of God 11914 Fairway Rd. SW, Pine City ¾ mile West of I-35 on Pokegama Lake Road 320-629-6136 Livinghopepinecity@gmail.com Sunday Mornings: Life Class 9 a.m., Worship Service 10 a.m.

Living Water Fellowship 915 W. 8th St. Rush City, MN Sunday Service 10:00 a.m.

Call 320-358-3818 for weekly Bible studies and youth activities.

10:00 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Fellowship following Worship

Open Arms Church of God

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

406 Pine St., Grasston, MN 320-396-3373 Pastor Gene Sherrod Spirit Filled Worship Sunday Worship 10 a.m. Children’s ministry

320-629-2935 19390 Ave, Beroun, MN Monsignor Alek Suchan Sunday Mass 8:00 a.m.

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church 825 Golf Ave SW, Pine City 320-629-2985 Pastor Fred Hanson Sunday Services: 8 & 9:30 a.m. Sunday School preK-6th grade at 9:30 a.m. Coffee and fellowship between services Wednesday Lenten Services begin March 1 at 4:30 & 6:30 p.m. Soup and sandwich suppers served Wednesdays from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Pine City Evangelical Free Church 625 Golf Ave SW Pastor Joel Preston Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. Sunday School (all ages) 9:15 a.m. Nursery (infant-3yrs) all morning Wednesdays: AWANA (Sept-Apr) 6 p.m.; Frontline (Youth Group), Jr & Sr High 6:00 p.m. Phone: 320-629-2584 Email: office@pcefc.com, www.pcefc.com

Pomroy Chapel

South Pine Baptist Church formerly Trinity Baptist Fellowship Pine City Library Community Room, 300 5th St SE Pine City, MN Pastor Dennis Eng 320-336-9292 Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Service 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible study at 7p.m. Call for location www.southpinebaptist.com

Trinity Episcopal Church 305 First St. NE, Box 204 Hinckley, MN 55037 320-245-0537 All Sunday services at 10:00 a.m. No services on any 5th Sunday

Zion Lutheran Church 410 Main St. S, Pine City Worship 9 a.m. Wednesday Service 7 p.m. Growing in Grace Preschool Mon-Wed- Fri a.m. Pastor Glen Kleppe 320-629-3683

2700 320th Ave., Brook Park A NON-DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP For Special events &/or group studies call: 320-679-3925 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. Prayer

The businesses below invite you to attend the house of worship of your choice.

PIONEER PINE CITY

Where You Get the Most Out of Life www.ElderwoodofHinckley.com

(320) 384-7373 • 710 Spring Lane, Hinckley

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320-629-2561 Serving the Pine City Area Since 1896

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320-629-6771 www.pinecitymn.com

PEOPLE

MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

OBITUARIES

IN MEMORY

Lillian ‘Lil’ M. Brown

Lillian “Lil” Brown, a 73, of Cedar passed age a away peacefully on M March 2, 2017, with her c children, grandchildren a great-grandchildren and a her side. She was preat c ceded in death by her h husband, Bryan, last M May. Lillian “Lil” Mae B Brown was born Jan. 22, 1 1944, to John and Arlie ( (Pepper) Butler. Lillian worked for many years in the healthcare field. She was dedicated to her family and especially enjoyed celebrating Christmas with them. She loved sewing quilts, cooking, baking cookies with her grandkids, and playing with her great-grandbabies. Lillian was a best friend, a loving wife and mother, a wonderful sister and aunt. She will be deeply missed by many friends and her surviving family: siblings, Vivian (Arthur) Wright, and John (Barbara) Butler and family; her children, Michelle (Scott) Muehlberg, Colleen (Nathan) Bray, and Matthew Brown; stepsons, James (Suzanne) Schilling, and Thomas Schilling; grandchildren, James (Caylin) Muehlberg, Shanna (Ben) Cassidy, Andi (Nick) Linn; and great-grandchildren, Nathan, Jameson, Dylan, Addison and Calisyn. Lillian was so grateful to her granddaughter Andi for being “Grandma’s voice” and “rock” through her many medical appointments. She appreciated all of her grandchildren who so tirelessly assisted her during her long courageous battle against cancer. Lillian left us too soon to follow her husband to their eternal home just nine short months after he first left us. We love you

Mom...always, forever... A memorial visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m., Friday, March 17 at Strike Funeral Home – Isanti Chapel. Online condolences can be made at StrikeFuneral.com.

Eunice M. Cummings Eunice Marie Cumm mings, formerly of Pine C City, passed away at the F Foley Nursing Center T Thursday, March 2, 2017, a the age of 97. at Eunice was born to F Floyd and Grace Smith o Nov. 10, 1919, in Conon g gerville, Illinois. She is s survived by her daught ters Sally (Wade) Stegem man of Tuscon, Arizona and Barbara (Mike) Schwarzkopf of Clear Lake, Minnesota; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, one great-greatgrandchild, other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Floyd Cummings, her parents Charles and Grace Smith and four siblings. Reverend Al Jergenson officiated funeral services for Eunice at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at the Swanson Chapel in Pine City. A time of visitation and reviewal was planned for one hour prior to the service at the chapel. The interment will take place in the Birchwood Cemetery, Pine, City. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City, Swanson Chapel; www.FuneralAndCremationService.com.

Happy 85th birthday March 7, 1932 - March 11, 2010 It’s been six years already. Sadly missed by wife and family. LaVona Brackenbury and his children, also many friends and family

In loving memory of

‘Maggie’ Dec. 31, 1951 - March 14, 2015 I thought of you today, as I often do. And with each thought came a small smile, a warm memory and a little prayer thanking God for giving me a friend like you. Miss you girlie. Audrey

PINE COUNTY SHERIFF’S BLOTTER Feb. 27 - March 5 Theft, burglary, vandalism

Feb. 27, 10:29 a.m., report of property damage, 8th Ave./2nd St., Pine City south. Feb. 28, 6:22 a.m., report of property damage, Elmcrest Ave., Royalton Twp. Feb. 28, 9:23 a.m., report of theft, Forest Blvd., Rock Creek west. Feb. 28, 2:43 p.m., report of fraud, Main St., Pine City north. Feb. 28, 5:54 p.m., report of property damage, Tigua Rd./Pokegama Lake Rd., Pokegama Twp. west. March 1, 3:08 p.m., report of property damage, Main St., Pine City south. March 3, 9:44 p.m., report of driveoffs, 8th St., Pine City north. March 5, 1:59 p.m., report of recovered vehicle, Main St., Henriette. March 5, 3:05 p.m., report of theft, Croix Ln., Rock Creek east.

Miscellaneous Feb. 27, 10:57 a.m., report of assault, Main St., Pine City south. March 1, 5:44 p.m., report of animal disturbance, State Hwy. 70, Rock Creek east. March 2, 7:46 a.m., report of animal disturbance, Holly Rd./Cross Lake Rd., Pokegama Twp. east. March 2, 7:25 p.m., report of unwanted person, Westchester Dr., Pine City north. March 3, 7:04 p.m., report of tenant trouble, State Hwy. 107, Pokegama Twp. west. March 4, 8:37 a.m., report of sounds of shots, Stephanie Ln., Rock Creek west. March 4, 3:26 p.m., report of sounds of shots, Nature Ave., Rock Creek east. March 5, 5:31 p.m., report of animal disturbance, Henriette Rd./Town Hall Rd., Pokegama Twp. east.

Fires and accidents

Feb. 28, 4:51 p.m., report of vehicle in ditch, I-35, Pokegama Twp. east. Feb. 28, 5:47 p.m., report of vehicle in ditch, St. Croix Rd./Cross Lake Rd., Pine City south.

March 1, 11:55 a.m., report of miscellaneous ﬁre, Brook Dr./Brook Park Rd., Pokegama Twp. west. March 3, 10:01 p.m., report of vehicle in ditch, 8th Ave./2nd St., Pine City south. March 5, 4:25 p.m., report of personal injury, Red Oak Rd./Brunswick Rd., Royalton Twp.

Jail roster Feb. 27, Tasheena Rae St John, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, assault- 2nd degree- dangerous weapon- subst bodi...; under sentence, disorderly conduct- disturb an assem... Feb. 27, Ersel Jayme Watts, hold for other agency, probation violationFe. Feb. 27, Erika Marie Fornengo, Pine County warrant, remand-hold, terroristic threats- reckless disr... Released March 1. Feb. 27, Brandon James Lawson, Pine County warrant, remand-bail, no days - sent com, theft- take/use/ transfer movable... Released March 1. Feb. 27, Michael Lawrence Armajo, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, weapon- carry weapon w/o permit. Released Feb. 28. Feb. 27, Deandrea Jewell Leecy, Pine county warrant, remand-RPR, govtsmuggle- contraband into pris...; drugs- 5th degreepossess sche... Released Feb. 28. Feb. 27, Donald David Pepworth, Pine County warrant, traffic- DUI- 2nd degree- GM. Released Feb. 28. Feb. 28, Brian Joseph Roehling, warrant, remand-other authority, fugitive from justice from other st...; hold for other agency, theft- take/ use/transfer movable pro... take/ drive motor vehicle- no... burglary3rd degree- non res- forced- day...; remand-bail, drugs- 5th degreepossess schedu... trafficdriving after revocation. Feb. 28, Jacob Richard Stauffer, awaiting trial/court, under sentence, domestic abuse- violate order for...; remand-hold, drugs- 5th degreeposs...; forgery- offer forged checkFe...

Feb. 28, Jared Benjamin Yerke, under sentence, drugs- 5th degree- possmarijuana. Released March 4. Feb. 28, Christian James Benjamin, warrant, Pine County writ, theft$500 or less- M... Released March 2. Feb. 28, Mark Drew Masters, warrant, Pine County warrant, trespass- return to property within...; no days sent com, theft- obtain services- no payment... Released March 1. Feb. 28, Lisa Ann Reichstadt, warrant, under sentence, traffic- allow operation uninsured ve...; Pine County warrant, traffic regulation- driver must... driving after revocation. Released March 1. Feb. 28, Jason Wade Swanson, Pine County warrant, disorderly conductoffensive/abus...; under sentence, disorderly conduct- disturb an assem... Released March 1. March 1, Thomas Michael Mitzel, under sentence, assault- terrorist threats reckless dis... March 1, Shawn Samuel St John, warrant, remand-hold, drugs- 5th degreepossess schedu... March 1, Joshua Dane Hemmingson, Pine County warrant, drugs- 5th degreeposs... Released March 3. March 1, Eric James Johnson, hold for other agency, domestic abuse no contact order. Released March 2. March 1, William Walter Kensy, Pine County warrant, remand-RPR, govtobstruct legal process- inter...ﬁref... Released March 2. March 1, Clayton Martin Kelm, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, trafﬁc- DUI- 4th degree .08 or more in... Released March 1. March 1, Colin Ryan Meacham, hold for other agency, disturb- disorderly conduct. Released March 1. March 2, Gregory Dean Church, warrant, hold for other agency, drugs5th degreeposs... traffic- careless driving; remand-hold, stolen propertyposs- veh- unk amt. March 2, Jesse Kenneth Rosa, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, drugs5th degreeposs...stolen propertyposs- unknown property- $250... govt- escape from custody; under sentence, burglary- 2nd degreeres- no force- unknown... drugs- 5th

degreeposs/procure/control su... drugs- 5th degreeprocure/poss/ control by... theft- alter/possess/ sell/buy- proper... March 2, Nathan Jay Schwarz, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, drugs5th degreepossess schedu... trafficdriving after revocation. March 2, Roy Alden Shabaiash Jr., warrant- remand-RPR, domestic assault- misdemeanor- commit... March 2, Billy Joe Snyder, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, ﬂeeing police officer in motor veh...; remand-hold, assault- terrorist threats reckless dis...; hold for other agency, drugs- 5th degreeposs/procure/ control su... March 2, Sherry Benjamin, warrant, Pine County warrant, trafficdriving after revocation, MV reg- expired tabs, under sentence, traffic- insurance- no proof. Released March 3. March 2, Kellie Shelene Nelson, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, probable cause, drugs- 5th degreeprocure/possess... poss/sale hypo syringe/need... Released March 3. March 2, Preston Michael Smith, hold for other agency, assault- 2nd degree- dangerous weapon- subst bo... Released March 3. March 2, Nikisha Dawn Brown, hold for other agency, drugs- 5th degreeposs/procure/control... Released March 2. March 2, Shanise Rae St John, hold for other agency, govt- false name to police officer. Released March 2. March 3, Bruce Wayne Anderson, awaiting trial/court, remand- hold, drugs- 3rd degreeposs... March 3, Johnny Glenn Keeling, hold for other agency, probation violation-Fe. March 3, Carrie Jean Major, probation/parole violation, disorderly conductoffensive/abusiv... March 3, Franchesca Agnes Rose Rios, Pine County warrant, trafficdriving after suspension, driver’s license- driving with a...; drugs- possession of drug parapher... March 3, Andrew Charles Sutton, under sentence, assault- 5th degreecommits- attempts or thre... fear of bodily...; burglary- 1st degree- dwell-

ing- occupied... March 3, Brandon Clark Benjamin, Pine County warrant, traffic- accidents- driver fails to... Released March 4. March 3, Edleena Marie Milton, hold for other agency, computer theftMS. Released March 4. March 3, Richard Michal Krawiecki, book and release, probable cause, traffic- driver’s license- driving after cancellation- inimical to public safety. Released March 3. March 3, Angelica Lavonne Vogel, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, drugs- 5th degreepossess sche...; weapon- carry weapon w/o permit. Released March 3. March 4, Kyle Yancey-Lee Engevik, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, drugs- 2nd degree- sell... March 4, John Jacob Engh, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, weaponreckless use- dangerous weapon... March 4, Demetrius Humphrey, Pine County warrant, theft- take/use/ transfer movable pro... March 4, Karen Susan Davis, Pine County warrant, MV reg- illegal use of license pla...; trespassing- business; trafficdriving after revocation; traffic regulation- driver must...; govt- false name to police officer. Released March 5. March 5, Jeremy Phil Monson, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, drugs- 3rd degreeposs... March 5, James Robert Springer, Pine County warrant, drugs- 5th degreepossess schedu... March 5, Dale Francis Boyum Walters, under sentence, disarming a peace officer- take defe...; obstruct legal process- interfere... March 5, Donald Ray Williams, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, assault- domestic assault- misd. March 5, Morris James Bearhart Jr., awaiting trial/court, probable cause, disturb- disorderly conduct. Released March 5.

There have been 396 admissions to the Pine County Jail in 2017.

PINE CITY PIONEER

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STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF PINE DISTRICT COURT TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Court File 58-CV-16-542 Case Type: 14 Civil other-Quiet title SUMMONS Shawn Bennett, Plaintiff vs. Henry Schley; unknown heirs of Emery G. Nedegaard, deceased; unknown heirs of Valborg Nedegaard, deceased; unknown heirs of Bruce A. Nedegaard, deceased; unknown heirs of Claudia J. Nedegaard, deceased; Theodore Plunkett; Diane Plunkett; and Northview Bank, a banking corporation under the law of the State of Minnesota; and also all other persons claiming any right, title, estate, interest or lien in the real estate described herein; Defendants. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff's Complaint against you is on file in the office of the court administrator of the above-name court. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this summons. 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 20 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 20 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Ahlgren Law Office, LLC One North Lake Street, Mora, MN 55051 3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff's Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer. 4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the

relief requested in the complaint. 5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case. 6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute. 7. THIS LAWSUIT MAY AFFECT OR BRING INTO QUESTION TITLE TO REAL PROPERTY located in PINE County, State of Minnesota, legally described as follows: That part of Lot Two (2), Block Four (4), Townsite of Partridge, now Askov, Pine County, Minnesota, described as beginning at the Southeast corner of Lot 2, Block 4, Townsite of Partridge, now Askov, according to the plat on record in the office of the County Recorder within and for Pine County, Minnesota; thence West along the South line of said Lot 2 a distance of 35 feet; thence North parallel to the East line of said Lot 2 a distance of 30 feet; thence East parallel to the South line of said Lot 2 a distance of 35 feet to the East line of said Lot 2; thence South along the East line of said Lot 2 a distance of 30 feet to the Southeast corner thereof, and there to terminate. The object of this action is obtain a judgment that Plaintiff, Shawn Bennett, is the owner in fee, of the above-described real property and that none of said Defendants have any estate or interest therein or lien thereon, except that certain mortgage in favor of Defendant Northview Bank, which Mortgage is filed for record in the office of the Pine County Recorder on September 9, 2016, as Document No. 528788. Dated: December 6, 2016 AHLGREN LAW OFFICE, LLC John P. Ahlgren Attorney for Plaintiff One North Lake Street Mora, Minnesota 55051 Phone: (320) 679-1754 Attorney I.D. #12039X Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 2, 9 and 16, 2017 STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF PINE DISTRICT COURT TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION Court File No. 58-PR-16-100 Estate of: Mary Elma Mans, a/k/a Mary E. Mans, Decedent,

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Application for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s last Will, dated June 7, 1994, has been filed with the Registrar herein, and the Application has been granted informally probating such Will. Any objections may be filed in the above named court and the same will be heard by the Court upon notice of hearing fixed for such purpose. Notice is hereby further given that informal appointment of LaVerne D. Mans whose address is 38379 Wildlife Road, Hinckley, MN 55037, as personal representative of the Estate of the above-named Decedent, has been made. Any heir, devisee, or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative, and the personal representative is empowered to fully administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease, or distribute real estate, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 524.3-607), and the Court otherwise orders. Notice is hereby given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said Estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred. LU ANN BLEGEN Registrar Pine Court Administrator 2017.02.13 13:52:53-06’00’ LU ANN BLEGEN Court Administrator Pine Court Administrator 2017.02.13 13:53:07-06’00’ Filed in Tenth Judicial District Court Nelson, Kim M. (Pine Court Admin) Feb 13 2017 1:59 PM Attorney for Personal Representative CROSBY & WESTBROCK LLC Alexander A. Crosby MN# 0386625 91 Snelling Avenue N, Suite 120 St. Paul, MN 55104 Telephone: 651-493-0097 Facsimile: 651-318-3634 e-mail: acrosby@crosbywestbrock. com. Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 2 and 9, 2017 STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF PINE DISTRICT COURT TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Court File No. 58-PR-17-7 In Re: Estate of Stuart Paul Auers, Jr., a/k/a Stuart P. Auers, a/k/a Stuart Auers, Decedent. NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is given that an Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative was filed with the Registrar. The Registrar accepted the application and appointed Stuart A. Auers, whose address is 1117 Maplewood Ct. SW, Isanti, MN 55040, to serve as the personal representative of the decedent’s estate. Any heir or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Any objection to the appointment of the personal representative must be filed with the Court, and any properly filed objection will be heard by the Court after notice is provided to interested persons of the date of hearing on the objection. Unless objections are filed, and unless the Court orders otherwise, the personal representative has the full power to administer the estate, including, after thirty (30) days from the issuance of letters of general administration, the power to sell, encumber, lease, or distribute any interest in real estate owned by the decedent. Notice is further given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court within four (4) months after the date of this notice or the claims will be barred. Dated: LU ANN BLEGEN Registrar Pine Court Administrator 2017.02.23 14:28:12-06’00’ Dated: LU ANN BLEGEN Court Administrator Pine Court Administrator 2017.02.23 14:28:33-06’00’ Filed in Tenth Judicial District Court Nelson, Kim (Pine Court Administration) Feb 23 2017 3:11 PM MONTZKA LEGAL SERVICES Bennett J. Montzka MN# 184652 P.O. Box 307 Wyoming, MN 55092 Telephone: (651) 462-4200 Facsimile: (651) 462-4444 e-mail: montzka@aol.com Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 9 and 16, 2017 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE DATE: January 31, 2017

BIRTHS

MARCH 9, 2017 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that default has occurred in the conditions of the following described Mortgage: 1. Date of Mortgage: May 12, 2008 2. Mortgagor: Adam Sarvela and Erin Fitzsimmons, Both Single 3. Mortgagee: Members Cooperative Credit Union as successor to Lake State Federal Credit Union 4. Recording Information: Mortgage recorded October 10, 2008, as Document No. A 475825, in the Office of the County Recorder of Pine, Minnesota 5. Assignments of Mortgage: None 6. Tax parcel ID: 40.5442.000 7. Legal description of the property: Lot 1, Block 2, Mortenson’s 1st Addition, Pine County, Minnesota. (Abstract) 8. The physical address of the property: 502 1st Street NE, Hinckley, MN 55037 9. The person holding the Mortgage is not a transaction agent. 10. The requisites of Minn. Stat. 580.02 have been satisfied. The holder of the Mortgage has complied with all conditions precedent to acceleration of the debt secured by the Mortgage and foreclosure of the Mortgage, and all notice and other requirements of applicable statutes. 11. The original principal amount secured by the Mortgage was $93,178.10. 12. At the date of this notice the amount due on the Mortgage, including taxes, if any, paid by the holder of the Mortgage, is $91,239.45. 13. Pursuant to the power of sale in the Mortgage, the Mortgage will be foreclosed, and the mortgaged premises will be sold by the Sheriff at public auction at 10 a.m. April 27, 2017 at the Sheriff’s Office, 635 Northridge Dr. NW, Pine City, MN. 14. The time allowed by law for redemption by Mortgagor or Mortgagor’s personal representatives or assigns is six (6) months after the date of sale. 15. If the real estate is an owner-occupied, single-family dwelling, the date on or before which the mortgagor must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on October 27, 2017. 16. THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING

OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED. Name of Mortgagee: Members Cooperative Credit Union Name and address of Attorney for Mortgagee: /s/Sarah Whiting, Esq. #0392034 101 14th Street Cloquet, MN 55720 (218) 878-3649 Published in the Pine City Pioneer on February 9, 16, 23, March 2, 9 and 16, 2017 ROCK CREEK RESIDENTS Notice is hereby given that the City of Rock Creek Planning Commission meetings will resume on March 20, 2017 at 7PM. Meetings are scheduled the 3rd Monday of every Month at 7PM except January and February due to the Holidays. Sandra Pangerl City Clerk Administrator (320) 629-2736 Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 9, 2017 Notice of Annual Meeting Notice is hereby given to residents of Pine City Township, County of Pine, State of MN that the Annual Town Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 14th 2017 at the Pine City Town Hall, 21977 St. Croix Rd. The Annual Meeting will commence at 7:00 pm to conduct all necessary business as prescribed by law. In case of inclement weather, the meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 21st, 2017. Respectfully submitted, Tammy Carlson, Clerk Pine City Township Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 2 and 9, 2017 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Notice is hereby given that Pine City Public Schools, ISD 578 Requests proposals for: Group Health Insurance Specifications will be available from the District’s Agent of Record, National Insurance Services, at 14852 Scenic Heights Road, Suite 210, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, phone 800-627-3660. Proposals are due no later than 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 28, 2017 at National Insurance Services 14852 Scenic Heights Road, Suite 210, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, along with a copy to Pine City Public Schools District Office, Independent School District 578, 1400 Main Street South, Pine City, MN 55063. Published in the Pine City Pioneer on March 9 and 16, 2017

COLLEGE

Baker Silas Lee Baker was born on Feb. 10, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. He weighed six pounds, 15 ounces and was 19-3/4 inches long. His parents are Angela and Lee Baker of Ogilvie. Silas is welcomed home by siblings Anna, 16, and Joel, 11. His grandparents are Kris Krizan of Mora, Robert Baker and Patty Wagner of Stanchﬁeld.

Severson Aurora Florence Severson was born on Feb. 16, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. She weighed six pounds, seven ounces and was 19 inches long. Her parents are Bret Severson and Ashley Cavallino of Mora. Aurora is welcomed home by big sisters Rosealie and Isabelle. Her grandparents are Laura and Dale Cavallino, Nanci and Matt Novy, all of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, and Byron Severson of Black Earth, Wisconsin.

Belden Edon Jeremiah Belden was born on Feb. 16, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. He weighed 10 pounds, 15 ounces and was 22-3/4 inches long. His parents are Josh and Christina Belden of McGregor. Edon is welcomed home by siblings Gideon, 16, Daniel, 14, Awna, 13, Kaitlyn, 11, Eliyah, 9, Nathan, 7, Ava, 4. His grandparents are Shirley Trujillo of McGregor, Will and LaRae Belden.

Koski Harriet Genevieve Koski was born on March 1, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. She weighed eight pounds, eight ounces and was 20-1/2 inches long. Her parents are Brian and Shannon Koski of Mora. Harriet is welcomed home by sibling Hazel, 17 months. Her grandparents are Pat and Jill McCarthy of Hinckley, Tim and Lisa Koski of Finlayson.

Whipps Colton Bradley Whipps was born on March 1, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. He weighed six pounds, seven ounces and was 18-3/4 inches long. His parents are Zack and Kellie Whipps of Pine City. Colton is welcomed home by sibling Keegan, 2. His grandparents are Paul and Rita Hinderscheid, Tim and Jamie Whipps.

Lehman Elliott Neil Lehman was born on March 2, 2017, at FirstLight Health System. He weighed nine pounds, ﬁve ounces and was 21-1/4 inches long. His parents are Martha and Jeffrey Lehman of Hinckley. Elliott is welcomed by grandparents Norman and Ann Fravel of Bliss, Idaho, Timothy and Lucinda Lehman of Hinckley.

Graduates The following local residents have received their degree from Western Governors University (WGU). The university held its 32nd semi-annual commencement ceremony at the Disney Coronado Springs Resort in Orlando on Feb. 11 and celebrated the graduation of more than 11,000 graduates. Keith Belau of Rush City has received his Master of Science in Management and Leadership; Eric Risland of Rush City has received his Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics (5-12).

WEATHER Date 2/27 2/28 3/1 3/2 3/3 3/4 3/5

High 45° 37° 35° 26° 28° 43° 58°

Don’t miss a beat!

Low 19° 28° 23° 12° 2° 22° 33°

Precip./Snow .03"/.8" .07"/.7" 0 0 0 0 0

PINE P INE CITY

Subscribe to your local newspaper today! 405 2nd Ave SE, Pine City • 320-629-6771

MARCH 9, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

PHONE: 320-629-6771 | PHONE: 763-689-1181 ext 101 | ads@pinecitymn.com| Deadline: Monday by 4:30pm

Broken Hearted! Lost my heart pendant necklace in Pine City Walmart 02/23. Reward for return. 320-629-8045

R TE D

102 SERVICES

DRYWALL• PAINTING

-6 64

e Pin

Since 1974

406 SALES Buy & Sell Old Records Vinyl, LPs 45s,Cassettes,stereos CDs Go Johnny Go 4775 Banning Av White Bear Lake M-F 1-8 Sat 10-4 612-735-1643

it 29 ys 320-6

109 LAWN CARE Schmidt Lawn & Turf Spring clean ups, monthly mowing, irrigation start ups. 651-272-0926

154 EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING:

2 Special Education Teachers Full Time - Pine City Jr./Sr. High School

Qualifications: Minnesota Certiﬁed Special Education Teaching License. Position 1 E/BD preferred. Position 2 ASD certiﬁcate or willingness to obtain preferred. Application Deadline: 3/22/17 • Start Date: 8/23/17 Apply Online: http://www.applitrack.com/pinecity/onlineapp/

451 RENTALS COMMERCIAL Office Space Rentals Pine City. 1015 Hillside Ave SW Business Center. 900 sq. feet, $900/month plus utilities. 315 3rd Ave SE, 900 sq. feet, $500/month plus utilities. Call: 320-282-2188

452 RENTALS RESIDENTIAL PINE CITY 1-BR APT NOW AVAILABLE.

Food Service Team Members

Westchester Village, Section 8, Senior Bldg.

Apply in person at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pine City, MN

Disabled or Handicap housing age 62+.

Kentucky Fried Chicken 1280 Hillside Ave SW, Pine City, MN

HELP WANTED Smart Style in Pine City Looking for

Full Time and Part Time Stylist * Sign on Bonus, Work some nights & weekends.

Apply online at regiscorp.com

301 FARM MISC. MISC. For Sale: GEHL 135 grinder mixer, kept in shed. Asking $8,000. 320-336-9443

GET

NOTICED. Reach potential customers easily with a display ad. TO PLACE AN AD CALL OR STOP IN! Pine City Pioneer 320-629-6771 OR GO TO www.pinecitymn.com

Join The Tobies Team!

PINE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAS THE FOLLOWING OPENINGS:

Seasonal Employment Opportunities

WALLPAPERING & REMOVAL

CASH FOR CARS. Wanted junk or repairable vehicles. Call Dave at 612-963-4621

Call Shirley at

320-629-7161 for apt.

502 4 SALE BY OWNER For Sale: Golden Technology mobility scooter, brand new. Original price $1,200, selling for $800. Contact Lindsey 763-300-2207

506

REAL ESTATE

I'm looking to buy a lake home in Pine City. Please call 612-804-8243 with selling details. Pre-Approved buyer looking for lake property. Contact Mary Beck Realtor, Realty Executives Top Results 651-428-5108, realtormarybeck@gmail.com

You’ve Got It!

Somebody Wants It! Sell it in the classiﬁeds 320-679-2661 or 320-629-6771

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BARISTA Experience Preferred Year round – Variable Hours Weekends & Evenings Required Competitive Wages Plus Tips Beneﬁts may include vacation pay, employee discounts, proﬁt sharing, medical, dental, vision, life & Flex Plans. References required with our application.

We are Looking for Energetic, Positive, Outgoing, Self-motivated Individuals! Applications available at Tobies To Station & Tobies Restaurant Hinckley, MN 3320-384-6174 or www.tobies.com

The City of Pine City is accepting applications for seasonal employees for the following position:

LIQUOR STORE CASHIERS These positions will be Sunday through Saturday and will consist of varying hours. Employees must be 21 years old. Applications are required and can be obtained at City Hall, 315 Main St. S, Suite 100, Pine City, on the Pine City website or by calling 320-629-2575. The application deadline is 4:00 pm on March 20, 2017. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

We are seeking OTR and Regional Class A CDL Van Driver and Flatbed Driver Commercial Transload Based in Fridley, MN of Minnesota • Excellent Health Care Highlights: • $4,000 Sign-on Bonus. Benefits, food and clothing allowance. • Drivers are allowed to take their trucks home. • We can accommodate • We run 2014 and newer one small pet. trucks. The company runs paper logs with an excellent safety record.

Compensation: After probationary period we offer full benefits including driver paid health insurance and/or low cost family health insurance, food and clothing allowance. All breakdown time is paid on an hourly basis and driving will be pay based on percentage of load. A salary review is completed after 125 days and the first year with the potential for salary increases.

Requirements: • Must have a CDL A license, prefer one year of experience. Will consider military driving experience and new CDL drivers! • Must be able to pass a background check and full physical. Contact Pete: 763-571-9508 or psandmann@ctm-truck.com

THIS SPACE RESERVED FOR YOUR AD GENERAL MAINTENANCE WORKER POSITION The City of Pine City is seeking applicants for the position of Public Works 2--General Maintenance Worker.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS ARE: * High School diploma or equivalent. * Class B Commercial Driver’s License with an air brake endorsement. * Minimum of two years of Public Works or Construction experience is desirable. * Ability to stand, bend, crouch, and stoop repetitively for long periods of time. * Ability to lift, carry and handle equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. on a repetitive basis and up to 80 lbs. occasionally. * Ability to read, hear and speak English. * Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions. Beginning salary is $15.42 per hour plus a full beneﬁt package. After the six month probationary period the wages would go to $15.85 per hour. Applications are required and can be obtained at City Hall, 315 Main St. S, Suite 100, Pine City, or by calling 320-629-2575. The application deadline is 4:00 pm on March 30, 2017. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Northwire, Inc. is looking for great people to join our production team.

Seasonal Employment Opportunities

Full-time positions available in the following areas: • Extrusion (2nd shift) starting wage is $14.50 • Braiding (2nd and 3rd shifts) starting wage is $13.00 and $13.50 • Cabling (2nd and 3rd shifts) starting wage is $13.00 and $13.50 • Maintenance Technician II (2nd shift) starting wage is $17.60 Note: all starting wages include shift premium

The City of Pine City is accepting applications for seasonal employees for the following position:

Northwire, Inc. offers a complete benefits package: health insurance (medical, dental & vision), vacation, paid holidays, 401(k) with employer match, disability and life insurance.

General Maintenance Workers Gardener

Basic Qualifications: High school diploma/GED or higher. Maintenance Technician II requires work experience and/or applicable education.

These positions will be Sunday through Saturday and will consist of varying hours. Employees must be 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.

Qualified applicants must pass a drug test, background screen and preemployment physical exam. If you are interested in working with us, apply in person or send resume to Northwire, Inc., 110 Prospect Way, Osceola, WI 54020 or email to HumanResources_Northwire@lemo.com. Online applications are also available at www.northwire.com/careers.

Lifeguards Water Safety Instructors (WSI)

Northwire is an Equal Opportunity Employer

These positions will be Sunday through Saturday and will consist of varying hours. To be a Lifeguard you must be at least 15 years old and be a Certiﬁed Red Cross Lifeguard. To be a Water Safety Instructor you must be at least 16 years old and be a Certiﬁed Red Cross Lifeguard.

Where those in the know go Sell your stuff quickly in the Classiﬁeds. It’s simply the best way!

Applications are required and can be obtained at City Hall, 315 Main St. S, Suite 100, Pine City, on the Pine City website or by calling 320-629-2575. The application deadline is 4:00 pm on March 30, 2017.

TO PLACE AN AD, STOP IN AT THE PINE CITY PIONEER OR CALL 320-629-6771 OR GO TO

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

EMAIL CLASSIFIEDS TO

www.pinecitymn.com CLICK ON CLASSIFIEDS, PLACE AN AD

ads@pinecitymn.com Cabins & Garages

Weekly • Bi-Weekly Monthly • One Time

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369 WANTED

16 LOST & FOUND

Applications now being accepted for:

CASHIER BAKER BUSSER Experience Preferred Year round – Variable Hours Weekends & Evenings Required Competitive Wages Plus Tips Benefits may include vacation pay, employee discounts, profit sharing, medical, dental, vision, life & Flex Plans. References required with our application.

We are Looking for Energetic, Positive, Outgoing, Self-motivated Individuals! Applications available at Tobies Restaurant, Hinckley, MN 320-384-6174 or www.tobies.com

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BARB

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PARKER HANNIFIN CORPORATION CNC SET-UP OPERATOR AND/OR AUTOMATIC ACME SET-UP OPERATOR Parker Hanni¿n - a World Class Motion and Control Manufacturing Company has an immediate need for a full-time CNC and/or Automatics Set-up Operators. Position will be on 2nd shift – hours will be 5 – 8 hour days (from 3:00 pm–11:30 pm) or 4 – 10 hour days (from 3:00 p.m.–1:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday) also has a Àexible work environment. This position is in our Grantsburg, Wisconsin facility at 533 N Oak Street, Grantsburg, WI 54840. Essential Functions: • Set-up and operate CNC and/or Acme Gridley Automatics Screw Machines • Recording production counts, performing part inspections as required • Knowledge of blueprint reading • Understanding of cutting tools, their geometry and behavior • Experience with the tools required for mechanical inspection (calipers, height gauges, pin gauges, rules, and micrometers) • Strong working knowledge of various quality and inspection requirements, manufacturing processes, and measurement techniques Requirements: • Personable • Good Verbal and Written Communication skills • Good dexterity • Attention to detail through visual inspection • Excellent attendance • Technical Program Degree or High School Diploma/GED with a minimum of 2 years’ experience Physical Requirements: • Required to stand most of the time • Required to lift to 50 pounds Work Environment: • Required to work with coolants and/or cutting oil • Medium noise level. Parker Hanni¿n is a Fortune 500 Company and a worldwide leader in the manufacture of motion and control. We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary, quarterly pro¿t sharing plan, 401(k) plan with match, pension plan, as well as Àexible medical, dental, vision, and life insurance bene¿ts. Apply thru www.parker.com under careers. Parker Hanni¿n is an EEO/AA Employer/ Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

PINE CITY PIONEER

MARCH 9, 2017

Meet Emily.

Emily is practicing for her one-year wellness exam. During each child wellness exam, a FirstLight provider reviews your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical history, recommends appropriate preventative screenings and immunizations, assesses oral health, along with developmental and behavioral milestones, to ensure your child is achieving all of his or her potential. Visits are recommended annually from birth through age 20, and are typically covered by insurance. Our Family Practice providers offer appointments available in Mora, Pine City and Hinckley.

Call FirstLight at 800-245-5671 today.

MORA | PINE CITY | HINCKLEY

FirstLightHealthSystem.org