Pioneer e-edition Dec. 10, 2015 by Pine City Pioneer

PINE CITY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2015 VOL. 130 NO. 50 www.pinecitymn.com $1.00

WORKING FOR SANTA: Pine City kids respond to Santa’s ‘Help Wanted’ ad. P17

City levy up 3.74% BY HENRY FISCHER NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Pine City Council listened to property owners and reduced its 2016 levy to an effective increase of 3.74 percent. At last week’s truth in taxation public hearing, several residents voiced concerns about sharp increases in the total levy figures on their preliminary 2016 property tax notices, thanks, in part, to higher real estate values. Mark Nisley, a former Pine City

Council member, said his total property tax bill (including city, county and school district levies) is going up 30 percent, not including improvements to his property. “What you’re doing here does have an effect,” Nisley said, encouraging city officials to do everything they can to minimize the financial impact on property taxpayers. Council Member Brian Scholin pointed out that if property values stayed the same during the past SEE CITY, PAGE 13

Man sought in Kwik Trip theft STAFF REPORT NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

Rudolph is one really tall reindeer! Pine City’s Dec. 7 Christmas Carol parade was full of music, lights, and one enormous reindeer courtesy of Jeff’s Outdoor Services. More parade and Holiday Madness photos on Page 28.

The Pine County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying a man involved in a Dec. 4 theft from the new Hinckley Kwik Trip. According to a news release from the Pine County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect was involved in a theft from the Kwik Trip store office in Hinckley at around 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4. As seen in the photo released by the sheriff’s office, the suspect is a white male with short brown hair, and was wearing a black hooded jacket and green baseball cap at the scene of the crime. Any member of the public recognizing this man is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 320-629-8380.

PHOTO PROVIDED

The suspect was photographed leaving the Kwik Trip on Dec. 4 after the theft occurred.

Christmas lights come up in Pine City BY JOSH PALMER NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

Even from inside their house near the Pine City Country Club, Brian Trantanella and his son Elwood know exactly when their hard work pays off: the lights come up. For the first time, Brian and Elwood (or “Woody,” as he likes to be called) displayed colorful lights and decorations across the front of their house in order to celebrate and stimulate Christmas spirit.

While a common practice for many Pine City families, the lighting of the lawn marked the beginning of a new tradition for the Trantanellas. “My bride-to-be said that she wanted Christmas lights,” said the elder Trantanella. “I told her it might take a while, but we’re going to catch up to the Griswolds.” Being that it was their first year setting up Christmas lights, he wasn’t about to purchase

Opportunity Knocked and I MOVED!!!

JOSH PALMER | THE PIONEER

SEE LIGHTS, PAGE 13

Laser displays have joined traditional Christmas lights in Pine City.

I am GRATEFUL....

I am GRATEFUL for every client that calls me and asks for my representation I am GRATEFUL for the trust and loyalty you give to me. I am GRATEFUL for your business and your many kind referrals.

THANK YOU! MERRY CHRISTMAS - AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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DECEMBER 10, 2015

Man armed Long search continues for Christle, Kleppen with sawedoff shotgun robs Mora BP BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

None injured in Dec. 1 robbery, but suspect still remains at large STAFF REPORT NEWS@MORAMINN.COM

A robber armed with a sawed off shotgun stole cash from the Mora BP gas station at approximately 8:30 p.m. Dec. 1. The clerk was the only person in the store at the time and was not injured. The suspect is still at large. The Kanabec County Sheriff’s Office described the man as a lone, masked white male. Sheriff Brian Smith said it would be unlikely for the suspect to target another business in the area, but not impossible. Smith said it was reassuring to him that the suspect acted rationally and did not appear to be particularly violent, out of control or under the influence of drugs. Officers are currently following up on several leads. The Kanabec County Sheriff’s Office will not be releasing surveillance images of the suspect to the public at this particular point in time; doing so has the potential to harm the investigation. Smith emphasized the importance of keeping vigilant and encouraged the community to be on the lookout for suspicious activity now and throughout the year. “If you see something that’s out of place, give us a call,” he encouraged. The Kanabec County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at 320-679-8400.

Law enforcement and the families of Cody Christle and Kenneth Scott Kleppen continue to seek information on the whereabouts of the two long-missing men. Neither Christle nor Kleppen has been seen since they were last spotted in Pine County.

CODY CHRISTLE On May 12, 2014 at about 1 p.m., Cody Christle, then 20 years old, left the house of a friend on the west side of Hinckley. He was on foot. He has not been seen since. Christle is five feet, six inches tall and weighs 150 pounds. He was wearing an orange baseball cap and a brown jacket at the time of his disappearance. Christle, who received a heart transplant as a twomonth-old, must take anti-rejection medicine every day to remain healthy. He has not had access to his medication since the time of his disappearance. Christle’s family describes him as a social young man who loves George Strait, and a good-hearted person who tries to help other people out if he can. The long search has been deeply difficult

for those who love Christle. “This is like a bad dream that you never wake up from and never ends,” said one family member. Christle’s family has offered a $1,000 reward for information which helps them find their loved one. Pine County Sheriff Jeff Nelson said deputies were planning another search for Christle just a few weeks ago, but it was prevented by a rainstorm. “We’re still looking into leads [and] searching for areas that are of interest,” Nelson said. “It is still in our minds, and it is still something we would love to get finalized – for the family, and for our own knowledge of what happened.” Those with information on Christle’s disappearance or whereabouts are asked to contact the Pine County Sheriff’s Office at 320-629-8380. Callers may also leave a message on the Pine County Sheriff’s Office anonymous Tip Line at 320-629-8342. KENNETH SCOTT KLEPPEN Kenneth Scott Kleppen, age 22, of Sandstone was last seen in Pine City on March 3 of this year. His vehicle, a red 2005 Ford F150 extended cab pickup was found in Sandstone’s Robinson Park

PHOTO PROVIDED

Cody Christle has been missing since May 12, 2014.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Scott Kleppen has been missing since March 3, 2015.

on March 10. According to a report on Fox 9 News, Kleppen had lost his job, and had left a note for his family about finding happiness before disappearing. Kleppen is approximately six foot, two inches tall and 250 pounds. He is described as having dark blonde hair and blue eyes, and has a piercing in his lower lip on the left side. He was last seen wearing an olive green canvas jacket, blue jeans and a brown-and-tan plaid flannel shirt.

Several searches of the Robinson Park area were conducted in March but Kleppen was not located. Nelson said his office has not received any new information that would cause them to expand their search from the Robinson Park area. On Nov. 8, Kleppen’s mother, Kim Opsahl, wrote a heartfelt message on the “Hand-inhand search for Scott Kleppen” page on Facebook. “Scott has been missing now for over eight months,”

Opsahl wrote. “Although a search was conducted back in March the family still have no answers or clues. Please help us reignite awareness that Scott is missing .... We appreciate your continuous support. Hope, Love and Prayers for Scott’s safe return home.” Anyone with information on Kleppen’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Pine County Sheriff’s Office at 320-629-8380 or the anonymous Tip Line at 320-629-8342.

Early Deadline Notice

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WWW.PINECITYMN.COM

Due to the holidays, deadlines are as follows: For the Kanabec County Times and the Pine City Pioneer Dec. 24 issue will be Dec. 18 at noon & the Dec. 31 issue will be Dec. 28 at noon.

For the Advertiser Dec. 27 issue will be Dec. 21 at 5 p.m. & the Jan. 3 issue will be Dec. 29 at noon.

& DECEMBER 10, 2015

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

DEC. 10 & 15 Elementary School concerts The winter concert for the elementary 5th and 6th grade band will take place on Thursday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m., and the elementary school choir concert is Tuesday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m., both in the Pine City Elementary School Auditorium.

DEC. 11 Lorie Line ‘s ‘Christmas in the City’ On Friday, Dec. 11, Minnesota music icon Lorie Line will perform her “Christmas in the City” concert at the Pine City High School Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Line got her start serenading shoppers at the piano for Dayton’s department stores. Since then she has produced three television specials for PBS and performed for dignitaries including two U.S. presidents at the White House. For tickets or information call 800-801-5463 or visit www.lorieline.com.

DEC. 11 & 12 ECMC and Unum Vox Holiday Concerts The East Central Minnesota Chorale and Unum Vox will be presenting their annual Holiday Concerts on Friday, Dec. 11 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Princeton at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12 at Grace Lutheran Church in Mora at 2 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church in Cambridge. Joining the chorale will be the EC3HO children’s choir under the direction of Shirley Geib. Advanced tickets are available from any ECMC or Unum Vox member. Tickets will also be available at the door. Children under 12 are free. Email renee. king2@me.com for additional information.

Festival of Music at Zion Lutheran

ORLC Christmas Cantata

The public is invited to attend a free, Community Festival of Music for Christmas at Zion Lutheran Church, Pine City, on Saturday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. Featuring organist Dr. Jeff Burkart of Concordia University, the Pine City Community Choir, as well as other local groups and performers, refreshments will be served and Christmas carols will be sung by all. Call 320-6293683 with any questions.

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church will be presenting a Christmas Cantata during its services on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. The cantata will be performed by Our Redeemer’s Choir, with Jennifer Krinke directing. Email jenkrinke@gmail.com with any questions.

Book signing with local author Local author Nathan Johnson will be signing copies of his books, “Images of America: Pine City,” and “Legendary Locals of Pine City,” on Saturday, Dec. 12, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Cabin Coffee’s, Pine City.

DEC. 12 & 13 Free Holiday movies in Paradise The Paradise Theatre in Mora will present a free showing of the movie “Pan” on Saturday, Dec. 12, and “Goosebumps” on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 1 p.m. both days. Call 320-679-3964 or visit www.paradise-theatre.com for more information.

Carnivore tracking and wolf ecology at Crex Meadows Sign up for a carnivore tracking workshop at Crex Meadows in Grantsburg, Wisconsin from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12. Learn tracking skills, identification and interpreting gait. Then, reserve lodging at Luther Point Bible Camp (715-689-2347 or email info@lutherpoint.org) and return to Crex Meadows on Sunday, Dec. 13, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for a wolf ecology workshop. Learn about wolf history, biology and monitoring techniques. Call 715-463-2739 or visit www. crexmeadows.org for details or reservations.

DEC. 13

Henriette Ham Bingo

Lions Christmas fruit bags The Pine City Lions Club will be delivering Christmas fruit bags to all senior citizens residing in Pine City on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 320-629-8223 or email rthompson@minpack.com with any questions.

Outdoor Live Nativity Immanuel Lutheran Church of Brunswick is performing a live outdoor nativity with a freewill offering chili and soup supper on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The church is located six miles south of Mora on Hwy. 65, at 2088 Hwy. 70. Call 320-679-2015 for information.

Pine City

‘Birthday Party for Jesus’ Hands for Pine City Church invites the public to a “Birthday Party for Jesus” at the Pine City Pizza Pub on Sunday, Dec. 13 from 5-7 p.m. There will be pizza and birthday cake for each donation of a new, unwrapped toy or monetary gift for Toys for Tots. For more information call 320-496-3009 or email Hands4PC@gmail.com.

‘A Grand Grad Chrismas’ The public is invited to the winter concert of the East Central Minnesota Grad Band. The concert will be held on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 2 p.m. at the Cambridge Middle School, 31374 Xylite Street NE. The theme for the band’s winter concert is “A Grand Grad Christmas.” Cider and cookies will be served. Admission is by free-will donation. Call 763-689-5388 or email JohnWheelock@Windstream.net for more information.

525 Main St. Pine City • 320-629-2021

AMERICAN LEGION POST #51 Open to the Public

JOIN US! Saturday Dec. 19 starting at 8pm

UGLY SWEATER CONTEST DRINK SPECIALS

CASH PRIZES FOR UGLIEST SWEATERS

KARAOKE

Club (SRVCC) will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., at the Pine City VFW building. Contact Mark Madison at mdmadison52@gmail.com with any questions.

DEC. 17 Ruby’s Pantry The Ruby’s Pantry food distribution, normally the fourth Thursday of each month, will have a special distribution date of Thursday, Dec. 17 at the Armory in Pine City from 5 - 6:30 p.m. For more information call 651-674-0009 or visit www.rubyspantry.org.

DEC. 18 Letters from Santa

PFLAG Meeting

DEC. 12 Ham Bingo will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2 p.m., at Ryder’s Bar & Grill in Henriette. Sponsored by the Henriette Improvement Association, all proceeds go toward community projects.

Open skating/open hockey On Sunday, Dec. 13 there is open skating at 6 p.m., followed by youth open hockey at 7:15 p.m. and adult open hockey at 8:30 p.m. at the Pine City Civic Center. Call 320-629-6995 for cost or more information, or visit www.pinecityciviccenter. weebly.com.

PINE CITY PIONEER

The next meeting of the East Central Minnesota Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays will be held Sunday, Dec. 13, 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 320-3963128; 320-272-0069; or 763-5520084 with any questions, or visit ecmnpflag.org.

Get a personalized letter from Santa mailed to a loved one through the Braham Area Girl Scouts, 400 Circle Drive, Braham, MN 55006. Send your name or relationship to the recipient, the recipient’s name, favorite activity, desired gift, home town, and full address where the Santa letter will be sent. The deadline for letter requests is Friday, Dec. 18. Proceeds benefit the Braham Area Girl Scouts. For cost or other questions, call 320-396-3628.

DEC. 14

DEC. 19

Blood drive at the Legion

PCftA Snowﬂake Gallery

There will be a Memorial Blood Centers blood drive on Monday, Dec. 14, from 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Pine City American Legion Post 51. All donors who give blood in December will be entered into a drawing to win a Polaris ATV. For more information or to sign up to donate, call 1-888-GIVE-BLD or visit www.MBC.org.

The Pine Center for the Arts Snowflake Gallery on 5th Street in downtown Pine City will continue to be open through Saturday, Dec. 19. This special gallery collection has unique items from past gallery artists, as well as local artists, just in time for the holiday shopping season. Items include jewelry, artwork, pottery, baskets and more. Call 320-629-4924 or become a fan on Facebook for updates on hours.

Women’s Christian Connection Celebrate Christmas with music at the Women’s Christian Connection on Monday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m., in Tobies’ Big Kettle Room in Hinckley. Music will be provided by Amanda Monson of Hinckley. Special feature guest will be LoAnn Westerman, representative of WINDOW of Hinckley. In the spirit of giving, ladies are encouraged to bring items that can be shared with the women/families of WINDOW, such as paper plates, napkins, bottled water, baby wipes, diapers – sizes 2, 4, 5. Guest speaker Karen Taucher describes herself as having been a successful but love starved woman who experienced an ultimate makeover through a caring friend. Reservations may be made by calling 320-384-6413 or 320-245-2783; walk-ins are also welcome.

DEC. 16 SRVCC meeting The next meeting of the Snake River Valley Conservation

Thieman fundraiser beneﬁt Longtime resident of Pine City, Marie Thieman has been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. A soup/sandwich/salad fundraiser to help with medical expenses will take place on Saturday, Dec. 19, 1:30-6 p.m., at the Pine City American Legion. There will be a silent auction, bake sale, raffles and kids’ activities. For information or to make a donation, call Sandy: 320-282-3110; Sue: 320-405-9275; or Buck: 320-224-7618.

Golden Horizons coloring contest Kids ages 3-12 are invited to stop in at Golden Horizons Assisted Living in Pine City to pick up a coloring sheet and participate in a contest. There will be three age categories and prizes will be awarded. Winners will be picked by residents of Golden Horizons. Coloring sheet must be turned in by Saturday, Dec. 19. Call 320-629-7272 with any questions.

HAM

BINGO Sat., Dec. 12, 2 2pm m At Ryders Bar & Grill, Henriette Sponsored by Henriette Improvement Assoc. ALL PROCEEDS GO BACK TO COMMUNITY PROJECTS.

MEETINGS THURSDAY 12/10 TOPS-Take Off Pounds Sensibly: Pine City Library Community Room, 4:30-5:30 p.m. VFW Auxiliary: Pine City, VFW Post #4258, 6:30 p.m. NAMI peer support: Cambridge Medical Ctr., 6:30 p.m. Teen AA/NA: 6:30 p.m., Teen Focus Center, Rush City Al-Anon: 7:30 p.m., Pine City, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church SUNDAY 12/13 AA (Big Book study): Evangelical Free Church, 7 p.m. Pine City Civic Center Board: Pine City ALC building, 8 p.m. MONDAY 12/14 Celebrate Recovery: Pine City, Journey North Church, 6 p.m. AA: 7:30 p.m., Our Redeemer Lutheran Church TUESDAY 12/15 Pine County Board: Pine City, Pine County Courthouse, 10 a.m. Pine City VFW: Pine City, VFW Post #4258, 7:30 p.m. WEDNESDAY 12/16 Woodcarving club: Askov, 9 a.m. Pine Co. History Museum Focus on Ability: 1:30 p.m., Chisago Co. Snr. Ctr., North Branch AA: 8 p.m., Rock Creek Community Center

SENIOR DINING Dec. 14 - 18 Monday: Western chili, Italian lettuce salad, honey glazed corn bread, pudding Tuesday: Deviled pork chop, baked potato with sour cream, steamed broccoli, wheat bread, lemon chiffon Wednesday: Roast beef with horseradish, whipped potatoes with gravy, Scandinavian blend vegetables, wheat bread, fresh fruit Thursday: Honey glazed ham, cranberry garnish, sweet potato casserole, country trio vegetables, dinner roll, red velvet cake Friday: Chicken a la king, baking powder biscuit, peas and carrots, orange wedges, gelatin 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.

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PINE CITY PIONEER

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DECEMBER 10, 2015

Latest state budget forecast brings $1.8b in holiday cheer

With the holiday season upon us, state economists recently delivered news that gave all state lawmakers good cheer: Minnesota is expected to see a projected $1.871 billion surplus for the 2016-17 budget cycle. The easy answer as to why we have this surplus is due to less than expected state spending and greater than expected overall tax collections. To be clear, thinking lawmakers have to account for $1.871 billion next year is a bit of an exaggeration. By State law, roughly one-third of that projection – $594 milHouse lion – will be sent to Minnesota’s budget reserves. This Jason means Minnesota’s overall reserve level increases to Rarick nearly $1.597 billion. Subtract some state payments that are also required by law, and the projected surplus allocation is actually closer to $1.2 billion. So what do we do with this surplus? There really are only two answers: spend it or find ways to provide tax relief to hardworking Minnesotans. With state budget spending already slated Technology is reshaping the ways we live, work, play, at $42 billion for the two year budget cycle, and communicate. The internet is connecting communiit’s my opinion that the Legislature should ties and creating opportunities we couldn’t have imagnot go on a wild spending spree. Any surplus ined even a few decades ago. Today, you don’t need to live results from an over-collection of revenue off an interstate highway or in a major city to find a good from our state’s taxpayers, and this one is no job, launch a new business, or take colexception. With a projected $1.2 billion waitlege classes. But without a reliable highing to be allocated, it’s critical that we find speed internet connection, your options ways to provide tax relief to the people who can be limited. In the 1930s, our country gave state government this surplus. brought electricity and telephone serLawmakers will return to the State Capivice to communities from coast to coast. tol for session in March. When we do, there In order to compete in today’s global are two topics that must be addressed. The economy, we need to make that same first is long-term funding for our roads and commitment to connecting all Minnebridges. You’ll recall the Minnesota House sotans with high-speed broadband inapproved legislation in 2015 that would proAmy Klobuchar U.S. ternet. vide nearly $7 billion to statewide road and I have seen firsthand the benefits that bridge needs without raising anyone’s taxes. Senator broadband has delivered, as well as the It’s my hope that we’ll revisit this plan next Amy challenges faced by communities where session and pass it into law. broadband hasn’t reached. I recently The second is tax relief for hardworking Klobuchar had the opportunity to visit Pine TechMinnesotans. Just because we have a surnical and Community College in Pine plus does not mean lawmakers should spend County and learn that the school has expanded the numit recklessly. If anything, it proves the time ber of hours each day the computer lab is open. Why? is right to put more money in the pockets of Because most students have no option except a slow diMinnesotans. al-up connection at home, making online research very hard—especially for students facing midterm deadlines. Students aren’t the only ones facing challenges. A farm equipment company in Willmar called Haug Implement flies its equipment over a farmer’s fields to capture aerial imagery, and then the farmer uses the information provided to make decisions about how to improve their crops. When those farmers can’t download this information efficiently, it limits Haug’s ability to grow its business. Haug employees told me that they often encourage their customers to bring their laptops to the closest

Build 21st century broadband system across rural Minnesota

PINE CITY

restaurant or coffee shop because many farmers don’t have access to a reliable internet connection at home. Our farmers shouldn’t have to order a hamburger to meet the demands of their businesses. In communities that have prioritized investments in broadband, we’re seeing life-changing results. Essentia Clinics in Virginia and Aurora have begun connecting patients with health services through the internet, and instead of spending hours traveling by car, people who need to see a doctor can now head to the local clinic and, with the click of a mouse, find themselves face-to-face with specialists from around the state. From delivering behavioral health services to providing specialized kidney treatments, healthcare professionals on the Iron Range are leveraging new technology and high-speed internet to improve their patients’ lives. These examples illustrate the stark “digital divide” we’ve seen emerge in Minnesota across the country. While 97 percent of Anoka County homes enjoy access to high-speed internet, less than one percent of the homes SEE BROADBAND, PAGE 5

The Pioneer will

Annette Krist • Publisher Wade Weber • Operations Manager Mike Gainor• Editor Sharon Fore • Account Executive

“Your Best Source for Community Information” www.pinecitymn.com POSTMASTER: Please send 3579 to Pine City Pioneer 405 2nd Ave. SE Pine City, MN 55063-1504 320-629-6771 Fax: 320-629-6772 Email: editor@pinecitymn.com

‘ I recently had the opportunity to visit Pine Technical and Community College in Pine County and learn that the school has expanded the number of hours each day the computer lab is open. Why? Because most students have no option except a slow dial-up connection at home.’

The Pine City Pioneer (USPS 433-160) is published for $34 per year and delivered weekly by Northstar Media, LLC., 405 2nd Ave. SE, Pine City MN 55063-1504. Periodicals postage paid at Pine City, MN 55063. Outside Pine County add $9 yearly to subscription cost.

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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

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.

OPINION

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

BROADBAND: Don’t let Minnesota economy fall behind in broadband access FROM PAGE 4

further north in Aitkin County have the same broadband access. There are commonsense ways we can increase broadband access. The first is with funding. The federal government recently awarded more than $85 million to Minnesota for rural broadband deployment. This will help connect more than 170,000 Minnesota homes and businesses to high-speed internet. Second, I am leading a bipartisan effort with Republican Senator John Thune of South Dakota in calling on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to modernize its support for rural broadband services to better fit the needs of consumers. Currently, support is tied to traditional telephone service. This means consumers with a package of telephone and broadband service can receive support, but those with standalone broadband subscriptions are not eligible. These outdated rules create a needless link between customers signing up for services they may not want, or need, and broadband deployment. Senator Thune and I have been calling on the FCC to update these rules, including leading a bipar-

tisan letter this spring urging the FCC to ensure rural consumers can have access to affordable broadband services without being compelled to purchase other services. I am also leading a bipartisan bill to reduce the costs of building broadband infrastructure. My legislation would require states and federal agencies to coordinate highway construction with broadband installation – in other words, that they only “dig once” and lay the groundwork for broadband when building or expanding roads. The bill would also cut red tape for companies, states, and local governments that want to install broadband infrastructure on federal land. I also introduced legislation that would provide incentives for wireless carriers to lease unused spectrum to rural or smaller carriers in order to expand wireless coverage in rural communities. Minnesota has a strong economy. To keep it strong it’s critical that we connect all Minnesotans so they can take advantage of the opportunities that come from being able to quickly reach people across town, the state, and the globe.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Real estate fees are a scam To the Editor: About the mid 1970s, real estate companies in Minneapolis worked together to keep the real estate fee at seven percent or higher. This was price fixing. They were taken to court and lost the suit. They were ordered to reimburse the affected parties. During the last few years, many real estate companies are trying a different trick. The commission on a $180,000 home at six percent is $10,800. It seemed this was not enough profit for them. They started charging a fee of $200 $400 each from the buyer and the seller. I believe they do not know themselves what the fee should be called. I was told by real estate people it was to pay for the storage of your papers for five years. Another reason given me was to pay for office personnel. I sold a home approximately 1-1/2 years ago and beside the six percent commission, I was charged a fee of $395. I asked what that was about. I was not told a reason for the fee except

that all the realtors are doing it. If you ask 10 different realtors what the fee is for, you will probably get 10 different answers. On my closing statement, it was called an administration fee. People hire realtors because people are unfamiliar with the laws and forms used. A closing statement is loaded with different fees. The real estate companies know the people are overwhelmed and unfamiliar with numerous fees. They are made to believe this fee is part of the business of selling a home. They try to have you sign a statement that you will pay that fee. Be careful of what you sign and if you see the fee in the statement, refuse to pay it. I am sending a copy of this letter to every state representative and senator, hoping they can stop this scam and possibly have real estate companies reimburse the affected parties. James Kvam Pine City

CORRECTION A name in the Student Achiever section in last week’s Pine City Pioneer was listed incorrectly. The student’s correct name is Paige Anderson.

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Roast & Vegetables

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CHRIS’ FOOD CENTER (320) 629-2589 1035 Main St S, Pine City Ad Prices Eﬀective Dec. 7- Dec. 13

MON.

TUES.

WED. THURS.

FRI.

SAT.

SUN.

10 11 12 13

HOLIDAY SAMPLING EVENT

THURS. DEC. 10 OH! FUDGE MADE FRESH LOCALLY FROM RUSH CITY STARTS  11AM

FRI. DEC. 11 STOKKE’S PIZZA STARTS  11AM SAT. DEC. 12 CHICKEN ENCHILADA DIPSTARTS  9AM

HUGE 3 DAY SALE THURS. DEC. 10  SAT. DEC. 12 USDA CHOICE

BONELESS BEEF TOP ROUND STEAK

$ 79

SHURFINE

SODA

4 $

10 3 $ 99 $ 99 1 2 lb.

OCEAN SPRAY

CRANBERRIES

FOR

12 pack, 12 oz. cans

FRESH

BLUEBERRIES

6oz. package

12 oz. bag

SHURFINE FROZEN PIES

2 $

FOR

22-24 oz . package

SHURFINE WHIPPED TOPPING

8oz. tub

TUES - Senior Citizens Day

CHECK OUT DASH FOR CASH Chance to win $100, $500, $1,000 * See store for Details* MONDAY-SATURDAY 7am-9pm • SUNDAY 8am-8pm

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015

FOOTBALL FEVER Play and Win $40 Cash Every Week! Contest Rules

A. TAMPA BAY B. ST. LOUIS

1. To enter, clip entry form and choose the team you think will win from the games listed in each ad. 2. Bring your completed entry form, or mail it to

Pine City Pioneer Football Contest, 405 2nd Ave. SE, Pine City, MN 55063 or e-mail to footballfever@pinecitymn.com

Pro IV Realty

Your Coldwell Banker Ofﬁce Serving East Central MN with ofﬁces in RUSH CITY & CAMBRIDGE Rush City Cambridge 320-358-0822 763-689-2110 Owned & Managed by Janet Wiener & Dave Chimel

realhomepro.com

ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED OR POSTMARKED BY MONDAY EACH WEEK. (Could be changed due to holidays)

A. NY JETS B. DALLAS

A-1 Schultz’s Service Center

3. Employees of Pine City Pioneer are not eligible to win. 4. The entry with the most games picked correctly will be the winner. In the event of a tie, winner will be determined by random drawing.

755 Main St South • Pine City

Service & Repair • Diagnostic • Oil Changes • AC • Brake Jobs • Tires • Suspension • Shocks

5. Winner will be notified by phone. 320-629-0146

RUSH CITY VFW LOUNGE POST #6692

320-358-3114 JOIN US DURING THE HOLIDAYS! CHRISTMAS EVE Tom & Jerrys

OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY  NOON

WEEKLY SPECIALS

A. KANSAS CITY B. BALTIMORE

3206290123

GET YOUR VEHICLE READY FOR FALL/WINTER

OFF

COOLANT FLUSH

NOW THRU 12/31/15

A. HOUSTON B. INDIANAPOLIS

AMERICAN LEGION POST #51

525 Main Street North • Pine City, MN • 320-629-2021 OPEN TO THE PUBLIC r Pot Luck o J in us fo & Drink Y A D N SU Specials! ! L L A

B FOOTDAILY SPECIALS

HAPPY HOUR EVERYDAY FROM Mon.-Fri. 11am-12pm Mon.-Sun. 4:30pm-6:30pm Friday Nights - All-U-Can-Eat Fish 5-9pm

A. ATLANTA B. JACKSONVILLE

MONDAYS- $2 Rails • TUESDAYS- $2 Tacos WEDNESDAYS- Meat Raﬄe @ 5:30pm, VIP Drawing @ 6pm THURSDAYS- $2.50 Bottle Beer • FRIDAYS- Happy Hour Noon-6pm SATURDAYS- Meat Raﬄe@ 3pm • SUNDAYS $2.00 Screwdrivers

RUSH CITY VFW LOUNGE

45 S. ALGER AVE, RUSH CITY, MN

Hours: Mon- Fri Noon-1am, Sat.& Sun. 11am-Midnight 45 S Alger Ave, Rush City MN

POST #6692 320-358-3114

Happy Hour During Game and Jello Shots for Vikings Touchdown!

CONTEST

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

Pick the winners for games played on Dec. 17, 19, 20 & 21

Advertiser Ad ti

1. Coldwell Banker Pro IV Realty 2. A-1 Schultz’s Service Center 3. Campbell Auto and Tire 4. American Legion- Pine City 5. Rush City VFW Lounge 6. Berchin’s A&W All-American Food 7. Voyageur Bottle Shop 8. Tobie’s Tavern 9. Northwoods Bank 10. Agstar Financial Services 11. Chubby’s Sports Bar & Grill 12. Phase Furnishings 13. Pine Insurance Agency 14. Firehouse Liquor 15. Coldwell Banker Results 16. Rock Creek Pit Stop 17. Stearns Bank

Wi Winner

A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A( A(

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B( B(

) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) ) )

Congrats to

Drop off or e-mail footballfever@pinecitymn.com at Pine City Pioneer by 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 14 or postmarked by Dec. 14.

m the our winner fro last week

Name _________________________________ Phone ________________________________ A. CHICAGO B. MINNESOTA

A. TENNESSEE B. NEW ENGLAND

Berchin's

VOYAGEUR BOTTLE SHOP KEGS AVAILABLE 16 gal.

WINE • BEER • SPIRITS 205 Main Street South, Pine City

320-629-3955 • Pine City

320-629-2020

Family Restaurant

A. BUFFALO B. WASHINGTON

A. CAROLINA B. NY GIANTS

Wings, Wings, Wings $11.95 1pound of wings dipped in favorite sauce MN Craft Beer (1 pint) Schell’s Snowstorm $4.00

FINANCING FUN. IT’S WHAT WE DO!

DJ P KARAOKE SUN. 8PM-12AM 404 Fire Monument Rd., Hinckley, MN

320-384-6174

A. GREEN BAY B. OAKLAND

A. ARIZONA B. PHILADELPHIA

Schell’s Brwery; New Ulm, Mn

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Dine In or Take Out Call in orders welcome

JEFF STEEL

A. CLEVELAND B. SEATTLE

Pine City 320-629-5000 Apply online at www.northwoodsbank.com

A. DENVER B. PITTSBURGH

Mark Gallik

(866) 625-2109

515 8th Ave SE, Pine City

Mark.Gallik@AgStar.com

FULL MENU - FULL BAR - FULL BELLY

320-629-8108 SERVING BREAKFAST FRI-SUN. 8AM-11AM MON.-THURS. OPEN AT 11 AM

Find the right furniture for the Game HERE! Hours: Wed., Thurs., Sat. 9am-3pm Fri. 9am-5pm or by Appointment

FULLY LOADED BLOODY MARYS

23385 Freeway Blvd., Pine City • 320-629-7805 www.facebook.com/PHASELiveWorkThrive

A. MIAMI B. SAN DIEGO

A. CINCINNATI B. SAN FRANCISCO

A. DETROIT B. NEW ORLEANS

WIDE VARIETY VAR AR RIE IETY TYY O OFF WI W NE & SSPIRITS WINE P RI PIRI PI R TS RITS

Your Local Coldwell Banker.... Your Results!

LOUNGE: MON.SAT.11A1A LY ! OFF SALE: MON.SAT. 9A10P K EE LS

W ECIA SP

Lounge Loun Lo L ounge nge ge iiss open open for forr Vikings’ Games @ 11am

PINE C Y OFFICIT E

OFF SALE & ON SALE

r Sale Liquor Sto

LIQUOR STORE

3203846213 • 3203846260 HINCKLEY

RESULTS, INC.

REALTOR ®

324 Fire Monument Rd., Hinckley • Right of I35

Oﬀ

$2 DOMESTICS

DURING VIKINGS GAME

ONE STOP SHOP - Small Town Service with a Smile!

320-629-7541 CBRESULTS.COM

Dedicated Performance Brings Serious Results

950 Main Street S., Pine City, MN

(320) 629-2515 www.pineagency.us

A. BYU B. UTAH

Go Dragons!

AgStar Financial Services is an equal opportunity lender, employer and provider.

PROTECTING WHAT’S IMPORTANT!

Monday-Saturday • 8am-10pm

(320) 629 629-1422 1422

5987 State Hwy 70, Rock Creek, MN

We get the job done!

www.StearnsBank.com www.StearnsBank.com

38877 10th Ave - North Branch 651-277-2265 600 Hillside Ave SW - Pine City 320-629-6713 600 Hillside Ave SW - Pine City 320-629-6713 Member Member FDIC. FDIC.

YEARS AGO

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015

www.pinecitymn.com

Strohkirch horse so large it won’t ﬁt in stable 10 Years Ago, 2005 Pine Terrace mobile home park in Pine City is sparkling with the Christmas spirit, thanks to a number of decorated homes. The park held its own lighting contest, which was judged recently by Pine City Administrator Lynda Woulfe and Pine County Deputy Tom Pitzen. There were nine entries. First place, a $100 Nelson’s Market gift certificate went to the Josh and Toni Clark family. Susan Hanson and Chris and Kelly Cox claimed second and third place. They won Nelson’s certificates for $75 and $50. Four Pine City businesses are likely to face disciplinary action from the city because they allegedly sold alcohol to a minor during a compliance Years check on Dec. 2. Froggy’s Bar and Grill, the American Legion, the VilAgo lage Inn and Pamida failed the comDonna pliance checks. Pine City Community Education is Heath happy to offer two books this year for the Pine City Reads program. Director Becky Maki showed the selections “My Sister’s Keeper” and “Winterdance.” Sixth graders at Pine City Elementary set a record with their pie social fundraiser this year, bringing in $804 for the Pine Community Food Shelf. It surpassed last year’s pie social total of $688. A resident on Raspberry Road, Pine City, reported parties trespassing in a vehicle attempted to steal a spruce tree. The Minneapolis law firm of Rider Bennett, LLP is proud to announce that Jodi Terzich (Gallik), a member of the firm’s Litigation department as well as a Pine City native and 1987 graduate of Pine City High School, has been named a 2006 “Rising Star” by Minnesota Law and Politics magazine. Second graders in Karen Anderson’s class at Pine City Elementary visited the Pine Community Food Shelf to deliver 130 pounds of food and a $100 cash donation. Last week the Chisago Lakes/Pine City Wildcats girls hockey team showed they are a force to be reckoned with. They soundly defeated Mahtomedi 4-1 and St. Louis Park 5-1, proving their ability to compete in the North Suburban Conference. Wrestling Athletes of the Week are Eric Nelson, Than Purdy and Jayme Gallagher. All three of these young men are wrestling on varsity this season. They are working very hard and doing well. They are young and have very bright futures in front of them. Student Achievers this week include Sarah Kraft, a second grader at St. Mary’s School. She is the daughter of Bob and Tammy Kraft and is a very talented student and a steady, diligent worker. Seventh grader Aaron Nisley is also a positive, hard working student. He is the son of Lola and Mark Nisley.

25 Years Ago, 1990 The congregation at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Pine City recently helped Gene Biever celebrate his ordination as a deacon in the church. Biever and his wife, Darlene, worked and studied for several years for Gene to reach this achievement. Father Michael Lyons is the pastor at Immaculate Conception Church. Members of the community shared their experiences with students at the Pine City school as they studied the history of the Great Depression and how tough it was for their grandparents at that time. A Pine City sixth grader won the local Lions Club International Peace Poster contest. Jake Mansavage’s poster was chosen from among 75 entries and will ad-

Oak Park

Dental

Dr. Dylan Ascheman Ascheman DDS DDS Dr. Dylan 505 Johnson SE Pine DDS City, MN Dr. CarrieAve Carlson

PHOTO COURTESY OF DARLENE PAVEK

Sewing contest winners reap rewards (l-r) Jane (Bettinger) Jacobsen, Doris (Caroon) Martin and Darlene (Miska) Pavek were the big winners in the March 1952 sewing contest at the Frances Ann store in Pine City.

vance to district competition. The Pine Area Lioness Club sponsored the local contest. The DNR issued a warning that although the lakes and ponds are frozen over, the ice is very thin and people should not venture out on it. Firearms hunters harvested a record 43,804 deer in east central Minnesota this year. That’s a 38 percent increase from last year and 11,904 more deer than the previous record in 1988. Fine craftsmanship attracts collectors to Debbie and Duane Shatava’s carousel horse menagerie. They make seven styles of the ceramic horses. Debbie hand paints them and trims them with gold and mounts each one on a brass pole to its own ceramic base. Their creations appeal to anyone who has ever ridden a merry-go-round and are sure to be found under many Christmas trees this year.

50 Years Ago, 1965 Plans are being made at the Pine City Public Elementary School to conduct full term kindergarten classes each year in the future. The program in the past has been only for six weeks in length. The village council passed a resolution requesting the Pine County Board of Commissioners to establish a county ambulance service. This action was decided upon after the council learned that the law as it stands doesn’t permit a village to operate a municipal ambulance service. A very lovely bridal shower for Linda Peters was held at the Robert Soderbeck home. She received many beautiful and useful gifts. At the village council meeting last week, Mayor Challeen read a letter to the council from the State Civil Defense headquarters stating that Mrs. Paul Horns is now a certified CD director.

75 Years Ago, 1940

A Pine County farmer who was jailed in 1918-19 for refusing to register for the draft in the World War, and who is charged with inducing his sons and others to evade the 1940 draft registration act, will go on trial with seven other young men in federal district court. Henri St. Hilaire has resigned his position at the Fair Store and will leave on Sunday to take charge of the meat and dairy department of LeVasseur’s Food Shop at White Bear Lake. Bernard Olson has been appointed to Mr. St. Hillaire’s position. Gust Strohkirch, Beroun, has a problem on his hands that has him about stunned. It seems that Gust has a horse, and a lot of horse, in fact, so much horse that he can’t get it into his barn without using a shoe horn and jacking up the door casing. This critter weighs 1,955 pounds and he’s only a pup yet. The owner has been having a little trouble getting him in and out of the stable, and for want of a better method, has been lowering his head and pushing him through the door in a hurry. He’s getting a lot of advice from his friends on the best method to handle the situation, meanwhile he is teaching the horse to duck when he says “low bridge.”

100 Years Ago, 1915

At the village council meeting, Marshal Biederman was appointed janitor for the armory at $5 per month and C.C. Ives was appointed to fill the vacancy as justice of the peace, caused by the death of the late Judge Lambert. The Petschels, Staackes and Carlsons autoed to St. Paul last Sunday afternoon, returning in the evening. They made the trip from the courthouse here to the Ryan Hotel in St. Paul in two hours and 35 minutes.

Golden Horizons

Coloring Contest Stop by Golden Horizons Assisted Living to receive your coloring sheet & return by Dec. 19

Win a Gift Card for WALMART!!!

PhoneJohnson 320.629.2282 320.629.3357 505 Ave SE Fax City, MN • Pine

320-629-2282

Improving the oral health and overall wellbeing of our community and it’s members through education and meaningful contribution.

Three Age Groups: 3-5 yrs • 6-8 yrs • 9-12 yrs Winners will be picked by residents at Golden Horizons.

Good Luck!! Have Fun!! Where life begins ... again.

Golden Horizons Assisted Living 1305 8th Street SW, Pine City, MN 55063

Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 8am-5pm, Fri. 8am-4pm www.oakparkdentalclinic.com

Dr. Dylan Ascheman, DDS.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

320-629-7272 GoldenHorizons.org

DECEMBER 10, 2015

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

www.pinecitychamber.com

facebook.com/pinecitychamber

MAKE CONNECTIONS: BUILD A COMMUNITY As we close out 2015, we would like to extend our thank you to each and every one of our members. You are the reason that we do what we do! Thank you for all that you have given to our community over the last year. We are excited about the participation of 209 local businesses, non-profit organizations, churches and individuals this past year. We look forward to your continued support in making Pine City as we continue to Make Connections… and Build a Community that we all enjoy! A Place for You Advance Design & Systems, LLC AgStar Home Mortgage, Jack Klein All Seasons Services AllBreed North Dog Training & Handling Ameriprise Financial Anderson Electric of Pine City, LLC Ani's Tupperware ~ Ani James Anytime Fitness Arrowhead Transit/ AEOA Audubon Center of the Northwoods Avalon (Meridian Programs) Bamboo Kitchen Berchin's A&W Restaurant Best Rentals Inc. Big Fork Valley Log Cabins LLC Bjerke & The Ripsters ~ Mike Bjerke Broekema Beltway USA, Inc. Bulrush Golf Club Cabak Law, LLC Cabin Coffees Cambridge Pine City Orthodontics Campbell Auto & Tire, LLC Carey's Communications/Radio Shack Carpet Unlimited Cavallin Ford Central MN Coins & Antiques CenturyLink Chris' Food Center Chubby's Sports Bar & Grill Chuckers' Bowl & Lounge, Inc. City of Pine City - City Hall Coldwell Banker Results - Dan D'aigle Coldwell Banker Results - Jan Carl Coldwell Banker Results - Jeana Mikyska Comedian Todd Satter Cross Lake Consulting Cross Lake/Snake River Association Crystal Springs Ice Culligan Water Conditioning Cummings, Todd Currie, Pangerl & Associates, Ltd. Dairy Queen DAKA Corporation Dale's Heating & Appliance DB Signs Doenz Excavating, LLC Don Burger Craftsman, LLC Dr. Energy Saver by Innovative East Central Energy East Central Martial Arts East Central Minnesota Pride East Central Spurs East Central Towing Ed Sauter Accounting Eide Auto Center, Inc. Essentia Health Sandstone Fairview Clinic - Pine City Family Pathways Fedder Motors, LLC Federated Co-ops, Inc. FirstLight Health Systems Flower Box Frandsen Bank and Trust Golden Horizons Assisted Living Grand Casino Hinckley Great Clips Greater Pine Area Endowment Gross Productions H&R Block

Hands for Pine City Harold's Quality Meats Hawk Ridge Electric LLC Hawkinson Electric Heath Perkins American Legion Heeling in the Zones Heidelberger Farm Equipment Hinckley Convention & Visitors Bureau Hinckley/Pine City Flames Snowmobile Club Holiday Station Store - Main Street Holiday StationStore - Freeway #258 Hollenkamp's Waterfront Services Hollywood Pyrotechnics Home and Away Ministries Hopkins Sand & Gravel, Inc. Hunt's Transportation Service, LLC Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Innovative Basement Systems Jane's Travel & Tours Jeff's Outdoor Services Johnson, Nathan JoLynn's Sewing Service Journey North Church JS Computer Assistance Karen's Hair-Kare KBEK 95.5 FM Live & Local KFC Pine City Lake Superior Laundry Ledin and Hofstad, Ltd. Lee's Pro Shop Leisure Designs Inc. Living Hope Christian Center M&M Mainstreet Properties Mainstreet Milkhouse Mark Haug Construction Mark Osterdyk Painting & Drywall, LLC Mary Kay Brautigan, Coldwell Banker Burnet Master's Contracting, Inc. Maytag Laundries Meadow Creek (Meridian Programs) Memorial Blood Centers Minnesota Energy Resources Corporation Minnesota Real Estate Group Minpack, Inc. More Than Sprouts LLC Morningside Farm LLC Musgrove, Robert Musgrove, TJ Mylie's Catering Service NameBank Negotiation Specialists, Inc. New Horizon Thrift Store Nicoll's Café North Country Groom Shop North West Company Fur Post Northridge Apartments Northwoods Bank of MN Norwex Consultant Oak Park Dental Obi's Outdoor Maintenance Old Oak Inn Ooh La La Laser Services, LLC Peaceful Pines Farm & Pumpkin Patch PHASE Pine Area Lions Pine Center for the Arts Association Pine City Area History Assoication Pine City Arts Council Pine City Blue Star Moms Pine City Bus Service & 4.0 Transportation

Pine City Car & Truck Wash Pine City Civic Center Association Pine City Country Club Pine City Dental, PA Pine City Farmer's Market Pine City Heritage Players Pine City Lions Pine City Music Boosters Pine City Pioneer Pine City Public Schools - ISD #578 Pine City Youth Hockey Pine City/Hinckley Garbage Service Pine County Pine County 4-H Pine County Abstract Company Pine County Agricultural Society (Fair Bd.) Pine County Historical Society Pine County License Center Pine Dragons P.T.O Pine EMS, Inc. Pine Eye Associates Pine Insurance Agency, Inc. Pine Technical & Community College Pine Terrace Mobile Home Park Pit Stop Auto Repair Pizza Hut Pizza Pub Pokegama Lake Association Pokegama Shores RV Resort Pregnancy Resource Center Premier Chiropractic LLC Premier Design Jewelry - JoAnn Lindstrom Pro-Tech PC Solutions Pump "N" Munch Rick's Auto Rocky's H2O Softeners & Repair LLC Roubinek Motors Sauser's Inc. "Our Own" Hardware Scandia House of Pine City Scentsy Family Consultant Scotty's Parkside Café Signatures Closing & Title, Inc Smetana, Lara Snake River Outfitters MN, LLC Sophie's Manor Assisted Living Sparx Dance Studio Spear & Swanson Law Office Spire SPIRE Credit Union Stan's Equipment Center Stearns Bank Studio Nine Portraits Swanson Funeral Chapel Therapeutic Services Agency Thirty-One Gifts, Deanne Todd's Tax Service Town & Country Insurance US Bank Usborne Books & More Verizon Wireless Pine City Village Bar & Grill Voyageur Bottle Shop Wal*Mart #2367 Waxberg Clinic WCMP/WXCX Red Rock Radio Westchester Village Apartments Wick, Diane Wild River Veterinary Clinic Woischke's Manufactured Home Park, LLC Zion Lutheran Church

BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR JESUS Hands for Pine City will host their annual Birthday Party for Jesus event this Sunday, Dec. 13 from 5 – 7 PM. Community members are invited to bring a new, unwrapped gift as a donation for the Pine County Toys for Tots Drive. With your toy donation, you can join in the festivities with pizza and birthday cake. Enjoy Christmas music played by local piano students and share in this wonderful holiday event.

OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

Julie Stevens, President (Stearns Bank) Wayne Gilman, Vice President (Pine City Schools) Corey Berube (Frandsen Bank & Trust) Joan Bloemendaal-Gruett (Pine Technical College) Frank Christopherson (US Bank) Todd Cummings (Individual Member) Joe Dvorak (FirstLight Health System) Sara Helseth (MINPACK, Inc.)

A BIG THANK YOU to all the participants in our 2015 Holiday Madness festivities! Our thanks to the following businesses for sponsoring this year’s event:

Pine City Pioneer Coldwell Banker Results Voyageur Bottle Shop Broekema Beltway Todd’s Tax Service Chris’ Food Center Currie, Pangerl & Associates Pine City Area Chamber of Commerce thanks to groups the following groupsfor & individuals volunteering. Our thanks toOur the following & individuals volunteeringfor their services in some way. Without their participation, this event wouldn’t be possible: Pine City Fire Department Pine County Sheriff’s Department Pine City Public Works Pine City Lions Pine Area Lions ~ Treat Bags for Kids Pine City Schools Music Department ~ Jennifer Hansmann & Jennifer Krinke & Choirs Pine City Music Boosters ~ Hot chocolate after the parade Michael & Michelle Belland ~ Fainting goats petting zoo Miss Pine City Ambassadors - Katie, Monica, Allison, Kady & Ella Fedder Motors ~ Vehicle provided for Citizen of the Year Cabin Coffees & Studio Nine Portraits ~ Sponsoring of Santa Photos Holiday Madness Committee Members Sara Helseth, Kimberlee Bever, Dan Washburn, Joan Bloemendaal-Gruett, and TJ Musgrove Community Member Volunteers Jay Schueller, Jim Zaun, Kris Clementson, Julie & Jeff Stevens, Raymond & Deanna Bever Robert Musgrove, JoAnn Gray, Brian Scholin and Santa Bob

PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER: NICOLL’S CAFE In the first year of the Chamber Chili Cook-Off taking place during our annual Holiday Madness event, the Chamber proudly announces the winner of the “People’s Choice Award”. With nearly 100 ballots counted, Nicoll’s Café was voted the winner for 2015. The Chamber wishes to extend a big thank you to each of the participating restaurants for their contribution to the event: Scotty’s Parkside Café, More Than Sprouts and Chubby’s Sports Bar & Grill. Community members contributed a free will offering to take part in this event and all donations were given to the Pine EMS First Responders group serving the community. A total of $170 was collected and donated. Thank you to all that contributed.

Bonnie Menigo (Old Oak Inn) TJ Musgrove (Individual Member) Butch Nicoll (Nicoll’s Café) Erin Skalicky (Ruby’s Pantry) Dan Washburn (Anytime Fitness) Katie Keyport (Student Director, PCHS) Gunnar Nilsson (Student Director, PCHS) Rose Frye (Student Director, PTCC)

NEXT MEETING: JAN. 5 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

DECEMBER 10, 2015

DNR plans to blaze ‘Oberstar Trail’ through Pine County BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is making plans to create a walking, biking and cross-country skiing trail through Pine County – and DNR officials are seeking the public’s input through Dec. 18 on how that plan should go forward. The “James L. Oberstar State Trail,” named after the late congressman, will lead through Pine City from northern Chisago County to Hinckley and connect with the existing trail systems to the north and south of Pine City. Currently, there are trails heading north from the Twin Cities to the Pine County/Chisago County border, and a trail from Duluth ending in Hinckley. This final section of trail, once complete, would make the Twin Cities to Twin Ports trail one of the longest biking and hiking trails in the world. The DNR plans, develops, and manages state trails, and DNR officials have reported that they are working to develop a master plan for the Oberstar Trail. The Minnesota Legislature appropriated $350,000 for the James L. Oberstar State Trail in 2014. These funds could be used for planning, design, land acquisition and development. However, a master plan must be completed before state funding can be used for development. The plan will identify important trail connections, points of natural, cultural or scenic interest, and offer long-term guidance for development, management and maintenance of the trail. It will not define a specific trail alignment, but may discuss several preferred paths within a trail search corridor. DNR Planner Intermediate Darin Newman said the eventual route of the trail will be determined after all options are considered during the planning process. “The Oberstar Trail is authorized to extend from Chisago County to Hinckley,” Newman said. “The length of the trail could be between 30 and 65 miles depending on the route. For instance, a route from North Branch to Hinckley could be about 34 miles, while a route from Taylors Falls to Hinckley could be up to 65 miles. A more specific trail route will be developed through the planning process.” The final trail could be an expensive prospect depending on the route chosen. “Trail development costs are highly variable depending on land acquisition, bridges and other factors,” Newman said. “Some recent state trail projects have cost about $500,000 per mile to complete.” PUBLIC INPUT In a press release, the DNR said developing the plan will be a collaborative process involving local communities, user groups, other government agencies and the public. Currently, community members may participate by taking an online survey before Dec. 18 and by signing up to the project mailing list. To participate or to learn more visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/ mgmtplans/trails/oberstar.html. Those interested in the trail development process will have a chance to provide more input as the master plan moves forward. The DNR will hold a 30-day public review period with an open house meeting after a draft master plan has been developed. DNR planners will consider comments received during this period, and changes may be made to the plan before it is approved. The entire process is expected to take roughly one year. The Pine County Planning and Zoning Department will assist the DNR as a local partner for the planning process. Contact Pine County Planning and Zoning Land and Resources Manager Caleb Anderson at 320-216-4220. For more information, questions, or comments, contact DNR Planner Intermediate Darin Newman at darin.newman@state.mn.us or 651-259-5611. “The Oberstar Trail has the opportunity to fill a gap between existing trails in the area, including the Sunrise Prairie and Willard Munger trails,” Newman said. “We are excited to work with communities and citizens in the area to help define a common vision for the Oberstar Trail.”

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This DNR map shows how the Oberstar Trail could cut through Pine County. A full color map is available on the DNR website at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/mgmtplans/trails/oberstar.html.

Join us for Worship on Christmas Eve 4pm & 9pm

FREE BINGO Ever y Th u r s.

For Seniors (Open to public 55 & older)

Sunday Dec 27 at 9am

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH 825 Golf Ave. SW, Pine City 320-629-2985 www.orlcpc.com

EVERY THURSDAY 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Free Refreshments PRIZES & FUN

320-629-7272

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

1305 8th Street SW, Pine City, MN 55063

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

Ask a Trooper: Keep an eye on those tires BY SGT. NEIL DICKENSON MINNESOTA STATE PATROL

do you determine if your tires are unQ: How safe? Tire talk is important for anytime of the A: year. But now as we get into the winter and snow season, it’s an important time to double

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

Though the business has traveled around town, and the franchise has made its way to other cities, Herzog is glad he put down stakes for the Pizza Pub in downtown Pine City.

Herzog celebrates 25 years running Pizza Pub BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

In a way, Rick Herzog was part of the Pizza Pub team long before he first dreamed of owning the business. “When I first moved to town in 1976 I actually played softball for the Pizza Pub,” Herzog said. “It’s kind of ironic that we ended up buying it.” Herzog took the reins of the Pizza Pub 25 years ago, back in 1990. “We bought it from Craig and Kathy Saari,” Herzog said. “Did we know what we were getting into? No, but I believe in the product that we sold. I believe it was the best pizza I had ever had. Never once did I imagine that [the business] would be what it is today, that’s for sure.” Herzog has spun off and sold Pizza Pub franchises since then, and pursued other business projects. He’s also swapped locations of the Pine City Pizza Pub several times. Herzog said they originally started in what used to be an old hard-

ware store in downtown Pine City. “Then we moved to what was originally the Copper Tree (now Campbell Auto and Tire) for five years,” he said. “Then we moved back downtown in the spring of 1999.” The remarkable architecture of 500 3rd Avenue SE was what brought him to his current location. “It was the building itself – the turrets on the outside, the history of the building,” Herzog said. “I felt that the character of the building would be a draw for people – not just in town but in surrounding areas. Which it has been.” Running a successful restaurant offers daily challenges, and Herzog said two particular factors have made the biggest difference. “As far as the success of this particular store goes, in this location, it has been the quality of the product we try to put out and our staff,” he said. “Without our staff, our business would not be what it is today. We have had excellent employees from day one, and that’s actually

what has built the business, is having a good staff around it.” Ask him about the past, and Herzog will tell you that he’s not a nostalgic person. But ask about the future, and he’s full of ideas and plans, including event and celebrations for the 25th anniversary and improvements to the restaurant. “We’re going to be expanding our beer lines this winter and doing some renovations of our bar,” he said. “Adding some more tap beers, more craft beers. That’s the plan ... until retirement.” But he’s not ready to hand over the keys of the Pizza Pub anytime soon. “You’re stuck with me for a few more years,” he said, chuckling. “I’m not ready to retire yet.” The Pine City Pizza Pub is located at 500 3rd Avenue SE in Pine City, and is open for dinner every night of the week and lunch on Friday, Saturday, Sunday. For delivery call 320629-6468.

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your efforts when maintaining your tires. Over the years, I have investigated numerous crashes where worn tires were a contributing factor. Tires with inadequate tread depth can cause your vehicle to skid or slide out of control on a slippery or wet road surface. According to Minnesota State Statute 169.723 a tire shall be considered unsafe if it has: (1) Any part of the ply or cord exposed; or (2) Any bump, bulge or separation; or (3) a tread design depth of less than 2/32 (1/16) of an inch; or (4) Been worn to the level of the tread wear indicators in any two tread grooves at three locations; or (5) A marking “not for highway use,” etc. (6) Tread or sidewall cracks, cuts or snags deep enough to expose the body cords. My best advice is to keep a regular eye on your tires. Check the tire pressure often. A tire can be as much as 50 percent under-inflated before it is visibly noticeable. Take a pressure gauge to each tire and know what your tire pressure should be at. Routine maintenance is good insurance: Rotate and balance according to your vehicle owner’s manual. Alignments are also important. Some signs that you might need an alignment: • Your car pulls or drifts away from a straight line; • Rapid or uneven tire wear; • The spokes of your steering wheel are off to one side while driving on a straight and level road. Taking a few seconds to walk around your vehicle before leaving for your destination can pay off in a big way, potentially keeping you from getting into a crash. Speaking from personal and professional experience, the “snow” tires I run at this time of the year have made all the difference in my traveling throughout some of the deepest snow and treacherous conditions. I would not want to be without them. Send questions to Sgt. Neil Dickenson – Minnesota State Patrol at 1131 Mesaba Ave., Duluth, MN 55811 or neil.dickenson@state.mn.us.

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These two seniors are captains of the girls basketball team this year. They have helped get the team oﬀ to a very good start both on and oﬀ the court. Both players are major contributors on the court and have had very good careers at Pine City High school. We look forward to a great season with these two seniors leading the team. GO DRAGONS!!

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City moves Sunday liquor hours up to 8 a.m. BY HENRY FISCHER NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Pine City Council last week approved the sale of liquor on Sundays as early as 8 a.m. The ordinance change, requested by Chubby’s Sports Bar & Grill, is consistent with the state’s “Bloody Mary Law” that moves the Sunday liquor start time back from 10 a.m. to 8 a.m. As such, liquor sales are now allowed in Pine City every day of the week except for 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. In related action the council: APPROVED 2016 gaming licenses for

Heath Perkins American Legion Post #51, Chubby’s Sports Bar & Grill Pine City LLC, Froggie’s, Pine City Civic Center, National Entertainment Network LLC for Wal-Mart #2367, Pizza Pub, and The Village Bar and Grill LLC. APPROVED on-sale and Sunday liquor licenses for Heath Perkins American Legion Post #51, Chubby’s Sports Bar & Grill Pine City LLC, Froggie’s, and The Village Bar and Grill LLC. APPROVED on-sale beer and wine licenses for Pizza Pub and an on-sale beer license for Pizza Hut of Pine City. In other action, the council: APPROVED mixed municipal solid

waste collection licenses for Pine City/ Hinckley Garbage Service. APPROVED a joint powers agreement with the St. Paul Port Authority that will enable the city to offer energy efficiency business financing. NOTED that Mayor Carl Pederson will provide city news updates on KBEK radio during a monthly “Pine City Day.” NOTED that the new 3,000 gallon water tanker for the Pine City Fire Department is nearing completion and will be delivered soon. The tank was painted the wrong color and will be repainted at no additional cost to the city. NOTED that the Pine City Fire De-

partment went through a full ISO audit and learned that the city’s fire rating is expected to improve next year, which could help property owners reduce their insurance costs down the road. REAPPOINTED Justin Jahnz as a Captain 2 and Travis Stransky as a Lieutenant 2 in the Pine City Fire Department for the next three years. APPROVED increasing the annual payment to retired Pine City volunteer firefighters by $200 to a total of $2,400 per year, as recommended by the relief association actuary. Mayor Pederson and Council Member Miller abstained.

10 tips to stay Diocese of Duluth ﬁles for bankruptcy warm, save money after clergy sex abuse judgment STAFF REPORT EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Duluth, which includes Pine City, declared bankruptcy on Dec. 7 in the wake of a recent judgment in a clergy sex abuse case. The judgment awarded the victim an $8.1 million judgment, of which the Diocese of Duluth has been found responsible for $4.9 million. In a press release, diocese officials said they filed on an emergency basis for bankruptcy protection in order to reorganize under Chapter 11 Father James Bissonette, vicar general of the diocese, issued the following statement: “There is sadness in having to proceed in this fashion. After the recent trial, the diocese again attempted to reach a mutually-agreeable resolution. Up to this point, the diocese has not been able to reach such a settlement, and given the magnitude of the verdict, the diocese was left with no choice but to file for reorganization. The decision to file today safeguards the limited assets of the diocese and will ensure that the resources of the diocese can be shared justly with all victims, while allowing the day-to-day operation of the work of the Church to continue. This decision is in keeping with our approach since the enactment of the Child Victims Act, which has been to put abuse victims first, to pursue the truth with transparency and to do the right thing in the right way.” SECRET DOCUMENTS SOUGHT The victim’s legal firm, Jeff Anderson & Associates, reported that abuse survivors have taken numerous actions to unseal secret documents regarding clergy sexual abuse in the Diocese of Duluth since the first lawsuit was filed in June 2013, but the diocese has fought efforts to make these files public. A hearing was scheduled for Dec. 17 to determine whether some of these secret documents would be released to the public but the bankruptcy filing prevents this hearing from moving forward. “We are saddened by the Bishop’s choice to file bankruptcy today instead of releasing the diocese’s secret documents on child sexual abuse,” said Attorney Mike Finnegan. “Despite the Bishop’s actions today, we will continue to fight for the release of these documents and survivors of child sexual abuse can still come forward confidentially to hold the Diocese of Duluth accountable.” Sexual abuse survivors in Minnesota have until May 25, 2016 to come forward confidentially and bring a claim under the Minnesota Child Victims Act. The Diocese of Duluth is the fifteenth Catholic Diocese or Religious Order to file for bankruptcy in the United States. Earlier this year, the Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis also filed for bankruptcy protection as well. GOOD FAITH EFFORTS Diocese officials said they will continue good faith efforts to assist all abuse victims and protect the

Don’t miss a beat!

‘This decision is in keeping with our approach since the enactment of the Child Victims Act, which has been to put abuse victims ﬁrst, to pursue the truth with transparency and to do the right thing in the right way.’ Father James Bissonette Vicar General , Diocese of Duluth

‘We are saddened by the Bishop’s choice to ﬁle bankruptcy today instead of releasing the diocese’s secret documents on child sexual abuse.’ Mike Finnegan Attorney, Jeff Anderson & Associates

Church’s mission during the bankruptcy process. The diocese also offered the following background information: • The Child Victims Act in the State of Minnesota opened up the possibility of civil lawsuits against the Church for cases dating back decades, resulting in an as-yet-unknown number of those historical cases being brought to court. • The Doe 30 case, decided Nov. 4, held the Diocese of Duluth partially responsible for abuse suffered by a victim in 1978 with an $8.1 million judgment, with the diocese held responsible for 60 percent of that judgment. • Diocese officials state that since 1992, the diocese has had safe environment policies in place and diligently followed them. These policies involve mandatory reporting, cooperation with law enforcement, background checks and other safety precautions for diocesan personnel and safety training for children, and these policies are continually updated and improved. • The diocesan operating budget for the last fiscal year was $3,294,627. Although there is insurance coverage and some diocesan savings available in this case, according to diocese officials it is insufficient for such a large judgment, and no resources would be available for the remaining abuse victims who have brought claims.

PINE P INE CITY

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this winter

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

As the temperature drops, there are some basic steps that all of us can take to save energy, reduce our utility bills, and keep our homes safe this winter season, according to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Division of Energy Resources. “As heating systems crank up and we feel those cool drafts seeping through doors and windows, there are some basic measures to keep the warm air in and our heating bills down,” said Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman. “Simple no-cost and low-cost steps can save lots of energy and prevent costly repairs.” The Commerce Department is committed to helping Minnesotans make informed decisions about energy use. Please consider the following energy-saving tips: • Set your thermostat low; use a programmable thermostat. Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable when you are home. Turn down the temperature about 10 degrees—manually or via programmable thermostat—at night when you go to bed and when you’re not at home. This can reduce your heating bill by about 10 percent. • Weather strip and caulk windows and doors to eliminate air infiltration. • Cover drafty windows with tightly sealed plastic to keep the warm air in. • Open curtains and blinds on south-facing windows to let the sun in during the day to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce the chill from cold windows. • Seal air leaks to prevent cold air infiltration around chimneys, vents, pipes, and wires. Plugging air leaks is one of the most cost-effective ways to conserve energy and increase comfort—and is the key to preventing ice dams. • Close your fireplace damper when a fire is not in use and install airtight doors to prevent warm air from escaping. If the fireplace is no longer used, seal the flue with an inflatable plug. • Maintain your heating system. Have your furnace or boiler inspected annually to ensure maximum efficiency and safety, consider replacing mechanical systems if they’re old or inefficient, and clean or replace furnace filters regularly as needed. For wood and pellet-burning heaters, clean the flue vent and the inside of the appliance to improve efficiency. • Turn down the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees F. Not only will this save energy, it will reduce the chances of scalds. • Take short showers—with low-flow showerheads—instead of baths to reduce hot water use. • Use light-emitting diode—or LED—holiday light strings to reduce the expense to decorate your home for the winter holidays. • Bonus Tip: Look for the ENERGY STAR® label when purchasing new household products. ENERGY STAR signifies strict energy efficiency and reliability guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). DER recommends advanced energy audits of homes to diagnose the best ways to save energy. Audits can be facilitated through your electric or gas utility, the Minnesota Building Performance Association, or nonprofit energy groups.

FROM PAGE ONE

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

Running ugly – and having fun doing it A warm and colorful crew turned up at the Pine City High School parking lot for the very ﬁrst Ugly Sweater Fun Run on Dec. 5. This new event in the Holiday Madness calendar was sponsored by Anytime Fitness.

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

LIGHTS: Holiday lights brighten up winter nights

CITY: Pine City Council sets ﬁnal 2016 levy less than $50,000 up from 2015 levy total, settles with union

FROM PAGE 1

enough lights to put an entire block out of power like a certain Hollywood family, but he was willing to creatively discern the best way to spice up their facade for a low cost. A quick trip to Wal-Mart brought Trantanella home with two inflatables, a light-up Christmas tree, several boxes of lights, and one new-fangled laser display spreader, all for under $100. After an hour of climbing up and down the ladder with the help of his son Woody, the house was glistening in multicolored lights, bespeckled with festive red lasers, and protected by the jolly, happy souls of Father Christmas and Frosty the Snowman. The strange tradition of wrapping a home in lights has been happening for years, and it’s no surprise to find people enthusiastic about the spirit of lights. Families driving through Pine City and the surrounding countryside can hardly get through a neighborhood without seeing a few decorations. On the north side of town on Edgewater Road, just near the old airport, dwells a menagerie of luminous mangers, Santas, and reindeer ready for anyone to come and see (as long as it’s after 5:30 p.m. of course). This visual fanfare of lights annually brightens up the night and brings the holiday season to life. With the days being shorter and the nights starting sooner, the rainbow of colors down the street brings joy to many so that when it’s dark outside, it doesn’t feel gloomy. Particularly since last weekend’s Holiday Madness and the lighting of the tree in Robinson Park was so well attended, it’s clear that watching electric bulbs start to glow has become a popular pastime. Be it an evening drive or a return commute from work, be sure to take a detour through a neighborhood and catch a glimpse of some of the lights in Pine City. Or, homeowners can set up their own lights and see how creative they can get while enriching the lives of their neighbors and passersby with holiday spirit. Just remember – be safe, make it a fun experience for the whole family, and don’t worry about trying to beat the Griswolds – their electricity bill exploded, just like their reindeer.

year, Pine City property owners would only experience a 3.74 percent increase on the city’s portion of their total property tax statements next year. City Administrator Ken Cammilleri encouraged property owners to direct their questions about valuations to the Pine County Assessor’s Office at the Pine County Courthouse. The final citywide levy for 2016 was set at $1,189,534, up less than $50,000 from this year’s levy. The city’s levy takes into account 2.5 percent increases in pay for city employees, a 6.5 percent increase in health insurance costs, $17,139 in increased local government aid from the state, a five percent increase in fire contract fees from neighboring cities and townships, plus increased budgets for capital improvements and street overlays. It also includes funding for a parttime building inspector position that will be shared with the cities of Hinckley and Sandstone. The council also approved posting to fill a new administrative assistant position; that person will assume some of the duties of the former assistant city administrator. Scholin expressed his disappointment that the results of the city’s recent wage study were not reflected in the city’s budget next year. Cammilleri recommended that the council take more time to review the study, which will be a major factor in next year’s budget process.

BY THE NUMBERS: 2016 BASE SALARIES FOR PINE CITY’S NON-UNION ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF City Administrator Liquor Store Manager/Park & Rec Supervisor Public Works Supervisor City Planner/Community Development Director Building Official Fire Chief (part-time) The council also approved a settlement agreement with AFSCME Council No. 65, in which the city will pay $14,000 to the union to settle a grievance claiming that the city violated the union’s “me, too” clause by awarding the Teamsters Union across the board wage and cost of living increases in excess of the increases awarded to AFSCME members. AFSCME represents the city’s public works and administrative employees while the Teamsters represent the city’s liquor store employees. As part of the settlement, the Me Too Clause is removed from the AFSCME collective bargaining agreement, the union withdraws its grievance, and both parties agree to settle the matter without incurring legal costs for arbitration. In other action, the council: EXPRESSED frustration with the Rush Line Corridor committee that is exploring expansion of park and ride facilities between the Twin Cities and Hinckley through the Pine City area. City Planner Nathan Johnson noted that $92,000 is available for Pine County’s portion of the project,

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which could lead to the location of a park and ride lot, possibly at the Rock Creek freeway exit; however, Council Member Paul Miller questioned the value of the city’s participation in the project since its focus is primarily on Anoka County and White Bear Lake, and the group can’t seem to get a quorum to vote at its meetings. NOTED Sheriff’s Deputy Tom Nygard’s report which indicated a higher number of traffic stops in the city during November. Council Member Miller also asked sheriff’s deputies for more patrols for speeding in the Pine City High School area after 5 p.m. FORFEITED the city’s claim to an easement along the Michael Stephan property, located east of the Dairy Queen. The out-of-court settlement means the city and county will need to pursue other options for extending the Twin Cities-to-Twin Ports Trail northward from the corner of Main Street and Johnson Avenue. Johnson noted that the city has a bike route that currently extends from Pine Technical and Community College to the downtown area.

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PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015

Come, celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ Area churches invite you to worship with them as we celebrate our Savior's birth! Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

St. Joseph Church 19390 Praha Ave., Beroun

825 Golf Ave SW, Pine City • 320-629-2985

December 24 - Christmas Eve - 10pm

December 24 - Christmas Eve Services at 4pm & 9pm Holy Communion at both services December 27 - 9am

Trinity Episcopal Church

305 1st St NE, across from high school, Hinckley 320-245-0582 December 24 - Christmas Eve - 4pm December 25 - Christmas Day- No Service

Pine City Evangelical Free Church

625 Golf Ave SW, Pine City • 320-629-2584 office@pcefc.com

Henriette Community Church

December 20 - Christmas Worship - 10:30am December 24 - Christmas Eve - 4pm

One mile north of Henriette on Hwy 107 320-679-4875

First Presbyterian Church

December 20 - Christmas Program - 10am December 24 - Christmas Eve 5pm - Candlelight Service

405 Main St. S, Pine City • 320-629-3592 December 20 - 10:30am Service December 24 - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5:30pm

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church

Hands for Pine City Outreach Church

535 8th St SW, Pine City 320-629-2935

300 5th St. SE, Pine City • 320-496-3009 Meeting at Pine City Library Community Room December 20 - Christmas Worship- 5pm December 24 - Christmas Eve- No Service (Worship with Family)

Hope Lutheran Church Grasston • 320-396-3925

December 24 - Christmas Eve Service at 4pm - Candlelight Service with Holy Communion

December 24 - Christmas Eve Services at 5pm & Midnight Mass December 25 - Christmas Day - 10am

Faith Baptist Church & Academy

601 2nd St, Hinckley • 320-384-6312 December 24 - Christmas Eve Service - 5pm

Living Hope Christian Center

Assembly of God, Pine City (3/4 mile west of I-35 on Pokegama Lake Road) 320-629-6136 Come and experience the awe & wonder of the Savior. December 24 - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 5 to 6pm

Zion Lutheran Church

410 Main St. S, Pine City • 320-629-3683 December 16 - Live Nativity 6pm to 7pm Sunday, December 20 Children's Christmas Program 9am December 24 - Christmas Eve - 5pm December 25 - Christmas Day - 10am

Braham Lutheran Church Northwest corner of Braham where Isanti Cty. Rd. 4 meets West Central Dr., (320) 396-2755

December 24 - Christmas Eve 5 and 10pm Festive Candlelight Services with Holy Communion December 27 - Carol Worship 9am

Hustletown Community Church 17495 Blue Jay Ln., Pine City (320) 225-9231

December 24 - Christmas Eve - 6pm

Joy to the World the Lord is come, Let Earth receive her her Kin KKing! Ki inng ng! g!

Merry Christmas

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AND OUTDOORS DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

‘Camo-up vs. Cancer’ brings out best in players, community BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Pine City/Rush City hockey team had its busiest week of the season so far this past week, going 2-1 in three appearances. The Dragons have improved to 3-1 overall and are playing good hockey early in the season. The home game against the rival Mustangs also brought a huge turnout from the community for a great cause. PRINCETON 3, PINE CITY/RUSH CITY 1 Although the week finished on a high note, it started off with a loss against a tough Tigers team that is highly regarded. The Dragons skated with the Tigers throughout a scoreless first period, but fell behind 3-0 before a late goal by Jake Lindblom got the Dragons on the board. The game was even closer than the score would indicate. “Princeton is picked to be either the first or second seed in Section 5A this year,” said coach Grant Nicoll. “Our boys had something to prove that they could skate with the best in our section. The first period went back and forth with opportunities on both ends. We missed out on a few chances to go up early, but we also came through with some solid D play and great goaltending to stop Princeton’s attack. The second period favored Princeton as they controlled most of the play, but in the third, our boys dug deep and gave Princeton all they could handle. The boys proved

tonight that they can play at a higher level and keep that level of play for three periods.” The Dragons would rebound with a big win against a rival a few nights later. PINE CITY/RUSH CITY 3, MORA/ MILACA/HINCKLEY-FINLAYSON 1 While the Dragons’ third-straight win over the Mustangs was a great accomplishment, coach Nicoll started with a focus toward the success of the Camo Up vs Cancer event that raised around $2,000 for the Hope Fund in Cambridge. “First I would like to say thank you to everyone that was involved in making this night a success,” said Nicoll. “I cannot even try to name names as I would forget people and have a three page list of names. It was a great night and there was so much support from everyone.” The first 500 people through the doors got a camouflage shirt with a list of local sponsors who helped make the night possible. “Ryan Shaver was at the game last night from KARE 11 news. He stuck around for the entire game getting game shots and did interviews last night until 10:30 p.m. I really believe we showed him what Dragon Hockey is all about. Our story will air towards the end of the 10 p.m. news on Wednesday, Dec. 16.” On the ice, Dragons fans were treated to a team that came ready to play. The Dragons scored early in the contest on a goal from Brandon Fisher and then proceeded to

JOHN OLSON | THE PIONEER

Tina Linnell, Sue Roth, Jennifer Fisher and Heidi Brown are all hockey moms who have fought, or still are ﬁghting cancer.

take a 2-0 lead in the first when Jonah Bergstrom netted his second goal of the season. Unfortunately, Pine City/Rush City was a bit flat in the second period and allowed a Mustangs goal to make it 2-1. “The feeling in the locker room after the second was almost like we were losing,” said Nicoll. “Everyone in there knew that we could play better than what we had just shown. The third was a penalty-filled mess in which we got great goaltending and great penalty killing from our boys. We capped off the third with an unbelievable individual effort to score our third goal (Lindblom) on the empty net. The boys pride themselves on not losing a third period, and after three games we have managed to do so.” The Dragons would

take the ice again on Saturday, Dec. 5 against a chippy Dodge County Wildcats team that entered with a winless 0-4 record. The game wasn’t pretty, but the Dragons came out with a win nonetheless. PINE CITY/RUSH CITY 5, DODGE COUNTY 4 “The varsity team did not come ready to play hockey,” Nicoll said plainly. “Although we won the first period, we were outworked, out-hustled, and thrown off of our game by the extremely dirty play from our opponents. It has really shown lately as we have had to overcome some issues of being shorthanded with guys being out or injured. The boys have stepped up to the plate and did what was needed to get the W.” Brendan Westbrook tallied two goals in the

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The team was scheduled to travel to Plymouth to face Providence Academy on Tuesday, then to Chisago Lakes on Thursday, and up to Two Harbors on Saturday.

Tania Mielke

by author Nathan Johnson

Legendary Locals of Pine City

game, and also scoring for the Dragons were Fisher, Bergstrom and Lindblom. The Dragons had another busy week ahead, filled with a lot of travel.

Pine City Dental would like to introduce a new team member,

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JOHN OLSON | THE PIONEER

Dragons Athletic Director Bill Christianson gets interviewed by Ryan Shaver of KARE 11. The story will be aired Wednesday, Dec. 16 during the 10 p.m. news.

Jared Mason*, award-winning recording artist, composer, and actor most recently starred on Broadway as Jerry Lee Lewis in the Tony Award-winning musical, Million Dollar Quartet. Before that, Jared performed internationally in the Percussion Sensation, STOMP. His debut album, “She Believes In Me” won Album of the Year at the Los Angeles Music Awards. When: December 17, 2015 Where: Rush City Baptist Church, 1080 West 4th Street, Rush City 320-358-4014 Time: 6:30 pm with intermission and refreshments! Cost: $20 per adult/$10 per student/under 10 free (Maximum $50 per family)

Tania is a Registered Dental Hygienist. She attended NDSCS in Wahpeton, ND where she attained her associates of Applied Sciences degree for dental hygiene in 2001. She started with Pine City Dental in September 2015. Tania enjoys spending her free time with family and friends, camping and being outdoors.

Dr. Kristie A. Roberts

1105 Hillside Ave SW • Pine City, MN 55063

320-629-2789

To find out more on the artist, visit www.jaredmasonmusic.com

Preventive, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry

*Jared is the son of Rush City resident Clare Lillis. Jared grew up in the Twin Cities and currently lives in Boston with his wife Noni and sons Django, Geivan and Nico.

www.pinecitydental.com

New Patients Welcome

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015

www.pinecitymn.com

Volleyball team Gymnasts win in ﬁrst meet looks back on season’s high points BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Rush City/Pine City/Hinckley-Finlayson Tigers gymnastics team had its first meet recently, and the young squad had some real highlights. The Tigers faced St. Anthony on Tuesday, Dec. 1, and new head coach Jessica Miller came away impressed. “The girls did great for their first meet,” said coach Miller. “Varsity and JV both won, but more importantly they composed themselves wonderfully. I am so proud as a coach that these girls cheered on the other team as well as their teammates. They are a great group of girls that help support each other in life and gymnastics.” The Tigers defeated St. Anthony in the team portion of the competition 130.525 to 116.05. Among the highlights were the performances of sisters Nevaeh Isackson-Rod and Livia Isackson-Rod. The older sister, freshman Nevaeh, took first in all-around while

her younger sister, Livia, earned first place on floor. Christeava Perrotti was also solid in all-around and earned second. Elsie Lundquist performed well and won first place on beam. Keyara Berube displayed superb form on bars and finished first in the event. “I am excited for the season,” said coach Miller. “They are a young team with much talent.” The Tigers JV also showed themselves well, beating St. Anthony 108.55 to 81.05. “It was fun to see some of the new seventh grade gymnasts perform so well,” added Miller. “All their routines were put together and they looked ready for their first meet. Special thanks to all the JV and junior high coaches; Sam Isackson, Katie Meier, Kylee Berube and Melissa Farrand have helped these girls at practice.” Next up for the Tigers is a meet today at Becker on Thursday, Dec. 10. The Tigers will host a pair of meets in early January.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Squirts come home with Irish Ice Classic trophy The Pine City Dragons Squirt C hockey squad were named Consolation Champions at the Rosemount Irish Ice Classic.

BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

As the Dragons 2015 volleyball season drew to a close, the team and its coaches had much to feel proud about. The group convened for its awards banquet back on Nov. 15 to reflect on the season that was and to celebrate some achievements. Earning All-Conference awards for the second year in a row were junior Emily Broz and sophomore Maisie Berg. Senior Kayla Koecher was named Honorable Mention. Marie Larson was also Academic All State for maintaining a grade point average over 3.8. “There were so many highs and so few lows,” head coach Devin Geisler said of the season. “We began the season with big goals and aspirations led by our four seniors (Kaeli Maw, Paige Wimmer, Larson and Koecher). They made it their goal to have each others’ backs, know their roles, and, win or lose, to play as a team. Adding six juniors, one sophomore and three freshmen with the same desires, it led to a very impressive season – perhaps not in the wins category as much, but in the scores.” The Dragons finished with the same 9-15 record as they had the year before, but showed improvement by being more competitive. In the early part of the season, Pine City played three tight games with powerhouse Mora, one going into extra points. The Dragons also took Braham to five games, Rush City and Aitkin to four, and finished fourth place in the Great River Conference, up from a fifth place finish a season ago and a last place finish in 2013. “These kids played some outstanding volleyball,” recalled Geisler, “leaving it all on the court match after match. Every single player re-

PHOTO PROVIDED

Team members earn honors Earning All-Conference awards for the second year in a row were junior Emily Broz and sophomore Maisie Berg. Senior Kayla Koecher was named Honorable Mention. Marie Larson (not pictured) was Academic All State for maintaining a grade point average over 3.8.

corded career high stats throughout the season. As a team, they served over 92 percent, which certainly gave them the advantage in tight games.” In addition to recognizing the All-Conference winners at the awards banquet, Geisler also posted her top-five statistical leaderboards for servers, hitters, serve/ receive passers, and defense statistics including digs and blocking. It was also a time to thank the seniors once again for their contributions. “Looking ahead to the 2016 season,” said Geisler, “this group of seniors will be truly missed. The sport of volleyball, and any other sport for that matter, should be fun, and these girls not only worked hard but they enjoyed each other and had fun. Lifelong friendships were established and lifelong memories made.

As we say farewell to our seniors we wish each of them well in their futures.” In the fall of next year, Wimmer is off to UW River Falls to participate in the equine program and a possible major in criminology. Maw plans to attend Anoka-Ramsey to get her generals and looks to a future in elementary education. Larson plans to attend NDSU and wants to major in computer engineering with a minor in German studies as well as play in concert band. Koecher has applied to Hibbing Community College and is considering trying out for the volleyball team. As for Geisler, her focus now shifts to a busy offseason in an effort to get the program to take another jump forward in 2016. Huge numbers in the Junior Olympic offseason program will

only help matters. “We knew we were going to have big numbers out for JO,” said Geisler, “but after registration we added them up and we have about 70 kids playing JO volleyball. Ages range all the way from fourth grade to the age of 18. We have six teams in those age ranges and each of those teams will play five to eight tournaments this winter. Our 18’s team, for the first time ever, will compete in the largest tournament in the Twin Cities over Presidents Day, along with some other great teams. Much of our success will be contributed to how hard we work in the offseason.” Geisler also wanted to thank the coaching staff who is volunteering to make such a busy offseason schedule possible.

Dragons wrestling smart in matches BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Pine City/Hinckley-Finlayson Dragons wrestling team hit the mats this past week with action on three days. The Dragons started out the season with several athletes out for various reasons, but still worked hard and saw some successes. Pine City/Hinckley-Finlayson faced teams from Proctor, Mille Lacs, Ogilvie, and North Branch before hosting a

triangular against Princeton and Andover on Saturday, Dec. 5. “This last week was full of competition and was a very good measure of where we are as a team,” head coach Milo Allen said. “Most of the week we had to operate with a skeleton crew. We now have all athletes back into the lineup and it is good to have them.” One of the highlights from a busy week included the efforts of Beau Hunter. The senior had a

great start to his season as he beat junior Ryan Senne of North Branch Friday night 3-1, and followed that up with another 3-1 win over senior Alex Robillard from Princeton on Saturday. “Both of these are section opponents,” explained Allen, “and he wrestled two smart matches to top both of them.” Another Dragons standout during the opening week was Mateo Mancia. “He is a young guy who

is stepping up big for us so far this year,” added Allen. “He has had two great pins at the varsity level and he is hungry for more. As coaches we are encouraged with his progress this season so far.” Junior Dakotah Neid, a 2014 State Entrant, is another wrestler who had a solid performance this week. Neid was back in the lineup against Princeton and wrestled Brent Chambers, who finished fifth at State a year ago

at 220 pounds. Neid lost 7-0 but showed some real toughness. “Dakotah held his own with Chambers,” said Allen. “I am encouraged by this as he was in his first match of the season.” Looking forward, Allen added that the coaches are encouraged to have the whole team in the lineup. “We currently only have two or three open weights out of 14,” said Allen, “and we are looking at who can fill the

others. We will continue to focus on working hard in practice to improve on our intensity, technique and conditioning.” This week, the Dragons didn’t have any competitions on their schedule but Allen said that the team was looking to possibly add a tournament. The Dragons’ next action at home will be against the CEC Lumberjacks on Thursday, Dec. 17. SEE MORE SPORTS, PAGE 21

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

SANTA LETTERS HELP WANTED

Elementary Students from Pine City responded to Santa’s Help Wanted ad by writing and telling him why they were the best candidate for the job. Letters continue through page 21

Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Results

GINA GUSK | THE PIONEER

The Dragons earn a big win against Aitkin’s Gobblers Dec. 4.

bounds and four assists. Mckenzie Kloeckl had nine points and 11 rebounds. Grace Langmade chipped in with nine rebounds and two steals. PINE CITY 52, AITKIN 51 The Dragons earned a thrilling one-point victory at home on Friday, Dec. 4 against an Aitkin team that certainly looked like the favorite. “Aitkin came into the season returning eight of 10 players from an 18-win campaign,” explained Hasz, “and are considered top contenders in the conference. That did not faze [us].” Pine City heated up in the first half and went on a 27-15 run to take a 31-25 lead into the break. The second half saw Aitkin score the first nine points

to jump out in front, but the young Dragons showed tremendous poise as they were able to get refocused and go on a run of their own. In a truly memorable game, the outcome wasn’t decided until Aitkin missed a shot at the buzzer to preserve the win for the Dragons. Langmade topped the Dragons with 19 points, nine rebounds, four assists and three steals. Wilson had 12 points, four assists and three steals. Jolie Wicktor had seven points including a key 3-pointer in the second half. Allison Gusk had seven rebounds and two assists while Alison Brown had nine boards as well. Pine City now looks to add to their win total in games against East Central and Braham.

PINE CITY 84, NORTH BRANCH 60 An increased defensive effort from the Dragons was noticeable throughout this contest. Pine City generated 30 points off of turnovers while the team also showed added hustle to loose balls and more determination on the glass. Despite a hard practice with added conditioning the night before, the Dragons had plenty of gas in their tanks. “We played with some grit and grind in this game, and it showed,” said head coach Kyle Allen. “I think the difference between this game and the first two was we decided to play some intense half-court defense and rebounded out of it. That is what it came down to for us.” Kole Jusczak had his best game of the early season with a team-high 27 and 10 rebounds. Rather than looking to get his teammates started early in the game, Jusczak asserted himself on the offensive end, and to great effect. As the game progressed, open shots were easier to come by for his teammates. “Roddey (Jake Rademacher) and Nick (Hansmann) hit some big first half threes that helped spark us,” said Allen. “[I] thought Jake Lunceford played well, coming off the bench with five points and five rebounds; he can be a physical force when he wants to be.” Allen also gave credit to senior captain Adams, as he took the Dragons’ first charge of the year. Adams finished with a double-double of 13 points and 11 assists. “We got away from some of our principles on the defensive end and he showed the leadership to step up and make a point to take a charge,” said Allen. “All 13 players competed in this contest and they worked hard. It was a

fun, team win.” The game was played in North Branch on Tuesday, Dec. 1. Pine City would add another win to its resume three nights later in Aitkin. PINE CITY 83, AITKIN 68 Coming in with an undefeated 3-0 record, the Gobblers looked like a tough opponent for Pine City. Aitkin had a much taller lineup, the ability to shoot from outside, and had players dunking in warm-ups. “Aitkin was tough,” said Allen, “a very talented team. It is very hard to win up there. They came into the game undefeated. We felt like we had something to prove. Wyatt Sanford is one of the most improved players in the conference this year, [I] was really impressed with him. Nathan Davies is a tough ball player, very skilled for his size.” The Dragons trailed through the early portion of the game, basically staying close to Aitkin due to the superior play of Adams and Jusczak. The seniors finished with 30 and 28 points respectively. Two big threes from junior Austin Hansmann late in the first half put Pine City ahead, but the Gobblers continued to stay close through the second half. The game was in doubt until the final five minutes, but Rademacher hit back-to-back threes to give the Dragons a cushion and ultimately, their second win of the year. “Sometimes, I get to sit back and just watch Noah and Kole play,” said Allen. “It is fun for me. I remember them when I first got here, every step we have taken, and last night, they ran the show. The growth those two have had, not only individually, but what they have done for the program, was on showcase on Friday night. We got back late, past midnight, and we had our youth camp in the morning at 8 a.m. Almost all the JV and varsity players were there to help. They understand what it is to be a part of a program, to be a part of what we are building, to give back to the community and the youth. Very proud of these boys.” Looking forward, the Dragons were scheduled to face East Central on the road to start the week before hosting a game today,Thursday, Dec. 10, against undefeated Braham. SEE MORE SPORTS, PAGE 22

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015 www.pinecitymn.com

County board set to approve 2016 tax levy next week BY HENRY FISCHER NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

JOHN OLSON | THE PIONEER

Bluejacket senior #6, Kylie Guimont, puts the puck in for a goal against the Princeton Tigers in the ﬁrst period.

Girls’ winning attitude brings results BY SCOTT MCKINNEY SPORTS@MORAMINN.COM

The Cambridge-Isanti/ Mora/Pine City Bluejackets girls hockey team is off to a strong start this season. After nine games they have compiled a 5-4 record, already surpassing the wins from last season’s 2-23-1 finish. “We feel really good about our start,” said head coach Corey Bustrom. “It hasn’t just been against easy opponents; we’re winning some tough games. I think the girls just needed a fresh chance. They were down on their performance the last couple of seasons. This year there are new coaches and new opportunities. Plus, they really gel as a team. They’re excited, and their attitude’s always good.” “A lot of the girls work in the offseason to improve their abilities. In the past, that hasn’t always happened. They play other sports during the rest of the year; most of them are in pretty good condition when they get here, and they have team experience.” Formerly the Bluejackets’ JV coach, Bustrom took over this season from former coach Bob Nelson. “Students in grades nine and up were eligible to try out this year,” Bustrom said. “Players younger than that were by invitation only, and I invited two talented eighth-graders to join. We also put a youth team back in place for girls aged 15 and younger; we haven’t had that for about three years. It’s a stepping stone to the high school team, and will help the program down the road.” Senior captain Kassidy Westrom, from Cambridge-Isanti, recently signed a letter of intent to play hockey next year at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth. “I’ve been

JOHN OLSON | THE PIONEER

The Bluejackets celebrate after Junior Addie Smrekar (#5) breaks the 4-4 tie against the Princeton Tigers late in the 3rd period. The Jackets would go on to win the game 5-4 in Princeton, bringing their season record to 5-4 as well.

playing for about nine years,” Westrom said. “I love being a captain. The girls come to me with questions, and I really like that. We haven’t always had a winning team, but this year is definitely different. The biggest difference is that we have people who care; we have a new coach, and he’s been working very hard to make us successful. I think we’ll do a lot better in Section playoffs this year.” It’s not a challenge to coach a “co-op” team, Bustrom said, representing more than one school. “These girls are like sisters; they’ve grown up together. It doesn’t even matter that they go to different schools.” Bustrom spoke highly about the Bluejackets’ play in a Dec. 1 home game against Rogers. “We ended up playing to a 5-4 overtime loss. The girls were disappointed in the loss, but they played their hearts out. We’d been down by two goals, but we came out of the locker room and tied it up to go into overtime.

We’re a stronger team now that we’ve had that experience.” Westrom said that particular opponents drive the team to play well. “We’ve always had a big rivalry with Princeton/ Big Lake/Becker,” she said. “We beat them 5-4 on Nov. 17, and we play them again at home in January. It’s definitely going to be a close game next time.” “Our team mantra is that we’re a hard-working, gritty team that never quits,” Bustrom said. “Whenever times get tough, if we’re in the locker room and down by a goal, I bring that up to the girls. We’ve been on the down side of just about every game, and played our way back into them.” The Bluejackets will host Chisago Lakes on Friday, Dec. 11, and St. Francis/North Branch on Tuesday, Dec. 15. Scott McKinney is a contributing sports writer for the Kanabec County Times.

The Pine County Board is set to approve its 2016 property tax levy next Tuesday, amid requests to reduce it even further from the 4.89 percent preliminary levy announced previously. About 20 people attended the county’s Truth in Taxation public hearing last week, quite a few more than those who attended in previous years when there were no levy increases. Several property owners spoke out, complaining of sharp increases in proposed property tax bills next year, largely attributed to higher assessed valuations. Some reported seeing increases of 60 percent or more. (Note: The total property tax figure on statements includes levies from school districts, cities or townships in addition to Pine County.) Mark Nisley, a former Pine City Council member, told commissioners, “Your spending decisions are affecting us property owners in a negative way.” He encouraged county officials to follow the City of Pine City’s lead to reduce its final levy even further. “You’re nickel and diming us to death on fees and special assessments,” Nisley added, referring to the new $6 household hazardous waste fee to be imposed on all improved real estate parcels within the county next year. “Please go through the budget and find more places to reduce costs,” he asked. Other citizens chimed in, pointing out that their wages and Social Security benefits won’t increase that much next year. “I don’t know who’s going to be able to afford to live in Pine County anymore,” one said. “We do care,” Board Chair Steve Hallan replied. “We put in time and effort to make our programs work,” he said, referring to the county’s six budget sessions this year, three of which lasted all day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Commissioner Josh Mohr agreed. “We really did pound the budget a lot,” he said, stressing that commissioners initially were faced with $1.7 million of new requests from staff, and noted that the county’s health insurance costs are up 19 percent. “Departments all wanted to add staff,” Commissioner Matt Ludwig added, but department heads were asked to trim budgets to the bare bones. Most of the county’s costs are related to wages and health insurance costs for county employees, he said. County Administrator David Minke said the proposed 2016 county budget brings all county funds into structural balance without any deficit spending, budgets revenues realistically and conservatively, and it integrates a variety of services between several departments for improved efficiency. From a staffing perspective, Minke noted that only one new position is included in the 2016 budget – an addition-

al assistant county attorney, which will be largely funded by prosecution contracts with cities. Two new child protection social workers were hired this year, funded exclusively by the state, two part-time dispatchers were hired in the sheriff’s office and the land and resource department was restructured to eliminate one position. Nearly half of the county’s proposed 2016 budget of $35,755,328 is paid from property taxes. Two-thirds of the county’s budget covers general fund costs, which are largely attributed to public safety along with courthouse operations. Public safety is a top priority in the county’s general fund. Eighty-seven percent of the proposed increase in general fund expenditures is dedicated to public safety, Minke said. One-quarter of the budget pays for highways and another quarter pays for health and human services. The state is providing extra financial aid to the county to help cover the proposed $400,000 increase in health and human services costs next year. Much of that increase goes to pay for child protective services and mental health; 65 percent of that increase will be paid from property taxes. “Last year the highway department had the biggest construction year it’s ever had,” Minke said. Next year’s highway budget includes less construction than in previous years but does include funds for a regular replacement program for Pine County sheriff’s vehicles. The remainder of the county budget primarily makes payments on the courthouse and jail bonds and sets aside $125,000 to be used as a partial payment for a proposed new records management system that will benefit several county departments. That system may cost upward of $250,000 to $400,000 and would be paid for over several years. Even with the increases, Pine County compares favorably with its peers. At 64.58 percent, Pine County’s 2015 tax capacity rate is lower than all neighboring Minnesota counties except Aitkin County. The 4.89 percent increase will yield approximately $743,258 in additional revenue for Pine County next year. That, along with $71,007 in increased county program aid from the state, will help cushion the impact of a $1,384,089 increase in county personnel costs in 2016, which includes $464,862 for increased county employee health insurance. While the budget includes about $75,000 for reserves, the county’s general fund balance next year is projected to be only 16.7 percent – considerably lower than the 35-50 percent target the state auditor recommends. The meeting gets underway at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15 at the Pine County Courthouse in Pine City.

BY THE NUMBERS Pine County 2016 Budget General Fund Highway Health & Human Services Jail Bond Payments Courthouse Bond Payments Land Management Technology Equipment Building Fund

$15,244,626 9,401,855 8,167,785 1,147,256 944,175 849,631 125,000 0

+$933,785 +208,415 +406,465 -69,405 8,425 31,042 +125,000 -66,000

Total

$35,755,328

$1,452,718

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

NEWSLINE

FirstLight Health System joins 89 hospitals recognized by the Minnesota Department of Health for their preparedness to evaluate, stabilize and provide emergency treatment to patients with acute stroke symptoms. According to Dr. Weeks, FirstLight’s Emergency Department director, “This designation, Acute Stroke Ready Hospital, recognizes FirstLight for our commitment to timely care, while utilizing the latest evidenced-based care to identify and treat patients experiencing symptoms of a stroke.” “When it comes to stroke, time lost is brain lost,” said MDH Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger. “That is why it is so crucial that all Minnesota hospitals are ready to deliver high-quality stroke care close to home.” It is important for Minnesotans to

Health officials urge flu vaccination during National Influenza Vaccination Week. “The only thing predictable about flu is that it’s unpredictable,” said Kris Ehresmann, director of infectious disease at the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). “We don’t know ahead of time whether a season will be mild or severe, but getting vaccinated now will give you protection no matter what comes.” Everyone 6 months of age and older should get flu vaccine every year unless they cannot for medical reasons. It is especially important for those at high risk for serious complications from flu to get vaccinated. These include pregnant women, seniors, young children and people with long-term health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and more. Vaccination of household contacts and anyone else who has contact with these high risk groups is also important for limiting the spread of flu in a community. In past flu seasons, up to 80 percent of adults hospitalized from flu complications had a long-term health condition, as did about 50 percent of hospitalized children. The flu can make these health conditions worse, even if they are under control. Find a nearby flu vaccine clinic by visiting mdhflu.com and select Vaccine Clinic Look-Up. Flu vaccine also may be given at other locations and times not listed. Check with a physician’s office, regular walk-in clinic, or pharmacy about getting vaccinated against the flu. The symptoms of flu, which tend to come on suddenly, can include a sore throat, coughing, fever, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. People who become severely ill with flu-like symptoms should seek medical care.

Tired of getting burned by high heating costs? A GeoComfort geothermal system uses the energy stored in the ground to deliver consistent, aﬀordable comfort to your home year round, while saving up to 70% on monthly utility bills. GeoComfort systems provide heating and cooling for a variety of applications, including forced air, radiant ﬂoor, dual-fuel add-on systems, domestic hot water and more! What’s more, they don’t burn fossil fuel and have a longer life cycle than conventional systems. Don’t get burned by high heating costs this winter. Ease the pain with a GeoComfort geothermal system from STRANDLUND REFRIGERATION, HEATING & COOLING, LLC. Contact us today! STRANDLUND REFRIGERATION, HEATING & COOLING, LLC 320-679-2567 • geocomfortmn.com 1896 Hwy. 65, Mora, MN 55051 *For details see dealer or visit http://burn.geocomfort.com

JUDY WOLF | THE PIONEER

SSIO

N AL

FirstLight Health System designated as Stroke Ready

Get vaccinated before ﬂu season kicks in

The Minnesota Historical Society has announced 36 recipients of 37 Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small Grants (up to $10,000 each) totaling $291,642 in 22 counties – including the Pine County Historical Society. The Pine County Historical Society, based out of Askov, will receive $8,952 for rehousing textiles, and to provide appropriate storage materials for museum collections. The grants are awarded quarterly to help non-profit and educational organizations, government units and tribal organizations preserve and share Minnesota history. The awards were approved on Nov. 13. Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants are made possible by the Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008. The Legacy Amendment supports efforts to preserve Minnesota land, water and legacy, including Minnesota history and cultural heritage.

Sunday, Dec. 13: Last day of muzzleloader deer season Wednesday, Dec. 23: Last day of North Zone goose hunting Monday, Dec. 28: Last day of Central Zone goose hunting Thursday, Dec. 31: Last day of archery deer season Saturday, Jan. 2: Last day of South Zone goose hunting Sunday, Jan. 3: Last day of pheasant, ruffed grouse, spruce grouse and Hungarian partridge season Friday, Jan. 22: Spring turkey hunting lottery deadline Monday, Feb. 29: Last day of cottontail rabbit, snowshoe hare, gray squirrel, fox squirrel and jack rabbit season

Pine County History Museum wins grant for storage, textiles

A table full of delicious decisions was laid out before shoppers at the First Presbyterian Church of Pine City this past Saturday – just one of numerous shopping opportunities offered around the city as a part of the Holiday Madness celebration.

Hunting dates and deadlines

Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, in partnership with the IRS will provide free income tax preparation services to individuals and families who meet income guidelines at locations in Milaca, Mora and Pine City this year. These tax preparation clinics will run from February to April. This year is the 10th year that this service has been provided. Last year, trained volunteers assisted in the filing of returns for 850 local families and helped claim over $1.3 million in refunds. Individuals who are interested in learning more about this program or helping others file their taxes are encouraged to visit the Lakes and Pines website at www.lakesandpines.org or call 320-679-1800 and speak with Sean Stevens.

Covered with cookies

know how to spot a stroke quickly and call 9-1-1. Recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke by remembering F.A.S.T.: F – facial droop/numbness, A – arm weakness, S – speech difficulty, and T – time to call 9-1-1.

Free income tax preparation offered to area residents

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PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015 www.pinecitymn.com

Mettler is a woman on a mission PRESS RELEASE

Mary Jo Mettler is a woman on a mission. A retired accounting teacher in Pine City, Mary Jo was not expecting to be doing much besides visiting grandkids, taking care of her bees, and enjoying the sauna with her husband. But her life would never be the same again after a trip to Liberia in 2012. Mary Jo went to West Africa with a group of women who wanted to learn from the bold women of Liberia. Brave Liberian women put an end to a long and bloody civil war using the force of their will power and their fervent desire for peace. Mary Jo heard their stories, struggles, and witnessed a country that had been devastated, much of its infrastructure destroyed, including the central electric grid. Life with no electrical grid is tough. Turn on the lights? Plug in a radio? Just a dream in Liberia, where the electrical grid destroyed during a 15 year civil war has not been replaced. Only about 1 percent of Liberians have access to grid electricity. Public institutions and businesses generate their own power at significant expense. Mary Jo visited a large rural hospital during her trip, Phebe Hospital, and she had the opportunity to ask the Medical Di-

PHOTOS PROVIDED

(left) Surgery at the Phebe Hospital is accomplished under lights powered by diesel generators. (right) Despite the nets, malaria is not the biggest problem faced by the hospital – it’s “power” according to Phebe’s medical director, Dr. Sibley.

rector what the biggest challenge he faced was. Expecting him to say malaria, anemia, childbirth complications or the like, she was quite surprised to hear Dr. Sibley respond without hesitation, “power.” Five diesel generators consume thousands of gallons of diesel fuel each month, so Phebe can light its operating rooms, power the lab equipment, cool its vaccines and medications, and deliver care. Generating power in this way costs Phebe US$35,000 each month. And the generators aren’t foolproof. They break down. During some parts of the year, the road be-

comes impassable and diesel cannot be delivered. Or scarce funds have been used for other needed purposes and there is not enough for electricity. Every day the generators are cycled to preserve resources for other necessities. Phebe provides vital public health services to one of the most remote and poorest regions of the world. The Phebe Hospital complex provides for the health and well-being of an area with 500,000 rural residents, cares for up to 150 outpatients and 125 inpatients daily, and houses a nurses’ training facility from which nurses get deployed around

the country. Phebe used to be one of the most technically advanced Liberian hospitals, but much of it was looted or destroyed in the civil war. As of summer 2014, they had 4 doctors on staff. Approximately 50 doctors serve Liberia’s entire population, which at 4 million people is roughly equivalent to the Twin Cities Metro area, which is served by over 9,000 doctors. Dr. Sibley and Mary Jo knew that there was a better way. Just north of the equator, in an area with an abundance of sunshine, they brainstormed about a photovoltaic (PV) solar microgrid. Of

course, Phebe Hospital, serving patients in the fourth poorest country on earth, could not afford the up-front investment, despite a rapid payback. So Mary Jo got to work, and collaborators started coming on board for a project they called “PV for Phebe.” Logistics and other partners are in place, a local team with experience in solar installations will work with the American installers, a system has been designed, and parts are ready to be ordered and shipped. Over the last year, Mary Jo’s vision has continued to build momentum making PV for Phebe clos-

er and closer to being a reality. Donations from equipment manufacturers have been sought. A crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo called “Do It In the Dark” will further the fundraising efforts for PV for Phebe. The goal of the campaign is to raise $35,000, which is the cost of one months’ diesel fuel. The campaign is running through the end of the year. Mary Jo’s retirement dream had been to sit back and relax. Now there is a hospital half a world away counting on her for a hand up, and with her dedication and devotion, she is not going to let them down.

Minnesota Starwatch

Perfect full moon rises Christmas morn BY DEANE MORRISON

In December the bright winter stars make their grand entrance into the evening sky. Grandest of all is the familiar constellation Orion, clearing the eastern horizon around 8 p.m. Among the stars following Orion are luminous Procyon, harbinger of Sirius, the Dog Star, and finally Sirius, the last and brightest of all. As the days go by, these stars rise earlier, and by January they’ll all be up and shining for us by 9 p.m. In the west, the stars of the bright Summer Triangle crowd the northwest horizon. But this is a great time to look for the Milky Way’s closest neighbor, the Andromeda Galaxy. Grab a star chart, go out an hour after sunset, find the Great Square of Pegasus high in the south, and follow the string of three stars extending from its northeastern corner. Above the middle one, the galaxy appears as a faint, fuzzy oval. In the morning sky, Venus reigns supreme. Our sister planet will be blazing away in the southeast an hour before sunrise, with Jupiter high in the south. Between these two beacons is reddish Mars, still rather dim but getting higher and brighter as Earth gains on it in the orbital race. Spica, the brightest star in Virgo, spends the month climbing up from near

We’re more than just print PHOTO PROVIDED

Hot Shot Parker Sell got his ﬁrst deer – a 5-point buck – on the second weekend of deer season.

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Venus to the vicinity of Mars. Watch the line connecting the three planets stretch as Jupiter climbs ever higher and Venus drops en route to its next swoop behind the sun. Winter begins officially at 10:48 p.m. on the 21st, when the Northern Hemisphere is tipped farthest from the sun and the sun shines directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. An observer in space would see the Earth lighted from the Arctic Circle on one hemisphere of the planet to the Antarctic Circle on the opposite hemisphere. The moon becomes new the morning of the 11th, then begins its trek from west to east across the evening sky. On Christmas Eve a nearly full moon rises in the midst of the bright winter constellations; perfect fullness arrives at 5:11 a.m. on Christmas. On New Year’s Eve a waning gibbous moon, just one day shy of last quarter phase, rises in the east shortly before midnight. Above the moon shines Jupiter, and above Jupiter the stars of Leo, tilted like a lion poised to spring. Forming Leo’s head is the Sickle, a backwards question mark of stars—fitting punctuation for Dec. 31, when we await a new year not knowing what it will bring.

WEATHER Date 11/30 12/1 12/2 12/3 12/4 12/5 12/6

High 36° 34° 37° 34° 43° 41° 38°

Low 30° 30° 28° 22° 20° 35° 30°

Precip./Snow .13" .17" .03" 0 .08" 0 0

OBITUARIES

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

Delbert D. Lauer Delbert D. Lauer, age 75, of Zimmerman, formerly of Perham, went to his heavenly home on Nov. 29, 2015 at the Minneapolis Veterans Medical Center. Delbert was born in Pine City and graduated from the Pine City High School. Immediately following graduation he enlisted in the Navy where he spent four years seeing the sights from the deck of a ship. He also spent several months on a submarine in the Atlantic Ocean. Upon discharge from the Navy, he enlisted in the Coast Guard, being stationed on the USS Bold. Del was then stationed in Duluth for Search & Rescue on an ice cutter. Following discharge from the Coast Guard he spent some time in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan, working with his brother Bill. On April 6, 1968 he married Mildred “Millie” Caroon and they made their home in Mora until 1974 when they moved back to Pine City. Del worked for Land O’Lakes in Pine City until the plant closed and he then transferred to Fosston, and then to Perham where he worked until the plant closed in 2003. Del and Millie have two children, two grandsons, a step-grandson and a granddaughter. When not working he was usually hunting, fishing or playing with his dog. He loved spending time with his family, camping with his grandchildren, watching his grandsons play baseball and spending time with baby Clara. He was an animal lover and it always seemed as if animals knew he would be their friend. He was a member of VFW Post 4020 in Perham where he was Color Guard Captain for many years. He was also a member of American Legion Post 61 and a

member of the Calvary Lutheran Church. Delbert was preceded in death by his parents and older sister. He is survived by his wife, Millie; his son, Vernon (Lorie); grandsons, Josh and Jesse; his daughter, Melissa (John) Witt; granddaughter, Clara; and step-grandson, Dylan. Also surviving Del are his two brothers, Ernest of Pine City, and William of Ispheming, Michigan; his one sister, Bernie Murphey of Ogilvie; along with several nieces and nephews. Visitation was held on Monday, Dec. 7, 2015 from 9:30-11 a.m. followed by the memorial service at 11 a.m., all at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham. Pastor Phil Holtan officiated. Burial and military honors will be held at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Little Falls. Arrangements are with Schoeneberger Funeral Home – Perham; 218-346-5175; www.schoenebergerfuneralhome.com.

Gerald E. Rothbauer Gerald “Jerry” Edward Rothbauer of Mora passed away on Nov. 29, 2015 while at home. He was 72 years old. Jerry was born on April 2, 1943 in St. Paul to Frank and Loretta (Washenberger) Rothbauer. He grew up in several places including Washington state, and Chicago, Illinois, but came home to St. Paul to graduate from Mechanic Arts High School in 1961. Jerry was the third of four brothers. After high school, Jerry began a 34 year career at Deluxe Check Printing. He married Karon Vanda on

April 4, 1964 at the Nativity Catholic Church in Highland Park. To this union four children were born. Jerry and Karon lived in Roseville during the early years of their 51 year marriage, before moving to Lino Lakes to continue raising their boys, then to Pine City, and most recently calling Mora their home. Jerry was an active member in the Lions Club Organization, earning many accolades while serving his community. He also was a member of the Planning and Zoning Board for many years. His hobbies included bow hunting, ice fishing, and family camping trips. A true family man, Jerry treasured his wife and boys, as well as his grandchildren, and was happiest during holiday gatherings. Those who knew Jerry best would tell you he was always willing to help family and friends and never asked for anything in return. Jerry was truly a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Bob and Jim Rothbauer. Jerry is survived by his wife Karon; children: Keith, Brian and his wife Susie, Kevin, Mark and his fiancée Megan; seven grandchildren: Heather, Sheldon, Makayla, Hailey, Brianna, Evan, and Addison; his brother Scott Morris; nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, Dec. 5 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Mora. Father Eugene Plaisted and Rita Clasemann officiated. Music was provided by Kris Paulson and the St. Mary’s Choir. Pallbearers were Keith, Kevin, Brian and Mark Rothbauer. Burial was at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Mora. Arrangements were handled by Akkerman-Ingebrand Funeral Home. Condolences may be posted at www.aifuneralhome.com.

James ‘Jim’ Nordrum James “Jim” Nordrum, age 70, passed away Nov. 24, 2015. There will be a family gathering at a later date.

WORSHIP GUIDE Church of Christ

Grasston Baptist Church

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

402 N. Oak St. Grasston, MN 55030 www.grasstonbaptist.org info@grasstonbaptisit.org 320.396.2645 Worship Service 9:30am Sunday School 10:45am

Dale Evangelical Free Church

Hands for Pine City

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

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

First Presbyterian Church Henriette Community 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

(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.

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.

hopelutherangrasston.org Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship Service; 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; Holy Communion first and third Sundays and festival days.

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.

Hustletown Community Church

Living Water Fellowship

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

915 W. 8th St. Rush City, MN Sunday Service 10:00 a.m. Call 320-358-3818 for weekly Bible studies and youth activities.

Open Arms Church of God

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

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

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

Hope Lutheran Church

Living Hope Christian Center

Grasston Jim Sodergren, Pastor 320-396-3925

Jeremy Langmade, Pastor Assembly of God 11914 Fairway Rd. SW, Pine City

Hinckley Seventh Day Adventist

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

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church 825 Golf Ave SW, Pine City 320-629-2985, www.orlcpc.com Worship Schedule Sunday Worship: 8:00 & 9:30 a.m. Coffee time at 9 a.m. Sunday School Pre-6th grade at 9:30 a.m. Thursday Worship 5:30 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

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church 320-629-2935 19390 Praha Ave, Beroun, MN Monsignor Alek Suchan Sunday Mass 8:00 a.m.

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

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

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

MEMBER

320-629-6771 www.pinecitymn.com

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015 www.pinecitymn.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE Sealed bids will be received by the Pine County Board of Commissioners, Administrator’s Office at 635 Northridge Drive NW, Suite 200, Pine City, MN 55063 until 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 4, 2016 for publication of the financial statement (first and second publication), the proceedings of the County Board and such other notices as are required by law to be published during 2016. Please indicate “Sealed Bids Publishing 2016” in the lower left corner of your envelope. David J. Minke, Administrator Pine County, Minnesota Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 10 and 17, 2015 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Pine City Planning Commission City Hall Council Chambers 315 Main Street S. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, the 22nd of December, 2015, at 6:30 p.m., to obtain comments on a request made by Wayne Gilman, Superintendent of ISD No. 578, to consider a variance to the number of off-street parking stalls for Indoor Institutional Uses, to allow for 396 stalls instead of 661, as required by ordinance. The consideration involves repealing the variance approved in 2013 (Resolution 13-08) that allowed for a reduction of 61 stalls, to 600, to satisfy the off-street parking requirements for a new auditorium. The property involved is located at 1400 Main Street S. in Pine City. A complete legal description is available upon request. All interested persons are encouraged to attend and be heard on this matter. Nathan Johnson Community Development Director Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 10, 2015 NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF ROCK CREEK Due to a lack of actionable items on the agenda, the City of Rock Creek Planning Commission meetings have been canceled until further notice. Nancy Runyan Deputy Clerk Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 10, 2015 Notice of Filing for Mission Creek Township office

OPEN HOUSE The following township offices will be voted on at the annual March Township Election to be held on March 8, 2016. The filing period for the following offices begins at 8:00 a.m., Tuesday December 29, 2015 and ends at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday January 12, 2016. Note: Filing office will be closed January 1, 2016 in observance of New Year’s Day. The place of filing for candidates who reside in Mission Creek Township is with the Town Clerk, (320-279-1649) by appointment at the Mission Creek Town Hall. The filing fee is $2.00. One Supervisor (3 year term) One Supervisor (2 year term) One Supervisor (1 year term) Candidates may file in person or by mail. Candidates who will be absent from the state during the filing period may arrange to file prior to departure. This notice is provided pursuant to M.S. 204B.33. Stacy Hancock, Clerk Mission Creek Township Pine County, Minnesota Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 10 and 17, 2015 NOTICE OF CANDIDATE FILING FOR BROOK PARK TOWNSHIP ELECTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the time for filing Affidavits of Candidacy for Township Offices to be elected at the March election on March 8, 2016, will open on Tuesday, December 29, 2015, at 8:00 a.m and will close on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 5:00 p.m. for the offices as follows: One (1) Supervisor Position for a three (3) year term Affidavits of candidacy are available from the Township Clerk by calling 612-390-1275. Filing fee is $2.00. This notice is provided pursuant to M.S. 204B.33. Kelly Johnson Brook Park Township Clerk Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 10 and 17, 2015 NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of

the following described mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: October 25, 2007 MORTGAGOR: Richard W. Shelley and Deborah Thurston, a single man and single woman. MORTGAGEE: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Countrywide Bank, FSB. DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded March 20, 2008 Pine County Recorder, Document No. A471217. ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: M&T Bank. Dated May 5, 2014 Recorded May 22, 2014, as Document No. A-514615. TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ON MORTGAGE: 1001337-0002557266-3 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: Countrywide Bank, FSB RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SERVICER: M&T Bank MORTGAGED PROPERTY ADDRESS: 18344 Creekside Court, Pine City, MN 55063 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: 28.5724.000 LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot 11, Block 1, Creekside, Pine County, Minnesota COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Pine ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $74,200.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE: $75,752.48 That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof; PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: January 7, 2016 at 10:00 AM PLACE OF SALE: D e t e n t i o n Center, 635 Northridge Drive NW,

Pine City MN 55063 to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07. TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owner-occupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on July 7, 2016, unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032. MORTGAGOR(S) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: None “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.” Dated: October 27, 2015 M&T Bank Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee USSET, WEINGARDEN AND LIEBO, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee 4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 (952) 925-6888 37-15-007702 FC THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. Published in the Pine City Pioneer on November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3 and 10, 2015

atory offender- fail to mai... Released Dec. 3. Nov. 30, Eric Anton Gustafson, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- DWI- 4th degree drive while impaired, DUI- 3rd degree- refusal to submit... Released Dec. 1. Dec. 1, Terry Lee Simon Jr., book and release, summons, burglary- 3rd degree- enters bldg- intent ste... Released Dec. 1. Dec. 1, Daryl Patrick Thompson, Pine County warrant, thefttake/use/transfer movable... Released Dec. 1. Dec. 1, Feysal Abdirizak Hersi, Pine County warrant, trafﬁc- speeding/exceed posted ...exceed interstate... reckless driving. Released Dec. 2. Dec. 1, Skylar James Lee Premo, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, trespassingbusiness; liquor- underage consumption 18-21. Released Dec. 2. Dec. 1, Rhonda Jane Diver, warrant, remand-hold, trafﬁc- DUI- 3rd degree- refusal to submit to... Dec. 1, Lindsey Marie Mcelderry, under sentence, stalkingintent to injure. Dec. 1, Anthony Winston Scott, warrant, remand-hold, drugs- 5th degree- poss... Dec. 1, Christopher Lee Trudeau, warrant, remand-hold, drugs- 5th degree- possess schedule 1... Dec. 2, Dakota John Greenly, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, remand-RPR, drugs5th degree- poss- marijuana. Released Dec. 4. Dec. 2, Matthew Donald Coo-

per, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- driving after suspension. Released Dec. 4. Dec. 2, Daniel Wayne Becker, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, remand-bail, disturbdisorderly conduct, assaultterrorist threats reckless... Released Dec. 5. Dec. 2, Kellie Shelene Nelson, warrant, remand-bail, assault- 5th degree- 2/move prev convict in 3... Dec. 2, Shawn Jacob Neveaux, hold for other agency, stolen prop- receive- other prop$250... Dec. 2, Sarah Anne Skinner, warrant, remand-RPR, thefttake/use/transfer movable pro...; remand-bail, drugs- 5th degree- possess schedule 1... Dec. 2, Jerome Louis Quinn, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- driving after suspension. Released Dec. 2. Dec. 2, Zachery Andrew Thompson, probation/parole violation, drugs- 5th degree- procure/poss/control. Released Dec. 2. Dec. 3, Carrie Jean Gerou, awaiting trial/court, remand-RPR, govt- obstruct legal process- interfe...; remand-hold, obstruct legal process- interfere w/...; trafficDUI- 2nd degree- GM, refusal to submit to...; assaultterrorist threats reckless dis... 5th degree- prior conviction within 2 yrs inf...; thefttake/use/ transfer movable pro...; check forgery- make or alter a check. Dec. 3, Santana Michael Vessels, awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, drugs- parapher-

Peterson 80th birthday Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating Iver Peterson’s 80th birthday party on Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Pine City American Legion from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. No gifts please.

THANK YOU A sincere thank you to the compassionate, caring people who remembered me while I was in rehab at Ecumen Care Center. Rita Brown

IN MEMORY

Margaret Ma ga et (Patt (Patty) P ) Barton Sept. 19, 1948 - Dec. 13, 2014 It was a year ago you know. That the Lord said its time to go. I recall how sometimes we would sit and pray and try to read God’s word, The Bible everyday. And so it went those days and years, attempting to read through the tears. After only one year, I try to find joy in my heart, sometimes not accepting why we had to part. And yet as those days and years may go by, it’s comforting to know I’ll be with you again in the bye and bye, soon or maybe not, but our saying was, “I Will Be With You No Matter What. No Matter What.” Sadly missed by, Bob, Joe, Anne; grandchildren: Anders, Sedric, Carson, Isaiah, Gracie, Emmaline, Lydia and Peanut

PINE COUNTY SHERIFF’S BLOTTER Nov. 2 - Dec. 6 Theft, burglary, vandalism

Nov. 30, 7:55 a.m., report of property damage, State Hwy. 70/Croix Ln., Rock Creek east. Dec. 1, 3:05 p.m., report of theft, Evergreen Sq., Pine City south. Dec. 2, 2:59 a.m., report of theft, Evergreen Sq., Pine City south. Dec. 3, 9:33 a.m., report of burglary, Johnson Ave., Pine City south. Dec. 4, 10:58 a.m., report of vehicle prowl/entry, Main St., Pine City south. Dec. 5, 1:28 p.m., report of burglary, Northern Rd., Pine City Twp. west. Dec. 6, 1:48 p.m., report of theft, Evergreen Sq., Pine City south.

Miscellaneous

Nov. 30, 11:05 a.m., report of suspicious activity, Town Hall Rd., Pokegama Twp. east. Dec. 1, 9:23 a.m., report of harassment, 2nd Ave., Brook Park. Dec. 1, 4:12 p.m., report of ﬁreworks, Ironwood Dr., Pokegama Twp. east. Dec. 1, 4:42 p.m., report of unwanted person, Sunny Dr., Pokegama Twp. west. Dec. 2, 12:45 p.m., report of unknown trouble, Henriette Rd./Bayside Loop, Pokegama Twp. west. Dec. 3, 12:20 p.m., report of crank 911 calls, Contrast Rd., Pokegama Twp. west.

Dec. 3, 4:33 p.m., report of trespass, Evergreen Sq., Pine City south. Dec. 3, 9:11 p.m., report of assault, Main St., Pine City south. Dec. 4, 8:00 p.m., report of disturbance, Northern Rd., Pine City Twp. east. Dec. 5, 3:07 p.m., report of neighbor trouble, Pine Bough Rd., Royalton Twp. Dec. 5, 10:41 p.m., report of loud music, 8th Ave., Pine City north. Dec. 6, 11:32 a.m., report of missing adult person, Government Rd., Pine City Twp. west. Dec. 6, 5:55 p.m., report of assault, 1st St., Brook Park. Dec. 6, 11:34 p.m., report of suspicious activity, Raspberry Rd., Royalton Twp.

Fires and accidents Nov. 30, 9:45 p.m., report of vehicle in ditch, Co. Hwy. 61/ Beroun Crossing Rd., Mission Creek Twp. Dec. 1, 12:07 a.m., report of personal injury, I-35, Rock Creek west. Dec. 2, 6:12 p.m., report of personal injury, State Hwy. 70/ Greeley Rd., Royalton Twp.

Jail roster Nov. 30, Clayton William Johnson, awaiting trial/ court, remand-bail, burglarypossess of burglary tools; drugs- 5th degree- poss... Nov. 30, Ronald Francis Mcbride, warrant, Pine County warrant, remand-RPR, pred-

nalia- possess, drugs- 5th degree- poss... remand-hold, drugs- 3rd degree- poss... Dec. 3, Terrance Patrick Flaherty, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, remand-RPR, trafficdriver’s license- driving after cancellation- inimical to public safety. Released Dec. 4. Dec. 3, Brenda Lee Gordon, hold for other agency, stolen property- receive- other property- $2... Released Dec. 4. Dec. 3, Abigail Rene PfeiferKoksma, warrant, Pine County warrant, remand-RPR, thefttake/use/transfer movable... Released Dec. 4. Dec. 3, Donald George Smith, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, remand-RPR, trafficdriver’s license- driving after cancellation- inimical to public safety. Released Dec. 4. Dec. 4, Franklin Joseph Brewster, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, thefttake/ drive motor vehicle- no...; assaultterrorist threats reckless dis... Dec. 4, George Patrick Chester, under sentence, trafficdriver’s license- driving after cancellation- inimical to public safety. Dec. 4, Jacob Alexander Johnson, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, assault- 5th degree- commits- attempts or thre...; theft- $500 or lessM; robberysimple. Dec. 4, Joshua Lee Pantlin, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, aiding an offenderaccomplice after...; robberysimple; Pine County warrant, burglary- 2nd degree- resforced- unknown; criminal

damage to property- 1st degree- $1001 and great... Dec. 4, John Thomas Pedersen, Pine County warrant, burglary- 1st degree- poss dangerous weapon or... 3rd degree- enters bldg- intent steal, 2nd degree- res- forcedunknown. Dec. 4, Kara Renee Tomaszewski, Pine County warrant, drugs- 5th degree- poss... Dec. 5, Randy John Brandt, probation/parole violation, drivers’ licenses- driving restrictions; trafficdriver’s license- driving after cancellation- inimical to public safety, DUI- 2nd degree- GM. Dec. 5, Gail Arnette Groschen, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- DUI- 3rd degree. Dec. 5, Heather Dawn Johnson, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- DUI3rd degree. Dec. 5, Cody Allen Stamper, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- DUI- 2nd degree driving... driving after revocation, ﬂeeing police officer in motor vehicle. Dec. 5, Eryn Natalie Zebrasky, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic- DUI- 4th degree .08 or more in... Released Dec. 5. Dec. 6, Stephen Richard Mcbride, hold for other agency, contempt of court- fail to pay ord... Released Dec. 6.

There have been 1,766 admissions to the Pine County Jail in 2015.

DECEMBER 10, 2015

PINE CITY PIONEER

PHONE: 320-629-6771 | FAX: 320-629-6772 | ads@pinecitymn.com

52 AUTOS 1999 Dodge Neon Sport 2-dr. Auto, low miles,clean, $2000 (320) 396-3257

R TE D

102 SERVICES

OTR Drivers Wanted

D&N Trucking is looking for FT OTR drivers with 2 years verifiable exp., 23 years of age and a satisfactory MVR. We have FL and West runs, 8-10 days out with 3-4 days off; Midwest Runs, 3-4 days out and 2-3 days off and part-time available. Benefits, Paid Vacation, and Bonus available. Please call Jamie or Jeff at 763-389-4816 or 800-247-3851. www.dntruck.com

DRYWALL• PAINTING

Since 1974

-6 64

e Pin

WALLPAPERING & REMOVAL

it 29 ys 320-6

204 SPECIAL NEEDS Local Home care. Keep your loved ones at home. We offer non-medical services for seniors in their home. Pine City area (320)279-1979

Pine City Elementary has the following opening:

TITLE I/HEALTH ASSISTANT PARAPROFESSIONAL

366 GUNS ORIGINAL WINTER

DULUTH GUN SHOW Guns, Knives, Ammo, Coins & Related DECC (Edmund Fitzgerald Hall), 350 Harbor Drive

Sat., Dec. 19 20 • 9-5 Sun., Dec. 20 21 • 9-3

Imperial Plastics, Inc. in Mora is seeking: Production Scheduler This position will schedule work cells and/or presses in coordination with multiple functions. 3-5 years exp. preferred. Must be detail oriented and an excellent multitasker. Oﬀers competitive pay and beneﬁts. Submit resumes to: heidi.thomsen@imperialplastics.com or fax to 320-679-6699

Adults $5 Under 12 Free w/adult Info: 218-724-8387 or 218-348-1825

369 WANTED

The smart way to sell your stuff! Call 320-629-6771 or go to www.pinecitymn.com - click on Classiﬁeds, place an ad!

HOUSE SITTER

(612) 390-6325

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

THE

CLASSIFIEDS

405 2nd Ave SE CALL TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED 320-629-6771

CALL TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY.

EXCESS BAGGAGE WEIGHING YOU DOWN? Placing a classiﬁed ad is an easy and affordable way to advertise your unwanted items to hundreds of potential buyers. Contact us today and start turning the stuff you don’t want into something you do want: CASH! Advertiser 320-629-6771 or www.pinecitymn.com

CLASSIFIED ADS GET RESULTS Call 320-679-2661 Mora or 320-629-6771 Pine City

CLASSIFIED FORM ❑ Pay by Cash ❑ Pay by Check ❑ Pay by Credit Card

Name Address

Credit card number:

City, State, Zip Phone (

PRINT YOUR AD BELOW. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

629-6771 679-2661 405 2ND AVE SE, PINE CITY, MN 55063

3 digit security code

No refunds on cancelled classiﬁeds

10 WORDS/ $8.00

245 Main Street S. Pine City. All new inside and out. Very eﬃcient. Comes with two private parking spots.

TOTAL 1 WEEK COST

Amount from form

11 WORDS $8.80

12 WORDS $9.60

13 WORDS $10.40

14 WORDS $11.20

15 WORDS $12.00

16 WORDS $12.80

17 WORDS $13.60

18 WORDS $14.40

19 WORDS $15.20

20 WORDS $16.00

21 WORDS $16.80

22 WORDS $17.60

23 WORDS $18.40

24 WORDS $19.20

25 WORDS $20.00

26 WORDS $20.80

27 WORDS $21.80

28 WORDS $22.40

29 WORDS $23.20

30 WORDS $24.00

TOTAL COST

452 RENTALS RESIDENTIAL

20% DISCOUNT Run 3 weeks

First week cost $_________ X 3 weeks= $________ X .80 TOTAL COST

612 390-6325

Advertiser

First week cost $_________ X 2 weeks= $________ X .90

Contact Dale for details.

320-629-6771 www.pinecitymn.com

107 S. PARK ST., MORA, MN 55051-0239

10% DISCOUNT Run 2 weeks

660 square feet of commercial property at

Placing a classiﬁed ad is an easy and affordable way to make your wares the focus of attention among potential buyers. What are you waiting for? Contact us today!

OR ONLINE www.moraminn.com www.pinecitymn.com

Place your classified online www.moraminn.com • www.pinecitymn.com

Expiration Date: ____ /____

)

FOR RENT

TIRED OF SEARCHING FOR BUYERS?

PINE CITY 320-629-6771

Fax 320-629-6772 Fax 320-679-2663

451 RENTALS COMMERCIAL

Pine City- Nice 1BR ground level apartment w/wooded view, laundry on-site. No dogs. $610+electric. (651)-983-5771

MORA 320-679-2661

ALSO ONLINE ON THE NORTHSTAR MEDIA CLASSIFIED NETWORK COVERING EAST CENTRAL MINNESOTA AND WESTERN WISCONSIN pinecitymn.com - moraminn.com - isanti-chisagocountystar.com - burnettcountysentinal.com - osceolasun.com

WANTED UNTIL SPRING OR LONGER. Edgewater Road, Pine City Contact Dale for details

TO SELLING YOUR STUFF.

HTTP://WWW.APPLITRACK.COM/PINECITY/ONLINEAPP/

351 ANTIQUES/ ART Antiques wanted: Anything nice. Call 320-679-2535 or 651-238-0909.

THE KEY

Summary: Title I - 3.25 hrs per day, Health Assistant 2 hrs per day QualiÀcations: A two year degree or passage of the state Para-Pro exam will be required for this position. Application Deadline: 12/18/15 For more details and to apply online:

30% DISCOUNT Run 4 weeks

First week cost $_________ X 4 weeks= $________ X .70 TOTAL COST

SELECT CATEGORY 351 368 59 401 52 51 113 60 100 353 505 151

Antiques/Art Appliances ATVs Auction Calendar Automobiles Auto Parts/Service Black Dirt Boats & Motors Brick Work Building Supplies Business For Sale Business Opportunity

111 Cement 54 Classic & Antique 107 Cleaning Homes/ Businesses 22 Clothing 350 Computers 356 Computer/Office Equipment 99 Construction 403 Crafts/Boutiques 55 Cycles 201 Daycare 155 Education

154 Employment 157 Employment Part Time 152 Employment/ Seasonal 153 Employment Services 13 Entertainment 407 Estate Sales 116 Excavation 349 Exercise Equipment 301 Farm Misc. 302 Feed/Seed/Hay 94 Financial

358 404 103 366 104 21 159 160 500 365 115 352

Firewood Garage Sale Glass Repair Guns Hauling/Moving Health/Beauty Health Care Hire Me Hobby Farms Home Electronics Home Heating Home Office Organization

106 303 355 91 92 360 457 108 109 361 251 012 14

Home Improvement Horses Household Income Tax Insurance Kids/Baby Lakeshore Landscaping Lawn Care Lawn & Garden Lessons/Schools Livestock Local Events

16 503 11 362 504 405 363 202 20 105 17 304 305

Lost & Found Lots & Acreage Memorials Misc. Mobile Homes Moving Sales Music Need Daycare Notices Painting Personals Pet Sitting Pets/Supplies

19 308 506 501 93 451 452 455 114 453 110 56 406

Piano Tuning Poultry Real Estate Real Estate Wanted Refinancing Rentals Commercial Rentals/Residential Rentals Wanted Roofing/Siding Roommates Rototilling RVs Sales

203 102 15 357 57 101 158 204 367 454 18 120

Senior Care Services Sewing Snowblowers Snowmobiles Snow Removal/ Equipment Social Services Special Needs Sporting Goods Storage Thank You Tools

50 112 58 456 53 156 369 502

Trailers & Campers Tree Service Trucks/Vans/SUVs Vacation Rentals Vehicles Wanted Volunteers Wanted 4 Sale by Owner

HOLIDAY MADNESS

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 10, 2015

www.pinecitymn.com

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

Members of the Music Boosters and Pine City High School Choir led the Christmas Carol parade down Main Street on Dec. 5.

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

The kids were offered plenty of treats by parade participants, and had to get in line to give Frosty a hug.

JUDY WOLF | THE PIONEER

Kaylie and Kaden Christenson were among the throngs of kids who had a chance to meet Santa at Robinson Park.

Mild temperatures meant less bundling-up than usual at this year’s parade - and brought more opportunities for festive headgear.

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

There was just enough snow in front of Stearns Bank to put up a snowman before the parade.

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

Though the Jeff’s Outdoor Services reindeer float won first prize in the parade competition, this colorful, creative winter scene earned Mylie’s Catering the prize for second place.

Holiday Craft Fair at the

Pine City Armory

1305 Main St. S. Pine City, MN 55063

Saturday, December 12 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Family Holiday Photos on site

f Find all o t s la your ifts! minute g

Over 50 great vendors!

Visit Us Online at www.pinecitymn.com

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

The electric candles held up by the Elementary School Choir lit up the night – and so did the multiple cell phones held up by proud parents recording the performance.