2018 PROGRESS MARCH 1, 2018
A look back at 2017...
LOCAL EVENTS TECHNOLOGY CHANGES BUSINESS NEWS MILESTONES
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO
THE WADENA PIONEER JOURNAL
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Friendly Rider Here to get you there! Since 2003, Friendly Rider
has provided public transportation to North Central Minnesota. We connect people with their community, for work, school, shopping, appointments and more. We have seen a continued increase in ridership with 2017 being a record year!
Transit services expanding farther than ever before! Friendly Rider is a great option for Medical Trips, Shopping, Student Activities & More!!
2015 45,174 Rides 2016 54,023 Rides 2017 66,409 Rides!!!
631-5730
WWW.FRIENDLYRIDER.COM
REACH US BETWEEN 6:00 AM AND 6:00 PM BY DIALING 218-631-5730 OR 1-888-773-5500 001692300r1
March 1, 2018
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BUSINESS
110 Hemlock Ave. NW • Wadena, MN 56482 218-632-3610 • www.meadowsofwadena.org 001693911r1
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Dr. Brett Speer, D.C. • Dr.Brian Koltes, D.C. 11 BRYANT AVE SW • WADENA, MN 56482 218-631-3003 • www.speerchiro.com
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Photos by Michael Johnson/Pioneer Journal The central business sector of Wadena’s Jefferson Street is seeing open storefronts and new owners working to start new ventures.
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MICHAEL JOHNSON
113 2nd Ave.NW, Bertha, MN 218-924-9200
mjohnson@wadenapj.com
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632-5550
Same great service you have been accustomed to for over 70 years.
Hwy. 71 N, Wadena, MN • 631-1774 Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30–5:00 Saturday 8:30 –12:00
Your headquarters for gardening products!
www.wadenanorthsidefloral.com
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• New Steel David Folkestad II
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323 Jefferson St. S. Wadena, MN
NORTHSIDE FLORAL, llc
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ALIGNMENT AND AUTO REPAIR
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9 Steve’ s
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Wadena’s business sector ‘holding its own’ despite retail changes
222 Ash Avenue NE, Wadena, MN 56482 T: 218-632-8012 Cell: 218-371-6383
• Custom Machining • Custom Welding • Welding Gases & Supplies • PTO & Hydraulic Repair
Downtown America is a changing and struggling place, according to Wadena Mayor George Deiss, but he said Wadena is one of the small communities holding its own in terms of business, and other city officials agree. They believe Wadena has a lot going for it and hope future improvements will be a further boon for business. Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shirley Uselman said one thing she has noticed this year is an increase in people wanting to live and work in Wadena. “I’m getting more calls saying, ‘We are interested in moving or maybe starting a small business in your community,’” Uselman said. “I have noticed that has picked up.” Uselman finds herself telling prospective businesses about all Wadena has to offer. A brand new school, wellness center, top-notch medical care, places for the elderly, multiple parks, a variety of churches and always something to do. “There is really something going on every month that would make your month a little more enjoyable,” Uselman said. She also pointed to the availability of affordable housing and a business district that is thriving. “When you drive through our town, our businesses are not all offices,” Uselman said. “We could use more businesses and more retail, but we still do have businesses in our district.” Uselman noted that the business community was sad to see the Cyber Cafe go. The business announced it would close in early January due to a lack of finances. “I’m sure we would love to see our town’s climate be more active; that is what we are trying to make happen,” Uselman said. Part of that improvement could come from the city’s recent venture with the Buxton Group, a business services firm with a national
footprint. According to Wadena Development Authority Director Dean Uselman, the city entered into an agreement with Buxton about seven months ago, agreeing to pay $50,000 for the first year of the agreement (and for the next two years, too, if the plan is to continue over three years). The agreement allows the city to tap into precision analytics and other development services provided by Buxton. Buxton works with one of the largest credit card companies in the world, giving it the ability to incorporate aggregated and de-identified credit card transaction data. Thus, the company knows where people shop, in person and online. Buxton has other tricks up its sleeve, too, including license plate captures and cell phone data. It can analyze business performance by branch location, and can basically tell businesses who their customers are – and who they’re missing. By tracking credit card purchases by zip code, Buxton has the ability to see where consumers within roughly 20 miles of Wadena are spending their money. If there are retail “gaps” in Wadena that no store currently fills, city officials can use that information to make a case that a business should open a branch in Wadena – using data to show that Wadena folks are already traveling to shop at that store elsewhere. “It’s very valuable information for us to get to know,” Uselman said. “We could go to other businesses with that detailed information and provide them with an idea of the dollars that would be spent in their store if they were to locate in Wadena.” Same with online shopping. If a lot of Wadena-area consumers are buying a product online because it’s not available in town, the city can let retailers know about it so they can adjust their inventories. The City of Wadena will use the data both to help existing businesses provide in-demand
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There are a lot of positive things going on.
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Some store fronts saw closure in recent months, including The Cyber Cafe, which closed in January.
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Midwest Vision centers Bringing Life Into Focus
318 South Jefferson St. Wadena, MN
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the street from that, efforts are still being made to reopen the Wadena Bakery by this summer. And Buckwheat Growers Association has acquired a building along Highway 10 that it hopes to use for value-added products. Uselman also spoke of a possible brewery and restaurant coming to town. “So we are working hard to make some of these things come to fruition,” Uselman said. “There are a lot of positive things going on.” City administrator Brad Swenson believes the city is holding its own. “I don’t believe we are seeing a lot of growth, but for the most part we are retaining what we have,” he said. Swenson pointed out big additions to town, including a new dental clinic, new assisted living center and an addition to Kern Electronics, as boosts to the community. Smaller retail businesses like Oma’s Bread and the new nail salon are helping bring something new to the scene, as well. “There is slow growth, but at least it’s in the right direction,” Swenson said. With more jobs comes the need for more housing. Swenson pointed to a developer who is planning on adding 30-40 new units in southwest Wadena this summer. The city is also making steps to add new infrastructure as plans for a new four-lane Highway 10 ramp up. That addition could open up many new opportunities, according to Deiss. Deiss believes the city will be sitting in a good position for growth upon completion of the new highway. Until then, he thinks new or expanding businesses are holding off to see what type of property exists after the new roads are laid. Uselman believes when the Highway 10 corridor is complete, Wadena will see more traffic, and more of that traffic will stop to shop in Wadena. “With the highway going through town, I think there will be additional traffic that will stop,” Uselman said. “It’s just a little more convenient to be able to access businesses.” Deiss said the new infrastructure, outstanding school district, great healthcare, wellness center, a golf course and inexpensive property make a good foundation for the community’s success. Three major highways all leading to Wadena continue to keep it an important stopping point. “Compared to any other small town, I think Wadena is doing well,” Deiss said. Uselman heard from some businesses that are seeing positives and also believe Wadena is doing well. Talking to business owners, he found that some of them had their best year ever and some are expanding, and he believes that trend will continue.
218-631-3300
www.midwestvisioncenters.com
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Joe Hinkle, broker 218-632-5036 www.hinklerealty.com • 119 Jefferson St. S., Wadena 001499755r1
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Inga’s Place
Adult Foster Care Assisted Living
Our focus is to provide assisted and extensive care to elderly individuals in our country home. Licensed through Otter Tail County Social Services Owners: Richard & Karla Guldseth 38281 Co. Hwy. 75, Wadena, MN 56482
218-631-7211
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218-631-5730 or 1-888-773-5500 001536128r1
Home Town Abstract & Title Servicing Todd, Wadena and Otter Tail County for all your abstracting, closing and title insurance needs.
320 Jefferson St. S., Wadena, MN • 218.632.5749 Serving the Wadena area since 2001!
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Comfort Care Cottage 1232 Jefferson st. s, Wadena, Mn
218-631-4873
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assisted Living in a hoMe setting 001518829r1
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Everyone Loves A Great Smile
Services offered:
•CEREC - one-visit dentistry •Invisalign - the clear alternative to braces •Tooth whitening and bleaching •Snore guards and Sleep Apnea devices
•Dental Implants •3D Imaging •CT Scanner
Dr. Ryan Anderson 206 1st Street SE, Wadena Phone: 218-631-4431 Fax: 218-631-2926 www.woodlanddental.org
woodlanddental@arvig.net
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inventory and to fill gaps in the city’s retail sector. Uselman said it’s still too early to say how the agreement is working. Part of the agreement was that Buxton would identify 20 companies that appear to be a good fit for Wadena. Those businesses have included restaurants and hard goods stores, Uselman said. He said he will be working with Buxton to follow up with those leads. He is also currently looking to see if there is interest in the community for possible franchise ownership. “I think these would make a nice addition to Wadena and hopefully we can make some of those come to fruition,” Uselman said. Buxton has worked with a number of other communities around Wadena’s size, and Uselman has talked to city leaders from some of those communities. “They have been very pleased with the results they had,” he said. While the Buxton contract can be canceled after one year, communities that sign up for the service tend to prolong it past three years, not shorten it, he said. “I see this as a very great marketing opportunity for this community,” Uselman said. “We did some similar work with the University of Minnesota, but there was not nearly the detail that Buxton provides.” Aside from the work of Buxton, Uselman said he is working with a ceramic tile manufacturer that could open up 30 jobs in Wadena. Wadena is one of two locations the business is considering. He also mentioned the addition of a new nail salon going into the old Coast-to-Coast building. Just down
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– DEAN USELMAN, Wadena Development Authority Director
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George Wheeler Jr., Owner
Office 218-631-3633 Cell 218-639-9886 19452 Co Rd 66 Wadena, MN 56482
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platinumelectric@wcta.net
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Fax 218-631-3462
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March 1, 2018
Wadena County Transfer Station 10542 170th Street, Wadena County recycling facility Wadena 2.5 miles north of Wadena on 11th Street N., 218-631-2474 then 1/2 mile east on 170th St.
For more info on Wadena County recycling visit: www.co.wadena.mn.us/county_directory/solid_waste/solid_waste.htm 001500826r1
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29744 530th Ave. Deer Creek, MN 56527
22
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Tri-County Health Care celebrates long list of new additions
An Alternative to Senior Care
Jody & Beno Lohse, Owners 609 Front Street • Henning, MN 56551 (218) 583-4428 • (218) 583-2504 Fax e-mail: ourhome@arvig.net
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24 hour staff supervision • RN on staff
21 MAIN AVENUE NORTH • NEW YORK MILLS, MN
218.385.3562
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Debra Porkkonen, Associate Broker Bonnie Dykhoff, Broker Chelsea Wegscheid, agent
Fax: 218.385.3237
centennialrealty@gmail.com
www.centennial-realty.com
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Dr. Christopher O’Kane DDS NEW LOCATION!
R
ESTORATIVE
Full Service Dentistry Without the Drive FORM |FUNCTION |ARTISTRY
D
Consultations for adults & children available daily
ENTISTRY
145 Juniper Ave. Wadena, MN www.okanedental.com
218-631-2515
TNT REPAIR, INC. Jim & Shari Haberer
See us for
“Heavy Truck Repair”
on Grain Trucks Over the Road Semi Trucks & Trailers IN-STORE TIRE SALES
300 Industrial Drive Henning, MN
218-583-4545
27366 490th Street Staples, MN 56479
218-894-1084 www.ppandpi.com
NEWS STAFF
In an effort to keep on the cutting edge of care for the region, Tri-County Health Care took on many new ventures in the past year. By adding more health care providers and additional technologies, Tri-County hopes to continue to provide necessary care for Wadena and the surrounding communities well into the future. New additions in 2017 included the following:
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LINX procedure
Tri-County Health Care celebrated the addition of two ambulances to its emergency medical services fleet in the fall. Tri-County EMS now has four ambulances in its fleet.
The LINX Reflux Management System is an innovative laparoscopic procedure to help prevent acid reflux in patients who suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Tri-County is one of only nine facilities in the state certified to do the procedure and the results to acid reflux sufferers can be life-changing. Dr. David Kloss is a board-certified general surgeon specially trained to perform this surgery. Following the procedure, patients are able to resume a normal diet and will typically resume normal activities in less than a week. The surgery is typically done as an outpatient procedure.
New urology partnership
Garden of Hope
New Ambulances
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ICC# MC389795 DOT# 0897308 FED ID# 41-1978341
Customized Living Facility
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Submitted photos Staff celebrated the addition of two new ambulances to the fleet at Tri-County Health Care.
Owners, Darren & Pennie Astle
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• Flatbed • Haul to Hire • 48 States
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218-462-2611
Tri-County Health Care added a new team of visiting board-certified urologists to its Wadena Clinic specialty services, thanks to a partnership with Essentia Health. The team of Scott Wheeler, M.D.; Bradley Qualey, M.D.; and Eric Chapman, D.O., started Aug. 9. Wheeler, Qualey and Chapman provide medical and surgical treatment for a wide range of urological conditions including male infertility, urinary incontinence, kidney stones, overactive bladder, hematuria, recurrent urinary tract infections and urological cancers. The urologists are also devoted to treating children from infancy through adolescence, offering a large spectrum of pediatric services such as unstable bladder, nighttime incontinence, bed wetting and recurrent urinary tract infections.
A new feature called the Garden of Hope was added to the Wesley lawn. The garden serves to honor those who generously chose to be an organ donor. More than 120,000 people are waiting for transplants, and that number rises every day. Those transplants might be the difference between life and death, which is why all donors, whether living or deceased, deserve gratitude. The Garden of Hope is Tri-County’s way of honoring them.
Midwifery
Tri-County Health Care introduced a new midwifery program with the hire of Dawn Dahlgren- Roemmich, certified nurse midwife, who will practice at Tri-County’s Wadena and Sebeka clinics. The main components of a midwife’s services are prenatal care through
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2 Miles South of Wadena on Hwy. 71 • 218-631-2768 www.spearautosales.com • spearauto@arvig.net
Truckload Marketplace 15 Aldrich Ave. SW., Wadena 631-5731 001466227r1
New to You Thrift Store 204 Bryant SE., Wadena 631-2113
The Wadena Rehabilitation Clinic purchased a $5,000 bariatric treadmill.
Bariatric treadmill
Women’s Day Out overhaul
Chemistry analyzer
Tri-County Health Care revamped its Women’s Day Out event for women of all ages and renamed it Live Pink. The name was inspired by the traits that the color
The hospital laboratory added a Roche Cobas 8000 in October, a chemistry analyzer that tests blood, urine and spinal fluid for concentrations of glucose, sodium, potassium, lipids and more. This new analyzer allowed the lab to add additional in-house testing to its existing lineup, such as ammonia, procalcitonin, rheumatoid factor, prolactin and more.
Descend for diabetes
Joel Beiswenger, Tri-County Health Care president and CEO, rappelled down the 26-floor Hyatt Regency Minneapolis for the American Diabetes Association’s Over the Edge Descend for Diabetes Sept. 29. Beiswenger agreed to make the descent if TriCounty employees could raise at least $1,000 for the American Diabetes Association. Employees accepted the challenge and raised a total of $1,216.
Hires Joel Beiswenger, Tri-County Health Care president and CEO, rappelled down the 26-floor Hyatt Regency Minneapolis for the American Diabetes Association’s Over the Edge Descend for Diabetes Sept. 29.
► Beth Helgerson, M.D. – OB/GYN ► Jessica Grimes, M.D. – Family Medicine, Ottertail Clinic ► Rachel Redig, M.D. – Emergency Medicine TRI-COUNTY TO 8 ��
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Hwy. 71 N. Wadena, MN 218-631-1580
Nationwide Reservations 1-800-634-3444 www.americinn.com
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Romper Room Daycare Tina Reece
Licensed Daycare 1017 N. Jefferson St. Wadena
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631-2360 001504375r1
Service Professionals Total Home Comfort Equipment Sales & Service Rely on Ruud
•Heating •Air Conditioning •Sheet Metal •Plumbing WADENA, MN • 218-631-2638
ALBERS REALTY
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Dawn Dahlgren-Roemmich, certified nurse midwife, offers water births in her practice. Giving birth in a warm-water tub is a safe, reliable way for mothers to cope with pain and delivery in a natural way. The buoyancy and warmth of the environment help many women feel calm, secure and in control during the rigors of labor.
Thanks to funds raised through the TriCounty Health Care Auxiliary’s Holiday Auction and Caring Heart Boutique gift shop, the Wadena Rehabilitation Clinic purchased a $5,000 bariatric treadmill. The new treadmill allows Wadena rehab to work with bariatric patients up to 550 pounds, whereas the old treadmill only allowed up to 300 pounds. This opens up the opportunity for rehab to treat basically any patient, according to Curt Brown, rehab manager.
Water birth
Specialists in Hydraulic Repair! Bertha, MN • 924-4100
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24
HYDRAULIC DOCTOR
Highway 10 East, Wadena Office: 218-631-2585 Home: 218-462-2585
EQUAL HOUSING
24
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25
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OPPORTUNITY
www.albersrealty.com 001534903r1
ne Construct o l a ion Inc. M LIC# BC714152
Ron Malone 218.639.2571 Wadena, MN
Isaac Malone 218.402.0928
www.maloneconstructioninc.net
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represents. Along with symbolizing good health, it signifies compassion, hope, love and harmony. Pink is also symbolic of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The hope of the event was to inspire women in local communities to live their best lives by focusing on their health.
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The Rising Phoenix
postpartum and certain primary care services for women from adolescence through menopause, such as well-woman exams. Midwives take a holistic approach, looking at the complete picture from mental health to socioeconomic status to family dynamics. Dahlgren-Roemmich attended medical school at the University of Minnesota and is board certified through the American College of Nurse Midwives.
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Keith VanOrsdel, Owner Hwy. 10 West • Wadena 631-4220
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JANSON FLYING SERVICE, INC. Flight and ground training available at the Wadena Municipal Airport.
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26
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27
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218-631-9049
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JEFFERSON HEARING AID CENTER CENTER HEARING AID
Call anytime for for appointment
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BrianHillesland, Hillesland,BC-HIS BC-HIS Brian
NationalBoard BoardCertified Certified National HearingInstrument InstrumentSpecialist Specialist Hearing
223 Wadena • • 631-4966 631-4966 or or Toll Toll Free Free1-800-631-4946 1-800-631-4946 223 N. Jefferson, Wadena
N B C
orthwest uilding
enter
Hwy. 71. N. Wadena (Next to Subway)
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► Ryan Scott, D.O. – Emergency Medicine ► Dawn Dahlgren-Roemmich – Certified Nurse Midwife, Wadena/Sebeka Clinics ► Jessica Anderson – Physician Assistant, Henning Clinic ► Christine Harff – Vice President of Patient Care Services ► Tom Pint – Director of Nursing ► Melinda Vonderahe – Director of Community Relations/Marketing ► Ryan Damlo – Foundation Executive Director ► Susan Marco – Provider Recruiter
Honors/Awards
► Tri-County Health Care received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Critical Access Hospital Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards, ► Received platinum recognition by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for promoting enrollment in state organ donor registries, ► Awarded a three-year term of accreditation in ultrasound by the American College of Radiology, ► Awarded a three-year term of accreditation in computed tomography (CT) by the American College of Radiology, ► Awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) by the American College of Radiology, ► Re-designated as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital through the Minnesota Department of Health’s Minnesota Stroke System.
Nursing staff
► Awarded a Good Catch for Patient Safety Award by the Minnesota Hospital Association Henning Clinic, ► Ranked as a top 15 performer in the state for courteous and helpful office staff and ranked above average in care coordination and access to care in the Minnesota Community Measurement’s 2017 Patient Experience of Care Survey.
Henning and Bertha clinics
► Recognized by Minnesota Bridges to Excellence for their improvements in optimal diabetes care.
About Tri-County Health Care
Tri-County Health Care is a private, notfor-profit health care system in Wadena. It offers care services such as minimally invasive surgery, cancer care, diagnostic imaging, obstetrics and rehabilitation. TriCounty operates a 25-bed hospital and medical clinic in Wadena, as well as six satellite clinics and three physical therapy clinics across Todd, Wadena and Otter Tail counties. Satellite clinic locations include Henning, Bertha, Ottertail, Sebeka, Verndale and Baxter. Visit TCHC.org.
NOTICE: WADENA COUNTY RESIDENTS PLEASE NOTE: It is illegal to place non-recyclable items in any recycling bin in Wadena County.
Non-recyclable items have been found in the Wadena County recycling bins on a regular basis. Placing these types of items in a recycling bin is illegal and costly, and repeated misuse of it will result in us removing bins. If anyone has information regarding the illegal use of the recycling bins, please call the Wadena County Sheriff’s Department at 218-631-7600 – you may remain anonymous. For information on proper disposal of the items, please call the Wadena County Department of Solid Waste at 218-631-2474. We appreciate everyone’s help in resolving these issues and we want to continue providing the citizens of Wadena County with recycling services.
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10-Star Auto Clinic 001540661r1
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March 1, 2018
RECYCLABLE ITEMS
NON-RECYCLABLE ITEMS
• Aluminum Cans-rinsed • Food cans-rinsed • Tin cans • Iron Cans • Aerosol cans (completely empty & nozzle removed) • Plastic Bottles • Laundry bottles (remove caps & lids) • Glass bottles/jars • Corrugated Cardboard • Newsprint • Magazines/Catalogs • Office Paper • Envelopes/brochures/coupons • Ledger paper • Wrapping paper • Books • Paperboard-cereal/food/pop boxes (recycle as paper) • Cardboard egg cartons (recycle as paper)
• TV tubes/ monitors/electronics/appliances/vacuums • Plastic housings from TV’s and vacuums, etc. • All unnumbered plastics/Lawn chairs/Kids toys • Household garbage including food waste • Fluorescent bulbs/batteries • Household hazardous waste-paint, cleaners, chemicals • Building materials (dirt, cement, rocks, wood, insulation, shingles, siding, vinyl siding) • Flooring (carpet, tile, wood, linoleum, etc.) • Cigarette butts/Q-Tips/Hair/Sponges • Glass cookware/bakeware/dishes/ceramic/porcelain • Waxed paper/waxed cardboard • Cat litter/ Animal/human waste • Diapers/Sanitary napkins/feminine products • Shoes/Clothing (any cloth materials) • Paper plates/napkins/paper towels/toilet paper • Mirrors/Windows or Auto Glass • Filters/furnace filters/oil filters • Styrofoam/packing peanuts • Bailing twine-plastic/hemp/sisal/silage or hay plastic • Christmas lights/trees/wreaths • Tires • NO BURNT ITEMS
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115 2nd Ave. NW., Bertha, MN 218-924-9200
On/Off Sale
Entertainment Friday and Saturday HAPPY HOUR DAILY 4pm-6pm and 10pm-11pm HOURS: Sunday thru Saturday - 11:00 am to close Breakfast served Saturday and Sunday Off Sale open seven days a week
TRY OUR TASTY BURGERS, STEAKS, AND APPETIZERS! DAILY SPECIALS! FOLLOW ALL THREE BUSINESSES ON FACEBOOK!
MEnterprises
F
INC
Escort & Transporting Services
Mark Fay 320-761-3035
Wadena, MN
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rreennddaa’’ss EW IImage MAGE NNew
B B
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767 Jefferson Jefferson St. St. North North • •Wadena, Wadena,MN MN 767 218-631-1623 218-631-1623 “Maintain Your Health Through Chiropractic Care”
GRUNST CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC DRS. JEFFREY & SHEILA GRUNST
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10 Bryant Avenue S.E. • Wadena, MN • 631-3382
10407 Navajo St., Wadena, MN 56482 218-631-3442 or 218-639-1511 For All Your Plumbing Needs: • New Construction • Remodeling • Repairs • Electric Sewer Cleaning • Automatic Sprinkling System
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Trees a Shrubs a Flowers a Landscape Supplies
N. on Hwy. 71 (3 Blks N of Marlins Small Engine on Louis St.) Wadena • 631-3616
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Terry Tumberg, EA
Tax & Accounting Services 11 2nd St. S.W., Wadena, MN
631-1534
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Pete’s Nursery & Landscaping
BLUFFTON BLUFFTON OIL OIL CO. CO.
• oil• changes • tires oil changes • tires • bulk delivery • bulk fuelfuel delivery • pay-at-the-pump gas service • pay-at-the-pump gas service • convenience store • convenience store
Open: Mon.-Fri. 7 am - 6 pm Sat. 7 am - Noon Sun. Closed
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QUALITY • SELECTION • VALUE • CONVENIENCE
101 Prospect St., Bluffton • 218.385.2595
101 Prospect St., Bluffton • 218.385.2595 Open: Mon.-Fri. 7 am - 6 pm • Sat. 7 am - Noon • Sun. Closed
MOENCH MOENCHBODY BODYSHOP SHOP Roman Moench, Owner • Wadena • 631-1718
Roman Moench, Owner • Wadena • 631-1718 www.moenchbodyshop,com www.moenchbodyshop.com • Collision Repair
lawnmowers
• Frame Straightening • Auto Glass • Insurance Work Welcome
lawnmowers
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Pioneer Journal File Photo Wadena State Bank is acquiring First National Bank in Wadena, the companies announced jointly. The banks will merge under the name Wadena State Bank
Wadena State Bank acquires First National Bank
DOUG’S PLUMBING
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March 1, 2018
• Collision Repair • Frame Straightening • Auto Glass • Insurance Work Welcome
PIONEER JOURNAL STAFF
Wadena State Bank is acquiring First National Bank in Wadena. In February, the banks jointly announced the signing of “a definitive agreement that provides for the acquisition by Wadena Bankshares, Inc., the holding company for Wadena State Bank, of FNB Acquisition Holding Corporation, the holding company for First National Bank in Wadena.” Immediately following the acquisition, the two banks merged into one charter under the name Wadena State Bank. “We are pleased to announce the combination of our two family-owned banks,” said Jeffrey Browne, Executive Vice President of Wadena State Bank. “Our banks share a similar culture and approach to community banking. Together we believe we can better serve our customers and the community in Wadena and surrounding areas.” Scott Pettit, President of First National Bank in Wadena, said, “First National Bank in Wadena has served its community for over 100 years. We understand the importance of a local community bank presence and I believe this transaction will help ensure that the Wadena community is well served for the next 100 years.” Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal Wadena State Bank bought the First National Bank in 2017 and later in the year the City of Wadena bought the First National Bank building. Plans are underway to remodel the First National building for use as the new city library.
As of Sept. 30, 2016, Wadena State Bank had approximately $123 million in assets and three branches serving the Bluffton, Deer Creek and Wadena communities in Minnesota. As of Sept. 30, 2016, First National Bank in Wadena had approximately $56 million in assets and one branch serving Wadena and its surrounding communities. The combined entity, operating as Wadena State Bank, expects to have assets of over $180 million. In the fall of 2017 the City of Wadena entered a purchase agreement with the Wadena State Bank for the former First National Bank building on Bryant Ave. SW. The city has since taken over ownership of the First National building and plans to turn it into the city’s new public library.
March 1, 2018
PROGRESS 2018
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310 Homecrest Ave. Wadena, MN 56482
218-631-4042
YEARS IN BUSINESS
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Chuck’s Auto Repair
YEARS IN BUSINESS
505 1/2 Colfax S.E., Wadena
631-1272
G
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38
Family Business for Over 61 Years
appa OIL
Gasoline - Diesel Fuel - Heating Fuel - Propane for FARM - HOME - BUSINESS
Photos by Brian Hansel / Pioneer Journal Friendly Rider Transit Director Jake Huebsch fields a question from Dispatcher Linda Ness at the Friendly Rider building on Harry-Rich Drive in Wadena.
Helping to ‘drive’ public transit traffic
Eagle Bend 218.738.5198
Wadena 218.631.3192
TRANSIT TO 12 ��
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38
Residential Construction New and Remodel
YEARS IN BUSINESS
218-639-0944
License #BC008370
001543832r1
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Residential/Commercial Cleaning Services Carpet and Furniture Cleaning Furnace Duct Cleaning – Housekeeping
YEARS IN BUSINESS
Fire, Water and Mold Disaster Restoration
ServiceMaster by Retka (218) 631-1094 Preferred vendor for most insurance companies
InstaScope - Mold Air Sampling 001490862r1
ERIC’S MACHINERY SALES (since 1979)
Diesel injection pump repair. Quality used farm equipment.
For pictures and prices of everything go to www.ericsmachinerysales.com
Eric Roggenkamp
39
YEARS IN BUSINESS
218-631-1930 Bluffton 001543722r1
42
Arleen A. Paulson, Broker FOR ALL OF YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS Wadena • 632-6103 www.paulsonagencyrealty.com 001693228r1
bhansel@wadenapj.com
When Jake Huebsch lacked wheels but needed a way to return to his home in Mankato, Minn., he turned to his phone. The Friendly Rider Transit Director had taken a load of family belongings on a oneway trip to Fargo. By making connections with his smartphone, he bought tickets from three different transportation services (Amtrak, light rail, bus) running between Fargo and Mankato. His $62.50 trip was set up with a gadget he could slip into his pocket. Huebsch believes it will not be long before the average rider has the same transportation acumen. “That is just the direction a lot of things are going,” Huebsch said. From the Friendly Rider headquarters on Harry-Rich Drive in Wadena, Huebsch is throwing his previous experience as a Mankato Transportation Planner behind the local public transit service. Does he have some ideas of his own? Oh, yeah. Huebsch believes traditional means of advertising like newspapers and radio are always going to be a good way to go, but Cozy Theater-goers are presently being treated to a couple videos pushing the Friendly Rider
service. What Huebsch would like to see is more people educated in the possibilities of public transit. Before Huebsch took over the reins, there were discussions about combining Friendly Rider and Becker County Transit. Becker County had purchased the same dispatching software as Friendly Rider. “That might be an opportunity to grow,” Huebsch said. “Meaning that if we had a contract with them, we’d do all their dispatching here.” Friendly Rider is not a new service to Wadena-area people, but the extent to which it can be tapped is still being realized. The service is using the same type of buses that are used at airports to get airline passengers between the airport terminal and their rental car service or their motel. Friendly Rider is still growing. Two years ago it provided 45,173 rides. In 2016 the ridership grew to 54,023. “We set a record in 2017 with 66,504 rides,” Huebsch said. Friendly Rider will soon have a new website for its passengers. “You’ll be able to request rides instead of having to call in. There will be a feature
Parkers Prairie 218.338.4391
63731 Cree Trail, Wadena, MN
Technology helping growth of Friendly Rider BY BRIAN HANSEL
YEARS IN BUSINESS
Larry’s Family Pizza
Downtown Wadena • 631-4182 Open Mon-Thurs 11 am-9 pm Fri, Sat, Sun 11am-10 pm In Town Delivery From 11 am to close Daily!
Pizza • Burgers • Salads • Chicken 001543867r1
YEARS IN BUSINESS
43
YEARS IN BUSINESS
PROGRESS 2018
Page 12
45
YEARS IN BUSINESS
BROGARD
Plumbing • Heating • Excavating 306 Industrial Drive
Henning, MN
Brian Brogard • Robert Johnson
218-583-2041 LIC. NO. 004994PM
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46
YEARS IN BUSINESS
49
YEARS IN BUSINESS
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45
YEARS IN BUSINESS
March 1, 2018
Apply Online At shearers.com Human Resources O: 218.346.7000 F: 218.346.7017 Shearer’s Foods 400 Lakeside Dr. Perham, MN 56573
Better Together Everyday
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JIM’S BODY SHOP, INC. PRO AUTO SALES 12236 HIGHWAY 10 E AST WADENA , MN 56482
(218) 631-1037
001541817r1
David & Joe Rousslang, Owners
1207 N. Jefferson St. • Wadena, MN 218-631-2182 • Fax: 218-631-4509
Inc.
Piloting America’s Highways with Pride.
2015 - 2017 2015 Ridership - 2017 Ridership Totals Totals 70,000
70,000
60,000
60,000
50,000
50,000
40,000
40,000
30,000
30,000
20,000
20,000
10,000
10,000
0
0
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66,409 66,409
54,023 54,023 45,173 45,173
2015
2015
2016
2016
2017
2017
Friendly Rider buses fulfill a number of transportation needs for area residents. The growing public transit service is on track to provide more than 60,000 rides in 2017.
Dayton Ave. and 1st St. SW Wadena • 218-631-3928 Sunday Worship 10:00 am
�� T RANSIT FROM 11
St. Helens Episcopal Church was built in 1896. It is the oldest permanent church building in use in Wadena today. St. Helen’s remains dedicated to the spiritual growth of the surrounding communities as evidenced by the various opportunities provided to the citizens of this area. 001690406r1
See us for
“Heavy Truck Repair”
on Grain Trucks Over the Road Semi Trucks & Trailers Jim & Shari Haberer
In-Store Tire Sales 300 Industrial Drive • Henning, MN
218-583-4545
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TNT REPAIR, INC.
where you can request tickets for bus rides online,” Huebsch said. Wadena and Staples are the two main communities that Friendly Rider serves, but there are many others, as well. Friendly Rider buses visit 17 communities between Brainerd and Ottertail. Seniors who have given up their car keys but still want the independence of living in their own homes make up a lot of the ridership. Tickets can be purchased with a phone call to Friendly Rider. A woman in California has kept her elderly mother mobile by purchasing tickets for her by phone from the Golden State. Along with the mobility is a type of independence Huebsch knows is very important to the elderly. “We have been pretty successful,” Huebsch said, giving his predecessor, Ryan Damlo, a full measure of credit. Friendly Rider is a public transit service, funded in large part by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. That means anyone with the price of a ticket can ride. Some are employees of
certain businesses in Wadena. A good deal of their riders are school-aged. Huebsch is adamant that when younger riders are aboard they become the priority. Wi-fi has been added to Friendly Rider buses, just as it has been to some school buses, for the benefit of the young riders. Audio and video resources keep the Friendly Rider staff informed as to what is happening aboard each of the buses. Friendly Rider operates seven buses (with a new one coming this spring) and employs 15 drivers. The staff knows exactly where each of their buses is located at all times, thanks to computer software. That is a resource some riders would like the company to share, but right now that technology is still “down the road,” Huebsch said, but it is coming. “We get calls asking, ‘Where is the bus?’ and I think people expect some of those technology things,” Huebsch said. Safety, efficiency and timeliness are all important in the world of public transit. “I think it’s becoming more reliable,” Huebsch said. “I think over time people are just becoming more aware of the opportunities.”
PROGRESS 2018
March 1, 2018
Page 13
Karvonen Funeral Home crematory allows for added care in one location PIONEER JOURNAL STAFF
KARVONEN TO 14 ��
Adele Lausten, RN, Owner
Rhonda Koehler, RN, Owner
The owners of Lake Country Home Care have over 60 combined years of nursing and caregiving experience in the lakes area. • Personal Care Attendant • Companionship • Laundry/Homemaking
• Grocery Shopping/Meal Prep • Mobility, Transfer & Positioning • Respite Care Individualized. Compassionate. Serving Central MN. Call Today.
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The addition of an on-site crematorium at Karvonen Funeral Home in Wadena has allowed the business to better serve the community in the last year. The addition allows visitors to view or even participate in the cremation process of their loved ones. Greg and Suzi Karvonen opened the funeral home in 2016. Located at 419 Second Street NE, it was formerly the Wadena Evangelical Church. A 14-ton cremation retort, or chamber, was delivered to the funeral home in the summer of 2016. Once the retort was placed, construction began on the building to enclose the equipment. Matthews Cremation built the chamber and remotely monitors all cremations from Florida as they are taking place, said Greg Karvonen. “The rise in need of cremation in our area is the reason we decided to have our own on-site crematory at the Wadena location,” he added. About 30 percent of people in the area are choosing cremation, and that number is rising. A lot of planning went into the addition and a special room was added to provide an opportunity for families to have a viewing with the deceased as a final opportunity to say goodbye. A room with a window and curtains allows families to view the crematorium and watch the casket enter the chamber.
218-385-3422
Pioneer Journal File Photos Suzi and Greg Karvonen stand near the crane that placed the 14-ton cremation retort on the Karvonen Funeral Home property in northeast Wadena last summer.
• Estate Planning • Family Law • Real Estate • Personal Injury • General Practice www.pemlaw.com ph: Matthew S. Van Bruggen A viewing room is available for families who want to see the cremation.
Daniel T. Carlisle
218-631-1400 Wadena, MN 001690004r1
PROGRESS 2018
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March 1, 2018
Rick’s Barber Shop 631-3424
324 Jefferson St. S., Wadena, MN
YEARS IN BUSINESS
Only barber left in town! Over 90 years same shop, 51 years same barber!
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“The Prescription Store”
YEARS IN BUSINESS
LONGBELLA DRUG Health Needs • Cards Gifts • Cosmetics
421 E. 2nd Ave. • Staples (218) 894-2242 Lakewood Clinic • Staples (218) 894-8761 1233 S. Hwy. 10 • Motley (218) 352-6337 631 W. Hwy. 210 • Pillager (218) 746-4321 001467589r1
Fresh Freeze
59
YEARS IN BUSINESS
Four Pharmacy Locations
Enjoy our food and ice cream today!
Hwy. 71 North • Wadena • 631-1294
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Celebrating 55 years of service!
Submitted photos The chapel room at Karvonen Funeral Home in Wadena seats 265, not including a balcony which seats another 60.
63
�� K ARVONEN FROM 13 001665476r1
YEARS IN BUSINESS
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According to the Karvonens, about 85 percent of people choose to view their loved one before cremation. Cremations can take 90 minutes to about three hours. “The rate of cremation has increased and the need has risen for these services,” Suzi Karvonen said. “By offering these services here, your loved one will never leave our care.”
That’s the GigLife.
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001380385r1
800-945-2163 | 218-837-5151 | www.wcta.net
David & Joe Rousslang, Owners
Inc.
1207 N. Jefferson St. Wadena, MN 218-631-2182 Fax: 218-631-4509
Piloting America’s Highways with Pride.
001378618r1
The kids room at Karvonen Funeral Home is a popular addition to the facility.
The Karvonen Funeral Home is the only one on Highway 10 from St. Cloud to Fargo complete with an on-site crematory, and the only one to allow visitors to view the cremation process. Another unique feature of the funeral home is the presence of comfort dogs, Sylvi, an English bulldog, Entsi, a French bulldog, and Art, a red fox lab. The Karvonens are both dog lovers and they said the presence of the dogs helps bring comfort to many people entering their doors. Art even accompanies Greg on about 95 percent of his calls, helping to bring comfort right at the start of the process. The Karvonens took an eight-hour course to become certified to operate the crematorium, a requirement in Minnesota. While cremations are being done, Matthews Cremation monitors the process, checking on exhaust, temperature and fuel consumption. The funeral home offers a variety of urns to hold the remains after cremation. Custom engraving and other personal touches can be added to urns. Karvonens also offers amenities for a traditional funeral service with a variety of casket selections, burial vaults, a chapel with seating for up to 300 people, and video tributes. The facility also offers a children’s play room and on-site kitchen with the option for catering and a gathering space with seating for 125 people. Pre-planning of funerals is becoming more common, and Karvonens offers services to make those arrangements.
Celebrating 100 years of banking in 2017, Wadena State Bank is “your” community bank dedicated to providing full service banking to families and businesses in Central Minnesota. March 1, 2018
HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT
PROGRESS 2018
Page 15
1915 – W.J. Browne moves his family to Wadena and is employed as the Cashier for Merchants National Bank. Celebrating 100 years of banking in 2017, Wadena State Bank is “your” community bank dedicated to Merchants providing Bank full service bankingWadena to families andState businesses 1917 – W.J. Browne leaves and establishes County Bank. in Central Minnesota.
1929 – Wadena County State Bank weathers the stock market crash.
1950 – J.M. (Jack) Browne moves back to Wadena after college and begins working for Wadena 1915 – W.J. Browne moves his family to Wadena and is employed as the Cashier for Merchants County State Bank. JackNational becomes President of the bank in 1961. Bank.
HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT
1917 –in W.J. Browne leaves Merchants Bank and establishes Wadena County State Bank. bank 100 1957years – The bank name is shortened to Wadena StateState Bank. Celebrating of banking 2017, Wadena Bank is “your” community 1929 Wadena County Bank weathers theAlvida stock market crash. – C.J. (Kip) Browne and– Jeffrey A. Browne, sons of Jack & Browne, purchase Wadena dedicated to 1995 providing full service banking toState families and businesses in Central Minnesota.
State Bank.
1950 – J.M. (Jack) Browne moves back to Wadena after college and begins working for Wadena County State Bank. Jack becomes President of the bank in 1961.
2002 – Wadena State Bank purchases Security State Bank of Bluffton and Deer Creek.
1957 – The bank name is shortened to Wadena State Bank. HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT HISTORICAL SNAPSHOT
2017 –his Wadena State purchases FirstasNational Bank in Wadena. Bank 1995 –family C.J. (Kip) andJeffrey sons Jack & Alvida Browne, purchase Wadena 1915 – W.J.Browne family to Wadena and is employed 1957 –Browne, The bank name is shortened to Wadena State Bank. 1915moves – W.J. Browne moves his toBrowne Wadena and isA.employed asofthe Cashier for Merchants State Bank. the Cashier for Merchants National Bank. 1995 – C.J. (Kip) Browne and Jeffrey A. Browne, sons of Jack & Nationalof Bank. AtBrowne year-end 2017, Wadena State has branches in Bluffton, Deer Creek, Wadena, has 35 employees and 2002 – Bank Wadena State Bank purchases Security State Bank ofWadena Bluffton and Deer Creek. Alvida Browne, purchase State Bank. 1917 – W.J. leaves Merchants Bank establishes Wadena 1917 – W.J. Browne leaves Merchants Bank and establishes Wadena County State Bank. and offers a full array of mobile banking technology. As the graphs below indicate, the positive growth of County State Bank. 2002 – Wadena State purchases Security State Bank of 2017 – Wadena State Bank purchases First National BankBank in Wadena. Wadena State Bank is a direct result ofmarket loyal crash. customer support. Wadena State Bank would like to thank all 1929 – Wadena County State Bank weathers the stock Bluffton and Deer Creek. 1929 – Wadena County State Bank weathers the stock market crash. Attoyear-end 2017, Wadena StateBank has– branches in Bluffton, Deer Creek, Wadena, hasBank 35 employees customers for their over of the years! 1950 – J.M. (Jack) Browne movesbusiness back Wadena after college 2017 Wadena State Bank purchases First National 1950 – J.M. (Jack) Browne moves back to Wadena after college and begins working for Wadena and offers a full array of mobile banking technology. As the graphs below indicate, the positive growth of and begins working for Wadena County State Bank. Jack becomes in Wadena. Wadena State Bank is a direct result of loyal customer support. Wadena State Bank would like to thank all County State Bank. Jack becomes President of the bank in 1961. President of the bank in 1961. TOTAL LOANS TOTAL DEPOSITS TOTAL ASSETS (in millions)
customers for their business over the years! (in millions)
(in millions)
172
1957 – TheState bank name is shortened to Wadena State Bank. At year-end of2017, Wadena 155 TOTAL LOANS TOTAL DEPOSITS TOTAL ASSETS Bank has branches in Bluffton, Deer 1995 – C.J. (Kip) Browne and Jeffrey A. Browne, sons of Jack(in&millions) Alvida Browne, purchase Wadena (in millions) (in millions) 172 116 Creek, Wadena, has 35 employees 155 State Bank. 103 98 and offers a full array of mobile 2002 – Wadena State Bank purchases116Security State Bank of Bluffton and103Deer Creek. banking technology. As the graphs 70 68 98 52 below indicate, the positive 50 growth 42 70 2017 – Wadena State Bank purchases First National Bank in Wadena. 39 68 of Wadena State Bank is a direct 52 50 17 42 39 result of loyal customer support. 2000 2010 1990 1990 2000 19902017, 2000 Wadena 2010 2017 17 2017 Deer Creek, year-end State Bank has branches in2010 Bluffton, Wadena, has 352017 employees WadenaAtState Bank of would like 2000 2010 2017 1990 1990 2000 2010 2017 1990 2000 2010 2017 to thank alloffers customers theirof mobile banking technology. As the graphs below indicate, the positive growth of and a fullforarray things in business are never done are by one person. They’re done by adone team ofteam people.” businessWadena over“Great the years! “Great things business doneWadena by one person. They’re by a to of people.” State Bank is a direct result of in loyal customernever support. State Bank would like thank all - Steve Jobs, Co-Founder of Apple,ofInc. - Steve Jobs, Co-Founder Apple, Inc. customers for their business over the years! TOTAL ASSETS (in millions)
172
155
116
103
BLUFFTON | DEER CREEK | WADENA
42
39 2000
98
70
68 50 1990
Lending Services Include:Real Consumer, Real Estate, Lending Services Include: Consumer, Estate, TOTAL DEPOSITS LineLoans, of Credit, AgGuarantees Loans, FSA Guarantees Operating Line ofOperating Credit, Ag FSA & SBA Financing, Bank Participations. (in millions) & SBA Financing, Bank Participations.
TOTAL LOANS (in millions)
2010
2017
17 1990
2000
52
www.wadenastatebank.com BLUFFTON | DEER CREEK | WADENA 2010
2017
2000 2010 2017 1990 www.wadenastatebank.com
“Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.” - Steve Jobs, Co-Founder of Apple, Inc. Lending Services Include: Consumer, Real Estate, Operating Line of Credit, Ag Loans, FSA Guarantees & SBA Financing, Bank Participations.
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PROGRESS 2018
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March 1, 2018
Living in the golden years: The Meadows of Wadena opens its doors BY BRIAN HANSEL
A VARIETY OF POSITIONS ON ALL SHIFTS Starting Pay Rate
bhansel@wadenapj.com
$14.46/hr differential
plus $1 shift
To apply online or view other available positions please visit:
www.shearers.com or call us at:
001694895r1
218-346-7000
Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal Paul Abzug is president of Housing Development Alternatives Company which constructed the senior assisted living facility for $5.3 million.
001693908r1
MERICKEL LUMBER & ACE HARDWARE
Paul Abzug said he “stumbled” into an opportunity when he came through Wadena looking for a site to build independent senior living on. What the Deephaven, Minn. businessman realized was that Wadena was really wanting for assisted senior living. Some research confirmed the community had only one facility of that type. As president of Housing Alternatives Development Company, Abzug started the ball rolling on a $5.3 million project on Hemlock Avenue in northwest Wadena. Construction of the 49-unit senior living facility began last February. One year later, The Meadows of Wadena officially opened. HADC owns three other “campuses” in Minnesota that meet a variety of requirements for their residents. Two are in New Ulm and the third is in Cloquet. Since opening their first facility in 1998, Abzug and his company have gained some interesting insights into senior living. He said one of the most difficult transitions for seniors and their children is moving from a private home to one where
they can get help and care. They hate losing that independence. Abzug recalled when his father had to give up his driver’s license because his
631-3570 • 800-225-3570 M-F 7:30-5 • Sat 8-12 Sunday CLOSED
merickellumber.com Hwy. 10 West • Wadena, MN 56482
Kim Brasel / Pioneer Journal The Meadows of Wadena is a new Senior Living facility located at 110 Hemlock Ave NW.
PROGRESS 2018
March 1, 2018
Page 17
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Serving the area for 63 years! DOWNTOWN WADENA • 218-631-3066 Mon.-Fri. 9-5 • Thurs. 9-7 • Sat. 9-4
63
YEARS IN BUSINESS
63
949 North Jefferson Wadena, MN 631-1660
YEARS IN BUSINESS
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AN EMPLOYEE OWNED BUSINESS SERVING YOU FOR 63 YEARS
RUSS DAVIS WHOLESALE Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
Phone (218) 631-3070 • Fax (218) 631-9024 266 4th Street N.E. • P.O. Box 272 • Wadena, MN 56482 www.russdaviswholesale.com
001693229r1
Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal Residents of The Meadows of Wadena will be served their meals in a dining area adjacent to an outdoor courtyard.
“Your Watch & Diamond Specialists”
“I judge our quality not on our furnishing, but on our care,” he said. A non-profit company, Housing Alternatives will have 23 to 25 people on staff. Abzug faces a daily challenge of holding on to good workers because he cannot afford to pay them like an independent facility can. The Meadows of Wadena will be offering apartments and assisted care to seniors with low incomes. “Roughly 40-50 percent are low income,” Abzug said.
Digital? Stay up-to-date with local
Downtown Wadena 631-3294 Internet
TV
Phone
Security
YEARS IN BUSINESS
888.99.ARVIG | arvig.com
68
Try a Faster Speed Today! Announcing the all new
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YEARS IN BUSINESS
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Wadena Federal Stay up-to-date with local and up-to-date national news with Credit Union Stay with local P.O. BOX 307 • WADENA, MN 56482 and national news with (218) 631-1401 our national e-edition newspaper. and news with our e-edition newspaper. •SAVINGS •LOANS •CHECKING our e-edition newspaper. Go to wadenapj.com and click Go to wadenapj.com and click “Subscribe Now” to sign up. “Subscribe Now” sign up. Go to wadenapj.com and clickto “Subscribe Now” to sign up.
PioneerJournal Journal Pioneer Your Community Newspaper Since 1877
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Wadena
Your Community Newspaper Since 1877
001605047r2
Wadena
YEARS IN BUSINESS
67
Computer Repair
001487424r1
Want Want Digital?
64
Brink’s Jewelry 001541815r1
reactions were too slow. It was tough for his father to surrender his driving privileges, even after a doctor spoke to him about it. The Meadows of Wadena has single and double occupancy rooms and amenities like an outdoor courtyard, a dining room and a commons area with a fireplace. “Our goal is to keep people from being in their apartments, except to sleep,” Abzug said. The last thing Abzug wants is a campus which has the look and feeling of an institution, yet what appeals to the eye is not his No. 1 priority.
63
YEARS IN BUSINESS
PO Box 470 • Wadena, MN • 218-631-1753 001534908r1
70
YEARS IN BUSINESS
72
YEARS IN BUSINESS
PROGRESS 2018
Page 18 Top Prices for Cans, Iron & Scrap Metal! PLUS - Roll-Off Container Service • Recycling
WADENA HIDE & FUR Hwy. 10 West • Wadena 218-631-2617 • 800-450-2617 Open: M-F 8-5 • Sat. 8-noon
001543835r1
72
YEARS IN BUSINESS
March 1, 2018
78
YEARS IN BUSINESS
79
YEARS IN BUSINESS
COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION, HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING.
Serving Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Warehouses, Restaurants and Bars, Ice Arenas, and more.
• SINCE 1939 •
Reach In and Walk In Coolers and Freezers, Ice Machines, Refrigerated Store Fixtures, Ice Cream Machines.
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79
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Centered on you.
Financial solutions centered on you.
YEARS IN BUSINESS
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MERICKEL LUMBER & DESIGN CENTER 218-631-3570 • 800-225-3570
Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal Annette Schmedlin cut up sample-sized pieces of Kuchen for her customers. Schmedlin is “Oma” to her daughter Yvonne’s five children. It has been her dream to open her own business.
M-F 8-5 • SAT 8-12 HWY. 10 WEST WADENA, MN 56482
YEARS IN BUSINESS
www.merickellumber.com
84
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WADENA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “We are partners in the success of our businesses and our members” 218-632-7704 www.wadenachamber.com
YEARS IN BUSINESS
BY BRIAN HANSEL bhansel@wadenapj.com
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86
Photography
By Kimberly Woods
YEARS IN BUSINESS
215 S Jefferson • 218.631.3129 rexstudiophotography.com 001519119r1
YEARS IN BUSINESS
Find us on Facebook: RexStudioPhotography
Leaf River Ag Service BLUFFTON • WADENA Agronomy Office: 631-1020 Feed Department: 385-2559 Bulk Fuel & Propane: 631-1020
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Oma’s Bread is a ‘dream come true’ for mother, daughter The Wadena community got a treat this past summer with the opening of Oma’s Bread. “Oma” is the German word for “Grandma,” and the grandma in this business is Annette Schmedlin of Bertha, Minn. She’s a transplant from Germany, just like her daughter, Yvonne Willis. While baked goods are around, the business operates as more than that. “It’s going to be like a bistro,” Yvonne said. “The building is fantastic. The remodel they did, they did a really nice job.” Yvonne Willis
Oma’s Bread opened Aug. 14 and provides Wadena with a downtown bakery for the first time in several years. It is located in a strip mall on the corner of Jefferson Street and Aldrich Avenue. Yvonne said she and her mother have never run a bakery, but in doing so they are living a dream. “It’s her dream and I’m just helping her make it come true,” Yvonne said. Yvonne came to Wadena County in 2003 as a foreign exchange student at Verndale. Unlike most exchange students, she never returned to her home country. She married and stayed in Minnesota. Her five children were all born here and attend school in Bertha. Yvonne grew up in Freiburg, a city of 220,000 in the Black Forest region of OMA’S BREAD TO 19 ��
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all heart Caring for you isn’t just our purpose. It’s our privilege.
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Photos by Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal The Owly Coffee Company is located on Ash Avenue in Wadena across the street from the Wadena County Fairgrounds. The business can handle both walk-in and drive-through customers.
From the bean to the brain
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The magic of coffee is proven every day. From a small, brown bean ground into a granular texture and then mixed with water, milk, mocha, syrup and perhaps a few other ingredients, can come a smile where before might only have been a grumpy frown. This is what Kyle Hagen and Kara Collom had in mind as they prepared to open the Owly Coffee Company last August. A drive-through coffee business fits neatly into the working day for both Hagen and Collom. Hagen is also the owneroperator of the Uptown Restaurant in downtown Wadena. Since the early morning hours are when the most coffee is served, their customers at the Uptown will not be neglected.
When Hagen got wind that the owner of Modern Touch Design, Boutique and Coffee Shop on Highway 10 wanted to sell the coffee shop, he saw an opportunity. “Coffee — it’s something everyone is going to try sooner or later,” Hagen said. Hagen also had a partner in mind, the Uptown’s bar manager. Collom has proven herself to be everything Hagen wants from an employee, with reliability being one of her strengths. “Kara is a great worker,” Hagen said. “I would never have asked someone to come in on this if they didn’t have their ducks in a row.” Hagen is excited about branching out. He had come to know the Modern Touch OWLY COFFEE TO 20 ��
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southern Germany. Her mother ran a hotel. Annette and her husband, Martin, decided to move to Minnesota four years ago to be close to their daughter and her family. “They wanted to help with the grandkids,” Yvonne said. Yvonne said there is a tradition in their family that every Sunday afternoon, no matter what, they get together to have coffee and cake. For the last three years, Yvonne and Annette have been selling their baked goods at farmer’s markets around the area while nursing a dream of having a location of their own where people could come to see them work.
In addition to six different kinds of German-style bread, the German bakery offers Quiche (a savory, open pastry crust with a filling of custard and either cheese, meat, seafood or vegetables). Kuchen (custard pie with different fruit fillings) and a variety of seasonal dishes including Slammenkuchen (onion and bacon pizza), spice cake and big, soft pretzels. Yvonne said the business imports some spices from Germany, and they make their own cream cheese. Customers are able to watch the baking process. While the owners of the new bakery are both from Bertha, Yvonne considers Wadena to be a great place for their business. “It’s a nice, small community,” Yvonne said.
101 YEARS IN BUSINESS
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Weber’s Wadena
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Successful coffee business is new venture for Hagen, Collom BY BRIAN HANSEL
Jolene Johannes, Agent Jolene Jolene JoleneJohannes, Johannes, Johannes,Agent Agent Agent 631-1297 631-1297 631-1297 631-1297 or 1-800-450-1297 or or or1-800-450-1297 1-800-450-1297 1-800-450-1297 763 Jefferson St. N 763 763 763Jefferson Jefferson JeffersonSt. St. St.N N N Wadena Wadena Wadena Wadena
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116 YEARS IN BUSINESS
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120 122 YEARS IN BUSINESS
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DAYTON AVE. AND 1ST ST. SW WADENA • 218-631-3928 SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00 AM St. Helen’s is a historic fieldstone Episcopal Church that was built in 1896. It is the oldest permanent church building in use in Wadena today.
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Kyle Hagen and Kara Collom began operating the Owly Coffee Company on Highway 10 in Wadena in early August. They plan to balance their time between the coffee company and their work at the Uptown Cafe where Hagen is the owner-operator and Collom is the bar manager.
operation through his wife, who is a big coffee lover. “I’m excited to learn new things,” said Hagen, who has been in the restaurant business since leaving the teaching profession and feels confident about the new business. “It’s still very much in our realm; it’s all in making the product.” While ownership is a new venture for Collom, she feels good about her partner in the coffee shop and she believes working with people and an extrovert like Hagen will be good for her in overcoming her natural shyness. “He’s the best boss I’ve ever had,” Collom said.
Joseph and Meg Schuller - owners
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Fun Facts About U.S. Coffee Consumption ► 65% of coffee consumption takes place during breakfast hours
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► 58% of coffee drinkers brew their coffee the same way every morning
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► 72% of coffee drinkers take their coffee with dairy or nondairy creamer, which
means 28% drink their coffee black
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► 55% of coffee drinkers would rather gain 10 pounds than give up coffee for life ► 52% of coffee drinkers would rather go without a shower in the morning than give
A Great Place to Learn and Grow!
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up coffee
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Pioneer Journal
Kara Collom served Neal Malcore of Oylen a hot concoction on a chilly February morning at the Owly Coffee Company. Collum and Kyle Hagen have owned the Owly Coffee Company on Highway 10 in Wadena since last August.
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► 49% of coffee drinkers would rather give up their cell phone for a month than go
without coffee ► Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee per day, equivalent to 146 billion cups of coffee per year, making the United States the leading consumer of coffee in the world ► Coffee represents 75% of all the caffeine consumed in the United States ► The United States imports more than $4 billion dollars’ worth of coffee each year — Kitchen Daily
March 1, 2018
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O’Kane Dental focuses on patient-centered approach BY MICHAEL JOHNSON mjohnson@wadenapj.com
Seeking ways to better serve those in need of dental care, Dr. Christopher O’Kane chose to create a new facility that functioned around the needs of patients and staff. The location of O’Kane Dental on Juniper Ave., across from Walmart, seems to be doing just that. O’Kane, a native of Battle Lake, Minn., has been working with his staff at the new location since October and said he is pleased at how things turned out. From the large parking area to having everything on one level to having enough room for the ever changing technology, O’Kane said it’s helping them serve patients better. “In my old location I was running out of space,” O’Kane said. “I was unable to use some of the technology that I’ve used.” When he set to work designing the building, he wanted to get as much space out of a room as he could while keeping the rooms small enough to be able to reach what he needed without too much moving around. He achieved that by grouping certain technologies together. “We really like the building,” O’Kane said. “It’s functional, not too fancy.” The building includes five operatory rooms and one surgical suite. The operatory rooms are not overcrowded, and all areas are handicap accessible.
“We’re trying to stay in a patientcentered approach,” O’Kane said. For the wheelchair-bound patient who wishes to stay in their wheelchair, there is room to move the operating chairs and bring in a wheelchair. And for those coming in for some major dental work, like having wisdom teeth removed, there is a surgical suite for them. This suite includes its own exit with a parking area, so patients fresh out of surgery don’t have to walk back through the building past others in the waiting room. The staff includes two dental hygienists, three dental assistants, a secretary and O’Kane. O’Kane said the facility was built to allow for another physician, but at this point, he remains the only dentist in the building. While the staff have a great deal of technology at their fingertips, O’Kane said the next thing to come to the office will be a 3D printer, which will allow them to create all sorts of dental implants. That will add to the long list of options O’Kane Dental provides, which includes bonding, CEREC one-visit crowns, crowns and bridges, dental cleaning, extractions, fillings, gum treatments, halitosis treatment, implant placement and restoration, dentures, night guards and athletic mouth guards, root canal, sealants, TMJ treatment, laser dentistry, telescopic loupe, veneers, whitening, wisdom teeth,
CEREC, soprocam, digital imaging, electronic claims, intraoral camera, paperless charting and x-rays/digital x-rays. O’Kane has been serving patients in Wadena since 1998. He and his wife, Sarah, chose this area because of the proximity to their families and for the charm of the small towns of central Minnesota, a place they enjoyed spending their weekends. O’Kane obtained a degree in biology from St. John’s University. He earned his
Honesty. Respect. Professionalism. Courtesy
D.D.S. from the University of Minnesota, and has continued his education, attending hundreds of hours of classes as well as studying at the Pankey Institute and the Scottsdale Center for Dentistry. He enjoys the challenges and rewards of treating a diverse group of people. He has developed a skill set which includes first visits to the dentist, transition from child to adult, and maintenance of adults to geriatric care. He and his wife have three daughters, Allison, Erin and Jordan.
It’s how we treat all our customers. And it’s what you can expect from every State Farm® agent, along with personal help with your insurance and financial needs. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CONTACT AN AGENT TODAY.
Johannes Insurance Agcy Inc Jolene Johannes, Agent 763 Jefferson Street North Wadena, MN 56482 Bus: 218-631-1297
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LEAF RIVER AG IS GEARING UP FOR SPRING ALL YOUR SPRING CROP INPUT NEEDS Ordering Baby Chickens Photo courtesy Erickson Technologies The waiting room at O’Kane Dental provides a comfortable setting for those visiting.
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March 1, 2018
Just Teasin’ owners broaden hours to accommodate more walk-in traffic PIONEER JOURNAL STAFF
Sarah Resch and Carol Hudalla believe you don’t have to be related by blood to be sisters. The two friends have run a hair salon in Wadena called Just Teasin’ since February 2017, but have been well acquainted since long before then. Their association goes back 18 years, when they trained together at M StateWadena. Later, they both worked at Brenda’s New Image. After Hudalla took a job at another salon, Resch started thinking about making a move herself. She also wanted to team up with her classmate and friend once more. “We found we couldn’t live without each other,” Hudalla laughed. Resch had no experience in running a business, but when she found a place on North Jefferson near the busy Highway 10-Highway 71 junction and showed it to Hudalla, the pieces quickly fell into place. Hudalla, who had operated her own shop in Long Prairie for eight years, jumped at the chance to reunite with her pal. “I said, ‘Let’s do it,’” she smiled. After fixing up their shop with the furnishings andJrnl decor they wanted, Wadena Generations Feb 2018.pdf 1 the partners started operating. With nearly two decades of experience in
the business and some loyal customers and friends to serve, they have hit the ground running. “It’s been going real good,” Resch said. “A lot of your clients also become your friends.” Just Teasin’ is a family-oriented place where a flat screen television is available to entertain the children of clients who find themselves pulling double duty. Resch and Hudalla will also bring their own children to the shop from time to time. It all adds up to a lot of conversation and interaction when the shop gets busy. Hudalla is a natural when the place fills up. “Carol is spunky, outgoing and fun to be around,” Resch laughed. “She just talks.” Resch is somewhat an opposite of her vivacious partner, but she has a personality Hudalla has always appreciated. “She is a very mellow, very easy person to work with,” Hudalla said. They each buy and maintain their own supply of hair products and freely share with each other. Both attend hair shows where new styles, techniques and products are Brian Hansel/Pioneer Journal introduced. Sarah Resch and Carol Hudalla are former M-State-Wadena classmates who opened their own The business is open 10 a.m. to 5 2/19/18 11:43 PM hair salon, Just Teasin’, in February 2017. The business operates up to six days a week on North p.m. Monday-Friday and Saturday by Jefferson Street in Wadena. appointment. They encourage walk-ins.
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We are proud of… • 4-Star-Rated Preschool
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• 2014 Elementary
“Reward School” for academic achievement.
• ENVoY-certified school
and training site for classroom management skills and strategies.
PROGRESS 2018
Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools provides students with many opportunities to grow, succeed and become well-rounded youth. At WDC, we encourage a love of learning, collaboration, and compassion for others!
Unique opportunities available to students: • WDC partners with NJPA,
Central Lakes and M|State to provide Tech Mobile activities.
• WDC partners with
Staples-Motley and Verndale school districts to provide CEO program for high school students.
• Advisory program in
grades 7-12 that focuses on community service among students and staff.
• FIRST robotics program
• Multiple participants
for high school students, competing at the regional competition each year.
in state and national competitions in BPA, FFA, and FCCLA.
• Through Project Lead
• Community collaborations
the Way, the district offers engineering, manufacturing and computer design classes.
– Day of Caring and Lunch with Law Enforcement
• 2017 State and Section
participants in Volleyball, Track & Field, Cross Country, Wrestling, Girls’ Golf, Trap, One-Act Play and AllAmerican Cheerleaders
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For more information on what WDC offers, visit www.wdc2155.k12.mn.us or LIKE us on Facebook at Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools.
• School greenhouses
offer students educational and work opportunities for students and fresh produce for school lunches.
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