Progress Guide

2016 PROGRESS february 25, 2016

A look back at 2015... local events technology changes business news milestones

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

THE wadena pioneer journal

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PROGRESS 2016

February 25, 2016

113 2nd Ave. NW, Bertha, MN 218-924-9200

On Sale and Off Sale

Entertainment Friday and Saturday Happy Hour Daily 4pm-6pm and 10pm-11pm

TRY OUR TASTY BURGERS, PASTAS, STEAKS AND APPETIZERS!

M Enterprises

F

INC

Escort & Transporting Services Mark Fay 320-761-3035

Wadena, MN 001382737r1

February 25, 2016

Community Progress

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We are your

geothermal experts!

‘The Mas’ expanding offerings as year two begins at center Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Just over one year since its opening, ‘The Mas’ continues to be busy with activities for all ages.

Maslowski Research and Wellness Center facility director Eric Robb said the number of memberships is at about 1,200.

It was a pleasant surprise for the first year, he said.

Before opening the facility there was no way to know how many memberships to expect but the number 500 was thrown out for budgeting purposes, Robb said. Current membership is more than double.

Many people have renewed their memberships and others continue to come in for renewals, Robb said.

Initially, the facility wasn’t going to have 24-hour access but that feature was added.

It’s been great for people who want to get to the facility early or late to get a workout in, Robb said.

Groups have been utilizing the facility as a meeting place as well. The lobby meeting room, especially, is used frequently. Robb is also excited about partnerships that have been made.

“Grace Connections is renting the facility Sunday mornings for church services and the school (Wadena-Deer Creek) is renting the gym for students to use,” he said.

Lisa Anderson was hired in the fall

and she was excited to promote wellness through her new role as aquatic/recreation coordinator at The Mas. She previously worked at Fair Oaks Lodge and graduated from Winona State University with a degree in recreation.

“I’m an advocate for having a healthy lifestyle and like to be active myself,” she said.

Anderson will be planning programs at The Mas from swimming lessons to kickball or other leagues.

“It’s kind of a catch-all job,” Anderson said. “We’re a small team here and we all work hard to make sure the facility is running well.”

She had praise for the Maslowski center, which has been open since December 2014.

“It’s an awesome facility and I’m lucky that I’m able to come to a state-of-the-art facility for work every day. It’s really great,” she said.

Membership at The Mas is all ages and Anderson’s goal is to have a wide variety of programming for everyone.

“I think I’m most excited to get the word out about what a great facility we have here and get more people in the door,” she said.

Anderson is open to suggestions for programming at the facility. Pickleball was added this fall after some members expressed interest in the game.

“Bring on the ideas - people can always give us a call. We want to know what people are interested in,” she said.

• Pumps • Smart Home Thermostats • Water Heaters • Water Softeners

ESSER Plumbing & Heating

877.882.4822 │ EsserPlumbingandHeating.com

001380418r1

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.

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

001380524r1

Photo by Anna Erickson

Offerings continue to expand at The Mas. Pickleball is one of the recent additions to the activities at the wellness center.

• Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems • Air Quality Solutions • Lennox Authorized Dealer • Plenum Heaters

PROGRESS 2016

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NEW BUSINESS

113 2nd Ave.NW, Bertha, MN

1

YEAR IN BUSINESS

218-924-9200

Home Cooking with a Twist!

AWESOME BREAKFAST! LUNCH & NIGHTLY SPECIALS!

MON.-THURS. 7AM-9PM • FRI.-SAT. 7AM-1AM 63131 Hwy. 10 • Wadena, MN • 218-632-5890

1

6 7

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Quality Auto Body & Glass 116 Ash Avenue NW • Wadena, MN 56482

218-632-5770 • Auto Body Repair and Painting • Windshield Repair • Collision Services • Auto Parts and Supplies

NORTHSIDE FLORAL, LLC Same great service you have been accustomed to for over 70 years Hwy. 71 N, Wadena, MN • 631-1774 Your headquarters Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:30 - 5:30, Sat. 8:30-12:00 for gardening products!

www.wadenanorthsidefloral.com

7 Steve’s 8

YEARS IN BUSINESS

ALIGNMENT AND AUTO REPAIR

632-5550

323 Jefferson St. S. Wadena, MN

David Folkestad II

YEARS IN BUSINESS

8

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Shaw Sales opens at former Truax Auto location Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

YEAR IN BUSINESS

YEARS IN BUSINESS

February 25, 2016

222 Ash Avenue NE, Wadena, MN 56482 T: 218-632-8012 Cell: 218-371-6383

• New Steel • Custom Machining • Custom Welding • Welding Gases & Supplies • PTO & Hydraulic Repair

Matt and Mandi Shaw are new owners of an auto dealership in Deer Creek.

They opened Shaw Sales in early February and are excited to continue the tradition started by Truax Auto Sales, which formerly operated out of the location on Highway 29.

Vincent Truax, owner of Truax Auto Sales, retired in 2015 and about the same time Matt Shaw was looking to do something on his own.

“It ended up being great timing for both of us,” Matt Shaw said. “I worked for Vince for many years and so I knew the business, the location.”

Matt and Mandi Shaw are both Henning graduates and like the area.

“We’re going to try and keep it very similar to the way Vince ran things,” Matt Shaw said.

He will keep an inventory of cars, trucks and SUVs on the lot for people to look at but is also able to search for specific types of vehicles if someone is looking for something in particular, he said.

“That’s kind of our specialty.

‘Let me find it for you,’” Matt Shaw said.

Shaw Sales will primarily carry used late model cars, trucks and SUVs. Matt Shaw has experience working on vehicles and makes sure all vehicles are in good working order before they are sold, he said.

Along with Matt and Mandi Shaw, Cody Truax will work at the dealership.

The business will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondayFriday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays.

Photo by Anna Erickson

Matt and Mandi Shaw have opened Shaw Sales along Highway 29 in Deer Creek. It’s the former location of Truax Auto.

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Community Progress

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February 25, 2016

218-631-3333

www.dandjservices.net

• Handicap Accessible (ada) Units • Portable Restroom Rental • Portable Hand Washing Stations • Septic Tank Pumping

10

YEARS IN BUSINESS

REGISTERED, BONDED & LICENSED # 3016

11

Midwest Vision centers Bringing Life Into Focus

YEARS IN BUSINESS

318 South • Jefferson St. Wadena, MN

218-631-3300

www.midwestvisioncenters.com

12

Submitted photo

Azure Vision Care opened at the end of August with a ribbon cutting and open house. The new building is located on Highway 71 north in Wadena.

Azure Vision Care opens at new location Neitzke family reflects on history of vision care

Neitzke said, they can have centralized billing and coding, along with resources and accounting.

In the last 10-15 years especially, the internet has opened up a lot of things in the eye care field. The network has electronic medical records now, which means everything is stored off site, he added.

The new building in Wadena is state of the art.

“We’re really proud of it,” Tim Neitzke said.

Azure Vision Care has a newly designed website and will be incorporating social media into the practice as well.

Their current optometrists are Dr. William J. Hartman, Dr. Jeff Mackner, Dr. Timothy C. Neitzke and Dr. Kathryn Van Den Einde.

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BRYAN WEGSCHEID Plumbing & Heating • Installation & Repair Sewer System Installation • Bobcat & Backhoe

218-631-4227

Licensed, Insured & Bonded

Cell: 218-639-3618

YEARS IN BUSINESS

12

Inga’s Inga’s Place Place

Adult Living ADULT FOSTERFoster CARE ACare SSISTEDAssisted LIVING Our focus is to provideisassisted and extensive care and extensive care Our focus to provide assisted to elderlyto individuals our country home. elderlyinindividuals in our country home.

Licensed through Otter Tail County Social Services Licensed through Otter Tail County Social Services Owners: Richard & Karla Guldseth& Karla Guldseth Owners: Richard 38281 Co. Hwy. 75, Wadena, MN 56482 38281 Co. Hwy. 75, Wadena, MN 56482

218-631-7211 218-631-7211

YEARS IN BUSINESS

14

Deer Creek Express Stop 320 E. Main Avenue, Deer Creek, MN 56527

218-462-9777

Open 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Full C Store, Liquor Store and Live Bait.

Diesel fuel available.

YEARS IN BUSINESS

14

Karla Berger Diamond Independent Distributor #496342

Wadena 218-640-6006 www.karla.vibrantscents.com

oilsandmore@gmail.com

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Q

Comfort Care Cottage

Q

Azure Vision Care, which recently opened at a new location on north Highway 71 in Wadena, is the culmination of years of high quality eye care in the region.

Dr. Al Neitzke started an eye clinic in Wadena in 1947 after finishing school. After moving locations a few times, the office was eventually located in the Ebner building in downtown Wadena. His son, Dr. Tim Neitzke, returned to Wadena in 1989 and they practiced together for several years before he retired.

The practice has grown over the years with the addition of optometrists and locations. The clinic is a part of an eye care network serving Barnesville, Long Prairie, Pelican Rapids, Perham and Wadena. The network originated more than 25 years ago when Dr. Tim Neitzke took over the family business, Neitzke Eye Clinic.

The clinic is part of the Minnesota Eye Care Network now doing business as Azure Vision Care. The Wadena clinic moved from 315 Jefferson Street South to a completely new building at 652 Jefferson Street North, across from the Wadena Elks Lodge.

The core of what they do has remained the same and that is to offer a full scope of medical eye care, Tim Neitzke said.

They work with people who have glaucoma, cataract surgery and other medical care.

“While we’re excited about the name change, we still have the same vision: to give our communities the level of eye care they deserve,” he said. “We’re still the same local optometrists here to help our region.”

As a network of eye care clinics, Tim

Joe Hinkle, broker 218-632-5036 www.hinklerealty.com • 119 Jefferson St. S., Wadena

YEARS IN BUSINESS

1232 Jefferson st. s, Wadena, Mn

Submitted photo

Azure Vision Center was built with a modern design and has more room to display eyewear.

218-631-4873

assisted Living in a hoMe setting

15

YEARS IN BUSINESS

PROGRESS 2016

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15

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Ryan L. Anderson, DDS 206 1st St. SE (218) 631-4431 Wadena, MN 56482 www.woodlanddental.org

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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George Wheeler Jr., Owner

Office 218-631-3633 Cell 218-639-9886 Fax 218-631-3462 19452 Co Rd 66 Wadena, MN 56482

platinumelectric@twecwb.com

Wadena County Transfer Station 10542 170th Street, Wadena 218-631-2474

218-462-2611 • Flatbed • Haul to Hire • 48 States

Owners, Darren & Pennie Astle

29744 530th Ave. Deer Creek, MN 56527

18

YEARS IN BUSINESS

ICC# MC389795 DOT# 0897308 FED ID# 41-1978341

Assisted Living Facility An Alternative to Senior Care

24 hour staff supervision • RN on staff

YEARS IN BUSINESS

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Wadena County recycling facility

2.5 miles north of Wadena on 11th Street N., 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

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February 25, 2016

Jody & Beno Lohse, Owners 609 Front Street • Henning, MN 56551 (218) 583-4428 • (218) 583-2504 Fax e-mail: ourhome@arvig.net

LITTLE BIT OF COUNTRY “Good Care at a Good Price” 24 Hour Care For Seniors

Private Rooms, Meals & Laundry Included

For more information call 631-7105.

Bonnie Nelson, Sales Agent Debbie Porkkonen, Broker

21 MAIN AVENUE NORTH • NEW YORK MILLS, MN

218.385.3562

Fax: 218.385.3237

office@centennial-realty.com

www.centennial-realty.com

Photo by Anna Erickson

Amber and Elijah Brunell have opened Sweet Pickins, a home decor boutique, on Jefferson Street North in Wadena.

Sweet Pickins opens on north Jefferson Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Amber Brunell has turned her hobby into a business venture.

Sweet Pickins, featuring home decor and custom pieces, opened this at 204 Jefferson Street North in Wadena.

Brunell has always enjoyed creating home decor and Pinterest-type pieces. Last fall, after her kids went to school she realized she had more time to devote to this interest.

She is originally from Sebeka and had lived in Crookston for a few years before returning with her husband, Elijah.

The couple decided to expand on Amber’s interest in home decor and open up the business.

“We’re going to be selling clothing, homemade jewelry, home furnishings, coat racks, lotions, soaps and more,” she said. “It’s basically going to be a boutique.”

Amber and Elijah anticipate doing a lot of custom work as well.

“I always had people coming to me with something they liked on Pinterest,” she said.

“They didn’t want to do it themselves and would ask me.”

Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are fun for Amber because they’re always different and challenging. Home decor is constantly changing and they will change their invento-

ry as trends change.

“It’s been a lot of work getting it set up but it’s looking like a store finally,” Amber said.

Sweet Pickins is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Photo by Anna Erickson

Sweet Pickins has a variety of DIY items, clothing, jewelry and more.

February 25, 2016

Community Progress

Friendly Rider moves to new location Anna Erickson

FOUR BOYS MOTORSPORTS “We’ve got the key for the car you need” JERRY BETTIN JR, owner/operator 218-639-0520 WADENA, MN 218-631-3966 NIMROD, MN 218-472-CARS Email: jb4badboys@yahoo.com

Buckwheat Growers Association of Minnesota

aerickson@wadenapj.com

Friendly Rider Transit is operating in a new building next the the Wadena County Highway Department on Harry Rich Drive.

City and county leaders, along with members of the community who use the service, attended an open house and ribbon cutting at the new facility in June. Ice cream was served by members of 4-H and free rides were offered between the Wadena County Fairgrounds and the transit building.

Ryan Damlo is Transit Director for Wadena and Becker Counties and has been in the new role since March. He introduced several people who have helped Friendly Rider become what it is today through a variety of roles.

Larry Spenst, a member of the transit advisory committee, said Friendly Rider is “the best deal in Wadena.”

Wadena County has five buses with four located in the city of Wadena. One bus is located in Staples and also serves northern Todd County, including Bertha and Hewitt.

Friendly Rider also offers rides from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and 8 a.m. to noon Sundays. The system is a dial-a-ride system.

“Thank you to all of our drivers and dispatchers and those who ride the bus,” Damlo said.

Wadena Chamber of Commerce director Shirley Uselman said that many people benefit from having a bus service in Wadena.

She listed off businesses, commuters, families and others.

“Wadena is very lucky to have a means of transportation for everyone,” she said.

Paul Sailer, retired social services director for Wadena County, was instrumental in getting the transit system in place in the county.

The need was talked about since the 1970s but didn’t take off until 2001 when a task force was commissioned. It ended up coming together a couple years later and has grown leaps and bounds.

Minnesota Department of Transportation representative Sue Siemers attended the open house and said she remembered Friendly Rider exceeded all ridership and other goals “right out of the shoot.”

She is working with Damlo on merging the transit service in Becker and Wadena counties by Jan. 1.

“It will be seamless,” she said.

Damlo said he wanted to talk about the future.

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Organic & Non-GMO Feed, Seed and more 206 Aldrich Ave SE Wadena MN 56482

218-631-9212

Fax: 218-631-1711 e-mail: info@buckwheatgrowers.com www.buckwheatgrowers.com

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

Wadena and Becker County transit director Ryan Damlo talks about the future of the Friendly Rider program at an open house last week.

He is looking at how to market and expand bus service in both Wadena and Becker Counties. Many ideas are being looked at for expansion in Wadena. Many people would like to see service from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., for example, he said.

The combined transit operation will take a while to merge, Damlo said. He is working with the state to make sure it’s done smoothly. His new position as Transit Director is paid jointly by Becker and Wadena Counties.

“I’m getting feedback from city leaders and will be doing interviews with riders to get an idea of what people are looking for,” Damlo said.

Damlo stresses that the bus service is for everyone.

“It can be used by families who are looking for a way to have their child involved in activities but need a ride,” he said.

Damlo added a summer rec schedule that has been popular for parents to have their kids use.

“We did 618 rides just in the last three weeks,” he said.

This shows that the bus service is for everyone, not just the elderly, Damlo said.

In Wadena, there is a dedicated route that

18

YEARS IN BUSINESS

20

YEARS IN BUSINESS

20

Hometown service.

Big-name protection.

Audrey J. Stearns Midstate Insurance Services Inc.

Photo by Anna Erickson

18

YEARS IN BUSINESS

YEARS IN BUSINESS

218-631-1065

2 LOCATIONS

2 Miles South of Wadena on Hwy. 71 218-631-2768 800 Ash Ave. NE (on Hwy. 10) Wadena 218-632-3440

27366 490th Street Staples, MN 56479

218-894-1084 www.ppandpi.com

The Rising Phoenix Truckload Marketplace 15 Aldrich Ave. SW., Wadena 631-5731

New to You Thrift Store 204 Bryant SE., Wadena 631-2113

20

YEARS IN BUSINESS

20

YEARS IN BUSINESS

20

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Hwy. 10 • Wadena 631-3330

YEARS IN BUSINESS

PROGRESS 2016

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22

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Open 7 Days A Week! • “Lowest Everyday Prices!”

We Deliver Groceries on Tuesdays!

120 Ironwood Ave NW, Wadena • (218) 631-3410

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scheduling rides a simpler process.

“We’ve also had requests for a bike rack,” he said. “We were able to get a grant so we will be adding those.”

To offer feedback or for more information about Friendly Rider in Wadena call 6315730.

Hwy. 71 N. Wadena, MN 218-631-1580

Nationwide Reservations 1-800-634-3444 www.americinn.com

YEARS IN BUSINESS

YEARS IN BUSINESS

goes between some of the apartments, nursing home and shopping destinations. Damlo would like to see if other routes might be feasible in the city.

He is gathering feedback and is asking riders to complete a survey. Technology will be upgraded in the future as well to make

February 25, 2016

HYDRAULIC DOCTOR Specialists in Hydraulic Repair!

Bertha, MN • 924-4100

• Seed • Crop Protection • Fertilizer • Lime 220 Bottemiller Drive • Wadena, MN 218-631-7261

Toll Free 1-866-631-4277 Photo by Anna Erickson

Service Professionals Total Home Comfort Equipment Sales & Service Rely on Ruud

•Heating •Air Conditioning •Sheet Metal •Plumbing WADENA, MN • 218-631-2638

Romper Room Daycare Tina Reece

Licensed Daycare 1017 N. Jefferson St. Wadena

631-2360

City and county leaders, along with members of the Friendly Rider advisory board were on hand for a ribbon cutting at the new transit building last week. From left are Ryan Damlo, Larry Spenst, Ryan Odden, Paul Sailer, Sue Siemers, Sheldon Monson, Bill Stearns, Shirley Uselman, Nancy Benson and George Deiss.

County moves ahead with courtroom remodel Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

JANSON FLYING SERVICE, INC. Flight and ground training available at the Wadena Municipal Airport.

218-631-9049 Residential Construction & Remodeling • Custom Cabinets & Furniture

M&W Construction & Cabinets

Lic. #BC609519 32148 595th Avenue Wadena, MN 56482 RON MALONE Phone: 218-631-2168 Cell: 218-639-2571 BOB WENIGER Phone: 218-583-2586 Cell: 218-640-6639

www.mandwconstructionandcabinets.com

Wadena County commissioners approved proceeding with a contract for a courtroom remodeling project in 2015.

The project is projected to cost approximately $450,000. Bruce Schwartzman, architect for BHV Architects in Minneapolis, said that the estimates seem to be in line.

The county is working with the National Joint Powers Alliance to receive bids for the project. Hytech is the contractor and could hire local or regional subcontractors to do some of the work.

There is a possibility that Sentenced to

Serve could work on some of the demolition involved with the project.

Judge Sally Robertson wondered what the timeline will look like for the remodel project.

It was anticipated that work could start in April. A pre-construction meeting will be held with those who will be directly involved or affected by the project.

It will be a phased project and scheduling will be an important issue to work out with the contractor and the courts.

Some of the louder work will be done outside regular business hours to minimize disruption, Schwartzman anticipated.

February 25, 2016

Commissioners looked at how to fund the courtroom remodel with existing county money. Some of the funding sources will likely include money from the Human Services reserves, building services and MCIT insurance claim funds.

“Taxpayers should be happy,” Commissioner Jim Hofer said of funding the project without asking for additional funds.

The county board voted to have County Coordinator Curt Kreklau proceed with a contract. Commissioners will further discuss the budget and funding sources at a future meeting.

After discussion about the courtroom remodeling project, several department heads told commissioners about additional space needs in their departments.

Todd-Wadena County Community Corrections director Kathy Langer outlined space needs for her department’s Wadena offices. The department is now located in the basement of the courthouse, next to the County Attorney’s offices. Her department has very little space and she said it’s a safety issue.

“We’ve seen a marked increase in meth use and drug testing” as a result, she said.

Currently, drug testing is done in public restrooms. Langer would like to see a bathroom for drug testing, along with a private bathroom for employees.

Additional space is also needed for staff offices, sterile interview rooms, support staff, a file room and a waiting area.

Judge Robertson said she supports the needs of Community Corrections.

“They need the distance for their own safety and the public,” she said. “It’s extremely important.”

Todd County Commissioners recently approved increasing space for their Community Corrections offices.

County Attorney Kyra Ladd also explained her need for additional space.

Commissioners gave approval for Ladd to hire a second assistant county attorney and a paralegal/administrative assistant to take on some of the large volume of legal work required of the County Attorney’s Office. However, she doesn’t have room to house the additional employees with the current courthouse layout. The County Attorney’s Office is also located in the basement of the courthouse.

Ladd reminded commissioners that she brought to their attention in early 2014 the need for additional space and asked for a plan. Now, she is ready

Community Progress

to hire two additional people starting in June but she doesn’t have a place to put them.

Commissioners asked if it would be possible to house the additional attorney in the Social Services building.

“No,” she said simply.

It wouldn’t be feasible to have part of her team housed in a different office, she said. It also wouldn’t work to have the County Attorney’s Office housed off site, she added.

Out of all the departments at the courthouse, Ladd argued that her office had the greatest need to be located on site.

Judge Robertson drafted a rough plan showing that the entire north half of the courthouse could be utilized for only the courts, County Attorney’s Office and Community Corrections.

Planning, Zoning and Parks Director Deana Malone also spoke up and said that she gave up her office so the County Coordinator could have an office. She was told six months but it’s already been longer.

“I would like an office again,” she said.

Commissioner Bill Stearns said that moving some of the county departments to the Wensman building seemed like the only option.

A study was done in 2006 and it showed that the Wensman building was in good condition and had structural integrity, said County Engineer Ryan Odden.

Stearns said it would be cheaper to remodel the Wensman building that have an addition made to the courthouse.

Board chairman Rodney Bounds didn’t agree that the Wensman building was in good condition and said it was full of holes in the bricks.

Hofer said that no matter what was decided, something needed to be done in the short term such as moving Veteran’s Services so Ladd will have some room for the new employees.

Stearns suggested that the County Assessor’s office could be moved out of the courthouse short term.

Wadena Public Health director Cindy Pederson said that her department is pleased with their space. The building, located off site about a block from the courthouse, is in need with a few updates such as new carpeting and furniture. It also needs new windows, she said.

The county board took the space and building needs requests under advisement and will discuss them at a future meeting.

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10-Star Auto Clinic Keith VanOrsdel, Owner Hwy. 10 West • Wadena 631-4220

ALBERS REALTY

Highway 10 East, Wadena Office: 218-631-2585 Home: 218-462-2585

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

www.albersrealty.com

Minnesota Valley Irrigation 602 Ash Ave. NE, Wadena 631-9271

JEFFERSON HEARING AID CENTER

Call anytime for appointment

23

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Brian Hillesland, BC-HIS

National Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist

223 N. Jefferson, Wadena • 631-4966 or Toll Free 1-800-631-4946

B-H Transportation Bertha 924-4211

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renda’s NEW IMAGE

B

767 Jefferson St. North • Wadena, MN 218-631-1623

N B C

orthwest uilding

enter

Hwy. 71. N. Wadena (Next to Subway)

631-4677

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PROGRESS 2016

Page 10

February 25, 2016

Reuter Family Dentistry opens new clinic Reuter Family Dentistry opened a new state of the art dental facility at 80 Juniper Ave., near the entrance to Walmart in Wadena.

Crews broke ground on the new site in the fall of 2014 and Dr. Heidi Reuter began seeing patients at the new location in early 2015.

“Our top priorities in planning the clinic were comfort and technology,” Reuter said.

“Our new space is a comfortable, relaxing environment for our patients and provides them with the latest technology available.”

With around 3,600 square feet, the new clinic allows Reuter and her staff to accommodate more patients, including families and patients with special needs or sensitivities. The building features a spacious waiting room, private consultation areas and even a separate kids’ activity area.

Building new also allowed Reuter to upgrade to the latest in medical/dental equip-

ment such as digital X-rays, including a panoramic X-ray machine, onsite equipment sterilization and a custom athletic mouthguard machine. In keeping with their focus on innovation, the Reuters incorporated energy efficiency into the design of the building and received a rebate and recognition from Wadena Light and Water as part of the Bright Energy Solutions program.

Originally from the Wadena area, Reuter practiced dentistry in Rochester and Hastings for several years before she and husband Ryan decided to move their young family back north. The Reuters bought an existing practice in Wadena in 2010 and soon determined they needed a new location to provide for their growing number of patients.

“This is the culmination of several years of planning and hard work for us, our staff and the many people that helped make it a reality,” Ryan Reuter said.

Photo by Anna Erickson

Dental hygienists at Reuters Family Dentistry show part of the new building at 80 Juniper Ave. in Wadena.

County approves funding Westrum outlines part of SE Wadena project strategic, action plans for WDC Brian Hansel bhansel@wadenapj.com

Wadena-Deer Creek School District has adopted a new strategic and action plan that was the result of three meetings over a three-month period of time by a committee of employees.

Priority No. 1, according to Westrum, was a highly-trained staff.

“I think we do a really good job of training teachers and our administrators but not necessarily some of the other employees,” said Superintendent Lee Westrum. “We want to make sure we train all staff because all of our staff have contact with students and the public and everybody.”

Priority No. 2 was a mentoring program. The district presently has a mentoring program in place for new faculty members. The program is run by music instructor Mike Ortmann. The committee members recommended that program be expanded to all employees.

Priority No. 3 was strong student-teacher relationships and accountability that involved Top Twenty and the Envoy Demonstration site.

Westrum to 21 ��

Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Wadena County Board Commissioners approved $1.9 million in funding for the city of Wadena southeast infrastructure project using no local levy dollars.

The project funding will come from the Wadena County municipal state aid construction account, which is managed

by County Engineer Ryan Odden, since the City of Wadena is not a state aid eligible city due to its population being under 5,000 people. The rest of the county contribution is from the transportation sales and use tax, which is the half percent sales tax that is on all taxable sales in Wadena County.

“The city of Wadena and Wadena County have been planning for this cooperative project for more than five years and are excited for establishing a new truck route, which will keep the commercial traffic out of the residential sections of that part of the city and create a safer transportation network in the city of Wadena,” Odden said.

The Wadena project will replace aging pipes. Sanitary sewer in this area is vitrified clay pipe from 1930-1960 and has had collapses and backups. The watermain was also constructed between

1930 and 1960 and is now undersized. It is seeing more breaks. Storm sewer and streets are also reaching the end of their useful lives.

Bids were presented at last week’s Wadena City Council meeting by city engineer Phil Martin, with Bolton & Menk, Inc. The low bid was from R.L. Larson Excavating, Inc., from St. Cloud at $10.66 million, about 7 percent over the estimated cost.

Martin said the contractor is currently working with the city of Eagle Bend to complete a street and utility reconstruction project and is a familiar construction contractor for these types of projects.

Although the project cost came in higher than estimated, based on the cost participation from the county and the city securing a $500,000 grant, the city cost will be lower than initial estimates.

Martin presented some potential project cost reductions including shrinking the sidewalk width or removing all sidewalks, using plastic storm pipe instead of concrete and removing gate valves from hydrant leads.

“I like sidewalks,” councilwoman Gillette Kempf said. “I think it’s important to the community to have them.”

Councilman Bruce Uselman also

mentioned that sidewalks were a safer option for people to walk along than streets.

“I agree with everything that’s being said,” councilman Don Niles said.

“Also, now we have a commitment from the county that more than makes up for the cost.”

The council was not in favor of the changes presented because assessments should still be less than initially talked about. Assessments should be 30 percent less than numbers presented at a public hearing in March.

Construction could start this summer, with the portion from Dayton Avenue south completed this year and north of Dayton completed in 2016.

Residents living in this area will pay for about 20 percent of the city share of the project through special assessments, while homeowners throughout the city will cover the rest through property taxes.

Storm sewer will be moved from the alleys to the streets as part of the project and connections will need to be rerouted on many properties. Residents are encouraged to talk with local plumbers ahead of time so any additional work can be done to coincide with the project. This would be an additional cost to the assessments.

February 25, 2016

Community Progress

Page 11

Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools

A school that gives students many opportunities to grow, learn and become well-rounded youths. A school that provides students a place where they can find common interests, where friendships are built.

What students are saying about WDC: Athea Perez was a sophomore when she transferred to Wadena-Deer Creek in 2014. Today, she is a senior who has literally transformed her life at Wadena-Deer Creek High School. She’s on the Honor Roll, involved in football and winter cheerleading, and participates in track. She was a Homecoming Queen candidate this past fall. The bubbly 18-year-old says Wadena-Deer Creek High School has “changed my life for the better.”

“Before I came here, I was a negative person. I had a hard time finding the positive in things. I would hate the thought of parent-teacher conferences, tests and homework. It would all pile up into a big stress ball. My grades were not that good either.

Here at WDC, the teachers want you to succeed.

They want to see that you do well in high school and beyond that. They really care. It’s like you’re a family here, like a community, where everyone knows everybody. I have people walking down the halls saying, ‘Hi, Athea!’ I never got that before. I smile at everybody now and smiling is my favorite! I’ve never been happier than I am here. My parents love it! They’re so happy that I switched schools. They are so proud of me. And hearing that my parents are proud of me, that really makes me happy!”

Athea Perez Plans after graduation: Attend the University of Minnesota to study psychology.

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PROGRESS 2016

Page 12

February 25, 2016

The Funu¯kum family business Elizabeth Huwe For the Pioneer Journal

About four years ago, siblings Joni Birch and Bill Greenwaldt each had a son who would be graduating from high school that spring. To help, their mother, known as “Grandma G,” decided to make an experimental snack for their parties.

“She is one of those people who uses what she happens to have, so she mixed together some stuff, melted something on top, put it together and served it,” Birch said.

Birch and Greenwaldt, along with sisters Marilyn Snyder and Caryl Stave (who are all Deer Creek High School graduates) decided to call the snack “Funukum,” after a nickname their mother was given when she was a little girl.

It is pronounced “fuh-NU-come.”

Does it mean anything? Well, they aren’t sure.

“We thought it was Finnish at first… but we’re still trying to figure it out,” Birch said.

“At least it doesn’t come up with anything bad (on Google).”

Birch and Snyder described Funukum as a hybrid of trail-mix and puppy chow (also called muddy buddies), made with cereal, dried cranberries and peanuts covered

with a sweet coating, during an interview last week.

“We had a ton of people telling us, ‘This is awesome!’ ‘This is amazing!’ ‘You guys should sell this!’” Birch said, remembering the graduation parties. “And we were like, ‘Yeah, yeah…’”

About a year later, Greenwaldt revisited the idea of selling the treat, calling it ‘something to do.’

Not too long after that thought, Funukum made its official debut at the Wadena Christmas Festival.

“It went really, really good there,” Birch said. “We were amazed at the response.

That’s what made us think we should really give this a try, because people would take a little (sample) cup and start eating it. They’d get about 5 feet away before they’d turn back around – and that was so much fun for us!”

“A lot of people are afraid to say it,” said Birch of the snack’s name, laughing. “It’s been said a lot of different ways. But it’s such an unusual name, and it scares people to say it, so we figure people won’t forget.”

After the festival, Birch said, they reached out to another local person in the snack food business for some advice on how to start selling on a larger scale. With this anonymous mentor’s help, they got

in touch with a manufacturer to make the bags for their snack.

“Honestly, none of us had a clue about anything,” Birch said, adding that Google searches were the main form of research they used.

“Not a thing,” Snyder agreed, noting that none of them had experience in the food business. “We just learned.”

Funukum is mixed and packaged in the

cafeteria of the former Deer Creek school, which is now home to the White Pine and Leaf River Academies.

“This last bunch we made, we did 18,000some bags,” Birch said. “It took us probably a week.”

They get 28 family members from four generations involved in the production, and often put in marathon days to finish the work, which is mostly done by hand.

Submitted photo

Grandma G’s is made up of Grandma and Grandpa G (center) and siblings Joni Birch, Marilyn Snyder, Caryl Stave and Bill Greenwaldt.

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Community Progress

February 25, 2016

Submitted photo

Funukum snacks are made in Deer Creek.

Snyder said they work through most of the day and into the night, including the weekend, and that it is a great help when everyone pitches in as needed.

“We just keep going and don’t really take breaks,” said Birch. “We mix it all up, and when we get done, we bag it all… and then, we’re ahead. At least we have some now, so we can have a break.”

Grandma and Grandpa G (who are 81

and 77, respectively) are in charge of bringing bags of Funukum to area retailers, asking them to carry their product.

“They do it because we all work fulltime,” Snyder said.

“And they wanted something to do,” added Birch. “Dad would say, ‘What, do you just want me to sit here?’”

“They are really just enjoying the heck out of it,” said Birch of their parents’ side of the job. “They love going around and talking to people. It’s been really good for them that way.”

With Grandma and Grandpa G spreading the word about Funukum (with samples in tow, of course), their product has found space in about 60 local stores.

The family also works with two distributors, Mason Brothers Wholesale Grocers of Wadena and Bischof Distributing of Bismarck, N.D., to make Funukum available to more than 300 stores in Minnesota and North Dakota.

Snyder said the family would like to expand Funukum’s offerings.

“We have other ideas,” Birch added. “So, if this keeps working out for us… then we’ll probably start the next one.”

Are there any hints as to what “the next one” might be?

“We want to keep it a surprise,” they said.

To learn more about Grandma G’s, visit www.grandma-gs.com or like them on Facebook.

Page 13

Verndale clinic open, accepting patients Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Tri-County Health Care’s newest clinic opened in Verndale in April.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was Friday, April 3 to celebrate the opening of TCHC’s sixth primary care clinic in the Tri-County area. The clinic began accepting patients Monday, April 6. It will be staffed by physicians and advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners or physician assistants).

Several key partners were on hand to witness the event, including representatives from the Verndale City Council, the Verndale Economic Development Authority, Todd-Wadena Electrical Cooperative, Verndale Star Bank and Tri-County Health Care. Joel Beiswenger, Tri-County President and CEO, David Quincer, Tri-County Board Chairperson, Raye Ludovisse, Verndale Mayor and Judy White, Tri-County Vice-President of Clinic Operations, all shared a few words before the cutting of the ceremonial ribbon.

“It’s an exciting day for Tri-County,”

Beiswenger said. “We’re thrilled that we’ll be able to provide great, high quality care to all of our friends, neighbors and family in the Verndale community.”

Quincer echoed those words.

“We are very pleased to be bringing high quality, convenient care to our Verndale

Photo by Anna Erickson

Lorinda Zigan, PA-C, is the primary health care provider at the Verndale Clinic. She was on hand to answer questions from guests at Friday’s ribbon cutting.

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friends and neighbors, allowing you to remain closer to home and receive your care from individuals you know and trust,” he said. “The building behind us represents what unity among leaders and community members can do and what wonderful things can be created when leaders and community members unite to the bettering of the health of our friends, family and neighbors.”

Ludovissie said the clinic opening is a new chapter in Verndale’s history and is the first new business opening in Verndale in 2015.

“We’re lucky to have Tri-County Health Care come into our community,” he said.

“What Tri-County will bring to Verndale is a great convenience and a whole lot of status.

We are now able to doctor our own town.”

Previously, people rushed to Wadena or Bertha when they weren’t feeling well, he said, and now they won’t have to drive to another town.

“A convenience like this is truly immeasurable especially when you’re sick or hurt,” Ludovissie said. “We’re also able to brag a little bit. We’ve got a clinic in our town.”

White, a Verndale native, said the last time she gave a speech in Verndale was at her high school graduation.

“Today it is my distinct privilege to be involved in this project, the project that brings Verndale and Tri-County Health Care together,” she said. “Over the years, both Verndale and Tri-County have demonstrated to me and all of us loyalty, caring,

PROGRESS 2016 support and hardworking characteristics.

I believe these things will ensure that this partnership will bring success and great value to the people in this community and to those around us.”

She recalled her favorite Tri-County slogan from years ago: “Our people make the difference.”

“In my life, in my family, my school and my town have provided me with a rich heritage, a foundational education and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. May God bless our work here in this clinic,” White said.

The next event on the docket for the Verndale Clinic is the grand opening. The public is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Verndale Clinic from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 18. Refreshments, goodies and tours will be available to the guests at the open house event.

Lorinda Zigan, PA-C, is the primary health care provider at the Verndale Clinic.

She is joined by Laura DuChene, MD; Ben Hess, MD and Renea Miller, PA-C who will be staffing the Verndale Clinic on a rotating basis. In addition to primary medical care, the clinic also provides x-ray and laboratory services.

The new 2,200 square-foot clinic is located at 102 Farwell St., Verndale, which previously housed Lake Country Insurance. Patients wishing to make an appointment to see one of the Verndale Clinic providers can do so by calling (218) 445-5990.

February 25, 2016

Photo by Anna Erickson

Several key partners were on hand for the Verndale Clinic opening ribbon-cutting event on Friday, April 3. Pictured are front, from left, Joel Beiswenger, Tri-County President and CEO; Lisa Graba-Meech, Todd-Wadena Electric Cooperative Finance Manager; Miles Kuschel, ToddWadena Electric Cooperative Board Member; Steve Pickar, Verndale Star Bank Vice-President; Lorinda Zigan, PA-C; Ben Hess, MD; Raye Ludovisse, Verndale Mayor; Dave Quincer, Tri-County Board Chairperson; Judy White, Tri-County Clinic Administrator; Jim Ruyan, Verndale City Council; Gary Van Dam, Verndale City Council; Jill Doll, RN, Rural Health Clinics Manager; and Kim Aagard, Tri-County Chief Financial Officer. Back, from left, are Paul Brownlow, Verndale Public Schools Superintendent; Cami Carr, Economic Development Authority; Terry Davis, Tri-County Board Member; Jolene Johannes Tri-County Board Member and Jose Alba Tri-County Clinic Operations Director.

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February 25, 2016

Community Progress

Page 15

Growth in recycling forces Transfer Station expansion Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Work started last week on a Wadena County Transfer Station expansion.

“Our recycling numbers keep increasing and we need a more efficient way to handle the materials,” said Tammy Ehrmantraut, Solid Waste Supervisor.

In 2007, 777,460 pounds of recycling material was collected in Wadena County.

Recyclable items taken in Wadena County include:

• Aluminum cans - rinsed • Food cans - rinsed • Tin cans • Iron cans • Aerosol cans (completely empty and nozzle removed) • Plastic bottles • Laundry bottles (remove caps and 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)

Non-recyclable items include:

• TV tubes/monitors/electronics/appliances/vacuums • Plastic housings from TVs and vacuums • All unnumbered plastics such as lawn chairs and toys

In 2014, 1,329,800 pounds of recycling material was collected. Wadena County is on track to collect even more recycling material in 2015, Ehrmantraut said.

Currently, recycled materials are collected in blue bins set up throughout the county. The number of bins has increased over the years, making it easier for people to recycle. Ehrmantraut said this could be one reason the recycling numbers have increased so drastically.

• Household garbage including food waste • Fluorescent bulbs/batteries • Household hazardous waste such as paint, cleaners, chemicals • Building materials (dirt, cement, rocks, wood, insulation, shingles, siding, vinyl siding) • Flooring (carpet, tile, wood, linoleum) • Cigarette butts, hair, sponges • Glass cookware, bakeware, dishes, ceramic and porcelain • Waxed paper and waxed cardboard • Cat litter, animal or human waste • Diapers, sanitary napkins and feminine products • Shoes and clothing (any cloth materials) • Paper plates, napkins, paper towels or toilet paper • Mirrors/windows or auto glass • Furnace or oil filters • Styrofoam or packing peanuts • Bailing twine or hay plastic • Christmas lights/trees or wreaths • Tires • No burned items For information on proper disposal of the items, please call the Wadena County Department of Solid Waste at (218) 631-2474.

The way the transfer station is set up now is inefficient and the materials are handled too many times before they leave the facility.

Wadena County commissioners approved an expansion to the northeast side of the building.

“We’ll have a lot more storage after construction,” Ehrmantraut said.

She anticipates efficiencies in time and dollars after the expansion is completed.

The county used to have a paint exchange but due to space constraints it hasn’t been available since 2009. Ehrmantraut hopes to offer a paint exchange once again for the public.

The list of recyclable items continues to grow. Drop boxes are located at various locations around the county. The transfer station is also open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays.

Blue recycling containers are placed throughout Wadena County.

Photo by Anna Erickson

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Transfer Station employee Mike Pete dumps a load of recycling into the facility.

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Jennie-O Turkey Store is celebrating over 66 years of business in Minnesota.

PROGRESS 2016

Page 16

26

YEARS IN BUSINESS

26

YEARS IN BUSINESS

26

YEARS IN BUSINESS

28

YEARS IN BUSINESS

31

YEARS IN BUSINESS

32

YEARS IN BUSINESS

32

YEARS IN BUSINESS

35

YEARS IN BUSINESS

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Verndale Custom Builders is up and running, opening up a building that had been vacant since 2011.

The previous company, Verndale Custom Homes, was a victim of the relentless recession that began in 2008 with the housing market collapse. But the legacy of the company, once one of Verndale’s largest employers, wasn’t forgotten.

The new owners know a thing or two about home building and already had deep roots in Verndale. The Weiher family has two other construction companies - a general contractor for construction and remodels and a log home builder. Their residential construction contractor business built more than 600 homes.

Bill Hess, Verndale Custom Builders general manager, has worked for the the Weihers in some fashion or another for 17 years. He said when they looked at Verndale Custom Homes, they saw a product serving a market niche they weren’t involved in through their other companies.

“This market is really a different market for them,” Hess said.

They’d been looking at the potential for about three years. This spring, the pieces came together for the purchase. Getting the office and construction plant back into shape didn’t take a lot of work, Hess said.

Getting the facility back up and run-

ning was about more than market share for the family, Hess said. He grew up in Verndale and makes his home in the community. He said beyond the business opportunity, they wanted to have the company back in the community providing job opportunities close to home.

“Everybody is excited about that,” Hess said. “It’s so good to be part of the community.

That was just as important as making money.”

Floor plans are available for two- and three-bedroom homes so customers can pick a style or come in with their own idea.

“We do customize everything to what they want in the home,” Hess said.

They’ll help the customer plan and design the home and will then build it, but the job doesn’t end in constructing the home. Verndale Custom Builders will put in septic systems, put in basements and build garages. They will clear a site for the placement of the home.

“We’re going to offer a turn-key product,” Hess said.

Hess said before he became involved in the system-built homes, he didn’t realize how well-constructed and how highly energy efficient the homes were.

Hess said when they first started he thought the target market would be firsttime homebuyers. But they found a strong response in those who were retiring and downsizing. When they were analyzing the market for their business plan, they found another somewhat unexpected trend of young people who wanted a smaller home.

February 25, 2016 Looking out two years into the future, Hess would like to see the number of employees grow from seven to 15. He’d like to be building 30 homes a year.

They can construct split-level homes, those with a story and a half, or two-story houses. Costs are about $100 to $120 per square foot. They sit down with customers and look at floor plan options or design something for them.

“One of the big advantages of our system is we can have a home built and delivered in 45 days,” Hess said. “That’s the real beauty of this system.”

Community Progress Hess said making it feasible to re-opening the business included support from the community.

“We’ve received a lot of help from the city of Verndale, the school district, and Wadena County on some tax abatements to get this started up and to help make this possible,” Hess said. “It’s been a very positive response.

That’s been encouraging to see.”

They hired four former employees of Verndale Custom Homes. Each one had about 20 years of experience. They’ve relied Verndale Custom to 21 ��

Paws & Prairie Animal Clinic opens on Highway 10 Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Dr. Christina Krell has moved her veterinary practice to a new location at the corner of U.S. Highway 10 and First Street Southeast in Wadena.

“We have more space and room for growth,” Krell said of the new location.

With the new location comes a new name as well. Krell Veterinary Services is now Paws & Prairie Animal Clinic.

People can come in with some of their larger animals now, although she will still do farm calls.

Krell’s primary clientele continues to be dogs and cats although she has started to see other small animals such as turtles, birds and ferrets.

A vaccine clinic was recently held at the clinic and another clinic is being planned from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, May 17. Spring is a good time to make sure pets are up-to-date

Page 17

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Dr. Christina Krell has opened Paws & Prairie Animal Clinic in a new location at Highway 10 and First Street Southeast in Wadena.

on their shots, Krell said.

“Most vaccines are either once a year or once every three years,” she said.

Several vaccines are important for dogs and cats and she also recommends flea and tick prevention.

“Since we’re in an area with a lot of ticks I highly recommend the Lyme’s vaccine for dogs,” Krell said.

Prevention is better than treating the disease later, she said.

The veterinary field is continually changing and Krell keeps up on the latest trends.

“The standard of care for animals is always increasing,” she said. “I’m always learning something new in this growing field.”

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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

218-631-1930

Bluffton

35

YEARS IN BUSINESS

35

YEARS IN BUSINESS

36

YEARS IN BUSINESS

36

YEARS IN BUSINESS

37

YEARS IN BUSINESS

TNT REPAIR, INC. Jim & Shari Haberer

206 Aldrich Ave SE Wadena MN 56482

218-631-9212

300 Industrial Drive • Henning, MN • 218-583-4545

Fax: 218-631-1711 e-mail: info@buckwheatgrowers.com www.buckwheatgrowers.com

Furnace Duct Cleaning – Housekeeping

35

YEARS IN BUSINESS

20 years of experience in complete heavy truck repair on grain trucks, over the road semi trucks and trailers and construction equipment. We have several mechanics assuring you of fast efficient service! In Store Tire Sales.

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PROGRESS 2016

Page 18

Pixel Perfect Photography and Design opens in Verndale

38

YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

February 25, 2016

Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

Paul Drake Tree Service Professional Tree Service Custom Lot Clearing & Brushing Storm Damage Clean Up Stump Grinding & Removal Thinning & Trimming Trees Tree Removal

304 9th St NE Staples, MN 56479 (218) 894-2871 Insured

BOLL REALTY Lake Homes - Lots - Acreage - Farms - Commercial FREE NOTARY SERVICE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

“LAKESHORE SPECIALISTS”

Complete Real Estate Service

218-367-2716

E-mail: boll@arvig.net Website: www.bollrealty.com Fax: 218-367-6020 • 217 MN Hwy 78 N., Ottertail, MN 56571

OPEN

24

HOURS

Cassandra Hodgden has opened a photography studio in Verndale.

Hodgden purchased a building in downtown Verndale and has been renovating it to create a space for shooting sessions. The studio, Pixel Perfect Photography and Design, is located at 115 South Farwell Street.

A few finishing touches need to be completed but Hodgden has started booking studio sessions and is offering some specials later this summer.

Hodgden grew up and graduated from Menahga High School. Eighteen years later, she returned to the area. She is looking forward to meeting new clients and bumping into old friends in the area.

Photography is her passion and while she

Orton’s Wadena BP Highways 10 & 71 • Wadena • 218-631-1434 • Soup, Hot Dogs, Brats • Coffee, Pop, Cappuccino • Movie Rental • DVD’s • ATM Machine • Car Wash

Arleen A. Paulson, Broker FOR ALL OF YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS

Wadena • 631-3690 www.paulsonagency.com

Submitted photo

Pixel Perfect Photography and Design studio is now open in Verndale. Cassandra Hodgden is the owner and photographer.

Jim’s Body Shop, inc.

Pro Auto SAleS

David & Joe Rousslang, Owners

1207 N. Jefferson St. • Wadena, MN 218-631-2182 • Fax: 218-631-4509

12236 HigHwAy 10 eASt

Inc.

wAdenA, Mn 56482

Piloting America’s Highways with Pride.

(218) 631-1037

45

Larry’s Electric

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Craig Hinman, Owner 615 SW 5th Street • Wadena • 631-3804

45

WADENA LICENSE BUREAU

Staples

N. Hwy. 71, Wadena • 631-3623

218-894-1645

YEARS IN BUSINESS

has been doing some photography in outdoor settings she is excited to have a completed studio so she can offer more options.

Pixel Pefect Photography and Design offers a full range of photography and graphic design services. She specializes in portraits of maternity, newborns, babies, children, families, pets, sports teams, prom, high school seniors and special events. She is serving the Verndale, Wadena and Park Rapids area.

She offers professional photo retouching as well as business, product and head shot photographs. Custom design of announcements, invitations, holiday cards and print materials for businesses is also available. She also does a limited number of weddings each year.

For more information or to set up a studio session, contact Hodgden at (218) 639-4283 or go to www.pixel-perfect-studio.com.

Rick’s Barber Shop 631-3424

324 Jefferson St. S., Wadena, MN Only barber left in town!

Over 90 years same shop, 51 years same barber!

Wadena

Eagle Bend

218-631-3556 218-738-5411

47

YEARS IN BUSINESS

51

YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

Community Progress

February 25, 2016

Wadena Veterans Park work continues with new design Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

The Wadena Veterans Park continues to move forward, although the overall design is a bit different than the original.

David Ludovissie, veteran’s park committee chairman, and Lane Waldahl presented an update on the project to the Wadena City Council last week.

The park is located on the south side of Sunnybrook Park adjacent to U.S. Highway 10. Whiskey Creek runs along the park and it was discovered the water table was high in the area, necessitating a change to the layout of several features.

Chris Youngbauer, with Youngbauer’s Landscaping, has been working with the veteran’s park committee on a different design that would have more of the features closer to the road and away from the river.

The committee also mentioned they would like to use the vacated Wadena Model Railroaders Club building that is adjacent to the new Wadena Veteran’s Park. It would be used as a military museum of some kind.

Councilman Don Niles asked what kind of timeframe the committee had for the project.

“We are kind of under the gun,” Ludovissie said. “We have grant money that needs to be spent by the end of June.”

The committee received a nearly $10,000 state grant with a $10,000 match from the local VFW. The council approved the new concept but asked that the committee return with more information about the possible use of the building so those details could be worked out.

The park will eventually have granite walls with the names of each deceased veteran from the area, in addition to displays of military equipment, an observation deck over Whiskey Creek and a local military museum.

Sidewalks will be poured and pavers and benches will be sold to line the paths at the park

53

YEARS IN BUSINESS

and be placed underneath the 50-foot flagpole.

The park will eventually include military hardware on display near Highway 10. The group has already secured a truck from the Army and has requests in for aircraft.

Long-term plans call for additional walking paths and memorials, an interpretive center and, for special events, an observation deck with a podium overlooking Whiskey Creek.

To donate, send checks to Veteran’s Memorial Park, 414 1st St. SW, Wadena MN, 56482. For more information and to order pavers or benches, call (218) 631-1672.

Fresh Freeze Enjoy our food and ice cream today!

Hwy. 71 North • Wadena • 631-1294

Serving the area for 61 years!

DOWNTOWN WADENA • 218-631-3066 Mon.-Fri. 9-5 • Thurs. 9-7 • Sat. 9-4

Your Geothermal experts

Esser Family of Companies Proudly serving the lakes area since 1955

949 North Jefferson Wadena, MN 631-1660

Martin Carpet Sales •Aladdin •Mohawk •Armstrong •Tarkett Sales & Installation 1306 S. Jefferson • Wadena

631-1403 AN EMPLOYEE OWNED BUSINESS SERVING YOU FOR 61 YEARS

Submitted photo

Members of the VFW Post 3922 raised the American flag for the first time at the Wadena Veterans Memorial on the southside of Sunnybrook last year. Work will continue this year on the project.

Celebrating 53 years of service!

“The Prescription Store”

LONGBELLA DRUG Health Needs • Cards Gifts • Cosmetics

55|State M|State M YEARS IN BUSINESS

Page 19

Wadena

Wadena

Four Pharmacy Locations

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

Discover your future at Discover your future at minnesota.edu minnesota.edu 631.7200 or 1.800.247.2007

631.7200 or 1.800.247.2007

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.

An Equal Opportunity Educator/Employer.

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System.

An Equal Opportunity Educator/Employer.

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

Brink’s Jewelry “Your Watch & Diamond Specialists” Downtown Wadena 631-3294

Fair Oaks Lodge: 218-631-1391 Fair Oaks Apartments: 218-632-1316

www.fairoakslodge.org

57

YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

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YEARS IN BUSINESS

PROGRESS 2016

Page 20

66

Internet Internet Television Television Phone Phone Security YEARSSecurity IN Computer Repair Computer Repair BUSINESS

888.99.ARVIG 888.99.ARVIG | arvig.com| arvig.com

66

Jennie-O Turkey

Store

Henning, MN

YEARS IN BUSINESS

218-583-2550

66

1-800-945-2163 www.wcta.net

YEARS IN BUSINESS

February 25, 2016

City approves bike trail improvements Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

A portion of Leaf River Recreational Trail will be widened utilizing grant money from the Department of Natural Resources.

The city of Wadena had applied for grant funding previously but wasn’t chosen to receive funds. Later, City Administrator Brad Swenson received a call recently from someone with the DNR Parks and Trails Legacy Grant program who said another city had turned down funding and Wadena was next in line.

The total project was to reconstruct the existing eight-foot wide trail to 10 feet and

replace a structurally deficient timber bridge on the Leaf River Recreational Trail north of Wadena. The initial grant request was for $382,580 with $134,420 coming from city funds. Since the city wasn’t initially granted the funds, it wasn’t included in this year’s budget.

The DNR is offering $113,000, which would cover only a portion of the project.

Money would need to come out of reserves, Swenson said.

The city received a new estimate of the cost to widen the trail and it would be approximately $150,350. This would leave about $35,500 that would need to be covered by the city.

70

YEARS IN BUSINESS

70

YEARS IN BUSINESS

76

YEARS IN BUSINESS

PO Box 470 • Wadena, MN • 218-631-1753 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

Hometown Crafts & Fabrics

and Custom Framing

111 So. Jefferson, Wadena

218-631-3141

Hours: M-F 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sun 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

76

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Wadena County unveils new website Anna Erickson aerickson@wadenapj.com

YEARS IN BUSINESS

77

Photo by Anna Erickson

A portion of the Leaf River Trail will be widened this summer using DNR grant funding.

Centered on you.

Financial solutions centered on you.

888.330.8482 | mycmcu.org |

Wadena County rolled out a new website in 2015.

County Coordinator Curt Kreklau said the new website will be a great improvement to the old site.

“It will be easier to navigate for one and be a far better public face for the county,” he said.

Users will be able to go to the site www. co.wadena.mn.us and search for exactly what they are looking for instead of having to figure out the department and scrolling through menus, Kreklau said.

The county’s previous website had a server housed in the courthouse and it needed to

be replaced. The maintenance was becoming difficult to manage, he said.

The new website will have a server housed and managed off site. Wadena County department heads will have access to the website and be able to update information, Kreklau said.

Not everything will be rolled out at once and some features might be added later on, he added.

The public will be able to easily find county board agendas and minutes, along with information from each of the county’s departments.

The county budgeted $30,000 for the new website but the total came in about $28,000, Kreklau said.

February 25, 2016

Community Progress

Page 21

The NU Store opening next week in Wadena The NU Store opened in 2015 to offer a wide range of family goods for infants through early teen, men and boys wear.

Linda Krebs of Maple Grove is the founder and owner. She raised four children as a single mother, has owned a daycare business for more than 25 years and has 13 grandchildren.

She experienced firsthand the need to stretch the family budget and in all these years has developed relationships with big and small retailers all over the Twin Cities from whom she purchases overstock, surplus and end of the season new name brand merchandise. She adds to this like-new items, with some purchased directly from other families.

Krebs’ mission is to bring to rural Minnesota the same types of bargain shopping she finds in the metropolitan area and provide premier quality merchandise to the Wadena region . She expects to price most merchandise between 50 and 75 percent below new retail price.

“Families in rural areas deserve some of the shopping advantages I can find in the cities” she explained. “That is my mission; to help families make their money stretch further.”

The NU Store is located in the former Village Emporium space in the JC Penny building in downtown Wadena.

The store has seen a face lift with a new floor, fresh paint and professional displays.

The NU Store will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays.

The NU Store will share a special Kids Corner with Harvest Thyme Bistro so the entire building is family friendly. Children can occupy themselves while mom and dad enjoy a meal, coffee or shop.

“This venture is a very exciting for me.

Opening a store that fills another empty space in such a beautiful downtown, bringing a highly valuable service to the rural region, becoming part of a downtown merchant culture and doing business in an environment where one gets to know customers on a first name basis.”

The NU Store opens to the public March 2 but Krebs is inviting business owners to stop in Sunday, March 1 for a sneak preview.

“I am really looking forward to becoming part of this community,” Krebs said.

�� Westrum

from 10

the elementary school which is presently under way.

Priority No. 5 was telling the district’s success stories in a wide variety of ways involving print media, broadcast media and even at Wadena’s Cozy Theater.

“Nothing really matters more than if you hear someone who you know or trust say they had a great experience at the school,” Westrum said.

Having fun with learning and a culture that promotes asking questions was also considered two important pieces in the plan.

After some discussion, the board gave approval to the committee’s plans, clearing the way for it to be implemented in the weeks and months ahead.

Westrum said some of the feedback the committee received was about bullying.

“We thought we needed a goal specific to bullying,” Westrum said.

Priority No. 4 regarded fiscal responsibility, which involved running a “good ship” which has a huge impact on students.

“Part of that fiscal responsibility is when we have a plan like this there are going to be some expenditures that are going to be necessary to carry out the plan,” Westrum said.

“We have to be willing to prioritize.”

Priority No. 4 was an obligation to provide quality facilities for grades Pre K-12. The first job was to carry out a facility analysis of �� Verndale

Custom from 17

on that expertise to get the business up and running.

“Verndale Custom Homes always had a great reputation,” Hess said of the former company. “They built a quality home. We intend to keep that tradition going.”

Hess said the opening of this next chapter for a business that seemed to be lost to Vern-

dale’s history books has excited the community.

“We felt it was important to get this open again and we felt it was important to provide good-paying jobs for this community.”

An open house for Verndale Custom Builders will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3 and Sunday, Oct. 4.

Forum News Service contributed to this report.

SUBSCRIBE WITH US! 631-2561

77

YEARS IN BUSINESS

HANSON’S PLUMBING & HEATING Steam • Hot Water • Forced Air Steve Peterson, Owner 310 11th St. N.W. • Wadena • 631-3172

MERICKEL LUMBER & DESIGN CENTER 218-631-3570 • 800-225-3570 M-F 8-5 • SAT 8-12 HWY. 10 WEST WADENA, MN 56482 www.merickellumber.com

WADENA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “We are partners in the success of our businesses and our members” 218-632-7704 www.wadenachamber.com

rexmcdonald 215 Jefferson, Wadena

STUDIO

Call 218.631.3129 www.glimpseofpersonality.com/blog

Find us on Facebook: RexMcDonaldStudioInc

Harms Manufacturing Inc. Manufacturing Farm Machinery

• Land Rollers and Farm Wagons Bertha, MN • 924-4522

81

YEARS IN BUSINESS

81

YEARS IN BUSINESS

82

YEARS IN BUSINESS

84

YEARS IN BUSINESS

87

YEARS IN BUSINESS

91

YEARS IN BUSINESS

City Dray Inc. 16407 US Hwy. 71 • Wadena, MN

631-3101

92

YEARS IN BUSINESS

PROGRESS 2016

Page 22

District court eFiling expands to Wadena County During the second week of December, Wadena County, along with other district courts across central and western Minnesota will begin offering court users the ability to electronically file and serve court documents through an online portal.

The move to electronic filing and service of case documents - known as eFiling and eService - is part of the Minnesota Judicial Branch’s eCourtMN initiative, which is transforming the state’s court system by replacing paper-based court files with an electronic information environment. The goal of the eCourtMN initiative - which received a 2014 State Government Innovation Award from the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs - is to make the state’s court system more accessible, more efficient and more convenient for court customers.

One of the key elements of the eCourtMN initiative is the establishment of eFiling and eService - giving case participants the ability to submit documents to the court and serve documents on oppos-

94

ing parties electronically, through an online portal. This allows court customers to file documents without traveling to the courthouse or paying for postage or courier costs, allows filers to submit documents immediately and outside of courthouse business hours, and allows court documents to be sent to filers electronically.

District court eFiling and eService has operated on a pilot basis in 11 district courts across the state - including Clay, Kandiyohi, and Morrison counties - for several years. Based on the success of that pilot, the Minnesota Judicial Branch began expanding eFiling and eService to the rest of the state earlier this year.

The Minnesota Judicial Branch aims to make eFiling and eService available in all 87 district courts statewide by mid-December.

Wadena County District Court will begin offering eFiling and eService Friday, Dec. 11. Following this expansion, eFiling and eService will be available in every district court in Minnesota’s Seventh and Eighth judicial districts.

State Farm Insurance Companies Bill Stearns, Agent 631-2999 or 1-800-292-2910 320 N. Jefferson Wadena

Jolene Johannes, Agent 631-1297 or 1-800-450-1297 763 Jefferson St. N Wadena

YEARS IN BUSINESS

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

99

HOME PURCHASES AND REFINANCES EP WE KEA L! C O L IT

YEARS IN BUSINESS

101 YEARS IN BUSINESS

104 YEARS IN BUSINESS

®

Wadena State Bank

www.wadenastatebank.com

Weber’s Wadena Hardware

February 25, 2016

WENSMAN Seed Technology for Your Success

www.wensmanseed.com

KENNEDY, CARLSON & VAN BRUGGEN, LLP ATTORNEYS-AT-LAW

Personal Injury. Divorce. Estate Planning

218-631-2505 www.kenelaw.com

www.kcvblaw.com

www.gorescompany.com the ONLY address you need in Real Estate 508 So. Jefferson Wadena (218) 631-2536

David Paulson Agency, Inc. Check With Us For All Your Insurance Needs • Auto • Home • Farm • Life • Health • Commercial • Bonds www.paulsonagency.com

631-3690 E. HWY. 10, WADENA, MN 56482

SCHULLER FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES Joseph and Meg Schuller - owners

Phone: 218-631-3632 205 4th St. SW • Wadena, MN www.SchullerFamilyFH.com

First National Bank in Wadena Consider Us “FIRST”!

25 Bryant Ave SW, Wadena, MN 56482 • 218-631-1590 www.fnbwadena.com • Member FDIC

More Than a Hardware Store!

Tom and Mary Dee Weber, owners Formerly Zosel’s Wadena Hardware

• Social Security Law • Personal Injury

109 Jefferson Street South Wadena 631-2454

• Estate Planning • Wills & Probate

218-631-1400 7 Colfax Ave. SW, Wadena, MN

• Family Law

Wadena-Deer Creek Public Schools 218-631-1100 TCHC.org

218-631-1100 TCHC.org

A Great Place to Learn and Grow!

(218) 632-2150 www.wdc2155.k12.mn.us LIKE us on Facebook for daily news!

106 YEARS IN BUSINESS

111 YEARS IN BUSINESS

118 YEARS IN BUSINESS

118 YEARS IN BUSINESS

123 YEARS IN BUSINESS

124 YEARS IN BUSINESS

132 YEARS IN BUSINESS

142 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Community Progress

Do It Best Hardware DOWNTOWN WADENA

Formerly Zosel’s Wadena Hardware

1-218-631-2454 • www.weberswadena.doitbest.com

www.JobsHQ.com

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.®

Stearns Insurance Agcy Inc

Honesty.

Respect.

Professionalism.

Courtesy

court and law enforcement databases. Use of eCharging and eCitations will become mandatory for adult complaints and adult citations statewide on July 1, 2016.

The Minnesota Judicial Branch has posted informational resources, training materials, and a three-step guide to starting eFiling and eService at www.mncourts.gov/ eFile. The Minnesota Judicial Branch also operates an eFile Support Center for filers with questions about the eFile and eServe system.

CONTACT AN AGENT TODAY.

Johannes Insurance Agcy Inc Jolene Johannes, Agent 763 Jefferson Street North Wadena, MN 56482 Bus: 218-631-1297

Stearns Insurance Agcy Inc Bill Stearns, Agent 320 N Jefferson Wadena, MN 56482 Bus: 218-631-2999

statefarm.com®

1101017.1

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

KENNEDY, CARLSON & VAN BRUGGEN, LLP

218.631.2505 www.kcvblaw.com

PAUL CARLSON

Karla Berger

Sue SueAnn AnnLind Lind

Diamond Ind. Dist. #496342

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DanielT.T. T.Carlisle Carlisle Daniel Carlisle Daniel

• •Social EstatePlanning Planning SocialSecurity Security Law Law • Estate • •Personal Injury • Wills & Probate Personal Injury Wills & Probate • Law Family Law •• Family Family Law

Wadena

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001382112r1

Attorneys at Law Trusted with all your legal needs for over 100 years.

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the courthouse; Creating an electronic portal for government partners - such as law enforcement, prosecutors, and public defenders – to more efficiently access court documents and records; Making it easier and more convenient for the public to view electronic court records from across the state at their local courthouses; Partnering with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to expand use of electronic citations (eCitations) and other charging documents (eCharging). These tools allow law enforcement and prosecutors to file citations and complaints electronically, from their office or squad car, with the data automatically transferred to

D004451099

109 Jefferson St. South, Wadena, MN 56482

Weber’s

001380497r1

Serving our community for 101 years!

ervice system to file court documents will become mandatory for attorneys, government agencies, guardians ad litem and sheriffs in all district courts statewide on July 1, 2016.

Use of the eFiling and eService system will remain voluntary for other filers, such as self-represented litigants.

In addition to electronic filing and service of court documents, the eCourtMN initiative includes a wide array of various projects that are utilizing new technologies to increase efficiency and expand access to information throughout Minnesota’s justice system. This includes: Providing judges and court staff with new electronic tools to more efficiently review and process court documents within

Honesty.

Respect.

Professionalism.

Courtesy.

“The Seventh Judicial District is proud to have had the courts in Clay and Morrison counties help lead the way with the eFile and eServe pilot,” said Seventh Judicial District Chief Judge John H. Scherer. “We’re now looking forward to seeing the rest of the counties in our district going live with this service over the next few weeks.”

Upon implementation, eFiling and eService will be voluntary for filers in non-pilot counties, meaning filers will still be able to file documents using the traditional, paperbased method. Electronic filing and service in these counties will continue to be voluntary until July 1, 2016.

Under recent amendments to Minnesota’s Court Rules, use of the eFiling and eS-

Page 23

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.

February 25, 2016

PROGRESS 2016

Page 24

February 25, 2016

More edge.

Less cutting.

Don’t worry about the laundry piling up at home. There won’t be enough time.

Tri-Minimally Invasive Surgery means shorter hospital stays and less time away from home.

See our surgeon videos at:

Jennifer Arnhold, M.D., OB/GYN

TCHC.org

415 Jefferson St. North, Wadena, MN 218-631-3510 800-631-1811

CLINICS Bertha Henning Ottertail Sebeka Verndale Wadena 001378608r1

HOSPITAL Wadena