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Serving Marine on St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2018 VOL. 34 NO. 39 www.countrymessenger.com $.75

SKATING RINK: Advertising signs considered. PAGE 2

Marine-raised athlete headed to second Olympic competition

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Leif Nordgren of Marine on St. Croix has been named to the U.S. Olympic biathlon team. The winter sport includes cross-country skiing and rifle shooting.

The winter games in PyeongChang, South Korea, next month will be Nordgren’s second Olympic competition. The Forest Lake High School graduate competed in four events at the Sochi games in 2014, with his highest-ranking finish as part of a 4x7.5-kilometer relay team that placed 16th.

“It’s pretty exciting to be named to my second Olympic team,” Nordgren told the Messenger last week. “The first time around in Sochi I was on the young side of the spectrum in biathlon, I have a lot more expe-

NORDICFOCUS/U.S. BIATHLON

Marine on St. Croix’s Leif Nordgren was named to the U.S. Olympic biathlon team Jan. 13.

rience now and will definitely be gunning for a top result. I can't wait to get to Korea and get underway. We have one last week of World Cup racing this week in Antholz, Italy, before our pre-Olympic training camp next week in Ruhpolding, Germany.”

Nordgren, 28, has raced for the U. S. on six world championship teams and was the top American finisher in two of the last four International Biathlon Union (IBU) Cup men’s races. He was selected for the U.S. Olympic team on Jan. 13, following two weekends of IBU Cup competition.

He trains in Lake Placid, N.Y., but said he still makes a point to ski his home trails, and expressed gratitude for the support he received as a young skier.

“My parents still live in Marine and SEE NORDGREN, PAGE 2

Marine makes progress in acquiring land

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Marine on St. Croix made progress in January on what city representatives hope will be part of a larger land acquisition deal.

The city is working to purchase land adjacent to the eastern edge of Highway 95, currently owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

“All that, where the gazebo is and all that land, is owned by MnDOT,” Councilman Lon Pardun explained. “We’re trying to

purchase that. … But they [MnDOT] just had right of way over some of the property, so to buy all of it we had to get the owners of the property to sell it to us.

Then we pay — I know it sounds weird — but we pay MnDOT for the privilege of now owning it.”

The land was taken via eminent domain in 1936, according to Councilman Bill Miller.

Marine’s city workers have been maintaining the property for years, but the city can’t build on or otherwise improve it.

“For the last 20 years we’ve been trying to work with the

OUTDOOR RECREATION

State of Minnesota and MnDOT to purchase it,” Miller explained. “The idea is that we can’t really legally do anything to that property because we don’t own it. We can’t build bathrooms, we can’t do any improvements.

“Our plan all along has been to purchase that property and have control of it,” Miller continued. “It was very difficult 20 years ago and now we’re having a better luck. What it allows us to do is better plan for the downSEE LAND, PAGE 6

Spicing up Vinterfest, Elim will host chili cook off

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

Organizers at Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia are planning a first annual Chili Cook Off during Vinterfest this Saturday. The event will benefit the Green Grocery Shares program, a branch of the Scandia-Marine Food Shelf that helps people afford fresh produce at the Scandia Farmers Market.

For $1 a cup, chili lovers become contest judges, sampling the options and voting on a favorite.

The event, new to Vinterfest this year, brings together a few different ideas, explained Associate Pastor Meredith McGrath.

“A couple years ago members of the Vinterfest committee had asked if the Elim congregation had any ideas for ways to participate in Vinterfest,” she said. “Lynne [Blomstrand] Moratzka had the idea for a chili cook off.”

McGrath wondered whether the cook off could tie in to feeding the community through funding for Green Grocery Shares.

“This could raise a little money for next summer’s shares and raise awareness about the program,” she said.

The winner takes home bragging rights and a golden ladle.

A bonus: At the end of the evening the Vinterfest fireworks show can be seen from the church’s southern windows.

“Depending on how cold it is it might be more pleasant to watch from there than standing outside,” McGrath said.

Vinterfest Chili Cook Off When: Sat., Jan 27, 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Where: Elim Lutheran Church, Scandia Eat and vote: Sample different recipes for $1 per cup and choose a favorite. Cornbread, coffee and lemonade will also be served.

How to compete: Call Elim’s office (433-2723)

by Wed., Jan. 25, and provide your name, phone number and the name of your chili, silly names encouraged. Then come to Elim’s Fellowship Hall with your crockpot of chili between 3 and 4:15 p.m.

Jan. 27.

Details: The winner of the Golden Ladle will be announced at 6:55 p.m. Fireworks start at 7 p.m.

Elim invites all to the warmth of the Fellowship Hall to watch the show. Proceeds help fund the Green Grocery Shares program.

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NORDGREN: Olympics

Scandia rink ads considered City allows home-based solar systems

BY KYLE WEAVER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

FROM PAGE 1

whenever I’m visiting I still get out on the trails in Jackson Meadow or William O’Brien to ski or run, they’re still some of my favorite places to ski!” he said. “I spent a lot of time in my high school years training all around Marine, Scandia, Stillwater and Forest Lake, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities and support from the locals there.

“The ski community in Minnesota as a whole is very tight knit,” he continued, “and there are a lot of opportunities for kids from a young age all the way through college and even post college to race and develop as skiers. The training I did there as a young skier definitely shaped me for my professional career in biathlon on the national team. On that note, of course, I have to give a shout out to my old high school ski coach from Forest Lake, Deno Johnson. I think he saw potential even back then and pushed me a lot to excel and develop a professional attitude about training.”

Nordgren reported that his parents will make the trip to South Korea next month to watch him compete. “It will mean a lot to have them in the stands,” he said, “and I know a lot of folks from the area will be tuning in to cheer as well!”

Nordgren completes a five-man team of Olympic veterans. His teammates are Lowell Bailey of Lake Placid, N.Y., Tim Burke of Paul Smiths, N.Y., Sean Doherty of Center Conway, N.H. and Russell Currier of Stockholm, Maine.

Stillwater man shot A young man was shot in a Stillwater neighborhood on Friday and later died.

On January 19 at approximately 7 p.m. the Stillwater Police Department was dispatched to Lakeview Hospital on the report of a gunshot victim. The victim, Charles O’Connell, age 18 of Stillwater, was pronounced deceased a short time later, according to a press release from the Stillwater police. The incident occurred at the 100 block of Bayberry Avenue Court, a residential area about 1.5 miles from downtown.

O’Connell was transported to Lakeview by private vehicle.

Stillwater Police Chief John Gannaway reported that another man has been detained as a “person of interest,” and said there is no further threat to the community of Stillwater. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation is investigating the incident.

Scandia-Marine Lions

VINT E R F E S T Free Pancake Breakfast Saturday, January 27 8 am - 11:30 am Serving: Pancakes, sausage, fruit cup, butter, syrup, coffee and juice

At the Scandia Community Center 14727, 209th St. • Scandia, MN

Free Will Offering Proceeds support Lions projects

Advertising dollars could soon be flowing into the city’s skating rink, according to a plan put together by the Scandia Parks & Recreation Committee.

Under the proposal, the parks committee would sell advertisements on the rink’s dasher boards. The signage would be sold in 35-inch by 8-foot increments at $200 per year or $500 for three years, looking somewhat similar to those along the outfield fence of Scandia’s lighted softball field. Funds raised through the advertisement sales would be earmarked for future skating rink improvements.

During their Jan. 16 meeting, the Scandia City Council seemed to favor the idea, but asked the parks committee to provide examples of what the advertisements might look like and also

provide cost estimates on their installation.

Mayor Christine Maefsky, in particular, raised concerns about the potential visual intrusion of such advertising on the skating rink’s outdoor setting.

“I think there are other things that we could do,” she said.

Home-based solar gardens Solar gardens for home use are now allowed in Scandia.

The council approved an ordinance allowing small-scale solar energy systems to be installed on rooftops and on the ground near homes.

According to a council memo, city landowners wishing to install a solar energy system would only require a staff review and a building permit. If the system is to be installed on the ground, it would be limited to 800 square feet.

A typical 10-kilowatt system, enough to power the average single-family home, would cover about 700 square feet.

City Administrator Neil Soltis noted that city staff would review each planned project for compliance with lot set-

backs and address any concerns about screening before handing them off to the city’s building official.

“The intent (of these systems) is to generate (energy) that is going to be used on the property,” Soltis said.

The move to allow home-based solar energy systems comes after the city repealed its community solar garden ordinance last September, when concerns were raised about the viewshed impacts of some of the larger commercial systems that were installed.

Sketch review ordinance The council approved an ordinance allowing city staff to conduct a concept plan review, or “sketch review,” of development plans, prior to holding a full conditional use permit review. The measure would assist home builders and landowners in identifying potential issues with construction designs or subdivisions before they invest a lot of money in a project.

“It really does simplify things and make it a whole lot quicker,”

council member Chris Ness said.

Other business: • The council granted its engineering firm, Bolton & Menk, approval to develop specifications for the city’s major road rehabilitation project to be done this summer. The city’s plan calls for taking out a $4.4 million bond for the project. A public hearing on the project will be held on Feb. 20.

• The council approved a step wage increase for City Treasurer Colleen Firkus, who will make $21.13 per hour.

• Council member Steve Kronmiller was appointed to serve as Acting Mayor.

• The council approved a letter of support for the Big Marine Lake Association’s application for a grant to combat Eurasian water milfoil in the lake.

• The Country Messenger was selected as the city’s official newspaper for 2018.

The next Scandia City Council meeting will be held Feb. 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Scandia man sentenced, bringing attempted abduction case to conclusion

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENGER.COM

A Scandia man who attempted to abduct a woman in Willernie last April has been sentenced to 10 years and five months in prison.

Washington County District Judge John Hoffman sentenced 35-year-old Michael Grant Harker to 125 months on Jan. 16.

Harker pleaded guilty in October to felony kidnapping and false imprisonment. The charges were based on a woman’s report that he’d grabbed her by the hair and tried to pull her into his van the evening of April 20.

The woman told police she had been smoking a cigarette outside her car near a Domino’s Pizza restaurant when a white van drove slowly past and the driver stared at her. The van parked across the street and the man got out. Thinking he might be upset that she was standing in a park-

Harker

ing space to smoke, she asked him “what his deal was,” according to the police report. He grabbed her by the back of her neck, shirt and hair and began to drag her toward his van.

According to the report, she began screaming and he punched her in the head. However, another woman heard the screams, saw the struggle and called law enforcement. Meanwhile, the victim escaped from Harker’s grasp and ran across the street, still calling out for help.

A nearby business surveillance video captured much of the incident, which was shown at the sentencing hearing, the Pioneer Press reports.

Washington County Sheriff Dan Starry has said stranger abductions are some of the most difficult cases to investigate.

“We are pleased the victim was recovered on site and that no further harm came to her,” he said last April.

Harker had been living in Scandia while on parole for felony strangulation and domestic assault convictions in Idaho.

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JANUARY 26 Family Game Night Friday, January 26, 5:30 to 8 p.m., join your neighbors and meet new families and friends for a night of games, pizza and popcorn. Bring your favorite game, and, if you wish, teach others. The library will have games as well. Free. All are welcome. Marine Village Hall (121 Judd Street).

FFI: MarineCommunityLibrary.org or 651-4332820.

JANUARY 27 Pancake Breakfast The Scandia Marine Lions club will have their annual Vinterfest Pancake Breakfast at the Scandia Community Center (14727 209th St, Scandia, MN) from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. There will be sausage, fruit cups, juice, coffee, real butter & syrup. Free will offering is appreciated.

Proceeds go to to Lions projects.

neobrien.com through Jan. 25. Day-of registration starts at 9 a.m. and closed 30 minutes prior to race start.

FEBRUARY 1 Marine Documentary The Marine Community Library and Marine Film Society will end its 2017-18 documentary series with the Sundance-selected documentary, “Most Likely to Succeed,” Thursday, February 1, 7 p.m. at the Marine Village Hall (121 Judd Street); doors open at 6:30. Presentation is free. “Most Likely to Succeed” examines the history of education in the United States, revealing the growing shortcomings of conventional education methods in today’s innovative world.

The film offers an inspiring look at what students and teachers are capable of — if we have the vision and courage to transform our schools.

Morning snowshoe hike Saturday, January 27, 9-11 a.m. Explore winter at Warner through the ancient art of snowshoeing. Learn basic snowshoeing techniques and hike through Warner’s woods. Snowshoes provided. *If there are not sufficient snow levels, we will still hike. $7 WNC Friends/Science Museum members; $10 non-members. Ages 8+.

JANUARY 28 Marine O’Brien Ski Race Races kick off in the morning with an 8 km Wood Ski Tour over mostly flat and moderately hilly terrain. Adult races are 12.5 and 25 km (single and double loop), circling William O’Brien State Park on both flat and hilly terrain. Children’s races are between 100 m and 6 km. Event proceeds benefit the St. Croix Valley Ski Club youth skiing program at Wm. O’Brien State Park. Register at mari-

FEBRUARY 3 MacPhail Sing, Play, Learn: A Musical Snowstorm Saturday, February 3, 10:00 a.m. Registration opens January 1. Join MacPhail Center for Music’s early childhood music specialists as we explore the magic of music and play.

Through hands-on musical play activities, families will experience music’s impact on learning and reading readiness. Together we will sing, rhyme, read, move and create! For one month old to five year old children and their caregivers. In the Marine Village Hall (121 Judd Street, Marine on St. Croix) FFI: http:// marinecommunitylibrary.org. Direct link to registration through Washington County Library: http://melsawashington.evanced.info/ signup/EventDetails?EventId=30153&l-

but I’m never alone.

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FEBRUARY 3 Stillwater Snowmobile Club Vintage Snowmobile Event Stillwater Snowmobile Club’s 5th Annual “The Older The Better” Vintage Snowmobile Event will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2018 from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Blacksmith Lounge, 17205 N. Forest, Blvd., Hugo, MN 55038.

Vintage sled and best outfit registration from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; sled judging: 11 a.m. to noon.

At 12:30 p.m. there will be a short vintage sled ride. Trophies, cash raffle, and door prizes.

Famous bake sale by Chef Carmel.There is an entry fee per sled.

Sleds are 1987 and older.

Admission is free for spectators. Trophies will be awarded in a variety of categories. Food and drinks available for purchase. Door prize raffle drawings starting at 2:00 p.m. Cash raffle will be drawn at 3:00 p.m.and trophies awarded at 3:15 p.m.

Visit stillwatersnowmobileclub.org/ for more details.

Meet Mr. William O’Brien William O’Brien was one of Minnesota’s most successful businessmen during the heyday of logging in Minnesota and the St. Croix Valley during the 1890s. He owned and operated logging camps, saw mills, even trains to move timber from Minnesota’s remote forests to build cities throughout the United States. His businesses survived despite the damages and losses caused by the Great Hinckley Fire of 1894. On Saturday, Feb. 3, at 3 p.m. local storyteller Dwight Wilcox will present an afternoon program as Mr. William O’Brien, explaining

how William O’Brien State Park was started through generous donations of the O’Brien family and relating the harrowing events of the 1984 Hinckley Fire. We will meet around the fire at the Visitor Center.

The program is free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to enter the park. Thank you for supporting your local State Park. William O’Brien is located two miles north of Marine-On-St. Croix on highway 95. For more information please call the park at 651-433-0500.

Candlelight Walk Along the St. Croix River William O’Brien State Park will host a special candlelight walk along the beautiful St. Croix River on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Start at the Visitor Center, then follow the flickering lights as they lead you down the hill, and then along Lake Alice and the St. Croix River. Look for stars and listen for owls as you walk along this packed 2.5 mile trail. When you make it back up the hill, hot apple cider, and marshmallows for roasting awaits you at the Visitor Center. The program is free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to enter the park. Thank you for supporting your local State Park. William O’Brien is located two miles north of MarineOn-St. Croix on highway 95. For more information please call the park at 651-433-0500.

FEBRUARY 10 Big Marine Vintage Snowmobile Show The Big Marine Lake Association, along with the Vet’s Camp on Big Marine Lake, is holding the third annual Vintage Snowmobile Show from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Included will be 8 classes of show snow-

mobiles, trail ride on the lake, bonfire, food & beverages plus trades and sales of used snowmobiles. A raffle will be held, all proceeds will go to Big Marine Lake Association in it’s fight against invasive species.

Volunteers are needed to help during the day.

Please join us, it will be fun! Call Linda at 651 471-8111.

Winter Buckthorn Burn Saturday, February 10, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Allemansrätt Wilderness Park (31316 N Olinda Trail, Lindström). Warm up this winter at our brushpile burning event at Allemansrätt Wilderness Park with Great River Greening, where invasive buckthorn is the fuel! Volunteers will haul, stack, and burn piles of buckthorn bush from within this 125-acre city park that is home to high quality oak forest, wetlands, lakeshore, diverse wildlife, unique glacial geology, and several miles of trails.

Volunteers are welcome to bring roasting sticks, hotdogs and marshmallows for roasting on the fires and buckets or chairs to sit on. Open to all ages (recommended age 8+). Light breakfast snacks and hot drinks (coffee, cocoa, and cider) will be provided. Pre-registration is required: greatrivergreening.org/ events/2018-winter-buckthorn-burn/

FEBRUARY 28 Big Marine Lake Association annual meeting The Big Marine Lake Association will hold it’s annual meeting on February 28, 2018 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Scandia Community Center. Financial reports will be reviewed, budgets approved, Board members will be nominated and elected, status of invasive species in Big Marine and statewide

will be reviewed, including a presentation of the Association’s eradication efforts. Status of various grants that support the Association’s work will also be discussed. Invasive species treatment plan for 2018 will be offered for approval.

The Scandia Community Center is located at 14727 209th Street North, Scandia.

ONGOING Stillwater support group for families

NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) sponsors free support groups for families who have a relative with a mental illness. Led by trained facilitators who have a family member with mental illness, the support groups help families develop better coping skills and find strength through sharing their experiences. The group meets on the first and third Mondays of each month, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Stillwater Library, 224 Third St. N., in Margaret Rivers Room A. Please use the Third Street entrance and free parking ramp.

FFI: Call Marie or Bob at 651-770-1436.

Alcoholics Anonymous Beginning Jan. 22, a group will meet Mondays, 7 p.m., at Elim Lutheran Church, Scandia, in Room LL2 (lower level 2). Enter through the preschool door.

Tri-County Seniors (50+) DFL Luncheon Meeting (Eastern Anoka, Southern Chisago, & Northern Washington County’s) 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. (First Tuesday of each month) Vannelli’s By The Lake Restaurant - Broadway & 55 - So. Lake Street. Forest Lake, MN 55025 For more information email: ckgenz@msn.com or call 763-227-7536.

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JANUARY 24, 2018

Send in the drones

U

nmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), more commonly known as drones, are aircrafts without human pilots onboard. Unmanned aircraft have been in existence since before the Wright brothers made their historic flight, mainly utilized by the military.

Drones have been used in film and television photography, providing stunning visuals that were very difficult to be captured with earlier technology. Advances in battery technology have ushered in smaller radio-controlled drones for hobbyists and photographers.

Initially seen as a way to get surveillance of hostile enemies without risking the lives of pilots, have evolved as a way to Publisher drones conduct warfare via remote control. The technology being used Tom Stangl today was primarily created by the Israeli military.

There are many potential uses for drones from public safety to commerce. It was theorized a short time ago that retailers would be able to deliver products to your door using drones. The reality of the having thousands of these devices buzzing around the nation has brought the dream back to the ground. Regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for drones to fly in the nation’s airspace is at the top of a list of hurdles that will need to be cleared before your packages are dropped at your door by remote control.

While widespread use of drones as a delivery device is a few years off, the technology is being used in several ways that are making an impact today.

I read a story last week about drones that gave me hope that this technology can be used to improve our lives.

Two teenagers swimming off Australia’s far north coast were having trouble with the heavy waves last week and owe their lives to a drone.

Someone on the beach alerted lifeguards, who happened to be in the middle of a drone training session.

According to news reports, Lifeguard supervisor Jai Sheridan got the call and piloted the drone, dubbed "Little Ripper," toward the swimmers, about 2,300 feet over the ocean. Within 70 seconds the drone was hovering over the boys and had dropped a self-inflating rescue pod into the water.

"I was able to launch it, fly it to the location, and drop the pod all in about one to two minutes. On a normal day that would have taken our lifeguards a few minutes longer to reach the members of the public," Sheridan told The Sydney Morning Herald.

The swimmers grabbed the yellow floating tube and made their way safely to shore, exhausted but unharmed. Without the drone, it could have taken lifeguards three times as long to reach the boys.

The state of New South Wales has invested $340,000 in drone technology, currently in a trial period. I think it’s safe to say that in this case the technology has proven itself.

There are justifiable concerns about safety and privacy as drone usage becomes more widespread.

We will need to carefully consider the ramifications of the technology, but in cases like the rescue of the swimmers, where the drones can help save lives, it makes perfect sense.

Technology with proper human supervision is worthwhile. Letting artificial intelligence call the shots is dangerous, in my opinion.

Having a tool that provides an extension and enhancement of human abilities to rescue people is literally a no brainer.

As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress. com, telephone 715-268-8101 or write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.

Thanks for reading; I’ll keep in touch. Feel free to do the same.

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Wild whitefish on Green Bay

“

Fish on, fish on,” was the call that echoed through our rented permanent ice shack on Green Bay three miles off shore near Sturgeon Bay. Rods were bending as the Vexilar flasher lit up with fish. The Fish Whisperer, Jon McCorkle from North Branch had the first couple of fish hooked and on the way up from 65 feet below. Waxies were being served to hungry whitefish on this balmy 40 degree day, but a cold front was coming in later that night.

My brother Dick Bennett of Hudson followed suit with the next couple of fish in crystal clear aqua blue water. You could see the fish fighting way down below us after they were fooled with our slider rigs.

A drop shot bottom bouncer lead weight took you down to the bottom.

Three small red hooks were tied Wild River on the line, one near the drop shot and the other two a foot above each Trails other. The top two were able to slide up and down the line as we thumped Jim Bennett the drop shot on the muddy bottom to stir things up and attract fish. It worked well this first day and eventually I figured out a proper technique that put a bend in my rod too.

We had booked our trip with Bret Alexander of Alexander’s Sport Fishing, who has 30 permanent heated, comfortable clean shacks on the ice. One of his guides, John Nandory, met us at the designated boat ramp with a powerful Polaris Ranger, that com-

fortably held 5 people for the drive out to the shack.

If you have never traversed Great Lakes ice you are in for some fun with ice heaves, cracks, slush and ice piles along the shore that were no match for the Ranger. One spot along the way had an ice bridge constructed with heavy marine grade plywood and studs to get us safely across an open crack on the ride out.

The large plastic tub in the shack began to fill up with fish after our guide showed us the ropes before leaving to bring another couple of groups out to other shacks. By then the three of us were becoming whitefish professionals as we fought fish after fish to the surface. That’s when Jon and Richard began to have some problems with fighting whitefish tangling their lines. Super line can be difficult to untangle so it was more like watching a couple of knitting grandmas, knit one pearl two, as they struggled to untangle hooks, weights and lines.

I didn’t help matters for the knitting team when I called out “Fish on!” or “Look at all the fish on the Vexilar!” from other side of the shack as I watched those two trying not to hook themselves. By noon we had our 30 fish limit and Nandory took our catch to an open shack to fillet them as part of our package deal. Later that night we enjoyed restaurant quality “boneless” whitefish fillets in our furnished VRBO (rental house) just outside of Sturgeon Bay. Jim Bennett is an outdoorsman who lives and worked in the St. Croix River Valley and can be reached at jamesbennett24@gmail.com.

LETTER GUIDELINES Letters to the Editor are published with priority given to letters that are concise (350 words or less) and exclusive to our newspaper, from readers in our general distribution area.

All letters are subject to editing for grammar and clarity and must contain the undersigned’s full name and their address and daytime telephone number for verification. (Addresses and phone numbers will not

subscription in Washington County is available for $26, two years is $45.

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NEWS ITEMS: editor@countrymessenger.com News releases of general interest must be at our office by Friday noon to be considered for publication.

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Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

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The Country Messenger (USPS 005-172) is published weekly by Sentinel Publications, 108 Cascade Street, P.O. Box 248, Osceola, WI 54020. Periodicals postage paid at Osceola, WI 54020. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Country Messenger, P.O. Box 96, Scandia, MN 55073.

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Grown-up Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup

T

here is no better way than to conquer the snow and cold than with a hot cup of soup and a hot crusty cheese-filled sandwich.

Growing up I loved grilled cheese sandwiches, but as an adult I prefer them layered with more flavorful cheeses—more grown up. They make any kind of soup taste good—even canned soup, if you don’t have time to make your own.

My dad loved Havarti cheese on Lavosh crackers. He would heat the crackers topped with cheese in the oven for a buttery treat. I loved it too, and I remember getting in big trouble for wasting it on a grilled cheese sandwich. He thought it was Wild Chow too expensive and it should be used more judiciously.

Lisa Erickson The price of imported Havarti has come down in the last 40 years.

Also, Havarti is now made in the U.S. According to the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board, Havarti is a milder version of German tilsit that was first made popular in Denmark. The Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a Wisconsin-style Havarti that is firmer in texture and with a more buttery flavor than other types, now made by many Wisconsin cheese makers.

Adding Havarti cheese makes any sandwich taste buttery, even if you don’t add any butter. I also love Boursin cheese and the way it spreads on a piece of bread. I use the garlic and herb version. Add it with the Havarti and nicely aged cheddar and you will have the perfect ingredients for the best grilled cheese sandwich you’ve ever had!

Last man standing Raymond takes no prisoners in final hours In all my days growing up in Lennox Valley, I can’t remember a day as tense as Thursday, August 20, 1998. Old-timers still say the tension could match any moment in Valley history, before or since.

As Raymond began hour six of the special edition of his daily show, “Renderings with Raymond,” listeners continued to hang on to his every word. One caller after another praised Cooper’s leadership as he stood up to the elite media and government authorities who blocked his way along every path.

Raymond had been hinting all day there would be a special surprise during the sixth hour of the show, as he welcomed a different guest at the top of each hour. Guests had already included Farley Puckett, owner of the local hardware store; Earl Goodman, postal carrier and the first to “nominate” Raymond for the mayor’s office; Vera Pinrod, president of the Auburn Hat Society; Brother Jacob, who left quickly after explaining to Raymond that something had suddenly come up five minutes into his appearance as Cooper took his hand, asking the young associate pastor to pray a prayer of victory; and Worley Fain, chaplain of the Lennox Valley VFW. Raymond asked Chaplain Fain to prepare a prayer in advance, suggesting he might use one Cooper had penned himself, but actually came from his bedside “Book of Famous Prayers.”

“Dear Lord,” began Worley, “You know our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the government author-

ities, against the powers that be, against the forces of darkness, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness that surround us.”

Father O’Reilly and Lars Svendsen, senior pastor of Lennox Valley Lutheran Church, made a habit of having a late lunch every Thursday afternoon at The Haufbrau. As they dined on Reuben sandwiches and sauerkraut, each sipped on his favorite brand of lite beer.

As did most businesses in the Valley, the ‘brau played “Renderings with Raymond” on the sound system as diners enjoyed their meals. As Chaplain Fain began his prayer, the clergymen almost spit beer from their mouths as they recognized the words from Ephesians, Chapter 6.

The men admitted to each other they hadn’t been to the voting booth yet. Lennox residents were divided into two precincts.

Residents who lived within the “town” precinct voted in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church. Raymond had mentioned on several occasions the location held an unfair advantage for Mayor Bland, who was a member there.

Folks who lived in the “country” precinct voted at the VFW, located on Highway 11. Cooper never seemed to notice the same could be said about the polling location of the country precinct.

You would be hard pressed to find a VFW member who wasn’t solidly in Raymond’s corner.

As was often the case, the two veteran parsons took their time, enjoying the solace of conversation between close friends.

Jessie, waitress at the ‘brau for

longer than anyone could remember, quizzed her customers. “Who do you think the surprise guest will be, padres?”

She called all the local clergymen “padre,” except Brother Prather, who took exception to the colloquial tone. She had yet to settle on a nickname for Sarah Hyden-Smith.

“It’s not me,” quipped Father O’Reilly.

“Me, either,” added Pastor Svendsen, “although my shadow,” sarcastically referring to Brother Jacob, “took advantage of the limelight for a brief moment this morning.”

The three hushed as Raymond began hour six of his show.

“Our guest for this hour needs no introduction,” Raymond began. “I have on the phone none other than Dean Morris, who starred as Deke McClellan in ‘Don’t Shoot Nellie!’ which is quite possibly the most memorable fi rst-season episode of ‘Walker, Texas Ranger.’”

“Good Lord,” sighed Father O’Reilly.

“It sounds like you’re doing mighty important work in Leonard Valley,” began Morris.

“Those folks are sure lucky to have you on their side.”

Cooper responded with words that seemed totally authentic to his listeners, “I’m humbled.”

The part-time celebrity was on and gone within three minutes, but Raymond Cooper was certain Dean Morris had just put him over the top.

Learn more about the Good Folks at LennoxValley.com.

What stories will we leave behind?

I

Grown-up Grilled Cheese for Two 4 sliced good quality, sturdy multi grain bread 2 slices Havarti cheese 2 slices aged cheddar cheese 2 Tbsp. Boursin cheese, garlic and herb 2 Tbsp. butter Over medium heat, set a cast iron griddle to heat up until hot, but not smoking.

Butter one side of each slice of bread and place one, butter side down on griddle and carefully spread with Boursin cheese. Place one slice of each of the other cheeses on Boursin and top with the last slice of bread, butter side out. Repeat with other sandwich. Cook until bread is golden brown. Flip and cook other side until golden brown. Plate and cut in half. Serve with hot tomato soup.

Lisa Erickson is a food columnist who loves adventure and food. You can find more recipes at www. wild-chow.com or email her at wildchowrecipes@ gmail.com.

hardly noticed when the date passed: January 12.

These past few years it has marked the anniversary of my work as editor of the Country Messenger and Sun newspapers.

On that day this year, I visited centenarian and longtime Scandia resident Mignon Johnson at her apartment in Chisago City. After I’d interviewed her we got to taking about my job, and I told her that the best part about it was getting out in the community to meet people like her and hear their stories.

I can’t think of many career paths Editor that bring you face to face with a Suzanne Lindgren stranger for the express purpose of learning about their passions, dreams, achievements or the wisdom they’ve acquired over a lifetime.

It’s a delight, and it’s meaningful to me. Knowing these stories brings history’s texture to everyday experience. Now I’ll think of Mignon at the intersection of Highway 97 and Olinda in Scandia, knowing that she lobbied for the four-way stop.

Similarly, I often think of Motorbooks founder Tom Warth when I bring my son to day care at the book company’s former headquarters in Osceola.

And I love to imagine old Prosper Young stashing leftover beer under the bar at PY’s to use as a head

start on the next pour. (That last bit is lore that might never be verified, but it’s too remarkable to forget.)

I’ve heard many stories during my relatively short tenure here, and they turn up everywhere as bits of knowledge. The other day we took a family drive to run a few errands. After Strummer vomited (fun times!) we made an emergency pit stop on Sheffield Road in May Township.

“This is where they found evidence of indigenous people who lived by the river before settlers came,” I announced to Matthew before hopping into the back seat to clean our child as best I could.

After we got home we washed Strummer’s coat, his clothes and the car seat cover. Before long the incident was all but forgotten. Moments pass quickly. Even a village might be forgotten with time — only to be uncovered again, the story of its people reconstructed with broken pottery and the ashes of cooking fires.

We’re all part of the long and continuing history of this river valley. Learning some of the stories makes that fact more palpable and, for me at least, brings greater perspective. Because no matter how long any of us are here, ultimately we’re all just passing through. What stories will we leave behind?

I welcome your response to this editorial column: editor@countrymessenger.com.

COUNTRY

.com

6 COUNTRY MESSENGER

JANUARY 24, 2018 www.countrymessenger.com

SUBMITTED

Scandia Elementary celebrates first Unity Day

When Scandia Elementary IB World School students walked into their classrooms on January 12 they were greeted with a brand new Scandia t-shirt, courtesy of the Scandia Parent Teacher Organization. That was just the start of the Unity Day celebration at Scandia Elementary IB World School. Students then went to the gym for an all school assembly, where they watched a video staring many of their teachers and peers, saw a skit performed by Student Ambassadors, sang the school song, and participated in a school cheer lead by physical education teacher Kori Pearson. They ended the assembly by taking an all school photo wearing their new shirts. The theme of the Unity Day celebration was that all Scandia Stars unite to be safe, respectful and responsible as they start 2018. Shine bright, Scandia Stars!

Siren or bust, a snowmobile tradition keeps on trekking

DEBRA NEUTKENS

Since 1968, PHRA members have departed from the White Bear Lake area to Siren, Wisconsin, preferably by snowmobile, but sometimes by car. This year's 29 riders departed Jan. 19 from the Hugo American Legion on marginally snow-covered trails.

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS EDITOR — WHITE BEAR PRESS

A snowmobile club co-founded by a couple of White Bear Lake guys is celebrating a golden milestone this month: 50 years.

Since 1968, club members, all male, have embarked on a January ride to Siren, Wisconsin. It started when three local men fused their enthusiasm for the sport with their business acumen to form a club called Pizza, Holiday House, Race Association or PHRA for short. It's billed as the oldest active snowmobile club in Minnesota, maybe the world.

The trio of founders included Dave Olson, owner of Dave's Pizza on Highway 61 and Third Street in White Bear Lake; Rudy Dreiling (deceased), who owned the Holiday House and White Bear Bowl, and Shoreview resident Don Heningfield (deceased).

Current club chairman Chad Lehrke, of Lino Lakes, said the PHRA name is a bit of a misnomer since the annual winter event is a rally, not a race.

Lehrke grew up in Vadnais

Heights and credits his dad Ron Lehrke for getting him started in the PHRA. The younger Lehrke has been a member since 1995 but is not this year's longest active member riding in the rally. That honor goes to John Pole, a retired dentist from Cottage Grove, who has a penchant for old Chris Craft boats and old cars.

Pole has a 1974 patch that signifies his first year on the 100-mile ride.

He also wears bib No. 5, making him one of the few remaining members with a single digit number.

Members earn their bibs by passing a rookie ritual their first year.

One of the club's many time-honored traditions directed at rookies includes taking a 1973 Polaris Colt on and off the trailer at every “rest stop.” (There are always support drivers hauling a trailer in case of breakdowns. Someone always breaks down.)

Rookies also guard a giant PHRA whistle that serves as a mascot. Lehrke explained that if anyone kicks the 5-foot wooden whistle, and they do for whatever reason, a $2 fine is SEE PHRA, PAGE 12

LAND: Marine planning to purchase property FROM PAGE 1

town: water, streets, improvements, signage, you name it.”

On Tues., Jan. 9, the Washington County Board approved the transfer of a sliver of land near Parker Street to Marine for $1,350, Pardun reported to the Marine council. The Marine council approved said purchase Jan. 11.

News of the deal prompted a discussion about the larger plot of land and its potential uses. The council’s plan is to keep it as green space, an idea that received some resistance from Marine resident Mike Tibbetts.

“I believe that if there’s land available on that side of Judd Street that can be developed commercially with buildings, that option should exist,” he said.

However, according to Councilman Dan Willenbring, MnDOT had at one time valued the property as commercial and the City of Marine couldn’t afford the asking price.

“We went after it with the idea of maintaining it as green space,” Willenbring said.

According to the city’s engineer, Ryan Goodman, the most recent review of the land deemed it “unbuildable” because any hypothetical buildings would not meet codes including street right of way setbacks, and septic and well requirements.

“We are not purchasing that land to sell it for commercial use,” said Councilman Pardun. “That’s

the intent of this council.”

“That’s what I’m opposed to,” said Tibbetts.

“I think there should be an opportunity for entrepreneurs and people interested in commerce to come to Marine and purchase property, and build buildings and conduct business. As far as there not being an adequate sewer system, that needs to change so that this could happen.

“I don’t want the village sold short and I don’t want to live in a park,” he continued. “I’d like to see more commercial vitality in the village center.

Because if you’re going to spend the money on the streets and the sidewalks, you need to have it earn its keep. And I think that means more density, more tax revenue, and you do that with more commercial ventures downtown. In the future if someone decides they want to put buildings where the gazebo is — they used to be there and the profiles exist — I’m worried that if the city buys the property it automatically becomes another park and we don’t have the opportunity to have another stretch of main street with buildings on both sides of the street, which I think is an attractive and vibrant aspect to any community.”

“I don’t think this council would do anything to prevent something from happening in the future,” said Councilman Willenbring. “But the current thought of the comprehensive plan and the council is to maintain that space as green space.

To your point, we don’t want to limit our options 20 years down the road.”

Other business • The council named Jack Warren the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement award and Lisa White as Citizen of the Year. The Messenger is planning more detailed follow up coverage of both.

• The Holiday Committee continues to seek new volunteers to help with set up and clean up for July 3 and 4 festivities. If interested contact Chris Mowery: 651-433-4957 or chris.mowery@marineonstcroix.org.

• Marine will contract with Chase Peloquin for city assessment services.

Peloquin is Scandia’s city assessor and works full time for Chisago City.

• Fire and Rescue Chief Dan Malmgren reported that the fire and rescue crew made 95 runs in 2017. An preliminary review indicated that emergency medical runs stayed consistent but that non-EMS fire runs had increased, though Malmgren said he would have an official review to the council next month.

• The council adopted a neighborhood service overlay district within its single family urban zoning district, with the intent to preserve patterns of use that have been in the neighborhood and avoid disruptions to those longstanding uses.

• The Marine Library Association was granted a temporary liquor license for its Oscar party, Feb. 24.

JANUARY 24, 2018

COUNTRY MESSENGER www.countrymessenger.com

PIGSKIN PREDICTIONS SUPER CONTEST Pick the winning team and the final score of the football game on Sunday, February 5, for a chance to win $50 in Football Bucks!

RULES & INSTRUCTIONS:

Come watch the Big Game with us!

Additional entry forms available at The Sun office

1. Select the Winning Team and record selection on the Official Entry Blank.

2. Determine the final score and record on the Official Entry Blank.

3. Complete the entry blank and return by mail to The Country Messenger, P.O. Box 96, Scandia, MN 55008; or in person at 108 Cascade Street, Osceola, WI 54020, before 4:00 pm Friday, February 2, 2018.

4. Enter as many times as you want but entries must be submitted on an Official Entry Form.

5. Winner will be announced in Country Messenger, Wednesday, February 7, 2018.

6. In the case of a tie, winners will be selected randomly. Decision of the judges is final.

7. Winner will be awarded Football Bucks that can be spent at the sponsoring businesses shown on this ad only.

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Lions award Peace Poster winners

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MON-SAT: 8am-8pm • SUN: 8am-7pm

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CAROL SEEFELDT

Left to right: Lion Marilyn Opp, Parker Lyden, Lion Patsy Krinke, Lion Shellie Kolden and Scandia winner Savana Doboszenski.

The Scandia Marine Lions awarded Peace Poster winners at their Jan. 11 meeting. The winner from Scandia Elementary was Savana Doboszenski and the runner up was Parker Lyden. The River Grove School winner was Lucas Janet and the runner up was Ike Domke.

For the last 30 years Lions clubs around the world have sponsored the Lions International Peace Poster Contest in local schools and youth groups. This art contest for kids encourages young people worldwide to express their visions of peace, according to the Lions International organization.

The theme of the 2017-2018 Peace Poster Contest was "The Future of Peace." Students ages 11 through 13 were eligible to participate.

Each winner received $50 and a certificate from the Lions.

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River Grove winner Lucas Janet with his winning poster.

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7

8 COUNTRY MESSENGER

JANUARY 24, 2018 www.countrymessenger.com

PUBLIC NOTICES CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333 1. The exact name under which the business is or will be conducted: For The Doggy.

2. The address of the principal place of business: 8068 Ivywood Avenue South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016.

3. The complete name and street address of all persons conducting business under the assumed name, OR if an entity, provide the legal corporate, LLC, or Limited Partnership name and registered office address: Jesus Ruiz, 8068 Ivywood Avenue South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016.

4. I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities, I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath: Cheyenne Moseley.

Dated December 27, 2017.

Filed with the State of Minnesota.

Published in The Country Messenger January 17 and January 24, 2018 Ordinance Summary ORDINANCE No. 192, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 122, THE SCANDIA DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 1, SECTION 8, CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS

On January 16, 2018, at a Regular Meeting of the Scandia City Council, by majority vote, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 192 which amends the Development Code to add the option for a concept plan review of Conditional Use Permit applications.

A printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at City Hall or by standard or electronic mail.

Published in The Country Messenger January 24, 2018 Ordinance Summary ORDINANCE No. 193, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 122, THE SCANDIA DEVELOPMENT CODE, CHAPTER 1, SECTION 4.2 – DEFINITIONS AND CHAPTER 2, SECTION 4.33 -- PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS On January 16, 2018, at a Regular Meeting of the Scandia City Council, by majority vote, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 193 which amends the Development Code to provide for the regulation of passive solar energy systems as accessory structures and adds relevant definitions to terms used within the regulations.

A printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at City Hall or by standard or electronic mail.

Published in The Country Messenger January 24, 2018

CITY OF MARINE ON ST. CROIX WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 180111-01 ORDINANCE NO. 149 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF MARINE ON ST. CROIX AMENDING THE MARINE ON ST. CROIX CODE, SECTION 5 – ZONING DISTRICTS AND DISTRICT PROVISIONS, TO ADOPT A NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICE OVERLAY DISTRICT WITHIN THE SINGLE FAMILY URBAN ZONING DISTRICT. THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MARINE ON ST. CROIX DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: The Marine on St. Croix Code, Section 5 – Zoning Districts and District Provisions, is amended to add the following: 506.7. Neighborhood Service Overlay District.

(1) Purpose. This district is created for the purpose of preserving congruent and compatible uses in the

Answers

Single Family Urban District and for the following additional purposes: (a) to provide that land and buildings which have been historically integrated in and providing service directly to the residents of the adjoining neighborhood continue to be put to compatible uses, and (b) to avoid disruption to longstanding development patterns and neighborhood uses.

(2) Application. The provisions of this section are hereby adopted as an overlay district and shall apply to the following underlying Zoning Districts.

SFU Single Family Urban (3) District Boundaries. (a) The boundaries of the Neighborhood Service Overlay District are identified as depicted in the Amended Zoning Map which the City adopted January 11, 2018.

(4) Uses. The permitted, accessary, interim and conditional uses set forth in § 506.2 – 506.5 shall not apply. Instead, the following listed uses shall be allowed: (a) Permitted Uses. i. Single family detached residential residences ii. Schools iii. Federal, state and local government buildings and structures, including police and fire stations, public works facilities iv. Churches v. Public Parks and playgrounds vi. Home Occupations as defined in § 407.2. (a) Accessory Uses. i. Garages ii. Fences iii. Gardening and other horticultural uses iv. Recreational equipment The District Performance Standards at § 506.6 shall apply.

Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage and publication according to law.

WHEREUPON, said Ordinance was declared passed and adopted this 11th day of January, 2018.

By Glen Mills, Mayor Attest: Lynette Peterson, City Clerk Published in The Country Messenger January 24, 2018

County Board accepts sex trafficking investigation, training grant for task force The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved a 2018 Sex Trafficking Investigations and Training grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs Jan. 16.

The grant is for $313,000 to be used through Dec. 31, 2019.

Also Jan. 16, the board approved a joint powers agreement between the Oakdale Police Department, the Woodbury Public Safety Department, and Washington County to form the East Metro Trafficking Task Force.

Task force members will work together to identify and investigate sex trafficking crimes in the east metro area.

The task force operations will be governed by a board comprised of the county sheriff, county attorney, and the chief of police from each of the cities. The board shall determine overall task force priorities, budgets, and

operational policies and procedures.

The board will ensure the task force activities are carried out in accordance with the rules and guidelines contained in the grant contract that provides funding for the task force.

The grant will fund personnel assigned to the east metro task force to combat sex trafficking, paying for training, equipment, travel, and program expenses.

At its Jan. 9 meeting, the County Board also approved the addition of a sergeant to the staff of the Washington County Sheriff to work with the East Metro Sex Trafficking Task Force.

The sergeant is needed to direct investigations and supervise the seven individuals who comprise the task force. The task force will employ a collaborative and proactive approach to sex trafficking interdiction throughout the metro area.

Community Thread hosts ‘Aging with Gusto: Igniting More Positive Views of Aging’ Community Thread is excited to host Aging with Gusto: Igniting More Positive Views of Aging. This program, provided by the Vital Aging Network, will focus on the impact that attitudes about aging have on quality of life, health and longevity.

During this interactive session, participants will examine

CLUES ACROSS 1. Measurement (abbr.)

4. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

7. Sorting 12. Attribute 15. Poked holes in 16. Angers 18. Doc 19. MLB journeyman pitcher Dillon 20. Not don’t 21. Snubs someone 24. Where kids bathe 27. One might be in distress 30. Chair 31. Music industry honors (abbr.)

33. Dash 34. Owed 35. Caucasian language 37. One thousand (Span.)

39. Musical style drum and bass 41. Evergreen trees native to warm climates 42. Begin __: start fresh 44. Marshy outlets 47. A chicken lays one 48. Yemen’s largest city 49. Conversion rate 50. Single Lens Reflex 52. Atlanta rapper 53. Reduce the importance of 56. Faces of buildings 61. Something achieved 63. Distribute again 64. Tooth caregiver 65. 007’s creator CLUES DOWN 1. Skater Lipinksi 2. Data 3. Single step 4. Destroyed financially 5. Fail to interpret correctly 6. Fava d’__: tree found in Brazil

their personal views on aging and listen to the views of others. They will learn to understand the influence of their personal views, examine widespread biases and misconceptions about aging, and learn to integrate a new, more positive narrative about aging into their own life.

This program will

7. Vehicle 8. Limited 9. Old English 10. Aussie golfer Norman 11. Job 12. Loose-fitting undergarments 13. Protected by balancing 14. Give up 17. Fifth note of a major scale 22. Extravagantly bright 23. Takes dictation 24. 19th letter of Greek alphabet 25. Rounded knob (biology) 26. French philosopher Pierre 28. Mothers 29. Dardic ethnic group 32. Supports the rudder 36. An ugly evil-looking old

be held at Community Thread’s Stillwater location on Friday, February 9 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided by Presbyterian Homes & Services: Croixdale. The program is free and open to all.

Space is limited, please register by February 1 at 651-439-7434.

woman 38. Of a fasting time 40. Filled with passengers 43. Below the ribs and above the hips 44. Binary-coded decimal 45. 51 is a famous one 46. Goes into a funk 51. Chief O’Hara actor 54. Videocassette recorder 55. Scored perfectly 56. Type of tree 57. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 58. Popular commercial “pet” 59. Supreme god of Ancient Egyptians 60. Room in a home 62. __ and behold

JANUARY 24, 2018

COUNTRY MESSENGER

9

www.countrymessenger.com

COLOR COPIES River Grove Elementary receives available at St. Croix Valley Foundation music grant The St. Croix Valley Foundation last week announced the recipients of its most recent competitive grant program. The foundation awarded $33,589.30 to 19 schools in Wisconsin and Minnesota through its Music Education grants program, including a grant for start-up supplies for the music program at River Grove Elementary in May Township.

“Music has shown to have a positive impact on student learning, self-discipline, thinking skills and creative abilities” remarked Kris Tjornehoj, chair of SCVF’s Music Education grant panel.

“And there is a pressing need to provide resources that sustain and enhance music programs in our schools, whether to repair and replace aging instruments pieced together with wire and duct-tape, to give students exposure to world class musicians, or to extend loan-

er instruments to students when their family’s financial resources are limited.”

Music Education grants are given annually, each December.

They are made possible by a donor whose gift established an endowment fund. The donor, herself once a music teacher, wished to give the gift of music to students of all ages, from pre-school through high school.

The SCVF provides donors with the opportunity to create or add to Valley Impact Funds for causes that are closest to their hearts. The Foundation has funds addressing a variety of causes including music education, the arts, health and wellness, the environment, and animals. The advantage of these funds is their mission is unchanging yet they remain current and flexible. We cannot guess tomorrow’s issues

or know which organizations can best address those issues at that time. However, through Valley Impact Funds and the competitive grants programs, the SCVF places grant dollars in the most capable hands at the right time, in perpetuity.

“The St. Croix River region continues to benefit from generous donors who want to give back to improve their communities” commented SCVF Board Member, Matt Thueson. “It is an honor to see our donors’ wishes spring to life each year through these grants.”

The next round of competitive grants, focused on arts and health and wellness, are due on February 4, 2018. Please visit http:// scvfoundation.org/ for additional information on grant guidelines and eligibility.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT University of Minnesota, Morris

The Sun

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“Your Life, Your Style” ere... h g n i liv o!

I love will to u o y and “I moved here July 2015 when I could no longer manage on my own. My family was relieved that I was safe. CCH is a friendly, homey atmosphere and the staff is excellent.”

Ramona was involved with the formation of CCH. She said “the dream was to connect the Ramo na Paulso on, hospital, nursing home, assisted 91 Ye ars Young living and exercise facility to create a complete wellness environment”. She takes pride in her involvement to see the dream ful½lled.

Christian Community Home of Osceola

MORRIS, Minn. (Jan. 18, 2018) - David Smith, of Amery , has been named to the University of Minnesota, Morris Dean's List for the Fall 2017 semester.

To be eligible for the Dean's List students must achieve a grade point average of 3.66 or higher while taking 12 or more credits, with two-thirds of these credits on the A-F grading system.

2650 65th Ave., Osceola, WI 54020 • 715-294-1100 www.cchosceola.org

COUNTRY

Our Campus includes: 24-Hour Skilled Nursing • Assisted Living Apartments Transitional / Short-term Rehabilitation

Morris is the University of Minnesota's public liberal arts college, a residential campus located in west central Minnesota.

Call today to learn more or to schedule a tour!

AREA CHURCHES Ascension Episcopal Church

Forest Hills United Methodist Church

Lord of the Lakes Lutheran Church (LCMS)

Osceola United Methodist Church

St. Joseph Catholic Church

214 North Third Street N, Stillwater (651) 439-2609 • www.ae-church.org Rev. Marilyn Baldwin Rev. Buff Grace, Rector Rev. Brenda Hoffman Mindy Boynton, Christian Ed/Youth Nancy Whipkey, Music Sunday: 8 a.m. Holy Eucharist, no music 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist, with music

Hwy. 97 at County Road 34 S.E. Forest Lake (651) 464-5249 Pastor: Rev. David Werner www.foresthillsumc.net 10:15 a.m. Sunday worship

25402 Itasca Avenue Forest Lake, MN 55025 651-462-3535 / lordofthelakes.org Pastor Craig Bertram Regular Worship 8:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Communion First and Third Sundays 9:00 a.m. Coffee Fellowship 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Adult Bible Class

306 River Street Osceola, WI (715) 755-2275 osceolaunitedmethodistchurch@gmail.com Sunday: Worship 10 a.m.

Fellowship at 11 a.m.

490 Bench St., Taylors Falls, MN (651) 465-7345 Father John Drees Sat. Mass 5:30 p.m.

Sun. Mass 7:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

River Valley Christian Church

St. Joseph Catholic Cluster

Maranatha Church Chisago Lakes Campus

Lake Elmo (651) 430-9950 5900 Lake Elmo Avenue N. (Hwy 36 & County Road 17) Pastor Jon Neitzel, Teen Pastor Greg Hamm Children’s Pastor Karen Hynes Sunday Worship and Childrens’ Church 9:30 a.m. Nursery available.

Saturday Worship and Children’s Church, 6:00 p.m.

Sunday Teen Service 7:00 p.m.

Osceola (715) 294-2243 Rev. Andy Anderson Saturday Mass: St. Joseph’s, 4 p.m.

St. Anne’s, Somerset 5 p.m.

Sunday Mass: Assumption, East Farmingon 8:30 a.m.

St. Anne’s, Somerset 8 & 10 a.m.

St. Joseph’s, Osceola 10:30 a.m.

Call for weekday mass and reconciliation schedules.

The Baha’i Faith For information about Baha’i Faith or times and places of meetings call (651) 433-3686.

Christ Lutheran Church 150 Fifth Street, Marine (651) 433-3222, office ext. 10 Pastors Joel Martin and Hannah Bartos Sunday Worship 8:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.

Kid’s Church during 9:45 service.

Wednesday Life Night schedule: Community Supper at 5:30 p.m.

Faith formation classes for all ages at 6:30 p.m.

Elim Lutheran Church Scandia (651) 433-2723 www.elimscandia.org Senior Pastor Scott Westphal Associate Pastor Meredith McGrath Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. in Elim Sanctuary Christian education for all ages: 8:45 a.m.

Faith Lutheran Church (ELCA) Forest Lake (651) 464-3323 886 North Shore Drive Pastors: Rev. Philip Peterson, Rev. Paul Brown Sunday Worship: Traditional, 7:45 & 9:00 a.m.

Praise Service: 10:30 a.m.

Grace Church 722 Seminole Ave. Osceola Pastor Mark Barlow Amy Germain, Day Care Bety Greydanus, Office Manager “The Cure for the Common Church” e-mail: info@gracechurchosceola.com www.gracechurchosceola.com or call (715) 294-4222 or (715) 755-3454 Sunday: Praise and Worship Service 9 a.m. with Children’s Church Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School 10:45 a.m.

Christian Child Day Care Monday-Friday 5:30 am – 6 p.m.

Hosanna Lutheran Church (ELCA) Living, loving and serving as Jesus did... so that all may know him.

9300 Scandia Tr. N. Forest Lake (651) 464-5502 www.hosannaforestlake.net Linda Friesen, Lead Pastor Jen Collins, Associate Pastor Sept-May Worship Schedule Sunday 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.

In Great Hall (lower level) Wednesday (thru Apr) 6:00 p.m. in Garden Chapel (upper level)

Lakes Free Church www.lakesfree.org Lindstrom (651) 257-2677 29620 Olinda Trail N. Senior Pastor Richard Stanghelle, Associate Pastor Jason Carlson Sunday Worship 9 & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9 & 10:30 a.m.

10963 Lake Blvd. (Hwy 8) Chisago City (651) 257-8605 Pastor Bill Headley Worship service Saturday, 4:30 p.m.

Sunday service 9:30 a.m.

Osceola Community Church 2492 Education Dr., Osceola, WI Larry Mederich, Pastor (715) 417-0608 • www.occconnect.org Sunday Worship 9 a.m. with provided Nursery Kids Church 9:30 a.m.

Meeting in home groups throughout the week. Call for details, 715-294-4332.

Osceola Medical Center Spiritual Care 2600 65th Avenue, Osceola, WI www.myomc.org/specialtyserv_1chapel.php 715-294-5645 fax: 715-294-5712 email: alan.hagstrom@myomc.org Chapel open daily for meditation.

St. Croix Falls United Methodist Church Upper St. Croix Parish 300 N. Adams St. • (715)-483-9494 Pastor Carolyn Saunders Pastor MIke Brewbaker Sunday Service 10 a.m.

St. Croix Valley Friends Meeting Stillwater (651) 439-7981 Seventh Day Adventist Church, Fifth & Laurel Streets Sunday Worship: 10:00 a.m. Childcare available.

St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Franconia (651) 465-7345 Sunday Mass: 9 a.m.

Father John Drees Three miles north on Hwy. 95 from Hwy. 97. West on Redwing 1/4 mile.

Trinity Lutheran Church (WELS) Osceola (715) 294-2828 300 Seminole Avenue Sunday Worship: 9 a.m.

Sunday School/Bible Class: 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday worship: 7 p.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church Stillwater (651) 439-7400 www.trinitylc.org • 115 North Fourth Street Pastors: Dan Poffenberger & Stephanie Vos, Saturday Evening Worship: 5 p.m.

Sunday Worship: 9 a.m Traditional; 10:30 a.m. The WALK Contemporary Worship Children’s Learning, Sunday 9 a.m. and on Wednesday 6 p.m.

Wednesday 7:15 p.m. “The River” Youth Worship

10

COUNTRY MESSENGER

JANUARY 24, 2018 www.countrymessenger.com

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JANUARY 24, 2018

COUNTRY MESSENGER

11

www.countrymessenger.com

To close the digital divide, it must first be identified

BY JORDAN RASMUSSEN CENTER FOR RURAL AFFAIRS

Despite the potential for broadband to modernize the economy in rural America, access and availability continue to lag. The President’s recent executive order affirmed this limitation and the need to commit resources to close rural America's digital divide.

Yet, the ability to pinpoint where service is and is not available is fundamental to closing the digital divide in rural areas.

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, funding was allocated to establish

a comprehensive nationwide map of existing broadband capability and availability. Funding for this program ended in 2014.

Some states, like Minnesota, have adopted legislation or maintained this degree of regulation that requires internet service providers to provide access and speed availability data at a granular level.

However, reporting standards vary and often allow for telecommunication services to be reported at the census block level. In many rural areas, census blocks span entire counties, leaving room for error in reporting service availability.

The accuracy of data collected

from internet service providers is an important tool used to determine where broadband access is sufficient and where it can be improved.

This data is invaluable to state agencies and local entities to identify where public resources should be invested.

For the 23 million rural Americans who do not have broadband speed access, census block data is not sufficient to recognize and address the broadband gap. As federal and state governments seek to close rural America’s digital divide, it is imperative that gap is closed at the granular level, where it exists.

Snowmobile safety awareness week set for Jan. 20-28 Gov. Mark Dayton has proclaimed Jan. 20-28 as Snowmobile Safety Awareness Week in Minnesota.

This an opportunity for the Department of Natural Resources, volunteer safety instructors, the Minnesota United Snowmobilers Association (MNUSA) and its 250 member snowmobile clubs to join together to recognize the importance of safe, responsible snowmobiling.

“It’s a fun and exciting activity, but snowmo-

bilers should always remember to make safety a top priority,” said Conservation Officer Bruce Lawrence, DNR recreational vehicle coordinator. “They should also always use common sense and keep a clear head when riding.”

Here are some other key safety points: • Snowmobiling and alcohol don’t mix - don’t drink and ride.

• Smart riders are safe riders – take a snowmobile safety training course.

• Always wear a helmet and adequate clothing.

•When night riding slow down – expect the unexpected.

• Know before the ride – always check local trail and ice conditions.

• Cross with care.

• Know risks and be prepared – make every trip a round trip.

• One is the loneliest number – never ride alone.

• Ride safe, stay on the trail – respect private property.

To legally ride a snow-

mobile in Minnesota, residents born after Dec. 31, 1976 need a valid snowmobile safety certificate. Options for both classroom and online classes can be found at http://www.dnr.state. mn.us/safety/vehicle/ snowmobile/index.html People can find Minnesota snowmobiling events and activities on the MNUSA webpage: https://mnsnowmobiler. org/get-involved/mnusa/ events.

County will receive funds for children’s mental health screening, crisis response services Washington County will receive two grants from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), after the County Board accepted them Jan. 16: a $53,600 grant for children’s mental health screening and $235,000 to support the delivery of crisis response services.

Children’s mental health screening and adult and children’s crisis response services are mandated by state law.

One DHS grant provides state funds to support children's mental health screening, assessment, and mental health services to children in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. The grant has been made available to the county in the past; funds received for 2017 were $57,820. The grant amount varies each year as it is based on reimbursement for the number of children's mental health screenings completed in the prior year.

The 2018 Children's Crisis Response Services grant supports the delivery of crisis response services to residents, including a 24-hour telephone screening and triage, mobile crisis response teams, face-to-face crisis assessment and/or intervention, community stabilization, and crisis clinic psychiatry services.

Children’s Crisis Response Services in Washington County are provided through a contract with Canvas Health and the grant dollars will be passed through to Canvas Health. The total amount of increase for 2018 is $82,220, allowing Canvas Health to add an additional full-time staff person to provide crisis response services. In addition to the increase in funding, DHS has allocated an additional $35,000 to cover under-insured individuals, in addition to the uninsured individuals whom the county has served in the past.

PHONE: 651-433-3845 | FAX: 651-433-3158 16

23

352

Lost & Found

Free Items

A CHILD'S CAPE was found on the sidewalk in Osceola. It can be picked up at the Century 21 office on Cascade Street.

HAVE SOMETHING TO give away? Run three weeks, nonbusiness related for FREE. Must be from the area. To place an ad call 715-294-2314.

Home/Office Organization

102

454

Services

Storage Rent

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Farmington Mini Storage: For all your storage needs. Now offering climate controlled units. 10x10, 10x15, 10x20, 10x25. Now accommodating 5th wheelers, boats and campers.

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Problems with your car insurance? Tickets? Accidents? Been canceled? Call Noah Insurance for help at 715-294-2017.

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EMPLOYMENT

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SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 844/290-5838

DONATE YOUR CAR truck or boat to Heritage For The Blind. Free 3-day vacation, tax deductible, free towing, all paperwork taken care of 800/439-1735

A PLACE FOR MOM The nation’s largest senior living referral service. Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is free/no obligation. Call 844/347-2104

DISH NETWORK 190+ channels. Free install. Free hopper HD-DVR. $49.99/month (24 mos.) Add high speed internet - $14.95 (where avail.)

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12 COUNTRY MESSENGER

SHERIFF’S REPORT

JANUARY 24, 2018

www.countrymessenger.com

City of Marine on St. Croix

City of Scandia

JANUARY 14

JANUARY 12

At 5:40 a.m. an accident with unknown injuries on Ostrum Trail, east of Parade near the tunnel, was reported.

At 6:10 p.m. an injured deer on Broadway Street

by Mill Creek Bridge was reported.

At 8:20 a.m. theft was reported at the north launch of Big Marine Lake.

At 10:44 a.m. a third party requested a welfare check on Bone Lake.

At 12:05 p.m. a DUI arrest was made on Manning and 228th Street.

JANUARY 15 At 1:41 p.m. identity theft was reported on Pine Cone Trail.

JANUARY 17 At 12:51 p.m. a welfare check on 5th Street was requested.

JANUARY 13 At 1:49 p.m. a 911 caller hung up on 197th Street.

JANUARY 14 At 5:35 a.m. a suspicious male on 240th and Manning was reported.

At 7:22 a.m. an alarm

sounded at Big Marine Lake Liquor.

JANUARY 15 At 5:14 a.m. an accident on Manning, southbound from Scandia Trail, was reported.

At 9:09 a.m. a vehicle off the road on Scandia Trail and Novak was reported.

At 12:43 p.m. a hit and run on Olinda between 240th and Highway 97 was reported.

At 1:47 p.m. a medical need on Ozark Avenue was reported.

JANUARY 16 At 12:15 a.m. a driver on Manning and Mayberry Trail was cited for

speeding.

At 4:35 a.m. a medical need on Oakhill Court was reported.

JANUARY 17 At 5:22 p.m. sexual harassment was reported on Scandia Trail.

JANUARY 18 At 8:05 a.m. a deer tag was requested on Olinda Trail.

At 8:27 a.m. a third party reported a carbon monoxide or smoke detector was sounding on 238th Street.

JANUARY 19 At 12:43 a.m. a driver on Scandia Trail and

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Lofton was cited for not possessing insurance.

Town of May

JANUARY 12 At 4:46 p.m. a driver on Manning and 170th Street received a written warning for driving after suspension.

At 6:26 p.m. a medical need was reported on Ostlund Trail.

JANUARY 14 At 5:57 p.m. a welfare concern was reported on St. Croix Trail.

JANUARY 15 At 12:07 a.m. a vehicle off the road on Manning and 170th was reported.

At 10 a.m. a stalled vehicle on 130th and Par-

tridge was reported.

At 2:36 p.m. an accident north of 170th on Manning was reported.

At 2:41 p.m. a welfare concern was reported on Paul Avenue.

At 9:39 p.m. a vehicle in the ditch on 170th and May Avenue was reported.

At 11:20 p.m. a dead deer in Norell, north of Square Lake Trail, was reported.

JANUARY 17 At 7:51 a.m. extra patrol was requested on St. Croix Trail.

JANUARY 18 At 4:33 p.m. lift assistance was needed on 155th Street.

PHRA: Snowmobile tradition FROM PAGE 6

imposed. He couldn't remember why rookies guard the vaunted whistle, but no matter. They can't abandon their duties either, or they face a fine. In fact, small fines are imposed for just about any slight infraction, all in fun, of course. The money supports the “extra stuff we do,” Lehrke said.

Last year a member actually proposed to his girlfriend at the club's Thursday night banquet prior to the ride. “He got fined for interrupting,” Lehrke recalled.

Members sponsor rookies who must ride in costume, according to club tradition. “Rookie of the Year” is an honor bestowed at the Saturday night banquet in Siren.

One year Greg McCullough of Hugo won Rookie of the Year dressed as a cheerleader. His costume was such a fan favorite that it resides among the club's treasured archives, along with Dreiling's racing jacket and a pink tutu worn by Dave Garceau, owner of Garceau's Hardware and Power Sports in Vadnais Heights (deceased). He had a pink helmet to match.

Lehrke put the word out to veteran riders this year to gather for the 50th anniversary. He's keeping his fingers crossed the old-timers show to share stories.

Member Pole is going to receive a lifetime achievement award.

PHRA members have ridden in 30 below temperatures (1972); and more than one blizzard. One particularly bad storm occurred in 1974 that closed Wisconsin's Highway 35. The snowmobilers rode six abreast down the two-lane roadway from Luck to Siren.

“Anything that can go wrong has gone wrong,” Lehrke noted. “People have run out of gas and bumped into trees; sleds won't start or skis fall off.”

Snow cover is crucial, of course. When trails lack the necessary white stuff, stalwart members drive rather than cancel the rally. The last few years, snow has been particularly sparse the weekend of the ride.

According to Lehrke, there are probably a half dozen guys who have yet to snowmobile to Siren. “But they've stuck it out,” he said. “It shows the camaraderie. I think the PHRA will continue for many years to come.”