e-edition 12/28/17

Pioneer PINE CITY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2017

VOL. 132 NO. 52 www.pinecitymn.com $1.00

FINALLY FACING HIS WATERLOO: Schifferdecker describes re-living the famous battle. P9

Man robbed at gunpoint in Hinckley

BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pine County Toys for Tots celebrates success Pine City Ambassadors Summer Rockstroh and Jill Tomczyk and Little Miss Ambassadors Brenna Nowling and Amiah Nowling helped celebrate the success of the 2017 Toys for Tots program in Pine County. Coordinator Julie Samuleson said that 80 volunteers helped 256 households with 599 children receive toys, and over 1,500 toys and $1,000 came from Pine County. Samuelson expressed her gratitude to the Pine County community for helping to bring so much joy to so many local children.

Anthony Charles Hansen, 36, of Minneapolis has been charged with two felony counts of robbery and one felony count of illegal possession of a firearm after allegedly robbing a Hinckley man at gunpoint.

According to the Pine County Sheriff’s Office, on Dec. 20 at 9:24 p.m.

Pine County deputies were dispatched to the parking lot of an apartment complex on 7th Street SE in Hinckley on a report of a robbery.

The 911 caller said that a male had robbed him at gunpoint and then fled with two others in a purple Jeep towards Highway 61. A deputy in the area located the vehicle at a residence along

Anthony Charles Hansen

Highway 61 and detained the occupants – an adult male, a juvenile female and a juvenile male.

The 911 caller said that he is friends with the juvenile female, and said she had messaged him SEE ROBBED, PAGE 14

Decades of friendship help break down borders

BY JESSE LOGAN NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

When Pine City’s Elizabeth Logan arrived at La Aurora International airport in Guatemala City on Saturday, Nov. 25, she was excited to see a familiar friend. Although her connecting flight in Florida had been delayed 20 hours, that wait hadn’t dampened her spirits. The relationship between Logan and Cutu Martinez is unique, and these two friends had once gone 23 years without seeing or communicating with one another. Twenty hours paled in comparison.

“Cutu is what is so special about Guatemala,” the Pine Citian said when asked about the motivation for this trip, her sixth to the coun-

try since 2013. “I just loved reconnecting with her because she was a childhood friend. She’s 13 years older than me and was like the cool big sister I never had. I call her ‘tia’ which means aunt, and when I’m here she really takes care of me.

She has a way about her to make me feel special and loved. It’s easy to respond to that.”

Logan and Martinez have met up five times in Guatemala in recent years, but their story actually began a long time ago on a farm in Indiana. Logan, now 41, was just 11 years old at the time.

“My aunt, Christie Nelson, was a missionary to Puerto Barrios (Guatemala) in the early 80’s,” Logan explained. “She worked with the local people and built friendships with

them. One of them was Cutu.”

Cutu Aurelia Martinez was born in Guatemala in 1962. In addition to being Guatemalan, Cutu is Garifuna. The Garifuna people are the decedents of West African slaves, brought to the western world in the 1600s. Today the Garifuna’s number about 300,000 in global population and occupy significant areas of eastern Guatemala, Honduras, Belize and Nicaragua. Very sick as a child, Cutu missed a lot of school and had only completed the sixth grade at the age of 17. Invited by Nelson to visit her family in the United States, Cutu came to Indiana on a student visa and would enroll in high school despite not SEE FRIENDSHIP, PAGE 13

JESSE LOGAN | THE PIONEER

Cutu Martinez of Guatemala and and Elizabeth Logan of Pine City have been friends for the past 30 years..

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DECEMBER 28, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

Sauter steps up as Pine City’s community development director

BY MIKE GAINOR EDITOR@PINECITYMN.COM

New Pine City Community Development Director Lezlie Sauter knows the community she’ll be working for.

Sauter grew up north of Pine City and attended Pine City High School. She and her husband Jonah live with their four young children west of town, not far from Pokegama Lake.

Her studies in college led her to undergraduate degrees in biology and chemistry, but Sauter grew frustrated trying to find a good job in her field. About 12 years ago she took a job with the nonprofit Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, Inc. in Mora.

“They were looking for a project manager that had experience in research and grant writing,” Sauter explained.

Lakes and Pines, which serves Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine counties, offers a variety of programs and services meant to fight poverty at the local level, including energy assistance, weatherization, emergency housing assistance, preschool programs, home improvement, tax assistance and more.

Sauter said that once she started at Lakes and Pines she found herself drawn to the work.

“It was a really good fit,” she said. “I enjoy doing things that help the community. That’s kind of why I went into biology and chemistry – it’s the bigger picture, being a part of something that can help a lot of people.”

She took on more responsibilities and was eventually promoted to community services director. In this role she worked with regional economic development organizations across the seven counties Lakes and Pines serves.

“I did find myself gravitating towards

Pine County and Pine City a lot,” Sauter said. “Maybe that’s a little selfish, but it’s nice to see the benefits of your hard work pay off where you’re actually raising your kids.”

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR As the new community development director Sauter has a long to-do list already. She said she wants to do what she can to help Pine City grow.

“There are a lot of housing leads here,” she said. “There’s the potential for housing to be developed beyond the single-family units that you see going up. There’s potential there to bring in a hotel. We also have opportunities to meet with new prospects to bring businesses to town. There are a lot of little things going on, and I’m excited to see if we can’t maybe wrangle them all in.

“You drive down Main Street, you can see there’s some potential for growth,” she continued. “Nobody likes to see a vacant building or lot on their Main Street, but it’s got to be a whole concerted effort to get that filled in.”

Though she’s eager to help the city grow, Sauter said she wants that growth to happen in the right way.

“Zoning is one of my biggest issues – making sure that each project you have going on is fitting within your codes and what’s going on in your comprehensive plan,” she said. “If we don’t have that good foundation, the rest of it is not going to come together.”

She encouraged community members to attend planning commission and city council meetings to get in touch with how their local government works.

“You have to make your voice known and get involved in your planning processes so that your town looks like what you want it to look like,” Sauter said.

She said she’s excited to be working in

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

Lezlie Sauter will bring her Pine City roots and Lakes & Pines experience to the role of Pine City’s community development director.

the town where she grew up, and said she will work hard for the Pine City community.

“I accomplished a lot of things at Lakes and Pines, and when I say I’m going to do something I’m actually going

to do it,” Sauter said. “I’ll follow through to the end. Obstacles and problems don’t scare me. I see it as a problem or a challenge to fix it.”

Northern Hollow Winery lends a hand to Pine County veterans On Tuesday, Nov. 28, Jim Truhart, of Northern Pine Wineries, presented a check for $550 to Ben Wiener of the Pine County Veterans Council. The donation is the proceeds from their third annual Veterans Fundraiser, held the weekend before Thanksgiving each year. The Veterans Council will use the donation to support the Pine County Veterans Van Program which provides transportation for veterans to their appointments at VA medical centers.

Sponsors of the fundraiser event included Northern Hollow Winery, Barb Dryer Studio, Grand Casino Hinckley, Walmart, Pine City, Sheer Obsession, Brenda Mans, Ooh La La Lazer, Thrivent Financial #LIVEGENEROUSLY, and Chris’ Foods Pine City.

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congratulations to the Week 16 Football Contest Winner Fran Southwick Look in the Jan. 4th issue of the Pine City Pioneer for Week 17 Winner

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& DECEMBER 28, 2017

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

DEC. 28 Race with Legos Kids 6-11 are invited to use Legos to create things that “go” and race others to win prizes from 2-4 p.m. at the Rush City Public Library, located at 240 W 4th St. Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution-Pine City Ruby’s Pantry food distribution will be held 5-6:30 p.m. at Pine City Armory, 1305 Main St. S., Pine City. Registration starts at 4:30 p.m. For $20 donation receive grocery items. Open to anyone; no income requirements. Bring own boxes. For info call Julie Samuelson at 320496-3009 or Facebook at Ruby’s Pantry Pine City MN.

Celebrate the coming New Year during a kids’ party at the Rush City Public Library. Kids ages 6-10 will enjoy a scavenger hunt, goofy games, crafts, snacks, the library’s very own “ball drop” and more during this Super Saturday event from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The library is located at 240 W. 4th St. in downtown Rush City and can be reached at 320-358-3948.

Basketball Alumni Game Pine City boys basketball will be holding an Alumni Game at Pine City High School gymnasium. Start time is 10 a.m., doors open at 9:30 a.m. Pizza to follow.

This is a great way to connect former alumni to current alumni and players. The event is free.

DEC. 31

Free Bingo for Seniors Free bingo from 1:30-3 p.m. at Golden Horizons Assisted Living, 1305 8th St. SW, Pine City.

Seniors 55 and older, free refreshments, prizes and fun.

Reflections Memory Cafe Family Pathways invites those dealing with memory loss to Eastwood Life Enrichment Center at 1:30 p.m. to share your stories and socialize with others who are concerned about memory loss in a relaxing setting.

Coffee, treats, activities, conversation and companionship.

Senior Community Dinner Eastwood Life Enrichment Center invites seniors to come at 5 p.m. to learn about topics important to promoting healthier aging and independence while enjoying good food, musical entertainment and fellowship with other seniors in our community. Located at 170 Valhalla Circle, Mora.

Donate Blood Memorial Blood Centers will be accepting blood donations from 12-6 p.m. at the Isanti Community Center, 121 Norelius St., Isanti. To reserve a spot call Tommie at (651) 332-7162 or visit www.MBC.org/searchdrives and enter sponsor code 9797.

DEC. 29 Open Skate Come ice skate at the Pine City Civic Center, from 12-2 p.m. for Youth Open Hockey at 1225 Main St. S, Pine City. For info call 320-629-6995.

Open House for Donna Heath Come help Donna Heath celebrate her retirement from the Pine City Pioneer on Dec. 29, from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Pioneer office, 405 2nd Ave. SE, Pine City. For more information call the office at 320-629-6771.

Free New Year’s Eve luncheon Senior citizens and handicapped individuals are invited to ring in the New Year during daylight hours beginning at 11 a.m. at Open Arms Church in Grasston. A free meal will be served at 12:30 p.m. and entertainment by the Mystery Mountain Boys will follow. Call 888-344-5464 for (required) reservations by Dec. 23.

Countdown to 2018 Kids Party at Rush City Library

Model Railroaders Club Meeting The Model Railroad Club meets the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pine County History Museum & Event Center, 6333 H.C. Anderson Alle, Askov, Minn. They are building a model railroad depicting the historic Pine County railway system.

All are welcome to join.

JAN. 9 Winter Wildlifers From 10:30-11:30 a.m. families are offered a chance to discover wildlife through stories, songs, hands-on activities, games, crafts, and snacks. Winter Wildlifers is a free, no-registration, no-obligation program that encourages families to get out and enjoy nature. Dress for the weather. Ages 2-8. At Crex Meadows, 102 Crex Ave., Grantsburg, Wis. For info email Lauren at laurren.finch@wisconsin.gov or call 715-463-2739.

JAN. 10

Open Ice Skate Open ice skate from 2:20 p.m. to 4:20 p.m. and Youth Open Hockey from 4:20 to 6:20 p.m., Pine City Civic Center, 1225 Main St. S, Pine City. For more info call 320-629-6995.

JAN. 2 Crochet & Knit Nights If you love to crochet or knit join others from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Pine City Public Library Community Room at 300 5th St. SE. No matter what your experience or age, bring your own projects and join this free group.

Pine County North STARS in collaboration with Grand Casino Hinckley and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, has scheduled a day-long symposium related to sex trafficking and exploited youth. Event is 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Grand Casino Hinckley Ballroom. Register in order to attend at https://www. eventbrite.com/o/pine-county- north-stars-15925135038. For information contact Bonnie Rediske at 320-591-1581 or by email at Bonnie.rediske@co.pine. mn.us.

JAN. 3

JAN. 11 Snowshoe Adventures

Hands for Pine City Outreach Church invites community members to join with others in a weekly Blessing of Pine City prayer. For more information contact Julie Samuelson at 320496-3009.

Join us this winter for a series of snowshoe adventures around the Crex Meadows Visitor Center. Practice walking in snowshoes while learning about winter wildlife! All ages welcome!

Some snowshoes provided, or bring your own. From 11 a.m. to noon at Crex Meadows, 102 Crex Ave., Grantsburg, Wis. For info contact Lauren at lauren.finch@ wisconsin.gov or 715-463-2739.

JAN. 4 Memorial Blood Drive There will be a Memorial Blood Center blood drive in Pine City at the Pine City Courthouse, 635 Northridge Dr., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information or to sign up to donate, call 1-888-GIVE-BLD or visit www.MBC.org.

JAN. 6 The bi-monthly peace walk in Cambridge will start at 9 a.m. in the parking lot at Hwy. 95 and

JAN. 13

JAN. 11, 18, 25 Free Computer Classes Joy Lutheran Church, 1155 Joy Cir., Cambridge, is offering free computer classes taught

by Dave Larson from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 11 (Overview of Computers), Jan. 18 (Introduction to Windows), and Jan. 25 (Intermediate Windows). To register call 763-6895912.

Storybook Time & God’s Eye Enjoy Native American stories from noon to 1 p.m., then from 1 to 3 p.m., children can weave a God’s eye to take home.

The decorative designs are used on ceremonial shields by Native tribes of the southwestern United States. Call 320-532-3632 or millelacs@mnhe.org for more info.

Princess Meet and Greet Children are invited to meet 10 live princesses and two princes from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Grand Event Center, 2025 Rowland Rd., Mora. Each child will get an autographed princess photo to bring home as well as a Princess Swag Bag. For more information contact Kirstin Paquin at 320-224-8771.

JAN. 14 “History in This Spot” Individuals interested in the study and preservation of local history are encouraged to attend the next meeting of the Pine City Area History Association at 2 p.m. in the meeting room of the Pine city Public Library. For info call 320-322-9208 or email pcahistory@gmail. com.

JAN. 15 American Red Cross Blood Drive Donate blood from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 980 West 4th St., Rush City. For questions call 800-7332767 or go to www.redcrossblood.org for more information or to make an appointment.

JAN. 19 Free Movie Night Isanti Parks will host a free movie night showing “Mighty Ducks” with doors and concessions open at 6:30 p.m., movie at 7 p.m. at Isanti Community Center, 208 1/2 1st Ave, NW, Isanti.

For info call (763) 444-5512 or visit cityofisanti.us.

JAN. 20 Winter Frolic Shake off the winter blues by heading outdoors from noon to 4 p.m. at the North West Company Fur Post. Learn about winter travel during the fur trade and join in activities like throwing a curling stone, playing a round of Ojibwe snow snake, or snowshoeing along two miles of trails. Guests can also relax indoors, enjoy a cup of cocoa before a blazing fire and watch the outdoors festivities from the visitor center. Call 320-629-6356 or bwcfurpost@mnhs.org for more info.

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THURSDAY 12/28 Pine City Council: 8 a.m., Pine Government Ctr., Pine City TOPS-Take Off Pounds Sensibly: Pine City Library Community Room, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

WINDOW-Domestic abuse support group: 6 p.m., Journey North Church, Pine City NAMI peer support: Cambridge Medical Ctr., 6:30 p.m.

Teen AA/NA: 6:30 p.m., Teen Focus Center, Rush City Pine County LGBT: 7 p.m.

Hinckley City Hall Comm. Room SATURDAY 12/30 Model RR club: Askov, 10 a.m., Pine County History Museum SUNDAY 12/31 AA (Big Book study): Evangelical Free Church, 7 p.m.

MONDAY 1/1/18 Celebrate Recovery: Pine City, Journey North Church, 6 p.m.

AA: 7:30 p.m., Our Redeemer Lutheran Church TUESDAY 1/2 Pine County Board: 10 a.m., Pine Co. History Museum, Askov NA: 725 2nd Ave. SW, Pine City, 7 p.m., 320-279-3823, Carrie WEDNESDAY 1/3 Woodcarving club: Askov, 9 a.m. Pine Co. History Museum Al-Anon: 725 2nd Ave. SW, Pine City, 12 p.m., 612-387-6094, David Pine City Toastmasters: 7 p.m., Pine City VFW Hall AA: 8 p.m., Rock Creek Community Center

SENIOR DINING Jan. 1 - 5 Monday: Site Closed Tuesday: Breaded fried chicken, whipped potatoes w/gravy, vegetable medley, wheat bread, chocolate mousse.

Wednesday: Beef vegetable bake, crunchy romaine salad, wheat dinner roll, pie Thursday: Pork roast, red skinned potatoes w/gravy, peas, wheat bread, mandarin oranges Friday: Breaded fish on a bun w/lettuce and tomato, calico beans, cucumber salad, angel mocha dessert Cost is $4.00 for people over 60 and $7.50 for under 60. No preregistration needed, except for special events. Call the Pine City Senior Center at 320-629-3024 between 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The Pine City Pioneer does not guarantee publication of community events. Space limits the size and number of articles. Out & About deadline is 3 p.m. Monday. If your information must be published, consider placing an ad.

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MEETINGS

Combat Sex Trafficking

Bless the City Prayer Meeting

Peace Walk

DEC. 30

Birch St., lasts about half hour with positive messages. Group walks first and third Saturdays of every month (not when below zero). For info email wendybronson@yahoo.com.

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DECEMBER 28, 2017

Another year in which to...

I know I’ve said this before, but the week between Christmas and New Year is one of these funny little windows in the year, kind of a lens that makes the passage of time come into focus. Last week we were all obsessing over Christmas shopping, food preparations and party plans; come Dec. 26, we start thinking about what has passed in the previous year and what lies ahead.

We’re going to look back on 2017 in next week’s Pioneer, and it’ll be Editor’s good to go back through all that Soapbox happened in Pine City this past year. Time goes by awfully fast, and every time we do our year Mike in review issue I’m reminded of Gainor events I’d almost forgotten, and others that seem so long ago now it’s hard to believe they just happened this past year. Hopefully those stories will bring you back through all of your favorite memories of 2017.

And now 2018 is just around the corner, and that makes me think of one of my dad’s favorite phrases.

He’s a man of many sayings, my dad is. He has a quote for just about any event or situation. Sometimes it’s good advice that guides him through turbulent waters. Other times, I think, he’s just amused by the sounds of particular words.

Anyway, I picture him up early on a Saturday morning whipping up one of his signature omelettes, talking about all the yard projects he had planned for the weekend, and he would turn to us sleepy-eyed, unmotivated children and say, with an almost manic exuberance in his eyes: “Another day in which to excel!”

We heard those six words a lot when we were young. I’ve never asked Dad about where he got that phrase from, but a quick Google search makes me pretty sure it’s from his Navy days. A writer named Stew Smith said that back in his own military training an officer would ask them, “What day is it?” And the answer was, of course...

I also found a webpage (at www.usma1954.org) dedicated to the memory of Andre George Broumas, a West Point grad who was killed in Vietnam – and the first paragraph read like this: “ANOTHER DAY IN WHICH TO EXCEL!” Andre said this many times, to his men, to his contemporaries, even to his family. He said it at times, as many of us have, in a humorous way. Yet these words were more than a cliché, and their reiteration had a purpose. To Andre, they were a simple but precise way of expressing his philosophy of life; and although these words were spoken to others, they more often were self-directed.

That’s exactly how my dad uses the phrase – lighthearted, but not truly kidding. And really, as a reminder to himself that this moment, right now, is an opportunity to do something pretty great.

So with that in mind, I’d like to invite you to make 2018 a year in which to excel. I’m not talking about making a million dollars or changing the world (though if you have the chance do so, more power to you). You don’t have to do anything crazy or extraordinary. Just try to keep a smile on your face, and do the best you can with whatever life deals you.

And if you and I can manage to do that, just that, I’m betting 2018 will be pretty extraordinary after all.

Write letters to Santa Claus, but don’t write letters to the judge During the holiday season, little citizens write to Santa with a list of the presents they would like.

Adult citizens sometimes write the judge about a pending case and the result they would like. But they should not write the judge.

In this article I It’s in Your will discuss what judges are not.

Court Judges are not like township ofJudge Steve ficers, city councilmembers or Halsey county commissioners.

Judges do not weigh in on political issues unless there is a “controversy,” that is, a lawsuit, filed in court for them to hear and decide. Quite frequently family or friends of a person involved in a criminal or civil case, either as a party or a witness or victim, will write a letter directly to the court expressing their opinion and asking for a particular result. These letters are called “ex parte” communications, i.e., a communication to a judge not served and filed by an attorney for a party pursuant to the rules of court. Judges ethically cannot consider ex parte communications and cannot act upon them.

Frequently family members of a criminal defendant or victim will write a letter directly to a judge

PINE CITY

asking that the judge be lenient (or even harsh) at sentencing. Such letters must be disregarded under the rules of judicial ethics.

Sometimes people will stand up in the audience in court and want to be heard. Judges cannot be lobbied (by non-parties) like members of the legislative branches of government. Constitutionally-protected due process of law prevents such communications from being considered by a judge.

Judges are not social workers or probation officers. Sometimes parties without lawyers will come into court and say, “Judge, I need your help.” It is not the judge’s role to help parties in a lawsuit to reach a certain result. In fact, it is unethical for judges to assist unrepresented parties as a lawyer would do. This becomes a cause of considerable frustration for many people who cannot afford a lawyer.

The Rules of Court have been created and interpreted over many decades to provide due process to parties involved in lawsuits. The Rules of Court apply to parties whether or not they have a lawyer.

A gentleman in court became upset when I told him he needed to follow the court rules. He said, “Come on! Give me a break!” He wanted me to tell him he didn’t have to follow the law. While judges may allow unrepresented parties to commit minor failures to follow the rules’ timelines when there are no adverse consequences

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The Pioneer will Attempt to publish the news as fairly and impartially as possible. Editorial comments will be restricted to this page, or when positioned elsewhere, be clearly identified. All sides of controversial issues will be published within the capabilities of the newspaper.

Letters to the Editor will be 500 words or less. All letters are subject to editing for grammar and clarity and must contain the undersigned’s full name and their address.

As a rule, letter writers should live, work or have another connection to The Pine City Pioneer’s coverage area. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues

to the opponent, we can’t throw out the rule book entirely.

A judge is like a baseball umpire.

If the batter has a .210 batting average, the umpire cannot whisper to the batter, “The next pitch is gonna be a curve ball,” in order to help him raise his average. Judges are not in the business of “social engineering,” that is, curing the social ills of society through our decisions. Judges decide individual cases of individual people, businesses, and governmental entities based on the individual facts and the applicable law.

Judges aren’t police officers. In the past the media has been critical of judges when a criminal defendant is released on what is perceived to be “low” bail and then commits another crime or flees the state. Judges do not initiate action against such defendants.

Prosecutors make motions to the court for arrest warrants for such defendants and when the warrant is issued they have it.

Prosecutors are a part of the executive branch; judges are not.

Submitted by Judge Steve Halsey, Wright County District Court, chambered in Buffalo.

Judge Halsey is the host of “The District Court Show” on local cable TV public access channels throughout the Tenth Judicial District. Excerpts can be viewed at WWW.QCTV.org.

Go to Community and click “The District Court Show.”

are not guaranteed publication.

Staff reserves the right to refrain from printing a letter. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

Letters may be emailed to: editor@pinecitymn.com no later than 5 p.m.

Monday the week of publication.

The Pioneer welcomes readers’ suggestions for news stories as well as their comments on stories that have been printed.

News releases should be typed and include appropriate contact information. They will be printed as space permits in the first issue possible. There are no guarantees that news releases will run.

OPINION

DECEMBER 28, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Don’t dial ‘1’ to stop bogus calls

It can happen like this: “Ted” answers his phone. A pre-recorded voice instructs him to press “1” to stop future calls or “2” to speak with a live person. Ted presses “1” because he wants the calls to stop.

“Beth” receives a similar call. She presses “2”, intending to tell the caller to nson calling.

Attorney stop In both cases, the call immediately disGeneral connects.

Neither “Ted” or “Beth” ever Lori speak with a live perSwanson son.

Pressing one of these numbers may seem harmless, but doing so may lead to an increase in calls. Here’s why: Scam artists often use dialing machines to place calls using a number generator. The automated dialer does not know when it dials a number

whether or not that specific phone number is active. Answering such a call and then pressing “1” or “2” in response indicates that the number is valid and that someone has picked up the call. The scammer then may call again, knowing there is a good chance the call will be answered, in an effort to commit a financial scam. Or, the scammer may place your number on a list of “live” phone numbers he sells to other scammers.

If you get unwanted calls, the most effective approach is to simply hang up without speaking. Do not press any buttons, which just confirms that your number is active.

Unfortunately, given the ease with which such calls can be placed with modern technology, there is no quick or easy way to end these types of calls.

These calls are almost always made by people located outside Minnesota, and often outside the United States. People should report these calls to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which has the authority to enforce laws re-

Ask a Trooper

BY SGT. NEIL DICKENSON MINNESOTA STATE PATROL

My father found a wallet at a big retail store while on Q: vacation and was concerned about handing it off to the staff, instead deciding to contact the owner directly. He was eventually pulled over by local PD, with the wallet in hand, and was told he could be brought up on theft charges. What should he have done? His intent, clearly, was to ensure that the staff at the store weren’t going to pocket any cash from the wallet, but that’s not how police perceived it.

There are two other options that could have been done A: besides turning the wallet into the store staff. He could have turned it over to a supervisor at the store where it was found. The other option is to report it to the local police or sheriff’s department where it was found.

What could have happened in this situation is that the wal-

Lions fruit delivery in the bag

garding unwanted calls and work with international law enforcement authorities to curb financial scams. You may contact the FTC as follows: Federal Trade Commission Consumer Response Center 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20580 (877) 382-4357 TTY: (866) 653-4261 Website: www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov For more information about these and other scams, you may contact the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office at: Office of Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 1400 St. Paul, MN 55101 (651) 296-3353 (Twin Cities Calling Area) (800) 657-3787 (Outside the Twin Cities) TTY: (651) 297-7206 or (800) 366-4812 Website: www.ag.state.mn.us

To the Editor: Members of the Pine City Lions Club did a great job of packing and delivering the 500-plus bags of fresh fruit to the many senior citizens in the city limits of Pine City on Saturday, Dec. 9. It was a monumental task done well.

We have done this project for years now to pay tribute to the senior citizens who have done so much for our community.

However, seniors are always on the move, especially this time of year. So all in all, I am pleased that we were able to serve so many of our Pine City seniors last Saturday.

Seniors, if we missed you, we apologize, but we really do try to get to everyone.

Bruce Nelson, president Pine City Lions Club

More concerned every day

To the Editor: I once predicted that this president would put America back a hundred years.

The good people of Minnesota are going to be really hurting with this new so-called tax plan.

How much more greedy can these ultra-conservative GOP-ers become? They certainly are proving that GOP means “Greed Over People.”

We are also in big trouble with this president by his appointment of Scott Pruitt as head of the Environmental Protection Agency.

I am getting more concerned every day, hoping and praying that even our great-grandchildren will survive. Our kids and grandkids will have to endure the swamp Trump has put this great country in.

America was really great before he came along. Very sorry to say that the future is looking more bleak everyday.

let may have been stolen and discarded where your father found it, and it was considered stolen property. By explaining how and where the wallet was found would clear him as a suspect of possessing stolen property. If further evidence is needed, law enforcement could obtain video footage from the store and that would support his statement.

We have had wallets, purses and property that were found on state highways or freeways that were turned into a trooper or an MSP office staff employee. We would go through the wallet or purse in an attempt to find some form of identification that can be used to contact that person.

If you ever lose a wallet or purse that contains credit cards and a driver’s license, contact your credit card companies and report it missing. Contact your state’s department of vehicle services and report that your driver’s license is missing and a duplicate license can be obtained. If the wallet or purse is stolen, report it to your local law enforcement agency where a report will be generated, and the items can be returned to you if found.

Send questions to Sgt. Neil Dickenson – Minnesota State Patrol at 1131 Mesaba Ave, Duluth, MN 55811 or email neil. dickenson@state.mn.us.

Charlie Rike Pine City

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PINE CITY PIONEER

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DECEMBER 28, 2017

Think before you drink

DRI V E SO BE R OR GE T P U L LE D O VER

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There’s So Much to Celebrate‌ Your health is important. Your friends and family are precious. Your reputation is valuable.

Your freedom is priceless. Life is irreplaceable.

When you decide to drink and drive, you risk it all.

Respect yourself and others by committing to a sober ride home this Holiday Season.

The Choice Is Yours.

1. Be a designated driver.

2. Make plans to have a designated driver.

3. Reserve a ride home with a car service.

4. Call a taxi.

5. Make overnight plans.

6. Attend an alcohol-free celebration.

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YEARS AGO

DECEMBER 28, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

7

www.pinecitymn.com

Christmas light contest a big hit in 1967

BY CAROL AASER NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

10 Years Ago, 2007 The Pine County 4-H knows the power of cheese. The groups just wrapped up their 25th annual cheese fundraiser.

On Saturday, Dec. 8, over $23,000 worth of cheese was delivered from Burnett Dairy in Alpha, Wisconsin. This year’s top sellers were Joe Wolf, Leigha Lange and the Fischer family. The top-selling clubs were Ambitious Pines, Sunnyside and Rock Creek Ramblers.

Communities Investing in Families (CIF) staff and board members took time to thank Richard “Dick” Williams for 10 years of service on the organization’s Board of Trustees on Dec. 7. Williams has been an integral part of the organization since it began as a task force addressing welfare changes in the mid-1990s.

The 20th annual Hollidazzle fourth, fifth and sixth grade volleyball tournament was Thursday, Dec. 20, in the Pine City Elementary auditorium/gymnasium. Winning team for the fourth grade was Olson’s Otters with team members Tayah Schumann, Peyton DeLozier, Raeanna Shermer, Zach Ulrick, Noah Adams and Alec Zamorano. Winning team for the fifth grade was Lorsung’s Leopards with team members Brian Kapaun, Mitchell Hansmann, Travis LeMAy, Sara Larson, Nikki Schultz and Emma Maxwell. Winning team for sixth grade was Johnson’s Jelly Beans with team members Garrett Shelton, Tony Feela, Jonathan Siebenaler, Ashlee Martini, Alexis Cummings and Kelsey Fulweiler.

25 Years Ago, 1992

Mary Ann and Mike Johnson’s daughter, Molly, was chosen as the American Swedish Institute’s 1992 Lucia. She was among eight finalists who were interviewed on their involvement in the community and their interest in Swedish culture. Johnson is a sophomore at Mankato State University and plans to study in Sweden next summer.

Matthew Rootkie, Pine City, was named to the President’s Achievement List for fall quarter at Alexan-

THE PIONEER

Holidazzle volleyball heats up in 2007 Students worked off the holiday jitters and checked out some intense competition during the 20th annual Holidazzle Volleyball Tournament on Dec. 20 at Pine City Elementary School. The competition was friendly, and teams of students in grades fourth, fifth and sixth compete with teams from their own grade level.

dria Technical College. Rootkie, son of Cary and Janet Rootkie, is enrolled in the carpentry program at Alexandria.

50 Years Ago, 1967 Pine City residents went all out in the Christmas Lighting Contest sponsored by the Commercial Club. Cliff Dorow won first place and Robert Leibel second in the overall home lighting competition. First place winner in the scenery and lighting division was Charles Zemek, and second place went to Richard Thieman. Honorable mention was given to the homes of Roy Teich, Ernie Teich and Dr. L. W. Onken. First place winners received $15 cash and second place $10 cash. The judges expressed their pleasure in the number of people who helped give Pine City a Christmas atmosphere.

Postmaster Wilcox announced that effective Jan. 7, new postal rates would

We’re more than just print...

VISIT OUR WEB SITE WWW.PINECITYMN.COM Get up-to-date information on local events and find out what’s going in your area.

CCome to t an

OPEN HOUSE

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DONNA HEATH on her

retirement as a Pioneer reporter!

Friday, Dec. 29 1:30-4 p.m.

be six cents for a letter to any of the 50 states, to U.S territories or possessions, to Canada or Mexico, or to an American serviceman anywhere in the world.

75 Years Ago, 1942 County Treasurer Fran Poferl retired after 30 years of service. During his term of office he was elected twice as president of the county treasurer’s association, in 1920 and again in 1933.

A railroad car with coal to be delivered to the Eastern Minnesota Power Company steam plant here ran through the barricade at the end of the track past the steam plant on Saturday forenoon and slid down the side of the bank. Fifty-five tons of coal were dumped. Most of it was retrieved the next day using a clam shovel.

World War II was on, and consumers were gradually becoming accustomed to rationing of many items. The Pioneer published a weekly reminder on

rationing.

Important dates on ration calendars included Jan. 1, when a five-cent Victory Tax goes into effect. The tax would be deducted from paychecks.

110 Years Ago, 1907

At 7 p.m. New Year’s evening at the residence of Rev. Father Koerner, the words were spoken that bound together for life two of Pine City’s most esteemed young people, Herman Borchers, eldest son of Mrs. Herman Borchers, and Miss Anna Kothera, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kothera.

Miss Ada Enos and Edward Gray were married at Rock Creek Dec. 31.

Mrs. A. Pennington entertained a number of ladies Dec. 28 in honor of the birthday of her mother, Mrs. L. W. Eldred.

Early Deadline Notice

320-629-6771

Due to the holidays, deadlines are as follows: For the Kanabec County Times and the Pine City Pioneer Dec. 28 issue will be Dec. 22 at noon & the Jan. 4 issue will be Dec. 29 at noon.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

8

PINE CITY PIONEER www.pinecitymn.com

DECEMBER 28, 2017

NEWSLINE Library hosts computer help sessions

Need help setting up an email account, creating a resume, using Microsoft Word, navigating the Internet or another computer task? The Rush City Public Library is hosting individual computer assistance sessions for adults between the hours of 1 and 4 p.m. on most Tuesdays and Thursdays. Meet one-onone for up to an hour at a time with library volunteer Donna M. Also, learn about the many databases available to library users. Call 320-358-3948 or drop by the Rush City Library to schedule a date and time.

Auditions coming for ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’

Check in with older adults

As people gather for the holidays, family and friends often get a fresh look at how well older people in their lives are doing. Minnesota has several resources to help families address issues that may be noticed.

Among helpful resources are: • Senior LinkAge Line, at 1-800-333-2433 and by chat at www.seniorlinkageline.com, is the Minnesota Board on Aging’s free statewide information and assistance service. The Senior LinkAge Line is part of a network that also includes Disability Hub MN at 1-866-3332466 and disabilityhubmn.com,

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Kevin Hofstad, managing partner at the firm of Ledin, Hofstad, Troth & Fleming, has recently been elected to the East Central Regional Development Commission (ECRDC) Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Board of Directors representing Pine County. The ECRDC RLF provides gap financing to small businesses in Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs & Pine Counties. The ECRDC is funded through a local tax levy and planning / program grants and contracts from state and federal agencies and foundations.

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As part of a 25+ year holiday tradition, each of SPIRE Credit Union’s 17 branches recently hosted its Annual Toy Drive, collecting nearly 500 toys for local families.

A total of 15 different local organizations throughout the SPIRE service area benefited from their efforts. SPIRE Pine City employee, Brenda Nelson, is pictured here with Becky Foss from Pine County Health and Human Services.

B U SI NE

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

PHOTO PROVIDED

Pine City’s SPIRE donates toys

N

S

AN

D

SSIO

Experienced and beginner gardeners will all enjoy the 16th Annual Pine County Master Gardener Horticulture Day on Saturday, March 24. The day begins with registration, coffee and exhibits at 8 a.m. and runs to 2 p.m. at the Pine City High School.

“Minnesota Forests are Changing with the Climate” will be the keynote presentation by Lee Frelich, Researcher and Director of the University of Minnesota Center for Forest Ecology and Institute of the Environment.

There will be two rounds of breakout sessions: • “Growing Healthy Vegetables” by Michelle Grabowski, University of Minnesota Extension Plant Pathologist • “Beyond Basics: How to Get the Most from Your Perennial Garden” by Kate Netwal, U of M Extension Master Gardener, Hennepin County • “Pruning Trees and Shrubs” by Donna Tatting, U of M Extension Master Gardener, Chisago County •“Growing Blueberries in East Central Minnesota” by Diane Patras, U of M Extension Master Gardener, Chisago County Master Gardener The registration fee includes the educational sessions, morning refreshments, lunch, handouts, door prizes and time to visit with exhibitors featuring garden items, plants and bulbs.

the Veterans Linkage Line at 1-888-LinkVet and www.MinnesotaHelp.info.

“Senior LinkAge Line can help older Minnesotans find supports to remain healthy and safe at home,” said Kari Benson, executive director of the Minnesota Board on Aging. “Aging experts there can explain prescription drug coverage and health care options and point to transportation services, chore help, meal services, housing options, legal services and more.”

• Resources for family caregivers, who provide more than 90 percent of the long-term care needed by older Minnesotans, are available on the Minnesota Board on Aging website, mnaging.net. The Caregiver Resource Guide posted on the site includes checklists to plan for caregiving and for self-care for caregivers.

• The Own Your Future website, mn.gov/ownyourfuture, provides adults of all ages help to plan for the care and household help most will need in their later years. The website includes the “Own Your Future: Long-term Care Planning Guide.” The Department of Human Services and the Board on Aging lead the Own Your Future initiative.

• The Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center, administered by the Department of Human Services, has a toll-free number at 1-844-880-1574 where people can go 24/7 to report possible abuse, neglect or financial exploitation of a loved one.

S

O

FE

Sign up now for Pine County Horticulture Day

Bring your gardening questions for the “Ask a Master Gardener” table and visit with experienced Pine County Master Gardeners.

Register by March 20 to save money and be entered in a Grand Prize Drawing. Print a Horticulture Day Registration form from the Pine County Extension office home page at www.extension.umn.edu/ county/pine and click onto “Pine County Horticulture Day”. Or, request a form by calling 1-800-657-3813 Ext. #4 or call 1-320-591-1651. Forms are also available from the Extension office at the Pine County Courthouse at 635 Northridge Dr. in Pine City, and at the Flower Box in Pine City; Beaver Meadows Garden Center south of Hinckley; Brown’s Greens & Beans in Sandstone and Village Floral in Grantsburg, Wisconsin.

AL

PR

Auditions are quickly coming up for the next Heritage Players production, “Arsenic and Old Lace,” by Joseph Kesserling, directed by Laura Michels. Auditions will be held on Feb. 25 and 27 from 6-8 p.m.in the Pine City High School Fine Arts Auditorium, 1400 Main St. S., Pine City, MN. Performance dates are April 12-15. All performances will be held at the Pine City High School Auditorium.

The cast will consist of people aged 18+ who are no longer in high school. Those auditioning come prepared with a one-minute comedic monologue. For questions, contact Laura Michels at heritageplayers@ gmail.com.

Visit pinecityheritageplayers. com/2017/12/09/auditions-arsenic-old-lace/ for a link to

character descriptions.

Matthew M. Sievers, D.D.D., M.S. Cambridge and Pine City

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Weather Date High Low Precip./Snow 12/18 37° 22° 0"/0" 12/19 34° 15° 0/0" 12/20 17° 13° 0.09/0" 12/21 22° 15° 0.02"/0" 12/22 21° 14° 0.03"/0.4" 12/23 20° 7° 0.02/0" 12/24 22° -1° 0.02"/0"

DECEMBER 28, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

PINE CITY PIONEER

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PHOTO PROVIDED

As a gunpowder haze settled over the battlefield, thousands of uniformed reenactors marched towards the enemy on the Waterloo battlefield – 200 years after the original epic conflict took place – and Pine City’s Patrick Schifferdecker was among them.

Local historian takes part in massive reenactment of Waterloo

BY AMY DOEUN NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

Patrick Schifferdecker’s love of history goes way back, “I like to say that my love of history predates literacy,” he said with a laugh.

Schifferdecker explained that he has brothers that are much older than him and one of the brothers brought home a college history textbook that was, “copiously illustrated.” He said that one of the most memorable pictures was of the battle of Waterloo.

The Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815, was one of the most important in European history. It involved nearly 200,000 soldiers, and the decisive end to the fierce and bloody conflict soon led to the fall of the Napoleon Bonaparte, the self-crowned emperor of France.

In June 2015, Schifferdecker and his wife, Lisa Krahn, were able to attend a massive reenactment of the battle in Waterloo, Belgium. Schifferdecker is part of the 95th Rifleman’s Unit. This was an actual unit that was at both the Battle of New Orleans and the Battle of Waterloo.

The year 2015 marked the bicentennial of both battles.

On Tuesday, Dec. 12 Schifferdecker spoke about his experiences at the Pine City Library. He shared that his unit is made up of “Americans, Brits and Australians. . .there were 6,000 reenactors which is quite large. Normally on an off year if there were 100 reenactors that was a lot.”

Schifferdecker and his other reenactors brought their own guns across the

ocean, “so we had to get firearms permits for all the countries we visited.”

The group had 100 men. Since a full company is 60 men so they had close to two full companies at the reenactment and in order to organize all those people plans began early, about two years before the reenactment.

Schifferdecker and the other men of the 95th “did what soldiers normally do – we appropriated some billeting [lodging] for ourselves. It happened to be a 15th century chateau, and our unit stayed there exclusively.”

Over 100,000 people attended each day of the two day reenactment.

“It was a grand time--quite the spectacle,” Schifferdecker said. “It is hard to really capture the essence of the reenactment. It was overwhelming in scope. We were in a field with waist high wheat.

The first thing we saw of the battle is bayonets coming up against the wheat.”

Schifferdecker was in the army for a few short years.

“When I got out I didn’t want to march anymore,” he said.

At first he was drawn more towards non-military reenacting.

“Where I went to college the men’s choir was ‘La Voyageurs’, we sang French Canadian songs and dressed in costume,” he explained. Much of his reenacting has centered around this time.

For the past 29 years he has been the site manager at the North West Company Fur Post in Pine City.

Schifferdecker pointed out that the centennial of the battle of Waterloo was not celebrated because World War I was

PHOTO PROVIDED

Lisa Krahn and husband Patrick Schifferdecker traveled to Belgium, where Schifferdecker helped to re-create a key moment in military history and western civilization.

being fought. However “reenacting goes way back.” Schifferdecker shared that he was researching early local reenacting and found that shortly after the World War I there was a reenactment by some of the returning soldiers at the Pine County Fair.

He said that his favorite thing about

Fire deaths spike in Minnesota MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Fifty-six people have died in fires in Minnesota so far this year, a 30 percent increase over last year’s total of 43. There were 42 fire deaths at this time last year.

The holiday season is historically a dangerous time for fires. The three leading causes of residential fires in Minnesota are all holiday staples: cooking, heating and

open flames. The leading cause of fatal fires in Minnesota is careless smoking.

How Minnesotans can stay safe: • Stay in the kitchen while cooking.

• Keep items like towels and aprons three feet from the stove.

• Set a timer when using the oven.

• Alternative heat sources like space heaters can provide extra warmth, but they can

also be dangerous.

• Never leave a space heater unattended.

• Plug space heaters directly into outlets, not extension cords.

• Keep flammable items three feet from the heater.

• Use flameless candles for your holiday decorations.

• If you use real candles, do not leave them unattended.

• Keep flammable items away from candles.

• Smoke outside.

• Properly extinguish cigarettes in a solid container filled with sand or water.

• Do not smoke while on or near medical oxygen.

• Do not smoke while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.

Smoke alarms save lives — but only if they work. Test your alarms before your holiday gatherings.

the work he does is to teach people about history in a fun and exciting way.

We have all probably had bad experiences in school where we did not learn to love history,” he said. “I know some fabulous teachers, but it is different to see it where it happened.”

THANK YOU We would like to thank everyone who helped search for Clay, the pilot who found him, Froggy’s Bar & Grill for providing the food and place to have his celebration of life, Tuck for the music, Kelly for driving Clay’s truck with his family to the chapel and Froggy’s , all the semi drivers, motorcycle riders and the many vehicles who escorted him to his final journey. For the cross, mugs, candles, pillows and stickers made in his honor. Thank you to all for the kindness expressed by everyone during this difficult time.

The family of Clay Drevecky

10

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

DECEMBER 28, 2017

Dragon girls blast Braham to go 7-0 Boys

BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

The Dragons girls basketball team will enter the holiday break with an undefeated record. After two more wins this past week, the 7-0 Dragons are looking strong. Pine City defeated a pair of Bombers squads in convincing fashion. In the initial round of QRF rankings that came out on Dec. 25, the Dragons were an impressive #22 in Class AA out of 132 teams.

PINE CITY 79, BARNUM 41 The Dragons fell behind 5-0 in the first two minutes of this contest, only to outscore the Bombers 60-20 for the rest of the first half. Pine City held a decisive 60-25 lead at halftime and had already salted the game away.

“We don’t keep records on that stat,” said Dragons Coach Ted Hasz, “but 60 points in a half has to be right up there for the most points scored in a half in Dragon girls basketball history. It was due to our great defense and intensity. Once we scored our first bucket, the points came in bunches. We did a nice job of holding their high-powered offense down and using our defense to create offense.”

The Dragons coasted a bit in the second half, and easily cruised to victory.

In another display of the team’s depth and talent, 10 Dragons scored and four were in double figures. Lily Wilson led the way with 15 points while also posting six assists. Alison Brown had 14 points and six rebounds while Alaina Steele finished with 13 points. Ellie Hasz had 11 points, four assists, and six steals.

“It was a great way to start the week,” added Hasz. “Barnum has some good players that gave us some new challenges, and the kids passed the test.”

The game was played on

beat Blake

Tuesday, Dec. 19 in Barnum. Two nights later the Dragons would win their fourth Great River Conference game of the season when they beat another Bombers team at home.

PINE CITY 66, BRAHAM 44 The Dragons stayed undefeated with a solid victory over rival Braham.

While the Bombers may not have the pedigree of previous years, they entered having won two of their last three games and weren’t going to give any ground without a fight. In the end, the Dragons depth was too much for Braham to handle as the home team had late runs in the first and second half to salt the game away.

“Braham threw some new challenges at us by attacking us a little different and they got us in some foul trouble,” said Hasz.

“We were happy with the way the kids were able to handle the adversity and keep their composure.”

Once again, the Dragons had 10 players score. Brown and Ellie Hasz were tops in points with 15 apiece, while Wilson had 14. Brown continued to show tremendous effort inside with an additional nine rebounds and four blocks.

“The kids are excited about our good start to the season,” said Hasz, adding, “but they know we need to keep getting better. We play in the toughest section in (Class) AA with about six teams in the top 20 in the state. If we want a chance to be there at the end we need to keep making great progress.”

Pine City will now shift their focus to a holiday tournament at St. Cloud Tech where the team will face a pair of Class AAA teams in Saulk Rapids-Rice and Rocori on Dec. 27-28.

BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

LANCE FURBER | THE PIONEER

Alison Brown (above) scored 15 points against Braham on the Dragons home court.

LANCE FURBER | THE PIONEER

Lily Wilson (left) drives to the basket while center Chloe Alleman boxes out defenders.

Where/When: In Hopkins on Friday, Dec. 22 What happened: Pine City’s boys basketball team improved to 5-1 on the season with a Friday night win at a private school right before the holiday break.

The Dragons were led in the game by senior Clay Logan, who shot 10-12 from the floor for a game-high 26 points, and was the only player on the team in double digits.

Logan continues to impress as one of the premier players in the Great River Conference and the Dragons top weapon.

The squad repeatedly focused on getting the ball to senior captain Jake Rademacher in the high post and he responded with a teamhigh five assists to go along with six points.

Jake Adams was solid with 3-7 shooting for eight points, two steals, and two charges taken.

What it means: Despite looking out of sorts on offense at times, the Dragons have five wins through six games. Pine City was ranked #40 out of 125 teams in the initial Class AA QRF rankings.

Up next: A pair of Class AAA opponents await the Dragons over the holiday break. Pine City will face Duluth Denfeld and Cloquet at Cloquet on Dec. 27-28

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Dragons skate past Big Lake/Becker, fall to Vikings Pine City Area hockey squad now 7-4

BY JESSE LOGAN SPORTS@PINECITYMN.COM

Although the Pine City Area boys hockey team saw their six-game winning streak come to an end this past week, the squad finished the week on a high note. The Dragons have won seven of their past eight games and have a 7-4 record as they head into an invitation-only holiday tournament. Pine City Area is ranked #28 out of 81 teams in the initial Class A rankings.

NORTH BRANCH 3, PINE CITY AREA 2 (OT) The Dragons fell on the home ice on Tuesday, Dec. 19, losing to the Vikings in overtime. To make matters worse for the program, the JV was also handed a bitter defeat, although neither team played poorly. All three North Branch goals were on the power play.

“Last night stings,” admitted Dragons Head Coach Grant Nicoll the following day. “Both the JV and varsity teams get a tally in the loss column even though both teams outplayed their opponents. In the varsity game, the boys were prepared both mentally and physically. We had one of our best practices of the year the day before the game. The boys were in the zone leading up to the game, and everything was building up for a great game.”

After a back-and-forth first period that saw North Branch take a 1-0 lead on a power play goal, the Dragons owned the second.

Scoring a pair of goals to put his team ahead 2-1 was Jordan Stich, “The second was pure domination by the boys,” recalled Nicoll. “We beat them in every aspect of the game, score, shots, physical play, races, and the list goes on and on. We actually scored three goals in the second, but one was eventually waived off after the refs listened to the opposition.”

The Vikings third period goal looked to be very similar to the goal the Dragons had waived off in the second. After another somewhat questionable call in overtime, North Branch netted their third power play goal and escaped with a win. Alex Laven stopped 22 shots in the game.

“I will not totally blame the referees as we had 45 shots on net and only scored two goals,” said Nicoll. “We need to put the puck away. On the other hand, I feel bad for these boys as they prepared and worked their tails off only to be beat on some questionable calls.”

Two nights later, the Dragons would erase the memory of a stinging defeat and get back on the right track.

JOHN OLSON | THE PIONEER

(above) Jan Zahradka and teammates celebrated after Zahradka scored a goal in the final minutes of the third period, giving the Dragons the 4-3 lead they would hold for the rest of the game.

PINE CITY AREA 4, BECKER/BIG LAKE 3 To win this home game, the Dragons overcame a 3-2 deficit with a pair of goals in the third. Tallying goals on the night for Pine City Area were Jonah Bergstrom, Ethan White, Luke Fabini, and Jan Zahradka.

“As a coaching staff,” said Nicoll, “ we were a little worried about how this game would go. Coming off an emotional loss on Tuesday and playing a team that on paper we should beat is never an easy task. Tonight proved that. We received goals in the third from unusual ways. The game tying goal was from a defensemen Luke Fabini (first career varsity goal), and the game winner was shorthanded off of the stick of Jan, our foreign exchange student. It was far from pretty, but the boys found a way to get it done and get that ‘W’.”

Logan Belau tallied eight saves on 11 shots faced.

The Dragons will now play over the holiday break at the Schwan Cup, an invitation-only tournament at the Blaine Sports Center.

LANCE FURBER | THE PIONEER

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PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 28, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

Commissioners approve mini truck ordinance, create Pine County zoning board

BY AILENE CROUP NEWS@PINECITYMN.COM

Pine County Board has been working since July to put a mini truck ordinance in place.

At last week’s regular meeting. following several delays to gather more information and public input, the board reconvened the public hearing which began in October concerning regulating and permitting mini trucks on county roads.

Sheriff Jeff Nelson told commissioners that having such an ordinance creates some issues for his office. Deputies could stop any mini truck prior to the ordinance and now they will have to find a permit decal. Equipment will have to meet the ordinance requirements and deputies will have to educate themselves on those requirements.

“I can’t get behind this,” said Chairman Matt Ludwig, who is a retired Pine County investigator.

Nelson said the administration part of the licensing was one of his concerns.

County Attorney Reese Fredrickson redesigned the ordinance to accommodate concerns the sheriff voiced perviously. One of those concerns was the sheriff’s office would be required to purchase equipment to create decals with a license number to correspond with the mini truck permit.

The revised ordinance makes purchase and application of license/permit numbers the applicant’s responsibility.

It also lists equipment necessary on the mini truck for legal operation on county roads.

A state issued driver’s license and proof of insurance are also required.

Anyone who violates the ordinance will

be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable with fines and prison time.

Commissioner Steve Hallan said he didn’t think there were a lot of mini trucks in the county. He called them a “cheap alternative” to a side-by-side. In a few years there may not be any left to regulate.

“Just for clarification,” said Administrator David Minke, “This ordinance only applies to county roads.”

The board voted 5-0 to approve the ordinance.

ZONING BOARD ORDINANCE A second public hearing was held prior to the county board meeting last week concerning the proposal to combine the Planning Commission with the Board of Adjustment.

County Assessor/Solid Waste and Zoning Administrator Kelly Schroeder

said combining the two committees will bring the total number of members on the board from 10 down to seven.

The ordinance states the two combined boards will be known as the Zoning Board and members will be appointed from each commissioner’s district from a list submitted by them. Two additional at-large members will be appointed to complete the seven-member board.

Commissioner Josh Mohr asked what would happen if the combination didn’t “work out.”

Schroeder said the board could change the ordinance through the process of notifying residents and holding a public hearing.

The board voted unanimously to approve the creation of the Zoning Board through the combination of the Planning Commission with the Board of Adjustment.

Programs help make abandoned manure pits safer

BY TERRY SALMELA NEWS@MORAMINN.COM

“With grandkids running around here, abandoned manure pits can be a death trap,” said Ogilvie farmer Brian Besser.

Besser along with his son, Blaine, own adjoining farms south of Ogilvie. They each had an abandoned manure pit that they wanted to fill in and were considering doing it on their own and paying for it out of their own pockets. That is when they asked for help from Rick Martens, owner of Martens Manurigation pumping business. Martens suggested that they contact the Natural Resources and Conservation Service and the Soil and Water Conservation District office staff in Mora to see if there was funding available that would cover some of the costs of cleaning and closing up their pits. One phone call, a year of planning, design and working with NRCS and SWCD staff in Kanabec County resulted in their two manure pits being filled to NRCS standards and 75 percent of the costs being paid for with federal funding.

Financial, technical and paperwork assistance is available for farmers and landowners who want to properly fillin abandoned manure pits according to Shannon Rasinski, NRCS district conservationist for Kanabec County. Some added state funding is only available through the end of June.

This is welcome news to farmers who have quit milking cows or raising hogs in recent years and who have abandoned their liquid manure pits. NRCS funding pays flat rates based on the pit size, and it is available to farmers who follow a proper abandonment, closure and clean-up process with the help of the NRCS and SWCD staff. An additional Minnesota Department of Agriculture low interest loan currently for 10 years at three-percent interest can be applied for through the SWCD. With these two sources of funding, up to 75 percent of the costs may be covered.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency requires that within one year of ceasing operation, farmers must remove all manure and land apply the material at agronomic rates. The purpose of proper manure pit abandonment is to protect ground and surface water, safeguard public health from potential gases, such as hydrogen sulfide and to remove a drowning hazard according to Rasinski.

Also, if a farmer wants to sell the farm in the future, the pit will have to be refilled anyway or it can be a liability to the new owner. The closure has to be permanent.

“Many pits have lived beyond their design life,” said Rasinski. “We may have the original design on file at the NRCS office. We will inspect the site, do a closure design, calculate quantities

KANABEC COUNTY NRCS AND SWCD | SUBMITTED

Blaine Besser thought his manure pit cleanup project would take years to finish. It’s now complete, with minimal cost to Besser.

and cost estimates. This all needs to be done before any work is started.” Pit closure project applications are then put into a pool. Each project goes through a National Environmental Protection Act assessment of its impact on impaired waters and threatened and endangered species.

Livestock practice projects are given a high priority. The goal is to protect surface waters from runoff and ground waters from leaching. The closure has to comply with all federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations including national pollution discharge elimination system requirements.

Once that is completed, the excess water and solids in the pit must be removed. Then, the contaminated soil on the sides and bottom of the pit have to be removed and spread on cropland. Once the pit is cleaned, both ends of the underground pipe running from the barn to the pit and the pump must be cemented to permanently seal them to prevent any water from getting in. After that is completed and the pit is inspected to meet NRCS standards, it can be filled.

Sometimes the fill can come from soil on site like it did with Brian’s pit when he got DNR permission to use a bank of soil between his farmstead and the river.

In other situations, the fill may have to be hauled in as it did for Blaine’s pit. In his case, a local construction company brought in fill at no cost from another construction site that had to have it removed. The final steps are for the sites to be covered, graded and sloped to prevent water accumulation and then seeded.

Two other area farmers who have taken advantage of the NRCS and SWCD

manure pit closure programs are Paul Kent Jr., Bill and Lucas Olen who farm east of Mora. Kent had his pit filled in last year as well. He had used it for 30 years for his 80-cow dairy herd and said it was an ideal way to handle manure.

However, he does not miss hauling manure for two and one-half days, without sleep, to get it incorporated into the soil before winter arrived. He also said that another critical timing issue with manure pits is in the spring when there is a narrow window of opportunity to haul manure between the ground thawing and corn planting. He has not milked cows for five years and has pumped six to eight feet of water out of his pit each year for several years. With a 3-year old grandson around who could get into it, he decided to fill it in when he heard that his neighbors Bill and Lucas Olen had filled in their pit.

Olens had sold their cows in 2015 and filled in their pit in 2016 with the help of federal and state cost-sharing. Lucas is an experienced heavy equipment operator so he was able to do the work himself.

Olen said that initially they received a 15-year loan to install the pit and they used it for 33 years. He said that the reason pits were approved for manure storage was to be able to contain the manure which is considered a hazardous waste.

Both Kent and Olen worked with NRCS and SWCD to complete the paperwork and followed what they described as fairly stiff criteria which they found was easy enough to follow. They isolated the topsoil, removed the liquids, contaminated side and bottom soils while being monitored the whole time. They

were complimented by the staff on how good of a job that they did. Olen said, “It worked out really well,” Kent added, “Overall, it was a very favorable experience and federal and state funding paid for 75 percent of it. If funding is available, use it.”

Blaine Besser summed up his experience with the process when he said, “I thought it was going to take years to finish it if I paid for it out of my own pocket. We stuck with the process and we got it done with about 90 percent of the cost paid for. It actually turned out really nice.” His father Brian added, “It was pretty simple. It was just a matter of meeting with NRCS a few times.”

Bessers now plant row crops over both of their old pit sites. “It’s now a nice landscaped slope that the kids slide on in the winter. It changed an unsightly weed and brush covered site and made it nice looking. It was worthwhile to work with NRCS and SWCD,” he concluded.

Farmers with questions on a manure pit that is no longer used are encouraged to stop by the Kanabec County NRCS and SWCD office at 2008 Mahogany St., Mora. It is located on the east side of Mora between the East Central Livestock Auction and the East Central Veterinarian Clinic. NRCS and SWCD are voluntary based and not regulatory organizations. Farmers have to request help from them. The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Terry Salmela is a contributing writer for the Kanabec County Times and retired University of Minnesota Extension Educator.

DECEMBER 28, 2017 www.pinecitymn.com

PINE CITY PIONEER

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FRIENDSHIP: Bonds of faith and friendship bring Pine City, Guatemala together FROM PAGE 1

knowing the language.

“I went to summer school there in 1987,” explained Cutu, “and then continued on in high school there for three years until 1990. It was hard because I didn’t know English, but Mom (Marge) Nelson went to the school and told the principal ‘she is from Guatemala, she doesn’t speak English, so be patient with her’.”

Marge Nelson, affectionately known as ‘Mamaw’ by her granddaughter, Elizabeth Logan, would become a champion for Cutu’s opportunities in the U.S. Mamaw could tell that Cutu wanted to learn, and worked diligently with her on the English language.

“She loved me and I loved her too,” Cutu said of Mamaw. “I wanted to learn, and I did learn.

If there were things I didn’t understand, I would write it down, and when I get home, I would ask Mom Nelson and she would explain it to me. She would put the names on all of the things; the stove or the refrigerator, plate, spoon, she would put a note on all of them around the house so I could learn, she would help me to pronounce it.

After being there three months, I had enough English to get around.”

In addition to helping Cutu with the language, the Nelson’s welcomed her into their family, brought Cutu along to family events, and made her a part of holiday celebrations. It was at one of these holiday times that Cutu would meet Logan for the first time. Logan was just 11.

“Compartimos una cuarto,” Logan said, trying some of her Spanish successfully. “We shared a room, downstairs.

Cutu stayed in the room where we usually stayed, so when we got there, we just stayed together. I thought Cutu was really fun. She liked to laugh, and she had a cute accent when she was trying to speak English. As a little girl I just remember loving to say her name, ‘Cutu Aurelia Martinez’.”

After that initial meeting, the two would see each other several additional times over the next five years and would continue to build a friendship.

Martinez even flew with Christie Nelson to visit Logan and her family in California where her father was stationed in the military.

“We went to see the family and the kids,” recalled Martinez. “We also went to Omaha once to see them when they moved there. We also saw them in Florida and St. Louis when (Christie Nelson’s other sisters) got married. I saw them a lot, we spent a lot of time together.”

Logan also recalls one stint when her father was between posts and she and her family returned to Indiana for an extended time period.

“I remember she had more pantalones vaqueros (blue jeans) than anyone else I’d ever met,” Logan said, lauging. “I think she really loved it here in the U.S. She would hang them on hangers, I bet she had 25 pair.”

“They were nice for the cold,” Martinez said with a smile. After all, Indiana was much colder than Puerto Barrios.

Cutu graduated from high school in 1990 at the age of 28.

“In the beginning I would say ‘Lord why did you take me over there, give me the opportunity to learn the English, then not let me go back? What is the purpose for my life?’

But over time I saw.”

Cutu Martinez She loved working in the Nelson’s garden on the farm in the summertime, and even remembers riding in the tractor. Cutu also enjoyed going fishing with Mamaw, and made many memories.

“All good experiences,” said Cutu. “I made a few friends at high school, but mainly I was with the family. I loved it at the holiday time because all of the family would come and bring all of the kids there. I lived there for five and a half years.

I was planning on becoming a citizen, maybe going into the army. Mom Nelson wanted my education to continue.”

In November of 1991, Cutu’s life would take an unexpected turn. After returning to her native Guatemala to visit her Garifuna family, she was not admitted back into the U.S. Martinez flew from Guatemala City to Houston but was detained at customs where she was questioned. Martinez had been in the states on a student visa, and was in the process of obtaining a green card. She had left the U.S. before the green card was finalized, and was denied reentry.

“They said I had to go back to Guatemala,” Cutu explained.

“So I called Mom Nelson and I told her they wouldn’t let me get in. I was crying. I was having a great life over there. Mom Nelson wanted me to keep going to school so I could learn more, I wanted it too, but the Lord had a different plan.”

Cutu Martinez has never been back to the U.S. since. She admitted that it was tough realizing that her life in the U.S. would never resume.

“I kept crying,” said Cutu. “I wanted to go back, but it wasn’t possible, so I had to stay here.

In January of 1992 I found a job teaching English here in my hometown (Puerto Barrios).

That’s what I’ve been doing since then. In the beginning I would say ‘Lord why did you take me over there, give me the opportunity to learn the English, then not let me go back? What is the purpose for my life?’ But over time I saw.

We have missionaries come to our church, and when Elizabeth came too, they needed somebody to translate for them.

The Lord needed me here. Now I can see why this happened, I can see the Lord’s plan.”

After an eight hour bus ride from the airport, Logan and Martinez make it back to Puerto Barrios, to Logan’s Martinez family. There are 12 people living in Cutu’s home. It is a home filled with love, but doesn’t have many amenities, and there is no running water. Along with Cutu lives her elderly mother, three sisters,

JESSE LOGAN | THE PIONEER

Fundraising efforts have helped transform the Martinez home from the shelter seen above to the more permanent structure seen below.

a brother, two nephews, their wives, one of their babies, as well as a niece. The home is not large. Depending on the night of the week, other neighborhood children will often stay with the Martinez family when they have nowhere else to go.

Cutu is affectionately known throughout the neighborhood as “tia” as well. She and her sisters sell coconut bread and bananas out of their home, which is always full of activity. On this 72-degree night, the Martinez family is getting ready for a special event, ‘Garifuna’s Day’ is the following day.

“Being in Puerto Barrios is something I love,” Logan said.

“I see how relational they are as people, they really enjoy spending time together. Everyone makes time. They’re so giving and loving. Even though they don’t have a lot, they give. That sacrificial way of living really speaks to me.”

Logan’s first trip to Puerto Barrios was in 2014 when she came with her father-in-law, and she’s returned at least once every year since. On two occasions the friends met in Guatemala City and spent time at Casa Shalom orphanage in San

Lucas. Other people from Pine City accompanied the Logan’s on several of these trips, getting a taste of the Guatemalan culture and doing missionary work. Cutu was along each time to serve as interpreter.

“I was ministered to just watching it all happen,” Logan said of the various trips.

“Seeing people reach out to one another. Even though I don’t speak the language, just the being together is so rewarding for me. Sharing that with other people from Pine City has been great too. Because our foundation is in the Lord, we have that trust and love between one another.”

Garifuna’s Day is a national holiday in Guatemala. Every year on Nov. 26, the Garifuna people reenact what it was like for their ancestors to arrive on the shores of Puerto Barrios nearly 400 years ago. People wear native clothing, pound on hand drums, and watch as boats full of their friends come ashore. A party ensues, and on this day, Logan is right in the middle of the action.

“The Garifuna people are black people who were slaves in the beginning,” Cutu explained. “They came here from

an island named St. Vincent.

They were spread all over Central America. They came to Guatemala, to Puerto Barrios, and they started working. They were fishermen and farmers, growing bananas and plantains. Today we make a resemblance of that first time they came, all those many years ago, when they came to this land.”

As some Garifunas come to shore, others waive the Garifuna’s flag, a flag with three stripes: black, white, and yellow. The people speak in their native tongue of Garifuna, a mix of African, English, Spanish and German. The party isn’t exclusive to Garifunas as around 2,000 people gather to share in the food, dance to music, and celebrate. Fried green bananas, coconut bread, as well as rice and beans with chicken are all on the menu. Cutu’s family hosts a food truck and sells to many of the attendees.

“I thought it was a lot of fun,” Logan said of the celebration.

“It helped me understand their culture. You know, a lot of people think Guatemalans live in Guatamala. Now I understand that Guatemalans are SEE FRIENDSHIP, PAGE 14

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PINE CITY PIONEER www.pinecitymn.com

DECEMBER 28, 2017

FRIENDSHIP: From across the miles, friends promise to stay ‘family forever’ FROM PAGE 13

comprised of Garifuna, Mayan, and the decedents of Spanish people, who we would say are traditional Guatemalan.

I kind of expected it to be a little bit sad somehow, with the slavery aspect, as they reenacted their first coming here, but it wasn’t sad, it seemed like more of a new beginning.”

Surrounded by the sound of the party, Logan couldn’t help but recall a new beginning of her own, back in 2013 when she reconnected with Cutu on facebook.

They saw each other again in 2014 after having not seen one another since 1991.

“She looked exactly the same as I remembered her,” the Pine Citian said of her tia. “She called me her ‘sobrina’ (neice) and had flowers for me. It was a special moment.”

Having never been to Puerto Barrios before, a culture shock would have affected most people. After all, life there, sleeping in mosquito nets and living without refrigerators or running water, is a major departure from life back home in Pine County.

“It was funny,” said Cutu with a laugh.

“The first night she got here, she put her stuff on the floor. My nephew saw that it was raining and the roof was leaking on her stuff and she was just sitting there.

My nephew tried to tell her but he didn’t speak any English, so they had to just move her stuff for her.”

In subsequent years, Logan worked with Christie Nelson and other family members to raise funds for repairs to the Martinez home. On a trip in 2015, the home was anointed and blessed. Today, after another significant renovation was paid for in a miraculous manner by the local government, the home looks significantly updated. Concrete floors have replaced dirt floors, walls have been fortified, the roof is fixed, and a new addition is going up. More importantly, relationships have been forged and families that live thousands of miles apart have come together.

“I know it’s the Lord,” Logan said about her own family embracing her second family. “My father-in-law has been here, my mother-in-law has been

‘I know it’s the Lord ... I think that speaks to the Lord and my calling. I have a heart for Guatemala. Everyone I’ve brought here has also loved it ... I think it would be amazing to be down here more often.’

Elizabeth Logan here, my dad has been here, and both of my sons have been here. My husband has been to Puerto Barrios twice, and to Guatemala four times. It’s amazing to me that I’ve been able to influence them to come. I think that speaks to the Lord and my calling. I have a heart for Guatemala. Everyone I’ve brought here has also loved it. If I had to fight tooth and nail to come visit that would take the fun out of it.”

On this specific trip, Logan spent time looking at properties in Puerto Barrios.

She sees an opportunity to do something special in the area, to work alongside local churches, plan outreach events, do service projects, coordinate medical teams, and place an emphasis on discipleship. She would love to move to Guatemala full-time, but doesn’t know exactly what the Lord will do next. Raising funds for such an endeavor is a challenge. Much like Cutu probably felt all those years ago in Houston when she was denied reentry to the U.S., for Logan, the thought of leaving Guatemala and not coming back is heartbreaking.

On the morning of Nov. 30, Logan is back at the airport and ready to return home. One last embrace with her tia, and in moments, she will be in the air.

“We are always going to be family, the Lord willing” said Cutu.

“Familia siempre” said Logan, which means ‘family forever.’

After making it to the gate, Logan has some additional time to reflect. She’s eternally grateful for each opportunity to serve the Lord and spend time in Puerto Barrios.

“I think it would be amazing to be down

JESSE LOGAN | THE PIONEER

Elizabeth Logan (right) helps a young customer load up his purchases. The Martinez family sell fruit and operate a food cart to help make ends meet.

here more often,” the Pine Citian adds.

“To continue to sow into their lives with faith and encouragement. I can see the Lord’s hand in it all from the time that my aunt Christie lived there, and she brought me my first Spanish Bible when I was just a girl. Hearing her stories as a missionary, then getting to go serve in the same place myself. Having an opportunity to speak to the women at Cutu’s church. I’m not much of a speaker and there’s nothing special about me per se,

but just being able to come and share. To pray for each other, I felt it was really rewarding, and they enjoyed it too. They want me to come back.”

As of now, Logan has no immediate plans to return to Puerto Barrios. She hopes another trip may happen in six to nine months, for sure within a year.

That seems like a long time at the moment. But what’s a year when compared to a lifetime? And, after all, a lifetime is fleeting when compared to eternity.

ROBBED: Hansen charged with Hinckley robbery

Hats, mittens donated to Head Start

FROM PAGE 1

Lakes and Pines’ Early Head Start/Head Start received a generous donation of hats and mittens from Neighborhood National Bank of Mora which were collected through their hat and mitten drive. The donated items consisted of 80 pair of mittens and 43 hats which will be distributed to families enrolled in the Lakes and Pines’ Early Head Start/Head Start Program. Pictured (l-r) Kraig Gratke of Lakes and Pines, Jodi and Sam from Neighborhood National Bank.

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Facebook earlier that day asking for money. He said that when he came outside to meet them she was driving the Jeep and the juvenile male was in the backseat, but no one else was in the vehicle. The 911 caller said a man wearing a black jacket with a hood, blue jeans, brown boots and a blue bandanna over his face walked around the corner of the building and approached them. The man told the caller to empty his pockets and put everything in the Jeep, though he let the caller keep his keys to be able to get back into his apartment. The man then got into the Jeep and told the female driver to start driving or he would shoot her.

According to deputies, Hansen told them that the robbery was the idea of the juvenile female. The juvenile female allegedly told deputies that she nev-

er saw the robbery and never saw a gun, but that she had come there planning to purchase marijuana.

A gun matching the description of the weapon used in the alleged robbery was later recovered from the house where the Jeep was parked when deputies arrived. The sheriff’s office reported that 911 caller’s property was also recovered.

Hansen faces one count of aggravated robbery, one count of simple robbery, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon previously convicted of a crime of violence. Hansen had previously been convicted of first degree burglary in June 2003.

The maximum sentence for aggravated robbery is 20 years in prison and/or a $35,000 fine.

Hansen’s next court date is set for Jan. 23 at 1:30 p.m.

PEOPLE

DECEMBER 28, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

15

www.pinecitymn.com

Harvey G. Lindstrom Harvey G. Lindstrom, of Pine City, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017, at home surrounded by family.

He was 75 years old.

Harv was born on Aug. 22, 1942, at the Rush City Hospital, to Paul and Emma (Boeck) Lindstrom.

He was the oldest of five sons and attended elementary school in Rush City and then Rock Creek. He attended, then graduated from, Pine City High School in 1960 and attended one year of college at St. Cloud State University.

He met JoAnn McDonald at Moulton’s Rollerdrome in Rush City; they later married on May 11, 1963. Early on, his passion for service and community began by him being a 4-H leader, a firefighter for the Pine City Fire Department, a Sno-Blazer, and a founding member of the Pine City Jaycees. Harv and JoAnn’s first daughter, Kris, was born early in 1966. Two other daughters followed – Lara in 1968 and Karin in 1970 – and Harv planned on all three being named John Paul. Although he did not have any boys, Harv was happily involved in the girls’ lives and was particularly pleased to know he instilled in the girls the value of serving others.

While he and JoAnn raised the girls, Harv continued to be in service to others through his work as an EMT, Explorer Post 188 Canoe Adviser, member of the Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (ORLC) Council, Relay for Life organizer, and key promoter and builder for Habitat for Humanity for four builds.

After retirement and until just weeks before his death, Harv continued to show his servant’s heart volunteering as a grunt worker for Toys for Tots; board member and set maker for the Heritage Players; set maker for Pine City High School musicals and plays;

deliverer for Meals on Wheels; builder for the Pine City Elementary Dragonwood, ORLC preschool and Beroun playgrounds, and the Pine City hockey arena; and past-President, trail groomer, youth snowmobile safety trainer, grant writer, and more for the Hinckley/Pine City Flames Snowmobile Club. Two of his proudest accomplishments for the Flames were designing Heidi’s Shelter and Harv’s Bridge. With a lifetime of serving others, Harv felt very honored to be Pine City’s 2013 Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Harv was always involved with the building trades, beginning with his own construction business in the 1970s and ending with his building official work for the City of Pine City and other local cities and townships.

In order to serve others, in his last job, Harv worked tirelessly to maintain the Birchwood Cemetery, repairing headstones and keeping headstones clear of grass and debris.

Although he gave lots of his time serving others, he always found time to enjoy his whole family, whether it was impromptu Pizza Pub dinners at the Clementson’s, snowmobile trips locally and up north, playing on beaches and scuba diving in Mexico, or playing volleyball or driving grandkids and great-grandkids in the Gator at home. A big fan of his daughters’, grandchildren’s, and great-grandchildren’s sports, Harv attended countless track and cross country meets, and volleyball and hockey games. Harv was also active, playing church softball, tennis with JoAnn, and volleyball with “Rock Creek Rules.”

He is survived by wife JoAnn; children Kris (Randy) Clementson, Lara (Snuffy) Smetana, and Dr. Karin (Joel) Lindstrom Bremer, all of Pine City; grandchildren Jared (Bry) Clementson, of Pine City, Jordan (Nikki) Clementson of Fargo, North Dakota, Brietta Clementson, and Peyton and Maggie Jo Smetana, all of Pine City; great-grandchildren Weston, Annika, and Miraya Clementson of Pine City; brothers Gordon (Virginia) Lindstrom of Renton, Washington, Gary (Donna) Lindstrom of Pine City, Virgil (Caroline) Lindstrom of Cambridge, and Daryl (Lynn) Lindstrom of Rock Creek; mother-in-law Margaret McDonald of Pine City; brother-in-law Barry (Terry) White of Pine City; many cousins, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Harv was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Emma Lindstrom, father-in-law Jack McDonald, sister-in-law Pam White, and niece Jaclyn White.

Pastor Fred Hanson will officiate at funeral services for Harv at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2018, with a time of visitation and reviewal from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 1, 2018, and also one hour prior to the service, all at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Pine City. The Pine City Volunteer Fire Department will be honor guard.

Interment will take place at a later date at Birchwood Cemetery in Pine City.

Memorials may be designated to Heritage Players in Pine City. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service of Pine City ~ Swanson Chapel. www.FuneralAndCremationService.com

Jean Schultz Jean Schultz, of Rush City, passed away at Ecumen of North Branch on Monday, Dec. 18, 2017, at the age of 95.

Jean Claire Overmann was born Oct. 31, 1922, to Alfred and Mary (Squires) Overmann on their farm in Rushseba Township. When Jean was 2 years old, they moved into Rush City, where she attended school and graduated from Rush City High School. On June 3, 1945, Jean was married to Waldo “Tony” Schultz at the original St. John’s Lutheran Church on Rush Lake. The couple made their home on the Schultz family farm in Nessel Township for all their married years.

Early on, Jean worked as a secretary at Hardware Mutual Insurance Company in Minneapolis for several years. She also worked as a clerk in Rush City at Peterson’s grocery store for 12 years and at Moses SEE OBITUARIES, PAGE 16

WORSHIP GUIDE

Church of Christ

Grasston Baptist Church

815 7th St. SW, Pine City 10 a.m. Bible Study 11 a.m. Worship Service 4 p.m. Evening Service Wednesday, 7 p.m. Bible Study.

Contact: Greg Douvier 320-420-1302

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

Hands for Pine City

Dale Evangelical Free Church

Outreach Church Meeting at Pine City Library Community Room, 300 5th St. SE P.O. Box 164 Sunday NIGHTS 5-6PM Pastors Julie & Brad Samuelson 320-496-3009 Hands4PC@gmail.com Facebook fan page: Hands for Pine City Existing to be the hands of Jesus to Pine City

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

First Presbyterian Church 405 Main St. S., Pine City 320-629-3592 Rev. Rob Spahr www.firstprespinecity.org 10:00 a.m. Sunday School-all ages, No Sunday School-June-August 10:30 a.m. Worship Celebration Wednesday @ 6:15 p.m. Youth Group

Henriette Community Church

Grace Baptist Church

Hinckley Seventh Day Adventist

1 mile Southwest of Pine City on Fairway Road (next to I-35) 320-629-1374 Pastor Tim W. Stratton 10:00 a.m. Sunday School for all ages. 11:00 a.m. Preaching Service, 6:00 p.m. Evening Service.

7:30 p.m. Wed. Bible study, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Master Clubs for children ages 4 to 6th grade.

550 1st St. NE, Hinckley 320-384-6167 Pastor: Carlos Rodriguez Services, Saturday, 11 a.m.

Fellowship lunch 1st and 3rd Saturday following services.

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

Hope Lutheran Church Grasston Dean Oelfke, Pastor 320-396-3925 hopelutherangrasston.org

Sunday Worship Service 11am Holy Communion first and third Saturdays and festival days.

Sunday Mornings: Life Class 9 a.m., Worship Service 10 a.m.

Pomroy Chapel

2700 320th Ave., Brook Park A NON-DENOMINATIONAL CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP For Special events &/or group studies call: 320-679-3925 Sunday Services: 9:30 a.m. Prayer 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 11:00 a.m. Fellowship following Worship

Living Water Fellowship

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

Open Arms Church of God

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

Journey North Church Current location: 840 Main St S, behind A&W. Pastor Tim Adams 320-629-6111 Sunday Services: 9 & 10:30 a.m.

Nursery, toddlers and KidVenture programs during both services. www.JourneyNorthChurch.com

Living Hope Christian Center Pastor Jeremy Langmade Assembly of God 11914 Fairway Rd. SW, Pine City ¾ mile West of I-35 on Pokegama Lake Road 320-629-6136 Livinghopepinecity@gmail.com

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

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

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

Children’s ministry

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church

South Pine Baptist Church

825 Golf Ave SW, Pine City 320-629-2985 Pastor Fred Hanson Sunday services: 8 and 9:30 a.m.

Coffee and fellowship between services Sunday school is at 9:30 Sundays.

Thursday Service: 5:30 p.m.

Meeting at Pine City Library Community Room 300 5th St SE, Pine City, MN Pastor Dennis Eng 320-336-9292 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible study at 7p.m.

(Call for location) www.southpinebaptist.org

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

Pine City Evangelical Free Church 625 Golf Ave SW Pastor Joel Preston Sunday Service 10:00 a.m.

Sunday School (all ages) 9:15 a.m.

Nursery (infant-3yrs) all morning Wednesdays: AWANA (Sept-Apr) 6 p.m.; Frontline (Youth Group), Jr & Sr High 6:00 p.m.

Phone: 320-629-2584 Email: office@pcefc.com, www.pcefc.com

Zion Lutheran Church 410 Main St. S, Pine City Worship 9 a.m.

Wednesday Service 7 p.m.

Growing in Grace Preschool Mon-Wed- Fri a.m.

Pastor Glen Kleppe 320-629-3683

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

PIONEER

To become a sponsor of the Worship Guide or to list your church, Contact Meliza at

PINE CITY

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

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

320-629-6771 www.pinecitymn.com

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

(320)322-5243 or mel@countystar.com

PIONEER PINE CITY

MEMBER

16

PEOPLE

PINE CITY PIONEER

DECEMBER 28, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com OBITUARIES, FROM PAGE 15

Memorial

Jean Schultz (cont.)

John Bloom 1972-1993 Cory Johnson 1972-1992

grocery store for 13 years. Later in her work life, she worked as a coordinator for Meals on Wheels, the Green Thumb organization at the Rush City Hospital, the Family Resource Center and the Rush City Schools. She was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church; playing organ, teaching Sunday school for several years, as well as serving on many other boards. Always the homemaker, Jean enjoyed baking and was very proud of a blue ribbon she received at the Chisago County Fair for her homemade “Graham Bread.” Jean and Tony enjoyed fishing trips, travels, being with family and friends and dancing. On Jan. 5, 1992, Tony passed away, and in 1993 Jean moved to Rush Oaks Apartments in Rush City where she continued to enjoy her volunteer work and playing cards/games with family and friends.

Jean is survived by her sister Barbara Kirk of Rush City; nieces and nephews: Susie and Jeff Elsenpeter, Frank and Priscilla Mitchell, all of Rush City, Kirby Lindstrom of Little Falls, Stephanie Kasper of Underwood, Theresa and Brian Bennett of Laporte, Colo., Edward and Ann Kirk of Deerwood and Cindy and Scott Ulrich of Apple Valley.

She is preceded in death by her parents Alfred and Mary Overmann; husband Tony Schultz; sisters Dorothy (Eugene) Lindstrom, Mary (Jeff) Mitchell; nephew Bill (Pat) Mitchell; nieces Katy Miller and Sheila Mitchell.

Reverend Tim Renstrom will officiate a Celebration of Jean’s life at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 29, 2017, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Rush City with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior. The interment will take place in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery at Rush Lake.

Memorials may be designated to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Rush City.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City ~ Olson Chapel. www.FuneralAndCremationService.com

Protect yourself from credit card skimming BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

Even though it’s been 25 years, we remember them!

In the rising of the sun and its going down, we remember them.

In the blowing of the wind and the chill of the winter, we remember them.

In the opening of the buds and in the rebirth of spring, we remember them.

In the blueness of the sky and in the warmth of summer, we remember them.

In the rustling of the leaves and in the beauty of autumn, we remember them.

In the beginning of the year and when it ends, we remember them.

When we are weary and in need of strength, we remember them.

When we are lost and sick at heart, we remember them.

When we have joys we yearn to share, we remember them.

So long as we live, they too shall live, for they are now part of us, as we remember them.

- Sadly missed by Keith and Jayne Bloom and Sarah, Eldon and Sandra Johnson and Ani

Kids can watch the ball drop at Rush City Public Library EAST CENTRAL REGIONAL LIBRARY

Kids can welcome in the new year at the Rush City Public Library with their own “ball drop” and special activities.

The next “Super Saturday” event will help kids ages 6-10 celebrate the coming

year on Saturday, Dec. 30, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at 240 West 4th Street in downtown Rush City.

Kids will enjoy a scavenger hunt, goofy games, crafts, snacks, the library’s very own “ball drop” and more.

For information call (320) 358-3948.

Even if you’re choosy about which gas stations you frequent, you can still become a victim of financial thieves that place seamless devices on machines to steal – or ‘skim’ – sensitive financial information.

In recent years, thieves have increasingly targeted gas pumps to steal credit card data. Skimming devices are placed inside the pump and are undetectable from the outside.

Credit card information can now even be obtained from the skimming device via Bluetooth technology so thieves don’t have to go back to the pump to retrieve stolen card numbers.

Many gas stations are taking measures to secure their pumps via tamper-resistant security tape and visual inspections, but to avoid having your financial information stolen, pay inside rather than at the pump. Minnesota’s Department of Commerce is also taking steps to tackle this problem.

To avoid becoming a victim of credit card skimmers: • Give it a wiggle – Skimming devices are often false panels attached to the credit card reader where you swipe your card. Inspect debit and credit terminals closely. If anything looks damaged or unusual, give it a wiggle. Also watch out for new or suspiciously placed cameras and unusual signage. Don’t hesitate to walk away and if something doesn’t feel right.

• Pay inside or pay with cash – Paying inside at gas stations reduces your risk of credit card fraud greatly, and paying with cash is an even safer approach.

• See something, say something – If you notice any suspicious activity (especially someone who is not a station employee or an inspector who is opening up a pump), alert the station attendant.

• Keep an eye on your statements – The most vigilant person can still fall

victim to skimming, and it’s important to always keep a close eye on your accounts – particularly the itemized breakdown of monthly charges – so that you can report any suspicious activity on your account.

• Report fraud immediately – Report any fraudulent activity to your bank or credit card provider as soon as you discover it. Paying with a credit card instead of a debit card, because they offer great protections. Consumers who think that they’ve been victims of skimming should visit IdentityTheft.gov to report identity theft and develop a recovery plan.

The FBI investigates a wide variety of credit card fraud schemes to include Internet-facilitated criminal activity. If you believe you’ve been a victim of an online fraud scheme, the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center is a reliable and convenient reporting mechanism to submit information using the following website: www.ic3.gov/. Consumers can also file complaints with the FTC (877-FTC-HELP; ftc.gov).

If you notice any suspicious activity (especially someone who is not a station employee or an inspector opening up a pump), alert the station attendant or call the MN Department of Commerce’s Weight & Measures Division at 651-539-1555.

These tips were created with input and assistance from: Minnesota Department of Commerce; the FBI and FTC; Apple Valley Police Department; and Brooklyn Park Police Department.

The mission of Better Business Bureau is to be the leader in building marketplace trust by promoting, through self-regulation, the highest standards of business ethics and conduct, and to instill confidence in responsible businesses through programs of education and action that inform, assist and protect the general public. Our hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact BBB at bbb.org or 651699-1111, toll-free at 800-646-6222.

PINE COUNTY SHERIFF’S BLOTTER Dec. 18D 18 Dec. D 24 Theft, burglary, vandalism Dec. 18, 7:17 a.m., report of burglary, 550th St., Rock Creek West.

Dec. 18, 1:16 p.m., report of theft, countryside Loop, Kettle River Twp. Dec. 18, 4:50 p.m., report of fraud, Amber LN, Pokegama Twp West.

Dec. 19, 1:15 p.m., report of theft, 1st St, Pine City South.

Dec. 21, 8:56 a.m., report of theft, Johnson Ave., Pine City South.

Dec. 21, 4:45 p.m., report of shoplifter, Evergreen Sq., Pine City South.

Miscellaneous Dec. 18, 12:50 p.m.., report of trespass, 11th St., Pine City South.

Dec. 18, 2:44 report of suspicious activity, Beroun Crossing Rd, Munch Twp. Dec. 19, 12:28 p.m., report of trespass, Beroun Crossing Rd, Pokegama Twp East.

Dec. 19, 2:03 p.m., unwanted person, Rice Rd, Brook Park Twp. Dec. 20, 10:31 a.m., report of crank 911 calls, County Hwy 61, Kettle River Twp.

Fires and accidents Dec. 20, 7:14 a.m., property damage w/animal, Saint Croix Rd, Pine City Twp East.

Dec.20, 5:56 p.m., report of personal injury, I-35, Rock Creek West.

Dec. 21, 9:47 p.m., report of property damage/ hit run, 540th St., Rock Creek West Dec. 23, 12:16 p.m., report of personal injury, Upper Lake Rd., Pine Lake Twp.

Jail roster Dec. 18, Vernon Marlin, Pine County warrant,

d b il d 5th d h remand-bail, drugs-5th degree-possess sche..., released Dec. 20.

Dec. 18, Dustin Kenneth Young, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, remand-bail, traffic-DUI1st degree-alcohol conc over.., driving after suspension.released Dec. 20.

Dec. 18, Teanna Lynn Emery, Pine County warrant, remand-RPR, government-false name to police officer. released Dec. 19.

Dec. 18, Luke Adam Thomas, Pine County warrant, drugs-5th degree-possess sche... released Dec. 19.

Dec. 18, Chloe Jean Darveaux, hold other agency, drugs-5th degree-possess sche.., released Dec. 18.

Dec. 19, Erin Rachel Bearheart, hold other agency, drugs-5th degree-possess, paraphernalia-possess, government-false name to police officer, theft-take/use/transfer movable p..., released Dec. 20.

Dec. 19, Gordon Lee Davis, Pine County warrant, remand-bail, trespass-return to property withi.., traffic-DUI-4th degree .08 or more in, financial transaction card fraud-, drugs-5th degree-possess, released Dec. 20.

Dec 19, Travis James Eckdahl, Pine County warrant, under sentence, drugs-5th degree-poss/ procure/control., released Dec. 20.

Dec. 19, Brandon Stuart miner, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, remand-bail, domestic assault-by strangulation, released Dec. 20.

De. 19, Calleen Marie Robertson, Pine County warrant, remand-RPR, drugs-possess/sale/ need..,5th degree-possess sche..., traffic-driving after revocation, released Dec. 20.

Dec. 20, Anthony Charles Hansen, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, aggravated robbery.

Dec. 20, Cory Alan Trampe, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic-drivers license-driving after cancellation-inimical to public safety. released Dec. 20.

Dec. 21, Blair Robert Peterson, warrant, under

t d ti abuse; b i l t order d ffor... sentence, domestic violates Dec. 21, Zachary Allen Larsen, warrant, remand-bail, criminal sex conduct-1st degree-penetr..

Dec. 21, Joseph Michael Dunkley Jr., awaiting trial/court, remand-bail, aggravated robbery, probable cause, drugs-5th degree-posses Dec. 21, Glenn James Usher, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, remand-bail, traffic-drivers license-driving after cancellation-inimical to public safety, drugs-store paraphenalia in..., released Dec. 23.

Dec. 21, B+Deandrea Jewell Leecy, under sentence, Pine County warrant, drugs-5th degree-possess sche..., government-smuggle-contraband into pris...released Dec. 22.

Dec. 21, Edwin Floyd Poff, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic-driving after revocation, released Dec. 22.

Dec. 21, James Carl Cathers, Pine County warrant, remand-rpr, government-vioate no contact order-wit...,released Dec. 21.

Dec. 21, William Gary Gilbet, hold for other agency, drugs-5th degree-possess/procure/ control, released Dec. 21.

Dec. 21, Travis Victor Hughes, probation/parole violation, vehicle -theft-$1001 or greater-F..., released Dec. 21.

Dec. 22, Michael James Strelow, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, drugs-5th degree-poss schedu.., traffic-driving after revocation, insurance-no proof.

Dec. 22, Tyler John Shabaiash, Pine County warrant, drugs-5th degree-poss/procure/control su...

Dec. 22, Martin Ray Nelson, awaiting trial/court, prbation/parole violation, domestic abuse; violates 2 or more, remand-bail, domestic abuse no contact order-v.., government-obstruct legal process-interfe..

Dec. 22, Timothy Darrell Koffler, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, drugs-2nd degree-posse-

i ttraffi ffic-driving d i i after ft cancellation. ll ti sion, Dec. 22, Victor Lee Bowen, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, domestic abuse-violate oder for..

Dec. 22, Nicole Josephine Bieringer, Pine County warrant, drugs-5th degree-possess schedu...

Dec. 22, Richard James Archie Benjamin, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, assault-deomestic assault-misd Dec. 22, Terrance Patrick Flahery, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, traffic-drivers licensedriving after cancellation-inimical to public safety, released Dec. 22.

Dec. 23, Jessica Jo Pigeon, Pine County warrant, theft-$500 or less-m..

Dec. 23, Danielle Lynn Knoll, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, drugs-5th degree- possess Dec. 23, Kathi Jolene Ford, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, drugs-5th degree-possess/procure/control su..., possess or sell-small amount mj, assault-domestic assault-misd Dec. 23, Elizabeth Elaine Pasek, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, traffic-DUI of alcohol, 4th degree .08 or more in, released Dec. 23. Dec. Dec. 23, Abigail Rene Pfeifer, Pine County warrant, theft-$500 or less-m..., released Dec. 23.

Dec. 24, Kristi McCol Peel, Pine County warrant, drugs-5th degree-posses/procure/control su...

Dec. 24, Matthew Joseph Bentler, awaiting trial/court, probable cause, drugs-5th degreepossess/procure/ control su..., check forgery-make or alter a check Dec. 24, Jason Gene Lindman, awaiting trial/ court, probable cause, stolen property-possess-other property-$501-$2

There have been 2,450 admissions to the Pine County Jail in 2017.

DECEMBER 28, 2017

PINE CITY PIONEER

17

www.pinecitymn.com Notice of Filing for Chengwatana Township office The following township offices will be voted on at the annual March Township Election to be held on March 13, 2018. The filing period for the following offices begins at 8:00 a.m., Tuesday January 2, 2018 and ends at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday January 16, 2018.

The place of filing for candidates who reside in Chengwatana Township is with the Town Clerk, (320-6292208) or by appointment at the Chengwatana Town Hall.

The filing fee is $2.00.

One Supervisor (3 year term)

One Clerk (2 year term) Candidates may file in person or by mail. Candidates who will be absent from the state during the filing period may arrange to file prior to departure.

This notice is provided pursuant to M.S. 204B.33.

Katy Overtoom, Clerk Chengwatana Township Pine County, Minnesotain Published in the Pine City Pioneer on December 21 and 28, 2017

Supermoons bookend January skies

BY DEANE MORRISON MINNESOTA STARWATCH

January starts and ends with full “supermoons” – one on New Year’s Day and one on the 31st.

On New Year’s Day we get the closest full moon of the year – a mere 221,700 miles away. Perfect fullness comes at 8:24 p.m. – less than five hours after both moonrise and perigee, the moon’s closest approach to Earth in a lunar cycle.

In other words, 2018 starts with a rising moon that scores way up on the size, brightness and roundness scales.

During the night of the 1st-2nd it travels the sky in Gemini.

On the 31st, the moon reaches fullness at 7:27 a.m. It also undergoes a total lunar eclipse. Totality begins at 6:52 a.m., followed by the moment of deepest eclipse at 7:30 a.m. and the end of totality at 8:08 a.m. Unfortunately, over the eastern part of the state this supermoon sets before or very shortly after the deepest eclipse. Still, the eclipse will deliver more than enough for a great early-morning show.

This full moon also meets one definition of a “blue moon”: the second full moon in a calendar month.

The morning sky continues to outdo its evening counterpart in terms of planet watching. Early in the month, Saturn slips over the southeastern horizon and climbs higher every day. Jupiter begins the month high in the southeastern pre-

dawn sky, just to the lower left of Mars.

But the king of planets is about to overtake the god of war. On the 6th and 7th, watch brighter Jupiter climb past Mars, coming barely half a moon width from the red planet. On the 11th, a waning crescent moon visits the planets, which will then be about two degrees apart.

Southeast of both planets, Scorpius and its gigantic red heart, Antares, are rising.

Another bright red star shines in the east after nightfall. That is Betelgeuse, at Orion’s northeast shoulder. Grab your binoculars and find the sword hanging from the three stars of Orion’s belt. The sword’s middle “star” is the Orion Nebula, an immense region of multicolored gas and dust clouds where young stars are forming at a breakneck pace.

Also turn those binocs on the V-shaped Hyades star cluster, which forms the face of Taurus, the bull. It’s just northeast of Orion and marked by orangeish Aldebaran, the eye of the bull. Aldebaran isn’t part of the Hyades cluster, however. The Hyades are about 150 light-years away, while Aldebaran is a foreground star some 65 light-years from Earth.

Moving northeast again, the lovely Pleiades star cluster – also known as the Seven Sisters – is another delight for the eye. Like the Hyades, the Pleiades are an open star cluster. In open clusters, the stars were all born around the same time and are traveling through space together.

MIKE GAINOR | THE PIONEER

A little help for the big red kettle Zane makes sure his donated dollar is dropping right into the slot on the Salvation Army’s big red kettle at Walmart on Dec. 1.

Come to an

OPEN HOUSE at the Pine City Pioneer office at 405 2nd Ave. SE to congratulate

DONNA HEATH on her retirement as a Pioneer reporter!

Friday, Dec. 29 • 12:30-4 p.m.

PHOTO PROVIDED

4-Hers form stronger clubs Ten Pine, Kanabec and Mille Lacs 4-H youth and adults spent Thursday, Dec. 7, working together to create a stronger club experience through club officer positions. Program Coordinators Heidi Vanderloop (Pine), Laura Ambrose (Kanabec) and Danielle Ganje (Mille Lacs) collaborated on the training with the intent that all ideas incorporated could be utilized at their clubs to create a sense of belonging along with rules for conducting a club meeting. To learn more about Pine County, Kanabec County and Mille Lacs County 4-H and the great events and opportunities go to https://www.extension.umn.edu/ youth/mn4-h/.

18

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

DECEMBER 28, 2017

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

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GM Drywall: Water damage, skim coat, knock down, taping, plaster patching, remodels. FREE Est! Since 1978 651-263-7315

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! Search for: Pine City Pioneer

157 EMPLOYMENT PART TIME

NOW HIRING

Part-time and part-time casual bus drivers $13.32/hour Apply at aeoaess.aeoa. org/careers If your application is accepted, Arrowhead Transit will provide and pay for the training you need to obtain your professional commercial driver’s license (CDL).

You must be 21 years old

305 PETS/ SUPPLIES German Shepherd puppies for sale $600, ready 12/29/17. Call 763-221-6252 PLACE A CLASSIFIED TODAY.

106 HOME IMPROVEMENT Handy women of East Central MN. Painting, tiling, organizing and cleaning. Great prices.

320-703-9014

154 EMPLOYMENT

NOW HIRING: Food Service Team Members Apply in person at Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pine City, MN

320-322-5243

305 PETS/ SUPPLIES Kittens – indoor Awesome personalities!

Born 9/9/17. $20. Call or text 612-812-7089

369 WANTED BEE KEEPING Clean out your garage,shed or yard.

I am looking for bee keeping tools.

612-599-1729

451 RENTALS COMMERCIAL Meadowbrook 1 & 2 BDRM apartments- Mora, starting at $670 + electric. Available immediately. No smoking, no pets.

Contact Denny, 507-269-7639.

Did your kids miss the bus?

NO PROBLEM.

TIRED OF SEARCHING FOR BUYERS?

Placing a classified ad is an easy and affordable way to make your wares the focus of attention among potential buyers.

What are you waiting for?

Contact us today!

Advertiser

320-322-5243 www.pinecitymn.com

PINE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HAS THE FOLLOWING OPENING:

Food and Nutrition Professional

at High School Dish Room - 2 hours per day - approximately 10:45 am -12:45 pm Qualifications: School food and nutrition experience preferred. Must have knowledge of and be able to follow the federal regulations for the National School Lunch and National School Breakfast Programs. Must be capable of lifting 50 pounds. Attention to detail, organization and a positive attitude are essential. Must be able to multitask, work independently, have good communication skills, and be capable of following directions. Must have a valid Minnesota Driver’s License and pass a background check. Candidates should enjoy working with adults and children.

Upon hire employee is required to obtain the following certificate: USDA Professional Standards Minimum of School Nutrition Association Level 1 Certificate.

Kanabec Publications and North Star Media are family companies that offer flexible work hours. So, go ahead and drop your kids off at school, go on a lunch date or go get your teeth cleaned.

We’ll see you when you get back.

Now Hiring: Marketing Representatives Positions can be full or part time and offer a salary plus commission and bonus opportunities.

Applicants with previous sales experience a plus.

Be part of a successful community and help local businesses grow!

For more information, contact misti@moraminn.com

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

Apply Online: http://www.applitrack.com/pinecity/onlineapp

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

ALSO ONLINE ON THE NORTHSTAR MEDIA CLASSIFIED NETWORK COVERING EAST CENTRAL MINNESOTA pinecitymn.com - moraminn.com - isanti-chisagocountystar.com Progressive Living Solutions is a local North Branch residential adult foster care provider supporting high functioning adults with mental illness and other disabilities.

Looking for staff to assist us in our fun and laid-back social environment. No physical cares or restraining actions required.

Offering a competitive hourly wage, paid training, annual bonus, and a $500.00 new hire bonus.

Now hiring for 10:00pm – 7:30am Awake Overnight Direct Care positions with rotating weekends. Please call to discuss this opportunity!

(651) 277 - 7777

FOUNDRY POSITIONS No exp. needed Pay DOQ Benefits pkg. with 401k MOLD FINISHER NEEDED Polishing & Welding exp. preferred.

Competitive salary and benefit pkg. with 401k Al-Cast Mold & Pattern, Inc. Ham Lake 763-233-6272 NOW HIRING! Cooks and servers.

Captain's Lakeside Grille 763-444-5897

CLASSIFIED FORM

❑ Pay by Cash ❑ Pay by Check ❑ Pay by Credit Card

Name

Address

Credit card number:

City, State, Zip Phone (

Expiration Date: ____ /____

)

3 digit security code

Email

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

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

Fax 320-629-6772 Fax 320-679-2663 Place your classified online www.moraminn.com • www.pinecitymn.com No refunds on cancelled classifieds

TOTAL 1 WEEK COST

Amount from form

$

20% DISCOUNT Run 2 weeks

PRINT YOUR AD BELOW. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

First week cost $_________ X 2 weeks= $________ X .80 10 WORDS/ $10.00 11 WORDS $11.00

12 WORDS $12.00

13 WORDS $13.00

14 WORDS $14.00

15 WORDS $15.00

16 WORDS $16.00

17 WORDS $17.00

18 WORDS $18.00

19 WORDS $19.00

20 WORDS $20.00

21 WORDS $21.00

22 WORDS $22.00

23 WORDS $23.00

24 WORDS $24.00

25 WORDS $25.00

26 WORDS $26.00

27 WORDS $27.00

28 WORDS $28.00

29 WORDS $29.00

30 WORDS $30.00

TOTAL COST

First week cost $_________ X 3 weeks= $________ X .70 TOTAL COST

0351 0059 0401 0052 0113 0060 0353 0151 0403 0201 0154 0301

Antiques/Collectibles ATVs Auction Calendar Automobiles Black Dirt Boats & Accessories Building Supplies Business Opportunity Crafts/Boutiques Daycare Employment Farm Misc.

0302 Feed/Seed/Hay 0358 Firewood 0366 Guns 0159 Health Care 0115 Home Heating 0106 Home Improvement 0355 Household 0108 Landscaping 0109 Lawn Care 0361 Lawn & Garden 0012 Livestock 0016 Lost & Found

0503 Lots & Acreage 0362 Misc.

0504 Manufactured Homes 0055 Motorcycles/Bikes 0363 Music 0020 Notices 0305 Pets/Supplies 0506 Real Estate 0451 Rentals/Commercial & Residential 0453 Roommates 0056 RVs/Campers

0404 0102 0357 0057 0101 0050 0112 0058 0369 0502

$

40% DISCOUNT Run 4 weeks

First week cost $_________ X 4 weeks= $________ X .60 TOTAL COST

SELECT CATEGORY

$

30% DISCOUNT Run 3 weeks

$

ADVERTISING POLICIES:

The publisher is not liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not diminish the value of the Sales advertisement.

Services The publisher's liability for any Snow Blower/ other error is limited to crediting the Equipment advertiser for the space occupied by Snowmobiles the advertisement materially affected by the error. For example, if there is a word Snow Removal missing from a classified ad (garage sale Trailers item or descriptive word), no credit will be Tree Service issued.

Trucks/Vans/SUVs Credit will not be given for more Wanted than one incorrect insertion unless the For Sale By Owner publisher is notified the same week the error occurs. All claims for adjustment

must be communicated to the publisher within 7 days of the first insertion. Failure to do so will result in forfeit of credit.

Requests to place ads after the deadline nullifies all potential credit requests.

Please check to make sure your advertisement is correct. If you made a change in your ad - in text and/or scheduling, please check to make sure it is corrected. If you have cancelled an ad, please check to make sure that the advertisement has been cancelled.

We cannot guarantee placement of where your ad will be within your classification.

DECEMBER 28, 2017

www.pinecitymn.com

PINE CITY PIONEER

19

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

ESTATE SALE

Now Hiring Direct Support Professionals Homes in Hugo, Dellwood, White Bear, Wyoming, North Branch, Harris, Stanchfield, Pine City, Brook Park $250 Sign on Bonus Starting wages range $11.50 to $16.00/hr.

Weekend differentials, Overnight differentials Year-end bonus Paid training Medical, Dental, 401(k), Paid Personal Leave We have full-time, part-time, and relief positions available Community Living Options provides 24-hour residential care and supervision to adults and children with intellectual developmental disabilities, mental health and medical challenges.

For interview call Polly @ 651-237-1087 or email: Trainer@clomail.com Apply online at CLO-MN.com

Everything priced to sell.

Items include household goods, lawn equipment (riding lawn mower), quilting materials, holiday decor, some clothing and furniture.

Saturday, Jan. 6 9am-4pm 1115 4th Ave SW Pine City Questions please call

612-306-9677

Materials Planning Manager Questions about MNsure?

Lakes and Pines has MNsure certified navigators to help you enroll, apply for or renew health care coverage.

Appointments are available in a community near you.

Parker Hannifin - a World Class Motion and Control Manufacturing Company has an immediate need for a full-time Materials Manager in our PC&L Department. This position is located in our Grantsburg, Wisconsin facility at 533 N Oak Street, Grantsburg, WI 54840.

Call or email to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Phone: 320-679-1800 or 800-832-6082 Option 4 Email: lap@lakesandpines.org

SCOPE/SUPERVISION AND INTERACTION: Position will report to the Division Production Control Manager. Will manage personnel in inventory control and production control. Interacts with all levels of Division management including operational, engineering, quality control, marketing/sales and accounting.

Full-Time

ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNICIAN Essential Duties: Performs intermediate skilled technical work enforcing the County’s land use regulations including zoning, shore land, solid waste and SSTS ordinances, maintaining the County’s GIS system and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Land and Resources manager.

• Performs daily administration of County Septic Systems Ordinance, including: septic system design review, installation inspections, issuing permits and compliance reports and maintaining records.

• Investigates complaints and ensures enforcement of county ordinances.

• Reviews building site permit applications and evaluates construction and land alterations for ordinance compliance. Assists with maintenance of the County GIS and database.

• Assists with Solid Waste program implementation: recycling, household hazardous wast and canister transfer stations(s).

• Assists County Aquatic Invasive Species Program and Noxious Weed Program as needed.

• Assists with the Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission, as needed and attends meetings as directed.

• Reviews petitions for environmental assessment worksheets and/or environmental impact statements.

• Monitors grant-funded programs and prepares necessary state reports to receive grants and funds for programs as needed.

Minimum Qualifications: Associates/Technical degree with coursework in Natural Science Technology, or related field and moderate experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Starting Salary: Grade 8 – Minimum starting salary: $20.72/Hour Candidates wishing to be considered for this position must submit a completed application to Pine County Human Resources no later than 4:30 PM on January 12, 2018. Contact the Pine County Administrator’s Office for an application or download from the website www.co.pine.mn.us.

Application Deadline: January 12, 2018 • 4:30pm An Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES SOCIAL SERVICES SUPERVISOR - Full-Time Essential Duties: Employees in this job class perform highly responsible professional work in the administration and supervision of social services programs involving the interpretation and assessment of policies and the supervision of professional, paraprofessional and office support personnel assigned to the social services division/unit; supervises a unit providing services in one or more program area(s) including MN Choice Assessors, Waivered Services Case Managers, Licensing and Intake.

Minimum Qualifications: An accredited Master’s Degree in Social Work and one year of experience as a social worker OR A Master’s degree from an accredited college/university in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, human services administration, or closely related field (i.e., applied behavioral sciences) and one year of experience as a social worker OR Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university and four years of experience as a social worker. Also, valid driver’s license.

Starting Salary: C51 (Grade 15) - $24.64/hour - $31.64/hour DOQ per 2017 Contract For complete posting, visit our county website @ www.co.pine.mn.us under Quick Links – Employment Opportunities Application Deadline: January 19, 2018 @ noon Pine County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

2nd Shift - Supervisor Parker Hannifin - a World Class Motion and Control Manufacturing Company has an immediate need for a full-time Supervisor Position. Position will be on 2nd shift – hours will be 2:00 pm – 12:00 am. This position is located in our Grantsburg, Wisconsin facility at 533 N Oak Street, Grantsburg, WI 54840.

POSITION SUMMARY: •Advocate and support the Corporate WIN Strategy by managing and improving the quality, cost, delivery, morale and safety of a production area.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: •Supervise and direct work activity of 20 - 50 employees to include training and development, delegating work assignments, writing and conducting performance appraisals, coaching and counseling employees and administering disciplinary procedures.

• Work with team members to identify continuous improvement opportunities. Champion identification and elimination of waste as well as Kaizen events to identify cost and savings. Participate in cost reduction programs • Ensure quality standards are met that emphasize and focus on continuous improvement in an effort to improve manufacturing capability and reduce rework and scrap.

• Determine staffing requirements for the assigned production area, ensure that productivity targets are met and troubleshoot scheduling and material issues.

• Promote and enforce compliance of safety policies and procedures.

Conduct safety investigations and audits and address safety noncompliance.

REQUIREMENTS: • Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering or supervisory management and three years previous manufacturing supervisory experience or equivalent working experience • Demonstrated leadership abilities.

• Proficient computers skills • Ability to effectively work with people in a team environment and at various levels of the organization.

• Must possess strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.

• A “can-do” attitude, capable of working successfully in a fast paced and dynamic team environment.

• Have working knowledge of lean manufacturing.

• Detail oriented. Good judgment to comply with instructions and standard procedures, methods or practices Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 500 Company and a worldwide leader in the manufacture of motion and control. We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary, quarterly profit sharing plan, 401(k) plan with match, pension plan, as well as flexible medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.

Apply thru www.parker.com Parker Hannifin is an EEO/AA Employer/ Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

PLACE A CLASSIFIED TODAY!!

POSITION SUMMARY: Manages the direction and daily activities of the location’s inventory and production activities to support sales forecast, target inventories and plant production activities. Will focus on strategic, tactical and operational plans within a lean enterprise environment concentrating on people, organization, process and informational technology.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: • Responsible for Production Planning's manufacturing resource-planning activities. These activities need to help achieve division sales and RONA objectives and maintain 100% on-time customer deliveries.

• Responsibilities for personnel involved with the planning database to achieve and maintain a high degree of data accuracy, integrity, and ownership • Manages inventory relating to records, tracking of materials, changing business activity, quality of materials and stocking levels. Works closely with procurement to ensure reorder processes and timely delivery of materials are in place.

• Utilize corporate developed tracking systems such as PHConnect, PFEP (plan for every part), and S& OP (sales and operations planning) • Accountable for location materials metrics and Standards of Performance.

• Help define and implement automated systems to plan and track material flow from customers through procurement to delivery to support the Division’s Supply Chain Management Strategy.

• Administers the development and implementation of an aggressive inventory reduction program limiting the Divisions exposure to excess inventory cost. Adjust inventory levels associated with any backlog production.

• Analyzes production requirements based on immediate sales orders and short/medium term forecast considering production resources (people, materials, equipment). Works with Plant management to determine the most cost efficient utilization of production resources for on time delivery and minimized overall cost.

• Actively participates with Division management to resolve conflicts from unpredictable variances affecting the master schedule (changing priorities, engineering changes, material shortages, scrap/repairs, labor shortages, machine availability).

• Ensure the location’s material management policies are consistent with the inventory control objectives of the Corporation.

• Work closely with divisional Supply Chain personnel to maintain continuity with purchasing and supplier management processes • Provide professional development for all team members. Explain and support company policies and procedures.

• Actively support and implement lean principles at the division.

• Prepares detail reports detailing current activity and suggested improvement in processes.

QUALIFICATIONS: • 5-7 years of experience in inventory and production control.

• 4 year college degree in business, engineering, or materials management required with certification in supply chain management preferred: APICS and/or ISM. • 3-5 years of team leadership experience.

• Aptitude to manage by influence not only by hierarchy.

• Must demonstrate a history of team building and change management leadership in a lean environment.

• Possess analytical and technical skills required to understand business practices and recommend proper automation opportunities.

• Must have advanced computer skills and the ability to manipulate, analyze, and present data in multiple electronic formats.

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.

• Must be an innovator and embrace lean enterprises principles and practices.

• Proven track record of Lean implementation and/or management of continuous improvement activities.

• A demonstrated ability as a manager of meeting or exceeding goals.

We offer a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive salary, quarterly profit sharing plan, 401(k) plan with match, pension plan, as well as flexible medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.

Apply thru www.parker.com Parker Hannifin is an EEO/AA Employer/ Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

CALL 320-322-5243

or visit www.pinecitymn.com click on Classifieds, place an ad.

20

PINE CITY PIONEER

www.pinecitymn.com

DECEMBER 28, 2017

At FirstLight Health System, as we say good-bye to 2017 we reflect on our many blessings – especially the trust that our communities have placed in us.

We are honored to serve you, and want to wish all of you a very happy and healthy 2018.

FirstLightHealthSystem.org