May 4

Country Courier
S e r v i n g To d d C o u n t y , M N
VOLUME 22; NUMBER 11 - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 CIRCULATION 6,000

Counties dig into 2014 budget work

alloCounty has a population of 28,396. Cass County has a county administrator and a chief financial officer. According to a July 26 report in the Brainerd Dispatch, the county prepares its budget using a budget committee that includes one citizen appointee from each commissioner district. The committee reviews department head budget requests, then prepares the countys budget with help from the auditor/treasurer, chief financial officer, and county administrator and recommends its adoption to the county board. Cass County has five bargaining units. According to the Brainerd Dispatch (July 26, 2013), the county settled labor agreements with a two-year contract for 2013 and 2014, giving employees 2.5% wage increases at the beginning of each year, plus step increases mid-year of 3%. The countys contingency fund will pay for those raises. County financial officials reported trends and projected budget needs to the county during its annual planning meeting on July 26. (Monica Lundquist, Brainerd Dispatch, July 26) Cass County Engineer David Enblom told his board the new Wheelage Tax could bring in $250,000 per year for highway projects, but the board decided against implementing it. The 2011 budget contained expenditures of $48,482,697. 2012 budget had expenditures of $48,339,692. 2013 budget listed expenditures of $49,487,647. The county set a goal of no increase in its 2013 pay 2014 levy, but has not published its 2014 projected budget yet. Cass County has no bond debt. Cass County officials did not respond to our requests for interviews or information on their budget processes. Continued on page 11

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By Rin Porter One of the tasks Minnesotas counties face every summer is preparing a budget for the following year. All 87 Minnesota counties have to do this as part of the groundwork for deciding where to set their property tax preliminary levies by Sept. 15 of each year. Todd Countys five commissioners and auditor/treasurer are the officials charged with preparing the annual budget and levy figures. They are in the midst of the process now. In some counties, the county administrator, county coordinator, or finance officer either assist with or personally carry out the budgeting process, subject to county board approval. To give Todd County residents some perspective on what neighboring counties are dong, we contacted the four small counties that surround Todd and asked them about their budget processes. We did not include Otter Tail or Stearns County, because they have populations and acreage more than twice the size of Todd County, and we did not consider them fair comparisons. Here are the results of our comparisons of county budget processes. TODD COUNTY According to 2011 estimates from the Minnesota Legislature, Todd County has a population of 24,823 people. Todd County currently has neither a county administrator nor a county coordinator. Todd County has five commissioners and an auditor/treasurer who are preparing the 2014 budget and levy. This is the first time in five years these officials will carry out this work. From 2009 to 2012, a county administrator prepared the budget and the county board approved it. The administrator resigned at the end of December 2012. This summer, commissioners asked all county department and division heads to appear before the county board and present their requests for 2014 budget

cations. During this process, commissioners learned of serious needs for road construction and maintenance funds, building repair funds, and Sheriff s Department wage reserves to cover part-time deputies and jailer/dispatchers when full-time employees are on sick leave, vacation, or family medical leave. These funding needs, if met, would increase the countys expenditures by about a million dollars in 2014. However, county revenues will not increase enough to cover the increased expenditures. County roads in Todd County have not received any maintenance in more than five years. The County Engineer requested a large appropriation of county funds for the next several years to allow him to carry out road maintenance on county roads. Several county buildings need new roofs. Annex I and Annex II need new rooftop air conditioning units, the jail has plumbing leaks and needs a new water softener, the Main Street Government Center needs a new boiler, and employees have requested that lights be installed in the county parking lot. Todd County faces labor negotiations with its bargaining units this fall. The current labor contracts end on Dec. 31, 2013. Some neighboring counties are also scheduled for labor negotiations, and others have settled with their bargaining units for wage increases of 2% to 3% per year for the next two to three years. All counties face health insurance cost increases of about 5% in 2014. The county has outstanding bond debt that will cost $647,900 in 2014. The 2011 budget contained expenditures of $29,515,590, 2012s were $35,807,565, 2013s were $26,845,815, and projected 2014 expenditures are $27,686,928. CASS COUNTY According to 2011 Minnesota Legislature estimates, Cass

Browerville has one Grandma, Shari Tapp, who lives in Long Prairie.

Catholic Charities Central MN Foster Grandparent Program

New clothes are bought, backpacks are prepared, and buses are boarded as children begin the journey of a new school year. They are not alone in their preparations; their anticipation and excitement is shared by 200 Foster Grandparent senior volunteers across central Minnesota who will also be back serving in local schools, Head Starts, and other non-profit agencies. In Long Prairie there are seven Foster Grandparent volunteers: Margaret Becker, Neva Pesta, Ann Burger, Sandy Devens, Wanda Thompson, Mary Lu Smith (not pictured) and Beverly Heinze. Browerville has one Grandma, Shari Tapp, who lives in Long Prairie. Foster Grandparents often work with children to improve reading skills, increase their understanding of math concepts, and provide extra attention and support to those that are falling behind. These volunteers become role models for the students they mentor. Students are able to develop practical skills and a higher sense of self-worth. As we begin another school year, we are reminded once again of the investment Foster Grandparents make in youth in our community, said Stacy Lund, Foster Grandparent Program Director. Our volunteers serve as tutors, mentors and friends to kids who need them most. We are grateful for their efforts, and for the lives they change each school year. For information on the Foster Grandparent Program, or becoming a Foster Grandparent, please contact Pat Scherf, Area Supervisor at 320-293-0682 or email Pat at pscherf@ccstcloud.org.

In Long Prairie there are seven Foster Grandparent volunteers: Margaret Becker, Neva Pesta, Ann Burger, Sandy Devens, Wanda Thompson, Mary Lu Smith (not pictured) and Beverly Heinze.

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 2, Friday, September 6, 2013

Worlds oldest-known wild black bear dies at 39

The worlds oldest-known wild bear has died of old age in northern Minnesota at the age of 39 1/2, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Known to DNR researchers as Bear No. 56, the female American black bear was first captured and radio-collared in July 1981 by DNR scientists during the first summer of a longterm research project on bear population ecology. The bear was seven years old at the time and was accompanied by three female cubs. Bear No. 56 became a signifi-

cant animal in the DNR research project. During a 32-year study period, she and her many offspring provided an almost uninterrupted record of reproduction, survival, movements and, eventually, senescence (aging), within a single matriarchal lineage. Data from this bear and her off-

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spring have contributed significantly to the scientific literature on black bear biology. From 1981-1995, Bear No. 56 produced eight litters of cubs and successfully reared a remarkable 21 of the 22 cubs to 1 1/2 years of age. In 1997, at age 23, she uncharacteristically lost two of her three cubs before weaning. In 1999, at age 25, she bore and raised her last cub. In 2001, when she was next expected to give birth, researchers found her healthy in her den and

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producing milk but without cubs. Bear No. 56 outlived by 19 years all of the 360 other radiocollared black bears that DNR researchers have followed since 1981. She also outlived any radio-collared bear of any species in the world. Only a very few individual study bears have been reported to reach age 30. The second-oldest was a brown bear that lived to 34. Researchers suspect Bear No. 56s longevity probably is best attributed to a combination of factors, including the location of her home range in a forested area with few people or major roads; a more reticent nature than that of many bears, in terms of her avoidance of people; and luck. Getting this information about this bear has taken a lot of effort. This really attests to the value of a long-term study with a large sample of bears, said Dave Garshelis, DNR bear project leader. Had we not studied so many bears, we likely would not have encountered this intriguing outlier. It was not just documenting that she lived to be so old, but understanding how she was able to live to be so much older than other bears that made this incredibly interesting and useful. In the last few years of her life, Bear No. 56 began to visit some hunters baits, but hunters passed up shooting her, abiding by a DNR request that hunters not shoot collared bears. When last handled in March 2010, Bear No. 56 was a healthy weight but her teeth showed excessive wear and her eyes were clouding. Since then, her hearing and eyesight continued to deteriorate. Rarely observed through most of her life, Bear No. 56 had been observed by people during the past two summers with increasing frequency, foraging along trails and traveling dirt roads, likely because of the greater ease of travel than in the woods. Sometime in July, Bear No. 56 left her normal home range, as bears often do in late summer, to explore other areas for rich food sources on which to fatten for winter. After locating her radio signal several miles from her typical home area, DNR bear researcher Karen Noyce found her decomposed body in a secluded wooded location. From all indications, she died a quiet death, with no sign of struggle at the site and no evidence of broken bones or traumatic injury. This is the first bear in our study to die of old age, and there is something satisfying in that, said Noyce, who, along with Ken Soring, DNRs current enforcement director, conducted the first capture of Bear No. 56 as a rookie biologist in 1981. We knew she was getting feeble, Noyce said. It would have been sad to find her on the side of the road somewhere, hit by a car. After following her all these years, Im glad to know she died peacefully. It was a fitting death for a fine old bear.

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 3, Friday, September 6, 2013

Increase in adult suicides prompts call for greater prevention efforts

With the most recent available data showing Minnesota having the highest rate of suicide in more than a decade, state officials are highlighting the importance of knowing suicide warning signs and that mental illnesses are treatable and suicides preventable. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) released its most recent suicide data collected from 2011 death certificates. The data show a 13 percent increase in the number of suicides, from 606 in 2010 to 684 suicides in 2011. Minnesota's suicide rate of 12.4 per 100,000 residents in 2011 was the highest since the early 1990s. Most of the increase in numbers from 2010 to 2011 is from men in their middle years, with the greatest increase in numbers for those 55-59 years of age. The suicide rate among seniors over 65 also increased in 2011 from a rate of 10.2 to 13.8 per 100,000. Youth suicides under 25 years of age saw a small increase from 5 per 100,000 to 5.7 per 100,000. "This news clarifies that we must do more to connect with those who are suffering and contemplating suicide," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger. "This is especially important because we know suicides are preventable. Most people who consider suicide do not kill themselves. They find hope and help." Minnesota's prevention efforts are based on the evidence that suicides are preventable and mental illness is treatable. Key strategies include training health care professionals to identify individuals at risk for suicidal behavior, to assess them for risk and refer them to evidence-based treatment. Therapy and medications can help, and treating underlying conditions such as mental illness and substance abuse also reduces the risk of suicide. "Every person lost is a life filled with potential and possibility cut short," said Department of Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. "As the state agency responsible for statewide mental health treatment we need to make sure that help is available for people who need it. We made some good strides this past session by increasing mental health grants for children, increasing the number of mental health crisis teams and supporting innovative programs like Text4Life, but it's important we continue to focus on this critical issue." The 2011 figures follow Minnesota's long-term trends of steady suicide rates among youth and rising rates among adults 25 to 64. Minnesota's increase in adult suicides also mirrors a national trend. In May, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the annual, age-adjusted suicide rate among people aged 35 - 64 increased 28.4 percent, from 13.7 per 100,000 in 1999 to 17.6 per 100,000 in 2010. More details can be found online at http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm6217a1.htm. The CDC noted that while most suicide research and prevention efforts focus on youth and older adults, recent data underscore the need for prevention strategies serving adults aged 35 - 64. According to the CDC, prevention efforts are particularly important for baby boomers because of that generation's size, history of elevated suicide rates, and movement toward older adulthood, the period associated with the highest suicide rates. More research is needed to understand what is driving the increase among Minnesota adults. While some experts have suggested the recent economic downturn may be one contributing factor, suicide is complex. There are often multiple contributing factors such as mental illness, substance abuse, history of trauma and impulsive behavior. A persons' risk of suicide may increase with a painful loss, social isolation, feelings of hopelessness or being a burden to others, and not asking for help. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study released by MDH this past winter found that more than half of all Minnesotans have had traumatic experiences early in life, and research has shown traumatic experiences early in life are associated with a higher rate of suicide attempts. Based on Minnesota's data, public health leaders are pushing to update and increase prevention activities with specific emphasis on high-risk groups such as middle-aged adults. To make progress in this area, MDH, DHS,and other state agencies are partnering with SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices for Education) and other community-based agencies and advocacy groups to form the Minnesota Suicide Prevention Planning Task Force. Task force responsibilities will include updating the state's 2007 suicide prevention plan to incorporate new strategies targeting high-risk groups such as adults, as well as recommendations from the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. As the new plan is developed, the task force will leverage existing suicide prevention efforts such as the DHS mental health and crisis services, DHS and private crisis phone lines, the TXT4Life initiative, and

MDH and local community suicide prevention efforts. "Everyone in Minnesota has a role to play in preventing suicides," said SAVE Executive Director Dr. Dan Reidenberg. "By knowing the warning signs and what to do if you are concerned about someone, you can save a life." 11 Warning Signs of Suicide (the more a person exhibits, the greater the risk): 1. Talking about wanting to die. 2. Looking for a way to kill oneself.

3. Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose. 4. Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain. 5. Talking about being a burden to others. 6. Increasing the use of alcohol or other drugs. 7. Acting anxious, agitated or recklessly. 8. Sleeping too little or too much. 9. Withdrawing or feeling isolated. 10. Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

11. Displaying extreme mood swings. Tips for those concerned about a friend or loved one: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273TALK (8255). Do not leave the person alone. Remove firearms, alcohol, drugs or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt. Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional.

TODD COUNTY FARMERS UNION 32nd ANNUAL PICNIC

On behalf of the Todd County Farmers Union, we would like to thank our contributors for their wonderful donations to make the event a success. Special thanks to Doug Peterson, Farmers Union State President, Dairy Princesses Erin and Nikki Rausch. Thanks Dan Remer for the music and the city of Clarissa for the use of the park. Thanks to everyone who helped or came to the event, you all made it a wonderful event and well see you next year. Please support the businesses listed below. We apologize to anyone we may have omitted. Todd County Farmers Union officers, Alan Perish, President, Lynn Erickson, Vice President, Judy Buhl, Secretary, and Lonnie Iverson, Treasurer. County Commissioners Eagle Bend & Rose City Dahlman Abstract Lake Country Ins. Central Building Supply Randy Neumann and Rod Erickson B & W Transmission Dairy Queen Markus Hair Design Curves County Officers & Dept. Heads Calif-Minn Honey Farms Dan's Prize Motley Auto Repair Davids Art Gallery Cheryl Perish- Recorder Central Ag Eagle Bend Denny's Electric Mr. Ed's Restaurant Dustins Auto Repair Chuck Pelzer- Assessor Creative Floors Dingmann Funeral Home North Country Carpet Ernie's Food Center Chuck Rasmussen- Attorney Dick Baso Insurance Agency East-West Realty Schmitt Chiropractic Family Hair Care Karen Busch- Aud/Treas. Double Eagle Golf & Grill Ecowater Ten Hi Liquor First International Bank & Trust Darrell Larson FSA Eagle Bend Farm & Lumber Ed Jones The Silo Ice Cream Gary's Diesel Repair Loren Fellbaum-Public Works Eagle Bend Lions Everybody's Market Tri County Livestock Gilbys Orchard Pete Berscheit-Veterans Eagle Bend Liquor Fleet Supply Unity Bank Central Giovanni's Pizza Rick Utech-Todd County Eagle Bend Welding Freie's Septic Service Osakis Giza Plumbing & Heating Development Corp. Eagle Valley Custom Meats Gary Gilbert Financial A&W Hamburg's Auto Repair Entertainment Packages Eagle Valley Stylists Countryside Family Restaurant First National Bank Iron Hills Pawn Grand Casino- Mille Lacs Jerry's Auto Body Great Bear Taxidermy Hendricks Ins. Jackson Welding & Repair Jackpot Junction-Morton Klein Insurance Agency Hillig Auto Hensley Trucking Jim Soule Auto Shooting Star-Mahnomen Neil's Service Center Hillig Auction Service Jacobs Lefse Bakery Johnson Insurance Agency Prairie Edge Casino-Granite Falls Northland Dairy Hometown Furniture & Gifts Klukken Insurance Kuhn's Insurance Alexandria- Nelson Roger Berkness Sawmill Impact Technology NAPA L.M.H. Embroidery Al West Agency, Rose City Canopy Irish's Osakis Creamery Lefty's Bar Farmers Union Insurance Rose City Creamery Jim Woeste Auto Osakis Silo Repair Liquor Depot Cenex Shirley's Gas & Groceries J&R Auto Repair Pro Builders Local Legend Nelson Creamery Solids Enternet Sol KEYL/KXDL Radio Station Roy Hetland Funeral Home Longbella Drug Velde Law Firm Star Bank Kingsway Carpet Cleaning Paynesville Mid Central Federal Savings Bank Klimek Bros Well Drilling Tim Green Construction Laureen Irsfeld Headquarters AMPI Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union Midwest Machinery Tom Murch,CPA Les Levin Electric Randall & Cushing Midwest Eye Clinic Bertha-Hewitt Town & Country Bulk Fuel Long Drive In Bermel's Shoes Miller True Value B-H Transportation Vets Club Eagle Bend Long Prairie Auto Parts Northland Well Drilling Movie Palace & Tanning Bear Country Mall Grey Eagle Long Prairie Chiropractic Mike Denery OK Tire & Bait NAPA Diamond Tool & Engineering Beckys Salon Long Prairie Country Club Pams Yard Nelson Insurance Long Pine Bitz Marine Long Prairie Dental Clinic Randall Building Supply Nyhus Chevrolet Muddy River Motor Sports Browen Grocery Long Prairie Eye Clinic Randall Cafe Olson Feed Service Seven Oaks Central Minnesota Long Prairie Leader-Practical Printing Randall Liquor Pawnshop Steve Peterson, Ins. Federal Credit Union Long Prairie Livestock Randall State Bank Peter Brenny Dental Star Bank Double R Saloon Long Prairie Machinery Stone Hill Precision Polishing & Plating Browerville Eagle Auto Repair Inc. Long Prairie Oil Sauk Centre Shear Contact Aksamit Bus Service Eagle Fabricating Long Prairie Packing Arnie Service Center Snack Shop Asfeld Tax Service Grey Eagle Electric Long Prairie Plumbing Bill Board Ins Spot Cafe Al Hoelscher - Marty Host Agency, K & B Specialities Long Prairie Rental Centre Dairy Equipment Spur Self Service Country Insurance Kutter Agency Long Prairie Vet Clinic Centre Sports Staples Auto Sales Browerville Blade Style N Go Long Prairie VFW Country Store Staples Bakery Convenience Browerville Liquor The Rock Tavern Marlene Clark, Attorney Culligan Stapels Ceramics Browerville Motel & Knotty Pine Rahn's Oil and Propane Marty Jenkins Iron Dairyland Supply Staples Eye Clinic Browerville Vet's Club Shipwrex Mid Central Federal Savings Bank Dan Welle Southtown Staples Precision Metal Craft Inc Brown's Service Center Update Building Center MN National Agency Dans Cabinets Staples Vet Clinic Christ the King Church Village Cafe MN National Bank Eyes on Main Staples World Dan's Prize Little Falls MN Power and Light First State Bank Agency Super America Duane's Repair Ag Star Bank NAPA Fleet Supply Thrivent Financial Farmer's Co-op Feed Store Brandl Motors Northern Star Propane Flowers Tire One Tower Pizza Fine Wood Structures Central McGowan Now & Then Ceramics Fredericks Tire & Oil Twisted Sisters Horseshoe Septic Service Evergreen Equipment Onas Crafts Grey Stone Golf Williams Floral & Nursey Iten Funeral Home Farmers Union Ins. P.C. Handyman Hair & Body Connection Unity Bank Central Josh's Body Shop Minn. Power & Light Past Time Antiques Hardees Vintage Golf Kathy's Korner Kurls Royal Cafe Peters Churchwell Law Heartland Gallery Swanville Konetzkos Meat Market Simonson Lumber Phillips Repairable John Wiese Ford 12 Mile Tavern Knotty Pine Embroidery & Screen Printing Tri-City Paving Prairie Building Center License Bureau Debs Beauty Salon Land O' Lakes Long Prairie Prairie Lakes Coop Main Street Dairy Grandma's Cafe Little Wings Massage 8s Pub & Grill Prairie Woods Laundry MCDonalds Hollerman's Repair Marys Country Porch Ace Hardware Prairie Salon & Tanning Midwest Equipment Kamps Pro Fuel Noska Plumbing Ace Realty Radio Shack MN National Bank Loven's Auto Center Our Neck of the Woods Advantage Agency S.A. Design & Graphix MN Sawdust & Shaving Nielson Hardware Paul's Pawn & Bargain ALCO SAVE Foods Modern Farm Roto Molding Statema Backhoe American Family InsuranceSellnow Law Office Mortgages On Main-M.O.M Sonny Peterson Steve's Country Market Doug Schmidt Smoke-N-Motion Mustang Bar Swanville Insurance Tesoro Gas American Heritage Bank Snap Fitness Name to Remember Swanville Produce The Gallery American Legion 1 - Long Prairie Southside Auto Next Door Bar Westwind Tolifson Photography American Sportsman Club & Gun Subway North Side Body Shop Verndale & Aldrich Clarissa Auto Value Thrifty White Drug Off Broadway Aldrich Tractor Allen & Patsy Holmquist Bailey Accounting Thunder Lodge Red Carpet Bob's Barber Shop Battle Lake Outdoors Bargain Barn Todd County Vet Rite Now Tanning & Hair Bullseye Bar & Grill Central Ag Becker Excavating Total Tire & Gear Sauk Centre Herald Carrs Shell Station Clarissa Family Dental Bisels Auto Sale Hwy 71 Whole Food Co-op Saukinac Campground Star Bank Clarissa Drug Breitenfeldt Ins. Wolters Body Shop Schaeffer's Market Steves Auto Repair Clarissa Liquor Budget Host Motel Worms Ready-Mix Standard Iron Ted & Gens Cherrington Burger King Melrose The Peach Verndale Liquor Dans Salvage CNC Stearns Electiric Association The Wax Pot Wayne's Discount Donnas Country Side Daycare Casey's Gas Miltona Trisko Plumbing & Heating Wadena Eagle Valley Express Cathedral Press L&J Food & Liquor Winters Family Chiropractic AmericInn Farmhouse Cafe Central Bi-Products Lakes Gas Co. Staples Culligan Green Acres Greenhouse Central Home & Comfort Miltona Blacksmith 3M Staples Evergreen Equipment Hinzmann Gravel Central Minnesota Miltona Custom Meats & Sausage A.C.S. Fleet Supply Hobbit Hollow Federal Credit Union Miltona Liquor Auto License Bureau Greimans Independent News Herald Cenex R&R Ready Mix Auto Value Harvest Thyme Bistro Jon's Foods Charles Moberg, DVM The Dish Guy Burger King Hockerts Cleaners Line's Buliding Center Coborn's Uptown Style Station Mayer, Porter & Nelson, LTD Jolene Johannes-State Farm Ins. Marys Etc. Shop Countryside Plumbing & Heating Motley Bounds Financial Services KWAD Radio Michelle's Hair Care Creative Landscaping Bjerga Feed Borstad's Law Office Leaf River Ag Olson Truck Repair Custer Floral Bricks Travel Burrows Auto Body Lyles Shoe Store Todd County Vet Clinic Custom Transfer Countryside Card's Auto Todd-Wadena Electric Co-op Unity Bank East D&J Hair Stylists Four-Legged Lodge Caramel Apple Orchard Inn Wadena Hide & Fur
The Todd County Country Courier, Page 4, Friday, September 6, 2013

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 5, Friday, September 6, 2013

St. Gabriels Hospital recognized nationally for medical excellence in joint replacement and major orthopedic surgery
St. Gabriels Hospital has received national quality awards for medical excellence in Joint Replacement and Major Orthopedic Surgery from Comparion, a leading health care information services and consulting company. Comparion recognized St. Gabriels in its CareChex 2013 release of the Top Quality Hospitals in the U.S. St. Gabriels ranked in the Top 10% of all hospitals across the country for medical excellence in both Joint Replacement and Major Orthopedic Surgery. In Minnesota, St. Gabriels was rated 5th among hospitals for the two categories and, according to Comparion, thats quite an achievement for a small critical access hospital in Central Minnesota. Jessica Bentley, Regional Director at Comparion said, "CareChex allows the public to make informed decisions regarding the quality of medical care provided by hospitals. We are pleased to acknowledge that St. Gabriels is the top ranked of all eligible Critical Access Hospitals in Major Orthopedic Surgery and Joint Replacement in the United States and ranked 187 and 166 respectively out of all hospitals (including both general acute care and critical access hospitals). By achieving exceptionally high levels of performance across all relevant components of medical quality within Major Orthopedic Surgery and Joint Replacement, St. Gabriels sets a benchmark that other hospitals should seek to emulate." Relying on both public and proprietary measures of performance, CareChex compares the quality of hospital and physician care to national, state and local standards using a variety of process, outcome, and patient satisfaction measures to assign a composite quality score and rating. Unlike other rating systems, CareChex is an innovative medical quality rating system designed to assist hospitals in improving the quality of inpatient care and promote medical excellence to consumers, payers and employers. Chad Cooper, St. Gabriels Hospital president said, Our organization, including Little Falls Orthopedics (LFO), has long been committed to quality. It is one of the pillars of our organization. We are told that this is unique for a critical access hospital to be a recipient of this honor and, of course, we already know that an orthopedic practice the caliber of LFO in a community our size is quite rare. We are very proud of our ratings, which are based on an independent analysis of data from all the surveyed hospitals. He continued, They (the ratings) confirm that our entire surgical services team is providing outstanding service, from the staff in the operating rooms to our five orthopedic surgeonsDrs. Virgil Meyer, Philip Prosapio, David Jorgensen, Paul Johnson, and David Edgertonto our rehab and primary care providers, we are doing the right things at the right time and that excellence shows. Dr. Meyer added, We are extremely fortunate to have an exceptional staff at Little Falls Orthopedics, an outstanding OR (operating room) team and nursing staff at St. Gabriels Hospital, and very compassionate and skilled providers at Family Medical Center, all of which play essential roles in delivering high quality care to the patients we serve. I am very pleased that St. Gabriels Hospital has received this recognition and the part Little Falls Orthopedics has played in this achievement. St. Gabriels ratings are higher than 94.3% percent of early 3,500 surveyed hospitals across the country for major orthopedic surgery and higher than 95.1% of hospitals for joint replacement surgery. To learn more about the CareChex ratings for St. Gabriels Hospital, visit: HYPERLINK

"http://www.comparionanalytics.co m" www.comparionanalytics.com. About Comparion Comparion is a leading health care information services and consulting company dedicated to providing an extensive array of products and services designed to measure, manage, and monitor the clinical, financial, and market performance of healthcare organizations. Our vision is simple: to see health care organizations achieve and maintain superior performance. Our mission is as broad as necessary and as narrow as possible to assist clients in the interpretation, application, and implementation of findings which are catalysts for effecting meaningful change. This approach has proven to be the key to successful change management; whether in reducing clinical costs, improving quality, or redefining market strategy. For more information, go to ComparionAnalytics.com

Todd County Public Health

IMMUNIZATIONS NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY - FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE Vaccine available: Diphtheria Tetanus Pertussis (DTaP), Polio, MMR, Hib, Varicella, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, HPV, Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Tetanus Diphtheria, Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis (Tdap) Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care accepted. Card must be presented at time immunization is given. No one will be refused because of inability to pay. Call 320-533-4652 for more information. Tue. Sept. 10: Eagle Bend, Assemblies of God, 9 - noon, Mon. Sept. 23, Long Prairie IMM Clinic, Courthouse Annex, 9:30 - 12 noon & 1 - 4 pm CHILD AND TEEN CHECKUPS A well child clinic - ages 6 months to 21 years old. Fee based on family size and income for families who have insurance with high deductibles or do not have health

insurance. Minnesota Health Care Programs (Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care) accepted (card must be presented at time service is provided). No one will be refused because of inability to pay. Call for an appointment 320-533-4652. Tue. Sept. 10, Assemblies of God, Eagle Bend, By appointment Tue. Sept. 17, Wed. Sept. 18, Thur. Sept. 19 & Tue. Sept. 24, Courthouse Annex, By appointment Call Debra 320-533-4652 FAMILY PLANNING & HEALTH SERVICES Confidential services available: Complete physical exam, birth control methods, pregnancy testing, STI & HIV testing, pap smears, education and counseling. Clinic locations: Long Prairie, Menahga, Walker, Pine River and Wadena. Charges based on income and family size. No one will be refused services due to inability to pay. Medical Assistance and all other insurances accepted. For more information or an appointment call 1-877-275-6123. Thur. Sept. 26, Family Planning Clinic, CentraCare Clinic, Long Prairie, By appointment only, Call 1-877-275-6123 WIC - WOMAN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN WIC is a nutrition education and supplemental food program for pregnant or post partum women and infant and children ages birth to 5 years. The WIC Program must treat everyone the same. You can't be treated unfairly because of your race, color, national origin, age, sex or handicap. If you think you have been treated unfairly you should write to: Administrator, Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22303.

Tue. Sept. 10, Eagle Bend WIC, Assemblies of God, 9 - 12 Noon Mon. Sept. 16, Wed. Sept. 18, Long Prairie WIC, Main Street Government Center, 9 - 4 pm Call 1-800-953-4440 or 320-7324456 to see if you are eligible for WIC. PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING CLINICS Services available: Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar (Glucose), Cholesterol, Hearing, Hemoglobin, Oxygen Saturation Level, Weight/Body Fat Analysis, Health Education for medication or disease management, and Foot Care. Services are billable to Medical Assistance. Donations accepted. No one will be refused services because of inability to pay. Partially funded under contract with the Central MN Council on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act Program. Wed. Sept. 11, Village View Apartments, By appointment, Grey Eagle, Call Nona Walker 320-2852667 Thur. Sept. 12, Sunrose Courts, Browerville, By appointment, call Theresa Zirbes 320-594-0078 Fri. Sept. 13, Hillside Apartments, Browerville, By appointment, call Florence Rickbeil 320-594-6391 Tue. Sept. 17, Senior Center, By appointment, Bertha, Call Jo Fern 218-639-2080 Wed. Sept. 18, Heritage Place, By appointment, Clarissa, Call Irene Kotula 218-756-2212 Thur. Sept. 19, Greenleaf Apartments, By appointment, Eagle Bend, Call Lois Klucas 218738-5180 Thur. Sept. 12 & Sept. 26, Senior Center, By appointment, Long Prairie, Call Myrna Golnitz 320732-2282

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The Todd County Country Courier Page 6, Friday, September 6, 2013

SEPTEMBER IS.......
Self Improvement Month, Be Kind To Editors and Writers Month, International Square Dance Month, Cable TV Month, National Bed Check Month, National Chicken Month, National Courtesy Month, National Honey Month, National Mind Mapping Month, National Piano Month, National Rice Month, National Papaya Month, and Classical Music Month 1 Emma M. Nutt Day, the first woman telephone operator 2 Labor Day First Monday of month; National Beheading Day 3 Skyscraper Day 4 Newspaper Carrier Day 5 Be Late for Something Day; Cheese Pizza Day 6 Fight Procrastination; Read a Book Day 7 Neither Rain nor Snow Day 8 Grandparent's Day; Pardon Day; International Literacy Day; National Date Nut Bread Day; National Pet Memorial Day 9 Teddy Bear Day 10 Sewing Machine Day; Swap Ideas Day 11 9/11 Remembrance; Make Your Bed Day; No News is Good News Day 12 Chocolate Milk Shake Day; National Video Games Day 13 Blame Someone Else Day; Defy Superstition Day; Fortune Cookie Day; National Peanut Day; Positive Thinking Day; Uncle Sam Day - his image was first used in 1813 14 National Cream-Filled Donut Day 15 Make a Hat Day; Felt Hat Day - On this day, men traditionally put away their felt hats. 15 National Women's Friendship Day 16 Collect Rocks Day; Step Family Day; Mayflower Day; Mexican Independence Day; National Play Doh Day; Working Parents Day 17 National Apple Dumpling Day; Citizenship Day; Constitution Day 18 National Cheeseburger Day 19 International Talk Like A Pirate Day; National Butterscotch Pudding Day 20 National Punch Day; POW/MIA Recognition Day 21 International Peace Day; International Rabbit Day; Miniature Golf Day; World Gratitude Day 22 Business Women's Day; Elephant Appreciation Day 23 Checkers Day; Dog in Politics Day 24 National Cherries Jubilee Day; National Comic Book Day 26 Johnny Appleseed Day 27 Crush a Can Day; Native American Day 28 Ask a Stupid Question Day; National Good Neighbor Day 29 Confucius Day - Try your luck. Get a Fortune Cookie. 30 National Mud Pack Day

Where Life Begins... Again!

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Home In Every Way, Only Better
When individuals come to stay at Valley View Estates Assisted Living we want them to feel like theyre at home, experiencing only the best home has to offer. From nutritious, home cooked meals to regular socialization to the freedom to come and go as one pleases, our residents are treated with the respect and individualized attention they deserve. We feel everyone should be able to fully enjoy his or her sunset years and Valley View is the place to do it. Valley View Estates Assisted Living is more then a retirement home, it quickly becomes just a home. We accomplish this by allowing residents to personalize their apartments and to opt in or opt out of daily activities and socialization. All of this is a part of our total wellness plan, promoting the Mind, Body and Spirit.

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320-732-3516

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 7, Friday, September 6, 2013

Pete Berscheit, Veteran Service Officer 347 Central Ave Suite 3, Long Prairie, MN 56347 pete.berscheit@co.todd.mn.us 320-732-4419

September is Suicide Prevention Month

SUPPORT IS IMPORTANT DURING A TIME OF CRISIS SHOW VETERANS THEY MATTER September is Suicide Prevention Month, a chance for all of us to focus on the things that matter. When it comes to Veterans who face difficult challenges, were all in this together. You can get the conversation started today. Visit VeteransCrisisLine.net/ SPMToolkit to download free Suicide Prevention Month materials and help spread the word. Get involved. Attend one of these St. Cloud VA-hosted events: September 9 to 13: Informational displays in the VA Canteen. September 12, at 7 p.m., Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training is being offered at the St. Cloud Public Librarys Mississippi Room. Gatekeeper training programs offers participants the knowledge to respond to someone in crisis and can save lives. September 14, a 2K Walk/Run/Stroll is planned from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., on the VA campus in St. Cloud. The event is open to Veterans, families, and the public. Participants can complete the 2K anytime between 9 a.m. and noon. There is no pre-registration required, and participants should check-in at Bldg. 92. Please park in the two visitors parking lots located south of the Building 1 Main Entrance. September 20, from 2 to 3 p.m., dramatist Jennifer Tuder will present her story of survival in the VA Auditorium, located in Bldg. 8. This one-woman play powerfully describes Tuders experiences following the death of her father from suicide. For more information about these events please contact Mary Jo Pine at 320-252-1670 ext. 6719

St. Cloud VA to Provide Pertussis and Flu Vaccines

The St. Cloud VA Health Care System is joining with the Stearns-Benton Medical Societys Central Minnesota Community Immunization Campaign to help stop the spread of pertussis, or whooping cough. Pertussis vaccinations will be offered along with annual influenza vaccinations to all Veterans and employees this fall. In 2012, there were over 150 cases of pertussis in Stearns and Benton Counties, and 4,639 confirmed, probable, and suspect cases were reported to the Minnesota Department of Health. As of August 15, 595 confirmed or suspected cases of pertussis have been reported to MDH throughout Minnesota, and 48 cases have been reported in Stearns and Benton counties. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a disease caused by a bacteria that affects the lungs. Pertussis is spread through the air in droplets produced during coughing or sneezing. The best way to prevent pertussis is for all children to be fully vaccinated on time and for adolescents and adults to get a booster shot. MDH recommends statewide vaccination of children starting at age 10 years, regardless of whether the child is from an area of high incidence. This change is due to persistently high incidence of pertussis disease in children ages 9-12 years. MDH also recommends increased vaccination efforts for incompletely vaccinated children age 7 to 10 years, healthcare workers, pregnant women, persons in contact with infants, and adults in contact with children 10-12 years of age. Dr. Susan Markstrom, St. Cloud VA Chief of staff, says many Veterans question the need for pertussis vaccination. We simply ask them if they are around children and if they want the child to stay healthy,

Markstrom said. After hearing that, most simply roll up their sleeves. The St. Cloud VAs pertussis program began in March, when a screening and vaccination program for all patients was put into effect. Veterans can find out if they need vaccination at their next provider visit, or they can call their health care team. Flu and pertussis vaccination clinics for Veterans are planned for Oct. 2 and 3, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, in Bldg. 96 on the St. Cloud VA campus. Additional clinics are planned for Oct. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m., and Oct. 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, in the west lobby of the main entrance (Bldg. 1). Spouses, significant others, and caregivers of Veterans can also receive a seasonal flu shot at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center from 9 to 11 a.m., on Oct. 2 and 3. A fee of $29 is required, and may be paid in cash or billed to the individual s health insurance. Spouses, significant others, and caregivers should bring their health insurance card to the clinic. Additional flu and pertussis clinics are planned at the VA outpatient clinics in Alexandria, Brainerd, and Montevideo. At the Brainerd VA Clinic, flu and pertussis vaccinations will be given on Oct. 22, Oct. 25, from 10 a. m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. each day, and on Nov. 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. At the Montevideo VA Clinic, flu and pertussis vaccinations will be given on Sept. 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the Max J. Beilke VA Clinic in Alexandria, flu and pertussis vaccinations will be given on Oct. 10 and Oct. 23, from 12:30 to 4 p.m. each day All Veterans are encouraged to enroll in the VA health care system. For information on enrolling for VA health care, contact the St. Cloud VA HCS Eligibility Office at (320) 255-6340. Further updates to the flu shot program at the St. Cloud VA will be announced on the flu shot information line at (320) 2556444.

DNR recruiting process for new officers

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) expects to hire up to 18 conservation officers for an academy anticipated to start in April 2014. Applications open Aug. 26 and close Sept. 13. Conservation officers work to ensure public safety and compliance with state game and fish, recreational vehicle, and natural resource commercial operation laws. Applicants must have a valid Minnesota Peace Officer's License, or be eligible to be licensed by the Minnesota Peace Officers Standards and Training Board (POST) prior to the time conditional job offers are made, or complete basic police training and be certified as a full-time peace officer in a state or federal law enforcement agency with which Minnesota has reciprocity, and pass the P.O.S.T. Board reciprocity exam by the time conditional job offers are made. Candidates must pass the general written exam to be admitted to other portions of the exam/selection process. Other portions of the process will include oral interviews and completion of a comprehensive background investigation. Final job offers will be based on passing a medical evaluation, functional capacity exam and psychological evaluation. The written examination will tentatively be held Oct. 5 at the following locations Bemidji State University.; Cloquet Forestry Center; Central Lakes College, Brainerd; Minneapolis Convention Center. All communication will be handled electronically. Applicants must have an updated email address on their resume or they may not be contacted by the DNR. For more information on becoming a DNR conservation officer and

to apply for the position, visit the website at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/enforcement/jobs/hiring.html. A link near the bottom of the page will take applicants to the job posting. To ensure consideration for this position, both new and returning applicants need to apply directly to posting number 131743000001 by checking the apply for this job box at the bottom of the job announcement.

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Q: Minnesota has a number of Scientific and Natural Areas (SNAs). What exactly is an SNA and how does it differ from other publicly owned lands? A: Scientific and Natural Areas are special places where anyone can go to see examples of Minnesotas native plant communities and rare species habitats. There are nearly 160 sites scattered throughout Minnesotas prairie, coniferous and deciduous forest biomes. The programs mission is to protect and perpetuate, in an undisturbed natural state, those lands and waters embracing natural features of exceptional scientific and educational value. SNAs are open to the public for hiking, nature photography, bird watching, snowshoeing and other activities that don't disturb the natural conditions. Some SNAs are open to hunting. SNAs are intended to give people the opportunity to experience undisturbed nature. Thus, signs and parking lots may or may not exist at individual sites. Some sites have interpretive kiosks to help visitors identify key features and processes. These areas dont have restrooms or other facilities and most dont have maintained trails. To learn more about Minnesota's SNAs, visit: mndnr.gov/snas. - Kelly Randall, DNR SNA outreach coordinator

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Planning for an American dream retirement

FINANCIAL ENGINEER SHARES 4 SECRETS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW Its no wonder baby boomers worry about outliving their retirement savings. One out of four 65year-olds today can expect to live past 90, and if theyre married, one of every four will live even longer. With 10,000 boomers turning 65 every day, its a big worry for 26 percent of the U.S. population. The biggest concern for boomers is living too long, or getting sick, and running out of money, says Rao K. Garuda, (www.acaincorp.com), an engineer-turnedindependent financial planning advisor specializing in work with seniors, high net worth business owners, and professionals. The average 65-year-old retires today with $500,000 to $1 million in assets, and while that might sound like a lot to a 20-year-old, it isnt, Garuda says. Even if you plan to continue some kind of work post-retirement - as many people do whether because they must or because they enjoy it - its imperative to plan ahead for the day you cant work, he says. Equally important, people

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 8, Friday, September 6, 2013 employing everyone else he says. percent; since thats lower than the The more you can save the better, rate of inflation, theyre losing deserve the freedom to make choic- but that will vary at different money. In some cases, people transes about how theyll spend their stages of your life. At the mini- fer risk to someone else, for last 20 or 30 years, especially if mum, 10 percent is a good rule of instance, when they buy homeowners insurance. Finally, they choose theyve spent 45 years going to thumb. "Take advantage of tax-free savto manage their risk emotionally, work every day. Thats part of the ings. Taxes are the biggest expense psychologically and technically American dream, Garuda says. And you dont have to earn a for- anyone has. Besides federal, state, through asset allocation rebalanccity and death taxes there are 59 ing and other tools that allow you tune to save a fortune. Garuda shares four things other different ways your money is the amount of risk you re willing to everyone should know about taxed, Garuda says. If you save $1, assume while still providing opporUncle Sam will help you by waiting tunities for growth. preparing for retirement: "Create tax-free income. My "Save first, then spend. Most for his cut of that $1. With planpeople spend first, then try to save ning, you can put him on hold for favorite question to ask people is, whats left, Garuda says. The secret about two generations, he says. What have you done to create taxis to make saving first your priori- With tax-free compounding, a rela- free income? Garuda says. There ty. The people who save first will tively small amount of money are many ways to do this - Roth always be the people who are saved can yield huge returns years IRAs, life insurance, tax-free from now. bonds, annuities -- but most involve "Decide how youll manage risk. working with a knowledgeable There is risk in everything, and financial planner. An indexed life Garuda warns that those who sim- insurance policy is a great one; it ply choose to ignore it do so at their protects your money while offering own peril. Others choose to go a lot of benefits. But its like a broke safely - they avoid risk to Swiss army knife - there are a lot of such an extent, they lose money. A ways to use it, and most people good example is people putting all dont know how to use it properly, their savings in CDs that pay just 1 Garuda says.

Teen sustains non-life-threatening injuries in an apparent wolf bite

A 16-year-old boy was injured in an apparent wolf bite early Saturday morning, Aug. 24, near the lakeshore of the West Winnie Campground on Lake Winnibigoshish in north-central Minnesota, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The boy sustained multiple puncture wounds and a laceration to his head of about 11 centimeters long. The wolf ran into the woods after the boy kicked it. After receiving local first-aid, the boy was transported to a hospital in Bemidji. The wound required multiple staples to close, but was not lifethreatening. Officers from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, U.S. Forest Service and the DNR collected reports from the boy and the boys father, as well as others at the camp. Statements from other campers indicated there were other incidents at the U.S. Forest Service campground where an animal bit through tents, one resulting in the puncturing of an air mattress. Another camper indicated that he witnessed a wolf near his campsite with coloration and markings matching the description of the animal involved in the attack on the boy. This is an extremely rare incident and not normal wolf behavior, said Tom Provost, regional manager of the DNRs Enforcement Division. Because wolf bites or attacks on humans are so rare, they are poorly understood. These rare incidents have usually involved food-habituated wolves and have led to minor injuries, but no fatalities. Before this incident, a serious injury or fatal attack on a human had never been documented in Minnesota. There have been two wolf attack fatalities in North America in the last decade. One was in northern Canada and another was in Alaska. Enforcement officers from the U.S. Forest Service, Leech Lake and the DNR briefly located the animal matching the description in the wooded area adjacent to the campground, but were unable to immediately kill it. U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services was called for assistance in locating and capturing the wolf. On early Monday morning, an average-sized male wolf of about 75 pounds, matching the description of the wolf in the attack, was trapped and killed in the campground. The wolf is being taken to the University of Minnesota veterinary diagnostic lab to be tested for rabies. Also, the lab will collect samples for DNA analyses and complete a thorough medical examination to determine the health of the animal. Traps will be left in place for one more night to be sure another wolf is not present in the area. The Forest Service has closed the campground until further notice. WOLF SAFETY TIPS Always be alert in the outdoors. Wild animals biting or attacking humans is a rare occurrence but people should be aware of the possibility and know how to react. Animals are attracted to campgrounds due to food/cooking smells. It is important not to feed wild animals. Don't make homes or camps attractive to wild animals: Keep a clean camp; don't dispose of food by dumping into the campfire. Don't leave unwashed cooking utensils around your camp. Don't leave garbage unsecured. Don't cook food near your tent or sleeping area. Don't allow pets to freely roam away from your home or camp. Don't leave pet food or other food attractants out near your home or camp. Don't bury garbage, pack it out. In the rare event that you do have an encounter with an aggressive wolf: Don't run, but act aggressively, stepping toward the wolf and yelling or clapping your hands if it tries to approach. Do not turn your back toward an aggressive wolf, but continue to stare directly at it. If you are with a companion and more than one wolf is present place yourselves back to back and slowly move away from the wolves. Retreat slowly while facing the wolf and act aggressively. Stand your ground if a wolf attacks and fight with any means possible (use sticks, rocks, ski poles, fishing rods or whatever you can find). Use air horns or other noise makers. Use bear spray or firearms if necessary. Climb a tree if necessary, wolves cannot climb trees.

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The Todd County Country Courier, Page 9, Friday, September 6, 2013

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VIKING GAME SPECIAL

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September All Day Bar Menu (Order In Only)

Mon.- 1/3 Lb Burger Basket $5 Tue.- Uffda Taco $6 Wed.- 1/4 Broasted Chicken Basket $5 Thu.- B1G1 - 1/2 Off - Homemade Pizza Fri.- Spaghetti $6 Sat.- Burger Or BBQ Pork Sliders $5 Sun.- BOGO - 1/2 Off Appetizer (Special Menu) Supper Club Weekend Special 5-9 Fri.- Signature Rib Basket - 1 Lb. $5 / Prime Rib Sat.- Choose 2 Entrees For $30 (Special Menu) Surf & Turf / Prime Rib Sun.- Polish Aluski w/Homemade Bologna

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DNR QUESTION OF THE WEEK

Q: Minnesota has a number of Scientific and Natural Areas (SNAs). What exactly is an SNA and how does it differ from other publicly owned lands? A: Scientific and Natural Areas are special places where anyone can go to see examples of Minnesotas native plant communities and rare species habitats. There are nearly 160 sites scattered throughout Minnesotas prairie, coniferous and deciduous forest biomes. The programs mission is to protect and perpetuate, in an undisturbed natural state, those lands and waters embracing natural features of exceptional scientific and educational value. SNAs are open to the public for hiking, nature photography, bird watching, snowshoeing and other activities that don't disturb the natural conditions. Some SNAs are open to hunting. SNAs are intended to give people the opportunity to experience undisturbed nature. Thus, signs and parking

lots may or may not exist at individual sites. Some sites have interpretive kiosks to help visitors identify key features and processes. These areas dont have restrooms or other facilities and most dont have maintained trails. To learn more about Minnesota's SNAs, visit: mndnr.gov/snas. - Kelly Randall, DNR SNA outreach coordinator

Camp Ripley Open House

Camp Ripley will hold an open house on Sunday, Sept. 15, from 10 am - 3 pm, featuring: Classic car show, inflatable obstacle course, rock wall climbing, State Patrol display, Camp Ripley environmental display, Military Museum, HMMV, tank & helicopter display, food, beverages & more. Heros of the Homefront Ceremony will begin at 1 pm. All vets register in Building 1-2 from 12-12:30 pm. For more information call SSG Tim Krouth at 320-616-2714

The Browerville Blade Is Looking For A Student Photographer For The 2013-14 Browerville School Year!
Sporting Events School Events Activities Play Offs Some Light Writing
BE A PART OF YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER TEAM! Wirte a little bit about yourself and leave it in our box up at the school or email us at: staff@bladepublishing.net

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 10, Friday, September 6, 2013

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The Todd County Country Courier, Page 11, Friday, September 6, 2013

Budgets, continued
DOUGLAS COUNTY According to Minnesota Legislature 2011 estimates, Douglas County has a population of 36,240. Douglas County has a county coordinator. The auditor/treasurer prepares the countys proposed budget by requesting budget submissions from department heads and compiling the requests into a document. Douglas County has seven bargaining units. All contracts end on Dec. 31, 2013, but negotiations for new contracts have not yet begun. Douglas County has a courthouse remodeling project underway (Alexandria Echo, Aug. 1, 2013), and will levy a small sum to complete the project. The county has just completed remodeling of law enforcement, public health, and social service offices. Douglas County has a process by which the county stockpiles money to pay for maintenance projects. Auditor/Treasurer Char Rosenow wrote in a personal communication, We levy a certain dollar amount each year for those types of items. We started that a few years ago when I became Auditor/Treasurer. Currently we put $50,000 away for carpet, paint and any indoor issues each year and another $50,000 for outside issues such as roof repairs, sidewalk and parking lot repairs etc. The county implemented the new Wheelage Tax effective in January 2014 to help with road construction and maintenance needs. The 2011 budget contained expenditures of $47,310,676. The 2012 revised budget had expenditures of $42,782,945, and the 2013 budget listed expenditures at $44,307,217. The 2014 budget is in the process of being created. Douglas County has $4 million in bond debt. No new bonds are planned at this time. MORRISON COUNTY According to 2011 Minnesota Legislature estimates, Morrison County has a population of 33,312 people. Morrison County has a county administrator, and also has a finance officer (Steve Messerschmidt) who prepares the countys budget. The process began in May. Morrison County will provide a COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) increase of 2% for employees in 2014. There is a 5% cafeteria (benefits package) increase due in 2014 as well. The countys goal is a 0% levy increase for 2014, even with these scheduled wage and benefit increases. Department heads complete a Budget Analysis Summary Form, a Staffing Request Form if they wish to add staff, a Capital Outlay Request Detail form for large purchases, a Five-Year Capital Outlay Plan form, a PTO and Sick Bank Payout form, and a Budget Preparation Checklist. The county will hold budget hearings on four days at the end of August and beginning of September.

Morrison County has four bargaining units, three of which have settled contracts for 2013-2015 with a 2% wage

increase scheduled for 2014, and the fourth is the last year of a contract with a 2% wage increase due in 2014. Morrison Countys buildings are in good shape, according to Messerschmidt, with minimal ongoing maintenance needed. No building remodeling or new construction projects are scheduled for 2014. The road system in Morrison County is in good shape, according to Messerschmidt. The county board voted to implement the new County Wheelage Tax of $10 beginning Jan. 1, 2014, with the funds going toward drainage improvements on local roads. Morrison County has $4 million in bonding debt, and will not add any additional debt in 2014. The 2011 budget contained expenditures of $41,827,496. The revised 2012 budget listed expenditures of $34,817,130, and the 2013 budget had expenditures at $37,832,431. WADENA COUNTY According to 2011 Minnesota Legislature estimates, Wadena County has a population of 13,709 people. Wadena County has neither a county coordinator nor a county administrator. Wadena County has five commissioners and an auditor/treasurer who are preparing the 2014 budget. The auditor/treasurer and two of the commissioners are new employees, and the 2014 budget is the first one that they will help prepare. Department heads appeared before the county board in August and presented their budget requests for 2014. The board directed department heads to present budgets with 0 to 3% expense increases for 2014, or, if that was not possible, to explain the circumstances and provide documentation. Wadena County will have a 5% increase in health insurance costs. Wadena County had provisionally approved an insurance committee recommendation for a 10% decrease in health insurance premiums. Three of the four bargaining units have signed labor agreements for 2013-2015, and they will receive a 2% wage increase at the beginning of 2014. The fourth bargaining unit has not settled on its next contract, and will operate using the expired 2012 agreement until a new one is agreed upon. Binding arbitration is scheduled for September. Wadena County has just begun a major exterior repair and renovation of the courthouse including replacement of the roof and all the windows. The project is expected to be completed by the end of Dec. 2013. No new projects have been approved for 2014. Wadena County has been engaged in the replacement of its buildings at the county fair-

grounds that were destroyed by the June 16, 2010 tornado, and has had to pay construction costs and then be reimbursed by FEMA and the Minnesota Dept of Homeland Security. Some of the reimbursements have taken three to six months, which has put the countys cashflow in a less than optimal situation.

However, those projects are nearly completed. Wadena County needs money to repair its aging county road system. Commissioners took no votes on whether to implement the Wheelage Tax or the local sales tax. Wadena County has no bonding debt, but is consider-

ing bonding for road construction and maintenance. The 2011 budget contained expenditures of $18,766,898. In 2012, expenditures were $18,277,813. In 2013, projected expenditures are $20,964,507. The 2014 planned expenditures were incomplete as of Aug. 16.

School is Open Please Watch for Children & Drive Carefully

Huck Holst is pain free after hip replacement surgery

Huck Holst, Staples, plays with granddaughter Jaida weeks after his hip replacement surgery. Soreness you can deal with, pain is something completely different. Huck Holst of Staples had been dealing with hip soreness and pain for nearly two years when he decided to do something about it. I couldnt even stand or walk without it hurting, so I went to the VA to see what they could do because the pain was getting worse. Joint pain and damage can be caused by arthritis and other diseases, injury or normal wear and tear. All of these can cause joints to wear away, bone-onbone rubbing, stiffness and swelling. To help with this pain, your medical provider may recommend over the counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin, or things like physical therapy, exercise, braces or lifestyle changes. Prescription medications like Celebrex, as well as injections of corticosteroids have also been proven to decrease joint pain. If these treatment options dont work and your pain continues or worsens, the next alternative may be a joint replacement. I was in a lot of pain, and even after a cortisone shot, the pain was still there. Thats when we knew Id probably have to have something done, said Holst. I couldnt do any of the things I wanted or liked to do because it was just unbearable. Thats no way to go through life. The main reasons patients consider a joint replacement surgery are a decrease in their joint pain, improved mobility and in daily activities and an overall improvement in their quality of life. For people who choose to have a joint replacement surgery, the Joint Connection program at Lakewood Health System provides a complete medical history and physical, laboratory tests and diagnostics and comprehensive educational program prior to the surgery. The surgery is performed at Lakewood by board-certified orthopedic surgeons, who round back with the patient and their coach post-surgery to answer any questions and check on their progress. The surgery itself may take up to two hours, and recovery usually involves a three day in-patient stay and several weeks of outpatient exercises and therapies. Following the surgery, each patient is evaluated for physical and occupation therapies and receives both in-patient and outpatient physical therapy services. All this is overseen by a team in specialized joint replacement care. The team includes surgeons, physicians, physician assistants, nurses and physical and occupational therapists. I was feeling better almost immediately after my surgery, said Holst. Now I can do everything I wasnt able to do before, like swimming, riding the lawn mower, and playing with my grandkids, without any pain. I cant tell you how great a feeling that is. And its things like that you take for granted, but I never will again. To learn more about the Joint Connection program at Lakewood, contact Jennifer at 218-894-8578, or visit www.lakewoodhealthsystem.com.

The Todd County Country Courier, Page 12, Friday, September 6,

DNR urges boaters to stop power loading when loading and unloading boats at public water accesses
As summer progresses and lake water levels drop, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds boaters using public accesses to check ramp conditions before launching any boat and to refrain from power loading. Power loading is a phrase that describes using the motor thrust to load and unload a boat onto and off a trailer. The method is dangerous and can damage boats. Instead of power loading, boaters are encouraged to use a winch to load and unload a boat. Power loading creates blow holes and prop mounds when sediment, gravel and sometimes large rocks are blown beyond the ramp. Power loading can also cause damage to launch ramps that may not be visible from the surface of the water. Erosion under the concrete ramps and dock wheels can cause them to become uneven and, in some cases, fall into the blow holes. The practice can also lead to expensive boat motor and trailer repairs. Motors can incur damage if the boat or lower unit runs aground on the mound. At shallow accesses, boat trailer frames can get hung up when trailers are backed off the end of the concrete ramp into the blow outs. Smaller vehicles may be unable to get the trailer out. We recommend that before launching, boaters look beyond the ramp for shallow water caused by prop mounds and ensure the water is deep enough for the boat and motor, said Dave Schotzko, DNR northwest region Parks and Trails Division supervisor. This is especially important for those with larger boats and pontoons. The DNR Parks and Trails Division manages about 3,000 public boat accesses statewide. DNR crews stay busy in the summer maintaining public water accesses. The added tasks of removing prop mounds and repairing docks and ramps become expensive and time consuming, making it impossible to level every boat landing to accommodate all sizes of boats at every lake. These repairs also take funding and time away from efforts that could be spent on other improvements.

- THINK GREEN - KEEP TODD COUNTY CLEAN - REMODELING, NEW CONSTRUCTION OR JUST CLEANING TODD COUNTY TRANSFER STATION HAS THE
UP

RIGHT SIZE DEMOLITION CONTAINER TO FIT YOUR NEEDS. * WE DROP OFF AND PICK UP *

(as defined in Minnesota State Statutes)

(Price at Transfer Station)

Demolition

THE STAFF AT TODD COUNTY TRANSFER THANKS THE PUBLIC FOR THEIR SUPPORT IN HELPING KEEP TODD COUNTY CLEAN AND OUR OPERATION Sooner or later RUNNING SMOOTHLY it all comes to us
Todd County Transfer Station 2013 Product Price List

Lg. quantity (10 yds or more/landfill) per yard Demolition (Transfer Station) per yard Concrete (separate load/landfill) per yard Concrete (Transfer Station) per yard Demolition landfill gate fee

$8.00 $10.00 $4.00 $8.00 $5.00

Garbage

(Assorted material that is not specifically identified on this list) All garbage must be weighed with a minimum charge of $3.00 .05 $84 + 17% tax* $5.00 $5.00 $10.00 $5.00 $1.00 $5.00

Garbage price per lb. Large quantity (must be weighed before unloading) price per ton

Demolition Containers
Rent per day Mileage per mile Todd Co. min. charge per trip Todd Co. max. charge per trip $5.00 $2.50 $50.00 $150.00

Furniture
(Including couches, chairs, mattress, box springs)

Brown Goods (VCRs, Stereos, etc.....)

Computer monitor/TVs Ballast Fluorescent bulbs (over & under 4 ft) Mercury Vapor

Free Items

Brush, leaves, grass clippings, auto batteries & scrap iron

White Goods
(Large appliances including microwaves) $7.00 $2.00 $3.00 $5.00 $150.00 $250.00

Tires

HHW-Household Hazardous Waste

May - September
HHW - BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!

- FREE -

(Prices double if tires are on the rim) Passenger Pickup (large 4 ply) Truck (20 or larger diameter) Large quantity (car, pickup) per ton Large quantity (tractor & industrial) per ton *17% State Solid Waste

Todd County Transfer Station * 320-594-2210

1 mile South of Browerville on Hwy. 71

Were not just the dump anymore! Your 1 Stop Shop for All Your Disposal Needs!

Professional & Business Directory

Have your ad be seen by over 30,000 readers monthly! Call 320-594-2911 for more information.

Building & Remodeling

Noska Plumbing & Heating
Complete Sales & Service
Furnaces Water Pumps Water Softeners Air Conditioners

Farm Supply

Healthcare

FEED - SEED - FERTILIZER

320-594-6366 Doug Noska Browerville

Free Estimates
Master Plumbers #PM003101 Well Contractors

Pr o Ag Ser vice
Clarissa (218) 756-2112 Eagle Bend (218) 738 2552

Drapery Design
The latest window fashions Ardis Ebnet, Designer/Consultant

Veterinary
Todd County Veterinary Clinic
Large & Small Animals
Browerville & Clarissa 218-756-2226 Long Prairie 320-732-6922 Eagle Bend 218-738-3462

(320) 732-3739
24901 325th Ave. Long Prairie, MN 56347

Blinds Shades Drapery Valances

Noska Construction LLC

Drywall Tiling Taping Framing Roofing Lic # BC634520

Dr. J.J. Sauer Dr. J.R. Pieper Dr. C.W. Hanvy

WANTED TO BUY
Standing timber, all species. Specialize in selective harvesting. We also do clear cuts. Baums Custom Logging & Firewood Sales, Burtrum, MN. Office: 320-285-3565 cell: 320-815-1863
tf

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS AD HERE Call Stacey at 320-594-2911

Technology
COUNTRY COMPUTERS The Solutions People
SALES - PARTS - SERVICE
Business Computer Systems
33681 Co. 1 218-738-2842

Grant Noska
27476 County 26

Browerville, MN 56438

320-630-3638

Todd County Country Courier, Page 13 Friday, September 6, 2013

Jump On Over To The Thread Shed For Deals So Good Its Playful!

FOR SALE
Central Todd County Care Center - Clarissa, MN Job Opening Dietary Part time Evening Aide Hours 4:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Application available at Care Center Business Office If you have questions (218)-756-3636 Ext. 17 leave voice mail and we will get back to you. Central Todd County Care Center is an equal opportunity employer.
ag29-s5c

Central Todd County Care Center - Clarissa, MN Job Opening Dietary Part time Evening Cook Hours 11 am to 7:30 pm
Application available at Care Center Business Office If you have questions (218)-756-3636 Ext. 17 leave voice mail and we will get back to you. Central Todd County Care Center is an equal opportunity employer.
ag29-s5c

For Sale at Lovens Gifts - Crafts - Glassware - Tools - Furniture - Fishing Flys - Purses - Gloves - Bedding - Dolls - Etc. Behind Post Office in Browerville. Call 1-320-594-2464 Look for tf Open sign.

Todd County Country Courier, Page 14 Friday, September 6, 2013

GIZA
PLUMBING & HEATING
EST. 1934

Heating & Cooling Systems Sheetmetal Work Water Pumps Plumbing Supplies & Fixtures For The Do-it-Yourselfer MARV GIZA GREG GIZA 061803PM 062674PM 218-894-2284 after hours: 218-894-1127

Check us out online www.

bladepublishing.net

Central Minnesota Electric, Inc.

Clothing for Everyone, Household Items, Tools, Toys & Misc.

Backhoe Service, LLC

Free Estimates

Statema

THREAD SHEDS
Browerville
Thread Shed I 320-594-6456

Complete Professional Wiring Service

Staples
Thread Shed II 218-895-5023

Sauk Centre
Thread Shed III 320-352-2829

MPCA Certified Septic Systems

Daves Septic Service

SEPTIC & HOLDING TANK SERVICE PORTABLE TOILET RENTAL Hewitt: 218-924-4659 Cell: 218-640-2339 David G. Rokes - Owner

John Wippler & Al Poser The Af fordable Professionals 320-632-3946 320-749-2449

From design to installation Compliance inspections Licensed-Bonded-Insured

Site Prep Basements Waterlines Driveways Landscaping Black Dirt Gravel Fill Dirt Clearing & Grading Ditch Cleaning Snow Plowing-Commercial & Residential Construction & Abandonment of Manure Pits Andy Statema 320-594-2912

Stop by one of the 3 Thread Sheds Today!

Dahlman Abstract Company

Incorporated since 1958

Twardowski Excavating, Inc.

From Design to Installation Dozer Work Trackhoe Excavator Work Dump Truck Hauling Bobcat Work Demolition Driveways Basements SEPTIC Black Dirt

Chad Twardowski
Long Prairie Cell: 320-760-1127
Home: 320-732-3809
Licensed Bonded Insured FREE Estimates 24 Hour Emergency Service

SERVING TODD COUNTY WITH COMPLETE ABSTRACTING SERVICES

320-732-3997
Fax: 320-732-6162 332 Central Ave Long Prairie
( Located next to the Post Office )

S YSTEMS

Toll Free 888-594-6347

*Tune-Ups *Custom Exhaust *A/C Service *Brakes *Coolant Flush *Computer *Diagnostics *Alignment

532 Hwy 71 N., Eagle Bend -

218-738-2913

HAVE YOUR AD SEEN BY THOUSANDS

CALL STACEY 320-594-2911 TO PLACE YOUR AD IN THE TODD COUNTY COUNTRY COURIER

Todd County Country Courier, Page 15 Friday, September 6, 2013

Less than 1 percent of drunk drivers reoffend after using ignition interlock
MORE THAN 400 ARRESTED FOR DWI DURING FIRST WEEKEND OF STATEWIDE DWI CRACKDOWN Less than 1 percent of the 10,664 DWI offenders in Minnesota who have used or are currently using ignition interlock have reoffended since the programs statewide inception in July 2011, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety. To date, 3,283 people have graduated from the interlock programmeaning, they used the device for the required period without reoffending. There are currently 7,381 people using ignition interlock in Minnesota. Ignition interlock devices are connected to a vehicles starter. The only way a driver can start the vehicle is by blowing into the device and measuring an alcohol content under 0.02. If the alcohol content is at 0.02 or above, the car will not start and the information will be recorded and later transmitted to the monitoring authority. Interlock devices are proving to be effective tools that are keeping the vast majority of past DWI offenders from repeating their mistakes, says Donna Berger, Office of Traffic Safety director. In turn, this technology is cutting down on impaired driving and creating a safer driving environment for the traveling public. As the interlock program continues to limit the amount of DWI reoffenders on Minnesota roads, law enforcement around the state continue a nationwide DWI enforcement crackdown scheduled to run through Labor Day. Law enforcement statewide arrested 425 for DWI during the first weekend of activity (Aug. 16-18), including several at or above an alcoholconcentration level of 0.16, making them eligible for interlock. WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR INTERLOCK Repeat DWI offenders, as well as first-time offenders arrested at 0.16 and above alcohol-concentration level must use interlock in order to regain legal driving privileges, or face at least one year without a drivers license. Offenders with three or more offenses are required to install interlock and use for three to six years, or they will never regain driving privileges. Based on historical data, officials expect around 21,000 DWI offenders to be eligible for interlock sanctions during a given year. Cost of an interlock is $3$4 per day. There are 32 statesincluding Minnesotathat use ignition interlock for first-time DWI offenders. INTERLOCK FEATURES Rolling re-tests require driver to provide a breath sample three to five minutes after starting the vehicle, and randomly thereafter. In-car cameras record all breath tests. Video and test results are available for DPS to monitor. Specific hum or suck back patterns required when providing breath sample. Users are required to have the interlock calibrated monthly by a service provider. Service providers will run reports that indicate how many times the vehicle started, number of rolling re-tests, and any test fails (an alcohol-concentration limit of 0.02 or above). Service providers will send reports to DPS for review and to take appropriate action or extend sanctions. For more information on the ignition interlock program, visit www.MinnesotaIgnitionInterloc k.org.

218-894-2871 - or 218-820-8227

PAUL DRAKE TREE SERVICE

COMPLETE & PROFESSIONAL
Topping Trimming Tree & Stump Removal Deer Plots & Trails Custom Lot Clearing & Brushing
INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

Bucket Truck

Dr. Peter Brenny

Dentist
218-894-2755
Emergency and new patients welcome.

And Tree Service

Stump Grinding with Portable Grinder Duane Johnson Swanville

320-547-2408 320-760-0907
Free Estimates Experienced Reasonable Rates Insured

If youre looking to buy, stop in and see one of our sales agents. We have many listings... Ones sure to have your name on it!
Arlen Muenzhuber ~ Jamie Flan ~ Mona LaDue ~ Brandon Kelly

www.east-westrealty.com Long Prairie ~ 320-732-2222

Bill Nelson, Broker

Vanguard Insurance Services,Inc.

Auto Home Life Health Farm Business
Independent Agent Joe Pesta Agency

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS AD HERE

529 Lake St. S. P.O. Box 28, Long Prairie, MN 56347

320-732-6629 Fax: 320-732-1907

Call Stacey at 320-594-2911

Where Life Begins...Again

Valley View Estates

Locally Owned Family Operated

A place to live... A place to share... A place to call home... Call today so we can send you more information, or arrange a tour!
320-732-3516 1-888-563-2700 www.valleyviewassistedliving.com

Assisted Living & Memory Care

Celebrating National Assisted Living Week
Sunday, September 8-Saturday, September 14, 2013

Valley View Estates

1104 4th Ave NE, Long Prairie, MN

Homemade Happiness
Sunday, Sept. 8th
Public Invited 1-3pm Featuring Displays Of Residents Handiwork Homemade Pie Social Concertina Music by Tony Borghijenck

The General Store

Areas Largest Selection of Hunting & Fishing Equipment
204 Central Ave Osakis

Many More Activities Planned Throughout The Entire Week

Prizes Live Music Homemade Raised Doughnuts Cash Bingo Pamper Party Homemade Cookie Baking & Samples Wheel Of Fortune Pictionary Dart Contest (High Score)

Saturday Sept. 14th

Public Invited 2 pm Homemade Ice Cream Social Music by Sonny Barthel
Home In Every Way, Only Better
When individuals come to stay at Valley View Estates Assisted Living we want them to feel like theyre at home, experiencing only the best home has to offer. From nutritious, home cooked meals to regular socialization to the freedom to come and go as one pleases, our residents are treated with the respect and individualized attention they deserve. We feel everyone should be able to fully enjoy his or her sunset years and Valley View is the place to do it. Valley View Estates Assisted Living is more then a retirement home, it quickly becomes just a home. We accomplish this by allowing residents to personalize their apartments and to opt in or opt out of daily activities and socialization.

320-859-5159
Mon-Thurs, 8AM-6 PM, Fri 8AM-8PM, Sat 8AM-6PM, Sun 8AM-2PM

Sellnow Law Office

Generations Of Service

Thomas H. Sellnow, Attorney Jason R. Sellnow, Attorney

Primary Office - Long Prairie 229 Central Ave. Long Prairie T: 320-732-1919 TOLL FREE - 877-297-1125 Staples Office 133 N 4th St Staples T: 218-894-4618

1104 - 4th Ave. NE Long Prairie, MN 56347

www.valleyviewassistedliving.com

320-732-3516

We Would Love For The Community To Come Join In On The Fun

SERVING CENTRAL MN

CENTRAL TODD COUNTY CARE CENTER

Offering a full range of therapy services Rehabilitative Therapies

HORSESHOE

G. Marlene Clark, P.A.

Attorneys at Law
REPAIR & SALES

MBC Drainage LLC

43965 450th St, Sauk Centre
Farm Drainage Specialists Ditching Tiling Excavating Manure Pits Dave Bailey, Manager

SEPTIC SERVICE
Por tab le Toilet Rentals

313 1st St. NE, Little Falls 888-398-8998 320-616-2122

Our customers talk...

Goldsmith Jewelers is designed on the foundation of service, quality merchandise, expert repair and trust. We also Buy Gold and Diamonds
Terry Tar Smith Master Jeweler And Master Diamond Setter

Out-Patient Rehab Services Home Care Skilled Nursing Facility Assisted Living
Hwy 71 Clarissa, MN 218-756-3636

320-352-6961
Karl Larson, 320-808-8012 Jason Marthaler, 320-249-6062 Howard Marthaler, 320-250-2984

Browerville, MN

Were #1 in the #2 Business!

800-282 2895 320-594-2895

Mediation Estate Planning/Probate Real Estate/Township Law Divorce/Child Support Custody/Adoption 25 3rd Street South Long Prairie, MN 56347 Office: 320-732-2918 Fax: 320-732-2586

Combined work experience over 90 years!

www.goldsmithlf.com

Join Our Business Profile Section And Share Your Business With Up To 10,000 Readers For Only $45 A Month! Contact Stacey For Details At: 320-594-2911 or staff@bladepublishing.net