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WEDNESDAY - MAY 22, 2013

BIGGEST TAXPAYER IN POLK COUNTY, ENBRIDGE, LOOKING AT ADDING ANOTHER PIPELINE

The biggest taxpayer in Polk County is Enbridge Pipeline and they are planning another pipeline across the county to Clearbrook, according to Katie Haarsager, community relations advisor for Enbridge. Haarsager spoke with the Polk County Commissioners on Tuesday afternoon and answered questions about the project. They are planning a pipeline from Tioga, North Dakota to Clearbrook and then onto Superior, Wisconsin. “It will carry light Bakken crude from Western, North Dakota, and will be about 560 miles with a 24 inch pipeline adding an additional 225,000 barrels a day of pipeline capacity,” said Haarsager. The pipeline will take trucks off the road, reduce the reliance on the rail delivery and get it back on an efficient delivery to refineries on the gulf coast, east coast, Oklahoma and it will be delivered across the country.”

Haarsager said they hope to follow the present pipeline through Polk County.
“We would like to stay in our corridor as close as we can, but due to grain elevators, flooding and issues like that we might have to deviate so we are working with the counties and local officials and environmental permitting,” said Haarsager. “We hope to get started on construction in 2014 and run through 2015 with start up in 2016. We have a lot of work to do with permitting and surveying before construction can start.” Enbridge will hold public meetings and open houses across the state for everyone who has questions and meet the people working on the project.”
“Our project is an effort to get the trucks off the road in North Dakota and bring a little energy dependence back to the United States,” said Haarsager. “It is about a $2.5 billion investment by Enbridge in your backyard in North Dakota and Minnesota.”

In 2013 Enbridge pipeline paid $3,885,336.00 in property taxes in Polk County. Enbridge is taking the state of Minnesota to tax court in a appeal regarding the valuation of the property in an effort to lower their taxes. The state of Minnesota does the assessing of their property which was raised over 12 percent in the last year. The Commissioner of Revenue has been served and the attorney general will defend the lawsuit on behalf of the Commissioner of Revenue.
In 2012 Enbridge paid $1,904,544.00 in property taxes in Polk County.
Enbridge employs approximately 6,500 people, primarily in Canada and the United States with headquarters in Calgary, Alberta and Houston, Texas. The company also deals with natural gas systems, solar projects, gas distribution, wind assets, trucking and rail headquarters storage and geothermal assets. For more information on Enbridge visit the website at www.enbridgeUS.com. 

POLK COUNTY COMMISSIONERS HAPPY WITH NO SALES TAX ON COUNTY PURCHASES AND LOOKING TO SELL TWO LOTS

Polk County Commissioners were pleased with actions by the Minnesota Legislature which will help the county financially. County Administrator Chuck Whiting said program aids will be better and no sales tax is helpful. “We are expecting a state wide increase in program aid and a change in sales tax will happen as cities and counties have had to pay sales tax on purchases and that has been removed as it has been an aggravation for many years,” said Whiting. “That saves taxpayers money. We are also looking at levy limits for next year which is a fair trade off. We are going to spend some time studying the legislation to see what it exactly means for the county.”

Polk County Commissioners made a decision on Tuesday about the future of the property which once had the Professional Building which has been torn down making the property ready for sale. County Board Chairman Craig Buness said there are two lots for sale. “We are going to sell it as one lot with a minimum price of $50,000 with ten percent down on the day of the sale with 30 days to pay for it,” said Buness. “There will be publicity about a the sale in June.” Final details are being made for the sale. Anyone interested can contact Rob Wagner, Assessment Director or County Administrator Chuck Whiting at the Government Center.

The commissioners appointed Paula Waters to serve another term on the welfare board. Jan Skyberg, Buildings and Grounds supervisor submitted his retirement letter effective June 14. Sebastian Sullivan was hired as the Information Technology Director. Polk County Public Health renewed their contract with UMC for medical services for the students. The state incentive grant for the second year is up for approval in the amount of $27,321.00.

The commissioners approved a interim use permit for Clifford and Richard Nelson in Esther Township to remove up to 10,000 cubic yards of clay from their 160 acres in section 25 of Esther Township. They have had permits for the same work in 2008 and 2011.
Arlet Phillips of Huntsville Township was selected to serve on the planning commission representing the townships to replace Delores Myerchin.

CONGRESSMAN COLLIN PETERSON TO SPEAK AT THE CROOKSTON HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION

Congressman Collin Peterson has accepted an invitation to speak at the Crookston High School graduation on Friday, May 24 at 7:00 p.m. at Lysaker Gymnasium on the University of Minnesota-Crookston campus. He will join Jon Bittner, a retiring social studies teacher, who was chosen by the students to speak. Students speaking are Cyrina Ostgaard and Emma Dufault. Dual student speakers are Lilli Denison and Dylan Wavra, and Erica Samuelson and Isaac Loegering.
101 students will graduate from Crookston High School and receive their diplomas from school board members Tim Dufault and Dave Davidson who have daughters graduating.

FORMER RED LAKE FALLS CITY ADMINISTRATOR ALLEN DUCHARME FACES MULTIPLE CHARGES

Arraignment of the former Red Lake Falls City Administrator, Allen Lee Ducharme, is set for June 10 at the Red Lake County Courthouse.  On Septemeber 12, 2012 the Red Lake County Sheriff's Office received a complaint about possible theft and fiscal mismanagement at Red Lake Falls City Hall.  The complaint was filed by an attorney from the Minnesota League of Cities who represents the City of Red Lake Falls.
A total of three complaints have been filed with the Red Lake County Clerk of Court.  Two more criminal complaints are expected to be filed by the end of the week.

The first complaint alleges that Ducharme used a city debit card to purchase four large novelty trikes, fuel and misc. supplies for a post prom party.  The expenses were not approved by the Red Lake Falls City Council.  Total cost was $2,394.70.  Charges from the incident are Theft of Public Funds (felony), Theft of Funds (felony), Misconduct of a Public Officer or Employee (Gross Misdemeanor), and Misconduct of a Public Officer or Employee.

The second complaint alleges that Ducharme issued four separate checks to the City of Red Lake Falls in 2010.  The checks were known to be NSF.  Ducharme took petty cash and replaced the cash with the NSF checks.  The NSF checks were returned to Ducharme at Red Lake Falls City Hall.  Ducharme did not forward the checks to the secretary for collections and the checks were never paid.  Total amount of the four checks was $350.  Charges stemming from the complaint are four counts of Theft of Public Funds (felony).

The third complaint alleges that during the period of May 20 through September 2012 Ducharme made a total of 180 transactions with the city debit card.  During this time Ducharme did not have approval from the Red Lake Falls City Council to have the card or make purchases.  Ducharme never informed the council of the transaction and never presented the transactions to the council for approval as required by city policy. The charges stemming from the complaint are two counts of Misconduct of a Public Officer or Employee (Gross Misdemeanor).

CROOKSTON AQUATICS BOOSTERS TO HOLD THEIR SECOND ANNUAL MEETING

The Crookston Aquatics Boosters, Inc., (CAB), is holding its second annual meeting on May 28 from 6-7:30 p.m., at Riverview, in meeting room #1.  All persons interested in the pool, programming options and water sports are invited to attend to help identify priorities for the coming year.
CAB has accomplished much in its first year including:  receiving its certificate of incorporation; sponsoring Kate MacGregor at Zones as a competitive swimmer; purchasing a digital clock for the Crookston Crocodiles and Pirate Swim Teams; planning the 1^st Annual Crookston Triathlon scheduled for August 10, 2013 (www.visitcrookston.com/triathlon);  assisting with the Crookston Community Pool’s Grand Reopening (planned for June 6, 2013 with details to follow), and, most recently, its designation as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.

The agenda for the meeting includes:
-Election of officers
-Pool remodeling updates
-Grand reopening plans
-Triathlon updates
-Planning and goal setting for 2013-2014.

Current Officers of the Executive Board include:  Aaron Pry, President; William Enlow, 1^st Vice-President; Ken Stromberg 2^nd Vice-President; Dan Erdman, Treasurer and Ross Matlack, Secretary.
CAB values educational opportunities, community outreach, evolving facility and programs and supporting the Crookston Community Pool’s long-term success.  CAB’s priorities include:  supporting and enhancing youth and aquatic activities and water safety; communicating with the public about activities and opportunities; developing and maintaining key relationships with stakeholders; working with the Crookston Public School District in planning, updating and participating in facility and program implementation opportunities; actively pursuing and providing financial and volunteer support and; establishing a sound organization that benefits the people of Crookston and surrounding communities.
Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend the annual meeting and bring forward their ideas.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DEB KIEL TO HOST TOWN HALL MEETINGS NEXT WEEK

State Representative Deb Kiel, (R-Crookston), invites area residents to join her at an East Grand Forks town hall meeting on Tuesday, May 28, and a Crookston town hall meeting on Thursday, May 30, to discuss an overview of the 2013 legislative session and how the new  budget will affect families in northwestern Minnesota.

MEETING SCHEDULE
 
East Grand Forks
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
5:00 p.m.
East Grand Forks Library
422 Fourth St. N.W. 
East Grand Forks, MN  56721

Crookston
Thursday, May 30, 2013
12:00 p.m.
Irishman's Shanty (Back Room)
501 S. Main St.
Crookston, MN 56716

For more information, please contact Rep. Kiel at 651-296-5091 or by email at rep.deb.kiel@house.mn. State Rep. Deb Kiel serves District 1B, which includes the counties of Polk, Pennington and Red Lake.

OUR SAVIOR'S LUTHERAN SCHOOL STUDENTS FINISH FIRST IN REGIONAL TRACK MEET

Our Savior's Lutheran School participated in a track meet in Perham on Friday. Michael Gudvangen, Mackenzie Fuller, Tanner Janorschke, and Darius Narvaez took home first place in the 7th & 8th Grade Relay.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR FROM STATE SENATOR LEROY STUMPF

The following is a letter to the editor from State Senator LeRoy Stumpf (D-Plummer).

Session Ends – Minnesota Families, Farmers and Business Win

Today the gavel will fall and the 2013 Legislative session will come to a close. We set out at the start of the 2013 session with the goal of achieving lasting progress for all Minnesota families and businesses after a decade of deficits and deep budget cuts. Today, we adjourned on time and delivered a fair and structurally-balanced budget to put the state’s fiscal house in order and provide critical funding for education, job creation and property tax relief. This is positive progress.
It is important to remember that we came into the session with $627 million deficit along with owing our schools more than $800 million. I think Minnesota families were tired of budget deficit after budget deficits with solutions relying on one-time money, shifts and a failure to honestly address the state’s underlying fiscal problems. Unfortunately, the end result was more than ten years of deficits coupled with dramatic increase in tuition, large property tax increases and economic insecurity.
I think we’ve made some real progress in reversing that trend. We passed a more stable budget that includes a balance of some budget cuts, cost-saving reforms and new revenues to invest in our priorities. This is a structurally-balanced budget free of accounting shifts and gimmicks and resolves the $627 million budget shortfall for this year. It also balances the budget through 2017 and will put Minnesota on course for long-term fiscal stability
We also made some important investments in areas that most Minnesotans care about, including a total of $735 million investment in education to give every Minnesota student access to a world-class education. We fund free all-day kindergarten statewide, enact tuition freezes and provide more financial aid to make college more affordable. In addition, this year’s budget ensures the state is on track to pay back Minnesota schools on time.
We passed a jobs package that invested $86.5 million in our workforce through proven job-creating initiatives—such as the Minnesota Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund.  These economic development tools will help grow, retain and diversify job opportunities in communities across the state.
One of the most important investments we made for Northern Minnesota is $441 million in property tax reductions. This will bring property tax relief to homeowners, farmers, business owners and renters. We also restore aid to cities, counties and townships where most government services are delivered.  A small but important part of this is to remove the sales tax that local governments have to pay on purchases.
This year’s budget restores fairness to the state income tax by asking the wealthiest two percent to pay a two percent higher income tax rate. This would affect taxable income of joint filers earning over $250,000 and singles earning over $150,000/year, who currently pay about two percent less than the rest of Minnesotans. We also increase the tax on tobacco products, which has the added benefit of deterring thousands of kids from smoking. Other efforts to modernize Minnesota’s tax code includes capturing online sales tax and closing the latest corporate tax loopholes. Taken as a whole, these reforms to Minnesota’s tax system will stabilize the state’s revenue and make the tax code fairer for all Minnesotans.
The budget puts Minnesota’s fiscal house in order today and in the future and invested in important priorities that families, farms and businesses care about.  It doesn’t matter if you are a Republican, Democrat or Independent, we all want to see our children succeed, and our communities grow

LeRoy Stumpf
Plummer, MN

TIM MOE NAMED TEAMBACKER OF THE YEAR

The 2013 Teambacker of the Year Award at the University of Minnesota Crookston was presented to Tim Moe at the annual Fun Nite held Friday, April 29, 2013. The event was held at the Crookston Eagles and raises money for UMC athletic scholarships. Kari Torkelson, president of UMC Teambackers presented Moe with the award. The evening raised more than $19,000 in support of scholarships for student-athletes.
Moe has been on the board of Teambackers for four years and has served as vice president for two. He is active in Teambacker events and initiatives including golf tournaments and the annual Fun Nite.
Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, admires Moe for his commitment to Teambackers. “Tim Moe is a dedicated, hard-working member of the board who cares about the athletic department on our campus.”
UMC Teambackers is an athletic promotion and fundraising organization for UMC. It operates in conjunction with the UMC Development Office, the Athletic Department and the University of Minnesota Foundation. For more information on Teambackers, contact Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising at 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@umn.edu). 

Teambacker President Kari Torkelson presents Moe with his award

TUESDAY - MAY 21,  2013

SCHOOL BOARD DELAYS A DECISION ON THE NEXT MUSIC TRIP AFTER 40% DROP IN CHOIR AND BAND STUDENTS NEXT YEAR

The Crookston School board held a special meeting this morning and delayed the hiring of a math teacher, delayed a decision on the band trip after a 40 percent drop in choir and band students.

A future music trip was discussed, but they want more information as students in music for next year has declined. “In choir and band there is about a 40 percent drop in numbers for next year so we need to ask questions and see what is going on before we make a decision on a future music trip,” said Crookston Public Schools Superintendent Chris Bates.

The school board delayed the hiring of a high school math teacher until they have the resignation of the present math teacher. Bates asked the board to wait for a week. “Timing is the problem, Mr. Hasz was approved by the Pine City school board so he has officially given us a letter we can act on next Tuesday,” said Bates. “We can accept it then and then approve the new hiring.”
Three candidates were interviewed this week for the food service director. “They all brought different things to the table and now are doing background checks so we will have the results for the meeting next Tuesday,” said Bates.
Kristen Isaacson was hired as the speech language pathologist to replace Helen Murphy.

The swimming pool is almost ready to re-open. “We can see the light at the end of the tunnel and it’s beginning to look like a swimming pool again,” said Bates. “The tile is light and bright and when we get the water in and the new lights on it will look like a nice place so we hope to get it open in a few weeks,” said Bates.

With the Minnesota legislature adjourned, all day kindergarten was approved. “It is and for us the funding will be delayed for a year, but we know it will come after the Governor signs the bill,” said Bates. “There is a little bit of money one and a half percent will be new, clearly better than nothing for each year so now we can do more budget planning for firmer numbers and not be guessing.”

CROOKSTON WILL HOST A HOME SHOW ON MAY 29 AT THE CROOKSTON HIGH SCHOOL

Crookston city officials will host a home show at the Crookston High School commons on May 29 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. “We are inviting anyone who is interested in housing to set up a table. If anyone is interested, they should contact Craig Hoiseth at the Valley Tech Park or John Bridgeford and get yourself a booth free of charge,” said Crookston City Administrator Tony Chladek. Ten vendors are already in place. And Chladek invites the public to come and take a look at what is available for residents.  There is no charge and the concession stand will be open.

CROOKSTON PARK BOARD APPROVES GRANTS, TALKS WITH ELECTRIC COMPANY AND STILL HAS CENTRAL PARK CLOSED

The Crookston Park Board met on Monday and approved the matching grants for three groups. “We had tabled the approval at the last meeting and now we approved a grant to the Villa St. Vincent for a bench at Walsh Park which belongs to the city,” said Park and Recreation director Scott Riopelle. “The Natural Play group will get money for improvements at Castle Park and the Dog Park group will get funds for a shelter and brick work at the entrance.”

A meeting was recently held with staff from Red Lake Electric about the high cost of electricity at the Crookston Sports Center. “Two representatives of Red Lake Electric came and met with Mayor Genereux, City Administrator Tony Chladek and myself to discuss the consumption at the Crookston Sports Center,” said Riopelle. “We aren’t overboard at this point and they will send an engineer in to help us be more conservative.”

Central Park will remain closed until the danger of flooding is gone. “We have high water this week and have put in the electrical boxes, but have not hooked up the wires. We have cleaned up the mud on the roadway and the dikes are soft so we cannot have people driving on them,” said Riopelle. “The debris has been removed, but until the water is down, we cannot do anything with the boat landing as it would just fill up again so we have to wait.”

RIVERVIEW HEALTH FOUNDATION ACCEPTS DONATION FROM CROOKSTON UNITED AND THUNE INSURANCE

RiverView Foundation Director Kent Bruun recently accepted a donation from Nate Lubarski of Crookston United Insurance and Mike Reishus of Thune Insurance to go toward the purchase of a functional work simulator for the RiverView Rehab Services.
The simulator has the capacity to replicate numerous daily activities that will allow patients the ability to condition and strengthen their bodies back to pre-injury status, according to Lance Norman, vice president of ancillary services, “The benefits are nearly endless in the capability to achieve replication of functional activities for patient’s to assure their safety before they return back to their home or work environment."  
The functional work simulator also has software capabilities to test a particular limb and compare it to the opposite limb that may be injured or reconstructed to determine what percentage of deficit the patient continues to have. This can be down to 1 percent accuracy, and is used to allow the surgeon a better understanding of the patient’s current physiological status and/or joint health. “We understand the importance of the quality hometown health care that RiverView provides for the Crookston area,’’ said Lubarski. “We hope that this donation helps raise the funds needed to purchase the appropriate equipment so RiverView can continue to provide quality local care now and in the future.’’
The Foundation Golf Classic will be held Monday, June 3rd at Minakwa Golf Course in Crookston. To register, call Kent Bruun, RiverView Foundation Director at 218-281-9249 or e-mail Kent at kbruun@riverviewhealth.org.

         Kent Bruun receives the donation from Nate Lubarski

VILLA ST. VINCENT TO BEGIN CONSTRUCTION OF THEIR NEW ENTRY COMPLEX THIS SUMMER

“It has been a long time in the works, but groundbreaking for the new entry complex at Villa St. Vincent will begin this summer,” states Villa St. Vincent Administrator Judy Hulst.  “We are excited to journey forward at the same time as the Sisters of Saint Benedict undertake major changes to their campus, building a new, sustainable living space”
Through strategic planning, Villa St. Vincent set the design into motion in 2008 to identify improvements to the infrastructure of the building to better serve those seeking care and services.  Satisfaction surveys revealed transportation issues was a strong opportunity. “While we are hardy people here in Minnesota; our climate can be especially challenging as families and caregivers assist people in and out of vehicles,” said Hulst.  “The new addition is designed to improve not only comfort but safety as well; keeping people off the ice and indoors during those car transfers will be a wonderful enhancement.” 
The addition was designed keeping Villa St. Vincent’s Core Value of Stewardship a priority, since plans have a clear energy efficient focus. The building front will be improved as well, allowing for better accommodations in the Wellness Center and lounge areas.  “We also look forward to nice changes outside,” adds Hulst.  “The parking lot will be moved and the current parking area on the south side will be converted into a much more usable outdoor space.”
“We want to thank everyone who has contributed to this capital campaign,” said Foundation Director Lori Wagner.  “These types of projects are challenging since they are considered non-revenue producing. We must, therefore, achieve 100% of the funding through philanthropy.  We could not have moved forward with this critical improvement to expand our service capacity, without the continued generosity of the Crookston community and folks in the surrounding area.  We will be planning a celebration this fall when our addition is completed and want to see you here.”

CROOKSTON CHAMBER GARDENING DAY A BIG SUCCESS

The rains held off long enough for families to enjoy Gardening Day, sponsored by the Crookston Chamber Beautification Committee on Saturday at D & D Thomforde’s  Garden Center in Crookston.  Young children got to pet and ride two ponies.  Hot dogs and hamburgers from B & E Meats were served under the tent outside.  Inside, children were able to hold baby chicks and guinea pigs and take in story time. Children also learned about plants and plant insects and they also received a plant of their choice to take home.  Each family received a free plant or shrub and a packet of seeds.  A lot of children and their families were on hand to enjoy all the activities of Gardening Day.

 
Dawn Resendiz was one of the hosts at D and D's        Kids had the chance to pot their own plants at the Garden Party

MONDAY - MAY 20,  2013

CITY OF CROOKSTON GIVES AWAY OVER HALF THE LOTS IN THE FIRST HOUR

Crookston City Hall was an exciting place at 8 a.m. on Monday when residents were waiting to get in for the free residential lots. One person was at the door by 5:15 Monday morning and by 9:00 a.m. they had nine lots spoken for. “Nine out of 17 is pretty good and more people are calling so it was a good first day,” said Crookston City Administrator Tony Chladek who added that the residents were prepared. “They had what they needed, one gentleman had to go get more paperwork and when he got back, the lot he wanted was gone. Everyone had their documents and the $500 deposit and they picked out their lot and are ready to go.”
The other lots are available and anyone interested should stop at city hall of click here.

SHAFER PRE-TRIAL HEARING CONTINUED UNTIL JUNE 24

Andy Shafer, 19 of Crookston, appeared in district court on Monday for a pre-trial hearing. The pre-trial hearing was continued until June 24. Shafer has plead not guilty to a charge of first degree criminal sexual conduct which occurred on August 3 2012. Shafer remains confined at the Correction Center under a bond of $100,000.

CROOKSTON MAN CHARGED WITH SEVERAL COUNTS AFTER HE ROLLS HIS CAR

On Saturday, May 18, at approximately 7:00 a.m. the Minnesota State Patrol responded to and investigated an injury crash on Highway 2 and Highway75 in Crookston.  The driver, Timothy Buchanan, 31 years old of Crookston, was eastbound on Highway2 when he lost control of the vehicle on the curve to Hwy75.  The vehicle ran off the road and rolled.  Buchanan and his only occupant, his seven year old daughter, were transported by Crookston Ambulance to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.  The State Patrol was assisted by the Crookston Police Department and the Crookston Fire Department.  Buchanan was charged with “Driving After Cancellation – Inimical to Public Safety, Inattentive Driving, and No Insurance”.

RIVERVIEW PROMOTES TWO EMPLOYEES TO SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Just as RiverView Health has a new CEO in Carrie Michalski, it also has two new Senior Leadership Team members in Chris Bruggeman and Lance Norman. While both may be new to the Senior Leadership Team, neither is new to RiverView. “I am so thrilled about the success of our internal investment in growing our next generation of leaders,’’ said Michalski. “I thank them for stepping up to the plate of expanded responsibilities, and for their support in continuing achievement of our organizational goals.’’

Chris Bruggeman (pictured right) recently accepted his new role of Chief Operating Officer/Vice President of Support Services from his previous position as Director of Information Systems with RiverView. Bruggeman’s new position has him overseeing the Information Technology Department, Plant Operations and RiverView Recovery Center.
Bruggeman, a Crookston native and University of Minnesota - Crookston graduate in Information Network Management, has been with RiverView since 2007. Prior to that, he worked for Polk County as a Systems Analyst and Insight Technologies as a Systems Engineer. Bruggeman is currently enrolled in the University of South Dakota’s MBA program. He and his wife, Stacey, live in Crookston with their three children.

Lance Norman (pictured left) has been with RiverView Health since 2011 as the Director of Rehabilitation Services. Norman’s new position seats him on the Senior Leadership Team as the Vice President of Ancillary Services. He oversees the outpatient departments that include the Laboratory, Diagnostic Imaging, Rehab Services and the Care Center. He will also continue his role in upper extremity rehabilitation for area orthopedic physicians, as well as keeping a component of direct patient care specific to some of the complex hand work to support the needs of Dr. Colin Fennell’s orthopedic patients.
Norman is a graduate of the University of North Dakota’s (UND) Transitional Masters of Occupational Therapy Program. He currently serves as adjunct faculty at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences. Prior to his work at RiverView, Norman was the President/Chief Executive Officer at Axis Clinic, PC, in Grand Forks and was an Occupational Therapist at Altru Health Systems in Grand Forks. Norman and his fiancée, DeNae Matthys, reside in Grand Forks. He has two children.

CROOKSTON HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS TEAM FINISHES EIGHTH AT STATE

The Crookston High School Robotics team returned from state competition over the weekend where they finished eighth out of 30 teams.   They were treated to breakfast Monday morning by Superintendent Chris Bates.

Robert Ness is the youngest team member as a sophomore in high school and talked about the learning experience, “In my perspective we pretty well for being a small town in the Robotics team and I am confident I did well and hope to use it after high school.”

Justin Burgoz said they did really well, “We got eighth place out of 30, if we had practice we would have made the top four so we lost the first two rounds and then got better.”

Ethan Hegge, senior was the driver for the team, “I really could have used some practice so the first two rounds were are practice, but there was no time. This was my first experience in a state meet. I am thinking of getting a degree in electrical engineering, so this was a good start.”

Advisor Chris Trostad said practice would have helped. “The kids did well, we were 5-3 in the preliminary rounds. Our first two matches were off with a better start we would have made the top four. So we were darn close when the teams were picking.”

Richard Barnes said it was a highlight of the school year. “It was really great to see the other teams especially from St. Cloud where I lived before coming to Crookston,“ said Barnes. “I had a great time and want to help mentor with Mr. Trostad next year.”

Brady Larson competed in the Robotics competition and then was showing his painting at the state art show representing Crookston High School. “It was a great experience with the crowd and energy in the building and I encourage people to try it, the next day I had the state art show with my painting representing Crookston and many schools have many students participating,” said Burgoz. “My painting was the first one you saw when you came in the door. It was my wiener dog Oscar. It was a fun piece and the crowd loved it and when I introduced my painting I got a cheer from the crowd and I will continue to work in the art field.”

Justin Bugoz, Ethan Heggie, Brady Larson, John Normandin, Shahzor Memon, Chris Trostad, Bobby Nesvold, Mike Schliep, and Richard Barnes.

CROOKSTON SCHOOL BOARD TO HOLD SPECIAL MEETING AND WORKING SESSION ON TUESDAY

The Crookston School Board will hold a special meeting and working session on Tuesday at 7:00 a.m. in the district office at the high school. The agenda includes an employment agreement with Jaclyn Kramer, High School Mathematics Instructor and employment of Kristen Isaacson as speech Language Pathologist. Employment of a food service director to replace Ann Reidlinger will be on the agenda along with a discussion of negotiations strategies.
A swimming pool update will be offered and the music trip will be discussed. The meeting is open to the public.

UMC CHANCELLOR WOOD ATTENDS REGENT MEETING, UMC TO HAVE THREE RETIREMENTS

Dr. Fred Wood, University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC) Chancellor, attended the University of Minnesota Board of Regents meeting recently where new programs were approved for UMC. “There is strong support for our Wellness Center proposal and we hope we will get the design money this year. The regents were pleased with their visit to UMC for the Heritage Hall and the inauguration ceremonies,” said Dr. Wood. “We had two new programs approved for a major and minor in finance on campus and online. A humanities minor was also approved.”
Two UMC personnel were mentioned at the meeting. “Associate Professor Rachel McCoppin was acknowledged and Professor Alvin Killough was promoted with tenure. U of M Chancellors presented talks on recruitment and retention of faculty at the meeting. “We talked about technology and online how UMC recruits in a small community,” said Dr. Wood. “UMC was highlighted for being tobacco free and the main campus students are asking for at least a smoke free environment so we were mentioned as a model.”

A new director of admissions and enrollment management is in place with Carola Thorson starting on June 17. “She comes from Augsburg College and also worked at Concordia College in Moorhead where she graduated from,” said Dr. Wood. “Her husband has ties to Crookston.”

Two candidates for the position of vice chancellor for academic affairs were interviewed this past week. Three long time UMC staff are retiring, Tom Baldwin, Vicki Svedarsky and Mike Vivion and two department heads are moving on to other opportunities, Jack Geller and Adel Ali.

Many summer projects are planned, according to Dr. Wood. “A major project is a study and analysis of the campus electric system, installation of a fire sprinkler system at UTOC and in the Sahlstrom Conference Center, classroom updates, making offices from some rooms, updates in Brown Dining Room with new carpeting, LED Lighting and acoustic ceiling tiles and work on Kiehle Auditorium and other projects throughout the campus.”

CROOKSTON TOWNSHIP TO HAVE A WEBSITE TO PROVIDE MORE TRANSPARENCY

The Crookston Township Board met on Tuesday, May 14 and approved a website for the township to be created by Tom Lindo who volunteered to keep it current with the agendas. The minutes of past meetings, resolutions on file with the board, current board members and posting of public needs to be aware of will be on the website. This will make Crookston Township more transparent and keep people involved. The web address is www.crookstontownship.us.  Gerry DeBoer resigned from his position as supervisor and was thanked by the board and audience for his years of service. Kevin Larson was nominated to fill the vacancy until the next election in March, 2014. He will be sworn in at the next meeting in June.

FRIDAY - MAY 17,  2013

CITY OF CROOKSTON TO START GIVING AWAY FREE LOTS ON MONDAY

The Free Lot program on Barrette Street Estates starts at 8:00 am. on Monday, May 20 at Crookston City Hall. “17 free lots on Barrette Street will be available on Monday morning. People interested should come to city hall with a $500 check, a mortgage approval letter, then you can pick out your lot,” said Crookston City Administrator Tony Chladek. “We will get the purchase agreement language together, the deed, and some closing costs; so for those interested we invite you to show up on Monday morning.”
People have shown an interest in the lots that have covenants as part of the agreement. If you want more information, go to the city of Crookston website at www.crookston.mn.us or click on the advertisement on our front page.
“Some people interested in lots are looking for contractors but we are not in the business of providing contractors, but if there are interested contractors in building homes they can let us know at city hall and we will pass the names along,” said Chladek. “The $500 check goes toward the permits and other closing costs. So we are looking forward to seeing people on Monday morning.”
The lots are valued at $20,000 which includes the infrastructure. The sizes of the lots vary, but are in the range of 80 by 150 feet.

CROOKSTON HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION IS FRIDAY, MAY 24

Crookston High School Commencement is set for Friday, May 24 at 7:00 p.m. at Lysaker gym at UMC. “The program will last about one to an hour and a half, and retiring teacher Jon Bittner was chosen speaker by the graduates,” said Crookston High School Principal Lon Jorgenson. “Students chosen to speak are Cyrina Ostgaard and Emma Dufault. There are two dual speakers; Lilli Denison and Dylan Wavra, and Erica Samuelson and Isaac Loegering; who will send messages to their fellow Seniors.”
101 students will be graduating from Crookston High School. They will receive their diplomas from Tim Dufault and Dave Davidson, who are school board members and also fathers of graduating daughters.

CRES TO HOLD A SMALL BUSINESS EXCHANGE ON TUESDAY, MAY 21 AT UMC

The Center for Rural Entrepreneurial Studies (CRES) its inaugural Entrepreneur and Small Business Exchange on Tuesday, May 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The exchange will be held in Bede Ballroom, Sargeant Student Center at the University of Minnesota Crookston. The event is free and will provide an opportunity for entrepreneurs and small business owners to learn from each other and address issues they face.  For more information or to register for this event, contact Rachel Lundbohm, associate director of CRES, at rlundboh@umn.edu or (218) 281-8190.
The Entrepreneur and Small Business Exchange will include speakers, a luncheon, and a roundtable discussion. All are welcome to attend from those thinking about starting a business to those who own an established business.

The mission of the Center for Rural Entrepreneurial Studies is to encourage entrepreneurship through educational leadership, applied research, and insightful consulting.  CRES engages the students, faculty, and research facilities of the University of Minnesota, Crookston in order to stimulate the entrepreneurial culture and strengthen the economic vitality of northwest Minnesota.  CRES serves the eleven county region of northwest Minnesota, including Beltrami, Clearwater, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau counties, and is located in Dowell Hall 117on the Crookston campus.

BURNING RESTRICTIONS ARE IN EFFECT FOR MOST OF MINNESOTA

This week has been very active for fires, especially in Northwest Minnesota.   In these extreme fire conditions, Minnesota Incident Command System (MNICS) agencies urge people to call 911 if they see a fire.  Please do not try to put out a fire yourself. Burning restrictions are in place in most of Minnesota due to the fire danger.  These restrictions will remain in effect until green-up when fire danger decreases.  Burning restrictions prohibit open burning of vegetative debris.  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) along with the Crookston Fire Department will not issue burning permits during this time. 
Campfires are allowed if they are no larger than three feet high by three feet across.  Please use extreme caution with campfires.  Over the last few days, DNR firefighters and local fire departments have responded to wildfires caused when campfires have gotten away.   Clear the area around the campfire. Keep a water source handy.  Stay with the fire at all times, and make sure it is completely out (cool to the touch) before leaving.
For those who burned debris before the burning restrictions took effect, please check  to make sure there are no hot spots.  Hidden embers can flare up in these high wind conditions.
For current information on fire danger, visit the DNR website at http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html.

THURSDAY - MAY 16, 2013

CROOKSTON POLICE LOOKING FOR TWO SUSPECTS IN A COPPER THEFT FROM NAPA/CROOKSTON WELDING

On May 9, the Crookston Police Department received a report that over $4,000 in copper was stolen from NAPA/Crookston Welding and Machine in Crookston.  Video surveillance was obtained and the video shows a dark colored pickup with two people entering the property along the south side of the business.  Suspect #1 appears to be wearing a dark long sleeved shirt/jacket, dark pants and white shoes.  Suspect #2 appears to be wearing a dark long sleeve shirt/jacket, lighter pants and dark shoes.
The Crookston Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects.  Please call 218-281-3111 with any information you may have regarding this investigation.
NAPA/Crookston Welding and Machine in Crookston is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects.  Pictures from the video surveillance are below.


The first photograph shows the pickup and Suspect #1 behind the pickup, illuminated by the taillights.

The second photograph shows the pickup and Suspect #2 in front of the pickup illuminated by the headlights. (Pictures provided by the Crookston Police Department)

RURAL TRANSPORTATION COLLABORATIVE DELIVERS "YEARS" OF SERVICE IN 2012

The Rural Transportation Collaborative (RTC), a division of Tri-Valley Opportunity Council, Inc., has helped countless people and has compiled amazing statistics since the inception of the RTC program in 2002.
In 2012 alone drivers volunteered 22,148 hours and drove 659,023 miles. To put this into perspective, the moon is 238,900 miles away from earth. This means that RTC drivers could have gone to the moon over 2.75 times in 2012. The 22,148 hours of volunteer time equates to 2.53 years of work in just a 12 month period. In the 10 years of the RTC Program, drivers have driven 5,230,761 miles and volunteered 174,221 hours, equivalent to 19.88 years of work.
RTC is a partnership program that coordinates volunteer drivers to transport those who have no other means of transportation or cannot drive. RTC is a curb to curb, mileage based public transportation volunteer driver program. People are transported for various approved purposes. Volunteer drivers are available seven days a week with extended hours with the core service area is Polk, Red Lake, Pennington, Norman Marshall and Kittson counties. However, the program has working agreements with multiple other counties and has provided transportation to customers that have appointments as far as Minneapolis, Rochester as well as many North Dakota destinations.
For more information on becoming a rider with RTC please call 1-866-884-2695. To become a volunteer driver visit the RTC webpage at www.tvoc.org to fill out an application or call 1-866-884-2695. The RTC drivers donate their time and are reimbursed the IRS rate per mile they drive to cover the expenses they occur while on the road.

MARGEE KELLER RECEIVES NATIONAL DAV RECOGNITION

The National Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary has honored a member of the Crookston DAV auxiliary with a certificate of honorable mention. Margee Keller was the recipient of the honor. “I received the honor on the national level for outstanding work throughout the year and I was chosen as one of them,” said Keller. “When I do the projects I do not seek out recognition, but it is nice to be recognized.”
Keller was commended for her admirable contribution to the community and the nation’s disabled veterans and their families.

2013 MEN'S GOLF LEAGUE HOLDING SIGN UP ON MAY 20 AT MINAKWA

The 2013 Men’s Golf League will be holding a sign-up opportunity at Minakwa on Monday, May 20 from 5:30-6:30 with a team scramble to follow at 6:30.  Cost for League is $60 per player or $120 per team.  The League will officially start on June 3 at 7:00 p.m. following the Riverview Foundation Golf Classic.  Sign-up sheets will be available at Minakwa for those unable to attend Monday the 20th and all League members must also be members of Minakwa Golf Course.  Any questions or concerns, please contact Bill Markovich at 281-6666 or Minakwa at 281-1773.

CATHEDRAL SCHOOL TO HOST A SPRING PROGRAM TONIGHT, (MAY 16)

The public is invited to join the Cathedral School students as they present "Camp Heart and Soul", a Christian musical performed by the students. The campers show that sharing their talents is more important than being the star. Performance on Thursday, May 16 at 7:00pm in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. All are welcome. (Picture by Laurie Erickson)

OUR SAVIORS TEACHER AND STUDENT ENTERTAIN HONORARY WOMEN TEACHERS GROUP

On Tuesday evening, Rob Lutz, teacher at Our Savior's School, and sixth grade student Tanner Janorschke provided musical entertainment for the Chi Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, which is an honorary women teachers group. All women teachers are welcome to join. (Picture by Sandra Trittin)

WEDNESDAY - MAY 15,  2013

CROOKSTON FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE GRASS FIRE BEHIND THE WINTER SHOWS BUILDING

The Crookston Firefighters were busy on Tuesday afternoon and evening battling another grass fire, this time it was very close to home.  The fire was in a field behind the Red River Valley Winter Shows building and across the highway from Minakwa Golf Course.  Smoke started to blow to the east of Crookston, then the wind shifted and blew smoke through Crookston.  The cause of the fire is unknown at this time, but it appears the fire started from a spark from a train.  The firefighters fought the fire for two and a half hours and then stood by until 10:00 p.m. to make sure there weren't any flare ups.  KROX was on the scene and has video and pictures below of two firefighters trying to contain the blaze.  In the video, we are so close you can hear the crackling of the fire (when the wind dies down).   If you have a cool picture of the fire and want to share it, send it to krox@rrv.net and we will add it to our site!

CLICK ON THE VIDEO BELOW TO SEE THE FIREFIGHTERS FIGHT THE FIRE

 
   A picture looking down the highway into the smoke from the grass fire       Another picture of the smoke from the fire (Pictures submitted by Linda)

 
FOR THE OBITUARY PAGE  CLICK HERE

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