ASKOV

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 American VOL. 107 NO. 3 $1.00 SCHOOL/SPORTS NEWS: Foodball begins. P7 COVID-19 outbreak County Extension offers in Sandstone prison Master Gardener internships

BY MIKE GAINOR that they’re interpreting the guidance [email protected] correctly, especially the exclusion guid- ance that the state has put out — which Nearly 100 cases of COVID-19 have students have to stay home, how long been reported in the Federal Correc- do they have to stay home, which staff tional Institute in Sandstone, raising people have to stay home if they’re sick Pine County’s total count of COVID-19 or they’re around somebody who’s sick,” cases to 284 as of Monday, September 21. Lo explained. “And every case is ever Also included in the Pine County total so slightly different, so we really work are the 73 confirmed positive cases in through every case with them.” the state-run Willow River correctional Lo said that different staff are assigned facility, where an outbreak took place to different school districts, so that earlier this year. each district has one point person at the So far in Pine County, there have been county. no deaths from COVID-19. “If Pine City has a question, there’s just Pine County Community Health one person they’re going to call — and Services Administrator Sam Lo said it’s just one person’s phone number,” she the cases in the Sandstone prison were said. primarily inmates, with a few staff mem- According to Lo, all schools in Pine bers contracting the coronavirus as well. County except Pine City High School are She said that, otherwise, Pine County currently doing in-person learning. is experiencing a modest rise in cases “On a weekly basis, we connect with CONTRIBUTED among residents — and she hopes that them and we look at the updated counts social distancing and use of masks will and the 14-day case rate. In the major- STAFF REPORT opportunity to take a basic horti- help keep it under control. ity of the schools there are kids out on [email protected] culture course from experts and to “If you ... just looked at community quarantine. Not necessarily because of a share their gardening knowledge cases, we’re seeing a slow uptick,” Lo contact at school. But we work through As summer turns to fall, Pine and experience with citizens of the said. “It’s a slow, steady increase, not a that with them as well.” County Extension is offering pro- county. crazy, exponential increase. But we’re She said that the county public health grams for farmers and gardeners Individuals in the program will definitely not seeing less cases or flatlin- tries to deliver accurate information as looking to gain knowledge and start an internship that begins with ing.” quickly as possible. discover best practices for success in a 14 week 48-hour Master Gardener “It has a really big ripple effect if we growing seasons to come. Core Course the second week of Jan- SCHOOL RESPONSE make a call on a school, whether it’s a PINE COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS uary 2021. Following the core course, Lo said that she and other county pub- classroom or an entire building,” she October 1 is the deadline to apply interns will complete 50 hours of lic health staff have been working closely said. to become a Master Gardener in volunteer time in their first year by with Pine County schools to figure out Lo also said that Pine County Public Pine County (and every county in working with other local master gar- how to handle different situations involv- Health is still working towards setting Minnesota) in 2021. The University deners on a variety of projects that ing COVID-19. up a mobile unit for testing – and even- of Minnesota Extension Master inform the public about gardening “We connect with [the schools] fre- tually for vaccine distribution in the Gardener program gives people who quently on different things to make sure county. have an interest in gardening the SEE GARDEN, PAGE 9 County officials support Willow River CIP

BY MIKE GAINOR property offend- facilities and Challenge Incarceration Program at [email protected] ers by 32% and its graduates other existing minimum custody prison the chance of have contrib- sites. The Pine County Board of Commis- reincarceration uted more than Pine County Attorney Reese Freder- sioners have unanimously approved by 35%. $47,000,000 to the ickson has also spoken out in favor of a resolution to support the Challenge “The program economy. keeping the facility open, citing, “the Incarceration Program in Willow River is ... to provide “Therefore, be importance of this facility to the Pine — and to oppose the Minnesota Depart- an intensive it resolved that County community, the excellent qual- ment of Correction’s current plans to program in the Pine County ity of work provided, and the many jobs close that facility. education, Board of Com- supported by the program.” The Minnesota Department of Cor- critical thinking missioners op- He urged those who support keeping rections announced in August that skills develop- poses the closing the Willow River facility open to con- the Minnesota Correctional Facility ment, chemical of this cost-effec- tact Minnesota legislators, in particu- in Willow River — which has been in dependency tive and proven lar the majority/minority leaders of the existence since 1951 — will be closing programming and rigorous physical program,” the resolution stated. house and Senate before a new special due what it describes as a “substantial exercise,” the resolution read. It noted The DOC reported that it faces a session begins: budget crisis.” that participants in the program have budget deficiency of approximately $14 – Paul Gazelka (Senate Majority On Monday, August 3, the DOC noti- provided many hours of service to local million in the fiscal year ending June Leader): 651-296-4875; www.senate.mn/ fied its staff and legislative leaders of nonprofits, aided in building commu- 30, 2021, after the legislature adjourned members/email-form/1169 plans to close both the Willow River fa- nity projects and responded during from the recent special session without – Susan Kent (Senate Minority cility in northern Pine County and the local emergencies. action on the agency’s supplemental Leader): 651-296-4166; www.senate.mn/ Togo facility located in Itasca County, The resolution also referred to the budget request. members/email-form/1215 these being the two smallest prisons in economic effect of the closing on local The combined annual budget for Togo – Ryan Winkler (House Majority Minnesota. communities. The Willow River facility and Willow River is approximately $11 Leader): 651-296-7026; rep.ryan.win- The Pine County resolution passed currently has approximately 51 full million. According to the DOC, most of [email protected] on September 1, and noted that the time equivalent employees, and there the jobs lost in Willow River and Togo – Kurt Daudt (House Minority Challenge Incarceration program has are another 48 full time equivalent positions will be eliminated, though Leader): 763-634-2616; rep.kurt.daudt@ found success in decreasing the chance positions at Togo. some will need to be retained to support house.mn of reoffending for non-violent drug and The resolution asserts that the two continued operation of the department’s

NEWS/PUBLIC NOTICES ADVERTISING CLASSIFIEDS SUBSCRIPTIONS 320-838-3151 320-336-0488 320-372-1924 320-838-3151 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 2 ASKOV AMERICAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 Fedder uncovers, defuses 2 bombs in video

BY MIKE GAINOR comrade’s feat of bravery. something out of the ground [email protected] The soldiers in the waiting — it looks soft, like a bag or vehicle narrate what’s happen- backpack of some sort. He sets It’s one thing to hear that ing. “The EOD’s looking for a it aside. someone is a hero. It’s another possible explosive device in the “Don’t tell me he’s got some- thing to see their heroism in dirt here,” one says. “As you thing,” says the first soldier in action. can see, these crazy cats just the vehicle. This video (at https:// get in and start digging.” At 39 seconds, he pulls up a www.youtube.com/watch?v- Normally the EOD unit large, heavy object from the =d60q6qy3DV4) shows Marine would use a robot to go in and ground, glinting in the desert Corps Master Sergeant Daniel examine the area. On this day, sun. It appears to be two cylin- Fedder’s bravery, skill and the robot was broken down, so ders — one larger, one smaller coolness under pressure dur- it was up to someone to check it — wrapped together. ing his service with the Marine out personally. Both soldiers in the vehicle Corps Explosive Ordinance “Being team leader, he’d say the same thing, just one Disposal (EOD) unit, The video never ask any of his guys to do word. was posted to YouTube on any of that stuff because of the “Wow.” September 27, 2006, and shows danger,” explained Fedder’s Fedder pulls the objects up so Fedder disabling an actual mother Jackie McKellar. he can examine them. He looks roadside bomb during one of Fedder is digging quickly up, says something, and again his two combat tours in Iraq. and methodically, using both shouts something to his left Fedder’s family confirmed hands and the flat side of the and to his right. He adjusts his that it is he who is pictured in knife to get down into the weight on his knees, and picks action in the video. The video’s ground to find out where the up his knife again. author reported that Army wire leads. He clears away “He just pulled two rounds Information Assurance called some of the dust with his hand, out of there,” says the soldier in CONTRIBUTED in the EOD team because a then raises his head from his the vehicle. “It looks like a 120 possible detonation cord was work to shout something to the and a 155 if I had to guess. It With his knife in his right hand, Marine Corps Master Sergeant Daniel Fed- found crossing a driveway. team. Seven seconds have gone looks like it’s taped up.” der pries the top off of a roadside bomb to disable the device. The video begins with the by. He shouts again further to A 120 mm mortar round image of Fedder on his knees his left, then again to his right. weighs about 33 pounds, ac- soldier in the vehicle says. “Wow,” says the soldier in the digging in shallow dirt with Then he claps his gloved hands cording to www.globalsecurity. Fedder pulls the fuse out vehicle. a tool. Soon it becomes clear together to get the dust off. He org, and is the equivalent of of the tip of the larger shell The video then pulls back to that the tool is a knife, and he looks around again, to his left almost 10 pounds of TNT. A and lays it aside, then takes show a number of cars passing is digging to find out whether a and to his right, presumably to 155 mm artillery round weighs a smaller tool out of a pocket by on the road — all possible roadside bomb has been left in make sure the area is clear of about 97 pounds, and is the and sets to work on the smaller victims of the roadside bomb the area. everyone except himself. Then equivalent of about 15 pounds shell. that was live until moments The video is being taken he goes in again with his knife. of TNT. He extracts the fuse from the ago, and all of them now pro- from an armored vehicle We’re now at 16 seconds. At 52 seconds into the video, smaller shell and leaves it on tected by Fedder’s actions. across the road from Fedder, Fedder is digging faster now. Fedder takes his knife and the ground. He puts his tool Editor’s note: Please be aware providing security for the EOD He’s clearing the dirt from begins to pry into the larger of back in his pocket, and at 1:45 that the video contains rough team. Crosshairs are visible around whatever is buried the two shells. Using his own into the video, he lifts up the language. These are U.S. troops on the screen, used for taking beneath it. At 30 seconds, he hand as a hammer, he pounds two shells with a combined on an actual combat mission in aim at the enemy. But for now, begins tugging at something the tip of the knife into the end weight of around 130 pounds. a war zone. If you are offended the soldiers in the vehicle — a that was buried a few moments of the shell. Cradling the explosives in his by such language, mute the vol- tank, or some other armored ago. At 36 seconds he sticks his “It looks like he’s digging the arms, he carries them away ume on the video before viewing. vehicle — are watching their knife into the dirt and pulls fuses right out of them,” the from the area.

BOTANY 101

ACROSS More CARES Act funds 1. One’s arbitrary assertion 6. “Swan Lake” step 9. Not Sunni 13. Mountaineer’s tool 14. Tolkien creature head to businesses, 15. Bebe Rexha’s “____ to Be” 16. Artificial or mannered 17. Snow runner 18. Nylon or Kevlar, in chemistry terms nonprofits 19. Scooby-Doo’s best friend 21. *Between order and genus 23. *Marine botany is study of STAFF REPORT burse direct expenses such as physical plants living here [email protected] modifications to continue operations, 24. 35mm, e.g. hardware and software purchases, dis- 25. Public health agency, acr. Pine County businesses and nonprof- infecting and sanitation supplies, and 28. Partner of void its impacted by COVID-19 have another rent, mortgage andutility payments. 30. Small lynx 35. Stewart and Blagojevich opportunity to receive financial assis- The grant can also be used to make up 37. Grazing lands tance to help with expenses incurred lost income and fundraising revenue. 39. Jawaharlal ____ during the pandemic. Through the fed- To be eligible, non-profits must be 40. g or cm eral CARES Act, $10,000 grants are be- recognized as a 501 (c)(3), (c)(4), or veter- 41. Smelling ____, athlete’s pick- ing offered to Pine County businesses, ans organizations as defined by the IRS me-upper 43. No neatnik and $5,000 grants are being offered to and have a physical presence in Pine 44. Lay to rest county nonprofits. County. 46. They are hairy on a hobbit 47. Hefty volume BUSINESS ASSISTANCE HOW TO APPLY 48. One in line, during COVID-19 Pine County has announced that a Both of these grant programs are be- pandemic 50. In the middle of second round of the business assistance ing administered by Pine County with 52. *Grain-bearing tip of a cereal program is now open, and will run un- assistance from the Initiative Founda- plant til September 30 at 10 p.m. Pine County tion. Questions on the grants should be 53. Cattle meat Administrator David Minke said that directed to Don Hickman at the Initia- 55. Fleur-de-____ more than $333,000 in grants were tive Foundation [email protected] 57. *Pollinator attractors 60. *Food for a pollinator awarded in round 1 of the Business 320-631-2043 or David Minke, County 63. One there at the beginning Assistance program. Administrator [email protected]. 64. Famous T-Rex The Business Assistance program mn.us 320-591-1620. The on-line appli- 66. Lowest deck grants will provide up to $10,000 to cations are available on Pine County’s 68. Forearm bones reimburse businesses for costs related web page www.co.pine.mn.us. 69. Cassius Clay, ____ Muham- mad Ali to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible archaeology, to friends upon a crooked ____” 70. Private instructor 12. Filled up 45. Sales lure expenses include physical modifica- FEDERAL CARES ACT 71. ____-do-well 15. Biblical personification of 49. Electric fish tions to continue operations, hardware Funding for both programs is 72. Thus far material wealth 51. *Not monocots and software purchases, disinfecting through the federal CARES Act (Cor- 73. Inflict a blow 20. Olden-day Celts 54. Piece of writing 22. Priest’s robe 56. Pull strings and sanitation supplies, and similar onavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic DOWN expenses. Additionally, up to three Security Act). Pine County has been 24. Blank leaf in a book 57. Carpet attribute 1. Female sib 25. *Seed holder 58. Marine eagle months of rent, mortgage, and utility allocated a total of $3,576,478 from the 2. “Hamlet” has five 26. “Death, Be Not Proud” poet 59. Russia’s famous Peter payments can be reimbursed. CARES Act. Collectively, Pine County 3. Sure or uh-huh 27. Mine passages 60. Sans mixers cities with populations of 200-plus are 4. “The Forsyte ____,” pl. 29. *Food manufacturer 61. Choir voice 5. *Product of photosynthesis 31. Superlative of better 62. *Plant anchor NONPROFIT ASSISTANCE receiving about $880,000, while town- 6. One of a pocketful, according to The Non-Profit Assistance Program ships with populations of 200-plus are 32. Actress Sevigny 63. Good times Mother Goose 33. Something in the air 65. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s deadline is extended to September 30 at receiving $425,000. Another $54,116 will 7. Genesis vessel 34. *Potato, e.g. guitar 10 p.m. The grants will aid non-profit be distributed by the county among the 8. “The Matrix” genre 36. Proofreader’s mark 67. Prefix for prior businesses financially impacted by the five cities and nine townships in Pine 9. Highway hauler 38. *Plant support 10. Icy precipitation 42. “...he found a crooked sixpence Answers on page 11. pandemic and reimburse up to $5,000 County with populations under 200. 11. Dr. Jones, fictional professor of per nonprofit. The grant can reim- september 24, 2020 Askov American 3 obituary Nathaniel, Ashley, Brian, Alex, Cassie, Timothy B. Williams Emily, Dalton, Abby, Christopher, Troy, Timothy Bertram Williams was a Cody, Gabriel and Theodore; great- “Jack of all trades master of none, better grand children Nevaeh, Raeann, Ad- & to have all then only one! All that had dison and Jessica; and many brothers, Out About the privilege to know him will know sisters, nieces and nephews. Looking Ahead 320-591-1500 for information or 320-591- that he was the kind of guy who would Timothy (Tiny Tim) Williams served 1400 for general information. give you the two tours with honor in Vietnam (69-70) Farmers Market: Fridays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 Adult Mental Health support line: 651-288- shirt off his in the United States Army as Spec 5 at p.m., Pine County Fairgrounds. 0400, 877-404-3190 or text “support” to back. the time of discharge. He completed 85511. Timothy college in 1977 at Pine Technical College Monthly Events Free Online Mental Health Peer Support Bertram as a machinist, which he did for many NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Men- Groups for individuals and families. Go to Williams was years. He worked for the U.S. Fish and tal Illness) offers free support groups for all namimn.org and click on “Support Groups” or born on June Wildlife until the U.S. government (cen- ages. For more information and to sign up, go go straight to https://namimn.org/support/ 28, 1951, in sored) him off (imagine that); then he to namimn.org, click on support groups. nami-minnesota-support-groups/ to find Minneapolis, concentrated on odd jobs and landscap- American Legion Askov 243, 2nd Saturday of the correct online group for your situation. Minnesota, to ing such as Twee Sales. He was Jack of month, 10 a.m. at the Mermaid, Askov. AdultMentalHealth.org, Free confidential, Charles and all trades and he did not stop working NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on anonymous mental health support, 7 days/ Irene Wil- until the day he died. He will be missed Mental Illness) offers free training to help week, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., 833-HERE4MN (833- liams (Jen- by all. caregivers develop personal stratagies for 437-3466). sen/Hanson). Tim Williams lived his life around managing stress, practicing self-care. 20 Family Pathways food distribution, 1-3 p.m., He worked as many family and friends as he could minutes long. To access, go to namimn.org Through November, Pine County. Oct. 6, Nov. his life as a and enjoyed renovating and any other and see “Self-Care Training for Senior Work- 3: Aashoomog Community Center, 45749 machinist, landscaping and was known odd jobs to keep him busy, he loved fish- ers.” 651-645-2948. Grace Lake Rd., Sandstone. Oct. 20, Nov. 10: in the northern parts as the twee man ing as well as learning new things. He Pine Technical College, enter/exit on 8th Ave. (tree). He was preceded in death by his liked his beer and his friends and family Community SE. Oct. 20, Nov. 17: Askov Community Center, father, Charles; mother, Irene; step- coming to visit and have one with him. Oak Lake church continues with audio pod- 6369 Kobmargergade. Sept. 22, Oct. 27, Nov. father, Kenny Jensen; and his sons, Tim died peacefully at his house on cast each Sunday. 24: Hinckley Community Center, 102 Dunn John Timothy and Brian Timothy; his Saturday, September 19, surrounded by Ave. N. Please bring your own boxes/bags/ great-grandsons, Landon Christopher his family and friends. He will be truly good to know totes to carry your food. and Xavier William; his brothers, Char- missed but will be watching over all of Deputy Registrar/DMV Office in Sandstone: Family Pathways food distribution, 1-3 p.m., les Williams and Leo Jensen; and his us and he will live on through all of our The office is open. Through November, Pine County. Oct. 6, Nov. son-in-law, Jeffrey Hughley; and many memories of him. Askov City Hall: Open Monday to Friday, 8 3: Aashoomog Community Center, 45749 more family members and good friends And as Tim would say, “It is what it a.m.-4:30 p.m. Grace Lake Rd., Sandstone. Oct. 20, Nov. 10: who he is now with. is,” so if you smoke then smoke, if you Finlayson City Hall: Call at 320-233-6472 or Pine Technical College, enter/exit on 8th He is survived by his wife, Ella drink then drink, have one for Tim and email at [email protected]. Pay- Ave. SE. Oct. 20, Nov. 17: Askov Community Williams; and his right-hand woman, enjoy life as it is! ments online or via mail for utilities are still Center, 6369 Kobmargergade. Oct. 27, Nov. Daisy; his son, Bert (Nancy) Williams; We will be having a celebration of accepted. 24: Hinckley Community Center, 102 Dunn his daughter, Brenda (Ivan Eklund); and life on Saturday, October 3, at 5 p.m. Hinckley City Hall: Call at 320-384-7491, Ave. N. Please bring your own boxes/bags/ daughter, Kathy (Randy) Robinson and at Bears Den in Bruno, Minnesota. email at [email protected]. totes to carry your food. his daughter, Meagan Williams; grand- Services will be held at Fort Snelling for Sandstone City Hall: Call 320-245-5241 or Community Worship Center, 114 Minnesota children, Charlotte, Dustin, Michael, immediate family. contact them through their webpage sand- St., Sandstone, MN will be holding their stone.govoffice.com. Annual Fall Rummage Sale on Friday and Pine County License Center (Pine City) is Saturday, October 9-10 from 9AM - 5PM. We open. welcome donations of clean used items to Virtual authors Saturday Pine County Courthouse is open to public. Call help the community. come to ECRL NAMI walks virtual walk Jon Tatting writers and readers to explore various East central regional library themes together: the impact of literature in their lives, their connection as fellow Enjoy a lively virtual discussion with Minnesotans, and the lens through to raise awareness four multi-genre, Minnesota Book which we read. Captioning will be Award-winning authors on Saturday, provided. national alliance on mental illness nents with “real life” safe-distance September 26, from 9:30-11 a.m. The Moving Words is a program of The namimn.org celebrations. The event supports the authors will include Michael Hall, Bao Friends of the St. Paul Public Library efforts of NAMI Minnesota (National Phi, Laura Purdie Salas and Joyce as the Library of Congress-designated More than 1,250 people from around Alliance on Mental Illness) to provide Sidman. Minnesota Center for the Book with the state have signed up to join in education, support and advocacy Registration is required and coming East Central Regional Library. Addi- NAMI Minnesota’s Virtual Walk to for children and adults with mental soon for this free online event, which tional support is provided by the Harlan raise awareness about mental ill- illnesses and their families. For regis- will be held on the Zoom platform. Boss Foundation for the Arts and nesses and celebrate hope on Sept. tration, including forming or joining Visit ecrlib.org and follow East Central Education Minnesota. This program 26 from 11:00-3:00. The modified 2020 a team, go to namimn.org and click Regional Library on Facebook for all is made possible in part by the state of NAMI Walks Virtual Walk event on NAMIWalks or call 651-645-2948 up-to-date information. Minnesota through a grant to the Min- has a new format that will combine or. Share hope by participating in this Moving Words is an opportunity for nesota Department of Education. virtual “socially distanced” compo- inspiring event. DO YOU REMEMBER? two new ambulances now serve pine county

By Sylvia Schweiger Two area residents that recently passed away Many attended the baby shower at the Duquette were Albert Sahlen of Sand Creek and Albert July of Hall on Sunday in honor of John and Julie Chilman of ONE HUNDRED Bruno. Columbia Heights. John is the son of Sue Koecher. YEARS AGO Minnesota State Patrol warns drivers to dim lights Ed Berglund of Kerrick met a tragic accident Friday. … they have issued 565 warnings so far this year and He had the misfortune to lose his right arm in a silo september 30, 1920 a number of accidents have been reported recently in filling accident. He is in North Memorial Hospital in A baby girl arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. which undimmed lights were a factor. Robbinsdale. Albert Johnson Wednesday. All concerned are doing The Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Askov was the well and even “daddy” is wearing a big smile. FIFTY YEARS AGO scene of a pretty wedding on September 16th when Frode Bruce has sold his barber shop to Jens OCTOBER 1, 1970 Gary Nelson and Sarah Thinesen exchanged vows. Hyldahl. Jens will take a course in one of the Twin Two new ambulances have been delivered to Pine TEN YEARS AGO Cities barber colleges and open the shop in a few County. One will be stationed in Sandstone and dis- weeks. patched by the hospital. One will serve the southern september 23, 2010 No definite word has been received from the Rail- area of the county and will be stationed at Pine City. road and Warehouse Commissioners as to whether or Ade Degerstrom wins first place in the three-mile Two men, Christian Eichert and Brandon Lind, not Sandstone will have a new Great Northern Depot. cross country run over Chisago Lakes. Mrs. Helga have been charged for the fires in the Finlayson area Hermansen, 67, passed away at Pine County Memorial that took place on April 13, 2008. The fires destroyed SEVENTY-FIVE on September 28th after a lengthy illness. the Finlayson-Geise Sportsmen Club and nine other YEARS AGO Mrs. Arnold Sorensen of St. Paul, formerly of Askov, properties. The damage for that one morning totaled was the victim of a hit and run accident in St. Paul Fri- $1,491.344. The men face 57 charges for multiple local september 27, 1945 day night. Funeral services were held Tuesday from a arsons and burglaries. Mr. and Mrs. John Storebo of Bruno are the proud chapel in St. Paul. No decisions have been made yet … the former East parents of a baby boy. Central Sandstone Elementary School building debate Another Linotype has been installed at the Askov TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO talks continue as to what is the next step. American office. It will be convenient and will make for more expeditious service. SEPTEMBER 28, 1995 4 Askov American OPINION september 24, 2020 Voting preparation YOUR VOTING DECISIONS in the presiden- tial election on November 3 will be important if you haven’t already voted in absentia. I’m not endorsing any candidate, but I read some helpful information by Peter Ad- ams, head of the education team at the News Literacy Project. In part, what he suggests is to understand what the most impor- tant issues in this campaign are to you and then determine which policies and political candidates are best suited to address those concerns. Gene You may have to make a list of Johnson those important issues. My list includes a successful vaccine to Publisher control the virus and/or thera- Emeritus, Press pies to assist; a strong economy Publications, that provides employment, which White Bear Lake in part means policies that will bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S.; national health care available to everyone that allows private insur- ance options; a foreign policy that brings nations together to avoid wars and economic disturbances; and racial equity with freedoms and justice for all as provided by our Constitution. Now let’s look at what Peter Adams suggests. Keep an eye on your emotions. Be rational with the information you receive. Be sure there is credi- ble evidence that backs up the information. Don’t share information if you have only read Letters to the editor the headlines and be skeptical of what you read. Learn to spot misinformation patterns. Remem- ber, elections inspire all kinds of rumors, hoaxes We can make a difference make our township a more pros- to put this land back into private and misleading memes. You can spot misinforma- perous, friendly, caring commu- ownership. tion by following fact-checking organizations. To the editor, nity. Remembering that any dif- 2.Manage and maintain effi- Don’t fall for deepfakes or cheapfakes. We used I would like to thank Kathi ferences disappear in our nation ciently what there is now in Pine to be able to trust what we saw with our own eyes. Bennett of Willow River for her as it faces our problems working County Government. Pine county No more. Artificial intelligence is now capable of letter in last week’s paper regard- toward solutions as Americans all. taxpayers deserve this. Also the producing incredibly lifelike fabrications, whether ing “Saving CIP.” I had wanted to Terrence Darwin safety and security of Pine County it is images of people or videos. write letters to those who are in Kerrick is a top priority, we need to keep Be skeptical, not cynical. With so much misin- charge of making a difference and a well trained up to date Sher- formation circulating, it’s tempting to give in to keeping CIP in Willow River but Paid Letter iff’s department, with the right cynicism and confusion and to embrace the belief the other political party can’t be trusted and noth- I didn’t really know what to say 2020 Voter’s Guide equipment. Also, our Veterans ing you see on line is credible. Therefore, there is or who to send it to. Today, I sent and senior citizens should not go no sense in paying attention to any of it. five letters to those she had listed response without services in our county If you see something fake, false or misleading, using her info to write the letter. I that they deserve. do something. Share it with fact-checkers and would urge others to do this also. The following letters to the editor 3. If elected, I will fight for my news outlets. Warn others with a comment or a Maybe we can make a difference. are paid per our paid letter to the district first, that’s why I’m run- reply. Post accurate information and report false Marilyn Criley editor policy. ning for District 4 Commissioner. content and malicious accounts when they violate Sturgeon Lake Editor: My opponent has stated he wants platforms and community standards. Democracy Occupation: to represent all of Pine County, requires nothing less. Show respect I am a small business owner that’s a big difference between I think Adams makes some important points located in Sturgeon Lake, along me and my opponent. I see the as we prepare how we will vote in the coming To the editor, election. These are crazy times we live in, with my wife Kelly of 23 years. big county investments with new There are other important topics which need and people are not always as they I was born and raised on Island buildings in the other districts consideration. They are abortion, climate change, have been, respectful of others. Lake and my wife Kelly from Den- and wonder what kind of invest- criminal justice, education, gun policies, immigra- To the person or persons who ham. We own and operate JJ’s Bot- ments Pine County tax dollars tion and appointing judges. destroyed my political candidate’s tle Shop, Lakes Area Laundromat, could have made up in our district ON THE EDUCATION front we are seeing flag: You could have stopped and and rental housing. I am also a with a commissioner fighting for some families grouping to be able to hire a quali- spoken to me about your candi- second term Pine County Soil and our district first. County re- fied teacher for their children. This is coming out date, their party’s platform or Water District Four Supervisor. sources need to be invested up in of fear of the pandemic in situations where both beliefs. We could have engaged in Three most significant roles or district four, one crisis is the high parents work and must make a choice whether to a calm, logical discussion of why civic involvement: water issues along the shores of send their kids to school or not. By eliminating day care, hiring a teacher or tutor may be able to make we support a candidate. Instead While being on the Pine County Sturgeon Lake, we need to get this the numbers work. you came under cover of dark- Soil and Water District Board for resolved. We need work done on FROM THE MAIL to TV ads, it’s clear that ness like a thief, with your knife eight years, I’ve held positions on our roads, bridges and ditches in on November 3 we have the presidential election and spray paint to vandalize and numerous committees including district four, and the work needs along with a host of other political candidates destroy, like a “thug,” trespassing legislative, forestry, Snake River to be completed on schedule. We seeking national and state positions. I’ve never on private property in an attempt Watershed, budget committee, and need to figure out a way to keep seen so many requests for political assessments to sow fear. public relations. the Willow River C.I.P. operating, which seem to me are often just political donation I will still display my political What are your top three priori- our community cannot afford to requests. candidate’s sign on my land. All ties for the county? lose what has proven to be such a In our newspapers we are presenting Voters’ you accomplished was to re-af- 1. We need to sell the 41,706 acres successful program. Please vote Guides and hope they are helpful in understanding firm my chosen candidate. All of tax forfeited land in our county. for JJ Waldhalm, District Four the local candidates who will be on your respective ballots. Americans have a right to express When a county receives property Commissioner, thank you. Keep the letters to the editor coming. Carefully our views, a right many men and tax from private land ownership, JJ Waldhalm write your opinions on the critical issues our coun- women have fought and died to it doesn’t make sense to have this Sturgeon Lake try, state and local communities are facing. We defend. I refuse to live in fear or enormous amount of land off the have had to start charging a nominal fee for letters to cease in my attempts, along tax roll. This land was once in Editor’s note: JJ Waldhalm submitted his about political topics during election season, so with my neighbors (I have no idea private ownership and produced responses to the voter’s guide questions after the that our editorial pages don’t become overrun of their political stand, nor has it revenue for our county, let’s work newspaper deadline, above are his responses. with propaganda written by campaign staff and ever mattered) as we continue to together across all county districts volunteers.

The Askov American is published every SUBSCRIBE: STAFF: Askov Thursday in Askov, MN 55704 In Pine County: $34 per year. Jeff Andres, Publisher Outside Pine County: $40 per year. Jennifer Yocum-Stans, Managing Periodicals postage paid at Askov, MN 55704 $38 snow bird rate Editor Publication No. 0034-140 $2 discount for those 60 years and older Bev Rodriguez, Editorial Assistant Postal Permit No. 6998886 Joyce Dahl-Tabor, Editorial All subscriptions payable in advance. This is a postal regulation. Assistant, Billing, Subscriptions American POSTMASTER: If undeliverable as addressed, Meliza Hernandez, “The most important thing a notify on Form 3579. CONTACT US: Advertising Sales Periodicals postage paid in Askov, MN 55704 Askov American Lori Schmolke, Employment and community newspaper does Phone: 320-838-3151 Classified Specialist is recognize the value of the The Askov American is a publication of Fax: 320-838-3152 lives of ordinary people.” Northstar Media Inc. Email:[email protected] OFFICE HOURS: Copyright ©2020 Northstar Media, Inc. Address: P.O. Box 275 •6351 Kobmagergade, Askov, MN 55704 Mon-Thur. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday Closed. SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 ASKOV AMERICAN 5 Milk cans good for more than milk Be the one Greetings all. the rails. This summer, they mine was not looking so good Nine years have come and gone since Colette Stadin The freezing temperatures also began moving and dump- at that point. hired me to work for the Askov American. She and over three nights last week ing their livestock tank in This summer, King and Lynn Vongroven were the best teachers. There were took its toll on my garden, the barn. That was a surprise Prince branched out finding so many aspects to learn creating a nothing when I walked in and dis- other uses for my milk cans. weekly paper. The American had sev- survived. I covered a dumped out tank. Banging their hooves on the eral staff members come and go during even man- (They have several other tanks can seems to be King’s favorite, my nine years. Each will be remem- aged to cover outside, so no one went without tipping them over and rolling bered for their role. the garden water.) And last week while I them back and forth is Prince’s 2020 came around and from January each of those was off property, I checked on specialty. But by far, the bang- forward, Bev Rodriguez and I created nights. But, my phone to see what those ing was, in my opinion, their the weekly paper. You couldn’t find two I got enough rascals were up to. That’s favorite feature. They bang on women so contrasting in their view- tomatoes in when I saw an aerial view of the can with their hooves and Joyce points of politics, but Bev and I have Finlayson the freezer, a their confiscation of one of my wait, watching the house to see “made it work.” We’ve had a lot of fun few squash, old milk cans. me come out. I guess it’s their Dahl-Tabor along the way. We have laughed and News etc. I just was Last year, I used milk cans to version of a doorbell, and it laughed, oftentimes at ourselves. As we hoping for block the horses from putting usually works. Askov hear so often in today’s world, “We don’t Maxine a few more their hooves on our fencing by Please, keep you, your family have to agree on everything to be kind weeks. Nope, laying the cans down across and your community safe from News to one another.” Meyer it’s Minne- their favorite begging spot COVID-19 by always wearing I give Bev loads of credit for all the sota — when near the barn gate. It didn’t a mask when you leave home, blood, sweat and tears she has put into the Askov Mother Nature says the grow- take long last winter before use hand sanitizer often and American. Learning the new format was a challenge ing season is done, it’s done. they had enough snow buildup respect social distancing. she overcame and has done this very well. The addi- You have read the many to easily stand on top of those Drop us a line, or call in your tional challenge was teaching me once she figured it stories about my two horses, cans and they were that much news to Maxine, 612/590-6907, out. Hats off to the friend I’ve worked with closely to lately they were throwing closer to stepping over the top or email to mnmaxgram@ bring you the weekly American. sliding doors open — right off of the fence. That great idea of yahoo.com. When I retired from Corrections in 2010, I told my husband I wanted to be published someday. Thanks to working at the Askov American I have been — writ- ing articles and this, the Askov News column. Friends have said they like the phrase I add at the end of my writing. “The world is filled with nice peo- Purse bingo and ATV rides ple. If you can’t find one, BE ONE.” Derrell and Jean Jensen Church to sew masks to send Sunday, Lu Hoiland and welcomed Lyle to the VA in St. Cloud. They Sandy went to Carlton candy and Sandy will meet again this Thursday shopping and had a fun time. Gray Friday to make more. Thursday, the Bruno Aux- and Marvin Saturday, Jeanette Swen- iliary made masks for the Thank Sue Sloper Jensen on son, Nikki Cekalla, Genny St. Cloud Veterans Hospital. Saturday. Swenson, Liz Clausen, Katie Saturday, Al and Sandy’s Hello all, Sunday, Bill Clausen, April Clausen, Lisa daughter Liela and Paul came Last week, Sue Sloper gave me some great information to and Sandy Kuhlman, Hope Anderson and up for the Bear’s Den Veterans pass on in my column about contacting legislators about the Schmidt of Sylvia Schweiger had a fun af- ATV ride. There were a lot of CIP. Because of space in the paper, it was put in as an editorial. Bruno/ Coon Rapids ternoon playing Purse Bingo. people and all seemed to have a That’s great … the word needs to get out. However, I would like and Steve and Doug and Sue Blechinger great time. Sandy also stopped credit to go where credit is due. I did retype it Kerrick Sandy Stano had grandson Bauer Borchardt in to see Tim Williams and his into my article … so, in that way I did help. But of Anoka spend Saturday and Sunday family. I feel that Sue Sloper needs to have the credit Sylvia visited the with them. They enjoyed Remember, if you have any here for that. It’s great that people submit Schweiger Jensens. four-wheeling and working in news to share, please email me news to me to pass on in the column. With- Thursday, the garden, digging potatoes. at: [email protected] or out it, I wouldn’t have a lot of information to the Bruno Last Saturday, Sandy Hoi- call at 320-838-3554. share. I appreciate that a lot. Thank you, Sue American Legion Auxiliary land went to a bridal shower … I sent letters as well. met at Trinity Lutheran for Justin Nos’ fiancee, Amy. The Arrowhead Senior Nutrition has a Willow menu up at the laundromat, post office and at city hall. Menus are subject to change with- River News out notice. Alternate entrees are available on certain days. Call in your request 24 hours in Kathi advance. For more information, go to: www. Bennett aeoa.org and by phone call 218-727-4321. Dwell on the positives Pretty soon we will be getting our mail bal- Dear Tante Ingeborg, Las Vegas when he was 16. He talk to is of primary impor- lots in the mail for the general election. The Yesterday, I was talking to slept in the desert and on park tance. She chats with her pack county will be sending them out September 18. Please do not a friend of mine. She’s a dog benches and when he got to the outside in the fresh air while wait until the last minute to return them. You may also track lover and she lives in the cities. Golden Nugget, the bouncer the pups play. And secondly, them to make sure they get to the courthouse by Election Day. Last night at threw him out. He found out a she enjoys the diversity of her If you want to vote absentee ballot, stop in the courthouse at 8 o’clock, she person had to be 21 to gamble. group no matter what their Pine City and vote. You may also drop them off at the court- was walking He’s a tall fellow even at 92, so backgrounds are. I’d be willing house on Election Day, but they must be received by 8 p.m. around her he must have been pretty big to bet that they have a mixture When filling out the ballot, make sure to use a black ball point neighborhood at 16. The guy is full of wonder- of religious beliefs or maybe pen and fill out the circle completely. Also, remember to sign with her ful stories, and my friend told even no beliefs at all. They your name to the proper signature line on the back of the in- pooch and him to have his kids make a could be all over the chart with side white ballot envelope. You’ll know where to sign because it the young video of him talking about his sexuality and possibly even says “signature” and has an X by it. woman who experiences. color. Doesn’t really matter to At the school: The junior class is selling community calen- lives next door When my friend related them. They’ve probably agreed dars and ads. If you would like to buy a calendar or an ad, find to her was these two incidents to me she that any topics of discussion a junior or contact Ms. Kelly, [email protected]. School picture Ask out for her wondered how we got from be- that might cause discord have day is Wednesday, September 30. This year they will be taking nightly jog. ing able to hitchhike halfway no place at the dog park. It’s photos in the elementary gym. Order sheets and an online Tante The woman across the country without a wonderful that they have order link will be shared next week. They will also share greeted her care in the world, to having to found each other. information for distance learning students and the date for and said she carry a weapon in your hand The only thing I will add by retakes. They have linked two new items on our website, both was staying while running around the way of dispensing advice to under school nurse and “Quicklinks – Parents.” These are the close to home but not to worry, block. your friend is that it’s always COVID-19 Home Screening List and the COVID-19 Decision she was carrying a box cutter. I’m afraid my friend is falling better to light one candle than Tree from the Minnesota Department of Health. They encour- My friend also takes her dog into a deep depression over the to curse the darkness. age you to visit their website for more information. Dates to re- to a dog park where she meets state of the modern situation. I Stay in frequent touch with member: October 13 monthly PTO meeting, October 15 and 16 up with other humans and have no idea how to help her. I your friend and lean on each no school for MEA weekend, November 9 no school, November their doggos. It’s a very diverse feel like crying myself when I other. It would probably be a 20 and 22 are parent /teacher conferences, November 26 and 27 group including the dogs. All stop to think about it. What do good idea if you adopted a dog no school for Thanksgiving. ages and breeds and sizes. The you suppose I should say or do yourself. Good luck with that Legion of Mary meets at the St. Mary’s Center every Monday oldest human in the group is a to help her? and remember, Tante Ingeborg at 6:30 p.m. This is a new time change. Eucharistic Adoration 92-year-old guy whose golden Signed, Donna on Danskevej cares ... but not so much. is scheduled for 1-6 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church. retriever is getting on in years Tante Ingeborg says, The food pantry in front of the Presbyterian Church is open also. The youngster of the hu- Dear Donna, IN LINE WITH ITS SCANDINAVIAN heritage, to everyone. People bring stuff and people take stuff, and that’s man pack will be 40 in a couple I also felt a sense of pain the Askov American has given a couple of locals what it’s all about. People helping people. We go through the of days. There are eight or 10 of when I thought about the situ- the opportunity of authoring an advice column. pantry every once in a while and take out what doesn’t seem them altogether. Only a couple ation as your friend described Management reserves the right to cancel this to be used and put other items in there. We take excess items of the canines were purchased. it. When you talk to her again, column at a moment’s notice, should it become to either the Sandstone, Family Pathways Food Shelf or the The rest of them were rescued. remind her of how lucky filled with lunacy. Remember, this is a family Moose Lake Food Shelf. Everything gets used. Thank you to As the humans were walk- she is to have such a great newspaper. If you have a problem for which you everyone who has brought food. It is greatly appreciated. ing around with their masks group of friends. You actually need questionable advice, contact Ask Tante If you would like to submit some news, please email me at on, the old codger told about formulated a solution to help Ingeborg, care of the Askov American. [email protected] or call 218-372-3562. Please no solic- how he hitchhiked from his your friend without realizing itations. home in rural Minnesota to it. First, having someone to Thanks. Kathi 6 ASKOV AMERICAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 Don’t miss the show on these Wolves, fishing, hunting

DEPARTMENT OF N ATURAL RESOURCES 26. The duck season structure this year is similar to recent Minnesota state forest fall color drives Registration is open for virtual years. The waterfowl seasons are open houses that will offer based on a federal framework MINNESOTA DNR NEWS first-served basis for $14 a night. Dispersed opportunities for people to hear that applies to all states in the camping is also allowed in state forests at no about wolves in Minnesota and Mississippi Flyway. Regulations Minnesota’s state forests offer scenic drives cost. share their thoughts as the Min- for waterfowl hunting, including and 4.2 million acres showcasing one of the Use the DNR’s Fall Color Finder to find nesota Department of Natural Canada goose, sandhill crane biggest nature shows each year — the fall areas in Minnesota with peak fall color. Resources updates the state’s and other migratory bird hunt- color display. The color finder is updated weekly through 20-year-old wolf management ing, are available wherever DNR “Overall, fall colors this year should be October. plan. licenses are sold and on the DNR especially lovely if the recent sunny days and The open houses will include waterfowl hunting page. chilly, but not freezing, nights continue,” said informational presentations Contact: Steve Cordts, water- Val Cervenka, forest health program con- from the DNR and allow real- fowl specialist, 218-308-2281. sultant with the Minnesota Department of time public input and Q&A. Each Teach a kid to hunt small game Natural Resources. open house takes place from 6-8 during “Take a Kid Hunting p.m. and will focus on a particu- Weekend.” Every fall color season is different and so is lar geographic area. Getting youth outdoors in each of Minnesota’s 59 state forests. Depend- Northwest region: Tuesday, pursuit of squirrels, rabbits and ing on the forest, visitors might see a spec- September 29; Central and south- other small game is the focus of tacular mix of dark evergreens amid vivid ern region, including Twin Cit- Take a Kid Hunting Weekend autumn hues of maples, oaks and aspens, set ies metro area: Tuesday, October on Saturday, September 26, and against a backdrop of bluffs, lakes or winding 6; Northeast region: Thursday, Sunday, September 27. During rivers. October 8. the weekend, adult Minnesota These drives are always a treat, but this Attendees must register for the residents accompanied by a year in particular they are a wonderful, so- open houses on the DNR web- youth younger than age 16 cially-distanced opportunity for Minnesotans site and are encouraged submit may hunt small game without to experience the outdoors. questions in advance on their a license, although they must Here is a list of five forest drives to consider registration form. comply with open seasons, limits this fall — including suggestions for things to Members of the public will also and other regulations. see and do along the way. Visit the state forest be able to share their thoughts Hunting small game is a great scenic drives website for route directions and about wolf management by way to introduce kids to hunting. more details. commenting on the DNR website Kids learn how to search for Mid-late September from Tuesday, September 29, game sign, properly handle fire- Smoky Hills State Forest in the northwest. through Sunday, November 1. arms and access hunting land— Bear Island State Forest in the northeast. Contact: Dan Stark, wolf man- all without too much time sitting Early October agement specialist, 218-328-8871. still and being quiet. Anyone Rum River State Forest in central Minne- Later in the process, the public who wants to learn how to hunt sota. will have an opportunity to can find helpful how-to guides on St. Croix State Forest and Nemadji State comment on draft updates to the the DNR website. For more infor- Forest loop in central Minnesota. state’s wolf management plan. mation on small game hunting Mid-October The DNR anticipates releasing and hunting regulations, visit Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State the draft plan for comment later the small game hunting page. Forest in the south. this year. Contact: James Burnham, Check out the state forests website to plan a CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Minnesota’s regular waterfowl hunting and angling recruit- visit. Entrance into state forests is free. State season opens a half-hour before ment, retention and reactivation forest campsites are available on a first-come, A blaze of autumn colors abounds at this time. sunrise on Saturday, September coordinator, 651-259-5191.

A safe economic boost for Minnesota

Enbridge’s Line 3 Replacement Project will create thousands It will bring extra county tax revenue for many years to come. of family-supporting jobs. And it will mean a secure and steady supply of North American oil that fuels Minnesotans’ quality of life. This project is a $2.6 billion private investment in the state of Minnesota—an economic boost for local communities We’re focused on safety. And we’re ready to get to work. during construction. Learn more at enbridge.com/Line3US. Tribal communities will benefit directly from $100 million in Tribal-affiliated work opportunities—including training, contracting, procurement and hiring from Tribes.

SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 ASKOV AMERICAN 7

PHOTO BY FAITH PETERSON

MDANPractice starts ads Monday, to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 9/20/2020 Central September 28 for the MLWR Sat. September 26th! Rebels, with their first game scheduled on October 9 CELEBRATE FALL AT THE VP! against International Falls Music & Market starts at 3! at home. The Vintage Pub Patio Is

The team voted for captains Where You’ll Want To Be! at a team meeting. L-R: Wolf Creek Band Blake Juhl, Mason Olson, Nathan Frazer and Friends Adam Olson and Brady Octoberfest Brews andWolf Watrin, all seniors. Creek Specialty S andwiches! Band

Craft Beer, Wine & Nathan Kettle River Pizza! and Weather Permitting Friends Check fb for updates Nathan

Downtown Askov , MN Frazer

MLWR football team votes for captains, schedule starts October 9 Eagles football, volleyball season approved

BY MARY ELLEN DEWEY season. In the framework approved 23. EC Eagles face the Rush City [email protected] by the board, two-weeks of post- Tigers at Rush City on October season play would begin the week 30. Northwoods will travel to East The Minnesota State High of November 30. Spectators will Central on November 6. Their School League (MSHSL) Board of not be allowed in the gym. Head last home game will be at home Directors voted Monday to approve Volleyball Coach is Marki Hansen, against Barnum on November returning football (voting 15-3) and assisted by Kari Priske. 13. Playoffs will be decided by the volleyball (voting 14-4) to the Fall The EC football team will have MSHSL Board of Directors at their activities season. Practices will a 10-week season with six regular October 1st meeting. As of now, start on Monday, September 28. season games beginning October 9. 250 spectators will be allowed at The East Central volleyball The Eagles games will be against the football games. Head Football schedule will be completed some- the other teams in their Dis- Coach Darrin Kvam is assisted by time this week, with games be- trict-Northeast Conference. Eagles Todd Lindstrom, Mark Nelson and ginning on October 8. EC is in the are in the Minnesota Class 7A Matt Apple. Great River Conference along with Section. The gridiron schedule has If the school is placed in distance Braham, Hinckley-Finlayson, Isle, the Eagles on the road October 9 learning because of coronavirus Ogilvie, Onamia, Pine City and in Deer River and at Hinckley-Fin- extracurricular activities events Rush City. They will play 14 con- layson on Thursday, October 15. will not take place. ference games in an eleven-week They will host Braham on October

East Central Cross County Moose Lake Willow River The client requests that this ad not be September 15 at Mille Lacs Invitational Barnum Cross County - Isle September 17 at Chub Lake Triangular #2 adjusted to fit your columns. If the ad is too narrow, please float the ad. Thanks! 5000 METER RUN 5K RUN Varsity runners capture first place over Boys Varsity: Maverick Koecher, Maverick Safer, easier and Hinckley- Koecher, 1st, 17:52; Shawn Bailey, 5th, 19:25; Finlayson Joseph Mikrot, 8th, 19:28; Conner Clausen, more important Boys Varsity: Tyler Thorvig, 1st, 19:46; 9th, 19:55; Jonathan Danelski, 10th, 20:03.15; Clayton Nelson, 2nd, 21:25; Jacob Ackerman, Ryden Anderson, 20:44; Gavin Thiry, 20:48; than ever. 34d, 21:48; Chance Clark, 4th, 21:51; Bryce Zach Youngs, 21:44. McClain, 9th, 22:36. Girls Varsity: Rayna Klejeski, 6th, 23:16; Girls Varsity: Jemi Keranen,3rd, 22:42; Cas- Shannon Grandquist, 7th, 23:24; Lilly Petty, sidee Thorvig, 5th, 24:35; Isabella Olson, 27:12; 23:46; Kelli Granquist, 24:12; Kyra Heaton, More ads on next page> Rebcca Wiener, 29:20. 24:42; Ella Heaton, 25:32; Elle Nielsen, 26:17; Boys Jr. Varsity: Jim Bowen, 1st, 23:21; Lillia Jordon, 27:10. Andrew McClain, 7th, 27:47; Payton Mar- Boys Jr. Varsity: Adam Neumann, 1st, 20:28; shall, 8th, 30:51; Damien Bowen, 9th, 30:52; Daniel Mikrot, 6th, 21:59. Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Minnesota Display Ad Network program by running Page 1 of 2 Ramsey Keranen, 35:46. Girls Jr. Varsity: Brooklyn Wasche, 1st, 27:12; these ads in the main news section of your newspaper (not the classified section of your newspa- The Girls Jr. Varsity: Arabella Presley, 1st, 26:01; Delaney Koecher, 27:22. Minnesota Mazie Gebhart, 5th, 31.24; Lily Ludwig, 6th, per). At times, advertisers may request a specific section. However, the decision is ultimately up to 31:34, Ava Gutknecht, 8th, 35:04; Gracie Hartl, each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased slightly in size to fit your column sizes. 36:29. Welia Health Announces Drive-thru Flu Clinics 2400 METER RUN Please do not bill for these ads. If you have questions, please call MNA at 800/279-2979. Thank you. Display Ad Boys Jr. High: Curtis McClain, 1st, 10:14; Levi Network Kosbab, 5th, 11:35. This year more than ever, it’s critical you protect yourself Girls Jr. High: Brooke Cekalla, 1st, 11:59; Mal- and your family against the flu.The CDC recommends a flu lory Hartl, 5th, 12:50; Madison Kuhlman, 16:18. shot for everyone six months and older. Think of this as your chance to help your community lessen the severity of the flu season. Public health officials say this Hinckley Elementary is essential for healthcare organizations like Welia Health anticipating a one-two punch of respiratory illnesses this year, moves to distance learning seasonal flu and COVID-19. We’ve made it easier than ever with drive-thru flu shot clinics. BY JENNIFER YOCUM-STANS decision that HES will move into dis- [email protected] tance learning through Friday, October Hinckley Pine City Mora 2, reopening on Monday, October 5. 620 Sandy Ln 1425 Main St N 301 Highway 65 S After several staff members tested The other buildings in the district are Thursday, Oct 1 Thursday, Oct 8 Saturday, Oct 10 positive for COVID-19 on Monday, scheduled to reopen on Wednesday, September 21, Hinckley-Finlayson September 23. Notices were sent out Open 4-6 pm Open 4-6 pm Open 9-11am (H-F) Schools were closed on Tuesday, to parents if their child was in contact September 22. This included Hinckley with someone who tested positive. While appointments aren’t required, masks are. Safety first. Elementary (HES), the H-F High Last week, the elementary school School, Finlayson Elementary, Pine reported a positive case and the entire Follows signs to registration tents and stay in your vehicle. County Transition, Empower and New classroom was set to be quarantined for No out-of-pocket cost with most insurance. Direction. approximately two weeks. After consulting with PIne County Staff was busy disinfecting and plan- WeliaHealth.org Public Health, the district made the ning for distance learning on Tuesday. Welia Health is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 8 ASKOV AMERICAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 Mix up a quick mix Apply to become There was a time when making 2 teaspoons salt In a small bowl, combine ses- your own mixes was done to save 2 teaspoons pepper ame seeds, poppy seeds, onion, master gardener money or control the ingredients 1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder garlic, onion powder, garlic pow- used. Nowadays, In a small bowl, combine der and salt. Store in an airtight UMN EXTENSION PINE COUNTY In Kanabec County, making your own minced onion, parsley, paprika, container at room temperature. contact the Kelsey mixes might be sugar, salt, pepper and garlic Makes about 6 tablespoons. October 1st is the dead- Schiferli at the Kanabec out of necessity powder. Store in an airtight Homemade Bisquick-Style line to apply to become County Extension office, when trips to the container in a cool, dry place for Baking Mix a master gardener. To at the Courthouse in store are infre- up to 1 year. To prepare dip: In a 1 cup all-purpose flour apply in Pine County con- Mora at 320-679-6440. In quent or when bowl, combine 1 tablespoon mix 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder tact Terry Salmela at the Isanti County, contact store supplies are and 1 cup sour cream; refrigerate 1/4 teaspoon salt Pine County Extension Rod Greder at the Isanti low. for at least 1 hour before serving. 1 tablespoon butter office at the Courthouse County Extension office, Practical Homemade Makes six 1-tablespoon servings. Sift flour into a bowl; add bak- in Pine City at 800-657- at the Courthouse in Ranch Dressing Homemade everything but the ing powder and salt and whisk 3813 Ext. #3 or email: Cambridge at 763-689- Pantry Mix Bagel Seasoning until fully incorporated. Cut but- [email protected] 1810. 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon sesame seeds ter into flour mixture using a pas- Tammy J. plus 2 teaspoons 1 tablespoon poppy seeds try cutter until evenly combined. dried 1 tablespoon dried minced onion Mix can be stored in the freezer. Olson minced onion 1 tablespoon dried minced Makes four 1-cup servings. 1 tablespoon garlic Pantry Pointers Practice dried parsley 1 tablespoon onion powder Homemade mixes, when pack- 2-1/2 teaspoons paprika 1 tablespoon garlic powder aged nicely in jars or food-safe 2 teaspoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon sea salt cellophane, make nice gifts. crosswalk safety Question: My family and I have concerns about crosswalk safety due to traffic not stopping and pedestrians not knowing what to do. Can you share how best to navigate such a crosswalk for October begins, ends both motorists and pedestrians? Answer: Minnesota State Statute defines “Crosswalk” as any portion of a roadway distinctly indicated for pedestrian crossing by lines or other markings on the surface. The dic- with full moon tionary definition is “a marked path The first rises the evening of the 1st, only about by the planet early in the month, passing closest where people can safely walk across a three hours past the exact moment on the 2nd and 3rd. On the 13th and 14th, waning street or road.” of fullness. Following it into the crescent moons join Venus. All month long, look off Crosswalks involve pedestrians eastern sky is Mars, now too bright to the west of Venus to see brilliant Sirius shining and motor vehicles — the literal two- to be washed out by any lunar luster. from its berth in Canis Major, the big dog. This year Ask a way street. That means everyone in- Over to the south, brilliant Jupiter October and November give us a great chance to Trooper volved — pedestrian and driver must and dimmer Saturn are drawing compare Venus, the brightest planet, with Sirius, the share the road. Each person has their nearer, en route to a close encounter brightest star in the night sky. But it will be easier Sgt. Neil part in personal responsibility and in December. this month because the two will be closer. accountability. Failure to yield the The night of the 2nd, Mars and October’s second full moon shines the night of the Dickenson right-of-way and driver/pedestrian the waning moon rise and travel 30th-31st. The second full moon in a month is often inattention/distraction are the main Minnesota the night sky together. On the 13th, called a blue moon, but the original definition was contributing factors in pedestrian Earth laps Mars in the orbital race, the third of four full moons occurring in a single crashes. A few simple rules of the road can help get us Starwatch all home safely at the end of the day: passing a mere 38.6 million miles season. By that definition, we’ll see our next blue Safety Tips for Drivers from the red planet. That night Mars moon on August 22, 2021. Deane •Scan the road and sidewalks ahead for pedestri- shines down from the constellation October bids farewell with Halloween, an astro- ans. Drive attentively and at safe speeds. Remember, Morrison Pisces, where no bright stars will be nomically based holiday. To the ancient Celts it was pedestrians can be difficult to see, especially in bad close enough to rival its splendor. known as Samhain, one of four cross-quarter days weather or at night. Above and slightly west of Mars, the Great Square falling midway between an equinox and a solstice. •Anticipate pedestrians especially in urban areas, of Pegasus is now in prime viewing position. Look It began at sundown on October 31st, when all the around schools and colleges. below it on a moonless night and see if you can find evil spirits that had been cooped up since May Day •Before making a turn, look in all directions for the ringlike Circlet of Pisces, representing one of were released to wreak havoc on humankind. People Week of September 20, 2020 pedestrians. two fishes in the constellation. lit lanterns in gourds to ward them off and left food •Look carefully behind your vehicle before backing InSTATEWIDE the predawn sky, Venus dazzles Central in the east. Southofferings Northto appease them—traditions Metro that survive up, especially for small children. Watch the bright star Regulus, in Leo, the lion, glide in jack o’ lanterns and trick-or-treating. •Watch for people in wheelchairs and motorized carts, who may be below eye level. •Stop for crossing pedestrians at every intersection, even those without crosswalks or stoplights. Stop far enough back so drivers in other lanes can also see the pedestrian in time to stop. •Do not block crosswalks while stopped, and don’t pass other vehicles stopped for pedestrians. Drive smart by slowing down in neighborhoods and always EMPLOYMENT MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS park the phone, it’s the law! 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Askov American Pedestrian Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility. Now available mailed or online. IF YOU have any questions concerning traffic related laws in Minnesota, please send your questions to: Sgt. Neil Dickenson – Minnesota State Patrol at 1131 [email protected] Mesaba Ave Duluth, MN 55811, or at [email protected] SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 ASKOV AMERICAN 9 Early voting begins in Pine County PUBLIC NOTICES BY MIKE GAINOR the Saturday before the election, which is October [email protected] 31, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Then on November 2, the CITIES/TOWNSHIPS day before the election, we’re actually open from 8 It’s already time to vote in Pine County. a.m. to 5 p.m. for absentee voting as well. CITY SUMMARY BUDGET STATEMENT Pine County Auditor-Treasurer Kelly Schroeder Unregistered voters can register to do so at the City of Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota said that voters have a number of options open to courthouse when they come in to vote. The purpose of this report is to provide summary 2021 budget them this year. Though Election Day is November 3 “If you are already registered to vote, you do not information concerning the City of Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota to — and the regular polling places will be open at that need to bring in an ID,” Schroeder said. “If you’re interested citizens. The budget is published in accordance with time — absentee voting and early in-person voting at not registered to vote, then yes — you need to bring Minn. Stat. Sec. 471.6965. This budget is not complete. The the Pine County Courthouse began on September 18. in an ID that has your current address or if you have complete budget may be examined at City Hall, 3084 Farm to an ID that does not have your current address, you Market Road, Sturgeon Lake, MN. The city council approved this ABSENTEE VOTING would need to bring in a bill that has been mailed to budget on September 8, 2020. Voters must request an absentee ballot. Pine your current address within 30 days.” 2020 Actual County voters can call the courthouse at 320-591-1670 General Fund 2020 Budget 8/31/2019 2021Budget to request an absentee ballot application. They may POLLING PLACES OPEN ON NOV. 3 REVENUES fax their voter registration applications or absentee Schroeder said that her office has received calls Property Tax $198,000.00 $117,160.00 $198,000.00 ballot applications to 320-591-1671. They may also from voters concerned that their regular polling Special Assessments 10,000.00 14,247.15 13,864.00 email [email protected] or mail them (or place would not be open on November 3, and she Licenses & Permits 1,624.00 5,839.00 4,700.00 bring them) to: Pine County Auditor’s Office, 635 wanted to allay that fear. LGA 60,906.00 30,564.00 64,555.00 Charges for Services 407,444.00 209,757.00 341,550.00 Northridge Dr NW, Suite 240, Pine City, MN 55063 “All the regular polling places are open on Novem- Other intergovernmental “We mail them their ballot, and then they either ber 3 as well,” Schroeder said. “That is a good thing Revenue 6,400.00 0.00 300.00 mail it back to us — or they could drop it off to us,” to know — you don’t have to vote by mail or absen- Interest Earnings 6,500.00 1,801.00 3,125.00 Schroeder said. “They can drop it off at our counter, tee. You can still go to your regular polling place, Miscellaneous 500.00 675.00 4,000.00 they could drop it off in the drop box outside the and we have a lot of COVID precautions in place at TOTAL REVENUE $691,374.00 $380,043.15 $630,094.00 courthouse. Whatever is easiest for them. When they those polling places, like plexiglass and hand sani- mail it back, it has to be postmarked by Election Day, tizer and masks.” EXPENDITURES November 3. And then we’ll count it as long as we General Government $119,190.00 $29,792.00 $117,115.00 receive it by November 10, which is new this year. ELECTION SECURITY #1 PRIORITY Public Safety 25,155.00 9,777.00 20,623.00 We used to just have to receive it by Election Day, but Schroeder said that all ballots received before the Streets/Public Works 72,758.00 20,696.00 62,929.00 they’ve extended that timeline.” election will be kept under lock and key in the Pine Culture & Recreation 2,590.00 245.00 1,240.00 County courthouse until they can be counted. Miscellaneous 2,000.00 64.00 200.00 EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING “My big message to folks is that election security Debt Service-principal 258,000.00 258,000.00 262,000.00 Pine County voters who prefer to vote in-person is our number one priority,” Schroeder said. “It is Interest Charges 69,405.00 69,407.00 65,951.70 but want to do so before Election Day can vote at the something we are very aware of, and are constantly TOTAL EXPENDITURE $549,098.00 387,981.00 530,058.70 Pine County Courthouse. addressing any concerns or questions. The likeli- (Published in the Askov American September 24, 2020) “They can do that in person, here at the court- hood of someone fraudulently voting is very low — house (635 Northridge Drive NW),” Schroeder said. not only in Pine County, but across the “We’re open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. We are open 2020-21 informing them of the obstacles. SNOWPLOWING NOTICE The homeowner will be given Sturgeon Lake Township a 30 day notice to remove Notice is hereby given: The these obstacles. If they are not Town Board of Sturgeon Lake removed, the driveway will not Township has set the fee for be snowplowed. The township Workshops for farmers snowplowing a private driveway will not be held responsible for GARDEN: at $35.00 each time and a any damages that may occur FROM PG 1 deposit of $140.00 is required when snowplowing a private by November 1st, 2020. If the driveway. and horticulture. Some of those projects can basics plus much more. The landowners will get to deposit is received after the 1st Please send your include Horticulture Day, community education hear from experts and learn from their peers. of November, 2020, deadline: snowplowing deposit to classes, community garden, elementary youth Instructors will address topics including: what do the fee for snowplowing a Sturgeon Lake Township, gardening, gardening information booths, demon- you have and what do you want, what you can do driveway will increase to $40.00 86917 Spring Creek Road, stration gardens, a plant sale, newspaper columns with your land, protecting water quality, what to do each time and a deposit of Willow River, MN 55795. If you and others. about weeds, pasture management, getting down $160.00 will be required. would like to know the balance In Pine County, anyone interested in becoming and dirty with soils, caring for and managing your If the township has completed on your account or have any a master gardener should apply by October 1 by animals, and discuss many legal aspects affecting snowplowing of township questions in regards to this contacting Terry Salmela at the Pine County Exten- farm operations. The series also includes farm tours roads and driveways and a notice, please notify the clerk at sion office at the courthouse in Pine City at email: and a farmer panel discussion. resident requests to have their 218-658-4437. [email protected] or 800-657-3813 Ext. 3. Classes will meet weekly (in-person or online) for driveway snowplowed, the fee This notice is given by WORKSHOPS FOR FARMERS eight weeks starting October 21. The in-person meet- for snowplowing their driveway my hand on this 17th day of Starting October 21, University of Minnesota Ex- ing location is yet to be determined, and all social will be $80.00. This fee will be September, 2020. tension will equip local farmers — and those inter- distancing guidelines will be followed. Many ses- charged each time this occurs. Nedene Kuhlman, Clerk ested in a career in farming — with education and sions will be online for safety reasons and to lessen The township reserves the Sturgeon Lake Township resources to help them become successful. travel demands. right to not plow driveways that (Published in the Askov An eight-week course starting October 21 is For more information and to register contact Rod have obstacles in the way of American September 17 & 24, designed to provide rural landowners with infor- Greder at 320-591-1662, or email gred0014@umn. grader. The township will contact 2020) the homeowner by a letter mation and resources to enable them to be good edu. To see the course brochure and to register, go to stewards of their land. The course will begin with https://z.umn.edu/SmallFarmRegistration. Follow goal-setting and individual property inventory, then https://www.facebook.com/pine.county.extension HINCKLEY-FINLAYSON SCHOOLS address soil, plant, water and animal management for course updates. Hinckley-Finlayson Public Schools Official Meeting Minutes I.S.D. 2165 September 14, 2020 The Hinckley-Finlayson School Board held its regular meeting at 7:00 pm at Hinckley-Finlayson High School. Members present were: The art of giving political speeches Chair Steve Grinsteinner, Vice Chair Jodi Storlie, Clerk Mary Ellen VonRueden, Treasurer Leo Irlbeck, Director Angela Grochowski, LEE H. HAMILTON give and take. So did John McCormack from Mas- Director Shelly Skaff, Director David Ubl and Superintendent Rob SR. ADVISOR-INDIANA UNIVERSITY CENTER sachusetts, House Speaker during the 1960s. Very Prater, Hinckley News Rep. Jennifer Yocum-Stans, Union Rep quick on the draw, he would turn to his adversary Erich Ricter, Technology Leisa Knuaf, HES/FES Principal Bonnie I was talking to a friend not long ago who was in debate and say something like, “I hold the gentle- Scullard, HFHS Principal Brian Masterson, Activities Director Cheryl pretty down on politics in all its forms. “I actually man in minimum high regard,” to the amusement of Bjerke, Community Ed Director Becky Maki, Student Reps Brady Johnson & Audrey Storlie and Marc Johnnson ECMECC. find real enjoyment in politics,” I told him. He asked everyone around. He loved being in the fray. Agenda if I was nuts. Edith Green, from Oregon, had been a school- Motion by VonRueden, second by Grochowski to approve the No, I said, there’s a lot of pleasure — even joy — to teacher before coming to Congress, and she carried agenda. Motion Carried be found in participating. Case in point: getting the those skills with her to the House. In a sense, she Open Forum - None chance to listen to gifted speakers. For many years, made the House her classroom, and when she had Consent Agenda I was fortunate to have a seat on the floor of the U.S. the mic, she was engaging but firm as she battled to A. Minutes- Special Board Meeting August 24, 2020 House of Representatives, which gave me a chance to advance women’s issues and social reform. B. Bank Accounts- 8/31/2020 observe some of the best orators in the nation. Mo Udall of Arizona took a different approach: Total District Funds $6,056,069.89. For instance, there was Hale Boggs from Louisi- He believed you should have a good time while you Total District Funds w/o Bonds $ 4,522,049.17. Compares to August 2019 ana, who was in many ways like an actor; you could participated in serious subjects. He made you want Total District Funds $9,418,724.21. listen and relax in the knowledge that you were to listen because it was so enjoyable to do so. Total District Funds w/o Bonds $ 4,698,080.01. in the hands of a master. And Carl Albert, from Oratory may come in different packages. But the C. Employment - Oklahoma, never referred to notes; he could speak chance to watch great communicators at work gives 1. Karen Matson, FES Para-professional 6.25 hours per day. knowledgeably and cogently on any legislation. you a better sense of who they are, why they have Range IV, Step 0, $15.98 hourly. Replaces Jamie Erickson. When John Lewis, the Georgia congressman succeeded, and why our multi-faceted political sys- Probationary period until December 8, 2020. Effective September and civil rights icon, took the floor, people stopped tem is so interesting, engaging, and important. 8, 2020. whatever they were doing to listen. He had a gift for Lee Hamilton is a Senior Advisor for the Indiana 2. Kristopher Olson, HFHS Science Teacher. BA step 1- $42,555. elevating any particular issue to a higher plane that University Center on Representative Government; Replaces Dennis Boxrud. Effective August 31, 2020. Memorandum called on people to remember the best in their nation a Distinguished Scholar at the IU Hamilton Lugar of Understanding for 6th class. 3. Laura Gustafson, HES Para-professional 6.25 hours per and in themselves. School of Global and International Studies; and a day. Step 6 Range IV $18.72 per hour. Start date 9/8/2020. Republican John Anderson of Illinois took a Professor of Practice at the IU O’Neill School of Public Replaces David Bloemendaal. Effective Date September 8, 2020. different approach. He wasn’t so much an orator as a and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the Probationary period until December 8, 2020. superb debater, and had a great fondness for verbal U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years. SEE SCHOOL, PAGE 10 10 ASKOV AMERICAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2020

FROM SCHOOL, PAGE 9 PUBLICno under/over staffing in Areas. NOTICES We are closely monitoring distance principal if there are health concerns that warrant this. learning vs in person learning this year to ensure that resources are C. Bus stop policy update- 4. Alexis Petite, HFHS para-professional & Custodian combination being maximized and distributed equitably. Policy #712 - bus stop. Recommend moving one of the two bus position, 8 hours per day. $15.98. Effective September 8, 2020. Admin Actions- stops from Hwy 18 and School Street to Front St and 2nd Ave in This position was created by board action to allow for more Superintendent and Finance Coordinator attend levy information Finlayson. No families are currently using the HWY 18 stop and we cleaning/disinfecting/student support. Effective September 8, 2020. sessions and begin analyzing early levy projections have a family closer to the Front street stop that wishes to have a Probationary period until December 8, 2020. Levy certification system on the MDE website. Monitor class size. shorter walk for elementary students coming from Hinckley. 5. Ann Reyelts, HES Teacher. BA step 6- $45,656. This position School Board Actions- Motion by Grinsteinner, second by Skaff to move the current Hwy was originally dedicated for special education but was re-allocated Examine annual budget planning calendar at the regular board 18 stop closer to Front St. Motion Carried. due to distance learning needs. Effective August 31, 2020. meeting. D. Preliminary Levy- Levy has not been released yet. If it is 6. Morgan Colson, HES Special Education Teacher. BA step Review first day of school enrollment count/ compare to previous released by board meeting this will be updated. If it is not released 1- $42,555. Replaces Keith Linzmeier. Effective August 31, 2020. years (new business). we will need to hold a special board meeting to approve the levy. It 7. Howard Hodena, HFHS Para-professional 6.25 hours per day. School Board adopts preliminary levy for property taxes payable is released by our board meeting about 80% of the time. Range IV, step 0 $15.98. Position replaces Stephanie Gregoire (on 2019 (if possible). Levy reminder From 2019 leave). Position effective September 8, 2020 through December Note: Certify the maximum levy, the levy can be lowered but not Each September the board must take action on the “preliminary 22, 2020. raised after Sept. 30. levy”. ISD #2165, along with almost every school district in 8. Adjustment. Brett Bartkey HES Teacher $2,500 “6th class Other budget notes- The annual audit will begin October 7. Minnesota typically accepts the “maximum levy” in September. The overload” pay to accommodate distance learning. B. Facilities update - preliminary levy cannot be increased, unless there is an accounting 9. Adjustment. Bob Crawford FES Custodian. From 6.5 hours daily Solar project is installed. We have testing scheduled for 9/17 error. Our board has a history of adopting a lower final levy on years to 8 hours daily to accommodate extra cleaning and disinfecting. and training to track information will be scheduled soon. We will be when the levy increases and a maximum when the levy decreases. Effective August 31, 2020. able to track our savings over time. We have not made progress Tax levy comparison with local school districts. 10. Adjustment. Joe Ranger HFHS Science Teacher $2,500 “6th on the bus garage. All facilities resources were used to set up a From September through December the board will: class overload” pay to accommodate extra class created due to safe reopening. High school north parking lot is now shedding Discuss all of the categories and subcategories of levies. combining two science positions. water much better. Our last item will be to apply a material that Analyze tax impact. 11. Adjustment. Alyssa Prater Empower Learning Center Teacher sheds water from the former sidewalk area and is more visually View the effect on the school district budget of various scenarios. from 0.9 FTE to 1.0 FTE pay to accommodate distance learning. pleasing. High school main office parking. Spaces have been added Compare levy and tax rates with other local school districts. 12. Adjustment. Brad Jensen Empower Learning Center Teacher to the east of HFHS. We will be removing some of the handicap View state aid associated with various levy options. $2,500 “6th class overload” pay to accommodate distance learning. spaces. We have word from the state that we have more than is Maximum levy (2019-20) $2,560,091.97. 13. Christeva Perrotti, Empower Learning Center Para- required. There is limited guest parking at the main HFHS entrance. Approved levy (2019-20) $2,519,055.21. professional 24 hours per week. Step 0, Range IV $15.98 hourly. Finlayson north parking lot and playground. The project is approved Maximum levy (2020-21) $2,290,191.23 (0.9% decrease). Replaces Randy Henkel. Probationary period until December 1, and quoted but we do not know a timeframe for completion yet. It is Approved levy (2020-21). 2020. Effective August 31, 2020. possible this will not be done until spring. Recommend initial approval of levy “maximum”. We will work on 14. Pam Riggle, HES para-professional & Custodian combination C. Pine County Education Center- the levy monthly until final approval December 14, 2020. position, 8 hours per day. $15.98. Effective September 8, 2020. This Discussion was taken on the PIne County Education Center. No Motion by VonRueden, second by Irlbeck for initial approval of position was created by board action to allow for more cleaning/ action was taken. levy maximum. Motion Carried. disinfecting/student support. Probationary period until December D. Re-opening Committee/Distance Learning update- E. Policy Review- 8, 2020. The Re-opening committee has decided to table the discussion Title IX Nondiscrimination - first reading 15. Jacob France, Board washer HES. 2 hours per day. $10 per on recommending a change to the open enrollment policy. By F. First Day/Week of School Update- hour. Effective date September 9, 2020. statute we must close certain programs or the entire district to Opening School Numbers- D. Resignations- open enrollment. The statute does not allow for special exemptions Year Total HES FES HFHS ALP/Empower 1. Deb Hekrdle, Head Cook, effective May 28, 2021. Retirement. due to the Coronavirus. We are not currently seeing more or less 2020 976 469 69 419 19 2. Randy Henkel, Empower Para-professional. Effective August open enrollment than is typical. We will require students to enroll 2019 982/41 475/41 76 404 27 28, 2020. in distance learning for two weeks and ask them to self-quarantine 2018 939/981 445/42 75 391 21 3. Gary McFarland, HFHS Custodian. Effective September 11, if they are coming from a district that has had COVID-19 cases in 2017 972/995 479 70 395 18 2020. the last two weeks. It appears that other school districts are going 2016 969 481 77 400 11 (7 waitlisted) 4. Steve Grimm, C Team basketball coach. to work with us and follow a similar program. Verbal update will be 2015 958 479 67 401 11 E. Lane Changes- provided on progress of the committee. Committee will meet weekly, 2014 958 481 72 405 0 1. Beth Cuchna, MA + 20 to MA + 30. Transcript documented. Friday mornings at 7:00 AM until further notice. a. Enrollment is down from last year. We predicted to start the 2. Annie France, BA to BA + 20. Transcript documented. We currently have 106 students distance learning in the year with 980 students currently we have four less students than F. Request for Leave- elementary level. predicted. 1. David Bloemendaal, HES Para-professional. September 8, PreK: 3 Students, one teacher i. Voluntary Pre-K funding is approved only through this year- 2020 through November 7, 2020. FMLA, need documented. K-1: 26 Students, one teacher numbers are stable. 2. Katie Hagen, Maternity Leave, January 4, 2020 through March 2-3: 25 Students, one teacher ii. ALP is still enrolling students. 29, 2020. Medical need documented. 4-6: 39 Students, one teacher (teacher is also doing some in iii. Transitions is at 13 students but not included on this enrollment Motion by Irlbeck, second by Staff to approve the consent person interventions). as the students are not considered Hinckley-Finlayson students but agenda. Motion Carried. FES: 16 Students, one teacher SCRED students. Bills Board Bills for September Meeting 7-12: 65 Students, two teachers (both teachers have a full iv. High school is up in enrollment. Motion by Grinsteinner, second by VonRueden to approve enrollment of in person students). v. HES is down slightly. payment of bills as presented. Motion Carried. We have asked families to only switch between distance and in vi. FES is down- this school was affected by movement to Reports person learning at mid-quarter and quarter times as the curriculum homeschool more than the other schools. Marc Johnson from ECMECC gave a presentation on the value and teachers will be different. For medical emergencies we will b. Smooth opening so far. Student and staff morale is positive. of ECMECC, ITV opportunities and discounts with the cooperative. allow faster moves. Buildings are amazingly clean, especially considering the limited Superintendent Rob Prater gave updates on his upcoming Currently, we have received 24 Intent to Homeschool letters, they time that was provided due to reopening planning. meetings, board meeting and board attendance at conferences. He have until October 1 to turn them in. c. Lunch update- Julie has focused on lunch applications and talked about the Christmas Breakfast and new staff updates. We are anticipating that our numbers will be about the same as we have received several electronic lunch applications. We are High School Principal Brian Masterson introduced Student Board last year (50). concerned about collecting these. members Brady Johnson and Audrey Sotrlie. He reported on the New Business d. Transportation has had very few issues. success of workshop week and the well attended distance learning A. Jaguar Pride G. School Board Goal progress- family meeting. He gave updates on the first week of school, 1. The re-opening committee for hard work, well done- Alyssa Board goals 2020- 21 homecoming and class sizes as of 9/9/2020. He asked the board if Vickstrom, Kristie Ronchetti, Tony Stiel, Laura Schmitz, Liz Conway, H. Substitute Teacher pay and incentive- they should move forward with the Jr/Sr class trip. Brady Johnson, Audrey Storlie, Bonnie Scullard, Brian Masterson, Recommend changing substitute teacher pay from $120 per day Motion by Grochowski, second by Skaff to move forward with the Anna Cawcutt, Mary Ellen VonRueden, Jodi Storie, Joe France, ($130 for retirees) to $150 per day ($165 for retirees). Recommend Jr/Sr class trip, with students knowing everyone may lose some of Deb Hekrdle, Sarah Beckrich, Leisa Knauff. an incentive of $57 in order to reimburse substitute teachers for their their deposit. Motion Carried. 2. Daggett’s Foods and our entire community for raising $465.52 license if they teach five days in our schools this year. Mr. Masterson also gave updates on the Band/Choir trip, fall through the “round up program” at Daggett’s to support our Teachers substitute hourly to move from $21.75 per hour to $25 conferences and upcoming dates. weekend backpack food program. per hour. Teacher who sub teaches for a “Block” of more than an HES/FES principal Bonnie Scullard reported on enrollment 3. The Hinckley Knights for the $160 donation to HES picture hour will be compensated for the full time subbing. numbers from 9/9/2020, summer school review, workshop week/ fund and $160 donation to the HFHS picture fund. Rationale- We are anticipating a higher need for substitute open house and the first week of school going well. She also 4. Thank you to Deanna & Rick Caza (and John McEachran) for teachers this year due to pandemic. There is a substitute shortage, discussed FAST testing and Club’s Choice. She let the board know the donation to the Summer Theater program of $500). nationwide. that there is a student teacher working with Alaina Williams and a 5. Thank you to Nate Froehling, Methven Funeral and Cremation Cost- $16,700 this can be applied to Coronavirus relief fund. change in the music budget. Mrs. Scullard gave updates on her Services for donation of props to the Theater department. Donated Motion by Irlbeck, second Skaff to approve changing substitute upcoming calendar. Board also discussed congestion at the bus wheelchair, medical bag, furniture, etc. teacher pay from $120 per day ($130 for retirees) to $150 per day drop off and options for parent turn around improvements. 6. Donuts for teachers at “workshop week” were donated by ($165 for retirees). Recommend an incentive of $57 in order to Community Education Director Becky Maki gave updates on National Guard- Sgt Damon, Northview Bank, and Daggets. reimburse substitute teachers for their license if they teach five advisory council, meeting dates and class review. She also stated 7. Thank you to the HES PTO - teacher lunch provided during days in our schools this year. Teachers substitute hourly to move that the facility policy will be updated and summer activities that workshop week. from $21.75 per hour to $25 per hour. Teachers who sub teach for were cancelled. She discussed the great job Krista Matson did with 8. Town and Country Insurance for providing lunch for new a “Block” of more than an hour will be compensated for the full time swimming lessons. teachers and their mentors at the new teacher orientation meeting. subbing. Motion Carried Activities Director Cheryl Bjerke gave updates on the updated 9. Hinckley Knights, Daggett’s, and Tobie’s for helping host a I. Election Resolution for 2021. coaches handbook, fall sports, fall/training session spring/training modified back to school supper for our staff and significant others. Hinckley-Finlayson Schools hold elections in odd years. In 2017 sessions, activity bus and welcome to Welia trainer Tember Cooper. 10. Krista Mattson and her pool staff for making swimming the state of Minnesota passed a law that had the effect of making Motion by VonRueden, second by Storlie to approve policy # 309 lessons a huge success this summer. elections more difficult for school districts in odd years. Pine County the coaches handbook. Motion carried. 11. Positive Jags for donating student planners to the HFHS holds the official capacity to host polling places. Pine County has Student Board Member Audrey Storlie said the first week back students. allowed for resolutions in the past that allow school districts in at school was good, she likes the block scheduling and volleyball is 12. Nordstroms Sanitation in Moose Lake for the donation of the county to hold elections and call for their own polling places. going good as well. Masks. Superintendent recommends approval of the following resolution on Student Board Member Brady Johnson said football was good, 13. Jaguar Cross Country Team for the successful start to the polling places in 2021. Pine County has informed us that they will likes the block scheduling and discussed the hat policy. 2020-21 season. approve a resolution to support our polling places and resolution Board Committee 14. Tobie’s for coffee coupons for staff. decision after we have submitted our resolution. We will have the None 15. The Ladies of Zion Lutheran for donating a pallet of water to resolution calling for the actual elections in the summer of 2021. Communications the HES students. Motion by VonRueden, second by Grochowski to approve the None 16. Anonymous donor for microscopes and cart for HES 5th election resolution as is. Motion Carried. Budget Calendar topics/Unfinished Business - grade science. With no further business to discuss Grinsteinner motion to A. Budget calendar 2020- 21 September items listed below B. Board Education- adjourn the board meeting at 8:43 p.m. Second by Storlie. Motion September 2020 Attendance (2019 report) passed. Staff Actions- For 2020, we have adapted our attendance policy. The policy Mary Ellen Von Rueden, Clerk Teachers and Managers use controls to monitor spending and encourages students to stay home with COVID symptoms (which (Published in the Askov American September 24, 2020) compare to previous years. cross over with cold and/or flu symptoms). Students also have Teachers and Managers monitor staff levels to ensure there are the option to attend 3 or 4 days a week, on an agreement with the SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 ASKOV AMERICAN 11

PHONE: 608-733-8105 • 320-245-2368 CLASSIFIEDS For Sale Your support makes local Golden Liftchair, brown Black. Kids leather journalism possible. like new. Mens leather jacket, Justice sz 8-10 jacket, Wilsons sz X Black. 320-438-8685. Subscribe to the Askov American! [email protected] • 320-838-3151 PLT is currently hiring the following positions: COUNTY AGENCY SOCIAL WORKER – CHILD PROTECTION News & Office Assistant Skidder Operator – 1 year exp. Health & Human Services Track Feller Buncher Operator Children Services Unit About the Position: Duties: – 3 year minimal exp. Essential Duties The Askov American, Pine • Use Adobe Photoshop and InDe- Log Loader/ Slasher Operator Ability to comprehend complex screening criteria, assess County Courier and Hinckley sign to create print publications – 3 year minimal exp. situations based on the criteria, assimilate and process infor- News are looking for a part-time and layout newspaper pages. mation which is not presented in a concurrent fashion, and to News & Office Assistant that will • Prepare public notices, news and Industries top pay and make recommendations for disposition of this information. work with the editor to produce obituaries for print. benefi t packages. Prepares various reports, summaries, fi ndings, etc. on cases. Consults with psychiatrists, attorneys and others regarding and design a dynamic weekly • Other duties include writing orig- Call 651-484-2726 to set up an cases. Primary focus of this position is working with children newspaper, do reporting on inal articles, photography, circula- interview. under the Indian Child Welfare Act and Tribal Jurisdiction. news and feature stories, tion, mailing and billing. Minimum Qualifi cations maintain circulation, mailing and A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or billing of the Askov American. Apply: PLT IS CURRENTLY HIRING A university with a major in social work, psychology, sociology or closely related fi eld or Must be detail oriented. Send resumes and letters of FULL TIME DIESEL MECHANIC interest to: Jeff Andres at A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or Hours: [email protected] • Hydraulic • Class A or Class B university with a major in any fi eld and one year of experience Capabilities would be nice but as a social worker in a public or private social services agency. Up to four days a week, could be Also, valid driver’s license and appropriate certifi cation and two people working two days per • Welding Capabilities not required • Pay depending on licensure. week. • Knowledge of Salary: $24.70/hr - $31.04/hr DOQ (2020 pay scale) experience Heavy Equipment Closing Date: October 7, 2020 @ 12:00 pm For complete posting, visit our county website @ ASKOV HINCKLEY PINE COUNTY Call 651-484-2726 www.co.pine.mn.us under Departments – Human Resources – Employment to set up an interview Opportunities AmericAn News Courier Located in Little Canada An Equal Opportunity Employer/Affi rmative Action Employer

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Issue Date Typesetter Saved As Size? Photo? Proofreader 20180208 bev BUS-Agate Financial 2x1.5 y Comments: 12 ASKOV AMERICAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 CORRECTION: Error in voter guide for MN Senate District 11 leads to re-publishing Crash kills Pine CORRECTION: The race. Please see the candi- “Voter Guide 2020” in the After the first question, dates’ responses at right. Sept. 17 issue of the Askov the statement starting The Askov American American contained an “The second priority is to apologizes for this error. error in a candidate’s update the county Com- The American is com- City couple response. prehensive Plan...” was mitted to accuracy. If On page 8, the Amer- not a response from Lee. you have a correction STAFF REPORT 17-year-old male was also traveling ican inadvertently It is for this reason, or clarification, please [email protected] east on Highway 48 and struck the included a paragraph the Askov American is contact the editor either Harley Davidson. in candidate Michelle re-publishing responses by phone at (320) 384-6188 A crash involving a motorcycle and The driver and passenger of the Lee’s section that was a from both candidates in or via e-mail at editor@ pickup truck resulted in the death of motorcycle, Jerry Dean Mcdowell, 66, response from a different the race for Minnesota askov-american.com the motorcycle’s driver and passenger, and Sharon Marie Mcdowell, 61, both candidate in a different Senate District 11. a Pine City couple, on September 20. of Pine City, were fatally injured in the According to the Minnesota State crash. Patrol, at 1:08 p.m. on Saturday, The driver of the Chevy 1500 was not September 20, a 2012 Harley David- identified due to his age, and it was Minnesota Senate — District 11 (Elect 1) son motorcycle was traveling east on not reported whether or not he was Highway 48 east of Cloverdale when it injured. slowed and attempted to turn north on According to the state patrol, alcohol Michelle Lee Jason Rarick Fleming Logging Road. was not a factor in the crash. (Incumbent) A 1997 Chevy 1500 driven by a Party: DFL Party: Republican Play and Learn kits available JON TATTING How do you feel the state government is How do you feel the state government EAST CENTRAL REGIONAL LIBRARY handling the COVID-19 pandemic?: Lives is handling the COVID-19 pandemic?: I and livelihoods have been lost in this pandemic believe that the state’s handling of the COVID Play and Learn kits are a great resource for parents during this time when and yet I am hopeful we will continue to work response has been good at times, and not so we are all spending more time at home. They make learning fun, inviting early together by following common sense precau- good at others. In the beginning, when not learners to engage with rhymes, colors, numbers and more. tions to slow the spread of COVID-19 and limit much was known, the response and mes- East Central Regional Library recently added 10 new Play and Learn kits its devastating toll on our communities. Sadly sage was pretty good. We all agreed that we thanks to a generous donation by the Midco Foundation. The following Play and there are those who have chosen to politicize needed to flatten the curve, and let our hospi- Learn kits can be searched and requested through the East Central Regional this pandemic. In these uncertain times the tals get prepared. Unfortunately, due to some Library catalog: health and welfare of our communities must be poor modeling, we were trying to prepare for a Magnetic Sequencing Game, Magnetic Word Game, Magnetic Sorting Game, among our greatest priorities as citizens. much more severe situation than what was to Vocabulary Games, Counting Cones, Counting Cars, Magna-Tiles, Letter come. There has also been very confusing and Learning Leaves, Alphabet Beads, Comparing Game. I support our governor and our health experts contradictory information given to the public Each kit is available for a three-week checkout. Can’t find the kit you want at as they work with the knowns and many un- along the way. your local ECRL location? Then simply place it on hold at your branch library knowns surrounding this baffling threat as they or online at ecrlib.org by doing a keyword search for “play and learn kits.” continue to make decisions based on science I think that what has been handled the worst Geared to ages 3 and up, Play and Learn kits offer children an avenue to prac- and common sense to help us protect our fam- though is how small businesses have been tice their logical thinking, problem-solving and gross and fine motor skills by us- ilies, friends and neighbors. In a post pandemic treated. Most were shut down, while large ing one of the five basic literacy skills: play. Interactive play makes learning fun! world our continued reliance on one another’s businesses were able to remain open, with no strengths and our shared values will be critical option to show that they could be open and in rebuilding our communities. I know we are operate just as safely as the large stores. Now I up to the task. believe we have moved passed the emergency, and all Governors should end their emergency What are your top priorities for the coming powers, and return to working with Legisla- term?: Our communities in Senate District 11 tures to make decisions together as we move Welcome back! are more than a pit stop on a super highway to forward. Statewide plans and mandates do something better. We deserve better. As the not work well, so we should bring in the ideas next senator to represent our district I will fight from elected officials from around the state so for our rural communities. I believe the best that we can make better plans for the entire economic tools available to us are an educated state. and a healthy workforce. Regardless of our zip codes our families deserve fully funded public What are your top priorities for the coming schools and access to affordable and accessible term?: My priority for the coming session is healthcare. The men and women who get up going to be figuring out how to put together and go to work everyday to support our families the state’s budget for the next two years. We also deserve a living wage and safety on the job. know that the shutdown has created a large deficit, now we have to figure out how we My priorities also include supporting our small will be able to cut the State’s spending, with businesses that also support our families. the least impact on the services provided to Whether they are located on our main streets, Minnesotans. on the outskirts of town or outside the city lim- its, small businesses are the backbone of our I am also hoping to be able to get a bill done economy and they deserve a fair shake in the next year that will reform the Conservation The pharmacists and staff at the Welia Health Pine City work of serving the needs of our communities. Improvement Program for our electric utilities Community Pharmacy have missed seeing you in person! I’m not looking for a career. I had a successful companies, like East Central Energy. It is reform career as a journalist sharing your stories and that has been being worked on for three years, We’ve now reopened our doors and are happy to welcome how decisions in St. Paul and Washington and we were very close to getting it done this you back. We offer several options for prescription services to impact your lives. As your next senator I look last year. Even though there have been other match your comfort level. forward to being your voice in St. Paul. issues that have been getting so much more attention, I have continued to work on this as What do you feel are the biggest challenges well, and believe the support is there to finally In-person Pick-up facing our district and the state of Minne- get it done. Temporary Pharmacy Hours sota?: Our biggest challenge will be maintain- Monday-Friday, 9am–5pm, closed Saturdays ing the public services to the standards we rely What do you feel are the biggest chal- upon to thrive as communities, including public lenges facing our district and the state safety, healthcare systems and our public of Minnesota?: Like every other area in the Curbside Pick-up schools. It’s no secret our local, county and country right now, the biggest issue we need to For your convenience and safety, we will continue to offer state governments will face difficult deci- deal with is how do we get our economy going curbside pick-up. Please call 320.322.5141. sions due to deficits caused by the COVID-19 again safely. How do we get our kids back to pandemic. Before these decisions are made school so that they can get the education they it will be up to each of us to provide input on need and deserve. Door-to-door Delivery programs and services critical to the success Delivery available within Pine City limits. of our communities. It will also be essential One of the issues we have talked about for Please call 320.322.5141. for us to build consensus regardless of political years that has been really emphasized now, is affiliations. our areas lack of internet service. Continuing to invest in rural broadband is going to be critical Online Ordering The health and safety of our families must not now more than ever, but we are also going to To order prescriptions refills online, please visit be at the mercy of political winds. For too long have to balance that with the other services WeliaHealth.org/refills RxLocal app the word compromise has been missing in the Minnesotans expect. We also need to promote or download the . vocabulary of our elected officials. Whether we manufacturing in our area, processing facilities identify as Democrats, Republicans or Indepen- for our local farmers, mining on the range, and dents, we all value the benefits of our way of getting the pipeline built to protect our envi- life in our towns and rural communities. This is ronment and bring needed infrastructure jobs our common ground. This is where we will build to a part of the state in need of an economic WeliaHealth.org a better Minnesota for everyone. boost. Welia Health is an equal opportunity provider and employer.