I've done a lot of cool things over the past 10 years here at the Star. As I leave to pursue other ventures, I'll take away the memories to treasure.
I'll never forget climbing to the top of the new aerial ladder truck in Rush City. What a view. And yeah, being up that high came with quite a rush.
Then there was the time I volunteered to check out the new non-lethal weapons obtained by the Isanti County Sheriff's Department. Former Commissioner Gene Wicht held one arm and Sheriff Mike Ammend the other as I was tased. I would have been on the ground in seconds without their support. It was an effective weapon. And they were right; it hurt.
Being a member of the Super Stars, the Star's Outhouse Race team, is one of my all-time highlights. Gosh, we had fun. I was on the team for three years – three glorious years. We never managed to beat the Isanti Redbirds (not surprisingly, they can run like the wind), but we did take home Best Outhouse and Best Costume every time we entered. Remember Charlie's Angels, the Dukes of Hazard and the Pirates of the Caribbean?
When the old Cambridge State Hospital buildings were torn down, I traipsed through them one last time. I was there when the time capsule was recovered from behind a stone in the front wall of the Boswell building. I trembled with excitement as Roger Wm. Anderson pried it open. I was among the first person since 1956 to touch the contents inside.
I've had the opportunity to meet countless politician and candidates with big dreams, folks like Governor Tim Pawlenty, Norm Coleman, and Representative James Oberstar.
I've loved the "perks" that came with this job: free tickets to local plays and concerts, VIP access at the rodeo, and behind-the-scenes access during events.
I've been there when ground has broken for numerous businesses, roads and neighborhoods. I've watched buildings burn down. I got there minutes after the old Gillespie Auto building had fallen down on Main Street in Cambridge. Dust was still thick in the street, and we were all amazed that a building that had stood for so long, nearly 100 years, had fallen in minutes, had fallen on Main Street.
I've enjoyed seeing the history of my hometown community firsthand. I've been proud to record it in word and picture. I've loved being "in the know" about everything.
And even more than that, I've enjoyed interviewing each and every person I've met over the last 10 years. I can't begin to list off all the names, but you know who you are. I've appreciated each and every one of you. I've tried my best to accurately tell your own stories. Some have made me laugh, others outraged me. Still others brought tears to my eyes and I found it hard to take notes. It is the people of a community that make up a community newspaper. Thank you for being my "sources", thank you for your tips, thank you for urging me to take action, and thank you for supporting your community newspaper.
Some say newspapers are going under. I don't believe that for a second. Although I'm leaving the Star, I intend to keep dipping my toes into journalism. You'll still find my byline in the Star's newest venture, Lifestyles magazine. I'll be writing for other entities, as well. I intend to continue teaching the next generation of writers at Anoka-Ramsey Community College – Cambridge Campus, where I've been an adjunct instructor the past three and one-half years. Who knows? I might finally get to that novel I've been meaning to write.
My biggest job will be raising my baby – who is due any day now. It's a task I'm really looking forward to.
And so, I bid you all farewell. I'll see you around.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Dewey’s condition upgraded
Family considers it a miracle
Christopher Dewey, the Mahnomen County deputy who grew up in Isanti County, is doing better than his doctors expected he would after being shot in the abdomen and head on Feb. 18 while on duty.
His condition has been upgraded from critical to satisfactory.
Dewey remains hospitalized at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo, N.D. He was expected to be released late this week or the beginning of next week. From the hospital he will be taken to a rehabilitation facility.
MeritCare surgeon Robert Sticca labeled his progress “remarkable.”
His family feels it is nothing short of a miracle.
“He’s out of danger at the present time,” said Sticca.
Status
On Sunday, he was transferred out of MeritCare Hospital’s critical care unit into a private room in the surgical unit. He began physical therapy.
According to MeritCare critical care specialist Dr. Frank Sepe, Dewey is now moving his left side (he has been moving his right side all along), and is consistently following commands. He is able to stand with assistance, but is not yet walking.
He has limited use of his left arm, but has good function of both legs.
He is able to talk, and, as of noon on Saturday, he has been able to eat soft foods.
Dewey was taken off the ventilator on Friday, and has been breathing on his own.
Sticca said, “Chris is now out of immediate danger and has done great so far, but he will undergo more surgery, and there’s still a long road ahead for him and his family because of the injury to his brain.”
“We’ve had some good, encouraging early signs,” said Dewey’s father-in-law, Ross Boulden of Princeton, speaking on behalf of the family during a news conference on Feb. 19.
He added, “We have such a strong faith; we know we will get through this.”
Injuries
Dewey was shot on the right side of his head. Inside the skull, the bullet split into several fragments; one continued out through the right frontal lobe. During a four-hour-long surgery on Wednesday, MeritCare Dr. Justesen cleaned up the brain fragments that had shattered, some of the damaged brain under the bone, and the contaminated wound.
He expects Dewey to need at least one more brain surgery. The skull defects will need to be repaired, as will the lining of the brain.
Dewey will also need to undergo several months of rehabilitation.
Sticca expects Dewey to suffer from various neurological deficits due to the injury, but hopes that with intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation that he can regain most, if not all, of his functions.
He’s in good spirits
According to his wife, Emily (nee Boulden), Dewey has been in good spirits. The two are high school sweethearts who wed three years ago.
On Saturday, he was joking with his partners from the sheriff’s office about how he “should have ducked” and “it isn’t like the movies.”
Two members of the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Captain Carlos Perez, and his wife, Deputy Kelly Perez, have donated a home they own for Dewey’s family to use while he is in the hospital.
“Our goal is that they have nothing to worry about except taking care of Chris and Emily,” said Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney.
A fund has been set up to benefit the Christopher Dewey family. Donations may be sent to: Deputy Chris Dewey Fund, PO Box 378, 103 N. Main St., Mahnomen, MN 56557. Or, call (218) 935-5251.
The family would like people to know that they are continuing to update Dewey’s Web page on caringbridge.org; Web site name: chrisdewey.
Additional updates will be posted online at www.isanti-chisagocountystar.com.
Doctors pleased with Dewey’s status
Christopher Dewey, the Mahnomen County deputy with who grew up in Isanti County, is doing better than his doctors expected he would after being shot in the abdomen and head on Feb. 18 while on duty.
Dr. Robert Sticca, the general surgeon at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo, N.D. who performed the abdomen surgery, noted on Thursday that Dewey is in critical but very stable condition.
“He has begun to show some signs of being aware of his surroundings,” Sticca stated during a press conference Thursday. “He’s recognized his family. He’s squeezed their hands. He’s actually doing quite well.”
Sticca added, “We’re all cautiously optimistic at this point.”
Neurosurgeon Dr. Chad Justesen would not speculate on the extent of Dewey’s brain injuries. He is currently in a medically-induced comma so that doctors can monitor brain swelling.
Justesen expects to begin lessening the sedation on Friday, but cautioned that it will be awhile before Dewey is completely awake. It will be several days after that before doctors will know how the bullet damaged the brain.
Dewey was shot on the right side of his head. Inside the skull, the bullet split into several fragments; one continued out through the right frontal lobe. During a four-hour-long surgery on Wednesday, Dr. Justesen cleaned up the brain fragments that had shattered, some of the damaged brain under the bone, and the contaminated wound.
He expects Dewey to need at least one more brain surgery. The skull defects will need to be repaired, as will the lining of the brain. Depending on how much the injury swells, another surgery may be required, although Dr. Justesen thinks that is unlikely.
Dewey will also need to undergo several months of rehabilitation.
While Dewey has not yet opened his eyes and looked around, when asked to make a thumbsup sign, he has done so. He has also squeezed hands upon request.
“He’s doing very well considering his injuries,” noted Justesen.
Family is cautious, but optimistic
“We’ve had some good, encouraging early signs,” said Dewey’s father-in-law, Ross Boulden of Princeton, speaking on behalf of the family.
“But we’re still cautious.”
He added, “We have such a strong faith, we know we will get through this.”
Boulden’s daughter, Emily, has been married to Dewey for three years. The two were high-school sweethearts who met eight years ago while attending Cambridge-Isanti High School.
Boulden expressed the family’s “heartfelt” thanks to law enforcement, MeritCare and the Red Cross.
“We thank all the family and friends for keeping us in their prayers,” he said.
The Red Cross has been assisting the family in bringing Dewey’s two brothers who serve in the Armed Forces home. One is currently stationed overseas.
Speaking on behalf of his daughter, Emily, Boulden said, “Christopher is the most wonderful man. … He is an avid family person.” He noted that he has a passion for the outdoors and enjoys fishing and hunting.
Emily agreed with another person’s description of her husband as a “big teddy bear.”
As a testament to his personality, Boulden noted that a man Chris had arrested contacted the family Wednesday to send his best. “Chris has touched many hearts,” noted Boulden.
He noted that his son-in-law also dreamt of being a law enforcement officer.
Boulden asked that people continue to keep Dewey in their prayers.
Law enforcement has rallied around family
The law enforcement community has rallied around Dewey and his family.
According to Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney, when an officer is injured, “it cuts through law enforcement like a hot torch.”
Those in the field consider each other family, and when one goes down the rest are there to lend a hand.
He noted that in such cases the family of the officer is instantly traumatized.
“We’re doing everything we can to care for them,” Laney said.
They have arranged for housing for Dewey’s family members, both immediate and for the next few months. A vehicle has also been lined up.
“Our goal is that they have nothing to worry about except taking care of Chris and Emily,” said Laney.
Fund set up, updates available at Caring Bridge site
A fund has been set up to benefit the Christopher Dewey family.
Donations may be sent to:
Deputy Chris Dewey Fund, PO Box 378, 103 N. Main St., Mahnomen, MN 56557. Or, call (218) 935-5251.
The family has also set up a CaringBridge site to provide updates on Dewey’s condition. The site can be viewed by visiting caringbridge.org, site name chrisdewey.
Dr. Robert Sticca, the general surgeon at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo, N.D. who performed the abdomen surgery, noted on Thursday that Dewey is in critical but very stable condition.
“He has begun to show some signs of being aware of his surroundings,” Sticca stated during a press conference Thursday. “He’s recognized his family. He’s squeezed their hands. He’s actually doing quite well.”
Sticca added, “We’re all cautiously optimistic at this point.”
Neurosurgeon Dr. Chad Justesen would not speculate on the extent of Dewey’s brain injuries. He is currently in a medically-induced comma so that doctors can monitor brain swelling.
Justesen expects to begin lessening the sedation on Friday, but cautioned that it will be awhile before Dewey is completely awake. It will be several days after that before doctors will know how the bullet damaged the brain.
Dewey was shot on the right side of his head. Inside the skull, the bullet split into several fragments; one continued out through the right frontal lobe. During a four-hour-long surgery on Wednesday, Dr. Justesen cleaned up the brain fragments that had shattered, some of the damaged brain under the bone, and the contaminated wound.
He expects Dewey to need at least one more brain surgery. The skull defects will need to be repaired, as will the lining of the brain. Depending on how much the injury swells, another surgery may be required, although Dr. Justesen thinks that is unlikely.
Dewey will also need to undergo several months of rehabilitation.
While Dewey has not yet opened his eyes and looked around, when asked to make a thumbsup sign, he has done so. He has also squeezed hands upon request.
“He’s doing very well considering his injuries,” noted Justesen.
Family is cautious, but optimistic
“We’ve had some good, encouraging early signs,” said Dewey’s father-in-law, Ross Boulden of Princeton, speaking on behalf of the family.
“But we’re still cautious.”
He added, “We have such a strong faith, we know we will get through this.”
Boulden’s daughter, Emily, has been married to Dewey for three years. The two were high-school sweethearts who met eight years ago while attending Cambridge-Isanti High School.
Boulden expressed the family’s “heartfelt” thanks to law enforcement, MeritCare and the Red Cross.
“We thank all the family and friends for keeping us in their prayers,” he said.
The Red Cross has been assisting the family in bringing Dewey’s two brothers who serve in the Armed Forces home. One is currently stationed overseas.
Speaking on behalf of his daughter, Emily, Boulden said, “Christopher is the most wonderful man. … He is an avid family person.” He noted that he has a passion for the outdoors and enjoys fishing and hunting.
Emily agreed with another person’s description of her husband as a “big teddy bear.”
As a testament to his personality, Boulden noted that a man Chris had arrested contacted the family Wednesday to send his best. “Chris has touched many hearts,” noted Boulden.
He noted that his son-in-law also dreamt of being a law enforcement officer.
Boulden asked that people continue to keep Dewey in their prayers.
Law enforcement has rallied around family
The law enforcement community has rallied around Dewey and his family.
According to Cass County Sheriff Paul Laney, when an officer is injured, “it cuts through law enforcement like a hot torch.”
Those in the field consider each other family, and when one goes down the rest are there to lend a hand.
He noted that in such cases the family of the officer is instantly traumatized.
“We’re doing everything we can to care for them,” Laney said.
They have arranged for housing for Dewey’s family members, both immediate and for the next few months. A vehicle has also been lined up.
“Our goal is that they have nothing to worry about except taking care of Chris and Emily,” said Laney.
Fund set up, updates available at Caring Bridge site
A fund has been set up to benefit the Christopher Dewey family.
Donations may be sent to:
Deputy Chris Dewey Fund, PO Box 378, 103 N. Main St., Mahnomen, MN 56557. Or, call (218) 935-5251.
The family has also set up a CaringBridge site to provide updates on Dewey’s condition. The site can be viewed by visiting caringbridge.org, site name chrisdewey.
Officer with ties to Isanti shot in Mahnomen County
A Mahnomen County sheriff’s deputy who grew up in Isanti was shot Wednesday morning.
Christopher Dewey, 26, is listed in critical but stable condition following surgery Wednesday at MeritCare hospital in Fargo.
He was shot in the head and abdomen by a high-powered rifle.
THE INCIDENT
According to the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Department, Dewey responded to the call of a possible drunk driver leaving the Shooting Star Casino in Mahnomen at about 4 a.m. on Feb. 18. The vehicle fled the scene. Dewey discovered it parked near the county courthouse. Footprints led to a nearby residence.
When Dewey’s partner attempted to make contact with Dewey and was unable to, the officer went to the scene shortly after 7 a.m. and found Dewey lying shot in the driveway.
Dewey was stabilized at Mahnomen Health Center and transferred to MeritCare Hospital, Fargo, via LifeFlight. He arrived at 8:25 a.m.
Members of over 12 different law enforcement agencies surrounded a nearby home all day, attempting to take the suspects into custody. Two were arrested and were expected to be charged on Thursday.
TWO SURGERIES
Two surgeries have been performed on Dewey since his arrival at MeritCare.
Dr. Robert Sticca, a general surgeon, performed the abdomen surgery. There was an entrance and exit wound with laceration to the liver, which was repaired.
The victim also suffered one gun shot wound to the head resulting in a severe brain injury. Dr. Chad Justesen, a neurosurgeon, completed surgery at 1:20 p.m., approximately four hours later. Dewey is listed in critical condition. It is too soon to know what his prognosis is, according to hospital representatives.
The hospital was locked down on Wednesday. Additional supplies, such as blood, MeritCare staff and security were sent to Mahnomen in preparation for the possibility of more victims. Chaplains were also sent to assist.
FOOTBALL PLAYER
On his myspace page, Dewey lists Isanti as his hometown.
Dewey graduated from Cambridge-Isanti High School in 2001. He was on the football team.
He next went on to earn an associate’s degree in law enforcement from Hibbing Community College in 2003.
Dewey married one and one-half years ago; he has no children. He has been working for the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Department for the past four years.
Non-profits can use community center for free
City chooses LeFebvre Catering for all events at the facility
CAMBRIDGE – Local non-profits can hold their meetings at the new Cambridge community center at no charge.
Among those organizations that can use the facility for free are those that give back to the community. These include the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cambridge Ambassadors, Isanti County Historical Society, Jaycees, Lions, Masons, Rotary and 4-H.
If these groups use the kitchen or the assembly hall, they will be charged the $20 an hour supervision fee by the National Guard, noted Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe. during the Cambridge City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Isanti County may also use the community center at no charge.
Other groups will be charged half the cost. These include any non-profit that can provide a 501c exemption letter, athletic associations that serve Cambridge residents, and local schools (District 911, Cambridge Christian School, Christ the King parochial, and the home school cooperative).
Council member Bob Shogren suggested that the list be modified.
Those eligible for free rent will be reviewed by the Community Center Task Force and any recommendations brought back to the city council.
FULL-DAY RENTAL FEES REDUCED
Council members had set rental fees in January. However, after hearing that the fee charged for a full-day event was too high, the amount was lowered on Tuesday night.
Hourly rates will be as follows:
• Assembly hall, Monday to Friday: $40
• Assembly hall, Saturday and Sunday: $60
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Monday to Friday, $75 with a maximum of $500
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Saturday and Sunday: $95 with a maximum of $500 per single day event (plus a $20 an hour supervision fee)
• Classrooms, Monday to Friday: $20
• Classrooms, Saturday and Sunday: $40
CATERING SERVICES
LeFebvre Catering, together with the Cambridge American Legion (liquor provider), will serve as the caterer at the community center.
Two caterers submitted proposals for the city to consider: LeFebvre Catering and Spectacular Catering. The fees for the two were nearly similar, noted Woulfe.
Both employ a number of local people as part-time employees to help serve at events.
Prior to the regular council meeting on Feb. 17, both caterers provided a sample meal for council members and guests.
After reviewing the proposals, the city council appointed LeFebvre Catering.
“I think they both did a fabulous job,” noted council member Lisa Iverson.
USE POLICY
A policy governing the use of the community center was also approved on Tuesday night.
It was written by the community center task force and then forwarded to the city council.
Those who would like to rent the facility should contact Cambridge City Hall at 763-689-3211.
A non-refundable deposit of 50 percent is required for any reservation of the assembly hall.
Any alcohol for events must be provided through the city’s approved caterer.
Weapons are not allowed on the premises, unless it is for a special event that is pre-approved by the city (such as a gun show).
Camping is not allowed.
Council member Dave Schornstein questioned the restrictions placed on grilling. Woulfe clarified that commercial grills being used by caterers or a local non-profit doing a benefit (such as the Rotary) would be allowed, following approval by the city’s fire chief and city administrator.
CAMBRIDGE – Local non-profits can hold their meetings at the new Cambridge community center at no charge.
Among those organizations that can use the facility for free are those that give back to the community. These include the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cambridge Ambassadors, Isanti County Historical Society, Jaycees, Lions, Masons, Rotary and 4-H.
If these groups use the kitchen or the assembly hall, they will be charged the $20 an hour supervision fee by the National Guard, noted Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe. during the Cambridge City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Isanti County may also use the community center at no charge.
Other groups will be charged half the cost. These include any non-profit that can provide a 501c exemption letter, athletic associations that serve Cambridge residents, and local schools (District 911, Cambridge Christian School, Christ the King parochial, and the home school cooperative).
Council member Bob Shogren suggested that the list be modified.
Those eligible for free rent will be reviewed by the Community Center Task Force and any recommendations brought back to the city council.
FULL-DAY RENTAL FEES REDUCED
Council members had set rental fees in January. However, after hearing that the fee charged for a full-day event was too high, the amount was lowered on Tuesday night.
Hourly rates will be as follows:
• Assembly hall, Monday to Friday: $40
• Assembly hall, Saturday and Sunday: $60
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Monday to Friday, $75 with a maximum of $500
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Saturday and Sunday: $95 with a maximum of $500 per single day event (plus a $20 an hour supervision fee)
• Classrooms, Monday to Friday: $20
• Classrooms, Saturday and Sunday: $40
CATERING SERVICES
LeFebvre Catering, together with the Cambridge American Legion (liquor provider), will serve as the caterer at the community center.
Two caterers submitted proposals for the city to consider: LeFebvre Catering and Spectacular Catering. The fees for the two were nearly similar, noted Woulfe.
Both employ a number of local people as part-time employees to help serve at events.
Prior to the regular council meeting on Feb. 17, both caterers provided a sample meal for council members and guests.
After reviewing the proposals, the city council appointed LeFebvre Catering.
“I think they both did a fabulous job,” noted council member Lisa Iverson.
USE POLICY
A policy governing the use of the community center was also approved on Tuesday night.
It was written by the community center task force and then forwarded to the city council.
Those who would like to rent the facility should contact Cambridge City Hall at 763-689-3211.
A non-refundable deposit of 50 percent is required for any reservation of the assembly hall.
Any alcohol for events must be provided through the city’s approved caterer.
Weapons are not allowed on the premises, unless it is for a special event that is pre-approved by the city (such as a gun show).
Camping is not allowed.
Council member Dave Schornstein questioned the restrictions placed on grilling. Woulfe clarified that commercial grills being used by caterers or a local non-profit doing a benefit (such as the Rotary) would be allowed, following approval by the city’s fire chief and city administrator.
Harris hires new city clerk
HARRIS – Dawn Luke is Harris’ new city clerk.
Luke currently resides 35-miles away in Grantsburg, Wis.
She is presently working as the township clerk for Anderson and Wood River in Wisconsin.
She earned her certificate from the Municipal Clerks Institute last summer, and is looking for an opportunity to use what she’s learned.
During an interview on Feb. 9, Luke described herself as an outgoing person. “I’m a leader,” she added. “I’d rather follow than lead.”
Luke is familiar with Microsoft Office, as well as Quickbooks.
Her past experience includes working as a computer technician for the Grantsburg school system; two stints at local banks; and handling accounts for Arrow Building Center.
She also owned and operated a ranch through the mid-1990s.
In all, 150 applications were received for the Harris clerk position. Seven people were interviewed during the first round of interviews. The final three candidates, Luke, Erica Wilson and Arleen Heins, were interviewed a second time during the council meeting on Feb. 9.
The hiring decision was made on Feb. 12, which was a continuation of the Feb. 9 city council meeting.
Luke will earn $18 an hour, and will put in between 24 and 28 hours a week.
The offer is contingent upon her successfully passing a background check.
Harris appoints new fire chief
Change in leadership prompts six firefighters to resign
HARRIS – There’s a new fire chief in Harris, but not everyone agrees about it.
In anticipation of the appointment of Trevor Williams, six firefighters resigned on Monday night, Feb. 6.
Among them are Will Lacina, Wes Lacina, Tim Cropper, Doug Chaffee, John Pelant and Chris Stoeckel.
Chaffee warned the city council to expect more resignations. “You’re losing some of the most experienced firefighters and first responders,” he added.
COUNCIL DISAGREES WITH DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
In January, the fire department voted to re-elect Will Lacina as fire chief on a 23 to seven vote.
Later that month at the city council meeting, council member Kathy Olson made a motion to appoint Trevor Williams instead. After John Pelant made a motion to appoint Lacina, the city council agreed to look at the issue again in February.
According to city treasurer Marlys Belfany, she spoke to both Williams and Lacina via phone and informed them the city council would be interviewing both during the February meeting. However, council member John Pelant objected that an official letter was not sent out to both the candidates.
“I think the council screwed up on this one,” said Pelant.
Lacina did not attend Monday night’s meeting.
Pelant stressed that the council should go with the fire department’s recommendation for chief. “People in the fire department should know who the chief should be,” he said. They base it on experience and knowledge, he noted.
INTERVIEW
During the interview conducted on Feb. 6, Williams was asked about his leadership skills, knowledge of fire department procedures and structure, and training.
Williams said that he graduated from high school in 1988. In 1989, he began working as a first responder. He was a member of two fire departments for a total of 10 and one-half years before joining the Harris department in 2006.
Citizen comment
Speaking during the citizens’ comment period, Doris Gilquist pushed the council to continue with the existing leadership. Later, she added Will Lacina hadn’t shown up at the council meeting because he felt that the council didn’t respect him or need him.
“Trevor’s a good firefighter,” said Tim Cropper. “He’s a follower, not a leader.”
Mayor Diane Miller stated that she respects Lacina’s right to resign. As it appeared the city had only one applicant for chief, she looked for direction from the council.
“We have to move forward,” said council member Judy Hammerstrom.
Olson made the motion to appoint Williams as chief. The vote was three in favor with two abstentions (Pelant and Larson).
Williams will be on a six-month probation.
Going beyond the yellow ribbon
Isanti County seeks to help veterans and their families demobilize by looking them in the eye.
ISANTI COUNTY – The United States spends six months transforming citizens into soldiers. After their tour of duty, the United States spends a couple days talking to them about how to return to normal life.
It’s not enough, according to Bob Boone of Cambridge who retired after serving in the National Guard for 38 years.
Thus he helped create the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon campaign. He sees the need for even more support than that, however. Now that he’s retired from the Guard, Boone is working with the Isanti County Veterans’ Service office to provide help to not only soldiers, but also their families.
The goal is to be there from the alert order through demobilization and beyond.
The folks going off to Iran and Afghanistan don’t have the support soldiers in past conflicts did, noted Boone. Rather, than live together on a base, the Guard soldiers being deployed are spread out across the state. When the soldiers leave, their families deal with their absence on their own.
The goal of the Isanti County Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program is to change that.
Organizers Boone, Isanti County Veterans Service Officer Jim Rostberg and Isanti County Commissioner Susan Morris presented their plan to the Isanti County Board on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
From soldier to leaders – if honored
World War II veterans came back to a country that honored them and praised them, noted Morris. They rose to become the leaders in society. In contrast, those who served in Vietnam are still suffering.
The way society deals with returning soldiers has a huge impact on their later lives, noted Morris.
“I want our service men and women to know how much they are appreciated,” she said.
LOOK 'EM IN THE EYE
For the past two years, Morris, Rostberg and Boone have been soliciting grants to pay for the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program. They have received $10,317.10 to fund their efforts.
The program will provide information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach.
And perhaps most importantly, Jim Rostberg and staff will be sure to look each and every veteran in the eye shortly after he/she returns.
The veterans service office will focus on making sure each service member and their family is able to successfully deal with the effects of combat operational stress. “Everyone deals with operational stress differently,” said Boone. “Most deal with it quite nicely. Some have a very difficult time.”
Boone, Rostberg and Morris intend to set up a local Veterans Linkage Line, as well as a web site (isanticountyveterans.org). A directory of available assistance will also be created. Boone anticipates that this will take about six months to get up and running.
Additionally, a task force will be created. A variety of local residents will be asked to serve on it.
A veteran himself who served in Desert Storm, Commissioner Alan Duff applauded what was being done. “The transition to normal family life is a major challenge. We need to help these families out. It’s a neglected area in my opinion.”
Commissioner George Larson complimented the threesome on a job well done. “It’s something that is very needed.”
ISANTI COUNTY – The United States spends six months transforming citizens into soldiers. After their tour of duty, the United States spends a couple days talking to them about how to return to normal life.
It’s not enough, according to Bob Boone of Cambridge who retired after serving in the National Guard for 38 years.
Thus he helped create the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon campaign. He sees the need for even more support than that, however. Now that he’s retired from the Guard, Boone is working with the Isanti County Veterans’ Service office to provide help to not only soldiers, but also their families.
The goal is to be there from the alert order through demobilization and beyond.
The folks going off to Iran and Afghanistan don’t have the support soldiers in past conflicts did, noted Boone. Rather, than live together on a base, the Guard soldiers being deployed are spread out across the state. When the soldiers leave, their families deal with their absence on their own.
The goal of the Isanti County Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program is to change that.
Organizers Boone, Isanti County Veterans Service Officer Jim Rostberg and Isanti County Commissioner Susan Morris presented their plan to the Isanti County Board on Tuesday, Feb. 3.
From soldier to leaders – if honored
World War II veterans came back to a country that honored them and praised them, noted Morris. They rose to become the leaders in society. In contrast, those who served in Vietnam are still suffering.
The way society deals with returning soldiers has a huge impact on their later lives, noted Morris.
“I want our service men and women to know how much they are appreciated,” she said.
LOOK 'EM IN THE EYE
For the past two years, Morris, Rostberg and Boone have been soliciting grants to pay for the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program. They have received $10,317.10 to fund their efforts.
The program will provide information, services, referrals, and proactive outreach.
And perhaps most importantly, Jim Rostberg and staff will be sure to look each and every veteran in the eye shortly after he/she returns.
The veterans service office will focus on making sure each service member and their family is able to successfully deal with the effects of combat operational stress. “Everyone deals with operational stress differently,” said Boone. “Most deal with it quite nicely. Some have a very difficult time.”
Boone, Rostberg and Morris intend to set up a local Veterans Linkage Line, as well as a web site (isanticountyveterans.org). A directory of available assistance will also be created. Boone anticipates that this will take about six months to get up and running.
Additionally, a task force will be created. A variety of local residents will be asked to serve on it.
A veteran himself who served in Desert Storm, Commissioner Alan Duff applauded what was being done. “The transition to normal family life is a major challenge. We need to help these families out. It’s a neglected area in my opinion.”
Commissioner George Larson complimented the threesome on a job well done. “It’s something that is very needed.”
Saturday, February 14, 2009
TO A POINT: Fire department needs to make policy changes
imagine driving towards your house and finding your vehicle in the midst of smoke. You see flames and your heart jumps into your throat. "Is my house on fire?" you ask yourself.
Lucky for me, mine wasn't. Instead it was the house across the street that was ablaze, one that had stood vacant for a few years, had been prepped for a fire and was being burned as a training exercise for the Cambridge Fire Department.
I can only hope that a fire across the street is the closest I ever get to my own home burning down. I don't consider myself a worrywart, but I couldn't stop the knots from forming in my stomach as I stood at my bedroom window and watched the sparks fly that night. The wind carried most of them south, but there were still several that came too close for comfort. I hoped the wind didn't change. I prayed it didn't get stronger. In the morning, I awoke to a yard full of black ashes.
There are a lot of things in the way when you burn a house in an older part of town. Obviously, there are the neighboring houses. There are power lines that drape close to those buildings. There are trees and bushes and fences.
As I stood there – half fascinated by the flames and half frightened for my home – I watched the local firemen hop into their trucks and drive away. I was stunned. Was there no one but me and the other neighbors watching this fire?
Yes, the walls had all fallen in by then - I hadn't gotten home that night until after 9 p.m. But the flames still rose four feet up out of the basement. I was startled by loud popping noises. Sparks flew out of the pine trees standing just a few feet from the ruins, and the wind carried them to a line of pine trees about 50 feet away. A power pole (which, of course, connected to the line and pole in my front yard) sat about five feet from the fire and was blackened by the blaze. I knew the heat coming out of the fire was still significant. And no one was there to babysit it?
Of course, I called the fire hall to find out what was going on. Now, I'm not a firefighter, and I haven't received the training they do, but I like to think I have some common sense. So I asked why they had left the blaze unattended. I was told it was because it no longer posed a threat as it had been "knocked down."
I can't leave a small campfire burning in my own backyard without the possibility of getting a ticket, and here was a much bigger fire left completely unattended. I just can't wrap my head around that being okay.
About 10 minutes later, a truck returned to the scene. I was able to fall asleep then, knowing there were trained eyes keeping track of that fire.
I've since brought my concerns to the mayor and fire chief. I hope the fire department considers making it a policy to not leave a fire until all flames are extinguished.
I also hope that they begin sending out letters to nearby property owners a week or so before a planned training exercise. Currently they knock on the doors of neighbors before starting the blaze, but then those (like myself) who weren't home at the time get missed.
Practice burns are obviously important as they provide needed, hands-on experience in a controlled environment. But when it comes to a fire, I don't think you should ever think you have it completely under control.
Lucky for me, mine wasn't. Instead it was the house across the street that was ablaze, one that had stood vacant for a few years, had been prepped for a fire and was being burned as a training exercise for the Cambridge Fire Department.
I can only hope that a fire across the street is the closest I ever get to my own home burning down. I don't consider myself a worrywart, but I couldn't stop the knots from forming in my stomach as I stood at my bedroom window and watched the sparks fly that night. The wind carried most of them south, but there were still several that came too close for comfort. I hoped the wind didn't change. I prayed it didn't get stronger. In the morning, I awoke to a yard full of black ashes.
There are a lot of things in the way when you burn a house in an older part of town. Obviously, there are the neighboring houses. There are power lines that drape close to those buildings. There are trees and bushes and fences.
As I stood there – half fascinated by the flames and half frightened for my home – I watched the local firemen hop into their trucks and drive away. I was stunned. Was there no one but me and the other neighbors watching this fire?
Yes, the walls had all fallen in by then - I hadn't gotten home that night until after 9 p.m. But the flames still rose four feet up out of the basement. I was startled by loud popping noises. Sparks flew out of the pine trees standing just a few feet from the ruins, and the wind carried them to a line of pine trees about 50 feet away. A power pole (which, of course, connected to the line and pole in my front yard) sat about five feet from the fire and was blackened by the blaze. I knew the heat coming out of the fire was still significant. And no one was there to babysit it?
Of course, I called the fire hall to find out what was going on. Now, I'm not a firefighter, and I haven't received the training they do, but I like to think I have some common sense. So I asked why they had left the blaze unattended. I was told it was because it no longer posed a threat as it had been "knocked down."
I can't leave a small campfire burning in my own backyard without the possibility of getting a ticket, and here was a much bigger fire left completely unattended. I just can't wrap my head around that being okay.
About 10 minutes later, a truck returned to the scene. I was able to fall asleep then, knowing there were trained eyes keeping track of that fire.
I've since brought my concerns to the mayor and fire chief. I hope the fire department considers making it a policy to not leave a fire until all flames are extinguished.
I also hope that they begin sending out letters to nearby property owners a week or so before a planned training exercise. Currently they knock on the doors of neighbors before starting the blaze, but then those (like myself) who weren't home at the time get missed.
Practice burns are obviously important as they provide needed, hands-on experience in a controlled environment. But when it comes to a fire, I don't think you should ever think you have it completely under control.
Man sentenced for threatening woman, children
RUSH CITY – A Rush City man was charged after threatening a woman and her four young children on Jan. 29.
According to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Department, Brian Eric Schneider, 33, allegedly assaulted the woman in her home. He kicked and punched the victim in the face, legs and rib cage. Later, while they were in the kitchen, Schneider threatened to stab her.
Schneider also threatened the woman’s children, all whom are younger than eight years old.
He is being charged with felony terroristic threats.
On Jan. 30, Judge John McBride set his bail at $40,000. Schneider was also ordered to have no contact with the victim.
He will next appear in court on Feb. 11 at 1 p.m.
According to the Chisago County Sheriff’s Department, Brian Eric Schneider, 33, allegedly assaulted the woman in her home. He kicked and punched the victim in the face, legs and rib cage. Later, while they were in the kitchen, Schneider threatened to stab her.
Schneider also threatened the woman’s children, all whom are younger than eight years old.
He is being charged with felony terroristic threats.
On Jan. 30, Judge John McBride set his bail at $40,000. Schneider was also ordered to have no contact with the victim.
He will next appear in court on Feb. 11 at 1 p.m.
Missing girl returns home
Christin Swenson has been missing one month.
NORTH BRANCH TOWNSHIP – The 17-year-old North Branch Township girl who has been missing since Dec. 16 has returned home.
She came back five weeks after she left.
According to Isanti County Investigator Lisa Lovering, Swenson returned to Isanti County on Jan. 22. She is currently in protective custody.
The whereabouts of the man she was believed to be with, Wade Swenson, are unknown.
Officials are still investigating the incident.
The family has requested time to be alone with their daughter.
Christin is the youngest of three children; her parents are Mary and Larry Swenson.
She is a senior at North Branch High School.
According to the Isanti County Sheriff’s department, Swenson contacted her family at 8 p.m. on Dec. 22, and said she was on her way home from Red Wing where she worked on the weekends. She never arrived.
Swenson had been renting a room in Red Wing from a girl friend on the weekends to work at an Econofoods there. When she wasn’t working at the grocery store, she was helping her cousin Wade Swenson with his three children, who range from age five to 15, according to her mother.
Human Rights Award recipient helps disabled clients become independent
Industries, Inc. praised for advancing human rightsCAMBRIDGE – For their passion and commitment to advancing human rights in Isanti County, the staff and clients of Industries, Inc. earned the 2009 Human Rights Award.
The award was presented by the Isanti County Human Rights Commission on Martin Lutheran King, Jr. Day, Jan. 19.
Industries, Inc. is the 12th recipient of the award. “All the recipients have laid the groundwork for us to build a community we can be proud of,” praised Isanti County Human Rights Commission Chair Steve Mulligan.
Past award recipient John Schlagel said he can’t think of a more deserving organization than Industries. He pointed out, “They work with literally any person that comes to them with any type of disability. They find a spot to make them part of their community and their family.”
“It’s such a great honor,” stated Industries Co-Executive Director Denise Johnson. “We are so proud to have been given this award.”
“It’s just treasured here,” noted Industries Marketing Director Marilee Larson. “We can barely keep the smiles off our faces.”
ABOUT INDUSTRIES, INC.
Industries, Inc. began in 1966 with a group of people who had a vision for people with disabilities.
This group opened Brighter Day Achievement Center in Mora the next year. It grew into a corporation known as Industries, Inc. by the 1970s. The organization expanded to Cambridge’s industrial park in the 1990s.
“Our entire mission is about helping clients grow in their independence,” noted Industries Co-Director Kris McNally. “We find ways for them to be independent in different areas of their life.”
“Once upon a time our clients were locked up in institutions where people thought they weren’t capable of anything,” pointed out Johnson.
Staff at Industries are perpetually battling misconceptions about what they do.
“The perception of Industries is we have people in wheelchairs who can’t do anything,” observed McNally. “They don’t understand the spectrum of people with disabilities. Half the time you don’t even know [the worker is disabled] because they are so high functioning.”
Industries focuses on helping clients achieve their highest potential. “They come to work and have a job. We pay them based on the amount of work they do,” McNally pointed out. “If they work at a higher level, they earn more.”
This provides an incentive for the clients to learn more so that they are paid more.
She praised Industries, Inc. staff members who work with clients to achieve amazing results.
WORKING TO INCREASE INDEPENDENCE
Services provided by Industries are multi-faceted.
“We have a wide array of services,” noted Johnson. “No matter what their level is or their disability, we have a service for them.”
Jobs are provided at the plants for clients. Right now, Industries provides assembly work for more than 20 local and national companies, including Cambridge Metals & Plastics, Lake Country Products, and Medtronics.
Industries, Inc. workers also go out into the community. They provide cleaning, lawn care and janitorial services. They can be full or part-time workers handling positions employers can’t keep filled. Some are directly supervised by Industries, others by the respective business.
Placements are determined based on the client’s interests and skill levels.
Many clients begin by working at Industries’ plants or on work crews. These work crews might clean Barber’s on Main or shred paper at the Isanti County Government Center. As skills increase, the client might get placed with an outside company as a dishwasher or a cook, for example.
“A lot of what we do is helping people find their niche,” said Larson.
For jobs outside the Industries office, Industries provides the training necessary at no cost, as well as follow-up and consultation. Local businesses that have hired Industries’ workers include the city of Cambridge, Grand Casino, Allina Eye Clinic, Adventure Publications, Edward Jones, New Hope Community Church and Cortec.
Industries also focuses on developing life skills for its clients with disabilities, which includes those with severe persistent mental illness (SPMI).
In all, Industries has over 200 clients working in the Mora and Cambridge communities. Eighty clients are in the work habilitation programs learning life skills. And there is a varying number of folks with SPMI being helped at Industries, Inc.
Overseeing this work is a 10-member board and about 50 staff members.
“Our clients love the community integration,” said Johnson. “They just like being a part of life and doing the work they do here to increase their independence.”
Human Rights Award Recipients
1997 Shirley Holyfield
1998 Evelyn Puffer
1999 Braham Area School Student Council
2000 Jim Donahue
2001 Louis & Barbara Leisure
2002 Richard Coland
2003 Larry Ostrom
2004 Larry Southerland
2005 Son Duong
2006 Dehl Lindstrom
2007 John & Bonnie Schlagel
2009 Industries, Inc.
Community center bill grows by $45,000
Military is charging the city for use
CAMBRIDGE – Cambridge’s new community center is going to cost the city an additional $45,000 a year.
Council members hope to recoup most of that through rental fees.
“There’s a lot of demand,” noted Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe during the Jan. 20 council meeting.
The additional $45,000 is a fee that is being charged by the military, which constructed and owns the facility.
The city is also responsible for hiring a custodian who will oversee afternoon and evening events at the center Monday to Friday. National Guard personnel will oversee events on the weekends for an additional fee ($20 an hour).
Council members are disappointed that they were paying an additional fee to the military. To entice the military to Cambridge, the city donated the land the facility is built upon (which was donated to the city by the Kelly family), and paid for utility connections at the site. Cambridge also contributed $750,000 to upgrade the building.
“I know that amount is not what the city hoped for in light of the amenities it provided to the community center,” noted Woulfe. However, she is pleased the city was able to negotiate the military down from the $65,000 fee first proposed.
Under the terms of this agreement, the city controls rental fees and the Armed Forces Readiness Center calendar.
Now that the use agreement has been approved between the military and the city, the city can begin taking reservations for events at the community center. Call 763-689-3211.
COMMUNITY CENTER FEES
Cambridge evaluated the rates being charged by the school district when it determined the fees it will be charging at the community center.
Hourly rates will be as follows:
• Assembly hall, Monday to Friday: $40
• Assembly hall, Saturday and Sunday: $60
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Monday to Friday, $75 with a maximum of $900
• Assembly hall and kitchen, Saturday and Sunday: $95 with a maximum of $1,200 per single day event
• Classrooms, Monday to Friday: $20
• Classrooms, Saturday and Sunday: $40
At this time, the city has not set up a fee schedule for fitness center use.
Woulfe questioned whether council members want to waive fees for non-profit groups.
Caulk supported reduced rates for groups like the Boy Scouts.
Shogren supported allowing non-profits free use, provided they are not charging for services.
Rates for non-profits will be discussed again at a later date, after the city’s community center task force has reviewed the issue.
CATERING SERVICES
Only one caterer will be allowed to operate out of the community center kitchen.
The city will solicit requests for proposals (RFPs) and select one caterer from those.
This is being done at the request of the military, noted Woulfe, who prefer that one company be allowed to use the equipment they have provided. Guard representatives also pointed out that they are required to adhere to strict guidelines and random cleanliness checks. The Guard is also worried about how many people will have keys to the community center.
Another pro for using only one caterer is that this company will be responsible for taking an inventory of kitchen supplies (cups, plates, silverware, etc.) to make sure nothing is missing, said Woulfe.
The community center task force unanimously supported the decision to work with only one caterer.
Council member Dave Schornstein noted his concern about creating a monopoly. “Someone could charge anything they want,” he said.
Woulfe pointed out that any caterer who wishes to submit an RFP must provide menus, sample pricing and references. This is being done so the city can evaluate whether they are charging reasonable rates.
RFPs are due via mail at city hall by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10.
Drug bust nabs three
CAMBRIDGE – Three people were arrested during a drug bust in Cambridge on Tuesday, Jan. 20.
After executing a search warrant at 1335 Carriage Hills Drive, authorities found a small amount of methamphetamine, 39 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia for methamphetamine and marijuana sale and use, and $117 in cash.
Arrested were Joshua Anderson, age 22, Christine Bellin, age 20, and Allie Burns, age 22. Charges are expected against two other individuals who were not at the residence when the warrant was served.
Anderson is being charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession (methamphetamine), possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Bellin faces charges for fifth degree controlled substance possession (methamphetamine), possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Burns is being charged for violating parole, and possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Assisting with the bust were the Cambridge Police Department, Isanti County Sheriff’s Department and the North Branch Police Department.
After executing a search warrant at 1335 Carriage Hills Drive, authorities found a small amount of methamphetamine, 39 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia for methamphetamine and marijuana sale and use, and $117 in cash.
Arrested were Joshua Anderson, age 22, Christine Bellin, age 20, and Allie Burns, age 22. Charges are expected against two other individuals who were not at the residence when the warrant was served.
Anderson is being charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession (methamphetamine), possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Bellin faces charges for fifth degree controlled substance possession (methamphetamine), possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Burns is being charged for violating parole, and possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Assisting with the bust were the Cambridge Police Department, Isanti County Sheriff’s Department and the North Branch Police Department.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
What’s it like to be Santa Claus?
Former Cambridge Council member shares his experiences.
CAMBRIDGE – What’s it like to be Santa Claus?
Ask Joe Morin of Cambridge. He worked as Santa Claus for 49 days in Harrisburg, Pa. during the 2008 Christmas season.
Every day at the Bass Pro Shop his beard would get yanked. Yeah, it’s real, he’d tell the kids. Others needed even more convincing and checked out the belly (no padding) and his hair (also attached).
One day he saw 274 kids in a four-hour shift. That’s 55 kids an hour.
He had every age group and gender. “We had girls in their ‘packs,’ dating couples, and war veterans,” said Morin. “We had generation pictures, family shots, and a dog. We had people that dislike Santa, and people who love Santa. We had the disabled, and a religious sect.” One day, he even visited with two newlyweds.
In all, Morin posed for 10,345 photos with over 16,000 people during his 49-day run as Santa. The youngest baby was three days old, and the oldest person was 97.
He also welcomed over 100 dogs. There were other animals, too, but Morin drew the line at snakes. One day, he almost posed with a horse, but because it was pouring rain outside they had to forego the plan in consideration of his suit.
He even posed with two stuffed animals, one of which was a project for a local elementary school.
WHY DID HE DO IT?
“It’s the kids. I do it for the kids,” explained Morin.
“You never know what’s going to come out of their mouths.”
Morin put on his first Santa costume in 1986 at his own floral store in Coon Rapids. Earlier this year, a friend (who has played Santa around the nation) encouraged him to check out the opportunities out there. He looked into Santa for Hire, and was put in touch with the Bass Pro Shop in Harrisburg, Pa.
Santa’s Wonderland at the sporting goods store spread out over 5,300 square feet. Over 25 elves assisted Santa. In addition to Santa’s workshop there were various activities for the kids. Everything was free – including photos with Santa. That policy was in sharp contrast with the mall Bass Pro Shop was attached to which charged $8 for a visit and $10 per photo.
LONG REWARDING DAYS
Morin didn’t have a day off the entire time he was in Pennsylvania. During the weekdays, Morin worked four-hour shifts from 4 to 9 p.m. On Saturdays, he was there for 11-hour shifts from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. On Sundays, he worked from noon to 5 p.m. The last week and one-half before Christmas every day was an 11-hour day.
Sitting that long in Santa’s log chair was difficult at times, especially considering Morin’s own disabilities. There are many days when he doesn’t feel good to begin with. But somehow when he put on the Santa suit and began talking with kids, his own pain disappeared.
People came from afar to see Morin. One day, he posed with a person who had driven 150 miles. He pulled in people from a five-hour radius of Harrisburg.
He also got more than five minutes of fame. His first day in Pennsylvania was spent at the local Fox television station filming a Christmas special. The three-hour show included many shots of Santa Joe with kids. Later, he participated in several commercials, and also appeared with a weatherman during a television broadcast.
MOST POPULAR TOYS
Morin became well acquainted with the most popular toys for 2008. They were Wii games, Star Wars Legos, Nintendo DS, Barbies and Bratz dolls.
Once on Santa’s lap, 80 percent of the kids grew too shy to share their lists. Morin had a couple standard questions to inspire them. He’d ask the boys, “Would you like a dress and a Barbie?” To the girls, he’d asked, “Would you like a truck and a Superman outfit?” The questions never failed to get the children rolling.
Some came with a list 10 pages long. Others wanted little but a stint on Santa’s lap and a hug.
There were the kids that ran down the red carpet and jumped into Santa’s arms. On the other end of the spectrum were the kids that screamed and kicked the entire time.
“It’s amazing the number of kids that will tell Santa anything,” Morin observed.
THE BEST CHRISTMAS A CHILD COULD HAVE
There were some visits that brought tears to Santa’s own eyes, such as the teen-age boy whose father died the day before. He asked Santa to pray with him.
One little girl was afflicted by old-age syndrome. Doctors don’t expect the seven-year-old to make it to next Christmas.
Perhaps the most touching for Morin was the nine-year-old blind girl. She had been adopted by an American couple along with her two siblings. Knowing that the blind see through their fingers, Morin asked if she wanted to touch Santa. He led her hands to his beard - an amazing thing for a child from a country where men don’t typically grow beards. She touched his hair, and his hat – all the way to the tassle on the end. When she reached the tassle she laughed and laughed.
There is usually a lot of commotion in Santa’s workshop, but when the little girl was done, Morin looked up and found that the place had gone quiet. Everyone nearby was crying – including her family members and the elves.
Her mother told Morin, “This is the best Christmas she could ever have.”
While many of the local Santas didn’t accept visits from handicapped kids, Morin made no exceptions. All kids were welcome.
One such child left a present with Santa, instructing Morin not to open it until he was gone. “He must have used up a whole roll of scotch tape wrapping it,” Morin noted. Inside was a folder the boy, Joe, had decorated himself.
One day, Santa looked up to find Mrs. Claus standing in front of him. The 97-year-old woman came wearing a costume dating from 1927. She had worked as a Mrs. Claus for years before hanging up her suit when her husband died.
Morin captured those stories and more on his blog, santajoe2008.blogspot.com.
Santa himself made it home just in time to spend Christmas day with his own family, wife Cheryl, son Daniel, and daughter Jill and husband.
Local cities deal with LGA cuts
Local cities were hit with state funding cuts at the end of 2008 that affected their bottom lines.
The cuts came too late for many cities to adjust their budgets.
“This could not have come at a worse time, as cities are closing the financial books on 2008 and were counting on full December local government aid (LGA) and market value homestead credit (MVHC) payments – amounts that were committed to by the state in July of 2007 – to meet year-end financial obligations,” said League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director Jim Miller.
In general, cities lost roughly 4 percent of their total revenue.
More cuts are anticipated as the state of Minnesota attempts to solve its budget deficit.
Local cities are responding by planning ahead and identifying areas to cut now.
BRAHAM
Braham lost $36,293 in December. ‘Like all other cities and counties, this money was already spent, and the unallotment will result in a shortfall of revenues in the 2008 budget,” said City Administrator Sally Hoy.
To compensate for the 2008 loss and an anticipated LGA loss of about $50,000 in 2009, the city council approved decreasing its 2009 budget in several areas. The city did not receive $30,000 in taxes due to delinquencies.
Employees will not be laid off, but their salaries (and that of the building official) will be reduced by five percent. To compensate for that, employees will only be required to work 95 percent of their regular work hours. City hall hours will go back to 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to reduce utility costs.
The city will not fund flowers, buy a new squad car, or pick up stray cats. It will not mail out its city newsletter, but merely post it online, nor will it send out reminders to those who forget to read their water meters. It cut funding to parks by $11,800.
CAMBRIDGE
The December blow of losing $207,383 in state money was softened by an increase of $111,988 the city received in 2008 tax revenue over what is expected. The city council had also revised its budget several times in 2008 to account for the slowing economy.
The amount earned through licenses and permits was also up by $10,000 as were other charges for services, according to Finance Director Caroline Moe.
Additionally, the city did not spend as much as it had anticipated on health insurance following a partnership with the city’s unions. That amounted to a savings of $88,178.
In all, the city was actually able to put an additional $9,539 in its contingency fund to apply for next year.
“What we remain most concerned about is whether or not the city will see any of the $801,772 in LGA certified to the city by the Department of Revenue in July 2008 while we were preparing our 2009 budget,” noted Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe. “If these funds are cut again on top of the $207,383 from 2008, it will hurt substantially.”
Woulfe and Moe are working on a plan that will pare down the 2009 budget. “This won’t be presented until we get a better sense of how the Legislature will deal with the $5.2 billion dollar deficit,” said Woulfe.
ISANTI
Isanti fixed its 2008 budget deficit of $112,316 by applying unspent 2008 dollars.
The city council then approved cutting $112,316 from its 2009 budget in anticipation of additional revenue reductions.
The city enacted a freeze on public works hiring, eliminated the warming house staff, and took out all charitable giving. The council decided not to erect granite signs for the Economic Development Authority and eliminated a transfer from the EDA fund to the revolving loan fund. Council members also imposed a “no new non-budgeted spending” rule. Additionally, $100,000 was transferred from the liquor store fund to the general fund.
“The days when Isanti or any city can count on the state to keep its financial house in order are over,” said Mayor George Wimmer. “We must do what every small- and medium-sized business must do: live within our means.” He added, “Relaying on LGA for daily operations must become a thing of the past.”
LGA accounts for 17 percent of the city’s budget.
The mayor also proposed seven other options that range from eliminating a position in public works or the police department to transferring money into the general fund from other funds.
“We will not know until late spring or early summer what to expect from the state, but we will have all our plans in place for different funding levels,” said Wimmer.
HARRIS
With an influx of new faces leading Harris, a clear plan for how to deal with the 2008 decrease in LGA and an anticipated cut in 2009 has not yet been laid out.
Council members are considering filling the city clerk position at 24 to 28 hours a week, instead of the 32 to 40 hours a week initially planned.
In order to save on utility costs, they may also close city hall one day a week, noted Harris Treasurer Marlys Belfany.
A budget workshop has been set for Jan. 26 to discuss the issue.
NORTH BRANCH
Because of the 2008 reduction in LGA, North Branch entered 2009 with $162,324 less than it had planned.
The announcement that LGA was being reduced simply came too late in the year, according to Finance Director Richard Hill.
“It reduces our cash position going into 2009, and it adds to the cash crunch that will be felt in 2009,” Hill said.
The city is just beginning to discuss areas it can cut, and is trying to identify over $400,000 worth. The city was promised $429,000 in LGA for 2009. Hill noted that it’s very difficult to get halfway through the year and then find out their LGA has been reduced. That leaves no recovery time.
The city is cutting out projects and eliminating some supplies. It will also take a hard look at consulting fees and employee costs.
“It’s going to have a substantial impact on operations,” Hill said, adding that you can’t eliminate $400,000 in a budget without it having a big effect.
RUSH CITY
Rush City lost $39,000 from its 2008 budget. It reacted in December by adjusting its budget through a variety of fund transfers.
It was too late in the year to avoid any purchases, noted City Administrator Amy Mell.
As it looks ahead to 2009, the city council is trying to be proactive. The budget committee has already met and will continue meeting to identify possible areas to cut. If the predictions are true that city LGA is cut by half, Rush City will lose one-quarter of its general fund. General fund covers streets, the fire department, police protection, administration, the airport and the city council.
“Personnel is a big part of our budget, so we’re looking at that very closely,” said Mell. Committee members have tossed around the idea of a wage freeze, as well as cuts in staff.
They have also talked about trimming down travel expenses and eliminating training expenses. The city did not plan to make many equipment purchases in 2009, which means it can’t merely cut out those, and it has no control over utility costs.
Mell said she is watching the Legislature very closely. “The problem is we just don’t know,” she said.
The cuts came too late for many cities to adjust their budgets.
“This could not have come at a worse time, as cities are closing the financial books on 2008 and were counting on full December local government aid (LGA) and market value homestead credit (MVHC) payments – amounts that were committed to by the state in July of 2007 – to meet year-end financial obligations,” said League of Minnesota Cities Executive Director Jim Miller.
In general, cities lost roughly 4 percent of their total revenue.
More cuts are anticipated as the state of Minnesota attempts to solve its budget deficit.
Local cities are responding by planning ahead and identifying areas to cut now.
BRAHAM
Braham lost $36,293 in December. ‘Like all other cities and counties, this money was already spent, and the unallotment will result in a shortfall of revenues in the 2008 budget,” said City Administrator Sally Hoy.
To compensate for the 2008 loss and an anticipated LGA loss of about $50,000 in 2009, the city council approved decreasing its 2009 budget in several areas. The city did not receive $30,000 in taxes due to delinquencies.
Employees will not be laid off, but their salaries (and that of the building official) will be reduced by five percent. To compensate for that, employees will only be required to work 95 percent of their regular work hours. City hall hours will go back to 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to reduce utility costs.
The city will not fund flowers, buy a new squad car, or pick up stray cats. It will not mail out its city newsletter, but merely post it online, nor will it send out reminders to those who forget to read their water meters. It cut funding to parks by $11,800.
CAMBRIDGE
The December blow of losing $207,383 in state money was softened by an increase of $111,988 the city received in 2008 tax revenue over what is expected. The city council had also revised its budget several times in 2008 to account for the slowing economy.
The amount earned through licenses and permits was also up by $10,000 as were other charges for services, according to Finance Director Caroline Moe.
Additionally, the city did not spend as much as it had anticipated on health insurance following a partnership with the city’s unions. That amounted to a savings of $88,178.
In all, the city was actually able to put an additional $9,539 in its contingency fund to apply for next year.
“What we remain most concerned about is whether or not the city will see any of the $801,772 in LGA certified to the city by the Department of Revenue in July 2008 while we were preparing our 2009 budget,” noted Cambridge City Administrator Lynda Woulfe. “If these funds are cut again on top of the $207,383 from 2008, it will hurt substantially.”
Woulfe and Moe are working on a plan that will pare down the 2009 budget. “This won’t be presented until we get a better sense of how the Legislature will deal with the $5.2 billion dollar deficit,” said Woulfe.
ISANTI
Isanti fixed its 2008 budget deficit of $112,316 by applying unspent 2008 dollars.
The city council then approved cutting $112,316 from its 2009 budget in anticipation of additional revenue reductions.
The city enacted a freeze on public works hiring, eliminated the warming house staff, and took out all charitable giving. The council decided not to erect granite signs for the Economic Development Authority and eliminated a transfer from the EDA fund to the revolving loan fund. Council members also imposed a “no new non-budgeted spending” rule. Additionally, $100,000 was transferred from the liquor store fund to the general fund.
“The days when Isanti or any city can count on the state to keep its financial house in order are over,” said Mayor George Wimmer. “We must do what every small- and medium-sized business must do: live within our means.” He added, “Relaying on LGA for daily operations must become a thing of the past.”
LGA accounts for 17 percent of the city’s budget.
The mayor also proposed seven other options that range from eliminating a position in public works or the police department to transferring money into the general fund from other funds.
“We will not know until late spring or early summer what to expect from the state, but we will have all our plans in place for different funding levels,” said Wimmer.
HARRIS
With an influx of new faces leading Harris, a clear plan for how to deal with the 2008 decrease in LGA and an anticipated cut in 2009 has not yet been laid out.
Council members are considering filling the city clerk position at 24 to 28 hours a week, instead of the 32 to 40 hours a week initially planned.
In order to save on utility costs, they may also close city hall one day a week, noted Harris Treasurer Marlys Belfany.
A budget workshop has been set for Jan. 26 to discuss the issue.
NORTH BRANCH
Because of the 2008 reduction in LGA, North Branch entered 2009 with $162,324 less than it had planned.
The announcement that LGA was being reduced simply came too late in the year, according to Finance Director Richard Hill.
“It reduces our cash position going into 2009, and it adds to the cash crunch that will be felt in 2009,” Hill said.
The city is just beginning to discuss areas it can cut, and is trying to identify over $400,000 worth. The city was promised $429,000 in LGA for 2009. Hill noted that it’s very difficult to get halfway through the year and then find out their LGA has been reduced. That leaves no recovery time.
The city is cutting out projects and eliminating some supplies. It will also take a hard look at consulting fees and employee costs.
“It’s going to have a substantial impact on operations,” Hill said, adding that you can’t eliminate $400,000 in a budget without it having a big effect.
RUSH CITY
Rush City lost $39,000 from its 2008 budget. It reacted in December by adjusting its budget through a variety of fund transfers.
It was too late in the year to avoid any purchases, noted City Administrator Amy Mell.
As it looks ahead to 2009, the city council is trying to be proactive. The budget committee has already met and will continue meeting to identify possible areas to cut. If the predictions are true that city LGA is cut by half, Rush City will lose one-quarter of its general fund. General fund covers streets, the fire department, police protection, administration, the airport and the city council.
“Personnel is a big part of our budget, so we’re looking at that very closely,” said Mell. Committee members have tossed around the idea of a wage freeze, as well as cuts in staff.
They have also talked about trimming down travel expenses and eliminating training expenses. The city did not plan to make many equipment purchases in 2009, which means it can’t merely cut out those, and it has no control over utility costs.
Mell said she is watching the Legislature very closely. “The problem is we just don’t know,” she said.
Jerry Tvedt retires
ISANTI COUNTY – Isanti County bid farewell to coordinator Jerry Tvedt on Jan. 9.
He led the county for 18 years.
Tvedt’s leadership was characterized by an open-door policy. He was available to all – whether citizens or employees.
“I strongly believe that’s important. If a citizen has issues, they can come in here and feel comfortable talking about it,” Tvedt observed a few days before retiring.
Tom Pagel, who served as commissioner for 22 years, praised Tvedt’s accessibility to the public and county staff members.
“The public never had trouble getting in to talk to him,” observed Pagel. And he never heard from any employee that they couldn’t get right in to talk to Tvedt about an issue.
There were many people Tvedt got used to seeing over the years. If the visit regarded a complaint about an employee, Tvedt dealt with it. His focus was on the employee doing his/her job and treating the citizen right.
With any issue, Tvedt’s first response was to work through it. He didn’t make a big issue out of things, but instead tried to minimize strife. He was firm, but fair.
This was the same way he approached the board of commissioners.
“I think he’s always given both sides of every issue in a non-biased way,” noted Pagel.
‘I’ve loved it here’
Overall, Tvedt has been pleased with the quality of employees he’s overseen. “They’ve been very good to work with.” He also doesn’t accept the common attitude that “kids these days aren’t good employees” because he’s seen many who are wonderful.
He’s also been pleased with the commissioners he’s worked with.
“If you work with a good board, and you have good employees it’s very gratifying,” Tvedt observed.
“Frankly, I’ve loved it here.”
During his last board meeting on Jan. 6, Tvedt choked up as he said, “This has been the best job. It’s hard for me to leave.”
‘I love a challenge’
Raised on a farm, Tvedt’s first job was milking cows by hand. “I think it gave me a good work ethic,” he noted.
He remembers when they switched to milking machines. “We got kicked a lot until we got them trained.”
Tvedt has received a paycheck from six employers in his life. He started out as a bus boy at Bridgeman’s while attending the Minneapolis Business College. The ice cream shop at 38th and Central is now a Chinese restaurant.
Then he spent a year throwing cases of pop at the Coca Cola plant. He next tried his hand as a clerical staff member in the sales department at Peavey Company, a flour milling company.
Then he got a job closer to his roots. He kept the books at Gillespie Auto Company on Main Street in Cambridge for eight years.
Tvedt’s next career move was into the public sector. He head there was a job opening in the Kanabec County Auditor’s office and decided to apply. He was hired as the Kanabec County Auditor.
Working as a public servant wasn’t a life Tvedt daydreamed about as a child. But once he began working in the auditor’s office he discovered how much he enjoyed county government.
As an auditor, he dealt with the tax system, was responsible for the county’s books, handled payroll, organized elections, and made sure various policies were being followed.
In 1995, Tvedt applied for the open Isanti County Coordinator position and was hired.
Current commissioner George Larson was chair of the board at the time. “I have never regretted the decision to hire Jerry,” said Larson. “He’s done a good job.”
“I love a challenge, and this has been a challenge,” Tvedt said.
Times, they are a changin’
In the past 18 years, Tvedt has helped lead the county through many changes. Most of them have been sparked by growth.
The county’s population growth has put pressure on all its departments, from zoning to the treasurer. “We have to provide staff to deal with the growth,” Tvedt noted. That includes ensuring there is enough space for business to take place. During Tvedt’s watch, the county expanded its jail and added another building to house family services. The county is just beginning a year and one-half-long project to enlarge offices at the government center to take advantage of the space family services vacated.
Moving into the Oakview facility saved the county money, Tvedt pointed out. The cost of adding a third floor to the government center building would have been double the amount. “I think we did the right thing,” he said.
“When we do things, we do things right, but we haven’t gone overboard and provided a Taj Mahal.”
His own office has added staff to deal with the rising population and its needs. When he started in 1995, Tvedt handled everything. On his advice, the board of commissioners promoted Barb Baar to handle personnel issues. This gave Tvedt more time to deal with citizen requests and employee issues.
At the same time, Tvedt worked to make operations more efficient.
“He’s streamlined our personnel policies,” praised Pagel.
He’s not going away
Tvedt knows he’ll miss the job and the people he came in contact with.
“Anytime you go through change it’s difficult,” Tvedt noted, “but it will be good.”
His wife Joyce is retiring at the same time, and the two plan to focus on their nine grandkids.
“Just because I’m retiring doesn’t mean I’m going away,” he said.
Tvedt plans to continue meeting with a group of eight past and present Isanti County staff members for Thursday burgers at the Cambridge Bar and Grill. And he’s sure he’ll come down for lunch with commissioners after their meetings on Tuesdays.
He’s also going to continue pushing the Minnesota State Legislature to live up to promises it has made to counties. In particular, Tvedt will continue to lobby for the full 50 percent reimbursement for probation officer salaries that the state is supposed to provide. This year the figure is at 36 percent.
Humbled to have had position
Tvedt is humbled that he was given the opportunity to work for Isanti County’s citizens.
“It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve the people,” said Tvedt. “I’ve tried to do the best I can.”
He is confident that he’s leaving the county in good hands. “I strongly believe Kevin Van Hooser will continue to serve the people with respect. He’ll do a good job.”
Drugs seized at Cambridge residence, couple arrested
CAMBRIDGE – A Cambridge couple was arrested Monday, Jan. 12 after police discovered drug paraphernalia and 3.5 grams of methamphetamine in their home at 432 Third Avenue Southwest.
Shannon and Richard Lind’s two children were taken into care by Isanti County Family Services.
According to Cambridge Police Chief Dave Pajnic, the search at the Lind’s home was the result of a joint investigation by the police department and the Isanti County Sheriff’s Department.
In addition to the meth and drug paraphernalia, officers seized two firearms and $500 in cash.
S. Lind, 28, was home when during the search, along with a child just under two years old. She was arrested and charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine-related crimes involving children.
Her 39-year-old husband was arrested at his place of employment in Coon Rapids. He was charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine-related crimes involving children.
Both were taken to the Isanti County Jail.
A nine-year-old child was at school when officers searched the home.
Shannon and Richard Lind’s two children were taken into care by Isanti County Family Services.
According to Cambridge Police Chief Dave Pajnic, the search at the Lind’s home was the result of a joint investigation by the police department and the Isanti County Sheriff’s Department.
In addition to the meth and drug paraphernalia, officers seized two firearms and $500 in cash.
S. Lind, 28, was home when during the search, along with a child just under two years old. She was arrested and charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine-related crimes involving children.
Her 39-year-old husband was arrested at his place of employment in Coon Rapids. He was charged with fifth degree controlled substance possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamine-related crimes involving children.
Both were taken to the Isanti County Jail.
A nine-year-old child was at school when officers searched the home.
Reward offered for information on hit and run
CAMBRIDGE – Heidi Westman doesn’t understand how someone could hit a parked car and then leave without trying to find the owner.
Her 2006 Pontiac G6 was struck on Wednesday, Jan. 7 while it was parked on Second Avenue Southeast by Sidelines Sports Bar and Grill in Cambridge. It was located right next to the alley.
The entire rear end of the vehicle was damaged, including the taillight, bumper and trunk. The damage amounts to between $3,000 to $4,000.
The vehicle was struck between 8:10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. while Westman was at work.
She suspects that a large truck or a semi-tractor trailer making a delivery struck her vehicle based on the height of the damage.
Westman is offering a reward to anyone with information on the culprit. Call her at 763-552-5200.
“How can people be so inconsiderate?” she questioned. “I’d really like to find the person who did it.”
TO A POINT: State: that's no way to run a business
I can't read the state news stories anymore. If it's not a story about our bungled election system (seriously, how could it swing so far?!), it's a story about how messed up our state finances are.
I want to see some fixes, and I want to see them now. Are you with me?
I'm the first person to say we need to cut government spending. The government takes one-third of our paychecks – that's excessive if you ask me, and grounds for another tea party in Boston's bay. But when the state starts taking away money it promised a year ago from local counties and cities, I can't condone that. It's bad budgeting.
What do we expect local government bodies to do when suddenly, at the end of the year, they discover that the money they planned on last year (because the state told them it was coming) now isn't? They're out hundreds of thousands of dollars. Braham lost $36,293, Cambridge $207,383, Harris $19,519, Isanti $112,316, North Branch $162,324, and Rush City $39,296. Local counties were also touched. Isanti County lost $278,157 and Chisago County $539,395.
There's no way to raise the levy now to cover the shortfall. Instead, these local cities and counties are now in the red. Their budgets look bad, and they'll have to raise taxes to cover not just one shortfall, but most likely two. The 2009 levy is already set, as well, and the state is predicting it will cut what counties and cities expected to get this year too, perhaps by as much as half. At least they have more than a few weeks to prepare for this next decrease. They can adjust their budgets down now. Perhaps that's what the governor is aiming for.…
I hope he's taking aim at those state figures, as well.
I feel pretty confident that the majority of spending my local government bodies do is not wasteful. I don't have that same confidence about the state. I see waste all over the place, in fact. On top of that, I don't see them taking care of what I consider to be essential services, such as making sure our roads and bridges are up to par and installing high-speed transit.
People, we can't expect to get everything. There is a limited amount of money (despite how the treasury is acting as it just keeps printing more and more soon-to-be-worthless cash). Let's start making things pay for themselves. If it brings in a profit, then it can afford a new laboratory. If we want art and music in our lives, let's support it by buying tickets to events. If we really want a new pool, users need to be prepared to pay for the cost of maintaining it.
It's the same principle I apply in my own life. If I want something bad enough, I start putting away my pennies to save up for it.
It's time our state and federal government remember that lesson. It's time they remember they're not spending money that comes from somewhere out there. They're spending our money.
I want to see some fixes, and I want to see them now. Are you with me?
I'm the first person to say we need to cut government spending. The government takes one-third of our paychecks – that's excessive if you ask me, and grounds for another tea party in Boston's bay. But when the state starts taking away money it promised a year ago from local counties and cities, I can't condone that. It's bad budgeting.
What do we expect local government bodies to do when suddenly, at the end of the year, they discover that the money they planned on last year (because the state told them it was coming) now isn't? They're out hundreds of thousands of dollars. Braham lost $36,293, Cambridge $207,383, Harris $19,519, Isanti $112,316, North Branch $162,324, and Rush City $39,296. Local counties were also touched. Isanti County lost $278,157 and Chisago County $539,395.
There's no way to raise the levy now to cover the shortfall. Instead, these local cities and counties are now in the red. Their budgets look bad, and they'll have to raise taxes to cover not just one shortfall, but most likely two. The 2009 levy is already set, as well, and the state is predicting it will cut what counties and cities expected to get this year too, perhaps by as much as half. At least they have more than a few weeks to prepare for this next decrease. They can adjust their budgets down now. Perhaps that's what the governor is aiming for.…
I hope he's taking aim at those state figures, as well.
I feel pretty confident that the majority of spending my local government bodies do is not wasteful. I don't have that same confidence about the state. I see waste all over the place, in fact. On top of that, I don't see them taking care of what I consider to be essential services, such as making sure our roads and bridges are up to par and installing high-speed transit.
People, we can't expect to get everything. There is a limited amount of money (despite how the treasury is acting as it just keeps printing more and more soon-to-be-worthless cash). Let's start making things pay for themselves. If it brings in a profit, then it can afford a new laboratory. If we want art and music in our lives, let's support it by buying tickets to events. If we really want a new pool, users need to be prepared to pay for the cost of maintaining it.
It's the same principle I apply in my own life. If I want something bad enough, I start putting away my pennies to save up for it.
It's time our state and federal government remember that lesson. It's time they remember they're not spending money that comes from somewhere out there. They're spending our money.
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