May 4

Country Courier
S e r v i n g To d d C o u n t y , M N
VOLUME 21; NUMBER 11 - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 2012 CIRCULATION 10,000 - FREE

Eagle Bend school building is a site of opportunities

The east side of the Eagle Bend School. Many of our communities have watched as school district consolidations emptied out useable buildings. The Hewitt school has found new life as a museum. On the other end of the spectrum, the Grey Eagle building is crumbling. A group of Todd County citizens is reluctant to let the latter happen to a quality building in the center of the county; one that could become a hub of activities for our aging population. This group met recently and the article below provides details of the project as well as an update. Photos attached. Nancy Leasman Syndicated Senior Stories leatherwood@wisper-wireless.com By Nancy Leasman Lets face it: those of us who live in Todd County and the surrounding areas do so because we like it here. Were willing to forego certain amenities, like shopping malls and freeways, in order to see the stars at night, not be held up by too many traffic lights, and go fishing without making a trip of it. As we face the projected future of Todd County were told that in less than 20 years, our resident population will be made of three times the current number of senior citizens. Do we want the aging of Todd County to wash over us or do we want to plan for that future? In a New York Times online commentary, Tina Rosenberg says, Many of us look forward to spending retirement expanding our world traveling, trying what we never had time to do, taking classes that give us new knowledge and skills. These activities are not only desirable in themselves, they help us to live longer and healthier lives. But they are not within everyones reach. Absent money and a sense of possibilities, retirement can become more time to fill with television. We see people without money, who had very hard lives, who are not aware of their own potential, said Maureen Kellen-Taylor, the chief operating officer of EngAGE, a program in the Los Angeles area that provides arts and other classes for some 5,000 people the vast majority of Continued on page 11.

By Sue Farmer. Before humans and their gargantuan machines created a craterfilled moonscape in the quest to remove every ounce of iron ore from deep in the earth, this area was a natural wonderland of gently rolling hills, forests, lakes and wetlands. The removal of millions and millions of tons of iron by open pit and underground mining created thousands of jobs, established the boom towns of Crosby and Ironton, fed Americas insatiable appetite for steel, generated millions of dollars for a few, cost many miners their lives and laid waste to the land. Iron mining in the Cuyuna Range in Crow Wing County and Aitkin County began in the early 1900s, dwindled in the 1950s and ceased in the 1970s, felled by competition from overseas and the domestic taconite industry. Huge mining pits up to 500 feet deep, buildings, equipment and 200 foot high slag piles were left in the wake of an industry gone belly up. As I bike along the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail on this fine late August afternoon, it is hard to believe this is the same area. Mother nature has magnificently smothered the wounds. Ground water has gradually filled the abandoned mining pits, creating 15 pristine, fish-filled lakes. Forests of aspen, oak, birch and ironwood have regenerated along with red, white and jack pines. Marsh areas lined by cattails and sedges have filled in the lowlands. Meadows brim with big blue stem, Indian grass, prairie drop seed and a host of late summer wildflowers. Human reclamation efforts have also helped the regeneration process along. In 1993, nearly 5,000 acres in this area became the Cuyuna Range State Recreation Area. The area is a work in progress. Hiking, skiing and biking trails are being developed as are campgrounds, drive in and carry in boat, canoe, kayak accesses, swimming beaches, scenic overlooks and picnic areas. Old rail lines and mining roads provide a host of opportunities for trail development. Several years ago, a paved bike trail from Brainerd to Aitkin, traveling through the recreation area was proposed. To date, just seven miles of the trail have been paved, from Riverton to Crosby. It is a delightful little trail in the heart of an emerging gem in the Continued on page 11. states park and recreation area

Cuyuna iron range is a rare beauty, once again

Sun and shadow greet bikers on a winding trail through the woods.

Keep up to date on all the local happenings with a subscription to the Browerville Blade
Todd County $22 In Minnesota $27 Out of state $32

Yes, I would like to subscribe to the Browerville Blade PO Box 245, Browerville, MN 56438 Name_________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________

Amount Enclosed
$________________ NEW______________ Renew______________ Gift______________

Please enter me in the cash prize drawing.

Todd County Country Courier, Page 2 Friday, September 7, 2012

Todd County Country Courier, Page 3 Friday, September 7, 2012

SOCIAL SECURITY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

By Sharon S. Rushford, District Manager Question: I have never worked, but my spouse has. What will my Social Security benefit be?

Answer: You can be entitled to as much as one-half of your spouse's benefit amount if you start your benefits when you reach full retirement age. If you want to get Social Security retirement benefits before you reach full retirement age, the amount of your benefit will be reduced. The amount of reduc-

tion depends on when you will reach full retirement age. For example, if your full retirement age is 66, you can get 35 percent of your spouse's unreduced benefit at age 62. The amount of your benefit increases at later ages up to the maximum of 50 percent if you retire at full retirement age. However, if you

are taking care of a child who is under age 16 or who gets Social Security disability benefits, you get full benefits, regardless of your age. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/y ourspouse.htm.

Kris Winkelman Cooking Columns

Fall is knocking at our door time to turn on the oven and start making one of our favorite meals lasagna. With our garden full of cabbage I thought this would be a great way to use it up. Its very simple you can put together at the last minute and pop it in the oven and in 30 minutes you will have a family meal that everyone will enjoy.

Mule Deer & Cabbage Lasagna

1 med head of cabbage (cooked & sliced into wedges) 1 pound ground mule deer 1 med onion (chopped) 1 jar Ragu spaghetti sauce Cherry Tomatoes Fresh Basil (cut into strips) Parmesan cheese ( shaved or shredded) Mozzarella cheese (shredded) Layer in greased 9x13 pan, enough cabbage to cover bottom set aside. Brown meat & onions in skillet, stir in Ragu spaghetti sauce heat together and pour over cabbage. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake 30 minute in 350 degree oven. Remove pan from oven add parmesan, tomatoes and basil serve with toast.

Used books for all ages! Picture books to mystery novels and more!

Appliances, furniture, pots & pans, kitchen utensils, sliverware, plates, glasses...

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

A wide variety of clothing for the entire family PLUS bedding linens and more!

Toys and games for children of all ages

TOYS

TODD COUNTY FARMERS UNION 31st ANNUAL PICNIC

On behalf of the Todd County Farmers Union, we would like to thank our contributors for their wonderful donations to make the event a success. Special thanks to Rep. Collin Peterson, Doug Peterson, Farmers Union State President, Dairy Princesses Rachel Perish, Liz Mellgren, and Erin Rausch and all the local candidates who shared the day with us. Thanks Dan Remer for the music and the city of Clarissa for the use of the park. Thanks to everyone who helped or came to the event, you all made it a wonderful event and well see you next year. Please support the businesses listed below. We apologize to anyone we may have omitted. Todd County Farmers Union officers, Alan Perish, President, Lynn Erickson, Vice President, Judy Buhl, Secretary, and Lonnie Iverson, Treasurer. County Commissioners Eagle Bend & Rose City Dahlman Abstract Countryside Restaurant Burger King Gary Kneisl, Gerald Ruda, Randy Neumann B & W Transmission Dairy Queen Dairy Queen Mayer, Porter & Nelson, LTD County Officers & Dept. Heads Calif-Minn Honey Farms Dan's Prize Four-Legged Lodge Bounds Financial Services Cheryl Perish- Recorder Central Ag Eagle Bend Dave Ruby Construction Lake Country Ins. Borstad's Law Office Chuck Pelzer- Assessor Creative Floors Denny's Electric Markus Hair Design Burrows Auto Body Chuck Rasmussen- Attorney Dick Baso Insurance Agency Dingmann Funeral home Motley Auto Repair Card's Auto Karen Busch- Aud/Treas. Donna Maes Cafe East-West Realty Mr. Ed's Restaurant Central Building Supply Kathy Langer-Comm. Corrections Eagle Bend Farm & Lumber Ecowater North Country Carpet Curves Loren Fellbaum-Public Works Eagle Bend Lanes Eldred Realty R.S.C. Jewelry & Coin Davids Art Gallery Pete Berscheit-Veterans Eagle Bend Lions Everybody's Market Schmitt Chiropractic Dustins Auto Repair Polly Olson, FSA Eagle Bend Liquor Feed Store Ten Hi Liquor Ernie's Food Center Kathy Scheider-Social Services Eagle Bend Welding Fleet Supply The Silo Ice Cream Family Hair Care Entertainment Packages Eagle Plumbing & Heating Freie's Septic Service Tri County Livestock First International Bank & Trust Grand Casino- Mille Lacs Eagle Valley Custom Meats Gary Gilbert Financial Unity Bank Central Gary's Diesel Repair Jackpot Junction-Morton Eagle Valley Stylists Countryside (Gene-O's) Family Restaurant Osakis Gilbys Orchard Shooting Star-Mahnomen Jerry's Auto Body Great Bear Taxidermy A&W Giovanni's Pizza Prairie Edge Casino-Granite Falls Klein Insurance Agency Griffs Pizza Exquisite Events Giza Plumbing & Heating Alexandria- Nelson Neil's Service Center Hart Trailer Sales First National Bank Hamburg's Auto Repair Al West Agency, Northland Dairy Hillig Auto Greg Anderson Iron Hills Pawn Farmers Union Insurance Roger Berkness Sawmill Hillig Auction Service Hendricks Ins. Jackson Welding & Repair Cenex Rose City Canopy Hometown Furniture & Gifts Hensley Trucking Kuhn's Insurance Corral Supper Club Rose City Co-op Creamery Impact Technology Jacobs Lefse Bakery L.M.H. Embroidery Nelson Creamery Shirley's Gas & Groceries Irish's Larson Tree Service Lefty's Bar Velde Law Firm Star Bank Jim Woeste Auto NAPA Liquor Depot First District Creamery The Country Basket J&R Auto Repair Osakis Creamery Longbella Drug Midwest Machinery Tim Green Construction KEYL/KXDL Radio Station Osakis Home Quality Foods Mid Central Federal Savings Bank Bertha-Hewitt Tom Murch,CPA Kingsway Carpet Cleaning Osakis Silo Repair Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union B-H Transportation Town & Country Bulk Fuel L&S Repair Pro Builders Miller True Value Diamond Tood & Engineering Vets Club Eagle Bend Laureen Irsfeld Headquarters Roy Hetland Funeral Home Movie Palace & Tanning Harm's Manufacturing Grey Eagle & Burtrum Les Levin Electric Sidewalk Bar & Grill NAPA Long Pine Arnzen Trucking, Inc Long Prairie Auto Parts True Valu Hardware Nelson Insurance Seip Drug Bitz Marine Long Prairie Chiropractic Mike Denery Ultimate Auto Care Northern Eye Clinic Seven Oaks Browen Grocery Long Prairie Country Club Paynesville Nyhus Chevrolet Steve Peterson, Ins. Brunos Hub Supper Club Long Prairie Dental Clinic AMPI Olson Feed Service Star Bank Central Minnesota Long Prairie Eye Clinic Randall & Cushing Peter Brenny Dental Browerville Federal Credit Union Long Prairie Leader-Practical Printing Bermel's Shoes Precision Polishing & Plating 2 Chicks on the Corner Double R Saloon Long Prairie Livestock Hair Fashion and Gifts Sharodan Aksamit Bus Service Eagle Auto Repair Inc. Long Prairie Machinery Northland Well Drilling Schimpp Real Estate Asfeld Tax Service Eagle Fabricating Long Prairie Oil OK Tire & Bait Scott's Southtown Service Al Hoelscher - Marty Host Agency, Gessels Auto Long Prairie Packing Pams Yard Shear Contact Country Insurance Grey Eagle Electric Long Prairie Plumbing Randall Building Supply Snack Shop Browerville Blade K & B Specialities Long Prairie Rental Randall Cafe Spot Cafe Browerville Hardware Kutter Agency Long Prairie Vet Clinic Randall Liquor Spur Self Service Browerville Liquor Style N Go Long Prairie VFW Randall State Bank Staples Auto Sales Browerville Motel & Knotty Pine The Rock Tavern Marlene Clark, Attorney Stone Hill Staples Eye Clinic Browerville Vet's Club Rahn's Oil and Propane Marty Jenkins Iron Sauk Centre Staples Precision Metal Craft Inc Brown's Service Center Shipwrex Mid Central Federal Savings Bank Arnie Service Center Staples Vet Clinic Cherry Grove Market Update Building Center Mikey's Cafe Centre Auto Staples World Christ the King Church Village Cafe MN National Agency Centre Dairy Equipment Super America Dan's Prize Little Falls MN National Bank Centre Sports Thrivent Financial Duane's Repair Ag Star Bank MN Power and Light Country Store Tower Pizza Farmer's Co-op Feed Store Brandl Motors NAPA Culligan Towns Edge Fine Wood Structures Central McGowan Neil's Motor Sports Dairy Queen Twisted Sisters Iten Funeral Home Evergreen Equipment Northern Star Propane Dairyland Supply Williams Floral & Nursey Josh's Body Shop Farmers Union Ins. Now & Then Ceramics Dan Welle Southtown Unity Bank Central Kathy's Korner Kurls Minn. Power & Light Onas Crafts Diamond Point Vintage Golf Konetzkos Meat Market Simonson Lumber Past Time Antiques Eyes on Main Swanville Knotty Pine Embroidery & Scrubs Tri-City Paving Paul Grave's Truck Repair Feidt Financial Services 12 Mile Tavern Land O' Lakes Westside Liquor Peters Churchwell Law First State Bank Agency Debs Beauty Salon Little Wings Massage Long Prairie Petron, Tom-Petron Potatoes Fleet Supply Grandma's Cafe Noska Plumbing 8s Pub & Grill Phillips Repairable Flowers Tire One Hollerman's Repair Our Neck of the Woods Ace Hardware Prairie Building Center Fredericks Tire & Oil Loven's Auto Center Paul's Pawn & Bargain Ace Realty Prairie Lakes Coop Gerrards Nielson Hardware Statema Backhoe Advantage Agency Prairie Woods Laundry Hair & Body Connection Pro Fuel Steve's Country Market ALCO Prairie Salon & Tanning Heartland Gallery Riverside Meats Tesoro Gas American Family InsuranceRadio Shack Heaven & Earth Essentials Roto Molding The Gallery Doug Schmidt River Place Therapy John Wiese Ford Sonny Peterson Clarissa American Heritage Bank S.A. Design & Graphix License Bureau Swanville Insurance Allen & Patsy Holmquist American Legion 1 - Long Prairie SAVE Foods Main Street Dairy Swanville Produce Battle Lake Outdoors American Sportsman Club & Gun Sellnow Law Office Meads Dept. Store Verndale & Aldrich Busy Bee Cafe & Gifts Auto Value Southside Auto Midwest Equipment Aldrich Repair Central Ag Bacon Accounting Subway MN National Bank Aldrich Tractor Clarissa Family Dental Bargain Barn Thrifty White Drug MN Sawdust & Shaving Bob's Barber Shop Clarissa Drug Becker Excavating Thunder Lodge Modern Farm Bullseye Bar & Grill Clarissa Liquor Bisels Auto Sale Hwy 71 Todd County Vet Mortgages On Main-M.O.M Carrs Shell Station Cheerington Bliss Massage Tollifson Photography Mustang Bar Star Bank Donnas Country Side Daycare Breitenfeldt Ins. Total Tire & Gear Next Door Bar Steves Auto Repair Eagle Valley Express Brown & Krueger Law Office Whole Food Co-op North Side Body Shop Ted & Gens Farmhouse Cafe Budget Host Motel Wolters Body Shop Red Carpet Verndale Liquor Hinzmann Gravel Burger King Worms Ready-Mix Sauk Centre Herald Wayne's Discount Hobbit Hollow CNC Melrose Saukinac Wadena Independent News Herald Casey's Gas Stearns Electiric Association Schaeffer's Market Culligan Jon's Foods Cathedral Press Miltona Scott Feist Down Home Food Line's Buliding Center Central Bi-Products L&J Food & Liquor Standard Iron Evergreen Equipment Marys Etc. Shop Central Home & Comfort Lakes Gas Co. Studio 71 Fleet Supply Michelle's Hair Care Central Minnesota Miltona Blacksmith The Peach Harvest Thyme Bistro Olson Truck Repair Federal Credit Union Miltona Builders The Wax Pot Hockerts Cleaners Special Again Boutique Cenex Miltona Custom Meats & Sausage Trisko Plumbing & Heating Jolene Johannes-State Farm Ins. Todd County Vet Clinic Charles Moberg, DVM Miltona Liquor Truckers Inn KWAD Radio Unity Bank East Coborn's R&R Ready Mix Staples Lyles Shoe Store Unlimited Golf and Video Countryside Plumbing & Heating Motley A.C.S. Todd-Wadena Electric Co-op Custer Floral Auger Express Auto License Bureau True Value D&J Hair Stylists Bricks Travel Auto Value Wadena Hide & Fur

Todd County Country Courier, Page 5 Friday, September 7, 2012

"The breezes taste Of apple peel. The air is full Of smells to feelRipe fruit, old footballs, Burning brush, New books, erasers, Chalk, and such. The bee, his hive, Well-honeyed hum, And Mother cuts Chrysanthemums. Like plates washed clean With suds, the days Are polished with A morning haze." - John Updike, September

Farmers Coop Fall T ire Extravaganza!

Promotion Ends November 30, 2012

Cooper Tire Promotion Ends November 6, 2012

See Store For More Details On Qualifying Tires.

FALL SPECIALS
Husqvarna Commercial P-ZT 61 Cut / 26 Hp
36 Month No Intrest To Qualified Buyers

Farmers Coop
Feed Store
Browerville, MN 320-594-2711/2415 Follow Us On Facebook
More Than Just Your Neighborhood Feed Store

0 Retail $3,3 99.95 $ 1,5 Sale Price

8.00

Retail $7,499.95 Rebate of $300

Magnum Generator Electric Start/5600 Watt/47 max. amp 120v/240v/GFI Protected AC Outlet

ASK A TROOPER
by Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol Question 1: Is a rural mail carrier required to wear a seat belt when delivering the mail? Infrequently, I act as a substitute mail carrier. The vehicle I drive is not a right hand drive vehicle. The route consists of 170 miles of mostly rural driving and it is almost impossible to connect and reconnect the seat belt when there are more than 100 mail boxes along the route. Answer 1: An exemption according to Minnesota State Statute (M.S.S.) 169.686 Sub.2 would be a rural mail carrier of the United States Postal Service or a newspaper delivery person while in the performance of duties. So as long as you are actively delivering the mail, you do not have to legally wear your seat belt. Question 2: I would like to know what the speed limit is on gravel roads. I know it can't be over 35 mph right? Answer 2: If the gravel road speed limit is not posted it would be 55 mph. Some rural residential districts may have 35 mph zones posted on their gravel roads which would obviously be that speed limit. Rural twolane roads mean greater risk for head-on collisions and unsafe passing; narrow shoulders; poor lighting at night. So remember, always drive at safe speeds according to road conditions, and provide for plenty of travel time. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. Or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us

Todd County Country Courier, Page 6 Friday, September 7, 2012

* SERVICE * SERVICE * SERVICE

JIM WOESTE
AUTO SALE & SERVICE
HWY. 71 South - Long Prairie

LOOKING FOR A GREAT CAR. . JUST LOOK FOR THE STAR Contact Jim Woeste 8 626 Lake St. - Hwy. 71 S. Long Prairie

We do auto repair and service

Call 320-732 3874

888-732-3874

Oil Change & Chassis Lubrication

$21.95 + tax
Includes: filter disposal according to EPA regulations, Up to 5 qts. oil & filter, Misc. fluids extra. No other discounts allowed. In-town pick-up Only Valuable Coupon

Where Life Begins... Again!

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

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

www.valleyviewassistedliving.com

320-732-3516

Todd County Country Courier, Page 7 Friday, September 7, 2012

Iten Funeral Home

Mike & Heidi Iten - Owners

P.O. Box 81 Browerville, MN 56438 320/594-2242

itenfuneralhome.com / itenfuneralhome@browervillemn.com

LONG PRAIRIE PACKING CO.,LLC

Part of American Foods Group

IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Wednesdays & Thursdays 8 A.M. - 4 P.M. and Saturdays 8 A.M - 12 Noon Openings in general labor positions processiong bulls and cows in our Harvest and Fabrication departments

QUICK START

UP TO

$15.15/hour When Qualified

We offer a great benefits package which includes medical, dental, prescription drug coverage, vision and 401K.
ly App ! Now
Conditional job offers are contingent on passing a pre-employment physical and drug screen. Long Prairie Packing is an equal opportunity employer.

10 Riverside Drive, Long Prairie, MN

Applications may be picked up at the plant.

Need A Ride?
call

M EDI VAN
For Specialized Transportation

Call Anytime!
24 Hours a day - 7 days a week

1-800-422-0976
MEDI VAN
Wheelchair Service Stretcher Services Available Direct Billing Family Members Welcome State Inspected Vans and Equipment for Safety Trained, LIcensed Drivers Medical Assistance Approved Examples of approved destinations include: Routine exams or checkups, consultations, x-ray therapy sessions such as kidney dialysis, radiation, physical or respiratory therapy
I.C.C. No. MC271742 U.S. D.O.T. No. 550588

Todd County Country Courier, Page 8 Friday, September 7, 2012

Looking For Affordable Family Fun?

Knotty Pine Ballroom
Now Offering Catering Services

FOR ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Banquets Weddings Graduations
LIVE BEER MUSIC SET -UPS

CALL NOW FOR 2011 & 2012 DATES

~320-594-2248 ~
Blake Dixon ~ Owner Blake Dixon
Located 1 mile South of Browerville

FULL COLOR ADVERTISING FOR BLACK & WHITE PRICING!

SEPTEMBER AT THE MOVIES!

Sept 7-9 The Bourne Legacy (PG 13) Campaign (R)

For only $47 a month, you can advertise in our Dining & Entertainment section.
Call Stacey for details ~ 320-594-2911

Sept 14-16 To Be Decided

We Are Going To Stay Open Into September As Long As The Weather Is Good And We Stay Busy. Check Our Website For UpDates & Movies Info.

staff@bladepublishing,net

Looking To Get Your Business Noticed?

Taking Future Booking? New Menu? New Location? New Owner?

Our Dining & Entertainment section is for you!

Let customers know what you have to offer! Become part of our dining & entertainment guide today! Keep the public informed!
Long Drive In 320-732-3142

thelongdrivein.com
24257 Riverside Drive Long Prairie

High School School Sports Are In Full Swing! Dont Miss The Action! Subscribe To The Browerville Blade And Keep Up With How Your Hometown Team!

BROWERVILLE BLADE
Todd County $22 In Minnesota $27 Out of State $32 College Rate (9 months) $15

Browerville Blade PO Box 241 Browerville, MN 56438 320-594-2911 Bladepublishing.net

Todd County Country Courier, Page 10 Friday, Friday, September 7, 2012

NEIGHBORHOOD COUNSELING CENTER

Emotional well-being is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
OUR STAFF IS COMMITTED TO A COMMON SENSE, PRACTICAL APPROACH TO POSITIVE MENTAL HEALTH.

Individual, Family & Group Therapy Outpatient Chemical Dependency Program

Psychiatric Services Psychological Testing/Assessment Play Therapy for Children

If we can help - please call us at:

218-631-1714
11 2nd St. SW Wadena, MN 56482

Serving Central Minnesota for 21 Years

Minnesota's pheasant index up 68 percent from 2011

A mild winter followed by a warm spring contributed to a significant increase in Minnesota's pheasant count, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The pheasant population index increased 68 percent from 2011. Pheasant hunters are expected to harvest about 290,000 roosters this fall. That's up from last year's estimated harvest of 204,000 but roughly half the number taken during the 2005-2008 seasons when hunting was exceptionally good. "While the 2012 increase reflects movement in a positive direction, the counts still remain 51 percent below the 10-year average," said Kurt Haroldson, the DNR biologist who compiled the survey. While favorable weather worked in the birds' favor this year, their long-term success is more closely linked to habitat than annual variations in snowfall, rainfall and temperature. "The state's pheasant population is linked more closely to quantity and quality of habitat than annual differences in weather," Haroldson said. The pheasant population estimate is part of the DNR's annual roadside wildlife survey. The survey summarizes roadside counts of pheasants, gray (Hungarian) partridge, cottontail rabbits, white-tailed jackrabbits and other wildlife observed in the early morning hours during the first half of August throughout the farmland region of Minnesota. The highest pheasant counts were in the west central region, where observers reported 58 birds per 100 miles of survey driven. Hunters will find good harvest opportunities in portions of west central, east central and southwest Minnesota. The most important habitat for pheasants is grassland that remains undisturbed during the nesting season. Protected grasslands account for about 6 percent of the state's pheasant range. Farmland retirement programs such as Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CRP), Reinvest in Minnesota and Wetlands Reserve Program make up the largest portion of protected grasslands in the state. High land rental rates and competing uses for farmland diminish the economic attractiveness of farmland conservation programs. During the next three years, contracts for 620,000 acres of CRP lands are scheduled to expire. If not re-enrolled, this would reduce CRP acres in Minnesota by 42 percent. Minnesota's pheasant population largely has mirrored what's happened on the land. "Pheasant numbers were higher during the small, diversified farming days from roughly 1931 to 1964 when habitat was more abundant," Haroldson said. "Pheasant numbers declined during the intensive farming boom from 1965-1986 as field sizes grew and habitat shrank. Then, pheasant numbers rebounded when CRP began in 1987. However, enrollment in that program peaked several years ago, and further declines will not bode well for future pheasant populations." To help offset continued habitat losses caused by reductions in conservation set-aside acreage, DNR has accelerated acquisition of wildlife management areas in the farmland region of Minnesota. DNR also supports habitat conservation on private lands by working with a variety of partners in the Farm Bill Assistance Partnership and Working Lands Initiative. More than 15,000 acres of private property have been opened to public hunting through the state's Walk-In Access program. The August roadside survey, which began in the late 1940s, was standardized in 1955. DNR conservation officers and wildlife managers in the farmland region of Minnesota conduct the survey during the first half of August. This year's survey consisted of 171 routes, each 25 miles long, with 152 routes located in the ring-necked pheasant range. The complete report is available online at www.mndnr.gov/hunting/pheasant. Observers drive each route in early morning and record the number and species of wildlife they see. The data provide an index of relative abundance and are used to monitor annual changes and long term trends in populations of ring-necked pheasants, gray partridge, eastern cottontail rabbits, white tailed jackrabbits and other select wildlife species. The gray partridge index also increased from last year and is similar to the 10-year average. The cottontail rabbit index remains below the 10-year and long-term average. The jackrabbit index was 96 percent below the long-term average. Finally, the mourning dove index was 36 percent above last year but similar to the 10-year average.

Upland bird day offers adult and youth beginners a hunting how-to
Beginning and novice hunters are invited a free hands-on clinic that will introduce adults and youth to ruffed grouse and pheasant hunting from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Dakota County Gun Club in Rosemount. Upland Bird Day is a joint event of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Dakota County Gun Club, and Pheasants Forever. The event is open to men, women and children ages 10 and older who are accompanied by a guardian. The program is free but registration is required. "Upland bird day is an opportunity to learn the basics of upland bird hunting," said Linda Bylander, an outreach program coordinator for the DNR. "It is tailored to those who have not yet hunted upland birds or have limited experience." Participants will learn about grouse and pheasant biology and management before rotating through hands-on learning stations. Participants will learn how to hunt a field with or without a dog as well as how to how find hunting land. They will also shoot and pattern a shotgun, observe a field hunt and learn how to care for hunting dogs. Registration is limited for this free class. To register, contact Linda Bylander at 218-833-8628 or linda.bylander@state.mn.us. Information on other programs for women and families is available on the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/bow or by calling the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-6466367.

Application deadline for upland bird hunt Sept. 10

Inexperienced youth and women hunters have until Monday, Sept. 10, to apply for a chance to step into the field with an experienced upland bird hunter at locations across much of Minnesota on Saturday, Oct. 20. Co-sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), hunt participants are paired with mentors from Pheasants Forever, Woodcock Minnesota and the Ruffed Grouse Society. After discussing safety, habitat, ethics, scouting for places to hunt and securing landowner permission when necessary, mentors take participants into the field. Parents and guardians must accompany youth at all times and at all events. To participate in the lottery, youth must be 12-17 years old as of Oct. 20; have earned a valid firearms safety certificate; possess a small game license; and have a parent, guardian or adult authorized by a parent or guardian accompany them as a non-firearms carrying mentor to join the youth at a pre-hunt orientation as well as the hunt. Women need a valid firearms safety certificate or an apprentice hunter validation certification, pheasant stamp (if pheasant hunting) and small game license. Applications are available online at mndnr.gov/discover or by contacting the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or tollfree 888-646-6367. Successful applicants will be notified via mail or email by the end of September.

School, continued

A view of the auditorium with seating upper and lower. them low-income living in senior apartment communities. They just had to get through life, taking care of things, and the idea of following a dream was not on their radar screens. Rosenberg says that both physical fitness and mental fitness are crucial for aging well. One of the best all-around exercises for older adults is doing theater. The researchers Helga and Tony Noice (she is a psychologist, he is an actor) gave nine 90-minute classes to a group of adults. Some did theater training, some trained in visual arts and another group did nothing. After four weeks, the differences in cognitive function were astonishing. The theater trainees scored nearly a 60 percent increase in problem-solving abilityand the gain was sustained. The Noices believe that theater is especially good for the brain because it requires engagement on many levels emotional, physical and intellectual. What does this have to do with Todd County? The opportunity exists right now to do something for those who plan to age here: the availability of a structurally sound building in a centralized location with enough space to provide senior housing, economic viability, and prospects for both physical and mental fitness- the high school building in Eagle Bend. The group of people who have a creative vision for the building is as important as the site itself. What began as discussion of the future of senior services in Eagle Bend grew and ultimately drew the attention of the Initiative Foundation and Minnesota Public Radio and focused on the aging of Todd County. A Healthy Community Partnership grant as well as funding through the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) narrowed that focus to the need for a better kitchen for preparing the countys bundled services meals. Additional ideas surfaced and it was proposed to use the same kitchen for catering meals for area schools, baking bread as a source of ongoing income, and as a processing site for local foods producers. Phase one of the project, which was to get an architects ideas of how the existing 2100 square foot kitchen and adjacent area (nearly the same size as the current Eagle Bend Senior Center and only a small portion of the school building) could fit that purpose, has been completed. The next obvious steps are to develop a budget for that plan and find the money to do it. But what about the rest of the building? A tour of the school reveals a structurally sound building with base walls 2.5 feet thick. Constructed during the 1940s under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) program, the building has terrazzo flooring throughout. It has a 500 person capacity auditorium on two levels, a full gym, current handicap accessibility on one level, a large wood working shop, a sprinkler system throughout, a boiler system in good repair, and just a lot of flexible space since it was built to have non-supporting interior walls. Those walls can easily be removed to convert the classrooms to other purposes. Suggested ideas include a new identity as the hub of the county with, in addition to the kitchen and local foods processing site: up to 30 apartments filling the need for senior housing, exercise space for fire departments, a quilting room, computer area, meeting rooms, a wood shop for men (and women) who dont have that kind of space in their homes or apartments, a craft/hobby shop for people to sell their goods, office space, veterans

services, intergenerational activities (sharing such traditional knowledge as cooking, canning, bread making, embroidery, crochet, knitting, wood crafts and more), leasing of space for data storage and classes, and the arts. Pluses include saving an exceptional building, enjoying socialization with the greater community of Todd County, and jobs. Enough land adjacent to the building will allow for parking, landscaping, and walking trails. But what about the roof? Dan Rabenhorst, head custodian for Eagle Valley schools says it is 18years-old and patching has taken care of leaks. How will the project be financed? Recent interest expressed by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) and possible partnership in senior housing opens new financing options and may be a key piece of the puzzle. Money may be available for green communities. County Administer Nate Burkette said he will look into funding options. We can pull in revenue from all sorts of sources. What about all those stairs? One level is currently at ground level and accessible. An elevator in the central core would make all of the building accessible. Who will own it? The Eagle Valley School District owns the building and will continue to own it and maintain it until some other entity takes over. That other entity may well be a non-profit organization to be formed to oversee the project. Eagle Bend City Administrator Kevin Hess offered to find out more about 501 C 3 status. What is the time frame? Phase I, the kitchen and food services has been designed. The next step is the funding. Phase II will be to figure out the housing portion. It could be developed in additional phases or a major effort and county-wide support could bring it together more quickly. Verna Toenyan, Aging Coordinator for the Todd County Council on Aging, agreed to seek funding for an architectural design for the rest of the building. Sharon Notch who chairs the Eagle Valley school board said, This is a county-wide effort to make Todd County sustainable and attractive to seniors; we need to keep our minds open to that. I for one don't want to be sitting around waiting to be waited on! said Toenyan. We either put dollars into a healthy environment or pay in health care costs. The Eagle Bend City Council has supported this project. Its a perfect opportunity to set an example, said Hess. People from other states would even come and see how it works. Questions and ideas may be directed to Verna Toenyan at verna.toenayn@co.todd.mn.us. See the full NY Times commentary at: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes. com/2012/08/15/for-healthyaging-a-late-act-in-the-footlights/ Learn more about EngAGE at: http://www.engagedaging.org/ Read all Syndicated Senior Stories at www.ssstories.homestead.com

Todd County Country Courier, Page 11 Friday, September 7, 2012

Cuyuna, continued
system. A public parking area for the paved trail and the areas extensive mountain bike system is located a quarter mile north of Crosby off Highway 6. I begin my journey there, head west on the Cuyuna Lakes State Trail and am soon immersed in the beauty of biking past five lakes. As I zoom along, my view to either side of the trail is an optical smorgasbord of a hundred shades of green, bright yellow wildflowers, dark tree trunks and flashes of crimson and gold sandwiched between blue sky and reflective cobalt blue waters. The sumac have already turned toward fall, beaming bright red in the late afternoon sunshine. The gold belongs to the aspen and birch, who are doing autumns bidding a bit early due to the lack of moisture this summer. The first lake on the trail is the Portsmouth Mine Lake, one of the largest lakes in the chain. Some 13 million tons of ore were stripped from this mine. A plaque by the U.S. Geologic Survey just off the trail informs visitors about the mining history in this area and is worth a stop. Another history lesson is available at the underground Croft Mine located at the end of the trail in Crosby. The mine is open for self-guided tours weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Next the trail winds past Armour #2 Lake, one of the smaller lakes, but a genuine aquatic jewel. A picnic table and bench make this a nice spot to take a short granola bar break and watch the waves roll in and the world go by. The trail is not a straight shot to Riverton and it winds between the lakes. The twists and turns and up and down grades make this trail much more fun to ride than the monotonous straight a ways of most rail to trail conversions. The only problem with this trail is there just isnt enough of it. I would love to bike from Brainerd to Aitkin traveling through the lakes country. Someday. Pennington Mine Lake slides by to the north as an immature bald eagle glides by overhead. Huntington Mine Lake comes up on my right. An overlook area and bench beckon me to stop and take a look around. The lake is a long, sprawling one with crystal clear water. It is a hot day and the sharp breeze blowing off the lake is most welcome as is the sight of a pair of loons. I continue pedaling and on my left is Blackhoof Lake, one of the natural lakes along the trail. Blackhoof is a large lake and keeps me company for a while. The trail is high above the surrounding terrain here and I look down on a back bay smothered with water lilies. In every forest opening are growing the wildflowers of fall, sunflowers, white and blue aster, tansy and goldenrod. Monarch butterflies are swarming the goldenrod, a spectacular show of orange and gold. Little Blackhoof Lake comes into view and shortly after that the end of the paved trail. I look west to a grass-filled, tree-lined gap in the forest that will someday be a trail. There is a parking lot at this end of the trail and just down the road is Riverton. Its an old mining town that now consists solely of a few residences, not even a place to buy a Coke. I take a few photos at the end of the trail, which is bordered by forest, fences and wild sunflowers. The wooden fences are a new addition to the trail, I guess to keep people from riding off the trail and getting hurt or maybe someone thought they were a nice touch. The fences, which appear intermittently long the trail in areas with sharp drop offs, make this kid-friendly trail even more so. The trail runs mainly through the countryside, crossing just a couple of lazy county roads. Even though there isnt a pop machine in Riverton, there is a nice kids playground, which is always a good way to occupy kids as the adults take a break before for the return trip. At the other end of the trail, Crosby has a very nice kids park and a swimming beach. I decide to make my return trip a sprint since it is just seven miles and I have lots of energy. I am helped along by the wind at my back and a few downhill grades that let me coast for more than a mile. Back at the parking lot, I decide to give mountain biking a try. I have a cross trainer and hope my tires and suspension are good enough to try the beginner trails. This area is the rock star of Minnesota mountain biking with 25 miles of trails running the gamut from beginner to super expert. The expert, narrow, rust rock trails jet up and down steep inclines, offering hairpin turns, heart pumping descents and spectacular views of the lakes and forests. Alas, those trails are not for me. I check the map and discover that there is an easy-rated trail running along the shoreline of Sagamore Lake. Sagamore, an old mine lake, is located southwest of Crosby just off Highway 59. Sagamore Road takes one right to the boat access and a parking lot. I off load my bike and head into the woods hoping for the best. The terrain is easy going, just slight up and down changes in terrain, but the ground is rough, rocky and bone jarring. It is more fun than I thought it would be and a great way to get into the woods that surround the lake. The lake, shimmering blue and silver in the slanting sunlight, is visible though a line of deciduous and pine trees. A couple of huge cement towers pay silent homage to the areas mining history. The trail, which opened this spring, must have been a railroad line at one time as railroad ties jut out here and there. On the northwest side of the lake are a series of more difficult trails with names like Dynamite, Discombobulater and Savage. Ill save those for another time. With the sun tilting toward the western horizon, I pedal back toward the parking lot as I am in unfamiliar territory and have no desire to be stuck in the boonies as night falls. As I bike through an open meadow a bobolink takes flight. Later a song sparrow perches on a pine branch and whistles me a joyful tune. From deep in the woods I hear the ridiculous giggle of a pileated woodpecker. Having these fantastic trails just 75 miles from home seems to me like a great excuse to buy a good mountain bike and try something different and just a bit crazy. There is a bike and paddle shop in Crosby that rents mountain bikes just in case people want to give the Cuyuna hills a try without investing in the equipment. More information on the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area is available at mndnr.gov/state_parks/cuyuna_country. There is no fee to use the paved bike trail or the mountain bike/hiking trails.

Professional & Business Directory

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

Building & Remodeling

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

Farm Supply

Healthcare

FEED - SEED - FERTILIZER

320-594-6366 Doug Noska Browerville

Free Estimates
Master Plumbers #PM003101 Well Contractors

Central Ag Ser vice

Clarissa (218) 756-2112 Eagle Bend (218) 738 2552

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

Northland Dairy Supply, Inc. 218-738-2582 Eagle Bend

Milking Equip. Bulk Tanks Water Cond. Badger Feeding Forage & Manure Systems Berg & SiloMatic Equip. WIC Equip. Cow Mats Stalls & Silos

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

Blinds Shades Drapery Valances

Noska Construction LLC

Drywall Tiling Taping Framing Roofing Lic # 20634520

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

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

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

Todd County Country Courier, Page 12 Friday, Friday, September 7, 2012

Grant Noska
28888 Oak Ridge Road

Browerville, MN 56438

320-630-3638
FOR SALE
For Sale at Lovens Gifts - Crafts - Glassware Tools - Furniture - Fishing Flys Purses - Gloves - Bedding - Dolls - Etc. Behind Post Office in Browerville. Call 1-320-594-2464 Look tf for Open sign. __________________________

Todd County Public Health

IMMUNIZATIONS NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY - FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE Vaccine available: Diphtheria Tetanus Pertussis (DTaP), Polio, MMR, Hib, Varicella, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, HPV, Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, Tetanus Diphtheria, Tetanus Diphtheria Pertussis (Tdap) Call 320-533-4652 for more information. Tue. Sept. 11, Assemblies of God, Eagle Bend, 9 - 12 noon Mon., Sept. 24, Long Prairie IMM Clinic, Courthouse Annex, 9:30 - 12 noon & 1 - 4 pm CHILD AND TEEN CHECKUPS Call for an appointment 320533-4652 or 1-800-953-4440. Tue. Sept. 11, Assemblies of God, Eagle Bend, By appointment, call Debra 320-533-4652 Tue. Sept. 18, Wed. Sept. 19, Thur. Sept. 20, & Wed. Sept. 26, Courthouse Annex, By appointment, Call Debra 320-533-4652 FAMILY PLANNING & HEALTH SERVICES For more information or an appointment call 1-877-275-6123. Thur., Sept. 27, Family Planning Clinic, CentraCare Clinic, Long Prairie, By appointment only, 1-877-275-6123

HELP WANTED
Potato warehouse workers Immediate openings now until October Tom Petron Potato Farm apply in person at 26299 US 71 Long Prairie, MN 56347
__________________________

FOUND
Left at The Cafe in Browervillea prayer book, inscription is to Pauline from Dad & Mom, Dec. 13, 2006, call 320-594-2414 or stop to pick it up. ____________________________

WANTED
Experienced chimney sweep to clean the Stainless Steel chimney of my wood stove. Please call and leave a message with your name, service rates, and reftf erences. 320-594-7067.
___________________________________

WIC - WOMAN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN Tue, Sept. 11, Eagle Bend WIC, Assemblies of God , 9 am - Noon Mon, Sept. 17 & Wed, Sept. 19, Long Prairie WIC, Main Street Government Center, 9 am - 4 pm, (across street from Post Office) Call 1-800-953-4440 or 320732-4456 to see if you are eligible for WIC. PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING CLINICS Wed. Sept. 12, Village View Apartments, By appointment, Grey Eagle, Nona Walker 320285-2667 Thurs. Sept. 13, Sunrose Courts, Browerville, By appointment, Theresa Zirbes, 320-5940078 Thurs. Sept. 13, & Sept. 27, Senior Center, By appointment, Long Prairie, Myrna Golnitz 320732-2282 Fri., Sept. 14, Hillside Apts., Browerville, By appointment, Florence Rickbeil, 320-594-6391 Tue. Sept. 18, Senior Center, Bertha, by appointment, call Jo Kern 218-639-2080 Wed. Sept. 19, Heritage Place, By appointment, Clarissa, Irene Kotula 218-756-2212 Thurs. Sept. 20, Greenleaf Apartment Building, Eagle Bend, By appointment, Lois Klucas 218-738-5180

For Sale: 8.5X26 TriAxle Aluminum Trailer

Very heavy duty. Good deck. Surge Brakes Good shape

$3,000

Call: Dan, 763-458-4846

Your business ad here... Contact Stacey 320-594-2911 or

staff@bladepublishing.net
Central Minnesota Electric, Inc.

Todd County Country Courier, Page 13 Friday, September 7, 2012

GIZA
PLUMBING & HEATING
EST. 1934

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

Check us out online www.

bladepublishing.net

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

Backhoe Service, LLC

Free Estimates

Statema

THREAD SHEDS
Browerville
Thread Shed I 320-594-6456

Complete Professional Wiring Service

Staples
Thread Shed II 218-895-5023

Sauk Centre
Thread Shed III 320-352-2829

MPCA Certified Septic Systems

Daves Septic Service

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

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

From design to installation Compliance inspections Licensed-Bonded-Insured

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

Stop by one of the 3 Thread Sheds Today!

Dahlman Abstract Company

Incorporated since 1958

Twardowski Excavating, Inc.

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

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

SERVING TODD COUNTY WITH COMPLETE ABSTRACTING SERVICES

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

S YSTEMS

Toll Free 888-594-6347

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

532 Hwy 71 N., Eagle Bend -

218-738-2913

HAVE YOUR AD SEEN BY THOUSANDS

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

Todd County Country Courier, Page 14 Friday, September 7, 2012

What's in your duck boat?

By Babe Winkelman

There are few things that compare to an early morning in the duck boat, gliding through the dark as the bow breaks skim ice... getting to that perfect bulrush point or backwater bay... planning the decoy spread and setting the blocks perfectly for whatever species that's targeted... pushing the boat into the rushes and settling in, with a steaming cup of hot coffee in hand; a ready shotgun within reach; and an anxious dog softly whining... waiting for the telltale sound of whistling wings overhead as the sun crests the eastern horizon. Waterfowlers are a passionate bunch, because there's magic to that. Gunning for ducks and geese is something that's definitely in our blood. I count myself as one of the crew, even though I can't get out waterfowling as much as I want to, and a lot of my hunting takes place in fields versus water. But I will always love the experience, and that special feeling of anticipation on the water just before sunrise. The feeling is greatest when everything is just right, and that only happens when you've prepared things properly. Perfection is in the details, which starts with your duck boat and what you put in it. The first consideration is the boat itself. Is it well-suited for your hunting situation? For example, if you hunt big water like I usually do in Minnesota, where the wind can whip up big rollers in an instant, it's critical to success and safety that the boat can handle it. This means hunting from a deep-V hull design that can take the waves. If you hunt solo or with one other hunter, a 14-footer is ideal. With 3-4 hunters, then upping to a 16 is best. In marshes and backwaters, a mod-V or flat-bottom boat is preferred for its shallow draft and ability to get into skinny water where puddle ducks like to loaf and feed. Whatever hull fits your application, one thing applies to all boats - and that is dependable power. I see so many duck hunters who have old, abused outboards on their duck boats. They put the "junker" on there while a superior engine is reserved for the fishing boat. This just isn't right, because if there's an outdoor pursuit that demands the finest power, it's duck hunting. Think about it: duck hunting is synonymous with cold weather and cold water. Often freezing conditions. And, hunters routinely have big bodies of water all to themselves. Which is great for hunting, but if you get in a jam and need assistance from another boat, there's nobody around to help you like there typically is while summer fishing on a busy lake. So if you're as passionate about waterfowling as I am, insist on equipment you can count on. My duck boat has an Evinrude E-TEC 15-hp on it. There isn't a cold-blooded bone in its body, so I know it's going to crank right up and perform whether it's 60 degrees on opener or subfreezing during the late season. Another reason it's a perfect choice for waterfowlers is because E-TEC doesn't require winterization followed by hibernation. When the weather gets below freezing, you can "winterize" it right at home with a simple push-button process after your hunt. Then get up the next morning and fire it right up without fear of freeze-up. With other engines, once they're winterized they're out of commission until spring. Some other boat considerations for successful waterfowling are concealment and storage. Effective boat camouflage is essential to cheating the keen eyesight of wary ducks and geese. Even small worn spots in painted aluminum can send unnatural glints skyward and spook ducks. So whether you camouflage with

paint, camo tarps or full enclosures, make sure your concealment is complete. I always like to bend natural cover into the inside of the boat too, because having real vegetation incorporated into your manmade camo can make a real difference. Several boats today are made specifically for waterfowling, complete with lock-

able, water-tight gun lockers and gear boxes. We don't all have the luxury of having a boat like that. I know I don't. But a good waterproof, heavily-padded gun case will protect your expensive shotgun just as well. And a big travel cooler with a secure lid latch, all painted with dead-grass paint, is an affordable and useful dry box for shells, calls, extra clothes and other essentials.

Remember to plan for worst-case scenarios whenever you load your boat for duck hunting. Of course you'll need legal PFDs, and you should wear one at all times. Keep a spare prop and a tool kit on board for potential pitfalls. Additional safety equipment includes a first-aid kit, emergency whistle, cell phone, bright flashlights, a fire extinguisher, anchor, pushpole and paddle, hand-held GPS and extra

clothes including rain gear. The weather can change on a dime during duck season, and preparedness can make all the difference in the world. I hope you have a fine waterfowl season and that you stay safe, shoot straight and thoroughly enjoy the magic of waterfowling with family and friends. So here's to wishing you whistling wings over your boat..

LUKES SADDLE & BOOT REPAIR

33896 Cty Rd. 21 Browerville, Mn
2 miles north of Browerville CUSTOM MADE SADDLES, TACK, CHAPS, ETC.

320-760-5029

CALL BEFORE YOU STOP MARK & CHERYL LUKE Repair of: Boots, Shoes, Zippers, Baseball Gloves, Etc.

Dr. Peter Brenny

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

And Tree Service

Stump Grinding with Portable Grinder
Duane Johnson Swanville

320-547-2408
Free Estimates Experienced Reasonable Rates Insured

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

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

Bill Nelson, Broker

Vanguard Insurance Services,Inc.

Auto Home Life Health Farm Business
Independent Agent Joe Pesta Agency
529 Lake St. S. P.O. Box 28, Long Prairie, MN 56347

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

Paving the way for you!

Staples, MN 56479
218-894-2871 - or 218-820-8227

PAUL DRAKE TREE SERVICE

*Topping *Trimming *Tree & Stump Removal *Deer Plots & Trails *Custom Lot Clearing & Brushing

Asphalt Paving - Seal Coating - Fill - Black Dirt - Gravel Crushed Rock - RipRap - Sod - Basements - Site Prep - Driveways Ag Lime - Parking Lots- Landscaping - Ponds - Demolition Hauling - Excavating - Peat

218-894-3105

COMPLETE & PROFESSIONAL

Bucket Truck

INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

Todd County Country Courier, Page 15 Friday, Friday, September 7, 2012

SEPTEMBER is............
Self Improvement Month, Be Kind To Editors and Writers Month, International Square Dance Month, Cable TV Month, National Bed Check Month, National Chicken Month, National Courtesy Month, National Honey Month, National Mind Mapping Month, National Piano Month, National Rice Month, National Papaya Month, and Classical Music Month September 1 is. . . . . Emma M. Nutt Day September 2 is. . . . . National Beheading Day September 3 is. . . . . Skyscraper Day September 4 is . . . . . Newspaper Carrier Day September 5 is . . . . . Be Late For Something Day September 6 is . . . . . Fight Procrastination Day September 7 is . . . . . Neither Rain Nor Snow Day September 8 is . . . . . National Date Nut Bread Day and Pardon Day September 9 is . . . . . Teddy Bear Day September 10 is . . . . Swap Ideas Day September 11 is . . . . No News Is Good News Day September 12 is . . . . National Pet Memorial Day and National Chocolate Milkshake Day September 13 is . . . . Defy Superstition Day September 14 is . . . . National Cream-filled Donut Day September 15 is . . . . Felt Hat Day September 16 is . . . . Stay Away From Seattle Day and Collect Rocks Day September 17 is . . . . National Apple Dumpling Day September 18 is . . . . National Play-doh Day September 19 is . . . . National Butterscotch Pudding Day September 20 is . . . . National Punch Day September 21 is . . . . World Gratitude Day and International Banana Festival September 22 is . . . . Hobbit Day and Dear Diary Day September 23 is . . . . Checkers Day and Dogs In Politics Day September 24 is . . . . Festival Of Latest Novelties September 25 is . . . . National Comic Book Day September 26 is . . . . National Good Neighbor Day and National Pancake Day September 27 is . . . . Crush A Can Day September 28 is . . . . Ask A Stupid Question Day September 29 is . . . . Poisoned Blackberries Day September 30 is . . . . National Mud Pack Day

Date Nut Bread

1 1/2 cups dates, pitted and chopped 2 1/4 cups boiling water 3 teaspoons baking soda 1 cup chopped walnuts 2 cups white sugar 3 tablespoons margarine 2 eggs, beaten 1 teaspoon salt 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon vanilla extract DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine baking soda with the boiling water. Soak the dates in the water and baking soda solution for 30 minutes. 2. Cream sugar and butter together. Add eggs, vanilla, dates, nuts, flour, and salt. 3. Divide batter equally between two 9 x 5 (or 8 1/2 x 4 1/2) inch greased loaf pans. Bake 1 hour at 300 degrees F (or until loaf tests done). Can be frozen when cool.

Sellnow Law Office

Generations Of Service

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

Residential & Commercial

The General Store

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

G. Marlene Clark, P.A.

Attorneys at Law
REPAIR & SALES

Over 20 years plumbing & heating experience!

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

FREE ESTIMATES Greg Ziegler

Master #076343-PM

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

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

Our customers talk...

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

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

1-320-632-0485
ziegler.greg@yahoo.com

www.goldsmithlf.com

HORSESHOE

Ziegler
Plumbing & Heating
Ziegler Plumbing & Heating, owned by Greg Ziegler, has been in business since 2003. Greg has been in the plumbing and heating field since 1990. Ziegler Plumbing & Heating specializes in all your plumbing and heating needs. From commercial to residential, new construction to remodel, heating or cooling. Ziegler Plumbing & Heatings name is recognized for its quality and experience. We are confident that our high work ethics, extensive experience, proven capabilities, available resources and proof of bonding and insurance capacity, plus our A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau will assure you to conclude that we are more than qualified to be your plumbing and heating contractor of choice. Greg has three dedicated employee's. Bryan Pogreba, Chet Vukelich, and Jim Ziegler, who combined with Greg, offer 80 years of experience. Greg offers free estimates, and works statewide. Ziegler Plumbing & Heating offers the most honest pricing in the area. Customer satisfaction is the #1 priority. Fall is the perfect time to have your heating equipment serviced. Call today for an appointment. 1-320-632-0485.
Bowling Center Sports Bar & Grill Lunch Menu Drink Specials HWY. 71 Long Prairie 320-732-2913 Family Fun Groups Parties and more!

SEPTIC SERVICE
Por tab le Toilet Rentals

Browerville, MN

Were #1 in the #2 Business!

800-282 2895 320-594-2895

SERVING CENTRAL MN

Where Life Begins...Again

MBC Drainage LLC

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

Valley View Estates

Locally Owned Family Operated

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

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

1104 4th Ave NE, Long Prairie, MN

Combined work experience over 90 years!

Be Seen By 10,000 Readers Each Month For Only

YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

45

00

Together, Jim Ziegler, Bryan Pogreba, Owner Greg Ziegler and Chet Vukelich make up Ziegler Plumbing & Heating with 80 years of combined experience.
Todd County Country Courier, Page 16 Friday, Friday, September 7, 2012

320-594-2911