Tom Emmer won after the second ballot was complete at the Republican state convention in Minneapolis today. The second ballot's margin was 56-43 in favor of Emmer.
Marty Seifert then conceded.
More will follow on this Saturday morning.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
A crowd of over a hundred attends the Hoffman Health Care Mall Grand Opening
What an awesome turnout! More will follow on the event Friday morning.
Here's a link to my Dotphoto online picture album: http://freescout.dotphoto.com/CPViewAlbum.asp?AID=6142949
...and a video clip.
Lost dog brought to Grant County Humane Society in Elbow Lake
Brought in April 28th 2010: Young Great Pyreneese female from City of Elbow Lake. If not claimed within 5 business days, the dog becomes the property of the Grant County Humane Society 218-685-6220.
This is an eye opener - and it is scary!
What is this, a scene from Hitler's Germany?
My birth certificate is under lock and key at my bank. As were my parents' birth certificates. Why should we be expected to carry our birth certificates with us at all times?
Why, why, why????
Seriously folks! Who carries their birth certificate with them? Is that an expectation we should have as an American citizen? For the love of God, the guy spoke fluent English with a heavy Spanish accent - and somehow that brings "reasonable suspicion" that he is an illegal immigrant?
My birth certificate is under lock and key at my bank. As were my parents' birth certificates. Why should we be expected to carry our birth certificates with us at all times?
Why, why, why????
Team results from the Minnewaska Area Track and Field Invitational
Girls' team scoring at Minnewaska: (1) Paynesville Area 128 (2) Lac qui Parle Valley/Dawson-Boyd 123 (3) Benson/Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg 116 (4) Minnewaska Area 60 (5) Chokio-Alberta/Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley 46 (6) West Central Area 39 (7) Morris Area 27 (8) Wheaton/Herman-Norcross 18.
Boys' team scoring at Minnewaska: (1) Morris Area 157 (2) Lac qui Parle Valley/Dawson-Boyd 132 (3) Minnewaska Area 62 (4) West Central Area 57 (5) Paynesville Area 45 (6) Benson/K-M-S 44 (7) Wheaton/Herman-Norcross 34 (8) Chokio-Alberta/Clinton-Grace-ville-Beardsley 28.
Boys' team scoring at Minnewaska: (1) Morris Area 157 (2) Lac qui Parle Valley/Dawson-Boyd 132 (3) Minnewaska Area 62 (4) West Central Area 57 (5) Paynesville Area 45 (6) Benson/K-M-S 44 (7) Wheaton/Herman-Norcross 34 (8) Chokio-Alberta/Clinton-Grace-ville-Beardsley 28.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
West Central Area South elementary fourth graders participate in Kids' Groundwater Festival in Alexandria today
Here's a video clip from part of their hands-on session about "Invertebrates and Water Quality."
Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors' baseball defeats West Central Area Knights 12-2 in five innings
The Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors baseball team improves to 8-1 overall with the win. They host Ashby on Thursday at 5:00pm in a Pheasant Conference game.
WCA falls to 0-5 on the season. They travel to Breckenridge (3-1) on Thursday for a Heart O' Lakes Conference double-header beginning at 4:00pm. It also marks the beginning of conference play for both the Knights and Cowboys.
In girls' fastpitch action on Tuesday night...in a non-conference game at Osakis, the West Central Area Knights' fastpitch team lost 14-4 to the host Silverstreaks. Osakis improved to 8-0 with the win. WCA's fastpitch team travels to Breckenridge on Thursday to start Heart O' Lakes Conference play against the paired team of Breckenridge/Campbell-Tintah (4-2 overall).
WCA falls to 0-5 on the season. They travel to Breckenridge (3-1) on Thursday for a Heart O' Lakes Conference double-header beginning at 4:00pm. It also marks the beginning of conference play for both the Knights and Cowboys.
In girls' fastpitch action on Tuesday night...in a non-conference game at Osakis, the West Central Area Knights' fastpitch team lost 14-4 to the host Silverstreaks. Osakis improved to 8-0 with the win. WCA's fastpitch team travels to Breckenridge on Thursday to start Heart O' Lakes Conference play against the paired team of Breckenridge/Campbell-Tintah (4-2 overall).
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
West Central Area and Wheaton/Herman-Norcross track and field teams will compete at Minnewaska Area today
WCA eighth grader Jared Oachs (in front) burns down the track at Minnewaska Area today during the 100-meter Dash at the track and field invitational.
The meet begins at 4:30pm today at the Minnewaska Area high school sports complex. It may be windy, but the sun will be shining!
Come on out to support your local track and field athletes.
Here's a video clip from the track meet...with Jared Oachs and Matt Blehr running in the 100-meter Dash.
The meet begins at 4:30pm today at the Minnewaska Area high school sports complex. It may be windy, but the sun will be shining!
Come on out to support your local track and field athletes.
Here's a video clip from the track meet...with Jared Oachs and Matt Blehr running in the 100-meter Dash.
Monday, April 26, 2010
This Thursday night - bring family and friends into Hoffman for the Health Care Mall's Grand Opening celebration! 7-9pm
Click on the ad below to enlarge for more details.
Below is a view of the new lobby area at the Hoffman Health Care Mall.
The Hoffman Health Care Mall Grand Opening is coming on April 29 from 7 to 9pm. Mark your calendars and be sure to bring the family to this event, as we celebrate a wonderful achievement for the Hoffman-Kensington-Herman area.
This is a perfect opportunity for you to meet the new health care professionals at the Hoffman Health Care Mall and learn about the services they can provide for you and your family.
Minnesota business taxes are 15th-lowest in the Nation
Minnesota’s taxes on businesses are the 15th lowest in the nation. That is the finding in the annual study conducted by Ernst & Young and the Council on State Taxation, a national association of corporate tax attorneys.
“The claims often made by Governor Tim Pawlenty that Minnesota has an uncompetitive tax structure for businesses are false, and this study proves it,” said Wayne Cox, executive director of Minnesota Citizens for Tax Justice.
The study, Total State and Local Business Taxes 2009, also found:
Minnesota’s annual business taxes would have to be $940 million higher in order to reach the national average of the states.
Minnesota’s total state and local taxes on businesses in 2009 were 4.3% of the state’s private sector Gross State Product. The national average for the states was 4.7%.
Minnesota’s state and local taxes on businesses grew at a much smaller rate over the last four years than the national average for the states.
In an earlier finding, COST said, because of deductions, Minnesota actually only collects 30 cents on the dollar of the 9.8% corporate income tax rate. COST said credits and exemptions under the Minnesota corporate net income tax totaled 70%.
COST also gave Minnesota the second highest score in the nation for fair, efficient tax administration.
COST, an association of 600 corporate tax attorneys, commissions Ernst & Young to conduct the study each year. It tallies all state and local taxes imposed on businesses, including corporate income taxes and the extent that the individual income tax falls on business owners. The study measures the taxes paid as a portion of private business activity in the state and then ranks each state.
“Pawlenty’s claims have been false for quite some time,” Cox said. “Last year, the study ranked Minnesota 13th lowest overall—yet time and time again in the last year, Governor Pawlenty has claimed Minnesota is uncompetitive.
“Last year the market value of the top 100 Minnesota corporations grew by $138 billion, or 46%. Yet Governor Pawlenty proposed $800 million in business tax cuts for next biennium—when the state faces a projected deficit of $6-$7 billion.
“The legislature took a much wiser course for jobs now and for the future. It rejected Pawlenty’s request for massive tax cuts for successful businesses. Instead it approved construction estimated to produce over 20,000 jobs, and it targeted investment in innovative new companies.”
“The claims often made by Governor Tim Pawlenty that Minnesota has an uncompetitive tax structure for businesses are false, and this study proves it,” said Wayne Cox, executive director of Minnesota Citizens for Tax Justice.
The study, Total State and Local Business Taxes 2009, also found:
Minnesota’s annual business taxes would have to be $940 million higher in order to reach the national average of the states.
Minnesota’s total state and local taxes on businesses in 2009 were 4.3% of the state’s private sector Gross State Product. The national average for the states was 4.7%.
Minnesota’s state and local taxes on businesses grew at a much smaller rate over the last four years than the national average for the states.
In an earlier finding, COST said, because of deductions, Minnesota actually only collects 30 cents on the dollar of the 9.8% corporate income tax rate. COST said credits and exemptions under the Minnesota corporate net income tax totaled 70%.
COST also gave Minnesota the second highest score in the nation for fair, efficient tax administration.
COST, an association of 600 corporate tax attorneys, commissions Ernst & Young to conduct the study each year. It tallies all state and local taxes imposed on businesses, including corporate income taxes and the extent that the individual income tax falls on business owners. The study measures the taxes paid as a portion of private business activity in the state and then ranks each state.
“Pawlenty’s claims have been false for quite some time,” Cox said. “Last year, the study ranked Minnesota 13th lowest overall—yet time and time again in the last year, Governor Pawlenty has claimed Minnesota is uncompetitive.
“Last year the market value of the top 100 Minnesota corporations grew by $138 billion, or 46%. Yet Governor Pawlenty proposed $800 million in business tax cuts for next biennium—when the state faces a projected deficit of $6-$7 billion.
“The legislature took a much wiser course for jobs now and for the future. It rejected Pawlenty’s request for massive tax cuts for successful businesses. Instead it approved construction estimated to produce over 20,000 jobs, and it targeted investment in innovative new companies.”
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Numerous additions (photos) have been added to the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's Facebook fan page
If you are a Facebook user, be sure to become a fan of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune! Just do a search for "Herman-Hoffman Tribune" and click "like".
Also, more photos and photo albums have been added to the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's online photo gallery. Just visit our website and click on the "DotPhoto" link on the left hand column.
www.HermanHoffmanTribune.com
Once you're at the DotPhoto website, you can scroll through four pages of photo albums, with many of the albums containing sub-albums with additional photos related to each topic.
Here's the direct link to the photo album with pictures from last night's Hoffman American Legion/Auxiliary Western Show: http://freescout.dotphoto.com/CPViewAlbum.asp?AID=6139720
Also, more photos and photo albums have been added to the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's online photo gallery. Just visit our website and click on the "DotPhoto" link on the left hand column.
www.HermanHoffmanTribune.com
Once you're at the DotPhoto website, you can scroll through four pages of photo albums, with many of the albums containing sub-albums with additional photos related to each topic.
Here's the direct link to the photo album with pictures from last night's Hoffman American Legion/Auxiliary Western Show: http://freescout.dotphoto.com/CPViewAlbum.asp?AID=6139720
Saturday, April 24, 2010
First governor's endorsement ballot is in at the Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party state convention in Duluth, with Margaret Anderson Kelliher in 1st
Margaret Anderson-Kelliher speaking at the 7th congressional district DFL convention in Fergus Falls on April 10.
The order came in as follows:
1st - Margaret Anderson Kelliher - 27%
2nd - R.T. Rybak - 21.7%
3rd - Paul Thissen - 18.8%
4th - Tom Rukavina - 18.4%
5th - John Marty - 13%
A candidate needs 60% of the delegates to win the DFL nomination.
Here's the totals after the second ballot was completed:
1,356 total ballots cast, 814 are needed to endorse.
1st- Kelliher, 27.8%
2nd - Rybak - 24.5%
3rd - Thissen - 19.9%
4th - Rukavina - 17.6%
5th - Marty - 10%
**Update late Saturday night...Margaret Anderson-Kelliher won the DFL endorsement.
My 2 cents: in my opinion R.T. Rybak was the best candidate. His track record of cutting the Minneapolis city budget shows he knows how to balance a budget. He's what we need. I know there were unions who planned to campaign openly against him if he won the endorsement, showing that Rybak is not a left-wing radical.
With that said, Anderson-Kelliher is an outstanding candidate as well, but to really gain support across Minnesota she needs to talk about specific ways she will make cuts to the state budget in 2011.
Below Margaret Anderson-Kelliher is addressing a group at Alexandria Technical College on January 9, 2010, in advance of the February 2 local caucuses.
Below are two video clips of Margaret Anderson-Kelliher speaking at the 2010 Minnesota Farmers Union state convention, talking a little about her background and her family's roots on a dairy farm a few miles out of Mankato in the Minnesota River Valley.
You can read her biography at her official website here: http://www.margaretforgovernor.com/about
Below, Margaret Anderson-Kelliher tells Republican Tom Emmer (another candidate for Governor) to shut off his CD player during a House of Representatives committee meeting, aided by her "mom hearing".
The order came in as follows:
1st - Margaret Anderson Kelliher - 27%
2nd - R.T. Rybak - 21.7%
3rd - Paul Thissen - 18.8%
4th - Tom Rukavina - 18.4%
5th - John Marty - 13%
A candidate needs 60% of the delegates to win the DFL nomination.
- **Update at 6:02pm...
Here's the totals after the second ballot was completed:
1,356 total ballots cast, 814 are needed to endorse.
1st- Kelliher, 27.8%
2nd - Rybak - 24.5%
3rd - Thissen - 19.9%
4th - Rukavina - 17.6%
5th - Marty - 10%
**Update late Saturday night...Margaret Anderson-Kelliher won the DFL endorsement.
My 2 cents: in my opinion R.T. Rybak was the best candidate. His track record of cutting the Minneapolis city budget shows he knows how to balance a budget. He's what we need. I know there were unions who planned to campaign openly against him if he won the endorsement, showing that Rybak is not a left-wing radical.
With that said, Anderson-Kelliher is an outstanding candidate as well, but to really gain support across Minnesota she needs to talk about specific ways she will make cuts to the state budget in 2011.
Below Margaret Anderson-Kelliher is addressing a group at Alexandria Technical College on January 9, 2010, in advance of the February 2 local caucuses.
Below are two video clips of Margaret Anderson-Kelliher speaking at the 2010 Minnesota Farmers Union state convention, talking a little about her background and her family's roots on a dairy farm a few miles out of Mankato in the Minnesota River Valley.
You can read her biography at her official website here: http://www.margaretforgovernor.com/about
Below, Margaret Anderson-Kelliher tells Republican Tom Emmer (another candidate for Governor) to shut off his CD player during a House of Representatives committee meeting, aided by her "mom hearing".
WCA boys golf, fastpitch, and baseball updates - Fastpitch suffers first loss of the season, held to one hit by Ashby's Haley Ness
- Knights fastpitch:
WCA suffered 15 strikeouts at the plate.
Ashby improved to 5-2 overall with the win, while the Knights fall to 2-1 overall.
- Knights baseball:
The Knights fall to 0-4 overall with the loss and will face the host Tigers and Pelican Rapids in the Saturday games of the tournament.
- Knights boys golf:
In a Heart O' Lakes Conference boys golf meet hosted by West Central Area on Thursday night, Knights senior Logan Pfingsten shot a 36 to earn the fourth place medal in a meet held at Tipsinah Mounds, Elbow Lake.
Hawley's Brett Syverson fired a one under par 34 to take medalist honors in the first HOL meet of the year. Hawley also finished first as at team with a 148 total.
Look for full results from the meet in the April 29 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Spring Gospel Music & Variety Show coming to Hoffman this Saturday night!
The Hoffman American Legion Post 393 and Auxiliary will sponsor a Spring Gospel Music
Variety Show on Saturday, April 24th at 7:30pm at the Hoffman Community Center.
Variety Show on Saturday, April 24th at 7:30pm at the Hoffman Community Center.
Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors baseball defeats Ortonville Brandon/Evansville 9-1 in Pheasant Conference action
On Thursday, the Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors baseball team improved to 6-1 overall with a 9-1 win over a tough Brandon/Evansville Chargers squad in a game held at Evansville.
Brandon/Evansville pitchers issued 13 walks on Thursday afternoon as the visiting Warriors handed the Chargers a 9-1 loss. W/H-N collected 9 hits and also capitalized on four Chargers' errors.
Quotes courtesy of Craigolsonsports.com
"We faced a well balanced Warriors team that didn't make many mistakes," commented B/E head coach Brian Perleberg. "Their pitcher (Mason Lampe) threw strikes, limited his walks and received some great defensive play. On the other hand, we had a couple of errors that came at costly times and our pitchers gave up thirteen walks. You can't give a strong team like WHN that many opportunities and expect to win."
Coach Perleberg also noted, "Their shortstop, Kelly Engquist, took away several near hits by making some big league plays that you don't often see in high school baseball."
Engquist is a sophomore at Herman-Norcross Community Schools.
Brandon/Evansville pitchers issued 13 walks on Thursday afternoon as the visiting Warriors handed the Chargers a 9-1 loss. W/H-N collected 9 hits and also capitalized on four Chargers' errors.
Quotes courtesy of Craigolsonsports.com
"We faced a well balanced Warriors team that didn't make many mistakes," commented B/E head coach Brian Perleberg. "Their pitcher (Mason Lampe) threw strikes, limited his walks and received some great defensive play. On the other hand, we had a couple of errors that came at costly times and our pitchers gave up thirteen walks. You can't give a strong team like WHN that many opportunities and expect to win."
Coach Perleberg also noted, "Their shortstop, Kelly Engquist, took away several near hits by making some big league plays that you don't often see in high school baseball."
Engquist is a sophomore at Herman-Norcross Community Schools.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Statewide tornado drills coming today
The National Weather Service, along with emergency management agencies in Minnesota, will conduct the drills this afternoon, along with a second drill this evening for some Minnesota counties.
Here is a timeline for how west central Minnesota will be affected (times subject to change):
1 p.m. - Weather Service issues a simulated tornado watch for Minnesota
1:45 p.m. - Weather Service issues a simulated tornado warning for Minnesota counties; cities and counties will activate sirens.
2 p.m. - end of afternoon drill
6:55 p.m - a second simulated tornado warning will be issued for 73 Minnesota counties as a test for people at home and for second-shift workers. Sirens will sound again in participating counties, including all west central Minnesota counties. Three surrounding counties of Sibley, Lincoln and Pipestone are not participating.
Here is a timeline for how west central Minnesota will be affected (times subject to change):
1 p.m. - Weather Service issues a simulated tornado watch for Minnesota
1:45 p.m. - Weather Service issues a simulated tornado warning for Minnesota counties; cities and counties will activate sirens.
2 p.m. - end of afternoon drill
6:55 p.m - a second simulated tornado warning will be issued for 73 Minnesota counties as a test for people at home and for second-shift workers. Sirens will sound again in participating counties, including all west central Minnesota counties. Three surrounding counties of Sibley, Lincoln and Pipestone are not participating.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Hoffman Health Care Mall Grand Opening is Thursday night, April 29
Click to enlarge.
The Hoffman Health Care Mall Grand Opening is coming on April 29 from 7 to 9pm. Mark your calendars and be sure to bring the family to this event, as we celebrate a wonderful achievement for the Hoffman-Kensington-Herman area.
This is a perfect opportunity for you to meet the new health care professionals at the Hoffman Health Care Mall and learn about the services they can provide for you and your family.
The Hoffman Health Care Mall Grand Opening is coming on April 29 from 7 to 9pm. Mark your calendars and be sure to bring the family to this event, as we celebrate a wonderful achievement for the Hoffman-Kensington-Herman area.
This is a perfect opportunity for you to meet the new health care professionals at the Hoffman Health Care Mall and learn about the services they can provide for you and your family.
Come to Kensington this Saturday for a Lions Pancake benefit for Cathy Gylsen
Click on the photos below to enlarge for more details.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors baseball defeats Ortonville 6-3 while improving to 3-0 in the Pheasant Conference
The Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors baseball team improved to 5-1 overall with a 6-3 win over Pheasant Conference rival Ortonville on Monday in Wheaton.
The Warriors are now 3-0 in the Pheasant Conference. They won a marathon game last Thursday over neighboring rival Chokio-Alberta 6-5 in 14 innings at Chokio.
Read more on that game in the April 22 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
The W/H-N Warriors travel to Evansville this Thursday (April 22) for a conference double-header against a very solid Brandon/Evansville Chargers team. The Chargers (3-1) knocked off Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley in eight innings on Monday at Graceville by a 6-4 margin.
The first game of the double-header begins at 4:00pm.
The Warriors are now 3-0 in the Pheasant Conference. They won a marathon game last Thursday over neighboring rival Chokio-Alberta 6-5 in 14 innings at Chokio.
Read more on that game in the April 22 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
The W/H-N Warriors travel to Evansville this Thursday (April 22) for a conference double-header against a very solid Brandon/Evansville Chargers team. The Chargers (3-1) knocked off Clinton-Graceville-Beardsley in eight innings on Monday at Graceville by a 6-4 margin.
The first game of the double-header begins at 4:00pm.
Over 150 photos from the Grant County FUN Expo have been uploaded to the Tribune's online photo gallery
To find the link to our online photo gallery, visit the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's website: www.HermanHoffmanTribune.com and then click on the "DotPhoto" link on the left hand column.
The photo album is listed inside the "2010 Hoffman area events" folder.
The photo album is listed inside the "2010 Hoffman area events" folder.
West Central Area Knights boys golf competes at the Minnewaska Area Invitational on Saturday
Logan Pfingsten, the top golfer on this year's WCA boys golf team, prepares for a drive on one of the back holes at the Minnewaska Golf Course on Saturday afternoon.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Great turnout for the 3rd annual Grant County FUN Expo
...And a video clip taken when I walked through the door of the WCA North gymnasium.
Fire safety lessons...
Hundreds of locals descended on the WCA North elementary school to take in the third annual Grant County FUN Expo on Saturday morning.
Booths were set up throughout various hallways, classrooms, and the gymnasium.
More on the event will follow on Sunday evening.
For Facebook users, look for a large photo gallery of pictures from the event on the Herman-Hoffman Tribune Fan page.
(*By the way, we're up to 69 fans on Facebook! Four more individuals signed up today.
An online photo gallery will also be uploaded to the Tribune website.
The website address for that is: hermanhoffmantribune.com
**Around 7pm on Sunday night, I've started the Facebook gallery from the expo.
More will be added late Sunday evening.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Put this on your calendar - Saturday April 24 event in Kensington
Look for more on this in the April 22 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
Two big activities coming on Saturday: See you at either the Grant County FUN Expo in Elbow Lake - or the Quilt Show/Food Bonanza in Hoffman
Saturday, April 17 will be a busy and action-packed day in Grant County, as the FUN Expo will be held in Elbow Lake at the WCA North elementary school, and then the third annual HEDA Quilt Show/Food Bonanza will be held at Hoffman Square and the Hoffman Senior Center.
The Grant County FUN Expo will take place from 9:00am until Noon.
The HEDA (Hoffman Economic Development Authority) Quilt Show and Food Bonanza will take place from 10am to 3pm. The luncheon will be served from 11am to 1pm. This event takes place at Hoffman Square (the old school) in John Kleinsasser Gymnasium.
Here's a glimpse of clothes at the Hoffman Community Center gathered for the Clothes Exchange, which will take place on Saturday morning.
The Grant County FUN Expo will take place from 9:00am until Noon.
The HEDA (Hoffman Economic Development Authority) Quilt Show and Food Bonanza will take place from 10am to 3pm. The luncheon will be served from 11am to 1pm. This event takes place at Hoffman Square (the old school) in John Kleinsasser Gymnasium.
Here's a glimpse of clothes at the Hoffman Community Center gathered for the Clothes Exchange, which will take place on Saturday morning.
Oh boy... Tea Party official thinks that too many Americans are not being taxed!
While thousands of people rushed to file their taxes Thursday, others used it as a day to rally. One Tea Party protest was in Rochester.
Among the hundreds of people gathered at the Tea Party rally at Soldier's Field was David Razidlo. A father, who says he's looking out for the future of his two sons.
"When you look at the growth of the federal government, the growth of the deficit, I got concerned not just for my sake, but for the children that this can't go on," says Razidlo.
Event organizers geared the rally towards families as they shared their concerns about fairness in taxation.
"Not that we think were necessarily being taxed too much, but that too much of our population is not being taxed," says Rochester Tea Party Chair, Cindy Maves.
...what a sad, sad individual. (My opinion)
Among the hundreds of people gathered at the Tea Party rally at Soldier's Field was David Razidlo. A father, who says he's looking out for the future of his two sons.
"When you look at the growth of the federal government, the growth of the deficit, I got concerned not just for my sake, but for the children that this can't go on," says Razidlo.
Event organizers geared the rally towards families as they shared their concerns about fairness in taxation.
"Not that we think were necessarily being taxed too much, but that too much of our population is not being taxed," says Rochester Tea Party Chair, Cindy Maves.
...what a sad, sad individual. (My opinion)
Looking for a fun activity to take part in on Saturday afternoon? Come to Hoffman for the 3rd annual Quilt Show and Food Bonanza
Click on the poster to enlarge for more details.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
More video clips from the Minnesota Farmers Union rural issues discussion on April 13 at Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood
In this video clip you can listen in on an excellent discussion on biofuels and renewable energy.
A discussion on funding issues with the 4-H youth program in Minnesota.
A discussion on funding issues with the 4-H youth program in Minnesota.
WCA Speech team senior Sarah Moe giving a speech on Andrew Carnegie at the First State Bank of Kensington's spring women's event
The Spring Women's Event was held on April 8 at the Kensington Community Center.
Franken Urges Support For Struggling Minnesota Dairy Farmers
U.S. Sen. Al Franken (D-Minn.) urged U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack to take quick action in response to disastrously low milk prices. Minnesota’s dairy farmers are still struggling to recover from last year’s historic low prices and milk prices are projected to remain below the cost of production. Sen. Franken joined 21 of his colleagues in a letter to Secretary Vilsack outlining potential solutions to help struggling dairy farmers.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand how Minnesota’s dairy producers are struggling as a result of this economic crisis,” said Sen. Franken. “There are a lot of different ways we can help our farmers. I’m going to continue to work with Secretary Vilsack and the USDA to make sure we are exploring all of them, so Minnesota’s dairy producers get the help they need.”
The USDA took several proactive steps in response to low dairy prices last year. Similar actions should be taken this year, such as continuing the Dairy Export Incentive Program (DEIP), expediting DEIP payments and using the Dairy Product Price Support Program (DPPSP) to bolster the falling prices for non-fat dried milk, barrel cheese, and cheddar block cheese. In 2009, the USDA helped increase market prices without causing product acquisitions by the Commodity Credit Corporation by temporarily raising support prices. In that instance, the USDA was able to help dairy farmers earn a higher market price for their products without having to purchase cheese at the increased prices. The USDA could take the same action today to temporarily increase market prices to aid dairy producers, without incurring the costs of a purchase.
To view the letter sent to Secretary Vilsack click here: http://franken.senate.gov/files/letter/100414_Vilsack_Dairy_Letter.pdf
“I’ve witnessed firsthand how Minnesota’s dairy producers are struggling as a result of this economic crisis,” said Sen. Franken. “There are a lot of different ways we can help our farmers. I’m going to continue to work with Secretary Vilsack and the USDA to make sure we are exploring all of them, so Minnesota’s dairy producers get the help they need.”
The USDA took several proactive steps in response to low dairy prices last year. Similar actions should be taken this year, such as continuing the Dairy Export Incentive Program (DEIP), expediting DEIP payments and using the Dairy Product Price Support Program (DPPSP) to bolster the falling prices for non-fat dried milk, barrel cheese, and cheddar block cheese. In 2009, the USDA helped increase market prices without causing product acquisitions by the Commodity Credit Corporation by temporarily raising support prices. In that instance, the USDA was able to help dairy farmers earn a higher market price for their products without having to purchase cheese at the increased prices. The USDA could take the same action today to temporarily increase market prices to aid dairy producers, without incurring the costs of a purchase.
To view the letter sent to Secretary Vilsack click here: http://franken.senate.gov/files/letter/100414_Vilsack_Dairy_Letter.pdf
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Chokio-Alberta/Herman-Norcross fastpitch team loses 7-2 to Ashby in Pheasant Conference action
The Chokio-Alberta/Herman-Norcross girls fastpitch team fell to .500 overall with a 7-2 loss to Ashby in Chokio on Tuesday afternoon. It is also their first loss in the Pheasant Conference, where they are now 2-1.
The Arrows, who committed no errors in the game, improve to 3-1 overall and 2-0 in the Pheasant Conference. Also aiding their cause was eight stolen bases. They are coached by Hoffman-Kensington graduate Joey Andreasen.
The Arrows, who committed no errors in the game, improve to 3-1 overall and 2-0 in the Pheasant Conference. Also aiding their cause was eight stolen bases. They are coached by Hoffman-Kensington graduate Joey Andreasen.
Sitting in on the Minnesota Farmers Union agriculture discussion at Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood
Minnesota Farmers Union president Doug Peterson and some of his staff are on hand now at Lakeside Ballroom in Glenwood.
Tom Meium of Congressman Collin Peterson's office said the following:
Collin favors these parts of the health care reform bill: ends the pre-existing condition exclusion - children covered up to 26 - health insurance companies can no longer drop you if you get a serious illness
Collin heard mostly from farmers, independent business owners who pay for their own insurance - they expressed grave concerns about rates going up. It was not addressed in the bill, even supporters of the bill acknowledge that insurance rates will go up.
Inflation rates and uncontrolled expenses that have been going up for quite some time have not been addressed.
Eleven percent of the CD7 do not have health insurance. About 1/3 of those will be covered. That's disappointing to Collin. He was hoping more of the uninsured would be covered.
That plus the expenses out of consumers pockets not being addressed led Collin to vote No on the bill.
If you compare legislation to a football game, we're probably at about halftime.
The first half was developing a bill. The second half will be implementation of the bill.
Health and Human Services will bring this to reality over the next 4 to 5 years. "Rubber hits the road" - the legislative intent will be put into action.
Collin pledges his support to the work of the second half. He won't be a part of the political games and rhetoric about repealing the bill.
He supports several parts of the bill. He will work with his colleagues of both parties to address the cost issue and make it a workable program.
More will be posted on this meeting on Wednesday.
Tom Meium of Congressman Collin Peterson's office said the following:
Collin favors these parts of the health care reform bill: ends the pre-existing condition exclusion - children covered up to 26 - health insurance companies can no longer drop you if you get a serious illness
Collin heard mostly from farmers, independent business owners who pay for their own insurance - they expressed grave concerns about rates going up. It was not addressed in the bill, even supporters of the bill acknowledge that insurance rates will go up.
Inflation rates and uncontrolled expenses that have been going up for quite some time have not been addressed.
Eleven percent of the CD7 do not have health insurance. About 1/3 of those will be covered. That's disappointing to Collin. He was hoping more of the uninsured would be covered.
That plus the expenses out of consumers pockets not being addressed led Collin to vote No on the bill.
If you compare legislation to a football game, we're probably at about halftime.
The first half was developing a bill. The second half will be implementation of the bill.
Health and Human Services will bring this to reality over the next 4 to 5 years. "Rubber hits the road" - the legislative intent will be put into action.
Collin pledges his support to the work of the second half. He won't be a part of the political games and rhetoric about repealing the bill.
He supports several parts of the bill. He will work with his colleagues of both parties to address the cost issue and make it a workable program.
- Other issues were discussed throughout the forum, with a heavy emphasis on health care reform and agriculture concentration.
More will be posted on this meeting on Wednesday.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Third annual Quilt Show and Food Bonanza coming to Hoffman this Saturday - sponsored by Hoffman Economic Development Authority
Local quilting enthusiast Donna Emmert gave a short explanation of her quilt that will be raffled off at the April 17 HEDA Quilt Show and Food Bonanza. Raffle tickets are $2 or three for $5.
Spring meetings are underway for Minnesota Farmers Union - local site is in Glenwood tomorrow morning (Tuesday)
Minnesota Farmers Union President Doug Peterson invites members and friends to attend the annual MFU spring meetings April 12-15.
The dates, time and location of the meetings are as follows:
· Tuesday, April 13, 9:30 a.m.: Lakeside Café in Glenwood, 180 South Lakeshore Drive.
This is an opportunity for members, rural folk, or anyone, to come see how Minnesota Farmers Union works on the issues that impact our rural community and state and how MFU can make a difference for farmers and rural Minnesotans. People are encouraged to come discuss their concerns. MFU will be talking about where issues stand at the State Legislature, as well as on the federal level. Grab a friend or neighbor and come join MFU. Coffee is on us!
The dates, time and location of the meetings are as follows:
· Tuesday, April 13, 9:30 a.m.: Lakeside Café in Glenwood, 180 South Lakeshore Drive.
Notice from Torrey Westrom
I have joined the effort to keep the Fergus Falls State Dental Clinic from being shut down due to state budget cuts and we are making progress in finding a solution.
The Fergus Falls clinic is one of a handful of state-run dental operations which could be put out of service as the state works to erase its budget deficit. I understand we are in tight economic times, but I believe we have a responsibility to uphold care for these special patients and know there is a way to work this out.
These clinics handle patients with disabilities which require specialized care. Most private dentists are unable to accommodate these patients and, in the Fergus Falls case, this clinic is a rare provider of hospital services required by many of these patients.
We have received assurances that Sen. Linda Berglin is going to carry Senate legislation to keep the Fergus Falls dental clinic operating and I am ready to contribute on the House side. Meetings are continuing as we work toward a funding solution and more information will be available when the fiscal details are ironed out. Area state representatives Bud Nornes and Mark Murdock also are working to find a sustainable, responsible solution.
The Legislature is scheduled to adjourn the third week in May, so we have time to fix this problem. It is an urgent matter, however, because notices are going out to patients explaining this service will no longer be provided. I will keep you posted as things unfold in St. Paul.
Sincerely,
State Rep. Torrey Westrom
The Fergus Falls clinic is one of a handful of state-run dental operations which could be put out of service as the state works to erase its budget deficit. I understand we are in tight economic times, but I believe we have a responsibility to uphold care for these special patients and know there is a way to work this out.
These clinics handle patients with disabilities which require specialized care. Most private dentists are unable to accommodate these patients and, in the Fergus Falls case, this clinic is a rare provider of hospital services required by many of these patients.
We have received assurances that Sen. Linda Berglin is going to carry Senate legislation to keep the Fergus Falls dental clinic operating and I am ready to contribute on the House side. Meetings are continuing as we work toward a funding solution and more information will be available when the fiscal details are ironed out. Area state representatives Bud Nornes and Mark Murdock also are working to find a sustainable, responsible solution.
The Legislature is scheduled to adjourn the third week in May, so we have time to fix this problem. It is an urgent matter, however, because notices are going out to patients explaining this service will no longer be provided. I will keep you posted as things unfold in St. Paul.
Sincerely,
State Rep. Torrey Westrom
Saturday, April 10, 2010
A little drama breaks out at the 7th C.D. convention, but Collin Peterson is endorsed for another bid at the House of Representatives
Though it got heated a couple of times, Collin won the endorsement by unanimous acclamation of the 7th congressional district DFL delegates on Saturday afternoon.
A move to vote down the unanimous consent acclamation failed by an 87.5 to 29 margin among the 116 delegate votes.
Senator Amy Klobuchar gives her kudos to Congressman Collin Peterson.
Up in Moorhead at the 7th congressional district Republican convention, delegates voted on Saturday to endorse Willmar corporate agriculture executive Lee Byberg to run against Collin Peterson. He crossed the necessary 60% threshold on the first ballot cast, receiving 78% of the delegates' votes.
Byberg has said that one of the main focuses of his campaign will be farm issues, as he tries to unseat the popular incumbent Peterson.
Hey Lee, Good luck with that.
Here's a story from the Fargo Forum on his congressional race:
http://www.inforum.com/event/article/id/275112/
Here is a link to Lee's political website: http://www.bybergforcongress.org
Upon further investigation, I found one section of his website (at his blog) where he talks specifically about agriculture:
http://bybergforcongress.blogspot.com/search/label/agriculture
Interestingly, I would guess that Collin Peterson would not disagree with much of what is said in that blog post that I just mentioned.
Heading to 7th Congressional District DFL convention in Fergus Falls
Congressman Collin Peterson will be re-endorsed for another run at the 7th Congressional District seat for the U.S. House of Representatives.
I'll be blogging from the convention floor later this afternoon.
It will be interesting to see how out-of-control the liberal wing of the 7th district delegates becomes.
I'll be blogging from the convention floor later this afternoon.
It will be interesting to see how out-of-control the liberal wing of the 7th district delegates becomes.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
First State Bank of Kensington hosts Spring Women's Event tonight - event brings a large turnout
A crowd approaching 70 attended the Spring Women's Event at the Kensington Community Center, hosted by First State Bank of Kensington.
A photo gallery has been started at the Herman-Hoffman Tribune Facebook page.
More on the event will follow in the April 15 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
A video clip of the WCA singers performing at the spring women's event in Kensington.
The WCA singers perform the National Anthem.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Hoffman City Council wrestles with the tough issue of how to pay for a water tower logo, ultimately forgoes logo and goes with basic design
At tonight's Hoffman City Council meeting, the potential loss of up to $73,000 in state aid funding over the next two years weighed heavily on the minds of council members as they decided against adding a logo to the new water tower. The actual cost of adding one logo would be approximately $3,750. A second logo would add $2500.
A few random facts: For 2010, the city residents of Hoffman will pay a total of $105,000 in property taxes to the city budget. Local Government Aid totaled about $139,000. The state aid figure may drop to as low as $66,000 for 2012.
Here's a video clip that was taken at the beginning of the water tower logo discussion.
More will follow on this in the April 8 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
A few random facts: For 2010, the city residents of Hoffman will pay a total of $105,000 in property taxes to the city budget. Local Government Aid totaled about $139,000. The state aid figure may drop to as low as $66,000 for 2012.
Here's a video clip that was taken at the beginning of the water tower logo discussion.
More will follow on this in the April 8 issue of the Herman-Hoffman Tribune.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Hoffman Fire Department Fish Fry has an excellent turnout - numbering over 600
You can view a photo album with scenes from the Hoffman Fire Department Fish Fry by clicking here: http://freescout.dotphoto.com/CPViewAlbum.asp?AID=6126089
For Facebook users, photos and video from the fish fry have been added to the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's Facebook Fan page.
Welcome home, Charlie Company!
You can view a photo album with scenes from the Homecoming ceremony at the University of Minnesota-Morris P.E. Center by clicking here:
http://freescout.dotphoto.com/CPViewAlbum.asp?AID=6126031
Here's a couple video clips...
Be sure to bookmark this, the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's community calendar page
The link for the Herman-Hoffman Tribune's internet community calendar page is: http://www.hermanhoffmantribune.com/?cat=19
There you can view all the events which are being promoted in the Community Calendar of the Tribune.
Also embedded in that webpage are random advertisements promoting special functions, such as the upcoming First State Bank-Kensington's Spring Women's Event, on April 8.
Check it out at http://www.hermanhoffmantribune.com/?cat=19
Another important addition to the Tribune's website is a comment section after all stories posted.
There you can view all the events which are being promoted in the Community Calendar of the Tribune.
Also embedded in that webpage are random advertisements promoting special functions, such as the upcoming First State Bank-Kensington's Spring Women's Event, on April 8.
Check it out at http://www.hermanhoffmantribune.com/?cat=19
Another important addition to the Tribune's website is a comment section after all stories posted.
Don't forget to add the Herman-Hoffman Tribune to your Facebook page. The Tribune's fan page can be found by searching for "Herman-Hoffman Tribune"...41 fans and climbing!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Don't forget - Hoffman Fire Department Fish Fry is on Saturday night
The Hoffman Fire Department Fish Fry will be held from 4:30 to 7:30pm on Saturday night at the Hoffman Community Center.
Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children (7 and under).
Also, mark your calendars for the Herman Odd Fellows Smelt Fry, to be held on April 16 & 17, starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall in Herman.
Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children (7 and under).
Also, mark your calendars for the Herman Odd Fellows Smelt Fry, to be held on April 16 & 17, starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall in Herman.
Don't forget to add the Herman-Hoffman Tribune to your Facebook page. The Tribune's fan page can be found by searching for "Herman-Hoffman Tribune"...41 fans and climbing!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Believe It or Not: Minnesota Passes Pro-Growth Tax Cuts
Americans for Tax Reform applauds bi-partisan vote
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans for Tax Reform applauds Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty and the Minnesota Legislature for enacting a package of pro-job growth tax cuts. The legislature passed the bill (HF 2695) on Monday and Governor Pawlenty signed it into law today in a ceremony at the Minnesota State Capitol.
In a Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) controlled legislature, these tax cuts passed with strong bipartisan support -- 112-20 in the House and 58-3 in the Senate. The overwhelming support for these tax credits proves that even the bluest of states can embrace pro-taxpayer economic policies during the current economic downturn. Many of the provisions were proposed by Governor Pawlenty during his State of the State Address in February. During final negotiations on the bill this week, Governor Pawlenty insisted that the package had to be a net tax cut in order to gain his signature.
“The Minnesota Legislature came to an overwhelming bipartisan consensus this week,” said Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform, “that the road to economic recovery is paved with tax reform. I applaud the Minnesota legislature and Gov. Pawlenty for providing incentives that will create jobs and put Minnesotans back to work.”
With an overwhelming majority, the Minnesota House and Senate voted for the bill, which includes a Small Business Investment Refundable Tax Credit (commonly known as an “angel investment tax credit”), an enhanced research & development tax credit, the Historic Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit/Grant, and tax incentives to renovate a Ford plant in St. Paul. These tax reductions, credits and incentives add up to approximately $31 million in the current budget period and approximately $67 million in the next two-year budget.
“Minnesotans have been waiting for their government to do find real solutions to their economic woes. Now this traditionally liberal state is embracing real pro-growth policies to pull itself out of a recession,” added Norquist. “The next step is to embrace some of Gov. Pawlenty’s other reform proposals: a limit on the growth of state spending and a reduction in the corporate income tax. Parlaying this week’s momentum into serious tax reform will position Minnesota to lead the way in showing other states how to spur economic development through tax cuts and restraining government.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Americans for Tax Reform applauds Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty and the Minnesota Legislature for enacting a package of pro-job growth tax cuts. The legislature passed the bill (HF 2695) on Monday and Governor Pawlenty signed it into law today in a ceremony at the Minnesota State Capitol.
In a Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) controlled legislature, these tax cuts passed with strong bipartisan support -- 112-20 in the House and 58-3 in the Senate. The overwhelming support for these tax credits proves that even the bluest of states can embrace pro-taxpayer economic policies during the current economic downturn. Many of the provisions were proposed by Governor Pawlenty during his State of the State Address in February. During final negotiations on the bill this week, Governor Pawlenty insisted that the package had to be a net tax cut in order to gain his signature.
“The Minnesota Legislature came to an overwhelming bipartisan consensus this week,” said Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform, “that the road to economic recovery is paved with tax reform. I applaud the Minnesota legislature and Gov. Pawlenty for providing incentives that will create jobs and put Minnesotans back to work.”
With an overwhelming majority, the Minnesota House and Senate voted for the bill, which includes a Small Business Investment Refundable Tax Credit (commonly known as an “angel investment tax credit”), an enhanced research & development tax credit, the Historic Structure Rehabilitation Tax Credit/Grant, and tax incentives to renovate a Ford plant in St. Paul. These tax reductions, credits and incentives add up to approximately $31 million in the current budget period and approximately $67 million in the next two-year budget.
“Minnesotans have been waiting for their government to do find real solutions to their economic woes. Now this traditionally liberal state is embracing real pro-growth policies to pull itself out of a recession,” added Norquist. “The next step is to embrace some of Gov. Pawlenty’s other reform proposals: a limit on the growth of state spending and a reduction in the corporate income tax. Parlaying this week’s momentum into serious tax reform will position Minnesota to lead the way in showing other states how to spur economic development through tax cuts and restraining government.”
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