Local resident works to promote substance use prevention for area youth through data-based strategies
When Sarah Vonderharr, of Montevideo, was in grad school, she was introduced to some strategies to promote nurturing environments in the classroom. It was those teachings that inspired her to apply the lessons to her work now in substance use prevention as a Prevention Specialist for PACT for Families in Yellow Medicine County. The organization works on the prevention of substance use in youth within the counties of Renville, Kandiyohi, and Yellow Medicine County under a Partnership for Success Grant.
COURT NEWS
Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office Ortiz, Alexandra, Blaine; Offense date 3/19/21 Driving After Suspension (Misdemeanor); Plea 3/26/22 Guilty; Disposition 3/26/22 Convicted; Court Decision 3/26/22 Payable without appearance; $200 Fine. Klinghagen, Craig Allen, Clara City; Offense date 2/19/20 Felon in Possession of Firearm (Felony); Plea 8/10/20 Guilty; Disposition 10/20/20 Stay of adjudication; Amended Court Decision 11/4/21 Continued; $500 Fine.
Superintendent’s CORNER
When it comes to action and change, people are generally in one of two corners; 1. Things are moving too slow or 2. Things are moving too fast. Why is that? I don’t have the answer to that question, however I would offer up that sometimes both are right and sometimes both are wrong. Moving too fast without a plan can be reckless and create bigger issues than what the change was intended to fix. On the other hand, moving too slowly simply to move slowly can contribute to complacency and “that’s the way it’s always been” thinking. At Montevideo Public Schools we don’t want to fall into either of these categories, therefore we have and continue to examine ourselves and our practices in order to determine if what we are doing are getting the right results in the areas most important for the education of our students and to meet the expectations of our community.
New to Medicare Virtual Class offered
Learning what to do when you become eligible for Medicare can seem overwhelming. This class is for people who will be new to Medicare and would like to learn about Medicare Parts A, B, C and D. Topics will include a comprehensive introduction to Medicare including what Medicare covers, supplemental insurance and Part D prescription coverage. During the class you will learn the Medicare enrollment details, how to get the most from your benefits and how to research your Medicare plan options using the Medicare.gov site.
Before starting an outdoor home improvement project, call 811 before you dig
In observance of National Safe Digging Month in April, Great Plains Natural Gas announced results from a recent national survey revealing that 49% of homeowners who plan to dig this year will put themselves and their communities at risk by digging without contacting 811 beforehand to learn the approximate location of underground utilities. Additionally, 58% of homeowners reported experiencing a utility service interruption in the last 12 months, a direct result of damaging an underground utility line.
Amy Brustuen joins Southwest Initiative Foundation as new youth and family specialist
Amy Brustuen of Grove City has joined Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) staff to fill the new role of youth and family specialist. Brustuen will be a resource to build and strengthen southwest Minnesota’s youth and families by creating community connections and directing resources to opportunities that impact critical needs for the education and well-being of children birth-to-18 and families across the region. She started her role March 9. Brustuen has spent two decades in human services as a social worker and case manager for Meeker County. She holds a master’s degree in human services and forensic behavioral health from Concordia University-St. Paul.
Chippewa County Historical Society receives Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage small grant
The Minnesota Historical Society is pleased to announce the newest recipients of 42 Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small Grants ($10,000 and less), totaling $355,452 in 23 counties. Small grants are awarded quarterly to help nonprofits, educational organizations, government units and federally recognized tribes to preserve and share Minnesota history.
Senior LinkAge Line virtual presentation
The Senior LinkAge Line is a resource that provides expert advice on Medicare, prescription drug expense assistance, forms assistance, community-based resources, finding resources in the community, caregiver planning and support and more. This presentation will help individuals learn about the Senior LinkAge Line and how it supports older adults and their families with decision making.
55+ Driver Discount Program offered
The Minnesota Highway Safety Center will be offering 55+ Driver Discount Courses on the following days: 4 Hour Refresher Courses: Course # 50134 May 26th, 2022 1 pm to 5 pm Montevideo Community Center 550 S 1st S Montevideo, MN Courses are also available online at www. driverdiscountprogram.com This class will save participants up to 10 percent on their auto insurance.
Comments sought on proposed transportation projects in area
The Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission will hold a virtual open house public meeting on Wednesday, March 30, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. via Zoom at https:// us02web.zoom.us/j/87324382910. Public comment is requested on the draft Area Transportation Partnership Improvement Program (ATIP) for 2023-2026 regarding projects occurring in Big Stone, Swift, Chippewa, Lac qui Parle and Yellow Medicine Counties. This meeting will include a formal presentation by MnDOT staff on transportation projects at 2 p.m.