Regions combine for 4th annual convention May 14

MnSF-Buffalo Ridge Partners will hold their Annual Convention May 14 at Prairie’s Edge Casino in Granite Falls. All members are encouraged to attend this important event. We will hear information on upcoming changes to MnSF and discuss the possibilities of a state versus regional status. We will also caucus on issues and resolutions including incentives to physicians to practice in rural areas.

The following is our tentative agenda:
9 a.m. - Registration, coffee and rolls
9:30  a.m. - Opening ceremonies
10 a.m. - MnSF future presentation
11 a.m. - Regional business meetings
12 noon - Luncheon
12:30 p.m. - Speaker: Home and community-based care
1:30  p.m. - Issues/resolution caucusing
2:30  p.m. - Annual raffle drawing
3:30  p.m. - Adjourn

Cost for the entire day is $15 and is all inclusive. Complete the following registration form and send it to: MnSF, PO Box 589, Willmar, MN 56201-0589 with your $15 fee.

This is your Federation and the convention is the time to speak your mind on regional business and issues. We can’t do it without you!
Sue Johnson, director

North Star affirms support for Federation transition at regional convention

MnSF-North Star Region met for its annual convention at Park Inn in Hibbing on Friday the 13th of April. Twenty affiliated senior clubs from throughout the region, representing 115 votes, were present. Individual members brought the total vote count to 185. 

Tom Wagner (International Falls), regional vice president, was elected regional president replacing Lois Williams, our state president, who also held the regional position. Dolly Strombel (Eveleth), was elected secretary, replacing Minerva Balke who had held the position of regional secretary for more than ten years. Minerva has also held the position of state treasurer. D. Marvin Hill (Virginia) was appointed vice president to serve the unexpired term of vice president. Roses and certificates of appreciation were presented to both Williams and Balke. Representatives of the region’s eight areas were also selected to the regional board of directors.

In other action, the region overwhelmingly affirmed support for the transition plan for the Federation and directed its representatives to continue working toward finalizing the plan. Dennis Gerhardstein (MnSF state staff) and Barbara Kaufman (state financial secretary) presented the plan to the audience and answered several questions about the plan and its implementation..

Federal, state and local issues and resolutions were voted on and are being forwarded for statewide consideration. Resolutions included: English as the official language; federal tax relief for seniors; property tax limitation based on income, and; heating fuel delivery truck exemption from spring load limits. 

Keynote speaker was Leo Wilenius of Lake Power Electric. He addressed energy conservation and alternative sourcing of energy.
Dexter Pehle