Truancy Rates in Pine County
Pine County and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe are coming together to fight truancy.
American Indian students on average in Pine County have significantly higher absence rates than their classmates.
Pine County Attorney Reese Frederickson said the two groups have come up with a way to potentially fix the situation, in the form of a community coach.
The community coach would act as a liaison between Pine County and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe.
Through their efforts, The County and band hope to lower truancy rates.
Minnesota State Budget Talks Stalled
As the MN State Legislature is entering a standstill, Pine City Rep. Jason Rarick is fighting for progress.
A 1.15 billion dollar tax relief plan has been presented to Governor Mark Dayton, a proposal that Rarick has advocated and voted for.
However, Dayton has vowed to veto any and every budget proposal that comes across his desk.
The bill would provide tax relief for the middle class, students, and the elderly, amongst others.
Opioid and Heroin Community Event
A community event surrounding opioids and heroin is coming to Grand Casino in Hinckley.
The forum is a partnership between the Pine County Sheriff’s Office, Pine County Public Health, Firstlight Health System, and the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy.
The night will begin with a free dinner, followed by a presentation and Q&A session.
Childcare is available for the evening.
The event is tomorrow, May 16th at 5 pm at Grand Casino Hinckley.
Family Pathways Benefit
Family Pathways based out of Pine City is hosting a benefit this week.
Family Pathways serves residents in the six county surrounding region, providing them with food, domestic abuse programs, and youth centers.
Live music and catering will be present, at the event being held at the Bloom Lake Park in Shafer on May 18th at 5:30.