Local news briefs

The Evergreen Cemetery Association in Brainerd recently elected new member John Van Essen at its recent annual meeting. The association also re-elected four board members and named four officers for the coming year.

John Boeder and Duane Blanck remain as president and vice president. Don Crust was re-elected secretary and Robert Tusler re-elected treasurer. Conrad Bye, John Krueger, Laurie Everhart-Hall and Joey Halvorson continue their terms on the board directors.

The financial condition of the association improved again in 2008, according to the Finance Committee. Contributions from many of the 20,000 lot owners, relatives and friends of the association have helped offset the poor investment returns experienced by the economic downturn. The association of Evergreen and Memorial Gardens cemeteries relies on interest and dividends from its $495,000 Perpetual Care Fund to manage and operate the nearly 120 acres of grounds. The nonprofit Cemetery Association receives no county or city funding.

"It's been a very good year," says Boeder. "We've made tremendous progress in spite of the need to tighten the budget due to low interest rates. There have been significant improvements in equipment and building maintenance this past year. Our board is comprised of very talented members representing various areas of experience and interest. We look forward to another good year here at Evergreen and Memorial Gardens."

2010 Day of the Young Child fundraiser planned

The Crow Wing County Licensed Family Child Care Association will have a brat sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18 at Von Hanson's Meats in Baxter. All proceeds go to Day of the young Child 2010.