In a year defined by an economic recession and an increasingly unpopular war, residents of Pine County lived to tell the story of 2008.

Highlights of the year include a historic presidential election, the 150th birthday of Minnesota, a high honor awarded to long-time Pine City Mayor Jane Robbins, a campaign for a regional arts center and significant success for both the sports and the arts at Pine City schools.

Some unfinished business from 2008 are an unsolved arson spree in northern Pine County in April and a purchasing decision to be made by Pine City on the former Pine County courthouse.

With hope for an economic turn around and exciting endeavors on the horizon, residents look forward to 2009.

January

Curt Rossow of Willow River was appointed Fourth District Pine County Commissioner at the Jan. 8 board meeting. The position was vacant after Greg Bennett resigned from the board to pursue the job of county land commissioner.

The city of Brook Park was awarded $491,000 in federal grants for a new 50,000-gallon water tower, additions to a well house, a softener with brine tank, piping modifications and a treatment plant. The city hoped to have the project completed by June.

Sam Klemet was hired as the news and sports director for Red Rock Radio.

The biggest fish of the day at the annual Fish Derby on Pokegama Lake was caught by Dave Jawosoki. He caught a 2.5 pound northern.

A dinner for Carol Samuelson honored her eight years of service on the Pine City School Board.

Greg Bennett was hired as part-time land commissioner for the county at a wage of $29.90 and 24 hours per week of work.

Pat Hass retired from her job as Pine County Health and Human Services director, and Linda Cassman took over as the new director.

Andrew Lutz became the seventh Dragon to score over 1,000 points in his PCHS basketball career.

St. Mary’s School celebrated Catholic Schools Week by inviting the public to an open house.

Jaclynn Cavallin won a trip for two to Las Vegas for a Hannah Montana concert. She took her son, Austin, along and the pair got to meet Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus.