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PINE RIVER - Central Cass County residents will soon have a new resource for higher education. The Cass County Economic Development Corporation recently received a grant from TDF Foundation of Washington, DC, to operate a computer lab at the new CLC Community Outreach Site in partnership with Central Lakes College (CLC) and the Pine River Backus School District. The CLC Community Outreach Site will be located at the Pine River Backus former ALC/District Office at 401 Murray Avenue Pine River. The grant will provide five new computers, one desk top printer, five MS Office licenses, software and a part time coordinator to work at the site and assist students.

"The TDF Foundation is honored to be a partner in the Pine River Project. It is our mission to bring broadband connectivity, education resources and innovation to the community," according to Linda Nickell, Director.

Higher education will equip the workforce for future opportunities and prepare the community for new business development, which is the mission of the Cass County Economic Development Corporation. "Growing the educational level will make central Cass County more attractive to new businesses," stated Gail Leverson of the Cass County EDC.[[In-content Ad]]

"We at CLC look forward to this being a great draw for students who want to improve their education using our on-line courses," Larry Lundblad, CLC's President stated. This grant will allow residents to take on-line course and increase their education in a convenient location.

The Outreach Site computer center will be open Monday - Thursday from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., for twelve months starting in mid August. There will be no charge for residents to use the site to improve their computer skills or take computer workshops. On-line courses from CLC are tuition based, although the coordinators assistance is free.

According to Cathy Bettino, PRB Superintendent, "The District is excited about the opportunity to further serve our community and our students. The CLC outreach site opens new doors and possibilities for everyone ... not only Pine River-Backus residents but also people who live in our surrounding communities. Education is the key!"

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