BSUCalendar December 4, 5, 6, 11 & 12, 1998
Madrigal Dinners, Beaux Arts Ballroom on BSU campus January 23, 1999
Beaver Pride Winter Golf Classic, On frozen Lake Bemidji January 30, 1999
BSU Foundation “Snow Ball,” 6 p.m. Reception, 7 p.m. Dinner, Beaux Arts Ballroom on BSU campus March 7, 1999
Opera Night, Minneapolis, Metropolitan March 14-15, 1999
“BSU Winter Rendezvous” 1999, Laughlin, Nevada
Vol. 14, No. 2, Winter 1998-99
A Publication for Alumni & Friends of Bemidji State University
BSUHorizons
Charges Up Alumnus Charges Airline Industry
March 14, 1999
Opera Night Bemidji, Northern Inn May 7-17, 14-24, 16-26, 21-31, May 23-June 2, 1999
Alumni Travel, Scandinavian Panorama, For more info call Global Holidays at 1-800-842-9023
Bemidji State University
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Bemidji State University Alumni Association 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, #DPH Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 218-755-3989 1-877-BSU-ALUM alumni@vax1.bemidji.msus.edu http://info.bemidji.msus.edu/alumni
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Dave Ekstrom always ago, but already are makknew he would make ing turbulence in the his mark in the aviation aviation industry. world ... it was what he While attending the had dreamed of since he Oshkosh Fly-In to prowas a young boy. mote their product, the However, winning two men had hoped they the Stan Dzik Memorial could garner some attenAward for the most intion by demonstrating the novative design at the StartStick’s usefulness in world famous Oshkosh, starting small-engine WI, Fly-In last July still aircraft. makes him gasp. However, while they Ekstrom and a partner were starting a plane, a won the award for depilot of a World War II veloping the StartStick, warbird asked them if it the first-ever cordless, would start his plane. external starting system Ekstrom said they had for airplanes. It’s a prodnever tested the maxiuct that some of mum potential of the aviation’s elite consider StartStick, so they gave revolutionary. it a shot. Simply explained, the It worked — the device StartStick is a high-powcranked over the warbird Dave Ekstrom ered battery that may be and proceeded to start used to bypass the regumany other vintage lar batter to start a mabombers and large planes his was just an idea off the tops of throughout the week of chine. In other terms, the our heads. We had this little battery, the Oshkosh airshow. Since then, the StartStick StartStick may be combut we thought, ‘What can we do with has been used to start pared to jump-starting an automobile without it?’ Now the potential uses of the battery vehicles ranging from a snowmobile to semithe use of a second veare endless. There are thousands of uses trucks. hicle. The light-weight — only two pounds — for light-weight, high powered things.” Ekstrom says his world battery does the same Dave Ekstrom has been a whirlwind since Oshkosh. People in job that the second auWhat has the industry so ex- the aviation industry have been tomobile does, provide enough energy to crank over the other car, cited is that the 13-inch-long de- calling him from around the vice potentially does the same job world. Someone from virtually or in this case, plane. Ekstrom, who has worked with as a trailer-sized cart used to every country has checked in to invest in the product or become experimental aircraft since gradu- jump-start airplanes. Built from a newly patented ating from BSU in 1988 with a degree in industrial technology, thin metal film battery, developed says the StartStick might not by the corporation Bolder with completely replace what is help from NASA, the StartStick known as the start cart in the avia- can provide huge surges of curtion world, but it will have its rent up to 1,000 amps. Ekstrom and his partner Jim unique uses. Dunn, co-executive director of NASA’s Center for Technology Commercialization, developed the product only a few months
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a dealer for the company. The StartStick is currently in production with shipments of orders expected in early December. “This was just an idea off the tops of our heads,” said Ekstrom, who is from Bemidji. “We had this little battery, but we thought, ‘What can we do with it?’ Now the potential uses of the battery are endless. There are thousands of uses for light-weight, high powered things.” For the time being, the technology used to develop the StartStick will not be used to actually power motor vehicles. There hasn’t been enough testing to trust the battery for in-flight use or for use in such things as medical equipment. Ekstrom said his company already has several more products in mind, including a self-contained jump-starting apparatus for automobiles that should be available sometime in January. For people living in Minnesota or any northern climate, the potential safety considerations are evident. “Think about being able to jump-start your car in the dead of winter without another car,” he commented. It’s enough to get anyone charged up about the idea. This story is an updated version of an article that originally appeared in the August 30 Bemidji Pioneer. The story and photographs were produced by reporter Devlyn Brooks, a 1997 BSU mass communication graduate.
Ekstrom demonstrates the StartStick on an airplane.
Horizons Page 2
Forest Dynamics Grant to Support Study of Forest Dynamics Mark Fulton
The National Science Foundation has awarded a $53,018 grant to Bemidji State to support a project that will apply a new simulation model to assist ecologists in understanding forest dynamics. The grant proposal was written by Dr. Mark Fulton of the BSU Biology Department and Dr. Paul Harcombe, professor of ecology and evolutionary bin the study of forest dynamics, ology at Rice Univerin Houston, TX. scientists track the fate and growth sity“Scientists use of individual trees to determine simulation models an attempt to see how they react with each other and in how elements of a with such environmental factors forest interact and change,” said as soil, climate and moisture.” create Fulton. “A relatively Dr. Mark Fulton new modeling instrument, known as SORTIE, is highly regarded by forest ecologists despite limited validation.
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“In the study of forest dynamics, scientists track the fate and growth of individual trees to determine how they react with each other and with such environmental factors as soil, climate and moisture.” The grant will support the application and analysis of the SORTIE model to forested lands in eastern Texas where Harcombe has accumulated a unique longterm data set of forest dynamics. SORTIE models the forest in terms of the establishment, growth and death of individual trees. By mapping individual trees and keeping track of their growth, it allows the user to integrate more factors into specific models and to introduce disturbances, such as tornadoes, into the scenario. The previously recorded data on the forested lands will be used to establish the parameters for SORTIE modeling and to validate it as a simulation device. Over the 30 months of the grant, Fulton and Harcombe will combine field studies with the analysis of previous information and new simulations. Fulton also indicated that an important focus of the project will be to assess the theory that forest dynamics are driven primarily by the ability of trees to cast shade and tolerate the shade of other trees. SORTIE simulates the forest entirely in terms of these interactions. Should the systems work, SORTIE could prove to be a valu-
able scientific tool as well as a planning instrument for predictive modeling. “Scientists have to see how predictable forest dynamics are,” added Fulton. “If one is dealing with a small patch of forest, the change will occur partly by random chance and partly by predictable factors.
Hanson (’91) of Houston, TX, is a project engineer for Harmony Corporation. He lives with his wife and two daughters … John Loney (’94) was hired this year to teach special education, EBD and fourth- and sixthgrade math at Akeley Elementary Schools. He also coaches football for grades 4-6 … Jolene Davidson (’92) is teaching life science and chemistry this year for the Howard LakeWa v e r l y -W i n s t e d School District. She lives in Annandale with John Loney her husband, Devin (’92) … Mark Slinden (’97) was recently hired to teach third grade at Kingsland Elementary School. He will also serve as the seventh grade football coach. Last year Slinden worked for the New LondonSpicer schools in a supervised learning program … Jeff Sherman (’91) is teaching courses in sociology, criminal justice, sociocultural diversity and criminology this year at Rainy River Community College … Geoffrey Swanson (’97) of Rogers is teaching third grade in Cokato … Nancy Benson (’96) has been hired to teach special education at Plummer .. Brian Remick (’98) of Red Lake Falls is teaching second grade at J.A. Hughes Elementary School … Tony Mariotti (’98) is teaching sixth grade at Grygla where he also serves as junior varsity football coach for the GoodridgeGrygla Blue Devils … Randy Huie (’95) of Red Lake
Falls has been hired to teach social studies in grades 7-12 in the Oklee Schools. He will also serve as the assistant varsity boys’ basketball coach, “B” team coach and a volunteer football coach … Brook Berg (’94) is the new K-12 media specialist at Fosston. She is currently working toward her master’s degree in informational media and last year she taught in St. Paul and did her graduate work at St. Cloud University … Toni Balsley (’98) is teaching at Braham Elementary School this year. Classes include remedial skills with students in K-4 and reading and computer with fifth-graders. She will also coach the Braham track team … John Ingebritson (’96) is teaching first grade at Brown Elementary in the Pipestone-Jasper School District. He taught the past two years in Texas … Todd Johnson (’95) is teaching eighth grade social studies at the Danube Campus of BDRSH Schools. He and his wife, Kristen (’95), have two daughters … Marcia Santo (’97) is teaching second grade in District 110 and lives in Shorewood … Diane Murphy (’97) was recently hired as Roseau High School’s part-time Spanish teacher … Daryl Smith (’98) is teaching third grade at Rippleside School in the Aitkin School District …Brian Bissonette (’90) is a marketing representative for Paul Bunyan Rural Telephone in Bemidji where he lives with his wife, Nissa, and daughter, Madison, … Wendy Haavisto (’94) gave birth to twins, Victoria and Nicholas, on July 29. Haavisto works as a legislative assistant for the Minnesota House of Representatives Republican Caucus. She and the twins live with her husband, Kristoffer Ostenso, in Maplewood … Matt King (’96) and Tresa (Aiple)
“But there are large areas of the country that are covered by forests, and in most people’s experiences, they don’t change very fast. We’re moving into a time when climate variations or environmental influences could cause changes in ways people don’t expect.”
Alumni Relative Scholarships Available The Bemidji State Alumni Association continues to place the Alumni Relative Scholarship Program as its highest priority. Last year, through the generosity of the alumni of Bemidji State University, the Association was able to present $31,000 in scholarships “The BSU Alumni Relative Scholarship is very competitive,” stated Sue Kringen, director of alumni relations. “The net result is that the students receiving the awards are leaders scholastically and in their schools and communities. In addition to academic achievement, volunteerism and community service are important components of the Alumni Relative Scholarship.” To apply or qualify for an Alumni Relative Scholarship, the applicant must meet the following criteria: 1. a. Have applied for admission to BSU by March 1, 1999; or b. If a returning or transfer student, be registered for 1999 Summer Session or Fall of 1999 by May 1, 1999. 2. Be the daughter, son, spouse, mother, father, niece, nephew, brother, sister, or grandchild of an active member of the BSU Alumni Association. If an alumnus/a is not active, he/she may become so by making a $30 tax deductible contribution to the BSU University Fund by the scholarship application deadline. 3. Incoming freshmen must submit a completed application to the Alumni Office by March 1, 1999 (awards announced by April 1, 1999); returning and transfer students must apply by May 1, 1999 (awards announced by July 1, 1999). 4. Students must carry at least 12 credits per semester to be eligible. Applications for the Alumni Relative Scholarship will be automatically mailed to all active members of the Alumni Association during the month of December. Scholarship applications can also be printed off the BSU Alumni Website at: http://info.bemidji.msus.edu/alumni/ For more information regarding the Alumni Relative Scholarship program contact the Alumni Office, David Park House, Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 (phone toll free: 1-877-BSU-ALUM; local phone 218-755-3989; email: alumni@vax1. bemidji.msus.edu).
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing
ALL CITIES ARE LOCATED IN MINNESOTA UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
1990s Carie L. Stotesbery (’94), O.D., recently joined the staff of Thomas Smith, O.D., in Fergus Falls. Dr. Stotesbery has had three internships specializing in cataract surgery, refractive surgery and in pediatrics and behavioral optometry/vision therapy. She graduated with honors this year from Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, OR …Paul Hetland (’95) of Stillwater filed as a candidate for the District 56A seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives. He’s employed as a legislative assistant … Becky Huot (’98) was hired as a social worker at Lincoln HI School District. She will divide her time between the elementary school in Hendricks and the high school in Ivanhoe where she is also the assistant girls’ volleyball coach… Rob Nudell (’98) was named elementary principal for the Remer/Longville schools. Nudell comes to the district from Wyoming, MN, where he taught third and fourth grades for the past five years. He lives with his wife, Karen, and son, Parker … Joe Vieau (’87) is teaching math at Watertown-Mayer schools and will also be assistant baseball coach. He taught math the past 11 years in Dawson-Boyd School District … Tara Gurney (’95) is an English teacher and speech director at Fosston High School
…. Dominic Krump (’98) is teaching kindergarten at Cass Lake-Bena School District … Shannon Roy (’98) is teaching kindergarten at McGregor and is planning a June wedding … Britta Swenson (’98) was recently hired as a universal home visitor and family employment advocate with the Pillager Area Family Resource Center. She will provide parent education, child development resources and referral services to families with children ages newborn to three years. Swenson will also oversee a local advocacy project that will provide support to families making the transition off public assistance and into the work place … Richard Loehlein (’98) teaches fourth grade at Wabasha-Kellogg Elementary. Prior experience includes working three years at Evergreen House in Bemidji and student teaching at Solway Elementary. He and his wife, Jean, live at Sand Prairie … Margo Curb-Aitken (’90) recently joined the staff at Bagley High School as a business education teacher … Olin Anderson (’98) was recently hired to teach science at Bagley High School … Carol Bliss-Miller (’92) is the new social studies teacher at Bagley High School … Jennifer Sanford (’94) had a daughter, Kathryn, on March 27. She is executive director of the Bemidji United Way and lives in Bemidji with her husband Bill Sanford … John
Matt & Tresa King King (’97) were married on April 18 in Stillwater. Matt is employed in Edina with Minnesota Displays and Graphics as a graphics designer. Tresa is also employed in Edina with United HealthCare Corp. as a stock option assistant. They live in Lakeville … Alumni reporting new additions to their families included Robert Enger (’90) and his wife, Rebecca, of Bemidji, Sept. 12th birth of a daughter; Roger Stenson (’95) and his wife, Alyssa, of Bemidji, Sept. 16th birth of a daughter; Ann Fankhanel (’94) and her husband, Jim, Bemidji, July 31st birth of a daughter … and Daniel Larson (’97) and his wife, Jacqueline, of Bemidji, Sept. 10th birth of a son … Amy Stender (’90) and Gary Tobey, both of Bemidji, were married March 27 in Kissimmee, FL. Amy is employed as a radiologist at North Country Regional
Call for Outstanding Alumni Nominations Nominations are now being accepted for candidates to be considered for the Outstanding Alumni Award. The Outstanding Alumni Award is presented annually during Homecoming and is the highest honor presented by the Bemidji State University Alumni Association. The recipients of the award bring much recognition to their alma mater through distinguished and professional achievements. They are honored for exceptional service and contributions to Bemidji State University and to their community, state and nation. All nominees must have graduated no less that 10 years ago from Bemidji State University. Nominations will be accepted until February 1, 1999, and can be made by anyone except an immediate family member. Current BSU faculty and staff as well as members of the board of directors of the Alumni Association are not eligible for consideration. A nomination form can be obtained by contacting the Alumni Office, David Park House, Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 566012699 (phone toll free:1-877-BSUALUM; 218-755-3989; alumni@ vax1.bemidji.msus.edu). Bemidji State University
BSUHorizons Vol. 14, No. 2,Winter 1998-99 Produced by the News and Publications Office and the Alumni Office at Bemidji State University, HORIZONS is published quarterly and distributed without charge to BSU alumni, students, faculty, staff and other friends of the University. BSU is an equal opportunity educator and employer. Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al Nohner Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Berglund Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . John Swartz President . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jim Bensen Alumni Director . . . . . . . . . Sue Kringen Contributing Writer . . . . . . . . Jody Grau Editorial Assistance . . . . . Peggy Nohner Editorial Board: Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU president; Dr. David Tiffany, vice president for University advancement; Al Nohner, director of news services and publications; Sue Kringen, director of alumni relations.
Hospital and Gary is the owner of Class A Auto Body of Bemidji … Pam Marshall (’97) of Cedar Falls, IA, plans a June 19 wedding to Todd Ancelet, her high school sweetheart. She teaches math and other classes to grades 7-12 and coaches eighth grade volleyball and basketball as well as ninth grade basketball … Janelle Ann Homme (’97) and Norman Clair Larson, both of Bemidji, were married Sept. 26 … David A. P. Anderson (’93) filed as a candidate for Minnesota state treasurer, making his second bid for a state office. In 1994 he ran for state auditor, receiving 21.5 percent of the vote. He lives in Rosemount with his wife, Becki, and their five-yearold daughter … Kristin Hendrickson (’96) of Kingsford, MI, married Jon Mallett on Aug. 8 … Rosaline Hoffert (’95) was married Sept. 19 to Shawn Groven. She teaches high school in Thief River Falls and the couple lives in Highlanding … John Stigman (’93) teaches high school and junior high social studies at Osakis Schools. He is also an assistant girls’ basketball coach … Robert Ruggiero (’93) completed his master’s degree from West Virginia University. He is a senior health planner with the State of Delaware and is married to Gloria Ho … Shawn M. (Knox) Cavaness (’90) of Spring Creek, NV, has been teaching in the elementary grades at Elko, NV, for the past eight years. Her husband of five years, John, works for Barrick Golstrike Mines and the couple has a two-year-old daughter … Kirk L. Olson (’95) of Newcomb, NM, teaches physical education at Shiprock High School in Shiprock, NM. Coaching duties include head wrestling at Newcomb High and assistant baseball at Shiprock … Tom Riewer (’92) played on the team finishing second in
Horizons Page 3
Division I Journeys Ice Hockey Starts D-I The 1998-99 season is of historical significance for Bemidji State’s ice hockey programs. There won’t be any post-season berths or a trip to an NCAA National Championship. But for both programs, the year will mark the start of a journey. After winning 13 national championships at the small college level, Bemidji State announced last spring that it will move the men’s program to the
NCAA Division I level and would initiate a women’s program, also slated to go D-I. According to NCAA guidelines, the Beaver programs will be ineligible for championship play this season as they make the move to the top division. “The development of the women’s program is a logical extension of the University’s 50year-old hockey tradition as well as an opportunity for the school to be an active participant in one of the fastest growing sports in the country,” said Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU president. “Women’s ice hockey provides another venue for women in intercollegiate athletic competition at BSU. This will further move Bemidji State toThe first women’s ice hockey game was against Gustavus.
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onger term, our expectation is that these two Division I programs will become strong enough to generate income that can be used to strengthen other athletic programs. The fact that we will be competing against teams of national stature will certainly increase our visibility, which can only enhance our student recruiting.” Dr. Jim Bensen
the Security State Lumberjack Scramble in Bemidji recently …Pernille Ottosen (’90), M.D., recently joined the staff of the Deer River Clinic. She graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Medicine this fall with a specialty in family practice and a special focus on women’s issues … Jason Anderson (’97) recently joined the West Fargo Police Force … Jessica Kuryla (’94) recently received a doctor of dental surgery degree from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. She is presently associated with the Lor Ray Drive Dental Group of North Mankato … Kari Kavanagh (’94) has been hired as sales associate with KAWEKAWB-TV, Bemidji. She is responsible for soliciting underwriting support for public television from local businesses in northern Minnesota … Guy Hagen (’98) recently joined JPG Communications, Inc., Virginia, as a graphic artist. JPG Communications is a full-service advertising, Kari Kavanagh marketing and public relations agency … Dale Lhotka (’97) was hired recently by the Deer River School Board to teach instrumental music to grades 5-12 … James J. Saunders (’97) of Carol Stream, IL, is employed as a U.S. Customs inspector at O’Hare Airport, Chicago, IL … Kyle H. Pingrey (’95) is working as assistant news director for KTTR/KZNN in Rolla,
MO … Karson Otness (’94) is one of four City of Bemidji police officers recently awarded the Field Training Officer’s Medal for Meritorious Service. He was cited for volunteering to assist with the development and Jennifer Ulven implementation of the Field Training Program and for his ability to work long hours with added responsibility … Craig Peter Smith (’97) and Rita Jonette, both of Bemidji, were recently married in Bemidji. Smith is an insurance agent for Bankers Life and Casualty company and Rita is a senior at BSU, majoring in applied psychology … Jennifer Brandt (’95) filed as a candidate for the Ward 2 Red Wing City Council seat. She’s worked for the past two years as a teacher of social studies and special education at the Minnesota Correctional Facility … David Cowlishaw (’95) is police chief of Bertha and has worked in law enforcement for about seven years. He took his current position in March. He’s married to Pamela Morphet, and the couple has one daughter … Steve Ballard (’94) of Clearbrook has turned his air brushing hobby into a full-time business that’s quickly outgrowing his home … Brenda Speed (’97) and Steve Schaitberger (’96) were married June 20 in Brainerd, where the couple now lives … Nicholas Dean Walk (’96) of Bemidji and Gina Marie Marion were married in August … Robert Skinner (’90) and Ann Elliott were married May 28 in Bemidji. He is
ward its goal of responding to Title IX standards.” The men’s ice hockey team begins the transition with several Division I teams on the schedule. For next year, most of the schedule will be Division I. The impetus behind the decision to pursue Division I for the men was initially Goalie Adam Pavlatos led the Beavers to their first Division I a response to the wins against Air Force. decline of Division II hockey will be adding athletic scholarwith few options remaining if the ships, more extensive travel, and Beavers were to continue their related support costs. “Women’s ice hockey is also rich hockey tradition. “The move to D-I was not an going to need private support to easy decision, for the increased develop a winning team. As girl’s cost of moving up is significant,” high school hockey grows in the Bensen commented. “The chal- state and region, it will serve as a lenge was made greater since we base for building significant gate insisted that additional costs had receipts for the Beavers. “Longer term, our expectation is to be covered by private contributions or by revenue from gate that these two Division I programs receipts, advertising, and promo- will become strong enough to generate income that can be used to tional activities.” Alumni, community members strengthen other athletic programs. and fans came through for the The fact that we will be competfirst year, generating more than ing against teams of national stat$160,000 through ticket sales, ure will certainly increase our viscontributions, advertising rev- ibility, which can only enhance our enue, and private sources. student recruiting.” “This is a wonderful beginning, but more must be done,” Bensen added. “Next year Bemidji State
Christopher Gustafson
Lee Furuseth
manager for Northwestern Minnesota at Rural Cellular Corp. in Bemidji and she is manager of corporate communications for Rural Cellular Corp. in Alexandria … Wade Burgess (’91) of Newport is employed as a senior auditor for Ecolab in St. Paul and attends the University of Minnesota – Carlson School, working toward his MBA in strategic management … Kevin Schmid (’91) is a partner in Genesis III, a limited partnership consisting of three families, which has constructed two new hog barns between Heron Lake and Okabena in which to raise pigs on a contract basis. For the past five years he worked as a feed salesman for Prairie Land & Land O’Lakes Cooperative. Kevin and his wife, Dana, have two-year-old triplets … Jennifer Ulven (’97) joined the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School staff as a vocal music teacher this fall … Christopher Gustafson (’98) joined the Walker-HackensackAkeley teacher staff this fall. He works in Idaho as a smokejumper during the summer … Lee Furuseth (’95) has joined the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley staff as the elementary assistant principal … Lonne Fricke (’90) joined the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley
Lonne Fricke
Timothy Slough
School district this fall as an industrial technology instructor and school-to-work coordinator. He’s lived in the Bemidji area for 32 years … Timothy Slough (’92) was hired this fall as an elementary third grade instructor with the Walker-Hackensack-Akeley Schools. He’s married and has a four-year-old daughter … Debbie Cain (’94) is a seasoned international traveler. She has lived in Japan for four years and is preparing to spend a year in the Czech Republic, where she has accepted an appointment in a small city to teach English. And it all began in 1991 when Cain joined a BSU program that would send her, as a student, to Japan for three months. It would change not only the next seven years of her life, but her entire life and world view. Other notable places Cain has visited on her journeys include Bangkok, Thailand; Bombay, India; Geneva, Switzerland; and London, England … Jennifer Johnson (’91) is teaching K-12 music and band at Kelliher Schools … Linda Sycks (’92) and her husband, Mark (’86) , are living in Oak Grove … Denise Black (’92) was recently recognized as an exemplary science teacher (Continued on page 4)
Horizons Page 4 1998 Honorary Alumni Awards Presented During the 1998 Bemidji State University Alumni Association Honors Luncheon held during Homecoming, five individuals were presented with Honorary Alumni Awards in recognition of dedicated service to Bemidji State University. Dr. Paul Brandvik retired in 1998 and was named professor emeritus of music, recognizing 31 years of service to Bemidji State University as director of choral activities. He has conducted the Bemidji Choir in performances across the United States and in Austria, France, Switzerland, Belgium, Spain and in Israel. One of his greatest accomplishments was the creation of the BSU Madrigal Dinners, which he wrote and directed for 30 years. Mary Lou Brandvik retired in 1998 after a long, dedicated and highly successful teaching career in the Bemidji school district. A true friend of Bemidji State University, she was directly involved in the production of the Madrigal Dinners 30 years. She designed and created all the authentic Renaissance costumes and edited the scripts in preparation for performances. Dr. Ray Nelson retired in 1998 after providing 22 years of service to Bemidji State University. A professor emeritus of education, his service to BSU included organizing two Governor’s Conferences on Education; writing grants to conduct two Indian Education Conferences; serving as the first director of the Arrowhead University Center; developing a cooperative educational administration program with St. Thomas College and St. Cloud State University; and conceiving the BSU Teacher of the Year Hall of Fame. Frances E. Peterson retired in 1990 after serving Bemidji State University for 25 years, eight as director of payroll and 17 as executive secretary to the president of BSU. At the top of her many special interests is Bemidji State University. She is a regular attendee at many BSU concerts and special events. Rick Maynard, retired in 1991 from Bemidji State University and was named director emeritus of administrative services. He is founder of the Rick Maynard Scholarship, awarded annually to members of the Theta Tau Epsilon Fraternity, which he served as advisor for many years.
Sports Fall SportsWrap-Up As a new feature, HORIZONS will include highlights from the Beaver athletic seasons. Complete schedules and up-to-date results for BSU athletics are available on the Internet (http:// info.bemidji.msus.edu/sports/). The Beavers now compete on the NCAA-Division II and are members of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference in all sports except ice hockey. ating. Coach Jeff Tesch was named coach of the year, and four Beavers were named AllNSIC: Meyer, Jason Leden (freshman, Stevens Point), Hanson, Ben McAninch (senior, New Ulm).
Volleyball (18-10 overall, 8-4 NSIC)
Chris Meyer
Football (6-4 overall, 4-2 NSIC) At 6-4, the Beavers logged their best season since 1986 and their best home record since 1985 as they went 4-0 in Chet Anderson Stadium. Chris Meyer (junior,East Grand Forks) set a new single-season rushing record with 1,465 yards and was ranked in the top 10 rushing for NCAA-II. He needs just 12 yards next year to break the BSU career rushing record. On defense, Jay Hanson (junior, Sartell) set a new single season sack record with 16.5. Quarterback Ben Morie (junior, Rohnert Park, CA) was the team leader for total offense with 1,750 passing yards and 14 passing TDs. Next year looks bright for the Beavers as well with only one starter on offense and three on defense gradu-
The Beaver volleyball team finished in sole possession of second-place in the NSIC and accomplished a feat no other league squad had done in nearly three years — beat UMD. The Beavers snapped a Michelle Dinius Bulldog win skein that stretch over 34 matches early in the fall to Women’s Soccer set the tone for the season. During (1-17 overall, 0-7 NSIC) the course of the year, setter Michele Women’s soccer started out the seaDinius (junior, Monticello), moved son by notching its first win, a 2-1 into third on the all-time assist charts edging of St. Scholastica. But the seafor BSU. Peggy Hammel (junior, son went south for the Beavers after Stewartville) led the team with that game as they lost 17 straight, fin344 kills. Both were named to ishing 1-17 overall and 0-7 for the the All-NSIC unit, Dinius for the NSIC. Deidre Pantzke, (junior, Louis second time. Park) garnered All-Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference honors on Golf defense for the 1998 season. The BSU golf team capped the fall season by winning its second straight Women’s Cross Country Running NSIC Championship. The Beavers The BSU women runners closed carded a 614 on their home course out their season with a fifth-place finto secure the win with Tom Jenkins ish at the conference meet where (sophomore, Bemidji) earning med- Kandi Brick (senior, Brainerd) was a alist honors. The title marked the repeat all-NSIC performer. The 13th conference golf championship squad’s highest placement during the in BSU history. Joining Jenkins on fall was a second at the Moorhead Inthe All-NSIC team was Tanner vitational where Brick and two other Johnson (sophomore, Bemidji). BSU runners finished in the top 10.
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing
Photo courtesy of Northwoods Press-News
(Continued from page 3) by the Minnesota Science Teachers Association and the Minnesota Academy of Science. Black is a seventh-grade life science teacher at Bemidji Middle School and serves as the Science Department chairwoman and the science fair coordinator at the Middle School. She was nominated for the award by a group of her 1997-98 students and their parents … Nicole Skjerven (’93) married Craig Smith Aug. 22 at Sedona, AZ.. She is employed as a certified public accountant for Meadow Valley Corporation in Phoenix, AZ. Her husband is also a CPA, employed by Pacific Numerix in Phoenix … Miki NojimaSchmunk (’98) and Delvin Schmunk (’98) had a baby boy Oct. 20 … Marty Reinertson (’97) married Jeanette (Boyer) Jan. 18 in Bloomington and accepted the general manager’s position with the Brainerd Mighty Gulls Baseball Club in October. He had previously worked for the Rochester Honkers Baseball Club the past three years in the capacity of assistant general manager … Jeremy Sollund (’94) is the new school psychologist for Badger, Greenbush/Middle River, Roseau and Wanneska/ Malung schools. He lives in Karlstad, where he grew up … Corey Derby (’98) is teaching industrial technology at the Monticello Middle School this year…Jolene Davidson (’92) is teaching life science and chemistry for the Howard LakeWaverly-Winsted schools. She has also been an inhome family counselor for children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders. She lives in Annandale … Trevor J. Cleveland (’94) is a recent graduate of Pacific University’s College of
Optometry in Forest Grove, OR. He is a new associate at the Fairfield Eye Clinic and the Contact Lens Clinic in Eugene, OR, specializing in Low Vision Rehabilitation and contact lenses … Janelle Lynn Remick (’97) married David Knott Oct. 10 in Red Lake Falls. Janelle is employed by the Mentor Public School as a first and second grade teacher and by the Red Lake Falls Public School as head volleyball coach … Lori Skur (’94) married Paul Sinnott Oct. 10 in Hermantown. She is a long-term substitute for Hermantown School and works at Super One in Duluth … Douglas Harlyn Johnson (’92) was among a group of Bemidji teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students” … Susan Brovold (’94) is teaching special education at Bagley High School and also serves as the assistant varsity volleyball coach. For the past two years she served as a long-term substitute for the BELL Program at Bagley Elementary … Dennis Carlson (’92) is a longterm sixth grade substitute at Laporte Schools. Previously he taught for five and a half years in Timber Lake, SD. He and his wife, Lisa, live in Lake George. Dennis Carlson
1980s Susan Swartz (’83) is teaching fourth grade with the WalkerHackensack-Akeley Schools. For the past 10 years she taught middle level social studies and elementary Susan Swartz special education at the Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig School near Bena. She lives in Bemidji with her husband John (‘77) and two children … Nancy Sydow (’81) and her husband, Jeff, of Hines, announce the Sept. 8th birth of a daughter …Alumni reporting new additions to their families included Bill Sanford (’80) and his wife, Jennifer, of Bemidji, March 27th birth of a daughter, Kathryn. Bill is director of engineering for KAWE/ KAWB Public Television; Gina Faver (’88) and her husband, Bill announce the Sept. 10th birth of a daughter … Lori Gullicksrud (’88) of Eagan and Jim Lanes of Rosemount were married Sept. 26 in Solway. The bride and groom are both employees of Northwest Airlines in Eagan … Cheri Frandrup (’82) was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in the Minnesota State Patrol and began her duties in the West Metro District on July 8. Prior to her promotion, Frandrup spent 14 years working in the East Metro District … Brett Joyce (’83) is Triton High School’s new principal. For the last two years he’s been a superintendent and principal at LeCenter Schools, grades 7-12 … Arlene Schwerzler (’85) has been named mortgage loan specialist at Norwest
1978 BSU INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM REUNION A good time was had by all of those members of the 1978 BSU intramural football championship team who got together during Homecoming for a reunion. Many of the players had not seen each other since they played together as teammates in 1978. Pictured (from left to right) front row: Jerry and Jim Erdahl; second row: Dave Graber, Bill Wassink, two fans, Mike Heffernan and Mark Pannkuk; back row: Kent Houston, Steve Graber, Jerry Holforty and Jim Tuorila. Mortgage in Winona. Prior to her promotion, she was the consumer manager of Norwest Bank for the past four years and has been with Norwest Bank Winona since 1986. She lives with her husband, Tom, and their two children in Winona … Jeffrey L. Wilson (’84) of San Diego, CA, works for the Department of Veterans Affairs as a property manager for Southern California VA-owned properties. He’s been with VA for eight years and his wife of 14 years, Diane, also works for the VA. Wilson will retire from the U.S. Army Reserves in mid-1999 … Julie Olson (’88) is Lester Prairie’s new seventh grade language arts teacher … Greg S. Browne (’86) is the new project manager with Northern Environmental Technologies Inc., Brainerd. A
geologist, Browne has more than six years of consulting experience from Braun Intertec in Edina. His new responsibilities include the implementation of Northern Environmental’s ISO 14000 program and cleanup of contaminated properties … Sue Frank (’86) took over as administrative assistant at the Indus School in early August. She was coordinator of the gifted and talented program at Indus the past two years and is working on her school principal license requirements at BSU ... Tom Serratore (’87) is returning to BSU as an associate coach of the men’s hockey team. The team moved into Division I status this year becoming the fifth major college hockey school in the state … Keith
12-4 @Morningside 7 PM 12-5 @South Dakota 7:30 PM 12-9 @UM-Crookston 7 PM 12-11 St. Cloud 7 PM 12-13 Mankato 3 PM 12-19 @Michigan Tech. 4 PM 12-28 California-PA % 10 AM 12-30 Georgia SW % TBA 1-9 @Northern* 5:30 PM 1-13 @Winona* 5:30 PM 1-16 Moorhead* 5:30 PM 1-20 UM-Morris* 5:30 PM 1-23 @Wayne State* 1 PM 1-27 UM-Duluth* 5:30 PM 1-30 @Southwest* 5:30 PM 2-3 @Winona* 5:30 PM 2-6 Northern* 5:30 PM 2-10 UM-Morris* 5:30 PM 2-13 @Moorhead* 5:30 PM 2-17 @UM-Duluth* 5:30 PM 2-20 Wayne State * 1 PM 2-24 Southwest* 5:30 PM % Land Of Magic Tournament @ Orlando, FL **NSIC
Women’s Ice Hockey 12-4/5 UW-Superior 7:05 PM 12-11 Concordia 7:05 PM 12-31 @ St. Benedict% 8 PM 1-1 @ Augsburg% 2:15 PM 1-2 @ St. Mary’s% 12:45 PM 1-9/10 St. Mary’s 2 PM 1-15/16 @ UM-Duluth 7 PM 1-22/23 St. Cloud 7:05, 2 PM 1-29/30 @St. Cloud 7:35, 7:05 PM 2-5/6 @Wiconsin-Superior 3:30 PM 2-10 @Concordia College 7 PM 2-13/14 UM-Duluth 2 PM 2-19 Gustavus 7 PM 2-20 @Mankato 1 PM 2-27 Mankato 7:05 PM 3- 3, 7, 12 Midwest Showdown % Women’s Collegiate New Years Tournament Hosted By Augsburg College
Men’s Basketball 12-2 12-4-5 12-9 12-11 12-12 12-18 12-31 1-2 1-9 1-13 1-16 1-20 1-23 1-27 1-30 2-3 2-6 2-10 2-13 2-17 2-20 2-24
@ UM-Crookston @UMD Tournament UM-Crookston @NDSU Tournament @NDSU Tournament Northwestern College Mayville State @St. Scholastica @Northern* @Winona* Moorhead* UM-Morris* @Wayne State* UM-Duluth* @Southwest* Winona* Northern* @UM-Morris* @Moorhead* @UM-Duluth* Wayne State* Southwest* *NSIC
7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7 PM TBA TBA 7 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 3 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 3 PM 7:30 PM
Men’s Ice Hockey 12-11/12 12-18 1-2 1-4 1-8-9 1-11 1-15/16 1-20 1-22 1-23 1-29/30 2-2 2-5-6 2-12/13 2-16 2-18/19
@Air Force Tourney # TBA Augsburg College 7:05 PM Manitoba 7:05 PM @Manitoba 7:05 PM UW-Stout* 7:05 PM Iowa State 7:05 PM @UW-Stevens Point* 7:05 PM @St. John’s 7 PM @St. Scholastica* 7:30 PM St. Scholastica* 7:05 PM @UW-River Falls* 7:05 PM Gustavus Adolphus 7:05 PM @UW-Superior* 7:05 PM UW-Eau Claire* 7:05 PM @Mankato 7:05 PM @Nebraska-Omaha 7:05 PM *NCHA # Air Force Academy, Bemidji State, Bentley College, UM-Crookston
Peterson (’81) was hired as an industrial technology teacher in the Cambridge-Isanti District, instructing classes in wood production and electricity, plumbing and heating. In addition to teaching, Peterson has been self-employed as a contractor and worked in real estate … Pamela Story (’82) is teaching ninth and tenth grade physical education and health at Kenyon-Wanamingo Schools this year. She and her husband, Scott, have three children … Randall Sims (’89) is the new industrial arts teacher at Morris Area High School. He comes to Morris following six years of teaching in Arizona and an additional three at Badger High School near Roseau … Jeff M. Hall (’87) is employed as a social worker for the Twin Ports Veteran’s Administration Outpatient Clinic and commander of the 477th Medical Company in Duluth … Steve Sundahl (’87) instructed students in a sculpture session on ceramic slip casting during a recent three-day Minnesota Community College Fine Arts Festival/Symposium at BSU … Melodie (Van
Steve Sundahl
Sports Winter SportsPreviews Men’s Ice Hockey After making it to the Final Four in the NCAA I tournament at North Dakota in his first head coaching assignment, the career of R.H. “Bob” Peters, the second winningest coach in college hockey with 711 wins, has come full circle. This season, Peters will begin to orchestrate a plan to make Bemidji State a force in the Division I ranks after winning national titles at the NAIA, NCAA III and NCAA during his 32 years at BSU. A dozen returning letterwinners will serve as the foundation for BSU, including top goal scorer Shane Kalbrener (senior, Grafton, ND) and high scoring forwards Bruce Matatall (senior, Regina, Sask.), Jerod Bina (senior, Grand Forks, ND) and Marc Lafleur (senior, Hearst, Ont.). Greg Ambrose (senior, Edmonton, Alb.) was the top scoring defenseman in the NCHA last season and anchors the defense. The Beavers should be solid in goal with junior Adam Pavlatos (senior, Duluth) returning after a 19-7 campaign a year ago. The loss of several key players to graduation opens the playing-time gate for what Peters called “a recruiting class that ranks as one of the best in recent years.”
Women’s Ice Hockey First-year head coach Ruthann Cantile will begin building the women’s ice hockey tradition with a rather young and inexperienced group. Cantile, who coached Western Michigan to the women’s hockey club national championship in 1998, got a late start on the recruiting trail and will be working with players develop stability, speed and flexibility. Defense and goaltending should be strengths for BSU this season.
Kampen) Broden (’81) recently received her Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Loyola University, Chicago, IL. She currently runs a private practice in the Minneapolis area … Catherine M. Stanke (’80), managing director of finance and administration at the Institute of Management Accountants, Washington, DC, has earned the Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives. Prior to certification, applicants are rated on their experience and accomplishments in association management and must successfully complete a comprehensive examination which tests general knowledge of the association management profession … Chad Bergerson (’88) has moved back to Minnesota from Phoenix, AZ, to work for Children’s Hospitals & Clinics. On April 4 he married Catherine Ferguson … Rosa (Bailey) Jones (’86) of Fridley recently accepted a new position as propane contract administrator for the new petroleum alliance between Farmland Industries & Cenex Harvest States, Country Energy LLC. She’s married to Ron Jones (’86), who is a senior programmer analyst for the pharmaceutical division at 3M in St. Paul … Donn Koperski (’86) is employed with Northwest Airlines. He was married in November of 1997 and lives with his wife in Apple Valley … Gary L. Canivez (’82) has been promoted to associate professor of psychology at Eastern Illinois University and received an annual EIU Achievement and Contribution Award
Key players include goalie Janet Hicks (sophomore, Portage, MI) and defender Kirstin Peahl (St. Charles, IL) both of whom played on Cantile’s Western Michigan club national championship team. Other key players with significant experience include Beth Goddard (freshman, Thief River Falls), Heather Hangsleben (freshman, East Grand Forks), Jessica Bina (sophomore, Grand Forks, ND), and Jen Retka (junior, South St. Paul), who won All-State honors in 1996.
Men’s Basketball The 11-16 season a year ago was a vast improvement for head coach Dave Gunther, and the Beavers look to build on last season’s success with some key returnees and talented newcomers. Five letterwinners with starting experience return this season, including leading scorer B.J. LaVelle (junior, Monticello) and leading rebounder Ken Ponto (junior, Menomonie, WI). Ben Caron (junior, Laporte) is the projected starter at center, and Seth Greenwaldt (junior, Moorhead) is back at the twoguard position. The incoming class is a balance of guards and big men, highlighted by Joey Riccio, the single season scoring leader from Santa Paula High School (CA), and Kris Pederson, a 19 - point scorer at Pequot Lakes High School.
in the area of research. Since 1995, he has taught in the EIU school psychology training program and served as sport psychologist for EIU Intercollegiate Athletics working with the men’s and women’s cross country, women’s basketball, women’s softball and men’s and women’s tennis teams. Canivez has also started Apex Sport Psychology Services, offering individual and group sport psychology consulting … Michael Michaud (’97) and Ah-Gah-Shee Raissa Carlson, both of Cass Lake, were married Sept. 5. He is currently employed at the Palace Casino Hotel. She is in her second year of the carpentry program at Northwest Technical College and is employed at the Cass Lake Indian Hospital … Randy Lynn Scott (’80) and Samantha Jane Borgen, both of Lincoln, NE, were married June 20 in Lincoln … Jeff Olson (’86), executive officer of the Bismarck-Mandan Home Builders Association, was recently presented with the Rachel Manley Small Office Honor Award at the National Association of Home Builders’ Executive Officers Council Seminar. The award is one of four special honor awards given to an association executive officer who has been judged to be an exceptionally effective manager … Michael Parsons (’86) recently moved to New York, NY, to pursue a master’s Jeff Olson degree in physical
Women’s Basketball Although the 1997-98 season was highlighted with a victory over NCAA II Tournament team Northern State to give head coach Doreen Zierer her 100th collegiate win, Bemidji State had a rough ride last year, finishing 9-22 overall and 3-9 in NSIC play. However, with five starters returning and one of the best recruiting classes in the Zierer era, the Beavers enter the 1998-99 season with experience and versatility at all positions. Returnees Jen Ohme (junior, Bloomington) and Erin Walker (junior, Madison, WI) team up for one of the best backcourts in the league, while Katie Olson (junior, Bloomer, WI), Peggy Hammel (junior, Stewartville), Denise Shinkoeth (sophomore, St. Paul) and Christine Schulze (junior, North Fond du Lac, WI) provide rebounding, scoring and defense in the front court. The newcomers not only bring athletic ability and scoring punch to the offense, they also bring balance and depth to every position.
Jen Ohme headlines the BSU women’s basketball team.
Tim Mortensen
therapy at Columbia University. He spent the past two years in New Orleans, LA … Kathleen (Ketola) Childs (’88) of Joplin, MO, is the manufacturing controller for Brass Eagle, Inc. Brass Eagle was a subsidiary of Daisy Manufacturing until 1997 when it became a publicly held corporation. The company manufactures and distributes paintball guns and equipment. Childs has lived in Joplin for 10 years with her busband, Richard, and two children … Mark Joerger (’80) of Burnsville works for Cenex, trading oil futures and options. He recently took a year off from work and traveled with Up With People, a traveling entertainment group which performed in Europe and 28 states in the U.S. during that time. Joerger lives with his wife, Vicki, and four children …
Photo courtesy of Northwoods Press-News
1998-99 Winter Sports Schedules
Horizons Page 5
Women’s Basketball
Tim Mortensen (’83), creative director for Meyer Marketing, St. Cloud, received four awards from the 15th Annual Healthcare Advertising Awards. Mortenson took home Gold Awards for medical device company Angeion Corporation’s Innovation Poster, Angeion Corporation’s Innovation Mouse Pad and Central Minnesota Heart Center’s Referring Physician’s Case Studies. He also received a merit award for Angeion Corporation’s Innovation Campaign. A total of 16 awards were given to Minnesota agencies and Meyer Marketing captured more than any other agency in the state … John Henningsgaard (’87) is teaching secondary math at Laporte schools this year, following 10 years of teaching in Albany. He and his wife, JoAnne, have three children, ages 10, 16 and 18 … Edward Hadash (’87) has worked as a realtor for RE/MAX Advisors in Burnsville for nine years … John Kennedy (’85) and John Henningsgaard his wife, Linda (Sandercock) Kennedy (’84) live in Soldotna, AK, with their two children, ages 9 and 12. John teaches math and coaches volleyball at Skyview High School for the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District. Lin is employed as an administrative assistant for the Kenai Peninsula United Way. The couple also (Continued on page 6)
Horizons Page 6
Hall of Fame Athletic Hall of Fame
Nine Inducted into the
Left to right: Bruce Falk, Marie Hasty, Trip Hedrick, Martha Hull, Jim Walrath, Allan Westerlund, Herb Whiting, and Susan Alstrom
Nine former athletes were inducted into the Bemidji State University Athletic Hall of Fame during ceremonies September 25. The 1998 inductees include Herb Whiting, a 1935 graduate, Bemidji; Allan Westerlund, 1949, Bloomington; Jim Thompson, 1966, deceased; Bruce Falk, 1971, Salol; Jim Walrath, 1971, Chippewa Falls, WI; Martha Hull, 1973, Minneapolis; Susan Alstrom, 1976, Hector; Trip Hedrick, 1977, Ames, IA; and Marie Hasty, 1973, Chaska. Athletic Hall of Fame inductees are standouts in Beaver athletics who graduated at least 20 years ago, or are coaches and administrators who made significant contributions to the devel-
opment and success of BSU athletics. Professional accomplishments as well as service work are among the criteria considered by a committee that selects the winners following a nomination process. Since its inception in 1978, 119 individuals have been named to the Hall of Fame. The 20th anniversary class included: HERB WHITING, all-conference selection in football; member of baseball and inaugural BSU hockey team in 1931; played semi-pro hockey in the International League; organized Hallock’s first football program and established as well as coached its first high school hockey team; was instrumental in bringing hockey into the Bemidji
High School program; officiated hockey, football and basketball throughout the region. ALLAN WESTERLUND, baseball, football, basketball and boxing team member; active in amateur baseball, where he played for 13 seasons; athletic director, teacher and coach of football and baseball on the high school levels; started summer recreation program in Richfield; served as district delegate for the Minnesota State High School League and as president of the District Coaches’ Association. JIM THOMPSON, member and captain of the men’s ice hockey team, where he was the long-time holder of the career scoring records; coached an Anchorage,
AK high school team to state title; coached Rainy River Community College to a state championship; started youth hockey in Brainerd; refereed high school and college hockey games in northern Minnesota for 15 years. BRUCE FALK, member of four NAIA national ice hockey championship teams; MVP of NAIA National Tournament and All-American in 1971; member of USA 1972 hockey team; received doctor of dental surgery degree from University of Minnesota; member of the honorary dental society Omicron Kappa Upsilon; sponsors community youth, education and human service activities. JIM WALRATH, former cross country and track runner and record holder; five time recipient of Excellence in Education Award; coached 43 seasons on high school level in track and field, cross country, football, and basketball; state playoff teams in football and cross country; lead designer for a new physical education program at the Chippewa Falls Middle School MARTHA HULL, member of field hockey, tennis and basketball teams; participated in 13 national tournaments as a part of the Minnesota Field Hockey Club; competed in three elite and six masters national championships for the Minneapolis Rowing Club; currently is a computer programmer for a firm providing software, hardware and services to
ambulatory health care providers. SUSAN ALSTROM, all-conference and national team selection in field hockey; all-conference in basketball; all-conference and state champion in track and field; 290-140 record as high school volleyball coach; coached three conference softball championship teams; member of AAU and active participant in marathons, triathlons, and other competitions. TRIP HEDRICK, captain and sixtime varsity record holder of the swim team; all-conference and NAIA All-American selection; coached Winona High School to six consecutive conference championship while compiling a 110-25 dual meet record; named Big 8 Swimming Coach of the Year at Iowa State University; has won over 20 U.S. master’s swim titles and four master’s world records. MARIE HASTY, member of BSU volleyball, track and field hockey teams; selected as 1975 Outstanding Educator for Benson schools; high school coach for volleyball, basketball and track; active in the Minnesota State High School League, serving on the athletic advisory, the volleyball evaluation, and transportation committees; chair of committee to achieve MSHSL status for dance team. The Athletic Hall of Fame ceremonies were part of Homecoming festivities at BSU.
partner Todd Haugen (‘79). He also co-hosts the station’s public service program, “Chat-About” … Don Stengel (’78) of Downington, PA, is manager of color technology for LNP Engineering Plastics, a custom compounder of engineered thermoplastics. LNP has four manufacturing plants in the U.S. as well as sites in England, the Netherlands, France and Malaysia … Bob Anderson (’77) was hired this year at LeRoy-Ostrander Schools as the district’s fulltime elementary EBD instructor … Jean Hanson (’73) has been hired as the work experience instructor at the Willmar Public Schools’ Area Learning Center. She comes to Willmar from a similar position with the Meeker and Wright Special Education Co-op … Debra Ciminski (’75) is teaching art at the junior and senior high school level in International Falls this year. She and her Husband, Randy, both grew up in International Falls and now plan to finish raising their three daughters there … Kathy Biondich (’72) teaches Title I classes at Boase and her husband, Joe, teaches industrial arts in Mesabi East High School. They have three children … Len Rothlisberger (’72) is the new principal of the Bigfork High School. He previously was the counselor at Grand Rapids Middle School. He and his wife, Kathleen, have two grown children … Bill Kirkeby (‘76) is the new principal of Lewiston-Altura High School. He was a band director for the past 20 years, spending the last eight at Deer River High School. He and his wife, Pat, have three children ages 10, 14 and 16 … Connie Nelson (’72) is the new elementary principal at Lake of the Woods School District. Nelson was most recently a fifth grade teacher in the Warroad Middle School and prior
to that, spent 18 years teaching in the high school learning disabilities program. She and her husband, Bruce, live on a farm southwest of Salol and have two grown children … Larry Getchell (’73) is teaching in the area learning center at Onamia. He previously taught at Lake City … Larry Otterblad (’72) of Silver Bay was recently inducted into the MSHSC Coaches 25 Year Club … Gary Allman (’78) and his wife, Patty Allman (’79) have two daughters and live in Cottage Grove. Gary will have been working for UPS 20 years in March and Pauline Danforth Patty is a fifth grade teacher in South Washington County … Pauline Danforth (’78) of Minneapolis was recently appointed coordinator of American Indian student academic support services at Metropolitan State University. In this position, Danforth provides information, advocacy, academic advising and support for prospective and current Metro State students of color. She also monitors students’ academic progress to graduation … Richard Herder (’77) has been living in Naples, FL, since 1987 and teaches English and speech at Lely High School. He’s the coach of the school’s speech and debate team and was chosen as LHS teacher of the year in 1996. His wife, Marsha, is a department manager for Burdines, a Florida department store
Where We Are ... What We’re Doing Photo courtesy of The Bemidji Pioneer
(Continued from page 5)
Ann Norton coaches little league … Ann Norton (‘82) is a new member of Gallery North in downtown Bemidji. She specializes in hand-built clay vessels, tiles and covered boxes. Her work is on display for sale along with the works of 14 other artisans … Mark Sycks (’86) and his wife, Linda, live in Oak Grove … Nancy DeVriendt Klassen (’88) lives in Carlton. She’s been married five and a half years and has three children ages 5, 2 and one month … Paul V. Boswell (’81) was recently named director of multicultural student services at North Dakota State University in Fargo. He had previously served as Tri-College University communications coordinator for eight years and taught part-time at NDSU for three years. Earlier this year he received a master’s degree in educational leadership from NDSU … Roy Booth
(’89) and his wife, Cynthia, both Bemidji playwrights, will have their children’s play “How the Jellyfish Lost Its Bones” published later this month by International Readers’ Theatre of Winnipeg. The play is loosely based on a Japanese folk tale. This play will be Roy’s 15th published play and Cynthia’s first. The Booths own B&B Comics, Books and Games, Inc., in downtown Bemidji … Ann Skunes Bowman (’84), Karen Vetter Bradley (’80), James Harold DeWenter (’82), Joseph Alfred LaValla (’86), Daniel Clyde Ninham (’83) and Craig Wallace Rypkema (’87) were among a group of Bemidji teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students” … Stephen Mark Bechtold (’89) was among a group of Blackduck teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students.”
1970s Joy Wheeler (’79) of Bemidji is a new special education teacher at Laporte this year. She and her husband, Jim, have three children ages 11, 16 and 22 … Don Nordlund (’74) was hired this fall as the new Mahnomen High School principal. He’s originally from Littlefork and today makes his home near Bagley with his wife, Ruth Ann, and son, Dan. Their daughter is a senior at BSU. Nordlund has been teaching for 24 years, two years
in Oklee and 22 years in Bagley. Last year he completed his educational administration degree from St. Cloud State University … Zane Birky (’77) was recently promoted to Navy commander while serving at Joint Intelligence Center Pacific, Twin Cities. He joined the Navy in 1980 and was promoted based on sustained superior job performance and proficiency in his specialty … Cheryl Thueson (’79) of Grand Rapids is teaching at Northern Elementary in Deer River, spending half of her time teaching elementary music and the other half serving as a tutor … Dave Hallan (’70) will complete his 25th year of teaching and coaching at Bagley High School this year … Jay Griggs (’70) filed as a candidate in the Wisconsin’s 30th Assembly primary election. Griggs is a former newspaper publisher who left the business to run for the 10th District seat two years ago. He now runs Griggs Aviation in New Richmond, WI, and works as a newspaper consultant … Mardy Karger (’72) of Bemidji was recently selected by Mardy Karger the Minnesota Broadcasters Association as the 1998 Outstanding Broadcast Personality in the non-metro radio category. For 26 years Karger has served the Bemidji and Cass Lake area as a voice on KBUN AM and KB101 FM. He is the station’s news director and an integral part of the KB101 morning show, co-anchoring with
Horizons Page 7
Communiques
from alumni
Communiques
BSU ALUMNI TRAVEL PROGRAMS . . . BSU Alumni Association board members recently participated in a BSU Alumni Tour of Ireland in October. Shown below are John Liapis ’52 and his wife Dottie standing in front of the Cliffs of Ireland. Shown at left is Rose Skyberg atop the tower of King John’s Castle in Limerick City.
AND SUE KRINGEN, DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Join the BSU Alumni Listserv Join fellow BSU Alumni on the BSU Alumni Listserv. To subscribe and unsubscribe from the list, all you need to do is send your commands to: listserv@info.bemidji.msus.edu The commands that this listserv understands are: SUBSCRIBE alumni UNSUBSCRIBE alumni HELP
University Fund Benefits BSU IN MEMORIAM Harry Kramer (’67) of Goodridge Electa B. Thoren (’55) of Solway Carsten Jensen (’96) of Kelliher Margaret Galloway (’56) of Bemidji Desmond Sagedahl (’61) of Bemidji Gloria Witt (former faculty) of Lexington, KY Vada Larsen (’52) of Corona, CA Ken Skogen (former faculty) of Guthrie
The University Fund consists of all unrestricted gifts to the BSU Foundation. It helps support and sustain quality education at BSU. The yearly contributions of alumni, parents, businesses and friends provide the extra margin of excellence, which stimulates and enhances the teaching and learning environment. Gifts to the University Fund help support scholarships, faculty and student research, student recruitment and retention efforts, special departmental programs or projects and help the BSU Foundation work towards its mission. Prior to this year the University Fund was known as the Annual Fund. The University Fund is comprised of gifts from a variety of fund raising activities but the two largest sources are the Alumni Phonathon and the Foundation Membership Drive. “So far this year, alumni through the Phonathon alone have contributed more than $40,000 to the University Fund,” said Tricia Bunten, director of annual giving programs. “Our alumni calling program is going extremely well this year. Our student callers are impressed at how friendly and generous our alumni are,” said Bunten.
1948 CLASS REUNION A good time was had by all of those members of the Class of 1948 and emeriti professors who got together during Homecoming for a reunion. Pictured (from left to right) front row: Louie Marchand; second row: Helen Spaulding, Conrad Stai, Dorothy Stai, Myrtie Hunt, Jim Lillegaard, Ione Lillegaard, Helen Mary Wagner, Pat Gregerson, Patricia Mickelson, Marie Bishop, Phil Sauer; back row: Bill Britton, Buster Spaulding, Otto Mickelson, Harold Peters, Betty Sauer, Maneer Mansour, Jim Bensen. chain. The couple has three children, two in college and one still in high school … Dan Rose (’73) has been assigned as commanding officer of Marine Aircraft Group 49 and is stationed in Willow Grove, PA … Wanda Bell (’79) is the new principal at Pillager Elementary. A former fourth grade teacher at Pillager Elementary and parent volunteer in the Gifted/Talented Program, Bell has been teaching at Pillager for three years … Robert D. Zuehlke (’71) filed for re-election for the position of auditor/ treasurer of Itasca County. He was first elected as county auditor in 1986. The positions of auditor and treasurer were combined in 1994. He and his wife, Kaye, live in Coleraine and are parents to four children …Jan Johnson (’78) filed for re-election to the position of Cottonwood County auditor/ treasurer … W. Scott Currie (’79) recently received his juris doctor degree from Thomas Jefferson School of Law. Currie was a professional hockey player in the early 1980s and is the owner, operator and developer of Wild Waters, MN, Inc. … Helen Gill (’76) of Bemidji was featured this summer in an article in Minnesota, a publication of the University of Minnesota, focusing on her tireless volunteer efforts. Gill, a ‘41 graduate of the University of Minnesota, is the contact person for the University Alumni Association in Bemidji. Her 30 years of work as owner of a men’s clothing store and her past position as president of the Bemidji State Alumni Board have given Gill a unique position in the community… Deanna Mattson-Millar (’79) is the
new learning disability/emotional behavior disorder instructor at the Mesabi East High School. Her husband, Ross (’82), is also a teacher in Cotton and they have two children … Nancy J. (Dammann) Partch (’72) is teaching a combined first- and second-grade classroom at Reede Gray in Redwood Falls. She has been teaching in the same school district for 25 years … Mark Kelly (’79) of St. Anthony works as a telephone software specialist for Lucent Technologies. He’s married and has four daughters … Greg Ferrin (’74) of Grasston is an elementary teacher at Coon Rapids. His wife, Kathy (’70), is a school-to-work director at Mora. The couple has two sons … Sherry Myers (’79) is living in Minneapolis … Terrance Lee Bradley (’75), Thomas Richard Galarneault (’76), Meredith Leigh Kehoe (’72), Clyde Edward Larson (’78) Mark Neurauter (’76) and Morris Webb (’72) were among a group of Bemidji teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students” … Judith Marie Ross (’71) was among a group of Blackduck teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students.”
1960s Ken Kucera (’69), Mountain Iron-Buhl elementary principal, will retire in December after 30 years in
education. Kucera was elementary principal in the Buhl school district from 1974 until the district consolidated with Mountain Iron in the early 1980s. He spent three years as director of special services and then became principal at the Merritt Elementary School. Kucera said he will spend time at his home on Pelican Lake and make the most of retirement … Michael Dewitt (’66) is painting an oil woodland mural at the Hobson Memorial Union at BSU. The huge painting is above a portion of the food service, between the first and second floors. “The idea is to paint while people are here so that they can come by, make comments and watch a work in progress,” said Dewitt … Floyd Olson (’62) has retired from 36 years of teaching, the past 15 as counselor at TriCounty High School and Marshall County Central. In the early 1990s he also shared counseling time with Greenbush and Middle River. His retirement plans include farming, carpentry and travel … Bob Huber (‘67) attended the 18th Annual National Veterans Wheelchair Games in July. He is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1985 … David J. Lillquist (’66) and his wife, Linnea (Lindstrum) Lillquist (’68) are living in Fayetteville, AR … Lillian (Larsen) Mathews (’67) of Bemidji is retired and enjoys traveling … Loren Solberg (’65), incumbent representative of House District 3B, was re-elected in November. Solberg has served 15 years as a representative and was mayor of Bovey for 12 years
The first command subscribes you to the Alumni list; the second one takes you off the list; and the third one sends you a help message. These commands should go in the SUBJECT part of your mail. When you send the SUBSCRIBE command, it will send you a reply that tells you that you have been subscribed. Similar messages appear for the UNSUBSCRIBE command. So, once you subscribe, you can send messages to all the people in the list by sending mail to: alumni@info.bemidji.msus.edu
Annual Winter Rendezvous Set March 14-15 Mark your calendars and plan to attend the third annual BSU Winter Rendezvous which will take place March 14-15, 1999, in Laughlin, Nevada. The Colorado Belle Hotel Casino will serve as the host hotel where the opening registration, cocktail party and the Rendezvous Banquet will be held. Bill Howe (’51) has again volunteered to coordinate the third annual Winter Rendezvous Golf Classic golf tournament. A bus tour is being organized for the non-golfers. A complete schedule and registration information will be mailed soon. Those BSU alums who spend winter months in southern Nevada, southern California or Arizona are asked to forward their winter addresses to the Alumni Office so an invitation can be mailed. For further information, contact the Alumni Office, David Park House, Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 (toll free:1-877-BSU-ALUM; 218-755-3989; alumni@vax1.bemidji.msus.edu).
prior … Gus Ziemer (’68) is the new industrial arts teacher at Laporte High School. He and his wife, Pat, have three children and four grandsons … Bill Lawrence (’62) of Bemidji ran as a Reform Party candidate for state representative of District 4A ... Edna M. Hunnicutt (’62) of Wadena is retired and now works as an active volunteer in the community and her church … Karen S. (Goodner) Ferree(’69) of Blaine has been employed for the past nine years at UW-Stout as an associate professor in general business administration and as program director for the general business administration major … Howie Schultz (’63) was named 1997-98 Teacher of the Year by the Bemidji Education Association, following his nomination by the entire staff at Riverside School. He retired at the end of the school year after 35 years with the school district … Paul Bloom (’66) was keynote speaker at the 19th Annual Headwaters Conference on Aging this summer in Bemidji. Bloom, a.k.a. Mr. Fun Bloom, uses comedy and music to teach practical tips on how fun can reduce stress and improve relationships. He has been director of community education for Brainerd Public Schools for 12 years … Kathryn Jean Cyr (’68) was among a group of Bemidji teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students” …John Edward Rubash (’66) was among a group of Blackduck teachers selected to be in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.” The teachers were selected by former students who are listed in “Who’s Who Among American High School Students.”
1950s Daniel Moore (’50) and his wife, Nadene (’48), spend their summers on Woman Lake and winters in Rochester … Delores Lind (’54) of Battle Lake has written three books and is enjoying her retirement by traveling and spending time with her family and church … Charles D. Patterson (’50) traveled to China last year where he visited museums, libraries and archives and attended the Peking Opera. He was BSU head librarian from 1955 to 1958 and is a professor emeritus of Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge … Earl Hutchinson (’59) and his wife, Christine, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at an open house in Bemidji … Robert W. Green (‘57) retired from UNYSIS Corp. in 1995 and is living in St. Petersburg, FL, with his wife, Peg. Green retired from the U.S. Navy in 1979. He has seven grandchildren … Jim Jenner (’57) and his wife, Marlene Jenner (’56), live in Sun City, AZ, where Jim enjoys playing tennis and golf and participating in local theater productions. Marlene stays involved at church with Bible study, singing groups and church musicals.
1940s Arnold Tranby (’49) lives in Moorhead … Margaret Zimmerman Johnson (’49) of Frenchtown, MT, lives in a “beautiful little valley in Big Sky Country.” She is retired after 30 years of teaching elementary school and has four grown children and four grandchildren.
Horizons Page 8
Heritage Club Newsletter
Alumni
Outstanding AlumniNamed
Carl Baer
Becky Dawley
Robert Thorson
Carl Baer, Becky Dawley and Robert Thorson were honored as Outstanding Alumni during Homecoming festivities on campus this fall. The trio joins 80 other graduates of Bemidji State as recipients of the highest award presented by the Alumni Association.
ROBERT THORSON graduated from Bemidji State in 1973 with a degree in earth science. He went on to receive a master’s from the University of Alaska and a doctorate from the University of Washington. Between 1980 and 1986, he was a faculty member in geology and geophysics at the University of Alaska, where he also directed the Tephrochrononloy Center and the Alaska Quaternary Center. In 1987 Thorson moved to the University of Connecticut in Storrs-Mansfield where he is a professor of geology and geophysics.
A past visiting faculty fellow at Yale University and a visiting scholar at Dartmouth College, Thorson has been invited to speak at many national conferences and symposiums. He is a prolific author who has written two books. Grants he received have funded research projects on earthquake hazards, coastal processes on the Atlantic, and wetland protection in freshwater sanctuaries. Thorson recently was funded for a Fulbright Award to carry out natural hazards research in Chile.
CARL BAER, from Bemidji, graduated
from BSU in 1972 and went on to receive a degree from the University of Minnesota School of Law. He is a member and former president of the Beltrami County Bar Association; a member and former president of the 14th District Bar Association; and a member of the Minnesota and American Trial Lawyers Association as well as the Minnesota and American Bar Associations. A registered arbitrator with the American Arbitration Association, he is a Supreme Court training certified mediator and is secretary of the Minnesota State Board of Law Examiners. Baer was the 1992 recipient of the Legal Services “Advocacy Achievement Award,” recognizing outstanding legal work for the disadvantaged, and was recognized for his professional accomplishments by the American Research Corporation and by the publication Law and Politics. In addition to being very active in the community, he currently serves as president of the BSU Foundation. BECKY DAWLEY joined Federated In-
surance in Owatonna, as a computer programmer after graduating from BSU in 1977. During her tenure with company, Dawley held several positions before being named vice president of information services. She received a master’s in software design and development from the University of St. Thomas and is a graduate of the Midwest Regional Learning Forum, a society for information management. She has also completed educational programs in management, property and casualty underwriting, insurance services, research and planning. Dawley received the Certified Professional Insurance Woman Award from the National Association of Insurance Women; was named to the 1996 McGraw Hill list as one of the top U.S. women in computing; and received two Awards for Academic Excellence from the Insurance Institute of America.
Save Taxes by Making 1998 Gifts “Anyone may so arrange his affairs that his taxes shall be as low as possible; he is not bound to choose that pattern which will best pay the Treasury; there is not even a patriotic duty to increase one’s taxes.” Jude Learned Hand, 1934.
Many taxpayers do not adequately plan for their taxes and therefore unnecessarily pay higher taxes. Other taxpayers, however, realize they can act now, before year’s end, to substantially reduce their income tax bills. When considering year-end tax planning, make good use of the income tax charitable deduction. A 1998 year-end gift can significantly reduce your income taxes while providing meaningful support for institutions like Bemidji State University. Regardless of income, individuals who itemize can almost always lower income taxes through charitable giving. The charitable deduction affords the option of lowering 1998 taxes through the gifts made in the closing weeks of 1998. For more information on making a gift at year-end, please call the BSU Foundation at (218) 755-2762 or toll-free 1-888-234-5718.
SUPPORTING BSU . . . Joanne Provo, vice president of the BSU Alumni Association, presents Dr. Jim Bensen, BSU President, with a “check” for $330,820 representing the total amount of donations made by alumni to Bemidji State University during the1997-98 fiscal year.
As Lyle Dally thought about his and his wife’s retirement, he knew that he had to be smart about how he invested their money. He developed a retirement plan that would help make sure they would spend their retirement doing what they’ve dreamed of, rather than worrying whether or not they have the funds to get them through. Several years ago, Dally invested in U.S. Government Series EE bonds. As they approached maturity, he needed to make a decision on what to do with them. Dally knew that if he cashed the bonds, he would owe significant capital gains taxes on the accrued interest. He also knew he could roll them over into Series HH bonds and defer the tax payments, but the interest earned on those would be only 4 percent. Instead, he decided to do something that met two of his goals: diversify his investment portfolio while providing a higher rate of return on his investment, as well as making a charitable gift to a cause he cared about. Dally sold his series EE bonds and used the proceeds to purchase a charitable gift annuity from Bemidji State University. By doing this, he offset his tax liability with the tax credit he will receive from making a charitable gift. In addition, this annuity will pay him a lifetime annual income of 7.3 percent, a much better rate than he would have received from the HH bonds. Not only did Dally benefit greatly by making a charitable gift to Bemidji State University, he also got the benefit of feeling good about supporting a cause important to him. A 1954 BSU graduate, Dally grew up in Williams. His first career included a stint in the army, followed by 25 years in the computer data processing industry. In 1982, Dally decided it was time for a change. Helping his son get a start in a career, Dally bought a grocery store in the small town of Patagonia, Arizona. He still runs that store, with the help of his wife, his daughter and her husband. How much longer he’ll be there, Dally doesn’t know, but with the purchase of the charitable gift annuity, he felt the outlook on his retirement just got better. For more information on charitable gift annuities, contact the director of development, BSU Foundation at 1-888-234-5718 or 218-755-2876.
Jeanne and Lyle Dally
Nominations Sought for Board Members Active members of the BSU Alumni Association are encouraged to become candidates for one of eight openings on the board of directors. In order to qualify to seek a position, candidates must have been awarded a degree from Bemidji State University and must be an active member of the organization. Active membership is defined as an alum who makes a $30 or more donation to the University Fund at some time during the year ($20 prior to July 1, 1998) Election ballots will be automatically mailed to all active members of the Alumni Association in mid-April. Board members whose terms will expire at the end of the current fiscal year include: Roger Aitken ’73; Caroline Andrican ’53,’62; Debra Kellerman ’72,’75; Adele Munsterman ’74; Mark Paulson ’61; Rose Skyberg ’57; Joe Vene ’74; and William Wagner ’60,’67. Any member of the BSU Alumni Association can nominate a candidate to seek election to the Board. Nominations need to be submitted in writing. Submissions and inquiries can be forwarded to the Alumni Office, David Park House, Bemidji State University, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 (toll free: 1-877-BSU-ALUM; 218-755-3989; alumni@vax1.bemidji.msus.edu).