Leader|april 9|2008

W E D N E S D AY, A P R I L 9 , 2 0 0 8 • V O L U M E 7 5 • N O . 3 3 • 8 , 0 0 0 C O P I E S • S E C T I O N A

WEEKEND WATCH:

• FFA dinner & silent auction @ Luck • “Little Women” @ Frederic Schools • “Alice in Wonderland” at SCF Schools • 2008 Pinko Jam @ Grantsburg • Smelt fry @ Luck and Turtle Lake • Soccer club fundraiser @ Centuria • Library fundraiser @ Grantsburg See Coming events and stories

Rep. Boyle will not run again

Served in state Assembly for past 21 years PAGE 3

GAM appeal is filed

Leader INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

$1

Chairman loses in recount

Error in vote tally had Burnett County Board Chairman Larry Main winning following last week’s election but a canvass of votes and official recount resulted in his losing by 2 votes to challenger Harry Patneaude PAGE 3

W h i c h w a y?

New case filed against 23 supervisors; finance meeting issues come and go

PAGE 5

Students in trouble

Separate incidents find 17-, 19-yearolds facing serious charges PAGE 2

New board brings diversity Nine new Polk County board supervisors

PAGE 6

Noted local historian Helen White dies

Memorial service planned PAGE 23

Burning permits now required DNR sets rules on burning as spring fire season begins

PAGE 3

Dorothy (Brittany Flatten) is a bit upset with the Scarecrow (Joey Erickson) when he can't make up his mind which way to go to get to Oz during Webster High School’s production of “The Wizard of Oz,” this past weekend. More photos on page 2 of Northern Currents section. - Photo by Carl Heidel

Ma Barker was here...

ALSO INSIDE

Or at least members of her gang were - allegedly tied to a 1932 murder near Webster; author to present free lecture at North Branch, Minn.

BURNETT COUNTY - According to a new book by Minneapolis author John Koblas, “MA: The Life and Times of Ma Barker and Her Boys,” the notorious BarkerKarpis Gang was quite active in the Webster-Siren area in 1932.

If you haven’t seen the full-size billboard on Hwy. 61, Koblas will be speaking on the Webster killing this Sunday, April 13, at 2 p.m., at the Budget Host Inn & Suites, 6010 Main Street, Ma Barker North Branch, Minn.

Koblas, author of 55 books, as well as television films, was assisted in the project

by Siren’s Jody Pearson and by Carol Fure of the Burnett County Historical Society in Webster. Other area citizens, including Russell Connor, helped out.

On April 26, 1932, the nude body of A. W. Dunlop, second husband of Kate “Ma” Barker, was found on the shores of Lake Fremsted, near Webster. It was

See Ma Barker, page 4

Memorabilia from a Munchkin Back page

Golf, track teams stand ready for green!

S e e

S P O R T S

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

Leader

N e w H o l e I n T h e W a l l C a s i n o & H o t e l p r o g r es s i n g

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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P.O. Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 (M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

715-327-4236 Fax - 715-327-4117 (news copy) Fax - 715-327-4870 (ad copy)

It is not quite time to install the slot machines and gaming tables yet, but the new Hole In The Wall Casino in Danbury is taking shape. The casino is scheduled to open in December of this year and will feature approximately 580 slots, 18 table games, restaurant, buffet and deli bar and new lounge that will feature live music most weekends. About six months after the casino opens, a new hotel with approximately 50 rooms and indoor pool will open.

At right, a billboard on Hwy. 70 at Hertel promotes the new facility. – Photo above by Sherill Summer, photo at right by Gary King

4 0 t h y e a r f o r K i n d e r g a r t en C i r c u s

Siren

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Thurs. & Fri. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.)

715-349-2560 Fax - 715-349-7442

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The Inter-County Leader [ISS No. 87509091] is published weekly. Subscription prices are $30/yr. in Polk and Burnett counties; $34/yr. in Barron, Chisago, Washburn, St. Croix counties; $37/yr. anywhere in the United States $22/yr. for servicemen or women; $22/yr. for students or schools (9 months). Payment is needed before we can start the subscription. No refunds on subscriptions. Persons may subscribe online at www.the-leader.net, write us at Inter-County Leader, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837, or stop by one of our three offices.

Board of directors Vivian Byl, chair Charles Johnson Harvey Stower Merlin Johnson Janet Oachs

An award-winning newspaper Member

• National Newspaper Association • Wisconsin Newspaper Association

The Inter-County Leader is a qualified newspaper for the publication of legal notices, meeting the requirements as set forth in Chapter 985.03 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Every government official or board that handles public money should publish at regular intervals an accounting of it, showing where and how each dollar is spent. We hold this to be a fundamental principle of democratic government. Publisher reserves right to reject any advertisement or news release or letter of opinion at any time.

The Frederic Kindergarten Circus marks its 40th year this year on April 17 at the elementary school gymnasium, beginning at 7 p.m. All previous kindergarten teachers, beginning with Patricia Berquist – who began holding the circus in 1968 – have been sent special invitations to attend, and there will be a display showing programs throughout the years. Anyone with photos from past kindergarten circuses who would be willing to share them with the school are asked to contact the elementary school. This year’s ringmasters (shown above) are Jared Patterson and Landyn Johnson. – Special photo

To urism prom ot io n t im e The new Polk County tourism guide (right) was recently updated and printed with 30,000 copies being made available at tourism outlets and businesses as well as being distributed at camping and outdoor shows in the Twin Cities. Villages and cities throughout the county are featured in the guide, which is published in coordination with the Polk County Tourism Council and local government. A new billboard along Hwy. 35 at Frederic (below) promotes that village’s two-day snowmobile watercross event to be held this year on June 28 and 29 at Coon Lake Park. - Special photos

Pinko Jam to benefifitt area special education children GRANTSBURG - This Saturday’s Pinko Jam in downtown Grantsburg will raise funds to benefit area special education children.

The festivities begin at 2 p.m. with raffles prizes and live music with band playing all afternoon at the Grantsburg American Legion, Denny’s Downtown Lanes and Hummer’s Rendezvous. The music continues until closing.

For more information see this week’s Advertiser. - with submitted information

Follow the Leader.

Boyle says he will not seek re-election SUPERIOR - State Rep. Frank Boyle announced last week that he will not seek re-election as a representative to the 73rd Assembly District which encompasses Douglas and the northern half of Burnett and Washburn counties.

“Today I am announcing that I will not seek reelection as state repreRep. Boyle sentative of the 73rd Assembly District. It has been a tremendous run, and I have enjoyed it immensely,” Boyle said. “ But the time has come for me to retire and enjoy each and every day with my family.

“I’m proud of the issues I have taken on, whether those issues became law or simply needed to be discussed in the public arena.”

Boyle said he and his wife, Kate, look forward to traveling when January arrives and his successor takes over the duties of the office. They also look forward to spending quality time with their son and daughter and their spouses, as well as their granddaughter, Mary.

“I thank all of you for sharing an incredible experience,” Boyle said.

Boyle has served in the state Assembly for the past 21 years. – with information from Rep. Boyle’s office

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Chairman loses in recount Burnett County Board chairman Larry Main has five days to challenge results of recount BURNETT COUNTY - The votes in the contest for Burnett County Supervisor in District 21 in last Tuesday's spring election were recounted this morning, April 9.

Unofficial results posted on the county's Web site following the April 1 election showed incumbent county board chairman Larry Main defeating challenger Harry Patneaude by a margin of 143 to 118.

However, a canvassing of votes showed Patneaude may have won by 3 votes.

An official recount began at 9 a.m.

Wednesday with some 20 absentee

ballots at issue. County officials contacted the state to inquire about the legality of some of the absentee votes cast in the Webb Lake district.

The recount lasted nearly four hours. When it was over, Paneaude had won by just two votes.

Main and his attorney, Ryan Benson, have five days to contest the results.

District 21 includes the town of Blaine; town of Webb Lake; and Ward 2, town of Scott.

Main has served 12 years on the Burnett County Board, the last four as chairman. Patneaude is a 12-year resident of the county and a county taxpayer for the past 51 years.

The last time a recount was held in Burnett County was in November of 2000 in the race for sheriff.

The Leader will post the results of the recount on its Web site at www.the-leader.net.

Students face charges In separate incidents, one student arrested for possession of child pornography; another for sexual assault POLK COUNTY – Two separate cases filed with the district attorney’s office this past week involve students and possible felony charges.

Daniel L. Klink, 19, Deer Park, faces a possible charge of possession of child pornography. Klink is listed as a student on the police report.

In another case, a 17-year-old Unity High School student faces a possible charge of sexual assault of a child.

Klink was arrested Monday, March 31, after Department of Justice and Department of Criminal Investigation officers executed a search warrant at the home of his parents, where he has been living.

Agents recovered video images containing sexually explicit images of child/children involved in sex acts, according to the complaint. The images were recovered from Klink’s computer. According to the report, Klink admitted to downloading child pornographic videos at his parents’ residence.

The 17-year-old Unity student is accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old female while at Unity School during the evening hours of March 31. According to the alleged victim, she was in the high school gym at about 5:15 p.m. when the 17-yearold approached her and groped her breasts over her shirt. She said she told him to stop but he wouldn’t for a few seconds. He made comments to her about wanting to have sex with her, according to the complaint. She then left and went to the middle school gym where she began to do pull-ups with other people. She said the 17-year-old followed her and while she was doing pull-ups, pulled down her pants, partially exposing her buttocks.

The 17-year-old admitted to the charges, according to police report, and was cooperative with police. – with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department

Clifford (Larry) Main, and attorney Ryan Benson are shown above during the recount, along with Helen Steffen who is setting out the requests for absentee ballots for the Town of Webb Lake. Some of the requests for absentee ballots were not signed and it was questioned whether or not they should have been sent to voters. The canvassers chose to count all 20 absentee ballots in question. However, Ryan Benson, attorney for Main, announced that they object to counting these ballots. Main has the right to take the issue to a appellant court. - Photo by Sherill Summer

Charges against Siren man dismissed SIREN – Charges against a 24-yearold, Siren man were dismissed on Wednesday, March 12. Mark E. Larson was charged with second—degree sexual assault with use of force when Mark E. Larson he allegedly forced a Siren woman into her bedroom and sexually assaulted her on Tuesday, June 5, 2007.

The Burnett County District Attorney, Ken Kutz, revealed that there was little evidence supporting the victim’s claim, resulting in a situation where it is the victim’s word against the defendant’s word. The defendant, on the other hand, had alibi witnesses to testify on his behalf.

In addition, Larson who is on probation for a felony possession of methamphetamine in Polk County, did not have his probation revoked. – Sherill Summer with information from the DA office and circuit court records

Burning permits now required says DNR CUMBERLAND — Burning permits are required as of April 4 when most of the snow has melted from forest and field.

Rural residents and visitors are reminded that burning permits are needed to burn leaves, brush and other woody debris.

The permits can be obtained from any Department of Natural Resources Service Center or Emergency Fire Warden. DNR burning permits are required in the Polk County townships of Lorain, Clam Falls, West Sweden, Sterling and portions of McKinley, Bone Lake, Luck townships north of Hwy. 48.

DNR burning permits are required in all of Washburn, Burnett and Sawyer counties. In the remainder of Barron and Polk counties check with local government officials as regulations vary greatly.

“These permits are especially important in the spring when low humidities, high winds, and dry leaves and grass provide ideal conditions for wildfires,” says forest ranger Jay Riewestaht.

Riewestahl also advises if you have burned a large debris pile please be certain that it is out before you leave it unattended. Fires can escapes from hot coals that have held over from a brush pile that was burned when the ground was snow covered a few weeks ago.

Burning permits in intensive forest protection areas are required before any outdoor burning is allowed, whenever the ground is not completely snow covered. The only exception to the permit requirement is for campfires used to cook food or warm the person. Broadcast burning (burning of material not in a pile) of areas greater than one acre and burn piles greater than 6’x6’x6’ must be inspected by personnel from the DNR before a permit can be issued.

Fire wardens Eastern Burnett County: Roosevelt: Wayne and Bobbie Boyd (G-Spot Bar and Grill); Dewey: Renee VanSelus, Art Swan, Lorraine Daniels.

Eastern Polk County: Lorain: Earl and Sharon Jensen; McKinley: Penny and Ken Schockman.. — from DNR Correction: The Leader’s headline on the top of page 3 last week, should have read “Bauer wins, Main and Lindeman returned, Engelhart defeated.” We apologize for the error.

Men injured in Cortec explosion doing well

by Regan Kohler SPOONER — Prognosis on the two Spooner men injured in the explosion at the Cortec Spray Technology Division has been good lately, according to updates from family, friends and professionals.

When a section of the chemical plant in Spooner exploded on the morning of March 18, Cortec employees Aaron Merchant and Cory LaBonte suffered from severe burns, with Merchant getting broken bones from the ceiling collapsing. Merchant has been receiving treatment at the Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, while LaBonte has been in the burn unit at Miller-Dwan in Duluth, Minn. Both men were listed in critical condition

for the first week or so, but as recently as last week, good results have been released.

Monday, April 7, Miller-Dwan media liaison Kim Kaiser said that LaBonte has been listed in fair condition since last week. Fair is a step up from severe, the condition in which LaBonte had been a couple weeks ago. LaBonte had received skin grafts and was in a drug-induced coma, but according to the Web site www.caringbridge.org, as of Sunday, April 6, he was awake and talking to people.

Merchant had had good results from his surgery and is awake now, according to the same Web site. Though he has been unable to speak from a tracheotomy, or throat surgery, his wife

said on the site that Merchant is doing well.

The men also received blood and plasma from a Red Cross drive on March 28 in Spooner.

Anyone interested in updates on the two can visit www.caringbridge.org and type in Merchant and LaBonte's full names in the search area.

As for the Cortec building, test results showed there was no contamination to the area. It is still cordoned off in the damaged area.

At a Spooner City Council meeting last Wednesday, Police Chief Bobby Andrea said a public debriefing on the incident will be Thursday, April 24, at 7 p.m. in city hall.

E-edition - this complete issue is online now. www.the-leader.net

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Ma Barker/ from page 1

the shores of Lake Fremsted, near Webster. It was stripped of clothing and an examination of the body disclosed that Dunlop had been shot three times at short range. A bloodstained woman’s glove was discovered not far from the body. Federal agents determined that Dunlop was killed by Fred Barker, one of Ma Barker’s four sons, and Alvin Karpis, inasmuch as they believed he had tipped them off to the police.

According to Karpis, however, Dunlop was killed by Jack Peifer, not by him and Freddie. They had often done jobs for Peifer and this was his way of returning the favor.

Lake Fremsted is a small lake, consisting of only 88 acres—the deepest part 22 feet. The year was very dry and the lake was more mud than water. Sheriff Charlie Saunders, coroner-undertaker Raymond Swedberg, and filling station owner Paul Connor drove out to the lake answering a call that there was a body floating in the lake. One of the party, Deputy Sheriff Broberg, who was first on the scene, put on hip waders and walked through the mud, finding the body, which was totally nude, shot five times in the right side. The moustache had been partially severed and left hanging.

Examination of the roadway disclosed the fact that the murderers had driven their car in on Old Hwy. 35, which travels 20 rods closer to the lake. After dragging the body to the edge of the lake, they backed the car out the entire distance and turned south on Hwy. 35. The plain imprint of four Goodyear tires led to the belief the tires were new. Officers believed the man was shot after the car was driven in on the old road as the deceased’s upper lip was split from cheek to cheek. Blood on the ground four inches deep indicated the victim was shot at that time. Pictures of Fred Barker and Alvin Karpis taken from a magazine were identified by John Sandberg and Elfred Anderson, station attendants, as the same pair that had purchased gas there.

The lecture is free and open to the public. - submitted

Three buildings in Siren will now be smoke free

by Sherill Summer SIREN - Even without a statewide smoking ban in Wisconsin, Siren has seen a wave of properties go smoke free lately. Main Street Café, Lodge Center Arena and Lilac Grove Apartments have all announced they are now smoke free. Each has explained the decision to go smoke free.

Main Street Café owner Connie Erickson described the progression of the café from smoking to nonsmoking.

Because the restaurant is so small, there was not room to divide the restaurant into smoking and nonsmoking sections.

Basically, for years, smoking was permitted throughout the restaurant.

That first changed last fall when the

Ma le t he r b oys d o t he dirt y work According to most accounts of Ma Barker’s life, she had a criminal reputation but likely never killed anyone herself.

“If Ma ever killed anyone, it was probably her loving man Arthur Dunlop, a billboard painter, who in 1932 ended up ventilated with bullets and dumped in a lake,” states one historian about the Burnett County murder. “Then again, maybe the boys did it, unmindful of Ma’s feelings, when they suspected Arthur of ‘ratting to the cops.’“ The free online encyclopedia wikipedia.com mistakenly lists the location of the 1932 murder involving Fred Barker and Alvin Karpis as taking place in “Lake Franstead, Minnesota.”

Karpis, in his autobiography, wrote “The most ridiculous story in the annals of crime is that Ma Barker was the mastermind behing the Karpis-

Barker gang...the legend only grew after her death. She wasn’t a leader of criminals or even a criminal herself...she knew we were criminals but her participation in our careers was limited to one function: when we traveled together, we moved as a mother and her sons. What could look more innocent?”

FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, in the book “The FBI In Action” said, “Ma Barker and her sons, and Alvin Karpis and his cronies, constituted the toughest gang of hoodlums the FBI ever has been called upon to eliminate. Looking over the record of these criminals, I was repeatedly impressed by the cruelty of their depredations…murder of a policeman …murder of two policemen ….machine gun murder of an innocent citizen who got in the way during a bank robbery …kidnapping and extortion…train robbery…mail robbery

...the protection of high police officials bought with tainted money…paroles bought.”

Many historians believe it was J. Edgar Hoover who launched the legend of Ma Barker, after the elderly woman was mistakenly killed by FBI agents during the bloody gun battle.

Ma died with her son, Freddie, in a famous four-hour shoot-out with the FBI at a hideout cottage in Florida on Jan. 16, 1935. She was manning a machine gun and ended up with one to three fatal bullets in her, according to various accounts. That's the FBI and Hollywood story. The counterversion has Ma stopping only one bullet--compared to Freddie's 14--and then committing suicide, while an embarrassed FBI took it from there. - Gary King with information from crimelibrary.com and wikipedia.com

Alvin Karpis, a member of the Ma Barker gang, and Fred Barker, were behind the shooting murder of Arthur Dunlop near Webster in 1932. The story made the front page of the Frederic Star, which initially reported the victim was John McTague a “noted underworld character of Minneapolis who recently jumped a $20,000 bond.” The facts at that point were uncertain, stated the article. - special photos

Smoke free in Siren

No longer will smoking be allowed on the Lodge Center Arena's property.

–Photos by Sherill Summer ashtrays were removed from the tables.

Anyone who wanted to smoke had to ask for an ashtray, and Erickson said that smoking in the restaurant then

The Lilac Grove Apartments in Siren has gone smoke-free. At right, a sign outside of the Main Street Café announcing that the café is now smoke free.

went in streaks. If someone asked to smoke, then many customers asked to smoke.

Otherwise, there was little smoking.

Erickson decided to make the café completely smoke free on March 1, and so far, she says, there has not really been any complaints from the customers.

The Lodge Center Arena never allowed smoking inside the arena itself, but did have designated smoking areas outdoors in the past. At one time the smoking area was just outside the main doors. Last year the designated area was moved to the north side of the building so that there would not be smoking just outside the main doors.

As of April 1, however, even smoking area will be removed and all of the property will be smoke free. Making this decision was a 12-member hockey association. Marybeth Richison, one of the board members of the hockey association said that the reason why they

made the property smoke free was to set a better example for the youth involved in hockey and to promote a healthy lifestyle.

The Lilac Grove Apartments that are being built behind Fourwinds Market is not yet smoke free since they are not finished. But Gary Valley, director of housing for catholic charities Bureau who is building the 14-unit assisted living apartments, has said that the idea to make Lilac Grove Apartments smoke free started before construction began.

This decision was not finalized, however, until recently.

Valley says that catholic charities have thought about trying to make other buildings that are pre-existing smoke free, but have had problems deciding exactly how to do this once smoking is permitted in a building. Valley said that the Lilac Grove Apartments was a good opportunity to designate a building smoke free from the beginning. He went on to say that the majority of the residents living in the various buildings are nonsmokers. Having a building smoke free would save money when reconditioning an apartment for a new tenant once a smoking resident has left.

The aesthetics of the grounds would be improved without ashtrays as well.

Cheering on these recent decisions to go smoke free is Dianna Manning, Burnett County Public Health Educator, who also heads up the Burnett County Tobacco-Free Coalition. For more information on these businesses going smoke free, contact health and human service department at 715-349-7600.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

P O L K

New case filed against 23 supervisors, finance meeting issues go and come

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Polk County’s days in court will continue for awhile. There are at least two active cases involving the sale of Golden Age Manor. In addition, one meeting notice claim against the finance committee has closed while another may be starting.

Golden Age Manor The completion of the sale of the county nursing home in Amery is on

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

GAM appeal filed

hold. Judge Eugene Harrington ruled on March 26 that the county had the right to sell and stayed his opinion until an appeal could be filled. The sale of the home was to take place at midnight March 31.

Notice of appeal by Jason Whitley, representing the original plaintiffs, and by the Teamsters Union, representing some of the employees, was filed with the court on April 2. The appeals have now been filed with the Court of Appeals and a case number has been assigned. According to county sources, the lawyers are talking about a date for future actions.

Local resident James Drabek has now filed a civil action against all 23 present members of the county board, charging in part that the actions on the sale of GAM should have been held in open

Finance committee notice issues Last November, five members of the finance committee were charged with violating the public notice statutes, claiming that they acted on a resolution to seek a buyer for Golden Age Manor without properly noticing the action on the finance committee agenda. That case has been resolved, according to court records. Supervisor Gerald Newville, finance chair at the time of the meeting,

be joining 14 returning board members for the start of the new two-year term.

The main task for the day will be electing the county board chair and naming members to the 10 governing committees.

With each of the committees losing at least one member and two committees losing half its members, there will likely be a large amount of shuffling. Each supervisor sits on two committees.

Several committees face challenges this year. The finance committee will be looking at recommending budgets for the departments while working within

a 2-percent levy increase cap and the possibility of reduced revenue from some sources. The personnel committee will be negotiating new union contracts for 2009-2010 while trying to reach a settlement with one union on the contract for 2007-08. The property committee is charged with finding solutions to the problems developing at the highway building and with creating a new plan for the Amery-Dresser Trail.

Some had thought that one committee, the Golden Age Manor Board, would be eliminated. But with status of the sale of the nursing home in Amery

now in the hands of the Court of Appeals judges, the GAM board will continue to operate. The board will need at least one new member from the county board and a new public member.

Under a rule change adopted by the county board last August, this seat must be held by a person with some professional skills in nursing or similar a field.

This appointment is listed on the agenda.

Each of the committees will elect a chair at its first meeting over the coming month.

including human services and child support. In addition, these crimes add to the caseload for the sheriff’s office, the district attorney, and the courts.

County board meetings often start with a presentation on a community concern.

The highway construction projects for 2008 are the first step in the highway department’s six-year plan to bring all 330 miles of county roads up to good shape and to keep them in good condition. The first year will see some work on 43 miles of the road system, with projects including total rebuilds, resurfacing, rerouting for safety and preparation for 2009 construction. Funding for the highway construction projects was approved last fall as part of the budget, and the department has the needed funds in hand. One of the current reconstructions, CTH N from 170th Street west of Luck to Cushing, is an aided

project with federal funds paying 80 percent of the cost.

Highway costs are rising rapidly, according to highway commissioner Steve Warndahl. Construction material costs for asphalt have increased over 40 percent from 2006, when the plan was proposed, to 2008. The road oil cost price is up 59 percent, delivered. Gravel is up almost 50 percent. Even the price of line painting after the work is completed is up 38 percent. The 2008 projects cost $180,600 more than projected in 2006 due to these increases.

The county should have energy savings and reduced operational costs if a capital projects resolution is passed. The county would borrow funds to complete a number of projects at two of the county’s four major complexes, the government center and the justice center.

The county would borrow up to

$345,000 to do the work, with the idea that yearly savings would exceed the annual loan repayment costs. Numbers presented in a cash flow analysis estimate that the 2009 debt payment of $34,600 on the projects would result in energy savings of $29,600 and other savings of $10,000 for a total 2009 savings of $39,600, a gain of $5,000 for the county.

The board will also consider resolutions to reauthorize the renewable energy committee and approve the next step in establishing a multicounty consortium to serve the long-term care needs of residents in the region. Appointments include the reappointment of Dr. David Markert to the human services board and appointing a new public member to the Golden Age Manor Governing Board.

session. This suit was filed Monday, April 7, and no court dates have been assigned.

Meanwhile, GAM opened on April 1 under county management with the county employees still in place. The county board will appoint members to the GAM governing board which will continue to function.

has been found “guilty due to no contest” and a court assessment of $940 has been paid. The cases against the other four committee members, Mick Larsen, Larry Jepsen, Gary Bergstrom and Neil Johnson, have been dismissed.

Now a new complaint against the finance committee has been filed by Supervisor Robert Blake who claims that the committee did not properly notice an action at its March 19 meeting relating to the job description of the finance director. The charge was investigated by the sheriff’s department. The results of that investigation were turned over to the district attorney’s office which assigned the case to special prosecutor Timothy Laux, who has started to review possible charges.

New Polk board organizes April 15

Day meeting elects officers and committees

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – The Polk County Board will hold one of its few daytime meetings next Tuesday, April 15.

The meeting, which opens with the supervisors taking their oaths of office, will start at 9 a.m. at the government center building in Balsam Lake and may take all day. Nine new supervisors will

2008 highway projects up for approval

Few other resolutions for April board

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – The Polk County Board will have other business besides organizing at its meeting next Tuesday.

The supervisors will act on four resolutions including one to approve the highway construction plans for the coming year. They will also act on two appointments to county committees. The meeting, which starts at 9 a.m. this month, includes a period for public comment.

First up, before any action is taken, the board will hear a presentation on sexual abuse awareness presented by the Community Referral Agency. Sexual abuse is a serious problem that affects many area families. Many county units are involved in helping the victims,

Polk-Burnett County Farmers Union meeting date set for May

LUCK – The Polk-Burnett County Farmers Union will hold a meeting Saturday, May 10, at 11 a.m. at the Oakwood Inn in Luck. Any Farmers Union member or anyone interested in

Farmers Union is invited to attend the meeting.

Janet Nelson, Wisconsin Farmers Union District 1 Director, will serve as the main speaker for the meeting. Other

orders of business include election of officers and a National Farmers Union convention update.

The Oakwood Inn is located at 10 Robertson Road in Luck. If you have

any questions, please contact the WFU State Office or Christine Wilson at 715268-9416. – from PBCFU

United Pioneer Home celebrates 55 years of caring The United Pioneer Home in Luck is celebrating 55 years of caring. They have found a staff photo from the late 1950s and we are not sure who everyone is. If you have any information on who is in this picture please contact The United Pioneer Home, 210 E. Park Ave., Luck, WI 54853, 715-472-2164. – Photo submitted

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

New board brings diversity

Nine new Polk County supervisors

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – The nine new supervisors joining the Polk County Board of Supervisors are a diverse group who are bringing a wide range of backgrounds and experiences with them when they takes their seats next Tuesday.

The group includes four persons elected to open seats: Bob Dueholm, Joan Peterson, Dean Johansen and Kathryn Keinholz; and five who defeated incumbents: Herschel Brown, James Edgell, Brian Masters, Ken Sample and Patricia Messicci.

There are three women joining the board, making a total of five, an increase of two from the prior board.

(One woman replaced another woman.) The new members may be slightly older than their predecessors (we did not ask), but one member pointed out that there are now several who are probably in their 40s, joining the one member in his early 20s.

Five of the nine have lived in Polk County their entire lives, with short times away for the military or jobs. Four chose Polk County as their home, including two who moved here after retirement.

Five are still working full time, including three accountants, a schoolteacher and a business consultant. Some former careers of the new members include radio announcer, state highway patrol, tavern operator, farmer, trucker, production supervisor and finance officer for a large corporation. Some have worked for

Johansen

Keinholz

Brown

The nine new members of the Polk County board joined their 14 returning colleagues Tuesday for the first of two days of orientation for their new role as supervisors. Day one started with all the supervisors introducing themselves and concluded with a tour of county facilities. Their Thursday meeting will include a chance for the new supervisors to meet department heads and committee chairs as they decide what committees they would like to serve on. The new county board takes office next Tuesday, April 15, in an all-day session starting at 9 a.m. – Photo by Gregg Westigard AT&T, Coors Beer and Honeywell.

The new board will have 11 members working full time plus several working part time.

There is a variety of previous elected experience.

Including past and current positions, there is a town board chair, two village board presidents and two school board members. One served two terms in the state assembly. One ran for Congress.

This is the fourth election in a row where the Polk

Messicci

Peterson

Edgell

County Board has had a large turnover in members.

The nine new members join 14 returning supervisors, only three of whom have served for more than two terms.

The senior board member has served 4-1⁄2 terms, the next 3-1⁄2 terms and the next three terms. Five have finished two terms, and six are finishing their initial term.

Sample

Masters

Dueholm

B U R N E T T C O U N T Y H E A D L I N E S

Siren/Webster Rotary offered challenge grant for the Crooked Lake Park Band shell SIREN - The Siren/Webster Rotary Club is thrilled to announce it has been offered a challenge grant by three Bremer Bank branches. Frederic, Siren, and Danbury branches have challenged the Rotary Club to raise money for their band shell project in Crooked Lake Park. Bremer Bank will match dollar for dollar up to a maximum of $3,000.

This means Rotary potentially could end up with a total of $6,000 towards the project. Donations from March 24 – May 31, will go towards the challenge grant.

For people who have visited the park or have driven by, they can see that the band shell is almost complete.

However, the fundraising the project is not. Expenses for the project still have to be paid. Rotarians are asking for

community support for this project.

There are several ways you can help to support the band shell. 1.You can buy a brick with a customized message.

You can call Joe Wacek at 349-5724. 2.

Provide an outright donation.

Donations can be mailed to the Rotary Club at PO Box 240, Siren, WI 54872. 3.

Participate at the Rotary fundraiser at the upcoming Siren Youth Hockey Expo. There will be three different 50/50 drawings, silent auctions for quality baskets, and also silent auctions for unique sports and entertainment memorabilia.

Items will include “Hannah Montana,” “Caddyshack” and much more! Look for Rotary when you first enter the ice rink area on your right. - submitted

SIREN - Martin Johnson III, 36, Shell Lake, has been in the Burnett County jail since his arrest early Saturday morning after being accused of biting, choking and holding a knife to a throat and threatening to kill the victim if the police came.

Police received a call for help with few details at 1:16 a.m. When police called back, they could only reach voice mail, so police were dispatched to where the phone call originated.

Since the 911 call originated from the house, police entered when no one answered after knocking on the door.

Inside, two persons were found under a blanket; one with a large welt on the forehead. A kitchen knife was also found, and a cell phone was found in a toilet.

The victim with a welt on the head

alleged that a fight broke out after a night of d r i n k i n g t o g e t h e r.

Johnson was then arrested as the main aggressor.

Once in custody, marijuana was found in Martin Johnson III his possession and charges of possession of marijuana were added to charges of domestic battery, disorderly conduct and probation violations. – Sherill Summer with information from the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department.

GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg Music Festival Society begins its 2008 concert series on Saturday, April 19, with a vocal soloist performance by soprano Dorothy Maddison. Maddison will perform from 7-9 p.m. at the Faith Lutheran Church, at 421 S. Russell St. in Grantsburg.

A professor of voice and opera at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va., Maddison studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London and was the full-time soloist with the Stadttheater of Dobeln, Germany. Maddison graduated from St. Olaf College and has performed throughout Europe and at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Accompanying Maddison will be Minnesota Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra flutist Jane Estenson Strauman. Strauman, a member of the

MMSO for 25 years and currently a freelance musician in the Twin Cities, has performed with Maddison in concerts in Brazil.

Lori Piitz, who is with the piano faculty at James Madison University, will also be performing with Maddison.

Piitz was a pianist for the Augsburg Philharmonic Orchestra and has performed in music festivals in the U.S., Canada and Europe.

Maddison’s performance is sponsored by the Grantsburg Music Festival Society which is dedicated to bringing music to our communities. Everyone is invited to attend. Admission to this event is by donation.

The next Grantsburg Music Festival Society Event will be a weekend lineup of music Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings during Big Gust Days in Grantsburg June 6 – 8. - submitted

Shell Lake man accused of death threat

Grantsburg Music Festival Society begins its concert series

Safe Ride fundraiser this Sunday WEBSTER – The public is welcome to attend the annual spring fling fundraiser for Burnett County’s Safe Ride program that will be held this Sunday, April 13, from 4 to 10 p.m. at the Black & Orange in Webster.

The Safe Ride program, sponsored by the Burnett County Tavern League, has saved Burnett County more than $50,000 and provided safer roads since its beginning in late 2006 due to a decrease in OWI cases, according to local program chairman Kris Peterson. Safe Ride is “an

innovative approach developed to provide and promote alternative transportation services allowing individuals…to get home safely without driving themselves or riding with an impaired driver.”

Sunday’s fundraiser is essential to helping to keep the program going.

There will be fun and games with music by the DJ Fat Cat. “Come and help support our Safe Ride program,” Peterson noted. – with submitted information

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

L e a d e r

We b Po l l

Last week’s poll results

Total votes: 74

My heating bill so far this winter is:

14%

10 votes

12%

9 votes

26%

0 to $400 $400 to $800

19 votes $800 to $1,200

35%

26 votes $1,200 to $1,600

14%

10 votes Higher

I expect to retire at age:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

55 to 59 60 to 64 65 to 69 70 to 74 When I expire

To take part in our Web poll, go to www.theleader.net and scroll down to the lower left hand corner of the screen

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M

First, it prevents tragedies

week, as part of an editorial on strengthening OWI laws, it was noted L ast how successful the Safe Ride program has been in Polk County, sponsored

by the Polk County Tavern League.

This week it’s appropriate to note success of the Burnett County Tavern League’s Safe Ride program, which holds its annual spring fundraiser at the Black and Orange in Webster this Sunday. (See separate story.)

The Burnett County Sheriff’s Department estimated a 44-percent decrease in the number of OWI citations the department handed out during the first four months of last year compared to the year before. That’s right after the Safe Ride program was implemented in that county.

The Safe Ride program basically offers rides home to people who may have had too much to drink to drive safely. Tavern patrons who feel the need for the service can request it - or the bartender can offer it if they see the need.

It’s difficult to estimate cost savings to the taxpayer - but it’s substantial over a year’s time. Funds to operate the program come from citation fees and matching funds from the community.

Support your Safe Ride program. There’s an investment where you see clear results in the cost to taxpayers - and first and foremost - the potential for preventing tragedy.

Polk taxes - high or low?

the past two years Jeff Peterson has kept an insightful diary - or blog FHeorofwas issues he encountered as a Polk County supervisor. one of 23 representatives on the board, but the only one we know

of who embraced new technology to keep voters informed.

With his departure from the board, we lose a unique look into the workings of the board that only a Web site like this one can offer.

In one of his last postings, Peterson focused on information passed out at a property committee meeting by supervisor Pat Schmidt. Information from the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance - a frequently quoted organization in this newspaper - which outlined counties and their tax levies, equalized values and tax rates from a recent-year period.

“Pat said she'd been hearing from a lot of people that Polk County has the highest property taxes in the state,” noted Peterson. “She's not the only one; I've heard the same thing twice in the last week, once from a constituent who called my home and once from the person who changes the oil in my vehicles.

Until I saw this spreadsheet, I didn't have any evidence to refute what they were saying, though I had a suspicion it wasn't true. And it's not.”

Peterson said when you look at tax rates - the fraction of your assessed value that you are required to pay in property taxes - Polk County ranks 48th out of 72 counties with a rate of $4.06 (per $1,000 property value). Menominee County is highest at $8.43.

Property-rich counties, Peterson noted, tend to have the lowest rates, with Vilas's $1.54 at the bottom of the list. (A glance at Burnett County’s tax rate, for example, shows it’s $2.77 per $1,000.)

Former county supervisor Rick Scoglio’s comments in response to Peterson were posted on Peterson’s blog. “Statistics can be manipulated to reflect anything the messenger desires,” Scoglio wrote. “The facts remain: Polk County had the second largest levy increase statewide, the third highest tax rate increase, plus Unity and Amery (my area) had two of the largest school district increases.” He noted that Menominee County is an anomoly being entirely a reservation and that “50 percent of our taxes are paid for by riparian landowners, which also skew the total picture seeing that they, for the most part, are neither residents nor voters nor in the same income bracket as the lowly Polk County resident.”

Peterson followed up by saying it was not his intent to manipulate the statistics. “I was only trying to point out that it’s false to say Polk County is the ‘highest taxed county.’ That just isn’t true, yet it gets repeated over and over.

I’m not proud of the fact we’ve had such steep increases in rates in recent years, but the fact remains that owning property in Polk County is cheaper than owning the same property in 47 of the other 72 counties in the state.”

Great dialogue. Outstanding Web site.

W h e re t o Wr i t e

President George Bush 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 president@whitehouse.gov

Governor Jim Doyle 115 East, State Capitol Bldg.

Mailing address: P.O. Box 7863 Madison, WI 53707 wisgov@mail.state.wi.us Congressman David Obey 7th Congressional District 2462 Rayburn Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20515 or Wisconsin office: Federal Building Wausau, WI 54401 (715) 842-5606 Rep. Ann Hraychuck 28th Assembly District State Capitol, P.O. Box 8942 Madison, WI 53708 Phone: 608-267-2365 Toll free: 888-529-0028 In-District 715-485-3362 rep.hraychuck@legis.state.wi.us

Rep. Frank Boyle 73rd Assembly District Room 221 North State Capitol P.O. Box 8952 Madison 53708 E-mail: Rep.Boyle@legis.state.wi.us

Senator Sheila Harsdorf 10th Senate District State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 (608) 266-7745 • (715) 2321390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us

Rep. Mary Hubler 75th Assembly District Room 7 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8952 Madison, WI 53708 or 1966 21-7/8 St. (Hawthorne Lane), Rice Lake 54868 (715) 234-7421• (608) 266-2519 rep.hubler@legis.state.wi.us

U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold SDB 40, Rm. 1 Washington, D.C. 20510 or 1600 Aspen Commons Middleton, WI 53562-4716 (608) 828-1200 senator@feingold.senate.gov

Senator Robert Jauch 25th Senate District Room 19 South State Capitol P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 E-mail: Sen.Jauch@legis.state.wi.us

U.S. Senator Herb Kohl 330 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510 senator_kohl@kohl.senate.gov Congressman Ron Kind 3rd Congressional District 1713 Longwirth Office Bdg. Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-5506 888-442-8040 (toll-free) ron.kind@mail.house.gov

Views expressed on these pages do not necessarily represent those of the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association management or board

T h e

Speechwriter speaks

hose who have read any of the thicket of books written on the Kennedy T administration of the early ‘60s knows the name Theodore C. Sorensen.

In fact, Sorensen wrote a few of them himself. He worked for approximately 10 years as Kennedy’s advisor, helping him pen “Profiles in Courage,” and ironing out his inaugural speech, although he gives entire credit to Kennedy for the famous “Ask not what your country can do for you...” phrase.

Sorensen spoke recently during the National Newspaper Association’s 47th Government Affairs Conference. During the conference, he admitted that he was just a few weeks away from his 80th birthday and publication of his memoirs.

His comments might prove to be interesting to many in this day and age when people are longing for another JFK. Sorensen’s comments, as reported in the NNA’s own newspaper, seem somewhat simplistic, but pure in their idealism. Having been to more than 70 countries, he said he has been to several where the government and the press have been in bed together.

“Believe me, you would not want to be a newspaper reader in any one of those countries,” he said. “It’s much healthier to have the press free to criticize, to hold the government accountable, than to be embraced by the government.”

Reflecting on how the U.S. is faring in its attempt to bring democracy to Iraq, Sorensen said, “Democracy has to come from within, from the bottom up. It has to include not simply regime change or free and formal elections. It must include true opposition parties, including opposition press. It must also include an independent judiciary. Political problems cannot be solved by military means,” he said.

Interesting stuff. Speech writers eventually get to give the speeches. - with information from nna.org

I n t e r ! C o u n t y

All editorials on this page by editor Gary King

L e a d e r

i s

a

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

Ta x t r end It has come to our attention that property values have been on a downward trend, but our property taxes are going up. Our question is why? What is the justification?

If you look at all the homes for sale in Polk County it is no wonder there are no buyers. If the taxes keep going up as they have been, there will be a lot more homes for sale, plus all the foreclosures.

It is criminal that people are losing their homes due to not being able to keep up with the taxes.

Eleanor Carlson and Kevin Iverson Frederic

F iddl ing w it h G A M lo s s e s On March 5, the Leader published a banner headline, $588,832 county shortfall tied to GAM. Two actions by the finance committee/finance department contributed to this shortfall.

1. The finance department did not transfer payment of the 2005 losses until 2007 after an August 2007 meeting, nine months after the transfer was authorized by the county board. I read about

L e a d e r F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r

the August meeting in another county newspaper, not the Leader.

2.

Golden Age Manor receives state/federal revenues to help the county nursing home compensate for the under reimbursed Medicaid patients.

Because $140,416 of the 2006 state revenue was received in April 2007, the auditors did not attribute that sum to the 2006 balance sheet.

What does this mean to the public?

It confuses county board members as well as the public when not adequately explained. It magnifies the losses of GAM in a single year (2007) when certain board members were able to push through their personal agendas to sell.

Actual 2005 and 2006 losses total $448,416, not the $588,832, if the $140,416 were included in the 2006 numbers. I call it fiddling with the numbers.

The new county board contains a number who practice accounting. I don’t know if that is good or bad for those of us who try to follow what the county government is actually doing.

Let’s hope the new board sets aside personal agendas and looks at all issues with an open mind.

In the case of GAM, it provides a service to the elderly that cannot be

compared to private nursing homes.

Remember that the latter are able to arrange not to admit the higher-cost patients, which is reflected in the higher percentage of Medicaid patients at GAM. Up to now, GAM has been the nursing home of last resort where the poor can still get care and not be turned away.

always be one of the best moments of my political career.

Mark Pettis Former State Rep. 28th Assembly District Hertel

More letters, next page

JoAnn Hallquist Town of Lincoln

C h a rl to n H e s t o n With the passing of Charlton Heston, I would like to share my experience of meeting him with you.

I was awarded the NRA Wisconsin Defender of Freedom Award by Heston.

My wife and I found Heston to be a genuine gentleman as well as a person dedicated to protecting our freedoms. I asked Heston if he would please sign my plaque and he said, “Representative Pettis, do you really want me to write on such a nice-looking plaque?” (You can see his signature on the plaque.)

Heston later told me that I have one of the only Defender of Freedom Awards with his name on it. The day my wife Joey and I spent time with one of America’s most famous people will

Area Ne ws at a Glance Mattison files claim BARRON COUNTY - Brian Mattison, Barron County’s former highway commissioner, has filed a notice of claim against the county and its administrator, Duane Hebert. The claims could result in a multimillion-dollar settlement to Mattison. The county’s executive committee met in closed session recently to consider what course of action to take in reaction to the claim, but no official direction was given once the committee reconvened in open session. According to the claim, Hebert and county government allegedly broke their release and retirement agreement with Mattison by continuing to make “disparaging remarks” to the press about the former highway commissioner even after signing an agreement to refrain from that kind of behavior. The agreement between Barron County and Mattison, which was signed in late December and went into effect in early January, states: “Any announcement, notice or press release relating to the separation of employment of Employee (Mattison) shall be that he retired from his position as highway commissioner,” according to the document.

“Employee shall refrain from making disparaging remarking about the county, and Barron County and county officials shall not make disparaging remarks about Employee in his capacity as highway commissioner. Any future announcement, notice or press release by county relating to the state audit or potential repayment of monies shall not refer to the Employee by name or position, but reference the highway department.” Mattison and his legal council cite news stories published in the Barron-News Shield, the Chetek Alert, the Rice Lake Chronotype and the Eau Claire Leader after the agreement had taken effect as evidence of Hebert’s, and the county’s, deviance from that contract.

The claim of notice states that Mattison was 54 years old when he retired, thus he lost seven years of earnings, equating to approximately $490,000, and other retirement benefits. Other damages alleged in the claim include defamation, injury to reputation, emotional distress and a malicious disregard for Mattison’s rights.

Mattison’s legal action further requests $1 million in punitive damages against Hebert. Mattison served as Polk County’s highway commissioner before taking a job with Barron County. - with information from Barron County News-Shield

Community landmark named CUMBERLAND - As though guided by destiny, the name of this city’s expanded and remodeled library will honor a local humanitarian, Thomas St. Angelo, who was exceptionally devoted to books.

Indeed, this respected citizen’s evolvement as a highly educated public servant is credited to the fact that he was a prodigious reader who satisfied his curiosity and search for knowledge in books of all kinds. Accordingly, longtime resident Clarence Capra remembers that St. Angelo, best known as a state assemblyman, often carried a bag of books when he left home. “If a question came up, he found the answer in his books,” Capra reported. - Cumberland Advocate School referendum defeated BRUCE - Electors in the Bruce School District defeated, 611 to 481, a referendum seeking voters’ approval to exceed state revenue limits by $300,000 a year for five years for the purpose of maintaining school facilities, purchasing buses and upgrading technology. Bruce District Administrator Deb Brown has provided district residents with information at meetings held in the district. Among things she has pointed out is that the total owed on the building remodeling debt is $957,855. The debt will be paid off on April 1, 2011. The district has made cuts of over $800,000 which include laying off 3.5 aides; reducing cafeteria staff from eight to six and hours of remaining staff; reducing bus routes and drivers from 10 to seven; reducing the number of janitorial employees receiving benefits by hiring part-time staff; laying off a special education and a business education teacher; reducing middle school from seven to five through retirements and reassignments; not replacing a retiring staff member who taught keyboarding, health, science and physical education by assigning his duties to current staff members; reducing the nurse, one science position and the elementary art position to less than half-time positions; and reducing guidance positions from two down to one. - Ladysmith News

Sells stolen parts on eBay

ROBERTS - A Roberts woman will spend two years in federal prison after she pled guilty to stealing home security parts from her employer and then selling them

on eBay. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Western Wisconsin, Sherry La Tourneau, 32, was sentenced on Friday after pleading guilty to the interstate sale of stolen goods on Feb. 6. Officials with the U.S. Attorney’s Office say that from August 1999 - July 23, 2004, La Tourneau stole parts for home security systems from GE Security in North St. Paul, Minn., where she worked as a computer support technician. At the time of the crime, La Tourneau lived at a Division Street address in River Falls. La Tourneau received approximately $93,000 for the parts, but the loss to the company was around $450,000. The FBI, along with the Ramsey County, Minn., Sheriff’s Department and the River Falls Police Department all participated in the investigation. -rivertowns.net Faces felony charges PINE CITY, Minn. - The Brook Park man responsible for hitting his girlfriend with a snowmobile was charged March 19 in Pine County District Court with two counts of felony criminal vehicular operation resulting in great bodily harm and two counts of DWI. The incident that happened at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Feb. 16 left Wendy Marie Koffler, also of Brook Park, with two amputated feet and brain damage. According to the criminal complaint, Jeffrey Paul Dale, 47, called 911 and stated that he had struck his live-in girlfriend with a snowmobile while she was walking on Cross Park Road in Brook Park. Dale informed Pine County Dispatch that Koffler was unconscious and bleeding from the nose and head.

Dale told officers from the Minnesota State Patrol that he had consumed a couple of drinks. Dale further stated that he and Koffler had an argument while at their shared residence, and she had then left on foot. Dale stated that he got on his snowmobile in an attempt to find Koffler but did not see her until the last second, when he hit his brakes. Dale said he fell off his snowmobile, hurt his shoulder and lost consciousness. He stated that when he woke up he administered first aid and then contacted 911. A blood sample obtained from Dale was sent to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Laboratories in St. Paul for analysis and revealed that Dale had a blood alcohol concentration of .08. Dale is scheduled to appear in court on April 29 at 1:30 p.m. - Pine City Pioneer

Referendum defeated RICE LAKE - Rice Lake School District voters soundly defeated a $29 million building referendum when they went to the polls on Tuesday, April 1. The referendum, which would have enabled construction of a new middle school in the northwestern part of the city, was rejected 3,051-1,467, or by 68 to 32 percent. Rice Lake School Superintendent Paul Vine said the school will continue to work toward a solution to its building needs.

“Although the outcome of the vote is very disappointing, and I think particularly for our students, faculty and staff, we respect the will of the community and understand that we need to continue to listen and to learn,” said Vine. - Rice Lake Chronotype Farm will be largest RICE LAKE - Norswiss Farms in the town of Stanfold plans to nearly triple its dairy herd to over 3,000 cows and has applied to the state for a wastewater permit. The Department of Natural Resources is seeking comments on the plan before final approval of a permit, which will be good for five years. With the expansion, Norswiss will become the largest dairy farm in Barron County. The request prompted the DNR to prepare an environmental assessment. The state has made a preliminary decision that an environmental impact statement will not be required.

Norswiss is about three miles west of Rice Lake at 1563 19th Ave. It now has about 1,204 milking and dry cows, and 95 replacement animals. The farm plans to have 3,300 milking and dry cows and 300 heifers. The increased number of animals would require construction of additional facilities, including new manure systems and a new freestall barn that would house 2,400 milking cows. Also planned is a 72stall rotary milking parlor to milk 2,700 cows three times a day. All new construction is expected to be completed in October, with the herd increase expected to begin the following month. Manure at Norswiss is currently directed to a 750,000-gallon anaerobic digester. It is used to generate methane gas, which is then used to power a 750-kilowatt generator owned by Dairyland Power Cooperative. The undigested solids are pressed dry and used as bedding. The liquid is collected in the manure storage facility and spread on about 2,150 acres of cropland. - Rice Lake Chronotype

c o o p e r a t i v e ! o w n e d n e w s p a p e r

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

A m y Go o d m a n My impression is that Polk County is a much more diverse place than ever before.

Therefore, I congratulate the InterCounty Leader when it acknowledges that diversity by publishing articles, announcements and letters to the editor that express a full range of opinion, whether those ideas emanate from the left or from the right.

A free and complete discussion of ideas is vital to our democracy. Had this nation had such a discussion before going to war with a country that had nothing to do with 9-11 and was completely contained militarily, we would be much better off today.

Both in her writing and her radio show, Amy Goodman provides us, as a nation and as a community, with such an opportunity. An opportunity to critically examine important issues which can either be supported or refuted by evidence.

Each of us has opinions, ideas and prejudices formed by life’s experiences, and agreement is not the issue. What is important is the ability to talk to each other in a civil, respectful and intelligent way, so that, at the very least, we can have a forum, which explores these critical issues such as taxation, the war in Iraq and governance in general. It’s to the Leader that we look to provide us with that forum and it is within the pages of the Leader that we come together and see ourselves as a community. Without this forum our ideas are limited by talking only with those who agree with us and echo the same sentiments.

In my opinion, Ms. Goodman is a much-needed counter-balance to what can only be described as propaganda coming from the White House.

Propaganda designed to convince us that the war in Iraq was vital to our very survival, which it wasn’t, and propaganda to convince us that this war was just and noble, which it isn’t.

So there, I’ve had my two cents worth of ranting and I thank the Leader for that; and I thank the Leader for not suppressing the Amy Goodman column.

Doug Gray St. Croix Falls

M y p ri o ri ti e s On April 15, 2008, I will sit on my first Polk County Board. My priorities will be a balanced budget and debt reduction.

It doesn’t matter what anyone says, thinks or what kind of twist they put on it, Wisconsin comes up in the top 10 most taxed population in the United States.

The U.S. and state economy has tanked and is creating enormous financial burdens on our citizens. The working and retired segments of our population are being hit the hardest. Rent, mortgage payments, heating, gas, food prices and property taxes have stretched the home budgets to the max.

The Wisconsin state budget is also in trouble. Wisconsin has a revenue shortfall and not enough money in reserves to cover expenditures. The lack of funds by the state promises to be an ongoing saga.

The lack of planning by the Wisconsin state government will without a doubt have a direct effect on our local governments. The state at some point will have to make some choices, make cuts in funding or impose more taxes. Either way this will affect all of us. Our state representatives have vowed not to raise taxes. If the state cuts funding it will directly affect Polk County’s revenues for all of our programs. We can’t ignore these obvious oncoming signs of trouble.

If we are not prepared for these cuts in funding, you guessed it ... more taxes at the local level to cover our commitments.

We must take this challenge very seriously. Polk County must get its finances in order! Borrowing money and raising taxes should not be a consideration. We must cut waste and find ways to better our communities with fewer tax dollars.

This will require creative thinking and open minds. Everyone needs to get on board. I firmly believe there are better times ahead for all of us, but we need to prepare ourselves for the short-term problems ahead. The citizens of Polk County

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r

need to get involved with ideas and contact their local elected officials.

Herschel Brown Frederic

A m en In answer to Pastor Merrill Olson’s letter, titled “One Truth,”: Amen! In this day of “watering down” every belief so that we will not offend anyone, will we eventually be open to everything, so that nothing is firm and true?

Sherman Lillie and Sue Ames-Lillie Luck

W h o c ar e s ?

President Bush used the fifth anniversary of the start of the war in Iraq to make a case for staying in a conflict that in all likelihood will have many more anniversaries. Bush acknowledges wars cost, but refused to call it quits. He declared the conflict noble, necessary and just. (Bulloney) Neither the United States nor any other nation is any more secure today than it was five years ago. Iraq was no threat to us then and is no direct threat to us today.

All we have to show for the war is 4,000-plus Americans killed and many more thousands wounded or injured.

Tens of thousands of Iraqi lives lost and many, many more injured. And billions of our dollars spent (thrown away) for what?

The White House has ignored domestic affairs in order to accomplish what the Bush administrations ill-defined goals that have a terrible effect here and abroad.

Seventy-six percent of Americans believe that this administration is wrong in keeping our troops in Iraq. The military commanders need to speak the truth about the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan, but when they do, they end their careers.

Vice president Dick Cheney’s comment about whether the White House cares that most Americans do not support the war.

His comment, so. In other words he does not give a hoot what American people think. The White House press secretary said that Bush and Cheney do not chase popularity polls. Nice people in the White House, right? Wrong.

Let us hope and pray that perhaps in the coming election we will have some persons elected that can see beyond their noses and get our troops home where they belong.

I have always supported the troops, but I believe the best support we can give them is to bring them home now.

Jack Rued, Balsam Lake

Ta k e t he lo g o ut I would appreciate a chance to comment on some statements in the Anderson Report – March 28, Leader, and also the author himself.

First – It is slander to accuse Bush and Cheney of kidnapping and torture? How did those prisoners end up in Guantonamo Bay? Swim there? They were kidnapped and put in that prison – and Bush alone had the authority to do that. We saw pictures of the torture used in Iraqi prisons, and Bush still has his waterboarding. The Democrats did not have the votes – or the guts, to defeat it. In my opinion – everyone who supports waterboarding should be subjected to it at least once a day until the end of the Iraqi invasion. Maybe minds would clear up.

No torture – eh?

To say there is no connection between Bush and the lower level personnel at Bagram Air Base, is in itself a big lie. Bush put those killers there and was responsible for everything they did and the top man deserves, and gets, the blame. An example; our regiments staged a military demonstration on the area parade grounds, and no one was excused. Four G.I.s played hookey – and were spotted by high-level brass. A first lieutenant and first sergeant, got at least a 15-minute tongue lashing for this (plus numerous threats) and the culprits – nothing.

The author mentions Cap’n Dee and Rev. Jody Walter, but offers nothing in

their defense. We did read their letters. If I were editor I would hesitate to publish letters that picked apart the Lord’s word in order to justify your own position. At the final gate you could be blamed for passing this on.

Finally; I missed the “truth from Iraq” the U.S. embedded reporter was going to bring us. Did he find the “weapons of mass destruction,” or admit this was a shameless lie to justify invasion? Bush had the gall to joke about this while our forces and Iraqis died. Did he locate the terrorists that gang raped and then murdered the 14- to 15-year-old Iraqi girl? Just a small number of G.I.s – true – but did you hear a single member of our military, or the commander-in-chief himself condemn this dastardly act? I didn’t! The Good Book tells us to take the log out of our own eye so we can see the speck in our brother’s eye.

Ellis Richter Luck P.S. In my opinion you are just as justified to print Amy Goodman’s column as anything Wayne Anderson writes.

W h at h a p p e n e d to civ il dis co ur s e?

Wayne Anderson wrote (March 26) about Amy Goodman’s column in The Leader as hateful, slanderous, and establishing a new low in The Leader’s journalistic standards. He challenged the editor to hold Goodman’s column to the same standards of decency as Cap’n Dee, Rev. Jody Walter, and his own column, suggesting that if that were done, Goodman’s column would be banished as unduly offensive and unsubstantiated.

Frankly, I found Cap’n Dee’s column a bit over the top, but not offensive — until what many saw as racially insensitive remarks. I was happy to see Gary make the Cap’n walk the plank. I found Jody Walter’s in-your-face religiosity and his I’m-right-and-everybody-else-is-wrong tone equally offensive. I’m glad he’s gone.

I also found Steve Pearson’s claim in a column several years ago — that Marine snipers in Iraq were deliberately targeting pregnant Iraqi women and shooting them in the belly — unsubstantiated and egregiously offensive, yet he’s still around.

Most sensible readers can read a column once or twice, see it for what it is, and move on, never to return. I know that I do. Those who enjoy hate mongering, libelous language (libel is for the written word, slander the spoken word, Wayne), and unsubstantiated assertions are always free to read on. I regret that such viewpoints — regardless of what side of the political aisle they come from — are given space in any newspaper. But that seems to be the nature of what passes for discourse these days. We have Rush Limbaugh’s buffoonery on the right, Amy Goodman’s demagoguery on the left. And those are just two. Many just like them, unfortunately, have large followings.

Whatever happened to civil discourse?

Gary tried to establish a regular column in The Leader — Community Voices — for that specific purpose, but it failed to garner much public interest. I didn’t see a single letter to the editor complaining of it’s demise. Perhaps that was due to the banality of some of the columns. Or perhaps people just aren’t interested in a civil discussion of issues. A minority would rather read hate, libel and lies. They don’t need objective journalism to challenge their closed minds. They need regular diatribes to fuel their hate.

It’s the unspeaking majority that worries me. Someone once said, “Silence is complicity.” If people don’t speak out, the hate mongers and radical extremes will dominate the discussion, as they are now.

It seems a shame that so much space is taken up by such columns when that space could be better used for more hard news and civil discussion of the many real problems we face. The Iraq war is a legitimate issue. Health care is a disaster for many millions. The mortgage crisis is undermining the American dream of home ownership for all but the well-off.

Jobs, crime, poverty, spousal abuse. Let’s talk about these problems and others, and

about solutions, and stop the hateful attacks on people—even if they are politicians.

Boyd Sutton Siren

F al s e b ri d g e b u i l d i n g I would like to second much of what Rev. Olson said in his letter that appeared in the April 2 edition of the Leader.

His response was well considered. I had been minded to let it stand, but others urged me to write on this. I suspect the reason for this was to show that Lutherans, as well as Baptists, have serious difficulties with the false bridge building at West Denmark.

Mr. Miles, in his letter from a week earlier, stated that everyone worships the same god. This is absurd on the face of it.

As Lutheran theologian Franz Pieper noted nearly a century ago, there are two religions in the world - religions of works and religions of grace. In a religion of works man saves himself by doing things that earn the deity’s (or deities’) favor. In a religion of grace, man cannot save himself, he is not capable of it. God must come and save man. All religions, in the whole history of the world, are religions of works, save one - Christianity. Only in Christian doctrine is it taught that God saves man as a free gift. Islam, like all other religions, except Christianity, teaches that man must earn his own salvation by his own works.

Second, religions are either polytheistic, that is having many gods, or monotheistic, that is having one god. But in Christianity we have monotheism with a twist. God is three persons in one God. We call this “Trinity.” This term was coined at the end of the second century by the Church Father Tertullian, who also wrote extensively to develop the idea. This is more than a century before the Emperor Constantine and the Council of Nicea, in 325 A.D. Now Tertullian didn’t invent something new, he simply pulled together what Scripture said and codified it into a cohesive teaching. Contrary to popular conspiracy theories, the Church at Nicea only ratified that which had been understood from the days of the Apostles. But this idea would get your head chopped off in some Islamic countries. Islam considers the Doctrine of the Trinity to be particularly offensive.

Third, most religions, like Islam, start with a teacher or prophet. Generally, they teach. But the Judeo-Christian tradition is different. God acts in history. His actions are identified in terms of time and place.

The places are real. The rulers mentioned in the Bible are real. It is specifically prophesied, for example, that Persian emperor Cyrus would release the Jewish people from exile, before they were ever taken into exile. (Isaiah 44:28-45:1) Christ came into this world during the reigns of Herod the Great and Caesar Augustus. He was born in Bethlehem. We could go on with hundreds of examples of the historical anchors of the Christian faith.

The problem of Islam is complex. There are groups, like Ahmadi Muslims, who are pacifists. Sadly, however, Islam is a religion that has a long history of violence and many within it who teach violence today. Few Americans understand Islam and are often deceived by Muslim spokesmen who quote passages from the Koran that seem to teach peace and brotherhood.

But this is deceiving. These passages do not say what they seem to say because of the Islamic doctrine of abrogation. We get the clearest picture of Islam by looking to those countries where it is strongest or directly vying for control - Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Taliban Afghanistan and Lebanon. If anyone would like additional information on Islam, particularly the doctrine of abrogation, please feel free to contact me, or any of my neighboring Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod or A.A.L.C. pastors.

Rev. Jody R. Walter Frederic

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

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remaining unspoiled places in our insatiable desire for more oil. We could leave our descendants with more radioactive garbage so we can power all our gadgets and gizmos. We could run roughshod over more countries and lay claim to their resources. But I think there’s a better way.

I know there is.

And it’s 180 degrees from that kind of get-what-I-want-at-any-cost mentality. I believe we have a moral obligation to solve the energy and environmental challenges that face the world community in a way that benefits everyone. If we can’t do it right, we shouldn’t do it. We have no business with more dirty business. No more energy policies forged behind closed doors. No more captains of industry calling the shots. Not another spike in lung cancers among the Navajo people from uranium mining.

Sorry, friend, but nuclear energy has killed and it will kill again if the industry gets its way. Nuclear power is a socialized business in a capitalist economy, sustained by government subsidies, protected from liability by the Price-Anderson Act. And the hidden carbon pollution in the mining, milling, trucking and disposal components of the nuclear cycle make its promise of carbon-free energy a lie.

We’ve lived life at the top of the heap for the better part of a century. We’re 5 percent of the world’s population consuming 23 percent of its energy. We’ve blazed a trail for better or worse, and now the rest of the world wants their due. It’s time we had our reckoning. It’s time to lead the way to a future that makes sense for everyone. The prospect of $4-a-gallon gas might just be the spur that gets this horse galloping.

Let’s call it what it is: A moral question, a spiritual challenge. Can we slow down long enough to take stock and find the right path? We’re quickly coming to the realization that if the developing world, i.e. China, India, South America, catch up to us on the consumption curve, the world economy will collapse. And the planet will wither beneath all that greed. It’s not sustainable. Can’t be done for the long haul.

So let’s invest in a clean energy future.

There are signs pointing the way, a burgeoning movement to find an ethical solution to the challenge. Helen Caldicott, the

Australian physician turned anti-nuclear crusader, spoke to the topic before a packed house at St. Scholastica in Duluth last October. She brought along with her that night the final draft of an exhaustive study titled, “Carbon Free and Nuclear Free: A Roadmap for U.S. Energy Policy.”

The authors, including one with a Ph.D. in Nuclear Fusion, lay Steve out a detailed plan for ending Pearson our dependence on fossil fuels without busting the budget or heeding the false promise of Saturday, March 22 nuclear power.

Locally, Nukewatch of Luck has been Lads and Lassies, I’ve made it to the capital city of promoting the recommendations of the Malawi, and you know what that is! Ms. Roadmap, which include: • building model energy plants using B and I met our friends John and Susan at solar thermal, solar photovoltaic and the airport here. Then we met their African friend Justin, and we all had dinmicroalgae carbon capture • banning new coal-fired plants unless ner together.

It was very warm out, so we ate outside! they include reliable carbon capture and Can you believe it? Tomorrow on the way storage • eliminating all subsidies and tax to Livingstonia, we will stop at the breaks for fossil fuels, nuclear power and Mhkotakota Wildlife Reserve and look for lions and tigers and bears. Oops, no biofuels from food crops.

You can download a summary of the bears. But maybe elephants, too. I hope study at www.ieer.org/carbonfree/sum- we get lucky and see some. It is Saturday night here, but it’s only Saturday mary.pdf.

What can we do here now? Sometimes lunchtime at your house. The clock is it feels too big, beyond our control. But seven hours ahead here. Can you guess things are happening right here where we why?

The people here have been wonderful to live. As reported in this column in January, local groups utilizing the frame- us. Did I tell you that Malawi is known as work of The Natural Step, a guide for the Warm Heart of Africa?

More later, cities and towns who want to develop susMr. P tainable practices, have sprung up like daffodils in spring. In Polk County, you Monday, March 24 can contact Jeff Peterson at 472-2728 for more information about study circles in Muli Uli, Bucks and Buckaroos, What a big day it has been here in Luck, St. Croix Falls, Osceola and Amery.

In Burnett County, just show up at the Africa! We went to the Wildlife Reserve Siren Village Hall this Thursday, April 10, with our guide, Frank, and a ranger at 7 p.m. Help make our part of the world named Andrew who carried a gun. I’ve sent along a picture of Frank - he’s the one a model of a sustainable future. with the hat. What fun he was to walk with! The reserve was a very wild place!

We did a walking safari - we hiked 7 miles through mountains and valleys and across Friday, March 21 small streams. We saw many baboons and Hi, Boys and Girls, I’m sitting here with Ms. B. and we’re in crocodiles. We smelled an elephant nearWashington, D.C.! You know, the capital by but didn’t see it. We were out in the of the United States! We just took a plane bush for almost six hours.

Tomorrow we head north to here from Minneapolis. We left in a snowWe’ll be stopping in storm! But it’s not snowing here - it’s 55 Livingstonia. degrees, too warm to snow, right? Our Ekwendeni where Ms. B will present 51

Out of Africa

We C A N do t his A little over 50 years ago, this community came together and through kindness, dedication and, yes, some good old-fashioned muscle, Frederic built a terrific pool.

Some people gave time, some gave money, some gave muscle, and some gave all of those, but nearly everyone gave something – no matter how small.

For these last decades, the pool has provided countless children with swimming lessons and has been a place for friends and families to gather on hot summer evenings.

But like so many things, after all this time the pool needs some work. Well, OK, a lot of work. So, last week, the Friends of the Pool hosted a chance for our community to learn about what it will take to replace our pool and nearly 75 committed members of our community came out. I was there and here’s what I heard: The bar is high. But not that high. We can do this. Some will need to give time, some will need to give money, some will need to give muscle and some will probably give all of those.

However, if everyone will give something, no matter how small, we will get a new pool. An even better pool; one that will last at least another 50 years and continue to provide joy, safe fun, and opportunities to all of us. We have a chance to preserve this slice of our community, this terrific place that has given our children and our families so much. But more than the water we can swim in or the diving

H e r e

next plane ride will be real exciting because we go all the way to Africa! We’ll be landing in Johannesburg, South Africa (remember where that is on the map?). It will take 15 hours to get there. I’ll be sleeping on the plane, I’m sure. Then we get on another plane to Lilongwe. I know you know what country Lilongwe is the capital of and where to find it on the map.

Can you show everybody, Laine?

Well, that’s all for now. I’ll write more when we get to Africa!

Mr. Pearson

Planet waves

hat irregular fellow made me think. I T guess we could plunder the last

f r o m

boards we can dive from, we have a chance to gain something we don’t see enough of in this world today…to show the new generations and ourselves that Frederic can come together, once again, and make our community better, stronger, and a nicer place to live.

So as much as this meeting was an informational one, I think it was the start of something much bigger and so much more wonderful. Come on, everyone, let’s work together and let’s make this happen. Our community is worth it. Our children are worth it. And we can do it.

Rob Lillehaug Frederic Supporter of the Friends of the Pool

Letters

The Leader welcomes letters to the editor. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Letters are subject to being edited for length, taste and/or clarity, and we urge writers to be brief and limit their letters to 500 words or less.

Writers must provide their name and give their complete address and phone number. Content that will cause letters to be rejected include: Crude language, poor taste, disrespectful comments regarding a group’s or individual’s ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race; other incendiary language or personal attacks.

stethoscopes to each of the nursing students at the nursing college there, a gift from nurses back home.

On Thursday, I’ll meet first- and secondgraders and their teacher at the Livingstonia Primary School. I’ll be giving each student a pencil with the words “East Central Elementary School” on it and a pen necklace as gifts from all you firstgraders.

Goodbye until later, Mr. Pearson Wednesday, March 26 My Dear Students, Here’s a short note I’ll never send to you. The girls and boys here remind me of you with their smiles and laughter, their childlike innocence. But that’s where the similarities end. Most live in homes without plumbing or electricity.

Most children here have no shoes. A few years back, a candidate for president ran for office on the pledge that he would provide shoes for all the children of Malawi. Once elected, he reneged on his promise, saying, “How could I possibly know what sizes you all wear?”

Most students here will only finish school through third grade. Other more pressing things will keep them from their studies - hunger, sickness, loss of a parent, the long walk to school. (There are no school buses here.) The life expectancy in Malawi is 39 years old, so grandparents are a rare sight, and parents often die before their children are grown. At least 13 percent of the population is infected with the AIDS virus.

Should students decide to continue their education beyond primary school, they have to pay tuition and most can’t afford it. On Tuesday, we met a young man on the road. His secondary education had been interrupted because he couldn’t come up with the 1,800 kwacha (about $13) he needed for tuition for this term. Grinding poverty is a basic fact of life for most Malawians.

But still the children smile and call out to us as we pass them on the road. They are beautiful children, the hope for the future that sustains people living in difficult life circumstances the world over. I see you in them, and it reminds me that you’re are all bending toward the light, wherever it may be found.

Be well, Mr. P

Regional health care cooperative?

Sen. Harsdorf and St. Croix Economic Development Corporation host informational session April 18 in Baldwin

ST. CROIX COUNTY - State Sen. Sheila Harsdorf and the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation will be hosting a regional health care cooperative informational session on Friday, April 18, in Baldwin.

The session will feature presenter Bill Oemichen, president of the Wisconsin Federation of Cooperatives.

“Health care coverage for workers and their families is a top issue for small businesses and their employees,” said Harsdorf. “Cooperatives are an innovative reform measure at the state level that may be able to help those struggling with costs and access.”

The April 2008 Capital Region Business Journal called health care cooperatives “one of the few success stories from various proposals that have come out of Madison.”

Harsdorf authored successful legislation to enable the creation of health care cooperatives. Such cooperatives enable small groups and individuals to band together to purchase health care as a group, leading to better coverage and competitive pricing. Oemichen, a native of St. Croix County, spearheaded the creation of the first statewide health care cooperative designed for farmers and agribusinesses. Health care cooperatives have drawn national attention as a model for reform.

“Expanding health cooperatives for small businesses and the self-employed to the St. Croix Valley region is worth exploring,” said Bill Rubin, executive director of the SCEDC. “This informational session will enable the public to learn more about benefits of a cooperative, what it would take to establish one, and how it would operate.”

The April 18 presentation will be held at the St. Croix County Agriculture Service and Education Center, 1960 Eighth Avenue, in Baldwin from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Individuals should RSVP by calling Sen. Harsdorf’s office at 1800-862-1092 or via e-mail at Sen.Harsdorf@legis.wisconsin.gov. from the office of Sen. Harsdorf

Check out our new e-edition @ www.the-leader.net

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Unity FFA offers service to village

Public comments made on police issues; water/sewer and beach

by Marty Seeger BALSAM LAKE – The Balsam Lake Village Board was informed at Monday’s monthly meeting about the Unity FFA’s plans to provide a day-of-service activity for the village of Balsam Lake. Ag instructor Jeanne Alling first spoke to the board along with student FFA vice president Jake Thomforhda.

“The FFA is looking at piloting a program to go out into our community and provide service opportunities for the youth to get involved in the community, and we’re offering a service to do activities in the community,” Alling said.

This will be the first time the Unity students and FFA have decided to take on a day of service activity.

Similar programs have been done in Clear Lake, St. Croix Falls, Osceola and New Richmond according to Alling. It was also noted that high school students have a service requirement at the school of 40 hours of community involvement, and most of the students helping with the program are over it already. About 75 students are involved in the program at Unity.

Thomforhda explained some of the services that he and other students were considering such as park touch-ups, planting more trees and flowers, road cleanup, paint buildings and others.

“We were wondering if the board had any recommendations of what we could do,” Thomforhda said.

He explained that the service activity is planned for Friday, April 25, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

President Guy Williams thanked both Alling and Thomforhda for offering services and said they will have a list of things that can be done on the day of the service activity.

Public comments heard at village Village resident Rod Olson voiced public opinion at the village board meeting on Monday on three separate topics including water and sewer, beach improvements and police protection.

Olson was upset and said there should be no water or sewer hookups allowed to any home or business unless they are in the village of Balsam Lake.

“We should have learned our lesson out here, but apparently we didn’t. Hooking up someone in Milltown is crazy,” Olson said.

One of the areas in question are sewer lines connecting Unity School District, and those developing in Milltown who wish to use those water and sewer lines in the future, as well as assessment agreements and user fees. Olson mentioned that more use meant more pressure on the village sewer plant, which he thought might lead to an eventual sewer plant expansion.

It was explained to Olson that sewer and water were not on the tax roll, and are two utilities that stand alone, so any money spent on those utilities is paid by users, which Olson is part of.

After questions began to arise with more complexity, it was decided that the topic should be discussed in a future water/sewer committee meeting.

Olson also brought up topics on beach improvements and asked the village to find ways to improve the quality. He didn’t feel the board was acting soon enough on what he thought it needed, such as cleaning up weeds, adding more sands and taking care of goose droppings.

The project could be included in the CTH I enhancement project, but Olson thought something should be done sooner.

Another concern was police protection, and not seeing Balsam Lake police chief Sheryl Gehrman as often.

“I just used to see a lot more of her, that’s all I’m going to tell you, and she’s just not coming around anymore, and I think that’s part of public protection,”

Olson said.

The board responded by saying that Gehrman has been getting caught up with November, December and January paperwork, as well as working on policy and procedure.

“She’s been doing a lot of work on that, so I mean she’s been busy with that and working and patrolling at the same time, so I mean its not like she’s sitting here doing nothing,” president Williams noted.

Trustee Geno D’Agostino brought up a point that he’s received no complaints as far as criminal activity in town from anyone for the last two months, so not seeing her as often should not translate into less protection, but Olson thought otherwise.

Other business • It was reported in the monthly public library report that author Wm. Kent Krueger will be at the Balsam Lake public library to discuss his books that involve mysteries that take place in northern Minnesota. He’ll be there April 12 at 11 a.m. to discuss his books.

• Discussion was held on the possibility of a future skateboard park. Members of the park/dam committee met with Chris Nelson and Katie Johnson who president Guy Williams said had good ideas about a future project, but it was decided to raise money first before anything is started. About $16,000 to $20,000 is minimum needed for a favorable skateboard park. The board discussed different grant options that might be able to be used.

• Resolution 2008-02 proclaims the month of April 2008 as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month in Balsam Lake. It is urged that all citizens throughout the nation and community provide children a chance for a safe and positive future by creating awareness and helping prevent child abuse and neglect.

“How Money Works” seminar set

FREDERIC – The public is invited to a “How Money Works” seminar to be held Saturday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to noon at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

The seminar will be presented by PFS Investments of Rice Lake and will cover the following topics: • Three root causes of financial problems: 1. Failure

to plan, 2. Uniformed and 3. Misinformed • Do you know the rule of 72?

• Tax deferred vehicles...are you maximizing your options?

• What are mutual funds?

• The 3 D’s of investing?

• Are you paying off your debt in the best possible

manner?

• Credit card traps exposed • Do you know how your life insurance policy works?

For more information call Gene Mason at 715-2345482. - submitted

Thrivent Financial gives $1,000 to Luther Point

Bible Camp for bunk bed project to begin in May

ROSEVILLE, Minn. – Thrivent Financial for Lutherans recently awarded $1,000 to Luther Point Bible Camp to assist in building bunk beds for the camper cabins.

The activity will take place on May 3 and 10.

Volunteers from Lutheran Churches in Northwest Wisconsin will come together to build the beds. The funding will be used to purchase the building materials needed for the project.

“Thrivent Financial seeks to help the Lutheran community in various ways,” said Joan Bartz, Financial Consultant in Glenwood City. “Thrivent Financial’s Regional Lutheran Relations program seeks to enhance Lutheran events, build mutually beneficial relationships and help fund projects and educational opportunities that support and contribute to the health and vitality of the Lutheran community.”

Organizations eligible to receive Thrivent Financial Regional Lutheran Relations funds include congregations, congregation coalitions, regional divisions of the three largest church bodies, small church bodies, high schools, colleges, universities, seminaries, and inde-

pendent nonprofit organizations.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans is a not-for-profit Fortune 500 financial services membership organization helping 2.8 million members achieve their financial goals and give back to their communities. For more information, visit www.thrivent.com. - submitted

Curves donates to food shelf

Curves in Webster donated approximately 1,350 pounds of nonperishable foods to the Indianhead Action Agency’s food shelf, also in Webster.

(L to R) Brenda Christianson, Kathe Stromberg, Kay Cummings, Avis Morrison, Peggy Lawless, Janet Swenson, Ronda Parker, Gayle Nielsen and Sharon Moretter.

RIGHT: Kay Cummings loads Sharon Moretter’s van with food for the food shelf.

It took several vehicles to transport some 1,350 pounds from Curvers. – Photos by

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

Lindsey Novitzke, chosen to represent Polk-Burnett on youth tour CENTURIA – Lindsey awareness about the Novitzke, a senior at New Search Institute’s 40 Richmond High School, was developmental assets for selected to represent Polkyouth, and she is a youth Burnett for the Youth Tour representative on her city of Washington, D.C., sponcouncil. She is also a sored by the National Rural member of the Front Electric Cooperative Porch Project Youth Task Association. She will join Force and assisted with 1,400 high school students the Empty Bowls hunger from across the country June awareness campaign in 13-19 to learn about cooperSt. Croix County. atives, the rural electric proNovitzke is the daughgram, U.S. government, Lindsey Novitzke, a ter of Ann and Greg democracy and history. She 2008 New Richmond Christenson. She plans to will meet with congression- High School graduate, attend the College of St. al leaders and tour Capitol will represent Polk- Norbert in De Pere, to Hill, national monuments, Burnett on a youth tour study communications Arlington National of Washington, D.C., and psychology. and the June 13-19. – Photo sub- “I believe a trip to our Cemetery mitted Smithsonian Museums. nation’s capitol will Novitzke was selected to inspire me even further be Polk-Burnett’s delegate for the to reach for my dreams, inspire others NRECA Youth Tour based on her com- and work hard to create good in the munity involvement and an essay about community in which I one day will energy issues facing her generation. She live,” wrote Novitzke in her youth tour is a 2008 Polk-Burnett scholarship recip- essay assignment. ient and a member of her school’s Note: Polk-Burnett’s youth tour and National Honor Society. She served on scholarship program do not affect electhe student council for two years and tric rates; they are funded by unclaimed was a member of the 2007 prom com- capital credits. –from Polk-Burnett mittee. Novitzke is active in building

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Follow the Leader.

St. Patrick’s Day birthday celebrated at Frederic Nursing and Rehab

Jim Kerr entertained residents and families at Frederic Nursing and Rehab on the afternoon of St. Patrick’s Day. As a special treat for longtime employee, Elsie Louis, Kerr sang “Happy, Happy Birthday Baby.” Louis has been an employee at this nursing facility since January of 1987. – Photo submitted

Hitchcock-Gale named to Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle Debra HitchcockGale, a sales associate with Coldwell Banker Lakeside Realty, has qualified to join the c o m p a n y ’ s International President’s Circle.

The prestigious membership is awarded to the top 3 percent of the more than 116,800 sales associates worldwide in the Coldwell Banker System.

The International President’s Circle designation is among the highest accolades presented by the organization. – submitted

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Luck looks to make state run in boys golf Sectional qualifiers back for another go at state

by Marty Seeger LUCK – After a memorable state trip to Madison back in March during the basketball season, coach Rick Giller will have another crack at coaching a team to a possible state tournament appearance. Only this time, he and the rest of the Luck boys will be competing for a trip to University Ridge Golf Course in Madison.

“Well, we definitely want to make it to state this year, there’s no doubt about it,” Giller said. “We were close last year and with everybody coming back, I think it’s a realistic goal.”

The Cardinals have been at the top of the regular season conference standings for the past two years and qualified for team sectionals in both years. Kody Erickson, Travis Close, Noah Thatcher and Carson Giller each made all-conference last season and were the team’s most consistent golfers, but Giller insists every spot is open, and he’s instilling in his team that no spot on the varsity roster is set in stone.

While its too early to tell who’ll step into what he calls “the fifth spot,” there are a handful of golfers that will be competing to be on the varsity team. Dylan Fultz, Tyler Petersen, Nate Nelson and Christian McCabe, who showed much improvement last season, will be competing all year long for a spot on the varsity squad. It all depends on who

Extra Points

Last year the Luck boys golfers enjoyed a regional championship, but fell just short of the sectional title, but they'll get another shot this season. From (L to R): Coach Rick Giller, Carson Giller, Noah Thatcher, Travis Close, Kody Erickson and Dylan Fultz. - File photo by Marty Seeger remains consistent throughout the year to help the team play at the highest level possible. Giller insists that all are capable of owning a varsity role.

“Its up for grabs, basically,” Giller said.

With weather in the 30s, the coach has not determined if any improvements have been made since last year, but the team is itching to get outside and play.

On Tuesday, some of the kids were considering a trip to Crooked Creek in Osceola, since they heard it might be open.

“I think they’re nuts, but I said if they want to go out and hit a real ball versus plastic ones, I say go for it,” Giller said.

Strength in numbers Webster boys track hopes to plow path to the top

by Marty Seeger WEBSTER – The Webster boys track team will be hoping to compete for the conference crown again this season, and will have a great shot at the title if they can get by the tough Frederic and Unity teams.

But this year looks even brighter for the 2007 conference champions, who will be returning all of their top players from last year. Couple that with a record turnout of 50 athletes on the roster and that will be looking to fill spots in every event. Coach Jeff Postler is in his 30th year of coaching and is excited to see so many talented athletes back out for track again this season.

“We have a lot of talent and hope to make the run at doing our best at the conference, regional and sectional meets,” Postler said. “Also, we hope to bring a large number of events to the state meet in La Crosse again and finish even higher in those events.”

Postler says the strengths of the team will be in the 1600 and 3200-meter runs, 4x800 and 4x400-meter relays, 400meter dash and 800-meter run, high jump and discus.

The team has a number of younger

This team is stacked. With about 50 boys out for track this season, the Webster boys will look to fill every event the conference has to offer. - Leader file photo athletes out this year but Postler says it’s still too early to tell who will step up to fill events. Proven athletes from last year include Peter Walsh, Brian Thill, Brian Gibbs, Asa Olson, Josh Johnson,

Josh Payson, Nick Krinkie, Quinton Johnson, Bryan Krause, Ryan Brickle, Nolan Kriegel, Dan Pope, Chaz Heinz and Jack Taylor.

••• MENOMONIE – Former SCF athlete, and current UW-River Falls sophomore Jessica Lundgren helped the Falcons softball team to their school record 13th-straight victory last weekend against UW-Stout.

She's listed on the roster as a utility player and played left field in the doubleheader as the team won 5-0 and 4-0, respectively. Falcon pitcher Ashley Bertrand threw a no hitter in the first game, and Lundgren batted twice and walked twice. In the second game, Lundgren had two of the team's six hits and scored twice. Marty Seeger ••• ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix River Bandits are holding tryouts on Sunday, April 13 at 1 p.m. at the SCF High School field. Tryouts are open to anyone, with focus on the basics of hitting, pitching and baserunning.

The team has possibly four open spots as well as two league roster openings. For more information contact Jim Rochford at 651-442-4909 Marty Seeger ••• MENOMONIE – UW-Stout senior and former Frederic standout Bryan Vilstrup suffered an injury to his pitching arm while playing in Arizona. The Blue Devils ace has an inflammation of a muscle in his shoulder. He pitched two innings against Superior last Sunday but was taken out because he was unable to complete the pitching rotation. Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Minnesota Twins baseball is being broadcast on WLMX 104.9 FM on the following dates: On April 10 the Twins at White Sox game begins at 7 p.m. The Royals games on April 11, 12 and 13 will be broadcast at 7 p.m., 6 p.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. The April 14 and 15 games at Detroit begin at 6 p.m. both nights, and the April 16 game against Tampa Bay begins at 7 p.m. - Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Milwaukee Brewers baseball on WXCE 1260 AM can be heard on the following dates: On April 10 the Cincinatti game begins at 12 p.m. The series against the Mets can be heard on April 11 at 1 p.m., and the April 12-13 games both begin at noon. The April 15-16 games against the Cardinals both begin at 7 p.m. - Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to go in Extra Points! – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete who will be playing collegiate sports in 2008 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld

S PORTS RE S U LTS DEADLI N E S: WE DN E S DAY - MON DAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TU E S DAY: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

S P O R T S N E W S O R S C O R E S T O R E P O R T ? • P H O N E : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 2 3 6 • FA X : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 1 1 7 • E - M A I L : m s e e g e r @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t o r b r e n d a l s @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

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2008 Boys Track Preview

by Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld

Wink commented. “It took away a few from us.”

Frederic Vikings The Vikings boys track team might have been third in the conference last year, but they took first at the regional meet in Webster and second at the sectional meet in Colfax. They lost by one point to Cadott at the sectional meet.

None of the team members graduated this season, but Ben Anderson chose to play spring baseball instead of going out for track for this year.

Anderson went to state in the 100meter dash, where he finished 14th in 2007. River Karl also went to state, finishing second in the 800-meter run and third in the 1600-meter run. Peter Carlson was the other Frederic boy to go, finishing fifth in the pole vault event. Karl and Carlson will return to the team to try and make another run at state.

Zach Anderson just missed the state trip in hurdles and the triple jump, as well as Tyler Calabria in the 200-meter dash and the long jump. So, they will be looking to make it this year.

“We have 23 out right now,” fourthyear coach Troy Wink said, “a good mix of boys to fill spots, but it is too early to tell what all will be filled. We will have to develop kids to fill all events and hopefully get some depth at each event.”

Wink is expecting Webster and Unity to be the teams to beat, while Grantsburg comes into the mix.

“May be interesting to see if spring baseball affects those schools at all,”

Grantsburg Pirates The Pirates return some athletes that made their mark at meets last season.

There were Grantsburg names on many of the events during the regional meet in Park Falls.

Lukas Olson, Tony Larson, Brandon Mogel, Jason Jensen and Shawn Pavlik will all return this season to be key competitors for the Pirate team.

Pavlik brings experience in the high jump, placing ninth at sectionals, while Jensen knows the triple jump.

Olson placed third in the 200-meter dash at regionals. Olson was also part of the 4x100-meter and 4x200-meter relay teams that each placed third at the regional meet at Park Falls. Out of the three other teammates for 4x100 meter, Mogel is the only other returner, but the 4x200 has both Mogel and Jensen, only losing Aaron Simmons.

“Coaches and athletes are looking forward to the season,” coach Bill Morrin said.

Luck Cardinals The Luck boys track team sent two boys to the sectional tournament in Colfax last season, and Nick Morgan will be the only returner from last season’s sectional run.

Morgan finished third place in the 200 and 400 and Peter Rozumalski, who won’t be back due to graduation, took fourth in the 800.

“Nick Morgan is our top returner, and is looking good in practice,” says coach Jeff Brenizer.

The only senior on the Luck boys team is Wally Rich, with juniors including Morgan, Ross Petersen, Jeff Holmes, James Mellon, Adam Anderson and James Longhenry. Joe Dahlke is the team’s only sophomore.

St. Croix Falls Saints Last season the Saints boys finished in the middle of the conference, and the boys 4X400-meter relay team made it to the sectional meet. Chase Walters and Allastant Nuckles, Joe Carpenter and Tom Colombo were part of the relay team and Walters and Nuckles made it in the sprints.

After coaching the girls team for the past three seasons, coach Sam Malm has taken over the boys team, while Craig Broeren is coaching the girls this season.

The Saints should have depth with their throwers this season, according to Malm.

“Many new recruits will help with depth in the shot put and discus. Ryan Larson and David Lund are showing great form and technique in practice,” Malm says. “They should help out by scoring points in throw along with Willy Springer.”

Malm would like to see the team finish third or better in the conference and thinks depth and will help the team obtain that goal. From only 17 boys on the roster last season to 30, it should be a different season for the Saints.

Siren Dragons Siren’s boys finished seventh in the conference last year and graduated John Anderson and Derek D’Jock, who were

both top performers on their team.

D’Jock went to state for discus, and Anderson went to regionals for shot in 2007.

The other event that made it past regionals was the boys 4x200-meter relay team. D’Jock, Travis Freese, Vince Nasman and Jace Carter were the runners for the team. With D’Jock graduated and Nasman not on the team, Freese and Carter will have to find new teammates in order to make it this far again this season.

“We graduated some wonderful athletes, and while they will not be on our team this year, their legacy will continue,” coach Wayne Koball said.

Koball says with the addition of spring baseball, and always having softball, the dynamics of their team has changed.

“We see this as a challenge and we are committed to making our new system help all our student athletes, including track, softball and baseball,” Koball commented.

Unity Eagles The Unity boys finished in second place at the Lakeland Conference track meet last season. This year the team not only lost several key athletes to graduation, but lost a fair amount to spring baseball.

The key athletes back again this season include Chad Strilzuk, Dan Livingston, Lance Peper, Cody Turnquist, Tim Reed and Elliot St. Amand. The strengths of the team, according to coach Mike Morris, will likely be in the 100, 200 and 400.

The team will be working with some new talent with the addition of 13 freshmen, so they’ll be looking at a fairly inexperienced team this year, but it should still be an exciting year for the boys and girls team as they have a total of about 28 kids. Those numbers don’t quite compare to the typical number of about 40 kids, but Morris is confident that those numbers will even out in the future.

“We’re down with our juniors, we have five sophomores and 13 freshmen, so we have a good group coming and it looks like we have a good group coming in the middle school, so I think those numbers will come back,” Morris said.

Recent changes to the track field not only bring the conference meet to Unity this season, but should bring the numbers back up to speed in the future as well.

“We’re looking forward to getting out there to practice on it,” Morris said.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

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2008 Girls Track Preview

by Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld Frederic Vikings This season the Frederic girls will look to stand-in coach Bob Pyke for guidance. Pyke will be taking the place of Jeff Larcom as head coach for just this season, while Larcom is out after having surgery. Pyke has many years of experience he brings to the Viking plate. He previously was head coach for 17 years and assistant coach for two before taking a few years off.

Pyke will have a mostly younger group of athletes to work with this season, with a few returning upperclassmen.

“We have a good nucleus of upperclassmen to set a good example and lead the way for our younger athletes,” Pyke said. “We look to improve individually and as a team throughout the season.”

Kelly Wondra will get another chance to make it to state, after barely missing it last year. Wondra won the triple jump at the Webster regionals and took fifth at the sectionals in Colfax. She also took second in the long jump in regionals.

Candace Buck will also be back with experience in the triple jump and 100meter dash. Alex Puetz brings strength in shot put, and Megan Anderson in the 1600-meter dash.

Grantsburg Pirates Grantsburg’s girls team will once again be small numbers this season, but with a few key athletes they should leave marks in the conference.

“We certainly don’t have the numbers we would like,” coach Bill Morrin said, “but we do have some quality athletes.”

Megan Finch, Laura Skifstad, Kortney Morrin and Angela Gaffney should all show good potential over this season.

Finch ended her season at sectionals in Colby, finishing seventh in the high jump. It was not quite enough to take her to state, but she’ll get another shot this year. She did take second during the regional competition to make it to sectionals, and as a junior this year, should improve her numbers over the next years.

Siren Dragons The Siren girls finished fourth in the conference in 2007. With returning athletes, and coaches with 20-plus years’ experience, the Dragons hope to stay there or maybe make it higher this year.

“We are willing to work hard and do our part for the good of the team,” coach Wayne Koball commented.

Sarah Howe made it to state last year, as a freshman, in the 1600-meter run

after finishing fourth at the sectional meet in Colfax. Howe also competed in the 3200-meter run and the 4x800-meter relay.

The 4x800 team went to state with Sarah Howe, Lauren Howe, Jennifer Mitchell and Caitlin Flanigan running to place fourth at sectionals. Lauren Howe and Flanigan, however, did graduate and Mitchell’s not returning, leaving the rest of the spots up for grabs.

“We are a team and depend on each other throughout the season for our success,” Koball said.

With 17 girls on the team, there should be some names that stick out for this girls team during this season.

Luck Cardinals The Luck girls track roster consists of about a dozen athletes, and is looking to add a few more into the sectional tournament this year. Half of those on the roster include seniors Karen Lund, Sarah Petersen, Chelsea Rasmussen, Fransiska Schmidt, Briana Stage and Erica Wilson, who earned a trip to the sectional meet last season in Colfax. She was the only girl to make it to Colfax last year and finished fourth place in the 800.

“Our girls will be led by seniors Petersen and Wilson, both are looking to improve on last year’s marks,” said coach Jeff Brenizer.

He feels the girls will have strengths in the sprints and field events.

St. Croix Falls Saints Craig Broeren, who has coached cross country at St. Croix Falls for the past six years, has taken the coaching duties for the girls track team this season after tak-

ing the past two years off. Prior to that he coached four years on the track team.

Injuries and graduation have put a small dent in the team so far this season.

Cassie Andrewson moved, Jessica Ahles and Annie Lindstrom both graduated and Sheranda Whittaker has an injury as well. Freshman Bailey Bergmann, who was a state qualifier in cross country last season, is still recuperating from a broken leg, so strengths are a little in question for the team at this point.

“I’ll have to wait and see, but judging from practice, we chould have a group that is ready to work and have fun,” Broeren said.

Unity Eagles The Unity girls and coach Mike Bielmeier hope to finish at the top of the conference as they have over the past several years.

“I think we’ve got a good shot to place right at the top of the conference,” Bielmeier said. “We’ve been up there the last few years, we’ve just been short a couple of events each time.”

One of the key elements this season will be trying to stay healthy. Charity Moore qualified for sectionals last season in the long jump, but has been recuperating from a broken back, and other members of the team have had injuries that have slowed progress some, but with another strong senior leadership, the team should fare well in the conference.

“They’ve done well,” Bielmeier said about this year’s senior squad. “They’ve basically pulled us through the last three years, winning meets and doing well at the meets.”

Couple that with a new group of

freshman and a strong freshman squad and you’ve got a well-balanced mix of talent. The team has even added a few new competitors each year in different class years, so Bielmeier has a lot to choose from. The team is looking at around 35 girls on the team this year.

Webster Tigers The top half of the rankings was where you could usually find the Webster team last season. Many years in the past, Webster has taken athletes to the state competition. No girls made it last year, but there is always this year.

“We have been successful because of the commitment of the coaching staff and the athletes,” head girls coach Roy Ward said. “It is nice to win the conference and take kids to state, but it is also satisfying to work with athletes at all levels to reach their own personal success.”

The Webster team has five different coaches that specialize in different areas of track and field.

During this year, the Tigers have 19 girls competing. Ward says he will be depending on four seniors to set the tone, Kathryn Krause, Aimee Rinnman, Debbie Faught and Beth Baer.

All of these seniors bring experience from the regional and sectional meets whether in relay teams or individual events.

“We have a great group of girls that are a blast to be around,” Ward said.

“They work hard and have fun at the same time. We also have talent that will give the area girls some good competition in individual and relay teams.”

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by Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld Frederic Vikings Frederic ended last in the conference in 2007, had a hard time fielding a full team in many of the meets. But this year, with Kelly Steen’s 12 years’ coaching experience and golfers returning this season, it should go differently for them.

Steen says her team is hoping to finish in the middle or upper part of the conference this season. She also hopes to be able to send golfers to the sectional meet again.

David Harlander made all-conference last year and will be back again this season, while Ian Anderson and Lucas Anderson both lettered and will bring some appreciated experience. Nolan Neumann will play baseball instead of golf this season.

Many on the Frederic team played over the summer, giving them an advantage with enough golfers to field a full varsity team for this spring. The only thing that might be tough is that many of the athletes out are just begin-

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2008 Golf Preview

ning in golf.

“I don’t see this as a weakness but a wonderful learning experience for those students,” Steen said. “They will get to work and play on some awesome golf courses and hopefully learn to love the game of golf and be able to play it for their entire lifetime.”

Grantsburg Pirates The Pirate golf team finished second in the conference, just below the Luck Cardinals.

“Luck will be the team to beat again this year,” coach Bruce Teigen said.

All-conference player, Brad Berner, and two of last year’s starters, Tony Lamere and Derek Sando, will bring the experience to the Grantsburg team.

Two starters graduated from the team, leaving two open starting spots that Teigen is not quite sure whom to put in those yet. He is looking to Jacob Wilhelm to hopefully fill one of the spots after playing some varsity last year.

“It’s kind of early to tell right now. I can’t really tell until we get out on the course,” Teigen said.

St. Croix Falls Saints The Saints are loaded with about 24 athletes this year and coach Todd Voss hopes that having that many kids will create a lot of competition for the top spots on varsity.

“Last year’s team was very young and competitive as we had one junior, one sophomore and three freshman on varsity, so again this year we are young but more experienced,” Voss said.

Some of the key golfers this season include senior Dan Roach, junior Josh Yunker, and sophomores Blake Yunker, John Mikl and Kyle Christianson.

Voss believes that Luck will definitely be the team to beat but expects the Saints to be competitive alongside other teams in the conference.

Siren Dragons Brian Webster comes into his 14th year of coaching golf with five athletes to play for him this season.

Their lack of depth will definitely be a weakness for the Dragon team with three juniors and two sophomore golfers.

Ben Clasen will be a returning key player, while Adam Daniels chose baseball and Ryan Clemmons moved to Webster this year.

Webster thinks every team will be good this spring.

“We will try to get better every week, have fun and try to be competitive,” Webster said.

Webster Tigers Webster has a few not returning, but many with varsity experience from last season to bring them through this year’s meets.

Mitchell Elliott, Karl Weber, Mike Kurkowski, Dan Erickson and Scott Stromberg all bring experience back from last year. Paul Olesen, Mike Curtis and AJ Almquist will, however, not be back and will be missed this spring by the team.

Coach Jeromie Voeltz describes his team as enthusiastic but in need of more confidence.

“Our squad is fired up about this season,” Voeltz said. “Now if we can just get outside.”

He also did say, “We need to improve on confidence from last season. We let too many rounds get away from us because of a bad hole. We need to learn to move on and have a short memory.”

Unity Eagles The Eagles lost a few kids after the summer baseball program moved to spring, but the team has some key returning players and look to improve in the conference.

“We lost a few kids to spring baseball, but we have some nice players returning,” coach Chuck Holicky said. “We’ll be pretty young.”

Unity does not have a single senior on the roster this season, but the team will look to junior Sam Bengston for team leadership.

“He’s been a great ball striker but had trouble scoring; hopefully, this year it will all come together,” Holicky said.

The weather has still kept the team indoors, so Holicky and the rest of the team are anxious to get things going.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

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Turkey opener a week away Area old-timers still shake their heads in disbelief over the idea that we have a wild turkey season in Polk and Burnett counties. Though the Wisconsin DNR began their efforts to re-establish the birds with inaugural restora- THE SPORTS tion efforts back in 1976, many experts thought the birds were destined to thrive primarily in the state’s driftless area where the curvaceous south-facing hillsides and slopes stayed mostly snow-free in even the toughest of winters.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s I was part of a small entourage which made an annual foray to Crawford County, which is south of LaCrosse.

Not only did we generally have a successful hunt, but we also rather enjoyed the status of being able to come home and regale locals with tales of the goose-bump-inducing echoes of gobbles cascading through the beautiful verdant valleys of the southwest part of the state.

But by 1993, the birds were well established elsewhere in the Badger State, including locally and–for this sportsman anyway–another five-day hunting road trip could no longer be

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Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: D & B’s 79, The Hee Haws 61.5, Spare-Us 59, Sandbaggers 56, Gems 53.5, Hot Shots 48.

Women’s games: Barb Morgan (D&Bs) 203, Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 168, Mindy Linke (The Hee Haws) 159.

Women’s series: Barb Morgan (D&Bs) 514, Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 457, Edla Meyer (Sandbaggers) 431.

Men’s games: Scott Morrison (Gems) 213, Scott Lamphere (Spare-Us) 204, Jim Loomis (SpareUs) 190.

Men’s series: Scott Morrison (Gems) 558, Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 512, Mark Loomis (Spare-Us) 511.

Team games: Spare-Us 867, D & B’s 814, Gems 808.

Team series: D & B’s 2382, SpareUs 2343, Gems 2325.

Games 50 or more above average: Scott Lamphere (+60).

Splits converted: 9-7-10: Chuck Moyer. 3-10: Daryl Marek, Brian Bistram, Jim Loomis, Gail Linke. 5-7: Mark Loomis. 5-10: Doris Birch, Bert Meyer.

Monday Afternoon Seniors Standings: Swans 35, Nite Hawks 31.5, Eagles 26, Bears 23, Badgers 17.5, Bye 0.

Women’s games: Nancy Morten 160, Lila Larson 159, Carol Messer 154.

Women’s series: Nancy Morten 476, Joan Anderson 429, Lila Larson 420.

Men’s games: Jim Morten 242, Dick Coen 200, Buster Hinrichs 190.

Men’s series: Dick Coen 545, Jim Morten 528, Buster Hinrichs 526.

Team games: Bears 669, Nite Hawks 668, Eagles 620.

Team series: Nite Hawks 1858, Bears 1803, Eagles 1739.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Great Northern Outdoors 127.5, Bottle Shop 113, Yellow Lake Lodge 109, Hacker’s Lanes 100, Pioneer Bar 64, Hog

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justified at the home front. The first state season was held in the spring of 1983, when 182 birds were harvested. By 2006–the 30th year since reintroduction–nearly 47,000 spring gobblers (and a few bearded hens) were bagged.

Early on the morning of March 31–the day of our last big snow–I stood in a driveway and heard a wild tom turkey gobbling virtually nonstop for about 10 minutes. It was quite a thrill to hear a gobbler on family owned land. Hopefully that bird will be in the same spot when next Wednesday morning rolls around.

And remember: “Sale of the turkey stamp currently brings in over $500,000 annually for developing, managing, conserving, restoring and maintaining the wild turkey population within the state” (Source: Wisconsin DNR turkey Web page). If you enjoy watching turkeys but are not a hunter, you may still help the cause by purchasing a stamp.

Make the most of spring and summer Last spring it was chronicled in this space that numerous rural (and some municipal) Leader readers were experiencing problems with invaders from the forest floor–namely chipmunks and red squirrels. The crafty rodents were threatening to take over garages, wood piles, hunting shacks, cabins, machine sheds, gardens, flower beds, bird feeders and feed bins. While some threw in the towel against the attackers by simply crying

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“uncle” and moving to another state, others resorted to the live trap, releasing their catch out into the countryside. Still other folks–with their backs to the wall–opted to take up arms against the voracious creatures.

This spring and summer, many who have pledged to again thin the rodent herd have also pledged to take their efforts to the next level. Since the weather is generally lousy around here for a good seven months of the year (no matter how we pretend otherwise, we have green grass and green trees only from about May 10 to Sept. 25) we tend to fill our fleeting nice-weather months with not only work, but also with parties, picnics and family gatherings.

Why not enhance one of your 2008 nice-weather gatherings with one (or both) of the following kitchen creations? or Red Squirrel Chipmunk Quesadillas (excellent for Cinco de Mayo, a graduation party, or the Fourth of July) 2 cups shredded chipmunk or red squirrel 1 to 1-1/2 cup Burnett Dairy shredded cheddar cheese 2 tbsp. green onions 1 tbsp. red pepper sliced mushrooms 10-inch flour tortilla.

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shred meat, then saute meat and other ingredients in a pan. Heat the tortilla in another pan. Add meat/vegetable mixture to one half of tortilla and flip other half over mixture. Cook for two minutes, then flip entire stuffed tortilla for two minutes. Serve whole or cut into strips.

Chipmunk or Red Squirrel Stuffed Mushrooms (Great for a wedding rehearsal dinner or class reunion) 1-1/2 lbs. of medium-sized mushrooms 1/2 lb. of shredded chipmunk or red squirrel (or mixture) 3/4 cup shredded Burnett Dairy mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup bread crumbs (if on Atkins diet, crushed pork rinds may be used in lieu of bread crumbs) 1 tbsp. parsley salt & pepper to taste Heat oven to 450. Remove stems from mushrooms, finely chop and set aside in skillet, then add shredded meat. Cook for five minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in cheese, parsley and bread crumbs.

Season to taste. Spoon into mushroom caps and bake for 6 to 8 minutes or until cheese melts.

Next week: Baseball and trivia returns.

Parboil rodent(s) until meat easily comes away from bones. Chop or

O W L I N G

Wild 64, Reliables 50, St. Croix Valley Hardwoods 48.5.

Individual games: Reed Stevens 297, Roger Tollander 255, Ron Skow 253.

Individual series: Tom Coen 704, Ed Bitler 683, Roger Tollander 682.

Team games: Bottle Shop 733, Great Northern Outdoors 708, Yellow Lake Lodge 652.

Team series: Great Northern Outdoors 2007, Yellow Lake Lodge 1888, Bottle Shop 1836.

Games 50 or more above average: Tom Coen (+58).

Games 100 or more above average: Reed Stevens (+100).

Wednesday Afternoon Ladies Standings: Eggs 2-79, Pioneer Bar 5-57.5, Frandsen Dairy ?-50, Hacker’s Lanes 2-32.5.

Individual games: Char Sandberg (PB) 187, Kathy Sandberg (PB) & Laur Fisk (PB) 168, Ruthe Sorensen (FD) 167.

Individual series: Kathy Sandberg (PB) 479, Laur Fisk (PB) 451, Char Sandberg (PB) 442.

Team games: Pioneer Bar 599 & 580, Hacker’s Lanes 548.

Team series: Pioneer Bar 1709, Hacker’s Lanes 1542, Frandsen Dairy 1525.

Wednesday Night Early Men’s Standings: Lewis Silo 31, Skol Bar 31, Larsen Auto Center 30, Parker 29, Cummings Lumber 29, A-1 Machine 26, Four Seasons Wood Products 25, Pioneer Bar 23.

Individual games: Wayne Olson (LS) 255, Brett Daeffler (LA) 254, Mark Bohn (SB) 248.

Individual series: Brett Daeffler 714, Wayne Olson 682, Norm Hansen (A-1) 667.

Team games: Larsen Auto Center 1054, Lewis Silo 1051, Four Seasons Wood Products 1000.

Team series: Four Seasons Wood Products 2935, Larsen Auto Center 2887, Lewis Silo 2874.

Thursday Early 3-Man Standings: K-Wood (9) 50.5, Fab Four (4) 43, CenturyTel (11) 42, Full Timers (4) 40, Frontier Trails (10) 39,

P

Hell Raisers (2) 38, Grindell Law Offices (9) 37.5, Wikstrom Construction (3) 22.

Individual games: Ed Bitler (KW) 267, Dave Grindell (GLO) 235, Marlin Larson (FrT) 217.

Individual series: Ed Bitler (K-W) 663, Dave Grindell (GLO) 620, Don McKinney (FF) 590.

Team games: Frontier Trails 620, KWood 618, Grindell Law Offices 614.

Team series: Grindell Law Offices 1743, K-Wood 1730, Frontier Trails 1633.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Ed Bitler (K-W) 9x = 267.

Games 50 or more above average: Marlin Larson 217 (+67); Ed Bitler 267 (+51).

Most points: Dave Hall 59.

Splits converted: 2-4-7-10: John Anderson. 5-10: Bert Meyer. 4-9: Dennis Lieder. 5-8-10: Kerry Cook.

2-10: Bert Meyer. 6-7-10: Joel Struck. 8-9: Blake Douglas. 3-6-7: Dennis Lieder. 7-8-10: John Tinman.

9-10: Dan Carlson. 2-7-9: Brian McBroom. 3-10: Don McKinney.

Thursday Late Men’s Standings: Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 39-17, Fisk Trucking 28-28, Hansen Farms Inc. 27-29, Johnson Upholstery 27-29, Stotz & Company 22-34.

Individual games: Gene Wynn Sr. 247, Dale Frandsen 215, Gene Wynn Jr. 204.

Individual series: Gene Wynn Sr. 590, Dale Frandsen 573, Gene

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Wynn Jr. 543.

Team games: Hansen Farms Inc. 909, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 877, Stotz & Company 866.

Team series: Hansen Farms Inc. 2589, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 2465, Fisk Trucking 2446.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: Meyer’s Plus 73, Skol Bar 62, The Leader 57.5, Tin Cup Promotions 42, Hole in the Wall 41.5, Junque Art 39.

Individual games: Missy Hernandez 199, Cindy Denn 182, Cara Holicky 181.

Individual series: Cara Holicky 534, Missy Hernandez 532, Jen Carlson 487.

Team games: Skol Bar 653, The Leader 620, Junque Art 587.

Team series: Skol Bar 1893, The Leader 1747, Junque Art 1694.

Splits converted: 5-10: Betsy Poston, Sheila Hansen. 2-5-7: Cindy Denn. 5-7: Kim Owens.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Milltown Appliance 103.5, Metal Products Co. 101.5, Edina Divas 88, Sam’s Carpentry 78.5, McKenzie Lanes 74, Bont Chiropractic 68, Frederic Truck & Tractor 66.5, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 60.

Individual games: Dana Amundson 213, Linda McCurdy 212, Shirley Wilson 204.

Individual series: Cindy Castellano 552, Dana Amundson 548, Shirley Wilson 547.

Team games: (Handicap score) Metal Products 1026.

Team series: (Handicap score) Metal Products 2880.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: The Dugout 63.5, Steve’s Appl. 62, Glass Bar 51, NelLo-Hill Farm 50, Greatland Trans.

49, McKenzie Lanes 48, Hack’s Pub 40.5 Dream Lawn 36.

Individual games: Sam Leggitt 258, Ole Baillargeon 258, Donny Potting Jr. 258.

Individual series: Erv Lehmann

700, Ole Baillargeon 698, Donny Potting Jr. 676.

Team games: (Handicap scores) The Dugout 120, Steve’s Appliance 1181, McKenzie Lanes & Hack’s Pub 1179.

Team series: (Handicap scores) The Dugout 3491, Greatland Trans.

3462, Steve’s Appliance 3435.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 45, Dalles Electrical 31, McKenzie Lanes 28, Reed’s Marina 28, Harvest Moon 26, Edina Realty 24, Hanjo Farms 24, Davy’s Construction 18.

Individual games: Sam Leggitt 277, Dan Peper 276, Corey Peer 266.

Individual series: Daryn Sylvester 700, Gordy Johnson 693, Brandon Winge 687.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 1137, Dalles Electrical 1056.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 3339, Hanjo Farms 3077.

Saturday Night Mixed Doubles Standings: Truhlsen Chiropractic 75.5-43.5, Fisk Trucking 61-58, Happy Campers 59.5-59.5, Tiger Express 59.5-59.5, Roller Coasters 57.5-61.5, The In-Laws 56.5-62.5, Eureka Bombers 56-63, Ten Pin Titans 50.5-68.5.

Women’s games: Dana Amundson 197, Rachel Carney 189, Jan Lehmann 183.

Women’s series: Dana Amundson 547, Rachel Carrney 504, Bev Warner 481.

Men’s games: Tim Katzmark 279, Rick K. Katzmark 277, Gene Braund 266.

Men’s series: Rick K. Katzmark 682, Roger Fisk 674, Tim Katzmark 650.

Team games with handicap: Fisk Trucking 918, Ten Pin Titans 912, Roller Coasters 896.

Team series with handicap: Roller Coasters 2542, Fisk Trucking 2517, Ten Pin Titans 2513.

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

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Cards notch first “V” under new coach

Jamison Gross makes a play against St. Croix Central in a game played last Saturday. The Cards hope to play five scheduled games in eight days starting this Friday. – Photos by Sue Tolan Luck 6, St. Croix Central 2

by Marty Seeger HAMMOND – The Cardinals flew to Hammond for a quick nonconference game under perfect conditions for baseball. Coach Wayne Severson-Dickinson nabbed the first victory of his coaching career as the team faced tough pitching.

Dickinson thought the kids played well but there is still room for improve-

ment, since it’s the first real action the team has seen outside all season long.

“The kids did a real good job and got their minds on what they’re supposed to be doing,” Dickinson said.

The Cards have a total of five games in eight days starting this Friday, so there’s definitely more baseball ahead for Luck.

Mitchell Larson makes a play in right field for the Cardinals.

Cody Richert connects against St. Croix Central on Saturday.

Golf league starting this spring CHISAGO LAKES, Minn. - A Monday night golf league for men and women ages 16 and older will be starting this spring.

The group will be playing the Chisago Lakes Golf Course in Lindstrom, Minn., at 5:30 p.m. usually on the first and third Mondays of each

month starting April 21. League dues are minimal (just $10 per person) plus applicable green fees.

Format for the league is four-person teams with individual games also. No additional handicap fees are necessary since a league handicap will be determined.

Scholar Athlete

This Links Players Golf League is dedicated to aiding fellowship among Christians, or those who enjoy being around Christians, while enjoying golf in the great outdoors.

Please contact Alliance Church of the Valley at 715-483-1100 for more infor-

LEADER S P O R T S S C O R E B O A R D BASEBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings

Team Luck Frederic Grantsburg Siren St. Croix Falls Unity Webster

Conf.

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Overall 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Coming up

Thursday, April 10 4:30 p.m. Siren/Web. at Shell Lake 5 p.m.

Grantsburg at Osecola Unity at Cameron Friday, April 11 5 p.m.

Northwood at Luck Glenwood City at Unity Saturday, April 12 4 p.m.

Grantsburg at Prescott Monday, April 14 5 p.m.

Frederic at Luck Unity at Grantsburg Siren/Web. at St. Croix Falls Unity at Grantsburg Tuesday, April 15 3 p.m.

Grantsburg at Metrodome 5 p.m.

Luck at Prairie Farm

TRACK & FIELD Coming up

UW-Platteville honored some of its outstanding athletic scholars Thursday, April 3, at the athletic department’s 12th-annual National Student Athlete Day luncheon. The Pioneers with the top GPAs from the fall semester invited a faculty member to join them at the luncheon. Former Frederic athlete Jacob Friberg was one of the athletic scholars on the list and is pictured with his track coach, Jim Nickasch. Friberg has a 4.0 GPA and is majoring in civil engineering. – Photo submitted

mation or to sign up. You can also visit www.stcroixalliance.com.

For more information, the league’s Web site is www.golfweb.ws/12812. submitted

Thursday, April 10 4 p.m.

Frederic at Spooner Grantsburg at Spooner Unity at Spooner Webster at Flambeau Luck at Siren 4:15 p.m. St. Croix Falls at Osceola Friday, April 11 4:30 p.m. St. Croix Falls at Somerset Tuesday, April 15 4:30 p.m. Frederic at Unity Grantsburg at Unity Webster at Unity Siren at Unity Luck at Clear Lake

SOFTBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings

Team Frederic Grantsburg Luck Siren St. Croix Falls Unity Webster

Conf.

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Coming up

Overall 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Thursday, April 10 5 p.m.

Frederic at Grantsburg Siren/Web. at Unity Luck at St. Croix Falls Friday, April 11 5 p.m.

Turtle Lake at Luck Saturday, April 12 11 a.m. Somerset at St. Croix Falls 1 p.m.

Mora at Webster 2 p.m.

Grantsburg at New Richmond 3:30 p.m. Braham at Webster Monday, April 14 5 p.m.

Frederic at Turtle Lake Luck at Shell Lake Tuesday, April 14 5 p.m.

Frederic at Webster Grantsburg at Luck Unity at St. Croix Falls

GOLF

Coming up

Thursday, April 10 TBA St. Croix Falls at Osceola Wednesday, April 16 9 a.m.

Grantsburg at Barron Webster at Barron Luck at Barron St. Croix Falls at Barron Unity at Barron

O UTDOORS

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

INTER! COUNTY LEADER

ATVs • BIRDING • BOATING • CAMPING • FISHING • HIKING • HUNTING • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

Size matters I sat back early Sunday morning with my fingers crossed, praying that the rain wouldn’t wash away any remnants of walkable ice the lakes. on Marty Ironically, a day earliSeeger er I was considering the possibility that my power auger The might not break through to the water. Bottom Line It was clearly enough for walking, and even driving as some proved later in the morning, but the honeycomb ice is slowly beginning to settle in, and ice is definitely on its way out. Soon anglers will be forced to don life jackets and attach planks to the bottom of their boots to bridge across receding ice along the shorelines. Once it gets to that point, I’ll probably throw the jig poles on the top shelf and transfer my reels to more summer savvy gear. But the fishing can be filled with action this time of year, and who knows, the way it looks right now we might still have some ice for the fishing opener, but let’s hope not.

Last Saturday was simply too good to waste inside, so I devised a plan to fill the power auger with gas and head to Bone Lake. I’ve been waiting for a solid perch bite there all season long and have yet to hit one to brag about.

Nearly every fish has been small in size, but since it’s relatively close to home,

getting skunked on size isn’t always such a waste of time. Plus I can always hop to the next lake over and try my luck there.

After scattering a half dozen holes, the fishing began with a dinky perch hauled in on the first drop. Sensing that it might be a common theme throughout the morning, I prepared myself for just a short time on the ice, but on the next try I hooked what felt like a snag–that was until it moved.

From a dinky perch to a fish that felt like solid brick was something I hadn’t felt in awhile; probably since my trip to Red Lake. But my light jig pole and 8pound test made the fish feel slightly heavier than an 18-inch walleye. The rod doubled with every pull, and bobbed sluggishly with every tug. The mind raced, my hands started to shake, and after about five minutes of slow going, I was still unclear as to what was on the other end. My only fear was that I’d never get a chance to see what the fish was. If lost, I’d have to come up with some sort of lie.

The slow head shakes and my inability to move the fish had me thinking solid gold scales and a white-tipped tail fin. The slip knot for my bobber had slid into the bail and I knew the fish was nearing the bottom of the ice. I peered cautiously down the hole only to feel the tip of the bend in the rod close tighter, and the line peeled out with a zing of a whining drag. This repeated itself about six different times for the next five minutes, before I finally caught glimpse of the emerald shine so commonly seen on Bone Lake. I had a feeling after the first couple of runs that it might be the mighty Esox. She

A small batch of perch lucky to have escaped the jaws of a cruising musky but not the frying pan. - Photo by Marty Seeger was close to 40 inches as far as I could tell and eventually came to a rest below the ice after what felt like close to 15 minutes, which was probably more like eight minutes. Either way, it was still a worthy battle.

I contemplated bringing her nose through the 2-foot deep hole and up to the surface, but realized the camera was conveniently located 30 feet away.

I devised a plan to try and keep the line tight while I stretched for the camera, but it failed as I knew it probably would, and the fish popped loose to fight someone else another day. It didn’t really matter. I couldn’t keep the fish anyway. The big game fish season has long been closed, and even if it was

open, I probably would have thrown her back.

As for the perch; well, they didn’t bite for another hour or so, as I’m sure the sight of a 40-inch musky thrashing below the ice for 10 minutes would turn just about any fish off. A few perch eventually came through the ice and I couldn’t get the bait down fast enough at certain times. It wasn’t the haul I was hoping for, and the fish mostly ran on the smaller side with the exception of a few jumbos, but it was certainly another momentous occasion.

Volunteers are working to prevent the spread of invasives SHELL LAKE — Volunteers across Wisconsin are preparing to meet aquatic invasive species head-on. This spring, volunteers will take a frontline defense against aquatic invasives by participating in the Clean Boats, Clean Waters Watercraft Inspection program. Trained volunteers will be staffed at boat landings to instruct boaters on how and where invasive species are most likely to hitch a ride into water bodies and how to perform watercraft inspections.

Washburn County Land and Water Department will host the Clean Boats,

Clean Waters workshop at the Spooner Agriculture Station on Saturday, April 26. The training workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. There is no cost to attend the workshop, but for a fee of $25, volunteers will be given a handbook and a resource kit that contains educational materials, a DVD, invasive species identification cards, watercraft inspection stickers, and T-shirts that can be worn during the watercraft inspections.

According to Erin Henegar, aquatic invasive species volunteer coordinator,

the training and resource materials provided in the workshop will help volunteers organize and conduct a boater education program in their community.

By performing boat and trailer checks, distributing informational brochures, and collecting suspect specimens, volunteers can make a difference in preventing the spread of invasive species.

“I believe this is only the tip of the iceberg for volunteer efforts in preventing invasive species spread,” said Julia Solomon, aquatic invasives education specialist. “With more communities

Luck community education longbow builders

The Luck Community Education course focusing on a longbow making is nearing the end of a nine-week process. Students met once a week for three hours to construct bows used not only for practice, but in hunting as well. Above, instructor Tony Jenson checks for proper bend in Luke Dobbe’s handmade longbow. – Photos submitted

Twelve students participated in the nine-week course on how to build a longbow through the Luck Community Education class taught by Tony Jenson.

Some of the members include back row (L to R): Gary Janacek, Paul Dobbe, Jenson, Luke Dobbe and Corrie Sundby. Front row: Tom Lind, Perry Anderson and Jason Faunce.

involved in protecting lake quality, I predict there will be more resource kits and workshops planned for other parts of the state.”

For reservations or directions, contact Lisa Gabriel at 715-468-4654.

Registration is limited to 25 participants, so call early. — from Washburn County Land and Water Department

Great Northern Outdoors Archery League Week 12 A League Deadnuts: Dustin G. 291, Ben A. 288, (67 points) Full Draw: Tony P. 286, Sheri B. 272 (52 points) Free Flight: Jeff B. 289, Sherri P. 261 (45 points) Shockers: Chad L. 275, Jason C. 271 (43 points) Stabilizers: Mark J. 269, Drew B. 258 (23 points) Spartanz: Brian S. 286, Nick R. 226 (14 points) The Kaws: Kyle J. 267, Andy W. 219 (10 points) B League Redneck Ind: Brent L. 292, Roy Z. 289 (66 points) GNO: Ross W. 270, Erika W. 199 (58 points) Team MJ: Jeremy J. 260, Cory M. 259 (50 points) Razors Edge: Brad S.

264, Zach S. 212 (34 points) Gameslayers: Bill S. 254, Gino L. 184 (32points) Highlanders: Bruce R. 270, Cori S. 180 (26 points) Anuke: Luke K. 249, Dan G. 120 (24 points) S & T: Tam H. 219, Steve K. 141 (10 points) Animal Lovers: Laurel G. 155, Maddie B. 121 (2 points)

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Dresser ushers out two trustees

Approves zoning for future hockey rink location

by Tammi Milberg DRESSER-The village of Dresser thanked two board trustees at the April 7 meeting: Richard Durand, who did not seek re-election this April and served a total of 28 years on the board, and Debbie Jacobson who served two partial terms on the board when vacancies needed to be filled.

Following the April election, this was the final board meeting for both trustees. Jacobson received the popular vote for an open seat on the board by write-in votes, but Jacobson was not running as a candidate, or as a write-in.

She did not accept the write-in vote, indicating she did not have the time to dedicate to the board. The board has yet to determine who will take the empty seat. Neil Gustafson ran as a write-in for the seat, but the board did not indicate who they will have fill that trustee seat at this time.

Brian Raddatz was elected to the board and will fill the seat vacated by Durand. Jim Rochford Jr. ran for re-election and secured his seat on the board for another term.

Trustees will be sworn in at a later date.

The board commended Durand for his service during the meeting, passing a resolution of thanks. Village President Rick Flandrena said a few words on behalf of the board and the village, “The reason we passed the resolution of thanks is for Richard's 28 years of service, which is unbelievable,” he said.

“The village of Dresser and I am thankful for you being here and for your years of service. You have seen a world of change.”

In other business, the board held a public hearing and later approved an amendment to the zoning ordinance in the industrial area to include recreational construction or facilities. The ordinance was passed to allow for the proposal of an ice hockey rink to be constructed in that area for River Valley Hockey Association, a proposal that was not considered by the village as public knowledge at the onset of the request for rezoning, but has been made public knowledge following an article in the Osceola Sun last week.

The proposal is for a 6,300-square-foot outdoor hockey rink building including a recreational skating rink, regulation hockey rink, public seating, restrooms, locker rooms and concessions. The

that issue, but the village won't see dramatic results right away.

In related news, the board approved a deduct method for outside water meters and that will help the homeowner paying for water and sewer as well as the village for billing purposes.

The board will approve the rates set by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission once they send the application after approving the water meter installation Monday night. Residents can apply to have a meter installed and would pay a set-up fee to be determined by the PSCW, but that is not known at this time. “More to follow,” commented Rick Flandrena about the issue.

Richard Durand was honored for 28 total years of service on the village board for Dresser on April 7 at the regular meeting. Durand first was elected to the board in 1980 and ran nearly consecutive terms totaling 28 years.

He did not seek re-election this April to the board and April 7 was his last official meeting.

Village board President Rick Flandrena presented Durand with a plaque of appreciation on behalf of the board and the village. -Photos by Tammi Milberg

Richard Durand, standing next to Debbie Jacobson, who is also leaving the village board after serving two partial terms. The two were thanked for their service and cake was served following the regular board meeting, which was the last official meeting for both trustees.

River Valley Hockey Association is made up of valley-area youth.

Currently the River Valley Hockey Association uses the ice rink at the Polk County Fairgrounds in St. Croix Falls, along Simonson Road, as their practice and home game location.

The move to Dresser would be made possible by a donation of land by Ivan Bowen of Trap Rock. The land is located in the industrial-zoned area in the village. The board still has to approve site plans before the project is a go and construction can begin. The approval of

amending the zoning code is the first step.

Audit report The board also discussed the audit which again indicated a shortfall in the sewer utility. Last year at this time, the board found out the sewer utility operated at an $84,000 loss, this year, it increased to a $96,000 operating loss.

The board also experienced an $18,000 loss in the water utility this year. The board indicated that the new rate increases approved would help offset

Hall cleanup/rental fees The community hall has lost its cleaning staff. The Lions of Dresser dropped the task due to not enough membership to commit to the cleanup of the hall after events take place. The village is looking for a new organization or individuals to take over the responsibility. For now, the village employees are cleaning up after events until that position has been filled. The board discussed the preference of having a nonprofit organization do the cleanup before placing a notice in the paper to hire someone. The village charges $75 per renter for cleanup, which goes to the persons or organization responsible for the cleanup.

In related news, the board increased the rental fees for the hall, noting that they want people to use the hall and have the community benefit from its use, but because of increases in water, heat and electric prices, the hall is being rented out at a loss.

“We are still going to operate at a loss with this increase,” stated Flandrena.

“But at least it will take a bite out of it.”

The village hall rates will be $400 for regular hall rental, $500 for commercial/industrial rental, and additional day fees of $75 for rentals. All events booked prior to Monday's passage of the increase will be charged the original price. Those booking after Monday will pay the increased rental price.

Special dates: • The board approved spring solid waste cleanup dates of April 14 to May 2.

• Spring brush and leaf removal dates are April 21 to May 16.

• Arbor Day will be celebrated at Dresser Elementary on April 25.

• A villagewide garage sale for Dresser will take place Thursday, April 24, through Saturday, April 26.

Feingold's statement on Iraq

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Below are the prepared remarks Wisconsin U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold planned to deliver Tuesday during the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on Iraq with General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker.

“Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.

And thank you both for coming again to testify here today.

“I'd also like to thank you both for your long and distinguished service to this country. While we may not see eye to eye on the current situation in Iraq or the way forward, I have great respect for the difficult work you're undertaking - the outcome of which will be with us for many, many years.

“I hope you won't take it personally when I say that I wish we were also hearing today from those who could help us look at Iraq from a broader perspective. The participation at this hearing of those charged with regional and

global responsibilities would have given us the chance to discuss how the war in Iraq is undermining our national security. It might have helped us answer the most important question we face - not 'are we winning or losing in Iraq?' but 'are we winning or losing in the global fight against al-Qaida?”’

“Like many Americans, I am gravely concerned by how bogged down we are in Iraq. Our huge, open-ended military presence there is not only undermining our ability to respond to the global threat posed by al-Qaida, but it is also creating greater regional instability, serving as a disincentive for Iraqis to reach political reconciliation, straining our military, and piling up debt for future generations to repay.

“I am pleased that violence in parts of the country has declined, but as the increase in violence in Mosul and recent events in Basra and now Baghdad indicate, long-term prospects for reconcilia-

tion appear to be just as shaky as they were before the surge. In fact, the drop in violence could have serious costs, as it is partly attributable to the deals we have struck with local militias, all of which could make national reconciliation that much more difficult.

“We need to redeploy our troops from Iraq, and I am disappointed that you are calling for a halt in troop reductions, General Petraeus, because the presence of about 140,000 troops in Iraq will exacerbate the conflict, not stabilize it, and it will certainly not contribute to our overall national security. Some have suggested that we should stay in Iraq until reconciliation occurs. They have it backwards - our departure is likely to force factions to the negotiating table in an attempt to finally create a viable power-sharing agreement.

“If we redeploy, Iraq will no longer be the 'cause celebre' for jihadists, breeding a deep resentment of U.S. involvement

in the Muslim world,' as the Intelligence Community so clearly stated. Iran, as well as Turkey, Syria, and other regional actors, will have to decide if Iraqi instability is really in their interests once we are no longer on the hook. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we will be able to adequately address what must be our top priority - the threat posed by al-Qaida around the globe, and particularly its safe haven in the AfghanistanPakistan region. Nothing could be clearer than the need to refocus all our instruments of national power to combat this threat.

“Redeployment does not mean abandoning Iraq. We must work for a peaceful outcome in that country. But if we continue to leave our military caught up in the sectarian divisions that consume Iraq, we will be doing so at grave risk to Iraq's progress, the region's stability and our own national security.” - from the office of Sen. Feingold

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

Noted historian Helen White dies

Memorial service planned

TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. - Helen McCann White, historian of the St. Croix Valley and longtime Taylors Falls resident, passed away April 3, at the age of 91.

White wrote for and published The Dalles Visitor newspaper for 30 years. In 2007, White was honored by the Polk County Historical Society as History Woman of the Year. She moved from the St. Croix Valley in 1999, to Woodbury, Minn., until last year, when she came to live with family in St. Paul.

During her long and productive life, she aimed to show that "the general public would read and support any amount of scholarly historical writing, if it were written in an interesting manner."

She was born in Minneapolis on Oct. 16, 1916, the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth McCann. Her father was a Methodist minister, and she lived in nine small towns in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa during her youth.

As a student at Hamline University (1935-39), she worked at the Minnesota Historical Society as an assistant archivist.

While attending graduate school at the University of Minnesota, she met Henry Gilbert White; they married in 1941 and had three children, Barbara, Timothy and Bruce. Gilbert's work as a resource economist took the family to

Helen McCann White cities across the U.S. and to Tokyo, Manila, and Paris. During these years, she researched, wrote, and taught. They spent many summers in Minnesota, living on the family's vacation property near Almelund.

In 1965, when the Whites moved back to Minnesota, Helen returned to work at the Minnesota Historical Society. There she pioneered a program of microfilm publication for important manuscript collections; she supervised the Society's acquisition of the Northern Pacific Railroad papers; she conducted oral history interviews of North Shore fishermen; and she worked on early applications of computers in indexing history.

In 1970, three years after her husband's death, she left the society, moved

to Taylors Falls, and began publishing The Dalles Visitor, an annual newspaper highlighting the history of the Upper St. Croix Valley. In hundreds of solidly researched, well written articles, she presented the history of these communities to broad audiences of residents and tourists, enriching the lives of many who were surprised to discover how interesting history can be. "People don't see the connection between their roots and themselves," White once said. "But when you can relate history to the lives of everyday people, then they begin to understand it, to appreciate it." The paper is still published by Joanne Frank and well supported by the businesses of the area.

White's first home in Taylors Falls was the Schottmuller Building. While restoring that building, she hired local craftsmen and artisans to renovate a modest side building, the former Taylors Falls Jail, into the one of Minnesota's first bed-and-breakfast operations.

Described by Minneapolis Tribune columnist Dave Wood as "a lockup worthy of a former Watergate criminal," the jail demonstrated that a run-down building of historical merit could become an object of local pride-and contribute to the community's tax rolls.

After living in St. Paul for a few years in the 1990s, she moved back to Taylors Falls to take on the renovation of a nondescript, small, old house on Main Street. Her book about that experience, “A Little Yellow House,” was published in 2001.

White wrote several other books.

“Ho! for the Gold Fields,” about the expeditions from Minnesota to Montana, won an Award of Merit from the American Association for State and Local History. “The Tale of a Comet and Other Stories” tells the eight stories of fascinating characters and unusual events that she uncovered in unlikely places. “Saving the River” is a history of the St. Croix River Association. She wrote about Minnesota in the 1830s in “Henry Sibley's First Years at St. Peters or Mendota.”

Her work as a community activist brought her into areas of controversy.

After learning of the destruction of important early records in the Stillwater Courthouse, she lobbied for state legislation to reform the state's historical records preservation process. She raised the ire of some when she protested the burning of a historic building on Angel Hill.

She served on the State Historic Records Advisory Board from 1976 to 1982. In 1984 White was named Independent Scholar of the Year by the Minnesota Humanities Commission. In 2003 the Chisago County Historical Society recognized her as Historian of the Year.

There will be a memorial gathering for her at the Taylors Falls Memorial Community Center, in the old train depot, on Sunday, April 20, at 1 p.m. submitted by Ann Regan

Food co-op plans pie, ice cream and dance fundraiser

Money will go to improve co-op's building façade

LUCK - A pie, ice cream and dance fundraiser Friday, April 25, at the West Denmark Hall will help raise funds to make improvements to the façade of the Natural Alternative Food Co-op store in downtown Luck.

The co-op hopes to raise all of the $15,000 needed to restore the brickwork and maintain the building's historical integrity. What is not raised by this summer may be provided by a new loan program through the village, aimed at improving downtown business facades.

“The village board thinks this fundraising

campaign is fantastic and is fully supportive of the food co-op restoring (their building),” noted village President Rich Callister. He said the money available through the Façade Loan Program is available for exactly this type of project.

“Safety is our number one concern,” said Stephanie Lundeen, a co-op director.

The co-op is also holding a Buy a Brick campaign. Bricks are available at the co-op store for $5 each.

The fundraiser April 25 will be held from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and feature a silent auction, with music and dance instruction by Duck for the Oyster. Admission is $10 with a $25 family rate. - Gary King with submitted information

Judy Alverson, manager of the food co-op, and Eddie Johnson are shown in front of the store's Buy a Brick display. Store hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome. - Special photos

Plywood bracing has been installed at both corners of the Natural Alternative Food Co-op building in downtown Luck to secure the failing brickwork.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Frederic Nursing and Rehab deficiency-free survey On March 26, Frederic Nursing and Rehab earned a deficiency-free survey from the Office of Quality Assurance, State of Wisconsin, Department of Health and Family Services.

All skilled nursing facilities are inspected annually to evaluate the services and care they give to their residents as well as renew state licensure and certification.

The inspection addresses quality of care and life issues as well as physical environment.

This deficiency-free survey demonstrates the commitment by staff to exceptional resident care, a lot to smile about! – Photo submitted

Hraychuck to host listening sessions WEBSTER/SIREN/MILLTOWN/BA LSAM LAKE —State Rep. Ann Hraychuck, D-Balsam Lake, will be holding listening sessions on Monday, April 14, and Tuesday, April 15, in Webster, Siren, Milltown, and Balsam Lake to speak with local community members of the 28th District about their concerns regarding legislative and state issues.

“Staying in touch with my constituents throughout the year is one of my top priorities as a state representative. I think it is important that I spend that time in the district holding listening sessions and talking with constituents about their ideas, questions and concerns.”

2 to 3 p.m., Balsam Lake Village Hall, 404 Main Street These listening sessions are some of many that she will be holding in the upcoming weeks. Please feel free to contact Hraychuck’s office if she can be of further assistance on this or any legislative matter via phone at 1-888-529-0028 or e-mail at rep.hraychuck@ legis.wi.gov. – from the office of Rep. Hraychuck

Monday, April 14 10- 11 a.m. - Webster Village Hall, 7505 Main Street West Noon to 1 p.m. - Siren Village Hall, 24049 1st Avenue South Tuesday, April 15, 2008 10 to 11 a.m., Milltown Village Hall, 89 Main Street West

FREDERIC – The Frederic American Legion Post 249 and Auxiliary will meet Monday, April 21, at 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall.

They wil begin serving their annual Sunday pancake breakfast on Sunday, May 25 from 6:30 to 10 a.m. – from the Legion

Legion Post to begin pancake breakfasts

Six more Tommy Moose join the herd

Women of the Moose Chapter 1819, have again donated six Tommy Moose stuffed animals to the sheriff’s department. They will be carried with them to give to children who have either been in an accident or have suffered a tragic mishap.

Pictured (L to R) are: Corrine Root, chaplain, and Fern Woods, chairman, presenting the stuffed animals to sheriff Dean Roland. – Photo by Ro Endresen

www.the-leader.net Spaghetti dinner to benefit Humane Society of Burnett County

SIREN – The spaghetti dinner and silent auction will be held Saturday, April 26, at the Moose Lodge on Hwy. 70 north of Siren, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. to benefit the Humane Society of Burnett County. The cost for dinner will be $7 for adults and $4 for kids under 12 years. A raffle drawing will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the dinner (need not be present to win). Grand prize is a hotair balloon ride and dinner for two at Famous Dave’s in Stillwater. Second

place will receive dinner for two at Adventures Restaurant and a movie at the Timbers Theatre in Siren. Raffle tickets are $3 each or six tickets for $15, and can be purchased at the shelter.

Please call the shelter at 866-4096 for more information. Supplemental funding has been applied for from the PolkBurnett chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. – submitted by HSBC

Burnett Community Public Library Join the Circle of Knowledge – Draw a picture and win.

Attention: kids 11 and younger. Pick up a coloring sheet at your local library.

Celebrate your favorite book by drawing a picture about it. It can be a character, event, scene or anything you liked about the book. Return the drawing to the librarian when completed by April 14. What will you win? Give a completed coloring sheet to the librarian and you’ll win a certificate for a free single scoop of frozen custard in a cake cone or dish to be redeemed at your participating neighborhood Culver’s. And you can enter your name for a chance to win a Culver’s kickball or mini blue lantern.

Libraries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of National Library Week all during April. National Library Week is April 13-19.

New music CDs: “Trisha Yearwood’s Greatest Hits” “Everything is Fine” Josh Turner “Glory Train” Randy Travis “Lee Ann Womack Greatest Hits” CDs on order:

“Death of a Gentle Lady” by M.C. Beaton “Clouds of Witness” by Dorothy L. Sayers “Before Green Gables” by Budge Wilson “Village Diary” by Miss Read “Searching for Paradise in Parker, PA”

by Kris Radish “Naughty Neighbor” by Janet Evanovich Books on order: “Maximum Ride 4: The Final Warning” by James Patterson “Blood Orange Brewing” by Laura Childs “Dragonwell Dead” by Laura Childs “The Silver Needle Murder” by Laura Childs “A Touch of Grace” by Lauraine Snelling “A Promise for Ellie” by Lauraine Snelling “Is Your Teen Stressed or Depressed?”

by Dr. Arch Hart “Children’s Treasury” by Max Lucado “Beauty for Ashes” by Joyce Meyer

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

Luck students score well in competitions

Kindergarten numbers stable for next year

by Gregg Westigard LUCK – Luck high school students did very well last month in several competitions, High School Principal Mark Gobler told the school board Monday night at their monthly meeting. The meeting was postponed a week because of the March 31 storm.

Gobler said that 27 students qualified for the state forensics competition. In the FFA competition, the cattle team are going to the state meet. And finally, ten students received the highest band awards in solo ensemble. Names of the winning students will be in next week’s Leader.

The Elementary school held its kindergarten registration and had 35 families show up.

The school expects a kindergarten enrollment of about 39 to 40 students next fall, up slightly from the present class of 37. However, Administrator Rick Palmer pointed out to the Leader

that this does not replace the 55 seniors who are graduating. The district is waiting to see if it receives a grant to start a four-year-old kindergarten program.

Grandparents day was held at the same time as the kindergarten registration, Elementary Principal John Nichols told the board, with more participants than ever before. He said it was a fun day for everyone.

Luck will be able to continue the SAGE program, an enhancement program, for its second graders next year.

Due to a class size that would not let the district meet the 15 students to one teacher with the present division but too small to add another teacher and class, Luck has granted a waver for the second grade class to exceed the ratio for the coming year.

The calendar for the 2008-09 school year was approved by the board.

Students will return to school on September 2 and have their last day of classes on June 4, 2009. Seniors will be done with their classes on May 22 next year, allowing them a week to finish up any work before their graduation May

29, 2009. Students receive 180 days of class time.

The district made an effort to have its calendar match the Frederic calendar, making it easier for the teachers who have classes in both districts.

Open enrollment In administration notes, Palmer told the board that an enrollment audit by the state showed that the district count was exactly right.

But the district will lose more students than it gains through open enrollment next year. Palmer told the Leader this is the first time Luck has lowered its student count in the open enrollment process.

The district will gain 15 students but lose 20. Of those opting out of the district, eight have never actually been seen in the school.

The district will offer a summer swimming program again this summer from July 14 through the 25th. Busses will take students to the Unity school pool.

Luck special education students will

now have the services of a teacher one day a week. Funding has been received for school psychologist Kristi Fenning to work the special needs students 20% of her time.

Lastly, Jackie Cardinal will be retiring at the end of the year. She has taught junior high English and reading at Luck for 11 years.

Every photo is in color in our e-edition Check it out @ www.the-leader.net

State patrol honors police communications operators STATEWIDE - During the National Public Safety Telecommunications Week, April 13-19, the Wisconsin State Patrol will honor its police communications operators, who dispatch state troopers and commercial motor vehicle inspectors to where they are needed and coordinate an overall response with other first responders in emergency situations.

The state patrol has approximately 58 police communications operators and supervisors working at communications centers in DeForest, Tomah, Waukesha, Fond du Lac, Wausau, Eau Claire and

Spooner.

“Our dedicated and skilled police communications operators at seven posts throughout the state are responsible for the operation of our busy communications centers,” says state patrol Superintendent David Collins.

“Using specialized equipment, police communications operators provide information to officers in the field that is vital for effective enforcement actions and responses to life-threatening emergencies, like traffic crashes.

“In emergency situations, police communications operators must make sound decisions quickly. They also must handle numerous inquiries from the public and the media. Although our police communications operators work behind the scenes, they deserve recognition for their instrumental role in protecting the safety of our citizens and visitors using Wisconsin highways.” – from the Wisconsin State Patrol

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents March 19, 12 a.m., Lincoln Township, parking lot at Duck’s Bar, 1255 CTH JJ; #1—Legally parked vehicle owned by KIM L. ZELINSKI, Amery; #2—Hit & Run Vehicle. Unit 1 was legally parked at Duck’s Bar. When the owner of the vehicle came out, she found that the driver’s side door and been struck by another vehicle.

March 24, 4:08 a.m., St. Croix Falls Twp., Hwy. 35 at Hwy. 8, NATHANIAL D. RICE, 34, Centuria, was eastbound on Hwy. 8, intending to make a left turn onto Hwy. 35 (N junction).

The subject was going too fast and failed to negotiate a turn and struck two signs. Driver received a minor injury (unknown whether seat belt worn) and cited for OMVWI. March 24, 7:55 a.m., Lincoln Twp., Hwy. 46, 50 feet south of Cameron Bridge Drive, #1— JAMES L. HUGHES, 81, Amery; #2—KAREN M. LITTLEFIELD, 62, Turtle Lake, (unit 1) was traveling northbound on Hwy. 46. Unit 2 was traveling southbound on Hwy. 46. Unit 1 began to make a left turn into a driveway. It turned directly into the path of unit 2.

Unit 2 tried to brake but could not avoid unit 1. The cars collided, causing damage to the front of unit 2 and the passenger’s side of unit 1. Driver of unit 2 received a minor injury (transported by EMS/wearing seat belt). Driver of unit 1 was issued citation for failure to yield the right of way.

March 25, 6:30 a.m., Milltown Township, Hwy. 35, .2 mile south of 230th Avenue, GWENDOLYN C. ROUTE, 58, Frederic, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 35. The roads were snow and ice-covered. At this time the vehicle struck an icy area. Unit 1 began to spin out and entered the ditch to the right (west). Unit 1 rode up the steep embankment while slowing. Unit 1 then tipped and rolled over, coming to rest on its wheels, facing southwest.

March 25, 7:50 a.m., Garfield Twp, CTH F, .1 mile west of

143rd Street, JAMIE R. NADEAU, 17, Amery, was traveling eastbound on CTH F. The roads were wet. As unit 1 driver began to negotiate a curve to the left, the road became slippery. Unit 1 began to spin. The driver attempted to steer but the vehicle spun out into the north ditch. After entering the ditch, unit 1 struck a tree. Unit 1 came to rest facing east.

March 26, 1:30 a.m., Clear Lake Twp., County Line Avenue, .2 mile east of 10th Street, DOUGLAS L. NELSON, 22, Clear Lake, was traveling eastbound on County Line Avenue.

Tire marks showed the vehicle had crossed into the westbound traffic lane and the left side tires left the pavement. The driver steered right, leaving scuff marks. After crossing back into the eastbound lane of travel, the driver applied improper left steer, causing the vehicle to yaw. Unit 1 crossed the westbound travel lane and entered the north ditch. After entering the ditch, unit 1 struck a phone/cable box. Unit 1 continued, then struck a fence. After knocking down the fence, unit 1 continued into a field. Unit 1 then drove out of the field, striking the fence in a separate area.

Unit 1 fled the scene, failing to notify the police. Driver cited for hit and run to property adjacent to a highway.

March 30, 1:15 a.m., St. Croix Falls Twp., Hwy. 35, .40 mile north of 150th Avenue, #1— JOSHUA M. HARVEY, 19, Luck; #2—JUSTIN C. HUGHES, 19, Webster; unit 1 was southbound on Hwy. 35, crossed the centerline and struck unit 2, which was northbound and taking evasive action into the east ditch. Both units came to final rest in the east ditch area. A passenger in unit 1, MARIA A.R. MORALES, 18, Osceola, received injuries (wearing seat belt) and was transported by EMS. Driver of unit 1 cited for OMVWI. March 31, 2:49 p.m., Black Brook Twp., Hwy. 46, .25 south of 30th Avenue, DENNIS SULLENDER, 39, Amery, was trav-

eling southbound on Hwy. 46.

Unit 1 attempted to merge into another lane. Unit 1 slid into the west ditch and struck several trees. Unit 1 was pulling a car dolly trailer. Driver cited for operating without a valid driver’s license and driving too fast for conditions.

March 31, 4:23 p.m., Apple River Twp., Hwy. 8 at Hwy. 46 south, #1—SHERI L. RASMUSSEN, 50, Amery; #2— ANGELA M. STANISZ, 20, St. Croix Falls; Unit 1 was westbound on Hwy. 8. Unit 2 was eastbound on Hwy. 8. Unit 1 pulled into the turning lane and was slowing down, preparing to turn southbound on Hwy. 46.

Driver of unit 2 lost control of the vehicle. Unit 2 began turning in a counterclockwise motion. Unit 2 entered the westbound lane of traffic. Unit 2 struck unit 1 on the front driver side portion of the vehicle. Unit 2 continued to spin before coming to rest on the roadway. Driver of unit 2 was cited for operating without a valid DL and failure to control vehicle.

March 31, 4:45 p.m., Lorain Twp., CTH E, .5 mile south of 330th Avenue, BROOCKE M. MOTT, 30, Frederic, was southbound on CTH E/15th Street.

Unit 1 slid out of control and entered the east ditch. Unit 1 hit

a pile of dirt. Driver received a minor injury (wearing seat belt) (no EMS).

Other incidents Sometime between March 11 and March 28 a break-in occurred to two outbuildings on the STEVEN L. PETERSON (Lake Elmo, Minn.) property in rural Frederic. The cable, which extends across his driveway, was cut, also.

March 30, two outbuildings owned by RON J. PETERSON (Delavan) had been entered, rural Frederic.

March 28, catalytic converters were taken from LAD AUTO CRUSHING, RR Turtle Lake.

March 31, PATRICIA M. WYSS, Clear Lake, reported

mailbox vandalism.

March 31, gas drive-off occurred at the LAKE MAGNOR STORE, RR Clayton.

March 30, KEVIN A. SCHMIDT, RR Frederic, report-

ed a burglary had occurred to outbuildings at his property.

Taken were a Johnson-Evinrude 721, 16” bar chain saw and a Stihl 44, 14” bar chain saw.

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Burnett County sheriff’s report Arrests Town of Sand Lake, April 1: Christina M. Merrill, 24, Siren, was arrested on a probation violation. Noah R. Tijerina, 30.

Hertel, was cited for operating after suspension, failure to dim headlights and operating left of center. Anthony E. Reynolds, 25, Webster, was arrested for possession of THC. Town of Swiss, April 4: John B. Shabaiash, 24, Hinckley, Minn., was cited for a domestic battery.

Village of Siren, April 4: Jamie R. Roy, 23, Eau Claire, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Town of Meenon, April 5: Brian K. Ford, 41, Webster, arrested for domestic battery.

Justin J. Ford, 17, Webster, was arrested for a forgery complaint.

Town of Swiss, April 6: Steven C. Mishler, 35, Danbury, was arrested for domestic battery.

Burnett County warrants Sage L. Aggerholm, 33, Augusta, commitment, April 3.

Kristian A. Bartel, 25, Hinckley, Minn., commitment, April 3.

Teresa A. Bergan, 36, Duluth, Minn., commitment, April 3.

John M. Beuchner, 25, Brooklyn Center, Minn., commitment, April 3.

Tanya L. Mack, 18, Grantsburg, commitment, April 3.

Marcus R. Maurstad, 33, Brainerd, Minn., commitment, April 3.

Mark E. Schultz, 52, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, April 3.

David L. Weller, 22, Webster, commitment, April 3.

Michelle M. Westly, 26, Minneapolis, Minn., commitment, April 3.

Molly E. Harens, 22, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, April 4.

Ricky V. Daniels, 34, Danbury, warrant – failure to

Other incidents Town of Meenon, March 25: Calvin E. Petersen, Webster, reported a five-gallon gas can and one gallon of gas taken from his property. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Anderson, March 29: Terry A. Glenna, Spooner, reported building materials stolen from his property. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Webb Lake, March 31: Hans T. Hagen, Danbury, reported an attempted burglary of his home. Nothing appeared

to be missing. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Trade Lake, March 31: Jeffery R. Ormston, Grantsburg, reported an air compressor and a high-lift jack missing from a barn. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Scott, March 31: McKenzie Landing Bar was burglarized.

Money, free-drink chips, cigarettes and possibly brandy was reported missing.

The incident is under investigation.

Burnett Co. criminal court Michael A. Blatt, 24, Webster, cracked or damaged windshield, $160.80.

Jeri L. Voltz, 47, Eagle River, driving the wrong way on divided highway, $160.80.

Carmen L. Taylor, 22, Webster, violation of child safety-restraint requirements, $160.80.

Georgiana J. Carson, 24, Shell Lake, operate without a valid license, $186.00.

Scott J. Burton, 41, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $113.00.

Thomas R. Matzke, 22, Green Bay, speeding, $160.80.

Jeremy J. Paulson, 25, Grantsburg, OWI, $793.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked eight months.

Rose M. Pumper, 63, Webster, OWI, $665.50, alcohol assessment, license revoked six months.

Emily G. Badura, 28, Durand, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Sharon A. Beaupre, 51, Gordon, issue worthless check, $159.53 restitution, $243.00.

James W. Moravec, 23, Birchwood, bail jumping, $249.00; twice.

Burnett County deaths Lyle R. Pardun, 67, Swiss, March 26.

Cindy M. Teeman, 48, Rock Creek, Minn., March 29.

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Real Estate

Town of Siren, April 3: Mary C. Hirst, New Richmond, reported fishing gear and two wooden folding chairs taken from a cabin. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Roosevelt, April 4: Donald L. Waage, St. Paul, Minn., reported 110 feet of copper tubing taken from a basement. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Wood River, April 6: Richard Peterson, Grantsburg, reported damage to his mailbox.

The incident is under investigation.

Town of Grantsburg, April 6: Rachael A. Trittelwitz, Grantsburg, reported damage to her mailbox. The incident is under investigation.

Burnett Co. marriage licenses Ronald R. Meyer, Concord, N.Y., and Mary K. Gomulak, Blaine, April 4.

Travis T. Gingras, Daniels, and Kathleen A. Gavitt, Daniels, April 4.

Notices

Burnett County civil court NU Island Partners, LLC vs.

Pam Hillman, Grantsburg, $672.62.

Arrow Financial Services LLC vs. Debra Powell, Siren, $1,375.33.

Arrow Financial Services LLC vs. Kimberly Schultz, Siren, $2,745.31.

Capital One Bank vs. David P. Stromberg, Webster, $1,938.86.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Notices

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Notices / Employment Opportunities

Notices / Employment

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

Employment / Notices

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

Bottling maple syrup

Very proud of their little bottles of maple syrup, Davin Lindh and Mari Swanson might be the next generation to produce maple syrup on the Lindh farm near Frederic. syrup is bottled about three days a week, year-round as orders come in.

Once bottled, the syrup goes throughout the Midwest, and sometimes further. Recently a pallet was shipped to Japan, and Anderson says that he ships about four pallets to Japan a year.

To aid the production of local syrup,

Norman Anderson boxes up Anderson Pure Maple Syrup for shipping. — Photos by Sherill Summer

by Sherill Summer POLK COUNTY – Simply put, maple syrup is made from maple sap that has been cooked down until it is 66.5percent sugar. As with most things, however, the devil is in the details. How many taps to pound? How to collect the sap?

Where will helping hands come from if needed? How to cook, filter and bottle the syrup? And finally, what do with the syrup produced?

For most syrup producers, answers to these basic questions evolve over time, and many small-time producers do not give any thought to distribution or marketing, since the syrup is for personal use only. Everyone who wants to enjoy pure maple syrup, but does not make their own, usually must rely on producers who do think about marketing and distribution, at least on a limited scale.

Just as the methods vary from producer to producer, so does the scale of marketing and distribution for those who wish to make the production of maple syrup more than a hobby.

Here are two examples of maple syrup producers from Polk County that sell syrup to the public, but on very different scales.

Duane and Lynn Lindh of Frederic make syrup on their farm outside of Frederic. Duane has been making syrup since he was 10 years old, and as with so many producers, his production has evolved from humble origins to a comfortable setup that includes the Sap to Syrup House with an evaporator that efficiently cooks syrup, a lean-to nearby filled with neat stacks of wood, and a separate commercial kitchen for filtering and bottling sap. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture has inspected and approved of the operation, and so the Lindhs are licensed maple syrup producers.

They aim for about 200 gallons of syrup a year, and to get this amount of syrup, they tap 500 buckets and purchase from six more people who are collecting sap.

About 60 percent of the syrup is sold off the farm. The remainder is sold at Daffler’s Quality Meats in Frederic, Natural Alternative Cooperative in Luck and the Frederic Farmers Market.

They run a 20-percent special on syrup throughout April, and sales have been brisk off the farm. Usually the Lindhs have sold all of their maple syrup by December or January.

Basically the Lindhs are a small, seasonal operation, but if all of the maple syrup were produced on this scale, few outside the Great Lakes states, Ontario, Quebec, and the New England states would have pure maple syrup.

Supermarkets, likewise, demand that syrup be distributed on a larger scale.

Much of this market is filled by large, publicly owned packagers that are part of conglomerates, but not all of it.

Anderson Maple Syrup between Luck and Cumberland is family owned, but has become one of the largest packagers and distributors of maple syrup in the Midwest, says owner Steve Anderson, the third generation of Andersons to operate Anderson’s Maple Syrup.

At one time, the Andersons were tapping 17,000 to 18,000 buckets, but even with this much syrup produced on-site, it produced only about 10 percent of the syrup they needed to fill orders for their syrup. Over time, the making of syrup on-site was eliminated, and so Anderson buys all the syrup needed to fill orders.

Anderson does buy syrup from as far away as Maine, but would prefer to buy from local producers. He will buy any amount from local producers, even as small an amount as 5 gallons.

Syrup properly stored keeps indefinitely, although the syrup is reheated and filtered just before bottling, which returns a fresh maple flavor that might have been lost in storage. Anderson uses all the syrup he buys to fill orders for the four different labels he distributes and markets. He also occasionally fills orders for private labels. Maple

Anderson sells all the supplies needed to make maple syrup, from evaporators, filters, tubing, tools and spiles to bottles and more, making Anderson’s one of the three major sugar bush suppliers in Wisconsin.

Although selling supplies is only about 20 percent of overall business, Anderson says it an important component of his business because he is making connections with local producers.

He is always willing to educate producers on proper methods to improve local syrup and give overall advice.

It is probably not surprising that Anderson keeps a close eye on the maple syrup market. He says that demand for maple syrup is growing about 10 percent a year, but production is not growing as fast. The result is that the price of syrup is rising. Anderson has had to raise his price by 50 percent in the last three years, after nearly 10 years without any increase at all.

Duane Lindh says much the same thing about the syrup market and has had to raise his price this year as well.

This shows that since both Anderson and Lindh agree on the syrup market, whatever the scale of production, it is still a business.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - APRIL 9, 2008

M e mor abi l i a fr om a M u n c hki n One of movie Munchkins sends display for Webster play

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - She’s 84 years old now and living in Arizona, but Margaret (Williams) Pelligrini wanted to send something special to go on display at the Webster Schools presentation of “The Wizard of Oz,” so she had a couple of relatives drop off a few things.

But these were more than “a few things.” These were special memorabilia from a special person. Pelligrini was one of the Munchkins in the original 1939 movie of “The Wizard of Oz,” and she sent some of her personal collection of items from her part in that movie.

It’s one of those stories that really shouldn’t have happened. Pelligrini didn’t know about “Oz” in Webster, in fact probably didn’t even know there is a Webster. But Kim Stypula, daughter of Nancy Meindel, the Webster production’s director, just happens to be a nurse in Spooner who just happened to mention her mother and the play to another nurse. And the nurse just happened to have some relatives who knew some relatives of someone who’d been

On display at the Webster Schools production of “The Wizard of Oz” was a special collection of memorabilia from Margaret (Williams) Pelligrini. Pelligrini was one of the Munchkins in the 1939 MGM movie “The Wizard of Oz.” - Photo

by Carl Heidel in that “Oz” movie.

From there the connection went down to Pelligrini’s niece, Phyllis Sabar, and grandniece, Denise Sabar, in Antioch, Ill. And of course it reached all the way out to Pelligrini herself.

So Phyllis and Denise drove up from Antioch to Webster, bringing some of Aunt Margaret’s special memories from her days as a Munchkin, just in time for the play, just so that Webster could connect with a generous little Munchkin

who had had a part in the beginning of all this.

Just goes to show what big hearts can live in some little people.

Wi n d g e n e ra te s b ra i n sto r m fo r l o c al in v e nt o r Bill Kurtz seeks ideas, funding, for getting his JSI Wind/Solar device into development

by Gary King ST. CROIX FALLS – It’s not unusual for Bill Kurtz to find his brain working overtime – sometimes into the early hours of the morning.

And usually those extra thoughts pay off.

Not just one of the most prolific inventors of this area, Kurtz has gained notoriety among inventors worldwide – and has won awards in the process.

The creator and owner of JSI Innovations – Kurtz owns a ranch north of St. Croix Falls and many of his inventions are aimed at helping other farmers such as “The Last Hitch,” that allows a tractor operator to hook up and unhook wagons, trailers, bale forks, back blades

Bill Kurtz of St. Croix Falls has a number of patents pending. Special photo

and discs with little work; the “Extendaboom,” a device that extends the reach of a bucket on a skid loader; “Dropaway Gutters,” a “Wasteless Hay Feeder,” a “Multi-Clamp System,” and the list goes on.

Two of his inventions reach far beyond farm applications and right into today’s headlines about alternative ideas regarding transportation and energy.

His mass transit proposal was recently one of five projects chosen by the Minnesota Inventors Congress to be presented at the First International Inventor’s Day Convention in Bangkok, Thailand.

And his wind/solar system units, he believes, represents a new concept for capturing wind and solar energy.

He just needs a little help to find a connection for people who want to be involved in developing the invention or a funding source to keep it going through the stages of research and development.

Always ready to move on to the next prototype, Kurtz said he really doesn’t have the time to The JSI Wind/Solar invention. - Special photo devote to the project after

brainstorming it.

“I always need a new challenge and lose interest after I make one prototype and then starting getting new ideas,” he noted.

Wind and solar Kurtz’s wind and solar device - its patent pending - is somewhat difficult to describe without actually showing a photo of the prototype (see photos).

There are two models - one that has a wind vane whch can be connected to a motor on the wheels under a turntable, and as the wind direction changes, the motor would autmoatically turn the collector into the wind.

The other unit is a pedestal-type where the pivot point is located close to the front of the unit so the wind can swivel it around where needed.

The units can be made in different sizes, some small enough to pull behind a truck on a trailer - and solar collectors can be incorporated.

Kurtz says his design will capture more wind energy directing it to turbines with more volume and intensity to create energy, besides the solar energy that is collected.

It will allow more options to produce wind energy, solar and compressed air with the compressors fitted to directly product compressed air for tools.

Kurtz has military applications for aircraft carriers by capturing the wash or lost energy as planes take off and land on aircraft carriers.

That captured energy could be stored and help to power the aircraft carrier.

The same would work at regular airports, he notes.

Lake power “I recently read where they plan on doing a study to see if it would be cost effective to bild wind farms offshore in Lake Michigan and Lake Superior,” Kurtz notes. “I would not be in favor of putting tall structures out in those lakes - they would be too costly to construct and maintain and I can only imagine what a storm would have on tall generators.”

Kurtz said his system would be much more suited for that application.

“My system could be a floating unit anchored with a cable and it would rotate with the wind just as your boat does when fishing. The units would not be as costly to construct or repair and

The JSI Innovations sign at the Kurtz home north of St. Croix Falls. - Special photo could be towed to shore if maintenance was required.”

Kurtz takes his inventor’s thoughts even further, proposing on land charging stations located along freeways where people could stop with their electric cars and exchange a practically drained battery for a fully charged one.

“I could get these systems developed on my own; however, it would take years for me as an individual and we are in a crisis in this country with the price of fuel caused by the developing countries as well as our own needs or lack of conserving it or using renewable resources,” he said.

“So I think we need to come together like we did in World War II and pool our resources like funding, ingenuity and try to get this system - and my mass transit system up and running using renewables. This would also help prevent more damage to the environment.”

Those wishing to give encouragement, ideas and/or funding can contact Kurtz at bill@teamjsi.com.

‘Follow the Leader’

Currents N O R T H E R N

April 9, 2008 2nd Section B Inter-County Leader

News and views from the Northwest Wisconsin community

Today's lumbering crew - one man and a "processor"

by Carl Heidel BURNETT COUNTY - Ever wonder about those piles of timber that signal the presence of a logging operation?

The logs are cleanly limbed, cut to just the right length, and neatly stacked in a pile waiting to be loaded and transported. But where is the crew of lumberjacks one would expect to see working the area?

Well, that entire crew is just one remarkable $385,000 piece of equipment and its operator. It’s the processor.

Quarters are crowded in the processor’s cab, but all the equipment filling the space allows Mashak to lumber 50-55 cords of wood in a single day.

Larry Mashak of Northwoods Forestry in Rice Lake took time to explain today’s lumbering process while he was working along Burnett County’s CTH F last Friday. He puts in 10-hour days, and in that time he can cut 50 to 55 logger’s cords of wood with the processor.

Looking a bit like a cross between a backhoe and a small crane, the processor takes hold of the tree, cuts it a few inches from the ground, lifts the entire tree, turns it horizontal and strips off the limbs, cuts it to a precise length, and then places the log in the stack. One person sitting at the controls of this computerized operation does all the work.

But Mashak is more than just a oneman lumbering operation. He sees himself as a steward of the forests, someone with the responsibility of caring for the forest so that it will continue to provide the logs that become the lumber for a wide variety of uses.

On this particular location, he was carrying out a second cutting at that site, and he said with good lumbering practices, there will be two more cuttings there. As part of that good practice he was taking only one out of every four trees, carefully selecting the right trees to cut.

Mashak takes pride in the professional quality of his work. He carefully maneuvers the processor through the woods in order to do as little damage as possible to the standing trees and forest undergrowth.

And his careful stewardship showed.

At the end of the operation, the lumbered area looked like an untouched patch of forest at a casual glance. Only the logs neatly stacked and waiting to be transported to the mill gave a hint that Mashak and the processor had been at work.

Anyone interested in more information about Mashak and his work can contact him at 715-651-7244.

Larry Mashak stands next to the processor. More than just a lumberjack, Mashak considers himself a steward of the forest. – Photos by Carl Heidel

Looking a bit like a piece of equipment intended for exploration on the surface of another planet, this processor and Larry Mashak, its operator, are the center of a modern logging operation.

With the tree cut, the processor turns it horizontally, trims off its limbs, and then makes a final precise cut under control of the processor’s computer.

Using the processor, Mashak can grasp a tree and cut it three inches above the ground leaving little to no stump.

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

“The Wizard of Oz” works its magic again Webster children take audience beyond the rainbow

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - In that most-magical-of-all magical musicals, “The Wizard of Oz,” Dorothy puts into words and music what so many yearn for when she sings, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Nestled in every heart there is always a child that dreams of that land over the rainbow, a fairy tale come true.

And for a time that seemed far too brief, the children of the Webster Schools transported audiences to that land this past weekend. With a cast that seemed to include every child in the school system, plus a few ran-

Professor Marvel, alias the Gatekeeper and the Wizard in Oz, Zach Tranmer, tells Dorothy of his wondrous exploits.

Auntie Em, (L) Sarah Walsh, and Uncle Henry, (back) Jason Hendry, care for Dorothy, Brittany Flatten, as she arrives back in Kansas from Oz. – Photos by Carl Heidel

The Lollypop Guild, (L to R) Frankie DeBlase, Eventually the Cowardly Lion, Seth Pardun, found Danny Ingalls and Stephen Lang, welcomes his courage when the Wizard gave him a medal for Dorothy to Oz. bravery.

Glinda, Good Witch of the North, (R), Billie Ingalls, tells Dorothy, (L) Brittany Flatten, that to get back to Kansas all she needs to do is click the heels on her red slippers and whisper, “There’s no place like home.”

dom adults, they spun their version of that classic made famous by MGM’s 1939 movie.

Supporting that cast was a list of people from the Webster community that reads like pages from the local telephone directory. Everyone seemed to be part of it, and those not on stage or in the crews were in the audience, moms and dads and grandpas and grandmas and all the next-door neighbors, kith and kin, proud of their children, generous in their applause.

Brittany Flatten seemed to be as much Judy Garland as Dorothy from Kansas, and Anna, the dog, supported her as Toto. Sara Walsh was Auntie Em, too much of a Christian woman to tell a mean neighbor what she thought of her. And Jason Hendry was right there as the easygoing Uncle Henry.

Joey Erickson, Jud Mosher and Seth Pardun began as Hunk, Hickory and Zeke (respectively), but in Oz they

became Dorothy’s companions along the Yellow Brick Road, Joey the Scarecrow, Jud the Tinman and Seth the Cowardly Lion.

Two witches took to the stage, Glinda, Good Witch of the North played by Billie Ingalls, and the Wicked Witch (also Miss Gulch) played by Olivia Main.

Zach Tranmer, high school math teacher, went through one role after another, first Professor Marvel, then the Gatekeeper of Oz, and then finally the Wizard himself. And the apple-throwing apple trees were really Max Baernreuther and Aaron Strang.

Munchkins were everywhere, soldiers, Lullaby League, Lollipop Guild, villagers, and even some flying monkeys made an appearance. Mayor of the Munchkins was Alex Strang, Coroner was Jack Ralph, and Kimberly Thielman was the munchkin judge.

Behind it all was Nancy Meindel, now retired from teaching, but still directing the school plays. For her this was a reprise of the performance of “Oz” that she directed 18 years ago when Julie Strang, now the school’s band director, took the lead as Dorothy.

Dorothy, (L) Brittany Flatten, and the Scarecrow, (R) Joey Erickson, come upon a strange sight on the Just as nasty as nasty can be, the Wicked Witch, way to Oz, a man made out of tin, (C) Jud Mosher.

Olivia Main, managed to terrify the munchkins with her sudden appearance.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Denali Climb

by Walt Fluegel Suppose you were part of an Alaskan support and research team wanting to understand why so many Denali (Mt. McKinley) climbers have problems or die in their attempt to reach the top. Your job as photographer, would be to record the thinking and actions of researchers as you climb the mountain with them. In a PBS feature “Deadly Ascent” the research team of three experienced climbers with backgrounds in medicine and physiology wanted information on what happens to the body during a climb on the coldest mountain in the world.

To find out what their core body temperature was on a continuous basis, the three researchers each swallowed a capsule containing a radio transmitter and temperature sensor. An external receiver recorded the radio signals. Other factors such as high altitude oxygen levels, air temperature, wind, stress during the climb, being at rest, and many other physiological and medical conditions were to be explored.

Everybody on the ascent, even the experienced team, had to learn or know fundamentals of climbing, how to handle ropes, how to look after each other, how to stop sliding down a slope, and how to rescue anyone if someone fell into a crevasse.

During the climb, a few of the support team had medical difficulty and had to be evacuated by helicopter or remain at lower elevations. Much later, at higher

PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Gladys Frokjer at 483-3208 or Iris Holm 284-3174 for more information. - submitted

Writer’s Corner elevations one of the researchers himself also had to be evacuated. As the program progressed, I slowly realized I was “reliving” the experience of the climbers. The unseen photographer did a good job, but then, when the thought of the photographer came to mind, I was startled! What about the photographer? I too have photography in my background and I thought he (or she) too must have been under all this physiological stress during the climb, in addition to keeping the camera working.

For example, one scene showed a climber at the end of a rope in a crevasse. All of my attention was on that person and the rope. The external temperature was way below zero. The narration told that if the climber were injured or unconscious and could not move on her own, her blood supply to her arms and legs would slow down as she lost body core temperature from being inactive. Therefore, her leg and arm muscles necessary for climbing would not function properly and she could not help in her own rescue. If help from above were not available she would die. Of course this scene was part of a training exercise. And the photographer too was down in the crevasse.

The scene reminded me of when I was a student at the University of Alaska many years ago. A team of students decided to climb Denali in late spring. One of the student climbers did fall into a crevasse, but his rescuers were too late. It was then, I realized while

watching a researcher tethered to the rope on the PBS program, we seldom see or know a photographer is doing work. They are part of the experience shared with other people.

During the program I wondered about other photographers who are in the opposite extreme of jungles where they cope with army ants, leeches, poisonous critters or plants, snakes, or the dampness which causes fungi to rot and fog the cement between special lenses. A person without experience or training would have a difficult time. The desert too can be hazardous to health and equipment.

Yet the photographer and the biologists, geologists, and others do these explorations willingly, knowing the consequences if things go wrong. They also know the rewards to themselves and humanity. They search for knowledge and adventure to be shared by publishing their results for others to read or see. When we “relive” the experience through TV, we seldom realize that someone is behind the camera, and that someone is helping the viewer understand what is being recorded.

As a team, the researchers did not reach the top of Denali. For me, I thought, Walt my boy, you would not survive the climb OR the cold! If you want to be warm, stay in Wisconsin and watch it all on TV.

Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Each month we have a topic to write about and read to the group. The following writing was read at the last meeting. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-349-2761 for more information about the organization.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

The Carlyle Sherstad 5K run/walk is back GRANTSBURG – The 2008 Carlyle Sherstad 5K run/walk will take place on Saturday, June 7, - during Grantsburg’s Big Gust Days. Parking will be at the Grantsburg High School with registration from 6:30 7:45 a.m. at the high school track. The 5K course begins at 8 a.m. on Madison Avenue.

Trophies will be awarded to the overall male and female finishers, and medals will be awarded to the first three male and female finishers in each of nine age cat-

egories.

Registration forms can be picked up at Burnett Medical Center, or downloaded from their Web site: www.burnettmedicalcenter.com. The nonrefundable registration fee is $15 per person. Individuals preregistered by Monday, May 12, will receive an event T-shirt.

Burnett Medical Center organizes The Carlyle Sherstad 5K and donates all profits. This year’s profits will be donated to the Grantsburg Volunteer Fire Depart-

ment’s Off-Road Rescue Unit Fund.

Business sponsors, volunteers, and race participants make the event successful. Sponsors get their company’s name printed on the back of event T-shirts. To learn about becoming an event volunteer or business sponsor, contact Kelli Eklof, race director, at 715-4635353 or 800-293-5353. - submitted

Luck Area ACS Run/Walk Finish Line set May 10 LUCK - Now is the time to get teams organized or plan to run/walk as an individual for the 13th-annual Luck Area American Cancer Society 1-, 3- or 5-mile Finish Line to be held May 10 at Luck High School.

There are no set numbers to have a team. If you need help setting up a team or have any questions, contact Patti Mattson at 715-472-2654. Registration and pledge forms are available at Rural American Bank and Wayne’s Foods Plus in Luck. Preregistration is $5 and should be sent to Jaime Anderson, 1512 Lake Ave., Luck, WI 54853, or dropped off at Rural American Bank before May 5. You may also register on the day of the

run/walk for $10 from 8-9 a.m. At 9:15 a.m., honorary co-chairmen Dale and Janise Skow will lead the way.

Each participant that raises $60 or more will receive a T-shirt the day of the event. Prizes for individual top money raisers include a night’s stay at St. Croix Casino, Turtle Lake, $50 gift certificate at Van Meter’s, Luck, and $50 gift certificate to Calderwood Lodge on Bone Lake.

Many businesses in the area have Foot A Buck footprints available for $1. Consider purchasing one when you see them displayed. Tribute flags may be purchased for a $10 minimum donation. Contact Marcia

Anderson, 1512 Lake Ave., Luck, WI 54853 or call her at 715-472-8478. These flags will line the beginning of the run/walk route with the names of the cancer victim or survivor.

With continued support from members of our community, the ACS is working to eliminate cancer as a major health problem. By 2015, they hope to prevent nearly 5 million cancer related deaths, avert 6 million cancer diagnoses and to continue to improve the quality of life for people with cancer. - submitted

Local group heads to Washington, D.C., to issue radioactive report card LUCK – One staff member from Nukewatch will visit Washington, D.C., from April 12 to 16 to release a “radioactive report card” grading U.S. Department of Energy nuclear weapons policies over the past eight years and laying out an agenda for the next administration.

The group will also meet with members of Congress and agency officials to press for an end to nuclear weapons production and increases in funding for environmental programs.

A three-person Wisconsin delegation will be working with colleagues from more than a dozen states who are participating in the 20th-annual Alliance for Nuclear Accountability “D.C. Days.” The activists expect to meet with senators and representatives from Wisconsin, leaders of congressional committees that oversee nuclear issues, and key federal agency staffers. (Nathan Pyle of Madison and Kathryn Fuchs of Milwaukee will also participate.)

Nukewatch staffer Bonnie Urfer said, “The 2008 elections will usher in a new administration and Congress, creating the opportunity to redirect U.S. nuclear policy.

Our elected officials need to make environmental protection, public health and compliance with international legal obligations the top priorities, rather than promoting schemes such as Complex Transformation and the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership, which would launch a new generation of weapons production.”

Nukewatch’s John LaForge is going to D.C. for the group, a nonprofit peace and environmental action organization based on the Anathoth Community Farm in rural Luck. Nukewatch has been researching and educating about nuclear power and weapons since 1979.

LaForge said his message to lawmakers “will focus on the failure of the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste project, the dangers of using waste plutonium for nuclear power fuel and the probable illegality of the so-called ‘Reliable Replacement Warhead’ program that would violate the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty.”

The Alliance for Nuclear Accountability is a twoyear-old network of several dozen local, regional and national groups representing the concerns of commu-

nities downwind and downstream from U.S. reactors or nuclear weapons production and radioactive waste disposal sites. - from Nukewatch

Adoption information meeting set HUDSON - Crossroads Adoption Services is holding a free adoption information meeting on Wednesday, April 16, at 6 p.m.

The meeting will be held in the Hudson office located at 911 Fourth Street, Suite 214 (in the library building).

Crossroads is licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin and places children of all ages from both the United States and other countries such as China, Colombia and Philippines.

Adoption is a beautiful way to build a family. Call 715-386-5550 to register. - submitted

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

Trade Lake and West Sweden Honor Boys

by Stanley Selin The following article appeared in The Frederic Star published on Thursday, Nov. 27, 1919. It announces a homecoming celebration for returning World War I soldiers from Trade Lake and West Sweden. The United States entered the war on April 6, 1917. However, most soldiers did not see action in France until May of 1918. The war ended on Nov. 11, 1918.

Returning WW I soldiers standing at attention on Madison Avenue in Grantsburg in 1919. – Photo from Selin collection Homecoming Celebration at Lutheran Church Today The members of the Zion Lutheran Church at Trade Lake are holding a homecoming today in honor of the boys of the church who were in the service.

A dinner is being served at noon, and in the evening a very excellent program will be given at the church.

Another WW I postcard from Carl Pearson. Note letters traveling back and forth on the wires. – Photo courtesy of Jane Pearson

Rev. A. H. Franseen Invocation 1. Music, Selected West Sweden Orchestra 2. Song, “The Lord of Hosts is With Us Yet” Choir 3. Talk, “Our Country” - Miss Anna Ryss 4. Solo, “Just as the Son Went Down Alice Hake 5. Violin Solo,Selected - Edward Ledell 6. Talk, “Our Community” - Hon. Erick H. Johnson

World War I postcard brought back by Carl Pearson of Atlas. – Photo courtesy of Jane Pearson

7. Music, Selected - West Sweden Orchestra 8. Talk, “Our Church” - Rev. A. H. Franseen 9. Song, “I Was Glad” Choir Following are the boys included in the list: Communicant Members: TRADE LAKE Andrew Fisk, Gunnard Bergstrom, Fred Erickson, Charley Anderson, Arthur Johnson, Albert Anderson, Samuel Lindquist, John Anderson, Frederik Ryss, Alvin Anderson, Frederik Johnson, Evald Olson and Carl Dahlberg.

WEST SWEDEN Elmer Lind, John Soderberg, Arnold Lind, Henry Anderson, Elmer Lund,

Hugo Soderberg, Axel Bloom, Henry L. Johnson, Edvard Bloom, Vivian Chell, Walter Lind and Gunnard Friberg.

In Associate Fellowship: Theodore Anderson, John Zeimer, Eddie Johnson, Richard Hoglund, Oscar Carlson, Richard Larson, Edwin Anderson, Russell Anderson, Fred Carlson, John Peterson, Paul Olson, Reuben Hoglund, David Nelson, Lincoln Eckman, Albert Anderson, Richard Danielson, Henry Peterson, Ernest Peterson, Robert Olson, John Aistad, George Cummelin, Sidney Eckman, Alvin Johnson, Albert Danielson, Ernest Peterson, LeRoy Tollander and Carl Mellgren.

A WW I Notice of Classification card for Selective Service from the Local Board of the War Department. Note the date on the card was 11/8/18, three days before the war ended. – From the Selin collection

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Sweet treat from trees

by Sharen Neumann Kaatz (Sharen and her husband, Ed, are now residents of the veterans home at King.)

We have only two huge sugar maples (Acer saccharum) on our property, but dozens of another from the maple family, the Acer negundo – the common box elder. Our children wanted to tap the maple trees, but we weren’t getting enough sap to make it worthwhile.

I’d read somewhere that you could use the sap from the box elder the same way as the sugar maple. So we set about trying an experiment.

We tapped the trees and kept the sap separate, cooking it down in separate kettles. We made regular maple syrup and made candy from both, too. It was all delicious, no one was able to tell the difference! So now each spring we tap the ample box elders along with the scarcer sugar maples.

The flow and the sugar content of each is the same.

It still takes 30 to 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. Tapping the sweet trees is a welcome sign of spring, a chance to get out in the woods, have some fun and get some exercise at the same time.

It’s a hobby you can get into very inexpensively.

You can make your own equipment from scraps and cast-off materials. Spigots from which the sap runs are called “spiles.” They can be made from large elderberry or sumac branches four inches long. Punch out the pith with a small iron rod. Cut a notch in the top of the spile to hold your bucket. You can purchase metal spiles through most farm supply houses, or contact a maple syrup producer in your area, he will likely have some around he will be glad to loan you.

A gallon can with a wire bail attached or ice cream buckets work just fine for sap buckets. You may have access to larger sized plastic buckets.

Drill a three-inch hole on the sunny side of the tree about three feet from the ground. Gently tap in your homemade spiles and hang your buckets from the notches cut in the top side of the spiles. You can put two spiles in most trees and more in larger trees.

Sugar-time is anytime from New Year’s Day until the leaves appear, if the weather is right. Sap flows best on warm sunny days followed by frosty nights.

To save even more money, boil the sap down in a flat pan over a fire outside. You can use wood from dry, fallen braches and trees. If you are only making small batches of the syrup, you may want to boil it down outside to about half and then finish it up in the house where you can keep an eye on the syrup.

When the syrup reaches the proper consistency it will tend to foam up and boil over. A tiny piece of butter or a few drops of cream will quiet it down.

For maple sugar, boil to 234 degrees on your candy thermometer. (If you will be doing much syrup, you will want to invest in a special thermometer and a device for measuring the sugar content.) Then pour into buttered maple sugar molds or buttered muffin tins

Dain Bramage North Dakota recently threw away 4,000-5,000 pounds of venison from their food shelves that allegedly had lead fragments in it. A dermatologist from Bismarck that is a member of the Peregrine Fund of Boise, Idaho, did a CT scan of some of the venison and found that 60 percent of it had lead contamination.

Now if that was a 3-pound sample I wouldn’t get too excited unless all 3-4,000 pounds came from the same deer. The article leads you to believe that he scanned the whole lot, which he didn’t. I had 200 pounds (me) scanned a couple of months ago, and it cost $3,200. I doubt the doctor could afford it unless he had a grant from the Peregrine Fund.

The article quotes the ammunition and ballistics expert (my words) who is also the vice president and director of international programs for the Peregrine Fund, that high-powered rifle bullets “fragment into hundreds of tiny pieces.”

I have a few thoughts. Modern bullets don’t shed much lead and most of it stays in the wound channel, which is usually excised from the carcass. Several ammunition companies offer solid copper and brass bul-

to cool and harden.

In order to keep your precious syrup sweet tasting, it must be processed in a boiling water bath or canned in a pressure cooker for a few minutes.

You can recycle used jars, but use new canning lids.

During the tapping season Bernice we use sap for cooking – for Abrahamzon simmering soaked dried beans and peas. Use it in place of water for soup stock, you can use it anywhere you would use plain water for cooking or baking.

For a delicious maple nut candy, boil the sap until the hard ball stage arrives, then pour over butternuts, or walnuts on a buttered platter.

Let cool completely before cutting.

Or you might like Maple Nut Divinity. You will need two cups maple syrup, two egg whites, stiffly beaten and one-half cup of chopped butternuts, black walnuts, walnuts or pecans. Butter a heavy saucepan; in it cook the maple syrup, without stirring until it reaches 250 degrees on a candy thermometer. Pour syrup slowly over the two stiffly beaten egg whites; beat constantly at high speed with an electric beater until mixture forms peaks and loses its gloss. Quickly stir in nuts. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a waxed paper lined cookie sheet to cool.

Or you might try the ultimate pecan pie. For it you will need; one nine-inch unbaked pie shell, one-fourth cup butter, two-thirds cup brown sugar, packed, dash salt, three-fourths cup pure maple syrup, three eggs, beaten, one cup pecans, broken in pieces (You may substitute any of the nuts mentioned above.), and one teaspoon vanilla. Sprinkle nutmeats evenly in the bottom of the unbaked pie shell. Mix the rest of the ingredients until sugar is dissolved, pour over the nuts and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serve small portions topped with whipped cream.

And don’t forget pancakes and fresh waffles and then there is sugar snow, the list goes on and on. Enjoy your maple syrup, nature’s own sweet treat from trees.

(Reprinted from Abundant Harvest published by the Northwest Regional Writers 1996)

BEHIND THE

SIGNPOST

Until next week, Bernice

lets, but they are expensive. I don’t think most people availing themselves of the food shelf want their food thrown away. How much of this venison was taken by archers? I wonder Brooke if the dermatoloBiedinger gist checked any of those deer for psoriasis.

I’m not throwing my venison or fowl away.

Lead poisoning is no joke; ingestion of lead causes neurological damage. Our family has eaten tons of wild game and we ain’t got no dain bramage.

IRREGULAR columnist

Webster Area Chamber Spring Dinner set WEBSTER - The Webster Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual spring dinner and general meeting on Monday, April 21, at the Yellow River Saloon & Eatery.

Members and guests are invited to attend. The cost for members is $15, and one guest may attend at no charge. The social hour begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30.

After dinner there will be short meeting to update members on 2008 chamber happenings and to announce the 2008 Webster Area Citizen of the Year.

Those in the local business community who may not have received an invitation and who are interested in attending can contact Tim Gerber, 349-7499 weekdays.

Deadline for paid reservations is April 16. - submitted

E-edition - this complete issue is online now. www.the-leader.net

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago The senior class play presented at Grantsburg was “The Perfect Idiot” on Friday, April 18, 1958.-Auctions were held on the Guy Clark farm and the listing included 54 head of Holstein cattle, a one-year Percheron stallion, pigs and misc. on April 18.-On April 19, an auction was held for the Carl Clausen estate near Falun.-Two women and a man robbed Joe Bosrk Sr. at his farm home. They took his billfold with $18 in it and ransacked his house.-Work crews were named for completion of Frederic swimming pool. Crew No. 1 included Wallace Early and one man. Crew No. 2 included Ardell Clausen, Edwin Pedersen, Stokely’s six men, Art Fossum, Bruce King, Harold Java, Chuck Folstad. Crew No. 3 included Frederic Telephone Co., three men, Marvin Lundquist, Art Peters, Willard West, Dick Babcock, Fred Fenske, plus Dillie Hoover and Charles Spenser.

Crew No. 4 included Alvin Paulsen, Carl Liljeberg, Oscar Peterson, Ray Petersen, Al Ronningen, Lloyd Thor, Bruce Shattuck, Henry Bille, Al LeFurgy and Reg Ronning. Crew No. 5 included Indianhead Cleans, 2 men, Edward Olsen, Frederic Feed and Flour, 5 men, Dr. D.G. Harlander, Jens Fossum Jr., Lavern Heath, plus crews 6, 7, 8, 9. It seemed as if every man in Frederic was involved.

40 Years Ago The Inter-County Leader did office machine repairing.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included 1/2-gal. ice cream at 69¢, pancake mix at 2 16-oz. pkgs. at 89¢ and fresh radishes at 5¢ pkg.-The wedding picture of Kathryn Dee Nater and Dale Hromadko was published in the Leader.-Abrahamson’s Nursery was in its 40th year at Scandia, Minn.Ellen Monson, 62, died at Fairbault, Minn.-Robert Isler Jr. served the Lorain Methodist Church and St. Luke’s Methodist Church plus the Atlas Community Methodist Church.-Harold Petersen served Bone Lake Lutheran and West Denmark Lutheran Church.-An accident on Hwy. 35 injured a county employee, Carl Beckstrom.-The new owner of the Luck Gamble Store at Luck, was Jess Petersen. For the past 24 years it was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Herb Swen Swenson.-The Commerical Club sponsored a banquet for Luck athletes.-Many fires were fought in a dry spring.-Hide-away Hills reported loss of stock and equipment following a break-in and robbery.-An ad read, “If you can afford a Ford, you can afford a Chrysler.”-Lori Steen, Luck, won a giant Easter bunny at Don Schwartz Ford.-Specials at Frederic Co-op Store included a gal. of ice cream $1.19, pork loin at 49¢ lb. and Swansdown cake mix at 4 for $1.

20 Years Ago Lyme disease was a growing health threat.-The location for a new well in Milltown was being explored.-Business of the Week was Milltown’s Mill Inn, run by twin brothers in partnership, Rick and Randee Giller.-Sterling voters set fixed amount for fire protection.-A Health Fair at Frederic drew a huge crowd.-Obituaries included Sadie Fredericks, Leonard Nelson, Ruth Krueger, Florence Daeffler, Betty Gardner, Norman Stone, Nina Dickey, Katherine Rogers and Wayne Grover.-Free leaf dumping for Frederic residents at specified time.-The Luck Phone Co. arranged for stock split.-The Luck town held its first meeting in the new shop building.-Many grass fires to be fought.-DNR restricts buring permits.-Helicopter on call to fight fires.-Smoke-free policy was adopted at Grantsburg School.-Daniel Brown was the new social services director in Burnett County.-Siren sewer rates would problably go up July 1.-Public pressure was helping to keep childhood vaccinations cost-free.-Timber sales were proposed for clearing along highways.-Gerald Fiedler was Grantsburg’s 1988 Man on the Year.-Mike and Donna Chell would host this year’s dairy breakfast.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Hi, everybody! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County.

Well, the snow is disappearing, and all sorts of things are popping up in the yard. Some good; others, not so much. I guess we can’t put the shovel back in the shed just yet, but I Blacky did find my long-lost ball. Yay! It won’t be long now before those rotten ticks start making an appearance, too. Don’t forget to put some YAPpenings flea and tick killer on your dogs and cats pretty soon. Besides spreading disease, ticks are itchy, creepy and just plain gross. Not many things make my lips curl up, but when I get a tick pulled off of me, it gives me the willies. Lyme vaccinations and heartworm medicine are also a must to keep us pets in proper working condition. You take good care of your car, don’t you?

And it doesn’t even lick your face or sniff your ear!

We’ve got a couple of new girls in at the shelter this week. First, there’s Mia. Mia is a young girl of about 5 months old. She is a cross between an Irish setter and a German shorthaired pointer. She is pretty shy, but once she warms up she gets along with anyone dogs, cats, kids, postmen, etc. She is a sweet little thing who was surrendered to us because her folks were moving and couldn’t bring her with them. Unlike some pups her age, she doesn’t try to chew your clothes and fingers off either. Mia would make someone out there a loving companion. Next there’s Cindy. Cindy is a malamute mix. She is 8 months old and has a pretty brown coat and a real cute set of ears - they stand up, yet they flop over at the tops. Cindy is a bundle of energy, but she is affectionate and has a never-ending supply of kisses to go around.

Some of the puppies have found new homes, but there’s still three or four left. I have to chuckle when I see them out tearing around in the play yard. Ah, to

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be young and carefree! We still have a number of cats that are patiently awaiting a new home. Tinkerbell and Webster were the two cats’ names I missed last week. They weren’t mad at me, though. They thought it was kind of funny when I told them the reason.

If you have some free time and would like to get out and enjoy the outdoors, why not come and walk a dog? Even though they get to run around and play, they sometimes still get bored. One dog decided he needed to know what the inside of a tennis ball looked like. It was a bit of a letdown, so then he just chewed it into a million pieces. A waste of a perfectly good ball, if you ask me, but at times the shelter dogs have a little too much time on their paws and they get restless.

I’m saving my best news for last, and here it is: After sifting through the vast compendium of e-mails I received (well, OK, it wasn’t exactly vast), I do believe Stinky has found himself a new name! Thanks to Mrs. Denn’s fourth-grade class at Frederic Elementary, we had a whole list of names to consider. I read them off to Stinky and the one that got his tail wagging the most was “Louie.” He actually kind of looks like a Louie, and it’s a fine name, for certain. Thanks, you kids, for your help! Because of you, Louie can move on and hold his head up high. He’s doing a lot better physically, as well, and the spring in his step has returned. Now we just have to find him a home!

That’s about all the news I have for this week. I’m busy trying to figure out how I’m going to get myself into the Moose Lodge for the spaghetti fundraiser dinner on April 26. I was told I can’t be in the kitchen to help that night. Can you believe that? Thwarted again. They act like I’m going to eat everything in sight or something, but I only want to make sure that everything is just right. I’m particular.

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org 866-4096.

Siren

I finally saw my first robin on Thursday. Also, the bears are out and about for sure. I got a look at one Saturday as it headed to the bird feeder. It probably smelled the sunflower seeds. A shout at it from the window and it took off, but you can be sure it will return. There isn’t much in the woods for them to eat yet and a bird feeder is an easy meal. So watch your small animals, cats and dogs and make sure you keep the kids close to the house when they are out playing. These critters are hungry this time of year and have a very short temper.

Attention Daniels residents, the regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 15, at 7 p.m., at the town hall with the town board meeting following.

Congratulations to elementary student Mollie Anderson, middle-schooler Rachel Gloodt and high schooler MacKenzie Swenson for being chosen Siren Schools students of the week.

My brother, Bob Martin, and his girlfriend, Jan Hobbs, of Duluth, Minn., stopped in on Wednesday for a short visit before heading down to Turtle Lake to the casino to celebrate his 65th birthday on April 3.

Don’t forget to attend the Siren Lionesses meeting at the Siren School on Tuesday, April 15, from 7 to 8 p.m.

Heidi, their speaker, will be addressing child pornography and prostitution. This is a must for all parents. A questionand-answer session will follow as well as refreshments served.

Sympathy to the families due to the death of loved ones: Ella Mae Virchow on March 21, Roy Pearson on March 26 and Lester Coy on March 27.

All you avid deer hunters, Whitetails Unlimited of Burnett County is having a Spring Fling Night on Saturday, April 19, at the Grantsburg American Legion Hall. A social hour starts at 5 p.m. with the dinner at 6:30 p.m. There is an auction, door prizes, guns plus much more. Tickets for this event are $30 a person and they must be purchased by April 12. For more information or to buy your tickets, call Don Chell at 715-689-2233.

Good news was reported in church on Sunday. Kathe Good is now out of the coma and is reportedly on the way to a recovery.

Frederic Senior Center Spring weather has had a hard time to stay when it arrived.

Monday spades were played on March 31 with the following winners: Norma Nelson was first; Arnie Borchert was second; Ed Berdal was third; and Eleanor Bonneville was fourth.

Wednesday pokeno was played by this group. Thursday 500 cards with the following winners are played: first was Arnie Borchert, second was Hazel Hoffman, third was Nina Vold and fourth was Eleanor Bonneville.

Friday monthly meeting was held at 1:30 p.m. Pokeno game started at 12:30 p.m. and then completed their game after the meeting.

Vera Amundson celebrated her 93rd birthday Friday and we all enjoyed her birthday cake.

We have a new member at our center – Marlys McKin-

Bev Beckmark

Ardyce Knauber

ney and she was welcomed to join us.

Wednesday, April 9, is Clareese Marek’s 97th birthday.

Clareese is our oldest member and bakes us a beautiful cake for our fellowship dinner each Saturday.

The secret for a long, happy life is to stay active, happy and your quality of life will be good.

Saturday Share-A-Lunch with celebration of the birthdays of the month was enjoyed with a bountiful buffet followed by bingo and cards and coffee hour, birthday cake and ice cream.

Birth announcements Born at SCRMC A boy, Adrien Morris-Allan Olson, born April 1, 2008, to Jodi and Larry Olson, Luck. Adrien weighed 5 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A boy, Bradyn Joseph Gehrman, born April 2, 2008, to Tony and Corrine Gehrman, Turtle Lake. Bradyn weighed 8 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, John Dean Mattson, born March 31, 2008, to John and Emily Mattson, Shafer, Minn. John weighed 6 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Destiny Elizabeth Lowe-Merrill, born March 29, 2008, to Angela Lowe and Milo Merrill, Frederic. Destiny weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz.

••• A boy, Trysten Tyler Hanson, born March 27, 2008, to Kelsey Warndahl of Turtle Lake and Troy Hanson of St. Croix Falls. Trysten weighed 8 lbs.

A Waiting Child Leland Date of birth: July 24, 1994 Leland is charismatic and has a wonderful sense of humor. Leland enjoys basketball, soccer and baseball.

He is fascinated by automobiles and as a hobby enjoys taking toy models apart and rebuilding them. Leland wants to own his own auto body shop where he can design and rebuild cars making use of his exceptional drawing skills.

Leland has been described as a very outgoing, talented and expressive child who takes a great deal of pride in his artistic abilities. In addition, Leland is gentle with pets and younger kids.

For more information about Leland, or other children waiting for adoptive homes, call Adoption Resources of Wisconsin, 800-762-8063, or visit the Web site at www.wiadopt.org. - submitted

Academic news DULUTH, Minn. – Erin Schmidt has been accepted at The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minn., for entry in fall 2008, and awarded a Benedictine Scholarship.

Schmidt, a senior at Frederic High School, is the daughter of Brad and Kelly Schmidt of Frederic. She plans to major in physical therapy at St. Scholastica.

The Benedictine Scholarship is available to all new St. Scholastica applicants, and is based on merit.

••• MILWAUKEE - Benjamin M. Ellingson has received a Ph.D.. from Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin in Biomedical Engineering with a specialization in Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Ellingson graduated from Unity High School in 1999.

He received his bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering from the Milwaukee School of Engineering in 2003 and master’s in Biomedical Engineering with a specialization in Bioelectronics and Medical Instrumentation from Marquette University in 2005. He has published in 10 academic journals and given more than 15 talks, both national and international, in his work on diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging in spinal cord injury.

He recently accepted a post-doctoral fellowship at the Biophysics Institute, Department of Radiology and Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin where he will focus on research in detection of brain tumor cell invasion using advanced magnetic resonance imaging techniques, along with continuing his work with spinal and brain trauma imaging. – submitted

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement Moen/Anderson Mary Moen and Matthew Anderson, both of Wahpeton, N.D., are pleased to announce their engagement.

Mary is the daughter of Mike and Romel Moen of Wahpeton, N.D. Matthew is the son of LeRoy and Raylene Anderson of Amery.

The bride-to-be is employed as a CNA. The groom-tobe is a professional driver.

The couple has planned an April 19 wedding at Wahpeton, N.D.

News from the Service SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Army Reserve Pfc. Eric G. Bartusch has been mobilized and activated for a future deployment to an undisclosed overseas location in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Operation Iraqi Freedom is the official name given to military operations involving members of the U.S. armed forces and coalition forces participating in efforts to free and secure Iraq.

Members from all branches of the U.S. military and multinational forces are also assisting in rebuilding Iraq’s economic and governmental infrastructure, and training and preparing Iraqi military and security forces to assume full authority and responsibility in defending and preserving Iraq’s sovereignty and independence as a democracy.

Bartusch, a psychological operations specialist, is a member of the 13th Psychological Operations Battalion based in Arden Hills, Minn. The reservist has served in the military for one year.

He is the son of Le Anne Vitzthum of St. Croix Falls, and Gordon R. Bartusch of St. Michael, Minn.

The private first class graduated in 2006 from Forest Lake High School, Minn. – submitted

Amery Senior Center

by Kari Fladwood, director As I am writing this, the sun is just starting to come up, and there are about 30 robins eating the berries off the crabapple tree outside my window! They have hopped around the tree so much that they have worn down a bare patch in a complete circle. They are so cute! I’m glad they are able to find food after this early April snowstorm.

I hope you have enjoyed the special reporting we have done lately – several of us are taking turns writing this column, so you can find out what is going on from different people!

We’re going to miss our Sara – this mother of two decided it is too difficult to leave her little ones in the morning, so she has given us her notice. She did a fantastic job, and we’re sorry to see her go! However, she isn’t completely gone – Sara still heads up our Scrap N’ Stampers group, she will be in charge of one of our Wii nights, and she does several other things around here as well. But I know I’ll miss her here in the mornings.

The day of our April birthday party was a beautiful day, bright and sunny outside, with colorful balloons and festive people on the inside! Thanks to Judith Alles, Mary Leslie, Lois Lovegren, Lois Lovgren, Jerry Fisher, Carol Osterloh, and Wendell and Ginny Anderson for helping out that day!

They all do such a great job!

Stop in on Saturday, April 12, for our Spring Business Expo! Many of your favorite vendors such as Mary Kay, Taste of Home, Pampered Chef, etc, will be here, showcasing their products. There will also be snacks and lunch served. This runs from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and the public is welcome!

Don’t forget, our Wii/Game night is Friday, April 11, at 6:30 p.m! This has been such a popular event. There will be lots of snacks to munch on, and you’re guaranteed a good time.

We are planning another stamping day – Stamp Til you Cramp and Crop til you Drop: A Scrap Day Get-a-way! This will be held on Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. The cost is $15 and included a six-foot reserved table, makeand- take projects and demonstrations, entry into fabulous door prizes and snacks. If you sign up before April 15, you get it at the early-bird special – only $10 and you get a goodie bag when you arrive! Space is limited, and we already have many spaces filled up, so if you want to come, sign up right away!

Congratulations to Paul Seidel who won first place in this week’s pool tournament! Mary Fisher came in second, and Wendell Anderson was third. Rachel Shay came in first at Wednesday bridge, with Deanne Sasselli second, Mary Delougherty third, and Bev Kjeseth fourth. Pinochle is back up and running – congrats.

God bless you all….

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Dewey - LaFollette

Donna Hines visited Ann Srachta Tuesday afternoon and helped her celebrate her birthday.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen were Tuesday evening visitors of April and Dave Close and family. They helped April celebrate her birthday.

Clam River Tuesday Club met April 2 at the home of Lida Nordquist. The next meeting will be May 7 at 1:30 p.m. at the home of Kris Fjelstad.

Beth Crosby and Judy Albee visited Beverly Brunclik Wednesday evening.

Karen and Hank Mangelsen were supper guests of Jake and Holly Mangelsen Wednesday. Several friends and a relative from Minnesota were there also.

Congratulations to Tiffany Spears and Shawn Hopwood

In October 2007, the Second-Annual Rangewood Memorial Poker Run was held in memory of Nikki Nyquist and Josh Lynam. The proceeds from the Rangewood Memorial fundraiser were donated to the Arnell Memorial Humane Society. Pictured left to right are, Jeff Young, assistant Arnell shelter manager Jody Olson, Kent Humane Franklin and presenting the check Society for $700, Nikki's father, Troy Nyquist. This donation was made in loving memory of Nikki and Josh and their love for animals. Thank you to all who donated and participated in the Rangewood Memorial Poker Run. Shortly after purchasing acreage adjacent to the Arnell Humane Society in Amery, the Amery Regional Medical Center offered to purchase the Arnell acres in anticipation of future expansion. The Arnell Executive Board entered into a dialog with the Medical Center to accomplish this exchange citing a desire to

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who were married Saturday in Shell Lake. A reception was held in Siren at the Northwoods Crossing Event Center.

Tiffany is the daughter of Kathy and Mike Spears. They hosted a family get-together Sunday at their home for the new couple.

Several people from this area attended the spaghetti supper at Clam Falls Lutheran Church Saturday.

Hank, Karen, Larry, Celie and Baxter Mangelsen visited Dirk and Sandy Benzer Saturday evening. Other visitors there were Kelly, Kylie and Alexa Dahlstrom and Troy Benzer.

John, Diana, Karen and Hank Mangelsen visited Nina and Lawrence Hines Sunday evening.

move closer to the center of the county and an easily accessible location as major factors in consideration.

Over the new 2-1/2 years, two different locations were pursued as candidates for relocation. Working together in good faith, city councils voted, real estate offers were made, soil tests run and a Polk County Zoning Special Exception Permit was granted. In the end, the decision was made by Arnell and the medical center, that the best move was no move at all.

"When is the shelter moving?" has been a question heard daily at the animal shelter over the past two years. Arnell is happy to say we are staying right where we are at 185 Griffin St. E, Amery. The shelter has enjoyed its current location for eight years, building relationships with local and county officials and citizens throughout the county. Arnell will continue to provide a safe haven for unwanted, abandoned and stray animals from Polk County and any further animal assistance within our power, from our Amery location. AMHS 715 268-7387 (PETS) or www.arnellhumane.org

Lewis

Sympathy is extended to the family and friends of June Moline who passed away in March. In recent years she had been a resident of Capeside Cove, the hospital at Grantsburg and then at the Continuing Care Center at Grantsburg.

Visitation is set for this Friday at the Lewis church beginning at 4 p.m. and on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Lewis church. Many of us have special memories of June baking rolls called sweet petals, and at Christmastime gingerbread men; memories of fishing in Canada; a special UMW picnic meeting at the retirement home of June and Louie Moline. June had celebrated her 90th birthday with an open house in January 2008.

It was Communion Sunday at the United Methodist churches at Lewis and Siren. Communion steward JoAnn Gibbs was assisted by Carl Warndahl. Freshly cut pussywillows graced the altar.

The United Methodist Men are in charge of next Sunday’s service. Who will read Scripture? Who will give the message? Who will sing a solo? Come and be surprised.

Prayers for Doris Pederson, who recently fell and broke a hip. She has an apartment at Golden Oaks. Sending good wishes and healing to her.

Alice Ford will undergo surgery this week. Sending good wishes her way.

The type B influenza has been making the rounds among our church members and friends including

Karen Mangelsen

Bernice Abrahamzon

LaVonne Smith and Mary Jane Johnson.

The NW Regional Writers will meet this Friday at 1 p.m. at the Community Room at Big Gust Apartments, Grantsburg. The assignment is to write a descriptive menu with a unique “Over the Rainbow” dessert. Looking forward to the spring conference in a church near the Apple River, the last Saturday in April. Members of the NW Regional Writers will meet at the parking lot at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church to carpool at 8 a.m. Watch newspapers for details. This year’s conference is sponsored by PoCo Penners. Four clubs are now involved in taking turns sponsoring the annual conference. Usual hours are from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bring portfolio to share a poem or story if asked.

Happy to report that LeRoy Jones feels much better since he had further heart surgery. Good news!

Dan Graf is trying his hand at tapping trees and collecting sap this year. He likes to experience country ways.

Some days in the sugar bush are better than others.

Someone else is finishing it off for him.

According to reports, Herb Sederlund is now a resident of the Frederic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Sending good thoughts his way.

Will spring ever come? April has always been from one extreme to another. Mud time! As the poet Dylan Thomas wrote “Mudluscious.”

Happy, happy spring!

E-edition - this complete issue is online now. www.the-leader.net

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 866-4334 A correction in last week’s news is that it was Mildred’s son, Jerry Buggert of Dana Point, Calif., that received the Boy Scout “Wood Award,” which is for Boy Scout leaders only.

Judy Baker, Deb Korhonen and Carol Berglind enjoyed being at the “Deal or No Deal” show at the Grand Casino, Hinckley, last Sunday even though none of them were selected as contestants.

Little Gaby (Gabrielle) Stahl celebrated her second birthday on Monday evening with big brother Ricky, parents Heather and Greg Stahl, and Grandma Mary Klar for dinner at the Siren Pour House. It’s fun to watch little children get their picture taken with a big “cakey” smile on their face. It had only started to snow a little when we left home, but by the time we left the restaurant it was like driving home in a blizzard. I guess the late snowstorm was everyone’s April Fools joke.

Three tables full of congregate diners on Tuesday enjoyed a delicious turkey dinner.

Five election workers from the Webster Community Center also had a chance to get a meal, too. Bruce Behrens, Gene Johnson, Dave Wardean and Harold Peterson played a couple games of pool after eating.

Ten ladies played dime bingo on Wednesday and Jane Wardean furnished the refreshments, and her homemade rhubarb cake was scrumptious. Afterwards, Theresa Gloege, Gladys Beers, Jane Wardean, Mary Klar, Effie Wester and Faye Russ decorated the center with a spring décor. Our holiday tree now contains butterflies, flowers and May baskets of flowers, with tulips and a birdhouse underneath the tree. As we finished decorating, Roy and Jean Fahland stopped in for a short visit as they had seen all the cars parked out front and were wondering what

Webster Senior Center was going on.

Olive Gehrke of Balsam accompanied her daughter, Margel Ruck, on Wednesday to the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in St. Croix Falls to wish Margel’s mother-inlaw, Grace Ruck, a happy 97th birthday.

Dave Wardean, Pat O’Brien, Ken Hayes, and Chuck Lehman played pool on Thursday evening; and Donna Lehman, Nancy O’Brien, Jane Wardean, Margel Ruck, Theresa Gloege and Gladys Beers played cards. Of course, they had their usual supply of munchies for everyone.

Interfaith Caregivers had a great turnout for their fundraiser bake sale and Pines Thrift Store bargains on Friday and Saturday. I bought a delicious triple berry pie for the family and kiddie treats, and even found a few bargains in the store. I know they appreciated all the donations and hard work from the volunteers.

Margel Ruck and I attended the Webster High School play “The Wizard of Oz” on Saturday evening and it was a wonderful performance put on by the cast and crew.

My favorites were the munchkins, and my most favorite lollipop munchkin being kindergartener Danny Ingalls with his big cap on sideways, striped stockings and hand in his pocket. Kudos to Nancy Meindel for her great job as director. I wish I had a pair of red shoes like Dorothy (Brittany Flatten) that I could wear for Red Hat activities.

Over 200 people attended the 90th birthday party for Vi Swanson of Tabor Lake, at the Danbury Community Center on Sunday afternoon organized by her family members. Everyone enjoyed the accordian music played by Vi’s cousins, Gail and Glen Peterson, Taylors Falls, Minn. Margel Ruck was happy to receive one of the beautiful floral bouquets used as table decorations that were made by Vi’s grand-

Luck Senior Center Greetings from Luck Senior Center.

April showers as I write this – snow is slowly fading away. Guess it’s time for me to put away my outside Christmas decorations.

Reminder: This Thursday, April 10, Trudy, the foot lady, will be at the center.

Also stamping with Kathy at the center, noon to 3 p.m. for both. Call the center for foot reservations, 715-472-8285. Trudy will also be at the center on Thursday, April 24, noon until 3 p.m.

Thanks, Betty Bohn, for your generous donation of food. It was greatly appreciated.

If you want to see the center stay open, we need your help, with donations of food and volunteer help on Wednesdays. You do not need to be a member or senior citizen to help us out.

Any suggestions? Give me a call at 715-472-8285.

That’s all for now, keep smiling.

April showers bring May flowers.

Interstate State Park News Calling All Frogs program at Wisconsin Interstate Park ST. CROIX FALLS – The Friends of Interstate Park invite you to their annual Spring Gathering of Friends on Tuesday evening, April 29, at the Ice Age Center at Wisconsin Interstate Park. This spring the Friends are offering area children, parents and other adults an opportunity to learn about our local amphibians from local resident Randy Korb.

At 6 p.m., Korb will bring his live frogs, toads and salamanders to the Ice Age Center for a special hands-on children’s program followed by a visit to a park wetland to search for frogs and salamanders. Children may hold and feed Korb’s frogs and salamanders! At 7 p.m., there will be free refreshments at the Ice Age Center provided by the Friends of Interstate Park. At 7:30 p.m., Korb will speak about declining numbers of amphibians and their challenge to hang on in a rapidly changing world.

Both programs are free and open to the public.

Korb is a new resident of St. Croix Falls after living in the Green Bay-Appleton area for 30 years. He gives presentations about frogs and butterflies to schools and libraries in Wisconsin and Illinois and has authored two books on Wisconsin’s frogs. Korb is president of the Wisconsin Audubon Council, a coalition of the state’s 17 Audubon chapters and centers.

Please mark your calendars and plan to bring the children, family and friends to the annual Spring Gathering of Friends on April 29. Everyone is welcome!

The Friends of Interstate Park is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting a greater appreciation of the human and natural history of Interstate Park by enhancing the park’s interpretive program.

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35 just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. Annual passes for 2008 are $25 for Wisconsin residents or $35 for nonresidents. For more information call 715-483-3747.

daughter, Kim, who is a florist. Vi is very grateful for the wonderful party catered by Kathy (Daisy) Eckstrom, and for the many cards and gifts she received from her family and friends.

We would like to bid a fond adieu to Shirley Holmes, site manager/cook at the Siren Senior Center, who will be leaving to pursue another job offer. Good luck, Shirley, you will be missed.

The last date for the AARP tax representatives to be at our center is Friday, April 11, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Our next senior citizens meeting will be held at the center on Monday, April 21, at 12:30 p.m. following the congregate meal.

Don’t forget, Red Hatters, that the next Ravishing Rubies Red Hat Society luncheon will be held on Tuesday, April 29, at our Webster Senior Citizen’s Center located behind Wayne’s Food Plus store, and that the ladies should arrive at 11:15 a.m. and will be served their meal about 11:45 a.m.

Members of other Red Hat clubs are invited to attend, but every Red Hat Lady from all clubs are responsible for calling in their own reservation for the meal at 8665300 and telling Deb that it is for the “Red Hat Luncheon.” If you don’t make an advance reservation, you won’t be served a meal. The National Red Hat Society is celebrating its 10th anniversary so we will try and have something extra-special.

We are grateful to Gladys Packer for her donation of cookbooks and magazines; and Colleen Foote for shoveling our front

Mary Klar walk on Tuesday morning following the Monday evening snowstorm.

Our get-well wishes and prayers go to Sam Williamson, Sylvia Pardun, Kathe Good, Paula Buchanan, and Harold Peterson who is a patient at Burnett Medical Center. Our sympathy and prayers also go out to the family of former Webster resident Laura Cornelison who passed away at the King’s Veterans Home. Laura’s funeral will be held at 1 p.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Webster, on Thursday, April 10.

The 23rd Psalm tells us about the journey we take with God through life. Releasing our burdens and trusting God even in the midst of sickness, tragedy, and fear is part of his plan for how we cope when life rips apart. God has a way of pulling together even the tough days of our lives into part of a beautiful tapestry. Psalm 34:4 states “I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.” This is a wonderful verse. God has delivered me from a number of days and nights where the stress was so heavy and the fear so great it was all I could see. I am grateful he doesn’t change and that he is sovereign. “When fear and worry test your faith and anxious thoughts assail, remember God is in control and he will never fail.”

– Sper. See you at the center!

Cloverton-Markville Lots of excitement, late nights, and hard work are occurring at the Jan and Ed Proffit farm these days. It is the time for lambs to be born. They have about 90 of the little babes right now. Eight of them are still on the bottle. The newborn lambs have to be fed every four hours and the Proffits have to check on the entire flock every two hours, so Jan and Ed have been taking turns getting up around the clock to check on the ewes (some of whom are still having babies), firm their feet, give any necessary medications, and tag them before they can be put outdoors. They have only lost one lamb so far. Even though baby lambs are among the most adorable creatures on the planet, we don’t appreciate all of the grueling work that goes in to getting them started in life.

Last weekend, Ed’s brother, Milton, and his son, Curtis, and grandson, Saxton, came over from Fergus Falls to help cut lumber and, of course, everyone had a good visit.

Deloris Schirmer had some difficulties with some tree trimmers when they left a huge mess alongside and on her driveway. But after some forcefulness on her part and some work on theirs, everything got all taken care of.

Deloris’ son, Don, is still working in Iowa.

Patty Koehler’s daughter, Alissa, and her husband, Rick Norenberg, came up from Minneapolis, to spend last weekend with Patty and Bob. They had a wonderful time. Alissa works as an occupational

therapist for the Courage Center and Rick is the manager of a Barnes and Noble bookstore.

Marlene and Don Mishler went to dinner at the Chinese restaurant in Grantsburg on Saturday night with Sharon and Doug Panek. Sharon is a former Cloverton resident. Her maiden name is Nolan.

It was a really good time that Agnes Sexton had awhile back when she went down to Maple Grove for a baby shower for one of her nephews. Also joining the fun were her brother, Les, and his wife, Wendy, and a special sister from South Dakota. Another nephew and Cloverton weekender, Shawn Kuiper, and his wife, Shannon, even came up from Nebraska for the event.

On their regular Duluth shopping trip last week, Mary and Frank Schaaf stopped at St. Mary’s Medical Center to visit his sister, Louise Torrez, who was a patient there.

Louise is home now and doing well.

I went to a celebration of life last weekend for a good friend of mine from Gordon.

Marlys Greely taught with me in Solon Springs for many years. She died at age 70 of leukemia. She was a good person.

My husband, Dave Baker, has been very busy making maple syrup these days. The sap is flowing so well. He has the outdoor pit, the woodstove and the cookstove all busy with pots of syrup on them.

Live off the land, whenever you can.

St. Croix Valley Senior Center The Tuesday afternoon domino winners were: Don Anderson in first place, Janice Mevissen in second place, George Meixner in third place. 500 card winners were: Don Benson in first place, Elaine Edlund in second place, Ruth Flostrand in third place, Roger Greenly in fourth place, Mary Lou Lund in fifth place.

Perseverance Perseverance helps us overcome obstacles and reach our goals. It is easy to give up when things get tough, but it is important to see tasks through. Perseverance is essential to doing well in school, in sports

and in a career – basically in everything. If we give up, we will never know how far we could have gone or how well we could have done. Always model effort – you don’t have to succeed at everything, but it is important to try. Say “I will try” instead of “I can’t.” If one way of accomplishing a task fails, try another. Instead of quitting, ask for help. Try something that might be difficult for you and work at it until you are successful.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Mary Lou Lund in first place, Joanne Gehrman in second place and Roger Greenly in third place.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition “Between Fences” coming to Clear Lake

by Kaye Bird Sun Argus/Woodville Leader/Gateway Publishing CLEAR LAKE – When librarian Cricket LaFond learned that Clear Lake was going to be one of only six small communities in Wisconsin to host a Smithsonian traveling exhibition, she was delighted. When she began looking through the materials arriving from the Smithsonian, the significance of this event became evident.

“I had to start thinking outside Clear Lake because this is bigger than our town,” she said. Truer words were never spoken. This is big, and for west central Wisconsinites wanting to see this impressive exhibition, a trip to Clear Lake is their best option.

The exhibition, called “Between Fences,” looks at the impact of land use and fences in this history of this country. It will be on display at the Clear Lake Area Community Center from April 12 to May 24. It then moves north to Cable—its final destination in Wisconsin.

The Clear Lake Area Community Center, in collaboration with the Clear Lake Public Library and the Clear Lake Museum, was selected by the Wisconsin Humanities Council to host “Between Fences.” The process of being “granted the grant” began in February of 2006 when LaFond was looking for grants to fund the library. She came across one being offered by WHC. The grant was called “Hosting Between Fences—A Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition.”

LaFond and community center volunteer Pat Spoentgen realized very quickly that involvement in this project would be a lot of work. The grant had to be completed by March of 2006. In May, they learned that Clear Lake had been selected as a site for “Between Fences.” Materials began arriving, and then more materials arrived. Both women have been in a training program since April of 2007. In September, they helped set up the first exhibition in Waupaca. “The exhibition comes in crates that you have to pack and unpack correctly,” said Spoentgen.

“Between Fences” consists of an entrance gate and five kiosks of varying sizes. The exhibition comes in 15

crates that can be transported in one 24’ space (trailer or truck back). It requires 600 square feet of space.

She added, “There are very specific directions for set up.” There are also very specific guidelines determining what communities are awarded this coveted grant.

Those who were successful had to demonstrate to the Smithsonian that they had the necessary community support. This is essential because the Smithsonian provides no money; the grant money will help, but additional funds are needed, and this money has to be raised by people in the community. LaFond explained, “An organization receives the honor of hosting the exhibition, but no money comes with the grant. Pat and I have written many grants and are still raising funds to help support the hosting of the exhibition and the ancillary events.”

In addition, they were asked, “What can you do to make this exhibition special?” In other words, what will the community of Clear Lake do to attract out-oftown visitors?

Just seeing the displays will be worth the trip, but organizers had to demonstrate that the time period from April 12 through May 24 would be filled with activities designed to draw people to their town. In this area, LaFond, Spoentgen and Clear Lake folks have outdone themselves.

On April 12, opening night, the Lions Club will host their annual rib fest. A barn dance featuring the local band Duck for the Oyster will follow. The Clear Lake Community Theater will perform “Oklahoma.”

It opens on April 18; six performances are scheduled. But it doesn’t stop there. Book discussions, a book talk by award-winning Wisconsin author, Jerry Apps, a visit by the Surly Surveyor, Rob Nurre, and a question-and-answer session by Polk County Master Gardeners are also on the schedule.

What promises to be an impressive display of pictures comparing Longtime Clear Lake resident Lyman Dreier displays one of the many the changes in local land use from fences he has built for the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition “Between 200 years ago to today is also in Fences.” Dreier’s fences will be displayed along Hwy. 63 and through- the works. The Midwestern Reout the Clear Lake area. – Photo by Kaye Bird gional Wisconsin Photographic

Fenced in or fenced out?

One of the exhibition kiosks examines the land wars fought by farmers, ranchers and lawyers.

Photo courtesy of Wisconsin Humanities Council

History Project will open on April 20 and continue for the duration of the exhibition.

Lest anyone think this six-week event will only attract adults, think again. The Clear Lake Public Library applied for and was awarded $3,500 to partner with the Clear Lake Junior/Senior High in creating a display called “Between Fences: Structural Change in Clear Lake.” LaFond explained. “Students have chosen a local home, business, or landmark and created a photo/narrative display that depicts how these have changed since the creation of the community of Clear Lake.” She added that the project has been a “wonderful bringing together of the generations.”

And then there’s the Teen Poetry Reading/Slam scheduled for the April 26. Winners of the countywide poetry contest will be reading their poems; this year the contest was expanded to include fourth-graders.

Students in Ms. Darlene Bratager’s desktop publishing class at the high school are also an integral part of this exhibition. Anyone who has seen the brochure will be impressed with this group effort.

On scheduled days, the community center will be holding a garage sale to beat all garage sales. Prices are more than reasonable, and with the number of items for sale, customers are sure to find what they were looking for.

May 17 will bring the famed Polk Burnett Indianhead Barbershop Chorus to the community center’s gym.

The chorus is celebrating 50 years of performances.

May 17 is also the date of the Clear Lake High School all-school reunion.

Sponsoring “Between Fences” has been a lot of work, but LaFond and Spoentgen aren’t complaining. “One of the most exciting parts of this is the way it has brought the community together,” said Spoentgen. LaFond agreed. “The most exciting part has been meeting people and the coming together of various community groups.”

But of course, putting on an exhibition of this size and importance requires more work than a small community can handle. Volunteers from surrounding communities are needed and very much welcomed; donations to help defray costs are also greatly appreciated. LaFond estimates that between 4,000 and 6,000 visitors are expected to view the exhibition. To volunteer, contact LaFond at the Clear Lake Library, 715-263-2802, or email clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

For more information about the exhibition, visit www.fencesatclearlake.com.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave. Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Contact the library at 715-755-2944 which is our telephone and fax number or e-mail us at www.dresserpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org has information about story times, days closed, reference links, library policy and community information.

Polk County Library Road Trip The third- annual Polk County Library Road Trip April 13 - 19 is National Library Week Road Trip dates are April 14-30. One week is just not long enough to get to all the great libraries of Polk County.

In honor of this week, local libraries are hosting the third-annual Polk County Library Road Trip. The purpose of this event is to celebrate the libraries and the outstanding library service is Polk County. Here is how the Road Trip will work.

1. Cut out your Polk County Library Road Trip car.

2. Make plans and visit each of the 10 municipal libraries in Polk County during the time period of April 14-30. This will be a great opportunity to visit marvelous local communities right there in Polk County. Check the times and days each library is open in the Polk County Library News pages in the Inter-County Leader - Northern Currents section.

3. While visiting each library, be sure

to get your Polk County Library Road Trip car stamped.

4. After visiting each of the 10 municipal libraries in Polk County and obtaining a stamp from each library by Wednesday, April 30, turn in your stamped Road Trip car to your local librarian.

5. All fully stamped Road Trip cars, must be turned in by Wednesday, April 30, to one of the 10 local libraries in Polk County.

There are three winner categories – child, teen and adult.

As you have read in the Inter-County Leader, there is thorough and widereaching library service in Polk County in each of the 10 municipalities as well as the countywide library support and assistance of the Polk County Library Federation. The third-annual Polk County Library Road Trip is an opportunity to become more familiar with the various local libraries while taking the time to see more of the wonderful Polk County.

Questions? Call Colleen Gifford, director, at the Polk County Library Federation, 715-485-8680 or any of your local librarians. See you at the library.

Road Trip 2008 Child, Teen, Adult

Get "Stamped" at each of Polk County's 10 public libraries.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Friends of the Library Wednesday, April 30, at noon, meeting in the library Saturday talk about the book club The book club will meet on Saturday, April 19, at 9:30 am, at the Buzz. The current selection is “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian” by Sherman Alexie.

Ongoing Fundraising Friends of the Library/St. Croix Falls 20-Month Giving Campaign!

Now through 2009, the Friends of the St Croix Falls Library invite everyone to make a 20-month pledge to help build the new library! Each person decides how much that he/she can give each month for 20 months and completes the pledge form. Then, once a month, the person gives the amount. Any monthly amount is welcome! No amount is too small nor too big. How to participate?

Clear Lake Public Library

Technology Free wireless is available at the library.

Also, visit the library Web site stcroixfallslibrary.org to get information on the building project, programs at the library and much, much more!

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. every day except Saturday 10 a.m.

– 1 p.m. Closed on Sundays.

Osceola Public Library Friends of the Osceola Public Library’s semi-annual book sale The Friends will be hosting another fantastic book sale on Saturday, April 19. The book sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. At 11 a.m. check out the themed family story time and don’t miss the musical program “Around the World in 80 Strings,” at 1 p.m. Also we’re collecting donations for our upcoming book sale. Drop off your items at the Osceola Public Library. Give a little, take a little.

Poetry workshop In honor of National Poetry Month, the library is hosting a poetry workshop, Saturday, April 26, 1 – 3 p.m.

Anna Martignacco, a composition and creative writing instructor with a MFA from Hamline University will provide an introduction to the form of poetry and constructive writing exercises. Participants must preregister as the event is limited to 10 people, ages 15 and up.

Register in person or contact the library at osceolalp@ifls.lib.wi.us or 715-2942310.

Story times Children and an accompanying adult are invited to join in the half hour of fun, songs and stories every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. and every Saturday at 11 a.m. Keep your eyes peeled on the themed family story times on Saturdays. They occasionally include a small craft too!

Last chance Gratitude is extended to participants for participating in our Adult Winter Reading program. Participants have until Saturday, April 19, to pick up their prizes.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

Amery Public Library Library upcoming happenings: April 21: Friends of the Library monthly meeting: 5:30 p.m. review of scholarships. People applying for this need to return it to your guidance counselor or bring it to the library before April 20.

Friends of the Library book club 7 p.m. discussion of “The Book Thief,” by Marcus Zusak.

April 24-26: Friends of the Library book sale. Donations are always welcome.

April 28: Teen book group: 5:30 p.m.

and return to your local library by April 30.

1. Stop in the St. Croix Falls Library 2. Fill out a pledge form 3. Take home and use the 20-month giving campaign monthly coupons This is a giving opportunity for everyone!

discussion of “City of Bones,” by Catharine Clarke.

Gratitude is extended to Lora Van Blaircom for substituting for story time while Elaine is on vacation.

For more information call the Amery Public Library, 268-9340.

Library hours Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Luck Public Library Hours: Monday 1 – 5 p.m., Tuesday 1 – 8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.,

Dresser Public Library

Thursday 1 – 8 p.m., Friday 1- 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Balsam Lake Public Library National Library Week – April 13 - 19 It’s National Library Week, a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries, librarians and library workers nationwide - and the perfect time to discover how you can join the circle of knowledge at your library. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the country each April.

Did you know that there are more public libraries than McDonald’s - a total of 15,946, including branches. Balsam Lake Public Library is celebrating National Library Week by these events.

Author visit William Kent Krueger author of the Cork O’Connor mysteries set in the Minnesota northwoods will be at the Balsam Lake Library Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. Please join us as Krueger talks about being an author of books from the northwoods. Discussion, book signing and refreshments.

Open house We invite you to Balsam Lake Public Library for an open house Wednesday, April 16.

Take a kid - your own or someone else’s - to discover a world of information. The library is one of the few places that doesn’t charge admission! Drawings and refreshments!

Book club and book review The book club and book review meets Wednesday, April 16, at 3 p.m. “Three Cups of Tea,” by Greg Mortenson is our selection. It is a very moving story about the power of the humanitarian spirit.

Love to read and hang out with friends Are you looking for other people who share the same obsession? Join a teen book club for sixth grade and up. Meet at the Balsam Lake Library (under the water tower)... Ride the activity bus right to our door. Club will meet again on Tuesday, April 15, at 6 p.m.

Hobby and craft group Join us Saturday, April 26, at 10 a.m. here at the library. Bring a hobby or craft of your choice. Share ideas, learn new hobbies, hone skills and enjoy camaraderie. All ages welcome. We have rug hookers, knitters, artists and more. We meet every other Saturday morning.

Balsam Lake Public Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake. Hours are Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Milltown Public Library April Stop by the library to find out what’s so great about April, besides spring!

During National Library Week, April 1319, we’ll have stickers and treats at the circulation desk for customers. During TV Turn Off Week, April 21-25, we’ll have fun family activities each night from 4 p.m. until the library closes. TV Turn Off Week activities include an Open Arts night, Duct Tape Workshop, Book-making Workshop, Puppetry, and a Music and Munchies night.

Book club Calling all bibliophiles, rabid readers and literary looky-loos. No book assignments and no boring discussions. The next gathering of the Milltown Book Club will be May 5 at 7 p.m. The Milltown Book Club is a forum for everyone to talk about the books they love and

hate, recommend books, and share their passion for reading. At our April meeting, we’ll spend some time talking about Old Favorites and Classics. Refreshments will be provided.

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 10 a.m. yearround. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Library poetry contest to be held BURNETT/POLK COUNTIES –To celebrate National Poetry Month, the Polk County Library Federation is hosting a poetry contest. The event will run from April 1- April 18 with entries to be turned in by 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 18, at the student’s local library or mailed to the federation.

This year the federation will be working with the Clear Lake Library as part of the “Between Fences” exhibit. Students in grades three – 12 are encouraged to write an original poem that somehow ties into the theme of fences.

Some ideas are: fences in farm life, boundaries, are fences good/bad or unAmerican, and how we build fences around our lives. Awards will be given in three categories: third – fifth, sixth – eighth grades and ninth – 12th grades.

The entries will be judged in the following areas: Aptness of the title, does the title have meaning? Impact - does the poem “jump” out at the reader? Poems with impact will usually be the finalists from which winners are chosen. Imagery, mental image created by imagination or memory. Does the poet use

original and vivid descriptions throughout the body of the poem? Meaning reader has a real sense of what the poet is saying. The basic theme or the message of the poem. Craftsmanship includes word choice, aptness of phrase, freshness of rhyme, balance of lines against one another, rhythmic quality, absence of redundancy and economy of words.

Winners will be announced and awards given at a poetry reading on Saturday, April 26, from 4-6 p.m. at the Clear Lake Community Center. Winning poets will have the opportunity to read their poem for a live audience.

This is a countywide contest, and they will be enlisting the help of school media specialists, writing teachers and local librarians. Teens have 2-1/2 weeks to write their poems and must submit their entry by a set deadline.

Questions: Call Molly Kessler, youth services librarian at 485-8680. This event is being sponsored by a grant received by the Hugh J. Andersen Foundation. submitted

Clear Lake Public Library Traveling Smithsonian exhibit “Between Fences” is here! Come join us for this rare opportunity to see a Smithsonian exhibition. Lots of exciting events are planned. Brochures can be found at your local library and also at tourism centers throughout the area. Information is also available at clearlakelibrary.org or fencesatclearlake.com.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Friday: noon - 5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

We can be reached by phone at 715-263or by e-mail at 2802 clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Frederic Public Library Celebrate National Library Week Drop in anytime during library open hours April 14 - 19 to help us celebrate the contributions of libraries to their communities. Although this week is set aside to allow us to speak about the value of libraries and librarians in the 21st century, the message should not be heard for one week only. Refreshments, special displays, and door prizes will be offered all week, so please stop by to show your support for public libraries.

Wear your favorite color Preschool children accompanied by caregivers are invited for stories and activities all about colors on Wednesday, April 16, at 10:30 a.m.

Calling all young poets The Polk County Library Federation is sponsoring its 4th-annual poetry contest for students in grades 3 – 12. Entry forms and rules are available at the Frederic Library, and entries must be submitted no later than April 18 to the library.

Awards will be given in three categories, and the winners will be announced at the Clear Lake Community Center on April 26.

April book group discussions The Thursday morning reading group meets April 17 at 10 a.m. to discuss “Three Cups of Tea,” by Greg Mortenson, an injured mountain climber who was sheltered and cared for in a remote Pakistani village, and in gratitude he promised to build them a school. The evening book group will attend the Clear Lake community book discussion of “The Milagro Beanfield War,” by John Nichols on April 17 at 2 p.m. at the community center. The book discussion is being held in conjunction with the free Smithsonian special exhibit “Between Fences,” which can be seen at the Clear Lake community center April 12 through May 24. If you would like to be part of the exhibit tour and book discussion April 17, please contact the library for more information. Copies of the books are available at the library and new members are always welcome.

Knitters give big Are you an accomplished knitter, or would you like to learn the craft? A group of energetic women has chosen the month of April to launch their Knitters Give Big program, which asks knitters to give to a charity of their choice or to the Frederic School District. People are encouraged to host their own group

or gather at the Mud Hut or the Frederic Library to knit during open hours. The library is accepting completed hats, mittens, and scarves for donation to the school district, and the library is also collecting yarn for projects. If you would like to learn to knit or brush up on your skills, classes meet at the Frederic Senior Center the first, second and fourth Mondays from 6 to 8 p.m. Stop in to drop off your knitted items or yarn and see the knitting display at the library. One knitter gives, many knitters give big.

Just a few weeks remain to meet the food shelf challenge The next time you come to the library, be sure to bring some food item for the food shelf. You will feed people in need, and the weight of your items will help our local pantry receive a larger monetary donation from the Feinstein Foundation, a group dedicated to alleviating hunger. If you prefer to write a check, the library will make certain it is also delivered to the food shelf.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular open hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Aaron Jorgenson leads the way as his family makes the trek to the library during the March 31 snowstorm.

The Frederic Library is a convenient place for friends to meet, visit, and surf the Internet together. – Photos submitted

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Composting, the Simple Science Composting is a natural process. You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive artificial additives to break down your organic scraps and turn them into something useful. Composting is done by a wide variety of organisms that are found naturally in organic matter. They work together, feeding on your pile (and each other), to break materials down.

Like any simple recipe, you’ll get the best results if you use the right mix of ingredients to make your compost pile.

The key materials are nitrogen-rich greens, carbon-rich browns, water and air.

Greens provide nitrogen, and act as a source of protein for the microbes that are hard at work in your compost pile.

Some examples are: green leaves, coffee grounds, tea bags, plant trimmings, raw fruit and vegetable scraps, and fresh grass clippings.

Browns are a source of carbon, and provide energy for the microbes. Examples of browns include: Dried grasses, leaves and some weeds, straw, wood chips, twigs and branches, sawdust, shredded newspaper, corncobs and stalks.

As living things, the microbes in your compost pile need water and air to work and live. Water allows microbes to

grow and travel around in the pile decompose to materials. Turning your pile each week with a spade or pitchfork will provide Jen Barton air to aid decomposition and control odors.

While many materials can be composted, there Reycling are some items Control that you should Commission keep out of your home compost pile. Excluding foods with meat, dairy or oils, pet feces, weeds gone to seed, diseased plants, and ash from charcoal or coal will minimize odors and keep your pile from attracting wildlife and curious dogs. Since compost is generally used for a soil improvement, you want to keep it free of plant diseases and unhealthy bacteria.

If you’re just starting a compost pile, here are the basics to get you started.

Start with a layer of browns, laying down 4-6 inches of twigs or other coarse carbons on the bottom of the pile for good air circulation. Then, add layers of nitrogen and carbon materials making

EARTH NOTES

layers about 4-6 inches thick. Once you turn the pile the first time, these materials will get mixed together and compost more efficiently. Most materials will decompose faster if they are broken or chopped into smaller pieces, as it makes more surface area available to your composters and water. Water your pile; your compost pile should be moist, kind of like a wrung-out sponge. Squeeze a handful of compost; if small beads of water appear between your fingers, you have enough water. Your pile will get water from rain, as well as the moisture in the greens — for example; fresh grass clippings are nearly 80-percent water by weight. If the pile gets too wet, you can turn it more frequently to dry it, or add more dry brown materials to soak up the excess moisture.

Once you build your pile, the real composters get to work — bacteria, fungi and insects help break down the materials in your compost bin. As the organic materials decompose, your pile will get hot on the inside and you might see some steam. In about a week, your compost will be ready for turning. Use a pitchfork or shovel to mix up the layers of green and brown and move materials toward the center of the pile. You can empty your bin and relayer, or just work materials around inside of the bin.

Break up clumps of material and wet

the pile as needed. The composting process can be pretty quick in the summer months. Your compost pile may no longer heat up after just a few weeks.

Look in your pile for finished compost — material that is dark and crumbly, fresh-smelling, and no longer looks like what you originally put into your bin.

Your compost can really pay off in the yard or garden. While compost is not a fertilizer, it can contain nutrients, which improve plant growth. By using compost, you can improve the soil and reduce your use of fertilizer and water.

Try mixing in compost to improve soil.

In sandy soils, compost acts like a sponge, retaining water and nutrients where it can be reached by plant roots.

In clay soils, compost makes the ground more porous, creating tiny holes and passageways that help soil drain more quickly. Ideas for finished compost include: spread compost on your lawn to help fill in low spots, use as mulch for landscaping and garden plants (mulch covers the soil around plants, protecting the soil from erosion and the drying effects of wind and sun), and of course, mix compost into pots for potted plants.

Composting can save you money and be a great activities for kids to get involved with, while beautifying your lawn and garden. By composting we can all reap a heap of benefits!

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Knitters invite crocheters to join the Give Big challenge FREDERIC – The Frederic School Community Education Knitting Class is challenging other knitting enthusiasts to knit for charity during the month of April.

Inspired by Oprah’s Big Give, the project is called Knitters Give Big. Area knitters have embraced the challenge by making hats, mittens and scarves for the Frederic School District. The group is now inviting their “cousins,” the cro-

Danielle Nelson is fashioning a bright yellow scarf as young and old knitters are busy with a variety of items on Monday nights at the senior center.

Experienced hands knit and purl the soft yarn into a warm hat in a few hours. Irene Peterson displays one of her mock cable hats to be donated to Knitters Give Big. – Photos by Colleen Draxler

cheters, to join the challenge.

Get your friends together to knit or crochet for your favorite charity. There are many needs in Polk and Burnett counties. Host a group in your home, business or church. People are welcome to gather at the Frederic Public Library and the Mud Hut during regular business hours and at the Frederic Senior Center the first, second and fourth Mondays in April from 6-8 p.m.

The Frederic Senior Center was full of lively conversation and busy needles as 26 knitters gathered last Monday evening for the Knitters (and Crocheters) Give Big gathering. Join them next Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. Lessons are available for beginners.

The Frederic Public Library has a knitting display set up by the front desk featuring pattern books and knitted items.

The library also serves as a drop off for completed items and accepts yarn donations for the Knitters Give Big challenge.

One knitter gives – many knitters give big! Stop by the library and see what happens when the community joins to-

gether for a good cause. Pick up a skein of yarn there and start knitting….or crocheting.

Any questions about the project should be directed to the Frederic Community Education office at 715-327-4868.

– submitted

Candlelight vigil held in Polk County

A gurney was also pushed with a puppet and teddy bear representing the children who suffer from abuse or neglect.

The candles were put in paper cups in order to keep them lit during the silent walk of the candlelight vigil in Frederic. – Photos

by Brenda Sommerfeld

Jan Kelton, Polk County Victim Witness Coordinator, spoke about ways to help prevent child abuse. She also told about the many different places that Polk County has available for people who need help and support to go. The Community Referral Agency, Inc. and Polk County’s Human Services were among those named.

During the walk around Main Street of Frederic, each participant represented a child abuse report. A bell was also rung every few steps in order to recognize the victims of abuse and neglect right here in Polk County.

Many different school districts in Polk County held a candlelight vigil on Wednesday, April 2, at 6:30 p.m. It was organized by Polk County’s Child Advocacy Referral Interagency Networking Group to recognize April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month. Frederic began their vigil at the public library. Here people wait, with their lit candles, to go outside for the walk.

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Frederic Drama Club to perform "Little Women"

The Frederic High School Drama Club will perform the play “Little Women: Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy.” You can see performances in the Frederic Elementary School auditorium on Friday and Saturday, April 11 and 12, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 13, at 2 p.m. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Auxiliary holds 24th-annual craft and gift sale Tristan Drake restocks the pumpkin muffins he made all by himself at Saturday’s Grantsburg Legion Auxiliary craft fair. – Photos

by Priscilla Bauer

Bears are usually rivals of Packers and Vikings, but Angela Van Guilder of Webster created Packer- and Viking-friendly bears. Van Guilder was selling her handmade teddy bears at the Grantsburg Legion Auxiliary craft sale last Saturday.

There was a lot of hanging around at the Grantsburg Legion Auxiliary’s craft sale Saturday by people wanting to see all the craft and gift items for sale. This shopper checks out an item amid dozens of decorator clothes hangers.

People were not the only ones attending the Legion Auxiliary’s craft sale last weekend. This cute puppy got lots of attention and cuddling when his owner brought him to the sale held at the Grantsburg Legion Hall Saturday.

Girl Scouts assist other Scouts Cora and Jessica Bauer of Webster are Girl Scout Youth Event Assistants who volunteer their weekends to help out the Girl Scout Council of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valley with events for younger Girl Scouts. The sisters recently helped 100 Scouts for a special project that included touring the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. They also recently volunteered their weekends to help out at Camp Lakamage in Scandia, Minn., helping younger Girl Scouts earn their junior horse patch. – Photo submitted

Berlyn Warren was delighted with her donut as she and her mom shopped at the Grantsburg Legion Auxiliary craft sale. The auxiliary also sold refreshments to the many people stopping to shop at the annual spring event held at the newly remodeled Legion hall last Saturday.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Third-annual Battle of the Kings Chess Tournament LUCK – The third-annual Battle of the Kings Chess Championship, presented by Luck School Chess Club, was held March 29 at Luck School. Twelve students competed in over four rounds for trophies in two divisions. New this year was Wisconsin Scholastic Chess Federation backing. “WSCF is a nonprofit organization that promotes scholastic chess in Wisconsin.” says Lydia Rennicke, Luck School Chess Club coach and tournament director. “The Battle of the Kings is WSCF sanctioned, and results are posted on their Web site.

WSCF has a ranking system, with over 2,400 students.

Tournaments in the eastern part of the state have over 300 students, and many elementary, middle and high

Eli Marek, Sam Nelson, Derek Rennicke, Charlie Carlson and Jordon Hendrickson are shown holding their medals from the tournament.

Luck student Gabe Hendrickson (facing) plays Amery student Dan Eastman.

Luck student Sam Nelson (L) takes on Eli Marek.

school teams compete. The high school state chess champion was decided in Oshkosh last week.

“Our tournament is both USCF and WSCF sanctioned. We have a small group, but some really good players. Jesse Rennicke, who won the K-8 division, won a medal in Oshkosh at the state championship two weeks ago."

Winners at the Battle of the Kings are: K-5: First place Derek Rennicke, who won all four rounds, second place Eli Marek; and third place Sam Nelson.

K-12: First place Jesse Rennicke, who won a tie break blitz chess game against second-place finisher Dan Eastman, who in turn blitzed out third-place finisher Gabe Hendrickson.

The first-place team trophies went to Luck School, second place to Amery and third to the home school.

“Like in most things, tournament experience does tell,” says coach Rennicke. It’s not only that the student plays more carefully, but the pressure of making a wrong move is less likely to throw them off. Students learn to trust their own judgment, and to look for imaginative solutions to difficult problems. Chess, like life, is full of surprise answers.

Players were able to use a giant chess board in between rounds, and get in a little basketball on the courts

Students study the boards for their next move. – Photos submitted outside. The day wrapped up with a bughouse tournament, a team chess game that involves passing over pieces to a partner, and lots of talking and laughing. It seemed a good way to drop the stress of competing, and have a good laugh before the end of the day. - submitted

SCF Cub Scout Pack Pinewood Derby St. Croix Falls Cub Scout Pack 160 held their Pinewood Derby races on Saturday, April 5. Twenty-six Scouts and their families gathered at the Dresser Village Hall for this event. The top two winners from each den will be advancing to the district race to be held at Trollhaugen on Saturday, April 19. The top winners from each den were: Tigers Jacob McKinven - first, Collin Anderson – second (missing from photo); Wolves Joshua Skallet - first, Caleb Gearhart - second; Bears Jeremiah Peer - first, Sam McKinven - second; First Year Webelos Dalton Kloos - first, Treven Gearhart, second; Second Year Webelos Mark Wampfler - first, Brett Kuenkel - second; Pack overall winners for speed were Mark Wampfler - first, Jeremiah Peer second, Brett Kuenkel - third, consolation Joshua Skallet; Winners for design were Brett Kuenkel - first, Jacob McKinven second, Spencer Steek - third. – Photo submitted

Alternatives to violence workshop set LUCK - An Alternatives to Violence Project workshop is being presented Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, near Luck for those who want to become better peacemakers.

With all the violence in the world, and even some in schools, homes, taverns and trails, finding nonviolent solutions to conflict is an important skill.

This workshop also provides important communitybuilding skills that can be used in churches, neighbor-

hoods or clubs to build a healthier organization. First developed in 1975, in New York state, this all-volunteer effort is now in over 50 states and about 30 countries.

Originally created by the Quakers, people of all faiths have contributed to expand the range and versatility of these workshops. This is an intensive, fun-filled opportunity to learn about yourself and others as you participate in exercises. The cost is $45, with a sliding scale.

Anathoth Community Farm, Luck and Friends for a

Non-Violent World, St. Paul, Minn., are co-sponsoring this workshop. Jon Shafer, who has 22 years of experience in facilitating these workshops, is one of the organizers. Please call him to register by April 23, or with questions at 715-866-8802. Those from a distance can be provided free lodging at Anathoth. – from Alternatives to Violence Project

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

Webster/Siren Community Education held woodworking class

by Philip G. Ruffolo Director of Community Education SIREN – On Wednesday evening, March 26, several proud students and new instructor Holly Jo Carlson completed eight weeks of planning, executing, and finishing a broad assortment of woodworking projects at the Siren School Community Education class.

These projects ranged from fairly small and simple to rather large and complex.

This year, woodworking at Siren School was a new class offering through Community Education. Their new instructor, Holly Jo Carlson, and her assistant, Brad Anderson, (recent graduates of the WITC Wood Techniques program) were wonderfully able and willing to be put through their paces. I must note they returned the favor by putting the students through theirs.

A lot of ground was covered and a lot of admirable progress was achieved by all the students. Students were, without

Student Audry Costerisan displays pleasure on completing this towel rack project.

Jennifer Johnson diligently planes edges for that “perfect fit.”

Brad Anderson helps student Donna Kelly with the glue-up stage of her shelving project. – Photos submitted exception, immensely gratified by what they learned as well as the results of their efforts.

Gratitude is extended to District Superintendent Scott Johnson and Tech Ed instructor Ron Dorn for opening the shop facilities for this new class.

Congratulations to instructors Carlson and Anderson for job very well done. - submitted Students Donna Kelly and former school principal Buzz Byrne examine their results of routing a sign for Kelly.

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APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Frederic sends students to state music competition

Three bell choirs will move on to participate in the state music competition in May. Pictured (in no particular order) Wednesday high school bell choir: Alison Anderson, Cathryn McConnell, Will Primm, Haley Kurkowski, Joe Draxler, Brady McWilliams, Calla Karl, Marissa Nelson, Samantha Nelson, Isabel Lexen and Kendra Wells. Middle school bell choir: Corissa Schmidt, Lauren Domagala, April Halverson, Natalie Phernetton, McKenna Cook, Emily Wells, Kendra Mossey, Bradley Knauber, Chris Hopp, Ian Lexen, Erik Stoner and Michael Tesch. Thursday high school bell choir: Ashley Heine, Savanna Pearson, Amy Soppeland, Zach Anderson, Megan Anderson and Bobbi Jo O’Brien. Not pictured: Megan Neumann and Holly Stoner. Other participants: Sarah Lexen, Adrianna Otte and Candace Buck. Not pictured: Ben G. Anderson and River Karl. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld FREDERIC – There are 39 students from the Frederic High School who accomplished “first star” ratings during the solo-ensemble competition on Tuesday, April 1, in Eau Claire. These musicians will perform at the state festival coming up in May. The middle school, Wednesday high school and Thursday high school bell choirs will all move on along with other participants.

Many will perform with instruments. Savanna Pearson will perform a clarinet solo, Haley Kurkowski an alto sax solo, Holly Stoner an alto sax solo and Amy Soppeland a piano solo and an alto sax solo.

Others will perform with percussion. Pearson, Stoner, Soppeland, River Karl, Bobbi Jo O’Brien, Megan Neumann and Samantha Nelson will be involved with this part.

Kurkowski, Soppeland, Ben G. Anderson, Sarah Lexen, Adrianna Otte, Megan Anderson and Candace Buck will all show their vocal skills in performances.

Buck will also do a musical theatre solo. - submitted

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

Clothing and food shelf open to help

Rhunae Buskirk unpacks the Curves recent donation to the food shelf. Use of the emergency food shelf is up so far this year, so donations to the food shelf are needed to keep up with demand. – Photos by Sherill Summer

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER – Maybe it is a sign of the slow economy. Use of the new-to-you clothing store and emergency food shelf on Webster’s Main Street has increased substantially so far in 2008. Nonetheless, Mary Andrea, outreach coordinator for Indianhead Community Action Agency and director of the Burnett County location wants to get the word out that the doors are open to anyone in Burnett County who is looking for affordable clothing or needs emergency food. Andrea feels that there are too many in the county that do not know of their existence.

The Webster center is part of Indianhead Action Agency umbrella that provides a number of services in six counties, ranging from Head Start and home services to the food shelf and clothing store that are part of the outreach programs. Andrea tries to obtain

Mary Andrea, outreach coordinator at Indianhead Community Action Agency at the Webster new-to-you clothing store and emergency food shelf.

grants to assist in providing emergency food, but funding sources are tight with funds lately, and the competition for funds is fierce. This is why the clothing store is so important because the proceeds from the clothing store pays for much of the operating costs of the center, such as rent, electricity and upkeep.

It is a win-win situation as donations not only keep the food shelf open for those in dire straits; donations also become a source for affordable necessities.

Clothing and other household items generally sell for $5 a bag.

Last year the emergency food shelf collected 212,334 pounds of food to distribute to needy households. The goal is to provide all the meals of the day for five days, once a month. At times, however, the food shelf is short of food, and only three days worth of meals are given.

About 195 to 225 families a month use the emergency food shelf, according to Andrea. This is up from about 75 families two years ago. It goes without saying that the amount of food donated will need to increase throughout 2008 to adequately help those asking for help.

Andrea is willing to help in other ways besides food and clothing. The center is a referral agency and can provide information on other programs available for households going through a rough time.

Andrea also takes the time to talk to people and listen to the stories of people’s lives. Andrea says that some people really need to hear a kind word. They need people to care.

It is for all of these reasons that Andrea wants to get the word out that the center needs donations of clothing and other necessities and food so that it can stay open to help those who are asking for help.

The new-toyou clothing store offers affordable clothing for all of Burnett County.

The proceeds of the store pays for rent and other operational costs for the Webster’s Main Street location, keeping the clothing store and food shelf open.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Blood drive sponsored at high school

The Luck High School Student Council sponsored a blood drive at the high school on Wednesday, April 2. Many 16-year-olds were able to donate for the first time due to the recent change in the minimum donation age requirements in Wisconsin. Luck students Jamison Gross, Missy Erickson, Adam Anderson, and Hannah Melin wait in line with substitute teacher Rich Bibeau to donate blood.

Junior Ali Lehmann happily donates a pint of blood.

– Photos submitted

Luck High School Solo and Ensemble

Luck High School’s State Solo amd Ensemble participants – bottom row (L to R): Curtis Donald, Wally Rich and Mary Faye MaidenMuller. Row two: Brett Larson, Jerod Buck, Gina Armour and Tanya Holm. Row three: Jordan Hall, Kenny Sanford, Mitchell Larson and Ben Panek. Row four: Ashley Valentine, Kassi Ingram, Roger Steen and James Longhenry. Top row: Tyler Petersen and Derek Letch. Missing: Christine Franzel, David Franzel, Morgan Denny, Karissa Giller and Grace Jenson.

Luck High School’s Solo and Ensemble participants – bottom row (L to R): Curtis Donald, Jerod Buck, Gina Armour, Tanya Holm, Chantalle Rowley, Rebecca Hutton, Nick Emerson and Kenny Sanford. Middle row: Jordan Hall, Mitchell Larson, Wally Rich, Kelly Stokes, Kassi Ingram, Ashley Valentine, Emily Phillips, Mary Faye MaidenMüller, Kayla Bubendorf, Lacy Sellent and Alyssa Hutton. Top row: James Longhenry, Derek Letch, Tyler Petersen, Jade Schrock, Kristine Wortman, Aushleana Branville, Brianna Dietmeier, Roger Steen and Ben Panek. Missing: Christine Franzel, David Franzel, Morgan Denny, Karissa Giller, Grace Jenson, Josie Kurkowski, Brett Larson and Megan Panek. – Photos submitted

Destination ImagiNation at Osceola

The Destination ImagiNation competition was held in Osceola on March 29.

The Luck fourth-and fifth-grade team participated in the Obstacles of Course challenge and placed third. The D.I. team members are: Reilly Giller, Katie Pfaff, coach Joie Nielsen, Tanner Nielsen, Emma Pedersen and Jes Pedersen.

– Photo submitted

Unity Middle School held hoops for heart fundraiser The Unity Middle School physical education program, along with the tremendous help from nurse Kirsten Wagner teamed up with the American Heart Association to raise money for a great cause. The students were given approximately one month to raise money, in order to help with costs associated with researching heart disease and stroke. Their 2008 campaign was dedicated to Katie Jensen, who was born with a heart defect.

The students were also given prizes for the amount of money they raised. After the fundraising was done and all the money collected was totaled up, the Unity Middle School students raised over $4,500! As a result of their fundraising effort, Mr. Holicky’s homeroom class received a pizza party for being the homeroom with the most money raised. Also, Samantha Palmquist was given an iPod Shuffle for her raising the largest amount of money. – Photos submitted Cory Nelson, middle school phy ed teacher being slimed by the four top fundraisers.

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

Frederic third-quarter honor roll Grade 7 Charles Lindberg, Emily Wells, Natalie Phernetton, McKenna Rognrud, McKenna Cook, Vince Nelson, Paige Burton, Ian Lexen, Sierra Sorensen and Larissa Houtari.

Grade 8 Christopher Hopp, Seneca Lundeen Brooks, Erik Stoner, April Halverson, Megan Amundson, Lauren Domagala, Leah Engebretson, Corissa Schmidt, Nicholas Rognrud, Alexandra Lundblade, Jordyn Siebenthal, Michelle Jensen, Bryce Williamson, Joseph Engelhart, Dayton Rivera, Autumn Schmidt, Kristina Marcyan, Michael Tesch, Maria Miller, Sara Underwood, Bradley Knauber, Allison Martin and Ray Kurkowski.

Grade 9 Samantha Nelson, Tanesha Carlson, Sarah Knauber, Daniel Halverson, Allison Anderson, Isabel Lexen, Anthony Peterson, Jade Johnson, Josiah Lund, Sage Karl, Kayla Nelson, Vanessa Neumann, Ashley Bergeron, Jesse Chouinard, Robert Kirk, Calla Karl, Joseph Draxler, Karry Simpson, Amanda Blok, Ryan Phernetton, Allison Gustafson, Trae Gehl and Krysta Laqua.

Grade 10 Kendra Wells, Alexsandra Lonetti, William Primm, Christine Chenal, Amanda Runnels, Joel Anderson, Haley Kurkowski, Adam Hardenbergh, Joel Knauber, Bradley Thomas, Terri McKinney, Baylee Heimstra, Marissa

Nelson, Ethan Cook, Cody Hallanger, Gregory Puetz, Nicole Root, Michael Elrod, Danielle Pearce, Justin Pyke, Cathryn McConnell, Kimberly Jones, Chad Chenal, Zach Peterson and Daneille Peterson.

Grade 11 Megan Anderson, Rebecca Anderson, Adrianna Otte, Sarah Lexen, Bobbi Jo O’Brien, May Tilokruangchai, Amy Jones, Stephanie Tido, Brett Williamson, Brittany Mortensen, Orianna Tesch, Brent Crandell, Zachary Anderson, Kelly Daeffler, Candace Buck, Amanda Robinson, David Harlander, Chelsey Chute, Peter Draxler, Rhaya Larson, Andrew Tyler, Benjamin Knauber, Ana Miller, Corrie Pearce and Cody Gruel.

Grade 12 Megan Neumann, Haris Ghazi, Amy Soppeland, Michelle Owens, Perry Anderson, Erin Schmidt, Holly Stoner, River Karl, Samuel Halverson, Alexandria Delosier, Lisa Chelmo, Jessica Owens, Connie Yim, Melanie Chenal, Ashley Heine, Alexandra Puetz, Benjamin G. Anderson, Christi Jensen, Kyle Swenson, Peter Carlson, Dustin Gabrielson, Alyssa Fuller, Latasha Campbell, Kanan Hackett, Austin Boykin, Roy White, Kelly Wondra, Juan Polanco, Savanna Pearson and Nolan Neumann.

Unity juniors discuss how the media portrays gender

Brooke Whitley, social worker for Polk County, visited all of the juniors at Unity High School to discuss how the media portrays gender. Her appearance was part of an ongoing effort to promote character education throughout the Unity School District. Students are exploring the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Students examined the differences in brain development between males and females and then explored the role early fairy tales play in teaching children gender roles. As a final exercise, students analyzed magazine advertisements in their depiction of genders. – Photos courtesy Unity High School

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

OBITUARIES Duane Halverson DuWayne Halverson, 57, Grantsburg, died April 5, 2008. Memorial services will be held Friday, April 11, at 11 a.m. at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster with visitation prior to services from 10 to 11 a.m.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

A full obituary will follow at a later date.

John W. Bytnar John W. Bytnar, 57, a resident of Siren, died Sunday, April 6, 2008, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

A visitation will be held Thursday, April 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. with funeral service at 7 p.m. at the SwedbergTaylor Funeral Home, Siren Chapel, Siren.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Siren, was entrusted with arrangements.

A full obituary will follow at a later date.

Shirley Briggs Augenstein Shirley “Sue” (Roewert) Augenstein, 79, of Edgerton, a former resident of Frederic for nearly 10 years, died after a brief illness on Friday, April 4, 2008, at the Don and Marilyn Anderson Hospice Center, Madison. During her stay in Frederic, friends and members of Pilgrim Lutheran Church knew her as Sue Briggs, wife of the Rev. Charles W. Briggs.

She was one of two children, born in Janesville on Feb. 20, 1929, the daughter of Charles and Anne (Armit) Roewert. She graduated from Janesville High School in 1947. She later graduated from Rockford Business College and was employed as an executive secretary at the Hough Shade Company. She married Charles W. Briggs in 1949, and later married Neil Augenstein on July 10, 1982 in Janesville, and resided in Edgerton. Neil preceded her in death on March 28, 1997.

She was an executive secretary at Kerry Foods, Beloit, for 15 years until her retirement. She was a very active member of Central Lutheran Church in Edgerton. She attended the EAA in Oshkosh for over 25 years, and took a flight lesson at age 78.

She is survived by her four children, Carole (Carter) Ayres of Madison, Charles Briggs of Wausau, Becky Briggs of Janesville and Susan Briggs (Tom Finnessy) of McFarland, and by four stepsons, Jon (Kris) Augenstein, Paul (Julie) Augenstein, Mark Augenstein, Tim (Dawn) Augenstein and their families; and four grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, James Roewert; and her stepson, Steve Augenstein.

Funeral services were held April 8 at Central Lutheran Church in Edgerton with the Rev. James Johnson officiating. Burial will follow in Milton Lawns Memorial Park.

The Whitcomb-Lynch-Albrecht Funeral Home in Edgerton was entrusted with arrangements.

Helen McCann White Helen McCann White, 91, writer, editor and archivist, died April 3, 2008 at home in St. Paul, Minn.

She was born in Minneapolis on Oct. 16, 1916, the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth McCann. Her father was a Methodist minister, and she lived in nine small towns in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa during her youth. As a student at Hamline University (1935-39), she worked at the Minnesota Historical Society as an assistant archivist. While attending graduate school at the University of Minnesota, she met Henry Gilbert White; they married in 1941 and had three children, Barbara, Timothy and Bruce. Gilbert’s work as a resource economist took the family to cities across the U.S. and to Tokyo, Manila and Paris. During these years, Helen researched, wrote and taught. They spent many summers in Minnesota, living on the family’s vacation property near Almelund.

In 1965, when the Whites moved back to Minnesota, Helen returned to work at the Minnesota Historical Society. She pioneered a program of microfilm publication for important manuscript collections; she supervised the society’s acquisition of the Northern Pacific Railroad papers; she conducted oral history interviews of North Shore fishermen; and worked on early applications of computers in indexing history.

In 1970, she left the society, moved to Taylors Falls, Minn., and began publishing The Dalles Visitor, an annual newspaper highlighting the history of the Upper St. Croix Valley.

White’s first home in Taylors Falls was the Schottmuller Building. While restoring that building, she hired local craftsmen and artisans to renovate a modest side building, the former Taylors Falls Jail, into the one of Minnesota’s first bed-and-breakfasts.

She served on the State Historic Records Advisory Board from 1976 to 1982. In 1984, White was named Independent Scholar of the Year by the Minnesota Humanities Commission. In 2003 the Chisago County Historical Society recognized her as Historian of the Year and in 2007 she was honored by the Polk County Historical Society as History Woman of the Year.

She is survived by siblings, Phyllis Caine, Rosemary Banta and Edward McCann; children, Barbara Wright, Timothy and Bruce; and grandchildren, Ralph, Richard, Robert Wright and Edward White. Memorials preferred to the Democratic Party and to the Minnesota Historical Society.

A memorial gathering will take place at the Taylors Falls Memorial Community Center in Taylors Falls on Sunday, April 20, at 1 p.m.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

OBITUARIES Laura Cornelison

Lillian D. Madsen

Gladys D. Untiedt Turner

Laura Cornelison, King, formerly of Webster, died peacefully at Riverside Medical Center at Waupaca, as a result of congestive heart failure, with family at her side on April 1, 2008. She was 88 years old.

She was born Feb. 3, 1920, the daughter of William Brandenburg and Loretta (Hattie) Schroeder Brandenburg. She attended Tadpole Elementary School and graduated from Spooner High School. She completed a cosmetology course at Miller Vocational School in Minneapolis, Minn., and subsequently worked as a beautician. During World War II, Laura worked for Northwest Airlines and Alameda Air Station repairing aircraft instruments.

She was married to LeRoy Cornelison on June 19, 1954.

Laura also worked at Shell Lake Hospital for 10 years, retiring in 1980. Laura loved her Lord and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church where she remained all her life.

Preceding her in death were her parents; daughter Barbara (John) Brockman; brothers Herman (Frances) Brandenburg, Harry Brandenburg, Carl Brandenburg; and sisters Marie, Emilie and Clara (Joyce) Fessenden.

She is survived by her husband, LeRoy Cornelison, King; daughters Nancy (Harry) Machtan, Baraboo, JoAnn (Tom) Schulz, Madison, Judy Cornelison, Grantsburg; sons Dennis (Lynn) Cornelison, Milton, Fla., and Paul Cornelison, Shell Lake; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many friends.

A memorial service will be held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Webster at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 10.

Lillian D. Madsen, Luck, died March 27, 2008, at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center. She was 95 years old.

Lillian Dorothea Kopecky was born Aug. 20, 1912, in Colby, to James and Catherine Kopecky, the youngest of six children.

Soon afterwards, her father passed away, so the family moved to Clam Falls to be nearer relatives. They lived there for many years, eventually moving to the village of Frederic where Lillian graduated from high school.

Lillian attended Polk County Normal in St. Croix Falls and earned her teaching certificate. She loved teaching, especially grades five through eight, and she cared deeply for all of her students. Lillian taught in Clam Falls, North Star, Sterling and Eureka and Oak Hill.

While at the North Star School, Lillian met Lowell Madsen from Luck. In September of 1944, when Lowell was home on leave from the U.S. Navy, they were married in Minneapolis. The marriage lasted 57 years until Lowell’s death in October of 2001.

Lillian was a full-time housewife and mother. She was very involved in activities at Luck Lutheran Church and was a longtime member of the choir. Lillian had been a resident of the United Pioneer Home in Luck.

She is survived by her daughter, Gale, and son-inlaw, David; sisters-in-law, Elaine Madsen (Osceola) and Laura Sumpter (Hudson); nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Thursday, April 3, at Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, with the Rev. Mark Hall officiating. Music was provided by organist, Margie Nelson and soloist, Joanne Christiansen.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck, was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Gladys Dorothy (Untiedt) Turner of St. Croix Falls, died of a head injury Tuesday, March 25, 2008, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn. She was 80 years old.

She was born to Herman and Mary (Froderman) Untiedt on April 27, 1927, in Sioux Valley, Minn. She was the youngest of five children and the only daughter.

Gladys earned her degree from Mankato State Teachers College. She did some graduate work at the University of Minnesota. Her first of many teaching jobs was at Anoka High School, Anoka, Minn. Anoka was also where she met Marvin G. Turner. They married here and were blessed with the birth of their two children, Eric and Amy. Marvin, being a land acquisition officer for the federal government, gave the family many opportunities to live in some of the most beautiful areas of the country, including Stroudsburg, Pa., Moorestown, N.J., Ashland, and most recently St. Croix Falls.

Gladys loved teaching and taught as they moved around the country. She was employed at WITI Ashland campus where she taught business machines and at Unity High School, in the business department. She concluded her teaching career doing substitute teaching. Her students will agree she was quite a character.

Gladys was well-known in the community. She seldom forgot a name, a face, or a funny story. She wore many hats, both literally and figuratively. Due to a medical condition it was necessary that she guard her face from the sun. After many years of wearing outrageous hats, the brighter the better, she became known to many as “the hat lady.” Her many names included Glady, Googie, Grandma Glady, Mrs. T, H.B, and even the “toasted almond fudge lady,” because of her passion for chocolate.

She was preceded in death by parents; brothers; Robert, Raymond and Donald.

She is survived by brother, Arnold Untiedt; husband, Marvin G. Turner; children, Eric S. Turner, Amy (Denis) M. Bayle; grandchildren, Sarah Bayle, Krissa McKenzie (Christopher Johnson), Terra Turner, Andrea Turner, Bridgette Bayle and Phillip Bayle; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Those she left behind are invited to celebrate her life on April 19, 2008, at Fristad Lutheran Church, Centuria, with Pastor Mel Rau officiating. Visitation will be from noon - 2 p.m. with a memorial service beginning at 2 p.m.

The Edling Funeral Home, St. Croix Falls, was entrusted with arrangements.

June Elaine Chandler June Elaine (Rasmussen) Chandler, aged 74, of Brooklyn Center and Siren, died Thursday, March 20, 2008, at North Memorial Medical Center Hospice after a grueling battle with lung cancer.

June was born at home in Siren on June 13, 1933, to Chris and Goldie Rasmussen. As a kid she loved when her dad gave her a nickel to go uptown to buy a treat, usually a tomato or a Hershey bar. After graduating from Siren High School in 1951, June went to college in Superior and earned a two-year teaching certificate.

After deciding where to take a job by randomly placing pushpins in a map, she and her best friend Arlene Tobias set off for Fallon, Nev., where they spent the next two years earning their stripes teaching fifth and sixth grades. For almost 40 years, June taught in California, Guam, Venezuela, Webster and the Twin Cities, where she finally retired from the Robbinsdale School District in 1994.

In 1967, June married Donald Chandler, and in August of 1968 her daughter Jessie was born in Grantsburg.

June is survived by her beloved daughter Jessie and partner Betty, Coon Rapids; sister Pearl Hedlund (Gerald), nephew Paul Hedlund (Sue), nieces Mary Hedlund-Blomberg (Gene), and Susan Augustson (Scott), all of Grantsburg; and many beloved cousins and good friends.

A memorial service will be held in Siren at the United Methodist Church Wednesday, April 16, at 11 a.m. No formal attire, colorful casual only.

Ruth May Ritter Sachs Ruth May Ritter Sachs, a longtime resident of Danbury, died April 3, 2008, at the Continuing Care Center in Grantsburg. She was 96 years old.

Ruth was born in Hillsdale on April 28, 1911. She attended school in Barron. She moved to Minneapolis, and lived there for 46 years. Her profession was in the restaurant business. Three husbands preceded Ruth in death. She retired in 1982 to her lake home in Danbury on Long Lake. She loved her flowers, the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Ruth was a member of the Moose Lodge in Siren. She was a gifted artist.

Ruth was blessed with 11 siblings. Ruth is survived by her daughter, Darleen and son-in-law, Bob Ingram of Encinitas, Calif.; sister, Geneva Johnson of Minneapolis; half-brother, Thomas Ritter of Minneapolis; many nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held at the Wayside Cemetery in Barron on Monday, April 14, at 11 a.m. A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, April 15, at 2 p.m. with a time of gathering from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Janice E. Johnson Janice E. Johnson, Shell Lake, died April 4, 2008, at Indianhead Medical Center in Shell Lake. She was 72 years old.

She was born Nov. 18, 1935, in Catawba, to Andrew and Mildred (Ruff) Kiska.

Janice was a woman who put everyone else in her life at the top of the list. With this being said, she was also there for everyone in his or her time of need.

Whether it was something small or something big, she was there to offer her assistance and advice. This all came easy to her because she was not judgmental. As long as you were happy, that was all that mattered.

She is survived by her special friend, Vincent Johnson, Shell Lake; her children, Michael Johnson, Bloomer, Todd (Lori) Johnson, Hayward, Mark “Tony” (Laura) Johnson, Waupun, Jeanne Johnson, Milltown and Kenneth Johnson, Turtle Lake; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brother Andrew “Bill” (Marilyn) Kiska, St. Croix Falls; and sister Katherine (Ronald) Chinander, Minnetonka, Minn.

Funeral services were held April 7 at Pockat Funeral Home, Shell Lake, with the Rev. Norman Peterson officiating. Burial was in Hillside Cemetery, Ogema. Pallbearers were Neil Johnson, Lee Johnson, David Johnson, Nick Mueller and Jonavan Van Pelt.

Pockat Funeral Home, Shell Lake, was entrusted with arrangements.

Iver Gene Cross Iver Gene Cross, 71, of Barron, died peacefully on Sunday, April 6, 2008, of prostate cancer at Luther Midelfort Northland Hospital in Barron.

He was born Nov. 2, 1936, in St. Croix Falls, the son of Verle and Mildred (Harder) Cross.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Anderson Cross of Barron; children, David (Debra) Cross of Brunswick, Ga., Terry (Karen) Cross of Brunswick, Ga., Sue (Randy) Church of Barron; four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; brother, Lyle (Pat) Cross of Wolf Creek; sisters, Doris (James) Thompson of St. Croix Falls and Donna (Doug) Brown of North Branch, Minn. ,and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Harvey; and his first wife, Gwen.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 14, 11 a.m., at First Lutheran Church in Barron at 4 W. LaSalle Avenue with the Rev. Lisa Shank officiating. Burial will be in the Cushing Cemetery in Cushing.

Visitation will be held at First Lutheran Church in Barron prior to service, from 10 – 11 a.m.

The Rausch and Steel Funeral Home, Barron, was entrusted with arrangements.

Lester J. Coy Lester J. Coy, 77, of Grantsburg, died March 27, 2008, at Indianhead Medical Center in Shell Lake.

Lester was born Aug. 14, 1930, in Evergreen Park, Ill., to Thomas Sr. and Frances (Rueger) Coy. He attended Cook County, Ill., elementary school up to the eighth grade.

On Sept. 21, 1952, he was united in marriage to Gloria Ott. To this union, three children were born, Debra, Daniel and Scott.

Lester was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Shirley, Marge and Bearnice; brothers, Thomas Jr. and Robert; wife, Gloria on April 29, 1994; and his son, Daniel on July 20, 2001.

Lester is survived by his son, Scott (Amy) Coy of Siren; daughter, Debra (Dale) Hutton of Frederic; grandchildren, Sean, Courtney and Daniel Coy, Kristi, Cory and Lisa Hutton; and brother, Clarence (Ida) Coy of Two Rivers.

Lester was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He also was an excellent carpenter, which is what he did all of his life. He enjoyed watching his son, Scott, play softball in the summer, both regular and church leagues.

Lester was well-known for making daily stops at the Holiday Gas Station and Auto Stop, for his favorite crossword scratch-off tickets.

A memorial service was held Wednesday, April 2, at Bethany Lutheran Church, in Siren, with Pastor John Clasen officiating. Interment will be at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

CHURCH NEWS/OBITUARIES Signs

Coyote tracks showed up in the yard yesterday. We see fox tracks, too, and sometimes squirrel tracks run right up to the back door. And of course, the deer leave their prints throughout the yard and beyond. Yet I know people who Sally Bair never see the obvious signs of wildlife.

Signs from nature tell us what’s PERSPECTIVES happening outside. In the fall, less light and more darkness means leaves turn color and fall off, bears go into hibernation, and smaller animals head for warm burrows. In the spring, we see signs of melting snow, running sap, returning birds. However, not everyone notices these signs.

Life is filled with signs—of illness, danger or stress.

Yet, some people are too preoccupied with their busyness and business to see beyond their toes.

The Pharisees, the rulers of the Jews, were that way.

They kept bugging Jesus to “show us a sign,” but refused to see the signs he showed them every day. The Gospel of John relates eight signs that specifically point to God’s glory and his ability to meet people’s needs and restore their faith.

The Gospel of John, relates eight signs that specifically point to God’s glory and his ability to meet people’s needs and restore their faith. Jesus turned water into wine. He restored a ruler’s son to life at the point of death. He healed a hopeless cripple of 38 years.

He fed 5,000 people with few fish and little bread. He walked on the surface of the sea. He gave sight to a man born blind. He raised Lazarus from the dead.

He caused his disciples to catch boatfuls of fish after a day of catching nothing.

“And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” (John 20:30) Today Jesus offers us signs of his power and majesty, too. I think particularly of a close relative whom God supernaturally delivered from alcoholism and the soul-destroying effects of the past. I know of a woman instantly healed of Stage 4 cancer. I know a young man who was miraculously delivered from wild living which had caused him to be held in jail and who now is a pastor.

All the signs are in front of us—in nature, in God’s Word, in miracles and wonders. It’s our choice to believe them or not.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

ETERNAL

Men’s Ministry of Siren Covenant Church met

My Dad didn’t permit alcohol in the home, not even for cooking. But the stranger encouraged us to try it on a regular basis. He made I recently came across this story by an cigarettes look cool, cigars manly and pipes unknown author and felt it was worth distinguished. He talked freely (much too sharing. freely!) about sex. His comments were someA few months before I was born, my Dad times blatant, sometimes suggestive, and genmet a stranger who was new to our small erally embarrassing. I now know that my Tennessee town. From the beginning, Dad early concepts about relationships were influwas fascinated with this enchanting newenced strongly by the stranger. Time after comer and soon invited him to live with our time, he opposed the values of my parents, yet Garret he was seldom rebuked... and NEVER asked family. The stranger was quickly accepted and was around to welcome me into the Derouin to leave. world a few months later.

More than 50 years have passed since the As I grew up, I never questioned his place stranger moved in with our family. He has in my family. In my young mind, he had a THE blended right in and is not nearly as fascinatspecial niche. My parents were complemening as he was at first. Still, if you were to walk tary instructors: Mom taught me the word PREACHER’S into my parents’ den today you would still of God, and Dad taught me to obey it. But find him sitting over in his corner, waiting for the stranger? He was our storyteller. He someone to listen to him talk and watch him would keep us spellbound for hours on end draw his pictures. with adventures, mysteries and comedies. If His name? We just call him TV. I wanted to know anything about politics, After reading this story I was reminded of Psalms history or science, he always knew the answers about 101:3. No matter how you wish to translate God’s the past, understood the present and even seemed Word on this point, God’s desire is clear! able to predict the future! He took my family to the I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: (KJV) first major league ball game. He made me laugh, and I will set no worthless thing before my eyes: he made me cry. The stranger never stopped talking, (NASB) but Dad didn’t seem to mind.

I will set nothing wicked before my eyes: (NKJV) Sometimes Mom would get up quietly while the I will set before my eyes no vile thing: (NIV) rest of us were shushing each other to listen to what I will set no base thing before mine eyes: (ASV) he had to say, and she would go to her room and read I will not set before my eyes anything that is her books. (I wonder now if she ever prayed for the worthless. (ESV) stranger to leave.)

If readers have questions or simply wish to know Dad ruled our household with certain moral con- more about the Church of Christ, we would like to invictions, but the stranger never felt obligated to honor vite them to call 715-866-7157 or stop by the church them. Profanity, for example, was not allowed in our building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible home...not from us, our friends, or any visitors. Our class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 longtime visitor, however, got away with four-letter a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Ofwords that burned my ears and made my dad squirm fice hours are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. and my mother blush. noon.

The Strangers

PEN

Puppet ministry coming to Bethany Lutheran, Siren on April 27 SIREN – On Sunday, April 27, at both morning worship services, Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren will be featuring the Christian Puppet Revival team, a youth-orientated, outreach ministry from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wyoming, Minn. They will be performing, “Jonah’s Tubular Adventure,” featuring Jonah, a whale (no kidding!), and others who join Jonah on his fantastic journey.

Started in 1997, the current directors are Neal Albee and Frank Edwards co-directing, and Marie Hudon as performance director. Each year, the team averages around 25 members, ranging in age from 10 to adult.

They travel to numerous places in the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin, and in past years have won in national competition.

Following their mission, “We Lift Our Hands unto the Lord,” CPR brings the good news of Jesus Christ to life through the delightful combination of music, script and creative puppetry. Presentations are enhanced through the use of special effects including strobe lights, black lights, and elaborate props creating thought-provoking imagery for both adults and children.

The community is invited to attend this very special

presentation on Sunday, April 27, at either 8 or 10:30 a.m. and stay for fellowship to meet the puppeteers.

For questions, call the Bethany church office at 715349-5280. - submitted

News from the Pews at Pilgrim Lutheran At the March Men’s Ministry of Siren Covenant Church, Wayne Anderson, columnist, was invited to share his experience of being an embedded journalist in Iraq last year. A good number of people listened to him talk about this experience as well as how important it is that we follow our dreams and step out in faith one day at a time, as Abraham did. For we are assured if it is God’s will it will be done.

All who attended agreed that it was a very enjoyable evening. The Men’s Ministry meets every last Thursday of the month. If you would be interested in attending one of their meetings, please call the church at 349-5601 for more information. – Photos submitted

Cousins were baptized during the 9 a.m. worship services this past Sunday. Shown in the picture from left to right are Randy and Anna Antonich with their daughter Hattie Marie. Norah and John Anderson holding their son Carson John. Hattie's sponsors were Leah and Brad Bulver and Carson's sponsors were Katie and Kraig Kahl. The congregation welcomed these babies into God's family through the sacrament of Holy Baptism.

The choir sang their anthem entitled "Let the Children Come."

Everyone is invited to join Pilgrim for Sunday morning worship services at 9 a.m. and Sunday school at 10:15 a.m. For more information call the church office at 327-8012 or go to their Web site www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org which is undergoing some construction but is progressing nicely.

– Photo submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Q: What advice would you give parents who recognize a tendency within themselves to abuse their kids? Maybe they're afraid they'll get carried away when spanking a disobedient child. Do you think they should avoid corporal punishment as a form of discipline?

DR. DOBSON: That's exactly what I think. Anyone who has ever abused a child – or has ever felt themselves losing control during a spanking – should not expose the child to that tragedy. Anyone who has a violent temper that at times becomes unmanageable should not use that approach. Anyone who secretly "enjoys" the administration of corporal punishment should not be the one to implement it. And, grandparents probably should not spank their grandkids unless the parents have given them permission to do so.

••• Q: Before our baby was born last month, our 3year-old daughter, April, was thrilled about having a new brother or sister. Now, however, she shows signs of jealousy, sucking her thumb sullenly when I nurse the baby and getting very loud and silly when friends drop by. Please suggest some ways I can ease her through this period of adjustment.

DR. DOBSON: Your daughter is revealing a "textbook" reaction to the invasion that has occurred in her private kingdom. It is typical for such a preschooler to throw temper tantrums, wet the bed, suck her thumb, mess her pants, hold tightly to Mama, talk "baby talk," etc. Since the baby gets all the attention by being helpless, the older child will often try to "out baby the baby" – behaving in immature ways from an earlier stage of development. That pattern seems to be occur-

ring with your little girl. Here's what I would suggest.

1. Bring her feelings out in the open and help her verbalize them.

When she is acting silly in front of adults, take her in your arms and say, "What's the matter, April? Do you need some attention today?" Gradually, a child can be taught to use sim- Dr. James ilar words when she feels excluded Dobson or rejected. "I need some attention, Dad. Will you play with me?" By verbalizing her feelings, you also help her understand herself better.

2. Don't let infantile behavior succeed. If she cries when the baby sitter arrives, leave her anyway. A temper tantrum can be greeted by firmness.

However, reveal little anger and displeasure, remembering that the entire episode is motivated by a threat to your love.

3. Meet her needs in ways that grant status to her for being older. Take her to the park, making it clear that the baby is too little to go; talk "up" to her about the things she can do that the baby can't; she can use the bathroom instead of her pants, for example. Let her help take care of the baby so she will feel she is part of the family process.

Beyond these corrective steps, give your daughter some time to adjust to her new situation. Even though it stresses her somewhat today, she should profit from the realization that she does not sit at the center of the universe.

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

••• Q: We have a 7-year-old son who has been doing some pretty awful things to dogs and cats in the neighborhood. We've tried to stop him but not successfully. I wonder if there's anything to be more concerned about here.

DR. DOBSON: Cruelty to animals can be a symptom of serious emotional problems in a child, and those who do such things repeatedly are not typically just going through a phase. It should definitely be seen as a warning sign that must be checked out. I don't want to alarm you or overstate the case, but early cruelty is correlated with violent behavior as an adult. I would suggest that you take your son to a psychologist or psychiatrist for evaluation, and by all means, never tolerate any kind of unkindness to animals.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995 (www.family.org). Questions and answers are excerpted from "Solid Answers" and "Bringing Up Boys, both published by Tyndale House.

COPYRIGHT 2008 JAMES DOBSON INC., DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL PRESS SYNDICATE, 4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; 816-932 6600.

Brought to you by:

Luck and St. Peter’s Lutheran Churches Luck

Pastor Mark Peacock retires ST. CROIX FALLS – Mark Peacock, pastor of the United Methodist Churches of St. Croix Falls and Wolf Creek, will retire June 30, after serving 11 years. His tenure is the longest served by a pastor since the founding of those churches in the late 1800s.

Prior to his appointment in St. Croix Falls, Peacock

served Birchwood and Exeland United Methodist Churches. His tenure there also was the longest in the history of those two congregations. From 1994 – 1998 Peacock pastured Interfaith Christian Center in White Bear Lake, Minn.

A resident of Polk County, Peacock has been involved

in county and local activities ranging from health care advocacy to welfare-to-work reform to economic development, food shelf work, tourism and parenting. He served Unity School District nine years as its director of Community Education. His wife, Marina, is a clinical social worker with offices in Osceola. – submitted

Ladies Morning Retreat set FREDERIC -Join the ladies of the Frederic Evangelical Free Church on Friday, April 18, for the Ladies Morning Retreat at The Frederic Evangelical Free Church. Marilyn Eastep will be sharing truths from the Bible about

what it means to be God’s Image-Bearers.

Join them for refreshments at 9:15 a.m. Child care is provided from birth through second grade. The Frederic Evangelical Free Church is located at 505 Old CTH

W in Frederic. Please call 327-8767 with any questions.

- submitted

APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

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APRIL 9, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Shylie King has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in third grade and the daughter of Shawn and Beth King. Shylie enjoys reading and social studies.

Her hobbies include riding horse, reading and belonging to the Indian Creek 4-H.

McKenna Cook has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Linda and Kerry Cook.

McKenna is a conscientious student that truly adds to class. She is hard working and honest.

McKenna is involved in bell choir, band, volleyball, basketball and track. She enjoys sports and music. McKenna plans on attending college in the future.

Haris Ghazl has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Mohammad Khalid Husain and Shagufta Yasmeen. Haris is an outstanding young man with a great attitude. He is a library aide, in AFS and yearbook. Haris enjoys reading magazines and fantasy novels and playing video games. His future plans include going to a medical college and becoming a surgeon.

Janessa Bonneville has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Pat and Tara Freese.

Janessa is always going the extra mile to help everyone in the classroom. She is a very responsible and dependable student. Janessa is kind to everyone. She enjoys math, recess and art. Janessa likes playing with her dogs and helping on her grandparents’ farm.

Cole Engstrand has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Todd and Leah Engstrand. Cole works hard in academics and athletics. He sets a positive example for others, respects others and uses time wisely. Cole is involved in football, wrestling, track and baseball. He enjoys hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. The greatest influence in his life is his dad.

Tyler Otlo has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Gary and Judy Otlo. Tyler is in the CIA program. He is a conscientious student who always does his best and a little extra. Tyler is involved in the FCCLA. He enjoys reading, fishing and listening to music. Tyler plans to attend Minneapolis Business College for a career in graphic design. The person he admires most is his dad.

Amber Mevissen has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Gene and Nancy Mevissen.

Art class is her favorite because she likes to draw. Amber also enjoys phy ed because she gets to run around and do fun things. She collects pretty rocks and is quite good at playing on the monkey bars. Amber likes to ride horse at her grandparents and go on hikes.

Mackenzie Erickson has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. She has shown much improvement academically and socially in making positive choices in these past couple of months.

Carlee Libbenga has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Steve and Christie Libbenga. Carlee is an all-around great kid. She works hard, is smart, fun, humorous and someone students and teachers like having around. Carlee is involved in track and volleyball. Her favorite subject is social studies. She enjoys snowboarding and horseback riding.

Ashley Kolve has been chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore. Ashley is doing a great job in school. She enjoys reading, spending time with her family and friends, bowling and swimming.

When she graduates, she plans on continuing her education to become a registered nurse.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Triston Ortez has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade. Triston is a kind, caring classmate who always has a smile on his face. Triston is eager to help anyone. He has really improved as a reader through the school year.

Willy Gonzalez has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of David and Wilma Volkmann.

Willy is a hard worker in class, despite the difficulties of learning English. He is friendly with a disposition that is positive and infectious. Willy works part time for his stepfather and is involved in soccer. His hobbies are cooking and soccer. His future plans are to learn more English and to be a good person.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Andrew Lemieux has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Terry and Beth Lemieux. Andrew loves to draw beautiful, bold illustrations that go with the stories he writes.

He has great story ideas and is working hard to write them. Andrew is happy and enjoys the morning joke or riddle. He likes to work with numbers and is learning to be a great reader. Andrew is a friend to all his classmates.

Cathie LaMere has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Anthony and Suzette LaMere. Cathie is a conscientious and positive student who works well with others. Cathie is active in many aspects of student life such as volleyball, basketball, choir and student council. Her favorite classes are math and science. Cathie enjoys drawing and playing with her animals.

Courtney Daniels has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Dayton and Nancy Daniels. Courtney excels in everything she does, and is involved in numerous activities, sports and events. Currently she is in the school production of “The Music Man.” She is involved in basketball, NHS and was a football manager. She will compete in solo and ensemble for band and choir, in group and individual competition.

With everything she has done, Courtney is going to Augsburg College to major in music therapy.

Congratulations students on a job well done!

Emily Martinez has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in first grade and the daughter of Patrick and Tracy Martinez. Emily has jumped on the bandwagon and taken off with her reading and writing skills. She works hard and encourages others to do their best.

Maddie Snow has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Kari Roppe. Maddie has a positive attitude, a great sense of humor and is respectful of her classmates and teachers. She is very talented in drawing, music and writing. Maddie is involved in band, piano, Girl Scouts and the school play.

Bethany Nutt has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a freshman and the daughter of Wayne and Cheryl Nutt. Bethany has great grades and attendance. She is a responsible student who is always on task. Bethany is involved in band, choir, cheerleading and SIGN.She enjoys reading, writing, shopping, cross-country skiing and spending time with her family. Her future plans include college.

UNITY

Jessica Grams has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in third grade and the daughter of Jon and Deborah Grams. Jessica is a very conscientious student.

She works hard and always makes sure her schoolwork is completed. In addition, she is willing to assist those who need some extra help. Jessica always has a smile on her face and has an upbeat attitude.

Therese Anderson has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Dawn Swanson. Therese is a great student and a joy to have in class. She is very interested in her education and asks good questions. Therese loves to participate in class and has a good sense of humor.

Amber Springer has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Alan and Melody Springer of Milltown. Amber has a positive work ethic, attitude and outgoing personality. She enjoys spending time with friends and family and plans on attending Rochester Community and Technical College for a veterinary technician degree.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- APRIL 9, 2008

APRIL

THURSDAY/10 Amery

• Men’s pool, 9:30 a.m., at the senior center.

• NARFE Chapter 1581 meets at The Tac, noon, 715-268-8618.

Coming events

Frederic

St. Croix Falls

Clam Falls

• Open House at the St. Croix River Visitor Center, 6:30 p.m., 715-483-2274.

• Coffee hour at the Lutheran Church, 9 a.m.

Frederic

Siren

• Pray and Walk, gather at Zion Lutheran Church, 7:30 a.m., 715-472-2062.

• National County Government Day open house at the Burnett County Government Center 1-4 p.m. Legislators will be speaking from 23 p.m. For more infomation contact the UW-Extension office, 715-349-2151.

Luck • Polk-Burnett Retired Educators Association to host seminar for participants of the Wisconsin Retirement System at the school, 7-8:30 p.m., 715-268-6578, 715-472-2512.

FRI.-SUN./11-13 Frederic

• “Little Women” at the elementary school. Fri. & Sat. 7 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.

Milltown • Rep. Hraychuck listening session at the village hall, 10-11 a.m., 888-529-0028,

St. Croix Falls

Amery

Frederic • Pokeno, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

Grantsburg • Northwest Regional Writers meeting at the Community Room of Big Gust Apts., 1 p.m. Assignment: write a menu for a meal with an “over the rainbow” dessert. Use descriptive words.

SATURDAY/12 Amery

• Wisconsin Wildlife Federation Membership Banquet at The Tac, doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., 715-294-3854.

• “Hootenanny!” at the Northern Lakes Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., 715-258-6811.

This bear was spotted and photographed by Rachel McNally of Grantsburg last Thursday evening about 6:45 p.m. The McNally family lives right on Hwy. 70 near the village’s south water tower. – Special photo

Grantsburg

Turtle Lake

• “Life Extraordinaire,” a women’s wellness retreat at Faith Lutheran Church, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 715-463-2445, 715-689-2374.

• Cub Scout Pinewood Derby at the community center, noon, 715-463-2442.

• 2008 Pinko Jam benefiting area special education children downtown, 2 p.m.-?

• Fourth-Annual Library Spring Gala Fundraiser at the Crex Convention Center, social 6 p.m., dinner 7 p.m., 715-463-2495, 715463-2939.

• American Legion smelt fry at the Legion, 48:30 p.m., 715-986-4631.

Luck • St. Peter’s Lutheran Church spring sale, at the church, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• EMT smelt fry at the fire hall, 3:30-7 p.m., 715-472-8973 or 715-472-2175.

Balsam Lake

Milltown

• William Kent Krueger, author of the Cork O’Connor mysteries will be at the Balsam Lake Library at 11 a.m.

• Earth Arts monthly meeting, 6 p.m. For more info www.earthartswi.org or 715-4882957.

Clear Lake

• Good Samaritan Society Auxiliary Bake Sale at the home, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Between Fences Traveling Smithsonian Exhibition at the community center. Exhibition runs through May 24. Barn dance w/area folk band Duck for the Oyster, 7 p.m. Call Cricket at 715-263-2802 for info or fencesatclearlake.com.

Frederic • Food, fellowship, games at the senior center, noon.

Amery

Balsam Lake

Luck

• Bingo, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

TUESDAY/15

• Rep. Hraychuck listening session at the village hall, 2-3 p.m., 888-529-0028.

• Polk County Master Gardeners’ meeting at the Polk County Courthouse, 6:45 p.m., 715268-6130, 715-268-8786.

• FFA Hotdish dinner & silent auction at the high school, 4:30-7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY/11

Webster • Rep. Hraychuck listening session at the senior center, 10-11 a.m., 888-529-0028.

• Pinochle, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

• Sjoland Lodge 5-635, Sons of Norway meet at First Lutheran Church, 7 p.m. Lois and Larry Kresl will show pictures and tell about their adventures in Africa last summer.

• 500 card night, 6:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

• “Alice in Wonderland” at the elementary school. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m., 715-483-2507, ext. 232.

Siren • Rep. Hraychuck listening session at the village hall, noon-1 p.m., 888-529-0028.

St. Croix Falls Siren

• Mixed Sampler Quilt Guild meets at the senior center, 9 a.m. Call Betty at 715-472-4117 with any questions.

Spooner

SUNDAY/13 Amery

• Release the Magic Within workshop at the senior center, 6-7:30 p.m., preregister by April 9 by calling Kari at 715-268-6605. Call 715-6410168 for more info.

Centuria • Spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Unity Area Soccer Club at Fristad, 4-6 p.m.

Indian Creek • Sunday Dance with Mr. Morgan at American Legion Hall, 1-4 p.m. Old-time dances every 2nd Sunday of the month April through Sept.

For info call 715-653-2671 or 715-566-1078.

Luck • Dance for seniors at the West Denmark Parish Hall, 6-9 p.m. Contact Jay Stackhouse at 715-327-8052.

MONDAY/14 Dresser

• Free clothing event at Peace Lutheran Church, 2-6 p.m., 715-755-2515.

Frederic • Spades at the senior center, 1:30 p.m.

• 2008 Spring Fling Health & Healing Expo at Northwest Sports Complex, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 715-635-5228 or BodyLabUSA.com.

Siren • Lioness Club monthly meeting at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

• Burnett County Democratic Party meeting at the Burnett County Government Center in Room 165, 7 p.m., 715-635-3428.

WEDNESDAY/16 Amery

• Knitting & crocheting, 9-11 a.m., at the senior center.

Balsam Lake • Science Museum of Minnesota Prehistoric Preschool Day, 10 a.m.-noon, 715-485-3413.

• 15th-annual National Bereavement Teleconference in the conference room. Teleconference 12:30-3 p.m., discussion 3-3:30 p.m., 715-485-8600.

Frederic • Pokeno, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

St. Croix Falls • Tip Toe Through the Theatre at the Festival Theatre, ages 5-8, 9:30-10:15; ages 8 & up, 10:45-noon., 888-887-6002 or groups@festivaltheatre.org.

Spooner • Beginners workshop in computerizing farmers’ financial records at the UW-Extension office, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., 715-635-3506 or 800528-1914.

THURSDAY/17 Amery

• Wii member game day, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

Wild Woods and Water on stage at Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – The Blue Canvas Orchestra, led by Warren Nelson, will be in a concert April 19 and 20 at Festival Theatre in St. Croix Falls. Their show is called “Wild Woods and Waters – A Celebration of the St. Croix River.”

The program includes a wide range of original bluegrass and folk music and a large-screen slide show as the backdrop for nine musicians. Matinees at 2 p.m.

Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday include specially priced youth tickets at $15. The Saturday evening show starts at 7:30 p.m. and serves as the signature regional event to kick off the 40th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Concertgoers should plan to visit the St. Croix Riverway’s new National Park Service Headquarters at 401 North Hamilton, just three blocks northwest of Festival Theatre in downtown St. Croix Falls.

“This event comes to us through a unique partnership with the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and the St. Croix Valley Community Foundation,” said Danette Olsen, director of Festival Theatre. “In 1968 Gaylord Nelson was

successful in putting forward federal legislation that will forever protect the upper St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers.

This 40th-anniversary year will have a formal sendoff in the city known as the gateway to the upper St. Croix and in our historic Vaudeville theatre, now on the National Register of Historic Places.”

The hydroelectric dam (centennial celebration in 2007) in St. Croix Falls/Taylors Falls serves as the line of demarcation between the upper and lower St. Croix. The lower St. Croix was protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 1972 and 1976.

Tickets are on sale now at Festival Theatre and are $25 in advance or $30 at the door (if any seats remain at show time).

Saturday’s concerts are at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday concert begins at 1 p.m.

Discount rates for youth ages 5-18 are available for the matinees only and are $15. Season ticket holders may use their Regular Flex Passes for this event. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls, at 210 North Washington Street. For more information, to order

Members of the Blue Canvas Orchestra perform stories and songs in celebration of the St. Croix River. – Photo submitted tickets or join the Festival Theatre mailing list, call 715-483-3387 or 888-8876002. You may also send an e-mail via

the Web site at www.festivaltheatre.org.

- submitted