Leader|aug 20|2008

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

• Ag Society Fair @ Grantsburg • Garden Tea @ The Forts, Danbury • Wild Rice Powwow @ Danbury • Furry Family Reunion @ Siren • TRAILS dancers at Balsam Lake See Coming events and stories

Leader INTER-COUNTY

W E E K E N D W AT CH :

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

$1

“We need to find $3 million” Polk County looks for cuts, revenue to balance budget

“The wolf is at the door”

PAGES 10

A leg up

Cutting services pondered as Burnett County department heads struggle to stay within levy cap PAGE 3

Bank robber apologetic

Juvenile male arrested after entering Bremer Bank in Danbury with a sawed off shotgun and walking away with money; gas drive off leads to arrest of accomplice PAGE 2

ATV accident claims life of 19-year-old Truck and ATV meet on blind corner near Webb Lake PAGE 2

Finances top Webster Schools agenda PAGE 5

SPOR TS Fift h place in finals f or Kal moe an d T omek

See SPORTS front page

Eleven-year-old Jasper Herman, Taylors Falls, Minn., gets a turkey leg to snack on during a break in the music at the Lamar Music Festival last weekend, Aug. 15-17. The annual music festival’s Friday night lineup featured Latin dance music by the Twin Cities band, Salsa Brosa.

More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer

Luck names administrator VILLAGE OF LUCK - The Luck Village Board of Trustees has named Kristina Handt, 29, St. Paul, Minn., as the village administrator. She assumes her new position Monday, Sept. 15. She currently is legislative assistant to state Sen. Gary Kubly.

“I think we are indeed fortunate to have found such a qualified person as Ms. Handt to fulfill the responsibilities of village administrator. I feel she will be a great asset to our community” said Rich Callister, village president.

The board of trustees has taken Kristina almost a year to review the responsibilities and duties of the new village position. After reviewing and interviewing a

Handt

number of applicants, Handt was chosen after her second interview and accepted a contract to work in Luck.

A native of Coon Rapids, Minn., where she attended school, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, she gained work experience working as district assistant for Rep. James Oberstar, and as a personnel/operations area supervisor for the Kohl’s Department stores. She gained a post-baccalaureate certificate at the Minnesota Paralegal Institute at Minnetonka, Minn., and master’s

See Luck administrator, page 2

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

A cooperative-owned newspaper, the Inter-County Leader is published every Wednesday by the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837. Second Class postage paid at Frederic, WI 54837.

MANAGER Doug Panek dougpanek@centurytel.net EDITOR Gary B. King, Editor gbking@centurytel.net STAFF Nancy Jappe njappe@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Brenda Sommerfeld brendals@centurytel.net Sherill Summer the-leader@centurytel.net Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Carl Heidel cheidel389@centurytel.net Priscilla Bauer the-leader@centurytel.net EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net

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OFFICES Frederic

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)

Siren

24154 State Road 35, Siren, WI 54872 (M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

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

19-year-old loses life in ATV-truck collision

BURNETT COUNTY - A 19-year-old Minnesota man died Saturday morning when the ATV he was driving crashed head-on into a truck traveling in the opposite direction.

Robert Clifford Humphrey of Mahtomedi died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash before he could be airlifted to a Twin Cities hospital.

According to the County Burnett S h e r i f f ’ s Department, the accident occurred Robert Humphrey at approximately 10 a.m. on a blind curve on Balsam Lake Fire Lane just east of Webb Lake.

Authorities stated Humphrey was northbound on Balsam Fire Lane, negoti-

ating a curve when he struck a southbound Chevy truck driven by Jan Luke, 72, Danbury. It was reported that Luke was bear hunting at the time of the accident.

According to Humphrey’s uncle, David Kratchmer of Grantsburg, Humphrey had just finished breakfast and was headed out for a ride with a party of riders, including his parents, Bob and Kathy Humphrey. They were all riding separate ATVs. Robert’s parents were behind their son when the accident occurred and did not see the accident.

Kathy Humphrey, a registered nurse, rendered first aid to her son. Paramedics arrived minutes later but were unable the save Humphry’s life. He was pronounced dead at the medical flight landing area in Danbury from head and chest wounds.

Humphrey was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident and authorities found no evidence of drugs or alcohol.

The road where the accident occurred allows ATV traffic.

Humphrey was the grandson of Dale and Norma Kratchmer of Grantsburg and nephew of David and Polly Kratchmer, also of Grantsburg.

“Robbie was just a super good kid,” Polly Kratchmer said of her nephew.

“He spent a lot of time in Grantsburg visiting with us and with his grandparents.

He loved just sitting around visiting with us older folks and hearing Dave tell stories.”

Dave Kratchmer added that his nephew had enthusiasm for all sports.

“He loved fishing. He was a very experienced four-wheeler driver. His dad had trained him well in the sport.” – Priscilla Bauer and Sherill Summer with information from Burnett County Sheriff’s Department

Try our E-edition demo. Online now @ www.the-leader.net Juvenile bank robber apologetic DANBURY - A male juvenile with a sawed-off shotgun entered Bremer Bank at Danbury Saturday morning, and demanded money - but was apologetic at the same time, according to authorities.

The suspect, who was arrested about 50 minutes later walking west out of Danbury, was wearing a hooded sweatshirt and sunglasses.

He left the bank with an undisclosed amount of money. Authorities recovered the money and the shotgun.

An accomplice was arrested by the Minnetonka Police Department and is being held in the Hennepin County Jail in Minnesota. Anthony Joseph Diloreto, 18, Minnetonka, Minn., was to be the driver of a getaway vehicle.

The investigation led to the second suspect due to a gas drive-off approximately 25 minutes prior to the robbery.

The vehicle matched a description provided by the bank robber. - with information from Burnett County Sheriff’s Department

Administrator/from page 1 degree of Advocacy and Political Leadership from the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

She has a sister, Heather Murray, and brother, Justin, and a stepbrother, Kevin Petron. Her father, Jim, and her stepmother, Karen, live in rural Webster. She plans to move to Luck as soon as she can.

“I am excited to be the first administrator for the village of Luck, though the position will require hard work, it will provide many challenges and gratification. I enjoyed my introduction to Luck and look forward to getting to know people and the community better, “she said, on accepting the position. - from the Village of Luck

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St. Croix Falls

Box 338, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 (M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Motorists traveling on Hwy. 35 were surprised to find the highway and the driveway to the Four Winds Market temporarily flooded due to a sudden downpour which came through Siren last week. – Photo by Priscilla Bauer

Briefly BURNETT COUNTY – Gov. Jim Doyle has approved a $207,895 project to build a fence at the Burnett County Airport north of Siren. The governor’s action releases $5,197 in state funds for the project.

Burnett County is contributing $5,198 and the Federal Aviation Administration is providing $197,500. According to Gayle Stearn, airport development engineer with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the fence is needed to separate the airport from the Gandy Dancer Trail. It will enhance safety by preventing potential for runway incursions between aircraft and trail users. The project is scheduled to begin in August 2008 and should be completed by November 2008.

Along with the crosswind runway, facilities at the Burnett County Airport include the current 3,900-foot primary runway.

There are some 30 aircraft based at the airport and about 15,000 aircraft operations – take-offs and landings – each year. – from the office of Gov. Doyle ••• BALSAM LAKE - The Polk County Alzheimer’s Support Group will be meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 26, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Polk County Government Center in Balsam Lake. The meetings are free and open to the public. For more information, please call Diane at 485-8413. - submitted ••• SIREN – The public safety committee of the Siren Village Board briefly discussed the stop sign that has been placed at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and South Shore Drive. One of the residents along South Shore Drive, Rick Engstrom, had asked the board to take down the stop sign, commenting on lack of traffic. The committee members upheld their decision to put up the stop sign, saying that two board committees had already discussed the need for the sign, that need being safety. - Nancy Jappe ••• BURNETT COUNTY - There will be an antique car tour in Burnett County the weekend of Sept. 12-14. There will be approximately 25-35 cars that weekend in the area, with at least 70 percent of them coming from the Twin Cities. If you have any questions about this tour, please contact Steve or Rochelle Bottineau at bottineau@sirentel.net or 715-349-8886. - submitted •••

Minnesota man receives OWI

Alan R. Pagel, 22, Forest Lake, Minn., was westbound on Grell Road, attempting a right-hand turn onto Borg Road when he lost control and left the roadway. The vehicle was estimated to be traveling at about 45 mph when the right-hand turn was attempted. Alcohol played a role in the accident, and the driver was issued four citations, including OWI. An occupant was in the vehicle at the time of the accident and suffered what was described as a nonincapacitating injury. – Photo submitted

Burnett County struggles with preliminary budget

by Sherill Summer BURNETT COUNTY - “The wolf is at the door,” said Burnett County Chairman Board Chairman Philip Lindeman.

That’s how he described this year’s budget process as county department heads submit their preliminary budgets and supervisors try to figure out how to stay within the 2-percent levy freeze.

Already Lindeman is saying that this will be the toughest budget Burnett County has ever had to do – so far.

The department heads were asked to submit a preliminary budget that caps operating costs and capital improvements to a one-percent increase over last year. Most of these preliminary figures have been reviewed and approved by their respective oversight committees.

Some departments have had little problems sticking to a 1-percent increase, even coming in with a lower budget at times. For other departments, a 1-percent increase is not nearly enough.

Highway Commissioner Bob Morehouse, for example, has already dealt with rising fuel and asphalt costs that have increased dramatically within the last three years, due to rising oil prices. Now the price of road salt is expected to at least double, he said.

As a result, his winter maintenance budget has increased from $375,000 to $450,000, and Morehouse warns that if the winter is harsh, that amount might not be enough.

To adjust to rising costs, Morehouse has eliminated college-aged help for next summer, slashed equipment purchases to a bare minimum and reduced the amount of new blacktop next year to 1-3/4 mile. He said that the only reason that the project is in the budget is because there are federal aids tied to it.

“If things stay the way they are, we may have to change the level of service,” Morehouse concluded. “There is less and less wiggle room.”

Other department heads have asked for new positions on top of their preliminary budget.

For example, forest and park administrator Jake Nichols is one department head asking for a new position. This is not the first year that Nichols has requested this position, but Nichols explained that with the increased park service duties, there is not enough time to set up timber sales. Falling behind on the timber sales can be devastating for the county since timber sales can generate around $1 million into the general fund.

Other department heads had fewer problems staying within the 1-percent increase in operating costs and capital improvements, but even so the budget process is far from done.

One problem is that the salaries and benefits of county employees have not been finalized yet, and this amount has yet to be added to the department’s budgets. A mediated arbitration with the AFSCME unions that represent 115 employees has been set for Thursday, Sept. 11, at

Two Polk County Board members are third generation supervisors Fathers and grandfathers served together

Jerry Estreen, housing director with the Indianhead Community Action Agency, gave general information about affordable housing at a supervisor’s policy and planning meeting held at the Burnett County Government Center on Thursday, Aug. 14. ICCA would like to place affordable housing units somewhere in Burnett County. – Photo by Sherill Summer which time the county and union try to work out differences in wages and benefits.

The county administration is also working on a 2-percent increase for the 50 nonunion county employees and elected officials. This pay raise goes before the county supervisors in their regular August meeting, to be held this Thursday, Aug. 21.

Even though the wages and benefits have not been finalized, Burnett County financial manager Lynn Miller has an idea of how much wage and benefits will cost, and she stunned the administration committee with her prediction that the increase in wages and benefits is expected to be about $400,000 over last year, or more than $250,000 over the estimated levy increase with a 2percent freeze.

Miller explained that she hasn’t received the worksheets from the state yet that will pinpoint the levy increase, but simple calculations estimate an increase of $157,000.

County Administrator Candace Fitzgerald described the process after the preliminary budgets have been approved. Each department head will meet with Fitzgerald again.

After which, the budgets will be adjusted before further approval by the county board.

Despite the difficulties ahead keeping within the budget limits, the administration committee voted to consider both new employees and reclassifications within the departments.

Committee member Gerry Pardun concluded that they should always be looking at new positions. In many cases they say that they can’t say yes to a position, but we should look nonetheless.

That said, Lindeman warned that the county is getting to the point where it will not be able to have new positions unless it lets some old positions go.

by Gregg Westigard POLK COUNTY – Bob Dueholm and Marvin Caspersen are carrying on a family tradition as they serve together on the Polk County Board. Their fathers and grandfathers also served together on the county in years past.

The service started with grandfathers Emil Caspersen and Marius Dueholm whose terms on the Polk County Board overlapped from 1922 to 1925. In those days the town chairmen were also county board members. Emil Caspersen was Eureka town chair from 1915 to 1925. Marius Dueholm was Bone Lake chair from 1922 to 1931.

A generation later, their sons James Caspersen and Harvey Dueholm served together from 1945 to 1957 with a two-year break from 1949 to 1951. James Caspersen was Eureka chair for three periods, 1945 to 1949, 1951 to 1957 and 1961 to 1971. Harvey Dueholm was Bone Lake chair from 1945 to 1959 and again from 1979 to 1981.

Supervisors are now elected by districts. Bob Dueholm was elected to the board last April, joining Marvin Caspersen who was starting his third term, to continue this stretch of public service.

The three Dueholms also have another distinction. Each of them represented the area in the state legislature. Marius Dueholm served in the Assembly as a Progressive from 1931 to 1935. Harvey Dueholm held the Assembly seat as a Democrat from 1959 to 1977. And Bob Dueholm, also a Democrat, served in the Assembly from 1995 to 1999.

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Teen dies in pickup rollover

BARRON COUNTY – A 16-yearold from Rice Lake died Monday morning, Aug. 18, the result of a onevehicle rollover near the intersection of 14th Street and 17th Avenue in the town of Barron.

Marcus A. Miller was driving a Toyota pickup north on 14th Street when it went off the road and rolled several times, according to a news release from the Barron County

Sheriff’s Department.

Miller was airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., but died a short time later.

Units from the Barron County Sheriff’s Department, Barron Fire Department, Luther Midelfort Northland Ambulance and Life Link III responded. – with information from Barron County Sheriff’s Department

Travelers on highway 87 have plenty of warning that Cushing is ahead. Photo by Gregg Westigard

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Obey makes rounds in Polk/Burnett counties

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC – Although appropriations and budget sessions are the busiest times for Congressman Dave Obey, he’s still busy on his days off.

With congress being out of session for a month, Obey spent Tuesday, Aug. 19, in Burnett and Polk counties. After spending the morning in Grantsburg and meeting with constituents, Obey traveled to the community library in Frederic, where he met with several people as well.

“It gives me a chance to move around the district during the week, normally I only do it on the weekends,” Obey said.

One of the main topics of discussion throughout the area was the economy.

He feels that the economy is the No. 1 problem that faces our nation today. He said that if we lack a strong economy at home, we cannot have a strong economy abroad. Other topics of discussion included health care.

“Every time I come over to this part of the district, the No. 1 issue people raise with me is health care,” he said.

Obey was in the company that included Rep. Ann Hraychuck and Alison Page, who is currently running for the state Senate. Obey said that Hraychuck has been a wonderful addition to the Assembly, and believes that Page really understands the need for a change in the health care area.

Obey, who is also chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, discussed a little bit about a recent trip he took to Iraq, where he met with top U.S. commander, Gen. David Patraeus.

While there, he spent time looking at the current situation in Iraq.

“I didn’t go because I wanted to enter another debate on Iraq,” Obey said, and added that he thinks that the war in Iraq is a “terrible mistake.”

Congressman Dave Obey spoke to the public at the Frederic Public Library on Tuesday, Aug. 19. Alison Page, candidate for state Senate, (far left) and state Rep. Ann Hraychuck, accompanied him. Obey spoke of his traveling around this district to speak with people and share details of what the Congress has been accomplishing this year. – Photo

by Brenda Sommerfeld Obey was there because he had concerns about two main things, one of which is the new U.S. embassy going up in Iraq, which consists of 104 acres and 27 buildings. He says he is concerned with an embassy that big, and whether our presence in Iraq will be heavier than it should be if, and when Iraq returns to normal.

One of the other concerns Obey want-

Dave Obey donated a copy of his book “Raising Hell for Justice” to the Frederic Public Library. Accepting the book is librarian Chris Byerly. - Photo

by Marty Seeger

ed to address and witness firsthand in Iraq, other than the embassy, was the health situation of the troops.

“After the last Gulf War we had a lot of problems, and I’m convinced we’re going to have even more this time,” he said. One of those included the respiratory problems that troops could be facing. He says the air is very polluted, and breathing that air every day is going to

cause health problems including allergies.

After greeting several people who were visiting the library on Tuesday, Obey left a copy of his new book, “Raising Hell for Justice.” Obey spent the rest of his day traveling to as many places in the county that he could go, before going back to Superior Wednesday.

While meeting Dave Obey, Harli Kelton told Obey of her hopes to become the first woman president. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

Proctor is Chief of the Chiefs MADISON – Wisconsin’s Committee of Chief Judges unanimously elected Chief Judge Benjamin D. Proctor, Eau Claire County Circuit Court, as Chief of the Chiefs at its August meeting. In this capacity, Proctor will serve as chair of the group. He replaces Chief Judge Gerald P. Ptacek, Racine County Circuit Court, who continues to serve as a judge but completed his service on the committee.

“The committee of chief judges helps to ensure that the Wisconsin court sys-

tem functions effectively and efficiently,” Proctor said. “I am honored that my colleagues saw fit to elect me as their chair.”

Proctor has served on the bench in Eau Claire County for 20 years, and will continue to handle a caseload in that county. During his tenure on the bench in Eau Claire, Proctor has served in a number of leadership capacities. For the past seven years, he has been the county’s presiding judge. He is also founder and past chair of the Eau Claire County

Criminal Justice Collaborating Council, and founder of the AIM Treatment Court, where he serves as presiding judge.

In 2005, the Wisconsin Supreme Court appointed Proctor to serve as chief judge for the 10th Judicial District, which is comprised of the circuit courts in 13 northwestern Wisconsin counties including Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Chippewa, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Polk, Rusk, St. Croix, Sawyer and Washburn.

The Committee of Chief Judges is comprised of Wisconsin’s 10 chief judges. These judges are selected by the Supreme Court to handle administrative matters for the court system.

Working as a team with a deputy chief judge and a professional court administrator, they manage the flow of cases, supervise personnel, develop budgets, and meet monthly as a committee to work on issues of statewide importance.

– from 10th Judicial District

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

H E A D L I N E S

Finances top Webster Schools agenda

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER- Financial matters dominated the agenda at the meeting of the Webster School Board Monday evening, Aug. 18, but matters were not as grim as they might have been. Everything from lunch fees to instructional staff contracts was up for consideration.

District families will feel some of the effects of sharp increases in costs generally nationwide. Rising fuel and food prices have forced the board to raise school meal prices 10 cents across the board.

According to Superintendent Jim Erickson, the good news is that the price increase is less than it might have been.

The board had received recommendations for a greater increase, but chose a more conservative amount in order to provide what relief they could for families.

Even with the new price schedule, meals in the Webster Schools will cost anywhere from 24 to 30 cents less on average than in other regional schools.

Returning to an item held over from the July meeting, board members approved a group accident insurance policy for the schools students. In July the question had been raised as to whether the schools should continue to provide this insurance since provision is not mandatory, and premium costs generally outweigh payment benefits.

Board members had asked in July what neighboring schools were doing with student insurance.

Erickson reported at Monday’s meeting that these districts have renewed their group policies.

After extended discussion, the board approved an insurance policy with a $100 deductible at a cost of $7,551.75, just under $3,700 less than the original policy estimate.

The lower premium cost allows the board some room for discretionary action with regard to the deductible.

The cost savings will give the board funds that can be used to cover the deductible in situations that warrant additional assistance to families.

Another financial item on the agenda

New staff members in the Webster Schools were introduced to the board at Monday night’s meeting. Left to right, teachers Monica Gunderson, fourth grade, Laura Hakanson, kindergarten, Rachel Belisle, fifth grade, Diana Kalepp, second grade and elementary school secretary Crystal Houman. - Photo by Carl Heidel was the proposed instructional staff contract for 2008-2009. The staff had already ratified the proposal, and the board gave their approval Monday evening.

The new contract provides salary increases ranging from 5.496 percent for those on the lower end of the wage scale to 3 percent for those at the higher end.

Since the staff worked under terms of their previous contract for the 2007-2008 school year, these changes are retroactive to the beginning of the 2007-2008 contract year.

In other financial matters the board approved a $5 student fee for students in grades 5-12, a $5 student parking permit fee and a $100 driver education fee.

In other business the board: • approved WEA, Horace Mann and American Funds as vendors for staff retirement plans; • accepted the resignations of teachers Carrie Herman, second grade and Vanessa Gabrielson, second grade; • approved teacher contracts for Rachel Belisle, fifth grade and Diana Kalepp, second grade; • approved an administrative contract for Crystal Houman, elementary

Law enforcement roundtables held

school secretary; • and approved several coaching positions: Gene Golden, junior high football, A.J. Salquist, varsity football,

Deanna Kraus, cross country, Sarah Pickering, cross country, Laura Hakanson and Monica Gunderson, volleyball.

New family practitioner at BMC

GRANTSBURG - Vesna Radivojevic, M.D., began family practice care in the Burnett Medical Center clinic, Tuesday, Aug. 19.

She completed her residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kan., and her M.D. from the University of Nis, Serbia. Dr. Radivojevic, husband, Radoslov, and two sons are living in St. Croix Falls.

Burnett Medical Center CEO Gordy Lewis stated, “We take seriously our mission is to serve as the county’s heart of hometown health care. Having wellqualified and professionally trained physicians is a vital part of that mission, and we are pleased to share with our community that we have Dr. Radivojevic joining our health care team. As a residency-trained family practice physician, Dr. Radivojevic adds to our compliment of patient-focused providers, as we continue to grow our range of services, in response to our community needs.” – from BMC

Vesna Radivojevic, M.D., began family practice care in the Burnett Medical Center clinic, Aug. 19. - submitted

Indianhead Community Outreach Agency receives checks

Nearly 100 attendees in local government, law enforcement and courts from three counties, including St. Croix, Pierce and Burnett, have participated in law enforcement roundtables with Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen. Pictured are state Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, who has co-hosted with local representatives, and Van Hollen at the St. Croix County roundtable.

Issues addressed have included the success in the fight on meth, resource needs for local law enforcement and how to enhance public safety throughout Wisconsin. – Special photo

Mary Andrea (center), director of the Burnett County Food Pantry at Indianhead Community Outreach Agency, Webster, was happy to receive two Bremer Bank checks totaling $739 Friday, Aug. 15. Presenting the checks were April Highstrom (L), personal banker/supervisor at Bremer BankDanbury, and Rich Potvin, personal banker/consumer lender at Bremer BankSiren. The two banks cooperated on a food drive and hot-dog sale as part of Hunger Awareness Month. The money they raised was matched by the Otto Bremer Foundation. “We are certainly excited,” Andrea said, adding that the money will help stock the food pantry. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

L O C A L

H E A D L I N E S

Plan commission wrestles with amendment

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–After a public hearing at the St. Croix Falls plan commission meeting Monday, Aug. 18, the commission tabled considering amending part of the ordinance for square footage.

The proposed amendment is to allow, through a conditional use permit, homes to have less than 1,040 square feet of floor area in residential districts.

The hearing took place with one voiced negative comment, from Charlene Carlson, who said she felt the squarefootage was too small to allow.

“Cabins belong on lakes. I don’t believe cabins belong in the city of St. Croix Falls,” she said. “Also, 1,000 square feet is small.”

Iver Kammerud was present during the public hearing and stated he had already voiced his concerns to plan

commission members.

There were no other comments and the hearing was closed.

The commission then began to discuss the proposed amendment.

Commissioner Warren White started the discussion stating, “I have mixed feelings. We could compromise real estate values in town by allowing smaller homes. I don’t think we want to do that. Also, I think we can live with less, but living with something that small?

I’m stumbling around this issue because I don’t know.”

Commissioner Dan Meyers said he could not say he did not agree with those concerns and added that he could see it working as a conditional use because it would come before the commission and the council on a case-bycase basis.

“It can help if an area is landlocked to

be developed,” Meyers said.

White said he agreed with the statement by Carlson that the city does not want cabins, adding, “But I don’t think that’s what we’re looking at because there would be water and utilities.”

“Not necessarily,” commented Commissioner Arnie Carlson. “I have a concern about property values. I don’t think we need to invite summertime snowbirds to come here for places to build their cabins. They’ve already got their cabins or places.”

Mayor Darrell Anderson questioned whether the builder could even turn a profit on a home that size. White made a motion to table the issue, indicating he needs more time to think. The motion to table was carried, with all in favor except Carlson, who voted nay.

Commissioners Don Anderson and Don Puffer were absent.

In other business, Brad Dosch made a presentation to the commission for developing lots, 10 to 15, along Washington Street , just south of the Adams Street intersection. Dosch was granted a variance by the zoning board of appeals for his property and was discussing with the commission his plans to develop duplexes or town homes on the lots.

The lots are 65 feet. The access proposed is through the alley and the emergency-vehicle access through the property was also discussed. The commission noted they could not forward any approval for a project until a site plan is presented. The commission directed Dosch to move toward a site plan if he wishes to pursue the project and develop his property.

Man sentenced for threats to judge, witness MENOMONIE – On Tuesday, Aug. 19, Dunn County Circuit Court Judge Rod Smeltzer sentenced Green Bay Correctional Institution inmate Bobby Salas to two four-year terms of imprisonment for making threats to a judge and a witness in a prior case, state of Wisconsin v. Bobby D. Salas, Dunn County Case No. 06-CF-189.

Salas was convicted of one count of threat to cause bodily harm to a judge

and one count of Threat to Cause Bodily Harm to a Witness. On March 18, 2005, Salas wrote, in a letter to an attorney handling an unrelated case, that he would kill Pierce County Judge Robert Wing and former River Falls Police Investigator Dennis Krueziger for their involvement in a Pierce County case that resulted in an 18-year prison term.

Salas was convicted on his plea on Dec. 11, 2007.

Trio arrested for worthless checks POLK COUNTY - A mother-daughter team that has been passing worthless checks in the Osceola, St. Croix Falls and Amery area was arrested on Tuesday, Aug. 18. Checks were passed from multiple checking accounts that were closed, totaling several thousands of dollars.

Johanna M. Anderson, 41, Lindstrom, Minn., and Shannon M. Anderson, 24, New Richmond, are both charged with issuing worthless checks in excess of $2,500.

On the following day, Wednesday, Aug. 13, Sara N. Meeb, 24, Isanti, Minn., went to the Osceola Police Department claiming to be a part of the conspiracy with the Anderson’s. She was also charged with issuing worthless checks in an excess of $2,500.

Generally the checks were used to purchase cigarettes, fuel, lottery tickets and cash. The Polk County probable cause report stated that the females traveled

together, and if a store took a check for large quantities of lottery tickets, cigarettes and “over the amount” cash, they would go back to the store on multiple occasions. In some cases, several checks were written to a single store in excess of $1,000.

All admitted to writing checks on closed accounts with no intention paying for the items received with the worthless checks in interviews with police.

The exact dollar amounts for property lost wand worthless checks issued is still being calculated.

The total, when reached, will be added to the primary report.

Preliminary hearings are scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 21 for Johanna Anderson and Monday, Oct. 6 for both Shannon Anderson and Sara Neeb. – Sherill Summer with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department

The four-year sentences in this case include a term of initial confinement of one year, to be served consecutively to his current prison sentence, followed by three years of extended supervision, on count one; and a term of initial confinement of one year, and three years extended supervision, on count two.

The sentence in count two was also made consecutive to his current prison term, but concurrent to count one.

“Threats to judges and witnesses are

not only against individuals, they are attacks on the criminal justice system,” Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said.

“Attorneys at my office will continue to work with law enforcement and state prosecutors to ensure these attacks do not go unpunished.”

Assistant Attorney General Gary A. Freyberg, acting as special prosecutor for Dunn County, prosecuted the case for the state. – from the office of the state attorney general

Liquor license troubles are over

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – As of Monday, Aug. 25, John Madden, owner of Madden’s Steakhouse north of Siren, will take over the Northwoods Crossing complex at the south junction of Hwys. 35 and 70. One problem that faced Madden, that of securing a liquor license for the complex, has now been resolved.

At the Tuesday, Aug. 19, meeting of the village’s public safety committee, village administrator/engineer Randy Surbaugh said that all Madden needs to do is purchase MJKD License, LLC, Webster, the company that holds the license for the complex. The price to do that is $10, far different from the $10,000 current owner Keith Hobbie had to pay to get the license when the complex was built.

Up to now, Surbaugh was going on information the village had regarding reserve licensing, which this license falls under.

In an e-mail, Roger Johnson, head of the state Department of Revenue and Enforcement, confirmed that the purchase of MJKD is all that is required plus a background check on Madden. That check has been done by Police Chief Chris Sybers, with no problems noted.

Approval of Madden’s status as agent for the liquor license and licensing for a bartender and waitress will have to go before the village board at their Sept. 4 meeting. In the meantime, a 60-day provisional license at a cost of $15 each will apply.

Madden plans to open the complex again by Friday, Aug. 29, with the entire building under his control.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

laptop computer for the village squad car.

by Sherill Summer

Board considering sewer rate change

An auditor who reviewed the village’s books has recommended that the village raise the sewer rate charged to its residents. This is not the first year that auditors have recommended this, but so far the village board has not acted on the recommendation. There were two alternative methods to raise rates circulated at the meeting. One plan that came out of committee would raise the residential base and usage rates by 3 percent a year for the next three years, a 9-percent total. Bill Rock proposed an alternative where instead of the flat rate increasing at all, the usage rate would increase by 10 percent next year. The increase in both plans would be about the same, based on 10,000-gallon usage per quarter.

No decision has been made as of yet.

Any sewer rate change would go into effect Jan. 1, 2009.

Board weighs-in on ambulance options The Webster Village trustees filled out the North Memorial Ambulance survey asking for input on service options.

After much discussion, option No. 2 was chosen which would close the Danbury location because it was less expensive than the option that would keep the Danbury location open.

Progress on cell-phone tower negotiations and street repair The cell-phone tower that is planned for the industrial park is closer to reality. Corporate council is assisting with contract language. A motion was passed that when the Alltel-contract negotiations are complete, the village president can sign the contract.

Also, the village board would still like to complete some street repair this year,

Steve Zmuda asked if proof of insurance was requested before hiring a contractor for some curb and gutter work and warned that the work wouldn’t last until spring during the public comments of a village board meeting held Aug. 13. He also asked if the contractor would be required to repair the work if it doesn’t last. After the public comments, the ordinance pertaining to contract work was asked to be put on a future agenda because the ordinance states that contract work be guaranteed for five years. It was thought that the village would have a hard time finding contractors who would guarantee their work for that long.

At the same time, the procedure for choosing contract work might be stated more specifically. – Photos by Sherill Summer

Community center business The rental fees for the community center were waived for a Sept. 14 fundraiser supporting Ashley Clay’s trip to the Capital One Bowl as an allstar cheerleader and for a garage sale supporting Interfaith Caregivers from Aug. 28-31.

The civic groups who use the community center would like to replace the range. Currently there is a gas range, and an electric range has come to light that may be used in the community center. The pros and cons of switching to an electric range were discussed. A final decision has not been made.

The shakes on the community center were painted a light brown instead of the dark brown when the community center was painted recently. Not everyone likes the change, and it was decided that when the shakes need painting again, they could be painted dark again.

For the most part, the board thought the contractor did a very nice job.

Other business

Wayne King, owner of the storage business in the old high school, has been paying fire protection on a twoinch service rate even though the water service was taken out of the building.

The two-inch rate is $117 per quarter.

He is asking that the fire-protection rate be reduced to a base five-eighths rate. A motion to that effect was passed.

It is a Webster Village policy to split the cost of any storm damage blocking streets with the homeowner, and a motion was passed to pay half of a $630 bill from when a tree fell into the street in a storm this summer. Tom Stusek is the landowner that is responsible for the other $315.

A motion was passed authorizing payment for the first half of the villages share of comprehensive planning. The first payment of $2,316 is due by Monday, Sept. 15.

The village trustees are looking for insight into the real estate market with the possibility of listing Smith Pines Development with an agent. An ad will be placed in the newspapers asking that all interested realtors meet with the trustees on Tuesday, Sept. 2.

but they don’t know how much can be repaired with the money they have.

The street committee will look over the bids on Thursday, Aug. 28, and a motion was passed giving the committee authority to make the decision. All trustees are invited to the committee meeting to give input.

Praise for police department over Gandy Dancer Days The board members complimented the police department for a job well done during Gandy Dancer Days. Officer Bridget Getts informed the board that 107 children participated in the bike rodeo. This number is up dramatically from the first rodeo five or six years ago where there were 17 children participating. Already some changes are planned for next year’s rodeo. The police department hopes to move the event to the community center and change it to more of an all-around safety event, instead of focusing on Although the consensus seems to be that the com- bike safety. munity center looks good with its new paint job, the Later during the meetcolor of the shakes above the community center’s ing, it was announced Polk Burnett windows has generated discussion around town. that Operation The village board decided that when the shakes need Electric’s painting again, they would consider if they will be Round Up has funded a returned to the darker brown color.

Burnett County civil court Nuvell Credit Company LLC vs. Jeanie P. Anderson, Grantsburg, return 2005 Chev TrailBlazer plus $453.05 court costs.

Pet Vet vs. Deborah J. Bromley, Siren, $690.25.

Diagnostic, $376.66.

Surgery Clinic of Spooner

vs. Annette Mize, Webster, $485.39.

Surgery Clinic of Spooner vs. Jack Winslow, Webster, $1,902.00.

St. Croix Regional Medical vs. Michael D. Keith, Siren, $1,064.00.

Grindell Law Offices vs.

Jason R. Hansen, Webster, $1,337.95.

Arrow Financial Services LLC vs.

Theresa M. Stromberg, Webster, $5,102.27.

Capital One Bank vs. David E. Mackenburg, Grantsburg, $921.76.

Burnett County warrants Kristina F. Alwine, 26, Shell Lake, warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Marcus A. Backman, 18, Siren, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Sharon A. Beaupre, 52, Gordon, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Tanya M. Belland, 26, Grantsburg, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Jessica R. Bildeau, 19, Standstone, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Dean L. Boyington, 21, Siren, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Julie A. Cairns, 51, Danbury, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Hopi D. Derheim, 36, Maplewood, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Rhonda S. Duran(d), 41, Siren, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Joseph A. Fehrman, 24, Centuria, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Thomas B. Franklin, 21, Hudson, warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 15.

Jordan H. Harelstad, 21, New Auburn, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Drew N. Jaspers, 21,

Grantsburg, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Lawrence J. Johnson, 33, Shell Lake, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Aarol L. Karl, 41, Frederic, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Donna J. Kenny, 44, Forest Lake, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Joshua J. Larson, 22, St. Paul, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Robert L. Lemieux, 19, Cumberland, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Bryan L. Liend, 24, Forest Lake, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Jessica L. Martin, 36, Siren, arrest warrant – complaint, Aug. 14.

Ruben Morales, 53, Stone Lake, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Bradley C. Peterson, 53, Ironwood, Mich., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Anthony J. Plowman, 18, St. Paul, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Joshua J. Reuter, no DOB given, Frederic, warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Heather R. Richison, 30, Otsego, Minn., failure to pay

fines, Aug. 13.

Samantha J. Ryan, 20, Grantsburg, warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Phetsamone Saraday, 34, no address given, arrest warrant – complaint, Aug. 14.

Charlene D. Spohn, 56, Siren, warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Conrad St. John, 24, Webster, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Sara J. Stadler, 25, Webster, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Kiowa S. Staples, 21, Sandstone, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Alissa M. Steiner, 42, Luck, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

David J. Stodolka, 36, St. Paul, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 13.

Michelle A. Vanguilder, 39, St. Paul, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Colleen R. Walmsley, 35, Mason, failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

Camille A. Waterman, 29, Plymouth, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, Aug. 15.

Karen T. Williams, 39, Eagan, Minn., failure to pay fines, Aug. 13.

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

L e a d e r We b Po l l

Last week’s poll results

Total votes: 34

Summer vacation?

53% 18% 21% 9%

18 votes Still haven’t had one 6 votes It was a shorter trip than usual 7 votes Stayed home - “Staycation” 3 votes Still planning

This week’s question

Do you support lowering the drinking age from 21 to 18?: 1. Yes 2. No

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

J o e H e l l e r

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

F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Planning and zoning I heard a story recently about an old farmer who hated two things above all else. One was the idea of the county telling him what he could and couldn’t do on his own property. The other was the sight of his neighbor’s growing collection of junk cars.

This farmer’s dilemma is one we all must deal with as we decide our positions on the twin issues of planning and zoning. Since 1971, Polk County has had a Comprehensive Land Use Ordinance, which town governments have had the choice of adopting or not. At present, 17 of 24 towns have opted to use the county’s ordinance, while three others have written their own. Four towns – Sterling, Laketown, Bone Lake and Balsam Lake – currently have no zoning laws in force.

The county’s land use ordinance basically divides land into districts within which certain activities are allowed and certain other activities are prohibited. There are 10 different district designations, including residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, conservancy and forestry. (There are also subcategories of three of these.) There is a process in the ordinance for moving land from one district to another at a property owner’s or the town board’s request.

The topic of zoning, or lack thereof, has suddenly become extremely relevant to residents of Laketown Township, where Mathy Construction has announced plans for a 300-acre, 100-year gravel mining operation at a beautiful spot known locally as Iver’s Mountain. Despite widespread opposition to the mining operation, town residents are finding that, without zoning, they are virtually powerless to influence the course of Mathy’s plans. A public hearing scheduled by the county’s land conservation committee on Wednesday, Sept. 10, will provide an opportunity for citizens to vent, but the members of that committee must base their votes solely on the merits of Mathy’s reclamation plan – regardless of public concerns about dust, noise, or groundwater issues. (In fact, the county’s Nonmetallic Mining Ordinance, which triggers this hearing, specifically states that “The subject matter and testimony at this informational hearing shall be limited to reclamation of the nonmetallic mine site.”)

How would the situation be different if Laketown had county zoning?

Assuming that the land in question would have been zoned agricultural, Mathy would have had to apply for a special exception from the county’s zoning (a.k.a. land information) committee before filing for a reclamation permit. Mining is an allowable use in an agricultural district, but not without the issuance of a special exception or conditional use permit, as it is sometimes called. The zoning committee would have called a public hearing, but would not have been limited in what information they could consider. In fact, the Comprehensive Land Use Ordinance gives the zoning committee broad latitude to make their decision “based upon such evidence as may be presented at such public hearing tending to show the desirability or undesirability of specific proposed locations for the proposed use from the standpoint of the public interest because of such factors as (without limitation because of enumeration) smoke, dust,

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

noxious and toxic gases and odors, noise, vibrations from operation of heavy equipment, heavy vehicular traffic and increased traffic.”

After considering all testimony, the zoning committee, which comprises five county supervisors, could either deny the special exception outright, grant it outright, or grant it with certain restrictions or conditions, e.g., hours of operation, maximum noise levels, compensation for the impact of mining on local wells, etc. The reason special exceptions are also called conditional use permits is that, if the applicant fails to abide by the conditions imposed by the zoning committee, the permit may be rescinded.

Only after receiving a special exception permit from the zoning committee the company then would proceed to apply for a reclamation permit from the land conservation committee. This extra step could well have meant the difference between mining or not mining on Iver’s Mountain. At the very least it would have provided a process by which local residents could have had their concerns addressed through the imposition of conditions that would have held Mathy to higher standards than they will otherwise have to meet.

Planning and zoning are important tools that allow citizens some measure of control over the scope and pace of development in their communities.

As the situation in Laketown Township demonstrates, the minor inconveniences inherent in zoning are nothing compared with the major disruptions that may result from not having it.

Jeff Peterson Town of Georgetown

Can this happen?

The evening of the last village board meeting, R.J. Severude made it very clear that he does not do neighborhood/community watch programs. Anyone who is aware of these programs knows that the watch program and the local police departments work very closely together to make this program a success.

An essential element of every effective governing body, be it police departments or city councils, is the exit interview. It provides feedback to the specific agencies in what they are doing right and what can be improved upon. It is apparent that this is not happening in Frederic. We must ask the question, why is this not happening? The basic symptom of a failed system is the high rate of turnover. It has come to my attention that the Frederic Police Department is experiencing a high turnover rate. Is this caused by low morale or are there other reasons? A dysfunctional police department is not conducive to receiving constructive criticism from its constituency. What happened at the Aug. 11 village board meeting is reflective of what is happening within our local police department.

Instead of accepting the criticism as constructive, it was misconstrued as a personal attack. This was never my intention. My goal is to get the neighborhood/community watch functioning as a viable addition to the efforts of the police department. To function effectively requires both groups to work together and not at odds with each other. Can this happen in the fine village of Frederic?

Eleanore Carlson/Kevin Iverson Frederic

L e a d e r

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

Leaders/leadership II United States of America vision statement: Be good neighbors to all peaceful nations and conduct free and fair trade with one other. Maximize individual freedom with minimum government intervention. Maximize respect for human life, while pursuing growth with improved quality of life for every citizen.

Mission/goal statement 1. Universal health care for all citizens (Taiwan’s best practice system) to be implemented by 2012.

2. Rebuild all U.S. infrastructure starting now.

3. Shift to 80-percent nuclear electrical energy (France’s best practice system) to be implemented by 2020.

4. Shift 80 percent of transportation to electrical-fuel hybrids by 2014.

5. Freeze all government budgets and shift to only core services. Start 2009 and complete by 2012.

6. Eliminate federal debt. Debt means being beholden to other nations 7. Less than 5-percent unemployment.

Unshackle small business.

8. Manage inflation to 3 percent or less.

9. Encourage real economic growth to 5 percent plus.

10. Demand world trade with balance; zero deficit.

How do we begin to achieve our mission/goals? We can begin by shifting 80 percent of our overseas military back to every state in the U.S., starting in 2009 and to be complete by 2014.

Let’s begin by surveying our citizens for essential core services and then develop a plan for delivery.

Let’s then motivate all citizens to identify and take the waste out of all government, by rewarding a portion of the cost savings back to these people, as in the form of grants and scholarships.

“Improving America, one step at a time” “Building a better tomorrow, together” “ Onward and upward” What should we focus on, issues or vision and mission/goals?

Check back next week for continued thoughts.

Rich Hess Trade Lake

Prioritizing Some members of the county board seem to think the elderly of the county just do not need to be helped.

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r First, they sell Golden Age, then eliminate home care.

The interest alone on a new highway campus to get some equipment out of the snow would easily cover home care.

When I started at the highway department we had three to four times as much equipment as they have today, and it was large equipment. Crushers, power shovels, scrapers and large dozers, paver, rollers, about 14 graders, trucks, mixers for blacktop.

We had room. It may not have all been under roof, but it did not have to be. Just look at the equipment farmers leave out year-around, or drive by implement dealers with millions of dollars of equipment sitting outside.

Polk County may not be the place to live if you are sick or elderly.

Dennis McKinney Rural Luck

Responds to story on Lyme disease That Grantsburg’s Dr. Vitale treats chronic Lyme disease is reassuring.

Most doctors are afraid to buck the Infectious Diseases Society of America, IDSA, which says, “There is no convincing biologic evidence for the existence of chronic Borrelia burgdorferi [Lyme disease] infection...“ Early researchers believed Lyme was a relapsing, recalcitrant infection, like the Borrelia that causes Relapsing Fever, or that it could act like tertiary syphilis (which it does). These researchers, several of whom are IDSA Lyme disease treatment guidelines authors, now believe there is no “chronic” Lyme.

Another perspective and treatment guidelines from the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society are posted, along with IDSA guidelines, at www.guideline.gov.

Dr. Vitale said, “Patients who do not respond to standard treatment do not have Lyme disease, they really have something else...”

Patients may not respond to Lyme treatment because multiple infections— Erlichiosis/Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis, and Bartonella—come from tick bites too. Treatment for one of these diseases does not necessarily treat the others. Coinfections can be life-threatening. (Clin Infect Dis 2008 Feb; JAMA 2004 Nov; Clin Vaccine Immunol 2007 Nov.) Lyme patients may feel worse on antibiotics. This worsening, called a Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction, is from the die-off of bacteria. Doctors may tell patients who feel worse to stop their

Don’t cage dissent he bulwark against tyranny is dissent. Open opposition, the right to challenge those in power, is a mainstay of any healthy democracy. The Democratic and Republican conventions will test the commitment of the two dominant U.S. political parties to the cherished tradition of dissent. Things are not looking good.

Denver’s CBS 4 News just reported that the city is planning on jailing arrested Democratic Convention protesters at a warehouse with barbed-wire-topped cages and signs warning of stun guns in use.

Meanwhile, a federal judge has ruled that a designated protest area is legal, despite claims that protesters will be too far from the Democratic delegates to be heard.

The full spectrum of police and military will also be on hand at the Democratic Convention in Denver, many of them coordinated by a “fusion center.” These centers are springing up around the country, as an outgrowth of the post-9/11 national-security system. Erin Rosa of the online Colorado Independent recently published a report on the fusion center, which will be sharing information with the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI and the U.S. Northern Command. The center is set up to gather and distribute “intelligence” about “suspicious activities,” which, Rosa points out, “can include taking

pictures or taking notes. The definition is very broad.”

Civil-rights advocates fear the fusion center could enable unwarranted spying on protesters exercising their First Amendment rights at the convention.

Documents obtained

by I-Witness Video, a group that documents police abuses and demonstrations, revealed that the CIA and the Defense Intelligence Agency were receiving intelligence about the protests at the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York City. The growing problem is that legal, peaceful protesters are ending up on federal databases and watch lists with scant legal oversight.

Former FBI agent Mike German is now a national-security-policy counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union. He said, “It’s unclear who is actually in charge and whose rules apply to the information that’s being collected and shared and distributed through these fusion centers.” Maryland State Police were recently exposed infiltrat-

Amy Goodman

antibiotics, calling them “nonresponders.”

Dr. Vitale “. . .admits the tests are not perfect, he thinks they are generally adequate screening for the infection.”

People with negative tests might consider: A study of 516 U.S. laboratories found Lyme disease screening tests only 45-percent accurate. And another study from Johns Hopkins of people with documented Lyme disease found only 18 percent had positive blood tests.

Regarding positive results, perhaps Dr. Vitale’s belief that the tests are “too sensitive” is shared by other doctors who do not report positive screening test results to their patients. As a Lyme group leader, I encourage people to secure copies of their lab results. Many find positive or borderline positive results that were never reported to them.

One man came to our group with five positive tests (3 ELISAs, 2 CDC-positive Western Blots), yet his family doctor, a rheumatologist, and an infectious disease doctor told him he did not have Lyme disease. His incapacitating arthritis followed a tick bite he incurred the summer before I met him.

If, as Dr. Vitale says, there are so “...many excellent specialists nearby that are very familiar with the disease since it is so common in this region,” why is Lyme missed and misdiagnosed by physicians so often that Gov. Doyle, in his 2004 Lyme disease proclamation, added a plea for doctors to treat Lyme disease in our state?

Doctors unfamiliar with Lyme’s neuro-psychiatric manifestations are likely to tell patients, “Your Lyme disease is all in your head.” Few physicians are able to simultaneously treat Lyme and Lyme-caused psychiatric disorders.

By reading and explaining medical studies at our meetings, I lead through science. I do not recommend Lyme disease tests that are “not scientifically approved,” nor do I recommend clinics not grounded in basic medicine.

Dr. Vitale said, “people with axes to grind” seek out groups like ours. If your Lyme disease diagnosis was missed or test results weren’t reported to you, wouldn’t you want to join a group to protect others from the same medical malfeasance?

Our group tells the truth about Lyme.

I believe the fear we generate is healthy fear. Lyme disease is an epidemic of untold suffering which has been casually pushed to the back burner of public health, overshadowed by other diseases that kill more quickly but are truly rare.

Few people know every tick bite can produce a latent, or hidden, infection ing groups like the Baltimore Coalition Against the Death Penalty. German explains how police expand “beyond normal lawenforcement functions, and start becoming intelligence collectors against protest groups. The reports that we obtained ... make clear that there was no indication of any sort of criminal activity. And yet, that investigation went on for 14 months, and these reports were uploaded into a federal database. ... When all these agencies are authorized to go out and start collecting this information and putting it in areas where it’s accessible by the intelligence community, it’s a very dangerous proposition for our democracy.”

After Barack Obama became the presumptive Democratic nominee, the protest coalition in Denver splintered, as many were motivated originally by the anticipated nomination of the more hawkish Hillary Clinton.

An anarchist group, Unconventional Denver, actually offered to call off its protests if Denver would redirect the $50 million federal grant it is receiving for security to “reinvest their police budget toward real community security: new elementary schools; health care for the uninsured; providing clean, renewable energy.”

The plea has not been answered. The city, meanwhile, is stocking up on “less-lethal” pepper-ball rifles and has set aside a space for permitted protesting that some are referring to as the “Freedom Cage.”

and that symptoms might not surface for years. In fact, a growing number of Lyme-knowledgeable people believe asymptomatic latent infections and mother-to-child transmission have a role in epidemic autism.

“There is nothing about chronic Lyme disease that would make me move away,” Dr. Vitale said. However, in a new book, “Cure Unknown: Inside the Lyme Epidemic,” author Pamela Weintraub felt moving away was exactly what her family had to do to avoid reinfection in the area she calls the “Lymelands.”

Although I am angry over the lack of care for Lyme disease sufferers, I am lucky not to be as affected as many who were under treated and undiagnosed. I am happy to have the strength to lead my group and thankful for the encouragement of the members. They understand when I stumble in front of them; they know I am not drunk, that the illness affects my balance.

They forgive me when I stumble over my words; they know it is Lyme in my brain. Their belief in me gives me faith to carry on.

For them and for myself, I remain hopeful that medicine will right itself over Lyme disease, acknowledging the seriousness and persistence of the illness, giving doctors the right to treat patients for as long as they need to be treated.

Marina Andrews Western Wisconsin Lyme Action Group Rural Luck

Respectful I am K.N.F., the victim in the Rogelio Torres child sexual assault case that was covered in your paper the week of July 31. I think you did a great job reporting this case, yet protecting my identity and respecting my privacy as a victim. Your reporter, Gary King, included enough information to state what happened but still kept all the details vague.

I only wish that some of the other area papers could have taken the same care in their articles covering this event. As an innocent victim, I appreciate your respectful coverage of this case.

K.N.F. Luck

We’re online @ www.the-leader.net Meanwhile, in the Twin Cities, the evening Obama was giving his Democratic acceptance speech in June, the St. Paul Police Department arrested a 50-year-old man peacefully handing out leaflets promoting a Sept. 1 march on the Republican National Convention. After mass arrests at the RNC in Philadelphia in 2000 and roughly 1,800 arrests in New York City in 2004, ACLU Minnesota predicts hundreds will be arrested in St. Paul, and is organizing and training 75 lawyers to defend them.

For now, the eyes of the world are on the Beijing Olympics. Sportswriter Dave Zirin is reporting on the suppression of protests that are occurring there. He has an interesting perspective, as he is a member of the anti-death-penalty group infiltrated in Maryland. He told me, “Our taxpayer dollars went to pay people to infiltrate and take notes on our meetings, and it’s absolutely enraging ... a lot of this Homeland Security funding is an absolute sham ... it’s being used to actually crush dissent, not to keep us safer in any real way.” The lack of freedom of speech in China is getting a little attention in the news. But what about the crackdown on dissent here at home?

Dissent is essential to the functioning of a democratic society. There is no more important time than now.

- The Amy Goodman column is sponsored by The Gathering

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

“We need to find $3 million”

Polk County looks for cuts, revenue to balance budget

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – “We need to find $3 million,” supervisor Gary Bergstrom, chair of the finance committee, told the Polk County Board Tuesday night, Aug. 19, at the end-of-the-monthly board meeting.

The county is working to prepare a 2009 budget. The personnel and finance committees have just completed two weeks of reviewing proposed staffing plans and budgets. The personnel committee has made a first round of cuts, proposing the elimination of one program and the sale of another. This Thursday, the finance committee makes its initial recommendations.

The county started the budget process with an expected $1.5 million shortfall from the present budget. That sum includes three large items. First, adjust-

ments to the levy cap for debt service means the county will start with a decrease in the estimated operating levy of $642,000. Second, the county took $500,000 in capital improvements off last year’s levy and switched those expenses to short-term borrowing. The county is not planning, at this time, on using this borrowing again.

Third, the county used $500,000 from its reserves to balance the 2008 budget.

No mention has been made during the meetings so far of the amount available in the county’s reserve but it is presumed that this money is being held to cover increased wage and benefit costs in the coming union wage negotiations for 2009 and 2010.

The county has a number of areas in which to make budget adjustments.

Staffing - personnel cost - is a major part of the county expense. Changes here could include eliminating jobs, temporary layoffs, and limiting wage increases, possibly by shifting some benefit expenses to the employees. Other expenses, operating costs, might be cut.

Some have recommended that the county cut entire programs but there are few unmandated options to eliminate. Some expenses might be deferred until future years. Another option includes again taking capital costs off the levy and using more borrowing. There is also a possibility of more revenues. This could include selling county properties and instituting a vehicle or wheel tax on cars in the county.

There are a number of unknowns facing the county as it prepares its 2009 budget.

Fuel taxes are a major unknown.

Many employees, sheriff’s deputies, highway workers, public health nurses, and others, must be on the road. Fuel costs may continue to increase and the county must decide whether to budget for $6 a gallon gas now or make possible adjustments later. Wage and benefit negotiations are just starting and the final outcome of these costs, including the cost for health insurance, won’t be known for a while. (The county still has not settled the 2007-2008 contract with

the public protection field officers). The short-term costs of repairing the highway building are not known.A report on options there is being prepared.

The county also does not know if the sale of Golden Age Manor will proceed.

If the sale does not happen, the county would need to find funding for the 2007 GAM operating losses, which would have come out of the proceeds, plus legal expenses for the court case.

First-round budget and staffing recommendations will be going to the departments for review in the coming weeks. Updated staff plans and budgets must be returned to the Employee Relations and Administration Departments by Sept. 5.

There will be further adjustments and a chance for appeals in early October.

The county board must approve staffing plans and a preliminary budget at its October meeting. The November board meeting will include a public hearing before the 2009 budget is adopted and property tax statements are prepared.

The five members of the finance committee, Gary Bergstrom, Mick Larsen, Bryan Beseler, Brian Masters and Kathryn Kienholz, met that afternoon.

No one from finance attended the staffing section of the morning personnel meeting, so there was some parallel discussion.

the division serve the entire health department and their jobs, at an estimated cost of $100,000, would need to be continued.

Sampson said that she had not been advised of the personnel committee action on Friday until she read about it in the paper. She went into the monthly meeting of the board of health the following Tuesday unaware that an entire department program might be cut.

The proposed elimination of home care is still a recommendation pending an appeal.

The idea of changing the operation was discussed briefly at the finance committee and will be reviewed further.

Highway improvement plans slashed

Home-care cut protested, option for lime quarry

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Two weeks of personnel and finance committee meetings to review proposed department staffing plans and budgets came to a conclusion Thursday, Aug. 14, when each committee met to assess the progress of preparing a 2009 budget for Polk County.

The personnel committee completed round one of its staffing work by approving the recommendations it had reached the previous Friday. The finance committee listened to the last budget presentations and will start making its recommendations this Thursday, Aug. 21.

The personnel committee met on the morning of the 14th with four of its five members, Russ Arcand, Gerald Newville, Patricia Schmidt, and Herschel Brown present. Nine of the 17 county department heads also attended the meeting, their first chance to react to the committee’s staffing recommendations.

Home care “The home-care program takes care of the most needy of our elderly,” public health director Gretchen Sampson said.

“The county home care program takes all people and serves people with medical needs that other programs won’t take.

“Cutting home care is not like shutting a retail business,” board of health member Wanda Johnson said. “We accept the responsibility of providing care for clients for the entire time they need that care. We can’t abandon them.”

It was pointed out that cutting the program would not save the estimated $325,000, about 25 percent of the program cost. First, the county would need to continue care for some clients who have no other option for care and would need to be phased out over a period of time. Secondly, two of the staff within

Lime quarry It was been suggested that the lime quarry is of long-term value to the county, both as a revenue producer and as a source of needed materials. It has been proposed that the quarry could be operated at less cost. Instead of running a crusher all year, a portable crusher would be brought in once a year to crush the material. Buyers could check out their truckloads of material at an automated scale and receive an immediate invoice. The quarry could be run with a minimal cost with fewer employees, providing a larger profit to the county.

Highway road improvement plan “There is no bright spot for our highway program,” highway Commissioner Steve Warndahl said. “Costs for road work and materials have gone up 30 percent. Our five-year road plan covered by the bonding is now a three-year plan. We are using the funds faster than we expected to carry out our plan, and will not have the funds to complete the entire project.”

Warndahl said the situation is grave for roadwork everywhere and there are few options.

Poor roads are dangerous, and the county hopes to keep the asphalt roads safe enough to drive on.

He added that the roads may fail faster than the county can afford to fix them, and projected that we might see the end of the public highway system as we know it.

More on Iver's Mountain The first Iver homesteaded land in 1872; Fourth generation is on family farm

by Gregg Westigard LAKETOWN – In the early 1870s, Iver Jorgensen (the name was spelled ‘sen’ in those days) was walking from Clam Falls to St. Croix Falls.

People walked long distances in those days. The family story is that he came to the valley where the Trade River runs at the base of a wooded hill, liked the land, and homesteaded a farm in 1872.

His land, on CTH B, is now farmed by his greatgrandson, Russell Jorsenson, who lives the original house, much remodeled over the years.

The first Iver lived from 1841 to 1905. He had a son, Bern, who lived from 1875 to 1958. Bern was the father of five sons, most of whom continued to live in the area and carry on the farming tradition.

The third generation brothers were Frederic, Iver, Howard, Trevor and Dayton. This second Iver served as town chair for 24 years until 1993. Frederic was the father of Russell who still lives on the farm. Trevor is the only brother still living.

According to a family member, Trevor’s son, Gary, was responsible for getting the street on the top of the hill named Iver’s Mountain Road as a recognition to the second Iver for his years of public service.

ABOVE: Iver’s Mountain from CTH B.The Terry Mattson farm is on the left and the Daniel King home on the right.

LEFT: Looking down on the Mark Gustafson home from the top of Iver’s Mountain.

- Photos by Gregg Westigard

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

Music in the Park

The hill was alive with the sound of music last Friday evening at Memory Lake Park in Grantsburg. Music lovers started setting up their lawn chairs early to hear the Wilson Family Singers and Friends perform. The beautiful weather made for a fine evening for the large crowd attending this Music in the Park event sponsored by the Grantsburg Music Festival Society. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Galen Brown was busy grilling pork chops last Friday evening for the large crowd who came to enjoy dinner and music at Memory Lake Park in Grantburg. Brown organized the Music in the Park event for the Grantsburg Music Festival Society group. Diners later enjoyed entertainment by the Wilson Family Singers and Friends.

The Wilson Family Singers and Friends performed last Friday, Aug. 15, evening at Memory Lake Park in Grantsburg. The performance was sponsored by the Grantsburg Music Festival Society as part of the group’s Music in the Park series.

Polk County traffic report Steve M. Allen, Grantsburg, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Annette A. Anderson, Centuria, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Nicholas S. Arnott, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Justin A. Asper, Frederic, operating without valid license, $148.20.

Sarah A. Bagley, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Amy H. Balsimo, Amery, fish without license, $188.20.

Anthony E. Bauer, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $132.20.

Anthony L. Beasley, Maplewood, Minn., fail to carry boat floatation devices, $148.20.

Daniel L. Berg, Cumberland, speeding, $160.80.

Stephanie A. Berglund, Plymouth, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Paul C. Bergmann, Cumberland, fail to keep records/provide incorrect information, group deer hunting violation, not guilty pleas.

Monica E. Berry, New Richmond, operate personal watercraft without valid safety certificate, not guilty plea.

Mary A. Borgerson, Luck, speeding, not guilty plea.

Gerald L. Boucher, Amery, nonregistratioin of auto, $160.80.

Joey S. Bowman, Coon Rapids, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Stephen A. Brower, Owatonna, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Richard G. Burnett, Palm Springs, Calif., speeding, $186.00.

Christopher M. Callahan, Wauwatosa, molest/destroy state property, not guilty plea.

Brent O. Carlson, Lino Lakes, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Dallas J. Caroon, Luck, hit and run – property adjacent to highway, not guilty plea.

Nathaniel P. Causey, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Albert J. Cebery, Amery, nonregistration of auto,

$249.00; nonregistration of auto, $249.00; fail to yield while making left turn, $168.80.

Ryan G. Clover, Harris, Minn., operate without valid license, $186.00.

Kelly P. Connell, Ogilvie, Minn., operator violate yellow traffic signal, $160.80.

Roger A. Corty, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Jerry D. Cozby, Wenatchee, Wash., failure to stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Mary K. Czech, Chippewa Falls, speeding, not guilty plea.

Max B. Diederich, Mendota Heights, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Mary K. Donlan, Blaine, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Benjamin A. Draigich, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Patrick M. Eaton, Frederic, driving too fast for conditions, $198.60.

Arthur G. Eldal, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

James W. Elvin, Prior Lake, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Reinhard S. Engelmayer, New Brighton, Minn., disorderly conduct, $186.00.

Emily A. Erdmann, Bloomington, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Tiffany N. Fisher, West St. Paul, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

James F. Flaherty, Balsam Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

James J. Flick, Centuria, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Melissa A. Flick, Glenwood City, fish without license, $123.20.

George C. Funk, Long Lake, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

David J. Gauerke, Forest Lake, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

William J. Glampe, Lakeland, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

David J. Glick, Bloomington, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Elsa R. Goodier, Eau Claire, speeding, $186.00.

Eric B. Goulet, Balsam Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Eric L. Gray, St. Paul, Minn., hunt without license, $192.20.

Faith A. Gustafson,

Osceola, speeding, $160.80.

Margery L. Hagg, Vadnais Heights, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Robert J. Hall, Roseville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

John C. Harvey, Bloomington, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Raymie L. Headley, Clayton, operating while revoked, $249.00.

Cody L. Hetrick, Milltown, knowingly operating while suspended and cause injury to another person, $6,463.00; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Cory D. Hickerson, Andover, Minn., operate ATV without valid safety certificate, not guilty plea.

Daniel T. Hustad, Osceola, type 1 motorcycle permittee operate cycle with unqualified passenger, $186.00.

Jeffrey S. Jacobs, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Amber L. Johnson, South St. Paul, Minn., illegally jump/dive into St. Croix River, $135.60.

Ezra V. Johnson, Taylors Falls, Minn., resist or obstruct law enforcement officer, $249.00.

Thomas P. Johnson, St. Croix Falls, nonregistration of auto, $160.80.

Kelly D. Kielas-Jensen, St. Paul, Minn., fail/carry boat floatation devices, $148.20.

Marc K. Kimball, Lake Elmo, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Thomas A. Koentopp, Vadnais Heights, Minn., fail/carry boat floatation devices, $148.20.

Joan L. Kofoid, Marseilles, Ill., speeding, $186.00.

Ralph A. Kolstad, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Mary J. Kratz, Stillwater, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Laslo J. Lak, Aliso Viejo, Calif., operate personal watercraft without valid safety certificate, $148.20.

Roger K. Larsen, St. Croix Falls, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Adam L. Leckey, Taylors Falls, Minn., disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Pamela S. Lejeune, Osceola, fish without license,

$188.20.

James F. Lewis, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Andrew S. Lindahl, Amery, inattentive driving, $173.40; operating left of centerline, $198.60.

Erik H. Lindberg, no town given, possess marijuana on state land, $249.00.

Anthony L. Lingen, New Richmond, seat belt violation, $10.00; operating while revoked, $249.00.

Dana J. Lonien, Maplewood, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Robert J. Lothenbach, Eden Praire, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Tyler G. MacNeal, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $123.00.

Jerry L. Mapes, Amery, possession of illegal-sized fish, $123.00.

Jean A. Mattiacci, Somerset, speeding, $160.80.

Donald W. Mayer, Tripoli, Iowa, possession, of illegalsized fish, $248.60.

Morgan L. McKusick, Kelowna, B.C., fish without license, $186.00.

Paul A. Melgar, Eagan, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Alice F. Messer, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Timothy C. Meyer, Minnetonka, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Barbara J. Miller, Dallas, Texas, speeding, $186.00.

Kim F. Moen, Plymouth, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Alan M. Morrison, South St. Paul, Minn., illegally jump/dive into St. Croix River, $135.60.

Nathaniel R. Nadeau, St. Croix Falls, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Timothy J. Nelson, Taylors Falls, Minn., failure to notify police of accident, $249.00; inattentive driving, $173.40.

Steven L. Nusbaum, Stillwater, Minn., operate boat without valid cert. number, $186.00.

Michael J. Obreg, Eau Claire, speeding, $160.80.

Michelle C. Ortez, St. Paul, Minn., operate without valid

license, $186.00.

Chris L. Paradise, White Bear Lake, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Justin M. Paul, Rice Lake, inattentive driving, $173.40.

Shayne D. Peterson, St. Louis Park, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Zak S. Prauer, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $123.00.

Aaron A. Prazuch, New Richmond, speeding, $186.00.

Thomas A. Raby, Birchwood, speeding, $160.80.

Sarah M. Rader, Chesterfield, Mo., speeding, $211.20.

Dwight I. Rajdi, Center City, Minn., operating boat towing skier w/o observer, $160.80.

Mary E. Ranalla, Stillwater, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Robert J. Reppen, Maple Grove, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Judith A. Roe, Grantsburg, speeding, $186.00.

Heather M. Rogers, Hayward, speeding, $160.80.

Michael R. Rossow, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Eric A. Saari, Wichita, Kan., speeding, $186.00.

Jeremy B. Saaw, Cumberland, possess birds, etc. during closed season, not guilty plea.

Daniel G. Sairio, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Jay B. Saterbak, Prior Lake, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Charles C. Saxon, Lenox, Ill., speeding, $186.00.

Nancy L. Schult, Cottage Grove, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Hank E. Schulte, Morristown, Minn., unreasonable and imprudent speed, $198.60.

Schultz Excavating, Balsam Lake, vehicle equipment violations, group 2, $194.00.

David M. Shilson, Star Prairie, nonregistration of auto, $160.80.

Kermit L. Simonson, Lakeville, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Joshua J. Skoug, Range, failure to notify police of acci-

dent, $249.00; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Andrew J. Smith, Luck, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Katherine C. Smith, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Ryan P. Smith, Menomonie, fish without license, $188.20.

Eric E. Smoczyk, St. Paul, Minn., fish without license, $192.00.

Robert W. Stolpestad, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Brenda M. Striegel, Rice Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Lila J. Sturgeon, Welch, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Kurt T. Suckut, Amery, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Dustin L. Taylor, Frederic, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Matthew L. Thompson, Cumberland, operate ATV w/o valid safety certificate, $148.20.

Cynthia H. Thorman, Osceola, speeding, $160.80.

VA T. Vang, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Brian W. Volkert, New Richmond, inattentive driving, not guilty plea.

Anthony T. Wall, St. Croix Falls, fish without license, $188.20.

Melanie A. Warner, Lino Lakes, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Theodore W. Weldon, Chaska, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Peter M. Weyandt, St. Paul, Minn., illegally jump/dive into St. Croix River, $135.60.

Kay J. Whelan, Crystal, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

MaryAnne M. Williams, Minneapolis, Minn., fish without license, $192.20.

Michael L. Wilson, Maple Grove, Minn., possess/discharge fireworks/state park, $186.00.

Hollie V. Wingate, St. Louis Park, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Jessica L. Wohlwend, Shoreview, Minn., operating boat towing skier without observer, $160.80.

Richard A. Young, No. St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Ne w ca sin o p r ogr e ss e s

The new Hole In The Wall Casino and Hotel at Danbury is beginning to overshadow the current casino after steady construction progress this spring and summer. The new casino is scheduled to open in December, featuring 580 slot machines, 18 game tables, a 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. St. Croix Tribal Enterprises currently operates two casinos besides the one at Danbury - at Hertel and Turtle Lake. The tribe is also attempting to get approval for a casino and resort complex near Beloit. The Beloit project is a joint effort with the Bad River Tribe. - Photos by Gary King

Ein Prosit!

Among those entertaining at the annual Oktoberfest at Danbury last Saturday, Aug. 16, were Mark La Course and the Schuftplattler Gruppe Edelweis of St. Paul, a family band that kept the polka dancers moving and the toasts coming. “Ein Prosit!” (A toast to you!) could be heard throughout the Oktoberfest tent. More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Gary King

Powwow this weekend

The St. Croix Chippewa of Wisconsin invites the public to the annual Wild Rice Powwow, a traditional powwow that celebrates the harvest of wild rice in the northern lakes of Wisconsin. This year’s Wild Rice Powwow will be held Friday - Sunday, Aug. 22-24, one mile west of the Hole in the Wall Casino in Danbury. Grand entries for this year’s powwow are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, and 1 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 24. During the grand entry powwow attendees have a firsthand opportunity to see the wide variety of regalia worn by participating dancers. There will also be opportunities to sample Native American food and check out authentic Native American crafts. While you’re at the powwow, make sure to visit the food and craft vendors booths, where you can snack on fry bread, Indian tacos and wild rice soup or shop for Native American crafts, books, clothes and drums. Powwow attendees also have the chance to win prizes. Door prizes, including $1,000 in cash, a Predator ATV, a new computer and a new camcorder, will be given away at approximately 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 24. Winners need not be present. An admission button for the entire powwow weekend is only $5. Tribal elders and children 10 and younger are admitted free. For more information on the Wild Rice Powwow, call Steve Thoreson at Hole in the Wall at 800-BET-UWIN. – from the St. Croix Tribe

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

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F R E D E R I C • G R A N T S B U R G • L U C K • S T. C R O I X F A L L S • S I R E N • U N I T Y • W E B S T E R

Kalmoe, Tomek take fifth in rowing finals

by Marty Seeger BEIJING, CHINA – Megan Kalmoe and Ellen Tomek’s Olympic journey came to an end in Beijing on Saturday, Aug. 16, when the double sculls duo placed fifth in the finals. They finished with a time of 7:17.53, just 10.21 seconds behind the first-place New Zealand team. The Germans came a split second away from gold with a time of 7:07.33, with Great Britain bringing home bronze with a time of 7:07.55. China finished with a time of 7:15.85 for the fourth spot. Kalmoe spoke with high spirits to Sean Jensen of the Pioneer Press after their race in the finals.

“It’s awesome just to be here,” she told Jensen. “Ellen and I have been sculling for two years, so to even have made the A final and be competitive with these guys, and have traded victories with some of these crews over the course of the season, is awesome. We’re really proud of how we did.”

Ellen Tomek (L) and Megan Kalmoe cross the finish line in the Olympic finals where they placed fifth. – Photo by Ed Hewitt, row2k.com

BMX rider in Beijing has ties with Frederic, Siren

Mike Day

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC – BMX bike racing is made its debut on the Olympic stage in Beijing Wednesday, Aug. 20. Among the 32 male riders and 16 female riders going for gold for the first time in the sport’s history, is Mike Day. Day is the grandson of Frederic resident Lois Heffner, and son of Robin Day of Siren.

Day’s grandfather Bill Heffner was the deacon of the Catholic Church in Webster.

Day, one of four athletes from the United States in this event, won his chance to go to the Olympic games by becoming the U.S. Olympic trials champion earlier this year at a track in Chula Vista, Calif. Day grew up in Santa

Clarita, Calif. Some of his accomplishments include a runner-up finish in 2005 world championships as well as a bronze medal in 2006.

BMX races start out with eight riders in each heat and take off from a huge 35foot starting ramp that leads them onto a course filled with twists, turns and jumps. The sport is also filled with spills and injuries due to the high speeds and fierce competitiveness to make the finish line.

The event was scheduled to appear on Wednesday, Aug. 20, with the finals to come the following Thursday.

SCF golf gets start at Barron Scramble Takes first place in fourth consecutive year GRANTSBURG – The St. Croix Falls girls golf team began the season last week with a stop at the Barron Scramble at Rolling Oaks Golf Course. For the fourth consecutive year, the team started strong by bringing home the firstplace trophy with a score of 63 in the rain-soaked event. The team was led by senior Jenny Benoy and junior Marissa Campeau, with sophomores Tess Hedrick, Taylor Stowell, Brittany Buss and junior Cortney Rasmussen all contributing.

The team has five returning letter winners from last year’s squad which sent two individuals to the state championships at University Ridge in Madison, including Benoy, who finished seventh overall. The girls have set team, as well as individual goals for this

The St. Croix Falls golf team got a good start to the season with its fourthconsecutive tournament win in Barron last week. – Photo submitted year’s season and have vowed to work hard to achieve them. Coaches Terry and Jeff Benoy are excited to work with a focused group of girls and are looking forward to the 2008 season. The team also played two 18-hole matches this

week, at Krooked Kreek Golf Course in Osceola on Monday, Aug. 18, and at Bristol Ridge Golf Course in Somerset Wednesday, Aug. 20. – submitted

Extra Points

••• LEADERLAND – Practices for all of the fall high school sports officially got under-way this week. Athletes participating in volleyball and crosscountry are busy preparing for their first meets and matches, while football players will be heading to their first scrimmages by this Friday, Aug. 22. - Marty Seeger ••• MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee Brewers games featured on WXCE 1260 can be heard on the following dates: The Aug. 22, 23 and 24 games with Pittsburg at Milwaukee begin at 7 p.m., 6 p.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. The Milwaukee at St. Louis games can be heard on Aug. 26 and 27 at 7:15 p.m. both nights.

••• MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota Twins games featured on WLMX 104.9 FM can be heard on the following dates: The Aug. 21, 22 and 24 Minnesota at L.A. Angels games can be heard at 9 p.m, 9 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. respectively.

The Minnesota at Seattle games on Aug. 25, 26 and 27 can be heard at 1 p.m., 7:15 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. respectively.

••• GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers at Denver game featured on WLMX 105.7 FM can be heard on Aug. 22 beginning at 8 p.m.

••• MINNEAPOLIS – The Pittsburg Steelers at Minnesota Vikings game on WLMX 104.9 can be heard on Aug. 23 at 7:00 p.m.

••• 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

SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 10 p.m. 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

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Unity/Luck tennis team has best showing in Eau Claire Girls take fourth place

by Brenda Sommerfeld EAU CLAIRE – “The girls played very well for their first matches of the season and that was our best showing in the Eau Claire tournament in the last few years,” said newcomer coach Sarah Schmidt.

The Unity/Luck tennis team traveled to Eau Claire on Saturday, Aug. 16, to start off their season. Their first match was against Altoona, which they won, 4-3. Next came the Division 1 team, Hudson High School. With many close matches, the Unity/Luck girls couldn’t quite pull off the second win, losing to Hudson 6-1. Another Division 1 team, Chippewa Falls, was their next opponent. They lost, 4-3, taking fourth overall.

Christine Franzel plays No. 3 singles. She went 2-1 during the Eau Claire tournament Saturday, Aug. 16.

After going to the state tennis competition during the 2007 season, No. 1 singles player Stephanie Kothlow started 2008 off strong. She won all three of her matches during the Eau Claire tournament on Saturday, Aug. 16. – Photos submitted

New addition to football field at Frederic

Contributions and donations from a number of area residents made it possible for upgrades to the Frederic football field, including a new press box, a ticket-booth area, and updates to the storage and old concession stands. – Photos by Gary King FREDERIC - Area residents who have gone for walks or drives around the football field at the north end of the elementary school grounds have noticed some big changes going on throughout the summer to the pressbox and concession areas.

Football fans will notice them in the fall when they attend home football games. The additions to the football complex are a result of contributions and donations from a number of area residents. The initiative for the program came originally from a need to make some improvements to the previous press box for safety reasons and repair some deterioration. The project became a reality when substantial contributions and donations of time were made by a

number of area residents.

The project eventually included a new press box and concession area, a new ticket booth and entrance to the field area and renovation of the previous concession and storage area. The coordinator of the project was David Anderson and Anderson Construction.

Anderson Construction and employees Mark Ronningen, Warren Schmidt and Zach Anderson donated many hours to this project.

All of the materials and supplies for the project were donated by Dennis Frandsen, a Frederic graduate from the early 1950s who has been involved in numerous charitable endeavors in this area in recent years. Other local individuals who were directly involved in

donating time, resources, and energy include Brad Schmidt/Northwoods Electric, Ray Gruel/Gruel Masonry, Glenn Matz/Masonry Builders, Terry Siebenthal/Air World, Gregg Engelhart and Kevin Weinzierl, Brad Domagala, Gary and Luann Ackerley/Ackerley Drywall, Bruce Wikstrom, Scott Nelson, Tom Nelson, Todd Wondra, Dave Paulsen, Robert Carlson/Carlson Excavation, along with the Frederic Village maintenance crew.

The Frederic School administration, the football team and coaches, along with residents of the school district extend gratitude to these people for their generous donation of time, money, and resources for this project. These items are a tremendous addition to the

athletic facilities and could not have been accomplished without these contributions. The athletic department is planning to recognize those individuals and groups who contributed to those efforts at the first home football game on Friday evening, Sept. 5. The Frederic Vikings will host the Flambeau Falcons that evening.

Football fans and area residents are encouraged to come out that evening to show their support and thanks for the generosity and contributions of these people.

Questions concerning the evening program on Sept. 5 can be directed to the high school office at 715327-4223. – from the Frederic High School

Federal Duck Stamps now available from ALIS license vendors MADISON – Waterfowl hunters can now purchase their Federal Duck Stamp from any one of more than 1,300 Wisconsin hunting and fishing license sales locations beginning with the 2008 hunting season. Wisconsin is one of nine states selected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to pilot a new method of purchasing a Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, commonly known as a Federal Duck Stamp.

Hunters who purchase their Federal Duck Stamp at a Wisconsin hunting and

fishing licensing sales location will receive a document verifying their stamp purchase that will be valid for 45 days. This proof of purchase will fulfill the requirement for waterfowl hunters to possess the stamp and allows free entrance into any National Wildlife Refuge. The actual stamp will be mailed to the purchaser within 45 days.

“This new service will make it possible for hunters to purchase all the necessary licenses, permits and stamps needed for waterfowl hunting in one stop,”

said Kevin Huggins, section chief of the DNR licensing section.

The cost of the Federal Duck Stamp is $17.50, which includes a $2.50 service charge. Federal Duck Stamps will only be available over the counter at license sales locations, initially. Stamps will become available on Wisconsin’s Internet and telephone sales site in the near future.

Every waterfowl hunter over the age of 16 is required to buy a Federal Duck Stamp in order to hunt waterfowl, in

addition to any state license, permit or stamp requirements. Many nonhunters also purchase stamps for collecting purposes and to support waterfowl habitat and waterfowl conservation efforts.

Funds from duck stamp revenue assists with the development and maintenance of wetland habitats that benefit waterfowl and many other species of wetland wildlife. For more information contact Kevin Hugginsa at 608-267-9533. –from the DNR

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

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Gustafson tops mods

ST. CROIX FALLS – Perfect weather greeted fans and the 81 racers who checked in to compete Friday night at Kopellah Speedway. With only three weeks of competition remaining, some division points battles reached the boiling point.

Amsoil Dirt Track Series feature racing got off to a flying start with the WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds. Kyle Matuska and Tim Swanson led the field of 17 to the opening green flag and Swanson quickly established himself at the point. Third-starting Ryan Viltz was quickly on Swanson’s rear bumper and applied intense pressure for the first five laps. Finally, on lap six, Viltz found his opening and scooted to the point. The big mover in the feature was Bloomer’s Ronnie Rihn. After suffering a flat in his heat race, Rihn started the main event 16th on the grid and methodically worked his way through the field. By lap nine, Rihn had cracked the top five.

With Viltz not seeing any serious challenges up front, Rihn found himself in third on lap 16 when the caution came out. Kopellah Speedway’s Delaware double-file restarts meant Rihn would restart the race directly behind Viltz.

Rihn doggedly worked the low groove in the waning laps, looking for a route to the front. On this night, however, Viltz had the car to beat, and he would prove unbeatable, picking up the cleansweep feature win. Rihn finished an impressive second ahead of track points-leader John Remington. Frank Soucek had a late charge into the fop five to come home in fourth place ahead of Jimmy Latvala.

In the WISSOTA Street Stocks, original pole-setter Kent Paulson was a scratch, moving the No. 00 of Josh Amans to front spot. Amans took advantage and quickly darted out to the lead, where he would stay for the first seven laps. Second-heat-race-winner Clark Swartz was right on Amans’ tail, and jumped out front on lap eight. No sooner had Swartz taken over, than he was bested by Luck’s Chanda Fjorden Nord just one lap later. Fjorden Nord slowly stretched her lead while the battle for second was hotly contested.

Amans, Swartz, and current pointsleader Jeff Heintz would spend the rest of the race swapping lines and positions. In the end, Fjorden Nord scored the clean-sweep win, while Heintz gar-

Doug Gustafson was the WISSOTA Modified feature winner on Friday, Aug. 15, at Kopellah Speedway. – Photos submitted nered runner-up honors. Amans came home third, with Swartz in fourth and Scott Walker rounding out the five.

With just two points races remaining, the clean sweep brought Fjorden Nord to within five points of Heintz for the division championship.

Don Talmage Jr. quickly jumped from fourth to first in his No. 82 WISSOTA Super Stock. Talmage looked strong out front, holding back the likes of Greg Alling, John Remington and Dan Gullikson. The lineup changed dramatically after a lap five caution, however.

Gullikson had worked his way into third, and on the restart, Alling and Gullikson blasted around Talmage, with Gullikson taking over the point. It’s rare for Gullikson to give up the lead at his home track, and Friday was no exception. While the Stacy, Minn., hot shoe stretched his lead, the battle for third grew intense. With Alling settled into second, Cory Davis and Luke Strandlund duked it out side-by-side for the final six laps. Gullikson cruised to a comfortable win ahead of Alling, with Davis and Strandlund nipping at his heels. At the stripe, Strandlund edged Davis by mere inches to secure third place and Brent Kobs crossed the line fifth.

Jim Cimfl and Tony Gates paced the WISSOTA Modifieds to the final green flag of the night, but fourth-starting Doug Gustafson quickly sprinted to the front of the pack. Following right in his

LEADER S P O R T S S C O R E B O A R D SLOW-PITCH SOFTBALL

Siren Ballpark Women’s League

Team Chell Trucking/The Beehive Skol Bar Smith Family Eye Care Wizards Coyland Creek H Town Girls Mauer Construction

Overall 11-0 8-3 7-4 6-5 5-6 1-10 1-10

Scores

Monday, Aug. 18 Chell Trucking 16, Maurer Construction 1 Wizards 20, H Town Girls 12 Skol Bar 23, Coyland Creek 21

Siren Ballpark Men’s League

Team Sundown Chell Well Pour House 1 Hole in the Wall Century 21 Church League Team Fur, Fins & Feathers Pour House 2 Gjonnes Construction Da Crew

S

Overall 13-1 10-4 9-4 9-5 8-6 7-7 6-8 5-8 2-12 0-14

Scores

Wednesday, Aug. 13 Hole in the Wall 21, Da Crew 8 Pour House 2 17, Chell Well 16 Pour House 1 16, Gjonnes Construction 4 Church League Team 12, Sundown 8 Century 21 17, Fur, Fins & Feathers 7

FOOTBALL Upcoming

Friday, Aug. 22 4 p.m.

Grantsburg at Shell Lake scrimmage 5 p.m.

Luck at Barron scrimmage Unity hosting scrimmage St. Croix Falls at Clayton scrimmage 7 p.m.

Frederic at Clayton scrimmage

VOLLEYBALL Upcoming

Monday, Aug. 25 9 a.m.

Frederic at Clayton scrimmage 10 a.m.

Luck at Cameron scrimmage 5 p.m.

Grantsburg at Cameron triangular Tuesday, Aug. 26 5 p.m.

Unity at Rice Lake 7:30 p.m. Northwood at Frederic Webster at Birchwood Weyerhaeuser at Siren

tire track, sixth-starting Andy Miskowic was the early runner-up. Throttles were getting a workout all through the field as Scott Splittstoesser, Mike Kelly Jr., Miskowic and the red-hot Kevin Adams raced four-wide behind Gustafson at one point. Contact during that battle left the steering loose in the Adams ride, and the ill-handling No. 40 would ultimately bring out a caution for a spin in turn two. Sophomore pilot Miskowic clipped the front end of the spinning Adams car, ending the night for both drivers.

After the restart, first-heat-race-winner Jason Gross quickly moved up into second and searched in vain for a path around eventual winner Gustafson.

Scott Splittstoesser finished third ahead of Kelley and Cimfl. The win for Gustafson marked the first time since May 23 that a modified driver other than Buzzy Adams sat in victory lane at the end of the night, ending his consecutive streak at a Micheal Phelps-like eight wins.

The Kopellah Hornets started off the feature races with scary opening-lap rollover by Jason Christianson. His No. OK Ford was left battered and bruised, but Christianson gave a hearty wave to the crowd as he was towed pitside. On the restart, Tyler English jumped to the point with Kevin Bradwell tucked in behind. By lap four, Mike Raboin darted to the lead, leaving Damon Stusek, Bradwell and English wrestling for second. Stusek settled in as the runner-up during the last half of the race and finished there behind Raboin. Bradwell crossed the line third, ahead of Matt Skipper and Pamela Lutgen. By virtue of his third-place finish, Bradwell moved into a first-place tie with Lutgen for the season championship.

First-heat-race winner Austin Galloway and Skip Lutgen brought the Kopellah Pure Stocks to the green flag for their 15-lap feature. Third-starting Ben Johnson was scored the leader after the opening circuit and held the spot until Will Hargreaves took over on lap

three. Hargreaves held the point under considerable pressure from Danny Richards through the next 10 laps. With just two laps remaining, contact between the leaders sent Hargreaves spinning and bringing out the yellow flag. Richards was charged with the caution and sent tail end for the final two-lap sprint. Just as he had done in his heat race, Hargreaves held off a charging Travis Jehlicka to pick up his first career feature win in clean-sweep fashion. Galloway came home third with David Leaf and Steve Baker rounding out the top five.

The night was capped off with a pair of powder puff races. Stacy Brewer won the first race, and, jumping behind the wheel of her son’s No. 71H, Peggy Hargreaves parked Will’s blue Monte Carlo in victory lane for a second time.

Smiles were aplenty in the Hargreaves pit with a pair of trophies atop the trailered pure stock at night’s end.

The final regular season show is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 22, along with mechanics races after the event.

Then season champions will be crowned in all six divisions of Friday, Aug. 29, with the season wrapping up on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 1. Both Friday shows will start at 7:30 p.m. with a 7 p.m. draw cutoff. The Monday invitational will start 90 minutes earlier, at 6 p.m., with a 5:30 p.m. cutoff. For more information and current point standings, please visit the track’s Web site at www.kopellahspeedway.net.

Summary: Hornets, feature: Mike Raboin, Damon Stusek, Kevin Bradwell, Matthew Skipper, Pamela Lutgen, Brad Schramel, Doug Fick, Tyler English, Jason Christianson, Greg Johnson and Jon Fick.

Pure Stocks, feature: Will Hargreaves, Travis Jehlicka, Austin Galloway, David Leaf, Steve Baker, Michael Dyrdahl, Danny Richards, Krysta Swearingen, Skip Lutgen, Jesse Lutgen, Lance Halverson, Rodney Jacobson, Sonja Ellingson, Alec Nesbit, Kyle Finnegan, Mike Olson, Ben Johnson, Adam Delfosse, Fabian Jackson and Mindi Schill.

WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds, feature: Ryan Viltz, Ronnie Rihn, John Remington, Frank Soucek, Jimmy Latvala, Vince Corbin, Josh Bazey, Tim Swanson, Lucas Milz, Michael Haseltine, Gary Lamb, Ryan Nieters, Sampson Haseltine, Jake Miller, Kyle Matuska, Corey Fogelson and Doug Merrill.

WISSOTA Street Stocks, feature: Chanda FjordenNord, Jeff Heintz, Josh Amans, Clark Swartz, Scott Walker, Kyle Howland, Loren Swanson, Robert Lowe, Kent Paulson and Wesley Howland.

WISSOTA Super Stocks, feature: Dan Gullikson, Greg Alling, Luke Strandlund, Cory Davis, Brent Kobs, John Remington, Don Talmage Jr, Andrew Cimfl, Frank Fabio and Marcus Berget.

TENNIS

Upcoming

Friday, Aug. 22 4:15 p.m. Unity/Luck at Osceola Tuesday, Aug. 26 4:15 p.m. Barron at Unity

GIRLS GOLF Upcoming

Tuesday, Aug. 26 2:30 p.m. St. Croix Falls at Amery 3 p.m.

Luck/Unity at Amery

Ryan Viltz (3), Kyle Matuska (center) and Tim Swanson compete in the Midwest Modified feature. Viltz took first place overall.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

O UTDOORS INTER! COUNTY LEADER

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

Crash course at the Crex

It’s nothing like bowhunting whitetail, or anything like seeing a flock of mallards cupping their wings over a set of decoys. It can’t be compared to a weekMarty end of better-thanSeeger average walleye fishing either. But trapping, as I came to The learn last weekend, has a unique thread Bottom Line in the fabric of our outdoor heritage, and can provide lasting rewards and memories afield.

Of course, trapping is not for the weekend warrior, and, as Tony Kerner of Hayward put it, “You can’t be fair weather trapper; it’s a lot of hard work.”

Kerner should know. He’s a 70-something trapper with 60 years of trapping knowledge and experience. He was just one of several experienced trappers on hand for the two-day trapper-education course held at the Crex Meadows headquarters in Grantsburg. Close to 30 people signed up for the class, including seven youths, who were as enthusiastic as the guardians that brought them along. The course was not age specific, and a great learning experience for any age, whether they wanted to start trapping or not. I was told by a friend to give the class a try, even if I didn’t intend on trapping.

“Interesting,” he said about the class.

“It’s amazing how much you need to know.”

While that is true in some regards, you don’t need too much to get a start.

But if you’re in it for a total commitment, it can get pretty detailed.

Most students were in the class for the purpose of being able to trap this fall, while a small few were there for a personal and in-depth education about trapping. One student said afterward that it was a great way to see Crex Meadows, and I agreed. There’s plenty to take in when visiting Crex Meadows,

and that alone can make the experience worthwhile.

Another reason for taking the course is that, by law, the DNR requires you to take a trapper education course before you can legally trap in Wisconsin, unless you had purchased a trapping license prior to May of 1992. But, even for those that may not need to take a trapper-education course, it’s worth the time. Some students drove from as far away as Rice Lake, Cumberland and Dallas.

The course at Crex Meadows, has been going on for 13 years now, and over the past two years, it has seen a growing interest. Some of the instructors hinted toward the small rise in fur prices, which has piqued some interest, but for the most part, people don’t consider getting into trapping for the sole purpose of making money. That was evident with everyone who participated.

Trapping might have been a lucrative career 100 years ago, but most people were there for the simple reasons of enjoying nature. Hunters, anglers and trappers alike, all seemed to share at least some common ground for wanting to take the course.

On the first half of the day, students learned trapping history from wildlife technician Paul Peterson, who has 30plus years of trapping experience. He showed students the various fur-bearing species most commonly found in Wisconsin, and explained some of the reasons for why people trap. He explained the importance of ethics and explained that trapping is not always looked at in a positive light.

“Trapping can be targeted with falsehoods and misinformation,” Peterson said.

That point was stressed throughout the course, and for that reason, trappers have detailed regulations to ensure that animals are trapped humanely and ethically. All it takes is one mistake from an inexperienced or unethical trapper to ruin it for the majority who truly respect the traditions of trapping and follow the rules.

Conservation wardens Chris Spaight and Jesse Ashton and warden-recruit Cody Adams stopped by to talk to students about some of the regulations of

Future trappers were the first to gather at one of the box traps on the second day of the trapper education course.

Wildlife technician, Paul Peterson (L) and experienced trapper, Doug Vaksdahl set a few traps for muskrats on Crex Meadows as part of the trapper education course held Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 16-17 It was the first time in 13 years that no animals were actually caught, but the picturesque views of Crex Meadows made the experience special for those who participated. – Photos by Marty Seeger trapping. After a short presentation, the anyone. Sometimes that is part of the wardens answered several questions trapping experience. pertaining to the laws and changing Fortunately, previously trapped and methods. Spaight said that he regards road-killed animals were used in the trapping as one of his foremost pas- skinning demonstrations, including sions when he’s not on duty as a war- beaver, raccoon and an otter. It was a den. total trapping experience that made the After lunch, students learned about course complete. some of the tools and terminology of In the end, all who participated gradtrapping from Kerner, who displayed a uated the course with flying colors and wide variety of traps used for water a newfound knowledge of trapping. and upland trapping. It was an eye- For me, it began as a quest for knowlopening look at the varieties of equip- edge without intending to ever set my ment and techniques used. own trapline. But come fall and winter, Students then took to the Crex in hip I plan to give it a try, and I know there waders to get an up-close education on are about 30 others who share my how and where to set traps, primarily thoughts. for beaver, fox, raccoons and muskrats.

Seasons for trapping do not coincide with the summer, but wildlife technicians at Crex Meadows use trapping for management purposes, research and educational purposes. It ensures that people who intend to trap do it correctly and humanely.

After a long afternoon in the field, students were treated to a hearty spaghetti dinner, and each had look of accomplishment from a long day of learning how to trap.

That look of accomplishment was soon replaced the following morning with the look of anticipation as students went back to Crex Meadows to see what might have wandered into the traps set the day before. Unfortunately, each one turned up empty. It was the first time in 13 years that it had ever Tony Kerner shared 60 years of happened, but it didn’t seem to bother trapping knowledge and experience.

Disabilities deer hunt set for Oct. 4-12 Participants must register by Aug. 29 BALSAM LAKE – The annual deer hunt for hunters with disabilities is being set for Oct. 4-8, but those who wish to participate in the hunt must pre-

register by Friday, Aug 29. Hunters that have participated in previous years are already preregistered.

Guides, donated land, blinds, guns /ammo (if needed) are all provided.

Before the season begins, hunters will participate in an informational meeting/picnic, and sight in guns at the

Balsam Lake Rod and Gun Club. Times of the meeting will be announced at a later date.

The annual hunt is sponsored by the Polk County Sportsmen’s Club and the Wisconsin DNR. If you have a Class A disability permit, or know of anyone who is disabled and would like to join

this event, contact Dave or Ann Hraychuck by Friday, Aug. 29, at 715485-3362. – Marty Seeger with submitted information

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

Siren police report Aug. 7: Anthony Reynolds, Siren, was cited for theft for not returning five movies checked out from the Siren Auto Stop.

Reynolds had been warned to return these movies in a letter from Siren Police Chief Chris Sybers.

Kelly Swanson, Siren, reported damage to the door of a shed on rental property at 7657 Cemetery Road.

Swanson asked for extra patrol in the area.

Aug. 8: Scott E. Endicott, 33, Apple Valley, Minn., was cited for failing to yield from a stop sign at the intersection of

Burnett Co. marriage licenses

First Avenue and Main Street at 5:30 p.m. The officer on duty witnessed another vehicle, which had the right of way, having to slow down rapidly while turning north, to avoid a collision.

Aug. 11: Letters went out to Diane Hillyard, Luck; Richard Westling, Almena; and Violet Reynolds, Webster, regarding overdue movies taken out from Lightning Video. The three have until Aug. 22 to return the movies/make arrangements to return them, or charges of theft will be filed.

Aug. 12: A juvenile was charged with trespass, theft and criminal property damage in incidents involving property belonging to his father, mother and cousin. Social Services

was notified.

Brandon Belisle, 27, Webster, was picked up on a warrant at 7 p.m. in the Pour House parking lot.

Aug. 14: Christine Damman, Siren, was sent a letter from the police chief regarding two movies she took out from Siren Auto Stop and has not returned. She has until Aug. 22 to return/make arrangements to return the movies or be charged with theft.

Burnett County criminal court Dustin J. Breitner, 20, Mound, Minn., obstructing or resisting an officer, $249.00.

Sharon L. Fossum, 52, Grantsburg, OWI, $677.00, license revoked six months, alcohol assessment.

Cynthia A. Hageman, 49, St. Paul, Minn., theft, three-year probation, $7,175.50 restitution, $830.55; issue worthless check, three-year probation, $90.00 restitution, $88.00.

Robert J. Sunderland, 35, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $309.00.

Daniel F. Gapinski, 68, Hinckley, Minn., issue worthless check, $309.00.

Renae A. Davis, 47, South St. Paul, Minn., issue worthless check, $18.43 restitution, $231.43.

Jon G. Isker, 41, Grantsburg, criminal trespass to dwelling, $249.00.

Danielle L. Lemieux, 30, Webster, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Robin Johnson, 28, Siren, OWI, $1,209.00, two-year probation, sent. Withheld, license revoked two years, 60-day jail sentence, Huber release granted, alcohol assessment.

Anthony L. Aarseth, New Brighton, Minn., and Sarah A. Roman, New Brighton, Minn., Aug. 12.

Denneth F. Gillette III, Maplewood, Minn., and Kristy A. McNitt, Maplewood, Minn., Aug. 15.

Michael E. Swenson, West Marshland, and Wendy S. Horky, West Marshland, Aug. 15.

Steven J. Puttbrese, 15, Webster, July 30.

Shirley L. Meade, 49, St. Paul Park, Minn., July 30.

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Polk County civil court AnchorBank, FSB vs. John M. Wright, St. Croix Falls and Elizabeth Anderson, Lindstrom, Minn. Foreclosure of mortgage, $25,790.94.

AnchorBank, FSB vs. John Wright a/k/a J.M. Wright a/k/a John M. Wright, St. Croix Falls and Elizabeth Anderson, Lindstrom , Minn. Foreclosure of mortgage, $85,467.65.

HSBC Bank Nevada, N.A. S/I/I to Direct Merchants Credit Card Bank, N.A. vs.

Dale Harvieux. Money judgment, $8,867.54.

Washington Mutual Bank vs. Jileen G. Marquardt, Cottage Grove, Minn., and John

Doe and unknown tenants, Dresser. Foreclosure of mortgage, $151,573.68.

M & I Marshall & Ilsley Bank vs. Thomas A. Smolinksi and Stephanie A. Smolinski and John Doe, tenant. Foreclosure of mortgage, $79,859.67.

Wilson Mutual Insurance Company vs. Amanda K. Warwas, Frederic. Money judgment, $22,501.76.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. vs.

Tina M. Dixon and John Doe Dixon , Frederic. Foreclosure of mortgage, $147,803.65.

JP Morgan Acquisition Corporation c/o PHH Mortgage Corporation vs.

Donald J. Gamer, and Jeanne M. Gamer, St. Croix Falls.

Foreclosure of mortgage, $185,344.93.

Discover Bank vs. Kimberly K. Larson, Dresser. Money judgment, $11,552.99.

Discover Bank vs. Michael J. Curtis, Amery. Money judgment, $7,713.08.

Marshfield Clinic vs.

Joshua Pederson and Julie Pederson, Clear Lake . Money judgment, $5,713.96.

FIA Services, N.A. vs. Chris E. Bowers, Dresser. Money judgment, $10,331.03.

Polk County divorces Divorces granted Terry L. Reule and Martha J. Dolny. Married 1979, no minor children.

Jason F. Gouker and Jennifer L. Gouker. Married 1999, two minor children.

James R. Baker and Kelly L. Baker. Married 2003, one minor child.

Darren L. Dunsmoor and Ashley V. Dunsmoor. Married 2005, one minor child.

Scott. B. Radman and Stacey L. Radman. Married 2001, one minor child.

Lawrence A. Podritz and Lynette M. Reischel-Podritz.

Married 1990, three minor children.

Timothy C. Gray and Julie A. Gray. Married 2004, no minor children.

Daniel J. Lundgren and Diane M. Lundgren. Married 1980, no minor children.

Dean C. Koehler and Sherolyn J. Koehler. Married 1994, three minor children.

Jason G. Klugow and Christina R. Klugow. Married 2000, two minor children.

Divorces filed Cara Gaudette, Comstock, and James Gaudette, Turtle Lake . Married 1982, no minor children.

Rona K. Peterson, and Dean Peterson, Osceola.

Married 1983, one minor child.

Jessamine E. Tourville and Chad A. Tourville, Balsam Lake. Married 2007, one minor child.

Polk County criminal court Felonies Samantha M. Zelinski, 38, Balsam Lake. forgery, 13 counts credit card - fraudulent use, credit card by acquisition.

Signature bond set $1,000.

Moria L. Thayer, 26, Centuria, failure to act/sexual assault of child. Signature bond set, $5,000. Initial appearance on Sept. 15.

Tyler W. Larson, 21, Star Prairie, vehicle operator flee/elude officer, OWI. Cash bond set, $5,000. Final pretrial on Oct. 17.

Misdemeanors Molly S. Ziegler, 28, Deer Park, fraud, tapping of wires,

meters/pipes. Signature bond set, $500. Final pretrial on Sept.

19.

Daniel J. Skalicky, 48, Luck, domestic disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Derek J. Hanson, 19, Amery, resisting or obstructing an officer, disorderly conduct, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia. Cash bond set, $650. Adjourned, initial appearance Sept. 8.

Travis E. Dennstedt, 25, Maple Grove, Minn., possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia. Signature bond set, $1,000. Adjourned, initial appearance Sept. 15.

Dennis R. Hannah, 20, Milltown, disorderly conduct, resisting or obstructing an officer. Signature bond set, $1,000.

Adjourned, initial appearance Sept. 15.

Richard Mueller, 44, Milltown, two counts disorderly conduct. Review on Sept. 15.

Matthew D. Anderson, 33, Dresser, disorderly conduct, domestic abuse. Cash bond set, $150. Adjourned, initial appearance on Sept. 15.

Thomas H. Madsen, 42, Cushing, disorderly conduct.

Cash bond set, $150. Final pretrial Oct. 17.

Burnett County sheriff’s report Accidents Aug. 8: David L. Lewallan, 31, Plymouth, Ind., was eastbound on Hwy. 77 when he reportedly served to miss a deer and lost control of the vehicle.

There were no reported injuries, but severe damage to the vehicle.

Aug. 9: Gary R. Kern, 61, Danbury, was westbound on Bushey Road when he reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree. The driver was transported by ambulance for injuries. The driver was issued a citation for inattentive driving.

The vehicle was towed.

Aug. 14: Teri A Zembal, 34, Webster, was westbound on CTH FF when she lost control of her vehicle negotiating a curve.

She reported that she swerved to miss a deer. No injuries were reported and the vehicle was towed. The driver was issued two citations.

Arrests Aug. 12: Christopher Glonek, 35, Grantsburg, was arrested on a Burnett County warrant.

Aug. 13: Darrick D. Suckow, 22, Spooner, was arrested for a probation violation and issued a citation for speeding and OAR. Aug. 17: Timothy M. Steele, 44, Stacy, Minn., was arrested on a Burnett County warrant.

Incidents Aug. 8: Six mailboxes along Viola Lake Lane were reported damaged.

It was not fully apparent how the boxes were

damaged. The incident is under investigation.

Aug. 11: Polk Burnett Electric Co-op reported cooper electrical wire taken from a residence on CTH A. The Burnett County Sheriff’s Department contacted the owner who advised that the wires and additional copper was taken about one month ago.

The incident is under investigation.

Aug. 13: Margaret A. Lundeen, Frederic, reported a 5foot by 5-foot rock that weighted over 1,000 pounds taken from about 30 feet off the road. The incident is under investigation.

Aug. 15: Robert E. Phelps, Danbury reported his mailbox and post stolen. The box was found one-half mile into Minnesota along the side of the road. The box was flattened, and it appeared that it was run over by a vehicle. The incident is under investigation.

Notices / Employment Polk Co. marriage licenses Katharine Bacia Moore, 26, Columbus, Ohio, and Kristopher Makle Lewis, 28, Columbus, Ohio, Aug. 11.

Pamela Ann Clark, 39, St. Croix Falls, and Richard Omanwa Orina, 48, Minneapolis, Minn., Aug. 11.

Gina Lesley Warner, 29, Boulder, Colo., and John David Clemmons, 32, Boulder, Colo., Aug. 12.

Wilda Roberta Brouhard, 53, Apple River, and Richard James Kellogg, 47, Apple River, Aug. 12.

Katie Frances Kuhl, 24, Lincoln, and Nicholas Duane Lauterbach, 26, Clayton, Aug. 13.

Jennifer Lindsey Meyers, Hastings, Minn., and Christopher Matthew Allen, 30, Hastings, Minn., Aug. 14.

Billie Jo Stokes, 36, Clayton, and Kevin Milo Clark, 37, Clayton, Aug. 15.

Ashley Ann Hubert, 23, Lincoln, and Brady James Emerson, 24, Lincoln, Aug. 15.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Notices / Employment

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

Notices / Employment

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

Notices

Ignite concert

A large crowd gathered Saturday evening at Crooked Lake Park in Siren for the annual Ignite concert, a venue of Christian music which this year featured nationally known BarlowGirl, LightSwitch and the Holy Spittaz.

Lauren Barlow is the drummer for BarlowGirl.

BarlowGirl is a Christian rock band made up of three sisters, Lauren, Alyssa and Rebecca Barlow from Elgin, Ill. They started out by traveling across the country as a backup band for their dad. Their mom and dad are now their managers as they travel to play many major festivals this summer.

On Saturday, Aug. 16, they appeared as the headliner at Crooked Lake Park in Siren. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Merchandise and CDs were available for fans to purchase during the concert.

With his ear protection in, this young man had a good view of the concert, thanks to a strong pair of shoulders.

Ignite crew members make the annual concert run smoothly. This was the first year the concert was held at Crooked Lake Park in Siren.

All star cast of woodwinds

The woodwind section of the Dan Zimmer Polk Band, which performed at the annual Oktoberfest in Danbury last Saturday, Aug. 16, includes some wellknown local musicians, and now, at least one nationall known comedienne. Mary Mack (center), also known as 1993 Webster High School graduate Miki Budge, kept her promise to her former band teacher, Dan Zimmer, to return to play one of her favorite gigs despite a busy summer of touring West Coast comedy clubs. Her fame comes on the heels of appearances on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” and Comedy Central’s “Live at Gotham.” The folk humorist, a former music teacher and polka band leader, is the daughter of Jan and Mike Budge. A feature story “Laughing at ourselves with Mary Mack,” appeared in a June issue of the Leader. More on her rising career can be found on the Web at marymackcomedy.com. Also shown (L to R) are music teachers Bryn Riley (Siren) and Julie Strang (Webster), Jonathan Preus (St. Paul and Webster) and Patti Burns, music teacher at Frederic. More photos of the Oktoberfest can be found in the Currents section. - Photo by Gary King

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - AUGUST 20, 2008

S m i t h i n g s k i l l s at A l mel u n d , M i n n .

The 52nd-annual Almelund Threshing Show held Aug. 8-10 in Almelund, Minn., featured demonstrations by a skilled blacksmith. The smith building the small ornamental chest shown above has over 300 hours of labor already invested and still has to rivet the parts, attach the corners, finish and install the handmade hidden lock before it's complete. In the photo at left, the smith’s hammer strikes the heated metal. As legend has it, the Almelund Threshing Show, which offers main attractions of steam-powered threshing demonstrations and a steam-powered sawmill, got its start in 1955 when Almelund resident Everett Nelson saw an ad in the local paper about a farmer from Amery who invited people to his farm to see him thresh his stacked grain with steam power. Nelson went to see the demonstration and returned home with the idea of starting a similar event in Almelund. The Almelund event has been held on the second weekend of every August on a field seven miles northwest of Taylors Falls on Hwy. 95. Besides the demonstrations, it offers a display of tractors, steam engines and live music. - Photos by John Reed

Be a t l e s t r i b u t e s h o w c o m i n g

J o y v al N e l s o n au c t i o n

An auction at the Joyval Nelson farm in the town of Franconia, Minn., near Taylors Falls last Saturday provided many people a chance to look over 50 tractors, sulky and gang plows, potato and tree planters, chains and other items that amassed in Nelson’s collection. “With the passing of Mr. Nelson, it was time for the next generation to spring into the seat of an old MM, JD, AC or Fordson,” wrote one person who was in attendance.

A steel-wheeled Oliver tractor will makes its way to the White Pine Logging and Threshing Show in McGrath, Minn., to be held Labor Day weekend. Some of the items will be put to work and some will become lawn ornaments. Others will be sold for scrap. - Special photos On Feb. 9, 1964, America was introduced to a phenomenon that ultimately changed rock ‘n’ roll forever. The Beatles were “born,” and music would never be the same. At the St. Croix Casino in Turtle Lake on Sunday, Oct. 5, return to the Beatles era with the Britins. Recreating the Beatles era in both music and costume, the Britins play and sing everyone’s favorite Fab Four hits from “Love Me Do” to “Yesterday” to “Let It Be.” To make their performance even more true to life, the Britins use authentic Beatles gear throughout their entire show. Tickets for The Britins Beatles Tribute Show go on sale on Tuesday, Sept. 2. The $20 ticket price includes dinner and the show. Dinner will be served at 4 p.m. followed by the show at 5 p.m. For tickets, call St. Croix Casino marketing at 800-846-8946 or stop by the casino gift shop. – Special photo

‘Follow the Leader’

Currents N O R T H E R N

Aug us t 2 0, 20 08 2nd Se ct io n B I nt er-C o unt y Lead er

News and views from the Northwest Wisconsin community

High expectations met in Suzhou, China

by Priscilla Bauer SUZHOU, CHINA - Suzhou has been called Heaven on Earth, the Venice of China, so my expectations of seeing this centuries-old city teeming culture and great tranquility were high.

But as we entered the city with a population of 6 million what I found was a modern metropolis, teeming with construction, noise and high rises.

About an hour and a half drive from Shanghai, Suzhou is located on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the shores of Lake Taihu in China's Jiangsu providence. The city is renowned for its bridges, pagodas and ancient gardens which make it a popular tourist attraction. It is also the center for China's silk industry.

Finding the old culture among the city's haste to modernize was at times frustrating. Road building projects seemed to be around every corner with work going on day and night making for one continual traffic jam of cars, bicycles and scooters which were everywhere (with their own lanes on all or most of Suzhou's very modern road system). We quickly learned if you want to get somewhere fast, the old saying of "When in Suzhou" applies.

My girlfriend and I had come to Suzhous to visit her daughter, a teacher at Suzhou Singapore International School.

Since coming to Suzhou a year ago, it hadn't taken her long to adapt to the local mode of transportation. She was now a scooter owner, and so we borrowed another scooter and all hopped on scooting off to see the sights.

Our first stop was the market where fresh vegetables and fruits, many of which we had never heard of much less tasted, were plentiful and could be purchased by us for a pittance.

It was a fascinating place where getting a fresh chicken meant picking out a live one and having it butchered right in front of you.

All of which didn't seem quite so distasteful after seeing the live eel tank or all the different parts of the pig on display. We didn't get any eel or pig's feet, opting instead for some mangos and bananas (fruits we knew) and a few exotic ones that proved to be delicious.

The next attraction we were headed to was too far into the old city for a scooter ride, so we parked them and took a taxi cab to the North Temple Pagoda. Considered to be the No. 1 pagoda in southern China, it was built during the times of Wu Chi, in the Wu Kingdom (238~251A.D.) also known as the Three Kingdoms Period. King Sun Quan asked workmen to build it and named it Tongxuan Temple.

The temple was destroyed and rebuilt many times during the course of history, until the period of Emperor Shaoxin of Southern Song Dynasty (1153A.D.) when the pagoda was rebuilt by Master Da Yuan naming it "North Pagoda." The pagoda was rebuilt several times during the Yuan, Ming and Ch'ing Dynasty, and today is one Suzhou's most popular attractions. The 7-meters-high pagoda is an octagon shaped structure with all the floors and angles placed in order.

Graceful corridors outside the pagoda, are said to "give it a great deal of boldness of vision,” which have made it the most famous pagoda of South China.

See High expectations, page 31

The author climbed the 11 stories at the North Temple Pagoda to get a panoramic view of the city of Suzhou.

The North Temple Pagoda, shown in the photo at left, is one of Suzhou’s most popular tourist attractions.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

The author gets a scooter ride with friend and driver, Cindy Stewart.

Scooters are the popular mode of transportation for getting around in Suzhou, where traffic jams are common.

Walking Street is a popular tourist stop in Suzhou with its many shops, restaurants and clubs.

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

A ttention!

Attention

Illegal selling of lakes

Wisconsin lakeshore owners. You do not own the natural lake you see.

You may be one of the thousands of property owners across the state who have been sold lake land you cannot legally buy and do not own.

Perhaps your dream home or getaway cabin sits by a lovely lake, and you look out and think: This slice of heaven is mine.

Sadly, it is not.

The fact is, no matter what you see out your window; no matter how much you paid; no matter what your real estate agent said; no matter what your deed reads; the legal fact is: You cannot and do not own the lake.

Nonetheless, lake land is being bought and sold all the time. But the lakes are public land. And it is illegal to buy them – and impermissible to pay taxes on them.

Free water “The water belongs to the state…and the natural lakebeds belong to the state,” said Edwina Kavanaugh, an attorney with the Department of Natural Resources.

Her legal position descends from the highest state law.

According to the Wisconsin Constitution, Article IX § 1, all natural lakes are “forever free” and held in public trust; they belong to the people. So selling them should never happen.

“It happens quite a bit, actually,” said Dan Harrington, water management specialist with the DNR. The state owns all the natural lakes, big or small. Yet this public property is being illegally sold to an unsuspecting public all the time. Tens of thousands of people across the state are being sold a bill of goods.

“It sounds to me like they’re buying the Brooklyn Bridge,” said Don Marjala, a real estate attorney. “I’ve been doing this for 32 years now, and I know of no one who has (legally) bought a lake,” he said.

“A lake that’s navigable… it’s public land up to the high-water mark,” he said. “You can’t buy it; you can’t sell it.”

Do nothing DNR But despite what the law of the land says, public lakes are constantly being sold under the state’s watchful eye. And the DNR is doing little to nothing to protect Mr. and Mrs. Buyer.

“What is important to landowners is the department (DNR) recognized the problem,” said Sen. Dale Schultz. They must be, “willing to be a full partner, and are willing to begin the process of working through this issue.”

Two years ago, I first wrote about this process of selling public-lake lands.

Since then it has generated a lot of media and legislative attention. And now it even got the DNR involved, demanding a column update.

Despite repeated attempts, DNR Secretary Matthew Frank could not be reached for a live interview. However he did respond to a formal, senatorial request.

In a response letter to Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, Frank, wrote: “I share your interest in helping protect other buyers from similar situations.”

And he acknowledged the buying of public-lake lands does “occasionally occur.”

Occasionally?

The DNR estimates there are “approximately 11,500 lakes less than 20 acres.”

These were not meandered (surveyed) in the original government survey. It is safe to say that folks living at these 11,500 places across 72 counties have a property problem.

Local examples I know of several examples in Polk County alone.

Four years ago I bought 16 acres, adjoining Young Lake – a beautiful unmeandered lake of 30 acres.

After a review of my deed and county-survey markers, it was revealed that I was illegally sold 12 acres of the lake. I con- Wayne M. tacted the selling re- Anderson altor. Their lawyers reviewed my case The and refunded me Anderson $12,200.

My neighbors on Report Little Pine Lake are in the same quagmire.

James and Cheryle Nesser own nearly 60 acres, which border Little Pine Lake.

Last year they subdivided their property and had it surveyed. It was revealed that some 15 acres they bought were in the lake; property they were illegally sold and public land they were impermissibly paying taxes on.

Government records show that from 2007 to 2008, the Nessers will now save $431.58 on their property taxes after the public-lake property was reassessed and correctly removed from their property description, said Amanda Nissen, Polk County treasurer.

The Nessers’ neighbor across the lake is in a similar fix.

In 1992, a parcel of land of 100 feet by 750 feet was purchased in good faith.

But it turns out “there’s more under water than isn’t,” said the owner, Dr. Phillip Keezer, an advisor for Campus Crusade for Christ International.

He estimates 400 feet of the real estate deal he was sold is out in the lake, which is “the majority” of his property.

This was no mistake. His real estate agent gave him a “sketch of the property, which clearly showed it is in the lake.” And then assured him, “it’s good that you have that (property) under water, because then you have enough (shoreline) to rebuild if you need to,” Dr. Keezer recalls.

After a history of 16 years on Little Pine Lake, Dr. Keezer looks out across the lake and at his neighbors and surmises: “I’m sure everybody owns property in the lake.”

The question for him and tens of thousands of others is: “Why didn’t the realtor know?” Dr. Keezer asks. And, “why did he sell it to me?”

Knowledge key The answer is knowledge.

“They may not have understood the lake was not meandered,” said Duane Wisse, a realtor-broker with Edina Realty in Frederic. “If it’s not meandered and it goes out into the lake and the deeds are drawn that way, the broker goes by what the deed says.”

Realtors are more “unsuspecting” than “incompetent,” Wisse said. The training and testing they get from the state on this lake matter is practically zilch.

Wisconsin proudly boasts of 15,081 documented lakes, with an estimated

Dr. Phillip Keezer stands on his dock on Little Pine Lake. He was sold lakeshore property in 1992, most of which is under water.

Young Lake in Polk County. Wayne Anderson was refunded $12,200 on a real-estate deal, involving 12 acres under water that were sold to him. – Photos by Wayne M. Anderson 11,500 undocumented lakes of 20 acres or less. There are thousands more between 30 and 40 acres. The total number is huge and the lakes are everywhere and obvious.

Yet when Wisse took his state exam in 1975 “there was nothing on it” regarding the selling of public-lake lands. And after 33 years in the business, he’s never encountered the topic in any state-mandated continuing-education class.

“I don’t think you could say that (lake questions) are common” on the test, said Barbara Showers, director of the Office of Education and Exams, Department of Regulation and License in 2006.

“There has started to be interest in this area, so I think we will try to work a question in at least,” said the now-retired director.

However this year, “we did go through our entire item bank with subject matter experts,” said Susan Bird, of the department of regulation. “They went through and made sure that all the questions are up-to-date for the current exam.”

And is there any question on the exam about the vast and widespread selling of public-lake lands?

“I’m not sure,” she said.

Solution with state The solution to the lake problem does not lie with the buyers—they’re victims, buying in good faith.

The solution lies with the owner.

The state has claimed all the natural lakes through a long series of legal fights and court rulings. They’ve spent years and years and millions and millions in tax dollars to scour the land and grab all of the lake property.

Now that they’ve got what they worked so hard for, they say they can’t afford the time and money to take care of business.

“Completing formal surveys of each lake would cost approximately $11.4 million,” wrote DNR Secretary Matthew Frank. Besides, it would, “require hiring or redirecting 40 staff, and take four years to complete.”

Asking the state to spend an average of $991.30 to take care of its property, which encumbers thousands of people’s deeds, which was illegally sold, which people are impermissibly paying taxes on every year, is just too much to ask.

But it’s not too much to ask of the public.

“Buyers who unknowingly purchase state-owned lakebed may have legal recourse against parties in the transaction,” wrote DNR Secretary Matthew Frank.

DNR responsibility It’s the DNR’s responsibility to get their lake land out of people’s land deeds—not the other way around. Yet they suggest the burden be on simple people to sue their neighbors to make DNR matters right.

“You have to litigate to determine your rights?” asked Sen. Schultz. “It’s just insulting.”

And it’s bad public relations.

“The (DNR) agency wonders why they have the public relations problem that they have,” said Sen. Schultz.

“What they have to do is deal rightly with people on issues that are important—and this is a classic example.”

The DNR does offer some out-of-court solutions: check out their Web site, addendums to real estate documents, updating platting laws and more survey training.

The DNR also wonders if a local assessor can go out and simply separate land from water and make things right.

“I know certified surveys are not cheap,” said DNR chief biologist Byron Dale Simon. “And I’m just struggling with, is it reasonable to require somebody” to get an expensive survey. Or can a local town assessor, “make an assessment based upon what you see in the field?”

It’s obvious if you buy 16 acres and only four is above the water that the other 12 must be under the water. Right?

Maybe.

Not the assessor “The assessor does not change the legal description of property,” said Jessica Iverson, Department of Revenue spokesperson. “The assessor uses whatever is in that legal description to determine the value, not the other way around.”

This statewide problem is being shuffled from one state agency to another, while the public gets the shaft. It’s a bureaucratic “cop out,” said Sen. Schultz.

“That’s not unusual for agencies that don’t want to be bothered,” he said.

“That’s a game that is often-time played with the Legislature.”

Games played Games aside, the problem remains.

“When government has done something inappropriately, it shouldn’t take using your own personal resources to correct it,” said Sen. Harsdorf.

“The real problem here is you have an agency that does not want to do something,” she said. “And that’s going to be the challenge.”

Besides the DNR being problematic, “the administration needs to get on board, being willing to begin to assess the situation,” she added.

After I called and assessed the situation for Gov. Jim Doyle’s office, the response was: “We’ll get back with you,” said Carla Vigue, media spokesperson.

They never got back with me.

People waiting Meanwhile, tens of thousands in Wisconsin are waiting and looking to the governor for some help. His signature in any legislative bill is vital.

“First and foremost, the governor has to be willing to sign it,” said Harsdorf.

“You still need the governor’s support.”

For now the DNR’s budget forecast sees no money “available for this work,” stated DNR Secretary Matthew Frank.

That leaves innocent people who were illegally sold public-lake land, are being sold lake land, and in the future will buy lake land, a bill of wet goods.

And to make matters worse, all those folks keep paying taxes on land they do not and cannot own.

This is a steady stream of illegal tax revenue the state may not want to give up.

••• You can discuss lake issues with Wayne at: wayneanderson@centurytel.net or visit him on his Web site: www.theandersonreport.com.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Sometimes you just have to take a minute, step back, and try to figure out what the heck is happening. This is one of those times in my life. It seems there is so much going on I am not sure just where I am and/or what day it is.

No kidding, I went to a seminar last week on the wrong day. Dumb, dumb, dumb. I have been working with some great people from the Restorative Justice Community Service program, trying to get ready for our huge rummage and bake sale (for which we need donations) that is being held on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 29 and 30, at the Webster Community Center. (Note the little plug for our fundraiser for Christmas for Kids and special projects Interfaith Caregivers has going on.) This sorting and packing is no easy task. We have donated clothes, shoes, glassware and everything you can imagine. Since we are no longer associated with the Pines Thrift Store, donations have been coming to our house. We still need donations and baked goods and those can be delivered on Thursday, Aug. 28 or Friday morning, Aug. 29.

All of this sorting is so the sale will be done in an orderly fashion on the first day of the sale. The second day may be a little less orderly, but we will do our best. In the meantime, I am trying to take care of people we work with

in Interfaith Caregivers and answering questions and requests that come into the information and referral lines. I have a house to take care of, a husband and father-in-law to cook, wash and clean for (don’t I Blodgett sound like a martyr) and I am just a little overwhelmed. Oh, yes, I would love to sneak a peek at the Olympics now and then, but all I ever get to see is women’s beach volleyball.

Now don’t misunderstand me. That is probably truly a sport and it seems the young ladies, who wear nearly nothing and play it, are doing a great job. I think we, the USA took the gold, so at least they are good at what they are doing. What happened to gymnastic, track and field, and all that other stuff.

I guess I have to stay up later than 8 p.m. to see those. Are golf and baseball an Olympic sport? Honestly, I don’t know. If they are, I have missed then too.

Now that I have spoken about

Barb

Caregiver's

Gifts

Restorative Justice, I honestly don’t know what we would do without the help of that program. We have had the chance to work with some great, hardworking ladies and men. Denny, Interfaith and I often wonder where we would be without them. I also have to mention the boys from Northwest Passage. They too have been terrific and again, I am not sure what we would do without their help.

I also forgot to mention, I take care of our animals. We have two cats, Misty a sleek black cat that can come from nowhere at a moment’s notice. Mittens is our “older” cat and weighs 25 lbs.

Her main objective is to sit right in front of our baby, Bitzy, and cause her to go crazy because she can’t move around her. Bitzy is an Imperial shih tzu and weighs 3-1/2 lbs. and is full grown, although she looks like a tiny toy, she has an attitude and although she is not yet a year old, thinks she runs the place. CiCi is our bichon frise. She is 9 years old and is queen of the house (which makes me her maid). I have friends who have pigs, goats, chickens and various other pets, but I like to keep ours to the standard cat and dog type.

There you have it, my family. Of course we have five children and nine grandchildren who are the smartest

most handsome, cutest and most beautiful in the world. Yes, I am a proud parent and grandparent. I have earned every gray hair and wrinkle that come with the title.

I just realize I have gone from one thought to another without even thinking about it. I hope you can keep up with me.

I was listening to someone tell me about their children and grandchildren. Her children are my age or older and grandchildren are all established in careers and married so there are greatgrandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. The stories were wonderful and I wish I had known them all. What a wonderful family. A reunion would consist of so many people, I cannot imagine. If you have a family story, call me. I would love to hear it. I suppose I have opened a can of worms, but I truly love hearing stories told by older people.

Well, my friends, back to my sorting and our rummage sale. The date is at the top of this article so I won’t go through all of that again, but I didn’t mention that the time is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday.

Hope to see you there and until we meet again, God bless.

Was Jesse James in Grantsburg? Siren? Shell Lake?

by John Koblas BURNETT/WASHBURN COUNTIES - On Sept. 7, 1876, members of the notorious James-Younger Gang robbed the First National Bank in Northfield, Minn.

With the Iowa and Nebraska borders heavily patrolled, and the rest of the gang either killed or captured, it remains a mystery even today how Frank and Jesse James were able to elude posses comprising the largest manhunt in U. S. history.

In July 1913, however, a former outlaw turned up at a mission in Los Angeles, Calif., later claiming to be Bill Stiles, one of the Northfield robbers, believed killed during the holdup attempt. Although given little credibility, Stiles maintained he was not one of the two desperadoes cut down in the street, but he freely admitted his participation in the affair.

During the flight from Northfield, Stiles said he drew upon his knowledge of the Wisconsin timberlands and led the gang, not south, but northeast, into the Big Woods. He said he guided Jesse and Frank James to Grantsburg, and the area around Siren. The first Native Americans in Burnett County had been the Sioux, but they had been driven out by the Chippewa. After stopping in Grantsburg, the three outlaws moved on to Clam Lake, and then to a band of Chippewa at Yellow River. Stiles allegedly referred to the Native Americans as a "bad lot" because many renegade whites from Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin and Illinois lived with them.

There were, however, good whites like Trader Carlson at Trade Lake, who spoke the Chippewa language and always treated them fairly.

According to Stiles, he and the James brothers made their way to Shell Lake and Chief Chinaway's village. Stiles had once saved the chief's life from scalp hunters, so the grateful chief had some

women tend to the trio's wounds. As their condition slowly improved, Jesse and Frank laid plans to rebuild the gang with new personnel and conduct raids in Texas. Chippewa runners informed the bandits that Pinkerton agents were searching relentlessly for them throughout Minnesota and Missouri. Jesse had sprouted a black beard, Frank sandy-colored whiskers, but Stiles, despite being 26 years old, could not grow facial hair except for a mustache.

When they reached Chinaway's camp, Stiles was in the worst shape, although all three suffered multiple wounds. The cantle of his saddle was soggy with blood, which caused the seat of his pants to stick to the saddle. Squaws removed the buckshot from his back, first heating their knives before using the sharp points to cut into the skin. His infection was treated with kinnickinnic (wild tobacco), which was chewed, made into poultices and rubbed into the wounds.

Frank and Jesse were treated in the same way.

Stiles learned later that during the operation he had passed out and remained unconscious for three days. The tribal medicine man used magic on him, and when he awoke, a pretty Chippewa girl named White Fawn was mopping sweat from his face. Said Stiles, "I never saw anything more beautiful in my life!"

Jesse's wounds healed more quickly than Frank's or Bill's and he paced back and forth through the camp like a caged animal. As cruel as Jesse could be, Stiles called him "a home-loving man" and it was obvious to Stiles that Jesse wanted to go home to Missouri. Frank's leg, meanwhile, had healed somewhat, although he walked with a limp. Stiles' back was scabbed but there was no sign of infection. White Fawn carefully padded the buckskin with a soft moss so his shirt would not rub against his shoul-

Main Street of Grantsburg in 1876. - Special photos

Jesse James ders. The wounds hurt Stiles most when he lifted his arms, and he refrained from the act whenever possible.

In October, after a month at Chinaway's camp, Jesse crawled out of his blankets on a cold, windy morning and announced he was going home. Frank and Bill attempted to talk him out of it, but Jesse was adamant. The squaws filled their saddlebags with jerky and parched corn. After thanking the Indians, the boys rode out of camp with only Jesse in high spirits. Upon reaching Missouri (Stiles did not elaborate upon the route they had taken), Stiles said he spent a few hours with the brothers in St. Joseph, then left to stay with friends in Independence, promising to meet them in the spring. The friends he referred to included Bill Ryan and Bill (not Jim) Cummings. But Stiles stayed too long and missed the gang when they rode out of St. Joseph.

Stiles rode first to Oklahoma in search of the James gang, and then traveled on to Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. He rejoined the gang in Missouri after Jesse

and Frank had returned from Mexico.

Among the new members of the gang were Jim Cummins, Ed Miller, Wood Hite, Bill Ryan, Tucker Bassham, Dick Liddel and one other man he did not identify. Stiles remained with the gang until Jesse's death at the hands of Bob Ford.

Following Jesse's death in 1882, Stiles contended he and Bill Ryan rode to Creede, Colo., together to kill Bob Ford but found Ed O'Kelly had beaten them to it. As the gang slowly disintegrated, Stiles returned to the Big Woods of Wisconsin where he lived with the Native Americans, once again, for several weeks. The Chippewa bestowed upon Stiles the name "The Wolf," likening him to the timber wolves, which travel alone except in mating season.

At Chinaway's village, Stiles married White Fawn, the girl who had nursed his wounds in 1876, under Native American rites and they spent the winter together.

In the spring, White Fawn, pregnant with Stiles' child, was killed by a jealous Native American. The angry Chippewa had meant to shoot the outlaw but hit White Fawn in the breast instead. Stiles pulled both his hip guns and shot the brave in the face, killing him instantly.

Berserk with rage, Stiles raced into the forest and shot the Native Americans who had accompanied his wife's killer on his mission of death. Stiles then returned to the white man's world.

Was Stiles telling the truth? Perhaps we'll never know.

Frank James

Selin PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

Sand carp I grew up as a Jack Pine Savage in northwest Polk County on the edge of the land they call the Sand Barrens. I never new much about the area until I met Doug Johnson, professor at the UW, digging in the clay bank along Trade River on Evergreen Avenue, 10 years ago. He told me this story: Some 10,000 to 50,000 years ago, some glaciers melted and made a huge lake upriver from St. Croix Falls. Each year, as the glacier melted, layer after layer of clay washed into the lake and settled to the bottom – to nearly 200 feet thick.

Then, as the melting slowed, only fine sand filtered in, leaving another 20 feet of sand on the lake bottom.

This lake, he called Glacial Lake Lindh—or just Lindh, drained when the water cut through the rocks at the falls of St. Croix.

Professor Johnson said when the surface water drained, it left about 15 feet of water still in the lake bottom, saturating the lower three-fourths of the 20foot sand layer. The dry sand at the top started blowing and made big sand dunes—the big ridges through the Sterling Barrens. With time and lots of rain, the dunes stabilized when prairie grasses and plants moved in. Lightning fires kept the trees burned off.

He told me that it is woods now, only because there are people who put out the fires and plant trees (the county and the DNR mostly). He says the area is especially interesting to biologists because the underground lake is filled with both water and sand—attracting and evolving some mighty strange animals. Since then I have made a study of some of these unique species and will share a few with you in hopes you will help us preserve them in their special sand-barrens-lake habitat.

Collected by

Russ Hanson

River Road

Ramblings

Loren Nelson looking through the Cushing Post Office window in the Cushing Memory Room on Saturday, Aug. 16, at Cushing Fun Days. Nelson said that he used the old window for his many years as Cushing postmaster, starting in the old Methodist Church building at the corners, and later in the Hennings-Gullickson-Reitz-Dramdahl-Olson Store, just north of Suzy-Q’s Bar.

ily that has adapted to the underground sand filled lake. It burrows deep into the sand, hollowing out a small cavern that fills half full of water. There it builds a floating nest with cattail seedheads brought from a nearby swamp, and raises up to a dozen ternlets. The primary difference from the normal tern and the sand tern is the presence of clawed, webbed feet and a seining bill. The claws allow the birds to climb from the hole to the outside. The bill is similar to that of a baleen whale (although smaller) who gulps a huge mouthful of water and then spits it out through strainer teeth to keep the small fish, plankton and shrimp. The sand tern takes a mouthful of wet sand and then strains out the sand leaving the bugs, algae and krill.

Can you help identify this group of Cushing Tigers Baseball players? I A rare but increasing think it may be in the 1920s. The Tigers played in Cushing from 1903 to 1974, species is the sand alligator. winning many local, district and state championships.

Remember the Normally our area is too far Tigers Reunion is 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Cushing Community Cennorth to allow alligators to ter. survive through the winter.

However, years of Twin Lots of people drive along the River Road or Ever- Citians flushing baby alligators purchased on Florida green Avenue and the other old roads in the Barrens vacations and becoming nasty pets, have let them and see the rows of dirt mounds along the ditches and travel down the Mississippi to Prescott and then up wonder what is making them. Well, very few people the St. Croix where they enter Sand Lake Lindh have seen the sand carp that is pretty common in Sand through springs and into the interconnected tunnels of Lake Lindh. As the lake slowly dried up, pools of the sand carp. They prey mostly on sand carp and are water were left with fish trapped in them—landlocked comfortable in the cold winters far below the frozen from the St. Croix, but sitting on 15 feet of water surface, hibernating in abandoned sand tern caverns soaked sand. Over a few thousand years some carp (the web of nature is marvelous). They can be seen evolved to live in the sandy slurry of the old lake, eat- sunning themselves along the horse camp on Trade ing roots instead of water plants, and creating water- River on a quiet summer afternoon.

Pocket gophers live in the upper dry layer of the lake filled tunnels in the firmer areas. Their most unique difference is the blowhole (just like a whale) that they and in the dunes. A 10-inch rain can raise the lake use to clear their sinuses of the sand that filters in. water table high enough to drown most of them. This Each sneeze leaves a mound of dirt on the ground had happened only once in the past 50 years, back in above. If you are driving along a barrens road, look June of ‘42, when it rained for four days straight. A for the series of four to six mounds in a row, the sure few living at the top of a dune ridge escaped to repopulate the area as the water table gradually dropped. sign of an active sand carp.

Sand carp are tasty. Their fins make an especially Their biggest predator is the badger from above, the delicate soup. You must be careful to take only those gopher snake from within and the alligators from who have not been swimming amongst poison ivy below.

The 2006 and 2007 dry years have lowered the lake roots or your stomach lining may break out with ivy blisters. We catch them by digging a sandpit—a 10-foot level nearly two feet. As a preparation to future dry hole straight down in the sand near the mounds. The years predicted by global warming, a few of the sand sand carp comes swimming and burrowing along in carp are actively evolving their fins as rudimentary the wet sand and drowns when he falls into the water legs and taking short sunbathing trips to the surface. I have only seen them near the Sterling tower, where hole.

The sand beaver is a rarer find, but the careful na- Fox Ridge rises 100 feet about Sand Lake Lindh’s ture watcher can see signs of their work. Like the sand water level.

The next time you travel through the Sterling Sand carp, they too spend most of their lives below the surface, living in the underground creeks, so abundant at Barrens, bring a posthole digger, find a low spot bethe edges of Sand Lake Lindh. Some of these creeks tween the dunes and dig a hole down to the lake. burst forth as springs along Wolf Creek, Trade River Spend a half day peering down this window into Sand and the St. Croix. The sand beaver are invaluable to Lake Lindh. If you don’t see at least one of the sand keep the lake from drying out, as their underground water species I have talked about, I will be very disapdams block many of the outlet springs. You can see pointed. *** their activity when you see a cluster of dead trees.

Remember the Tigers Reunion is 2 p.m., Saturday, They cut the roots for their dams. They are a nuisance when they mistake your well for a dam leak and plug Aug. 30, at the Cushing Community Center. If you are your well point (many local wells are only 10-20 feet a player, fan or just interested in old baseball, stop by. deep, taking advantage of the sand filtered lake water). After the reunion, players will adjourn to the Cushing Jack Pine Savages take a rifle shot down their well to Baseball Field, be introduced at the weekend tournament and get a free baseball lunch. Bring your Tigers scare away the beavers and to blow out the debris.

The sand tern is a unique member of the duck fam- memorabilia.

Reading an old newspaper at the Cushing Memory Room this week, I found a short news article from May of 1945.

“Miss Norma Patterson of St. Croix Falls received two silk parachutes in the mail from T/3 Thomas R. Brown stationed in France. One was camouflaged and the other white. Miss Patterson plans to make a wedding dress out of the white silk for her marriage to Tom when he returns from service in France.” I wonder if it turned out this way? Nowadays I think the bride might use the camouflage silk instead.

Another ‘40s paper had an ad for gravel from Iver Jorgenson’s Laketown gravel pit and for his services in hauling gravel to your site. He had a fleet of trucks and two big power shovels according to another article about some work he was doing in Frederic. He lived on the south edge of what the local people called Iver’s Mountain, the area in dispute for a new quarry and gravel pit. The 1914 plat book in the Luck Museum shows 160 acres there owned by the Atlas Mining Company. Just to the north, in Trade Lake Township, were some of the exploration sites for copper mining as written about in an earlier Ramblings column by Stanley Selin. Two traprock ridges parallel Hwy. B in that area. It is an interesting and pretty area to drive through. The area between the ridges is often sandy and gravelly—not too good for farming in a dry year, but a paradise for agate hunters.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Whispering Pines Camp WANTED: Information on Whispering Pines Camp on Spirit Lake Lately we’ve been discussing the camp. It is a beautiful facility and I would like more information on the camp.

Years ago when we lived in South Superior, I remember Abrahamzon the church support of the camp. One of the cabins was called the Betty Lou Cabin in her memory, and we contributed financial aid as well a physical effort.

Has anyone written a comprehensive paper on the camp history?

Was it once a farm with barn, etc?

As I recall, Florence and Ike Joles were camp caretakers (directors) for a time. How long? Ike enjoyed calling at square dances. Ike and I worked together at the Inter-County Leader but in different departments.

I remember going out to the camp in the spring to rake, cut up fallen limbs for fireplace wood, etc.

I remember taking a walk in the woods one time, following a little watery inlet into the lake. It was such a pleasant surprise to see a mother wood duck with a brood of baby ducks following her in single file.

At one time, Siren-Lewis United Methodist churches had a Sunday service at camp at least one time a summer. Unfortunately some families didn’t attend and they missed a valuable experience.

It’s nigh impossible to deny the existence of God when you explore such beautiful grounds.

One time some city kids visited our farm and we walked on our back 40. One little boy asked me in an awe-stricken voice, “Is this a forest?”

“Well, yes, you could call it that, but we just say woods. We are taking a walk in the woods,” I answered.

At camp, it is like a magnificent forest on a lovely lake.

As a child growing up downstate, I never had a camp experience, but my best friend, Marjorie, went.

I was lost without her that week, but when she came home she shared what she had learned, camp songs, etc. I heard all about the villain saying, “You must pay the rent!”

The damsel in distress sobbing, “I can’t pay the rent.” (Boo-hoo-hoo) And the handsome hero steps forward to say bravely, “I will pay the rent.”

And there was all the business of a hairbow being used, in turn, as a necktie for the hero, and a mustache for the villain.

Marjorie took swimming lessons and turned out to be a near-champion swimmer while I dog-paddled beside her. So camp really was a valuable resource.

Another question: Did Fred Brancel ever write about Whispering Pines? I recall when the building erected on the edge of the camp was named for Fred.

I thought it was earmarked for senior citizen activities but I recall precious few such occasions. What did I miss?

I sometimes wonder if the time of camping for

Bernice

Behind the Signpost

kids is past. It seems children grow up so fast and before we know it, they are old enough to baby-sit and make some money. Do you know what baby-sitting is worth these days? You’d be surprised.

Kids are in such a hurry to grow up and earn money. My husband, Ken, used to say to them, “Do you know what your job is these days? It’s to attend school.”

I wonder why camp facilities cannot be rented out by the week to adult groups? Can you imagine a group of artists painting landscapes, nature and animals?

Writers would be ecstatic and into poetry, contemplation, uplifting thoughts.

How about in-depth Bible study by the week?

How about dieters? How about self-improvement?

Cross country skiing in winter? Ice-skating lessons?

So much to learn, winter or summer.

With a reliable, caretaker, the grounds could be a real treasure for serious hobbyists. Scrapbooking?

Reading a couple of in-depth books? Watching films and critiquing. I’d have no trouble at all filling a day with worthwhile accomplishments.

I grew up as an only child so I have been able to spend time alone and be okay with it. I know how to fill my time and enjoy it. That is all a good thing.

What year was the camp established?

If it was indeed farmed, who owned it?

Our United Methodist Women used to have District UMW meetings there.

Perhaps camps should entertain some new concepts. Times keep changing.

For instance, I remember all the auctions where our church women’s groups used to serve lunches.

Then the auctioneers started their own lunch wagons.

I remember when our church women’s groups used to serve lunches all day on Election Day in the Lewis Town Hall. Then it was voted to move to a country school to be used as a town hall. The old Lewis Town Hall (alias dance hall, card-playing hall) burned down.

I would like to learn more about Whispering Pines Camp. Lots of stories there.

WANTED (OR LOST) The late Mabel Sutton had some wonderful oldtime pictures of Lewis and other paper memborabilia. Much of it was attached to a wall hanging and displayed during Charles E. Lewis Days in past years.

We hoped to borrow it from members of the family for this year’s celebration. Unfortunately, it was inadvertently sold at auction. We do not know who purchased it, but we do know we would really like to find it as it means a great deal to us here in Lewis.

Perhaps we can buy it from you or perhaps through the goodness of your heart, you could donate it to us. We would cherish it. We’re in the phone book and if it were returned, we’d be forever in your debt.

Until next week, Bernice

Family care organization names CEO and site headquarters HAYWARD — The Northwest Long-Term Care District Board of Directors has named John T. McMahon as its new CEO in charge of directing a new public managed care organization to deliver family care services to elders and adults with disabilities. Recently, the MCO was notified that the state Department of Health Services intends to contract with them to provide family care in Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer and Washburn counties.

The board also identified Hayward as the site of its administrative headquarters. Eventually, there will be smaller hub offices for additional staff located throughout the region.

“We have two major hurdles to clear by the end of the year,” said McMahon. “To be certified by the state and to hire and train the staff and providers necessary to serve our members starting in March 2009.”

Within two years, the organization will employ 250 staff, over a 1,000 providers and serve 3,500 members.

McMahon has been the NW Family Care Development director since September 2007. While the Director of Health and Human Services in Washburn County from 1999 to 2007, he became involved with

family care planning as the steering committee chair of the 11-county NW-LTCO Consortium, which was organized to create a comprehensive plan for delivering long-term support and health services through a regional managed care organization.

“I’ve had the unique perspective of having not only been part of the formation of the organization, but in the vision and goals that inspired the counties to create the state’s first multicounty family care organization,” said McMahon. “I know the distinct challenges ahead, but I also know the dedication and resolve of all who are a part of this effort. I have no doubt we will succeed in bringing 1,000 elderly and disabled people off the waiting lists in Northwest Wisconsin and offer our members an independent life of their choosing. It is their right and our mission.”

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary Karen Timberlake will attend the Northwest LongTerm Care District Board of Directors’ meeting at the Ramada Inn in Hayward on Monday, Sept. 8, at 9 a.m.

The public is invited to attend and participate with comments or questions. For more information about this meeting or more about family care, visit www.nwfamilycare.com. — from Family Care

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Obituaries included Harriet Frances Lilygren, Mrs. H. Gerhardt and Vedon Harris.-St. Dominic’s Guild planned to sponsor a bake sale and coffee at the Chevrolet Garage, downtown Frederic, in September.-The 26th-annual Rutabaga Festival would be held Sept. 19, 20, 21 in Cumberland.-An old-time threshing party would be held at Centuria Sept. 21, rain date Sept. 28, with a 1922 Case steam-powered engine and old-time 1921 Case grain separator.Elvis Presley was starring in “King Creole” at the D’Lux Theatre, Luck.-A wedding dance was set for Sept. 20, at the Indian Creek Hall for Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Wellnitz (Elvina Hinze).-A free clam-shell ashtray for those who stopped at Viola Lake to see unusual item at the Sea Museum, one mile west of Anchor Inn, by U.S. Grant Jr.-The Farmers Union Quarterly Convention was set for LaFollette School, Sept. 26, at Bone Lake.-Patients receive 20, 690 days care at Kenny Institute during 1957.-Victor Glockzin, dean of Frederic bus drivers, completed 25 years of service at Frederic.-State dignitaries planned to attend party honoring Dr. Arveson.

40 Years Ago The tractor-pulling contest at the Burnett County Fair, Grantsburg, was held Friday evening, Aug. 30.-Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, were pot roast at 47¢ lb., 10 lbs. potatoes at 39¢, kidney beans at 4 cans for 49¢ and round steak at 77¢ lb.Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included 10 lb. bag of sugar at 88¢, kidney beans at 8 cans for $1; white potatoes at 20 lbs. for 89¢, Wolf River apples at 3 lbs. for 49$.-A wedding dance was set for the West Sweden Hall on Aug. 24, for Mr. and Mrs. Larry Price (Leota Hackett).- The First Baptist Church prepared to dedicate a new building in Webster.-The Grantsburg School would open Aug. 23 for the preschool workshop according to Superintendent. Merlin Johnson.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included turkey roast at $2.79 for 6 to 8 lbs., red potatoes 10 lbs. for 49¢, green seedless grapes for 19¢ lb., Charmin toilet tissue 4 rolls for 39¢ and Pampers diapers from 89¢ - $1.69.A huge auto auction was set for Aug. 31 at Pine Motors, Inc., Pine City, Minn.-New faculty members at Frederic included Edward Krueger, Rebecca MacLeod, Jean Ekblad, Michael Milligan, Dean Bennett and Patricia Berquist. There were 23 other staff members, too.

20 Years Ago Reader of the Week at the Frederic Public Library was Eugene Ruhn, 9, of Frederic.-Timberland Hills may be site of 1990 National Ski Championship next year.-Congressman David Obey called for a dairy price hike.-Jennifer Fornego, Denise Hill and Bobbi Liebgott were pictured awaiting the judge’s decision in the Little Miss Danbury pageant with Bobbi receiving the honor.-No color photographs were accepted for printing in the Leader.-Mikki Morris was crowned Miss Milltown.-A Norwegian group visited the Grantsburg community.-Polk County reals estate transfers were printed in this newspaper.-Do you remember the Ranch and Dairy Bar in Luck? Two eggs and toast were listed at 89¢.

All the buttermilk pancakes you can eat at 99¢.

Served all day were fruit plates with frozen yogurt.A column called Eye-to-Eye featured Sheriff Paul Lindholm’s successes, goals and a third term.Lucky Days ran July 15-17.-Cullen Ryan, 8, was selected Reader of the Week at the Frederic Pubic Library.-What a great spread in this newspaper on the ball games at Lewis near Moline’s place. Remember the Shire Paulsen field. The Gruel’s Gorillas. The Animals. So many players. The field is now gone, no trace, too bad.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Hi, everybody! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. Here it is, a new week already. Boy, this summer is sure going fast. The nights are beginning to get cooler, and the deer flies are finally dwindling in numbers. Hooray for that! I’m kind of looking foward to fall. It’s not easy being a black dog in the summertime; your fur gets hot from the sun, and you are a big, mobile bug magnet. Why is that?

Except for my flying tormentors and one too many baths this season, I can’t complain though. I’ve YAPpenings got to do a lot of stuff this summer, I’ve made a lot of new friends at the shelter, and I’ve been able to see a lot of them get adopted into some wonderful new homes.

That really puts my tail in motion! Hey, did I ever tell you that I can wag my tail straight up and down? It’s true! I’m a dog of many hidden talents.

Although there are no new dogs for me to tell you about this week, there are still plenty of wagging tails at the shelter. I am also pleased to announce that some of them are packing their bags to join their new families, and some have already gone! Winnie, Rascal and Peaches went home, and also two cats - Tippy and Clancy. I still wish someone would adopt Mia Sophia and Tinkerbell. They are two nice cats who have been at the shelter since early spring and have watched as many of their feline roommates have gone on to new homes, whilst they have been left behind.

I don’t know why. They are easy on the eyes, affectionate, and would make a nice addition to any catlover’s home.

Remember Fritz? You know, the guy before me that wrote this column? Do you remember how bashful he was and how he used to skip the dog outings that the shelter folks would take the other dogs out on?

Well, he must really be making strides at his new home because, word has it, he was in a parade this summer! His new family is pretty special, I’d say, to help him make an accomplishment like that. I bet no

Blacky

Shelter

349-2964 The mornings are getting a little cooler and maybe that’s why my orioles aren’t draining the feeders as much, there’s not as many. I am beginning to think some have already left. Our Swedish guests couldn’t believe the flurry of activity around the feeders last Thursday afternoon, with both orioles and hummingbirds, neither of which they had seen before. They were really amazed at the size of the tiny hummingbirds.

The Food and Friends community dinner will be held at the Siren Methodist Church on Wednesday, Aug. 27, from 5 to 6 p.m. Come early as the food goes fast. This is a free meal, but donations are always welcome.

There will be a Furry Family Reunion for all those who have adopted animals from the Burnett County Humane Society, at the humane society on Saturday, Aug. 23.

Fran Krause Kent and Nancy Krause were in Milwaukee for the Brewers games Aug. 8 and 9. They also visited Norm and Barb Pautz at Chilton on their way home Sunday.

Visitors with Maxine Stone this past week were Bev Johnson, Marvel Merriam, Helen Gravesen, Elaine Scott, Ethel Daniels, Karen Hintz and Fran Krause.

Karen Hintz spent Thursday night through Sunday with

one calls him a doofus, either.

I have a short wish list of items that the shelter folks asked me to mention this week. We received a lot of dog food from generous people (thanks for that!) but we are still in need of some more puppy food. They might look like puppies, but they eat like horses! Fly strips and yard bug spray were also requested. Also, we could use some Frontline for cats and small dogs, because no one wants to begin life in a new home being itchy from ticks and fleas! Paper towels fly off the roll around the shelter; and for the office, coffee and bath tissue are running low. With all the work to do around the place, I have to make certain the staff is fully caffeinated, you know. They have a tough job caring for so many lost and unwanted animals, and it never ends. I just have to keep reminding folks out there of two important things: spay or neuter your pets, and put some identification on them, be it a microchip or tag, or both.

Hey, I just thought of something: You readers are smart; do you have any fundraising ideas you could pass along to me? We are always looking for ways to come up with money to keep us up and running.

Sure, we had the spaghetti dinner (that I didn’t get to attend!), and the wine tasting and the balloon raffle and so on, but I’d like to hear some other thoughts any of you out there might have that we could consider. If you have any novel ideas, send them to me at shelterblacky@gmail.com.

Speaking of e-mails, as I write this on my magic box, I see I’m going to have to step in and intercept a couple before my mom sees them - they are invitations for her to join AARP! Oh my! In dog years, she’s pretty old, but not old enough to join that outfit just yet, and I’m sure I wouldn’t want to be in the room when she opened up that kind of invite. That could be ugly.

You humans can be some silly creatures, for certain, but I also know how generous and thoughtful you can be. It shows in the support you give to my friends at the shelter.

I have to go now before tragedy strikes. Take care, everyone, and I’ll see you here next week!

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org, 815-866-4096.

Siren The Burnett County Tavern League will have a golf tournament/fundraiser on Sunday, Aug. 24, at the Siren National Golf Course, with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. This is a four-person scramble and a chicken and ribs dinner will follow afterward at Kris’ Pheasant Inn in Siren. For more info, or to sign up, call Kris’ at 715-349-5755 from 11 a.m.6 p.m.

Art and Bev Beckmark enjoyed visiting with Anders Hansson and his son, Erik, from Sweden, for three days, while they stayed in their home. Erik was with the group of young boys and girls who performed with their fiddles at the Siren Methodist Church last Thursday evening and at the Falun Baptist Church Friday evening. After both performances, they headed down to Rudy and Pat Solomonson’s on Big Dunham Lake for a bonfire with more playing,

Orange Fran Krause. They were supper guests of Kent and Nancy Krause Friday night.

The Mark Krause family camped at Sioux Portage Campground in Governor Knowles State Forest over the weekend. The Webster High School cross-country team camped there Sunday night and had their practice Monday morning.

Engagement

Neumann/Anderson Paula Neumann and Phillip Anderson, both of Chetek, announce their engagement and forthcoming wedding. Parents of the future bride are Roger and Patricia Neumann of Luck. Parents of the future groom are Greger Anderson of LaCrescent, Minn., (formerly of Chetek), and Sue Anderson of Eau Claire. – Photo submitted

E-edition - this complete issue is online now. www.the-leader.net Bev Beckmark singing and, of course, making those famous s’mores.

They returned to Sweden on Sunday, but all of them vowed they would be back. What a great bunch of young people.

Sympathy to the family of Larry H. Hinyl, who died Aug. 1.

Those of you who have kids now in hockey or want to be, registration sign-up dates are Tuesday, Aug. 26, 7:308:30 p.m. and again on Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at the Siren Lodge Center Arena.

Thrivent Financial held their annual members picnic on Sunday, Aug. 17, at the Crooked Lake Park. A chicken, bean and potato salad picnic was enjoyed by all.

LaVonne O’Brien The Harmony H.C.E. Club Sale at Orange Community Center Saturday was a success.

Fran Krause attended the Sarah Circle at Jean Flanigan’s Wednesday afternoon and the Polk-Burnett Retired Educators luncheon and meeting at Centuria along with Mary Jane and Bob Ramstrom on Thursday.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement

Lewis

653-4281

Beautiful summer days with just a hint of fall in the air.

Cool nights. Lawns are still very green, not crisp and dry the way they sometimes are. We are all asking the same question, “Where did the summer go?” School will be in session before we know it.

Carol and Lee Mangelsen and LaVerne Leep went to Somerset Friday night to visit at the home of Jenny and Kryst, Ethan and Emmie.

Lots of clean-up all over Lewis last week following the Charles E. Lewis Days celebration and the tent revival.

Lots of tired people.

The Frederic Class of 1954 held a reunion Saturday at Coon Lake Park on a beautiful day.

Have you checked the number on the Charles E. Lewis Day pin you bought? Quite a few local folks won cash prizes. Very generous.

Get well wishes to Richard Doffing, who underwent major surgery last week.

Bernice Abrahamzon

Tim and Tod Abrahamzon went to the 24th-annual threshing bee at Turtle Lake on Saturday. Many other demonstrations.

The Little Miss Lewis was Breanna Wallway of Ridgefield, Wash., and Little Mr. Lewis was Isaiah Simon. No ages or parents names given or address for Simon.

It was mission Sunday at the Lewis Church on Aug. 17, with the special collection going to Paul Webster, missionary in Africa. Phil Schaetzel sang a beautiful hymn. Involved in the service were Pastor Tom Cook, LaVonne Boyer, Robin Peterson, ushers Kerry and Linda Cook, etc.

Many meetings this week at the Lewis United Methodist Church. Consult Sunday’s bulletin.

The Northwest Regional Writers will meet at 1 p.m., the second Friday in Sept., at Sunrise Apts. The assignment is traveling together. Giving you plenty of time to work on it.

Birth announcements Born at Amery Regional Medical Center

O’Donnell/Hall Keith and Sandy O’Donnell, Dresser, announce the engagement of their daughter, Kim, to Chad Hall, son of the late Randy Hall and Lloyd and Penny Meyer, St. Croix Falls.

Kim is a 1999 graduate of St. Croix Falls High School and a 2003 graduate of Winona State University.

Chad is a 1995 graduate of St. Croix Falls High School and a 2004 graduate of UW-River Falls.

A September 2008 wedding at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Taylors Falls, Minn., with a reception at Trollhaugen Convention Center is being planned.

The couple will reside in Osceola.

A boy, Eli Scot Lowell Zeller, born Aug. 9, 2008, to Tessa Randall and Roy Zeller, Siren. Eli weighed 6 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, Brody Wallace Brown, born Aug. 11, 2008, to Rhondia Pahl and Mark Brown, Amery. Brody weighed 7 lbs., 12 oz.

••• A girl, Madilyn May Phillips, born Aug. 12, 2008, to Christa Radman and Randal Phillips, Amery, Madilyn weighed 8 lbs., 4.5 oz.

•••

Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center:

A boy, Jace Scott Dale Severson, born May 31, 2008, to Scott Severson and Tanya Lundeen, Chisago City, Minn.

Jace weighed 6 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A girl, Rose Mary Rain Thompson, born July 24, 2008, to Jennifer Mueller and Tommy Thompson, Milltown. Rose weighed 6 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A girl, Marissa Ann Anderson, born Aug. 5, 2008, to Mark and Mindi Anderson, Centuria. Marissa weighed 6 lbs.

••• A boy, John David Ellingworth, born Aug. 5, 2008, to 468-2940 Karen Mangelsen Holly and David Ellingworth, Dresser. John weighed 6 lbs., Gerry, Donna, Lawrence and Nina Hines and Don and 1 oz.

Lida Nordquist were supper guests of Ray and Cheryl ••• Olson at their cabin on Pokegama Lake Monday.

A boy, Parker Benjamin Sellnow, born Aug. 6, 2008, to Mary Dunn, Marlene Swearingen, Lorri McQuade, Judy Albee, Lida Nordquist and Nina and Donna Hines were Tuesday afternoon guests of Karen Mangelsen. They all enjoyed a time of visiting and playing cards.

Dixie Andrea, Sue Mroszak, Beth Crosby, Charlene Strabel, Jessica Strabel and Judy Albee went to Plymouth, Minn., Wednesday and attended the play, “Church Basement Ladies II.” The trip was organized through Faith Lutheran Church in Spooner.

Cheryl and Ray Olson were lunch guests of Lawrence and Nina Hines Thursday.

FREDERIC - Frederic’s Landmark Lodge of the AnChuck and Kerry Russell were supper guests of Judy cient Free and Accepted Masons will be hosting an open Albee Thursday evening. house Saturday, Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Roger and Sue Mroszak went to Brainerd, Minn., for the The lodge invites any person interested in learning weekend and were guests of Chuck and Marie Jorgenson. more about its fraternity come and meet with them over Other friends were there too, and they spent time visiting a lunch of brats and burgers. and playing cards. They also attended a play.

Masonry is a fraternity which is primarily focused Friday night, Garry and Beth Crosby, Judy Albee and upon helping good men to become better men through Don Schleiss had supper at Pine Ridge near Stone Lake. the development of moral character. It reinforces and They celebrated Don’s birthday.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen visited John and Diana teaches these beliefs by use of symbols and allegory.

Masonry in this area began in Osceola in 1862. As the Mangelsen Friday evening.

Saturday evening, Ron and Carol Grunewald, Donald fraternity grew, new lodges were formed in Clear Lake, Albee, Judy Albee and Don Schleiss enjoyed some time 1884; Amery, 1893; Grantsburg, 1890; St. Croix Falls, 1900; and in Frederic, 1913. Membership in Masonry playing cards with Beverly Brunclik at her home.

Don and Lida Nordquist met Jo and Richard Funk for continued to boom up to and after World War II. There are approximately 2.2 million men in the brunch Sunday to celebrate Don’s birthday.

United States who are members of the Masonic fraterThe new stained-glass windows were dedicated at the Faith Lutheran Church in Spooner Sunday morning. They nity. Wisconsin currently has about 15,000 members in 190 local lodges. were made by Joan Bly of St. George, Utah.

Clam River Tuesday Club will meet Wednesday, Sept.

Wisconsin Masons and Masonic lodges participate in 3, at 1:30 p.m. at Lakeland Manor. The afternoon will and support numerous charitable activities. These inbegin with a potluck lunch. clude the Wisconsin Masonic Home at Dousman, a pub-

Dewey - LaFollette

Ben and Fauna Sellnow, Siren. Parker weighed 6 lbs., 12 oz.

••• A girl, Laynie Jo Amos, born Aug. 7. 2008, to Kassi Milberg and Joseph Amos, Centuria. Laynie weighed 8 lbs., 6 oz.

••• A girl, Johannah Cecelia Adolphson, born Aug. 7, 2008, Tamara and Brandon Adolphson, Grantsburg. Johannah weighed 8 lbs., 4 oz.

••• A boy, Liam Benjamin Zinn, born Aug. 7, 2008, to Gregory and Julie Zinn, Amery. Liam weighed 7 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A girl, Daisy Marie Roehm, born Aug. 7, 2008, to Todd and Debbie Roehm, Luck. Daisy weighed 8 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, Justice Roy Gutting, born Aug. 10, 2008, to Sharalanee Staples and Darin Gutting, Webster. Justice weighed 8 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A boy, Jacob Robert Metz, born Aug. 11, 2008, to Marianne and Dennis Metz, Shafer, Minn. Jacob weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A boy, Colton Daniel Johnson, born Aug. 13, 2008, to Jen and Travis Johnson, Chisago City, Minn. Colton weighed 8 lbs., 5 oz.

•••

Needed: A few good men

Local Masonic Lodge to hold open house Sept. 6

lic nursing home, the Masonic Medical Foundation of Wisconsin, which provided the Masonic Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Milwaukee, and the Wisconsin Masonic Foundation, from which scholarships are given to students throughout Wisconsin.

In addition to supporting the above charities, Landmark Lodge’s primary charity is funding scholarships to graduating high school seniors from the local area.

In 2008, Landmark Lodge was able to provide seven $500 scholarships.

Another important part of the Masonic family in the Frederic area is the Order of the Eastern Star (OES) chapter. The Eastern Star strives to take good people, and through uplifting and elevating associations of love and service, and through precept and example, build an order which is truly dedicated to charity, truth and loving-kindness. The OES is open to both men and women.

Come to the lodge in Frederic Sept. 6 to learn more about Masonry and the Order of the Eastern Star. Landmark Lodge is located on United Way in Frederic, between the Marek Chiropractic office and Northwest Passage (the former hospital). If you are interested, but unable to attend contact Dean Daniels at 715-483-1671 or e-mail them at landmarkmasoniclodge@comcast.net - submitted

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 866-4334 The center was busy during lunchtime on Tuesday, Aug. 12, as 14 ladies from the Runaway Rubies Red Hat Society joined the diners for a delicious meal of beef stroganoff. Jane Wardean and Gladys Beers hosted the event and had the tables for the ladies wonderfully set up and decorated in their purple and red colors, and the ladies were brilliant in their purple clothing and red hats.

The all-season tree was also covered in Red Hat items and decorations. A birthday gift and card was presented to Edna Schroeder for her birthday and door prizes were won by Theresa Gloege and Donna Doriott. Afterward dime bingo was played. Ms. Hattie, mascot from the Ravishing Rubies RHS, accompanied Gladys but bears aren’t allowed to play cards so she had to sit and watch.

Burnett County Aging Director Lois Taylor met with members of the Elderly Nutrition Project Council at the A & H Senior Center on Wednesday morning: Dee Troutman, Mary Klar, Glenna Hauger, Myrtle Kisselburg, Cora Sandberg, Jerry Oachs, Eldora Brown and new member, Violet Dahlberg of Grantsburg, who is replacing Helen Johnson. Nutritionist Sarah Miller was absent as she was attending a training session in Madison.

After each center gave their reports, Lois reported that due to an increase in costs, effective Sept. 1, all nutrition sites (but not the senior centers) will be closed one day per week, not include Monday or Friday. Each site will choose their own day of Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Home-delivered meals will be delivered only three days per week, but will receive meals for 5 days.

This policy will be effective until further notice from the aging department. Lois also informed the council that she will be having hip replacement surgery on Aug. 25 at the hospital in Rice Lake and will be out of the office for up to one month, but will be able to do some computer work from her home. We wish her a successful surgery and a speedy recovery. Site manager/cook Pat Larson prepared the meal.

Fifteen ladies played dime bingo on Wednesday afternoon and we were happy to have Edna Schroeder’s stepdaughter, LaDonna Kelly, join in on the fun. Thanks to Faye Russ for furnishing the refreshments.

Thirty-four diners enjoyed the roast beef dinner pre-

Webster Senior Center pared by Deb for the Thursday evening Dining at Five meal. Afterward Harold Peterson, Rod and Millie Hopkins, Pat O’Brien, Dave Wardean, Earl Boelter, Sam Williamson and Ken Hayes played pool. Nancy O’Brien, Jane Wardean, Gladys Beers, Carol Berglind, Deb Korhonen, Bernie Boelter, Theresa Gloege and Mert Kisselburg played cards, and everyone enjoyed the munchies furnished by Nancy and Millie.

On Thursday morning Delores Farr, Margel Ruck, Opal Johnson and Mary Klar went on an overnight bus tour to Ashland with 44 other super adults from the Clover Community Church east of Hinckley, Minn. We first stopped at Lynne Marie’s Candies in Hayward where we stocked up with goodies and satisfied our sweet tooth, and then on to Ashland for lunch and to check into the Hotel Chequamegon overlooking beautiful Lake Superior. In the evening we attended a fish boil supper and then a Big Top Chautauqua show located three miles south of Bayfield/Mt. Ashwabay Ski Hill. The show was led by cofounder Warren Nelson, who is called “Wisconsin’s Best Folk Musician.” Warren is a poet, songwriter, radio host and entertainer. Our seats were great as they were located front-and-center of the tent. They will be presenting their show for 12 days at the Minnesota State Fair and their huge white tent with its blue and white striped top will be located next to the grandstand.

On Friday our group took a cruise on the Ashland Bay Express to Raspberry Island, which is one mile long and one-half mile wide and covers 296 acres. Upon docking, we huffed and puffed our way up 72 stairs to the platform/top of the island where the lighthouse stands. It is the second light station built among the islands, in 1864.

There are seven lighthouses in total amongst the Apostle Islands. Later, a double dwelling was built on the island for keepers and their families. The Raspberry Lighthouse flower gardens were once acknowledged as being the most beautiful as they framed the large white duplex. I thought I was going to have to roll down the hill instead of facing those 72 steps back down to the boat. To tell the truth, Margel was the only one of our four who had the energy to climb to the very top of the lighthouse.

After returning to shore we had lunch at the hotel, and

Cloverton-Markville Nine members of the East Pine County Wanderers joined in the fun at the annual Seven-County Senior Federation potluck party in Hinckley last week. Pam and Leon Berg, Clara Lilly, Darlene Merimonti, Shirley and Jerry Blokzyl, Fran Levings, Evelyn Johnson, and Marlene Mishler, along with guest Mary Moser, all agreed that it was a very entertaining day. Door prize winners from our group included the Bergs, Darlene and Evelyn. Deloris Schirmer is also a member of the Federation and she won an afghan in absentia. Each of the seven counties put up a contestant in a game show and Fran Levings, representing Pine County, was the winner and awarded a sevencounty sweatshirt.

After medical appointments recently in Stillwater, Minn., Helen and Jim Allen stopped in to see son Jeff for awhile.

Ed Profitt’s cousin Allen Bell and Allen’s mom, Mildred Anderson, came from Brainerd, Minn., to visit Ed and Jan on Tuesday. They had a nice talk, then Allen and his mom journeyed on to visit other Proffit family members in the area.

Tim, Lisa, Alex and Elizabeth Drake came to spend the afternoon with their mom and dad, Sandi and Dave, recently. Alex’s boyfriend, Andrew, came with them. The guys spent some time setting up some bear baits.

Haying season continues for the farmers out here.

When Eleanor and Mel Elliott aren’t busy with that, they are trying to figure out why their garden isn’t doing so well this summer. A beetle has been getting their cucumbers and she hasn’t had to stake her tomatoes at all this year.

The rain has been hampering the haying process quite a

Mary Klar then made our weary bus trip back home. After getting back to my own home I crashed and burned.

The annual what-not sale put on by the Harmony HCE club at the Orange School on Saturday was well-attended.

Margel and I attended and we both purchased some fantastic homemade frosted cinnamon rolls made by LaVonne O’Brien. Two young men must have decided on Saturday morning that because there was so much activity going on in Danbury, no one would notice it when they robbed Bremer Bank. They were apprehended shortly after and were taken into custody. What were they thinking?

Laura and Jake Swanson of Superior were guests of Judy Baker this week.

They also visited son Jeremy Gronski of Grantsburg.

Judy’s grandsons, Gunnar and Jarret Gronski of Superior, also visited her for two days.

Interfaith Caregivers will be having their second-annual Labor Day rummage and bake sale on Friday, Aug. 29, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 30 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Webster Community Center. Mark your calendar for this great fundraiser.

Thanks go to Wes and Norma Maurer for their donation of fresh green beans from their garden and Elaine Scott for a plate of homemade cookies to go with morning coffee.

Our get-well wishes and prayers continue go to Sue Becker and Antone and Jeremy Gronski. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the family of the man who died following a 4-wheeler accident in the Danbury area on Saturday.

With election day rapidly approaching, Tuesday, Nov. 4, we recently have been bombarded with television segments about our presidential candidates, and hearing the candidate’s speeches. Thankfully, we live in a country where we have freedom of speech and choice. We have many choices to make in our lifetime, but the biggest one of all is the one regarding our spiritual election. The Bible tells us in Joshua 24:15, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve….But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” “Thy will I choose; I give to Thee, all of the life Thou gavest me; Thy will I choose, no life I ask, except to do Thy given task.” – Anon. See you at the cen-

Fran Levings bit.

Bob Carlin spent his week off from UPS in the Cities to help his mom and dad, Beverly and Ed, put up hay.

Here at home, I stopped down to see Deloris Schirmer to deliver her afghan and took some chocolate zucchini cake because I know she loves chocolate. We had cup of coffee and she told me that the gooseberry bushes she planted many years ago produced a lot of berries this year.

It was the first year that they’ve really done well.

I went to Ashland one day last week to watch grandson, Tanner, age 5, play a soccer game. Then, I stayed overnight and enjoyed visiting with my son, Chuck, and the rest of his family.

The daylilies are lovely, wherever they are.

Amery Senior Center

by Susan Shachtman, assistant director

I can’t believe that August is half over and Labor Day is only a few weeks away! Although I do love the fall, summer is still my favorite season. And speaking of fall, we invite you to attend Pancakes Under the Tent as part of the Fall Festival at Michael Park. The date is Sunday, Sept. 14, from 8 a.m. until noon. We will be serving sausage, juice, milk, coffee, and all-you-can-eat pancakes. The cost is $5 for adults and $2.50 for children under 10. This year we are thrilled to have the Lake Country Cloggers performing under the tent at 11a.m.! This is an event you won’t want to miss.

Please note that the Amery Senior Center will be closed for maintenance on Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 25 and 26.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

Our next birthday party will take place on Tuesday, Sept.

9, at 11:45 a.m. It doesn’t have to be your birthday to attend. You can also get your blood pressure checked for free from 11a.m. to noon that day. A seminar on long-term care will be given by Steve Helling following the meal at 12:30 p.m. Contact the senior center by Friday, Sept. 5, to make your reservation.

There are still a few seats available for our Door County trip on Thursday, Sept. 4, so call the center before you miss out on this wonderful adventure.

If you have been following the Minnesota Twins you know how great they’re doing! If you’d like to see them play the Kansas City Royals on Thursday, Sept. 11, give us a call. The cost is $60 for members and $72 for nonmembers, which include the bus and lower reserved seat. This trip should be lots of fun!

Would anyone be interested in joining a grief support group? If this is something you might want to attend call us at 715-268-6605 or e-mail us at aasc@amerytel.net and let us know.

Our Wii bowling tournaments have really taken off. Congratulations to last week’s winners, Ed O’Neill in first place, Paul Hartung in second and Jerry Fisher in third. If you want to have some fun and don’t want to lift a heavy bowling ball, come to the center on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. The cost is $2 per person with prize money going to the top winners.

Gratitude is extended to Wendell and Ginny Anderson for hosting our 500 card party on Aug. 12, along with the help of Nancy Hatella and Frances Cotch. Lila Ward came in first place, Mildred Ihrig came in second and Kim Rosen and Richard Backes won door prizes.

Congratulations to Carl Johnson, who won first place in this week’s pool tournament! Val Hansen came in second, Paul Seidel came in third and Art Butler placed fourth.

Evelyn Jackelen took first place in the Monday Bridge group and Pauline Larsen took second.

The winners in the Wednesday Bridge group were Lila Ward in first, Dorothy Lehmann in second, Pete Hanson in third, Sandy Thorn in fourth and Sydney Lund in fifth place.

Have a wonderful and safe week.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Interstate Park news Naturalist programs at Wisconsin Interstate Park Friday, Aug. 22 2 p.m. – Hike to the Summit. Join naturalist Barb Walker for a short hike up the Summit Rock Trail.

Learn fascinating facts about the history and geology of the area and see spectacular views of the St. Croix River. Meet at the Summit Rock Trail sign.

Saturday, Aug. 23 2 p.m. – Owls: Silent Hunters of the Night. Owls are among the most successful predators of the night because of their amazing adaptations. Learn all about

them with naturalist Barb Walker and her live owl, Aztec, at a program presented at the Ice Age Center.

4 p.m. – Molten Lava and Melted Ice. Learn about the gee-whiz geology of Interstate Park. A scenic hike which begins at the Pothole Trail sign.

7 p.m. – Secrets of Eagle Peak. Join the naturalist for a hike up Eagle Peak Trail. Learn the secrets of the peak and see a beautiful view of the St. Croix River Valley. Meet at the Eagle Peak Trail sign in the Pines Group Camp.

Wednesday, Aug. 27 2 p.m. – Snakes! Snakes are among the most misunderstood and feared creatures on earth. Stop by the Ice Age Center and visit with naturalist Barb Walker to learn more about these amazing reptiles. You will also

have an opportunity to meet two live snakes!

Thursday, Aug. 28 10 a.m. – Nature Story Time. Join naturalists Julie Fox or Barb Walker for a story and activity chosen especially for children pre-K through kindergarten and their parents. Summer Nature story time is ending for the season, Aug. 28 being the last day. Winter nature story time begins in January 2009 and runs through March. Check at the park office upon arrival for program location.

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls on Hwy. 35 just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. For more information call Walker or Fox at 715-483-3747. – submitted

St. Croix Valley Senior Center The Tuesday afternoon domino winners were: Martha Lundstrom in first place, Gino Torresin in second place, Ione White in third place. 500 card winners were: Bruce Medchill in first place, Ron Flostrand in second place, Pete Schlosser in third place, Carol Van Buskirk in fourth place and Marian Davison in fifth place.

Just for today I will exercise my soul in three ways: I will do somebody a good turn and not get found out; if anybody knows of it, it will not count. I will do at least two things I don’t want to do, just for exercise. I will not show anyone that my feelings are hurt: they may be hurt, but today I will not show it.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Ray Nelson in first place, Olga Young in second place, JoAnn Gehrman in third place and Cliff Qualle in fourth place.

Have a great day!

Frederic Senior Center Spades was played on Monday, at 1 p.m., with the following winners: first place was Marjorie Nyberg, second place was Mildred Hartshorn, third place was Eleanor Bonneville and fourth place was Willis Williams. It was nice to have the Siren gals with us.

Tuesday Whist was played.

Wednesday, the Pokeno group played, visited and had refreshments.

Thursday 500 cards were played at 6:30 p.m. with the

following winners: first place was Arvid Pearson, second place was Shirley Sandquist, third place was Marlys Borchert and fourth place was Myrna Weik.

Friday the Pokeno group met again.

Saturday we attended the chicken and corn feed across the street and enjoyed pie from the historical society fundraiser. The crowd seemed to be large and such a worthwhile cause, the crafts for sale were lovely. Bingo and cards were enjoyed after 1 p.m. and we enjoyed re-

freshments afterward and of course Clareese Marek’s cake. The pool table is busy almost every morning and the morning coffee club gives the morning a good start for the day.

Sympathy is extended to Lloyd Nelson and Marlys McKiney in the loss of their loved ones.

If you are bored or lonely, drop in and visit with us.

Breezy is a 5-month-old, orange tabby and white kitten. He is playful and earnest in his pursuit of fun and games. This handsome young fellow came to the shelter as a young kitten at the beginning of the summer.

He has watched other kittens get picked up by their new parents and is sure his time will soon come to go home after his long stay at camp. Breezy is ready for a larger camping experience with larger rooms and more possibilities for adventure and growth. Camp Arnell has been fun, but Breezy is ready to go to his forever home.

It is natural to feel sorrow, express grief and expect friends and family to provide understanding and comfort when a person you love dies. The same is true for caregivers who have lost a pet they consider a member of the family. For those who understand and accept the incredible power of the human-animal bond, the grieving process can be difficult to express. Some may consider grieving for a pet inappropriate for someone who has lost “just a pet.”

Animals provide companionship, acceptance, emotional support and unconditional love to their caregivers. The full measure of their loss may not be realized until they are gone; and it can be overwhelming. The grief process can last for days for one person and years for another, including one or more stages of

denial, anger, guilt and finally acceptance. Anger may be directed toward anyone involved with the pet, including family, friends and veterinarians. Caregivers may also feel guilt about what they did or did not do and may feel it is inappropriate to be so upset over the death of a pet.

Acceptance occurs when they accept the reality of their loss and remember the animal companion with decreasing sadness.

The loss of a pet may be a child’s first experience with death.

Trying to protect a child by saying the pet ran away could cause the child to expect the pet’s return and feel betrayal after learning the truth. A parent expressing their own grief may reassure their child that sadness is okay and help him work through his own feelings.

The loss of a pet can be particularly hard for seniors.

Those who live alone may feel a loss of purpose and an immense emptiness. The pet’s death may trigger painful memories of other losses and remind care-

givers of their own mortality. The decision to get another pet is complicated by the possibility that the pet may outlive the caregiver and their ability to physically and financially care for a new pet. It is critical that senior pet owners take immediate steps to cope with their loss and regain a sense of purpose.

Surviving pets will feel the loss of a fellow animal companion too. Even if they were not best friends, the changing circumstances and the caregiver’s emotional state may distress them. TLC and maintaining a normal routine is good for them, and the caregiver.

Rushing into a decision to get a new pet isn’t fair to you or the new pet. Each animal has his own unique personality and a new animal can’t replace the one you lost. You’ll know when the time is right after giving yourself the time to grieve and carefully consider the responsibilities of pet ownership. When you are ready, remember that Arnell Humane Society is a great place to find and adopt your next special friend.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, Amery 715-2687387 (PETS) or online: arnellhumane.org

Check out our new e-edition @ www.theleader.net

Arnell Humane Society Happy Tails

Await

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Luck Public Library Luck Library needs volunteers We are looking for volunteers for several different projects. As most know, we will be moving the library soon and are looking for help with that. We need at least six people who really know the Dewy Decimal system to take books off shelves and put them back up in the new library. We need many people with lots of energy to take items from one library to the next and we need 10 or so people with tools to take things apart and load them into trucks to transport.

Our moving date is Saturday, Sept. 6, so far, but may be subject to change. We will start at 9 a.m. and work until it is done. If you have a truck, equipment dolly, muscles and the desire to help, we need you. Please sign up for a team at the library so we know ahead of time how many volunteers we have and how to organize them. Please be aware that while we enjoy children at the library and certainly encourage their love of the library, due to liability issues, children under the age of 12 will not be allowed in the library work area while we are moving.

Even though I hate to think about it, the school year will soon be starting and we are looking for two or three volun-

teers to work with preschool-aged children during Wednesday’s 10 a.m. preschool story hour times and Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. preschool play and learn group. These programs focus on promoting early literacy and social skills as well as fostering a love of books and learning. Retired reading specialists, early childhood teachers, part-time aides or any energetic person who loves children and libraries – we need you.

Please call the library if you are interested, 472-2770.

Teens – We need your input. The Luck Library will be starting up a teen advisory group beginning Sept. 11. The purpose of this focus group will be to discuss teen issues, develop strategy to promote teens in the library, and to become a teen help force in the library and the community. All youths 12 and up are invited to join. We need fun creative and energetic people to help us plan our programs.

Hours Monday 1-5 p.m., Tuesday 1-8 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 18 p.m., Friday 1-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-noon.

Clear Lake Public Library

Amery Public Library “The Sistine Secrets: Michelangelo’s Forbidden Messages in the Heart of the Vatican,” by Benjamin Blech and Roy Doliner, a book in which my art historian brother is a footnote, will certainly pique the interest of this librarian. In 1993, 20 art historians were invited to write and present papers at the unveiling of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, which had been cleaned and refurbished. My brother, Edward Maeder, was one of the historians and his paper on Michelangelo’s use of costume in the painting is cited in this new book about the Sistine Chapel.

Benjamin Blech, a renowned rabbi, and Roy Doliner, an art historian who specializes in the Vatican, have put another slant on the much discussed Sistine Chapel art.

The book is a fascinating tale of the things that may have influenced Michelangelo and made him paint the figures the way he did in the chapel. They say that many of his paintings reflect the Judaic tradition and aspects of Kabbalah.

Whether or not you agree with the author’s ideas, “The Sistine Secrets,” sheds new light on the masterpiece that we know as the Sistine Chapel. Now I need a trip to Rome to check this out for myself. Well, I had an armchair view of the process anyway.

Library notes On Wednesday, Aug. 27, we will have story time with Elaine, songs and stories for everyone, at 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, Aug. 23, is the last day for summer reading stickers, so please turn your sheets in before that day so they can be counted. Congratulations to all the summer readers who racked up so many reading minutes throughout the summer and to all the moms, dads, grandparents, day-care providers and big brothers and sisters who read to the little ones.

The Friends of the Library book sale will be held on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 22 and 23, during library hours.

Thanks to everyone who signed up to work, set up, and who donated materials. On Saturday morning it will be everything you can put in a bag for $1, so load up.

Thanks to everyone who participated in Story Time on the Road . Our last day is Monday, Aug. 25, at 5 p.m., behind the Twin Pines Apartments. See you next summer.

Library hours The library will be closed on Labor Day, Sept. 1. Regular hours are 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 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Centuria Public Library

Gratitude is extended to Polk-Burnett Operation Round-up for providing funds for the new Discovery Packs. – Photo submitted Calendar of events at the Clear Lake Public Library: Story times: Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 20 and 21: Flashing Fireflys - Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. and Thursday at 10 a.m.

Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 27 and 28: Magic Show - Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. and Thursday at 10 a.m.

Movie night Monday, Aug. 25, at 6:30 p.m. - Show-

ing “The Seeker: Dark is Rising” rated PG 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 715263-2802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Polk County Library Federation It’s back-to-school time! The Polk County Libraries have a great assortment of materials about going to school.

“Countdown to Kindergarten,” by Alison McGhee, is the story of a preschooler who needs to learn to tie her shoes before kindergarten starts in 10 days. In “Wemberly Worried,” by Kevin Henkes, Wemberly has a list of worries when she faces the first day of nursery school. “School Bus,” by Donald Crews, takes children for a ride to and from school. “I Was a Third Grade Spy,” by Mary Jane Auch, has a talking dog and three friends spying on their classmates.

The special 30th-anniversary edition of

“Schoolhouse Rock” is a fun and educational DVD. So if you are excited and/or nervous about starting back to school, be sure to check it out at your local library.

September is National Library Card Month so if you don’t have a card be sure to stop in at your local library and sign up for one.

For further information, contact the library at 715-485-8680. The director is Colleen Gifford, assistant director/youth services is Molly Kessler and the library clerk is Stephanie Fansler.

The Polk County Library Federation is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Osceola Public Library

Summer reading comes to an end The summer reading program at the Centuria Public Library has come to an exciting end. Many books were read, many Bingo sheets were turned in by adults and children alike. The grandprize winner in the adult group is Nancy Thaemert. She is the winner of a $25 gift card to MarketPlace. In the children’s group, all participants are grand-prize winners. They include: Isaac and Zachery Rau, Savannah and Echo Rain Sande, Maria and Aliyah Basham, Gracie Peterson, Brianna Roettger, Ella and Anna Luepke, Henry and Hallie Jo Thaemert, Abby Johnson and Laura Munson. All of these winners won a $5 gift card to Wal-Mart. Thank you from the library for participating in the summer reading program and keep up the good reading!

Reading, writing and arithematic With school starting, parents and kids are busy getting new school clothes and the much needed school supplies. Their minds are on getting back to the school routine and all the learning that will take place in the next school year. School assignments will be made, the need for reading a book, practicing math or doing a special report is approaching.

With all this upcoming activity, the library is ready to assist children and families in finding the educational materials that they will need. New books of all kinds, assistance with doing basic reference work and finding information on the Internet is available.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 5 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 7 p.m.; Wednesday: noon - 5 p.m.; Thursday: noon - 7 p.m.; Friday: closed; and Saturday: 10 a.m. - noon.

Osceola Public Library Summer reading program: Thursday, Aug. 21 – 3 p.m.: Spiders Spin and Knitters Knit. Presented by Mrs. I from the Yarn Parlor. Make felted balls and dye your creations with KoolAid. Wednesday, Aug. 27 – 6 p.m.: Family story time: Flashing Fireflies.

Thursday, Aug. 28 – 7 p.m.: Teen movie night. We’ll view the submission of the film contest and announce the winner.

Friday, Aug. 29 – 3 p.m.: Grand-prize drawing for the iPod. Book discussion Discussion of “Fortress of Solitude,”

by Jonathan Lethem, on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m.

Frederic Public Library

Preschool story time Preschoolers and an accompanying adult are invited to join in the fun and stories every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Milltown Public Library Green: it’s not just our awning We’re going green at the Milltown Public Library, and we’d like to take you along on the journey! Check out this space each week to learn more about the environmentally friendly efforts under way at the library.

Parenting discussion group The Milltown Library hosts a weekly parenting discussion circle at 6:30 p.m.

Each week, this group’s discussions will relate to a different chapter from the book “Parenting for Peace and Justice,”

by James and Kathleen McGinnis (1990).

This secular discussion circle is free and open to all parents; free, onsite child care will be provided (although the babysitters may appreciate a small tip). The discussion circle will meet every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., through Sept. 30.

Parents are encouraged to attend as many of the meetings as possible, but not required to attend every week; likewise, reading the book is encouraged but not required. Copies of the book will be available at the Milltown Public Library.

Summer reading program Turn in your reading records up until the grand prize drawing to earn a free Tshirt and more cool prizes. Make plans to attend the Friday, Aug. 29, grandprize drawing for an iPod touch. Door prizes will be given to those present at the grand-prize drawing!

Gamers club Play with the new Wii until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This is only open to high school and middle school teenagers who have a library card with under $10 in fines. During summer vacation, the Wii will be available from 3:30 until 7 p.m. every Thursday.

Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009

The card is key Please bring your library card with you to the library. With it, you can log right on to our six fast computer stations without having to wait in line at the front desk. Our new computer log-in system will help us provide better service to everyone at the library.

Three Internet computers You must physically present a MORE library card to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast wireless Internet access. No library card necessary!

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, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and closed Sunday.

Frederic Public Library

Young artists show off their freshly painted buggy rocks as part of the Frederic Library summer reading program, Catch the Reading Bug. – Photo submitted Jason the Juggler performs Aug. 23 Jason the Juggler will be at the library on Saturday, Aug. 23, at 1 p.m. Jason Huneke has performed since the age of 13, and is a nationally known entertainer, recognized for his comedy style, and original juggling and manipulation routines. Bring the whole family for this amazing program, the last of the Saturday special events for the summer reading program.

Reminder to turn in your summer reading checklists The Frederic Library reading program officially ends Saturday, Aug. 30. There is still time for children to fill out and turn in their activity lists, and those who return eight checklists will get a cool Tshirt. Please mark your calendars for the following programs, and plan to bring a young person to the library: Monday, Aug. 25, movie time at 3 p.m.; and Wednesday, Aug. 27, story time at 10:30 a.m. The tweens book group will meet Thursday, Aug. 28, at 3 p.m. to make cool greeting cards in the final summer reading tweens event.

Dresser Public Library

What are the book groups reading in August?

The Thursday morning book group will meet Aug. 21, at 10 a.m. to talk about “The Memory Keeper’s Daughter,” by Kim Edwards, the story of the separation of twins at birth and its impact on the family. The evening book group will meet Thursday, Aug. 21, at 7 p.m. to discuss “One Thousand White Women: the Journals of May Dodd,” by Jim Fergus, historical fiction of the Wild West. Copies of both books are available at the library, and new members are always welcome.

Free wireless access available The library offers free wireless Internet access for patrons who bring in their laptops installed with wireless cards - no more waiting to use the public access computers.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

New books Adults: “Smoke Screen,” by Sandra Brown; “Hold Tight,” by Harlan Coben; “Certain Girls,” by Jennifer Weiner; “More Than Words, Vol. 4,” by Linda Lael Miller, et al; “Damage Control,” by J.A. Jance and now novels in the “Love Inspired” series.

Young adults: “The Dangerous Days of Daniel X,” by James Patterson; “Breaking Dawn,” by Stephanie Meyer and three novels by Lurlene McDaniel.

Junior fiction: “Mystery at Kill Devil Hills,” “Mystery in New York City,” “Mystery of the Missing Dinosaurs,” “Mystery of Blackbeard the Pirate” and more Carole Marsh mysteries; “Hairy Tarantulas” and “Crafty Garden Spiders” are new junior nonfiction.

Easy readers and picture books: “De-

tective Camp,” “Mystery at the Treasury,” and “Mystery at the Washington Monument,” by Ron Roy. Coming up Story time for lap-sitters and preschoolers will resume Thursday, Sept. 11, at 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Crochet class for beginners is held each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. New members of all ages are welcome!

Book club will resume, after our summer break, on Sept. 11, from 1-3 p.m. We will be reading Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness.” A novella written in 1902, this is the story of Marlow, the captain of a steamboat in the Congo, far from the safety of civilization. Here he hears rumors of a white man who operates a trading post deep in the wilderness, and there are suggestions the man is seriously ill. After numerous delays, Marlow reaches the man’s station, only to be shocked at how the dying man has been consumed by his inner capacity for savageness.

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.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Summer reading 2008 You may turn in your summer reading hours anytime before school begins. Our summer reading 2008 evening programs ended with a great MiniBeasts Fest.

Gratitude is extended to all of the kids and families that participated. Gratitude is also extended to our knowledgeable locals who shared their expertise at our summer programs: Jeremy Williamson water quality specialist for Polk County Land and Water Resources; beekeepers Chris Lyman and Molly Rushfeldt, the 2008 Polk-Burnett Honey Queen, and Amy Klien from the Festival Theatre.

Check it out at the library BUS-eum 3, a traveling “Traces” exhibit – “Held in the Heartland,” German POWs in the Midwest, 1943-46 will be in the Overlook parking lot from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Free and open to the public.

Traces brings this unusual, rich story to life through the creation of the BUSeum 3—a 40-foot school bus converted

into a mobile classroom and museum.

The exhibit consists of 15 narrative display panels illustrated with photographs and documents, audio and DVD documentaries, artifacts and more.

One in a Hundred – Win a bag full of Aveda products donated by Menagerie Salon of St. Croix Falls. Buy a ticket for a dollar. Only 100 tickets will be sold.

Chances of winning are great! We hope to sell out each month raising $100 for the new library! Thank you to Menagerie for their generous donation.

Friends of the Library The Friends of the Library will meet Wednesday, Aug. 27, noon, in the library.

Join us.

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. everyday except Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Closed on Sunday. 715-483-1777. Check out the library Web site and explore the links – go to www.stcroixfallslibrary.org.

Balsam Lake Public Library Free wireless Internet access – (Wi-Fi) Bring in your own laptop and find out what you need to know to connect.

Story time Please join us for story time at 11 a.m. every Wednesday here at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks.

New books for September “Lucky One,” by Nicholas Sparks, “Heat Lightning,” by John Sandford, “Hot Mahogany,” by Stuart Woods, “Other Queen,” by Gregory Philippa, “Keepsake,” by Tess Gerritsen, “Red Knife,” by Wm. Kent Krueger, “Book of Lies,” by Brad Meltzer. Nonfiction “Power of Giving,” by Azim Jamal, “Mistaken Identity,” Don and Susie Van Ryn and Newell, Colleen and Whitney Cerak.

Book Club September’s selections is “Infidel,” by Ayaan Hirsi Ali.

“Infidel” is a profound, authentic, and inspiring memoir that lays bare the essential struggles between religion, faith, and freedom that define our turbulent times. It is a brave and urgent call for awakening, and a confident portrayal of one woman’s extraordinary evolution.

The book club meets Wednesday, Sept.

17, at 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Friends of the Library We will have a meeting of the Friends of the Library on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 3 p.m., at the library. Please join us.

Hours Balsam Lake Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main Street, Balsam Lake.

Hours are Monday 10 a.m. -8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. – 4 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: h t t p : / / w w w. b a l s a m l a k e p u b l i c library.org

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Frederic 1919 New garage in the Kullen building, south of the flour mill, and expected to be ready for business. We have taken over the Willy’s Overland Agency, and will be pleased to demonstrate these cars. We will have a light car that we can sell for around $690. We will install a complete and modern repair department. We have the experience and ability to fix your car as it should be. Frank Moody and Louis St. Angel, Frederic.

Mr. St. Angelo was formerly manager of the Gedney plants along the line, and for the past year has been employed at Danniger’s Store. Mr. Moody was working at the Sweeney aviation field and here he gained some excellent experience.

Holger C. Pedersen opens garage of the Erickson garage, which is now Frederic Body Shop, Danny Horky.

Farmers Shipping Association re-elect officers for the coming year. Officers elected were Fred Stower, president; A.E. Manson, vice president; Geo. Francis, secretary and J.M. Anderson, manager. The directors were Peter Sand, C.E. Johnson, Louis Gronlund, Andrew Swanberg, Arvid Friberg, M. Simonsen and Frank Dinger.

Mr. and Mrs. John L. Williams celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home north of town. They were married at Liberty Center, Ind., in 1869.

There were 13 children of whom five are living.

Saturday, April 19, 1919, will hold the first market day. The first monthly market day sale will be held at 1 p.m. It is planned to sell at auction everything

brought in that day.

Listed so far, is an auto, horses, cattle, young stock, farm machinery, household goods, sewing machine, saw rig with truck and 6 h.p. Fairbanks and Morse gasoline engine.

Hagberg’s, Olsen & Son, Frederic Roller Mills, Frederic Produce Company, owner B.J. Beckman, prop., Parkers Café, Frederic gets road meeting – Polk and Burnett counties will be held at the Rex Theatre, Frederic, which was a hardware store, owner, Gary Young, and is now the Frederic Library.

Lewis United Methodist Church installed a bell on top of the church. A church dedication was at Methodist Episcopal Church on June 8.

For sale: The First Hotel building located next to the Frederic Hospital. This building contains much good lumber, doors, sash, etc. and a complete plumbing outfit. We are anxious to dispose of this building, and if will be sold cheap if taken at once. It must be moved.

Drs. Arveson and Diamond. The Flour Mill changes hands, L.E. Bergman takes possession. Mr. F. G. Grimh sold to Mr. Bergman so he may confine his time to the electric light plant.

The movies playing at the Rex Theatre in 1919, were the following: “In Pursuit of Polly” a mystery; “Headin’ South”

Betty Fenton Historical

Vignettes

Rex Theatre, Frederic. with Douglas Fairbanks; William S. Hart in “The Tiger Man;” Fatty Arbuckle in “Fatty at Coney Island;” and Jack Pickford in “Tom Sawyer.” Those who saw “Huck and Tom” will enjoy this play, as it is the life of the typical boy.

Undertaking: C.J. Almquist, Lewis, We have added a complete line of funeral supplies, have made arrangements for a licensed embalmer and will take complete charge of funerals.

The potato crop was threatened in Wisconsin, and of the whole upper Mississippi valley. Threatened by the potato leafhopper, the tiny insect which destroyed so large a portion of the early crop on 1918.

Newest idea for elopers, airplane will soon make the auto seem like quite a commonplace vehicle. The way our chil-

National awards for sausage maker CUMBERLAND - Louie’s Finer Meats, Inc., of Cumberland received national recognition at the American Cured Meat Championships held recently in Cincinnati, Ohio.

This highly contested competition was held in conjunction with the 69th Convention of The American Association of Meat Processors and drew 604 entries in 25 product categories.

Louie’s Finer Meats proudly received nine national

awards, more than any other participant.

Receiving first place, grand champion were Andouille Sauage and Braunschweiger. Other champion, reserve champion and reserve grand champion awards include Louie’s famous hams, sausage and bologna.

Louie’s Finer Meats, Inc., is a member of the American Association of Meat Processors, the nation’s largest trade organization representing small businessmen in the meat/food-related industry. - submitted

dren’s parents used to elope is now hopelessly out of date. Limousines belong in the attic with the old spinning wheel. The honeymoon airplane is the vehicle now, and the latest model of it will be shown at the aircraft exhibition in Madison Square Garden, New York.

New city water supply is being drilled to replace the old one here in Frederic.

The lack of water in the city well has become such of a serious nature of late that the tank had been low for several days.

The present well cannot be drilled deeper on account of traprock and to try for another well on the hill would be an uneven chance with success as there is traprock and the scarcity of water to deal with.

Charlie Chaplin in “Shoulder Arms” is playing at the Rex Theatre.

New dog license law came into effect, the owner of a dog must obtain a license and pay a fee of $3 for a male and $5 for a female. The idea back of the bill is to kill off all stray dogs, which worry sheep and cattle. The bill makes it the duty of the owner of the dog to keep him home.

Hagberg Store caught fire. Mrs. Sundberg had gotten up and started the fire in an old stove, and was then called into the store to wait on someone. Men who happened along on their way to work discovered the fire and attempted to enter the building. The firemen arrived on the scene and were successful in saving the Hagberg Store. – from Betty Fenton, director of public relations, Frederic area Historical Society

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Grantsburg Public Library Reading hour Preschool reading hour will start on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 10:30 a.m., and will run throughout the school year. On Wednesday, Sept. 10, Kendra Petersen will show her rabbits to the children, giving them a chance to interact with the animals. A wonderful time for youngsters to learn and to interact with others their own age.

Volunteers The library is looking for volunteers to read on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. to the preschoolers. Time would be for about an hour. Volunteers are also needed as mentors for the after-school reading program. This program is geared for children in the elementary grades who are having trouble with their reading skills. Mentors work one-on-one with a student.

Call the library at 715-463-2244 if you are interested..

Special skills are not needed and a training session will be held before the start of the program.

After-school reading program This program will start on Tuesday, Sept, 23 and Thursday, Sept, 25. If your child is having problems with his/her grade-level reading ability, contact the child’s teacher, who will contact Sarah Hunt here at the library. Home-schooling parents are also encouraged to contact Sarah at 715-463-2244.

New books September new books have been ordered. To reserve a copy of the book/books you would like to read, go to Merlin listings online at nwls.wislib.org and make your selections or check out the blue notebook on the circulation counter.

Hours The library will be closed Labor Day. Regular hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday noon to 6 p.m.

Wednesday 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and starting Sept. 6, the library will be open on Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon. Phone 715-463-2244.

Luck Area Historical Society to meet LUCK - As many of you know, the Luck Historical Museum has been open to visitors three days a week since Lucky Days, a month ago. While museum organization and exhibits are still in process, visitors seem happy to spend some time looking at what we presently have in place.

At our Thursday, Aug. 28, meeting, on the 28th, we will continue work on exhibits and also plan for our part in the building’s grand opening on Saturday, Sept.

13. We plan to have some special guests and exhibits to add interest to the formal grand opening program. We would like your help and ideas to make the historical society and Luck Museum a success.

We will meet at the new Luck Historical Museum on 3rd Avenue and Main Street. Everyone, member or not, is always welcome at our meetings which start at 7 p.m. and end about 9 p.m. We hope to see you there. - submitted

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Rid your home of hazardous chemicals correctly and for free The Northwest Cleansweep hazardous waste collection program, a Northwest Regional Planning Commission division that provides collection events to 10 counties in northwestern Wisconsin, will be accepting hazardous wastes, unwanted or unused medications (free) and electronics (for a fee) from household residents at all of its 10county Saturday collection events this summer.

The Saturday Washburn County Collection will be held in Spooner on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the HHW Storage Site. Please call Barton for directions at 715-635-2197. The prescription medication program is being made possible through a grant provided by the Rural Utilities Service of the Rural Development Administration, a United States Department of Agriculture unit.

This event (the NW Cleansweep Program) collects household hazardous waste from residents free of charge. It is a valuable program to our county because it provides an outlet for residents to safely dispose of potentially harmful substances — both for humans and for animals and the environment. Examples of items collected are: old gas and antifreeze, oil-based paints and stains, strippers, battery acid, herbicides, pesticides and insecticides, mercury-con-

taining items such as old thermometers and thermostats, pool chemicals, cell phones, photo chemicals, caustic cleaners, fertilizers, solvents, and many, many other items.

Also accepted the day of these collections for a fee are oil filters and fluorescent light bulbs (all types). Please call Barton at 715-6352197 for questions on where to dispose of tires, appliances and motor oil, or for fees charged for these items.

Some items are not hazardous and should not be brought to this special collection event. Examples of items not accepted: Latex paint (is nonhazardous and should be dried out and disposed of in your regular garbage), dried out latex paint cans (these are also garbage), alkaline batteries (currently are not accepted in our region for recycling, dispose of in regular garbage), and used motor oil. Call Barton for locations that accept this, or call your local service garage.

At the Saturday collection event in Spooner on Sept. 6 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., the NW Cleansweep Program will accept prescription and over-thecounter medications from residents free of charge. This may be a one-time col-

Jen Barton Earth Notes

lection so please take advantage of this special medication collection and keep our groundwater and water resources safe.

There are several important reasons to bring medications into this collection event. Up until now, most people have either thrown medications in the trash, flushed them down the toilet, or burned them with their trash in a burn barrel.

Utilizing these options present several environmental problems. Flushing of medications into the wastewater system means that ultimately these drugs will find their way into our lakes, rivers, streams, and drinking water. Many medications, when introduced into our natural waters, can lead to reproductive and developmental problems in fish and other aquatic wildlife. Studies have been done confirming these results.

Burning medications is illegal according to state law, because of the chemical pollutants that can be emitted from burning. Trashing medications can also ultimately result in water contamination because the chemicals break down when water (rain) percolates through the landfill layers. This liquid, called leachate, is typically pumped out of landfills at some point and treated at wastewater treatment plants.

The chemicals often make it through these wastewater treatment plants and then find their way back into our natural waters.

Besides the environmental effects of improper medication disposal, having these unused or expired medications at home can be a source of accidental in-

gestion, particularly for kids and pets who are more susceptible to poisoning.

If they are thrown in the trash, there is also the potential that persons may see discarded containers in your trash and use the medications for illegal purposes.

Household pharmaceuticals accepted at the collection events include prescription and over-the-counter medications such as: pills, capsules, ointments, liquids, sprays, creams, inhalers, vials and drops. Please note that no radioactive or chemotherapy medications will be accepted. Also, we cannot accept sharps, syringes, IV bags or tubing.

Please contact your health provider for disposal options for those materials.

Please leave the medications in their original containers so that they can be more easily identified. If you have privacy concerns, simply blacken out your personal information on the container – please leave the drug name on the bottle so it can be properly inventoried. We don’t need your name or other personal information.

Also at the Saturday collection, electronic items will be accepted for a fee.

Examples of items collected and fees are as follows: $18 each complete computer system; $16 each plastic or wood TVs; $6 each VCR or DVD player; $.35/lb. each laser printer; $.35/lb. each copier; $.35/lb. for misc. electronics stereo, boom box, record player, cassette player and cordless phones.

For questions regarding any of the above-mentioned collections please contact Barton at 715-635-2197, or e-mail her at jbarton@nwrpc.com.

The Leader is a cooperative owned newspaper

Investments I just received a personal communication addressed to postal patron from my local congressional bureaucrat. This is the same bureaucrat that was a Vietnam-era veteran when I was a Vietnam-era health care provider, which means neither one of us were “in country.” I don’t define myself by era and I am not sure what the point is.

The four pages of propaganda were paid for by me and I didn’t even vote for him, but I suppose it was an investment.

The last page is titled Pushing for a Comprehensive Energy Policy. His contention is that we wouldn’t have our current high fuel/energy prices if the federal government had invested in alternate sources and conservation back in 1981.

The federal government does not invest in anything; it simply redistributes tax proceeds and mandates spending. If the federal government had invested in oil exploration and nuclear power we would be much closer to energy independence. Show me one oil exploration platform or nuclear power plant that is not financed by private or corporate money. The only thing these bureaucrats accomplished in that time period was to legislate against oil exploration and nuclear power.

He suggests Big Oil is making too much money, failing to mention that taxes on that money is variously 40 percent and profits are variously 8 percent.

India and China are now competing for oil which increases prices when demand exceeds production. His solution is mandating fuel efficiency, regulate international commodity trading, divert oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, divert petroleum company profits to renewable fuels, sue OPEC and promote catchy phrase bills like Price Gouging Act that implies they are actually doing something.

This would be funny if it was intended to be a parody, but he’s serious.

I wonder if mandating him to ride a bike until the energy crisis is resolved would sharpen his mind.

Brooke Biedinger Irregular

Columnist

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Lamar Music Festival

Marilyn and Al Kruger were having fun on the dance floor Friday night, Aug. 15, at the Lamar Music Festival. The annual weekend-long festival was held at the 1905 Lamar School site, north of Hwy. 8 just east of St. Croix Falls.

Edie Julik, Taylors Falls, Minn., enjoyed a sunset visit with friends Barbie and Anna Luepke at the Lamar Music Festival Friday night. The annual music festival also featured food and beverages, children’s activities, and an art boutique by the Earth Arts Collective.

Zoe Allen listened to music from her spot on the dance floor at the Lamar Festival Friday night. The 2-year-old didn’t stay still for long and was soon dancing again to the Latin beat of the band Salsa Brosa.

The band Salsa Brosa, billed as the hottest Latin dance band out of the Twin Cities, didn’t disappoint Lamar Music Festival-goers Friday night as the crowd hit the floor dancing to the band’s Afro-Cuban rhythms.

Dancers, from the young to the not-so-young, were feeling the Latin rhythms as Salsa Brosa took the stage last Friday night at the Lamar Music Festival. The popular Twin Cities Latin band featured Afro-Cuban sounds and Grammy-award-winning pianist Viviana Pintado.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

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Church bicyclists travel Gandy Dancer

Members of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, Crystal, Minn., participated in their 21st-annual three-day bike ride. They biked on the Gandy Dancer Trail Thursday, Aug. 14, from Siren to Webster and back. Friday, Aug. 15, they took the trip from Siren to Frederic (pictured) and back and Saturday, Aug. 16, they rode from St. Croix Falls to Milltown and back. This is the second time they have ridden on the Gandy Dancer. The first time was 10 years ago. While in the area, this 100-person group camped at the Luther Point Bible Camp. On each trip the group takes, there is a camping crew that makes the meals and a bike mechanic who can fix any problem they may have with their cycle. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

Members of Cornerstone Church, Crystal, Minn., were in the area last Thursday-Saturday to ride the Gandy Dancer Trail. They stopped for breakfast at Main Street Café before beginning the first leg of the trip, going from Siren north to Jeffries Landing and back. – Photos by Nancy Jappe

It was raining quite hard when the Cornerstone Church group (105 in all) left Siren for the first leg of their trek on the Gandy Dancer Trail. They went that day, Thursday, Aug. 14, from Siren north to Jeffries Landing and back to Siren.

“This is our first 21st trip,” commented Jeanne Stephens.

This was their first trip with the new name of Cornerstone Church it was formerly Olivet Baptist Church.

Rain gear was required Thursday, Aug. 14, as the 105 Cornerstone Church bikers from Crystal, Minn., left Siren to go north on the Gandy Dancer Trail. The group was directed by Roger Schluessel, and they were staying at Luther Point Bible Camp near Grantsburg.

Benefit for Marty Niles II held in Siren

Lots of food was dished out during the benefit held for Marty Niles II at Kris Pheasant Inn in Siren on Saturday, Aug. 16. Niles is being cared for at Robbinsdale Rehab and Care Center in Robbinsdale, Minn., after he underwent two brain surgeries. He continues to get chemo treatments for the remaining cancerous brain tumor. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Adults and children played games to win prizes during the Marty Niles benefit on Saturday, Aug. 16. Activities and raffles brought in money to help the Niles family pay for medical expenses that have been accumulating since Marty’s first brain surgery Sunday, April 13.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Chicken meal, craft fair and pie social in Frederic

The pavilion next to the Frederic Depot was full much of the day on Saturday as people enjoyed the chicken and corn dinner cooked by the Northland Ambulance crew. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

These metal people rested their six-toed feet on a bench while waiting to be purchased during the craft show held in Frederic.

Todd Miller helped work by cooking sweet corn during the Northland Ambulance 14th-annual Chicken and Corn Dinner fundraiser held in Frederic on Saturday, Aug. 16.

People that didn’t have time to sit and mingle with others while enjoying their chicken dinner made by the Northland Ambulance crew, they were able to get to-go boxes to take food with them.

While shopping at the craft fair and eating the chicken and corn dinner, people visiting Frederic were also able to get a sweet treat. Pie was available from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Frederic Depot Museum.

Booties were one of the many knitted pieces people could purchase during the Frederic Chamber of Commerce Annual Craft Show on Saturday, Aug. 16.

Young ladies checked out one of the jewelry stand’s necklaces during the Frederic Chamber of Commerce craft show held across from the Frederic Depot on Saturday, Aug. 16.

A little girl waits patiently while whipped cream is added to her blueberry pie during the pie social held at the Frederic Depot Museum on Saturday, Aug. 16.

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OKTOBERFEST in August

Waitin’ on the country tunes, this young man ended up dancing to polka tunes instead at the annual Oktoberfest in Danbury, Saturday. The event featured food, fun, drink and dancing beneath a bit top tent.

Mark La Course and the Schuftplattler Gruppe Edelweis of St. Paul entertained at Saturday’s Oktoberfest celebration, held each August in Danbury.

Members of S.G. Edelweiss of St. Paul, a group dedicated to teaching traditional Bavarian and Austrian folk dance and culture, were part of the annual Oktoberfest at Danbury, Saturday, Aug. 16. The event, organized by Klaus Neider, was held this year in a large tent at the baseball field.

Peter Neider, brother of organizer Klaus Neider, did his part to feed the crowds that gathered for the Oktoberfest.

Dan Zimmer put together the Dan Zimmer Polka Band to play exclusively for the Oktoberfest, a once-a-year performance for the group. At left, a young dancer waits for the director to strike up the band and another polka tune.

Photos by Gary King

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Frederic Class of 1963 holds 45th class reunion

Shown are back row (L to R): Ed Nelson of Cedar, Minn.; Dale DesJardins of Frederic; Gary Gjonnes of Frederic; Frank Svoboda of Osceola; Jim Rovney of Mankato, Minn.; Gerry Potvin of Grantsburg and Dan Hederman of Columbia Heights, Minn. Front row: Sylvia (Wahl) of Frederic; Mary Ann (Hill) Odden of Cumberland; Marjorie (Hill) Hess of Maple Grove, Minn.; Karen (Peterson) Svoboda of Osceola; Betty (Potter) Schilling of Woodbury, Minn., and Larry Jensen of Frederic.

Shown are back row (L to R): Lowell Carlson of St. Croix Falls; Neil Tietz of Frederic; Gary Brunclik of Osceola; Jim Kurkowski of Boise, Idaho; Wayne Olson of Lake Elmo, Minn., and Ray Engen of Frederic. Front row: Jan (Anderson) Grest of Hudson; Gloria (Linder) Krueger of Malone; Bea (Callaway) Nelson of Dresser; Vicki (Asper) Johnson of St. Croix Falls and Teressa (Anderson) Jensen of Amery. – Photos submitted

Grantsburg Class of 1948 holds 60th Reunion

The Grantsburg High School Class of 1948 held their 6oth reunion on Saturday evening, Aug. 9, at the Pour House in Siren. Only 12 were present out of the class of 47 graduates along with eight spouses. Everyone enjoyed being together sharing memories and having a meal. Classmates present were: Front row: Elizabeth (Larson) Branstad, Eileen (Martinson) Lundequam and Carol (Lundberg) Isaacson. Middle row: Carol (Thor) Johnson, Evangeline (Fisk) Schadow and Raymond Tollander. Back row: Donald Brenizer, Gene Benson, Verner Dahlberg, Edward Magnuson, Cleo Sandberg and Jack Hedlund. – Photo submitted

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Amery High School 50-year reunion set AMERY – Members of the Amery High School graduating Class of 1958 will hold their 50-year reunion on the weekend of the fall festival.

There will be an early arrivals get-together on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Shoreview Supper Club at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is on their own for drinks, dinner.

Golfers needed to make their own arrangements at the Amery Golf Course.

On Saturday, Sept. 13, be at the parade launching site if you want to ride in the

parade. Meet at 5:30 p.m. at the Amery Golf Course for no-host cocktails. 6 p.m., buffet dinner.

Any AHS alumni who are in town are invited to join us after dinner on Saturday around 8:30 p.m., at the golf clubhouse for a chance to visit.

If you graduated from AHS in 1958, and haven’t received a reservations letter, or have any questions, please contact Ruth Hard at 715-698-4985. – submitted

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

Unity graduate gains unique experience from symposium

by Rachel Westberg Chetek Alert CHETEK – Summer may be time off from the rigors of school for students and teachers, but there are still a select few who use the time to prepare themselves for the upcoming school year.

Some even have fun while doing it. Case in point: Chetek Middle School band director Amanda Ogren.

Ogren, daughter of Ken and Joan Ogren of Luck and a 2002 graduate of Unity High School, spent a week at the Music For All Summer Symposium, a camp for music students.

This was the third year Ogren has been involved with the symposium, which began for her June 19 at Illinois State University in Normal, Ill. Ogren served as a member of the team of volunteers who act as counselors, staff assistants and role models to the student participants.

Ogren explained that the camp starts the weekend prior to the regular symposium with a leadership session for students, who act as mentors to other campers at the symposium when they arrive later in the weekend. As a volunteer, she worked in the various sessions with a curriculum based on leadership.

Once the rest of the students arrive, there are different tracks that participants can explore; a director’s track, which works with music education or graduate students who want to be directors; a concert-band track, a color-guard track, a drum-majorette academy, an orchestra track, a jazz-band track, a percussion track and a marching band track.

Ogren worked with the marching band camp under the direction of Richard Saucedo, a top marching-band director at Carmel High School in Carmel, Ind. Each night the symposium has a concert featuring the various tracks. Every year a drum corps performs with the marching-band track group. Ogren’s group played with the Cavaliers Bugle and Drum Corps out of Illi-

Chetek Middle School band director Amanda Ogren, shown giving a lesson to sixth-grader Brandon Books. Ogren recently returned to her duties at the school after participating as a volunteer for the Music For All Summer Symposium, a camp for music students. – Photo by Rachel Westberg, The Chetek Alert nois.

Ogren oversaw 24 girls as a volunteer, leading discussions and activities. It is this interaction with the students that she enjoyed the most.

“Lots of students come back three to four times,” she said. “Our goal is to give these students life-changing experiences. After camp may of them cannot wait to go back to their schools or groups and teach them what they’ve learned.”

Ogren added that working with the faculty and students excites her to return to Chetek and teach her middle school students.

“I hope my kids can take on the positive attitude of what I see at the camp,’ Ogren said.

Ogren explained that 1,500-1,600 students attend the session. Essentially anyone who applies as a student can attend. To be a volunteer, however, is selective.

Hundreds of applications come through for volunteers, but only 65 made it this year as volunteers. The group does not receive monetary compensation, but Ogren notes she gains more just by having the experience.

“I’ve always been a shy person,” admits Ogren. “So getting up the nerve to start communication at a meal or just interact with students made me get out of my shell.”

The symposium is also an opportunity for Ogren to receive professional development. As she observes the workshop sessions, she takes notes on what the instructors are telling the campers, and she often asks questions of the instructors. But perhaps what Ogren gains most from the camp experience is an ability to spread the positive atmosphere of the symposium into Chetek’s band room.

“I keep asking myself, ‘Am I putting things in a positive light?’” said Ogren. “Am I encouraging students?

Am I making a positive band classroom? The kids have learned that I am big on working together. I don’t care if our band has great individual musicians. A band doesn’t work if you cannot play together.”

Annual town potluck pinic held at Dongola School

On Sunday, Aug. 17, about 60 current and former residents of the town of Sand Lake gathered for the annual town potluck picnic, held at the town hall, the former Dongola School. Residents enjoyed good food, conversation and great summer weather. Many commented on the improvements that have been made to the school by the township over the past few years, including a newly paved driveway and parking areas, refinished floors, exterior painting, new roof and a new perennial garden. Betty Leef and her two daughters, as well as Dean and Shirley Burgess, were credited for their efforts to make this 50-plus-year tradition a success. - from Peggy Tolbert, clerk for the town of Sand Lake. Photo submitted

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AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Memories meant to be shared

by Priscilla Bauer ROCK CREEK, Minn. - The invitation went out to “Come and share your stories and photos of the St.Croix River.”

And come they did, with more than a yarn or two to tell and pictures that were indeed worth a thousand words.

Last Saturday, Aug. 16, St. Croix River Memory Day hosted by National Park Service personnel at the Marshland Center, just across the Hwy. 70 bridge west of Grantsburg, brought visitors eager to tell their memorable St. Croix River experiences.

Richard Freeman from Wyoming, Minn., recalled times at his cabin just north of the Marshland Visitor’s Center.

One vivid memory Freeman recalled was watching a group of young children struggling to catch a big catfish. Once they landing it, they proudly brought it to shore only to have the fish throw up a baby otter. After seeing firsthand fish could and do eat baby otters, the youngsters were so upset none of them wanted to take their catch home to eat.

Harley and Lois Lindus’ red cabin on stilts, located south of Raspberry Landing and the Powell farmstead, always stood out to river travelers for its very different look. The Lindus family cherished their cabin time and each member of the family have, as Lois put it, “their own lists of dear and never-forgotten memories.” The land on which the cabin stood was once owned by Northern States Power Company, then became property of the NPS when the St.Croix was designated a National Scenic Riverway. The Lindus were given a 25-year lease on the cabin by the park service and just a few weeks after the cabin reverted back to the NPS, it burned down, having just been deemed by the Wisconsin State Historical Society eligible for the National Historic Registry.

“I have just been fascinated with what people have been telling us about the river,” said Park Ranger Jean Vantatenhove. “We have heard some very interesting stories today. I’ve learned a lot.”

Vantatenhove said park service personnel took the opportunity to ask Memory Day visitors to sign up for oral history appointments. “We’ve been getting contact information and sharing photos, too.”

Several visitors brought their own treasured St. Croix River photos, adding them to the large photo exhibit set up by Julie Johnson for the Memory Day event visitors to view. Johnson’s exhibit featured photos of six 1920s cabins at Pearl Springs Camp.

“It went very well,” St. Croix Scenic Riverway Park historian Jean Schaeppi said of the day. “We had about 50 visitors. There was a larger group, former cabin owners from the old railroad bridge and the Pearl Springs areas represented. People were talking about all

Lois Lindus recalls her cherished family times at their Red cabin on the St. Croix River: The gathering of river folk for a St. Croix Memory Day at the Marshland Center brought beloved memories to mind of a place and time span dear beyond expression.

Our cabin, the yard graced with huge, river-nourished trees, the lovely river itself meant all this and inexpressibly more.

Sun-drenched days made for children, especially, it seemed, the gift of the unexpected catch at the end of your fishing line, swimming, daring divers launched at rope swing’s end, wading to sand bar to enjoy the gentle beach, learning the river’s channel and where your canoe could easily glide through the resident rocks.

Canoeists passing and the exchange of smiles and waves, friends coming to share the cabin’s golden magic. Food was always delicious there and appetites were keen.

Spring peepers, wild asparagus and lilacs from the Powell farmstead graced May’s cabin opening celebration. Summer’s whippoorwills serenaded the nights against the backdrop of the river’s murmur.

Bubbles appeared on the river’s surface in late afternoon and made their merry way downstream.

August meant delaying bedtime to watch meteorite showers out on the wide meadow, sometimes hearing the splashes of drinking deer.

Each member of our family has their own lists like this, held dear and never forgotten.

The river, the cabin, was our joy, our blessing, our beloved retreat.

Our Brigadoon. kinds of experiences, from the rope swings they swung on into the river, to where they canoed over the years.

“People commented on how much they enjoyed hearing the ‘old-timers’ stories. There was just a variety of recollections from logging times to the present.

We learned some interesting tidbits of history.”

Schaeppi said information gathered at the Memory Day will be displayed in a variety of ways. “We are gathering histories and we will be deciding the best way to make them available to the public.”

Schaeppi said she hopes there will be more Memory Days in the future and if people would like to share their stories they can bring them to the Marshland Center, the NPS visitor in St. Croix Falls or go to the Web site: www.nps.gov/ sacn.

Richard Freeman came from Wyoming, Minn., to the St. Croix River Memory Day last Saturday to share his recollections of times spent on the river. Freeman, whose cabin was located just north of the National Park Service’s Marshland Visitor Center on Hwy. 70 west of Grantsburg, told NPS rangers Jean Vantatenhove and Katie Worrell about times spent at his cabin years ago.

National Park Service Ranger Katie Worrell holds up a display of St. Croix River photos from years past. Worrell and other NPS personnel collected contact information and set up oral history appointments with visitors to the St. Croix River Memory Day, Saturday, August 16. This was the first memory day held at the Marshland Visitor Center across the Hwy. 70 bridge in Minnesota, with more memory days planned for the future. - Photos by Priscilla Bauer

A photo display of six 1920s cabins at Pearl Spring Camp was compiled by Julie Johnson. The display was a focal point for visitors to the St. Croix River Memory Day held last Saturday at the NPS Marshland Visitor Center at the Hwy. 70 bridge west of Grantsburg.

More than 50 visitors came to share their memories of the river as part of the first Memory Day at the St. Croix River last Saturday, Aug. 16. The event was hosted by National Park Service personnel, including St. Croix Scenic Riverway historian Jean Schaeppi. Schaeppi said she learned some very interesting tidbits of history from the river accounts shared by visitors attending the event.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

Frederic seven-12 School gets ready for the 2008-09 school year FREDERIC – The Frederic High School/Middle School office staff and maintenance staff are in the midst of finalizing things for the beginning of the 200809 school year. Items that have been completed or in the process of being completed include hiring of staff, scheduling of staff and students, organizing handbooks and procedures, revising policies and doing the maintainence necessary for the beginning of the year. The fall athletic season has already begun with high school football starting on Aug. 12, and high school volleyball and cross country starting on Aug. 18. Middle-school football also started on Aug. 18 and middle school volleyball starts on Aug. 25. Students interested in participating in these activities can still sign up by calling the high school office 715-327-4223.

The hiring of staff for the 2008-09 school year has been completed. There will be three new staff members at the seven-12 school for the coming year. Cara Casey has been hired as the seven-12 guidance counselor and will be available for students during the week of Aug. 25 through Aug. 29, along with regular office hours once school begins. Other new staff members include Ryan Pagenkopf in the business and computers department, and Kassie Baillie as the seventh- and eighthgrade math and language arts instructor.

In addition to new staff there are also some other changes that students and parents will become aware of as the school year begins. The Frederic seven-12 School will be implementing a change in the grading system used this year by converting to a 4.0 system from the previous 12.0 system. The 4.0 system is the preferred grading scale used by most post-high-school institutions and is also the more common grading scaled used in high schools throughout the state of Wisconsin. The

honor roll and academic letter programs that are available to students will also be adjusted accordingly. In addition to the change in the grading scale, the high school will also be instituting a modified weighted grading system for the ’08-09 school year. Classes that will be considered for weighted grades are those that originate from colleges and other post-high-school institutions and other local classes that are considered advanced in standing and/or have a national advanced-placement test correlated to them.

The Frederic School District, both high school and elementary, will be introducing a new parent access option for the coming school year. The district has purchased a new student software program for this coming and the program is called PowerSchool. One of the components of PowerSchool that made it especially attractive to district staff members is the parent access option. Parents who are online at home will be able to access information about their child’s academic program throughout the school year with this program.

Information will not be accessible with the start of the school year but it will be available at some time during the school year once all the issues and concerns with the program have been worked out. Information will be provided families/parents when the program is ready to be activated and it is hoped that it is up and running no later than the beginning of the second semester.

The district and seven-12 school are also introducing and updating policies in anticipation of the new school year. One such change is a new partnership with Bernick’s Pepsi concerning the availability of soft drinks in schools during the school day. In conjunction with its Healthy Schools Program, the Alliance for Healthier

X X

Generation met with representatives from beverage companies and the American Beverage Association, to develop a set of guidelines related to the sale of beverages in our nation’s schools. Basically, the guidelines state that there is no pop to be sold in the student arena during the regular and extended school day, and the beverage choices available during the school day are limited to water options, juices and milk. The servings for these beverage choices are also reduced to meet new guidelines. The guidelines do not cover concession stands open during athletic and other extracurricular activities. A more detailed summary of the guidelines is available in the seven-12 school office for anybody who would like more information.

The individual schools are also reinforcing district policies concerning cell phone and technology use. The district understands that cell phones can be a very useful communication tool for students and their parents.

Cell phones can also be a very large disruption to the educational environment. District polices state that cell phones are not to be used in the school setting during the traditional school day beginning with the time students come to school in the morning until the end of the day at 3:22 p.m. Cell phones are to be turned off and kept in secure places during the school day. Students are welcome to use their phones after school has been dismissed for the day. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary action and parents are asked to support this policy to minimize problems and issues.

Parents wanting to communicate with their child can do so by calling the school office at anytime during the day. – submitted

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Golden Spike winners announced

The Griffiths boys and their dad check out the Golden Spike clues posted at Gandy Dancer Books during Gandy Dancer Days in Webster. Zachary, 9, Nicholas, 13 and Jacob, 10, later found the spike, hidden behind a slushy drink sign at Connor’s Service Station. This was the second year in a row the Griffiths family has solved the clues to find the spike. The boys received a $50 check for finding and returning the spike. The hunt for the Golden Spike and other Gandy Dancer Days events were sponsored by the Webster Area Chamber of Commerce. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

A fascinating place, right in our backyard, that we discovered last week – the Minnesota History Center. The Taylors Falls Historical Society sponsored the visit, or rather, the experience, that immersed us in an earlier age. I had visited the center many times, but only as far as the second floor library, for research purposes, missing the attractions just one floor above.

One exhibit was called “Weather Permitting,” a film that included a frighteningly realistic tornado-experience; another was “Grainland,” which permitted us to step inside a 24-ton box car and climb around a model grain elevator. “Tales of the Territory,” which included a real live singing and dancing theater event; “Ellis Island Portraits 1905-1920,” faces that expressed the immigrant experience; “MN150,” celebrating Minnesota’s sesquicentennial with a show that highlights 150 people, places and things that helped form the state, including early flight; and “Open House: If These Walls Could Talk,” an interactive look at 50 different families who lived in one St. Paul house over the last century, with the furniture, fixtures and memorabilia of the people themselves.

Exhibits are constantly updated and rotated, with “Vatican Splendors”

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Braatz

A St. Croix

Tale

“Held in the Heartland” German POWs in the Midwest, 1943-46 museum exhibit BUS-eum 3, a traveling “Traces” exhibit –will be in the Overlook parking lot, downtown St. Croix Falls from 3 to 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 29

Shown (L to R) are Zachary Griffiths, 9; Nicholas Griffith, 13 and Jacob Griffiths 10, of Elk River, Minn.

scheduled to start Saturday, Sept. 27, displaying 200 works of art and significant objects, many of which have never before left the VatThere’s also Rosemarie ican. a café and gift shops. For hours, Vezina the phone number is 651-2593000.

And, of course, another outstanding museum – Sponsored by closer to home – is maintained by the St. Croix Falls Historical our own Polk County Historical Society Society, at Balsam Lake, which has just recently installed an elevator in their stately building. They have scheduled a potluck picnic at Balsam Lake’s Pine Park, 311 Tuttle, 5 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 26, with entertainment by the St. Croix Ojibwe Trails Youth Dance Troupe, which has performed at events throughout the world. For more information, call the museum at 715485-9269.

ST. CROIX FALLS - “Traces” brings this unusual, rich story to life through the creation of the BUS-eum 3—a 40-foot school bus converted into a mobile classroom and museum. The exhibit consists of 15 narrative display panels illustrated with photographs and documents, audio and DVD documentaries, artifacts and more.

The German POWs held in U.S. Armyoperated camps across the United States were sent out to harvest or process crops, build roads and waterways, fell trees, roof barns, erect silos, work in light nonmilitary industry, lay city sewers and construct tract housing, wash U.S. Army laundry and do other practical wartime tasks. With the high rate of 19th-century German immigration to the Midwest, many of those who worked with POWs spoke to them in their native tongue; some even had relatives or former neighbors among them. In the process, they formed significant, often decades-long friendships with “the enemy” and underwent considerable changes as indi-

viduals and as a group—thus fundamentally influencing postwar German values and institutions, as well as AmericanGerman relations. A number of POWs even chose to immigrate to the United States after the war.

“Held in the Heartland” explores the human context of the POW experiences.

Implicitly, it addresses five primary questions: —Were German POWs generally treated well or poorly while held captive in the United States? How has the treatment accorded to enemy POWs during the World War II impacted the standing of the United States both in Europe and in the world at large?

—In which contexts and settings did German POWs encounter Midwesterners? Were those encounters generally positive or negative? For which side— and what were the lasting impacts of those encounters?

—What role did art play in the POWs experience?

—How did the POWs’ perceptions of the United States, of Americans and of democracy evolve from the point of their arrival in the U.S. (generally from 194345) till their departure from the U.S. (in summer 1946), as well as once they returned to Germany (or Austria)?

—How did the German POW experience affect German-American relations, both immediately after the war and for the half century thereafter?

Brought to you by the St Croix Falls Public Library. “Traces” – we bring history to life! – submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

Dress made for girl from Peru to celebrate 15th birthday

by Kelly Nargis, as presented at the Frederic Evangelical Free Church FREDERIC – This is the story of an extraordinary experience. Those of us involved, Kathryn Dikkers, her daughter Haley, Kassi Craker, Nora Asper, and myself (Kelly Nargis), began referring to it affectionately as “Operation Cinderella.” Even though Operation Cinderella is a story in itself, it’s really a retelling of a much older story that many have read over and over in the Bible. It’s a story of God’s love for us, His compassion for us, His plans for us and His desire to work in us and to work through us.

This story is also about a lovely young girl from Peru named Diana. Twelve years ago Diana lost her mother and then experienced many years of pain and suffering in several places until she finally arrived at a girls home called Comunidad Cristiana Fe En Accion (Christian Community Faith in Action). This girls home is managed by missionaries Jim and Toni Anderson, whose mission, through which the home is run, is Paonia Christian Fellowship – Peru Mission.

The Andersons are staying in Frederic this summer while on furlough. Recently, they were given permission to adopt 15-year-old Diana and found out that the adoption hearing would be on Diana’s 15th birthday. In Latin American countries, every girl and her family dream about and plan for her “quinceanera,” the 15th birthday celebration. It’s one of the most special days for her.

There is a big, formal party and she wears a beautiful, formal gown.

Just before Toni and Jim’s trip back to Peru for the adoption, Toni realized it would be nice for Diana to have a formal dress for her birthday. She had some people in Peru planning a surprise party, but had no dress yet. And, it was very important that the dress be floor-length, have a high scoop neckline and puffed short sleeves – a Cinderella dress. While praying for God to provide such a dress, Toni pictured it in pink satin.

Toni approached Kathryn, asking her if she could help find such a dress before they left for Peru. Kathryn spread the word, and girls all over the area were checking their closets for prom dresses and pageant gowns that might work. But dresses with these specifications are dif-

Missionaries Jim and Toni Anderson pray with Diana and their PCF Peru Mission administrator, Juan Lujan, during Diana’s birthday celebration. There was an adoption hearing for the Andersons to become Diana’s parents that same day. – Photos submitted ficult to come by these days.

Tuesday night Kathryn began praying and her friend Nora Asper came to mind. Nora is a professional seamstress who lives only a block from Kathryn.

Would she know of somebody who had the right dress or maybe have the materials needed to make one? Should Kathryn even ask Nora? So began a long series of coincidences to make a Cinderella dress come true.

Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. when Kathryn drove by Nora’s house on her way back from the grocery store, Nora happened to be standing in her driveway. So, taking it as a sign from God, Kathryn stopped. After explaining the situation to her, Nora asked Kathryn to return that afternoon – she thought she might have pink satin and other supplies.

Later that morning, I called Kathryn to discuss some VBS planning details, and Kathryn told me all about the search for a dress for Diana. When Kathryn told me that the dress would have to be sewn, I nearly fell over. Before I had gotten out of bed that morning, I had decided I was

Diana models her formal gown during her 15th-birthday celebration in Peru.

People of Frederic who know Diana’s adoptive parents, Jim and Toni Anderson, made the gown for her “quinceanera.”

going to spend my day sewing. My husband would be home from work just in time to take our children to a library program later, so I was available and ready to start cutting.

Toni was notified and gave us Diana’s measurements – they were two years old, but we had something to work with and decided to trust the Lord to help us with that detail. She was also free to help out with what she could.

Excitement doesn’t even begin to describe our feelings. But our fire for this project was almost entirely snuffed out when Kathryn and I realized our huge misunderstanding: we didn’t have nine days to make a formal gown – we had a day and a half! Toni and Jim were to leave that Friday at 4:30 a.m.! As a professional, Nora can take 45-50 hours to make a dress like this. How could we, amateurs, who’d never made a formal gown before, pull it off in less than two days? And then we wisely remembered that we couldn’t. But “with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26) We knew we had to try or we’d always wonder, “What did God want to do that we didn’t have the faith to let Him use us for?”

So we met at Nora’s house that afternoon. Amazingly, we found every needed item down to the 20-inch palepink zipper. By 4:30 p.m. we were setting up shop with four sewing machines and help from Kassi and Haley.

Thankfully, Nora’s evening freed up and she was able to help as well.

While we were busy working, Nora told us how she’d intended to sell this fabric several times over the years, but just held onto it for some reason. She’d had it for 12 years. Twelve years ago, Diana had lost her mother and the years of horrible suffering and abuse began. “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord...“plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11) The Lord knew the day Diana’s mother died in Peru that Nora, in Luck would save this newly purchased pink satin fabric for over a decade so that after terrible suffering, Diana could feel like a princess for her quinceanera. We had to get this dress made.

We sewed until midnight without a mistake and had the necessary alterations planned and the bodice of the dress completed. At 10 a.m. the next morning we started again. This morning wasn’t to go so smoothly though. Our faith would be tested more than once.

To our horror, I accidentally cut the skirt five inches too short! “We’re done; it’s ruined. There’ll be no dress for Diana,” we thought. I, for one, felt sick.

But after a moment, we decided to go ahead and we could add some lace to the

bottom later. As it turned out, if I had cut the skirt any longer we wouldn’t have had enough fabric for the whole dress.

And, when Toni stopped by later, she said that the length was perfect. I’ve thanked God many times over for that “mistake.”

Soon after that problem, we realized that we didn’t have enough of the white organza fabric needed for the skirt overlay. Kathryn ran to Wal-mart and found the exact fabric. After the needed material was cut, only 30 inches of it was left on the bolt. Kathryn walked out of the store with tears in her eyes, praising the Lord.

By early afternoon, we were sewing the satin roses to go around the skirt when Kathryn’s mom showed up. There we sat making our sad little flowers when Joyce walked in, saw what we were doing and told us that she’d made scores of these flowers for an anniversary party years back. The job was hers and the roses turned out gorgeously.

We thought the dress should have a crinoline under the skirt to poof it out some. Kathryn remembered the crinoline hanging in her closet for the past 15 years without use. It now belonged to Diana.

Haley had shared with us that she had it in her heart to give Diana a gold chain.

Toni arrived again to show us the gold heart-shaped locket that she and Jim had planned to give Diana, but the chain’s clasp was broken. Haley promptly retrieved the perfect-length gold chain from her bedroom.

At 10:45 p.m. Haley, Kassi, Kathryn and I finished the last hand-stitched details of the dress. At 11 p.m. we delivered the pink satin gown with full lining, white organza overlay and a dozen hand-sewn roses – including some for her hair.

We were all amazed that God chose to meet this girl’s need like this. Why not just have the dress in someone’s closet?

Why not just buy it at a thrift store?

God specializes in making beauty from pain, creating loveliness where there is desperation and doing it in a manner that will always bring the credit to him.

He revels in bringing extravagant gifts to his loved ones. Gifts He has planned out for years in advance – to surprise us, to show us how much He loves us, how much He watches out for His own. And He often does it through the hands of other people.

The same story is told over and over, starting in Genesis and ending in Revelation when He makes all things new. It will be replicated over and over again because that’s what God does. He takes our pain, our messes, our sorrows and makes them new.

How many miracles are awaiting each of us? How many impossible things do we hope for that perhaps are waiting around the bend? We will never know what could be if we never take the chance to trust Him. If we stubbornly disbelieve His desire and ability to help us, and never move our hearts and feet to His direction, we will never see His hand moving or working. We will never see how He can work through us and in us. He has sent us all an invitation to the ball and is waiting for our response. Will we accept that invitation? Will we get on our feet and dance with Him? The prophet Isaiah predicts Jesus’ purposes in chapter 61. “He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners…to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair…Instead of their shame my people will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and everlasting joy will be theirs.”

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

CHURCH NEWS Remember, What?

Following at a distance I often lagged behind my mom when I was little to check out the things around me. Sometimes I felt rebellious, wanting to do things my own way. Other times I simply was curious. Whatever the reason, my reluctance to stay close to her brought backside results.

Nowadays, with the scare of perverted predators on the loose, it seems more important than ever for little kids to stick close to Perspectives Mama rather than following at a distance. Baby animals must stick close to Mama, too, to avoid their own kind of predators waiting to devour them.

The Bible records an incident of someone following Jesus at a distance which brought negative results. In the Garden of Gethsemane, when Peter realized that Jesus was allowing himself to be taken in for questioning and torturing, Peter “followed at a distance.” From that point, things fell apart for the disciple. He watched the terrible proceedings furtively, lied and cursed when confronted with his identity as a follower of Jesus, and finally broke down in tears of remorse.

Peter had stayed on the fringes. His fleshly desires for safety and anonymity overtook his desires to follow Jesus, his master, teacher and close friend. Like Peter, some of us want the full knowledge of Christ and long to advance on the narrow path that leads to eternal life. But we follow him at a distance, resisting the up-closeness to God which is meant to push us into a deeper relationship with Christ. For many, going to church every Sunday morning for an hour is close enough.

When we follow Christ at a distance, we miss out on knowing him more deeply. We see him in the haze of our worldly wishes, such as comfort and safety, rather than in the light of his glory. Like Peter, we are tempted by sin.

God doesn’t want us to lag behind his chosen path.

He doesn’t want us to follow a path chosen by friends or family or even our own fleshly desires. Jesus said, “Abide in me, and I in you.” (John 15:4) Abiding means to adhere to, cling to, remain in him. He calls us all to follow him closely.

Lord, keep us from following you at a distance. Rather, may our strong desire be to abide with you, for through you alone do we receive all that we need. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com or http:bairbonesblog.blogspot.com)

Sally Bair Eternal

How many times has a willing Bible student looked at a passage of Scripture – read it, looked away, and immediately forgot what it said? He says to himself; “What did I just read? What did it mean?” Everyone has been there.

Frustration and irritation set in and then the Bible sits for long periods of time… unopened and unlearned… as the TV is instead allowed to be switched on and we have garbage (usually) spoon-fed to us for hours at a time.

The disciples who heard Jesus Preacher’s teach often needed reminders and clarification of His teachings. This comforting fact is mentioned because all disciples today (students of Jesus’ teachings) fail in remembering and committing to memory His words the way we ought to. However, this excuse must not overshadow the responsibility. We have to make a diligent effort to study. (Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. - 2 Timothy 2:15) In fact, if we are to be His disciples we must remember the words of both Jesus and the apostles.

(Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. - Jude 3). What are some practical things that can help?

Repetition of Verse: As the old adage goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” This is helpful with Bible study. One man said, “What the mind repeats is what the mind retains.” Many times Jesus repeated His teachings at different times and in different ways, so that they would “get it” (Compare Matthew chapters 5-7 and Luke chapter 6). Scripture should permeate the lives of Christians. (Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I com-

Garret Derouin The Pen

mand you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. -Deuteronomy 6:4-9; But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. – 2 Timothy 3:14-17) It must be read, repeatedly, for as long as it takes to “get it.” Never give up!

Removal of Vice: This society is built to distract!

Seldom can a person go for any length of time without checking e-mail or sports scores, watching a new movie or television show, or shopping for new fishing or hunting equipment, etc. All of these things are not necessarily wrong; however, when they cause a Christian to become repeatedly distracted from diligent Bible study, or prayer, or meditation, then these devices can become vices. Jesus often went away to lonely places to contemplate the spiritual (Matt 14:13; Mark 1:35; 6:31). As His disciples, shouldn’t we retreat even more often and diligently from distractions in order to commune with God’s word!

Next week we will continue to look at more ways in which we can remember and have a better understanding of the Bible, the most important book any of us will ever read. (Adapted from an Article by Andy Baker) If readers have questions or simply wish to know more about the Church of Christ, we would like to invite them to call 715-866-7157 or stop by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Office hours are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. noon.

Swedish Fiddlers perform at Siren United Methodist

A group of young fiddlers from Rattvik in the Dalarna region of Sweden showed their skills during a performance at Siren United Methodist Church Thursday, Aug. 14. A second concert was given the following evening at Falun Baptist Church. The Swedish young people were joined by fiddlers from the Twin Cities along with a fiddler and a flute player from Ireland (shown on the right in the photo). Their ages ranged from 11 to 18 or 19. This was the Swedish director’s third visit to Burnett County, and her group was housed by local families.

RIGHT: Rudy Solomonson, a member of Siren United Methodist Church, introduced the fiddlers who performed at the church Thursday, Aug. 14.

Siren has a Swedish heritage, and a number of church members are of Swedish descent.

Solomonson was in charge of housing and other arrangements for the visiting fiddlers and those traveling with them.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

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PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

OBITUARIES Arthur P. Branstad

Arthur P. Branstad, New Hope, Minn., formerly of Siren, died Aug. 11, 2008. He was 97 years old.

He was born July 31, 1911, to Anna (Thorsen) and Edward Branstad in Leland, Iowa. Art and his brother, Wilfred, relocated with their parents to Clam Falls, where the family farm was purchased.

Art married Genevieve Kendrick on Feb. 11, 1933, and took over operating the family farm until 1942. They then moved to Frederic where Art took a brief job at the Frederic bakery. Later, he became the manager of the Stella Cheese Creamery in Milltown where he worked for 19 years. And in 1961, Art opened the Sears Catalog Store in Frederic and operated it until he retired in 1974.

Art and Genevieve (“Babe”) continued to live in Frederic raising two sons. They were long-standing members of the Assembly of God Church in Siren, where Art led the activities of the church’s Sunday school.

In 2001, he became a resident of the Capeside Cove Nursing Home in Siren.

After it’s closing in 2007, Art was transferred to the Ambassador Nursing Home in New Hope, Minn.

Art enjoyed travel, golfing, sporting events of all types and Bible study.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

He is survived by his sons, Lowell (Bonnie) and David (Ann); five grandchildren, Cindy Olson, Randy Branstad, Dwayne Branstad, Tara Branstad and Rachel Branstad; nine great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Friday, Aug. 15, at Siren Assembly of God Church in Siren. Music was provided by soloist, Sarah Cavalier, and special music by the Rev. Craig Jorgenson. Interment was in Maple Grove Cemetery in Frederic.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic, was entrusted with arrangements.

Lorraine Mary Mauer

Every photo is in color in our e-edition.

Check it out www.the-leader.net

Lorraine Mary Mauer, 86, Luck, died at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center in St. Croix Falls on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2008.

Lorraine was born on Aug. 17, 1921, in Wahpeton, N.D., the daughter of William and Rose (Heine) Matheson. She grew up in Wahpeton, where she was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Lorraine graduated from Breckenridge High School in 1939. She went on to attend the State School of Science in Wahpeton. On Oct. 16, 1946, she was united in marriage to James Kosek and they made their home in Wahpeton where their three children were born.

On Dec. 27, 1980, she married Eugene Mauer in St. Paul, Minn. They moved to Bone Lake in 1984. Lorraine served as the town clerk for Georgetown for six years. She enjoyed bowling, flower gardening, knitting and crocheting as well

as reading.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Gene; daughters, Jeanne (Virgil) DeVine and Carol (Ken) Luebke; son, Bill (Sara) Kosek; sisters, Baris (Lynal) Oscarson and Darlene Leland. She also leaves 10 grandchildren and several great grandchildren as well as other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Monday, Aug. 18, at Bone Lake Lutheran Church with Pastor Mary Ann Bowman officiating. Organist was Dana Paulsen. Casket bearers were Scott Giwoyna, Corey Giwoyna, Jayme Giwoyna, Jessie Young, Steven Cardinal, Gary Cardinal, Jennifer Christopherson and Dawn Clyne. Interment was at the Holy Rosary Cemetery.

The Williamson-White Funeral Home, Amery, was entrusted with arrangements.

Margel L. Gulden Margel L. Gulden, 73, of Danbury, died Tuesday, July 29, 2008, at Grantsburg.

She was born Sept. 27, 1934, to Margaret (Taylor) and Stewart Davis in Danbury.

Margel married Richard Gulden and they raised their family in South St. Paul, Minn., until moving to Danbury in 1983.

Rich and Marge built and operated Gulden’s Campgrounds and Canoe Rental until its sale in 1999. Margel enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and trips to the casino. She was given care by her sister, Dorothy Hunter, and brother, Bill Davis, for the past five years.

Margel was preceded in death by her parents; husband; infant son, David; in-

fant grandson, Bryan Gulden; brothers, Bob, Clarence and Gerald; and sister, Pauline. Margel is survived by her daughters, Kathy Oman and Karen Britz; son, Richard Gulden; grandchildren, Sasha, Cameo, Addie, Tommy, Maggie and Toni; great-grandchildren, Taylor, Cindy and Connor; sisters, Dorothy Hunter, Betty Rondeau and June (Erv) Schwartz; and brother, Bill Davis.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, at Danbury United Methodist Church with Pastor Cindy Glocke officiating. Interment will be at the Danbury Cemetery.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

Kassidy Marie Paulsen Kassidy Marie Paulsen, 3month-old daughter of Kent and Wanda (Johnson) Paulsen, died Thursday, Aug. 7, 2008.

She was born on April 19, in Duluth, Minn. She was a member of Mission Covenant Church of Poplar.

In addition to her parents, Kassidy is survived by her brother, Kole; and her sister, Kayla; maternal grandparents, Conrad and Sandy Johnson of Lake Nebagamon; paternal grandparents, Ron and Rebecca Sullivan of Maple, and Bruce and Jody Paulsen of Cushing; great-grandparents, Bette Pearson of Poplar and Betty Bohn of Luck; several aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Dean Pearson and Lucille Paulsen.

Visitation and funeral services were held Sunday Aug. 10, at Mission Covenant Church in Poplar, with burial at Pineview Cemetery in Hawthorne.

The Lenroot-Maetzold Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.

Steve D. (Lowe) Brihn Steve D. (Lowe) Brihn, 55, of Amery died Aug. 13, 2008, at the University of Minnesota Fairview Hospital.

Steve was born on Jan. 16, 1953, in Amery, to John and Rosalyn Lowe. He attended school in Amery and then Milwaukee Area Technical College, earning a degree in respiratory therapy. After graduation from the technical college, he worked at St. Catherine’s Hospital in Kenosha. He eventually returned to the Round Lake area in 1989. At that time he was employed at Forts Folle Avione in Yellow Lake. Steve’s last place of employment was at the St. Croix Casino in Turtle Lake, where he worked as a beverage supervisor. He married Suzanne Bazille on Oct. 10, 1992, in Emerald.

Steve is survived by his wife, Suzanne, of Amery; daughters, Amanda and Brianna of Amery; stepsons, Patrick Lyons of Turtle Lake and Pete Bazille of Amery; grandchildren, Dominic, Kiana, Jarod, Jack, Montana and Jadyn; siblings, Gloria Merrill of Danbury, Eugene (Dora) Lowe of Turtle Lake, Robert Christianson of Amery and Lawrence (Sally) Lowe of Somerset; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins, and his adopted parents, Leo and Ardele Brihn.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Daniel Lowe.

Services were held on Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Round Lake Community Center. Interment was at the Johnstown Township Cemetery following the services.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Dorothy E. Annett Dorothy E. Annett, resident of Frederic, died Monday, Aug. 18, 2008, at the United Pioneer Home in Luck, at the age of 94.

She is survived by her sons, Larry (Linda) Annett and Paul (Deborah) Annett; daughter, Virginia (Lester) Bergstrom; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and nieces, Shirley Hanson and Lyla Dolan.

Funeral services will be held at Trade Lake Baptist Church in Trade Lake Township, Frederic on Thursday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 5-8 p.m. at Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic, and will be on Thursday for one hour prior to the service at the church.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic, was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

OBITUARIES Norma Taylor

Thoeny Austin Gardner

Norma Taylor, 87, formerly of St. Paul, Minn., Balsam Lake, Amery and Osceola, died Aug. 13, 2008 at the Willow Ridge Nursing Home in Amery.

Norma was born to Merci and George Teague in Wakefield, Mass., on July 7, 1921. Norma spent her childhood in Wakefield, graduating from high school in 1939. She attended Lesley College for Women for two years. Norma met Hudson V. Taylor while he was in the Army and training at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. They married shortly there after. After Hud’s honorable discharge and the end of WW II, they moved to St. Paul (Roseville), Minn., where they raised their family. They retired to Balsam Lake in 1978.

Norma was a fabulous cook and baker, and loved socializing with her many friends - friendships that were maintained throughout her life. She never lost her Bostonian accent. In 1995, Norma was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and eventually was cared for by the staff of Simenstand Nursing Home in Osceola and most recently Willow Ridge in Amery.

She is survived by her children, H. Gerry (Kay Kendall) Taylor of Cleveland, Ohio, Betsy (Darryl) Osborne of Osceola and Brad S. (Kaye) Taylor of Apple Valley, Minn.; seven grandchildren, Shane, Ryan, Shannon, Nat, Jacob, Cody and Troy and two great-grandchildren, Taylor and Jaden; and former husband, Hudson.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services were held at the Congregational Church UCC in Amery, Sunday, Aug. 17. The Rev. Tim Bjorge officiated and music was provided by Chris Lindee. A luncheon was served at the church following the service. Norma will be laid to rest at Lakeside Cemetery in Wakefield, Mass.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Thoeny Austin Gardner, Grantsburg, formerly of Anoka, Minn., died Aug. 15, 2008. He was 61 years old.

Thoeny was born April 21, 1947.

He was preceded in death by son, Jason.

He is survived by his wife, Sandi; six children and 13 grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Sunday, Aug. 24, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Methven-Taylor Funeral Home in Anoka, Minn. Interment will be at Morningside Cemetery in Coon Rapids, Minn.

The Methven-Taylor Funeral Home, Anoka, was entrusted with arrangements.

Paula M. Le Tourneau Connors Paula M. Le Tourneau Connors, 40, of Foley, Minn., died Aug. 12, 2008. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor on Aug. 3.

Paula was born June 2, 1968. She spent her youth in Frederic.

She is survived by her husband, Randy; three sons, Brandon, Albie, Travis; two daughters, Starr and Sheyanne; one grandson, Roman; mother, Sandy (Chuck) Sahr; father, Al Nelson; sister, Audrey (Brent) Rud; grandfather, Lloyd Nelson; a large extended family and many friends.

Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2008, at First Presbyterian Church, 206 Norway Drive, Foley, Minn. 56329, with fellowship and luncheon to follow.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services.

Memorials preferred to her two minor daughters, and can be sent to Denise Connors (grandmother) at 1520 Charlton Street, W. St. Paul, Minn. 55118.

Shirley A. Schroeder Shirley A. Schroeder, 76, of Webster, died Aug. 18, 2008.

Graveside services were Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Northern Wisconsin Veteran Memorial Cemetery in Spooner.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Irene L. Simonson Irene L. Simonson, 84, Spooner, died Aug. 12, 2008, at her residence.

Irene was born Sept. 25, 1923, in Clayton, to Emma (Wetzel) and Herman Elmer. She grew up in Clayton Township and Little Falls.

Irene lived in the Amery area. She married Stanley Simonsen on June 21, 1947, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Amery. After losing Stanley in 1976, Irene moved to the Yellow Lake area near Webster in 1978.

Irene has been a residents of the McKenzie Lake community for the last 10 years.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Stanley; sisters, Bernice and Ardis; brother, Ralph; sister-in-law, Marilyn Elmer; and brothers-inlaw, Arthur Hamann and Benton Waalen.

Irene is survived by her sons, Steve Simonson of Webster and Richard (Susan) Simonson of Oregon, Wis.; daughters, Dianne (Harold) McCann of Stillwater, Minn., Pam (Dave) Cramlet of Amery and Dawn Simonson of Spooner; grandchildren, Jason, Eric, Kelly, Casey, Emily, Nick and Jake; great-grandchildren, Justin, Brandon and Morgan; sisters, Evelyn Hamann of Amery and Viola (Perley) Haugerud of Amery; brother, Ted (Marion) Elmer of Danbury; sisters-in-law, Jeanette Waalen of Amery and Arlene Elmer of Amery; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral service was held Aug. 15 at Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home in Spooner with Chaplin Jon Schaffer officiating. Music was provided by James Haugerud.

Interment was Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Amery Cemetery in Amery. Casket bearers were Tim Bennett, Gary Beitel, Jacque Hensley, Don Jacobson, Leo Beitz and Chet Novak.

The Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home, Spooner, was entrusted with arrangements.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Sibling rivalries start from a lack of discipline Q: I've been very careful to be fair with my children and give them no reason to resent one another.

Nevertheless, they continue to fight. What can I do?

DR. DOBSON: The problem may rest in your lack of disciplinary control at home. Sibling rivalry is at its worst when there is an inadequate system of justice among children – where the "lawbreakers" do not get caught, or if apprehended are set free without standing trial. It is important to understand that laws in a society are established and enforced for the purpose of protecting people from each other. Likewise, a family is a minisociety with the same requirement for protection of human rights.

For purposes of illustration, suppose that I live in a frontier community where there is no established law.

Policemen do not exist and there are no courts to whom disagreements can be appealed. Under those circumstances, my neighbor and I can abuse each other with impunity. He can steal my horses and throw rocks through my windows, while I raid the apples from his favorite tree and take his plow late at night.

This kind of mutual antagonism has a way of escalating day by day, becoming ever more violent with the passage of time. When permitted to run its natural course, as in early American history, the end result can be feudal hatred and murder.

As indicated, individual families are similar to societies in their need for law and order. In the absence of justice, "neighboring" siblings begin to assault one another. The older child is bigger and tougher, which allows him to oppress his younger brothers and sisters.

But the junior member of the family is not without

weapons of his own. He strikes back by breaking the toys and prized possessions of the older sibling and interferes when friends are visiting.

Mutual hatred then erupts like an angry volcano, spewing its destructive contents on everyone in its path.

In many homes, the parents do not have sufficient disciplinary control to enforce their judgments. In others, they are so exasperated with constant bickering among siblings that they refuse to get involved. In still others, parents require an older child to live with an admitted injustice "because your brother is smaller than you." Thus, they tie his hands and render him utterly defenseless against the mischief of his bratty little brother or sister. Even more commonly today, mothers and fathers are both working while their children are home busily disassembling each other.

I will say it again to parents: one of your most important responsibilities is to establish an equitable system of justice and a balance of power at home. There should be reasonable "laws" which are enforced fairly for each member of the family. For purposes of illustration, let me list the boundaries and rules which evolved through the years in my own home.

1. Neither child was ever allowed to make fun of the other in a destructive way. Period! This was an inflexible rule with no exceptions.

2. Each child's room was his or her private territory.

Dr. James

Dobson Focus on the Family

There were locks on both doors, and permission to enter was a revocable privilege. (Families with more than one child in each bedroom can allocate available living space for each youngster.)

3. The older child was not permitted to tease the younger child.

4. The younger child was forbidden to harass the older child.

5. The children were not required to play with each other when they preferred to be alone or with other friends.

6. We mediated any genuine conflict as quickly as possible, being careful to show impartiality and extreme fairness.

As with any plan of justice, this plan requires (1) children's respect for leadership of the parent, (2) willingness by the parent to mediate, (3) and occasional enforcement of punishment. When this approach is accomplished with love, the emotional tone of the home can be changed from one of hatred to (at least) tolerance.

••• 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:

First Baptist Church Webster

AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

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AUGUST 20, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 31

High expectations/from page 1 most famous pagoda of South China.

The top of the North Temple Pagoda offers a panoramic view of Suzhou. Of course seeing that view meant climbing the 11 stories to the top, no easy feat in the best of conditions, and this was July with its near 100 degree heat. But being tourist troopers, we climbed the wooden stairs and saw a beautiful view of the entire city and the surrounding areas, stretching for miles.

While taking a taxicab around Suzhou is a more expensive way to get around the city, the distances between historical and cultural sites sometimes deems it necessary. However a more fun way to travel and see some of the sites is by a human-powered pedicab or cycle rickshaw. We negogiated the fare with a couple of pedicab drivers to Guangian Street and off we went, our drivers unconcerned as we weaved our way through the busy city traffic. Scary as it sometimes was, being right there in the midst of cars, scooters and bicylces with drivers paying no attention to traffic rules and no sense of road etiquette, you do get a close-up look at the city and its people. Usually equipped with one or more seats for carrying passengers in addition to the driver, these cycle rickshaws were everywhere in Suzhou, at tourist attractions and events with large crowds.

These cycle rickshaws seemed to have replaced person-pulled rickshaws which we looked for but saw none.

Guangian Street, honored as one of the Four Most Famous Walking Streets in China, (the other three are: Nanjing’s Fuzimiao, Shanghai’s Cheng Huang Miao and Beijing’s Tianqiao) is located in Suzhou's downtown, and has existed since 1930. It has been renovated many times since then. In June 1982, the street was designated by the municipal authority as a “walking street” and a new night market was established.

Walking Street's main theme is one which involves eating, shopping and entertaining. There are hundreds of shops, restaurants, bars, stores and clubs in oldfashioned structures surrounded by colorful signs and neon lights along the street.

Construction of more and more high-rise buildings is a common sight on the Suzhou horizon. The centuries-old Chinese city is rapidly becoming a modern metropolis. At right, the author enjoyed taking a pedicab ride around Suzhou. “It was a great way to see the city and people close-up.”

Open markets, where fresh produce is abundant and you can get just about anything you need, are found everywhere in Suzhou, China. At right, shoppers can get really fresh chicken at Suzhou markets. They can pick out a live chicken then wait while it is butchered for them on the spot.

We stopped to see the Xuanmiao Temple, a Taoism temple, the front entrance of which faces Walking Street. A place of serenity and calm among the hustle and bustle of thriving and noisy Walking Street, the temple has a history of 1,300 years and is a cultural site for locals and visitors.

Just four more performances of “Sea Marks” at Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – Festival Theatre’s third play of the 2008 season, “Sea Marks,” will close on Sunday, Aug. 24, at the historic Vaudeville theater in downtown St. Croix Falls. Just four performances remain with matinees on Thursday and Sunday and 7:30 p.m. performances on Thursday, Aug. 21 and Saturday, Aug. 23.

Opening weekend audiences were mesmerized by the performances of James Walker and Jean Salo in a love story set in the British Isles circa 1949. A rich setting created by set designer Ross Jamison, lighting designer Dane Johnson, with props and set dressing by Marilyn Mays transports and engages the audience fully. In fact, the textures and colors chosen by the design team nearly elicit the smell of the sea and the warmth of a cozy flat in Liverpool. Costume design by Mary Sicora demonstrate the simple life of a fisherman and the city life of a young woman attempting to rise through the ranks of the publishing industry.

Winner of the L.A. Drama Critics Circle Best Play Award, “Sea Marks,” is the touching story of a fisherman living on a remote Irish island who has fallen in love with a woman he’s glimpsed only once.

Unschooled in letter writing, Colm Primrose begins a correspondence, trying his utmost to court Timothea Stiles by mail.

After a year and a half, Colm succeeds in arranging a rendezvous at which, to his surprise, Timothea persuades him to leave a place where there are no last

Jean Salo and James Walker, “Sea Marks” playing at Festival Theatre through August 24. – Photo submitted names or electricity and live with her in Liverpool. Colm is a man divided between passions as he pines for the sea and struggles to acknowledge his newfound love for Timothea and unexpected success as a poet.

Tickets for “Sea Marks” are $25 for adults and $12.50 for youth. Discounts are available by purchasing Flex Pass packages. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin at 210 North Washington Street. For more information, to order tickets or join the Festival Theatre mailing list, call 715-4833387 or 888-887-6002. You may use the theater’s Web site www.festivaltheatre.org for tickets or additional information. - submitted

But there among this centuries-old structure stood a reminder of the modern world's encroachment, the bright red Coke umbrellas of a street cafe.

Suzhou is definitely a city with an old and rich culture which finds itself coming to terms with Western influences changing the face of China throughout.

But it is the treasured temples and gardens drawing visitors to Suzhou, not the skyscrapers, so it's a good bet they will continue to be preserved and not be pushed aside in the name of progress.

Next week - Suzhou's famous gardens and canals

Legion member awarded for 63 years of service Vernon Nelson, 93, received a card in recognition of being a member of the American Legion for the past 63 years. Indian Creek American Legion commander Arlen Peterson presented Nelson with his card on Friday, Aug. 15. Nelson now resides at Frederic Nursing and Rehabilitation. He previously resided in the Indian Creek/Clam Falls area with his wife, Ethel, for many years, where he farmed. They have two daughters. Nelson served in New Guinea and the Philippine Islands during WWII. He also taught marksmanship during his army service from April 10, 1941, to July of 1945.

Nelson has been a member of the American Legion ever since. – Photo

by Brenda Sommerfeld

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - AUGUST 20, 2008

AUGUST

THUR. - SUN./21 - 24 Grantsburg

• Burnett County 131st Ag. Society Fair, Thurs.: entry day 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.: judging starting at 8:30 a.m., pony pull 6 p.m., Bingo 26 p.m., demo derby 7:30 p.m.; Sat.: tractor games 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., tractor parade 3 p.m., talent show 4 p.m., horse show & games 7 p.m.; Sun.: parade 1:30 p.m.; demo derby 6 p.m., free dance 8 p.m.

Coming events

Amery

Frederic

Danbury

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

• 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.

• Garden Tea, experience an afternoon of high tea at the Forts Folle Avoine at 1 p.m.. Call 715866-8890 for info and reservations.

Frederic

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

• Frederic Lioness meeting at Sunrise Apartments, 7 p.m.

• 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.

St. Croix Falls

• Exercise, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo, 11 a.m.-noon; 500 cards, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

FRI. & SAT./29 & 30 Webster

• 2nd-annual Interfaith Caregivers rummage & bake sale at the community center. Fri. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• Exercise, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo, 11 a.m.-noon; potluck & general meeting, 12:30 p.m.; 500 cards, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

FRI. - SUN./29 - 31 Cushing

• Men’s fast-pitch softball tournament.

Siren

Webb Lake

FRI. - SUN./22 - 24 Danbury

• 35th-annual Wild Rice Powwow. 715-3492195, ext. 5146.

These two kittens seem to be headed for some kind of mischief. “You go around to the side, and I’ll come in from the front.” - Photo by Carl Heidel

Frederic

• Burnett County Tavern League Golf Tournament & Fundraiser at Siren National, 1 p.m. shotgun start, 715-349-5755.

Jackson

• Amery Senior Center closed for maintenance.

• Town of Jackson recycling event, 8 a.m.noon, 715-866-8412, 715-866-8404.

• Bingo at the senior center, 1 p.m. and Wii game night at 6:30 p.m.

Luck

St. Croix Falls

• Lake Country Cloggers on the Overlook, 66:45 p.m.; Gene LaFond & the Wild Unknowns, 7-9 p.m.

SAT. & SUN./23 & 24 Dallas

• Little Britches Rodeo at Triple HHH Stable, 715-458-4107, www.lbrodeo.com.

Spooner

• Ice Age Trail hike at Straight Lake State Park, 9 a.m. Contact Dean at 715-472-2248 for more info.

Siren

• Furry Family reunion at the humane society, 715-866-4096.

• Sen. Feingold listening session at the village hall, 1:15 p.m., 608-828-1200.

SUNDAY/24 Balsam Lake

• Trapper education course at the hatchery, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-466-5358.

• Our Lady of the Lakes Parish Fall Festival, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

SATURDAY/23

Cushing

Amery

• Generation II Big Band fundraiser for Polk County Historical Society at the Tac, 5-11 p.m., 715-483-3979.

Centuria

• Community potluck picnic sponsored by Neighborhood Crime Control in the park by the ballfield, noon-4 p.m.

Siren

• Fellowship, cards & Bingo at the senior center, noon.

• Jason Huneke, professional juggler, at the library, 1 p.m., 715-327-4979.

• Second-annual harvest dinner at Pilgrim Lutheran, 4-7 p.m., 715-327-8012.

FRIDAY/22 Amery

St. Croix Falls

• Hand & Foot cards at the senior center, 12:30 p.m.

• Poker at the senior center, 1 p.m.

• Community Club’s rummage sale at the hall, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Frederic

• Pokeno at the senior center, 1 p.m.

THURSDAY/28

Amery

FRI. & SAT./22 & 23

WEDNESDAY/27 • Friends of the Library meeting at the library, noon.

THURSDAY/21

• American Legion Post 132 meets at village hall, 7 p.m.

Webster

• Blood drive at the community center, 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Call Sue at 715-244-3708 for appointment.

• Donkey baseball at the ballpark, 2 p.m.

Farmington

• Assumption Catholic Church Dinner & Fall Festival, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Viebrock benefit at Sue’s Hometown Bar & Grill, 1-6 p.m.

Scott

• Scott A&H Lions Club annual Lasagna Bingo Night at the Scott Town Hall, 5:30 p.m. dinner, 6:30 p.m. Bingo, 715-259-7195.

MON. & TUES./25 & 26 Amery

MONDAY/25

Siren

• Annual Lion & Lioness yard sale at Crooked Lake Park, 8 a.m.-?, 715-349-5919, 715-3492400.

FRIDAY/29 St. Croix Falls

• Blood drive at Wal-Mart, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., 1-800GIVE-LIFE. • Faith Kelley & the Stowaways on the Overlook, 6-9 p.m.

SAT. & SUN./30 & 31 Voyager Village

• 31st-annual Arts & Crafts Fair, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

715-259-3914.

Frederic

SATURDAY/30

St. Croix Falls

• Cushing Tigers Reunion at the community center, 2 p.m.

• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

• Art Group at the senior center, 9:30 a.m.noon.

• Cancer Support Group meeting at SCR Medical Center, 4-5:30 p.m.

TUESDAY/26 Balsam Lake

• St. Croix Ojibwe T.R.A.I.L.S. Youth Dance Troup performing at Pine Park, after 6 p.m.

Polk County Historical Society potluck picnic.

Cushing Frederic

• Annual White Elephant Sale at the Depot Museum, 8 a.m.-? Grandma’s Favorite Recipe Hotdish Cook-Off Competition, serving at noon.

• Fellowship, cards & Bingo at the senior center, noon.

St. Croix Falls

• Exercise, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo, 11 a.m.-noon; 500 cards & Dominos, 12:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Siren

• Food & Friends Community Dinner at Siren United Methodist Church, 5-6 p.m.

• Burnett County Republican Party meeting at the Government Center, Room 162, 7 p.m.

Spooner

• Twilight garden tour at the Ag Research Station, 5 p.m.-dusk, 800-528-1914.

Noni and Jared Mason bring their Lovers Show to Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – Named “Minnesota’s Own Sonny and Cher,” the award-winning pop duo of Noni and Jared Mason deliver a concert that’s as colorful and captivating as they are. The Masons will be on stage at Festival Theatre Saturday, Sept. 6, for the fifth concert in the 2008 Music Series.

“Noni and Jared performed as part of a double-bill in our New Doors Series last November,” said Danette Olsen, executive director at Festival Theatre. “Their show was outstanding and I felt that more people should have the opportunity to see them in concert, so I invited them into the mainstage music series. Their music nearly defies standard categorization, but I would describe it best as nuevo-funk. That said, their original songs are clever, musically superior, and supercharged with energy – I truly believe everyone seeing this concert will be in awe.”

Jared and Noni met performing on Broadway in the wildly popular and critically acclaimed “STOMP.” Coming off the tour, they married, moved to L.A., started a family and launched a joint musical venture called The Lovers Show, that has earned them appearances on television shows such as “The Tonight Show,” “Good Morning America” and “Quincy Jones’ 50th Anniversary Special.”

Noni and Jared Mason – Photo submitted

So, how did these two gifted artists connect in the first place? Jared grew up in the Twin Cities where he cut his teeth in the blues, funk and soul scene of Minneapolis playing keys, drums, guitars, bass and singing.

Jared toured nationally in many theater productions. A true artist who is constantly working his craft, Jared has many secret talents. Most recently you may have heard him yodeling on a VW commercial. Noni, a Boston native, started as a nationally ranked gymnast, a singer, and piano player then moved into dancing and theater.

The Lovers Show returned to Minneapolis to write and record their debut CD, which was released in 2007.

TLS self-titled CD won acclaim with the single “You Are There.”

Ticket prices for this music series event are $20 per person in advance or $25 at the door. Purchase tickets for this event and support of the arts by calling the Festival Theatre Box Office at 715-483-3387 or 888-887-6002.

Flex Passes may be used for the music series and tickets may also be ordered online at www.festivaltheatre.org. Festival Theatre has expanded its date night promotion to the music series and for The Lovers Show concert, Eichten’s Bistro will host a special dinner and concert meal.