Leader|feb 27|2008

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

WEEKEND WATCH: • Booya @ Dairyland • Women’s retreat @ Milltown • VFW breakfast @ Dresser • Concert @ SCFalls and Webster • Wrestling tournament @ Luck • Benefit for Scott & Michelle Johnson @ Grantsburg • See Coming events and stories

Leader INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

$1

Seven years’ prison in OWI death

Sentence includes 10 years of extended supervision for 24-year-old Osceola man Page 2

Polk County to the rescue

This has been a real winter for southern Wisconsin. Record snowfalls depleted the road salt reserves for the Madison/Milwaukee area. Saturday morning, the Polk County Highway Department loaded 46 truckloads of salt for Jefferson County (near Milwaukee), a total of 936 tons of salt. The trucks were sent

by Jefferson County and the salt was part of the state salt reserve in the county shed on Hwy. 8. Highway Commissioner Steve Warndahl told the Leader that he calculated what the county would need for the rest of the season before releasing the salt. The emergency fleet, which drove up from Jefferson County, was exempt from weight restrictions and the trucks carried maximum loads. They are now better prepared for the next winter storm, thanks to help from Polk County. - Photo by Marty Seeger/text by Gregg Westigard

Gableman campaign responds to attack ad No new leads Claims “shadowy” special interest group released TV ad PAGE 3

FFA audit stalls Burnett airport expansion Concern over conflict with Amsterdam Sloughs Wildlife Area PAGE 5

Initial appearance in shooting case delayed

Investigation not yet completed; Huggett set to appear April 9 PAGE 3

PAGE 3

I N S I D E

Fundraiser to send local WWII vets to D.C. memorial Plans are for a Veterans Day trip to Washington, D.C. Page 39

$2,000 reward still being offered for information leading to arrest and conviction of persons responsible for two arson fires at homes in Taylors Falls

Girls regional tournament begins Only three remain

A letter for Logan CURRENTS FRONT

S P O R T S

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 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 Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Brenda Sommerfeld brendals@centurytel.net Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Priscilla Bauer the-leader@centurytel.net Erik Barstow the-leader@centurytel.net Carl Heidel the-leader@centurytel.net Sherill Summer the-leader@centurytel.net EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net

HOW TO REACH US Web page: www.the–leader.net E-mail: the-leader@centurytel.net (send all news releases here)

Subscription concerns: subscriptions@centurytel.net Advertisements: addept@centurytel.net Deadline for ads and copy: 10 a.m. Tuesdays

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-W, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

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

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

St. Croix Falls

Box 338, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 (M-W, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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

715-483-9008 Fax - 715-483-1420

How to subscribe:

Human toll of OWI crash told

The impact on lives of a young man’s decision to drink and drive was focus of emotion-filled sentencing hearing

by Gary King POLK COUNTY – A 24-year-old Osceola man was sentenced Tuesday to seven years in state prison on a charge of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.

Randy J. Lord pleaded guilty to the charge, stemming from a June 23, 2007, incident in which Lord drove his SUV into the path of a motorcycle driven

by Ricky Frascone, Randy Lord 55, St. Paul, Minn., whose wife, Vicki, 51, was a passenger.

The collision took the life of Ricky Frascone and seriously injured Vicki, who was present Tuesday at the sentencing, reading a victim impact statement to a quiet courtroom of more than 40 people present to support the Franscone family and more than two dozen persons present to show support for Lord.

“As they were preparing me to be airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, I asked them (EMS workers) how Rick was doing,” Vicki said in a breaking voice. “I was told they were not worried about him right now. That statement confirmed for me that Rick had not made it…my heart was broken.”

Judge Robert Rasmussen handed down the sentence which includes 10 years of extended supervision to follow the seven-year prison sentence, with 250 hours of community service required during each of those years. He must also spend time in the Polk County Jail from 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Sunday each year on the weekend preceding the accident date.

The maximum sentence under state guidelines is 25 years in prison.

Vicki Frascone sits next to her son, Luigi, as Polk County Victim Witness Coordinator Jan Kelton reads a victim impact statement written by Luigi, at Tuesday’s sentencing of Randy Lord. Lord drove his SUV in front of a motorcycle driven by Randy Frascone on June 23 of last year. The collision took the life of Randy Frascone and seriously injured Vicki. - Photos by Gary King DA statement Prior to Rasmussen’s handing down the sentence, District Attorney Dan Steffen argued that while he acknowledges positive steps taken by Lord since the accident – including wanting to become a counselor to help others avoid alcohol and drugs and the discovery of a religious faith – he objected to any argument for giving Lord “a second chance.”

Steffen said Lord actually had six chances to change the direction of his life, beginning with suspensions in high school related to drug paraphernalia.

Other chances came with a 2001 conviction on a felony for maintaining a

drug trafficking house in St. Croix County, a 2002 conviction for OWI, and a combined disorderly conduct and second OWI charge in 2004.

“His fifth chance to wake up and change his life came on April 15, 2007, just two months before Ricky Frascone was killed,” Steffen said. “Randy was the passenger in a vehicle driven by a friend. Both men had been drinking.

The vehicle went through a T-intersection and crashed into a steep bank.

Randy was hospitalized with his injuries.”

See Sentencing, page 4

Coon Lake walkway work begins

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

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

An award-winning newspaper Member

• National Newspaper Association • Wisconsin Newspaper Association

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

Work has begun on a boardwalk on the south end of Coon Lake in Frederic, which will link Coon Lake Park to a nature area on the east shore. The walkway is being built with the aid of a DNR stewardship grant for $149,500, approximately half the cost of the project. It will include three fishing piers and two overhead lights. The walkway will provide for safety, also, as Ash Street skirts the lake too closely, not allowing for safe walking along the street. Pilings for the walkway are being installed this winter with completion of the project expected later this year. The walkway is the first link in a planned walk that will someday circle Coon Lake, connecting the west and north shore to the wooded eastern shore and its system of nature trails. – Photo by Gary King

Briefly

Beginning with next week’s edition, the Leader will offer the entire content of its weekly paper online at its Web site, www.the-leader.net. An electronic version of the printed edition will offer users the ability to see the paper on their computer as it appears in its printed version. The online version will be available about the same time the printed copies are being distributed to area newsstands. We’re hoping our readers who go south for the winter, college students – and just those who don’t want to wait for their copy to arrive in the mail – will give this technology a try.

It’s obvious it’s what our readers want and it’s obviously the trend in the newspaper world. An introductory offer of $15 for three months subscription – with an added month free – means the electronic version will cost less than the newsstand price for those who take advantage of the offer.

••• MADISON – A large portion of the soon-to-be-filmed “Public Enemies,” will be filmed in Wisconsin, according to Scott Robbe, executive director of Film Wisconsin. The movie will star Johnny Depp as John Dillinger and Christian Bale as his FBI pursuer agent Melvin Purvis.

The film company plans to spend $20 million in the state and the new 25-percent tax credits for the film, television and video gaming industry that took effect Jan. 1 is being credited with drawing the project to Wisconsin. – with information from Film

Notification

Ryan Olson is a convicted sex offender who will be released from prison Tuesday, March 11, and will reside in rural Apple River Township, about halfway between Balsam Lake and Amery. Because it is a rural area, there will be no community notification, but authorities have elected to do a door-to-door notification this week on adjoining town roads within one mile of the residence. The Amery and Unity school districts will also be notified as well as a couple of rural businesses. Olson will be on electronic monitoring upon his release and under the supervision of the Department of Corrections, Probation/Parole in Balsam Lake.

While the supervision is the responsibility of the Department of Corrections, public notification falls under the purview of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Olson was convicted of repeated sexual assault against two nonrelative acquaintances. While incarcerated, he completed sex offender treatment. He will not be allowed to have any unsupervised contact with minors or be in any bars or liquor stores. He is not to consume any drugs or alcohol. To report any violations or if there are any questions, please contact Agent Lucinda Delap at 485-3079. – with information from the DOC and Polk County Sheriff’s Office

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

No new leads

Reward offered in arson case

TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – Two arson fires at homes in Taylors Falls and attempts to start two other houses on fire on Feb. 16, are being investigated and a $2,000 reward is being offered.

In all four cases, the houses affected were up for sale and not occupied.

Two of the homes were completely destroyed.

The $2,000 reward comes from the Chisago County Sheriff’s Department for $1,000 and the city of Taylors Falls contribution of $1,000. The council officially acted on the reward dollars at the Feb. 25 regular council meeting, but the city attorney stated the city could offer a reward for the arrest and conviction

of the arsonist(s) without holding a special meeting, according to the statutes.

Mayor Michael Buchite stated that is the decision he made for the city following the fires to get an incentive out there to help the investigation efforts immediately after consulting with the attorney. Buchite just wanted to have the formality of the reward money being designated at the meeting before all council members. According to reports, there are some leads in the case but no arrests have been made. The comment for the record was that the matter remains under investigation.

Please contact the Chisago County Sheriff’s Department 651-213-6319 if you have information that may lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the arsons in the city of Taylors Falls. –Tammi Milberg

Insight director hopes for compromise GRANTSBURG – Insight School Executive Director, Jeff Bush released this statement Wednesday on recent developments to pending virtual school legislation.

An amended version to the current compromise bill by the state senate this week sets a cap on virtual school enrollment statewide and also would “lock out” new students from participating for the next two years.

“We are hopeful a compromise bill protecting the educational choices of all students around the state can be crafted. The cap amendment added to SB396 is a concern, as it limits choices for students.

“Rep. Davis, Rep. Oregon, will be introducing a new assemble bill (AB870) on the floor Thursday, which does include an auditing provision, but does not have a “lock out” provision or enrollment cap. We are hopeful the senate, assembly, and governor can work together to solve the issues created with SB396 and we are encouraging our parents at Insight School of Wisconsin to contact their legislatures and the governor in an effort to craft a suitable compromise bill to protect this option for all students in the state of Wisconsin.”

In a letter to Insight School families

Bush urged them to once again to lend a hand in support of virtual schools.

Bush told supporters their efforts to protect virtual schools in Wisconsin by contacting their representatives and attending hearings in Madison several weeks ago brought about debate in state Senate and Assembly resulting in a compromise bill. In the letter Bush said it was hoped the compromise bill would pass and be signed by the governor without amendments but unfortunately this week the senate did amend the bill.

“The Wisconsin Coalition of Virtual School Families has begun a letter writing campaign in response to this new development threatening virtual schools. Bush told Insight families their voices are needed again. “Your efforts may very well once again convince our legislators and governor on the merits and need for this educational option for students in Wisconsin. Please help project the freedom to choose in Wisconsin.”

“Rep. Davis is expected to propose a competing bill Monday which will seek to avoid a cap and result in a new compromise bill which the governor, assembly and senate can all agreed to.”

- from Insight School

Gableman campaign issues statement on GWC attack ad BURNETT COUNTY – The campaign of Supreme Court candidate Judge Michael Gableman recently released a statement regarding the smear television ads launched by a shadowy special interest group known as the Greater Wisconsin Committee.

The following statement is from former – Gov. Scott McCallum: “It’s critical to Wisconsin’s public safety and economic health that judges apply the law and not legislate from the bench. And as governor, the final decision to appoint a judge was mine alone and not an advisory committee’s.

“I wanted the best candidate available. I knew Judge Gableman as a successful front-line prosecutor and district attorney, and it was my desire to ensure a ‘traditionalist’ judge who respects the law sat on the Burnett County Circuit Court.

“My decision was affirmed by the voters in Burnett County when Judge Gableman won his judicial election with 78 percent of the vote against one of the committee’s recommended applicants.”

The negative television ads, the first television ads of the Supreme Court race, was launched yesterday by GWC in the Green Bay and Milwaukee media

markets.

“It looks like Louis Butler sent his liberal, special interest friends to do his dirty work for him,” said Gableman spokesperson Darrin Schmitz. “The Butler camp knows they can’t win on issues voters care about like law enforcement, so they are already starting their smear campaign.”

About the Greater Wisconsin Committee: The Greater Wisconsin Committee is a shadowy group, which launches smear campaigns that mislead voters and do not pass the truth test.

• Doyle’s longtime political consultant, Bill Christofferson, is the Greater Wisconsin Committee’s consultant.

• The Greater Wisconsin Committee launched last-minute false advertising in the 2006 attorney general’s race in which they mislead voters on the case of Stanley Newago, who murdered a 16-year-old girl.

• The Greater Wisconsin Committee’s spokesperson, Michelle McGrorty, was given immunity from prosecution for her actions associated with the case against state Sen. Chuck Chvala.- submitted

Court date set for GAM suit Hearing six days before transfer

BALSAM LAKE – The suit to stop the sale of Golden Age Manor, the Polk County-owned nursing home in Amery, finally has a judge and a court date.

Washburn County Circuit Judge Eugene Harrington will hold a motion hearing on the suit March 26 at the Polk County Justice Center.

The home is scheduled to be transferred to the new owners at midnight March 31.

The Polk County board agreed to sell GAM at a special board meeting the evening of Jan. 22. The next morning, three persons, GAM board member Eugene Sollman, GAM employee Marion Posey, and GAM resident Anne Nykreim, filed a suit to stop the sale.

Since that date, three judges have been assigned to the case. The first judge, Robert Rasmussen, removed himself because of conflict of interest.

Each side in the case was allowed one chance to ask for a substitution of judge and each side used its option.

That process took a month, with Harrington receiving his assignment to the case on Feb. 21. The court file for the case has grown over the month and now contains over 45 documents.

Polk County, meanwhile, has proceeded to complete the work for the transfer. That work includes a series of closed-session meetings involving the personnel committee and the two employee unions. - Gregg Westigard

Huggett’s initial appearance delayed until April SIREN – Kyle Huggett’s initial appearance has been delayed until Wednesday, April 9, at 2 p.m. because the sheriff’s department has not yet completed its investigation.

Reportedly, they are still waiting for cell-phone records.

Huggett’s initial appearance was scheduled for this Wednesday, Feb. 27.

He was released on a $50,000 signature bond after he was involved in the fatal shooting of John Peach on Sunday, Jan. 20. No formal charges have been filed against Huggett as of yet. – Sherill Summer

Listening sessions postponed BURNETT COUNTY - Rep. Ann Hraychuck’s listening sessions that were scheduled to be in Webster and Siren this Friday, Feb. 29, have been postponed. The Assembly is now going to be in session this week, with debate expected to last late into the night on Thursday. She will reschedule these sessions for sometime in March. - from the office of Rep. Hraychuck

E-mail us @: the-leader@centurytel.net

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

P O L K

Sentencing/from page 2 Steffen pointed out Lord never sought inpatient treatment for his drinking problem and – despite losing his father at a young age and having a “rough life,” – never took advantage of a strong family support system.

Steffen said Lord’s sixth chance to make smarter choices came the day he decided to go to a bar the morning of the accident and continue to drink alcohol until his blood alcohol level reached .21.

“This court is going to hear about giving Randy Lord a second chance,” Steffen said. “In actuality they should be asking for a seventh chance. Ricky Frascone doesn’t have a second chance.

“I believe Mr. Lord’s chances are up.”

A presentence investigation showed that Lord began drinking at the age of 12.

That same report suggested a sentence of eight to 15 years.

Defense Attorney Tim O’Brien said his client had become a different person after the accident and compared the conversion to that of the Biblical story about the conversion of Saul, the man who persecuted Christians, only to become the Apostle Paul.

He brought to testify a representative of the Salvation Army program who said Lord had been doing very well in his treatment programs.

Lord also testified, crying as he apologized to members of the Frascone family.

Judge’s statement Judge Rasmussen, in his sentencing statement, said he felt the strongest point of the district attorney’s argument was that Lord had many chances to change the course of his conduct - and he failed.

Rasmussen also referred to the presentence investigation which included an interview with Lord as to the events the day of the accident.

C O U N T Y

“When I read what happened in the 20 hours of your life leading up to this event it is outrageous,” Rasmussen said.

Lord’s account of the day is as follows: "One of our friends was turning 21 the day before. I and another friend went to New Richmond, WI to take him out for his birthday but he did not want to go out. I and some other friends did go out to some bars the night before. The next morning, the day of this offense, I and a friend went out for breakfast which was around 8:30 am and I had maybe two screwdrivers. We were there for about 1 1/2 hours and from there went to a bar in Star Prairie, WI. I had maybe one or two more screwdrivers. I drove to Amery, Wi and my friend and his brother followed me there. We were at a bar in Amery and I had a few more screwdrivers. It was around noon and I knew we were going out that night so I wanted to go home and take a nap so I wasn't tired. It did go through my mind a few times that maybe I should not be driving but I told myself it was early in the day, the sun was out, and I would be ok to drive home."

Judge Rasmusen pointed out how many times during that period Lord had a choice. Each time he ordered a drink, each time he put the glass to his mouth, each time he drove, and that because of the choices he made that day, Ricky Frascone lost his life.

"What can I do today in structuring a sentence which will make it less likely that Randy Lord will never be back in a courtroom again in regards to any crime?” he said.

Five charges against Lord that were dismissed but read in to the record for sentencing purposes were: injury by intoxicated use of a vehicle (felony F), operating while under the influence, homicide by use of a vehicle with PAC (felony D), injury by use of a vehicle with PAC (felony F) and operating with PAC .08 or more.

Police chief responds to complaint FREDERIC – Police Chief R.J. Severude this week responded to a letter to the editor that was published in last week’s Leader regarding a Frederic citizen’s complaint about having her vehicle towed and being unable to get answers as to why.

Chris Mailand wrote in her letter that she felt compelled to inform people about the risks of having car trouble within the Frederic Village limits.

Her vehicle broke down in Frederic on her way home from work Feb. 14, and said she had to abandon it, but felt it was safely off the roadway.

The next morning she discovered the village’s night officer had decided to have her vehicle towed, resulting in a $218 tow bill with an additional $35 per day fee for each day the car was not picked up from the tow lot.

Mailand said she visited the village hall and asked for a return call since no one was there when she was in. She questioned why she wasn’t contacted by the officer before the towing

occurred, why the village would use a towing company that charges what she felt to be a high fee and why the police chief had not returned her call.

Severude stated in an e-mail this week that he was out sick for a few days and was unable to respond to Mailand right away. He did call and speak to her, and he explained the village’s policies in regards to towing vehicles noting the rules are set up “in the best interests of public safety.”

“We did try to make some attempt to locate her,” Severude added. Severude emphasized that the police department does not set the tow cost for any company. He said his department is given the next tow company in rotation when they call for one.

He said people who have read the letter have called and have assumed it’s the police department charging for the calls.

“I just want to clarify it’s the tow company and not the police that sets the charges,” he noted. – Gary King

Bloodmobile coming to St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS – A blood drive will take place Wednesday, March 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Croix Falls High School.

“The need for blood continues to grow, but there are not enough blood

Correction

donors and that’s cause for concern,” said Rick Panning, CEO of the North Central Blood Services. “You can make a difference. Make an appointment to donate by calling 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or visit givebloodgivelife.org. - submitted

In the Clam Falls Lake fishing contest winner results in the Leader Feb. 20, the first-place northern was caught by Keith Nelson not Kurt Anderson. The picture was also of Keith Nelson.

H E A D L I N E S

Impact statements Emotions ran high during the reading of the three victim impact statements during the first hour of the sentencing hearing.

The statements were a tribute to Ricky Frascone - as a father, husband and new grandfather - as well as an opportunity to express how lives were changed.

Ricky Frascone’s son, Luigi, was present but asked that his statement be read

by Victim-Witness Coordinator Jan Kelton.

Muffled sobs could be heard from members of both the Lord and Frascone families when Faith Frascone, sister of Ricky, read her statement through tears.

“Ricky, my brother and best friend in the world, was the only one left in my family,” she said. “He was always there for me, most recently in the last three years when I found out that I had breast cancer.”

She said she was just diagnosed with r-occurring breast cancer and it has attached itself to her fourth rib and lymph nodes.

“Randy, do you know what you have taken away from me?”

She also related the day of the accident when she and her boyfriend were driving from Wisconsin to a HarleyDavidson dealer in St. Paul to buy Vicki a gift for her July 4 birthday when they were detoured by the fire department.

“I looked up in the sky and said ‘but I don’t see any smoke,’ only to find out that it was not a fire I was going around – but an accident that took my brother’s life,” she said.

Wife’s struggle Vicki Frascone told of her struggle to get better. She was unable to attend the wake for her husband due to her hospitalization for serious injuries sustained in the crash, which catapulted her from

the motorcycle, landing her on the hood of Lord’s SUV. Her injuries included multiple fractures to her upper and lower left arm, broken bones in the front and back of her right shoulder, broken ribs on her right side. Her T-7 vertebra was fractured and her T-8 vertebra was fractured and compressed. Her left leg had a compound fracture and was missing four inches of a femur bone. She also had a collapsed lung.

“The hospital put me on a death watch list,” she said.

She said her husband of 33 years had become first-time grandparents in the fall of 2006 was “everything to me – my best friend, my soul mate, my lover – I grew up being with him and now suddenly I must face life alone.

“How am I going to survive? I have lost Rick’s friendship and economic support. How am I going to make all the monthly payments? When will I be able to bury my husband? How will I pay for the funeral expenses? Will I be able to get medical insurance or will I be denied insurance due to my extensive injuries? What does my future hold?”

Although Judge Rasmussen cautioned prior to the reading of the impact statements that there be no statements regarding what sentence should be handed down, opinions on Randy Lord’s punishment did surface.

“I understand it is the court that will impose your sentence” stated Faith Frascone. “However, if I were able, I would have you sit in prison until your 55th birthday - the age of my brother when you took his life away because you made a choice to drink and drive.

By doing so, you took an innocent human being who was loved and cared for by many.”

It was noted that a memorial service for Randy Frascone may be held sometime this spring.

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

H E A D L I N E S

Siren proposes truancy intervention policy

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – “We want to make it known that (truancy) is a serious thing,” commented Siren School Board member Dave McGrane as he talked about the need for a truancy intervention policy during the Feb. 25 school board meeting. The first reading of that policy was approved by the board during the meeting.

“Per Judge Mike Gableman, the school board can make this policy. Setting up such a policy is something nobody else in the nation has done. We will see if this works, to see if we can save a couple students and make them productive citizens in this community,” McGrane commented.

The new policy enables the school district to set up a committee of adult professionals to address the truancy of students, a problem for the district. The goal is to work with parents and families to help students reverse patterns of habitual truancy to a level of regular school attendance.

“I would like to see us try to do something to intervene earlier (in the students’ lives),” McGrane said.

“It would be nonconfrontational, but let the students know how concerned we are.”

He went on to explain that the district would make sure that the volunteers on the committee would have the right intentions, and that truant students would be asked to give permission for the committee to talk to them, and emphasize how much the community, as well as the school district, cares about them. The students would also be asked if there is anything the community/district could do personally to help them.

“This isn’t going to catch everybody. The legal sys-

Siren School Board member Dave McGrane discussed the need for a truancy intervention policy during the board meeting Monday, Feb. 25. The board approved the first reading of that policy, which will come back to the board next month for a second reading and vote for approval. – Photo

by Nancy Jappe tem (to deal with truancy) is still in place,” McGrane added.

Another policy, Non-Discrimination Policy #102 (revised), was given a first reading during the meeting. The revision to the existing policy sets out who

parents and interested parties can go to if discrimination problems develop. For Title VI, that person would be the district superintendent (administrator).

For Title IX and Section 504, that person would be the building principal.

Five applications for youth options, involving 17 credits and $5,000 in tuition, were approved. Bill Ellis agreed to sign the individual youth options applications on behalf of the board.

No final numbers are available on requests for open enrollment in the district. District Administrator Scott Johnson told the board that nine open-enrollment applications have been turned in, five from students already enrolled in the district and four new applications. There is no number yet on students requesting to leave the district.

Johnson advised the board to watch for state budget restrictions, with the state expecting a $652 million shortfall for the biennium. Nothing has been announced as yet.

In open session following closed-session discussion, the board approved the hiring of Jeff Roberts, Webster, as boys assistant baseball coach. The baseball season with Webster will be starting in the mid to end of March.

March meeting dates for the district are as follows: Personnel and Negotiations – Tuesday, March 11, with regular meeting at 3 p.m. followed by negotiations starting at 4 p.m. Budget and Finance – Tuesday, March 18, 4:30 p.m. Building and Grounds – March 18 at 6 p.m. Policy, Planning and Curriculum – March 18 at 7 p.m. Monthly school board meeting – Monday,

FAA audit officially stalls airport expansion

Concerns over conflict with Amsterdam Sloughs Wildlife Area

by Sherill Summer SIREN – The airspace around the Burnett County Airport, nestled in the northwoods, is proving to be contentious as the Wisconsin DNR, the US Fish and Wildlife the FAA and the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics consider if an expansion project, that has been in the works for nearly a decade, can coexist with the federally protected Amsterdam Sloughs.

An FAA audit of several Wisconsin small airport expansion projects, that have experienced unusual delays, exposed the problematic conflict between protected wildlife areas and airport expansion projects.

The 7,233-acre Amsterdam Sloughs Wildlife Area is operated by the Wisconsin DNR, along with Crex Meadows, Fish Lake and Danbury wildlife areas. The slough is known for its great blue heron colony and

osprey nests. Acquisition for Amsterdam Sloughs began in 1956 with the help of Pittman – Robertson funds, the granddaddy of wildlife restoration programs signed into law by F.D.R. in 1937. About threequarters of a mile of the slough will also be a part of the Burnett County airport’s airspace if the expansion runway is built.

Burnett County airport manager Jeremy Sickler explained that the larger planes that will be able to use the expanded runway need a steady, low approach to the runway if landing at the airport. It is a landing from the direction of the slough that has the most potential to be disruptive of the protected airspace. A takeoff into the protected airspace will be less disruptive, since planes can quickly maneuver away from the slough once in the air. All airplanes must take off and land into the wind, and the prevailing winds in Burnett County do not usually require that planes land from the direction of the Amsterdam Sloughs.

Sickler says that a majority of the time, there will no overlap of airspace.

The FAA has advised Burnett County to conduct a

full environmental impact study and work with the DNR and US Fish and Wildlife agencies to find a solution to push the project forward. The Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics has studied the FAA audit and is composing a response letter. It is likely that even the full environmental impact study will wait until the FAA responds to this letter.

A short environmental impact study was already conducted in 2003.

This past fall, the rerouting of the Gandy Dancer Trail began to make way for the expanded runway.

The rerouting of the trail is expected to be complete this spring, and it is only the latest preparation work that has been completed through the years to prepare for the expansion. Trees were logged off airport property to clear way for the runway four years ago. The first public hearing for the project was held nearly six years ago, in 2002.

Now the project is officially stalled until the interested parties can work out an agreement.

Grantsburg School Board approves elementary computer lab project

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg School Board approved the replacement of outdated computers and an upgrade of the computer lab’s network at the Grantsburg Elementary School after hearing from the district’s tech director, Jesse Byer,s at their Monday night meeting. Byers appeared before the board to answer questions on the proposed upgrade.

“The computers are slow and classroom time is being wasted waiting for them to start up and load programs. The current equipment is just not keeping up with teacher and students’ needs. The elementary school has the oldest computer lab in the district,” said Byers, who went on to say the computers were also not able to keep up with increased traffic on the network, making it necessary to upgrade that system as well. Byers explained the current lab network switches, which are eight to 10 years old, can’t handle demands. He cited the running of all software on all the computers for student testing as one example of high demand usage.

The board approved the proposal to accept bids by Crex Tech for 21 new computers at $17,976, two

Ethernet switches and accessories at $6,485 and a bid from InaCom for 21 copies of Microsoft Office 2007 at a cost of $1,449.

Byers told the board the equipment would be ordered immediately and installation could begin in the next several weeks. Elementary school Principal Katie Coppenbarger told the board the upgrade will greatly help in meeting the educational needs of the elementary teachers and students and said the staff is working on a plan to put the lab’s old computers into the classrooms.

The board was given a report on the status of the pending virtual-school legislation which included a copy of the amended Senate bill that includes a cap on the enrollment of virtual schools at existing levels.

The report stated a vote is expected on the Davis Bill next week. It is unknown at this time if the bill would include original language to which Superintendent Burgin had testified, plus the amendments.

Gov. Doyle has gone on record saying he would not sign legislation that did not contain enrollment caps to limit the growth of virtual schools. The report recommended efforts should be made to encourage Doyle to

SIREN – Classic Hits 105.7, WXCX-FM, WCMP AM/FM radio stations along with the Burnett Youth Hockey Association, have announced that Packer legend Mark Chmura has been added to the lineup at Expo 2008.

Chmura, along with Packer greats Frank Winters and Chris Jacke, will sign autographs and take photos from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 20. Chmura will

also be doing his Milwaukee Radio Show live from the expo, Sunday morning.

Expo 2008 is Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Siren’s Lodge Center Ice Arena.

For more information contact Ron Revere at Red Rock Radio, toll free at 1-888-629-7575 or go to www.sirenexpo.com for information. – submitted

Chmura added to lineup

eliminate the enrollment freeze. Doyle is also asking for an audit of all virtual schools, which the report stated would not be a problem.

In other business: • The board accepted the resignation of high school instructional assistant Rachel Trittelwitz.

• The board approved the distribution by the administration of teacher contracts on or before March 15.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Governor’s Energy Independent Community Plan comes to Polk County

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Gov. Jim Doyle would like Wisconsin to generate 25 percent of its electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by 2025. That message came to Polk and Burnett counties Tuesday when three officials came from Madison to meet with municipal leaders from the two counties and with members of the public. Two meetings were hosted by the Polk County Renewable Energy Committee, the first county committee in the state set up to look at energy use issues.

The visitors from Madison were Rod Nilsestuen, Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, together with David Jenkins and Brian Driscoll from the new Office of Energy Independence set up by Doyle last year. The trio met with officials from most of the Burnett County villages and cities at noon to talk about ways that local governments can reduce their energy costs. They then joined the monthly meeting of the Renewable Energy Committee to share ideas on

how the public can be part of the effort to develop our energy supply herein

Wisconsin and use our energy more efficiently.

HAYWARD - The Minneapolis VA Medical Center will reopen an outpatient clinic for veterans in Hayward on Tuesday, March 4.

The clinic will be located temporarily in the River’s Edge Professional Building, 15954 River’s Edge Drive.

The VAMC has signed a six-month lease to use 1,400 square feet of space while it looks for a permanent location.

The Hayward Clinic has been closed

since Dec. 10 when Corporate Health and Wellness, a private management company, ceased operations without warning in Hayward and Rice Lake.

The VA reopened the Rice Lake clinic on Dec. 26.

Both the new Hayward clinic and Rice Lake clinic are staffed and managed by the Minneapolis VAMC. The River’s Edge office building is located about a mile from where the

previous clinic space, leased by CH&W, was located.

“We are excited to be able to offer clinic services to our veterans close to home,” said Michael Koopmeiners, M.D., medical director of the community-based outpatient program at Minneapolis VAMC. “We appreciate their patience during the past two months.”

The VA outpatient clinics provide

Rod Nilsestuen, Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture, explained Gov. Jim Doyle's Energy Independent Communities program to officials from most of the Burnett and Polk County villages and cities Tuesday. The noon meeting was part of a day of energy use dialogues hosted by the Polk County Renewable Energy Committee. – Photo by Gregg Westigard

VA to reopen clinic

“The answers to our energy needs are going to come from Balsam Lake and other communities,” Nilsestuen said.

“The ideas and the resources are here.

We want to work with you to solve our energy issues.”

Nilsestuen said biofuels are Wisconsin’s competitive advantage. The state has agricultural resources and wood resources that can be developed to meet much of our energy needs.

“We need to keep our energy dollars here in Wisconsin,” Jenkins said. “We can invest in renewable energy industries here in the state. In just one year from 2005 to 2006, the cost of petroleum for Wisconsin increased $1.1 billion.

That is $200 for every resident that left the state. We can work to keep that money here in Wisconsin.”

The ideas shared will be taken back to the local communities and will also be developed by the county. The Leader will have a series of articles on the proposals and on energy independence ideas that are working in the area.

primary and preventative care, as well as continuing care for chronic diseases such as diabetes. Mental health counseling is also available. The Hayward clinic will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Patients will be notified of their appointments at the Hayward Clinic.

For questions, patients may call 715236-3355. – from MVAMC

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

Feingold talks war, economy, education

Talks about the war and veterans affairs

by Regan Kohler SHELL LAKE – U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wis., heard from Washburn County citizens at the Shell Lake Community Center Wednesday, Feb. 20, for his annual listening session.

Feingold’s listening sessions, which are held in every county, allow people to comment on issues and bring concerns forward, in an open environment.

The Wednesday afternoon session started off with a comment on assistance to the aging population and senior citizens in the area. Feingold said he believed in home-base care, and is aware of the growing elderly population in Washburn County.

One man asked Feingold about his opinion on the federal government’s monitoring of overseas phone calls and access to conversations, looking for terrorist links. Feingold said this is one of his biggest concerns right now.

“This is one that gets me fired up,” he said. “I’m really sick to my stomach about this.”

Feingold said he has been fighting it, but there is only so much his department can do.

“I’ve done everything I know how to do,” he said.

When asked about the spending in the ongoing war in Iraq, Feingold estimated that $9 billion goes into this fund per month.

“For three months in Iraq, you have all the foreign aid,” he said.

Some concerns surrounding the protection of the Clean Water Act were raised, in relation to the federal government’s apparent unwillingness to maintain the environment. Feingold said he is asking the joint commission to accelerate its review of the act, and would continue to support it.

“This administration has been terrible on this issue,” Feingold said.

One woman raised the question of politicians being special delegates for presidential candidates, saying this could be bias and lead to the public’s votes being canceled out. Feingold said he has been neutral in this election, though he leaned toward Barack Obama. Somebody else asked if he thought Obama would make a good president.

“I predicted in college that Ronald Reagan would never be president,” Feingold joked.

However, he said, he has known Obama in his years in the Senate, and believes he is talented and easy to work with, so could do a good job in the White House. Obama has supported his causes in the past, Feingold added.

The absence of railroad transporta-

tion and work in northwestern Wisconsin was touched on, and Feingold said he felt eliminating the railroad system is a big mistake.

One man asked Feingold to answer truthfully on whether or not he could count on Social Security, which has all but been eliminated in the United States.

“You’re not going to get anything,” Feingold said.

Feingold warned the audience not to get involved in any unknown organization’s money-making schemes, in which they promise the investment will eventually come back to the people.

Feingold said he’d voted to restore Social Security.

The No Child Left Behind education act was asked about, and Feingold said the goal is to make it less difficult for districts to abide by.

Veterans health care was a big topic Wednesday. Feingold said he wanted to see care restored for Category 8 veterans, which is the group not being compensated for a military-related disability and having higher income.

According to the American Forces Press Service, the Veterans Affairs secretary shut Category 8 down to prioritize health care for vets. One veteran at the session said she felt nobody cared.

Feingold said the promise for health care was made to all vets, and he is working on restoring Category 8.

Feingold added that he was glad the VA clinic in Hayward reopened after the company holding the contract shut it down this winter. The VA is now in control of the clinic. It is currently open two days per week, but Feingold said he would like to see it open for five and hoped two days was temporary. This way, he said, veterans wouldn’t have to wait.

One man stated that he didn’t care for Bush, since it seemed he was only helping the wealthy get richer. Feingold said he remembered the days when $2 per gallon of gas caused an outcry. He stressed the need for alternative energy sources, and said good things are being done in this area, what with the new, increased emission standards for vehicles.

Feingold was asked if the country has had any success with its foreign policies and if he thought the United States would ever earn back the respect of other nations. Feingold said relations in North Korea, one area of conflict, are getting better. Iraq relations are very bad, naturally, he said.

“So ‘not good’ would be the report,” he said.

Feingold pointed to the Sept. 11, 2001, tragedy as a mistaken start for overall foreign policy’s downfall.

Feingold said presidential candidate John McCain is in favor of continued

Luck Forensics participated in subdistrict contest Luck’s Forensics Squad participated in the subdistrict forensics contest at Unity on Monday, Feb. 25. Fifteen of 16 entries advanced to the district competition.

Luck High School’s Forensics Squad – Front row: Megan Panek, Ashley Overby, Shuqing Chen, Tanya Holm, Melissa Jenssen and Carson Giller. Middle row: Adam Anderson, Alex Smith, Tyler Petersen, Ben Panek, Taylor Horsager, Nate Nelson, Megan Hacker, Laura Byl, Chelsea Rasmussen and Sarah Petersen.

Back row: Brennan Olson, Harlan Opitz, Grace Jenson, Britta Giller, Karen Lund, Wally Rich, Jessica Antonson, Marnie Rozumalski, and Gina Armour. Missing: Coach Barbara Petersen, Emily Smith and Kasey Johnson. – Photo submitted

Sen. Russ Feingold speaks passionately about his opposition to telecommunication spying by the government overseas, at his Washburn County listening session last Wednesday. – Photo by Regan service in Iraq, and that he seems to feel this is the first place resources should go. Someone else mentioned they’d heard McCain wanted a permanent military base in Iraq, and Feingold said the secretary of defense had not wanted permanent bases in foreign territory. He said it was more important to have diplomatic relations with a country like Iraq.

“I think it’s going to hurt [McCain] in the election,” he said of this issue.

On the North American Free Trade Agreement, Feingold said he voted against it, and the country will have a hard time trying to get out of the agreement. He said this is to blame for the loss of jobs in the United States, which ended up not helping the countries the work went to, either.

Some had concerns about the Constitution and Bill of Rights being upheld, and one woman felt civil liberties were dissipating. She said she was dismayed when Feingold mentioned a censure, or impeachment, of Bush, and didn’t see enough people pushing for reform. Feingold said he disagreed on the censure, as he thought it would be exactly what the people wanted and it wouldn’t happen anyway at this point in the term. A resolution for censure allows it to be discussed fairly, he added.

Whoever gets elected to the next presidency, Feingold said, should announce that they understand their power has limits, as he felt Bush abuses his position.

One man mentioned asking for safety belts on buses, due to the fatal school bus accident in Minnesota that week.

Feingold said he had voted to make seat belts on buses a mandate, and would continue to look into it.

Feingold was asked how the Congress could let the president do as he wishes without any regard for the law. Feingold said the administration has been going berserk signing bills but

not following through on them. He said this is unconstitutional, but Congress wouldn’t have a standing if anyone took it to court.

Regarding illegal immigrants coming into the country, Feingold said he voted for a motion to take up the bill, but not in favor of the bill. He said this is something the federal government has to enact.

“People should not be rewarded for coming here illegally,” he said.

Feingold was asked about tax statements and how the deficit would be affected if all corporate taxes were collected. Feingold said the next administration may have a shot at passing something along these lines.

Feingold said, in regard to job training, that the Senate is trying to expand and renew the bill for the Workforce Development Act, which requires this training in investment businesses.

NAFTA had been helping with this, he mentioned.

Feingold traveled to Sawyer County after his session. This is his 16th year holding these listening sessions, and Washburn County was the 26th of 2008.

Candidates Gableman, Butler square off in debate MADISON - The challenger in the race for state Supreme Court, Judge Michael Gableman, has accused the incumbent, Justice Louis Butler, of casting the deciding vote in a ruling that freed a sex predator. In a debate Monday in Madison, Butler called the charge false and asked Gableman to publicly retract it.

The ruling at issue is known as State vs. Brown. It overturned an appeals court decision that rejected Richard Brown’s petition for release under the state’s sex predator law. During the debate before members of the Wisconsin State Bar Association, Butler read from a Gableman campaign letter, which said that Butler provided the deciding vote to overturn a sexual predator decision by a circuit court resulting in the release of the predator in to Milwaukee County.

Butler pointed out that that the individual was never released and that the court did not order the individual’s release. Butler says all the ruling did was to tell the circuit court to require the Department of Health and Family Services to prepare a plan for the supervised release of Brown if and when he was released.

But Gableman says he’ll stand by the original accusation. He says he doesn’t believe it was an inaccurate statement, and if he did, he would retract it. He says the result of the opinion was that the person would have been released but for some extraneous factor not involving that decision, and so it was just a matter of random chance or happenstance that the individual remained incarcerated.

While the two candidates disagreed on this point, they were on the same page in denouncing outside groups that are now running attack ads against them.

One accuses Butler of being soft on crime and the other charges that Gableman bought his current county judge seat by contributing money to former Governor Scott McCallum’s campaign. There will likely be more such ads between now and the April 1st election. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halsted)

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L e a d e r

We b Po l l

Last week’s poll results

Total votes: 80

This winter...

15%

12 votes Got me back on a snowmobile

20%

16 votes Got me thinking about moving

49%

39 votes Put a dent in my bank account

16%

13 votes Made me smile

To take part in the poll go to www.the-leader.net and scroll to the lower left portion of page.

Have you done any of the following in the past year?: 1. Help someone cross the street 2. Talked to someone who was eating alone 3. Told someone how much you care about them 4. Forgiven someone 5. Prevented violence

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M

Honorable requests

the name of simple communication, we urge all state residents to take I nadvantage of technology and tune in to the fourth-annual State of the

Tribes address, given before the state Legislature on Tuesday of this week.

Wisconsin Public Radio offers the recording of the speech free on its Web site, wpr.org. WPR is an oustanding resource for state news - state news minus the Minnesota details - in general.

Robert Chicks, president of the Stockbridge-Nunsee Community and president of the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, represented all 11 tribes within the state of Wisconsin as he gave what was obviously an encouraging speech, promoting better communication and cooperation between tribal and state governments.

And there are plenty of topics and issues of mutual interest and concern.

Chicks pointed out Tuesday that tribes should be consulted once in awhile.

For example, state lawmakers are seeking to appove the Great Lakes Compact - an agreement with eight other states that would prevent other regions of the country from siphoning water out of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.

Chicks pointed out that the Great Lakes, besides being one of the natural wonders of the world that Wisconsin is fortunate to be a part of, also represents tribal family, history and culture.

“It is our life force,” he said.

Tribal concerns about the compact will be delivered in the near future to the state Legislature.

Legislators would be wise to take those concerns under advisement even though it may be too late to incorporate those concerns or ideas, as time is running out for the compact to be ratified.

And another simple request from Chicks consisted of the Legislature passing a joint resolution recognizing tribal governments. Not to confer any new rights or create a new law, Chicks said. But to help bolster greater cooperation between tribes and state government.

Simple requests.

Requests the Legislature should seriously consider.

Tuesday’s courtroom

he raw emotion of a sentencing hearing Tuesday in Polk County (see story, Tpage 2) was simply too intense to convey in words. Or, perhaps, it

required a truly skilled wordsmith.

While our justice system often takes verbal shots - some justified and some cheap - it’s very clear to see by Tuesday’s hearing that when the wheels of justice turn in unison - everyone plays a part - and justice and the sense of justice being done - is palpable.

Over the years the creation of victim-witness advocates, restorative justice programs, more creative and intelligent guidelines for sentencing - all play into a better justice system overall.

The voices heard in Tuesday’s courtroom is an example of bettering a system to allow for a healing to begin. Victims read impact statements and the human part of everyone in the courtroom felt the magnitude of bad choices.

It’s a common practice now, but so uncommon in its value as a piece of the puzzle.

Admittedly, our crime story on this sentencing is clunky, with chunks left out - but if it captures just a fraction of the essence of what people were trying to convey, it has to at least start a thought process about choices, about justice and perhaps about intervention. When to intervene - and the ultimate question - do I have the courage to confront someone and tell them to turn their life in a different direction?

The performances, if you will, by everyone in Tuesday’s courtrooom - from the the judge to the district attorney to the defense attorney to those present in the audience - made it feel like there is a justice system and that it can work in a tone respectful to us as citizens.

All editorials on this page by editor Gary King

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

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 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

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 U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold SDB 40, Rm. 1 Washington, D.C. 20510 or 8383 Greenway Blvd.

Middleton, WI 53562 (608) 828-1200 senator@feingold.senate.gov 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)

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

T h e

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

From the first issue of the Inter-County Leader, November 2, 1933

“...stock has been sold with the understanding that this is to be a cooperative-owned paper serving the best interest of the common people, whether they be farmers, professional men or business men.

The welfare of one group should mean the welfare of the other groups...” Bennie Bye, editor

Inter-County Leader Informing the local community since 1933

L e a d e r

i s

a

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

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

Why we live here

Anyone who has simply driven by the current highway building would agree that the facilities are in need of updating or replacement. However, it could also be noted that anyone who inspected that same building 25 years ago would have come to the same conclusion.

Where were all the movers and shakers 25 years ago when the planning process should have really begun?

So what happened? The highway shop referendum failed by an overwhelming 4-to-1 vote. It’s hard to believe that the county board of supervisors anticipated such a train wreck. I suspect the outcome was more of a voter statement demonstrating a major lack of confidence in the county board’s planning process rather than a rejection of a new highway building. I also believe it was a reaction to lobbying efforts that apparently used a taxpayerfunded mailing to make a one-sided solicitation for taxpayer support. While perhaps not illegal, the mailing did demonstrate a definite ethical lapse by those who initiated this embarrassment.

In order to show proper respect for the democratic process, future board propaganda efforts should be limited to using the only vehicle the rest of us have.

Write a letter to the editor.

I cannot help but believe that the county board as well as the school district historically pays lip service at best to the long-range planning process.

Polk County residents have yet to see a combined, comprehensive long-range plan submitted by all taxing agencies in the county. Knowing what the needs and estimated costs are going to be five and 10 years down the road would give Polk County residents the decision making and planning tools they need for responsible citizenship.

Corporations go through this exercise constantly. Why does it appear to be so challenging for our county leadership?

What the county board should learn from voter reaction to the highway building proposal is that poor planning and communication on the part of the board of supervisors does not constitute a crisis on the part of the taxpayers.

Today I had another reminder of why we live away from the big cities. My daughter takes horseback riding lessons every Monday and Tuesday at Double J Arena. She is 8 years old and takes the bus from Unity School to the arena.

Due to a scheduling conflict there was no one at the arena, and she was left in the cold. My daughter, using her head, walked to Jonzy’s Market where the clerks and owners welcomed her with open arms. They let her use the phone, fed her, gave her something to drink and started her on her homework. A short time later I arrived at the store and was escorted to the owner’s home where I found my daughter safe and sound. I offered to pay for the food and drink that my daughter ate and they would not hear of it.

My wife and I are retired Minneapolis police officers where we saw the worst of the worst while working the streets of the big city. Living out here over the past several years has given me a renewed faith in the human race.

Today was just another example of the fine people that live in our communities. I would like to thank the staff and owners of Jonzy’s Market for their caring and compassion. And remind everyone who lives out here how blessed we truly are to have friends, family and neighbors like we have.

Leigh Marquardt Balsam Lake

by LeAnn Mulroy, Coordinator St. Croix Tribal Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault program BURNETT COUNTY – Stalkers can be anyone, from Mark Chapman who killed John Lennon, to the nice guy down the street. Stalkers are a very real danger in our communities. According to a National Violence Against Women survey, over 1 million women and 400,000 men in the United States are stalked each year. Native American women are stalked at a rate at least twice that of any other race. The study showed that 17 percent of Native American women are stalked in their lifetime, compared to 8.2 percent of Caucasian women. The study also shows that 90 percent of all women murdered by boyfriends or husbands were first stalked.

Stalking is generally defined as a course of conduct directed at a person that would cause any reasonable person to be fearful. It can happen during a relationship, after a relationship or when there has not been a relationship.

Stalking does not just happen once; there are often many instances of stalking behaviors. It is more than just following someone around; it often

Rick, Jolene and Gabby Lindner Balsam Lake

Charlotte’s Web Over the last six weeks, we at Festival Theatre have had the privilege of working with a group of community actors to stage a familiar children’s story, “Charlotte’s Web.” Children’s theatre in this form has never been done at Festival Theatre, and it’s been a unique and wonderful challenge to get 35 random cast members united for the stage.

On March 6-9, audiences will see a polished and entertaining performance, a truly wonderful display of theatrical talent from our young actors and a few not quite as young. What won’t be so obvious is the irreversible transformation that has occurred in each of these individuals. Many hours of intense

work and hefty amounts of dedication and courage are required in the adventure of making theater. But theater is one of those activities that gives back.

After the show is over, all that we’ve done together will live on as a permanent imprint of joyful gratification. It’s been excellent to watch our cast grow as actors and as friends. As Wilbur astutely says, “Friendship is one of the most satisfying things in the world.”

We’re so proud of this group and so thankful to you, parents and families, for making it possible for your child to be involved. Please just know that it’s been a rare and wonderful experience working with this cast.

Amy Klein, arts education director Jeanette Abdo, director Festival Theatre St. Croix Falls

Seniors, file for taxes Seniors with limited means who normally don't need to file a federal tax return must do so this year in order to receive their payment under the recently enacted economic stimulus package.

This includes 20 million seniors who rely primarily on Social Security who are eligible to receive $300 per individual or $600 per couple under the new law.

The IRS says it will work with the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration and beneficiary groups to inform these individuals that they must file a tax return to receive their payment.

The volunteers at the AARP tax aid sites in Polk and Burnett counties are ready to assist seniors to file these returns. Consult the senior center in your area for the schedule of tax help.

Mary Poretti Burnett County Coordinator.

Siren

Fiscal foolishness

Few know the importance of Wisconsin's Patient Compensation Fund. Wisconsin Law requires that physicians, hospitals and some nurses contribute money into this fund to compensate patients when they are injured in the process of health care. There is no taxpayer money in it. It's an insurance

Stalking can happen to anyone includes continuous phone calls, letters, threats, or vandalism at home or at work. Even acts that would normally be considered nice, like flowers, can be fearful for the stalking victim.

Stalking leaves the victim fearful 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There is no safe place if a stalker knows where the victim is. Victims spend their days and nights looking over their shoulder, and it causes a great deal of physical and emotional damage. It affects the victim in several ways; they can experience sleeplessness, anxiety, guilt, depression, withdrawal or suffer post-traumatic stress disorder. It not only affects the victim, but their family, friends, neighbors and co-workers as well.

Stalkers are not easy to identify. They can come from every walk of life and socioeconomic background. A large majority are obsessed with the victims, controlling them, and determined to use any means to keep the victims in their power. Today’s technology has made stalking much easier. Stalkers

can create Web sites to monitor or harm the victim, install spyware on the victim’s computer, put global positioning systems in the victim’s car or shoes to track where the victim’s travels or they can use a cell phone as a surveillance device as well.

Stalking is unpredictable and dangerous. If you are a victim of stalking you can take steps to increase your safety. Victims of stalking who are in immediate danger should call 911.

Always trust your instincts and do not downplay the danger; if you feel unsafe, then you probably are unsafe.

Take threats seriously; danger is usually highest when the stalker talks about suicide, murder or when a victim tries to end the relationship. Don’t communicate with the stalker or respond to their attempts to contact you. Consider getting a personal alarm or pepper spray. Victims should report the stalking to law enforcement and carefully document evidence by writing down the times, dates and places they are stalked. Keep e-mails, phone messages,

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

fund that belongs to Wisconsin citizens.

Because the state continues to spend more than taxes will allow, the governor this year took $200 million from this fund to balance his budget. And now the fund is in deficit and had to borrow money to meets its legal obligations for solvency.

State government, like citizens have to live within their means. You should know about two actions aiming to correct the problem: First, the Wisconsin Medical Society is suing the state to recover the lost funds. You can follow this on the society's Web site, www.wisconsinmedicalsociety.org.

Second, with bipartisan support, the Wisconsin Legislature has on its agenda a joint resolution to amend the Wisconsin Constitution to prevent future administrations from this kind of budget foolishness. Please contact your representatives in the Assembly and Senate and ask them to be sure that AJR 34 is passed this year. If two Legislatures pass this bill (each year for two years), then it goes to the citizens for approval in a referendum. If approved by the citizens, it becomes part of our state constitution and this kind of fiscal foolishness will be stopped.

Norman Jensen, M.D. Professor, Emeritus, General Internal Medicine Fellow, University of Wisconsin Teaching Academy President-elect, American Academy on Communication in Healthcare Madison and Siren

More letters, next page

Letters to the editor

The Leader welcomes letters to the editor. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Letters are subject to being edited for length, taste and/or clarity, and we urge writers to be brief and limit their letters to 500 words or less. Writers must provide their name and give their complete address and phone number.

Content that will cause letters to be rejected include: Crude language, poor taste, disrespectful comments regarding a group’s or individual’s ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race; other incendiary language, poetry or personal attacks.

letters, notes, and anything sent by the stalker. Photograph anything of yours the stalker damages or injuries the stalker causes and ask witnesses to write down what they saw. Stalking is a criminal offense under the laws of all 50 states.

You can also receive support from a crisis hotline, or a domestic violence/sexual assault victim services agency. These agencies can help victims devise a safety plan, including things like changing your routine, finding a safe place to stay, and having someone go places with you. Also, decide ahead of time what to do if the stalker shows up at your home, work, school or anywhere else you might be.

Alert friends, family, roommates, and co-workers about the stalking and get their support and help. The agency or advocate can also help you learn about local laws, find services, and take additional steps, such as seeking a restraining order.

If you or someone you know is being stalked, call LeAnn Mulroy at the St. Croix Tribal Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Program at 1-800-236-2195 ext.

5250 or 715-645-0260 or 1-800-FYICALL.

n e w s p a p e r

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r St. Croix The way I understand it, these two words are French, meaning holy cross.

For those of you who have not heard about, or have not had the privilege of seeing them, we have a very impressive hill, about five miles north of St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 8 that has three crosses on it. It is off to the northwest a couple of miles off Hwy. 87.

The crosses are lit up at night, and are quite visible from several different spots on Hwy. 87. They can also be seen during the daylight hours, but a better view can be had by going west a couple of miles, on Otter Slide Road.

The largest cross, in the middle, is about 23-feet tall, and the two smaller ones are 16- to 18-feet tall.

At this time of year when the Christian Church is observing the season of Lent, and the sacrifice of our savior Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary for our sins, it seems extra fitting to see those crosses as a reminder of what Lent and the celebration of Easter is all about.

Gratitude is extended to Phil and Janice Mevissen and their family for all the hard work and expense of putting it all together. I hear that more is planned for the future.

Donald R. Benson, Taylors Falls

Manipulative Your recent article with the 10 questions from Larry Elder illustrates what is wrong with political discussion in this country today. You stated that his questions were thought provoking. Indeed the questions are designed to provoke people into thinking a certain way.

Here are just two examples of how Mr. Elder is deceptively leading people.

In his first question, Mr. Elder challenges Ms. Clinton’s opposition to the Bush tax cuts on grounds of fairness with this: “Since the top 1 percent of taxpayers - those making more than $364,000 annually - pay 39 percent of all federal income taxes, don't all acrossthe-board tax cuts, by definition, ‘unfairly’ benefit the rich?”

the tax code. The votes for were rolling back part of the tax cuts in order to pay for the war effort. The vote against was because the final bill chose to keep the tax cuts in place and borrow the money to pay for the war. The interest payment on this first installment alone amounts to about what we spend on the entire FDA! Perhaps the prevailing Republican position was correct, but it is going to take a lot of income growth to cover the lost revenue plus the interest incurred by this decision. Our children certainly deserve a more honest discussion of these issues rather than being provoked into laughing at sound bytes that make people look foolish.

Wade Brezina New Richmond Phil Mevissen constructed these three crosses on his property on Otter Slide Trail. The hill can be seen from Hwy. 87 north of St. Croix Falls, and at night, the crosses are lit making a spiritual billboard along the highway.

Several people have stopped in the St. Croix Falls office to report seeing the crosses and requested a photo be placed in the paper and commendations be expressed to Mevissen for his inspiring works. –Photo by Tammi Milberg First, this implies that the Bush tax cuts were across the board. They were not. A new bottom bracket was created with a 5-percent tax cut the middle three tax brackets saw a 3-percent tax cut, and the top bracket saw a 4.6-percent tax cut. There were also cuts to capital gains and estate taxes, which largely benefit the wealthy. Second, he uses the irrelevant statistic that the top 1 percent pay 39 percent of all federal taxes.

According to the CBO, this figure for 2007 is actually 21.1 percent but is still irrelevant, and we ought to know better.

This statistic is repeated so often that people tend to believe that it means the rich are paying more than their fair share. Fairness is a matter of opinion.

(Warren Buffet believes that it is unfair that he pays a lower percentage of his income in taxes than his secretary does.)

If we are going to discuss tax fairness we would have to consider how much the top 1 percent has in proportion to what they pay. Their actual income is unclear for a variety of reasons.

Estimates of their wealth indicate that the top 1 percent have about 40 percent of the wealth in this country and their

share is growing.

For question 2 Mr. Elder uses a quote from President Kennedy to make his assertion that the Bush tax cuts will actually increase tax receipts. Let’s think about it. $1,000 taxed at 39.6 percent will bring in $396. $1,130 at 35 percent yields $395.50. In order to bring in more revenue, the tax cuts will have to cause income to grow by more than 13 percent. Kennedy was referring to a cutting top tax rate from 91 percent to 63 percent. That is a far different incentive than a 4.6-percent cut.

We have to do some serious thinking about what we want for a tax code and what kind of future we will leave for our children. We are in a war that is being waged with borrowed money.

Honest discussion of this has been eclipsed by deceptive sound bytes. "I actually did vote for the $87 billion before I voted against it," has become the very definition of flip-flop. If you honestly look at the bills to which the quote refers, S1634 sponsored, the amendment to S1689 voted for, the bill without the amendment that he voted against, you would see that it was about

Exchanging ideas With the financial stress of our times in federal, county and local governments, we (the people) need to come up with some plans to ease the tax burden.

Taxes are, at this point, in time eating us all alive.

How much longer can we afford this?

While exchanging ideas with a friend, we thought what a great plan it would be for our towns/villages to share administrators. While administrators make between $65,000 and $85,000 a year, this could be a tremendous saving to our towns and villages, which in some cases are located just a few miles apart. Does each town and village really need our own administrator?

This could be accomplished by combining Frederic, Luck, Milltown and Centuria - and do it by vote - maybe even combining with other towns and villages.

This could also apply to our school administrators and police deparatments and other departments.

How about some public input on these concepts?

Eleanore Carlson Frederic

Area Ne ws at a Glance Hunt on for rape suspect

BARRON COUNTY - Law enforcement is on the lookout for a man believed to have perpetrated a violent rape last week in the city of Barron, and authorities are asking for the public’s help in capturing the suspect. The alleged assailant has been identified as 44-year-old Nathan Widmar Fleming of Turtle Lake, although the suspect also has a wide assortment of alias names and birthdates. The criminal complaint and subsequent warrant for Fleming’s arrest were filed Friday on one felony count of second-degree sexual assault. According to the complaint: A 42-year-old woman told detectives that “Nathan” had come over to her apartment Feb. 20 in the city of Barron, and they had begun to watch a movie together. Fleming allegedly then grabbed her, tore off her clothing and sexually assaulted her, despite her physically resisting him by kicking and possibly scratching him. After the alleged assault, the woman said Fleming told her to shower, and he left.

Officers observed bruising to the 42year-old woman’s chest, a cut on her head and several bruises on the woman’s neck. She told authorities that

she thought she lost consciousness at one point, due to being choked, and that the cut on her head might have been caused from when her head hit a futon bed railing. The alleged victim also told police that Fleming had threatened to injure or kill her if she reported the incident to law enforcement. If convicted on the felony charge of second-degree sexual assault, then Fleming faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and $100,000 in fines. – Barron News-Shield

New superintendent

CUMBERLAND - Though not yet official, Barry Rose of Elmwood will assume the post of Superintendent of Cumberland Schools on July 1. Rose will replace Don Groth, who will be retiring. The search for a replacement for retiring superintendent Don Groth invovled many staff and community members, who participated in focus group activities that helped shape the direction of the search. Many of these individuals participated in the eventual interviews and provided valuable input into the selection of Rose, who was selected from an original pool of 15 applicants. School Board President Eric Stone notes, “Rose will bring to Cumberland a strong background in school finance and a commitment to not only maintaining a great school system, but to continue to pursue to the entire community in ways consistent with the

wishes expressed by community members of the search process. Rose has spent the past eight years as the superintendent and high school principal in Elmwood. Prior to his employment with the Elmwood School District, Rose taught driver’s education and physical education in the Baldwin-Woodville School District in Baldwin. While in Baldwin, Rose also served as a coordinator of the school’s SADD group and encouraged juniors and seniors to speak to driver’s education students about the dangers of drinking and driving. – Cumberland Advocate

State patrol asks for help

CHIPPEWA COUNTY The Wisconsin State Patrol is asking for help in its investigation of a crash that claimed the life of a deputy from the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department in January. State patrol officials are looking for witnesses to the accident that took place in the southbound lanes of Hwy. 53 near Bloomer at around 9:45 p.m. Deputy Jason Zunker was killed when he was struck by a car while directing traffic near a truck fire that was ongoing.

State patrol officials say that their investigation has determined that an unidentified individual in the southbound lane may have witnessed the accident that claimed Zunker’s life and

they are trying to locate the individual.

If anyone witnessed the accident or know someone who did they are asked to contact the state patrol’s Eau Claire post at 715.839.3800. – New Richmond News

Footprints lead to arrest

RICE LAKE - A 23-year old man has been implicated in three burglaries at which significant vandalism took place in Chetek early last week. Frank R. Hoffman II, of Chetek appeared in Barron County Circuit Court on Monday, Feb. 18, for an initial hearing on a charge of burglary. Judge James Babler set bail at $1,000 cash, which Hoffman has posted. A preliminary hearing is set for next Wednesday.

Burglarized and vandalized on Feb. 11 were Jennings Law Office, Badger State Recovery and the Calhoun Memorial Library, which are all within a block of each other. Chetek Police Department officers were led to Hoffman after a cell phone belonging to him was found in a freezer at one of the businesses.

Hoffman’s alleged culpability was sealed after he left his footprint in a scattering of fresh snow placed outside the police department. The print matched those found at the burglary scenes. – Rice Lake Chronotype

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Daniels county-zoning request goes back to committee

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Discussion of a resolution that would allow the town of Daniels to adopt county zoning prompted a great deal of discussion at the Feb. 21 meeting of the Burnett County Board of Supervisors.

According to procedure, a petition to this effect from the town of Daniels was the subject of a Feb. 5 public hearing conducted by the county’s land use/zoning committee. After discussion, that committee recommended that the county board approve the addition of the township to county zoning. The recommendation included a provision to amend the zoning of the Siren National Golf Course property from A2 (agricultural) to RR-3 (residential/recreational).

Mary Falk, a member of the land use/zoning committee, referred to this as a confusing situation. She explained that golf course owner, Robert T. Schmidt, wanted his property to be a planned unit development, but that PUD plans have not been developed except for a small area within the property lines. According to Falk, the committee recommended the RR-3 zoning to allow Schmidt to come back with PUD planning.

Supervisor Gary Lundberg made the motion that was passed by the county board by a roll-call vote of 12 supervisors in favor, six against, to send the resolution back to committee for more dialogue and re-evaluation.

Ryan Benson, attorney for Schmidt, told the board that Schmidt would agree to have the resolution go back to committee and that he wants PUD zoning for the whole property. “The board of Daniels Township developed (county zoning) to block any development at the golf course,” Benson commented. He explained that over $1 million has already been spent on the golf course, and that sending the resolution back to committee would help keep unnecessary litigation from going forward.

“We are not anti-development,” said Daniels Town Supervisor Tim Tjader.

“We would like it in a reasonable way, not 300 homes in the middle of a rural neighborhood (the golf course proposal).”

Town chairman Dan Peterson also expressed the concern over 300 homes going in on golf course property. He told the supervisors that a committee of 10 township people (three board members, seven from the community) held a

Buck Gooding from the Burnett County Lakes and Rivers Association urged the Burnett County Board to accept a county ordinance that would make it illegal for anyone to have dangerous aquatic plants on equipment coming into county lakes.

According to Gooding, Bayfield County has already passed such an ordinance. “In Burnett County, two lakes have milfoil. In some counties in the southern part of the state, there are 45 lakes with Eurasian milfoil. We want to make sure it doesn’t happen here,” Gooding told the board at their Feb. 21 meeting. total of nine meetings to discuss the zoning issue, and that the committee agreed that county zoning was the best way for them to go.

“The golf course didn’t come up at those meetings,” Peterson said. “We believed that the golf course was going forward, and we didn’t have a say in it.

We went ahead to talk about the future.

We couldn’t afford to have our own zoning, and had no means of enforcement. We voted to go with county zoning. Our community is going to work with Schmidt in the future. We have done our part of what the county wants us to do to be part of county zoning.”

Other zoning issues The county board approved a resolution recommending denial, with four supervisors voting in opposition, from F-1 (forestry) to RR-3 (residential/recreational) on a request from Scott, Paul, Wayne and Dean Anderson for the rezone on shore-land area along the Yellow River in the town of Sand Lake.

Four supervisors voted against denial.

Jim Shives spoke up in agreement with the denial, explaining that he, his Dan Peterson, chairman of the Daniels Town Board, and board member Tim Tjader (seated) came to the Burnett County Feb. 21 board meeting because of a resolution allowing the town of Daniels to be part of the county’s landuse ordinance.

By roll-call vote of the supervisors, the resolution was sent back to committee for more dialogue and reevaluation.

Kevin Peterson and his wife, Julie, accepted the copy of an approved resolution acknowledging the dedicated work and contributions of Peterson’s father, Burnett County Supervisor Charles F. Peterson, during the county board meeting Thursday, Feb. 21. The elder Peterson, who had been a county board supervisor for the past 10 years, died Jan. 20. “We will forever be grateful for his service … and the board does hereby offer their deepest sympathy to the family,” the resolution stated. father (who owned the original farmstead) and brothers had been in the military, serving all over the world. There is no easement to their property which is in an area of natural resources. It was the place they wanted to settle down on, and they wanted to keep it as it is.

Paul Anderson asked that the zoning request be sent back to committee for a revote. He mentioned an unoccupied eagle’s nest on the property that he felt was part of the zoning decision. He was told that the eagle’s nest was not an issue, that the issue centered on the integrity of the river and that the area was all agriculture or forestry.

According to Ro Endresen, who serves on the Sand Lake Town Board, the township did not agree or disagree with the zoning change. “Three other particles have been approved under similar conditions,” Endresen commented.

A resolution to remove a parcel of land from RR-1 zoning and rezone it PUD in the town of Oakland was sent back to the county’s administration committee to clarify the language in the PUD agreement.

Supervisor Gary Lundberg said that he had voted against the rezone in committee, believing that, because of the wording in the PUD covenant, the county would be responsible for putting in a road, sewer and electricity and the main walking trails. “I don’t think it’s the right time to be spending money,” Lundberg said.

County board chair Larry Main disagreed in regard to the county paying for services, saying that the county will be putting in a road but will not be authorizing funding in any other way.

A resolution to amend the county land use/zoning ordinance will be referred back to policy and planning to look at one more time before the board takes final action.

Other actions by the board During the Feb. 21 meeting, the county board approved: 1) A resolution authorizing withdrawals from Bremer Trust, N.A. by county treasurer Joanne Pahl, county clerk Wanda Hinrichs or Clifford L. Main. 2) A resolution establishing $15 an hour as the rate, and IRS standard mileage rate, for travel for county commissioners of condemnation. Prior to that, the compensation had been $10 per hour and 26 cents per

mile. The latter rate has been used since April 1, 1994. The change was recommended by Judge Mike Gableman, and reimbursement of the costs comes from the Department of Transportation. 3) Appointment of county emergency fire wardens. 4) Appointment of Supervisor Gene Olson to the natural resources committee.

As part of his chairman’s report, Main told the board he will be working with policy and planning to set a date for an awareness-of-county-government open house. The board watched a 10-minute video put out by Wisconsin Way, a grassroots effort across the state to address major issues in Wisconsin.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

Bryce Luchterhand, director of Gov. Jim Doyle’s Northern District Office, congratulated the Burnett County Board on their willingness to have public comment on their meeting agendas. “Many counties don’t allow public comment,” Luchterhand told the board when he visited their Feb. 21 meeting to talk about what the governor is doing to promote growth in the state. Included was an 8-percent increase in Wisconsin exports over the past five years, and agriculture exports that are up by 45 percent due to the shipping of whey waste products to China.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Phase 2 expansion completed at NWVM Cemetery SPOONER — The Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Spooner, has recently completed Phase 2 of the cemetery expansion.

The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs received a grant from the USDVA State Cemetery Grants Program in the amount of $622,580.

Phase 2 expansion now offers the following additional interment options for burial at the cemetery: 704 columbarium niches for cremation, above ground; 450

in-ground burial spaces for cremation; 460 casket burial spaces for outside dealer vaults; and scattering area for cremation. Also included was a second building at the maintenance facility for additional storage of equipment.

The first burial at this facility was on Nov. 10, 2000. This epansion will meet the needs for the next eight to 10 years.

Additional phases of construction of the cemetery will continue as the need arises. — from Washburn County Veterans Service Office

Danbury Fire and Rescue donated to Interfaith Caregivers

Each year Danbury Fire and Rescue donates part of the proceeds from their Hunters Dinner to Interfaith Caregivers and their Helping Hands Christmas for Kids program. This picture includes Barb and Denny Blodgett receiving a check from George Costello who represents Danbury Fire and Rescue. Each and every penny received is put towards the program Christmas for Kids. Each donation is received with the grateful hearts of the children who receive the gifts and Interfaith Caregivers who run the program. – Photo submitted

Webster 7-12 spring concert set WEBSTER – The Webster music department will be having its annual 712 spring concert on Tuesday, March 4, at 7 p.m., in the cafetorium. The junior/senior high choirs and bands, under the leadership of James Muus and Julie Strang, will be performing a

variety of musical selections, some of which will also be performed at the large-group District Festival on the following Tuesday at Siren High School.

The concert is free, and everyone is encouraged to come and enjoy an evening of great music. – submitted

St. Croix Tavern patrons donate to food shelf

Kathy Cross of the St. Croix Tavern is pictured with Eloise Anderson of the St. Croix Falls food shelf. Cross presented a check to Anderson for the food shelf Feb. 21 in the amount of $500 and two boxes of food from patron donations. Cross said that people remember the food shelf at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but she and her patrons wanted to make sure it isn’t forgotten in the other winter months when the shelves can run low. – Photo by Tammi Milberg

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Brand honored Don Brand (L), Siren, was honored for 50 years membership in the American Legion at the Feb. 21 meeting of Lund Brown Post 132, Siren.

Post Commander Lyle Johnson presented Brand with a certificate of appreciation from National Headquarters. It should be noted that the black MIA standard on the chair in of Brand and front Johnson signifies the Legions’ honoring of those veterans who are missing in action. – Photo submitted

New fish virus threatens waterways

MADISON - The Department of Natural Resources is warning of another fish virus that is not harmful to humans, but which can damage a smaller number of fish than the high-profile viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus.

The DNR says this other virus doesn’t have a name because it can’t be grown in the lab, but it can cause the disease lymphosarcoma in certain fish species, including northern pike and muskies.

Symptoms of the disease include cancerous sores on the skin and in the muscle of the fish, and especially for muskies, the disease can be deadly.

DNR fish health specialist Sue Marcquenski says the disease probably spreads during spawning. She says when an uninfected fish brushes up against some of the viral cells of an infected fish, viral particles in those cells are sloughed off and can infect the other fish.

The DNR recently decided that a northern pike caught near Sturgeon Bay had sores caused by lymphosarcoma, and not by viral hemorrhagic septicemia, as first thought. In fact, the DNR says public awareness of VHS may be triggering more findings of lymphosarcoma, which has been around a while and was found in four different parts of Wisconsin just last year. Even so, the DNR urges anglers to help slow the spread of lymphosarcoma by cleaning fishing equipment and not moving fish between bodies of water.

Marcquenski also says for taste reasons, people don’t want to eat the infected fish. She says the infected muscle will become not as firm and will be watery, and there may be dead cells in that area.

However, she stresses that humans are not at risk from lymphosarcoma in fish. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Chuck Quirmbach)

Chain Saw winner Jack Elliott of the Webster Athletic Association presented Dan Weber, Rush City, Minn., the $300 chain saw donated by Stephen Bensen of Webster Ace Hardware. Proceeds from the drawing will benefit Webster Athletic Association. – submitted

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

Live jazz in Luck March 8 Sue Orfield Band back to benefit Lamar LUCK - After touring Europe, two appearances at the Dakota Club in downtown Minneapolis, and a brand new CD of original music, saxophonist Sue Orfield and her band will back for a benefit on behalf of Lamar on March 8, from 8 – 11 p.m. at Café Wren in Luck.

Orfield, loved for her skilled and passionate performance style, continued growing her international reputation this past year by touring with The Tiptons, an all-female saxophone quartet that regularly plays castles and clubs in Europe. Orfield also increased her visibility among Twin Cities audiences with two shows at the celebrated Dakota Club where she performed with the Mary Louise Knutson Jazz Trio and the legendary Willie Walker and the

Butanes. Sue topped off the year with a new CD entitled “Now Let Us Sing.”

Every track is entirely instrumental and every track sings with the voice of Orfield’s sax. The eclectic song list includes Bluegrass, Rhumba, Blues, and her own personal fusion. “I like everything,” says Orfield.

Indeed she does. Though Orfield is known as a blues saxophonist and was voted Best Blues Horn of the Year for five years while living in Seattle, she also plays her original music, jazz standards, Rock n’ Roll, and Country.

Orfield has two musical goals, “I want to play my original music and find the audience for it; I want to have as many different experiences musically as I can in my life.” Her versatility goes beyond the concert hall and club venue. She composes and arranges for The Tiptons and the Sue Orfield Band. She is Artistin-Residence at North Memorial High

School in Eau Claire and also teaches private lessons.

Sue will be fronting the Sue Orfield Band in her appearance on behalf of Lamar. “I love the guys in my band.

I’ve been playing with them for two years and they’re fabulous musicians and wonderful people,” says Orfield.

Mike Schlenker on guitar wowed audiences in a duet with Ellen Whyte at the Lamar Music Festival last year.

Schlenker plays with the Blues Allstars, a multitude of other bands, and owns Speed of Sound music store in Eau Claire. Randy Sinz on bass plays with Rada Dada, Code Blue, and Katya’s Trio, all out of Eau Claire. He recently cut another CD with the Brewmasters and works as a financial planner in his free time. Dave Shrader on drums has been playing in bands since his high school years, currently plays in Rada Dada and Code Blue in addition to the

Sue Orfield Band, and for fun owns Shrader Heating and Electric.

Orfield is heading back to Europe this summer and will also be on tour with Blues singer-songwriter Ellen Whyte from Portland, Ore., July 31-Aug. 13.

Her Web site www.sueorfield.com lists upcoming shows.

Lamar – A Historic Center for Progressive Community located in rural St. Croix Falls is dedicated to supporting community by creating vital connections and offering programming that responds to community needs and inspires a greater vision. Café Wren is located at 2596 Hwy. 35 just north of Luck, and has collaborated with Lamar on smoke-free music events for listeners and dancers for three years. Tickets are $10 at the door. For more information on Lamar visit www.lamarcommunity.org. - submitted

Auditions Monday for “Snow White” FREDERIC – Auditions for Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre’s original production of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” will be held at 3:30 p.m.

Monday, March 3, at the Frederic Elementary School.

A total of 73 Frederic area children are needed to play the roles of Snow White, The Prince, The Seven Dwarfs, The Mirror, The Ravens, The Spellbinders,

The Forest Creatures and the Townspeople.

Assistant directors are also needed.

Two professional actors will play the roles of the Huntsman and the Evil Queen and will also direct the production.

Auditions are open to anyone in the Frederic School District, grades 2-12.

The audition process lasts two hours,

and all those who audition are required to be in attendance the entire time. No preparation is necessary to audition.

Rehearsals will be held from 3:35 to 8 p.m. the remainder of the week.

Those who plan to audition should make sure their schedules are clear.

Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the Frederic Elementary

Gym. Tickets will be available at the door ($5 adults, $3 children 3 to 18).

This Prairie Fire residency is being sponsored by Frederic Community Education with the help of a grant from Polk-Burnett Operation Roundup.

For more information contact Ann Fawver at 327-4868. - submitted

Ruby’s Pantry was well-attended LUCK – The Ruby’s Pantry surplus food distributions in the area are wellattended and appreciated. Coordinating these food distributions is energizing and rewarding, yet not always predictable. The distribution for Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the Luck School bus garage was one of these days. A cold day below zero degrees, and a late truck delivery could have turned a sunny day into a disaster, but not so at the Luck distribution. As folks started to arrive for the distribution, they were given a form to complete in the warmth of their vehicles, and asked to wait patiently. About 80 volunteers also waited in the bus garage. Lyn Sahr, founder of Ruby’s Pantry, spoke with the volunteers about the local need the food distribution fulfills, and how positive volunteers are crucial in every aspect of the program.

Luck has a wonderful “problem” with more people wanting to volunteer than are needed at each distribution. A waiting list has been started for new volunteers.

When the truck arrived with 38 pallets, volunteers set to work unloading,

Larry Glenn helps unload pallets.

counting, repackaging and setting up the line. Sahr said the products had a value of about $55,000. In addition to people collecting food that day, the needs of disabled or homebound folks were also met. About 350 families were served through this distribution.

Donated new and used winter coats, mittens and hats were made available on tables outside.

This outreach project is coordinated

by Bone Lake Lutheran Church. This project is possible because Luck School provides the use of the bus garage, Rob Hamann who organizes the site, and the dedicated volunteers (including students from Unity School), and families who came and braved the cold that day.

Many thanks to the sponsors who covered the $475 cost: Luck Lutheran, a Wayne Summerfield memorial and Faith Lutheran of Balsam Lake.

The next distribution is Tuesday, April 15, from noon to 2 p.m. Contact Bone Lake Lutheran at 472-2535 with questions. – submitted

Under Les Schebo's guidance, Rob Hamann uses a forklift to position pallets of food. – Photos submitted

Volunteers repackage bulk lasagna to more usable portions.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Library gets major donations

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–Good news from St. Croix Falls city librarian Sarah Adams was reported at the city council meeting Feb. 25. Adams presented a budget spreadsheet to the council including charts to show where money is coming from and going to for the new city library campaign.

Adams was pleased to announce a donation of $100,000 from Curtis and Margaret Swanson. She said the library also received another generous donation from Ivan Bowen of Traprock, who is donating the aggregate for the cement parking lot and plaza, which will help reduce the cost of that portion of the project considerably.

Licenses approved for new bar owner

by Tammi Milberg TAYLORS FALLS, Minn.–The city of Taylors Falls held its regular council meeting Feb. 25, without a clerk or deputy clerk. Larry Phillips, zoning administrator is filling in until Jo Everson, city clerk, and Jayna Yeske, deputy clerk, can return from medical leave.

Mayor Michael Buchite reported both “Jo and Jayna” as being on the road to

The council approved developer agreements with Dr. Amin Uddin who is co-purchasing and co-developing the library building as condominium and business space at the meeting as well.

A timeline for city projects including the library was also discussed including preparation of project specifications and bidding from now until April 1. From April 1-May 1, the building interior work by Uddin will begin and an open house for Uddin’s portion of the library building would be scheduled for July.

The library public plaza would be finalized in October with an anticipated November library project completion.

In other business, the council approved appointing the following per-

sons to the city tourism committee (former room tax committee): Sue Mathews, Michael Norcross, Arne Calrson, Jackie Alexander, and Jerry Boucher.

The room tax collects an average of $40,000 annually (a 3-percent lodging tax). Of that, 30 percent is designated to tourism development and 70 percent is allocated toward tourism promotion. A certain percentage of that is given to the chamber of commerce, but that is being re-evaluated as is all the other ways the promotional dollars are spent. The ordinance for the room tax is being amended.

The council authorized well maintenance for wells 7 and 9 with the low bid

City gets new fire hydrants

recovery, adding that they are dedicated staff who expressed their concerns about the city running in their absence.

The meeting’s agenda was pretty basic, and included a request from the public works department to purchase two fire hydrants. With four arsons reported in one day in the city limits not even two weeks ago, the council had no trouble approving the request. Two hydrants are purchased each year as a maintenance program by the city. It was noted the hydrant on Mulberry Street and Hwy. 95 is broken and needs replacement. One hydrant purchased will be

used in that location and the other will be kept in reserve as a spare. The cost for both hydrants is $5,133.43 and will be paid for out of the water fund.

The council also approved a series of liquor licenses for Jerr’s Border Bar, which will be owned by Gerald Lamson on March 6, when he is scheduled to close on the building. The business is currently operating as Schmitty’s. The licenses are on-sale and off-sale liquor licenses and a Sunday liquor license with the contingencies that Lamson provides proof of insurance and compliance with a plumbing issue prior to the

for the work coming from Mineral Service Plus. The bid was for two phases for both wells at $21,101. Mineral Service Plus is the company that worked on well number 8, which is now up and running and is renamed well 11.

Well 7 had its last maintenance in 1989 and well 9 had its last maintenance in 1993. Mike Bryant, water department, said that the DNR recommends well maintenance every seven to 10 years and both of these wells are overdue.

The council approved the work and bid for Mineral Service Plus in the amount not to exceed $21,101.

A task order from Cedar Corp for a storm water management planning grant was tabled.

license being issued.

The council approved Eric Garner to attend a wastewater operators conference which is required for him to keep his license, and was recommended by the council liaison. The conference is March 26-28 in Brooklyn Park, Minn.

The council tabled the ordinance for business licenses because it is not ready for action at this time. The council did pass resolutions for the right of way ordinance, the summary publication of the ordinance and the right of way fee schedule.

Informational meetings on 4K at St. Croix Falls to be held

ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix Falls School District is finalizing plans for the addition of a 4-year-old kindergarten program beginning the 2008-2009 school year. The board of education approved the program last spring and elementary Principal Jeff Benoy, and school psychologist John Gyllen have been researching the topic this year.

The program will be in session four days per week, with morning and after-

noon classes available. Bussing will be provided throughout the day.

The district has met with local childcare providers to discuss the possibility of a community approach in implementing the program. This option would allow local day care centers to contract with the school district to serve a limited number of 4 year olds at their site, offering parents options in community settings. To be eligible, each center

must adhere to strict requirements in accordance with school and state regulations, including the hiring of a certified teacher. This approach would work in conjunction with the traditional school-based model. A decision will be made soon to determine if a community approach would be a viable option for the St. Croix Falls School District.

An informational meeting date will be set for late March or April for all par-

ents of 4 year olds in the St. Croix Falls School District. All interested parties need to contact the St. Croix Falls Elementary office to get on the mailing list. An informational packet will then be sent to parents.

The St. Croix Falls Elementary School Office can be reached at 715-483-9823 ext. 100. – from SCF School District

Knitting for Charity Class produces hats, blankets

FREDERIC - Frederic’s Community Education offered a Knitting for Charity Class in January. The four-week class, taught by Konnie Didlo, featured knitting chemo hats, newborn hats and afghan squares to make blankets to give away. The knitting students included a cross-section of knitting experiences from beginners to very experienced.

The students had a great time knitting a colorful variety of adult hats with “fun fur” and tiny baby hats. Show and Tell is a favorite part of each session as the enthusiastic knitters share knitting triumphs, questions and a few rip-it-outand-start-over moments.

The St. Croix Regional Medical Center, SCRMC, was selected to receive these colorful, soft, fun and useful creations to give to the newborns and to patients experiencing hair loss due to chemo or other conditions.

Mickey Gebhard, the SCRMC Volunteer Coordinator, accepted the hats for the hospital and responded gratefully, “These soft, colorful, and warm gifts are very much appreciated by our chemo patients and new parents.

Our volunteers and staff enjoy having such beautiful items to give. Thank you to the talented Frederic Knitting Group for choosing SCRMC as your charity project recipient! Your hats will help keep many warm this frigid season.”

St. Croix Regional Medical Center has many volunteering opportunities for people of all ages, interests and talents.

You don’t have to knit and purl. Call Mickey at 1-800-642-1336 ext. 2331 with questions about volunteering at

Members of the Knitting for Charity Class. Back row (L to R): Mande Kuechenmeister, Darian Ogilvie, Dawn Ogilvie, Kandis Olson, Kris Pyke, Colleen Draxler, Nancy Anderson, Lisa Olson and Konnie Didlo. Front: Danielle Nelson, LaRayne Ayd and LaVerne Leep. Knitters not shown: Debbie Rudell, Nancy Buley and Verlene Pearson. – Photo by Justin Pyke SCRMC. Frederic’s Community Education will be offering another knitting class, Hats Off To You, beginning on Monday, March 3, from 6-8 p.m. at the Frederic High School. Join an energetic group of

knitters and learn how to knit a rolled brim, a mock cable, a simple Fair Isle, a cute cable band, earflap and bobbles hats. This class is for all skill levels.

Beginners are welcome. Knitters may bring their own projects to work on.

Register for the class by calling Ann Fawver, Frederic Community Education, at 715-327-4868. Questions may be directed to Konnie Didlo, class instructor, at 715-653-2619. - submitted

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

Edward Jones opens of ce in St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS – Rebecca Berg announced recently that she has opened an Edward Jones office in St. Croix Falls at 102 N. Washington St., Suite A. Berg, a Grantsburg native, has been working with financial advisor Tom Klugow in Osceola to serve investors throughout the Polk County area.

“We’re very proud to have Rebecca on board as we become part of the Polk County community,” said James D. Weddle, managing partner of Edward Jones.

“Rebecca brings a level of commitment and enthusiasm that is certain to benefit her clients.”

Berg said she is excited to be opening a new office for a firm that has built a reputation on serving individual investors.

“I’m eager to become acquainted with all the people of Polk County,” Berg said. “I’m looking forward to settling down here, and have enjoyed becoming an active member of the community.”

Berg and her branch office administrator, Melissa LaRue, would also like to invite the public to join them as they celebrate the grand opening for their new office on Thursday, March 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. “We are planning an informal affair with fun and refreshments for the entire family,” Berg added.

Edward Jones provides financial services for indi-

vidual investors in the United States and, through its affiliates, in Canada and the United Kingdom. Every aspect of the firm’s business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm’s 10,000-plus financial advisors work directly with more than s7 million clients to understand their personal goals – from college savings to retirement – and create long-term investment strategies that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy.

Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.

Edward Jones is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones interactive Web site is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting Web site is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC. - submitted

Rebecca Berg, financial advisor for Edward Jones, (L) and on the right is Melissa LaRue, branch office administrator. — Photo submitted

A mammoth celebration Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation celebrates 50 years of creating, supporting and protecting the Ice Age National Scenic Trail MADISON —Since 1958, the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation, a nonprofit volunteer- and memberbased organization headquartered in Madison, has been working to build and promote the Ice Age Trail, a thousand-mile footpath through Wisconsin highlighting the state’s world-renowned geologic features and scenic beauty. This year represents the IAPTF’s 50th anniversary, and the organization has grand plans to celebrate the Ice Age Trail’s past, present and future while increasing awareness of the trail throughout Wisconsin.

The anniversary celebrations will begin at the birthplace of the Ice Age Trail, the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The IAPTF will hold its 50th Anniversary Celebration Kickoff and Annual Membership Conference, April 16–20, at Camp Matawa in Campbellsport (Fond du Lac County). The four days of informative presentations and group hikes will include a talk by the Milwaukee Public Museum’s Carter Lupton. He will share the story of the renowned Hebior Mammoth, the most complete mammoth skeleton in North America and the subject of an upcoming MPM exhibit and tour. The conference’s presentations and group hikes are open to IAPTF members and nonmembers alike.

In June, the IAPTF will invite the public to take part in a one-day Mammoth Walk of the entire Ice Age Trail. The walk will take place on National Trails Day, on Saturday, June 7, with the IAPTF’s 21 volunteer chapters around the state welcoming families, nature enthusiasts, weekend walkers and serious hikers to participate in group hikes exploring the Trail. Between sunrise and sunset, chapters will organize participants so that every mile of the trail is covered.

In autumn, the IAPTF will begin to look forward to the next 50 years and beyond with a fall rendezvous scheduled for September in the remarkable Chippewa Moraine region of the Ice Age Trail (Chippewa County). As with the two previous events above, this long-weekend get-together will be open to anyone looking to learn more about the trail.

In addition to events on the Ice Age Trail, the IAPTF is pleased to announce the release of three new books as part of the 50th anniversary celebration. Along Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail is a coffee-table book featuring 120 color photos of the trail by renowned photographer Bart Smith, a foreword by Congressman David Obey and essays on a variety of trail-related topics.

The book is published by and will be available from the University of Wisconsin Press in April. That same month, the IAPTF will release fully updated editions of its popular guidebooks, the Ice Age Trail Atlas and the Ice Age Trail Companion Guide. The guidebooks books will be available at www.iceagetrail.org.

The Ice Age Trail, one of only eight National Scenic Trails, is the brainchild of Raymond T. Zillmer, a Milwaukee attorney and avid outdoorsman. In the 1950s, Zillmer promoted the idea of a long-distance hiking trail that would allow Wisconsinites to experience wilderness near their homes, rather than having

to drive thousands of miles to remote national parks.

Wisconsin’s Ice Age heritage was the perfect theme for such a trail, as the state is home to some of the finest examples in the world of continental glaciation’s effects on a landscape. To build support for the idea, Zillmer founded the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation in 1958.

As a result of years of work by IAPTF volunteers, along with critical support from the National Park Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, county and local partners and private landowners, today’s Ice Age Trail route courses more than a thousand miles from Potawatomi State Park in Door County to Interstate State Park on the Wisconsin–Minnesota border. The path welcomes those looking to explore Wisconsin on foot, either by walking, hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing or crosscountry skiing. While more than three dozen hikers have covered the entire thousand miles, the trail, thanks to its many access points, is also well suited to leisurely walks and day hikes. The trail has many segments in very remote locations, but also has many others within or just a short drive from cities such as Sturgeon Bay, Manitowoc, West Bend, Milwaukee, Janesville, Madison, Portage, Wausau and St. Croix Falls. True to Zillmer’s vision of accessible wilderness, an Ice Age Trail segment can be found within 10 miles of 25 percent of Wisconsinites.

For more information on the anniversary events or new books, or for general information about the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation, call the IAPTF at 800-227-0046 or visit the IAPTF Web site, www.iceagetrail.org. — sÍÍubmitted

Girl Scouts at winter camp “Northwoods”

The Girl Scouts enjoying winter camp and playing in the snow. Shown are in no particular order are Cora Bauer, Jessica Bauer, Paula Antill, Barbie Antill, Tessa Johnson and Melissa Erickson.

Local Girl Scouts enjoy a day of tubing at Wild Mountain. Shown clockwise: front Cora Bauer, Barbie Antill, Jessica Bauer, Vickie Bauer and Paula Antill. – Photos submitted

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Formal approval given to roundabout

by Sherill Summer SIREN – The Wisconsin DOT has formally approved a roundabout solution for the intersection of Hwys. 35 and 70, north of Siren. Construction is scheduled for 2011. It is possible that some DOT activity may be seen as soon as next year.

The roundabout at the intersection will be much larger than the roundabouts in Rice Lake. As of now, the proposed roundabout is as shown and will be approximately about the size of the current intersection. The shown roundabout is designed to handle approximately 20,000 vehicles daily.

The roundabout design may change, however, after the DOT studies the intersection further.

Help your teen make sound decisions Your teenager and her friends are leaving the high school basketball game when some classmates who have been drinking offer them a ride. Would your daughter accept the ride?

According to Marilyn Kooiker, University of Wisconsin-Extension Burnett County Family Living Agent, understanding the way teens sometimes think when they make decisions can give parents some insight into how their children behave.

“Teens often visualize either-or choices,” Kooiker says. “For a teen, thinking of all the possible choices, especially in a difficult situation, can be quite challenging.”

For example, a teen might think: “Either I drink beer with my friends or I look like a loser,” or “If I don’t have sex with my boyfriend, he’ll break up with me.” There are other options, but your teen’s concern about how friends and peers will react makes the decision difficult. Keep in mind that, at this

The project is expected to cost less than $1 million.

Roundabout plan considered for the intersection on Hwys. 35 and 70, north or Siren. Formal approval was given for a roundabout solution for the dangerous intersection.

However, the final roundabout plan may look different than this plan. – submitted by Burnett County Highway department

stage of their lives, teenagers tend to focus on the present rather than thinking of the possible Marilyn long-term Kooiker c o n s e quences of their actions.

Kooiker offers these tips to help FAMILY parents.

LIVING • Be a good role m o d e l .

Make decisions that are healthy for you and those who are important to you.

Think about the consequences of your own actions and talk about what you might have had to give up in exchange for the choices you’ve made.

• Encourage your teen to think about the feelings and emotions that come along with a choice and the conse-

BURNETT COUNTY

quences of their actions on other people. Would your teen be disappointed to miss grandpa’s birthday to go see a movie with a friend? How might grandpa feel?

• Teach your teen to get accurate information about different options.

For example, use the Internet together to look up different colleges or tech schools. What jobs are possible with different types of degrees?

• Work through the decision-making process along with your teen. Let your child talk first, and together come up with choices and consequences.

“Let teens practice making decisions about easy things first,” says Kooiker; for example, what color to paint their bedroom, after-school activities to participate in or how to wear their hair.

Also important for parents is knowing what not to do. For example: • Don’t criticize your teen’s ideas.

Instead, encourage them to think of more ideas. Ask them about other ways to handle the situation. Take advantage of this opportunity to build a warm and supportive relationship with your teen.

This relationship is key to your teen’s

healthy development.

• Don’t make all the decisions. Offer guidance and then support the choices your teen makes–even if they’re not the same ones you would have made.

• Don’t forget to talk to teens after they’ve acted on a decision. What worked? What happened that was unexpected? What would they do differently next time?

• Don’t say, “I told you so.” Most of us have a few decisions we regret in our past. The good news is that your teen is learning and each decision is helping to prepare for the next.

For more information on parenting teenagers, contact Marilyn Kooiker, Family Living Agent at the Burnett County UW-Extension office, Siren, 349-2151 or via e-mail at Marilyn.Kooiker@ces.uwex.edu. You may also visit the Extension Learning Web site at Store http://learningstore.uwex.edu/Parent ing-Teenagers-C76.aspx.

Webster graduate on CBS reality show

by Sherill Summer WEBB LAKE – Webster 2002 graduate and former Webb Lake resident Amanda Hansen has spent the last three weeks in the national spotlight.

She is currently a houseguest on CBS’s reality show, “Big Brother 9: ‘Till Death Do You Part.” Her stay may be nearing its end. As with many reality shows, contestants are voted from the show, and, as of Tuesday’s show, Feb. 26, it appears as if Hansen is close to being voted from the show. However, since the show encourages twists and turns, alliances and betrayals, it is impossible to guess if and when she will be voted off the show.

Mother, Debra Hansen, and stepfather, Mike Westeen, of Webb Lake have been unwavering in their support. They are also somewhat prepared for any unkind comments aired on national TV about her. Big Brother’s staff spent time with the family beforehand to explain the reality that nasty things can be said during the course of the show. It is a game.

If Hansen can survive tomorrow’s vote and stay on the show, it is possible that crews will film in the Webb Lake area. Hansen reportedly used to work at the Lamplighter Inn and the Voyager Village Golf Course.

2002 Webster graduate Amanda Hansen is currently a houseguest on CBS’s reality show, “Big Brother 9.” – from www.cbs.com

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

S

S

I N T E R- C O U N T Y L E A D E R

P O R T

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

Webster escapes another close one five points with just under four minutes to go. But the Lakers quick run soon ended as one of their top players went out with a hyperextended elbow. The Vikings took advantage of Turtle Lake’s loss and continued to play well into the fourth quarter.

“Someone said to me ‘a win’s a win.’

To be honest, that has been said about most of our 18 wins,” said Wink. “We are not flashy, we just seem to get the job done.”

Anderson led the Vikings with 15 points, Ana Miller added 12 and Chenal had eight points on the night. – Marty Seeger

Frederic Vikings advance past Turtle Lake Webster 39, Grantsburg 38

by Brenda Sommerfeld WEBSTER – It was an intense night at the Webster High School when Grantsburg and Webster had another matchup to see who would move on in the regional tournament on Tuesday, Feb. 26. It was a close one, but the Tigers pulled off another win against the Pirates, 39-38, to go on to Thursday’s game.

“It was a battle the whole game,” Grantsburg coach Lisa McKinley explained. “Both teams played tough and fought to the end.”

Grantsburg started the game with the 8-3 lead in the first. They managed to keep a two-point, 16-14, lead through the second when Webster came out stronger.

The Pirates held their two-point lead, 16-14, into the third. The Tigers finally pulled away scoring 11 points while Grantsburg only had eight, winning the game by one point.

“We had a bad pass at the end of the game and they made free throws,”

Extra Points Greg Widiker has an intense timeout with his Webster girls in there close call against Grantsburg on Tuesday night. – Photos by Carl Heidel McKinley said. “When the game is close, you have to take care of the ball and value the possession.”

Webster’s leading scorers were Michelle Gibbs with 11 points and Amanda Alberg with 10 points. Gibbs scored six just during the third period.

Alberg had a big 3-pointer and two free throws during the fourth to help her team win.

Beth Baer managed six points and Sam Hogle put up four.

Grantsburg had Megan Finch score 15 points, most of which were in the second half. Laura Skifstad put up 12 points throughout the game, six in each half.

Ingrid Ames played only the second half and got five points for the Pirates.

Coach Troy Wink said the team played well in spurts. In the first quarter, the Vikings got off to a good start both offensively and defensively taking a 12-5 lead after one. Becca Anderson shot for nine points in the second quarter for Frederic, which helped the team hold a 25-17 lead at the half.

It was Ana Miller’s turn in the third quarter. She shot two from beyond the arc and Melanie Chenal controlled the inside game on offense with six points of her own. But Turtle Lake didn’t go quietly, and the team crept to within

Frederic 52, Turtle Lake 37 FREDERC – The Frederic girls advanced to the regional semifinals with a nice win over Turtle Lake on Tuesday night. This is the second year in a row that the Vikings have been able to advance, and the team will be taking on Clear Lake this Thursday night at Frederic.

Frederic’s Kelly Wondra was not afraid to drive into the Turtle Lake Laker team.

Grantsburg’s Laura Skifstad gets into a mob of orange to shoot the ball.

Team Grantsburg Webster

1 2 3 4 F 8 8 14 8 38 3 11 14 11 39 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Abbey Vaksdal 0 0 0/0 2 0 Sarah Wald 0 0 0/0 2 0 Kortney Morrin 2 0 0/0 2 4 Megan Finch 7 0 1/2 4 15 Ingrid Ames 1 0 3/6 2 5 Stephanie Jensen 0 0 0/0 1 0 Vanessa Kleiss 0 0 0/2 0 0 Alison McKinley 1 0 0/0 0 2 Laura Skifstad 6 0 0/0 3 12 Totals 17 0 4/10 16 38

Team Turtle Lake Frederic

Webster Samantha Hogle Amanda Alberg Kathryn Krause Chris Stoll Leah Janssen Beth Baer Rose Kopecky Michelle Gibbs Totals

Turtle Lake Alex Tschida Tricia Hanson Holly Raffesberger Heather Peteson Rayanna Blackwell Malorie Nyhus Kris Wick Olivia Westlund Totals

2s 2 2 1 0 1 3 1 4 14

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 1 1 3/4 3 0 0/0 2 0 2/2 0 0 0/0 0 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 1 0 3/6 1 1 8/14 10

TP 4 10 2 2 2 6 2 11 39

1 2 3 4 F 5 12 10 10 37 12 13 14 8 52 Individual Statistics Frederic 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Ana Miller 3 2 0/0 1 12 Kelly Wondra 0 0 2/5 2 2 Erin Schmidt 3 0 5/5 4 11 Melanie Chenal 4 0 0/2 2 8 Becca Anderson 4 1 4/5 2 15 Michelle Owens 1 0 0/0 0 2 Lisa Chelmo 0 0 0/0 1 0 Anna Tesch 0 0 0/0 2 0 Chrissy Chenal 0 0 2/2 0 2 Totals 15 3 13/20 14 52

Viking Ana Miller has been hitting some outside the arc shots throughout games this season. – Photos by Marty Seeger

2s 3 4 3 1 0 0 2 0 13

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 0 0 3/5 1 0 4/5 2 1 0/0 4 0 0/0 1 0 1/2 1 0 0/0 4 0 0/0 3 1 8/12 16

TP 6 11 10 5 0 1 4 0 37

••• FREDERIC – Former frederic football standout Jake Schmidt completed a successful football season as a for Bemidji State freshman University. Scmidt played at the defensive back position for a team that earned its 10th consecutive winning season according to a recent press release from the school. The Beavers led the Division 2 Northern Sun Intercollegiate conference in scoring defense and run defense.

Schmidt is currently majoring in political science and pre-law. – Marty Seeger with information from Bemidji State Athletics ••• LEADER LAND – The Frederic girls basketball game versus Clear Lake is being broadcast on Feb 28 on WLMX 104.9 FM starting at 7 p.m.

The Solon Springs at Siren girls basketball game can be heard on WXCX 105.7 FM at 7 p.m. On Feb. 28 the Amery girls basketball game at Somerset is being broadcast on WXCE 1260 AM beginning at 7 p.m.

The Luck boys basketball game versus Thorp can be heard on Feb. 29 beginning at 8 p.m. on WLMX 104.9 FM. If the Luck boys win that game, they will be broadcast again on 104.9 FM on March 1, starting at 7 p.m. The Webster boys basketball game versus Hurley can be heard on WLMX 105.7 FM at 7 p.m. on Feb. 29. If the Webster boys win that game, the following game can be heard on March 1 on 105.7 FM beginning at 7 p.m. - Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – On Feb. 29 the Wisconsin Badger hockey game at St. Cloud State is being broadcast on WXCE 1260 AM starting at 7 p.m.

The second game between the Badgers and St. Cloud State will be broadcast on March 1 at 7 p.m. on WCE 1260 AM. – Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact theLeader 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: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

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

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Nail-biter in bird land Cards off to Spooner after wild one against Clayton Luck 40, Clayton 39

by Marty Seeger CUMBERLAND — In two of the past three years, the Cardinals have had to come from behind in an effort to grasp the regional championship. Their first was a 41-37 comeback win over Frederic in 2006, and their recent regional championship win over Clayton wasn’t much different.

“It was tough, but the kids have been

Luck’s Mitchell Klatt took a deep breath before sinking his game-winning free throw as tension rose in the crowd. – Photo by Sue Tolan

Luck savored their victory over Clayton Saturday afternoon in a game sure to please any basketball fan. – Photo

by Marty Seeger through it all year,” said coach Rick Effertz hit a huge 3-pointer to give Giller.

Clayton the lead, and Derek Stesniak hit See Luck/page 28 Both Clayton and Luck held a patient a 3-point at the buzzer to propel the first quarter, and with one minute left, it Bears to a 19-14 lead at the half.

Team 1 2 3 4 OT F was still a 6-2 game in favor of Luck.

“We got behind at halftime, and I just 8 6 13 9 4 40 Luck Mitchell Klatt hit six of the Cardinals said ‘hey, we’ve been down more than 2 17 11 6 3 39 Clayton Individual Statistics first eight points in the first and their this,’” Giller said. He added, “The kids 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Luck defense went to work holding Clayton wanted to press, and I said let’s go out Mitchell Klatt 3 1 3/7 2 12 to just four. and do it, and they do it very well.”

3 1 0/0 3 9 Cody Richert Harry Severson-Dickinson 0 0 0/0 1 0 It was much the same in the second The Cardinals press created turnovers 5 0 2/3 1 12 Tyler Petersen quarter with Luck getting points on the and left some opportunities on offense, 3 0 1/1 4 7 Brennan Olson inside from Tyler Petersen and Brennan but Clayton had other plans early in the Carson Giller 0 0 0/0 3 0 14 2 6/11 14 40 Totals Olson, who was also coming down with third quarter, and Effertz connected the majority of Luck’s boards in the first again with a 3-pointer that helped 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Clayton Brandon Schaffer 1 0 0/0 0 2 half. But Clayton slowly inched their stretch the Bears lead 26-16 midway Derek Stesniak 1 1 0/0 4 5 way back with a two-point bucket from through the third.

1 3 0/1 3 11 Derek Effertz Derek Effertz, which tied the game for “We’re used to it, I don’t think we got Ryan Zemke 3 0 7/7 2 13 0 0 0/0 3 0 Jordan Anderson the first time, with just under two min- rattled at all,” said Cardinals guard Jordan LaBlanc 3 0 2/2 2 8 utes to go in the half. A minute later Carson Giller.

9 4 9/10 14 39 Totals

Tuesday night girls regional action continued added to their score.

Carley Emery scored 29 points during the first three quarters when she played.

Janey Emery also only played the first three quarters and put up 18 points total.

Ashley Guevara scored 19 points, of which nine were free throws. Lynette Renberg contributed nine and Kendra Jones made four points. – Brenda Sommerfeld

Siren 87, South Shore 30 SIREN – The Dragons were pumped up after the conference champ title and had their act together for the first round of regionals. South Shore was no competition for the Siren team as they walked past them, 87-30, on Tuesday, Feb. 26.

By halftime, the Dragons were up, 5510, due mostly to the Emery girls and layup after layup. The girls were where they were supposed to be and got those shots in time after time.

The second half was higher scoring for the South Shore team, when they put up 20. The Dragons were able to slide right past with 32 more points

See Girls bball/page 28

Team South Shore Siren

1 2 3 4 F 5 5 15 5 30 25 30 12 20 87 Individual Statistics Siren 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Haily Mulroy 0 0 2/4 4 2 Jennifer Mitchell 0 0 0/0 1 0 Sarah Howe 0 0 2/4 1 2 Kelley Wampfler 1 0 0/0 0 2 Carley Emery 10 3 0/4 3 29 Janey Emery 7 1 1/2 4 18 Lynette Renberg 4 0 1/1 0 9 Kendra Jones 2 0 0/0 1 4 Tasha Kosloski 0 0 2/2 0 2 Ashley Guevara 5 0 9/11 1 19 Totals 29 4 17/28 15 87 South Shore Emily Bainbridge Lindsey Olson Taylore Ogren Amy Bainbridge Crystal Volk Kayla Brandmeier Macy Nieder Totals

2s 0 3 2 1 0 1 0 7

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 2 0 5/8 5 1 3/4 2 1 2/4 4 0 0/0 4 0 0/0 3 0 0/0 2 2 10/16 22

TP 0 11 10 7 0 2 0 30

Siren’s Tasha Kosloski (#34) and Jamie Fischbach trap one of South Shore girls during their regional playoff victory on Tuesday night. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

Dragon’s Sarah Howe looks for an open teammate while South Shore comes to stop her.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Tigers grind Grantsburg, anticipate Hurley Webster grabs second consecutive regional title Webster 58, Grantsburg 45

by Marty Seeger AMERY– The Tigers got it done again over Grantsburg for the third consecutive time this season, propelling them to their second consecutive regional title.

“I’m happy for the kids, they’re certainly deserving of one,” said coach Randy Hedrick.

Webster’s first contest of the season was a grueling triple-overtime win, and their second win over Grantsburg which happened just two short weeks ago, propelled the Tigers to a share of the conference title – something that hasn’t happened for the school in eight years. But their third game against Grantsburg was equally important, and one that Hedrick knew wouldn’t be easy.

“I knew that they (Grantsburg) were The Webster boys team hoist up their second consecutive regional championship plaque. – Photos by John Reed

Grantsburg’s Jason Jensen goes up for a shot against Webster’s A.J. Holmquist and Brian Thill during Saturday’s game in Amery.

going to come to play, and I was hoping our kids were ready to play,” Hedrick said.

And play they did. The game was tied after the first period, but the Tigers managed to stretch their lead to five at the half. A key element in the lead was the presence of senior Nick Wolfe, who filled in nicely for starting point guard Peter Walsh. The senior point guard suffered a broken hand in the team’s previous win over Unity, and sat out the entire game against Grantsburg Saturday night.

“I thought Nick (Wolfe) stepped up,” Hedrick said. “He had four points down a stretch where we realNick Wolfe

ly needed some buckets.” Those four crucial points came in the second quarter, and helped Webster gain a fivepoint edge at halftime.

Hedrick said that while Walsh was out the entire game against Grantsburg, he’s since gotten a cast and is hopeful Walsh will be playing this Friday night against Hurley.

“Hopefully he’ll be able to play this Friday,” Hedrick said.

In the second half, Hedrick said the Tigers stretched their lead to at least 10 points at one time, but Grantsburg mounted a comeback. In the third, the Pirates shot well from the line shooting seven of nine free throws. The Pirates rallied back to within three points, according to Hedrick, but the Tigers clicked on both offensively and defensively.

See Webster/page 28 Team Grantsburg Webster

1 2 3 4 F 7 10 15 13 45 7 15 17 19 58 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Kevin Johnson 0 1 0/0 2 3 Connar Goetz 1 1 2/2 0 7 Ben Larson 2 0 2/4 5 6 Shawn Pavlik 2 0 0/0 1 4 Tyler Myers 2 1 3/5 1 10 Jason Jensen 2 0 4/6 3 8 Zach Corbin 1 0 0/0 0 2 Trent Bonneville 2 0 1/4 3 5 Totals 12 3 12/21 15 45 Webster Brian Gibbs Nick Wolfe A.J. Holmquist Dylan Geske Brian Thill Adam Baum Totals

2s 3 2 5 0 10 2 22

3s FTM/A F 1 3/4 2 0 0/0 1 0 1/1 3 1 0/0 3 0 4/6 2 0 1/2 4 2 9/13 15

TP 12 4 11 3 24 4 58

Dragon re extinguished by Drummond Drummond 48, Siren 40

by Brenda Sommerfeld WEBSTER – The Siren Dragons had won against the Drummond Lumberjacks on Jan. 10, 57-55. So it was uncertain which team was going to win the regional championship when these two met up for their second match in Webster on Saturday, Feb. 23.

It ended with the Jacks holding their newly acquired plaque up and the Siren team walking away with much emotion shown on their faces.

“I have nothing but good things to say about the way our kids competed,” coach Rick Anderson said. “They gave it everything they had.”

The game started out with intensity.

Drummond accomplished possession of the jump ball and made a shot on their net, but couldn’t sink one. Siren then ran it back with the Lumberjack crowd shouting “pass, dribble, shot,” announcing every step they made.

Neither team was able to get a shot in, until two minutes had run down on the clock, and Drummond scored the first two with a field goal. There were a lot of shots attempted, but not many shots for either team went in, which kept the game close, ending the first half with Siren down by one, 17-16.

“We did not shoot the ball very well, and missed some easy baskets down the stretch which would have made a real

The Dragon team gave it their all.

Even as Jordan Potvin fell, he still was shooting the ball. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld difference,” Anderson explained.

Both teams scored 13 points during the third quarter, which kept the Dragons trailing by one.

The fourth quarter involved a lot of crowd interaction. Both sides stood up when they liked a referee’s call… and when they didn’t.

Siren started out the scoring rally in

the fourth. Charlie Brown put one in from the field to pull them ahead by one. Adam Daniels was hanging down by the Dragon hoop when Siren received a defensive rebound and sent the ball sailing to Daniels, who in return put up a layup for two more.

Drummond, however, answered back with two 3-pointers to chop their way back up, 36-33.

Brennen Moose and Brown each put up the next two for another one-point lead, 37-36. The Dragons then had foul after foul, allowing the Jacks into bonus free throws, giving them most of their final points.

Thad Baasch scored his three points in the last 20 seconds to end the game, Drummond up 48-40.

“The game was hard fought all the way to the end,” Anderson stated. “We had some leads as did they, unfortunately for us their biggest lead was at the end of the game.”

Moose and Brown were the leading scorers for the Siren team. Brown scored five field goals and three of six free throws for 13 points. Moose put up four field goals and four of four free throws to earn 12 points.

Daniels added nine points and Baasch and Jordan Potvin each had one 3pointer.

Team Siren Drummond

1 2 3 4 F 11 5 13 11 40 8 9 13 18 48 Individual Statistics Siren 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Jesse Hinz 0 0 0/0 2 0 Christian Hall 0 0 0/0 1 0 Brennen Moose 4 0 4/4 1 12 Adam Daniels 3 1 0/0 3 9 Thad Baasch 0 1 0/0 0 3 Jordan Potvin 0 1 0/0 1 3 Travis Freese 0 0 0/0 2 0 Vince Nasman 0 0 0/0 3 0 Charlie Brown 5 0 3/6 5 13 Totals 12 3 7/10 18 40 Drummond Brandon Friermood Cole DeChant Greg Jarecki Paul Walters Corey Sackmann Paul Walters Doug Wickingson Nathan Rondeau Totals

2s 0 1 3 1 1 2 1 4 13

3s FTM/A F TP 0 0/0 1 0 1 0/2 1 5 0 3/6 1 9 0 1/3 1 3 3 2/3 0 13 0 0/0 2 4 1 0/1 2 5 0 1/4 3 9 5 7/19 11 48

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Gymnasts season ends in Galesville Seniors have final high school meet

by Brenda Sommerfeld GALESVILLE – At the beginning of the season, Grantsburg gymnastics coach, Kathy Lund, explained that the sectional competition had been realigned. This meant the gymnasts would go up against schools they have never seen before, with hopes of making it to state.

“I knew going into this meet that we were up against powerful teams that have been going to state for years,” Lund said.

The Pirates came in fourth again this year, but it was not enough for the team to go to the state competition. They needed to be one of the top two teams, or individually, they had to place in the top five. Neither of these happened for the Grantsburg nor the St. Croix Falls gymnastic teams this year.

“The intensity of the gym was overwhelming,” Lund explained about the Gale Ettrick Trempealeau High School.

“Fans were reminded before the meet even started that noisemakers and cow bells were not allowed. Floor music had to be played at full blast in order to hear the music over the screams of excitement over individual scores being flashed.”

The Pirates scored a total of 120.95 for their fourth place and the Saints put up

Grantsburg senior Katty Peterson was strong placer on both bars and vault this season.

Pirate senior Megan Branstad performed on beam and floor during her last year as a high school gymnast.– File photos by Brenda Sommerfeld 98.25 for eighth place of eight schools.

Grantsburg’s first event was the one they usually score the lowest on, the uneven bars. It was not their lowest scoring event on Friday, Feb. 22.

“We had solid good routines,” Lund said.

Alyssa Ryan put out the best performance on the bars for the Pirate team, scoring 7.925 and placing 13th. Michelle Lund was right there with her, in 14th place, putting out 7.70. Nineteenthplace was taken by Katty Peterson with a 6.975. Jessika Ilgen came in right behind Peterson, getting 20th with a 6.80 score. Maarja Anderson scored 6.025 to get 24th.

The Saints team scored a total of 20.475 on the bars event. They had five competitors perform on each apparatus during this meet. Katie Meyer scored highest on bars with 6.275 for 22nd overall. Kayla Cross received a 5.025, Danae Meyer got a 5.0, Miranda Wilson 4.175 and Priscilla Castorena pulled off a 3.40.

The balance beam was the event Grantsburg struggled with during this competition, only scoring 26.075.

Megan Branstad was the only one to accomplish a no fall. She received 7.325 and was the only one above 20th place with 15th.

All-around gymnast Lund scored a 6.675 and Anderson was five-tenths behind her when she established a 6.625. Emily Cole put up a 5.450 and Ryan got 5.125.

St. Croix Falls had Cross score a 6.05,

Grantsburg senior Alyssa Ryan competed on all four events in every meet that they attended.

Wilson made a 5.675, and Alicia Chelberg got a 4.450. Katie Meyer received 4.175 and Shelly Wood a 3.1.

The Grantsburg’s highest scoring event was their favorite, floor. All five of the gymnasts scored in the eights, putting them all in the top 20 individual scores.

Ryan was on top of her team making 12th place with an 8.525 and Lund and Branstad tied for 14th place with scores of 8.2. Cole and Anderson were next in line, Cole with 16th from an 8.1 and Anderson 17th with an 8.05.

The Saints had three of the five girls competing score in the sevens and the other two in the five range.

Katie Meyer was the highest reaching 7.775. Cross was not too far behind with a 7.625 and Danae Meyer knocked out a 7.0. Wilson and Kanessa Raymond scored in the fives. Wilson had 5.4 and Raymond got a 5.1.

Vault was a good event for both teams, with the lowest score being a 6.9

by Raymond from St. Croix Falls.

The Grantsburg gymnasts in vault were Ilgen with an 8.475 and Anderson with a 8.350. Lund scored a 7.825, and Ryan and Peterson got 7.8 each.

St. Croix Falls scores were Katie Meyer with a 7.75, Wilson a 7.425, Danae Meyer put up a 7.35 and Cross made a 7.1.

The all-around gymnasts for Grantsburg turned out good scores with Lund taking 11th place, Ryan 14th and Anderson 15th.

St. Croix Falls had three all-around competitors also. Katie Meyer received 20th place, Cross 21st and Wilson 28th.

The season came to an end for this year for both teams, but they both will come back next year with experienced Team River Falls Holmen G/M/C Grantsburg Onalaska Menomonie Arcadia St. Croix Falls

Grantsburg sophomore Michelle Lund will be the only all-around gymnast left on the team for next season. – Photo submitted

St. Croix Falls freshman Alicia Chelberg competed for her first year on only balance beam.

Vault/Place 35.400/1st 35.125/2nd 33.775/3rd 32.450/4th 31.200/6th 30.625/7th 31.625/5th 29.625/8th

Bars/Place 35.350/1st 33.800/2nd 33.675/3rd 29.400/4th 25.025/5th 24.075/6th 19.875/8th 20.475/7th

senior Maarja Grantsburg Anderson was also one of the three all-around competitors for their gymnastics team this year.

St. Croix Falls Miranda Wilson was the only senior to compete in the sectional competition for the Saints. She competed as an allaround athlete in Galesville.

Beam/Place 34.450/2nd 34.900/1st 33.775/3rd 26.075/6th 29.625/4th 27.475/5th 24.075/7th 20.350/8th

Floor/Place All Around/Place Place 36.725/2nd 141.925 1st 35.200/3rd 139.025 2nd 37.225/1st 138.450 3rd 33.025/4th 120.950 4th 30.875/5th 116.725 5th 29.925/6th 112.100 6th 27.925/7th 103.500 7th 27.800/8th 98.250 8th

Grantsburg Individual Scores Michelle Lund 7.825/19th Alyssa Ryan 7.800/20th tie Maarja Anderson 8.350/10th tie Jessika Ilgen 8.475/8th tie Katty Peterson 7.800/20th tie Emily Cole Megan Branstad -

7.700/14th 7.925/13th 6.025/24th 6.800/20th 6.975/19th -

6.675/22nd tie 5.125/31st 6.625/23rd 5.450/30th 7.325/15th

8.200/14th tie 8.525/12th 8.050/17th 8.100/16th 8.200/14th tie

30.400/11th 29.375/14th 29.050/15th -

St. Croix Falls Individual Scores Katie Meyer 7.750/21st Kayla Cross 7.100/28th Miranda Wilson 7.425/23rd Danae Meyer 7.350/25th tie Kanessa Raymond 6.900/30th Priscilla Castorena Alicia Chelberg Shelly Wood -

6.275/22nd 5.025/28th tie 4.175/31st tie 5.000/29th 3.400/32nd -

4.175/34th 6.050/24th 5.675/27th 4.450/32nd 3.100/36th

7.775/20th 7.625/22nd tie 5.400/33rd 7.000/28th tie 5.100/34th -

25.975/20th 25.800/21st 22.675/28th -

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Eagles land two in top six Alex Peper loses first match by just one point

by Marty Seeger MADISON – The Eagles trip to the state wrestling tournament last weekend was a success. Two of the three wrestlers placed in the top six, including Dustin McKinney (125), who took fourth and Ben Hendricks who took fifth. Although Alex Peper lost in the first round and was unable to move further in his bracket, coach Mark Ferguson believes Peper is still one of the top five in the state.

“We were one second away from winning that match,” Ferguson said on Peper’s loss.

Peper had Pacelli’s Dylan Suchocki on his back with seconds winding down, yet Peper was just a few seconds shy of

Unity senior Alex Peper had a memorable career with his trip to state.

Unity's Dustin McKinney will be back next season to get another shot at the state title. – Photos by Megan Hendricks receiving the back points he could have had, and lost by just one point. In Suchocki’s next two matches he defeated his opponents 14-0 and 10-1 respectively, and took a third-place finish at state overall.

“They were pretty equal caliber wrestlers, and it was tough to start off with that kid,” Ferguson said. But despite all of that, Ferguson is pleased with Peper’s accomplishments. Peper has had a storied career despite injury.

He broke his arm his freshman year, wrestled as a sophomore yet suffered a knee injury last season. This year he wrestled injury free and made his first career trip to state as a senior and finished with a 34-15 record.

Hendricks also had a nice ending to his career with fifth place and a 42-15 record. He won his first match by 7-5 decision to Mike McKinley of Mineral

Point. His other two wins came over Mike Geier of Brookwood, 10-1 and then won the fifth-place match by 5-2 decision over Ryan Chervenka of Kewaunee. His only two losses in the tournament came to the state runner-up and the third-place finisher.

“He put a nice finish on the end of a solid career,” Ferguson said.

McKinney ended up with the best finish of the three that went to state, and although McKinney and the coaching staff were shooting for a state championship, he still has two more years to improve.

“The nice thing is that I know where we went wrong,” Ferguson said.

McKinney won his first match in a 9-7 decision over Shane Wotacheck of Kewaunee, but lost by a 7-4 decision in the semifinals to Trevor Dyreson of Deerfield. He won by pin over Tony

Unity senior Ben Hendricks ended his career on a high note.

Schneider of Random Lake in 4:48 before falling to Myles Magee of Coleman in the third-place match in a 42 decision. McKinney ended his season with a 45-6 record.

“What we’ve got to work on over the next year is really tightening up what he does, and cutting out some of the flaws so there’s no way anyone could stop him,” Ferguson said.

It will certainly be another exciting couple of years for McKinney, and a good number of other Unity wrestlers that will be eying the state tournament next year.

Raygor gets fth in tough bracket Rikkola suffers tough loss in first round

by Marty Seeger MADISON – St. Croix Falls wrestlers Joe Raygor (152) and Justin Rikkola (112) each had tough days at the state wrestling tournament in Madison last weekend.

Raygor took fifth place in what coach Dan Clark thought of as one of the toughest brackets he’s seen in his 14 years of coaching and being at the state tournament. That included any division, and any weight class.

“The top six kids there were all legitimate state champions, I mean they were good enough to be state champions,” said Clark Raygor won his first match over Trent Smits of Gillet/Suring in a 9-3 decision.

He lost the following two matches by narrow margins, with his first loss coming to the runner-up in a 8-5 decision, to Jordan Schulte of Mosinee. Raygor was taken down three times in the match, but Clark noted that he hadn’t been taken down once all year long. He lost his third close match in a 1-0 decision to Logan Einerson (40-2) of Lodi.

Raygor won his final third-place

St. Croix Falls sophomore Joe Raygor drew a tough bracket at the state tournament, but there's no doubt he'll be back for another try next season. – Photo courtesy of Marie Raygor match of the tournament to Bloomer’s Andy Marquardt in a 3-1 overtime win.

Marquardt had been ranked third in the state all year long.

“Joe wrestled very very well, but he just ran into a tough weight class,”

Clark said. As a sophomore, Raygor finished his season with a 46-6 record, and will be back again next year for another shot at the title.

For Rikkola, his trip to the state tournament probably didn’t last as long as

he had hoped, but the senior, who originates from Grantsburg, wrestled two quality years with the Saints and posted an 80-9 record.

“He had a very nice career with us and it Justin Rikkola was very good for us too that he decided to come over here,” Clark said. Rikkola spent his first two years with the Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg team.

Rikkola lost his first match of the tournament in a heartbreaker to Chris Sokol of Lodi in a 6-5 decision. Rikkola got out to a 5-0 lead but Sokol inched his way back, and took a 6-5 lead after the second period. Then at the end of the third period Clark said Rikkola escaped, but the referee didn’t make the call. Clark isn’t sure if he mixed up the wrestlers uniforms or what, but Rikkola lost the match by one.

Rikkola lost in the consolation round 6-0 to Nathan Brown of Sheboygan Falls in a 6-0 decision.

“I still think he did a nice job and I’m proud of what he did,” said Clark.

LFG’s Justin Eley places sixth at state Five matches make for long weekend

by Marty Seeger MADISON – Luck senior Justin Eley (119) ended a solid season at the state tournament with a 30-16 record and a sixth-place finish at the tournament.

Eley had to work through five matches in Madison over the course of three days, and came out with two wins. His first match came with a win over Ty Thronson of Edgerton in a 5-3 decision.

In the quarterfinals, Eley lost to Charlie Wanty (41-3) of Waupaca in a close 4-2 decision.

Then in the first round of the consola-

tion match, Eley took his second win of the tournament over Jake Zess of East Troy in a major 9-0 decisioin. Zess posted a 41-5 record entering the tournament. Eley lost his next match to Ryan Seidler of Adams-Friendship 6-0, and then lost to nemesis Kaleb Stevens of Barron in the fifth-place match by a pin.

Justin Eley

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Dragons leave South Shore blazing Three score 56 of 63 points Siren 63, South Shore 57

by Brenda Sommerfeld SOUTH SHORE – The Siren Dragon boys went to South Shore not knowing what to expect and left it winning their second round in the regional tournament, 63-57.

“This was a very big win for our program and all the credit should go to the kids who accomplished it,” coach Rick Anderson said.

The kids who accomplished the scoring for the Dragon team were Adam Daniels, Brennen Moose and Charlie Brown.

Daniels ended the night with 25 points, Brown had 17 and Moose had 14.

Daniels hit two threes and 1-2 from the line, while Brown got two field goals and Moose hit two of the four free throws he attempted. This was just in the first quarter to keep them at 13, closely behind South Shore’s 14 points.

The second period is where things took off for Siren with those three guys adding up more shots. Jesse Hinze also hit a nice 3-pointer to put them up to 36 points going into the half, while keeping the higher ranked Cardinals to 28.

“They played tough defense, passed the ball well on offense and showed real grit and heart throughout the game,” Anderson commented of his team.

The defense of the Dragons held South Shore to 14 or 15 points only in each quarter.

The third was the time for the Cardinal’s 15, while Siren managed to get 10 on the board from the three shooters of the night. Daniels had two, Moose hit 2-2 free ones and Brown contributed the other six points. This scoring kept Siren up 46-43 at the buzzer ending the third quarter.

Nine of the Dragon’s 17 points in the fourth were from free throws. The rest were in the field from the three main shooting men.

Vince Nasman did help by putting up two of two free throws and one from the

Siren’s mascott was in Webster during the game that Siren played there on Saturday.

Team Siren South Shore

Brennen Moose has been a lead scorer in the playoff games that Siren has played. – File photos by Brenda Sommerfeld field for his four points.

Fouls were called on both teams, but the Dragons got more shots from the line because of the Cardinals, than the other way around.

Free throws add up if your team puts them in. Siren got 32 chances at the lines and made 59 percent with 19 of them

Travis Freese puts the ball up toward the basket as Adam Daniels waits to see if he needs to rebound during their game against Drummond. going right in the net.

“South Shore has some very good shooters, and they made several runs at us during the game,” Anderson explained. “Our kids stood up and fought back to take a very hard-fought victory.”

1 2 3 4 F 13 23 10 17 63 14 14 15 14 57 Individual Statistics Siren 2s 3s FTM/A F TP 0 1 0/0 1 3 Jesse Hinze 2 0 10/14 1 14 Brennen Moose Adam Daniels 5 3 6/9 3 25 0 0 0/0 1 0 Jordan Potvin Travis Freese 0 0 0/2 3 0 1 0 2/2 5 4 Vince Nasman Charlie Brown 8 0 1/5 3 17 Totals 16 4 19/32 17 63 South Shore Mitch Ogren Nigel Highlands John Delimat Michael Kenda Brandon Fickbohm Johnathon Ramirez Jacob Tuura Jacob Follis Josh Hudachek Totals

2s 1 1 0 3 3 0 0 3 6 17

3s FTM/A F 1 0/0 4 0 0/0 1 1 0/0 1 3 0/0 3 0 0/2 1 0 0/2 4 1 3/3 2 0 0/0 2 0 2/3 3 6 5/10 21

TP 5 2 3 15 6 0 6 6 14 57

Cards breeze by Lakers night. Richert piled on 13 points for the Cards and led with five assists.

The Cardinals held Turtle Lake to 18 points in the second half, and as a team, they shot six of 10 from the line. Luck’s best quarter came in the fourth as they scored 21 points. Their win over Turtle Lake propelled the Cardinals to their second regional championship appearance in three years.

Luck defense proves tough over Turtle Lake Luck 59, Turtle Lake 33

by Marty Seeger LUCK – The Luck boys earned an easy win over Turtle Lake last Thursday in the second round of the Division 4 regional tournament. Luck’s defense, according to coach Rick Giller, made the difference. He said that the Cardinals have been able to hold opponents to 20 points or less in 14 of the past 16 quarters. In their win over Turtle Lake, the Cards held the team to just 15 points in the first half.

“We had to come out and defend the perimeter, and our guards did a fantastic job of closing out and not letting Turtle Lake get looks at the basket,” Giller said.

Cody Richert had five steals on the night, and Carson Giller had four, with Mitchell Klatt helping out with two steals. Tyler Petersen led the team with 14 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks, and Brennan Olson picked up eight boards and added 12 points on the

Team Luck Turtle Lake

1 2 3 4 13 14 11 21 8 7 6 12 Individual Statistics Luck 2s 3s FTM/A Mitchell Klatt 3 0 2/2 Cody Richert 5 1 0/0 Harry Severson-Dickinson 0 1 0/0 Cole Mortel 1 0 0/0 Tyler Petersen 6 0 2/4 Brennan Olson 5 0 2/4 Carson Giller 2 1 0/0 Totals 22 3 6/10

Brennan Olson shoots one from the free-throw line against Turtle Lake. – Photos by Sue Tolan

Luck’s Cody Richert draws a foul from a Laker during the game Thursday night.

Turtle Lake Kyle Wick Nathan Roemhild Nick Knight Aaron Lindsley R. Molls Tim Flanagan J. Varone David Sollman Totals

2s 2 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 9

F 59 33 F TP 1 8 4 13 1 3 0 2 2 14 0 12 1 7 9 59

3s FTM/A F TP 0 5/7 3 9 0 0/0 0 2 0 0/0 3 0 0 0/0 1 0 3 0/0 1 9 0 0/0 3 4 0 0/0 0 4 0 1/4 3 5 3 6/11 14 33

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Pirates topple Hilltoppers Goetz steal, fourth-quarter free throws seal it Grantsburg 58, Glenwood City 51

by Marty Seeger GRANTSBURG – The Pirates controlled much of the game against the Hilltoppers on Thursday night, which advanced them into the regional finals game against Webster the following Saturday.

“We turned the ball over a little more than I would like and made a few other little mistakes, but all in all it was a good effort,” said Pirates coach Danny Judd.

Both teams traded buckets early in the first quarter and Grantsburg took a 1512 lead after the first quarter. Tyler Myers had the hot hand for the Pirates in the first half with 13 and Trent Bonneville was solid inside with nine points. Bonneville ended the first half with a long 3-pointer at the buzzer to give the Pirates a 33-24 lead.

Jason Jensen and Ben Larson combined for two points to start the second half, and the score held at around 37-31 for much of the quarter. Myers caught the Hilltoppers off guard with an inbound pass to Kevin Johnson to give the Pirates a 40-31 lead with just under two minutes to go, but the Hilltoppers managed to get two 3-pointers just before the end of the third quarter. One with just 15 seconds to go, and the other as the buzzer sounded. But in the end, Grantsburg proved that their aggressive defense and free-throw shooting would pay off in the end.

“Defense and free throws win tourna-

Grantsburg's Trent Bonneville comes down with a key rebound in last Thursday's game against Glenwood City. - Photos by Marty Seeger ment games, and that’s what paid off for us,” said Judd.

While the Hilltoppers struggled to get their free throws to fall, the Pirates shot 19 of 23 from the line, but more importantly shot 10 for 10 in the fourth quarter.

Grantsburg scored just nine points in the third quarter, but added 18 in the third. Much of that was due in part to the game Bonneville had. The senior had 19 points and his second doubledouble of the week.

“He did a really nice job, and he’s gotta play well for us in order to be successful…he definitely stood out for us,” said Judd.

While just about every Grantsburg player got points on the board, one play helped to turn things around as Glenwood City inched its way back into the game. The Hilltoppers pulled to within one with just over a minute to go, but Connar Goetz had a huge steal to go coast to coast for two points, giving the Pirates a more comfortable lead,

Freshman Connar Goetz fights through a Glenwood City defender. and force the Hilltoppers to foul.

“That big steal and then the finish on the other end was nice,” said Judd on the Goetz steal.

Bonneville and Jensen hit the remaining four free throws of the game to move the Pirates toward the regional championship against Webster.

Tigers pluck Eagles from playoffs Unity holds tight in first half Webster 46, Unity 28

by Brenda Sommerfeld WEBSTER – During a very physical and low-scoring game, the Webster Tigers plucked the Eagle boys out of the regional champion running on Thursday, Feb. 21 in their home gym.

“It wasn’t pretty, but we won,” coach Randy Hedrick said. “I expected more.”

By halftime the score was 19-15 in Webster’s favor. Unity didn’t give the points up easily with their in-your-face defense which caused many fouls, and resulted in free throw points for the Tiger team.

“I thought we did a good job defensively, especially in the first half,” Unity coach Shaun Fisher stated.

Team Unity Webster Unity Sam Bengston Seth McKenzie Chad Strilzuk Justin Bader Ryan Flaherty Eric Goulet Brady Flaherty Lance Peper Totals Webster Peter Walsh Brian Gibbs AJ Holmquist Dylan Geske Brian Thill Nolan Kriegle Totals

1 2 3 4 F 8 7 4 9 28 10 9 14 13 46 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A F TP 2 0 0/0 2 4 0 0 0/0 1 0 1 0 0/0 5 2 4 0 0/0 1 8 2 0 2/8 3 6 1 0 0/0 3 2 2 0 0/1 1 4 1 0 0/0 2 2 13 0 2/9 18 28 2s 1 5 2 1 8 1 18

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 2 0 3/6 2 0 2/4 2 0 1/5 2 0 4/6 2 0 0/0 2 0 10/21 12

TP 2 13 6 3 20 2 46

Unity's Justin Bader collides with Webster senior Brian Gibbs under the basket. - Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld Neither team put up even as many as 15 points in one quarter. The highest number of total points scored in a single eight minutes was 14 by Webster in the third. Unity wasn’t able to get over 10 during any of the four quarters.

Thirty seconds into the second quarter, Brian Thill, senior and big scorer for the Webster team, went to the floor holding his ankle. It was unsure what would happen if he didn’t go back in.

One minute later, the reliable Thill was back in the game. You couldn’t tell he was hurt as he powered in under the basket through those Eagle defensemen, and pounded in the points once again.

He scored 20 points in the game.

“He’s a tough kid,” Hedrick commented. “I think he knows it was his last home game there, so he played through it.”

After the halftime break, Webster got their defense stepped up and held the Unity team to four points in the third, while they managed 14. This widened the gap up 33-19 for the Tiger team.

“We had some mental breakdowns in the third quarter, which allowed them to have some easy scores and pull out by 10 or 12,” Fisher explained. “We also had a tough time converting or executing on offense, so then they could sit on the ball.”

Webster sitting on the ball forced Unity to go to a man-to-man defense, which wore them down.

“They (Webster) are a very disciplined team that has great tournament experience,” Fisher stated. “They represent our conference well.”

Eagle senior Ryan Flaherty was put on the line three times, from shot attempts, in the final eight minutes. He nailed one of the six to help his team reach the seven points scored, while Webster scored 13 more to move on in the tournament.

Brian Gibbs scored 13 points for the Tigers and A.J. Holmquist put up six.

The Eagles had Justin Bader score eight, Flaherty added six, and Sam Bengston and Brady Flaherty each con-

Webster's Kriegel drives past Unity's Brady Flaherty last Thursday evening. tributed four.

“I just want to acknowledge and thank the Eagle athletes for working very hard this season,” Fisher said after their final game. “They have made my first year as coach at Unity very significant and memorable. We have some work to do this offseason to improve and get to where we need to be, but I look forward to the challenge and many more seasons here at Unity.”

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Siren on the top of West Lakeland Young Dragon team takes title home alone Siren 43, Unity 18

by Brenda Sommerfeld SIREN – After sharing the conference title with Grantsburg last year, the Siren girls got to take it home all to themselves this year. The final game securing their title was against Unity on Friday, Feb. 22. They won it 43-18.

“I’m very happy for my girls,” Siren coach Jon Ruud explained after the girls cut down their home gym net as memorabilia. “I think the one thing that makes this team neat is that we continued to get better all year long.”

The Dragons started this season a young team that no one was sure of and ended it with a title.

“I knew that going into the season we were going to be really young to start and I knew that we’d have to go through some growing pains,” Ruud explained.

These new and some experienced Siren players worked hard throughout the summer. They ended their conference season with an overall record of 182 to start off the playoff tournaments.

“We battled a little bump in the road early January,” Ruud stated. “We had two loses in a row.”

“It seems like we’re very resilient.

There have been nights here we’ve been in foul trouble and there’s been nights where we’ve been sick. It seems somebody always rises to the challenge.”

Ruud explained that the road wasn’t easy getting to the top with many teams

Grantsburg's Sarah Wald comes down with a rebound against Frederic. - Photo by Marty Seeger

The Siren girls earned their way to the top of the conference with an 11-1 conference record. - Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld playing his team very tough.

“Unity tonight played us very tough, especially that first half,” Ruud said.

The Eagle team held the Dragons to 14 points in the first half, while they managed to score 10 for themselves. Siren scored only four points during the second quarter.

“We played a very good first half,” Unity coach Chuck Holicky agreed. “We played great man-to-man defense and had few turnovers. Holding a great scoring team like Siren to 14 points in a half is quite an accomplishment.”

The second half was a different story for the Eagles, with two of their starters receiving a fourth fouls each right away and having to sit out. Siren came back to score 29 points and Unity getting in eight points.

“To Siren’s credit, they smelled blood and took advantage of the situation,” Holicky described. “They turned up the pressure and blew the game open. We just couldn’t play with out two of our starters for seven minutes, but we made a good run when we were at full strength.”

Siren’s Jennifer Mitchell, who is usually more of a defenseman than a scorer, showed the other side against Unity.

Mitchell put up 11 points for her team, while Carley Emery had 18, Janey Emery 10 and Lynette Renberg four.

Unity had Andrea Thompson with seven and Brianna Schmid and Becca Milligan with four. Tina Edgell added two and Stephanie Kothlow got one.

“I think we’ve done a nice job of continuing to get better every week,” Ruud stated. “I think we’re playing good basketball going into the tournament. I’m really excited.”

Frederic 52, Grantsburg 46 FREDERIC – It was definitely a battle

Vanessa Kleiss jockeys for position against Melanie Chenal of Frederic. Photo by Marty Seeger

last week in Frederic as the Vikings edged their way past the Pirates for a solid 17-3 overall regular season record and 10-2 conference record. The Vikings secured a solid second-place conference finish before heading into the playoffs as a No. 2 seed.

Becca Anderson started the game off with a long 3-pointer, and added another later in the quarter. But Pirates Alison McKinley and Laura Skifstad made their presence known under the basket and helped Grantsburg keep it close.

The Vikings held a slim 16-13 lead after the first quarter.

Then in the second quarter, Grantsburg battled back again to eventually tie the game at 25 with just over two minutes remaining in the half.

Frederic guard Kelly Wondra sunk four free throws late in the first half to keep the Vikings on top at halftime by three points. In the end, it would turn out to be the Vikings quality free-throw shooting that would save the night, as well as defense for both teams.

The Pirates held the Vikings to just four points in the third quarter, yet Grantsburg only added seven to the board, but it was good enough for a tie game going into the fourth quarter.

While both teams traded baskets for much of the quarter, it turned out to be Frederic’s free-throw shooting that won it in the end.

The Vikings shot 23 of 33 attempts from the charity stripe in the game, and 11 of 18 in the fourth quarter alone.

Anderson was perfect in her final six attempts, which helped to seal the Viking win. She also led in scoring with 22 points.

Erin Schmidt had another great game on the boards with 10, and added seven points. Wondra produced 10 points for Frederic.

For the Pirates it was Skifstad who led with 13 points. Megan Finch had nine points for the team and Stephanie Jensen had eight. – Marty Seeger Webster 52, Luck 47 OT WEBSTER – After coming off an overtime win against Grantsburg, Webster revenged their loss to Luck earlier this season. The game on Friday, Feb. 22, also went into overtime when the Tigers pulled off another victory, 52-47, for their last conference game of the season.

“Beth Baer took the last game of the season for the Webster Tigers,” Luck coach Marty Messar stated. “Her six points in overtime and 21 points for the game were absolutely the difference in the game.”

“Beth Baer has come up huge for us in the last two overtime victories,” Webster coach Greg Widiker explained.

“She scored 50 points and had 31

Kelley Wampfler cuts down the net after the Dragons win.

Team Unity Siren

1 2 3 4 F 4 6 4 4 18 10 4 21 8 43 Individual Statistics Unity 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Tina Edgell 1 0 0/0 1 2 Cailin Turner 0 0 0/2 1 0 Brianna Schmid 2 0 0/0 0 4 Becca Milligan 2 0 0/4 5 4 Stephanie Kothlow 0 0 1/2 1 1 Elizabeth Ebensperger 0 0 0/0 1 0 Andrea Thompson 2 1 0/2 5 7 Totals 7 1 1/10 14 18 Siren Haily Mulroy Jennifer Mitchell Courtney Daniels Kelly Wampfler Carley Emery Janey Emery Lynette Renberg Ashley Guevara Totals

2s 0 5 0 0 7 3 1 0 16

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 5 0 1/3 2 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 1 0 4/4 3 0 4/6 3 0 2/2 0 0 0/0 1 0 11/15 17

TP 0 11 0 0 18 10 4 0 43

Frederic's Becca Anderson shoots one of six free throws against Grantsburg in the fourth quarter. Photo by Marty Seeger rebounds in the last two games. It’s the kind of consistency we need going into the tournament.”

Baer’s 21 points during this game were spread out throughout the entire night. Eight were field goals she nailed and five were free throws she was allowed.

Webster started off the game against

See Friday girls/ next page Team Grantsburg Frederic

1 2 3 4 F 13 13 7 13 46 16 13 4 19 52 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Abbey Vaksdal 3 0 0/2 2 6 Sarah Wald 0 0 0/0 3 0 Kortney Morrin 2 0 1/2 3 5 Megan Finch 1 0 7/8 5 9 Stephanie Jensen 3 0 2/2 3 8 Vanessa Kleiss 0 0 1/2 2 1 Alison McKinley 2 0 0/0 3 4 Gretchen Hedlund 0 0 0/2 0 0 Laura Skifstad 6 0 1/2 5 13 Totals 17 0 12/20 26 46 Frederic Ana Miller Megan Anderson Kelly Wondra Erin Schmidt Melanie Chenal Becca Anderson Michelle Owens Lisa Chelmo Anna Tesch Totals

2s 0 1 1 2 3 3 0 0 0 10

3s FTM/A F 1 2/2 2 0 0/0 3 0 8/12 2 0 3/6 4 0 0/1 2 2 10/12 1 0 0/0 1 0 0/0 1 0 0/0 1 3 23/33 17

TP 5 2 10 7 6 22 0 0 0 52

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

2007-08 Division 3 Girls Basketball Playoffs

2007-08 Division 4 Girls Basketball Playoffs

S E C TI O N A L # 1 • G a m e t i m e s a r e a t 7 p . m . u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e n o t e d . • C h e c k f o r u p d a t e d t i m e s .

R e gio n al s Se ct io nals Tu e s . , F e b . 2 6 T h u rs . , F e b . 2 8 Sa t., Ma rc h 1 Th u r s . , M a r c h 6 S a t . , M a r ch 8

S E C T I O N A L # 1 • G a m e t i m e s a r e a t 7 p . m . u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e n o t e d . • C h e c k f or u p d a t e d t i m e s .

R e gio n al s S e ct i o n a l s Tu e s . , Fe b . 2 6 T h u rs . , F e b . 2 8 S a t . , M a rc h 1 Th u r s . , M a r c h 6 S a t. , M a r c h 8 Northwood +#1-

WIAA State Tournament March 13 - Semi-finals Sectional #1 vs. Sectional #3 approx. 10:30 a.m.

Colfax +#1@ C o lf ax

Grantsburg +#5@ W e bst e r Webster +#4-

Webster +39-38-

Glenwood City +47-27-

@ S ol on S p r i n g s Shell Lake +#6-

@ Bo y c e v i l l e

@ S ir e n Siren +#2-

@ H ay war d

@ W a s h b u rn Washburn +#4-

Blommer +#7@ Pa r k F a l l s Park Falls +#2-

Ladysmith +66-38-

@ F la mbe a u Mercer +#8-

@ L ad y smit h

Mellen +#5-

Washburn +63-36-

@ R i b L a ke Rib Lake +#4-

@Ric e La ke Hurley +63-49-

@ B i rc h w o o d Butternut/Glidden +#6-

@ P a rk F a l l s

Winter +#7-

Park Falls +48-32-

@ Pr e n t i c e Prentice +#2@ A l t oo n a

@ Re g i s

St. Croix Falls +#5-

Spring Valley +54-49-

@ Pr a i r i e F a rm Prairie Farm +#4-

@ H u d s on

@ C l ear L ak e Bruce +#6-

@ P r e s c ot t

Turtle Lake +#7@ C h i p p e w a Fa l l s

Osseo-Fairchild +#1-

Stanley-Boyd +#5@ Fa l l C r e e k Fall Creek +#4-

McDonell Central +#7@ M on d o vi Mondovi +#2-

@ S i re n Siren +87-30@ S po o n e r Flambeau +77-17@ F lam be au Mellen +48-43@ L a ke l a n d 1: 3 0 p . m .

Birchwood +52-49@ P r e n ti c e Prentice +80-31-

@ S po o n e r

@ C l a yt o n Prairie Farm +57-53-

@ F r e de r ic Frederic +#2-

@Cu mber land 1 :3 0 p . m .

Clear Lake +62-37@ F re d e ri c Frederic +52-37-

@ S po o n e r

Thorp +#1Osseo-Fairchild +86-17-

@ T h o rp New Auburn +#8-

@ O s s e o - Fa i r c h i l d

Lake Holcombe +#5-

Stanley-Boyd +44-37@ A l to o n a

Owen-Withee +#3@ O w e n -W it h e e Colby +#6-

Solon Springs +57-31-

Clear Lake +#3Elk Mound +37-30-

Prescott +#2-

@ O s s e o - F a i rc h i l d Cadott +#8-

1: 3 0 p . m .

Clayton +#1Luck +#5-

Elk Mound +#3@ E l k M ou n d St. Croix Central +#6-

@ Web st er

Birchwood +#3-

Regis +#1-

@Sp ri ng Vall ey Spring Valley +#4-

Drummond +56-19-

Flambeau +#1-

Hurley +#3@ Hu r l e y Phillips +#6-

@ N o rt h w o o d

South Shore +#7-

Ladysmith +#1-

Cameron +#5-

Bayfield +#5-

WIAA State Tournament March 14 - Semi-finals Sectional #1 vs. Sectional #3 approx. 10:30 a.m.

Northwood +70-19-

Solon Springs +#3-

Boyceville +#2-

@ L a d ys m i t h Chetek +#8-

Lac Courte +#8-

@ D r u m m on d Drummond +#4-

@ A m e ry

Glenwood City +#3@ G le n wo o d C it y Unity +#6-

@ N o r th w o o d

@ G ilm an Gilman +#4-

Thorp +33-22@ Th o r p Gilman +55-41-

Cornell +#3Owen-Withee +54-49-

@Co r nell EC Immanuel +#6-

@ Mo n do v i

Abbotsford +#7-

Mondovi +42-36-

@ M o n d o vi Greenwood +#2-

Friday girls/from page 26

Luck's Erica Wilson drives the lane in last weeks game over Webster.

Amanda Alberg is in the background. – Photos by Carl Heidel

Webster's Beth Baer made all the difference in the Tigers win over Luck last week.

@ B l oo m e r 1: 3 0 p . m .

EC Immanuel +40-36@ G r e e n wo o d Greenwood +47-25-

Luck, scoring 15 points, while keeping the Cardinal numbers to eight.

“The girls showed up with a full passion bucket,” Widiker commented.

By halftime, Luck was able to catch up, scoring 10 points while Baer put up two field goals for Webster’s four points.

“Our goal was to get up early and stay up,” Widiker said. “We did for the most part, but faltered a little in the fourth, missing free throws and not working the clock, allowing Luck to extend the game to overtime.”

The second half of the game was still in Tigers favor, 36-33, after the third. It was in the fourth that Luck came back to knock in those three more points to tie it up, 44-44.

“I was proud of our kids coming back to tie it up at the end of regulation,” Messar stated. “Megan Hacker made a couple of key baskets down the stretch to get us even.”

Hacker was a big shooter during the night for the Cardinals. She had four points in both the third and fourth quarters and one in the second for 10 points.

She also made three assists.

Overtime was when Baer stepped in to make the final push. With her six points and Sam Hogle’s two, they pulled away from Luck. The Cardinals were only allowed three more points to take the loss.

“I think we had the overtime advantage just coming off of a double overtime win with Grantsburg,” Widiker said. “So the girls were confident and comfortable. We hit four buckets to their one in a strong finish, and Sam Hogle

had back-to-back steals in overtime to help us take the lead for good.”

Hogle had steals and scored eight points for the Tiger team.

“She (Hogle) never lets up on defense,” Widiker explained.

Michelle Gibbs had one field goal, two 3-pointers, and one free throw during the night. Leah Janssen scored four.

“Michelle was more aggressive offensively,” Widiker said. “Her nine points form the outside gave us balance. She’s a bit hesitant, but moving in the right direction.”

Taryn Pilz led the Luck team with 17 points and Sarah Peterson added 12.

Krystal Stage came off the bench to lead the Cardinal team with eight rebounds and also put up six points.

“We shot 18/60 for the game,” Messar finished. “Baer’s offensive rebounding and scoring were too much for us to offTeam Luck Webster

1 2 3 4 OT 8 10 15 11 3 15 4 17 8 8 Individual Statistics Luck 2s 3s FTM/A F Erica Wilson 1 0 2/2 2 Briana Stage 0 0 0/0 1 Melissa Jenssen 0 0 0/0 1 Megan Hacker 5 0 0/1 1 Sarah Petersen 2 0 6/8 5 Krystal Stage 3 0 0/0 2 Taryn Pilz 7 0 3/6 1 Totals 18 0 11/17 13 Webster Samantha Hogle Amanda Alberg Leah Janssen Chelsey Bereiter Reba Smallwood Beth Baer Rose Kopecky Michelle Gibbs Totals

2s 2 1 2 0 1 8 0 3 17

F 47 52 TP 4 0 0 10 10 6 17 47

3s FTM/A F TP 1 1/4 0 8 0 0/0 1 2 0 0/0 1 4 0 2/2 1 2 0 1/2 1 3 0 5/13 3 21 1 0/0 0 3 1 0/0 2 9 3 9/21 9 52

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Girls bball/from pg. 20 Spring Valley 54, St. Croix Falls 49 SPRING VALLEY – The Spring Valley Cardinals ended the Saints’ playoff hopes on Tuesday night. The Saints hung to within four points after both first and second quarters, and closed the gap to just two points in the third quarter.

The game remained close into the fourth quarter, but the Cardinals outscored the Saints by three to advance to the second round of the playoffs.

The Saints are still a youthful team and should be very competitive next season. Sophomore Marissa Campeau led the Saints with 20 points, and Jenny Benoy added nine. Megan Yunker played her first game in quite some time after suffering a dislocated shoulder earlier in the season. She scored six points on the night, as well as Amanda Larson who also had six. The Saints only two seniors on the team were Kelsey Douglass-White and Sasha Bryant.

Glenwood City 47, Unity 27 GLENWOOD CITY – The Unity girls ended their run in the playoffs on Tuesday night to the Hilltoppers, despite getting off to a good start.

“We got off to a great start but couldn’t maintain our poise,” said coach Chuck Holicky. “They went on a 5-0 run in the last minute of the first quarter and carried that over into the second quarter.”

Holicky said the girls were able to shut Glenwood City down in the third quarter to just four points, but the team’s offensive struggles continued.

Becca Milligan led with 10 points, and Andrea Thompson added eight. – Marty Seeger

Team St. Croix Falls Spring Valley

1 2 3 4 F 12 13 8 16 49 16 13 6 19 54 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A F TP St. Croix Falls Jenny Benoy 3 1 0/0 0 9 5 3 1/2 1 20 Marissa Campeau Kelsey Douglass-White 0 0 0/0 3 0 Megan Yunker 3 0 0/0 4 6 4 0 0/0 3 8 Sasha Bryant Amanda Larson 3 0 0/0 4 6 Totals 18 4 1/2 15 49 Spring Valley Alyssa Gould Carly Cook Kelsey Lansing Kimmy Keehr Kali Howe Aarynn Deutsch Totals

2s 0 1 0 8 0 5 14

3s FTM/A F 2 0/0 1 0 4/4 1 0 4/4 1 2 4/5 5 0 2/2 1 0 0/0 2 4 14/15 11

TP 6 6 4 26 2 10 54

Webster/from page 21 “We got the ball inside and Brian (Thill) played well, and defensively we made them shoot over us, so I guess that was a key,” Hedrick said.

Thill ended up with a team-high 24 points on the night, which isn’t bad for a kid who hurt his ankle in the previous game against Unity. Hedrick said not many noticed, but Thill was hurting a little from the previous injury. He

Luck/from page 20 Clayton didn’t get further than 10 in the third, and a Cody Richert 3-pointer soon got the tables turning for Luck.

Klatt and Giller assists to Petersen and Olson on the inside helped get the Cards back to within one, and as the buzzer sounded after three the Bears held a 30-27 lead.

Richert tied it back up quickly with a 3-pointer in the fourth, and Petersen and Olson each hit a pair to give Luck an early four-point lead. But Clayton shot well from the line and tied the game with free throws from Ryan

Saints Kelsey Douglass-White dribbles around an opponent during an earlier game this season. – File photo by Brenda Sommerfeld Team Unity Glenwood City

1 2 3 4 10 2 8 7 16 14 4 13 Individual Statistics Unity 2s 3s FTM/A Tina Edgell 1 0 0/0 Samantha Ince 0 0 0/0 Merissa Hacker 0 0 0/0 Brianna Schmid 1 0 2/2 Becca Milligan 4 0 2/3 Stephanie Kothlow 0 0 1/2 Crystal Donahue 1 0 0/0 Andrea Thompson 4 0 0/0 Totals 11 0 5/7 Glenwood City Katelyn Mueller Bethany Mitch Brittany Myers Dede Crosby Rochelle Wink Kristen Konder Mackenzie Miller Amanda Woodington Marietta Frieburg Totals

2s 1 0 6 4 1 0 0 2 0 14

F 27 47 F TP 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 4 2 10 0 1 0 2 1 8 7 27

3s FTM/A F 0 0/0 1 0 2/4 1 5 0/0 0 0 2/2 2 0 0/0 1 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 1 0 0/0 1 0 0/0 2 5 4/6 11

TP 2 2 27 10 2 0 0 4 0 47

Unity’s Brianna Schmid shoots the ball against the Siren team in their game last Friday. – File photo by Brenda Sommerfeld Prairie Farm 56, Luck 53 PRAIRIE FARM – The Luck girls lost a tough battle to Prairie Farm to end their season. Both teams posted 4-5 records coming into the game.

According to coach Marty Messar the team led by five points in the fourth quarter, but too many turnovers played a big role in the loss. Taryn Pilz led with 17 points and nine boards, Morgan Denny had 13 and Erica Wilson and Sarah Petersen both had eight points. – Marty Seeger

Luck’s Taryn Pilz goes for the rebound during their recent game against Webster. – Photo by Carl Heidel Team Luck Prairie Farm

1 2 3 4 F 10 14 21 21 53 8 22 11 16 56 Individual Statistics Luck 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Erica Wilson 2 0 4/4 3 8 Briana Stage 0 0 0/2 1 0 Melissa Jenssen 0 0 0/0 1 0 Megan Hacker 1 0 0/0 0 2 Sarah Petersen 4 0 0/1 0 8 Krystal Stage 0 0 0/0 3 0 Brittney Danielson 1 0 0/0 3 2 Morgan Denny 4 0 5/10 4 13 1 0 1/4 3 3 Aleah Lemieux Taryn Pilz 8 0 1/4 3 17 21 0 11/25 21 53 Totals Prairie Farm Bailee George Breanna Anderson Klesey Wirth Kaela Huston Hayley Broten Renee Wirth Brittany George Brittany Rassbach Totals

2s 2 1 0 0 2 0 2 7 14

3s FTM/A F 4 0/0 2 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 2 0 0/0 4 0 2/6 3 0 10/15 4 0 5/7 3 4 17/28 22

TP 16 2 2 0 4 2 14 19 56

though Thill wasn’t as quick to jump as he usually does, but he still played a very solid game.

Despite the 10-point lead in the second half, Hedrick said the game went back and forth for a big part of the game. While the Pirates didn’t have any one player come out with a big number of points, the majority put points on the board. Jason Jensen had eight points, Connar Goetz had seven, Ben Larson added six and Trent Bonneville produced five.

For Webster it was Thill with 24, then Brian Gibbs with 12 and A.J. Holmquist who added 11 points on the night. The Tigers shot 12 of 21 from the line as well.

“It was closer than the score probably indicated,” Hedrick said.

The Tigers will be moving on to the sectional semifinal game in Rice Lake against the Hurley this Friday night.

Hedrick said he scouted the team earlier when they lost to Drummond. The team was without their leading scorer during the game and lost by two points.

Earlier in the year, however, Hurley defeated Drummond 85-57. Hedrick said there was also word that Hurley might be without their leading scorer due to illness this Friday, but its hard to say whether he’ll be playing or not.

Hedrick says its tough to scout teams during this time of year. But Webster’s been in situations like these before, and they’ll no doubt be ready to play.

Zemke before the stalling ensued. It remained Clayton’s ball after their first timeout. They took their second timeout with 18 seconds to go. As the final seconds ticked off the clock and tensions rose, Luck was able to hold on defensively and send it to overtime.

“You’ve got to take your hats off to Clayton,” coach Giller said. “They stymied us with their defense, and played us really tough and made it very difficult for us to get something going on offense.”

In overtime Richert followed up on a missed 3-pointer by grabbing his own rebound and putting it back for two

points. After a Luck timeout, Klatt drew a foul and made one, which gave Luck a three-point lead. But Clayton’s Effertz tied the game back up with another big 3-pointer with just 30 seconds remaining.

Luck took advantage of their final possession and cleaned the remaining seconds off the clock. With just three seconds on the clock, Klatt seized a small opening in the Clayton defense and drove hard toward the basket for two. The shot was deflected, yet Klatt drew the foul as the buzzer sounded.

Klatt would get two chances to put the game away for good, but in the end, he

needed just one. Katt sunk the first free throw all alone at the line, with all eyes on him.

“There was a lot of pressure there and I didn’t want to let any of my teammates down on that one,” Klatt said after the game.

Luck travels to Spooner to face the No. 1 seeded Thorp this Friday night beginning at 8 p.m. in the sectional semifinal game.

“It doesn’t get easy when you get to this point, [but] kids have been doing a great job and hopefully make our mark up at Spooner now,” Giller said.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Knights of Columbus free-throw winners SIREN – Knights of Columbus District 87 free-throw winners were decided on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Siren High School. They include council winners from Spooner, Webster, Frederic and Balsam Lake. They are now eligible to the Diocesan

contest at Ladysmith on March 15. The Frederic Council includes Siren, Luck, Grantsburg and Frederic. –Submitted

Boys free-throw winners (R to L): Tristan Brewer, Grantsburg, Antonio Morales, Luck, Gavin Andersen, Spooner, Connor Myers and Nolan Hanson, Grantsburg. – Photos submitted

Girls free-throw winners (R to L): Alexis Frazee, Webster, Whitney Petersen, Luck, Shauna Jorgenson, Unity, Andrea Stair and Kasea Roman, Spooner.

Youth hockey results St. Croix Falls Youth

Burnett Youth Hockey

February 16-17

PeeWee

Bantam

Antigo 7, River Valley 3

February 22-24

Blizzard 7, Superior 3

Goals: Hayden Peterson, Jorday Hallen, Mathew Milner River Valley 5, Beaver Dam 4 Goals: Hayden Peterson (2), Jesse Loen (2), Levi Ward Assists: Mathew Milner (2), Hayden Peterson River Valley 4, K.G. Remax 1 Goals: Hayden Peterson (2), Mathew Milner, Kyle Chapman Assists: Mathew Milner, Levi Ward 1

Goals: Anthony Dietmeier (4), Tyler Richison (2), Joe Engelhart Assists: Matt Smith, Joe Engelhart, Jordan Sargent Saves: Brandon Roufs (8), Thomas Labatt (4)

Blizzard 6, Eagle River 1

Goals: Joe Engelhart 93), Cody Benedict, Matt Smith, Jordan Sargent Assists: Gino Lonetti (2), Kyle Roberts, Anthony Dietmeier (2), Bert Luedtke Saves: Thomas Labatt (13)

Blizzard 3, St. Peter 0

U-12 Girls

Blizzard 9, Farmington 0

Grantsburg 4, Cloquet 4

Goals: Ryan Curtis (3), Aaron Dietmeier (2), Matt Larson, Paige Young, Brian Billings, Alex Hopkins Assists: Ryan Curtis (2), Brian Billings (2), Matt Larson, Jeremy Roy, Alex Hopkins Saves: Jimmy Richison (10)

PeeWee A

Goals: Brian Billings (2), Jacob Swenson, Matt Larson Assists: Triston Aldan, Matt Larson Saves: Jimmy Richison (14)

Isanti 4, Grantsburg 3

Goals: Sam O’Brien (3) Assists: Laura Harlander Saves: Hope Tucker (8)

Goals: Wendy Roberts (2), Sam O’Brien (2) Assists: Ashley Dietmeier Saves: Hope Tucker (9)

Blizzard 7, Black River Falls 0 Goals: Ryan Curtis

Blizzard 4, Hayward 1

(3), Brian Billings (2), Aaron Dietmeier (2) Assists: Ryan Curtis (4), Triston Alden, Matt Larson (2), Aaron Dietmeier Saves: Jimmy Richison (13)

Goals: Cody Benedict (2), Joe Engelhart Assists: Joe Engelhart (2), Tyler Richison Saves: Thomas Labatt (15)

2007-08 Division 3 Boys Basketball Playoffs

2007-08 Division 4 Boys Basketball Playoffs

S E C T I O N A L # 1 • G a m e t i m e s a re a t 7 p . m . u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e n o t e d . • C h e c k f or u p d a t e d t i m e s .

SE C T ION A L #1 • Ga me ti mes ar e at 7 p.m . u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e n o t e d . • C h e c k f o r u p d a te d t i m e s .

Re g i o n a l s S a t . , Fe b . 2 3

S e ct i o n a l s F r i . , Fe b . 2 9

Webster +46-28-

S at . , Mar . 1

WIAA State Tournament March 6 - Semi-finals Sectional #1 vs. Sectional #3 9:05 a.m.

@Amer y Webster +58-457 p. m .

Re g i o n a l s S a t . , Fe b . 2 3

S e c ti o n a l s F r i . , Fe b . 2 9

Drummond +53-51-

WIAA State Tournament March 7 - Semi-finals Sectional #1 vs. Sectional #3 9:05 a.m.

@Webst er Drummond +48-401 : 30 p . m .

Grantsburg +58-51-

Siren +63-57-

@ R i ce L a k e 7 p. m .

Hurley +66-42-

@ S p oo n e r 6 p. m .

The Blizzard PeeWee A is headed to the state tournament in Black River Falls this weekend. Their first matchup will be on Saturday against Tomah. Pictured front row: Jimmy Richison.

First row (L to R): Triston Alden, Jeremy Roy, Aaron Dietmeier and Cameron McWilliam. Second row: Paige Young, Matt Larson, Ryan Curtis, Jake Swenson and Brian Billings. Back row: Coaches Preston Curtis, Mark Swenson and Jim Meldahl.

Not pictured: Alex Hopkins and DJ Hunter. – Photo submitted

Prentice +59-40-

@A shland Hurley +47-417 p. m .

Ladysmith +47-37-

@L ak ela nd Mellen +47-451 : 30 p . m .

Mellen +55-50-

@ E a u C l a i r e N o r th , 7 p . m .

Regis +66-38-

@ S p o on e r Luck +59-33-

@E lls wo rt h Regis +59-447 p . m.

Spring Valley +60-58-

@C umb erl and Luck +40-39 OT1: 3 0 p . m .

Clayton +58-46@ C h ip pe wa F a ll s 7 p. m.

Colby +85-75-

@A lt o ona Fall Creek +65-547 p. m.

Fall Creek +60-55 OT-

S a t . , M a r. 1

@ S p o on e r 8 p . m.

Thorp +65-30-

@N ew A ubur n Thorp +78-40-

Lake Holcombe +53-52-

The River Valley Eagles took home the consolation trophy after the Barron tournament the weekend of Feb. 16 and 17.

Pictured front row (L to R): Dylan Lynch, Tyler Aikin and Charlie Moore. Back row: Jordan Hallen, Kyle Chapman, Cooper Peterson, Mathew Milner, Levi Ward, Jesse Loen, Hayden Peterson and coach Greg Johnson. – Photo submitted

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Burnett Bulldog youth wrestling

Anna Horky, Lisa Gaffney and Jessica Glover sold raffle tickets for the Burnett Bulldogs Wrestling Club at the club’s annual tournament last Saturday. The tournament, which brought teams to the event from all over northwestern Wisconsin and Minnesota, is also one the club’s biggest fundraising events for the year.

Prekindergarteners Bradley Lucas, Luck, and Jacob Simon, Cumberland, took their turn on the mats at the Burnett Bulldogs Youth Wrestling Club’s tournament and fundraising event at Grantsburg High School Saturday. A total of 408 Pre-K through eighth-grade wrestlers competed for trophies and other awards during the daylong tournament. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

A R E A At Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: D & B’s 46, The Hee Haws 41.5, Sandbaggers 39, Spare-Us 36, Gems 34.5, Hot Shots 34.

Women’s games: Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 196, Dorothy Barfknecht (Hot Shots) 193, Edla Meyer (Sandbaggers) 173.

Women’s series: Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 530, Dorothy Barfknecht (Hot Shots) 505, Jen Renfroe (The Hee Haws) 460.

Men’s games: Bruce Gravelle (D&B’s) 244, Scott Morrison (Gems) 234, Shane Nyland (D&B’s) 212.

Men’s series: Bruce Gravelle (D&B’s) 669, Shane Nyland (D&B’s) 612, Scott Morrison (Gems) 592.

Team games: D & B’s 849, Hot Shots 823, Sandbaggers 820.

Team series: D & B’s 2462, Hot Shots 2368, Sandbaggers 2342.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Bruce Gravelle (9 & 5).

Games 50 or more above average: Shane Nyland (+61 & +51); Scott Morrison (+55).

Series 100 or more above average: Shane Nyland (+129).

Splits converted: 4-10: Scott Lamphere.

6-7-10: Edla Meyer. 5-7: Scott Morrison.

Monday Afternoon Seniors Standings: Nite Hawks 19.5, Swans 19, Bears 13, Eagles 10, Badgers 9.5, Bye 0.

Women’s games: Nancy Morten 184, Lila Larson 161, Betty Anderson 159.

Women’s series: Lila Larson 453, Betty Anderson 438, Nancy Morten 395.

Men’s games: Roger Messer 194, Dick Coen 193, Chuck Moyer & Chuck Hahr 183.

Men’s series: Dick Coen 519, Roger Messer 484, Chuck Hahr 481.

Team games: Nite Hawks 635, Eagles 597, Bears 586.

Team series: Nite Hawks 1774, Bears 1663, Bears 1662.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 41, Radio Shack 40, The Bottle Shop 33, Miller Chicks 31, Mane Attractions 26, House of Wood 25, Anchor Bank 24, Bye 4.

Individual games: Robin Lindvall (BS) 203, JoAnn Pomerleau (MA) 191, Linda Giller (AB) 188.

Individual series: Sandy Hacker (HL) 551, JoAnn Pomerleau (MA) 541, Linda Giller (AB) 488.

Team games: Mane Attractions 623, Anchor Bank 600, Hacker’s Lanes 596.

Team series: Mane Attractions 1787, Hacker’s Lanes 1785, Radio Shack 1733.

LEFT: Hunter Martell of Chippewa Falls sported a Mohawk complete with team color at the Burnett Bulldogs Wrestling Tournament in Grantsburg last Saturday.

Martell, who posed with teammate and friend, Kyle Bowe, said he had help with his do from his parents.

B O W L I N G Tuesday Youth (2 games) Standings: Pin Heads 10, Double Headers 8, Pin Destroyers 7, Pin Patrol 5.

Girl’s games: None.

Girl’s series: None.

Boy’s games: Austin Bruss 180, Charlie Lindberg 137, Austin Kurkowski 130.

Boy’s series: Austin Bruss 300, Charlie Lindberg 261, Jaryd Braden 223.

Team games: Pin Patrol 397 & 324, Pin Heads 315.

Team series: Pin Patrol 721, Double Headers 575, Pin Heads 573.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Great Northern Outdoors 71, Bottle Shop 64, Hacker’s Lanes 58.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 56, Pioneer Bar 36, Hog Wild 33.5, St. Croix Valley Hardwoods 25, Reliables 20.

Individual games: Reed Stevens 258, Ron Skow 255, Daryl Bazey 255.

Individual series: Ron Skow 681, Ed Bitler 660, Reed Stevens 643.

Team games: Great Northern Outdoors 692, Hog Wild 657, Bottle Shop 621.

Team series: Great Northern Outdoors 1962, Bottle Shop 1763, Pioneer Bar 1742.

Games 50 or more above average: Daryl Bazey 255 (+81).

Wednesday Afternoon Ladies Standings: Eggs 5-39, Pioneer Bar 737.5, Frandsen Dairy 2-29, Hacker’s Lanes 0-20.5.

Individual games: Laur Fisk (PB) 200, Jeanne DesJardins (PB) 180, Char Sandberg (PB) 175.

Individual series: Laur Fisk (PB) 494, Char Sandberg (PB) 461, Jeanne DesJardins (PB) 459.

Team games: Pioneer Bar 644 & 570, Frandsen Dairy 559.

Team series: Pioneer Bar 1737, Frandsen Dairy 1565, Hacker’s Lanes 1529.

Wednesday Night Early Men’s Standings: Lewis Silo 22, Cummings Lumber 19, Skol Bar 17, Parker 16, Larsen Auto Center 15, Pioneer Bar 14, A-1 Machine 13, Four Seasons Wood Products 12.

Individual games: Gene Ackland (4S) 245, Chuck Kruse (CL) 237, Norm Hansen (A-1) 237.

Individual series: Steve Baillargeon (A1) 639, Gene Ackland (4S) 635, Jon Doolittle (LS) & Curt Phelps (4S) 631.

Team games: Four Seasons Wood Products 1024, Cummings Lumber 1002, Four Seasons Wood Products 984.

Team series: Four Seasons Wood Products 2960, Cummings Lumber 2802, Lewis Silo 2800.

Thursday Early 3-Man (3rd Quarter Finals) Standings: Wikstrom Construction (4) 70, Full Timers (9) 58.5, Fab Four (7) 55, Hell Raisers (6) 55, Grindell Law Offices (11) 51, CenturyTel (10.5) 46.5, K-Wood (2) 40, Frontier Trails (2.5) 40.

Individual games: Dave Grindell (GLO) 246 & 241, Jake Anderson (HR) 236.

Individual series: Dave Grindell (GLO) 711, Mike Sullivan (WC) & Blake Douglas (GLO) 618, Tim Pederson (FF) 613.

Team games: Grindell Law Offices 632, Hell Raisers 601, Grindell Law Offices 597.

Team series: Grindell Law Offices 1816, Hell Raisers 1712, Full Timers 1657.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Jake Anderson 7x = 236.

Games 50 or more above average: Dave Grindell 246 (+51).

Series 100 or more above average: Dave Grindell 711 (+126).

Most points: Dave Hall 50.

Splits converted: 2-7-8: Lydell Larson.

4-5: Marlin Larson. 2-5-7: Tom Vilstrup; Tim Lundmark.

Thursday Late Men’s Standings: Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 23-9, Fisk Trucking 19-13, Hansen Farms Inc. 15-17, Stotz & Company 14-18, Johnson Upholstery 12-20.

Individual games: Gene Wynn Jr. 266, Lydell Larson 257, Doug Johnson 226.

Individual series: Gene Wynn Jr. 744, Lydell Larson 657, Doug Johnson 606.

Team games: Hansen Farms Inc. 983, Fisk Trucking 931, Stotz & Company 925.

Team series: Hansen Farms Inc. 2775, Fisk Trucking 2619, Stotz & Company 2515.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: Skol Bar 43, Meyer’s Plus 40, The Leader 36.5, Hole in the Wall 23.5, Tin Cup Promotions 23, Junque Art 23.

Individual games: Missy Hernandez 236, Gail Linke 235, Cara Holicky 201.

Individual series: Gail Linke 601, Missy Hernandez 528, Cara Holicky 528.

R E S U L T S Team games: Skol Bar 696, Junque Art 646, The Leader 642.

Team series: Skol Bar 2016, Junque Art 1845, Meyer’s Plus 1829.

Games 50 or more above average: Gail Linke.

Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Generation III 55, Dead Eyes 50, Skowl 48, Lakers 47, XIT 45, Schmidt House 4 45, Handicaps 43, CC Lupinos 31.

Women’s games: Mona Renfroe (GE) 216, Jenn Renfroe (GE) 170, Arleen Schmidt (SC) 169.

Women’s series: Mona Renfroe (GE) 484, Jenn Renfroe (GE) 483, Chris Berg (X) 557.

Men’s games: Terry Ingram (SK) 232, Ron Skow (SK) 226 and 221.

Men’s series: Ron Skow (SK) 642, Jeb Clarin (DE) 602, Terry Ingram (SK) 597.

Team games: Skowl 767, Generation III 733, XIT 702.

Team series: Skowl 2068, Generation III 2057, XIT 1991.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Madness Standings: Peper Tire & Align. 43, Pepie’s Gals 37, Scottay’s Trucking 36, McKenzie Lanes 36, State Farm Ins. 34, Osceola Plumbing & Heating 34, Frederic Larsen Auto 32, Alleycats 30.

Individual games: Melanie Erickson 178, Allison Magner 178, Debbie Swanson 177.

Individual series: Allison Magner 505, Melanie Erickson 496, Debbie Swanson 474.

Team games: (Handicap scores) McKenzie Lanes 622, Pepie’s Gals 618, Peper Tire & Align. 601.

Team series: (Handicap scores) McKenzie Lanes 1778, Frederic Larsen Auto 1701, Pepie’s Gals 1692.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Metal Products Co. 30, Edina Divas 25, Sam’s Carpentry 22, Bont Chiropractor 20, Milltown Appliance 19, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 17, McKenzie Lanes 16, Frederic Truck & Tractor 11.

Individual games: Dana Amundson 225, Toni Sloper 183, Cindy Castellano 183.

Individual series: Dana Amundson 610, Cindy Castellano 529, Toni Sloper 512.

Team games: (Handicap score) Edina Divas 954.

Team series: (Handicap score) Metal Products Co. 2816.

Tuesday Women’s Day Standings: A-1 Machine 88.5, Kassel Tap 83, Custom Outfitter 79.5, Hauge Dental 75, Country Gals 64, B & H

Builders 60, Gutter Dusters 59, Bye 35.

Individual games: Denise F. Donaghue 201, Norma Hauge 192, Lois Swenson 189.

Individual series: Norma Hauge 543, Denise F. Donaghue 528, Lois Swenson 499.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Hauge Dental 778, A-1 Machine 773, gutter Dusters 757.

Team series: (Handicap scores) A-1 Machine 2248, Hauge Detal 2242, B & H Builders 2239.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: McKenzie Lanes 91, Dream Lawn 78, Greatland Trans. 7.5, Nel-LoHill Farm 70, , Steve’s Appl. 65.5, Glass Bar 64, The Dugout 60, Hack’s Pub 58.

Individual games: Darren McKenzie 299, Jeff Lehmann 277, Norm Hansen 269.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 756, Rick Fox 718, Jeff Lehmann 709.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Dream Lawn 1300, Steve’s Appliance 1250, Greatland Transportation 1227.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Steve’s Appliance 3693, Dream Lawn 3504, McKenzie Lanes 3478.

Wednesday Early League Standings: Fox Den II 38, Hendrick’s Motor 37, Cutting Edge 34, Holiday StationStores 32, Lite House 32, Fox Den 28, Larsen Auto Frederic 27, TriCounty Implement 26.

Women’s games: Patty Walker 244, Shannon Cox 183, Janice Fox and Dixie Welling 171.

Women’s series: Patty Walker 550, Janice Fox 463, Dixie Welling 459.

Men’s games: Bob Berg 256, Merlin Fox 246, Todd Wagner 215.

Men’s series: Merlin Fox 656, Bob Berg 645, Todd Wagner 576.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Holiday StationStores 711, Fox Den 695, Fox Den II 668.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Holday StationStores 1958, Fox Den 1939, Lite House 1901.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 8, McKenzie Lanes 8, Dales Electric 8, Edina Realty 6, Harvest Moon 2, Davy’s Construction 0, Reed’s Marina 0, Hanjo Farms 0.

Individual games: Jason Loney 263, Jim McKenzie 263, Sam Leggitt and Gene Braund 258.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 686, Jim McKenzie 680, Dick Wallis 665.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Edina Realty 1078, Tiger Express 2991.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Dalles Electric 1938, Edina Realty 2977.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

L

E

A

Epic Boys Battles Friday in Rice Lake and Spooner, Girls Saturday in Webster The Division 4 Webster Tigers (202) will face the Hurley Midgets (212) at Rice Lake Friday night while the Luck Cardinals (21-2) tangles with a fine Thorp Cardinals team (176) over at Spooner.

The Tigers tip off at 7 p.m. and the Cards’ battle will start at approximately 8:05.

Well-balanced Thorp is on an impressive roll lately while Hurley is known for having of a couple of big scorers.

Unfortunately, the Midgets’ 24-point per game sparkplug Daulton Levra may miss Friday’s game due to illness. One of Hurley’s two losses came to last Saturday’s Siren boys foe, Drummond, a game when Levra was also sidelined.

And one would hate to jinx the Siren girls squad, but its a virtual cinch local fans will see the Dragons clash this Saturday afternoon at Webster versus rival Northwood. The winner will grab a berth in the Spooner sectional and will most likely face the formidable Flambeau Falcons.

Before next season, I hope to come up with a clever nickname for Siren’s Emery sisters, Janey and Carley. It will probably have something to do with “polishing off” opponents, applying the concept of an emery cloth, emery board or emery wheel. Stay tuned.

J o h n R y a n

THE SPORTS

PAGE

Midwest Basketball Legend Watches Luck-Clayton Clash Yes, that tall drink of water who was on the scene at Luck’s game last Saturday at Cumberland was none other than Lake City, Minn., native and Minnesota Gopher great Randy Breuer. Breuer also an 11-year NBA career with four different teams with most of his tenure spent playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Just Missed 1,000 A meticulous review of Leader archives and old scorebooks has revealed that Siren’s Adam Daniels had scored 967 career points prior to last

D

E

Saturday’s game with Drummond.

That’s a very impressive number indeed, especially for someone who did not see varsity action as a freshman.

Daniels, incidentally, is being pegged as a future wide receiver by the UWStevens Point football staff.

More UW Stevens Point News A few weeks ago, an alert reader chastised and harangued this columnist for mistakenly reporting that former Luck great Britta Petersen was shooting at a 51 percent clip from the field for UWSP. In actuality Petersen’s number at the time was a lofty 61 percent, which is more in line with the percentage her father, Paul, and uncle, Ronnie Petersen shot for the Cardinals back in the 1960s and ‘70s. Since the day of my grievous error (which can be attributed to not having my Dollar Store 1.25-power magnifying spectacles within reach) Petersen’s Pointers have been on a roll, winning five straight including an impressive win over Oshkosh in last night’s WIAC tourney quarterfinals.

Petersen has been 20 for 38 in those past five games and her season percentage now stands at 57 percent.

No Fairy Tale Roland Grimh and Doug Grimh appeared to be having good luck on panfish through the ice of a southeast Burnett County lake last weekend. The Brothers Grimh are best known for being pioneers on the local hockey scene, and prominent boosters of the the W-S-F-G Blizzard high school hockey team on which their nephew, David Harlander, stars as a defenseman.

Baseball Stove Glowing Red Hot College baseball seasons have kicked in which means numerous former local high school standouts will be taking to the cozy confines of Metrodome in Minneapolis and/or to the warm climes of the southern U.S. for their first spate of games. Be sure to look in this column and elsewhere on the Leader’s sports pages for updates on the prowess of our local ballplayers who have moved on.

One of those ballplayers is former Frederic high multisport great Marty Niles whom this year earned a spot on the pitching staff for the UW-Superior Yellowjackets. Niles and his mates will open the season at Metrodome next Wednesday with a morning doubleheader versus Morningside College. Ten

LEADER S P O R T S S C O R E B O A R D BOYS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings

Team Webster Luck Grantsburg St. Croix Falls Unity Frederic Siren

Conf.

11-1 11-1 7-5 7-5 3-9 2-10 1-12

Scores

Overall 20-2 21-2 15-7 9-12 7-14 4-17 5-18

WOMEN’S POOL LEAGUE

Coming up

GIRLS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings Conf.

11-1 10-2 7-5 5-7 5-7 2-11 2-11

Friday, February 22 Frederic 52, Grantsburg 46 Webster 52, Luck 47 OT Siren 43, Unity 18 Tuesday, February 26 Siren 87, South Shore 30 Prairie Farm 57, Luck 53 Frederic 52, Turtle Lake 37 Webster 39, Grantsburg 38 Glenwood City 47, Unity 27 Spring Valley 54, St. Croix Falls 49 Thursday, February 28 7 p.m.

Solon Springs at Siren Clear Lake at Frederic Webster at Colfax

Saturday, February 29 7 p.m.

Webster vs Hurley at Rice Lake 8 p.m.

Luck vs Thorp at Spooner

Team Siren Frederic St. Croix Falls Webster Grantsburg Luck Unity

Scores

Coming up

Thursday, February 21 Siren 63, South Shore 57 Luck 59, Turtle Lake 33 Webster 46, Unity 28 Grantsburg 58, Glenwood City 51 Saturday, February 23 Drummond 48, Siren 40 Luck 40, Clayton 39 OT Webster 58, Grantsburg 45

Overall 19-2 18-3 9-12 9-12 6-14 5-16 2-19

R

Team Greg’s Gals Suzy Q’s Blacksmith Shop JJ’s Wise Guys Glass Bar Hacks Kassel Tap Crystal Shafer’s Harvest Moon

Score 96 91 89 85 77 75 70 67 56 55 47

S

P

O

days later, the Jackets embark on a trip to Florida. Niles’ UWS baseball web page mini-bio lists “winning the St. Croix tournament when he was young” as his most memorable baseball moment. That’s pretty cool.

International Baseball Ambassador Cumberland living legend Mark Fuller was part of a U.S. delegation of baseball men who had the honor and privilege of conducting a three-day baseball clinic in Ljubljana, Slovenia ,last month. The event was sponsored

by International Sports Group Inc, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the growth of youth baseball internationally. Fuller talked about the Slovenian event during an impromptu interview in the hallway of Cumberland High School last Saturday afternoon.

They’re Moving on Up Spies working the dark corners of the cavernous Antholz Gymnasium in Spooner report that the WIAA has assigned local Websterites and wellknown sports officials Tim Widiker and Tim McIntyre to be part of the three-man crew that will work game one Friday night in the Division 4 sectional. (Drummond versus Mellen) The Webster duo will be joined by fellow veteran zebra Ray Kosey who is well known in northern Wisconsin for his years as head football coach at Maple Northwestern. That same trio worked the Division 2 Spooner-New Richmond regional final last Saturday.

PREPS

R

Just like a good basketball team, I have reached my peak at tournament time. How does the word “perfection” sound to you? It sounds pretty good to me.

Yes, I was 13-0 The last week which Amazing brings my overall Bynor percentage back up to 83 percent.

I have already THE AMAZING successfully BYNOR brought two local teams to sectionals and by Saturday afternoon you can make that three.

What do you think of your Swami now, you naysayers?

PREDICTS

S

Trivia returns! This week’s exercise is called “Shutout from Sectionals” In each list of current and former local basketball legends from five local schools, there is one icon listed who never had the opportunity to play in a Sectional basketball tournament. Can you find that player?

1) Frederic—Brett Southard, Rod Carlson, Duane Clausen, Harold Erickson, Jim Brekke 2) Grantsburg—Jason Slaikeu, Pad Judd, Aaron Goepfert, Korky Morrin, Ryan Hansen 3) Webster— A.J. Holmquist, Paul Oleson, Kevin Ingalls, Brian Thill, Todd Rypkema 4) St. Croix Falls—Dave Holland, Brian Lamirande, Steve Edling, Andy Nelson, Tory Greenquist 5) Luck—John Jensen, Nick Mueller, Brennan Olson, Cash Langeness, Brent Hacker Answers: 1) Jim Brekke, 2) Jason Slaikeu 3) Todd Rypkema 4) Andy Nelson 5) Nick Mueller

OF THE

NAME: Adam Daniels SCHOOL: Siren YEAR: Senior COMMENTS: The Dragon boys basketball team made it to the regional championship game on Saturday where their season ended. Adam Daniels as a senior was close to 1,000 points, racking up 976 throughout his high school career. He scored Adam Daniels nine in the Drummond game and usually scored between 20 and 30 points in all of Siren’s prior games. – Brenda Sommerfeld

T

WEEK

NAME: Beth Baer SCHOOL: Webster YEAR: Senior COMMENTS: Webster has had two of their last three games go into overtime. With the help of Beth Baer both of these games have been a happy ending for the Tigers. Baer scored 29 points, 12 of the 13 in the Beth Baer double-overtime periods against Grantsburg on Feb. 14. She then put up 21 points in the overtime game against Luck. Baer had six points on Tuesday against Grantsburg for the regional playoff. – Brenda Sommerfeld

Bynor predicts Girls tournaments Colfax 66, Webster 36–The Tigers can’t keep pace with the No. 1 seed.

Frederic 49, Clear Lake 48–This was a really tough one to pick. The Vikings must bring their A game.

Siren 74, Solon Springs 34–Like me, Bynor, the Dragons are peaking at the right time.

Clayton 73, Frederic 33–The Bears continue on their unstoppable roll.

Siren 44, Northwood 35– The Dragons make a payback.

Boys tournaments Luck 59, Thorp 49– The Cards break out of their mini 3-pointer slump and continue to clamp down on defense.

Webster 50, Hurley 43–The Tigers play another textbook game.

Luck 63, Mellen 44–After 35 years, the Cards are back at State.

Webster 42, Eau Claire Regis 40– Suddenly, a reality.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

O UTDOORS INTER- COUNTY LEADER

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

DU fundraising banquet set for Siren SIREN – The Crex Meadows Chapter of Ducks Unlimited will host its annual fundraising banquet on Saturday, March 8, at The Experience banquet center in Siren. Doors open at 5 p.m.

The Crex Meadows chapter of DU, headquartered in Grantsburg, has raised over $310,000 for the ducks since the chapter’s inception. For every dollar raised locally for the organization, over $2 has been returned by DU for local wetland projects. For 2008, DU will donate engineering expertise for several major projects in Polk and Burnett counties.

DU has spent $700,000 through the years in wetland restoration and enhancement projects in the Crex Meadows, Fish Lake and Amsterdam Sloughs state wildlife areas in western Burnett County. To date, over $285,000 in DU funding has been spent in neighboring Polk County to restore 2,078 acres of wetlands and 2,996 acres of grassland nesting cover. Ducks, geese, furbearers and pheasants have all benefited from these habitat-improvement efforts on both public and private lands.

In 2008, DU is playing a major role in the new $1 million NAWCA grant to

restore wetlands and grassland nesting cover on private lands. The latest issue of Ducks Unlimited magazine details how DU acquired $21,000 worth of herbicide to control weeds prior to restoration of native prairie areas at Crex Meadows and Fish Lake.

A private, nonprofit group dedicated to the conservation of North American wetlands and wetland wildlife, DU was started more than 60 years ago by a group of U.S. waterfowl hunters concerned about the loss of wetlands and the drastic decline of duck and goose populations during the drought and dustbowl of the 1930s.

Current members of the Crex Meadows chapter committee are Steve Andersen, Don Anderson, Kyle Anderson, Ethan Bergstrom, Mike Cole, Jim Evrard, Bob Hanson, Scott Johnson, Paul Kooiker, Dennis Solomonson, Tim Spielman and Bruce Teigen.

Contact Teigen at 715-689-2923 for tickets, more information, or to inquire about joining the committee. Volunteers are always welcome.

Ducks Unlimited is dedicated to the conservation of North American Wetlands and wetland wildlife. - Photo courtesy of fws.gov

Time to plan for spring prairie burning STATEWIDE – Aldo Leopold wrote of fire as the immemorial ally of the prairie in the April chapter of his “Sand County Almanac,” as April is the time when the snow is gone, but the new grass is not yet grown full of moisture.

The burning season is very short in Wisconsin, just four or five weeks from late March till early May. Since we can no longer allow uncontrolled prairie fires, landowners and conservationists use prescribed burning, a carefully planned, safe method to achieve the same ends.

Fire, when properly applied, renews prairies and grasslands by: • Creating open ground for wildlife travel, and reducing excess plant litter and dense sod formation.

• Allowing sunlight to reach the soil, encouraging new growth of prairie forbs and legumes.

• Suppressing brush and other nonnative plants • Creating brood-rearing habitat for bobwhite quail, wild turkey, ringnecked pheasant and other grassland birds.

Prescribed burning can reduce naturally occurring wildfire hazards and restore the beauty of natural landscapes.

Burn plans need 30-day advance notice Many Wisconsin landowners are enrolled in Farm Bill Programs that have prescribed fire as part of the contract. The USDA Conservation Reserve Program, Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program, the Wetlands Reserve Program and the Grassland Reserve Program may have grass or prairie establishment with burning as part of the planned restoration. These contracts may require landowners to develop a burn plan which must be written and submitted to the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service office for review 30 days prior to the burn.

Bob Weihrouch, NRCS state biologist, notes that NRCS supports the use of prescribed fire on any lands, where appropriate, to meet specific resource management objectives with an emphasis on safety. A certain level of technical expertise is necessary to manage every

On track...

The DNR is reminding anglers that the inland game fish season is closing Sunday, March 2, on most of Wisconsin's inland waters. Panfish are still open year-round, and those seeking lakes and rivers still open to game fish should consult the Guide to Wisconsin Hook and Line Fishing Regulations. - Marty Seeger with information from the DNR ••• The early trout season is set to begin this Saturday, March 1, and will continue until Sunday, April 27, at midnight. The season is a catch and release only and the use of barbless hooks is required. - Marty Seeger with information from the DNR

aspect of prescribed fire, so Weihrouch advises landowners to contact their local NRCS office to discuss any prescribed fire planning.

A template for your prescribed fire plan can be found on the Wisconsin NRCS Web site www.wi.nrcs.usda.gov under Job Sheets, JS338. NRCS encourages the use the of qualified burn contractors for burn plan development, fire breaks and especially safe burn implementation. A list of contractors for your area and other useful information can be found at Wisconsin’s Prescribed Fire Council website at: http://www.prescribedfire.org .

More information on prescribed burn-

ing can be found on the Wisconsin NRCS website, under Jobsheets.

• Wisconsin Job Sheet 338 Prescribed Burn Plan ftp://ftpfc.sc.egov.usda.gov/WI/jobsheets/js338.pdf • Wisconsin Job Sheet 389 CRP MidManagement Practice - Prescribed Burning ftp://ftpfc.sc.egov.usda.gov/WI/jobsheets/js389.pdf • Wisconsin Job Sheet 133 Firebreaks ftp://ftp-fc.sc.egov.usda.gov/WI/jobsheets/js-133.pdf – submitted

Great Northern Outdoors Archery League Week 5

A League Deadnuts: Ben A. 290, Dustin G. 287, (30 points) Shockers: Chad L. 290, Jason C. 278 (26 points) Full Draw: Tony P. 266, Sheri B. 262 (22 points) Free Flight: Jeff B. 278, Sherri P. 230 (14 points) Stabilizers: Mark J. 258, Drew B. 241 (10 points) Spartanz: Brian S. 268, Nick R. 217 (6 points) The Kaws: Kyle J. 252, Andy W. 210 (0 points) B League Team MJ: Jeremy J. 288, Cory M. 249 (28

points) GNO: Ross W. 244, Erika W. 221 (24 points) Redneck Ind: Brent L. 289, Roy Z. 273 (24 points Gameslayers: Bill S. 253, Gino L. 166 (18 points) Razors Edge: Brad S. 255, Zach S. 146 (12 points) S & T: Tam H. 213, Steve K. 117 (8 points) Anuke: Luke K. 261, Dan G. 95 (6 points) Animal Lovers: Maddie B. 114, Laurel G. 108 (0 points) Spot Shooters, 300 game Pat J. 272

Butch’s Northwest Archery Bow Hunting League Week 7

Bowhunter’s League Traditional Peterson Construction: 355 Earth Energy Systems: 319 Shell Lake Pharmacy: 304 Wishful Thinking: 300 Butch’s Traditional Archery: 275 Timberland Archery: – Men’s Shell Lake State Bank: 581 Knoop Construction: 579 A&H Taxidermy: 563

White Birch Printing: 554 Webster Auto Sales: 520 Northview Drive Inn: 516 Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church: 493 Right in the Middle: 473 Little Lambs Preschool: 418 Big Mike’s Sports Shop: 411 Men/Women A&H Taxidermy (2): 480 Women's Chicog Pub: 471 Youth Cloverleaf: 414

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 33

Republicans for Obama Mama!

Don’t tell mama, I voted for Obama.

Actually I did tell my Republican mama I voted for Barack Obama in our open primary last week.

After she passed out and came to, she coldly replied, “Whatever.”

I expect a cool reaction from other loved ones in the Grand Old Party. The obvious question for the mystified is: Why did I vote for Obama?

The moon I want to go to the moon. Once again, I want us to look up and believe we can do something fantastic: build a colony on the moon, stop malaria in Africa, defeat terrorism. I want us to do something superhuman—again.

In the spring of 1961, President Kennedy planted a dream in America: We could safely land on the moon before the end of the decade. Impossible! This is beyond imagination. It can’t be done.

But JFK asked us to believe it could be done, and we trusted him. We rolled out our imagination, took out our slide rules and for eight years built the impossible.

Then on a Sunday evening in the summer of 1969 it was done. Commander Neil Armstrong took a small step off the Apollo 11 spacecraft, and mankind touched the face of the moon.

I was a young believer then. I want to be an old believer now. And I believe President Obama can take us to a great place again, on Earth and beyond the moon.

Change and Hope Sen. Obama is reaching out to Blue Dog Democrats, conservative Independents and moderate Republicans. He truly offers us the electrifying possibility of “change” and “hope.” I too want change and hope, and thus did cast my vote.

To the still mystified, let me be more clear what I did. I voted for Barack Obama; I did not vote against John McCain, whom I admire deeply and was proud to join in Iraq. I voted for something, not against something. I am not going back to being a Democrat; I am moving forward as an Obama Republican.

It was not that long ago that the roles were reversed.

A “Republicans for Obama” button purchased on Obama’s Web site.

Wayne M. Anderson

The Anderson Report Reagan Democrats In 1979, Ronald Reagan reached out Sen. John McCain last year in Iraq at the Fourth of July re-enlistment, new citto Democrats and izen swearing-in ceremony. – Photo by Wayne Anderson asked them to believe in America again. He asked us to again believe America was Hillary 57 to 52. He also took Wisconsin overall. that “shining city on a hill.” He offered change and Touchdown!

Beyond white, black and pink, I know conservahope. Reagan Democrats trusted and voted for him. tives have a long list of concerns about Obama. I Reagan and Obama don’t ask us to be what we are won’t bore you to death addressing them all, but I not, only to be what we can. And so we join forces as touch three. will Reagan Democrats and Obama Republicans.

“He is above partisanship,” said Zach Brandon, a leader in Obama Team Wisconsin and a Madison A list of 3 • He’s liberal. Yes he is liberal, voted “most” liberalderman. “The growing sentiment is we need to al in the senate. But I do not fear this, as the unite and work together to move the country forAmerican people will not stand for extremism. ward.”

Recall President Bill Clinton. In his first year he And that includes Republicans or “Obama-cans” charged forth with big liberal policies, where govas we are affectionately known in his 7th District. ernment was going to save us all from ourselves.

The next year the voters threw out the liberals in First black president We’re coming together politically and even racial- Congress. And for the remaining years, a Democrat ly. A President Obama will be the first black presi- president and a Republican congress worked OK for dent. Technically half black, but it’s still a touch- America.

• The Supreme Court. Two liberal justices down.

(Stevens and Ginsburg) are expected to retire if It is good for our country to win on this point. It is a Democrat president, and he will appoint there’s important for all Americans to see another part of liberals to replace them.

But the Court’s composition the dream achieved. And by seeing one do it, all can will remain 5 to 4, a conservative majority. see they can do it.

• Iraq. Obama said he will bring the troops home.

“I didn’t think the country was ready to embrace a And that’s in progress now. (See my column Jan. 9.) black man,” said Gebel Anderson. “But it looks like Obama wants a “sensible and honorable end to the the country is ready.”

Some of you remember my nephew, Gebel. He, war in Iraq,” said Alderman Brandon. I too am conlike Obama, is an interracial man born of a white fident President Obama will not cut and run, abandon the Iraqi people and disregard the lives lost for mother and African-American father. freedom there. Making campaign pull-out speeches Gebel, now a 35-year-old schoolteacher in California and a registered Democrat in America, is quite different than being the commander-insaid Barack is “serving as a bridge between the chief. Recall President Nixon and Vietnam. whites and blacks.”

He’s right. This color-blind reality is being seen in The moon and stars In the primary I voted for something, not against the most faraway places in the country—even in something.

I hope to do the same on Nov. 4. I voted West Sweden. as a bipartisan American, for what I believe our country needs at this time.

White, black and pink I believe Obama can deliver and take us to the People around the country were worried if white moon—and beyond the stars. people would vote for a black person. And so the ••• nation turned its eyes to tiny West Sweden townYou can tell Wayne or mama about Obama at ship, where the residents are beyond white—we’re pink. White people are those with a tan around here. wayneanderson@centurytel.net or visit his web site: In our diverse township, black Barack beat white www.theandersonreport.com.

First report on bees shows trouble NORTHWEST WISCONSIN—The year’s first news on the condition of bees is not good.

Initial reports from members at the Polk-Burnett County Bee Association reveal heavy losses in over-winter bee colonies.

Testimony from the standing-roomonly crowd, in the Polk County Government Center, told of large losses to complete colony devastation. The exact cause of death is uncertain, though starvation and several winter cold snaps are contributing factors.

In January, state officials, researchers and commercial beekeepers were joined by other experts in Sacramento, Calif., to exchange data and discuss the ongoing problem of Colony Collapse Disorder, a malady that is decimating bee colonies nationwide and in various parts of the world.

To date there is no report of CCD in Wisconsin, said Dr. Gordon Waller, a Wisconsin state bee inspector.

However, last year a killing virus called

Members of the Polk-Burnett County Bee Association enjoy refreshments after their first meeting of 2008. The first report of the year on bee population reveals heavy to total losses during winter. – Photo by Wayne Anderson

Israeli acute paralysis virus, that is strongly correlated with CCD, was discovered in St. Croix County.

Elizabeth Meils, state apiarist, said this discovery was the first-known case of IAPV in Wisconsin. She said Wisconsin is participating in a nationwide, fact-finding study with Pennsylvania State University on the cause of IAPV. Bees are crucial in the production of agriculture products that rely on pollination. Several commercial beekeepers in Wisconsin transport their bees to other states for pollination. The loss or reduction of the bee population would seriously effect Wisconsin’s economy.

To help ensure healthy bee colonies in Wisconsin’s northwest area, Dr. Waller will conduct tests in apiaries on May 15.

For more information on bees and local beekeeping call 715-327-5525. – TheAndersonReport.com (Wayne Anderson)

PAGE 34 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Burnett County sheriff’s report Accidents Village of Grantsburg, Feb. 18: Joan C. Quimby, 51, Grantsburg, slid through the snow-covered and slippery intersection of east St. George Avenue and south Pine Street, into the path of Loren P. Van Watermeulen, 43, Grantsburg.

No injuries were reported and moderate damage to both vehicles. No citations were issued.

Town of Swiss, Feb. 18: Richard L. Peterson, 63, Webster, was driving a tractor and trailer with a snow-trail groomer on the trailer, northbound on Hwy. 35, in a snowstorm. The red taillights on the trailer were not on, but the

groomer was faced backwards with the white lights on.

Edward S. Wagner, 36, Pine City, Minn., was driving a tractor trailer northbound on Hwy. 35.

He observed the white lights of the groomer and applied brakes, but was unable to avoid colliding with the slow moving tractor.

The groomer was damaged. No citations were issued.

Town of Oakland, Feb. 19: Robin A. Dearbin, 46, Webster, was westbound on CTH A when she swerved to miss a deer negotiating a curve. She left the roadway, hit a snow embankment and clipped a tree.

Injuries were reported and the vehicle was very severely dam-

aged.

Town of Daniels, Feb. 19: Susanne M. Beesley, 53, Webster, was westbound on Hwy. 70. She passed a Burnett County Highway Department plow truck and lost control on the icy road.

Kelsey E. Gustafson, 38, Webster, was driving the plow truck and slowed to almost a stop on the shoulder of the highway after the Beesley vehicle lost control.

It was not enough to avoid an accident, however. The Beesley vehicle slid into the truck. There were no reported injuries and very minor damage reported to the Beesley vehicle.

Town of Siren, Feb. 22: Irene

Burnett County criminal court Larry D. Holter, 60, Danbury, OWI, $793.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked eight months.

Mark S. Patraw, 41, New Richmond, inattentive driving, $375.00.

Diane L. Baker, 48, Siren, OWI, $730.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked seven months.

Jeromy M. Lambert, 23, Webster, bail jumping, one-year probation, alcohol assessment, $88.00.

Scott G. Buskirk, 27, Danbury, operate without valid license, $224.00.

JaNeen M. Mosay, 38, Webster, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Jowanie A. Rodriguez, 27, APO, AP., operate vehicle without owner’s consent, $249.00.

Ronald A. Hess, 25, New Richmond, failure to support a child, three-year probation, must pay child support as ordered, $165.00; failure to support a child, three-year probation, $266.00.

Shawn Fohrenkamm, 31, Siren, disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Randy J. Hunt, 53, Danbury, disorderly conduct, one-year probation, must complete anger management or domestic abuse program, $163.00.

Amber L. Skinaway, 21, Siren, disorderly conduct, 18month probation, must pay costs within nine months, $88.00; resisting or obstructing officer, 18-month probation, must pay costs within nine months, no consumption of alcohol, alcohol assessment, $88.00.

Stephen J. Christner, 46, Spooner, disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Randy D. Wickman, 46, Danbury, disorderly conduct, six-day jail sentence, $88.00.

Ellen M. Hass, 41, Webster, criminal trespass to dwelling, $249.00.

Danielle M. Reynolds, 22, Menomonie, possess drug paraphernalia, $249.00.

Spencer T. Holden, 35, River Falls, possession of THC, six-

Burnett Co. deaths Edna M. Robinson, Jackson, Feb. 11.

83,

Duane Sandberg, 84, Wood River, Feb. 13.

month jail sentence, Huber release granted, license suspended for six months, $88.00; nonregistration of auto, $346.80.

Darlene M. Matrious, 50, Danbury, OWI, $1,020.00, alcohol assessment, 20-day jail sentence, Huber release granted, license revoked 16 months.

Ronald J. Bearhart, 27, Danbury, OWI, $1,967.00, alcohol assessment, 80-day jail sentence, Huber release granted, license revoked 27 months.

Christopher A. Staples, 21, Webster, battery, one-year probation, participate in domestic abuse program or other counseling, alcohol assessment, $88.00.

T and T Transport Inc., Danbury, violate class A Highway weight limits, $1,298.20.

Steven A. Hatcher, 58, Grantsburg, violate mandatory seat belt requirement, $198.60.

Michael K. Kurkowski, 18, Webster, inattentive driving, $113.00.

Mark M. Stauffer, 31, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $501.00; OWI with passenger under 16 years old, $667.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked six months.

Tonie M. John, 60, Stacy, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

William A. Fish, 43, Webster, speeding, $160.80.

Joshua J. Alden, 27, Grantsburg, speeding, $186.00.

Craig A. Burmeister, 29, Webster, PAC .10 or more, $665.50, alcohol assessment, license revoked six months.

D. Johnson, 73, Siren, was northbound on Hwy. 70 when she slowed abruptly to turn into a driveway. Micah D. Flodin, 20, Siren, was behind the Johnson vehicle and was unable to stop in time and rearended her. One injury was reported. No citations were issued to either driver.

Arrests Town of Swiss, Feb. 22: Delbert G. Benjamin, 23, Anoka, Minn., was cited for domestic battery.

Town of Oakland, Feb. 24: Jon D. Songetay, 20, Danbury, bit another man’s nose at a birthday party. He was arrested and charged with mayhem, dis-

orderly conduct, probation violation, underage drinking and battery.

Other incidents Town of La Follette, Feb. 22: Claire E. Simonson, Siren, reported the residence owned

by Sandra Taylor, St. Paul, Minn., had its door busted in and the place entered. So far, a wooden box holding a collection of kitchen knives is reported missing. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Siren, Feb. 22: Larry J. Leef, Siren, reported a door leading to a garage kicked in.

Nothing appears to be missing.

The incident is under investigation.

Town of Meenon, Feb. 22: Daniel L. Edelman, Webster, reported a chain saw, muzzleloader and bow taken from his cabin. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Webb Lake, Feb. 23: Bradley M. Lamont, Webb Lake, reported a garage door damaged at a rental property. The current renter is not a suspect at this time. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Daniels, Feb. 24: Wallace E. Early, Siren, reported an ATV taken from the end of his driveway. The incident is under investigation.

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents Feb. 8, 4:06 a.m., Sterling Twp., 250th Avenue, .15 mile east of River Road, JERRY L. CHRISTENSEN, 44, St. Croix Falls, was eastbound on 250th Avenue. The vehicle crossed the center of the road and went into the ditch on the north side of 250th Avenue and struck a tree head on. Driver sustained a minor injury (no EMS/unknown use of safety equipment). Driver cited for failure to notify police of an accident.

Feb. 13, 9:27 p.m., Beaver Twp., CTH T at 180th Avenue; #1—SYLVESTER G. KRAEMER, 81, Turtle Lake; #2—DELBERT A. TODD, 54, Turtle Lake. Unit 1 was southbound on CTH T, crossed the center line, rear end slid to the east and struck unit 2, which was northbound on CTH T. Feb. 14, 1:28 a.m., Lorain Twp., 25th Street at 360th Avenue, DARRYL R. MOOSE, 41, Webster, was northbound on 25th Street when the driver failed to negotiate the turn in the road at 360th Avenue. The vehicle continued northbound off of 25th Street into the ditch and came to rest in some shrubbery north of the intersection. Driver was cited for OMVWI. His passenger, BRATON G. CHURCHILL, 61, Hertel, received injuries (no safety equipment worn/transported by EMS).

Feb. 14, 11:30 a.m., Clayton

Twp., Hwy. 63 at 1145 Hwy. 63; #1—ANGEL L. FRANK, 28, Amery; #2—Legally Parked vehicle owned by MARCO A. HERNANDEZ, RR Clayton. A noncontact vehicle was stopped, signaling to make a left turn. Unit 1 swerved to the left to miss the noncontact vehicle.

Unit 1 collided with unit 2, which was unoccupied and parked in the driveway of 1145 Hwy. 63.

Driver FRANK was cited for following too closely.

Feb. 15, 11:30 p.m., Clear Lake Twp., CTH A/30th Ave., .1 mile west of 10th Street, DANIEL N. JOHNSON, 51, Clear Lake, was negotiating a left-hand curve on CTH A, traveling westbound. The road was reported by the driver to be slippery. As he was cornering, the vehicle struck a slippery spot.

Unit 1 went straight off the road.

Upon entering the ditch, unit 1 struck a corner sign, causing damage to the vehicle and the sign. This subject then left the scene and reported the crash after having his car removed.

Driver cited for failure to notify police of an accident.

Feb. 16, 8:45 a.m., Frederic Village, Oak Street North at Traffic Avenue North, ROBERT L. JOHNSON, 44, Webster, had been westbound on Oak Street North and made a U-turn by making a left turn into Traffic Avenue North. Unit 1, which was towing a small snowmobile trailer, then made a right turn

Real Estate

back onto Oak Street North.

The trailer jumped the curb and struck a light pole, knocking it down on the sidewalk.

Feb. 16, 9:54 p.m., Lorain Twp., CTH E, .25 mile east of 65th Street, JESSICA A. OWENS, 17, Frederic, was traveling eastbound on CTH E. At approximately 65th Street and CTH E the road had drifted with snow. There was approximately six inches of snow on the road. Unit 1 driver lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle slid into the south ditch and rolled.

Driver cited for driving too fast for conditions.

Feb. 18, 4:57 p.m., Garfield Twp., 180th Street, .2 mile south of CTH F, ASHLIE M. LEMBKE, 16, Dresser, was traveling northbound on 180th Street.

According to the driver, she was going too fast when she met a snowdrift and lost control of her vehicle. The vehicle left the road and overturned one full revolution, ending on its tires.

There were no injuries, but because of her age an ambulance was called.

Feb. 18, 9:32 p.m., Eureka Twp., Hwy. 87, .81 mile north of CTH I/180th Avenue, DANIEL E. LARSON, 23, Osceola, was southbound on Hwy. 87 when he hit a slippery spot on the roadway. Driver lost control of the vehicle, which entered the east ditch. The vehicle tipped onto its passenger side and then back onto its wheels.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 35

Burnett County warrants Dennis J. Beaupre, 45, Dresser, commitment, Feb. 22.

Chasity A. Benjamin, 20, Sandstone, Minn., commitment, Feb. 22.

Christopher L. Bronson, 28, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, Feb. 22.

Linda S. Buechner, 44, Mora, Minn., commitment, Feb.

Burnett Co. civil court Unifund CCR Partners vs.

Tina M. Erickson, Siren, $4,487.72.

Gary L. Kaefer, DDS, vs.

Jennett Wehrhan, Grantsburg, $1,733.55.

Capital One Bank vs. Mary Surdey, Grantsburg, $1,297.78.

Hanson Jones LLC vs.

Amanda McKinney, Grantsburg, $1,637.00.

Webster municipal court Gary A. Artz, Webster, OAS, $109.00 and a warrant was issued.

Amber Berglind, Siren, underage consumption, $172.00 and a warrant was issued.

Nicholas J. Bremer, Webster, theft, not guilty plea.

James P. Burton, Siren, operating ATV without valid registration, not guilty plea.

Eyre J. DeMarre, Webster, disturbing the peace, not guilty plea.

Justin A. Elkins, Shell Lake, OAS, $109.00 and a warrant was issued.

Shannon L. Garbow, Danbury, DOC, $203.50 and a warrant was issued.

Michael S. Hatch, Eden Praire, Minn., seat belt violation, $83.80.

Matthew A. Holter, Danbury, speeding, $109.00.

Clinton A. Jones, Siren, battery, $266.50; DOC, $203.50; damage to property, $1,828.09; and warrants were issued.

James B. Kroplin, Webster, theft, $583.50.

Steven R. Lang, Webster, operating without valid driver’s license, $109.00; nonregistration, $83.80.

Luella M. Nehring, Siren, failure to stop at stop sign, $83.80.

James H. Ogary, Stacy, Minn., speeding, $109.00.

Melvin J. Olson, Webster, violation of child restraint, $83.80 and warrant was issued.

Thomas J. Polski, Danbury, DOC, $203.50.

John D. Polski, Webster, OAS, $109.00; illegal entry into lock box, $203.50 and warrants were issued.

John Shabaiash, Webster, theft-rental property, not guilty plea.

Colleen R. Smith, Spring Valley, worthless check, $281.50 and a warrant was issued.

Chelsie M. Staples, Webster, underage drinking, $172.00 and a warrant was issued.

Emily A. Sutton, Webster, DOC, $235.00 and a warrant was issued.

Rhonda J. Taylor, Webster, speeding, $134.20; OWI, $605.00; and warrants were issued.

Michelle R. Willis, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $83.80.

22.

Barbara J. Buskirk, 33, Danbury, arrest warrant – complaint, Feb. 21.

Andrew C. Goodwin, 38, Maricopa, Ariz., commitment, Feb. 22.

Tammy A. Hall, 43, Minneapolis, Minn., arrest warrant – complaint, Feb. 21.

Sharon A. Kelm, 59, Rice Lake, commitment, Feb. 22.

Mark E. Larson, 24, Siren, warrrant – failure to appear, Feb. 22.

Michael J. Pierre, 46, Luck, commitment, Feb. 22.

Mark D. Simonson, 23, Superior, commitment, Feb. 22.

Timothy M. Steele, 43, Balsam Lake, warrant – failure to appear, Feb. 22.

Gregory A. Taylor, 48, Hinckley, Minn., commitment,

Feb. 22.

Margarita L. Williams, 27, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, Feb. 22.

Richard A. Wylie, 18, Webb Lake, arrest warrant – complaint, Feb. 21.

PAGE 36 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Notices

Siren police report Feb. 18: The Siren officer on duty transported a female to Burnett County Jail after a fight at a Siren residence.

Feb. 19: The Siren officer assisted the Burnett County

Sheriff’s Department on a verbal domestic call starting at 11:15 p.m.

Feb. 10: A letter was sent to Justin A. Elkins, 19, Shell Lake, regarding movies not returned to Lightning Video. Elkins has until Feb. 29 to return the movies.

After that date, he will be charged with theft.

A letter went out to Jackie L. Pardun, 35, Danbury, regarding two DVDs from Siren Auto Stop that were out past the due date.

Pardun has until Feb. 29 to return the DVDs or be charged with theft.

Feb. 21: At 8:49 p.m., a vehicle driven by Brandon S. Hopkins,

Continued next page

Siren police/ from previous page 37, Webster, was stopped on South Shore Drive and Fourth Avenue. During the stop, Hopkins was cited for operating while intoxicated and driving with an open intoxicant. His passenger, 42year-old Patricia A. Hopkins, Webster, was cited for having an open intoxicant.

Feb. 22: Vincent Edward Hassel, 37, Johnston, Iowa, was cited at 5:11 p.m. in the Holiday parking lot for passing in a nopassing zone. Hassel had been spotted by an officer passing in a no-passing zone along Hwy. 70 at South Williams Road in the town of Wood River.

Feb. 23: Kimberly Clare Johnson, 24, Arden Hills, Minn., was cited for speeding during a traffic stop on Hwy. 35/70 and Johnson Street.

Feb. 24: At 12:50 p.m., the Siren officer investigated a battery complaint at a Siren residence.

At 4:49 p.m., Angela May Eigenheer, 30, Lindstrom, Minn., was cited for speeding on Hwy. 35 and Clear Lake Street.

Notices / Employment

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 37

PAGE 38 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Notices

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 39

Fundraiser to send local WWII Vets to D.C. Memorial Date of trip is Veterans Day 2008

by Tammi Milberg BALSAM LAKE–Unity kindergarten teacher Gina Sarow has been leading a project to help local World War II veterans take a trip to Washington, D.C., to see their memorial.

The goal is to have them visit the War War II Memorial on Veterans Day 2008.

Partners in this project include the United VFW Post 6856 and auxiliary, the Geo. W. Melby Post 254 American Legion, the Ellis F. Hagler Post 278 American Legion, the Adolph Timm Post 346 American Legion and the Amherst I Hanson Post 143 American Legion.

“I am involved because my dad was a WWII veteran, and he would have loved to go. However he died before they built it, so basically I am doing this in memory of my dad,” Sarow stated.

Children from K4 through fourth grade brought in money from January to February. They made $800 doing this She asked the VFW United Post 6856 and the American Legion Geo. W. community activity. The gentlemen in the back row (L to R) are: Jerry Wonka, Mike Peterson from Milltown’s Melby Post 354 if they were interested American Legion, Jim Milligan from Centuria’s American Legion, Carl Holmgren, Al Kastens, Max Littlefield and Jim in doing this. “I told them I would help Carlson from VFW United Post 6856. The elementary children shown (L to R) are: Lydia Milberg, Kevin Paulson, Karlie them raise money. They were very excit- Manning, Dakota Bratland and Natalie Albrecht. ed sending their veterans, so I did the research, and now we are where we are today. We want them to go because this is their memorial, and they deserve to visit their memorial.”

Fundraisers have taken place and are planned that will allow WWII veterans or their spouse to go at no cost by coach bus. Donations will be accepted until Nov. 9, when the group leaves.

“So far, we have 16 WWII veterans going,” Sarow reported. “We would like to fill the bus or if necessary take two buses. Since January, we have raised $2,000. We need to raise $17, 000 ($732 per person). The trip includes the bus trip, food, lodging, tours through the memorials and insurance.”

Sarow is looking for 10 volunteers to ride with the veterans on the trip providing wheelchair assistance and helping veterans have a safe and rewarding experience. A doctor and nurse will also be aboard the bus to accompany the veterans on their trip.

Students in 4K through fourth grade collected change for the fundraiser by passing out flyers that said “Give your Paula Hermansen and Dawn Perkins, representing the Unity staff including all the teachers, administration, educaChange to those that Changed the tional assistants, bus drivers, cooks, secretaries and custodians, donated $1,105. – Photos submitted World!”

Those students raised $800 in the promised each class one day of extra recess. This goal will be met if 250 stumonths of January and February.

Unity staff donated $1,105 to the dents each get $35 in pledges through cause as well, and more fundraisers are sponsors like family, friends, businesses being planned until September. The who will pay for 15-20 laps. Other next fundraiser to be on the lookout for incentives for the students to reach this goal besides extra recess include a is homemade cookies.

Sheila Berklund, a part-time clerk at swimming party for students who raise the Siren Post Office, is baking cookies $50 or more individually; a pizza party to sell to help. For the previous five for the class that raises the most money; years, Berklund has baked cookies to a Visa gift card for the top three overall raise money for the Burnett County collectors in the amounts of $50, $25 and Relay for Life. Last year she made 605 $25; and 15 FUN bag raffle prizes. Each dozen cookies, giving $3,000 to cancer time a student raises $10, they will get a research. This year, she is baking for ticket for the raffle, and the more money Sarow’s project. She has no goal set. they raise, the more chances to put their “I’ll make as many as I can,” she said. name in the raffle drawing.

Unity FFA is also raising money, and “I just need to know how many you want and what kind, and I will try to the middle school is raising money in get your cookies to you within a day or the form of a fundraiser from March until May. Canisters are placed in area two.” Berklund lives in Luck.

Berklund will give a dozen freshly businesses for donation drop-offs and baked cookies for a minimum $5 dona- the VFW Post 6856 and auxiliary are tion. She has an e-mail and phone num- also holding fundraisers. The Unity ber so persons interested can contact Student Council is collecting Box Tops her and put in their order. The cookie and Milk Tops.

A special send-off and final fundraisvarieties are: chocolate chip, chocolate peppermint crunch, coconut, mint chip, er is planned for September with a big molasses, oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, band concert with dancing and hors peanut butter chocolate chip and triple d’oeuvres.

Anyone with questions or wanting to chocolate chip. Berklund’s contacts are: (phone) 715-472-8356, (e-mail) donate can contact Sarow after 5 p.m. at 715-857-5833, or visit the Unity Web site brklnd@lakeland.ws.

Everyone at Unity Schools is on board at www.unity.k12.wi.us. doing their part and contributing to the cause as well. Unity teacher Kris Radke is raising money by having a mileage club walkathon with a goal of $8,000. If students reach the goal, Radke has

PAGE 40 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Maude Robinson turns 100 ST. CROIX FALLS - Family and friends of Maude Robinson gathered on her 100th birthday, Feb. 17, 2008, at the Good Samaritan home in St. Croix Falls.

Kandi Gerding and Mary Beth Ronza helped their grandmother, Maude Robinson, celebrate her 100th birthday. — Photos by Gary King

Maude was in good spirits for the gathering which included relatives from around the country and reunited all of her grandchildren for the first time in 12 years.

Her life began in Neillsville in 1908, and she has lived in Wisconsin most of her life, with the exception of an nine-year period in Missouri. She married her husband, Ed, on Nov. 22, 1929, and they lived at White Lake where their daughter Pat (Gursky) was born. In 1931, they moved to Neillsville where their other three children – Harold, Mary and David – were born.

In 1937, the family moved to Milltown where they lived until 1956 when they moved to Carthage, Mo., where they operated an A & W Root Beer stand.

In 1957 the Robinsons moved to Hannibal, Mo., and ran an A & W there.

In 1963, Ed died, and in the fall of 1965 Maude moved to Milltown where she lived until moving to Good Sam in 1995.

Maude held various jobs over the year – as a housekeeper, photo finisher, egg candler, waitress, cook, candy maker, hardware and grocery store clerk and root beer stand operator.

Grandchildren of Maude Robinson gathered for her 100th birthday, Feb. 17, at St. Croix Falls. Shown (L to R), back row: Ed Gursky, Mathew Robinson, Alan Gursky, Ken Gursky, Kurt Robinson, Kevin Robinson, John Robinson and Mark Robinson. Front row: Clair Dahly, Kandi Gerding, Maude Robinson, Mary Beth Ronz and Karen Price.

Maude Robinson waves for the cameras during her 100th birthday celebration Feb. 17 at the Good Samaritan Center in St. Croix Falls, where she resides.

Maude Robinson’s children, Pat Gursky, Mary Gursky and David Robinson, pose with their mother on her 100th birthday. Son Harold died Oct. 31, 2006.

Blue and Gold Banquet honors area Scouts

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER – Cub Scout pack 564 from Siren and Webster capped off a successful year with their annual blue and gold banquet, on Friday, Feb. 22, at the Webster community center. The pack has grown over the last few years, from 15 boys three years ago, to 47 boys this year. As a result, the community center

was full to see around 700 awards passed out to the Scouts. This is the night that the Scouts advance to the next level of scouting. Four second-year webelos crossed over into Boy Scouts towards the end of the night. .

Now that this Scout year is complete the leaders are planning for next year.

The pack is always looking for more

Second-year webelos that crossed over to Boy Scouts on Friday, Feb. 22, were (L to R) Andrew Schrooten, Nathaneal Gatten, Alec Gustafson and Zachary Koelz. Standing to the far right is webelo den leader and Pack 564 den master Charla Stickland. — Photos By Sherill Summer

First-year Webelo Max Norman shows off the woodworking projects he made for his parents (back) and the wooden box he received from his den leader and den master, Charla Stickland, (front). Stickland donated all the wood needed for each webelo to make something for each parent.

boys between the first and fourth grades interested in joining Scouts, especially from Siren. Currently there are two dens that meet in Siren, and the Scout leaders are hoping to add more Siren dens next year. The leaders are also hoping to form a fundraising and pack committee to help plan activities now that the number of Scouts has increased.

Cub master Stickland is pumped up about her pack’s accomplishments, but she is not taking all of the credit. She explains that all of the leaders have been a great help over the year. They all step forward to get things done, and they all work well together. They attend leader meetings and get involved. “I can’t say enough about the leaders we have.

They’re awesome.” As a result of awesome leaders, Stickland believes that the

kids are getting more out of Scouts.

For more information on Cub Scout pack 564, contact Stickland at 866-4162.

Missy Preston (left) thanked Pack 564 den master Charla Stickland (right) for everything she has done for the Scouts this past year.

‘Follow the Leader’

Currents N O R T H E R N

F ebr uar y 27, 20 08 2nd Se ct io n B Int e r-C o unty Lead er

News and views from the Northwest Wisconsin community

A letter for Logan

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG - There among the school mementos and photos lay the handprinted letters from classmates. One letter stood out, perhaps because in its innocence it expressed better than any words the sentiments of those coming to mourn little Logan’s death. Reading the letter brought tears to my eyes as it did the many others reading the words: Dear Logan, I hope you like your new home.

There is no making sense of a young child’s death. Whether as an adult or child it is difficult to understand. Adults have a hard time coming to grips with the reality, but what is even more difficult is explaining to children what has happened.

Logan Taylor Louis wanted to be a fireman when he grew up. He loved eating chips, his favorite food along with macaroni and cheese, pancakes and hot dogs.

He liked playing on the computer with his best buddy, his brother Walker. Just as any 6-year-old, Logan loved to laugh and have fun.

In those six short years of life I think his family, teachers and classmates would tell you Logan made an impression on all who came to know him. His spirit touched many people.

Though I didn’t know him long, Logan made an impression on me. Logan and his brother Walker were students in my after-school reading class. I remember when I would look over to see Walker helping his little brother on the computer. Logan would be smiling and laughing, and he’d make me smile and laugh. I can still see him coming down the school hallway smiling, and just seeing that big smile of his made me feel good. That’s the kind of kid he was, the kind that made others feel good when they saw him coming.

Last week Logan died of a yet undetermined illness. Family, teachers, friends and classmates came to say goodbye and share memories at his memorial service.

Logan’s parents, Stacie and Corey,

Letters from Logan Louis’ friends and classmates were displayed at his memorial service last Saturday including this one which brought tears to all those reading it. The six year-old Grantsburg and Clear Lake first grader died suddenly last week after an illness.

Logan Louis thanked everyone for their prayers, love and support. And as they held tightly to those offering hugs, they held tightly, too, to precious memories of their son, Logan.

Adults came in shock, disbelief and sorrow. Logan’s classmates came, too, and while not fully understanding what had happened to their friend, they came with something you could only expect from children. Logan’s friends came with hope. Hope that Logan likes his new home and is happy as the letter made so clear.

At a time like this when adults can sometimes lose hope, we can look to the children for strength, and we can draw from their unique ability to continue to hope.

The poet William Wordsworth once wrote, “We will grieve not, rather find strength in what remains behind. . . In the soothing thoughts that spring from human suffering. In the hope that looks through death. . .”

In the innocent faces and thoughts of children we can find hope, hope for Logan’s parents and family as they mourn the loss of their son, a beautiful and spirited young boy. And in hope so found we will keep Logan in our hearts forever.

Memorials for Logan may be sent to: Corey and Stacie Louis, 192 50th St., Clear Lake, WI 54005.

Note: The author is a staff member at Grantsburg Elementary School.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Logan’s big brother and best buddy, Walker and Logan having some computer fun at Grantsburg Elementary. Walker and Logan at computer.

The Burnett Bulldogs Youth Wrestling Club set up a memorial and donation box for Logan Louis and his family at the club’s wrestling tournament last Saturday.

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

“Charlotte’s Web” on stage starting March 6 ST. CROIX FALLS – Festival Theatre has been teeming with community actors since mid-January when over 70 children and adults came out to audition for the upcoming production of “Charlotte’s Web.” The cast is made up of 33 youth from 14 communities in the St. Croix River Valley and three adults, including professional guest artist, Katie Novalany in the role of Charlotte.

“We’re really proud of this cast,” says Amy Klein, arts education director at Festival Theatre. “They’ve worked hard, learned a lot, and made a bunch of new friends. They are going to have a great time sharing this story with the community.”

While E.B. White’s beautiful novel has been adapted for film, cartoons, television, audio books and several versions for the stage, Festival Theatre’s production begins with an adaptation by Joseph Robinette and places a unique local spin on the telling of the tale. The play will be performed in two acts and adults will surely enjoy the show as much as children.

Starring in the role of Wilbur are three young men who help depict the young pig’s growth from being the runt of the litter to prizewinner at the county fair.

Jasper Herman of Taylors Falls, Henry Klein and Garrett Kerkow of St. Croix Falls earned the porcine privilege of playing Wilbur. Fern, the young girl who initially saves Wilbur from an early death, is played by Molly Markow of Clear Lake. Some other memorable char-

Full Cast of “Charlotte’s Web” has fun during a warm-up activity at Festival Theatre. – Photos submitted acters are Templeton (Maddie Sullivan, Cushing), the Geese (Jessica Johnson, North Branch, and Amanda Schulze, Milltown) and Avery (Sam Burnoski, North Branch).

The rest of the cast are: Leah Dix from Amery; Ali Saueressig from Center City; Noah Neault from Centuria; Rod Bunker from Cushing; Tanner Burch and Anja Erickson from Dresser; Candace Buck and Mya Rivera from Frederic; Esther

Cast members from the northern Polk County area include Front row: Mya Rivera and Candace Buck; Back row: Amanda Schulze and Noah Neault.

Dronen, Nikki Kahlmorgan, and Kristen Smith from Lindstrom; Mikayla Johnson and Abigail Johnson from North Branch; Tyler Bushweiler and Emily Ranier from Osceola; Dio Aluni, Haley Appel, Alaina Driscoll, Madison Eighmy, Emily Kessler, Anna Klein, Grace Klein, Sophie Klein, Emma Tretsven and Emma Wondra from St. Croix Falls; Lexie Ferguson from Stacy; and Taylor Tolzman from Taylors Falls. “Charlotte’s Web” is di-

Cast members include a group of homeschooled youth include (clockwise from front): Kristen Smith, Dio Aluni, Emily Milner and Lexie Ferguson.

rected by Jeanette Abdo of Lakeland Shores, Minn., and she is assisted by Emily Milner from St. Croix Falls.

Festival Theatre’s Youth & Family Theatre program offers theatre arts training within the process of producing a play and has funding support from Polk Burnett Project Round-Up, Wal-Mart, the Margaret Rivers Fund, the Hugh J. Andersen Foundation, the Andersen Foundation, the Xcel Energy Foundation, and private donations.

Public performances of “Charlotte’s Web” begin Thursday, March 6, with a 2 p.m. matinee. Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday with a final matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 9. Single tickets are $12.50 for adults and $7.50 for youth. A limited number of matinees are available to school groups for field trips and reward days. A curriculum resource packet has been developed by the Arts Education department at Festival Theatre – the focus is character education. To learn more about opportunities for school groups, call Amy Klein at 715483-3387 or check the Web site listed below.

Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls at 210 North Washington Street. To reach Festival Theatre by phone, call 715-483-3387 or 888-8876002. You may also send an e-mail to boxoffice@festivaltheatre.org or check the Web site at www.festivaltheatre.org.

– from Festival Theatre

Cast members from the St. Croix Falls area include first row: Haley Appel and Grace Klein; second row is Anna Klein, Alaina Driscoll, Madison Eighmy and Anja Erickson; back row: Tanner Burch, Emily Kessler and Sophie Klein.

Grantsburg Elementary Presidents Day program

Grantsburg second-grader Chris Hermann reads about the president he drew to classmates, parents and guests while his teacher, Mrs. Johnson, holds the microphone. Each student drew one or more presidents and during the class’ Presidents Day proStudents from Cindy Johnson’s second-grade class wore patriotic hats for the class’ Presidents Day gram then, one by one, held up their drawings and program held last Friday at the Grantsburg Elementary School. Front row (left to right): Chris Hermann, read a history of the man they had drawn. (The stuBrittanie Blume, Chandler VanderVelden, Mollie Kozak, Mikel Louis, Cole Reichstadt and Jacob Oiyotte dents’ presidents drawings were featured in last Back row: Joseph Ohnstad, Mackenna Johnson, Stratton McKinley, Josef Mackenburg, Danielle Erickweek’s Leader). – Photos submitted son, Kali Jones and Mrs. Johnson.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Shirley’s Cookies

by S. J. Christenson “Wait for me,” yelled 5-year-old Shirley. “I want to play on the ice too. I don’t want to go shopping with Mommy and Daddy.”

“Then hurry,” her brothers and sisters replied.

“I am,” she yelled.

Bundled in snow pants, boots, coat, scarf and mittens, she walked as fast as she could. Her steps were heavy, and she lagged behind. Tired, she plunked herself in the nearest snowdrift and began to cry. Her coat and pants were wet and covered with snow. She had snow in her boots. Her mittens were wet. Her fingers and toes were cold. And her braided hair had come loose. A tangled mess fell over her tear-streaked face.

What was she to do? Suddenly, she sat up straight. I have an idea she thought. I need a ribbon for my messy hair. Mrs. Bloom will have one for me.

Smiling through her tears, she stood, brushed her hair from her eyes and snow from her coat and pants.

Did she dare walk to Mrs. Bloom’s alone? She might get lost. Turning, she looked towards her house, then towards Mrs. Bloom’s house. Finally, she decided to visit Mrs. Bloom.

“These puffy cattails are in my way,” she said to herself as she began her journey. After a few steps a mouse scurried out of its hiding place. She watched it go under cover among the cattails.

When she came to a hollowed-out log, she stepped over it, frightening a fat white rabbit. It hopped a short way, stopped, turned and looked at her, its nose and whiskers wiggling. Then it turned and hopped to another shelter.

As she crossed a frozen brook, she heard a fluttering of wings. Her heart beat fast as she looked up and saw a big owl sitting in a tree watching her with its big owl

PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Gladys Frokjer at 483-3208 or Iris Holm 284-3174 for more information. - submitted

Writer’s Corner eyes. Its head turned this way and that and back again as it watched Shirley. She stared at the owl wondering what it would do. It just sat in the tree watching and waiting for something. She hoped the mouse was safe.

When the owl did nothing Shirley stomped her feet and waved her arms over her head and shouted, “Shoo!” The owl glared at her, but flew away. She felt proud of herself and continued her walk to Mrs. Bloom’s.

She came to a barbed-wire fence and knew she would have to carefully crawl under it so her coat and pants would not get torn. Once under the fence, she looked both ways before crossing the road.

Upon reaching the farmhouse, she tapped lightly on the door. Mrs. Bloom, a tall stately lady, opened it.

Shirley saw the look on Mrs. Bloom’s face and thought, I must be a mess.

“Well, who do I see here, and where have you been my dear girl?”

“Mrs. Bloom, you know me. I’m Shirley. I’ve been walking in the woods. Do you have a ribbon for my hair?”

“Oh, Shirley, I’m not sure. My boy, Johnny, doesn’t wear ribbons.” Shirley giggled thinking of a boy wearing a ribbon.

Mrs. Bloom said, “Come in and take off those wet clothes.” She helped Shirley take off her scarf, her mittens, her coat, her boots, and her snow pants, placing them in the kitchen hallway.

“You rest yourself at the table while I look for a ribbon.” she said.

Shirley’s eyes began to feel heavy as she sat in the warm and cozy kitchen, which smelled of freshly baked cookies. Soon Mrs. Bloom came into the kitchen with a bright-red ribbon. She brushed Shirley’s hair

from her eyes and tied the ribbon at the back of her neck.

“Would you like some milk and cookies?”

Shirley nodded and said, “Yes.” Mrs. Bloom placed a glass of milk in front of Shirley and one on the table for herself.

Mrs. Bloom took her yellow cookie jar from the top of the refrigerator and placed it on the counter.

Shirley watched closely as Mrs. Bloom took “S” shaped cookies from the cookie jar. Her eyes grew big as she recognized the “S” shaped letter, the first letter of her name. She glanced at Mrs. Bloom.

Mrs. Bloom smiled and said, “These are ‘Shirley’ cookies I baked this morning.” Shirley’s face grew into a big smile. She was surprised to learn a cookie was named for her.

Mrs. Bloom said, “These special cookies are Spritz cookies. From now on we’ll call them ‘Shirley’ cookies.”

While they enjoyed milk and “Shirley” cookies in the warm and cozy kitchen, Shirley told Mrs. Bloom about her adventure in the woods and Mrs. Bloom told Shirley how she made the “Shirley” cookies.

This is the recipe Mrs. Bloom used.

Spritz (“Spurted out of a press”) Preheat oven at 400 degrees 1 cup butter or margarine, softened 2/3 cup sugar 3 egg yolks 1 tsp, flavoring (vanilla or almond) 2-1/2 cups sifted flour Mix together thoroughly. Work in with the hands.

Force the dough through cookie press onto ungreased baking sheet to form the letter S. Bake until set, 7 to 10 minutes. Makes about 6 dozen cookies.

Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Each month we have a topic to write about and read to the group. The following writing was read at the last meeting. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-349-2761 for more information about the organization.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

Tobacco sales to Wisconsin youth at an all-time low POLK COUNTY – Illegal sales of tobacco to youth reached an all-time low in Wisconsin. Gov. Jim Doyle announced that the state’s 2007 Synar sales compliance survey, which determines the number of retail outlets that are selling tobacco illegally to minors, shows a noncompliance rate of 4.5 percent – the lowest rate ever recorded for Wisconsin.

Results from 2007 demonstrate significant improvement from the record noncompliance of 33.7 percent in 2001.

Polk County has seen a similar downward trend in illegal sales of tobacco.

Checks conducted by the Polk County Tobacco-Free Coalition through the WI

Wins program show a noncompliance rate of 4.8 percent for 2007, down from 8.13 percent in 2006.

“We all benefit when youth stay tobacco-free. Preventing youth access is part of a comprehensive community approach to preventing youth smoking,” said Jennifer Swenson, Polk County Tobacco Control Specialist. “The diligence on the part of local retailers to check identification and refuse sales to minors is appreciated. I don’t think that anyone in our community wants to see kids take up smoking.”

The annual Synar survey randomly selects retail outlets from across the state to

Cepia Club introduces artist CENTURIA - The Cepia Club’s Bizarre Bazaar in Centuria introduces Osceola artist Kurt Devine, on display now.

Devine, who studied art at UW-Milwaukee in the late 1970s, uses a precise hand to produce his original, “vi-brilliant”-colored lyrical abstract landscapes. A man of reserved humility, Kurt Devine orchestrates a creative sight in detail for his selection of nonsequitur line forms and anti-geometrical shapes, transposing color into waves of bright light with all the qualities of a banging nebula on paper, canvas and wood. The use of acrylic, watercolor and pen compose the unified mediums of his works now showing at Bizarre Bazaar Store located within The Cepia Club.

A club friend, Kurt Devine has added a major distinction to The Cepia Club LLC’s community arts and artist initiative. The Cepia Club/Bizarre Bazaar is

located on the main drag (Fourth Street), downtown Centuria, six miles east by north of St. Croix Falls on Hwy 35. “I think his artwork will be a valuable asset to the Bizarre Bazaar, and a contribution to the intrinsic value of culture in Centuria,” said store intern manager, Angie.

The Cepia Club promotes a culture of local community grounded in the people bonded by life experience to the land.

Such a connection, the club says, are the roots of neighborly fellowship with the past, present and future memory, all leading toward a goal of peace, unity, liberty and freedom for those who think and act in the greater interest of the whole.

For more on Kurt Devine’s works, visit www.cepiaclub.com, call the store at 715-646-9933, or visit during open hours 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. - submitted

determine a reliable estimate of the rate of illegal tobacco sales to minors. Named after the Congressman who sponsored the federal legislation, the Synar legislation requires all states to monitor and reduce the rate of illegal tobacco sales to minors at retail establishments.

The Wisconsin Wins program, which focuses on reducing youth access to tobacco, is part of the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services overall program to reduce youth smoking.

“Many things are coming together to reduce youth smoking in Wisconsin – the success of the WI Wins program, the cig-

arette tax, a funded tobacco prevention program, access to quitting help through the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line, and the proposed statewide smoke-free workplace law,” said Swenson. “When the community helps youth avoid tobacco, they have a much better chance of being a tobacco-free adult.”

For more information about the Synar report, please visit http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/tobacco, or if you are interested in tobacco control efforts in Wisconsin and the Polk County Tobacco-Free Coalition, contact Jennifer Swenson at Polk County Public Health, 485-8500. - submitted

John Klatt awarded national management achievement award POLK COUNTY – John Klatt of Lakeland Communications received the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association’s Management Achievement Award. John Klatt, president and CEO of Lakeland Communications Luck and Milltown, was awarded the management achievement award for his leadership and guidance in expanding the company to deliver a broad range of advanced communications services to his rural service area. Under Klatt’s direction, Lakeland added two CLEC territories and a cable TV system that serves six communities. Klatt is active in the advocacy arena as well, lending his voice to help to educate policy-makers on the national level in Washington, D.C., as well as at home in Wisconsin.

Klatt and his wife, Pam, reside in Luck with their children, Mitchell, Brady and

John Klatt received the National Telecommunications Cooperative Association’s Management Achievement Award.

Jillian, where they enjoy the rural area with its abundant outdoor activities. – submitted

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

Bass Lake School First- and secondgraders at Bass Lake School in 1921. Back row: Milton Westrom, Leslie Anderson, Raymond “Bob” Johnson and Lloyd Ecklund.

Front row: Willmette Anderson, Kathren Boysen, Violet Bonneville, Myrtle Thompson, Emmons Selander and Dora Biederman. - Photo courtesy of Myrtle Thompson

by Stanley Selin The Bass Lake School building was dedicated on May 11, 1939. Construction of the new brick building was started in 1936 and completed in the spring of 1939 at a cost of $16,000. It contained two large classrooms and a full basement. One of the classrooms had a stage which was used for various school functions, and also for entertainment during community gatherings. A. T. Nelson, local school principal, was master of ceremonies for the program. Talks were given by A. R. Page, state school supervisor, E. J. Adams, county school superintendent and V. E. Hawley of Grantsburg.

Music was provided by the Webster Midnight Syncopators, as well as piano and accordion selections by

Photo of the newly completed Bass Lake School building which was taken for its dedication on May 11, 1939. - From Grantsburg Journal

Monroe Peterson. Mrs George Olsen read the school history. The teachers at that time were Miss Helen Berglund for the first four grades, and Miss Dorothy Bennett of Webster for the four upper grades.

A history of the Bass Lake School was extracted from school records by Mrs. George Olsen of Grantsburg. Highlights of the history include organization of the school district known as district No. 2 at a meeting October 22, 1877. The first school was located in the southwest corner of the former John Wedell farm east of Bass Lake. At this time, the school term was for total of five months. The winter term of four months started the third Monday in October and the one-month summer session started the second Monday in May. The

first teacher was Mamie Diffenbacker who was hired for five months at $25 per month. A new school was built in 1882 on the southeast corner of the Charley Akerlind farm, which, in 1939, was owned by Ever Olson (along present day Hwy. 48). In 1884, the school was moved to the northwest corner of the district. Mrs. Charley Sunfors rented her home for this purpose.

During the years 1885 through 1887, the home of Ole Aistad just east of Mrs. Sunfors farm served as the school. In 1889, the school was moved to its present location on one acre of land purchased from P. A. Edlof for $12. An additional $6 was spent to clear the trees from the land. In 1889, a primary room was added, making it a two-room school.

Teachers who served the school through 1939 are listed as follows: Mamie Diffenbacker (1882), Mrs. A. N. Bugbee (1882), Olaf Olson (1882), John Broberg (1882), Mamie Diffenbacker(1883-84), Jennie Lindmark (1884), Erick Johnson (1886-87), Annie O’Neil (1888), William Asp (1889), O. T. Christenson (1890-91), Charles Asp (1892), Emma Brandt (1893), Anna Hake (1894-1898), Nettie Asp, Hortense Anderson (1898), Agnes Olsen, Anna Sjoblom (1904), Galena Johnson, Amy Nelson, Margaret Johnson, Marie Hult, C. H. Belmont, O. H. Caspers, Hazel Lindman, Mayme Miller, Hazel Miller, Anna Ryss, Mattie Moore, Margaret Ward, Elsie Melin, Clara Olson, Almeda Gustafson (1917), Ella Smith, Viola Lidbom, Amber Anderson, Dagmar Nelson, Miss Marsh, Alma Swenson, Violette Christopherson, La Vone Peterson, Dorothy Bennett (1939) and Helen Berglund (1939).

Bass Lake ball players about 1939. Back row: Allen Selander, Willis Westrom, Bob Lindberg and Herbert Anderson. Front row: Oliver Stotz, not identified, Bert Isaacson and John Isaacson. - Photo courtesy of Helen Carlson

Photo of the Bass Lake School building taken about 1917. - From Selin collection

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Quotable quotes

“The meaning of life is to give life meaning.” Ken Hudgins “Life is a great big canvas, you should throw all the paint on it that you can.” Danny Kay “Life is a lively process of becoming.” Douglas Macarthur “People do not change with the times, they change the times.” P.K. Shaw “Life is the music; it must be composed by ear, feeling and instinct, not by rule.” Samuel Butler “He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope has everything.” Arab Proverb “Do what you fear to become fearless.” Su Chuen Ng “Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean.” David Searls “Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we’re here we should dance. “ Unknown “If you are going to walk on thin ice, you might as well dance!” Anonymous “There is only one success – to be able to spend your life in your own way.” Christopher Morley “What you leave behind is not what is engraved on stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” Pericles “You only live once – but if you work it right, once is enough.” Joe E. Lewis “My life is my message.” Mahatma Gandhi “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising everytime we fall.” Confucius “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Unknown “Some days you’re the bug. Some days you’re the windshield.” Price Cobb “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” Albert Einstein “There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” Edith Wharton “Fear less, hope more; eat less, chew more; whine less, breathe more; talk less, say more; hate less, love more; and all good things are yours.” Swedish Proverb “A friend is a present you give yourself.” Robert Louis Stevenson “A friend is someone who can sing you the song of your heart when you’ve forgotten it.” Unknown “Friendship improves happiness, and abates misery, by doubling our joys, and dividing our grief.”

Joseph Addison “Celebrate the happiness that friends are always giving, make every day a holiday and celebrate just living!” Amanda Bradley (Note: The above was printed in the Feb. 2008 issue of the Polk County Senior Voices. You have already read some of them, but why should all the senior citizens be the only ones to enjoy them. They are funny!)

thing at home, but for nothing away from it.”

Terence (Roman writer): “Women are intellectually like children.”

Jewish daily prayer: “Thank God I am not a woman.”

First Epistle to Timothy: “But I suffer not a woman to teach, Bernice nor to usurp authority over the Abrahamzon man, but to be in silence.”

Alexander Pope (18th century): “Most women have no characters at all.”

Samuel Butler: “The souls of women are so small that some believe they’ve none at all.”

Dr. Gregory (advice book “How to Behave”): “If you (women) happen to have any learning, keep it a profound secret, especially from the men.”

Jean Jacques Rousseau: “Men and women should not be educated in the same manner. The education of women should always be relative to men. To please, to be useful to us, to take care of us, to render our lives easy and agreeable – these are the duties of women at all times, and what they should be taught in their infancy.”

Napoleon Bonaparte: “Nature intended women to be our slaves. They are our property; we are not theirs. What a mad idea to demand equality for women! Women are nothing but machines for producing children.”

Robert Southey to Charlotte Bronte: “Literature is not the business of a woman’s life. She should stick to her proper feminine duties.”

The prevailing attitude toward women was to make babies, not books. The above quotes were given to us at a meeting about women writers.

BEHIND THE

SIGNPOST

More quotes “I’ve got so many liver spots, I should come with a side of onions.” – Phyllis Diller “Seconds count – especially when dieting.”

“If you can’t make light of our troubles, keep them in the dark.”

“You always have time for things you put first.”

“Do unto others as though you were the others.”

We thank thee For rest and shelter of the night, Father, we thank thee.

For health and food, for love and friends, For everything thy goodness sends, Father in heaven, we thank thee.

Until next week, Bernice

Early attitudes toward women Aristotle: “The female is a female by virtue of a certain lack of qualities…we should regard the female nature as afflicted with a natural defectiveness. Silence is a woman’s glory.”

Euripides: “A woman should be good for every-

volunteer. “This is our opportunity to invite everyone who has been impacted by cancer to come together in a warm, positive, upbeat atmosphere,” said E. Schmidt.

Betty and Bob MacKean have again donated a beautiful handmade quilt to be raffled off as a fundraiser for the run/walk.

Anyone who would like to be on the ACS Finish Line Committee or part of a team, is invited to the kickoff on Friday, March 28, at 7 a.m. at Hacker’s Lanes.

This year registration will again be at the Birch Street Elementary School from 8-9 a.m. with the walk beginning from the school at 9:15 a.m.

The ACS is a nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing the suffering from cancer through research, education advocacy and service. For more information call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit their Web site at www.cancer.org., or Elvira Schmidt at 715-6532684 or Shary Shouse at 1-800-947-0487. - submitted

Expectant parents invited to hear birth stories HUDSON - The St. Croix Valley Doulas are hosting a free Parent Topic Meeting on Monday, March 3, at Hudson Hospital from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The topic at this meeting will be “Birth Stories” and prospective parents will hear from parents who have recently delivered their baby and what that experience was like for them. It will also be an opportunity to meet several of the inde-

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included cherry pie filling at 3 cans for 79¢, Vet’s dog food at 10 cans for 89¢ and angel food cakes at 29¢.The Webster DAR award went to Joyce McKinley of Siren.-A boy, Dwight Clyde, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Duane Fremont, Danbury, on Feb. 13.-Harold C.T. Petersen had an auction Feb. 25 at his place east of Frederic.-The movie “Sayonara” was playing at the Auditorium Theatre, St. Croix Falls.-Windies celebrated its 35th anniversary in Frederic with free coffee and cookies.-The Frederic Regional Tournament would open Thursday, March 6, and made frontpage news.-A record crowd attended the Scout Blue and Gold Banquet.-The Fish Bowl Inn, Siren served corn beef and cabbage for $1 for St. Patrick’s Day.Specials at Miller’s Store, Branstad and Falun, included a 1-lb. salmon for 47¢, eggs at 32¢ a dozen and milk filters at 59¢.-Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included Occident flour at 50 lbs. for $3.39, lettuce at 2 heads for 29¢ and peanut butter at 2 lbs. for 69¢.-Retail stores closed Friday, March 7, for the basketball tournament in Frederic.-President John Kennedy would address the annual Jefferson-Jackson Democratic dinner.

40 Years Ago The Frederic Co-op had a case lot sale including 24 cans corn at $4.59, 24 case lot of tomatoes for $4.59 and 4 lbs. of margarine for 89¢.-“Casino Royale” was playing at the Frederic Theatre.-Grantsburg would host visitors during Midwinter Sports.-Ray Swanberg, farmer, injured his foot in a power take-off.-The Cumberland Sears Store was sold to a Webster couple, Mr. and Mrs. Irving Ingren, by Art Branstad who had owned it since 1966.-Webster churches united for World Day of Prayer on Friday, March 1.-The March special at Our Own Hardware, Carlson Hardware in Frederic, was an ironing board pad and cover for 59¢.-A collision in Washburn County took the life of a Frederic Navy man, Harry Ogren, plus serious injuries to Wayne Peterson.-The disposal of country schools will be handled individually.-Specials at Route’s Super Market in Frederic were bacon at 49¢ lb., beef livers at 39¢ lb. and Cheer soap at 69¢ box.The grouse management area was sold.-A Wood Lake couple won the snowmobile at the Grantsburg event, namely the Ed Buhil family.-The annual meeting of the Falun Co-op Creamery was set for March 9.-The March of Dimes would benefit the mixed-boubles bowling.

20 Years Ago

ACS Run/Walk marks 13th year in Frederic FREDERIC – The Frederic American Cancer Society Run/Walk date has been set for Saturday, May 10. On this day, you can put on your athletic shoes and walk in the fight against cancer.

“The American Cancer Society Run/ Walk is a terrific event,” says ACS staff partner Shary Shouse. “This event is a pledge-based noncompetitive walk/run and awareness event that everyone, including cancer survivors, their family and friends, can celebrate the reality that cancer can be beaten.”

The event is also a chance for the community to rally together and support cancer survivors while raising money to eliminate cancer in the future. It is a great opportunity for fun and fitness for the whole family.

“For many participants, crossing the finish line means accomplishing a goal and winning,” Elvira Schmidt, chair of the Frederic Finish Line event stated.

“The American Cancer Society is reaching for our ultimate goal of finding a cure to eliminate all cancer.”

There is plenty of time to sign up as a participant or

Do you remember ?

pendent doulas (birth coaches) from the area.

The St. Croix Valley Doulas are affiliated with the Childbirth Collective and they offer support and coaching for parents throughout pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum.

For further information you may contact either Sue at 651-439-4100 or Angie at 715-338-2880. - submitted

Lewis Post Office hours were reduced.-John Hicks was honored at a retirement party.-The Osceola Parkinson’s group will meet March 1 in the lower level of the L.O. Simenstad Nursing Care Unit with someone speaking on drugs for treating the disease.Edward Berglund, David C. Olson, Jerry Nelson, Arthur Funk and Fred Yira.-A benefit spaghetti dinner was served for the Pete Mangelsen family Feb. 27, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, co-sponsored by the AAL Branch 6210.-The 911, hazardous spill plan was discussed by the Public Protection Plan at the Polk County Courthouse.-Open house was held Feb. 28 for the 100th birthday of Barbara Hulton at the Milltown Community Center.-Readers were asked not to submit any color photographs.Central Burnett municipalities formed a solid waste association, and asked to lease county land.-The Burnett-Polk Youth Ministry expanded hours.-Ag. Agent Russ Kiecker wrote a weekly newspaper column for this paper entitled “Browsing in Burnett.”-Cows are computer fed on the Glen Albee farm.-Students met Critterman at the Webster school and also Dairyland.-Frederic sent one wrestler on to state, Viking junior, Ralph Britton.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Hello, all you bipeds, Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. Today I’m writing from my kitchen at home. I’m guarding the Crock Pot because there is a chicken in it. If that thing even thinks of escaping, I’m all over it! It’s kind of Blacky distracting, but I’ll try and keep my focus on the news at hand.

I bode farewell to three of the ladies that have been staying here.

YAPpenings Sally went to her new home, and so has Jazzmine. Also, Ginger has left us. I’m not sure what the story is with her, though.

She changed her name to Francis before she left. Do you suppose she left for Hollywood to become a star?

Girls...go figure. Anyway, it’s always exciting to know that my friends are beginning a new life with a loving family. We are still full to the rafters, it seems, and we got one little new guy in last week as well.

Chocolate is a 12-week-old boxer mix. He’s all legs and has a crinkly face - lots of wrinkles - so he best get going on growing into his skin. He was a stray, but I forgot to ask him what part of the county he came from. The two pups, Beaugus and Boomer, were raising such a ruckus that it was hard to talk.

Or hear.

I was contemplating the cats here the other day.

We still have five of them that are awaiting a good home. I know I shouldn’t be biased, but I’m pretty sure cats have no desire to learn to read, and so I think I’m safe in telling you my thoughts. If you’re a regular reader, you may remember Reed telling you about the box that was left with the six pups and six

SHELTER

349-2964

Siren

Last week we lost some of our snow to the warm sunshine. As the days go by, and with the warmer weather, spring has to be right around the corner. Most of us are definitely ready for spring. Even the birds seem to be singing their songs of the coming spring. Looking at our paper, seems the bears are a little confused this month with our up-and-down temps trying to decide whether they should be out and about or still hibernating. Last week a gal from New Brighton, Minn., Lori Jo Kortus, e-mailed me stating she has already seen two robins. If that doesn’t signal spring, I don’t know what does.

There will be a pancake breakfast for parents and students coming up on March 26 at the Siren school. This event will give parents and students a chance to enjoy breakfast together. It is open to the students in early childhood through 12th grade. So, if you plan on coming to this event, mark you calendars.

Congratulations to elementary student Brady Mangen, middle schooler Alan Strabel and high schooler Kendra

653-4281

kittens in it back around the end of November. Well, Morris is one of those cats. He is the only one left of those particular pups and kittens and is growing before my eyes. He has such a great personality that I can’t figure out why no one has taken him home yet.

Of all the cats staying here, and I mean no offense to the others, Morris is the “Pick of the Litter Box” to me, so to speak. A little dog humor there, forgive me.

I was also looking at all the different dogs we have right now. For a long time it seemed like we had a ton of black Labs, but now we’ve got quite the variety of breeds. We’ve got beagles to shepherds, terriers to springer mixes. Miss Mini is going home soon, so that leaves Tofer as the last of the dust mops. He is an older guy, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at him. He can run circles around me and is as alert and perky as his younger companions.

Speaking of running in circles, it is just about time for my walk. I’m kind of a warm-weather dog and, during this recent cold snap, I wasn’t too willing to get off my couch. Oh brother, what a mistake! I walked past the mirror yesterday and stopped short.

I was aghast at what I saw. I did not know it was possible for a dog to get a “muffin top” over his hind end but, unfortunately, it’s true. I can’t wait for the snow to melt so I can get out and run around and twirl sticks over my head again and get back in shape.

I’m much too young to let myself go. Sniff, sniff...hey, I think that chicken is done! Mmmmm, I gotta run.

Take care, everybody, and get out with your pet for some fresh air. It’ll do ya all some good!

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org 715-866-4096.

Jones for being chosen Siren schools students of the week.

Sympathy to the family of George T. Green who passed away Feb. 7 and Alice M. Costerison on Feb. 11.

The Mina Copeland Head Start will be enrolling children for their 2008-09 school year. For more info or to have your child enrolled, contact Bonnie at 715-866-4867.

Art and Bev Beckmark were surprised this past weekend when friends, Gary and Nancy Schroeder of Menomonie stopped in for a visit and a look see at their new house before heading to the Hole in the Wall.

Peggy Strabel out on Waldora Road had surgery in the Cities last week and is now at home recuperating.

Mark your calendars for March 15 and 16. The Burnett County Sentinel will be sponsoring the Home Sweet Home Show on these days at the Webster High School.

Time is Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lewis

Pastor Tom Cook has the cold/bad throat that many of us have. It was reported on TV last week that those who developed the flu shot for last fall tried to choose the correct combination of strains to keep the flu in check but, unfortunately, it did not do the job. This year’s flu strain is from Australia so if you are coughing and have laryngitis, you’ve caught it. It is hard to predict which flu is going to go around and the conclusion is that the scientists did not make the right choice in 2007.

If you notice, many of the TV announcers are having trouble with their voices.

Open house will be held this Saturday, March 1, from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Lewis church for the 90th birthday of Margaret Ulick. Come and offer your congratulations and best wishes. No gifts please. Hope the nice weather remains.

The administrative board will meet at 7 p.m. at the Lewis church this Thursday, Feb. 28. No food served.

It is a busy week with choir rehearsal at 7 p.m., bible study Tuesday at 7 p.m., Lenten service at the church preceded by a Lenten meal at 6 p.m., Wednesday, administrative board at 7 p.m. on Thursday, and open house for Vernon and Margaret Ulick on Saturday.

Remember when shopping for groceries this week, also buy for the Frederic Food Shelf. Quite a few families are coming on Thursdays between 2 and 6 p.m. for food items. The cost of bread is the latest shocker, especially dark loaves. They say cereals and pancake mixes will follow suit.

Years ago, when coupons disappeared off cereal boxes, the companies promised they’d hold the line on price increases but, of course, everything changes as times change.

The morning book club met last Thursday at the Frederic Library to discuss “Two Old Women,” the March book to be read and discussed is “Pope Joan.”

Those who were involved in Sunday’s service were Pastor Tom Cook, Sylvia Schaetzel, Kara Alden, LaVonne

Bev Beckmark

Bernice Abrahamzon

Boyer, Gloria Chell, Steve Warndahl and ushers, Carol and Dennis Bohn.

Sending get-well wishes to Darlene Jensen who had shoulder surgery last week and, unfortunately, a heart reaction.

We miss you already at Scrabble club on Monday afternoon. Hoping for good news soon.

Some of the Lewis men enjoyed bowling last Sunday afternoon and some ladies, too. LaVonne Smith went bowling and says she did all right.

The Lewis men’s group will serve a meal the first Wednesday in March at 6 p.m. followed by the Lenten meditation. This is a free meal every Wednesday during Lent with Lewis and Siren UM churches alternating place and food providers.

LaVerne Leep visited at the home of Carol and Lee Mangelsen on Saturday and Sunday as LaVerne’s greatgrandchildren, Ethan and Emmy, spent the weekend there.

Happy Corners

Mardel Barnette

Mardel Barnette and Shawn visited at the Gene Doster home on Monday evening.

Mardel Barnette and Shawn visited Vern Catlin at the Riverside Manor on Tuesday afternoon.

Pat Richards visited at the Mardel Barnette home for a couple days.

Gene Doster visited Vern Catlin at the Riverside Manor on Sunday afternoon.

Our get-well wishes go out to Esther Franger who is in Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire with a stroke.

Engagement

Priebe/Hanson Sarah Priebe and Ryan Hanson, both of Dresser, are pleased to announce their engagement.

The bride is a graduate of Pine Technical College in Pine City, Minn., and is currently employed at St. Paul HealthParenters, Ob/Gyn Clinic.

The groom is a graduate of UW-Stout and currently employed at RFA Minnesota Engineering.

The couple is planning a April 19 wedding at East Balsam Baptist Church, Balsam Lake. – submitted

Birth announcements With joyful hearts, Corey and Dr. Jeanine Brunclik of Osceola, happily announce the birth of their son, Joseph Jay, born on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, at 10:24 a.m., at the St. Croix Regional Hospital. Joseph weighed 6 lbs., 14 oz. and was 21 inches long.

Proud maternal grandparents are Denell and Brian Bellisle of Chisago City, Minn., and Larry and Ruth Lunceford of Lindstrom, Minn. Proud paternal grandparents are Joseph and Pat Brunclik of Siren. Great-grandmothers are Connie Hunt of Siren and Evelyn Brunclik of Osceola.

••• Born at Amery Regional Medical Center: A girl, Kimberly Maria Brinker, born Feb. 14, 2008, to Nadezhda and Todd Brinker, Clear Lake. Kimberly weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz.

••• A boy, Camden Ryan Hare, born Feb. 14, 2008, to Ashley and Joshua Hare, Clayton. Camden weighed 9 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A boy, Ivar Tenzing Scriba Kasberg, born Feb. 15, 2008, to Catherine and Levi Kasberg, Amery. Ivar weighed 6 lbs., 1/2 oz.

••• Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center: A girl, Noelle Sophia Klanderud, born Feb 10, 2008, to Sam and Becky Klanderud, Shafer, Minn. Noelle weighed 8 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A boy, Caleb Michael Pate, born Feb. 13, 2008, to Meghan Preissing and Robert Pate, Luck. Caleb weighed 7 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A girl, Audrey Piper Stolp, born Feb. 15, 2008, to Jessie Ahlstrand and Trevor Stolp, Shafer, Minn. Audrey weighed 8 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A girl, Molly Ann Cook, born Feb. 19, 2008, to Sarah and Ben Cook, Luck. Molly weighed 6 lbs., 6 oz.

••• A girl, Willow Rain Cummings, born Feb. 19, 2008, to Polly Cummings and Aaron Nelson, Osceola. Willow weighed 8 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A girl, Ava Marie Gregory, born Feb. 20, 2008, to Richard Jr. and Jaime Gregory, Center City, Minn. Ava weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

•••

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement

320-242-3933

Cloverton - Markville

First of all, a huge welcome home to Clint Coveau. He has been hospitalized in the Cities for a few weeks and the entire townships of Arna and New Dosey are glad to have him back. May your recovery continue, Clint.

A couple of very pleasant events to report for the Ament couple. Ruth and Pam Berg went down to the Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center at Lanesboro, Minn., awhile back for the Root River Quilters Retreat. They joined 30 other people for a weekend of quilting. Ruth said they sewed quilts until their eyes couldn’t see anymore.

The following weekend had Ruth and Gary, along with their two sons and all of the grandchildren, enjoying themselves at the Edgewater Motel and Water Park in Duluth to celebrate Gary’s 60th birthday.

Helen and Jim Allen didn’t do much other than spend the week staying warm.

Dave Drake says he saw one of those “awful birds”, a shrike, through his deck window the other day. He wondered why all of the other birds had flown away in a big hurry, went to look and there the shrike was.

Sandy and Dave attended the Lenten service at the Zion Lutheran Church on Tuesday. The soup and sandwiches, served by Jo Masters and Marlene Mishler, were followed

by the service.

Clara Lilly and her son, Mike, joined several other local people for an anniversary dinner for Esther and Jim Vink at the Hay Creek Outpost on Monday, Feb. 18. The Vinks have been married 18 years.

Beverly Carlin said it was a very nice outing when she went down to her daughter-in-law Kay’s home in Zimmerman for a candle party on Saturday.

On Valentine’s Day, Bev and Ed joined sons Bill and Dale with their families at Amy’s Café in Sandstone for good meal.

Saturday had Shirley and Jerry Blokzyl in New London for a baby shower for Jerry’s grandson Nick and his wife, Emily. Then, just five days later, the baby was born, a girl they named Madysen Aaliyah. The Blokzyls spent the weekend with Jerry’s son Mike and his wife, Shelley.

On Friday, Feb. 22, a good friend of theirs from New London was appearing on “The Price is Right.”

My husband, Dave Baker, and I are enrolled in the community education literature class with Arla Budd again this winter. This year we are studying the novel, “Can’t Wait to get to Heaven” by Fannie Flagg. There are seven of us taking this very enjoyable class.

Frederic Senior Center Kelch/Kellen Jolene Kelch of Rice Lake and Nathanial Kellen of New Auburn are pleased to announce their engagement.

The bride is the daughter of Steve and Judy Kelch of Luck; and the parents of the groom are Dennis and Vicki Kellen of New Auburn.

Jolene is employed at Homeshield in Rice Lake in the accounts payable department, and Nathanial is employed in construction with at Integrity Builders.

The couple is planning a June 14 wedding at Trinity Lutheran Church in McKinley. A reception will follow at the Legion Hall in Cumberland. After a honeymoon in California, the couple plans to reside in Rice Lake. submitted

Engagement

Byl/Binversie Mike and Joyce Byl of Grantsburg are happy to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jenny, to Ben Binversie, son of Mike and Susan Binversie of Kiel.

Jenny is a 2000 graduate of Luck High School. She graduated from UW-Madison in 2004 in agriculture journalism and dairy science. She is employed at the Cattle Connection in Amery, and is working towards degrees in graphic design and web design at the Dakota County Technical College.

Ben is a 1998 graduate of Kiel High School. He graduated from UW-River Falls in 2002 in agricultural engineering technology, and then earned his master’s degree at UW-Madison in 2005 in agriculture engineering. He is employed at Greenwood Technologies, LLC. An April 12, 2008, wedding is planned at the Zion Lutheran Church of Trade Lake. – submitted

Spades were played on Monday, Feb. 18, with the following winners: Ed Berdal in first place, Vi Luke in second place, Shirley Sandquist in third place and Hazel Hoffman in fourth place.

Wednesday pokeno was played. Refreshments and fellowship time followed.

Thursday 500 cards were played with the following winners: Inez Pearson in first place, Don Wick in second place, Marlyce Borchert in third place and Mickey Kilmer in fourth place.

Friday the pokeno group played and enjoyed each others’ company. They always have refreshments to share.

Anyone who enjoys playing 500 cards is welcome to join this group or any of our activities.

Saturday, food, fellowship and games were enjoyed with a pork buffet dinner, and Clareese Marek’s lemon desert

Ardyce Knauber

topped off this dinner.

Thursday, March 6, we will have the tax aides at the center from 9 a.m. to noon. This is a wonderful service, so if you need help with your taxes and Homestead, use this service.

The cold weather doesn’t stop our seniors from getting to the center. Stop into the center and join us, and you will find good visiting with other senior friends.

Friday, Feb. 29, our executive meeting will be held at 9:30 a.m.

Saturday, March 1, our share-a-lunch Saturday with the celebration of our March birthdays. Those celebrating birthdays in March are: Art Baker, Marlyce Borchert, Joyce McKinney and Norma Nelson.

We are missing Charlie Friday from our center and are looking forward to his getting back, as he is improving.

Interstate State Park News Nature story time at Interstate Park Join naturalist Julie Fox at 10 a.m. on Thursdays through March at the Ice Age Center at Wisconsin Interstate Park for a story and activity chosen especially for preschoolers and their parents. Please bring cloth-

Fran Levings

ing for outdoor play (weather permitting).

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35 just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. For more information call Julie at 715-483-3747. - submitted

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 866-4334 Our center was open on Monday and the nutrition meal was served, but our monthly senior meeting was cancelled due to the subzero weather. Deb’s staff meeting at the government center was also cancelled and rescheduled for Monday, Feb. 25.

Maxine Peterson joined the diners for lunch and furnished a birthday cake for hubby, Harold, as it was his (very young) 82nd birthday.

Tuesday was a busy day in town with voters stopping by the community center to vote in the primary election. The turnout could have been better, and I hope it will be for the General Election day. People don’t have the right to complain about the results if they don’t even care enough to take the time to vote. People in foreign countries actually die trying to get the freedom to vote.

Burnett County Aging Director Lois Taylor had lunch at the center on Wednesday and then stayed and helped Deb with some computer problems and replaced ink cartridges for the printer. For dessert, Deb served me a piece of chocolate cake with fudge frosting with a lighted candle on it while the diners sang “Happy Birthday.”

Twelve ladies played dime bingo at our center in the afternoon and everyone enjoyed the refreshments furnished by Mary Klar. Jane Wardean made a frosted

Webster Senior Center poppy seed bundt cake with a lighted candle on it for my birthday in addition to another quadruple-chocolate bundt cake.

Margel Ruck also made me some of her fudge so I was on a sugar high by evening.

I felt I needed to join chocoholics anonymous to come back down. What a way to spend my 67th birthday! Yah sure, I don’t care who knows how old I am. I feel that as senior citizens, we are like a rare French wine – we improve with age.

Welcome home to Mary Garbe. She was back helping Les on the home-delivered meal route this morning, and she will only have to go to Pine City for her weekly dialysis treatments.

Twenty-seven people enjoyed the roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings that Deb served on Thursday. Afterward Ann Agerbeck, Theresa Gloege, Jane Wardean, Bernie Boelter and I played several games of Golf cards while Dave Wardean, Gene Johnson, Earl Boelter and Harold Peterson played pool. Abby Brand stopped in to show us her new 4-month-old baby girl, a tiny shih tzu puppy she had just picked up from Linda Sears. What a cutie!

The Webster Lioness Club met at the Community Center on Thursday for their monthly dinner meeting with a chicken dinner catered by The Tap. As part of their business meeting, they voted to donate

Dewey - LaFollette 468-2940 A large group of relatives and friends gathered at the home of Garry and Beth Crosby on Saturday afternoon in honor of Sunshine Crosby’s 30th birthday. Many more happy years are wished for Sunshine!

Duane and Kathy Albee, Bloomington, Minn., were Sunday supper guests of Beverly Brunclik.

Ken Otis was a recent visitor of Maynard and Ronda Mangelsen.

Karen Mangelsen Beth Crosby was a Tuesday supper guests of Judy Albee and Don Schleiss.

Matt Lester visited Maynard and Ronda Mangelsen Saturday afternoon. They enjoyed playing cards.

Katie Crosby had a sliding party at Grandpa and Grandma Crosby’s on Sunday afternoon in honor of her birthday.

Clam River Tuesday Club will meet on Wednesday, March 5, at 1:30 p.m., at the home of Sandy Redding.

Baby born at SCRMC during lunar eclipse

Mary Klar

$200 to the Webster Senior Center. It was reported that Theresa Gloege, Gladys Beers and Mary Poretti, with occasional help from Edna Schroeder and Louise Coston, will have made over $600 as the club’s share in proceeds made from selling 50/50 ($1) chance tickets at the Webster High School basketball games over this past season. This earned money will be in turn used for scholarships for graduating Webster High School seniors. The other half of the monies was given back to winners in the drawings.

It was nice to have Carol Berglind play cards with the Mert Kisselburg, Nancy O’Brien, Theresa Gloege, Jane Wardean, Margel Ruck and I on Thursday evening.

Pool players were Dave Wardean, Sam Williamson, Pat O’Brien, Gene Johnson and Harold Peterson. And again, there was a whole lot of laughing and eating going on too!

The Burnett County Literacy Group met at the center on Friday morning. After lunch, the AARP tax representatives helped people with their Homestead Credit and other tax forms until after 5 p.m. Of course, we had Margel Ruck, Theresa Gloege, Gladys Beers, Carol Berglind, Deb Korhonen and I playing cards again, and some of us even stayed until almost 5 p.m.

We even got Opal Johnson, Edna Schroeder and Jim Lubinski talked into playing until time for their tax appointment.

It was great to meet Jim and Garlynn and I hope we convinced them to come back again, because we are a fun bunch, really!

Don’t forget that the next AARP tax assistance dates are Fridays, March 14, March 28 and April 11, from 1 to 4 p.m.

If you haven’t done so already, mark your calendar for the buffet luncheon and free bingo/card party we are having at our sen-

Fran Krause

Orange

Written for last week The Harmony H.C.E. Club had their annual Valentine dinner for the residents of Cedarwood Manor on Tuesday.

Tuesday evening Bob, Heather and Rylie O’Brien helped Jack O’Brien celebrate his birthday with dinner at Adventures in Siren. Sunday dinner guests of Lavonne and Jack were Mike and Tylyn O’Brien. They celebrated Mike’s birthday.

Tom and Becky O’Brien were Sunday evening visitors of Jack and Lavonne.

Tim O’Brien, from N.C., who was on a business trip to St. Paul and Duluth, Minn., on Monday and Tuesday, spent Monday evening with his parents, Jack and Lavonne.

Helen Stone, who has been visiting Maxine Stone, left on Sunday for a business trip to Detroit for a week.

Fran Krause was hostess for the Sarah Circle on Wednesday.

Written for this week Helen Stone returned from Detroit, Mich., Friday. Then she left for business in Lincoln, Neb., on Saturday, returning to her home at Burger, Texas, following three weeks visiting Maxine Stone.

Ed and Brad Peterson met Dean Peter-

Shown are baby Tecumseh and his proud parents Brooke Ammann and Sean Fahrlander. – Photo submitted ST. CROIX FALLS – Every birth, and every “birth” day is special. But some birthdays offer a little bit of notoriety. A birth on New Year’s, Christmas or Fourth of July, for example, may be opportunity for a special celebration. Then there are those lucky ones born Jan. 1, 2000, the first day of the new century.

Tecumseh Mosay Fahrlander, the son of Brooke Mosay Ammann and Sean Fahrlander, will also have a small claim to fame with an unusual story to tell about his birth. Delivered by Dr. Rebecca

Lyman, Tecumseh was born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center on Feb. 20, at 9:15 p.m., right in the middle of one of the longest total lunar eclipses in recent memory! Is there a special meaning to this relatively rare event? Is this a sign of good luck, or bad luck, or nothing at all?

At the very least, Tecumseh will someday be able to tell his friends about being born during this rather rare and special celestial event—and show them this article and photo as proof! - submitted

ior center on Saturday, March 8. Lunch will be served promptly at noon with bingo and cards to follow immediately after. We have lots of good prizes and a few $5 cash prize envelopes to boot!

Judy Baker spent the week in Superior visiting her daughter Laura and Zane Swanson and other family members, and also did some shopping.

Our gratitude goes out to Marty Shutt for 24 decks of playing cards; Dan and Melanie Johnson – eggs; and Tony Saladis – aluminum cans.

Our get-well wishes and prayers continue to go out to Vernon Haaf, Fran Arnold, Albert Doriott and Antone and Jeremy Gronski.

Dr. Daniel Mark, heart specialist at Duke University, New York, reported that optimism can mean life for heart patients, and pessimism can mean death, because a healthy outlook can help heal the heart.

We have to change negative emotions by replacing anger, anxiety and depression with a healthy outlook. Faith in God can produce change. No matter what happens, you can find joy in the Lord. The Bible isn’t a psychology textbook, but it gives us the wisest counsel for experiencing happiness. Proverbs 17:22 tells us that “a merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries the bones.”

Jesus said on several occasions, “Be of good cheer.” People who look beyond their present difficulty and put their trust in God’s goodness cannot help but be joyful.

“All your anxiety, all your care, bring to the mercy seat and leave it there; never a burden he cannot bear, never a friend like Jesus.” – Joy. “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”-John 16:33. See you at the center!

LaVonne O’Brien

son in Iowa over the weekend where they went rabbit hunting.

Mallory Peterson spent Monday at home while on break from the University of Minnesota.

Natalie Bray and children spent the weekend with Bud Flagstad and Lexi at Andover, Minn.

Reeny Neinstadt spent the weekend with Sandy and Lamar Johnson and family at Cadott. Reeny and Natalie visited Clint Coveau last week.

Mark, Julie and Brad Freeborn spent Sunday with Marvel Merriam.

Lavonne O’Brien had lunch with Heather Wade Wednesday, and celebrated her birthday.

Theresa Childers spent Thursday night and Friday with Jack and Lavonne. Dave and Wallie Childers came Friday night through Sunday and went snowmobiling.

They had dinner with Jack and Lavonne Sunday.

The Orange 4-H met Sunday afternoon to work on a group art project at the Jim Kopecky home.

Allyson Krause spent the weekend with her family. They attended the Webster High School basketball game.

St. Croix Valley Senior Center The Tuesday afternoon domino winners were; Martha Lundstrom in first place, Don Anderson in second place and Jean McIntyre in third place. 500 card winners were: Herb in first place, Don Benson in second place, Jeanette in third place, Artis Brown in fourth place and Mildred Lindberg in fifth place.

We had our general meeting on Thursday,with just 14 people. I guess the cold weather and flu bug is getting the folks.

Lists help fickle folks decide what weather is better! Ten good things about cold weather: 1. A warm bed, 2. Working, 3.

A hot shower in the morning, 4. The sounds of walking or skiing on crunchy snow, 5. A wood-burning stove, 6. Getting home after

work and not having to go out again, 7. A hot drink, 8. Knowing the oil bill is paid, 9.

Down jackets and 10. The challenge.

Ten bad things about winter: 1. Getting out of a warm bed or hot shower, 2. Zippers, 3. Putting on boots, 4. Riding in the car 10 miles before the heater heats up, 5.

The oil bill, 6. Postcards from people in Florida, California and Arizona, 7. Drafty windows, 8. Funny weathermen, 9. Feeling sorry for cattle out in the cold and 10. Picking up kids at school because it’s too cold to walk.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Lonnie Jones in first place, Lloyd Knutson in second place and Jeanette in third place.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Leap year baby celebrates 22nd actual birthday

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Friday, Feb. 29, will be a big day for 88-yearold Lucille Chelmo. Born a leap year baby in 1920, on that day Chelmo will be celebrating her 22nd actual birthday. She plans to do it up right, having ordered the biggest cake she could find, chocolate and white with 22 red frosting roses, to share with her card-playing friends at the Siren Senior Center.

Four years ago, in her biggest birthday splash to date, Chelmo rented the Siren Community Center, and paid $150 to have Jim Armstrong’s music for dancing and enjoyment. She bought the meat and cheese for the lunch, and baked cakes, cookies and bars for weeks ahead of time. According to Chelmo, people are still talking about what a good time they had that day.

In other years, Chelmo and her family celebrated “any old time,” and laughed about how she didn’t have an actual birthday day that year.

Chelmo has been a lifelong dancer, but arthritis has slowed her to two dances and then she sits down to watch. “Dancing was my life after Lyle died,” she said.

Lucille and Lyle Chelmo were married Easter Sunday, April 15, 1941, at Central United Methodist Church in Grantsburg. The wedding was after morning worship, and everyone at the service was invited to take part. Lucille’s sister, Gladys, invited the newlyweds and the immediate family to a dinner after the wedding.

Two children were born to their union, a son John and a daughter, Janet Everson. They also raised a foster child, Gordy Chelmo. Seven grandchildren are now part of Chelmo’s family.

Chelmo was born in Rutland, N.D. Her four siblings and their parents lived on a small farm. Her dad had a new Model T Ford with eisinglass windows, a picture she vividly remembers. Farming brought the family to Grantsburg when Chelmo was 4 years old.

She and Lyle farmed south of Grantsburg. When they retired and sold the farm, the two bought property along the Yellow River. “I spent 10 years of ‘paradise on earth’ in the place on the Yellow River,” Chelmo commented. Lyle died Feb. 3, 1982. After his death, Chelmo

This year, Lucille Chelmo, Siren, has a birthday on which she can actually celebrate. Her 22nd birthday falls on Friday, Feb. 29, and she has ordered the biggest cake she can find to share with her card-playing friends at the Siren Senior Center.

– Photos by Nancy Jappe moved to Siren.

Chelmo’s driver’s license was recently renewed for eight more years. She is proud of her good eyesight and hearing. “I’m in good shape for the shape I’m in,”

This photo was taken of Lucille Chelmo when she was 4 years old and had just moved to Grantsburg from her birthplace of Rutland, N.D. she quipped. Hard work is her secret to having lived a long life. “I (used to) pitch hay bales. Now I can’t pitch a 10-pound bag of sugar,” she said regretfully.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Amery Public Library “7th Heaven,” by James Patterson Having caught up with the “Women’s Murder Club” on their recent television program, I was curious about the new novel featuring the ladies. Detective Lindsay Boxer is trying to solve the mystery of Michael Campion, known to the media as “the boy with the broken heart.” Born with an unusual heart defect, he has been carefully raised and now as a young adult has disappeared.

Lindsay gets a lead and Assistant District Attorney Yukie Castellano may get her biggest case when it appears that a young prostitute will be indicted for killing Michael and dismembering his body.

In the meantime, a string of inexplicable arsons occur, each ending in the deaths of two affluent citizens killed for no discernable reason. Lindsay and her police partner, Rich, find themselves working long hours and forming a closer bond, so close a bond that Lindsay’s boyfriend, Joe becomes perturbed.

Fast-paced and cut to the chase, Patterson’s writing is so bare bones that I sometime long for a description of something, but his plotting keeps the reader cruising along.

Library notes Make a note, parents of children and teens who are dropped off at the library, to make sure that you know the hours that the library is open. In the cold weather, we don’t want anyone to have to wait after the library is closed. We are open until 8 p.m. on Monday and Friday nights and 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Story time will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday mornings. Everyone is welcome for songs and stories. If you are new to the area you may meet other parents of young children.

Gratitude is extended to everyone who donated to the Friends of the Library Amery’s Got Talent show. Grati-

tude is also extended to workers, bakers, Beaver Brook Badgers 4-H, individuals and businesses who gave gift certificates and to all the performers who performed and especially to Marv Nevala, Meg Fleming, Wanda Johnson, Andrea Grasser Uhas, Jody Ferguson and Sarah Carpenter for spearheading this event.

A debt of gratitude is owed to Tom Benson for volunteering to emcee the event and to Amery High School for allowing the library to use their space.

The Amery Public Library Board meets on March 3, at 6:30 p.m. for their library board meeting.

The Friends of the Library Board meet on March 17, at 5:30 p.m., for their next meeting.

Friends of the Library Book Group meets on March 31, at 7 p.m. to discuss “Bet Your Bottom Dollar,” by Karen Gillespie. Pick up a book at the circulation desk and join us for fun with this hilarious southern confection.

Teens Read Book Group meets on March 31, to discuss “Fahrenheit 451,”

by Ray Bradbury to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this science fiction classic.

Pick up a book at the circulation desk and join us if you are a teen.

Otaku Club meets at 5 p.m. every Tuesday for teens who like manga and anime. Stop in and check it out if those things appeal to you.

Gratitude is extended to the readers at Willowridge and Golden Age Manor who met with me last week to discuss “Gap Creek,” by Robert Morgan.

Remember that the Amery Public Library has tax forms, Wisconsin, Federal and Minnesota. Stop in and pick up your forms and get that job done!

Library hours Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Centuria Public Library Hours The Centuria Public Library is open Monday from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m., Wednesday from

noon to 5 p.m., Thursday from noon to 7 p.m., closed Friday, and open 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.

Clear Lake Public Library Gardening seminar Gratitude is extended to Fritz Coulter of the Polk County Master Gardeners Group for the very informative program. Attendees learned a lot and are looking forward to the next program which will be April 19 at the Clear Lake Area Community Center.

Smithsonian Exhibition soon The Smithsonian Exhibition “Between Fences” will be arriving in Clear Lake soon for its six-week run. A lot of effort has gone into the planning of this exhibition and ancillary programs. Please visit clearlakelibrary.org or fencesatclearlake.com for a complete schedule of events. Volunteers are still needed to act as hosts/hostesses/tour guides. Please contact Cricket at the library at 263-2802 if you are interested in spending some time welcoming people to Clear Lake and Polk County.

New fiction arrivals “A Sister’s Test,” by Wanda Brunstetter (Second in Sisters of Holmes County series) “A Week from Sunday,” by Dorothy Garlock “Gotcha Down,” by Chris Earl “Lady Killer,” by Lisa Scottoline “Stalked,” by Brian Freeman “First Patient,” by Michael Palmer “Appeal,” by John Grisham “Light of the Moon,” by Luanne Rice “Weekend Warriors,” by Fern Michaels “Wild Inferno,” by Sandi Ault “7th Heaven,” by James Patterson Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Friday: noon - 5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

We can be reached by phone at 715-2632802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Clear Lake Public Library

Osceola Public Library Cold nights, hot reads is in full swing!

Third-annual adult winter reading program began Monday, Jan. 7, and runs through Monday, March 31. Stop in to the Osceola Public Library to register for the program. The 10 steps to winter bliss are as follows: 1. Register 2. Read 3. Report back to the library 4. Receive a gift 5. Read 6. Report back to the library 7. Receive a gift 8. Read 9. Report back to the library 10.Receive a gift Pretty easy! Participants must be 17 years of age or older. Only one entry per person. And, audiobooks count.

Book discussion The library will be holding a book discussion Tuesday, March 25, 6 p.m. on “The March,” a novel by E.L. Doctorow.

In the Civil War’s final years, General William Tecumseh Sherman marched 60,000 Union troops through Georgia

and the Carolinas, cutting a 60-mile swath of pillage and destruction that effectively ended the Confederate rebellion. In addition to General Sherman himself, the characters here include: a beautiful freed slave girl named Pearl; a Union regimental surgeon, Colonel Sartorious; Emily Thompson, the dispossessed daughter of a Southern judge; and Arly and Will, two misfit soldiers.

Pick up a copy of the book at the circulation desk and join the discussion!

New participants are always welcomed.

Preschool story time Preschoolers and an accompanying adult are invited to join in a half hour of stories, songs, and fun every Thursday morning at 10:30 am.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

St. Croix Falls Public Library “Knitting for Peace” “Knitting for Peace: Make the World a Better Place One Stitch at a Time,” author Betty Christiansen will be at the library on Saturday, March 22, at 10:30 a.m.

“Knitting for Peace” is the first book to capture this historic movement.

Wartime knitting has a long history, from Martha Washington to actress Mary Pickford—America’s first sweetheart and the first “celebrity” knitter— knitting on the set between takes for World War I Red Cross efforts. Inspired by this rich legacy, Christiansen researched modern efforts that aim to continue this tradition. She profiles these initiatives and offers 15 projects that can be knitted to support their specific causes, including the Adopt-Me Blanket, Peace Fleece Classic Wool Socks, the Knitting for Peace Messenger Bag, the Project Linus Security Blanket, and many more projects for knitters of any skill level. Come and meet Betty, check out her projects, bring your own!

Ongoing fundraising events Announcing the Friends of the Library/St. Croix Falls 20-Month Giving Campaign! Now through 2009, the Friends of the St. Croix Falls Library invite everyone to make a 20-month pledge to help build the new library!

Each person decides how much that he/she can give each month for 20 months and completes the pledge form.

Then, once a month, the person gives the amount. Any monthly amount is welcome! No amount is too small nor too big. Just imagine the new library! In 2007, the library averaged 3,500 patrons/month. If 2,000 patrons give $10/month for 20 months, we would raise $400,000 by September 2009! Let’s do it! How to participate?

Dresser Public Library

1. Stop in the St. Croix Falls Library 2. Fill out a pledge form 3. Take home and use the 20-month giving campaign monthly coupons. This is a giving opportunity for everyone!

Saturday talk about the book club The book club will meet on the ides of March, Saturday, March 15, at 9:30 a.m., at the Buzz, (formerly Goochi Noochies).

The current selection is “Water for Elephants,” by Sarah Gruen.

Orphaned and penniless in the early part of the Great Depression, Jacob Jankowski lands a job with the third-rate Benzini Brothers circus, lucky to have any job at all. Marlena, the star of the equestrian act, is there because she’s fallen in love with the wrong man, a handsome circus boss with a wide mean streak. And Rosie the elephant is there because she’s the great gray hope of the circus, the new act that will be its salvation. But Rosie doesn’t have an act, and can’t even follow instructions. The bond that grows among this unlikely trio is one of love and trust, and ultimately is their only hope for survival.

Technology Free wireless is available at the library.

Also, visit the library Web site stcroixfallslibrary.org to get information on the building project, programs at the library and much, much more!

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. every day except Saturday 10 a.m.

– 1 p.m. Closed on Sundays.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Balsam Lake Public Library Story time Please join us for our Annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration Wednesday, March 5, at 11 a.m. during our regular story time. Oh what a party we will have!

Story time is 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 February “Stranger in Paradise” by Robert Parker, “Irish Country Village” by Patrick Taylor, “Strangers in Death” by JD Robb, “Killing Ground” by Jack Higgins, “7th Heaven” by James Patterson and “Honor Thyself” by Danielle Steel.

Book club The book club meets Wednesday, March 19, 3 p.m. and all ages are welcome. “Iron Lake,” by William Kent Krueger. Krueger brilliantly evokes northern Minnesota’s lake country, and reveals the dark side of its snow-covered landscape. Part Irish, part Anishinaabe Indian, Corcoran “Cork” O’Connor is the former sheriff of Aurora, Minn. Embittered by his “former” status, and the marital meltdown that has separated him from his children, Cork gets by on heavy doses of caffeine, nicotine and guilt. Once a cop on Chicago’s South Side, there’s not much that can shock him. But when the town’s judge is brutally murdered and a young Eagle Scout is reported missing, Cork takes on a mind-jolting case of conspiracy, corruption, and scandal. As a lakeside blizzard buries Aurora, Cork must dig out the

truth among town officials who seem dead-set on stopping his investigation in its tracks. But even Cork freezes up when faced with the harshest enemy of all: a small-town secret that hits painfully close to home.

William Kent Krueger author of the Cork O’Connor mysteries set in the Minnesota northwoods will be at the Balsam Lake Library Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m.

Watch for more information regarding this discussion and book signing.

Love to read and hang out with friends Join a teen book club for sixth grade and up. Meet at the Balsam Lake Library (under the water tower) on Tuesday, March 4, 6 p.m. Ride the activity bus right to our door. For more information call the library.

Hobby and craft group Join us Saturday, March 8, at 10 a.m., here at the library. Bring a hobby or craft of your choice. Share ideas, learn new hobbies, hone skills and enjoy camaraderie. All ages welcome. We have rug hookers, knitters, artists and more. We meet every other Saturday morning.

Balsam Lake Public Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake. Hours are Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Polk County Library Federation Look forward to new happenings in both communities; Luck’s new library and “Between Fences” the traveling Smithsonian Exhibit featured at the Clear Lake Community Center from April 11- May 23.

Upcoming Brown Bag Library Lecture. Susi McCune, professional organizer is back by request. S.O.S. for Office Distress on March 4, from noon to 2 p.m.

Fee: $10 participant.

Trying to dig out from a landslide of mail, catalogs, client information and email messages? Wouldn’t it be great to find the items you need when you need them? McCune, an 18-year-veteran professional organizer, author and speaker, will share ideas on how to use proven clutter-clearing techniques to manage the mess and ease the stress in

your office (home or business). Learn the foolproof filing system that simplifies document storage and can be used to organize and coordinate both paper and computer files. You’ll get practical tips, product information, and a resource guide that can make your life easier today.

Reserve your space now by phoning 485-8680 or e-mailing at gifford@ifls.lib.wi.us.

For further information contact the library at 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.

Luck Public Library Computers for Seniors is held Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to noon.

The library knitting club meets Wednesdays at 4 p.m. Bring your needles and yarn and relax with us.

Preschool story hour is held Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. We focus on developing emergent reading skills and language.

Every fourth Thursday from 3 – 4 p.m. the library will host Beading with Wilma. Wilma Gray will be in this Thursday to show us the square stitch pattern. Bring your beads and join us for a good time.

The days are getting longer and people are starting to think gardening. Are you wondering how to build a greenhouse or cold frame out of stuff you just have laying around? Are you looking for creative garden ideas that will

brighten your yard and house? Do you want to know the best ways to start seeds indoors? Are you thinking about raising chickens, building a shed, refinishing a table, taking up quilting, building a wind turbine or cooking Chinese?

Get in to your public library. We have wonderful resources that can get you thinking about spring hobbies and projects. And the best thing about it is – they’re free! Come see us at the library.

Bricks are still available to purchase for our new library. Contact the village or the library for a copy of the Buy a Brick form. The building is really taking shape.

Hours: Monday 1 – 5 p.m., Tuesday 1 – 8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursday 1 – 8 p.m., Friday 1- 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon.

Milltown Public Library Wii tourney Thanks to a grant from Polk-Burnett Operation Round-Up, the library will host its first video game tournament for all teenagers on Friday, March 7. The only requirement to participate is that you are: a) 13-18 years old, and b) like to have fun. The competition begins at 6 p.m., and winners will receive free books and more! We’ll have free pizza and soda for dinner. Please sign up in advance so that we can have enough food for everyone.

Bring your friends and challenge them at all the coolest Nintendo Wii games.

Play your favorite games on our big screen. Test your skills against the librarian or a village cop! Also, we’ll announce how teens can have more access to the library’s Wii. If you don’t have a library card, you can sign up for one at the Wii Tourney. If you do have a library card and it has fines, you will still be able to participate.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast, wireless Internet access. No more waiting for an open computer. Surf the Net from a comfortable chair. No time limits.

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 10 a.m. yearround. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Frederic Public Library The Friends group chooses first meeting date Thirty people have already filled out cards during our recent campaign to formally develop a Friends group, and we are still welcoming new members. An organizational meeting is planned for Thursday, Feb. 28, at 5 p.m., at the library. The meeting will last about an hour and agenda items include setting a meeting calendar, talking about membership dues, exploring ways the Friends and the library can partner on projects and brainstorming promotional and fundraising ideas. If you would like to become a Friend, please fill out an interest card at the library or plan to come to the Feb. 28 meeting. An active membership means the Frederic Friends will be a strong support system for the library and our community.

Expand you horizons and join a book group The Thursday morning reading group meets Thursday, March 27, at 10 a.m., to discuss “Pope Joan” by Donna Cross.

The evening book group meets Tuesday, March 18, note date change, at 7 p.m. to talk about “The Lost: A Search for Six of Six Million,” by Daniel Mendelsohn.

Copies of the books are available at the library and new members are always welcome.

Frogs and reptiles Children and their caregivers are invited to an hour of stories and fun about

fascinating creeping, crawling creatures on Wednesday, March 5, at 10:30 a.m.

Federal and state tax forms are available We have the basic tax forms, including the Wisconsin homestead credit and rent certificate schedules. We can also download other tax forms from the Internet for you.

What’s on your credit report?

Did you know that you are entitled to an annual free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus? Protect yourself by learning what is on your credit report. To obtain the reports, go to https://www.annualcreditreport.com/ and follow directions. If you do not have Internet access at home, reserve time on a public access computer at the library to download the information.

Free wireless access available If you have a laptop with a wireless card, bring it to the library to use the free wireless Internet access. Cozy chairs and hot coffee are waiting for you.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular open hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave. Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

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.

New books Michael Palmer’s “The First Patient” is a high-concept, high-octane thriller at the crossroads of presidential politics and cutting-edge medicine. Who? Why? How? The president’s life is at stake. A small-town doctor suddenly finds himself in the most powerful position on earth, and the safety of the world is in jeopardy, Gabe Singleton roommate of the president years ago at the Naval Academy, must find the answers, and the clock is ticking.

FREE! This wonderful word describes, with few exceptions, the services provided by the 11 libraries in Polk County. Free library cards, free reference materials, free books and magazines, free audiobooks, free DVDs and videos, free Internet service, free story times, adult programming, summer reading programs and more! All 11 libraries are here to help families stretch their income and at the same time provide educational, recreational and cultural materials for you. Come on in and check us out.

Coming up Lapsitter and preschool story times meet each Thursday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Join us Feb. 28, for penguin stories, songs, fingerplays, crafts and more.

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.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

After 34 years, SCRMC’s Les Rodrigues retires ST. CROIX FALLS – Les Rodrigues, environmental services aide, will retire Feb. 29, after working for St. Croix Regional Medical Center for 34 years.

Originally from California, Rodrigues came to the area in 1955 to visit his nieces, Virginia and Nancy Christensen, and decided to stay. He began working for a private nursery in Shafer, Minn., doing landscaping and maintaining a greenhouse of plants for sale.

Thanks to his experience there, plants and gardening became a lifelong passion. He is also retired from the Armed Forces, having served in both the Merchant Marines and the Army for four years.

Rodrigues began working at St. Croix Regional Medical Center in 1974, and has worked for three different directors, Bernice Brenizer, Lorna Andrewson, and most recently, Jan Hansen. “I also worked under seven different administrators as the organization grew,” said Rodrigues, “and I can say that I’ve worked with good people in every department of the medical center. I’ve always been impressed with how much everyone really looks out for each other here. I have a great boss, and I am especially grateful to Dr. Jim Kravig, who has given me such excellent medical care all these years.”

Rodrigues’ most unforgettable experience at the medical center is truly remarkable. “One night some years ago,” Rodrigues explained, “I came in to clean and polish floors, but around 3 a.m., I felt pain in my chest and realized I might be having a heart attack.” Staff rushed Rodrigues to the ER where he was stabilized and then transferred to United Hospital where he had triple-bypass surgery. “I might not be alive if I hadn’t been working at the medical center,” he said.

Sports have always been a big part of Rodrigues’ life.

years as a semi-professional in the light heavyweight division. After work, Rodrigues would regularly drive to the Twin Cities to train. “I fought 132 fights, losing only 12,” Rodrigues noted, “and I was U.S. Semi-pro Champion for eight years.”

While Rodrigues never married, a big part of his life has been spent with Jane Bean’s family in Osceola, and in particular their son, Jackson, who is Rodrigues’ buddy. Rodrigues has given Jackson, who has Down syndrome, much attention, and they have a wonderful friendship. Both love to play sports and garden together.

Rodrigues will be honored by the medical center at a party on Friday, Feb. 29, where he will be presented with gifts and cards. “As my retirement nears,” said Rodrigues, “I’m looking forward to more free time for gardening with Jackson and fishing near Siren.“ - submitted

Les Rodrigues, environmental services aide, will retire Feb. 29, after working for St. Croix Regional Medical Center for 34 years. – submitted “I played semi-pro football, baseball and track,” said Rodrigues, “but I really loved boxing.” Rodrigues was a part of the Amateur Athletic Union for more than 40

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Kid’s Pro Ice returns to Jed’s Laker Lounge

This racer is congratulated at the end of his race for a job well done.

Kitty Cat racers coming around the final turn on Saturday,Feb. 23, at Jed’s Laker Lounge before seeing the checked flag.

On Saturday, Feb. 23, this young racer receives a little advice from a friend as they wait for the next heat to begin.

Photos by Raelynn Hunter

Lawn mower races held on Devils Lake WEBSTER – On Saturday, Feb. 23, the fourth-annual lawn mower races were held at Bump’s Bar on Devils Lake. The lawn mower races are sponsored by the Burnett County Tavern League. There is no admission fee to watch the races and food and beverages are served.

This year there was a good turnout at the races. There were approximately 20 lawn mowers entered. There are three categories for the mowers, stock, modified super stock and outlaw. The stock are regular lawnmowers used to keep lawns neat, super stock means there have been some modifications, and outlaw means they have had a lot of modifications done to them; these mowers may not even look like a mower any longer.

The races are held every February, so grab a mower, tune it up, and be there next winter for some Saturday afternoon fun. – submitted by Kayce Rachner, Webster High School student Charlie Reynolds of Isanti, Minn., with this grocery cart mower relaxes before the start of his race.

This photo shows just a small variety of the lawn mowers that were raced Saturday, Feb. 23, on Devils Lake in Webster.

Carl Rachner was the flag holder for the start of the race.

Photos by Kayce Rachner

The racers coming down the track on their lawn mowers before the start of the races.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Parent Music Association fishing contest on Trade Lake

Carter Van De Camp, Forest Lake, Minn., takes a bite of pizza just as he gets a bite on his line. Van De Camp got some assistance from Dan Bauer, Hudson, who he had just met on the ice that day. Pairing up to fish in last Saturday’s fishing contest at Big Trade Lake, sponsored by the Grantsburg Parent Music Association, the two agreed nothing could be better than a day out fishing with pizza.

Six-year-old Evie Carter, Grantsburg, had a big grin as dad held her prize catch, a 29inch, 5-lb. 4-oz. northern. Evie’s catch won her first-place honors at the Grantsburg Parent Music Association’s fishing contest on Big Trade Lake Saturday. Since dad helped her land the big northern, Evie decided she would give him her first-place prize, an ice auger.

Two-year-old Lucy Dahlberg looked like a pro with her jig pole in hand, even though this was her first time on the ice. Lucy and her dad, Dan Dahlberg, came out to Big Trade Lake last Saturday for some fishing fun at the Grantsburg Parent Music Association’s fishing contest.

Grantsburg School’s fifth- to 12-grade band director Jaime Holmstrom “caught” Jerry Dorff enjoying some sun on the ice last Saturday during the Grantsburg Parent Music Association’s icefishing contest on Big Trade Lake. Dorff and others came out to support the fundraiser for the high school band’s upcoming Chicago trip.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

10th-Annual Lions Club Whopper Ice-Fishing Contest

The Siren Lions Club registration trailer was a busy place on Saturday, while fisherman came to weigh fish and check the board for door prizes.

Fish were brought to the registration station on the lake to have their fish weighed and and recorded on Saturday afternoon.

This little fisherman was all smiles on Saturday, Feb. 23, during the contest held on Clam Lake.

Fishermen take a break from fishing to sample the variety of food offered during the Annual Lions Fishing contest held on Clam Lake Saturday, Feb. 23. – Photos by Raelynn Hunter

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

Over 40 area skiers finish Birkie

Fed by some 30 local volunteers CABLE-HAYWARD – Over 40 area skiers enjoyed a day in the woods Saturday skiing the 35th run of the American Birkebeiner, a 50-kilometer (31-mile) trek through the forest from Cable to Hayward. Partway through the course, at the 31.8-kilometer mark, deep in the woods, the skiers came to the Gravel Pit food stop staffed for many years by a group of area volunteers under the able leadership of William Johnson and Roxanne White. The locals greeted the skiers with banana pieces, water, energy drinks and lots of encouragement. While the lead skiers shot thru the stop without a break, the later ones would rest a bit before continuing their run. – submitted Local finishers in the 2008 American Birkebeiner Amery Larry Behne, Kris Budke, Bridget Draxler, Brooke Draxler, Dan Draxler, Gayle Gilbertson, Jay Gilbertson, Seth Ingham, Christopher Johnson, Craig Johnson, Mike Magnine, James Monette, Mark Oman, Duane Stone, Michelle Stone, Deborah Victor and Chelsea Whitley.

Centuria James Kelley.

Clayton Nicola Lee, Carol Wickboldt and Carol Wozniak.

Clear Lake Peggy Sempf.

Danbury Jerry Becker and Steve Pearson.

Dresser David Leske.

Frederic David Kettula.

Luck Robert Ditsch, Sue Katt, Paul Pedersen and Timothy Wilkie.

Jacqueline Lindskoog is one of three founders who have skied in all the Birkies. The 67-year-young woman stopped briefly to pose for her picture.

Osceola Michael Colaizy, Steven Edling, David Fehlen, Kevin Rogers, Neil Soltis and Steve Wendt.

Siren Gary Beecroft and Julie Beecroft.

St. Croix Falls Kevin Klein and Arne Lagus.

Webster Joseph Bjorklund.

Other Ian Karl.

The first Birkebeiner was in 1206 when Norwegian skiers carried the infant son of King Sverresson to safety through the forests. The life of the future King Hakon IV was saved by their act. This skier, in historic costume, chats with volunteer Noel Robinson, Pepin, a regular worker at the Gravel Pit food stop. “Birkebeiner” means “birch leggings” and refers to the birch bark wrappings around the legs of the skiers.

The view of the food station as skiers emerged from a nine-kilometer run through the woods. The volunteers fed the skiers banana chunks and energy

Battle of the Books Champions

St. Croix Falls seventh- and eighth-grade students in Mrs. Benoy’s Battle of the Books class have been reading books since September in preparation for the Battle of the Books competition in February. The winning team of Nathan Barry, Braden Chyrst, Kody Murphy and Maggie Singerhouse competed against 150 middle school teams from across the state of Wisconsin on their knowledge of 20 books. Results of the state competition will be online. – Photo submitted

The lead group of skiers emerge from the woods in a tight group. In some years the lead pack had only six or seven skiers, but some of the professionals were missing this year.

Photos by Gregg Westigaard

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Support group starting for those with bipolar disorder, depression FREDERIC – A support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression will be held weekly on Thursday evenings at 7:30 p.m., at St. Luke’s Methodist Church, Frederic, for residents of both Polk and Burnett counties.

The first meeting will be Thursday, March 6. Informal discussion of your illness with others that have similar problems, concerns and patterns, plus a monthly guest speaker, who will be announced, is on the agenda.

This group is for anyone 18 years or older

who might benefit from support and kindness. No fee for group, donations for coffee are welcome. For more info, call St. Luke’s Pastor Freddie at 715-327-4436, to be put in touch with the RN who leads the group. – Submitted by Salle Bachmann, RN

UW campuses see steady rise of u cases STATEWIDE - University of Wisconsin System health service managers say there’s a “marked increase” of flu cases on many campuses.

Sarah Van Orman is director of clinical services at UW-Madison. She says in the past week, there were 45 students who came to the Madison clinic with flu-like symptoms, more than twice than at the beginning of the month.

Van Orman says the flu season hasn’t really

peaked yet, either. She says the good news is that more students are immunized against the flu than ever before.

She says they had a record-breaking year for vaccinations, and at last count, had administered over 7,000 vaccines to UW-Madison students.

She says typically, the vaccinate between 5,000 and 6,000 out of a student population of about 40,000.

The UW-Eau Claire health services clinic re-

ports 80 visits over a two-week period this month by students with flu-like symptoms.

UW-Green Bay clinic says about a dozen affected students have checked in over the last two weeks.

The UW-Milwaukee clinic says about 30 visitors have complained of a flu-like illness, with 13 confirmed cases in recent weeks. Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull)

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

CESA 11 Regional Badger Spelling Bee held TURTLE LAKE – On Wednesday, Feb. 20, 36 young spellers faced off at the CESA #11 Regional Badger Spelling Bees that were held at Turtle Lake and Woodville. Listed below are the names and school districts of the local young spellers who participated in this year’s CESA #11 Bee. Dawn Michaelson, Unity, took the championship award at Turtle Lake, and Ashley Lahti, Turtle Lake, took second

place. In third place was Jack Rector, Osceola. The final two words were collusion and chlorosis.

The champion and runner-up at each location will be representing CESA #11 at the Badger State Spelling Bee Competition on Saturday, March 8, at Monona Grove High School. The winner of the State Spelling Bee will earn a weeklong trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Scripps Howard National Spelling

Bee, May 28 and 29.

Chasta Cimfl, CESA #11, was the pronouncer at the CESA #11 Turtle Lake site with Jane Manske of CESA #11 and Deb Neuheisel of Rice Lake in the role of judges.

Cindy Becker of CESA #11 was the Spelling Bee Coordinator.

Congratulations again to all of the students that have participated in this year’s Bee - they are all winners! Grati-

tude is extended to the local schools for participating in one of the academically oriented events offered through CESA #11!

District Amery Frederic Osceola Unity

Student Tia Storm Allison Martin Jack Rector Dawn Michaelson - submitted

Luck Spirit Week 2008 held LUCK – Luck High School students recently celebrated Spirit Week 2008. The week was filled with a variety of activities and many students were dressed up in unique and unusual ways. Monday was tropical day or senior citizen day, Tuesday was faculty day or occupations day, Wednesday was character day with the freshmen as bikers, the sophomores as cavemen, the juniors as superheroes, the seniors as hillbillies, and faculty members as the ultimate Cardinal fans.

Thursday was twins day and interna-

tional cultures day, while Friday was thrift shop prom and hunting day.

During the week, students participated in a wide variety of activities including: volleyball and dodgeball tournaments, hall decorating, pond and field-hockey games, a talent contest, sliding at the Luck Golf Course, a variety of class competitions and the building of snow sculptures. Juniors Jerod Buck, Jamison Gross and Dakota Krout competed for the title of King Freeze. On Friday, a spirit fest was held where stu-

Enjoying some time outdoors during the snow day activities, Morgan Denny, Sammie Schallenberger, Ashlyn Petersen, Sarah Elert and Christian McCabe pose for a picture while watching classmates play pond hockey at the Luck ice rink. – Photos submitted dents competed in a limbo contest, an obstacle course, four-person Twister games, class cheer and skit competitions.

During the spirit fest, Jamison Gross was crowned as Luck’s 2008 King Freeze.

The week concluded with the Class of 2008 (the seniors) being named Luck’s most spirited class for Spirit Week 2008.

– Photos submitted

Tying in with their overall beach theme, this was the juniors’ second-place entry in the snow sculpture contest.

Junior Ashley Valentine plays the Sophomore Eryn Taber twirls four guitar while singing an original song hula hoops while competing in an obduring the talent contest. stacle course race at the spirit fest.

Webster Middle School Sno Ball Court Tying in with their overall Under-the-sea theme, this was the seniors’ firstplace entry in the snow sculpture contest.

On Friday, Feb. 8, the Webster Middle School Sno Ball dance was held in the high school cafeteria. The DJ presenting the music was Austin Buchanan. Girls on court were Tessa Schiller, Amber Davis, Brittany Maxwell and Sorona Clark. Boys on court were Dillon Reeder, Mark Packard, Josh Bear and Chris Weeks. Cornation was held with Schiller being crowned the middle school snoball queen and Reeder being crowned the king. - submitted

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Luck Honor Roll Honor Roll Seniors Gina Armour – G, Laura Byl – G, Brianna Dietmeier, Melissa Erickson – R, Megan Hacker – G, Russel Harr, Casey Hatten – R, Aalyssa Holdt, Brett Holdt, Tanya Holm – G, Iner Jeppesen – R, Cassie Johnson, Kelly Johnson – G, Mitchell Klatt – R, Karen Lund – R, Jordyn McGinnity – G, Tyler Otlo – G**, Sarah Petersen – G, Tyler Petersen, Mason Potvin, Chelsea Rasmussen – G, Wally Rich – G, Cody Richert, Ashley Schebo – G, Franziska Schmidt – R**, Lacy Sellent – G, Emily Smith, Briana Stage – R, Cole Wickstrom – R, Samantha Wickstrom – R. Juniors Adam Anderson, Clare Cadogan – R, Shuqing Chen – G, Christine Franzel – G, Kaleb Harr, Keighley James – R, Grace Jenson – R, Melissa Jenssen – G, Kasey Johnson, Alyssa Lehmann – G, Derek Letch – G, James Longhenry – G, Hannah Melin – G**, Nick Morgan – R, Brennan Olson – G, Ashley Overby – G, Megan Panek – G, Jenny Roettger – G, Chantalle Rowley – G**, Marnie Rozumalski – G, Krystal Stage – R, Ariel Thompson, Joe Thompson, Ashley Valentine – R, Justin Virkus – R.

Sophomores Derek Buck – R, Samantha Fenning – R, Taylor Horsager – G, Kassi Ingram – G, Diana Kufalk – R, Peter Langeness – G, Mitchell Larson – G, Aleah Lemieux – R, Mary MaidenMueller – G, Bailee Swenson, Rachel Virkus – G. Freshmen Karie Bartlett – R, Morgan Denny – G, Sarah Elert – G**, David Franzel – G, Karissa Giller – G, Logan Hacker – G, Kyle James – G, Brady Klatt – G, Nick Leal – R, Megan Moore – G, Alec Mortel – R, Cole Mortel – G, Kasey Ouellette – R, Ashlyn Petersen – G, Adrian Riedman – R, Sammie Schallenberger – R, Landen Strilzuk , A. J. Walsh-Brenizer, Kristine Wortman – R. Honorable Mention Seniors Chelsie Anderson, Jessica Antonson – R, Brian Benson, Darcy Brenholt, Britta Giller – R, Hannah Goneau, Jordan Gross, Sami Talmadge.

Juniors Jerod Buck – R, Brittney Danielson – R, Brett Larson – R, Christian McCabe – R, Jimmy Mellon – R, Andy Wortman.

Luck’s second-quarter academic letter-earners are shown front row: Peter Langeness, Diana Kufalk and Mitchell Larson. Back row: Mary MaidenMueller, Kelly Johnson, Rachel Virkus and Kassi Ingram. Missing: Jenny Roettger, Laura Byl, Briana Stage, Cole Wickstrom and Taylor Horsager. – Photo submitted

Sophomores Bryson Clemenson – R, Joe Dahlke – R, Carson Giller – R, Jake Monahan – R, Taryn Pilz – R, Brianna Rooney – R, Aaron Sorenson.

Freshmen Bryce Amlee – R, Stacie Buck – R, Paige Hacker, Monique Meyer – R, Gena Pearson – R, Tabitha Pilz, Chris Spencer – R, Roger Steen – R, Kelly Stokes – R**.

Additional Red Cards Seniors Kody Erickson, Harlan Opitz, Ben Panek, Matt Petersen.

Juniors Aushleana Branville, Jared Jensen, Tim Kowalik, Dakota Krout, Harry SeversonDickinson.

Sophomores Gary Ekholm, Sabrina Lane, Jordan Lundmark **, Jason Nelson.

Freshmen Devon Nelson, Danny Salas, Jade Schrock, Alex Wilkinson.

Cardinal cards Seniors Steven Ball, Travis Close Juniors Brittany Douglas, Melita Ericksen, Jeff Gackle Sophomores Chris Aldrich, Nick Emerson, Lakeysha Schallenberger, Amanda Shannon, Collin Svoboda Freshmen Neal Mellon, Devonte Morales, Mykayla Naughton * indicates that this is the first time the student has earned this higher level of card The Cardinal Intelligence Agency was created at Luck High School 17 years ago as a program to recognize and reward student achievement. As a part of this program, the students who demonstrate academic excellence and positive behaviors are recognized with short-term, tangible rewards - just as is done in the business world with employees. The incentives, which have been provided through the generosity of local businesses and individuals, are awarded on a quarterly basis.

According to the district motto, “Luck School prepares lifelong learners and responsible citizens,” the Cardinal Intelligence Agency attempts to promote this goal by recognizing students’ per-

fect attendance and requiring that positive behavior be one of the cornerstones of the C.I.A. program.

Gold Card: Students earning this card are fulltime regular education students who have an Aor better GPA, no incompletes or failing grades, one or fewer disciplinary referrals, no extracurricular code violations, no unserved detentions, no unexcused absences, and no suspensions.

Red Card: Students earning this card are fulltime regular education students who have a B- or better GPA, no incompletes or failing grades, two or fewer disciplinary referrals, no extracurricular code violations, no unserved detentions, no unexcused absences, and no suspensions.

Cardinal Card: Students earning this card are full-time regular education students who have a Cor better GPA, no incompletes or failing grades, three or fewer disciplinary referrals, no extracurricular code violations, no unserved detentions, no unexcused absences, and no suspensions.

Academic news Minnesota State Mankato announces the dean’s list for the past fall semester.

Students qualify for the high honor list by achieving a 4.0 straight A average, while students who earned a 3.5 to 3.99 average to qualify for the honor list. The following students have qualified for the dean’s list: sophomore Samantha Falck – honor, senior Samuel Pertz – honor and senior Erik Teig – honor, Amery; senior Sara Jo Kuntz – honor, Clayton; ; senior Aaron Hoefs – honor, St. Croix Falls; and freshman Kayla Scheps – honor, Turtle Lake. – submitted ••• MADISON – Local students that received degrees during the UW-Madiwinter commencement son’s ceremonies, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2007 are: Amery Thomas Hegg, economics/bachelor of science.

Centuria - Alexander Pope-Heinrich, botany/bachelor of arts.

Danbury - Elyse Anderson, occupational therapy/master of science.

Siren - Nicole D’Jock, communication arts/bachelor of arts. - submitted

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

“Back to the ‘80s … the Totally Awesome Musical!” coming to Unity BALSAM LAKE – On March 7, Unity High School will travel back in time to the decade that brought us the Rubix cube, stone-washed jeans, ultra-high Aquanet bangs and mullet haircuts.

Though the styles may have changed, the music will remain with us forever!

Through the music of the ‘80s, the audience will relive a year in the life of an average teenage guy who falls in love with the girl next door, but has to fight the school’s coolest jock for her attention.

Unity’s drama department presents “Back to the ‘80s…the Totally Awesome Musical!” Friday, March 7, and Saturday, March 8 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, or by calling the Unity High School office at 715-825-2101. – submitted

Unity High School theater arts students rehearse to the song “Footloose” from the musical, “Back to the ‘80s.” The musical will be performed at the Unity High School auditorium on Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 9, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, or by calling the Unity High School office at 715-825-2101. – Photos submitted

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

OBITUARIES Geraldine M. Ramsdell Geraldine M. Ramsdell, 80, a resident of Siren, died Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, at her home surrounded by her family.

Geraldine was born on March 28, 1927, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Mauritz and Della Daniels. On Dec. 7, 1948, she married Bill Ramsdell in Center City, Minn.

Geraldine worked at Capeside Cove Good Samaritan Center as a nursing assistant for 17 years. For 19 years, she owned and operated Bill’s Inn in Siren.

In addition to her working outside the home, she was a full-time homemaker at home to her husband and seven children. Geraldine was a member of the Lund Brown Legion Auxiliary in Siren and a member of Bethany Lutheran Church.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brothers, Vernon and Melvin Daniels; and great-grandchild Jaidan Lea Quirk.

She is surivived by her children, Jean (Larry) Swanson of Lauderdale, Minn., Jill (Jim) Anderson of Green Bay, Jeff Ramsdell of Brooklyn Park, Minn., Joe (Twyla) Ramsdell of Luck, Janis (Dave) Wegner of Siren, Jon (Tammy) Ramsdell of Abilene, Kan., and Judi (Mike)

Vasatka of Siren; 17 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, James, Addison and Caleb; sister, Dorothy Berget of Brooklyn Park, Minn.; sisters-in-law Ally Ramsdell, Ethel Daniels, JoAnne Daniels; brothers-in-law, Corkey (Norie) Ramsdell and other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 20, at Bethany Lutheran Church, with Pastor John Clasen officiating. Music was provided by organist, Fran McBroom. Interment followed at Lewis Cemetery in Clam Falls Township. Casket bearers were her grandchildren, Trevor, Torrey, Wes, Isaac, Jered, Justin, Sam, Ben, Lance, Richelle, Sophie, Renee, Vanessa, Andie Rose, Josiah, Natalie and Silas.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Bernice “Bunny” J. Springer Bernice “Bunny” J. Springer, 89, of Danbury, died Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2008, in Spooner. Bunny was born Feb. 7, 1919, in Swiss Township, to Elizabeth (nee Bartosh) and Charles Cadotte. She married Harvey L. Springer in August 1935.

Bunny was raised by Gust and Mary Cadotte, after her mother’s death at the time of her birth. Bunny grew up and lived her entire life in Danbury. She was a member of the Danbury Lions Club.

Bunny served on the council at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Danbury, and was chairperson for the St. Croix Elders. For many years Bunny was a foster grandparents with the Great Lakes Inter-tribal Council Lac du Flambeau at Danbury and Webster Schools.

Bernice was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1999; son, Raymond Springer; brother, John; sisters, Jessie, Dolly and Ellen; granddaughter, Cheri Springer.

Bunny is survived by sisters, Cecelia, Erma, Gladys, Eva, Bernice, Stella and Martha; brother, Ivan; three grandchildren, Angela, Tanya and Rhonda; three great-granchildren, Katrina, Gavin and Samara; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held for Bernice “Bunny” on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Danbury, with Father Mike Tupa officiating. Music was provided by Kim Dropps. Casket bearers were Charles Cadotte, Klaus Nieder, Russell Estridge, Stanley Grygelko, Bruce Leonhardi and Anthony Grygelko, with honorary casket bearers Larry Gmeiner, James Grygelko, Kevin Grygelko and Sonny Lunsman.

Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Dennis E. Michael Dennis E. Michael, 68, died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008, at Willow ridge Heathcare, surrounded by his family, after a six-year battle with lung disease.

Dennis was born on Jan. 5, 1940, to Ervin and Blanche Michael in Marshfield. His family later moved to Osceola, where he spent his childhood. He enjoyed farm work and loved his part as a farm laborer with Arnold Otto Farms, as well as with Art Everson Farms. He enjoyed farm life and all it had to offer.

On Nov. 5, 1966, he was united in marriage to Donna Marie. To their union, twin daughters were born, Debra Ann and Denise Marie.

Dennis and Donna spent the first years of their married life with their girls in Clear Lake. Dennis again found his delight working on the family farm in Clear Lake.

In June of 1970, he began employment with F & A Dairy and moved his family to Dresser. He was employed there until

he was forced to retire in 2002, because of lung disease.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 41 years; twin daughters, Debra of Amery and Denise (Derek) Olson of Balsam Lake; his father and mother-in-law, Donald and Ruby Thompson of Amery; sister-in-law, Sue Thompson of Hopkins, Minn., Laurie (Randy) of Amery; nieces and nephews and special cousin, Louise (George) Bagley of Osceola.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, March 1, at Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser.

Grandstand Funeral Home was entrusted with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

OBITUARIES Larry (Tuck) Hunter Larry B. Hunter, 79, longtime resident of Luck and Iron River, died Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008, at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, Feb. 28, at 1 p.m., at the St. Croix Good Samaritan Chapel, next to Polk County Fairgrounds.

Dorothy M. Fahland Dorothy M. Fahland, resident of Comforts of Home in Frederic, died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2008, at the age of 89.

Dorothy was born Sept. 16, 1918, to Alan L. and Marie (Jenssen) Fahland. She graduated from Frederic in 1937, and was a lifelong resident of Frederic.

Dorothy farmed most of her life on the family farm, which was called Springhill Farm and was a Century Farm.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Arthur and Charles Fahland and Martha Graham.

She is survived by her sisters, Mary E. Fahland of Lewis, Janet M. Knight of St. Paul, Minn., and Edith Fleming of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 29, at 11 a.m., at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Frederic, with Father Dennis Mullen officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Lewis Cemetery in the spring.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with the arrangements.

Gayle “Abbie” McQuay Gayle Lorin McQuay, 56, Vancouver, Wash., died Jan. 24, 2008, in Portland, Ore. She was born in Grantsburg on Oct. 13, 1951, to Kenneth Joel McQuay and Eleanor Johnson McQuay. She graduated from St. Croix Falls High School in 1969. In 1970, she was united in marriage to Eugene Olson. To this union two children were born, Nikole and Matthew. Gene died in a car accident in 1977. In 1978, Gayle and her children moved to Vancouver, Wash.

Gayle married Larry Rainey in Vancouver in 1980. To this union two children were born, Joshua and Jessica.

Gayle worked in many occupations. For many of these years she worked at the racetracks of the region: Portland Meadows, Longacres and Emerald Downs.

Most recently, she ran a successful cleaning company.

Gayle loved working outside, giving parties and cooking for others. She will be greatly missed by her children; Nikole (Michael) Hall of Washougal, Wash., Matthew (Ella Wilson) Olson of Vancouver, Wash., Joshua (Jaime) Rainey of Vancouver, Wash., and Jessica (Kevin Palmer) Rainey of St. Paul, Minn.; and her grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Brennan Hall, Charles, Josh and Alex Wilson, Julia and Jaden Rainey and Kaleb Palmer; sisters, Karen (Gary) Johnson of Cushing, Cheryl (Scott) Olson of Cushing, Lori (Randy Harrison) McQuay of Woodland, Wash., and Beth (Nick Corniel) McQuay of Cushing; and brothers, Calvin McQuay of Grantsburg and Kevin McQuay of St. Croix Falls, as well as special nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, other relatives and many friends.

There was a Celebration of Gayle’s life on Saturday, Feb. 2, in Portland, Ore., and a memorial service on Feb. 16, at the First Lutheran Church in Cushing.

Gerald W. Anderson Gerald W. Anderson, 54, of Frederic, died Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, at St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Gerald was born on Jan. 5, 1954, in Chicago, Ill., to Gordon and Elverna Anderson.

Gerry worked at DSI in Siren, for just short of 30 years.

Gerry was preceded in death by his father.

He is survived by his mother; brothers and sisters, Betty (Mike) Soine, Robert (Linda) Anderson, MaryAnn (Richard) Stone, Jim Anderson, Patty (Ron) Fredericks, Richard Anderson, Linda (Jeff) Clausen and Karen (Steve) Edgell and many nieces and nephews as well as grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, Feb. 28, at 3 p.m., at St. Luke United Methodist Church, with Pastor Freddie Kirk officiating. Pallbearers will be his brothers, Robert and Richard Anderson, Mike Soine, Ron Fredericks, Jeff Clausen and Steve Edgell.

Jeanette Marie Lunsmann

Donald L. Lund

Jeanette Marie Lunsmann, 75 of Centuria died on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, at the St. Croix Falls Regional Medical Center. All services are pending. Full obituary will be in an upcoming edition.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home, Centuria, was entrusted with arrangements.

Donald L. Lund, 89, died Feb. 18, 2008, in St. Paul, Minn.

Donald Lund was born on Jan. 8, 1919 to Louis and Hazel Lund of Polk County. After completing school, he spent time in California. From there he was inducted into the Army. He was discharged after serving six years.

In June of 1946, he was married to Evelyn Wassberg.

They had two sons, Steven and Kevin.

Most of his adult life was spent working on his dairy farm. After leaving the farm, he spent his time working for the township of St. Croix Falls. After retiring from the township, he and his wife spent many years on the beach in Florida.

He is survived by his wife; sons, Steven (Wanda) from Naples, Fla., and Kevin from St. Croix Falls; grandchildren, Brian (Melissa) Lund of Bloomington, Ind., Dr. Greg (Angela) Lund of Madison, Sarah, David and Lauren Lund of St. Croix Falls; two great-granddaughters, Anna and Madelyn Lund of Bloomington, Ind.; brothers and sisters, Vernon of Oregon, James of Colorado, Clarice of Frederic, Geralyn of Comstock and Merlyn of Naples, Fla., and cousins, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Bethesda Lutheran Church with Pastor Richardson officiating. Interment was at Bethesda Cemetery.

The Edling Funeral Home of St. Croix Falls was entrusted with the arrangements.

Rachelle E. Stellrecht Rachelle E. Stellrecht, age 89, died Monday, Feb. 18, 2008, in Spooner.

Rachelle was born June 10, 1918, to Napoleon and Louise (Tetrault) Durand. Rachelle married Milton Stellrecht on Oct. 11, 1941, in Pine City, Minn.

Rachelle enjoyed sewing, gardening, baking and reading. Rachelle was a dedicated member of her church, St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, and active with the church Presentation Group. She enjoyed membership with the Green Grove HomeMakers.

Rachelle was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Milton; sisters, Clemenancy Pratt, Gertrude Quirk and Lucille Peck; and an infant brother and sister.

Rachelle is survived by children, Marie Bassett of Spooner, Dale (Lois) Stellrecht of Spooner and Evelyn Taylor of Maple Grove, Minn., sisters, Dorothy Chamberlain of Greenville, Tenn., Bernadine Harris of Minneapolis, Minn., Irene Harris of Hastings, Minn. and Elsie Stellrecht of Shell Lake; brothers, Edward Durand of Spooner and Wilfred (Judy) Durand of Spooner; 10 grandchildren, Kevin Bassett, Karie (Don) Taylor, Kent (Kim) Bassett, Kristy Bassett, Jo Anne (David) Irvine, Jodi Stellrecht, Jill (Bert) Groenheim, Dale Stellrecht Jr., Joseph (Renee) Taylor and James Taylor, 11 greatgrandchildren, Jenna, Emmie, Jack, Michael, Jessica, Jordan, Zachary, Tyler, Adam, Joshua and Ashley; and many nephews and nieces.

Mass of Christian burial was held Thursday, Feb. 21, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Spooner with Father Andrew Ricci officiating. Music was provided

by Sr. Dominica Effertz and the St. Francis Choir. Interment followed at Greendale Cemetery in Rusk Township. Casket bearers were Kent Bassett, Joe Taylor, Jim Taylor, Dale Stellrecht Jr., Wesley Stellrecht, Wally Stellrecht, Don Taylor and Michael Irvine.

The Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home, Spooner, was entrusted with arrangements.

Elvina Loretta Simon Hansen Elvina Loretta Simon was born March 8, 1923, at Browersville, Minn. The first daughter of James and Elizabeth Simon in a family of 15 children. In 1931, at the age of 8, the family moved to the Mamie Peterson farm north of Grantsburg, where they farmed. Elvina attended the Freya School, where she graduated at the age of 14. She was a great help in taking care of her younger brothers and sisters.

In 1941, the family bought land and built a house and barn 1-1/2 mile north.

In 1947, Elvina married Dave Johnson. She worked cleaning the post office and the church. She also worked at McNally Industries. Dave died in 1972.

In 1980, Elvina married Clayton Hansen. They enjoyed vacationing out west, bird watching, drives in the country, family gatherings and church. She will be greatly missed by her sisters and brothers, nieces and nephews and her many friends.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, at Grace Baptist Church in Grantsburg, with Pastor David Ahlquist officiating. Interment was held at the Wood River Baptist Cemetery.

The Edling Funeral Home of Grantsburg was entrusted with the arrangements.

Corrections Memorial services for Marjorie R. Pearson were held Monday, Feb. 25, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren not Tuesday, Feb. 19, as listed in the last week’s paper.

The obituary published last week for Duane Dean Sandberg, inadvertently excluded two surviving sisters, Beverly Bue and Marlene (Dean) Dahlberg.

The obituary published for Gayle “Abbie” McQuay in last week’s Leader listed the wrong cause of death. The obituary has been re-published elsewhere on this page.

Logan Taylor Louis Logan Taylor Louis, 6, of Grantsburg, died on Feb. 19, 2008, at the Amery Regional Medical Center due to illness.

He was born on the morning of Aug. 15, 2001. He weighed 9 lbs, 7 ounces.

Logie, as he was also called, completed kindergarten at Grantsburg Elementary School, and this year was enrolled in first grade in Clear Lake Elementary School, where his parents farm.

He was an inquisitive boy and fascinated by the littlest things in life. He was a short and skinny with great-big blue eyes and a wide smile. He had a real love for sharing his things. He was interested in the mysteries of his world and constantly asked questions.

The American author Mark Twain wrote about little Logan, in a manner of speaking. Logan was reminiscent of Twain’s famous character, Tom Sawyer. It was Tom, who was always convincing the other kids to do his chores and convincing them it was fun. Logan had that Tom Sawyer quality, especially in baseball, where he always convinced the other players it would more fun if he hit the ball and they ran for it.

He is survived by his father and mother, Corey and Stacie Louis, of Grantsburg; an older brother, Walker Louis; and lots of family, too numerous to mention.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Edling Funeral Home, Grantsburg.

Mary Ann Welu Mary Ann Welu, resident of Luck, died Saturday, Feb. 23, 2008, at the age of 80.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Darlene (Gary) Thompson, Cynthia (Jeffrey) Olson and Darla (Earl) Nick; 17 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren and sister, Katherine Paulsen.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 27, at Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, with Rev. Mary Ann Bowman officiating. Interment was at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

A complete obituary will follow at a later time.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck was entrusted with the arrangements.

Mariette Tyberg Mariette Tyberg, 91, of Grantsburg, died on Monday, Feb. 25, 2008, at Burnett Medical Center at Grantsburg.

Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 28, from 6-8 p.m., at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Siren Chapel.

Funeral services will be on Friday, Feb. 29, at 1 p.m., at the Calvary Covenant Church at Alpha, with a time of gathering for one hour prior to the services.

A complete obituary will appear at a later date.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

CHURCH NEWS The treadmill takes tenacity

saves us. That is, if we are obedient to it.

Notice what the inspired writer of Hebrews says about God’s word. “For the word of God Do you realize how powerful God’s spoke is living and active and sharper than any word is? In fact, God spoke the world into two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the existence: 9 Times in Genesis chapter 1 you division of soul and spirit, of both joints and will find the phrase “Then God Said…” marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and By the word of the LORD the heavens intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) were made, And by the breath of His mouth In John 18:10 we are told that Peter used a all their host. (Psalms 33:6) …by the word physical sword and struck the high priest’s of God the heavens existed long ago and the servant, cutting off his right ear; but on PenteGarret cost earth was formed out of water and by water, (Acts 2:37-41), Peter used the sword of the (2Peter 3:5) By faith we understand that the Derouin Spirit, the Word of God, and some 3,000 hearts worlds were prepared by the word of God, were pricked… added to the church… and so that what is seen was not made out of saved as a result. things which are visible. (Hebrews 11:3) THE In the same way, if you will allow the powSimilarly, the universe is sustained by the word of God to prick your heart… then erful word of God: God… upholds all things by PREACHER’S respond as those who asked Peter, “what shall the word of His power. (Hebrews 1:3) But we do” to be saved? “Repent, and each of you

by His word the present heavens and earth be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the are being reserved for fire, kept for the Day forgiveness of your sins; you too can be added of Judgment and destruction of ungodly to the saved.” (Acts 2:38) So then, those who men. (2Peter 3:7) had received his word were baptized; and that day Illustrating the Power of the spoken word of God, we there were added about three thousand souls. (Acts can recall how Jesus spoke and performed miracles. 2:41) He spoke and the sea became still, the sick were By studying the powerful word of God you can healed, the lame and maimed were made to walk, and show your self approved as a workman of God, and the dead were raised. then always be ready to give an answer to those who Paul affirms the power of God’s holy word when he ask you about it. (2Timothy 2:15) writes, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is By understanding the powerful word of God you the power of God for salvation to everyone who be- can walk as the wise do and make the most of all the lieves, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (Ro- time you have in life, and be able to say with confimans 1:16) This passage affirms that the Gospel is dence that you are not ashamed of the Gospel, for you THE (exclusive, one and only) power of God unto sal- know that it is THE POWER of God for salvation! vation.

If readers have questions or simply wish to know I find it very interesting that the Greek word for more about the Church of Christ, we would like to in“power” in this passage is from the word, “dunamis” vite them to call 715-866-7157 or stop by the church – from which we get our words – dynamic, dynamo, building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible and dynamite. This really puts into perspective the class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 powerful nature of God’s almighty word. Paul tells us a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Ofin 1Corinthians 1:18 that the preaching of the cross fice hours are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. may be foolishness to some… but for the saved, it is noon. “the power of God”. God’s Word is so powerful, it

Dyn-O-Mite!

There are two distinct deer paths leading from the woods into my backyard to the piles of deer food I put out once a day. The paths are so worn down and precise, they reSally Bair mind me of my worn-down treadmill. Several times a day the deer come to check out the food piles.

Don’t they know morning from af- PERSPECTIVES ternoon? Or do they come hoping to be surprised with extra rations?

I give the deer credit for being so tenacious. They set a good example for me in my own treadmill schedule. Our reasons to use the treadmill paths differ. They tread to the feed so they can increase body fat. I tread so I can remove body fat.

Come to think of it, though, I also use the treadmill to put on spiritual fat. Walking on a treadmill can be boring. But when I talk with God or memorize his word, the time flies. Before I know it, I’m revitalized—body, soul, and spirit.

The Bible includes many references to being tenacious – or persevering – in our Christian walk. Perseverance is required in loving and being patient with others. It is required by all of us who choose to walk the narrow path of faith in Christ. Jesus said, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14) The Old Testament Israelite, Job, persevered in his faith through terrible trials. Though despondent and full of self-pity, he would not deny God as his creator and savior. “You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” (James 5:11) When the early Christian church was birthed on Pentecost, the new converts started the daily habit of treading on a new path. “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayer.” (Acts 2:42) Just as the deer use their own treadmill path, followers of Christ must “continue steadfastly” in the use of their spiritual treadmill paths.

Lord, help us today to walk steadfastly in your path— eating your word, being in fellowship with other followers, learning more about you, and praying for others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

ETERNAL

Bluegrass gospel comes to Dresser DRESSER – Bluegrass fans, mark your calendars. On Saturday, March 29, entertainment and inspiration will harmonize when the King’s Countrymen, a popular bluegrass gospel group, bring their unique talents to Dresser.

Peace Lutheran Church is pleased to host the all-family event, which promises to delight people of all ages with a special blend of music, humor and testimony.

The group is based in Modovi in west central Wisconsin, and since their union in 1994, the foursome has performed at many events including fairs, festivals, retirement centers, churches and Bible camps throughout the upper Midwest. They also host the Buffalo River Valley Bluegrass Gospel Festival held at Shady Lane Acres, near Mondovi, the last weekend in July every year. Making up the King’s Countrymen are Lorn Schultz, lead vocal and rhythm guitar; George Cordwell, vocals and upright bass; Rosalie Johnson, vocals and fiddle; and Dan Cavanaugh, banjo. Kristi Schultz and Jim Williams serve as the group’s sound technicians.

The King’s Countrymen will stage their uplifting performance at 7 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Peace Lutheran Church. Tickets for the one-night event are $5 and can be purchased in advance this fundraiser will benefit the church’s mission/benevolences. For additional information, please call the church office at 715755-2515. – submitted

PEN

It’s almost March. With March comes St. Patrick’s Day, Palm Sunday, Easter and springing ahead to daylight saving time. Honestly, I can’t remember, is daylight saving time in the fall or the spring? Do we fall into it or do we spring into it? I tell you, my memory is fading fast.

Barb I will often be talking and come Blodgett to a word I can’t remember. It is usually a common, everyday word and I can see it used in context, but, as I talk, I think, what is the word? What am I trying to say? I know it, but I can’t think of it. I always want to say, and often do say, “Help me out here. You know what I mean, so tell me what it is.”

I would like to think that my memory is not as good as it used to be because my head is so full of knowledge I can’t sort it all out. My grandmother-in-law would say, “piffle,” meaning that I am covering up for the real reason. She was great with piffle. You might state a fact and know it is a fact, but if she thought it might not be – a fact – she would say, “Oh, piffle.” Piffle was nonsense and her way of telling us she thought what we were saying was utterly nonsense. Sometimes when I am talking about something very serious and can’t remember a word, I say, “Oh, piffle.” In this case it means “oh, darn.”

How do I always get off the subject? (Which, by the way, drives No. 1 darling husband crazy). I do it out of self-defense. When I run into a word I can’t think of, I go off in another direction and talk about something I do know the words to. Often, this can confuse people and they then don’t really listen, they just look at me

Caregiver’s GIFTS

funny. Now that I have admitted that my memory is slipping and I often need help with words I can’t think of, and I depend on help from whomever I happen to talk to, you might want to keep that in mind if you should meet me on the street. Just look at me and either hope I don’t want to stop and talk, or think, oh, oh, this is the lady who has no idea what she is talking about. Not a good reputation for a public speaker is it? Oh, drivel!

Have you been to the new Pines Thrift Store? If not, you have missed a treat. It is a fun place to be because you walk in thinking…just another thrift store and it isn’t just another at all. It is a lovely place with really nice stuff. I love stuff. My husband loves old stuff and at the store we can find both. Come in and meet Lisa, our manager. She is so sweet you can’t help but like her and she does a great job.

There will be a ribbon cutting this Saturday and on April 4 and 5 there will be a grand opening. Here I will add a footnote, (although it is not really a footnote because it is in the story and not after it), we need donations. Clothes, household goods, toys, baby clothes and stuff will all be taken with many thanks. If you don’t want it or it doesn’t fit, just bring it in. Interfaith Caregivers will be so grateful.

See you next month, God bless.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Violence in TV and movies is disturbingly popular Q: What’s the appeal of all this human suffering and violence on television and in movies? Why do people want more of it?

DR. DOBSON: I’m sure it has something to do with our desire for excitement and our need to escape from the boring existence many people experience. But, I have to admit I don’t fully understand it. It is difficult to comprehend why people enjoy watching such bloody events. A number of years ago, the No. 1 television program in the entire year, watched by more people than all the sporting events or any other single program in the course of the 12-month period, was “Helter Skelter,” the story of the Charles Manson family. One incident in that TV special was the murder of a woman, eight months pregnant, who was brutally stabbed in the abdomen. Why would anyone want to see such brutality? The popularity of that program and others like it speaks dramatically about the depravity of the American people and our lust for violence.

••• Q: As a single mother, I’d like to leave my children with friends or relatives for a few days and get some time for myself, but I’m worried about how this might affect them. Will they feel deserted?

DR. DOBSON: Not only is a brief time away from your children not likely to be hurtful it will probably be healthy for them. One of the special risks faced by single parents is possibility of a dependency relationship developing that will trap their children at an im-

mature stage. This danger is increased when wounded people cling to each other exclusively for support in stressful times. Spending a reasonable amount of time apart can teach independence and give everyone a little relief from the routine. Therefore, if you have a clean, safe place to leave your children for a week or Dr. James two, by all means, do it. You’ll be Dobson more refreshed and better able to handle your usual homework when you return.

••• Q: I have a very fussy 8-monthold baby who cries whenever I put her down. My pediatrician says she is healthy and that she cries just because she wants me to hold her all the time. I do give her a lot of attention, but I simply can’t keep her on my lap all day long. How can I make her less fussy?

DR. DOBSON: The crying of infants is an important form of communication. Through their tears we learn of their hunger, fatigue, discomfort or diaper disaster.

Thus, it is important to listen to those calls for help and interpret them accordingly. On the other hand, your pediatrician is right. It is possible to create a fussy, demanding baby by rushing to pick her up every time she utters a whimper or sigh. Infants are fully capable of learning to manipulate their parents through a process called reinforcement, whereby any behavior that produces a pleasant result will tend to recur. Thus, a healthy baby can keep her mother hopping around

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

her nursery 12 hours a day (or night) by simply forcing air past her sandpaper larynx. To avoid this consequence, it is important to strike a balance between giving your baby the attention she needs and establishing her as a tiny dictator. Don’t be afraid to let her cry an reasonable period of time (which is thought to be healthy for the lungs), although it is necessary to listen to the tone of her voice for the difference between random discontent and genuine distress. Most mothers learn to recognize this distinction very quickly.

When my daughter was 1 year of age, I used to stand out of sight at the doorway of her nursery for four or five minutes, awaiting a momentary lull in the crying before going to pick her up. By so doing, I reinforced the pauses rather than the tears. You might try the same approach.

••• 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 2007 James Dobson Inc., Distributed

by Universal Press Syndicate, 4520 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64111; 816-932-6600.

Brought to you by:

Siren/Lewis United Methodist Churches Siren, Wis.

Lewis, Wis.

World Day of Prayer service set for March 7 CENTURIA - A World Day of Prayer Service will be held on Friday, March 7, 1:30 p.m. at Fristad Lutheran Church, Hwy. 35 in Centuria. Everyone is cordially invited to attend. Refreshments will be served by the women of Fristad following the service.

This year’s theme is “God’s Wisdom Provides New Understanding,” written by WDP women in Guyana.

This is an annual ecumenical service with readers participating from community churches. The readings this

year will center on the Book of Job and also the story of Mary and Martha, friends of Jesus. An offering will be received to support programs especially aimed to help women and children in poverty in the U.S. and internationally.

The name Guyana means “land of many waters.”

This country has a tropical climate, is located on the northern coast of South America and has Brazil as its neighbor to the south. For cultural and historic reasons,

it is considered to be a part of the Caribbean. Kaieteur Falls is located in Guyana, with the highest single-drop waterfall in the world, five times higher than Niagara Falls. To see some spectacular waterfall views, go to www.Kaieteurpark.gov.gy. For futher information on World Day of Prayer go to www.wdpusa.org. Locally for information, please call Fristad Lutheran Church at 646-2357 or Fran McLeod, Coordinator at 485-3105. submitted

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ALL CASH CANDY ROUTE. Do you earn $800 in a day?

Your own local candy route.

Includes 30 Machines and Candy. All for $9,995. 1888-745-3358 MultiVend, LLC (CNOW) AMERICA’S FAVORITE COFFEE Dist. Guaranteed Accts. Multi-Billion $ Industry. Unlimited Profit PotenFree Info 24/7. tial.

1-800-729-4212. Continental Coffee. Min. investment $12,500 (CNOW)

MERCHANDISE SAWMILLS FROM ONLY $2,990.00 — Convert your LOGS TO VALUABLE LUMBER with your own Norwood portable band sawmill. Log skidders also available. www.norwoodsawmills.com/ 300N - FREE information: 1800-578-1363 - Ext: 300-N

PETS A.K.C. PUPS: Bassets, Beagles, Cockers, Labradors, Lhasa Apsos, Pomeranians, Schipperkes, Schnauzers, Springers. Terriers: Cairn, Rat, Westie, Yorkies. Gerald Schulz (920) 526-3512

TRAVEL IDLE HOURS RESORT Between Minocqua and Eagle River, Wisconsin.

Newer lakeside homes.

Summer family vacations waterskiing included. Spring, Fall getaways - fish, golf, relax.

(800) 221-7699 www.idlehours.com

SPRING GOLF TRIP! 4.5 hours south of Madison. $48-$55 per day includes unlimited golf with cart and lodging in new condos on the course. 1-800-233-0060 or www.golfnauvoo.com.

AUCTIONS 30 YEAR COLLECTION of Barbies and accessories.

Sports cards graded and autographs. www.colkev.com.

Auctioneer Kevin Goheen.

Wisconsin Lic. # 2332-052.

MULTIPLE PROPERTY REAL ESTATE AUCTION: March 8, 2008, North Branch, MN. Family Homes, Hobby Farms, Acreage, Commercial. Auction hotline!

1-866-248-7008 Code 7008 www.VandeKampAuction.co m. Licensed and Bonded.

ONLINE ATV AUCTION. 10 Days, 10 Photos, FREE LISTING! Use code “wnc” Buy and sell new/used power sports toys online. www.bigboysbid.com (320) 5878527 (CNOW)

SERVICES REACH OVER 2.5 MILLION readers for less than 50 cents per paper! Place your 25 word classified ad in over 170 newspapers statewide for only $80. Call Brian at (800) 261-4242, ext 18.

HELP WANTED DRIVERS: LOVE YOUR JOB! Bonus & Paid Orientation. 35-43 cpm. Earn over $1000 weekly.

Excellent Benefits. Class A and 3 mos recent OTR required. Melton Truck Lines. (800) 635-8669

ATTENTION OTR DRIVERS! Up to $3,000 Sign On. Regional or National.

Van/Flatbed/Reefer. Affordable benefits. 5% More Paid Miles. ROEHL, the take home more, be home more carrier. Students Welcome.

Class A req’d. Training avail(888) 867-6345. able.

GoRoehl.com (CNOW) DELIVER RVs FOR PAY! Deliver “new” RVs to all 48 states and Canada. Get paid to travel! For details log on to www.GoRVing4pay.com PRACTICAL MILES! WH Transportation, Inc. Consistent Miles! Regional/OTR Positions! Late model equipment! Most Friendly Environment around!

Company/Owner Operators.

Students Welcome! Must be 21, good MVR, Class A CDL (800) 314-5350 www.whtrans.com (CNOW) RV TRANSPORT COMPANY with offices in Indiana, California and Oregon is looking for 1 ton and larger trucks to deliver travel trailers and fifth wheels across the U.S. and Canada. We can get you home regularly. Call 1-866-764-1601 or submit an application at online www.qualitydriveaway.com

REAL ESTATE LAKE PROPERTY! Lake Iola Waupaca County. 2/3 Bed. Year Round Home.

100 ft. frontage. Walking distance to Glacierwood Golf Course. $134,900. (715) 281-5919 Valley Investment Properties (CNOW)

BUY NOW OR AUCTION 3/15/08 11:00 a.m. Beautiful Waterfront Home on GrassLake, Land-O-Lakes Area, Mile to Lac-Vieux-Desert. Appraised $400,000 www.stilesauction.com (920)373-6171 REG WJ 2407/2393 Terms: Cash or Major Credit Card, Checks Accepted with Proper I.D. 5% Buyer’s Premium. (CNOW)

NORTHWOODS ACREAGE $19,900! 50% Under assessed value! Mature pines & hardwoods, private building sites, frontage on quiet wildlife lake, next to miles of recreational water! Thou-

sand Lakes Realty, Inc. (866) 667-4460 www.1000lakes.com

WANT ADS AUCTION OF LAKE HOME will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 29, 2008, at the front entrance of the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake. The property at auction is 2222 75th Street, Luck, WI 54853, owned by the estate of Robert F. Strusz. A minimum bid of $172,609.62 shall be required. A cashier’s check of $18,000 shall be required as a down payment from the successful bidder at the auction. Call attorney Joseph Boles with inquiries, 715425-7281. 25-27Lp

WE HAVE PARTS for tractors, combines, machinery, hay equipment and more.

Used, new, rebuilt, aftermarket. Downing Tractor Parts, Downing, Wis., 877-5301010. www. asapagparts. com 32Ltfc OLDE ENGLISH BULLDOG PUPPIES, 5 males, 2 females, lots of wrinkles.

UTD vac., one-year health guarantee. Available March 15. Call 715-554-2043. 2530Lp

FEBRUARY 27, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Isiah Hoggatt has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Roderick and Aimee Hoggatt. Isiah enjoys phy ed, art and recess. He is a very caring student who treats others with kindness and respect. He works hard at every task asked of him and puts forth the effort needed to do his personal best. Isiah enjoys playing in the snow, soccer and would like to be a policeman.

Chris Maslowski has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Michelle Mesecher. Chris is a sincere young man who always does his best, works well with other students and independently. He is involved in farming, football and track. He enjoys racing and farming.

Cody Gruel has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Ray Gruel. Cody always has a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He is involved in football and track.

Cody enjoys fishing, UFC hunting, watching NFL and snowboarding. He plans on going into construction.

Cole Reichstadt has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in second grade and the son of Joseph and Carol Reichstadt.

Cole does excellent work in all of his classes. He is very helpful to his classmates and teacher. Cole likes gym, math and spelling. He likes to drive his go-cart and mini bikes. He also enjoys Star Wars computer games and Wii games.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Dillon McKenzie has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in kindergarten and the son of Jason McKenzie and Marta Kirkhorn. Dillon enjoys gym and computer lab in school. He is an excellent worker and gets along well with his classmates.

Isaiah Tretsven has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Monte and Debbie Tretsven. Isaiah is part of the CIA program and on the honor roll. He is very responsible, has a sense of humor and has a lot of very interesting knowledge. Isaiah is involved in 4-H and loves showing cattle at the fair. He does safety patrol, basketball and wrestling.

Isaiah enjoys farming and driving his tractors.

Sarah Petersen has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Maggie and Paul Peter-sen.

Sarah is on the honor roll and is class president. She is quick to smile and willing to help others, enthusiastic and enjoyable to teach. Sarah is involved in NHS, forensics, drama club, basketball, volleyball, track and works at the Bella Salon and The Scoop. She enjoys taking dance classes and spending time outdoors. She plans to attend Aveda Institute for cosmetology.

Dallas Carpenter has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Jerry and Carrie Carpenter. Dallas likes when recess is indoors because he gets to play with Legos and games on the new ActivBoard. He also enjoys sledding at school. Dallas likes to play with his cat, Shadow, enjoys video games, roller skating and ice skating.

Matt Larson has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Rick and Carol Larson. Matt plays football, hockey and track. He also plays in band.

Matt plays on the traveling hockey team in Wisconsin and Minnesota during the summer. Matt is a pleasure to have in class and always has a smile on his face.

Jerrica Jones has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Andrea and Kevin Jones. Jerrica has a horse named Sammy and her favorite pastime is riding horse and playing basketball. Jerrica is involved in basketball, JO volleyball, softball and 4-H. Her favorite subject is science. She enjoys middle school because of all the friends that she has made.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Trevor Larson has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He tries hard at everything he does. Trevor participates in discussions and is very knowledgeable about many topics. He is always willing to help a neighbor or the teacher. Trevor finishes all of his work. He loves animals and enjoys working on the farm.

Laura Skifstad has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Glen and Jerri Skifstad.

Laura strives to do her best at all times. She is adept at processing information and has a strong cando attitude. Laura is involved in basketball, track, hand bells, swing choir, band and youth group. She enjoys baking, playing sports and spending time with family and friends.

Vince Nasman has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. He is the son of Rick and Carolyn Nasman.

Vince has a great attitude, is a pleasure to be around and always has a smile on his face and a positive attitude toward whatever challenge he is facing.

Vince has worked hard to get his grades up this year and is doing very well. He is an active member of his class and was the face of the Dragon Cards that were sold by the football team in the fall.

Congratulations students on a job well done!

Emma Rachner has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in third grade and the daughter of Shawn and Brenda Rachner. Emma is a hard worker who always does her best on all her school work. She helps her teacher and classmates with whatever is needed. Emma takes piano lessons and is active in Girl Scouts.

Felicia Paulzine has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Jon and Angel Paulzine and Richelle Humphrey. Felicia is an excellent student who works hard and has earned excellent grades.

She is a multi-talented person with a beautiful singing voice. Felicia is involved in choir and basketball. She enjoys singing, writing and drawing.

James Wethern has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. He is a freshman and the son of Kim Flodin. James is doing great in all his classes. He is a very nice young man who has good values and a good work ethic. James is involved in basketball. He enjoys playing basketball and spending time with family and hunting. James would like to play basketball in college.

UNITY

Ivy Carnes has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of James and Sarah Carnes of Milltown. Ivy continually performs to the best of her ability. She is a very hard worker and a great role model and friend to others. Her smile each day is very contagious to everyone!

Ashley Johnson has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Dan and Charlene Johnson. Ashley has a happy-go-lucky, positive personality. She is kind towards her classmates and is a great role model. Ashley is a class leader and has a good attitude for school and adults.

Bryana Petersin has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. She is a freshman and the daughter of Laurie Turnblob and Robert Petersin. Bryana is courteous, inquisitive and an excellent student. She enjoys volleyball, music and shopping. After graduation she plans to attend a four-year college.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- FEBRUARY 27, 2008

FEBRUARY

WEDNESDAY/27 Balsam Lake

• American Red Cross CPR Infant/child class, 5:30-9:30 p.m., at the Polk County Red Cross office. Preregistration is requested, call Terry Anderson at 715-485-3025.

Coming events

Milltown • 4th-annual Women’s Retreat at Milltown Lutheran Church. Registration at 8:30 a.m. or preregister by calling 715-825-2453.

SUNDAY/2 Dresser

• All-you-can-eat breakfast, 8 a.m.-noon, at the VFW Hall.

Luck

• Earth Arts Life Drawing Co-op, 1-4 p.m., at Cafe Wren Community Room. Details at www.earthartswi.org or 715-488-2957.

Luck • Lent services at Bone Lake Lutheran Church, soup supper at 6 p.m., service at 6:45 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

Webster

• Bill Staines Family Concert at the Festival Theatre, 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, 888-887-6002 or www.festivaltheatre.org for more info.

• Prayer vigil for peace at the Methodist Church, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

THURSDAY/28

MONDAY/3

Balsam Lake

Amery

• American Red Cross CPR First Aid class, 5:30-8:30 p.m., at the Polk County Red Cross office. Preregistration is requested, call Terry Anderson at 715-485-3025.

• UWEX beef distance-education program: Program Basic Nutrition for the cow-calf herd at the government center, 715-485-8600, 800-528-1914.

• Sen. Harsdorf listening session at city hall, 8-9 a.m., 800-862-1092.

Frederic • Spades played, 1:30 p.m., at the senior center.

Grantsburg • Sen. Harsdorf listening session at the village hall, noon-1 p.m., 800-862-1092.

Dresser/St. Croix Falls • All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner benefiting the St. Croix Valley area Veterans Memorial fund drive, 4:30-7:30 p.m., at the VFW & ladies auxiliary, North Hwy. 35, Dresser.

Luck • Open Art Studio at the village hall, 9 a.m.noon. Contact Vivian, 715-472-8439 or Ann, 715-472-8319 for more info.

Frederic • 500 card night, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

St. Croix Falls

Luck

• Art Group, 9:30 a.m.-noon; knitting, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

• Grief and loss support group meeting at SCRMC, 2-3:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m., 715-4830272 for more info.

• Library and Museum Committee meeting at the village hall, 6:30 p.m.

St. Croix Falls • Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo, 11 a.m.-noon; crafts, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; 500 cards, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the senior center.

Siren • UWEX beef distance-education program: Program Basic Nutrition for the cow-calf herd at the government center, 715-485-8600, 800-528-1914.

FRIDAY/29 Amery

• Adult clogging at the senior center, 10:15 a.m.; tiny tot clogging at 10:55 a.m.

A morning frost and fog framed the bell tower at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Frederic, Monday. - Photo by Gary King

Grantsburg

Frederic

• Benefit for Scott & Michelle Johnson will be held at Crex Convention Center, 4 p.m.

• Share-a-lunch & celebrate March birthdays, noon, at the senior center.

MARCH

SATURDAY/1 Dairlyland

• Cozy Corner Trails, Inc., Annual Booya & Raffle at Hillside Inn, noon to 5 p.m.

Luck • Luck Youth Wrestlers Tournament, weighins 8-9 a.m., 715-554-2118 or 715-327-8580.

• Ice-fishing contest on Big Butternut, 8 a.m.3 p.m.

TUES.-THUR./4-13 St. Croix Falls

• “Charlotte’s Web” performance, Festival Theatre. For more info contact 715-483-3387, 888-887-6002 or www.festivaltheatre.org.

TUESDAY/4 Amery

• Stamping & scrapbooking at the senior center, 6 p.m.

• Swedish Club meeting featuring Show and Tell, 7 p.m., at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.

For more info call 715-269-5307.

Clam Falls • Coffee hour, 10 a.m., at the Lutheran Church.

Frederic • Eastern Star meeting at the Masonic Center, honor committee members, 7:30 p.m.

St. Croix Falls • Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo 11noon; crafts 11 a.m.-3 p.m., at the senior center.

Webster • Seventh- to 12th-grade spring concert at the high school, 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY/5 Amery

• Exercise at the senior center, 9 a.m.

Frederic • Blood pressure screening at Bremer Bank, Frederic, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., sponsored by Bremer Bank.

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

THURSDAY/6 Amery

• Birthday dinner, 11:45 a.m.; poker, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

Frederic • 500 Cards night, 6:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Diabetes Night Out: Living and Learning Diabetes program at the clinic, 5-7 p.m., 715483-0248, 800-828-3627.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

St. Croix Falls

• Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo 11noon; 500 cards and dominos 12:30-4 p.m.; 500 cards, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the senior center.

FRI. - SUN./7-9 Balsam Lake

• Sen. Harsdorf listening session at the village hall/library, 10:30-11:30 a.m., 800-08621092.

• “Back to the ‘80s!...the Totally Awesome Musical!” at Unity High School.

FRIDAY/7 Centuria

• World Day of Prayer service at Fristad Lutheran Church, 1:30 p.m. Call 715-646-2357 or 715-485-3105 for more info.