Leader|march 14|2007

INTER-COUNTY

‘Follow the Leader’

March 14, 2007 2 sections • Vol. 71 • No. 29 8,000 copies

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SECTION A

1

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Lehman posts $100,000 bond

Luck man facing homicide charge released from Polk County Jail Tuesday Page 3

Menards doors now open

Customer assistance

Grand opening week set for March 24 to April 1; details in story Page 15

Clinic fined $100,000 Judge hands down sentences in case of 7-year-old girl who died while being restrained Page 3

Webster school board handles personnel matters Teacher fights board’s nonrewal decision Page 7

Grantsburg Golf Course future depends on lease Decision due April 9

Page 6

Oxygen Network is coming to St. Croix Falls Television crew will film interviews for program on 1999 Krueger murder Page 3

A father holds his son up on his shoulders while looking at lawn seed at Menards. The store opened its doors to customers March 13. See story inside. - Photo by Tammi Milberg

72 years married OSCEOLA - Lute and Mayme Pettis have a marriage that is approaching world-record status.

It was 72 years ago this past Sunday that the couple tied the knot at a minister's home in Minneapolis.

“I married a cowboy,” Mayme said.

The year was 1935.

“I worked for $25 a month, stacking hay and breaking horses,” Lute recalls of his time on a ranch in South Dakota, prior to saying “I do.”

After that, it was a long string of jobs for him while she focused on schooling and a career as a hairdresser and homemaker.

Lute owned a welding shop in Osceola for years, and he tried his hand at being a black-

See 72 years, page 3

Lute and Mayme Pettis gathered with their children and family members Sunday at Dresser to celebrate their 72nd-wedding anniversary. - Special photo

A happy swan song

Snap Fitness is open

Tigers’ path ends

Currents feature

Page ..

Inside this sectioni

S E R V I N G

B U R N E T T

&

P O L K

SPORTS

C O U N T I E S

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Marine laid to rest Sgt. Chad M. Allen, 25, of Maple Lake, Minn., son of Steve Allen and Deborah Allen of Danbury, was laid to rest Saturday at the Northwest Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery in Spooner, following a service at his hometown of Maple Lake (photo).

Allen enlisted in the Marines the day after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks but didn’t go in until 2003, said his mother. “He was going to save his family from harm,” she told the Sgt. Allen Associated Press. Allen was killed Feb. 28 when a bomb exploded during combat operations in Anbar province in Iraq, according to the Department of Defense. Allen was assigned to the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, N.C. He volunteered for a second tour of duty in Iraq to take the place of an injured fellow Marine. His father said his son had told him Feb. 25 that he had been promoted to sergeant. The Patriot Guard, the motorcycle group which provides protection for the families at military funerals, was part of Sgt. Allen’s funeral at Maple Lake (shown in background in photo at left). That group’s membership is now at more than 83,000. A complete obituary for Sgt. Allen appears elsewhere in this issue of the Leader. - Photo at left courtesy Maple Lake Messenger

People flocking to flu shots in Polk County First flu death reported in state

by Julie Holmquist POLK COUNTY ¬ Close to 400 children and their parents flocked to flu shot clinics at the Polk County Health Department during the first half of February, even though the flu season

usually subsides by March.

“There's been a lot of traffic,” said Gretchen Sampson, public health director.

Even though it's late in the influenza season, Sampson said the recent deaths in Minnesota due to the flu may have spurred people to action. Area medical centers have also been busy giving influenza vaccinations, she said.

This year's flu season appears to be a little later than usual, Sampson said, and is expected to last through April.

The Osceola School District recently sent a letter to parents notifying them that students there had been diagnosed with influenza.

“I suspect we have flu activity in all the schools,” Sampson noted.

The first influenza-related death in

Where’s Rudolph?

Christmas lawn ornaments in Frederic got caught in the spring flood that occurred the past few days as temperatures rose into the 40s and 50s following a heavy snowfall a little more than a week ago. - Photo by Gary King

INTER-COUNTY

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Manager Doug Panek dougpanek@centurytel.net Editor Gary B. King, Editor gbking@centurytel.net Staff writers/contributors Matt Blumkin mblumkin@centurytel.net Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Nancy Jappe njappe@centurytel.net Sherill Summer the-leader@centurytel.net Mary Stirrat mstirrat@centurytel.net Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Julie Holmquist the-leader@centurytel.net Editorial assistant Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net Composition Raelynn Hunter Jackie Thorwick

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Wisconsin was reported in February in Vilas County by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. No details about that death were reported.

The number of people who actually become ill each season is unknown since flu is not a reportable disease.

The recent deaths of children in Minnesota may have made people become more aware of the seriousness of influenza, Sampson said.

“The number of pediatric deaths this year (due to influenza) is no different than any other year,” she said. “Every year 34,000 people across the country die from influenza, but the public is oblivious to that.”

Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches and pains. Flu illness ranges from very mild to severe cases, and in some cases, can cause life-threatening complications.

The sudden rush to get flu shots may mean people will be more apt to seek vaccinations earlier in the season next year, Sampson said.

“Maybe long-term behavior will change and people will remember how important it is,” she said.

Sampson noted that it hasn't been until recently that the health department recommended flu shots for healthy children and not just high-risk cases.

Usually the infectious season runs from November to March. The county health department was sure it would be throwing flu vaccine away, Sampson said, but then people rushed in for vaccinations.

Sampson reminds people to take basic precautions to stop the spread of the flu: stay home when sick, wash hands and cough into your sleeve.

“It's amazing how little people wash their hands,” she said.

The influenza vaccine is recommended for: • children 6 months to 5 years of age • people 50 years of age and older • people with underlying medical conditions such as asthma or heart disease • health-care workers • caregivers of infants and children • household contacts and caregivers of people at risk of developing complications due to influenza • pregnant women (research shows newborns may be protected from the flu for up to six months if the mother is vaccinated)

Clinic fined $100,000 in child's death BARRON - An area counseling clinic and one of its workers was sentenced Monday in the death of 7-year-old Angellika “Angie” Arndt.

Northwest Counseling and Guidance Clinic was fined $100,000 and $12,000 in court costs by Judge Edward Brunner.

The corporation pleaded no contest to one felony count of negligent abuse of a resident.

Employee Bradley Ridout, 29, was sentenced to 60 days in jail and one year probation.

Angie was restrained facedown on the floor of Northwest's Rice Lake Clinic by Ridout as clinic workers attempted to restrain the girl on May 26, 2006. Ridout, a Sunday School teacher, was charged with negligence, a misdemeanor, and faced up to nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine.

Judge Brunner called the death “a preventable tragedy,” according to a news report by the St. Paul Pioneer Press. He said the clinic used “some terrible practices” and “failed in its fiduciary duty to protect children.”

"If ever there was a case to impose the maximum, this is the case," he said.

During the trial a medical examiner testified that the 56-pound girl died when Ridout covered her body with his and held her head until she became quiet and listless. Prosecutor Frank Remington compared it to a “draconian physical hold” that led to death. "I don't know if they are truly remorseful, or if it's rehearsed. … They are morally, ethically and legally responsible," he said.

The defense argued that Northwest, a Frederic-based corporation - had gone beyond state recommendations to correct its policies and procedures and asked that the fine be limited to $25,000.

The corporation, which operates 11 daytreatment facilities, had been accused of failing to adequately train staff members on how to perform restraints. - with information from St. Paul Pioneer Press

w w w. t h e - l e a d e r. n e t

72 years/from page 1 smith, auto mechanic, jail inspector and a few other jobs along the way.

“I did everything but save money,” he mused. “The only success I had in anything was in my marriage.”

They agree they both “found the right person.”

In more than seven decades of wedded life, the couple can lay claim to 83 direct descendants - seven children, 23 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren and two greatgreat grandchildren. The couple feels blessed there have been no deaths among those descendants and both expressed pride in all of their children.

On their anniversary the couple was treated to a crowded celebration at the Village Pizzaria in Dresser, surrounded by family.

Attending the anniversary party, held at the Village Pizzieria, were Sherman (Elenore) of Osceola, Marlys (Dale) Haugen of Roberts, Gail (Howard, “Chuck”) Beaver of Ojibwe, Becky (Arvin) Larson of Osceola, Velma (Daryle) Larson of Saginaw, Mich., Mark (Joey) of Hertel, and David (Diane) of Osceola In a time when marriage is a dying institution and unions that endure for eight decades make the Guinness Book of World Records, the Pettis' - formerly of Hertel and now living in an apartment in Osceola know what they have is unique.

“It's true what they say about clearing up any issues before going to bed,” Mayme said. “We always did.” - Gary King

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Lehman released after posting bond Luck man accused of homicide posts $100,000 bond POLK COUNTY - A Luck man facing charges of first-degree intentional homicide was released from the Polk County Jail Tuesday after posting a cash bond of $100,000.

Timothy Lehman, 33, is accused of murder in connection with the death of Jason Madsen, 33, also of Luck.

Authorities believe Madsen's death

occurred either the evening of Feb. 16 or early Feb. 17, apparently after the Madsen and Lehman spent time at a Cushing bar on the evening of Feb. 16.

Polk County Judge Molly Lehman GaleWyrick set a cash bond of $100,000 at Lehman's initial court appearance. Bond conditions include a stipulation that Lehman not have any contact with Bridget Cleary,

identified in the criminal complaint as Madsen's girlfriend, or with Madsen's parents.

Because Lehman's home is next door to Cleary's home, and a block from the home of Madsen's parents in the village of Luck, the court also stipulated that Lehman cannot enter the village limits of Luck. It was suggested that Lehman could live with his parents in rural Luck.

The preliminary hearing in the homicide case is scheduled for 8:30 a.m., March 27 in Polk County Court, Branch One. - Julie Holmquist

County’s harvested timber brings $1 million Difficult market for wood contractors

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER -Burnett County received just over $1 million, $1,009,450.70, for stumpage payment from timber harvested from Burnett County forests in 2006.

That information is in the 2006 annual report of the Burnett County forest presented to the county's forestry committee by forest administrator Jason Nichols at a meeting held last Thursday, March 8, at the Webster Fire Hall.

A total of $100,945.07 of that money went to towns with county forestlands in them. In 2006, an estimated 25,694 cords and 221,000 board feet from 2,033 acres were harvested.

The committee extended three contracts that were to expire in April for one year without increasing their stumpage percentage paid ahead of time. Wood contractors are currently experiencing difficult market conditions, and they are looking for market conditions to improve before harvesting more timber in Burnett County.

Market conditions are poor because the construction slowdown is decreasing demand for finished wood product

Village moves forward with Main Street project

by Sherill Summer SIREN - The Siren Village Board moved forward with the Main Street construction project scheduled for this summer.

Contractors vying for the project were instructed to provide bids for either using brick pavers in certain areas of the sidewalk and crosswalks, or substituting colored stamped concrete in these areas of the sidewalk and crosswalk or substituting thermoplastic in the crosswalks with pavers in the sidewalk.

It was decided to use colored and stamped concrete in place of brick pavers in the sidewalk and crosswalks.

A-1 Excavating had the lowest bid and was awarded the project.

A preliminary resolution declaring intent to levy special assessment was also approved. The village engineer must now write an assessment report on what is to be assessed and assessment costs. A public hearing will then be set up. The assessment report must be provided to everyone who will be assessed at least 10 days before the public hearing, but it is possible that the public hearing will be before the April meeting. After the hearing the board will have a chance to adopt or modify the plan.

Ballpark agreement The board approved an agreement between the village and Siren Ballpark Inc. to oversee the Siren ballpark this year. The nonprofit organization will manage the activities, maintain the playing fields and be responsible for the general upkeep of the park. Siren Ballpark Inc. is also authorized to operate a concession stand, sell advertising around the park and charge fees to offset the cost of maintaining the park.

During this year’s tournaments, camping will be allowed on a trial basis as often all of the hotels in Siren are full during tournament weekends.

A maximum of 10 camping units will be allowed to stay at the park as long as other camping facilities are not available in the immediate Siren area.

Representatives of the ballpark are

responsible for collecting information of campers and vehicle registration to supply to the Siren Police Department.

Campers must observe a quiet time after 10 p.m. or no later than 1/2 hour after the end of the last ballgame, and no dumping of wastes or ashes is allowed. Campfires must be enclosed.

Camping at the ballpark during tournaments will be reviewed after one year, and all problems that may have taken place will be addressed.

Agreement with Siren Ballpark Inc. to manage the ballpark will run year to year and will be reviewed annually.

Siren Ballpark Inc. must submit an annual report by March 15 each year.

Revenue Bond for BMC The board acted on Burnett Medical Center's (BMC) request of securing a revenue bond for the amount of $4,850.

A public hearing for this request was held prior to the regular board meeting, however, no one attended.

The bond is needed for the BMC's expansion project. The financing for the project was divided between three bank-qualified entities, Burnett County and the village of Grantsburg being the other two.

The bond will not constitute any cost or indebtedness by the village, even in the event of a default by BMC. Other actions by the board Wade Wambolt was rehired as a part-time police officer. The village again will have five part-time officers.

The board approved two recommendations from the plan commission.

The survey map and the property owner's agreement were approved for properties owned by Jeff and Debra Hunter. A duplex is on the properties, and a wall in the duplex complex was approved. A survey map for a new lot owned by Richard Engstrom was also approved.

Action on the Class A off-sale permit sought by the Holiday Station has been postponed for one month.

causing the mills that make wood products to decrease the amount timber accepted from logging contractors.

In addition, the drought conditions have allowed for a longer harvest in areas that are often too wet to harvest, flooding the mills with raw timber.

Because much of Burnett County forest is in sand country, wet conditions do not hinder timber harvest.

The Burnett County Forestry Department will be audited this summer as a part of its certification under Wisconsin's sustainable forestry initiative, or SFI. The audit will examine Burnett County's timber sale management procedures.

Oxygen Network coming to SCF Showcasing Krueger murder story

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS-A television crew from the Oxygen Network will be in St. Croix Falls March 19-28, interviewing persons for a showcase on the Roland Krueger homicide that happened in Polk County in 1999.

David Lane and his crew from the Oxygen Network are putting together a show about the Krueger murder for their program “Snapped.”

Lane said they are interviewing persons who were affiliated with the case in some way, including law enforcement persons. The film crew is flying up from Knoxville, Tenn., on March 19 to begin the interviewing and filing process.

The Kruger murder took place in rural St. Croix Falls at the home of Roland and Mary Krueger, May 21, 1999. Mary Krueger, the prime suspect of the fatal shooting of Roland Krueger, was charged with the homicide in July 1999, but the charges against her were dismissed March 1, 2000.

In December 2002, Mary Krueger was again charged with first-degree intentional homicide and was found guilty of the crime by a jury on Oct. 6, 2003. She was sentenced to life in a state prison on Oct. 28, 2003, with parole left up to the Department of Corrections.

Lane said his camera crew has contacted Mary Krueger and she has agreed to be interviewed for the show. Krueger is in a state penitentiary in Florida, and Lane said they will be traveling to Florida to conduct the interview with Krueger shortly after they finish up their filming in St. Croix Falls.

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

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C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

New testing discussed at Unity

Public access to curriculum map available soon

by Mary Stirrat BALSAM LAKE — Unity School Board members got a hands-on presentation of the school’s new curriculum mapping system that will soon be available to the public via the district’s Web site.

Middle school principal and curriculum coordinator Elizabeth Jorgensen brought computers to the March 13 board meeting and, after a demonstration on the new system, let the board members do their own explorations.

The Atlas curriculum mapping system, which will launch to the public within a few weeks, provides an easy way to find out just about anything regarding what is being taught at Unity and when.

Information on the easily navigated program can be accessed by topic, grade level, class, teacher or subject.

Internally, the program allows school staff and administration an easy way to see where collaboration between classes or teachers can be or is taking place.

Gaps in the curriculum in relation to state standards will be more easily identified.

For the public, parents will be able to see what is being taught to their children and at which grade levels.

Community members can see where their particular interests or skills can possibly be used in the classroom.

Testing program A computerized testing program that would track the progress of each individual student was the topic of a presentation by elementary principal Wayne Whitwam.

Measures of Academic Progress, said Whitwam, is a program that offers testing three or four times a year to determine progress, strengths, and weaknesses of each student. School staff can tap into class summaries, grade level summaries, and districtwide summaries to see where changes and improvements in curriculum or teaching styles can be made.

Unity School Board President Debbie Peterson and board member Harley Lund explore the curriculum mapping program that will be up and running for the public in a few weeks. The program allows parents and community members to see what is being taught. - Photo by Mary Stirrat Tests are designed so no two persons will likely be answering the exact same questions, according to Whitwam. As a student correctly answers a question, he or she is moved to a more difficult question. If a question is answered wrong, the student is moved to an easier question. The final result is a defined competency for each student upon which teachers can build.

“The purpose of this test is truly internal,” said Whitwam. It is not used for comparison with other districts or states, but rather for making improvements in the educational system at Unity.

Studies show, he said, the amount of academic growth typically occurring during the year at each grade level.

MAP testing three or four times a year will show how each student, class, and grade level is doing in meeting the expected growth.

Cost for the program is between $11,000 and $12,000 the first year, which includes $2,000 in training. Annual cost for succeeding years is $9,000.

Every state except Mississippi and West Virginia use MAP testing. About half the school districts in Wisconsin use the program, said Jorgensen.

Summer school Whitwam reviewed the proposed K-5 summer school schedule, gaining approval from the board to proceed with a three-week summer program that will run from June 11 to June 28.

No classes will be held Friday of each week.

One change from last year, said Whitwam, is that kindergartners will be invited to all three weeks of summer school rather than just one week. In addition, two electives will be included in the K-5 schedule, along with swimming, math, and reading.

The school day will begin at 8:30 a.m., and end after lunch at 12:30 p.m.

The remainder of the summer school program will be very similar to last year, said Whitwam, except that fifthgraders will be included in the motivation sessions in August that are designed to help transition to middle school. These have been typically offered only to sixth-graders.

Referendum projects An update on projects funded by the $900,000 recurring referendum approved by voters last fall was included in the district administrator’s report.

Completed projects include replace-

ment of lighting in the middle school gym, the purchase of a school van, the purchase of 75 student computers, purchase of a school bus, and purchase and installation of a motor and pump for the pool.

The high school roof is partially completed, with the gym roof done and classroom areas to begin soon. Bids have been received for flooring renovation in the middle school gym and hallway with the project scheduled for this summer, and siding on the elementary area to be completed this spring.

Improvements to the parking lot and recess area blacktop are 90 percent completed.

“More projects are being considered by the building and planning committee,” said district administrator Brandon Robinson. Under consideration is the replacement of carpeting in the high school office, an upgrade to the energy management system, replacement of the elementary sidewalk, painting in the gymnasiums, purchase of middle school bleachers, bathroom remodel and student computer purchase.

Other business • The board approved open enrollment applications consisting of 31 new applications into the district and 40 new applications out of the district. Total number of students open enrolled into the district are 53, with 122 out.

• The review of the career and technical education curriculum content was conducted March 12 and 13 by a peer review team from outside the district.

Results will be presented at a future board meeting.

• The community education advisory council is offering a survey to gain input into programming and offerings. The survey is available online on the district’s Web page. A paper copy can be obtained by contacting Tanna Worrell at 715-825-2101.

• Library aid funding earmarked for the purchase of books is being spent, with new titles added to the 21,000 books currently in the Unity School District Library.

Resident calls for review of Zachary Wolfe case

Expresses criticism of sheriff’s response to abduction

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Richard Ugland, Bone Lake, has requested that the Polk County Board and the public protection committee arrange an examination of how county law enforcement and other officials handled the recent abduction and death of Zachary Wolfe. The 7-yearold Wolfe was the victim of an apparent murder/suicide at the hands of his father, Jeff Wagner, in mid-February.

Ugland, who identified himself as a concerned citizen, told the public protection committee Tuesday that there are many questions that must be addressed in the matter.

“One can not find evidence of the type of urgent, energetic and coordinated response as this tragedy developed

that, in my opinion, this situation called for,” Ugland told the committee. He stated that he had reviewed the public statements and court records relating to the case. Ugland’s comment was included in a three-page letter he presented to the committee.

“My review of this matter suggests there may have been a great deal of confusion, a lack of leadership and coordination, and possibly a lack of adequate training or planning for this type of emergency,” Ugland said. “The Polk County rules about abductions, which apparently gave Sheriff Moore pause in using outside resources such as Amber Alert or other alert systems, should be carefully reviewed.”

Ugland went on to mention items he found in reviewing the court records, including quotes from e-mails Wagner sent to his former wife Melissa Horky.

The items included incidents of violence

by Wagner and what Ugland calls a

Nominations sought for Citizen, Volunteer of the Year FREDERIC – The Frederic Area Community Association is seeking nominations for its annual Frederic Citizen of the Year Award and Frederic Volunteer of the Year Award, both honors to be presented at a banquet in early May.

Persons may pick up a nomination form at Affordable Quality in downtown Frederic or contact Carol Thompson at Affordable Quality at 3274271 and enter a nomination over the phone. – submitted

clear threat of abduction.

“Is this not a warning, documented in e-mails, which should have been shared with law enforcement people immediately after the abduction or immediately after it’s receipt?” Ugland asks.

“Evidence of danger of serious injury or death is an overriding criterion for Amber Alerts and many other urgent steps.”

Ugland concluded his remarks saying that he has been informed that the Wisconsin Attorney General’s office is ready to assist a county board in setting up independent unit performance reviews and in finding training resources for all aspects of law enforcement.

Responses Ugland made his presentation during the public comment section of the committee meeting. The committee accepted his report but did not respond to

Ugland since the issue was not on the agenda for the meeting. However, two persons did make comments on the presentation. “(Ugland) has some valid concerns,” Sheriff Moore said during his report to the committee. “No one saw this (the abduction) coming, not the court, not the former DA, not the DA. Your e-mails are one-sided.”

“I have complete competence for our leadership in this building,” committee chair Bryan Beseler said at the end of the meeting. “All that could be done has been done. The people looked back and learned the lessons. People couldn’t see this coming.”

District Attorney Dan Steffen, who sat next to Ugland during his presentation and is one of the officials whose actions were questioned, told the Leader that he did not want to make a response at this time.

Jail inmate found in Osceola apartment POLK COUNTY - A Polk County Jail inmate failed to return to Polk County Jail following a doctor’s appointment in Hertel and was arrested the next day in an Osceola apartment.

Marissa Gaddy, 19, Osceola, was also arrested March 8 at 3:30 p.m. for alleged possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Matthew Coon, 20, Balsam Lake, was serving time in the county jail for battery. On March 6, Coon failed to return to jail after he was released to attend a doctor’s appointment. He was transported from Gaddy’s apartment in Osceola back to the jail without incident, and now faces felony escape charges. – Julie Holmquist

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Grantsburg board hands out praise

Schools recognize student and teacher achievements

by Carl Heidel GRANTSBURG - It was a time for recognition and congratulations as the Grantsburg Schools Board of Education met Monday evening. Two first-graders and a teacher shared the spotlight.

Students in Billie Rengo’s first-grade

Josh Watt, Grantsburg High School social studies and English teacher, was recognized by the board for receiving the Kohl Teacher Fellowship.

The tened report Heidel

class had finished a social studies unit in which they studied four different countries and then wrote reports about what they learned. The project was designed to integrate social studies and writing for the children. And when the Grantsburg School Board lis- program was completed, two of the as Spencer Bunting read his first-graders, Zachary Huehn and about Japan. - Photos by Carl Spencer Bunting, were chosen to read their reports to the school board.

Zachary had studied Canada, and wrote about people whose background and experiences were similar to his own. Spencer’s story was about a country and culture different from his own, Japan.

Board members and assembled parents listened carefully as Zachary and Spencer read, and then gave both boys a round of applause when they finished.

High school teacher Josh Watt received his share of praise, too. Jeff Bush, high school principal, informed the board that Watt had been awarded the Kohl Teacher Fellowship, an honor that recognizes him as one of the best 100 teachers in the state of Wisconsin.

Bush described Watt as a hardworking teacher, very deserving of the award. “He is one of the most gifted Zachary Huehn read his report and innovative teachers we have,” said Bush. Among Watt’s achievements about Canada to the Grantsburg cited by Bush was his work to incorpo- School Board Monday evening. rate technology in his teaching of high school English and social studies.

In other business: Board members congratulated Watt • Keith Laney, high school teacher for being honored in this way. In his and president of the teachers’ union, remarks, Watt expressed his gratitude appeared to thank the board for agreefor all who have helped and encouraged ing to meet again to try to settle contract him along the way to the fellowship issues recognition.

• the board approved the draft proThe fellowship awards both Watt and posal of the 2007-08 school calendar the Grantsburg schools individual • the board moved its next board checks for $1,000. meeting from April 9 to April 16 at 5 p.m.

BCDA announces upcoming events

SIREN – The Burnett County Development Association has some upcoming events to keep in mind.

On March 22 will be the awards ceremony for the second-annual business plan competition at 5 p.m. at the Lodge in Siren. The winning business plan will receive a cash prize up to $2500,

and if the business implements the business plan, the business will qualify for a zero-percent loan up to $10,000. Village officers, county board members and the chamber of commerce will attend the ceremony.

Three businesses took an eight-week training course in Webster to learn how

to put together a business plan. Two of these businesses then entered their plan in the competition along with one business that did not take the eight-week training course for a total of three business vying for the award.

At the April 4 meeting, Jerry Hembd from UW-Extension and UW-Superior’s

Northern Center for Community and Economic Development will give a presentation on Burnett County’s changing demographics, employment and income trends. Burnett County Development Association meetings are held at the Pour House in Siren from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Sherill Summer

New tourism fund request policy announced

by Sherill Summer SIREN – The parks, tourism and recreation committee has adopted a new funding request policy for all organizations requesting money from the tourism department, it was announced at the PRT’s March meeting Wednesday, March 7.

All organizations receiving funding must submit a request in writing by July 1 annually. All requests for funding must have the following information: • Organization’s name and contact information.

• Funding amount requested.

• Description of how funding will be used.

• Information on how any publications will be distributed throughout the

county.

• Budget information such as costs and revenues related to the project.

• Description of the impact of the project. How will the project attract visitors to the area. If the request is aid to attend a conference, what will be accomplished at the conference.

All organizations are encouraged to make a presentation to the PRT committee. Organizations not submitting a written request may not be included in the budget.

Currently, Burnett County Tourism supports organizations on an ongoing basis and are not required to submit a request. This new policy will affect 2008 funding. For more information on this new funding request policy, contact

Noon-hour high-speed chase ends in arrest TOWN OF MEENON – Gary A. House Jr., 39, Blaine, Minn., was taken into custody after his truck entered the ditch one-half mile south of Webster.

Both front tires were flat from running over a stop stick at the intersection of Austin Lake Road and Hwy. 35, 1.6 miles north of the eventual stopping place.

Upon arrest, House had just completed a high-speed chase, with speeds in excess of 100 mph, from Minnesota on Hwy. 77, south at Danbury on Hwy. 35 and through the village of Webster during the busy noon hour. No one was injured in the chase, although at least one vehicle entered the ditch to avoid hitting the suspect.

House was charged with OWI, his

sixth offense, for being under the influence of a controlled medication, along with other charges including possession of stolen property, operating after suspension, reckless driving, passing into oncoming traffic and meeting a vehicle on the wrong side of the road, totaling 12 charges in all.

It is reported that House was released from Anoka County jail just four days prior to this arrest. House was most recently convicted for theft in Hennepin County in January. Other convictions found on his record are theft in 1989, third-degree burglary in 1991, and two aggravated gross misdemeanors in 1991 and 1995. – Sherill Summer.

Mike Kornmann at 349-2151.

Trails finally open The committee was informed that snowmobile trails have been open since Feb. 25, and the committee was able to conduct some routine snowmobilerelated business. Work on a trail bridge in Blaine Township is complete. This is the second bridge that has been put in this winter.

The Hwy. 35 bridge over the St. Croix River, north of Danbury, is under con-

struction. Traffic is reduced to one lane with portable traffic lights directing traffic.

Snowmobilers must use this one lane and follow all traffic laws as well.

Eventually, however, the recreational trail will have its own lane on the bridge, much like the recreational lane on the Yellow River bridge in Danbury.

Work on the bridge is expected to be complete around Nov. 1, 2007.

Former AFGE officer ordered to repay money SIREN – A former secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Government Employees, James Turner, 54, Danbury, plead no contest to theft for writing checks totaling $6,600 when he was no longer the secretary-treasurer of AFGE. Turner must return the money along with court costs and fines, totaling

$7,309 by Apr. 30. Turner is also barred from taking any union-related offices for the rest of his life. The missing money was discovered in a random audit, and the matter was turned over to the Department of Labor Management Standards for investigation. – Sherill Summer

VanGuilder becomes licensed private detective – Eric BURNETT COUNTY VanGuilder has launched a local statelicensed private detective agency called VanGuilder Investigations and Protection Services.

According to Detective VanGuilder, who is a state-licensed private detective and professional investigator, his agency will offer a variety of investigative and security protection services.

The business will provide civil and criminal investigations, insurance and accident investigations, locating and recovering missing persons and property, employee suspicions and preemployment background checks, pretrial preparation services, security consult-

ing, etc.

VanGuilder said he looks forward to utilizing his skills, knowledge, training and experience as a security consultant, law enforcement officer and business person to provide quality services and results to his clients.

Most of the agency’s work will involve working for the public, corporations, defense attorneys, insurance companies and various government affiliations.

For further information you can visit his Web site at www.ericvanguilder.com or call 715-259-7266. - submitted

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Scrap metal theft at Tenere Inc. leads to arrests POLK COUNTY - Two men were arrested Friday after allegedly loading scrap metal into their SUV during working hours at Tenere Inc., in Dresser.

Richard Madsen, 20, Dresser, and John Kuntz, 22, Osceola, face possible Polk County charges of theft, possession

of stolen property and possession of burglary tools after they were arrested at 3:15 p.m. Friday.

Dresser police were called to Tenere Inc. on Hwy. 35 after someone saw two white men loading several containers into the back of a silver Dodge as it was

parked on Norlander Street.

According to police, there were several tubs in the back of the vehicle containing both brass and stainless steel scrap metal that was later identified as belonging to Tenere Inc. A bolt cutter was also on the floor behind the driver’s

seat.

Polk County Sheriff Tim Moore said the value of the metal could have been as much as $6,000. Police also recovered a rubberized container that had been stolen earlier from Tenere, Moore said. – Julie Holmquist

Golf course future depends on lease

Decision due by April 9

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG – Joe Schmidt is still interested in leasing the Grantsburg Golf Course. That was the final word from the Minnesota golf course manager after a long village board meeting Thursday, March 8, where details on the lease and other issues were discussed.

Schmidt was joined by his partners and brothers-in-law, Dan Bialon and Paul Schanda.

The village council set April 9 as the date when a lease of the golf course must be settled. The council has decided that the golf course would close rather than run at a deficit paid by village funds. Schmidt was the only person who expressed an interest in operating

the course.

Under the draft lease now being negotiated, Schmidt would lease the course for one dollar a year for three years. In addition, he would give the village 1.5 percent of the gross revenue from the course. That money would go into a capital improvements fund for the course.

Two major items of discussion were the course irrigation system and maintenance equipment. Schmidt said he had talked to Curtis Anderson, the former course manager, about the present watering system. He seemed assured that the system works now. For the future, the village has considered raising money from the community to install a new irrigation system. That project could involve a Farmers Independent Telephone Company grant

Snowmobilers arrested in Frederic FREDERIC - Two Frederic residents were arrested early Sunday for operating snowmobiles under the influence of an intoxicant.

Brian Majorowicz, 19, and Joseph Kelley, 21, were arrested by Frederic Police just after midnight Saturday after

a complaint was made about snowmobiles jumping over snowbanks in a yard.

Majorowicz told police he didn’t know the way to the Gandy Dancer Trail and had been drinking alcohol earlier at the Pioneer Bar with his father. – Julie Holmquist

of up to $25,000 to match $50,000 raised from the public.

Schmidt also had questions about the condition of the maintenance equipment and golf carts and what would be included in the lease.

The village will hold a special council meeting Thursday, March 22, to work out more details on the lease.

If a lease is agreed to, the village

would call for bids to replace the tee box and green on holes three and nine that will need to be relocated when the Burnett Medical Center starts construction on its new driveway connecting it with Hwy. 70. The cost of that project, up to $50,000, will be paid with funds provided by BMC as part of a land exchange.

Sheriff seeks info on car after bus stop incident POLK COUNTY - Polk County Sheriff Tim Moore asked the public to be on the lookout for an older, black, two-door car with driver’s side damage.

Moore said the car is possibly a sports-car type, possibly driven by a male in his 20s or 30s.

Moore wants the public to be aware because a vehicle and a man matching that description was involved in an attempt last Thursday to get a juvenile female into his car after a bus dropped her off.

The incident occurred around 4 p.m.

March 8 in the area of 250th Avenue in the northwest part of Polk County.

Anyone seeing a similar vehicle should call 911 and attempt to get license plate information (state and number), any other descriptive information or direction of travel, Moore said.

“Any information about the vehicle would be appreciated,” he said.

Moore said he sent information about the incident immediately to school bus garages, so they could be informed. – Julie Holmquist

Webster teacher fights for contract renewal School board handles personnel matters

Sixth-grade teacher, Sean Oswald, interacting with the crowd gathered in the hallway, waiting for the board’s decision. - Photo by Sherill Summer

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - After adjourning to a closed session at a special meeting Tuesday evening, the Webster Board of Education returned to open session to take action on personnel items.

Two teachers had given the board letters of resignation: Jesse Jensen, high school social studies teacher, and Lynette Schultz, high school English teacher. The board accepted both resignations.

The board also reviewed the contract of Sean Oswald, sixth-grade teacher, and voted not to renew that contract.

There were no other items for board consideration at this specially called meeting.

The nonrenewal matter is likely to come up at the boards regular meeting on Monday, March 19, at 7 p.m. in the High School library.

A crowd of parents, teachers and students waiting in the hall outside Webster’s elementary IMC as the school board considers whether or not to accept the administrations recommendation to nonrenew Sean Oswald’s contract to teach sixth grade at Webster. Two other teachers were informed that their contracts would not be renewed: Lynette Schultz and Jesse Jensen, both of whom submitted resignations to the board last night, March 13. - Photo by Sherill Summer

The Webster School Board after announcing to the crowd that they had accepted the administration’s recommendation to nonrenew Sean Oswald’s contract. The board did not discuss their decision, but the matter is likely to come up at the board’s regular meeting on Monday, March 19, at 7 p.m. in the high school library. - Sherill Summer

Follow the Leader.

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

L e a d e r We b Po l l Last week’s question: How many more snowstorms will we get in March and April?

1. None 33 votes (44 percent) 2. One more 18 votes (24 percent) 3. Two or more 24 votes (32 percent) Total votes: 75 This week’s question: Should the Packers sign Randy Moss?

1. Yes 2. No You can participate in our weekly Web poll by going to www.the-leader.net and scrolling down to the lower left hand portion of the front page.

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M Editor’s NOTEBOOK Hey, sunshine

T

his is National Sunshine Week (March 11-17) and it has nothing to do with the return of warm weather to our northwoods.

It's in honor of open government.

The Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council is giving out awards this week to people and events that “shaped the fortunes of open government in Wisconsin, for better or worse.”

A few weeks ago we reported a “secret ballot” vote by a local board of trustees. The topic wasn't monumental. There was no big money involved.

But the vote was illegal just the same. A Wisconsin Newspaper Association legal guide told us to file a complaint with our local district attorney.

Did we? Naw. The district attorney has a long list of more important fish to fry. Did we report it? Yes. It didn’t expose corruption because there was none.

But maybe it helped to remind other boards that “secret ballots” can be legally used only in cases of voting for board officers.

So this paper won't get an award from the WFIC this year. But there are other cases out there with potential. And should it even be about awards?

The WFIC is serving two purposes with their awards - to recognize achievement in making sure open government stays that way - and keeping the topic in the public eye.

Reporters, it’s been noted, have no special power when it comes to these laws. Statutes are designed to provide citizens access to their government.

Journalists are simply there to represent the public.

The WFIC awards sum it up nicely.

They gave an award to Peg Lautenschlager, our former state attorney general, for championing the public's right to know. She “issued good advice and took courageous stands,” said the WFIC. In one case she filed a complaint against a state lawmaker for foot-dragging on a records request and she also urged the state Supreme Court to affirm the need for public bodies to provide specific meeting agendas.

Also honored was the Lakeland Times. According to the WFIC, “This twiceweekly paper published in Minocqua, with a circulation of under 11,000 and staff of 20, has emerged as one of the state's leading defenders of openness and accountability. In 2006, it won the first stage of a lawsuit, also involving the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, challenging claims that new labor pacts require state agencies to withhold the names of public employees. And it won final judgment against a state agency that tried to suppress records of a disciplinary probe. The records were released, and the paper stands to recover much of its legal fees.”

And it was a tie for the “No Friend of Openness Award (Nopee)” award.

The WFIC states: “The Wisconsin Legislature and Weyauwega-Fremont school board. The state Legislature has exempted itself from records retention statutes, allowing lawmakers charged with crimes to obliterate past e-mails.

Its members continue to caucus in secret and, in 2006, got into hot water for casting votes outside of public view. And many lawmakers resolutely defend their right to share bill drafts with special interests but not the public. All in all, a dismal record. Meanwhile, the Weyauwega-Fremont school board charged a newspaper $430 for the two hours its attorney spent blacking out parts of records, then refused to honor subsequent requests until this bill was paid. The paper sued, and the board recently paid $10,000 to settle, besides its own taxpayer-funded legal costs. The board's president, Steve Loehrke, also ejected a board member from a closed meeting for taking notes, spurring another lawsuit that led to a $300 fine, plus legal fees.”

The Grammies of open government?

In the words of the Fifth Dimension…”Let the sun shine…”

All editorials on this page by editor Gary King

Cooperative:

W h e re t o Wr i t e President George Bush 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 president@whitehouse.gov Governor Jim Doyle 115 East, State Capitol Bldg.

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

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

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

Senator Sheila Harsdorf 10th Senate District State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 (608) 266-7745 • (715) 232-1390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us

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

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

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

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

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

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

an enterprise or organization owned by and operated for the benefit of

A tip ‘O the Hat We don't know of anyone else who has brought more smiles to the faces of local citizens than Leona Cummings of Frederic. A historian who brings warmth to every gathering she’s a part of, her knowledge of local history is only surpassed by her charm.

From narrating a parade of old-fashioned wedding dresses to introducing grade-schoolers to Johnny Appleseed, Leona manages to lift the spirits of her audience members while educating them, interjecting laughter at every turn. She played a vital role in the development of Frederic’s restored depot and museum. Our hat's off this week to one of Frederic's most valuable resources…Leona Cummings.

The views expressed on these pages do not necessarily represent the views of ICPPA board members or employees

T h e

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

L e a d e r

i s

a

L e a d e r Views from across the S t a t e Assembly casino proposal is still a bad idea

T

he Republican-controlled Wisconsin Assembly has revived a bill that would require legislative concurrence with any decision made by the governor to approve a casino anywhere in the state.

The measure is just a thumb-in-the-eye political potshot at Democrat Doyle.

Republicans were fine with sole authority being exercised by their governor, Tommy Thompson, over the years he held office.

Suddenly, though, with a Democrat behind the governor's desk, Republicans want to take away that responsibility.

Pretty transparent, eh?

The plan has been brought forth before, and was rejected. Republicans may well succeed in passing it through the Assembly this time, but we trust Beloit can count on Senate Majority Leader Judy Robson, D-Beloit, to spike the plan in the upper house. Allowing a requirement that any plan had to satisfy dozens and dozens and dozens of legislative egos, likely would build an insurmountable negotiating barrier.

Just as threatening (to the Beloit Project), however, is the dirt swirling around Dennis Troha and his former connection to the Kenosha plan. As a major contributor to Doyle, the Troha scandal cannot help but complicate the political process for the governor's consideration of any casino project.

Since the first day the Beloit plan came forward - more than six years ago - there has been no hint of under-the-table dealings. The two tribes involved - the Bad River and St. Croix Chippewa - have conducted affairs with openness and integrity. Local governmental units have worked with the tribes in the same spirit.

It has been a by-the-book effort, which is why it has taken so long. Whatever may have been going on with Troha, and whatever his involvement in Kenosha, none of that should taint the Beloit plan.

But one would have to be hopelessly naive not to understand the complicating nature, politically, of this mess.

That adds to the challenge of moving the Beloit plan through Washington and, then, persuading Gov. Doyle of its merits.

Adding a legislative roadblock is hardly necessary. - Beloit Daily News

F O R U M

C o m m u n i t y Like a parachute

A

C O R N E R

Winter fun

esterday, landing one foot up to the ankle in cold water as I jumped a slushy channel trying to cross the street, I still couldn't help but be happy about the warmer weather.

I'm just not a cold-weather person. I like it fine if I can stay inside. When I really want to feel like a hardy Northerner, I'll take the parking spot that's a little further from the door of the business I wish to enter. Other than that, I try to spend as little time out there as possible.

It makes me feel like such a softy sometimes. As a kid I could play in the cold for hours, with snow finding its way up my sleeves, down my neck, and into my boots.

Now I have to really concentrate in order to enjoy snowflakes on my face.

But truth be told, once I allow myself to enjoy it, I find myself back in the days of snow play. I surely can't run, jump, roll, and dive into it like I did

V O I C E S

entists agreed that the world was flat and that the sun and stars revolved around the earth. They were all wrong! But the preponderance of the science few weeks ago, I wrote a column for today suggests that there is a serious problem and Community Voices in which I argued that, that it's getting worse.

“There is no longer any doubt that global Unfortunately, many people see global warming warming is occurring and that it's our fault.” I almost entirely in political terms. Conservative expressed my disappointment that only two people Republicans, in particular, believe that too much has had shown up for a presentation, sponsored by been made of the issue and that proposed remedies Frederic Community Education, of the Academy to reduce carbon dioxide emissions would be so Boyd Award-winning film, "An Inconvenient Truth." harmful to American business interests that it Since then, I've received a lot of feedback, both pro Sutton would place us at a significant global disadvantage. and con. Some argue that the issue remains very Many Democrats, on the other hand, believe that uncertain, that it has yet to be proven scientifically. the United States is irresponsible for failing to sign Others argue that what the scientists are seeing is simply the natural cycle of warming and cooling that has gone on for up for the Kyoto Accords, negotiated in 1992.

The Kyoto Accords would, in fact, allow so-called “develmillennia. Still others agree that global warming is occurring, oping countries,” such as China and India, to continue their but that human activity has little to do with it and, therefore, polluting ways. America and, to a lesser extent, Europe, can't do anything about it. Some go so far as to argue that the issue is a political conspiracy to undermine American pros- would be required to bear the brunt of measures to reduce carbon emissions. This would damage American and perity and our cherished way of life.

Few people, however, argue that it is not an issue. If we are European businesses and lead to higher prices for conresponsible, concerned citizens who care about the world sumers, according to some arguments. Our way of life would that future generations will inherit from us, we need to suffer so China, India, and Africa could move forward with inform ourselves with the best information available and to highly polluting development practices. That's only fair, act responsibly on that information. We must not stick our Kyoto advocates argue, because America and Europe are collective heads in the sand or merely shout our views at responsible for a grossly disproportionate share of carbon emissions and should, therefore, pay a disproportionate each other.

There are many theories surrounding the issue of global share of the remedy.

But the Kyoto Accords were predicated on data collected warming. Scientists seem to coalesce around three. The vast to about 1990. Since then, China and India have made up majority-about 97 percent-believe that the levels of warming that we are seeing now result almost entirely from human massive strides in their development. And the balance of activity. The principal cause, according to this view, is the trade between those countries and the United States vastly heavy release of carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels. favors them. It would be unwise for the United States to sign This group also believes that we are near a catastrophic tip- up to an unfair agreement based on outdated data, as some ping point-a point where no corrective measures will be able Democratic politicians want us to. At least that's one arguto reverse the trend. In their view, once the vast tundra areas ment. And a good one, in my view.

But other irresponsible politicians deliberately cast the of the Canadian and Siberian Arctic begin to thaw, that will warming issue in terms of a nefarious plot to underglobal release overwhelming amounts of methane and carbon dioxide, setting in motion heat buildups and ice melting on a cat- mine America and American's quality of life. This argument takes matters to an unrealistic extreme in an effort to create astrophic scale.

Another group of climate scientists-a small minority, yet fear and to undermine any thoughtful and realistic considerone with serious scientific credentials-argues that there is a ation of measures to reduce carbon emissions. Conservative correlation between sun spot cycles and periods of warming. commentator Ann Coulter, for example, argues that According to this view, global warming is not caused largely Americans will be reduced to reading by candlelight. She by human activity, but by storms on the surface of the sun, argues, “Liberals don't care about the environment. The core of environmentalism is a hatred for mankind. They want over which we have absolutely no control.

A very tiny minority of climate scientists simply do not mass infanticide, zero population growth, reduced standards believe that there is sufficient evidence to judge whether of living and vegetarianism.” Such demagoguery underhuman activity can be blamed on currently observed global mines intelligent and civil discussion of what may be one of warming trends. They are unwilling to extrapolate, there- the two or three most important issues of our era.

Frederic Community Education is sponsoring another fore, to any looming catastrophe. showing of the movie, "An Inconvenient Truth," next A handful of climate scientists simply dismiss it as an issue Thursday evening, March 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Frederic High altogether. While admitting that the earth is warming as a School.

Please come to see the movie. Bring your arguments direct result of human activities, they argue that warming will “probably” be modest and that nature and humanity for discussion following the movie. Bring copies of articles or studies you may have read. And please bring a willingness will easily adjust to it.

I don't know how much to make of the fact that the over- to discuss this important issue civilly and politely with your whelming majority of climate scientists and peer-reviewed neighbors, even if we don't fully agree with each other's scientific studies agree that we have a serious global warm- points of view. Remember the saying, “A mind is like a paraing problem. After all, there was a time when virtually all sci- chute, it only works when open.”

S t a f f

Y

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

try had taken advantage of the glacial deposits in the form of gravel pit operations. back then. For one, our So, we went sledding into the insurance wouldn't be too gravel pit. It was a steep, long happy with the predictable slope, without trees but with outcome of such activity some pretty rocky outcroppings. after years of not using my I never went down alone - I was muscles. Secondly (maybe always safely ensconced toward firstly) is the fact that I the middle of the toboggan, with would be in great pain withMary family and friends securely in in 10 seconds. front and behind. That was Nevertheless, I sometimes Stirrat mostly because I was too scared feel the nostalgia for snow to properly steer in the front and times gone by. I remember the year we got a toboggan for too weak to keep myself on at the back.

The trudge back up the hill was misChristmas. At the time it seemed like it was about 30 feet long. We could fit erable, even then. But we'd do it again, most of our family of seven on it, and of course.

The other weekend, after the huge even my mom, from whom I inherited my adult-onset winter allergy, flew snow dump, the three of us went sliding at the Luck Golf Course. It was the down the hill with us.

We went on the hill across the street first time for Joshua, who is most comfrom our house. I think I've mentioned fortable on the steeper but much shortbefore that I grew up on Hill Street, an er hill at the school.

We bundled up, put our plastic sleds aptly-named glacial moraine. We lived at the top of the hill, with steep slopes in the back of the vehicle, and ran for on three sides. Across the street, indus- the hills (figuratively, since I try not to

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

run much).

It was a blast. Someone had made big jumps on the hill, which I tried to dodge but which my husband made every effort to hit.

At first Joshua would only go down the gentler slopes on the side of the big hill, but we finally talked him into taking the big one. He loved it, zooming faster than a speeding bullet, wanting to go again and again, although never alone.

Plus, he would only go down with his hat pulled down over his eyes. I would not be comfortable about that.

Talk about having trust in his pilot.

I guess life is kind of like that. I think I can isolate myself from the cold and snow by staying inside but, to mix metaphors, I still have to take that step off the sidewalk.

Sometimes I feel like I'm blindfolded as I take my step. But I'm glad I don't have to do it alone, and I'm glad I can trust my pilot. And once I take that step I'm always glad I did.

n e w s p a p e r

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

L e a d e r F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Take a closer look for yourself This letter is in response to the character assassination of Alta Tann, director of CRA, composed by Kim Lalor in early March. I am offering your communities a different view of this director since it was pointed out that the history of CRA spans 26 years and my mother has been a part of this wonderful community for a mere six months.

While no saint by any means as none of us are, my mother is not hardly the monster she has been portrayed to be in the media and through the employees.

It is my hope that through this alternative view of CRA's new director, you will not pull your funding as Ms. Lalor would encourage you to do, but would find it in your community's hearts to embrace and volunteer to assist in the growth of an agency that touches and rebuilds so many lives.

My mom has been involved in domestic violence work for a vast majority of her life. She has worked with the victims of such violence, through agencies such as CRA. However, she also brings the unique experience of having worked with the abusers themselves, as she has experience working and facilitating support groups for men released from prison but residing in rehabilitation and halfway houses.

Like so many victims of domestic violence, she witnessed it in her own home with my grandparents; and then as a young woman with a small child (me), decided to end such violence in her own life when she parted ways with my father. That decision was a turning point in my mother's life as she spent the next 20 years raising me and five of my cousins whose mothers (her sisters) were experiencing violence in their lives due to drugs, alcohol, and other life challenges. This decision would include leaving Chicago and moving to Wisconsin to seek a different environment, pace of life, and opportunities for the entire family.

My mom was working as an advocate as the last child left home for junior college in the early 90s. This was her opportunity to return to school herself and pursue education that would enable her to further help in the domestic violence arena. With a degree in criminal justice and further training in substance abuse issues, my mom returned to Chicago to work in the biggest shelter in Illinois.

Her passion and abilities in this arena would move her from advocacy work to administration during her eight years with that agency.

In early 2003, I began contemplating divorce as I was in a very stressful and emotionally abusive marriage. My mom actually left her job shortly after that to return to Wisconsin and assist me during this stressful time. After my divorce had ended and 18 months had passed, my mom decided that she wouldn't be returning to Chicago. Thus began her search for a community and agency that could benefit from her experience in administration, grant writing, fundraising, etc.

I was a bit leery when she told me about CRA's opening. I wondered if your small communities would embrace a multiracial woman with a big, infectuous laugh. A woman who has endured what your victims have endured, so her passion is not lost, her viewpoints on the services to be provided not a secret. I also wondered why CRA was looking to hire their third administrator in less than a year's time.

As I read Kim Lalor's letter, I fully understand the dynamics that have poisoned CRA during the last couple of

administrations. Most of us can't pick our boss, nor do we get to decide what we get paid, how we get paid, if we will work overtime or not at all, or what rules we will buy into. Many of us have experienced cutbacks in hours when our companies are not profitable; many of us undestand that changes in policy are designed to benefit the clients or business we serve. There is no future in embracing self-serving policies that do not serve the mission of the agency at all.

It would appear to be clear for most readers that my mom has not been given a chance with an agency's staff that she was willing to give a chance to.

It is hard to leave your family and move five hours north because you believe in a mission of helping women and children. You believe, so you move.

I am appealing to the Polk County residents and those in surrounding counties to rally behind CRA, an agency that is built to serve people within your community in need. CRA has continued that service, with a director, volunteers and board members so dedicated to the mission that they have fulfilled positions and duties when Kim and her sisters decided to call in sick multiple days, thus hoping to leave the shelter in dire straits. I have that knowledge for no other reason, but that when I came to visit, my mom and the others were busy manning phones and handling issues due to their lack of staff. It was hardly a visit at all. While you rally behind this agency and recommit yourselves and your funding to its mission, perhaps you might find it in your hearts to open your minds and give the director a chance.

Standing behind your communities and with my mother, Terese Tann Beloit

Doors are open In response to your article on the �woes� of CRA, the board of directors wish to inform everyone in the community that CRA - Welcome Home Shelter continues to provide all of its services; shelter, 24-hr. crisis line, legal/personal advocacy, emergency transportation, support groups and peer counseling just as it has for over 27 years.

CRA, as most nonprofits, has hit upon some difficult financial times. At the same time, there is a pressing need for the agency to face new programming, staffing and fundraising challenges. We ask for your continued support as we restructure our agency to fit the needs of a growing community.

Our doors remain open.

Sincerely, CRA Board of Directors Nancy Stewart Bluette Puchner Raymond Rowe Tom Horst LuAnn White Roberta Rudiger Marge McCardle Ardyce Knauber

Moving forward This letter is in response to Kim Lalor's Kamikaze attack on the professionalism and competency of CRA Welcome Home Shelter Board of Directors and CRA Director Alta Tann.

The first thing that CRA board of directors should do is to inform Ms. Lalor that her services at CRA are no longer welcomed or required, and that her public resignation is accepted, effective immediately.

As a person having been associated

with CRA Welcome Home Shelter in various capacities for over 10 years, I have had many opportunities to interact with and work with CRA staff, directors and volunteers in many capacities. I have heard staff complain and watched them create problems for over six years now, with respect to the director(s) and the board of directors.

I have also watched the CRA shelter programs be developed, delivered and serve the communities. I have experienced the growth and progress of CRA, and participated in the awesome accomplishment of a new facility being built, to better serve the needs of the community.

I am able to draw some very insightful conclusions - about the staff, the board of directors, the volunteers, the clients, and the situation - as presented

by Kim Lalor in her very self-serving, disparaging, inflammatory letter of March 7.

The CRA staff all care deeply and passionately about CRA, and its programs and services. They care about the clients they serve - those victims of abuse and violence. They care deeply about helping and empowering these clients. They have a huge sense of ownership at CRA Welcome Home Shelter.

The CRA staff also believe, and have for many years that they should be the ones running CRA. They believe that it is they, who should be calling the shots, and making the rules.

CRA staff believes that the director is being abusive when they are denied a requested day off. They believe that it is abusive and constitutes harassment, to be expected to follow the dress code while at work.

CRA staff believes that it is their right to monitor, approve and direct the activities of the CRA director.

CRA staff believes it is their duty to screen the calls of the CRA director, as well as to listen in on them. They also believe it is their duty/right to reassign their job duties, at will, without approval or without even informing the director.

CRA staff believes that by them going public with their employment grievances, that you, the local citizens, are going to get involved with the operations of CRA. Do they really believe that you and I are going to presume to get involved?

To try to "convince the board of directors of CRA that they need to fire Alta Tann, and then let the current staff either run CRA themselves, or let them hire a director to their liking?

The CRA staff is on record, year after year, director after director, board after board, for making these accusations and statements. CRA has had two directors and two interim directors, in the past 15 months.

CRA staff believes that it is okay to all call in sick, on the same day, leaving the CRA shelter unstaffed, to show the CRA board and the director that CRA shelter cannot run without them. (done repeatedly by staff).

CRA staff is actually insulted at not being empowered by the board, to run the CRA shelter on a day-to-day basis, since they believe that the reason the CRA shelter exists is because of them.

(Hmmm, I have always thought and believed that the CRA Welcome Home Shelter exists in our community, because as sad as it is to admit, there is a huge need for these services.)

As far as the CRA staff problems and grievances, they are being handled exactly as they should be.

CRA can run more efficiently. More economically. There is always room for improvement. These have been, and remain some of the goals of the CRA board of directors and the CRA director.

This CRA staff, in their passions, have

lost all perspective. They are caught up in their own agendas, and in their own personal situations.

The shelter is not successful right now, because of the efforts and activities of the current staff. The shelter is operating, and delivering program services in spite of CRA staff subversive efforts.

In spite of all the deliberate, negative interference by many staff members in operations.

As a member of this community, I intend to continue to support the shelter in all the ways I have previously.

I would ask you to reread Kim Lalor's letter and hear what she is really saying.

And yes, by all means, not as Kim demands you do, but if you have questions or suggestions, speak to a CRA board member about this situation.

I have had the privilege of working with Alta Tann, the present CRA director, in various capacities, since her hiring. I find her very competent, efficient, refreshing, intelligent and in my opinion, exactly what CRA needs to move them forward in this difficult area of delivering services to a community in need.

Linda Glenn Rural Luck

Know your rights I'm writing this article to let the people in Burnett County who are on Medical Assistance know that you have the right to get $2,500 for funeral expenses.

Make sure you tell the funeral director that your loved one is a Medical Assistance client. My son was on Medical Assistance for 20 years in Burnett County. He had three different social workers, none of them ever explained to him or me that this program ever existed.

After he passed away, no one from Burnett County Social Services gave me a call to let me know I could get some help.

They saved $2,500 by not telling me.

The funeral director tried to help me but all he could get from them was $124.

The mistake I made was I wrote a check to the funeral home for half the cost.

Once you do this the county won't pay the $2,500.

I think the Social Services department needs a new supervisor. It's a shame they can hurt people instead of helping them.

Georgia Edwall Webb Lake

Vote for Marilyn For the past two years, Marilyn Buckingham has served as the town board representative on Garfield Plan Commission of which I am chairman.

She has been instrumental in developing the Capital Improvement Plan and Impact Fees Ordinance recently adopted by the town board. Marilyn is very involved in our present task of developing a comprehensive plan mandated by the state of Wisconsin. These plans will give citizens and town officials a guide for orderly growth and development in our town.

I have found Marilyn to be a very intelligent and competent person who has the best interest of all the residents of our town in mind. She is working hard to keep this a great place to live!

I believe Marilyn Buckingham deserves to be re-elected to the Garfield Town Board on April 3, 2007!

Orval Johnson St. Croix Falls

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

L e a d e r F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Who makes money?

I agree with Wayne Anderson's column, that global warming is just a bunch of liberal hysteria. The issue of mass species extinction has been vastly overblown by the media. I just put in my application for this year's wooly mammoth hunt, which I think has been unfairly limited by the Wisconsin DNR. There are still plenty of them left to hunt, a guy just has to know where to look for them. A couple of years ago the Rooskies found one in a melting glacier and he was just as fresh as if he had been in your home freezer.

In fact, just last summer a wooly rhino was in my delphinium bed before he got scared off by a saber-toothed tiger. I think that they are kind of a nuisance, but he does keep the wolves out of the neighborhood.

Congressional leaders are holding hearings on global warming, I'll quote Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, "We don't know what those other cycles were caused by in the past. It could be dinosaur flatulence." It is good to know that we have knowledgeable people in the Republican Party, that aren't afraid to be polically incorrect.

Who stands to make money off global warming hysteria is an important issue.

My brother just bought some soon-to-be oceanfront property, just south of Atlanta, and he stands to make a fortune, as soon as his condo project is finished. I was to South Florida while I was in college, and I was not impressed by any of the towns there. I am quite sure that no one will really miss them.

David Stoylen Frederic

Great season

What a wonderful season of basketball you have allowed us to watch. The pep band, cheerleaders and student body were fun as well. But it was your listening to Coach Randy and then playing your best that gave all your fans the desire to come back each week.

It has been a great season. The Tigers have never made it this far before, so take heart! We have enjoyed your hard work.

Paul Olesen, Kevin Ingalls, Brian Gibbs, Brian Thill, Peter Walsh, A.J. Holmquist and Nick Wolfe. You have caused all of us to know the Tiger is very hard to beat!

The students and fans have made an effort to be quiet during all free throws.

That has been important as well.

Your admiring fans, Wes and Norma Maurer Webster

Coverage

On behalf of the St. Croix Falls wrestling fans, athletes and coaches, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Inter-County Leader and Matt Blumkin for the great coverage and support of the St. Croix Falls wrestling team this season.

Our athletes, their families, and our fans really enjoyed the articles and pictures.

Your time and effort throughout this entire season is truly appreciated.

Dan Clark Head Coach SCF Wrestling St. Croix Falls

Budgets & rhetoric

Budgets do not lie, or better said, they reveal truths.

When carefully read budgets tell a nonfiction story. Sometimes the story line does not read the way our political representatives say it does.

Let's look at the $93 billion in supplemental funding for the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, for example. These monies requested by the Bush administration cover the period that ends on Sept. 30, 2007. There is strong bipartisan support for this additional funding under the banner of "support the troops." Congressional members say almost in unison: "We want to ensure that the troops have all they need."

Yet, there in black and white, if one follows the paper trail you will read that these $93 billion will not manifest into actual equipment or supplies to U.S. soldiers for at least 18 months and more likely not for two or three years.

At a Feb. 8 hearing of the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee, General Peter Schoomaker stated that units which are deployed to Iraq are fully equipped.

No one wants our soldiers high and dry. And in fact they are not...at least until they return stateside to facilities like Walter Reed Army Hospital.

There seems to be strong bipartisan support for war-without-end under the guise of support our troops. Authentic support for our soldiers and the embattled people of Iraq is immediate U.S. withdrawal.

To Congress, I say, bring them home now and don't manipulate our feelings with misleading rhetoric about who the budget really supports, like arms manufacturers.

John Heid Luck

Columnist responds

I'm glad Bruce Muehlhauser responded to my Community Voices column, We must do something about global warming (Feb. 8). Encouraging informed and civil discourse on issues of broad importance to The Leader's readership was a primary motivation for creating the Community Voices column. I have been disappointed to see so few responses to these columns. Let's hope that Bruce's letter is the first of many.

I was disappointed by just one point in the letter-Bruce's characterization of my view as “a political stand.” Nothing could be further from my intent or my views. I do not view global warming in political terms. Rather, I see it as an issue of science and moral responsibility that transcends politics altogether.

Bruce disputes the scientific evidence for global warming that is accepted by virtually all climate and environmental scientists. He makes the argument that the warming phenomena (which he agrees are real) are not caused by human activity, but by heat transference from the earth's molten core to the surface as the core cools. Thus, he posits an alternative scientific explanation for global warming.

That's fine. That's one element the debate should be about-the science of the issue. If the science isn't right, then all the other arguments are moot.

There's no point in arguing about what we should do, or the politics of the issue, if the science isn't right. So let's

debate the scientific evidence and try to stay away from politics.

Aimee Juan's Community Voices column on Feb. 28 also disagrees with those who have concluded that human activities have so grossly exaggerated natural cycles that we have created a pending global warming disaster.

Instead, she argues that we are simply in another natural cycle of increased warming, a process that has been waxing and waning for millennia.

I don't agree with either of these personal theories, preferring to stick with the conclusions of more than 10,000 studies by climate and environmental scientists. But our individual views do matter. They matter a lot. Because, if the science is right, and if we don't accept the science and act on it now, our descendants are in for a very hard time.

So let's get together and talk about the science.

Frederic Community Education will sponsor another showing of the movie, “An Inconvenient Truth,” at the Frederic High School on the evening of March 22, 6:30 p.m. I hope to encourage several local school science teachers to be there to help guide discussion following the movie. Refreshments will be served.

Yes, we'll have to watch a little gratuitous politics that Al Gore just couldn't resist putting into his movie, but we can easily get past that. What matters is the clear explanation of the global warming phenomenon and the presentation of scientific evidence that addresses many relevant theories-both for and against the idea that this is just another turn in a natural cycle.

Bring your theories. Bring copies of articles you have read. Let's all discuss them in an open, friendly environment as communities should. I'll learn something new, and so will others. And I know I'll enjoy getting together with people who think about such issues and care enough about their community and future generations to discuss global warming now.

Boyd Sutton Siren

Embarassment

The latest embarrassment for Polk County Board's Finance Committee is the decision made at the Jan. 10, 2007 finance committee meeting to buy office furniture for the department of administration and the county board chairman's office.

They have given us the botched termination of a long-term employee, closed sessions to discuss “budget concerns,” deciding to ignore a directive from the executive committee regarding budget cuts, and now this. The county board chairman sits on the finance committee and this term, the county board vice chairman is the chairman of the finance committee, and finance is the governing committee for the department of administration. One can certainly wonder why the department and the governing committee that is responsible for building and monitoring the county budget, would exempt themselves from the very process they impose on other departments.

How they found the money is also interesting. According to the minutes of the finance committee, a motion was made and passed without opposition to use surplus money in the DOA budget from the 2006 budget year. This deci-

sion was made 10 days into the 2007 fiscal year. The 2006 budget ceased to exist at midnight Dec. 31, 2006.

I believe any “surplus” money left in any budget at that point becomes undesignated general fund money.

How do you spend money on unbudgeted items from a budget that no longer exists? Had that decision been made sometime in 2006 it would not have been a problem. Can we now go back to previous years’ budgets and find a year where a department had a carryover at the end of the year and decide to use those funds to make unbudgeted purchases?

That is what finance appears to have done. The county usually has a significant amount of carryover money at the end of the budget year. All departments except Golden Age Manor-make a concerted effort to come to the end of the year under budget. I believe the only way that money can be accessed after the end of the budget year is by a resolution to the county board that requires a super majority vote to pass.

Finance also decided to use what they believed to be DOA money to purchase furniture for the county board chairman's office. The furniture there didn't need replacing-especially in view of any number of higher priority concerns-like road repairs, vacant unfunded jailer position in the sheriff department, vacant unfunded mental health coordinator position in human services department, etc.

The legal problem with that decision is that the county board is not part of the DOA. I believe state statutes prohibit the transfer of budgeted dollars between departments by anyone other than the full county board and then only with a super majority vote of the county board. I believe the leadership of the county board and especially the finance committee has failed the taxpayers of Polk County.

Robert A. Blake Frederic

Ireland Eire was the name of a beautiful queen who welcomed conquering warriors to the island.

Many years later, when the Vikings were invading the land, their pronunciation of the soft sound came out as “Ira” – so the people of Eire became Ira-ish and the island was known as “Ira-land.”

Orv Volkmann Frederic

Letters The Leader welcomes letters to the editor. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Letters are subject to being edited for length, taste and/or clarity, and we urge writers to be brief and limit their letters to 500 words or less. Writers must provide their name and give their complete address and phone number. Content that will cause letters to be rejected include: Crude language, poor taste, disrespectful comments regarding a group’s or individual’s ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race; other incendiary language, poetry or personal attacks.

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PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

L e a d e r

F O R U M

Harsdorf opposes governor’s “Sick Tax”

MADISON - State Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, R–River Falls, is opposing the new “sick tax” proposed by Gov. Doyle in his two-year state budget bill. The governor’s proposed 1-percent tax on gross revenues of hospitals would generate $418 million in new state revenue over two years, and is intended to acquire matching federal funds estimated at $575 million. Even as hospitals would receive much of the federal funding for low-income patient subsidies from the federal government generated by the new tax, they would still lose somewhere between $132 million to $186 million, which would be passed onto health care patients.

“You cannot tax your way out of a health care crisis,” said Harsdorf. “This scheme simply hides health care costs by pushing them onto taxpayers. And with consumers further isolated from costs, health care

Body of sailor recovered; service planned NEW RICHMOND - The body of U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Cory Helman will finally be laid to rest March 31. The New Richmond graduate was one of four people killed when their helicopter crashed in the Pacific Ocean about 38 miles off the southern coast of California, near San Clemente Island on Jan. 26.

His body was recovered Feb. 16 after extensive efforts to lift the helicopter wreckage from the ocean floor, 36,000 feet below the surface. Initially military officials were unsure if they would ever recover the bodies and the helicopter. Helman’s parents, Jim and Sandy Helman of New Richmond, vowed to hold off on having a memorial service locally until the body was brought home.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 31, at Prairieview Covenant Church at the intersection of Hwy. 65 and 210th Avenue north of New Richmond.

Family, friends and the general public are invited to attend. A visitation is planned from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 30, at the church. The visitation will continue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the day of the funeral. – New Richmond News

Rehiring nixed BARRON - Staffing shortages at the Barron County Clerk of Courts Office had motivated county administration to consider rehiring Lisa Dennis, who had been found guilty last fall of embezzling thousands of dollars from the register of deeds office. But comments from sitting county board members made it apparent that the move would be too controversial, so it’s no longer being pursued, said County Administrator Duane Hebert. Dennis currently works without pay in the clerk of courts office to fulfill the 200 hours of community service ordered at her sentencing last October.

Approximately 100 of those hours have been served so far. Hebert said that Dennis was qualified for the posi-

prices increase even faster.”

An analysis by the Wisconsin Hospitals Association found that the nine hospitals in the 10th Senate District (St. Croix County and portions of Burnett, Dunn, Pierce and Polk Counties) would lose anywhere from $4.2 million to $5.3 million in net receipts after the plan, even after getting additional fee-for-service federal revenues generated by the state tax.

“Money does not grow on trees in Washington D.C.” said Harsdorf. “It is still taxpayer money, and I have little faith in the sustainability of such a revenue source to help Wisconsin. However, we have learned that a new hidden tax on patients will not go away once government becomes dependent on the revenue, and state taxpayers will get stuck with the full bill. At a time when health care costs are already rising, we

should not be playing accounting games with the pocketbooks of health care consumers.”

Instead, Harsdorf urged the governor to repeal state taxes on health savings accounts and restore the integrity of the Medicaid trust fund; while she applauded his support for making health insurance premiums tax deductible.

“Taxing sick patients is the exact wrong way to address health care costs,” said Harsdorf. “We should not tax the sick to pay for the poor. Instead, we need to prioritize our budget obligations to Medicaid patients and lower health care taxes.” – from the office of Sen. Harsdorf

A r e a N e w s

tion and would have allowed the county to get someone back on the job with no lag time. Knowing her employment would be controversial, though, county board members were surveyed to see what their reactions would be to Dennis’ potential employment with the county. The overall response was slightly in favor of rehiring Dennis, Hebert said, but there was a significant and vocal minority that vehemently opposed it, so the idea was scrapped. – Barron News-Shield

Telemark desk robbed at gunpoint CABLE - An armed robbery took place in the early hours of Monday morning at Telemark Lodge in Cable, with the night auditor being held by a gunman at the front desk. The unidentified male made off with an estimated $1,800. According to the Bayfield Sheriff’s Department, the man was carrying a black, semi-automatic pistol and demanded money from the clerk. The man then jumped the desk and requested the clerk open the safe. The clerk was unable to open the safe so the man demanded money from a cash deposit box before fleeing. Authorities suspect the man had an accomplice stationed outside during the robbery. He was wearing a burnt-orange snowmobile suit and full-face helmet, suggesting that a snowmobile was used in the getaway. He is said to be 5-foot, 10-inches, without further identification from authorities. Anyone with information about the robbery is being urged to contact the Bayfield County Sheriff’s department at 715-373-6300. – Sawyer County Record

County considers third judge BARRON - Adding a third judge to Barron County’s Circuit Court is on the list of recommendations that the executive committee will make to the county board this month. If approved by the supervisors and granted by the state, that could mean adding another

Schimpps to present gospel concert

MILLTOWN – The Schimpps will be presenting a gospel concert on Saturday, March 24, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 25, at 10:30 a.m., at North Valley Lutheran Church, Milltown. The Schimpps have been presenting gospel concerts on a consistent basis since 1983, when Gary was the director of promotions for Minnesota Christian Broadcastors, Inc. Their music has taken them throughout the entire Midwest and parts of Canada. When possible, Gary and Carmen are joined by daughters Dawn, Andrea, Heather and pianist son-in-law, Gary Timbs. – submitted

courtroom in less than five years to the justice center, which opened in April 2004. The committee will also present a resolution to the board recommending that 17-year-old offenders no longer be considered adults for criminal prosecution. Those recommendations will go before the supervisors during their regular session on Monday, March 19. “Long story short, an additional judge is needed in Barron County,” Judge Edward Brunner told the executive committee during Tuesday’s regular session. Brunner was part of a statedirected panel that prepared the 2006 Judicial Needs Assessment, which calls for adding more judges to counties with excessive workloads. Brunner said the state is looking for an affirmative vote in the next couple of weeks from the supervisors that the county would accept a judge if approved by the state. That would mean Barron County would have a third judge who would be elected in spring 2008 and seated that fall. Brunner said the county was sixth on the state’s list for 6-8 new judges in the state. Although the county can decline a third judge after supervisors approve adding one, Brunner said he wouldn’t recommend it because that’ll only put the county further down on the list, if the opportunity comes up again. – Rice Lake Chronotype

Efficient lighting may become law MADISON - As energy-efficient lightbulbs make their way into more homes, one Wisconsin city may try to mandate use of the bulbs in rental properties.

A proposed ordinance in Madison would require rental properties to have efficient lightbulbs in common areas and mounted fixtures. The measure would also mandate replacing old-fashioned exit signs with fixtures that use light-emitting diodes.

The Sierra Club helped draft the plan. Club official Jennifer Feyerherm says Madison was chosen for its high density of rental units. She says investing in more expensive bulbs like compact fluorescents can save energy costs of $2 million a year and doesn’t even include the fact that efficient lightbulbs last 10 years or more, whereas the oldfashioned kind can blow three to four times a year.

Feyerherm acknowledges the compact fluorescent bulbs can be more expensive to buy, but she says there are rebate programs such as from the state Focus on Energy effort. She says the ordinance needs to be mandatory, not voluntary, because past energy efficiency efforts at rental properties have fizzled out due to misperceptions.

If the ordinance passes, renters may want to check their lease to see who pays for new lightbulbs whether the landlord or tenant gets the price break on electricity. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Chuck Quirmbach)

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

L O C A L

H E A D L I N E S

Milltown PD to hire part-time officers

by Mary Stirrat MILLTOWN — High-quality police officers are in demand, police chief Andy Anderson told the Milltown Village Board Monday night, and parttime officers quickly get “snapped up” for full-time work.

Right now Milltown has two of these “in-demand” part-time officers. The village cannot offer full-time work, said Anderson, and both Stephanie Warner and Dan Zielsdorf fill in when they can.

Both have a very full schedule because they are serving other communities as well. Warner is also working at Frederic and Luck, and Zielsdorf is working at Centuria.

Both Warner and Zielsdorf said they have been working back-to-back shifts on a regular basis.

“There’s a lot of competition out there for officers right now,” Anderson told the board.

The board gave Anderson the goahead to advertise for part-time officers to help alleviate the scheduling problems.

The Milltown Police Department has new badges and patches that reflect the new four-digit numbering system.

Library report Library director Matt Rosendahl’s report indicated that the library received a $1,000 donation from the town of Milltown. He also noted that 65 children and their parents attended the card and candy making workshop Feb. 13, at a cost of $27 to the library.

According to the report, Rosendahl attended sixth-grade reading classes at Unity to demonstrate book talks, share good, new young adult books, and tell students about the services offered at local libraries.

Library circulation for 2007 continues to be higher than in 2006, the report notes.

Milltown Police Chief Andy Anderson, left, with part-time Milltown officers Stephanie Warner and Dan Zielsdorf.

Resident complaint Pete and Marilyn Peterson spoke to the board about specific Milltown children who have been giving them problems.

The middle-school children have been disrespectful to the Petersons and destructive to the their property. The parents fail to respond to complaints, they said.

“It’s been ongoing,” said Pete Peterson.

Police chief Andy Anderson met with the Petersons just before the board meeting, and planned to attempt a contact with the children’s parents later that night.

“We’ve filed dozens and dozens of reports with social services,” he said.

“We’re just hoping that (the parents)

take heed one of these days and do something.”

Anderson said he has begun working with a new contact at Polk County Human Services and has high hopes that action will be taken.

Children over the age of 12, said Anderson, can be issued a citation for the type of conduct the Petersons are seeing, but cases involving children under 12 must go through social services.

Anderson said he will continue to pursue a remedy for the situation.

Other business • The board voted to join the Polk County Economic Development Corporation, at $2 for each of the village’s 922 residents. “They have some new and interesting things going on,” said village president LuAnn White.

• Public works director Rick Fisher was given approval to purchase five Motorola radios to be mounted in the work trucks. The total cost of $2,650 plus installation is included in the 2007 budget.

• The village-owned strip of land between Wise Guys and the Milltown Public Library will be deeded to Wise Guys for an addition. The addition will house a walk-in cooler and rest rooms.

Wild River Sport Cycle donates ATV for hospice fundraiser GRANTSBURG – Wild River Sport Cycle at Grantsburg has donated a 2007 Suzuki Ozark 250 Quad Runner ATV for the grand prize at the eighth-annual Spring Fling Gala to be held April 21 at Northwoods Crossing Event Center in Siren.

The gala is a fundraiser for the Regional Hospice.

Other raffle prizes will be a $500 shopping spree at the Syren General Store, a quarter of Angus beef, donated by Perlick Construction of Spooner, and a Get Bit Fishing Guide Service ($325 value) donated by Chris Beeksma, guide. A $100 savings bond will also be one of the prizes.

Raffle tickets are being sold at Wild River Sport Cycle in Grantsburg, Burnett County Abstract in Siren, U.S. Banks in Grantsburg, Siren and A & H, the Pour House in Siren, Shell Lake State Bank in Shell Lake, Café Moonglow in Webster, Tony’s Riverside Bar & Restaurant in Spooner, Prime Bar and Restaurant in Trego, Dinner Bell Restaurant in Trego, Riverbend Bar and Restaurant in Trego and Nails by Deb Olson in Spooner.

Information regarding dinner tickets and the event may be obtained by calling the hospice office at 715-635-9077 or Kathy Hansen at 715-205-6425. – with information from Regional Hospice

McFaggen status conference set BURNETT COUNTY - Shonda McFaggen has a status conference scheduled for Mar. 20 at the Burnett County courthouse.

McFaggen has been charged with an aggravated battery, a felony H, stemming from a stabbing incident in the Siren area on March 31, 2006.

McFaggen pleaded not guilty in May 2006. McFaggen has two additional charges for bail-jumping and possession of methamphetamine that she has acquired since the stabbing incident.

Court dates for these two charges are scheduled for May 15, 2007. – Sherill Summer

The village of Milltown owns this strip of land between Wise Guys and the Milltown Public Library. Wise Guys is planning an addition and the village has agreed to deed the land to the bar, leaving a four-foot strip between the two buildings.

Seasonal weight restrictions imposed SUPERIOR - Pursuant to Section 349.16 of the Wisconsin Statutes, seasonal weight restrictions (6 tons gross load for single axle and 10 tons for tandem axle) are being posted for the following highways effective Monday, March 19.

Hwy. 65 - Polk and St. Croix counties, from the junction with CTH H in Star Prairie, northerly to Hwy. 8. Hwy. 169 Ashland and Iron counties, from

Wisconsin Central Limited RR tracks east of Hwy. 13 northerly to Hwy. 2 that is for the entire length in Ashland and Iron counties. Trucks hauling milk, heating fuel and septic materials are exempt from seasonal load limits on this segment of Hwy. 169 Ashland County. – from DOT

Local artists to demonstrate their crafts NEW RICHMOND - Art and food lovers are looking forward to the return of the St. Croix Art and Culinary Show in New Richmond.

The event, scheduled for Saturday, April 21, will be held at R&D Banquet Hall this year due to anticipated growth in exhibitors and participants. The show runs from 2 to 8 p.m.

The Rotary Club of New Richmond is the driving force behind the show.

Monies raised through the event go to

fund the club’s STRIVE scholarships and other community programs.

Tickets for the event will be available beginning March 8. Call Jo Wrich at 715243-3903 for information or tickets.

Tickets are also available at Sweet Greetings, The Space and Ready Randy’s. They can also be purchased online through the New Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce Web site.

Only 300 tickets will be available for the event, so purchase yours early if you

want to make sure you will be at the show. Tickets are $40, with $20 of that amount qualifying as tax deductible.

Local artists who will demonstrate their craft include Vivian Byl and Susan Tolan of Luck, Sarah Dudgeon of Amery and Susan Davis of Star Prairie. A total of about 25 artists will be involved in the day’s events.

Artist mediums range from watercolor painting to pottery to fiber art to sculpture.

Other artists will also be demonstrating their skills during the show.

Several live and silent auctions will be conducted throughout the day to sell various original art pieces.

Entertainment will be provided throughout the show by the Arlington String Quartet. Pete Neuman and the Real Deal will perform at R&D Banquet Hall following the show. - submitted

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Swedish Sister City signs denied by TF council

by Julie Holmquist TAYLORS FALLS - The Taylors Falls City Council voted unanimously Monday night against erecting “Sister City” signage that would connect Taylors Falls with Aseda, Sweden.

Barb Young and Sally Barrott, of the Taylors Falls Historic Society, have been to the council with the matter several times in the last year. Young was at the meeting Monday night to request approval for signage promoting Taylors Falls as a sister city of Aseda, Sweden.

“It’s part of the marketing tool for tourism in our county,” Young said.

“Chisago County has such a strong connection with Sweden, and Taylors Falls was the gateway to Swedish immigration.”

Barrott and Young were under the impression that the city long ago approved the sister city connection, but Mayor Mike Buchite said no city records could be found verifying that information.

Young noted that many Swedish tourists make their way to Taylors Falls and Chisago County because of the Moberg Trail and the history of the author Vilhelm Moberg.

“As we think of Taylors Falls and its future, we need to think of tourism,” she said.

Three people wrote letters to the council opposing the signage, including

Jack Liljenberg, who is of Swedish heritage.

Buchite noted that he also received a phone call from someone who had been a member of the historic society for many years, and council member John Tangen said several people had expressed opinions to him in opposition to the signage.

“They all opposed it for the same reasons: because Taylors Falls has an unusually diverse heritage,” Buchite said.

“I’m opposed to signage of any kind,” Tangen said. “I did some research on this and the common thread is that everyone started here.”

Tangen said that if he were to endorse any signage, he’d support something at the landing commemorating the immigrant trail.

“I found Jack’s letter to be pretty compelling,” said council member Larry Julik-Heine. “I personally feel that if you put up a sign for one sister city, you exclude all the others. We need to be inclusive and we need to celebrate the melting pot.”

Council member Zara Kinnunen said that there didn’t seem to be any direct historical connection with Aseda, Sweden, and that was “problematic” for her.

The council agreed that they are not opposed to commemorating the immi-

grant trail, which runs along Hwy. 8.

In other business, the council adopted the Wellhead Protection Plan that has been in the works for more than seven years and is required by the Minnesota Department of Health. A letter from the pollution control agency recommended no changes were needed and the plan indicates that Taylors Falls has no contamination threats to its drinking water.

“You are fortunate that you don’t have a lot of issues like some other cities,” said Robyn Hoerr, groundwater specialist from the Minnesota Rural Water Association.

The council also approved advertising for bids for the proposed new city well, and heard a report from Stein Insurance Agency on the city’s insurance needs for 2007.

The council agreed to increase insurance on three pieces of property that were appraised much higher than prior values. The buildings are the library and pump houses one and two.

Donation The council accepted a donation of $2,500 for the Cherry Hill Park Fund, raised through the seventh-annual Academy Awards & Chicks Gala held Feb. 25. Diane Arnold, Colleen Hammer, Deb Julik-Heine, Diane Nelson, Sara Okstad and Lisa Thibodeau reported that 76 guests and

25 volunteers enjoyed an evening of fun while raising the funds.

“Because of the many who gave of their time and the generosity of local businesses who donated items to our silent auction, we were once again able to raise monies to donate to the creation of Cherry Hill Park,” they wrote in letter to the council.

State funding, tax breaks Buchite has been busy traveling to the state capital testifying at committees on behalf of Taylors Falls. On Monday, Buchite testified at the Senate tax committee concerning funding for emergency services for the city from local government aid funds.

Buchite said it looks favorable that the city may receive ongoing funding in the amount of $30,000 to pay for the cost of responding to emergencies at Interstate State Park.

Buchite also testified in St. Paul in an effort to gain a Border City Zone for the city, so businesses here receive a decrease in property taxes. The tax decrease would allow them to compete on a more even scale with Wisconsin businesses, which have a lower property tax rate than Minnesota. While the issue is still being debated in the Legislature, Buchite said he is “guardedly optimistic.”

Kennedy lawsuit officially over

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–Most people in the community recall a series of lawsuits between the city of St. Croix Falls and Kennedy Houseboats, Inc. The suits stemmed from a 1995 developer’s agreement for construction on a city industrial lot. The city and Kennedys

have been in and out of court since the late 1990s.

The city council was updated March 12 at the council meeting on the latest news in the suit, following notification of the judge’s final decisions. City administrator Ed Emerson said Monday that the judge has made the final deci-

sions in the matter and that the suit is officially over. The final judgments indicate the city will receive a return of $69,567.51 of money not given to the Kennedys. Kennedys were awarded lot 2 in the city’s industrial park, without the stipulations of the original developer’s agreement. They have the option to

develop the lot or sell it, but have to pay city taxes on the lot regardless.

“It’s over. Amen. Hallelujah,” Emerson stated.

With that comment, the matter was sealed as the council and mayor had no further comment.

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Menards doors now open

Grand opening week March 24 to April 1

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–It’s official, the Menards megastore in St. Croix Falls opened their doors this week. The store is located at the intersection of Hwy. 8 and 208th Street.

The manager for the store, Mike Anderson, said he is excited to have Menards open in the St. Croix Falls community. He has been with Menards for six years and recently worked at the Burnsville, Minn., Menards before becoming the general manager at St. Croix Falls.

“The nice thing about Menards is that the team members come from here and Menards promotes from within,” said Anderson. “This is the start of a lot of people’s careers.”

The store is hosting a grand opening week March 24 through April 1 and will have giveaways and vendors doing demonstrations including painting and door installation demonstrations. There will be two nights of celebrities at Menards also as part of the grand opening week. Former Major League Baseball pitcher Bert Blyleven (Twins 1987) will be at the store March 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. Superbowl MVP, former 1997 Packer, Desmond Howard will be at the store March 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. as well.

The new general manager for Menards in St. Croix Falls, Mike Anderson, operates a touch screen in the doors department. Several helper touch screens are located throughout the store to help with product and building information. –Photos by Tammi Milberg The St. Croix Falls megastore offers a grocery section with milk, and other grocery products and pet section with pet food and supplies. The store also has 6-foot-wide aisles to easily get two carts through one aisle at the same time.

Computerized help screens are located in several of the departments to help contractors, customers and employees touch a screen and find the answers to their product and building questions for convenience.

The store has patio furniture set up and is getting ready for the warmer weather to set up the garden center with plants and trees. The store also offers a lumberyard, tools, plumbing, flooring, bathroom, kitchen, appliances, lighting, household items and more.

The St. Croix Falls Menards managerial staff includes general manager Mike Anderson, assistant managers Vincent Keenan and Regina Blodgett.

Department managers include: human resources coordinator Melissa Antonson, front end manager Brian Stevenson, receiving manager Chad Waite, commercial manager Andrew Peterson, building materials manager Sean Kruse, hardware manager Ryan Olson, electrical manager Raymond Lissy, millwork manager Tammie Denholm Bremer, cabinet and appliances manager Michael Parks, wall coverings manager Amy Race, plumbing manager Jason Rodd, and floor coverings manager Brandon Schrunk.

Patio furniture is in place, ready for the spring season.

Poster winners

Menards kitchen displays include cabinetry and appliances to help the doit-yourself homeowner in selection.

SCF drama presents “Bye, Bye Birdie”

St. Croix Falls High School drama students rehearse for the energy-filled musical “Bye Bye Birdie” at the Historic Festival Theatre. Performances are March 22-24 at 7 p.m. and March 30-31 at 7 p.m. Additional matinees are March 24 and 31 at 2 p.m. To reserve tickets call 715-483-9823 ext. 232. Prices for tickets are $4 students/seniors and $5 adults. –Photo by Tammi Milberg

Art students in the seventh and eighth grade at St. Croix Falls Middle School participated in a poster design contest to publicize the SecondAnnual Festival of the Arts. This will be coming up on March 15 from 5-8 p.m. at the SCF Middle and High School. Contest winners are: Front row (L to R): Nathan Barry, first place and Ryan Leach, second place. Back row (L to R): Alicia Chelberg, third place, Lynell Packer, fourth place and Elliott Frokjer, honorable mention. The winners and other participants’ posters will be on display at local businesses in the community. - Photo courtesy of Jennifer Clemins, SCF Art Instructor

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TF accepts free playground equipment for Lions Park

by Julie Holmquist TAYLORS FALLS - Thanks to the Lions Club and an Internet search, Taylors Falls will be receiving free playground equipment for Lions Park. The cost of the same amount of new equipment is estimated to be $40,000.

The Taylors Falls City Council accepted the free playground equipment from the city of Oakdale at a recent meeting.

The council also agreed to a waiver that would release Oakdale from any liability concerning the equipment.

Public works staff will use city equipment to help Lions Club volunteers load up the equipment in Oakdale and transport it to Taylors Falls.

“This will be a great addition to the park,” said city council member Larry Julik-Heine.

“The park and rec commission thinks this is a great idea.”

Wayne Breeden, a Taylors Falls Lions Club member, inspected the equipment and “gave it his seal of approval,” JulikHeine said.

Oakdale is replacing its playground equipment and has no use for the older equipment. By dismantling and hauling the equipment away before May 1, Taylors Falls saves Oakdale the cost of removing it.

“I was told they weren’t changing because of safety problems,” said Mayor Mike Buchite. “The swing sets are in great shape. And they have another play set in the box and never used.”

Buchite said the equipment in the box is an older model, but it’s brand new and in storage.

The only downside of all the equipment, Buchite said, is that parts are no longer available to be ordered.

The city has considered playground

Buchite said Weber will also act as an interim city planner when the next development comes in to the city and will work with Phillips.

“He said he’ll work with the planning commission as fast as they can go,” Buchite said. “This guy is going to move along.”

This shows some of the used playground equipment Taylors Falls will receive for free from the city of Oakdale. - Special photo safety issues as outlined by the League of Minnesota Cities and will have the building inspector look over the installation.

Buchite thanked the Lions Club for providing the opportunity.

“This is great,” noted vice Mayor Ross Rivard. “I think it’s in really good condition.”

Wayne Breeden told the council that they were considering placing the “new” toddler swingset and the other playground equipment in South Lions Park, and the larger swing set in North Lions Park.

Zoning ordinances In other business, the council was updated on the new planner from McCombs, Frank, and Roos and the completion of the city’s new zoning ordinances.

Buchite, clerk-treasurer / zoning administrator Jo Everson and co-zoning administrator Larry Phillips met with Bill Weber, the new planner.

“The good news is that I think Mr. Weber is very experienced,” Buchite said. “He’s already read the comprehensive plan and says it’s a very nice comp plan, and that there are a couple pieces missing from the zoning ordinance draft.”

Deer hunt The 2006 controlled deer hunt in Taylors Falls harvested 10 deer in its Sept. 16 to Dec. 31 season. Council member John Tangen reported on the deer hunt at the council meeting.

“Everything seems to be working out better,” he said. “From all the people I’ve talked to, it seems they were happy with the way it went.”

There were “no complaints, no safety issues, no law enforcement issues,” he said.

Because the “nuts and bolts” of organizing the deer hunt seem to be in place, Tangen said, he requested that the city dissolve the deer management task force.

“At this point in time, I don’t see that we need to have the task force continue,” he said.

The council voted to continue the deer hunt for 2007 and dissolve the task force, “with thanks and gratitude” for their work.

The council denied a request Monday night from the public works department for an upgrade on the skid steer, which is being traded in for a 2007 model. The usual trade-in amount is $500, but the upgrade to a two-speed, faster skid steer would cost an additional $2,500.

Public works employees were told that the current standard speed would become obsolete, but Buchite said he received opposite information.

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St. Croix Falls has baseball team

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–The city council for St. Croix Falls approved a donation to start up a baseball team in St. Croix Falls called the St. Croix River Bandits. The team already has 35 games scheduled for this year and will host home games at the St. Croix Falls school baseball field.

Jim Rochford Jr. presented the information on the team to the council indicating there are 20 people on the team: 16 from St. Croix Falls, three from Dresser and one from Osceola. The team is a member of the eastern Minnesota League Conference and is nonprofit.

Rochford said the goal for the team in five to 10years is to have their own field in St. Croix Falls. The annual cost is estimated to be $5,300 for equipment and an umpire, most of which they have covered by player contributions and donations. The city approved donating $100 and expressed their delight in the team’s decision to locate in St. Croix Falls. Councilmen Darrell Anderson and Jon Cermin indicated they would match the council’s donation.

In other business, the council approved a mutual aid

agreement with Osceola. The agreement states that both communities will assist each other in times of necessity and includes a reimbursement clause.

Councilman Anderson said he was against the agreement because the city would help out Osceola or any community in times of need. Anderson said that he did not like drafting an agreement and a handshake should be good enough.

Cermin, councilman, said he saw Anderson’s point but raised a concern that if the Hazmat team were needed in the assistance, the city could recoup that costly service with the agreement.

A roll call vote was taken and the motion to pass the agreement for mutual aid carried with all in favor except Anderson.

State Street update Cedar Corp presented a proposal for a design study and plan for State Street improvements. Chris Strom of Cedar Corp indicated that the streetscape would be planned out similar to Washington Street with crosswalks, streetlights and colored concrete and/or brick pavers. The suggestion to have the pavers stamped or

made of colored concrete was offered, to avoid the maintenance or slippery aspects of the pavers downtown. Another suggestion raised was to bury the utility lines or at least locate them all to one side of the street to minimize the visual impact. The council decided that because Louisiana Street is under construction this spring and summer, it would be better to redo State Street next spring in order to leave one other route to downtown besides Hwy. 87.

The council did approve the design concept work and plans to be done by Cedar now, and the bidding process can begin whenever the council is ready to advertise for bids. The motion carried to approve $69,390 for those two phases.

Downtown arts and culture district The council discussed creating a downtown arts and culture district through an ordinance. The council will have comments submitted and hold a public hearing in April before they could approve such an ordinance adoption. The ordinance will allow for commercial businesses downtown, but will encourage art and culture businesses and development.

Student at-risk survey results presented

Board approves technology bid

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–The school board for St. Croix Falls heard a presentation from guidance counselors Denise Sinclear and Mike Wilson at the regular board meeting March 6.

The presentation revealed results of a student survey given to middle school and high school students to evaluate at-risk behavior. The survey is provided by the Department of Public Instruction and this is the first year the counselors went with this particular survey. In the past a different survey was used, so data was not comparable to last year’s survey, but if the district stays with the DPI survey, they will be able to compare apples to apples in the results.

The report included the Wisconsin high school results, St. Croix Falls High School results and St. Croix Falls Middle School results. State comparisons to St. Croix Falls students were available for high school only.

High school students surveyed were asked if they get mostly A’s and B’s in school. Of that, 73 percent of St. Croix Falls High School students said they do and the state results were 70 percent.

Other questions on the survey for high school students included, You have family love and support, strongly agree and agree? The state average was 88 percent and St. Croix Falls 85 percent.

•Teachers really care, strongly agree and agree?

State average was 64 percent and St. Croix Falls was 66

percent.

•Feel like you belong at school? State average was 75 percent and St. Croix Falls was 67 percent.

•Two or more other adults you could seek help from (support)? State average was 75 percent and St. Croix Falls was 81 percent.

•Frequency riding or driving after drinking alcohol in the past 30 days? Drove: state results 14 percent and St. Croix Falls was 16 percent. Rode with: state was 31 percent and St. Croix Falls was 32 percent.

•Seat belt use: always or most of the time while riding with someone else? State average was 72 percent and St. Croix Falls was 77 percent.

•Physical fighting in the past 12 months, by location? Anywhere: state average and St. Croix Falls average was tied at 33 percent. On school grounds: state average was 12 percent and St. Croix Falls was 13 percent.

•Carrying weapons, including guns, past 30 days?

Anywhere: state average 16 percent and St. Croix Falls 21 percent. On school grounds: state average was 3.5 percent and St. Croix Falls was 10 percent.

•Consideration of committing suicide, past 12 months? State average was 18 percent and St. Croix Falls was 20 percent.

•Cigarette smoking, past 30 days, by gender? Male: state average 23 percent and St. Croix Falls 17 percent.

Female: state average 21 percent and St. Croix Falls 17 percent.

•Alcohol use, past 30 days? 1+ drink: state average 49 percent and St. Croix Falls 45 percent. Binge drink-

ing: state average and St. Croix Falls ties at 31 percent.

•Marijuana use? Ever used: state average 37 percent and St. Croix Falls 31 percent. Past 30 days: state average 16 percent and St. Croix Falls 17 percent.

•Sexual behavior? Ever: state average 40 percent and St. Croix Falls 41 percent. Past 3 months: state average 29 percent and St. Croix Falls 32 percent.

•Physical activity, 60+ minutes/day? 5+days a week: state average 35 percent and St. Croix Falls 45 percent.

Other business The board approved the technology bid for the elementary building from CMA in the amount of $420,750 which includes the bid of $338,750 and a CAD 6 data bid of $82,000.

The board also approved the tile upgrade and color scheme for the elementary and adding a classroom on the north end. This addition will not add to the contractor’s schedule and the board was assured they have a sizeable contingency fund. According to the architect, the biggest part of the schedule will be getting the lobby area done from May to August. It was also noted that beginning May 1, kids will be moved around due to the construction schedule. The board was also reminded they need to discuss the music addition to the high school and where they felt that should go.

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Butterfly House hopes to open doors in May SCF home offers women support in drug recovery

by Julie Holmquist ST. CROIX FALLS - The Butterfly House, a transitional house for women in drug recovery in St. Croix Falls, hopes to open its doors by May 1.

“We have so many people supporting us and behind us,” said Doreen Rivard, of Moms and Dads Against Meth.

Rivard and Denise Gunderson were two of the people instrumental in making the Butterfly House a reality.

The house will provide a safe, supportive environment to women in recovery while teaching them skills and ways to live a sober lifestyle.

The nonprofit group closed on the house purchase on Friday, and Rivard

said the first resident, who is now in treatment, has already been chosen.

The house, at 336 N. Washington St., is now in the process of being inspected and readied for the residents.

The house was foreclosed on in the midst of electrical work, and even though all the wiring was replaced, an electrician needs to review what still needs to be done, Rivard said.

“We’ve had about a hundred people who said they would paint,” Rivard said with a laugh. “I don’t know how much painting we’ll have to do.”

An advisory board for the Butterfly House has already been organized. It includes five people in longtime recovery who are active in the recovery community, one resident of the house and one neighbor. That board will take care of organizational work, house maintenance, and financial business, as well as recommend new residents to the resi-

dents’ council.

The residents’ council will be comprised of two of the home’s residents, two neighbors, and one advisory board member. The council will make the final decisions on resident choices and deal with issues within the house.

WestCAP will provide new doors and windows through its programs, and will inspect the boiler and insulation, Rivard said.

The bank loan payments for the purchase of the house will be covered by the fees that are paid by the women residents, who must be employed full time.

“That will cover the rent, utilities and the basic phone,” Rivard said, “but we will still need to do other fundraising.”

She is in the middle of writing grants to secure other funds.

Rivard will move into the house herself to begin with, because a staff person must be at the house round-the-clock.

“It will be a squeeze at the beginning,” she said, but also added that she feels confident that the Butterfly House is on its way to becoming a safe cocoon for women making their transition into a sober world.

Anyone wishing to help stock the house with furnishings may call Rivard at 715-248-3712.

Major needs include four brand-new twin-size mattress sets.

Some of the other needs include: dressers, wall clocks, pillows, bath towels, washcloths, blue and gold bathroom rug sets, eight folding chairs, lawn mower, picnic table, chest freezer, bookshelves, garden tools, trash cans and many household items such as dishtowels, garbage bags and pots and pans, cleaners, bakeware and a vacuum cleaner.

Plans announced for third bridgil for peace ST. CROIX FALLS - Commuters and vacationers using Hwy. 8 will get more than the usual beautiful view of the St. Croix Valley if they cross the Interstate Bridge this Friday between 6 and 7 p.m.

That hour is scheduled for the St. Croix Valley Green Party’s third in a series of what organizers have dubbed “bridgils” – a word made by combining the words bridge and vigil.

“We’re having a peace vigil on the bridge,” said Green spokesperson Jeff

Peterson of Luck. “Inventing a new word is sort of in line with what we’re asking our nation’s leaders to do, which is to invent new ways of solving international disputes without resorting to war.”

Twenty-eight people attended the group’s last bridgil on Jan. 28, coinciding with other nationwide protests against President Bush’s announced plans for an escalation in the numbers of US troops in Iraq. Peterson said he’s

expecting a far bigger turnout Friday, as it marks the fourth anniversary of the invasion of Iraq.

The Greens are trying to attract more Minnesota people to this event, and plan to display votive candles along the walkways on either side of the bridge, one for each service member killed from each of the two states. “We’re asking Minnesota folks to be on the south side with 47 candles and Wisconsin folks on the north side with 74,” said Peterson.

The goal of the event, said Peterson, is to honor the memory of fallen service members and to show public support for bringing the rest of our troops home as soon as a withdrawal from Iraq can be safely accomplished. Peterson can be reached at 715-472-2728. – from SCV Green Party

Felony OWI charges filed POLK COUNTY - Two Balsam Lake men face felony charges for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Curt Mattson, 37, was arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Department March 1 after getting stuck in a ditch on CTH I near Niebel Lane around 1 a.m.

Deputies had received a report of two intoxicated men at the scene, but an SUV pulled away from the scene as the authorities arrived.

Mattson told the deputy that he had missed his turn and went into the ditch.

According to the police report, after the deputy asked to perform sobriety tests,

Mattson told him, “Let’s just skip right to the jail.”

Raymond Koch, 44, also faces charges for a sixth operating while intoxicated offense. Koch was arrested March 1 at 1 a.m. near The Blacksmith Shop Motel after deputies tracked him there.

According to the police report, Koch left the scene where Mattson had been arrested, and the deputy reported that he was headed northbound on CTH I. Koch was previously convicted of OWI in Minnnesota in 2003, 2001, 2000, 1997 and 1986. – Julie Holmquist

Democrats promote another minimum-wage boost MADISON - State Senate Democrats say they’ll push for a 75-cent increase to Wisconsin’s minimum wage.

Wisconsin’s base wage went up a little less than a year ago to $6.50 an hour. A plan by Schofield Democratic Sen. Russ Decker would boost it again, this time up to $7.25. Decker’s plan would also index Wisconsin’s minimum wage to the average cost of consumer goods: as they go up in the future, so would the amount Wisconsin employers are required pay to their workers.

Decker says that’s important so that people can keep up with the cost of living.

Wisconsin’s largest business group says most of its members would not be affected by the plan, because they already pay higher rates than what Decker is proposing. But Wisconsin

Manufacturers and Commerce Spokesman Jim Pugh says the plan would hurt entry-level employees by shutting them out of the workforce.

Pugh says if there are going to be any wage increases they should be taken care of at the federal level instead of on a state-by-state basis. He says that creates consistency for businesses so they know what the rules are.

The federal minimum wage has been $5.15 an hour for roughly a decade now, although Congress and the President have discussed raising it to $7.25.

While Decker’s plan may clear the state Senate, past history suggests it will have a more difficult time in the Republican-controlled Wisconsin Assembly. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

Follow the Leader.

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

Third-Annual All-Leader Girls Basketball

by Marty Seeger and Matt Blumkin FREDERIC – In a season marked with change and young talent, these area players made this season a memorable one.

With area coaches’ imput, we’ve selected these players to the third-annual All-Leader girls basketball teams.

They all made significant contributions throughout the season and in the postseason.

Frederic’s rise to power in the West Lakeland earned them multiple spots

on the squads, and Grantsburg tying up Siren for a conference co-championship did the same for them as well.

There were also several players awarded, whom will be exciting players to watch next year and beyond. Of course, the present is a gift, so here’s a look back a how these young women helped their teams this sesaon.

Since there were other players deserving of such recognition too, we have also listed honorable mentions. Thanks to all the players on the area teams for making this a great season!

Honorable Mentions Frederic Erin Schmidt Jenny Murphy Grantsburg Lindsey Hedlund Luck Sarah Petersen Britta Giller St. Croix Falls Meghan Johnson Sasha Bryant

Siren Brittney Jaskolka Amanda Peterson Unity Cola Hickethier Webster Katie Thill Samantha Hogle

First team coach and post players Coach

Lisa McKinley Grantsburg

Name: Lisa McKinley School: Grantsburg Comments: In her first year as head coach of the Pirates, Lisa McKinley showed her girls how far they could push themselves throughout the season. McKinley led her girls into the second round of the playoffs, and put the team into position for a share of their first conference title in 11 years.

Power Forward

Miranda Kammeyer Grantsburg

Name: Miranda Kammeyer School: Grantsburg Comments: Kammeyer gave the Pirates toughness inside with 210 rebounds and 213 points during the sesaon. “She will sacrifice for the betterment of the team and is willing to lead by example,” said Pirates coach Lisa McKinley. “She was consistant for our team and always a go-to girl!”

Center

Janey Emery Siren

Name: Janey Emery School: Siren Comments: Emery stepped in as the starting center this season, and she gave the Dragons scoring and defense in the paint on their way to a co-conference championship. She has the ability to beat players off the dribble in the post. Emery had 12.3 points per game in 22 games this season.

Small Forward

Melanie Chenal Frederic

Name: Melanie Chenal School: Frederic Comments: Melanie Chenal was one of the top scorers on the Vikings team this season, and could rebound with the best of anyone.

Chenal continuously posted double-doubles and showed that she will definitely be a force next season for her senior year.

First team guards, MVP and rookie MVP

Mollie Bjelland Grantsburg

Name: Mollie Bjelland School: Grantsburg Comments: Not bad for a third-best sport. This Pirates guard hit for 1,000 career points during her senior season and led the Pirates to a co-conference title. She can also steal the ball with 62 steals this sesaon. “Her jumping ability makes her a defensive threat all over the court,” said Pirates coach Lisa McKinley.

Point Guard

Kelly Wondra Frederic

Name: Kelly Wondra School: Frederic Comments: She didn’t throw many points onto the board this season, but Kelly Wondra was one of the most integral parts of the Vikings team this season in the ways of team leadership and control on offense. She led her team in assists and pushed the ball up the court when other teams added pressure for turnovers.

Shooting Guard

Caitlin Flanigan Siren

Name: Caitlin Flanigan School: Siren Comments: There isn’t a single coach that would pass up the opportunity to have Caitlin Flanigan on their team. Flanigan finished off her 1,000 point season by helping the Dragons make it to the Regional Championship game, and it wasn’t uncommon for the senior guard to shoot 20 points or more in a game.

Rookie of the year

Marissa Campeau St. Croix Falls

Name:Marissa Campeau School: St. Croix Falls Comments: If this freshman keeps improving, SCF has a bright basketball future. Campeau came onto the scene as a scorer, rebounder and shot blocker for the Saints this season. Luck coach Marty Messar describer her as, “A freshman that impressed us with skills and competitive spirit.”

Second team coach and post players Coach

Troy Wink Frederic

Name: Troy Wink School: Frederic Comments: In his seventh year as the head girls basketaball coach in Frederic, Troy Wink can smile about the team’s success this season. He coached the team to his first-ever playoff win against Bruce, and finished the season with a third-place 8-4 conference record and an overall record of 14-6.

Power Forward

Beth Baer Webster

Name: Beth Baer School: Webster Comments: Beth Baer was a key player on the Webster team this season. With her ability to score under the basket on offense, and key rebounding abilities on defense she will definitely be a welcome addition to the Tiger offense for her senior year next sason.

Baer can also help the team force turnovers.

Center

Ali Lake Frederic

Name: Ali Lake School: Frederic Comments: Ali Lake steadily improved as the season wore on, and proved that she could be a powerful force on defense and offense.

When Frederic needed a strong body under the basket, Lake was a good target to power through the opposing team to get a bucket when it mattered most.

Small Forward

Megan Hacker Luck

Name: Megan Hacker School: Luck Comments: Megan Hacker led the Cardinals in scoring this season.

She can post up inside and play defense down low. She also rebounded effectively on both sides of the floor. This junior could help the young Cardinals move forward in the standings next season.

Second team guards, sixth man and most improved Most Improved

Andrea Thompson Unity

Name: Andrea Thompson School: Unity Comments: Andrea Thompson emerged as a scorer for a team that struggled offensively.

Eagles coach Chuck Holicky had said she has a good shooting technique. Thompson hit double digits several times.

As a junior, the Eagles could see more offense next season.

Shooting Guard

Guard

Megan Finch Grantsburg

Name: Megan Finch School: Grantsburg Comments: Finch had 68 boards this season and 8.9 ponts per game.

“Her composure developed over the season, and will be a threat next season,” said Pirates coach Lisa McKinley. She would be involved in fast breaks though McKinley had her be the first player back on the defensive end.

Becca Anderson Frederic

Name: Becca Anderson School: Frederic Comments: Sophomore Becca Anderson made some key buckets this season, and is an upand-coming player to watch for next year. She can handle the ball under pressure and key in on a three-point basket if the game calls for it.

Anderson is also quick to move to the ball when plays open up down the

Sixth Man

Ingrid Ames Grantsburg

Name: Ingrid Ames School: Grantsburg Comments: Ames came off the bench to help the Pirates in scoring and defense. She had 28 steals and 73 boards on the season along with 110 total points. “She is fast and aggressive,” said Pirates coach Lisa McKinley. “She reads the court well and gets the steal or causes the turnover.”

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 b l u m k i n @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t o r m s e e g e r @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

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Rrr...runner-up! Tigers finish in second Season ends against E.C. Regis, but not without out a fight E.C. Regis 56, Webster 43

by Marty Seeger and Matt Blumkin EAU CLAIRE – The Webster Tigers didn’t convert the Eau Claire North Huskies’ gymnasium, the Dog House, into the Cat House at the sectional finals on March 10.

Yet, they did come away with second place in their first-ever sectional appearance. They beat the Cameron Comets, 40-29, on March 8 before falling to the Eau Claire Regis Ramblers, 56-43, at North on March 10.

“We wanted to hang a banner, but you gotta win the conference or you gott get the sectional title, but it was a good run,” said Tigers coach Randy Hedrick. “They’re good kids, they played hard. That’s all I can ask for as a coach.”

“There is nothing wrong with Eau Claire Regis, you’ve got to give them a little credit,” said Hedrick. “They really played a good game.”

Ramblers The jumped out to a 5-0 lead with a three by Kilian Murphy, but Webster’s Paul Olesen answered back with a three of his own to give the team and fans something to cheer about.

“We just came out and tried to stick to our game plan at the beginning of the game, play defense and bring it inside,” said Tigers forward Brian Thill.

It kept them in striking distance at first. The Ramblers stretched their lead to 8-3 with just over four minutes to go in the first with a 3-pointer by Dwayne Gruhlke, and Webster slowed the pace

Webster’s Brian Thill coming down with a board against Regis on March 10.

Thill had five boards and 11 points in the game. Yet, Regis had their way on the boards with Webster only garnering nine defensive boards and one offensive board. – Photo by Matt Blumkin down and quickly cut the lead to one, 8- start of the quarter, while holding 7, with two shots in the paint from Thill Webster to seven points until just over and A.J. Holmquist. Regis would get three minutes remaining in the half. The the rest of the points in the first quarter Tigers broke the ice when Thill put two and hold the Tigers to seven points for on the board on a pass from Olesen. over three minutes to end the quarter “We knocked down a few shots in the ahead, 12-7. first half,” said Hedrick. “I thought “We were too reluctant to shoot, and maybe we can get over that hump, but we should have just been firing away,” we got stuck on seven there a little too said Tigers guard Peter Walsh. long.”

Firing away from 3-point land by the Rambler forward Zac Berry would Ramblers put the hurt on the Tigers in bobble the ball on the next play, and the second quarter. Murphy hit a pair of suddenly, the Tigers grabbed a new threes to help build a 20-7 Rambler lead. spark. They couldn’t get a shot to fall on They also began to stall a little at the the turnover, but a steal by Walsh led to a Brian Gibbs 3-pointer, and the Tigers cut the Rambler lead to eight, 20-12.

Olesen and Gibbs teamed up on a rebound, and with 3 seconds and counting, Webster prepared for the final shot of the first half, but the Rambler student section started counting ahead of the clock, and it forced Olesen to shoot early. It gave Ramblers guard/forward Matt Demars a desperation shot just over half-court, and he sunk it to give the Ramblers a 23-12 lead at the half.

“That is kind of a little dagger, and it hurt, but a little credit to their fans,” said Hedrick. “I mean they counted down and Paul got a little anxious and shot too soon. We haven’t seen a crowd in that situation, and how do you coach that?”

The Tigers proved that the half-court play at the end of the half didn’t matter.

Gibbs knocked down three 3-pointers early in the third quarter, which forced Regis to take a timeout with 4:40 on the clock.

“At halftime, I told Brian Gibbs, ‘even if they’re coming at you and you think Team E.C. Regis Webster

Tigers forward Paul Olesen in traffic against the E.C. Regis Ramblers.

Olesen had five points and two boards against the Ramblers since they double-teamed him regularly. – Photo by Marty Seeger

1 2 3 4 12 11 16 17 7 5 14 17 Individual Statistics E.C. Regis 2s 3s FTM/A Nate Pica-Anderson 0 0 4/6 Killian Murphy 2 3 4/4 Dwayne Gruhlke 3 1 2/2 Matt DeMars 2 1 0/2 Zac Berry 2 0 0/1 Paul Mertens 6 0 3/5 Totals 15 5 13/20

F 1 1 1 2 2 4 11

TP 4 17 11 7 4 13 56

Webster Peter Walsh Brian Gibbs A.J. Holmquist Paul Olesen Brian Thill Kevin Ingalls Totals

F 3 0 0 4 4 0 11

TP 3 18 4 5 11 2 43

2s 0 2 1 1 3 1 8

3s 1 4 0 1 0 0 6

FTM/A 0/0 2/2 2/2 0/0 5/6 0/0 9/10

F 56 43

they’re going to block it, just shoot it,’” said Walsh.

Gibbs connected on 4-6 threes, and he had 18 points in the game, a playoff high for the junior guard.

“I told them, somebody had to get hot,” said Hedrick. “We had to keep giving it to them and giving it to them.

To their (Regis’) credit, they shut it down and they’ve seen it before, but it was a good run, and it was nice to see him on fire a little bit.”

The Tigers cut the Ramblers’ lead to eight for much of the quarter, but they continued to shoot the ball well and didn’t give any points away. At one point in the final minute of the third, Thill was fouled outside the arc and went to the line for three shots, but he hit only 1-3 free throws. The Ramblers stalled their way into the fourth quarter with a 39-26 lead.

“It wasn’t anything we haven’t seen,” said Walsh. “It was mainly their offense getting the best of us.”

The Tigers got as close as 12 points in the fourth quarter, but they couldn’t seem to get the game any closer for a comeback. Webster’ defense showed some spark in trying to switch the momentum of the game, with Walsh picking up a steal and a 3-pointer, but it wasn’t enough.

“We knew they were going to be tough, and we knew it was going to be a good game,” said Gibbs. “They outplayed us, and they did well on offense and defense. It’s sad to see it had to end for the seniors, but we had a great season.”

They had improved from being an 1110 ball club the year before to regional champions and sectional runner-up this year. They finished the season with a 22-3 mark and a No. 14 ranking in the state.

“I think the thing I’ll remember most it the team, the unity we had,” said Walsh. “We had fun. We gave it our best shot.”

Extra Points ••• ROSEMOUNT, MINN. – There’s no place like dome. Jessica Lundgren, a former St. Croix Falls softball standout, scored her first collegiate run in UW-River Falls’ 9-1 win over St. Catherine at the Rosemount Dome on March 7. The Falcons stand at 5-1 so far this season. Former Grantsburg students Elise Johnson (Carleton College) and Shelby Durand (UWSuperior) also play for college teams in the region. – Matt Blumkin ••• MADISON – Webster-SirenFrederic-Luck-Grantsburg Blizzard defenseman Ethan Hayes earned honorable metion for the all-state hockey team. Hayes, a senior at Frederic, helped the Blizzard to a 156-1 record this season and a regional final appearance against state runnerup Superior. – Matt Blumkin ••• TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Mark Hallberg, a former Unity Little Leaguer, had a run and two RBI’s in Florida State’s 6-0 win over Indiana on March 9. He scored two runs and three RBI’s during the Seminoles’ (200) sweep of the Hoosiers. Hallberg has averaged .370 at the plate along with 26 RBI’s and 24 runs scored. – Matt Blumkin ••• LEADER LAND – Many former area athletes compete in college athletics. If you know of an athlete not mentioned on these pages, send us an e-mail and let us know! – Matt Blumkin and Marty Seeger

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MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

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More from Webster’s successful season

Scenes like these are hard to beat in high school basketball. The Webster cheerleaders played a big role in bringing the Tigers to their feet to cheer on the team. -Photo by Marty Seeger Each Webster player on the varsity team picked up a medal for their accomplishments after the game last Saturday against Regis. Adam Baum (pictured above) was one player to receive an award. -Photo by Matt Blumkin

Brian Thill was hacked beyond the 3-point line in Saturday night’s game against Regis. Thill went to the line to shoot three shots from the foul line, but couldn’t get any to fall. Photo by Marty Seeger

Peter Walsh signs autographs after their big win over Cameron last Thursday night. Walsh’s crosscountry coach Jim Muus is shown in the background waiting to congratulate Walsh as well.- Photo by Matt Blumkin

Webster coach Randy Hedrick had a lot to smile about in their win against Cameron, and a reason to smile about his entire season. -Photo

by Matt Blumkin

The gym in Rice Lake was painted orange and blue as a sold-out crowd enjoyed an action-packed game. -Photo by Marty Seeger

The Webster pep band played their hearts out in some of the most exciting basketball action the school has seen in a long time.- Photo by Matt Blumkin

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

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Webster fans embrace their Tigers Crowds showed up in droves and from long distances to cheer on Tigers

by Matt Blumkin EAU CLAIRE – With Webster’s tournament run coming to an end also ended the travels of hundreds of Tigers fans, young an old, for this season.

“It’s been several years, and I still feel like I’m part of it,” said former Webster teacher Tom Lawrynk, who now teaches at La Crosse Central.

“All the guys that were leaders were the guys I had in middle school football because I coached that, and almost all of them I had as freshman in school too.

It’s kind of like seeing them grow up without me being there.”

Lawrynk, as others did, made the trip from outside of the area to catch the Tigers at least once during their tournament run.

“My folks drove all the way from Kansas City to see the Glenwood City game,” said Steve Holmquist, the father of Tigers guard A.J. Holmquist. “They left at five in the morning, got to Amery a three in the afternoon, had four hours to kill.”

The Webster fans helped cheer their team on loudly every step of the way.

Even in the final seconds, the crowd could be heard over the Regis fans. Photo by Matt Blumkin “I’ve seen people here tonight I tional final crowd. “There’s probably haven’t seen in 10 years from Webster nobody left up there.”

Stores around Webster closed during coming out of the woodworks,” Holmquist added regarding the sec- the afternoon as the town had been fix-

Brian Gibbs (far left) was at the front of a mad scramble for the ball in the first period of their game against the Ramblers last Saturday. Brian Thill (24) and Regis Guard Kilian Murphy (12) is also on the hunt for the ball. Murphy was a major problem for the Tigers Saturday, with his ability to shoot and handle the ball. Murphy was also extremely quick. - Photo by Marty Seeger

ated on their beloved Tigers. Following their wins over Glenwood City and Cameron, the team bus returned to a spontaneous parade of fire trucks, ambulances and honking horns in the village.

“They’re great kids and they deserve it,” said Webster Principal Tim Widiker.

Besides beating two ranked opponents to reach the sectional finals, the Tigers players excel off the court. The whole team has made the honor roll at school.

“They’re some of the best kids, good hearts, good heads,” said Lawrynk. “I teach at a big school, and I have not seen a better group of kids than this group here.”

The players themselves have appreciated seeing bleachers full of black and orange wherever they’ve played. The school sold 725 tickets for the Regis game.

“There’s a lot of fans here that really moved us,” said Tigers guard Brian Gibbs following the win over Cameron.

“That really kept us going.”

Brian Gibbs notched his third 3pointer of the game during the third period against Regis last Saturday.

The series of points brought the Tigers back into contention to give the fans an extra thrill. -Photo by Marty Seeger

All-Conference basketball selections are in

Pictured back row (L to R): Andrea Thompson (Unity), Sasha Bryant (St. Croix Falls), Melanie Chenal (Frederic), Ali Lake (Frederic) and Kelly Wondra (Frederic). Middle row (L to R): Caitlin Flanigan (Siren), Janey Emery (Siren), Brittany Jaskolka (Siren) and Amanda Peterson (Siren).

Front row (L to R): Mollie Bjelland (Grantsburg), Miranda Kammeyer (Grantsburg) and Megan Finch (Grantsburg). - Photo by Marty Seeger

Pictured back row (L to R): Brian Thill (Webster), Paul Olesen (Webster) and Brian Gibbs (Webster). Middle row (L to R): Travis Pilz (Luck), Brennan Olson (Luck), Cody Richert (Luck), Ben Larson (Grantsburg) and Trent Bonneville (Grantsburg). Front row (L to R): Matt Goulet (Unity), Chris Bugg (Unity), Adam Daniels (Unity) and Jake Schmidt (Frederic). - Photo by Marty Seeger

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MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

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Tigers dust Comets 40-29 Tigers make Comets pay on defense and at the stripe Webster 40, Cameron 29

by Marty Seeger and Matt Blumkin RICE LAKE – With a strong defensive effort and free-throw shooting, the Webster Tigers caused Cameron’s lesspreferred version of comet-crashing, losing.

“We turned it up on the defensive side,” said Tigers forward Brian Thill.

“It’s what we’ve been doing all season.”

Their defense helped secure a 40-29 win over the Comets in the sectional semifinals on March 8. In addition, they sealed the game with their free-throw shooting to send Cameron home.

The Tigers allowed an average of 39.6 points per game during the season, and they slowed the Comets from 56.2 points per game on the season to just 29 in the semis. Their pressure defense created rushed and missed shots along with 25 defensive boards, five blocks and six steals.

“People don’t give us enough credit for that,” said Tigers coach Randy Hedrick. “I think that the kids really work their tails off in practice, and I’ve stressed that since day one. That’s how you win championships. You can have the best offense in the world, but somebody could shut you down.”

They did just that against the Comets in jumping out to a 10-2 lead until 3:32 remained in the first quarter. Paul Olesen got the first two buckets of the game on the inside, and Brian Thill picked up two more just seconds after Kevin Ingalls landed a block. Ingalls then hit a jumper, and Thill put up another bucket.

“I couldn’t let him shoot that one in my face,” Ingalls said chuckling about the block.

They held an eight-point lead through most of the second quarter too, 12-4. But the Comets got in the Tigers’ faces quickly with a 7-0 run.

Cameron’s Jesse Linsmeyer landed a quick steal off of an inbound pass and quickly passed the ball off to Brady Czyscon for two plus a foul. Seconds later, Linsmeyer forced another turnover, and he dished it off to Deven Brion, who hit a big three off the right elbow to bring the Comets to within one. A close contest didn’t shake the Tigers though.

“That’s all the playoffs have been pretty much so far, so it really wasn’t

Webster didn’t make it easy for the Comets in their game last Thursday night. Here A.J. Holmquist (L) and Kevin Ingalls (R) keep a Cameron guard from scoring under the basket. -Photo by Marty Seeger too much,” said Thill.

Ingalls quickly countered the Comet retaliation with a three of his own to send the Tigers into the locker room with a 15-11 lead.

“They just gave me an open shot,” said Ingalls, who added that he had been struggling all year long with shooting beyond the arc, but it had been starting to click as playoffs progressed.

With continued offensive struggles, the Tigers saw the Comets whittle their lead down to a point again, 21-19, by the end of the third quarter. Linsmeyer got a shot under the basket to cut the lead to 21-20, and hit a free throw to

slice it to one. Olesen and Brian Gibbs each had bumped the lead to six with scores during the third, but Linsmeyer’s points completed a 5-0 run to close the quarter for the Comets.

Then, the Tigers came alive on offense in the fourth. Olesen scored a bucket to up the Tigers by three, and Thill rebounded his own miss to give the Tigers a 25-20 lead.

“I’ve talked to the kids since the first day of practice, ’we win games if we shoot in the paint,’” said Hedrick.

“They certainly didn’t match up with us very well inside, so we took it to them.”

Thill scored nine of his 15 points in the final quarter. He later picked up a basket and a free throw, and he hit a bucket to give them a 30-26 lead with around 2:15 remaining.

“As the game went on longer, we just realized how much closer and closer we’re getting to winning, so we got more desperate,” said Thill.

Then, Olesen drew a foul and nailed a pair of free throws. That started a string of eight consecutive free throws made by the Tigers to end the game.

“I think that’s what coach is probably most happy with is how we hit free throws,” said Thill. “He makes it a point for us to work on them especially after practice.”

Free throws had been a deciding factor in key wins and losses over Luck and St. Croix Falls this season. They hit just 11-21 in a 54-46 loss to Luck on Dec. 5 and 10-19 in a 41-40 loss to SCF on Feb. 6. In their wins over Luck, they hit 3-7 on Jan. 19 and 9-14 in the regional semis on March 4. They also made 7-13 in just escaping SCF, 44-42, on Jan. 30.

“That’s been our downside, we haven’t shot over 60 percent pretty much all year,” said Hedrick.

This time, Cameron saw the slim Tigers lead balloon to double digits with their pinpoint free-throw shooting. Olesen also made a block toward the end to help secure a 10-2 run to finish the game, just as they started.

Paul Olesen (L) nabs a big rebound over Cameron’s Jesse Linsmeyer (R).

Brian Gibbs looks on at the bottom left of the photo. -Photo by Marty Seeger

The Tiger fans were fired up for the enitre game last Thursday night. Photo by Matt Blumkin

Brian Thill had time to sign a few autographs for the younger fans after their win over the Comets. - Photo by Marty Seeger

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

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Warriors falls to Gilman Pirates in Spooner Gilman 59, Clear Lake 40

by Matt Blumkin SPOONER — The Clear Lake Warriors’ postseason run came to an end at the Spooner sectionals on March 9.

They ran up against 22-3 Gilman of the Cloverbelt Conference. Gilman went on to win the Division 4 sectional and advance to state. The Warriors ended their season with a 17-7 overall LEFT: Jason Sargent coached the Warriors to a second-place tie in the Central Lakeland Conference and a regional championship this season.

CENTER: Luke Gorsskreutz of Clear Lake taking a shot over Gilman’s Trevor Rosemeyer. RIGHT: Clear Lake’s Vance Friendshuh bringing up the ball for the Warriors. — Photos by John Reed

State wrestling qualifier results

Consolation Champs!

Back row (L to R): Tanner Lee, Brady Mangen, Max Lindquist, Aubri Nine members of the Burnett County Bulldogs traveled to River Falls for the state qualifier on Saturday, March 10. The Bulldogs had a very successful day. Larson and Bailey Mangen. Middle row (L to R): Andrew Ruiz, Jordan For Bulldogs, Dakota Schultz, second grade, Nick Britton, fifth grade, and Tony Larson, Jenna Curtis and Dylan Strait. Pictured at front is Garret Hunter.

Britton, fourth grade, this was their first trip to the qualifer. Dakota Schultz – Photo submitted placed second and earned a trip to Madison. Nick Britton placed third and Tony Britton placed fourth.

Grantsburg Youth Hockey Joshua Glover, fourth grade, wrestled five grueling matches and lost in New Richmond Tournament quadruple overtime 5-4 to take third place. Joseph Gaffney, fifth grade, earned third place. Austin Swenson, fifth grade, placed second and Tristan Brewer, Blizzard Mite A Blizzard 8, New Richmond B, 0 fourth grade, took first place. Austin and Tristan both earned their way to Goals: Jenna Curtis (3), Brady Mangen (1), Madison as well. David St. John Jr., fifth grade, placed second, he will be stateDylan Strait (2), Andrew Ruiz (2) bound as well. Seth Stoner, eighth grade placed third. The state wrestling tourGoalie: Garret Hunter 3 saves nament is on Friday and Saturday March 23 and 24.

Blizzard 5, Eagle River 11 Goals: Jenna Curtis (3), Brady Mangen (1), Pictured are: Austin Swenson, fifth grade, second place, Joshua Glover, third Dylan Strait (1) grade, third place, Tristan Brewer, fourth grade, first place, Joseph Gaffney fifth Assists: Jenna Curtis (2) grade, third place, Nick Britton, fifth grade, third place, Dakota Schultz, second Goalie: Garret Hunter 11 saves Blizzard 4, Baldwin 1 grade, second place, Tony Britton, fourth grade, fourth place. Not pictured David Goals: Jenna Curtis (3), Dylan Strait (1) St. John Jr., fifth grade, second place, Seth Stoner, eighth grade, third place. – Goalie: Garret Hunter 12 saves Photo submitted

Life isn’t a spectator sport.

Read Leader Sports!

P ACKERS -V IKINGS

S

OAPBOX

Next: Bad boy bargain or Hopeless Hero?

You can either love him or hate him, and for Packer fans across the state, it sounds like a little more on the hate side. Packers general manager Ted Thompson is outlining plans to acquire former Viking Randy Moss,.according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and it is said that two out of three fans opposes the the thought. When Moss fake-mooned the crowd, I laughed because I thought it was funny, but also because he was part of the Vikings. It was great to see that the Packers were free of that one player that tends to ruin an entire team just by running his mouth. Green Bay might be able to work out a great deal with Moss, and his talent is unbelievable, so maybe we could use him for just one season, go to the Super Bowl and trade him off to some other team like we did with Andre Rison. The Packers haven’t always had the most well-behaved players, but for the most part we’ve been trouble free. I hope Thompson seriously thinks about this one. – Marty Seeger

Next: Play against Randy Moss?

Yes, Randy Moss could be standing across from the Vikings’ secondary at the line of scrimmage twice a year now. That would happen if the Green Bay Packers go through with the dangerous move of aquiring wide receiver Moss from the Oakland Raiders.

Most Vikings fans probably don’t want to see Moss set foot in the Metrodome again anytime soon, especially once a season.

Moreover, in the event a Moss trade does benefit the Pack, it would be even more humiliating for the Vikings in having ever traded him. Why couldn’t have the Vikings acquired a receiver that would have the leverage that Cris Carter had with Moss.

Receiver Jerry Rice was cut by the Denver Broncos in 2005 at the tail end of his career.

Oh well, too late. Just go back to wondering what could have been for the Vikes on the latest version of EA’s John Madden Football. In the meantime of Moss’s latest news, questions need to be answered about what the Vikes are doing with their offsea-

PREPS TEAM: Webster Tigers Boys Basketball COMMENTS: What a week!

The Webster Tigers boys basketball deservedly earned preps of the week for this week with their run over the past week. It began with a 37-36 overtime comeback win at home over Luck and ended with knocking on the door of the state tournament in Eau Claire. They came in second at the sectional finals in their loss to Eau Claire, but they left Webster fans with much to remember for years to come. The Tigers ousted Glenwood City, 34-26, in the regional finals to capture the school’s first regional title.

They then took out Cameron in Rice Lake to win their firstever sectional game, and they held the Comets to just 26 points. Congratulations to the Webster Tigers on a great season! – Matt Blumkin

OF THE

WEEK

The Tigers holding up their regional championship trophy after beating Glenwood City in the regional finals on March 5. They kept their tournament run going with a win over Cameron in the sectional semifinals. Webster took the runner-up spot in a loss to E.C. Regis, which left the Tigers a game away from state and among the top eight teams in Division 3. – Photo by Matt Blumkin

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

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All-Conference wrestlers announced Fifteen Leader Land wrestlers recognized

by Marty Seeger LEADER LAND – Wrestlers in the area that completed a successful season are still getting recognition for their accomplishments.

St. Croix Falls was the team with the most wrestlers with all-conference honors, including Justin Rikkola (103), Justin Holmdahl (130), Dan Larson (135), Dustin Raygor (152), Shawn (160), Castorena Issac Bont (171),

Mike Lamirande (215) and Jordan Beauvais (285).

Some of those wrestlers also received all-state recognition

by Crossface magazine, which includes Rikkola, Bruns, Holmdahl, Raygor and Lamirande.

The Unity team also listed wrestlers on the all-conference list this season.

Devin Hoyt (119) was one who made the list as a regional champion, sectional runner-up and state runner-up.

Dustin McKinney made all-conference as well, and had a successful year as regional champion, sectional runner-up and state runner-up.

Leader Sports: Bringing you championship coverage!

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NCAA MARCH MADNESS ’05 RULES: In addition to keeping track of how many games each participant called correctly or incorrectly, points will be awarded for correct calls in each round. Points will be awarded as follows: Round of 64 game = 1 point; round of 32 game = 2 points; Sweet 16 game = 4 points; Elite Eight game = 8 points; Final Four = 16 points; NCAA Championship game = 32 points. To prevent a tie, all participants will predict the final score of the NCAA Championship Game; whoever calls it closest to the actual score will receive a 64-point bonus to their final point total. Closeness to final score will be determined by adding up the distance over or under of both actual scores, then adding the two totals. Example: Guess score 60-55. Actual score: 67-52. Seven under+three Participants W-L (Points) Round of 64 St. Louis Bracket Florida (#1) vs. Jackson St. (#16) Arizona (#8) vs. Purdue (#9) Butler (#5) vs. Old Dominion (#12) Maryland (#4) vs. Davidson (#13) Notre Dame (#6) vs. Winthrop (#11) Oregon (#3) vs. Miami-Ohio (#14) UNLV (#7) vs. Georgia Tech (#10) Wisconsin (#2) vs. Texas A&M-Corpus Christi (#15) San Jose, C.A. Bracket Kansas (#1) vs. Florida A&M/Niagra (#16) Kentucky (#8) vs. Villanova (#9) Virginia Tech (#5) vs. Illinois (#12) Southern Illinois (#4) vs. Holy Cross (#13) Duke (#6) vs. VCU (#11) Pittsburgh (#3) vs. Wright St. (#14) Indiana (#7) vs. Gonzaga (#10) UCLA (#2) vs. Weber State (#15) East Rutherford, N.J. Bracket North Carolina (#1) vs. E. Kentucky (#16) Marquette (#8) vs. Michigan St. (#9) Southern Cal (#5) vs. Arkansas (#12) Texas (#4) vs. New Mexico St. (#13) Vanderbilt (#6) vs. George Washington (#11) Washington St. (#3) vs. Oral Roberts (#14) Boston College (#7) vs. Texas Tech (#10) Georgetown (#2) vs. Belmont (#15) San Antonio Bracket Ohio St. (#1) vs. Central Conneticut St. (#16) BYU (#8) vs. Xavier (#9) Tennessee (#5) vs. Long Beach St. (#12) Virginia (#4) vs. Albany, N.Y. (#13) Louisville (#6) vs. Stanford (#11) Texas A&M (#3) vs. Pennsylvania (#14) Nevada (#7) vs. Creighton (#10) Memphis (#2) vs. North Texas (#15) Round of 32 St. Louis Bracket Florida/Jackson St. winner vs. Arizona/Purdue winner Butler/Old Dominion winner vs. Maryland/Davidson winner Notre Dame/Winthrop winner vs. Oregon/Miami-Ohio winner UNLV/Georgia Tech winner vs. Wisconsin/Texas A&M-CC winner San Jose, C.A. Bracket Kansas/Florida A&M/Niagara winner vs. Kentucky/Villanova winner Virginia Tech/Illinois winner vs. Southern Illinois/Holy Cross winner Duke/VCU winner vs. Pittsburgh/Wright St. winner Indiana/Gonzaga winner vs. UCLA/Weber St. winner East Rutherford, N.J. Bracket North Carolina/E. Kentucky winner vs. Marquette/Michigan St. winner Southern Cal/Arkansas winner vs. Texas/New Mexico St. winner Vanderbilt/George Washington winner vs. Washington St./Oral Roberts winner Boston College/Texas Tech winner vs. Georgetown/Belmont winner San Antonio Bracket Ohio St./Cen. Conn. St. winner vs. BYU/Xavier winner Tennessee/Long Beach St. winner vs. Virginia/Albany, N.Y. winner Louisville/Stanford winner vs. Texas A&M/Pennsylvania winner Nevada/Creighton winner vs. Memphis/North Texas winner

Matt Blumkin 0-0 (0)

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Florida Arizona Butler Maryland Notre Dame Oregon Georgia Tech Wisconsin

Florida Arizona Butler Maryland Winthrop Oregon UNLV Wisconsin

Florida Purdue Butler Maryland Notre Dame Oregon Georgia Tech Wisconsin

Kansas Villanova Illinois Southern Illinois Duke Pittsburgh Gonzaga UCLA

Kansas Kentucky Illinois Southern Illinois Duke Pittsburgh Gonzaga UCLA

Kansas Kentucky Illinois Southern Illinois Duke Pittsburgh Indiana UCLA

North Carolina Michigan St. Arkansas Texas Vanderbilt Washington State Texas Tech Georgetown

North Carolina Marquette Arkansas Texas Vanderbilt Washington State Boston College Georgetown

North Carolina Michigan St. Southern Cal Texas Vanderbilt Washington St. Boston College Georgetown

Ohio State Xavier Tennessee Viriginia Louisville Texas A&M Creighton Memphis

Ohio State Xavier Tennessee Virginia Louisville Texas A&M Nevada Memphis

Ohio State BYU Tennessee Virginia Stanford Texas A&M Nevada Memphis

Florida Maryland Notre Dame Wisconsin

Florida Maryland Oregon Wisconsin

Purdue Maryland Notre Dame Wisconsin

Kansas Illinois Duke UCLA

Kansas Illinois Duke UCLA

Kansas Southern Illinois Pittsburgh Indiana

North Carolina Texas Washington St. Georgetown

North Carolina Texas Vanderbilt Georgetown

Michigan St. Texas Washington St. Georgetown

Ohio State Tennessee Louisville Mephis

Ohio State Virginia Louisville Memphis

Ohio State Tennessee Texas A&M Memphis

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

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WISC elects regional commissioner POLK COUNTY – The board of directors of the Wisconsin Indianhead Soccer Club met recently to elect a new regional commissioner. Brenda Buck of Bone Lake was selected to coordinate the club’s activities for the next three years. Buck stated, “I am excited to be part of an organization where all children that want to play soccer, can, and good sportsmanship is highly valued.

AYSO has lots of opportunities for parent and community involvement.

Everyone can get in on the fun.”

WISC is a part of a nationwide youth soccer program, the American Youth Soccer Organization. AYSO is a youth development program that uses soccer as its medium. AYSO’s vision is “to provide world class youth soccer that enrich children’s lives.” Its philoso-

A R E A Hacker’s Lanes Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: Storm Chasers 45, Spare-Us 43, Hot Shots 39, Underdogs 36, Sandbaggers 35, Flame Throwers 33, Gems 28, Misfits 21.

Men’s games: Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 206, Kenny Erickson (Storm Chasers) 192, Mac McCann (Underdogs) 190.

Men’s series: Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 538, Chuck Moyer (Sandbaggers) 521, Kenny Erickson ( Storm Chasers) 516.

Women’s games: Gail Linke (Storm Chasers) 181, LuAnn White (Spare-Us) 167, Edla Meyer (Sandbaggers) 158.

Women’s series: Gail Linke (Storm Chasers) 497, LuAnn White (Spare-Us) 467, Edla Meyer (Sandbaggers) 439.

Team games: Spare-Us 821, Storm Chasers 819, Sandbaggers 789.

Team series: Spare-Us 2369, Storm Chasers 2331, Sandbaggers 2327.

Splits converted: 9-6-7-10: Gail Linke.

Monday Afternoon Retired Standings: Eagles 24, Nite Hawks 16, Swans 13, Badgers 11.

Men’s games: Dick Coen (Nite Hawks) 197, Roger Messer (Eagles) 188, Tony Diess (Swans) 155.

Men’s series: Dick Coen (Nite Hawks) 551, Roger Messer (Eagles) 495, Tony Diess (Swans) 441.

Women’s games: Lila Larson (Badgers) 179, Lucy Hansen (Eagles) & Thelma Hendricks (Nite Hawks) 175, Betty Anderson (Badgers) 155.

Women’s series: Lila Larson (Badgers) 467, Lucy Hansen (Eagles) 462, Carol Phelps (Eagles) 446.

Team games: Nite Hawks 670, Eagles 610, Swans 610.

Team series: Nite Hawks 1908, Eagles 1787, Swans 1734.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: House of Wood 47, Adventures 46, The Bottle Shop 44, S&C Bank 34, Mane Attractions 34, Hacker’s Lanes 32, Miller Chicks 22, Radio Shack 19.

Individual games: Kelly Schmidt (MC) 228, Barb Morgan (HL) 206, Cherrise Miller (MC) 199.

Individual series: Barb Morgan (HL) 529, Nancy Anderson (HL) 525, Kelly Schmidt (MC) 517.

Team games: Hacker’s Lanes 683, House of Wood 648, Mane Attractions 629.

Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 1922, Mane Attractions 1802, House of Wood 1748.

Tuesday Youth (2 games) Standings: King Pin 17, Pin Patrol 14, LAM Bowlers 13.5, The Pin Heads 13, Frederic Bowlers 12.5, J.K.A. Bowlers 11, Rock Hard Bowlers 9, Strikes “R” Us 6.

Boys games: Logan Hacker 206 & 139, Andrew Sund 136.

Boys series: Logan Hacker 345, Andrew Sund 231, Charlie Lindberg 222, A.J. Walsh Brenizer 222.

Girls games: Alicia Sund 111 & 89.

Girls series: Alicia Sund 200.

Team games: LAM Bowlers 419 & 354, The Pin Heads 355.

Team series: LAM Bowlers 773, The Pin Heads 653, Pin Patrol 618.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 97, Great Northern Outdoors 89.5, Bottle Shop 78, Hog Wild 72.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 62, Oddballs 53, Ward Lake Services 40, Pioneer Bar 28.

phies include: everyone plays, balanced teams, open registration, positive coaching and good sportsmanship.

The local region includes the Unity, Frederic and Luck School districts.

Board of directors are Becky Zahler, Anita Johnson, Denette Johnson, Diana Walton, Nance Keenan, Scott Williamson and Mike Rozumalski.

WISC will begin its season as soon as the soccer fields are snow free and dry.

The soccer club is looking for volunteers to serve as referees, coaches and other positions. Training for all of the volunteer positions are coming soon.

For further information call Brenda Buck at 715-472-4069, Mike Rozumalski at 715-472-4895 or any board member.

Adults experience the rewards of volunteering for the AYSO soccer program. – Photo submitted

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Men’s games: Gene Ackland 257, Rita Bohn 257, Ron Skow 256.

Men’s series: Ron Skow 668, Bruce Gravelle 657, Gene Ackland 654.

Team games: Hog Wild 683, Hacker’s Lanes 659, Great Northern Outdoors 642.

Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 1845, Great Northern Outdoors 1797, Hog Wild 1764.

Wednesday Afternoon Ladies Standings: Pioneer Bar 7-59, Frandsen Dairy 5-54, All Around Gals 7-43, Crazy Ladies 2-34, Hacker’s Lanes 0-30.

Individual games: Diana Erickson (PB) 197, Marvel Beckman (CL) 196, Pat Bresnia (AAG) & Julie Young (PB) 185.

Individual series: Julie Young (PB) 532, Diana Erickson (PB) & Margie Traun (AAG) 499.

Team games: Pioneer Bar 820, All Around Gals 796 & 774.

Team series: Pioneer Bar 2304, All Around Gals 2236, Frandsen Dairy 2142.

Wednesday Night Early Men Standings: Skol Bar 29, Parker 27, Lewis Silo 23, Cummings Lumber 21, A1 Machine 19, Pioneer Bar 19, Jack Pine Trading 17, Bye 5.

Individual games: Scott Morrison (A-1) 245, Wayne Olson (LS) 244, Jon Doolittle (LS) 239.

Individual series: Duane Doolittle (LS) 650, Wayne Olson (LS) 644, Wally Nelson (PB) 638.

Team games: Parker 992, Cummings Lumber 990, Parker 975.

Team series: Parker 2837, Lewis Silo 2828, Cummings Lumber 2734.

Thursday Early 3-Man Standings: CenturyTel 11.5, Frontier Trails 11, K-Wood 10, Grindell Law Offices 8, Full Timers 5, Wikstrom Construction 3, Fab Four 2, Hell Raisers 1.5.

Individual games: Bart Sladky (GLO) 279, Don Hughes (KW) 258, Lydell Larson (FrT) 246.

Individual series: Don Hughes (KW) 649, Bart Sladky (GLO) 647, Don McKinney (FF) 632.

Team games: K-Wood 632, Grindell Law Offices 619, Frontier Trails 614.

Team series: Frontier Trails 1763, Grindell Law Offices 1758, K-Wood 1713.

Consecitive strikes (5 or more): Bart Sladky (GLO) 279, Don Hughes (KW) 258, Lydell Larson (FrT) 246, Don McKinney (FF) 224.

Games 50 or more above average: Bart Sladky (GLO) 279 (76), Lydell Larson (FrT) 246 (56).

Splits converted: 4-5: Tim Pederson (FF). 2-7: Curt LaPre (KW). 3-10: Barry Anderson (HR) Laryn Larson (HR) x2. 57: Lydell Larson (FrT).

Sunday Nite I No-Tap Mixed Standings: Packer Backers 32, No Names 31, Long Shots 28, Jeff’s Team 27, The J.C.’s 26, Late Comers 23, Happy Campers 22, Knaubers 18.

Men’s games: Don Swanson (PB) 300, Chris Rowell (NN) 277, Don Swanson (PB) and Chris Rowell (NN) 264.

Men’s series: Don Swanson (PB) 766, Chuck Kruse (JC) 721, Chris Rowell (NN) 720.

Women’s games: Debbie Swanson (PB) 274, Debbie Swanson (PB) 221, Cindy Denn (JC) 215.

Women’s series: Debbie Swanson (PB) 659, Jan Kruse (JC) 549, Wendy Knauber (K) 540.

Team games: No Names 866, Packer Backers 815, Knaubers 806.

Team series: The J.C’s 2310, No Names 2267, Packer Backers 2260.

McKenzie Lanes Monday Madness Standings: Scottay’s Trucking 52, Peper Tire & Align. 50, State Farm Ins. 49, Pepie’s Gals 38, Alleycats 37, Frederic Larsen Auto 31, McKenzie Lanes 31, Osceola Plumbing & Htg. 30.

Individual games: Debbie Swanson 203, Brenda Carlson 200, Linette Erickson 173.

Individual series: Brenda Carlson 523, Debbie Swanson 521, Barbara Benson 482.

Team games: Peper Tire & Align. 618.

Team series: Peper Tire & Align. 1750.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: McKenzie Lanes 58, Sam’s Carpentry 56.5, Metal Products 54, Milltown Appliance 52.5, Edina Divas 52.5, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 50, Bont Chiropractic 46, Jericho Trucking 30.5.

Individual games: Dana Amundson 209, Darla Bowers 205, Cindy Castellano 200.

Individual series: Dana Amundson 532, Kelley Hill 532, Donna Petersen 525.

Team games: Milltown Appliance 997, Edina Divas 977.

Team series: Milltown Appliance 2884, Metal Products 2823.

Tuesday Women’s Day Standings: Gutter Dusters 116.5, Kassel Tap 113, Country Gals 102.5, Custom Outfitter 101.5, A-1 Machine 98, B&H Builders 93.5, Hauge Dental 80, Bye 43.

Individual games: Denise F. Donaghue 183, Jane Smith 183, Fran McLeod 179.

Individual series: Jane Smith 509, Jan Kruse 483, Laurie Warndahl 475.

Team games: A-1 Machine 836, Kassel Tap 797.

Team series: A-1 Machine 2325, Kassel Tap 2266.

Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: Gutter Gals 32, Still Standing 32, 2 Stooges & Princess 26, The Gumegu’s 26, Lane Crashers 22, Bye 0.

Men’s games: Tim Katzmark 227, Guppy Gustafson 187, Erv Lehmann 182.

Men’s series: Tim Katzmark 609, Erv Lehmann 516, Guppy Gustafson 514.

Women’s games: Lonnie Curtiss 190, Patty Katzmark 182, Linda Katzmark 176.

Women’s series: Lonnie Curtiss 513, Linda Katzmark 462, Becky Eklof 456.

Team games: 2 Stooges & Princess 668.

Team series: 2 Stooges & Princess 1936.

Tuesday Night Men Standings: McKenzie Lanes 14, Dream Lawn 14, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 14, Greatland Transportation 12, Steve’s Appliance 12,

R E S U L T S Glass Bar 12, Hack’s Pub 12, The Dugout 6.

Individual games: Michael Hill 289, Bob Rettler 278, Rick Fox 276.

Individual series: Rick Fox 748, Donny Potting Jr. 702, Bob Rettler 692.

Team games: McKenzie Lanes 1109, Steve’s Appl. 1060.

Team series: McKenzie Lanes 3107, Steve’s Appl. 3009.

Wednesday Early Mix Standings: Tri-County Imp. 59, Hendrick’s Motor 53, Lite House 52, Holiday Stationstores 46, Fox Den II 42, Fox Den 41, Larsen Auto Frederic 32, Cutting Edge 27.

Men’s games: Merlin Fox 254, Bob Berg 244, Darrell Hendricks 236.

Men’s series: Merlin Fox 705, Darrell Hendricks 578, Scott Lessman 578.

Women’s games: Patty Walker 185, Shannon Cox 175, Justine Melin 169.

Women’s series: Patty Walker 496, Justine Melin 487, Shannon Cox 470.

Team games: Holiday Stationstores 665, Lite House 651.

Team series: Lite House 1871, Fox Den II 1843.

Wednesday Night Men Standings: Tiger Express 16, Embroidery Plus 16, McKenzie Lanes 14, Harvest Moon 12, Davy’s Construction 12, Dalles Electrician 12, Reed’s Marina 10, Hanjo Farms 4.

Individual games: Brad Hacker 278, Dan Flaherty 267, Daryn Sylvester 245.

Individual series: Brad Hacker 725, Jason Loney 694, Brandon Winge 680.

Team games: Tiger Express 1147.

Team series: Tiger Express 3282.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: K.C. Electrical 67.5, Hauge Dental 65.5, Century 21 62, Balsam Lake Hardware 49, Eagle Valley Bank 48.5, Hack’s Pub 36.5, Deer Lake Block 36.5, RiverBank 34.5.

Individual games: Annette Selby 203, Lois Swenson 202, Norma Hauge 200.

Individual series: Denise Donaghue 542, Annette Selby 536, Lois Swenson 533.

Team games: Hauge Dental 1059.

Team series: Hauge Dental 2952.

Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Fisk Trucking 53.5, The Whippersnappers 46, Happy Campers 46, Eureka Bombers 45.5, Tiger Express 42, Roller Coasters 40.5, The Eagles 38, The In-Laws 28.5.

Men’s games: Tim Katzmark 266, Ervin Lehmann 232, Roger Fisk 223.

Men’s series: Tim Katzmark 607, Roger Fisk 561, Ervin Lehmann 533.

Women’s games: Rachel Carney 204, Patti Katzmark 191, Jean Judd 178.

Women’s series: Rachel Carney 543, Patti Katzmark 513, Diane Fisk 493.

Black & Orange Early Birds (End of second half) Standings: 10th Hole 29-19, Black & Orange 24-24, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2226, Log Cabin Store 21-27.

Individual games: Dot Fouks (B&O) 186, Alice Henrich (B&O) 168, Diane Wilson (GDS) & Lynn Toivola (LCS) 164.

Individual series: Dot Fouks (B&O) 483, Diane Wilson (GDS) 445, Alice Henrich (B&O) 416.

Team games: Black & Orange 858, Gandy Dancer Saloon 852, 10th Hole 825.

Team series: Gandy Dancer Saloon 2412, Black & Orange 2404, 10th Hole

2357.

Monday Night Men Standings: Bruce’s Auto 30-10, Pope’s Construction 27-13, Parker 23-17, Larry’s LP 20-20, Glass & Mirror Works 14-26, Vacant 6-34.

Individual games: Curt Phelps (BA) 225, Dave Greene (P) 208, Arlan Pope (PC) 204.

Individual series: Dave Greene (P) 565, Curt Phelps (BA) 559, Dean Eytcheson (BA) 544.

Team games: Bruce’s Auto 939, Parker 936, Larry’s LP 925.

Team series: Bruce’s Auto 2697, Parker 2692, Pope’s Construction 2690.

TNT Ladies Standings: Flower Power 27-17, Larry’s LP 25-19, Cashco 25-19, Wild Bill’s 1133.

Individual games: Brenda Heinz (WB) 184, Jennifer Kern (L) 183, Cheryl Hansen (WB) 175.

Individual series: Brenda Heinz (WB) 472, Jennifer Kern (L) 461, Cheryl Hansen (WB) 458.

Team games: Cashco 693, Flower Power 690, Wild Bill’s 681.

Team series: Cashco 1998, Wild Bill’s 1957, Flower Power 1949.

Games 50 or more above average: Brenda Heinz 184 (+65).

Series 100 or more above average: Brenda Heinz 472 (+115).

Wednesday Night Men Standings: T&P Tree Service 28-12, Lions 27-13, Cashco 22-18, 10th Hole 21.5-18.5, Northview Drive Inn 19-21, Black & Orange 15.5-24.5, Lynch Mob 15-25, Blasters 12-28.

Individual games: Larry Johnson (L) 211, Roger Tollander (C) 198, Jeremy Littlepipe (LM) & Rick Pardun (T&P) 195.

Individual series: Jeremy Littlepipe (LM) 515, Jason Hansen (C) 511, Rick Pardun (T&P) 506.

Team games: Cashco 970, Lions 961, T&P Tree Service 950.

Team series: T&P Tree Service 2741, Northview Drive Inn 2652, Lions 2637.

Games 50 or more above average: Larry Johnson 211 (+95).

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Riske Dick’s 32-8, Pour House 26-14, Black & Orange 23-17, Hole in the Wall 15-25, Ben Ott Construction 12-28, Check Services 1228.

Individual games: Daphne Churchill (RD) 211, Audrey Pardun (H) 179, Kathy DeMarre (B&O) 169.

Individual series: Daphne Churchill 516, Audrey Pardun 505, Jennifer Kern 465.

Team games: Riske Dick’s 716, Hole in the Wall 685, Black & Orange 680.

Team series: Riske Dick’s 2018, Black & Orange 2002, Hole in the Wall 1953.

Games 50 or more above average: Daphne Churchill 211 (+62).

Early Risers Standings: Hole in the Wall 41, 10th Hole 38, Gandy Dancers 33, A+ Sanitation 28.

Individual games: Sheila Anderson (10th) 209, Phyllis Myers (A+) 180, Lylah Nelson (A+) & Lucy Hansen (Eagles) 168.

Individual series: Phyllis Myers (A+) 490, Sheila Anderson (10th) 489, Lucy Hansen (HITW) 485.

Team games: A+ Sanitation 608, Gandy Dancers 599, 10th Hole & Hole in the Wall 597.

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

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On to Madison Hundreds of fans from throughout Leader Land have shaken off the disappointment of Webster’s sectional final loss to Eau Claire Regis and have hit the road to the Capital City to take in the WIAA boys basketball tourney.

Other semi-local teams Superior, Spooner, Rice Lake, and Clear Lake also fell in play, sectional leaving we rustic yokels from north of Hwy. 64 without a sentimental favorite to cheer for (As for the entire state tournament Division 3 field being private schools, don’t get me started). Nevertheless, the annual state tourney trip is a pilgrimage and a most highly anticipated weekend. On the “anticipation scale,” it ranks right up there with any hunting or fishing opener.

This columnist was baptized into the state tournament in 1974 and can still vividly picture Superior’s Mike Stack hitting a 25-foot shot at the buzzer to send the (then) Class A title game into overtime. The unheralded Spartans became the toast of the state when they went on to defeat top-ranked Milwaukee Lincoln in the extra session. I recollect having a grand total of $65 in Stokely’s summer job savings in my pocket upon leaving for Madison that year. Four of us shared a room for three nights in the now-defunct Randall Towers hotel and our individual share was $16 each. That still left plenty of cash to buy tickets for all the games with enough remaining for a few stops at McDonalds, which at that time was considered a supreme treat for any hayseed. A quick check of the budget indicates $65 won’t quite cover the 2007 trip.

Back then, we were a bit bemused when we noticed there were significant numbers of fans who had tickets, yet opted not to attend the games at the Fieldhouse. Instead, they would remain in bistros or hotel rooms and watch the contests on television.

Strangely, today this weird behavior has morphed into something even more outrageous as hundreds, maybe thousands of fans opt to mostly forego the Kohl Center in favor of watching the NCAA college basketball tournament on TV (this they could do at home, of course). We’ve all heard the famous “rural legend” of the wife who removes her husband’s rifle from its case and replaces it with a two-by-four board the night before he heads to the hunting shack (and he returns from the hunting trip five days later without realizing he never had his rifle).

It’s quite possible you could hear some major stuttering and stammering at the home front if all state tourney

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attendees were quizzed about their Kohl Center seats, the most exciting game they saw (and why) and other details about the high school tourney.

On the surface, it’s a rather amusing phenomenon, but on the other hand it’s disconcerting to the youth and other fans who yearn for one of those choice courtside seats that wind up wasted at the Big 10 Pub, Nitty Gritty, or the State Street Brats Haus.

Area ballplayers on the road Ex-Frederic star Bryan Vilstrup earned a starting pitching assignment for UW-Stout last week in the Metrodome. Stout won that game with Vilstrup hurling four innings, though he did not figure in the decision.

Vilstrup hit .311 for the Devils last year and will also see time in the outfield.

The Stout nine is on a short road trip to Missouri, but will play 12 games in the Metrodome this spring. Meanwhile, Grantsburg legend Bryan Johnson has been in the starting lineup and playing right field for the University of St. Thomas. He and his teammates are on their way to Florida where they’ll play 14 games in a week. Fellow Pirate icon Matt Throngard has made the traveling squad for Minnesota-Morris which is wrapping up their Florida spring trip as this week’s Leader hit newsstands. Throngard’s Cougars will play St. John’s in the Metrodome next Thursday. Webster grad Matt Helland has already seen some mound-time for Illinois Institute of Technology of Chicago and is expected to earn some starts. IIT is playing in California this week. After playing outfield as a freshman, fellow former Websterite Travis Helland, is listed as a pitcher for UWOshkosh which opens their 2007 campaign this weekend in Port Charlotte Florida. Spies say Helland’s fastball has been clocked at 90 miles per hour.

Be sure to follow the progress of these fine young men by checking out their respective schools’ athletic web pages.

This week’s trivia exercise is “Name the Leader Land basketball coach who took a boys team to the State tournament.”

1) 1964 Frederic ___________ 2) 2005 Grantsburg _________ 3) 1973 Luck ___________ 4) 2001 Osceola ___________ 5) 1992 & 1993 St. Croix Falls _________ Bonus query: Which of the coaches is the only one to bring home a gold basketball trophy and in what year?

Correct answers: 1) Tom Funne 2) Danny Judd 3) Andy Dolny 4) John Walsh 5) Ron Greenquist. Bonus query answer: Ron Greenquist, 1992.

John Ryan can jmr202@yahoo.com

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Claws for applause

Claws for applause. The Webster fans give ther team a standing ovation at the end of their sectional final game against Regis. The Tigers took second in ther first-ever sectional appearance. – Photo by Marty Seeger

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Thursday, March 8 Division 3 Sectionals (#2) Webster 40, (#1) Cameron 29 (at Rice Lake) (#1) Eau Claire Regis 58, (#6) Osseo-Fairchild 52 (at Chippewa Falls) Saturday, March 10 Division 3 Sectional Final Regis 56, Webster 43 (at Eau Claire North)

Leader Sports: What other sports section cover seven hometown schools?

Coming up

End of the sesaon for area teams

Webster Tigers players waiting in line to receive their second-place medals after the sectional finals. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Tiger tracks Those Fighting Irish look-a-like Eau Claire Regis Ramblers stifled Webster’s post season run a week before St. Paddy’s day. Yet, the Webster Matt Tigers can hold their heads up high for an Blumkin amazing postseason H E run where their T defense looked like world-beaters. They shut down three high-powered offenses in Luck, Glenwood City and Cameron on their way to the school’s first-ever sectional final appearance. The Tigers could make another run, though they’ll have the big shoes of senior Paul Olesen to fill. They’ll have firepower and defense from Peter Walsh, Brian Gibbs and Brian Thill; their bench players this year could step up big next year.

In speaking of the bench, Webster’s bench has been among the unsung heroes of their tournament journey.

They challenge the starters at practice and support their teammates at every game. Those players included Mitchell Elliot, Nick Wolfe, Quentin Johnson, Kyle Godfrey, Alex Main, Daniel Cramer and Adam Baum.

“Every single one of us, helped us no matter if they played or not,” said Olesen following their regional final win over Glenwood City. “They’ve always helped us in practice, run against us and stuff. They’re the ones that make us better.”

Events in life seem to be somehow connected, even the most random ones. A year ago, Webster’s 53-47 upset over Grantsburg on Jan. 7, 2006, may have seem like a random happening.

END ZONE

Yet, their size, ability to pressure the Pirates and score against them gave a foreshadowing of this tournament run.

Glenwood City dispatched the Pirates in last year’s regional finals because of the Hilltoppers’ height advantage.

With the Tigers’ size up front, the Tigers were able to shut down the Hilltoppers’ big men and capture a regional title. Midseason upsets do happen for a reason. St. Croix Falls could be a team to watch out for in the West Lakeland next year with their upset and near upset of Webster during the season.

Now, that’s sportsmanship: Webster’s A.J. Holmquist told the Leader’s Marty Seeger following the loss to Regis, “they were a good team, I hope they do well at state.”

The Wisconsin Private School State Basketball Tournament?

Yes, sort of. The WIAA Division 3 boys state tournament lineup consists of all Catholic schools: La Crosse Aquinas, Eau Claire Regis, Racine St. Catherine’s, Roncalli. These teams are loaded with talent, recruited talent.

Whether Regis had beat Webster or not, this is an issue the WIAA must deal with. Private schools hold an unfair advantage over public schools their same enrollment size. With large talent-bases to draw from, all private schools should be moved up to Division 1 in all sports at least.

Otherwise, they should form their own league.

Webster hasn’t been the first area postseason victim to a private school during this school year. Regis trounced Unity earlier in the tournament, and Madison Edgewood beat out St. Croix Falls for the state girls’ golf title.

Edgewood can recruit, SCF can compete their hardest. Furthermore, shouldn’t these private schools, regardless of their religious affiliations, be more focused on forming young

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

O UTDOORS INTER- COUNTY LEADER

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

The Way Forward?

Hello friends, Back in early January, I wrote to you about an idea I have to start an organization.

This organization will give kids that would like to go hunting, Mark fishing, camping or Walters trapping, and do not have someone to take them, an outlet to find OUTDOORSMAN’S someone to take them JOURNAL on an outdoor adventure.

That may sound like a mouthful, but in simple terms our hunter numbers are shrinking while the number of kids that have no one to mentor them on these outdoor skills is growing.

A lot of the blame goes on either single-parent families or families where both parents are working. In either case the parents for generally good reasons are not getting their children into the great outdoors.

I plan on fixing that, and here is how that plan has begun to take place.

Friday, Feb. 23 High 25, low 13 Back in January, I put my e-mail address in the column pertaining to this idea and said get a hold of me and I will come to your town and see what we can do.

When you think about actually pulling off starting this organization to a point where eventually it could be anywhere, and kids are successfully and with regularity being taken on outdoor adventures by people they have recently met, it is an enormous task.

Today I met with three people at The Back Door Café in Ladysmith where one of the first chapters will be formed.

Joe Flater, my old buddy from

The River’s Edge Bar and Restaurant was the location for the Lake Delton/Baraboo meeting for a proposed outdoor recreation organization for kids. -Photo submitted Flater’s Resort, Sarah Beebe and her boyfriend Nick Murawski made up our crew. Jeremy Peery, the Rusk County game warden, would have been there but he was coaching at the state wrestling meet.

In a nutshell what we did was have a meet and greet, talk about what we can and cannot do and plan our next meeting, which will be the last week in March.

After countless hours on the phone, attending this meeting and talking to friends, the one major roadblock to forming a group like this is liability. No one wants to get sued trying to help a kid get into the outdoors Monday, Feb. 26 High 25, low 16 A foot of snow hurt our attendance at the Florence Natural Resources and Wild Rivers Interpretive Center at Florence. That did not matter to me, as I would rather start small and get all of our eggs in one basket.

Kelly Crotty is the Florence County

game warden. Crotty along with my pal Jeff Moll and new friends Toni Strutz and Dwaine Drewa and myself, had a meet and greet and some serious conversation with, once again, the liability issue putting a dark cloud over the meeting. When it comes to liability, there are two sides to the coin. One, can you find proper coverage for what we are trying to start and two, how do you pay for it?

All in all our meeting went well.

Other topics discussed were paid or free membership, the adult-to-kid ratio per experience and to keep things small.

At the end of the meeting, Kelly Crotty shook my hand and said that what I hope to pull off is in line with the WDNR’s thoughts are and he was impressed.

Wednesday, March 7 High 21, low 7 The River’s Edge Bar and Restaurant was the perfect setting for the Lake Delton/Baraboo chapter of our

unnamed group. With an aquarium loaded with large freshwater fish, six of us held our first meeting. I want to add that Sauk County game warden John Buss, who could not be in attendance but wishes to be very active in this organization, asked me to use this quote, “This organization could be huge for hunting and fishing. Folks, in reading this column it may seem to you like there is not a whole lot of interest, but actually the core group is growing rapidly and at this time while at home I am spending two to four hours a day on the phone with enormously dedicated individuals, many of whom are seeing this as a life change for themselves as well as the kids they plan on helping.”

Space always dictates how much I can write, but I have some excellent news. I believe today, thanks to my good friend Dan Hendricks founder of UFFDA “United Foundation For Disabled Archers,” I may have found affordable liability insurance through a company that specializes in outdoor organizations. Tonight, when I made this announcement to Jon Hilmer, Bernie Statz, Fly Hutterli, Tim Pape and Doug Jesse, there was an immediate sense of relief. This dream can and will become reality. The liability issue, as Dan Hendricks strongly encouraged me, is not an insurmountable roadblock.

The three areas I mentioned will be having meetings the last week in March. There is much to do and we need far-thinking individuals that can pass a background test to attend and help us out. Please e-mail me at (sunsetoutdoors@tds.net ) When we pull it together in these towns, I have Osceola, Mellen and Portage next on the agenda.

Looking for adults and kids!

Sunset

Brought to you by the following sponsors:

Gov. Knowles State Forest stakeholders to meet at Crex Meadows GRANTSBURG – The Gov. Knowles State Forest annual stakeholders meeting will be held Saturday, March 24, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Crex Meadows Visitor Center.

Agenda topics will center on forest management activities from 2006 through 2007, including recreation, forestry, law enforce-

ment, acquisition, invasives and maintenance and development projects. The public is encouraged to attend and meet the state forest staff.

The visitor center is at the junction of CTH D and F, north of the village of Grantsburg. – from the DNR

Wisconsin Bowhunters Association vote neutral on baiting and feeding of deer STATEWIDE – The nation’s oldest state bowhunting organization, the Wisconsin Bowhunters Association, held its 66thannual convention and meeting in Appleton, March 4.

A motion from a member to support bait-

ing and feeding was defeated, then, by a 109 to 20 vote of membership present, the group took a position of being neutral on baiting and feeding of deer. Their prior position had been to support all legal forms of hunting, including baiting. – submitted

Read Leader Oudoors

On track...

The mild weather is just begging folks to step outside and enjoy the outdoors, but it always seems as though Mother Nature has other plans this time of year. March is by far my most pessimistic month, simply because it always seems to dump some major snowfall at one point or another but we can’t complain too much.

It was nice to see the snowmobilers out enjoying the recent snowfall as well as cross-country skiers and snowshoers during the past week.

It’s a shame that we don’t get to see as much snow as we have in past years. I don’t miss the constant shoveling all season long, but I do miss the beauty that a heavy snowfall can bring.

One thing that we might be able to stay away from for the rest of the winter season is cold temperatures, and I’m not talking about the teens either. The chances of the weather dipping below zero are nearly over, and that is why the recent warm-up is a welcomed guest. -– Marty Seeger

•••

Youngsters interested in hawks and owls might want to spend the day with Chris Cold, DNR wildlife biologist, and Brian Arnold, program director at the Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary March 24 from 8:30 to 4:30. The program is set for youth ages 8-12 and the cost is $30 for the day. Youth will spend the day hiking through Hunt Hill learning about and looking for hawks and owls.

Kids are asked to bring a bag lunch and dress accordingly to enjoy the spring weather. Chris Cold will also bring along owls and hawks to see up close. Call 653-6543 or e-mail program@hunthill.org to register. - Submitted

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It’s official, wolves are in the states’ hands Wisconsin and some surrounding states can now use the tools necessary to deal with problem wolves

by Marty Seeger MADISON — The gray wolf was officially removed from the list of threatened and endangered species on Monday, March 12. The announcement to delist the wolf was first listed in the Federal Register, but it didn’t become effective until after a 30-day review period.

States included are Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan, as well as the northern half of Iowa, eastern North and South Dakota, the northern edge of Illinois and Indiana, and a very small corner in northwestern Ohio.

The unregulated shooting and trapping, encouraged by a legislative state bounty that resulted in the extirpation of the wolf in Wisconsin by 1960.

Wolves began migrating into the state during the mid-70s and have been slowly making a comeback ever since.

It had been a goal of the DNR to reach a target wolf population of 350, and for several years the number of wolves has exceeded this number. It is estimated today that Wisconsin has close to 500 wolves, while Minnesota is estimated to have over 3,000.

“Hopefully it will give us a lot more flexibility in dealing with depredation problems, which we haven’t had good flexibility with in recent years,” said Adrian Wydeven, Wisconsin’s mammalian biologist out of Park Falls.

Wydeven added that there has been a

The delisting of the wolf is a success story that will affect how the DNR manages wolves in all areas of Wisconsin, as well as Michigan and Minnesota. The wolf is still a protected animal, but the delisting will give the DNR the tools it hasn’t always had to manage problem wolves. -Leader file photo definite increase in depredation cases Fornengo and his brother Tim. The pair across Wisconsin over the past few experienced a heavy dose of problem wolves during that year, and they were years.

In the past two years, 25 farms have said to have lost 20 calves and a cow to reported wolf depredation problems on wolves, and estimated 50 to 60 missing livestock, and in 2004 Wydeven said animals.

“It gets better and then it gets worse,” that 21 farms reported problem wolves.

In 2003 there were 14 incidents, and in said Tony Fornegno on their problems 2002 eight farms reported problem with wolves since 2002. Last year Tony said that around nine wolves were wolves.

Wydeven mentioned Burnett and trapped and killed by the USDA, and it Polk counties, with their high intersper- seemed to help, but when permits were sion of forest and farmland, that wolf pulled and the USDA could no longer problems with livestock are inevitable. trap, the problems rose again.

“If they could have kept trapping He said that the more a wolf is exposed to livestock, the more likely that the them they could have kept it under conwolf will start to recognize the animal trol, but as soon as they quit another pack moves in,” Tony said. as a potential food source.

The Fornengos are still upset with One of the largest problem areas in 2002 included the Fornengo farm, a how the DNR has handled problem Danbury ranch operated by Tony wolves over the years, and they only

allow the USDA to trap wolves when they become a problem on their property.

Now that the DNR has taken control of the management of the wolf, it will enable the agency, and in specific circumstances, landowners, to use lethal control in dealing with depredating wolves.

According to Wydeven the DNR has received permits to trap wolves in the past but haven’t been able to hold onto those permits because of lawsuits brought on by groups such as the humane society. Wydeven says that the groups felt it was inappropriate to allow depredation control on animals federally listed.

On Feb. 12, a notice of intent to sue was filed by groups opposing the delisting of the wolf. Wydeven said that it is likely that we could see a lawsuit in federal courts on April 12, but the outcome remains to be seen.

Although the delisting of the wolf is still in its earliest stages, Wydeven said that he already received a call from a warden in northeastern Wisconsin about a problem wolf. The wolf had been spotted in the past two weeks, and appeared to have mange. The warden asked Wydeven if he could euthanize the animal. He was concerned that the wolf might cause a traffic accident, and it appeared that the animal had lost its normal fear of people.

In the past, Wydeven said that if the animal was posing serious risk to human beings it could be taken out, but it would have required extensive documentation and it would have been a lot more difficult. With the power in the hands of the state, Wydeven said that they can take a more hands-on approach to managing the wolf.

“We’re still protective of the wolf, it’s just a little bit more of a flexible system,” said Wydeven.

Defensible space, protecting the home from forest fire SPOONER – Is your home or cabin ready for Wisconsin’s spring forest fire season? State forestry-fire control officials urge all residents who have houses and other structures in forested areas to protect their property by creating a defensible space around it.

“As the spring weather approaches, now is a great time to take action to prepare your property to survive the potential damage caused by seasonal threat of forest fire, especially in the areas of the state impacted by the

drought conditions,” says Department of Natural Resource’s Regional Forester Mike Luedeke. The best action homeowners can take is to create a space around their home or cabin which may allow the property to survive a wildfire without firefighter assistance, he added. This is known in fire-fighting lingo as “defensible space.”

“In a large forest fire, many more structures may be threatened than can be protected by rural fire departments or DNR firefighters. Defensible space

becomes extremely important in protecting that cabin or home,” Luedeke said.

Property owners can create this defensible space by following Firewise Wisconsin principles which make homes less vulnerable to a wildfire.

Firewise recommends that: • The immediate 3 to 5 feet around a building be free of any flammable materials, especially leaves, needles, firewood or other stored items that could catch fire and easily spread to the struc-

Burn leftover firewood to help avoid spreading tree pests and diseases MADISON — Spring is almost here in Wisconsin, and state forestry officials are urging home and cabin owners who have a small amount of wood left from this winter to burn it up by April 1. This is especially important if you don’t know where the wood is from, or it was transported more than 50 miles to your home.

“Firewood can harbor pests and diseases that emerge when the weather warms in April,” says Andrea DissTorrance, forest health specialist at the Department of Natural Resources. “If you have less than a half cord, consider burning it now to avoid introducing pests or diseases to your yard trees.” A half cord of firewood measures 4 feet

high, 4 feet long and 16 inches wide.

A number of invasive pests and diseases are moving on firewood in Great Lakes states.

They lie dormant while temperatures are low, but emerge in spring to attack trees.

Emerald ash borer, oak wilt and gypsy moth, among others, have been transported to new areas on firewood by unsuspecting homeowners, Diss-Torrance says. Oak wilt and gypsy moths are present in parts of Wisconsin, while the emerald ash borer has not yet been found here but has been found in the Chicago area.

“You can avoid introducing new pests to your property by buying your firewood near where you will use it,” she

says.

Homeowners who heat with wood, and thus have more of it stored, won’t have the option of burning up wood before early spring since the heating season doesn’t end until late May in Wisconsin.

“For people with larger amounts of firewood (more than the amounts mentioned above), it is especially important to obtain your wood locally to avoid bringing in insects or diseases,” Diss-Torrance recommends. “Next time you buy or cut, get wood from within 50 miles and you will be doing a lot to protect your trees from foreign pests and diseases.”

For more information contact Andrea Diss-Torrance 608264-9247 -from the DNR

ture.

• All leaves and needles be removed from under the deck and roof.

• In the 30 feet adjacent to the building, keep the grass cut short, wellwatered and free of flammable fuses that will draw fire to a building.

• Landscaping should be open, wellspaced and preferably deciduous. In the 30-100-ft.-radius, keep trees and shrubs spaced at least 10 feet apart and pruned 6 to 10’ feet up the trunk. – from the DNR

Butch’s Northwest Archery Bowhunting League Week 9 Knoop Construction: 579 A&H Taxidermy: 565 Gronning’s Tree Service: 561 Whitetail Lodge: 549 Century 21 Siren: 530 A&H Country Market: 521 White Birch Printing: 516 Bank of the West: 502 Melton Sandblasting: 492 Theoutpostmall.com: 487 Dill Weeds: 475 The Shop: 468 Becky’s: 462 Snags Sports Bar: 456 B&B Disposal: 454 Big Mike’s Sport Shop: 433 Gluek: 426 Bulldog Taxidermy: 420 Women’s Teams Chicog Pub: 489 Wild Bill’s: 405 Bass Lake Inn: 309

Father son-daughter team Glennco Transmission: 553 Boom Truck Service: 502 Dan King Agency: 492 Weis Guys: 415 Juniors Lipsie Pines: 340 Husband & wife teams Bluegill Bar: 532 Sportsman’s Headquarters: 523 Scenic View Campgrounds: 481 Larsen Chev: 487 Audie’s Barn Board Crafts: 428 Parson’s Auto Body: 387 Traditional Teams Peterson Construction: 372 Wishful Thinking: 361 Shell Lake Pharmacy: 356 C&J Sport Shop: 318

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Webster Knights of Columbus award grant WEBSTER - Webster’s Knights of Columbus council 8985 award a Knights of Columbus state grant to Sharrie Roper from Webster. Roper is experiencing continued health problems from a 1995 auto accident. Money for state grants such as this one are raised from annual state raffles. Last year, grants totaling $540,954 were given to qualified recipients. Currently underway is a raffle with prizes totaling $135,000. For information about Knights of Columbus, annual raffles or grants, contact Bob Thomas, Grand Knight, or Jim Henrich, financial secretary. – Photo submitted

Luck senior plans suicide prevention walk

by Mary Stirrat LUCK — A Luck High School senior who has recently suffered the loss of loved ones through suicide is organizing a suicide prevention walk this spring.

Tanya Pardun met with the Luck Village Board Wednesday, March 7, to request permission to use the same route as the American Cancer Society Finish Line Walk. She is working in conjunction with Luck Community Education, and the walk will most likely be held at the end of April.

The board can not vote on the request until next month because the item was not on the meeting agenda, but trustees indicated that Tanya should go ahead with plans for the event.

“Suicide is becoming a leading cause of death for people of all ages,” said Tanya in a letter explaining the walk and seeking contributions.

“I want to help people become more aware of this problem as well as ways they can help prevent suicide.”

Money raised through the walk will be donated to Yellow Ribbon, a non-profit suicide prevention organization that offers support to survivors.

Live at the lot Library director Jill Glover invited the board to the community kick-off event for the new library and museum that will be built in Luck. Everyone with any connection to the community is welcome, she said, whether they live in Luck or not.

“We’d like to invite all the residents, their friends and relatives, and people from outside the village,” Glover told the board.

“This is not a fundraiser,” Glover told the board, “but a way of showing how much we appreciate the businesses and the people in the community.”

The free event will be held St. Patrick’s Day, Saturday, March 17, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., beginning with a group photo at the Main Street lot where the facility will be built. After the photo, activities will move to the DBS Hall for a corned beef sandwich lunch.

A progress report on the project will also be given, followed by a historical program by Leona Cummings.

Everyone is invited to wear literary or historical costumes to the event, said Glover. Prizes will be given in three age groups for children aged two to 18.

Golf Course The board voted to turn some of the accounting responsibilities for the golf course now handled by the village clerk to Cardinal Accounting, and approved a request that Cardinal Accounting be able to access information on bank accounts.

The village clerk’s position is currently funded 15 percent by the golf course. With the reduction in duties, only 6 percent will now be paid by the golf course.

An additional 3 percent each will be paid through the village budget, the water utility, and the sewer util-

ity. This means that 48 percent of the position will now be funded by the village budget, 23 percent by the water utility, 23 percent by the sewer utility, and 6 percent by the golf course.

Sewer lines The board agreed to reline about 2,000 feet of sewer line along North Shore Drive.

The pipe leaks, said trustee Gene Cooper, who was acting as president in the absence of Rich Callister.

The leakage allows lake water to be draw into the system, creating excess load on the lift station at North Lake Street.

Original plans called for 1,000 feet of lining, but the water and sewer account balance of $197,000 allows the extra work that is needed, said Cooper.

The pipes in that area are 50 years old, he said, and have been remodeled once.

Other business • The board accepted the donation of a flag, pole, and solar panel for the cemetery from the Darin Anderson family in honor of veteran Lynwood Anderson. The flag will be placed outside the fence to the left of the cemetery sign, said public works director Roger Giller.

• The board referred to the planning commission a request to spot zone a lot in Butternut Terrace, changing the zoning from residential to multi-family.

Taxpayers gain from unclaimed lottery prizes Family Fun Night to be held March 22 MADISON - One would think lottery players would want to reap cash prizes, but according to a state coordinator for the games, enough fail to claim their winnings, leaving taxpayers the real beneficiary.

In Wisconsin Lottery’s 19-year history, only $1 million prize went unclaimed, but $2 million - $4 million are left in combined unclaimed prizes every year in the state.

According to Andrew Bohag, operations director for the Wisconsin Lottery, if no one claims the cash prize within 180 days of the drawing, the money is lumped in with the lottery’s annual revenue. Some of that amount goes toward other payouts, while the other part is split between administrative costs and retailer’s commissions. Any money left over – usually about 25 to 30 percent of the lottery’s gross sales – goes

to property tax relief.

Bohag says the amount of unclaimed prize money depends on the size of annual Powerball sales.

Wisconsin currently has two unclaimed $10,000 Powerball tickets from September that are near expiration. He says people often overlook the smaller winnings. He says whenever there are very large Powerball jackpots, there are a lot of players from Wisconsin and from Illinois who get into the game and don’t necessarily understand that there are other prizes.

The Wisconsin Lottery brought in a near record $506 million in sales last year. About $140 million of that went to taxpayers. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Katie Fischer)

Judges advised to follow guidelines

Siren Parent/Community Family Fun Night, Thursday, March 22, will present Kevin McMullin.

Kevin is an outstanding songwriter and storyteller.

Come enjoy an evening of fun in the Discovery Room in the Elementary School. Time: 6 to 7 p.m.

This performance is funded by a grant from the Burnett County Safe and Stable Families. Any Questions; Please call Jan Hoehne or Becky Plesums at 349-2278. – Special photo

MADISON - The state Supreme Court is being asked to require judges to pay more attention to the sentencing guidelines created under Wisconsin’s “truth-in-sentencing” law.

In a case argued before the high court Wednesday, March 7, the attorney for convicted armed robber, Vincent Grady, told the justices too many judges are ignoring a state statute that requires them to consider a grid of possible sentences when they decide how long to send someone to prison for.

Attorney Donna Hintze says Grady deserves a new sentencing hearing because the judge in his case sentenced him to 20 years in prison without ever mentioning the guidelines. She called on the court to direct the trial courts to consider the guidelines and to make a record that they have reached that point in the guidelines which provides them with a sentencing

range for their consideration in deciding what sentence to impose in an individual case. Judges are not required to stick the guidelines, but Hintze says if they don’t, the law says they have to explain why at the time of sentencing.

Meanwhile, a longtime advocate for sentencing reform, UW Law School Dean Walter Dickey, says it time to get rid of sentencing grids altogether. He says the sooner we get past grids as a major component of sentence, as he thinks is happening in the federal system, the fairer and wiser we’re going to be sentencing people and using public resources.

Dickey says the best way to get fairer sentences is to give judges more feedback on how their sentences have affected both public safety and the lives of the people they’ve sent to prison. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halsted)

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

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Burnett County sheriff’s report Accidents Village of Siren, March 6: Marilyn E. Heinzel, 70, North Branch, Minn., reported that she was involved in a snowmobile accident somewhere on the trail between Siren and Grantsburg. She was taken to Burnett Medical Center for difficulty breathing and upper chest pains.

Town of Union, March 7: William Holmes, 43, Danbury, hit a vehicle that was parked on the shoulder with a flat tire. He was cited for unsafe lane deviation and operating without a valid license.

Carolyn Bork, 36, Hinckley, Minn., was in the parked car when it was hit. She reported that her back hurt.

Village of Siren, Mar.ch 8: Richard C. Bailey, 69, Siren, was backing out of a parking space on Main Street when he backed into Sandra E. Surrell, 60, Minneapolis, Minn.

There were no reported injuries.

Town of Swiss, March 1: Michael E. Frazee, 46, Danbury, was westbound on Broeffle Road when he lost control, spun 180 degrees, went off the road and overturned. He was cited for driving without a valid license.

Warrant arrests/other arrests Town of Wood River, March11: Rodney D. Staples, 40, Siren, was arrested for domestic battery, criminal damage to property, obstruction and probation violation. There were four children in the house at the time of the incident. Don Neft, 50, Cambridge, Minn., was also arrested for failure to pay.

Town of Meenon, March 10: Calvin L. Garbow, 32, Sandstone, Minn., was arrested for disorderly conduct after he was discovered walking along a highway intoxicated and started acting disorderly.

Burnett County warrants Ursula L. LaFave, 40, Hinckley, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, Mar. 9.

Matthew L. Coon, 21, Siren, warrant – failure to appear, March 8.

Thomas L. Hart, 28, Minneapolis, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, March. 5.

Desmond D. Mosay, 41, Luck, warrant – failure to appear, March 7.

Kelvin J. Buskirk, 31, Webster, arrest warrant – complaint, March 8.

Robert J. Sumrall, 39, Sarona, arrest warrant – complaint, March 9.

Christopher H. Radtke, 43, Spooner, arrest warrant – complaint, March 9

Cell phone ban in hospitals is only common courtesy ROCHESTER, Minn. - Some hospitals restrict cell phones over concern they will interfere with medical equipment. Research at Mayo Clinic shows they don’t.

Protecting hospital equipment by preventing use of cell phones once was a fairly common practice. Dr. David Hayes of the Mayo Clinic says the concern was interference, especially with electrocardiograms, or ECGs. He says the question was could the cell phone introduce interference with the ECG monitoring system so that one didn’t really know what the patients heart rhythm was doing.

Hayes wasn’t convinced cell phones could be a culprit in medical malfunction, so he and other researchers set out to test this long-held notion to see if

it was backed up by science. Researchers tested two cell phone technologies while operating nearly 200 medical devices. The study found no negative impact on equipment.

The study has prompted the Mayo Clinic to review its cell phone ban. Hayes says even if there’s no concern about medical malfunction, common courtesy and the patients’ need for peace and quiet is a consideration. That’s why UW Hospital and Clinics restricts cell phone use in certain areas. At Aurora hospitals in the Milwaukee metro area, a spokeswoman says they forbid cell phones in places like the intensive care unit, out of concern for both patient and equipment. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shamane Mills)

Town of Oakland, March 7: Luann F. Merrill, 30, Luck, was arrested on a Polk County warrant during a routine traffic stop.

Town of Sand Lake, March 10: Bennie D. St John, 48, Hinckley, was arrested on a warrant arrest during a routine traffic stop.

Town of Dairyland, Douglas County: David B. Hill, 52, Webster, was arrested on a warrant.

Other incidents Town of Union, March 10: Lee R. Stenzel, 54, Wilson, Wis., reported some power tools taken from his garage. The incident is under investigation.

Burnett Co. civil court Adam C. Benson vs. Brian Alden, Webster, $1,781.98.

Crown Asset Mgt. Lic. assignee of HSB Bank of Nevada vs. Diane l. Hand, Spooner, $1,746.82.

Burnett County deaths Harris Hills, 83, Swiss, Feb. 22.

Charles W. Smith, 69, Meenon, Feb. 22.

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MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 33

Burnett County circuit court Brian A. Amundson, Hermantown, Minn., speeding, $160.00.

Jolene H. Anderson, Siren, speeding, not guilty plea.

Timothy J. Anderson, Hudson, speeding, $186.00.

Lori A. Aronson, Grantsburg, drink open intoxicants in motor vehicle, passenger, $186.00.

Van C. Avery, Barronett, speeding, $160.80.

Thaddeus J. Baasch, Shell Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

Antoinette J. Bearhart, Webster, underage drinking, possess, $249.00 and order for assessment; standing on roadway, $135.60.

Wesley J. Bearheart, Spooner, operating while under influence, operate w/o valid license, keep open intoxicants in motor vehicle, driver, not guilty pleas.

Jennifer M. Beaver, Osceola, speeding, $186.00.

Sherry Benjamin, Webster, speeding, $211.20.

James Y. Berglind, Siren, speeding, $186.00.

Michael M. Bettin, Fairmont, Minn., operate ATV without NR trail pass, $154.50.

Angela R. Bram, St. Croix Falls, speeding, $186.00.

Janet M. Braun, S. St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Steven D. Brenizer, Grantsburg, construct building without permit, $248.00.

Scott A. Brooks, St. Michael, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Sharon K. Brown, Lake Worth, Fla., speeding, $160.80.

Thomas R. Brown, Shell Lake, trespass to land, $249.00.

Daniel W. Bugg, Luck, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .02 or more, OAR – due to OWI/PAC, operating left of centerline, not guilty pleas.

Christina S. Casey, La Farge, speeding, $186.00.

Randall N. Ceaglske, Barronett, speeding, $160.80.

Mark A. Charpentier, Elk River, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Jay W. Chirhart, Arden Hills, Minn., fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Kevin A. Chirhart, Racine, Minn., fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Odie L. Coffey Jr., Richmond, Va., speeding, $160.80.

Owen K. Coit, Fairbault, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Brittany A. Craft, Woodbury, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Shawna L. Crawford, Poplar, speeding, not guilty plea.

Scott J. Dahl, Bloomington, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Darlene M. Daugaard, Solon Springs, speeding, $161.00.

Joshua A. Day, Spooner, underage drinking, possess, not guilty plea.

Tiphany A. Day, Spooner, underage drinking, possess, not guilty plea.

Timothy J. Dornfeld, Dallas, Texas, speeding, not guilty plea.

Charlow F. Downs, Champlin, Minn., speeding, $185.50.

Christopher M. Edwards, Moundsview, Minn., speeding, $160.80, operating while suspended, $186.00, violation of child safety restraint, child under 4, $160.80.

Justin A. Elkins, Shell Lake, fail to properly maintain exhaust system, not guilty plea.

Clinton G. Erickson, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Teresa M. Erickson, Grantsburg, possess/loan/borrow another’s license, $288.80.

William L. Erickson, Grantsburg, allow dog to run at large, $154.50; fail to attach rabies tag, $186.00.

Donavon L. Ferguson, Springbrook, speeding, not guilty plea.

Kraig R. Fiedler, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Joel B. Finch, Grantsburg, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .08 or more, not guilty pleas.

Charles J. Fish, Roseville, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Dwight L. Frahm, Mora, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Larry R. Fuglestad, Moose Lake, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Colin J. Gantz, Mora, Minn., speeding, $211.20, operating while suspended, $186.00.

M. Goepfert, William Grantsburg, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Linda M. Gohman, Pine City, Minn., seat belt violation, $10.00.

Joanne B. Grefsrud, Webster, speeding, $160.80.

Vincent T. Groff, Dunwoody, Ga., speeding, $211.00.

Timothy R. Groth, Hinckley, Minn., seat belt violation, $10.00, fail to maintain vehicle speedometer, $160.80.

Rachel L. Haaf, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Linda D. Hahn, Plymouth, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Barbara J. Haislet, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Doyle E. Haley, Minong, speeding, $160.80.

Nicholas D. Hanson, Maple Grove, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Kevin J. Harmon, River Falls, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Rosemary E. Hayes, Spooner, speeding, $186.00.

Franklin W. Hein, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Laura B. Henriksen, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Donna F. Herndon-Steffen, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Heidi L. Hoeft, Princeton, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

A. Holmquist, Carson Grantsburg, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Reid J. Hopkins, Danbury, seat belt violation, $10.00.

David M. Hughes, Danbury, speeding, not guilty plea.

Ted A. Hunter, Siren, operate

Crystal S. Stoner, 33, Webster, disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Michelle A. McPhillips, 45, Danbury, disorderly conduct, $249.00.

Shawn E. Hutton, 28, Webster, obstructing an officer, $249.00.

Jason E. Olson, 26, Webster, battery, $249.00.

Colleen R. Smith, 26, Webster, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Rebecca A. Hahn, 22, Hayward, issue worthless check, $354.01.

Gary L. Coy, 39, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $225.00.

Theodore M. Draeger, Centuria, issue worthless check,

$249.00.

Sean P. Colling, 34, Minneapolis, Minn., issue worthless check, $249.00.

Milo C. Merrill, 22, Luck, issue worthless check, $263.00.

Gregory G. McGuiggan, 46, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $249.00.

John L. Nelson, 38, Rush City, Minn., issue worthless check, $243.00.

Lenay E. Phillipps, 46, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Kobi C. Phillips, 46, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Johnny L. Massey, 20, Grantsburg, issue worthless check, $249.00.

vehicle w/o stopping lights, seat belt violation, operate w/o valid license, not guilty pleas.

Troy J. Jansen, Markville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Harold M. Johnson, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Steven L. Johnson, Siren, speeding, $186.00.

Lance B. Kegg, Onamia, operate w/o valid license, $186.00.

Margaret Ann Kelaart, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Christopher Kelly, Minneapolis, Minn., fish 3 hooks/lines/baits (3-4) over, $168.20.

Bonita M. Kettula, Frederic, speeding, $160.80.

Robert J. Killian, Lakeville, Minn., construct/structure/ warf/navig. waters, not guilty plea.

Patrick J. Kinsella, Blaine, Minn., place/construct structure w/in 75 ft. of watermark, grade in excess of 2,000 feet w/out permit, not guilty pleas.

Steven R. Klein, Oakdale, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Kent E. Knutson, Clayton, underage drinking, possess, $375.00, 6-month license suspension, order for assessment and 20 hours of community service, work.

Gary L. Koecher, St. Croix Falls, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Melania Krasny, Blaine, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Andrew R. Kurkowski, Frederic, violate CDL restrictions, passenger, $186.00.

Susan M. Lane, Frederic, operating while revoked, not guilty plea.

Taylor K. La Pointe, Webster, license restriction violation, $186.00.

Ryan C. Larson, Siren, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Andrew R. Lawson, Menomonie, speeding, not guilty plea.

Deborah A. Leal, Luck, speeding, $186.00.

Reed M. Lechnier, Spooner, underage drinking, possess, not guilty plea.

Marilyn J. Lehman, Dairyland, speeding, $186.00.

Dustan W. Lick, Eagan, Minn., fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

James M. Lietz, Wonewoc, speeding, $160.80.

Michael L. Liljenberg, Webster, OAR, not guilty plea.

Harley D. Lindus, Grantsburg, speeding, $186.00.

Michael F. Livingston, Siren, speeding, nonregistration, operating while suspended, not guilty pleas.

Cory S. Loger, Andover, Minn., speeding, $186.00; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Brian A. Lorence, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Heather R. Lunceford, Siren, speeding, $160.80.

Gregory T. Manning, Lino Lakes, Minn., speeding, $168.00.

Russell A. Manning, Clayton, operate without valid license, not guilty plea.

Audrey A. Marigold, Hayward, speeding, $160.80.

Joshua Markkula, Hertel, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Nicholas D. McCann, Anoka, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Douglas R. Mckibben, Lakeville, Minn., operate recreation vehicle in unauthorized area, $160.80.

Terry L. McNitt, Spooner, speeding, $186.00.

Nathaniel D. Melin, Grantsburg, fail to stop at stop sign, $161.00.

Estella L. Melton, Fridley, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Kathryn E. Miesen Griep, Edina, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Benjamin W. Miller, Ridgeland, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Joseph F. Miller, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Troy R. Monson, Clear Lake, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Paul D. Moody, Webster, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Britney Jo Mosey, Prior Lake, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Michael B. Murphy, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Shirley M. Museus, Danbury, inattentive driving, $173.40.

Stephen S. Myey, Highland Rch, Colo., speeding, not guilty plea.

Nelson, Bruce W. Grantsburg, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .10 or more, keep open intoxicants in motor vehicle, improper parking on roadway, not guilty pleas.

Crystal M. Nelson, Elk River, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Eric R. Nelson, Grantsburg, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .10 or more, failure to notify police of accident, not guilty pleas.

David J. Niedenfuer, Siren, nonregistration of auto., $160.80.

Erin E. O’Brien, Siren, license violations, $186.00.

Joseph J. Ogren, Bloomington, Minn., unsafe backing of vehicle, $160.80.

Peter M. Ohara, Burnsville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Louis R. Oiyotte, Webster, possess drug paraphernalia, not guilty plea.

Eugene E. Olson, Andover, Minn., speeding, $160.00.

William J. Olson, Grand Marais, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Taylor J. Overby, Frederic, underage drinking, possess, $249.00 and order for assessment.

Lyle R. Pardun, Danbury, speeding, $186.00.

Roger R. Parrish, Osceola, operating while under influence, $665.50, 6-month license revocation and order for assessment.

Brian J. Petersen, Cambridge, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Michelle R. Piper, Siren, county/municipality disorderly conduct, $150.00.

Butch Pittman, Centerville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Jordan E. Potvin, Siren, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Vernon E. Poulter, Lindstrom, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

John W. Powell, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Scott R. Powell, Webster, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Drew L. Preston, Danbury, speeding, $160.80; operate without valid license, $186.00.

Ryan G. Priddy, Ramsey, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Dean M. Prochnow, Medford, speeding, not guilty plea.

Donald R. Quigley, Webster, speeding, not guilty plea.

Zachary R. Quigley, Webster, speeding, driving too fast for conditions, not guilty plea.

Kevin J. Raska, Osceola, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Robert J. Rieckenberg, Richfield, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Nathan T. Rogney, Osceola, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Jessica L. Royce, Danbury, speeding, not guilty plea.

Michelle Marie Ruckmar, Woodbury, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Jean M. Russell, Burnsville, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Scott A. Sagle, Grantsburg, speeding, $280.50.

Ricky J. Salmore, Somerset, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Richard W. Sandgren, Luck, failure to notify police of accident, fail to yield when emerging from alley, not guilty pleas.

Sharon C. Saxon, Anoka, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Gregory A. Schiefelbein, Grantsburg, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .08 or more, not guilty plea.

Edward J. Schlegel, Maple Grove, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Select Industry, Inc., Stone Lake, Wash., violate Class A Hwy. weight limits, $468.61.

Preston S. Sierra, Andover, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Jovanny A. Signoret, River Falls, speeding, $160.80.

James A. Simon, Pine City, Minn., seat belt violation, $10.00.

Andrea J. Smith, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Bruce A. Smith, Grantsburg, speeding, $186.00.

Pamela K. Smith, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Jennifer L. Snelson, Andover, Minn., speeding, 15day license suspension, $236.40 Kiowa S. Staples, Sandstone, Minn., operate with-

out valid license, $186.00.

Mark R. Steffen, Osceola, fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Zachary R. Stensland, Stillwater, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Paul S. Stimets, Mazeppa, Minn., ATV – fail to display registration decals, not guilty plea.

Merlin J. Stokes, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Erik M. Sullivan, Grantsburg, inattentive driving, $173.40.

Andrew A. Sveback, Amery, speeding, $160.80.

James D. Swanson, Siren, unreasonable and imprudent speed, not guilty plea.

Carmen L. Taylor, Webster, operating while revoked, not guilty plea.

Christopher J. Thomas, Frederic, speeding, $160.85.

Lindsay M. Thompson, Eau Claire, underage drinking, possess, $249.00, and order for assessment.

Cynthia L. Throngard, Grantsburg, inattentive driving, $173.40.

M. Throngard, Leif Grantsburg, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Craig J. Tice, Spooner, speeding, $186.00.

Mark G. Underdahl, Stacy, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

John F. Vix, Webster, speeding, $160.80.

Yuri A. Walczak, Shell Lake, underage drinking, possess, not guilty plea.

G. Walpole, William Grantsburg, speeding, $211.20.

Jason K. Warnke, Farmington, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Shari L. Webber, Stanchfield, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Peter A. Weinberg, Eagan, Minn., fish with unattended lines, $168.20.

Thomas G. White, Chicago, Ill., speeding, $160.80.

Kyle J. Wickboldt, Clear Lake, underage drinking, possess, not guilty plea.

Jonathan J. Wiesner, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Joan L. Wilhelm, Webster, speeding, operating without valid license, not guilty pleas.

James K. Wille, Corcoran, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Martin M. Williams, Danbury, underage drinking, $249.00 and order for assessment.

Michael L. Williams, Danbury, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Daniel E. Wink, Maple Grove, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Nora M. Wise, Bloomington, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Scott S. Wondra, Siren, speeding, $160.80.

Tracy A. Zahler, Albertville, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Gary J. Ziegelbauer, Green Bay, speeding, not guilty plea.

license revoked 24 months.

Sharon A. McMurray, 59, Webster, fail to slow for flashing yellow signal, $160.80.

Sarah K. Radke, 16, Siren, fail to stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Brian A. Majorowicz, 19, Frederic, trespass-remain after notice, $113.00.

Randi L. Buchholz, 19, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Adam W. Polski, 23, Burnsville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Travis Dye, 42, Eden Prairie, Minn., speeding, $236.40.

Britney J. Wessels, 20,

Grantsburg, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Phillip W. Bowe, 25, Grantsburg, hit and run property adjacent to highway, $113.00.

Brandon W. Thompson, 19, Webster, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, $498.00.

David O. Wagner, 50, Spooner, inattentive driving, $501.00.

Pauline S. Boyle, 53, Barrington, Ill., OWI, $793.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked 6 months.

Burnett County criminal court Scott E. Smith, Webster, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Aaron Jetto, Shell Lake, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Jeremy Lavalle, Stacy, Minn., issue worthless check, $243.00.

Shaun J. Belisle, 20, Hinckley, Minn., resisting or obstructing an officer, 60 days’ jail time, $88.00.

Shaun J. Belisle, 20, Hinckley, Minn., resisting or obstructing an officer, bail-jumping, sentence stayed, 2 years’ probation, conditions of probation-alcohol assessment, $176.00.

Kevin B. Rand, 47, Webster, operate without valid license, $350.00.

Terrence Benjamin, 37, Webster, disorderly conduct, 45 days’ jail time, $77.00.

Jeffrey R. Butler, 28, Plymouth, Wis., order for reconfinement after revocation of extended supervision, 27 days in prison.

Vadim A.Y.Chapchay, 38, Minneapolis, Minn., injury by negligence, sentence withheld, 3 years probation, conditions of probation-60 days’ jail time, $347.00.

Larry J. Martin, 46, Siren, OWI, $957.00, alcohol assessment, 10 days’ jail time, license revoked 14 months.

James A. Brown, 42, Shell Lake, OWI, $1209.00, alcohol assessment, 60 days’ jail time,

Polk County divorces

Burnett Co. marriage licenses

Susan Paulick, Osceola, Randy Paulick, St. Croix Falls. Married 1990. No children.

Christopher Weiss, Clear Lake, Melissa Pohl, Red Wing, Minn.

Married 1997. Four children.

Jennifer and Michael Steglich, Turtle Lake. Married 1990. Three children.

Jeremiah P. Mosher, Oakland, and Elizabeth R. Quenzer, Meenon, Mar. 7.

Nathan C. Hammond, Swiss, and Laura S. Proffit, Swiss, Mar. 8.

Roger R. Van Doorne, Dewey, and Lori F. Johnson, Dewey, Mar. 9.

Siren police report Village of Siren, March 5: Theresa M. Patterson, 43, Siren, was arrested for criminal damage to property and domestic battery.

Village of Siren, March 7: Nicholas G. Zentic, 22, Webster, was cited for inattentive driving.

Village of Siren, March 8: a burglary was reported at the Pro Shop at the Siren area arena.

The incident is under investigation.

Village of Siren, March 11: Travis D. Karrow, Webster, was cited for seat belt violation.

PAGE 34 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents March 1, 12:30 p.m., Black Brook Twp., Hwy. 46, 200’ W. of Airport Rd., #1 – Amanda M. Jensen, 19, Deer Park; #2 – legally, parked vehicle owned by the city of Amery. Unit 2 was a police vehicle parked with emergency lights on, on Hwy. 46, in the southbound lane at a twovehicle crash scene. Unit 1 was southbound on Hwy. 46. When

driver of unit 1 got to the crash scene, she found she had to turn around, as she could not continue south. Unit 1 backed up to turn around and struck unit 2 in the rear driver’s side, causing minor to moderate damage.

Drive of unit 1 then left the scene, failing to stop and report the crash. Unit 1 also cited for no valid driver’s license.

March 5, 7:46 a.m., St. Croix

Falls Twp., Fairgrounds Road at 140th Ave., #1– Michael T. Mysicka, 31, St. Croix Falls; #2– Jordyn L. Vanderwerf, 17, St. Croix Falls; noncontact unit was westbound on Fairgrounds Road, and was slowing to turn left onto 140th Ave. Operator saw unit 2 in rearview mirror skidding and sliding and saw unit 1 crash into unit 2. Operator of unit 2 said she lost control on the ice, slid sideways and unit 1 hit her. Operator of unit 1 said he slid on ice and crashed into unit 2. Operator of noncontact unit did write a statement as a witness (Patricia C. Price, 43, St. Croix Falls).

March 6, 3:18 p.m., St. Croix Falls Twp., 160th Ave., .1 mi. E. of Hwy. 87, Daniel J. Hill, 45, St. Croix Falls, was westbound on 160th Ave., approaching Hwy. 87. Unit 1 lost control while traveling down a hill, due to snow and ice on road. Driver of unit 1 attempted to avoid a sec-

ond car in the north ditch. Driver recorrected wheel and struck a row of trees in the north ditch that were next to the other vehicle. Vehicle came to rest at that position.

March 6, 4:31 p.m., Eureka Twp., Hwy. 87, .5 mi., N. of CTH I, #1– Gary A. Severson, 56, Cushing, #2– Eric D. Chinander, 36, Osceola; Unit 1 was northbound on Hwy. 87.

Unit 2 was southbound after cresting hill. Unit 1 hit a patch of snow near the centerline. Unit 1

was pulled into the southbound lane. Driver of unit 1 attempted to turn vehicle towards the east shoulder before unit 1 began turning. Unit 1 struck unit 2 in a head-on manner. Unit 2 came to rest in the west ditch. Unit 1 came to rest near the east shoulder of road. Unit 1 driver sustained a minor injury (wearing seat belt/transported by EMS).

March 8, 3:45 p.m., Osceola Twp., CTH Y&/75th Ave., .5 mi.

S. of 80th Ave., #1– Mitchell L.

Johnson, 22, Dresser; #2– Mark J. Nussbaum, 43, St. Croix Falls. Unit 2 was going to turn into fire #1955. Driver of unit 2 said that he saw unit 1 coming at him fast. Subject driver of unit 2 said that he started to pull forward fast to try to avoid the collision. Driver of unit 1 said he did not see the vehicle 2 turning or slowing. Driver of unit 1 stated he had identified a witness who apparently saw unit 2 backing up.

Polk County criminal court Kelli Nelson-Bruggeman, 33, Cumberland, nine counts of felony forgery. Signature bond set of $10,000. Preliminary hearing scheduled for May 1.

Raymond Arellano, 58, battery by prisoners, resisting/obstructing officer.

Adjourned initial hearing set for April 2.

Steven Sellman, 45, Wyoming, Minn., violate restraining order. Adjourned initial hearing set for April 9.

David Strenke, 18, Luck, pled guilty to possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia and was sen-

tenced to a fine of $248.

Operating privileges were suspended for six months.

Paul Villella, 41, Frederic, disorderly conduct. Judge disqualified himself from case. New judge needs to be assigned.

Brock Daehler, 19, Belvidere, Ill., operating a vehicle without consent - passenger.

Bond set of $10,000. Review set for April 27.

Matthew Coon, 20, resisting officer. Signature bond set of $1,000. Review set for April 24.

Bobbi Gilpin, 25, Frederic, pled not guilty to resisiting/obstructing an officer.

Polk County civil court GMAC, Denver, Colo., plaintiff. John R. Anderson, Luck, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default of contract payments for 2002 Chevy Cavalier and seeks $6,533.59.

GMAC, Denver, Colo., plaintiff. Thomas Engstrom, St. Croix Falls, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default on contract and seeks payments of $14,134.05 for a 2004 Chevy Silverado.

Citibank, N.A., Kansas City, Mo., plaintiff. Stephanie Martin, Luck, defendant. Plaintiff seeks credit card payments due of $8,038.38.

Citibank, N.A., Sioux Falls, S.D., plaintiff. David Altringer, Dresser, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default on credit card payments and seeks $35,243.64.

Credit Equity Fund, Menasha, plaintiff.

Cathy Gustafson, Amery, defendant.

Plaintiff alleges default on credit card account and seeks payments of $16,430.54.

GMAC, Denver, Colo., plaintiff. Dennis Milander, Balsam Lake, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default on contract and seeks payments of $5,117.12 for a 2005 Chevy Silverado.

CitiMortgage, Inc., O’Fallon, Mo., plaintiff. Todd and Tami Cone, Amery, defendants.

Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $91,296.30.

Scott Hackel, Amery, plaintiff.

Steven Howell, Amery, defendant. Plaintiff seeks damages for pain and suffering and medical expenses allegedly caused by attack of Great Dane dog owned by defendant.

Ferguson Enterprises, Inc., Plymouth, Minn., plaintiff.

Flaherty Plumbing Services, Inc., and Michael Flaherty, Balsam Lake, defendants.

Plaintiff alleges default of payments on charge account and seeks payments of $34,309.69.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Fort Mill, S.C., plaintiff. Danna Dahl and Jennifer Catlin, Osceola.

Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $118,848.42.

Citi Financial, Inc., Coppell, Texas, plaintiff. Wanda Soltau, Brian Soltau, Luck, and unknown spouses of both, defendants. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $66,268.94.

Deutsche Bank National Trust Co., Orange, Calif., plaintiff. Lillian and Michael Wilson, Luck, defendants. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $109,361.45.

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

Review set for April 27.

Walter Tudahl, 44, Osceola, pled not guilty to disorderly conduct. Review set for May 18.

Linda J. Brown, 59, Shafer, Minn., pled not guilty to OWI. Review set for May 4.

Timothy Jones, 34, Osceola, pled not guilty to OWI, operating with a prohibited alcohol contact of .08 or more. Review set for April 24.

Mitchell Babcock, 42, Somerset, OWI, operating with a prohibited alcohol contact of .08 or more. Bench warrant issued.

Notices

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 35

Notices/ Employment

PAGE 36 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Employment

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 37

Notices Follow the Leader

PAGE 38 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Notices

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 39

Highway department proposes five-year plan Would improve most roads by 2012; Plan depends on additional funding

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Polk County’s 330 miles of county highways could be in good condition by the end of 2012 if the county approves and funds the proposed five-year road plan presented to the highway committee Wednesday, March 7. Under the plan, 60 percent of the county roads would be in very good or better condition at the end of the period, compared to 36 percent at present. Highway Commissioner Steve Warndahl and his staff prepared the plan.

The proposal, which identifies each road section to be improved, would require a budget increase of $500,000 in 2008 and $250,000 increases in the following years. Warndahl said that fund-

ing for the county highway department has increased only 2 percent since 2000, resulting in a highway system that is declining in quality.

Warndahl said that traffic count and cost projections were used in choosing which roads would be improved. He said that the department looked at traffic use now and projecting into the future. Many of the improvements will be in the southwestern corner of the county, the area with the greatest population growth. Traffic in this area may also increase once the new St. Croix River crossing is completed. However, main roads throughout the county are included in the plan.

County highways are rated by road segment, using a scale from 1 to 100. At present, 35 miles of county highways are rated excellent (90 or above). By 2012, 85 miles would have an excellent rating. Warndahl said that the plans calls for ongoing maintenance as well as rebuilding to keep the roads at the same

rating level once major work is done.

The department is proposing a $2.06 million construction budget for 2006.

That would pay for 34 miles of repairs, much of which is preservation work.

Under the proposed plan, the 2008 construction budget would be $2.5 million and major construction would start. By 2012 the highway construction budget would be $3 million.

Warndahl offered several cautions to the plan. He said the costs were in constant dollars with no inflation factored in. He added that a sudden change in any road could throw the plan off.

The plan would concentrate on repairs to the most-used roads in the system. While most roads would improve over the five-year period, the miles of road rated very poor would increase from seven miles to 31 miles.

The roads in this category are ones with low traffic count and stretches where alternate routes are available.

Committee reaction Carl Holmgren said it was time to start a wheel tax, a county tax on vehicles registered in the county. Art Gamache said he agreed, adding “If you drive it, you should pay for it.”

Marvin Casperson said that safety is a major reason for keeping the roads in good shape. He said that is highlighted each time there is an accident.

“We are a growing county,” Gamache said. “Our roads won’t get better until we adopt a dynamic plan. The public expressed an interest in transportation at the listening sessions on the county’s future.”

The highway department will highlight the plan details at an open house next Tuesday afternoon at the highway shop. The committee will also make a presentation to the county board next Tuesday evening. The increased fund for the plan would start with the 2008 budget process this summer.

Maps showing the road ratings in Polk County.

Warmer temperatures this past week created some spring flooding on village streets like the scene above in Luck. The thermometer at the Rural American Bank in Luck topped 60 degrees on Tuesday. - Photos by Mary Stirrat

PAGE 40 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 14, 2007

Snap Fitness opens in Milltown

by Mary Stirrat MILLTOWN — Fast. Affordable.

Convenient. That’s what the advertising brochure for Snap Fitness states, and that’s what Debbie Lewis, owner of the new Snap Fitness in Milltown, says is true about the program.

Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the fitness club is located in the former Video Vault on Hwy. 35.

Joining Snap Fitness is a snap, said Lewis. Come in during staffed hours, which are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday

through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, to sign a membership agreement and get an orientation on the equipment if you want.

You then get a key card that allows you access to the facility at any hour of the day or night. That’s all there is to it.

Snap Fitness requires no contracts, said Lewis. Memberships are paid on a monthly basis, with a discount for firefighters, EMTs and law enforcement officers.

Members include big, burly men

Debbie Lewis, owner of Snap Fitness in Milltown, at right, with operations manager Judy Bainbridge. Lewis is looking for a personal trainer to join the staff. - Photos by Mary Stirrat building up their muscles, senior women working to keep their hearts strong and everything in between.

The recommended routine consists of 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise, followed by about 15 minutes on machines that work on specific muscles.

Doing this three times a week will give the entire body a good workout.

The Snap Fitness Web site at www.snapfitness.com has a virtual trainer, which includes videos on how the various pieces of equipment work.

Milltown Snap Fitness owner Debbie Lewis demonstrates an arc trainer, one Lewis also said that she is looking for a of several cardiovascular machines at the new facility. Snap Fitness is open personal trainer to assist at the Milltown facility.

24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It was Lewis’ own personal trainer

who eventually led her to Snap Fitness.

Lewis had been working out for a number of years when she followed her personal trainer from a health club in Forest Lake to a Snap Fitness and found out how much she enjoyed that kind of facility.

“It was awesome,” she said. Lewis, who owned Video Vault in Milltown, decided to combine the Milltown store with the Frederic Video Vault, making an opening for the fitness center.

“What’s been so awesome about it is that there are so many people excited about us being here,” she said. “We’re drawing from a big area. It’s very rewarding.”

Country evening The swans think it is spring, and the pond at the Blake home near Indian Creek is finally full again.

There were geese and swans on the pond and a duck came sliding in.

About the same time there were turkeys crossing the cow lot, deer crossing a pasture and an eagle in a tree in the fence line beyond the pond. Can’t beat that for a country evening! – Photo by Marilyn Blake

Village Market opens in Milltown

The newly remodeled Village Market opened in Milltown Friday, March 2, carrying a full line of groceries, fresh meats, produce and a deli. The store offers cheese from Burnett Dairy at Alpha and meats from Louie’s Meats in Cumberland, as well as specialty meats and meat cuts upon request (call in advance to place an order). Weekly specials will begin March 25, said store manager Scott Hickethier, at right, shown with owners Henry Studtmann and LuAnn White.

The owners and manager welcome suggestions about additional items that can be added to the inventory. The store is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. — Photos by Mary Stirrat

‘Follow the Leader’

M arch 14, 2007 • 2nd Se c t i on B• Inter-County Le a de r

Currents N O R T H E R N

THE LEADER’S COMMUNITY NEWS

This swan song is a happy one Burnett County trumpeter recovers at raptor center near Antigo; Lead in the wild keeps them busy year-round

by Gary King BURNETT COUNTY - The future looks bright for #91.

That’s the temporary name for a trumpeter swan, hatched at the Fish Lake Wildlife Area near Grantsburg, as it undergoes rehabilitation at the Raptor Education Group, Inc., near Antigo.

“We don’t name the birds we plan to release,” said Marge Gibson, executive director of REGI. “It kind of helps the public to understand that no one can have them in possession since it’s going back out (to the wild).”

Swan #91 is recovering from lead poisoning, a common occurrence among wild birds and particularly trumpeter swans. The Crex Meadows native – its birthplace engraved on a metal tag attached by the DNR - was in bad shape when brought to the center by a game warden. A member of the public called authorities after seeing the bird near Reedsburg, obviously in distress.

“He had so many strikes against him,” Gibson said. “He had a right wing that was broken in two places and a left wing with some large rips – he was caught up in barbed wire…really in bad shape.”

The swan also had a very high lead level in its blood from either eating lead gunshot or lead sinkers used in fishing, which had accumulated on the bottom of a pond.

“Most of our ponds have 100 years of lead in the bottom – and it doesn’t degrade,” Gibson noted. “When the water level gets low, it’s easy for a swan, with its long neck, to reach the bottom when it seines for food.”

Gibson said most people don’t realize how much of a problem lead poisoning is, even though lead shot has been outlawed for waterfowl hunting in Wisconsin. There are still other types of hunting where lead shot is still legal.

“And when you think about all the lead sinkers that are lost when casting…” Gibson said.

Minnesota and California, she notes, are states where efforts to ban lead from the wild is getting some serious support.

That’s because lead poisoning is one of the biggest killers of swans and bald eagles, the eagles sometimes getting poisoned when they feed on deer carcasses that have lead shot fragments throughout them.

“One pellet or sinker can kill them (birds),” she said, noting it can cause

neurological damage, digestive system malfunctions and heart damage.

Public education is part of the slow process in getting laws changed so that the environment can eventually be rid of lead, she added.

Treatment to cure just one swan or eagle of lead poisoning can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000, Gibson noted. It’s a process that involves a chelating treatment using calcium versenate, not unlike the treatment for children who have ingested lead, usually by eating lead-based paint.

It’s a long process that involves constant monitoring and physical therapy.

But it’s all in a day’s work for a relatively small staff – Gibson and two other full-time staff – who see about 600 birds a year at the center, including 50 bald eagles and 10 trumpeter swans. The center’s clientele includes birds from sandhill cranes to endangered warblers.

“It’s exhausting,” Gibson said. “We’re a nonprofit and we do the best we can.

The birds are such an honor to work with – they deserve the best we can give them.”

In the summer REGI’s staff increases with summer interns from universities across America and internationally. The center also has a full-time educator who visits schools and other groups with birds that have been treated at the center and, instead of released back into the wild, are used to teach others how important it is to treat our wildlife with respect.

Those are the birds that get real names, Gibson noted.

“It’s important for people to see them up close and personal,” she added. “It makes people understand they are not an anonymous glob of feathers…and if they shoot at something, it’s real and it feels pain. It has a right to be alive.”

In the beginning, Raptor Education Group, Inc. was focused on public education programs and supporting field research on avian species. In part due to the remote northern location of the center, it soon became apparent that rehabilitation would be a major part of the work done at the center.

For #91 – who with some TLC has gone from 14 pounds to 18 pounds – it won’t be long before it’s returned to the wild – possibly at Crex Meadows near Grantsburg, where it began it’s journey.

It won’t be the first swan from Crex to be helped by REGI and Gibson said people should be thankful for the huge habitat so important to birds of so many species.

“Crex is so amazing,” she said. “The people who live there should be really proud of what a prolific area it is and how valuable it is not only to the state of Wisconsin but to wildlife flying through on the Mississippi Flyway – it’s an incredibly important area.”

“Night of the Living Beauty Pageant” Page 18

Marge Gibson, executive director of the Raptor Education Group Inc. near Antigo, holds a trumpeter swan from Burnett County, that is recovering following lead poisoning. – Photo submitted REGI’s spacious loft gives young barnowls a flavor for what they will encounter after release in farm country. This experience is an important element to assure their success following release. While at REGI. the young birds are exposed to as many situations as possible to help in their survival education. – Special photo

Inside

Christian gift store opens in St. Croix Falls Page 13

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

St. Patrick’s Day parade held in Siren

Priscilla Bauer hands out goodies at Siren’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.

Sandy and Tyler from Siren enjoy Siren’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. – Photos by Sherill Summer

St. Paul Winter Carnival Royalty visits Capeside Cove

This visitor at Capeside was all dressed up for the St. Patrick’s Day activities.

Capeside’s 2007 royalty, Queen Emma Jensen and King Harry Rudisell get a visit from fellow royals of the St. Paul Winter Carnival. St. Paul Winter Carnival royalty attended many of Siren’s festivities held last Saturday, March 10. – Photo by Sherill Summer

Finish Line kickoff breakfast this Friday LUCK - A kickoff breakfast for the Luck Area American Cancer Society Run/Walk Finish Line will be Friday, March l6, 7 a.m. at Hog Wild, downtown Luck.

Businesses, schools, churches, clubs

and other organizations are encouraged to organize teams for this May 12 event.

Posters, registration forms, “foot a buck” footprints and additional information will be available at this meeting. Door prizes will be given, including Margie

Nelson’s homemade cinnamon rolls.

Luck’s Amery Regional Medical Center, Larsen Auto Centers and St. Croix Valley Hardwoods are corporate cosponsors of this 12th-annual ACS Run/Walk.

Donations by sponsors help with costs

of the event. Cheryl Langness and Carol Giller are this year’s honorary co-chairpersons. Contact Patti Mattson at 715472-2654 if you would like to attend or have any questions. - submitted

The Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

The Great Gammera

by Royce R. Anderson It was cold! The radio said it was lower than 30 degrees below zero that morning. I was in the feed room loading the wheelbarrow with ground feed for the cows.

I looked up the driveway toward the house. There was Gammy making his morning trip around the farm.

First he stops at the front door of the house. Then he travels to the other door. Finally he goes out to the bird feeder where Earl, the squirrel, is eating sunflower seeds.

When we are half done milking, straw rattles in the hole for the barncleaner return. A black face pops out of the straw. I could see his ears, chewed and ragged from too many battles with other tom cats.

Gammy knows the cats will be fed soon. The bowls will be filled with cat food and warm milk. Fifteen barn cats come running from every direction.

But not Gammy! He sits back and

watches.

Gammy is too high class to eat with other cats. He is too royal to be hurried for anything.

After all the other cats are done eating, he walks up and eats his fill. Then he some finds hay a cow has pushed out of the manger. He will climb into the pile of hay; make himself a nest and go to sleep.

The next morning when I went out to the barn, there was something I had never seen before. It was cold. Really cold! All the cats were sleeping in a loose bale of straw in the center of the way. Gammy was sleeping in the middle of the pile of cats!

It just goes to show a cold day even makes a mighty cat meek.

Writer’s Corner

When Winter Comes

by Delores Sandberg Winter came again last night And spread a blanket soft and light O’er every garden, field and lawn And gave the fir trees gowns to don So soft and fluffy, sparkling white When winter came again last night.

When dawn arrived it brought a day of calm and quiet, cold and gray.

But then an uninvited guest Appeared and did his very best To toss those blankets here and there And strip the fir trees of their wear.

At times he piled the blankets high And I was left to wonder why?

I thought it such a lovely scene Where everything lay white and clean When trees were given gowns to wear Instead of standing stark and bare.

With patience practiced I will wait For winter at a later date “~en once again there’ll come a scene Where everything will look serene.

Those gardens, fields and lawns will lie All bedded down beneath the sky.

Fir trees will sport gowns shimmering white When winter comes again some night.

Writer s Corner contest LEADER LAND – Do you have a fish tale to tell? The Writer’s Corner is looking for the best fish story to feature in May 2 issue, just before the fishing opener. If we receive several good stories, we will run a series during May. So sharpen your pencil and send or e-mail your stories to the Leader office.

If you e-mail your entry, put Writer’s Corner in the subject box.

Stories should be 800 words or less and be submitted by April 2.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

The Great Global Warming Debate The view from Here Wayne, You cite a Dr. Ball of Canada in your recent column Chill Out on Global Warming. Congratulations on finding the one remaining “scientist” who disputes the link between global Steve warming and human activity.

Pearson That must have taken some digging.

But sorry to say, my friend, you should have dug a little deeper. Turns out that your lone wolf is a controversial figure in Canada where he is now embroiled in a lawsuit over his credentials. In Canada, as with the rest of the world, the consensus of the credible scientific community is that the warming of the planet over the last 50 years is a consequence of human activity. There really is no longer any debate about this. Of course, one can always find a publicityseeking contrarian out there. Dr. Ball is nothing more than that in the eyes of climatologists in Canada and elsewhere.

Sorry to burst your bubble, dear fellow.

Time to tear up that membership card for the Flat Earth Society.

But then there is the rest. When you say there are “renowned scientists on both sides of the debate,” you attempt to convey the false notion that opinion is fairly evenly divided on the topic.

Fact is, there is virtual consensus in the

credible scientific community on the human contribution to climate change.

Any search of the literature will turn this up. Check out the recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the most thoroughly vetted and peer-reviewed report imaginable in the scientific community.

I’m afraid, Wayne, that you find yourself in a rapidly dwindling radical fringe minority. The Evangelical Right has gotten behind the effort to stop and reverse climate change. President Bush openly acknowledged it in his latest State of the Union address. And in the Congress, there is bipartisan support for reducing carbon emissions, witness the ongoing efforts of Sens. John McCain and Joe Lieberman.

You assert that “political correctness has run amok” in the debate over climate change. But for most of us, Wayne, this is no longer a political issue.

We’re finding ways to reach across party lines, to transcend labels because this is the great moral issue facing us today.

Will we muster the will to act in a way that will preserve our bountiful, beautiful planet for future generations or will we succumb to the kind of short-sighted mentality that encourages us to think only of ourselves and our own pleasure?

Regards, Steve

Write from West Sweden My Dear Steve: You’re hot—about global warming! I know this is a burning topic, but may I suggest one thing? Chill out. And while you’re chilling, let’s get the facts straight.

I see you’ve gone on those left-wing Web sites and got confused again. You let Lefty goof you up, instead of going right to the source regarding Dr. Timothy Ball. The University of Winnipeg knows the facts of Dr. Ball. Too bad the Liberal bloggers left you cold.

I called the university. They said, “Our records show that Dr. Ball was a faculty member here, in the Department of Geography, from 1971 to 1996.” I’ll do the math for you. It’s 25 years. (Some news stories said 29 years and I reported it. But what’s four years among friends?) BTW, Professor Ball taught Climatology.

Now, the point of my column was not Dr. Ball, or the long and growing list of other world-renowned scientists who are not boiling over about global warming. My point was the political hysteria surrounding global warming and the censorship if you question it.

I’m fascinated by one, and scared to death by the other.

Attention Wal-Mart shoppers! I’m going to reiterate a point from my cool column. So listen up this time.

No one is saying global warming doesn’t exist. Shocking! But it’s true my dear. Global warming has happened, off and on, since the hot and steamy dinosaur days.

Global cooling exists too. More shocking!

But that’s how Wisconsinites first got here, by walking across the Bering Straight during the Ice Age. Burr.

The Earth has warmed and Wayne cooled off and on Anderson for eons. Sometimes it gets really hot and cold, sometimes just a little. This natural cycle has been happening long before man started polluting the skies with camp fires and factories. So the politically-motivated Chicken Littles running around yelling: “The sky is falling! The sky is falling!” must be questioned.

You said I am among a “radical fringe minority.” Boo-hoo. But that can be good company. Take the radical minority in the American Revolution or the Civil Rights Movement. Size doesn’t matter if you’re right.

OK my funny Valentine, I hope I’ve got you back on track. And I will leave you with one point of agreement. Yes, we must “muster the will to act in a way that will preserve our bountiful, beautiful planet for future generations…”

But we must not go the way of Chicken Little. Stay warm, Steve.

Wayne

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

Ladies Aid

by Nina Borup Malmen The term “Ladies Aid” always brings to my memory the years that we lived in Laketown Township. Our home was a small farm on the Range Line Road (between Sterling and Laketown) about a mile south of CTH B. We were Laketown residents from 1938 to 1943.

My parents (Olof and Fannie Borup) and my aunt and uncle (Kate and Christian Borup) were members of the Laketown (Tamarack) Lutheran Church. My mother and Aunt Kate were members of the Ladies Aid at this church. They usually did a dual job of entertaining this group which had its beginning in 1892.

Planning for this event of having the Ladies Aid involved a lot of preparation which included the planning of a huge meal that resembled a mini banquet, cleaning every nook and cranny of the house and painting the kitchen chairs.

The chairs in both of our households were your average wooden-style covered with many, many layers of white enamel paint.

I am not sure if it was the summer of 1940 or 1941, anyway it was Aunt Kate’s turn to host the Ladies Aid at her home.

She and Uncle Christian resided on the Borup farm which is currently owned

by Loran and Barb Hoffman at 2864 250th Street/Hwy. 87.

The entertainment of the Ladies Aid was not without various distractions and interruptions. It was a hot and sultry day. The thermometer reading was 100 degrees in the shade. As the Ladies Aid was in the process of having their business meeting and the program, the sky became almost as black as midnight. The children who were playing outside were called into the house. Moments later a high wind engulfed the area almost bending the trees to the ground. Aunt Kate quickly lit the kerosene lamps to provide light throughout the house. Within a few moments the dark sky and the roaring wind moved to the north. It rained briefly and then the sun returned. Aunt Kate attempted to call her brother who lived near the Trade River School. The phone line was dead.

The meeting of the Ladies Aid continued, lunch was served and then the phone rang. We were astonished that the service had been restored so quickly.

Aunt Kate answered the phone, had a brief conversation with the person at the other end of the line and hung up the receiver. She reported that a twister had struck down in the Bass Lake area near Hwy. 48. A barn on one of the farms had been demolished. Two men were killed, however, the young son of one of men had survived as they sought shelter in this building.

The following year it was my

Ladies Aid at the Borup Farm around 1899-1900. Seated in the front row wearing a white hat is John Alfred Borup (author’s grandfather). Seated on the grass wearing a black suit with a white collar is Pastor O. O. Risvold.

He served the Laketown (Tamarack) Lutheran Church from 1882-1919.

Photo from Nina Borup Malmen. – Photo submitted mother’s turn to host the Ladies Aid. and to everyone’s horror the paint on Less than a week before this event we the seat and back of the chair stuck to were in the process of cleaning the the back of his shirt and the rear end of house and painting the kitchen chairs. his Sunday (good suit) trousers. Aunt For some reason Rev. Okland (served Kate felt terrible over the ruining of his Laketown 1940-1945) made a surprise clothes. This man felt terrible about the visit. Everything was a mess. I can still damage to the kitchen chair. The somesee him sitting on the corner of the what naked-looking chair sat in the corwood box while he discussed the up- ner of the kitchen until it was time to repaint it for the next Ladies Aid event. coming event with my mother.

Every church, regardless of denomiOnce again the Ladies Aid was in the process of having its business meeting nation, had a Ladies Aid, or some type and program when one of our neigh- of association, which was under the jubors appeared at the kitchen door. He risdiction of the ladies of the church. was leading one of our horses. The These hardworking women who met front right leg of the horse had become monthly were also known as the Willthe victim of a barbed wire fence. ing Workers, The Sewing Society, Martha (Brenizer) Christenson grabbed Women’s Missionary Society, Lutheran a partial sack of flour from the pantry Church Women, Augustana Lutheran and began throwing handfuls of flour Church Women and many other names.

Their efforts and ambitions resulted on the leg of the horse to ease the flow of blood. Doctor Liljeberg, who served in the raising of money for numerous the area as a veterinarian was sum- church improvements, support of mismoned. He arrived in a timely manner, sionaries, the sewing of quilts, rugs and stitched up the wounds and threw a clothing for the needy, preparation and light blue powder (some type of disin- serving of food for weddings, funerals, fectant) all over the leg of the horse and reunions, banquets, etc., and Sunday the kitchen step. Eventually the meet- morning nursery care for infants, recipe ing of the Ladies Aid continued, lunch books and let us not forget those smorgasbords. was served and the horse recovered.

Later that summer Uncle Christian and Aunt Kate hosted the annual Ladies Handy Pete of Cushing Aid ice cream social at the Borup farm.

Marion (Burnstad) Fox of St. Croix Prior to this event the house was thor- Falls sent us some more information on oughly cleaned. The yard was mani- Handy Pete of Cushing. She says: “In cured and the kitchen chairs were your River Road Ramblings column on painted.

Jan. 17, you had a question about The families of the Laketown Handy Pete of Cushing. He was my Lutheran Church arrived in their Sun- uncle, a brother of my mother, Ella day best. Following the program came Bumstad. I live in St. Croix Falls, but am the serving of the homemade ice cream, presently in Arizona for the winter. This which was topped with strawberries is what my sister Victoria Kleven of and, of course, gallons of coffee.

Minneapolis, and I remember and know One of the male members of the about our Uncle Pete. church (who weighed over 300 pounds) He was one of four boys and two elected to sit in one of Aunt Kate’s girls, children of Nels and Sophie Penewly painted chairs. It was a warm tersen who immigrated to Cushing and humid evening. As this man de- from Denmark in the 1800s. They lived cided to leave the event, he stood up on a farm two miles south of Cushing

on Hwy 87. Pete was married to Mary and they had three children, Eleda, Ebba and Bennie. His brothers were Louis (Helga) of Ladysmith, Bill (Barbara) of Steilecoom, Wash., Walter (Mary) of Bloomington, Minn., sisters, Mary (Ewald Knutson) of Berkley, Calif., and Ella (Charles Bumstad) of Trap Rock area between Cushing and Milltown.

Pete was called Handy Pete because he was known to be able to fix anything.

He had a shop in back of the house in Cushing, which is still there and does not look much different, as I remember it. He dug graves and was the caretaker of the Cushing Cemetery for many years. He also cut, stored and sold ice blocks to many local people. He always looked to be a sort of rough and tough person, but was very kind and gentle. I believe he died in the 40s, but do not have that information here. His children, brothers and sisters are all deWhich house is Marion ceased.” refering to?

SELHS Do you know more about the history of Cushing? Share it with us as part of the SELHS History of Cushing project.

We are looking for stories and old pictures to copy.

The next SELHS program is March 15, 7 p.m. at the Cushing Community Center where we will learn how to do family histories. Free, open to the public, business meeting starts at 5:45 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. by Dottie Adams of the Polk County Genealogical Society. If you have done family history, bring it along to show and tell.

The “History of the Trade River Valley” book is at 210 pages! We hope to have it available by the end of April.

Stanley and I are proofreading it. We have prepared it as a single Microsoft Word Document with pictures and captions in the document. We use the computer to lay out each page exactly as we want it to look. We will take the final version, store it on a CD and deliver it to the printer. There it is printed on a book-making machine, the cover and pages glued together, the edges trimmed and it is ready to go. To proofread it, I print it on my own printer.

First the 105 odd-numbered pages are printed, then the paper is turned over and then the even side printed on the back. Then I staple it together with a cover printed on heavier paper and we have a proof copy. We will soon be negotiating with the Leader for the printing costs. Our goal is to sell each book at $15 and make a small profit for SELHS to continue collecting and preserving local history. The book includes the River Road Ramblings historical articles with many additional stories and over 200 pictures. Coming soon!

This week we tap the maple trees!

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Home Haven in Winter Weather

by Charlotte Lanham The sort of days we have recently experienced brought to mind similar ones of long ago when the inside of the house became a haven from the winter weather, yet somehow took on a coziness not experienced on clear days when we could play out of doors.

It always had to be a very good excuse to skip school. Bad weather alone wouldn’t do the trick.

However, if snow, sleet and ice came at the same time our shoes were badly in need of half-soling, we were allowed to remain at home. We did own rubbers for our shoes but often the slush was halfway to our knees and they were of little use.

Mama made our days at home pleasant in one way or another. Often she got out the sadiron, anchored it firmly between her aproned knees to crack hickory nuts for a cake or black walnuts for a plate of fudge and suddenly the occasion became almost festival! We helped pick out the nuts and set the necessary cake pans and plates on the table ready for her and remained available to “lick” the bowl or the fudge plan.

She put a pot of beans on the back of the stove to cook for supper, and we went into the sitting room to consume the goodies by the heating stove. After awhile, she spent the afternoon with her feet propped on the base of the stove and crocheted; my stepbrother and I amused ourselves, he by playing at marbles on the rug while I cut and sewed doll clothes.

Sometimes the lady next door came over with her children and we played hide-and-seek among the pieces of furniture in the house while the ladies compared crochet patterns and talked of the imminent railroad strike which would cut down on our already skimpy income. With bills coming due about now and the coal pile shrinking every day, they spoke of ways to save money on food, about making over last year’s clothes for Easter and planning their gardens whenever planting came around again. Our dried apples and peaches, the jars of green beans and beets were daily becoming less and less, and cash was almost depleted except enough for another ton of coal paid for and hauled from the mine by our fathers.

While they worried over these matters, we children enjoyed ourselves and the afternoon passed much too soon. Sometimes we became too boisterous and were sat down on chairs until we became quiet enough to resume checkers, a game of Lotto or exercise our wits with riddles. It was almost like a party to have a special day like this and we were reluctant to have it end when it came time to say goodbye.

I sat the table for supper while my stepbrother went to the shed for coal. Mama took the potato from the end of the spout on the coal-oil can and prepared to build another fire in the kitchen. It seemed to make a tighter family circle as we went about making supper.

As Mama removed the fried meat from the skillet and made the gravy, my stepfather came in from the railroad ships, dirty from his work on an engine and she stopped to find him a pan of warm water, soap and a towel to wash up and I took my turn at stirring the gravy. How important I felt standing on a box to reach the stove, moving the heavy spoon gently back and forth … a lovely time to remember and one which will never come again.

Next day when the slush was frozen solid and we were again off to school, the world took on a sameness once more and we looked forward to some future time when we would again be kept home because of the weather and could have more of those special days at home by the fireside. (1977)

of Burlingame Lake, Burnett County. She was a faithful member of our NW Regional Writers, and she was also a talented artist. She grew up in Indiana, and moved to northern Wisconsin with her husband (and daughter) in their retirement years.

Bernice Readers recently asked for Abrahamzon more stories of history in my column, and the last few issues have been in response to that.

However, I think the Leader has quite a bit of history including the Do You Remember column provided by Olsen & Son Drug, Russ Hanson’s weekly column, River Road Ramblings, Rosemarie Vezina Braatz of St. Croix Falls, Betty Fenton about Frederic, etc.

The late Charlotte Lanham was a wonderful friend, who often wrote for The Evening Telegram in Superior.

BEHIND THE

SIGNPOST

Here on the farm A bouquet of daffodils blooms on our dining room table. It’s like a bunch of sunshine on a cloudy day. A real day brightener!

I’ve been complaining about the price of food at local stores. The other day I asked a son to get some tomatoes to go with lettuce for a salad. He said, “Mother, do you know how expensive tomatoes are?”

“Well, get an orange then,” I told him. He came home with one orange the size of a tennis ball with a thick, thick skin on it. There was hardly anything left after I peeled it. The price was 92¢ for one pathetic orange.

I consider that to be highway robbery! We are penalized for living here in the country. As an old-timer once said, “Where will it all end?”

Some of our friends have started tapping maple trees. We aren’t doing it this year as we still have some bottles in our basement. Friends have been very generous in giving us jars of the sweet stuff, venison bacon (very good), etc.

Now what we really need is a friend with an orange tree in his yard!

Did you know?

A well-worn Bible falling apart is usually owned by someone who isn’t.

Many of the song sparrow’s songs begin with the first four notes of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

A good road map will tell us what we need to know except how to fold it up again.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day May the road rise up to meet you May the wind be always at your back And may you be three days in heaven before the devil knows you’re gone.

(Old Irish Blessing) Until next week, Bernice

My Comment The above story was written by Charlotte Lanham

Cat in the Hat visits at Valley Christian Preschool Dr. Suess’ birthday was March 2 and the “The Cat in the Hat” is 50 years old.

Valley C h r i s t i a n Preschool celebrated with a visit from the “Cat.” The students were read “The Cat in the Hat” and snacked on green eggs and ham. They also made their own tall hats. - submitted

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago A weekly friendly forum column had recipes in it.Mrs. Taylor’s Sewing Shop of Frederic was available to customers wanting new dresses, aprons, alterations or mending.-Ray’s Firestone Store had a tire sale on factory blemished at two for $21.60 plus tax. (They were size 670x15).-Frederic Farmers Co-op Exchange offered grain cleaning and treating.-The film “Friendly Persuasion” with Gary Cooper and Dorothy McGuire was playing at the Frederic Theatre.-An auction was held March 8, for the Andrew Tobias Estate at the farm two miles north of Siren on Crooked Lake Road, and the listing included 57 head of Guernsey cattle, dairy equipment and machinery.-A March 15 auction was held on the Jens Jorgensen place between Frederic and Luck on Hwy. 35 with 13 milk cows for sale and farm machinery.-W.A. Quint was the Siren Village clerk.-National 4-H Club Week was observed March 2-9.-The Butternut Dairy Coop held its annual meeting, and members voted 57 to 28 to lease the Luck plant to Land O’ Lakes.-Harvey Stower was the champion speller in Frederic Elementary School’s competition.-Water was found at 38 ft. at the Frederic Country Club.-Leland Demulling of Osceola, died in Japan, following an accident.-The Frederic Red Cross quota for 1957 was set for $505.-A chimney fire at Marie Swanberg’s home located southeast of Frederic on CTH W did the usual smoke damage.

40 Years Ago The Inter-County Leader had desk blotters for sale at 5¢ each in green, tan or gray. Four-line ads were 50¢ with each additional line at 5¢.-On Washington’s birthday, the Frederic Bakery had a special on cherry tortes at 6 for 25¢.-Patronage Refund Day was held at the Frederic Farmers Co-op Exchange and Frederic Co-op Store on Feb. 22.-“Hello Neighbor” was the theme of the Grand Opening of Luck Manufacturing Co.-Linda Erickson was Miss Congeniality at the Luck Winter Carnival.Heavy snow and ice collapsed the sidewalk canopy on the north side of Oak Street in front of the Co-op Store and Route’s Market, Frederic.-Don McKinney would replace Ray Nelson as Polk County deputy.-Les’s Store, south Siren, had specials of 3 doz. eggs for $1, 2-lbs. bacon at 89¢ and 4 loaves of bread, 1-1/2-lb. size at $1.A dance was held in March at Joe’s Cross Roads, Siren, to benefit the Sand Lake Sportsmen’s Club.-Mr. and Mrs. Bill Polansky, Siren, were feeding the deer and sometimes had as many as 25 deer on the road by their home.-Obituaries included Norman Berg, Robert L. Lee, Peter Jensen and Amber Anderson.-Loren Sawyer was selling cars for Ray Nelson Motors of Lindstrom, Minn.Additional obituaries were Walter Thompson, Mollie Bentz and Charley Engle.-Specials at the Dairy Queen, Frederic were 3 royal treats or 3 (40¢) sundaes or 12 dilly bars for $1 plus tax.

20 Years Ago Dawn Holdt was crowned at the Luck Winter Carnival Pageant.-Obituaries included Fred Bosak and Pearl Pearson.-Jerald Carpenter, Luck, was president of the Resident Hall Ass’n. Council at the UW-La Crosse, where he was a sophomore majoring in accounting.-A new 30-unit motel was going up in Luck near the junction of Hwys. 35 and 48. Dale Hulett, owner of The Ranch Restaurant, was behind the project.-Harlan Garbe, Danbury, won a $100 savings bond for his winning design in the Danbury Diamond Anniversary button contest.-Mike Lindahl’s dog team successfully completed a six-mile race in the second-annual Boondocks Run.-New officers were elected for the Polk Kinship program. Peter Holliday was elected president, replacing David Grindell; Connie Usiak, vice- resident; Colleen Draxler, secretary-treasurer. Directors included Larry Blahauvietz, Rich Kammerud, Phil Oswald, Peter Raye and Donna Severson.-The policy on class trips was put on hold after a negative vote in Webster.-Webster village trustees declined signing the anti-nuclear waste resolution.-Steady growth was evident in Grantsburg Bank and brahces.-News from Red Cliff, indicated that spearfishing talks were progressing well according to the DNR.-Vern Engebretson was appointed the new loan officer at NW Federal in Siren.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

Exciting theatre series ahead for Festival in 2007 ST. CROIX FALLS – Directors have been hired, designers hard at work, and auditions about to be announced for the 2007 Theatre Series at St. Croix Festival Theatre. The season runs from June through December, but it’s a long process putting the entire series together.

“Basically, we start putting the pieces together over a year in advance opening the first show of the season” said Managing Director Danette Olsen. “To professionally produce theatre means we are constantly looking for just the right plays for our stage and we are continually courting directors and designers to be part of our team. This year we will have directors coming from Minneapolis, New York, and the greater Metro Twin Cities.”

The 2007 Theatre Series opens on June 21 with a classic American romantic comedy, “Barefoot in the Park,” by Neil Simon which will run in conjunction with “Moonlight and Magnolias” starting on July 6. “Moonlight” is a new play

by Ron Hutchinson and provides a hilarious look at the creative challenge of writing the perfect screenplay for the epic film “Gone with the Wind.”

In August, the musical “Quilters” will be performed by StageNorth Theater.

This will be the only show produced by an outside theater company during the 2007 season. Through wonderful music, story-telling and dance, “Quilters” celebrates the lives and stories of pioneer women.

Later in the year, the season is rounded out with “Talley’s Folley” by Lanford Wilson, “Foxfire” by Hume Cronyn and Susan Cooper, and “Uh Oh, Here Comes Christmas” by Ernest Julia. In addition, a very special play especially for children and their families will be offered for one week only: “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” by Laurie Brooks.

To learn all about the upcoming 2007 season, you can request a season brochure by phone, in person, or by email. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin at 210 North Washington Street. To reach Festival Theatre by phone, call 715-4833387 or 888-887-6002. You may also send an e-mail to info@festivaltheatre.org. – from Festival Theatre

Luck Area Historical Society meets Tuesday

LUCK — The monthly meeting of the Luck Area Historical Society will held Tuesday, March 20. It will be devoted to planning exhibits to be featured when their new historical museum opens in the spring of 2008.

Using a list of historical themes already developed, lists of needed pictures

and artifacts will be compiled and published in their next newsletter.

The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the Luck Village Hall on Tuesday, March 20.

Everyone is invited to help in this important planning process. Call Chuck at 715-472-4378 if you have questions. - submitted by the Luck Area Historical Society

Trees available for planting POLK COUNTY – The Polk County Land and Water Resources Department’s tree program still has trees available for spring planting. The department’s tree program has been selling trees for 20 years and each year sells around 35,000 trees to be planted, which promotes reforestation and beautification to Polk County. The money from the sale of these trees goes to sponsor youth educa-

tional programs, such as the conservation speaking contest, poster contest and tri-county soil judging contest.

Still available are conifers, hardwoods, shrubs and wildflower seeds. You may obtain an order form by calling the department at 715-485-8699 or go to the Web site at: http://www.co.polk. wi.us/landwater. – submitted

Cummings to speak at Osceola

OSCEOLA - Frederic historian and storyteller Leona Cummings will be the guest speaker at a meeting of the Osceola United Methodist Women Saturday, April 14, at 10 a.m.

It’s the UMW’s annual spring brunch and program, and the meeting will take place at the church located across from the hospital at 306 River Street.

A scene from “Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates” Festival’s 2006 HolPOLK COUNTY – The Polk County iday Show. – Photo Genealogical Society will meet Monday, submitted March 26, at 7 p.m., at the Osceola Public Library, Osceola. This month’s topic will be Irish Family History with James McCarville. McCarville will discuss an overview of Irish genealogy, its relation-

Cummings will do a presentation on The Old Country School. She attended Wood River District No. 2 school as a girl and will have interesting items for show and tell. For further information and tickets, persons may call the church office at 755-2275 or call UMW President Donna Johnson at 294-3408. – from UMW

Genealogical Society to meet ships to history and details of what can and can’t be accomplished as well as his own research. All members and visitors are encouraged to attend. The facility is handicapped accessible. For additional information contact 715-294-3447.– submitted

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement

Happy Tails Await Robbins/ Schmidt

Kevin and Denise Robbins, Luck, would like to announce the engagement of their daughter, Christina Robbins, to Kevin Schmidt, son of Bob Schmidt and Michelle Loes.

Robbins graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2005, with a degree in elementary education. She is a substitue teacher for South Washington County Schools. Schmidt graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2004, with a degree in elementary education. He is employed at Marco in St. Paul, Minn.

A June 23 wedding is planned at Bone Lake Lutheran Church in Luck. The reception will be at Trollhaugen Convention Center.

The couple resides in Woodbury, Minn.

468-2520

Dewey - LaFollette

Sympathy is extended to Jan Erickson and family due to the death of Jan’s husband, Rodger Erickson.

Karen Mangelsen visited Lois Snyder Tuesday morning.

Clam River Tuesday Club met March 7, at the home of Sandra Redding. The next meeting will be April 4, at 1:30 p.m., at the home of Lida Nordquist.

Thursday Clam River Tuesday Club led a sing-along at Capside Cove. They then served ice cream and cookies for afternoon coffee time.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen visited Maynard and Ronda Mangelsen Thursday evening.

Judy Albee called on Emma and Jerry Hall and family Thursday evening.

Several from this area attended the benefit for Amy Mangelsen held in Webster Friday. She has just finished a series of treatments for cancer.

Ronda and Maynard Mangelsen visited Mike and Nancy Longhenry.

Karen Mangelsen

Friday evening, Ronda’s sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Jerry Stieb, were there also. On Saturday, Maynard and Ronda went to Eagan to see David Lester.

Then they traveled to Wood Lake, Minn., to visit another sister- and brother-in-law, Sharon and Jim Fierstein. Sunday they attended the confirmation of their greatnephew and godson, Brandon Hyatt. They returned home Sunday evening.

Beverly Brunclik and Duane and Kathy Albee were supper guests of Judy Albee Saturday.

Don and Lida Nordquist were guests at the home of Joleen and Richard Funk Sunday. They helped Robb Funk celebrate his birthday.

There will be a dance at Indian Creek Saturday, March 24, from 7 to 10 p.m., with music by Mr. Morgan. The dance is in honor of Beverly Brunclik on her 70th birthday, and all are welcome.

Siren Senior Center

349-7249

Millie and I are still clomping around with our ice grippers on, but I believe that very soon we will be able to pack them away for another couple of seasons. I know, we can still get a lot of snow in March, but at least we are pretty near the end of the tunnel.

The center is back humming along. Our regular “girls” are still visiting us in the morning for coffee and sharing the latest news in the village.

Marge Nyberg, Myrna Thomas and Elna Wambolt helped “St. Pat” with the table and window decorations on Monday so we are all ready for the month of March. I noticed when I drove into town on Saturday that things were really hopping at all of the local watering holes, thanks to the overflow of the St. Patrick Day’s parade. Siren took off their Swedish coats and donned their Irish ones for the special occasion. I assumed that a very good time was had by all.

Tuesday dime-bingo had three tables of players. Not our biggest bunch but it will perk up now that nice weather is around the corner.

Shirley had 26 people Dining at Five on Thursday evening. Not the usual crowd, but with the weather not cooperating when she was first planning on serving corned beef and cabbage it was a good turnout.

Winners at 500 on Wednesday were Gerry Vogel, Don Heavey, Roy Magnison

Barb Munger

and Ed Berdal.

Friday spade winners were Clara Palomaki, Arvid Pearson, Marjorie Nyberg and tied for fourth place were Myrna Thomas and Gerry Vogel.

The tax assistants are still making a show on the first and third Thursday of the month until April 15, so if you need help with your taxes they will be at the center from 1 – 4 p.m. on those days, first come, first serve basis.

Get well wishes to Elaine Tjader and Jim Wallace.

The senior friends are looking forward to their trip to the Cities with our fourthgraders on the March 15; I will make a full report of the good time next week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate with us for a safe journey.

The center is open daily from Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. so if you are out and about, stop in and visit us.

The pool table, craft room and the library are all waiting for you. If you would like to dine, call one day ahead and make a reservation at 349-2845. Any information regarding the center can be answered at 349-7810.

Until next week remember, “how frustrating it is when you know all the answers, but nobody bothers to ask you the questions! “

Ivy is a 1-year-old, shorthair, black, female cat. She has a sleek and silky coat with green eyes. Ivy is full of fun and sensibility. She is silly enough to chase a dust bunny from one room to the next and smart enough to know when a spot in the sun is a moment to savor. Ivy is good with other cats and enjoys a human every now and then.

It is spring! Now is the time that everyone starts to think about adding a puppy to the household. The grass will soon be green; temperatures perfect for housetraining a puppy. Humane societies and animal shelters are great places for finding a new puppy.

The litter of beagle-retriever pups at Arnell are spayed and neutered and ready for adoption. Cute as buttons!

But what if your local shelter doesn’t have the particular breed of puppy you desire?

Before you buy, consider where your puppy came from. While the deplorable conditions of puppy mills (which mass-breed puppies for profit, often in small, cramped cages) have been well documented, it is possible to find a healthy purebred puppy that has been raised humanely, with good breeding practices.

To locate a reputable, responsible breeder, you must do your research.

Ask for references. Personally visit the Hello, everyone Fritz here. It’s been a difficult week for all of us here. One of our best friends Kathleen Anderson died over the weekend. Kathleen spent many years helping us here at the shelter both as a board member and a volunteer. We will miss her ready smile and easy laugh, her compassionate heart and the love and encouragement she shared with all. This short story is in memory of Kathleen.

The Rainbow Bridge

There is a bridge connecting heaven and earth.

It is called the rainbow bridge because of its colors.

Just this side of the rainbow bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place.

There is always food and water and warm spring weather.

The old and frail animals are young again. Those who are maimed are made whole. They play together all day.

There is only one thing missing: they are not with their special person who loved them on earth.

Each day they run and play until the

kennel and ask to see the puppy’s parents. This is extremely important, so that you can evaluate the conditions in which the puppy has lived, the Ivy character of the breeder and the condition of the puppy’s parent or portents. Healthy parents have healthy puppies, devoid of the physical and psychological genetic defects caused by inbreeding or ignorance of good breeding practices. Legitimate facilities encourage prospective owners to visit. A reputable breeder will ask you to answer several questions in order to qualify for one of their puppies. They will always offer a money back health guarantee.

If your dream puppy is not available at a local shelter, don’t give your business to a puppy mill breeder. Each sale of a puppy mill puppy furthers the deplorable conditions these puppies are raised in and ensures that more will suffer the same.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St. E, Amery, 715-268-7387 (PETS) or visit our pets online: www.amhs.petfinder.com. day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up.

The nose twitches!

The ears are up! The eyes are staring!

And this one suddenly runs from the Fritz group.

You have been NEWS FROM seen and when you and your special friend meet, you take him or her in your arms and embrace.

Your face is kissed again and again and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting friend.

Then you cross the bridge to heaven together, never again to be separated.

-Author unknown.

YOUR SHELTER

Kathleen has so many special furry friends that she helped from the shelter here. I suspect St. Peter was a bit overwhelmed! Heaven rejoices in your coming home Kathleen but we will miss you dearly here on earth.

May you rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord. www.hsburnettcty.org 29L

Happy Corners Vern Catlin visited at the Amanda Catlin home on Monday forenoon.

Mardel Barnette and Shawn and Pat Richards were in Amery on Monday afternoon.

Fran Krause

Vern Catlin visited at the Gene Doster home on Tuesday afternoon.

Pat Richards went back to Tennessee on the bus on Friday evening and arrived there on Sunday forenoon.

Orange

Guests of Maxine Stone last week were Iola Rachner, Doris Schauers, Myrtle Budd, Darlene Nelson and Gloria Fahlan.

Brad and Spencer Peterson attended a bear hunters convention in Stevens Point over the weekend. Mallory Peterson is home on spring break.

Fran Krause and Bob and Mary Jane Ramstrom attended the retired teachers luncheon at St. Dominic’s in Frederic.

Congratulations to the Webster boys

LaVonne O’Brien

basketball team. They got a trophy for winning at regionals and medals for winning at sectional. Sadly they lost on Saturday night to Eau Claire Regis.

Visitors at Jack O’Brien’s last week were Pat and Nancy O’Brien, Mark Dumas and Samuel, Bob Burford and Jim, Dave and Wally Childers. Bob O’Brien and Rylee were dinner guests on Wednesday evening.

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Lewis

653-4281 Four members of the Lewis church attended the luncheon Wednesday noon, provided by the Siren United Methodist women at the church. The menu included homemade ravioli, red gelatin, French bread, sherbet and St. Pat’s cookies.

LaVonne boyer, Esther Schallenberger, Linda Baxter and Bernice Abrahamzon attended. The guest speaker displayed resources available to church women.

The NW Regional Writers met on Friday at Big Gust Apts., Grantsburg, with a good turnout. Present were president Mary Jacobsen, Boyd Sutton, Maxine and Walter Fluegal, Stan Miller, Sandra Spores, Kathy Krantz, Eunice Kanne, Josie Fisk, Denis Simonsen, Bev Handy, Bob MacKean and Bernice Abrahamzon. Both the April and May meetings will be held at Sunrise Apts., Frederic.

Local writers are looking forward to the spring writers conference on Saturday, April 21, at Amery, in the arts center. Watch for information. Jerry Apps may be one of the featured speakers.

Last Wednesday’s Lenten service was

very well attended at the Lewis church with Pastor Freddie of St. Luck’s UM Church as guest speaker. She represented the beloved John, as he testified about his connection with Jesus. Pastor Mike was the Lenten speaker at St. Luke’s last Wednesday.

The Lenten service was preceded by a soup/hot dog in bun, cookie supper, served by the Lewis UMW. This week’s supper followed by message will be held at the Siren United Methodist Church, as the two churchs are alternating in the Lenten series.

Congratulations to Allison and Michael Scherrf of rural Frederic, who became parents last week of a baby girl, Hannah.

Congratulations, too, to proud grandparents, Roberta and Butch Sahr, also of rural Frederic.

LaVerne Leep spent several days at Hutchinson, Minn., visiting Diane and Ron Ackland along with other family members.

LaVerne has been looking forward to attending a great-granddaughter’s skating program. She is a senior this year, and this

Bernice Abrahamzon

will be her final skating show.

The snow is going down, and lots of melt water in streets and on sidewalks. Mud time is coming.

Belated happy birthday to Jody Pearson.

Her special day was last Friday, March 9.

Pastor Mike and Candy were called downstate by the serious illness of a son.

LaVonne Boyer, Karen Alden and Sylvia Schaetzel stepped in to handle Sunday’s service. The choir sang a special number very fitting for the Lenten season.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Oh, those Irish have so much fun, it makes everyone else wish to be Irish.

Daffodil Sunday was observed at the Lewis Church with daffodils on the alter.

These were later distributed so everyone received a single bloom, a reminder of hope for cancer patients, hope for recovery and hope for a cure. Individuals had also ordered bouquets in advance from chairperson JoAnn Gibbs.

Volunteers are needed at the Frederic Food Shelf to help on Thursday, from 2-6 p.m. The Lewis church is responsible for

every Thursday in March. If able to help, please contact LaVonne Boyer.

Robin Peterson and her friend, Carla Goetz, attended the Set Aport women’s conference held Friday and Saturday at Northwestern College. The conference celebrated its 25th year in 2007. The conference was developed to equip women to grow intellectually and spiritually, enabling them to go into their communities and the world to serve effectively in God, honoring leadership roles. This year’s conference was entitled “Refresh.” Keynote speakers at the conference included, authors Karen Kingsbury and Brenda Salter McNeil. Worship and praise services were led by musician Elizabeth Hunnicutt. Conference attendees could choose 3 of 16 inspiratioinal workshops to attend each day. All proceeds from the conference are placed in a scholarship fund for students attending Northwestern College.

Robine and Carla also attended the Friday evening concert at Northwestern College given by Brandon Heath and Bebo Norman.

Webster Senior Center After lunch on Monday, Theresa Gloege, Gladys Beers, Margel Ruck, Jane Wardean and I decorated the center in a St. Patrick’s Day theme. We were having such a good time that we decided to stick around for a while and play several games of cards. Deb and her nutrition staff were very appreciative of having this done as it will be part of the theme when they serve corned beef and cabbage on Tuesday, March 13. March is National Nutrition Month and diners have been signing up daily for the weekly drawing.

There were 14 players at dime bingo on Wednesday and Jane Wardean, Gladys Beers and Margel Ruck took turns at doing the calling. As usual, there was a nice variety of tasty goodies to munch on.

The usual group of pool and card players were at it again on Thursday evening.

Margel Ruck and her mother, Olive Gerhke and sister Dorene Hendrickson, both of Balsam Lake, celebrated Dorene’s birthday in the evening by having dinner at the Loose Change Café in Danbury.

The AARP tax assistance representatives were kept busy on Friday afternoon

helping our seniors prepare their homestead credit and income tax returns for 2006. For those of you that haven’t done so yet, the next date at our center is Friday, March 23, from 1 to 4 p.m.

We all wish our Aging Director Lois Taylor a belated happy birthday and welcome her back, as she spent a week in Florida visiting family.

Thursday evening, March 29, is the date for our next Dining at Five evening meal, and Deb will be serving chicken, potato salad, baked beans with chocolate-cherry cake for dessert. Yum Yum! Call 8665300 for your reservation to attend.

Our gratitude is extended to Harold Peterson for shoveling, salting and sanding our walks for hopefully the last time this season; and Gladys Beers for taking over Leon Mansfield’s home-delivered meal route in his absence on Friday.

Our get-well wishes and prayers continue to go out to Norma Martin, Kathy Beyer, Ray Hammerschmidt, Thelma Klugow, John Cullen, Wanda Champine, Kathy Klemm, and Gladys Packer who is recovering from a fall by the post office.

St. Croix Valley Senior Center March came in like a lion, but it has settled down for awhile. Spring must be on the way.

Our Tuesday afternoon domino winners were: Janice Mevissen in first place, Don Anderson in second place, Ione Meixner in third place. The 500 card winners were: Lonnie Jones in first place, Muriel Randelin in second place, Don Benson in third place and Elaine Edlund in fourth place.

Maintain a hopeful, optimistic view of the world and those in it. Treat others as you

want to be treated. Maturity is the ability to do a job whether or not you are supervised, to carry money without spending it and to bear an injustice without wanting to get even. Age is a high price to pay for maturity. Maturity is reached the day we don’t need to be lied to about anything.

The Thursday evening 500 winners were: Roger Greenlee in first place, Elroy Petzel in second place, Olga Young in third place and Phil Mevissen in fourth place.

Have a great day!

Frederic Senior Center The weather is beginning to look like spring.

Monday spades, played at 1:30 p.m., was well attended. The winners were: Deloris Potter in first place, Irene Chasensky in second place, Donald Danielson in third place and Jean Hinrichs in fourth place.

Pokeno was played at 1 p.m. We have a nice group enjoying playing together.

Thursday night cards at 6:30 p.m., the following 500 card winners were: Nina Vold in first place, Dave Peterson in second place, Don Antiel in third place, Hazel Hoffman in fourth place and Myrna Wyck in fifth place. A large crowd of players attended. If you like to play 500, join them.

Dottie Adams

Ardyce Knauber

Friday was our monthly meeting at 1:30 p.m., pokeno and cards were played after the meeting and all joined in, having lunch at 3:30 p.m.

Saturday share-a-lunch was attended by a large group who enjoyed a buffet dinner and bingo or cards.

Tax aides will be here Thursday, March 15, 9 a.m. to noon.

Get-well wishes to Joyce McKinney.

We will celebrate our March birthdays on Saturday, March 17. The following have March birthdays: Art Baker, Maeve Lurek, Joyce McKinney, Marlys Borchert and Roger Sullivan.

Mary Klar

Our sympathy and prayers also go out to the family of Allen Warden in his recent passing.

How many times has something happened in your life that made you wish that you could start all over again or just have done something in a different way? Louisa Tarkington once said “I wish that there were some wonderful place in the Land of Beginning Again; where all our mistakes and all our heartaches, and all of our poor, selfish grief could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door and never put on again.” God does not cause the tragedies in our lives, but he does use them as opportunities for us to cooperate with him.

Stop praying and bad things start to happen. Our task is to be prepared for what life throws at us. Jesus is ready and waiting for us to call on him. His telephone line is always open and never leaves us waiting until we are in a better reception area, we are never out of his range. “Be merciful unto me, O Lord; for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant; for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul, for thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto them that call upon thee.-Psalm 86:3-5.

See you at the center!

Births Anya Marie Mothes was born Monday, March 5, at 3:16 p.m., at Lakeview Hospital, Stillwater, Minn. Anya weighed 7 lbs., 9-1/2 oz. and was 19-1/2 inches.

She is the first child for Reno and Bria

Mothes of Cottage Grove, Minn.

Maternal grandparents are Dean and Janet Hill of Lake Elmo, Minn. Paternal grandparents are Rudy and Ruth Mothes, Siren. – submitted

Luck Senior Center

472-8285

How about this nice warm weather! I hope it keeps up, but I am sure we can still have some cold and snowy weather. We just have to take it one day at a time!

Maybe now that the weather has warmed up, more of you seniors can come out of hibernation and come on down to the senior center for some coffee and conversation.

Our last two attempts at our monthly potluck has gone down the tubes, so, hopefully we won’t have a snowstorm on March 31, our next monthly potluck at noon. Keep your fingers crossed.

The Luck Senior Citizen Center has been invited to the Siren Senior Community Center on Thursday, March 22, at 1 p.m. Coffee

Shirley Lund

and dessert will be served. The Siren seniors would like to visit with us, and exchange ideas. Please sign up on the sign-up sheet on the bulletin board at the center or call Shirley Lund, 715-472-2803,

by March 19. I think this is a great opportunity to get together with our neighbors from other towns, and find out what they are doing at their centers, that may help us at our senior center. So, sign up when you come in for coffee.

The Luck Senior Center will be closed on Thursday, March 22, so that we can attend the meeting at Siren Senior Community Center.

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Cloverton - Markville

320-242-3933 All of us out here in the little townships of Arna and New Dosey would like our grader and snowplow drivers to know how much we appreciate the fine work they did following both of the storms recently. Our hats are off to Doug Witta, Ed Proffit and Todd Elliott. Many thanks to each of you.

Weekenders continue to treat us yearround residents so well. Such was the case on Saturday when Rick Demaris and Craig Eldridge took Clara Lilly to dinner at the Hay Creek Outpost. Joining them was another weekender, Brian Nordquist. Clara

enjoyed her time with them very much.

Don Johnson, 78, brother-in-law of Boots Raboin, passed away recently. Don, who lived in Stillwater, was married to Boots’ sister, Marie. He had been battling diabetes and prostate cancer for years.

Boots’ son, Dan, came up last weekend to help his dad shovel out. And shoveling it was, since the snowblower was on the blink. Dan lives in Chisago City.

Evelyn Johnson went to a Lenten service in the Cities in which three of her grandchildren participated. Becky on the piano,

Siren

349-2964

What a great three-day weekend we had. Three beautiful, warm days with sun and the temps in the ‘40s and ‘50s. The snow the snowmobilers got to enjoy for about a week won’t last long. Spring is in the air. Take a look around many area stores, spring items abound as do the garden seeds, bulbs and even a few spring plants. Before too long, instead of hear, the hum of snowmobiles, we will once again be hearing the steady hum of lawnmowers.

Siren School will be holding a registration day for 4-year-old kindergarten on March 23. Kids must be 4 by Sept. 1 to be able to register. For more information call 349-2278.

Congratulations to elementary student Alex Litz; middle school student Isaac Wegner and high school student Allison Didier for being chosen students of the week at Siren School.

Art and Bev Beckmark enjoyed a great dinner and night out Friday, March 9, for Bev’s birthday. While dining at Madden’s, they visited with Clarence and Jeannie Johnson and found out they also had a birthday to celebrate. Seems that Jeannie and Bev share the same birth date. Happy birthday again to my birthday twin, and many more.

Bev Beckmark

There will be a solo and musical ensemble held on March 22 at the Webster School. Some of the kids will be competing for a chance at going to state and others will be performing just for fun.

Sympathy to the family of Patricia McDonough, who passed away Feb. 24.

Sympathy to the family of Jon A. Carson, who passed away March 2.

Sympathy is also extended to the family of June Westlund, who passed away March 3.

The Whistling Wings Ducks Unlimited will hold their 23rd-annual ladies banquet on March 19 at the Siren Northwoods Crossing Event Center with a 5 p.m. social hour and a program at 6:30 p.m. Cost for the dinner and membership is $45 per person. For more information call Jackie at 715-327-8049 or Deanne at 715-327-4965.

Art and Bev Beckmark and LeRoy and Violet Beckmark spent last Sunday afternoon shopping in Spooner. Art and Bev enjoyed a visit from Jerry and Julie Roy Sunday evening.

Capeside Cove Employee of the Month

Carol Doric Carol Doric was chosen as the Employee of the Month at Capeside Cove Good Samaritan Center for the month of February. She has been employed at Capeside since September 2005 as a CNA. She was born in Shakopee, Minn., but currently resides in Siren, with her husband, Greg. She has three children, twins Laura and Curtis and younger daughter, Debbie. Carol also has three grandsons, Taylor, 10 years old, Johnathan, 8 and Anthony, 5. One of the most outstanding events in her life was the birth of her twins. Carol says she loves to sit by the campfire with her family, roasting hot dogs, smores and camper pies. She also enjoys fishing and watching her favorite show, “Grey’s Anatomy.” Carol’s most favorite thing about working at Capeside is “seeing the smiles from the residents and working with a very good group of people.” Congratulations Carol!

– submitted

Joe on the organ and Derrick playing drums, were a big part of the musical program. Even little Thomas, age 6, had a small part in the show. The group all gathered at Wendy’s afterwards for supper.

On Sunday, Evelyn attended a shower for grandniece Chantel Johnson in Chisago City.

It was a really nice visit for Esther and Jim Vink when son Darrel stopped in the other day.

Jim Allen was excited to see a fisher down by Hay Creek on his land the other day. He thought at first he was seeing an otter, but, upon getting his binoculars, he could see it was actually a fisher.

It took Mel Elliott three days of plowing snow around his farm to get enough land cleaned up so the cattle could navigate the grounds to get hay, water and to the barn.

After a doctor appointment in the Cities on Tuesday, Jan Streiff did some shopping, which included the purchase of a solar panel.

Shirley and Jerry Blokzyl have also been digging out of the snow, then enjoying the lone turkey that visits them off and on during the day.

Fran Levings Ruth and Gary Ament recently completed a First Responder course in Sandstone. The course is taught by a private instructor from the Cities. His name is Paul Asted and he is with Medical Training Inc. Gary, Leon Berg and Allen Wolf have also completed Firefighter I and II courses.

These courses, taught by Andy Spartz, Sandstone Fire Chief, were sponsored by the Duxbury Volunteer Fire Department.

The Allen Wolfs thoroughly enjoyed the weekend visit of daughter Heidi and her husband, Cary, and daughter, Danielle, recently. They had to walk through the snowdrifts to get to the Wolf Den for their visit.

On the home front, Dave and I enjoyed the beautiful, white winter. I took the three dogs for walks while Dave worked on his art. His friend Jeff Lewis, artist-poet from Minong, invited Dave to an art history lecture at UW-Superior on Tuesday. Then, a sculptor friend from St. Paul, Minn., Tom Attridge, came for an overnight in front of the fireplace.

It’s quiet in these townships, wherever you are.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS

Amery Public Library “The Echo Maker” by Richard Powers On a dark winter night on a deserted Nebraska road, 27-year-old Mark Schluter has a near-fatal accident with his pickup truck. His sister, Karin, rushes to his bedside at the hospital to find Mark suffering from a traumatic head injury. She decides to stay by his side, but when he finally comes to and regains consciousness, he insists that she is not his sister but an imposter. He can’t remember what caused the crash.

Richard Powers has written a powerful novel about love and loss. A famous neurologist, Gerald Weber, is called in and decides that Mark has Capgras Syndrome, a specific brain injury which causes people to believe everyone they love is an imposter. Mark even thinks his dog is an imposter!

Set in the amazing Platte River valley, home of the convergence of sandhill cranes, Powers has woven in the story of the cranes with the stories of the people.

Armed with an anonymous note left at the scene of the accident, Karin and Mark must try to decipher what it all means.

The Echo Maker is a well-written, serious novel with ecological implications about the future of birds and water and ultimately people.

Story time Story time will be held on Wednesday morning with special guest Denise Christiansen who will grace us with her Celtic harp in honor of the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day. Story time is at 10:30 a.m. and everyone is welcome for songs and stories.

Book group The Friends of the Library Book Group will meet on Monday, March 19, at 7 p.m. to discuss “King Solomon’s Mines” by H. Rider Haggard. Pick up a copy at the circulation desk and join us for exciting book talk.

The Otaku Club meets every Tuesday at 5 p.m. for teens who love manga and anime. Stop in and check out our manga cart with new titles coming frequently.

The Great Stories club meets on March 19, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. to discuss “A Walk to Remember” by Nicholas Sparks.

Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Federal income tax forms are available at the library. The Internet is a great source for downloading additional forms you need for only 5 cents per copy!

Three Internet computers: You must physically present a MORE library card

Library Hours Mon. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tues. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer.

Story time Lapsitter and preschool story times begin at 10:30 a.m. Join us for stories, songs, fingerplays, crafts and more!

Story time Every Thursday morning at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m., we offer a fun and exciting time for younger children.

Come and hear a wonderful book and enjoy coloring and word puzzles afterwards.

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.; Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Frederic Public Library

What are the book groups reading in March?

The evening book group will meet March 15 at 7 p.m. to discuss “All the Pretty Horses” by Cormac McCarthy, a coming-of-age tale set in Texas and Mexico that won the National Book Award in 1992. The Thursday morning reading group will meet Thursday, March 22, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “Man and Boy” by Tony Parsons, a novel described as a story with universal appeal. New members are always welcome!

We deliver (but not pizza) If you live in the village of Frederic and you’re homebound and cannot visit

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 Knit and crochet site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org. also Join the most exciting group in Millhas information about story times, days town at the library on the first and third closed, reference links, library policy Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. Exand much more. perts and beginners are invited! If you’re in the middle of a project and are looking for help or just fun conversation while you finish that sweater, hat, mitten or whatever, please join us for the next meeting on March 15. Beginners are also test will be for children between the ages invited for free lessons from talented club of 2 and 18. Cash prizes will be awarded members – just call the library at 825for the most creative, the most original, 2313 to ensure that a teacher and materiand the cutest in three age categories. If als will be ready for you. you haven’t seen our new building yet and want to get in on the excitement, we We are wireless would love to have you at the event.

Bring your laptops to the Milltown This is your community, your library, Public Library and enjoy our new, free, your museum and your event. Show fast wireless Internet access. No more your support – be there. waiting for an open computer! Surf the Preschool story hour is held Wednesnet from a comfortable chair! No time days from 10 – 11 a.m. All preschoollimits! aged children are welcome. We focus on early literary skills, story sequencing, Story hour emergent phonics, the alphabet and Milltown Public Library offers two other prereading skills. We hope to see story times every Tuesday. The morning you there.

the library, the library will come to you!

Volunteers or library staff will set up a schedule with you, choose materials by your request, and deliver them to your door. If you would like this service (or if you know someone who would benefit from it), please contact the library.

It’s official!

The numbers are tallied, and Frederic library circulated 73,290 items in 2006 – a 10-percent increase over 2005 statistics.

About 30 percent of our circulation is children’s materials, and 70 percent is adult materials. We think our supporters and library customers are the greatest people in the world!

Tax forms are available The basic tax forms are here, including the Wisconsin homestead credit and rent certificate schedules. We will also be happy to download other tax forms from the Web for you.

Library hours at a glance Regular library hours are Mon. 10 a.m.

- 7 p.m.; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The library is closed on Tuesdays.

How to contact the library Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak St. West.

715-327-4979. fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Milltown Public Library

Luck Public Library The Luck Library / Museum will be holding its fundraising kick-off event Saturday, March 17. It will be dubbed Live at the Lot and, while it is not a fundraiser, it will be a chance for the entire community to celebrate the coming of the new Luck Library and the Historical Society Museum. The event will begin at 1 pm. We invite everyone to join us on our lot for an historic commemorative photo. We will then retire to the DBS hall for corned beef sandwiches, chips, soda and dessert. While at the hall we will enjoy a program by Leona Cummings and a costume contest. Kids and adults alike can come dressed as your favorite historical figure or literary character. The costume con-

Knitting and crocheting group Join the most creative group in Clear Lake at the library on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 4:30 p.m. Experts and beginners alike are invited. If you’re in the middle of a project and are looking for help or just want to stay motivated while you finish that sweater, hat, mitten or whatever, come join us on March 14. Beginners are welcome. Free lessons and materials are provided.

Teens Read book group Teens Read book group meets on March 26 to discuss “My Sister’s Keeper” by Jodi Picoult. Stop at the cir- Support your food shelf in March culation desk and pick up a copy if you and April The next time you come to the library, are a teen. Snacks will be served from be sure to bring some food items – you 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. will help keep the local food shelf stocked, and the weight of your items History group History group will begin the end of will count toward receiving a monetary March with Prof. Herb Cederberg dis- donation from the Feinstein Foundation, cussing American Exploration from the a group dedicated to alleviating hunger.

Vikings to Jamestown to Lewis and Don’t forget to add some grocery items Clark. If you are interested in joining this to your bookbag – you’ll feel good about group, which will meet once a month for helping others in need. three months, call the library at 268-9340 We’re going to the dogs! for more information.

Preschoolers and their caregivers are The Amery Public Library has tax forms; state, Minnesota and federal invited to story hour at 10:30 a.m., March forms. Stop in and check out our selec- 21, when we will have stories and activities all about dogs. tion.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009. The Dresser Public Library Board of Trustees holds its monthly meeting on the last Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

Clear Lake Public Library

Osceola Public Library

story time begins at 10 a.m. Can’t make it in the morning? We will repeat the program at 6:30 p.m. 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.

Book club The Milltown Book Club will discuss “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy on March 26 at 7 p.m. Extra copies of this book are available for checkout now at Milltown Public Library. New members and guests are always welcome at the book club discussions. Refreshments will be served. On April 30, the book club will discuss “Rise and Shine” by Anna Quindlen at 7 p.m.

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.

Dresser Public Library

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Balsam Lake Public Library Story time Story time is at 11 a.m. every Wednesday at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks. Please join us for this fun-packed hour.

Special event Beginners rubber stamping class will be held Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m.

- noon. All ages welcome. Learn how-to start to make your own cards, invitations and book markers. Class instructor has years of experience with rubber stamping.

Spring ahead Now is the time to plan those summer vegetable and flower gardens. We have alot of how to books to get you started in the right direction. We will be having speakers in the near futureto talk about gardening and lawn care so watch the paper.

MORE On the MORE Web site click on My History and you can keep track of what you have read.

“One sure window into a person’s soul is his reading list.”?- Mary B. W. Tabor Book lovers group This group gets together monthly to share favorite authors and books. Group will meet again on Wednesday, April 4, at 3 p.m. Read their comments of favorite books.

Knitting group Join us for an evening of knitting and crocheting. Beginners encouraged and

welcome, lessons will be given. Bring a project or start a project here. Good conversation and helpful hints are guaranteed. We meet Monday, March 19, 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Book club Will meet Wednesday, March 21, at 3 p.m., our nest book is “Shadow Divers: The True Adventure of Two Americans Who Risked Everything to Solve One of the Last Mysteries of World War II” by Robert Kurson.

“Kurson’s ‘Shadow Divers,’ about the divers exploring a sunken shipwreck off the New Jersey coast, is a gripping account of real-life adventurers and a reallife mystery. In addition to being compellingly readable on every page, the book offers a unique window on the deep, almost reckless nature of the human quest to know.” —Scott Turow, author of “Reversible Errors.”

Friends of the Library Friends of the Library book sale last Saturday was a great success. Many books found new homes, and we still have a good start for our June book sale.

We will still take donations. Friends Group will meet again on Wednesday, March 28, at 1:30 pm.

Hours Balsam Lake 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: balsamsite lakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Osceola Public Library 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 715294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

Polk County Library Federation Hey teens, the Polk County Library Federation is again hosting the Teen Poetry Contest.

April is national poetry month and to celebrate, the Polk County Library Federation will be hosting the third-annual Teen Poetry Contest. The contest will run April 1 – 18, and is open to students in grades 6 -12. All entries must be turned in by 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the student’s local public library or mailed to: Polk County Library Federation 400 Polk County Plaza Balsam Lake, WI 54810 Winners will be announced at: open mic night, Goochy Noochy’s Coffee Bar, 115 N. Washington St., St. Croix Falls, on Saturday, April 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call Molly Kessler; assistant /youth services librarian for more information at 4858680.

Books by Mail readers Spring into Spring at the Polk County Library Federation with the first-annual reading program; this program is being offered from March 15-May 31. Look for details in your Books-by-Mail order. Receive gifts for reading a book and sending in a short review.

Friends of the Polk County Library is a non-profit 501c3 organization. If you are looking for a tax deduction before April 15 consider giving a donation to this group. The group is working on purchasing an LCD projector for shared use among the 10 public libraries for programming in the local libraries.

Suitcase Story Kits: be sure to check out the newly linked suitcase stories.

For the complete list contact www.polkcountylibrary.org or call the Polk County Library Federation for more details: 485-8680.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

Unity L.E.A.D. program presents Family Literacy Night BALSAM LAKE – For thousands of years people have looked to the sky and wondered about it. Unity LEAD students and families learned the science behind the scene in the sky during a program presented by Space Education Initiatives from Green Bay on Monday, March 12. Following the presentation, families rotated through learning stations. Families learned about the astronaut farmer and participated in a writing activity with Mrs. Lechman, built AlkaSeltzer powered rockets with Mrs. Petzel and surfed space and flight Web sites with Peg Tarman and Karla Cook.

Students attending Monday and Wednesday LEAD sessions in March will discover not only how astronauts get into space, but also how they live and work once they get there. They will learn about gravity, propulsion and the basics of rocket science through fun, hands-on activities. Experiments with balloon rockets and other high-flying objects will round out their air adventure.

The Unity L.E.A.D. program is an after-school program that is designed to help students reach their fullest potential through developing academic and life skills, to learn by doing and to enhance self-esteem. The L.E.A.D. program is funded by a Fund for the Improvement of Education. This grant made is made possible by Wisconsin’s 7th District Congressman Dave Obey. – submitted

Teyha Studie selects books about space and flight to take home.

Daniel Ebensberger and his mom create an Alka-Seltzer rocket.

Jason Marcks from Space Education Initiatives of Green Bay provided a program on space travel.

Deborah Raboin and son Owen work together to create a rocket.

The O’Geay family knows that reading is a family affair.

Photos submitted

Owens named Junior Jersey Breeder of the Year FREDERIC – Chris Owens is the Junior Jersey Breeder of the Year. Owens is the 19-year-old son of Roger and Kim Owens of Frederic. He received the award over the weekend in Marshfield, at the annual Jersey Banquet.

He is a 2005 graduate of Frederic High School, and is currently in his second year in the Agriculture Power and Equipment Technician Program at WITC-New Richmond. Owens has been involved in a number of Jersey activities, is a member of Parish VI Jersey Breeders and is a junior member of the WJBA and the AJCA. He has shown at the Polk County Fair from the time he was old enough, and has since shown at the Wisconsin State Fair, the Minnesota State Fair, World Dairy Expo and the AllAmerican Jersey Show.

One of Owens most-memorable showing experiences was his first year showing at Expo. He was 7 years old, and they had just instated the rule that kids had to be 9 to show in showmanship. The cow Owens was showing was nine, so they let him in the ring. He spent most of his time in the ring checking out the awesome decorations and looking for people he might know. Thank goodness, the cow knew quite a bit more than the boy at the other end of the halter.

Besides showing, Owens has been to a number of parish and state Jersey meet-

Chris Owens ings, and also to three AJCA-NAJ annual meetings, where he got to visit lots of interesting Jersey herds, and meet lots of other adult and junior Jersey breeders.

Owens and his extended family have also hosted Jersey events; 1999 AJCANAJ meeting/tour from Minnesota, an area dairy breakfast and other dairy events. They have also had many foreign and U.S. Jersey breeders visit. Last May

Owens also had the chance to tour some Jersey dairies in the U.K., when he took a trip with his family.

Owens began his Jersey herd with a calf purchased in the 1996 Badger Treasure Sale, Deer Brook RDH Erica. She eventually earned him second place in the Badger Treasure production contest.

Unfortunately, Erica only produced one heifer calf, and her descendents have been no more heifer-prolific. Owen’s three milking cows have a current actual 305-day average of 15,486 milk, 725 fat and 550 protein. His current appraisal average is 85.

In addition to attending school full time, Owens is employed part-time at Owens Farms, Inc. During the summer he works full time. Owens has worked with calves there since he was 3 or 4, and began driving tractor at about 9. Now he does a variety of jobs, including helping with most of the fieldwork, scraping barns, working on farm equipment and

milking cows. Owens was very involved in the decision to build a new calf barn in 2005. He also helped design, plan and build it; and has helped with the construction of other farm buildings as well.

Owens has been an 11-year member of Indian Creek 4-H, where he carried his Jersey project every year, and where he also was in the beef project, showing Jersey and Jersey-cross steers for a number of years. He was also active in shooting sports, and is an avid hunter. Owens is a member of the Lorain United Methodist Church and a member of the Lorain Volunteer Fire Department, where he has completed two years of training, and continues to train annually. He also has worked with several fundraisers for the department. In high school, Owens played four years of football, and was on the wrestling team until problems with his knee ended his involvement. – submitted

Western Jamboree coming!

FREDERIC - Students in first, second and third grades will step back in time to the Old West on Thursday, March 22, to present their Western Jamboree.

The cowboys and girls will sing,

dance, ride horses, play instruments and have a stompin’ good time! Dust off your cowboy hats and join them in the elementary gym at 7 p.m. No admission charged. - submitted

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Christian gift store opens in SCF

by Julie Holmquist ST. CROIX FALLS - A Christian gift shop opened its doors last Thursday in the Franklin Square in downtown St. Croix Falls.

Named Leap of Faith by owner Barbara Madsen, the store offers gifts for young and old alike, all with a Christian or positive theme.

“I was led by faith to take a leap of faith,” Madsen said about starting the business.

The former health-care worker had been considering a change, and said she had her eye on the open spot in Franklin Square near Coffee Time for more than a year.

The shop offers decorative items as well as gifts for special occasions such as graduations, anniversaries, weddings, confirmations, first communions and holidays.

Rooster signs proclaiming “Rejoice!”, coffee mugs with Bible verses, T-shirts sporting Scripture, some books, CDs and DVDs are a few examples of the shop’s merchandise.

“I chose items for every age category,”

Barbara Madsen opened Leap of Faith gift shop last week in downtown St. Croix Falls. – Photo by Julie Holmquist

Madsen said. “Little kids, teenagers, young adults, older adults. And I’ll have catalogs here too, if anyone wants to order something.”

The shop carries a few items for people in recovery, and Madsen will be adding garden-themed gifts in the near future.

The Eureka resident said that starting a business for the first time has been a learning experience, one supported by her husband, Bruce, and family. Two of her five adult children have helped out with computer needs and pricing, and a granddaughter is looking forward to working at the shop, she said.

Madsen said she always wanted to open a business. After 20 years of working in health care, she said she was ready, but didn’t know what kind of business to start until last fall.

“The inspiration hit me,” she said. “I never had a doubt that this was the right thing to do.”

Current hours for Leap of Faith are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Frederic area kicks off American Cancer Society 2007 Run/Walk FREDERIC – Your opportunity to help find a cure for cancer is here. Join with area volunteers and participate in the American Cancer Society Run/Walk Finish Line. It is a 2-3 or 5-mile course that allows participants to walk or run while following a designated course through the village of Frederic. Cancer survivors, families, friends and others affected by cancer celebrate life while raising funds to find a cure and help cancer patients.

The kickoff is on Tuesday, March 20, at 5:30 p.m., at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in the downstairs dining room. It is a great way to learn more about the event and how to get involved. The kickoff provides registration forms and information for team captains, team members and interested community members about the

walk and the ACS. “I got involved with Frederic Area Run/Walk Finish Line because it is a way for me to show my support to the cancer survivors in the area,” said Elvira Schmidt, chair of the Run/Walk planning committee. “The ACS Run/Walk is also a great way to get together with coworkers, family or friends and help bring us closer to the ultimate finish line: a cure for cancer.”

The ACS Run/Walk is a pledge-based noncompetitive walk/run and awareness event where everyone, including cancer survivors, his or her families and friends can celebrate the reality that cancer can be beaten. The event attracts teams and individuals from the community; participants pay an entry fee and

Vendor space available at Expo

ST. CROIX FALLS - The 2007 Home and Business Expo, formerly known as the Winter Expo or Business Expo will be held Saturday, March 24,, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the SCF High School gym.

“This event is free to the public and is a great way to market products or services

and network with others in the business community,” notes a press release from the St. Croix Falls Chamber of Commerce. Vendor space is available.

Please call the chamber office for more information or an application at 715-4833580. - submitted

collect pledges to walk or run along a course traveling through their community. Participants are able to begin the walk at the same time with a designated start and finish line.

The volunteer planning committee’s goal for this year is to increase the number of participants and raise more money than the $17,494.50 raised last year.

Funds raised for the ACS Run/Walk are used for cancer research, education, advocacy and service programs. This year’s

event is sponsored by Larsen Auto Centers and the Amery Regional Medical Center.

If you are interested in attending the kickoff, learning more about the ACS Run/Walk or receiving cancer information, call the American Cancer Society 24-hours-a-day at 1-800-ACS-2345, visit the Web site at www.cancer.org, or contact Elvira Schmidt at 715-653-2684 or Shary Shouse at 715-259-4242. – submitted

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

Festival Theatre subscription sale under way ST. CROIX FALLS - Festival Theatre’s 2007 season subscription sale has begun and a special thank-you gift is available to all purchases made by March 31. There are six plays in the theatre series and 10 concerts in the music series during the season ahead.

“Our season subscriptions are sold through a flex pass package that allows for great agility in scheduling your shows,” said Cheryl Pierre, who leads the patron services team at Festival. “Basically, the flex pass works a bit like a coffee card and you can reserve seats far in advance or just days or hours before a show – as long as seats are still available!”

The music series was announced recently and the the-

atre series includes “Barefoot in the Park” by Neil Simon, “Moonlight & Magnolias” by Ron Hutchinson, and the musical “Quilters” on tour from StageNorth.

In addition, “Talley’s Folly” by Lanford Wilson, “Foxfire” by Hume Cronyn, and two Christmas shows are coming up during 2007. You will find a full lineup of shows and dates in the 2007 season brochure or on the Festival Theatre Web site at www.festivaltheatre.org.

Flex pass packages are available bundled with either six seats or 10 seats with savings up to 35 percent off the single ticket price of $22.50 for plays and $20 to $30 for concerts. Packages range in price from $105 to $185. For those who purchase flex passes by March 31,

Grand View College choir to perform locally LUCK – The Grand View College Choir from Des Moines, Iowa, will be performing at 3 p.m., on Sunday, March 18, at West Denmark Lutheran Church in Luck, as part of its spring tour through the Midwestern United States and Canada.

The tour program consists of choral works from the 13th century, including Perspice Christicola, one of the earliest examples of the polyphonic art, to the present.

Composers whose works will be presented include several from the Midwest: Howard Hanson, Stephen Paulua, Dale Grotenjuis, William Billings, Alice Jordan and arrangements by Daniel Kallman, Richard Lakey

and a couple of the Grand View College choir members.

Dr. Kathryn Pohlmann Duffy is chair of the Grand View College music department and director of the choir. She holds degrees from Wartburg College, Waverly, Iowa; Kansas State University and the University of Chicago, where she earned her Ph.D. in musicology.

In 2005, Duffy led the choir on its first European tour to Denmark and Germany.

Grand View College, with a student body of approximately 1,750, is a four-year, liberal arts college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, located in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa. – submitted

a complimentary restaurant discount card valued at $40 is included. With eight participating restaurants, the discount provides one visit to each restaurant and a “buy one entrée, get $5 off the second entrée” promotion.

To receive a 2007 season brochure, stop in at Festival Theatre or request on by phone or e-mail. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls at 210 North Washington Street. For more information, to order tickets or join the Festival Theatre mailing list, call 715-483-3387 or 888-887-6002. You may also send an email to info@festivaltheatre.org. - from Festival Theatre

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Lions Club buys books for kids SIREN – The Siren Lions Club again bought a book for all Siren students in Early childhood through sixth grade at the library club’s Scholastic book fair. After the 2001 tornado, the Siren Lions club helped students who lost their books in the tornado rebuild

their book collections at home.

Over the years, the program has expanded to include all elementary students. Books for kids is one of the many community programs funded by Siren Lions Club. – Sherill Summer

Marcus Morris and Michael Baier from the library club work the fair. All proceeds from the fair aid Siren’s school library.

Second-graders Eayziah Taylor, Logan Grey and Abby Good look for the right book to take home from the book fair, compliments of Siren’s Lions Club.

Photos by Sherill Summer

These fourth-graders from Mrs. Tinman’s class show off their free books. Shown are (L to R): Kody Pettis, Sydni Schultz, Jacob Reh and Whitney Plaster.

Second-graders Riley Anderson, Sydney Lamson, Patty Close and Autumn Tinman with the books they picked out at the book fair.

Mrs. Johnson’s sixth-grade class looks for books.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

Webster Snowball king and queen chosen

The court for Webster’s Snowball Dance back row (L to R): Justin Hughes, Ben Ries, Gregory Stanton, Paul Olesen, Kevin Ingalls. Front Row (L to R): Chelsie Benson, Sarah Schowalter, Nikki Roedl, Amy French, Samantha Bump. There was too much snow to hold the snowball dance on Friday, March 2, so the dance was held one week later, on March 9. – Photos submitted

The Webster Snowball royalty for 2007 are Queen Nikki Roedl and King Gregory Stanton.

Luck Elmentary students jump for the “Heart” of it LUCK – Thirty-eight Luck students in grades three through six spent a large part of March 7 and 8 jumping at the annual Jump Rope for Heart event at Luck Elementary School. On March 7 and 8, there were lots of hearts and feet generating energy to raise money for the American Heart Association. This year’s jump was done in honor of Kylie Rich, a Luck elementary student who is recovering from heart surgery earlier this school year. A total of $2,931.25 was earned through the 2007 event for use by the American Heart Association. During the previous 23 years, the students at Luck Elementary raised over $74,000 through this annual event.

Before the event, the students went throughout the community and asked for pledges of sponsorship. Each of them then put their hearts and feet into generating energy while jumping for 30 minutes each and raising money for the American Heart Association. Participating students were awarded prizes for the amount of pledges they collected by the Jump Rope for Heart Program, sponsored by the AHA. All the money collected at the local level was sent to the AHA for the research of heart disease and other complications of the heart.

Many thanks go out to all who helped the students in their fight against heart disease. Congratulations to these students on all of their efforts! $5-14 in donations: Jeffrey Hacken (prize earned = mini sports bottle). $15-29 in donations: Alaura Lemieux, Katie Pfaff, Jenni Holdt and Amanda Richey (prizes earned = speed rope, mini sports bottle).

Luck students gather after jumping to raise money for the American Heart Association during the Jump Rope for Heart event on March 7 and 8. $30-49 in donations: Reilly Giller, Jes Pedersen, Krystal Zuniga, Jacquelyn LaDuke, Emma Pedersen and Larissa Succo (light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle). $50-74 in donations: Paul Byl, Kalley Lunsmann, Taylor Webb, Taylor Juleen, Sarah Huro, Jade Schallenberger and Brittany Donald (T-shirt, light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle). $75-124 in donations: Anna Christensen, Sarah Schaar, Christopher Pouliot, Farrah Welch, Connelly Helms,

Chasta Giller, Maddie Joy, and Emma Pedersen jump rope during the Luck School Jump Rope for Heart event on March 7 and 8. – Photos submitted

This year Luck students donated the money they raised for Jump Rope for Heart to the American Heart Association in honor of Kylie Rich, a Luck sixthgrader, who had heart surgery this fall. Kylie is pictured here with the three top money-earners, Franki Wilkinson ($150), Alex Grant ($300) and Steven Holdt ($200).

Darian Ogilvie, Alicia Sund, Dylan Skow, Trent Strapon, Maddie Everson, Logan Hibbs, Noah Mortel, Madeline Joy, Whitney Sorenson, Adrian Spores and Ryan Skow (voice changer, T-shirt, light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle). $125-199 in donations: Sean Haasnoot and Frankie Wilkinson (stunt copter, voice changer, T-shirt, light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle). $200-299 in donations: Steven Holdt

(swim radio, stunt copter, voice changer, T-shirt, light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle). $300 in donations: Alex Grant (Knock-out hockey, swim radio, stunt copter, voice changer, T-shirt, light propeller, speed rope, mini sports bottle).

The Jump Rope for Heart project at Luck was organized by phy. ed. teacher Sheila Brom with the help of third-grade teacher Sue Wallin. – submitted

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

4-H ensemble entertains Rowdy Red Hat Mamas LUCK – The Bone Lake Beavers 4H musical ensemble entertained the Rowdy Red Hat Mamas on Tuesday, March 6, at the Frederic Sunrise Apartments.

The Red Hatters were gathered in celebration of their group’s fourth year as members of the Red Hat Society, and to celebrate Leona Larson’s 85th birthday.

Queen Linda Glenn invited the 4-H group to entertain the Red Hatters, so that the girls would have an opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, prior to their next 4H competition.

The musical ensemble was formed in early January, to put together an entry for the Polk County 4-H Talent Explosion. The ensemble has practiced two and three times a week under the direction of Crystal Bradwell, of Bone Lake.

Their presentation Songs of The Country, includes renditions of “Thank God I’m a Country Girl,” “The Milk Song,”

Members of the Bone Lake Beavers 4H group (not in any order): Samantha Wilkinson, Franki Glenn, Jessica Wilkinson, Alix Wilkinson, Sammie Shallenberger, Sierra Hulett, Taylor Hansen and Jessica Mattson. Not shown: Ariane Mattson and Hope Peterson.

Leona Larsen

“Grandpa, Tell Me The Rooster Story,” and “Honky Tonk BeDonkaDonk.”

The girls, ages 8 years to 17 years, worked together to figure out what songs to sing, found the music, and then created the routines to accompany the

songs. The revised words for “Honky Tonk” were written by Sharon Peterson, and they looked to their 4-H camping experiences, to find “The Milk Song,” and the “Rooster Story.” Costuming was a natural for the group. They are all coun-

try girls.

The Bone Lake Beavers will take their show on the road, to compete at the District Talent Explosion on Saturday, March 17, in Boyceville. – submitted

Back row (L to R): Founding Queen Mother, Linda Glenn, Janice Nelson, Patty Richert, Dianna Tendrup, Avis Mabrey, Char Goeman, Betty Fenton, Robin Johnson, Joan Paar, Ardyce Fornengo and Frances Kurkowski. Front (L to R): Sylvia Hanson, Sharon Marz, Leona Larsen, Darlene Jensen and Carol Park-Coen.

OMC hosts 5K run/walk OSCEOLA – Start your summer running season with the Healthy Heart 5K Run/Walk in Osceola. The event is Saturday, April 21.

The Healthy Heart Run/Walk will wind through the community of Osceola starting at the high school. Individuals, families and teams are invited to participate.

“This event will be a fun and healthy way to get your spring fitness program in gear,” according to Rob Dybvig, MD,

medical director at Osceola Medical Center. “Whether you’re a runner or walker, this event is a great milestone leading into your spring and summer seasons.”

The run/walk is hosted by Osceola Medical Center, a critical care hospital and clinic along the St. Croix River in Osceola. It is sponsored by HealthPartners, St. Croix Orthopaedics, St. Croix Valley Surgical, St. Paul Radiology and Osceola Medical Center health care

providers.

Registration starts at 7 a.m.; the race starts at 8:30 a.m. Awards will be presented at about 9:30 a.m. Entry fees are $15 by April 6 and $18 after April 6 and on race day.

Proceeds of the event will go to the Osceola Medical Center Capital Campaign, which is raising money for a new health care facility. The facility will be part of a health care campus that will include a hospital, clinic, senior living and

a future YMCA facility. Expanded plans also call for hiking trails and sports fields. Groundbreaking on this new campus is this spring.

More information and registration material for the Healthy Heart Run/Walk is available at www.osceolamedicalcenter.com or by calling 715294-5736. - submitted

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Unity presents “Night of the Living Beauty Pageant”

Some of Unity High School seniors have been performing with the theater arts program for four years with Sue Duerkop as director. Seniors performing Friday night (L to R) were: Laura Roettger, Liza Skalicky, Zach Lehmann, Shila Meyer, Tiffany Hallin, Duerkop, Jimmy Zahler, Paige Andrews, Matt Jensen and Vicki Weiser.

Photos by Jeanne Alling

Miss Junior Venus was crowned at the end of Unity’s recent performance of “Night of the Living Beauty Pageant.” Vicki Weiser won the title.

The judges for “Night of the Living Beauty Pageant” were getting briefed during Unity High School’s recent theater arts performance. Cast members included: Penny Loafer (Julia Larsen), Shari (Shila Meyer), Steve (Justin Anderson and Rose Bowl (Johanna Alling). These beauty school dropouts from the diner were to be judges in the Miss Junior Venus Pageant scam.

“We’re contestants too,” shouted Justin Anderson, Jake Davidson, and Elliot St. Amand as they were trying to disguise themselves from the villains during Unity’s recent theater arts performance. The “Night of the Living Beauty Pageant” was directed by Sue Duerkop.

Fingers (Dan Livingston) and Cuddles (Laura Roettger) were concerned about their boss Knuckles (not pictured, played by Ethan Schmidt) during the recent Unity High School perfomance of “Night of the Living Beauty Pagent.”

Jennifer McMeekin, Ms. Hoopway and Maddie Anderson, the cleaning lady, were caught backstage of the backstage in Unity’s recent theater arts performance.

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

EDUCATION VIBRATIONS Siren prekindergarten program held SIREN – The Siren prekindergarten program has had lots of fun things going on in their class. They had a visit from the Cat and The Hat for their family night. They had a visit from Julie Steiner from public heath, come talk to them about keeping their teeth healthy. They also had a Christy Rakness from Xavier College come talk to them about her trip to India. She had them try some snacks from India and showed them pictures.

She gave Mrs. Hoehne a gift from India. submitted

Academic news NORTHFIELD, Minn. – James May, provost and dean of St. Olaf College, has announced the Evan Hall of Luck has been named to the St. Olaf dean’s list for the fall semester of 2006-2007.

Hall is a St. Olaf sophomore student.

The dean’s list recognizes St. Olaf students with semester grade-point aver-

ages of 3.75 or higher on a 4-point scale.

– submitted ••• Joshua M. Larson, Webster, was one of 21 students at UW-River Falls to receive bachelor’s degrees following the January term. Larson earned a degree in business administration. – submitted

Wisconsin Interstate Park news

ST. CROIX FALLS – 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 clothing 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. – from Interstate Park

UW-Superior invites students to open house SUPERIOR - High school students who are thinking about college are invited to visit the University of Wisconsin-Superior on Sunday, April 22, for its special Spring Open House.

Spring Open House at UW-Superior runs from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. To register, call 715-394-8230 or go online to www.uwsuper.edu/admissions.

UW-Superior is Wisconsin’s Leading

Public Liberal Arts College, preparing students for lifelong learning and offering solid career preparation. A member of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges, UW-Superior offers more than 30 undergraduate academic programs as well as graduate, continuing education and distance learning programs. – from UW-Superior

WITC students take 22 awards at state

NEW RICHMOND – Six students from Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College competed in Madison March 13 at the 2007 Business Professionals of America Spring Leadership Conference, and each placed to compete at the National Leadership Conference in New York City in May. Many area businesses have generously supported the group’s fundraising activities with cash and merchandise donations. The group is planning a silent auction in April to help fund its trip to the National Lead-

ership Conference in New York City in May. Anyone interested in helping these students with donations should call their advisor, WITC instructor Tom Pedersen, at 715-246-6561, ext 4331.

Through involvement in BPA, students build lasting relationships with community business circles and have opportunities for personal and professional growth, travel and new experiences.

Members participate in leadership development, activities, workshops and conferences. – from WITC

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

OBITUARIES Rodger A. Erickson Rodger Allen Erickson, died March 8, 2007, at his home in the town of Dewey, Burnett County, with his loved ones by his side.

Rodger courageously battled lung cancer for over three years.

He was 63 years old.

He was born Oct. 16, 1943, to Rudolph and Dorothy (Heisterkamp) Erickson in Washburn County, Evergreen Township. He graduated from Spooner High School in 1961. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Superior, was an active member of the FEX Fraternity and graduated in 1968 with a degree in elementary education and taught for several years. He was employed by the U. S. Post Office both in Superior and Spooner for many years.

Before retiring, he completed classes in master gardening. He then pursued his lifelong dream and passion to provide quality produce for less. He and his wife and best friend, Jan, farmed four acres of vegetable gardens specializing in fall produce and sold fresh vegetables in the community.

Rodger was a member of the Spooner Wesleyan Church. He was very devoted to his church, family, friends and neighbors. Rodger married Janet Stellrecht, a childhood friend of the family, in May of 2003.

Rodger was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Karen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jan; son Travis Erickson, Duluth, Minn.; stepdaughters Shelly (Bob) Schintz, Hutchinson, Minn., and Lisa (Scott) Ledman, Oakdale, Minn., Alyssa (Gene) Schreder, Paynesville, Minn.; stepsons John (Adrianna) Haugh, Crum, Texas, Brad (Jen) Kaiser, Plover; brother Rudy (Martha) Erickson, Wilson; sister Sandy Rathmann, Brooklyn Park, Minn.; brother Ron (Bernie) Erickson, Greensboro, N.C.; mother-in-law Elsie Stellrecht, Shell Lake; and many nieces and nephews and step-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Thursday, March 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home and funeral services will be Friday, March 16, 11 a.m., at Spooner Wesleyan Church with Pastors Ronald Gormong and James Rhein officiants. Music will be provided by Nancy, Eva, Angela, Hannah and Lois Stellrecht accompanied by pianist Mary Stellrecht. Spring interment will take place in the Spooner Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to Hearts of Gold, American Cancer Society or charity of your choice.

The Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home, Spooner, was entrusted with arrangements.

Carmen Lucille (Avery) Fahrendorff Carmen Lucille (Avery) Fahrendorff, age 92, died March 2, 2007, at St. Croix Falls Hospital.

Carmen was born in Milltown, on March 22, 1914, to Miles and Nellie Avery. She married Ted Fahrendorff, and to them 10 children were born. She had 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was a lifetime member of the Milltown Lutheran Church. She will always be remembered for her strong faith especially during difficult times in her life, and also for her deep love for her family and special friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ted; twin infant sons; daughter, Anita; sons, Frank and Roland.

She is survived by children, Jack, Doug (Judy), Claire (Don), Larmie, and Nancy (Jim) along with extended family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at the Milltown Lutheran Church on Friday, March 16, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held one hour before the service at the church with luncheon to follow. The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck, was entrusted with arrangements.

Jane K. Westlund

Anita Marie Althoff Beckenbaugh Anita Marie (Althoff) Beckenbaugh, 84, a resident of Webster and formerly of Bettendorf, Iowa, died on Wednesday, March 7, 2007, at the Rice Lake Convalescent Center in Rice Lake.

She was born June 29, 1922, in McHenry, Ill., the daughter of Louis and Frances (Brueggemann) Althoff.

On March 11, 1944, she was united in marriage to Clinton Walter “Mike” Beckenbaugh in Chicago, Ill. He preceded her in death on June 16, 1984.

Anita was a longtime secretary for the Hit & Miss Bowling League in Bettendorf. She was very active, loved to walk, swim, bowl, play tennis, volleyball and fish.

An excellent seamstress, she worked out of her home doing alterations and pattern work. She also loved to knit and crochet, creating many afghans, scarves and sweaters for her family.

Anita was an animal lover, having many pets through the years and loving them all dearly.

Those left to honor her memory include her children and their spouses, Camille and Jerry Schoeberl of Princeton, Iowa, Ronald and Elaine Beckenbaugh of Davenport, Iowa, Michael “Mick” and Ludi Beckenbaugh of Janesville, Lynn Beckenbaugh and Diane Whannel of Waterloo, Iowa, and Scot and Linda Hanson Beckenbaugh of Indianola, Iowa; her grandchildren, Fritz Knapper, Michele Simpson, Jennifer Kuehl, Rhonda Nelson, Jason Beckenbaugh, Brennan Beckenbaugh, Hilary Nauholz and Hayley McGuire; 11 greatgrandchildren; and her special friend, Mort Beckman of Webster.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, brother and three sisters.

Her funeral service was held Monday, March 12, 2007, at the McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Chapel, Bettendorf. Burial will be in the Rock Island National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Anita’s obituary at www.McGinnisChambers.com.

Jane K. Westlund, 95, a resident of Siren, formerly of Minnetonka, Minn., died March 3, 2007, at the home of her daughter in Siren.

Jane was a past member of the Minnetonka Baptist Church and a member of the Falun Baptist Church in Falun. Jane was active in the American Red Cross, Youth for Christ and the American Swedish Institute.

She had been a Sunday school teacher for many years.

She was a longtime member of the Minnetonka Camera Club and the National Photo Association.

Jane was preceded in death by her first husband, Carl H. Westlund; and her second husband, Alfred Engdahl; and daughter, Barbara Bowman.

Jane is survived by her daughter, Cynthia (Steven) Thomas of Siren; and son, Mark Westlund of Minnesota; five grandchildren, Kent Wahlen, Kerry (Dr. Michael) Sherman, Robert (Bonnie) Bowman, Alison Bowman and Kate Westlund; three great-grandchildren, Brittaney (Erik) Rank, Brigitte Sherman and Ross Bowman; two great-great-grandchildren, Emma Jane Rank and Evan Michael Rank; one niece, Carol Wilson; and three nephews, Tom (Loretta) Chase, Jay Chase and Dennis (Nola) Chase.

Graveside services will be Friday, March 9, at 10 a.m.

Kathleen Marie Andersen, Webat Sunset Memorial Park in St. Anthony, Minn. Memo- ster, died March 10, 2007. rials are preferred to Regional Hospice, 2101 Beaver St., She was born to James and Ashland, WI 54806.

Marie Merry on July 25, 1935, in The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was St. Paul, Minn. entrusted with arrangements.

She is survived by her husband, Ken, husband of 49 years; her five children and their spouses, Steve (Tammy), Sheila (Dave), Sarah Alyce C. Mueller, 85, of St. Croix Falls, died March 9, (Jim), Mark (Michelle) and Mon2007, at the United Pioneer Nursing in Luck. ica (Jeff); sister, Jeanne Lacy; 12 Alyce was born Dec. 23, 1921, in St. Croix Falls to grandchildren, Jessica Garcia, Nolan Pavek, Rachel William and Marie (Cathimer) Anderson. She married Garcia, Grace Pavek, Sophie Kathleen Pavek, Alyssa Burdette F. Mueller on Nov. 12, 1942. They were mar- Chayer, Elizabeth Atneosen, Brian Atneosen, Abby Anried for 65 years, to this union two children were born, dersen, Zachary Andersen, Ella Andersen and Hannah a daughter, Jennifer, and a son, William.

Andersen; great-grandchild, Hailey Kathleen Garcia.

Alyce suffered from a prolonged illness for the last 13 Kathleen was preceded in death by infant grandson years, and she was a resident of the Pioneer Home until Matthew. her death.

Kathleen’s life was filled with the love of her family, She is survived by her husband; daughter, Jennifer friends and all who knew her. She was devoted in faith, (Tom) McClure and son, William; grandchildren, she served God through her work at Our Lady of PerCharles (Jody) McClure, Katie McClure and Tom Mc- petual Help Catholic Church in Danbury. Kathleen was Clure; great-granddaughters, Abby and Claire McClure. dedicated to all God’s creatures serving as a volunteer Vistation will be held Friday, March 16, at the Edling for the Burnett County Humane Society.

Funeral Home, St. Croix Falls and the family will have Visitation will be held Wednesday, March 14, 5-8 p.m. a private graveside burial in the spring at the St. Croix at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster. Mass Cemetery, St. Croix Falls. of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Thursday, March 15 The Edling Funeral Home, St. Croix Falls, was en- with visitation one hour prior to Mass at Our Lady of trusted with arrangements.

Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Danbury. Lunch will follow Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Webster. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights, Minn. Memorials to donor’s choice or to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Danbury.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Kathleen Marie Andersen

Alyce C. Mueller

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

OBITUARIES

Larry Vicker Kurtz

Herman Engebretson

Norman Meinke

Larry Vicker Kurtz died March 8, 2007, in St. Croix Falls. He was 53.

Larry was born June 6, 1953, to Elmer and Alice Kurtz. He was baptized and confirmed at First Lutheran Church in Cushing, and graduated from St. Croix Falls High School in 1971.

Larry grew up in the Eureka Center area. When Larry was a senior in high school, he was involved in an auto accident that left him disabled and took his sister Sandra’s life.

In recent years Larry battled cancer and during his recovery, moved into Good Samaritan Home in St. Croix Falls, where he lived until his death. Larry became the unofficial greeter at the home and could always be counted on to be sitting by the front door with a smile and greeting.

Larry was preceded in death by both sets of grandparents; sister, Sandra and brother, Dennis.

He is survived by his parents; brother Ron (Cathy); sister Sherry (John) Tewalt; sister-in-law Jeanie Kurtz; nephews Jeff Tewalt, Jay (Kendra) Kurtz; nieces Julie (Greg) Durushia, Jodi Kurtz and Kari (Dave) Vadner; three great-nieces and one great-nephew.

Funeral services were held on Monday, March 12, at First Lutheran Church, Cushing. Interment was at Cushing Cemetery.

The Edling Funeral Home, St. Croix Falls, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Herman Engebretson, age 102, of Janesville, died on Monday, March 5, 2007, at his home.

He was born in Webster, on October 21, 1904, son of the late Amund and Anne (Amundson) Engebretson. Herman married Alice Page in September of 1935 in Illinois. She preceded him in death on June 11, 1999.

Herman moved to Janesville in 1930 and worked for over 40 years as the sexton at Oak Hill Cemetery, retiring in 1977. Herman was a very hardworking gentleman and a private person, who loved and cared for his wife until her passing. His keen memory and his many life experiences, allowed Herman to share family history with others. His strength and perseverance kept him going for many years, until his health declined recently.

He is survived by his 104-year-old sister: Palma Miller of Bonita, Calif.; several nieces, nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; and special relatives who watched over Herman; Elizabeth Geiger of Janesville and Richard Hovland of Janesville. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by four brothers and six sisters.

Funeral Services were held Thursday, March 8, at the Whitcomb – Lynch – Albrecht Funeral Home, Janesville, with Chaplain Steve Hayes, of HospiceCare, Inc. officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Memorials may be made in Herman’s name to HospiceCare, Inc.

Norman Meinke, age 80, of Alexandria, Minn., died Thursday, March 8, 2007, at the KnuteNelson Memorial Home in Alexandria, Minn.

Norman Frederick Meinke was born on Oct. 19, 1926, in Somerset, to Carl and Emilia (Diethart) Meinke. He grew up and attended school in Somerset. Norman served his country as a fireman first class in the United States Navy during WW II. He served on the USS LSM74, the USS Kershaw and the USS Sanborn. He received the WW II Victory ribbon and the American Area Ribbon and was honorably discharged in August of 1951. After he returned from the service, he moved to Wadena, Minn., where he found work as a taxi driver. Norman married Deloris Ceaser on Oct. 24, 1947, and they returned to live in Somerset and tried farming for a short time. Norman also did mechanic work for a garage and did construction jobs on the side. Eventually Norman, or “Butch” as he was called, took a job as a truck driver for Dahlen Transport. He delivered fuel to Super America gas stations all over Minnesota. He worked for Dahlen for over 30 years and had an absolutely clean driving record without any accidents. During this time, Butch was married to Mary Ann Zins. After he retired, Butch enjoyed wintering down South. He made his home in Dairyland, to be near his brother, Howard.

When he began to have some health problems, he moved to Alexandria, Minn.

Butch was a member of the Somerset American Legion. He loved airplanes and flying and attended air shows across the Midwest. When he had to keep his feet on the ground, he found his Harley a nice diversion to flying. Butch was an animal lover, having a special affection for dogs, especially his beloved dog, Rocky. He liked to go hunting and fishing and enjoyed being outdoors.

Norman is survived by his children, Sally (Steven) Eckhoff of Henning, Minn., Julie Denny of Alexandria, Minn., Daniel Meinke of Nevada City, Calif., Kevin (Louise) Meinke of Lake Mills, Theresa (Mike) Pietenpol of St. Paul, Minn., Dennis (Kathy) Meinke of Osceola, and Emily Meinke of St. Paul, Minn.; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Evelyn Kriesel of Inver Grove Heights, Minn., JoAnn (Gerk) Gerlach of Osceola and Marilyn (Chuck) Zinn of Naples, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Pat Meinke of Wisconsin.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a son, Terry, who died only six days before him; a brother, Howard Meinke; and two grandchildren, Tim and Tammy Nyhus.

Funeral services were held Monday, March 12, at the Roy-Hetland Funeral Chapel in Osakis with the Rev. Lois Burkart officiating. Honorary bearers were the members of the Osakis VFW Post #7902 Honor Guard.

Before interment at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minn., a memorial service was also held for Butch in Somerset.

The Roy-Hetland Funeral Home in Osakis, Minn., was entrusted with arrangements.

EDLING FUNERALHOME 201 N. Adams St. St. Croix Falls, WI (715) 483-3141

E

EDLING TAYLOR FUNERALHOME 387 State Rd. 70 Grantsburg, WI (715) 463-2994

Charlotte Marie (Jackson) Selander Charlotte Marie (Jackson) Selander, 80, a resident of Grantsburg, died March 5, 2007, at the Continuing Care Center in Grantsburg.

She was born to Theodore and Mabel Jackson on Feb. 16, 1927, in St. Paul, Minn. She moved to Grantsburg with her family in 1942 and lived on the family dairy farm. She graduated from Grantsburg High School in 1944 and worked at the First Bank of Grantsburg. Charlotte married Allen Selander on June 8, 1957. Charlotte worked with Allen on the Selander family dairy farm.

In the 1960s, Allen and Charlotte started Allen Selander Construction, Inc. In 1971, they started Bass Lake Lumber; they took great pride in their business and serving the local community. She retired in 1992. She enjoyed traveling with her family, activities with close friends and being part of the church family at Bethany.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband; parents and brother, Earl.

She is survived by her children, Lynn (Gary) Olby, Dean Selander and Craig Selander; grandchildren, Jennifer and Jason Selander, Jennifer (Chad) McKnight, and Jessica Nelson; great-grandchildren, Kyler and Kailey McKnight and Marisa, Melana and Brenton Nelson; many relatives and special friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 10, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Branstad with Pastor Jay Ticknor officiating. Music was provided by Erin Odegard. Interment was held at the Riverside Cemetery in Grantsburg. Casket bearers were Doyle Christian, Paul Hedlund, Scott Erickson, Geoff Bohn, Jim Melin and David Wicklund.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Allen E. Warden Allen E. Warden, 69, a resident of Webster, died March 4, 2007, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

Al was born Nov. 30, 1937, in Grantsburg to Harry and Helen (Anderson) Warden. Al worked at Control Data in Arden Hills, Minn., for 15 years. He owned/operated the Montgomery Ward Agency in Webster for 10 years. Al also worked at Wayne’s IGA as a manager for 10 years and the Ace Hardware for three years as a clerk. Al enjoyed reading, gardening, fishing, bowling and being in Hawaii.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Helen Warden.

Al is survived by his wife, Karen, of Webster; daughters, Michelle Hophan of Webb Lake and Melissa Warden of Cape Cod, Mass.; grandchildren, Matthew Hophan and Megan Hophan; sisters, Kay (Bob) Grote of Blaine, Minn., Joan Odegard of Pine City, Minn.; brothers, Kent (Ruth) Warden of Mound, Minn., and Bob (Robin) Warden of Lake Kiowa, Texas. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held Saturday, March 10, at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster with Tom Kelby officiating. Music was provided by Sarah Kelby. Military honors were accorded by the Otis Taylor American Legion Post 96 and the Wisconsin State Honor Program, Spooner Detachment. Honorary casket bearers were Bob Burford, Roderick Hopkins, Terry Burford, Jim Burford, Bud Vasas and Roger Tollander.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Correction The following paragraph for the Noah Bibeau obituary should have read: Noah is survived by his brother, Elmer James Bibeau (Patricia) and family of Frederic; son, Henry Thomas (Marge) and granddaughter, Julie, of Neola, Iowa; son, Richard Dean (Darla) of Frederic; other grandchildren, Craig of Coon Rapids, Minn., Amy of Minneapolis, Minn., Kayla of Luck, Susan of Big Lake; great-grandchildren, Zachary Petersen and Ashley Moen; numerous nieces and nephews.

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

CHURCH NEWS Hold on!

The wind was so strong during our recent blizzard—69 mph in Duluth—that some people had a hard time standing in it. Imagine being out in such a wind for a prolonged time: nothing to hold onto, straining forward against the wind Sally Bair or backward with it, concentrating intensely on keeping upright.

I recently read that people are PERSPECTIVES born with a natural fear of falling.

Perhaps you’ve experienced an infant flailing his or her arms to keep steady. Perhaps you’ve used a cane, walking pole, or other device to keep yourself from falling on the ice, on a mountain, or on uneven terrain. For all of us, life can be a challenge to keep from falling.

When we face problems of any kind, we try to hold onto something—sometimes anything or anyone we can find. Some of the things we cling to aren’t good for us. Some pull us down faster than the wind. Others drag us along, keeping us from standing firm.

Our spiritual lives are affected by what and to whom we cling. If we face problems, we want to cling to something with substance and strength, for we will be using our most intense concentration to keep from falling. Our goal as followers of Christ should be to “Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made a good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12) The word fight, in Greek, means to agonize or to intensely struggle.

Just as Christ helps us fight our everyday problems, sins, and bad habits, he also helps us stand in the face of the enemies of the Gospel. He is faithful in holding us up. Many nonbelievers are taught that Christians use their faith in Christ as a crutch. If that is true, what better crutch could we find?

The writer of Hebrews 10:23 says we should “…hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Let’s hold onto Christ, the Faithful One. Lord, as we share our faith with others and love our enemies, help us not to back down but to persevere to the end.

Thank you for the promised prize of eternal life and for your unending provision, peace, and love in this life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

ETERNAL

OBITUARIES Charles William Hagen Charles (Chuck) William Hagen, 68, of Webster, died Wednesday, March 7, 2007, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, Minn.

Chuck was born on July 2, 1938 in Clinton, Iowa, son of William and Charlyn (McClary) Hagen. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1956. He served four years with the United States Air Force. He received his bachelor of arts degree from Winona (Minnesota) State Teacher’s College. His employment included teaching and coaching in Elkader and Belmont, Wisconsin. He worked for various manufacturing industries such as Echlin, Parker, Snyder General and retired from Artisans Screen Printing and Embroidery in May 2001.

Chuck enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. He also was an avid fisherman and enjoyed designing fishing lures in his workshop and collecting fishing equipment.

Chuck is survived by his loving wife, June; his “three lovelies” Christi (Greg) Meyer, Lori (Mike) Laqua, Shari (Brian) Louis and Michelle (Chip) Schreader and Betsy Gomez; grandchildren, Chad, Heidi and Derik Meyer, Kayla, Corey and Krysta Laqua, Spencer Louis, Ethan, Matthew and Natalie Schreader; childhood friend, Ron Cronacher; former wife, Diana Hallenbeck; and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and several aunts and uncles.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, March 11, 2007, at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Siren, with Pastor Carl Heidel officiating. Honorable pallbearers included sons-in-law and grandsons.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Siren, was entrusted with arrangements.

What’s in a Name?

of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ diI recently came across a number of intervided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye esting quotations regarding the name Chrisbaptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians tian. I thought that I should share them and 1:12-13) give others the opportunity to read them: • Luke, the inspired writer of Acts: “…and • Henry Ward Beecher (Presbyterian minthe disciples were called Christians first in ister): “Let me speak in the language of Antioch.” (Acts 11:26) heaven and call you Christians.”

When we choose to wear a name that repreGarret • Albert Barnes (Methodist commentator): sents our religious belief, we ought to do as Derouin the inspired writer Peter recommended. We “These divisions should be merged into the holy name Christian.” should be willing to suffer for it, we should THE • Martin Luther (founder of the Lutheran not be ashamed of it and most of all we should church): “I pray you leave my name alone. PREACHER’S make sure it glorifies God and not someone Do not call yourselves Lutherans, but Chriselse. (1 Peter 4:16) “…if any man suffer as a tians.”

Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him • John Wesley (founder of the Methodist glorify God on this behalf.” church): “I wish the name Methodist might never be If readers have questions or simply wish to know mentioned again, but lost in eternal oblivion.” more about the Church of Christ, we invite you to call • Charles Spurgeon (famous Baptist preacher): “I 715-866-7157 or stop by the church building at 7425 say of the Baptist name, let it perish, but let Christ’s W. Birch St. in Webster. Office hours are Tuesdays name last forever. I look forward with pleasure to the through Fridays 9 a.m.-noon. Sunday Bible class beday when there will not be a Baptist living.” gins at 9:30 a.m., Worship is at 10:30 a.m. and Wednes• Paul, the apostle: “Now this I say, that every one day evening class is at 7 p.m.

PEN

Pilgrim Lutheran Church presents Children’s Bible FREDERIC - During the 10 a.m. worship services this past Sunday, a special Children’s Bible was presented to Anders Geisen.

All second-graders will be presented their Bibles during worship on Sunday, April 29, as they need their own Bibles when they go to Bible camp during the summer. The Geisen family is moving to Washburn, and though they will be missed, they are wished God’s blessings on their new journey of life.

Come worship with Pilgrim Lutheran during this

Lenten season. Join them at 5:30 each Wednesday evening – March 14, 21 and 28 for homemade soup and sandwich with a dessert and services begin at 6:30.

They are following Christ’s journey to the cross.

For more information about up-and-coming events at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, go to the Web site at www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.com or call the church office at 327-8012. - submitted

Bethany supports Daffodil Days SIREN – Bright yellow daffodils were a sign of spring, hope and support for the American Cancer Society at Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren the week. Coordinating the ACS Daffodil Days program was Laura Jensen, who distributed 91 bunches of flowers to congregation members during worship services March 11. The congregation also recognized the third Sunday of Lent with the Gospel lesson from Luke 13:1-9. Together, the congregation prayed, “O God, take us by the hand, forgive us when we fail, lift us when we fall, for we are your children: never forgotten, always forgiven, always loved.” In addition, Bethany celebrated Camp Sunday and registered youth for summer programs at Luther Point Bible Camp. Bethany holds worship services every Sunday at 8 and 10:30 a.m., with fellowship activities and Lenten Soup Suppers for all ages on Wednesday evenings. For more information, call 715-349-5280.– from Bethany Lutheran Church, Siren

Rosemary Novak is to sing at Wolf Creek, St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS - Rosemary Novak will share her music during worship services at Wolf Creek and St.Croix Falls United Methodist Churches on Sunday, March 25. Novak will be joined by musician James White.

A native of Exeland, and now residing in Barron,

Novak delivers classic spirituals with understanding and vocal skill. She has performed in a variety of venues in Northwest Wisconsin.

Services at Wolf Creek are on Sunday at 8:15 a.m. and at St.Croix Falls on Sunday at 10 a.m. - submitted

Ladies Morning Retreat set

Christian women’s meeting set

FREDERIC – The ministry of Ladies Morning Retreat at the Frederic Evangelical Free Church would like to invite all women to come March 16 at 9:15 a.m.

Enjoy fellowship, discussion and reflection on the topic of “Pausing for Perspective” this season of Lent and Easter. Please come for encouragement, support and a fresh spiritual and biblical perspective. Child care is provided. - submitted

TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – The Taylors Falls Christian Women’s Club meeting will be held Monday, March 19 and will be Egg-stra Special. This meeting is a 9:30 a.m. brunch at the Lindstrom Golf Course Gallery Restaurant. The special feature will be Kathy Todd’s Ukrainian Easter eggs. The music will be by Chris Bjorkland, and Paula Zukowski will speak on being “a real fixer-upper.” The cost is $8 inclusive. For reservations/cancellations please call 651-257-1768 or 715-857-5573. – submitted

Quakers to meet reguarly BURNETT COUNTY – A Quaker group is planning regular meetings for worship every other Saturday at Webster.

The meeting will be held at the Northern Pines Friends Worship Group at 11 a.m. at 6020 Peterson Road. Persons may call 866-8802 or 866-7798 for further information.

This listing will be included in the church listings in the future. – submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

CHURCH NEWS

Help your children achieve balance between work and play Q: Can you give us a guideline for how much work children should be given to do?

DR. DOBSON: There should be a healthy balance between work and play. Many farm children of the past had daily chores that made life pretty difficult.

Early in the morning and again after school they would feed the pigs, gather the eggs, milk the cows and bring in the wood. Little time was left for fun, and childhood became a pretty drab experience. That was an extreme position, and I certainly don't favor its return.

Contrast that workaday responsibility with some families today that require nothing of children - not even asking them to take out the trash, water the lawn or feed the cat. Both extremes, as usual, are harmful to the child. The logical middle ground can be found by giving a boy or girl an exposure to responsibility and work, but preserving time for play and fun. The amount of time devoted to each activity should vary with the age of the child, gradually requiring more work as he or she grows older.

••• Q: My 13-year-old daughter has become increasingly lazy over the past couple of years. She lies around the house and will sleep half the day on Saturday. She complains about being tired a lot. Is this typical of early adolescence? How should I deal with it?

DR. DOBSON: It is not uncommon for boys and girls to experience fatigue during the years of puberty.

Their physical resources are being invested in a rapid growth process during that time, leaving less energy for other activities. This period doesn't last very long and is usually followed by the most energetic time of life.

I would first suggest that you schedule your daughter for a routine physical examination to rule out the Dr. James possibility of a more serious explanaDobson tion for her fatigue. If it does turn out to be a phenomenon of puberty, as I suspect, you should "go with the flow." See that she gets plenty of rest and sleep.

This need is often not met because teenagers feel that they shouldn't have to go to bed as early as they did when they were children. Therefore, they stay up too late and then drag through the next day in a state of exhaustion. Surprisingly, a 13- or 14-year-old actually needs more rest than when he or she was 9 or 10, simply because of the acceleration in growth.

Your daughter is turning from a girl to a woman overnight. Some of the physical characteristics you are observing are part of the transformation. Do everything you can to facilitate it.

••• Q: How can parents prepare their younger children for the assault on self-esteem that is almost certain to come in adolescence? That was a tough time for me, and I want it to be easier for my kids.

DR. DOBSON: One important approach is to teach boys and girls valuable skills with which they can

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

compensate in years to come. They can benefit from learning something that will serve as the centerpiece of their self-concept during the difficult years. This would include learning about basketball, tennis, electronics, art, music, or even raising rabbits for fun and profit.

It's not so much what you teach your child. The key is that he or she learn something to feel good about when the whole world seems to be saying, "Who are you and what is your significance as a human being?"

The teenager who has no answer to those questions is left unprotected at a very vulnerable time of life. Developing and honing skills with which to compensate may be one of the most valuable contributions parents can make during the elementary school years. It may even be worth requiring your carefree kid to take lessons, practice, compete, and learn something he or she will not fully appreciate for a few more years.

Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, P.O. Box 444, Colorado Springs, CO. 80903; or www.family.org. Questions and answers are excerpted from "The Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide" 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:

Webster Area Catholic Churches Webster

MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

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MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 29

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MARCH 14, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 31

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Marissa Jensen has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Tim and Stephanie Nelson.

Marissa is a good student and always does her best. She is a good helper to her classmates and teachers. Her favorite subjects are reading and doing science experiments. In her free time, Marissa likes playing T-ball, soccer, jumping on the trampoline and spending time with her family.

April Halverson has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Wesley Halverson and Barbara Grill. April is an A student, on the honor roll and a leader in school activities.

She is very cooperative, polite, has excellent work ethic and is well respected by students and staff. April is in basektball, volleyball and softball. She enjoys biking, hunting and fishing.

Becca Anderson has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daugher of Mary and Craig Anderson. Becca is an excellent student. She has a pleasant personality, is respectful, cooperative and a good school citizen. Becca is involved in basketball, volleyball and track. She enjoys sports, especially basketball and hanging out with friends. She plans to attend college.

Congratulations students!

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Jeret Hibbs has been chosen as Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Nathan and Gail Hibbs. Jeret is an excellent student. He enjoys working with money in math and the accelerated reading program for reading.

His favorite class is phy. ed. He likes playing tag at recess.

Kyle Hunter has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Scott and Nancy Hunter. Kyle is a very pleasant student, enjoys having fun and always wants to do well in his work. He is involved in go-cart racing, bowling, LEAD, basketball, baseball and soccer. Kyle enjoys spending time with his family, watching TV, playing outside and collecting NASCAR cars.

TJ Ball has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week.

He is a senior and the son of Ted and Kris Ball. TJ has been on the honor roll all four years of high school. He is an intelligent, polite, hardworking student. TJ is involved in FFA and works at both Wal-Mart and Dan’s Auto Body in Amery. His is involved in football and wrestling. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, working on cars, snowmobiling and riding motorcycles. He plans to join the Army Rangers and then attend college.

Amie Costello has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in kindergarten and the daughter of John and Dawn Costello.

She has a little sister and brother at home. Her favorite thing to do at school is going out for recess and playing with her friends. At home Amy relaxes and likes to read. Amie is smiley and eager to learn.

SIREN

Austin Piepho has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in fourth grade. Austin enjoys school. He likes to play soccer with his friends during recess. His favorite class is math. Austin’s favorite sport is basketball.

Dakota Mulroy has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. He has been working hard to bring his grades up.

Dakota is very helpful and always willing to run errands. His teacher is proud of the effort Dakota has been putting into his schoolwork.

Kyle Louis has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Kevin and Shannon Louis. Kyle is highly motivated, helpful to students and hardworking. In summer he works part time in construction. Kyle likes to hunt and fish. He plans to attend college. The greatest influence in his life is his mom because she has taught him everything he knows.

Stephanie Melin has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. She has one sister and a dog named Maggie.

Her favorite pastimes are writing, drawing, reading and playing with her dog. Stephanie participates in basketball, volleyball and softball.

Her favorite subject is Spanish.

Steph is a kind-hearted, hardworking girl. She works to her best ability and is always a friend to all.

Steph is also on the honor roll.

Jessica (Jo) Oldenburg was chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week. She is a senior. Jo is a very busy student that is involved in cross country, track, clowns, S-Club, NHS, forensics, the school play, senior class president, student council, volunteering and youth service. Jo really pushes herself to do her very best.

She enjoys running, hanging out with friends and volunteering.

WEBSTER

Lauren Howe has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Howe. Lauren is an accomplished, balanced student athlete who applies a tenacious work ethic towards all her endeavors. She is an accomplished flutist, a successful athlete and a strong leader, with an undeniable confidence and flair.

Lauren has truly earned the respect of her peers, her teacher and her community.

Trent Gustafson has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Kelsey and Erica Gustafson. Trent is always eager to learn, and always has a smile on his face. He is a very caring, helpful and considerate student.

Shaina Pardun has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Brian and Marcie Pardun. Shaina has good attendance and excellent grades.

She is polite, friendly, respectful and hardworking. Shaina is involved in choir, softball, track, cross country and plays piano.

She is also involved with her church youth group. Her hobbies are painting and piano.

Nick Koelz has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. He is a freshman and the son of Jean and Peter Koelz. Nick has very good attendance and excellent grades. He is earning straight A’s. Nick is soft-spoken, very respectful and diligent. He plays soccer for the Siren/Grantsburg co-ed team. His hobbies are soccer, reading and board games.

UNITY

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Emily Shakal has been chosen Valley Christian Academy’s student of the week. She is in third grade and the daughter of Wayne and Pam Shakal of Taylors Falls, Minn. Her favorite subject is math, favorite color purple and Subway is her favorite food. Soccer and running are her favorite sports.

She has a brother and a sister.

After school Emily likes to go home and play piano or watch TV.

Katy Hamilton has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Richard Hamilton. Katy is a hard worker who always strives to do her best at anything she tries.

Her behavior is exemplary as she is cooperative with adults and her peers. She is well liked by anone who knows her.

Ashley Johnson has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daguther of Dan and Charlene Johnson. Ashley was chosen by the seventh grade team and the exploratory team because she is a terrific student and all-around great girl. Ashley is also a hard worker and is very willing to learn. She is kind to everyone.

Julia Larsen has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Ev Larsen of Centuria. Julia was selected for her tremendous effort and quiet leadership style in the classroom. She enjoys showing cattle, animals, reading, 4-H, FFA and Leos Club. Julia enjoys science classes and plans to go to college after high school.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 14, 2007

MARCH

WEDNESDAY/14 Amery

• Cattail ATV Club meeting, 6:30 p.m. at Uncle Bob’s. Call 715-268-6215 or 715-2684240.

Coming events

Frederic

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

Coming event items are published as a public service. Items must be submitted by 10 a.m. on Mondays to be assured of publication in that week’s issue. room. Registration forms will be available.

For more info contact Elvira Schmidt at 715653-2684.

Grantsburg

Siren

• Christian Womens Club meets, 9-10:30 a.m. at the senior center. Speaker Paula Zukowski of Maple Grove, Minn.; feature is Geneology with Maurice Crownheart and musice by Terri Skifskad. For reservations call Linnea Brask at 715-689-2160.

• Cholesterol & Diabetes Screening, call for apppointment, 715-349-2140.

THURSDAY/15 Frederic

• 500 Card Night, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Luck

Grantsburg

• Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 5-6:30 p.m. at the senior center. Contact Ellen Jepsen, 715-472-2877 or use 715-294-3750 as contact for other areas.

• Burnett County Bowhunter Education Course, begins at 7 p.m. at Friends of Crex.

Call 715-463-8368 for more info.

Siren

Lewis

• 8-week Grief Support Group meets, 45:30 p.m. at The Lodge at Crooked Lake, upstairs conference room. For more info or to register call 715-635-3211.

• Polk County Bowhunter Education Course, begins at 6:30 p.m. at South Fork Sporting Club. Call 715-653-4253 for more info.

Luck

WEDNESDAY/21

• ALPHA Celebration Dinner and Video & discussion, 6:30-8:45 p.m. Faith Fellowship. For info contact Pastor Maggie at 715825-3559.

Frederic

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

• American Legion & Auxiliary Unit 255, 6:30 p.m. at the village hall. Potluck supper and birthday party.

Centuria

• Women’s Softball league meeting at McKenzie Lanes, 7 p.m. Call 715-553-0063 for information.

FRI., SAT./16 & 17

THURSDAY/22

St. Croix Falls

• Regional Arts & Crafts Festival, at Chateau St. Croix Winery. Call 715-4832556 for info.

Frederic

• 500 Card Night, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Siren

Siren

• Coyote & Crow Hunt, at Coyland Creek.

This area’s less than “titanic” winter seems to be winding down this week, pro- • “Living with Grief: Before and After the Call 715-349-8445 or 715-653-4273 for more ducing scenes somewhat similar to the north Atlantic - even though it’s just chunks Death”, 12:30-3 p.m. at Burnett County Government Center, Room 165. Contact info. of melting ice in a parking lot. - Photo by Gary King Marilyn Kooiker at 715-349-2151 for more info. ing, noon at the DBS hall. Members needed.

Luck Frederic • Ladies Morning Retreat, 9:15 a.m. at the • The Live at the Lot Celebration, 1 p.m. at Siren Frederic the library/museum site. Call 715-825-2313.

Evangelical Free Church.

• 23rd-annual Whistling Wings Ducks Un- • Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center. limited Ladies Banquet, 5 p.m. social, 6:30 New Richmond p.m. program at Northwoods Crossing Event Rice Lake • Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 2 p.m.

Call Luck Center. 715-327-8049.

• Financial Planning for farm families, 10 715-246-4452 or 715-246-2684 for more info.

• American Cancer Society Finish Line Kicka.m.-2:30 p.m. at WITC. For info and to regisSarona off breakfast, 7 a.m. at Hog Wild. Call 715ter call 800-897-8134.

• Gaze at the stars, 8 p.m. at Hunt Hill 472-2654 for more info.

Amery Audubon Sanctuary. Call 715-735-6543 or e• Free child’s car seat inspection, 1-4 p.m. at mail: program@hunthill.org.

Milltown the fire hall.

Barron • Fish Fry, 4:30 p.m.-?, at the United VFW. St. Croix Falls • Sjoland Lodge 5-635, Sons of Norway • Spring Expo, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the commu• American Legion Post 143 Birthday Party, meet, 7 p.m. at First Lutheran Church. Pat nity center.

Siren Clayton • Celebrate the Irish through music, with Eu- cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. Everyone Berg will teach us how to play Norweigan • Spring Expo & Art Fair, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Bingo. Everyone is asked to bring an inexpennice Early & Betty Amundson, 2:30 p.m., at welcome.

LaPlace/Admiral Inn. sive wrapped gift.

Capeside Cove.

FRIDAY/16

FRIDAY/23

TUESDAY/20

SAT.-SUN./17 & 18 Rice Lake

• Rod & Gun Club Gun Show, at UW gym.

Sat. 8:30-5, Sun. 8:30- 3.

Trade Lake

• “Green Eggs and Ham” Father-Son breakfast, 9 a.m. at the Baptist Chruch.

Yellow Lake

SATURDAY/17

• 15th-annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, from Gandy Dancer Saloon. 11 a.m. assemble and noon start.

• Noon Potluck Lunch, at the senior center.

Bingo, cards, pool or fellowship begins at 1:30 p.m. Birthday cake at 3 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

Frederic

• Celebrate the Irish through music, with Eunice Early & Betty Amundson, 2:30 p.m., at United Pioneer Home.

Grantsburg

• All-You-Can-Eat Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner, 4 p.m. until gone, at the American Legion.

SUNDAY/18 • American Legion Post 143 Sunday Breakfast, 8 a.m.-noon.

MONDAY/19 Frederic

• Spades played, 1:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Luck

• Danish Brotherhood Society potluck meet-

Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra to perform at SCFalls ST. CROIX FALLS – The Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra, directed by Gerrit W. Lamain, will present a concert on Sunday, March 25, at 4 p.m., at Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church, St. Croix Falls.

There is no charge for the program, and no reservations or tickets are necessary. A freewill offering will be taken and proceeds given to the local food shelf in keeping with the group’s mission of donating concert proceeds wherever they perform. This is the group’s eighth appearance in St. Croix Falls.

The program is entitled Let There Be Peace, and includes: “Memorial” by Rene Clausen, “Blessed They” by Brahms, “Hymn to the Fallen” by John Williams, “Hand in Hand – A Song for Peace” by Isaacson and “Let There be Peace on Earth” by Miller/Jackson.

Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra is a nonprofit organization, which draws volunteer musicians from all over the Twin Cities Metro area. The group celebrated its 21st anniversary in December 2006, and has raised over $200,000 to benefit area food shelves.

A community supper will follow the concert. If you have any questions, please call 715-646-2220 or 715-483-1194. – submitted

Balsam Lake

SATURDAY/24

Frederic

• Private Pesticide Applicator Training, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the government center. Call Ryan at 715-405-8660 for more info.

• Noon Potluck Lunch, at the senior center.

Bingo, cards, pool or fellowship begins at 1:30 p.m.

Clam Falls

• The Schimpps in Concert, 7 p.m. at North Valley Lutheran Church. Coffee after.

Frederic

• New strategies for direct meat marketing conference at WITC, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Call 715-726-7950 or www.uwex.edu/ces/news.

• Coffee hour, 9 a.m. at the Lutheran church.

Everyone welcome.

• Polk County Aging Group Meeting, 1:303:30 p.m. at the Community Rm. of Golden Oaks Apts. Jump Into Spring With Exercise and Fitness is the topic with Lisa Erickson as the speaker. Call 715-485-8599 for more info.

• American Cancer Society Run/Walk Finish Line team chairpersons Kick-Off meeting, 5:30 p.m., at Pilgrim Lutheran Church dining

Milltown

Rice Lake

Siren

• School library fundraiser, 6 p.m. at the high school. Dinner, raffle and silent auction. Call 715-349-2277 for more info.