Leader|march 19|2008

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 1 9 , 2 0 0 8 • V O L U M E 7 5 • N O . 3 0 • 8 , 0 0 0 C O P I E S • S E C T I O N A

Leader INTER-COUNTY

WEEKEND WATCH:

• Festival of the Arts @ SCFalls • Ruby’s Pantry @ Siren and Frederic • Concert @ Grantsburg, St. Croix Falls • ACS walk/run kickoff @ Luck • St. Paddy’s parades at Webb Lake, Siren, New Richmond and Yellow Lake • Whistling Wings banquet @ Siren • See Coming events and stories

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Drug task forces in jeopardy?

$1

Taking fli flight

Cuts in federal money could result in defunding for task forces, including one that covers Burnett, six other counties PAGE 3

Explosion

Two men critically injured in chemical plant explosion in Spooner PAGE 2

Trail to be nonmotorized

DNR will not appeal judge’s decision on AmeryDresser Trail PAGE 3

GAM sale gets day in court

Hearing could stop sale of county-owned nursing home PAGE 6

Karin Friberg catches some air in a Junior World Ski Jumping Competition in Europe. Friberg is the granddaughter of Arvid and Marge Friberg of Frederic. See feature story in Sports. - Photos from www.ladies-skijumping.com unless otherwise noted

ALSO INSIDE

Greetings from Japan

Charles Stanislaw relates his transition from “one stoplight town” to Tokyo

CURRENTS, Page 1

The All-Leader boys basketball selections are in!

S e e

S P O R T S

Excitement builds at Webster Schools Summer school coming for the first time in years

PAGE 4

Holding pattern for airport project

Burnett County Airport expansion project on hold as DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics look for compromise PAGE 5

What’s the future of the Frederic pool?

Public meeting Monday evening will offer information on options for the facility PAGE 2

Monster mash the Frankenstein veto An editorial observation PAGE 8

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

Explosion injures two

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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

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

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

by Regan Kohler SPOONER -Two Spooner men were injured after an explosion in the Cortec Spray Technology Division aerosol chemical plant, Spooner, around 8:43 a.m. Tuesday, March 18.

The injured were reportedly a head line worker and a laborer. They were named on the KSTP.com Web site as Aaron Merchant, a 1991 Shell Lake High School graduate, and Corey LaBonte, a Spooner High School graduate.

The men suffered what were believed to be first- or second-degree burns. They were treated at Spooner Health System and then transferred to other hospitals.

Merchant was taken to Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis and LaBonte was transported to MillerDwan Burn Center, which is affiliated with St. Mary’s in Duluth. Both men listed in critical condition.

Seven people were in the building at the time of the explosion.

“There was a big boom, and our building shook,“ said a WK Appliance and Propane Co. employee; the company is across the highway from Cortec. “We thought, ‘who crashed into our building?‘ It was very scary.“ Thick black smoke and flames shot high into the morning sky as a sound similar to fireworks was heard by those near the building. Those close enough could also smell the pungent odor of chemicals.

Schmitz‘s Economart manager Steve Olson said he had seen the smoke from the building, and one employee had been outside when she heard the explosion. Olson said they received a “strong recommendation“ to evacuate around 10 a.m. from the Spooner PD. It was quiet that morning in the store because of the snowstorm, so Olson said they didn‘t have as many customers to evacuate.

Spooner Fire Chief Darren Vik said at a press conference around noon that he was one of the first responding to the scene and he found that a Cortec employee who‘d been operating a forklift before the explosion was badly burned, though able to walk out of the building. Vik said he could hear a worker‘s voice under the debris, as the cement-block building‘s roof had collapsed by that point.

“It was a very difficult, very tricky situation,“ he said of trying to get in there to extricate the person.

Vik found the two injured employees, who were both conscious when rescued, to be suffering from breathing problems and from facial burns.

Black smoke fills the air at Cortec chemical plant after an explosion, Tuesday. - Photo by Larry Samson “I deem it as serious- from personal experience,“ Vik said.

Vik said that only those two of six people employed were injured, and no deaths were reported.

“I think we‘re very fortunate,“ he said.

The Spooner Police Department, Washburn County Sheriff‘s Department, many local fire departments, the State Patrol and Department of Natural Resources responded to the scene, along with Barron and Sawyer counties. The 31/2 inches of snow that had fallen the previous night didn‘t make matters easier.

Vik said the blast did a lot of damage to the building. He said the walls went down, and that the “middle portion of the building is destroyed.“ Vik said the fire department was able to obtain the material safety data so they knew what kinds of chemicals they were dealing with. Cortec owner Roger Hanson said at the conference that they were standard chemicals, some oils, which were flammable or combustible.

Vik said there were no “extremely high health hazards,” though firefighters had to be careful due to some of their own equipment being flammable. The smaller explosions heard by those nearby

Dis ta nc e lea rn in g

Pool’s future focus of public meeting this Monday

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

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later, Vik added, weren‘t a threat to anyone‘s safety.

“We have a good policy in place of keeping our firefighters back,“ he said.

Law enforcement officials proceeded with evacuating the area not long after firefighters responded. Nearby businesses like the Economart Grocery Store were evacuated, as were between 50 and 75 residences on the east side of Hwy. 63 the side of the highway that that the explosion was on - within a half-mile to mile radius. Vik said at the later conference that he had no idea how long the roads would be closed for.

Those residents were brought to the National Guard Armory, and their children who had been in school that day were being kept in the elementary and high school buildings, as Vik said at the conference that it was unknown how long the area would be isolated. Both places were provided with food and drink, and ways of contacting their loved ones.

Students not living in the restricted area were able to board the buses after school at the regular time.

Vik said the total number of people evacuated was unknown at that time.

Hanson told the media at the conference that Cortec employees hadn‘t yet begun any work that day. He said since the plant opened in 1963, they had never had an explosion like this.

“The explosion [cause] is unknown,“ Hanson said.

By afternoon, Superior‘s Hazmat and fire department had arrived to do air quality testing. Sheriff‘s Department Chief Deputy Mike Richter said during the second conference that they weren‘t showing anything bad in the air, such as articulate matter or fallout from chemicals in the building, which he added was what they would be looking for in this case. After the final results come back, it was said, people can leave the evacuation centers. Vik said it may be a couple days before people can get near the scene itself.

“We put caution first,“ he said.

Vik said lots of good people have been on the scene working, and they are doing the best they can.

Health Department Director Jerri Pederson encouraged people who had been in the area to monitor any symptoms and seek treatment if they felt uncomfortable. She said signs could be eye irritation, skin infection and respiratory problems.

The closed-off roads were open for through traffic by 7:30 p.m. Tuesday night, and local businesses reopened around 5:30 p.m., according to Holiday gas station employees.

Distance learning isn’t just for “the big kids” anymore. First- and secondgrade students and teachers from Luck joined students from Glenwood City, Turtle Lake, Clayton, and Barron in learning about leprechauns and their gold while taking part in a CESA 11-arranged storytelling and craft session over the Interactive Television Network on St. Patrick’s Day. The activity featured a special storyteller reading the book, “The Leprechaun’s Gold,” and then the students and teachers created leprechaun figurines. – Photo by Lori Nelson, Luck Schools

FREDERIC – The future of the 50year-old Frederic swimming pool will be the focus of a public meeting to be held Monday, March 24, at 6:30 p.m. in the performance area of the Frederic 612 school.

Friends of the Pool, formerly Save the Pool, are sponsoring the meeting which will feature a presentation from the water technology company that has reviewed the condition of the pool and has recommended upgrades.

The meeting will also focus on building a new swimming pool.

“We’re not talking about putting such a project on the tax rolls, but rather fundraising,” noted Dianna Edling of Friends of the Pool.

“We want to discuss ideas we have for fundraising and we want public input,” she said. – Gary King

Briefly SIREN – It’s only right that Siren hosts one of the few St. Patrick’s Day parades in the area since the village has the highest Irish population – percentage-wise – in the Burnett and Polk county area. Nearly 9 percent of Siren’s population can honestly wear the green, nearly twice the percentage of populations in other communities.

Grantsburg comes in second with 7.1 percent. If you’re talking about celebrating Oktoberfest, there are more Germans in the two counties than any other nationality, according to census figures. And Danbury claims title to the Oktoberfest celebration.

Letter label misleading In last week’s letters to the editor section (page 10), we unintentionally capitalized Sportsmen in the title “Polk County sportsmen?” That title should in no way reflect on the Polk County Sportsmen’s Club, which had no connection to the incidents written about in the letter. We apologize for the error.

Seven seek SCF city seats Uhrhammer steps into council race as write-in

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–There are two city council seats, the mayor’s seat and the municipal court judge’s seat up in St. Croix Falls for the April election.

On the ballot for mayor is incumbent Brad Foss seeking a second term, and challenger and current city council member Darrell Anderson.

On the ballot seeking one vacant city council seat are Debra Kravig and Don Anderson.

On the ballot for a second vacant council seat is Paul Kuhlman.

Former Mayor Lee Uhrhammer (20022006) announced Tuesday that he was running against Kuhlman for city council as a write-in. Uhrhammer had previously announced his campaign for mayor as an opponent to Foss, but never filed the paperwork to place him on the ballot.

Uhrhammer noted on Tuesday he was seeking the write-in seat on the council and he would be filing the proper paperwork. As a write-in candidate, his name will not appear on the ballot for city council.

The final open seat in the city election is David Danielson as incumbent, unopposed for municipal court judge.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Task forces in jeopardy?

NORTHWEST WISCONSIN Federal budget cuts could mean the end of the war on drugs for several state drug task forces. Federal grant money has been more than cut in half.

One task force covers seven counties, including Douglas, Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer, Washburn and Iron counties. Office of Justice Assistance Spokesman Ryan Sugden says cuts have already eliminated 15 task forces across the state in the last three years, leaving 18 units.

Sugden says that number could be fewer than five by next year. He says the cut will likely not be a pro-rata cut where every task force receives a 67-percent cut. More than likely, he says what will happen is a defunding of a large majority of the task forces. He says unfortunately, no task force is immune to the possibility of cuts, and it is quite possible that task forces in the Douglas County area and the southeastern part of the state will be completely defunded.

Northwest Area Crime Unit

Supervisor Mike Miller is a narcotics officer for Douglas County. He says five years ago they received $100,000 in federal grant money. Now, they get $41,000 a year to help the task force pay for controlled buys and the hours devoted to investigations. He says cuts would limit their abilities.

He says a city like Superior is going to have some type of drug enforcement whether the task force exists or not, but it will most likely not going to be at the same level. He says where the cuts hurt are in some of these other counties that either don’t have full-time investigators or sufficient funding. He says they may just not do any investigation unless it’s something where they come across it in their normal duties.

Douglas County sent 72 meth cases to the state crime lab in 2007. Task forces are expected to lose over $1 million statewide if Congress doesn’t increase their funding. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Danielle Kaeding)

Local food shelves taking part in Feinstein giveaway

FREDERIC/LUCK – The Frederic Area Food Shelf and Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry of Luck will be taking part in the Feinstein Foundation Giveaway to Fight Hunger program again this year.

Donations received from March 1 to April 30 will be counted in the program. Donations may include cash, checks and food items. All food items will be valued at $1 per item or pound.

The more received locally, the more money the food shelves will receive from the foundation to feed the hungry.

This is the 11th year the Feinstein Foundation will divide $1 million among hunger-fighting agencies nationwide. Their past efforts have raised $760 million for agencies nation-

wide, according to their Web site, feinsteinfoundation.org.

“We hope all local business, churches, Scouts, schools, organizations and individuals will help us out,” noted LaVonne Boyer, director of the Frederic Area Food shelf.

Drop-offs for Frederic are at Bremer Bank, U.S. Bank, Frederic Grocery, Frederic Library, Affordable Quality and Frederic Food Shelf.

Luck drop-off will be the Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry.

Further information my be obtained by contacting Boyer at 715-327-4915 or Anita Pederson at 715-327-4712. For Luck contact Pat Williams at 715-0453727. – submitted

K el t o n m ee ts w i th O b e y

DNR will not appeal GaleWyrick decision

by Gregg Westigard AMERY/MADISON – The AmeryDresser Trail will be nonmotorized.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has decided not to appeal the Jan. 7 decision issued by Circuit Judge Molly GaleWyrick which ruled that there is no basis for allowing motorized use on state trails. Michael Lutz, DNR staff attorney in Madison, informed the Leader of the DNR decision on Friday. The DNR had until April 7 to make an appeal.

In her decision, GaleWyrick cited Wisconsin statute 23.175(2)(a) which she said “plainly limits state trail use to nonmotorized use. That statute says it is a duty of the DNR to: Designate a system of state trails as part of the state park system for use by equestrians, bicyclists, riders of electric personal assistive mobility devices, cross-country skiers or hikers.

The judge went on to say that the DNR has no authority to accept a motorized master plan submitted by Polk County. That master plan, dated October 2004, was approved by the property committee by a vote of 3-2 and by the full county board in 2005 by a vote of 11-10.

Polk County, which will develop and manage the 14-mile abandoned railroad bed, will now need to prepare a revised master plan for the property. The trail, which runs from the center of Amery to a spot just east of CTH MM by Lotus Lake in the town of Osceola, has been closed to all use for several years. The property committee may start reviewing its next steps at its meeting on Monday, March 24.

The use of the trail has been in dispute since the DNR acquired the property in 2003. One group of residents favored allowing ATVs on the trail during the nonsnow months.

Other residents favored restricting the trail to hiking, bicycles, and other nonmotorized uses. Friends of LOG [ L i n c o l n - O s c e o l a - G a r fi e l d ] Greenway, a group who favored the second option, filed a law suit contesting the county’s plan to allow ATVs. Judge GaleWyrick ruled in their favor.

Feingold makes statement on fifth anniversary of war

29 jobs created CUMBERLAND - Gov. Jim Doyle last week announced $187,000 in Agricultural Development Zone tax credits for Ardisam, Inc., city of Cumberland, Barron County. The project is expected to create 29 new jobs.

Ardisam, Inc. was founded in 1960 as a manufacturer of gear boxes and ice augers. Ardisam, Inc. is now expanding its operations into the biodiesel industry.

The company plans to construct and equip an addition to its facility in Cumberland, which will manufacture biodiesel fuel. Total project cost is $2,291,500.

The Agriculture Development Zone program provides tax credits, which help attract, promote, retain, and encourage the expansion of agriculture businesses in Wisconsin. For more information about the Agriculture Development Zone program, contact Todd Jensen, commerce, at 608-266-3074. - from the office of Gov. Doyle

Amery-Dresser Trail to be nonmotorized,

Polk County Democratic Chairperson Jan Kelton of Frederic recently met with Congressman Dave Obey in Washington, D.C., to discuss mental health issues. Kelton was invited by the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors to represent the 7th Congressional District in seeking the allocation of more funds for mental health care. According to a recent study, mental health and physical health are intertwined, and both types of care should be provided and linked together within health care delivery systems and more research needs to take place. Kelton and Obey are shown in Obey’s office in the U.S. Capital – in the “Wisconsin corner,” which features photos of such Wisconsin leaders as Robert LaFollette and Gaylor Nelson. – special photo

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Sen. Russ Feingold made the following statement on the fifth anniversary of the war in Iraq, March 19.

“On the fifth anniversary of the U.S.-led invasion in Iraq, it is clear that continuing the current openended military policy doesn’t make sense. The American people certainly know that this war doesn’t make sense, and they expect us to do everything in our power to end it.

We in Congress cannot in good conscience put Iraq on the backburner, and we cannot turn a blind eye or feign helplessness as the administration keeps pursuing its misguided policies. This Congress has no greater priority than making right the mistake it made over five years ago when it authorized the war in Iraq.” – from the office of Sen. Feingold

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

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

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Grantsburg eyed for assisted living facility

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG –Grantsburg Village Board has been in contact with a Minnesota company considering building a 24-unit assisted-living facility in the village. The yet to be named company, which has built several facilities in Minnesota and Wisconsin, has looked at several possible sites within the village.

The company has asked the village to consider forming a Tax Increment Financing District. The board discussed the estimated $2 million project and request for the TIF creation at their March 10 board meeting.

Sheila Meyer, village treasurer, told the board another TIF district could be created at the present time, but if the board waited until next year that could change. Meyer recommended the board start the process of establishing another TIF district whether or not the assisted living facility project goes forward, telling the board having another district would attract other businesses. The board agreed with Meyer and moved to start the process to create a fifth TIF district. The board will also set up a meeting with Dave Rasmussen of the MSA Engineering Firm and also the interested company to discuss the TIF district and plans for the assisted-living facility.

Village President Mark Dahlberg told the board it was his understanding the company’s first choice for the assistedliving facility would be property along the river just north of Grantsburg’s Main Street. Dahlberg said this building site would fit well with a recent initiative by Gov. Doyle to improve lake and riverfronts.

A number of people appeared before the board with proposals and requests for the board’s consideration and approval.

Craig Selander, representing the Grantsburg Golf Course LLC requested the village again pay the golf course’s water and sewer bill for the coming year. “We feel the course is a tremendous community asset,” Selander told the board. Selander detailed the significant improvements which have already been made, and also outlined proposed improvements for the course which include tree removal, paving of the cart path, completion of the new irrigation system and staining the clubhouse. All the carts have also been refurbished with new canopies and all equipment has been repaired.

Volunteers will again be doing cleanup work, but staff working in the

clubhouse will be hired. Dick Anderson will be returning as the club manager. A course opening is set for April, with weather permitting.

Dahlberg recommended the board approve paying the water and sewer through March 2009 with a maximum amount of $5,000.

Stan Peer, also representing the golf course, asked to address the board. Peer told the board 5,000 people visited the course last year, which was good for Grantsburg. Peer said the Village Improvement Program has used money raised for improvements to make the Grantsburg course a viable one. The VIP should also have enough funds to finish pending course improvements.

Duke Tucker came before the board to request permission for the Grantsburg Hockey Association to use Memory Lake Park and Campground for the World Championship Annual Watercross Event, July 15 through July 22. Tucker told the board the hockey association had a successful event last year and is adding more activities to this year’s watercross, including a vintage snowmobile race and exhibit.

Tucker asked for the same street closures as in previous years, and also for the board to pay the same amount of $1,500 as in the past for weed removal.

The board voted to approve Tucker’s requests.

Business Improvement District President Ted Gerber addressed the board with a request to dissolve the Grantsburg BID. Citing lack of interest and board participation, Gerber said the village board had it in its power to move for immediate dissolution. Gerber told the board he hoped to avoid the other, lengthier option under BID rules, so he had informally contacted over half the BID members asking them to sign a petition to dissolve BID. All of the members contacted by Gerber signed the petition and expressed a desire to no longer have a Grantsburg BID. A request from Dahlberg for Gerber to contact all the BID members before any board action would be taken brought another question and request from Gerber. Gerber asked the board if he had at least 75-percent approval for dissolution would the board then move to dissolve BID without going through the 90 day process. The board agreed and Gerber will bring the results to the April board meeting.

Craig Bowman, who directs the aerospace projects for Burnett County 4-H

Summer school coming for the first time in years

half day, from 8:30 a.m. until noon.

According to Stubbe, there is enough grant money supporting the program to allow the district to provide free lunch and breakfast to all students who attend. Erickson said that there are sufficient funds for the district to offer transportation to students who need it to and from classes.

Class content is still in the development stage, but according to Stubbe, it will be geared toward "fun things." She is trying to create a curriculum that will enable the children to explore learning experiences that the standard school year classes cannot offer.

"I cannot say enough about what Lynn has done for us," said Erickson.

The district has not had a regular summer school program since 1972.

In another matter related to new offerings in the schools, Jeff Walsh, principal of the elementary school, reported that "roundup" for the 4-year-old-kindergarten will be held March 27 and 28.

After a strong showing in the program this first year, Walsh is expecting that parents will again take advantage of this extra offering for their children.

Walsh also reported that the Webb Lake Community Club had donated

clubs, asked the board for the use of the Grantsburg Airport on June 8 from 2 to 5 p.m. for the annual countywide rocket launch. The board gave approval and will give notice through the FAA of the time of the event for pilots.

The board heard comments from downtown property owner Jerry Boyd who was concerned about weed removal from downtown sidewalks.

Boyd recommended to the board weed removal should to be done early this spring for the best results.

Grantsburg Police Chief Jeff Schinzing told the board the new computer system installed in the village’s police vehicles is working well. The system is much more efficient and safe, allowing officers to stay in their squad cars while running license checks on drivers. The system can also print out citations in the vehicle rather than officers having to write them.

In other board business: A draft of the proposed village maintenance ordinance was reviewed by the board. It was noted this was just a draft and changes can be made. The question of who will enforce such an ordinance and who will decide what is a violation

Duke Tucker of the Grantsburg Hockey Association asked the Grantsburg Village Board for the use of Memory Lake Park and Campground for the annual World Championship Watercross Event in July. Tucker told the board plans are being made to add more activities to this year’s event, including a vintage snowmobile exhibit and race.

Grantsburg Business Improvement District President Ted Gerber appeared before the Grantsburg Village Board at their March meeting to recommend dissolving the BID due to lack of interest and participation by members. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer came up for discussion. Even those involved in drafting the ordinance had differing opinions. The notion of one person’s trash being another person’s treasure was brought up, and caused more discussion leading to the board’s recommendation to look at the ordinance further and then discuss it again at the next board meeting.

The board approved a request by Burnett Medical Center’s Clinic Manager and Marketing Director Shelley Staeven to close Madison Avenue, Maple Street and North Avenue for the Carlyle Sherstad 5K Walk/Run event during Big Gust Days.

The board appointed Scott Hanson to the Grantsburg Airport Advisory Committee.

The North Pine Street project was approved by the board and a public hearing was set for 8 p.m. on Monday, April 14.

The board also approved a request by Daryl Lindstrom to place a purple martin interpretive sign at Memory Lake Park. The Memory Lake Colony is part of the East Central Minnesota Purple Martin Recovery project which consists of six public sites. Lindstrom stated in a letter to the board that having the sign at Memory Lake will help educate the public about the project.

Excitement builds in Webster schools

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - "I'm so excited about this that I can hardly stay in my seat," said Webster Schools Superintendent Jim Erickson. He made his remarks at Monday's school board meeting after Lynn Stubbe, after-school program coordinator, reported on progress in the development of the schools summer school program.

Stubbe said that the intent of the program is to offset the learning loss that occurs during the summer months when students are on vacation.

According to sources and data she cited, the downtime for education during the summer leads to some loss of skills and knowledge that the students have gained during the school year. Summer school activities can diminish the extent of that loss.

Classes and learning activities will be available for students in grades kindergarten through eight, and they will also be open to students from neighboring school districts, not just the Webster District. The program will operate for a

At Monday's meeting of the Webster School Board of Education, Lynn Stubbe, after-school program coordinator for the Webster Schools, reported on plans for a summer school program in the Webster Schools. - Photo by Carl Heidel $1,580 to the elementary school program to cover the purchase of a digital camera lab. The club wanted to do something for the elementary schoolchildren, and they wanted to contribute toward something that would help them gain skills in using the emerging

technologies of digital photography.

The WLCC wasn't the only group to come up with funding to support the schools. Walsh also reported that middle school students grades five through eight managed to raise around $3,000 through magazine sales. The money will be split between the Dollar for Scholars program and the middle school fund that provides for extracurricular activities.

Erickson reported that he had held an information meeting with parents to answer their questions about the proposed e-mail accounts for the students.

He said it was a meeting of "good give and take." He assured the board that if parents chose not to let their children have e-mail accounts through the school, "We will not let it hurt the students grades."

In other business, the board: • approved volunteer coaching contracts for Doug Quenzer (track), Deanna Krause (track) and Allan Steiner (softball); • and approved open enrollment requests for 2008-2009.

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MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

H E A D L I N E S

Airport expansion on hold

by Sherill Summer SIREN – An airport engineer from ASA, Mark Graczykowski, who is working on the Burnett County airport expansion project, appeared before the county supervisors on Thursday, March 13.

After repeated delays, the FAA audited the airport expansion project and a handful of others to uncover the problems. The results of the audit was released last month and revealed several reasons for the delay, foremost was the conflict between the airport expansion and the protected Amsterdam Slough Wildlife Area.

For now, the project is on hold as the DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife, who control the Amsterdam Slough, and the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics, who support the airport expansion, try to mediate a compromise.

It was hoped that someone from the BOA could also appear before the supervisors, but the BOA representative was unable to attend. Many of the questions posed by the supervisors, such as what is the longterm economic impact of the expansion for the county now that oil prices were up, were outside the expertise of the engineer. He was, however, able to give some insights to problems from an engineer’s viewpoint.

Graczykowski admitted that he was surprised that the DNR-controlled Amsterdam Slough was proving to be a problem for the expansion project. He did not feel that the full environmental impact statement proposed by the FAA audit would be required, explaining that of the four levels of environmental review, the full impact statement was the most stringent, and that he knows of projects that had a greater environmental disruption that did not require this level of scrutiny.

Next month, the Burnett County airport manager will be meeting with the BOA, and it is hoped that there will be more details of what solutions the BOA might propose to the DNR. Much of the $1.6 million project is federal and state funded. Burnett County’s share of the cost is expected to be $180,000 to $200,000.

Airport engineer Mark Graczykowski from MSA discusses the airport expansion delays with the county supervisors. – Photo Sherill Summer

Ferris honored

For nearly 25 years, Dave Ferris has quietly worked as county conservationist at Burnett County Land and Water Conservation Department, tirelessly developing lakeshore restoration practices, watershed protections programs and more, all to keep Burnett County beautiful. Somehow, Ferris’ accomplishments over the years were leaked throughout greater Wisconsin, and now, Ferris has been named county conservationist of the year by Wisconsin Association of Land Conservationist Employees. In the press release announcing the award, Ferris was touted as a strong and knowledgeable player in the natural resources and conservation arenas. He is a team player, willing to share information, understanding the “big picture,” but acting locally, valuing and empowering co-workers and staff, delegating wisely and an all around outstanding conservationist. – Photo by Sherill Summer

Local activist presents message to Dutch Parliament members

Editor’s note: John LaForge, a staff member of Nukewatch, a nonprofit peace and environmental action group based at the Anathoth Community Farm in rural Luck, was part of an expert panel to address the Dutch Parliament’s Standing Committee of Defense about the U.S. military’s use of uranium munitions in February. The complete text of LaFarge’s message can be found at Nukewatch.com.

Uranium weapons: Why not believe the Pentagon?

by John LaForge THE HAGUE, Netherlands – According to a June 1995 statement by the U.S. Army’s Environmental Policy Institute, “Depleted uranium is a radioactive waste and, as such, should be deposited in a licensed repository.”

The U.S. has been shooting this radioactive waste, in the form of armor-piercing shells, at people around the world: At testing ranges in the U.S., South Korea and on Vieques; at populated areas in Iraq (380 tons in 1991; 170 tons in 2003); Afghanistan in 2001 (amounts unknown), Kosovo in 1999 (10 tons), and Bosnia in 1994-5 (5 tons).

Like earlier Pentagon denials about the hazards of the defoliant Agent Orange widely used in Indochina, or above-ground bomb tests in Nevada, or workplace hazards in H-bomb factories, the U.S. military claims publicly that uranium munitions are not known to cause health problems. Yet, the strongest evidence to the contrary comes from its own reports.

On Aug. 16, 1993, the U.S. department of the Army’s Office of the Surgeon General issued its Depleted Uranium (DU) Safety Training manual. The document says the expected effects of DU exposure include possible increase of cancer (lung and bone) and kidney damage. It recommends that the Army “…convene a working group … to identify countermeasures against DU exposure …”

In 1979, the U.S. Army Mobility Equipment, Research and Development Command warned, “Not only the people in the immediate vicinity (emergency and fire fighting personnel) but also people at distances downwind from the fire are faced with potential overexposure to airborne uranium dust.”

In 1995, the U.S. Army Environmental Policy Institute reported, “The radiation dose to critical organs depends upon the amount of time that depleted uranium resides in the organs. When this value is known or estimated, cancer and hereditary risk esti-

mates can be determined.” Depleted uranium has the potential to generate “significant medical consequences” if it enters the body.

In 1993, the U.S. Army Surgeon General’s Office said, “When soldiers inhale or ingest DU dust, they incur a potential increase in cancer risk. The magnitude of that increase can be quantified … if the DU intake is known …. Expected physiological effects from exposure to DU dust include possible increased risk of cancer (lung or bone) and kidney damage.”

The Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute found that, “In animal studies, embedded DU, unlike most metals, dissolves and spreads throughout the body depositing in organs like the spleen and the brain, and a pregnant female rat will pass DU along to a developing fetus.”

In 1990, the Army’s Armaments, Munitions and Chemical Command radiological task group has said that depleted uranium is a “low-level alpha radiation emitter … linked to cancer when exposures are internal, [and] chemical toxicity causing kidney damage.”

The report said that “long-term effects of low doses [of DU] have been implicated in cancer … there is no dose so low that the probability of effect is zero.”

The military has a long history of deliberately exposing U.S. citizens to dangerous radiation without their knowledge or consent, beginning with the open-air bomb tests that the Pentagon knew would contaminate vast areas. The Atomic Energy Commission considered but chose not to evacuate or even warn populations they knew would be hit hard by radioactive fallout.

These bomb tests exposed Nevada Test Site workers to levels of radiation that the Atomic Energy Commission knew could cause harm. Government records show that the AEC chose not to reduce workers exposures or to even inform them because doing so would have halted the bomb testing program.

The government, even after learning of the dangers, refused to inform 600,000 H-bomb-factory workers that their radiation exposures posed serious health risks. Atomic Energy Commission records show that although enough was known in 1948 about radiation to warn the workers, the AEC chose not to do so.

Cold-blooded human radiation experiments were conducted on as many 16,000 unwitting U.S. citizens between 1944 and 1974. Plutonium was injected into hapless prison inmates, hospital patients, even pregnant women; radioactive oatmeal was fed to orphaned children; 250,000 soldiers were marched toward ground zero immediately after bomb test detonations.

That the Pentagon has now exposed civilians in foreign countries to radiation exposures it knew could

cause cancer, leukemia, lymphoma and other deadly diseases, should come as no surprise to informed citizens.

Just last October, the Associated Press reported that in 1948 the U.S. Army studied the use of “radioactive materials from atomic bomb-making to contaminate swaths of enemy land or to target military bases, factories or troop formations.” The Army reported in 1945, according to the AP, that “radioactive fission products from a uranium-fueled reactor could be extracted and used ‘like a particularly vicious form of poison gas.’”

These days, since the U.S. has actually used “radioactive materials from atomic bomb-making to contaminate swaths of enemy land” — namely uranium munitions by the ton — the military is quick to say that any contamination of soil and water in Kosovo, Bosnia, Afghanistan or Iraq is “incidental” and unrelated to cancers and other health problems experienced by exposed civilians, peace-keeping troops and combat forces.

Even when “radioactive fission products from a uranium-fueled reactor” were “extracted and used like a particularly vicious form of poison gas,” Pentagon and NATO officials have dismissed the public uproar.

In 2001, when plutonium, neptunium and americium — isotopes created only inside reactors — were found in contaminated areas of Kosovo hit by uranium shells, U.S. officials said, “the shells contained mere traces of plutonium, not enough to cause harm.”

NATO representatives said likewise, “Traces of … plutonium … were not relevant to soldiers’ health because of their minute quantities.”

Any NATO or Pentagon official who can blandly trivialize the health impact of plutonium exposure, should be invited — by parliaments and veterans the world over — to voluntarily ingest a few “mere traces.” Their answer to the invitation would be more informative than their lullabies.

Finally the militaries that both use uranium weapons and make official denials of their harmfulness have a state interest in avoiding financial liability and a personal interest in legal liability in the International Criminal Court. It is no wonder the Pentagon and U.S. Department of State object so strenuously to the mere idea of the ICC’s universal jurisdiction. They are scared because, “the law of armed conflict applies to an international armed conflict regardless of whether a declared ‘war’ exists.” And because, under the Hague and Geneva Conventions, “It is especially forbidden to employ poison or poisoned weapons.”

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

GAM sale gets day in court

Hearing could stop sale of nursing home

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – The attempt to stop the sale of Golden Age Manor, the Polk County owned nursing home in Amery, will have its day in court Wednesday, March 26, less than a week before the home is scheduled to pass into the hands of a new owner.

A motion hearing before Circuit Judge Eugene Harrington from Washburn County will start at 9 a.m. at the Polk County Justice Center in Balsam Lake. That hearing will consider motions from each side that could, among other things, dismiss the case and let the sale proceed, stop the sale, or delay the sale and set a trial date. The hearing is open to the public.

As the court date nears, the interested parties in the case are filing a continuing series of motions, petitions,

and backup documents. There were 67 items in the case file folder as of Monday morning, March 17. That includes 10 items recorded on March 12.

The plaintiffs, who want to stop the sale, make a number of claims, including one that the GAM property in Amery was donated to the county in 1957 and that property donated for a specific purpose can not be sold without a two-thirds vote of the county board.

[The sale was approved by a vote of 12 to 11.] Based on that claim, the plaintiffs are asking for a summary judgment in their favor voiding the sale.

The defendants, the county and its officials, deny that claim, stating in part that the 1957 deed conveying the property from Annie M. Sullivan to Polk County for $5,000 only mentions that construction must start on a “County infirmary” within two years. The county makes other claims including one that the named plaintiffs do not have the right to file a suit and another that the complaint should have come to the county

first for a possible settlement.

The court case arose when the Polk County Board voted to sell GAM at a special county board meeting on Jan. 22. The next morning, three persons filed a civil action against Polk County to stop the sale. The three, all listed as Polk County residents, are Eugene Sollman, also listed as a member of the GAM board, Marion Posey, also listed as a GAM employee, and Anne Nykreim, also listed as a GAM resident. Since that time, at least two parties, GAM employee Lynn Ehn and one of the employee unions, Teamsters local 662, have joined the case as interested parties.

The lead attorney for the plaintiffs is Jason Whitley of Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley and Bergmanis, Amery. The defendants are represented by Michael O’Brien and William Thiel of Weld, Riley, Prenn and Ricci, Eau Claire, the firm that often represents the county.

Civil cases are different from criminal trials

Both sides present their arguments in advance, issues are laid out in a thick court file

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – When the Golden Age Manor issue comes to court next Wednesday, Judge Eugene Harrington will be presiding over a civil case, not a criminal trial. There is a big difference between the two. In criminal trials, the type seen often on television, someone is charged with breaking the law. The district attorney builds a case based on the charge, the alleged criminal makes a plea before the judge, and the trial begins. At that time, the prosecution presents all the evidence. Criminal cases can result in fines and possibly jail time.

In civil cases there is no district attorney and no charge of a criminal act. Most interestingly, all the arguments are presented, in writing, before the case

comes before the judge. The public can review the same information the judge will see.

The GAM case, is titled “Eugene Sollman et al vs Polk County et al,” Polk County case number 2008CV63. A member of the public can go to the clerk of court’s office in the justice center in Balsam Lake and ask to see the file.

That file contained, as of last Friday, 67 items ranging from single-page documents to bundles of multipage documents held together with rubber bands and clips. The file last Friday was close to 4 inches thick.

Each item is a submission from the plaintiffs, the side bringing the case (those who do not want GAM sold) or from the defendants (the county). The file begins with the seven-page summons filed on the morning of Jan. 23, the day after the county board voted to sell GAM, asking the court to stop the sale or delay the transfer until arguments can be presented.

Attached to that summons is a copy of the 1957 deed transferring the Amery property from Annie Sullivan to Polk County. That deed reappears many times in

other submissions. The plaintiffs paid a filing fee of $155, as noted in the second document.

From there the file grows. Each side presents detailed arguments as to why they are in the right.

Each side asks that the case be decided immediately based on their arguments. The sides can ask that a different judge be assigned to the case, and each side used its one chance to request a substitute. Harrington was assigned the case on Feb. 21 while he was on vacation, and his first recorded action, a status conference, took place Feb. 28.

Harrington is scheduled to open the motion hearing on 08CV63 at 9 a.m. Wednesday, March 26, in the Branch III courtroom of the Polk County Justice Center. One side will ask him to stop or delay the GAM sale. The other side will ask him to dismiss the case. The sides may make oral arguments based on the information they have presented. The judge will then make a ruling on the motions.

The motion hearing is open to the public.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

C O U N T Y P O L K H E A D L I N E S

GAM sale may be stopped

County could face unbudgeted costs

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – The sale of Golden Age Manor, scheduled to take effect at midnight March 31, could be voided by the civil suit to that will be heard next Wednesday. The county would then need to decide what to do next. That decision would be made by the new county board elected on April 1. Here are some of the financial issues that might occur if the sale is stopped.

The sale price for GAM is $2.5 million. Costs of the sale are to come from that money. The county would have sales related expenses, including legal costs, which would need to be covered.

Part of the $2.5 million is to be used to pay off a $889,923 loan payment due on April 1 on the bonding for the GAM Alzheimer Unit financed in 1998. The county had included $1 million in its 2008 bonding package to refinance that loan. This decision was made in November before the sale of GAM was approved. That loan would stay on the books.

GAM lost $180,693 in 2007 according to unaudited figures presented by finance director Tonya Weinert. In the past, the county has paid GAM losses with transfers from the county’s general fund balance (reserves).

The 2008 county budget estimated a loss of $178,250 for the year and planned to use up to $250,000 in the general fund for that loss. That money might need to be spent.

GAM administrator Gary Taxdahl has pointed out that much of the GAM revenue and a major part of the expenses are outside of his control. Part of the revenue is from Medicaid reimbursements, a rate set by the federal government and adjusted quarterly. The Medicaid rate have not covered the actual costs of providing care in the past.

The county has also received an annual payment of federal/state funds

from a source once called the Intergovernmental Transfer Program and now called Certified Program Expenditures. Some of that money, set up to offset the operating deficits of government-owned nursing homes, has been transferred to other senior-carerelated programs by the state. GAM’s 2008 revenue from this source could be lower than the 2007 rate.

Taxdahl has said that he has no control of his largest expense. Wage and benefit rates for GAM employees are decided by the county board as part of the union agreements and the pay level set for nonunion employees. The GAM workers are members of two unions. In the past, the GAM package has been the same as other county workers.

Supervisor Gerald Newville told the county board in January that GAM employees may be willing to accept a different wage/benefit package to help lower operating costs. That idea might be on the table if the sale is stopped.

Some residents in the area around GAM have been quoted as saying they would not mind paying higher taxes to keep GAM in county ownership. The county’s ability to raise property taxes is limited by the state levy cap. There is a possible way to raise more tax revenue.

Wisconsin allows Special Purpose Districts which have government powers which extend beyond the limits of local governments. These include fire associations, lake associations, and sewer districts like the one serving Wapogasset Lake. These districts have the power to collect property taxes from their area. It might be possible to form a SPD to be a part owner of Golden Age Manor, along with the county. The district might include Amery, the villages of Clear Lake and Clayton, and the towns of Garfield, Alden, Black Brook, Lincoln, Clayton and Clear Lake. As a government unit, this SPD would not lose state IGT/CPE funds.

A termination of the sale of GAM will not eliminate the issue as a Polk County topic.

Meet the candidates open house set at Daniels Town Hall TOWN OF DANIELS - The town boards of both town of Siren and Town of Daniels have invited the county supervisor candidates for Burnett County - District 8 (Town of Daniels and Ward 3 Town of Siren) to be available at a public open house. The open house will provide an opportunity for District 8 citizens to meet their candidates prior to the election on Tuesday, April 1.

Jim Engelhart (incumbent) and Chuck Awe (write-in candidate), have been invited to respond to questions

regarding their personal background, District 8 and Burnett County issues and any other concerns people may have.

Since the town of Daniels composes the majority of District 8 and since Ward 3, town of Siren is equidistant between the two town halls, the open house will be held at Daniels Town Hall, located at 9602 Daniels 70. The open house will be Saturday, March 29, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. - with submitted information

New law makes EC available in hospitals

MADISON - Wisconsin hospitals would have to offer emergency contraception to rape victims who ask for it under a bill signed into law Thursday by the governor.

The new law requires hospitals to provide sexual assault victims with unbiased medical information about emergency contraception, also known as the “morning-after pill.” Hospitals would then have to provide it if a patient asks. Medical staff could, however, refuse if a test shows the woman is pregnant.

A hospital which refuses to tell patients about emergency contraception and provide it upon request could face fines. Gov. Jim Doyle says the Department of Health and Family Services will monitor hospitals for compliance and follow up on complaints about violations of these requirements.

The law provides financial penalties, but protects the jobs of medical staffers who refuse to provide emergency contraception because of religious beliefs. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shamane Mills)

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

L e a d e r

We b Po l l

Last week’s poll results The next president will be:

28%

41 votes

Barack Obama

34%

50 votes

Hillary Clinton

38%

56 votes John McCain

Total votes: 147

The downturn in the economy has:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Resulted in loss of hours and/or job Made me change spending habits Resulted in loss of my home Made me change transportation habits It really hasn’t affected me yet

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

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M

Frankenstein referendum

April 1, voters in Wisconsin will be faced with a referendum question O nthat’s really a no-brainer.

A yes vote will ban the Frankenstein veto, a legal tool used by governors to stitch together bits and pieces of sentences in spending bills to basically create law from scratch.

Not unlike Dr. Frankenstein created his monster.

It’s been written that our current governor opposed the practice before being elected to the position. He’s acccused of sifting through more than 800 words and numbers in 2005, vetoing all but a couple dozen - then taking the fragments and creating a sentenced that authorized hundreds of millions in spending never approved by the Legislature.

According to writer Scott Milfred of the Wisconsin State Journal, Doyle isn’t the first governor to do this - but may be the last. Milfred notes this is only the second time in more than 75 years that state voters will have the chance to narrow the governor’s “vast veto power,” - and that they’re likely to make good use of the opportunity.

The other time was in 1990 when voters banned the “Vanna White” veto.

That amendment stopped Gov. Tommy Thompson and all future governors from vetoing individual letters to spell out new words.

Good grief. Wouldn’t it be nice to veto letters and words to your car loan or maybe your credit card statement? This appears to be some twisted version of plagiarism - but with millions of dollars at stake. And guess whose dollars those might be?

Here’s a preview of what voters will read when they go to vote April 1: “Partial veto. Shall section 10 (1) (c) of article V of the constitution be amended to prohibit the governor, in exercising his or her partial veto authority, from creating a new sentence by combining parts of two or more sentences of the enrolled bill?”

Not exactly user-friendly language - but it simply means you’re being asked to ban this power that is a magnet for abuse.

State Senator Sheila Harsdorf has led an intense campaign to get the Frankenstein Veto abolished and to get it the issue before legislators and the public.

Now it’s up to us to mash this monster.

Who can judge the judge’s race?

concept of the Wisconsin Judicial Campaign Integrity Committee is T henoble.

W h e re t o Wr i t e

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

Governor Jim Doyle 115 East, State Capitol Bldg.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

T h e

The eight-citizen commmittee promoting fair and ethical campaigning for judicial seats has been almost comically busy this year - issuing statements on the race between incumbent State Supreme Court Justice Louis Butler and challenger Michael Gableman, Burnett County Circuit Court Judge.

Following are two isolated samples of statements issued recently by the WJCIC to media statewide showing the watchdog group’s work on behalf of both candidates: “The Wisconsin Judicial Campaign Integrity Committee (WJCIC) has reviewed a third-party television advertisement that criticizes Judge Michael Gableman’s record as a prosecutor and judge in respect to his handling of cases involving the sexual assault of children. The committee believes the ad is problematic and misleading to voters for a number of reasons, including the reality that a 30-second TV ad simply cannot provide an appropriate and meaningful context within which data of the kind presented here can be evaluated by voters.”

And...

“The Wisconsin Judicial Campaign Integrity Committee (WJCIC) has reviewed a television advertisement from the campaign of Judge Michael Gableman regarding a criminal case Justice Louis Butler was involved in decades ago in his role as a Public Defender. The committee finds this ad to be both highly offensive and deliberately misleading and urges Judge Gableman to take it off the air.”

Campaigns for the state supreme court have taken on a nasty tone, and this race is no different. There are third parties involved, which make the task of policing ads all the more difficult.

There’s obviously a place for a group like the WJCIC. But unfortunately, one word in the group’s title - integrity - is being challenged by some editorialists and a group called Wisconsin Club for Growth.

Sorting out the reality from perception amidst all the claims probably calls for another committee.

One of the more disturbing charges to surface involves claims that three of WJCIC’s distinguished members or their spouses have ties to Butler’s campaign and one member contributed money to Butler. And none of the members of WJCIC can reportedly be tied to Gableman.

Does that mean the group’s work is compromised?

It’s an issue that detracts from the issue of misleading ads, and both issues detract from the candidates themselves - in what is a critical election to be decided April 1.

And it raises the question - how do you find the impartiality required to fairly judge a judge’s race?

Election information

will head to the polls April 1 to elect county board supervisors, V oters council members, school board members and a new State Supreme Court

Judge.

The Leader will be publishing profiles and overviews of local elections in its next issue, which falls approximately a week before election day. Like a student cramming for a test - the time to absorb any information is the period right before the quiz. At least that’s part of our reasoning for the timing.

Although it’s obvious that smaller communities generate votes that are often cast based on acquaintances and loyalties, there are still local candidates who run on strong views on various issues. And that requires at least a small measure of investigation for the undecided voter.

Stay tuned for next week’s election overview.

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

All editorials on this page by editor Gary King

L e a d e r

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

J u d ic ia l e le c t io n s s h o u l d r e m a i n n o n p ar t i s a n In this country we have always had great respect for the judiciary, because we have known that judges endeavor to be impartial. We have known that judges are responsible for applying existing law, and that they cannot, under any circumstances change the law or, worse, make new laws.

This is so, without question, in spite of those who speak of activist judges. There are no jurists who are “activist judges.

Those who speak of activist judges are merely disparaging those who do not share their political philosophy. They speak of activist judges as those who should be replaced by judges of a different persuasion, who would be, of course, every bit as much, or more, “activist” than those who were replaced.

They are suggesting reliance upon different political beliefs as criteria for the selection of judges, which is a terrible way to select people who are required to be impartial, and who must apply existing law, particularly statutory law. If a jurist has to decide whether or not a statute is to be followed the decision always is “yes” the law must be followed … and, if it should be different, than it is for legislative bodies to make changes in statutory law; and courts often so state. Moreover, judges are constrained by years of case law interpreting statutes and situations of all kinds.

Of course, not all judges decide cases quite the same way, but there is not a great deal of variation. Otherwise, one would have no idea whatsoever about what to expect in court. It would be anarchy. Still judges are able to, and indeed required to, at times exercise judicial discretion; and they, I submit, give due and careful consideration to each issue. Judges do not make haphazard decisions. There are but limited areas of discretion that draw the attention of the media, and correspondingly the public including certain Constitutional issues, where again it is not as if there is no precedent to follow. In these few situations, a decision must be made, and there is almost invariably a losing party The decision, however, should be given its proper respect. To denigrate a Judge as being an activist judge due to dislike of his or her decision is disingenuous.

The forthcoming Supreme Court election has unfortunately turned into a political mudslinging contest. This is particularly distressing since both candidates are very capable, dedicated jurists, with integrity and excellent reputations. It is absolutely wrong to be choosing between them based on their political persuasions.

Whether they are Republicans, Democrats or members of the Green Party etc., should In no way be a factor in determining who should be elected. Wouldn’t it be good if we were able to return to a time not that

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

long ago, when the nonpartisan judicial elections were by and large just that and when we expected impartial justice in court, regardless of how a judge might think politically. Even better, better that we had no idea of his or her politics.

Justice Duller has been a good Supreme Court Justice. He has bipartisan support and the overwhelming support of the judiciary, the law enforcement community, and the Wisconsin Education Association Council. He should not be removed from office simply because of politics.

Ron Ylitalo Grantsburg

Wr o n g g en de r It is a generally accepted practice to limit letters to the editor to a single subject in a single letter, allow for a possible rebuttal and then that issue is rightfully closed.

However, Wayne Anderson’s letter of last week has created some confusion among my family and friends. They fear I may have gone through a life-changing, perhaps even a surgically altered metamorphosis they don’t understand.

The Ms. Leigh Marquardt referenced several times in Wayne’s recent letter is often mistaken for a 6-ft., 1-in., 230-pound, one-eyed, balding grandfather, who walks with a permanent list to the starboard side.

He sports a couple of serious facial skid marks, finds himself plagued with mutant ear hair and tops it all off with an unusual lopsided smile. This, along with irrefutable evidence of middle age spread has all the makings for one very strange looking female. ??

This letter would not be necessary if Anderson had not continued his lazy journalism habit of substituting assumptions for facts. If unsure he could have easily avoided this embarrassment by simply employing the most basic of writing skills such as learning to craft a complete paragraph about a person without using gender-specific nouns.

There is no need for Wayne Anderson to apologize. The telephone calls and belly laughs my wife and I received from family and friends were indeed a welcome gift.

I now find myself in Anderson’s debt, not only for the great humor, but also for the rewarding assumption that he embarrassed himself far more than he did me.

Leigh Marquardt Balsam Lake

R e i n i n t h e z e a l o ts As the price of gas climbs higher and higher, you can already hear the voices crying out to denounce big oil. Never mind the fact that both the state and the federal governments take a bigger percentage profit from you at the pump than the companies that find, access, refine and transport the petroleum. Never mind the

billions of dollars in payroll, Social Security, and other taxes paid by these companies. And never mind the fact that over 40 percent of the stock in these companies is held in mutual funds, which are the retirement nest egg of many ordinary citizens.

Sadly, the main reason for the high price of oil is often overlooked: The dollar isn’t worth what it used to be. Why is that? It’s because Congress, and specifically the House of Representatives, has borrowed so much money to pay for their pet (porkbarrel) projects that other governments are beginning to doubt our ability to repay those debts.

The other reason that doesn’t get talked about enough is the EPA. Independent truck drivers are being forced out of business by the high price of diesel, and it’s only going to get worse with more regulations announced last week. And the more it costs to bring the products to your local store, the more it’s going to cost you to buy them.

If we want the price of gas to come down, we need to tell Congress, and our presidential candidates, to stop spending money and get us out of debt! Then we need to rein in the zealots in the EPA before they turn our economy into a wasteland.

Jeff Tyberg Wisconsin Rapids

W ho w il l ca r e I gave this speech in person to the county board last Tuesday. Since it had no effect on the board and Pat Schmidt even saw fit to snigger at it; I wish to see it published.

The entire population of Polk County should hear this, and those that supported the sale of Golden Age Manor should share in the shame.

Despite all the facts and reasoning to the contrary, you were bound and determined to do away with a valuable county asset no matter how detrimental it was to the community, economy and worst of all, to the elderly and disabled. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

Shame on you for deserting the elderly of this county. For selling a home that provided quality care to all who applied; replacing it with a for-profit enterprise; exposing the indigent and difficult patients to expulsion or rejection. Our parents and grandparents will have to leave their community and families to seek shelter and care far from what and who is familiar. Because this company, who is not of Polk County or even of Wisconsin, can refuse to take them in.

Shame on you for taking up a resolution that speaks In Support of Long Term Care Services in Polk Co. stating that all citizens should have access to (among other things)…nursing homes. It is ludicrous that you would take up this resolution in the same month that you so recklessly

"# t h S e n a t e D i s t r i c t Tax-first crowd wrong on budget shortfall The ink has barely dried on a budget bill that raised taxes and fees hundredsof-millions of dollars, and Democratic leadership in the Legislature and Gov. Doyle are already supporting more taxes and spending to offset a new $655 million budget shortfall.

A national economic slowdown has led to budget shortfalls in most states, including Wisconsin. The tax-first crowd that controls the Senate and governor’s office are proposing more bor-

Sheila Harsdorf

rowing and tax schemes. Now is not the time to take more money out of the pockets of working families struggling with mortgage payments, grocery bills and increasing gas prices.

The budget repair proposal offered by the governor includes a new “sick tax” on

hospitals. The .7-percent hospital tax would increase already escalating health care costs on patients in an effort to get more money from federal coffers.

The state’s transportation fund is also again subject to a raid-and-borrow tactic of $293 million. This loan would lead to over $100 million more in added debt costs for Wisconsin taxpayers. The segregated transportation fund, critical to our state’s infrastructure and economic development, is being used as a piggy bank. In 2005, the Governor used the Frankenstein Veto to take $247 million from the fund and spend it elsewhere with no legislative approval.

remove the one safety net that ensured care for all. Private homes do not have to take in those whose care they deem too expensive.

Shame on you for making 100 faithful employees eligible for BadgerCare and food stamps, by robbing them of their livelihood. Private nursing homes do not recognize the dignity and worth of the good work done by their employees. In fact, Rice has since made known they will substantially reduce the current wages, and have proven me right.

Shame on you for the shabby treatment and the proverbial “don’t let the door hit you in the ….” attitude with your employees. Not even a month’s worth of health insurance to tide them over and only 25 percent of what they’ve accrued in earned sick leave to be paid. When county policy dictates that four months’ aggregate salary is to be paid for incompetent supervisory personnel when they are fired; you should be ashamed of the miserly $500 wrung from you through negotiation to aid these dedicated employees in their transition out of county employment by no fault of their own.

And what havoc has your actions wrought in the workforce that is left to you? What loyalty do any of your remaining employees owe you after witnessing the betrayal and meanness you’ve shown to the employees of Golden Age Manor?

Why would Polk County be a good place to work? What quality of workers will you attract now?

I also wonder what damage you have done to the economic health of the county and the businesses that depend on discretionary spending. One hundred good salaries are now gone. Nobody will be purchasing those high-end products at locally owned businesses now; most certainly not those 100 faithful, caring employees, whom you have thrown to the wolves and to Wal-Mart.

And tell me, where will you go when you are old and become in need of IV treatment, become morbidly obese, or contract Alzheimers? Who then will care?

Roxanne Moore Balsam Lake

More letters, next page

P o l i ti c a l l e tt e r s This is the last issue prior to the April 1 election that the Leader will publish letters to the editor pertaining to candidates. Candidates themselves may write a letter for publication next week to respond to any letters published this week or to clarify information pertaining to their candidacy.

These raids increase taxpayers burden and threaten our economic infrastructure.

Wisconsin state government needs to shrink, not grow. There are ways to reduce spending first. Public employee health care reform can save hundreds of millions of dollars. A real property tax freeze can increase home affordability. Reforming our shared revenue formula to not reward more spending can save tens of millions of dollars.

How do you think t he state should address its new budget shortfall? Call me at 1-800-862-1092 or e-mail me at Sen.Harsdorf@legis.wisconsin.gov.

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

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r K e e p i n g tr a c k The following Polk County Board supervisors voted yes on Nov. 13, 2007, to increase property tax levy by 13.52 percent: Schmidt, Peterson, Caspersen, Rediske, Hughes, Littlefield, Newville, Larsen, Luke, Stoneking, O’Connell, Bergstrom, Gamache and Jepsen.

These big spenders need to be voted out of office on Tuesday, April 1.

Dennis Radcliff Osceola

Scripture first The Bible says for each of us to study the words of the Lord.

A man need not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth. I believe Marvin Caspersen stands more on the values than on dollars – that’s why he believes the way he does. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, of knowledge and understanding. Jesus says, “Without me, you can do nothing.”

Where do you stand in the scripture?

Resser Adams St. Croix Falls

Hold the line on taxes It’s official, our economy has tanked.

The lawmakers in Madison are playing the game of closing revenue shortfalls.

There is no doubt that when the dust settles, we will have some kind of new tax or taxes to fill the gap. These people can never do the right thing and cut their spending to balance the budget.

They cut a little and come up with another new tax that never goes away.

The national and state government literally have no idea what the working taxpayer is enduring in his or her everyday life. When was the last time an elected public official called to see how you were doing? Escalating heat, gasoline and food bills have taken their toll.

We as taxpayer need some grassroots tax relief from our county and local city governments.

They should know, but we may have to tell them to balance their budgets.

This is not the time to borrow more money and increase property or school taxes.

These elected officials are expected to do the right thing. Balancing a budget will require more time on their part and some very tough decisions on what and where to cut expenses. This needs to be done. Taxpayers should call their local government officials and tell them to hold the line on taxes. If nobody listens, go vote on April 1.

For Grimm Fred Grimm is the obvious choice for Polk County Supervisor–District 2.

Fred Grimm is involved in our community.

Fred Grimm has considerable experience with the operation of Polk County.

I first got to know Mr. Grim when I served on the Polk County Board of Supervisors. He had become involved with the Community Coordinated Response committee, that met with the Polk County sheriff, judges, district attorney, public defenders, victim witness coordinator, and others within the legal system, to monitor and make suggestions to each element of the reporting, charging, investigating, trial procedure and handling of domestic sexual assault cases in Polk County. In this capacity he got to know a lot about Polk County, many employees and elected officials.

Currently, Mr. Grimm is a volunteer member of the Comprehensive Planning Committee for the town of West Sweden, a large part of which is part of District 2. Again, what a great way to be involved with the community.

Mr. Grimm has served on the Frederic School Board. School funding is the same as county funding. Some money comes from the state, and a large part from local tax dollars. As the economy continues to falter and revenue for education and government services continues to decline, Mr. Grimm has the experience in budgeting with limited resources to make our tax dollars go farther.

Mr. Grimm volunteers with the Habitat for Humanity program.

Another example of his dedication to the community helping an organization provide housing to people who are not able to afford a home through the usual channels.

Mr. Grimm has served on the Frederic Library Board. The library is an asset to our area both in the literary sense, and as an economic boost to Frederic with the people it brings to town. Library board members also deal with budgeting with limited resources.

Mr. Grimm has been a volunteer for the Frederic swimming pool, helping with spring maintenance, and also has helped with projects at the Frederic Hockey Rink. These are more examples of someone who is truly interested in

William F. Johnson IV, Frederic

T r ai l d e c i s i o n After five years, the WDNR, by not appealing a January court verdict, has concluded that the Amery-Dresser trail will, in fact, be nonmotorized and open to all Polk County residents and visitors.

The dispute over the trail is now settled, and we hope that the community can come together and create a trail that reflects the values and interests of western Wisconsin. We think this outcome is best for our environment, our local economy, and the quality of life that brings people to live in this area. We look forward to working with the city of Amery, local townships, and interested trail groups in order to win grants, clear the trail, and create something we can all be proud of.

This is an historic decision and an historic opportunity to design a trail that fits our rural character and promotes the kind of ecofriendly opportunity that we hope will become an important component of Polk County’s comprehensive plan.

We expect this will be a great attraction for families and nature enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. We can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than biking or walking along such a beautiful, safe and peaceful stretch of land.

Supervisor Diane Stoneking District 16, Polk County Board Town of Garfield

Herschel Brown Frederic

Road maintenance expected to be costly STATEWIDE - Wisconsin motorists are not only going to be shelling out more money to pay for higher gas prices, but also to simply keep their vehicles running due to crumbling roads and highways. That’s according to a new report by a national transportation research group.

The nonprofit, Washington, D.C.,based group called TRIP has reviewed federal highway data to see which major urban areas in the U.S. are suffering from bad roads. The good news is that no city in Wisconsin is in the top 20 for crumbled pavement and potholes. The bad news is that more than half the major roads in Milwaukee and Madison rate either poor or mediocre.

Carolyn Bonifas TRIP says drivers in both cities can expect to shell out roughly $440 annually for vehicle upkeep. She says that’s the cost of

their community.

Mr. Grimm was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Polk County Board. His appointment was approved by a majority of the seated board. He served on the personnel committee and the property, forestry, and recreation committe, and from that has considerable experience in the operation of Polk County government.

In his professional life, Fred Grimm is a management analyst. What would be a better background when overseeing the many departments of Polk County government?

With the national debt in the trillions, the state deficit in the millions, and local governments facing a 2-percent levy cap for 2009, common sense would make it obvious this is the time to have experienced people in charge of our tax dollars.

Fred Grimm has the experience and public service record to serve Frederic and the town of West Sweden well.

I urge you to vote for Fred Grimm for District 2 supervisor on April 1.

additional tire repair and fuel consumption and also the cost of decreased fuel efficiency. She says it means drivers are going to see their auto mechanic more often, and it also may mean “hitting the showroom more often” to possibly pick out a new car.

Bonifas says bad roads are likely to persist as many states are strapped for transportation and building funds.

She says the cost of materials to fix roads is also increasing, and with more and more people driving, the wear and tear is going to be substantial. Vehicle travel in Wisconsin increased 36 percent between 1990 and 2005.

The state’s situation may also be complicated if Gov. Doyle needs to dip into the transportation fund to help cover the budget shortfall. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull)

Supervisor Jeff Peterson District 5, Polk County Board Town of Georgetown

Do we need better county supervisors?

To the voters of Webb Lake, Blaine and Ward 2 of Scott, along with the town of Roosevelt, Dewey and Ward 1 of Rusk, we need your help. On April 1, you have the opportunity to give all the property taxpayers of our county a better level of customer service by voting out of office the current incumbents and voting in Harry Patneaude, and Alvin (AJ) Kangas.

We have over five years experience with the incumbents and we find that there is a big need in improving communications by better listening and informing all the taxpayers on what is really going on at the county level.

Meetings are only held when working people have to work, meeting minutes are too brief and delayed for a month at the Web site, meetings only have com-

ments before the subject and not after or during the discussion. Do they really care about listening and informing us?

Money management of our monies: They ignored a market offer of $462,000 for the Timber Shores county property on Little Trade Lake, assuming they could get double the market rate. Today the property still sits for a buyer. Money management?

Social security folks got a 2.3-percent increase and after they approved a 2 percent levy increase, they went back and increased it to 3.86 percent. Do they really care about these folks?

These nice guys go around telling the other supervisors that our county is the most efficient it can be. When asked to prove it, they have not. When they find a good efficient departments like the sheriff’s and jail, they punish the leaders by an oversight group and take the supervisors of past and place them on other committees. Reward versus punishment?

These are just a few samples of our experiences. We do not have the opportunity you do, to vote them out and the new folks in.

We need a change for better customer service; please help improve all the county taxpayers’ belief in a government of, by and for the people. Please vote for us, by electing Harry Patneaude and Alvin ( AJ) Kangas.

Thanks for listening, please vote!

Rich Nancy Hess Trade Lake

A R e p u b l i c a n f o r G ri m m I’m a Republican, and I’m voting for Fred Grimm for Polk County Board Supervisor.

Fred Grimm is not a Republican–but he is a sound, fiscal conservative. And that’s what we all need in Polk County: a fiscal manager who’s going to keep his eye on our tax dollars.

He’s going to keep an eye on our money and make our tax dollars count–and be accounted! Fred Grimm has the experience and courage to do this.

In the private sector, he earned experience in management systems and consulting. In the public arena, he served as a board member in the Frederic School system. This man knows both worlds. And we all need him.

Polk County is in trouble. It’s facing serious financial challenges. The county departments need help coordinating their budgets. And as strange as it sounds, he thinks we should know where our tax dollars are going.

Let’s put real-world fiscal policies in Polk County and turn things around in Balsam Lake. It can be done. Please elect Fred Grimm for county supervisor.

He can get the job done!

Wayne Anderson West Sweden

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

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

Hraychuck applauds signing care for rape victims into law

MADISON – Rep. Ann Hraychuck, D-Balsam Lake, applauded the signing the Compassionate Care for Rape Victims bill (Assembly Bill 377) on March 13. The bipartisan legislation ensures that all victims of rape will receive the comprehensive emergency care they need at one of their darkest hours.

“I am proud to be a part of the effort that helped increase access to comprehensive emergency care for rape victims in our state,” said Hraychuck.

“Despite broad-based support for this legislation, this bill faced some road blocks, but I am pleased that the

Legislature could come together and deliver this much-needed policy change.”

Assembly Bill 377 requires hospitals to provide victims of rape with all the information they need to make the right choices about their health immediately following their attack. Employees are required to deliver unbiased, factual information on care available to rape victims, inform them of their option to take emergency contraception, and of their option to report their assault and receive a medical examination to gather evidence of the crime.

“Women who go through this horri-

Gov. Doyle thanks Rep. Hraychuck for her hard work on this legislation.

– Photo submitted

ble assault should not be in the dark when it comes to what options are available to them,” said Hraychuck. “A victim’s rights should not depend on which hospital she goes to or what doctor treats her. This new law is the best way to ensure that those victims receive the best care possible when they need it the most.”

The Department of Health and Family Services will monitor hospitals to make sure the law is being followed.

If hospitals do break the law, they will be subject to a fine.- submitted

April 1 ballot to determine Frankenstein Veto’s fate

MADISON – Wisconsin voters will have an opportunity this April 1 to restore fiscal accountability and bring about substantial state budget reform.

Voters statewide will have the final say over a resolution which would prohibit a governor from using his partial veto to create new sentences by combining parts of two or more sentences. The use of cobbling together random words to create altogether new sentences was dubbed the Frankenstein Veto by state Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, R – River Falls.

Armed standoff at the Viking Motel

CAMERON - An armed standoff between law enforcement and a Chetekarea man staying at Viking Motel in Cameron ended without injury approximately eight hours after it began Saturday.

Authorities report that officers from the Cameron Police Department and sheriff’s deputies responded to the Viking Motel on CTH SS at approximately 12:30 p.m.

March 8 after receiving a report of a guest who had locked himself in a room and was refusing to leave the building. Police also believed that the subject, 46-year-old Douglas W. Moses, was likely in possession of a gun. He was on probation at the time based on a felony conviction for reckless use of a firearm. The conviction stemmed from a 2003 Dane County case where the man had clashed with authorities for more than 20 hours in another standoff. Moses had rented a room at the Viking Motel for one night, and staff became concerned when the man hadn’t left his room more than two hours after the usual checkout time. Due to the circumstances surrounding Moses, Sheriff Tom Richie said he decided to call up the county’s Emergency Response Team for added support. The combined law enforcement effort, which also included the Rice Lake Police Department, Chetek Police Department, Wisconsin State Patrol and Wisconsin DNR, set up a perimeter and shut down a segment of highway spanning most of the village’s length. Several nearby businesses temporarily closed. The motel itself was going to be evacuated but its only renters for the day had already left the building to attend a funeral at the time the standoff began. Therefore, no door-todoor evacuation from each of the rooms was deemed necessary. A command site was established at the nearby Cameron Middle School, and the county’s incident control vehicle, along with an armored vehicle from Eau Claire, rolled in for added support. Richie said that law enforcement tried for approximately eight hours to talk Moses into peacefully surrendering, but no progress could be made.

With help from Eau Claire County SWAT members and their armored vehicle, authorities gained access to the motel room. Their entry was primed by the use of flashbangs-distraction devices that produce loud, explosion-like noises. Moses was then taken into custody and found in

“The Frankenstein Veto has made a mockery of how Wisconsin laws are made,” said Harsdorf. “A yes vote April 1 will restore tax-and-spend accountability by banning it.”

In the 2005-07 budget bill, the governor reduced a 752-word section to 20 words that resulted in spending $427 million from the state’s transportation fund no legislator voted for. In the 2007-09 budget bill, the governor once again combined words to create new sentences that resulted in a nearly dou-

bling of the allowable property tax increase without any legislative vote.

“It is time to bring about integrity into our budget process and prevent future tax and fee increases that no Legislator voted for,” said Harsdorf.

Harsdorf has led a three-year effort that culminated in unanimous bipartisan support in the state Senate and a 941 vote in the state Assembly to give voters the opportunity to ban future use of the Frankenstein Veto.

“I am pleased that common sense

Area Ne ws at a Glance possession of a loaded .30-06 rifle. - Barron News-Shield

Pet pit bull drags woman to safety

NEW RICHMOND - Pit bull dogs don’t have a great reputation these days. But a rural Star Prairie dog’s heroic efforts may just give the breed a much-needed public relations boost. Cisco, a 102-pound, 4year-old pit bull, was taken outside to relieve himself at about 11 p.m.

Wednesday, March 5, by his owner’s girlfriend. Martha Sorrells was home alone at the time and knew the dog needed to do his duty. But when Sorrells stepped on an icy patch in the backyard, she slipped and broke her right foot. “I just had on some thin sleep pants and a T-shirt,” Sorrells said. “Even if I yelled, nobody would be able to hear me from the backyard.” As she began to cry from the pain, Cisco began to comfort Sorrells. She told the dog to help her get home, and the pit bull sprung into action. “He knows quite a few words,” said proud owner Fred Rawson.

“He knew I was getting cold, and he knew I needed to get back in the house,” Sorrells said. The dog began pulling Sorrells by the leash toward the home. “He just kept pulling hard,” she said. “It was really a heroic effort on his part.” Once Cisco pulled the woman to the steps of the front door, Sorrells was able to use her hands to climb the three steps and get into the home. “If it wouldn’t have been for him, I would have really been in trouble,” she said, adding that her boyfriend was at a friend’s house playing cards that night, and she didn’t know when he would return. She was very worried about frostbite and hypothermia setting in. Once inside, Sorrells scooted to a chair and gathered herself. She was then able to call 911 for help. She was taken to Westfields Hospital where she spent the night. She now wears a cast on her foot, and doctors expect the recovery time to last from four to six weeks. “Pit bulls get a bad rap sometimes,” Sorrells said. “But it’s all in how you train them and raise them. He’s a very loving dog.” Rawson said he’s owned three pit bulls over the years.

While the breed can cause problems in some cases, he said Cisco is very playful and loving. Cisco was rewarded with extra treats and chew toys following his heroic effort. - New Richmond News

Driver gets 5 years in death of mom

RICE LAKE - When Matthew E. Petersen got behind the wheel of his mother’s car because she was too drunk to drive, family members said he thought he was doing the right thing. Instead, Petersen, who was more than twice the legal limit himself, crashed the car in the town of Stanfold on the night of Oct. 26 and killed his mother, Marcia K. Petersen, 52, of Rice Lake. Petersen, 26, of Rice Lake was sentenced Tuesday, March 11, in Barron County Circuit Court to five years in prison for homicide by intoxicated use of vehicle. The maximum penalty for the conviction is 25 years in prison. When authorities arrived at the scene, Peterson told them his mother had been driving.

Her body lay in the direction of the driver’s seat. But the seat belt bruises on Marcia’s body told a different story.

Bruising on her upper body ran from her right shoulder to her left hip, indicating that she had been seated in the passenger seat of the vehicle. Authorities learned that Petersen’s driving privileges had been revoked for a prior OWI offense.

Petersen’s sisters begged Judge James Babler not to send the brother they described as unselfish, loving and a “big teddy bear” to prison. In a joint recommendation, District Attorney Angela Holmstrom and assistant public defender Jessie Weber recommended that Babler impose and stay a four-year prison term and 10 years of extended supervision.

They asked that Petersen be placed on 10 years of probation with one year in jail with work release for the homicide conviction. That’s because Petersen got honest a day before his initial hearing on the charge and confessed to an investigator that he was the driver, they said. “He came forward on his own,” Holmstrom said. “He confessed and took responsibility for his actions.” She said his doing so spoke volumes about his character - more than his actions did on the night of the crash. - Rice Lake Chronotype

Tony Depot robber awaits sentencing

LADYSMITH - The last of four persons accused in last June’s brutal assault and robbery at Tony Depot is awaiting sentence before Circuit Judge Eugene Harrington. Regina A. Topinka, 42, Exeland, on Thursday, March 6, pleaded

prevailed over partisanship on this critical reform,” said Harsdorf. “The partial veto was never intended to allow a governor to enact laws not passed by the Legislature. It is a credit to the courage of my Democratic partners like state Sen. Tim Carpenter and the persistence of my Republican colleagues that voters can bring about vital budget reform with a yes vote on April 1.” from the office of Senator Harsdorf

no contest to robbery and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A presentence investigation was ordered and the defendant was remanded to jail. Charges of false imprisonment, theft, battery, and another count alleging contributing to delinquency of a minor were dismissed. In other cases, Topinka pleaded no contest to delivering illegal articles to an inmate on Sept. 20, 2007. Another identical count was dismissed. Also dismissed were four counts of felony bail jumping and one count alleging obstructing an officer.

Former Bruce resident, Merlyn M. Dailey, 29, is also awaiting sentencing. He will appear on March 17 before Judge Frederick A. Henderson after pleading guilty to robbery with use of force, a felony, for which he faces a jointly recommended sentence of 10 years in prison before he will again be on extended supervision. The convicted felon, who was on probation at the time, punched, choked and kicked a Tony Depot clerk during the robbery June 10, 2007. Daily resides at Fox Lake Correctional Institute where he is in jail after his probation was revoked on a snowmobile theft sentence. Anthony R. Bianco, 17, Ladysmith, who is Topinka’s son, was sentenced in July to nine months in jail and two years of probation as part of a two-year deferred prosecution agreement for his role in the case. Bianco, still in jail, is now facing felony charges for a crime he allegedly committed last September while in jail with the help of his mother. He is accused of lowering an envelope from a small hole to the side of a jail window so Topinka could smuggle him some wintergreen chewing tobacco.

She has pleaded no contest to doing that and is awaiting sentence. A 15-year-old boy involved in the robbery has gone through juvenile court and was convicted of theft and sent to Lincoln Hills School near Wausau. According to a criminal complaint, Bianco stayed in a van while the three others robbed the store where Topinka had worked until October of 2005. More than $6,000 was taken by the three who, wearing ski masks and rubber gloves, went directly to where the money was kept. Daily told an investigator that he punched and kicked the clerk multiple times and tried to choke her, then taped her hands to her face with duct tape after she struggled and pulled off his mask. Ladysmith News

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

L O C A L

H E A D L I N E S

Obey visits St. Croix Falls for update on WWTP

ST. CROIX FALLS – Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey, D-Wis., was in St. Croix Falls Monday, March 17, for a briefing on proposed improvements to the community’s wastewater treatment plant. Obey secured $440,000 in federal funds last year to allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to work with the city of St. Croix Falls to plan the project.

“We’ve been working to help renovate St. Croix Falls wastewater treatment plant to meet the city’s growing needs and protect the St. Croix River while easing the burden on local property taxpayers who would have to foot the whole bill otherwise,” said Obey.

“I’m glad to be here today to see firsthand how the Corps of Engineers and the city plan to move forward.”

St. Croix Falls existing wastewater plant - which feeds into the St. Croix River – must be improved to meet Wisconsin DNR’s environmental standards. In the 2005 Omnibus appropriations bill, Obey secured authorization for the Army Corps of Engineers to help St. Croix Falls with the project.

Obey met with city officials at the scenic Overlook Deck and then traveled to the treatment plant site for a tour. Obey also stopped in Balsam Lake Monday for an update on the Unity School District’s Learning, Enrichment and

Congressman Dave Obey visited St. Croix Falls Monday to tour the wastewater treatment plant. He is pictured at the Overlook Deck during his visit where he is shown speaking with St. Croix Falls Mayor Brad Foss, and superintendent of St. Croix Falls Schools Glenn Martin, while St. Croix Falls community members and staff listen and look on. –Photo by Tammi Milberg Discovery program. Obey secured $430,554 in federal funds last year for

the CESA 11 After-School Consortium of which Unity School District is a mem-

ber. –submitted

Luck band meets tours Capitol On Friday, March 7, the Luck High School Band visited the state Capitol after performing at the Kohl Center for the WIAA State Boys Basketball Tournament.

Rep. Hraychuck attended the Luck game that morning, and then met up with the band prior to their tour of the Capitol. – Photo submitted

Volunteer open house and orientation at Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – An open house for new and returning Festival Theatre volunteers has been scheduled at the theater for Tuesday, April 8, starting at 7 p.m. A broad range of opportunities exist for adults of all ages, as well as teenagers, who are interested in supporting the efforts of the only professional theater in the upper St. Croix River Valley.

“A volunteer task force has been meeting over the last few months to review and update all volunteer job descriptions,” says Beth Hartman, president of Festival’s board of directors. “Whether a supporter wishes to work behind the scenes with sets, props and costumes or out in the public sector providing public relations support, ushering, or working in the

Mezzanine Café, we have many areas of service available. Volunteering at Festival Theatre is a great way to learn new skills, make use of your talents and broaden your social life. Plus, we need your help to grow and thrive as a nonprofit professional theater!”

The open house is just one hour in length and will begin promptly at 7 p.m. with a brief welcome by the Task Force followed by casual conversation within several general areas of service such as: technical theater, front-ofhouse activities, marketing and public relations, and building and grounds.

The theater is located at 210 N. Washington Street in downtown St. Croix Falls.

To learn more about Festival Theatre, check out their Web site at www.festi-

Festival Theatre was founded in 1990 and has produced professional theater at the historic auditorium in downtown St. Croix Falls every season since 1996.

– Photo submitted

valtheatre.org. Registration is not necessary for the open house, but it is appreciated. Call 715-483-3387 or 888-

887-6002 for additional information or send an e-mail to boxoffice@festivaltheatre.org.

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

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Congressman Obey visits Webster School

by Toni Zappa and Christina Becker (Editor’s note: Zappa and Becker are student staff members of the Webster Schools District newspaper, The Bridge. Both are high school sophomores. In addition to their work as reporters, Zappa does layout and Becker does editing for their paper. At the request of The Inter-County Leader, they gave permission to print this story.)

WEBSTER - Congressman David Obey, Rep. from the 7th Congressional District, was a guest at the Webster Schools on Monday, and he was especially interested in learning about the schools’ After 3 Program. Obey was responsible for securing the federal grant that funds this program.

After-school programs are a critical time for youth, great opportunities for children to learn and grow. The programs also help improve academic achievement and reach academic goals.

They also help relieve the stresses of today’s working families. Every day between the hours of 3 and 7 p.m., over 8 million children are left alone and unsupervised. After-school programs can offer safe, structured activities to these children. They convene regularly

in the hours after school to offer activities that help students learn new skills and develop into responsible adults.

After Obey took a small tour of the schools, he met with these student reporters to discuss the After 3 Program.

When the students asked for an interview, he graciously consented and searched out a place where they could visit comfortably and uninterrupted. A small interview took place, which helped them understand more about the origin of the after-school programs in the area.

Obey stated, “The after-school programs were started when President Clinton was in office. The committee put about $600 million into the budget to get the programs started.”

He continued, “President George Bush now wants to stop all the funding and let after-school programs completely lapse, so we do not do any funding through the committee. I do, however, donate money to CESA stations all around the area, and they disperse the money out to the schools for the purpose of after-school programs.”

“The reason that after-school programs are so important,” said Obey, “is

Congressman Obey took time during his visit to let Toni Zappa (L) and Christina Barker (R) interview him for The Bridge.

Dawn Schultz (right), K-8 art teacher in the Webster Schools, told Congressman Obey about her work with the students in the schools After 3 Program. that we need to do anything to improve student’s academic achievements and goals. It is also a very good way to get students and adult authority figures together because adults help shape what students do immensely.”

He added, “The programs first started out very small but have expanded over the past 10 years.

“I have witnessed many of the programs throughout the areas (of the district) that I have represented for a long time. However,” he said,” I do not only have dealings with the areas for educational purposes, but I also deal with environment, law enforcement and help to control the usage of meth.”

During his visit to the Webster Schools, Congressman Obey heard comments from many of those who work in the After 3 Program or who benefit from it. After Robin Hallanger (second from L), second-grade teacher, had made comments, Lori Ward (C), teacher in the 4-year-old kindergarten program, described how federal funding was supporting her work. Also pictured are Shelly Moen (second from R) who talked about the benefits of the afterschool programs for working parents. Superintendent of the Webster Schools, Jim Erickson, is far right.

Christina Barker (L) and Toni Zappa (R) shared the latest edition of the Lynn Stubbe (R), after-school programs coordinator for the Webster Webster Schools newspaper, The Bridge, with Congressman David Obey Schools, presented Congressman Obey with a special thank-you card from when he visited the Webster Schools Monday afternoon. – Photos by Carl the schools students. It thanked him for securing the grant money which Heidel funds the After 3 Program.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Locks of love donation

On Saturday, March 8, sisters, Kendra Mosay and Julia Buck (fifth- and fourth grader at Frederic Elementary) dontated hair for Locks of Love. They are the daughters of David and Brenda Buck. – Photo submitted

Kohl sets office hours in Spooner SPOONER/SIREN/ST. CROIX FALLS — Marjorie Bunce, a representative of Sen. Herb Kohl, will be in Spooner, Siren and St. Croix Falls on Thursday, March 27, to meet with constituents.

“If you are having a problem with a federal program or agency, or have an opinion on an issue before Congress, please let me know by meeting with my regional representative,” Kohl said.

Bunce will be at the Spooner City Hall, 515 Summit Street, in the council

chambers, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the Burnett County Government Center, 7410 CTY K, in room 162 from 1:30 until 2:30 p.m., and at the St. Croix Falls City Hall and Tourism Information Center, 710 Hwy. 35 from 4 to 5 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

Bunce can also be contacted at Kohl’s regional office at 402 Graham Ave., Eau Claire. The phone number is 715-832-8424. — from the office of Sen. Herb Kohl

Siren Library fundraiser

Webster Village looks to spring cleaning

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER - Webster Village trustees looked ahead to spring cleaning during the March meeting held Wednesday, March 12.

Notices will be sent out in the April water bill that all appliances and all vehicles not running or not registered must be removed from village yards.

A brush dump for village residents will open later this spring, probably mid-May. Approximately 60 dog licenses have not been renewed for 2008. A reminder will be sent to the dog owners that they have until April 1 to renew without a late fee. If the resident no longer has the animal, they are asked to inform the village clerk of that fact.

The trustees showed a generous spirit in other agenda business. Paul Cyms received a $172.19 credit on a water bill.

Earlier this winter his water pipe broke, resulting in a large bill. Last month Cyms received a $159 credit on the sewer portion of the bill.

Two bids were opened for bodywork on a village truck. The job was awarded to the village business, even though this bid was higher than a bid from outside the village. The reason given was to award business within the village when at all possible.

In other business An ad will be placed in newspapers requesting mowing bids. Bid opening will be during the April meeting.

Hold the brats Don’t fire up the grill just yet. Balmy temperatures in recent days have suggested that the grilling season might be nearing. But Monday night Mother Nature changed that thinking when she dumped a few inches of fresh snow on the northland. - Photo by Carl Heidel

Webster royalty at home show (L to R) Kathy Koball, a member of the committee that set up the March 15 Siren Library fundraiser, along with Donna Tjader and Karen Howe, looked over items on the silent-bid table. A total of $4,600 was raised during the fundraiser, which included a $1,200 donation from the Siren Area Lions Club, a dedicated supporter of the library.

Retired Siren School librarian Sheila Staples filled in for current librarian Bev Carlsen during the library fundraiser dinner and silent auction at the school Saturday, March 15. Raffle tickets were also sold and donated items given out to those who held winning tickets. Money raised during the evening will go toward the purchase of new books, particularly award-winning new fiction for grades K-12.

Arrangement for new shelving in the library is already being made. — Photos by Nancy Jappe

Webster 2008 queen and first princess (L to R) Brittany Flatten and Olivia Main attended the 2008 home show held at the Webster school gym Saturday, March 15. – Photo by Sherill Summer

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MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

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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

Fourth-Annual All-Leader Boys Basketball Team

by Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld FREDERIC – Senior leadership played a dominant role on our fourthannual All-Leader Boys Basketball Team. We regret that certain quality players could not be mentioned due to space and other limitations. But we chose what we believe are some of the best basketball players in The InterCounty Leader’s seven-team coverage area including Frederic, Grantsburg, Luck, Siren, St. Croix Falls, Unity and Webster.

Congrats to our coach of the year, Rick Giller, for a fantastic, and memo-

rable season of basketball, and to MVP Brian Thill of Webster. Both are very deserving of the honor.

Season stats, and experience played a significant role in the choices we’ve made. We also chose at least one significant playmaker on every team, even though there are more than just one.

Several athletes will graduate this spring, but there are several exciting players returning next season. Those who might not be on our list this season have a significant chance to make it again next year. Thank you coaches and athletes for an awesome year.

Honorable Mentions

Frederic Zach Anderson Ben G. Anderson Grantsburg Shawn Pavlik Ben Larson Luck Harry Severson-Dickinson Carson Giller St. Croix Falls Ryan Larson Trygve Chinander

Siren Jordan Potvin Brennen Moose Unity Lance Peper Chad Strilzuk Webster Dylan Geske AJ Holmquist

First team coach and post players Coach

Rick Giller Luck

Name: Rick Giller School: Luck Comments: It was a no brainer in picking coach Rick Giller as our coach of the year. He took the Cardinal boys back to the state tournament in Madison after a 35-year wait, and the team’s second conference championship in a row. His team finished 11-1 in the conference with an overall 23-3 record.

Brian Thill Webster

Name: Brian Thill School: Webster Comments: If you were at any of the Webster games, you know as well as anyone else that Brian Thill is a powerful forward for their team. He would be a valuable member to any team with his ability to get to the basket and put in many shots, while also receiving offensive and defensive rebounds every game.

Forward

Brennan Olson Luck

Name: Brennan Olson School: Luck Comments: He was quick to get to the basket, and that made him punishing on offense.

Brennan Olson averaged almost 13 points per game and defensively came down with with an average of eight rebounds per game.

Olson will get another chance to help the Cards get back to state next year.

Center

Tyler Petersen Luck

Name: Tyler Petersen School: Luck Comments: Luck senior Tyler Petersen will be tough to replace on the Cardinals roster next season. The 6’ 7” center played at the top of his game against Suring at the state tournament with 11 points, nine rebounds and three blocks.

Petersen averaged 11 points, 7.7 rebounds and had 59 blocks.

Forward

David Lund St. Croix Falls

Name: David Lund School: St. Croix Falls Comments: St. Croix Falls senior David Lund was a force for the Saints this season. Lund was elected to the West Lakeland all-conference basketball team, and provided the Saints with senior leadership. It wasn’t uncommon for Lund to lead the team in rebounds, and at times in points.

Ryan Larson St. Croix Falls

Name: Ryan Larson School: St. Croix Falls Comments: Saints forward Ryan Larson is an up-and-coming Saints player that could be turning some heads over the next couple of seasons.

The sophomore grabbed six or more rebounds in nearly every game this season and it wasn’t uncommon to see him score 10 or more points per game.

First team most valuable player, guards and rookie Most Valuable

Point Guard

Cody Richert Luck

Name: Cody Richert School: Luck Comments: The senior guard led the Cardinals with an average of just over 13 points per game.

Richert also led the team with 60 assists, and was a dominant player on the defensive end with 73 steals, which was also a team high. He also led the team with a .844 freethrow shooting percentage.

Shooting Guard

Brian Gibbs Webster

Name: Brian Gibbs School: Webster Comments: Brian was a good name for the Webster Tigers, with Brian Gibbs as shooting guard and Brian Thill as forward.

Gibbs was another key player, being a top scorer for his team during most of their games. He could bring the ball down the court confidently and shoot it up inside or outside the arc.

Rookie

Second team coach and post players Coach

Randy Hedrick Webster

Name: Randy Hedrick School: Webster Comments: Once again Webster coach Randy Hedrick was able to take his team to the sectional finals game. Hedrick had a group of mostly seniors this season who will all move on after graduation.

He will move this next group of kids into the seniors spots in hopes of making it just as far next season.

Mitchell Klatt Luck

Name: Mitchell Klatt School: Luck Comments: Luck senior Mitchell Klatt played a big role in the Cardinals memorable season this year, not only as a quality guard, but also as an important team leader.

Klatt improved steadily as the season progressed and was noted by coach Rick Giller for his poise and experience on the team.

Forward

Trent Bonneville Grantsburg

Name: Trent Bonneville School: Grantsburg Comments: Trent Bonneville was not only put on the West Lakeland all-conference first team, but also was named the Grantsburg team’s most valuable player.

Bonneville average 9.9 points per game and 8.6 rebounds per game for his team this season. He will have next year to keep improving his numbers.

Kyle Swenson Frederic

Name: Kyle Swenson School: Frederic Comments: Frederic senior Kyle Swenson had another break-out season as he led the Vikings with 16.1 points per game as well as 4.3 rebounds per game. Swenson hit many of his points from the perimeter, posting 42 percent by hitting 48 of 115 attempts. He also averaged 1.4 steals per game.

Center

Justin Bader Unity

Name: Justin Bader School: Unity Comments: It wasn’t uncommon for Unity senior Justin Bader to score over 20 points per game and dominate the boards both offensively and defensively. Bader was also selected to the 200708 West Lakeland allconference basketball team.

Forward

Charlie Brown Siren

Name: Charlie Brown School: Siren Comments: One of Siren’s leading scorers this season was junior Charlie Brown. Brown scored an average of 13.5 points per game in the conference games.

He was a force under the basket that helped them make it to the regional final game this season.

He will again show what he can do next season.

Tyler Myers Grantsburg

Name: Tyler Myers School: Grantsburg Comments: Although Tyler Myers was not a sixth man on the Grantsburg team, but a starter, he deserves recognition for what he accomplished for his team. Myers was the Pirates No. 1 leading scorer with 13.3 points per game. He also had 5.5 rebounds per game and was named West Lakeland all-conference.

Second team guards, sixth man and most improved Most Improved

Point Guard

Shooting Guard

Adam Daniels Siren

Name: Adam Daniels School: Siren Comments: Adam Daniels almost made a career of 1,000 points this season but didn’t quite make it there. Daniels scored 16.8 points per game and 67 total points throughout the conference games during his senior year. He made the first team all-conference team for the West Lakeland Conference.

Sixth Man

S P O RT S R E S U LTS D E A D L I N E S : WE D N E S D AY – M O N DAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TU E S DAY: 7 a.m. on Wed nes d ay. Mi s s ed d ead l i nes mean no co verage t hat week !

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

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Friberg takes flight

Roseville, Minn., native hopeful for future in women's ski jumping

by Marty Seeger ROSEVILLE, Minn. – Karin Friberg is an optimistic 18-year-old ski jumper who has been working toward an opportunity to someday participate in the winter Olympics. The daughter of Dan and Kathy Friberg began her ski jumping career at age 11, and began downhill skiing at around age 4. Her father, Dan, is a 1980 graduate of Frederic High School and his parents, Arvid and Marge Friberg, as well as his brother Kay Friberg, live in the Frederic area.

Friberg is one of the top 10 women ski jumpers in the nation, and recently wrapped up a busy winter of ski jumping across the nation and in Europe. Her most recent trip was last weekend in Park City, Utah where she placed fifth among nine other women.

Park City is the training grounds and home of the U.S women’s ski jumping team.

“I was very pleased with my jumping while I was out there,” Karin Friberg Friberg said in a recent phone conversation.

It went well because she competed against those currently on the U.S. women’s ski team. She missed fourth place by a mere point. In late February, Friberg represented the U.S. at the World Junior Ski Championships in Poland. She placed 29th overall out of 37 competitors, accomplishing her goal of placing in the top 30, which is the cutoff in order to qualify in those competitions. She was also just one of four women age 19 and under to participate in the Junior World Competition. She also achieved two third-place finishes at Lake Placid this past winter, which is another one of her many notable accomplishments.

Based on her most recent accomplishments at Park City, Friberg says she could have a chance to make the Olympics in the ski jumping event, if the Olympics were to be held in the very near future. Typically a team chooses four to five athletes to participate in the Olympics, but since the winter Olympics began in 1924 those teams have all been comprised of men.

“Ski jumping is the only winter Olympic sport that prohibits women from participating,” her father said.

It's an issue that’s certainly been on

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Karin Friberg catches some air in a Junior World Competition in Europe. Photos from www.ladies-skijumping.com unless otherwise noted

though Karin says that can be very difficult to have at times.

“You have to be very disciplined, and a lot of times its hard for me to (be disciplined) because when I’m at home I pretty much train by myself,” she said.

Ski jumping is a year-round sport for Friberg, who attends Concordia Academy in Roseville. When she’s away from home, her school posts assignments online so she can continue to keep up with her studies. She actually does more training in the summer, where athletes train on an artificial surface.

Friberg’s 13 year-old brother, Christian, is also a ski jumper, and started ski jumping before Karin. Christian recently finished 17th among 31 competitors in the Junior Olympics held in Ishpeming, Mich.

Both Karin and Christian are part of the St. Paul Ski Club, which is part of what is known as the Central Division.

See Friberg/ page 20

Extra Points

The Friberg photo at the Silvermine ski jump in Eau Claire. Pictured (L to R): Christian, Kathy, Dan and Karin. - Photo by Kris Edlund the minds of the U.S. women’s ski team, as well as Friberg’s, who hopes to have a chance to participate in the 2010 Winter Olympics set to take place in Vancouver, Canada.

“Obviously, I’m in support of it,” Friberg explained. “I kind of take it as it goes, you know, I guess what will happen will happen.”

The 2010 winter Olympic games in Vancouver could be the first in Olympic history to offer ski jumping as an Olympic sport for women. Women’s hockey, bobsledding, luge or speed skating, just to name a few, offer events for women, but not ski jumping.

According to www.wsj2010.com, (a Web site advocating women’s rights in Olympic ski jumping), it is: “(In Canada) against Federal and Provincial law for the Government to use public funds for venues that exclude women.

While Friberg believes that its not easy

Karin Friberg is shown here in one of her many events that took place in Europe.

to change some peoples minds, she’s confident that the sport is on the right path.

“Women have the numbers, and we have the capability, its just convincing people that we’re beyond qualified to at least hold our own event.”

Friberg remains optimistic about what the future holds, and has lots of time to improve on her skills as a ski jumper. Ski jumping not only takes practice and skill, but discipline, even

Karin Friberg's brother Christian Friberg also competes in ski jumping. Here he jumps in Eau Claire on an 88 meter ski jump. - Photo by Kris Edlund

••• TURTLE LAKE – The Turtle Lake Booster Club is hosting a youth wrestling tournament for pre-K through eighth grade on Saturday, March 29. Weigh-ins are from 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m. and the entry fee is $10.

Team trophies will be awarded to the top five teams, and team scoring is based on the top 20 finishers.

Individual medals will be handed out for all placings. All grades will have four-man round robin brackets.

Certified referees will be used for Sixth-, seventh and eighth-grade wrestlers, and folkstyle rules apply for all matches. Questions contact Ben Pringle at 986-4470 or 822-8424 evenings. - Marty Seeger with submitted information ••• LEADER LAND – The Wisconsin Badgers men's basketball game versus California State Fullerton can be heard on WXCE 1260 AM beginning at 8 p.m. on March 20. Milwaukee Brewers baseball versus the Giants is being broadcast on March 22 at 3 p.m. on WXCE 1260, as well as the March 23 game against the Diamondbacks, which begins at 3 p.m.

••• LEADER LAND – Twins games that are being broadcast on WLMX 104.9 FM can be heard on the following dates. On March 20 the Twins versus Reds game begins at 6 p.m.

The Twins versus Phillies game is at 12 noon. on March 21. The Twins versus Cardinals game begins on March 22 at 12 noon. The Twins versus Orioles game is on March 23 at 12 noon. The Twins versus Cardinals game is on March 24 at 12 p.m. The March 25 game versus the Pirates is at 12 p.m., and the March 26 game versus the Tampa Bay Rays begins at 12 noon. - Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to go in Extra Points! – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete who will be playing collegiate sports in 2008 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

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The Unity wrestling father/son challenge

Joe “Knee Pad” Swanson took on Charlie “The Crusher,” who overpowered Swanson by sheer size and weight.

There were no easy matches this year in the fifth-annual father/son wrestling challenge held Thursday, March 13. Pictured is Danny “Concrete” McKinney, who was forced off the mat due to a cut above the eye during a match against his son Dennis “The Menace” McKinney. The match resulted in a tie. Door prizes were awarded to lucky fans in the audience in between matches. - Photos by Marty Seeger

Todd Nutter “Butter” drew a tough matchup against officer Eric “Tap Out” Swan, who is skilled in the martial arts. Nutter was thrown in an almost instant headlock, and lost.

Danny “Concrete” McKinney reacts after finding out that he has to go into an overtime match against son Dusty “Roads” McKinney. Concrete had to wrestle both Dustin and Dennis last season, but the wrestling didn’t get any easier this year.

Chris “Mr. Basketball” Nelson (R) gets ready to take his son Luke “Toothless” Nelson (L) to the mat. The photo to the right features "Mr. Basketball" in proper basketball wrestling atire.

Unity wrestlers wowed the crowd with some of the tricks they use to warm up in practice.

Dennis McKinney might have won an award for best flip if awards were actually handed out.

A mystery “Masked Avenger” who turned out to be none other than senior Chad Strilzuk wrestled state qualifier Ben “Big Blue” Hendricks. It was Tim “I Can” Reed and Adrian “Concussion” Davis said by coach Mark Ferguson that Strilzuk once wrestled a tight match, with Reed winning by just one wore his singlet to church after a proud tournapoint. ment win as a youth wrestler. Strilzuk hadn’t wrestled since then, but wrestled strong against Hendricks.

Jared “Habenero” Peper tried to get an escape over Danny “Superman” / “Red Hot” Peper, but dad seemed to have the upper hand for a good portion of the match. Coach Mark Ferguson announced to the crowd that Jared found his mom’s shorts to wear for the match.

It was fortunate that the father/son wrestling challenge had EMT Virgil Hansen. He came to the aid of Eric Tourville who was thrown by cousin Josh Eaton Daryl “The Peril” Hendricks sported a stylish “Supper” in a drudge match. The match was quickly called and “Supper” won by injury default. Hansen was green mullet to take on his son “Killin’” Dylan Hendricks. again needed for another incident later in the event.

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Luck senior/faculty basketball game

LUCK – Luck’s annual Seniors versus Faculty basketball game was held on Monday, March 17. Twelve members of the Class of 2008 took on 12 members of the faculty (and spouses) in a laughterfilled and energetic contest.

Nine seniors put the ball through the hoop, while eight staff members made shots through the net.

The leading scorer for the evening was Cody Richert with three field goals and two 3-pointers.

Math teacher Jeff Brenizer led the faculty with two long 3-pointers and two field goals.

In the end of the evening the faulty defeated the seniors, 44–40.

Collin Svoboda won the 3-point shooting contest at the end of the evening. – Submitted

This year’s basketball team seniors are pictured. Front row (L to R): Briana Stage, Chelsea Rasmussen, Sarah Petersen and Megan Hacker. Back row: Josh Zappa, Tyler Petersen, Casey Hatten, Brett Holdt, Jordan Gross, Cody Richert, Kody Erickson and Mitchell Klatt. – Photos by Lori Nelson

Senior Casey Hatten attempts to shoot as Paul Denny and Tyler Pilz block.

Lakeland All Conference

2007-08 Boys Lakeland All-Conference Basketball Team

2007-08 Girls Lakeland All-Conference Basketball Team

EAST

EAST

Name

Joey Lamoureux Kyle Schneider Brandon Crank Zach Burch Eric Hrdlicka Greg Kopacz David Hegeholz Dalton Atwood Dyllan Smith Casey Olson Logan Butterfield Mike Farrell

The 2007-08 boys West Lakeland All Conference Basketball Team includes front row (L to R): Kyle Swenson (senior, Frederic) Adam Daniels (senior, Siren), Cody Richert (senior, Luck), Tyler Petersen (senior, Luck) and Brennan Olson (junior, Luck). Back row: Tyler Myers (junior, Grantsburg), Trent Bonneville (junior, Grantsburg), Trygve Chinander (senior, SCF), David Lund (senior, SCF) and Brian Thill (senior, Webster).

Left inset is Justin Bader (senior, Unity) and right inset is Brian Gibbs (senior, Webster). – Photos by Marty Seeger

Vance Friendshuh Josh Wickboldt Matt Thayer Derek Effertz Ryan Zemke Jordan LaBlanc Kyle Wick Tim Flanagan Stewart Campbell Zach Haynes Nick Goodremote Jackson Hinde Brennan Olson Tyler Peterson Cody Richert Brian Thill Brian Gibbs Trent Bonneville Tyler Myers Trygve Chinander David Lund Justin Bader Kyle Swenson Adam Daniels

School

Year

Lake Holcombe Lake Holcombe Lake Holcombe Birchwood Birchwood Flambeau Bruce Bruce Cornell Cornell New Auburn New Auburn

Senior Junior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Junior Junior Senior Senior Junior

Name Beth Alberson Whitney Verdegan Lindsay Brost Sue Bischoff Courtney Wanish Courtney Jensen Jenny Welsey Maria Demovsek Corey Birdsill Hope Villiard Amy Suralski

Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior

Becca Paulsen Brittni Hover Missy Trepanier Dannielle Reindahl Anna Walther Elizabeth Jacobs Hillary Friendshuh Cassie Reed Ashley Albano Taylor Fellbaum Ashlee Blegen Brittany Rassbach

Junior Senior Senior Senior Senior Junior Junior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior

Janey Emery Carley Emery Jennifer Mitchell Erin Schmidt Becca Anderson Melanie Chenal Beth Baer Samantha Hogle Kortney Morrin Andrea Thompson Taryn Pilz Marissa Campeau

CENTRAL

Clear Lake Clear Lake Clear Lake Clayton Clayton Clayton Turtle Lake Turtle Lake Cameron Northwood Prairie Farm Prairie Farm

WEST

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

2007-08 Boys Lakeland Honorable Mention Kurtis Johnson Ryan Gerber Derick Rubenzer Levi Felske Curtis Drohman Kent Velie Cody Schneider Tyler Marshall Troy Bemis Marcu Olesiak Dustin Van Winkle Ryan Ewert A.J. Holmquist Dylan Geske Ben Larson Mitchell Klatt

2007-08 girls West Lakeland All Conference Basketball Team includes front row (L to R): Jennifer Mitchell (senior, Siren) Carley Emery (freshman, Siren) and Janey Emery (junior, Siren). Middle row: Samantha Hogle (senior, Webster), Kortney Morrin (freshman, Grantsburg) and Beth Baer (senior, Webster). Back row: Melanie Chenal (senior, Frederic), Becca Anderson (junior, Frederic), Erin Schmidt (senior, Frederic) and Taryn Pilz ( sophomore, Luck). Left inset is Marissa Campeau (sophomore, SCF) and right inset is Andrea Thompson (senior, Unity).

EAST

Bruce Bruce Flambeau Flambeau Flambeau Lake Holcombe Lake Holcombe Lake Holcombe Birchwood Weyehaeuser Winter Winter

WEST

Webster Webster Grantsburg Luck

Name

School

Year

School Year Flambeau Senior Flambeau Senior Flambeau Senior Flambeau Senior Flambeau Sophomore Cornell Senior Lake Holcombe Senior Lake Holcombe Junior Birchwood Junior Bruce Senior Winter Junior

CENTRAL

Clayton Clayton Clayton Clayton Cameron Cameron Clear Lake Clear Lake Northwood Northwood Northwood Prairie Farm

Senior Senior Senior Sophomore Junior Senior Junior Senior Senior Senior Junior Senior

WEST

Siren Junior Siren Freshman Siren Senior Frederic Senior Frederic Junior Frederic Senior Webster Senior Webster Senior Grantsburg Freshman Unity Senior Luck Sophomore St. Croix Falls Sophomore

2007-08 Girls Lakeland Honorable Mention

Amanda Smith Cari Ameson Adrienne Grimm Mavua Schwagel McKenna Missfeldt Ashley Mlejnek Casey Thorson Lynne Granica Heidi Czyscon Brianne Moon Katie Weiss Brittany George Renee Wirth Steph Clark Ashley Anderson Alex Tschida Lynette Renberg Kelly Wondra Jenny Benoy Sasha Bryant Amanda Alberg Megan Finch Laura Skifstad Brianna Schmid

EAST

Cornell Cornell New Auburn New Auburn Lake Holcombe Birchwood Birchwood Bruce

CENTRAL

Cameron Cameron Clear Lake Prairie Farm Priaire Farm Shell Lake Shell Lake Turtle Lake

WEST

Siren Frederic St. Croix Falls St. Croix Falls Webster Grantsburg Grantsburg Unity

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On March 8 and 9, the Burnett Blizzard team took fourth place in the state Squirt B Hockey Tournament in Waupun. Pictured front row: Garrett Hunter. Second row (L to R): David Doty, Hunter Schmidt, Heather Struck, Jake Smith and Tanner Buck. Third row: Andrew Ruiz, Max Linquist, Jordan Larson, Steven Holdt, Tanner Lee and Sophie Phernetton. Back row: Coaches Gary Smith, Tom Anderson, Dean Phernetton and Ruben Ruiz. – Photo submitted

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The Burnett County Bulldogs wrestled in St. Croix Falls on Saturday, March 15, and took first place as a team in the tournament. Six of the Bulldogs will be headed for Madison this weekend to wrestle in the Wisconsin State Tournament. Pictured are as follows: Front row (L to R): Brett Anderson (fourth grade), Josh Glover (fifth grade), Elliot Swenson (first grade), Spencer Louis (fourth grade), Elijah Northquest (third grade) and Alex Ringler (kindergarten). Second Row: coach Trevor Brewer, Nick Britton (sixth grade), Luke Anderson (first grade), Colin Jeske (first grade), Clayton Beachler (kindergarten), Cahl Ringler (third grade) and coach Tori Jeske. Third Row: coach Jake Nichols, Taedon Nichols (prekindergarten), Tony Britton (sixth grade), Tyrell Brande (first grade), Joseph Gaffney (sixth grade) and coach Joel Glover. Back row: Austin Swenson (sixth grade), Dakota Schultz (third grade), Tristan Brewer (fifth grade) and Jamie Glover (prekindergarten). – Photo submitted

A R E A B O W L I N G R E S U LT S Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: D & B’s 65, The Hee Haws 55.5, Spare-Us 54, Sandbaggers 51, Hot Shots 46, Gems 43.5.

Women’s games: Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 223, Barb Morgan (D&Bs) 209, Dorothy Barfknecht (Hot Shots) 176.

Women’s series: Gail Linke (The Hee Haws) 575, Barb Morgan (D&B’s) 532, Dorothy Barfknecht (Hot Shots) 501.

Men’s games: Bert Meyer (D&Bs) 203, Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 190, Brian Bistram (D&Bs) 187.

Men’s series: Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 513, Brian Bistram (D&Bs) 512, Bert Meyer (D&Bs) 492.

Team games: D & B’s 891, The Hee Haws 842, Spare-Us 775.

Team series: D & B’s 2432, The Hee Haws 2376, Spare-Us 2276.

Splits converted: 3-10: Kyle Nelson. 67-10: Edla Meyer. 2-7: Barb Morgan.

Monday Afternoon Seniors Standings: Swans 28, Nite Hawks 24.5, Bears 18, Eagles 18, Badgers 14.5, Bye 0.

Women’s games: Bernice Moyer 179, Betty Anderson 169, Lila Larson 163.

Women’s series: Bernice Moyer 483, Lila Larson 442, Nancy Morten 439.

Men’s games: Chuck Moyer 209, Dick Coen 201, Jim Morten 198.

Men’s series: Chuck Moyer 560, Dick Coen 536, Jim Morten 513.

Team games: Eagles 661, Bears 619, Swans 617.

Team series: Eagles 1905, Swans 1763, Bears 1728.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Radio Shack 59, Hacker’s Lanes 53, Mane Attractions 43, The Bottle Shop 42, Miller Chicks 37, House of Wood 32, AnchorBank 31, Bye 4.

Individual games: Heidi Carey (RS) 208, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 206, Kelly Schmidt (MC) 196.

Individual series: Heidi Carey (RS) 604, Kelly Schmidt (MC) 551, Sandy Hacker (HL) 518.

Team games: AnchorBank 668, Radio Shack 631, Mane Attractions 629.

Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 1817, Radio Shack 1817, Mane Attractions 1775.

Tuesday Youth (2 games) Standings: Pin Destroyers 16, Pin Heads 12, Double Headers 11, Pin Patrol 9.

Individual games: Austin Bruss 147, Austin Kurkowski 141, Ben Kurkowski 126.

Individual series: Austin Kurkowski 259, Ben Kurkowski 244, Austin Bruss 242.

Team Games: Pin Patrol 327, Pin Heads 314, Double Headers 311.

Team Series: Double Headers 618, Pin Heads 609, Pin Patrol 602.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Great Northern Outdoors 95.5, Bottle Shop 87.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 82, Hacker’s Lanes 79, Pioneer Bar 52, Hog Wild 43, Reliables 42, St. Croix Valley Hardwoods 39.

Individual games: Ed Bitler 268, Ron Skow 258, Maynard Stevens 256.

Individual series: Ed Bitler 692, Ron

Skow 625, Curt LaPre 611.

Team games: Great Northern Outdoors 706, Bottle Shop 637, Hog Wild 621.

Team series: Bottle Shop 1798, Great Northern Outdoors 1772, Reliables 1684.

Games 50 or more above average: Curt LaPre 222 (+51).

Wednesday Afternoon Ladies Standings: Eggs 5-54, Pioneer Bar 547.5, Frandsen Dairy 2-39, Hacker’s Lanes 2-27.5.

Individual games: Laur Fisk (PB) 212 & 191, Betty Schandorff (HL) 177.

Individual series: Laur Fisk (PB) 558, Betty Schandorff (HL) 448, Kathy Sandberg (PB) 428.

Team games: Pioneer Bar 615 & 597, Pioneer Bar & Frandsen Dairy 567.

Team series: Pioneer Bar 1779, Hacker’s Lanes 1576, Frandsen Dairy 1516.

Wednesday Night Early Men’s Standings: Cummings Lumber 26, Parker 25, Lewis Silo 24, Skol Bar 23, A1 Machine 22, Larsen Auto Center 20, Pioneer Bar 19, Four Seasons Wood Products 17.

Individual games: Dale Rowell (P) 257, Mike Renfroe (SB) 245, Chris Rowell (P) 234.

Individual series: Duane Doolittle (LS) 631, Chris Rowell (P) 629, Norm Hansen (A-1) 612.

Team games: Lewis Silo 1003, Parker 980, A-1 Machine 959.

Team series: Lewis Silo 2823, A-1 Machine 2764, Parker 2755.

Thursday Early 3-Man Standings: Fab Four (9) 25, K-Wood (4) 23.5, Full Timers (9) 22, Hell Raisers (9) 21.5, Frontier Trails (4) 21, Grindell Law Offices (4) 17, CenturyTel (9) 16, Wikstrom Construction (4) 10.

Individual games: Don McKinney (FF) 247, Curt LaPre (K-W) 245, Dave Hall (HR) 236.

Individual series: Don McKinney (FF) 670, Brian McBroom (FuT) 663, Ed Bitler (K-W) 637.

Team games: Grindell Law Offices 585, Full Timers & Grindell Law Offices 584, Fab Four 582.

Team series: Full Timers 1838, Grindell Law Offices 1720, Fab Four 1714.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Don McKinney 5x = 247 & 5x = 220; Brian McBroom 5x = 232; John Bytnar 5x = 227; Ed Bitler 5x = 207.

Games 50 or more above average: Curt LaPre 245 (+75).

Most points: Dave Hall 55.

Splits converted: 4-10: Ed Bitler. 2-7: John Hickey; Ed Bitler.

Thursday Late Men’s Standings: Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 33-11, Hansen Farms Inc. 23-21, Fisk Trucking 22-22, Johnson Upholstery 21-23, Stotz & Company 18-26.

Individual games: Gene Wynn Jr. 248, Larry Stotz 247, Ole Baillargeon 222.

Individual series: Ole Baillargeon 653, Larry Stotz 629, Gene Wynn Jr. 601.

Team games: Hansen Farms Inc. 958, Stotz & Company 912, Fisk Trucking 882.

Team series: Hansen Farms Inc. 2576, Stotz & Company 2574, Fisk Trucking 2467.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: Meyer’s Plus 57, Skol Bar 55, The Leader 42.5, Tin Cup Promotions 33, Hole in the Wall 32.5, Junque Art 32.

Individual games: Jen Carlson 223, Gail Linke 221, Missy Hernandez 212.

Individual series: Gail Linke 612, Missy Hernandez 588, Jen Carlson 572.

Team games: Meyer’s Plus 707, Skol Bar 687, Junque Art 668.

Team series: Skol Bar 2020, Junque Art 1922, Meyer’s Plus 1911.

Splits converted: 5-7: Cindy Denn. 510: Sam Otten.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Madness Standings: Peper Tire & Align. 57, Pepie’s Gals 52, McKenzie Lanes 50, Frederic Larsen Auto 48, State Farm Ins. 46, Osceola Plumbing & Heating 44, Alleycats 41, Scottay’s Trucking 40.

Individual games: Barbara Benson 194, Debbie Swanson 190, Brenda Carlson 183.

Individual series: Barbara Benson 508, Brenda Carlson 499, Debbie Swanson 490.

Team games: (Handicap scores) State Farm Ins. 584, Alleycats 583, McKenzie Lanes & Peper Tire & Align. 576.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Peper Tire & Align. 1696, Alleycats 1663, State Farm Ins. 1654.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Metal Products Co. 69.5, Milltown Appliance 64, Sam’s Carpentry 48.5, Edina Divas 47.5, McKenzie Lanes 45, Bont Chiropractic 44, Frederic Truck & Tractor 41.5, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 40.

Individual games: Cindy Castellano 212, Linda McCurdy 211, Shirley Wilson 199.

Individual series: Cindy Castellano 585, Dana Amundson 527, Jane Smith 522.

Team games: (Handicap score) Metal Products Co. 1007.

Team series: (Handicap score) Milltown Appliance 2913.

Tuesday Women’s Day Standings: Custom Outfitter 119.5, Kassel Tap 114.5, A-1 Machine 113.5, Hauge Dental 100.5, Country Gals 87, B & H Builders 84, Gutter Dusters 80, Bye 49.

Individual games: Jane Smith 218, Norma Hauge 202, Denise F. Donaghue 192.

Individual series: Jane Smith 580, Norma Hauge 559, Denise F. Donaghue 549.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Custom Outfitter 825, Kassel Tap 791, Hauge Dental 784.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Custom Outfitter 2348, Kassel Tap 2314, Hauge Dental 2271.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: McKenzie Lanes 24, Steve’s Appl. 22, The Dugout 22, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 22, Greatland Trans. 21, Glass Bar 20, Hack’s Pub 15, Dream Lawn 14.

Individual games: Jim McKenzie 279, Cole Johnson 257, Gene Braund 257.

Individual series: Cole Johnson 678, Erv Lehmann 661, Jim McKenzie 651.

Team games: (Handicap scores) The Dugout 1235, Steve’s Appliance 1214, McKenzie Lanes 1196.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Steve’s Appliance 3578, The Dugout 3542, McKenzie Lanes 3369.

Wednesday Early League Standings: Fox Den 50, Hendrick’s Motor 49, Holiday StationStores 48, Cutting Edge 48, Fox Den II 48, Lite House 42, Tri-County Implement 38, Larsen Auto Frederic 27.

Women’s games: Patty Walker 185, Janice Fox 183, Dixie Welling 183.

Women’s series: Dixie Welling 492, Janice Fox 485, Debbie Korsan 472.

Men’s games: Ben Cox 257, Darrell Hendricks 244, Jim Coen 222.

Men’s series: Ben Cox 635, Jim Coen 633, Darrell Hendricks 629.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Fox Den II 721, Lite House 705, Fox Den 695.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Lite House 2008, Fox Den II 1977, TriCounty Implement 1954.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 29, McKenzie Lanes 20, Hanjo Farms 20, Edina Realty 16, Dalles Electrical 15, Davy’s Construction 10, Harvest Moon 10, Reed’s Marina 8.

Individual games: Jim McKenzie 279, Darren McKenzie 279, Jason Loney & Rick K. Katzmark 246.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 755, Sam Leggitt 692, Jason Loney 663.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 1079, Dalles Electrical 1064.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 3220, Dalles Electrical 3137.

Saturday Night Mixed Doubles Standings: Truhlsen Chiropractic 42, Happy Campers 38.5, Eureka Bombers 38.5, Tiger Express 38, The In-Laws 33, Roller Coasters 29.5, Fisk Trucking 28, Ten Pin Titans 24.5 Women’s games: Dixie Welling 218, Kim Delaney 184, Diane Fisk & Rachel Carney 175.

Women’s series: Dixie Welling 549, Diane Fisk 496, Rachel Carney 481.

Men’s games: Jeff Lehmann 253, Rick Katzmark 249, Gene Braund 210.

Men’s series: Rick Katzmark 671, Jeff Lehmann 609, Gene Braund 593.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Truhlsen Chiropractic 879, Fisk Trucking 847, Roller Coasters 842.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Fisk Trucking 2427, Roller Coasters 2394, Tiger Express 2382.

Black and Orange Lanes

Monday Night Men’s (End of Season) Standings: Bruce’s Auto 33-11, Parker 25-19, Glass & Mirror Works 25-19, Larry’s LP 24-20, Pope’s Construction 22-22, Vacant 3-41.

Individual games: Curt Phelps (BA) 235, Dean Eytcheson (BA) 222, Mark Homstrom (BA) 218.

Individual series: Curt Phelps (BA) 672, Dean Eytcheson (BA) 612, Mark Holmstrom (BA) 572.

Team games: Bruce’s Auto 1037, Glass & Mirror Works 983, Parker 917.

Team series: Bruce’s Auto 2953, Glass & Mirror Works 2695, Parker 2682.

Games 50 or more above average: Curt Phelps 235 (+64); Dean Eytcheson 222 (+55); Mark Holmstrom 218 (+67).

Series 100 or more above average: Curt Phelps 672 (+159); Dean Eytchesin 612 (+111); Mark Holmstrom 572 (+119).

TNT Standings: Flower Power 28-20, Cashco 25-23, Wild Bill’s 22-26, Larry’s LP 21-27.

Individual games: Evelyn Engebretson (FP) & Robin Willard (WB) 204, Becky Reynolds (L) 199, Jennifer Kern (L) & Sue Eytcheson (FP) 183.

Individual series: Robin Willard (WB) 540, Jennifer Kern (L) 533, Evelyn Engebretson (FP) 482.

Team games: Larry’s LP 905, Flower Power 892, Wild Bill’s 872.

Team series: Flower Power 2558, Larry’s LP 2479, Wild Bill’s 2457.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Lions 33-11, Northview Drive Inn 25.5-18.5, T & P Tree Service 20.523.5, Cashco 19.5-24.5, Black & Orange 17-27, 10th Hole 16.5-27.5.

Individual games: Art Bliven (L) 203, Dean Eytchenson (C) 198, Gerry Vogel (10th) 190.

Individual series: Dean Eytcheson (C) 539, Gerry Vogel (10th) 533, Rick Pardun (T&P) 509.

Team games: T & P Tree Service 907, 10th Hole 903, Cashco 891.

Team series: 10th Hole 2624, T & P Tree Service 2622, Cashco 2584.

Thursday Night Women’s (End of season) Standings: Check Services 30.5-17.5, Black & Orange 30-18, Ben Ott Construction 23-25, Hole in the Wall 21.5-26.5, Lipsy’s 21-27, Pour Housse 18-30.

Individual games: Audrey Pardun (HITW) 204, Gayle Naegli (B&O) 174, Celia Leehe (B&O) & Pam McCormack (HITW) 173.

Individual series: Audrey Pardun (HITW) 574, Celia Leehe (B&O) 498, Angie Olson (CS) 475.

Team games: Hole in the Wall 709, Black & Orange 702, Pour House 668.

Team series: Hole in the Wall 2010, Black & Orange 1969, Check Services 1923.

Splits converted: 4-6-7: Amanda Peterson.

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

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“From Hamburg, now Minn., wrestling out of H o n o l u l u , Hawaii.”

Such were the words of legring endary announcer Roger Kent whenever he would introduce Buck “Rock and Roll” Zumhofe back in the halcy- THE SPORTS on days of the A m e r i c a n W r e s t l i n g Association.

In the 1980s, Zumhofe–with his trademark boombox cradled on his shoulder–was a good-guy headliner on grappling cards that drew as many 16,000 fans to the St. Paul Civic Center.

These days, the rock ‘n roller has his own barnstorming wrestling troupe that plays smaller venues in Minnesota, Wisconsin and the Dakotas. About 20 diehard fans filed into a Lewis bistro recently to watch Zumhofe, a 7-foot giant, and two female grapplers do their respective battles in the squared circle.

Back in his heyday, Zumhofe was known as a scientific wrestler who occasionally lost matches when

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he’d lose focus while trying to get the crowd clapping along to the rock and roll music from his omnipresent boombox. Oft times he’d then be ambushed from behind by an alert adversary who seized the moment of the Rock ‘n Roller’s distraction.

But at Lewis, not only did the 50something Zumhofe stay focused long enough to win his match over a youthful 7-foot giant, but he also paid attention to the point where he could ably serve as referee, announcer, ticket taker and peanut vendor over the course of the evening.

Close encounter with the formerly endangered kind Spies from Grantsburg country say that well-known 1980s Frederic multisport icon and ex-FHS baseball coach Brad Domagala had a memorable timber wolf sighting on Monday. While driving north of Falun, Domagala saw a very large, charcoal-to-black colored canis lupus near the roadside following a deer trail. Looking ahead as the wolf ran away down the trail, Domagala then saw a group of seven deer fleeing with the canine in hot pursuit. According to the Wisconsin DNR, there are roughly 600 gray wolves (aka timber wolves) in the state. A 1980s study

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showed that the diet of Wisconsin wolves was comprised of 35-percent white-tailed deer.

Unconfirmed research indicates the diet of the average Polk or Burnett county human is comprised of 50percent white-tailed deer.

And speaking of FHS baseball alumni...

2003 Frederic grad Bryan Vilstrup upped his pitching record to 2-0 as he earned the win in UW Stout’s 8-4 victory over Augsburg down in Phoenix on Monday. Those who log on to the Stout baseball home page will note that a picture of Vilstrup is the featured photo.

Paula Dean couldn’t hold a candle The 15th-annual Wild Game Sampler was held last Saturday night in a remote Northwest hunting shack.

Wisconsin Attendance was down a bit, with only nine sportsmen in attendance, but as usual, the fare was delectable. Goose, duck, pheasant, wild turkey, squirrel, rabbit and venison were prepared and consumed by the hungry throng. One guest took a step out of the wild mainstream and brought corned beef and cabbage. “Where did you shoot that?” asked one incredulous guest as the domestic offering was presented.

Notably absent were three guys,

Friberg/continued as a sport, so various clubs are where people get their start. The Friberg family travels in the winter to mostly out-of-state competitions including Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Since her start in ski jumping at age 11, Friberg has been gradually working her way to the top. She started on a jump at about 10 meters, which is about one foot off the ground. It was a gradual progression from then on, and now Friberg can be found floating on jumps 80 meters in height and higher. Is she ever scared? Not so much.

“You move up when you get comfortable, so I’ve never really been scared, I guess, maybe nervous sometimes, but never really scared,” she said.

This year Friberg hopes to qualify for a summer tour in Europe to compete in various Continental Cups, and eventually become a member of the U.S. Women’s Ski Jumping Team. The Continental Cup Circuit is the highest level of competition available, and next year will be the first World Championships for women.

Right now Friberg says she competes at the junior level, which is a developmental program similar to a B team. But she knows there’s still a lot of time before now and 2010, and more Olympic games to come after that.

“There’s lots of time, so I’m not really in any hurry,” she said.

If you’d like to learn more about women’s ski jumping or sign a petition in support of a women’s ski event in the 2010 Winter Games visit www.wsj2010.com. You can also visit the largest ski jumping site in the English language at www.skiWOMEN’S POOL LEAGUE Team

Greg’s Gals Suzy Q’s Blacksmith Shop JJ’s Wise Guys Glass Bar Hack’s Kassel Tap Shafer’s Crystal Harvest Moon

Score 110 106 102 100 95 83 81 77 67 63 59

READ LEADER SPORTS!

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Karin Friberg's 13 year-old brother Christian Friberg glides through the air on the Silvermine ski jump in Eau Claire. - Photo submitted jumpingusa.com. More on the St. Paul Ski Club can be found on www.stpaulskiclub.com.

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grouse, woodcock, bear, elk, crow, beaver and muskrat, all of which had been on or around (and in some cases, under) the table in prior years. Special mention was given to one attendee who went well beyond the call of duty in preparing three different squirrel dishes. All hail the Squirrel King!

This week’s trivia carries a wild game cookery theme. Identify this popular wild game fare with the wild bird or mammal from which it is most often associated.

1) Hasenpfeffer a) mink b) rabbit c) elk d) opossum 2) Brunswick Stew a) deer b) pine marten c) squirrel d) bear 3) Pheasant Under Glass a) pheasant b) ruffed grouse c) sharp-tailed grouse d) quail 4) Fruited breast of: a) grouse b) duck c) opossum d) bear 5) Swiss Steak a) cougar b) deer c) steer d) squirrel 6) Jerky a) goose b) woodcock c) ruffed grouse d) opossum 7) A la King a) fisher b) wild turkey c) bear d) crow Correct answers: 1-b, 2-c, 3-a, 4-b, 5-b, 6-a, 7-b.

Rate yourself. How did you do? 6 to 7 correct = Emeril LaGasse; 4 to 5 correct= Hank Meadows; 1-3 correct—Julia Child; 0 correct= card carrying PETA member

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MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

INTER! COUNTY LEADER

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

Warm enough for sugar bush season million to the state economy, and this year, maple syrup even has its own month. Gov. Jim Doyle has proclaimed March 15 to April 15 Wisconsin Maple Syrup Month.

In honor of maple syrup month, the Leader will follow the sugar bush season on the O’Donnell farm in a series of articles.

by Sherill Summer FREDERIC – Anticipating spring despite the raw March temperatures, a team of Belgians named Pete and Dan, pulling a wagon loaded with buckets, were lead into a wooded area outside of Frederic. Dominated by towering maples that are likely just over a 100 years old, the area is an ideal place to collect the sweet maple sap that makes maple syrup.

The tradition of collecting maple sap in early spring, first practiced by the Native Americans, goes back hundreds of years in Wisconsin. Called sugar bush season, variations of the same basic techniques are still practiced today.

An assortment of taps is used to funnel the rising sap into a waiting bucket.

Dennis O’Donnell of Frederic is dwarfed by the maples he taps during sugar bush season. To tunnel into the trees, he has retro-fitted on old chain saw with a drill bit. - Photos by Sherill Summer As warm temperatures thaw out the natural rhythms, there really is no avermassive root system of the maples, and age. Each tree is different, and each the sap returns aboveground into the year brings something new. branches to fuel spring growth, holes Even the different sugar bush operaare drilled through the outer bark. A tions vary throughout the state, as new funnel of some sort directs a small por- innovations mingle with the traditional tion of the rising sap out of the tree into way of doing thing. a container. About 20 gallons of sap can Wisconsin ranks eighth in the nation be gathered from an average tree, which for maple syrup production with over amounts to about two quarts of syrup. 3,000 producers in the state. Annually But, as with anything that depends on maple syrup adds approximately $10

John Boyer of Frederic pounds a tap into this 100-year-old hard maple tree.

Conservation Congress annual county meetings April 14 STATEWIDE – Wisconsin residents will be able to nominate and elect new local representatives to the Wisconsin Conservation Congress and express support or nonsupport for a range of advisory questions on conservation and natural resources management issues at the congress’ spring meetings held in every county on April 14 starting at 7 p.m.

Held jointly with the Department of Natural Resources Spring Wildlife and Fisheries Rule Hearings, the meetings traditionally are held on the second Monday in April. However, due to unforeseen legislative changes, this year the spring hearings and county meetings will be held on the third Monday in April. The Wisconsin Conservation Congress is a statutorily established advisory group to the state Natural Resources Board.

“In Polk county, the joint DNR and Conservation Congress annual meeting will be held at the Unity High School Gymnasium, in Balsam Lake,” said Wally Trudeau, chair of the Polk County delegation.

At the meetings, citizens will have the opportunity to comment and register their support or non-support for congress proposals that someday could become the rules that regulate fishing, hunting, trapping and other outdoor recreation activities in Wisconsin. They may also submit resolutions addressing conservation needs or concerns they observe.

Results of the public’s input on these proposals will be presented to the Natural Resources Board in May. If there is significant support for a proposal, the advisory question could become

a DNR rules change proposal in following years.

This year the Conservation Congress will seek public input on 28 advisory questions on a range of topics, some of which include: • Use of rifles for deer hunting in Shawano and Dunn counties; • Legislation to prohibit deer baiting and feeding statewide; • Eliminating the option for future Managed Forest Law participants from closing their property to public recreational access; • Begin the process to create a gray wolf harvest season; • Phone-in turkey registration; • Prohibition on the transportation of aquatic invasive species; and • Elimination of the barbless hook requirement for early season trout fishing.

“Conservation Congress advisory questions originate from citizens with good ideas.” said Ed Harvey, chairman of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress. “If resolutions presented at the county level meetings are supported, the resolution is advanced to one of the congress’ study committees and the congress executive council for consideration.

“Each year, there are over 200 resolutions submitted locally, not all pass, but the ones that do begin their journey to become a rule, policy or legislative

change in the subsequent years,” Harvey said. “It is a true grassroots process that empowers the citizens of this state to shape natural resources policy.”

Anyone submitting resolutions must submit two copies of their resolution typed or neatly printed on 8- 1/2 by 11 inch white paper.

In addition to the congress advisory quesitons, the county meeting is also reserved for the election of delegates to the Wisconsin Conservation Congress.

To vote for congress delegates, people must be 18 years old and provide identification along with proof of residency in the county.

“There will be two seats up for election, in Polk County in 2008, ” stated Wally Trudeau. “Any citizen of the county, who is a Wisconsin resident and is at least 18 years of age may be nominated to the congress for a two or three year term. Nominees must be willing to volunteer their time and represent their local citizens on natural resource issues.”

The Burnett County meeting will be

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held in Siren at the Siren Government Center in Room 165 at 7410 CTH K. The Washburn County meeting will be held in Spooner at the Washburn Ag research station W6646 Hwy. 70 in Spooner. For more information contact Wally Trudeau at 715-268-2304.

As established by Wisconsin State Statutes, the Wisconsin Conservation Congress is officially recognized as the only natural resources advisory body in the state where citizens elect delegates to represent their interests on natural resources issues on a local and statewide level to the Natural Resources Board and the Department of Natural Resources. Their mission is to represent the citizens of Wisconsin by working with the Natural Resources Board and the Department of Natural Resources to effectively manage Wisconsin’s greatest asset, our abundant natural resources, for present and future generations to enjoy. – submitted

track...

••• CLAM FALLS/LEWIS – Hunter Education for both rifle and bow will begin on Monday evening, March 31, and run until Saturday, April 12. Dates set are Monday, March 31; Thursday April 3; Saturday morning, April 5; Monday, April 7; Tuesday, April 8; Thursday April 10 and Saturday morning, April 12. The Monday, March 31 class starts at 6:30 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. The classes will be held at South Fork Sportsmen’s Club. If more information is needed, call Tom Lemieux at 715-653-4253. - submitted

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

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Assembly Leaders kill DNR Secretary Appointment Rejects sportsmen and women POYNETTE – The Wisconsin Legislature adjourned last week with the Wisconsin Assembly leadership killing two bills restoring the Natural Resources Board appointment authority of the DNR secretary despite overwhelming support for the bills by hunters, anglers and trappers and the overwhelming support of legislators in both the Assembly and the Senate.

Assembly Bill 504 died in the Assembly Rules Committee chaired by Assembly Majority Leader Jeff Fitzgerald, Horicon, and vice chaired by Speaker Mike Huebsch, West Salem.

The bills, AB 504 and SB 15, had overwhelming support from the hunting, fishing and trapping community.

Several Conservation Congress spring hearing votes registered between 85- to 90-percent support for NRB appointment of the DNR secretary. A poll of Wisconsin sportsmen and women conducted by the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation in 2004 showed 79-percent support.

There was overwhelming Legislative support for the bills. The Senate version of the bill, SB 15, passed by a strong bipartisan 21-12 vote. The Assembly version of the bill, AB 504, had 42 Assembly sponsors including Huebsch.

A majority of Assembly Republicans were either co-sponsors of the bill or voted for it in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee. Virtually all Assembly Democrats supported the bill.

A vote count in the Assembly indicated that there were between 70 and 75 votes out of 99 for AB 504 on the floor of the Assembly. Despite this overwhelming support, the Assembly majority leadership did not allow a floor vote for the bill.

Why was the bill killed by the Assembly leadership? Huebsch and others were very candid that the reason was that some business groups were against the bills. Voicing opposition to the bill were the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the Wisconsin Builders Association, the Wisconsin Realtors Association, the Wisconsin Utilities Association, the Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association, the Midwest Food Processors Association, the Wisconsin Economic Development Association and the Fox City Chamber of Commerce.

Why do these groups hold more sway over the Assembly Majority leadership than the 1.6 million hunters, anglers and trappers in Wisconsin? It is simple, just follow the money. In the last Legislative campaign, 2006, these business sectors contributed $1.8 million to the political campaigns of Wisconsin legislators.

Why do these business groups have

Great Northern Outdoors Archery League Week 8

A League Deadnuts: Ben A. 294, Dustin G. 292, (48 points) Shockers: Jason C. 272, Chad L. 239 (32 points) Free Flight: Jeff B. 290, Sherri P. 268 (32 points) Full Draw: Sheri B. 292, Tony P. 288 (28 points) Stabilizers: Mark J. 280, Drew B. 266 (14 points) Spartanz: Brian S. 286, Nick R. 238 (10 points) The Kaws: Kyle J. 280, Andy W. 261 (10 points) B League GNO: Ross W. 293, Erika W. 270 (42 points) Redneck Ind: Brent L. 299, Roy Z. 293 (42 points)

Team MJ: Cory M. 243, Jeremy J. 235 (32 points) Gameslayers: Bill S. 276, Gino L. 189 (24 points) Razors Edge: Brad S. 280, Zach S. 270 (22 points) Highlanders: Bruce R. 282, Cory S. 236 (16p points) Anuke: Luke K. 271, Dan G. 160 (12 points) S & T: Tam H. 231, Steve K. 184 (8 points) Animal Lovers: Laurel G. 144, Maddie B. 103 (0 points) Spot Shooters, 300 game Pat J. 269

such an interest in whether the DNR secretary is appointed by the seven-citizen Natural Resources Board or by the governor. Once again it is very simple, just follow the money. In the last governor’s election, these business sectors contributed $4.8 million to the gubernatorial candidates. When they contribute that amount of money to influence a future governor, they also want to buy the influence of the DNR secretary who has a major impact on natural resource management policies.

The Wildlife Federation would like to give credit to several legislators that worked hard to support AB 504 and SB 15. They include Sen. Bob Wirch, Pleasant Prairie, Sen. Mark Miller, Monona, Rep. Scott Gunderson, Waterford, Rep. Dean Kaufert, Neenah, Rep. Doc Hines, Oxford, Rep. Spencer Black, Madison and Rep. Ann Hraychuck, Balsam Lake.

The Wisconsin Wildlife Federation is the state’s largest conservation group, comprised of 160 hunting fishing and trapping groups. Headquartered in Poynette, the federation is dedicated to conservation education and the advancement of strong conservation policies. For more information contact George Meyer, executive director, at 608-516-5545. – Submitted by George Meyer, the executive director for the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation.

George Meyer, Executive Director for the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation and former DNR secretary, spoke to the Polk County Sportsmen's Club back in December. Meyer discussed the role of the WWF, current issues in conservation and the Natural Resources Board appointment authority of the DNR secretary. - File photo by Marty Seeger

Butch’s Northwest Archery Bow Hunting League Week 10

Bowhunter’s League Traditional Peterson Construction: 398 Butch’s Traditional Archery: 369 Shell Lake Pharmacy: 331 Earth Energy Systems: 307 Wishful Thinking: 267 Men’s Knoop Construction: 570 Shell Lake State Bank: 552 A&H Taxidermy: 551 Little Lambs Preschool: 528 White Birch Printing: 515 Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church: 505

Big Mike’s Sports Shop: 438 Webster Auto Sales: – Northview Drive Inn: – Right in the Middle: – Men/Women A&H Taxidermy (2): – Women's Chicog Pub: 430 Youth Cloverleaf: 331

Idita-Luck sled dog races held

Luck’s sixth-grade classes held their eighth-annual Idita-Luck sled dog races on Wednesday, March 12. The sixth grade class is studying about the Iditarod Sled Dog Race which is a 1,049+ mile race across Alaska. During the unit, the students learn about the Iditarod trail, the mushers and about dog care. To incorporate technology into the unit, the students learn how to put a PowerPoint slide presentation together demonstrating their knowledge of Iditarod terms and mushing information. The highlight of the unit is a sled dog race around the football field. Four students are the “dogs” pulling the sled, and they have a musher giving the commands. The students pull Carolyn Peterson’s dog sled. One team runs at a time while all the other sixth-grade students cheer them on. The fastest time around the course is the winner, and the names of the students are placed on a trophy. The team with the slowest time gets the Red Lantern Award. - Photos submitted

P O L K

C O U N T Y

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

H E A D L I N E S

Four-year-old kindergarten teacher explains Ready Bodies Matz asks for study of open enrollment losses

by Gregg Westigard FREDERIC – “The 4-year-old kindergarten program is a very different kind of program,” 4K teacher Erin Hansford told the Frederic School Board during its meeting Monday, March 17.

“It looks at the children and their mind/body development. It is a chance to identify some special needs and a chance help some children prepare for kindergarten. I am concerned about where our program will go.”

Hansford went on to explain that some young children need help with body and mind coordination, something she called Ready Bodies. Hansford said if the opportunity to help these children is missed at the 4K level, they will have problems later in school. She said that teachers like her have an entirely different kind of education and degree with an emphasize on physical development.

“There are more issues now than in the past,” Hansford concluded. “We need this program. It is the foundation for future success. I really worry about these kids.”

Open enrollment numbers Frederic will have five students coming to the dis-

trict in 2008-09 under open enrollment and 26 transferring out for a net loss of 21 students. That includes 12 going to Grantsburg and six enrolling in the North Ozaukee virtual school. This continues a pattern of open enrollment loses for the district, which lost an average of 29 students each year for the past five years. The district had 545 students in attendance at the start of the year.

District administrator Gerald Tischer said many of these have never been in the Frederic classrooms and have stayed in districts their families moved from.

Others are doing online schooling. He said students are using more educational options today.

“We need to know why so many are leaving,” board member Shari Matz said. “We need to make students want to come to Frederic. It is important to ask them why they are leaving. It matters.”

Matz asked administration to follow up with personal questions to the students who are transferring out. She said they should know we care about why they are leaving.

Athletic projects Frederic will have a new press box at the football field and a new surface on the track this year.

The football press box will be a gift from Dennis Frandsen who has offered to pay for all the materials for the project if the construction labor was donated.

Local builder David Anderson and electrician Brad

Schmidt will be volunteering their time for the project, according to high school Principal Ray Draxler, who added that the project will be completed with no cost to the district.

The board also approved a bid of $14,150 for a new surface of the track, using a latex spray rejuvenation system. The track, one of the best in the area according to Draxler, has been deteriorating for several years.

The new surface should last from six to eight years, Tischer said. The project is part of the 2007-08 budget.

Friends of the Pool meeting, The Frederic School Board members will be attending the Friends of the Pool meeting next Monday evening to hear ideas about a new community pool. A draft copy of the engineer’s report on the present pool and options for the future was presented to the board in December. In that draft, Tim Gremmer of Water Technology, Inc., said it is not feasible to renovate the existing pool.

Gremmer also included a list of six recommendations to be implemented before the pool is opened in 2008. Items on that list range from staffing changes to the installation of additional main drains. He says that high velocities for water entering the one main drain could cause entrapment.

The board has not discussed the 2008 repairs and their possible costs.

Registration forms from national groups may be confusing for voters

by Marilyn Sederlund FREDERIC – There may be greater voter interest in Wisconsin’s elections this year, due to a state Supreme Court contest on April 1, and the race for U.S. president and Legislative elections this autumn. As more people register to vote, it’s important to know the rules.

One potential source of confusion for new and longtime voters alike is a generic voter registration form provided by national groups. Area residents may receive official-looking forms in the mail with warnings, which cause them to think they need to register more than once.

For example, one group has mailed a letter stating, “NOTICE: State voting laws require individuals to register before voting. To comply with state legal requirements, please return the enclosed application.”

Village of Frederic residents should remember they do not have to reregister to vote if they have voted in the last four years and have not moved or changed their names. These notices are being sent out to voters all over the United States, whether the recipients are registered or not.

For those people who really do need to register, it is better to use Wisconsin’s voter registration form - the EB-131 form - and to remember the voter registration deadlines. Mail-in registration ends 20 days before the election - that was March 12 for the April 1 election so many of these forms are not reaching the clerks before that cutoff. That means the names may not be on the poll book, and the voter will have to fill out the form again, on Election Day. The deadline for the Sept.

9 primary is Aug. 20, and the deadline for the Nov. 4 general election is Oct. 15.

Wisconsin residents can register in their municipal clerk’s office up to Election Day, and at the polling place on Election Day, so no voters will be disenfranchised by confusing solicitations from out-of-state organizations. However, because these notices do not explain local registration deadlines, some people who believe they are registered will not be in the poll book when they arrive at their polling place.

Voters with questions about Wisconsin voter registration or use of other registration forms should contact the Frederic Clerk’s Office at 715-327-4294, or check their voter registration status on the Voter Public Access page of the State Elections Division Web site at http://elections.wi.gov.

Editor’s note: Marilyn Sederlund is the Frederic Village clerk.

More than 160 events scheduled at Unity over 30-day period

Obey reinforces commitment to after-school programming

by Keri Michele BALSAM LAKE – At the March 11 school board meeting, the Unity School District focused on their fourth and final district goal: to “promote educational and lifelong learning opportunities at Unity to prospective students, parents and community.”

District administrator Brandon Robinson reported that, even with the upcoming school closing for Easter vacation and Easter break, “in the next 30 days” there are over 160 events scheduled at Unity Schools that demonstrate the district’s commitment to meeting this challenge.

Following their Jazz Festival on March 18, Unity’s high school band heads south with members of the high school chorus. This is the first year that the band and the chorus get to make the trip to Florida together instead of waiting for their turn to travel, every other year. The students will be returning from their fun in the sun on March 24.

Some major highlights from Unity’s March calendar of events include the annual father/son wrestling tournament, a live performance of the Teddy Bear Band, the kindergarten circus and a visit from U.S. Congressman Dave Obey.

Robinson recognizes Obey’s legislative efforts in support of after-school programming as playing a key role in Unity’s ability to offer the after-school programming and educational opportunities that are instrumental in achieving the school district’s fourth and final goal.

“Obey has been working this Legislative session,” explains Robinson “to continue the federal government’s commitment to after-school education for elementary and middle school students.”

Child Development Day and Super Saturday are two examples of the unique opportunities available at Unity in April. Unity’s Child Development Day on April 3, from 5 to 7 p.m., is for children who will be 3 years old by Sept. 1. This event is described as “an evening of fun, food and facts.” In addition to the free dinner, hearing test and child identification kit, families will also have the opportunity to learn about normal child growth and development for children 2-1/2 to 3-1/2 and at-home activities designed to foster developmental skills.

The school’s 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Super Saturday event on April 5 is a day of education and activities for families and is free for all Unity parents and students.

While students spend the day swimming and participating in a wide range of enrichment activities, parents will attend Parenting with Love and Logic classes; where they will have the opportunity to ask ques-

tions and hear suggestions on dealing with discipline situations of all types.

A complete list of the scheduled events and activities available at Unity Schools is posted online at http://www.unity.k12.wi.us/.

FFA seniors receive top honors Jeanne Alling, Unity’s Future Farmers of America, advisor delivered good news to the school board Tuesday night: six Unity seniors earned their state FFA degree, the top level of membership available at the high school level for FFA. Annie Jepsen, Tiffany Larsen, Dan Livingston, Brian Mabry, Lance Peper and Amy Van De Brake, all FFA members since middle school, were each awarded this top honor for demonstrating a level of excellence in their individual work within the community.

Budget cuts for 2008-2009 In February the school district’s budget and finance committee identified the need to respond to an impending budget deficit by working on budget reductions for the upcoming school year; the committee discussed preliminary considerations at their meeting on March 4. At the March school board meeting, Robinson described this planning process as ongoing, but predicts that a detailed budget estimate will be available in late April or early May.

Barron Electric Cooperative’s annual meeting set for March 29

BARRON COUNTY – Barron Electric members are invited to attend the 72nd-annual meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 29, at the Barron High School.

Registration will start at 9 a.m. with the business meeting following at 10 a.m.

Renewables, efficiency and conservation is the theme of the annual meeting. Guest speakers include Jeff Springer of Gen-/sys Energy, who will address energy conservation; Perry Baird will give an update from the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association; and Brian Schilling of Bauman Associates will discuss the auditor’s report. Members will elect directors from

District 2, 4 and 8 to serve a three-year term. Members will also vote on proposed bylaw changes.

The annual meeting is one way Barron Electric Cooperative informs and involves those it serves.

Members will have the opportunity to visit information booths and exhibits, and enjoy fellowship with other cooperative members. Tri-State Lumber and Land will be the featured business. A kids’ program is available for children ages 12 and under, and includes swimming at the Barron Area Community Center, games and movies.

Members should bring the registration card received

with the March 1 billing statement to the annual meeting. Members of the cooperative who register prior to 10 a.m. and are in attendance at the conclusion of the meeting will be eligible to win the following prizes: •32” flat-panel high-definition TV •20 $50 electric bill credits •A variety of electric appliances and electronics All members and guests will receive a free lunch and a pound of cheese at the completion of the meeting. Barron Electric Cooperative, a Touchstone Energy® Cooperative and Country Comfort Partner, has been serving the rural area since 1936. - submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Burnett Dairy cheese wins again at World Cheese Championship Contest

by Priscilla Bauer ALPHA – Burnett Dairy cheese makers came up winners again this year at the 27th-annual World Cheese Championship Contest held in Madison March 11-13.

Cheese makers Steve Tollers and Earl Wilson won first and second place respectively in the Aged Provolone Class. Rob Stellrecht won third place for his entry of pepper-flavored Americanstyled cheese. Tollers also won fifth

place for mild provolone.

Hosted by the nonprofit Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, the contest started in 1957 has grown each year.

This year’s contest, which is open to cheese and butter makers from the all around the world, drew 1,942 entries in the 79 classes.

Tollers, Wilson and Stellrecht are looking forward to receiving their metals in April when gold, silver and bronze metals encased in glass will be

Burnett Dairy cheese makers Steve Tollers and Earl Wilson recently won first- and second-place awards respectively in the Aged Provolone Cheese Class at the World Championship Cheese Contest in Madison. Cheese maker Rob Stellrecht (not present for photo) won third place for his entry of pepperflavored American-styled cheese. Tollers also won a fifth-place certificate of merit in the mild provolone class. The cheese makers will receive their award metals in April.

The Burnett Dairy Cheese Store’s coolers are filled many varieties of cheese including award-winning cheeses made by the cheese factory’s cheese makers. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

awarded to the Best of Class winners. In addition, blue, red and white ribbons will be given to the metal winners.

Fourth- and fifth-place winners will receive a certificate of merit from the contest.

For the past several years, Burnett Dairy has consistently won top awards

Girl Scout Bunny drive a success For the second year, Girl Scout Troop #51608, Siren, sponsored The Celie Annual Bunny Drive, collecting 239 new (with tags still on) stuffed bunnies and other figures, compared to 86 stuffed toys collected last year. (L to R) Troop members Leigha Priske-Olson, Josie Taylor, Abby Kosloski and Courtney Coy showed their favorites from the group.

The stuffed toys will be given to children at Amery Hospital and Twin Cities hospitals who must spend Easter in the hospital, as Celie Mangelsen had to do seven years ago when she received a stuffed bunny.

After Celie was released from the hospital, her parents, Larry and Heidi Mangelsen, started the bunny drive in Celie’s name. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

at the competition. The winning cheeses are available at the Burnett Dairy Cheese Store where the awards will also be on display.

You can get a closer look at how the contest works, the cheese entries and contest winners at: www.wischeesemakersassn.org.

B e r d a l d on a t e s p h o t o

Local photographer Ed Berdal hands the manager of his apartment building, Kimberly Harvey, a photograph he took and framed.

This is a picture of the Church of the Holy Cross in Sedona, Ariz. “Because of your dignified presence as manager, it’s a pleasure to have an apartment here in Golden Oaks,” Berdal said to Harvey. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents March 7, 8:05 p.m., Beaver Twp., Wild Card Steakhouse parking lot, 256 Hwy. 8, #1 – Edwin N. Daniels, 58, Milltown; #2 – legally parked vehicle owned by Timothy W. Glaze, Cameron. Unit 1 was performing a backing maneuver in the Wild Card Steakhouse parking lot and struck unit 2.

March 8, 12 a.m., Bone Lake Twp. 250th Avenue, .1 mile east of Round Lake Road, Shane L. Barter, 22, Andover, Minn., was eastbound on 250th Avenue.

Operator lost control. Vehicle left the road to the right and overturned. Driver and passenger, Scott M. Gregg, 25, Maple Grove, Minn., were wearing seat belts. Passenger received a minor cut on his hand/no EMS. Driver received citation for not reporting incident to police.

March 8, 2:56 p.m., Bone Lake Twp., CTH I, .5 mile south of CTH W, #1 – James C. Whitt,

48, Cumberland; #2 – Donna V. Burleson, 61, Frederic. Driver of unit 2 states she was northbound on CTH I when she observed unit 1 approaching her from behind, also northbound, at a high rate of speed. Unit 1 applied its brakes and skidded 111’ before impact and then continued to skid 156 more feet before turning off into the ditch.

Driver of unit 1 gave his DL# to unit 2, and stated he was late to get medication for his son and then left the scene. Unit 1 did have to work hard to get out of the ditch and then reportedly left in a quick manner. The witness observed everything after the accident and called law enforcement. Via phone, unit 1 driver stated he had a couple beers prior to the accident and his son needed medications. Driver of unit 1 was not wearing a seat belt (sustained minor injury/no EMS). Cited for driving too fast for conditions. Driver of unit 2

received a minor injury (wearing seat belt/no EMS). Passenger in unit 1, Joshua J. Whitt, 16, Cumberland, received minor injury (no seat belt worn/no EMS).

March 8, 6:09 p.m., Sterling Twp., Hwy. 87, .2 mile west of 240th Street, Nicole M. Minaker, 25, Turtle Lake, left the road after negotiating a curve on Hwy. 87 near 240th Street.

According to the driver, the vehicle’s wheel bearing seized and she lost control of the car. The vehicle struck a power pole (NW Electric), causing severe damage to the pole and moderate damage to the vehicle. The driver was going to make her own arrangements to have the vehicle removed and the power company was notified.

Other incidents March 8, Paula Thompson, village of Clayton, reported the theft of her purse from her residence.

Burnett County criminal court Daniel E. Olson, 55, Milltown, operate with PAC >= .08 < .10, license revoked six months. $250.00; fail to wear seat belt, $10.00; speeding, $160.80.

Mollie K. Juntunen, 18, Barnes, speeding, $160.80.

Robert H. Deal, 18, Siren, unclassified forfeiture, $249.00.

Daniel A. Doskey, 28, Grantsburg, OWI, $894.00, alcohol assessment, 10-day jail sentence, Huber release granted, license revoked 12 months.

Kevin M. Aubert, 35, Hopkins, Minn., OWI, $793.00, alcohol assessment, license revoked eight months.

Brian L. Sternquist, 34, Grantsburg, unnecessary prohibited noise, $113.00.

Rhonda J. Thomas, 47, Luck, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Allan J. Mosay, 17, Hertel, theft, $249.00.

David A. Brown Jr., 19,

Danbury, possession of drug paraphernalia, $249.00.

Thomas M. Raska, 39, Siren, violation of restraining order, one-year probation, no contact with Faith Johnson, $88.00.

Deanne E. Lange, 39, Grantsburg, bail jumping, oneyear probation, alcohol assessment, no contact with Christopher Knoll, $88.00.

Kristopher R. Hicks, 37,

Siren, issue worthless check, one-year probation, $690.34 restitution, $88.00.

Andrea L. Martin, 42, Lindstrom, Minn., disorderly conduct, $88.00.

Joseph C. Macdonald, 22, Eagan, Minn., issue worthless check, $432.93 restitution, $248.00.

Community Wellness Challenge winners

The 2008 Community Wellness Challenge winner is Webster Eye Team from Webster Eye Associates. The four-team members lost a total of 55-1/2 pounds and 15-1/2 inches for a score of 71 inches and pounds lost. The winning team earns a trophy and cash prize for their effort, not to mention their photo in the paper. Shown (L to R) are Heidi Stromberg, Cheri Stromberg, Janet Swenson from Curves and Renee Nelson. Not shown is Webster Eye Associates team member Mike Stromberg. Three other teams were really close for second place: Dairyland Fire Department, Chippewa Checks 1 and Wayne’s Achy Brakey Cashiers. Curves extends congratulations to these teams as well. Twenty-six different teams participated in this year’s contest, losing 510-1/2 pounds and inches during the six weeks of the contest. – Photo submitted

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Notices

X

Burnett County warrants Kristina F. Alwine, 25, Spooner, commitment, March 13.

Sally Bachman, NDB, Danbury, commitment, March 13.

Samantha C. Belisle, 34, Shell Lake, commitment, March

13.

Holly Bergstrom, NDB, Luck, commitment, March 13.

Desiree G. Brewer, NDB, Cumberland, commitment, March 13.

Kevin M. Brown, 48, Hastings, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Michael S. Chadderdon, 36, Andover, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Brandan K. Chapman, 27, St. Croix Falls, commitment, March 13.

Donald V. Claeys, 41, Annawan, Ill., commitment, March 13.

James M. Colalillo, 50, Frederic, commitment, March 13.

Katherine L. Cox, 26, Minneapolis, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Gregory S. Deal, NDB, River Falls, commitment, March 13.

James A. Dierschell, 42, Bloomington, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Shannon M. Dugger, 28, North St. Paul, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Kenneth S. Dutka, 19, Lindenwood, Ill., commitment, March 13.

Christa L. Gelking, 21, Frederic, commitment, March 13.

Robert J. Geller, 28, Cushing, commitment, March 13.

Kimberly A. Gillis, 23, Hayward, commitment, March 13.

Larry A. Graf, 28,

Grantsburg, warrant – failure to appear, March 14.

Keith R. Gray, 27, Augusta, commitment, March 13.

Robert M. Greinke, 34, Somerset, commitment, March 13.

Joshua L. Hall, 27, Rice Lake, commitment, March 13.

John A. Halverson, 30, St. Louis Park, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Joshua T. Harmon, 21, Grantsburg, commitment, March 13.

Bradley S. Haugen, 19, Shoreview, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Laura B. Henriksen, 26, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Tricia M. Hernandez, 18, Pine City, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Andrew C. Hess, 23, Osceola, commitment, March 13.

Richard A. Heoft, 38, Radisson, commitment, March 13.

Patricia A. Hopkins, 42, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Gerald E. Hubbell, 37, Hayward, commitment, March 13.

Ted A. Hunter, 51, Siren, commitment, March 13.

John P. Hurt, NDB, Shell Lake, commitment, March 13.

Stacie M. Jacobsen, 24, Sandstone, Minn., arrest warrant – complaint, March 11.

Aaron Jetto, NDB, Shell Lake, commitment, March 13.

Isaac J. Jones, 18, Spooner, commitment, March 13.

Aarol L. Karl, 40, Frederic, commitment, March 13.

Michael J. Kegel, 36, Siren, commitment, March 13.

Anthony M. Klegin, 31, Amery, commitment, March 13.

Mark J. Koenig, 36, Henriette, Minn., commitment, March 13.

James M. Kokales, 34, Maple Grove, Minn., commitment, March 13.

John C. LaMotte, 51, Pine City, Minn., arrest warrant – complaint, March 14.

Rana A. LaPointe, 42, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Elizabeth A. Lemon, 37, Grantsburg, commitment, March 13.

Derek L. Lindemann, 24, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Nickolas P. Lisdahl, 21, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Michael A. Lott, 24, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Lisa E. Macmanus, 19, Duluth, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Jolie A. Martin, 40, White Bear Lake, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Shawn A. Martini, 28, Pine City, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Paul S. Maurice, 23, Hinckley, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Michael J. McCollough, 22, Siren, commitment, March 13.

Angela C. McDonald, 41, Spooner, commitment, March 13.

Gerard L. McKee, 28, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Mary L. Mendoza, 22, Siren, warrant – failure to appear,

March 11.

Ricky A. Mork, 47, Osceola, commitment, March 13.

Nicole R. Morris-Maclean, 28, Hayward, commitment, March 13.

Wayne A. Mosay, 19, Shell Lake, arrest warrant – complaint, March 10.

Matthew J. Moylan, 32, Woodbury, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Stephanie C. Nelson, 29, Frederic, commitment, March 13.

Jonathon C. Oiyotte, 29, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Julie A. Oliger, 49, Pine City, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Afton L. Olson, 25, Cushing, commitment, March 13.

Robert D. Olson, 42, Siren, commitment, March 13.

Bruce A. Parker, 57, Minneapolis, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Brent S. Petersen, 24, Luck, commitment, March 13.

Felicia M. Peterson, 20, Welch, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Daniel P. Petro, 46, Hinckley, Minn., commitment, March 13.

James E. Pettis, 26, Colfax, commitment, March 13.

John E. Pierce, 39, Cambridge, Minn., arrest warrant – complaint, March 14.

Adam W. Polski, 24, Burnsville, Minn., commitment, March 13.

John P. Polski, 20, Danbury, commitment, March 13.

Robert W. Proulx, 46, Luck, commitment, March 13.

Heather R. Richison, 29, Blaine, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Joseph E. Roberts, 26, Superior, commitment, March 13.

Troy J. Roberts, 20, Spooner, arrest warrant – complaint, March 14.

Tamara A. Rutzen, 39, Webster, warrant – failure to appear, March 12.

Somer L. Sampson, 29, Pine City, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Norman W. Schlecter, 48, Sioux Falls, S.D., commitment, March 13.

Kevin L. Shabaiash, 21, Webster, warrant – failure to appear, March 11.

Nicholas K. Smith, 17, Grantsburg, commitment, March 13.

Khris A. Spencer, 34, Danbury, commitment, March 13.

Jesse J. Stevens, 24, Duluth, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Mark Stoner, 37, Webster, commitment, March 13.

Daniel E. Stypula, 40, Cumberland, commitment, March 13.

Emily A. Sutton, 25, Webster, arrest warrant – complaint, March 14.

Brent D. Tackett, 33, Barnum, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Bryan Thalin, 21, Danbury, commitment, March 13.

Jeffrey A. Tischner, 40, Rogers, Minn., commitment, March 13.

Jimmie C. Trumbull, 23, Cumberland, commitment, March 13.

Ruth E. Wallace, 29, Springbrook, commitment, March 13.

Burnett Co. sheriff’s report Accidents Town of Rusk, March 14: Timothy M. Bearden, 43, Edina, Minn., lost control of his vehicle when northbound on County Line Road. The vehicle left the roadway and hit a barbed-wire fence. No injuries were reported, but there was moderate damage to the vehicle. Two citations were issued to the driver.

Other incidents Town of Wood River, March 10: Travis E. Rikkola, Grantsburg, reported damage to his ice house on Wood Lake.

The incident is under investigation.

Town of Roosevelt, March 14: Kathy S. Carter, Siren, reported an altercation between her and her boyfriend, Douglas Foster, Barronett. Foster had reportedly left the scene of the fight. The incident is under investigation.

Village of Grantsburg, March 15: The back door of the post office was kicked in. A fire extinguisher was set off and graffiti was painted on glass. Three sets of footprints were found at the scene. The incident is under investigation.

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

Burnett Co. deaths Glen R. Wicklund, 61, Daniels, Feb. 5.

Edward C. Ross, 86, Grantsburg Township, March 3.

Notices

E-mail us @ the-leader @centurytel.net PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Notices / Employment

Siren police report March 4: Mike Rossow, 27, Danbury, was cited for trespass to a dwelling in a case involving a former employee returning items to an employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office during nonbusiness hours.

March 15: Laura J. Wolf, 28, Siren, was cited for speeding.

Wolf was stopped in the Olsen Drug parking lot at 5:11 p.m.

At 5:49 p.m., Jeffrey Dewell Moose, 47, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was cited for speeding. Moose was stopped on Main Street and First Avenue.

March 16: Bryt L. Jeske, 27, Amery, was stopped on Hwy. 35 and Tower Road at 1:16 a.m.

He was cited for operating while intoxicated and driving with a

prohibited alcohol concentration of .10 percent of higher.

Phillip Clement Snyder, 23, Winona, Minn., was cited for OWI, operating with a PAC of .10 percent or higher and having an open intoxicant in his vehicle.

Snyder was stopped at 3:15 a.m. on Main Street by the Salvation Army shelter after the officer on duty had observed his driving behavior along Hwy. 35/70.

Edward Monro Brown, 25, Red Wing, Minn., was cited for speeding and operating without a valid driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license during at stop on Hwy. 35 and Lake Street at 2:52 p.m..

Jeramie David Christianson, 28, Danbury, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 70 near Ellis Avenue at 6:47 p.m.

Burnett County civil court Capital One Bank vs. Kari A. Budge, Webster, $1,390.45.

Gary Kaefer DDS vs.

Sharon Erickson, Siren, $854.60.

Town of Dewey vs. Tom Brown, Hertel, $425.39.

Surgery Clinic of Spooner vs. Daniel J. Johnson, Grantsburg, $1,973.00.

Diagnostic Radiology Association vs. Steve Mishler, Danbury, $696.61.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

Notices / Employment

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

Employment / Notices

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Star Party

Liza Hartshorn eyes Saturn through one of the three telescopes WCCO meteorologist Mike Lynch brought to the Grantsburg High School last Thursday night. It was a great night for stargazers of all ages.

Nelson School happenings

Kindergarteners Austin Anderson and Hailey Alden showed their fingerpainting techinique at Nelson Primary School last week as part of a math lesson. The students in Mrs. Teigen’s class were learning how to count by ones, twos, fives and tens. The painters used their new math skills, counting by fives to make their handprints. Later, they had the opportunity to use finger paint on larger, finger paint paper. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

GRANTSBURG - WCCO radio meteorologist Mike Lynch invited would be star-gazers to Make the Stars Your Old Friends at his Star Party at Grantsburg High School last Thursday night. The audience learned about stars, planets, galaxies and constellations with the

help of several powerful telescopes Lynch brought with him, one of which is the biggest mobile telescope in Minnesota. Lynch’s Star Party was sponsored by Grantsburg Schools Community Education Department. — Priscilla Bauer

WCCO’s meteorologist Mike Lynch, who admits to being a star watcher since age 15, adjusts one of the mobile telescopes he brought to Grantsburg High School last Thursday night for his Star Party presentation. The large group of stargazers didn’t seem to mind standing in line for a close-up view of the moon, the planet Saturn and the constellations.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 19, 2008

B i g, a n y w a y y o u l o o k a t i t

This semi, loaded with a huge piece of equipment, stopped traffic and closed highways as it passed through Siren stopping in Alpha last Friday, bound for Montana. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

F i sh i n g l e s so n An eagle demonstrates how to catch a bull's-eye at a fishing hole on White Ash Lake. - Photo by Keri Michele

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Leader INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

‘Follow the Leader’

Currents N O R T H E R N

March 19, 2008 2nd Section B Inter-County Leader

News and views from the Northwest Wisconsin community

Greetings from Japan

by Charles P. Stanislaw TOKYO, JAPAN - In August 2006, I took a major step in my life and moved from the one traffic-light village of Grantsburg to the largest metropolitan area in the world, Tokyo, Japan.

According to a recent story on the front page of the Japan Times newspaper, the current combined population of the Tokyo/Yokohama metropolitan area is 35.7 million people. I live right in the middle of it all.

My name is Charles Stanislaw. I went from being the K-12 guidance counselor at Siren Schools to being the middle/high school counselor at St. Mary’s International School in Tokyo.

St. Mary’s is a Catholic boys school of

about 1,000 pre-K to grade 12 students.

The student body is made up of 30-percent American citizens, 20 percent from other countries and 50-percent Japanese.

Also, a percent of the student body are non-Christians. Seven of our parents are ambassadors. We have one parent who is a pitcher for the L.A. Dodgers, along with a couple of students who are Japanese actors.

We are an English-speaking school, using a U.S.-based curriculum and offering an I.B. (international baccalaureate) diploma. Typically, 100 percent of the graduating class will go on to a college or university somewhere in the world, with most studying in the U.S., Canada or Europe.

Former Siren School guidance counselor Charles Stanislaw is shown here with famous Japanese artist Mai Miyake during Career Day 2008. – Photos submitted

This photo shows Japanese ladies in their winter kimono dress. According to Charles Stanislaw, women, old and young, can be seen in their kimonos all the time on Tokyo streets.

This photo was taken during cherry-blossom time near the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan.

One major difference from the U.S. educational system which I have noticed is that, if a student belongs to an organization, school club or sports team, they must have a current passport at all times because an “away game” may mean flying to Guam, Okinawa, Seoul or Bangkok to play.

I will be spending this Easter break with my friends Mickey, Minnie and Pluto at Disneyland in California where I will be helping chaperone our International Choir which will be performing there. Last month, they performed in Vancouver, Canada. Last year they traveled to Budapest. In my first year here, I managed to visit seven countries, either on school business or vacation.

Japan is a very beautiful country, rich in tradition and culture. On any day you will see many ladies, both young and old, walking around dressed in a ki-

mono. I recently attended a Sumo tournament, the rules of which basically haven’t changed in 400 years.

Japan has the best train system in the world. Once you understand the basics, it is very easy to go anywhere in Tokyo without any problem. From my house I can be in central Tokyo in 30 minutes or Yokohama in 25 minutes. I am glad that I don’t need to have a car.

Japan is a very safe country; there is probably more crime committed in just St. Paul, Minn., per month than in all of Tokyo. Most people here still do not lock either their house or car doors.

Japanese people are extremely helpful and very friendly. Many times, when I have pulled out a map at a train station, someone has stopped and asked if they can help me. One time, when I could not

See Japan, page 2

Mt. Fuji, at 12,388-feet high, is located 60-70 miles west of Tokyo, Japan. The mountain last erupted Nov. 24, 1707.

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

Japan/from page 1 find an address of another teacher’s apartment, I asked a postal worker who was delivering mail where the apartment was. He stopped his delivery route and walked me the two blocks to the right apartment door.

The hardest part about living in Japan is the lack of English on menus and other signs. I have bought food items at the supermarket only to discover that they were something completely different than what I had expected. Learning to

read and speak Japanese is extremely difficult. I do miss speaking English once I leave St. Mary’s at the end of the school day.

I love living in Japan. At this point in time, I plan to stay here for a few more years, especially since St. Mary’s is currently building a new $50 million school.

I am hoping that my new office will be facing Mt. Fuji, only about 60 miles away and a symbol of good luck.

Sayonara.

The colorfully dressed wrestlers pictured here are ready to take part in a sumo tournament, a competitive contact sport in Japan.

U. S. Air Force First Lt. Derek Spear from Rice Lake spoke to the boys at St. Mary’s International School, Tokyo, during Career Day 2008. Spear, who is stationed in Japan, is the son of former Siren High School guidance counselor Gary Spear. “He was a big hit with the boys,” Charles Stanislaw said.

To Tokyo from Siren

The three third-grade classes at Siren Elementary School show letters and candies they received from third-graders at St. Mary’s International School in Tokyo, Japan. The student-to-student exchange was arranged by former Siren guidance counselor Charles Stanislaw. The Siren students, under teachers Jill Tinman, Carrie Miller and Robert Blithe, have received two correspondences from Japan. They sent one over there at Christmas, and are working on a second to be in the mail within the next week. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Third-graders at Siren Elementary School are at work now on their second correspondence to students in the same grade at St. Mary’s International School, Tokyo, Japan. They are making paper self-portraits, what they call “egg-ceptional people” in honor of the season.

The student-to-student exchange was started by St. Mary’s middle/high school guidance counselor Charles Stanislaw. Stanislaw, a longtime Siren staff member, left Siren and the United

States for the position in Tokyo in the fall of 2006.

There are 37 students in third grade in Siren compared to 25 (soon to be 24 as one is moving) in Tokyo, meaning that some of the Japanese students will be writing two letters to Siren’s one.

The first letters written from Japan to Siren included basic information about the students, i.e. their name, age, grade and their family. Examples of origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, were sent. A video of St. Mary’s International School was also sent.

Siren students sent photographs of themselves, and told the students in Japan about the ways Christmas is celebrated in their families. According to teacher Jill Tinman, postage to send those letters was quite expensive, amounting to $25 for the first batch.

The return letters from Japan, received just recently, included special items sent by the students – comics created by one young Japanese artist, Pokemon-character cards, and candy sent by Stanislaw for sampling.

“We’re planning on sending a treat (to

them) sometime,” Tinman said, referring to some type of American treat that the people in Japan aren’t already able to purchase.

While the Japanese students are ahead of the students from Siren in that they speak two languages, the classes are basically on the same educational level, a level that has been enriched by the personal exchanges made possible by Stanislaw.

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I Heart Wisconsin

by Josie Fisk a Big Wisconsin boy burly bearded & uncouth wearing a royal blue choir robe (underneath: black T with a tractor graphic & thick red suspenders) up w/the old ladies wearing crosses & kind, somber Easter faces standing when they stand, falling when they fall, bowing his grey-streaked beard in prayer like an old testament man a prophet w/a bold throat & greasy hands strangely beautifully out of place perfect in his bass place.

PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Gladys Frokjer at 483-3208 or Iris Holm 284-3174 for more information. - submitted

Writer’s Corner

(The performance by The Ecumenical Choir at East Balsam Baptist Church last Easter season inspired Fisk to write this poem.)

Poem

by Alise E. Leguizamon I have read many stories of old, either imagined by one or real, of kings and warriors bold Who lived their lives with great zeal.

Whose nobility was grown into and lasting character was hard won in both peacetime and battles sent in to,

gaining them a name remembered when life was done.

But what good are these stories told if none present there be that dare to not leave them just stories of old but make them their own stories fair?

Where now the one willing to pay the price to serve both great and small?

Who will offer their life a sacrifice, and in so doing, to gain the all?

Will you be one to serve, as king, the King above us all?

To one day bend the knee and with voice ring Out praises in His great hall?

Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Each month we have a topic to write about and read to the group. The following writing was read at the last meeting. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-349-2761 for more information about the organization.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

Northwestern Wisconsin Caregiver Conference to be held April 22 SIREN — The Northwest Wisconsin Caregiver Conference, The Caring Journey, will be held on Tuesday, April 22, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Lodge in Siren.

Caregivers, family members, health-care professionals and volunteers are all encouraged to attend. Everyone wishing to learn more about being a better caregiver, learning strategies for taking care of persons with Alzheimer’s or other related dementias and illnesses should attend. This year each participant will receive a free caregiver book titled, “Coach Boyles’ Playbook for Alzheimer’s Caregivers.”

The planning committee is very please to announce

an excellent venue of speakers this year. Dr. Mark Sager, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute-Madison, will present information on Alzheimer’s disease, research, medications and treatments. Dr. Kim Petersen and wife Gail Petersen, PhD, well-known presenters in the field of geriatrics and dementia services, will present sessions about the understanding the caregiver journey, new technology to improve dementia care and health benefits of humor. A special guest will share their personal journey caring for a loved one.

Prepare in advance for this conference. Bring your questions, thoughts and comments for a question and

answer session, ask the experts with Gail and Kim Petersen and your own community resources.

It will be an event-filled day with good education, a hearty meal and fellowship with other caregivers.

Doors open and registration begins at 8 a.m. The conference fee is $18, which includes the book, materials, educational sessions, continental breakfast, lunch and snacks. For a brochure or information call the Alzheimer’s Association at 715-934-2222. Brochures will also be available at county aging offices. — from Northwest Wisconsin Caregivers

St. Croix Valley Healthcare Foundation selects scholarship winners ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Valley Healthcare Foundation has selected two area students pursuing a degree in a health care field to receive a $500 scholarship award. Recipients are Melanie Hicks of North Branch, Minn., who is pursuing an LPN degree at Pine Technical College. Hinks is an employee of SCRMC. The second recipient is Melissa Still of Shafer, Minn., who is pursuing a radiology degree at the College of St. Catherine’s. Still works for a group home and volunteers in radiology at the medical center.

For many years, the foundation has provided scholarship assistance to individuals from area communities who are entering or are furthering their education in a health care field. Each year, a percentage of foundation funds are earmarked to the Scholarship Award Program. Scholarships of varying amounts are given to individuals who are studying in a health care field. Many past scholarship recipients now are putting their education and experience to work in our region and several are employed at St. Croix Regional Medical Center. We

welcome any area resident to join the foundation, or give a gift to support health care scholarships.

The foundation also awards spring scholarships to graduating high school students. Please contact Kara Holden at 715-483-0587, to obtain an application or to join the foundation. The direct line for information is 715-483-0587 or e-mail to foundation@scrmc.org. You may also read about the foundation online at www.scrmc.org. - submitted

Foundation members Mike Rochford and Bonnie Fehrenbacher present checks for $500 to Melanie Hicks (L) and Melissa Still (R). – Photos submitted

Opportunity for musical groups to try out new band shell SIREN – The dedication ceremony for the new band shell in Crooked Lake Park will be held at 9:30 a.m. Friday, July 4. At that time, the Siren/Webster Rotary Club will turn the band shell over to the village of Siren, which will be responsible for band-shell use and main-

tenance from that time forward.

Members of the Siren/Webster Rotary Club hope that, as a special activity for the community, various musical groups will be willing to volunteer their time to perform in the band shell during the opening day. Any-

one with musical talent or connections can call Greg Hunter at The Pour House, 715-349-2954, or Kelly Hibbs at Bremer Bank-Siren, 715-349-2191, to get on the schedule. – Information submitted

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

Maple syrup season

by Russ Hanson With the springlike temperatures last week, we moved to the cabin and put out our first 100 taps in the maple trees.

They hadn’t started running as of Sunday, but we are hopeful that they will start any day now. We are expanding to a larger area this year and more taps than last year. The price of syrup is good, we have more equipment and time this year and more help.

In a good year, with good sugar maple trees, each tap hole should make one quart of syrup. Our sap runs about 3 to 4 percent sugar content. It takes us approximately 35 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. That means each tap hole should run about 35 quarts of sap that has to be boiled to make one quart of syrup.

Sap does not run steadily nor evenly.

During a normal season, mid-March to mid-April, there will be two or three “runs” where each tap may produce several gallons of sap per day for one to three days. There are many days with no sap, others with a gallon or so and then the big runs. It is almost impossible to predict when the trees will run or how early or late the season will be. Last week would seem to be perfect weather (temperatures below freezing at night and above in the day), but there has to be enough warm, consistent weather to get the trees to start. Trees on north slopes run later than those on south slopes.

Last year we had hardly any sap in March, and it only ran for about nine days in mid-April. Then it filled the 5gallon buckets almost every day. The temperatures were already very warm so any sap that couldn’t be quickly boiled, spoiled. The highest quality syrup, measured by a very delicate flavor and very light color, comes in the first cold part of the season. The end of the season sap is often dark and strong flavored.

Syrup is rated primarily by the color, where the lightest color is considered the highest grade, and the darker colors lower grades. This is not a very good system, as most people who really like maple syrup like the amber or dark amber where there is a strong maple flavor. In earlier times when maple syrup was cooked a little longer to make maple sugar, it was the only affordable table sweetener used by the pioneers. White sugar was imported and very expensive.

The lighter colored the syrup made a light colored maple sugar that better duplicated the costly white sugar. The grading has remained so that the highest quality syrup has the least maple flavor.

Sap spoils if it is not cooked quickly when the days go into the 40s and 50s.

As the days warm up in April, the syrup changes flavor. Maple trees store the sugars in their roots. When the temperatures warm up, the trees start preparing to grow leaves. They take in groundwater through their roots, dissolve the sugars in solution and transfer it to the trunk and limbs where it will be used to feed the leaves.

Most trees that are not of the maple family do not produce sap that will run out of a tap hole. A University of Minnesota professor gave his explanation of how maple trees produce sap at a meeting I attended many years ago. When it is cold, the cells in the wood in the tree trunk shrink slightly and leave space between them. These spaces act as tiny tubes (think of tiny drinking straws) all the way from branches to roots. He then showed us a tiny glass tube that he dipped in water. Water came up the tube without any vacuum or pressure applied, something our science teacher called the capillary effect (old timers might think of the way kerosene comes up the wick). Well, during the day if it warms up, the cells expand, closing the spaces between the cells - like wringing out a wet towel. Normally the bark holds in the sap, but our tap holes allow

Steve Anderson was one of several speakers at the local maple syrup producers meeting two weeks ago. The retail price of syrup has hit $50 a gallon already this spring after two bad years and the rise in the Canadian dollar.

Over 100 people came to the open house and meeting, hoping to tap into higher prices and a sweetening future for Wisconsin syrup producers. – Photo

by Russ Hanson it to drip out. The prof said it was a possible explanation, but he was not sure it was the only one.

Last year, because the sap ran very late in the season, the syrup had a somewhat off and strong flavor. We sold our last year syrup at a lower cost with a warning to the buyer that the flavor was not up to our normal standards. Later in the season there seems to be more dissolved nutrients in the sap, and possibly the warmer temperatures start fermentation earlier, to produce stronger flavored syrup. When the tree buds have started to swell, the syrup gets a biting flavor called “buddy syrup.” The end of the season syrup is graded commercial. It is sold to food producers who want to make maple flavored products. A little goes a very long way!

Commercial maple sap or maple syrup producers can get their maple woods classified as agricultural land to lower the property taxes. In Wisconsin, agricultural land is taxed at 10-20 percent of the normal rate. Ag land includes cow pasture, fields, Christmas tree nurseries, vineyards, orchards and other agricultural production land.

At the 2008 Wisconsin Maple Syrup Producers Association meeting in January in Wisconsin Rapids, a township assessor talked to us about getting maple sap producing land into agricultural classification. He said the state law has no detailed guidelines for assessors, and that the producer needed to work it out with the assessor. He did give us some idea of what assessors will look for.

It must be more than just a hobby. Evidence of that might be filing a farm tax form in your federal taxes showing expenses and sales - showing you are treating it as a business. Being a member of the WMSPA wouldn’t hurt. There was no minimum size operation; however, a few hundred taps seemed to be enough. He asked the 80 WMSPA members at the meeting what we thought would be a guideline for how many trees per acre.

After a lot of discussion, the consensus appeared to be at least 20 taps per acre.

With pails and taps, we may put two taps in a large old tree. However, many producers are moving to a high vacuum system where one tap per tree may be all they use. He also said that the acres included in maple agriculture must be producing sap, not in young trees that are not ready to tap yet.

I think 20 taps is plenty high. I have huge 100-plus-year-old maples with very large spreading crowns -maybe 10 trees per acre and all the crown space filled. If I used a vacuum system I might choose to put one tap per tree, where some producers have telephone pole trees and may get 50 taps per acre.

Pasturing maple woods is not recommended. Animals damage trees, compact the soil and prevent new trees from growing. I have lots of 2 inch diameter groves of maples that are too young to tap that grew up in the 15 years since the cows were sold. I like to wait until trees are 10 inches or more in diameter before

tapping them. To get this area to count as maple syrup producing acres, I would have to tap some of the young ones that I plan to thin out later. I wouldn’t get much sap and would damage the small tree, but it should meet the requirements of actively collecting sap from the land.

We used to drill 5/8 inch diameter holes in the trees about 2 inches deep per tap. Gradually the recommended hole diameter has been decreasing. Smaller holes do less damage and heal more quickly and produce almost as much sap as the larger ones. I use 1/2 and some at 7/16 now. Vacuum systems draw more sap from around the tap hole and those producers tend to use the smallest tap size (as low as 5/16) and still get more sap than the large holes without a vacuum.

Three weekends ago we had a local meeting of maple syrup producers at Anderson’s Maple Inc. near Cumberland, a local supplier of syruping equipment and the largest bottler of maple syrup in the Midwest. There were well over 100 people who came and listened to several speakers. Allen Hustad of Hustad’s Sugarbush, Greg Pittman of Arkansas, Duane Lindh of rural Frederic, and Steve Anderson, our host.

Among the things I learned were: vacuum systems give you up to 20 percent more sap per tap hole; tap holes quit running sooner with plastic equipment than with metal; one large producer redrills his holes after the first three weeks with a bit 1/64th larger to get a longer run of sap; Canada (mostly Quebec) produces over 80 percent of all the syrup produced in the world; the Canadian dollar has moved up with respect to the U.S. dollar increasing the cost of most maple equipment and supplies (manufactured in Canada) and bringing the selling price of syrup higher too in U.S. dollars; syrup will be retailing at $50 per gallon this year due to the Canadian situation and two years of poor production, making syrup in short supply right now.

Two maple syrup producers in our area will buy sap. They pay by the quantity and quality. The sap price is somewhere around 10 cents per point per gallon. What that means is if your sap is 1 percent (one point) sugar content you get 10 cents a gallon. Since my trees are about 3.3 percent, I might get 33 cents per gallon. Of course you should call the buyers to check if they want sap. The two sap buyers who were at the meeting were Duane Lindh on Hwy. I north of 48 and Allen Hustad between Cumberland and Rice Lake on Hwy. 48. You can be paid in syrup or money.

Producers who want to process a lot of sap can buy a reverse osmosis filter.

They are very expensive. Sap goes through the filter and up to 75 percent of the water is removed, thus saving 75 percent of the cooking time. This is a big cost saving on the fuel for cooking. Steve Anderson told us that some syrup that goes through several layers of reverse osmosis filtering has a “weak” maple fla-

vor. The maple flavor is not in the maple sap. It is created in some kind of reaction of the sap with heat, sort of a carmelization process. If you take maple sap and remove the water from the sugar by freeze drying it you get a sweet flavored sugar with no maple flavor. You can blend end-of-the-season strong flavored syrup with the weaker flavored syrup to even it out.

If you produce your own syrup to sell yourself, you don’t need a license and inspection of your facilities by the state of Wisconsin. If you sell your syrup wholesale to stores or other outlets, you are supposed to be licensed and inspected.

This makes it attractive to sell your sap in return for syrup produced at a licensed facility if you want to wholesale your own brand of syrup. If you want to sell syrup, you should check with local syrup sellers and bottlers for their requirements. Most will buy your syrup.

Almost all maple syrup produced is naturally organic. This generally means that there are no chemicals or antibiotics used in growing or producing the syrup other than natural ones. Trees along a fertilized or sprayed field aren’t organic as they may have traces of the chemicals.

However, to get certified to produce organic syrup, there is a large paper trail and expense. You must keep records of where the trees were located, that they are the proper distance from nonorganic fields, and of your process. One of the producers said that small producers (under $5,000) are exempt from this for their own syrup. I couldn’t find any details on it.

Maple syrup should be properly labeled, including nutritional labels. The WSMPA has a Web site that gives some of this information. The labels are available at maple supply businesses. The cost of joining the WMSPA is $30 for producers with 500 taps or less per year.

Larger operations pay more. This includes membership in the national organization too.

There are regular newsletters and meetings and lots of support. This year there was no Wisconsin Maple Queen candidate, the first time this has happened.

Our local maple syrup producers meeting was well attended this year, so we will probably try another one next spring. If you want to try making syrup, visit with a local producer or stop at Anderson’s and get a beginner’s kit, a video and advice.

We expect the sap to have started running by the time you read this. Every year is different. We are coming off of two poor years, so are hopeful this year will be one with our pails running over.

Margo just finished her chiropractor visits from last season, has loaded up on painkillers, and has her back in good shape for six weeks of carrying two 40lb. pails of sap at a time up and down the icy hills. Her seven-year-old surgery for a ruptured disk has been holding up well with the back braces she wears. I think with her new cleated boots, she will get around the hills just fine this year. I got them for her on our anniversary a few weeks ago. I wonder if some of those Roger Clemens vitamin shots would help? I notice that each year as we increase the number of buckets, she seems to lose a little of her enthusiasm.

If you make maple syrup or have old pictures or memories of syruping, or other old skills, share your story with us at russhanson@grantsburgtelcom.net 715-488-2776. We are back in Wisconsin, so if you have Cushing information to share for our books, please get in touch.

I visited with a lot of you last year and had intended to return for more information - but my remembering ability seems to be slipping even faster than my ability to carry 10 gallons of sap up an icy hill-so give me a call and remind me to copy those pictures or stories. We are still putting the Cushing history book together with a goal of finishing by the end of March.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

How early is Easter Do you realize how early Easter is this year? As you may know, Easter is always the first Sunday after the first full moon after the Spring Equinox (which is March 20). This dating of Easter is based on the lunar calendar that Hebrew people used to identify Passover, which is why it moves around on our Roman calendar. Found out a couple of things you might be interested in! Based on the above, Easter can actually be one day earlier (March 22) but that is pretty rare.

Here’s the interesting information. This year is the earliest Easter any of us will ever see the rest of our lives! And only the most elderly of our population have ever seen it this early (95 years old or above!)

And none of us have ever, or will ever, see it a day earlier!

The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be the year 2228 (220 years from now). The last time it was this early was 1913 (so if you’re 95 or older, you are the only ones that were around for that).

The next time it will be a day earlier, March 22, will be in the year 2285 (277 years from now). The last time it was on March 22 was 1818. So, no one alive today has or will ever see it any earlier than this year!

(The above has been making the rounds the last couple of weeks. Overwhelming news!)

Here on the farm On Saturday I told my sons, “I’m going to make sweet rolls today.” It was my effort to cheer everybody up as we are all winterweary and anxious for spring.

I mixed the basic ingredients and added the first cups of flour. It didn’t look very white. It looked gray.

I did what I’m always telling my sons, “You have to read the label.” So I did! It said whole wheat.

Oh, my, I’m not making whole wheat cinnamon buns. I’ll have to make bread instead. I told my sons I changed my mind.

I remember when I used to buy real stone ground whole wheat flour with read flakes in it. Now it looks more gray than brown until I add molasses. I promised sweet rolls this weekend although it should be hot cross buns on Easter weekend.

Does anything tantalize more than the fragrance of bread baking?

Holy Week is special with the palm leaves, the promise of flowers to come, serious meditations and songs of the glory of Easter.

This turns out to be the week that daffodils are blooming in vases in many of our homes, meeting halls and churches. Such a sunny, bright flower standing for hope and encouragement as much as the Easter lily.

What about my bread? How did it turn out? We like

Bernice Abrahamzon

BEHIND THE

round, cottage loaves but I also make regular loaves. My two grandmothers made bread, but my mother did not make a weekly habit of it.

One of my Swedish aunts made saffron bread. She bought those threads of yellow saffron packaged in a little glass vial at the pharmacy. She also made cardomon bread.

I notice there are some good flour specials this week. Bread is basic, the staff of life.

SIGNPOST

In Christ we have A love that cannot be fathomed; A life that can never die; A righteousness that can never be tarnished; A peace that can never be understood; A rest that can never be disturbed; A joy that can never be diminished; A hope that can never be disappointed; A glory that can never be clouded; A light that can never be darkened; A happiness that can never be interrupted; A strength that can never be enfeebled; A purity that can never be defiled; A beauty that can never by marred; A wisdom that can never be baffled; Resources that can never be exhausted.

Over the hill and on a roll Retirement is wonderful if you have two essentials – much to live on and much to live for.

••• Maturity is when you can sense your concern for others outweighing your concern for yourself.

••• The true art of memory is the art of attention.

Happy Easter Until next week, Bernice May you be an hour in Heaven, before the devil knows you’re gone.

Local author presents adventure for new SCF library Public asked to support the new St. Croix Falls Library project ST. CROIX FALLS - On Saturday, April 5, at the high school commons, local author Phil Peterson Sr. will tell the story of the world’s greatest canoeist.

Verlen Kruger, the humble son of an Indiana sharecropper, never set foot in a canoe until the age of 42, and then paddled more than four times the distance around the earth, over 100,000 miles! It’s an adventure story of life experiences most find astounding.

This dinner/theater style evening is one in a series of events being held in support of the new St. Croix Falls Library building fund. Locals will be able to enjoy the presentation Peterson has made at the Minneapolis Humphrey Center, Madison’s Canoecopia, Michigan State University and other colleges and forums throughout the country for the last two years. He is do-

nating this presentation to raise funds for the new library building renovation.

Chef Ross, of the Tangled Up In Blue restaurant in Taylors Falls, is donating his skills of cuisine by creating the three-course gourmet dinner to be served at 6 p.m. in the high school commons. Treat your taste buds to an evening out and blue food! Bending Branches has donated an Espresso Paddle as a door prize.

The presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m. Several Kruger expedition canoes will be on display, including one with over 30,000 miles on it, so guests will be able to kick tires after the presentation. Fine dining, an inspiring story, incredible pictures in live presentation, as you lend your support to the new library project. To learn more of the world’s greatest canoeist before April 5 go to verlenkruger.com Limited seating, reservations required. Dinner-theater tickets, adults $30. For reservations or information call SCF Public Library on 715483-1777. - submitted

Film series continues at Café Wren LUCK - The last in a three-film series on the economy will be shown at the Cafe Wren on Monday, March 24, at 6:30 p.m. “Why We Fight” filmed during the Iraq War, seeks to answer the question: Why does America engage in war?

Through personal stories of soldiers, government officials, scholars, journalists and innocent victims, the film examines the political and economic interests and ideological factors behind American militarism. The film was the winner of the 2005 Sundance Grand Jury Award.

The series called “Where Has All the Money Gone?”

has looked at the debt crisis, the cost of energy, and in this final installment— the military, industrial complex and the defense lobby. Admission is free. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

The films are being sponsored by the Anathoth Community Farm, Frederic Community Education, Milltown Library, Legacy Solar, Natural Alternative and West Denmark Social Forum. If there is enough interest in the community, an ongoing series of documentary films will continue throughout the year. For more information call 715-472-8721. - submitted

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago The Leader had a section entitled Society Page.-The Midwest will be hit hardest by the proposed dairy price cuts.-A huge crowd heard Sen. Morse at Barron Electric Co-op annual meeting.-Polk County farm families made improvements with FHA loans.-Judicial election, town meetings were coming on Tuesday, April 1.-The annual meeting of the West Sweden Co-op Creamery was held March 28.-Clam Falls Lutheran Ladies Aid held a bake sale March 29 in the Show Room of the Chevrolet Garage, Frederic with pie and coffee served, starting at 10 a.m.-Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included angel food cake mix at 39¢ box, 5 jars of strawberry or raspberry preserves at $1 and Libby’s canned peach halves at 29¢ tin.-Lew Lawson had an Easter Sunday, March 30 flower show (and how we all looked forward to that).-The film “Twelve Angry Men” was playing at the Frederic Theatre.-The film “Old Yeller” was playing at the D’Lux Theatre at Luck.-Specials at The Super Market, Danbury, included 5 cake mixes for $1, bacon was 49¢ lb. and Maxwell House coffee was large 6-oz. jar for $1.-Frederic Feed and Flour published an ad saying “Bring your seed oats to us for cleaning and treating.”-Ardex Minerals was highly advertise for dairy cows.

40 Years Ago Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included Russell Burbank potatoes at 69¢ for 20-lb. bag, Co-op cookies for 3 lbs. of cookies at 89¢ and young Tom turkeys for 29¢ lb.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic included Braunschweiger at 47¢ lb., celery at 19¢ and Elm Tree frozen bread at 3 loaves for $1.It was Free International Harvester Pancake Day scheduled for Thursday, March 28, at Maki’s, Grantburg.-Carlson Hardware had bargains on household items including small appliances.-Customers were invited to build their own toy town with new Land O’ Lakes milk cartons.-A Minneapolis owner wanted all buyers to offer a price on Bridge Resort, Calm Lake Narrows with 3 modern cabins and 5-bedroom home throught Fremont Real Estate.-Ed McKenzie heads the County College Ass’n.-A pancake supper was served March 28 by Zion-Grace Luther League of Trade Lake.-The Frederic School Board began its study of budget for the coming school year.-The old summer kitchen at the Elmer Gruel farm burned.-A beer license was an issue for Bone Lake voters.-Surplus commodies were being distribtued at several sites.-It was photo day at the Co-op Food Market, Frederic, coming on April 10.

20 Years Ago Velvet swivel rockers were available at Frederic Interiors for $159 or 2 for $299.-The 16th Wild Rivers Gun Collector’s Show was held March 26 and 27, at the St. Croix Falls Middle School.-Capeside Cove Good Samaritan Center was accepting applications for nursing assistants.-Redman’s Business Services wanted to rent office space.-Webster had to modify sewer system by 1991.-Swiss Town clerk, JoAnne Zillmer, resigned after six years in the position and was replace by Barbara Peppler.-Lake 26 dump in Swiss Township was closed.-Jean Schmidt wrote a new book entitled “Those Years of Our Other World” about a vacation hideway of 40 acres in Price County.-More space, more teachers needed at Grantsburg School.-Siren student of the month was Chad Morse.-Sen. Bob Dole, Republican presidential candidate, visited Amery on Farm City Day.-Obituaries included Lucille Clausen Hahn, Elmina Peterson, Jack Lane, Alva Long, Jess Petersen, Anna Muller and Agnes Nielsen.-Authorities identified Chippewa Corners robbery suspects.-The Webster Elementary principal, William J. Plath, planned to retire after 40 years.-Composting is a natural alternative for household waste.-The Bail and Bottle Shop at Siren presents an unusual sales combination.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Hello, all. Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. I’m happy to report that I’m out of the contagion ward at home and am back to seeing my friends at the shelter. Also, my brother is still intact and is minding his P’s and Q’s now Blacky that he’s gotten some exercise. Life is good.

Because of my dog lifestyle, I have a lot of hours to spend thinkYAPpenings ing about things, and I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ll never figure out the human species. Three things have been buzzing around my head the last few days, and so that’s what I’m going to share with you this week.

My first quandry is why some people insist on dropping off animals at our gate after hours to be left out in the cold all night. Last Wednesday, when it was snowing and raining real hard, some people drove up in a green van (yes, we have cameras), and tied a puppy to our gate and drove off. What kind of person leaves a young animal tethered to a fence post in inclement weather and drives off? I bet they never even gave him a second thought when they went back to their nice, warm home. We’ve dubbed this young boy Gatekeeper. He is about 4 months old and is a black Lab mix. I feel bad for the poor kid. He is such a nice pup, all wide-eyed and cute. I just don’t see how anyone could give him up in such a terrible manner.

I finally got to meet Charlie, who I told you about last week. Charlie, too, is a black Lab mix that was surrendered to us. Charlie is really a happy guy and full of kisses, if you’re into that sort of thing. Blech!

Charlie was a little sad, though, the other day because he got his paws on a story about how big, black dogs languish in shelters longer than differently colored dogs. It seems to be a true fact that dogs like Charlie, and me, get overlooked when folks come to pick out a new pet. There are a lot of theories as to why this is so but, ultimately, it doesn’t make sense to me. Some of the nicest dogs I’ve met at the shelter have been big, black dogs, and we have lots of personality! I told Charlie to try and be positive. I’m as big as they

SHELTER

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Bev Beckmark

The Siren Methodist Church will be hosting the March Food and Friends Community Dinner on Tues., March 25 from 5 to 6 p.m. Come early as the food goes fast.

You still have time to put your applications in for the Moms for Kids scholarship. Stop in at the guidance office at Siren school and pick up an application, the deadline is March 31.

The Siren school will host a breakfast for parents and their kids on Wed., March 26, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Make it a point to come and enjoy a great pancake breakfast with your kids.

There is an Easter egg hunt for kids 2 to 10 years old on Sat., March 22, 1 p.m., at the Burnett County Moose Lodge just north of Siren on Hwy. 70.

It’s that time of year again, the Burnett Dairy Co-op will be having their customer appreciation day on Wednesday, March 26. Come have lunch from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and register for prizes.

My best wishes and prayers go out to Kathe Good who is in the hospital in Eau Claire.

Happy Easter to all my readers.

Lewis

Palm Sunday was celebrated with children waving real palm leaves and distributing them, and as it happened it was also the arrival of the daffodils, tight buds but waiting to open up. Ushers were Cindy and Kerry Brendel, the choir sang a special number, readers were LaVonne Boyer and Robin Peterson and the Girl Scout cookies arrived ordered from Nicole Nelson.

Marlene and Scott Nelson and Nicole recently enjoyed a little vacation visiting Marie and Bob Nelson to help celebrate Marie’s birthday. Good swimming weather down there, but rainy weather on the way home. Nicole got home in time to celebrate her birthday.

March is one of the months when the Lewis church members work at the Frederic Food Shelf. The UMW also donated to the food shelf treasury.

It is a busy week at church with choir rehearsal on Monday at 6 p.m.; Bible study on Tuesday at 7 p.m., Men’s Group on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday at Lewis at 7 p.m. Good Friday services at Lewis at 7 p.m. and Easter Sunday at 8:45 a.m.

Sending good wishes to LeRoy Jones who will undergo a heart procedure in the city.

Engagement

Stuewer/Roush Gerhard and Cindy Stuewer of Omro, and Dean and Rhonda Roush of Cushing, are happy to announce the engagement of their children, Angie and Michael.

Angie is a 2000 graduate of Omro High School and a 2005 graduate of UW-Oshkosh. She is currently teaching at Horicon High School.

Michael is a 2000 graduate of St. Croix Falls High School and a 2004 graduate of Michigan Technological University. He is currently teaching at Berlin High School.

A May 10, 2008, wedding in Omro is being planned.

Birth announcements Born at Burnett Medical Center:

Siren

Can you believe it? The calendar tells us it’s only the month of March, but with last week’s rain and the warmer temps it’s starting to feel like mid-April. We can start looking for spring flowers to start popping up soon. Take a look at the banks along the roadsides, the grass has started to green up in spots. Did you see that picture of the bear out and about in last week’s Leader? It won’t be long before they will be back checking out our backyards.

Guess the time has come to take the feeders down at night and set them back out in the morning. Even that doesn’t promise us a bear-free summer.

Those of you who are interested in watching our skies for summer storms, don’t miss the Skywarn training seminar this Thursday at the Burnett County Government Center in Room 165 at 6 p.m.

Don’t forget to stop in at the Siren Senior Center on Good Friday for their great Good Friday breadkfast starting at 7:30 a.m. and going until 11:30 a.m. There’s lots of great breakfast foods to choose from and the price is reasonable, $5 for adults and $3 for kids under 12. There is a lot of great cooks at the center. Hope to see you there.

653-4281

come, and I still found a home. You know what else is great about a black dog? We don’t show dirt!

Lastly, as you know the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade was held out in Webb Lake last Saturday, where we are perennial paraders. I didn’t go to that parade, but I did witness some shenanigans down in the Cities. This really made me scratch my head. What exactly compels some humans to drink buckets of green beer and then drop their drawers in the middle of a busy city street? People act crazier than some of the kennel cats around here! You think us dogs just lounge around and sleep all day, but we’re really just wondering what you’re going to do next.

Before I go, I guess I best rid myself of the question mark that’s been hanging over my head, with all these puzzlements, and tell you about some new buddies of mine at the shelter. One of the new guys is Shasta. He’s a black Lab, albeit a little chunky. He kinda makes my muffin top look like it was undercooked. He is a very nice guy, though, and just needs to have someone help him work off some poundage.

He’s 3ish, pretty happy-go-lucky and just wants to have some fun with a person of his own. Hershey is a chocolate Lab mix, but I understand someone has their eye on her already. She’s a pup herself. I told you about Gatekeeper, but I have to mention once more what a good little guy he is. Amazingly, he seems no worse for wear after his ordeal and is an adorable and good-natured pup. I saw a new cat in back as well - Tasha her name is. She really likes to be around people, but her curiosity might get her into trouble. She thought it might be a hoot to get in the dryer with the wet blankets and toys over the weekend, and when pulled out repeatedly before the door shut, eyed up the washing machine like it might be good fun as well. Hmmmm, cats. Humans. I think I need to go lie down for awhile. Thanks to all you nice folks that brought in food, treats and all kinds of stuff. That’s the sort of thing that gives us dogs happy dreams, knowing that you care and will be there for us. See you next week!

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org 715-866-4096.

Bernice Abrahamzon

The Siren School library had a silent auction and sale Saturday night to generate money for the library. Some very beautiful items and donations.

Isn’t it time for pussywillows to pop out? Saw our first robin last week. Our neighbor has the most beautiful black cat with the most beautiful emerald eyes. One of my sons doesn’t think many people will plant gardens this year because seeds are so expensive but because of the cost of fresh vegetables I think we will have many victory gardens to help grow some of our own food.

The squirrels are busy at the bird feeders, even black squirrels.

Saw a saw whet owl last week.

Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Imhoff hosted a first birthday party for daughter, Sarah, at their home on Sunday. It was a princess party theme. Darrell’s parents and his siblings and families of Wausau were at the party, as well as Suzanne’s parents of Rice Lake and her siblings from the Twin Cities. Local folks were Mr. and Mrs. Brian Webster and children, Rick Abrahamzon and Sheila Staples. Appetizers and entrée were enjoyed by all. The 1-year-old princess Sarah also had a castle cake for dessert.

A girl, Jayden Dunn Halvarson, born March 12, 2008, to Kyan and Candice Halvarson, Grantsburg. Jayden weighed 8 lbs., 9 oz and was 21 inches long. Jayden has a big brother, Devin Halvarson.

Grandparents are Les and Angel Demarre of Grantsburg, Lavon Pace of Mora, Minn., and Larry Pace of East Bethel, Minn. Great-grandparents are Frank Fagen of Grantsburg and Robert and Thelma Jennnings of Iowa.

••• A girl, Jolyn Mae Curry, born March 13, 2008, to Jesse Curry and Kara Lindus, Pine City, Minn. Jolyn weighed 6 lbs., 11 oz. Jolyn’s siblings are Sarah Curry and Eva Curry.

•••

Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center A boy, Jonathan Wayne Olson, born Feb. 28, 2008, to Lonnie and Donna Olson of Luck. Jonathan weighed 8 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A girl, Elizabeth Caitlyn Jerrick, born March 4, 2008, to Joseph and Andrea Jerrick of Centuria. Elizabeth weighed 5 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Anna Faith Christenson, born March 1, 2008, to Andrea and Eric Christenson, Amery. Anna weighed 7 lbs., 12 oz.

••• A girl, Isabella Kaye Owens, born Feb. 26, 2008, to Stephanie Walters and Kelly Owens of Grantsburg. Isabella weighed 7 lbs., 14 oz.

••• A boy, Easton John Nerby, born March 2, 2008, to Becky and Adam Nerby of Frederic. Easton weighed 6 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A girl, Reese Oliva Lessman, born March 4, 2008, to Todd and Amy Lessman, St. Croix Falls. Reese weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A girl, Ryanne Alivia Nykanen, born March 6, 2008, to Tracy Fizell and Rex Nykanen, Turtle Lake. Ryanne weighed 9 lbs., 9 oz.

••• A girl, Zoey Jo Bly-Larson, born March 10, 2008, to Rose Bly and Chris Larson, Frederic. Zoey weighed 5 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Rylee Christine Hall, born March 10, 2008, to Jeff and Melissa Hall, Dresser. Rylee weighed 7 lbs.

•••

Born at Amery Regional Medical Center: A girl, Faith Mary-Lynn Harrison, born March 7, 2008, to Trishia Harrison, Luck. Faith weighed 7 lbs., 4-1/2 oz.

••• A boy, Jacob Allen Mueller, born March 9, 2008, to Breanna Mueller, Clear Lake. Jacob weighed 7 lbs., 9-1/4 oz.

•••

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement

Frederic Senior Center We are steadily having our members returning after the sick bouts hit our center.

Spades was played on Monday, March 10. The winners were first Shirley Sandquist, second Vi Luke, third Marlyce Borchert and fourth Eleanor Bonneville.

Wednesday the pokeno group enjoyed playing together.

Thursday night 500 cards was played with the following winners: first Nina Vold, second Lorraine Hansen, third Nona Severson and fourth Tim Abrahamzon.

Friday pokeno was played and I was happy to see Virginia Schultz out with the gang again. Way to go Virginia.

Saturday food and fellowship was enjoyed with the tra-

468-2940

Antonson/Patterson Mr. and Mrs. Michael Koshatka are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Melissa Ann to David Edwin Patterson, son of Greg Patterson and LuCinda Haugeland. Melissa is also the daughter of the late Tim Antonson.

The bride-to-be is a 2002 graduate of Unity High School and a 2006 graduate of the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire with a business management major. She is currently working as the human resource coordinator at Menards, Inc. located in St. Croix Falls.

David is a 1996 graduate of Unity High School. He is currently working as a laborer at Hydrocon located in North Branch, Minn.

An April 26 wedding is planned at Fristad Lutheran Church in Centuria.

Amery Senior Center

by Susan Shachtman, assistant director

Now that we have that extra hours of daylight, I think we can all picture ourselves taking walks outside, working in our gardens, swimming in the lakes or just relaxing outside and enjoying the warm weather. OK, that may be wishful thinking on my part, but it sure is fun to think about. Please note that the senior center will be closed Friday, March 21, in honor of Good Friday.

Volunteers who helped with our Sunday brunch were: Carl Johnson, Nancy Hatella, Mary Lou and Ray Stanley, Ed and Helen O’Neill, Clara Garrish, Verneil Johnson, Darlene Wood, Fran Conrad, Wendell Anderson, Millie Amans and Agnes Caudy.

Wendell and Ginny Anderson hosted our 500-card party last week. First place went to Art Butler, second place to Bob Norlander and the door prizes went to Nancy Hatella and Wendell Anderson. Chuck Pahr helped out.

We have an exciting new program starting Sunday evenings at 6 p.m., April 13 through May 4. This workshop will be your chance to break through all barriers and create the life of your dreams. The cost is $35 per person for all 4 sessions. Please contact the senior center to register and pay. Class size is limited.

As the income tax deadline is fast approaching, keep in mind we still have a few appointments available for free tax help. The AARP volunteers are at the senior center on Tuesday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon, until April 15. It is recommended that you call the center for an appointment if you qualify for this service.

We have two exciting trips planned for the next few months. The first is Spring in Bloom, at the Minnesota Arboretum on Tuesday, May 13, at 8:30 a.m. You will enjoy a narrated guided tour on the Trumpet Creeper Tram, as well as the thousands of beautiful flowers and shrubs in bloom.

There is also a new arboretum restaurant which offers homemade soups and sandwiches. The cost is $30 for members and $42 for nonmembers. Please call 715-2686605 by April 21, to make your reservations.

Our other trip is a 7-day, 6-night stay in Branson from Oct. 19 to the 25. The price of $649 for members ($661 for nonmembers) includes transportation on a spacious, videoequipped motor coach, 6 nights lodging, including four consecutive nights in Branson, 10 meals and admission to six fabulous Branson shows! This is a trip you won’t want to miss. A deposit of $150 is due by June 20, 2008. Call now to reserve a seat.

If you’re looking for something fun to do on the weekend, join us for the In-home Business Expo on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors such as Mary Kay, At-Home American, Pampered Chef and many others will be displaying their wares. Lunch and snacks will be served, so come visit and see what we have to offer!

ditional corned beef and cabbage. Dinner and the dessert was a pistacio dessert that our cake baker, Clareese Marek, made. Cards and coffee hour were enjoyed.

Joyce McKinney is still hospitalized at Cumberland Hospital. Hope you will recover and be joining us again soon.

We express our sympathy to the Art Baker family. Art was a nice man and we enjoyed when he was able to come to the center with his wife, Fern.

We will be having a meal here Friday, March 21, as the meal site is closed.

No 500 cards on Thursday, due to Maundy Thursday.

We wish everyone a Happy Easter!

Dewey - LaFollette

Donna Hines and Karen Mangelsen visited Nora Searles Tuesday afternoon.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen were supper guests at the home of Gerry and Donna Hines Tuesday.

Karen Mangelsen visited Lois Snyder Wednesday morning.

Several members of Clam River Tuesday Club gathered at the home Judy Albee Thursday afternoon to work on a quilt.

Judy Albee was a supper guest of Beth and Garry Crosby Thursday.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen visited John and Diana Mangelsen Friday evening.

Beverly Brunclik and Don Schleiss had supper with

Tandy is a 2-year-old, female chocolate Labrador retriever. She came to the shelter as a stray so we do not have any papers to prove it, but she looks to be a purebred Lab. Her coat is a rich chocolate color.

She is a beauty. Tandy is attentive to people and likes to be a part of whatever you are doing. She is Arnell smart and already knows some Humane commands. Tandy will be a wonderful family pet or hiking companSociety ion, or both.

Spring is in the air and that means there are multiple stray dogs at the shelter. In the past week, 13 stray adult dogs were delivered to the Arnell shelter. The dog kennel has 16 runs, so this took some maneuvering. Luckily, some of the strays were reclaimed and a few residents were adopted so it all worked out.

We are happy to report that our long-term friend Amelia, the rott-shepherd mix, was adopted last week.

Amelia had been at the Arnell shelter for over two months. As much as we loved her and will miss her happy antics, we are overjoyed that she has at last found a home. Her size proved to be the right size for a couple who had lost their beloved shepherd the week before. Our happy Amelia will have acres to play on and a loving home.

All of the puppies featured last week have gone to new homes. There are three new puppies available for

Ardyce Knauber

Karen Mangelsen

Judy Albee Saturday. They enjoyed fish that Don and Judy had caught earlier.

Guests of Karen and Hank Mangelsen for several days have been Hannah and Grace Mangelsen.

Barry, Olivia and Josh Hines and a friend of Josh, visited Donna and Gerry Hines Sunday afternoon.

Maynard and Ronda Mangelsen visited Don and Eleanor Grunnes Sunday.

Judy Albee was a supper guest of Jeanne Taczala Sunday.

Don and Lida Nordquist and Gerry and Donna Hines visited Marlene and Bruce Swearingen Sunday evening.

HAPPY TAILS

AWAIT

adoption, a yellow Lab female, a large black Lab mix female and a border collie – springer-mix male.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St E, Amery 715 268-7387 or visit online: arnellhumane.org.

Interstate State Park News Purple martin workshop at Interstate Park ST. CROIX FALLS – Attracting purple martins to nest near your home or cabin can be a challenging yet a very rewarding experience. The largest member of the swallow family, the purple martin eats flying insects, nests in a cavity or bird house in a colony with other purple martins, and can be a real tough customer to attract. Learn tips from the experts at a purple martin workshop on Saturday, March 29, from 2-4 p.m. at the Ice Age Center at Wisconsin Interstate Park.

Leading the workshop is Johnny Anderson, a local purple martin enthusiast who has fledged over 1,000 baby martins from nine colonies of birds in just the past two years in rural Polk County. Why do the martins need our help? “The population of purple martins has declined in the state of Wisconsin due to the loss of habitat and nesting sites,” states Anderson. “We need to give them help by being a good landlord—not just putting up a martin house. They need TLC (tender loving care) to prevent starving, and invasion by house sparrows and other cavity nesters.” Anderson will show a DVD about attracting martins to your backyard, show examples of all types and designs of

houses made from gourds, tell you where and how to place them, and answer your questions based on his years of personal success attracting purple martins.

Joining Anderson is special guest Ron Seekamp, recipient of the Purple Martin Landlord of the Year Award presented by the Purple Martin Conservation Association. Seekamp will also share his knowledge and expertise, and show workshop participants his modified pivoting martin house.

The purple martin workshop is for all ages. Preregistration is requested; please call the park or leave a message at 715-483-3747.

Nature story time at Interstate Park There are just two weeks left of winter nature story time! 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. Nature story time is free of charge, but a Wisconsin State Park sticker is required to enter the park. Annual passes for 2008 are $25 for Wisconsin residents or $35 for nonresidents. For more information call Julie at 715-483-3747.

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 866-4334 Our nutrition site manager/cook Deb was very appreciative to have Dave Wardean check out/repair the leak in the dishwasher over the weekend. We at the center are also thankful to have Dave as our maintenance supervisor to ensure that all systems run smoothly and efficiently.

Lily Gleason celebrated her birthday on Saturday evening with son Bobby, Sandy Wohletz, Gene Johnson, Harold and Maxine Peterson, Deb Korhonen and Carol Berglind by dining at the Loose Change Restaurant, Danbury. Happy Birthday, Lily!

Don and Abby Brand stopped in for coffee and conversation on Tuesday morning with Deb and her staff and others.

Olive Gehrke of Balsam Lake has been visiting her daughter, Margel Ruck, and joined the group of dime bingo players on Wednesday. Twelve ladies enjoyed the refreshments furnished by Margel and Olive.

A little bird told me that Olive even won a game. We all enjoy having Olive visit because she is such a good sport and has a

Webster Senior Center great sense of humor too. I will be happy when I am able to get out of the house and join in on the fun.

Twenty-six diners including staff attended the evening meal on Thursday evening for Deb’s corned beef and cabbage dinner. Pool and cards were played afterwards. The next Dining at Five meal will be on Thursday, April 10, at 5 p.m., but I am not sure what the menu will be.

Deb baked and served a marble birthday cake on Friday to honor the birthdays of Lily Gleason, Wanda Benton, Bob Marsh, and Harlyn Pygman who is now only 88 years young. March is National Nutrition Month and Peggy Lawless won the homemade food prize drawing of six marble cupcakes in the weekly drawing.

Judy Baker spent a few days with her son, Jeremy Gronski, and family in Grantsburg as he continues his chemotherapy treatments.

If you haven’t had your taxes done yet or filed for your federal rebate, you can do so

Friendly Corners 4-H

Roy White

The Friendly Corners 4-H held their meeting on March 2. Those present were Sammi Penberthy, Roy and Carl White, Ashleigh and Brittani Hughes, Preston, Joseph and Casey Halverson.

President Ashleigh Hughes called the meeting to order. Sammi read the secretary’s report. Roy made a motion to accept as read, Carl seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Old business: Brittani reported on the Federation Board meeting. Christmas favors were discussed. Each family that re-

ceived them like them and the company.

Enrollment material was handed out.

New business: New members are the Halversons.

Next meeting will be held on Saturday, March 29, 1 p.m. at the town hall.

Joseph made a motion to adjourn. Brittani seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Brittani did a demonstration on cookies.

Ashleigh did a demonstration on making a duck tape purse.

Frederic 1915

rake.

Grand Gala Holiday at Frederic, Aug. 16, two shows, free street parade at noon featuring J.H. Eschman Worold’s United Railway Shows, two big shows combined, Arizona Bills Real Betty Historical Wild West.

Fenton Murdered on the Glide Body was on HISTORICAL top of– smoker when VIGNETTES train passed through Frederic. When the glide, the passenger train that goes through Frederic at 3:13 a.m., reached Superior Sunday morning, the body of a young man was found on top of the smoker. The man is thought to have either been murdered or been hit by an overhead bridge. His pockets were turned inside out and no money or anything to identify him was found on the body. The coroner at Superior is holding the body for identification. A notebook found on the tender of the engine is

A large acreage of beans has been put in by farmers in the territory west of Frederic. In the vicinity of Spirit Lake, the product of 60 acres has been contracted for by Northrup King and Co., the Minneapolis seedmen.

The Picket Negro minstrels showed here Wednesday night and were well received. The Pickets have been coming to Frederic annually for a number of years.

The North Wisconsin Gun Club of Frederic gave a picnic at Diamond Lake.

Eighteen guns took part in the bombardment, and with the sun in their faces and rough ground to shoot over, the marksmen did remarkably well.

L.A. Duncan, who lives south of town, was quite badly hurt last week. He was raking hay on a side hill and when he dumped the hay, the rake ran ahead onto the horses. The team became frightened and ran away. Mr. Duncan was thrown in front of the rake and dragged until the horses broke loose from the

Mary Klar

at our center on Friday, March 28, and Friday, April 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 8665300 to make your reservation to eat the nutrition meal served at 11:30 a.m. The nutrition meal for March 28 is Chicken a la King with vegetables, over baking powder biscuits, cottage cheese/lettuce salad and dessert.

Gratitude is extended to the Kathleen Van Guilder family for the beautiful floral arrangement they donated; Dan and Melanie Johnson – eggs; Gladys Beers – candy; and Terry Erickson – case of Oreo wafers.

Several diners this week who haven’t been at the center for a while are Judy Baker, Wanda Benton, Marlys Erickson and Bud Lentz.

Our get-well wishes and prayers go to Paula Buchanan, Don Carlson, Sylvia Pardun, Vernon Haaf, Christ Olson, Albert Doriott, Antone and Jeremy Gronski, Mary Klar, Nate Collins, who will be having surgery this week, and Pastor John Seidschlag who fell and injured his knee and ankle. Also sympathy and prayers go out to Abby and Don Brand in the recent pass-

Fran Krause

ing of Abby’s sister, Betty Hanschilde of Red Wing, Minn.

The dictionary’s definition of worthless is “having no worth, value, goodness, or usefulness.” In many parts of the world, including America, people are living in poverty and despair and feel as if they are worthless and that nobody cares. What would it be like to be loved by someone whose love for you is not influenced by anything you have, or ever did, are now doing, or will do; whose love could never weaken or fluctuate? You can know what it would be like, for God’s love for you is not influenced by anything you ever did or will do. His love is unconditional and will never change. The realization that God loves you can satisfy your basic need for self-worth. “The savior knows our deepest need, he knows our every care; Our Lord has promised to be near and all our burdens share.” – Anon.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:18. See you at the center!

Orange

Allyson Krause is home from college for spring break.

Mark and Kent Krause have returned from their golf outing in Houston, Texas.

Fran Krause attended the Sarah Circle meeting hosted by Hazel Keppen.

John Neinstadt returned home after working away most of the winter.

Ethel Daniels, Frances Gates from

thought to belong to the young man. In the book was the name A. Bernstein of New York. A man in New York and a woman in Illinois both claimed the body and a coroner’s jury will make an effort to unravel the mystery soon.

The glitter of circus wagons, the Negro band and the elephant have come, and likewise, have gone. The circus was limited to smaller town stands and was not up to the standard promised by the advance men, but nevertheless, it was a wonder to many of whom had never before seen a circus. People gathered for many miles around and by noon the streets were crowded with people who had come to see the first circus in Frederic. The special train arrived early Sunday morning, and many were down to see them unload and setup on the ball grounds. The vendors of lemonade, peanuts and hot dogs found but few buyers for their wares. And the fellow who manipulated three walnut shells and a frisky little round ball put in his time slipping money to the cappers and winning it back from them, for Reuben would have none of his game.

Two former town board chairmen have been convicted of allowing bounties to be collected unlawfully on wolf scalps in this county. One was fined $100 and the other $450.

Fruit jars sold at the Frederic Mercantile could be purchased at 10¢ a regular, jar rings only 6-1/2¢ a package.

There are a band of picture men working this territory that were run out of our neighborhood a few weeks ago.

They claim to burn photos on glass and will return the picture unharmed and in about two weeks another lad puts in his appearance and calls for money and your photo is only pasted on back of a glass with a cheap frame. Look out for them!

Dr. Turner has a new dog, of an unknown species, probably a cross between an alligator and a corn shredder, judging from the looks of his mug. Doc is anxious to try the dog out and invites anyone who enjoys a touch of high life

LaVonne O’Brien

Amery, and her sister, Michele Carpenter from Idaho visited Maxine Stone last week.

Many enjoyed the Home Show at the Webster High School this weekend. They were getting lots of ideas for spring projects.

Jack and LaVonne O’Brien were shoppers in Duluth on Tuesday.

to drop around some evening and attempt to lift a chicken from the Turner roost. If looks count for anything, that dog ought to be able to whip his weight in wildcats, and then some.

The Odd Fellows have vacated the rooms over the Frederic Mercantile Company’s store and have moved into the village hall for the present. The Odd Fellows hall has been the only one for lodges, dances and such entertainments and is now being used for store purposes. This has left the village without a hall of that character. The Comet Theatre has installed a stage and can handle small shows in addition to their moving picture show. The Rooster’s Club of Lewis will give a dance at that place next Saturday evening. Music will be furnished by the Webster orchestra and supper served at the Plaza Hotel.

Hunters who have been up around the Clam River report the heaviest crop of wild rice they have seen for many years. Wild rice is worth from 15 to 20 cents a pound on the market.

The Sociable Train. Most people going from, or coming to Frederic travel either on the Glide the Flyer, but the Appeals to Reason for yours truly every time. It is such a nice, sociable train, stopping at all stations and giving one a chance to say howdy to the agents and prominent citizens of the many towns along the line, and to touch elbows and Har! Har! With that army of jolly tramps, the commercial travelers. And besides, there is something about the name of the train that appeals to one. Take a ride on the Appeals to Reason, get acquainted with your neighbors, visit the Twin Cities and be back home for supper.

Martin Simonsen, one of the prosperous farmers around Frederic, has installed milking machines. The milking machine can milk 15 cows per hour, two at a time. The machine is a Hinman, and was installed by Daniel McAnley of Camerson.– from Betty Fenton, Director of Public Relations, Frederic Area Historical Society.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Franconia

Part 1 We discovered the village of Franconia back on a beautiful 1963 autumn day, and now, in observance of its 150 years of settlement along the St. Croix River, we are bringing back the article published in the Standard-Press: Coming into the sedate little community of Franconia today, a person would little suspect that this was once the rousing loggers’ playground. But the memories of the “old settlers” strip away this modern disguise.

“When I was a child,” one elderly lady recalls, “parents forbade us little girls to go out of the house when the loggers were in town.” It’s said that whiskey sold for 50 cents a gallon at the time, in this lumbering town about three miles downriver from Taylors Falls.

That was in the days when life flowed into Franconia by way of the St. Croix River: downstream boomed the “endless” timbers from the north woods, and upstream came the steamboats with goods and supplies of all sorts, and with new settlers for this territory.

Then, this was a town of some 500 souls, distributed, as an old-timer listed, between “2 general stores, 1 sawmill, 1 grist mill, 2 schools, 1 meat market, 1 flour mill, 1 plug mill, 1 restaurant, 2 hotels, 1 confectionery, 1 post office, 2 blacksmith shops, 1 stave factory, 1 jail, 3 saloons, and 1 dance hall.”

We just happened to learn that at least two of the former saloons are now part of two staid homes. One was the house where Miss Amber Vitalis lives (and the kitchen, which was later added on the back, was the saw mill office.) The other was the kitchen of the house now owned by Mr. and Mrs. William Ingeman, retired St. Paul architects.

“We found an auxiliary jail in the basement,” Mrs. Ingeman says.

“When we first started coming out here summers,” she adds, “someone told us that the ‘new’ part of the house was added after the war. In time, we learned that ‘the war’ referred to was the Civil War.” Charlie Anderson, now 82, came to Franconia from Sweden when he was 6 years old. He remembers the logging days, not only because he once logged for Edmund Brothers at Clam Falls, but,

earlier than that, as a child, he operated the Franconia ferry.

“In those days, kids had to work just about as soon as they learned to walk.” The Franconia policeman Rosemarie doubled as ferry Vezina boat operator until the town started Braatz quieting down and could no longer afford a full-time policeman. That’s when Sponsored by the Charlie got the job of ferryman.

St. Croix Falls “People on foot, Historical Society who wanted to cross the river, I’d take in the rowboat. But when they came with teams, we used the ferry. It was big enough to take on two teams at a time.”

The ferryboat, he explains, was guided by a cable slung across the river.

The power to propel the boat from one shore to the other came from the force of the flowing river against a large board, or “apron,” which the ferryman lowered into the water.

“One time I took across a team, then when I wanted to come back from the Wisconsin side, the logs were so thick in the river I thought I’d never make it.

I had to lay down flat and keep peeling the bark out of the pulley where the

A ST. CROIX TALE

cable was attached, so we could keep going.

“That river was just plumb full of logs, and I had quite a time. When I finally got to shore at Franconia, I looked upriver and all of a sudden there wasn’t a single log in sight. I figured there was a log jam, and sure enough, I found out later they’d had a big one at Taylors Falls.”

The ferry crossing was located upriver from the steamboat landing and the sawmill company, which then cov-

The Post Office was built about 1880. Previously, mail had been distributed from a general store.

BURNETT COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Burnett Community Library New arrivals: books “Honor Thyself,” by Danielle Steel “Change of Heart,” by Jodi Picoult “The Secret Between Us,” by Barbara Delinsky (2 copies) “The Purrfect Murder,” by Rita Mae Brown (2 copies) “Lady Killer,” by Lisa Scottoline “Souvenir,” by Therese Fowler “Duma Key,” by Stephen King “Blood Brothers,” by Nora Roberts “Just Beyond the Clouds,” by Karen Kingsbury “Manic,” by Terri Cheney “Sea View Inn,” By Sherryl Woods “My Mother, Your Mother,” by Dennis McCullough, M.D. “Light of the Moon,” by Luanne Rice “Song Yet Sung,” by James McBride “Beverly Hills Dead,” by Stuart Woods “Kyra,” by Carol Gilligan “My Revolutions,” by Hari Kunzru Fiction books on order: “Age of Shiva,” “Betrayal,” and “Gardens of Water”

The Merchant’s Hotel was built in 1859. Three of the men in foreground, wearing vests, are presumably bartenders in the hotel.

CDs “Between Sundays,” by Karen Kingsbury “Ever After,” by Karen Kingsbury “Protect and Defend,” by Vince Flynn “Wife for Hire,” by Janet Evanovich CDs on order “Even Now and Ocean’s Apart,” by Karen Kingsbury New adult titles in DVD “Blood Diamond,” with Leonardo Dicaprio “Michael Clayton,” with George Clooney “Mighty Heart,” with Angelina Jolie “No Reservations,” with Catherine Zeta Jones “Sicko” with Michael Moore 12 new children’s DVDs 12 inter-active easy reader book and DVD sets

ered the flat plain along the shore.

Another who can give testimony to those thriving logging days is William Wolfe, a retired Robbinsdale plumber who’s now hard at work with a crew rebuilding a concrete bridge over the St. Lawrence Creek at the south end of town.

Mr. Wolfe is both genial and ingenious, we judged, after he’d showed us the new cottage he’s building. He and Mrs. Wolfe have been “Franconiaphiles” for years, spending every free day here.

The wall boards in his cottage run up and down, with insulation placed between in such a way that air is constantly circulating through it, to fight the dampness in this low place along the river. He made a big metal woodburning stove to heat the house.

The Wolfes first came to Franconia in about 1927, and at that time, he recalls, “I could have bought that house down the road for $165. Those days are gone, too!”

John Jackson is town clerk and historian for Franconia. He asks that anyone who has photos, memorabilia, or even just memories of early Franconia contact Susan Thompson, who heads the committee to observe the Sesquicentennial event. Susan can be reached at Franconiatwpmn150years@yahoo.com or phone 612-810-8581.

Continued next week

St. Croix Valley Senior Center Many people are enjoying bingo at the center. It is played every first and third Friday of the month at 1 p.m. Come and join in the fun.

AARP tax aides assisted 39 persons at the center on Wednesday, March 12, from 9 a.m. to noon. Those volunteers will return to the center on April 2. Call the center at 715-483-1901 to reserved time at the next date.

The Tuesday afternoon domino winners were: Ione Meixner in first place, George Meixner in second place and Ione White and Janice Mevissen tied for third place.

500 card winners were: Lonnie Jones in first place, Ruth Flostrand in second place, Marion Edler in third place and Laurice Lambert in fourth place.

Anyone who is interested in joining a fun group for knitting, crocheting, etc., is invited to the senior center on Monday, March 31, at 1 p.m.

The Wonders of Being Eighty I have good news for you. The first 80 years are the hardest. The second is a succession of birthday parties. Everyone wants to carry your luggage and help you up the stairs. If you forget your name, or anybody’s name, forget to keep an appointment, or promise to be in two places at the same time, spell words wrong, you

need only explain that you are 80. At 80 you can relax with no misgivings. You have a perfect alibi for everything. Nobody expects much of you. If you act silly, it’s your second childhood. Everybody is looking for symptoms of softening of the brain.

It’s a great deal better than being 65 or 70. At that time they expect you to retire to a little house in Florida and become a discontented, fumbling has been. But, if you survive until you are 80, everyone is surprised that you are alive, surprised that you can talk, surprised that you can reveal lucid intervals. At 70, people are mad at you for everything. At 80, they forgive you for anything.

If you ask me, life begins at 80.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Phil Mevissen in first place, Don Benson in second place and Darlene Knutson in third place.

The Red Cross Blood Drive to be held on March 27, from 1 to 6:45 p.m. To make an appointment call Sharon Lofgren at 715825-3733. Walk-ins are welcome. This will be held at the Cushing Community Center.

A fun time was enjoyed by approximately 50 people on St. Patrick’s Day for supper and cards. Our gratitude goes out to Ron and Elaine Edlund for hosting this event.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Amery Public Library “Change of Heart,” by Jodi Picoult Best-selling author Jodi Picoult has tackled a difficult philosophical question in her newest novel, “Change of Heart.”

Shay Bourne, a young man convicted of murdering a police officer and his young stepdaughter, has been sentenced to the death penalty.

After 11 years on death row, his only wish is to donate his heart after his death to the sister of the young girl he killed who is waiting for a suitable heart transplant. Death by lethal injection makes the heart unusable for donation, so ACLU attorney Maggie Bloom becomes involved to change the method of death so Bourne’s wishes can be carried out, and harvesting the heart would be possible.

Father Michael, who before he entered the priesthood was on Bourne’s jury, becomes Bourne’s spiritual advisor. Or does Bourne become his? Bourne is a very unusual person, and as more and more information surfaces, the whole case becomes a media circus.

June Nealon, who lost her husband and daughter, must now decide whether to accept the heart of the man who caused the deaths.

Jodi Picoult writes her novel from several different viewpoints, and her stories always keep the reader wanting more. In “Change of Heart” she tackles the death penalty, medical ethics, a sweet romance and religious mysticism.

Readers who are fans won’t be disappointed, and new readers will be enthralled.

Library notes The Amery Public Library Board

meets on April 7, at 6:15 p.m., for their regular board meeting. The Teens Read Book Group meets a week early on March 24, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to discuss “Fahrenheit 451,” by Ray Bradbury.

Pick up a book at the circulation desk if you are a teen and join us to discuss this science fiction classic about a paperless/bookless society.

The Otaku Club meets every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. for teens who love manga and anime.

The Friends of the Library Book Group meets on April 21, to discuss “The Book Thief,” by Marcus Zusak.

This award-winning young adult novel about the Holocaust is a stunning book.

Pick up a copy at the circulation desk and join us for exciting book talk.

Friends of the Library and the fundraising committee are looking for ideas to help fund the Amery Public Library expansion. If you are interested in helping with these projects tell the librarians or leave your name and number at the library.

We still have tax forms and have 1040A federal forms, which you need to apply for your stimulus payment. We also have state and Minnesota forms.

The Amery Public Library will be closed from noon to 3 p.m. on Good Friday, March 21. The library will be open from 10 a.m. to noon and from 3 to 8 p.m.

Library hours Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Osceola Public Library Book discussion A book discussion on “The March,”

by E.L. Doctorow will be held Tuesday, March 25, at 6 p.m. E.L. Doctorow has put his unique stamp on the events of General Sherman’s march through Georgia and the Carolinas during the Civil War by staying close to historical fact, naming real people and places and then imagining the rest. Pick up a copy at the circulation desk.

Family story time: Bunnies and Eggs!

Story time: Bunnines and Eggs will be held Saturday, March 22, 11 a.m. Children, preschool through the second grade, and an accompanying adult are encouraged to come out for a themed half hour of stories, songs and fun every Saturday at 11 a.m.

Story times Children and an accompanying adult are invited to join in the half hour of fun, songs and stories every Thursday morning at 10:30 and every Saturday at 11 a.m. Keep your eyes peeled on the themed Family Story times on Saturdays. They occasionally include a small craft too!

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave. Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Three Internet computers: You must physically present a MORE library card to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer.

Coming up Lapsitter and preschool story times meet each Thursday from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Contact the library at 715-755-2944 which is our telephone and fax number or e-mail us at www.dresserpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org has information about story times, days closed, reference links, library policy and community information.

Clear Lake Public Library

St. Croix Falls Public Library Verlen Kruger paddled more than four times the distance around the earth! “All Things Are Possible: The Verlen Kruger Story” presents a sweeping, finely detailed treatise on the life and loves of this sharecropper's son turned mythic canoeist, whose courage and compulsions drove him to achieve near superhuman feats. What inspired a Michigan plumbing contractor and devout father of nine—a man who had never sat in a canoe until the age of 42—to pick up a paddle and spend the next nearly 40 years racing against time and the elements across vast continents and open seas? A rare combination of grit, discipline, and supreme self-confidence seems to be the answer, as Peterson probes the personality of the lovable, enigmatic Kruger.–Larry Rice, Canoe & Kayak magazine.

Mark your calendar for great food and fascinating stories – Saturday, April 5, at 6 p.m. Join us for a three-course gourmet dinner by Chef Ross of Tangled up in Blue Restaurant and hear local author Phil Peterson’s presentation on Verlen Kruger. An assortment of Kruger Expedition canoes will be on display. You’ll also have a chance to win a new Bending Branches Paddle valued at $100!

Tickets are available at the St. Croix Falls Public Library for $30 per person. Limited tickets – reserve early! Call 715-4831777. All proceeds benefit the new St. Croix Falls Public Library. The dinner and presentation will be at the St. Croix Falls High School. To learn more about Verlen Kruger and Phil Peterson’s book visit www.verlenkruger.com

Linus Security Blanket, and many more projects for knitters of any skill level.

Come and meet Christiansen, check out her projects, work on your own project while Christiansen talks!

Saturday Talk About the Book Club “Knitting for Peace: Make the World a Better Place One Stitch at a Time” author Betty Christiansen will be at the library on Saturday, March 22, at 10:30 a.m.

She offers 15 projects that can be knitted to support their specific causes, including the Adopt-Me Blanket, Peace Fleece Classic Wool Socks, the Knitting for Peace Messenger Bag, the Project

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Friends of the Library Next meeting: Wednesday, March 26, at noon. New members are always welcome.

Ongoing fundraising Friends of the Library / St. Croix Falls 20-month Giving Campaign. Now through 2009, the Friends of the St. Croix Falls Library invite everyone to make a 20-month pledge to help build the new library. Each person decides how much that he/she can give each month for 20 months and completes the pledge form.

Then, once a month, the person gives the amount. Any monthly amount is welcome! No amount is too small nor too big. Just imagine the new library! In 2007, the library averaged 3,500 patrons/month. If 2,000 patrons give $10 a month for 20 months, we would raise $400,000 by September 2009! Let’s do it!

How to participate?

1. Stop in the St. Croix Falls Library 2. Fill out a pledge form 3. Take home and use the 20-month giving campaign monthly coupons.

Technology Free wireless is available at the library.

Also, visit the library Web site stcroixfallslibrary.org to get information on the building project, programs at the library and much, much more!

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. every day except Saturday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Closed on Sundays.

Polk County Library Federation Polk County Library Federation Board Members Edna Bjorkman (representing the Clear Lake Library Board) and Gerald Newville (Polk County Board of Supervisors) check over the selection of newly arrived largeprint books purchased with funds donated from the St. Croix Falls Lions Club. The new largeprint books will make their way into each of the 10 public libraries in the county as well as the nursing homes in Polk County. Gratitude is extended to the St. Croix Falls Lions club for this generous donation.

For further information contact the library at 485-8680.

The director is Colleen Gifford, assistant director/youth services is Molly Kessler, and the library clerk is Stephanie

Dresser Public Library

Fansler.

The Polk County Library Federation is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

MARCH 19, 2008 - 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 here at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks.

Free wireless Internet access Bring in your own laptop and find out what you need to know to connect and take advantage of this service!

New books for March “Change of Heart” by Jodi Picoult, “Prisoner of Birth” by Jeffrey Archer, “Where Are You Now” by Mary Higgins Clark, “Buckingham Palace Gardens”

by Anne Perry. Nonfiction:“Becoming the Kind Father” by Calvin Sandborn and “100 Poems to Lift Your Spirits” by Leslie Pockell.

Book club “Iron Lake,” by William Kent Krueger will be discussed March 19 at 3 p.m. All ages are welcome.

Krueger brilliantly evokes northern Minnesota’s lake country – and reveals the dark side of its snow-covered landscape. Part Irish, part Anishinaabe Indian, Corcoran “Cork” O’Connor is the former sheriff of Aurora, Minn. Embittered by his “former” status, and the marital meltdown that has separated him from his children, Cork gets by on heavy doses of caffeine, nicotine and guilt. Once a cop on Chicago’s South Side, there’s not much that can shock him. But when the town’s judge is brutally murdered, and a young Eagle Scout is reported missing, Cork takes on a mind-jolting case of conspiracy, corruption and scandal. As a lakeside blizzard buries Aurora, Cork must dig out the truth among town officials who seem dead-set on stopping his investigation in its tracks. But even Cork freezes up

when faced with the harshest enemy of all: a small-town secret that hits painfully close to home.

William Kent Krueger author of the Cork O’Connor mysteries set in the Minnesota northwoods will be at the Balsam Lake Library Saturday, April 12, at 11 a.m. Watch for more information regarding this author visit and book signing.

Love to read and hang out with friends Are you looking for other people who share the same obsession? Join a teen book club for sixth grade and up. So far the club has read “Book of a Thousand Days,” “Animal Farm” and the Maximum Ride series. Meet at the Balsam Lake Library (under the water tower)...

Ride the activity bus right to our door.

Club will meet again on Tuesday, March 18, at 6 p.m.

Hobby and craft group Join us Saturday, March 22, at 10 a.m. here at the library. Bring a hobby or craft of your choice. Share ideas, learn new hobbies, hone skills and enjoy camaraderie. All ages welcome. We have rug hookers, knitters, artists and more. We meet every other Saturday morning.

Friends of the Library Friends Group will meet Wednesday, March 26, 3 p.m., at the library.

Balsam Lake Public Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake. Hours are Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Clear Lake Public Library The Clear Lake Public Library has been selected by the Wisconsin Humanities Council to host the newest WHC discussion series “A More Perfect Union: Domestic Tranquility.”

The books in the series focus on two key issues: How do we live peacefully on America’s vast landscape and how well do we share that landscape with others? In even broader terms, the book discussions will focus on the very human yearning for a tranquil, peaceful existence, a desire to live in safety and comfort despite the cultural clashes and economic tensions that have challenged our nation in the past and that will likely challenge us for decades to come.

Books are available through your local library. The discussions are free and open to all and will take place in the Clear Lake Area Community Center Dining Room. Refreshments will be served.

Schedule of book discussions: “The Milagro Beanfield War” - Thursday, April 17, at 2 and 7 p.m. (Movie shown at 4:30 p.m.): Discussion led by

Dr. Kurt Leichtle from the Department of History and Philosophy at UW-RiverFalls.

“Prodigal Summer” - Thursday, April 24, at 2 and 7 p.m.: Dr. Renee Gralewicz from the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at UW-Barron will lead the 7 p.m. discussion.

“The Tortilla Curtain” - Thursday, May 8, at 2 and 7 p.m.: Gralewicz will lead the 7 p.m. discussion “The Devil’s Highway” - Thursday, May 15, at 2 and 7 p.m.: Gralewicz will lead the 7 p.m. discussion.

Come early to a discussion or stay afterwards and visit “Between Fences,” the traveling Smithsonian exhibition that will be at the center April 12 - May 24.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Friday: noon - 5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

We can be reached by phone at 715-2632802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Luck Public Library Computers for Seniors is held Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to noon. The library knitting club meets Wednesdays at 4 p.m. Bring your needles and yarn and relax with us.

Preschool story hour is held Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. We focus on developing emergent reading skills and language.

Every fourth Thursday from 3 – 4 p.m. the library will host Beading with

Wilma.

Bricks are still available to purchase for our new library. Contact the village or the library for a copy of the Buy a Brick form. The building is really taking shape.

Hours: Monday 1 – 5 p.m., Tuesday 1 – 8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursday 1 – 8 p.m., Friday 1- 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to noon.

Milltown Public Library Games The new Gamers Club at the Milltown Public Library is the coolest way to spend Thursdays after school, beginning Thursday, March 27. Take the bus to the library, or get a ride from your parents, and play with the new Wii until 7 p.m.

This is only open to high school and middle school teenagers who have a library card with under $10 in fines. Find out how you can get community service credit for playing video games. Find out how reading and writing can get you more access to the Wii. For more information, call Matt at 825-2313 or e-mail milltownpl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Book club Calling all bibliophiles, rabid readers and literary looky-loos. No book assignments and no boring discussions. The next gathering of the Milltown Book Club will be May 5, at 7 p.m. The Milltown Book Club is a forum for everyone to talk about the books they love and hate, recommend books, and share their passion for reading. At our April meet-

ing, we’ll spend some time talking about Old Favorites and Classics. Refreshments will be provided.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast, wireless Internet access. No more waiting for an open computer. Surf the Net from a comfortable chair.

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 10 a.m. yearround. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Frederic Public Library The library will be closed Saturday, March 22 Please mark your calendars – the library will be closed Saturday, March 22.

We will be open regular hours Monday, March 24.

Story time at the library Preschool children and their caregivers are welcome at Wednesday morning story time at the library. Join us for stories and activities all about famous artists on Wednesday, March 26, at 10:30 a.m.

Begin your day with a morning book group The Thursday morning reading group meets March 27, at 10 a.m. to discuss “Pope Joan,” by Donna Cross, historical fiction based on one of the most controversial women in history. Copies of the books are available at the library and new members are always welcome.

Support your food shelf During March and April, the more food donated to the local food shelf, the more money they will receive from the Feinstein Foundation, a group dedicated to alleviating hunger. When you come to the library, be sure to bring some nonperishable food items – you will help keep the food shelf stocked, and the weight of your items will count toward receiving a larger monetary donation from the Feinstein Foundation. The library will also accept your checks made out to the Frederic Food Shelf.

Join us for talk about books and fences The evening book group will attend the Clear Lake community book discussion of “The Milagro Beanfield War,” by John Nichols on Thursday, April 17, at 2 p.m. at the community center. The book Story time kids at the Frederic Library made milk carton houses after listening to stories about different kinds of homes and learning the rhyme “There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe.”

Story time is open to all preschool children and their caregivers Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m.

discussion is being held during the Smithsonian Museum On Main Street program and special exhibit “Between Fences,” which is can be seen at the Clear Lake Community Center April 12 through May 24 and is free to everyone.

If you would like to be part of the exhibit tour and book discussion April 17, pick up a copy of “The Milagro Beanfield War” at the library and join us.

Need home delivery?

If you live in the village of Frederic and are homebound and cannot visit 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.

April filing deadline is getting close The basic tax forms including the Wisconsin homestead credit and rent certificate schedules are available at the library, and we can also download other tax forms from the Internet for you.

Please remember that in order to receive your one-time payment through the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, you must file a tax return for 2007, even if you do not normally have to file.

Free wireless access at the library If you have a laptop with a wireless card, bring it to the library to use the free wireless Internet access. Cozy chairs and hot coffee are waiting for you.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West.

715-327-4979, email fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular open hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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Luck Area ACS Run/Walk Finish Line kicked off at Café Wren LUCK – The 13th-annual Luck Area American Cancer Society Run/Walk Finish Line kickoff breakfast was held Friday, March 14, at Café Wren. Delicious almond nut rolls, craisin orange scones, fruit, juice and flavored coffees were enjoyed by representatives from local businesses, schools, and organizations as they received information and material on this year’s event to be held Saturday, May 10, at the Luck High School.

Patti Mattson introduced representatives from Amery Regional Medical Center/Luck Medical Clinic, Larsen Auto Centers and St. Croix Valley Hardwoods who are this year’s corporate co-sponsors Schary Shouse, Community Relations ACS Wisconsin Midwest Division, presented an overview of last year’s run/walk that exceeded its goal of $30,500 by bringing in $30,946.38. This year’s goal is $32,570. The “tide has turned” our battle against cancer. The number of deaths have fallen two years in a row. Research, new tools and rapidly changing technology have contributed to this. Prevention (change unhealthy habits, avoid stress, exercise, get active, quit smoking) is also a major key, along with early detection (annual checkups, mammograms starting at age 40, self breast exam, colonoscopies starting at age 50).

Dale and Janise Skow are chosen to be honorary chairs for the Luck Finish Line Run/Walk this year.

Both are survivors of cancer. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Sponsors were present at the Luck Finish Line Run/Walk Kickoff held at Café Wren on March 14, to hand out checks for this Luck area event. Pictured (L to R): Representing St. Croix Valley Hardwoods are Jean Greski and Sandy Jones, representing Amery Regional Medical Center/Luck Medical Clinic is LaRayne Ayd, representing Larsen Auto Centers is Schary Shouse and receiving the checks on behalf of the Luck America Cancer Society committee is Patti Mattson.

Dale and Janice Skow were introduced as this year’s honorary chairpersons. Dale is a colon cancer survivor, while Janise is a breast cancer survivor. They have participated in the Run/Walk Finish Line for 12 of the 13 years it has been held.

Jaime Anderson explained the pledge sheet/registration form. Preregistration is $5 or $10 if registered the day of the event. It is to be sent to her at 1512 Lake Ave., Luck WI 54853 or can be dropped off at Rural American Bank in Luck. Additional pledge/registration forms are available at Wayne’s Foods Plus.

Anderson also spoke about Tribute Flags. For a $10 minimum donation, flags in memory of or in honor of will line the beginning of the run/walk route. You can send donations to Marcia Anderson at 1512 Lake Ave., Luck, WI 54853. The names on them will be recognized at the opening ceremony.

Cheryl Langness told about Foot A Buck feet that will be available to purchase for $1 at local businesses. They then will be displayed there. Last year, this project brought in over $800.

Door prizes were donated by Wilkin’s Resort, Flowers Forever, Nails By Cathi/Edina Realty, Hog Wild and Margie Nelson.

Ideas for fundraising were mentioned. Suggestions were garage sales, car washes and baking.

Margie Nelson raised $1,700 last year by baking cinnamon rolls. Orders can be placed now at the Luck Rural American Bank. A minimum $10 donation is asked for one dozen rolls. She plans to do this yearround.

For further information or any questions, call Patti Mattson at 715-472-2654. – submitted

Community is invited to ACS Run/Walk kickoff to help fight cancer FREDERIC – The Frederic community is asked to participate in the American Cancer Society Run/Walk.

The kickoff for this year’s run/walk is Friday, March 28, at 7 a.m. upstairs at Hacker’s Lanes. Gene and Eunice Early are the honorary chairs this year. The kickoff provides registration forms and general information about the run/walk. All team captains and interested persons are encouraged to attend.

The Finish Line is a 2, 3 or 5-mile walk following a designated course through town streets. Cancer survivors, families, friends and others affected by cancer celebrate life while raising funds to find a cure and help cancer patients. This year’s event is Saturday, May 10,

beginning with registration at 8 a.m. at the Birch Street Elementary School in Frederic. This is the second year for this site.

Teams, as well as individuals, are encouraged to join in the day’s festivities to help raise funds for cancer.

Event chair Elvira Schmidt states, “This event is about getting some physical exercise while doing something positive to help fund cancer research, education, advocacy and service.”

Registration forms will be available at the Bremer and U.S. Banks and the Medicine Shoppe. Quilt raffle tickets will also be for sale at the banks and from committee members. Athletic shoes will be available for $1 in

area businesses.

For more information on how you can participate in this year’s American Cancer Society Run/Walk event, please contact Elvira Schmidt at 715-653-2684 or Schary Shouse at 715-259-4242.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. - submitted

Family care program offers choice and hope NORTHWEST WISCONSIN — It is a basic right most Americans take for granted — to choose how and where they want to live. That freedom of choice can be stolen away in the blink of an eye by fate, or slowly slip away with the onset of old age.

Four people who have a unique personal perspective on the problem are the consumer representatives on the Family Care Development Council, part of the team creating a new regional long-term care organization to help frail elderly and disabled adults remain at home.

Expected to begin in January 2009, the managed care organization will reflect Family Care principles, an important one being choice.

“Because someone is born with a particular disability, or by accident or aging develops a disability, they should not be denied the right other Americans have to choose to live their life as they like,” said Jeff Kieffer, an FCDC member and second chair on the council. Kieffer is a Price County resident whose 26-year-old daughter has developmental disabilities, but who lives on her own with support from her parents, county services and the Development Center in Phillips. “With no other family in the area, it is important that she is provided for after my wife and I are gone. My greatest hope is that Family Care will become all that it is planned to be.”

Family Care could become a model for other states struggling to provide health care services and contain rising costs. Presently, many people who could remain in their homes with some level of support, have no choice but to go to costly nursing homes.

Mark Novotny, also a FCDC member from Price County, uses a wheelchair and has been receiving longterm care since 1992. “Due to the rural area we live in, choices are slim, if any at all. I did my rehab in Chicago, and people there with my level of disability did not have the option of living independently at home and had to go to nursing homes.”

The strategic aim of the new Family Care organization will be to better coordinate and integrate care over an 11-county area, reduce costs, eliminate waiting lists, and develop and manage a network of providers that will ultimately offer more choice.

“My daughter will graduate from high school in June, and through her 21 years, we have traveled thousands of miles to obtain services for her,” said Terri Stone, a Grantsburg resident for 30 years and FCDC member whose daughter has autism. “From dental and health care in the Twin Cities, to speech language services at UW in River Falls, to a school 30 miles away, her life has been spent basically on the road. We have been on the county waiting list for years. Although she is covered under our private insurance and able to access services, I think of those not as fortunate, and I fear when she turns 21 and is no longer eligible under our insurance.”

For Sue Zieke, an FCDC member and Spooner resident, life was forever changed the morning she woke eight years ago with numbness in her hand that gradually spread to her waist. Just 10 days later she was diagnosed with a spinal cord injury similar to multiple sclerosis. An active 47-year-old who ran a successful

business for 18 years, Zieke suddenly faced constant pain and what she called the “narrowing” of her life.

“I always thought I could work and take care of myself,” Zieke said. “But life as you know it is over.”

Zieke is able to remain in her home of 22 years by receiving services, such as lawn mowing, housekeeping, rides to appointments, massage and acupuncture. “I have good services and I know I’m lucky when so many are on waiting lists. I also feel that the choice and the self-directed philosophy that Family Care will offer is important. You feel more like a human being when you can have some control over your own life after so much has been taken away,” she said.

“People receiving these services just need help accessing life,” explained Stone. “They don’t want to be seen as dependent, but rather independent, and most want to be contributing members of their communities.

Let’s face it. We are all going to be old someday and may need long-term care services. Our hope is to make Family Care in Northwest Wisconsin a reality.”

The 11 counties in the new Family Care organization are Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Price, Polk, Rusk, Sawyer and Washburn. Area residents are invited to participate in or listen to a phone call-in, question-and-answer meeting on Friday, April 4, at 2 p.m. Call toll-free 1-800-617-4268 and enter pin code 20942806 to join the meeting. More information can be found at www.nwfamilycare.com. — from Family Care Development Council

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Divorce and suicide support groups are available

by Brenda Sommerfeld TRADE LAKE – Pastor Andy McDaniel came from North Carolina in August of 2007 to become the pastor for the Trade Lake Baptist Church. He now, with help, has started up support groups for different people in need.

The support groups are for divorce recovery and suicide. They were started up about three months ago and will continue indefinitely.

The divorce recovery group is for people who have been through a divorce, are in the process of a divorce, or are contemplating divorce. This group is held every other Monday at the Trade Lake Baptist Church. The next meeting is Monday, March 24, and anyone is welcome.

“I was amazed on how many people came out on our very first one,” McDaniel said. “I think we had eight or 10 people.”

The suicide group is intended for people who have lost children, a spouse or

someone very close to them to suicide.

This group meets the first Thursday of every month. The next meeting will be at the Trade Lake Baptist Church on Thursday, April 3.

Both of these support groups are taught from a first-person perspective from people who have been through these situations. The teachers understand the implications people have from them.

“It’s an opportunity for people to get it off their chest and be able to talk to someone who knows how they feel versus someone just teaching them out of a book,” McDaniel described.

“Although it is taught from a biblical perspective as far as some healing things, it’s not a bible study,” Pastor McDaniel explained. “It’s about healing. It’s about finding hope again. It’s about starting over.”

McDaniel said that the people who have come so far have found help in the group.

Lisa Roberts WITC – Rice Lake student ambassador RICE LAKE – Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College-Rice Lake has chosen Lisa Roberts as their student ambassador for 2008. Roberts is from Luck, and as student ambassador will represent the Rice Lake campus at various events throughout the district and will also be the student speaker at graduation in May. Roberts will be graduating in May with an associate degree in accounting along with certifications for computerized accounting and business graphics.

She was nominated because of her demonstrated integrity, respect and leadership. Roberts is treasurer for WITC’s Business Professional of America Club, as well as a Student Senate representative. She has competed and won awards in state and national BPA competitions in each of the last two years.

Roberts is a graduate of Unity High School in Balsam Lake and has been active for years in St. Croix Valley Council Girl Scouts, and as a youth leader and

Lisa Roberts treasurer for Bone Lake Lutheran Church in Luck. - submitted

SCRMC Auxiliary has guided tour

ST. CROIX FALLS - On March 11, members of the SCRMC Auxiliary gathered for a tour of the new surgical wing and lobby guided by Lenny Libis. There were many questions asked by this diverse group of women, and Libis was very receptive to answering any and all questions. To have this little “sneak peek” before the project is complete made for a very interesting tour.

The Learning Resource Center at SCRMC was transformed by the members from a boardroom to a party room where the auxiliary members met after the tour for their annual monthly luncheon meeting, and installation of new officers.

Their auxiliary is being led again this year by Carolyn Ward-president, Renee’ Ryan-vice president, Miriam Lagus-cor-

poration secretary and Kathy Luckentreasurer. The gift shop will be led by Mary Werran-president, Renee’ Ryanvice president, Audrey Johnson-secretary and Bev Casperson-treasurer.

This is an exciting year for SCRMC with the wonderful new addition, and an exciting year for the auxiliary, gift shop and in-house volunteer programs as they move forward with merging the three groups under one umbrella; changing their name and seeking new opportunities to continue our mission of caring and sharing. There is much to be done, and if you would be interested in being a part of this very important organization, please contact Kathy at 483-1061. - submitted

“It’s changed their lives,” McDaniel said.

McDaniel started the divorce recovery group and is the main teacher due to his own personal burden after going through a divorce himself.

“A lot of people feel like they’ve been kind of cast out and don’t have anywhere to go or anything to do because they have this stigma ‘I’ve been divorced,’” he said. “I was seeing so many people that were hurt by that, and they don’t have anywhere to turn because they think people look at them and treat them differently. I just want to show them, they can get through this and go on.”

There was a lady that suggested the suicide support group to McDaniel. She lost her husband to suicide and is a main teacher of this group. She had told McDaniel that she believes there are many people around this area that are dealing with this situation and have no one to talk to.

“There is a much greater need for that than we had anticipated because that stuff is going on everywhere,” Pastor McDaniel explained. “We want to let people know that there is somewhere for them to go.”

Until this group was started, the closest place for people to go and talk with others going about suicide was in Eau Claire and divorce on the south side of Amery.

“If you can talk to somebody that is going through the exact same thing that you are then you’re more likely to open up,” McDaniel said. “That is the approach we have taken and it’s done very well.”

If anyone is interested in finding out more about these groups, you may go on the church Web site www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org or call McDaniel at 715327-8402.

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Otto Bremer Foundation gives $32.1 million in grants in 2007 ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Otto Bremer Foundation gave $32.1 million in charitable grants in 2007 to Bremer Bank communities in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. This marks the largest amount given since the foundation was established in 1944. The foundation receives dividends from earnings generated by Bremer Banks and then distributes those funds back to the communities in the form of charitable grants.

The foundation gave approximately $21.7 million in grants to communities in Minnesota, $4.9 million in North Dakota, $2.1 million in Wisconsin, $65,000 in Montana and $130,600 in other locations.

“We are honored to be able to give back a record amount in grants to many nonprofit organizations in our Bremer Bank communities,” said Charlotte Johnson, a trustee for the Otto Bremer Foundation. “It is our vision to build healthy communities by continuing to be a resource to nonprofit organizations through grants and other initiatives.

We want to thank the employees of Bremer Banks for their hard work and to the bank’s many valued clients for selecting Bremer Bank as a partner.”

The Otto Bremer Foundation is currently ranked sixth in size and assets by the Minnesota Council on Foundations. Its mission is to assist people in achieving full economic, civic and social participation, in and for the benefit of their communities. - submitted

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

St. Paddy’s Day in Webb Lake

This leprechaun was the very start of the parade. Fire trucks and many other floats followed him during the St. Patrick’s Day parade held in Webb Lake on Saturday, March 15.

Who had more fun, animal or man? This St. Bernard carried around a keg while being a spectator.

Bagpipes were another instrument played by parade participants.

A tractor that held a sign saying “American Legion supports the food shelf” pulled this American Legion float. It pulled behind a solider statue with many American flags in support of the troops.

Photos by Connie Magnuson & Brenda Sommerfeld This little girl showed her Irish side, wearing green from head to foot as she collected candy during the parade.

This lady was one of many riders in the This woman wore a crown and sat parade. She, like many others, wore a heavy on the top of a pickup that was coat, boots and gloves to stay warm in the pulling a float while she smiled and These children played tunes on their Kenna and the Shamrocks float. frigid weather. waved to everyone.

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St. Patrick's Day parade held in Siren

The Siren High School band wore the appropriate color for the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Siren on Saturday, March 15.

Diane O’Richison is dressed appropriately for the Siren St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday, March 15.

Chelsea Nelson sparkled during the Siren St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday, March 15.

Photos by Sherill Summer

Green hair was the St. Patrick’s Day style of choice for the Highstrom boys, (L to R) Derek Highstrom, Bryce Highstrom and Dolan Highstrom.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Four-year-old kindergarten ends its first year Roundup for next year scheduled for March 27 and 28

by Lori Ward-Macomber WEBSTER - The Webster School District is nearing completion of its first year of Tiny Tigers (4-year-old kindergarten). The program was developed to help prepare 4-year-olds for a lifelong learning journey. The main priority is basic school readiness and building positive relationships between home and school.

Tiny Tiger Roundup for next year will be held March 27 and 28. If your child will be 4 by Sept. 1, please contact the school at 715-866-8211 to schedule a time to come in. They look forward to meeting a new group of Tiny Tigers.

You have often heard it said that a child’s mind is like a sponge, and that they observe and absorb so much during the early years. They have found this to be true with their first-year class.

The children have learned their letters through the use of a fun and child-friendly program called Letter Land. In this curriculum, each letter is a character, and each character has a fun and catchy song to help the children learn the letter sounds. The children are excited to meet a new letter each week.

The children have learned numbers and number concepts up to 10. They know colors and basic shapes.

They have been introduced to concept words, such as more/less and inside/outside.

In Tiny Tigers, the children have spent the year learning to write their names, follow directions, sit and listen to complete stories, play nicely with classmates by sharing and taking turns, listen to their teacher and friends and follow the school rules.

Families have had numerous opportunities each month to stay involved in their child’s learning and opportunities to communicate with their child’s teacher.

The family and teacher communicate back and forth each day by the use of a notebook.

A Family Library Night where whole families come to school to read together and play together is held once a month. The teacher reads stories and provides activities (art projects/puzzles/games) for families to do together. Each family is allowed to check out books from the library to take home.

Once a month they have a Special Friend Day where each child has someone special come to school to join them in an activity. The activities have included an ABC hunt, special lunches and meals and a field trip to the Twin Cities to see the “Finding Nemo Ice Show.”

The turnout and participation on these days has been 95 percent or more.

Another fun component of the program is a Play Day. One Friday a month, a parent (Our Special Friend) is invited to come to school with their child to “play” in the classroom. Some Fridays there is structured, teacher-led play. On other days, the play is open ended,

Game Night. The school provided pizza for the families and some fun family games. The children and families really enjoyed the opportunity to get together and visit with classmates and friends. They will be holding one or two more activities yet this year, one being a Welcome to Kindergarten Picnic.

The Tiny Tigers program runs Monday through Thursday with two classes of children, a morning and afternoon group. Lori Ward-Macomber is the teacher, and she has been with the Webster School District for nine years. She previously taught 5-year-old kindergarten, and is aware of the ways in which children learn.

Emma Doriott shows the container of butter she made in one of her Tiny Tiger (4-year-old kindergarten) classes at Webster Elementary School.

Owen Washburn (L) and Serena Peck were developing their skill at color mixing by using finger paints. – Photos submitted

Tiny Tiger Isabella Moen and her family are shown during Pizza and Game Night at Webster Elementary School. The school provides the pizza, and Isabella’s teacher, Mrs. Ward, sets out games for the families to play. and the children are free to explore the classroom with their parent.

One evening this year they met to have a Pizza and

Big brother Brandon read to Cameron Chapman during one of the Tiny Tiger classes at Webster Elementary School.

Nelson kindergarteners learn bread making

Nelson Primary School kindergarteners had fun mixing up bread dough last week with help from parent volunteer Deb Johnson. Johnson brought in the ingredients and utensils needed for the bread-making lesson then showed the students how to grind wheat for flour and make the dough.

Mrs. Teigen’s kindergarten class and parent volunteer Deb Johnson proudly showed off their bread dough. Front row: Connor DeTienne, Jacob Phillips, Austin Anderson, Jillian Seeger, Ciaara Lane, Hanne Johnson, Alex Ringler and Rachael Ress. Back row: Savanna Trittelwitz, Charlie Huehn, Mikayla Jensen, Cindy Olson, Thor Johnson, Emma Wistrom and Sheldon Stedman.

Eating fresh-baked bread you make yourself tastes so good. Kindergarteners Charlie Huehn and Rachael Ress agree as they take a bite from the loaves they made. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

Ice bowling scores big for Grantsburg Hockey Association

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG – When 32 teams hit the ice at the Grantsburg Arena last Friday night, they found it transformed from hockey rink to bowling alley.

Hockey sticks were stacked away and bowling balls were rolled out. Pins replaced pucks. Boots and street shoes slid across the ice instead of skates.

There was plenty of slip-sliding-away as bowlers endeavored to knock down pins at the end the icy lanes. There was plenty of laughter, too, as the Grantsburg Hockey Associations First-Annual Ice Bowling fundraiser got under way. For spectators just seeing people trying to stay upright on the ice was fun to watch.

“Everyone was having a good time,” said ice bowling organizer, Rick Quimby.

Quimby said he made a point of walking around to ask people how they liked ice bowling, since it was something new the hockey association decided to try this year. Quimby organized the ice bowling after a conversation with a friend from Chippewa Falls. “We both have kids in hockey programs and are involved in hockey associations. We started talking about ideas for fundraisers and my friend mentioned they had done ice bowling.” Quimby liked the idea and decided to organize the event.

The event not only proved successful for its entertainment value, but was also very successful financially. “We will probably see between $6,000 to $8,000 raised from this event,” said a very pleased Quimby. “Friday night was our corporate night and we had 32 four-person teams each paying a $150 registration fee. And we also have the silent auction, raffle and concession stand revenues.”

Quimby said money from the fundraiser will go to the hockey association’s arena improvements with the number one priority being the completion of the locker rooms.

“We didn’t know how it would go, being our first year so we scaled it back somewhat. And we wanted to make sure we had enough people to run the event,” Quimby explained, saying four more lanes will be added for next year’s event.

“There will be bigger cash prizes next year, too. We are going to build this event each year,” promised Quimby.

“Saturday night’s ice bowling was billed as invitational with mainly adults bowling. But after seeing how much fun the young kids of cleanup workers had bowling Sunday afternoon, we definitely will be promoting Saturday night as a big family event,” said Quimby. A band and fish fry are also being talked about for next year. And Quimby says inviting other towns to participate in event will also be encouraged. “We had three teams from Pine City here this year.

We’d like to see all the neighboring towns get involved,” added Quimby.

This year’s winning teams were Denny’s Downtown Lanes and Lee’s Pro

Steve Christian gets ready to take his turn on the ice as his Burnett Dairy teammates look on. Grantsburg School team member Sherry Ryan steps carefully as she goes to retrieve her bowling ball.

Shop, tying for first-place honors, and McNally’s Team No. 2 in second place.

The first-place teams each won four overnight stays to Grand Casino Hinckley and $50 cash, and the second-place team won four overnight stays at Grand Casino and $25 cash.

Quimby also wanted to acknowledge and thank all the volunteers for their many hours of work, and all businesses who donated goods, services or sponsored a team. “Without them we couldn’t have such a successful community event.”

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Randy Carey leans down to see how many pins fell down. Carey, trying himself to avoid falling down on the icy alley, was part of the Video Vision team, one of 32 corporate teams participating in the Grantsburg Hockey Associations First-Annual Ice Bowling Fundraiser last Saturday night at the Grantsburg Arena.

Bowling for the Grantsburg School team, Sherry Ryan looks determined to knock down all the pins as she heads down one of the icy lanes.

Craig St. Sauver, wearing his best and biggest cowboy hat, smiled as he aims for a strike.

Grantsburg Hockey Association member Duke Tucker takes his turn as pin setter during the ice bowling fundraiser last weekend at the Grantsburg Hockey Arena.

Heidi Carey, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in true green fashion, lets out a big cheer as she gets a strike. Carey’s Video Vision team was one of several corporate teams whose festive attire added to the fun at the Grantsburg Hockey Association’s ice bowling fundraiser last Saturday night.

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Pinewood Derby held in Luck Saturday, March 15, the Cub Scout Pinewood Derby was held in Luck.

Scouts who participated in the Luck Pinewood Derby were front row (L to R): Cashton Ellefson, Derek Hendrickson, Brandon Hostrup, Tyler Welch, Beau Brenizer, Matt Anderson and Jonathan Skow. Middle row: Jared Hunter, Lance Lindvall, Brady Lunsmann, Payton Ellefson, Jacob Aguado, Nick Aguado, Seth Holm and Tanner Van Meter. Back row: Jordan Hendrickson, Derek Hutton, Sean Haasnoot, Devyn Ellefson, Luke Woltz, Aage Rovney, Nick Mattson and Nick Demydowich.

Scout Speed (L to R): Luke Woltz, first place; Tyler Welch, second place; Aage Rovney, third place; Devyn Ellefson, fourth place and Nick Mattson, fifthplace.

Scout Design (L to R): Derek Hendrickson, first place; Jordan Hendrickson, second place; Nick Demydowich, third place; Beau Brenizer, fourth place; Tyler Welch, fifth-place. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Photos submitted

Open class design and speed winners (L to R): Charlie Welch, first-place speed, second-place design; Gabe Hendrickson, second-place speed, thirdplace design; and Joe Hutton, third-place speed, first-place design.

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St. Croix Falls High School Theater Department presents “Alice in Wonderland” ST. CROIX FALLS - If the long winter has you feeling blue, escape into the fantasy world and dazzling characters of Lewis Carroll’s childhood favorite “Alice in Wonderland,” presented by the St. Croix Falls High School Theater Department. Don’t miss this chance to see the talented cast and crew bring alive the memorable characters that fascinated us as children — Alice, the White Rabbit, the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and so many other peculiar favorites.

The production is lead by Director Peggy Ryan, assistant and technical director Shawn Gudmunsen, and production manager Sharlene Prinsen.

Paige Marek plays the lead role of Alice, a sweet little girl who gets bored as her sister reads to her on a riverbank one morning. Suddenly, she sees White Rabbit, played by Francis Fossum and, with typical childlike wonder, she decides to follow him down a rabbit

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver to give lecture

Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver will give the Francis X. Shea Memorial Lecture at 7 p.m. Monday, March 31, in the Mitchell Auditorium on The College of St. Scholastica Campus, Duluth, Minn. The lecture, comprised of poetry reading and commentary, is free and open to the public. Seating is limited; doors will open at 6 p.m. A book signing will be held after the presentation and refreshments will be served. “In her wonderful poems about nature and everyday life, Mary Oliver reminds us that God is not only in us but around us,” said Dr. William Campbell, assistant professor of theology and religious studies at St. Scholastica, and chair of the Shea Lectureship Committee. The lecture is sponsored by the F.X. Shea Endowment Fund, the Benedictine Liberal Arts Education Program, the Rose Warner Professorship, the English Department, the Interreligious Forum, the Women and Gender Studies Program, the Dignitas Program, the Alworth Center for the Study of Peace and Justice and the Theology and Religious Studies Department. For more information, call Sharon LaTour at 218-7235985. - Photo submitted

hole and through an underground passage. Her adventures will take you on a journey of laughter and outrageous fantasy as she desperately tries to find her way back home. Along the way, she meets an array of strange characters, including the Cheshire Cat played

by Jared Martin, the Caterpillar played by Mirielle Francis, the Frog Footman played by Travis Pomeroy, the Duchess played by Michelle Peterson, the Cook played by Gabby Nuckles, the Queen of Hearts played

by Sarah Perszyk, and the King played by Dan Roach.

Rounding out the cast are David Lund as the Knave and Humpty Dumpty, Steve Tucker as the Mad Hatter, Katie Burns-Penn as the March Hare, Ali Greenlee as the Dormouse, Bridgette Bayle as Tweedledee, Meghan Smith as Tweedledum, Zack Nelson as the Mock Turtle, Heather Gilbert as the Gryphon, Ashley Bollig as Flower and Lady, Kristina Flandrena as Rose, Taylor

Stowell as Flower and Card Soldier, Emma Ward as Flower, Kierlyn Ward as Flower, and Kate Wright as the Two of Clubs, Flower, and Lady. Behind the scenes, the cast is supported by a fantastic tech crew comprised of Allastant Nuckles, Shelly Wood, Tyler Harrison, Trygve Chinander, Sharanda Whittaker, Brittany Bess, Meg Wilmar, Rufino Rodriguez and Amanda Larson, who also serves as assistant director.

The show will be performed at the new St. Croix Falls Elementary Gymnatorium on Friday, April 11, at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 12, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, April 13, at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $4 for students and senior citizens and $5 for adults. Tickets for children 6 and under are free for all shows. Additionally, Friday night is dollar night for all students. You may reserve tickets by calling 483-2507 ext. 232. - from SCFHS

“The Music Man” to be performed March 27 - 29

The Siren School and community musical production this year is “The Music Man.” The cast and pit band have been rehearsing since the end of January in preparation for the performances. The shows will run on March 27-29 at 7 p.m. and March 30 at 2 p.m. Ticket price is $5. Jason Wilhelm, Jim Muus, Rick Kosloski, Kent Lindquist make up the members of the “school board.” You will hear their wonderful vocals throughout the “Music Man.” – Photo submitted

Frederic elementary spring program next Thursday FREDERIC – The Frederic Elementary students in grades one, two and three are blasting back to the 1950s for their spring program this year! Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 27, at 7 p.m. for this entertaining show. All-time favorite songs and dances from the ‘50s will be performed and there will be special appearances by Chubby Checker and Elvis!

This performance is under the director of Pat Anderson and Troy Wink. There is no charge and everyone is welcome to attend. - submitted

Easter concert set OSCEOLA–Easter concert being presented at the ARC in Osceola on March 21, 22 and 23. All concerts are at 7 p.m. and will be followed by a time of refreshments and fellowship.

The concert is a celebration of our Lord Jesus. A freewill donation will be taken. “He’s Alive” will be presented by the St. Croix Valley Community Choir.

–submitted

www.the-leader.net

Frederic Lioness Club entertains

Last Thursday, the residents of Sunrise Apartments enjoyed playing bingo, and the winners were given cash. Afterwards punch and cookies were served by the Fredreic Lioness Club. To make the event more festive, each member was asked to wear their special Easter Bonnet. Back row (L to R): Nancy Morten, Fran Kurkowski, Roxi White, Maria Taylor, Phyllis Wilder and Carol Thompson. Front row (L to R): Phyllis Meyer, LaVonne Boyer, Joan Paar as president and June Fossum. – Photo submitted

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Jump Rope for Heart held at Luck

LUCK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; On March 5 and 6, 59 students, grades three - six, completed their annual Jump Rope for Heart event in the Luck School District gymnasium. They raised a total of $4,407.29 to aid in research on heart disease.

The following is a list of the participants and the prizes they earned: Dylan Skow and Taylor Juleen raised $5-15 and earned a water bottle. Morgan Pfaff, Erin Frank, Cole Webb, Kerrigan Ekholm, Noah Mortel, Parker Steen, Jordan Jones, Rose Rambo, Hailey Foeller, Brittany Sanford and Jenni Holdt raised $1529 and earned a jump rope, and a water bottle. Steven Holdt, Emma Pedersen, Brittany Donald, Katie Pfaff, Jes Pedersen and Amanda Richey raised $30-49 and earned magic magnets, a jump rope and a water bottle. Delaney Dau, Jacob Aguado, Kaitlyn Nielsen, Rachel Sanford, Adrian Spores, Christopher Pouliot, Jordan Erickson, Julia Campion, Maddie Emerson, Maddie Joy, Shyyanne Mattson, Sean Haasnoot, Farah Welch, Bruce Campion, Kalley Lunsmann, Jamie Preiner, Angela Gore and Trevor Dexter raised $50-74 and earned a T-shirt, magic magnets, a jump rope, and a water bottle. Paige Runnels, Autumn Hermansen, Taylor Hanson, Erin Engstrand, Alaura Lemieux, Luke Woltz, Larissa Succo, Logan Hibbs, Alex Grant and Jeffrey Hacken raised $75-124 and earned a Mini Tunes radio, a T-shirt, magic magnets, a jump rope and a water bottle. Graham Hershfield, Sarah Schaar, Anna Christensen, Alicia Sund, Sarah Huro, Olivia Zappa and Olivia Nielsen raised $125-199 and earned a Rocket Blaster, a Mini Tunes radio, a T-shirt, magic magnets, a jump rope and a water bottle. Adrianna Backes and Krystal Zuniga raised $200-299 and earned Fun Slides, a Rocket Blaster, a Mini Tunes radio, a T-shirt, magic magnets, a jump rope, and a water bottle. Whitney Sorensen and Jade Schallenberger raised $300-499 and earned a radio cooler, Fun Slides, a Rocket Blaster, a Mini Tunes radio, a T-shirt, magic magnets, a jump rope and a water bottle.

Gratitude is extended to everyone that made Jump Rope for Heart a success in Luck. - from Luck Schools

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St. Croix Falls DECA students win at State Career Development Conference ST. CROIX FALLS–Seven St. Croix Falls DECA students recently competed at the State Career Development Conference in Lake Geneva. DECA is a cocurricular, student-centered organization specifically designed to provide activities that will motivate students to learn marketing competencies that will prepare them to become skilled, employable workers in marketing, management and entrepreneurship, and marketing related careers.

DECA competitive events are learning activities designed to evaluate students development of essential competencies needed for entry and/or advancement in the field of marketing, management or entrepreneurship.

At the state level, over 2,400 students choose an occupational series in which to apply the marketing skills that they have acquired through school and work. The students are required to take a 100-question economics exam, a 100-question comprehensive marketing exam,

St. Croix Falls DECA students are pictured at the State Career Development Conference in Lake Geneva.

– Photo submitted and two role plays based on the occupation series. Jake Yunker, senior, competed in the automotive services management level. Chase Hamilton, senior, competed in food marketing. Emily Scheuermann, sophomore, competed in hotel and lodging. Carissa Libbenga, junior, took first place in her promotions role play based on restaurant and food service management. Austin Whittenberger, sophomore, took first place in his economics role play in the area of food marketing. Erinn Bloomer, senior, placed in the top 10 in the state in the area of marketing management. Also, Kate Wright, junior, took first place in both of her role plays and the

comprehensive marketing exam, plus placed in the top 10 in the state in the area of apparel and accessories.

Students are also given the choice of participating in a written project at this level. Carissa Libbenga wrote a 30-page business plan detailing her dream of one day opening her own business. In addition to the written plan, Libbenga had to present her idea to members of the Wisconsin Bankers Association. Libbenga received a medal for her project.

The students would like to thank their DECA advisor, Mrs. Crowley, for her support and guidance in

helping them attain this achievement, and student Erin O’Brien for her moral support and help at the state conference in the role of service associate. Also, they would like to thank Bob Whittenberger, Dick Hartung and Zack Whittenberberger for giving their time and expertise to serve as judges at the state level. – submitted

Check out the Leader’s new e-edition @ www.the-leader.net

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Siren prekindergarten and kindergarten registration set SIREN – Siren Elementary School will hold prekindergarten and kindergarten registration/screening/orientation of Friday, April 11.

The kindergarten registration and screening is intended for children who will enter kindergarten in the fall of 2008.

Children eligible for kindergarten placement must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2008. For a registration/screening/orientation appointment time,

please call 715-349-2278 prior to April 10.

Prekindergarten registration is for children who will be 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2008. Please call 715-349-2278 for a registration/screening/ orientation appointment time.

The Wisconsin immunization law requires a booster dose of measles-mumpsrubella vaccine, an additional polio vaccine and two doses of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine for children ages 4-

6 years previous to entering kindergarten. Immunization records and a copy of the birth certificate should be brought to your appointment. If parents have questions about immunization, contact your family physician or county health office.

If your child has attended the prekindergarten program or early childhood at Siren School, he/she will not need to be screened for kindergarten.

He/she will need only to be registered for kindergarten. If your child has not attended either program here at Siren, please let us know when you call for your appointed time. We will need to screen your child during that time.

If you have a question regarding screening or any educational concerns about your child, please contact the Siren Elementary School at 715-349-2278. – submitted

"It's Comedy! It's Tragedy! It's Life with Kids!" presented at St. Croix Falls Elementary ST. CROIX FALLS – Friends of the Elementary Saints, parent site council of the St. Croix Falls School District, will sponsor a Positive Parenting Presentation Friday, March 28, at 6:30 p.m. in the St. Croix Falls Elementary School gymatorium.

All are welcome to enjoy the insightful humor of certified Positive Discipline Associate Debi Sementelli. Motivating

teachers and parents for the past 15 years, Sementelli uses stories, songs and skits to both inform and amuse parents about options to effectively handling the daily challenges of life with kids.

Desserts and coffee will be served from 6:30-7 p.m. in the lobby with presentation following at 7 p.m.

“I think it does a lot of good to laugh at what we deal with day in and day out.

SCF Homecoming Queen selected as finalist ST. CROIX FALLS–Kelsey DouglassWhite, daughter of Tom and Denise Douglass-White of St. Croix Falls, has been selected finalist for Wisconsin’s 28th-Annual Homecoming Queen Selection to be held April 19-20, at the Holiday Inn Select Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport in Bloomington, Minn.

Kelsey Douglass-White is the St. Croix Falls High School Homecoming Queen.

Wisconsin’s 2008 Homecoming Queen will receive a cash scholarship plus an expense paid trip to the National Finals to compete with queens from the other states for America’s Homecoming Queen. America’s Homecoming Queen, Inc., is a nonprofit organization promoting education, educational travel, and community service in schools in all 50 states. –submitted

This will be a great evening for parents to socialize and lighten up a little,” says organizer Diane Peer.

Child care will also be available provided by the parent group with assistance from high school students. Let your kids come in pajamas and join in the fun with a movie, popcorn and crafts while parents attend the presentation.

Please register your child in advance by

calling the elementary office at 715-4839328.

The presentation and child care is funded by Friends of Elementary Saints with support from The RiverBank and Taylors Falls Elementary School. Donations accepted at the door. - submitted

Academic news MENOMONIE – Following are local students from the area who are currently employed through the Cooperative Education Program at University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Danbury Luke McCorry, business administration, Home Security Technician/APX Alarm Security Solutions, Inc.-Provo, Utah.

St. Croix Falls kindergarten roundup ST. CROIX FALLS – St. Croix Falls School District is holding their kindergarten roundup on Friday, April 4. All children who will be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1 and plan to attend kinder-

Kelsey Douglass-White

garten for the 2008 – 09 school year are asked to attend. Please contact the elementary school office at 715-483-9823 if you have a child that will be participating. - submitted

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MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

OBITUARIES Robert Glenn Sawyer

Arthur Vernon Baker

Betty Stouffer

Robert Glenn Sawyer, 77, died March 4, 2008, at St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Bob was born in Cass Lake, Minn., to Henry and Marge Sawyer, on Aug. 27, 1930. His family moved to St. Croix Falls in 1929, when his father started working for the Northern States Power Company.

As a young man, he enjoyed his involvement in Boy Scout Troop 160. He attended and was confirmed from the United Methodist Church and graduated from St. Croix Falls High School in 1948. Bob was an avid sportsman and enjoyed racing boats. Bob also enlisted in 1950 for the U.S. Naval Reserve. He worked in Aviation Ordinance Stations in Minneapolis, Minn., and was discharged in 1962.

Bob worked at the fish hatchery in St. Croix. In 1950, he took a job at the Northern States Power Company.

There he worked in the powerhouse as his father did.

Then he transferred to Substation construction where he spent 35 years working throughout the Midwest.

Bob retired in 1985. Bob was involved in many organization over the years and had many interests. He rebuilt, restored and refurbished many cars, trucks, jet boats, tractors and more over the years. In 1979, he married Bonnie McFaggen.

Bob is survived by his wife, Bonnie; two brothers, James of Rice Lake and Hal and family from Seattle, Wash. The memorial service was held Saturday, March 8, at the United Methodist Church in St. Croix Falls.

The Edling Funeral Home, was entrusted with arrangements.

Arthur Vernon Baker, Frederic, died at his home on Friday, March 14, 2008. He was 97 years old.

Art was born March 3, 1911, in Stillwater, Minn., to Albert and Christina Baker, the third of eight children.

He moved to the town of Trade Lake with his family when he was 2 years old. Art followed in his father’s footsteps, first as a blacksmith and then owning his own welding shop in Trade Lake until 1977.

However, retirement didn’t suit him well, so he continued to do welding jobs up to the age of 91.

Art married Elida Peterson of Cushing in 1952, and became Pops to her sons, LaDon Peterson, Gary Peterson and Frank Baker. Elida passed away in May of 1984.

In 1993, Art was united in marriage to Ferne (Dahle) Wies. They moved from Trade Lake to the Trade River area in 1986 and then to their present home at Golden Oaks in Frederic in 2002.

Art is survived by his wife, Ferne; children, LaDon Peterson of Osceola, Frank (Ginger) Baker of Grantsburg, Clif (Lynne) Wies of Mounds View, Minn., Jack (Dee) Wies of Centuria, Karen (Lyle) Peterson of White Bear Lake, Minn.; 21 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and friends.

Art was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Elida Baker; son, Gary and his wife, Cora; brothers, Archie, Albert, Rudy, Walter and Tony; and his sisters, Mable and Lila.

A celebration of life was held on Wednesday, March 19, at Zion Lutheran Church of Trade Lake with Pastor David Almlie officiating. Honorary casket bearers were Larry Tucker, Jack Carlson, grandsons, LaDon Peterson, Tony Peterson, D.J. Peterson, Paul Baker and David Lee. Interment was held at Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Trade Lake.

The Edling Funeral Home, Grantsburg, was entrusted with arrangements.

Betty Stouffer of Osceola died Tuesday, March 11, 2008, at the L.O. Simenstad NCU at the age of 80.

Betty was born May 17, 1927, to Harry and Josephine Joyce at Baldwin. She started life as a 3-lb. baby kept warm in a cotton-filled shoe box, on the open oven door. She remained a tiny fighter all of her life, unafraid of all of life’s challenges. She was united in marriage to Robert Stouffer on Aug. 13, 1947, and the couple had two daughters. Betty loved her family and friends, sharing the bounty of her garden, baking, knitting, crocheting, and had earned awards for these crafts. She worked for many years as a nurse at Ladd Memorial Hospital, at Bellanca, and retired from Northern Metals, to take care of Bob, whose health was declining. She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s soon afterwards, and she and Bob moved to the Simenstad NCU where they shared a room until Bob’s death 21/2 years ago.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; parents, Harry and Josephine; and brother, James.

She is survived by her daughters, Barbara Aronson and Jean (David) Rosen; granddaughters, Christa (Aaron) Sparby, Arica (Brian) Stensven and Melissa Rosen; great-grandchildren, Madison Stensven and Kyle Sparby; and many friends.

Funeral services were held Friday, March 14, at the Osceola United Methodist Church with the Rev. Alan Hagstrom, officiating. Music was provided by Norma Kretzschmar. Spring interment will be in the Warrens Cemetery at Roberts.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements.

William C. Brandt William C. Brandt of Deer Park died Tuesday March 11, at Regions Hospital at the age of 80.

Bill was born Aug. 10, 1927, at Star Prairie to Carroll and Ethel Brandt. On July 31, 1950, he married Ardella Bulkley at Hillfield Air Force Base in Clearfield, Utah.

He served in the Army and the Air Force for 20 years total. He then worked and retired from Noble’s Tire Service. Bill enjoyed camping, fishing, traveling, playing cards, country music and was an avid Packers fan.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; son, Gary; sister, Marjorie Kastens; daughter-in-law, Patricia Brandt.

He is survived by his wife, Ardella; sons, Jeff Brandt of Clear Lake, Dean Brandt of St. Croix Falls and Carl (Cyndy) Brandt of Amery; daughters, Debrah (Ron) Hornstein of Clayton and Sherri (Mike) Ash of Amery; 18 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Memorials services were held Friday, March 14, at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola with Bishop John Squire, officiating.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements.

Alice F. (Fuerstenberg) Trevino Alice F. (Fuerstenberg) Trevino, 79, died at her Kalispell, Mont., residence on Sunday, March 16, 2008.

She is survived by her children, Jim and wife Deborah Trevino, Charlotte Trevino, Mary and husband Mike Osler, Janette and husband Mike St. Peter and Dianne and husband Skip Davis.

The Buffalo Hill Funeral Home, Kalispell, Mont., was entrusted with arrangements.

Alva F. Parmenter Alva F. Parmenter of St. Croix Falls died March 2, 2008, at the age of 96.

Alva was born March 4, 1911, at Trade River, to Andrew and Britta Kallman. She attended school through the sixth grade. Alva ventured to California at an early age, where she met her loving husband of 57 years, Howard. They spent most of their married life together in California until they returned to Wisconsin to be with her family in 2001. While in St. Croix Falls, they enjoyed visiting with all Alva’s family members at their town home and later at the Comforts of Home. While at Comforts, Alva came to adore the staff where she was cared for with love. Alva loved to make things with her hands, painting, beading, papercrafts and making things from recycled products.

Alva was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; parents, Andrew and Britta Kallman; sisters, Esther Swenson, May Johnson, Bertha Swenson, Amelia Palmquist, Linnea Nelson and Margaret Burns; brothers, Arnold, Leonard, Andie, Enard, Walter, Olaf and Donald.

She is survived by her sister, Ruth (Frank) Boatman; sisters-in-law, Annie Kallman and Vivian Kallman; and four generations of nephews and nieces.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 5, at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola with the Rev. Ron Hackman, officiating. Music was provided

by Bonnie Fehrenbacher and Katie Miller. Interment was in Kahbakong Cemetery.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements.

Arlene D. Hansen Arlene D. Hansen, 86, resident of the United Pioneer Home in Luck, died Sunday, March 16.

Arlene was a longtime member of Milltown Lutheran Church and enjoyed participating in the Woman’s Circle.

She and her husband, Carl, loved family picnics, reunions, musical events, traveling and would take the grandchildren with them on many occasions. While at the nursing home she enjoyed going out with family and friends for dinner.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Reake and Edwin Johnson; husband, Carl; daughter, Carol Jean Tendrup; and brother, Alan Johnson.

She is survived by her children, Janice Elliott and husband George, Ardell Hansen and wife Barbara, Darryl Hanson and wife Jane, and Dana Hansen; 12 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two greatgreat-grandchildren; and two sisters, Myrtis Green and Annette Schultz.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 20, at 2 p.m. at Milltown Lutheran Church, Milltown, with Pastor Danny Wheeler officiating.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck, was entrusted with arrangements.

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Holy Week schedules set for local churches MILLTOWN – Plan on joining Milltown Lutheran during Holy Week for worship services as follows: Thursday, March 20 – Maundy Thursday, 7 p.m. worship; Friday, March 21 – Good Friday, 4 p.m. early service, Passion on the Main (a re-enactment on Main Street in Milltown, of Jesus’ walk to the cross), 7 p.m. Good Friday worship service; Sunday, March 23 – Easter, 6:30 a.m. Easter sunrise service, Easter breakfast, 10 a.m.

Easter worship service.

BURNETT COUNTY – The Wilderness Fellowship Ministries invites you to its annual Easter Morning Sunrise service, Sunday March 23, at 6:45 a.m. Pastor Scott Sagle from Calvary Covenant will be sharing the message.

The service will be held on Sunrise Hill overlooking Spirit Lake at The Wilderness Fellowship Farm. Breakfast will be served following the service in Johnson Hall. Come and celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ!

The service will meet out of doors, weather permitting. Dress accordingly. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held at the Fellowship Center/Johnson Hall at the Wilderness.

The Wilderness is located at 21897 Spirit Lake Road W., five miles south from Hwy. 70, between Grantsburg

and Siren, (Little Wood Lake Road/Spirit Lake Road) or one-half mile north of Birchwood Beach Resort. For more information please call 715-327-8564.

and a presentation of the stations-of-the-cross. Make plans to join with others from all over the community.

Fellowship will follow.

GRANTSBURG – Faith Lutheran and Bethany Lutheran Churches of Grantsburg will be having worship services the week of March 16-23 to recall Jesus’ final days before his crucifixion and resurrection.

All are invited and welcome to attend the Holy Week services.

Joint Maundy Thursday services will be held at 7 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church.

Joint good Friday worship will be at Faith Lutheran Church at 7 p.m.

Sunrise Easter services at 7 a.m., with breakfast following at 7:30 a.m. Easter worship with communion will be at 9:30 a.m., at Faith Lutheran Church.

Bethany Lutheran Church will be having a 7:30 a.m.

Easter morning service, followed by breakfast at 8:30 a.m. There will not be an 11 a.m. service.

WEBSTER – Our Redeemer Lutheran Church announces their holy week schedule. Maundy Thursday services will be held March 20, 7 p.m. Good Friday service will be held March 21, 7 p.m. Easter Sunrise service will be March 23, 6 a.m. and Easter services will be March 23 at 9:30 a.m.

TRADE LAKE – On Friday, March 21, there will be a community Good Friday service at 7 p.m., at Trade Lake Baptist Church. Please join us as several area churches come together to observe this special time.

This will be a time of special music, scripture reading

LUCK – Luck and St. Peter’s Lutheran Churches will hold a series of special worship services in observance of Holy Week. Maundy Thursday, March 20, Our Lord’s Last Supper will be held at 7 p.m. at Luck Lutheran.

Good Friday, March 21, Our Lord’s Sacrifice at 5 p.m. at Luck Lutheran. Easter Sunday, March 23, Our Lord’s Resurrection at 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., at Luck Lutheran and 9 a.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran. Luck Lutheran Church is located at the corner of Fifth Street South and East Foster Avenue in Luck and St. Peter’s Lutheran Church is at the corner of Hwy. 35 and CTH B, north of Luck. The churches invite all from the community to join them in worship during the sacred week.

– submitted

Quilts made at Bethesda Lutheran Church Pictured (L to R): Dawn Johnson, Edna Mae Johnson, Barbara Peterson, Angie Lundin, LaVonne Getschel and Carolyn Yost. The “Willing Workers” of Bethesda Lutheran Church make over 100 quilts each year. For nine months each year, this group of dedicated women meet three days a month to assemble, sew and tie quilts. The church pews were recently blanketed with nearly 100 quilts when members came to worship on Sunday morning. Following a blessing during worship, the quilts were then bundled and delivered to Lutheran World Relief and to local food shelves. Bethesda on Sand Lake is a member of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ, the fastest-growing Lutheran denomination in the country. You can learn more about them and their programs at www.BethesdaLutheran.ws or join them for worship every Sunday at 8:30 or 10:30 a.m.

– Photo submitted

Bethany Sunday school sings for Palm Sunday

SIREN – The children of Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren sang during Palm Sunday worship services March 16. Following the performance, the congregation read the Passion of Our Lord, according to Matthew. The story told of Jesus’ betrayal, trail and crucifixion. Next week, Bethany celebrates Easter and Holy Week, with Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services at 7 p.m. Easter Sunday services are held at 8 and 10:30 a.m. All are invited. Luther Seminary classes begin Tuesday, April 1, at Bethany. For more information, call 349-5280. – from Bethany Lutheran Church, Siren

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

CHURCH NEWS The promise of renewal

from the flames of the king’s retribution. But they were not by themselves, for in the midst of the flames, and walking by their side was One of the most remarkable stories of One like unto the Son of God. “Come forth,” God’s care for and deliverance of His chilcried the king! And when these three Hedren can be found in Daniel chapter three. brews stepped from the flames, that fire had Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, had no power upon their bodies, their hair was not made an image of enormous height, and had singed, their garments were unscathed, and set it in the plain of Dura in the province of they did not even have the smell of smoke Babylon. When the image was dedicated, a upon them. host of dignitaries from across the country Here are three important lessons to learn: Garret were invited to attend. At that dedication (1) It is never right to compromise! These Nebuchadnezzar commanded that at what Derouin three Hebrews may have reasoned that they time they heard the sound of certain musiwere in a strange land; who would know cal instruments, they were to fall down and whether they bowed before some stupid, worship the golden image that NebuchadTHE powerless, insignificant idol? God would nezzar had made. If anyone refused to bow know! And those about them would know! before the image he would receive swift and PREACHER’S (2) Courage arises from deep conviction sure punishment. Among the Hebrew capand personal regard for principle. Who was tives living in Babylon were three men, betit that said heroes die but once, but cowards ter known to us by their Chaldean names: die many deaths? Even if God Almighty Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When chose not to deliver these three men from the command was given to bow before the image, death in the fiery furnace, truth was at stake! They these three faithful Jews stood their ground and re- would not bow before that idol. They could face death fused to bow before that idol. They were brought be- with a courageous confidence that they were right in fore the king. “Bow or burn!” As if the threat were their choice. It is reported that when Polycarp was not enough, the king added ridicule to his rage: “And about to be burned at the stake that he calmly said to who is that god that shall deliver you out of my the man about to light the flame, “See how my hands hands?” are steady while yours tremble!”

These young Hebrews, captives in a foreign land, (3) Life’s fiery furnaces are unavoidable! “Yea, all threatened with certain death, could easily have es- that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecucaped a most horrible death by simply bowing before tion” (2 Tim. 3:12). Given enough time, you will face a “god” that really was no god at all. But truth was at the choice of either bowing before the “king’s image” stake; God’s honor was being threatened; God’s or maintaining loyalty to the King of kings. How you power was being questioned. No! They would not respond to the “king’s edict” will determine whether bow. “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver or not the King confesses you before the Father in us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us heaven. “Therefore everyone who confesses Me before out of thy hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, men, I will also confess him before My Father who is O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the in heaven. (Matthew 10:32) (Written by Tom Wagolden image which thou hast set up.” What courage! caster) The king was so angry that his very countenance was If readers have questions or simply wish to know changed! “Heat the furnace seven times more than nor- more about the Church of Christ, we would like to inmally heated!” The three Hebrew children were bound vite them to call 715-866-7157 or stop by the church and cast into the furnace. The fire was so hot that building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible even those soldiers who cast these men into the fur- class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 nace were themselves consumed by the heat of the a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Offire. As if to assure himself, King Nebuchadnezzar fice hours are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. peered into the flame to see what he might see. In the noon. midst of the flames walked (no longer bound, we might add), these three faithful Jews, suffering no hurt

Three faithful Jews

Daylight saving time, and the reminder to spring ahead one hour, brings the promise of renewal— flowers blooming in fields and woods and gardens, seeds and Sally Bair bulbs waiting patiently to sprout and grow. I’m amazed at the power that can transform a tiny, dormant seed in the frozen ground PERSPECTIVES into a living thing of beauty and use.

The word dormant means sleep. When Jesus brought Lazarus to life after being dead for four days, he said that Lazarus was sleeping. But Jesus meant he slept in death, not in the sense of bodily rest. Jesus then gave his disciples a lesson from nature so they might understand his own imminent death. “Most assuredly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, let him follow me.” (John 12:24) In the spiritual sense, a seed must die (lie dormant, sleep in the ground) before it can produce fruit. Life comes by death. In his lesson to the disciples, Jesus was talking about himself as the grain of wheat, which would die and, through his resurrection, produce much fruit. That’s exactly what happened.

After his resurrection many came to him—and are still coming to him—in faith, believing in life after death.

But believing requires dying to self. It requires that we hate (means to “love less” in the Greek language) our life before we can have new life. It means we must follow Jesus in loving service.

The concept of life after death is hard to understand. For some, it’s even harder to believe. But all it takes is the faith of a mustard seed. Then, even as a seed of grain will be renewed by warmth, air, and sunshine, ultimately producing much fruit, our faith will grow and produce much spiritual fruit for God’s kingdom—provided we water it and give it light from the word.

As we celebrate the renewal of seeds in the ground, every day we can celebrate Resurrection Sunday (called Easter by some, though the Easter celebration has pagan roots), because of our belief in the resurrection power of God. Lord, thank you that we can sing with certainty, “I know that my redeemer lives, what comfort this sweet sentence gives; he lives, he lives who once was dead, he lives, my ever living head.” Amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

ETERNAL

Spring Day of Renewal set for April 5 LUCK – The women of the Apple River Conference of the ELCA welcome all to their Spring Day of Renewal on Saturday, April 5, from 8:30 a.m. – noon. Please come and hear “Highlights from Israel” by a group of women from the Apple River Conference who went to Israel with Pastor Maggie Isaacson and Pastor Mary Ann Bowman. Day of Renewal will be held at Bone Lake Lutheran Church, 1101 255th Avenue, Luck. Please call Mary Nelson 715-825-2239 for reservations. The group will be collecting the following items for Malawi: Prayer bears, yarn, knitting needles, children and adult vitamins, children and adult Tylenol, aspirin and Ibuprofen. – submitted

Ladies morning retreat set FREDERIC – Please join the women of Frederic Evangelical Free Church for a very special Good Friday morning at the Frederic Evangelical Free Church.

Ladies Morning Retreat guests will study the meaning behind many symbols of this season of Lent and Easter and their significance to our celebration of Jesus, the Lamb of God. Join in for coffee and tea at 9:15 a.m. Child care is provided from birth through second grade. The Frederic Evangelical Free Church is locate at 505 Old CTH W in Frederic. Please call 327-8767 with any questions. – submitted

PEN

Scientist will present evidence for Christian faith SIREN – Former skeptic Dr. Don Bierle will be presenting the evidence that changed his mind from doubt to confidence about the Christian faith in Siren on April 20. Bierle’s revealing presentation of Faith Search will be held at the Siren High School Auditorium from 4 to 6:30 p.m. This event is being sponsored by seven area churches: Siren Assembly of God, Frederic Evangelical Free, Wood River Christian Fellowship, Trade River Evangelical Free, Grantsburg Bethany Lutheran, Grantsburg Grace Baptist and Ekdall Community.

Although he has spoken all over the U.S., Ukraine, Russia, India, and the Netherlands, wherever he goes these days, he said, someone is sure to ask him about (Dan Brown’s novel) “The Da Vinci Code.” “It amazes me how quickly people are willing to dismiss the Bible after reading what is no more than a work of fiction,” he said. “The truth is that the Bible is unique in history.

It is supported by the largest body of scientific, historical and archaeological evidence the world has ever seen. Faith Search clearly separates fact from fiction.”

Bierle, a Ph.D. biologist, said the seminar reflects the life-changing discoveries he had in his own spiritual journey. “Though I attended church in my youth, God never seemed real or personal. My success in athletics won me a college scholarship, and I soon became enthralled with academics – convinced that science held all the answers to life.”

A big turnaround in his life occurred when science colleagues challenged him to examine the evidence for the historical reliability of the New Testament writings about Jesus. “I was astounded,” said Bierle, “to learn that the New Testament manuscripts are more numerous and far more certain to be eyewitness accounts than

any other ancient writings.”

This discovery, coupled with the realization that apart from an infinite and personal God he had no purpose for his life, caused him to reconsider the claims of Jesus Christ.

“Dr. Bierle has a unique ability to draw from scientific, theological, and historical perspectives to point Dr. Don Bierle his audiences to biblical truths. His clear and concise message challenges the unbeliever, encourage those who are searching, and reaffirms the faith of the believer.” David K. Wold, pastor, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Mesa, Ariz., “Faith Search will strengthen your own faith in God, in the realiability of the Bible, and in the truth of Jesus Christ.” Dr. Billy Graham, “Simple, concise, and infinitely of value (Faith Search) will not disappoint.” The late Dr. D. James Kennedy. “I feel like I have been given the key to a huge secret and I must share that secret with all my loved ones, if not the world.” Participant. – submitted

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Victim of domestic violence must move out, seek counseling QUESTION: I have a friend who is a frequent victim of spousal abuse. How would she go about dealing with her husband’s problem?

DR. DOBSON: The principles of “Love Must be Tough” offer the best response to an abusive husband.

They begin with a recognition that behavior does not change when things are going smoothly. If change is to occur, it usually does so in a crisis situation. Thus, a crisis must be created and managed very carefully.

After moving out and making it clear that the woman has no intention of returning, the ball moves to her husband’s court. If he never responds, she never returns. If it takes a year, or five years, then so be it.

He has to want her badly enough to face his problem and to reach out to her. When (and if) her husband acknowledges that he has an abusive behavior pattern and promises to deal with it, negotiations can begin.

A plan can be agreed upon that involves intensive Christian counseling with a person of the wife’s choosing. She should not return home until the counselor concludes that she will be safe and that the husband is on the way to recovery. Gradually, they put their relationship back together.

••• QUESTION: Many of our friends have begun to home-school their children with seemingly positive results. My wife and I are considering this possibility as well but aren’t quite sure. What are your views

on this educational option? What would you do in my shoes?

DR. DOBSON: This is a subject on which my mind has changed dramatically over the years. There was a time when I subscribed wholeheartedly to the notion that early formal childhood education was vital to the child’s intellectual well-being. That Dr. James was widely believed in the ‘60s and Dobson ‘70s. I no longer accept that idea and favor keeping kids with their parents for a longer time. Dr. Raymond Moore, author of “School Can Wait” and an early leader of the homeschooling movement, had a great influence on me in this regard.

The research now validates the wisdom of keeping boys and girls in a protected environment until they have achieved a greater degree of maturity. Not only do they benefit emotionally from that delay, but they typically make better progress academically. That’s why home-schooled individuals often gain entrance to the most prestigious universities and colleges in the country. What parents can teach young children in informal one-on-one interactions surpasses what their little minds can absorb sitting among 25 age-mates in a classroom.

You asked what I would do in your shoes. If Shirley and I were raising our children again, we would home-school them at least for the first few years!

•••

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

QUESTION: Would you speak to the impact of what has been called, “the absentee father” — especially during the tougher years of adolescence?

DR. DOBSON: It is stating the obvious, I suppose, to say that fathers are desperately needed at home during the teen years. In their absence, mothers are left to handle disciplinary problems alone. This is occurring in millions of families headed by single mothers today, and heaven only knows how difficult their task has become. Not only are they doing a job that should have been shouldered by two, they must also deal with behavioral problems that fathers are more ideally suited to handle. It is generally understood that a man’s larger size, deeper voice and masculine demeanor make it easier for him to deal with defiance in the younger generation. Many mothers raise their teenagers alone and do the job with excellence, but it is a challenging assignment.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995(www.family.org). Questions and answers are excerpted from “Solid Answers” and “Bringing Up Boys,” both published by Tyndale House.

Brought to you by:

Siren Assembly of God Siren

Lakeside Community Lutheran Church celebrates 25 years

A & H – On March 23, 1983, papers of incorporation were signed recognizing Lakeside Community Lutheran Church as a member of the ELCA. On March 23, Easter Sunday, the church will be rededicated to the honor of God and the service of his people.

In 1962, an idea was born on Fish Lake to hold Saturday night worship services in the woods bordering the lake, owned by Cora and Ed Dybvig. Curt Dybvig was a Lutheran minister and conducted the first service. As the crowds came by boat and car, a large area was cleared and log benches set up. A bell was donated and mounted, ringing the call to worship every Saturday evening. That bell is now in the bell tower at Lakeside Church. As the worship service became more popular, Pastors Roger Benrud and Arvid and Kim Sundet came out from area churches to conduct services.

It became apparent that a more permanent structure was needed to meet the needs of the people, especially

those who were year-round residents. The services were moved to the town of Scott Senior Citizen Center.

A committee was formed, plans were formulated and a new church was born on CTH H near A & H on Crescent Lake.

The first pastors of Lakeside Church were Arvid and Kim Sundet, followed by interim Pastor Howard Timmerman. Pastor Ray Reinholzen became the next pastor followed by Pastor Clint Erickson and the current Pastor, Roger Pittman.

On Aug. 14, 1993, a special Saturday night service was held again in Dybvig Woods on Fish Lake commemorating the 10th anniversary of the church. This event was repeated in 2003 when the church celebrated its 20th anniversary.

The summer of 2008 will be a summer celebration for Lakeside Church beginning with the Easter rededication. On June 8, a special worship celebration with

Bishop Duane Peterson as guest will be held at 10 a.m. followed by an anniversary banquet. Subsequent Sundays will host former pastors as guests. On Saturday night, June 28, they will return to their roots for a service in Dybvig Woods. July will feature a time of recognition of all their former members and especially the core charter members, with an old-fashioned potluck picnic on July 13. As a final wrap up of the summer celebrations, a polka worship service will be held on August 2 at their Lakeside site, followed by a pie and ice-cream social.

These festivities are open to all members and visitors, and everyone is encouraged to attend. Lakeside Community Lutheran Church is a vibrant, energetic, Bibleoriented congregation committed to the service of God and the people of the surrounding communities.

Additional information may be obtained by Pastor Roger Pittman at 715-635-7791. – submitted

MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

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MARCH 19, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 31

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Cameron Zappa has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in second grade and has three sisters and two brothers. Cameron washes dishes and sweeps the floors to help out at home, and he keeps his room very neat. For fun Cameron likes to play at the park and play T-ball. Cameron also collects rocks and baseball cards.

Steak is his favorite food.

Julia Owens has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Roger and Kim Owens. Julia is a major classroom contributor and works well individually and in groups.

She is very positive about school, has good work habits and a pleasant personality. Julia works on the farm and plays volleyball and softball. She enjoys riding horse and reading.

Mariah Gravelle has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Eva and Todd Java. Mariah is a hard worker who stands up for her beliefs. She has good attendance and enjoys accounting.

Mariah works at Little Mexico on weekends. She enjoys 4-wheeling and playing video games.

She wants to become an accountant and a bull rider.

Maddie Duncan has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in third grade and the daughter of Joanie and Kevin Duncan.

Maddie is continually helping her classmates and teacher. She is also very kind and caring to everyone. Maddie favorite subjects are math, writing and art.

She also enjoys being with her friends at school. Maddie enjoys soccer and swimming.

Isabella Nelson has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Al and Jen Nelson. Isabella is friendly and sincere. She treats others with respect and is a joy to be around. Bella is a positive, likeable and helpful student who works well in groups. She is involved in Girl Scouts, band, basketball, volleyball and Junior Olympic volleyball. Bella enjoys playing games, swimming, water sports, sewing, beading and photography.

Bryce Amlee has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. She is a freshman and the daughter of Cheryl Houman and Brian Amlee. Bryce is a responsible and conscientious student. She participates in discussions and studies for her tests. Bryce has a positive attitude about learning. She helps out at the public library. Bryce enjoys playing with her dog, video games, reading, watching movies and drawing. She plans on becoming a graphic artist.

Reagan Hoverman has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in fourth grade and the son of Michelle Harris. Reagan has one sister, Sidney, in kindergarten.

Math and phy ed. are Reagan’s favorite subjects - he loves to run and play games. Reagan likes to make snow forts, play chess and board games, especially Monopoly. He also likes building ships out of Legos.

Alan Strabel has been chosen Siren Middle School's student of the week. Alan has been on the honor roll for both first and second quarters. He is very involved in 4H; showing pigs and cows at the fair. Alan loves to farm and is a big help to his dad. School is a priority for Alan and he comes here ready to learn. Alan is a joy to have in class!

Zoey Carney has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Jay and Rachel Carney. Zoey is fun to have in class and has a great attitude. She is involved in 4H, softball and volleyball. Zoey shows her horses at the SCF fair.

Her favorite subject is science because it’s cool to dissect stuff and interesting. Zoey has one dog, two rabbits and two horses.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Sequoia Bellanger has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in second grade and the son of Bruce and Shannon Bellanger.

Sequoia has a positive attitude and is always friendly and kind.

He is a hard worker in school, making sure his work is done on time and correctly. Sequoia’s favorite class is science. He enjoys fishing and riding his bike.

Courtney Rausch has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Thoeny and Sandra Gardner.

Courtney is an aspiring young writer who is motivated by the vicissitudes of history and the power of written expression. She demonstrates academic commitment. Courtney is in Girl Scouts. She enjoys reading and writing. She plans to go to college to become a teacher.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Carlie Soltau has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in kindergarten and the daughter of Brian and Wanda Soltau. Carlie’s favorite activities are doing projects and working on the computer. She is nice to all students and is a good worker who always does her best.

Angela Heinecke has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Michael and Vicki Heinecke. Angela always has a smile and is ready to help everyone. Angela is active in the River Valley Girl Scouts. Her favorite classes are gym and math. She works very hard in school. Angela enjoys drawing, sewing, Girl Scouts and shopping.

Jace Carter has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. He is a hardworking student who nevers sits around when there is work to be done in school-based industry class.

Jace has also shown his ability to produce quality work in the woods class. He has a pleasant personality and is polite and energized.

Madison Freymiller has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Jessica and Robert Smiley.

Madison is very nice to her classmates. She follows school rules and is a good role model for her peers. Madison enjoys playing with her little brother and reading.

Eric Larson has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. He is the son of Brian and Leslie Larson. Eric is very responsible, makes good use of his class time and is a positive role model for his classmates. He is a very enjoyable student to have in class. Eric enjoys watching TV, playing slot cars and spending time with his family.

Ellie Isaacson has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Joel and Linda Isaacson.

Ellie has excellent grades and attendance. She is a pleasure to have in class and consistently gives her best effort. Ellie is involved in 4-H, student council, volleyball and softball. She works part time at the Lodge. Ellie enjoys 4-wheeling and fishing. Her future plans include college.

UNITY

Congratulations students on a job well done!

Markell Ramich has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in fourth grade and the daughter of Doug and Laura Ramich. Markie shows polite manners and good behavior. She has a friendly personality with a positive attitude that always shows kindness and caring about others. Markie always puts forth her best effort, works hard and is a responsible student.

Mikayla Allison has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in fifth grade and the daughter of Nina and James Allison. Mikayla is very motivated to do well in school. She has a positive attitude and is involved in class.

Mikayla is polite and confident.

She works well with others and asks great questions.

Joshua Larsen has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. He is a freshman and the son of Jerry and Stephanie Larsen of Centuria. Joshua puts forth great effort in academics and does outstanding work in the math department. Josh enjoys shooting sports, video games and rockets. He plans to attend college after graduation.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 19, 2008

MARCH

THURSDAY/20 Amery

• Member Wii game day, 1:30 p.m., at the senior center.

Frederic • 500 Cards night, 6:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

Coming events

Frederic St. Croix Falls • Friends of the SCF Library meet at the library, noon.

• Polk County Job Fair at Legion Hall 143, 1-5 p.m, 715-485-3155.

THURS. - SUN./27-30 Siren

• “The Music Man” at the high school, Thurs.Sat. at 7 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m.

• Skywarn Training Seminar at the government center, Room 165, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY/27

FRI.-SUN./21-23

Amery

Osceola

• Men’s slow-pitch softball meeting at Uncle Bob’s, 7 p.m., 715-554-0005 or 651-428-4381.

• St. Croix Valley Christian Community Choir presents “He’s Alive” at the Association Retreat Center. All performances will be at 7 p.m., 715-294-4775 for more info.

Balsam Lake • UWEX beef distance-education program: Estrus Synchronization Protocols at the government center, 715-485-8600, 800-528-1914.

FRIDAY/21 Balsam Lake

Cushing

• VFW United Post 6856 Fish Fry, 4:30 p.m.-?

One mile north of Unity School on Hwy. 46.

• Red Cross Blood Drive at the community center. Walk-ins welcome or call Sharon at 715825-3733.

Frederic

Siren • Good Friday Breakfast at the senior center, 7:30-11:30 a.m., 715-349-7810.

Frederic

March usually produces one or two significant snowfalls and Monday night brought the area approximately six inches of snow. This bird house weathered the storm. - Photo by Gary King

SUNDAY/23 Luck

SATURDAY/22

• Bone Lake Lutheran Church Senior High Youth Easter Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m.

• Children’s Easter egg hunt at Cozy Corner.

Easter Bunny at noon, 715-244-3041.

St. Croix Falls

Dairyland Dresser

• Community Easter Celebration at the elementary school, 8 a.m. & 10 a.m., 715-4831100.

• Easter egg hunt, sponsored by Dresser Neighborhood Watch Group, 3 p.m. at the park on Main Street.

MONDAY/24

Frederic • Food fellowship & games at the senior center.

St. Croix Falls

• Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Easter egg hunt at Gaylord Nelson Memorial Park, 10 a.m., 715-483-3580 or info@scfwi.com.

• Fundraiser for Courtney Ewald at the American Legion, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 952-237-2731.

Siren • Children’s Easter egg hunt at the Moose Lodge, 1 p.m.

Trade Lake • Second of four sessions in Wine Basic Series at Trade River Winery, 2 p.m., 715-3274193, www.traderiverwinery.com.

Amery

• Knitting & crocheting, 9-11 a.m., at the senior center.

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

Siren

• Bingo, 1-3 p.m., at the senior center.

WEDNESDAY/26 Centuria

St. Croix Falls

St. Croix Falls

Webster • National Diabetes Alert Day at Wayne’s Foods Plus, 2-4 p.m.; U.S. Bank at 1-3 p.m.

Webster Lioness will hand out brochures.

• Slow-pitch softball league meeting at the fire hall, 7 p.m., 715-646-2177.

• Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo 11noon; blood pressure check, 11:30 a.m.; potluck lunch 12:30 p.m.; general meeting 1 p.m.; 500 cards 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Board game night at Sit-A-Spell Bookstore, 7-9 p.m., in The Les Amis Building, 715-4835124.

• Women of Evangelical Free Church Ladies Morning Retreat, 9:15-11:15 a.m., 715-3278767.

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m., at the senior center.

• Burnett County Republican Party meets at the Government Center, Room 162, 7 p.m.

Amery

• Cribbage, 1:30 p.m., at the senior center.

Frederic • Spades played, 1:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Public meeting on future of swimming pool at the high school, 6:30 p.m.

Grantsburg • Sen. Harsdorf hosting Secretary of Veterans Affairs John Scocos at the American Legion Post, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 800-862-1092.

Luck • Film “Why We Fight” presented at Café Wren, 6:30 p.m., 715-472-8721.

Milltown • Sen. Harsdorf hosting Secretary of Veterans Affairs John Scocos at the VFW Post 6856, 12 p.m., 800-862-1092.

St. Croix Falls • Art Group, 9:30 a.m.-noon, at the senior center.

• Grief and loss support group meeting at SCRMC, 2-3:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m., 715-4830272 for more info.

TUESDAY/25 Amery

• Men & women pool tourney, 9 a.m., at the senior center.

Balsam Lake • Polk County Historical Society meeting and program at the justice center, 7:15 p.m., 715483-3979.

Frederic

• Donkey basketball at the high school, 7 p.m.

• Spring Program of grades 1-3 at the school, 7 p.m.

• 500 Cards night, 6:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

Luck • American Legion & Auxiliary meeting at the village hall, celebrating Legion’s 89th birthday with potluck supper, 6:30 p.m.

St. Croix Falls • Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo 11noon; crafts 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; 500 cards 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the senior center.

• Sen. Herb Kohl’s rep., Marjorie Bunce , will be at city hall from 4 to 5 p.m. to meet with constituents.

Siren • UWEX beef distance-education program: Estrus Synchronization Protocols at the government center, 715-485-8600, 800-528-1914.

• Sen. Herb Kohl’s rep., Marjorie Bunce, will be at Burnett Co. Govt. Center, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., to meet with constituents.

• Covenant Men’s Ministry meeting at the church, 7 p.m., 715-239-5601.

St. Croix Falls

Spooner

• Exercise by YMCA, 10-11 a.m.; Skipbo 11noon; 500 cards and dominos 12:30-4 p.m., at the senior center.

• Sen. Herb Kohl’s rep., Marjorie Bunce will be at city hall from 10 to 11 a.m. to meet with constituents.

Siren

FRI. & SAT./28 & 29

• Food & Friends Community Dinner at Siren United Methodist Church, 5-6 p.m.

Rice Lake

• 7th-Annual Bull Ride at the hockey arena, open 5 p.m., starts at 7 p.m.

Lehto and Wright on stage at Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – A unique and upand-coming duo, Lehto and Wright, will make their first appearance on the Festival Theatre stage Saturday, March 29, at 7:30 p.m. With their contemporary guitar-based arrangements, John Wright and Steve Lehto have taken cues from the Irish, English and American folk traditions.

Lehto and Wright have a sound that is a unique blend of traditional and modern styles that results in a fresh approach to the world of folk rock and offer an exciting live performance of traditional and contemporary folk music with an eclectic twist. The duo will perform music from their first two critically acclaimed releases, “Ye Mariners All” and “The Further Adventures of Darling Cory,” in addition to material from their latest effort, “A Game of Chess.”

“We’ve been talking about a concert date for a long time,” says Danette Olsen, Festival Theatre’s director.

“These guys are very strong vocalists and exciting guitarists – their music has an energy and style that have created quite a buzz up and down the St. Croix River Valley!”

Wright’s work demonstrates a longstanding dedication to traditional music, and his background also spans many different musical styles, including blues, fusion, pop, Latin and rock.

By incorporating all these influences, Wright has his own unique approach to the folk and folk-rock genres. This is evident in his tasteful acoustic guitar and bass work.

With influences ranging from Miles Davis to Martin Carthy and King Crimson to Richard Thompson, Lehto’s impressive versatility and range on the guitar is matched only by the emotion he puts into his playing. Equally at home playing an Irish jig or a jazz standard, he is a force to be reckoned with in the folk and folk-rock world.

Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. Lehto and

Steve Lehto and John Wright Wright concert are $10. They can be purchased on the Web at www.festivaltheatre.org, by phone at 715-4833387 or 888-887-6002, or in person

during box office hours. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls at 210 North Washington. - submitted