Leader|march 21|2007

INTER-COUNTY

‘Follow the Leader’

March 21, 2007 2 sections • Vol. 71 • No. 30 8,000 copies

the-leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Since 1933

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SECTION A

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Another death ends homicide case Man facing trial for killing friend takes own life

Clinic responds

Page 3

Library & museum kickoff

Employees from Northwest Guidance Clinic send letter about story not told by media Page 11

Contract nonrenewal brings crowd to Webster Discussion leads to airing of a range of concerns Page 5

Golf course lease negotiation stops Solution needed by April 9

Page 2

Fire at Osceola business termed “suspicious” Agencies investigate

Page 6

Department of redundancy department?

Commission at St. Croix Falls debates how many public meetings are enough Page 13

All-Leader basketball teams are here! Page 15 S E R V I N G

Residents of the Luck and surrounding community met for Live at the Lot Saturday, celebrating the community kickoff of the library/museum building project. Groundbreaking for the building is planned for this fall. More photos and information in Currents section.

– Photo by Mary Stirrat

Local effort battles county’s high alcohol statistics Survey program boasts proven results

by Julie Holmquist POLK COUNTY - Polk County has a troubling distinction when it comes to alcohol.

While Wisconsin leads the nation in several alcohol-use statistics, with a new one just added (see sidebar), Polk County tops the state in at least one statistic.

The county has a much higher percentage of car crashes related to alcohol compared to the state.

While alcohol was a factor in 6.9 percent of the state’s car crashes in 2002, alcohol was a factor in 11.1 percent of Polk County’s car crashes that year.

Another alcohol-related county statistic is the fact that chronic liver disease and cirrhosis of the liver is now one of the top-10 causes of years of life lost in Polk County.

“That’s a boutique disease,” said Mike Rust of ABC for Rural Health. “For it to make it into the top 10 is pretty startling.”

After alcohol and substance abuse topped the

See PolkaDot, page 2

SCF teen earns Eagle Scout award

New Crex displays unveiled

Currents feature

Back page

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

Golf Course lease negotation stops Solution needed by April 9

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG – The future of the Grantsburg golf course is again uncertain.

Joe Schmidt, a golf course manager from Minnesota, has told Grantsburg Village he is no longer interested in negotiating a lease to operate the course. A village board meeting had been scheduled this Thursday evening to continue discussions on lease terms.

That meeting has been cancelled.

The village council has set April 9 as the date that a solution for the golf course must be reached. By that date, a lease of the course must be agreed to and the funds must be raised to replace the green and tee box that will be displaced by Burnett Medical Center construction. If both conditions are not met, the council has said it will close the course.

Village President Mark Dahlberg told the Leader that one other party has expressed an interest in leasing the course but no new negotiations are taking place at present.

The village offered the golf course for lease last fall. Dahlberg said that five parties expressed an interest and were invited to an informational meeting.

Only Joe Schmidt and his partners attended that meeting and pursued discussions with the village. After a series of meetings and a review of a proposed lease, Schmidt has now withdrawn from the negotiations.

The funds to rebuild the third green and ninth tee box may be available. The two fairways will be cut this summer when the BMC builds a new entry road to Hwy. 70 on land the center owns.

BMC has offered the village $50,000 for

the reconstruction work. Herfort Norby, a golf course consultant to the village, has said that this should be enough money to cover expenses. The council has stated that $60,000 must be raised

by April 9 to cover the repairs.

The village has made the decision not to operate the course without a lease.

Curtis Anderson, the village employee who has managed the course seasonally, has been reassigned to full-time work with the village crew. All other course and clubhouse workers have been told that they will not be needed in the future.

PolkaDot/from page 1 list of problems in a 2003 county health assessment, the county health department started working on a plan to fight the problem.

That led the department to a partnership with Dr. Rich Brown at the University of Wisconsin Medical School, and a three-year grant for a program called PolkaDOT (Polk County Alcohol and Drug Outreach and Training).

“Our county was in search of ways to reduce problem drinking and they were a project in search of a place,” said Rust, whose firm is contracted with Polk County. Rust is directing the PolkaDOT program.

For the past year, the Polk County Health Department and ABC for Rural Health have worked on implementing the new PolkaDOT project to combat the county’s alcohol problem.

PolkaDOT was derived form Dr. Brown’s tested research. That research shows that health surveys and educational interviews can help some people recognize and turn away from at-risk substance abuse behavior before it becomes addictive.

“The notion is that people (who are not fully dependent on alcohol) can still decide not to engage in certain behaviors and to not drink,” Rust said.

As part of the PolkaDOT program, patients at St. Croix Regional Medical Center in St. Croix Falls are now given a health survey to fill out at routine doctor visits.

The Amery Regional Medical Center is also ready to start distributing the written survey, Rust said.

The survey asks questions about tobacco use, exercise, weight, nutrition, alcohol and drugs. Patients completing the form are entered into a prize drawing and may later be contacted by a health specialist. They are also given a brochure promoting healthy living.

The surveys are then evaluated by a staff person funded by the $450,000 PolkaDOT grant.

INTER-COUNTY

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.

How to subscribe:

The Inter-County Leader [ISS No. 8750-9091] 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.

Terry Murphy, the POLKADOT Clinical Specialist /Counselor, screens the surveys, paying special attention to people who may fall into three alcohol use categories: at-risk, abuse, and dependent.

At Risk Men who drink more than 14 drinks a week or more than four drinks in one occasion are labeled “at risk.”

Women are considered at risk if they drink more than three drinks at one occasion or more than seven to 11 drinks during a week.

Elderly people are considered at risk if they drink more than seven drinks during a week or more than one drink per occasion.

Abuse The next category is called “abuse,” and indicates a continued use of a substance despite repeated adverse consequences.

(L to R) Gretchen Sampson, Polk County Health Department, Mike Rust, ABC for Rural Health, and Terrry Murphy have been working on the new PolkaDOT program to fight alcohol abuse. – Photo by Julie Holmquist

Dependence According to the PolkaDOT program, dependence indicates a brain disease involving loss of control over use, compulsive use, preoccupation, physical dependence and usually many health and psychosocial consequences.

Once the surveys are screened, people who may be in those categories are contacted and interviewed, Rust explained.

“People likely to be in those categories are followed up by an interview to decide if they are dependent (on alcohol), at risk or abusive,” Rust explained.

People who are dependent on alcohol are referred for help. People in the other categories receive “motivational interviewing.”

“The interviewing protocol uses education and motivation to encourage people to pursue healthier lifestyles,” Rust said. “It’s been tested and it’s been shown that it works.”

After a year of getting the program on its feet in the county, Rust said

PolkaDOT has now screened about 500 people.

About 34 percent of the people submitting surveys so far in Polk County have been in the at-risk, abuse, or dependent categories. But Rust and Gretchen Sampson of the Polk County Health Department said it’s still too early to say if that statistic represents the county.

The program will follow up on the interviews to discover if people change their drinking habits.

“We don’t have anecdotal data in yet,” Sampson said, but she said the plan is to have monthly reports Dr. Brown’s approach has been so popular that the state asked him to request a federal grant for a statewide project, so PolkaDOT is now blending with a similar grant project called Wisconsin Initiative to Promote Healthy Lifestyles. That’s a five-year, $12.5 million federal grant that also includes $1.8 million for treatment and involves five

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

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

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24154 State Road 35, Siren, WI 54872 (M-W, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) Thurs. & Fri. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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

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other areas of Wisconsin.

“So for people who are dependent, we will be able to send a number of them to treatment,” Rust said.

“The goal is to make this so everyone who comes in to primary health care gets screened,” Rust said.

State tops nation in alcohol stats Here’s the latest bad news: Wisconsin has the highest rate of underage drinking (ages 12 to 20) in the nation, according to a study released two weeks ago by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Wisconsin was highest at 39.5 percent while Utah came in lowest at 21.3 percent.

Wisconsin is also high in binge drinking. The state records 24.2 percent of its residents having five or more drinks per occasion. The national average is 16.5 percent.

While the U.S. average of heavy drinking, 60 or more drinks in the last month, is 5.7 percent, Wisconsin’s heavy-drinking average is 8.6 percent.

In Wisconsin, alcohol and drug use is the fourth-leading cause of death and hospitalizations in the state, with annual costs of $4.6 billion.

What’s a drink?

What constitutes one drink?

Standard measurements are: • A mug of beer, ale or malt liquor: 12 oz.

• A single shot of spirits (whiskey, gin, vodka, etc): 1.5 oz.

• A glass of wine: 5 oz.

• A wine cooler: 12 oz.

• A small glass of sherry, liqueur, or aperitif: 4 oz.

Hraychuck votes to end state crime lab backlog Burnett, Polk and St. Croix counties all have cases waiting on lab results MADISON – Rep. Ann Hraychuck voted on March 13 to bring justice to crime victims and their families by approving Assembly Bill 72, legislation that will create 31 additional positions for the state crime lab. The new staff will help move along the 1,833 cases that are currently waiting for DNA analysis.

“I was proud to cast a vote for 31 new crime lab analysts. The state crime lab backlog is an issue that affects everyone.

That is why it is so important that we came together to pass a bipartisan bill to put the safety of our families and our communities above partisan politics,” said Rep. Hraychuck Under Assembly Bill 72, the state crime lab will be provided enough funding to hire the additional staff needed to begin immediately processing pending cases, such as analyzing DNA evidence. The 15 analyst positions will be authorized once the bill becomes law. The remaining 16 will be funded in July of this year, pending state budget approval, and should help prevent future case backlogs.

“This is a great victory for crime victims and their families. No amount of staff is going to eliminate this backlog overnight, but this is a huge step forward. What the crime lab needed was more people and more time, and we gave them that by passing this bill,” said Rep. Hraychuck. - from the office of Rep. Hraychuck

Broadband availability encouraged MADISON-Internet providers seeking to provide broadband capability to previously unserved or underserved areas of Wisconsin can earn sales and income tax credits through a new Department of Commerce program, Commerce Secretary Mary P. Burke announced today.

“The Broadband Tax Exemption and Credit Program creates an incentive to expand broadband service around Wisconsin,” said Secretary Burke.

“Broadband availability is a key ingredient in a community’s ability to attract new businesses and foster the growth and development of both established and entrepreneurial businesses.”

Under the program, Commerce can allocate up to $7.5 million in tax incentives among businesses that will make investments, over the next two years, in equipment designed to provide broadband Internet availability to unserved or underserved areas of Wisconsin. The agency will review proposed equipment purchases and service plans to determine qualification for tax benefits. This equipment is defined as capable of transmitting data packets or Internet signals at speeds of at least 200 kilobits per second. Only approved purchases of eligible Internet equipment will be will be exempt from state sales taxes and earn businesses income tax credits in each of the next two years.

Application deadline is April 13. For more information, contact John Stricker at 608-261-7710. – from state Department of Commerce

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

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Homicide case ends with suicide Deaths are “senseless and tragic” says district attorney who was preparing to prosecute the case

by Gary King POLK COUNTY - Before he could be tried for the death of his friend, Timothy Lehman took his own life.

The 33-year-old Luck man shot himself at the home of his parents on Tuesday, according to authorities, adding another tragic element to a case that shook the local community – and ending a mystery with questions still unanswered.

Lehman’s family had posted a $100,000 bond a week earlier, allowing him to be released from jail after being charged with first-degree intentional homicide in the death a month ago of his friend, Jason Madsen, also 33.

Under the bond guidelines, Lehman

was required to live with his parents and not enter the village of Luck, where Madsen’s girlfriend and former neighbor to Lehman, lives.

According to a news release from the Polk County Timothy Lehman S h e r i f f ’ s Department, they received a call at 5:40 p.m. reporting a man down with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound on 240th Avenue in the town of Eureka.

The initial Polk County Medical Examiner’s report indicates it was suicide by gunshot wound to the head, according to District Attorney Dan Steffen.

Steffen said he’s also requested Dr. Janis Amatuzio, a well-known medical examiner from the Twin Cities, to review the case.

“What it comes down to is a situation

of two lost lives, which is tragic,” said Steffen. “This whole situation is senseless and tragic at the same time.”

Steffen said he would now begin the legal process of closing the state’s case against Lehman which includes gathering information to support a legal declaration of how they died.

Lehman was accused of taking Madsen’s life, using “blunt force trauma” sometime Friday evening or early Saturday morning, Feb. 16 or 17. He allegedly put Madsen’s body in the back of his pickup truck and driving to a location approximately five miles east of Luck.

Authorities were led to the body by pieces of scrap wood, stained with blood, which had apparently fallen out of Lehman’s pickup as he transported the body, leading police to Madsen’s body.

A preliminary hearing for the case had been scheduled for next Tuesday.

Clayton man charged with abusing infant daughter

by Julie Holmquist POLK COUNTY – A Clayton man has been charged in Polk County with two felony counts of physical abuse of his 2-month-old daughter and is in custody in Polk County Jail.

Vernon Anderson-Robertson, 26, was arrested last week after a deputy was called to the Amery Medical Center Emergency Room.

The 2-month-old girl had been taken to the emergency room after her mother noticed a “crackling noise” in the girl’s chest area, according to the criminal complaint.

The infant was airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn. and later admitted to the prenatal intensivecare unit in Children’s Hospital.

Polk County Lt. Steve Smith reported that the child has “severe medical problems.” Physicians placed the

child into a coma to prevent seizure activity.

Physicians at the Children’s Hospital said the child displayed classic signs of the abuse. The infant has retinal hemorrhages that indicate shaken baby syndrome, and there was also evidence of multiple old rib fractures.

Hospital physicians advised Polk County investigators that the infant had bruising on the brain, seizure activity, old and new rib fractures, body bruises, low hemoglobin and other injuries indicating nonaccidental trauma.

According to the criminal complaint, Anderson-Robertson explained to the deputy that he caused the baby’s injuries. He told authorities that on March 6 he squeezed the infant in a bear hug. He also admitted

to being frustrated and angry and throwing her into her crib. He told investigators that the left side of her head struck the crib railing when he did that.

Anderson-Robertson also told authorities that on at least two occasions, he squeezed the baby around the rib cage, and hit the baby with an open hand on the left side of her head at least twice. He said that on at least two occasions, he became frustrated, lost his temper, and took his anger out on the infant. According to the complaint, he also admitted that he caused the older injuries to the infant.

Anderson-Robertson, if convicted, faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.

Leadership Academy meets at St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS - The March 14, monthly training of the Polk-Burnett Leadership Academy met at the National Park Service building in St. Croix Falls.

The daylong session focused on Community Development and Planning including a tour of St. Croix Falls Main Street with a stop at the St. Croix Falls Public Library with a brief overview of the current library by director Sarah Adams. Facilitators for the leadership academy are Bob Kazmeriski, community resource director, UWExtension Polk County and Mike Kormann, UW-Extension Burnett County.

Polk-Burnett Leadership Academy Cultivating a better community.... and discovering new horizons The Polk-Burnett Leadership Academy offers individuals

working and living in Polk and Burnett counties the opportunity to change their lives and lives of those in the area around them.

In partnership with the University of Wisconsin Extension, participants meet once per month from September through May. Each daylong session will provide the opportunity for personal and professional growth. In the first session, you will learn to expand and perfect your leadership potential and leadership style. You will learn how to work with others and motivate yourself to take on and solve business and community issues.

The later sessions will provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into various communities within the Polk-Burnett area. You will meet and interact with the leaders from the region who will present concrete information about local issues of concern.

Standing by the St. Croix Falls overlook are the following participants: (not in order): Sara McCurdy ( Polk County Land Information Director), Viclu Cichon, Mark Miller, Laurie Bull, Colleen Gifford (Polk County Library Federation Director), Eric Wojchik (Polk County Land & Water Resources department), Karla Brunberg, Kristi Vassen, Bryan Beseler (Polk County Board of Supervisors), Jenny Bergmann-Mortel, Dianne Connor. – Photo submitted

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

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Fundraisers planned to aid family of deceased Iraq War veteran

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – For a cause that means so much to her that she is willing to risk arrest if the goal is not met, Delores Staples and members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 403, Webb Lake, are trying to raise $10,000 on behalf of the family of deceased Iraq War veteran Marine Sgt. Chad Allen.

“I want the judge to issue a warrant for my arrest if we don’t get the $10,000,” Staples said Tuesday, March 20, sincere determination and conviction very much evident in her voice.

The $10,000 will cover the cost of sending Allen’s family, parents Steve and Deborah Allen of Danbury, his grandmother, and other relatives, to North Carolina to meet with members of Allen’s military unit when they come back to home base sometime in May. Seven people in total have indicated they would like to make the trip, and the money will cover airfare, motel rooms, food, transportation and other expenses for the trip.

Staples is no stranger to fundraising and helping people in need. She talked about the effort of Hole in the Wall Casino, other casinos in the area and the St. Croix Tribe in donating money to help United States military personnel deployed to Iraq. She mentioned the need for addresses of these people.

“This hit so close to home,” Staples said about the news of the Feb. 28 death of Allen in Anbar province in Iraq. She is a good friend of Allen’s parents, who live in Cozy Corners north of Danbury.

Allen was killed when a bomb exploded during combat operations, according to the Department of Defense. He had volunteered for a second tour of duty in Iraq to take the place

(L to R) Lt. A. J. Kangas from the St. Croix Tribal Police Department; Vicki Tighe, temporary secretary/membership chair for American Legion Auxiliary Unit 403, Webb Lake; Delores Staples, St. Croix tribal elder and member of the Legion Auxiliary Unit 403; and Chief Deputy Don Taylor took time for a photo underneath the plaque to deceased Burnett County veterans at the Burnett County Government Center Tuesday, March 20. The four were there to publicize the start of the auxiliary campaign to raise $10,000. This money will be used to get recently deceased Iraq veteran Chad Allen’s family to North Carolina to meet members of Allen’s unit when they return to the states sometime in May. of an injured fellow Marine. He was assigned to the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp LeJeune, N.C. According to Staples, the Allens plan to ride their son’s Harley motorcycle to put a wreath on his grave at the Northwest Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery in Spooner sometime around Memorial Day. “I don’t want them to ride alone,” Staples said, asking for bikers to consider making the trip with the

Buttons commemorating the loss of Chad Allen, son of Steve and Deborah Allen of Danbury, are now being circulated in Burnett County and the surrounding areas. The 25year-old Allen was killed Feb. 28 when a bomb exploded during combat operations in Anbar province in Iraq. He was a part of the 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Allens. “I’ve got a 10-speed, and I could Expeditionary Force at Camp make it as far as Hillside,” Staples LeJeune, N.C., and was on his secquipped. ond tour of duty in Iraq.

A series of parties and fundraisers are in the planning stages, including one at the Fishbowl United Sportsman’s Club the deadline for raising the money.

Allen’s funeral was held in his homenorth of Danbury April 5 (donations of town of Maple Lake. “We want (people) food are needed) and one May 5 at the to know that Webb Lake is helping Cabaret in Webb Lake. Anyone who them,” Staples and auxiliary member would like to make a donation to the Vicki Tighe agreed.

“This is going to cause can send their check to: American Allen family).

They gave more help (the Legion Auxiliary Unit 403, 28023 Sand enough.” than Lake Road, Webster WI 54893. May 1 is

Variance recommended for eye clinic at Webster

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER – No one attended the public hearing scheduled before the village of Webster’s trustees meeting last Wednesday, March 14, for a eye clinic proposed by Larry Tran. The eye clinic is to fill the lot between the pharmacy and the antique store on north side of Main Street.

A building, with only 4-1/2 feet from each adjacent building, is proposed, less than the 9-foot space usually required.

by Sherrill Summer SIREN – Shonda McFaggen pleaded no contest to substantial battery, a class I felony, with a dangerous weapons enhancer in front of Judge Harrington yesterday, March 20.

MacFaggen was originally charged with aggravated battery stemming from the stabbing of a 15-year-old male in the village of Siren on March 31, 2006. The

During the regular meeting, the reduced space between adjacent buildings was approved with the conditions that a certified letter be sent, informing an adjacent landowner of the variance.

Although letters with the proposed variance were already sent to adjacent landowners, one of the landowners winters out of the area, and there is some uncertainty if she received the notice.

After receiving the certified letter, the

landowner has five days to contest the variance.

Web site sponsorship Trustees decided to again be a sponsor for the Burnett County Development Association’s Web site this year. A sponsorship is $75 a year, and with it, space is provided to promote Webster. With this renewed sponsorship, attempts will be made to update Webster’s information.

No contest plea entered

victim was taken to Burnett Medical Center for three lacerations requiring stitches. McFaggen left the scene of the stabbing, changed clothes and found a ride to Hertel, throwing her shoes out the window along the way.

There were no witnesses that saw the stabbing, or even saw McFaggen with a knife, although a knife was found in a bedroom with blood on it. Fresh blood

was also found on a bed and wall in the bedroom and in an entryway near the kitchen. No blood was found on the refrigerator where the stabbing allegedly took place.

Although McFaggen’s attorney, Mark Biller, tried to get the charges dismissed during the preliminary hearing, Judge Gableman denied the motion.

McFaggen pleaded not guilty on May

Other business A motion was passed changing the usual procedure for payments for December meetings, so that December’s payment does not carry over into the next year. The $131.44 in shared taxes not collected by Indianhead Shared Therapy was charged back

24, 2006.

Two other charges of possession of methamphetamine and bail jumping were dropped by the prosecution.

McFaggen faces a maximum penalty of a $10,000 fine, at least five years in prison followed by two years extended supervision. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 2.

Truck theft investigated GRANTSBURG – Last Sunday, March 18, a stolen pickup truck from Minnesota, was recovered in the Grantsburg Village but, soon after, another pickup truck was stolen nearby.

A Burnett County police officer first made contact with the driver of a truck parked off of Oak Street as the man was acting suspiciously. The officer requested the usual information from a Minnesota license plate.

Nothing unusual was revealed about the license plate, except that the plate did not match the truck.

Meanwhile, as the officer was waiting for the dispatcher to provide information back to the officer, the suspect fled the scene on foot towards Memory Lake

Park. Soon after, a pickup truck with the keys in the ignition was taken from the Throngard residence on Wisconsin Avenue.

A photo of a possible suspect was obtained from the Minnesota DMV, and the officer that made contact with the suspect on Oak Street was able to identify the suspect as Colt A. Bellin, 23, from Stacy, Minn. A neighbor to the Throngard residence was able to give a clothing description of the suspect who stole the truck from Wisconsin Avenue.

This clothing description matched what Bellin was wearing this day. The incident remains under investigation Leif Throngard’s truck is a blue 1995 Chevrolet K1500 with a silver dog box

in the bed, dual exhaust and large tires.

Bellin is 5’ 8” with a medium build, has blue eyes, and blond hair with a receding hairline. Anyone who sees a truck

or individual matching this description should contact the sheriff’s department.

– Sherill Summer

Woman dies from accident injuries WEBSTER – A 35-year-old woman who sustained serious injuries in a Dec. 8 car accident has died.

Christal L. Honts of Webster died Friday at the Frederic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. A full obituary appears elsewhere in this issue of the Leader.

Honts was driving west on CTH A near Stone Road in the town of Oakland

at approximately 10:16 p.m. when she lost control of the vehicle she was driving and entered the ditch. The vehicle dug into the ground and flipped over, according to a report by the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department. Honts was ejected from the vehicle. She was transferred to a hospital in Minnesota for treatment. – submitted

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

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Contract nonrenewal draws crowd to Webster

Discussion leads to airing of a range of concerns

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - A crowd of more than 70 persons gathered at the regularly scheduled Webster School Board meeting Monday night to question the board’s nonrenewal of a teacher’s contract. The ensuing discussion, however, presented the board with a long list of parental and student concerns.

At a special meeting called March 13 to deal with personnel issues, board members approved a motion not to renew the contract of sixth-grade teacher Sean Oswald. Oswald’s supporters asked for an opportunity to address the board about this action, and the board put the item on Monday night’s agenda.

Taking the lead in the discussion, parent Wendy Larson read from a lengthy prepared statement that questioned the manner in which the board had made its decision on Oswald’s contract. She suggested that the board had not listened to parents who supported Oswald nor had it listened to Oswald’s peers among the teachers who had worked with him.

“You don’t want to hear what we have to say,” said Larson. “The voices of the teachers are being stifled,” she continued.

Board President Mark Elliott explained that all new teachers who come into the district go through a threeyear probationary period before they are tenured.

Since it is very difficult to remove a problem teacher after that person gets tenure, school districts regularly use the probationary process to be as certain as possible that only quality teachers are tenured and remain in the district.

The question was raised as to why potentially problem teachers were hired in the first place. Why weren’t they eliminated in the interview process?

Board members said that the interview process does not make it possible to really know the prospective teacher. That’s why the probationary period is necessary.

Other board members indicated that the process of evaluating a teacher, such as Oswald, during the probationary period is both complex and difficult. The mix of information used in the process includes regular administrative reviews and evaluations of the teacher’s work, feedback from parents and students, interactions with the teacher’s peers and several other factors. Said board member Doug Quenzer, “We have to take a lot of things into consideration.”

Larson, however, claimed that input from teachers into these considerations was severely limited. She said the administration had intimidated the teachers so that they would not furnish comments that opposed board and administration thinking.

Jill Norman, Webster Schools guidance counselor, responded to this. “I’m a teacher,” she said. “We are not intimidated.”

Some of the gathered crowd questioned whether there were financial considerations that entered into the process. Were teacher contracts terminated to save money or perhaps to make it possible to hire inexperienced teachers at a lower cost? The board responded that this was not the case.

When pressed about the nonrenewal of Oswald’s contract, Elliott said that he could not comment specifically about this decision because of confidentiality issues. Some of Oswald’s supporters, however, pointed out that he was willing to waive confidentiality

Wendy Larson addressed the Webster School Board with a long list of concerns at Monday’s board meeting. - Photos by Carl Heidel

processes and wanted to have his situation discussed in public rather than closed session.

Elliott responded that the matter of confidentiality involved more persons than just Oswald. His reputation might need to be protected from information that could be detrimental, but the confidentiality of the sources from which evaluations came also must be protected.

Several from the crowd expressed the opinion that the evaluation process was flawed and needed to be improved. Quenzer responded, “You are expressing an opinion that many of us (on the board) already have.” Added Elliott, “It’s not as clinical as we want to make it.”

With regard to the board’s action on Oswald’s contract, Quenzer said, “We deliberated over an hour. It was a difficult decision.”

Scattered throughout the discussion were questions about the hiring and probationary process in general.

How many teachers actually survive the probationary process, and how many have survived in the past few years? The suggestion was that in recent years a disproportionately high number of teachers had not had contracts renewed after probation.

Board members and administration could not give exact figures, but they did acknowledge that this general impression might be correct. They indicated, however, that this was not simply a result of the evaluation process or the makeup of the board.

“There are multiple factors that feed into the quality of teachers (applying to the district for jobs),” said one board member. Others commented that a higher nonrenewal figure is more a result of less qualified applicants than of particular board issues.

Jim Daniels asked whether the Webster schools are acquiring a bad reputation in all of this, a reputation that would keep good teachers from applying here for employment. This would make it difficult to find qualified teachers. Board members stated that they did not feel that the school’s reputation had been diminished in any way.

As the discussion continued, those in attendance voiced other concerns with a wide range of matters in the school district. Why don’t the schools accept offers from volunteers to coach girls sports? Why is lunch scheduled after recess? What is the rationale behind some of the scheduling? Why are students who are being bussed dropped off at taverns? Why is use of the science center limited?

What is the pupil-teacher ratio? Why can’t there be teacher aides in larger class situations? Why are detentions being handled as they are? The list ran on and on.

Superintendent Jim Erickson responded to several of the items individually. The scheduling of lunchtime is mandated by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. Science center use is governed by a number of factors and is now under study. Scheduling is guided by a number of factors and some of the Audience members followed the discussion closely as visitors to last scheduling is designed to Monday’s Webster Board of Education meeting and board members and create a better learning sitadministrators considered a wide range of issues. uation for the students.

High School Principal

Tim Widiker explained that the problem with students being dropped off at taverns had been corrected. Since students sometimes have to wait at drop-off points until someone arrives to get them home, the bus drivers have to leave the students at a place where they have shelter. Sometimes a tavern was the closest shelter.

Elementary School Principal Jim Walsh cited class size figures ranging between 22-27 students.

Aside from direct answers to some of the questions, board members and administrators urged the members of the district to speak directly to them about concerns with the schools. “We have processes for dealing with the issues,” said Elliott. “Use the process.”

Erickson affirmed this by asking several of those present with questions to call him to set a time for meeting with him to discuss the issues. “Just call me,” he said to the crowd.

Larson indicated that some of the people attending the meeting don’t understand the process. She indicated that people with problems who approach board members sometimes feel as though the board member doesn’t care to deal with the problem.

Quenzer and board member Brenda Bentley both pointed out that board members do not directly administer the schools, and that they sometimes have to refer concerned people to administrators or board subcommittees with responsibilities for addressing specific issues. Added Bentley, “We’re all public people. I take phone calls in my home at night.”

At the end of more than an hour and a half of discussion between the large gathering of visitors and the board members and administrators, it was apparent that not all issues had been completely resolved or fully addressed. But it was also apparent that a dialogue between the parties had begun, and the initial level of tension present at the beginning of the meeting had diminished greatly by the end of the discussion.

In other business the board: • received a report from Tiger Manufacturing showing that it was financially where it should be; • approved open-enrollment applications, a retirement request from Cherie Ammend, an administrative contract with school psychologist Karen M. Rivers and a 4K teaching contract with Lori Ward-Macomber; • approved the application for WIAA co-op hockey; • received notification of the closing of the Polk County Special Education School, and notification of approval of the district’s grant application for DPI money to fund a variety of district programs.

Administrators and board members listened as residents from the Webster School District shared their thoughts at Monday’s board meeting.

Pictured are: (L to R) board President Mark Elliott and Superintendent Jim Erickson.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

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Fire at Osceola business under investigation

by Julie Holmquist OSCEOLA - An Osceola fire termed “suspicious” by the Osceola fire chief is being investigated by the Wisconsin Department of Justice State Fire Marshal and the Polk County Sheriff’s Department.

Just before midnight Saturday, the Osceola Fire Department responded to a fire at 35 Auto Sales & Service on Hwy. 35 south of Osceola.

“We had it knocked down quite quickly,” said Osceola Fire Chief Don Stark. “The fire was contained to the office and lobby.”

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, a passerby reported the fire after noticing smoke coming form the building, paint blistering on the outside and the front door standing open.

Because it was a steel building, Stark

Amery radio station sold

by Julie Holmquist AMERY – Anyone tuning into the Amery WXCE radio station over the weekend may have noticed some dead air.

The station was dealing with technical difficulties over the weekend, according to Ron Revere, representing Red Rock Radio Corp., the radio station’s new owners.

Revere is the manager of Mix 105, the FM station in Luck, which is also owned

by Red Rock Radio. Revere was in Amery Monday assisting with a staff transition.

“We just had some simple engineering problems,” Revere said about the weekend broadcasting.

Red Rock Radio, based in Fargo, N.D., operates radio stations in Duluth, Minn., Luck, Hayward, International Falls, Brainerd, Minn., and now Amery.

The company, under the umbrella of its multibillion dollar parent corporation Regis Hair Salons, purchased WXCE on Feb. 1 from Lake Country Broadcasting.

“The previous owners had been trying to unload the station for years,” Revere said. “The station had lost hundreds of thousands of dollars over the

last five years, and the revenue was down by almost 50 percent in the last five years.”

The station was in “poor” financial condition, he said, and “had been that way for some time.”

Although Revere confirmed that WXCE manager Darren Van Blaricom was released from his position on Thursday, and some staff people left their jobs, Revere stressed that the station is not closing and no immediate changes are planned for WXCE programming.

Red Rock Radio plans to move the Luck station (WLMX 104.9 FM) to the Amery office, and continue operating WXCE (AM 1260) from the same building.

Revere said that additional staff will be hired, and that a new manager was already on the job Monday. Cheryl Rockenbach, from the Hayward radio station is the new WXCE manager.

Van Blaricom, who worked at the station for more than eight years and is a member of the Amery School Board, said the layoff on Thursday took him “totally by surprise.”

“It’s unfortunate, but that’s what happens in business,” he said.

said he wasn’t concerned with any danger of the fire spreading.

“The office was like an oven,” however, he said, and that area was gutted.

The garage portion of the building received only smoke damage and a few vehicles were damaged, but the building was not a total loss. No one was in the business at the time of the fire.

Lt. Steve Smith of the sheriff’s department said the fire marshal has so far ruled out an electrical cause of the fire.

Stark said the firefighters needed to spend only a couple hours extinguishing the fire, ventilating the building and doing cleanup.

“The guys did a great job,” said Stark, who took office as fire chief less than two weeks ago, after longtime Chief Carl Rossi stepped down. Stark has served on the Osceola Fire Department for 26 years.

Stark termed the fire “suspicious” and said he wanted to have it investigated for the possibility of arson. The state fire marshal spent several hours Sunday investigating the cause and the origin of the fire.

35 Auto Sales & Service is owned by Edward Page of Lake Elmo, Minn.

Frederic man charged with burglary POLK COUNTY - A Frederic man with a lengthy Minnesota criminal history has been charged with felony burglary and obstructing an officer in Polk County.

A Polk County Sheriff’s deputy was called to 140th Street March 14 at 10 p.m. because of a suspicious vehicle parked in a driveway.

Polk County Sheriff’s Department arrested Timothy Clark, 42, on 140th Street for the alleged burglary of a Hobart welder and two chain saws that were found in the back of the brown Cadillac Clark was driving. The Cadillac’s front end was damaged.

Clark told the officer that he had trav-

eled to Luck and was on his way home to Frederic. When the officer questioned him about the tools and asked him again about the Hobart welder, which appeared almost new, Clark eventually told him “Man, you know I stole it.”

An officer checked an address nearby for signs of burglary and found a forced entry into a garage that was missing the welder and chain saws.

Clark has a lengthy criminal history in Minnesota including a felony burglary conviction, aggravated robbery, a felony first-degree sexual assault conviction in 1983, a felony aggravated robbery conviction in 1991, as well as other convictions. – Julie Holmquist

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Three people sought in Siren purse theft

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – As many as three people are now believed to be involved in the theft of a purse from Karen D. Nichols’ locked vehicle in the Siren school parking lot March 8. At the current time, credit cards belonging to Nichols are not being used, but checks with Nichols’ signature have been spotted in the Cambridge, Minn., and New London areas.

According to Siren Police Chief Chris Sybers, who is putting together the narrative and investigating the theft, Nichols put her purse under a coat and locked her vehicle when she went into Siren school at 8:10 a.m. When she came out an hour later, the passengerside window of the vehicle had been pried open and shattered, and the purse was missing.

The sheriff’s department was notified right away, and Sybers was dispatched to the school.

The thieves began to use credit and a traveler’s ATM cards (requiring no pin number) almost immediately. Two cards were used at the Siren Holiday Station, one for gas, the other for the ATM machine that required no pin number.

The next stop for the thieves was at an ATM machine at U.S. Bank in Grantsburg. This machine required a pin number, and no money was obtained.

Forest Lake, Minn., and an outside drive-up farthest away from the teller’s window was used to cash a check for $500, with Nichols’ driver’s license used as proof of identity. This indicates the possibility that one of the involved women resembled the picture of

2007 Polk County tourism guides available POLK COUNTY – The new 2007 Polk County Tourism guides are now available for individuals and businesses to pick up at the Polk County Information Center.

The guide includes a calendar of events, map of Polk County, sections on golf courses, the arts, parks, day trips, trails, churches and more. – submitted

Interstate Park news ST. CROIX FALLS – Join Naturalist Julie Fox at 10 a.m. on Thursdays through March at the Ice Age Center at Wisconsin Interstate Park for a story and activity chosen especially for preschoolers and their parents. Please bring clothing for outdoor play (weather permitting).

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35 just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. For more information, call Julie at 715-483-3747. – from Interstate Park

Dems to meet CLEAR LAKE – The Polk County Democratic Party will meet Thursday, March 22, at 7 p.m. at Lucky’s Bar & Grill at 458 Third Ave., in Clear Lake (Main Street).

For further information call 715-2633888.

Nichols on the license.

Credit cards were used to get merchandise at a Kohl’s Department Store in Lino Lakes, Minn., and an Old Navy store in North Branch, Minn.

Following that, again according to Sybers, $400 was withdrawn from a U.S. Bank account in South Forest Lake, Minn.

An alert teller at a U.S. Bank in St. Anthony, Minn., noted on her computer screen that Nichols’ identity had been stolen. The teller notified the bank manager and the local police department, but the thieves had taken off when she came back to tell them to wait a few minutes more.

In all the U.S. Bank situations, Sybers said, a maroon truck with white or silver on the side and a partial Minnesota license plate beginning with LSJ was used. The male driving the truck was described as being in his late 20s or early 30s, and wearing a black baseball cap and black jacket. He is said to have kept his face down.

A blond woman, believed to resemble Nichols, was sitting on the passenger side. She was described as a petite woman, wearing a pink coat and blue jeans. A third person, a dark-haired woman wearing a black jacket and tan pants, was photographed by a video camera during the transaction at the Siren Holiday Station.

Sybers hopes to have photos of the three suspects available by the next newspaper printing. This case is under active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Siren Police Department at 715-3497181.

Group claims candidate compromised neutrality MADISON - A government watchdog group has filed a complaint against Supreme Court candidate Annette Ziegler for hearing cases on the bench in which she had an alleged conflict of interest.

The Wisconsin Democracy Campaign is going after Ziegler for not recusing herself in 16 cases. Seven of those involved the West Bend Savings Bank, where her husband is on the Board of Directors. The other nine involved businesses in which Ziegler holds at least $50,000 worth of stock.

Democracy Campaign Director Mike McCabe calls Ziegler’s actions a clear cut and flagrant violation of the rules. He says his group thought it important to file this complaint publicly so there’s pressure on the state’s Judicial Commission to decide on it one way or another. He says if the Judicial Commission doesn’t do anything, then that actually sends a very clear message to the entire legal community that the code of ethics can be taken with “a grain of salt,” and that what appear to be very clear cut, black letter rules, are in fact “awfully gray” and can be obeyed or ignored.

Ziegler has said she welcomes any impartial review of any of these cases. Her campaign manager, Mark Graul, says that in each instance, Ziegler was impartial and fair. He says no one has ever questioned the outcome of the cases, and he says it’s clear that she was fair to everyone involved and showed no bias to either party. Graul also says some of these cases involved small claims, where the parties involved never appeared before Ziegler and a clerk handled the paperwork.

McCabe says while that’s true for some of the cases, it’s immaterial. He says nowhere in the code of ethics does it let judges ignore the rules just because of the nature of a case. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

L e a d e r We b Po l l Last week’s question: Should the Packers sign Randy Moss?

1. Yes 41 votes (31 percent) 2. No 93 votes (69 percent) Total votes: 134 This week’s question: Should smoking be banned in Wisconsin taverns and restaurants?

1. Yes 2. No 3. Just restaurants You can participate in our weekly Web poll by going to www.the-leader.net and scrolling down to the lower left hand portion of the front page.

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M Editor’s NOTEBOOK Pick a candidate, any candidate

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faithful reader contacted us this week wondering if we'd publish any news on the upcoming state Supreme Court race.

There will be a new member elected to the court in the April election - just a few short weeks away - and who among us can recite the names of the candidates?

Results of a recent poll conducted by Federalist Society and reported in the Wisconsin State Journal show that four out of five voters don't even know how many judges there are on our state Supreme Court. Only 16 percent were able to name just one of the Supreme Court judges.

"At the risk of offending the tender sensibilities of some voters, we have to wonder about the wisdom of a system in which the ignorant elect the unknown - is that any way to run the highest legal authority in Wisconsin?" stated an editorial this week in the Beloit Daily News.

Good point. And how do we change that?

While we certainly have our hands full trying to inform our readers about our local government races, let alone state races, it's clear many readers long for more state news from their local newspaper and any other available media source.

And it’s clear the Internet is the winner when it comes to informing voters.

Some of the better sites for Wisconsin news are www.wpr.org (Wisconsin Public Radio) and the sites for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel (jsonline.com) and the Madison-based newspapers, the Capital Times and Wisconsin State Journal (both at www.madison.com). Most of the state's newspaper Web sites can be found by surfing to newspaperlinks.com - and clicking on the state of Wisconsin.

By the way, there are two candidates running to fill the seat of retiring Supreme Court Justice Jon Wilcox - Washington County Circuit Court Judge Annette Ziegler and Madison attorney Linda Clifford. Both have Web sites easily found through any search engine.

These races remain somewhat of an enigma to voters and the results are pretty much impossible to analyze.

We plan to run information on the candidates but encourage you to grab a mouse and do some clicking if you're serious about making an informed choice. And good luck.

Saving us from ourselves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

here are reasonable arguments to be made that the more we try to save ourselves from ourselves, the more of a mess we make.

Mandatory recycling - what some maintain is based on myths - a system that allowed rubbish to become a matter of federal regulation, is still going strong and creating new jobs. Books have been written by critics of mandatory recycling, with the basic message being that it wasn’t needed. The best thing about mandatory recycling, one critic noted, is that it inadvertently became the new Presidential Fitness program as people realized they had to sort and then cart rubbish -sometimes the length of a very long driveway.

Now comes the news - recently published in Agri-View news, that ethanol may not be so consumer-friendly after all. Everybody loves ethanol - it's an alternative fuel that provides promise to end our dependency on the evil oil empires - saving our environment - and potentially save us money.

Don't hold your breath on either count - but particularly the latter.

Agri-View reports statistics from the federal ag department stating that ethanol will devour 50 percent more corn this year, eating into the food industry's share of the crop. From breakfast cereal to beef to beer, competition from thanol could raise prices for all kinds of foods. “People may not eat the kind of corn that makes ethanol but cows, pigs and chickens do,” notes the AgriView article. “And people eat other grains that will become less plentiful as farmers plant more corn.”

There might also be some strong arguments on how much fuel and energy is used in planting, harvesting and preparing ethanol.

There are more alternative fuels out there, each with their own pros and cons.

But we’d like to see the production of ethanol become economical for the consumer - without other costs negating its appeal.

Consumers need to beware that there are prices to be paid for saving the world - and guess who is going to pay it?

All editorials on this page by editor Gary King

A tip ‘O the Hat Delores Staples

Hat’s off this week to Delores Staples for taking a lead role in establishing fundraisers for the Allen family of Burnett County who lost their son, Sgt. Chad Allen, on Feb. 28 when he was killed by a bomb during combat operations in Iraq. Staples and her fellow members of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 403 of Webb Lake - who also deserve a tip of the hat - are trying to raise $10,000 on behalf of the family, helping with expenses for them to travel to North Carolina sometime in May to meet members of their son’s military unit. An elder of the St. Croix Tribe, Staples has been active also in the tribes efforts to raise and donate money to help U.S. military personnel in Iraq - and she’s looking for addresses. As a friend of Sgt. Allen’s parents, Staples said she’s determined to do what it takes to make the Auxiliary’s fundraisers a success - and her determination is showing.

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

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L e a d e r Views from across the S t a t e

Reaping what you sow

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he new farm bill that the Bush administration is proposing sets the right tone for what will likely be a debate as blistering as an August day in a soybean field.

President Bush's proposals would cut farm spending overall, in particular traditional programs that have disproportionately gone to a small number of congressional districts. He preserves the Milk Income Loss Contract program, championed by Sen. Herb Kohl, D-WI. And he plows nearly $10 billion into new spending for conservation, wetlands restoration and the development of biofuels. All good ideas.

So are cuts to mainline commodity programs. These already bloated giveaways grew grossly overweight in 2002 when, during an election year, the new administration ladled on the goodies for key farm state districts as the last farm bill moved through Congress.

The result was programs that don't work very well for anyone, least of all smaller farms. The overly rich U.S. subsidies were a key reason talks to negotiate a global trade agreement collapsed last year.

One proposal already drawing fire is the income cap on subsidies. Under the Bush plan, only farmers making less than $200,000 a year could receive them.

What Congress must resist is the inevitable parochial impulse to pick the bill apart or tuck in sweeteners. As it stands now, half of all farm spending goes to just 22 congressional districts. That's a colossal waste of taxpayer money and a lopsided approach that hurts the farm economy by sending exactly the wrong economic signals.

Farmers need to move toward a more market-based approach. This bill is a step in that direction. - Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

F O R U M

C o m m u n i t y Family, Part II

have to tell me again to get a job the summer I turned 17. y last contribution to the Community But that is what dads are for - to give you direcCorner focused on mothers. After a friend tion, advice, an example of hard work and a sense of commented on the importance of fathers, security. They are the stalwart ones. I learned what a I decided to devote this column to fathers. good man was like by watching my dad, just like A funny thing happened on the way to the end of Ilearned what a good woman was like by watching the world. We forgot about nuclear families - dad, my mom. mom and kids.

I know that not all families are ideal. But does that We forgot about the importance of parents providthat we shouldn't have an ideal to work mean Carolyn ing a loving, stable, wholesome environment for toward?

Do we give up the concept of a mom-dadchildren to grow up in. And in particular we forgot Marquardt kid family just because not all families are like that? about the importance of good old dad.

I don't think so. Families are too important to socieDad is a forgotten face in hundreds of families ty for us to mess with. Society needs standards to function. today. Some social pundits even wonder if he is or ever was There have to be norms even if there is no one that perfectimportant at all. Situation comedies portray fathers in partic- ly fits the norm. ular, and men in general, as sappy goofballs at best and Otherwise society becomes so chaotic that it can't survive. hopelessly stupid at worst.

And the funny thing that happened on the way to the end of Fortunately for me my father was neither a goofball or the world won't be so funny. hopelessly stupid. In fact, neither were the fathers of my friends. They all were considerate, caring men who worked Editor’s note: Carolyn was introduced to community service by hard to provide for their families. her parents, who were active members of their church, schools and My favorite father-time was spent sitting on the sofa political events. She was raised outside of Chicago and lived in watching a favorite TV program. His soft shoulder was my Colorado, Washington, D.C., and Minnesota before moving to pillow. We didn't talk much.

Wisconsin in 2001, five days after the Siren tornado. “I have We just relished each other's presence. No matter how dis- always loved politics, religion and people,” she notes. “And I love mal my teenage day was, his shoulder comforted me. His a good debae over currents issues.” She and her husband, Jerry, silent acceptance was more beneficial than $10,000 of psycho- have been married 38 years and have children, 11 grandchildren logical counseling. and one great-grandson. “We love living on Viola Lake in Burnett On the other hand, Dad possessed that commanding pres- County. Before moving here I always lived in large city areas but ence I wouldn't even think of crossing. Lie to Dad? Not on tell my friends that it only took me a week to become a country girl. your life! He also did not put up with nonsense.

We have made wonderful friends in the area both in our church and The summer I turned 16 while I was dreaming of sunning through the community activities that we participate in.” on the beach, he was envisioning me working at my first real job. He warned me and, when I failed to find one, he found one for me. Did I say you didn't say “No” to him? He didn't

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Morneau bobblehead.

Unfortunately, it seems the young Canadian player has$18 for the spring training cap n't made it to bobblehead stamy husband had his eyes set tus as yet. I was one of the on. The price for the official lucky ones to get a bobbleTwins cap was $32. That didn't head at the game that day, even rate a second look. one of former Twins great The price for beer rivals the Zoilo Versalles.

Metrodome price of $5.50 per What a thrill it was to spot bottle, $4.50 for a glass on tap. a familiar face in the crowds Nancy The pleasure of being at the of over 7,000 the first day and Jappe game on what the Twins pro6,000 the second day. moted as Bobblehead Day Darlene Hallberg and her March 6 came when the husband, Don, from Voyager announcer gave current temperatures - Village have worked for the Minnesota 71 degrees in Fort Myers - 14 degrees in Twins organization during March for Minneapolis. the past four years, making sure people Boof Bonzer was the pitcher for that find their seats and answering general first game, followed by regulars Juan questions. Some of you may recall, as I Rincon, Jesse Crain and Joe Nathan. did, that Darlene sent pictures describThey held up the pitching status during ing that experience to the Leader a few the brief times they were on the field; years ago. but when other pitchers came up for Thanks to +50 SPF sunscreen, we their chance on the mound, the scoring were protected from a scorching during picture changed dramatically. the second day's game, on what the My personal favorite, Justin Morneau, was at his first-base post at the beginning of the game, but didn't do very well - a walk his first time up, two strikeouts the next two times at bat, and he was out for the day.

Our seats for that day were high up under the shadow of the bleacher roof.

We were protected from the sun and had a good view of the action for $19 a seat, but much preferred the next day's game seats, in Section 103 with chairs to Darlene Hallberg (L) from sit on right above the first-base line.

Voyager Village and Nancy Jappe My camera was ready to catch a closeat a Minnesota Twins spring baseup of Morneau in action. ball game. Hallberg and her husUnfortunately, he wasn't out in the field band, Don, work for the Twins or in the batting order at all the second every March, making sure that day. people attending the games can I'm waiting for the chance to get a easily find their seats.

Time for outdoor baseball...in Florida, that is

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arch 2007 - sunny skies, warm temperatures, green grass, buds on trees and bushes and outdoor baseball - what more could any Minnesota Twins fan ask!

Not a dream, even though it sounds like a dream. Time for Twins spring training camp in Florida, and we were there.

Hammond Field in Fort Myers was only about 80 miles from our winter vacation destination south of Tampa, so a two-day excursion to see the Twins in action wasn't out of the question. We started to get in the mood when e-mail messages came in during January, telling us that spring training tickets were now available. “We don't need to get them ahead of time,” we thought, picturing a casual setup where we could get $10 or $12 tickets at the gate to see a game played on the outdoor field.

Sorry, folks, that's not the way it is.

Along the way, we heard that the game against the New York Yankees was a sellout, and we began to worry about the possibility of getting tickets. We got on the Twins Web site on the Internet and were shocked to find out that the prices for spring training seats were the same as for any game played in the Metrodome.

Sure, they did have some $10 tickets, but those only entitled you to a spot on the grass at the far end of the field. You had to bring your own lawn chair or blanket, plus binoculars to get a decent view of what was going on.

This is big business, even for a training game, and we ended up paying $95 for two people to see two games plus

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

Twins called Seniors Day (we never could figure out why because no special discounts or promotions were given out). Our seats were in the lower box, right in the path of the hot sun rays, and we were there for about four hours. The gift shop at Hammond Field, in addition to all the higherpriced Twins merchandise, sold a small container of +50 SPF for $6, the real bargain of the day.

It was quite an experience to be watching baseball again, a sure sign that spring wasn't far away. Even though the Twins lost both games we saw, we knew that this was just a training exercise, with prospective players showing off their stuff, or not showing it, to see whether they could make the team beginning around the first of April. Hopefully, it isn't an indication of a season to come, although it was pretty obvious that the Twins need to concentrate on getting more hits per game.

We had made an Internet reservation for a motel for the night ahead of time, passing up the use of Florida discount tickets found in many booklets made readily available to tourists. Those discount tickets can only be used when personally presenting them at the desk when you check in for a stay. Rather than take a chance of not getting a place to sleep for the night, we made a reservation at a Days Inn. The person making the reservation said the motel was just five minutes from the ballpark.

It turned out that the desk clerk was referring to the Boston Red Sox training camp in North Fort Myers, quite a long freeway jaunt from the Twins park in south Fort Myers. Oh well, vacations are supposed to be all about new experiences, aren't they?

n e w s p a p e r

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

L e a d e r F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r TIF district has strings attached The present town board of the township of Daniels is proposing to form a TIF district in a portion of the township.

TIF districts have been used for many years in villages and cities, mostly in "blighted" areas. The law was changed in 2004 to include townships. Only one, so far, with full-time jobs, is a meat packing plant.

Their plan is to run a sewer line west from Siren Village more than three miles to form what would amount to a new village of three hundred homes plus clubhouse for the golf course and other business developments. Included in this would be purchasing part ownership in Siren's wastewater plant. Does Daniels Township want that responsibility?

A TIF district is a developer's tool; most of his property taxes are returned to him to pay off the cost of the development. When all of those costs are paid, the town collects the property taxes.

This may take from 16 to 25 years and can be extended and expanded. Much of the development must be finished just to pay the interest on several million dollars.

Common sense, that most town residents possess, plainly shows this project has little value to the town of Daniels.

The present town board fails to recognize these facts. The proposed new village, 300 homes, estimated 600 people would naturally have costs associated with other villages, but more tightly packed. Ambulance, fire protection, police department, and more would have to be provided. Does anyone in the township want to pay more taxes to provided these services?

The state mandated long-range plan concerning quality of life was prepared by town residents and the town board about five years ago. A main comment was "We like it here." No one suggested we were a "blighted" area. The present town board has no regard for this plan.

Every year we see nice new homes built, with lawns, in tasteful locations, with no provision for garish urban development.

The town of Daniels cannot afford the risk of liability to the town for this TIF proposal.

Daniels voters recognized the need for a new board and have nominated the following: Dan Peterson, chairman Tim Tjader, supervisor Ed Fisher, supervisor Will you vote April 3. These are good candidates that are willing to listen to voters and understand the effects of this Tif proposal.

Vernon Peterson Siren

Town election On Tuesday, April 3, the town of Daniels will hold elections for town board members. It's time, in my view, to elect new members to at least two of the three voting positions - Chairman Walter Sellant should be replaced by Dan Peterson and Supervisor Jim Engelhart should be replaced by Tim Tjader.

This board has shown complete disrespect and disregard for the wishes of the citizens of Daniels. At the annual town meeting in April of 2006, the current board seemed determined to sell the existing town hall, now on the Historical Register, and build a new one. A majority of the more than 65 citizens of Daniels who were present at that meeting voiced concerns or opposition to this plan. Former chairman Vernon

Peterson moved that the board place the issue before the voters of Daniels by referendum at the elections in November.

That motion was passed with only two dissenting votes.

But this didn't sit well with the board, so they found a lawyer for the Towns Association in Madison who gave them an opinion that the vote wasn't binding on the board. Thus, they ignored the expressed wishes of the citizens they were elected to serve and no referendum was held.

Now we are faced with whether or not to approve a Tax Increment Financing District in Daniels to support development of an expanded golf course and up to 300 new homes. The members of the board signed a letter of support that was sent to the Burnett County Zoning Commission, despite the fact that this development is inconsistent with the long-range plan for development in Daniels approved by its citizens in 2000.

Once again, this board has shown complete disregard and disrespect for the citizens of Daniels. Since they paid no attention to our wishes regarding the town hall referendum last year, and have already disregarded the town's long-range plan by supporting the development proposal, should any citizen of Daniels have faith that they will listen to us as consideration of the TIF district moves forward?

Clearly the answer is no. As the old saying goes, it's time to vote 'em out.

Boyd Sutton Siren (Daniels)

Supreme Court

When citizens of Wisconsin go to the polls on April 3 to select a Supreme Court Justice, they will be facing an interesting choice.

The Wisconsin State Journal has reported that candidate Annette Ziegler, in the Madison paper's words, “failed to disclose a conflict of interest in at least four cases over which she presided as a circuit judge in the last year.�

This tells me that Ziegler is not qualified to serve; and should be rejected in her bid for the highest court in the state.

It is common knowledge that a judge should have recused (excuse) himself or herself when they are asked to rule in cases that are clearly a conflict of interest.

Fortunately, the citizens have another choice. Linda Clifford is an experienced, honest and well-versed person with common-sense views. She is endorsed by former Gov. Lee Dreyfus (Republican), and former Chief Justices, Nathan Hefferman and Roland Day. She has bipartisan support.

Linda Clifford is clearly the only sensible choice. Please join me in voting for Linda Clifford.

Paul Sexton Siren

Clifford

Who would you vote for the Wisconsin Supreme Court?

One candidate is a sitting judge who did not recuse herself when confronted with a conflict of interest situation. This happened on several occasions. This is a blatant violation of Supreme Court laws governing judicial ethics.

The other candidate has 32 years of quality legal experience serving as a prosecutor and assistant attorney general with the Department of Justice and in private practice. She has argued cases before the Supreme Court.

The two candidates referred to are Annette Ziegler and Linda Clifford.

Linda Clifford will be a Supreme

Court Justice that Wisconsin families can count on.

She understands the need for the Supreme Court to stand up for the rights of consumers and working people. She has the experience, integrity and the independence we need in our next Supreme Court Justice.

I hope you join me April 3 in voting for Linda Clifford.

Mel and Steve Perner Grantsburg

Community involvement

This past Saturday, the community of Luck celebrated "halftime" in the planning and fundraising for the new Luck Library and Museum. It was a great event but, more importantly, it served as further testimony to the efforts of the committee towards keeping the community involved and connected to the project.

There have been many people involved, but a few have been exceptional, including Tam Howie, Marty Messar and Chuck and Carol Adleman.

One of the things we enjoy about Luck is how the residents pull together for the community, and this project has been a fine example.

Bill Stirrat Luck

Marriage

Nearly each week headlining Town Talk/Country Chatter is an enchanted new engagement announcement. And elsewhere, nearly each week, are marriage and divorce listings, children or no. A lamentable reality (the latter) published here, in our families, among our friends. Still, many married couples (like the recently Front-Paged Lute and Mayme Pettis, (72 Years Married?) are working and loving and staying together, hallelujah. So take heart.

For the engaged pairs, then, I'd like to briefly share some safeguards and wisdom (as one on the outside, who has been quietly studying marriage for years). 1. There is much wisdom to be gleaned from older married couples who've weathered and adored each other, and in this, have learned covenantal love. They've earned their stripes and the right to give advice.

Listen to them. Wear their sayings on your foreheads and left arms as remembrances. All of the 50-plus-year anniversary announcements printed here, besides being adorable, are surely redeeming? I clip and keep them. 2.

After The Question has been asked, you ought to continue (before hitching) to ask yourself: have I chosen wisely?

Because if you don't trust the one you're about to commit your life to (commitment being a tenet of marriage) woe is you. Invite the community around you (if they haven't already over invited themselves) to guide you in your decision, including premarital counselors, to help reveal unrevealed things about each other, for, in a multitude of counselors there is safety (Proverbs 11.14).? 3.

Some of the best marriages I've seen are couples who share a passion, music, food, fishing, something they love to do, and love to do together. This, of course, is not essential but compatibility in some areas, to further bond you as friends, ought to factor into your lifelong choice. 4. Much wisdom is found in God's Word (the ultimate resource) for us. I believe in a God who loves us passionately and desires for us to grow faithfully in love. That said, I realize that just as many of us Christians are screwing up and pulling the plug on marriage. Which is utterly dishearten-

ing and I really don't know what to say, except that our culture, bombing us day and night with impurity, impurity, impurity, is a hard one to live in and many don't have the moral fortitude or iron-willed Determination to stand.

Please prove us (single ladies and gents, and your chosen ones) wrong. At the end of your life, how great to have been faithful to one husband? One wife? 5.

Despite Save the Date cards and/or wedding invitations sent out, churches booked, banquet halls booked, love declared, the perfect dress found and excitement all around, if you lack peace about this all-important decision, you still have time to change your mind (a woman and a man's pregative) before declaring, I do.

Not to rain on your upcoming parades or anything. I wish all of you newly engaged, and yet to be engaged couples bright and beautiful futures beyond your imaginations, if this is the good and right decision for you. And good for you for bravely choosing to enter into the good and noble occupation of marriage.

"The only success I had in anything was in my marriage." - Lute Pettis Josie Fisk St. Croix Falls

Vote for change

I believe there is a need for change in the town board of Daniels Township.

Your vote on April 3 could do this.

We don't need a new town hall. We don't need a tax district for the golf course. We do need the town to adopt village powers and county zoning to keep big developers in check.

A vote on April 10, 7 p.m., at the town hall can give the town board these powers. Please vote on April 3 and April 10.

Your vote does count.

Edward Fisher Daniels Township

Swan story

Kudos to Gary King for a superb story on Marge Gibson, the trumpeter swan, and lead poisoning! Outstanding job!

And kudos to the Leader for publishing it. You have demonstrated true excellence by printing this story.

William P. Mueller

MCAMMP Project Coordinator Issues Committee Chair Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative Conservation Chair Wisconsin Society for Ornithology

Milwaukee

Curves

We would like to applaud the Leader on featuring local businesses and, in particular, the feature on Curves (Feb. 7). Curves is a fantastic resource in our community.

Curves can actually help save money on health care costs. It is a vital weapon in our community to help fight obesity, heart disease, lower cholesterol and high blood pressure, and help develop overall fitness. It is a fun place where gals get together to laugh and exercise.

It is a place where we learn to borrow will power from our friends.

We would like to invite women of all ages (16-90+) in the surrounding communities of Frederic to join us at Curves for a positive half-hour of physical and emotional health. Come join us at Curves today. Take advantage of one of the many resources of our community.

Cora Dversdall Sylvia Hanson Luck and Frederic

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

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

As caring individuals who have dedicated our lives to helping children, we have come together in a common mission through Northwest Counseling and Guidance Clinic.

We have been astonished and dismayed by the portrayal of our work and our organization. We continue to grieve this tragedy and our hearts are saddened by the loss of Angie. At the same time, we persist in our work, providing services to a population that is too often overlooked, misunderstood and avoided.

In the mental health field, we take the protection of our clients' confidentiality very seriously. That responsibility has left us defenseless and silent which has resulted in many inaccurate perceptions of us, the work we do, and the values our agency holds. We have watched and read as others have consistently relayed inaccurate information, misrepresented our field, and failed to allow us any voice.

People who know us know we strive to make our programs better. We truly appreciate the many supporters of Northwest that have held fast to the staff they know us to be, as opposed to the agency inaccurately portrayed in multiple media reports.

Our agency has provided the media and others with information that they Since have consistently ignored.

Angie's tragic death, we have made many changes and improvements to our programs and we have been up front with the media and others about those efforts. We do not expect accolades for our changes; however, the omission of this information skews the perceptions of our agency's response to this tragedy, and it portrays us as irresponsible, uncaring and insincere.

We want you to know the truth.

Advocacy groups have condemned the type of hold used in this incident. The phrase “choke hold” has been used in many media reports. This was not a “choke hold” and that accusation is deplorable and groundless. The type of hold we were trained to use at Northwest was not unique to our agency and is accepted by state statutes.

We had annual training and our policies were approved by the state.

We have been trained in a new procedure that eliminates the position used in this incident yet still allows us to protect children who seek to harm themselves or others. These holds are not a pleasant part of our work. However, we know some children will go to surprising lengths to hurt themselves or others, and so we accept the responsibility of doing our best to keep them safe.

Several media reports suggest that Northwest has been unwilling to make changes and cooperate with state agencies. We know otherwise. In fact, all of us are engaged in the improvements including and far beyond the corrective actions required by the state.

Advocacy for people with mental health issues is a critical need in a world that often ignores and stigmatizes. We have been loudly criticized by advocacy groups who have chosen to ignore factual information provided to them by our agency. They have perpetuated misrepresentations of our agency with the aim of closing facilities whose programs have been sought out by the communities they serve. We are frustrated that they have continued to criticize our agency while failing to acknowledge certain facts of the case and our continuing changes. If they truly want to help children and families facing mental illness, we challenge them to move past inaccurate criticisms and move on with us in pursuit of solutions to the problems facing state mental

health systems as a whole. We continue to believe that we have much to offer in these efforts.

This experience has led us to read media reports with far greater caution and scrutiny. We remain hopeful that our true character shines through in the commitments we have made and in the services we continue to provide.

Dedicated Northwest Counseling and Guidance Clinic Day Treatment staff Ray Alger, Thorp Tanya Amos, Wisconsin Rapids Andrea Balke, Stevens Point Rick Berglund, Grantsburg Amy Brehm, Wisconsin Rapids Sara Busch, Siren Jill Chaffee, Frederic Jocelyn Deavers, Chippewa Falls Anjie Dreiling, South Range Chad Eggert, Amery Rex Erickson, Frederic Sheri Gatten, Amery Craig Geissler, Eau Claire Brad Geoltz, Osseo Ashley Groshek, Menomonie Linda Heath, Wisconsin Rapids Barbara Hebert, Eau Claire Curtis Hubble, Frederic Kristi King-Nelson, Green Bay Linda Katzner, Deer Park Lori Kuhlka, Pittsville Nicole Lamb, Ellsworth Carey Lillehaug, Frederic Michele Locher, Stevens Point Timothy McIntyre, Webster Amy Marthaler, Wausau Jennifer Miroslaw, Stone Lake Andrew Nelson, Stevens Point Ben Nelson, Frederic Sarah Nelson, Stevens Point Tony Noll, Wisconsin Rapids Steve Nowaskey, Ridgeland Diane Olson, Glenwood City Jim Pagel, Wabasha, Minn.

Mike Pagel, Red Wing, Minn.

Ann Risley, Webster Angela Ruppe, Menomonie Alexis Scanlon, New Richmond Suzanne Schradle, Menomonie April Stendahl, Menomonie Kim Stensland, Hammond Joshua Stevenson, Turtle Lake Iris Ostenson, Rice Lake Stephen Webster, Plover Doreeen Wehmas, Clear Lake Ed Wehmas, Clear Lake George Winter, Menomonie Anne Wollan, Amery

Music to your ears

This coming Sunday afternoon (March 25) at 4 p.m. the Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra will perform a two-hour cocncert at Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Croix Falls. A meal will be served following the concert.

The Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra is a group of musicians who use their love of music to benefit local food shelves all over Minnesota nad Wisconsin. There is no charge for the concert or the meal but a freewill offering will be collected with 100 percent of the proceeds going to our local St. Croix Falls food shelf. With the generous support of the guests who attend, the chorus has raised about $1,000 a year for the past several years.

Redeemer Lutheran Church is a group of Christians who believe it is our highest calling to proclaim God's message of sin and grace; to reach out to all people with love in Jesus Christ. We invite everyone to come and enjoy the Woodbury Chorus and to come visit our church any time.

Donald Benson Taylors Falls

On behalf of the students

On behalf of many of the students in the Webster eighth-grade class, I, Allison Rydel Daniels, write this letter in support of Webster teacher, Sean Oswald. We feel it's not fair that Mr. Oswald's teacher contract will not be renewed.

Mr. Oswald was a great coach, teacher and friend. As a coach for basketball, he gave us a lot of support and really showed it. During games he would get really excited and sometimes yell. He yelled at us to encourage us, because he had seen us play better. He didn't yell at us because he was being too hard on us.

Many of us understood that.

Because he knew our strengths and weaknesses as individual players and as a team, he would teach us something new and something fun at every practice. It was great coaching like this that helped us get us far in our games. He kept us motivated all the time and kept us going as a team throughout our games.

As a teacher, he was great. I had him as a substitute in sixth-grade and he explained things really well. He was serious about our work, but at the same time he was fun. He made learning fun.

A lot of his current students told me the same thing.

Mr. Oswald became a friend, too. He is an all-around nice guy. Our whole basketball team was closer this season than we've ever been and Mr. Oswald played a big part in that. He's a really easy person to talk to and he always listened to us no matter what we had to say.

In my opinion, an opinion I know many other students share, he should've been given a chance. How could they let him go when they, themselves, haven't experienced his teaching? I know that we are just kids to most people, but we really like Mr. Oswald. To many students he is their favorite teacher. To many of us it is like taking away a best friend.

I want everyone to know who doesn't know already that many signs in support of Mr. Oswald have been put up around the school. There have been lots of letters written on his behalf and many students have signed petitions protesting this nonrenewal. It matters most to us, the students, and we hope that even though our opinion doesn't make a difference to the school board, we hope, I hope, it makes a difference to Mr. Oswald.

Mr. Oswald, you will be very, very missed.

Allison Rydel Daniels Webster eighth-grade student Daughter of Jim and Jeanne Daniels Webster

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

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

Candidate

My name is Daniel Peterson. I am a fourth-generation dairy farmer in Daniels Township. I was nominated to run for Daniels Town Chairman and have decided to run based upon the lack of leadership and decision making over the last two years.

Some of the recent debates and decisions over the proposed new Daniels Town Hall, golf course development, and roads have many in the community feeling either left out of the decision making or completely ignored. The amount of work and time it takes to properly understand and explain to the public all the facts and effects on our community seems to be lacking.

As Daniels Town Chairman I will do my best to understand all the facts and present them to the community so all will be well-informed. The decision made will be the most beneficial to all township citizens.

I ask for your vote.

Daniel Peterson Siren

Band-Aid

Until the 110th Congress addresses inequities in our tax system, we'll continue to further plunge into the abyss of what is becoming irreversible national debt. It appears that this Congress is merely poised to put a Band-Aid on a hemorrhage.

Tax-avoidance schemes are growing faster than the IRS' ability to crack down on them.

Billions of tax dollars are lost through outsourcing of jobs to other countries.

Companies leaving the United States each year is accelerating at an alarming rate. The loss in tax revenue is becoming almost incalculable -- exacerbated by enormous tax cuts for the wealthiest of Americans.

In a December 2003 report, the IRS had identified over 400,000 taxpayers involved in tax-evasion strategies that are likely illegal. Earlier that year, the IRS had estimated the number at 131,000. It is clear that the IRS (and Congress) doesn't have a clue as to how much revenue is being lost -- but it is enormous. Now, three years later, the problem is only getting worse.

The IRS Tax Code has become so incomprehensible that virtually nobody can understand it, leaving it subject to broad interpretation.

The IRS Tax Code needs to be completely revamped. Tax loopholes for special interests must be eliminated.

Taxes on unearned income should have been increased -- not decreased.

What has the Bush administration done to solve the problem? They have declared that outsourcing of jobs is good for America, tax cuts will reduce the deficit, and have slashed in half the number of IRS auditors charged with auditing tax reports on multimilliondollar incomes!

Paul G. Jaehnert Vadnais Heights, Minn.

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper.

Since 1933.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

L e a d e r Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Allah in Muslim religion It is surprising that Pastor Merrill Olson in his letter titled “Entering Heaven” makes statements refuting the core of Islamic beliefs, yet he shares none of his sources with the audience.

His premise that the God of Islam is the moon god worshiped by the Arabs is simply incorrect and is founded more on gossip rather than facts.

There are four major misstatements in Pastor Olson's letter. I would like to address three of them: First, the word Allah as worshiped by the Muslims is the moon god of the pre-Islamic Arabian Peninsula. It is true that the people of Levant worshiped many moon gods. As for the etymology of the word Allah, it is of Northwest Semitic origin, and derived from the words 'al' and 'ilah' meaning 'the' and 'god'.

The word Allah therefore is the same as the word god in English, where it can refer to any one of the many gods, according to beliefs of the person using the word. In fact, in the Arab world the word Allah has always been used and continues to be used by the Christians and Jews to refer to their god. As for the statue of the moon god in Makah, Mohammed, upon conquering Makah without the use of any military force, destroyed every single statue, the largest of which was that of Hubal (The History of Prophets and Kings 1:157).

This fact is documented in numerous historical texts of the time of Mohammed.

The Catholic encyclopedia says that Allah is a compound word from the article, 'al, and ilah, divinity, and signifies "the god" par excellence. This form of the divine name is in itself a sure proof that ilah was at one time an appellative, common to all the local and tribal gods. Gradually, with the addition of the article, it was restricted to one of them who took precedence of the others; finally, with the triumph of monotheism, He was recognized as the only true God. In one form or another this Hebrew root occurs in all Semitic languages as a designation of the Divinity.

Before the time of Mohammed, owing to their contact with Jews and Christians, the Arabs were generally monotheists. The notion of Allah in Arabic theology is substantially the same as that of God among the Jews, and also among the Christians, with the exception of the Trinity, which is positively excluded in the Koran, cxii: "Say God, is one God, the eternal God, he begetteth not, neither is he begotten and there is not any one like unto him." Let it be noted that although Allah is an Arabic term, it is used by all Moslems, whatever be their language, as the name of God. As explained in the Encyclopedia of Orient, Allah is an Arabic word for "God", used in Islam and Christianity.

The term "Allah" comes from the Arabic "al-Lah", that can be translated with "the God." In pre-Islamic times, in the polytheistic religion of Mecca, there was a god that was called by this name.

Al-Lah was probably considered as the highest god, but not an acting power, and therefore rarely focused on in rituals. While Islam rejects the other deities, al-Lah is described as the one eternal, omnipotent God. "Allah" is therefore not a proper name, and also Arabic Christians use "Allah" in their Arabic Bible. In Islam there are 99 names of God, but these are also not to be considered as proper names. to Please refer http://www.answers.com/topic/allah Secondly, the question of a loving God can be answered by directly look-

ing at a number of passages of the Quran. Verses 60:8, 49:009, 19:96, 9:108, 3:159 are only but a small sample of the verses that talk about vast love that God has for the people that put their faith in him. Moreover, according to the teachings of Islam, no Prophet of God is above or below another, they are merely the messengers that carry the word of God. Thirdly the presence of crescent and star on all flags of Muslim countries become common during Ottomon Empire when the Turks conquered Constantinople (Istanbul) in 1453, they adopted the city's existing flag and symbol. The early Muslim community never had a symbol on their flags. You can get more information from http://islam.about.com/library/week ly/aa060401a.htm Lastly, Pastor Olson claims that the reason “we can't compete with the Islamic suicide bomber in Iraq and other places, is the promotion of suicide terrorism.” His lack of Islamic knowledge shows when he says that Muslims are promised virgins and great rewards in heaven to commit a suicide attack. In reality, however, numerous fatwas have been released by respected Muslim scholars that say that committing suicide is a sin in Islam, as it is in Christianity.

Mohammed said, “Indeed, whoever (intentionally) kills himself, then certainly he will be punished in the Fire of Hell, wherein he shall dwell forever” (Bukaaree, 5778 and Muslim 109 and 110). If Pastor Olson looked at Surah Al-Madinah Verse 32 he would learn that not only is it against the teachings of Islam to commit suicide, but it is also against the teachings of Islam to kill an innocent person.

The idea of this letter is just to present facts, so that facts can be separated from fiction. I hope this will help people in having better understanding of Islam.

Shahid Mian Luck The full version of this letter can be found on our Web site at www.theleader.net

Experience matters

We will soon have the opportunity to vote for a new Wisconsin Supreme Court justice.

In today's changing world of complex legal decisions, Judge Annette Ziegler, from West Bend, is the only Supreme Court candidate with judicial experience. She has been a sitting judge for nearly a decade.

Prior to her service on the bench, Judge Ziegler was a prosecutor and an attorney in private practice.

Judge Ziegler believes the court's duty is not to determine what the law should be or to negate laws in order to arrive at a desired outcome. The role of the Supreme Court is to interpret the spirit and the letter of the law and to apply that law consistently, fairly, and impartially. A Supreme Court justice must not legislate from the bench.

Judge Ziegler understands the importance of community involvement. She grew up working in a family owned hardware store. As a wife and mother, she is concerned about quality of life issues, from safe neighborhoods and clean lakes, to education and health care.

Vote for someone that is experienced, independent and fair. Vote April 3 for Judge Annette Ziegler for Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Pat Peterson Dresser

F O R U M A r e a N e w s

Judge throws out confession BARRON - The confession that Sheriff Tom Richie extracted from former register of deeds Shawn Hanson was not given voluntarily, so it must be thrown out and not considered at trial, Judge Eugene Harrington ruled March 8. Hanson was charged back on Dec. 5, 2005, with felony theft in a business setting and felony misconduct in public office. Those charges came four days after Hanson had come to the Barron County Justice Center at Richie's request to discuss the investigation into missing funds from the register of deeds office. Both sides in the subsequent legal battle have been waiting since the end of 2006 for Harrington to make his ruling on whether Hanson's comments - written and spoken - during that December 2005 interview with law enforcement were permissible in court.

In his decision to throw out the material, which is alleged to contain Hanson's confession to embezzling public funds, Harrington outlined the facts of the case.

The judge noted that investigators had interviewed Hanson twice before the Dec. 1, 2005, meeting, but no evidence or statements implicating Hanson's guilt had turned up. The then register of deeds accepted the sheriff's invitation for a meeting, and the two spoke at the justice center about the investigation. Harrington gave several examples, in his decision, of what could be interpreted as attempts to coerce a confession from Hanson, including that the sheriff didn't inform Hanson of her Miranda rights, the interview room suggested an informal environment (complete with a couch, loveseat and coffee table), the sheriff avoided answering Hanson's questions about whether she needed an attorney present and numerous times where Richie appealed to their friendship. Hanson had almost immediately asked the sheriff whether she needed an attorney when the Dec. 1, 2005, interview took place, but Richie had said that he wanted to talk with Hanson "more as a friend right now," according to the judge's account. In the next 35 minutes of the interview, the sheriff appeals to their friendship at least eight times, repeatedly suggests that penalties for the embezzlement would increase if the attorney general's office got involved, mentions on seven occasions other stresses in Hanson's life at the time (her impending divorce, her OWI arrest and personal finances) and appeals to her religious faith. In his decision, Harrington states that Hanson wasn't in custody, so Miranda safeguards don't apply. But statements still must be made voluntarily and not coerced. - Barron News-Shield St. Croix County jail inmate dies HUDSON - On Sunday, March 18, at 3:05 p.m. Brandon Lee Hessler, age 28, New Richmond, was pronounced dead at the Hudson Hospital. Hessler was an inmate at the St. Croix County Jail, Hudson. Hessler had been arrested by New Richmond Police for bail jumping and resisting arrest on March 15, and transported to the St. Croix County Jail. On March 16, he was unable to appear in court and was court ordered to remain in custody and appear on March 19. Hessler had been placed on a 15-minute watch by jail medical personnel. On Sunday at 2:30 p.m., jail staff, while conducting the inmate watch, noticed that he was unresponsive. Jail staff performed CPR until the arrival of the Hudson Ambulance personnel who then took over life-saving efforts. Hessler was transported to the Hudson Hospital where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday, March 19, to assist in determining cause of death. The Dunn County Sheriff's Office, Menomonie, and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections will be reviewing this death. - New Richmond News

Fo l l o w t h e L e a d e r Climate change on Clam Falls Drive The climate is changing in Wisconsin. Great! In the past it has been too d—- cold anyway.

I am converting my deer food plots to Palm tree stands to get a jump on the impending climate change.

There is approximately a 50 foot difference in elevation between my house and my mail box. At times the tempervaries about 2-degrees ature Fahrenheit between the two locations.

The obvious resolution to this temperature variance is to have Bob Carlson and Gary Gjonnes flatten my 150 acres so the temperature is the same throughout the property.

Since the temperature is cooler in the woods during the summer, I can either cut the forest down or grow trees everywhere to equilibrate the temperature.

The temperature of the earth may have gone up by .7 (seven tenths) of one degree in the last 100 years, so you can see my concern about the temperature variance on my property.

I am really concerned about the flatulence (this means farting for you less literate left of right) produced by the deer. Flatulence produces methane (natural gas) which is a greater contributor to climate change than carbon dioxide. If methane keeps the temper-

ature up, I’m going to feed the deer cabbage and beans until the little suckers look like four legged dirigibles.

Carbon dioxide is not a bad gas.

Carbon dioxide is necessary for photosynthesis to take place. Without photosynthesis there would be no oxygen.

Here’s the solutions: Forget about bio-fuels. The ethanol plants are depleting the ground water.

You won’t be able to afford beef, pork or chickens and the ethanol will only take you 2/3 the distance of gas. I also don’t have any plans to by a new E-85 compatible vehicle.

Drill in ANWR. The proposed foot print is 3.13 sq. miles (2000 acres) out of approximately 19,000,000 acres (about the size of South Carolina).

Drill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Produce many new nuclear power plants.

Promote Tar Sand and Oil Shale development.

Accelerate fuel cell (hydrogen reactor) research.

Don’t worry about climate changeit’s the SUN! Oh Boyd, I have seen more people at an accordion recital than you had at “An Inconvenient Truth” This may be a message, you think?

Brooke Biedinger Frederic

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Department of redundancy department?

Commission debates how many public meetings are enough

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–When it comes to the exchange of public land to private landowners, how many meetings are necessary for the public to be well informed about such transactions? That was a question brought to the plan commission for St. Croix Falls by Mayor Brad Foss March 19. Foss pre-empted his question with an example of the White Pine Park land transfer that was not made public under previous administration, to which he described as a travesty indicating several persons resigned from their posts following such a transfer.

Foss stated that when the city has the opportunity of transferring public land to private landowners, should there be a process for transferring to make sure public input is noted and that all transfers follow the same procedure?

His question was met with a mixed response by plan commission members.

Some felt a public meeting should be held in addition to the plan commission meeting and city council meetings.

Others felt two meetings were sufficient.

Commissioner and city councilman Jon Cermin stated, “It seems to me to be another encumbrance. We already have that power. We already have public meetings so it’s adding another layer of government or adding public meetings to public meetings. It’s sort of the department of redundancy department.

I have confidence in our current administration that that type of activity [White Pine Park transfer] will not take place again.”

Cermin stated that people who are concerned do attend the meetings, the press is present to report the meetings and that people who do care, should read the papers and attend the meetings. He stated that he felt if another public meeting was added the same people who come to the planning commission and the city council meetings would be the ones to show up and he

thought that government was doing its job with the elected and appointed officials carrying out the public meetings.

The topic related to other city property including the proposed library location, fire hall, eco-village, Simonwoods property. “What if a landowner neighboring Simonwoods wants to buy a piece of that to add to their property, what is the procedure for a land transfer?” asked Foss. “What benefit is there for transferring city property, such as the eco-village to Partners and Sirny, for example? I don’t know what the process should be, that’s why I’m throwing it out there.”

The topic also related to an agenda item, the Mark Olmstead development proposal for the condo/retail on Main Street, in which the city would be deeding city park land for the project to go through as planned.

City administrator Ed Emerson stated that perhaps the city needs to establish criteria for a land transfer, such as “there should be some public benefit,” he said. He noted that the Olmstead transfer would have public benefit, but noted with no disrespect to Mr. Olmstead that the city was burned in the sale of the fire hall purchase.

Emerson said that the fire hall was sold for $130,000 on a “promise” which never came to fruition and now the building is for sale for about $389,000 in which that property owner made a profit at the city’s expense in excess of $250,000. He felt that some stipulations or criteria should be in place in the event plans fall through so the city does not have a similar outcome.

Several items were listed on the agenda regarding the Olmstead project including: a. deeding of city parkland, b. vacating of city right of way, c. traffic safety, d. emergency access, e. interior detail, f. driveway and parking stall size, and g. seepage area.

The first two were the main topic of discussion. Commissioner Warren White felt those two items should go forward to the council with conditions.

Mayor Foss thought perhaps Cedar Corp, Olmstead, the city attorney, Xcel Energy and the city administrator should meet as an entity to solve

unknowns before the plan commission looks at the complete package to forward to the council.

Cermin agreed with White that the council should have the recommendation from the plan commission and Mr. Olmstead would work through the conditions with Xcel and the council to move the process forward. Both were not in favor of an additional meeting.

Commissioner Michael Severson said he agreed that the matter should go to the council, but was cautious because of past experience that the council, may defer the issue back to the plan commission for clarification.

Commissioner Donald Puffer and commissioner John Gyllen felt the questions should be knocked out before forwarding it to the council by holding a meeting with those above-mentioned entities.

Ed Kromrey, commissioner, said he didn’t know what to say at that point and was listening to the discussion.

The city attorney, Bill Thiel, said that the city does not have it from Xcel Energy that the right of way and the emergency access and deeding of parkland will be a done deal. He said with that unknown, the city could go forward with Olmstead and his development and find out later that Xcel may not cooperate, and the project has to take a different direction.

“I’m just the lawyer here,” he said.

“Xcel says they are offering a license permit but not an easement, whatever that means. There are unresolved issues such as the gate, path for fire/emergency vehicles, storm water drainage and the trail. There needs to be further deliniation of these issues before the commission recommends it to the council.”

Thiel also commented on the transfer or deeding of city parkland stating that the plan commission can not make a decision on that because the city council is the only body with the authority. The commission can only make a recommendation to the council. He said the city council then has to decide a few things: 1. Is it our desire to convey or lease property? 2. What is adequate compensation for property in the way

of money or value? 3. Are you [the city] willing to go along with that or will the developer have to shrink their project?

“Mr. Olmstead’s architect has done a good job, but you need issues resolved first,” Thiel added.

“My problem is we have on the agenda here an ordinance we are looking at creating for exactly what this guy is trying to do, have commercial space where people can live and work and we are holding him up,” Cermin said. “So on the one side we are trying to get an ordinance to encourage this type of development, but are putting up road blocks for this guy to do it.”

An architect from Blake & Associates spoke on behalf on Mr. Olmstead indicating that the purpose of the meeting, he thought, was to get specific information from the plan commission on what is needed for design principles to develop final plans and come back in April with them. He stated they were hoping to get feedback on the commission’s thoughts and it was their hope the city officials would have reviewed emergency issues and allow them to make the final plan accordingly, knowing there are contingencies.

White said he felt that no matter how many of the items they forward to the council, they would all have conditions attached to them when they go to the council. The matter at hand, according to White, was to get the process moving on some level to the council. The commission forwarded items a. and b. (deeding of city parkland and vacating city right of way) to the council and tabled the remaining issues to gather more information.

In other business, the commission reviewed the proposal to recreate the ordinance for and arts, culture and historic district (see separate story) which will be at the April 9 council meeting with a public hearing.

•The commission also scheduled a public hearing for the April 16 plan commission meeting to discuss a zoning change map amendment identifying city conservancy and other city-owned lands.

Menards grand opening week March 24-April 1 CROIX FALLS–Beginning ST. Saturday, March 24, Menards in St. Croix Falls will be hosting a special nine-day Grand Opening Celebration at their new Mega Store, located at 1285 208th Street. (Just east of St. Croix Falls on Hwy. 8) The celebration will include great deals on merchandise, prize giveaways, in-store demonstrations, and celebrity appearances.

The following events are planned by Menards.

Celebrity appearances Bert Blyleven – Minnesota Twins pitching great Monday, March 26, 6-8 p.m. Born in the Netherlands, Bert Blyleven became the American League Rookie Pitcher of the Year in 1970.

Known for the premier curveball of his era, he pitched a no-hitter against the California Angels on Sept. 22, 1977.

Blyleven maintained a 3:1 strikeout-towalk ratio while passing the 3,000 strikeout mark in 1986. In 1987, he recorded pitching victories while helping the Twins become ALCS and World Series Champions. Bert Blyleven is currently a Twins Television Network broadcaster.

Desmond Howard – Green Bay Packers Super Bowl MVP, Wednesday, March 28, 6-8 p.m. The 1991 Heisman Trophy winner with the Michigan Wolverines, Desmond Howard was drafted by the Washington Redskins where he excelled as a punt and kickoff returner. His most notable season was

with the Green Bay Packers in 1996 whereby he led the NFL in nearly all special team categories. Howard’s record-setting performance earned him Super Bowl MVP honors, returning a kick-off for a touchdown to seal the victory for the Packers. In his 11 NFL seasons, Desmond Howard gained 12,155 total offensive yards.

Special appearances John Gage – Legendary chain saw sculptor, Saturday through Tuesday, March 24 – 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Want to see a real pro at work? Come and watch legendary chain saw artist, John Gage, make wood carvings from simple logs. Representing McCulloch chain saws, Gage is well-known throughout

the Midwest as a truly remarkable artist. Gage’s carvings will be available for public sale.

Members of the Minnesota Timberwolves Dance Team, Sunday, April 1, 1-2 p.m. Several members of the Minnesota Timberwolves Dance Team will be making a special visit to St. Croix Falls Menards on Sunday afternoon, April 1. Bring the entire family for this great photo opportunity. Dance team members will be greeting guests and signing autographs for everyone in attendance. –from Menards, Inc.

2007 Home & Business Expo this Saturday ST. CROIX FALLS–The St. Croix Falls High School gym is the place for the Home & Business Expo this Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This free public event will feature vendors from the community showcas-

ing their wares and giving informative demonstrations.

Lunch will be available and is being served the St. Croix Valley Senior Center.

Raffle tickets for a 2007 Yamaha Vino

Classic Scooter can be purchased the day of the event or in advance from St. Croix Falls Chamber of Commerce member businesses and the chamber office. The drawing for the scooter, donated by Larsen Auto and

www.the-leader.net

Motorsports, will take place at 4 p.m.

Raffle winner need not be present to win.

For more information contact the St. Croix Falls Chamber of Commerce at 715-483-3580. –from the Chamber

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Council to hold public hearing on ordinance for downtown ST. CROIX FALLS– On April 9 a public hearing will take place during the regular city council meeting. The hearing will be for public comment on an ordinance to re-create the general commercial district to an arts, cultural and historic district in downtown St. Croix Falls. The matter was reviewed by the city council March 12 and by the plan commission March 19. The next step is a public hearing before an ordinance could be considered for adoption.

Should the council pass the ordinance, Section 17.12 B-1 General Commercial District of the City Code shall be replaced in whole by the following: 17.21 B-1 General Commercial District. The B-1 District, encompassing the historic downtown area of the city of St. Croix Falls, is intended to provide an area for business and commercial needs of the city. The purpose of this district is to serve to provide a cultural center for the city of St. Croix Falls, and will contain a mix of uses to provide a lively street presence of shops, art galleries, performance space and restaurants, while allowing for the continuation of professional service centers.

including new and used clothing stores (d) Funeral parlors (e) Libraries (f) Parks (g) Bed & breakfast establishments (h) Hospitals (i) Visitor centers associated with the scenic St. Croix Riverway (j) Any other uses similar in character to the above with the permitted uses and the manufacture or treatment of products clearly incidental to the conduct of a retail business on the premises.

Tattoo Parlors and Adult Entertainment Establishments are specifically prohibited from the B-1 General Commercial, Arts, Culture and Historic District.

Permitted uses: (a) Post Offices (b) General business and commercial uses which do not generate noise, smoke or odors that would create a public or private nuisance. These uses generally include: 1. Banks, commercial or professional offices and telephone offices.

2. Hotels and motels.

3. Movie and performance theaters.

4. Personal service offices such as insurance, dental and the like.

5. Bus depots.

6. Restaurants and taverns.

7. Dwelling units above ground-floor commercial.

8. Uses customarily incidental to any of the above uses. . (c) Retail shops and businesses,

1. Permitted uses: In addition to the permitted uses identified above the following shall also be allowable uses within the B-1 General Commercial District:

Arts, Culture and Historic District: Purpose: •To promote and encourage art and cultural venues and events in downtown St. Croix Falls; •To enhance downtown’s uniqueness as a destination for local residents; •To promote and encourage cultural tourism •Support economic development and reinvestment

(a) Art galleries and studio spaces; (b) Café and bistros (c) Sculpture, pottery and metal smith shops; (d) Sound and vision production studios; (e) Alternative health care practitioners certified in such fields; (f) Photographer studios; (g) Space for actors, musicians, writers and dance troupes, including performance, studio or class space; (h) Art-related retail including frame shops and art supply stores; (i) Schools, both public and private,

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with a focus on instruction of the arts, provided that nothing herein shall limit the provision of secondary education requirements in an arts high school. (j) Antique shops (k) Interior and graphic designers (l) Jewelers (m) Fiber artists and crafts-persons (n) Uses similar in character to the above.

2. Conditional uses: (a) Wastewater treatment plant and city offices (b) Ground-floor Residential when associated with an arts-related use. (see sub. (3) below.) (c) Patio seating or on-street bistro tables when associated with a restaurant or beverage shop, so long as such use is terminated by 10 p.m., and so long as such use abides by restrictions as may be imposed when granting a conditional use.

3. Additional restrictions: Uses Permitted in the B-1 District are subject to the following conditions: (a) Dwelling units are not permitted below the second floor and business uses are not permitted above the second floor, except in those buildings or structures where dwelling units are not established. Dwelling units may be allowed on the ground floor if it is associated with a live-work project and contains all of the following: (1) The building street front remains retail oriented and is open on a regular and consistent basis to the general public and is at least 300 square feet; (2) The proposed living space is to be occupied by the operator/owner of the retail space and such living space is at least 700 square feet or at least 300 square feet per person, whichever is more; (3) That the proposed renovation is wholly or partially in keeping with the arts, culture and historic district permit-

ted uses and the retail component shall sell works primarily by the artist and regional area residents; (4) The proposed live-work space conforms to all state and local building and safety standards. (a) The general intent of this provision is to create an area where artists may live and work in the same space, and where the arts can flourish and serve to enhance the historic older downtown buildings and surrounding older neighborhoods. Such additional restrictions are allowed only as a conditional use and shall not detract, but rather enhance overall the vibrant retail nature of the historic downtown retail center. (b) All business establishments shall be retail or service establishments dealing directly with consumers. All goods produced on the premises shall be sold at retail on the premises where produced. ( c ) All business, servicing or processing, except for off-street parking or loading, shall be conducted within completely enclosed buildings.

4. Development standards: Within the B-1 District there shall be no minimum required standards or setbacks in order to provide flexibility in the redevelopment of the downtown area.

However, new buildings shall be subject to the off-street parking and loading requirements of sec. 17.20 of this chapter, where applicable. The maximum height shall comply with River Town provisions of NR118, that being 45 feet as measured from average ground elevation. All areas within NR118 scenic riverway boundary shall be setback at least 100 ft. from the ordinary high water mark of the St. Croix River. New construction within the B-1 District shall incorporate design elements of the older architectural style of the community and seek to blend newer designs, such as green technology, into the existing storefront streetscape. –Tammi Milberg with information from city hall

Osceola student to compete for national title in Reader’s Digest National Word Power PLEASANTVILLE, N.YYesterday, an eighth-grader from Osceola won the Wisconsin State Championship in the fifth-annual Reader’s Digest National Word Power Challenge, America’s premier vocabulary competition. Mary Willis, a student at Osceola Middle School, will join the top winners from all 50 states to battle for the national title and $50,000 in college scholarships at the 2007 national championship in Orlando, Fla., May 14-15.

“In a word, this student’s achievement is superlative,” said Kathleen Bordelon, executive director of the Reader’s Digest National Word Power Challenge. “A strong vocabulary and love of reading is vital to success in life, and this word champion is off to a great start.”

In contrast to a spelling bee that

quizzes students on the spelling of words, the National Word Power Challenge tests students’ understanding of what words mean.

Thirteen-year-old Mary Willis, whose favorite word is onomatopoeia, spends an average of 15 hours reading every week. She began reading at the age of 4 and finished over 100 books last year.

She counts “Squire” by Tamora Pierce as her favorite.

More than 2 million students and thousands of schools have participated in the Reader’s Digest National Word Power Challenge, an in school skill-building program.

Top grade-level winners advanced to the state competition and state champions and their teacher escorts receive an all-expense-paid trip to the national championship at the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld. A television special

based on the national event will be broadcast on NBC stations this summer, hosted by quizmaster Al Roker of NBC’s “Today Show.”

Based on the popular Word Power column in Reader’s Digest Magazine, the most widely read magazine in the world, the Reader’s Digest National Word Power Challenge is an educational-outreach program of Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. The Reader’s Digest National Word Power Challenge is sponsored nationally by Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats. Additional support is provided by BIC stationery products.

For more information, please visit h t t p : / / w w w. w o rd p o w e rc h a l lenge.com. – Submitted by Reader’s Digest

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Third-Annual All-Leader Boys Basketball

by Marty Seeger and Matt Blumkin FREDERIC – With a big tournament run, the four Webster Tigers make up this year’s All-Leader boys basketball team.

Winning as a team speaks volumes about the team’s players, and these area players did just that. The Luck Cardinals earned their first conference crown in nine years, and the Unity Eagles overcame adversity to finish high in the conference race and win a playoff game.

Grantsburg, Frederic, Siren and St. Croix Falls all played competitive games

too. Some of their players recognized here could be exciting players to watch again next season, while the seniors mentioned put forth strong efforts.

With so many solid players to choose Frederic Steve Lake from, honorable mention rounds out a Kyle Swenson list of other players deserving of recogGrantsburg nition. These players and teams gave the Trent Bonneville area a great season.

Ben Larson In addition, a fair amount of this talent Luck will back next year and can make it Travis Pilz another great season. Of course, there Tyler Petersen will also be new players emerging too.

Mitchell Klatt Thanks to all the area basketball players for a great season!

Honorable Mentions St. Croix Falls Trygve Chinander Cory Gebhard Siren Keith Cremin John Anderson` Unity Merrill Leoso Ryan Flaherty Webster Peter Walsh Kevin Ingalls

First team coach and post players Coach

Randy Hedrick Webster

Name: Randy Hedrick School: Webster Comments: Coach Randy Hedrick led the Tigers toward one of Webster’s most memorable seasons in school history. The regional champs took a defensive strategy into the playoffs and nearly earned a trip to the state tournament in Madison.

Brian Thill Webster

Small Forward

Center

Power Forward

Name: Brian Thill School: Webster Comments: Junior Brian Thill was another Tiger that forwarded the team into playoffs with much success this season. Thill scored crucial points in the playoffs inside, and was an important part of Webster’s outstanding defense this season.

Matt Goulet Unity

Name: Matt Goulet School: Unity Comments: Matt Goulet played big in the middle for the Eagles this season. “Matt was a very good rebounder and added scoring punch,” said Eagles coach Rory Paulsen. Goulet’s frequent board crashing got the Eagles back in business on offense.

Brennan Olson Luck

Name: Brennan Olson School: Luck Comments: This sophomore has emerged as one of the more dangerous players in the conference. He has a smooth shot from the outside and can take it to the hoop. He led the team with 6.7 rebounds and 29 blocked shots.

Olson could be an exciting player to watch for the coming years.

First team guards, MVP and rookie

Paul Olesen Webster

Shooting Guard

Point Guard

MVP

Name: Paul Olesen School: Webster Comments: Senior Paul Olesen was one of Webster’s most important assets to the Tigers team this season. Olesen was a strong force in the paint on offense, making smart moves to the basket that were difficult for defenders to stop, and defensively he rebounded the ball with authority.

Brian Gibbs Webster

Name: Brian Gibbs School: Webster Comments: Brian Gibbs had an incredible season at the guard position this season. He controlled the ball under pressure and floated crucial points on the board when it mattered most. In their sectional final against Regis, Gibbs made three consecutive 3-pointers to bring the team back into contention.

Cody Richert Luck

Name: Cody Richert School: Luck Comments: Look out opposing guards. This junior guard had 53 steals this season, and he could turn them into points quickly for the Cards.

Richert ran the point and led the team in assists with 3.2 per game. “He’s a good leader on the floor,” said Cards coach Rick Giller.

Rookie of the year

Zach Anderson Frederic

Name:Zach Anderson School: Frederic Comments:Sophomore Zach Anderson didn’t log much playing time last season, but this season he tied teammate Steve Lake for the team lead in rebounds with 104.

Anderson averaged 9.19 points per game and earned some valuable varsity playing time, which will come in handy next year.

Second team coach and post players Coach

Rory Paulsen Unity

Name: Rory Paulsen School: Unity Comments: Paulsen stepped into the head coach’s shoes partway through the season when Eagles coach Dennis Anderson left the bench for medical reasons. The Eagles had already lost a key senior player to a torn ACL. Yet, Paulsen got the Ealges a third-place finish in the conference and a playoff win.

Power Forward

Greg Kadrmas St. Croix Falls

Name: Greg Kadrmas School: St. Croix Falls Comments: Kadramas gave the Saints a physical presence inside. He proved to be a deciding factor in the Saints’ upset at Webster with five points in the fourth quarter of that game. He had key baskets in a comefrom-behind win at home against Siren and among the top rebounders in the conference.

Small Forward

Center

Derek D’ Jock Siren

Name: Derek D’ Jock School: Siren Comments: Senior Derek D’ Jock led the league in rebounds and blocked shots this season and kept the Dragons alive in many contests this season. D’ Jock was a physical player under the basket, and was an unselfish leader who led the team with 42 assists.

Mike Christensen Luck

Name:Mike Christensen School: Luck Comments: He provided leadership, scoring and rebounding for the Cardinals.

“Mike Christensen was steady,” Cards coach Rick Giller commented on his offensive play. He shot 54 percent from the field, and played aggressively under the basket and gave the Cards multiple opportunities on

Second team guards, sixth man and most improved Most Improved

Shawn Pavlik Grantsburg

Name: Shawn Pavlik School: Grantsburg Comments: Junior Shawn Pavlik is emerging as one of the Pirates key all-around players. He earned some valuable varsity playing time this season and carved an important niche on the team by forcing big turnovers with steals, and scoring more often.

Shooting Guard

Point Guard

Chris Bugg Unity

Name: Chirs Bugg School: Unity Comments: Bugg continued to connect from 3point range this season in helping the Eagles to a third-place finish in the conference. He also could drive to the basket.

“Chris Bugg is an exceptional scorer,” said Eagles coach Rory Paulsen. The Eagles will have a scoring void to fill next season.

Adam Daniels Siren

Name: Adam Daniels School: Siren Comments: Junior Adam Daniels didn’t waste any time in the shooting department this season.

It wasn’t uncommon to see Daniels score over 20 points per game, and as a guard for the Dragons, he controlled the ball well and offered 45 steals to the team this year.

Sixth Man

Jake Schmidt Frederic

Name: Jake Schmidt School: Frederic Comments: Schmidt was the type of player that you didn’t want to play man-to-man defense on. He was quick, and had no trouble getting a shot off quickly when it On was necessary. defense he averaged over four steals per game, and averaged 14 points and over four assists per game.

SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

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

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Saintly reflections: memories of 1992 SCFs 1991-92 state title team left the community and the state with many great memories

by Matt Blumkin ST. CROIX FALLS – Fifteen years ago on this date, March 21, St. Croix Falls guard Brett Brown made a shot that will ring through the ages of Wisconsin high school basketball and SCF. He took a few dribbles on an inbound pass with 2.5 seconds on the clock in double overtime of the 1992 WIAA Division 3 state championship basketball game. Columbus had just tied the Saints on a 3-pointer, 72-72. Yet, Brown settled the matter once and for all as he lofted the ball into the air from midcourt, and it landed through the hoop.

Former Saints forward Jeff Anderson described it simply, “the perfect end to a perfect season.”

The Saints completed a 27-0 season with a 75-72 overtime win in the championship game to claim the school’s second basketball state title.

Their last came in 1950 when Wisconsin had no divisions in the tournament.

Anderson added another quick comment to sum up their season, “a movie script, but we actually got to live it.”

These players had worked on developing the characters for the script as early as the fourth grade when most of the juniors and seniors from the 1991-92 team had started playing basketball together. They would travel to play in tournaments around the region during those years.

“We started playing together when we were about 11 years old and dedicated ourselves to the game of basketball,” said former Saints forward Jeff Johnson. “We played the game every chance we could get. We used to go from football or baseball practice right into a pick-up game of basketball.

Commitment pays off.”

They continued on that path when they reached high school, and the Saints had built a tradition of winning for them to carry on. The Saints had reached five consecutive sectionals upon their arrival, and they reached the state tournament in 1979.

Saints head coach Ron Greenquist and company knew they had a special crew coming.

“The coaches went with the younger guys the year before to build for the future and it definitely paid off,” said Anderson.

These players had abundant talent, excellent fundamentals and rock solid team chemistry.

“We had several players who did not need the attention and glory that comes with scoring,” said Saints assistant coach Don Stahl. “They were hard workers on the boards, great passers, playmakers, defenders all contributed at one time or another and asked for no other reward than to win the game.”

And win they did. In 1990-91, they went 17-7 overall and reached the sectionals. During a three-year, span they went 70-9. They had balanced scoring with an inside and outside game along with tough defense. With such strengths, they set their goals keeping a goose egg in the loss column for 199192.

“That was the goal the whole time that never changed from day one,” said Anderson. “I said in the huddle this first game, 1 of 20, then 2 of 20 with each

Extra Points

Former St. Croix Falls Saints forward Jeff Johnson going in for a shot against Osseo-Fairchild in the 1992 Division 3 WIAA boys basketball state semifinals. The Saints beat the Cheiftans 80-75 and went on to win the 1992 state championship. They won it on a half-court buzzer-beater by former Saints guard Brett Brown against Columbus in a 75-72 overtime battle. The Saints also went unbeaten that season with a 27-0 mark, and they celebrated the 15th anniversary of their acheivement this year. – Photo by Carl Busby game. The tournaments started and it was 1 of 7.”

They began making the countdown to 27-0 by beating their first 12 opponents by 14 or more points. Then, Webster gave them a scare in a 74-73 overtime escape by the Saints. A Saints player had blocked a layup by Webster’s Jarrod Washburn to secure the win. The Saints had throttled the Tigers 91-50 in their first go-around that season.

“I should have also been aware of Webster but didn’t realize that we were taking them rather lightly,” said Stahl.

That scare also became a turning point of sorts in the Saints’ season.

“We faced a lot of ups and downs during the season but one no greater than or overtime win against Webster because that is where we realized that one letdown could have ruined everything,” said Johnson. “That game changed us and made us better.”

They beat the rest of their regular season opponents comfortably including a 64-40 win over nonconference nemesis Amery, which had given them trouble in the past.

The Saints won the Upper St. Croix Valley Conference with a 14-0 record on the season, and they took their regional by storm with dominating performances over Unity and Osceola. Glenwood

City gave the Saints a competitive game though, which the Saints won 67-61 to claim the regional title.

Anderson, SCF’s leading scorer who averaged 14 points per game, had been held to 10, but the Saints had scorers to fill the gap with Mark Jensen scoring 15 Brent McCurdy hitting 10.

“The strength of our team is that no one person was better than the next,” said Johnson. “We all knew our role on this team and just stuck to that.”

They faced another challenge in the sectional finals against Elk Mound in a 52-49 Saints victory. SCF had been tied with the Mounders going into the final quarter 37-37.

State provided no break from close games with Osseo-Fairchild having given the Saints a back-and-forth contest in the semifinals between two unbeatens. The Cheiftans led 69-62 with less than six minutes to go, but the Saints made an 18-6 run to win 80-75.

Anderson and Brown both scored in the 20s for that game.

“It was a tough game the whole way through,” recalled coach Greenquist.

It would get tougher in the championship game against Columbus when the Cardinals rallied from 14 points down to force two overtimes. The Saints

••• ATHENS, GA – Pad Judd, a onetime Grantsburg student, ran a fourminute, 5.34-second 1500-meter run for the Mississippi State Bulldogs at the Georgia Relays on March 17. Judd ran cross country and track for the Pirates in high school, and he now runs in both for MSU. – Matt Blumkin ••• GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The preliminaries begin for Siren native and former Olympian Molly Engstrom. She and 24 other members of Team USA’s preliminary roster for the International Ice Hockey Women’s World Championships in Manitoba, Canada, arrived in Grand Forks on March 21 to prepare for the tournament. Team USA will announce the 20-player roster on March 27. The U.S. compete in the World will Championship tournament on April 3-10 to be held in Winnipeg and Selkirk, Manitoba. Engstrom played defenseman for team USA in the 2006 games in Turin, Italy. – Matt Blumkin ••• MINNEAPOLIS – Former St. Croix Falls volleyball star Meredith Nelson raked in awards from her season with the Minnesota Golden Gophers last fall. At their Feb. 3 awards banquet, she earned the Gold digger award and co-MVP with teammate Meghan Cumpston. Nelson, a senior, also received a framed jersey. She had helped the Gophers reach a pair of Final Fours between 2002 and 2006.

This season, she made the NCAA Allteam, American Tournament Volleyball Coaches Association’s AllRegion team, Big 10 All-Academic team and All-Conference. The AVCA also awarded with All-American second-team honors. – Matt Blumkin ••• ST. CROIX FALLS – Bandits will be coming to SCF this summer when the St. Croix River Bandits amateur baseball team begins its first season of play. They will be members of the Eastern Minny League in Minnesota, which includes teams in Chisago Lakes, Braham and Pine City. Scott Lindholm, who coaches SCF’s Legion team, will also coach the Bandits. The team will be made up for many former Saints players. Their first season will commence on Friday, May 11, visiting the Quamba, Minn., Cubs. – Matt Blumkin ••• BROOKINGS, S.D. – Former Osceola girls basketball standout, Ashlea Muckenhirn, helped the NCAA Division I South Dakota State University Jackrabbits win their firstever D-I postseason contest on March 17. Muckenhirn had four points and four boards in the Jackrabbits’ 61-48 win over Missouri Valley Conference champion Illinois State in the Women’s National Invitational Tournament. They will host a secondround game next on Thursday, March 22. Muckenhirn has averaged 6.6 points per game and 3.6 rebounds per game this season. – Matt Blumkin ••• WAUPUN – Frederic senior and WSFLG Blizzard defenseman Ethan Hayes competed with the Section 1 senior team at a tournament in Waupun during the St. Paddy’s Day weekend. He had a couple of assists in the games, which the Section 1 team posted a 2-2 record in. Next, Hayes will be going out for Team Wisconsin at their training camp in Wausau during the weekend of March 23-25. – Matt Blumkin

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Saints/from previous page

2007: The St. Croix Falls 1991-92 basketball team was honored at the SCFGrantsburg basketball game on Feb. 9. A picture of the team now hangs in the school in addition to their state championship banner. – Photo by Matt Blumkin Then: The St. Croix Falls 1991-92 basketball team with one of their championship trophies during their state championship run. The Saints went 27-0 that season to win the school’s second state basketball crown. – Photo courtesy of Ron Greenquist even trailed 62-60 in the final 30 seconds of regulation before Brown tied the game with a bucket.

“The championship game was the hardest game we had played all year,” McCurdy recalled. “Columbus had a good team lead by Eric Quamme. We had a lead in the second half we couldn’t hang onto. Then it looked like we might be losing it.”

Columbus’ Ben McCormick had

nailed a 3-pointer to tie the game 72-72 in the second overtime with 2.5 seconds left for SCF to do something. WIAA history could occur in that span of time one way or another. Johnson inbounded the ball to Brown, and Brown’s shot made history sway in the Saints’ favor that day.

“If Brett doesn’t make that shot, we’re going into the first-ever triple overtime game,” said McCurdy. “It was one of

the best games to be played in state history.”

They rode a fire truck in a parade around SCF as the town celebrated the following day, and they had breakfast at the governor’s mansion in Madison the same morning before returning to SCF. “We had a goal, we didn’t want anything to get in our way,” said McCurdy.

With eight juniors returning, including four starters, the Saints looked to make another run in 1992-93. Everyone in the USCVC wanted to get in their way.

“I think it was harder,” said Greenquist. “Everybody wanted to beat

you.”

Osceola edged the Saints early in that season on a half-court buzzer-beater, 5958, but the Saints ran the table until the state championship game where they lost to an unbeaten Auburndale squad.

“I told them ‘hold your head up, nothing to be ashamed of,’” recalled Greenquist.

They could hold their heads up for an unbeaten 1991-92 season and championship in addition to that.

“The ‘92 season was basically a dream come true,” said McCurdy. “It was our goal to start that year too. We knew we had the pieces to do it. We just had to do

Crowe marches on despite troubled life

by Brett Christopherson Appleton Post-Crescent EAU CLAIRE – The same hands that launched an assault of shots more than three decades earlier are now tapping the tops of his thighs.

And you are reminded right then the Mickey Crowe of 2007 is much different than the Mickey Crowe of 1975.

Back then, a 6-foot-5 beanpole with long hair and floppy socks was putting the finishing touches on a legendary Wisconsin state high school basketball career.

“I don’t want to go through the hassle of learning an instrument,” Crowe said, patting his legs as if they were a set of snare drums. “But I use my hands and my voice to make notes and musical creations. I do that about two hours a day.”

It’s a far different kind of performance from those of his heyday, when Crowe was the show, a must-see talent who starred at now-defunct JFK Prep in St. Nazianz, a small Manitowoc County village.

But these unique jam sessions mean so much more than those 30-footers he used to drain en route to becoming the state’s career scoring leader and something of a national icon.

It’s a way for a battered soul to keep marching on. It’s a kind of therapy.

Drugs, alcohol, mental illness and depression may have destroyed a dream for Crowe. But they haven’t destroyed him.

“I think he’s content with life,” said Eau Claire Regis boys’ basketball coach and Kimberly native Bill Uelmen, a friend of Crowe’s who is leading his Ramblers into this week’s WIAA boys’ Division 3 state semifinals on Thursday.

“He accepts it.”

Learning lessons There has been a lot to accept for Crowe, who says he’ll turn 50 on April 3.

His hair is still long, but a graying beard shows his age. And his once-skinny frame, which held 180 pounds during a famed prep career from 1971 to

Mickey Crowe starred for JFK Prep in St. Nazianz, and had one of the WIAA’s most storied basketball careers. In the background is a picture of one of his teams. Yet, poor decisions led him down the wrong road after high school, and now, he has been rebuilding his life. – Photo illustration by Jim Rosandick, Appleton Post-Crescent ‘75, now carries nearly 260 pounds.

“I pretty much walk three miles a day, five days a week, to try to keep the weight off,” Crowe said. “I haven’t put on weight in years, but I was in a mental hospital, and I didn’t exercise for about three years straight. I had to go on a diet just to get my weight down. I was closing in on 300 pounds.”

The body has slowed. But the mind — the same one that once left him delusional, as he believed a group trying to set him up as the Antichrist was listening to him via surveillance equipment — is sharp.

Ask him about scoring 2,724 points — now second in the state behind the 3,391 of former Wausaukee star Anthony Pieper — and he zips off highlights like

SportsCenter.

Ask him about specific dates of his life, like the time he witnessed John Hinckley’s assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan on March 30, 1981, and was later interviewed by national media and the Secret Service, and he becomes a history book.

Ask him about his troubled life, and he talks openly and honestly.

“I wrote in a letter, ‘Please learn from the mistakes I made instead of making your own mistakes and learning from them,’ “ Crowe said of the note he sent to Pieper during the 1992-93 season when Pieper broke his record.

“The point I was trying to make is, if you learn from your own mistakes, then it’s too late.”

Mistakes like getting drunk and getting high.

Mistakes he feels cost him a shot at college glory, and maybe even the NBA. “It takes away your credibility with people because they know you’re getting drunk,” he said. “How are you going to make an NBA team interested in you if they know you’re getting totally soused every day and smoking pot three to six times a day?

“I figure it makes sense to talk about it just so the people know what I’ve been through.”

Crowe, a Catholic, watches Mass every Sunday morning on TV and prays daily.

He doesn’t work and has collected Supplemental Security Income since 1986. He lives near his 88-year-old mother, Helen, in a small one-room apartment. He doesn’t own a car and has never driven.

He follows the news closely, still loves sports and visits with people on his walks in his native Eau Claire. And he makes his music.

“I haven’t had a job in many years,” Crowe said. “But my psychiatrist thinks that’s probably good for me because I’m very active with my life.”

A simple, yet good life for a complex man, someone who proudly states he has been clean and sober for years.

Shoot like the Pistol The dream was first hatched back in Marinette, when a son started doing some amazing things on a driveway and an eager father took notice.

Crowe, entranced by the wizardry of former college and NBA great Pete Maravich, began to emulate his idol back in the seventh grade.

His father, Marty, was already a successful basketball coach, having won four state private school titles — two at Eau Claire St. Patrick, which has since moved and become Regis High School, and one each at Pacelli High in Austin, Minn., and Marinette Catholic Central.

“He got me turned on to make the moves,” Crowe said of Maravich, whom he would eventually copy other ways, like growing long hair and donning the famous floppy socks. “I said, ‘Cripes, I can do this.’ And my dad would watch me working out in the driveway and said, ‘We can score a lot of points.’ “ Moves like running full-speed, stopping, spinning in the air and burying a fadeaway.

It didn’t hurt that Crowe could also consistently drain shots from 30-plus feet, reaching the ball back behind his head and launching one rainbow after another.

“I’d say 60 percent of my shots were three-pointers, what would be threepointers now,” Crowe said.

By the time they arrived in St. Nazianz in 1971, a legend was about to be unleashed.

The elder Crowe had signed on to teach English, serve as a dorm counselor and coach basketball at the small college preparatory school.

His son, quiet by nature and implored by his demanding father to shoot at will, had coaches, players and fans throughout the state talking up a storm by the end of his sophomore season.

It wasn’t uncommon for Crowe to put up at least 40 shots a game.

“He missed his share, but he certainly made his share,” said Madison’s Mark

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Crowe/from previous page Miller, editor of the Wisconsin Men’s Basketball Yearbook and wishoops.net. “And when he made them, they didn’t even touch the rim.”

Added Menasha resident and Neenah native Jim Stadtmueller, a teammate of Crowe’s who graduated from JFK Prep in 1975: “Nobody would have envisioned looking at him that this kid was going to turn out to be a guy that ended up scoring 2,700 points when all was said and done.”

Crowe averaged more than 37 points as a sophomore, 39 as a junior and led the nation at 41.8 as a senior.

Despite facing an onslaught of double teams, triple teams and box-and-ones, he still holds Mickey Crowe wears No. 40 in this JFK team two of the top-10 single-season scoring marks in state history — 1,001 Stadtmueller said. “I thought, ‘Here’s a (third) in 1974-75 and 901 (sixth) in kid who’s just out here trying to play 1973-74. He also has three of the top-10 ball and doing what his dad’s telling single-game scoring records in state him, and people were being rough on annals with 72, 64 and 61, which rank him as a result of it.’

“On the reverse side, there were third, fifth and ninth, respectively.

“I talked to a couple of people, and always people that marveled at his abilthey would go down to the YMCA at ity and respected him. A lot of people Eau Claire and just watch him practice,” went in there wondering if everything said the 52-year-old Uelmen, a 1972 they read about this kid was true, and Kimberly grad and a college teammate after Mickey would roll off a 45- or 50of Michigan State coach Tom Izzo at point night, people would come out of Northern Michigan. “He would just there shaking their heads and going, ‘Wow!’ “ shoot and shoot and shoot.

As a freshman in college, Crowe’s “I remember somebody saying, ‘Yeah, we were just watching as young kids trademark floppy socks were even down at the Eau Claire Y, and he was stolen.

“That’s kind of an honor in a sense,” making 60, 70 shots in a row.’ He could he said with a chuckle. fill it up.”

Crowe’s final high school game, the Wisconsin Independent Schools Marked man But those performances weren’t Athletic Association Class B state championship against Racine Lutheran in always easy.

“I felt like I had to live up to what me 1975, lured a record crowd of more than and my dad had created in how to use 10,000 into the Milwaukee Arena (now me,” Crowe said. “To keep that show U.S. Cellular Arena). Crowe scored 45 points in a 72-58 setback. going.”

“We couldn’t get into the locker room Stadtmueller remembers a coach who pushed his son hard, perhaps too hard. afterward,” Stadtmueller said. “There “There were situations if things were so many media members and weren’t going well, Marty was scream- cameras. The rest of us all dressed and ing at halftime and he’d grab Mickey by were ready to get on the bus and there the jersey and give him a forearm to the were still people waiting to get stuff stomach and tell him, ‘You need to get from him.”

In 1999, Sports Illustrated ranked better,’ “ Stadtmueller said. “He was kind of brutal with him at times. But Crowe No. 34 on the list of the greatest Mickey stayed strong through all of 20th century Wisconsin athletes.

“I’ve never seen any player in the that.”

The fans could also be brutal, some- state capture the imagination of people times calling Crowe a druggie or a loser in terms of wanting to see him play like Mickey Crowe,” Miller said. “There cerand telling him to cut his hair.

“I always felt bad for him,” tainly have been many better players.

UW-Fond du Lac, St. Norbert College, Minn., as a walk-on and finally UW-Superior in 1979-80.

At times, he lived on the streets of Washington, D.C., following Reagan, obsessing about the possibility of nuclear war and once having an exchange about that very topic with the president.

He was diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenic in 1984, when he began a nearly two-year stint at the Trempeleau County Health Care Center near Whitehall.

Today, he takes two forms of medication to combat his mental illness. A four-year bout with depression subsided in 1988.

His father — a man he always admired, a man who essentially created the Crowe legend — died in 1999 at 85 after most of his photo from the 1970s. – Photo submitted final two years were spent in a But in terms of high-school hoopla and nursing home. being able to garner the attention of an “He knows I love him, and I know he entire state and have people want to see loves me,” Crowe said of a father, who him play, I don’t know if anyone was stuck by him even though he vehementany better than Mickey.” ly disapproved of the alcohol and drugs. “I know when I die, I’ll go to Finishing strong heaven and be with him again. And It has been years since Crowe has once that happens, it’s forever.” attended a high school basketball pracCrowe hasn’t shot a basketball since tice, but he sits on a folding chair and 1992, when he walked into the St. watches as Uelmen directs his Regis Patrick’s gym, the same place where his squad. father had won so many games, and He gets pumped after seeing a prop- promptly drilled five straight free erly executed bounce pass. He thanks throws. Previous to that, he hadn’t Uelmen for the opportunity. touched a ball since 1984.

“I think he had some flashbacks,” said “I said that’s my official retirement,” Uelmen, who tried to help recruit Crowe said with a laugh. “I wanted to Crowe to play at Northern Michigan end on a positive note.” during his own college playing days Some may feel Crowe’s career is one and at one time had Marty on his staff of unfulfilled dreams. as a volunteer coach. “I wanted him to But at least he touched the glory. just enjoy being in a gym and watching “It’s not like my basketball career was the kids play again.” a total loss,” Crowe said. “Because of A lot has happened to Crowe since what happened to me in high school high school. was unique. My NBA career was my Beer, marijuana and other drugs soon high school career.” became close friends, he insists, simply True, the Mickey Crowe of 2007 is because he enjoyed their company, not much different than the Mickey Crowe because of any pressure he felt. of 1975.

Overtures to play college ball at He’s wiser and grounded. He’s a surMinnesota, Iowa State and Duke were vivor in a different type of game where spurned for the chance to continue others would have failed and for it, he’s playing with his father at tiny Silver a better person. And he wants everyone Lake College, near Manitowoc. to know what could be his greatest “I went to Silver Lake because I accomplishment given his rocky path thought my dad would for sure let me that lasted 30 years. make my moves,” Crowe said. “I wasn’t “I’m extremely happy,” he said finalsure if that would happen at those other ly, nodding. “I’m totally at peace.” colleges.”

The stint failed, and Crowe’s forgettable college journey — sabotaged by his drug dependence — took him to

Jarrod Washburn off to a strong start Hes 100 percent in mind and body, and ready to forge ahead the 2007 season

by Marty Seeger PEORIA, Ariz. – Seattle Mariner’s pitcher and Webster native, Jarrod Washburn is off to strong and healthy start this season.

Despite coming off of one of the worst records of his career, Washburn has been optimistic about where he’s at since spring training began in early February.

“Everything is a hundred percent healthy right now, I feel great physically and mentally. I’m just ready to put last year behind me,” said Washburn, who spoke from Arizona on Monday morning, just prior to his start against

the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Washburn pitched four and 2/3 innings against Arizona and helped the Mariners win 8-5. The game was played as a split squad team, which is common in spring Jarrod Washburn training. The other half of the Mariners squad played against the Cubs that same day in an away game played at Mesa, Ariz.

Since spring training began in early February, Washburn has logged just over 13 innings in four starts, and has allowed only 10 hits and three earned runs, which amounts to a 1.98 ERA. “So far so good. These games don’t mean a whole lot right now so it’s just a matter of getting ready for the season,” Washburn said.

One of the main things Washburn is

looking to improve on this season is his ability to pitch to left-handed batters.

“Lefties gave me a little more trouble last year than they have in the past,” said Washburn. Although he admits that it is still a work in progress, and there is always room for improvement, he says that he is doing better so far this year as opposed to last year.

Last year, Washburn posted a record of 8-14 with a 4.67 ERA. He made all but two scheduled starts, which were due in part to a calf injury he sustained late in the season. The injury wasn’t in need of surgery, and doesn’t look to have affected his performance in spring training.

As for the Mariners team, it doesn’t appear that they have too much respect in the ways of winning multiple games this season. They posted a 78-84 record and finished last in the American League west, but Washburn remains confident that they can improve this season.

“If we stay healthy I think we have a good chance to do some things and surprise some people,” said Washburn.

Since the season ended last fall, Washburn found time to catch a few of Webster’s basketball games this season.

“They made a heck of a good run this year, I was proud of them,” he said.

Washburn also put in some valuable hunting and fishing time too. Although he spends most of his free time with his wife and kids, he harvested some does and took a nice buck on his property in southern Wisconsin.

With such a busy schedule, Washburn doesn’t get around to the Webster area that often but still finds time to enjoy some fishing when the Mariners play the Minnesota Twins. He’s also enjoyed some quality fishing time during spring training on a lake next to his apartment in Arizona.

“I go fishing almost every day when I’m down here,” Washburn said.

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Run for the ice age Runner to take on 1,000-mile Ice Age Trail challenge MADISON – When Jason Dorgan sets off on a trip across Wisconsin next month, he will be following what many would maintain is one of the state’s most scenic routes. And with an anticipated 21- to 23-day itinerary, he should have plenty of time to take in the sights – if he stops long enough to catch his breath and look around.

Dorgan, a distance runner from Madison, will be attempting to run the entire National Scenic Ice Age Trail, a distance of approximately 1,000 miles.

Starting April 14 at Interstate State Park on the St. Croix River near St. Croix Falls, he’s planning on running 45 to 50 miles a day until reaching Potawatomi State Park on Green Bay in Door County.

If he is successful in his endeavor, Dorgan will become one of a growing list of more than three dozen people who have completed the entire trail, but the first to have run the entire distance.

The Ice Age Trail roughly follows the last outline, or “terminus” of the most recent glacier, which covered Wisconsin more than 10,000 years ago. The proposal for an Ice Age Trail dates back to the 1950s when a Milwaukeean named Ray Zillmer first proposed a trail and park winding through Wisconsin along the terminal moraine.

The Ice Age Park and Trail Foundation www.iceagetrail.org was later established to help make the trail a reality. In 1980, Congress designated the trail as a National Scenic Trail, similar to the well-known Appalachian Trail. In 1987, the state of Wisconsin gave it the second designation of State Scenic Trail.

Today, development and management of the trail is a cooperative effort among the foundation and its local volunteer

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A moment in Madison

chapters, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the National Parks Service www.nps.gov/iatr.

“Wisconsin has some of the world’s finest examples of the effects of continental glaciation,” says Andrew Hanson, an Ice Age Trail specialist who works for both the foundation and DNR. Hanson says the basic features defining the route of the Ice Age Trail are the Kettle Moraine of eastern Wisconsin and extending westward along the most-recent terminal moraine. Geologic features along the route include: kames, lakes, drumlins, ice-walled-lake plains, outwash plains, eskers, tunnel channels, unglaciated features of the Driftless Area and other older landforms.

Currently, more than 600 miles of the trail have been completed. Connecting segments follow lightly to moderately trafficked roads.

Dorgan says the two main reasons he is attempting the 1,000-mile run is to raise awareness of the trail, and to help raise funds to complete the trail. He is also hoping to attract more members to the Ice Age Trail and Park Foundation and is inviting people to join along with him on his run to experience the trail.

He has created a Web site http://www.iceagetrail1000.com (exit DNR) that includes his daily route for the run along with other information about the Ice Age Trail and distance running.

“As we approach the 50th anniversary of the trail in 2008, this is a great time to reflect on what has been accomplished and to continue planning for what needs to be done to convert road segments to trail,” Dorgan says. “If my run can motivate a few more people to get involved with the trail and foundation then it will be a success.”

Other than fundraising efforts sponsored by the foundation and volunteers, one of the main sources of funds for the trail has been the Knowles–Nelson

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SCF’s Brent McCurdy in the 1992 WIAA Division 3 championship game.

The Saints celebrated their 15th anniversary of their 27-0 season this year.

– Leader file photo Stewardship Program. That program, named after former Governors Warren Knowles and Gaylord Nelson, sets aside $3 million annually for acquisition of land for state trails, including the Ice Age Trail. Both men had a hand in shaping the Ice Age Trail: Knowles served on the Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation board of directors and, as a U.S. Senator, Nelson co-sponsored the legislation that made the Ice Age Trail one of the eight National Scenic Trails.

“Thanks to the Stewardship Program, 57 miles of the Ice Age Trail in 17 counties have been permanently protected

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for current and future generations to enjoy,” Hanson says, who notes the foundation has used Stewardship funds to protect an additional 30 properties along the Ice Age Trail.

People who are interested in joining Dorgan for any part of his trail run or who would like to make a donation to the foundation on behalf of his efforts can find more information on his Web site. For more information contact: Brigit Brown, DNR state trails coordinator – 608-266-2183, or Andrew Hanson, Ice Age Trail Trailway Director – 608663-1281. – From the DNR

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NCAA MARCH MADNESS ’05 RULES: In addition to keeping track of how many games each participant called correctly or incorrectly, points will be awarded for correct calls in each round. Points will be awarded as follows: Round of 64 game = 1 point; round of 32 game = 2 points; Sweet 16 game = 4 points; Elite Eight game = 8 points; Final Four = 16 points; NCAA Championship game = 32 points. To prevent a tie, all participants will predict the final score of the NCAA Championship Game; whoever calls it closest to the actual score will receive a 64-point bonus to their final point total. Closeness to final score will be determined by adding up the distance over or under of both actual scores, then adding the two totals. Example: Guess score 60-55. Actual score: 67-52. Seven under+three Participants W-L (Points) Sweet 16 St. Louis Bracket Florida (#1) vs. Butler (#5) Oregon (#3) vs. UNLV (#7) San Jose, C.A. Bracket Kansas (#1) vs. Southern Illinois (#4) UCLA (#2) vs. Pittsburgh (#3) East Rutherford, N.J. Bracket North Carolina (#1) vs. Southern Cal (#5) Georgetown (#2) vs. Vanderbilt (#6) San Antonio Bracket Ohio St. (#1) vs. Tennessee (#5) Memphis (#2) vs. Texas A&M (#3) Elite Eight St. Louis Bracket Florida/Butler winner vs.Oregon/UNLV winner San Jose, C.A. Bracket Kansas/Southern Illinois winner vs. UCLA/Pittsburgh winner East Rutherford, N.J. Bracket North Carolina/Southern Cal winner vs. Georgetown/Vanderbilt winner San Antonio Bracket Ohio St./Tennessee winner vs. Memphis/Texas A&M winner

Matt Blumkin 32-16 (40)

Marty Seeger 37-11 (49)

John Ryan 36-12 (45)

Butler Oregon

Florida Oregon

Florida Oregon

Kansas UCLA

Kansas UCLA

Kansas Pittsburgh

North Carolina Georgetown

North Carolina Georgetown

North Carolina Georgetown

Ohio St. Memphis

Tennessee Memphis

Ohio St. Memphis

Butler

Florida

Oregon

Kansas

Kansas

Pittsburgh

North Carolina

Georgetown

North Carolina

Memphis

Tennessee

Ohio St.

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OAPBOX

Next: Rangers, Giants Last year was a difficult time for the Brewers who were injury ridden through much of the season. The Crew needs to come out with a breakout year, and it seems as though optimism is on our side.

Milwaukee has been able to heal itself through time and now with J.J. Hardy and Rickie Weeks back in action, we can all breathe just a little bit easier. But it doesn’t stop there. The Brewers acquired Cardinal ace Jeff Suppan to a $42 million deal, which is something they’ve needed to do with their moldy money for sometime. Ben Sheets is back to being healthy again. Whether this will last we do not know, but when he’s healthy he can be unstoppable. Bill Hall is another name that comes to the list of future all-stars, as well as Prince Fielder, just to name a few. This could be a great year for the Brewers, and it’s going to be an exciting year. There hasn’t been a lot of change other than health, but that could mean more wins

A R E A Hacker’s Lanes Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: Storm Chasers 50, Spare-Us 45, Flame Throwers 40, Sandbaggers 40, Hot Shots 39, Underdogs 38, Gems 33, Misfits 23.

Men’s games: Scott Morrison (Gems) 223, Shane Nyland (Hot Shots) 207, Jim Loomis (Spare-Us) 181.

Men’s series: Scott Morrison (Gems) 566, Jamie Mier (Gems) 523, Bert Meyer (Flame Throwers) 513.

Women’s games: Gail Linke (Storm Chasers) 202, Gloria Meyer (Underdogs) 195, Sandi Gardner (Underdogs) 172.

Women’s series: Gail Linke (Storm Chasers) 548, Gloria Meyer (Underdogs) 547, Bea Moyer (Sandbaggers) 458.

Team games: Gems 858, Misfits 845, Underdogs 825.

Team series: Gems 2460, Underdogs 2390, Flame Throwers 2344.

Games 50 or more above average: Ken Erickson (+52), Sandi Gardner (+52).

Monday Afternoon Retired Standings: Eagles 27, Nite Hawks 20, Swans 14, Badgers 11.

Men’s games: Roger Messer (Eagles) 173, Dick Coen (Nite Hawks) 161, Max Simon (Swans) 155.

Men’s series: Dick Coen (Nite Hawks) 463, Roger Messer (Eagles) 460, Max Simon (Swans) 427.

Women’s games: Lucy Hansen (Eagles) 157, Carol Phelps (Eagles) 153, Carol Messer (Eagles) 148.

Women’s series: Lucy Hansen (Eagles) 438, Carol Phelps (Eagles) 422, Thelma Hendricks (Nite Hawks) 418.

Team games: Eagles 593, Nite Hawks 567, Swans 533.

Team series: Eagles 1698, Nite Hawks 1690, Swans 1580.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: House of Wood 50, The Bottle Shop 49, Adventures 48, Hacker’s Lanes 36, S&C Bank 36, Mane Attractions 34, Radio Shack 28, Miller Chicks 27.

Individual games: Gail Linke (HL) 210, Cherrise Miller (MC) 201.

Individual series: Gail Linke (HL) 555, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 537, Robin Lindvall (BS) 520.

Team games: Hacker’s Lanes 718, House of Wood 640, The Bottle Shop 596.

Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 1996, House of Wood 1751, The Bottle Shop 1695.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 104, Great Northern Outdoors 100.5, Bottle Shop 88, Hog Wild 74.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 70, Oddballs 59, Ward Lake Services 45, Pioneer Bar 31.

Men’s games: Gene Ackland 244, Don Hughes 238, Maynard Stevens 237.

Men’s series: Gene Ackland 663, Don Hughes 633, Ed Bitler 620.

Team games: Yellow Lake Lodge 657, Great Northern Outdoors 604, Ward Lake Services 581.

Team series: Great Northern Outdoors 1757, Yellow Lake Lodge 1733, Bottle Shop 1701.

Tuesday Late Mixed Standings: Rat Pack 48 (29), McCurdy Farms 44 (33), Pumpkin Heads 44 (33), RT’s 34 (43), Packer Backers 33 (44), Rock and Bowl 28 (49).

this season. –Marty Seeger Next: Spring Training Continues This should be a great year to be a Twins fan! After a big comeback in the AL Central race last year, the Twins return almost everyone for this season. Pitcher Francisco Liriano may be out for the season, but they will again have CY Young winner Johan Santana on the mound. The Twins, of course, also have Boof Bonser; depth in the rotation could be the one question mark that may haunt the team. Catcher Joe Mauer will be behind the plate again and looking to keep his hot hitting going again. Of, course they also have Justin Morneau, Torri Hunter and Michael Cuddeyer in the lineup.

The Twins will be challenged though with the Detroit Tigers looking tough again. So far in spring training, the Twins have looked better after a disturbingly slow start. They stood at 10-9 in the preseason as of March 19. Of course, it really doesn’t count until the first pitch of opening day! – Matt Blumkin

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Men’s games: John Bytnar 213, Chad Brugman 213, Randy McCurdy 206.

Men’s series: Randy McCurdy 587, Rick Hach 560, John Bytnar 518.

Women’s games: Rose Burnham 176, Barb Fritsche 163, Cyndie Omer 151.

Women’s series: Rose Burnham 456, Barb Fritsche 408, Tiffanie Tretsven 400.

Team games: McCurdy Farms 737, Packer Backers 699, Rock and Bowl 680.

Team series: McCurdy Farms 2047, Packer Backers 1921, Rock and Bowl 1826.

Wednesday Afternoon Ladies Standings: Pioneer Bar 5-64, Frandsen Dairy 7-61, All Around Gals 2-45, Crazy Ladies 7-41, Hacker’s Lanes 0-30.

Individual games: Bonnie Fjorden (HL) 180, Laur Fisk (PB) 179, Bea Moyer (CL) 173.

Individual series: Bea Moyer (CL) 463, Diana Erickson (PB) 453, Ernie Meyer (CL) 445.

Team games: Crazy Ladies 734 & 733, Pioneer Bar 729.

Team series: Crazy Ladies 2189, Pioneer Bar 2079, Frandsen Dairy 2029.

Wednesday Night Early Men Standings: Skol Bar 32, Parker 29, Lewis Silo 24, Cummings Lumber 23, Pioneer Bar 22, A-1 Machine 20, Jack Pine Trading 20, Bye 6.

Individual games: Chris Rowell (P) 266, Jon Doolittle (LS) 229, Bryce Daeffler (JT) 227.

Individual series: Chris Rowell (P) 625, Shawn Olson 608, Jon Doolittle (LS) 587.

Team games: Parker 960, Lewis Silo 930 & 908.

Team series: Parker 2686, Lewis Silo 2666, Cummings Lumber 2532.

Thursday Early 3-Man Standings: CenturyTel (8) 19.5, K-Wood (9) 19, Frontier Trails (8) 19, Grindell Law Offices (10) 18, Full Timers (4) 9, Fab Four (5) 7, Hell Raisers (5) 6.5, Wikstrom Construction (3) 6.

Individual games: Mike Sullivan (WC) 237, Don Hughes (KW) 234, Don McKinney (FF) 225.

Individual series: Don McKinney (FF) 634, Tom Vilstrup (CT) 632, Don Hughes (KW) 622.

Team games: Grindell Law Offices 626, Fab Four 590, CenturyTel 583.

Team series: Grindell Law Offices 1728, K-Wood 1684, Fab Four 1640.

Consecitive strikes (5 or more): Don Hughes 6x – 234; Don McKinney 6x – 225; Tom Vilstrup 5x – 214.

Games 50 or more above average: 3/1/07: Marlin Larson (FrT) 206 (+51) Splits converted: 3-10: Curt LaPre. 4-5: John Hickey. 6-8-10: Dave Hall. 4-9: Curt LaPre Friday Night Ladies (3/9/07) Standings: The Leader 54, Meyer’s Plus 52, 4-Season Travel 49, Brad’s Ringneck 41, Tin Cup Promotions 40, Skol Bar 37, Hole in the Wall 29, Bye 6.

Individual games: Lynn Johnson 219, Sheila Hansen 198, Jennifer Delozier 197.

Individual series: Gail Linke 567, Cara Holicky 520, Linda Richter 517.

Team games: 4-Season Travel 690, The Leader 681, Brad’s Ringneck 654.

Team series: The Leader 1972, 4Season Travel 1937, Brad’s Ringneck 1870.

Games 50 or more above average:

Jennifer Delozier; Sheila Hansen.

Games 75 or more above average: Lynn Johnson.

Series 100 or more above average: Lynn Johnson.

Others (triplicates, all-spare games, etc.): Gail Linke Friday Night Ladies (3/16/07) Standings: The Leader 54, Meyer’s Plus 54, 4-Season Travel 49, Brad’s Ringneck 48, Tin Cup Promotions 45, Skol Bar 44, Hole in the Wall 36, Bye 6.

Individual games: Gail Linke 197, Missy Hernandez 192, Tammy Weldon 191.

Individual series: Missy Hernandez 530, Gail Linke 514, Karen Carlson 497.

Team games: Brad’s Ringneck 633, The Leader 617, Meyer’s Plus 601.

Team series: Brad’s Ringneck 1803, Meyer’s Plus 1720, 4-Season Travel 1696.

Games 50 or more above average: Tammy Weldon.

Saturday Night Mixed (Final) Standings: Generation III 58, Schmidt House 4 57, Lakers 54, Garbes Gang 51, Handicaps 51, Dead Eyes 44, CC Lupinos 39, Skowl 38.

Men’s games: Terry Ingram (SK) 221, Curtis Renfroe (GE) 212, Jason Richter (DE) & Curtis Renfroe (GE) 211.

Men’s series: Terry Ingram (SK) 593, Curtis Renfroe (GE) 581, Brad Schmidt (SH) 547.

Women’s games: Deb Ingram (SK) 185 & 182, Kathy Underwood (Sub) 178.

Women’s series: Deb Ingram (SK) 527, Kathy Underwood (Sub) 514, Kathy Java (LA) 481.

Team games: Dead Eyes 737, Generation III 690, Skowl 684.

Team series: Skowl 2018, Lakers 1935, Dead Eyes 1920.

Splits converted: 6-7-10: Mary Garbe.

McKenzie Lanes Monday Madness Standings: Scottay’s Trucking 60, Peper Tire & Align. 56, State Farm Ins. 53, Alleycats 41, Pepie’s Gals 40, Frederic Larsen Auto 35, McKenzie Lanes 31, Osceola Plumbing & Htg. 30.

Individual games: Linette Erickson 245, Debbie Thompson 207, Denise Johnston 200.

Individual series: Linette Erickson 566, Janelle Wilson 498, Debbie Thompson 498.

Team games: Scottay’s Trucking 660.

Team series: Scottay’s Trucking 1834.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Metal Products 71, Milltown Appliance 69, McKenzie Lanes 65, Bont Chiropractic 61.5, Sam’s Carpentry 58.5, Edina Divas 56, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 55.5, Jericho Trucking 43.5.

Individual games: Dana Amundson

R E S U L T S 197, Cindy Castellano 193, Yvonne Snyder 185.

Individual series: Cindy Castellano 525, Dana Amundson 509, Jane Smith 509.

Team games: Edina Divas 1051, Milltown Appliance 1009.

Team series: Milltown Appliance 2926, Metal Products 2892.

Tuesday Women’s Day Standings: Kassel Tap 123, Gutter Dusters 120.5, Custom Outfitter 113.5, Country Gals 112.5, A-1 Machine 107.5, B&H Builders 100.5, Hauge Dental 88.5, Bye 50.

Individual games: Kelley Hill 201, Audrey Ruck 199, Fran McLeod 198.

Individual series: Audrey Ruck 570, Annette Norlander 555, Kelley Hill 528.

Team games: B&H Builders 836, A-1 Machine 806.

Team series: B&H Builders 2335, Kassel Tap 2326.

Tuesday Night Men Standings: Dream Lawn 22, Greatland Transportation 20, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 20, Steve’s Appliance 18, McKenzie Lanes 14, Glass Bar 14, Hack’s Pub 12, The Dugout 8.

Individual games: Michael Hill 277, Jim McKenzie 266, Darren McKenzie & Jamie Booth 243.

Individual series: Michael Hill 677, Roy Price 664, Bob Rettler 650.

Team games: Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 1021, Greatland Transportation 980.

Team series: Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 2908, Dream Lawn 2901.

Wednesday Early Mix Standings: Tri-County Imp. 67, Hendrick’s Motor 55, Lite House 52, Fox Den 49, Holiday Stationstores 48, Fox Den II 48, Larsen Auto Frederic 38, Cutting Edge 27.

Men’s games: Merlin Fox 268, Scott Lessman, Dan Ruck & Todd Wagner 204.

Men’s series: Merlin Fox 714, Butch Korsan 586, Scott Lessman 569.

Women’s games: Amy Eibs 212, Janice Fox 189, Jeanne Kizer 178.

Women’s series: Jeanne Kizer 471, Janice Fox 465, Amy Eibs 432.

Team games: Fox Den 660, Larsen Auto Frederic 653.

Team series: Larsen Auto Frederic 1864, Fox Den 1858.

Wednesday Night Men Standings: Davy’s Construction 20, Embroidery Plus 20, Tiger Express 18, Harvest Moon 18, Dalles Electrician 18, McKenzie Lanes 16, Reed’s Marina 14, Hanjo Farms 4.

Individual games: Dennis Kindem 279, Darren McKenzie 258, Todd Hansen & Scott Davison 244.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 733, Alan Vold 681, Brad Hacker 663.

Team games: Harvest Moon 1118.

Team series: Harvest Moon 3129.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: K.C. Electrical 80.5, Century 21 69, Hauge Dental 68.5, Balsam Lake Hardware 63, Eagle Valley Bank 54.5, Deer Lake Block 53.5, RiverBank 50.5, Hack’s Pub 40.5.

Individual games: Mary Sue Morris 212, Dixie Welling 211, Shannon Cox 205.

Individual series: Shannon Cox 562, Mary Sue Morris 539, Holly Gutzmer 535.

Team games: Balsam Lake Hardware 1137.

Team series: Balsam Lake Hardware 3121.

Black & Orange Monday Night Men (End of 2nd Half) Standings: Bruce’s Auto 33-11, Pope’s Construction 28-16, Larry’s LP 24-20, Parker 23-21, Glass & Mirror Works 1727, Vacant 7-37.

Individual games: Chris Olson (L) 193, Chuck Hahr (G&M) 188, Mark Holmstrom (BA) 187.

Individual series: Curt Phelps (BA) 539, Mark Holmstrom (BA) 513, Chris Olson (L) & Chuck Hahr (G&M) 501.

Team games: Larry’s LP 934, Bruce’s Auto 911, Pope’s Construction 908.

Team series: Bruce’s Auto 2639, Larry’s LP 2638, Pope’s Construction 2529.

Splits converted: 4-7-10: Chris Olson.

TNT Ladies Standings: Flower Power 30-18, Larry’s LP 27-21, Cashco 26-22, Wild Bill’s 1335.

Individual games: Robin Willard (WB) 179, Cheryl Hansen (WB) 175, Jennifer Kern (L) 171.

Individual series: Jennifer Kern (L) 496, Robin Willard (WB) 478, Cheryl Hansen (WB) 442.

Team games: Wild Bill’s 735, Larry’s LP 681, Cashco 675.

Team series: Wild Bill’s 2029, Flower Power & Larry’s LP 1922, Cashco 1892.

Wednesday Night Men ( End of 2nd Half) Standings: T&P Tree Service 31-13, Lions 28-16, Cashco 25-19, Northview Drive Inn 23-21, 10th Hole 22.5-21.5, Lynch Mob 17-27, Black & Orange 15.528.5, Blasters 14-30.

Individual games: Ed Phelps (C) 221, Steve Rhode (B&O) 215, Chuck Houman (10th) 202.

Individual series: Ed Phelps (C) 557, Josh Phelps (T&P) 526, Steve Rhode (B&O) 510.

Team games: Blasters 969, Cashco 943, T&P Tree Service 940.

Team series: T&P Tree Service 2728, Blasters 2678, Cashco 2659.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Riske Dick’s 36-8, Pour House 30-14, Black & Orange 23-21, Check Services 16-28, Hole in the Wall 15-29, Ben Ott Construction 12-32.

Individual games: Jackie Churchill (RD) 215, Tooter Barnes (PH) 186, Julie Chalupsky (H) 181.

Individual series: Jackie Churchill (RD) 533, Tooter Barnes (PH) 498, Julie Chalupsky (H) 478.

Team games: Riske Dick’s 708, Pour House 695, Hole in the Wall 672.

Team series: Riske Dick’s 2050, Pour House 2016, Hole in the Wall 1952.

Games 50 or more above average: Chris DeMarre 178 (+73).

Series 100 or more above average: Chris DeMarre 417 (+102).

Early Risers Standings: Hole in the Wall 43, 10th Hole 43, Gandy Dancers 38, A+ Sanitation 30.

Individual games: Celia Leehe (HITW) 201, Sheila Anderson (10th) 194, Marion Obszarny (10th) 193.

Individual series: Sheila Anderson (10th) 490, Marion Obszarny (10th) 481, Donna Crain (GD) 470.

Team games: 10th Hole 634, Gandy Dancers 612, A+ Sanitation 593.

Team series: 10th Hole 1812, Gandy Dancers 1673, A+ Sanitation 1659.

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

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A city within a city About 91,000 fans attended the WIAA state boys basketball tourney last week, down slightly from the 95,000-plus figure from 2006.

Was the attendance-drop symptomatic of a rumored boycott of Division 3 sessions due to frustration with the public-private school issue?

Once again, the Leader sports staff members who were unable to make it to the tourney made sure to secure press credentials for this lowly moonlighter.

Unfortunately, I was sans camera so despite considerable time spent roaming the inner sanctum of the Kohl Center, sadly there will be no award-winning photo montage‚ in this week’s issue (dry your eyes, fans).

But even without the photo ops, the post-game press conferences were still a treat to watch. It’s interesting to see the poise (or fear) a 16-, 17- or 18-yearold kid can have when seated on a platform in front of a dozen TV cameras with 30 or so mostly grizzled newspaper stiffs holding microphones and notepads.

Meanwhile, a three-on-one job interview has been known to make the knees knock on many a savvy adult (raising hand knowingly).

As usual, Leader Land was well represented in the arena’s seats and concourses as well as out on the streets, and in restaurants and bistros in our bustling capital city (and so far all reports indicate everyone was very well behaved).

On Sunday morning, the downstate press gave ample ink to the Milwaukee Vincent-Oshkosh West Division 1 final, with veteran title-winning Vincent coach Tom Diener earning a “thumbs down” for ordering his team into a full-scale stall with a 12-9 lead midway through the second quarter. The tactic immediately turned a crowd that was already probably pro-West into an anti-Vincent throng that rained boos down on the stalling Vincent cagers who were merely following their acclaimed coach’s orders.

After a 12-12 halftime tie, West went on to a convincing victory. In Division 3, Webster nemesis Eau Claire Regis didn’t put up much of a fight versus eventual champ Racine St. Catherine while Spooner

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sectional Division 4 representative Gilman missed a chance to upset perennial champ Randolph by failing to knock down some fourth quarter free throws in an eventual overtime loss. Division 2 was won by the Monroe Cheesemakers, which last won a state crown in 1965. That was the year Northwest Wisconsin legend John Schell of Cumberland regaled the Spooner sectional and led his team to a third-place finish at state. Schell, of course. went on to a career for the UW Badgers. Two future Badgers played in this year’s tourney, namely 6’8” post man Keaton Nankivil of Madison Memorial and 6’7” guard/forward Tim Jarmusz of Oshkosh West.

America’s game returns in St. Croix Falls Next Thursday, the St. Croix Falls High School Saints open the Leader Land baseball schedule with a game at Plum City. The Saints will play their first Lakeland conference game on April 5. Meanwhile, ex-Saints diamond star Scott Lindholm has spearheaded the creation of a SCF town team, which will open play later this spring. A well-stocked roster of former Saints high school heroes from the recent and distant past will play for the newly christened River Bandits. They are scheduled to begin play on May 11. This is ever more reason for the benefactors of the proposed new Frederic baseball stadium to get off their tails and start buying lottery tickets so construction may begin.

Extra turkey permits on sale Even though you may have again failed to submit your turkey permit application on time, there still may be hope for you. Log in to www.dnr.state.wi.us and you may find that you can buy a late-period permit in the management zone of your choice.

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Various bird noises and (and real springtime) expected soon Expect to hear some turkey gobbling by the end of the week, and grouse drumming and woodcock mating flights in another month. Wood ducks will return in earnest in about eight to 10 days and geese will mostly have their nesting sites staked out by then as well.

Easy trivia this week This week’s fill-in-the-blank trivia exercise is called “name the high school of this WIAA boys state tournament legend.” Two players are listed from each decade from the 1950s to the present (listed chronologically). Anyone who consults their state tournament booklet for correct answers will be abruptly and summarily disqualified.

1) Paul Morrow ____________ 2) Pat Richter ____________ 3) Roy Birk ____________ 4) Max Walker ___________ 5) Rob Moodie ___________ 6) Mike Jirschle _____________ 7) Joe Wolf ____________ 8) Robert Berryhill______________ 9) Cory Kreibich____________ 10) Tim Decorah _____________ 11) Dupree Fletcher ___________ 12) Andy Polka ___________ Correct answers: 1) St. Croix Falls 2) Madison East 3) Waukesha 4) Milwaukee Lincoln 5) Superior 6) Clintonville 7) Kohler 8) Racine Horlick 9) Spring Valley 10) Wisconsin Dells 11) Milwaukee Washington 12) Oshkosh West.

John Ryan can be e-mailed at jmr202@yahoo.com

The Unity girls basketball team and parents enjoyed a very successful season, finishing out the 2007 season on Feb. 28 with 18 wins and one loss. The girls goal at the beginning of the season was “to go unbeaten.” Six of the girls have played together since the fourth grade. Paul Heimstead and Steve Jorgenson have coached the team for the past three years.

Here the team is shown with first-place ribbons from the St. Croix Falls tournament on Feb. 24. Back row (L to R): Coach Paul Heimstead, Sarah Bader, Morgan Hoehne, Anna Ebensperger, Shawna Jorgenson and coach Steve Jorgenson. Middle row (L to R): Brittany Kruse, Kayla Johnson and Janet Hunter. Front row (L to R): Kasey Heimstead, Emily Bethke, Shay Nelson and Hailey Olson. Missing: Tina Lennartson. – Photo submitted

The Unity coaching staff and parents have enjoyed a season of wrestling and watching the kids wrestle hard all season long.

The Unity youth wrestlers pictured above with the three first-place trophies awarded to them this season. The team took first place in Shell Lake on Jan. 27, first place in Osceola on Feb. 4 and first place in Luck on March 3.

On March 10 some of the Unity wrestlers participated in a kids folk-style state regional tournament in River Falls. Three of those wrestlers included Dylan Stenberg, Dylan Ruck and Dylan Hendricks. The three wrestlers will participate in the state tournament on March 23-24. – Photos submitted

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

O UTDOORS INTER- COUNTY LEADER

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

Where have all the courses gone?

There are a handful of bowhunters out there that practice with their equipment just weeks before the season begins. They may even add new equipment Marty archery such as sights, broadSeeger heads or arrows to the arsenal.

Even a self-proThe claimed bowhunting Bottom Line nut such as myself can attest to making those last-minute preparations before the hunt.

But all in all, we’re not really doing ourselves or the animals we pursue any favors.

In order to up the success ante, bowhunters and gun hunters alike should start practicing shortly after the season ends. For gun fanatics, this might include a longer wait due to weather conditions, but for archers, practice can be had all year long, regardless of the weather.

We’re fortunate to live in an area where an archery shop exists around every corner. Throughout the winter, various indoor archery leagues have been going on all across the area, and hundreds of archers take advantage of the opportunity. One thing we can’t take advantage of in the area however, are the 3-D courses that were once popular in many towns in Polk and Burnett Counties. There are still a couple of smaller archery leagues that can be found, but for a 30-target course you need to travel vast distances just to get there.

The nearest outdoor 3-D course currently operating in this area can be found just outside of Amery, which is part of the Indianhead Archery League.

Others included in the Indianhead are Menomonie, Hudson, Prairie Farm, Bloomer, Somerset (Chilakoot), New Richmond and Clear Lake. This is a nice variety of courses to choose from,

This might look like a chipshot, but with four other archers standing behind while trying to make you miss can become tricky. That’s just some of the fun on a 3-D archery course. - Photos by Marty Seeger but it can be a hike for someone who lives in the Grantsburg area.

At one time, Polk and Burnett counties hosted some nice courses including the Grantsburg area, Webster, Spooner and the Lewis area (South Fork), but archery courses disappear, and the attendance at the events, which are held every weekend until September, slowly fade as well.

Some friends and I participated in a shoot last Sunday in Rice Lake and the attendance there was limited, which meant we could be done shooting in a couple of hours with five people. It was the perfect day to enjoy an afternoon in the woods, but it would have been nice to see more people participating.

After talking with other shooters, they informed us that it was an excellent turnout, but it wasn’t nearly as popular as it used to be. They said that in most cases, 50 to 60 archers was a good number. I’m not sure what the official turnout was in Rice Lake, but it would have made me a little more comfortable to see more people. That’s because 3-D archery courses are worth the trip. There are lots of other ways to hone in your archery skills, such as indoor 3-D, spot targets, video, and even your backyard, but in general it’s the outdoor events that test your skills.

So why the declining numbers in 3-D archery? I don’t think it has as much to do with declining archers as much as it does with other factors. Take money for example. 3-D targets cost a ton of money. A life-sized elk target can easily cost over a thousand dollars. The cheaper targets include turkey and varmints, but in general, people want variety.

I mentioned earlier that location was a big factor, but time can be a burden as well. Archery leagues are nonprofit organizations, and the work involved with setting up a course and organizing an event takes tons of donated time from people who have full-time jobs, families, and other hobbies.

Another factor is land. It takes a generous person or club to lend a chunk of land to host an event, and an open field of 20 acres doesn’t cut it. It takes a special piece of property to allow archers the added sense of realism on the course. Most of the courses are located at the local sporting clubs, but some operate on private land generously donated by people who want to preserve the sport.

Another issue with 3-D archery is the methods that we choose to enjoy archery. Some archers choose to use traditional equipment, while others

use the compound bow. The skill levels at every tournament vary from the beginner to the experienced. For an experienced target pro, the majority of the courses offer little challenge. A 40yard shot for an experienced tournament archer is easy, but an average hunter might scoff at shooting from that distance, and a traditional archer would not even consider it.

The fact is that you can’t please everyone, but for the general archer most courses offer a little something for everyone whether you’re a beginner or experienced pro.

I’m hopeful that families who enjoy 3-D tournaments continue to do so, and I hope to see courses pop up throughout Polk and Burnett counties again in the future.

Archers need these gathering places to swap stories about last year’s hunt, or to just share ideas about how to improve shooting abilities. For bowhunters it’s a great excuse to break out the bow and tweak out the problems before deer season begins. By the time hunting season arrives, shooting a bow will become second nature.

Talk to your local sporting goods store to find out when the next tournament is. There are lots to choose from, and although you may need to drive longer distances to get there, it’s worth the trip.

The arrow at the bottom left of the target will be scored as a five, which shows that even a 20-yard shot can offer challenges to the common archer.

Brought to you by the following sponsors:

Whitetails Unlimited fundraising banquet scheduled GRANTSBURG – Whitetails Unlimited is sponsoring the Burnett County Whitetails Fundraising Spring Fling on Saturday, April 28, at the American Legion Hall, Oak Street, Grantsburg. This special event will feature a dinner, auction, door prizes, sporting equipment, limited edition wildlife and outdoor art, and WTU collectibles.

Proceeds from this fundraising banquet will go toward local projects that uphold WTU’s mission.

The social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 each. There is an April 28 deadline for tickets, and tickets will not be sold at the door.

To order tickets call Don Chell at 715-689-

2233, or WTU National Headquarters at 800-274-5471, or go online at www.whitetailsunlimited.com.

Whitetails Unlimited, Inc. is a national, nonprofit, conservation organization, with members in all 50 states that strongly believes in working with its local chapters in addressing local, state and national issues involving whitetail deer and their habitat. Unique among conservation organizations, Whitetails Unlimited returns 50 percent of net event proceeds to the local chapter to use on local conservation projects. For more information on Whitetails Unlimited please visit their Web site at www.whitetailsunlimited.com. – submitted

On

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Leftover turkey tags will go on sale Friday, March 23, starting at 10 a.m. There are 43,000 available permits statewide, but in some zone the numbers are limited.

Zones affecting Polk and Burnett counties have some of the most limited numbers available. Zone 37, which covers a good portion of southern Polk County has only 379 tags available for the last season which runs from May 16-20.

Zone 38, which covers the northern half of Polk and most of Burnett County has 462 tags available for the May 16-20 season.

In tota,l the DNR is issuing 43,000 over-the-counter tags, which will likely sell out as quickly as last season’s tags.

Hunters will be able to purchase one turkey permit per day until each zone and time period is sold out. Permits cost $10 for residents and $15 for nonresidents in addition to an annual hunting license and turkey stamp. All hunters must first purchase a spring turkey license and stamp fee in order to purchase a bonus permit. The license and stamp fee are already included in Conservation Patron licenses. -– Marty Seeger with information from the DNR

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

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Professor offers insight to weedy lakes SIREN — Fishing may have changed the biological structure of Big Sand Lake. Located near Siren, it was the destination of Ken and Chester Cole. They biked up from Chicago to catch some fish before shipping off to World War II. Later I saw tubs of foot-long black crappie go to Minneapolis with day fishers.

Clients of our little summer resort collected sizable walleye and northern pike, and I once beached a Bluegill that approached the size of a dinner plate.

By the mid-50s there were complaints of pesky small pike. Panfishing died off as the size decreased. Now recreational activities have shifted more toward water sports. Stepping off our float plane upon returning from Alaska in September 2005, we were surprised by the bathtub-warm water. Global warming, now acknowledged as partly people-caused, is a likely factor.

The water was astonishingly clear with the bottom visible from the air, not expected for a rich shallow lake. In earlier times, swimmers expected cool water and periodic blooms of algae.

They appeared as green specks throughout the water. The current transparency is surprising since the lake has become surrounded by cabins.

Runoff from fertilized lawns and other human activities should have enriched the lake with minerals. Eutrophication, such as an increase in scum-forming algae, is the expected result. But the opposite, clear water, has occurred.

Another surprise was the extent of broad-leafed macrophytes that are also visible from above. These plants, Richardson’s Pond Weed or close rela-

tive, form a submerged forest of yellowgreen everywhere except for deep spots and along windward shores. It was recently found that lakes could switch from a high-algal low-vegetative state to few algae with lots of plants. This suggests that the food web switched from one based on microscopic diatoms to one based on leafy plants. What caused the change?

An ecosystem usually changes with removal of the top predator. Meat-hungry Californians wiped out the razor clams in Clam Beach during World War II, the Atlantic cod fishery was collapsed in 1992 by overfishing, and the overpopulation of deer is due to near extermination of the wolf. Biodiversity, the number of coexisting species, can reduce system stability. This widespread result was traced to humans by relating the number of species present to gradients in the number of people.

Obvious human impacts here include 1) the addition of eutrophifying nitrogen and phosphorous, 2) altering the residence time of the water and eliminating spawning beds by damming up the lake with roads and raising the level of culverts, 3) scouring shallows and generating wakes with power boats, 4) effecting the loss of lily and pickerel weed beds and associated hiding holes by pulling those along the shore, and 5) allowing harvest of the biggest fish.

Around 1940, the voracious muskellunge was stocked. But it hybridized and died out leaving northern pike as the top predators. These piscivors feed on other fishes when big enough to do so. Vicious competitors, I once saw a

pike broach the surface with another16incher in its teeth. And they hold the world record for the 100 inch dash.

Maturity takes three years. At age 10 they can weigh 10 to 15 pounds. Males then quit growing but females continue to about age 20. These are the trophies and replacement takes two decades.

Growth is best in cold water, so global warming doesn’t help. Alaskan pike will strike most anything, including a screwdriver that I once dropped overboard, so the big ones are easily fished out. Restoring a piscivor-dominated stable system is slow and difficult, at least in the case of the Atlantic cod.

Overfishing in Big Sand probably began with the summer resort industry.

Between the mid-40s and the land boom of the 60s, four or five resorts operated. They had a clientele that came to fish. The maximal number of fish in a lake depends on the amount of food formed from minerals and light by photosynthesis. Light energy available is set by the area of the lake. In a shallow lake, the fish are concentrated into a small volume concentrating for an easier catch. This is probably one of the reasons for all the small pike. At the preceding trophic level, large panfish also appeared to be replaced by numerous small ones. This could have been due to a shift in species since some sunfish species mature at only half the length of those commonly fished. Now the system seems to be restabilizing with a dominant fauna that includes larger but smallish 5-inch panfish. Top predators now seem to be mostly largemouth bass only 8 or 10 inches in

length.

Why all the weeds? The trophic or feeding cascade normally begins with algae. One group is the blue-green algae or cyanobacteria associated with eutrophication and scums. Another group is the diatoms. They require both nitrogen and silicon. Either of these phytoplankters can dominate. Heavy populations can shade out the plants.

These algae are grazed by zooplankton, a broad group of small animals that can look like little shrimp. Panfish feed on the zooplankton, algal consumers that prevent dense blooms of algae. This helps explain why the most productive fishing lakes are not the clearest.

Zooplankton also consume cladoceran crustacea such as water fleas. They too consume plants and can be seen jumping around on rafts of seaweed. So when big fish eat small, they liberate zooplanktors and crustacea that might otherwise keep the pond weed in check.

A winner in the pond weed explosion is increased numbers of box turtles, but they are too few to clear out the pond weed. The cycle is completed with heterotrophic bacteria that resupply the plants with minerals and help begin the food chain as well. While ecosystem control includes feeding behavior and water chemistry, it appears that a main one may be ours. Overfished weedy lakes or leaving some big fish.

-Submitted by D. K. Button, is a professor of marine science and biochemistry Emeritus, University of Alaska, with a home in rural Webster

Survey seeks public input on fish and wildlife management MADISON – People who help support the management of Wisconsin’s fish and wildlife and their habitat through the purchase of hunting and fishing licenses, as well as those who pay taxes on the equipment and gear they purchase to pursue those activities, and everyone who cares about Wisconsin’s fish and wildlife, can help guide how those funds should be used in Wisconsin over the next six years.

Each year, the Department of Natural Resources receives approximately $15 million in federal grants to help manage sport fish and wildlife populations. A portion of the $68 million coming from the sale of state hunting and fishing licenses is used to match those federal funds. To receive the federal grants, the department must prepare a Fish, Wildlife and Habitat Management Plan to guide how those funds will be spent over the next six years.

“Wisconsinites care deeply about our state’s fish and wildlife and about their pursuit of outdoor recreation,” says DNR Secretary Scott Hassett. “We’re seeking their help in identifying major challenges and priorities for the next six years.”

Hassett notes that license funds and

federal grants enabled the department to carry out many of the priorities that were set in the 2001-2007 Fish, Wildlife and Habitat Management Plan.

Among the accomplishments: •Restoring 150 miles of trout streams and removing 32 dams to improve fish habitat; •Upgrading or building 180 boating and shore fishing access sites; •Leasing 72,000 acres of land each year for public hunting; •Stocking almost 70 million fish in Wisconsin waters and over 400,000 pheasants on public lands; •Restoring and maintaining 8,500 acres of wetlands and 200,000 acres of grasslands; •Fighting chronic wasting disease, and sampling for avian flu and West Nile Virus diseases; and •Hiring new warden recruit classes in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

“These are great times for hunters and anglers in Wisconsin and for everyone who cares about our natural resources,” Hassett says, “but it didn’t happen by accident. The financial sup-

port we receive from hunters and anglers enabled us, working with you, our partners, to provide the outdoor opportunities that makes Wisconsin home.”

In the past year: •Lake Michigan anglers reeled in the second-highest number of Chinook in 40 years; •Anglers caught more than 60 musky over 48 inches, including a 54-pound 10-ounce monster from the Lower Fox River and a 51-pound, 2-ounce Vilas County fish; •Hunters harvested just under 500,000 white-tailed deer, the state’s third-highest total ever; •Anglers set seven new state fish records; •A record number of hunters were able to enjoy spring and fall turkey hunting seasons; and •Wisconsin ranked in the top five states in harvest of black bear, ruffed grouse, and wild turkey.

DNR staff have begun to identify numerous natural resources management challenges and priorities for the

next six years. These include changing land use patterns and habitat loss, conflicts among outdoor recreation users, invading, non-native species and wildlife diseases, a Wisconsin population that is increasingly more urban, providing a variety of fish and wildlife recreation opportunities for a diverse public, conserving declining species and threatened habitats and passing along a conservation ethic to the next generation.

“These are some of the challenges and priorities from our perspective, but we need to hear from the public and what it thinks is important,” Hassett says.

People can fill out an online survey through the DNR Web site or may print a questionnaire off the Web site and mail it to the department.

“We need your help to shape a plan to safeguard and improve outdoor opportunities for the future,” Hassett says.

“Help us develop Wisconsin’s game plan for assuring that our children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy the same great fish and wildlife resources we now enjoy.” For more information contact Barb Zellmer at 608-266-8724. – Submitted by the DNR

Butch’s Northwest Archery Bowhunting League Week 10 Knoop Construction: 606 A&H Taxidermy: 583 Gronning’s Tree Service: 578 Whitetail Lodge: 565 A&H Country Market: 565 Melton Sandblasting: 565 White Birch Printing: 561 Dill Weeds: 548 Becky’s: 542 Bank of the West: 530 Theoutpostmall.com: 518 B&B Disposal: 514 Century 21 Siren: 512 Big Mike’s Sport Shop: 494

Snags Sports Bar: 486 Bulldog Taxidermy: 476 Gluek: 460 The Shop: 439 Women’s Teams Chicog Pub: 512 Wild Bill’s: 440 Bass Lake Inn: 277 Father son-daughter team Glennco Transmission: 572 Dan King Agency: 513 Boom Truck Service: 500 Weis Guys: 420 Juniors Lipsie Pines: 432

Traditional Teams Shell Lake Pharmacy: 378 Wishful Thinking: 355 Peterson Construction: 335 C&J Sport Shop: 323 Husband & wife teams Sportsman’s Headquarters: 546 Bluegill Bar: 518 Scenic View Campgrounds: 507 Larsen Chev: 471 Audie’s Barn Board Crafts: 466 Parson’s Auto Body: 44

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PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Human resources department created at Polk County 2007 highway projects approved

by Mary Stirrat BALSAM LAKE — Months of discussion and planning resulted in the creation of a new county department Tuesday evening when the county board voted 20–1 to remove the human resources functions from the department of administration.

The DOA has included finance and human resources personnel, with finance Director Tonya Weinert overseeing both areas. She has answered to the county personnel committee for employee services and to the finance committee for financial services.

Once the split is complete, the personnel committee will govern the new human resources department and the department of administration, with Weinert as department head, will report to the finance committee.

The human services department will have three fulltime employees and the department of administration will have 4.8.

There has been no human resources director since December 2005, and human resources manager Andrea Jerrick has been handling the director duties in the meantime. She will remain as interim director throughout the hiring process for a department head, but with increased compensation for the additional duties.

“I am in support (of creating a new department) and looking forward to the opportunity of being compensated for the level of work I have been doing,” Jerrick told the supervisors.

Voting against the change was Supervisor Neil Johnson. Supervisors Kim O’Connell and Gary Bergstrom were absent from the meeting.

Highway projects Nine road projects included in the 2007 highway budget were given final approval in accordance with the county’s purchasing policy that requires board approval for all public works costing more than $150,000.

Three of the nine projects are less than the purchasing policy requirement, but all were presented to the county board.

Total cost for all the projects is $2.066 million.

The biggest ticket items are a partial pulverizing and paving on a section of CTH A at $499,000, and a wedge and overlay of part of CTH Y at $498,000. At the lower end are a culvert replacement on CTH K, at $60,000, and preliminary dirt work on a segment of CTH N, at $91,266.

Other projects are an intersection and pavement on CTH K ($200,000), a safety enhancement project on CTH Z ($150,000), culvert and ditching on a segment of CTH H ($200,000), chip seals on CTH K, CTH V, and CTH D ($242,655), and an ultra-thin overlay on part of

the opportunity to continue the cooperative venture.

Responding to state funding cuts, the board voted to support a resolution asking that the state of Wisconsin use recycling funds only for recycling programs.

The state of Wisconsin has mandated recycling programs in local municipalities, including counties, and originally promised to cover 66 percent of the costs.

Municipalities are currently reimbursed less than 30 percent, according to the resolution, with more than $80 million in recycling funds used to pay for other state programs during the last four budget cycles.

The resolution will be forwarded to state legislators and the governor.

Polk County Recycling Center received the 2007 Outstanding Achievement in Recycling Award presented by the Associated Recyclers of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America. With the plaque are Debbie Peterson, director of the county parks, buildings and solid waste department, and county Supervisor Mick Larsen, chairman of the county property committee. — Photo by Mary Stirrat CTH Z ($125,000).

The projects were selected using a state rating system that utilizes traffic levels and road condition, said Supervisor Marvin Caspersen, chairman of the highway committee.

Recycling center A grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is allowing a cooperative recycling program of plastic nursery pots and seedling trays to be established between Polk, Burnett and Washburn counties.

Each county is developing a process of collecting the previously unrecycled materials that have, in the past, been landfilled. Polk County Recycling Center has a mobile baling unit that will be used to bundle the materials, and Polk County will be responsible for its disposal.

A market for the materials has been located at an Iowa plastics recycling firm, according to the resolution establishing the agreement.

The collaborative agreement should increase revenue for the recycling programs in each county, as well as providing an outlet for materials not previously recycled.

The agreement will run through October 2007, with

Ayers files small claims suit against town TOWN OF CLAM FALLS - Brad Ayers has filed a small claims suit against the town of Clam Falls board and its chairman this week, asking for $5,000 in damages for acting to “interfere with and violate plaintiff’s civil rights by threat, harassment, protracted negligence endangering the plaintiff’s and public safety” as well as hindering his “reasonable use of the public

roadway” which is sole access to his home.

Ayers has asked the Polk County District Attorney to consider filing criminal charges against the town for placing a 55-mile-per-hour speed limit sign on 85th Street, the road his home is on. He claims the speed limit is unsafe for the gravel road and the town is negligent in not addressing his concern. - submitted

Hydrant ring causes Unity pool to drain

by Mary Stirrat BALSAM Lake — An aged part on a fire hydrant installed to draw water, in case of fire, off the pool at Unity School gave way sometime in the night Tuesday, March 13, draining all 127,000 gallons of water.

The pool has been closed since last Wednesday, but school officials expect it to be open again by tonight, March 21.

Acids in the water working for the past 27 years on a breakaway ring in the hydrant finally destroyed the ring enough that it broke, said Unity’s maintenance supervisor Bob Robinson.

Kindergarten teacher Gina Sarow, coming in for an

early swim Wednesday morning, met Robinson at the door to say the pool was four feet low, he said.

With no way to stop the flow, the entire pool drained, with water warm enough to take the frost out of the ground and soak in.

Darryl Ince, public works director for the village of Balsam Lake, got parts and helped get the hydrant back together, said Robinson.

“We had to fill the pool and clean it, then get the chemicals and water temperature back up,” he said.

The water used to fill the pool was 52 degrees, according to Robinson, while the pool temperature is maintained at 82 degrees.

County designates April 2 - 6 as Work Zone Safety Awareness Week BALSAM LAKE — The Polk County Board of Supervisors Tuesday evening approved a resolution establishing April 2-6 as Work Zone Safety Awareness Week.

In doing so, they are joining in a nationwide observance first established in 1999 by the Federal Highway Administration and the American Association of State

Highway Officials.

According to the resolution, more than 1,000 people are killed each year in work zones across the nation, either as drivers, passengers or pedestrians.

For the past few years in Wisconsin alone, there have been more than 1,200 accidents and an average of 15 deaths each year. — Mary Stirrat

Landfill property The board voted to pursue civil action for a money judgment against St. Croix River Valley Landfill for delinquent property taxes on a landfill by Osceola.

Delinquent property taxes in the amount of $13,897 have accrued since 2002, but the county has had to pay out taxes to the other taxing entities.

The board agreed that, because it is a landfill, the county does not want to pursue taking the property by tax deed, and pursuing civil action could result in recouping some of the taxes paid out.

Co-owner Randy Deiss and landfill consultant Randy Smith spoke to the board during the public comment portion of the meeting, stating that the property is incorrectly assessed.

The county’s tax information indicates that the property and improvements are assessed at about $135,000.

Smith said that the owner has the responsibility of managing the site, at $35,000 to $75,000 per year, for the next 20 years. It is not usable for any purpose, even planting trees, he said, and would cost approximately $10 million to clean up.

The owner needs a court-ordered reassessment of the property, said corporation counsel Jeff Fuge, and the county has no role to play in that action.

Pursuing a civil suit, said Fuge, is “a prudent step for the county.”

Voting against the civil suit were supervisors Neil Johnson and Rodney Littlefield. Absent from the meeting were supervisors Kim O’Connell and Gary Bergstrom.

Other business • Finance Director Tonya Weinert reported that the preliminary 2006 audit has been completed with a final report expected in late May, which is two months earlier than previous years. Overall, she said, the county can expect a $350,000 increase in its fund balance.

• The board approved a $1 per hour increase for temporary secretarial support staff that have completed 1,040 hours of work for Polk County. This is the first increase in about seven years, according to Supervisor Gerald Newville.

• The board went on record supporting the addition of a second assistant district attorney. Polk County has had two prosecuting attorneys since 1976, while the number of judges has doubled since that time and the county and municipal law enforcement personnel has more than doubled to 90. Both Dunn County and Pierce County, with a similar population base, each have one district attorney and two assistant district attorneys.

Polk County at Northwest Sports Show MINNEAPOLIS - The Polk County Information Center will be promoting Polk County with a booth at the 75th-annual Northwest Sportshow, March 27 to April 1, at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

Volunteers from the area will be handing out Polk County-specific information, including the new 2007 Polk County Visitors Guidebook, featuring information on the communities and events that make Polk County a great place to explore.

The Polk County Information Center, located in St. Croix Falls, coordinates the availability of Polk County information at over a dozen travel shows a year, from Chicago to the Twin Cities, and is responsible for promoting Polk County to the world.

For more information call 800-222-POLK or visit www.polkcountytourism.com. - submitted

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

25th-annual Emergency Services Conference held at Telemark Lodge

“Messiah” to be performed at St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix Valley Orchestra will be presenting Handel’s “Messiah” the weekend before Easter in two locations in this area. This is the 16th season for the chamber orchestra which was spawned by the enthusiastic response of musicians who got together to perform “Messiah” in 1991. This performance will include outstanding vocal soloists, and accompaniment for the audience to sing nine of the marvelous choruses that Handel wrote. The orchestra is made of about 35 players who come from the St. Croix valley area, under the direction of Randolph Elliott.

Joe Walsh from North Ambulance, Webster, was among 309 EMT, first responders and fire department members that attended the Emergency Services Conference on Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10, at Telemark Lodge in Cable. – Photo by Rick Lemonds

The first concert will be at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lindström, Minn., on Saturday, March 31, at 7:30 p.m., the second will be at Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Croix Falls on Sunday, April 1,. at 3 p.m.

The soloists are soprano Darlene Romportl of Taylors Falls, Minn., alto Kathy Williamson of Amery, tenor Bill Bender of Forest Lake, Minn., and bass Ronald Brace of Dresser.

With support of some local businesses, admission is offered by donation at the concerts. For more information see the orchestra Web site www.scvorchestra.org. - submitted

Subscribe today online @ www.the-leader.net

Organic livestock and poultry production workshops offered HAYWARD - Are you interested in learning what’s required to produce and sell organically certified livestock or poultry? Are you looking for an alternative marketing option for your fresh, farm-raised meat? To help producers with these questions and other opportunities in organic production, UW-Extension and the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service will be sponsoring workshops to help answer these questions on

Tuesday, April 3, in Balsam Lake and Wednesday, April 4, in Hayward.

The Balsam Lake workshop will be held in the west conference room of the Balsam Lake Government Center, and the Hayward event will be held at the Veterans Community Center, located on corner of Hwy. 63 and Main Street. Both workshops are scheduled from 6 until 8:30 p.m.

These workshops will be reviewing organic production methods with a

focus on raising organic feed crops, animal health management and specific organic certification requirements. The featured speaker will be organic certifier and MOSES outreach coordinator Harriet Behar.

Whether you have a backyard flock, a whole herd of cattle, or an interest in the supply of organic feed, this is your opportunity to find out exactly what is involved in the organic certification and marketing process.

All participants will receive a packet of reference materials. There is no cost to attend either of these workshops; however, preregistration is required up until the day of the event. For more information and to register for Balsam Lake contact Ryan Sterry, Polk County Ag Agent at 715-485-8600 or for Hayward contact Kevin Schoessow, Spooner Area Ag Agent at 715-635-3506 or 1-800-528-1914. – from UW-Extension

Siren police report March 11: At 3:36 a.m., the Siren officer on duty observed a car make a right-hand turn from the rear parking lot of the Pour House onto D’Jock Street, with the car driving over a snowbank and onto the curb. According to the report, several people then got out of the truck, and were chased by the officer and a deputy into the brush off Lind Road parallel to CTH B. The officers located Tristen D. Oustigoff, 22, Webster, who was cited for obstructing justice, and Percy W. Benjamin, 28, Webster, who was given a similar citation for resisting/obstructing an officer. The owner of the vehicle, Conrad E. St. John, 23, Webster, came into the Siren Police Department the following day to ask about the hold put on his vehicle. He then went to pick up the vehicle at Southside Auto. The report stated that notification was mailed

to St. John that day, citing him for reckless driving and obstruction of justice (running from an officer).

At 6:36 p.m., the Siren officer assisted another agency in the Grantsburg area in the apprehension of Rodney M. Staples, 40, Danbury on alleged domestic-abuse charges.

March 14: A report was received at 7 p.m. regarding a broken window at a residence in the Siren Trailer Court. A suspect was not located at the time the police report was written, but the report stated that Theresa Patterson, 43, Siren, would be cited for domestic disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property.

March 17: At 6:08 p.m., Matthew C. Kubista, 22, Sarona, was cited for operating while intoxicated, having an open intoxicant in the vehicle, operating after revocation, reck-

less driving and operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher. Kubista was stopped on Hwy. 70 and Railroad Street.

March 18: At 1:18 p.m., two individuals were spotted urinating in an open field along Hwy. 35/70 just north of Lake Street and south of Fourwinds Market.

The men were identified as Jesse A. Patten, 23, Suamico; and Andrew A. Hanvold. The name Hanvold was later found to be a false identification used

by Craig J. Hodovanic, 20, Cornell. Hanvold was the name of a former police officer from Pigeon Falls who was killed in the line of duty. Hodowanic was to be charged with felony identification theft in addition to underage drinking, lewd and lascivious behavior and resisting/obstructing an officer. Lewd and lascivious behavior/indecent behavior was the charge

against Patten.

At 6 p.m., a lost ATM card was returned to Arlan Hansen, Osceola, at the Siren Police Department. The card had been left at the U. S. Bank ATM Friday, March 16, between 5 and 6 p.m.

Patricia Renee Kropidlowski, 42, Lindstrom, Minn., was cited for speeding at 4:45 p.m. on Hwy. 35/70 and Works Progress Street.

Maurice E. Smith, 61, Barron, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 35/70 and Works Progress Street at 5:15 p.m.

March 19: A check for $5.50, returned for insufficient funds, was reported by Lightning Video. The store management requested that the Siren Police Department follow up on collecting the amount of the check plus the $20 service fee.

Sara J. Bakke, 21, Webster, was cited for a seat belt violation

Burnett County criminal court Malinda S. McMahon, Siren, issue worthless checks, $249.00.

Amy Mangelsen, 42, Shell Lake, issue worthless checks, $249.00.

Bradley R. Reinhardt, Webster, issue worthless checks, $14.05 restitution, $249.00.

Gary J. Ziegelbauer, 54, Green Bay, speeding, $211.20.

Georgiana J. Carson, 24, Shell Lake, criminal damage to property, sentence imposed, two-year probation, restitution to be announced, $88.00.

Harlo L. Olson Jr., OAR,

$333.00.

Jason J. T. Kemp, possession of THC, license suspended six months, $273.00.

Curtis M. Enger, 35, Anoka, Minn., possession of methamphetamine, license suspended six months, sentence withheld, two-year probation, conditions of probation - jail time to be announced, alcohol treatment, provide DNA sample, $365.00.

William L. Mulroy, 54, Grantsburg, felon possess firearm, $500.00.

Shaun M. Klink, 24, Siren, burglary, sentence withheld, three-year probation, conditions

Burnett County deaths Louise D. Saunders, 76, Grantsburg Village, March 5.

Jane K. Westlund, 95, Daniels, March 3.

Charlotte M. Selander, 80, Trade Lake, March 5.

Patricia A. McDonough, 85, Siren Village, Feb. 24.

Wallace F. Davison, 82, Grantsburg Village, Feb. 19.

Jon A. Carson, 56, Siren Village, March 2.

of probation – five months’ jail time, psychology treatment, $2,977.16 restitution, $94.00.

Jeffrey L. Neilsen, 33, Grantsburg, cause injury when OWI, $1,591.05 restitution, alcohol assessment , 60 days’ jail time, license revoked 14 months.

Nicole L. Holcomb, 22, Superior, OWI, $1,020.00, alcohol assessment, 20 days’ jail time, license revoked 16 months.

Broderick T. Swain, 30 Detroit, Mich., possession of

at 3:05 p.m. on CTH B and Third Avenue.

Two instances of overdue videos were reported by Lightning Video. If the video game “Devil May Cry 3” is not returned by March 30, the person taking the video out will be

Polk County civil court Chase Home Finance LLC, Columbus, Ohio, plaintiff.

Jonathan and Tara Balthazor, Osceola, defendants. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $262,563.32.

U.S. Bank National Assoc., Owensboro, Ky., plaintiff.

Steven and Patricia Oswald, Osceola, defendants. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $151,416.28.

JH Larson Electrical Co., Plymouth, Minn., plaintiff. Layne Lovett, d/b/a L & L Electric, Clear Lake, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default on credit agreement and seeks payments of $8,816.18.

Alyce Bader-Onsted, Luck, plaintiff. Jacob A. Anderson, Luck, defendant. Plaintiff alleges negligence of defendant during accident where Bader-Onsted received personal injuries.

THC, obstructing and officer, $500.00.

Lawrence E. Bildeau, 23, Hertel, criminal damage to property, 10 days’ jail time consecutive to other convictions, $75.00; battery, nine months’ jail time consecutive to other convictions; resisting an officer, 30 days’ jail time consecutive to other convictions, $88.00; bail jumping, 30 days’ jail time consecutive to Accidents Town of Siren, March 14: other convictions, $77.00.

Jodi Maslow, 35, Siren, hit a deer.

Warrant arrests/other arrests Town of Webb Lake, March 14: Rabyrda D. Loomer, 30, Danbury, was arrested for domestic battery.

Northwest Wis., Anesthesiology SC vs. Laura B. and Jason D. Town of West Marshland, Hermersmann Martin Spooner, $440.75.

March 16: Charles F. Sprick, MRC Receivables Corp. vs. Ardith Kurowski, Grantsburg, 35, Grantsburg, was arrested for $1,376.85. theft, and Joshua D. Johnson, MRC Receivables Corp. vs. Gerald Kurowski, Grantsburg, 26, Wyoming, Minn., was arrest$2,528.72. ed on a warrant.

Webster Ace Hardware vs. Kevin Rand, Webster, $558.80.

Burnett Co. civil court

charged with theft. Another case of overdue videos involves “The Gridiron Gang” and “CARS.” The police department will notify those taking out these videos of action pending against them if the videos are not returned.

U.S. National Bank Assoc., Fort Mill, S.C., plaintiff. Robert Marek, Luck, defendant. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $78,765.89.

U.S. National Bank Assoc., Fort Mill, S.C., plaintiff. Teresa A. Johnson, Wyoming, Minn., defendant. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $103,479.87.

Green Tree Servicing, LLC, Tempe, Ariz., plaintiff. Donald and Evelyn Smith, Cushing, defendants. Plaintiff seeks mortgage foreclosure in amount of $21,243.87.

Household Finance Corp., III, Virginia Beach, Va., plaintiff.

Thor Jepsen, Milltown, defendant. Plaintiff alleges default on credit account payments and seeks $9,564.37.

Burnett Co. sheriff’s report Other incidents Town of LaFollette, March 12: Michael D. Rygg, 59, Circle Pines, Minn., reported a utility trailer taken from his cabin. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Swiss, March 18: Jeffrey A. Cook, 48, Eden Prairie, Minn., reported fishing and skiing items taken from a shed. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Lincoln, March 18: Jason A. Kirby reported a set of keys taken from his vehicle while he was at a local establishment.

The incident is under investigation.

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents March 2, 11:30 p.m., Clam Falls Twp., Main Avenue, 30’ east of Hwy. 35, NICHOLAS S. CARLSON, 21, Frederic, was turning right to turn east on Main Avenue from Hwy 35. The road was reportedly slippery. The vehicle struck a snow berm, which was pushed to the center of Main Avenue. The vehicle slid into the berm and overturned. The vehicle landed on its wheels. Driver was cited for failing to report the accident until two days later.

March 10, 10:18 p.m., Sundown Saloon parking lot, Clam Falls Twp., 3508 Hwy. 35; #1—Legally Parked vehicle owned by THERESA L. LUNDQUIST, Centuria; #2— JENNIFER L. ALDEN, 37, Frederic. Unit 1 was parked on the south side of the parking lot.

Unit 2 was backing out of the north lot and struck the rear driver’s side of unit 1, pushing the rear of unit 1 approximately two feet. Driver of unit 2 then left the parking lot.

Driver Alden was cited for hit and run unattended vehicle.

March 12, 5:15 a.m., Alden Twp., CTH K/60th Ave., .1 mile west of 140th Street, JESSIE M. STOCKTON, 18, Somerset, was traveling westbound on CTH K. The roads were wet with scattered slippery spots.

As unit 1 was coming out of a curve, the vehicle struck a slippery area. The vehicle spun out and entered the north ditch. The vehicle struck a small tree with the rear end. The vehicle then slid for several feet before coming to rest. The driver left the scene before the deputy arrived.

March 12, 6:55 p.m., Beaver

Twp., Hwy. 8 at Hwy. 63, #1— VICTORIA K. WILLY, 49, Clayton; #2—LAURIE A. MALCHOW, 43, Hudson; Unit 1 was stopped at Hwy. 63 stop sign at Hwy. 8 intersection. Unit 2 was traveling westbound on Hwy. 8.

Unit 1 failed to yield the right of way and collided with unit 2.

Unit 1 driver was cited for OWL, OAR, failure to yield and seat belt violation. Driver of unit 1 sustained a minor injury (no seat belt worn/transported by EMS).

Other incidents Feb. 12, a 16’ aluminum Starcraft boat with single-axle trailer were stolen from the MELISSA ANDERSON residence, Clear Lake Township.

Feb. 13, RONALD BASSANY reported the theft of a water pressure tank and copper tubing from a residence located in Georgetown Twp.

Feb. 13, WALTER J. HRUSKA, Balsam Lake Township, reported the attempted break-in to his shed located on his property in Balsam Lake Twp. Feb. 14, CHRISTOPHER J. RITENOUR, RR Cushing, reported the theft of a red, plastic toolbox; red, metal tool box, with wrenches; Snap-On tools in red tool box; Snap-On brand torque wrench; electric chisel, and impact wrench from his garage located at his residence.

Feb. 15, DEANNE M. MILLER, RR Clayton, reported the theft of copper tubing from her residence located in Georgetown Twp. Feb. 16, MICHAEL S. PETZEL, RR Frederic, mailbox vandalism, West Sweden Twp. Feb. 17, BRIAN D. JOHNSON, RR Clear Lake, mailbox vandalism.

Polk County criminal court Christine Walker, 43, Star Prairie, child abuse - intentionally cause harm. Signature bond set of $5,000. Preliminary hearing set for July 10.

Sandra Sanders, 43, Clayton, resisting/obstructing an officer, vehicle operator

fleeing/eluding an officer.

Preliminary hearing set for May 22.

Bradley Bearhart, 39, Clayton, vehicle operator fleean officer. ing/eluding Preliminary hearing set for May 22. Signature bond set of $2,000.

Lawrence A. Peterson, 25, Dresser, possession of methamphetamine. Signature bond set of $5,000. Preliminary hearing set for May 22.

Shondra McFaggen, 23, Hertel, pled not guilty to battery

by prisoners.

Gregory Gunderson, 38, Centuria, pled not guilty to OWI, operating with PAC .08 or more.

Review set for June 15.

Jon Clark, 58, Balsam Lake, pled not guilty to OWI, operating with PAC .08 or more. Signature bond set of $1,500. Review set for June 1.

Michael Martines, 23, Amery, pled not guilty to OWI, operating with a PAC of .08 or more. Signature bond set of $1,500. Review set for June 8.

Shawn Phetteplace, 32, Dresser, pled not guilty to disorderly conduct. Review set for June 1.

David Sampson, 30, Pine City, Minn., pled not guilty to resisting/obstructing an officer.

Review set for June 1.

Marcia Thatcher, 27, Clayton, pled not guilty to possession of marijuana. Review set for June 1.

Jon Underwood, 44, Frederic, pled not guilt to disorderly conduct. Review June 8.

Joseph D. Smith, 23, Balsam Lake, pled not guilty to disorderly conduct. Review is May 11.

Daniel Engler, 55, Clear Lake, pled not guilty to bail jumping. Signature bond set of $1,000. Review set for May 1.

Taylor Nelson, 17, St. Croix Falls, pled not guilty to possession of marijuana. Signature bond set of $500. Review set for June 1.

Feb. 18, vandalism and burglary occurred to the RIVERVIEW CATERING business in the village of Milltown.

One bottle of liquor was missing.

Feb. 19, GREGORY J. LINDELL, RR Osceola, reported the theft of his paddleboat, Sun Cruiser brand, tan in color, from his property.

Feb. 19, LEE RASMUSSEN, RR Dresser, reported the theft of 80 pounds of copper from his property.

Feb. 20, TREVOR A. OTTO, RR Frederic, reported the theft of a Marlin lever-action .30-30 rifle and a Remington 870, .12gauge pump shotgun from his property.

Feb. 21, SHIRLEY A. BELISLE, RR Amery, reported the theft of an electric meter and wiring to a utility pole on her property.

Feb. 22, vandalism to the ATLAS GENERAL STORE— windows smashed.

Feb. 23, PAUL COURTEAU, Spring Lake Park, Minn., reported the theft of several auto parts from property near Cushing.

Feb. 25, ROBERT L. GOODLAD, Star Prairie, reported the theft of signs that prohibit water skipping on Cedar Lake.

Feb. 25, JERRY RAYGOR, RR Dresser, reported the theft of cash from his vehicle and residence.

March 4, BRIAN KUHN, RR New Richmond, reported the theft of his 2002 Arctic Cat 800ZR snowmobile from a trail between Amery and Clear Lake.

March 4, GERALD L SENSKE, RR Osceola, reported the theft of his ATN Guardian brand security camera (appears to be an alarm clock) from his property.

March 5, TROY M. LEE, Star Prairie, reported the theft of some metal construction signs at the Poplar Lake Estates in St. Croix Falls Twp.

March 8, theft of gasoline from the JONZY’S MARKET business located in rural Balsam Lake.

March 9, RAYMOND A. KOCH, Balsam Lake, reported the theft of a Hitachi finish nail gun, Paslode brad nail gun, 61/2” Skil saw, and a remote control key ring from his pickup truck.

March 10, MICHAEL H. WILLIS, Osceola Twp., reported the theft of his company laptop computer from his vehicle while parked at his residence.

March 10, a burglary occurred sometime during the evening of March 9 to March 10 to the ST. LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH in the village of Frederic.

Taken were a 27” Emerson TV, silver in color; Emerson DVD/VCR combo; black-colored VCR; portable DVD player, silver in color and an unknown amount of change.

March 12, daytime burglary occurred at the residence of ROBERT F. CURTIS, RR Star Prairie. A men’s black leather jacket and 12 DVDs were taken.

March 13, KENNETH L NELSON, RR Frederic, reported mailbox vandalism, Clam Falls Twp. March 13, burglary occurred to the GORDON CRAN residence. Change and DVDs were stolen.

March 14, 10 p.m., Polk County dispatch received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle in a residential driveway, located in Luck Twp. Deputies arrived and located the driver and passenger of the vehicle.

Upon investigating, it was found that the driver of the vehicle, TIMOTHY CLARK, 42, Frederic, had burglarized a shed at 2627 140th Street in Luck Twp. Two chain saws and a welder were recovered from the Clark vehicle and Clark was taken into custody.

Polk County divorces Divorces filed Terrence and Denise Twiest, St. Croix Falls. Married 2000. One child.

Jennifer Swager, Dresser, and Glenn Swager, Luck. No children.

Jessie and Trevor McCurdy, St. Croix Falls.

Married 2004. One child.

Molly Mooney, Centuria, and Dwayne Mooney, Duluth.

Married 1989. Two children.

Kathryn and Larry Pederson, Clear Lake. Married 1981. No children.

Rebecca Daley-Ballew, Amery, and Wallace Ballew, address unknown. Married 2003. No children.

Jacky and Blake Kunkel, Amery. Married 1995. No children.

Joseph and Sarah Harrington, Osceola. Married 2001. Two children.

Divorces granted James and Kathy Jantz.

Married 1986. One child.

Jeffrey and Cindy Holdt.

Married 1995. No children.

Benjamin and Shondra Pepin. Married 2004. No children.

Notices

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Notices/ Employment Opportunities

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

Employment Opportunities/ Notices

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

Notices

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

Minong man loses life in Iraq MINONG - A Minong man who attended school briefly in Shell Lake lost his life in Iraq during combat operations last Saturday, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.

Lance Cpl. Harry H. Timberman, 20, was assigned to 2n Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division 1 Marine Expeditionary Force out of Twentynine Palms, Calif.

He attended Northwood High School in Minong from 2001 to 2004 and finished his senior year at the Washburn County Alternative High School in Shell Lake. Timberman and his mother moved to Minong from Colorado in 2001.

“He had such a life and such a presence,” Northwood School guidance counselor Rosemary Doyle told Minnesota Public Radio. “He was a

Lance Cpl. Harry Timberman funny kid and full of spirit. He was a giving kid. He was in our peer helper group.”

Doyle said Timberman’s fiancee, Carla Gustafson, and his mother, Cynthia Coshow, are taking it hard.

“She’s just overwhelmed; not taking calls. And, you know, very appreciative of all the good wishes, though. They just want the story on Harry, what a neat kid he was, how proud of him everyone is, and how much he’ll be missed. We just can’t even believe it actually happened.”

Timberman was on the Northwood wrestling team for two years, Dave Klaas, former wrestling coach for Northwood School, told the Superior Daily Telegram. “He was a lot of fun to be around,” he said. “[Monday] was a quiet day at school.”

Timberman joined the Marines in August of 2005 and was sent to Iraq in January, according to Gunnery Sgt.

Chris Cox, a spokesman for the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms.

After completing basic training, Timberman “came back to school to show off his uniform,” Klaas said. “He was very proud to be serving his country.”

Timberman is survived by his mother in Minong, as well as his father, Harry Timberman, two brothers and a sister who live in Colorado. No plans have been announced for funeral services.

Timberman is the 70th soldier from Wisconsin to die in the Iraq war. As of Sunday, at least 3,217 members of the U.S. military have died in Iraq. - with information from Minnesota Public Radio, Superior Daily Telegram and Duluth News-Tribune

Recycling center employees receive award

Employees at the recycling center were presented with an award of excellence at the March 20 county board meeting. The center received the 2007 Outstanding Achievement in Recycling from the Associated Recyclers of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America. From left are Mick Larsen, chairman of the county property committee, recycling center foreman Mike Voltz, employees Jerry Peterson with Brian Johnston behind, employee Steve Reed, office manager Kim Mortensen, employees Martha Heier, Donnell Anderson, Ryan Peirce, Chad Lillie, and Marty Hansen, and parks, buildings and solid waste director Debbie Peterson. On the table is the Governor’s Award that the center received in 1996. — Photo by Mary Stirrat BALSAM LAKE — Men and women from the Adult Development Center who work at the Polk County Recycling Center were recognized for their hard work during the March 20 meeting of the county board of supervisors. The recycling center was selected to receive this year’s Outstanding Achievement in Recycling award from the Associated Recyclers of

Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America.

“This award belongs to the recycling center employees for their hard work, dedication, and expertise,” said Debbie Peterson, director of parks, buildings and solid waste for Polk County.

Since the county recycling program began in 1988 it

has collaborated with the Adult Development Center, said Peterson. In 1996 the center received the Governor’s Award for excellence.

In appreciation for their hard work, employees from the Adult Development Center received an award of excellence and a pin. — Mary Stirrat

Gearing up for the Frederic Finish Line

Elvira Schmidt, the chair for the Frederic Area Run-Walk Finish Line, (MIDDLE) receives donations from walk sponsors Linda Claussen of Amery Regions Medical Center (RIGHT) and Phyllis Wilder of Larsen Auto. The annual walk will be held on May 12 to benefit the American Cancer Society. – Photos by Matt Blumkin

Honorary chair Sandy Hacker is picture with the quilt, which was made for the walk.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - MARCH 21, 2007

Crex Meadows

Among the new exhibits at Crex Meadows Wildlife Area near Grantsburg are a hunter’s cabin (photo at left) and photos showing the history of Crex, including the story of the carpet company that operated here for years, making grass rugs that were sold nationally. - Photos by Gregg Westigard

New exhibits open at Crex Meadows, Visitors center provides intro to wildlife area

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG - The new exhibits at the Crex Meadows Visitors Center were opened last weekend. The centerpiece of the new displays is a large diorama displaying a group of prairie chickens in

their mating ritual and a group of ducks on one of the ponds. For visitors not lucky enough to get into the heart of Crex, this offers a good view of what the 30,000 acre wildlife area is about.

Much of the history of the Crex Meadows area is also explained, including the story of the carpet company that operated here for years, making grass rugs that were sold nationally. A hunter's cabin has also been constructed. The displays, with well-written explanations of the area and its animals and plants, are an excellent way to start

a visit to the nationally acclaimed nature area.

The entire new display area was built with funds raised by the Friends of Crex. With over 500 members, this is the largest volunteer support group for any Wisconsin nature area. The Friends of Crex, who held their annual benefit dinner last Saturday, have raised an endowment of over $500,000 to support Crex Meadows and its programs.

The Friends also operate the Bog Shoe book and gift shop at the visitors center.

The shop offers a large selection of

nature guides, including the new Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Wisconsin.

The visitors center is open during the day Monday through Friday and on weekends from April through October.

The 30,000-acre Crex Meadows Wildlife Area is open year-round.

New bird atlas a treasure of information Learn about the birds in your yard

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBIRG – The Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Wisconsin is out, and it will tell you everything you want to know about the birds in your backyard.

When does the species nest and where?

How common are they? Are they becoming more common? What do they eat? The book tells you this and more about every bird that nests in the state.

Does the red-bellied woodpecker come to your feeder? You can learn that this colorful bird is expanding its territory, likes mature hardwoods, and nests in tree cavities from late April into June.

The red-bellied usually lays four eggs.

Both parents share the incubation and feed the young. The birds are expanding

into Polk and Burnett counties.

The book has a two-page spread for each of the 214 species common in the state plus additional details on a number of seldom-reported species including the Nelson's sharp-tailed sparrow, first confirmed as a breeding bird in the state in 2000 at Crex. For each species there is a page of information written by one of the 75 writers who compiled the book, a photo of the bird, a map showing the breeding range, a chart showing breeding dates, and a chart showing the population trends from 1966 to the present.

Two of the editors of this large book, Noel Cutright and Bettie Harriman, told the story of its writing and publication last Saturday at the Friends of Crex 2007 Benefit Dinner at Crex Meadows near Grantsburg. They said that the atlas was the idea of the third editor, Robert Howe, a professor of natural sciences at UW-Green Bay. He started promoting the idea in 1993, recruiting ornitholo-

gists Cutright and Harriman to the project. The three led a steering committee of about 18 persons, all volunteers, who coordinated the project.

By the time the field research was completed in 2000, over 1,600 more volunteers had joined in the research doing field documentation. All the information was gathered and compiled, after which the 75 authors, also volunteers, started writing the species profiles. It took an additional six years to get the book written and printed. The atlas was published in 2006 by the Wisconsin Society for Ornithologists.

The book has much more than the profiles of the 214 species. There are long sections on the history of birding in Wisconsin, details on the varied habitats in the state, and a section on bird conservation. The 602-page book is a wealth of information.

The centerpiece of the new displays is a large diorama displaying a group of prairie chickens in their mating ritual and a group of ducks on one of the ponds. - Photos by Gregg Westigard

Many ways to explore Crex Meadows Visits not limited to cars

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG - The 30,000 acres of wetlands, prairies, and forests are easily explored by car. Miles of roads take visitors along the dikes and through the woods, bringing people close to the many birds, including trumpeter swans

and sandhill cranes, that nest in the wildlife refuge. Visitors of all ages come to Crex year-round, year after year, to enjoy nature.

But there are more ways to enjoy this site, called one of the top nature-watching spots in the nation. You can bring your bike, canoe, and hiking boots and get into the heart of Crex Meadows, entering the home area of the many birds, insects, and animals that make their home here.

Crex Meadows is an ideal location for biking. The loop roads are flat and

smooth, even the routes not paved. On a bike, you get the feel and hear the sounds missed from the seat of a car.

You often get much closer to the many Crex residents and see things missed otherwise. With a bike, you can dip into the sandy fire lanes and side routes that might get a car stuck.

Visitors can also take to the water in a canoe or kayak and go deep into the heart of the area, away from all people.

While some of the ponds and lakes may be low at times, there is usually enough water in Phantom Lake and North Fork

Flowage for mobility. You will be with the birds, turtles, and animals at their level.

Crex is also great for hiking and walking. Stop at any of the dozens of parking areas and set off on foot. You can walk for miles on some of the routes. Far from cars and people, hikers hear sounds and sense the smells of the wild.

Crex Meadows is a year-round, lifetime destination, but many of its treasurers are beyond the reach of the car.

‘Follow the Leader’

M arch 21, 2007 • 2nd Se c t i on B• Inter-County Le a de r

Currents N O R T H E R N

THE LEADER’S COMMUNITY NEWS

Riverwalk projects leads to Eagle Scout award Project completed for SCF Riverwalk

by Julie Holmquist ST. CROIX FALLS - Sunday was a momentous day for 18-year-old Peter Weber of St. Croix Falls.

Friends, family and St. Croix Falls residents were on hand Sunday afternoon at the Festival Theatre to congratulate Weber following the presentation of his Eagle Scout Award.

Al Wampfler, assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 160 of St. Croix Falls, noted that only 2 percent of the boys joining the Boys Scouts of America end up earning the Eagle Scout Award.

As part of the community service requirement to earn the Eagle Scout Award, Weber created a historical marker for St. Croix Falls that commemorates the log jams on the river during its logging heydays.

Weber said he started the project two years ago and spent about 120 hours on the project. He said he arrived at the idea after he realized that there was not a single sign about the log jams in the area.

The sign is now placed at the new Gaylord Nelson Riverwalk in St. Croix Falls.

“Peter has completed about 325 requirements to earn the Eagle Scout

“What Peter has achieved shows that he’s a young man qualified to help others and take care of himself,” - Al Wampfler

Peter Weber received his Eagle Scout Award Sunday afternoon. Creating this historical marker commemorating log jams in SCF during the logging days was his Eagle Scout project. - Photo by Julie Holmquist

Award,” said Wampfler at the awards ceremony. Weber’s award, Wampfler said, is a symbol of all Weber has learned over the years in Scouting.

“He’s an outdoorsman,” he said. “He’s comfortable with nature, he can identify plants… He worked on an environmental problem; he knows how to treat frostbite, muscle cramps…

“He knows what to do in cases of emergency,” Wampfler continued. “He’s a good citizen. He’s been to many governmental meetings and has read the Constitution. He wrote a senator about an issue. He knows what it means to be physically, mentally and socially fit.”

“What Peter has achieved shows that he’s a young man qualified to help others and take care of himself,” Wampfler said. “He’s very deserving of the Eagle Scout Award.”

Weber’s Cub Scout Master Dean Roush also spoke at the event.

“Peter has always been a great leader,” Roush said, after joking that Weber, now taller than Roush, was much shorter when he was a Cub Scout.

At the end of the ceremony, Weber thanked all the people who helped make his Eagle project a success, including his parents, Jeffrey and Cindy Weber of St. Croix Falls.

He thanked his mother for the times she stayed up late at night to help finish Boy Scout projects, and thanked his father for taking him camping.

LEFT: Weber’s parents, Jeffrey and Cindy, took part in the Eagle Scout Award ceremony Sunday.

Glen Museus, right, Scoutmaster of Troop 160 of St. Croix Falls, presented the award. - Photo by Julie Holmquist

“Peter Pan” presented at Frederic Page 13

Inside

Luck Library and Museum building kickoff Page 2

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

Luck Library & Museum kickoff

Residents of the Luck and surrounding community met for Live at the Lot Saturday, celebrating the community kickoff of the library/museum building project. Groundbreaking for the building is planned for this fall.

About 280 people took part in the community kickoff for the new Luck library and museum building project that was held Saturday.

The event started at the Main Street site where the new facility will be built, then moved to the Danish Brotherhood Society hall for what some jokingly referred to as the biggest Danish St. Patrick’s Day party ever. The Luck Fire Department’s snorkel truck allowed photographs of the site, with the footprint of the building outlined in orange, to be taken from a bird’s-eye view.

Getting an aerial view of Luck and the new library/museum site, thanks to the Luck Fire Department and firefighter Eric Olson.

Mr. Feathers from “Tales of the Fourth Grade Nothing,” aka Jessica Glover, 11.

Photos by Mary Stirrat

The Invisible Man was unveiled, revealing none other than Spike Maiden Mueller.

He won an invisible prize in the costume contest.

Leona Cummings of Frederic presented a program on rural living, sharing stories and artifacts from the past 100 years. At left is Tam Howie of the Luck library/museum steering committee.

History and literature can make strange bedfellows, with such characters as Robin Hood (Joey Nargis, 4) and Davey Crockett (Joshua Stirrat, 7) enjoying childhood together.

Anders Eleven-month-old Dueholm enjoys the program, while grandmother Dianne Dueholm enjoys Anders.

Tam Howie, with paper, unveils the thermometer marking the progress of fundraising for the Luck Library/Museum building project. More than $500,000 has been committed to the building fund so far. The budget for the building is $750,000 with an additional $250,000 for an endowment fund to help with operating costs.

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Spring Is In the Air

by Joyce Thompson, Amery

Land awakening Throwing off its covers Lakes of muddy water Mini rivers of melted snow Bright sunshine Warm breezes Cerulean blue sky White cottonball clouds Gold and purple crocus Tulips and hyacinths peeking up Sweet bird songs Robins leaning on tail feathers Pulling fat earthworms from the ground Swelling tree buds Honking geese Dingy brown lawn turning green

Writer s Corner contest LEADER LAND – Do you have a fish tale to tell? The Writer’s Corner is looking for the best fish story to feature in May 2 issue, just before the fishing opener. If we receive several good stories, we will run a series during May. So sharpen your pencil and send or e-mail your stories to the Leader office.

If you e-mail your entry, put Writer’s Corner in the subject box.

Stories should be 800 words or less and be submitted by April 2.

Thunder, lightning, rain Children outdoors Running, shouting, riding bikes W e a r i n g sweaters and jackets Coats left behind People walking aimlessly Just enjoying being outdoors Thoughts turn to gardening Mowing lawn Picnics Fishing Reading a book in the gazebo Yes, Spring is in the air And it never gets here too soon.

Writer’s Corner

A Wild Goose Chase

by Brenda Mayer

A few years ago on a November day my friend, Pat, went to Rice Lake to have her hair cut. Pat took the back roads over as there was less traffic and it was a pretty drive and more relaxing.

On the way she passed a small lake and was very upset at what she saw.

There seemed to be a goose stuck in the ice. However, she continued on her way to the beauty shop with the goose on her mind. As she started to tell the beautician the story, the lady next to her

said that she too had seen a goose that was frozen in the ice. Between them they finally decided the best thing to do was to call the DNR. They reached a DNR secretary who said she did not think the DNR would be too concerned about the goose. Pat was not at all happy with the call to that secretary, but there was nothing more to do but to go home. When she got home she told Roger, her husband, about the problem and would he please go and rescue it.

Roger decided that this was more than a one-man job so he finally located Don, my husband, and asked him if he would go over to the lake to help him rescue the goose.

By then, all the boats were put away for the winter. So they had to get the boat from under all the covers. As they started to load the boat onto the trailer, they discovered that squirrels had chewed through the wires—they didn’t have any taillights. It was going to be dark before they returned home. Thus, a 14-foot boat was loaded on the back of an 8-foot truck and secured with bungee cords. They got out life jackets and oars. As Pat was watching this operation from the deck, she called out to Roger to remember to take some corn to feed the goose. Don said to himself that if they indeed rescued the goose it would be so glad to be free that the last thing it would want would be corn.

They finally took off for the lake at about 3 p.m. on a cloudy day. In the meantime back in Rice Lake, the secretary for the DNR had contacted her su-

pervisor and was calling every beauty shop in the Rice Lake area trying to find the lady who called about the goose.

But by now Pat had left for home.

We now have two kindly guys who are on their way to rescue the goose, one upset secretary who can’t find the lady who called in the first place, and Pat who was at home worrying.

It was now nearing 4 p.m., and Don was supposed to be at the school to pick me up from a day of teaching. When I went out to the car, my son, Kurt, was there waiting for me. I asked him where his dad was and without cracking a smile he said, “He is rescuing a goose.”

He then explained that Don had gone with Roger on a mission of mercy.

Meanwhile, the guys arrived at the lake. As they got out of the truck to survey the situation, Don wondered if they even had a right to be on the lake in the first place. It was rather small and private and there was a guy in a pickup watching them from a distance. At about this time, Don realized that this lake looked rather familiar and so did the goose. He had been to Rice Lake himself the past week.

By now you may have guessed the rest of the story. It was not a real goose—but a plastic decoy. Pat has a heart of gold and tenderness toward all animals. And you really have to love those two guys for trying. Oh yes, Pat called the DNR secretary back and they finally got it all straightened out. It had a happy ending after all, and that was small town America at its best.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

The view from Here The case against Cheney Vermont voters came out en masse in favor of impeaching President Bush two weeks ago and in so doing, struck fear in the hearts of their fellow Americans.

If the will of the citizens in the 36 towns around the Green Mountain state who voted for impeachment came to pass, something even worse than the Bush presidency would befall the American people: Dick Cheney at the helm. Of course, many have suspected all along that the Veep is the man behind the curtain, but the prospect of Cheney in the front seat is still a bit unnerving. So I began poking around to see if anyone had considered impeaching Cheney first. Turns out there’s a whole cottage industry devoted to just that. And Number Two’s crimes and misdemeanors are so numerous that it seems the task would be an easy one.

While President Bush’s approval ratings have been mired in the low 30s for months, the Veepster’s have been hovering in the high teens. And there’s good reason for that. The Dark Man has operated as a kind of shadow figure in the administration, conducting secret meetings and hiding out in his bunker for much of the past seven years. When he does emerge into the light of day, it’s usually to make one more stab at linking Saddam Hussein and 9/11, which he did last week for the umpteenth time with that trademark snarl on his lips.

We cut Bush some slack - he stumbles and fumbles with words, he looks confused and overwhelmed at times, feelings we can identify with. But Cheney seems diabolical, and the suspicion remains that he has been the puppeteer from the beginning, deftly pulling the strings.

And our suspicions are not unfounded. Consider the case against the Veep as outlined in an article by Wil S. Hylton in the March 2007 issue of Gentleman’s Quarterly.

Hylton, a prize-winning public interest Steve has done Pearson journalist, his homework and leaves no stone unturned. He lays out six articles of impeachment, all of which link Cheney with the worst abuses of the past seven years. And he draws on the public record to bolster his case.

Article 1 deals with Cheney’s welldocumented tampering with our intelligence-gathering system in the leadup to the Iraq invasion. After directing subordinates to “stovepipe” intelligence directly to his office, he became privy to loads of raw information, much of what had already been discounted by the intelligence committee, and held it up as fact. The best example of this was the bogus story of Saddam Hussein’s attempt to buy yellow cake uranium from Niger, which led to the outing of CIA agent Valerie Plame and the eventual indictment and conviction of Cheney’s pal Scooter Libby. At the same time, he worked closely with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to create a mock-intelligence agency within the Pentagon, the Office of Special Plans, whose mission was to contradict unfavorable information coming out to the CIA. Article 2 looks at what Cheney did with the information he accessed. Because he bulldozed his way into the web of intelligence, Cheney had access to reports that indicated pervasive doubt about Saddam’s WMD capabilities. Despite the questions and uncertainties

contained in these reports, he went on record with statements that eventually convinced Congress and the American public of the need for the invasion.

Some examples: March 17, 2002 - “We know they have biological and chemical weapons”; March 19, 2002 - “We know they are pursuing nuclear weapons”; March 24, 2002 - “He is actively pursuing nuclear weapons”; May 19, 2002 “We know he’s got chemical and biological. . .We know he’s working on nuclear.” Throughout this period and well after the invasion, he continued to insist on a link between Saddam and the 9/11 terrorists despite access to intelligence that totally discounted any connection.

Articles 4 and 5 deal with his financial dealings and his connections to Big Oil interests. In September of 2003, Cheney claimed to have “severed all my ties” and “had no financial interest in” Halliburton, where he was a CEO from 1995 to 2000. At the time he said this, he was earning more than $150,000 a year in delayed compensation and had a stock portfolio containing stock options of the company worth more than $10 million.

In February of 2002, Halliburton was forced to pay $2 million for fraud committed against the Pentagon while Cheney was in command. In December of 2003, the company was found by the Defense Contract Audit Agency, a unit of the Pentagon, to have defrauded the government of over $100 million. The recent announcement by the company that they will move their corporate headquarters to Dubai - safely outside the jurisdiction of U.S. courts - provided a field day for cartoonists who featured the exiled Veep sunbathing on the grounds of their soon-to-be-built megacomplex.

Shortly after coming into office, Cheney chaired a secret task force of lobbyists from the oil, gas, coal and nuclear power industries, inviting this cabal to

essentially write, word-for-word, the nation’s energy policy. When he was challenged by members of Congress to identify these lobbyists, he fought toothand-nail to preserve their anonymity and he defied a court order issued on March 25, 2002 to identify them. The Bush energy policy, especially in the first four years of the administration, was heavily tilted toward these Big Energy interests and Cheney’s actions created a veil of suspicion that continues to cloud his dealings with them.

Cheney’s links to Iraqi exile Ahmad Chalabi, whose phony WMD “intelligence” was used as further rationale for the invasion, make up the remaining articles of impeachment. Long after Chalabi had been discredited and his criminal past revealed, Cheney continued to trumpet his claims. Months after a June 2004 story that reported Chalabi had given U.S. secrets to Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Cheney invited him to the White House for a sleepover, in effect harboring a known fugitive from justice.

The case against Cheney is manyfold, and a determined Congress would seem to have few obstacles to trying and convicting him of “high crimes and misdemeanors.” The last Veep to leave office prematurely was Spiro Agnew who resigned in 1973 after it was revealed that he’d taken $30,000 in bribes while governor of Maryland. He paid a small fine and never did jail time. The Dark Man could take his cue from Agnew and voluntarily step down, but it hardly seems likely. Still, for a guy with health problems dogging him and a heavy load on his conscience, the sands of Dubai must be looking better every day. Can you say Vice President Pelosi?

(For the full text of Hylton’s article, go to men.style.com/gq/features/full?id =content_5402).

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

The Trade Lake Confectionary

by Stanley Selin The Trade Lake Confectionary building was built by Carl William Grimh, a brother of Arthur and F. Gotfred Grimh, who operated the Roller Mill. Carl William Grimh changed his name to Carl Williams.

Alfred Goldberg owned the building and lived there with his family. Robert Swanberg, who was also a barber, operated the confectionary and barber shop on the west end of the building. The confectionary sold fruit, candy, drinks, notions, sundries and postcards.

It was a popular place for many people in the community to gather and socialize. On March 17, 1923, a fire broke out at 2 a.m. The Goldberg family just barely escaped the flames which totally destroyed the structure.

Carl and Mathilda Williams and family shown on the south side of the confectionary.

Young men visiting on the porch of the confectionary about 1920. L to R: Clarence Wedell, Gotfred Anderson, Fred Akerlind, Robert Arthur Goldberg, Swanberg, Dewey Akerlind, Agerton Olson, Arnold Selin, Clint Norine and Gotfred Eckberg.

Identification of people by the confectionary.

Photos submitted

A group gathered outside the confectionary. The sign on the wagon advertised the Grantsburg Fair to be held Sept. 24 through 27, 1918. Dewey Akerlind is “cutting” Alfred Goldberg’s hair for the photographer.

View inside the confectionary. L to R: Emil Peterson, Alfred Goldberg and Herbert Birch.

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Pecans in the Cemetery On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big old pecan tree just outside the cemetery fence. One day two boys filled up a bucket full of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight and began dividing the nuts.

“One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me,” said one boy.

Several nuts dropped and rolled down toward the fence. Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate. Sure enough he heard, “One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me.”

He just knew what it was. He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man with a cane, hobbling along. “Come here quick,” said the boy. “You won’t believe what I heard!” Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls.”

The man said, “Beat it, kid. Can’t you see it’s hard for me to walk?”

When the boy insisted, the man hobbled slowly to the cemetery. Standing by the fence, they heard, “One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me…“ The old man whispered, “Boy, you’ve been tellin’ me the truth. Let’s see if we can see the Lord.” Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything. The old man and the boy gripped the wrought-iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord.

At last they heard, “One for you, one for me. That’s all. Now let’s go get those nuts by the fence and we’ll be done.”

They say the old man made it back to town a full five minutes ahead of the kid on the bike!

– Courtesy of Glenna Healthy diet?

Eat what you want when you are truly hungry.

Stop when you are full.

And eat exactly what appeals to you.

Do this instead of any diet, and you are likely to maintain a healthy weight, and avoid eating disorders.

Listen to your body!

(Note: The above hints were in a recent magazine article. I think they are very unhealthy suggestions. If I listened to my body, it would say, “Chocolate.

Chocolate. Chocolate!”)

Pillsbury Doughboy Dead at 71 Vetern Pillsbury spokesman Pop N Fresh died yesterday of a severe yeast infection. He was 71.

Fresh was buried in one of the largest funeral ceremonies in recent years. Dozens of celebrities turned out, including Mrs. Butterworth, the California Raisins, Hungry Jack, Betty Crocker, and the Hostess Twinkies.

The graveside was piled with flours as longtime friend Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy, describing Fresh as a man who “never knew how much he was kneaded.”

Fresh rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with many turnovers.

He was not considered a very smart cookie, wasting much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Still, even as a crusty old man, he was a roll model for millions.

Bernice Abrahamzon

BEHIND

Fresh is survived by his second wife, they have two children and one in the oven.

The funeral was held at 3:25 for 20 minutes.

(Note: Years ago when one of my sons was in college he wore a Pillsbury T-Shirt. It said, “Polk me, Punch me, Take me home.”

He had many offers from classmates who wanted to buy the shirt off his back!)

Something new The other day a different novelty shopper appeared in this area. It is titled The Country Register and is published in Eau Claire but the ads come from all over the state of Wisconsin. Evidently it’s a chain as the following story is being borrowed (stolen) from the Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware and there is no Ó mark so I guess it’s in the public domain. The shopper is much like Simple Pleasures once circulated in this area.

THE

SIGNPOST

Getting into heaven I was testing the children in my Sunday School class to see if they understood the concept of getting to heaven. I asked them, “If I sold my house and my car, had a big garage sale and gave all my money to the church, would that get me into heaven? “No!” the children answered.

“If I cleaned the church every day, mowed the yard, and kept everything neat and tidy, would that get me into heaven?” Again the answer was, “No!” By now I was starting to smile. Hey, this was fun!

“Well, then,” I asked, “if I was kind to animals and gave candy to all the children, and loved my husband, would that get me into heaven?” Again, they answered, “No!” I was just bursting with pride for them. “Well,” I continued, “then how can I get into heaven?” A 5year-old boy shouted out, “You gotta be dead!”

(Note: That’s the trouble! A lot of people want to go to heaven, but they don’t want to die to get there).

Good thought Remember the kindness of others but forget your own.

And another To be 70 years young is sometimes a lot more cheerful than being 40 years old.

And finally I have had more trouble with myself than with any other person I have met.

Until next week, Bernice

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Pleasant Valley 4-H Club placed first for window display, out of 39 displays in all.-The Frederic American Legion celebrated its 38th anniversary on March 15-17.-The Jersey Parish meeting was held March 20, at Balsam Lake.-The golden anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Berntson was celebrated March 17, with an open house at the DBS Hall in Luck.-A St. Patrick’s Day dance was held March 16, at the Odd Fellows Hall, with Bruice King and his orchestra playing. The Milltown Hall was located above Miller Hardware Store.Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included two heads of lettuce for 29¢, bacon at 49¢ and fryers at 47¢ lb.-A turkey dinner was served March 17, at Glockzin’s Restaurant, Frederic.-Phenothiazine was available to Polk County sheep raisers. It was a “must” for sheep to control internal parasites and sold for 60¢ lb.-The three students who won prizes in the Helen Mears art contest were: Elaine Teigen, Rosalie Beaulieu and Billy Utley.-The Clam Falls Luther League would sponsor a pancake supper on April 6, at the Clam Falls Lutheran Church.-The Milltown Ladies Aid held a rummage sale on March 23, at Jorgenson Implement Co.-Rogers Clothing & Shoe Store opened in Danbury on Monday, April 1.-Since last June, prices for farmers with eggs were running well below a year ago.-Jolly Stan supplied the music for the March 23 dance at the Indian Creek Hall, admission was 50¢.

40 Years Ago Stolen radiators were reported at Bairs Auto Salvage, Frederic. About a dozen were stolen.-An overheated heater at the Gerlach home, Indian Creek, did considerable damage. Firefighters were also called to the Vernon Java home where a wall furnace caught on fire.-Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included sliced bacon at 65¢ lb., kidney beans at 10 cans for $1 and 20 lbs. of No. 1 Burbank potatoes at 97¢.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included 2 lbs. rice at 27¢, facial tissue at five boxes for 89¢ and 25 lbs. of Gold Medal flour at $1.99.-Obituaries included Gerda Olson, Iris Schultz and Lillian Walton.-Judges award 32 A’s at the Frederic Forensic Meet.-Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Kunze, Luck, were parents of a baby girl, Karen Elizabeth, born March 10, at the Frederic Hospital.Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included bananas at 9¢ lb., soda crackers at 2 lbs. for 39¢ and Swansdown cake mixes at four for $1.-Due to bad weather, days had to be made up at Siren Schools, so students had only Good Friday and the weekend off.Snowmobile races were held at Crooked Lake on Sunday, March 19.-The Old Veasy Road was to be indentified by the Burnett County Historical Society.

It was also known as the Old Tote Road, and the Old Pinery Road.-Obituaries, included Carl Hallberg and Mrs. Carl Olson.-John Donlin was president of the Siren Chamber of Commerce.

20 Years Ago Oeffler’s Greenhouses at Frederic and Luck were featured as Business of the Week in this newspaper.Officers of South Fork Sporting Club were: Rick Eklof, Tom Lemieux, Perry Karl, plus directors, Cliff Anderson, Jim Flanigan and Richard Kettula.-A couples cribbage tournament was held Feb. 28, at the Lewis VFW.-Richard and Doni Jo Schlader were featured as the owners of the Indian Creek Orchard on the former Clarence Pratt Farm. They also owned the property known as Central Supply in Frederic, originally developed by Everett Coen.-Obituaries included Emma Lou Friend, Harvey Christensen, Rose Brown, Harold (Jim) Chapman, Emma Nielsen and Harold Lund.-Polk County planned to draft an ATV ordinance.-George Tybert of Siren, received medals 42 years after gallant action as soldier in WWII.-Surveyors were busy surveying for new post office in Frederic.-Circle C Foods in Frederic was expanding its business to have more room for groceries.-Jean Miller, Lewis, moved to Sunrise Apts., Frederic.-Additional obituaries included Clarence Erickson, Charles Dietmeier Jr., Hertha Pentland, Linnea Lundberg, Sadie Nelson and Leo Anderson.-Winter lime quarry closing brought many complaints.-The Burnett County Board nixed a huge waste dump proposal.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

Frederic 1908 C.A. Carlson, the hardware dealer selling the New DelLaval Cream separator, the world’s standard.

The First National Bank was offering 4-percent interest in your savings account. Hard maple stove wood was selling for $1.50 per cord. Dr. F.H.B. McDowell recently purchased a shanty from H.K. Brown, and had it moved to his lot on Wisconsin Avenue, where he expects to have it remodeled and built into an office.

An extra train was made up at Frederic after the regular train came in. The regular crew was in charge. It has been so long since any excitement, such as a special on the Soo, that the citizens turned out to view the departure of eight car loads of ties that were to be distributed along the branch.

Telephones Last week we mentioned the formulation of a local telephone company and since then we have had a number mention the matter and they spoke Betty very favorably of the Fenton project. The company could be formed by HISTORICAL following the same plan, under which the VIGNETTES farmers’ companies are organized. If every phone user in Frederic would buy their own phone and one share of stock at $25, a good exchange could be built here. Minor Erickson’s blacksmith shop had put in a gasoline engine, power drill, band saw, power grinder, rip saw, new blower,

Carlson Hardware with Robert Soderberg and C.A. Carlson. – Photo submitted

shoe vise and foot-power emery wheel.

He is now equipped to manufacture sleds and other heavy wood or ironwork, and we hope he will soon be able to keep this machinery running all the time. A notice of the businessmen in Frederic – businesses will be closing at 8 p.m., except Mondays and Saturdays.

The firm of Scheldrup & Olsen has been dissolved and the interest owned by M.A. Schelfup purchased by E. J. Olson of St. Croix Falls. The new firm will be Olsen & Son and the business will be conducted by I.E. Olsen, who has been in business here a long time and gained the confidence and goodwill of the people.

Forest fires have been causing considerable anxiety on the outskirts of the village recently. Saturday the hose carts were taken to W.W. Seery’s mill in order to check the fire that was getting too close to the lumberyard, but the hose was too short to be of any service, so the citizens back fired. Quite a number have lost cordwood that was piled in the woods. An excellent program will be given in the village hall by school tonight. Admission only 10 cents.

Everyone interested in our schools should be there. The First National Bank of Frederic has begun the erection of a brick addition to the north end of its building. The cesspool to be used in connection with the lavatory has been completed. The dance given by the band boys at the village hall Monday evening, was a grand success. They paraded the streets in the early part of the evening, and played some fine selections of music. At 11:30 p.m., a fine sup-

per was spread at Paines Hotel and 28 couples enjoyed it. After supper they returned to the hall and finished the dance, and at a late hour they broke up, all declaring they had a very enjoyable time. The boys were well pleased with the success they had in giving the dance, as it was one of the largest crowds that ever attended in the village.

Quite a number came from points along the Soo Line and around through the country.

The Ladies Scandinavian Aid Society gave a very nice apron social, which was a great success. There were about 20 aprons sold and they brought prices from 40 cents to $4.50. It was to benefit of the new church.

Death claims ex-President Grover Cleveland. The telephone line from West Sweden has been connected with the Frederic central.

A new business in the village was called Lunch Counter and Confectionery Store, fresh bread daily. Lunches served at all hours, P.P. Luke, Proprietor.

Thursday afternoon of last week quite a little excitement was caused by a supposed runaway, but it was soon discovered that Mrs. Hugh Robinson had tied her horse west of the Cruzen Store, and the animal had rubbed her bridle off and decided to go home. In trying to stop her, she became frightened and started to run. The trip was made without damage, until the home barnyard was reached, where the buggy hit a stump, bolted it and the harness was badly broken. – from Betty Fenton, Director of Public Relations, Frederic Area Historical Society

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement Merrifield/ Knauber Larry and Cindy Merrifield, and Vern and Denielle Knauber, of Frederic would like to announce the engagement of their children, Natasha Merrifield, and Luke Knauber of Frederic.

Merrifield graduated from Grantsburg High School and now attends WITC. Knauber graduated from Frederic High School and is employed at St. Croix Valley Hardwoods.

A July wedding in Frederic is being planned. – submitted

468-2520

Dewey - LaFollette

Hank Mangelsen visited Clarence Sexton Monday.

Dinner guests of Karen and Hank Mangelsen Wednesday were Ken and Kay Stoner, Gerry and Donna Hines and Lida Nordquist. Ken’s birthday was celebrated.

Pastor Earl and Joan Korhonen visited Donna and Gerry Hines Thursday afternoon.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen called on Bruce and Marlene Swearingen Thursday afternoon.

Gerry and Donna Hines visited Sue and Barry Hines and family in Centerville, Minn., overnight Friday. Saturday night

Karen Mangelsen

they stayed with Brian and Jane Hines and family in Maple Grove, Minn.

Sunday visitors of Karen and Hank Mangelsen were April, Dave, Patty and Mandy Close, Larry, Celie, Baxter, Jake, Hannah and Grace Mangelsen.

Don and Lida Nordquist visited Marlene and Bruce Swearingen Sunday evening.

Remember to come to Indian Creek Saturday, March 24, from 7 to 10 p.m. to dance to the music of Mr. Morgan. The dance is in honor of Beverly Brunclik on her 70th birthday. All are welcome.

Siren Senior Center

349-7249

Thursday, March 15, a group of senior friends traveled to Minneapolis with their fourth-grade buddies.

Thank you Donna Tjader for the great time that you arranged for the seniors and your fourth-grade class. What a teacher!

Donna applied and received a grant that provided a fun day for the class and their senior friends. We all assembled at the Siren School and were on our way in a firstclass bus five minutes before schedule.

First we were treated to a bag breakfast of a muffin, orange juice and milk and then settled back and watched several interesting videos. We arrived at the Children’s Theater a little after 10 a.m. It was really a mind-boggling scene when we entered the theater, which was knee deep in children.

How the people in charge of theater manage to keep everyone straight is amazing.

We were directed to our seats in a very orderly fashion and had the pleasure of seeing “Huck Finn.” My fourth-grade buddy Brandon Cobb and I discussed the play after the show and I told him I always thought children were cast in the Children’s Theater, so we were very surprised that four accomplished adult actors played all the parts in the play. Brandon thought that it was strange that they didn’t have a girl playing the female parts and come to think of it, he was right. All in all it was very delightful. After the play, somehow we managed to congregate our group and found our bus without a hitch. Our next treat was lunch at McDonald’s. Donna informed us that we each could spend approximately $5 for our lunch and you could hear those little minds calculate what they could have to eat and, believe me, a lot of sandwiches, fries and soda were consumed.

Now wouldn’t you think that by this time that the kids would be a little weary (we seniors

Barb Munger

were), but they weren’t, and they kept us entertained all the way home to Siren.

Some of our regular senior friends didn’t feel they were up to a long bus ride and walking so we had some really cool substitutes who volunteered for the ones who couldn’t make it. They were Wendy Koslosky, Shelly Ford, Rose and Wally Nelson, Nona Severson, Elaine Wilson, Larissa and Jolene Prilo. Thanks to them, everyone had a partner.

Tuesday’s dime-bingo had a great turnout with five tables playing. I think that has been our largest bunch.

Wednesday 500 winners were Inez Pearson, Don Antiel, Roy Magnison and Flo Antiel.

Friday Spade winners were Gerry Vogel, Marjorie Nyberg, Clara Palomaki and Dwaine Bentley.

Due to our Good Friday Breakfast on April 6, Shirley Holmes is pushing our Dining at Five up a week, so change your calendar to April 12 for that event. At the moment she hasn’t decided what she is going to serve, but we will let you know what the menu is as soon as we find out.

I must apologize that I missed two birthdays for March last week. They are Helmi Larson and Gerry Ramsdell. Sorry about that girls, happy birthday.

Thanks to Lorraine Minder for several bags of like new books and a very nice picture.

Get well wishes to Lloyd Nelson.

Tax assistants will be at the center for the last time on April 5 so this is a last call if you need help with your taxes or homestead credit. April 15 will be here before you know it.

The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, the coffee pot is always on and everyone is welcome.

Happy Tails Await On Saturday, March 17, the Osceola Junior Girl Scout Troop 104, completed their Bronze Award for Community Involvement at the Arnell Humane Society. This troop of six, (L to R): top row, Bailey Athier, Hanna Mierow and Jenna Flanders. Bottom row, Emily Jensen, Olivia Willett and Taylor Turner, placed boxes for shelter donations in 12 businesses throughout their community. After collecting the donated supplies, the girls delivered them to the shelter and helped shelter staff with morning chores and then some. They scrubbed kennels, walked dogs, cuddled cats and scrubbed some more. Thank you to these enterprising young women from Troop 104!

All of our unsocialized beagle-retriever puppies have been adopted.

They progressed very nicely over the two weeks they were in socialization training. We appreciate all who took time out of their day to help us with this process. It was very rewarding for all involved, to see these frightened little pups come so far. They will need

further encouragement in their forever homes, but they were well on their way when they left the shelter.

It was a busy week for animals coming and going. Nearly record number of adoptions took place for one week, but we also took in a large number of stray dogs. Please remember to tell your friends who have lost their pets, to call the shelter as soon as they discover them missing. Animals are brought to the shelter from all corners of the county, and it is our mission to return them to their loving homes.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St. E, Amery 715-268-7387 or visit our pets online at: www.amhs.petfinder.com.

Hello, Fritz here! Happy first day of spring! It feels like spring around the shelter as we have been very busy. The angels took some of us up to walk in the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Webb Lake. I didn’t go, I find the crowds a bit overwhelming, but many of my friends did and they had a great time.

I guess plenty of folks donated money as the angels and my furry friends walked along, so that’s really cool too.

While my friends were at the parade, I enjoyed chewing on a pig ear. Jim Buck dropped off a whole box of them for all of us to chew on. We love them!

Valentine and Duchess both went home this past week. Arooo! Were they excited to go home with new furever families. Abigail’s puppies are old enough to go home, it sounds like three of them are already spoken for.

Abigail is a bit sad to see her pups go but knows they’ll have good homes.

She also knows that once her puppies are adopted, she will be ready for a new family!

Lion, the young malamute/German

shepherd cross is waiting for a home.

So are Bobo, Cat and Dee Dee, all beautiful young dogs. Lightning, the black Lab mix stray who was found with the Fritz mouth full of porcupine quills, is waitNEWS FROM ing for a good home.

The angels are amazed how well he walks on a leash and how well behaved he is.

Honky Tonk is a new addition to our shelter family this week. He’s a rotweiller-mix stray who loves to howl. He’s very friendly and playful.

Celebrate spring! Stop in and visit us at the shelter, we’re always waiting for visitors with lots of tail wags and slobber kisses!

With your help HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org, 715-866-4096

YOUR SHELTER

Happy Corners Vern Catlin had a doctor’s appointment in Barron on Monday forenoon.

Mardel Barnette and Shawn visited at the Gene Doster home on Monday afternoon.

Vern Catlin visited his granddaughter in Spooner on Sunday afternoon.

Gene Doster, Vern Catlin, Mardel Bar-

Fran Krause

nette celebrated Shawn Barnette’s 31st birthday at Rolling Oaks in Barron on Thursday evening.

Vern Catlin visited at the Gene Doster home on Wednesday afternoon.

Mardel Barnette and Shawn were Balsam Lake shoppers on Sunday afternoon.

Orange

Reeny Neinstadt, Diane Richison and Sharon Proffit were in Hayward last week.

Sunday dinner guests of John and Reeny were Ron and Sharon Proffit and Jim Coveau. Budd Flagstad also visited the Neinstadt’s over the weekend.

Allyson Krause is home from Stevens Point on spring break.

Fran Krause hosted the Sarah Circle on Wednesday.

The Orange 4-H met at the Webster Elementary School on Wednesday afternoon.

Pam Peterson and Amy Schanke spent

LaVonne O’Brien

the weekend at the Lodge in Siren doing scrapbooking.

Pastor Cindy visited Maxine Stone this week.

Guests at Maxine’s were Iola Rachner, Donna Carlson and Doris Schauers.

Friday, Darlene Nelson made corned beef and cabbage for all the aunts at Iola Rachner’s.

Saturday evening Mike and LaVonne O’Brien went to see Tylyn O’Brien in “Peter Pan” put on by the Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre at the Frederic school.

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Lewis

653-4281 Mr. and Mrs. Darrel Imhoff and big brother, Nolan, welcomed home Sarah Josephine Imhoff on Tuesday, March 13.

Nolan has been giving the baby lots of loving kisses.

The United Methodist men are in charge of the Lenten meal at 6 p.m. at the Lewis church this Wednesday. The Lenten message will be brought by the Grantsburg minister, Pastor Cathy at 7 p.m. Welcome to all. (Pastors don’t seem to have last names these days.)

Robin Peterson and Linda Baxter helped out at the Frederic Food Shelf last Thursday. If anyone would like to help this Thursday, please contact LaVonne Boyer.

News is “scarcer than hen’s teeth” as the old saying goes. Any news would be appreciated.

Glad to report that Doris Lindquist is now home again at her Golden Oaks apartment after spending some time recovering at the

Frederic Care Center. She has been recovering from pneumonia. Her scrabble club friends miss her. Last week Joan Jendro was welcomed back to play scrabble, but Minnie Grimh was missing due to a bad cold. Present were Edna Martin, Florence White, Eva Hansen, Darlene Jensen, Donna Erickson, Joan Jendro and Bernice Abrahamzon. Because of daylight-savingstime, the players meet at 1 p.m. again.

The April 13 meeting of the NW Regional Writers will be held in the Community Room of the Sunrise Apts. at 1 p.m. The assignment is quite a challenge to write on this subject: “If you could be anyone you want for one hour, who would you be and where would you go or what would you do?” This is giving writers lots of time to work on a masterpiece.

Speaking of masterpieces, have you read the club’s latest book “Come Read with Me.” It’s available for purchase at the

Bernice Abrahamzon

Frederic Library and also the Leader office at Frederic.

The Morning Book Club will meet this Thursday from 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Frederic Library to discuss the March selection, “Man and Boy.” Should be a lively discussion. Half the fun of reading a book is to talk about it afterward with someone else. Sometimes a book hits a person just right; other times it leaves you cold. The good thing about a book club is that people read books they might not otherwise select for themselves. So it broadens horizons!

Anxious to see what the April selection is!

Readers are welcome.

Changes are inevitable. The Log Rail Bar on Main Street, Lewis, is charging hands. The new name is Shooters Bar and Grill. Applying for a license is Leonard Chute. Perhaps the business name is a play on the applicant’s name. It isn’t a sportsman’s club evidently. Maybe it’s

“Straight Shooters.” (Another play on words.) Just theorizing!

Looking forward to spring and the return of our snowbirds. (Human ones.)

Rumors are the bears are waking up in downtown Lewis as the hounds are barking and getting excited.

In addition to the regular Sunday offering at church, a second offering was accepted, this time for Missionary Webster in Africa. Members of the Siren and Lewis churches have been following the missionary service of the Webster couple for a number of years. His wife passed away but he has returned to Africa to continue their work there. They have begun a chicken project, along with goats, gardens and a cow or so. The people there are realizing the benefits of milk for children and a good diet.

Webster Senior Center Deb served the traditional St. Patrick’s Day corned beef and cabbage dinner on Tuesday, as she was having the day off on Friday, March 16. Everyone enjoyed the meal in addition to her homemade frosted sugar cookies.

There were 14 players at dime bingo on Wednesday and Margel Ruck and Jane Wardean took turns at doing the calling.

Everyone had a great time in addition to enjoying the nice array of goodies and refreshments. Deb attended a nutrition staff meeting in Siren and their major item of discussion was making plans for the annual volunteer recognition dinner coming up in April.

After enjoying a meal of noodles with beef sirloin tips on Thursday, Joyce Smith, Gladys Beers, Margel Ruck, Theresa Gloege and I played several games of golf cards. Ella Livingston, who was a former sub-cook for our nutrition site, stopped in and played two games with us. Ella is now attending school in Rice Lake.

Our regular group of men played pool on Thursday evening while some of the ladies were attending the Webster Lioness Club meeting at the community center. As they didn’t have anyone yet to cater the regular monthly meal, the ladies enjoyed a large variety of snacks and refreshments furnished by several of the members before the meeting. The Lioness members had a “doggie” shower of pet food and supplies

for the Burnett County Humane Society that Kendra Petrashek was very happy to deliver to the shelter for us. Kendra was there to tell about the shelter and its needs.

Kevin Klucas, director of Burnett County Historical Society and Fort Folle Avoine, appeared before the members to talk about the coming activities for 2007 at the Fort and their needs. Lioness members voted to make a $500 donation to both the animal shelter and the Fort. Gail Nordquist was appointed to serve as club liaison to the Webster Lions Club.

They also made plans for their annual rummage and bake sale that will be held on Friday, May 22. They were also advised that the Webster Lioness Club will be hosting an American Red Cross blood drive on May 22, at the Webster Community Center. So you regular donors should be prepared to have Lioness members call you to schedule a time for your blood donation. This is a very good cause as the American Red Cross always has the need to restock their blood supply.

For those that enjoy playing bingo, be advised that the Webster Lions Club will have their first bingo game of the year on Monday, April 2, at the Webster Community Center.

We welcome Gail and Carl Nordquist back after spending several weeks in warmer parts of the U.S. They also visited Rod and Millie Hopkins in Mission, Texas.

St. Croix Valley Senior Center Tuesday afternoon, March 13, domino winners were: George Meixner in first place, Jean McIntryre in second place, Delores Benson in third place. 500 card winners were: Bernice Olson in first place, Jeanne Thomfohrda in second place, Phil Mevissen in third place and Mary Lou Lund in fourth place.

On March 29, there will be a Blood Donation at the Cushing Community Center from 1 to 7 p.m. Call Sharron Lofgren at 715-825-3733 to donate blood.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Elroy Petzel in first place, Cliff Qualle in second place, Jack Lund in third place

and Phil Mevissen in fourth place.

On St. Patrick’s Day at 5 p.m., we had a dinner of corned beef and cabbage. Our hosts, Ron and Elaine Edlund did a great job. We all had a great time. Dominos and 500 cards were played. Domino winners were: Don Anderson in first place, Delores Benson in second place, Russ Adams in third place and Jean McIntyre in fourth place. 500 card winners were: Phil Mevissen in first place, John Brown in second place, Bernice Olson in third place, Ruth Flostrand in fourth place and Jeanne Thomohrda in fifth place.

Have a great day!

Frederic Senior Center A good number of spade players enjoyed playing on Monday. The winners were: 1. Margaret Ulick, 2. Lola Hinschberger, 3. Vi Luke and 4. Eleanore Bonneville. We enjoyed having Margaret Ulick back playing cards as she has had medical problems.

Pokeno was enjoyed at 1 p.m. on Wednesday. Thursday we had tax aides at the center and a large number of taxpayers took advantage of the wonderful volunteer program sponsored by AARP. It also was a social time to enjoy treats and coffee together.

Friday the pokeno gals enjoyed playing together and having lunch afterward. They

Dottie Adams

Ardyce Knauber

always have room for anyone that would like to join them.

Saturday for Share-A-Lunch we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with corned beef and cabbage. Liz Ruhn provided us some good peppy music. We celebrated the March birthdays. Clarice Marek had a St. Patrick’s Day cake and our birthday cake also had green frosting. Bingo and cards were played and all enjoyed a lunch before they went home. Everyone enjoyed their day at the center.

Thursday night 500 had a large group of players. The winners were: 1. Eleanore Bonneville, 2. Herb Sederlund, 3. Willis Williams and 4. Don Antiel.

Mary Klar

Jerry Vogel sub-cooked for Deb on Friday and there was good attendance for the roast pork dinner. Arvilla Voltattorni won a plate of Deb’s homemade cookies in the March National Nutrition Month drawing.

Harold Peterson and Bruce Behrens played a couple games of pool while Mert Kisselburg, Margel Ruck, Fran Arnold, Theresa Gloege, Gladys Beers, Jane Wardean and I played cards. As usual, it was a barrel of laughs.

Thursday evening, March 29, is the date for our next Dining at Five evening meal, and Deb will be serving chicken, potato salad, baked beans with chocolate-cherry cake for dessert. Call 866-5300 for your reservation.

Our gratitude is extended to the unknown donor of two very large bags of aluminum cans to add to our stockpile that is growing again. We appreciate the effort people have made to bring their cans and drop them off at the back door of the center.

Happy birthday to those celebrating birthdays in March: Maury Heyer, Bob Marsh, Harlan Pygman, Lily Gleason, Jan Anderson, Norma Martin and Mary Poretti.

Family and friends of Ruth (Brownie) Sears are having a benefit for her on Sat-

urday, April 7, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Black & Orange, Main Street, Webster, to raise funds to help defray costs that have occurred from her cancer treatments that are not covered by Medicare and insurance.

She will also be celebrating her 83rd birthday.

Our get-well wishes and prayers continue to go out to Norma Martin, Kathy Beyer, Ray Hammerschmidt, Arlene Clendening, Patty McLaird and Maury Heyer.

Also, special thoughts and prayers go out to Julie Anderson and Richard Cook.

When we pass from this earth, we will still continue to speak. What kind of a legacy are you leaving behind for your children and family? Will it be a Godly one, or one that leaves them lost for eternity? Your legacy or mission to them has eternal significance. Nothing you leave them, or do, will ever matter as much as helping them establish an eternal relationship with God. “My life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus - the work of telling others the good news about God’s wonderful kindness and love.”-Acts 20:24. “If we really care for those who live beneath God’s wrath, the Gospel must be shared with them to turn them from death’s path.”-Unknown.

Births Amery Regional Medical Center:

A boy, Dawson Eugene Jensen, born March 8, 2007, to Holly and Kent Jensen, Balsam Lake. Dawson weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz.

St. Croix Regional Medical Center:

A girl, Hannah Rae Scherff, born March 5, 2007, to Mike and Allie Scherff, Frederic. Hannah weighed 7 lbs., 12 oz.

••• A girl, Gwendolyn Jeanna Rasmussen, born March 11, 2007, to Bradley and Jeanna Rasmussen, Dresser. Gwendolyn weighed 7 lbs., 5 oz.

••• A boy, Roman Alexander McKinney, born March 8, 2007, to Autumn Olson and Brandon McKinney, Pine City, Minn.

Roman weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A girl, Reegan Ann Ward, born March 6, 2007, to Scott and Sheri Ward, Amery.

Reegan weighed 6 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A boy, Alex Joseph McCormick, born March 7, 2007, to Pamela and Mathew McCormick, Grantsburg. Alex weighed 6 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Madison Ann Anderson, born

Feb. 23, 2007, to Mindi and Mark Anderson, Centuria. Madison weighed 6 lbs., 9 oz.

••• A girl, Jordan Leigh Olson, born Feb. 19, 2007, to Luann and Duaine Olson, Luck. Jordan weighed 7 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A boy, Joseph Richard Tanner, born Feb. 21, 2007, to Jennifer and Jason Tanner, Clayton. Joseph weighed 6 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A boy, Aaron John Solland, born Feb. 24, 2007, to Ruth and Travis Solland, Centuria. Aaron weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, Bennett James Mitchell, born Feb. 26, 2007, to Greg and Tara Mitchell, Milltown. Bennett weighed 8 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A boy, Tucker Albin Johnson, born Feb. 22, 2007, to Tony and Sandy Johnson, Frederic. Tucker weighed 8 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A boy, Dustin William Terrance Wishard, born March 2, 2007, to William and Misty Wishard, Amery. Dustin weighed 6 lbs., 6 oz.

Luck Senior Center

472-8285

Kind of quiet last week at the center.

Hope it picks up soon!

A few of us are going to the Siren Center on Thursday, March 22. We will meet at the center and leave around 12:45. I hope we

Shirley Lund

can get some good ideas for our center.

Correction: Our monthly potluck will be Friday, March 30, at 6 p.m. Please take note the date and time change.

Have a good day!

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Cloverton - Markville

320-242-3933 One warm, beautiful evening in the summer of 1995, my soon-to-be husband, Dave Baker, and I were driving down Hay Creek Road when we glimpsed a short, white-haired, somewhat elderly woman waving her arms delightfully as she traipsed across the field towards. Dave stopped the car and the two of them chatted busily and amiably. That was the beginning of my 12-year friendship with Lydia Mishler, the wonderful indomitable woman who passed away at age 92 on March 11.

In our globalized and vastly mobile soci-

349-2964

ety, it is testament to her stability that she had lived all of the first 91 years of her life in New Dosey Township. She and her husband Joe farmed their land, raised their three sons and contributed in every way to their community.

She worked tirelessly for the Dosey Dosies, our homemakers group and the East Pine County Wanderers, our senior group. She also served for many years on the senior minibus board and as a delegate to the Seven County Senior Federation.

Our memories of Lydia are boundless.

Siren

Can you believe it? We are almost four months into the New Year already. Winter, such as it was this year, is almost gone.

Just a few scattered snow squalls left, I’m sure, before Mother Nature brings in the warmer weather to stay. We can once again start looking for our summer birds.

Bluebirds and the robins can’t be far from returning to our area and, in about six weeks or so, we can once again start looking for the jewels of the gardens, the hummingbirds, to return.

Coming up on Sat., March 31, is the 18th-annual Rainbow of Fun Carnival at the Siren school from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can pick up tickets ahead of time at all the Siren banks for 50 tickets for $10, or at the door for 4 tickets for $1. This event is sponsored by Mom’s for Kids.

Congratulations to grade schooler Austin Piepho, middle schooler Dakota Mulroy and high schooler Lauren Howe for being chosen Siren schools students of the week.

Great job kids.

Bev Beckmark

The Siren High School will present “Anchors Aweigh” on Thurs. and Fri., March 22 and 23, at 7 p.m., and Sun., March 25 at 2 p.m.

Congratulations to Carol Doric for being chosen Capeside Nursing Homes Employee of the Month.

The Siren school will hold a school library fundraiser on Sat., March 24, with a dinner, raffle and silent auction. For more info, call 715-349-2277.

There’s a special leprechaun in Siren who celebrated his birthday this St. Patrick’s Day with some family get-togethers. Happy birthday, Stan.

There will be variety show auditions at the Siren school coming up on April 16 from 6:30 to 8 p.m., so mark your calendars. For more info call Bonnie at 715-4972230 or JoAnne at 715-349-5200 or 349-5661. These auditions will be on a first-come basis, you can also call JoAnne to set up a time.

Engagement Broome/ Langford Donald and Velma Broome of Cumberland are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Amber Dawn Broome, to Jared Lee Langford, son of Jim and Raynetta Langford of Salina, Kan. Amber and Jared are currently students at Manhattan Christian College in Manhattan, Kan. They both plan on graduating in 2008, Amber with a Bachelor of Arts in Bible Theology and Cross-Cultural Ministry with a minor in Family Ministry and Jared with a Bachelor of Arts in Bible Theology and Pastoral Ministry. Wedding plans are being made for August 4, 2007 at First Lutheran Church in Manhattan, Kan. The couple is honored to have their pastor, professor, and friend Wesley Paddock presiding. A reception will follow at nearby Pottorf Hall in Manhattan, Kan. – Photo submitted

She and Joe were the first friends Dave made when he moved here in 1973. Monte Ferguson recalls that when he was hospitalized for five weeks a few years ago, he received a five-page letter from Lydia.

While many of us sent cards, this unique woman spent considerable time giving a hospitalized friend the neighborhood news.

Bob Brewster chuckles when he tells of the time, many years ago, when he had planted a field of rye. Lydia and Joe had retired from farming by then, but, Lydia, in her excitement over Bob’s rye crop, insisted that Joe get out their rusted, dilapidated binder and thrasher. They hauled the binder all the way over to Bob’s to bind the sheaves. The sheaves were then hauled back to Mishler’s farm where a thrashing party took place. Bob says Lydia was in her glory to be farming again.

My memories include her infectious giggle, her deep intelligence, her genuine

Fran Levings goodness and her orneriness. Cranky she could be, we all knew that. There was a crustiness to Lydia Mishler that, at times, was reminiscent of an angry righteous mythical figure. She held to her differing views, never letting them go.

Dave remembers with fondness their many fiery discussions. Being from opposite ends of the political spectrum, they both held their ground while never losing their mutual respect.

Her heated contradictions to many of our ideas were just that, an opposition to our ideas, never to an opposition to us. She loved this community and we loved her.

Rest in peace, dear Lydia, you truly were one of a kind.

P.S. Because I will be in Milwaukee for four days next week, there will be no column.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS

Amery Public Library “Traveler” by Ron McLarty Thomas Wolfe’s famous novel said “You can’t go home again.” In this new novel Ron McLarty’s Jono Riley, an aging actor and bartender decides to go back to his hometown when he hears about the death of Marie D’Agostino, his first love. Returning to East Providence, R.I., if only for a few days, brings memories flooding back, memories poignant, funny, horrifying and heartbreaking. He connects with his three best friends from the 1960s Bobby Fontes, Cubby D’agostino and Billy Fontanelli.

His firefighter girlfriend, Rene, soon joins him in his search to unravel a mystery from the past. He needs to commit to Rene but he loves her too much to be able to face her ever saying goodbye.

Rene and Jono uncover some things which put their lives in danger.

Ron McLarty’s first book, “Memories of Running,” has been very popular at the Amery Public Library both in book and audio version.

Library notes Gratitude is expressed to Denise Christiansen and Sean Christiansen for their great introduction to Irish culture at story time last week. Denise played the harp and we read St. Patrick’s Day stories and even discovered a young Irish dancer in the group by the name of Jared! Story time will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday mornings.

Everyone is welcome for songs and stories every week. The tax forms are still available at the Amery Public Library and remember that the time is running down. We have Wisconsin, Minnesota and federal tax forms. If you need an odd one, we will try to get it off the internet for you.

The Friends of the Library book group meets at 7 p.m. on April 16, to discuss “The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver. Pick up a copy at the circulation desk and join us.

The Otaku Club for teens who like manga and anime meets at the library every Tuesday from 5 to 6 p.m. The Teens Read book group meets on March 26, to discuss the heartwrenching “My Sister’s Keeper” by Jodi Picoult. Pick up a copy at the circulation desk and join us for exciting book talk and snacks.

The History Group has its first meeting on March 26, with Herb Cederberg to discuss “The Vinland Sagas: The Norse Discovery of America” translated

by Magnus Magnussen at 7 p.m. at the Amery Public Library. Snacks are provided. They will meet in April and May to discuss two more books.

Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Federal income tax forms are available at the library. The Internet is a great source for downloading additional forms you need for only 5 cents per copy!

Three Internet computers: You must physically present a MORE library card

to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer.

Story time Lapsitter and preschool story times begin at 10:30 a.m. Join us for stories, songs, fingerplays, crafts and more!

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. also has information about story times, days closed, reference links, library policy and much more.

Luck Public Library Preschool story hour is held Wednesdays from 10 – 11 a.m. All preschoolaged children are welcome. We focus on early literary skills, story sequencing,

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents

every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. at St. Croix Falls Public Library story hour!

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hours The Centuria Public Library is open Monday from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m., Wednesday from

Story hour Wednesday morning Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to story hour at 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 28, when we will share stories written by children’s author Don Freeman, author of the beloved “Corduroy” books.

Book groups are brain food!

The Thursday morning reading group will meet Thursday, April 19, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “A Lesson Before Dying”

by Ernest Gaines, a novel of the relationship between a young black man on death row and his teacher in 1940s Louisiana. The evening book group will meet Thursday, April 19 (same date), at 7 p.m. to talk about Anne Tyler’s “A Patchwork Planet,” the hilarious yet poignant story of 30-something Barnaby Gaitlin, a character apparently unable to keep his finger off the auto-self-destruct button every time his life improves.

Osceola Public Library

Story time Every Thursday morning at 10 a.m. and again at 11 a.m., we offer a fun and exciting time for younger children.

Come and hear a wonderful book and enjoy coloring and word puzzles afterwards.

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.

What’s a Peeps diorama?

We’re all familiar with Peeps, those marshmallowy spring treats, but did you know they are famous in other ways?

The St. Paul Pioneer Press holds an annual competition for Peep dioramas, displays or scenes with Peeps as main characters. A group of dedicated Frederic Peeps producers has created a diorama of “The Peeple’s Library,” and a picture has been entered in the contest.

The diorama is on display at the library, so be sure to stop by to see what can be created with imagination and Peeps!

Basic tax forms are still available If you are beginning to do your taxes, the basic federal and Wisconsin tax forms are here, including the homestead credit and rent certificate schedules. We will also be happy to download other tax forms from the web for you.

Library hours at a glance Regular library hours are Mon. 10 a.m.

- 7 p.m.; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The library is closed on Tuesdays.

How to contact the library Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak St. 715-327-4979.

West. fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Milltown Public Library We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our new, free, fast wireless Internet access. No more waiting for an open computer! Surf the net from a comfortable chair! No time limits!

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers two story times every Tuesday. The morning noon to 5 p.m., Thursday from noon to 7 story time begins at 10 a.m. Can’t make p.m., closed Friday, and open 10 a.m. to it in the morning? We will repeat the pronoon on Saturday.

Centuria Public Library

The seed exchange program continues at the library with the type of seeds being offered changing regularly.

The knitting and crocheting group will meet again on March 28, 4:30 p.m.

The first gathering went well and fun was had by all. The group could use a few more members so please come join us! Experts and beginners alike are welcome!

Frederic Public Library

emergent phonics, the alphabet and Need home delivery? other prereading skills. We hope to see If you live in the village of Frederic you there. and are homebound and cannot visit the library, the library will come to you!

Volunteers or library staff will set up a

St. Croix Falls Public Library Did I read this already?

Now you can track what you have read through the MORE system’s My History. Check it out on the Web site.

The Clear Lake Public Library, on April 14 from 9-11 a.m. at the Clear Lake Area Community Center, is sponsoring a Flower and Vegetable Gardening Seminar presented by the Polk County Master Gardeners. Please preregister by calling the library at 715-263-2802. There is a $5 fee which will help fund future Gardener projects.

Celebrate National Library Week by coming to the Clear Lake Public Library on April 16, 6:30 p.m., to see Ken Anderson, author of “Mayberry Reflections: The Early Years.” This book features The Taylor Home Inn, bed and breakfast which is located in Clear Lake and owned and operated by Dave and Marsha Scheuermann.

Support your food shelf in March and April The next time you come to the library, be sure to bring some food items – you will help keep the local food shelf stocked, and the weight of your items will count toward receiving a monetary Library Hours Mon. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tues. 10 a.m. to donation from the Feinstein Foundation, 6 p.m., Wed. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thurs. 10 a group dedicated to alleviating hunger. a.m. to 2 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Don’t forget to add some grocery items to your bookbag – you’ll feel good about Sat. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. helping others in need.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009. The Dresser Public Library Board of Trustees holds its monthly meeting on the last Monday of each month at 6 p.m.

Clear Lake Public Library

gram at 6:30 p.m. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Dresser Public Library

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Balsam Lake Public Library Story time Story time is at 11 a.m. every Wednesday at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks. Please join us for this fun-packed hour.

Special event Beginners rubber stamping class will be held Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m.

- noon. All ages welcome. Learn how to start to make your own cards, invitations and bookmarkers. Class instructor has years of experience with rubber stamping.

Spring ahead Now is the time to plan those summer vegetable and flower gardens. We have a lot of how-to books to get you started in the right direction. We will be having speakers in the near future about gardening and lawn care so watch the paper.

Book lovers group This group gets together monthly to share favorite authors and books. Group will meet again on Wednesday, April 4, at 3 p.m. Read their comments of favorite books.

Knitting group Join us for an evening of knitting and crocheting. Beginners encouraged and welcome, lessons will be given. Bring a project or start a project here. Good conversation and helpful hints are guaran-

teed. We meet Monday, April 2, 6:30 – 8 p.m.

Book club “Revenge of the Middle-Aged Woman,” by Elizabeth Buchan is a modern every-woman’s tale. It is the funny, heartfelt, and sad—but definitely not tragic—story about love and how it touched 47-year-old Rose Lloyd. As a college student, Rose fell in love with a man.

His name was Hal and he loved her but also wanted to roam the world. Then she met Nathan, who wanted to marry her and raise a family. Rose loved Nathan, too, although for different reasons. She made a decision. We will meet Wednesday, April 18, at 3 p.m. Open to all ages.

Friends of the Library Friends of the Library book sale was a great success. Many books found new homes, and we still have a good start for our June book sale. We will still take donations. Friends group will meet again on Wednesday, March 28, at 1:30 p.m.

Hours Balsam Lake Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake.

Hours are Monday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.

– 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. E-mail: balsamsite lakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Osceola Public Library Hours, contact Our hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from

noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

Kindergarten round-up held at Webster WEBSTER – Forty-one students were screened during Webster’s annual kindergarten roundup held March 12-13.

The students had an opportunity to see where they will be attending school in the fall and to met their new teachers.

To give students a better idea of what to expect when school starts next September, the kindergarten staff presented a modified school day. Children listened to a story, did some kindergarten work

and enjoyed some community play time.

The future kindergarten students also ate a snack and even went on a short bus ride.

The student groups were also met by various other Webster school staff members during their visit last week. The school nurse, Brenda Pierce, screened the group for vision and hearing problems and the speech teacher, Paula Zelinski, assessed each child’s language and con-

Future Webster kindergarten student, Jacob Berg, enjoyed himself and a great big cookie during annual the kindergarten roundup held March 12-13.

Berg is the son of Kimberly Benjamin, Danbury. – Photo by Julie Hoel

Brandon Phelps, son of Tom and Melissa Phelps, Webster, showed Karen Rivers, Webster school psychologist, just how well he knows his shapes during his kindergarten readiness screening. cept development. Karen Rivers, school psychologist, visited with each child and assessed their readiness for school.

Rivers observed separation anxiety issues, how they students play with other children, how they listen to a story, and checked for audio and visual recall.

While the visiting students sampled a day in the life of a kindergarten student, their parents spent the day filling out all the appropriate forms and learning

about Webster school procedures. University of Wisconsin Extension Parenting and Nutrition Programs were represented and Tribal Parenting services also were present.

Kindergarten teacher, Julie Hoel, stated, “It’s always an exciting day when the staff welcomes these new learners and their families!” - submitted

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Prairie Fire Theatre’s “Peter Pan” on stage FREDERIC – Frederic students flew away to Neverland, as 75 local children took the stage along with two professional actors in Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre’s original musical production of “Peter Pan.” The cast was selected on Monday. With just one week of rehearsals, students performed a terrific show on Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at the Frederic Elementary School. This is Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre’s 19th residency in Frederic sponsored by Frederic Community Education with financial help from Polk-Burnett Operation Round-up.

With original script and music by Prairie Fire’s playwright and composer, Daniel Nordquist, “Peter Pan” continues the Theatre’s tradition of presenting classic tales as you’ve never seen them done before.

The local cast: Erik Stoner as Peter Pan, Julia Buck as Tinkerbelle, Amanda Koethe as Wendy, Jeremiah Mesecher as John, John Dikkers as Michael, Dawn Harlander as Nana, Anne Lexen as Mrs. Darling. Prairie Fire Theatre professionals Nicholas Saadipour and Michael Erickson as co-directors of the production played the roles of Captian Hook and Tiger Lil. The cast included: Crocodile: Candice Buck Beasts: Haley Kurkowski, Calla Karl, Emily Didlo, Isabel Lexen, Frankie Knuf

Pirates and Allie Anderson.

Indians: Jamie Taft, Brandy Graavelle, Zachary Williamson, Ryan Wiley, Allison Martin, Kyle Knauber, Alexis Fisher, Tylyn O’Brien, Anna Potvin, Marissa Jensen, Abigail Brightbill, Karl Pederson, Timothy Lund, Jonah Tinman, Freyja Vanderpaardt, Zach Kuechenmeister, Ben Kurkowski, Paul French, Russ Lindbom and Haley Coulter.

Pirates: Jack Neumann, Victoria Jensen, Catheryn McConnell, Nels Potvin, Christopher Kuechenmeister, Isabelle Burton, Jamiee Seibenthal, Harli

Allen, Cara Conway, Susan Maslowski, Samarah Beal, Haley Dikkers, Zachary Schmidt, Chris Maslowski, Kinzie Matz, Nathan Chastek, Hannah Erickson, Mary Jane Pederson, Allison Gustafson and Shayla French.

Lost Kids: Ian Lexen, Kayla Karl, Sidney Wood, Samantha Nelson, Kevin Geisen, Paige Burton, Abbey Pickard, Ashley Wendelboe, Kayla Nelson, Amber Koethe, Zane Matz, Hayden Swanson, Melana Nelson, Olivia Schauls, Brock Phernetton, Chance Conway, Thorvo Lundeen, Anders Geisen

Lost Kids from Neverland wishing for a mother.

Crocodile, Candice Buck, with The Beasts.

Indians of Neverland looking for a ballgame.

Photos submitted

The lead cast shown (L to R) back row are: Amanda Koethe as Wendy, Dawn Harlander as Nana, Julia Buck as Tinkerbelle, Erik Stoner as Peter Pan, John Dikkers as Michael and Jeremiah Mesecher as John. Front: Anne Lexen as Mrs Darling.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

Art students display talents at SCFalls

Members of the St. Croix Falls Middle School band performed three musical selections during the art festival. Other music groups within the middle and high school had scheduled performances during the art festival.

Photos by Tammi Milberg

Plaster of Paris was used in this piece.

Sculptures by St. Croix Falls High School and Middle School art students were on display at the Festival of the Arts held at the school March 15.

These girls browse over the art on display.

Emily Pfaltzgraff painted these series of portraits of herself (right) and her sibling (left).

A mask was made out of plaster and decorated for this art project.

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Panda King resturant completes expansion

by Julie Holmquist ST. CROIX FALLS - The Panda King Chinese Restaurant on Hwy. 8 in St. Croix Falls is looking much more spacious these days.

Owner Mark Merricks completed an expansion of the restaurant this week, allowing for multiple booths and tables.

The restaurant, which opened five years ago, simply expanded into the former ReMax space in the strip mall near WalMart, adjacent to their current location.

“This will be a lot more comfortable for the eat-in crowd,” Merricks said.

“They won’t be sitting on top of each other.”

Prior to the expansion, the restaurant was so small that 70 percent of the business was take-out orders, Merricks said.

With an upgraded restaurant, Merricks said Panda King will now use real plates and silverware instead of plastic silverware and disposal food containers for the eat-in customers.

“With all the growth in the area, we decided to take the plunge,” Merricks said of the expansion.

The menu will remain the same, he said, although more items may be added in the future.

The expanded business sports new carpeting, paper lanterns transported here all the way from Taiwan, and decorative artwork from Chicago’s Chinatown.

Owner Mark Merricks (far right, in striped shirt) and Panda King employees take a break in the newly expanded restaurant. – Photo by Julie Holmquist Panda King is a family business, run

by Merricks and his wife Amy, who moved with her family to the U.S. from Taiwan when she was 16. Amy’s family

has been in the restaurant business for 25 years. The Merricks live in Dresser and have three children.

Panda King is open seven days a week,

Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Cat in the Hat visits Frederic Library

John Magnuson and Emma Karl show off the “10 apples up on top” pictures they made during a special Dr. Seuss story hour March 14 at the Frederic Library.

The Cat in the Hat (Marlene Nelson) helped reader Joey Magnuson entertain the children during the Frederic Library story hour March 14.

Photos submitted

Children and their adult helpers b u s i l y worked on Dr. Seuss projects during March 14 story hour at the Frederic Library.

The Cat in the Hat (Marlene Nelson) visited Frederic Library story hour March 14 and shared a toy with one of the children.

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St. Patrick’s Day parade on Yellow Lake

St. Patrick’s Day participants outside Yellow Lake’s 10th hole.

This guy was catching a ride on a St. Patrick’s Day parade float on Yellow Lake.

Photos by Sherill Summer

The best path to fitness health is to be 100-percent fad free Diet fads come and go, and some may help you lose weight – in the short term.

For March, National Nutrition Month, the American Dietetic Association says the most effective long-term way to achieve a healthful lifestyle is to be 100-percent Gail Fad Free. The real key to Peavey reaching long-term goals is to focus on your overall health by: • Developing an eating plan for lifelong health. Too often, people adopt the latest fad rather than focusing on overall health. Get back to basics and use the new Guidelines for Americans and MyPyramid as your guide to healthy eating.

• Choosing foods sensibly by looking at the big picture. A single food or meal won’t make or break a healthful diet. When consumed in moderation in appropriate portions, all foods can fit into a healthful diet. Learn how to spot a food fad. Unreasonable or exaggerated claims that eating (or not eating) specific foods, nutrient supplements, or combinations of foods may cure disease or offer quick weight loss are key features of fad diets.

• Finding your balance between food and physical activity. Regular physical activity is important for your overall health and fitness, plus it helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

• Food and nutrition misinformation can have harmful effects on your health and well-being, as well as your wallet. Registered dietitians are uniquely qualified to communicate current and emerging science-based nutrition information and are an instrumental part of developing a diet plan that meets your individual needs.

Through National Nutrition Month, created in 1973, the American Dietetic Association promotes healthful eating by providing practical nutrition guidance and focusing attention on making informed food choices and developing sound physical activity habits. National Nutrition Month also reminds consumers that registered dietitians are their most valuable and credible source of timely, science-based information. – from American Dietetic Association

Polk County Family Living

Heading down the hill towards Ike Walton Lodge on Yellow Lake; the next stop for the 15th-annual Yellow Lake St. Patrick’s Day parade.

New owner of former Chach’ka plans for grill and bar Mid-May target date for grill to open

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–Jarad Brunfelt, new owner of the former Chach’ka building in St. Croix Falls, says he closed on the building and is doing some work on the inside to make way for a grill and bar.

“We want to turn half of the building into a burger joint and the other half into a wine bar,” he said. “We are looking at a grill with family dining, open for lunch and dinner with hamburgers and chicken sandwiches and that type of menu.”

Brunfelt said that the grill portion should be open mid-to-late May, but the target date is May 15. He said the wine bar will start as a wine bar for now until they could apply for a full liquor license.

“The wine bar will be a lounge setting and a gathering place and hopefully that would be open in June at the latest,” he said.

Brunfelt said that the building is essentially two buildings in one and that the left side of the building, or the former A-Z Mortgage portion, will be developed into a restaurant and the right side, or former retail portion of the building, will be a wine bar. No plans for the lower level are made at this time, but Brunfelt stated he is looking at that space for booking private parties. The upper level of the former bed and breakfast is currently an apartment.

He is working with Laurie Abrams who will be managing the business.

He said he has been kicking around some name ideas for the grill and the wine bar, but has not come up with any names at this point. Brunfelt is the sole owner of the building and has a manager working with him and will be hiring staff locally as things move closer to open-

Jarad Brunfelt, owner, and Laurie Abrams, manager, are pictured inside the former Chach’ka building on Main Street in St. Croix Falls. The building is being turned into a grill for family dining and a wine bar with a relaxed, eclectic atmosphere. – Photo by Tammi Milberg ing. Brunfelt recently worked at a Scandia, Minn., restaurant and is familiar with the restaurant business.

It is there that he worked with Abrams as a manager and when he decided to buy the business in St. Croix Falls, he asked Abrams to be the manager. He said that he has been working in the building almost daily and has had several people stop in asking about the plans.

“We are really excited about it and to be part of the downtown,” Brunfelt said. “The building has a lot of character. We have had positive comments from the people who have been stopping by.”

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EDUCATION VIBRATIONS Hundreds of students to participate in music festival WEBSTER – More than 400 students will participate in a Wisconsin School Music Association sanctioned Solo and Ensemble Music Festival on Tuesday, March 27, hosted by Webster High School.

This festival will draw students from 10 area schools, including: Amery, Frederic, Grantsburg, Luck, Osceola, Siren, St. Croix Falls, Siren, Somerset, Unity and Webster.

During solo and ensemble festivals, students prepare vocal or instrumental solos, duets, trios, or small ensembles to perWebster form before an adjudicator.

High School will have over 10 performance sites located throughout their 5-12

building. The festival is free and open to the public. It will begin at 8 a.m. and ends at about 3:30 p.m.

The primary purposes of this festival are: establishing standards of quality for music literature; motivate students to prepare and perform to the best of their abilities; improve students’ understanding of music; and support improvement of school music programs through individual and group achievement. WSMA believes music is a basic human need, and that all children have the right to experience all that music offers them. – submitted

Siren to present “Anchors Aweigh” SIREN – Siren High School presents “Anchors Aweigh,” a comedy on the high seas. Join the crew and passengers of the S.S. Flounder as they set sail for fun at the Siren High School auditorium.

Performances are Thursday, March 22,

and Friday, March 23, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 25, at 2 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 years old and younger. Tickets are available at the door. – submitted

Yo u c a n s u b s c r i b e online @ w w w. t h e - l e a d e r. n e t

Talent sought for variety show

SIREN – The Siren Music Booster Organization is once again seeking talented individuals or groups to perform for their well-known Community Variety Show. A diverse number of acts will be accepted which may include singing, dancing, comedy routines, drama skits, or other unique talents.

The length of time permitted (in the past) has been approximately five to 10 minutes per act.

Auditions will be held on Monday, April 16, from 3:30 to 8 p.m. in the Siren

School Auditorium located in Siren near CTH B and Bradley Street. All proceeds from this show will help to benefit the Siren School Music Department.

This is a wonderful opportunity to support the school music department, have a great time, and show the area residents all the talent that our community has to offer! For more information, please call Bonnie at 715-497-2230 or JoAnn at 715-349-5200 or 715-349-5661.

The variety show will be held on Sunday, April 29, at 2 p.m. - submitted

“Bye, Bye Birdie” to be performed ST. CROIX FALLS– Remember the days of poodle skirts, bobby socks, slicked-back hair and getting pinned?

Take a stroll down memory lane as St. Croix Falls High School Drama presents the energy-filled musical “Bye Bye Birdie” at the Historic Festival Theatre beginning Thursday.

Performances are March 22-24 at 7 p.m. and March 30-31 at 7 p.m. Additional matinees are March 24 and 31 at 2 p.m. To reserve tickets call 715-4839823 ext. 232. Prices for tickets are $4 students/seniors and $5 adults. – submitted

News from the Service Air Force Airman Justin S. Lundeen has graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

During the six weeks of training, the airman studied the Air Force mission, organization, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches, and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relations.

In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

He is the son of Pam Ott of Webster.

Lundeen is a 2003 graduate of Webster High School.

Justin S. Lundeen

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Frederic students to present “The Fighting Littles”

The Little Family. Shown (L to R) back row: Goody, Dawn Harlander and Filmer, Joel Knauber Front row: Mr. Little, Bryan Knauber and Mrs. Little, Emily Didlo. – Photo submitted FREDERIC - Members of the Frederic High School Drama Club have been rehearsing for the past several weeks, preparing for the spring play “The Fighting Littles.”

They will present the play the last weekend in March.

“The Fighting Littles” is written by Caroline Francke and adapted from the novel of the same name by the Pulitzer prize-winning American novelist, Booth Tarkington. Set in the early 1940s, this comedy centers around the squabbles, misunderstandings and reconciliations of the Little family and their close friends. Mr. and Mrs. Little (played by Bryan Knauber and Emily Didlo) certainly have their hands full. Their teenage daughter (Dawn Harlander) is running with hoodlums, and 12-year-old Filmer (Joel Knauber) is quite the tough guy.

Add to the cast a respectable, young businessman; his philanthropic aunt; a

flirtatious Southern friend; a helpful and kind cousin; a dancer immersed in her “Egyptian” phase; a “bad” boy; the family maid; and teenage girls; and let the action ensue. The Frederic High School production will feature 1940s costumes, set, and music, and old-fashioned refreshments offered during intermissions.

Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 30 and 31, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, April 1, at 2 p.m. at the Birch Street Elementary School in Frederic.

Tickets are available at the door, with admission set at $4 for adults, $3 for children, and $3 for senior citizens.

Seating begins one half-hour before curtain.

A note from Mrs. Kathy Lexen and Mrs. Julie Bever (directors): Although this play is appropriate for the whole family, it is long and rich in dialogue so it may be tough for very young children to sit through. – submitted

Siren Middle School students competed in Level 1 meet

Siren Middle School Forensics students have competed in the Level 1 meet at Hayward, and the Level 2 meet at Eau Claire during third quarter. Pictured above are (L to R) back row: Amber Hall, Carley Emery, Jacob Stiemann, Ashley Guevara, Abigail Mitchell and coach Ms. Goalen. (L to R) front row: Tricia Kopecky and Kaylene Johnson. At the Level 2 meet Emery and Guevara impressed the judges and were awarded first place in Reader’s Theater. Stiemannstunned the audience with his Prose Reading of “Where the Red Fern Grows” and received first place. Mitchell and Hall earned second place with their rendition of two sisters who poison each other in the story “Amelia May I.” Kopecky and Johnson performed “The Boutique” and received a red ribbon at Level 1 competition. – submitted

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Kickoff breakfast for Luck’s ACS Run/Walk Finish Line LUCK – The 12th-annual Luck American Cancer Society Run/Walk Finish Line kickoff breakfast was held Friday, March 16, at Hog Wild. Representatives from local organizations and businesses attended to review packets of information to this year’s event, including registration and Tribute Flag forms.

Registration remains at $5 and a T-shirt is given with $60 in pledges. Registration forms are also available at Wayne’s Foods Plus and Rural American Bank.

Patti Mattson, event committee chair-

man, introduced the representatives from the corporate co-sponsors: Luck’s Amery Regional Medical Center, Larsen Auto Centers and St. Croix Valley Hardwoods.

Schary Shouse, American Cancer Society representative, spoke on some of the current hot topics for the ACS: $1.25 tax for cigarettes, HPV vaccine. She reports that 81 cents of every dollar goes for research, education, prevention and detection.

This year’s honorary co-chairmen are

Colonial Craft receives the Fiscal Year 2006 Homeshield Lean President’s Award

On Feb. 20, Homeshield Fenestration Components (a subsidiary of Quanex) chose their Colonial Craft Luck division as the Fiscal Year 2006 Homeshield Lean President’s Award winner. This recognition of achievement is earned by one of the seven Homeshield divisions that show, among other things, “an exceptional level of diligence in striving to continuously improve their operations through the execution of Lean Principles.” The award has been up for grabs for the last four years and, up until now, no Homeshield facility has been able to meet the strict and challenging base criteria to qualify for it. In the never-ending journey to becoming a world class competitor in an increasingly global economy, Colonial Craft has shown itself to be a company that is both innovative and efficient. President Mark Hermann and Vice President Sam Lewis were in Luck to present the award to Steve Pisca (current operations manager), Jeff Smith (operations manager up to 2007), Greg Julson (project manager and head of lean and quality), and Ben Bolopue (lean enterprise lead). “Although only those named in this article are pictured receiving the award, let it be known that if it weren’t for the exceptional work ethic, level of creativity, and aptitude for change that every person working at Colonial Craft poses, this award would have been earned by another division,” notes a press release from Colonial Craft. “Gratitude goes out to every Colonial Craft employee along with the challenge to continue their efforts and reclaim the award next year.” Shown (L to R) are Mark Hermann, Sam Lewis, Steve Pisca, Jeff Smith, Greg Julson and Ben Bolopue. – Photo submitted

The Leader is a cooperativeowned newspaper

cancer survivors Carol Giller and Cheryl Langness. Cheryl told about her battle with a very rare, high-grade, extremely aggressive synovial sarcoma diagnosed shortly after a pedicure, resulting in a partial loss of her foot.

Joan Chaffe told about the Foot A Buck feet that will be available to purchase for $1 at local businesses. Last year this project brought in about $700.

Marcia Anderson spoke about Tribute Flags. For a $10 minimum donation, flags In Memory Of or In Honor Of will again line the beginning of the run/walk route. Send donations (one name per flag) to her at 1512 Lake Ave, Luck, WI 54853.

Sheila Berklund told that for the past five years she has been baking cookies to

raise money for this event by asking for a donation for them. She now makes them year-round to keep fighting cancer in the spotlight all the time.

Margie Nelson bakes cinnamon rolls to raise money for cancer. They can be ordered at Rural American Bank and are delivered fresh daily.

Door prizes were donated by Hog Wild (gift certificate), Wilkins (gift certificate), Flowers Forever (gift certificate), Nails by Cathy/Edina Reality (bag of products), Margie Nelson (cinnamon rolls) and Sheila Berklund (cookies).

This year’s one-, three- or five-mile run/walk is Saturday, May 12, at Luck High School. For further information, contact Patti Mattson at 715-472-2654. – submitted

New manager for PBSS helm at this very successCENTURIA – Steve ful company, and I look A. Glaim, general manforward to building on its ager for Polk-Burnett, is reputation for excellence pleased to announce in customer service, systhat Mike Walsh has tem design and installabeen hired as the mantion. I also plan to ager of Polk-Burnett Secultivate our range of curity Services, effective products and services Feb. 26. that enhance homes, cab“Mike brings extenins and commercial propsive managerial backerties, including custom ground to PBSS,” said theater technologies and Glaim. “Our customers central vacuum systems.” and employees will PBSS is a locally owned benefit greatly from his and operated division of experience and leaderPolk-Burnett Electric Coship abilities.”

Walsh has a degree in Mike Walsh of New Rich- operative. The company business administration mond is the new manager of serves more than 3,000 customers from UW-Eau Claire Polk-Burnett Security Ser- security throughout northwestern and has worked in the vices. – Photo submitted Wisconsin, Upper Michitelephone industry for gan and greater Minmore than 30 years; his professional experience includes general nesota. Its systems are designed to offer manager for Hager TeleCom, chief oper- protection from theft, fire, freezing temations officer for Amery Telcom and vice peratures, flooding and carbon monoxpresident/general manager for St. Croix ide. Medical emergency alarms, video Telephone. From 1995-97, he was the surveillance and controlled-entry sysCEO/general manager of the Coopera- tems are also available. In addition, PBSS tive Response Center in Austin, Minn., offers state-of-the art theater and sound which serves as Polk-Burnett’s after- systems for home and business applicahours call center and the central monitor- tions. PBSS is an authorized GE Security Pro dealer. ing station for PBSS. For more information, contact PBSS at “PBSS is recognized today as one of the best companies in the security busi- 800-325-7277. – from Polk-Burnett ness,” said Walsh, “I’m proud to take the

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Balsam Lake, Cloquet students earn top honors in UW-Superior art show SUPERIOR – Bennie Skinaway, a senior at Unity School in Balsam Lake, won a $1,000 art scholarship to the University of Wisconsin-Superior for artwork judged the best in the university’s eighth-annual American Indian Art Scholarship Exhibit.

Skinaway, St. Croix Ojibwe, won the competition with his work titled “Ink Engraving.” Artwork was judged by faculty members of UW-Superior’s Visual Arts Department.

Placing second in the judging was Geno Whiteman, Bois Forte Ojibwe, a senior at Fond du Lac Ojibwe School in Cloquet, Minn., with a work titled “Orange and Blue Painting.” Dawna Martineau, Fond du Lac Ojibwe, a

sophomore at Fond du Lac Ojibwe School in Cloquet, earned third place with her work, “Beaded Bag.” Students who earned honorable mention are: • Ellen Janssen, Apache, a freshman at Barnum School in Barnum, Minn., for an acrylic painting titled “Solitary Apple.”

• Merrill Leoso, St. Croix Ojibwe, a senior at Unity School in Balsam Lake, for “Silver-Turquoise Ring.”

• James NicKence, Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe, a junior at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe School in Hayward, for “Digital Photo.”

• Tahnee Koutsky, Bois Forte Ojibwe, a junior at Deer River High School in Deer River, Minn., for the photograph ti-

tled “Back in the Woods.”

The American Indian Art Scholarship Exhibit recognizes outstanding Native American high school students from around the Northland, and provides an opportunity for their work to be shown alongside work by professional artists.

The exhibit runs through March 28 in Kruk Gallery in the Holden Fine and Applied Arts Center at UW-Superior.

Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. A reception for the artists and the presentation of the scholarship will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, in Kruk Gallery. Original artwork and prints by professional artists will be offered for sale during the exhibit and from 4:30 to 6 p.m. before the reception at the

gallery.

For more information call 715-3948391. For directions to UW-Superior and maps of campus, go online to www.uwsuper.edu/directions.

UW-Superior is Wisconsin’s leading public liberal arts college, preparing students for lifelong learning and offering solid career preparation. A member of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges, UW-Superior offers more than 30 undergraduate academic programs as well as graduate, continuing education and distance learning programs. - from UW-Superior

St. Croix Valley Healthcare Foundation requests applicants for scholarships ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Valley Healthcare Foundation now has applications available for scholarships for area high school seniors pursuing a degree in a health care field. For many years, the foundation has provided scholarship assistance of varying amounts to students from area commu-

nities and children of medical center employees, who are furthering their education and who have been accepted to an accredited program of training for health care occupations.

Each year, a percentage of foundation funds, including memberships, are earmarked for this scholarship award pro-

gram. Past scholarship recipients now are putting their education and experience to work in our region, and several are SCRMC employees.

To request an application, please contact Sandy Williams, director of Development, Education and Marketing at St. Croix Regional Medical Center, 715-4830247, or stop by the medical center and

ask for an application. You may also request a copy by e-mail. Send the e-mail request to Sandra.williams@scrmc.org and put “High School Scholarship Application” in the subject line. The deadline for application submissions is April 15.

Winners will be selected and notified at school awards night. – submitted

Local artists display work in Hraychuck’s office

Pictured with their artwork, (L to R): Sarah Dudgeon, Jack Rogers, Jerry Boucher and 28th Assembly District Rep. Ann Hraychuck. – Photo submitted MADISON – On Wednesday, March 7, people from arts organizations throughout Wisconsin, including the 28th Assembly District, met to celebrate and communicate the importance of the arts to the Legislature. As part of the Arts Wisconsin legislative day, several artists from Rep. Ann Hraychuck’s district have their work on display in her Madison office.

“I am pleased to be able to support this effort by exhibiting the work of several 28th District artists in my office,” said Rep. Hraychuck.

The artwork includes beautiful black and white photography by Jerry Boucher. Boucher works from his studio, Schoolhouse Productions, in Clear Lake and lives just outside of Amery.

Also on exhibit is a colorful contempo-

rary photo-collage by Jack Rogers who also lives and works in Amery. Along with this two-dimensional work, on display are two beautiful pieces of pottery: a striking wood-fired piece by Sarah Dudgeon from Little Falls and another

by Kelsey Anderson, a recent Unity graduate presently attending UW-River Falls.

“It is important to recognize our artists by showcasing their work at the state Capitol. This is a great way to support the creativity of artists living in our community and I look forward to exhibiting more interesting pieces in the future,” said Rep. Hraychuck.

This display is made possible through the efforts of the Northern Lakes Center for the Arts in Amery. – submitted

Taylors Falls is seeking ornament maker TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – The Taylors Falls Lighting Festival theme has been chosen. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Hydro Electric Plant and Dam on the St. Croix River, the theme is “Lighting.”

The festival committee is looking for an artisan/crafter to design and produce the 300 limited edition, numbered ornaments. Ideas might include a light bulb

of sorts or a design incorporating the evolution of lighting: such as a replica of an electrified candle or small old-fashioned wreath with electrified candle. Of course, the committee is open to all ideas around the theme.

For specific information, please contact the Lighting Festival chair, Barbara Young at 651-465-6635. Aspects of the project are negotiable. - submitted

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Luck Cub Scouts held Pinewood Derby

Open Class Speed, (L to R): Tony Aguado, third place; Derek Hendrickson, second place; Kyle Hunter, first place.

Luck Cub Scouts Pack 147 held their Pinewood Derby on Sat., March 10. Pack 147 Cub Scout Pinewood Derby Competitors: Front row (L to R): Ben Broten, Christopher Pouliot, Jacob Peper, Jack Johansen, Nick Aguado, Seth Holm and Tanner VanMeter. Middle row: Aage Rovney, Devyn Ellefson, Hunter Hanson, Steven Holdt, Taylor Hawkins, CJ Haasnoot, Jacob Aguado, Noah Mortel and Luke Woltz. Back row: Jared Hunter, Sean HaasScouts Design, (L to R): Luke Woltz, fifth place; Danny Horky in noot, Jordan Hendrickson, Derek Hutton and Danny and Melissa Horky racing in memory memory of Zach Wolfe, fourth place; Ben Broten, third place; Tay- of Zach Wolfe. Open Class Design winners were Tony Aguado, second place; Derek Hendrickson, third place; Dawn Holm, first place. Scouts Speed, winners were Jared Hunter, lor Hawkins, second place; Noah Mortel, first place. fifth place; Christopher Pouliot, fourth place; Noah Mortel, third place; Steven Holdt, second place; Aage Rovney, first place. – Photos submitted

Siren students and senior citizens friends visit Children’s Theatre

A bus load of smiling faces before the bus departs for Minneapolis, Minn.

SIREN – Last Thursday, March 15, fourthgraders from the Siren school and their senior citizen friends traveled to the Children’s Theatre in Minneapolis, Minn., to see “Huck Finn.” The group traveled in a comfortable Greyhound bus to view the live performance of the adventures of Huck and his runawayslave friend, Jim, on the mighty Mississippi River. A trip to McDonalds was also on the agenda. All of this was funded by a grant from Burnett County’s Safe and Stable Families. – Sherill Summer

Reid Halverson and his senior friend, Abby Brand, board the bus to see “Huck Finn” at the Children’s Theatre in Minneapolis, Minn. – Photos by Sherill Summer

Benefit dinner for JoAnn Sellent set MCKINLEY – Friends of JoAnnSellent are hosting a turkey dinner on Sunday, March 25, from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a bake sale, raffles and silent auctions. These will continue until 4 p.m. This benefit will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Hwy. 48 in McKinley.

Funds raised will help with recent medical bills. Stellent works at the Cumberland ECU, taking care of our friends and relatives.

Care in Community Funds from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans have been applied for. The Turkey Store in Barron has donated to the meal. – submitted

Hunter’s chili supper

CENTURIA – A free hunter’s chili supper will be hosted by Centuria Assembly of God on Saturday, March 24, at 5:30 p.m.

There will be a drawing for a free Mathews bow, a Genesis bow, as well as other prizes. The speaker will be Randy McPherson.

Randy is from Minneapolis, Minn., where he lives with his wife Susan. They have four children, all of which act more grown up and mature than their father. Randy is an avid outdoorsman who grew up as the oldest of seven, in a hunting and fishing family. His brother, Matt McPherson, owns Matthews Archery, the world’s largest archery manufacturer.

If it walks on all fours, flies or swims, Randy has probably tried to hunt it or catch it. His favorite

pastime is bow hunting, and with his bow and arrow he has harvested numerous whitetail deer, mule deer, elk, caribou and black bear. He even has one black bear in the Pope and Young record book. He’s hunted or fished in 17 different U.S. states and four Canadian provinces, but his favorite place to hunt is on his 400-plus-acre farm in Wisconsin.

Randy loves to share the life lessons he has learned from his outdoor experiences.

Pastor Don Wiltshire, also an avid hunter, extends an invitation to area men, women and youth to attend this event. The church is located on the corner of Hwy. 35 and 5th Street, across from Interstate Veterinary Service. – submitted

Helen McCann White to be honored BALSAM LAKE - The Polk County Historical Society will meet Tuesday, March 27, at the Polk County Justice Center in Balsam Lake, at 7:15 p.m. The group will honor Helen McCann White as Polk County History Woman of the Year and have a program on The Last Frontier – Alaska – Our 49th State. Rey Lark, Jay Bergstrand and Darrell Kittleson will be guides as we

ride the Alaska railroad, travel the highways, see the sights of the glaciers, mountains and hear about the incredible musk ox.

Refreshments will be served following the program. Board meeting at 5:45 p.m. Please contact Muriel Pfeifer at 715-2686578 or e-mail mpfeifer@amerytel.net for further information. - submitted

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MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

OBITUARIES Christal L. Honts Christal L. Honts, age 35, of Webster, died on March 16, 2007, at the Frederic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Frederic, due to injuries of an automobile accident that occurred on Dec. 8, 2006.

Christal was born on March 29, 1971, in Grantsburg, to John H. and Rhunae L. Honts. She attended Webster Schools and graduated from Siren High School. She was a resident of the Webster area her entire life.

Christal is preceded in death by her father; one son, Steven and her grandparents.

Christal is survived by her sons Bradley and Aaron; mother, Rhunae Buskirk, Webster; sisters Sheila Simon, Webster and Melissa Honts, Somerset; brother Mathew Simon, Danbury; nieces Hailey and Trisha; nephew Douglas and other relatives and friends.

A visitation was held on Tuesday, March 20, at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Robert R. Lumsden Robert R. Lumsden died March 6, 2007, at the age of 98, a resident of the United Pioneer Home, Luck, since 2002.

He was born Jan. 28, 1909, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Lottie and Samuel Lumsden. He was a longtime resident of the Manitou Lake Community. He was united in marriage to Marcella Larson April 26, 1934. They moved to Luck in 1968.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years in 2003; and daughter, Marcia Longnecker.

He is survived by Robert (Lavonne) Lumsden of St. Croix Falls, Charlotte (William) Rovney of Luck, Lois (William) Jensen of Birchwood; son-in-law, Gordon Longnecker of Rome, Texas; grandchildren, Liz Decker, Tara (Paul) Anderson, Jon Lumsden, William (Kim) Rovney, Steve (Tye Theroux) Lumsden, Mark (Jodi) Lumsden, Jason Lumsden, Scott Lumsden, William (Jennifer) Jensen and Julie (Matt) Ziehme; great-grandchildren Robby and Terrie Jo Lumsden, William Aage Rovney, Dalton Anderson, Shawn Lumsden, Sarah and Adam Ziehme, and Luke Lumsden; step-great-grandchildren, Cheryl, Andy, Jill Anderson, Jessica and Cory Theroux; sister-in-law, Marjorie Larson; special friends Cindy Vanganess, Merlyn and Al Swanson; and a host of longtime family and friends.

Funeral services were held at Luck Lutheran Church in Luck, on March 10, with Pastor Mark Hall officiating.

Pallbearers were grandsons. Honorary pallbearers were grandchildren.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck was entrusted with the arrangements.

Mabel Chapman Sutton Mabel Sutton, Lewis, died March 1, 2007, at the age of 95. She had been recuperating from hip surgery at the Frederic Care Center.

Mabel was born on Feb. 4, 1912, to Joe and Bertha Chapman in Nebraska. The family moved to Lewis in 1918.

Mabel attended Frederic High School until she was 13 years old.

She moved to Minneapolis, Minn., and worked as a housekeeper. In 1929, she moved to Pontiac, Mich., where she worked as a seamstress. In 1930, she opened the Flora Mae Gift Shop in Pontiac, Mich., and later took her sister Florence as a partner.

Mabel married Allison Sutton in 1942, in Pontiac, Mich. They had one daughter, Jody.

During her life, she also lived in North Carolina and California.

She returned to Wisconsin with her husband in 1986.

She was instrumental in the formation of the Frederic Historical Society. She also served on the Frederic Library Board, and was a member of the Siren Lioness Club. In 1999, Mabel moved into the Campbell house in Lewis, where she used to play as a child.

Mabel was preceded in death be her husband; parents; sisters Eleanor Broberg, Florence Griffith; brothers Clarence, Jim and Robert Chapman.

She is survived by daughter Jody (Glenn) Pearson, Siren; stepdaughter Marilyn (Jack) Williams, Mich.; stepson Larry Sutton, Mich.; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

A private ceremony was held at her bedside at The Frederic Care Center, after her passing. Mabel’s wish is for the family to have a memorial picnic in her honor at the old Chapman home place this spring.

Lorna Pauline Swanberg

Melvin J. Reis

Lorna Pauline Swanberg of Grantsburg, died on March 16, 2007, at the age of 94.

Lorna was born Sept. 3, 1912, to Axel and Ruth Swanberg, the first of eight children. After graduating as valedictorian of her class at Grantsburg High School in 1930, she continued her education, receiving degrees from UW-River Falls and Superior. Her teaching career began in schools in Burnett County, where she taught for 15 years. She then accepted a position with the Robbinsdale, Minn., school district, where she remained for 27 years, the last 18 years as principal of Neill Elementary School.

In 1975, she retired and returned home to Grantsburg. Lorna was passionate about education and about every student having the opportunity to succeed. Even as principal, she took the time to get to know her students on an individual basis.

Lorna was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers and two sisters.

She is survived by her sister, Eloise Erickson; nephews Daniel (Denise) Erickson and Stephen Swanberg; niece Patricia Erickson; grandnieces Sarah and Mary Erickson; sister-in-law Veloise Swanberg and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Faith Lutheran Church, Grantsburg Public Library and Grantsburg Area Historical Society.

Funeral services will by on Saturday, March 24, at 2 p.m., at Faith Lutheran Church in Grantsburg. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.

The Edling Funeral Home of Grantsburg was entrusted with the arrangements.

Melvin J. Reis, age 82, died March 12, 2007, at Regions Hospital, St. Paul, Minn.

Mel was a proud member of the Frederic Council 6370 Knights of Columbus and a 55-year member of the Boilermakers Local Lodge 647.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eva and Louis Reis; brothers, Bernard, Clem and Bob. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Arleen; daughter, Linda and Eugene Wynn Sr.; grandson, Eugene Wynn Jr., and his fiancé Heather; brothers, Louis (Mary Ellen), Jim (JoAnn) and Dick (Shirley); sisters, Elaine Keller and Mary Tri (Len); many nieces, nephews, friends and other family members.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with arrangements.

EDLING FUNERALHOME 201 N. Adams St. St. Croix Falls, WI (715) 483-3141

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Delbert E. Duncan Delbert E. Duncan, 83, Amery, died Tuesday, March 13, 2007, in Socorro, N.M, on this way home from Tucson, Ariz.

Delbert was born on Dec. 7, 1923, in Frederic, to Earl and Elnora Duncan. He and his wife, Corinne Duncan (nee Hatlestad) would have celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in October.

After graduating from Frederic High School, Delbert and Corinne farmed in Clam Falls and Frederic. They moved to Minneapolis, Minn., to find work and would eventually run a variety of retail stores in the Twin Cities. In 1964, he started a Montgomery Wards catalog agency in Amery. He retired in 1983 at which time he spent the next four years building his current home on Hwy. 8.

For the past two years, Delbert has “fought the good fight” against cancer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother.

He is survived by his wife, Corinne; daughter, Sharon (Gary) Roehm; grandsons, Steve (Jodi) Roehm, Scott (Kayo Merritt); and great-granddaughters, Cora and Linnea Roehm; brother, Leo (Irene) Duncan; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held March 20 at Balsam Lutheran Church. Pastor Matt Saarem officiated. Interment was at Maple Grove Cemetery in Frederic.

Pallbearers were Gary Roehm, Steve Roehm, Scott Roehm, Don Duncan, Dave Bergland and Dick Nelson.

The Williamson Funeral Home, Amery, was entrusted with arrangements.

Larry E. Java Larry E. Java, 70, of Webster, died on March 18, 2007, at the Burnett Medical Center at Grantsburg.

Time of gathering will be on Friday, March 23, from 5-7 p.m., at the Swedberg - Taylor Funeral Home at Webster. There will be a Music Jam at 7 p.m., following the time of gathering at the funeral home.

Memorial services will be on Saturday, March 24, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Webster, with a visitation for one-half hour prior to the service.

The Swedberg – Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

C. Allan Benson C. Allan Benson, age 88 of Clear Lake, died on Tuesday, March 13, 2007, at the Willow Ridge Health Care Center in Amery, where he had been a resident for the past several months.

Charles Allan Benson was born on May 26, 1918, in Clear Lake, the son of Charles and Rose (Turcott) Benson. He was baptized in infancy at St. John’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake and he attended Clear Lake schools, graduating in 1937. After graduation, Allan went to work with his father at the Clearol Oil Company station in Clear Lake. In 1940, he was married to Illa Mae Winchell and together they raised one son, David. Allan entered the U.S. Army in 1944 and served in the Philippines and the Japanese occupation as a first Sergeant in the field artillery. He received the good conduct medal, American defense service ribbon and two overseas bars. After Allan was honorably discharged in 1946, he returned to the Clearol station and remodeled the building. In a short while, he acquired the Pontiac/GMC and Minneapolis Moline machinery franchise, and Allan and his brother Douglas purchased the Clearol Oil Company station from their father. His brother left in 1966 to return to the service and later the propane franchise held by Clearol was sold to Russell Scott. After Allan suffered a heart attack in 1972, Wayne Clark worked as manager while he was recuperating. At this time, the bulk gas business was sold to Gene Kuhl.

Allan was also very active in the Clear Lake community. He served for 25 years on the board of directors for the Bank of Clear Lake and also served for many years on the cemetery board. Allan was also mayor of the village of Clear Lake for 10 years. He was active in village affairs and was instrumental in getting the Clear Lake golf course developed. In 1977, his wife Illa Mae died and his son David returned to Clear Lake to work with his father who was retiring. In 1981, Allan was married to Irma Westring of Frederic. The Clearol garage was donated to the village and became the Clear Lake Village Ambulance Service. He also contributed monetarily to the Clear Lake Museum, Community Center, Veterans Memorial, and other causes.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Illa Mae; his parents, Charles and Rose Benson; brother, Douglas Benson; sisters, Mildred (Louie) Stirens, Vie (Walt) Josephson and Beverlie (Howard) Mewes.

He is survived by his wife, Irma Benson of Clear Lake; son, David (Jan) Benson of Star Prairie; stepdaughters, Doris Hofmeister of Vadnais Heights, Minn., and Pauline (Frank) Yanez of Blaine, Minn.; granddaughter, Amber (Sean) Cadotte of Bayfield; three great-grandsons; seven step-grandchildren; stepgreat-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Bev Benson of Eau Claire; and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held at the First Lutheran Church in Clear Lake on Friday, March 16, with Pastor Bryan Anderson officiating. Organist was Juanita Wood. Interment was at the Clear Lake Cemetery. Military honors were provided by Clear Lake Area Veterans Honor Guard. Casket bearers were Bennie Bannik, Robin Larson, Lyman Dreier, Don Weber, Gene Kuhl and Scott Wood.

The Scheuermann-Hammer Funeral Home, Clear Lake, was entrusted with arrangements.

Eleanor Karr Eleanor Karr, age 93, of Siren, died on Monday, March 19, 2007, at Capeside Cove Good Samaritan Center at Siren. A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 26, at 11 a.m., at the Clover Community Church.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

CHURCH NEWS Recovering from hurts, habits and hang-ups As a youngster, I often escaped the tension of my fighting parents by reading books or making up “what if?” stories in my head.

Those habits stayed with me for many years. Even today as I strug- Sally Bair gle to recover from certain hangups, I find myself escaping through the pages of a book. PERSPECTIVES Nowadays, however, I read for the sheer pleasure of it or to learn something new that I might apply to my life.

We all struggle with hurts, habits, or hang-ups. If we cling to them, we may find ourselves escaping into fantasy, like I did as a child.

Or, we may take on the destructive habit of worry or resentment. Or depression. Or separation from family, friends, and even God. Many people even become dysfunctional, compulsive, or addictive in their behavior to escape their pain.

The first step towards freedom from such negative behaviors and feelings is to realize that we’re powerless to control our hurts, habits and hang-ups. Then, we must admit our helplessness to God so he can bring healing. We will then find ourselves serving God rather than our habits, hurts or hang-ups.

Celebrate Recovery is a Christian-based program for anyone who struggles with hurts from the past (and present), bad habits, and emotional hang-ups.

These programs are sprouting up in communities across the country. There is such a program in an Ashland church. I would recommend it to everyone, for none of us are without hurts, hang-ups, or habits that we need to overcome.

Second Peter 2:19 says: “…a man is a slave of anything that has conquered him.” When we take on the solutions of our hurts, hang-ups or habits ourselves, it’s as if we’re playing God, rather than allowing him to help free us from them. We cannot serve ourselves in this way, and serve God at the same time.

Lord, help us recognize any hurts, habits and hang-ups in our lives that keep us from the peace and freedom that you offer in Jesus Christ. We thank you for your promises to help us recover from our wrong behavior. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(E-mail Mrs. Bair at sallybair@gmail.com if you’re interested in Celebrate Recovery.)

ETERNAL

Holy Week schedules set

Fristad Lutheran Church Good Friday services will be a joint service with the congregation of North Valley Lutheran of Milltown.

Times are 1 and 7 p.m., April 6. These services will be held at North Valley Lutheran on Hwy. G, just outside of Milltown. Easter will be celebrated with a sunrise service at 7 a.m. Easter breakfast will be served from 8 to 9:15 a.m., with another service to follow at 9:30 a.m.

Are we living in the last days?

sage was to go from Jerusalem to all the nations of the world, a message of salvation: “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21). To the Jews it was almost unbelievable that the Gospel could be for the whole world, Yes, we are living in the “last days.” It should not including Gentiles, but Peter promised such: “For the be a cause for alarm, however, because we have promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that been living in the last days for almost two thousand are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” years! The “last days” refer to the last great period of (Acts 2:39). He called all present to respond: “Repent, history, the Christian Age. and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus There have been three great dispensations or ages Christ for the remission of sins” (2:38). of God dealing with mankind. The first was the PaLater Peter wrote that Christ “was manifest in these triarchal Age, when God dealt directly with the last times” (1 Peter 1:20). Time may be drawing to an THE heads of families (from Adam to Moses). This peend. Today may be the last day. Or, the Lord may riod ended with the beginning of the Mosaic Age, delay His coming for a thousand years so more can when God gave the Law of Moses to Israel. The Mo“come to repentance” (1 Pet. 3:9). Look for no special saic Age (the age under which Jesus lived) ended “last days” signs in present events. Do not listen to with the advent of the Christian Age, ushered in by false teachers who set dates for the second coming or the preaching of the Gospel and the establishment the end of the world. Do not be lulled into thinking of the first century church. you have plenty of time to make your life right with God, either.

On the day of Pentecost following the resurrection of Christ, We should prepare to meet Christ—the angel may be getting Peter rose up with the rest of the apostles to speak and said, his trumpet ready (1 Thes. 4:13-18). Now is the time to obey concerning the things that were happening, “This is that which Christ (2 Cor. 6:2). (Article adapted from Bob Prichard) was spoken by the prophet Joel; and it shall come to pass in the last If readers have questions or simply wish to know more about days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your the Church of Christ, we invite you to call 715-866-7157 or stop sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Office visions, and your old men shall dream dreams” (Acts 2:16-17). Peter hours are Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m.-noon. Sunday Bible said that the events of that day were the fulfillment of Joel’s class begins at 9:30 a.m., Worship is at 10:30 a.m. We also meet prophecy concerning what would happen “in these last days.” Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m.

The Spirit was poured out on “all flesh,” as the Gospel mes-

Garret Derouin

PREACHER’S

PEN

OBITUARIES Fr. Albert J. Shanley

Fr. Albert J. Shanley M.S. died Sunday, March 18, at the St. Croix Good Samaritan Center in St. Croix Falls.

He was 93 years old.

Fr. Shanley was born Jan. 2, 1914, in New Haven, Conn., to Albert J. and Agnes Shanley. He was ordained into the priesthood Dec. 17, 1938, at the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome. He served as a chaplain for the U.S. Army during WWII. He served as parish priest of St. Joseph and St. Francis Xavior parishes for 40 years. He enjoyed reading, was a master gardener

and an artist.

Fr. Shanley was preceded in death by his parents, brother Martin and a cousin, Patty Covert. He is survived by cousins, many friends and parisoners.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, March 21, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Taylors Falls. Interment was in St. Francis Xavior Cemetery in Franconia Township with arrangements by Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola.

Large-scale Christian concert coming to Grantsburg GRANTSBURG – By the Tree, The Turning and Rush of Fools have added the Grantsburg Community Center to their World on Fire tour schedule. The concert will take place on Monday, April 2, at 7 p.m. at the Grantsburg Community Center. Tickets are only $5 in advance or $8 at the door. Group discounts are also available. Children under 5 receive free admittance.

Tickets are available by calling 715-463-5524, by visit-

ing www.igniteconcert.com or you can pick them up at the Espresso Cabin in Grantsburg.

This is an event for the whole family and is sponsored by Refuel Ministries. A special preshow opportunity is available for youth and worship leaders in the area for no additional charge. For more information about this special event, please call Bob at 715-4635524. – submitted

Pilgrim Lutheran Youth Group active

Milltown Lutheran Church Milltown Lutheran Church will celebrate Holy Week with the following services: Palm Sunday, April 1, services 9 a.m., prayer and praise with Holy Communion; 10:40 a.m., worship with Holy Communion; Thursday, April 5, Maundy Thursday, 7 p.m. service; Friday, April 6, Good Friday, 4 p.m. service and 7 p.m. Tenebrae service; Sunday, April 8, Easter, 6:30 a.m., sunrise service followed

by Easter brunch and 10 a.m. Easter worship.

First Evan. Lutheran Church First Evan. Lutheran Church will celebrate Holy Week with the following services: Palm Sunday, April 1, services at 9 a.m.; Thursday, April 5, Maundy Thursday, 7 p.m.; Easter Sunday, April 8, sunrise at the Lookout, 6 a.m.; traditional worship, 8:30 a.m. and contemporary worship, 10:30 a.m.

Osceola United Methodist Church Osceola United Methodist Church will celebrate the power of the cross and a risen Lord with the following Holy Week worship schedule: Maundy Thursday, April 5, worship in the setting of the Last Supper at 7 p.m.; Good Friday, April 6, vigil and Tenebrae service at 7 p.m.; Easter Sunday, April 8, sunrise service at 7 a.m., breakfast at 8 a.m., Easter egg hunt at 8:30 a.m. coffee fellowshp at 9 a.m. and worship with communion at 10 a.m.

St. Joseph Church and Lady of the Lakes St. Joseph Church and Lady of the Lakes Catholic churches will celebrate Holy Weekwith the following services: Thursday, April 5, Our Lady of the Lakes, 7 p.m.

Mass with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament to follow until 10 p.m. and St. Joseph’s 8-10 p.m., Mass with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; Friday, April 6, Our Lady of the Lakes, noon service and St. Joseph’s, 3 p.m. service and 7 p.m. devotions; Saturday, April 7, St. Joseph’s, 8:30 p.m. Easter Vigil Mass; Sunday, April 8, Our Lady of the Lakes 8:30 a.m. Easter Mass and St. Joseph’s 10:30 a.m., Easter Mass. – submitted

Pilgrim Lutheran Chuch youth group. Shown back row (L to R): Terri Stoner, Alex Miller and Jeremy Stoner. Front row (L to R): Julie Martin, Holly Stoner, Ashley Kurkowski (who is holding Pastor Catherine’s poodle, Tabbitha) and Joe Engelhart. – Photo submitted FREDERIC - On Sunday the youth group of Pilgrim Lutheran Church gathered for dinner and a movie.

Make-your-own tacos was the menu which was enjoyed by everyone. The movie “Facing the Giants” was a heartwarming story of a downtrodden Christian high school football coach who turned to God when everything seemed to be going against him. In trusting God to do the impossible, Coach Grant Taylor and his Shiloh Christian Eagles soon discovered how faith plays out on the field…and off!

On Sunday, March 25, the students will meet at the church at 6 p.m. and car pool to McKenzie Lanes in Centuria to go bowling! They will bowl from 6:30 to

7:30 p.m. and then have pizza. The cost per person is $5.50. If this is something you think you would be interested in doing with the group, please call the church and let them know, 327-8012.

Everyone is invited to join Pilgrim Lutheran Church for Sunday morning worship services at 8 or 10 a.m.

Wednesday night Lenten Services are at 6:30 and at 5:30 homemade soup and sandwiches are served. For more information about up-and-coming events at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, go to the Web site www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.com or call the church office. submitted

MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

CHURCH NEWS Good teachers creat classrooms free of ridicule Q: You once wrote about an overweight fourthgrade girl who was teased by nine aggressive boys as she entered the classroom all while the teacher looked on in silence. What would you have done if you had been the teacher on that day?

DR. DOBSON: Those mocking, joking boys would have had a fight on their hands, I promise you that. Of course, it would have been better if the embarrassment could have been prevented by discussing the feelings of others from the first day of school. But if the conflict occurred as described, with Nancy suddenly being humiliated for everyone to see, I would have thrown the full weight of my authority and respect on her side of the battle. My spontaneous response would have carried this general theme: "Wait just a minute! By what right do any of you boys have to say such mean, unkind things to Nancy?

I want to know which of you is so perfect that the rest of us couldn't make fun of you in some way? I know you all very well. I know about your homes and your school records and some of your personal secrets.

Would you like me to share them with the class, so we can all laugh at you the way you just did at Nancy? I could do it! I could make you want to crawl into a hole and disappear.

"But listen to me! You need not fear. I will never embarrass you in that way. Why not? Because it hurts to be laughed at by your friends. It hurts even more than a stubbed toe or a cut finger or a bee sting.

"I want to ask those of you who were having such a

good time a few minutes ago: Have you ever had a group of students make fun of you in the same way? If you haven't, then brace yourself.

Someday it will happen to you, too.

Eventually you will say something foolish something that will cause everyone to point at you and laugh in your face. And when it happens, I Dr. James want you to remember what hapDobson pened today.

(Then addressing the entire class) "Let's make sure that we learn something important from what took place here this afternoon. First, we will not be mean to each other in this class. We will laugh together when things are funny, but we will not do it by making one person feel bad.

"Second, I will never intentionally embarrass anyone in this class. You can count on that. Each of you is a child of God. You were made with his loving hands, and he has said that we all have equal worth as human beings. This means that Susie is neither better nor worse than Wade or Mary or Brent.

"Sometimes I think maybe you believe a few of you are more important than others. It isn't true. Every one of you is priceless to God, and each of you will live forever in eternity. That's how valuable you are. God loves every boy and girl in this room, and because of that, I love every one of you. He wants us to be kind to other people, and we're going to be practicing that kindness through the rest of this year."

When a strong, loving teacher comes to the aid of

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

the least respected child in her class, as I've described, something dramatic occurs in the emotional climate of the room. Every child seems to utter an audible sigh of relief. The same thought is bouncing around in many little heads: "If Nancy is safe from ridicule even Nancy then I must be safe too."

By defending the least popular child in the room, a teacher is demonstrating (1) that she has no "pets"; (2) that she respects everyone; (3) that she will fight for anyone who is being treated unjustly. Those are three virtues that children value highly, and that contribute to mental health.

And may I suggest to parents: Defend the underdog in your neighborhood. Let it be known that you have the confidence to speak for the outcast. Explain this philosophy to your neighbors, and try to create an emotional harbor for the little children whose ship has been threatened by a storm of rejection. Don't be afraid to exercise leadership on behalf of a youngster who is being mauled. There is no more worthy investment of your time and energy.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, P.O. Box 444, Colorado Springs, CO. 80903; or www.family.org. Questions and answers are excerpted from "The Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide" and "Bringing Up Boys," both published by Tyndale House.

Brought to you by:

Zion Lutheran Church Bone Lake

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

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MARCH 21, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Austin Ennis has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in third grade and the son of Matt and Jaime Ennis. Austin is a hard worker and always does his best work. He likes to play basketball and is a wonderful friend. Austin is very responsible and a great role model. Austin is the best big brother to his two younger siblings.

Sage Karl has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Perry and Kessea Karl. Sage is a good student who is always willing to please; gets along with others and has a cooperative and pleasant personalty.

She is involved in cross country, track, basketball and softball. Her future plans include college.

Hope Tucker has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. She is in fifth grade and the daughter of Kevin and Roxanne Tucker. Hope was chosen because of her outstanding schoolwork. Her creative ideas really shine through in reading and writing. She has worked hard and really excelled in math this year.

Hope is a wonderful asset to her class. Her favorite subject is writing. She plays volleyball, softball and hockey. She loves gymnastics, biking and camping.

Dawn Harlander has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daugther of Brad and Rebecca Harlander. Dawn is a highachieving student. She has a strong work ethic, is a good school citizen, respectful of others and has a positive influence on others.

She is involved in drama club, NHS, Girl Scouts, FACT and youth group. Dawn enjoys figure skating, piano, reading and guitar.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Aage Rovney has been chosen as Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is the son of Bill and Kim Rovney. Aage is an excellent student. He is always willing to help the other students in his class. He has a great sense of humor and always has his work done. Aage is conscientious, very organized and has learned all of his multiplication facts already. He enjoys being around his family and friends. He likes sports.

Sarah Elert has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Todd Elert.

Sarah is a student who is always prepared for class, has a super attitude, is very friendly, mature and her smile brightens her day.

She is involved in choir, softball, volleyball and basketball. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys snowboarding, listening to music, ice skating, swimming and hanging out with friends.

Bryce Holm has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Barb and Kevin Holm. Bryce is on the honor roll and is an academic letter winner. He brings a great sense of humor and outgoing personality to the classroom.

Bryce is involved in the school play, forensics, football, track and youth bowling. His hobbies are fishing, skiing, skating, boating and four-wheeling. He plans to attend UW-Stout for manufacturing engineering.

Adriana Perkins has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in fourth grade and the daughter of Lissa Thell and Shawn Perkins. Adriana’s favorite subjects are math and silent reading, but she likes school, period. At home she enjoys playing with her sister, using the computer and exercising. Adriana does cross stitch and crocheting, which she has been doing for a number of years, and enjoys riding her bike.

SIREN

Leigha Priske-Olson has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is a good helper in class.

Leigha enjoys school. Her favorite class is gym. She likes to play with her friends during recess. Leigha also likes to read.

Her favorite sport is baseball, which she likes to play with her grandpa.

Abigail Mitchell has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Tara and Greg Mitchell and John and Rose Howe. Abigail does her very best and is a tremendous role model for other students. She always has a smile on her face.

Abby is involved in forensics, band, choir, soccer, track, basketball, softball and volleyball. She enjoys reading, writing, playing outdoors and talking on the computer. The most wonderful thing in life to Abby is ”...that one always has family.”

Paul Nelson has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Laurel and Annette Nelson. Paul is a responsible student who gets his work done. He works at Burnett Dairy Co-op and is T.A. to Mr. Berg. Paul enjoys fishing, hunting, reading and working. His future plans are to attend UW-River Falls, majoring in animal science or conservation.

Cody Dudash has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of David and Teresa Dudash. Cody’s favorite pastime is skiing. His favorite subject is science because he enjoys doing experiments. Cody always goes out of his way to help out around the room and tidy things up. Cody has a dog and bird as pets.

Chad Koonce was chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week. He is a senior. Chad is being recognized by the staff for the work ethics he practices in achieving his academic goals.

Chad enjoys hanging out with friends, listening to music and biking.

WEBSTER

Brynn McBroom has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Brian and Carol McBroom. Brynn excells in painting hands, faces and eyes. Her attention to detail and composition draws the viewer into her art.

Recently, one of Brynn’s paintings was chosen by a jury of professional artists to be part of the Northwest Regional Youth Month Art Show in the Capitol Rotunda in Madison.

Congratulations students!

Emily Sabatka has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of John and Jennifer Sabatka. Emily is kind and very helpful to her peers.

She goes out of her way to please.

Emily loves to read in her spare time. She is involved in Girl Scouts, soccer and a traveling music group that performs at local churches. She also loves to be mom’s helper at the coffee shop.

Brenna Nutt has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She cares a lot about her work and gets along well with her peers. She is a kind and cooperative student. Brenna does exceptional work in reading, language and science. Her favorite activities are band, volleyball and basketball.

She also likes to do projects and read. Brenna’s family is very important to her. She enjoys going to basketball games, playing board games and going to the lake.

Andrea Yezek has been chosen Webster High School student of the week. She is the daughter of Julie and Steve Yezek. She is an excellent student who works hard and excels in her classes. She is friendly, polite, respectful and honest. She is involved in the business club, pep band and AODA. Her hobbies include horseback riding, spending time with family and outdoor activities. She plans to attend college or a tech school.

UNITY

Nicole Bystrom has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in fifth grade and the daughter of James and Rachel Bystrom. Nikki is a hardworking student who is always attentive in class. Her favorite subjects are science and math. Nikki is always polite and kind and displays excellent manners.

Elaine Butala has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Joe and Becky Butala. Elaine is a conscientious student with a positive attitude. She has a respectful behavior, and takes pride in doing well. She works hard every day and cares about her education.

Dane Olson has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Dan and Trish Olson of Milltown. Dane was selected for outstanding participation in FFA and Agriculture programs. He has made a tremendous impact on the Ag program through participation and member recruitment. He enjoys hunting, fishing and the outdoors.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- MARCH 21, 2007

MARCH

THURS. FRI./22 & 23 Siren

• “Anchors Aweigh,” 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. Tickets available at the door.

Coming events

Coming event items are published as a public service. Items must be submitted by 10 a.m. on Mondays to be assured of publication in that week’s issue.

APRIL

THURS. -SAT./2224 St. Croix Falls

MONDAY/2

• “Bye Bye Birdie” production by the high school, at Festival Theatre. Thursday & Friday at 7 p.m. Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. Call 715-483-9823, ext. 232 for more info.

Frederic

• Spades played, 1:30 p.m. at the senior center.

THURSDAY/22 Frederic

• Indianhead Gem & Mineral Society meets, at the senior citizens center, social time at 7 p.m. with meeting at 7:30 p.m.

Mike Carlson will display his collection.

Siren

TUESDAY/3

• 500 Card Night, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

Clam Falls

• “Living with Grief: Before and After the Death,” 12:30-3 p.m. at Burnett County Government Center, Room 165. Contact Marilyn Kooiker at 715-349-2151 for more info.

• Coffee hour, 9 a.m. at the Lutheran church. Everyone welcome.

WEDNESDAY/4 Frederic

FRIDAY/23 Frederic

• Blood pressure screening at Bremer Bank, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sponsored by Bremer Bank.

Rice Lake

SATURDAY/7

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

Grantsburg

• Financial Planning for farm families, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at WITC. For info and to register call 800-897-8134.

• 23rd-annual Spring Craft and Gift Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Legion Hall. Call 715463-2603 for more info.

SATURDAY/24

Siren A recent sunrise over Doug and Karen Vanderhoof’s farm in Dewey Township. In addition to milking cows, the Vanderhoofs run Glacier Trail Rides, a riding stable • Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 1 p.m. at the Burnett County Moose Lodge. Treat bags for all • Spring Expo, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., at the com- with miles of trails available for horseback riding. — Photo by Larry Samson area children age 2-10.

Barron

munity center.

Clayton

St. Croix Falls

• Spring Expo & Art Fair, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at LaPlace/Admiral Inn.

MONDAY/26

Frederic

• Slow-pitch softball league meeting, 7 p.m., at the fire hall.

Milltown

• Spades played, 1:30 p.m. at the senior center.

• Noon Potluck Lunch, at the senior center.

Bingo, cards, pool or fellowship begins at 1:30 p.m.

• The Schimpps in Concert, 7 p.m. at North Valley Lutheran Church. Coffee after.

Osceloa

• Community Homestead’s Spring Craft Fair & Bake Sale, 10 a.m-4 p.m., Phone 715-2943038, www.communityhomestead.org.

St. Croix Falls

Centuria Frederic

TUESDAY/27 Luck

• Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 5-6:30 p.m. at the senior center. Contact Ellen Jepsen, 715472-2877 or use 715-294-3750 as contact for other areas.

Siren

• 2007 Home & Business Expo, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at the high school. Call 715-483-3580 for more info.

• Burnett County Republican Party meets, 7 p.m. at the Government Center, Room 162.

• School library fundraiser, 6 p.m. at the high school. Dinner, raffle and silent auction. Call 715-349-2277 for more info.

• Food & Friends Community Dinner, 5-6 p.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic church.

Siren

SUNDAY/25 Frederic

• Benefit for Deb Fredericks, noon- 3 p.m. above the clinic in the old nursing home.

McKinley

• Benefit for JoAnn Sellent, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Chruch.

Milltown

• The Schimpps in Concert, 10:30 a.m. at North Valley Lutheran Church. Coffee after.

St. Croix Falls

• Woodbury Chorus & Orchestra concert, 4 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church. A community supper will follow. Call 715-646-2220 or 715-483-1194 for more info.

Siren

• “Anchors Aweigh,” 2 a.m. at the high school auditorium. Tickets available at the door.

Webster

WEDNESDAY/28

FRI.-SUN./30-APRIL 1 Dresser

• Gun Show at Trollhaugen Convention Center. Friday 5 - 9 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 715-483-9190.

Frederic

• “The Fighting Littles,” presented by the high school drama club, at the Birch Street Elementary School. Friday & Saturday 7 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m.

Rice Lake

• 15th-annual Harley-Davison Bike Show, at Cedar Mall. Call 715-458-4604 or 715-2345400 for more info.

FRIDAY/30 Frederic

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

Frederic

• Pokeno played, 1 p.m. at the senior center.

THURSDAY/29 Cushing

• Blood Drive, 1-7 p.m. at the community center. Call 715-825-3733 and leave message w/name, phone & time.

Frederic

• 500 Card Night, 6:30 p.m. at the senior center.

FRI. & SAT./30 & 31 Centuria

• Spring Trade Show and Quality Craft Fair, Friday 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring Quality crafters and local/regional vendors. Questions call 715-646-2091.

Luck

• “Bye Bye Birdie” production by the high school, at Festival Theatre. Friday at 7 p.m.

Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. Call 715-483-9823, ext. 232 for more info.

SATURDAY/31 Cushing

• 6th-annual Spring Bash, fundraiser for the community center. Dinner at 4-8 p.m., live auction 7 p.m., at the old Cushing School. Call 715488-2467 for more info.

Frederic

• Noon Potluck Lunch, at the senior center.

Bingo, cards, pool or fellowship begins at 1:30 p.m.

Luck

• Polk-Burnett Farmers Union meeting, 11 a.m. at Oakwood Inn. Everyone welcome.

Siren

• 18th-annual Rainbow of Fun Carnival, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the school. Sponsored by Moms for Kids.

• “The Show” 7:30 p.m.at Luck High School.

Curves collects 1,446 pounds for food drive Everyone at Webster Curves took a moment to pose with Janet Swenson, owner/manager, (left) amongst the many bags of groceries collected for the food drive that ended last Friday, March 16. The food drive started on March 1 and collected a total of 1,446 pounds of nonperishable food items for the food shelf, surpassing the goal of 1,400 pounds.

Webster Curves has been a busy place with the Community Wellness Challenge going until April 6. – Photos by Sherill Summer

MON. - TUES./9 & 10 Webster

• AARP 55 Alive classes, at the senior center.

Contact Jane Wardean 715-866-8602 or Com. Ed. office 715-349-7070 to reserve.

THURSDAY/12 Alpha

• Cow-calf seminar, 4:30-8 p.m. at the Hennessey Hidden Pond Farm. Call 715-635-3506 or 800-528-1914 for more info.

Grantsburg

• Burnett County Garden Club meets, 7 p.m. at the high school. Presentation by Don Kaddatz on spring blooming wildflowers.

SATURDAY/14 Amery

• Wisconsin Wildlife Federation membership banquet, doors open at 5 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., at North Star Event Center. Call 715294-3854 for more info.

Osceola

• United Methodist Women’s annual Spring Brunch & Program, 10 a.m., at the church.

Call 715-755-2275 or 715-294-3408.

TUESDAY/17 Clam Falls

• Coffee hour, 9 a.m. at the Lutheran church.

Everyone welcome.

SAT. - SUN./21 & 22 Siren

• Expo 2007. Burnett Youth Hockey Association and Mix 105 and Classic Hits 105.7 team up to present the event at the Lodge Center Arena in Siren. Saturday events are from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Fundraiser for the hockey association. Call 715-472-9569 for info.

SATURDAY/21 Osceola

• Healtlhy Heart 5K Run/Walk, registration 7 a.m., race starts 8:30 a.m., beginning at the high school. Call 715-294-5736 for more info.