T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 3 0 , 2 0 0 8 • V O L U M E 7 6 • N O . 1 9 • 2 S E C T I O N S • 8 , 0 0 0 C O P I E S • S E C T I O N A
• High school choir reunion @ Frederic • Bluegrass jam session @ Lewis • “The Christmas Dream” @ Centuria See Coming Events and stories
IN SI DE
Leader INTER-COUNTY
W EEKEN D WA TCH :
Serving Northwest Wisconsin
$1
Judge: Open meetings law violated Judge Eugene Harrington rules in civil case brought by James Drabek; Polk supervisors violated open meetings law while discussing GAM PAGE 3
The local year in review CURRENTS FEATURE
Donations to Salvation Army steady in Polk
C o l d c u r r e nt
Down in Burnett PAGE 3
Two found dead in murder/suicide Kindergarteners visit Crex Currents, pg. 19
Motive unknown PAGE 2
Caucuses set
A citizens guide PAGE 5
Feedback wanted at St. Croix Falls The dance recital Page 23
Tourism committee to set up focus groups PAGE 7
Webster cheerleader will be performing at New Year’s bowl game Ashley Clay to be part of halftime show PAGE 6
What’s up with Leo? Currents page 9
S PO RT S
Looking back at 2008 Inside
The Trade River flows peacefully under banks of ice and snow as it continues to flow as winter settles in. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer
Th e pow er of C hr i st ma s by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG - As my family and many others in Burnett County prepared to celebrate Christmas Eve by sitting down to a hot meal in a warm home with the Christmas tree lights aglow, we were given a jolt when the electricity suddenly went out and we found ourselves in darkness. The phrase “timing is everything” certainly applied as some people’s dinners were cooked while many others were not. Relatives and friends later told me while they did do some lamenting over half-baked biscuits, undercooked casseroles and mushy meatballs. Having to adapt to being without electricity made the evening turn out to be quite fun. One woman said as she and her husband sat by candlelight it brought back memories of their childhood days when
there was no electricity. The couple enjoyed a couple of hours reminiscing about doing all the household and barn chores by lantern and candlelight. She told me when the day came they got their first electric light in the house they thought it was just wonderful. At my house the candles on our table were quickly lit and a flashlight dispatched to locate and get food from the kitchen to the dining room. As we sat down to eat, my brother-inlaw said, “Well, this is different.” And my mother said she couldn’t remember ever having a Christmas Eve candlelight dinner or even the last time she’d eaten
See Power of Christmas, page 4 RIGHT: Candles at church came in handy on Christmas Eve when a power outage struck the Grantsburg area. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer
The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper
PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Leader
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MANAGER Doug Panek dougpanek@centurytel.net EDITOR Gary B. King, Editor gbking@centurytel.net STAFF Nancy Jappe njappe@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Brenda Sommerfeld brendals@centurytel.net Sherill Summer the-leader@centurytel.net Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Carl Heidel cheidel389@centurytel.net Priscilla Bauer cilla@grantsburgtelcom.net Mary Stirrat marystirrat@hotmail.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net
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Kindergarteners at Shell Lake give it their all as they sang “Up On the House Top.” Shown (L to R): Layne Olson, Alexis McCracken, Julia Lyga and Marcus Warren. - Photo by Larry Samson
Duck for the Oyster event noted in Wall Street Journal Chateau St. Croix performance a top event for New Year’s by Regan Kohler ST. CROIX FALLS – Local music favorite Duck for the Oyster will be playing at the Chateau St. Croix on New Year’s Eve, an event that was picked up by The Wall Street Journal in the Dec. 19 edition. Duck for the Oyster is a traditional dance band that has been performing in Washburn County, and the upper Midwest, for a number of years. The musicians – Kevin McMullin, Larry Stelter, Bruce Qualey and Tom
Draughon – play 18th- and 19th-century folk music with stringed instruments, while Karen Kaufman teaches people how to do the traditional dances, and Kathy Brihn calls out the moves. From Irish Ceili to square dancing, Duck for the Oyster has it covered, and has been performing at venues such as the Shell Lake Arts Center locally. Stelter said he received an e-mail from Qualey that the band, along with the Chateau St. Croix Winery & Vineyard, St. Croix Falls, had been mentioned in the Wall Street Journal. Duck for the Oyster will be performing at the Chateau on Wednesday, Dec. 31, beginning at 8 p.m. “I was curious myself as to how they found out,” Stelter said of the national
newspaper’s article. The vineyard was featured in the Wall Street Journal’s Life & Style section, written as part of a wine events article. The Chateau and Duck for the Oyster were on the list of the top-seven things to do for New Year’s Eve, both in America and overseas. The Chateau was featured because of a new wine that recently came out. The New Year’s event is $40, and there will be a complimentary wine tasting before Duck for the Oyster performs. The article suggests wearing Renaissance attire with a mask. To read the entire article, visit the Chateau’s home Web page, www.chateaustcroix.com; the article is linked on the bottom.
Two dead in apparent murder/suicide POLK COUNTY – A 66-year-old woman and her 74-year-old male companion were discovered dead in their rural Luck home, Saturday morning, Dec. 27, the apparent victims of a murder/suicide. A Polk County Sheriff’s press release states that LaVonne Relander died from three gunshot wounds to the head from a .22-caliber rifle and that Rayburn Boyd died from “self-inflicted injuries,” with the weapon in his death not being identified. No information on a possible motive has been released.
The sheriff’s office is confident they have recovered the weapon used to shoot Relander at the couple’s home on East Round Lake Road. The residence and surrounding area were sealed off and Polk County Sheriff’s Department investigators, along with an investigator from the Polk County Medical Examiner’s office conducted a scene investigation. Polk County Sheriff Tim Moore said he could not comment on details of the case but did confirm the couple were longtime residents of the area, having lived together for 15 to 17 years and both had been retired for years.
Relander’s daugher discovered the bodies and called 911 at approximately 10:35 a.m. She had gone to the home after becoming concerned when her phone call to the home was not answered. The bodies were taken to Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office in Ramsey, Minn., for postmortem examination that was conducted Sunday. The deaths remain under investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Department and the Polk County Medical Examiner’s office. – Gary King with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department
Gandy Dancer Rest Stop in Luck is open Roger Steen’s Eagle Scout project, The Gandy Dancer Rest Stop, is now open and ready for visitors. “Everyone was so very generous and willing to help with my project,” said Steen. “It is located right in Luck, on the Gandy Dancer Trail on Hwy. 48, just west of the Luck Fire Hall. The rest stop is available for everyone and will be a great place to take a break. I want to thank everyone that was involved with making this project a reality!” Contributors to the project were: The Polk County Snowmobile Club, Luck Youth Sports Unlimited, Luck Village, Luck Snowmobile Club, Luck Community Club, Luck Lumber, Lowell Johnson and Durex’s products and project contributors: Brian and Verle Hacker, Kevin & Austin Holdt, Rande Giller, John Gehrman, Bruce Hendricks, Dan Valentine, Jim Harder, Bob Kreutzian, Brian and Brandon Holdt, Lindsey Wallin, Gary Ekholm, Alec and Cole Mortel, the Luck Village crew and Ron, Kelly, Avery and Parker Steen. – Special photos
Briefly Reminder: You can sign up for a free three-month subscription to our e-edition. Just e-mail theleader@centurytel.net with the subject line “E-edition drawing.” ••• SIREN - Wondering about the future of 4-H in Burnett County? All 4-H adult and youth leaders, parents and community members concerned about the future of 4-H are welcome to take part in a Vision to Action meeting to be held Saturday, Jan. 10, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Burnett County Government Center. Registration is at 8:30 a.m. with rolls and refreshments. - with information from UWExtension ••• POLK/BURNETT COUNTIES - The public is invited to attend the swearing in of elected officials this coming Monday, Jan. 5, at 9 a.m. at the government centers in both Burnett and Polk counties. The Burnett ceremony takes place in the courtroom of Judge Ken Kutz and the Polk ceremony in the courtroom of Judge Robert Rasmussen. Sworn in will be the district attorney, register of deeds, treasurer and county clerk from each county. In Polk County, a reception will be held immediately following the ceremony in the community room of the justice center. - with submitted information ••• WASHBURN COUNTY - A 57-yearold Sarona woman died Saturday, Dec. 27, when she lost control of her vehicle due to icy roads, and slid into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Linda Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Washburn County Sheriff’s Deptartment. An initial investigation revealed that Anderson was driving south in a 2007 Buick on CTH M just south of CTH B in the town of Madge when she lost control of her vehicle as she was negotiating a curve on the icecovered road. Rebecka Misselt, age 20, of Fall Creek, was northbound on M in a 2000 Jeep Cherokee. According to witnesses and evidence at the scene, Anderson’s vehicle crossed the centerline and was struck in the passenger side by Misselt’s vehicle. Anderson was wearing her seat belt and the passenger side airbag did deploy. Anderson’s dog also died as a result of the collision. Misselt and her passenger, Kelly Jacobson, age 29, of Rice Lake, were transported by ambulance to the Lakeview Medical Center in Rice Lake. Misselt and Jacobson were not wearing their seat belts. - with information from Washburn County Sheriff’s Dept. ••• CORRECTION: The photos of the grader accident in Siren, on page 2 of last week’s Leader, were taken by Nancy Jappe.
Extra patrol cars out on New Year’s Eve POLK COUNTY - Extra patrol cars will be out on New Years Eve as part of the statewide Click It or Ticket enforcement of seat belts and OWI enforcement, reports Sheriff Tim Moore. “I encourage people to use a designated driver or the Safe Ride Program through the Polk County Tavern League,” Moore said. “Our goal is reduce the number of impaired drivers on Polk County highways and the number of alcohol-related crashes and deaths.” - Gary King
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3
Judge: Supervisors violated open meetings law by Gary King POLK COUNTY - Judge Eugene Harrington of Washburn County ruled this week that 23 Polk County supervisors and former supervisors violated the state’s open meetings law. James Drabek, a Centuria building contractor, brought a civil lawsuit in April against the supervisors, concerned that the county finance committee and the county board was conducting too much business leading to the sale of Golden Age Manor in closed session and outside of public view. His civil suit named all five members of the finance committee and the entire county board. Finance committee members and former members Neil Johnson of Star Prairie, Michael Larsen of Amery, Duana Bremer of Amery and Larry Jepsen (former county board chair) of Osceola were found guilty of 13 counts of knowingly violating the open meetings law and Gary Bergstrom of Osceola guilty of 11 counts of the same charge. Unknowingly violated Judge Harrington found the following supervisors and former supervisors guilty of one count of unknowingly violating the open meetings law: Bryan Beseler of Dresser (current county board chair), Ken Olson of Luck, Patricia Schmidt of Luck, Kay Friberg of Frederic, Marvin Casperson of St. Croix Falls, Stefan Milberg of Milltown, Keith Rediske of St. Croix Falls, William Hughes of St. Croix Falls, Jay Luke of Amery, Diane Stoneking of Amery, Kim O’Connell of Osceola, Gerald Newville of Clayton, Carl Holmgren of Balsam Lake, Rodney Littlefield of Turtle Lake
and Arthur Gamache of Amery. Charges against Bob Blake, Jeff Peterson and Russ Arcand were dropped due to the fact Drabek’s serving of summons to those three did not meet the legal specifications of proper serving of a summons. Defense rationale The defendants, all represented by a law firm from Madison, argued that the issue of the potential sale of Golden Age Manor was “extremely contentious” and the finance committee members were concerned from the outset that if they should release the name of any potential buyers or listed details of a supervisor tour of facilities owned by potential buyers, it could be harmful to the potential buyer and to completion of a deal. Also noted was potential harassment from members of a group formed to prevent the sale of GAM. The defense said that from August of 2007 to January of 2008, members of that group picketed board members, posted information on Web blogs and transported elderly resients of GAM to county board finance committee meetings and meetings of the GAM governing board. Some residents were in wheelchairs and on carts resembling hospital beds. “For those reasons the county decided the identity of potential buyers of GAM needed to be kept confidential,” the defense noted. Judge’s comments Judge Harrington, in his ruling, stated: “The county's rationale does not comport with the narrow exemption of state
statutes 19.85. Polk County's desire is not consistent for requirement for a closed meeting. Merely because a government decision is contentious does not warrant a closed meeting. Contentius decisions of a public body ought to have more public discourse, not less.” Harrington said the people impacted by the county board’s decisions patients, employees, taxpayers - have a right to express their view openly and likewise policymakers have an obligation to decide openly and publicly, but also can express its collective displeasure at the polls. “These are the goals of the open meetings law,” Harrington stated. “Polk County did not accommodate these goals.” None of the defendants were present to hear Harrington’s ruling, according to Drabek. Drabek said he put in hundreds of hours of his own time preparing the case. “I take openness in government seriously,” he told the Leader. ”When I signed up for the military, I took an oath to support and defend the constitution. I take that oath seriously. There is a veteran living in Golden Age Manor who won a Purple Heart defending our country. I am doing this for him. I am doing this to defend my rights, your rights, our rights.” Harrington stated the matter will be scheduled for futher proceeding and possible rulings regarding forfeitures. Supervisors found guilty could be fined anywhere from $25 to $300 per violation, according to state law.
Donations to Salvation Army steady in Polk by Gary King POLK COUNTY - Although it didn’t reach its fundraising goal, the Polk County chapter of the Salvation Army didn’t realize a decrease in donations like many chapters across the nation, according to Duana Bremer, director of the organization’s Serenity House at Balsam Lake. The Salvation Army uses donations to provide food, shelter, and opportunity for those in need. “For us, we got a couple of bigger checks toward the end, and that pushed us over,” Bremer said. Last year between $72,000 and $73,000 was raised, and this year produced the same amount, with some donations yet to be counted. It will likely fall short of this year’s goal of $75,000, noted Bremer. With economic times the most challenging they’ve been for decades, many charitable groups have reported
lower fundraising numbers than in the past. That includes Salvation Army chapters in other parts of northwestern Wisconsin. The chapter in Superior is behind their seasonal fundraising goal by $35,000 and chapters in Douglas and Sawyer counties are below last year’s mark. Numbers for Burnett County may be down from last year (see story below). Bremer said the need for the services the Salvation Army provides is growing - making their budget tighter. The requests for rent and utility assistance are up; there is more unemployment and it’s harder to find jobs, she says. At Serenity House, the halfway home created from Polk County’s old jail, there are 17 residents, and each has been trying to find a job, Bremer notes. “They really have been trying,” she said, “but only two have been successful so far.”
Renovation of the jail to create Serenity House cost $750,000, paid for with state grants, private donations and individual donations, including the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, which is at its peak in the Christmas season. Residents at the home are allowed to stay for a maximum of 180 days - and must be working or looking for work. Those able to pay are charged a monthly stipend of $150. The Salvation Army helps families by providing food and clothing in hard times, such as the period after fires and natural disasters. To do that they rely on the generosity of those willing to donate. “We’re going to be OK,” Bremer said of the coming year, noting they’ll have at least as much as last year to spend on the needy.” - Mary Stirrat contributed to this story
Donations may be down in Burnett County by Sherill summer BURNETT COUNTY – The final figures for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive in Burnett County have not been calculated yet. The drive, that includes money collected in the red kettles and in direct donations sent directly to the Burnett County Salvation Army, ran from the first weekend of deer hunting through Dec. 24, and had a goal of $29,000. This will represents about half of the funds raised through the year. Chuck Peterson is guessing that Burnett County will fall short by about $1,500. Even though the county might fall short, Peterson is still calling the effort fantastic. “People are hurting, but they gave, gave and gave. Every time they passed a kettle they put money in.” Peterson said that giving nationally is down this season, but he has not heard how the district that includes
Wisconsin did this year. The goal for Burnett County was higher this past campaign, even if the economy took a downturn, because the money used for the voucher program ran out after eight months in the previous fiscal year. The money raised in Burnett County must also support the Faith House in Siren, the family emergency housing that a family can use in times of need, to put their lives back in order. Peterson says that if the final numbers are short, it is probable the voucher program will be cut back. Already the county has cut back the amount a family unit can receive in a 12-month period from $150 to $100. Last year a total of 185 vouchers were given to Burnett County families before the money ran out, helping with everything from basic necessities such as food and rent to seasonal or emergency needs such as after a fire or to purchase Christmas presents.
One reason Peterson is not adding the figures up yet is that he is hoping the banks are still processing a large check, but even if he is being overly optimistic, it is not too late to support the campaign. For information on how to give, contact Chuck Peterson at 715463-5207.
Support group starts BURNETT/POLK COUNTIES Beginning in January, the Community Referral Agency will host a weekly support group for adult survivors of sexual abuse/assault. Those interested in attending area asked to call CRA at 800-261-7233 or email amanda@crashelter.org for the location and time, or for more information. - with information from CRA
PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Students warned not to get too personal on personal pages STATEWIDE -As the number of college students using MySpace and Facebook social networking sites grows, so do concerns about what they’re posting. Some companies see an opportunity in helping them avoid embarrassing themselves and even hurting their future. Look at almost any student’s Facebook or MySpace page, and you may see photos of them at keggers, getting fresh with a date, or making rude or obscene gestures at the camera. For many users, social networking pages are a way to project their personality –
and attitude – out to the online community. But Kevin Long, CEO of Indianabased MVP Sports Media Training, says this can come back to haunt them. “Employers and grad schools are now taking a look at Facebook and MySpace pages, to determine what sort of character the people that are applying may have outside of the office,” explains Long. “And if they see a picture of an athlete or anyone drinking or engaged in some sort of activity with their girlfriend or boyfriend, it may cast a bit of a different light on the person than they necessarily want to show.”
The wall
A Leader reader recently e-mailed us photos of the construction of the United States-Mexcio barrier wall, a project designed to prevent illegal movement across the U.S.-Mexico border. The barrier is meant to taper transportation of illegal drugs and illegal immigration. Construction of the 18-foot tall wall along the border was approved by the government with implementation by the Department of Homeland Security. The project has proved controversial for environmental, economic and other reasons, including some involving civil rights. - Special photo
“Good samaritan” gets OWI ticket LEWIS - A 24-year-old Frederic man who said he was just trying to be a good samaritan, was issued a ticket for OWIfirst offense, Dec. 26. Joseph Allen Kelley was driving a vehicle, attempting to pull another vehicle out of a ditch on Hwy. 35 near Main Street in Lewis at approximately 2:20 a.m. when an officer arrived in response to a call of a vehicle in the ditch. Kelley told the responding officer that he had just come from the bar but was staying at a nearby residence, due to the fact he had been drinking. He said he drove the short distance to the scene of the accident to help the driver of the stuck vehicle. The officer noticed Kelley was unsteady on his feet and asked him to perform sobriety tests, including a Breathalyzer test, which registered .108. Kelly was transported to the Polk County Jail, his demeanor noted as “cooperative.” Other OWI arrests this past week include: • Brian A. Majorowicz, 21, Frederic, arrested Dec. 26 for OWI, obstructing an officer and a warrant for disorderly conduct. Majorowicz was arrested after his vehicle went into a ditch and an officer responded to the scene. Majorowicz allegedly told the officer that he had not been driving the vehicle and that the driver had ran down a nearby snowmobile trail. The officer went over to the trail but saw no footprints. A blood alcohol test taken at St. Croix Regional Medical Center registered .14. • Martin R. Hoglund, no age given, Amery, was arrested Dec. 28 for OWI. A Breathalyzer test registered .175. • Ronald J. Northquest, 56, St. Croix Falls, arrested Dec. 28 for OWI. A blood alcohol test registered .23. • Orin Keller, 26, Hudson, arrested Dec. 24 for OWI. A blood alcohol test
registered at .116. • Joanne M. Klink, 28, Grantsburg, arrested Dec. 26 for OWI and no valid driver’s license. A Breathalyzer test registered at .22. • Michael S. Schreiner, 23, Osceola, arrested Dec. 25 for operating after revocation, OWI related. • Lynn L. Windsor, 59, Amery, arrested Dec. 22 for operating after revocation. • John Michael Evans, 20, Balsam Lake, arrested Dec. 24 for domestic disorderly conduct. – with info from Polk County Sheriff’s Dept.
Long adds this can also embarrass the school. His company provides a 24/7 monitoring service called YouDiligence that universities can subscribe to, to watch the online postings of their athletes. He says they have nearly 40 clients, from small private colleges to Big Ten universities. Justin Doherty of the UW-Madison’s athletic department says they could potentially use such a service. He says right now, they just talk to all the UW teams about online postings. “I’ll tell the student athletes, if you wouldn’t want your mom or your
grandma to see it or read it, then you probably shouldn’t put it up there,” says Doherty. “Everything’s very public and the Internet’s made the world pretty small in that sense.” While YouDiligence software can pick up objectionable words, it can’t detect pictures that might be troublesome. Long says they then review any captions or comments on those photos for lewd or offensive material. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull)
Power of Christmas/from page 1 by candlelight. We were quickly reminded about how much we take electricity for granted when my sister got up to warm something in the microwave. Our dinner was different but indeed one of the most memorable. We concentrated more on each other than on all the food, which, like gifts and decorations, oftentimes takes on more importance than it should at Christmas. We took time to reflect on our time together, which had special meaning for our family this Christmas since my brother-in-law has a terminal illness and this might very well be his last Christmas with us. We took time to be thankful, too, for all we have. While the house grew a bit chilly we were safe in our home with plenty of food and plenty of love. We thought of so many others who were not so fortunate. A friend of mine attending the 5 p.m. Mass at Grantsburg’s Catholic Church described having no electricity as creating a simply beautiful unplanned candlelit service. She told of how the lights went out just as Mass was to begin and how Father Dennis Mullen directed those with flashlights in their cars to retrieve them. Large candles were
Silly Supper is Jan. 10 TOWN OF BONE LAKE - The youth at Bone Lake Lutheran Church of rural Luck are hosting a Silly Supper on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 5 p.m. to raise funds for the 2009 mission trip. Everyone is welcome to join them for fun and surprises. Due to limited seating, please call now to make a reservation at 715-472-2535. - with submitted information
brought out from the church inventory, lit and displayed around the altar and Mass began. The choir, without use of the electric organ, sang a cappella beautifully. After dinner we, too, headed to my traditional candlelight church’s Christmas Eve service. The electricity came back on as we arrived, and after the lights blinked a couple more times the electricity was restored. And as we sang “Silent Night” in the glow of candlelight, we were reminded how the power of this season had once again shone a light through the darkness.
Outage affected 7,000 GRANTSBURG Northwestern Wisconsin Electric Company President Mark Dahlberg said approximately 7,000 people in Grantsburg area were affected by a Christmas Eve power outage. The outage, which happened at 5:05 p.m. just as people were sitting down to Christmas Eve dinners or were attending church services, was the result of an internal fault in a 5,000 KVA transformer at the company’s Grantsburg substation. “The fault was not readily seen making it difficult to find,” said Dahlberg. Restoring power to customers in different areas of the outage varied as loads were switched to transformers at other substations. Dahlberg said power was back on in the Alpha area in approximately 30 minutes while Grantsburg Village residents were out of electricity for almost two hours. Priscilla Bauer
Frozen in time
An old farm wagon stands frozen in time in this winter scene. — Photo by Larry Samson
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5
P O L K
C O U N T Y
H E A D L I N E S
Towns hold nominating caucuses in January
Few voters take part in candidate selection process
by Gregg Westigard POLK/BURNETT - Local residents get a chance to gather with their neighbors in January and decide who will be on the April ballot for positions on the town boards. Nominating caucuses are a grassroots process where residents decide who will make the decisions on their town boards, the basic level of local government. Very few people show up for these meetings.
The common message heard during calls to determine the caucus dates was that there is little involvement and little interest in serving on town boards. Incumbents sometimes run for new terms because no one else is willing to serve. Every town in the two-county area, except Osceola, which uses nominating papers, will hold a caucus between Jan. 6 and Jan. 27. Many of the caucuses are held on Saturdays to encourage attendance. Up for election are all town chairs and two supervisors (the towns of Alden, Clayton and St. Croix Falls have five-members boards with two supervisors elected each year). In cases
where the clerk and treasurer are not appointed, those offices are also up in April. Here are the dates for the caucuses. Call the town clerk for the time and location of the caucus. Polk County Alden Jan. 8, Apple River Jan. 19, Balsam Lake Jan. 20, Beaver Jan. 27, Black Brook Jan. 15, Bone Lake Jan. 27, Clam Falls Jan. 14, Clayton Jan. 6, Clear Lake Jan. 12, Eureka Jan. 8, Farmington Jan. 6, Garfield Jan. 10, Georgetown Jan. 24, Johnstown Jan. 13, Laketown Jan. 20, Lincoln Jan. 8, Lorain Jan. 15 , Luck Jan. 13, McKinley Jan. 6, Milltown Jan. 12,
Osceola uses nominating papers, St. Croix Falls Jan. 27, Sterling Jan. 19 and West Sweden Jan. 20. Burnett County Anderson Jan. 17, Blaine Jan. 13, Daniels Jan. 13, Dewey Jan. 10, Grantsburg Jan. 12, Jackson Jan. 12, LaFollette Jan. 17, Lincoln Jan. 17, Meenon Jan. 12, Oakland Jan. 15, Roosevelt Jan. 13, Rusk Jan. 15, Sand Lake Jan. 17, Scott Jan. 10, Siren Jan. 8, Swiss Jan. 15 , Trade Lake Jan. 24, Union Jan. 21, Webb Lake Jan. 12, West Marshland Jan. 8 and Wood River Jan. 10.
Most villages hold caucuses in January
All village presidents elected next April
by Gregg Westigard BURNETT/POLK – All village council presidents and half of the members of the village boards will be elected next April. In most of the area villages, the candidates for those positions will be chosen in caucuses held in January. All village residents of voting age can attend these caucuses and take part in the nomination process. Historically, few people get involved. Villages nominating caucuses are usually held on the same date as the month-
Residents to decide who will be on April ballot by Gregg Westigard BURNETT AND POLK COUNTIES Residents in most villages and towns will soon get to decide who will run for their boards in the April election. Candidates for half of the six trustee seats on each village counsel and for village president will be nominated by caucuses during January. In addition, the towns will fill their elected positions. [See above stories for the caucus date for the villages and towns.] Caucuses are grassroots democracy. Every voter living in a village or town can take part in the caucus but many
ly village board meeting. Most of the caucuses are held in the evening, with Siren as the exception. A few villages, Clear Lake, Dresser, Osceola and Turtle Lake, plus the area cities, nominate candidates for the April election using nomination papers. That process is going on now with the closing date of Tuesday, Jan. 6, the last date for submitting the nomination forms. Here are the dates for the area village nominating caucuses and the names of the incumbents whose seats are up in April. Call the village office for the times and locations of the caucuses.
Polk County Balsam Lake – Jan. 20 – President Guy Williams, trustees Mike Volz, David Evans and Eugene D’Agostino. Centuria – Jan. 12 – President Cheryl Lehman, trustees Michael Koshatka, Wayne Bakke and Dave Markert. Clayton – Jan. 13 – vacant village president position, trustees Marlin Klatt, Jennifer Bergmann-Mortel and Dennis Heiken. Frederic – Jan. 27 – President Philip Knuf, trustees Maria Ammend, John Boyer and William Johnson IV. Luck – Jan. 7 – President Richard Callister, trustees Jack Holdt, Marilyn Berg and Steven Nielsen.
Milltown – Jan. 12 – President Louise Ann White, trustees Paul Brooks Jr., Benjamin Wheeler and Sam Owen Sr. Burnett County Grantsburg – Jan. 12 – President Mark Dahlberg, trustees Roger Panek, Tim Tessman and Glenn Rolloff. Siren – Jan. 8 – President Janet Hunter, trustees Dave Alden, Josh Henry and Joan O’Fallon. Webster – Jan. 14 – President Jeffrey Roberts, trustees William Rock, Kelly Gunderson and Timothy Maloney.
A citizen’s guide to caucuses caucuses have a low turnout. In some cases, less than a full slate of candidates is nominated. Caucuses must be held between the first and last Tuesday in January. In 2009, caucuses may be held from Tuesday, Jan. 6, through Jan. 27. Citizens gather at a designated time, choose a chairperson for the meeting and nominate persons to be placed on the April ballot. Villages have six trustees who serve a two-year term, so half the trustees are elected each year. The term of village presidents are also up this April. Towns elect a town chair and two supervisors, each of whom serve twoyear terms. An exception is found in Alden, Clayton and St. Croix Falls. These towns each have four supervisors and elect two each year. Many towns also elect the town clerk and treasurer,
although these offices are sometimes being changed to appointed positions. Nominations take place in two ways. A common method is to use paper ballots to place a name in nomination. An alternate method is spoken nominations. Nominees present can remove their names from consideration. A person does not need to be present to be nominated. If the nomination process produces the number of candidates allowed for the ballot, for example six names for three trustee seats, a motion can be made to accept the nomination list as the final list. When more than the maximum number of candidates are nominated, a vote is held to narrow the list to the allowed number. Two candidates can be selected for each position. In villages, three seats are open, so
six candidates can be nominated by the caucus. If more than six persons are nominated, a ballot is taken. Each person present votes for three nominees, and the six persons with the most votes win a place on the April 7 spring election ballot. Persons do not need to be present to be nominated, but all nominees must accept the nomination within five days of notification of the caucus results. If a candidate declines the nomination, the ballot spot remains empty. Cities and some villages and towns use nomination papers to select candidates. Candidates in those places have been filling for office in December. That nomination period ended Tuesday, Jan. 6. A list of those nominees will be reported next week.
Milroy receives committee assignments
New representativeelect will take oath of office in both Madison and Superior
MADISON - Speaker-elect Mike Sheridan recently announced the appointment of Rep.-elect Nick Milroy, D-Superior, as vice chair of the Assembly Committee on Fish and Wildlife for the 2008-09 legislative session. Milroy replaces retiring Rep. Frank
Boyle of the 73rd Assembly District, which encompasses Douglas County and northern parts of Burnett and Washburn counties. “As a freshman legislator, I am honored and appreciative of the confidence our new Speaker has placed in me,” stated Milroy. “I look forward to working with my fellow committee members on both sides of the aisle as we look for ways to protect and enhance our outdoors heritage for generations to come.” In addition, Milroy has been appointed to three more Assembly committees: natural resources, forestry and veterans and military affairs. “As a veteran, I made it clear to lead-
ership that serving fellow veterans on the veterans and military affairs committee is a priority for me,” continued the newly elected representative. “I couldn’t be more appreciative to have this opportunity.” Milroy also pointed out that he is pleased with his appointment to both the natural resources and forestry committees. “Given that I was born and raised in one of the most pristine areas of the state, not to mention the county with the largest county forest in Wisconsin, I feel strongly that I have a lot to offer both of these committees.” Milroy will take his oath of office in Madison on Monday, Jan. 5, along with
the other 98 members of the Assembly. However, he will return to Superior for a district oath of office ceremony prior to the city council meeting and State of the City on Tuesday, Jan. 6. The ceremony is slated to begin at 4:30 p.m. at the Rothwell Student Center. “I’m excited to take the oath of office in Madison,” continued Milroy. “But I’m even more excited to return to Superior and take my oath of office in the district of the people that showed their faith in me to serve as their state representative.” - from the office of Rep.elect Milroy
Balsam Lake Fire and Rescue receives FEMA grant BALSAM LAKE – Balsam Lake Fire and Rescue Department has received a $96,995 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency: The
grant, through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program, will award approximately $500 million throughout the nation this year and $649,988 in Wisconsin. Nine departments in
Wisconsin received awards in Wisconsin total. The grants are intended to enable local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations to pur-
chase or receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs and buy equipment or response vehicles. – with information from FEMA
PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
B U R N E T T
C O U N T Y
H E A D L I N E S
Webster cheerleader performing during New Year’s bowl game
WEBSTER – The Michigan State and Georgia matchup during this year’s Capital One Bowl in Orlando, Fla. Besides featuring the No. 1- and 3ranked running backs, Webster’s own All-American cheerleader, Ashley Clay, will be performing during the halftime
show this New Year’s Day. Only the top 5 percent of some 15,000 cheerleaders earn the chance to perform as an All-American, and the Webster senior earned her All-American cheerleading status this summer at an elite cheer camp held at Webster in July.
Webster cheerleaders, under the direction of coach Shirley Tyson, have been holding fundraising events since then to allow Clay and the rest of the Webster cheerleaders to travel to Orlando for the performance. Along with the halftime performance,
Clay will spend a day at Walt Disney World, celebrate New Year’s Eve at Universal Studios and attend an islandstyle pool party. The game will be played on New Year’s Day at 2 p.m. EST. – Sherill Summer
Crop Decisions 2009 series continues on weed management
SIREN - Without question, weeds need to be managed for profitable crop production. Area growers can get answers to questions about weed management by attending the Wednesday, Jan. 7, session of Crop Decisions 2009, a series of seminars hosted by the University of Wisconsin Extension. The workshop will be held Jan. 7, from 12:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. in Room 162 at the Burnett County Government Center north of Siren. Bill Johnson, extension weed specialist from Purdue, will focus his presenta-
STATEWIDE - Early learning opportunities, the foundation for educational success, are reaching more of the state’s children as 37 school districts added 4year-old kindergarten for the 2008-09 school year. “Every child is born loving to learn,” said state Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster. “Starting our youngest stu-
tion on glyphosate: resistance and performance. Glyphosate is the main herbicide used in soybeans and may soon be true in corn. If that’s the case, why do we still have weeds in our fields? Why does glyphosate work better at some times than others? Are glyphosateresistant weeds really a concern? This session will answer these questions, which will affect the value of glyphosate in controlling weeds for years into the future. Chris Boerboom, UW-Extension weed specialist, will discuss weed manage-
ment risks and expenses. He will review some of the pitfalls that need to be avoided in managing weeds in corn and soybeans. He will also present ideas for reducing the risks of yield loss. The audience will be able to pose questions to Johnson and Boerboom after the presentation. Crop Decisions 2009 is a series of Web-based distance education seminars focused on crop profitability and is hosted by the University of WisconsinExtension. The series continues Friday, Jan. 16, with discussions on cutworm
4K enrollment in Wisconsin jumps
dents right off with a quality 4K program is a first step in closing the achievement gap.” A total of 319 school districts in Wisconsin are offering 4K this year. These programs currently serve 33,976 children, an enrollment growth of 22.4 percent over last year. Burmaster noted that much of this
year’s 4K growth was due to support from Gov. Jim Doyle and the Legislature for 4K through state-funded grants that were part of the 2007-09 state budget. Several districts benefited from 4K startup grants and will receive an estimated $700 per student to defray the costs of implementing 4K. Local school districts offering 4K are
damage in corn and how corn fungicides can improve yields, and Feb. 4 with discussions on soybean disease management. Please register by calling the Spooner Area Extension Office to reserve a seat. The workshop is free of charge and open to the public. CCA credits will be available for certified crop advisors. If you have any questions, please contact Kevin Schoessow, area agriculture development agent at 715-635-3506 or 800-528-1914. - from UW-Extension
Amery, Birchwood, Clayton, Clear Lake, Frederic, Grantsburg, Luck, Osceola, St. Croix Falls, Shell Lake, Siren, Unity, Turtle Lake and Webster. Luck is one of 37 districts statewide to implement 4K in the 2008-09 school year. - with information from the Department of Public Instruction
Informal gathering celebrates longer days to come
DULUTH - All the snow and cold makes this seem like a long winter already, even though it only officially began on Sunday. But a group of men and women gathered in Duluth for the 36th-annual Hump Day Festival to celebrate the fact that days are now getting longer. The crowd gathers over a plate of onion rings, Reuben sandwiches, and beer at the century-old Pickwick
Restaurant. No one invites anyone or even reserves the room. They just all show up. “All together, Humpers are we, gathered to lunch and we hope it is free. We’re optimistic, most positive. Tomorrow will be better if we live,” sings Jerry Fryberger, to the melody of the Notre Dame Victory March. With only about 8-1/2 hours of daylight now, “Mr. President” Fryberger says longer
days are something to sing about. “We gather together once a year, the fellowship is terrific and so is the beer. Now days are longer and everything’s fine, so everyone empty their stein…hey!” Duluth native Jim Pratt is a Hump Day regular. He says it’s just some oldfashioned and somewhat off-color, no “PC” fun.
“Some of the stories get a little seedy and some of the language gets off-color from time to time but it’s totally harmless,” he says. “For such an unorganized organization, it’s free will, everyone comes to speak their mind a little bit and leave-your-dignity-at-the-door kind of thing.” - Wisconsin Public Radio (Mike Simonson)
P O L K C O U N T Y H E A D L I N E S
Feingold pushes for water technology and energy efficiency WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wis., is continuing his E4 initiative to create jobs and spur economic development by urging the Obama administration and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nevada, to invest in infrastructure projects to help connect workers to employment opportunities in the expected economic stimulus package. President-elect Obama has indicated he would like an economic stimulus package on his desk ready for him to sign soon after he takes office in January. Earlier this year, Feingold launched his E4 initiative, dubbed E4 because of its focus on economy, employment, education, and energy. “Wisconsin has an outstanding workforce, and we must do more to help these workers gain access to quality jobs,” Feingold said. “Expanded transit programs, van pools, vehicle purchase and repair programs for low income workers provided through JARC can help connect workers with the employers who need them.” In his letter, Feingold highlighted the need to address crumbling highways, schools and public housing along with outlining four ways to the economic recovery package can address longterm needs, spur job creation and boost the economy: Investing in transit Feingold called for increased funding for the Job Access and Reverse Commute program, a top priority in his E4 initiative launched earlier this year. The JARC program provides reliable transportation to help low-income workers reach more destinations so they can have access to better jobs. However, Wisconsin transit agencies have found it difficult to meet the cost share and paperwork requirements of the program, which is why Feingold has made improving and increasing funding for the program a priority. Feingold similarly supported investment in transit and passenger rail infrastructure in the letter, which also would help reduce transportation barriers. Supporting clean drinking water Feingold called on Obama and Reid to prioritize investments for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure in the expected economic recovery program to help create jobs and tackle environmental and public health challenges. In the letter, Feingold wrote that fund-
ing must be provided for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The National Association of Clean Water Agencies estimates that for each $1 billion invested in clean water infrastructure, 47,000 jobs are generated. Creating green-collar jobs Feingold is also pushing for the stimulus to include an investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy to help create new green-collar jobs. Feingold is specifically pushing for support for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program that supports the efforts of local governments to increase energy efficiency and implement renewable energy projects. The block grants have the potential to create 60,000 jobs in construction and installation over the next year, 24,000 jobs in materials manufacturing, and an additional 183,600 indirect jobs in other sectors that could generate up to $2.3 billion in energy savings each year. When the block program was created in December 2007, Feingold led efforts to ensure the program supported projects that are environmentally sustainable and maximize benefits for local and regional communities. Erasing the digital divide Feingold also encouraged Obama to follow through on his call to erase the digital divide and ensure we provide universal Internet service considering the number of employment and other opportunities made available through broadband access. Fiscally responsible approach Feingold expressed pleasure that earmarks will reportedly not be included in the stimulus and advocated for competitive and formula based funding to ensure that taxpayer dollars are well spent. “While our country is facing some very tough economic times, we also have a great opportunity to put people to work by building a stronger nation,” Feingold said. “This economic recovery program can potentially create jobs that make our drinking water safer, close the digital divide by improving broadband Internet access and improve other elements of our infrastructure while prioritizing assistance for the most worthy projects to reduce wasteful spending.” – submitted
Resident feedback sought by St. Croix Falls tourism committee
ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix Falls Tourism Committee has been working since midsummer on a brand and logo concept that can identify and unite St. Croix Falls businesses and even its immediate surroundings. In the New Year, they’ll like resident feedback on a design they’d like to implement. The multiple purpose of the branding is not just an effort designed at obtaining new tourists. Tourism committee member Michael Norcross says, “Our desire is to capture the spirit of those attracted to live in this area thereby creating a brand that captures the hearts of our citizens.” “The processes began last June,” says Melanie Nelson, tourism coordinator for the committee. “We looked through city records to see what has been done been before and what community leaders have learned from past studies and surveys. We also interviewed about 60 community and business leaders to identify exactly what makes St. Croix Falls a great tourist destination. Then in September, we got a dozen of those lead-
ers on board to help us really zero in on what a brand/ logo might look like for promoting tourism from the heart.” Since then, artist and designer Kay Lambert of the Prarie Star, and project manager Jerry Boucher of School House Productions were hired to develop a concept. Several designs were created and critiqued which has lead the team to a concept they feel confident in. In mid-December they began what will ultimately be a series of nearly a dozen focus groups to gather feedback on the design. “Now,” says Nelson, “we want feedback.” A resident focus group is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 12, at Our Place Café, (formerly Ember’s), in St. Croix Falls from 8:15 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. All residents interested in fine tuning a new logo/ brand that captures the heart of St. Croix Falls which will eventually appear on all trail head signs, in businesses and on advertising for the community, should come. - from St. Croix Falls Tourism Committee
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7
PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
L e a d e r
Words to act by
We b Po l l
Total votes: 48
Would you fight a Wal-Mart coming to your area?: 16 votes (33%) Yes, to protect our local businesses 32 votes (67%) No, we need jobs, convenience To take part in our Web poll, go to www.the-leader.net and scroll down to the lower left portion of the screen
This week’s question New Year’s wishes?: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
F O R U M
Lose weight and/or stop smoking More time with family Hold on to my job Find a job Whatever will be, will be
J o e H e l l e r
Our state legislators are facing dozens of new resolutions as the new year begins and some of them will involve drinking. In Wisconsin ranks first among all states in alcohol consumption. There will be a few opportunities for lawmakers to perhaps help lower our status in that category, or at least show the rest of the nation we have a few brain cells left among us that work fine, thank you. Our state’s status in this category has prompted some eloquent writing. Words which should serve to remind us all, including lawmakers, that with a little bit of awareness and work, we might be able to shed this title. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel’s brilliant Wasted in Wisconsin series compares Wisconsin’s legislative track record with other states, including Iowa’s. The Hawkeye state ranks right behind us in alcohol consumption yet has toughened its laws which many feel are responsible for fewer drunk driving deaths. An MSJ editorial suggests raising the alcohol tax (we’re currently third-lowest in the U.S.), ignition interlocks for those convicted of OWI, banning “all you can drink” specials at taverns, make OWI a felony before the fifth offense and getting tougher on first-time offenders. The paper also offers insight into the human toll, profiling a drunk driving victim from each of the counties in the state, while rendering the cold statistics to the sidebar status. This is worth a look. It can be found by entering Sobering Reminders - JSOnline, into your search engine. Polk County ranks 57th, Burnett 23rd and Washburn 14th among the state’s 72 counties in OWI-related deaths over the past four years (2003 to 2007). Polk ranks 48th in OWI convictions (1,601 convictions), Burnett an admirable 2nd (1,068 convictions) and Washburn, with about the same population as Burnett, 28th (730 convictions). Of course, saving lives is the motivating factor for changes in OWI law, but as political observer Matt Pommer points out, 30 percent of emergency room admissions to the UW Hospital are tied to irresponsible alcohol consumption, costing $35 million for 1,400 people. Only one third was covered by health insurance. State law allows insurance companies to refuse payment if alcohol is cited as a cause for injury. The costs end up being absorbed by taxpayers as charity care and - in turn - the amount charged for other care. Rice Lake Chronotype reporter Eileen Nimm provided an insightful look at the path of a man who just received his 10th OWI (see Area News). Ever wonder how someone can keep their license or not be locked up by the time they’ve reached that stage of recidivism? Speaking of repeat offenders, Polk County Judge Robert Rasmussen offers frank words on his frustration with seeing so many faces that have become a fixture in his courtroom, in an interview with The Valley Wire of Osceola. It doesn’t take the mirror of journalism to tell us drunk driving and alcoholrelated crime is a major problem, compounded by a well-meaning but flawed system. But it doesn’t hurt to remind ourselves continually until something is done about it.
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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) 2321390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us
Rep. Mary Hubler 75th Assembly District Room 7 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8952 Madison, WI 53708 or 1966 21-7/8 St. (Hawthorne Lane), Rice Lake 54868 (715) 234-7421• (608) 266-2519 rep.hubler@legis.state.wi.us
U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold SDB 40, Rm. 1 Washington, D.C. 20510 or 1600 Aspen Commons Middleton, WI 53562-4716 (608) 828-1200 senator@feingold.senate.gov
Senator Robert Jauch 25th Senate District Room 19 South State Capitol P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 E-mail: Sen.Jauch@legis.state.wi.us
U.S. Senator Herb Kohl 330 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510 senator_kohl@kohl.senate.gov Congressman Ron Kind 3rd Congressional District 1713 Longwirth Office Bdg. Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-5506 888-442-8040 (toll-free) ron.kind@mail.house.gov
lease take a few minutes to read Gregg Westigard’s stories on local caucuses, elsewhere in this issue. For some, caucuses may have received a bad reputation in the recent presidential election from some of the stories of inconvenience and ineptness about the process itself. But the local town and village caucuses are a far cry from the presidential caucuses. For one thing, representation at local town and village caucuses has been traditionally low. In some cases, one or two people are present, if any. That’s been looked upon by some as a sign that everything is working fine at the most grassroots level of our democracy. But there’s also the argument that fresh blood – whether in representation or simple audience participation – is also positive. How many of you have been to a town or village board meeting just to experience it? Do you know who is representing you at the town level? The dates of caucuses in both Burnett and Polk counties are included in our stories this week. Consider taking the time to attend. Take your son or daughter.
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For the Leader readers
his issue marks the Inter-County Leader’s final edition of 2008, a year in which we marked our 75th year, mostly internally, with a few public reminders – OK, maybe boasts – here and there. After all, this company – the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association - began in the depth of the Great Depression, and here we are, 75 years later, still kicking, thanks to faithful readers and customers. The next 75 years will prove interesting for us – and those who inherit the reins, beginning with the coming year. The most obvious transformation – in how news gets presented and delivered – is still in the beginning stages for most community newspapers – but we’ve embraced it not unlike our printers embraced offset printing technology decades ago. Where else can you turn the pages of your local newspaper with a click of a mouse from anywhere in the world, minutes after it’s gone to press - most weeks before the print version reaches the sales counter? If you haven’t tried our e-edition, please take a look at our demo version free of charge at www.the-leader.net. The Leader’s circulation has doubled over the past two or three decades, partly due to local readers who offered direction through feedback and interaction. Enough reflection on us. It’s time to get back to reflecting on the lives of our readers. And our special year is over. Here’s to the next 75 years...of Leader readers – and for Leader readers.
Views expressed on these pages do not necessarily represent those of the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association management or board
T h e
Make a date with your caucus
I n t e r ! C o u n t y
All unsigned editorials on this page are by editor Gary King
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9
Pull your heads from the sand I was struck by an editorial that originally appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and was reprinted in the op-ed section of the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Dec. 3, entitled In Wisconsin Too Many Open Records Lapses. I encourage all who are interest in civil rights and good citizenship to access the article by going to the newspaper reference section at the library. What caught my eye was this sentence: “A recent statewide audit by open records advocates found that three in 10 requests made under the state’s open records law were not adequately fulfilled and nearly 10 percent were denied or ignored.” The editorial goes on to describe the Wisconsin Attorney General’s efforts to educate the public and government offi-
Letters to the editor The Leader welcomes letters to the editor. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. Letters are subject to being edited for length, taste and/or clarity, and we urge writers to be brief and limit their letters to 500 words or less. Writers must provide their name and give their complete address and phone number. Content that will cause letters to be rejected include: Crude language, poor taste, disrespectful comments regarding a group’s or individual’s ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race; other incendiary language or personal attacks.
Letters t o t h e e d i t o r cials at all levels on the citizens’ right to know under the law and the frustration that exists in trying to get compliance. For the past two years, I’ve been trying to gain access to public records and elected officials in Clam Falls in connection with ongoing litigation emanating from the town’s erection of a 55-mph speed-limit sign on the narrow, winding gravel road that affords access to my home and is frequently used by residents on foot for exercise or dog walking (See Inter-County Leader, letters section, “Sign of Stupidity,” 9/20/06). Early on, after months of repeated requests to have a speed control sign compatible with the road’s design, condition and use installed, and having been subject, with others, to the safety risks and inconvenience resulting from incompatible use of the road, I filed suit against the town. Commensurate with common civil legal process, as a plaintiff, I attempted to gain access to town records which might shed light on the sign’s erection and to which I have a right as a resident. Before doing so, I obtained copies of Wisconsin statutes governing open meetings and open records. It didn’t take a legal beagle to proceed. With the statutes before me, I prepared my requests to discover the rationale and communications of town officials that precipitated the sign’s erection and its sudden, mysterious removal within a few weeks following the filing of my small claims suit. My requests, even under the federal Freedom of Information Act, were thwarted, refused, ignored or denied. I learned the painful, expensive way
while you may believe, in principle, that the law is on your side, in practice, at least in Polk County, that may not be the case. I spoke with civil rights authorities and sunshine law advocates about the situation. The consensus is that the cozy, politically expedient relationship between the judiciary, law enforcement, a complacent DA and elected government officials, aided by unscrupulous attorneys, has fostered an attitude of arrogance, selective administration of justice, secrecy and benign neglect of moral responsibility that’s become culturally tolerated by the majority of folks in this area. Needless to say, I’m not one of them. My case against the town has exposed a can of worms of deliberate open meeting, open records law violations and is a long way from being concluded. I urge others to pull your heads from the sand. Exercise intellectual courage and good citizenship and demand the accountability that’s your right under the law. Remember, elections are but a few months away! Bradley Ayers Clam Falls-Somers Lake
Admission Now that Vice President Cheney openly admitted on network TV that the Bush administration gave the orders which allowed water boarding, I wonder how those who stubbornly cling to the “just a few bad apples theory” feel about this admission by the vice president.
Hopefully they do not believe, as the vice president does, that water boarding is not torture. That is a distortion of reality on a grand scale. Justification is a more likely scenario. That is if we don’t torture high-profile prisoners we put ourselves at risk. Clearly we are at risk of a terrorist attack, but it saddens me dearly to think that we have to use torture as a means of keeping our democracy safe. Doug Gray St. Croix Falls
A repeat? 1940, The Warsaw Ghetto was a walled off part of Poland where the Jews were forced to exist without adequate food water and health care by the German Nazis. Hate for the Jews was inflamed by the Nazi propaganda machine. When the Jews started an uprising it was brutally put down by the murderous Nazi soldiers with bombs and guns. 2008, The Gaza Strip is a walled off part of the middle east where the Palestinians are forced to exist without adequate food water and health care by the Israelis. Hate for the Palestinians is inflamed by the Israeli propaganda machine. When the Palestinians started an uprising it was brutally put down by the murderous Israeli soldiers with bombs and guns. History does repeat itself! Darrel Mathieu Luck
Special project will keep dignitaries warm at inauguration GREEN BAY - A Green Bay company that employs the developmentally disabled is working on a special project. Employees are making scarves that will keep dignitaries warm at next month’s presidential inauguration. The company–called ASPIRO–is used to making wool scarves for the military. But when Joan Pigeon, manager of government orders, looked at a recent order form something at the bottom caught
Tim DeChristopher is an economics
student at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. He had just finished his last final exam before winter break. One of the exam questions was, “If the oil and gas companies are the only ones who bid on public lands, are the true costs of oil and gas exploitation reflected in the prices paid?” DeChristopher was inspired. He finished the exam, threw on his red parka and went off to the controversial Bureau of Land Management land auction that the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance called “the Bush administration’s last great gift to the oil and gas industry.” Instead of joining the protest outside, he registered as a bidder, then bought 22,000 acres of public land. That is, he successfully bid on the public properties, located near the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and Dinosaur National Monument, and other pristine areas. The price tag: more than $1.7 million. He told me: “Once I started buying up every parcel, they understood pretty clearly what was going on...they stopped the auction, and some federal agents came in and took me out. I guess there was a lot of chaos, and they didn’t really know how to proceed at that point.” Patrick Shea, a former BLM director, is representing DeChristopher. Shea told the Deseret News: “What Tim did was in the best tradition of civil disobe-
her attention. “It’s for the presidential inauguration, and we are making black scarves – 4,425 – for everyone that’s in the reviewing stand. So we are extremely excited about it.” The first order of 1,400 scarves is being shipped to Washington, D.C., this week. The other 3,000 must be done by the first week of January. Pigeon says about a dozen people are on the project.
They cut the American-made wool to size then finish the ends. There’s also a “made in Green Bay” label along with ASPIRO’s logo on the scarves tags. Pigeon says the workers are taking a bit of extra pride in this order. “And when they watch the inauguration on January 20, and they see anybody in the reviewing stand with a black scarf, they will know they had something to do with it because we are
resident, often invoked the dience, he did this without Industrial Workers of the causing any physical or mateWorld adage: “Direct action rial harm. His purpose was to gets the goods.” draw attention to the illegitiMore than just scenic beauty macy and immorality of the will be harmed by these BLM process.” sales. Drilling impacts air and There is a long tradition of water quality. According to disrupting land development High Country News, “The in Utah. In his memoir, BLM had not analyzed impacts “Desert Solitaire,” Edward on ozone levels from some Abbey, the writer and 2,300 wells drilled in the area activist, wrote: “Wilderness. since 2004 ... nor had it predictThe word itself is music. ... Amy We scarcely know what we Goodman ed air impacts from the estimated 6,300 new wells mean by the term, though the approved in the plan.” sound of it draws all whose nerves and emotions have not yet been ProPublica reports that the Colorado irreparably stunned, deadened, River “powers homes for 3 million peonumbed by the caterwauling of com- ple, nourishes 15 percent of the nation’s merce, the sweating scramble for profit crops and provides drinking water to one in 12 Americans. Now a rush to and domination.” Abbey’s novel “The Monkey Wrench develop domestic oil, gas and uranium Gang” inspired a generation of envi- deposits along the river and its triburonmental activists to take “direct taries threatens its future.” action,” disrupting “development.” As After questioning by federal authoriThe Salt Lake Tribune reported on ties, DeChristopher was released. DeChristopher: “He didn’t pour sugar The U.S. attorney is currently weighinto a bulldozer’s gas tank. He didn’t ing charges. DeChristopher reflects: spike a tree or set a billboard on fire. “This has really been emotional and But wielding only a bidder’s paddle, a hopeful for me to see the kind of supUniversity of Utah student just as sure- port over the last couple of days...for all ly monkey-wrenched a federal oil- and the problems that people can talk about gas-lease sale Friday, ensuring that in this country and for all the apathy thousands of acres near two southern and the eight years of oppression and Utah national parks won’t be opened to the decades of eroding civil liberties, drilling anytime soon.” America is still very much the kind of Likewise, the late Utah Phillips, folk place that when you stand up for what musician, activist and longtime Utah is right, you never stand alone.”
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the only ones in the United States that make them.” Pigeon says ASPIRO may host an inauguration watching party, with everyone keeping a close eye to see if Barack Obama is wearing one of their scarves when he takes the oath of office. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Patty Murray)
His disruption of the auction has temporarily blocked the Bush-enabled land grab by the oil and gas industries. If DeChristopher can come up with $45,000 by Dec. 29, he can make the first payment on the land, possibly avoiding any claim of fraud. If the BLM opts to re-auction the land, it can’t happen until after the Obama administration takes over. The outcome of the sales, if they happen at all, will likely be different, thanks to the direct action of an activist, raising his voice, and his bidding paddle, in opposition. ••• Denis Moynihan contributed research to this column. ••• Amy Goodman is the host of “Democracy Now!,” a daily international TV/radio news hour airing on more than 700 stations in North America. Her column’s appearance in the Leader is sponsored by the local group, The Gathering, an informal group of people of diverse ages, experience, and philosophies who meet every other week at a member’s home for silent meditation and lively discussions about peace, justice, spirituality, religion, politics, environment, global cultures and humanity. “We have a deep concern about how religious ideals affect society. Therefore, we are also interested in politics and in causes and programs, which will benefit our community,” says a spokesperson for the group.
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A R E A Man charged with 10th OWI CUMBERLAND - A Cumberland man who hasn’t had a driver’s license for 16 years has been charged in Barron County Circuit Court with 10th-offense drunken driving. Daniel C. Hess, 40, appeared in Barron County Circuit Court on Dec. 17 on felony charges of 10th-offense drunken driving and operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration, 0.02 percent or more, and misdemeanor operating after revocation. Judge Timothy Doyle set as bail a $1,000 signature bond, which Hess posted. The criminal complaint states that law enforcement officers responded to a report of a one-vehicle crash on CTH B at Hwy. 63 north of Cumberland in the town of Lakeland on Oct. 22 at 12:46 a.m. When the officers arrived, they saw a 1994 Ford Taurus on its roof. Hess was trapped inside. Hess was extricated from the car and airlifted to Region’s Hospital in St. Paul. Hess’s blood alcohol level was 0.194 percent, or nearly 2-1/2 times the legal limit for nonrepeat drunk drivers of 0.08 percent. A check of Hess’s driving status stated that his driver’s license was revoked, and he had nine prior convictions of OWI, the complaint stated. Wisconsin Circuit Court records state that during the past 11 years, Hess was convicted of drunken driving three times in Barron County, twice in Lincoln County and once each in Polk, Burnett and Washburn counties. Over the years in Wisconsin, Hess was ordered to serve a total of about 3 years in jail. Then in March 2002, Washburn County Judge Eugene Harrington ordered Hess to serve 2 years in prison with the condition that he undergo alcohol treatment on another OWI conviction. After his prison term, Hess was placed on three years of extended supervision. That supervision was revoked and in June 2007. Hess was ordered to serve two years in prison. He was given credit for 440 days already served. For his last OWI conviction, which was in Barron County in December 2002, Judge Edward Brunner imposed and stayed three years and four months in prison and placed Hess on five years of probation. He was ordered to undergo AODA treatment. Court records state then Hess violated a condi-
tion of probation by failing to report to the Cumberland Police Department for a daily alcohol breath test. Brunner in March 2003 imposed and stayed a 1-1/2year prison term and placed Hess on an additional five years of probation. Acting Judge Paul Lenz in April 2003 gave Hess credit for 248 days already served. Over the course of about 11 years, Hess’s driver’s license was revoked for a total of 19 years. If Hess is convicted of 10th OWI, he faces a maximum penalty of 12 1/2 years in prison or a $25,000 fine or both. Rice Lake Chronotype Two injured in snowmobile crash PINE CITY, MINN. - Two people were injured in snowmobile accident Saturday in Pine City. Pine County Chief Deputy Steve Ovick told Red Rock Radio that Beau Burgland, 24, and Amber Nichol, 20, both from Pine City, suffered injuries and were taken away by ambulance to the hospital after the snowmobile they were riding on hit a bank and flipped over. The severity of the injuries are not yet known. The incident happened off the river near the Red Dog Billy’s Bar and Grill off I-35. -redrockonair.comBudget whittled by $3 million PINE COUNTY, MINN. - The Pine County Board approved the 2009 budget on Dec. 23, after taking the original budget of $33.5 million down to $30.5 million. They also approved a tax levy of $14,289,330— a 2.4-percent increase from last year commissioners and department heads spent about four hours on Dec. 18 going through the budget line by line. In that session alone, they were able to cut $412,000. “Everybody gave something,” said Commissioner Steve Hallan. The session was an attempt to cut funds out of the budget to anticipate not receiving the $1.5 million in Local Government Aid from the state next year. Most likely, the county will get some of the aid, but now officials are prepared in case it doesn’t happen. The budget is also developed around the assumption that the county will not be receiving $300,000 in tax refunds for the new courthouse. County
N E W S coordinator Mark LeBrun said if and when those funds are given to the county, the money should be used for cash flow instead of going on a county spending spree. “I don’t want people to get the idea that there was $2 million of fat in the budget prior to today,” said Commissioner Roger Nelson.. “A lot of it is expenses that were shifted to the next year that we’re eventually going to have to purchase. Also, fund balances are being spent down, so those can’t go on forever as well.” The approved budget reflects the $1.5 million cuts made by the department heads and budget committee, and the other $1.5 million will be the delay of road projects. The cuts included: $400,000 from the general fund (the smaller departments), $400,000 from the Health and Human Services Department and $700,00 from the Highway Department. - Pine City Pioneer Two nabbed in stolen check shopping spree BARRON COUNTY - Stolen checks were used to make a series of purchases around Rice Lake earlier this month, and authorities have since charged two individuals with a count of forgery. The two suspects – Kristy L. Bady, 32, and Sedric L. Bady, 37, both of Clayton – were taken into custody and interrogated at the county jail. Sedric Bady allegedly admitted to law enforcement that he had obtained a purse from the cashier at Goodwill and used a debit card in it at Wal-Mart to purchase about $400 worth of clothes and toys. The male defendant allegedly further admitted that the couple had returned to Rice Lake later that same day; while purchase attempts with the debit card were refused, they were able to buy a big-screen television, a TV stand and two movies by using checks. Law enforcement maintains that the checks used in those purchases were stolen. Both defendants made Dec. 15 initial court appearances where Judge Tim Doyle established $2,500 signature bonds. The defendants signed their bonds the following day. Jan. 5 preliminary hearing have been scheduled in both cases. If convicted on the forgery charges, then each defendant faces a
maximum penalty of six years in prison and $10,000 in fines. - Barron News-Shield Consolidation study nears completion LADYSMITH - The $29,500 consolidation feasibility study for the LadysmithHawkins, Bruce and Weyerhaeuser school districts is nearing completion, soon giving the public a glimpse at how the three schools with declining enrollment could be combined. The study will feature numerous recommendations including what schools could be closed, how the grades could be configured at the remaining buildings, what academic programs could be offered and the physical condition of buildings, according to Ladysmith-Hawkins School District Administrator Mario Friedel. He said the current consolidation study originated from a 2006 Ladysmith-Hawkins School District fiscal task force report. That report recommended routine quarterly or semi-annual meetings with surrounding school districts to discuss issues arising from declining enrollments like shared services, personnel levels and consolidations. “We are facing declining enrollment and increasing expenses, and we are having a hard time balancing our budget,” Bruce School District Administrator Deb Brown said. “I don’t see it improving. We are looking forward to the future to do what is best for our students and district residents.” The Weyerhaeuser Area School District led the state in declining enrollment between 2001 and 2006, and that trend is likely to continue through 2011, according to Sdministrator Chris Nelson. He said state revenue limits restricting school spending and declining enrollment are making it impossible for small schools to keep going. “When you get to the point of being so small, you struggle to offer a quality education program to the state,” Nelson said. “We are all suffering from the lack of school-age population.” The study — funded partly with a $10,000 state grant — is currently scheduled to be presented to the public at 7 p.m. Feb. 4, during a joint meeting of all three school boards at Ladysmith High School. LadysmithNews
Hraychuck appointed to five Assembly committees MADISON – Assembly Speaker-elect Rep. Mike Sheridan has appointed Rep. Ann Hraychuck as a member of five committees for the upcoming session. In addition to chairing the Assembly fish and wildlife committee, Hraychuck will continue to serve on the natural resources committee, criminal justice committee and the tourism, recreation and state properties committee as she did last session. New to Rep. Hraychuck’s responsibilities is the rural economic development committee. “I am very pleased with my committee assignments for the 2009-2010 ses-
sion and believe they capture many of the key issues people in the 28th Assembly District care about,” said Hraychuck. “Not only do they reflect the district, but they also reflect my passions and experience.” While there are other legislators with law enforcement experience, Hraychuck is the only former sheriff serving in the legislature. “I look forward to using 32 years of law enforcement experience to further public safety in Wisconsin through the criminal justice committee,” said Hraychuck. “Managing our natural resources, protecting our environment,
promoting tourism, and strengthening our economy are issues that my colleagues and I will be addressing through the committee process,” continued Hraychuck. The Assembly Democratic leadership team reorganized committees and made assignments to reflect the pressing needs of the people of the state of Wisconsin and the varied strengths of the Democratic caucus. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find ways to use the committees as means of cultivating job growth and
continuing to improve the quality of life in Wisconsin,” said Hraychuck. “We are facing tough economic times, and we can’t rely on the state budget process to fix all of our problems. I think utilizing our committee members is a great way to generate alternative solutions,” added Hraychuck. In addition to the issues addressed in her committees, Hraychuck will also continue to work on tax fairness, property tax relief, health care reform and education funding issues during this session. - submitted
"# t h S e n a t e D i s t r i c t Co-op health care benefits farmers
With a national and global economic slowdown, families are faced with even more difficult decisions in finding affordable, quality health care. Thankfully, Wisconsin has been a state leader in expanding access to health care through BadgerCare Plus and creating innovative health care cooperatives for underserved families. In 2003, the Wisconsin State Legislature unanimously passed legislation that facilitates individuals and small groups to form health care coop-
eratives to enhance purchases, they have a new option ing power. The first statewide that caters to their needs. group to form under this legisA recent survey found that lation was the Farmers Health over 80 percent of the memCooperative of Wisconsin. bers of the Farmers Health Farmers traditionally repreCooperative had stabilized or sent one of the most underreduced premium costs, with served populations in acquirover two-thirds realizing ing affordable health care. improved benefits. The Many farmers were faced Farmers Health Cooperative with having no health insurwas originally expected to Sheila ance or only catastrophic covserve 1,000 members, but erage. These farm families Harsdorf today serves over 2,500. For often turn to off-farm employ2009, the Farmers Health ment in order to access health Cooperative will expand bencare coverage. Now with co-op care efits through the provision of dental designed for farmers and agribusiness- benefits. Those wanting to learn more
about this cooperative can visit www.farmershealthcooperative.com or call 800-539-9370. Since the creation of the Farmers Health Cooperative in 2007, several other regional co-ops have and are being formed. Locally, business leaders are working on establishing a cooperative for small businesses in western Wisconsin. Information can be found online at www.unitedscv.com/chchealth.htm. I welcome your continued input on this or any other issue. Please call me at 800-862-1092 or visit my Web site, www.harsdorfsenate.com.
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2008 Year in review: Top 20 stories Engstrom adds another gold Molly Engstrom played in the International Ice Hockey Federation World Women’s Championship in April of 2008. Team USA and Engstrom brought home a gold medal from the championship game. The team won, 4-3, in the championship game against Canada to bring home the gold. This was Engstrom’s second gold medal. She also has one silver and one bronze medal in her collection. In 2005, Engstrom was part of Team USA and she scored two goals in the championship game to help win her first gold. During the 2006 Olympic Winter Games, Engstrom played with the U.S. team in order to bring home a bronze medal. The IIHF Championship in 2007 is where Engstrom won her silver and in 2008 Team USA won another gold, giving Engstrom her second gold medal. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Luck cheerleaders off to Australia Luck cheerleaders Aushleana Branville and Kayla Karl will be making the trip of a lifetime when they go to Australia this summer. The two will be competing as members of the Wisconsin Down Under team in the Down Under Spirit Championships to be held in Australia in June of 2009. Branville and Karl earned their positions on the team at tryouts held during a stunting skills clinic on Sunday, Nov. 16, in Wisconsin Rapids. They were picked out of the 17 squads that attended the clinic, along with 12 other individuals. Each individual chosen was picked after performing a dance, a jump and a cheer for Wisconsin Down Under coach Sue Poeschl. Poeschl was also judging them all day on how they performed at the clinic and how well they worked with others. The team will return to Wisconsin Rapids for practices in April to prepare for their departure the end of June. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Molly Engstrom, formerly of Siren, won another gold medal with Team USA during 2008. – Photo submitted Basketball coaches reach 100 wins Both Grantsburg boys basketball coach, Danny Judd, and Webster girls basketball coach, Greg Widiker, reached the 100-win mark during the year 2008. Judd began coaching during the 200102 season and has carried a winning conference record in all but one year, according to the school Web site. He took his 100th win during their game against Frederic, Thursday, Jan. 17. “I’m proud of it and happy and everything…it just wasn’t the most important part of the season to me,” Judd said. Widiker’s 100th win came when the Tiger girls beat Unity on Friday, Feb. 1. “I guess what hit me most is the appreciation of all the different girls, their hard work and what it took to build 100 victories,” Widiker said afterwards. Widiker’s career with the Tigers started in 1999, but has now ended when he resigned from the position after the 2007-08 season. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Aushleana Branville and Kayla Karl made the Wisconsin Down Under team. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld
Erin Schmidt gets 500 rebounds Frederic senior Erin Schmidt reached her 500th rebound of her varsity basketball career. She needed eight rebounds during the game against Solon Springs on Tuesday, Feb. 5, in order to reach the 500 mark. Schmidt had nine rebounds during the game. Coach Troy Wink honored Schmidt before tip-off of the following game, announcing her achievement to the audience. “She does it with good position. She’s not afraid to make contact with people and that’s where she’s gotten so much better at it,” Wink said. Wink also said that Schmidt’s consistency and success under the basket is due in part to her work ethic and leadership. Wink said, “Schmidt is a leader by example.” Schmidt averaged 10 boards a game during the 2007-08 season, her final high school year of basketball. She had 28 rebounds her freshman year, 122 as a sophomore, 190 her junior year and had 160 her senior year at the point when she reached 500. – Brenda Sommerfeld
Greg Widiker
Frederic’s Erin Schmidt received recognition for 500 rebounds. – Photo submitted
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Nelson to play Division 1 volleyball It’s a huge accomplishment when a high school athlete rides success to the level of a Division 1 school. Even more impressive, is when an athlete gets the break of a lifetime to play at the Division 1 level without ever playing a single game in that sport in high school. Andy Nelson, a 2006 St. Croix Falls High School graduate, joined the Ball State Volleyball team in the fall of 2008, and also received a partial scholarship to play at the college. His main sports during high school included basketball and cross-country, and he was a three-time MVP on the Saints basketball team. Nelson always wanted to attend a Division 1 school, eventually got that opportunity and will be eligible to play for three seasons. His parents, Mark and Laurie, were are both alumni of the University of Minnesota, and many know his sister, Meredith, who was a four-year letter winner and All-American volleyball player for the Gophers as well. – Marty Seeger
Andy Nelson, 2006 SCF graduate, played on the Ball State volleyball team during 2008. – Photo submitted
Extra Points
••• FREDERIC – Sports coverage on the Northern Badger wrestling tournament, the Forest Lake holiday boys hockey tournament, the Clayton boys basketball tournament and the Eagle River girls basketball tournament will be featured in the Wednesday, Jan. 7, issue of the Inter-County Leader due to our earlier than normal deadlines and the New Year’s holiday. ••• STEVENS POINT – Former Luck basketball player, Britta Petersen has continued to be a force for the Stevens Point girls basketball team, and was nominated as Subway’s Athlete of the week on Dec. 15. Petersen scored 17 points in a road win over UW-La Crosse with five rebounds, two blocks and a steal. She shot 5 for 8 in the Pointers win over Luther College, good enough for 10 points. Petersen leads the team in blocks and points as she averages 14.6 points per game in the team’s past nine games. The Pointers are 9-1 on the season with their only loss coming to UW-Eau Claire. ••• THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. – UWStout senior Charlee Edwards had six points and a career-high 10 rebounds in the Posada Royale Tournament hosted by California Lutheran University. The former Webster athlete is averaging 11.4 points per game. ••• LEADER LAND – The Unity at Luck boys and girls basketball games can be heard on 104.9 FM on Tuesday, Jan. 6, with the first game beginning at 6 p.m. Amery boys basketball at Durand can be heard on 1260 AM beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 6. ••• MADISON – The Friday, Jan. 2, and Saturday, Jan. 3, Badger hockey games versus Northern Michigan can be heard on 1260 AM beginning at 7 p.m. both nights. The Badger men’s basketball game at home versus Penn State can be heard on Saturday, Jan. 3, on 1260 AM beginning at 1 p.m. ••• MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Philadelphia Eagles at Vikings game can be heard on Sunday, Jan., 4, on 104.9 FM beginning at 3:30 p.m. ••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to go in Extra Points! – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete who will be playing collegiate sports in 2008 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld
SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week! S P O R T S N E W S O R S C O R E S T O R E P O R T ? • P H O N E : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 2 3 6 • FA X : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 1 1 7 • E - M A I L : m s e e g e r @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t
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Rikkola reaches wrestling milestone It could be compared to the equivalent of 4,000-plus career-rushing yards in high school football, or 1,000 career points in basketball. Either way you look at it, 100-plus career wins in wrestling is an important goal in any high school wrestling career. The St. Croix Falls wrestling program can boast about 15 or 20 wrestlers who have reached 100 career wins, but senior Justin Rikkola, 119 lbs., reached well above that mark by the end of last season. “If you can get to 100 wins, you’re in pretty elite company,” said coach Dan Clark, who watched Justin Rikkola get just under 120 career wins. Clark said that Rikkola’s 118 wins is even more elite company. It was also a great year for other area wrestlers, as St. Croix Falls wrestler Joe Raygor took fifth at state. Unity sent three wresters to state, including Dustin McKinney, Alex Peper and Ben Hendricks. McKinney and Hendricks each placed in the top six. Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg wrestler Justin Eley also went to the state tournament and placed sixth overall. – Marty Seeger Siren football coaches step down After a 10-year tenure as head coach of the Siren football team, Brian Webster and the rest of the coaching staff decided to step down. The decision was finalized during the open session of the regular school board meeting on Monday, Nov. 24. Others resigning were assistant football coaches Ryan Karsten and Darrell Imhoff. “I think what’s important to note here is that our coaches decided to step down, which is a voluntary move on their part,” said Siren’s district administrator, Scott Johnson.
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The Dragons football program went through the past two seasons without a win, but Johnson said the coaching staff gave the program everything they had to give despite having a low number of athletes to participate, as well as an unusually high number of injuries. There were no underlying reasons for the coaches resignations, but Johnson said it was important to recognize that the coaching staff put in countless hours
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“We’ve never been to sectionals, so the girls kind of have the attitude that we have nothing to lose, they’re just going to go out and play,” Hansford said. The Vikings had a bit of home field advantage in the sectional semifinal against the No. 2 seed, Hurley, who made it to the state finals game the year before. Although the team lost by a score of 13-2, it was definitely a great year for the Vikings softball team. – Marty Seeger
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Justin Rikkola had just under 120 career wins for the St. Croix Falls team during his wrestling season of 2008. – Photo by Marty Seeger of time for very little compensation, and did it for the love of the game and the enjoyment of just working with kids. – Marty Seeger
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The spring baseball transition Whether you agreed with it or not, spring baseball officially got under way in early April. Some coaches embraced the change from the summer conference to a spring conference, while others found it to be an interesting adjustment. St. Croix Falls and Luck had embraced spring baseball for several years, and the change was welcome for them as they were oftentimes forced to drive to Hammond or beyond to play a game of baseball. They now have shorter distances to drive for conference games and the rivalries will be much like the West Lakeland Basketball Conference. But Unity, Frederic, Grantsburg and the Siren/Webster co-op teams were new to spring baseball, and taking to the fields, or courts (due to wintry weather) was an interesting ordeal. Unity head coach Matt Humpal had mixed emotions, but he welcomed the change. “It’s fun,” says Humpal. “The competition is probably better, and every game is going to be good, so I’m a big fan of spring to be honest.” One of the downfalls for area schools was that athletes will now have to make a decision of whether to join track, golf or play baseball. The Frederic track team, for example, lost three key track athletes to baseball. – Marty Seeger
Grantsburg’s Kevin Johnson practices batting indoors, like every team, as baseball was changed to a spring sport in 2008. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld
Viking girls clutch first-ever regional title It went 11 innings in total, but when the dust finally cleared, the Vikings came out on top in one of the best finishes in Vikings softball history. The win was a sweet deal for the Frederic team, since neither the volleyball or basketball teams were able to make it beyond the regional finals during the 2008 season. Needless to say, coach Erin Hansford and the rest of the Vikings team were thrilled to have an opportunity to play in the sectional semifinal.
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Webster and SCF share football conference title The Webster Tigers football team took their first conference championship title in 32 years. The Tigers shared the title with St. Croix Falls and Clear Lake, after a 7-3 win over the Saints on Thursday, Oct. 23. Despite the Tigers loss to Ladysmith in the playoffs, they had much success over the season. Many thought a key to their success was the Tigers fan base. “I haven’t seen fan support like this in Webster football since I’ve been here as a head coach,” Voeltz said. “It’s great for our kids and our high school.” Both the Tigers and Saints ended the season with a conference record of 5-1 and an overall record of 8-2. The Saints season also ended in the first round of playoffs as they lost to Bloomer, 44-0. “I’m proud of the season we’ve had and I’m proud of the guys,” Saints coach Rod Sempf said. – Brenda Sommerfeld
The Frederic Vikings softball team won the regional championship title and played in sectionals during 2008. – Photo submitted
Webster and St. Croix Falls football teams shared the conference title with Clear Lake at the end of their 2007-08 season. – Photo by Marty Seeger
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Strilzuk brothers have memorable year In early February, Chad Strilzuk signed a letter of intent to play for the UMD Bulldog football team where his brother Cole had played the previous two seasons. Chad had a great 2007 season for the Unity football team as he posted 1,076 yards rushing, 769 yards passing and 1,924 yards of total offense. Defensively, he added 70 solo tackles, and 98 assists. He led the Large Lakeland in tackles as well as scoring, with 103 total points. He was the first team all-conference quarterback and made the second team allconference as a linebacker. Chad drew interest from several schools, but playing time was important, and his brother Cole was a big draw. Although Chad was a red-shirt freshman in 2008, he watched his brother Cole make key plays at the starting left-corner position, which helped UMD to their first-ever national title. – Marty Seeger
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al champion going to Madison. She was the only undefeated player in the state competition. Kothlow finished at state in the top eight. She won her first two rounds, but fell to No. 1 seeded Caroline Starck from Big Foot/Williams Bay. After being defeated by Starck, Kothlow also fell to Maria Koval of Notre Dame in three sets. No. 1 doubles team, Alesa Paulsen and Elizabeth Ebensperger, were the other two to make the trip to Madison. This was their second year playing as a doubles team together. Their goal at state was to win their first match. Even though that didn’t happen, they were happy for the experience their senior year. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Pirates softball snags 200th win The Grantsburg Pirates softball team had another successful season during 2008 under coach Don Bjelland. During the season, the team marked their 200th win. They also found themselves conference champions and regional champions for another year. On Thursday, May 8, the Pirates shut out St. Croix Falls, 2-0, to make the program’s 200th-win milestone. It also helped secure the conference championship title with a perfect 10-0 conference record. After this accomplishment, Grantsburg went on to win many more games, including the wins leading up to the regional championship. The Pirates took the regional title over St. Croix Central, 2-1. Spring Valley was Grantsburg’s first
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Cole Strilzuk made key plays at the starting left-corner position of the UMD Bulldog football team in 2008. – Photo by Brett Groehler UMD Athletics opponent in sectionals in Arcadia. Spring Valley was another victim to the Pirates, Grantsburg winning, 4-1. Park Falls won the sectional championship title over the Pirates, 12-0. They ended their season with an 18-1 record. The Grantsburg team is expected to be strong for years to come. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Webster boys track second at state In 2008, the Tiger boys track team took second at the state meet in La Crosse, Friday and Saturday, May 30 and 31. The team scored a total of 42 points. They were just six points behind the winning team Stratford’s 48 points. “I was very thrilled with the results and I felt blessed to have had the privilege to work with such a fine group of athletes,” head coach Jeff Postler said. Postler also recognized the many
coaches who helped the team to victory. “Without them we would have never been able to make this dream possible,” he said. Peter Walsh won gold in two events, the 1,600-meter and the 3,200-meter runs. The 4x800-meter and the 4x400meter teams both broke school records. Both relay teams took second place. “We were undefeated up until the state meet and there we were runnersup,” Postler said. “What a blessing!” – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Unity/Luck tennis sends three to state Taking third at sectionals was a great ending for the Unity/Luck tennis team, but one individual and one team were sent to Madison to compete at state. No. 1 singles player, Stephanie Kothlow, was undefeated as the section-
Saints golf team goes to state It was a sloppy day for golf for the Saints girls golf team on Oct. 7, but they made their way to the top to win the sectional championship trophy, and another trip to state in Madison. It was Coach Jeff Benoy’s sixth trip to the state tournament in his nine years of coaching. In the previous year the Saints found themselves in a similar situation at the sectional tournament. It was a rainy day that was also shortened to just nine holes. Although they sent two individuals, they missed sending the entire team to state by just one stroke. In 2008 it was a back-and-forth battle with Baldwin-Woodville, but the Saints beat them out this year by two strokes, 178 to 180. Senior Jenny Benoy was the individual sectional champion, and also set the nine-hole school record by one stroke, a 36, which was previously held by Benoy, Marissa Campeau and Brenna Martens. The Saints finished in fifth place overall at the state tournament. – Marty Seeger
Alesa Paulsen, Stephanie Kothlow and Elizabeth Ebensperger all made it to state during the tennis year. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld The Webster track team took second in La Crosse during the state competition of 2008. – Photo by John Reed
The Pirate softball team were regional champions and made it to sectionals during the 2008 season. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld
The Saints girls golf team traveled to Madison for the state meet, where they took fifth overall. – Photo submitted
PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
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Community rallies for former Frederic athletes Local communities were brought together this summer in order to help two former Frederic athletes face brain surgery. Marty Niles was rushed to Regions Hospital in April, where he had to have emergency brain surgery to remove a mass that had formed on his brain stem. Niles has since endured more surgeries and chemotherapy after cancer was discovered. He remains in the Twin Cities in the hospital. The boys cross-country team won the Division 3 state title for the first time during the 2008 season. – Photo by Sherill Summer
Marty Niles
Brody Measner
In June, Niles’ classmate, teammate and friend Brody Measner discovered he also would go through surgery. Measner had a tumor growing on his right ear nerve, which was pushing on his brain. It was not connected to his brain, but the doctors needed to perform brain surgery in order to remove the tumor. Measner’s surgery was successful and he is home. Both of the athletes’ families held benefits where many members of several communities showed their support. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Tigers bring home cross-country title It was a shock to many people in the Siren and Webster communities to hear that head Webster cross-country coach Jim Muus had suffered a stroke in late June. As he began getting back on the road to recovery, the Webster cross-country team began gearing up for what eventually became their first-ever Division 3 cross-
country title. It was the schools first championship in any sport in 21 years. “It just blows me away that we won the whole darn thing,” said coach Roy Ward, who was placed into the lead coaching role while Muus went through the recovery process. But Muus was there for every meet of the season in support of the Tigers team. “I’ve told him that this season’s really for him, and I was lucky enough to be the substitute head coach, but I’ve always called myself a co-head coach…to me, Jim is my coach,” said Ward. Among those on the Webster boys team were Jack Taylor, Quentin Johnson, Joey Erickson, Bryan Krause, Nick Krinkie, Devin Greene and Chaz Heinz. – Marty Seeger
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Pirate volleyball brings home silver Coach Bill Morrin and his team made their ninth trip to state, during the 2008 season. They came back with silver this season, after a loss in the championship game to Wisconsin Heights. “They definitely deserved to be state champions,” Morrin said of Wisconsin Heights. “They were very, very good.” Morrin and the Pirates may not have
won state, but they accomplished other landmarks to remember during the season. The team has now been conference champions under the direction of Morrin for the past 20 consecutive years. The team held a program, inviting all of the Grantsburg volleyball alumni to celebrate the 20th season of conference championships. “It was a very emotional evening,” Morrin said. “It was really cool to see those guys.” After receiving their 20th conference title, the Pirates went on to win their 15th-consecutive regional title. They defeated Colfax in three games to accomplish this. Grantsburg also had earned the sectional championship. They ended their season 36-0. With many young players, the Pirates look to have a similar season in 2009. – Brenda Sommerfeld
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Luck Cardinals end 35-year wait It was a memorable run for the Luck Cardinal boys basketball team in 2008, and one they won’t soon forget. It had been 35 years since the schools last state tournament appearance, and what an exciting road it was for the team, fans and community of Luck. The team went 11-1 in the conference and tied with Webster for the conference championship, and finished the
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season 23-3. Their storied playoff run included a 79-29 crushing over Weyerhaeuser and a 59-33 win over Turtle Lake in the second round. The Cardinals won by a free throw in overtime against Clayton for the regional crown, before defeating Thorp 48-46 and Mellen 45-31 at sectionals in Spooner. The team lost to Suring in Madison, 57-45, in the state semifinals on March 8. Coach Rick Giller was an important part of the last Luck basketball team that made the trip to the state tournament in 1973. Several side stories, such as these, were featured in the Leader during the Cardinals historic state journey. – Marty Seeger
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Kalmoe’s Olympic odyssey The Olympic journey of Megan Kalmoe was first featured in the May 14 edition of The InterCounty Leader. It highlighted how she hadn’t begun rowing until she attended the University of Washington, and later how she took advantage of an invitation to train at the U.S. Rowing National Training Center in Princeton, N.J. From there, it seemed, Kalmoe was on the fast track to success, and soon realized her dream of making it to the summer Olympic games in Beijing, China, along with rowing partner Ellen Tomek. After finding out they made Team USA in early June the duo trained vigorously in the double sculls event throughout the summer before the games began in August. They finished third place in the first race of the Olympic games on Aug. 9, but turned things around in the repechage (a.k.a. second-chance race) on Aug. 11, to earn a spot in the finals. The journey ended on Aug. 16, when they finished fifth overall. “It is always great to be surrounded by so many incredibly talented athletes … and to see everyone performing at such a high level is very inspiring,” Kalmoe said, in one of several interviews before and after the summer games. – Marty Seeger
The Grantsburg Pirates volleyball team brought home the silver from the state competition. – Photo by Priscilla Bauer
Luck boys basketball made it to state for the first time in 35 years during the 2007-08 season. – Photo by Sue Tolan
Megan Kalmoe and her rowing partner, Ellen Tomek, finished fifth overall during the 2008 summer olympics. – Photo submitted
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15
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Saints get the win over Clear Lake basketball team fell to Clayton, 62-31, on Tuesday, Dec. 23. “Their press was great and we never really got started,” coach Jeff Roberts said. “After about the first five minutes we were better.” Roberts said Clayton’s press was one of the best he has seen in a long time. “We were not prepared for their press and that is my fault,” Roberts commented. – Brenda Sommerfeld
Another double-double for Marissa Campeau St. Croix Falls 40, Clear Lake 30 by Marty Seeger ST. CROIX FALLS – There wasn’t much in the way of scoring for the Saints girls basketball team on Tuesday, Dec. 23, but they managed to pull off the win over the Warriors. The Saints were tied after the first quarter and fell 23-19 at the half. Then in the third quarter, the Saints held the Warriors to just two points, and didn’t surrender their lead from that point on. St. Croix Falls was again led by Marissa Campeau, who shot for 16 points, came down with 11 boards and had four steals. Sarah Petznick came up with nine points and had six rebounds, and Amanda Larson also had six rebounds. Clayton 62, Webster 31 CLAYTON – The Webster Tiger girls
Team Clear Lake St. Croix Falls
1 2 3 4 10 13 2 8 10 13 2 8 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A Clear Lake Katie Weiss 1 1 3 1/2 Hallie Steinberger 1/2 Jamie Lee 3 0/2 Jenna Lee 3 Chelcie Steinberger Kristin Wyss 1 3 0/4 Hillary Friendshuh Totals 14 1 2/10
Jenny Benoy, No. 22, goes up for a block against Clear Lake. – Photo by Tammi Milberg
Rose Kopecky looks for an open teammate in an earlier game. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld
St. Croix Falls Sarah Petznick Sharanda Whittaker Jenny Benoy Tashina Martinson Marissa Campeau Amanda Larson Totals
2s 4 2 2 4 1 13
F 33 40 F TP 2 5 2 7 1 1 - 6 2 6 4 2 2 6 13 33
3s FTM/A F TP 4/5 2 9 1 2 2 2 6 1 4 2 2/3 2 16 1/2 2 3 4 7/10 7 40
A packed house GREEN BAY – There’s something to be said about a fan base that can pack a stadium even when the home team has no chance of rumbling into the playoffs. That Marty was the case last Sunday when 70,141 Seeger fans jammed Lambeau Field for the The final game of the season. The Lions, who Bottom had already made hisLine tory with a 0-15 season, extended it to 016 with Green Bay’s 31-21 win. It also ended the Packers five game-losing streak. Packer fans showed no mercy for the Lions from the start, as boos poured onto the field when Detroit first took the field. Boos also continued to fall on the Packers team when the Lions came close to making a comeback by tying the game at 14 apiece. Thankfully, there was a lot more cheering than booing. It was a frustrating season overall for Green Bay, but it ended on a relatively high note, and it can’t be easy beating a winless team, as weird as that sounds. Heck, the Vikings nearly punted away their game against the Lions when they traveled to Detroit. For now, Packer fans will have to
The Packers celebrated a touchdown reception by John Kuhn in the fourth quarter. spend this Sunday rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles when they go up against the Vikings, which begins at 3:30 p.m. Not even the Packer fans who have a love affair with Brett Favre will be able to enjoy another game, which might have been fun had the Jets made the playoffs. But more importantly, it would have meant a better draft pick for the Packers for when that time comes. The Packers should be a different
A view of the Lambeau Field parking lot prior to the game versus the Lions. – Photos by Marty Seeger
Joe Heller A quality hat constructed by one of several creative Packer fans. team next year, and thankfully they left the season with a win. It might have been a tough situation walking out of Lambeau Field with a Packer loss, but it was probably far more difficult to be a Lions fan walking from the stadium last Sunday. Several Lions fans were at the game, and with minutes left, and Packer fans chanting the words “0-16, 0-16, 016,” you couldn’t help but to feel somewhat sorry for them. Two fans left with bags over their heads, and one sported a noose around his neck, with the rope held high as he walked out of
the stadium. For me it was a chance to see historic Lambeau Field, and the worst-ever team in NFL history. It was also an opportunity to see my first-ever Packer win in person. I have a 1-4 record in games I’ve been fortunate enough to attend. Perhaps it wiped away the jinx I’ve had on them from the past three games, and next year will be a much different scenario. Until then, go Eagles.
PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
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Dragons hang tight with Drummond scored nine points and Hall and Andrew Brown added seven.
Saints march past Lakers on Tuesday
St. Croix Falls 62, Clear Lake 25 ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints boys basketball team won easily over Clear Lake on Tuesday, Dec. 23, with Gus Koecher and Matt Vold leading the scoring category with 12 points apiece. Vold’s 12 points all came from 3-point range. Ryan Larson had 10 points and Cory Gebhard had seven, with Kyle Christensen and Austin Whittenberger adding six points apiece. The Saints held Clear Lake to under 10 points in each of the four quarters and just two points in the first quarter. Both the Saints boys and girls teams will host their next game against Siren on Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Drummond 47, Siren 42 by Brenda Sommerfeld SIREN – The Dragon boys kept another game close throughout, until the final minutes when Drummond prevailed with a 47-42 win. “We just got killed on the boards,” coach Jon Ruud said. “It was pretty frustrating because they were more physical than us. ” “I’ve already heard one coach who came and watched us play tell a person from Siren that Siren is not a very physical team and they allow other teams to push them around,” Ruud continued. “That says it all.” In the first quarter, Siren was up by three points, 13-10. Point guard Brennen Team Drummond Siren
1 2 3 4 10 14 13 10 13 10 8 11 Individual Statistics Drummond 2s 3s FTM/A Jacob Mott 0/1 Cole Dechant 4 2 4/11 Greg Jarecki Brian Best 3 5 Paul Walters 1 2 5/7 Doug Wickingson Zach Lane 1 0/5 16 2 9/24 Totals Siren Christian Hall Elijah Hinze Luke Bollant Charlie Brown Vince Nasman Brennen Moose Andrew Brown Totals
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2s 2 2 1 4 1 3 14
F 4 2 3 5 5 2 21
TP 8 8 6 10 13 2 47
3s FTM/A F TP 3/6 5 7 1 2/4 2 9 3/4 5 5 1/4 2 9 1/2 4 1 1 2 1/3 5 7 1 11/23 25 42
A R E A Hacker’s Lanes
F 47 42
Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: Mark’s Girls 72, Chippewa Checks 66, Sandbaggers 64, Spare-Us 61, The Gutter Busters 57, Hole in the Wall 48, Gold Rush 41, Hot Shots 37. Women’s games: Gail Linke (MG) 226, Barb Loomis (SU) 189, Edla Meyer (SB) 180. Women’s series: Gail Linke (MG) 564, Edla Meyer (SB) 497, Barb Loomis (SU) 459. Men’s games: Rick Benjamin (CC) 201, Mark Loomis (MG) 193, Scott Morrison (GR) 191. Men’s series: Rick Benjamin (CC) 562, Scott Morrison (GR) 533, Chuck Moyer (SB) 510. Team games: Sandbaggers 851, Mark’s Girls 834, Spare-Us 806. Team series: Sandbaggers 2476, Mark’s Girls 2413, Gold Rush 2327. Games 50 or more above average: Gail Linke (+50); Darryl Marek (+52); Barb Loomis (+63). Splits converted: 3-10: Rick Benjamin. 2-7: Edla Meyer. 5-10: Chuck Moyer. Monday Afternoon Seniors Standings: Bears 4, Swans 4, Eagles 3, Cardinals 3, Badgers 1, Nite Hawks 0, Zebras 0, Bye 0. Women’s games: JoAnn Tyler 202, Lila Larson 183, Nancy Morten & Thelma Hendricks 169. Women’s series: Lila Larson 477, JoAnn Tyler 473, Nancy Morten 445. Men’s games: Roger Messer 197, Chuck Moyer and Tom Johnson 181. Men’s series: Roger Messer 554, Chuck Moy 481, Dick Coen 479. Team games: Eagles 647, Bears 628, Cardinals 625. Team series: Eagles 1854, Nite Hawks 1823, Bears 1775. Monday Night Ladies Standings: Mane Attractions 7, The Bottle Shop 5, AnchorBank 5, House of Wood 5, Hacker’s Lanes 2, Miller’s Chicks 2, Thrivent Financial 2, Bye 0. Individual games: Jennifer Renfroe (MC) 209, Ramona Renfroe (MC) 192, Robin Lindvall (BS) 184. Individual series: Nancy Anderson (HL) 511, Ramona Renfroe (MC) 507, Sandy Hacker (HL) 486. Team games: Hacker’s Lanes 681, Miller’s Chicks 603, House of Wood 591. Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 1876, Miller’s Chicks 1752, House of Wood 1692.
Siren’s Luke Bollant goes up for a shot over a Drummond player. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld
Saints Gus Koecher goes up against a Clear Lake player while on defense. – Photo by Tammi Milberg
Moose came out in the first with an ankle injury, putting the Dragons at a disadvantage. “I think the injury to Brennen right away hurt,” Ruud commented. Despite Moose’s absence, at halftime Siren was only one-point behind Drummond, 24-23. But by the end of the third quarter, the Dragons fell further behind, 37-29. “We don’t box out,” Ruud said. “That’s my fault. We will spend a lot of time on rebounding.” There were three minutes in the fourth period when Ruud’s players were able to tie up the game, 40-40, with a field goal by Murdock Smith.
The Dragons were called on several fouls on the floor, which put them in double bonus and placed Drummond on the free throw line. Drummond was able to pull past Siren with free throws. Drummond only scored one field goal in the fourth quarter, the other eight points were free throws. Drummond totaled nine of 25 free throws during the game. Three of the Dragons fouled out during the fourth quarter, Andrew Brown, Christian Hall and Luke Bollant. The Siren team, itself, was put to the free throw line 23 times. They hit 11 of them. Elijah Hinze and Charlie Brown each
B O W L I N G Tuesday Classic Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 139.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 136.5, Great Northern Outdoors 134, Bottle Shop 124, Olsen & Son 103.5, SCVH 78, Reliables 59, Pioneer Bar 57.5. Individual games: Ron Skow 264, Don Hughes 258, Ken Tonsager 238. Individual series: Don Hughes 671, Ken Tonsager 671, Ron Skow 656. Team games: Great Northern Outdoors 694, Hacker’s Lanes 655, Yellow Lake Lodge 633. Team series: Yellow Lake Lodge 1882, Great Northern Outdoors 1864, Hacker’s Lanes 1864. Tuesday Late Standings: Joe Blow 40, Red Rollers 35, LCR 19, Terminators 19, Cushing Rollers 18, Bye 0. Individual games: Rick Hach 246, Ron Pitts & Wesley Costa 194. Individual series: Rick Hach 651, Ron Pitts 515, Wesley Costa 493. Team games: Joe Blow 538, Red Rollers 514, Terminators 474. Team series: Joe Blow 1533, Red Rollers 1372, Terminators 1296. Thursday Early Men’s (12/11/08) Standings: Hell Raisers 63, Full Timers 58.5, Wikstrom Construction 54, Frontier Trails 52, Grindell Law Offices 49.5, KWood 41, Fab Four 37, Bye 9. Individual games: Ed Bitler (KW) 244, Brian McBroom (FuT) 236, Joshua Henry (FuT) 224. Individual series: Ed Bitler (K-W) 616, Joshua Henry (FuT) 594, Don McKinney (FF) 571. Team games: Full Timers 568, Fab Four 567, K-Wood 534. Team series: Fab Four 1604, Full Timers 1568, K-Wood 1514. Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Ed Bitler 6x = 244; Brian McBroom 5x = 236; Joshua Henry 5x = 224. Games 50 or more above average: Brandon Ayd (+56). Splits converted: 2-7: Brian McBroom 2x, Chuck Hahr, Tim Pederson, Don McKinney. 3-10: Chuck Hahr. 5-7: Jason Pearson. 5-6-10: Blake Douglas. 2-5-7: Chuck Hahr. Thursday Early Men’s (12/18/08) Standings: Hell Raisers 68, Full Timers 66.5, Wikstrom Construction 63, Grindell Law Offices 56.5, Frontier Trails 54, Fab Four 50, K-Wood 47, Bye 9. Individual games: Don McKinney (FF) 257, Jim Wikstrom (WC) 234, Dan Carlson (FF) 232.
Individual series: Don McKinney (FF) 706, Dennis Lieder (FT) 630, Ed Bitler (KW) 629. Team games: Fab Four 650, Grindell Law Offices 579, Full Timers 578. Team series: Fab Four 1894, Full Timers 1657, Grindell Law Offices 1581. Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Dennis Lieder = 232; Jim Wikstrom = 234; Dan Carlson = 232; Don McKinney = 257; Tim Peterson = 225. Games 50 or more above average: Don McKinney (+56); Dennis Lieder (+59); Dan Carlson (+70). Splits converted: 4-7: Jeremy Ones. 45: Jeremy Ones. 5-6: Marlin Larson. 3-710: Laryn Larson. 6-7-10: Brian McBroom. 3-10: Ed Bitler. Friday Night Ladies (12/19/08) Standings: Pioneer Bar 84, Frederic Design & Promotion 71.5, Junque Art 53, The Leader 52, Meyer’s Plus 49.5, Hole in the Wall 49.5, The Dozers 45, Skol Bar 43.5. Individual games: Missy Hernandez 202, Gail Linke & Dorothy Barfknecht 201. Individual series: Linda O’Donnell 551, Dorothy Barfknecht 549, Gail Linke 545. Team games: Meyer’s Plus 670, Skol Bar 669, Junque Art 665. Team series: Junque Art 1938, Skol Bar 1933, Meyer’s Plus 1902. Games 50 or more above average: Linda O’Donnell. Splits converted: 4-10: Mary Young. 67: Karen Carlson. Friday Night Ladies (12/26/08) Standings: Junque Art 7, Hole in the Wall 5, Frederic Design & Promotion 4, The Leader 4, Meyer’s Plus 3, The Dozers 3, Skol Bar 2, Pioneer Bar 0. Individual games: Karen Carlson 235,
1 2 3 4 20 13 13 16 2 6 8 9 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A Clear Lake 1 Matt O’Connell Cody Lien 4 1/2 1 1 2/6 Sterling Marlett Mitch Warner 1 2/4 1 Brian Friendshuh 1/2 Travis Wickboldt Totals 16 3 6/14 Team Clear Lake St. Croix Falls
St. Croix Falls Matt Vold Nick Johnson Sam Schmidt Ben Anderson Marcus Campbell Cory Gebhard Zach Christenson Gus Koecher Ryan Larson Kyle Christensen Austin Whittenberger Totals
2s 1 1 2 1 5 4 3 3 20
F 62 25 F TP 3 2 - 9 1 7 3 4 2 2 3 1 12 25
3s FTM/A F TP 4 1 12 - 2 2 1 - 3 - 2 3/4 - 7 1 2 2/2 1 12 2/3 2 10 1 6 2 6 5 7/9 7 62
R E S U L T S Missy Hernandez 219, Cara Holicky 210. Individual series: Karen Carlson 597, Missy Hernandez 544, Gail Linke 529. Team games: Skol Bar 686, Junque Art 662, Hole in the Wall 644. Team series: Skol Bar 1958, Junque Art 1912, Meyer’s Plus 1868. Games 50 or more above average: Missy Hernandez. Splits converted: 4-7-10: Myrna Magnuson. 5-10: Judy Bennett. 4-5-10: Dorothy Barfknecht. 4-6-7-9-10: Julie Young. 5-7: Gail Linke. Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Skowl 38, Generation III 36, Dead Eyes 36, CC Lupinos 34, Schmidt House 4 29, Handicaps 28, GDB 26, Lakers 25. Men’s games: Maynard Stevens (GE) 264, Reed Stevens (GE) 258, Ron Skow (SK) 256. Men’s series: Reed Stevens 698, Maynard Stevens 662, Ron Skow 658. Women’s games: Deb Ingram (SK) 221 & 218, Kathy Java (La) 194. Women’s series: Deb Ingram (SK) 621, Kathy Java (La) 488, Heidi Skow 471. Team games: Skowl 824, Generation III 794, Skowl 793. Team series: Skowl 2268, Generation III 2263, Lakers 1989.
McKenzie Lanes
Monday Night Madness Standings: Peper Tire & Align. 11, McKenzie Lanes 10, Alleycats 10, Pepie’s Gals 9, Ole’s Country Market 8, Scottay’s Trucking 8, Mishaps 6, Bye 2. Individual games: Melanie Erickson 201, Debbie Swanson 201, Tammy Beckwith 171. Individual series: Debbie Swanson 552, Melanie Erickson 452, Julia Delougherty 450. Team games: (Handicap scores) Ole’s Country Market 614, Mishaps 597, Scottay’s Trucking 594. Team series: (Handicap scores) Mishaps 1720, Ole’s Country Market 1707, McKenzie Lanes 1675. Monday Night Ladies Standings: Milltown Appl. 83, Edina Divas 74, McKenzie Lanes 67.5, Sam’s Carpentry 67, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 62.5, Metal Products 51.5, Frederic Truck & Tractor 33.5, Bye 38. Individual games: Jane Smith 214, Shirley Wilson 192, Kelley Hill 191. Individual series: Jane Smith 515, Brenda Lehmann 510, Shirley Wilson
494. Team games: (Handicap score) McKenzie Lanes 1019. Team series: (Handicap score) Sam’s Carpentry 2790. Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: Lane Crashers 61, Kluge 52, Mom’s Boys 51, Wild Boys 50.5, Lemon Heads 48, Jim’s Flooring 31.5. Women’s games: Julie Delougherty 187, Brenda Lehmann 157, Linda Larson 141. Women’s series: Julie Delougherty 502, Brenda Lehmann 458, Linda Larson 386. Men’s games: Vic Garbow 215, Jeff Lehmann 199, Jim Lammert 185. Men’s series: Jeff Lehmann 547, Jim Coen 515, Vic Garbow 480. Team games: Wild Boys 508. Team series: Lemon Heads 1379. Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Glass Bar 90.5, Hack’s Pub 85, Greatland Transportation 84.5, NelLo-Hill Farm 83.5, Steve’s Appliance 81, Dream Lawn 77.5, McKenzie Lanes 71, The Dugout 66. Individual games: Dick Wallis 269, Roy P. Price 269, Bob Rettler 257. Individual series: Bob Rettler 726, Dick Wallis 694, Roy P. Price 692. Team games: (Handicap scores) Greatland Trans. 1273, Glass Bar 1220, Dream Lawn 1169. Team series: (Handicap scores) Glass Bar 3490, Greatland Trans. 3418, Hack’s Pub 3412. Saturday Night Mixed Doubles Standings: Eureka Bombers 11, Ten Pin Titans 10, Pin Busters 10, Fisk Trucking 10, Roller Coasters 7, Happy Campers 7, Tiger Express 7, The In-Laws 6. Women’s games: Patti Katzmark 204, Diane Fisk 184, Dixie Welling 166. Women’s series: Diane Fisk 513, Patti Katzmark 480, Kim Delaney 464. Men’s games: Roger Fisk 236, Ervin Lehmann 230, Gene Braund 228. Men’s series: Gene Braund 622, Gordy Johnson 603, Roger Fisk 601. Team games: (Handicap scores) Roller Coasters 890, Pin Busters 877, Eureka Bombers 860. Team series: (Handicap scores) Ten Pin Titans 2519, Eureka Bombers 2460, Roller Coaster & Pin Busters 2444.
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17
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Lady Blizzard keeps winning streak alive Played best period this season Lady Blizzard 3, Moose Lake 2 by Brenda Sommerfeld GRANTSBURG – The Lady Blizzard played Moose Lake, Minn., on Tuesday, Dec. 23, in the Grantsburg arena. Moose Lake was the fifth consecutive victim of the Lady Blizzard, when they took them down, 3-2. “It was nice to keep our winning streak alive,” said coach Tim Bennett.
Alex Lonetti scored two of the Lady Blizzard’s three goals during their game against Moose Lake. Team Moose Lake Lady Blizzard
Tanesha Carlson gets a stick on the puck while racing down the ice against a Moose Lake opponent. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld
Cody Crawford scored her first goal of the season against the Moose Lake Rebels on Tuesday, Dec. 23.
“The girls came out tonight and played their best period of hockey this year.” The Lady Blizzard came together in the first period, skating, passing and shooting a really good game. “It was fun to watch, the girls are really picking up our systems,” Bennett commented. Two of the Lady Blizzard’s three goals were scored in the first period. Cody Crawford made her first goal of the season from right in front of the net on a pass from Randi Hunter. Alex Lonetti followed with a goal, being assisted by line mates Crawford and Brittani Hopkins. Lonetti made the Lady Blizzard’s third goal halfway into the second period. She went end for end all alone and put the puck past Moose Lake’s goalie.
LEADER S P O R T S SCOREBOARD GIRLS BASKETBALL
West Lakeland Conference Standings
Team Siren St. Croix Falls Frederic Luck Unity Webster Grantsburg
Scores
Conf. 3-0 4-0 2-2 1-2 1-2 1-3 0-3
Tuesday, Dec. 23 St. Croix Falls 40, Clear Lake 33 Clayton 62, Webster 31
Upcoming
Tuesday, Jan. 6 6 p.m. Webster at Grantsburg Unity at Luck Solon Springs at Frederic 7:30 p.m. Siren at St. Croix Falls
GIRLS HOCKEY Standings
Lady Blizzard
Scores
5-1-2
Tuesday, Dec. 23 Lady Blizzard 3, Moose Lake, Minn., 2
Upcoming
Saturday, Jan. 3 1 p.m. Ashland at Siren Tuesday, Jan. 6 7 p.m. New Richmond at Grantsburg
GYMNASTICS Upcoming
Thursday, Jan. 8 6:30 p.m. Rush City, Minn. at Grantsburg
WRESTLING Upcoming
Thursday, Jan. 8 7 p.m. Clear Lake at St. Croix Falls Turtle Lake at Luck
Overall 7-0 6-1 5-3 3-3 1-5 2-5 0-7
BOYS BASKETBALL
West Lakeland Conference Standings
Team Luck Grantsburg Webster Siren St. Croix Falls Frederic Unity
Scores
Conf. 3-0 2-0 2-1 1-1 1-2 0-3 0-2
Tuesday, Dec. 23 St. Croix Falls 62, Clear Lake 27 Monday, Dec. 29 Drummond 47, Siren 42
Upcoming
Tuesday, Jan. 6 6 p.m. Siren at St. Croix Falls 7:30 p.m. Webster at Grantsburg Unity at Luck Shell Lake at Frederic
BOYS HOCKEY Standings
Amery/Unity Blizzard
Upcoming
6-2 2-6
Tuesday, Jan. 6 7 p.m. Blizzard at Somerset
WOMEN’S POOL LEAGUE Team Greg's Gals Wise Guys Glass Bar Hack's Blacksmith Shop JJ's I Suzy Q's JJ's II Kassel Tap Shafer's
Score 55 48 45 42 41 40 38 35 33 28
Overall 7-0 6-0 2-3 2-4 3-2 2-3 0-5
Moose Lake picked up their game in the third period, knocking in two past Lady Blizzard goalie Tiffany Meyer. “It made for an interesting third period,” Bennett said. “We were tired in the third and Moose Lake took advantage of it. Lucky we were able to hold on for the win.” Meyer had another nice game for the Lady Blizzard, keeping 33 shots from making it into the net. The Lady Blizzard will play Ashland in Siren on Saturday, Jan. 3, at 1 p.m.
PREPS
1 2
2 1
3 2 -
F 2 3
Scoring (Time remaining) First Period – 1 LB Cody Crawford (Randi Hunter) 15:31; 2 LB Alex Lonetti (Cody Crawford, Brittani Hopkins) 9:37. Second Period – 3 LB Alex Lonetti 10:13. Third Period – 1 ML Jackie Granfers (Allie Belanger) 13:05; 2 ML Jackie Granfers 9:56. Goalies Saves – ML K.K. Greene (15); LB Tiffany Meyer (33)
Youth Hockey Grantsburg/Burnett U14 girls Sunday, Dec. 28
Grantsburg 4, Altoona 4 (Game 1)
Goals: Kassie Lien (2), Paige Johnson, Sam O’Brien. Assists: Ashley Dietmeier, Kassie Lien. Saves: Hope Tucker (18)
Grantsburg 4, Altoona 4 (Game 2)
Goals: Kassie Lien, Paige Johnson, Sam O’Brien, Ashley Dietmeier. Assists: Ashley Dietmeier, Laura Houtari. Saves: Hope Tucker (16)
OF THE
WEEK
NAME: Matt Vold SCHOOL: St. Croix Falls YEAR: Junior COMMENTS: Junior Saint Matt Vold stepped up over Clear Lake on Tuesday, Dec. 23, in a nonconference game against the Clear Lake Warriors. Vold had a pair of 3-pointers in the first half, and in the second half for 12 points. Matt Vold The Saints will get back into basketball action when they host Siren on Tuesday, Jan. 6. – Marty Seeger
NAME: Alex Lonetti SCHOOL: Frederic YEAR: Junior COMMENTS: Alex Lonetti scored two of the Lady Blizzard’s three goals on Tuesday night against Moose Lake, Minn. One goal was made on a break away from one end of the ice to the other. Lonetti has knocked in goals in Alex Lonetti several of the Lady Blizzard’s games. She also hit in two against Lakeland on Friday, Dec. 19. – Brenda Sommerfeld
Our minimalist hippie friend has returned from his annual Christmas cross-country skiing vacation and hopes to improve from where he left off on Dec. 17. His 9-4 record that week dropped his basketball season mark to 41-11, or 79 percent. This week he forecasts a relatively sparse slate of games.
battle. Shell Lake 44 Frederic 39—The Lakers win this low-scoring affair. Luck 69 Unity 36—Once again, the Cards barely break a sweat.
The Swami THE SWAMI
PREDICTS
This week’s predictions: Boys games: Grantsburg 63 Webster 39—The Pirates are still waiting for their first real test. St. Croix Falls 52 Siren 39—The youthful Dragons give the Saints a
Girls games: Webster 52 Grantsburg 26—The Tigers easily handle the Pirates. Frederic 50 Solon Springs 39—Not much is known about the Eagles, so what the heck—Frederic wins. Luck 43 Unity 34— Or will Luck coach Marty Messar allow Unity’s cagey mentor Chuck Holicky to catch him off guard yet again? Siren 43 St. Croix Falls 42—This one will go right down to the wire. If the Dragons win it, they will be a lock for another conference title. The Swami answers all e-mails and can be reached at predictionking @yahoo.com
PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
O UTDOORS INTER! COUNTY LEADER
ATVs • BIRDING • BOATING • CAMPING • FISHING • HIKING • HUNTING • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
The history of Old Blue
There are definitely a variety of tip-ups in my ice-fishing arsenal, but none have quite as much character as my old Beaver Dam tip-ups that collected dust in my Marty basement growing up. My Dad wasn’t Seeger big on ice fishing unless the weather was warmer, and The when he did, it was Bottom mostly for panfish, so Line we didn’t use them all that often. I had been reluctant at first to use the older tip-ups, but their looks were kind of tough to ignore, and it saved money from having to go out and purchase a new one. I’m glad I started using them because almost all of them are still in working order today, and still catch fish. Most of the tip-ups are just plain old, cracked or worn down from years of use, and all are missing the essential bright red flag. On one of my last fishing outings, I ran into a fellow angler who couldn’t help but comment on a stack of three tip-ups I brought out onto the ice that day. “Boy, those are some old tip-ups,” he said, and admitted to owning a few stashed away in the basement of his home. Some of my tip-ups are known fish slayers, and some even have a surname to go with it. I’m sure there are several other anglers out there who have tipups designated as lucky, or have a unique name to go with them as well. For several years, Old Blue was the fish slaying tip-up in my bucket. The wood literally had a bluish hue, and the flag was cut from an old blue T-shirt that my dad had worn. The name of its previous owner was carved deep into the wood with a knife, probably to protect him in the event that another
angler might try to lay claim to it. As for the blue flag, Dad claimed it was easier to see against the snow and ice. The tip-up had a lot of character, and it may have been more fitting in a glass case somewhere in the Smithsonian Museum, along with other ancient angling artifacts, if such a thing even exists. It wasn’t until 1999, that my friend, Willy, tragically ended its fish harvesting abilities when he ran it over with his truck. For me it was a pretty sad night on the ice, simply because it was a legend among all other tip-ups in our ice-fishing fraternity. Or maybe the legend only existed in my mind simply because I bragged about it so much. I’ve pondered the thought that my friend may have done it on purpose because he was jealous. To this day Willy laughs as though it was one of the funniest things he’d ever seen, but I didn’t laugh quite as much. We’re still good friends, but I don’t think I ever forgave him, and I razz him about it just about every time we go ice fishing. Looking back, it was probably my fault anyway, and maybe it wasn’t marked well enough for him to see, but one thing for sure was that Old Blue was a fish-catching machine. On several occasions it was ridiculed for its unusual look, and uncanny ability to sit in the ice hole for several hours at a time without once going up. Not even a faulty minnow trip could be seen on days when it seemed all the other tip-ups on the lake sprang into action. But then, just as everyone was busy ripping on my poor tip-up fishing skills (if there are tip-up fishing skills) a dark blue flag would flap lazily in the wind, and, on more than one occasion, catch the largest fish of the day. Fishing hasn’t been quite the same since Old Blue was crushed by a truck, but there’s still a few old tip-ups lying around in the ice bucket at home. One of them even has a unique red and white chunk of cloth for a flag, which gives it its own unique flare similar to what Old Blue had. It doesn’t seem to have the same fish-catching qualities, but it’s off to a pretty good start. There are several candidates out
The latest edition to all of my ice fishing equipment, complete with an old rag for a flag. – Photos by Marty Seeger
A 26-inch pike caught on an old craggy-looking tip-up. there in the tip-up world fully capable of catching fish, but for some odd coincidence, and for no good reason, the old, craggy-looking ones seemed to catch the biggest and best fish. I did receive a shiny and new tip-up for
Christmas this year, and while I’ll be using that one in almost every outing, you can bet that the first one set will be Old Blue Two, or Old Craggily Board, or something like that. I’m still perfecting a nickname.
Hunters donate 6,500 deer to help feed the hungry MADISON –The generosity of Wisconsin deer hunters is evident again this year as numbers come in from meat processors participating in the venison donation program, according to Department of Natural Resources Secretary Matt Frank. Preliminary reports from the processors count more than 6,500 deer donated to date. All deer from the CWD zone are tested for presence of the disease before processing. “This is a great program that helps needy families put high quality protein on the family table – and we know that meat is deeply appreciated,” said DNR Secretary Matt Frank. “We really thank hunters who have taken the time and effort to contribute deer to this program. The need continues and I urge hunters to consider bagging a deer for food pantries during the late bow season or holiday hunts.” Most deer seasons are now complete but some deer are still expected to be donated from the just completed statewide antlerless gun hunt, the Dec.
24 – Jan. 4 holiday firearm season in the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Zone and the late archery season which also ends Jan. 4. Since the 2000 fall hunting season, hunters have donated more than 68,000 deer, which have provided more than 3 million pounds of ground venison to needy families. This year, 123 participating meat processors in 55 counties contributed to the effort. There is no cost to the hunter beyond transporting the registered deer to the processor. A large network of volunteers including sports groups, church groups, civic organizations and food pantry staff work together to distribute the meat from the processor to the food pantries. Department of Natural Resources staff, USDA - Wildlife Services staff and county staff help administer the program. In non-CWD zones, processing costs are paid for by revenues from the sale of bonus antlerless deer harvest permits and a surcharge on deer hunting licenses. In the CWD zone bonus permit sales and the surcharge are supplemented by
dollars raised through a coalition of community organizations called Target Hunger. The coalition covers a portion of the processing costs and handles distribution of venison. Hunt For The Hungry in northeast Wisconsin, is also a strong partner in the Wisconsin Deer Donation 2008 program. Wildlife officials say it won’t be until the end of all hunting seasons before final deer harvest numbers are known, and the same goes for donations. Preliminary kill numbers from the recently completed nine-day gun deer hunt are down from the previous couple of years and that may have an impact on the number of donations. There is also speculation that with the economic downturn, hunters may be keeping more meat for their own use. Lead in Venison Testing of hunter-harvested venison in several states has revealed the presence of very fine particles of lead in venison harvested with lead bullets.
The particles are often too small to be seen and can disperse far from the wound channel. Although lead in venison does not rival lead paint in older homes as a health risk for the public, the risk is not low enough to ignore. Children under 6 years of age and pregnant women are at the greatest risk from lead exposure. The amount of lead found in a small percentage of venison samples suggest that long term effects of lead consumption could occur in people who regularly eat venison shot with lead ammunition. State health experts say however, that there is currently no known evidence linking human consumption of venison to lead poisoning. More information on lead in venison is available on the DNR Web site at www.dnr.state.wi.us For more information contact Laurie Fike at 608-267-7974. – from the DNR
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19
Burnett County criminal court Joseph E. Rogers, 21, Webster, battery, four-year probation, restitution to be determined, no abusive contact with victims, no consumption of alcohol, restricted from premises that serve alcohol, complete anger management, alcohol assessment, $188.00; battery, four-year probation, concurrent with other probation, restitution to be determined, no abusive contact with victims, no consumption of alcohol, restricted from premises that serve alcohol, complete anger management, alcohol assessment, $88.00; domestic disorderly
Siren police report Dec. 14: Nicholas Kuehn, Siren, was notified that he will be charged with theft if two PS2 games taken out from Siren Auto Stop are not returned to the store by Jan. 2. William R. Hartzell, 55, Grantsburg, was cited for driving too fast for conditions at 4:45 p.m. on Hwy. 70 and Peterson Road. Dec. 18: The officer on duty responded to a call from Siren School regarding a juvenile who was later to be charged with disorderly conduct. Referral to social services was also to be made. Dec. 24: A four-door Buick Regal was given a citation for illegal parking at 2 a.m. At 2:17 p.m., a Pontiac two-door was issued a citation for illegal parking at Clear Lake Park. Dec. 26: David J. Bina, 56, Grasston, Minn., was cited for speeding on CTH B and Fourth Avenue at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 27: Christy R. Merrill, 24, Siren, was issued a misdemeanor disorderly conduct citation for a domestic incident in the village at 11:56 a.m. A “well-fed” beagle dog found near the Siren Fire station was taken to the humane society shelter at 10:45 p.m. Dec. 28: Paul F. Meade, 39, Hayward, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 70 and Hanson Avenue at 2:53 p.m. Daniel Eugene Durose, 62, New Brighton, Minn., was cited for speeding on Hwy. 70 and Hanson Avenue at 3:33 p.m. James A. Gresko, 56, Cable, was cited for speeding at 3:58 p.m. on Hwy. 70 and Hanson Avenue. Norberto Burciaga Jr., 38, South St. Paul, Minn., was cited for speeding at 7:12 p.m. on Hwy. 70 and Hanson Avenue. Dec. 29: A missing cell phone was found at Siren School. A juvenile has been implicated in the theft. Emily Kriesel, Andover, Minn., did not return a PS2 game taken out from Siren Auto Stop by the required Dec. 29 date. She faces a theft charge.
conduct, four-year probation, concurrent with other probation, 30-day jail sentence, Huber release for employment, restitution for be determined, no abusive contact with victims, no consumption of alcohol, restricted from premises that serve alcohol, complete anger management program, alcohol assessment, $188.00; resisting or obstructing an officer, fouryear probation, concurrent with other probation, no consumption of alcohol, restricted from premises that serve alcohol, alcohol assessment, $88.00; driving ATV while intoxicated – cause
injury, four-year probation, concurrent with other probation, restitution to be determined, no abusive contact with victims, no consumption of alcohol, restricted from premises that serve alcohol, alcohol assessment, $88.00. Andrea F. Monicken, 29, Baldwin, issue worthless check, $250.00. Christopher A. Staples, 21, Webster, obstructing an officer, $309.00. William A. Vos, 70, Sauk Rapids, Minn., speeding, $160.80. Carmen L. Taylor, 23,
Burnett Co. sheriff’s report Accidents Dec. 28: Alan J. Schwartzbauer, 18, Grantsburg, was northbound on Larson Road in Grantsburg Township when Douglas H. Edaburn, 38, Grantsburg, backed into the path of the Schwartzbauer vehicle. Edaburn had just tried to turn into his driveway, but slid past it instead and was backing up to attempt another turn into his driveway. No injuries were reported.
Dec. 28: Natasha L. Baker, 22, Webster, was westbound on Hwy. 70 in LaFollette Township when eastbound Helmi L. Larson, 91, Siren, made a lefthand turn in front of her. Baker was unable to avoid an accident. Larson was issued one citation for failure to yield the right of way. There were no injuries reported.
Employment
The Inter-County Leader: Bringing you the local news for 75 years
Webster, hit and run, one-year probation, 15-day jail sentence, Huber privileges granted, $1,020.00 restitution, $578.00. Ryan Lemon, 16, Grantsburg, entry into building, one-year probation, 40-day jail sentence, Huber release for
employment, restitution to be determined, send letter of apology to victim, may apply for expuction upon completion of probation, $88.00. Coleman B. Ford, 33, Siren, possession of methamphetamine, 11-month jail sentence,
Huber release granted with proof of employment, $20.15 remaining due.
PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
The Inter-County Leader:
Bringing you the local news for 75 years Polk County deaths Robert N. Durow, 77, Dec. 5, 2008, Luck Patrick J. Erickson, 50, Dec. 6, 2008, Stanley Janice M. Malmquist, 81, Dec. 7, 2008, Amery Violet A. Becker, 88, Dec. 7, 2008, Amery Mary L. Holter, 82, Dec. 11, 2008, Amery Marilyn A. Sund, 63, Dec. 11, 2008, St. Croix Falls
Melvin C. Melby, 93, Dec. 12, 2008, Turtle Lake Sidney R. Bjorkman, 77, Dec. 13, 2008, Amery Thelma G. Petersen, 95, Dec. 14, 2008, St. Croix Falls Roy A. Ebel, 90, Dec. 15, 2008, Osceola Muriel Gehrman, 86, Dec. 15, 2008, Turtle Lake Clifford S. Michelsen, 95, Dec. 19, 2008, Osceola.
Polk County marriages Caitlyn M. Donahue, Amery, and Brent A. Dahlberg, Clear Lake, issued Dec. 26, 2008. Tammy L. Gagner, Clayton, and Clinton W. Garst, Denver,
Colo., issued Dec. 26, 2008. Alicia M. Brace, Osceola, and Matthew A. Fisk, St. Croix Falls, issued Dec. 26, 2008.
Notices
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21
PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Notices /Employment
Follow the Leader.
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23
Purity in Motion dance class performs at United Pioneer Home
Angie Chivers leads her youngest dancers to the stage in last Friday’s dance recital at the United Pioneer Home at Luck. Chivers has 82 pupils in her Purity in Motion dance class, from age 3 to 17. This is the seventh year she has directed a recital for the public. “We try to teach them to use their talents for the enjoyment of others, and not as a means for showing off,” Chivers noted. The recital brought smiles and applause from a packed house in the care center’s activities room. – Photos by Gary King
Frederic choir performs at Mall of America
The Frederic Show Choir performed traditional holiday music for shoppers at the Mall of America recently. – Photo submitted
Saturday’s concert will raise funds for Disney World trip
Former choir, swing choir members urged to take part
FREDERIC – Former Frederic High School choir and swing choir members can still be part of in the Saturday, Jan. 3, choir reunion and performance at the high school. Director Greg Heine said a meeting will be held at noon at the 7-12 performance center and rehearsals begin at 1 p.m. for the public performance at 7 p.m. For choir participants there will be a registration fee of $10, which includes a T-shirt, meal and admission to the concert. There will be a dance following the concert at the high school. Proceeds from the concert will help send current
choir members to Disney World this coming April. “Swinging Through the Years,” is the title of the concert. “It is open to all former Frederic High School choir or swing choir members, who are invited to join in the fun and fellowship to create this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for FHS choir members,” noted Heine. The event includes a 5 p.m. dinner with barbecue pork, chips and more – for $5. Tickets to the concert are $5. There will also be numerous gift baskets from Las Vegas, Boston, Hawaii, Minneapolis, Siren, Frederic and other locations, to be given away to the winning ticket holders during the concert. Further information is available by contacting Heine at 715-327-4223, ext. 133 or by e-mailing him at heineg@ frederic.k12.wi.us. – with submitted information
PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Osceola Intermediate School concert
The Osceola Intermediate School performed their winter concert “Snow Fourth-graders sing “Catch My Drift” while doing movements to look like Thursday, Dec. 18. Third-graders at Osceola sang “It Comes Out Snow” Biz” they are snowboarding. during the concert. – Photos by Tammi Milberg
Pictured are Melanie Hall and Britanee Hallen as ice fisherpersons and Griffin Olson as an ice-cream peddler. These and other fifth-graders were actors in the music performance “Snow Biz” at Osceola.
Handmade gift
The Siren Covenant ladies made a very special handmade gift for Pastor Dave Guertin and family. Shown (L to R) is Dave, Seth and Laurel Guertin in front of the quilt. - submitted
Currents N
‘Follow the Leader’
2008: POLK/BURNETT COUNTIES–As the clock winds down for 2008, it is time again to take a look back at the stories and headlines that touched our lives in the past year. The following covers the months of January to June 2008 and is the first part of the two-part Year In Review series. - compiled by Tammi Milberg
January •Steve Wierschem began as the new director for Forts Folle Avoine. •A chimney fire caused extensive damage to a home owned by Sam and Edna Jones of Clam Falls. •Polk County Treasurer Amanda Nissen spent hours correcting and reprinting tax statements after an error in the tax statements that were already mailed out was discovered. •Jane and Steve Cooper, rural Frederic, were proud parents of two Marine Corps graduate sons Sam and Aaron Kackman. •The Polk Counry Tavern League was recognized for donating over $10,000 to Operation Christmas. •Brian and Jean Chryst took over as new owners of the St. Croix Falls Video Vault. •A class reunion was held for the Luck graduating class of 1952. •Dorothy Richard retired after 36 years as an employee for Burnett County including register-in-probate/juvenile clerk. •A car photo that appeared in the Leader Jan. 2, 2008, showing a vehicle recovered from the Long Lake in the summer of 2007 was identified as belonging to Gene Eaton, who showed up for his job of delivering Pioneer Press papers some 40 years ago, only to discover at the end of the day that his car was stolen. •First babies of the New Year were pictured in the Leader with their parents. Polk County’s first baby was Ann Stenberg, born to Rebecca and Steve Stenberg. Burnett County’s first baby was Jason Aronson, born to Katie Clifford and Jeff Aronson. •DNR Forester for 32 years, Neil Ambourn, announced his retirement. •Former Wisconsin Governor from 1978 to
BALLOON RESCUE - Rich Jaworski (front center) was rescued by Siren Fire Department in January after he made an unexpected emergency landing of his hot-air balloon in Big Doctors Lake in Siren. Despite the unexpected landing, Jaworski still earned a distance record for his category of hot-air balloon. – Photo submitted
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 1
O R T H E R N
News and views from the NW Wisconsin community
The local Year in Review Part I: January-June
1982, Lee Sherman Dreyfus, passed away at the age of 81. •The annual stockholders meeting for the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association was held at Hacker’s Lanes in Frederic. •Hills Family Foods in Balsam Lake closed after 19 years. •St. Croix Falls residents had been alerted that they would have two mayoral candidates on the April ballot. •Effie Rowe (Lila) celebrated her 100th birthday at the Frederic Care Center. •First baby of the New Year at Osceola Medical Center, Kylie Winkelman, was born to parents Steven and Amanda Winkelman. •The Polk County Recycling Center was recognized for their continued support of the Adult Development Center. •Andy and Geri Swenson, Taylors Falls, were presented with the Taylors Falls River Valley Stewardship Award for 2007. •Polk County Board Supervisor since 1994 Tom Nilssen, Clear Lake, resigned from the board, citing health reasons. •Grantsburg Schools approved wrestling as a school-sponsored sport. •Bill Janson, member of the BraskFossum-Janke American Legion Post, lost his life battling cancer. •A time of remembrance was held at First Baptist Church in Falun for fallen soldier Joshua Anderson, son of Kevin and Lynn Anderson, Jordan, Minn. •Osceola student Hunter Shira received the Hometown Hero Award in Madison for rescuing four persons from the St. Croix River in July. •Larsen Auto Center in Webster closed after nearly 34 years of business. •Gerald Newville was appointed to fill the seat on the Polk County Board of Supervisors vacated by Tom Nilssen. •A special board meeting for Polk County approved the sale of Golden Age Manor with a 12-11 vote–an unresolved issue that remains in the headlines today. •A fatal shooting at a Burnett County residence took the life of John HE’S STILL ALIVE - Linda Kennedy prayed as she waited to see her son, Keith, after he was found Peach, 29, Webster. •The Burnett County
alive after spending seven days in the Burnett County wilderness after wandering away from the Trade Lake Camp near Grantsburg in early June. Keith was found exactly one week after he disappeared from the camp, just as authorities were getting ready to call off the official search efforts. Linda is shown being comforted by local EMS worker Kim Nelson.- Photo by Priscilla Bauer
LARSEN AUTO IN WEBSTER CLOSES - Terry Larsen, owner of Larsen Auto, confirmed in January that he would be closing his Webster branch, Feb. 1, after 34 years in business there. The cost of duplicating services at branches so close together played a factor, Larsen said. All Webster employees were transferred to the Frederic location. Larsen continues to operate dealerships in Dresser, Amery, Frederic and Spooner. - Photo by Sherill Summer
TRIBE LOOKS TO REJUVENATE FI SHERIES St. Croix Tribe Chairwoman Hazel Hindsley signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Great Lakes Water Institute at the end of 2007, leading the way for the Institute to help the tribe get their fisheries on the St. Croix River at Danbury up and running to full capacity.- Photo courtesy St. Croix Vision
See 2008, page 2
HOMICIDE CHARGE - Text messaging during the Packer-Giant NFC Championship game led to a confrontation and Kyle L. Huggett of Danbury shot and killed John Peach of Grantsburg. Hugget was charged with second-degree reckless homicide. - Special photo
PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
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TRAFFIC STOPPI NG - This semi, loaded with a huge piece of equipment, stopped traffic and closed highways as it passed through Siren in March, stopping in Alpha, bound for Montana. – Photo by Priscilla Bauer
2008/from page 1
•A fundraiser was held to help send local Veterans of World War II to see their Memorial in Washington, D.C. •2002 Webster graduate Amanda Hansen appeared on the television series "Big Brother Nine." •Don Brand was honored for 50 years of service to the Amerian Legion Post 132 in Siren. •The Leader offered the full edition of the newspaper online for the first time. •Work began on the Coon Lake walkway in Frederic. •Polk County loaded 46 truckloads of salt for the southern part of the state after record snowfalls depleted road salt reserves for the Madison/Milwaukee area.
Tavern League donated to the Siren school for a post-prom party. •Former Siren teacher Howard Kopecky, 66, passed away from cancer. •Mark Jensen, Jensen Furniture in Luck, was named the grand marshal for the Luck Winter Carnival. •St. Croix Falls inventor Bill Kurtz presented his mass transit idea in Bangkok, Thailand. •The death of Charles F. Peterson, Town of Anderson, left a vacancy on the Burnett County Board of Supervisors. •The Frederic High School student council held a blood drive in honor of their teacher Jeff Larcom, who suffers from CIPD.
March
February •The Pines Thrift Store opened in Siren. •An ice castle made by volunteers for the Luck Winter Carnival was crafted from ice
ROADSIDE EDITORIAL - An unhappy Burnett County citizen paid for this billboard that went up not far from the government center in Siren, proclaiming, “Burnett County Land of 10,000 Tickets.” The sign criticized the sheriff for wanting more deputies. - Photo by Sherill Summer
LUCK’S NEW LIBRARY & MUSEUM - Members of the Luck community involved in the new library and museum project quickly assembled for a photo just as the roof to the new building’s entryway was put in place on a snowy day in February in downtown Luck. Shown (L to R) are Chuck Adelman, Carol Adelman, Bob Nelson, Verle Hacker, Dianne Dueholm, Tam Howie and Marilyn Berg. Hacker is the local project manager. Others helped oversee the project’s planning and fundraising via a special committee. - Photo by Connie Rich
from Sand Lake. •The Pennies for Patients campaign began in Osceola, where each year students collect pennies for Leukemia research, and the collection netted $3,400 for 2008. •A highway building referendum would be on the ballot in Polk County for the presidential primary Feb. 19. •The roof went on the Luck Library and Museum. •Unity graduates Jahnna and Jason Randall visited their old high school and brought the MTV filming crew with them to film a new MTV show called “The Dean’s List.” •Mary Maiden-Mueller was crowned Miss Luck at the Winter Carnival Queen Pageant. •A memorial service was held for 18-year-old Frederic woman Ashley Gelking who died following complications from a double lung transplant she had in 2005. •It was announced that CESA 11 Head Start would relocate from Frederic to Balsam Lake. •St. Croix Falls students presented a check from fund they raised totaling $3,124.48 to the library committee to go towards the new public library. •Jaylyn Lammert, St. Croix Falls, was the top Girl Scout cookie seller of her troop for the second year in a row selling 450 boxes and 574 boxes, respectively. •Two vacant, listed for sale, homes in Taylors Falls were destroyed by arson fires and two other similar homes had evidence of attempted arson all during the same early morning hours. •Grantsburg Family Food changed its name to Marketplace Foods. •Congressman Dave Obey received the Gaylord Nelson Congressional Leadership Award from Steve Bablitch, chairman of the Wisconsin Nature Conservancy board of trustees. •The Polk County Highway Shop referendum was defeated in the primary election with 80 percent of the vote being against. •Les Rodrigues, environmental services aid for St. Croix Regional Medical Center retired after 34 years. •A memorial service was held for Logan Taylor Louis, Grantsburg, who died at the age of 6 due to illness. •Maude Robinson celebrated her 100th birthday at St. Croix Valley Good Samaritan Center.
•”Back to the '80s…the Totally Awesome Musical!” was presented at Unity High School. •The Luck Cardinal boys basketball team earned their first trip to the state tournament in 35 years. •Scott R. Schilke, 24, and Heather M. Osborne, 23, both of Amery, lost their lives in a head-on collision with a semi tractor trailer on Hwy. 8 near Turtle Lake. •Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre announced his retirement. •The Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre and Grantsburg Community Education
See 2008, page 13
INSPIRATIONAL - Phil Mevissen constructed these three crosses on his property on Otter Slide Trail. The hill can be seen from Hwy. 87 north of St. Croix Falls, and at night, the crosses are lit making a spiritual billboard along the highway. –Photo by Tammi Milberg
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3
The Day After
Writer’s Corner
by Stan Miller ‘Twas the day after Christmas And all through the state Life was returning to normal Showcasing each human trait. Pushing and shoving resumes as before And the Christ child is pushed out the door.
Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-3492761 for more information about the organization.
Packages opened, unwrapping all over the place. Of worship and praise there’s hardly a trace. Plans being made to return to the store Take Elmo back, he’s ticklish no more. Buy bargains on sale for the coming year. And snacks for bowl games which are getting in gear. Nary a thought for the child whose birth was the reason for this celebration on earth. For he was born only to die On a Roman cross, we know, you and I. They didn’t know they were part of God’s plan
When they lifted the cross and the Son of Man. But you and I know ‘cause we’ve often heard The story of love and the birth of the word. And yet in spite of what we know We oftentimes appear untouched by Calvary’s flow. Let’s resolve before this Christmas has come and gone To remember the reason for the season all year long.
PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Brenda Mayer at 715-485-3571 or Iris Holm 715294-3174 for more information. - submitted
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
If you’re looking to become more self-confident and positive in the new year, here is a series that is sure to help point you in the right direction. The first part of the series will identify personality types and increase an understanding of self. True Colors will identify what stresses and frustrates us and what works well for us. This is a great team building tool for the whole organization. Each week of Fire in the Belly series will build on our strengths and push us to see and expect a more positive outcome. This program is designed to strengthen the individual, the person behind the organization. Discover your inner strength and increase self-understanding of why we
Maltee
work well with certain personalities and why we struggle with others. Take these tools with you wherever you go. Open to everyone.
Benefits of this program: • Provides all of us an opportunity to open our hearts and minds to our own potential. • Helps us recognize and encourage potential in others.
McMahon
Nonprofit
Corner
• Teaches us to bridge communication gaps, leading to respect and compassion for ourselves and others. • Opens doors to successful relationships and a climate for effective learning. • Increase understanding of strengths. • How to set and achieve goals. • Think proactively. • Networking. • Declutter negativity in daily routines. • Become more positive. Above all, fun! Register early. Fire in the Belly Series begins Jan. 19, with True Colors Personality Training, at the Bremer Bank in Amery. The ses-
sion will enhance communications and self-awareness. On Feb. 2, Celebrate Possibilities will be held. This class is about success through goal setting, a nontraditional approach to realizing goals. Feb. 16, is Taking Positive Action, to teach individuals to focus on the positive strengths and abilities to make things work. March 2, will be Take the Bull by the Horns. March 16, will be Fire in the Belly, to help re-energize enthusiasm from within. A lunch will be held on March 16. The cost is $20 per person/series. All classes will be held from 10 a.m. – noon, at the Bremer Bank in Amery. For more information on training events, please contact Maltee McMahon, Bremer Bank 715-231-7957 or mmcmahon@bremer.com.
SCRMC Volunteer Partners elect 2009 leaders ST. CROIX FALLS – The Village Pizzeria in Dresser was the scene of the annual Christmas party and election of officers for SCRMC Volunteer Partners. Following lunch served by the staff, Rosemarie Braatz read a bit of history from her book “Tales of St. Croix Falls.” Melissa Ward, their new historian, was also in attendance at the party and told the group how she will be preserving the Volunteer Partners history. A short business meeting was held, and the following leaders were chosen for 2009. They are: Carolyn Ward - president, Susan Jasperson - vice president, Jane St. John - secretary, Kathy Lucken - treasurer, Mary Werran and Jackie Hillman – comanagers of the gift shop, Bev Caspersen - financial manager of the gift shop, and
Attending the SCRMC Volunteer Partners annual Christmas party in Dresser were (L to R) back row: Mickey Gephard, Jackie Hillman, Carolyn Ward, Jane St. John and Bev Casperson. Front row: Mary Werran and Kathy Lucken. Missing from the picture was Susan Jasperson. – Photo submitted
rounding out the group that will be leading the volunteer partners is Mickey Gephard, volunteer services manager of St. Croix Regional Medical Center. The Christmas party was an opportunity to sit down with friends and just enjoy one another’s company, and celebrate their many accomplishments for the year. This was also an opportunity for them to come together to share what we have by bringing foods for the local food shelf. Volunteering is fun and very rewarding. If you find that you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month that you would like to share, please contact Mickey at 715-483-0331...they would love to have you. – submitted
Stay Healthy in 2009 POLK COUNTY – Just as infants and children need to follow an immunization timetable, adults should also regularly schedule certain medical tests. The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start. “Staying healthy in the new year is an important resolution, but most tend to bypass preventative exams and screenings that would keep them stronger longer,” says Katherine J. Rowland, chief clinical officer for the National Healing Center which partners with hospitals around the nation to treat chronic wounds. The Wound Healing Center in Amery, and other national healing wound centers, see patients who have had their lifestyles disabled by chronic wounds, which often have an underlying medical condition such as diabetes or vascular disease. Preventative screenings allow people to receive proper treatment that improves their lives and, in extreme cases, can detect an unknown condition
that could be life threatening. Located at 230 Deronda Street in Amery, the Wound Healing Center suggests adding the following screenings as recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to your 2009 calendar: • Schedule a tetanus-diphtheria shot every 10 years, a flu shot every year starting at age 50 and a pneumonia shot at age 65. • Cholesterol checks should be taken every five years beginning when men are 35 and women are 45. Smokers, diabetics and those with a family history of heart disease should begin screenings at age 20. • If you do not have annual health exams, arrange to have your blood pressure tested every two years. • Diabetes tests should be taken if you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol. As well as every three years after age 45. • Colorectal cancer screenings should
begin at age 50. There are a variety of tests, and the one you and your doctor choose will determine how often you will need to be retested. • Women should schedule a mammogram every one to two years starting at the age of 40 and a pap smear every one to three years if they are sexually active or older than 21. Older women should have a bone density test for osteoporosis at age 65 or after age 60 if they weigh less than 155 pounds. • Women 25 years and younger who are sexually active should be tested annually for chlamydia and all sexually active men and women should discuss tests for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases with their doctors. • Arrange a dental exam to be conducted one to two times every year. • A panel created by the American Diabetes Association recommends that every diabetic over age 50 be tested for peripheral arterial disease which narrows
leg arteries and reduces blood flow making those that have it six times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than others. • The American Cancer Society suggests men discuss having a prostate test and exam with their doctors by age 50 and by age 45 for those at high risk for prostate cancer such as African Americans and those with a family history. • The American Cancer Society recommends a skin examination for skin cancer every three years between ages 20 and 40, and every year thereafter. • The American Optometric Association recommends an eye exam every two to three years for ages 18-40, every two years for ages 41-60 and every year for those 61 and older. For more information about chronic wounds and their underlying conditions, call the Wound Healing Center at 715268-0175. – submitted
PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Spreading the profits by Russ Hanson “Don’t bite off more than you can chew,” yelled my brother, Everett, across the barn as I jabbed my flat blade shovel into the gutter, trying to break off a foot of pungent, steaming, fresh, green manure, stuck together with bright yellow straw, to push down to him at the end of the gutter where was waiting to pitch it into the manure spreader. “The bigger they are the harder they fall,” was my reply. Our attempts at wit were part of the camaraderie we brothers shared whenever we worked together. In the ‘50s, we did everything by hand on our farm behind Bass Lake, including cleaning the barns. We boys estimated that if we fed the cows a ton of hay and grain, by the time it had gone through their four stomachs and had been mixed with water, it came out as two tons of manure. The more common name for manure was considered a four-letter word in our home—and used at the pain of a soap-washed mouth. In the wintertime our cows stayed in the barn, stanchioned in two rows facing each other across a 5-foot wide manger. Directly behind each row, was a 16-inch wide, 8-inch deep gutter to hold the cows waste. The huge Holstein cows filled it to overflowing each day and it had to be shoveled and forked out by hand. In summer, the cows stayed in the pasture and only came in twice a day to be milked—allowing a weekly cleaning of the gutters. All winter, the daily routine was to let the cows outside for a little exercise while we cleaned the barn and then bring them back in to the warm, comfortable barn. On nice days, Dad backed the tractor and manure spreader up to the barn doors and pitched the manure into the spreader and hauled it out to the field to be spread as fertilizer for the next year’s crop. Deep snow and frigid weather stopped the tractor hauling and forced us to wheel it out in the barnyard to an ever increasingly large manure pile. Temperatures below 15 were too cold to get the Super C Farmall tractor started easily, and froze the manure quickly enough to risk breaking the spreader. Dad was philosophical when it came to manure. “The Farmer Magazine says that manure is part of the profits from the farm. It saves me from having to buy fertilizer at the Co-op, and according to a guy from the nniversity, should be treated as a valuable part of farming produce.” After that he no longer hauled manure, he “spread the profits.” Before the 1950s, dairy farmers rotated their crops between hay, corn and oats. The manure spread back on the fields was a necessary part of making this sustainable version of agriculture work. Dad did the barn cleaning work by himself during the week, but on weekends, when we four boys were home from school, we helped as much as we could. It was not that we had to; it was because it was fun to be in the barn with Dad and helping out. We boys worked hard on the farm, but not nearly as hard as Mom and Dad did. “I was a little too independent to work for other people,” Dad told me when I asked why he chose to be a farmer. “I could be my own boss as a farmer. It was a lot of work, but I liked doing it.” He milked cows, cleaned barns, and raised all of the crops on his own farm from 1941 until he retired 40 years later when Parkinson’s disease forced him to sell the cows. There were two parts to the actual gutter cleaning. One of us pitched the manure from gutter to spreader or wheelbarrow. The other pushed it down the gutter to the person pitching it. The gutter was filled with a mixture of straw and manure. It was the consistency of pumpkin pie filling with a straw binder. The pusher “bit off” a sec-
Collected by
Russ Hanson
River Road
Ramblings
Cleaning the barn on the Hansson ancestral farm in Sweden is done by hand in 2003, just like on the Hanson farm in Sterling in the old days. A common thread in our American and Swedish heritage is shoveling manure. – Photos by Russ Hanson tion of manure/straw by breaking it loose from the rest with the flat shovel turned backward—cutting off the portion. Then you flipped the shovel right side up and shoved your bite down the cement gutter picking up speed as you came to the end. A five tined manure fork worked if the manure had a lot of straw. Dad had put cement floors and gutters in the 1915 barn when he first bought it. Years of sliding manure down the gutter had worn the bottom smooth and shiny. It looked like green variegated marble—colorful rocks mixed in the cement giving it a lovely polished look, stained the color of green manure. It looked so colorful and bright, it would have made a beautiful kitchen countertop. Dad bought a new barn shovel each fall. They were steel, with a long handle carefully selected for straight grain, the pan just narrower than the gutter. By spring, the shovel blade would have worn down by nearly half from sliding on the cement. One year the shovel was the Armstrong brand. After that, when people asked Dad what kind of barn cleaner he had, “I have an Armstrong barn cleaner” he would reply, chuckling as he enjoyed the double meaning. “Watch Byron,” Mom told Marvin as he helped his 4-year-old “baby brother” get his barn boots on. Byron was the youngest and liked to be where the action was, even if he couldn’t help yet. In the winter, he kept his trike in the barn and raced Lucky, our dog, up and down the white limed walkways behind the cows. “I’m a hawn dog cryin o’er da bool” sang Byron that day as he raced his trike up the walk, wheeled it around and headed back while we were grunting over our manure evacuation jobs. He was a big fan of Elvis’s new “Hound Dog” song. Suddenly the song was replaced by a real howl. We rushed to him on the other side of the barn. Taking a corner too fast for conditions, he had hit a cow pie slick and rolled into the gutter. The trike was on top of him; his arms and legs were waving wildly while he
yowled. “Be quiet—the cows will kick you,” yelled Marvin as we pulled off the trike. “Yuk, he’s all covered with manure,” said Everett, “You pull him out! I’m not gonna touch him,” Marvin commanded me. “You do it, you’re the oldest” I replied. By then, Dad came over and pulled Byron, still sounding like a siren, out of the gutter. “Byron, hush up, you’re OK. You just need to get cleaned up. A little manure never hurt anyone,” said Dad who remained remarkably calm through most situations. “Marvin, you take him to the house, but first take him out in the snow bank and rub off the manure with snow and hay so Mom won’t have such a mess.” Marvin was soon back but Byron was out of action for the rest of the morning. In the winter, we let the cows out while we cleaned the barn. They got 30 minutes to walk around and visit with each other before spending the rest of the day in their stalls. As soon as the cows left their stalls, they stopped to poop on the walkway that we had to keep white with lime. We tried to fool them by rattling their stanchions, or rushing them, but they always waited to go until it they could make the worst mess. We spread the stalls thick with fresh yellow straw each day, laboriously forked from the huge straw stack in the barnyard and brought into the barn each day. The old straw from the stalls went into the freshly cleaned gutter to soak up the urine and minimize splashing. With stalls bedded and gutters clean, the cows came back into the barn. Each cow knew which order to come into the barn, with the boss cow first, and each knew which stall was home. On the rare occasion that Dad wanted to move a cow from one stall to a new one, it took a lot of chasing and several weeks for the cow to learn its new home. The cows with big appetites walked along the stalls ducking their head in to grab a mouthful of hay from the manger where a picky eater might
The cows face each other in the manger in Sweden. Russ’ cousin Arne still has a few beef cattle on the Swedish farm on which our shared great-greatgrandfather lived.
have left a wisp or two. We checked the manger to make sure the water drinking cups were working and clean; pitched the manger full of hay from the huge haymow above, and then swept and limed the floors behind the cows and adjusted the different doors in the barn to provide enough ventilation for the temperature outside. Cows produce a lot of body heat, so even at 20 below, a little ventilation was needed in Dad’s barn, insulated with 30 feet of hay above and foot-thick cinder blocks for walls. With the main barn done, Dad moved to the calf barn where we shoveled and forked out the pens each week. With the manure spreader heaped high, Dad headed towards the field in which he planned to plant a second year of corn and needed extra fertility. With aggressive field tractor chains, the Super C could haul the spreader through snow up to a foot deep or more, but most winters the time came when it was too deep. Then we built the manure pile. The manure froze solid from one day to the next, so Dad built smooth trails to the top that let him pile it higher and higher. After a few dives into the wheelbarrow, we boys learned how to push it ourselves and held competitions to reach Pike’s Peak with a full load. In the spring after it melted, it all had to be pitched onto the spreader and hauled to the fields. We bought a Jubilee Ford with a loader to help us out in later years. Grandpa had cows and a barn and the same problems. His barn was equipped with a manure carrier. A long metal track ran from one end of the barn to the other and out the door to a tall post down the hillside. Instead of pitching the manure into the wheelbarrow or spreader, Grandpa pitched it into a metal carrier that lowered to the floor. When it was full, you pulled a chain that raised it to the track; pushed it off and by gravity it went out the door and down the track and automatically tripped at the end, dumping on the spreader or pile. You pulled it back in and refilled it again. It was exciting to help Grandpa and zoom the carrier down the track. We never quite got courage enough to ride the rails ourselves. By the 1960s, even small farmers were getting automatic barn cleaners. You turned on an electric motor and chains with paddles moved the manure along the gutters and out the door, up a chute and into the manure spreader. The romance of cleaning the barn by hand had disappeared; it is but a fond memory of a few of us old timers. This is our 200th column since 2005, when we put in our first celebrating Sterling Township’s 150th anniversary. Stanley Selin has contributed over 50 columns, centered around the Trade Lake area. Dozens of you have submitted your own stories and occasionally I have put in a story about the old days on the farm. This week, with our story down in the gutter and full of manure, we probably have reached a new low. However, we are hopeful that however deep we shovel it out, there are those of you who continue to read the column and with that hope we will continue to fork it out in 2009. As my brothers tell me, “With degrees in B.S. from Moo U (UWRF) what can you expect!” Send your own stories to riverroadramber @ gmail.com or Russ Hanson, 15937 Co 27 Blvd, Pine Island, MN 55963 or 507-356-8877.
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5
Do you remember ?
Twinkies and root beer A little boy wanted to meet God. He knew it was a long trip to where God lived, so he packed his suitcase with Twinkies and a six pack of root beer, and he started his journey. When he had gone about three blocks, he met an elderly Abrahamzon man. He was sitting in the park just feeding some pigeons. The boy sat down next to him on the bench, and opened his suitcase. He was about ready to take a drink from his root beer when he noticed that the man looked hungry, so he offered him a Twinkie. The man gratefully accepted it and smiled at the boy. His smile was so pleasant that the boy wanted to see it again, so he offered him a root beer. Again the man smiled at him. The boy was delighted. They sat there all afternoon eating and smiling, but they never said a word. As it grew dark, the boy realized how tired he was, and he got up to leave, but before he had gone more than a few steps, he turned around, ran back to the man, and gave him a hug. The man gave him his biggest smile ever. When the boy opened the door of his own house a short time later, his mother was surprised by the look of joy on his face. She asked him, “What did you do today that made you so happy?” He replied, ”I had lunch with God.” Before his mother could respond, he added, “God’s got the most beautiful smile I’ve ever seen.” Meanwhile, the elderly man, also radiant with joy, returned to his home. His son was stunned by the look of peace on his face, and he asked, “Dad, what did you do today that made you so happy?” He replied, “I ate Twinkies in the park with God.” However, before his son responded, he added, “You know, he’s a lot younger than I expected.” Too often we underestimate the power of a smile, a touch, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. People come into our lives for a reason, a season or a lifetime. Embrace all equally! – Author unknown (Note: The above is borrowed from our church newsletter.)
Bernice
Behind the Signpost
The Meaning of the Candy Cane Isaiah 53 The candy maker’s work of art, Can teach the mind and touch the heart.
Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon
50 Years Ago For Jesus Christ, he made a “J,” That’s like a staff for sheep that stray. Like Christ, our Rock, the firmness stands, For promises, and God’s commands. The purest white for the virgin birth, Is streaked with red, For his pain on earth. The scourging stripes are close and thin, The broader one is for our sin. This message is too good to keep, The Shepherd died to save His Sheep. Christmas is for children How often we hear the above statement! Children are delighted by actual gifts wrapped in pretty paper. Sometimes, it’s a new bicycle hidden in the garage. Who doesn’t remember receiving a first radio or perhaps bedroom TV or computer? Gifts are more sophisticated these days. I remember when I was a child and receiving my first wristwatch, my first typewriter which began a long career of writing, my first bicycle. My father had always wanted a son who would go hunting with him or fishing, and instead he got a daughter. So my bicycle was a boy’s model. He gave me black hockey skates one Christmas; long, heavy skis another. He took me hunting, but I didn’t like guns. Eventually, my father conceded that I was a daughter, who loved to read and write. I loved going to school and learning. I still believe that no day is wasted when I learn something new. As we grow older, gifts become more intrinsic. How do you wrap the gift of peace? The gift of love and friendship? Security? Pastor Tom said on Christmas Eve that Christmas is Hope. You know that saying, “Where there is life, there’s hope”? So there’s no place or time without hope. We need good vision and perception, a clear view. The children’s Christmas program was a real gift to the grownups in church that Sunday morning. Mrs. Jim Jones (Chung) recited the Lord’s Prayer in her native language, and that, too, was a gift to the congregation. Happy New Year to all. Until next week, Bernice
Bloodmobile coming to Siren SIREN – As the new year begins, people all over the United States are making resolutions. The American Red Cross encourages all eligible individuals to include donating blood on their list of New Year’s resolutions. The next local opportunity to donate blood is Tuesday, Jan. 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Siren Covenant Church. The sponsor is the Lund-Brown American Legion Post No. 132 Auxiliary. Donating blood is an easy way to help others. It only takes about an hour of your time. If blood donation is included on your list of resolutions, it could be the easiest one to keep. The Red Cross recommends that you get a good night’s sleep, eat a good breakfast or lunch, drink extra water and fluids to replace the volume to be donated, avoid caffeinated beverages and eat iron-rich foods to boost your iron level. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood-donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form, where state permits. They must weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good general health.
Many eligible blood donors may already have listed eating better or cutting caffeine intake as a resolution. Donating blood might be an extra incentive to keep those healthy resolutions that you make Jan. 1, 2009. Everyone has a different reason for donating blood. Keeping your New Year’s resolution could be your reason. Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross helps ensure that no patient goes without blood, no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts. For more information, call 800-GIVE LIFE (800-4483543) or visit www.givebloodgivelife.org. – Information submitted
Trees will thank you: The Leader e-edition @ www.the-leader.net
Carl and Myrtle Wallin of Coast to Coast store in Frederic advertised gift appliances including an electric fry pan for $8.77, an oblong electric griddle for $8.77, a Firestone electric coffeepot for $8.77 and a waffle baker at $8.77.-Dancing classes at Delores’ School of Dancing, Siren, were cancelled during the holidays, and would resume Jan. 3.-Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman were starring in the film “Indiscreet” at the D’Lux Theatre, Luck.-A dance was set for Indian Creek Hall on Saturday, Dec. 20, with music by Jerry Sinz.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included lutefisk at 25¢ lb., turkeys at 35¢ lb., bananas at 25¢ lb, Red Cup coffee at 59¢ lb., and sugar at 10 lbs. for 99¢.-Frederic Auto Co. advertised cars such as a 1955 Plymouth Savoy 2-door at $1,100, a 1953 Packard sedan at $175, a 1957 Ford Tudor Ranch wagon at $1,695 and a 1952 Plymouth Cranbrook sedan at on $275.-Farmer’s Union Co-op, Frederic, advertised chest-type freezers, from a 13 cu. ft. at $219.95 to a 17 cu. ft. at $249.95 to a 21 cu. ft. at $299.95. Upright models were comparable in price except the 20 cu. ft. was $329.95.-A new $20 million bill will favor integrated schools.-Bruce Shattuck caught a 11.1 lb. walleye.-Virigina and Harold Sommerfeld were married at Pine City, Minn., on Jan. 3.
40 Years Ago Peppermint candy ice cream was 99¢ for a half-gallon from Gustafson’s.-The film “The Dirty Dozen” was playing at the D’Lux Theatre.-Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included Co-op cake mixes at 4 for $1, Gold Medal flour at $1.89 for 25 lbs., pure honey at 99¢ for a 4-lb. jar, and raisins for 59$ for 2 lbs.-Specials at Route’s Super Market included ground beef at 47¢ lb., chicken noodle soup at 15¢ can, tuna at 29¢ can, oranges at 3 dozen for $1 and bacon at 2 lbs. for $1.13.-Olsen & Son Drugs, Frederic, advertised English Leather among other men’s fragrances – Jade East, Pub, That Man, Old Spice and Hai Karate.-Jensen Furniture, Luck, was advertising Colonial Comfort chairs.-Minerva Marina was open all winter including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included kidney beans at 8 cans for $1, coffee at 2 lbs. for $1.29, grapefruit at 6 for 49¢, Polish sausage at 69¢ lb. and spare ribs at 39¢ lb.-Christmas trees were available at Arbor Hill Tree Farms.-Milltown Cooperative Services had a guessing contest where the winner could win Caprina, the frozen pig.-World War I vets met Dec. 14 at the Luck Village Hall.-Patrons heard a good report at the annual meeting of the Frederic Co-op.
20 Years Ago Bob Becker, Spooner, wrote about his Uncle Herb, who was a real character.-Webster High School students would get a weighted grade point average.The coyote season was closed to protect wolves.-A K-6 school was a new option at Frederic.-A land purchase was viewed by the Luck School Board.-Dianna Mangelsen’s picture was on the front page of the Nov. 23 issue of the Inter-County Leader showing her with a 16-point buck she shot on the morning of the opening season. She planned to have the antlers mounted for display in her home at Indian Creek.Eye to Eye focused on Alma Williams who had a talent for restoring antique dolls.-Obituaries included Chester Nelson, Doris Krentz, Evelyn Hanson and Constance E. Nelson.-A high school business careers workshop was held at WITC.-An FHA health forum was held Dec. 2.-Area Tri-State Breeders members planned to meet at Milltown VFW.-Receipts and expenses were up at the Polk County Fair.-The Burnett County Board adopted an $8.4 million budget for 1989.-Deer accounted for nearly a third of road accidents in Burnett County and it ran fifth in Polk County.
PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER
Hi, everybody! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. Well, here we are at the end of another year and I’ve been trying to suss out in my mind how I want to wind up my yearend column. I have so much to think about and reflect on. The shelter has taken in 400-plus dogs this year, and I’m not even sure how many cats. It astounds me that people come from near and far to adopt my fellow brothers and sisters, and that is great! I am so thankful that there are so many YAPpenings caring folks that want to have a shelter pet to love and care for. On the other side, I hear about so much abuse and neglect at the hands of uncaring people - and that makes me a sad dog indeed. If I have one wish for the new year, it’s that people will begin to think about their animals as thinking and feeling beings, because they are! Maybe not in the same way as you humans, but we are not just possesions or ornaments, either. Don’t get a dog to be a weapon, or a status symbol, or a whipping post, or anything unfair to it like that. When you get a pet, it only wants to love you and be a good part of your life. And if you have behavioral problems with your pet, there are lots of resources to access to remedy that. You can talk to experienced pet owners, your vet, and there are a great plenty of online sources for advice, as well. Don’t get mad, get educated. I’m spoiled, I admit it; but I’m always thinking about my shelter pals who come from all sorts of situations, and those that never make it there, and I worry. At the shelter this week, only one stray came in. Gato is a husky/shepherd mix, and I think he is an older guy. He was found outside Grantsburg, near the Polk County line. He is a nice-looking tan color and seems to have some problems with his rear differential. I hope his folks claim him; he wants to go home pretty badly. On a happy note, Wrinkles - the last of her litter - went home last week. Hmmm, Wrinkles ... heck of a name for a puppy if you ask me. Until I met her, I envisioned a dog with a face like a well-used lunch bag but, oh boy, she was a cutie, and
Blacky Shelter
Dewey - LaFollette
468-2940
cake and thanked Deb again for her years of service. Deb was very appreciative of all the people there wishing her a happy and healthy retirement and for the cards and gifts she received. On Saturday morning, Dec. 20, I sat for four hours by the bedside of my brother, Stanley Smith, until he passed away at the BMC Continuing Care, Grantsburg. His memorial service will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 3, at First Baptist Church, Webster, with a meal to be served afterwards in the fellowship hall. Village residents probably remember him as the man who rode his three-wheel bicycle down the middle of Main Street as he went for morning coffee at the C & S Café (now known as Moonglow). He also rode it almost in the middle of the road as he pedaled his way to Wayne’s Foods for a few groceries. Big trucks better get out of his way, he thought. He was quite a lovable character, and he will be missed! Our center was only open for nutrition meals on Monday and Tuesday before Christmas. Most area churches held candlelight services on Christmas Eve, and the one I attended at the Baptist Church was awesome. The special music furnished by
Karen Mangelsen
Sympathy is extended to Avis Baker and family, due to the death of Avis’ husband, Eddie Baker. He was 83. Hank and Karen Mangelsen visited Nana and Lawrence Hines Tuesday afternoon. Lida and Don Nordquist hosted a family Christmas celebration Wednesday evening. Guests were Joleen, Richard, Rick, Robb and Randi Funk, Robb’s friend Beth, Randi’s friend Adam and Jon, Jim, Caleb and Hannah Schott. Judy Albee, Don Schleiss, Duane and Kathy Albee and Donald Albee were supper guests of Beverly Brunclik Wednesday. They celebrated Christmas together. Donna and Gerry Hines went to Centerville, Minn., Wednesday, to the home of their son, Barry and Sue Hines. They celebrated Christmas there with their family that evening. They stayed overnight at the home of daughter, Brenda and Tim Sweet, and returned home Thursday. Don and Lida Nordquist visited Don’s sister, Bunny Johnson, her daughter Kim and Kim’s fiancé, Shawn, in the Twin Cities Christmas Day. They were noon dinner guests there. Later they were supper guests of Sue and Colin Harrison in Richfield, Minn. Garry and Beth Crosby and Judy and Greg Leonard were Christmas Day dinner guests of Judy Albee and Don Schleiss at Judy’s home. Gerry and Donna Hines were supper guests of Lida and Don Nordquist Friday. Overnight guests of Karen and Hank Mangelsen over the weekend were Patty and Mandy Close and Larry, Celie and Baxter Mangelsen. Other visitors were Jake, Holly, Hannah and Grace Mangelsen, April and Dave Close, Tim DeLawyer and Maynard Mangelsen. Sunday dinner guests of Judy Albee and Don Schleiss at Judy’s home were Don, Charlene and Charlie Strabel. They celebrated Christmas. Clam River Tuesday club will meet Jan. 7 at 1:30 p.m. at the home of Judy Albee.
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Webster Senior Center
866-4334 The cold and snowy weather has made our ice-fishing guys and snowmobile riders happy, but it has kept some of our diners from participating in the congregate meals at the center. Since I missed the newspaper’s deadline last week, I will do a recap on some of it. On Thursday morning, Dec. 18, Lily Gleason, Sandy Wohlitz and I were at the Burnett County Government Center to see Aging Director Lois Taylor give our center’s retiring site manager/cook, Debra Korhonen, a certificate of appreciation for her nearly ten years of employment at our Webster nutrition site. We will miss you, Deb! Deb then joined Theresa Gloege, Carol Berglind, Gladys Beers, Nancy O’Brien, Jane Wardean and Margel Ruck for an evening of cards at the center. Pool players were Harold Peterson, Dave Wardean, Gene Johnson, Ken Hayes and Pat O’Brien. Deb celebrated her retirement with another party at our senior center on Friday, Dec. 19. Thirty-three diners enjoyed a roast pork dinner with dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, veggies and dessert. Lois Taylor furnished a decorated sheet
I’m glad she’s found herself a new family. The two golden retriever brothers are on the verge of adoption also, but I want to remind folks that we have a few more suitable characters as well. Aurora is the chocolate Lab-mix puppy girl who was found in a ditch. She is so loving and sweet; plus she is gorgeous! Belle is a beautiful pointer/springer mix and is about 5 months old. Her qualities can’t be beat, either. I like her a lot! Do you have room for a big dog? Young Ozzie, the Lab/St. Bernard mix, is a happy-go-lucky boy of about 8 months who only wants to romp around and be your big sap. Ditto for Samual, the rott-mix pooch. If you are looking to add a kitty to your household, we have some of those, too. There are some cute kittens! Mostly, cats blur my mind, but you can see all the available ones on the humane society’s Web site. I’m sorry, but when I look at cats, I drool and lose my sensibility. It’s just how I am ... I’m a tired boy this week. My mom ate too much holiday food and walked me and my brothers miles beyond what we are used to. One day, we were out walking and there was a man brushing the highlines near our house. First, I barked and got my hackles up, but he turned out to be a nice guy. He even said to my mom, “That’s a fine bunch of little deputies you have there!” Little? Deputies?! My mom laughed really hard, but I wanna know when I get my badge! I’m on patrol, now. And all I want is for all of you pet owners, or even you humans without pets, to just say a soft word into the ear of the one or ones you love, furry or otherwise. Will you do that for me? I might be a big doofus dog, but I’d like to see us all start out the new year on the right paw. Humor me. If you get on a roll, think about donating your time or resources to the shelter next year. They sure could use it. I have great admiration for everyone who helped support us this year, and in past years, and we’re counting on caring folks to carry us through this new year as well. Thanks to you all; the shelter couldn’t survive without you! I’m a lucky dog, associated with an awesome bunch of people! Happy New Year, everyone, and I’ll see you here next year, err ... next week. OK, both! HSBC is saving lives, one at a time www.hsburnettcty.org 866-4096.
Mary Klar
church families was inspiring, and the duet sung by Ben Koerper and his sister Julie Macke was awesome. Ben and Shirley had to catch an early Christmas morning flight for their return home to California. Our special gratitude goes to Mark and Judy Foote for donating candy treats for the nutrition diners in memory of Judy’s mother, Sylvia Pardun; Bruce Behrens for shoveling the sidewalk and recycling the cardboard boxes; and Deb is very grateful for all of the volunteers who have assisted her over the past 10 years. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out for Don Brand, Bob Kellberg, Eloise Anderson, Antone and Jeremy Gronski, and Dick Schaibel who is recovering from a heart attack. Our sympathy and prayers also go out to the families of Geri Cyms, Irene Glueheisen, Faye Russ, and Mark Stener in their recent passing. Every Christmas, people from all over the world sing the words of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “Christmas Bells.” He wrote it in 1864 during one of his darkest hours – the Civil War tore his country apart, he mourned the loss of his wife, Fannie, and he faced the lonely days of struggle, discord, and immense respon-
sibility alone. The poem begins with the author hearing Christmas bells and carolers singing, “Peace on earth.” He writes, “And in despair I bowed my head, ‘There is no peace on earth,’ I said. ‘For hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men.’” But during his poem, Longfellow experiences a transformation. Apparently inspired by the faith of slaves, who knew sorrow greater than his, he writes, “Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: ‘God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; the wrong shall fail, the right prevail with peace on earth, good will to men.’” Although he never found love again, Henry continued hosting weekly book readings in his library and blessed the world with inspiring poems. He’s been gone for more than a century now – but his poems endure. It is ironic, and almost paradoxical: In our sophisticated contemporary world of endless technology, we can download century-old words from the quill of a lonesome poet and sing of peace. – Tonya Stoneman. I hope you all have had a very merry Christmas, and now can go on to celebrate a very happy and healthy new year. See you at the center.
Cloverton-Markville Christmas was celebrated in fine fashion out here in the little hamlets of Arna and New Dosey. There will not be a rundown on individual events, but a report on some other and related items of interest. First of all, the public bus that was scheduled to start service out here in January has been cancelled due to budget cuts at the state level. We are very disappointed. Darlene Merimonti and Clara Lilly went up to the Lakeside Lutheran Home in Duluth, Minn., recently to visit with Esther Proffit. Esther has been undergoing rehabilitation after taking a fall in her home. Esther is 96 years old now, and we wish her a speedy recovery that will bring her back to her home in Cozy Corners, soon. You may recall that the Zion Lutheran Church of
Markville, Minn., sponsored their annual craft and bake sale in November. You may be interested and pleased to learn that they donated $300 of their proceeds to a group home for the disabled in Kurkuk, Kirdestan. Kathy Nelson, a member of the church and retired teacher, is a missionary in Kurkuk. She and all of the residents of the facility are overwhelmed and grateful for the generosity of the Zion Church members. We are all proud of this little country church for having such a faraway impact. Dear Maynard Monson has moved from Markville, Minn., to the Elderwood Assisted Living Home in Hinckley, Minn. His only requirement before agreeing to the move was that he be able to take his guitar with him. Keep strumming, Maynard.
Marlene and Don Misher, Clara Lilly, Darlene Merimonti and Fran and Dave Baker all attended the little Christmas party held for seniors at the Northland Community Center in Wisconsin awhile back. All kinds of holiday treats were served, then everyone ate the meal served by Pat Kinbloom, who runs the senior dining program over there. Lastly, Bingo was enjoyed by everyone. On the home front, Art Woodford and Sherry Wilson stopped over to pick up a portrait of Art’s dad that Dave had painted for him. While they were here, we all had coffee and holiday cookies. May 2009 be a good year for all of you, wherever you are.
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7
TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Lewis
653-4281 Rick Abrahamzon and Sheila Staples attended the commencement at UW-River Falls on Saturday. Shannon Webster and Darrell Imhoff received their master’s degrees in education. Rick and Sheila were among several in the audience who were asked to stand and be recognized as UW-River Falls graduates, and to welcome the new graduates to the alumni association. Diane and Ron Ackland were Saturday overnight guests at the home of Carol and Lee Mangelsen. It was Carol’s birthday on Saturday. LaVerne Leep, mother of Carol and Diane, joined them and they enjoyed visiting together. The Acklands reside in Hutchinson, Minn. The Lewis church children and teachers did the entire Sunday service, with a skit based on “Do you see what I see?” plus singing and Scripture readings. They treated everyone in attendance to a special sheet cake after the service. Gloria Chell, organist, and Starr Warndahl, pianist, played a very dramatic prelude, which evoked a round of applause. As did the choir’s special number. Everyone received a bright red apple as a gift from Robin and Randy Peterson. Everyone also received a bag of mixed popcorn (cheese, plain, plus caramel) from Myron Peterson’s Popcorn Factory in the Twin Cities. All very much appreciated. The children received age-appropriate Bibles purchased through Debbie Lenz Eaton’s religious shop in Hayward. Debbie grew up in the Lewis Sunday school and is a good
Frederic Senior Center Saturday our food and fellowship was well-attended in spite of the weather. Card games were enjoyed. Monday Spades winners were Shirley Sandquist, Jim Anderson and Ed Berdal. Whist was played on Tuesday. No pokeno Wednesday, Christmas Eve. Christmas Day the center was closed. Friday executive meeting was held at 9:30 a.m. Pokeno at 1 p.m. Saturday, food and fellowship and games. Next Thursday, Jan. 1, will be our New Year’s holiday potluck and games to follow. No Thursday night 500 cards, due to the holiday. Come and enjoy this fun time with us. Dinner is at noon. We express get-well wishes to Dorothy LaDoucer, who fell and broke her hip on Dec. 19.
Births Josh and Rebekah Bradfield of San Antonio, Texas, announce the arrival of their firstborn, Lydia Marie, on Dec. 22, 2008. Lydia weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz. and was 20 inches long. Paternal grandparents are Tim and Marla Bradfield of Apple Valley, Calif., and Chip and Cherie Wilkinson of Bastrop, Texas. Maternal grandparents are LeRoy and Raylene Anderson of Amery. Great-grandparents include Ray Dodge of Trego and Raymond and Donna Marek of Bloomer. - submitted •••
friend. Christmas Eve services were held in the Lewis Church at 7 p.m. Siren’s services were at 9 p.m., Christmas Eve. Pastor Tom Cook serves both United Methodist churches. He is originally from Ohio. Several red poinsettias brightened the sanctuary, along with a green and white one. Nicole Nelson and Taylor Alseth lit the fourth candle in the traditional Advent wreath. Merry Christmas to Emma Jensen and Doris Pedersen in the Frederic Care Center, and to Jody Murdt. She has been in the Rice Lake hospital and also the Shell Lake hospital, but is reportedly home in Danbury now. The weather forecasters were right about the snow. It came, and followed by a layer of ice. Could have been worse, but it is cold for those working outside.
Friendship baskets
In 2008, members of the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church voted to distribute friendship baskets in the small community of Lewis during the holiday season. They were reviving a custom established in earlier years by the women of the church, making it an all-church project. Gifts of fruit, cookies, candy, packets of cocoa, etc., piled up and baskets and pails were packed. Carolers decided to deliver them while they were out singing Christmas songs. Lewis has no Welcome Wagon or Community Fund, and the baskets represented different sentiments. Some conveyed the message, “We may be small, but we’re glad you are here,” or “Welcome.” Others said, “We appreciate you,”
Bernice Abrahamzon or “we’re sorry you’ve been ill,” or “We care about you.” Behind every basket was the wish for a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 2009. There is something to be said for having our own people-to-people contact. It was cold. Snowflakes drifted down and the group walked the neighborhood. “It was fun,” one man said, and a bystander said, “How nice they look singing there in the snow.” Writing checks for various worthy organizations is all very well, but it does not convey the personal caring or touch. People-to-people does that!
Christmas Eve
Separate Christmas Eve services were conducted by Pastor Tom Cook at the Lewis and Siren United Methodist churches. The response at the 7 p.m. service was outstanding at Lewis, with Scripture, singing of carols and silence and solemnity. All the candles in the Advent wreath were lighted by Cindy and Kerry Brendel. Smiles, too, as the new candlewicks refused to light at first try. Persistance paid off, bringing applause. Sometimes life’s solemn moments bring smiles. Rick and Kathy Hutchinson sang a beautiful duet before the candlelight ritual of neighbors lighting candles, row upon row. Later, neighbors took time to share hugs as well. “We felt like family, and drawing new ones into the family circle seems the natural thing to do,” one person said. Meanwhile, Happy New Year to faithful readers.
Siren Senior Center As the old year winds down we want to thank everyone who contributed to making this past year successful for our center. Thanks to our board members for keeping tabs on everything. Gratitude is extended to each and every one who contributed your time or materials that helped to keep the center running smoothly. Gratitude is also extended to all of the volunteers who helped making our fundraising projects successful and to Keith Hobbie and Best Western Hotel for all of the nice things that you did for us all year around. You are all appreciated. It was a quiet week at the center as we were opened for three days only. On Wednesday we had our annual potluck dinner with 26 people dining. Gratitude is extended to all who contributed food and goodies for this event. Thanks to all who took the time to help set up and clean up after the party. Special thanks to Marge and Patty Traun who volunteered and washed the dishes. Our Dining at Five Dinner will be served on Jan. 8. The signup sheet is out, either stop in or call 715-349-2845 to make a reservation. CeCe is serving baked ribs with your choice of sauce, roasted potatoes, vegetable, salad bar and lemon bars for dessert. The price, as far as I know at this moment, is still $5 per person. Our gratitude to all who contributed gifts for our Toys for Kids box. We managed to collect quite a boxful and Interfaith Caregivers were very appreciative. Remember we
Barb Munger
still have our collection box for the Burnett County Humane Society, which will be an ongoing thing. There are a number of items that they need to keep running smoothly so if you can afford to donate something for them a lot of folks and animals will be thankful. Happy birthday to Marjorie Nyberg, Corrine Root and George Rydel who are celebrating their birthdays this month. We will honor them on the 20th after the senior monthly meeting with our monthly birthday cake. Get-well wishes to Don Brand, Gladys Mansfield and Eloise Anderson. We’re anxiously waiting until you join us again. Our sympathy to the family of Faye Russ. We will miss her special cards that she donated to the center and the Red Hat gals will miss her “Happy Birthday” song that she performed for them. She was a very special person and everyone loved her. We will be back to playing our regular games of Dime Bingo, 500 and Spades. All of these activities begin at 1 p.m. and we welcome all who want to join us. The center is usually open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Stop in for coffee and cookies or just to say “hi.” We want to wish everyone a very happy and healthy new year.
St. Croix Valley Senior Center Written for last week
Last week’s Tuesday Dominos winners were: Janice Mevissen in first place, Ione Meixner in second place and George Meixner in third place. The 500 card winners were: Elaine Edlund in first place, Olga Young in second place, Marian Edler in third place and Cliff Qualle and Jeanne Thomfohrda tied for fourth place. Thursday night 500 card winners were: Ray Nelson in first place, Kim Rosen in second place, Cliff Qualle in third place and Roger Greenly in fourth place. The monthly meeting and potluck was held on Thursday, Dec. 18, with 20 members in attendance. We are looking for a food manager. This person must attend an all-day training session and test on Jan. 19. The senior center will pay for the license, but the food manager position is a voluntary one. When the senior center has a food function, the food manager does not have to be in attendance, they just have to be a member of the senior center. If anyone would be interested in this position, please call the center and leave your phone number so we can get you scheduled for the training session. Every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m., an exercise session is held. At 11 a.m. Skipbo is played. Both of these
activities are free. Every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. Dominos and 500 cards are played. Both of these games cost $2 to play. Every Thursday evening 500 cards are played at 6:30 p.m. The first and third Friday, at 1 p.m., we play 12 games of social Bingo. You get two cards for 12 games for $2. There is a 100-percent cash prize payback for Bingo. Every Friday at 10 a.m., Bridge is played. It is free. All activities are open to the community regardless of age. The senior center will be closed during the day on Wednesday, Dec. 31. In the evening, a New Year Eve’s party will be held at 6 p.m. with a potluck. Dominos and 500 cards will be played after dinner. The public is invited. Please drive carefully as you bring in a new year. Stop by the senior center for a monthly calendar of events or a cup of coffee and a treat. Come and join the fellowship and fun. The senior center is available for private rentals for a very reasonable fee and community events. Call 715-483-3466 for more information.
Written for this week
Last week’s Tuesday Dominos winners were: Martha Lundstrum in first place, Deloris Benson in second place and Prudence Johnson in third place. The 500 cards win-
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ners were: Marian Davison in first place, Marion Edler in second place, Vern Lundstrum in third place and Rita Bowie in fourth place. Due to Christmas, there was no cards on Thursday evening. We hope you all enjoyed a blessed holiday. There will be a potluck at 6 p.m. with cards and dominos to follow on New Year’s Eve at the senior center. All activities are open to the community. Every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. an exercise session is held. At 11 a.m. Skipbo is played. Both of these activities are free. Every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m., Dominos and 500 cards are played. Both of these games cost $2 to play. Every Thursday evening 500 cards are played at 6:30 p.m. The first and third Friday, at 1 p.m., we play 12 games of social Bingo. You get two cards for 12 games for $2. There is a 100-percent cash prize payback for Bingo. Every Friday at 10 a.m., Bridge is played. It is free. All activities are open to the community regardless of age. Stop by the senior center for a monthly calendar of events or a cup of coffee and a treat. Come and join the fellowship and fun. The senior center is available for private rentals for a very reasonable fee and community events. Call 715-483-3466 for more information.
w ww.th e-leade r.n e t
PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER The recycling loop isn’t complete until the materials collected at curbside and drop-off sites are remanufactured into new products and (now here’s the important part) purby chased consumers. Look for the words postconsumer when shopping. Post-consumer means that the product is made from materials collected through recycling programs...like ours. While watching for this wording helps, not every product made from recycled content is labeled as such. In fact, you may be buying recycled without even knowing it. Many things you buy are made with recycled materials and do not always advertise it. For example: • cereal, cookie and cracker packages; • canned foods and beverages; • detergent and cleaningsupply containers; • glass containers; • household paper products, such aspaper towels and bathroom tissue; • writing paper, note pads,greeting cards and other stationery supplies; • carpeting; • plastic flowerpots, trash cans,recycling bins and fencing; • packing boxes; • re-refined motor oil; • insulation in ski jackets, gloves and sleeping bagsmade from recycled PET bottles. Polar Fleece was the first of such fabrics created from recycled plastic bottles. Millions of bottles have been recycled to make this fabric. As technology improved, Polartec came along as an against-the-skin material. Many
Jen Barton Earth Notes
manufacturers of outdoor clothing and gear are putting these fabrics to good use. I personally own a couple of different types of PCR material clothing. In fact, one of my favorite companies to purchase outdoor clothing from is Patagonia. In 1993, Patagonia adopted fleece into their product line made from postconsumer recycled plastic soda bottles. They were the first outdoor clothing manufacturer to do so. PCR clothing is a positive step towards a more sustainable system – one that uses fewer resources, discards less and better protects people’s health. Over the course of 13 years, Patagonia saved some 86 million soda bottles from the garbage. Patagonia also has a really neat take-back program called Common Threads Garment Recycling Program through which customers can return their worn out Capilene® Performance Baselayers to them for recycling. The program started in 2005, and has been able to expand the list of recyclable garments to include worn out Patagonia® fleece, Polartec® fleece clothing (from any maker), Patagonia cotton T-shirts, and now some additional polyester and nylon six products that come with a Common Threads tag. If you want to know more about this awesome clothing program please visit: www.patagonia.com. As a suggestion for a great New Year’s Resolution: Become more aware of your purchases. You will find that you really don’t need to buy as much and you will prefer quality when you do buy. This has worked out for me. I function better and am happier without so many things. And what I do have are items I really love. Everything we do pollutes or taxes the Earth in some way. It’s a sad and inescapable fact. But there are things we can do as individuals and businesses to lighten our impact on the environment, such as buying and throwing away less, reusing products whenever possible and recycling everything we can. Make it your mission!
Orange
Fran Krause Written for last week
Written for this week
Marvel Merriam spent Christmas Eve with Mark and Julie Freeborn and family at River Falls. On Christmas Day, all the Gravesen family were at the Greg Gravesen home in St. Croix Falls. John and Reeny Neinstadt spent Christmas Eve with Bud and Natalie Flagstad and family. The Flagstads went to Bud’s parents’ home at Bethel, Minn., Christmas Day. They had their Christmas get-together with Sandy and Lamar Johnson
and family at Cadott, Friday and Saturday. Mallory Peterson is home from University of Minnesota for the holidays. The Dean Peterson family from Clear Lake, Iowa, are spending a week at their cabin. They and Maxine Stone attended the Christmas Eve service at the Methodist church. Dean and Mary Jo entertained Ed and Carol Peterson, Maxine Stone and the Brad Petersons for Christmas breakfast and opening gifts. Pam and Brad entertained them for Christmas Day dinner. Christmas Day guests with Jack and Jeri Witzany were Betty Kulbeck, Elaine Paulus, and son Mike Witzany who is spending a few days with them. Mike and Tylyn O’Brien had dinner with Jack and Lavonne Christmas Day. The O’Brien Christmas get-together with all seven of the O’Brien children was held on Sunday, Dec. 28, at Jack and Lavonne’s. Daughter Sue and Larry Mattson came from Austin, Texas, to spend a few days. Kent and Nancy Krause spent Christmas Day at the Tom Ammends in Spooner. Naomi Glover and Fran Krause were Christmas Day guests with the Mark Krause family. On Monday, Dec. 29, relatives and friends stopped by the Brad Peterson home with best wishes for Maxine Stone on her 99th birthday. Congratulations!
Everybody is complaining about the brain drain. It appears the smartest of the smart migrate to “other” places or to vocations that don’t contribute to humanity; like politics or the performing arts or they become lawyers. We need more scientists and engineers; they have to have good memories. Apparently the “brainiest” aren’t being recruited by the occupations that need them; they don’t know where to find them. What good does it do to be good in math if you can’t remember anything? I don’t want a surgeon operating on me that can’t remember what she had for lunch. I stopped into Bean’s and saddled up to the counter. Stephanie cheerfully
Malcom is a 6-year-old, steel gray toy poodle. He is a jaunty French fellow with spunk to spare. He loves to sit in your lap and take in the attention. Malcom is housetrained and is good with children, cats, dogs and would make a fantastic companion to a senior citizen. He has all the charm required and then some. With the new year about to begin, it is a great time to adopt a household companion and share the long cold winter ahead. The Arnell kennels are full of wonderful adoptable cats and dogs. Bandit and Boots are extra-large brown tabby boys with gentle personalities. Sally and Sophie are respectively, longhair and shorthair brown tabby and white spayed females with qualities as different as their coat length. Sally is elegant and sophisticated, and Sophie is full of fun. Jarrod is a blue-gray Persian with a gentle, friendly nature. Black Bean and Tristan are all about the petting, actually, all they can get. And Clyde is orange tabby and white in the huge category. All of these cats are healthy and ready to become a member of the family, yours. The dog kennel has an equally varied population of fantastic dogs. Milo and Moose are 1-year-old males. Milo is a husky-shepherd mix, and Moose is a
came over and said, “The usual?” I said, “Cripes, it’s too early for a quiz” I hadn’t been in there for some time, so I thought; maybe it’s something new on the menu. I said, “What is the usual”? She said, “You usually have the one, number easy over with sausage, wheat toast, grape jelly and coffee with cream, do you still use Tabasco?” If NASA discovers this secret, I may be waiting on myself.
Brooke Biedinger Irregular
Columnist
chocolate Labboxer mix. Both are housetrained and anxious to find a family. Fergie is a 2-year-old brown black tipped husky with piercing blue eyes. She is a honey and loves to be with people. Elvis is a young Border collie-pit bull. He is incredibly smart and has been taught many tricks. He would make an excellent agility or fly ball pup. Koda Bear is a purebred American Eskimo male. Koda is a friendly little guy. He is housetrained and knows many commands including dance and speak. Pogo is a solid liver German shorthair pointer. Pogo has gentleman manners and relishes any and all attention. He is a family dog. Also available are black Lab mix puppies, 8 weeks and 12 weeks. If you have been waiting until after Christmas to adopt, Arnell is ready and waiting for you to meet our adoptable animals. Visit them at the shelter or online: arnellhumane.org
Arnell Humane Society Happy Tails
Await
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John Neinstadt came home for the holidays. He and Reeny spent the weekend with Sandy and Lamar Johnson and family at Cadott. Lavonne O’Brien had lunch with Heather Wade in Danbury on Thursday. Dave and Theresa Childers visited Jack and Lavonne Sunday. Allyson and Kathryn Krause came home from college between semesters. Patty and Mike Kringen and family and Chris and Melody Witzany and family had their Christmas celebration at Jack and Jeri Witzany’s over the weekend. Karen and Jerry Hintz, Cassie and Karl came on Sunday night to visit the Krauses for a couple of days and celebrate Christmas. On Monday afternoon, Karen and Fran Krause visited with Maxine Stone.
LaVonne O’Brien
Brain drain
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Make it your mission
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9
What's the deal with Leo? ST. CROIX FALLS - Fans from all around the region will converge at Festival Theatre on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 9 and 10, to experience solo concerts by the legendary guitarist Leo Kottke. There seem to be just two categories of people when it comes to a Leo Kottke concert: those who know him and those who don’t. When Festival Theatre presented Kottke in 2007, the single concert sold out fairly quickly and many fans found themselves begging for tickets. In negotiating the 2009 appearance, executive director Danette Olsen looked for a potential two-night stand and when sales took off again, the second date was added. Olsen has long been a big fan of Kottke’s music, but in watching the high interest in his St. Croix Falls concerts, she became intrigued with knowing more about his audience. “The first ticket buyer was at our box office within 15 minutes of the tickets going on sale back in August,” said Olsen. “A local connection made him aware that tickets were going on sale and he made the trip from Minneapolis so he could have what he considers perfect seats within a perfect venue to experience Leo Kottke in a live concert setting. Another fan has never been to Festival Theatre, but he learned of the concerts through Kottke’s Web site. When he saw that the event coincides with his birthday, he bought a pair of tickets to both concerts!” Just over half of the current Kottke ticket holders will be attending a Festival Theatre event for the first time and, like the audience patterns for Festival in general, about 45 percent are from Minnesota and 55 percent from Wisconsin. The theater is seeing an increased number of attendees coming from southwest metro cities such as Chaska, Excelsior and Burnsville. Olsen thinks that this is a result of three things: strong programming, excellent destination marketing and a high-quality experience when visiting St. Croix Falls. “Face it, you can present an amazing act like Leo Kottke, but if people who have never been to Festival Theatre have no way to learn about the concert and if they come to our region but have a negative experience with dining or lodging options, well it’s really challenging to build an audience,” said Olsen. “We are blessed to have the combination of St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls at the epicenter of a visitor experience which adds many amenities to a performing arts outing: great lodging and dining choices along with wonderful outdoor recreation and shop-
Leo Kottke ping options. Our patrons are quite vocal in sharing their delight in finding so many lovely galleries, specialty shops and places to eat.” Which leads us back to Kottke and his magnetic draw. For the people who don’t know who he is or why he’s worth the $50 ticket on a potentially cold January night, Kottke’s fans find that it is simply a rare opportunity to see greatness up close and personal. Few artists achieve what Kottke finds both a “mysterious and uncomfortable” place of becoming a legend in his own time. With 30 albums to his credit that don’t fit conveniently into the bins at record stores, Leo Kottke is truly an enigma and that’s a good thing. For the past three decades, Kottke has been wholly focused in his pursuit of a unique musical vision that has placed him among the foremost acoustic guitar stylists of our time - or of any other, for that matter. “It was Pete Seeger’s recording of “The Banks of Marble” that first got me excited about the 12-string guitar many years ago,” said Kottke, and it is just that ability to embrace folk along with pop, jazz and classical that makes him unique among guitar virtuosi. For all its technical brilliance, wicked syncopation and harmonic sophistication, Kottke’s music is eminently accessible. At heart he’s a populist. This has been clear ever since the guitarist’s 1969 debut, “12-String Blues,” recorded live at a Minneapolis folk club. Kottke’s 1971 major label debut,
“Mudlark,” and seminal “6- and 12-String Guitar” (1972) announced the arrival of a major new voice in acoustic guitar instrumental music. Performing in a venue like Festival Theatre is a great experience for performer and audience alike. It has the intimacy of a club (with seats from six to 60 feet from the stage) and stellar acoustics thanks to a circa 1935 installation of acoustic tiles when the “talkies” came to the building which was being used as a single-screen movie house at the time. During his 2007 concert, Kottke literally kicked off his shoes and said it would be like performing in the living room. Then he went on to be magical, managing to combine jazz, classical, folk and blues elements into his playing style in such a seamless manner as to make it appear effortless; except you are constantly astounded by the underlying musical mastery. He is particularly powerful with the unanticipated rest, a moment of silence dropped into the cascade of notes that somehow sets everything into perfect focus. One reviewer described him in this way following a concert in Portland, Maine, “On stage, Kottke appears so relaxed and completely himself as to erase any sense of distance between himself and the audience. Nevertheless, he is obviously a consummate performer and keeps the crowd entranced and often lost in laughter throughout the night. A natural storyteller who actually assumes his audience is literate and intelligent, Kottke tells tales that are hilarious, believable and illuminating. The number of musicians who could spend at least five minutes telling a shaggy dog story about the writings of John Aubrey (an aristocratic 17th century English diarist who was a contemporary of Samuel Pepys) while ‘noodling’ on his guitar, and have the audience in the palm of his hand, is slender indeed.” The Kottke concert officially kicks off Festival Theatre events for 2009. On Valentine’s Day audiences can enjoy the Frostbite Follies and then in March, the Sweet Colleens will be in concert on March 21 to celebrate St. Patty’s Day. Tickets for Leo Kottke in concert are $50 in advance or $60 at the door – if not sold out. Concert times are 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 9 and 10. Tickets are available online at festivaltheatre.org or by calling Festival Theatre at 715-483-3387 or 888-887-6002. Dining, lodging and shopping options can be found on the Web site as well. - submitted
Frederic School District
475466 18-19L
A number of students and parents of the Frederic High School students are looking for an adult individual interested in helping them organize a dance line group. This would be a volunteer position and the individual would be responsible for developing a dance line and the responsibilities would include organizing tryouts, selecting a team, developing routines and working with the administration and athletic department when planning performances. Questions concerning the position and requirements can be directed to the high school office at 715-327-4223. Applications, resume and credentials can be sent to: Ray Draxler, Principal Frederic 7-12 School 1437 Clam Falls Drive Frederic, WI 54837 Deadline for applications is January 9, 2008. The Frederic School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
474973 17-20L
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475764 19L 475770 19Lp
PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS St. Croix Falls Public Library The Big Read is back! Our Big Read selection is the 1903 classic “The Call of the Wild,” by Jack London. Jerked from his comfortable home and sold as a sled dog, Buck’s harsh journey through the Klondike wilderness leads him back to his instinctual roots. Adventure, perseverance, and survival play prominent roles in this unforgettable tale, a familiar parallel to the profit-seeking fur traders, lumberjacks and settlers of the St. Croix Valley. Mark your calendar for the Klondike Kick-off Event, Jan. 24, 2009, 1-4 p.m., at the Wert Family Nature Center and the St. Croix Scenic National Riverway Visitor Center. Featuring: Guided tours, literary and folk arts activities, sled dog demos and a program. One in a Hundred – Win a gift certificate for a Traditional Rug Braiding Class at In the Wool. This one-day class will teach you how to make a traditional braided rug from wool fabric. Class includes instruction, braiding clamp, lacer, lacing thread, wool for 2-by-3 oval rug or a 3-by-3 round rug. A $195 value. Tickets are $1 at the library. Only 100 tickets will be sold! Buy a ticket for a
yourself, or a friend – it’s worth a chance. There is still time to make a tax-deductible donation for 2008. Make a donation honor of someone you care for or a person who has made an impact on your life. A great way to say best wishes for the season! When a memorial contribution or honor gift is received, we will send an acknowledgment card bearing your name to whomever you designate. All contributions are tax deductible. Donate online, pick up a form at the library or contact Sarah Adams, library director, for more details or to make gift arrangements. Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, except Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed on Sunday. 715-4831777. E-mail: scflibrary@ifls.lib.wi.us. Online: www.stcroixfallslibrary.org. The library will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1.
Clear Lake Public Library Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday: 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Friday: noon -
5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. We can be reached by phone at 715263-2802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.
Milltown Public Library Rescheduled event Terry Fisk, the co-author of “Wisconsin Road Guide to Haunted Locations,” has rescheduled his presentation at the Milltown Public Library. Please join us on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m., for this hair-raising event. Book club Calling all bibliophiles! The Milltown book club will gather again on Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. No assigned books, no stodgy questions. This will be a time for book lovers to gather, share and inspire. We’ll post all the discussed books on our Web site. Gamers club Play with the new Wii until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This is only open to high school and middle school teenagers who have a library card with under $10 in fines. We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast wireless Internet access. No library card necessary. Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. yearround. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books. There will be no story time Dec. 30 for holiday vacation.
Perk up We now proudly offer Wren Blend coffee at the Milltown Library all day, every day we’re open! This organic, fair trade coffee tastes fantastic. Meet with friends in our coffee lounge which now has extra seating, or surf the Web on your laptop while watching the hustle and bustle of Milltown’s Main Street. Our goal is to make your library the living room of the community – please check out and support this newest effort! Friends of the Library Take your love of the Milltown Library to the next level by joining the Friends of the Milltown Public Library. Learn more about this new group at their next meeting, open to the public, on Thursday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m. This group can use as much or as very little of your time and talents as you care to give. A friends group will benefit the library by assisting with fundraisers, advising the director on library programs, and making the library eligible for more grants. Please call the library at 715-825-2313 if you are interested in the Friends of the Milltown Public Library. Happy holidays The library will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. Hours The library hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Sunday closed.
Balsam Lake Public Library
Frederic Public Library Holiday schedule The library will be closed Jan. 1. Special New Year’s Eve hours will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31. The library staff extends greetings of the season to all! Movie time at the library The library will show movies on the big screen during school vacation, and everyone is invited. Here is the movie schedule: Tuesday, Dec. 30, 3 p.m., “Evan Almighty,” rated PG, 96 minutes; Friday, Jan. 2, 3 p.m., “Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Beginning,” rated G, 77 minutes. We need yarn for Operation Warm and Toasty Operation Warm and Toasty is a secondary project of the Cookie Brigade, an area nonprofit organization that sends homemade cookies to our servicemen and women. Words of gratitude have been recently received from military personnel who have distributed the hats and leg-warmers to wounded soldiers being flown from Iraq to hospitals in Germany. You can become part of this worthwhile program by visiting the library to pick up pattern information for the projects, or by contributing yarn for Operation Warm and Toasty. The yarn basket is empty, and we would like to fill it up. Story time resumes Jan. 7 After a short break, story time begins
again Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 10:30 a.m., when preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to attend an hour of stories, crafts and music. If you’re interested in being an occasional reader at story time, please let us know – we’ll provide the books, and you’ll provide the voice. Giving a gift to the library ‘Tis the season when many people generously give to their favorite charities and nonprofit groups. Consider the library when you make your year-end contributions – it’s as easy as writing a check, and we can give you a receipt for tax purposes. A gift of $100 or more will provide you the opportunity to have a leaf engraved in memory or in honor of loved ones and added to the donor tree plaque in the library entrance as a lasting remembrance. If you are interested in creating a donor leaf, please contact the library director to discuss your wishes. Wireless Internet access available The library offers free wireless Internet access for those who bring in their laptops, and the fresh, hot coffee is free, too. Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West. 715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular open hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Polk County Library Federation The director is Colleen Gifford, assistant director/youth services is Molly Kessler and the library clerk is Stephanie Fansler. Please call the Polk County Library Federation for more information,
715-485-8680. The Polk County Library Federation is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Amery Public Library “Liberty,” by Garrison Keillor. The Fourth of July in Lake Wobegon has always been a big event. Last year, they even made a CNN newscast with their living flag. Chairman Clint Bunsen has hired crack drum and bugle corps, wagons pulled by percheron horses and a mighty fireworks barrage paid for by Homeland Security funds. Clint, while having trouble with his committee, has a blood test done to determine his ethnicity and find out his genetic background. He receives the test results to find out that he is part Spanish. Spanish! Maybe his whole quiet life in Lake Wobegon has been a sham and he really is a hot-blooded Hispanic. He starts a correspondence on the Internet with a young woman and suddenly his life is out of control. What about Irene, the woman he has been married to for so many years? Keillor strikes at the heart of smalltown America with his stories, our dreams, our despairs and our exaltations. “Liberty” has humor with a bite.
meets on Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. to discuss “The Tortilla Curtain,” by T. Corregesson Boyle. Pick up a copy of the book at the circulation desk. The books are available now. Join us for book talk and fellowship. The Otaku Club meets on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. for teens and older who love manga, anime and gaming. Stop in and check it out if you are interested in these. things. The Friends of the Library have their January meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12. The Amery Area Public Library still has Ameryopoly games available for sale as a fundraiser for the library expansion for $25. The Friends also have T-shirts and book bags if you need a quick gift. Teens Read will be joining St. Croix Falls Big Read reading Jack London’s “Call of the Wild,” on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Stop in for a snack and book talk if you are 13 or older. Books are available at the circulation desk.
Library notes Storytime will resume on Wednesday, Jan. 7, after a two-week hiatus because the holidays fell on Wednesdays. Everyone is welcome for songs and stories with Elaine at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday mornings. Stop in to meet other parents of small children. The Friends of the Library Book Group
Library hours Hours will be Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Holiday hours: Closed Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. So stock up before the holidays.
Osceola Public Library
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11
POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS
Balsam Lake Public Library Holiday hours We will close at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Happy holidays to everyone. Story time No story time on Wednesday, Dec. 24 or 31. Story time is at 11 a,m, every Wednesday here at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks. Food shelf We are now a food donation drop-off site for Loaves and Fishes food shelf, which serves Luck and Unity school district. Our food for fines in November brought in 200 pounds for the food shelf because people brought food even if they had no fines - so we decided to be a drop-off site. Each bag of food that goes to a family needs canned meat, canned fruit, peanut butter, can of juice, box or bag of cereal, toilet paper and soap. Book club Our selection for January is “Raising Hell for Justice,” by David Obey “A stirring memoir of a political warrior who has spent four decades fighting
for social justice. But Obey’s book is also indispensable reading for those of all political persuasions who wish to understand how Congress has functioned and sometimes not functioned - in modern times. Wisconsin Badgers will also relish the light Obey casts on the politics of his state and his elegiac memories of student life at its university.” - Graham K. Wilson, chair, Department of Political Science, University of Wisconsin – Madison. Book club will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m. New books “Scarpetta,” by Patricia Cornwell, “Your Heart Belongs to Me,” by Dean Koontz, “Good Woman,” by Danielle Steel, “Tis the Season,” by Lorna Landvik, “Small Town Christmas,” by Debbie Macomber. 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. – 4 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.
Luck Public Library Happy 2009 St. Croix Valley Family Resource Center still has two openings for its Luck Library Parenting group. The group meets Thursdays from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at the Luck Public Library. For more information about the group and to preregister, please call the St. Croix Valley Family Resource Center at 715-684-4440. New classes will begin Jan. 8, 2009. New Hours Luck Public Library will begin their new hours Jan. 2, 2009. We will be open from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Thursday. Fridays we will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday we will be open from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bookmarks with our new hours are available at the library. Preschool story hour will be from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays. Food For Fines is over now, but we would like to thank everyone who opted to pay their library overdue fines with food this month. Together we collected over 400 items to be donated to the local food shelf. What a great way to begin the new year. Kid Yoga will be held at the Luck Library Thursdays at 1 p.m. from Jan. 8 – Feb. 12. This class is being offered
through Luck Community Ed. Recommended ages is 18 months – 5 years of age. Parents and kids will learn the basic concepts such as breathing and yoga posture as well as some child appropriate yoga positions. Course fee is $13.71 per parents/ child team. For multiple children in the same family, each additional child is $4. Call 4722152 ext. 103 for more information or to register. Dec. 6 was Santa Days at the Luck Library. We have many unclaimed photos of children with Santa. Perhaps one of these photos is your child. If you think there is a possibility that we have your child’s photo, please come to the library and look through the photo disc. Things with Strings / Knitting group meets every Wednesday at the Luck Library from 3 – 6 p.m. Join us for all or part of the time. We love newcomers. Come, chat, share and relax. Everyone welcome. Bring your projects. Hours Monday 1-5 p.m., Tuesday 1-8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 1-8 p.m., Friday 1-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-noon.
Dresser Public Library
Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009. The Dresser Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting Monday, Jan. 12, 2009, at 6:30 p.m., at the library.
adopted a cell phone usage policy on Nov. 27. Cell phone use is prohibited in the library. Please set your cell phone to vibrate rather than ring, then step outside to conduct your conservation.
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. The library will be closed New Year’s Day. Happy New Year.
Great news We are now wireless. Log onto the public library icon on your laptop to access the internet.
Three Internet computers You must physically present a MORE library card to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer. We are experiencing sporadic difficulty with our public access computers. Please be patient as we try and determine the problem and alleviate it. Great news! We are now wireless! Log onto the “Public Library” icon on your laptop’s desktop to access the Internet. Cell phone policy The Dresser Library Board of Trustees
Coming up Story time for lap-sitters and preschoolers returns Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, 10-11 a.m. Join us for stories, crafts and fingerplays. Crochet class for beginners is held each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. New members of all ages are welcome! Contact us: 715-755-2944 telephone and fax number, e-mail us at dresserpl@ifls.lib.wi.us, or visit our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org, which has information about story time, days closed, reference links, library policy and community information.
Osceola Public Library Library closed/early closing The library will be closed all day on Thursday, Jan. 1, and will close at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31. Have a fun and safe holiday. Adult winter reading program Cold nights, hot reads. January through March 2009. You’re reading great books anyhow, you might as well get some fine incentives out of it. Starting Monday, Jan. 5, register at the Osceola Public Library. Read a book, any book, and report back to the library. For your first, third and fifth completed titles you will receive a special gift. You must be 17 years of age or older and audio books count. Book discussion “The Secret Life of Bees,” by Sue Monk Kidd, will be discussion Tuesday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m. Set in the American South in 1964, the year of the Civil Rights Act and intensifying racial unrest, Kidd’s novel is a powerful story of coming-ofage, of the ability of love to transform our lives, and the often unacknowl-
edged longing for the universal feminine divine. Share in the discussion. Family story times Story time is held on Wednesdays at 6 p.m., and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Toddlers through second-graders and an accompanying adult are invited to join Tiffany every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning for a themed half hour of fun, songs and stories. Preschool story time Preschool story time is Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers and an accompanying caretaker are welcome to join director Nate on Thursday mornings for a half hour of stories and fun. Hours, contact Our hours are Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.
Centuria Public Library New services at the Centuria Public Library Recently, the Centuria Public Library has had the equipment necessary to offer wireless Internet services to the public installed. If you own your own laptop and wish to log onto the Internet, you can do it right from the library. No library card is needed. In addition to the free wireless Internet access, the Centuria Public Library has been given through the support of the Unity Lions Club, a CCTV reader machine, which enlarges print for indi-
viduals with vision problems. This machine is available to be used by anyone that requires the magnification of print free of charge and without the use of a library card. Gratitude is extended to the Unity Lions Club for providing this reader machine to the Centuria Public Library. Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 5 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 7 p.m.; Wednesday: noon - 5 p.m.; Thursday: noon - 7 p.m.; Friday: closed; and Saturday: 10 a.m. - noon.
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PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Amery woman among service academy nominations AMERY – U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold announced that Margaret Budke of Amery is among 49 young Wisconsin men and women he has nominated for appointments to our nation’s service academies: the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Ind., the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., the Military Academy at West Point, N. Y., and the Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N. Y.
Each applicant went through a rigorous selection process that led up to his or her nomination. The process included providing their academic record, letters of recommendation, writing a detailed essay and interviewing before an academy selection committee. “I am pleased to nominate these individuals from across Wisconsin,” Feingold said. “I congratulate and wish them all the best as they go forward in the ap-
pointment process at the different service academies. Their desire to serve their country is admirable.” Applicants started the screening process in the spring of this year and were rated on a number of issues including scholarship, character and leadership potential. The academies will announce their appointees within the next few months for the class entering in July 2009. - from the office of Sen. Feingold
Wintertime idling of Chrysler factory not unusual, says town offificcial KENOSHA - The doors are temporarily shutting at the Chrysler engine plant in Kenosha. But Mayor Keith Bosman says an upcoming monthlong shutdown is only a week longer than the car maker usually closes during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Bosman says many of the 800 workers at the engine
plant will get most of their pay and benefits. He says the monthlong layoff does make him think what would happen if Chrysler and other U.S. car markers don’t get a federal bailout. Bosman recently went to Washington, D.C.,to encourage Congress and the White House to help Chrysler,
Ford and General Motors. He says he also went to discuss job retraining efforts for laid-off workers. Chrysler and Ford this week announced monthlong shutdowns at all their plants. GM is delaying building a new factory in Michigan. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Chuck Quirmbach)
Travel safe year are stressing the importance of preparations due to frigid temps, dangerous wind chills and dicey roads. Two Wisconsin men died in separate incidents over the weekend after their vehicles were stranded in the bitter cold. Their sad stories offer a sobering reminder why heeding this advice is so crucial. Kamholtz says you can’t afford to forget the safety essentials. First, inspect your car, clear all of the snow and ice off
including headlights, signals and brake lights. Fill up the gas tank and keep it pretty full. And Kamholz says a surprisingly simple but potential lifesaver is a candle inside a coffee can, which can create a significant amount of heat in a vehicle for a long period of time. Above all, Kamholz says to drive slow and safe, and leave plenty of time. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Kristen Durst)
OPEN HOUSE 50th Anniversary Harold & Virginia Sommerfeld
Hacker’s Lanes & Banquet Hall Sat., Jan. 3, 4 p.m. All are invited No gifts, please Music 7:30 p.m. by Frank Gust
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STATEWIDE - Holiday travel this year is coinciding with some pretty rough winter weather. Even though you may be in a rush to pack up your sleigh and hit the road, now more than ever, preparations count. You’re supposed to have some extra clothes, a blanket, maybe a little food tucked away in your car for emergencies. But Larry Kamholz of the Wisconsin AAA suspects that many of us don’t. Kamholz and authorities this
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13
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2008/from page 2 presented “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” •Mac the K-9 officer dog for Polk County retired after eight years. •Polk County Supervisor Robert Blake was recognized for six years of helping the sheriff’s department at a public protection committee meeting. •Local responders officer Jared Cockroft and EMT Josh Rau performed two-person CPR, saving the life of a 3-year-old who had nearly drowned at the Holiday Inn Express in St. Croix Falls. •A passenger bus leaving the Turtle Lake Casino caught fire traveling on Hwy. 8 with over 45 passengers on board, but no one was hurt and emergency responders were able to put out the fire, and the bus was a total loss. •Burnett County public safety committee members heard a plea for more prosecutors because the county has a shortage. •Siren held the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. •St. Croix Falls and Dresser held Easter Egg hunts. •Burnett
BUS FIRE - A leak in its fuel system is the suspected cause of this bus fire on Hwy. 8 at 110th Avenue on the afternoon of March 5. Between 45 and 50 passengers were evacuated and uninjured. - Special photo
PROMOTION, PROMOTION, PROMOTION - A new billboard went up in April along Hwy. 35 at Frederic to promote that village’s two-day snowmobile watercross event held each summer on Coon Lake. - Special photo INTERACTIVE BUNNY - The Easter Bunny climbed the monkey bars at Lions Park in St. Croix Falls to hand out candy and greet kids ready to look for eggs hidden in the snow. Photo by Tammi Milberg
County Moose Lodge hosted an Easter Egg hunt. •Siren Floral and Gifts opened on Main Street. •A crowd gathered in Frederic to hear options for the 50-year-old community pool.
NEW SURGERY CENTER - An open house was held in April to showcase St. Croix Regional Medical Center’s new Lloyd Olson Surgery Center at their complex in St. Croix Falls. The center is named after retired surgeon Dr. Lloyd Olson, who was guest of honor at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photo by Erik Barstow Photography
April •The Webster High School forensics team was headed to state competition. •The Siren High School drama club presented “The Music Man.” •Burnett Dairy hosted customer appreciation day. •Luck students presented their annual montage of mini-plays during “The Show.” •Family practice Dr. Mark Boyken announced his retirement from St. Croix Regional Medical Center after 34 years. •Gene and Eunice Early were honorary chairs for the Finish Line walk/run in Frederic. •The Buzz coffee, bakery and sandwich shop opened on Main Street in St. Croix Falls. •Mike Gableman won a seat on he Supreme Court following the April election. •St. Croix Falls elected Darrell Anderson as their new mayor over incumbent Brad Foss. •Five incumbents were defeated as the Polk County Board of Supervisors welcomed nine new members following the election. •Burnett county elected four county board members including newcomers Priscilla Bauer, and Chuck Awe and incumbents Larry Main and Philip Lindeman. •A recount of ballots in Burnett County revealed that Larry Main was defeated in the election for county board by Harry Patneaude by two votes. •Statewide voters supported a referendum to do away with the Frankenstein veto. •Pastor Mark Peacock
FOR THE VETS - During 2008, DVDs4VETs arranged for the donation of more than 25,000 DVDs to various veterans hospitals, centers and clinics. Persons who donate 10 or more DVDs are acknowledged on a special honor roll. - Special photo retired from the United Methodist Churches in St. Croix Falls and Wolf Creek after 11 years. •A candlelight vigil was held in Frederic to recognize April as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month. •Noted historian Helen McCann White, known for her writings and publishing The Dalles Visitor, passed away at the age of 91. •Dresser Trustee Richard Durand retired from the village board after a combined 28 years on the board. •The Siren/Webster Rotary was awarded a challenge matching grant for the Crooked Lake Park band shell. •The United Pioneer Home in Luck celebrated 55 years of caring. •Members of the notorious Barker-Karpis Gang were noted as being tied to a 1932 murder near Webster according to a book by John Koblas titled, “MA: The Life and Times of
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2008/from previous page Ma Barker and Her Boys.” •Dale and Roxie Spaulding, Town of Dewey, hung up the plow and sold their family farm at an auction after 37 years. •Frederic students presented “Little Women.” •St. Croix Regional Medical Center hosted an open house for the new Lloyd Olson Surgery Center. •Howard Nolte was featured in a story about 50 years of keeping pipe organs in good playing condition. •The Taylors Falls Fire Relief Association held their annual smelt fry at the fire hall. •Brian Beseler was elected the Polk County Board of Supervisors chairman. •Former Frederic Athlete Marty Niles underwent emergency brain surgery to remove a tumor. •St. Croix Falls students performed in “Alice in Wonderland.” •Gerald Anderson, 80, passed away and was remembered as a commu-
GAS TOPS $4 A GALLON - Gas was advertised as costing an “arm and a leg” at the Oakland Store south of Danbury at one point during the summer of 2008. Mark Helin, who works at Oakland Store, said that a little humor has helped customers adjust to the price of gas. It was not just the customers who needed to adjust to the rise in gas prices. As with many older gas pumps, the pumps at Oakland Store did not go above $4 a gallon. Until new pumps arrived, Oakland Store was forced to charge by the half gallon. - Photo by Raelynn Hunter
W H A T T O D O WI T H T H E F R ED E R I C S W I M MING POOL? Frederic Superintendent Jerry Tischer (standing, background) watched as Polk County Environmental Health specialist Brian Hobbs (kneeling) inspected the Frederic community swimming pool in April as school maintenance supervisor Warren Peterson (L) and school board member Terry Taylor (R) looked on. - Photo by Gregg Westigard
nity man for 25 years of service to the Burnett County Board, 15 years on the Siren Fire Department, involvement in establishing Capeside Cove and Forts Folle Avione. •An education program for local school students was held for Earth Day along the St. Croix River by the St. Croix Scenice Riverway National Park Service. •The community of Webster mourned the loss of Charlie Tollander, longtime chair of the Burnett County Board of Supervisors who died unexpectedly at the age of 81. •Philip Lindeman was elected Burnett County Board chair. •Dave and Jane Pederson were named Frederic’s Citizens of the Year. •Tom Burnett Sr. and wife Beverly were keynote speakers at the Republican Party annual Lincoln Day Dinner, held in Dresser, to share stories of their son who was one of the heroes on Flight 93 on 911. •A lightening fire destroyed a cabin on Pine Lake Road in Frederic. •The Frederic kindergarten students put on the 40th-annual kindergarten circus. •Dale and Janice
Skow were named chairpersons for Luck’s Finish Line walk/run. •Burnett County Medical Center celebrated completion of phase one of the construction of its new emergency department, family practice and specialty clinic. • Mildred Lindquist Lindberg, St. Croix Falls, celebrated her 100th birthday. •Proms were held at Luck, Webster, Siren, Grantsburg, Frederic and Unity. •A blue ribbon walk to stop child abuse in Polk County was held in Milltown.
May •Gov. Jim Doyle visited Polk County and fished Lake Wapogasset for the fishing opener. •Leah Autumn Schaaf, 2, Jackson, passed away after she was injured in a vehicle backing accident. •Crossroad Antique Mall in Siren celebrated their 20th year in business. •Eileen Skinaway, Luck, was honored as the first recipient of the In-
ON CALL - Pilot Joel Martin of Galveston, Texas, and maintenance engineer Bruce Haukedahl of Detroit Lakes, Minn., stand by a fire plane that was stationed at the Burnett County Airport during the spring of 2008. The planes and crew are hired by the DNR yearly to help suppress wildfires in the wildfire-prone territory of Burnett County and the surrounding area. - Photo by Sherill Summer
WIND TURBINES BECOME A MORE FAMILIAR SITE IN 2008 - This wind turbine was installed in the spring of 2008 at a residence located at the intersection of 210th Street and 160th Avenue in the town of St. Croix Falls. This turbine is not the first of its kind, but it the second turbine located within a few miles of the first wind turbine in that area (George Pfaltzgraff property, in the city of St. Croix Falls). – Photo by Tammi Milspirational Life Story Award for making a difference locally and globally in St. Paul, Minn. •Clint Mosay, 22, Hertel, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for a 2005 stabbing that killed a 41-year-old woman. •Siren school held a Powwow. •Megan Kalmoe, St. Croix Falls graduate, found out she would be competing in the summer Olympics in Beijing with her rowing partner Ellen Tomek. •Friends and family of Chuck Pardun arranged a motorcycle ride for him as he fought the advanced stages of cancer, knowing he wanted to experience the thrill of a motorcycle ride again. •Counseling Associates of St. Croix Falls announced it would close its doors. •St. Croix Falls held their prom. •Former Grantsburg graduate LaVonne Seemann contributed $15,000 in scholarships to Grantsburg students. •The Burnett County Relay for Life took place. •A memorial service was held in Burnett County to honor three fallen officers, deputy Paul Gramer, Richard Schinzing and Alan Albee. •Molly Rushfeldt was crowned Honey Queen by the members of the PolkBurnett County Bee Association. •Twoyear-old Spencer (Tres) Daniels, Webster, was lucky to survive after receiving a kick in the face by a horse. •The Indianhead Chorus celebrated 50 years of singing. •Memorial Day observances were held throughout Leaderland. •Grantsburg Pirates softball earned a Regional Championship •Frederic softball girls earned their first-ever Regional Championship. •Unity Schools high school principal Bill Alleva, teacher Jackie Reynolds, teacher Brent Mathson, teacher Chuck Holicky, teacher Mike Morris, teacher Joey Nelson, teacher Nancy Glaim and counselor JoAnne Lilyquist retired. •Luann White and Elliot Paulsen were inducted in the Unity Wall of Honor. •Siren teachers Chris Erickson and Donna Tjader retired. •A head-on accident in Polk County claimed the life of John Robert Bryan, 27, Minnetonka, Minn. •The Frederic Pool closed for the season. •Gas
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15
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WI TH A LITTLE HELP FROM MY FRIENDS Friends and family of Chuck Pardun knew he wanted to experience the thrill of a motorcycle ride again, as he struggled with advanced cancer. On May 4, they took him on a ride from his home in rural Frederic to east of Siren and back. Pardun rode with his brother and wrote to friends and family a week later that “I think the smile is just now wearing off.” Pardun said he always liked riding motorcycle at the back of the group because he liked the sound of the bikes echoing off the trees. The ride was organized by Bruce Elmer of Danbury and Joe Hunter of Siren. The group paused for this photo at the midway point, Bobbie’s World on Hwy. 70 near Hertel. Pardun and his partner, Arlene Murtaugh, are shown standing in the front row, fourth and fifth from the right. Pardun passed away in September. Special photo
2008/from previous page prices reached new heights, forcing the Oakland Store to upgrade the pumps because they did not go above $4 a gallon. •Grantsburg Elementary students performed “Red Riding Hood.”
June •Siren Lions held a 39th anniversary party at Crooked Lake Park. •Denny Christianson announced his retirement from the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster after 27 years as a mortician. •Webster and Frederic Boys 4x800 relay teams too second and third place, respectively, at the state track meet. •St. Croix Falls celebrated National Trails Day and included a tour of the newly acquired Wert Nature Preserve. •The Burnett County Medical Center appointed a new CEO Gordon Lewis. •A “Most Wanted” criminal in Waco, Texas, was arrested in Polk County after operating a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent. •Grantsburg celebrated Big Gust Days and Bailey Volgren was crowned Miss Grantsburg. •Joyce and Darryl Nelson were the honorary co-chairs for the St. Croix Falls Relay For Life. •The Dresser Depot was saved from demolition and remodeled hosting an open house and train ride for the first time in 47 years. •A four-vehicle accident on Hwy. 8, resulted in a pontoon boat flipping onto the roadway and landing upside down and thankfully, there were only minor injuries to the persons involved in the chain-reaction collision. •Burnett County attorneys Ken Kutz and Dave Grindell announced their candidacy for the judge seat left vacant by Mike Gableman upon his appointment to the Supreme Court. •A new boardwalk along the south end of Coon Lake in Frederic was open to the public. •The Polk
County Junior Holstein Association celebrated Dairy Month by handing out free ice cream cones at MarketPlace Foods in St. Croix Falls. •Harold Owens, scion of the Owens Farms in Frederic, celebrated his 90th birthday. •The Clam Falls Lutheran Church celebrated 125 years of fellowship. •A dairy breakfast was held at the Kopecky Farm in Siren. •Nate Walker was the Burnett County Relay For Life’s honorary chair. •Frederic teacher Jeff Carley retired after 36 years. •Grantsburg teacher Josh Watt was selected as the teacher of the year by the Grantsburg Rotary Club. •Jason Cress was hired as the new high school principal for Unity Schools. •Centuria utility commissioner Glenn Melin was recognized for 34 years of service to the public power industry. •Mary Mack, aka Miki Budge, Webster native, appeared on the TV series “Last Comic Standing” as a contestant. •A search to find Keith Kennedy, 25, who disappeared at Trade Lake Camp near Grantsburg continued with authorities and volunteers trying to locate the autistic man. •Actress Michael Learned was an honored guest at a fundraising event at St. Croix Festival Theatre. •Frederic celebrated Family Days and Candace Buck was crowned Miss Frederic. •St. Croix Valley Good Samaritan Center celebrated 40 years of caring. •2006 Frederic graduate Brody Measner underwent surgery to remove a noncancerous ear nerve tumor. •Mother Linda Kennedy and father Bruce Kennedy were overjoyed as were rescue workers at the news that Keith Kennedy had been found alive and was rescued after missing near a Grantsburg camp for a week. •Amery Medical Center unveiled its new wound-healing center. •Jeff Bush, Grantsburg, was named the Insight School Administrator of the Year for his leadership and commitment to online
NO LUCK FOR GOVERNOR - Gov. Jim Doyle (center) didn’t catch any fish on Saturday, May 3, during the 43rd-annual Governor’s Fishing Opener on Lake Wapogasset, but fishing was difficult for everyone involved. Also pictured are Taylor Horton (L) and the governor’s guide George Sigsworth. - Photo by Marty Seeger education. •Milltown celebrated Fishermen’s Party Days and Alicia Minander was crowned Miss Milltown. •The Cushing Settlers Picnic was held with over 100 in attendance. •Art Johnson, St. Croix Falls, received his medal for service in the Korean War after 40 years of waiting. •Sarah Howe
was crowned Miss Siren. •Ken Kutz was appointed by Gov. Doyle as Burnett County Judge. Look for headlines and events from July to December 2008 in next week’s Leader: Year in Review Part II.
BOARDWALK ADDS TO PARK PROJECT - A boardwalk was added to the south end of Coon Lake in Frederic in June. The walkway was installed to make it safer for people walking between the east and west sides of the village park on Coon Lake and will become part of a planned walking trail around the entire lake. The village shared the cost of the project with the DNR in a 50/50 grant awarded to the village.- Photo by Gary King
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READY FOR A NAP - This barred owl looks as though he’s ready to nap in the early-morning sun after a long, cold night of hunting mice. - Photo by Carl Heidel
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PATRIOTIC PAUSE - A young man listens to the Memorial Day speeches at St. Croix Falls Cemetery. - Photo by Gary King
Suitable for framing: Some of our favorite shots of 2008
EXCITED GRAD - Excited Grantsburg graduate Emily Prazak gets a congratulatory hug from her proud mom, Bonnie, after her graduation ceremony. From the expressions on their faces, they both seem to be saying, “We did it.” Emily, was one of four graduating seniors who held a 4.0 gradepoint average all through high school. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer
JUST CHECKING - A curious Belgian checks a bucket for maple sap at the Dennis O’Donnell farm near Frederic. - Photo by Sherill Summer
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17
Happy Holidays
From All Of Us To All Of You
•
• Priscilla Bauer • Diane Dryden • Carl Heidel • Raelynn Hunter • Nancy Jappe • Suzanne Johnson • Regan Kohler • Tammi Milberg • Larry Samson• Marty Seeger • Brenda Sommerfeld • Mary Stirrat • Sherill Summer • Gregg Westigard
Vivian Byl, President Charles Johnson, Vice President Janet Oachs, Secretary-Treasurer Harvey Stower, Director Merlin Johnson, Director
• Rick Malecha • Jackie Moody • John Reed • Alice Schmidt • Jim Schott • Myrna Bistram • Cindy Carlson • Julie Dahling • Judy Ann Dittrich • Marlys Elrod • Millie Erickson • JoAnne Kittleson • Anne Lindquist • June Love • Judy Minke • Sue Buck • Shirley Christianson • Cindy Denn • Michelle Flaherty • Rita Frandsen • Katie Grey • Mary Hedlund • Connie Magnuson• Pam Nerby • Karen Niles • Sue Renno• Connie Rich • Laurie Schmidt • Becky Strabel • Jackie Thorwick • Bonnie Tjader • Pat Bates • Robert Beyer • Richard Brown • Carolyn Foltz • Kevin Hacker • Mike Lonetti • Lettie McDonough • Dave VanderHeyden • Peggy Dueholm • Tonie Horky • Michael Elrod • Robert Harrison • Barb Hoag • Tom Lahners • Wendy Larson • Jake Matz • Kerri Nielsen • Sue Pribula • Linda Raschick • Patty Roettger • Eugene Ruhn • Gary Schommer • Harmony Szurgot• Tony Wilson 474202 17r,L 7a-e,w
PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
NABA presents 2008 Building and Associate of the Year awards HAYWARD — The Northland Area Builders Association bestowed its highest honors to Kevin Miller, Northland Recreational Homes, Hayward, and Dan Campion, Johnson Lumber Company, Siren, at its annual holiday party in early December. Miller and Campion were named Builder of the Year and Associate of the Year respectively for their contributions to the association. Miller is an active NABA member who has given back to his community many times over. Miller serves on the NABA Board of Directors and often is the first
to lead community service projects such as the deck/ramp built onto the Sawyer County Historical Society and the Shue’s Pond Gazebo project in Hayward. Campion has been instrumental in creating Uniform Dwelling Contractor Inspection trainings in Burnett and Washburn counties. He has been an active recruiter for NABA in Burnett County and was key in creating the firstannual NABA Family Fun Day Trap Shoot and Pig Roast held this fall. The NABA Builder of the Year award recognizes a NABA member who makes
a commitment of time and talent through committee and program participation that helps strengthen the association for all its members. This builder represents the highest level of integrity and honesty in the home building industry. The NABA Associate of the Year award recognizes an associate NABA member who has made a significant contribution to the local home building industry during the year through volunteerism, member recruitment and sponsorships. The Northland Area Builders Associa-
Siren Lionesses Mitten Tree
tion is a nonprofit trade association serving Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer, and Washburn counties in Northwest Wisconsin. Chartered in 1989, the Northland Area Builders Association is comprised of industry professionals united and dedicated to preserving and promoting safe and affordable housing for the people of Northwest Wisconsin. For additional information, please contact Jennifer Johnson, executive officer, at 715-259-3486 or naba@centurytel.net. — from NABA
Future of Food series continues Amy Kaleita, an expert in agricultural engineering, will speak at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, in the Mitchell Auditorium on The College of St. Scholastica campus, Duluth. The public is welcome to the speech and a reception that follows. There is no charge for either event. Kaleita’s talk, Conventional Farming and Environmental Protection, is the third in the college’s Alworth Center for Peace and Justice Lecture Series for 20082009. The series, entitled The Future of Food, examines the complex food issues of hunger and obesity, safety, production and distribution, science and technology, politics and economics. Kaleita teaches courses in soil and water conservation management and engineering at Iowa State University in Ames. She has received several awards for excellence in teaching both at Iowa State and the University of Illinois where she earned her doctorate in agricultural engineering. The series is funded in part by the Lee and Rose Warner Foundation, the A.H. Zeppa Family Foundation, the Global Awareness Fund of the Duluth-Superior Area Community Foundation, Whole Foods Co-op of Duluth and the Reader Weekly. - from College of St. Scholastica
For over 20 years the Siren Lioness Club and U.S. Bank of Siren have hosted a mitten tree. Handmade mittens, hats and scarves are created by Siren Lioness members and others from the community. This year was particularly successful due the generosity of many knitters and yarn donations. A total of 142 pairs of mittens, 92 hats, and 75 scarves were donated to local area schools to keep those in need warm throughout the holiday season. Gratitude is extended to all who helped to make the Burnett County a little warmer this year. Pictured (L to R): Hazel Franseen, Lioness and knitter, Doni Johnson and Rhonda Koch from U.S. Bank in Siren. – Photo submitted
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STATEWIDE - The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says so far, hunters have donated about 6,500 deer to food pantries. But that’s actually down from last year. Laurie Fike is the statewide coordinator for the deer donation program. She says deer donations are down about 45 percent from 2007. Fike says that decline follows the trend of deer hunter registration, which dipped about
20 percent this season. Fike says she’s also heard that a lot of hunters were keeping the venison for themselves or giving it to friends and family. “In these hard times, and with people being laid off from work, there’s more need than ever at food pantries,” she says. “And I really hope that hunters continue to hunt through the end of the season and bring in more donations.” Fike adds this year’s amount of donated meat comes to about 45,000 pounds. Fike says the DNR also does random sampling of donated meat for lead, which can be a health hazard for pregnant women and children under 6 years old. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Christina Clarkson)
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19
Grantsburg kindergarteners visit Crex Meadows Visitors Center GRANTSBURG – Grantsburg’s Nelson School kindergarteners took a field trip to the Crex Meadows Wildlife Education and Visitor Center in Grantsburg recently for a presentation on Wisconsin forests. The students learned about types of trees, their various uses and animals living in the forests. – Priscilla Bauer
Crex Education and Visitor Center coordinator Kim Dauer read a story on forests to Nelson kindergarteners. Dauer’s daughter, Addie, enjoyed helping Mom tell the story. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer
Nelson kindergartener Isaac Lee got a kick out of the “flying” geese inside the Crex Education and Visitor Center during a visit he and classmates took to the center recently.
Nelson kindergarteners Jalen Goetz and Simon Bunting looked closely at a habitat exhibit during their visit to the Crex Education and Visitor Center in Grantsburg recently.
Kindergarteners McKenzie and Linda Harmon liked seeing a timber wolf closeup during their recent visit to the Crex Education Center in Grantsburg.
Webster kindergarteners learn about Hanukkah Emily Pierce, Ashley Oiyotte and Lainie Thoreen took a long look at the display of Crex waterfowl during their Nelson kindergarten visit to the Crex Wildlife Education and Visitor Center in Grantsburg.
Nathan Drohman looked at a display on Crex Meadows prairies during a visit with his Nelson School classmates to the Crex Education and Visitor Center. The kindergarten classes heard a presentation on Wisconsin forests, then toured the center to see habitat and animal displays.
The kindergarten classes at Webster have been learning about celebrations around the world during this time of year. Recently, the students learned about Hanukkah. Julie Yezek from the Burnett County Extension Office went to their classrooms and made latkes for the students. Taking a flipping lesson from Yezek is Kaytlyn Anderson from Mrs. Swenson’s classroom. The children enjoyed trying the latkes. – Photos submitted
PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Unity Community Education
To register and for more information for any Unity Community Education class, contact 715-825-2101, ext. 1560 or e-mail tworrell@unity.k12.wi.us. Ongoing classes Scuba Diving Instruction. Northland Equipment and Diving provides instruction and certification through Unity Community Education. Call for details. Water Aerobics. WITC catalog 42-807412. Six-week sessions, Tuesdays and Thursdays, beginning Jan. 6 (class #25071), Feb. 17 (class #24917), March 31 (class #24918) or May 12 (class #24919), 5 – 5:45 p.m. Cost: $33.12 ($4 seniors 62+). Please write check to WITC. Horse Riding Group Lessons at JJ Arena. Tuesdays, Jan. 6 - Feb. 24, 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. – Pee Wees (ages 7-9); 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Ready Riders (ages 14-17); Thursdays, Jan. 8 - Feb. 26, 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. – Pony Club (ages 10-13) and 6 to 7:30 p.m. – Horse Lovers (ages 18 and older). Cost: All classes require prepaid registration fees of $33.12 payable to WITC and prepaid horse/arena rental fee of $125 payable to JJ Arena. Instructor: Julie Jones. Fun with Feng Shui. Thursday, Jan. 8,
6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $16, registration fee to community education. Instructor: LaRae Fjellman. Working the room: How to move people to action through audience-centered speaking. WITC course #42-810-420, class #25068. Mondays, Jan. 12 – Feb. 2, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $28.26 playable to WITC ($4 seniors 62+). Instructor: Jim Renno. Historical Genesis. WITC course #42808-401, class #25070. Thursdays, Jan. 15 to Feb. 19, 6 – 8 p.m. Cost: $33.12 payable to WITC ($4 seniors 62+). Instructor: Jim Renno. Tribal Gypsy Dance. WITC course #60807-630, class #25396. Fridays, Jan. 16 to Feb. 20, 6 – 8 p.m. Cost: $37.60 payable to WITC. (No senior fee). Beginners to intermediate welcome. Oil Painting. WITC course #42-815-408, class #25392. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 20 to Feb. 5, 6 – 9 p.m. Cost: $47.64, payable to WITC ($4 seniors 62+). Material fee: $60, payable to community ed. Instructor: Allen Anderson. Microsoft Excel – The Very Beginning. WITC course #47-103-402, class #25394. Thursday, Jan. 22, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Cost:
Computer: Photoshop. Tuesday and Thursday, Jan. 6 and 8, 6 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Bryan Knauber. Fee: $28.26/$4 age 62+. Cross-country skiing. Saturdays, Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 10 a.m. to noon, beginners – intermediate; 1 to 3 p.m. – intermediate – expert. Instructor: Ian Karl. Fee: $18.56/$4 age 62+. Gypsy dance. Mondays, Jan. 12 – Feb. 16, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Instructor: Jenn Ramautar. Fee: $37.60. Jack London: Work and Life. The event is part of The Big Read. Mondays, Jan. 12 – Feb. 16, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Instructor: Dr. Carolyn Wedin. Fee: $42.82/$4 age 62+. Write Right Now! Tuesdays, Jan. 13 – Feb. 17, 4 – 6 p.m. Instructor: Dr. Carolyn Wedin. Fee: $33.12/$4 age 62+.
Movement to Music: Tiny Tots Clogging. Mondays, Jan. 19, 26, Feb. 2, 23, March 2 and 9. 10:45 – 11:15 a.m. at the senior center; 6:15 – 6:45p.m. at the elementary school. Instructor: Sheryl Keller. Fee: $35/6 weeks. Country Line Dancing and Clogging. (Low impact). Mondays, Jan. 16, 26, Feb. 2, 23, March 2 and 9. 10:15-10:45 a.m. p.m. at the senior center. Instructor: Sheryl Keller. Fee: $35/6 weeks. Beginning Clogging. Mondays, Jan. 19, 26, Feb. 2, 23, March 2, 9. 6:45 – 7:30 p.m. at the elementary school. Instructor: Sheryl Keller. Fee: $45/6 weeks. Beginning Yoga. Tuesdays, Jan. 20 – Feb. 24, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Instructor: Sandy King. Location: TBA. Fee: $18.56/$4 age 62+.
$13.71 payable to WITC ($4 seniors 62+). Instructor: Tanna Worrell. Introduction to the Art of Chair Seat Weaving. WITC course #60-304-600, class #25599. Tuesday, Feb. 10, 6 – 8 p.m. Cost: $9.60 payable to WITC. Instructor: Andrea Hildebrandt. Working the Room: Practice. WITC course #42-810-410, class #25069. Mondays, Feb. 16 to March 2, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $23.41 payable to WITC ($4 seniors 62+). Instructor: Jim Renno. Prerequisite: Working the Room: Audience-centered speaking. Red Cross Swimming Lessons. Saturdays, Feb. 14 through March 21. Cost: $28 per student registration fee to community education (including preschool and infant classes, which are only 30 minutes). Registration deadline is noon, Thursday, Feb. 12. No late registrations will be accepted. Level One: 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.; Level Two: 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.; Level Three and up: 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.; Prelevel One, typically for ages 3 – 5: 9-9:30 a.m., 9:45 – 10:15 a.m. or 10:30 – 11 a.m. Infants age 6 months to 3 years. A parent will accompany the child in the water – 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Chair Seat Weaving Workshop. WITC
Frederic Community Education
Yoga for Seniors. Tuesdays, Jan. 20 – Feb. 24, 11 a.m. – noon. Instructor: Sandy King. Location: TBA. Fee: $18.56/$4 age 62+. Yoga to Restore and Calm for beginners. Tuesdays, Jan. 20 – Feb. 24, 6 – 7 p.m. Instructor: Sandy King. Fee: $18.56 /$4 age 62+. Knitting Mittens and Gloves. Mondays, Jan. 26, Feb. 2 & 9, 6 – 8 p.m. Instructor: Konnie Didlo. Fee: $18.56/$4 age 62+. Star Gazing. Instructor: Mike Lynch. Watch for information. Drivers Education. Classroom course with Safe Start Driving School begins Feb. 23. Adult Basic Education - earn your HSED. Instructor: Kessea Karl. Call: CE at
course #60-304-600, class #25400. Prerequisite: Intro to Chair Seat Weaving, offered at Unity or Luck. Tuesday, March 10 to 31, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $32 payable to WITC. Material fee depending upon project. Instructor: Andrea Hildebrandt. QiGong Level One. Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please bring a bag lunch and wear comfy clothes. Cost: $85 registration fee to community education. Instructor: Denise Gunderson. Dream-Talk: Decoding symbols and messages in your dreams. Mondays, March 23 and 30, 6 – 8 p.m. Cost: $25 registration fee to community education. $5 material fee paid to instructor on first night of class. Instructor: Tanna Worrell. Feng Shui for Gardeners. Thursday, April 2, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $16 registration fee to community education. Instructor: LaRae Fjellman. Mike Lynch Starwatch Party. WITC course #42-806-410, class #24055. Thursday, April 16, 8 – 10 p.m. Cost: $12 payable to WITC.
715-327-4868. Ice Skating. Frederic Park Board maintains the rink NE of the elementary school. Warming house is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Contact for volunteering: Brad Harlander, 715-327-4836. Weight Room is open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 7 – 8 a.m. Walking at the Birch Street Elementary School. Monday-Friday, 7 – 8 a.m. and 4 – 6 p.m. No fee. For more information on any class or to register for Frederic Community Education classes call Ann Fawver 715-327-4868 or email fawvera@frederic.k12.wi.us.
Webster/Siren Community Education
First Responder Refresher. WITC #47531-446, Class ID #24587. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Jan. 6 to Jan. 20, at the Hertel Fire Department, 6 – 10 p.m. Fee: $55.03/$6.50 Sr. To register call WITC 800243-9482, ext. 4221. Medical Terminology. WITC #10-501-101, Class ID #24231. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 14 – May 14, 12:44 – 1:45 p.m., at the Webster High School. Fee: $313.75. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221. Artistic Welding. WITC #47-442-403, ID#
25608. Eight Wednesdays, Jan. 14 – March 4, 6 – 8 p.m., at the Webster School. Fee: $58.32/$19.50 Sr. Instructor: Roy Ward. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221 or Comm. Ed at 715-349-7070. Pottery. WITC #42-815-408, ID#25658. Eight Wednesdays, Jan. 14 – March 4, 6 – 8 p.m., at the Webster School. Fee: $42.82/$4 Sr. Instructor: Kim Kriegel. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221 or Comm. Ed at 715-349-7070. Silk Hoop Painting. WITC #42-815-408, ID#25659. Two Mondays, Jan. 19 – 26, 5:30
Luck Community Education has a variety of exciting classes lined up. Below are some upcoming classes; visit the Luck School Web site at www.lucksd.k12.wi.us or call 715-4722152 ext. 103 to learn more. Yoga for Youth. Thursdays, Jan. 8 - Feb. 12, 1 - 1:45 p.m. at the Luck Public Library. Course fee: $13.71/$4 each additional child in same family. Instructor: Kristin Boland. Intro to Weaving Chair Seats. Thursday, Jan. 8, 4 - 6 p.m. Course fee: $9.60/$9.60 ages 62+. Instructor: Andrea Hildebrandt Welding Basics. Thursday, Jan. 8 - Feb.
12, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Course fee: $27.01/$4 ages 62+. Instructor: Al Koltunski Yoga Balance. Saturday, Jan. 10, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Course fee: $18.56/$4 ages 62+. Instructor: Julie Karsky. German Foods. Monday, Jan. 12, 6:30 8:30 p.m. Course fee: $9.60. Instructors: Barb Kass and Mike Miles. Aerobics. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 13 – Feb. 19, 7 – 8 p.m. Course fee: $33.12/$4 ages 62+. Instructor: Anne Schaffer. Beginning Thread Painting. Tuesdays,
EAU CLAIRE - Commencement exercises for 713 students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire were Saturday, Dec. 20, in Zorn Arena. A total of 701 students received bachelor’s degrees, including 267 from the College of Arts and Sciences, 195 from the College of Business, 192 from the College of Education and Human Sciences and 47 from the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Twelve students received master’s degrees. Of those, three were from the College of Arts and Sciences, four were from the College of Business, five were from the College of Education and Human Sciences, including four specialist in education degrees.
Local students who received degrees and their fields of study are:
– 7 p.m., at Northwind Arts. Fee: $13.71/$4 Sr. Instructor: Jenny Goalen. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221 or Comm. Ed at 715-349-7070. QiGong for Seniors. WITC #42-807-414, ID#27347. Six Mondays, Jan. 19 to Feb. 23, 4:30 – 6 p.m., at the Siren School. Fee: $28.26/$4 Sr. Instructor: Janice Metelak. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221 or Comm. Ed at 715-349-7070. QiGong for Seniors. WITC #42-807-414, ID#27347. Six Wednesdays, Jan. 21 to Feb. 25, 6 –7:30 p.m., at the Webster Elementary
Luck Community Education
Jan. 13 and 20. Instructor: Lorraine Lunzer. EMT-Basic. Wednesdays, Jan. 14 - June 10, 6 - 10 p.m., and some Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Course fee: $465. Instructor: Greg Carlson. Write Right Now! Thursdays, Jan. 15 – Feb. 19, 4 – 6 p.m., Course fee: $15. Instructor: Carolyn Wedin. Water Aerobics. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 20 - Feb. 26, 4 - 5 p.m. or 5 - 6 p.m. at the Luck Country Inn. Course fee: $33.12/$4 ages 62+. Instructor: Stephanie Robinson.
Academic news
Amery Ryan Carpentier, art, BA, Arts and Sciences; Derek Olson, physics/mathematics, BS, Education and Human Science. Balsam Lake Megan Carlson, mathematics, BS, Education and Human Science. Frederic Emily Barry, nursing, BSN, Nursing and Health Sciences.
School. Fee: $28.26/$4 Sr. Instructor: Janice Metelak. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221 or Comm. Ed at 715-349-7070. Nursing Assistant. WITC #30-543-300, ID#25976. Monday through Friday, Jan. 26 – May 11, 7:30 – 8:20 a.m. Fee: $339.00. To register call WITC 800-243-9482, ext. 4221. Preregistration is required on most classes. For WITC classes, mail registration form to WITC or call WITC 800-243-9482 ext. 4221, or for all other classes call the community education office at 715-349-7070.
Understanding Your Property Taxes. Thursday, Jan. 22, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Instructor: Bob Clifton. This is a no-fee course but preregistration is appreciated at least one week in advance. How to register for Luck Community Education classes: Contact Amy Aguado at 715472-2152 ext. 103, or e-mail amya@lucksd.k12.wi.us. You may also call and register for WITC courses at 800-2439482 ext. 4221 or log on to www.witc.edu. Classes are also listed on the Luck School Web site: www.lucksd.k12.wi.us.
Grantsburg Ashley Frommader, elementary education, BS, Education and Human Science.
Siren James Flanigan, kinesiology, BS, Education and Human Science.
Osceola Rebecca Brandt, information systems, BBA, Business; Mary Cotch, business administration, MBA, Business.
Spooner Kailee Dunsmoor, health care administration, BSHCA, Business; Ben Foss, kinesiology, BS, Education and Human Science; Sara Hopp, kinesiology, BS, Education and Human Science.
Shell Lake Anne Bryan, music, BME, Education and Human Science; Benjamin Kunselman, music, BME, Education and Human Science.
Turtle Lake James Pabst, marketing, BBA, Business. submitted
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21
CHURCH NEWS
Sally Bair Eternal
The only way we can know about the creation is from God who did the creating. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Everything was created by the power of God. The first thing God did was to create light and in Genesis 1:4 “God called the light day and the darkness night. So the evening and the morning was the first day.” Each day, including each day of the creation, has light for day and darkness for the night. Also all six days of creation had both an evening and a morning (Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31) just like the days today. These six days of creation were literal 24-hour days, not billions of years as some falsely claim. God told Moses in Exodus 20:8-9; “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work.” Then in verse 11 He told Moses why; “For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them.” The same Hebrew word for day is used in all three verses. The evening and the morning, One day. God said that everything He created was created in these six days of creation. There was not a progressive creation spread out over billions of years. In Genesis 1:24 we read, “And God said, let the earth bring forth the living creature according to its kind: cattle and creeping thing and beast of the earth, each according to its kind; and it was so.” God is so powerful that all He has to do is to speak and it happens. Each produces after its own kind. There is no evolution from one kind to another because God said that each was to produce “according to its kind.”
In Genesis 1:27 and 2:7 we read, “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them…and man became a living soul.” We are created in the image of God; this is what makes us so special. All people have a soul that will live on forever in eternity, either in Heaven or Hell. This is how we differ from the animals. “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” (Hebrews 11:3) “Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand Preacher’s in awe of Him, for He spoke and it was done.” (Psalms 33:8-9) (Adapted from Ron Boatwright) If readers have questions you would like answered in this weekly column or simply wish to know more about the church of Christ, we would like to invite you to call 715-866-7157, visit our Web site (www.burnettcountycofc.com) or stop by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m.. Office hours are Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. - noon.
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Last week I spoke of peace. This week I speak of war. When I was a young kid, my friends and I played war with our toy guns. Mine was a heavy, silver pistol that used paper rolls of caps as bullets. Each time I pulled the trigger, a cap went off with a loud bang. Our game consisted of the chase, the bang and the mock death. Such fun we had, trying to be the winner, all the while following our chosen leader’s commands such as, “Duck! He’s over Perspectives there!” Since it was just a game, we didn’t have to go through rugged training or wear a certain uniform or count on supplies from the rear of our battle, as is necessary in real war. The Israelites experienced the real thing. God, in his love, had miraculously delivered them from slavery. But as they started for the promised land, they had to spend time in the wilderness—their training ground. All they had to do was love and obey God, their captain, and they would reach their destination in about two weeks. Instead, the Israelites chose to complain and disobey God, despite even more miracles. Their disobedience resulted in a long trip to the promised land, 40 years. Once there, they weren’t simply to go in and put down stakes, they had to possess the land. They had to battle against evil. We the church are in a war, too—a spiritual battle. We’re told to fight against the devil, the world and our own flesh. Personal bad habits, for instance. Or evil in the community. Or insidious temptations. It requires constant, vigorous training to overcome sin and evil. It takes daily study of God’s word, daily acceptance of his power and grace and daily surrender of self to his perfect will. God will help us through every battle we fight when we ask for his help and then obey his commands. We can’t win on the front lines without the strength and presence of the one behind us. God is our supply line. “And my God shall supply all your (spiritual) needs according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19) “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) Lord, your love conquers all. In whatever battle we fight, help us to trust and obey you—our leader, our strength and our help. In Jesus’ name, amen. (Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)
God's wonderful creation
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ERIC DAHLBERG 4/20/72 - 12/26/98
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And if I go while you’re still there... Know that I live on vibrating to a different measure behind a veil you cannot see through. You will not see me, so you must have faith. I wait for the time when we can soar together again both aware of each other. Until then, live life to its fullest! When you need me, just whisper my name in your heart... I will be there.
Mom, Dad, Dana, Julie, Monty & Cassie
IF YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED!
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PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
OBITUARIES Mary E. DeTar
Wilmer John Daeffler
Stanley W. Smith
POLK COUNTY - Funeral services were held Tuesday, Dec. 30 for Mary E. DeTar, 90, of Clear Lake, who died Friday, Dec. 26, at Golden Age Manor in Amery. A complete obituary will appear in next week’s Leader.
Wilmer J. Daeffler, Waterloo, N.Y., 86, died early Saturday morning, Dec. 20, 2008, at Huntington Living Center. Wilmer was born on May 30, 1922, in West Sweden, the son of the late John and Amanda Kolander-Daeffler. He was in the U.S. Navy from Dec. 15, 1943, to Oct. 6, 1947, earning the rank of seaman first class. He moved to Waterloo, N.Y., in May 1961 from Siren and worked as a self-employed contractor. Wilmer is survived by his wife, Audrey BinghamDaeffler, whom he married in Waterloo, Iowa, on June 7, 1997; his daughter, Dianne C. (Gail) Emerson of Waterloo, N.Y.; his son, Waylan J. Daeffler of Warners; grandchildren, Robert J. (Rachel) Emerson of Mechanicsville, Va., Michael Emerson of Marietta, Ga., and Haley J. (Robert Baldwin) Emerson of Waterloo, N.Y.; great-grandchildren, Ashley Nevin, Austin and Alexander Emerson, Jordan E. Tipton, and Dylan R. Baldwin; sisters, Louise Sheffer of Pine City, Minn., Helen Johnson of Minn. and Eileen Wikstorm of Frederic; and brother, Harold Daeffler of Clyde; Audrey’s daughters, Deborah Bingham of Syracuse, Dianne (John) Anderson of West Virginia and Audrey’s son, Brian Bingham, Ga.; several, nieces, nephews and cousins. Wilmer was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth E. Williams-Daeffler, whom he married in Frederic, on May 10, 1947, and passed away on April 16, 1990; brother, Edward Daeffler; and sister Elinor Baston. A funeral service was held Dec. 23, at Mull Funeral Home in Waterloo, Iowa, with the Rev. William R. Dorow Jr., pastor of the Calvary Lutheran Church. A military service followed conducted by the VFW Post 6433 and American Legion Post 435. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Maple Grove Cemetery. Wilmer’s family requested memorial contributions be directed to the Calvary Lutheran Church, 2414 Route 414 North, Waterloo, N.Y. 13165.
Stanley W. Smith, 82, died Dec. 20, 2008, at Burnett Medical Continuing Care Center. Stanley was born March 12, 1926, in Webster, to Leonard and Jeanette Smith. Stanley served in the United States Army during World War II, where he received a back injury during a jump as a paratrooper in the Phillipine Islands. Stanley was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Clarence, Charles, DuWayne, William, Delmer, Richard and Arthur, Yvonne and Sylvia, who died in infancy. Stanley is survived by his children, Marilyn Salzmann of Hayward, Linda Asplund of Rice Lake, Pamela (John) Cramer of Tomah; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, David Smith of Webster and sister, Mary Jane Klar of Webster. Memorial services will be Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009, at 11 a.m., at First Baptist Church, Webster, with Pastor Merrill Olson officiating. Music will by provided by organist Helen Kratzer and soloist Linda Mosher. Interment of cremains will be held in the spring at the Viola Lake Cemetery, Sand Lake Township, Burnett County. Honorary pallbearers were Kurt Anderson, Douglas Geiger, Gregory Stahl and Harold Peterson. The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.
Recall of potentially dangerous cocoa products includes Wisconsin STATEWIDE - Consumer protection officials are warning people of three cocoa products that are being recalled, because they may contain the industrial chemical melamine. The Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection says ShopKo and Big Lots stores sold the products, identified as G & J Hot Cocoa Stuffer; G & J His & Hers Hot Cocoa Set, and G & J Cocoa in either double chocolate or French Vanilla flavors. Donna Gilson of DATCP says it’s unknown if any Wisconsin stores carried the tainted cocoa. But she says it’s better to be safe than sorry, so people with those products should return them or throw them out. “Of course all the problems they’ve had over in China, the tragedy of the infants who died from drinking formula that had melamine in it. And many more infants sickened in China by melamine. We had a year and a half ago, the outbreak of illnesses and deaths in pets from pet foods contaminated with melamine. So even at very low levels, you just don’t want to take the risk,” she says. So far there have been no illnesses reported. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull and Brad Bryant)
Edward (Eddie) Baker Edward (Eddie) Baker, 83, a resident of Siren, died Dec. 28, 2008. Visitation will be held Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009, from 4 – 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 2, 2009, at 11 a.m. Visitation 1 hour prior from 10 – 11 a.m., at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster. A full obituary will be published in an upcoming publication of the Leader. The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.
Robert Schweitzer A memorial service was held Tuesday, Dec. 30 for Robert William Schweitzer, 73, who died Christmas morning at the home of his oldest son, Tim and Dianne’s. Schweitzer worked for Sterling Township on the maintenance crew for several years. A complete obituary will appear in next week’s Leader.
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Ethel “Toots” Holmquist Ethel “Toots” Holmquist, 76, of Grantsburg, died Dec. 23, 2008. She is survived by her husband, Ferney; son, Charlie; daughter, Alice (Scott) Carney; brother-in-law, Kermit; sister-in-law, Marge. A memorial service was held on Saturday, Dec. 27, at the St. Croix Valley Funeral Home Chapel. The St. Croix Valley Funeral Home and Polk County Cremation Society of St. Croix Falls was entrusted with arrangements.
Ferney J. Holmquist Ferney J. Holmquist, 85, Grantsburg, died Saturday, Dec. 27, at the United Pioneer Nursing Home in Luck. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ethel “Toots.” He is survived by his son, Charlie; daughter, Alice (Scott) Carney; brother-in-law, Kermit Holmquist; sister-in-law, Marge Holmquist. A double memorial service was held for both husband and wife on Saturday, Dec. 27, at the St. Croix Valley Funeral Home Chapel. The St. Croix Valley Funeral Home and Polk County Cremation Society, St. Croix Falls, was entrusted with arrangements.
Gerald C. Larson Gerald C. “Jerry” Larson, 78, of Balsam Lake, died Dec. 26, 2008, at the Frederic Nursing and Rehabilitation Community Home. Jerry was born on July 9, 1930, in St. Paul, Minn., to Henry and Marjorie (DeSmith) Larson. He was raised in St. Paul and attended Catholic schools as a child. After his education, he lived in St. Paul and White Bear Lake, Minn. On June 20, 1969, he married Elva in South Dakota. After their marriage, the couple made their home in the Balsam Lake area. Jerry worked as an auto mechanic in St. Paul, Stillwater and also at St. Croix Motors in St. Croix Falls. After his retirement, the couple resided in Balsam Lake. Jerry was an avid fisherman and hunter and had a great love for the outdoors. Jerry leaves to celebrate his memory, wife Elva of Balsam Lake; children, Diana, Joi, Gerald Jr., Danny, Randy and Brad; stepchildren, David and Sheilla; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, James; sister, Virginia; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Marjorie and Henry; son, Brian; brother, Robert; sisters, Lorraine and Jeanne. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009, at 2 p.m., at Faith Lutheran Church in Balsam Lake. The family will greet visitors one hour prior to the service at the church. Jerry will be laid to rest in LeSeur, Minn. The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with arrangements.
DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23
OBITUARIES
Donald D. Johnson Donald D. Johnson “Papa Don,” 69, died peacefully at home on Dec. 23, 2008. Don was born May 3, 1939, in Laona, Forest County, to Claude (Charles) Sr. and Ethel (Gooding) Johnson. Don married Carol Annette Goerke in Waukesha, on Aug. 10, 1956. Don took great pride in his work, first as a journeyman printer at the Waukesha Daily Freeman and the Milwaukee Journal –Sentinel. He worked with his brother, Claude, as a surveyor before moving to Spooner in 1977. He retired from the Wisconsin DOT in 2002. Don was a talented football player and runner. He still holds a state record in the hurdles from the early 1950s. He also enjoyed slow-pitch, dartball and playing pool. Other than his family, he was perhaps proudest of his achievements with the Chancel Players of Waukesha (an ecumenical theater group who toured in Wisconsin and Illinois) and with Waukesha Civic Theatre, where he played many leading roles. He was severely injured in an auto accident in 1980, which curtailed many of his outdoor activities. But he was able to come back to work with the DOT. He thoroughly enjoyed his friendships at the Northwinds and Lipsie Pines. Don had been a member of the Lions Club in New Berlin, a Mason and a member of the First United Methodist Church of Waukesha. Don was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Douglas Alan; his sister, Dolores; and her husband, Earl G. Wegner; and his best friend, Doug Ferguson. Don is survived by his wife of 52 years; sons, David Kenneth (Therese), Donald Steven (Cathie), Chris Allen (Caroline); daughter, Julie Annette; grandchildren, Heather, Erin, Adam, Chad, Amanda, Megan and Elizabeth; adopted kids, Mike and Sue Burtch (sons Christopher and Matt); and the fishing ladies, Donda, Jan and Cherlyn). He is also survived by his siblings, Darla Davies (Ron Reese), Garnet (Ken) Johnson, Claude (Betty) Johnson, Lynn (Lee P.) Wegner and Wayne (Kelley) Johnson; along with a loving multitude of friends, nieces, nephews and other relatives. Memorials can be given in his name to the Webb Lake Area First Responders, Regional Hospice of Spooner or of your choice. Memorial services were held Monday, Dec. 29, 2008, at Lakeside Community Lutheran Church at A & H with Pastor Doug Olson officiating. Music was provided by Rose Brown and Sue Olson. The Scalzo-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Spooner, was entrusted with arrangements.
Faye V. Russ Faye V. Russ, age 72, a resident of Webster, died Dec. 20, 2008. Faye was born on April 21, 1936, in Branford, Fla., to William and Thelma Shealey. Faye was an active member and past president of the Siren Lioness and was a recipient of the Melvin Jones Award. She was also active with the Burnett County Humane Society, the Red Hat Society, and spent many hours helping at St. John’s Catholic Church. Faye was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerald Patrick Russ; soul mate, Charles “Choo Choo” Smith; and grandson, Steven. Faye is survived by her children, Loretta (Joe) Noe, Jerri Stevens, Raymond (Brenda) Russ, Rhonda (Joe) Tignor, Michael (Maria) Russ, Robert (Ingrid) Russ and Rusty (John) Hester; 12 grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; sister, Connie Brogger; brothers, Clarence Powell and Randy Powell; along with other relatives and numerous friends. Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 27, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Father Mike Tupa officiating. Music was provided by Jan Larson. Interment followed at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Webster. Memorials are preferred to the Humane Society of Burnett County. The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.
Dennis Herbert Christensen
Genevieve M. Shostedt
Dennis H. Christensen, 79, a resident of the village of Luck, died at the United Pioneer Home in Luck on Friday, De. 26, 2008. Dennis was born on Feb. 5, 1929, in Georgetown Township, Polk County, to Dagmar (Jensen) and Jacob Christensen. Dennis was baptized and confirmed at the Milltown Lutheran Church. He married his youth girlfriend, Adah Randall, on Jan. 17, 1952. To this union six sons were born. Dennis joined the United States Army in 1949 and was stationed in Korea where he was a medical corpsman, and as the brave soldier that he was, he went out into the fields to rescue the injured. He was honorably discharged by the United States Army in 1951. After his discharge from the Army and his return to the United States, Dennis worked as an orderly at the Minneapolis Veterans Hospital. From there, he worked at various factories until he was in his ‘60s and worked as a telemarketer. Dennis spent some of his adulthood in Elk River, Minn., and the rest in Minneapolis until his son, Myron, moved him to the Pioneer Apartments in Luck, six years ago. Dennis loved to fish, hunt, fix old bicycles and then give them to children. He enjoyed playing 500 at the apartments and playing Bingo at the United Pioneer Home. Dennis leaves to celebrate his memory children, Daniel Christensen, Harlan Christensen, Alvin Christensen, Kevin Peterson, Myron Doyle and Paul Christensen; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister, Marion Kirklin; nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steve Christensen; brothers, Eddie, Einer, Donald, Arthur and Harlan. Funeral service will be held at the Milltown Lutheran Church on Friday, Jan. 2, 2009, at 11 a.m. The family will greet visitors at the Kolstad Family Funeral Home in Centuria on Thursday from 4-6 p.m. and then again at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. He will be laid to rest at the Milltown Cemetery following the funeral service with full military honors. A luncheon and fellowship will be held at the church after the cemetery services. The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with funeral arrangements.
Genevieve Marie Shostedt, 80, a resident of Margaret S. Parmly Residence in Chisago City, Minn., died Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008. Genevieve “Gen” was born Aug. 22, 1928, in Siren, to William and Esther Burnikel. In 1947, she married Freddy Shostedt, and to this union was born son, Gary. They lived in Stillwater, Minn., all their married life; Fred passed away Dec. 18, 1979. Gen continued to live in Stillwater, Minn., until 2000 and then moved to Wyoming, Minn., to be closer to her son, Gary and his wife Bonnie. After several surgeries, she moved to Margaret S. Parmly Resident in Chisago City. Gen was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Freddy; and infant daughter. Gen is survived by her son, Gary (Bonnie); grandson, Zachary (Shannon); great-grandsons, Derek and John; granddaughter, Siri (friend Jeff); sisters, Ardyce (Cleo) Sandberg of Columbia Heights, Minn. and Maxine (Leslie) Lindquist of Siren; brother-in-law, Wesley (Myrtle) Shostedt of Virginia, Minn.; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren with Pastor John Clasen officiating. Music was provided by Fran McBroom, Corrine Root and the Harmonic Balance. Interment was at Lakeview (Mudhen) Cemetery in Daniels Township. Casket bearers were Bob Wendel, Jeff Bailey, Kent Lindquist, Kyle Lindquist, John Johnson and Roger Sandberg and honorary casket bearers were Allen Shostedt and Greg Shostedt. The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.
Dennis D. Hanson Dennis D. Hanson, 55, of Taylors Falls, Minn., died at the Good Samaritan Society Home in St. Croix Falls, on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2008. A Celebration of Life was held at the St. Croix Falls American Legion Post 143, on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2008. Dennis was born on July 6, 1953, in St. Paul, Minn., to Dean and Dorothy (Ewaldt) Hanson. Dennis is survived by his wife, Debra Hanson; special friend, Carey Hay; son, Donald Hanson; daughter, Dionna (James) Gillen; grandchildren, Taylor Hanson, Ciara Gillen, Ashlyn Gillen and Trevor Gillen; brothers, David Hanson and Danny (Carol) Hanson; sisters, Carol (Dick “Blind Man”) Chouinard, Shirley (Chuz) Jackson and Dorinda (Doug) Schmidt; nieces, nephews and cousins and many friends. The Edling Funeral Home of St. Croix Falls, was entrusted with funeral arrangements.
Douglas I. Fouks Douglas I. Fouks, 78, a resident of Danbury, died Dec. 26, 2008, at his home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, at 11 a.m., at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster. Visitation will be Friday, Jan. 2, 2009, from 4 – 7 p.m., at the funeral home. Interment will follow at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Webster. A full obituary will be published in an upcoming publication of the Leader. The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.
Duane Michael Fisk Duane Michael Fisk, 53, Frederic, died Monday, Dec. 22, 2008. Duane was born on Jan. 24, 1955, in Frederic. He grew up on the Fisk family farm. He graduated from Frederic High School in 1973. In 1977 Duane married Laureen Sandberg and they had one daughter, Stephanie Rose, born in 1978. He became a grandpa on Sept. 12, 2008, to Blake Michael Fisk, who he loved dearly. Duane worked for Burnett Dairy Co-op in Alpha, for 29 years. He drove one of their many milk trucks. Duane enjoyed fishing, playing cribbage, pool and watching animals in the backyard along with Petey the Peacock; he literally lived in Duane and Laur's backyard. Most of all Duane loved his wife, Laureen and he was very proud of Stephanie and Blake. Duane was preceded in death by his mother, Ellen Fisk; and nephew, Michael Fisk. He is survived by his wife, Laureen; and his daughter, Stephanie; grandson, Blake Michael; father, Lawrence LeRoy Fisk; brothers and sisters, Roger (Suzi) Fisk, Larry (Rita) Fisk and Karen (Danny) Carlson; nieces, nephews and a host of friends and in-laws. Memorial services were held Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2008, at Trade Lake Baptist Church in Trade Lake Township. The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with arrangements.
Lydia Dee (nee Roth) Johnson Lydia Dee (nee Roth) Johnson, died Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008, at the age of 50. Lydia was born in Fort Myers, Fla., June 20, 1958, to Dee and George (Bud) Roth II. She graduated from Bishop Verot High School in 1976. She went on to Florida State University and graduated in 1980 with a degree in interior design. She moved to Oconomowoc in March of 1986, and she and Charles V. Johnson were married in Ft. Myers on April 4, 1987. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, golfing, book clubs/Bible studies, Bunko, volunteering and traveling. She is survived by husband, Charlely; children, Abby and Taylor; brother, George B. (Nellie) Roth III; motherin-law, Pearl Johnson; sister- and brother-in-law, Julie and Don Brekke; nieces and nephews, Aaron Brekke, Joshua, Sarah, Richard and Daniel Roth. Lydia was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Laura Roth and father-in-law, Gordon Johnson. Visitation was held Sunday, Dec. 28, 2008, at St. Jerome Church in Oconomowoc. Mass of Christian burial follow with a reception afterward in Marian Hall. Memorial contributions can be made to the St. Jerome Building Fund or Sojourner Truth House. The Pagenkopf Funeral Home, Oconomowoc, was entrusted with arrangements.
PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
CHURCH NEWS Celebrating family traditions brings everyone together
through the day. We look forward to that festive season, not just for the food, but also for what happens between loved ones who come together on that occasion. We also have designated foods on the other holidays throughout the year. On New Year’s Day, for reasons which I cannot explain, we enjoy a southern meal of pinto beans cooked at least eight hours with large chunks of lean ham, served with cornbread and little onions. It’s so good! For many years, we invited 30 or more friends to our home on the Fourth of July and served them barbecued hamburgers and baked beans. This became a prelude to the fireworks display, and much fun and laughter. There are many other traditions. Immediately prior to the Thanksgiving dinner, each person is given two kernels of Indian corn to symbolize the blessings he or she is most thankful for that year. A basket is passed and members drop in the corn while sharing their two richest blessings from God during that year. Our expressions of thankfulness inevitably involve people – children, grandparents and other loved ones. As the basket moves around the table, tears of appreciation and love are evident on many faces. It is one of the most beautiful moments of the year.
Q: My family lives together under one roof, and we share the same last name, but we don’t “feel” like a family. How can I begin to put a sense of togetherness into this harried household? How do you put meaningful activities into your family? DR. DOBSON: One way to accomplish that is by creating traditions in your home. By traditions, I’m referring to those recurring events and behaviors that are anticipated, especially by children, as times of closeness and fellowship between loved ones. In our family, the centerpiece of our holiday traditions is food. Each year during Thanksgiving and Christmas, the women prepare marvelous turkey dinners with all the trimmings. Another great favorite at that time is a fruit dish called ambrosia, containing sectioned oranges and grapes. The family peels the grapes together the night before the big day. These holidays are wonderful experiences for all of us. There’s laughter and warm family interaction
The great value of traditions is that they give a family sense of identity and belonging. All of us desperately need to feel that we’re not just part of a busy cluster of people living together in a house, but we’re a living, breathing family that’s conscious of our uniqueness, our character and our heritage. That feeling is the only antidote for the loneliness and isolation that characterize so many homes today. ••• QUESTION: I get very upset because my 2-year-old boy will not sit still and be quiet in church. He knows he’s not supposed to be noisy, but he hits his toys on the pew and sometimes talks out loud. Should I reprimand him for being disruptive? DR. DOBSON: With all respect, your question reveals a rather poor understanding of the nature of toddlers. Most
Dr. James
Dobson Focus on the Family
“The Christmas Dream” coming to Fristad Lutheran CENTURIA - Are you ready to receive the best gift ever given? Then come be a part of “The Christmas Dream” on a journey to Bethlehem to experience the birth of Jesus Christ our Savior. Please plan to join Fristad Lutheran on Sunday, Jan. 4, 9:30 a.m., at the church, 501 Hwy.
WEBSTER – First Baptist Church of Webster invites the public to an evening of fun and fellowship on New Year’s Eve. Beginning at 6 p.m., there will be a soup and salad supper followed by table games. The film “Flywheel” will be shown at 8:30 p.m. This is the story of a salesman, Jay Austin, who wants to sell cars in the worst way... and that’s exactly what he does. He’ll do whatever it takes to sell a car and his manipulative ways
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Brought to you by:
Frederic Evangelical Free Church Frederic
New Year’s Eve at Webster Baptist
35, Centuria, as they welcome the Silent Messengers clowning/drama group from Baldwin, who will share a re-enactment of the birth of Jesus Christ in a most unique way. - from Fristad Lutheran Church
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2-year-olds, those who are normally active, can no more fold their hands in church and listen to a sermon intended for adults than they could swim the Atlantic Ocean. They squirm, churn and burn because they must. You just can’t hold a toddler down. All their waking hours are spent in activity, and that’s normal for this stage of development. So I do not recommend that your child be punished for this behavior. I think he should be left in the church nursery where he can shake the foundations without disturbing the worship service. If there is no nursery, I suggest – if it is possible from a financial point of view – that he be left at home with a sitter until he is at least 3 years of age. ••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995 (www.family.org). Questions and answers are excerpted from “Solid Answers” and “Bringing Up Boys,” both published by Tyndale House.
permeate all of his relationships – even his wife and son don’t trust him. Coming face -to-face with reality, Jay begins the ride of his life as he learns to honor god, with his business, his relationships and his life! A great story with a first-rate message! From the producers and directors of “Facing the Giants.” Call 715-8664117 for more information. - from First Baptist Church
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25
Church Directory ADVENTIST
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST - FREDERIC
609 Benson Road. Pastor Curtis Denney Sat. Worship 11 a.m.; Sabbath Schl. 9:30 a.m.
ALLIANCE
ALLIANCE
ALLIANCE CHURCH OF THE VALLEY Senior Pastor Bob Morton 1259 Hwy. 35 S., St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship: 8:30, 9:45 & 11 a.m.
LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING
Pastors Julie Brenden & Nanette Hagen Hinck Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School 10:30 a.m.
LUCK LUTHERAN
510 Foster Ave. E.; Mark E. Hall, Pastor Office 715-472-2605; Home 715-472-8424 Worship Service 10:30 a.m.
MILLTOWN LUTHERAN
BIBLE FELLOWSHIP
113 W. Main St.. W., Phone 715-825-2453 Pastor Danny G. Wheeler 9 a.m. Prayer & Praise Service 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:40 a.m. Worship Service
WORD OF LIFE CHURCH
NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN
BIBLE FELLOWSHIP
Meeting in homes. Elders: Cliff Bjork, Jon Zens, 483-1357 and 755-3048 Sun. Fellowship - 10 a.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.
NEW WINE CHURCH - CENTURIA 309 5th Street, 715-640-1450 Pastors Randy and Pam Stone Sunday Service at 10 a.m.
LUTHERAN
LUTHERAN
BALSAM LUTHERAN CHURCH
1115 Mains Crossing, 1/2 Mile South Hwy. 8 On 110th St.; Pastor Matt Faarem Sun. Worship 9 a.m.; Sun. School 10:15 a.m. Wed. Bible Study 8:30 a.m. Wed. LOGOS 3:20 p.m.
BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR LUTHERAN (WELS)
Gene E. Jahnke, Pastor, 715-635-7672, Hm. 715-354-7787, Hwy. 70 at 53, Spooner Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School & Bible Classes For All - 10:45 a.m.
BETHANY LUTHERAN - BRANSTAD
Pastor Jay Ticknor, 715-463-5746 3 miles So. of Grantsburg on Hwy. 87 Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.
BETHANY LUTHERAN - SIREN
Hwy. 35, 1/2 blk. N. Main St. Pastor John Clasen; Pastoral Serv. 349-5280 Sunday Worship - 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School - 9:30 a.m.
BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws
Pastor Mark Richardson & Pastor Rob Lubben 1947 110th Ave., Dresser, 715-755-2562 Sun. Contemp. Wor. 8:15 a.m.; Folk & Gospel Wor., Adult Ed & Sun. Schl. 9:30; Trad. Wor. 10:45 a.m.
BONE LAKE LUTHERAN bllc@lakeland.ws
Pastor Mary Ann Bowman, 5 mi. E. of Luck on Hwy. 48, 1/2 mi. S. on I; 472-8153, Office/Kit. - 472-2535 Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Adult Bible Study 9:15 a.m.; Fellowship 10 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays
CHRIST LUTHERAN
Pipe Lake CTH G & T, 715-822-3096 Sun. Serv. 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m. during school year; Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sun.
CLAM FALLS LUTHERAN (AALC)
Pastor Larry Juergenson - 715-653-2630 Communion 1st Sunday Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.
FAITH LUTHERAN - BALSAM LAKE
faithlutheran@lakeland.ws Pastor Diane Norstad 715-485-3800; CTH I & Mill Street Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:40 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st & last Sundays
FAITH LUTHERAN - GRANTSBURG
Pastor Arthur Bruning, 715-463-5388 Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School 10:45 a.m.
FIRST EVAN. LUTHERAN
5561 Chestnut St., Taylors Falls, MN 651-465-5265 Traditional Wor. 8:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. & Youth 9:45 a.m.; Adult Learning 10 a.m.; Contemp. Wor. 11 a.m.
FIRST LUTHERAN - CUSHING
Pastors Julie Brenden & Nanette Hagen Hinck; 648-5323 or 648-5324 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:15 a.m.
FRISTAD LUTHERAN - CENTURIA
Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays
OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER
Pastor John Siedschlag, Phone 866-5406; Church Phone 866-7191 Sun. Schl. - 8:30 a.m; Sun. Wors. - 9:30 a.m.; Adult Bible Study 11:00 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays
PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA)
2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 E-mail: peace@centurytel.net Pastor Wayne Deloach, Intern Bob Sinclair Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:40 a.m.; Confirmation Wed. 6 p.m.; HS Youth Wed. 6 p.m.
PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA) Pastor Catherine Burnette 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10 a.m. Holy Communion 1st & 2nd Sundays www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org
REDEEMER EV. LUTHERAN
(Wisconsin Synod) Pastor Gene DeVries 200 N. Adams St., St. Croix Falls Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 8:30 a.m.
(Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter, 327-8608 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:30 a.m. Communion - 1st & 3rd Sun.
LAKESIDE COMMUNITY LUTH. - ELCA
CTH H, 1/2 mi. N. of CTH A & H on H Church Off. 715-635-7791Roger Pittman, Pastor Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 10 a.m. Communion 1st and 3rd Sundays
METHODIST
METHODIST
ATLAS UNITED METHODIST
Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.
CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST - GRANTSBURG Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Worship - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10:30 a.m.
DANBURY UNITED METHODIST
Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.
GRACE UNITED - WEBSTER
Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.
Pastor: Rev. Dennis M. Mullen, 715-327-8119 Sat.: 4:30 p.m. St. Dominic; Sun.: 8:30 a.m. Immaculate Conception; 10:30 a.m. St. Dominic Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times
ST. ANNE PARISH
Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 139 Church Hill Rd., Somerset Mass Sun. 8:30 a.m.; Wed. 9 a.m. Sacrament of Penance Sun. 8 a.m.
ST. FRANCIS XAVIER
Pastor Father Daniel Bodin, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9 a.m.
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST
Pastor Michael J. Tupa, 715-866-7321 Cedar & Muskey Ave. - Webster Mass Sun 10:45 a.m., Wed. 5:45 p.m. (SeptMay), Fri. 9 a.m. (Summer) Sat. 8:15 p.m. on Sept. 1
TRINITY LUTHERAN LCMS, DANBURY
Pastor John Siedschlag Home 715-866-5405; Church 715-866-7191 Sunday Worship Service - 8 a.m. Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays
TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN
LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST McKINLEY UNITED METHODIST
ASSEMBLY
Tom Cook, Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m. Pastor Bruce Stunkard Sun. Wor. 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m. Potluck dinner 1st Sunday
OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST
Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship Service - 10 a.m. Sun. School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available
Pastor Arveda “Freddie” Kirk, 327-4436 Sun. Worship - 10 a.m.; Child care available during service Tom Cook, Pastor Sunday School 9 a.m. Worship - 10:15 a.m. (Nursery available)
TAYLORS FALLS UNITED METHODIST
290 W. Government Street, 715-294-4436 Reverend Dr. Rolland Robinson Sunday Service - 10 a.m. with nursery Sunday School - Sept. - May at 10 a.m.
WOLF CREEK UNITED METHODIST Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship - 8:15 a.m. COVENANT
COVENANT
TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN OSCEOLA
Pastor Dave Guertin 7686 Lofty Pines Drive, Siren, 715-349-5601 Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.
Pastors Mike & Linda Rozumalski 1 mi. west of Luck on N, 2478 170th St., Luck Worship - 9:30 a.m.; Fellowship after service.
WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN
1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, Pastor Ray Reinholtzen, Douglas Olson and Roger Kampstra Services begin at 9:30 a.m. Communion 1st & 3rd Sun.
ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (AALC)
Pastor Larry Juergensen - 715-653-2630 5 mi. E. of Frederic on W, 2 mi. south on I; Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Communion - 1st Sunday
Pastor Scott Sagel, 715-689-2541 Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 10:30 p.m.; Elevator provided, welcome
SIREN COVENANT
UNITED COVENANT - CLEAR LAKE
Pastor Gary Tonn Praise Time 8 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Sunday School 9:20 a.m. CATHOLIC
CATHOLIC
ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 255 St. Hwy. 35, East Farmington Mass Friday 9 a.m.; Sacrament of Penance Sat. 3:30 p.m.
CHURCH OF ST. JOSEPH
Pastor - Father Daniel Bodin 490 Bench St., Taylors Falls, 651-465-7345 Sat. Vigil 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 7:30 & 10:30 a.m. Tues. - Thurs. 7:30 a.m.
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP
Danbury - 7586 St. Rd. 77, 866-7321 Pastor - Father Michael J. Tupa Mass - Wed. 5 p.m. (Summer), Fri. 9 a.m. (Sept.-May). Reconciliation as per bulletin & by appt.
OUR LADY OF THE LAKES
Pastor Larry Hendry Worship - 11 a.m.; Sun. School - 11 a.m. Holy Communion - 1st & 3rd Sunday
Balsam Lake - Rev. John A. Drummy, Pastor - 405-2253 Mass: Sat. eves. 6 p.m.; Sun. 8:30 a.m.; Tues. 5:30 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation 7:30 a.m. Sun. or by appt.
ZION LUTHERAN - TRADE LAKE
SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS & MARY
ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE
Pastor David Almlie, 715-327-8384, 715-327-8090 Fellowship - 10:30 a.m. Sunday School - 9:45 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m. Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays
1289 160th St. (Hwy. 65), St. Croix Falls Phone - 715-472-2258 Bible Study - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m.
WESLEYAN WOODLAND WESLEYAN
Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-294-2243 255 E. 10th Ave., Osceola Masses: Sun. 10:30 a.m., Tues. 5 p.m. Thurs. at 10 a.m. at Osc. Nursing Home
CALVARY COVENANT - ALPHA
WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN
CHURCH OF CHRIST
CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH OF CHRIST
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC
Pastor Marty Nolet Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour
Hwy. 70 East, 689-2271 Pastor: Carl Heidel Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m. Communion -Every Sunday
300 Seminole Ave. (CTH M) Mark Kock, Pastor, 715-294-2828 Sunday Worship at 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School (ages 4 thru 12th grade), Fellowship, Adult Bible Class at 9:15 a.m.
Pastor Andy McDaniel, 715-327-8402 Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Bible Study; Nursery provided.; www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org
LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL
ASSEMBLY
CENTURIA ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Pastor Don Wiltshire, 715-640-6400 Centuria - Phone 715-646-2172 Sunday Service: 10 a.m.
OSCEOLA COMMUNITY CHURCH
SIREN UNITED METHODIST
10 mi. W. of Cumberland on Hwy. 48 (McKinley) - Pastor Neal Weltzin GT Office 857-5580, Parsonage 822-3001, TR Office - 822-3001 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:15 a.m. Holy Communion - 1st Sunday
TRADE LAKE BAPTIST
Minister Garret Derouin, 866-7157 Musky & Birch St., Avail. in office 9 a.m. noon, Tues.-Fri.; Sun. Bible Study 9:30 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m.
Holytrinity@wisconsinumc.org 1606 165th Ave., Centuria Paul Foulke, Pastor, 715-485-3363 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:15 a.m.
Pastor Dale VanDeusen, 715-488-2296 or 715-488-2653 20296 Hwy. 87, Grantsburg Morn. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:45 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services
TRINITY LUTHERAN - ELCA
Pastor Doug McConnell Youth Pastor Chris Radtke At Grantsburg High School, 715-463-5794 Sun. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.
CHURCH OF CHRIST - WEBSTER
EVANGELICAL
140 Madison St. South, St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark K. Schoen Sun. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun.School - 10:30 a.m.
LIVING HOPE CHURCH
404 Wis. Ave., Amery, 715-268-7717 Father John Drummy, Pastor Sat. Mass 4 p.m., Sun. Mass 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat., 3:30 p.m. or by appt.
ST. LUKE UNITED - FREDERIC
SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN (Missouri Synod)
716 S. Robert St., Grantsburg, 715-463-5699 Sr. Pastor Brad Moore David Ahlquist, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Wor. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC
Pastor Andrew Bollant Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Morn. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Supervised Nursery; Wed. Evening - Worship Serv. 6:30 p.m.
1614 CTH, North Luck; Mark E. Hall, Pastor Office Phone 472-2605 Dial-A-Devotion 472-2345 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.
GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG
HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST
ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST
YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC
Rev. Bruce Brooks - 715-483-3550 719 Nevada St. , (between Simonson & Tower Roads) , St. Croix Falls Worship - 10 a.m. (Nursery provided) Sun. Schl. - Child.- 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - Adults - 8:45 a.m.; Communion 1st Sunday
ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LUCK
GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA
Phone 327-4340, 327-8384, 327-8090 Pastor David Almlie Worship 9:15 a.m.; Sun. School 10:30 a.m. Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN
ST. DOMINIC - FREDERIC & IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG CATHOLIC MASS SCHED.
350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Wor. - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.
ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod)
ELCA - 501 Hwy. 35, 646-2357 Mel Rau, Pastor Sunday Worship & Holy Communion - 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School - 10:40 a.m.
GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN
PRESBYTERIAN
oumc@centurytel.net 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Pastor Alan J. Hagstrom, 715-294-3195 Adult Class - 9 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m. Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st Sunday
Rev. Rexford D. Brandt 447 180th St., Osceola, 715-294-2936 Sun. Wor. 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.; Sun. School 9:15 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month
Rt. 1, Balsam Lake, WI (Fox Creek) Pastor Neal Weltzen; GT Office - 857-5580, Parsonage - 822-3001, TR Office - 822-3001 Wors. Serv. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m.; Holy Communion - 1st Sun. of each month
PRESBYTERIAN
Pastor Father Michael J. Tupa CTHs A & H - 715-866-7321 Crescent Lake Voyager Village area. Mass Sun. 8:15 a.m., Thurs. 11:30 a.m. Reconciliation as per bulletin and by appt.
Pastor Larry Mederich, 715-294-4332 Mtg. @ Osceola Elementary School Sun. Service - 9:45 a.m.
SIREN ASSEMBLY OF GOD
EVANGELICAL
TRADE RIVER EVAN. FREE
APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA)
Pastor Bruce Tanner, 715-268-2176 942 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Bible study 7 p.m.
FREDERIC EVAN. FREE CHURCH
Pastor Greg Lund, 715-327-8767 700 Churchwood Lane; 505 Old CTH W Sun. Schl. - 9 a.m.; Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services BAPTIST
BAPTIST
EAST BALSAM BAPTIST - BALSAM LK. Pastor David Sollitt 715-857-5411 or 715-268-2651 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl.-10:15 a.m.
EUREKA BAPTIST
2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls Pastor Gary Merchant, 715-483-9464 Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 11 a.m.
FAITH FELLOWSHIP
Hwy. 35 and CTH N., Luck Bill McEachern Pastor, 715-485-3973 Sun. Bible study - 9 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 10 a.m.
FIRST BAPTIST - AMERY
131 Broadway St., 715-268-2223; www.fbcamery.org Pastor Charlie Butt, Lead Pastor Sun.: 8:15 a.m. Adult Sun. Schl.; 8:30 a.m. Sun. Schl. for Pre-K to Sr. High; 10 a.m. Morning Worship.
FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN
Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Wor. 11 a.m., 7 p.m.
GRACE CHURCH OF OSCEOLA
“The Cure for the Common Church” 722 Seminole Ave., Osceola Pastor Dr. Kent Haralson; 715-294-4222 or 715755-3454; info@gracechurchosceola.com Sun.: Praise & Worship Serv. 9 am., Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m., Children’s Sun. Schl. 10:45 a.m.
FIRST BAPTIST - TAYLORS FALLS, MN
Loc. across from elemen. schl. on West St., Pastor, Dr. Kevin Schumann; 651-465-7171 Sun. Morn. - Sun. Schl. for all ages - 9 a.m. Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.
FIRST BAPTIST - WEBSTER
Church Phone 715-866-4111; Rev. Merrill Olson - Pastor Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m (Nursery Provided)
FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN
Pastor Kevin Millen Associate Pastor Jim Carmon Sunday School - (all ages) - 9:30 a.m. Church Serv. - 10:45 a.m.
WESLEYAN
Dairyland - Rev. Jack Martiny 715-244-3649 Sunday School - 10 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.
FULL GOSPEL
FULL GOSPEL WOOD RIVER CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Dan Slaikeu 4 mi. SE of Grantsburg on Williams Rd. Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Wor. 10:30 a.m.
HOPE FELLOWSHIP OF SOMERSET
231 Bluff Drive, 715-247-2435 Services are Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Call Pastor Darryl Olson at 715-755-3133 for information and directions
CHRISTIAN CENTER
CHRISTIAN CENTER EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER
1751 100th Ave., Dresser Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Morn. Wor. 10:30 a.m. Evening Services Sun. 6 p.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.
ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN
CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX
523 1st St., Clayton 715-948-2493 Fr. Christopher Wojcik, Pastor Sat. Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sun. Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.
HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN
Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago Lakes, MN Fr. Robert McMeekin, pastor 715-220-5111/hcomm.org Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.
NAZARENE
NAZARENE
CALVARY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 510 S. Vincent, St. Croix Falls Pastor Lori Ward, 715-483-3696 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:45 a.m. & Wed. 6:30 p.m.
FAITH COM\MUNITY
7535 Peet St., Danbury, 715-656-4010 Reverend R.A. Luebke Adult Bible Service 9 a.m.; Services: Sun. 10 a.m. Sunday School during church service.
NONDENOMINATIONAL
NONDENOMINATIONAL
CENTERPOINT CHURCH “Come as you are” Pastor Dick Enerson, www.centerpointstcroix.com 715-294-1833, Meeting at SCF High Schl. Main entrance 740 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship 10 - 11:15 a.m. MERCY FELLOWSHIP
26390 Lakeland Ave., Webster (Hwy. 35 across from Wayne’s Foods & DNR) Pastor Doug Quenzer, 715-866-7006 Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m.
NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY
Meets at Dresser Elem. School, Dresser Pastor Michael Brand, 715-417-2468 Sun. Schl. 8:45 a.m.; Adult Class 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 9:45 a.m.; Nursery available
NORTHERN PINES FRIENDS WORSHIP GROUP 715-733-0481 or 715-733-0480 for time of meeting.
INTERDENOMINATIONAL
INTERDENOMINATIONAL RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN
1289 160th St. (Hwy. 65), St. Croix Falls 715-483-5378 Pastors Dan and Claudia Denissen Asst. Pastor Ken Janes Sun. School 9 a.m.; Worship 10 a.m.
church directory
ADVENTIST
PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
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E-edition - this complete issue is online now. www.the-leader.net Correction FREDERIC Robert Kirk has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. He is a sophomore and the son of Sharon and Earl Jensen. Robert is quiet, reserved and doesn’t complain or criticize. He is involved in football, basketball and track. Robert enjoys lifting weights, hanging with friends at movies, and sports. His future plans include going to college to be a vet or a sports career if available.
Dr. Daniel C. Satterlund Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Phone (715) 472-2121
Robert L. Nelson New York Life Insurance Company Box 313 Luck, Wis. 54853 Phone
715-472-2502
Webster, Wisconsin
“Distinctive Funeral Service”
NEW YORK LIFE
(PG) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:15, 9:15; Mon. - Thur.: 5:15, 7:15, 9:15
AT THE LODGE 24226 1st Ave. No. Siren, WI Local Movie Line 715-349-8888 Timbers1@starwire.net SHOW TIMES FOR FRI., JAN. 2 THRU THURS., JAN. 8
(PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.: 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30, 9:40; Mon. - Thur.: 5:20, 7:30, 9:40
MARLEY & ME
Rated PG, 123 Minutes. Fri. - Sun.: 1:00, 3:25, 5:50 & 8:15 p.m. Mon. - Thurs.: 4:00 & 6:30 p.m.
(PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.:1:15, 4:45, 7:00, 9:15; Mon. - Thur.: 4:45, 7:00, 9:15
BEDTIME STORIES
Rated PG, 99 Minutes. Fri. - Sun.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m. Mon. - Thurs.: 4:00 & 6:30 p.m.
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON Rated PG-13, 166 Minutes. Fri. - Sun.: 1:05, 4:30 & 7:45 p.m. Mon. - Thurs.: 6:00 p.m.
YES MAN
(PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.:1:25, 4:45, 7:05, 9:25; Mon. - Thur.: 4:45, 7:05, 9:25
(G) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00; Mon. - Thur.: 5:00, 7:00
Rated PG-13, 104 Minutes. Fri. - Sun.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:30 p.m. Mon. - Thurs.: 4:15 & 6:30 p.m.
(PG-13) Daily: 9:00 (PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.:1:10, 3:10, 5:10, 7:20, 9:10; 475736 Mon. - Thur.: 5:10, 7:10, 9:10 19L 9a,d
All shows and show times before 6 p.m. $5.00. Shows and show times subject to change. Visit us on our Web site: www.timberstheatres.com
Daily: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. AUSTIN LAKE GREENHOUSE & FLOWER SHOP • WEDDING BOUQUETS • FUNERAL DESIGNS • CUT FLOWERS • GIFTS • BALLOONS • BEDDING PLANTS • POTTED PLANTS • TUXEDO RENTAL BY SAVVI • ANTLER KING PRODUCTS Hwy. 35 & “FF,” Webster Flowers Phoned Anywhere
Call 715-866-7261
Let’s Thrive.®
• Shell Lake, 715-468-2314 • St. Croix Falls 715-483-9008
Visit The Leader’s Web Site:
22854A N1-07
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(PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.: 1:05, 3:10, 5:15, 7:20, 9:25; Mon. - Thur.: 5:15, 7:20, 9:25
See us for all your printing needs.
www.the-leader.net
1 till 3 p.m.
475683 19L 9a (PG-13) Sorry, no passes or reduced admission tickets. Fri. - Sun.: 2:00, 5:00, 8:00; Mon. - Thur.: 5:00, 8:00
• Commercial Printing • Office Supplies • Daily UPS Pickup • Fax & Copy Service
• Frederic, 715-327-4236 • Siren, 715-349-2560
RETIREMENT OPEN HOUSE
SHOWS AND SHOW TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL SEATS BEFORE 6 P.M. ARE $6
Phone 715-268-2004
Eye health exams, glaucoma checks, foreign body removal, full line of street wear, safety and sport wear, contact lenses
Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home
2179 E. Hwy. 8 Between Tractor Supply and Wal-Mart www.evergreen-entertainment.com
OPTOMETRIST 119 Arlington Drive Amery, Wis.
304 1st St. So., Luck, Wis.
•
All Stadium/Digital 715-483-1471
Dr. T.L. Christopherson
Family Eye Clinic
•
Cinema 8 January 2 - 8
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DECEMBER 30, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27
Students of the Week GRANTSBURG
FREDERIC
Melana Nelson has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Richard Nelson and Jessica Olby. Melana is very responsible and works very hard. She enjoys doing her math homework and participating in dance.
Lexi Domagala has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Brad and Paula Domagala. Lexi is cooperative, has a positive personality, is always willing to please, has good work habits and never complains. She is involved in church, basketball, volleyball and softball. Lexi enjoys sports and plans on going to college in the future.
Cathryn McConnell has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a junior and the daughter of David McConnell. Cathryn is a highcharacter student, has an excellent personality, a good work ethic and is a pleasure to be around. She is involved in church activities, basketball and track. Cathryn enjoys art. She plans to go to UW-Milwaukee for graphic arts and later to be a massage therapist.
Tianna Verdeja has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in third grade and the daughter of Mikki and Jason Verdeja. Tianna is a hard worker and is helpful. Art and math are her favorite classes. Tianna enjoys playing with her friends.
Alex Richey has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Robin and Tom Richey. Alex does his work completely and on time. He is respectful to his peers and teachers. Alex is involved in his youth groups. He enjoys playing games in his spare time.
Adrian Riedman has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. He is a sophomore and the son of Val and Sharon Riedman. Adrian is an excellent English student with a terrific imagination. He will always go the extra mile to make a project excellent. His sense of humor is subtle and interesting and his conversation is always worth overhearing. Adrian enjoys playing guitar, drawing and making and recording music on the computer.
Maggie Singerhouse has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Barbara and Charles Singerhouse. She has one sister, two dogs and three cats. Her favorite pastimes are sports, writing, reading, shopping and hanging out with friends. Maggie is involved in student council, volleyball, soccer, softball, forensics and drama. Language arts and tech ed are her favorite classes.
WEBSTER
SIREN
Elaina Tijerina has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. She worked very hard adjusting to her school schedule and routine. Elaina has a beautiful smile and is a pleasure to have in class. She enjoys looking at books, playing outside and riding the bus. Elaina is beginning to help her classmates with puzzles, but more often enjoys playing house with her babies. She is becoming more independent each day.
John D’Jock has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Sharon and Dave D’Jock. John possesses knowledge and interest in world affairs beyond his years. His assignments and projects show insight, research and carefully worded opinion. John encourages classmates and perpetuates a positive school spirit.
Daniel Larsen has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a freshman and the son of Kevin and Terri Larsen. Daniel is intelligent, hardworking, inquisitive, a high achiever and has a positive attitude. He is involved in basketball, football and soccer. Daniel enjoys playing video games, sports and solving the Rubik’s Cube. He plans on attending college and go into a career involving mathematics.
ST. CROIX FALLS
LUCK
Makenna Ross has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Aaron and Vanessa Ross. Makenna is a hard worker and always does her best. She has a very positive attitude. Makenna’s favorite thing to do in school is to play with her friends. After school, she likes to bake cookies with her mom.
Jared Peltier has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. He is in fourth grade and the son of Jonathan and Jennifer Peltier. Jared’s favorite class is social studies and his favorite activity is to play outside. He does it a lot! Jared is very kind and he works very hard in school. He always gives his best effort.
Tiara Hanson has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. She works diligently in class and completes assignments before some are due. Tiara is very attentive and is a pleasure to have in class. Her sense of humor is an asset, as well as her positive personality.
Kane Graham has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in early childhood and the son of Jasmine Heitz. Kane has a wonderful smile that lights up the classroom. He is working hard to prepare for kindergarten.
Cheyanne Staples has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is in fifth grade and the daughter of Stephanie Staples, and her aunt, Angela Staples, is her guardian. Cheyanne has improved very mucn in school in the last couple of months. Cheyanne is very creative and enjoys artistic activities, singing and smiling.
Violet Wilkie has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a junior and the daughter of Erik and Yvonne Wilkie. Violet is an excellent reader. She excels at comprehension of literature and is a superior writer. Violet is independent worker and always gets her work in on time. Her hobbies are reading, writing, cooking, lifting weights and video games. She plans on attending a 4-year culinary arts school to become a chef.
UNITY
Ajhan Chapman has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in third grade and the son of Tamara Nelson. Ajhan works very hard in school and is friendly, kind and caring. Ajhan has a very positive attitude and always puts forth his best effort. He shows a strong academic performance.
Tatum Kline has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Ed and Carol Kline. Tatum is very kind and compassionate. She is respectful and mature. Tatum is an excellent student and a pleasure to have in class.
Steven Acosta has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. He is a sophomore and the son of Susan and Steve Berglund. Steven is a hard worker. He is involved in church, wrestling and baseball. Steven enjoys games and playing with his dogs, Gismo and Ike. He wants to be a policeman.
PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 30, 2008
Coming events
The Overlook Deck at St. Croix Falls, located directly across the street from Festival Theatre, is decorated with holiday lights this season. - Special photo
DECEMBER WEDNESDAY/31 Amery
• Senior center closing at 3 p.m.
Frederic
• Pokeno at the senior center at 1 p.m.
St. Croix Falls
• Potluck dinner and games at the senior center, 6 p.m., 715-483-3466.
JANUARY THURSDAY/1 Amery
• Senior center closed for New Year’s Day.
Frederic
• Potluck New Year dinner at the senior center.
Frederic
• Frederic High School choir reunion concert, fundraiser for choir trip to Disney World, 7 p.m., 327-4223, ext. 133, heineg@frederic.k12.wi.us. • Potluck and birthdays of the month, at the senior center, noon, games enjoyed after dinner.
Lewis
• Bluegrass, country, gospel jam session at the Lewis Methodist Church, 6-9 p.m. Call Brad Alden at 715-349-2573 for more info.
SUNDAY/4 Centuria
• “The Christmas Dream” presented at Fristad Lutheran, 9:30 a.m., 715-646-2357.
MONDAY/5 Frederic
• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.
FRIDAY/2
TUESDAY/6
• Pokeno: note change to 12:30 p.m., due to monthly meeting.
• The Swedish Club meets at Our Savior’s Church at 7 p.m., 715-269-5307.
Frederic
SATURDAY/3 Dairyland
• Cozy Corner Trails, Inc. will meet in the lower level of Hillside Inn at 9:30 a.m.
Amery
Balsam Lake
• American Red Cross is offering Adult/ AED CPR Review at the Polk County Red Cross Office, 5:30-8 p.m., 715-485-3025, www.scvarc.org.
Clam Falls
• Clam Falls coffee hour at Clam Falls Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.
Cushing
• Annual meeting of the Cushing Cooperative Society at First Lutheran Church, 1 p.m.
Osceola
• Free sleep apnea seminar at the medical center, 6:30-8 p.m., 715-294-4936.
Taylors Falls, Minn.
• Catholicism 101 Class begins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 10-week study, 6:308:30 p.m., 651-465-7345.
WEDNESDAY/7 Balsam Lake
• American Red Cross is offering First Aid Review at the Polk County Red Cross Office, 5:30-7:30 p.m., 715-485-3025, www.scvarc.org.
Frederic
• Blood pressure screening at Bremer Bank, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. • Pokeno at the senior center, 1 p.m. • Exploration Station Toddler Play Group begins at the elementary school, 4-6 p.m., 715327-4221, ext. 159.
St. Croix Falls
• Good Samaritan Society - St. Croix Valley Auxiliary meeting, 1:30 p.m. in the community room at the center, 715-483-2722.
Taylors Falls, Minn.
• Catholicism 101 Class begins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 10-week study, 9:3011:30 a.m., 651-465-7345.
THURSDAY/8 A&H
• Community dinner to be held at the Lakeside Community Lutheran Church, at 5 p.m., 715-635-7791.
Balsam Lake
• American Red Cross is offering Infant/Child Review at the Polk County Red Cross Office, 5:30-8 p.m., 715-485-3025, www.scvarc.org.
Frederic
• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.
Siren
• Sheep Management WisLine teleconference at the Extension office, 7:30-9 p.m., 715635-3508, 800-528-1914. • Burnett County Relay for Life Kickoff and Open House at the Lodge at Crooked Lake, 5-8 p.m., 800-947-0487 ext. 2070 or www.relayforlife.org/burnettwi. • Dining at Five Dinner at the senior center, 5 p.m., 715-349-2845.
FRI. & SAT./9 & 10 St. Croix Falls
• Leo Kottke at Festival Theatre, 7:30 p.m., 715-483-3387, 888-887-6002.
Grand opening set for new boutique in St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS – Ewe-nique Boutique is a new shop located in downtown St. Croix Falls. The boutique has joined the In the Wool shop, which is located five doors north of Festival Theatre, on Washington St./Hwy. 87. Ewe-nique Boutique offers specialty yarns, including hand-spun, hand-dyed, and organic yarns. They also offer handmade items, knitting, crochet, and stitchery supplies and classes. The grand opening of the boutique will be held on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 3 and 4. Customers will receive 20 percent off any one regular priced item that weekend. And on Saturday, Grecco’s on the St. Croix will be catering the event. Shop hours are Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. “I believe we were all created with the ability to make beautiful things with our hands. I also believe that we have a deep need to socialize with one another. When you combine both of those things—getting together with friends and creating wonderful things—you achieve balance, peace and contentment in an otherwise hectic world,” says Shelley Staeven, owner of Ewe-nique Boutique. Ewe-nique Boutique is located at 236 N. Washington Street, St. Croix Falls. To reach the boutique, call 715483-2802 or visit their Web site at: www.ewe-niqueboutique.com. - submitted