Horzions - Winter 2003

Vol. 18, No. 2, Winter 2002-2003

A Publication for Alumni & Friends of Bemidji State University

BSUHorizons

BSUCalendar December 6, 2002 Foundation Board Meeting December 7, 2002 Alumni Association Board Meeting December 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 2002 BSU Madrigal Dinners January 18, 2003 Beaver Pride Winter Golf January 25, 2003 BSU Snowball – Beaux Arts Ballroom February 14, 2003 MMEA Music Alumni Reception March 9-10, 2003 BSU Winter Rendezvous – Laughlin March 21, 2003 BSU Foundation Board Meeting April 26, 2003 BSU Alumni Board Meeting

Inventing Inventing Opportunities

BSUHorizons

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Andy Wells is the president of a $1 million technology company just outside Bemidji. A 1966 graduate of Bemidji State with a degree in industrial arts, he holds several U.S. patents for a variety of inventions. Awards from Fortune 500 companies adorn the main hallway of his business. This year, Wells, a member of the Red Lake Nation, was named Minnesota’s Minority Small Business Person of the Year.

And yet this accomplished man won’t tie his shoes.

Not that he can’t tie them. But as he explains, bending over to tie shoes every day is, well, annoying, time consuming and, he has found, unnecessary.

Wells invented a clip that allows him to open and close the gap over the tongues of his laced shoes without manually tying the laces.

Each day, he slips his feet in his shoes and, with the heel of the opposite foot, closes the clip, tightening the shoes to his comfort level. Presto, laced shoes are snug on his feet without Wells having to bend over.

Wells is an inventor, a trait he has held since his childhood growing up on a chicken farm in Red Lake.

“I’m always thinking of better ways of doing things,” he said. “I could show you hundreds of examples.” Like the shoelace clip.

Or the automated computer head cleaning system he built for Control Data. Or the stabilizing equipment that holds disc drives safely in military vehicles.

But it was what he calls the “chicken project” that led him to start his own company.

Wells was teaching in BSU’s Industrial Technology department when he received a Bush grant to work at Control Data, gaining hands-on experience in the field.

That led to the head cleaning invention and, a year later, to the disc stabilizing equipment.

The closing of Control Data’s plant in Minneapolis a few years later was a blessing in disguise for Wells. “Adversity brings out some

Andy Wells

“

good things,” he said. “As I drove back to Bemidji from Minneapolis, I wondered what I could do next. I thought about what I knew — chicken farming.”

Armed with hands-on knowledge of the chicken farming industry, Wells stopped at the Gold’n Plump chicken processing plant in Cold Springs. A friend worked there, and Wells received a tour. The plant, he said, was ripe with possibilities for automation. He took on a challenge that other companies wouldn’t: automating the unloading of pallets of chickens — unpredictable cargo at best. The unloading was hazardous as well, leading to numerous back injuries among employees.

This time, however, Wells was on his own when it came to financing the prototype. He used a $1,300, 1936 lathe to get started.

Months and $90,000 later, Gold’n Plump bought into the project.

“With inventing, you need to make a commitment to your idea and go for it,” he said. “It takes a lot of self-confidence that you can follow through and make it work.”

The next project was an air-powered scissors.

“Gold’n Plump employees had carpal tunnel injuries due to the repetitive nature of their work and the effort it took to cut through chicken,” he said. “They’d get off work and would struggle to start

P

art of success is being ‘significant’. It’s taking care of other people, sharing time, taking on a leadership role, providing some jobs and a good work environment.”

Andy Wells

their cars because their hands were so cramped up, they couldn’t grip the keys.”

Again, he built a prototype and took it to Gold’n Plump. Many employees were resistant at first.

Once they had the scissors in hand and saw how, by barely moving a finger, they could trigger the scissors to snap shut, they were sold.

Wells made the scissors in different sizes. He made it easy to replace the blades once they dulled.

He also made them ambidextrous.

The scissors and another Wells invention — air-powered knives — helped cut down on carpal tunnel injuries among Gold’n Plump employees. Wells has patents on both. He also created an air pressure booster that would double the air pressure to any given line, bumping up its power.

Work snowballed from there.

The equipment Wells used to create the scissors and knives also could be used to make small precision machine parts. In addition to the parts Wells Technology makes based on Wells’ inventions, the company now manufactures more than 7,000 pieces for other companies.

The small shop Wells used to design and build the automated chicken pallet loaders — “the chicken project” — has expanded and is now Wells Technology Inc. In the past dozen years, the company has grown around 20 percent a year.

Although the company he started bears his family name, Wells gives credit to all 20 of his employees. “Inventing is a group project. It’s a give and take,” he said. “And me, I’m just like the spark plug in the car, getting things started.”

To Wells, the financial success of the company and the personal recognition he receives mean little if he weren’t making a positive contribution to his community and the people in it.

“Part of success is being ‘significant,’” he said. “It’s taking care of other people, sharing time, taking on a leadership role, providing some jobs and a good work environment. I get a good feeling helping people in the area.”

Whether that help comes in the form of a paycheck or an invention that cuts down on back pain, Wells’ significance has been felt statewide.

Horizons Page 2

Hands-on for a Hands-on Art Form Hands-on LearningLearning Butch Holden (left) and student Josh Boock in the Harlow Collection

V isual arts professor Butch Holden is surrounded by shelves of ceramic vessels in the middle of a secured room on the lower level of the Education-Art Building at Bemidji State. As he talks, he casually pulls out a recently appraised $28,000 plate crafted by Peter Voulkos, a highly influential artist in the ceramic world.

His nonchalance lacks nothing in respect as he explains that Voulkos hung out with many renowned abstract expressionists of the mid-1900s and created ceramics of the same genre, eventually elevating pottery to a fine art.

Holden sees a value that transcends the $28,000 appraisal.

“Peter Voulkos knew abstract

expressionists,” Holden explains with a touch of awe as he shows the plate. “He knew those painters, and was doing the same kind of work in clay.”

In turn, Holden takes down a small terra cotta Turkish pot believed to date back to the First Century, the oldest item in the collection. As he moves about the room, he brings out other vessels crafted by notable contemporary artists as well as pieces by BSU students and other emerging potters. Each comes with a story and a lesson in ceramic history and technique.

Holden was immersed in the Margaret H. Harlow Ceramics Collection, which consists of more than 350 pieces of mostly contemporary, hand-made vessel

forms and a few rare, historical pieces. In founding the collection, Harlow left BSU with a highly valuable and personal legacy of her lifetime passion for pottery. A recent appraisal of 98 of the pieces for insurance purposes totaled $207,450.

For Bemidji State, the real value is intangible. In its diversity, Holden sees the collection as a treasure trove of studio pottery representing a wide range of techniques, glazes and philosophies that make it so valuable for teaching.

Josh Boock, a third-year ceramics student, reflected on that value by describing the feeling of holding the 1,900-year-old Turkish pot.

“To see it and know that someone long ago pushed on it and left a thumb print I can see and touch is really powerful to me,” he said.

“The biggest thing is that we can bring these pieces into class, actually see the work and handle it.

There’s so many classes where you just get to look at a book.”

Holden credits Harlow for the depth of knowledge the pottery represents.

Harlow, 90, graduated from BSU in 1936 with a degree in education and a passion for geography, stones and rock formations, all interests that she further pursued with a military career that allowed her to travel the world. Pottery became a natural extension of these passions and she began collecting pieces.

Over the years, her interest and knowledge of pottery deepened and she became a lifelong student of the art. She met potters, studied new works and eventually retired in Walnut Creek, CA, a notable pottery community where she could be close to the potters and the museums she most enjoys.

In 1973, Harlow handed then BSU president Robert Decker two cardboard boxes of her personal ceramic collection to seed the beginnings of the teaching collection. In subsequent years, she continued to seek out and contribute pottery before eventually asking a friend, Rick Sherman of

(Continued on page 3)

Bemidji State University

BSUHorizons Vol. 18, No. 2, Winter 2002 - 2003 Produced by the News and Publications Office and the Alumni Office at Bemidji State University, HORIZONS is published quarterly and distributed without charge to BSU alumni, students, faculty, staff and other friends of the University.

Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al Nohner Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Berglund Photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . John Swartz President . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jon Quistgaard Alumni Director . . . . . Marla Huss Patrias Contributing Writers . . . . . . . . Jody Grau, Colleen Burke, Cindy Serratore Editorial Assistance . . . . . . . . Peggy Nohner Editorial Board: Dr. Jon Quistgaard, BSU president; Al Nohner, director of news services and publications; Carl Baer, vice president for university advancement; Marla Huss Patrias, director of alumni relations.

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, Bemidji State University is an equal opportunity educator and employer.This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling 1-800-475-2001 or 218-755-3883. 03-207

Where We Are ... What We’re Doing International Falls Country Club. He and Violet have six grown children ranging in age from 42 to 55 …Will Sarkela (’58) was one of five people being inducted in the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame this fall. He has a remarkable 36-year teaching, coaching 1950s and administrative career at Grand Rapids High Bob Green (’57) and his wife, Peg, are retired and School. He was named District 318 activities director living in St. Petersburg, FL. They have nine in 1979 and served in that capacity until retiring in ALL CITIES ARE LOCATED IN MINNESOTA UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. grandchildren and are active in church music. Bob 1994. He was recognized by his peers as Region 7AA sings in the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, toured Athletic Director of the Year in 1987 and 1992, and Riddle Aeronautical University teaching humanities, 1920s Scotland with his church choir in June, and sang in St. the Minnesota Athletic Directors Association business, aviation and aerospace classes…

Janice Anne (Olson) Anderson (’29) taught school in Paul’s Cathedral in London in 2001… Muriel Copp honored him by selecting him to the Minnesota Williams for 33 years, retiring in 1971 when she and (Nelson) Linde (’41) and her husband, Erling, live in (’57) lives in Red Wing and works as a secretary for Athletic Directors Hall of Fame in 1999.

Moorhead.

They raised four children and have six her husband, Herman Anderson, moved to the grandchildren… Violet (Pudas) Johnson (’43) and the First Presbyterian Church of Red Wing. She Bemidji area. She was widowed in January.

1960s retired in 1993 from Red Wing Technical College her husband, Russell, are retired and living in after teaching for 36 years… John Schultz Jr. (’50) Jerry Riewer (‘60) is being inducted into the International Falls.

They have six grown children 1930s Minnesota State High School Coaches Hall of Fame, ranging in age from 42 to 55… Joyce (Dunlap) Doyle and his wife, Leila, have three grown children. He’s John Rose (’39) and his wife, Nita, recently receiving the highest honor the Coaches Association been retired for 10 years…

Dale Sorensen (’57) has celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. They live (’49) and her husband, Larry, spend their summers in served on the Two Harbors School Board for 10 years, bestows upon its members. In 1984 he was also Rockford and winters in Sun Lakes, AZ. They have in Carlton. inducted into BSU’s Athletic Hall of Fame… Jeanne three children and five grandchildren… Edna (Leen) having retired from teaching chemistry at Two Harbors. He and his wife, Jean, live in Two Harbors… Thomas (’64), a retired teachers’ union leader from 1940s Genevieve Carter-Lervik (’54) lives in Hibbing and Burnsville, was inducted May 11 into the Minnesota Oliver Titrud (’48) was recently listed in the Who’s is making plans to attend an international conference Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Women’s Hall of Who in Medicine and Health for his research and Fame. She was selected for, among other things, her in Sweden next year. She has a daughter, Joan, and practical applications of human dissection involving two grandsons… Keith Cariveau (’58) and his wife, efforts to bring teachers and young women into a new method that does not destroy upper tissues Katherine, retired in 1995 after 37 years in education. politics and the party. She served numerous roles in when studying the lower tissues. He lives in Oregon the Richfield local of the Minnesota Education They live in Livermore, CA, and have seven and has one son, Kermit… Ardis (Aho) Esala (’45, Association and traveled the country for eight years grandchildren living in the area… Agnes Macias ‘73) is retired and lives with her husband, the Rev. (’58) lives in Lorton, VA, and is planning a trip to visit giving National Education Association-sponsored T.A. Esala in New York Mills. She taught children her son in Australia this winter. She and her husband, workshops designed to inspire women to climb the with learning disabilities in Wadena for 16 years and ladder – in teacher’s union politic, in government and Albert, have five children ranging in age from 31 to retired in 1987. The couple raised four sons and a in business. Her husband, Charlie, shares her passion 39…

Russell (Hukee) Johnson (’52) and his wife, daughter… Nita Rose (’41) and her husband, John, for politics …Joe Merseth (’66) is acting as interim Violet, are retired and live in International Falls. recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. superintendent of Park Rapids schools, having retired Russell scored his first hole-in-one on Sept. 14 after They live in Carlton… Eva (Vidas) Young (’49) lives as superintendent at Frazee in June of 2001 after spending 54 years golfing as a member of the in Chula Vista, CA, and is a professor at the EmbryEdna (Leen) Skold spending 35 years in education and the last 10 years in Skold (’42) taught for 50 years and is retired and living in Milton-Freewater, OR, where she is an active volunteer. She has two children, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Noel Bailey his position at Frazee. He and his wife, Karen, who is a paraprofessional in the Detroit Lakes Schools, have three grown children, Chad, 31, Nate, 28, and Maria, 25… Noel Bailey (’63) runs the fitness program for teens and a conditioning fitness program for adults at the Hallett Community Center in Crosby. He taught social studies and coached wrestling in Aitkin for 26 years and is in his fourth year of retirement. He was inducted into the Minnesota State High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2000… Terry Potucek (’69), a Warren area farmer and tax accountant, filed as a candidate for re-election to a four-year term on the Marshall County Board. He was first elected to the board in 1994, re-elected in 1998 and is currently chairman of the county board. He is

Horizons Page 3

Bemidji State University

Hands-on Art Form

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San Jose, to visit BSU. He met with students, viewed the collection, and lectured about its importance.

“He came here, saw the way that the collection was used and wanted his collection to become part of it,” Holden recalled of Sherman, an established potter who was an advocate for ceramic education. A year after Sherman died, his wife, Marcella, donated more than 50 pieces to the collection and, as an additional gift to BSU, paid for the recent appraisal.

“Other schools, usually larger than BSU, have collections,” Holden explained. “As far as I know, they’re not likely to allow students, especially undergraduates, to actually handle the pieces,” says Holden.

Sue Kringen, director of major gifts and planned giving for the BSU Foundation, says the collection’s value is immeasurable for enhancing the educational experience.

“Bemidji State would never be able to have a collection like this without Margaret,” said Kringen.

“She has given us far more than she knows. Because of her and Rick, and now the generosity of Marcella, we have incredible assets for our students.”

Asked about her motivation to give so much, Harlow quickly commented, “I received my degree from there, and they deserve it more than any place I’ve been.”

She also noted that she appreci-

ates hearing from students who have experienced the collection.

One of those is Cyrus Swann.

He remembers the thrill of finding the works of a favorite potter, Frank Boyden, in the collection.

Since then, he has come to appreciate the wide range of ceramics that Harlow collected, which he finds especially impressive because she is not an artist.

“The fact that she collected all different forms and pots is really important for teaching,” says Swann. “It’s representative of all the different styles and techniques.

It’s almost like she thought of doing it more as a collection for the University than for herself.”

A senior, Swann received the Harlow Ceramics Scholarship, which Harlow endowed in support of students studying ceramics.

After that, Swann arranged to meet Harlow when he traveled to California. True to form, Harlow encouraged Swann to keep working hard at his craft, and he has.

Swann recently was busy examining a collection of spouted cans in the BSU studio. He hopes someday to be a studio potter and teacher, and already has a couple of his own pieces included in the Harlow Collection where they stand among the works of Voulkos, Boyden and other notable potters.

“That is a real honor for me to have pots in the collection,” says Swann just before heading back to the studio where the learning continues.

the board’s representative on the Pembina Trail Resource Conservation and Development Board and Northwest Household Hazardous Waste Joint Powers Board. He and his wife, Joan, have one son, Joey… Robert Ostlund (’66) of Shakopee has accepted a two-year position as interim headmaster of St. Thomas Academy. He served as school superintendent in Shakopee from 1991 until his retirement in June 2000, then served as interim superintendent of the North St. Paul-MaplewoodOakdale School District from July 2000 to April 2001. After that he joined the Midwest Management Resources consulting group… Eileen Lien (’68) has retired from teaching at the Frank Lien Elementary School in Gonvick, named after her husband who died seven years ago. She has been teaching second graders there since 1977 and began teaching in the Bagley Public School in 1968, moving on to her first job in the Gonvick-Trail School in 1969. She has three children, Mark, Stacy and John, and two grandchildren… Harry Salminen (’67) is a candidate for Becker County Commissioner District 2. He is an independent businessman, a former educator in the Detroit Lakes school system and a former employee of the Governor’s Manpower Office, specializing in economic development in rural areas… Diane Lehse (’66) is the new superintendent of school at the Clearbrook-Gonvick District. During the past five years she’s been superintendent at Kelliher. She started her education career as a teacher in the Rosemount Senior High School and then went to the University of Alaska as a graduate assistant and then an instructor. She has a son and daughter living in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. She and her husband, Ron, live in Gonvick…

Beverly (Schinderle) Pfeilstifter (’63) and her husband, Chuck, are retired and living in Racine, WI. They recently bought a winter home in Florida…

Richard Sauer (’62) and his wife, Lorraine, of Bemidji have three grown children and nine grandchildren. He is a retired school principal and she is a retired teacher… Larry Erie (’62) of Pinewood was elected to the Faribault High School Sports Hall of fame in October. He and his wife, Gladys, have three grown children… Arleen (Beiswenger) Boyd (’61) is enjoying retirement and escaping to Arizona in the winter. She makes many visits with her certified therapy dog, Augie… Chuck Clausen (’68) is retired and living in St. Cloud with his wife, Rosemary. He taught elementary school for 32 years, was a sports official for 35 years and the PA “Voice of SCSU Husky Hockey” for many years, as well. The Clausens have two grown children, Jill and Debbie… Wanda (Forsland) Petersen (’68) of Turtle River is a painter and serves as coordinator of the Fly By Night Art Space, a gallery in Bemidji. She and her husband, Warren, have two grown children and one grandson…

Pat (Meyer) Syvertsen (’68) and Paul Syvertsen (’68) live in New Haven, CT, and have two children, Kai, 26, and Erik, 21… Jacqueline Olson (’64) of Northome is a retired teacher and is active in Delta Kappa Gamma. She has three grown children…

Diane Hoselton Genova (’62) of Pueblo, CO, is the director of a preschool. She has two grown children, Christopher, 30, and Carrie, 28… Colleen Blade (’69) lives in Nashwauk where she is an active volunteer, particularly in the “Relay for Life,” a fund raising event for cancer research… Norman Hecimovich (’60) of Austin is retired and enjoying hunting, fishing and traveling. He and his wife, Helen, have three

(Continued )

IS THE KEY

Campaign 2002-2003

Music is Key for Fund Raising Initiative Bemidji State University fine tuned an initiative to raise funds for its music program during a simultaneous performance by 20 musicians on 20 new upright pianos last fall in the Bangsberg Fine Arts Complex.

The pianists were celebrating the halfway point of the campaign to raise $811,000 for instruments, pianos, scholarships, equipment maintenance, and an endowed visiting artist series. Grants, gifts and donations have already raised over $463,500 with most of the money used to purchase new pianos and to build a state-of-the-art technology lab.

A gift of $10,000 was also announced to establish the Ron Gearman Scholarship in honor of the professor emeritus of music who served as a music faculty member at BSU for 31 years, many of them as department chairperson.

“The Music is the Key campaign will mean many things to our program,” said Dr. Del Lyren, current chair of the department. “It will nearly double the scholarships we can offer new and returning students. It will allow us to purchase and replace band instruments.

“By the start of the spring semester, we will have a new nine-foot Steinway concert grand in the Recital Hall. Bemidji State owns more Steinway grand pianos than any other school in the state, and funds from this effort will help the University repair and maintain our piano inventory.”

The purchase of new pianos is one goal of the Music is the Key campaign.

The Schmitt Music Company and a grant from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) provided the $206,000 needed to secure the 30 instruments.

A donation from the SoundTree Company and another MnSCU grant was used to equip the music lab in Bangsberg.

“This new technology will assist in training and preparing future teachers for the modern classroom,” Lyren said of the $180,000 facility. “The entire effort is designed to make the BSU Music Department a destination music school for the upper Midwest.”

In addition to the grants and corporate gifts, $77,500 has been raised from individuals for the campaign. To reach the $811,000 goal in one year, the Music Department is accepting donations and pledges. It is also offering sponsorship opportunities, where individuals may donate a minimum of $5,000 to have a name inscribed on a music practice room, classroom, or lab space.

Individuals interested in participating in the Music is the Key campaign may contact the Bemidji State University Foundation at 218-755-2762.

grown sons, James, 40, Mark, 38, and Bryan, 33…

Leroy Larson (’61) is a founding member of the Minnesota Scandinavian Ensemble which has toured the Midwest for more than 20 years, performing at festivals, concerts, dances and made many television and radio performances …Katherine (Johnson) Cariveau (’60) and her husband, Keith, retired in 1995 after 37 years in education. They live in Livermore, CA, and have seven grandchildren living in the area.

districts entire band program for grades 5-12…

Bonnie Lindgren (’75) of Spicer has spent six years teaching in Cairo, Egypt, and continues living and teaching there this year. Prior to that she spent six years teaching in Pakistan and two years in Milan, Italy… Tom Peltier (’73) is seeking a position on the District 318 School Board. He’s been a resident of Itasca County for the past 33 years, lives in rural Cohasset with his wife, Kathy, and has a daughter, Roberta, who graduated in 2000 from Grand Rapids High School. He’s worked for Itasca County for the 1970s past 20 years as a county juvenile probation officer Claudia Risnes (’71) has been named executive and prior to that served as an Itasca County deputy director of teaching and learning with Minnetonka sheriff for 10 years… Julie Zeto (’75) and her Public Schools. She brings to the new position nine husband, Dennis, of Bemidji recently celebrated years of leadership experience in curriculum, their 25th wedding anniversary… Mike Stanich instruction, assessment and staff development and (’72) of International Falls filed as a candidate for the had previously served as director of curriculum, post of Koochiching County auditor-treasurer. He’s instruction and assessment for the Anoka-Hennepin served for the past 26 years as budget director for the School District. Prior to that she’d held the same City of International Falls and during that time position in Stillwater… Harry A. Christensen (’79) served as acting city administrator for four months. and his wife, Annette, live in Lebanon, TN, and are In 1973 he served as Minnesota state auditor and anticipating the birth of their first child. He graduated from 1973 –76 filled the post of city accountant in from the Nashville School of Hastings. He and his wife, Vicky, have two children, Law in 2000 and operates a Shawn and Nicole… Mike Forsberg (’74) received private practice… Arla (Kari) his ordination certificate August 1. He’d been a Nummelin (’73) and her pastor at Walworth Baptist Church of rural Ulen for husband, Ollie, live in Covelo, the past few years and had been licensed to preach by CA, and have three children, the First Baptist Church of Park Rapids since 1988…

Charles, 22, Minna, 13, and David Pratt (’74) is the new chairman of the Detroit Kari, 8 …James Best (’77) took Lakes Chamber of Commerce. He’s employed as over the job of band director at director of video operations for Arvig CommunicaStewartville High School this tions Systems and has been in the cable television fall. He taught last year in industry in the area for more than 20 years. His wife, Barnum where he headed the James Best

Deb, works for Bremer Bank in Detroit Lakes, and his two children attend the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks… Gordon Sirvio (’75) has selfpublished four suspense novels through his own publishing company called Taconite Runes, writing under the name of S.A. Gordon. The books were previously published electronically and are entitled The Deuce of Pentacles, Faces of Doom, Days Between Seasons and Crystal Clear Pond. All four are set in northern Minnesota and include references to Minnesota life… Steve Bolton (’74), a Park Rapids attorney since 1989, is seeking election to the Cass County judgeship in the Ninth Judicial District. He lives in rural Nevis with his wife, Tami, and their children, Alice and Nick… Ellen Weber (’77) and Richard Segler were married June 15 at Bemidji State Park and live in Bemidji… Glen Christianson (’75) and his wife, Vivian, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Steve Bolton June… John Tibstra (’79) and Sue Tibstra (’76) of Bemidji recently received the Johnson-Jarvi Snowjourn Award in honor of their long-term commitment and support of cross country skiing in the Bemidji area… Rick Kleinschmidt (’77), a Willmar police sergeant, filed as a candidate for sheriff of Kandiyohi County. He has 27 years of police experience and has served 20 of (Continued on page 4)

Horizons Page 4

Alumni Author Roy C. Booth Stages Life Of all the plays he’s written, Roy

C. Booth has two favorites: Beanie and the Bamboozling Book Machine and Café a la Ionesco.

He has a lot to choose from, with more than 40 to his credit and 25 in print. But these two stand out for the Bemidji State University graduate for a variety of reasons.

They may be his favorites because they are dramatically different. Beanie is a children’s play and Ionesco an absurdist farce.

Or the appeal may be the settings.

The first is about the adventures of a boy who doesn’t like to read, so he invents a book-reading machine that conjures up the mischievous witches from fairy tales when it is turned on. The latter is about a hellish romantic encounter in a fancy restaurant located in Nymore – yes Nymore.

Then again, it might be that Beanie was the first play published, with co writers Bob May and Christopher Tibbetts, while Ionesco was the latest.

“One is for kids, the other for freethinkers,” Booth said. “Beanie is produced a lot due to its cast size, fantasy elements, and heart.

Ionesco because it’s straight to the jugular humor.”

That the plays come to audiences from different points of the theatrical compass is no surprise. In addition to farce and children’s genre, his credits include science fiction, comedy, horror, and satire.

“I write plays from stories that I feel need to be told, and let them find their own audience from there,” he said. “I start with a sound premise that has a certain desired theatrical effect or message in mind. I like to skew certain notions and theatrical conventions as well.

“The success, I strongly feel, comes from my experience not only as a writer, but as a theatre person who has directed, played around with lighting theory, and all of the other wonderful aspects of the art of live suspension of disbelief.”

He has directed his plays and his collaborations in productions across northern Minnesota, most recently with the Grand Rapids Players.

“I prefer to direct my solo works after they’ve been published, not before,” he commented. “Sometimes I have to for convenience sake and then I use a pseudonym if I can get away with it.

“In contrast I love directing works I’ve co-written, especially those I’ve done with my wife, Cynthia, in order to see what I’ve added to the works or not, and to bring out my collaborator’s strength even more.”

A graduate of Pillager High School, Booth came to Bemidji State via Brainerd Community College, where his interest in theater was ignited. He graduated from BSU twice, first with a bachelor’s degree and later with a master’s.

Booth has also been published as a poet, journalist, essayist, short story

Roy C. Booth

writer, and a writer of comic gags.

He is currently writing a scholarly work on Norse mythology that could become the foundation for a series of novels. If he musters enough courage in the future, he would like to write comic books.

But plays, primarily short ones, have brought him some degree of notoriety. His works have been staged more than 350 times, from Los Angeles to New York City; from Vancouver, BC, to Houston; from London to Perth; from New Delhi to Brasila. His AIDS play, Vicious Circle, was performed at the 1995 International Aids Conference and won seven awards.

He tries to write at least two hours, or six good pages, a day, five days a week. While it takes discipline to be productive, he finds it therapeutic and cathartic.

He then has time to spend with

his three-year-old son Riordan.

While the impetus for writing comes from within, the motivation comes from the outside. He noted that he patterns most of his children’s plays on a study done in Boston in the 1970s where urban kids were exposed to a series of plays based on other cultures. Ten years later, it was discovered that the same group had a significantly smaller chance to be involved in hate crimes, racism, theft and other social problems.

He noted that it was, “Proof positive of the true power of the stage and how it can directly improve the quality of life in our society.”

21. She’s in her 25th year of working with the same employment and training agency… Jack Plattner (’70) of Gary began teaching industrial arts this fall at the Ulen-Hitterdal School District. He and his wife, Susan, have three grown children. She is a special education instructor… Jeff Galle Sr. (’78) is the new instrumental music instructor for fifth- through eighth-grade bands, junior varsity band, varsity band, jazz bands and solos and small ensembles at Warroad. He spent the past 24 years teaching at Heron Lake-Okabena School District and has also been active in coaching softball, football and golf…

Jeanne Randall (’77) is teaching first grade at Centerville Elementary School. She and her husband, Dave, live in Lino Lakes and have two sons, Michael, 19, and Jeff, 17… Nancy (Hagen) Staiger (’76) of Moorhead is currently a stay-at-home mother and foster parent. She and her husband, Doug, have five children, Greta, 25, Marissa, 22, Tony, 16, Stephanie, 16, and Alicia, 15… Nancy Ainswork Flynn (’76) works for the Red Cross and is involved with historical neighborhood issues. She and her husband, Bill, live in Brookings, SD, and have four children, Kayla, 20, Susan, 17, BJ, 14, and Mike, 10… Sherry Heaton (’77) recently accepted a new position as assistant principal at Simle Middle School in Bismarck, ND, after having taught middle school science for 21 years. She and her husband, Lewis, live in McKenzie, ND, and have an eightyear-old daughter, Ellie… Joyce Rideout (’79) lives in Brainerd and enjoys doing volunteer work…

Roger Reierson (’73) is owner and CEO of Flint Communication in Fargo, Grand Forks and Duluth.

He and his wife, Arlene, live in Moorhead and have two children, Andy, 23, and Alissa, 19.

1980s

This is the second in a series of article on authors who graduated from BSU. If you know of such an author, contact the News and Publications office at 1-888-234-7794, 218-755-2041, or news@bemidjistate.edu.

Where We Are ... What We’re Doing those in Willmar and Kandiyohi County. He and his wife, Sharon, have five children and one granddaughter. He is a member of the Minnesota Peace and Police Officer’s Association, the Sons of the American Legion and Willmar Development Corporation… David Ambers (’72) and Betty Ambers (’71) live and work in North Branch and have two grown children, Kelli, 22, and Casey, 20.

David is a social studies teacher and golf coach and Betty serves as a parent educator with ECFE… Connie Dahl Nelson (’72) of Roseau is currently working a combined position of superintendent and elementary principal at the Lake of the Woods School at Baudette. She and her husband, Bruce, have two children, Chad, 30, and Kellie, 27… Richard Lyttle (’72) has retired but is teaching a community college class at CNCC covering the history of northwestern Colorado. He and his wife, Mary Beth, live in Meeker, CO… Sharon Botelle-Sherman (’74) of Woodbury, CT, is semi-retired from a career in marketing and advertising and is tutoring seventhgraders. She and her husband, Norman, have three grown children, Leslie Koliha, Kathy Wolhart and Brett Sherman… Julia Sullivan (’76) of Moorhead sings in two choirs and volunteers at her church. She retired from 44 years of teaching in 1997… Tom Swanson (’70) has taught for 32 years in the Brainerd elementary schools and his wife, Helen, has taught elementary classes in the same school district for 25 years. They live in Brainerd and have three children, Angie, 23, Sara, 19, and Maria, 16… James Toensing (’70) lives in Burnsville and helps care for his mother who lives in the Apple Valley Health care Center. He sings with the Bemidji Alumni Choir and is a deputy grand knight with Council 2400 in

Farmington… Judith Riggles (’70) lives in Cass Lake with her husband, Bill, and has retired from a 32-year career of teaching at Cass Lake Elementary School... Wayne Gartland (’77) and his wife, Susan, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in August. He works for Experior Assessments in St. Paul… Georgia Siers Press (’78) works as an assistant in an elementary school media center. She and her husband, Mike, live in Cary, IL, and have two children, Jeff, 21, and Greg, 18… Joe Vene (’74) filed as a mayoral candidate in Bemidji… Stanley Ostrowski (’71) and his wife, Connie, are retired and living in Melrose, FL. They have two grown children, Susan and Dennis. He is currently building an airplane to replace the Cessna 172 that he flew for more than 21 years. Stanley spent 26 years as a teacher and principal with St. Lucie County School System and served 22 years in the U.S. Army, both active and reserve… Alyce Larson Thureen (’75) and her husband, Carroll, live in International Falls and have three grown children… Stephen Menart

Stephen Menart

(’73) and his wife, Merline, live in Gilbert where he creates metal sculptures including “fire fish.” He’d previously worked at LTV Steel in Hoyt Lakes… Glennis Olson (’71) teaches fifth grade at Frazee Elementary and is anticipating becoming a grandmother for the first time in March.

Terry Mejdrich She lives in Frazee and has four grown children ranging in age from 20 to 29… Terry Mejdrich (’70) of Swatara recently completed a mystery-adventure-suspense novel set in northern Minnesota entitled A Mammoth Resurrection. He and his wife, Darlene, have two grown children, Eric, 29, and Angie, 26… John Skradski (’77) and Jana (Gearman) Skradski (’72) live in Fort Collins, CO, where John works as a publisher and Jana as a payroll accountant. They’ve been married 28 years and have two sons, Ryan, 18, and David, 16… Tom O’Brien (’71) and Stephanie (Araskog) O’Brien (’71) live in Richville and have two grown children, Staci, 32, and Keely, 27. Tom retired from teaching at New York Mills High School in 2000 and Stephanie works as a math teacher in the Fergus Falls School District… Terri (Simmerman) Simons (’76) and her husband, Doug, live in the Pillager area and have two sons, Nick, 16, and Zak,

Mona Carter (’82) filed as a candidate in November’s Bemidji School Board election… Dave Evenson (’84) and Jess Ward (’96), both of Bemidji, are planning a May wedding. Dave is a physical education and health teacher at Ponemah Elementary School and Jess is an agency specialist with State Farm Insurance… Jack Vizecky (’86) filed for re-election to his office of Lincoln County sheriff for a third term. He’s lived in Lincoln County ever since he was honorably discharged from the military in 1969 and served as police chief in Hendricks for 11 years, a Lincoln County deputy sheriff for four years and has been Lincoln County sheriff for two terms. He’s married with four children, lives in rural Ivanhoe and is a member of the Shaokatan Sportsmen’s Club, Ivanhoe Community Club, Minnesota Sheriff’s Association and the National Sheriff’s Association… Robin Finke (’88) filed as a candidate for Swift County Attorney, having served in that post for the past two years, filling a vacancy created when the previous county attorney was appointed as a district court judge. He worked for seven years as a staff attorney for Legal Aid Service of Northeastern Minnesota in its Virginia office and is currently the treasurer and a member of the board of directors of the Humane Society of Swift County. He and his wife, Lisa, live in Benson… Paul Tschida (’85) filed for re-election as Morrison County Sheriff. He is a lifelong resident of Morrison County and he and his wife, Lila, have two grown children, Mike and Becky. Tschida, a Navy veteran, began his law enforcement career 27 years ago as a special deputy and then worked as a

Horizons Page 5

Boyd Bradbury

Curtis Olson

Denis Sauter

Lowell Scearcy

Jeff Wallin

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI HONORED Six graduates of Bemidji State University received Outstanding Alumni Awards during an October 4 banquet as part of 2002 Homecoming festivities on campus.

Receiving the awards were: Jeff Baumgartner, criminal justice, 1977, Bemidji; Boyd Bradbury, Spanish, 1988, Callaway; Curtis Olson, music, 1972, East Lansing, MI; Denis Sauter, speech and theater, 1970, Carlton; Lowell Scearcy, mathematics, 1967, East Gull Lake; and Jeff Wallin, music, 1970, San Diego, CA. The Outstanding Alumni Award was established to recognize the contributions BSU graduates have made to their professions, communities and alma mater. Since 1972, 102 individuals have received the recognition. is the founder and president of American Time and Signal, a company that has grown into one of the nation’s largest clock manufacturing enterprises that now employs over 100 people in Dassel, MN. An active Rotarian for more than 20 years, he has made two trips to Honduras with medical and dental teams. He is also a volunteer youth hockey coach.

JEFF BAUMGARTNER

BOYD BRADBURY previously served as a teacher in Wadena and Blue Earth schools as well as a principal of Benson High School prior to accepting his current position as the superintendent of Waubun Public Schools in 2000. He is the past

full-time jailer-dispatcher while completing his college degree… David Harrington (’82) of Turtle River topped a field of five candidates in September’s primary election for the post of Cass County district judge and faced Ted Lundrigan in the Nov. 5 general election. He is also general counsel to the Red Lake Band of Chippewa, managed a resort in Cass County and was a high school teacher and coach in Warroad, Cass Lake and Brainerd… Barbara Meuers (’88) was elected to the Bemidji City Council, serving in an at-large capacity. She works at the Minnesota Workforce Center… Jim DeWenter (’82) was named Bemidji Education Association’s Teacher of the Year for 2002 and will compete for state teacher of the year in November. He teaches 10th-grade biology and anatomy and physiology for 11th and 12th grades and has been teaching at Bemidji High School for 32 years. He was also named the Bemidji Wal-Mart’s Teacher of the Year in June and qualifies for a state competition there, as well… Michael Spry (’83) is president and owner of Portage Environmental, Inc., an environmental consulting and engineering firm based in Idaho Falls, ID, that was recently named the national Minority Service Firm of the Year by the Minority Business Development Agency. The MBDA recognized Portage for growing successfully in spite of starting with little capital and also for job creation, involvement with Native American communities and high customer satisfaction.

Incorporated in 1992, Portage has grown to more than 150 employees located in offices nationwide, with revenues approaching $20 million in 2002. In 2001, Portage was included in the Inc. 500 List as the 79th fastest growing business in America. Spry is a Mississippi Band member of the Minnesota

president of the Minnesota River Valley Principals’ Association, was a member on the Minnesota Technology Taskforce in Benson, and a former president of the Chippewa Valley chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association.

CURTIS OLSON is a professor and the associate director for undergraduate studies for the School of Music at Michigan State University. He received a master’s degree from the Eastman School of Music and has performed in such major ensembles as the Detroit Symphony and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

The recipient of many honors, he most recently was presented with the Neil Humfeld Award, a recognition given to one individual annually for teaching excellence by the International Trombone Association.

DENIS SAUTER has filled a variety of roles since joining the Carlton High School staff in 1971. In addition to teaching, he directed school musicals for 31 years, served as athletic director for five years, and coached track for eight years. A high school hockey and volleyball official, he has served on the Carlton County community theater board and was on the Minnesota High School League athletic director advisor board for three years.

retired from teaching in 1999 following a 32-year career in the classroom, most of those spent at Brainerd High School. His 466 wins over 30 years as the Brainerd

LOWELL SCEARCY

Chippewa Tribe and grew up on the White Earth Indian Reservation in northwestern Minnesota… Loren Jansen (’81) filed as a candidate for the post of Nicollet County sheriff. He has worked for the St. Peter Police Department for the past 20 years, 15 of which he served as a patrol sergeant. He’s been certified as an emergency manager by the Minnesota Department of Emergency Management and worked as a drug abuse resistance education officer for six years. He’s married and has three daughters, ages 16, 15 and 11… Tom Norgel (’84) is development director of the new Minnesota Fair Grounds Foundation and a resident of Macalester-Groveland.

The foundation’s mission is to preserve maintain and improve the state fairgrounds. He was previously senior membership manager at Twin Cities Public Television… Pat Sauer (’87) of Detroit Lakes is seeking the office of Becker County auditor. He is a consultant in the areas of trucking and estates and is also a part-time employee at Lunde Ford. His previous experience includes spending seven years as auditor at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, serving as part-owner and manager of Tires Plus and managing a private oil business… Darrell Carter Pat Sauer (’82), a Bemidji attorney and certified public accountant, filed as a candidate for Minnesota’s District 4 Senate seat. He’s been married for 20 years, has six children and is a Navy veteran…

Clayton Liend (’84) filed as a candidate for mayor of

Outstanding

Jeff Baumgartner

baseball coach is the third highest win total of any hardball coach in the state.

Twice named the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coach of the year, he guided the Warriors to 12 conference and eight section titles while winning two state championships. He also served 21 years as the junior high basketball coach and 29 years as an assistant football coach at Central Lakes College.

JEFF WALLIN completed a tour of Vietnam as a pilot in the U.S. Navy following graduation. In 1978 he resigned his commission and became an anti-submarine pilot in the Naval Reserve, reaching the rank of captain.

During this time he began working in marketing and telecommunications business development on an international scale and is currently the president and CEO of Patriot Scientific Corporation. He also founded a consulting company in 1999 that supports multimedia systems integration and communication technologies.

Alumni Reception at Beaver Men’s Hockey Conference Tournament The Alumni Association will be hosting a reception at this year’s College Hockey America (CHA) conference tournament on Friday, March 14, 2003, in Kearney, NB. Details on the reception will be included in the February edition of HORIZONS. Tournament play will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday of that weekend, with the championship game scheduled for Sunday at 5 p.m. The winner of the CHA conference now has an automatic berth in the 16-team NCAA national championship playoffs.

Tickets for the tournament are available through Greg Shea, vice president for the Tri-City Storm Hockey Team in Kearney.

He can be reached via email at greg@stormhockey.com.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 2003 BSU OUTSTANDING ALUMNI Nominations are now being accepted for candidates to be considered for the Bemidji State University Outstanding Alumni Award.

The Outstanding Alumni Award is presented annually during Homecoming. It is the highest honor presented by the Alumni Association. The recipients of the award bring much recognition to their alma mater through distinguished and professional achievements. They are honored for exceptional service and contributions to Bemidji State University and to their community, state and nation.

All nominees must have graduated no less than 10 years ago from Bemidji State University. Nominations will be accepted until January 31, 2003, and can be made by anyone except an immediate family member. Current faculty, staff and members of the board of directors of the BSU Alumni Association are not eligible for consideration.

A nomination form can be obtained by calling the Alumni Association at 1-877-2782586 (toll free), 218-755-3989 (local), via email at alumni@bemidjistate.edu or by going to the website, info.bemidji state.edu/alumni/awards.

Keewatin. He and his wife, Sharla, have a grown son, Blake, and a daughter, Breanna, a high school senior… Mike Coltom (’88) is teaching high school industrial technology at McGregor.

He’s worked in various aspects of the construction industry during the past 14 years and, for the past Randy Wilson eight years, he and his wife have operated their own furniture restoration business… Randy Wilson (’80) currently serves on the Glencoe City Council and filed as a candidate to the District 2 commissioner’s post in McLeod County.

He and his wife, Kay, have lived in Glencoe for 17 years and have a daughter, Sarah, 16, and a son, Tim, 14… Becky Carlson (’85) works as a half-time special education teacher in the New London-Spicer School District. Her husband, Paul, is the assistant superintendent of the district, and they have three children, Nick, Nate and Meghan… David McPherson (’82) filed as a candidate for re-election to the Ward 2 Albert Lea City Council seat. He owns Customized Computer Service, a company providing services for personal computers and computer networks. He and his wife, David McPherson

Rebecca, have a 17-year-old son, Nick…Doug Lindgren (’81) filed as a candidate to the District 2B State House of Representatives seat. He and his wife, Colleen, own Harwood Oil in Bagley and she is clerk-treasurer of the City of Bagley. They have three children, Jeremiah, Justin and Rebekah…

Colleen Chambers (’83) teaches seventh and eighth grade physical education and serves as the high school’s varsity volleyball coach at Jordan Public Schools. She lives in Belle Plaine with her three daughters, ages, 11, 8 and 3… Dwight Baker (’81) was named program director at the Overseas Ministries Study Center in New Haven, CT, in July.

Most recently, he and his wife, Lois, worked for seven years at the U.S. Center for World Mission in Pasadena, CA, before moving to New Haven for the new position… Mark Saiger (’84) is the director of bands at Grand Rapids High School… David Arola (’80) and Terryl (Wordelman) Arola (’80) live in Pine City and have two children, Rob, 18, and Andy, 16. David is principal of Pine City Elementary School and Terryl is a Pine County court services director, administering county probation services…

Gregory Will (’80) lives in Bemidji and is working toward his master of science in education degree in special needs… Michael Musich (’87) and his wife, Donna, live in International Falls and have two children, Kelsie, 15, and Brett, 9… Virginia (Hoemberg) Schwichtenberg (’84) received her master’s in special education from St. Cloud State University in December of 2000. She and her husband, Clement, live in Staples and have two sons, Mathew, 19, and Wyat, 13… Karen Sletten Mattson (’80) is employed as a special education teacher in Warroad. She and her husband, LeRoy,

live in Warroad and have three children, Ryan, 15, Lisa, 13, and Stephen, 10… Debbie Anderson (’87) and her husband, Tom, live in Sauk Centre and have one daughter, Stephanie, 11… Nellie Wegscheid (’80) and her husband, Jerry, live in Wadena and have 12 grandchildren… Mark Edwards (’82) works as an accessibility specialist with the State of Minnesota Building Codes and Standards. He and his wife, Clair, live in Pine River… Marilyn (Gunderson) Hood (’85) teaches English at Bagley High School, directs plays in the drama department, serves as senior class advisor and coaches volleyball. She and her husband, Joel, live in Bagley and have three children, Hillary, 14, Katie, 11, and Andrea, 9… Debbie Todd (’86) teaches first grade in St. Francis and completed her master’s degree in 2001. She and her fiancé, Floyd, live in Andover… Kari Stadem (’84) and her husband, Peter, raise turkeys on a farm in Blomkest.

They have seven children, Michelle, 14, David, 12, Joel, 10, Daniel, 10, Sarah, 6, Andrew, 4, and Philip, 1… John Deden (’89), a social studies teacher at Bemidji High School, is participating in a twoweek study tour on economic education in Ukraine and Lithuania. The program is conducted by the National Council on Economic Education. He has taught civics, government and economics at BHS for 11 years… Jill Katrin (’86) teaches second grade in District 361. She and her husband, Mike, live in International Falls and have two children, Angie, 20, and Andrew, 14… Gary Heaton (’85) and Judy Heaton (’88) live in Mandan, ND, and have two grown children, Brandon, 25, and Shannon, 23. Gary is a pastor for the Lutheran Mission congregation and Judy teaches elementary school… Rockford Lhotka (Continued on page 6)

Athletic Hall of Fame

Horizons Page 6

Ann Pavlik

Betty Hughes

Blane Comstock

David Sjoblad

Diane Pettis

Donald Schmeckpeper

Mark Eagles

Pat Sartell

EIGHT ADDED TO ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

Bemidji State University inducted eight new members into the Athletic Hall of Fame during a ceremony and banquet October 19.

The 2002 inductees were Blane Comstock, Warroad; Mark Eagles, St. Paul; Betty Hughes, Roseville; Anne Pavlik, Akeley; Diane Pettis, Sebeka; Pat Sartell, Marysville, CA; Don Schmeckpeper, Bemidji; and David “Dave” Sjoblad, Pequot Lakes.

The BSU Athletic Hall of Fame was started in 1978 and holds an induction ceremony every two years.

There are currently 137 members in the Hall of Fame.

Nominees must have attended BSU no less than 20 years ago, earned an athletic letter at BSU, and attended BSU for at least two years.

Selections are based on merit in four categories: athletic accomplishments while at BSU, post collegiate professional accomplishments, service and contributions to a broader community, and volunteer service or financial support to BSU. BLANE COMSTOCK was a three-time NAIA All-America goalie and led the BSU men’s hockey team to four straight national titles from 1967 to 1970. He was named small college Most Valuable Player in 1969 and NAIA championship Most Valuable Player in 1970. Inducted into the NAIA Hall of Fame in 1977, he holds BSU records in career shutouts (11) most career wins (68), and most wins in a season (24). He competed on three U.S. National Teams and the 1976 U.S. Olympic Team. He has been teaching in Warroad, where he coached the boys high school hockey team until 1991. The 1986 Warroad Teacher of the Year, he is a volun-

teer in the Jump Rope for Heart and the Special Olympics.

MARK EAGLES was a four-time NAIA All-America player and fourtime all-conference member of the BSU men’s hockey team from 19721976. The team captain his senior year, he played on three conference championship teams and one national championship team in 1973, when he was named to the all-tournament squad. One of the most prolific scorers in team history, he had 100 goals and 125 assists in 116 games. He holds the school record in four categories: most career goals (100), most unassisted career goals (18), most career hat tricks (7), and most career unassisted goals (7). He is currently employed with Mentor Corporation as a regional sales manager. He has more than 20 years of coaching youth hockey in Roseville.

BETTY HUGHES was a four-time letter winner in basketball and volleyball from 1976-1980. The captain of the BSU volleyball team for two years, she led the squad to three 30-plus win seasons, several appearances in MAIAW state and regional playoffs, was the Northern Sun Conference MVP her senior year, twice was All-MAIAW, and once named to the All-AIAW Region 6 squad. She was a starting guard and a senior captain on two conference championship basketball teams. Now a respiratory therapist, she received the Distinguished Service Award from the University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinic in 1993, has been a 20year participant in USVBA volleyball leagues, and was named to the BSU women’s athletics 30-year anniversary team in 2000.

ANN PAVLIK was a four-sport athlete, competing in field hockey, volleyball, basketball, and track and field. She earned seven letters during her career at BSU, including four in track and field where she was the MAIAW state champion in the 1973 javelin throw. She is currently in her 29th year as a teacher in the WalkerHackensack-Akeley school system.

As a coach, her 20-year record in volleyball was 278-149 while she guided her teams to three regional tournament appearances and to a third-place in the 1978 state tournament. She has been active in coaching associations at all levels and is a past president of the Minnesota Volleyball Coaches Association and the National American Volleyball Coaches Association.

DIANE PETTIS, a 1976 graduate, competed on Bemidji State championship teams in volleyball (1974), track and field (1974, 1975) and basketball (1974, 1976). Since leaving BSU, she has taught and coached at Sebeka High School, amassing over 300 wins in volleyball and guiding teams to Park Regional Conference Championships in volleyball (four), softball (three) and basketball (one).

She directs summer volleyball camps and clinics while remaining active with elementary programs in volleyball, basketball and softball. She was named to the BSU women’s athletics 30-year anniversary team in 2000.

PAT SARTELL lettered four times in volleyball and basketball from 1975-1978. Her basketball career included two selections to the All Minn-Kota Conference team and a conference championship in 1976. A team captain in volleyball, she was all-conference two times and played

on a squad that won four consecutive Minn-Kota Conference titles.

She also participated in the early years of BSU softball by playing on the club team. After graduation, she taught at Deer Creek where she coached three sports and was named Region 6A Volleyball Coach of the Year in 1983. She is now a special education teacher and was named to the BSU women’s athletics 30-year anniversary team in 2000.

DON SCHMECKPEPER lettered three times in football at BSU from 1946-50 and was a four-time letter winner in track, winning the conference high hurdle title in 1947. An industrial education major, he received both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Bemidji State.

Prior to retirement, he had a 34-year career in education, all but one at Bemidji High School where he was the track coach for 10 years. He remains active in community organizations and in supporting Bemidji State University programs.

DAVID SJOBLAD was the second leading all-time scorer on the BSU basketball team when he graduated in 1964. A four-time letterman, he was twice elected as team captain and was an all-conference selection. He retired in 1999 following a lengthy career in education, including 22 years at Pequot Lakes high School. He has been a wellness speaker for various organizations and received the Central Minnesota Counselor Association Award for Community Service. He continues to work as a consultant on a program called Maxing Out, working with coaches and athletes on chemical, health, wellness and attitude issues and promoting the idea of keeping sports in a healthy perspective.

director with Prior Lake Savage Area School District. She’d previously been employed as director of curriculum, instruction and assessment at Bemidji area schools. She also served as an elementary school principal at Lincoln Elementary in Bemidji from 1994-2000 and at Norman County West Elementary School in Hendrum from 1991-1994…

Christopher Parthun (’91) and his family recently donated a golden retriever puppy to the Hearing and Service Dogs Program, based in the Twin Cities.

Christopher’s wife, Tracy, involves her family in training the puppy as a service dog for people with disabilities including those who are deaf, paraplegic or subject to seizures. The Parthuns live in Bemidji with their children, Laura, Anna and Isaac… Jon Gaffaney (’99) has been selected to receive the Dr. Ya-Pin Lee Award as the outstanding graduate student in biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He is working toward a doctor of philosophy degree in the laboratory of Dr. Jon Gaffaney Roxanne Vaughan, associate professor of biochemistry and molecular biology. His research is an investigation of the mechanisms of a protein involved in cocaine addictions, and it’s believed that findings from his research may also have application for Parkinson’s disease. The Ya-Pin Lee Award recognizes an outstanding student for dedication, accomplishment

and zeal for research… Carrie (Collyard) Glinsek (’96) and James Glinsek (’96) were married April 27 at Elk River, where they currently reside. Carrie opened a chiropractic office in Elk River in September 2001… Jean Dolensek (’95) has been appointed to the Northspan Group’s board of directors. She is the mining program coordinator for the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Agency and previously served as a supervisor of general accounting for U.S. Steel Minntac. The Northspan Group is a Duluth-based private non-profit development organization that has, since 1985, provided professional business and community development services throughout Minnesota with a special emphasis on the Northeast Region… Brandon Fiedler (’99) announced his candidacy for the Chisholm City Council this fall. He currently works as an independent contractor delivering the Duluth News Tribune and the Manney’s Shopper. He’s an active member of St. Joseph’s Church, Chisholm, and the Knights of Columbus Council #3539… Leslie (Skarich) Peterson (’93) received a master’s degree in teaching and learning from Saint Mary’s University in May. She teaches first grade at Meadow Lake School in the Robbinsdale School District and lives in Andover with her husband, Charles, and son, Ryan…

Betty White (’90) of Wadena filed as a candidate for the post of Wadena County auditor/treasurer. She’s worked as the Wadena County Highway Department’s accountant for the last five years and moved to Wadena from Brainerd 27 years ago. She helped form the Wadena County Humane Society in 1996, is past president of the humane society’s board of directors and currently serves as a board member. She’s also been an active 4-H horse project leader for

20 years… Jon Olson (’90) was a candidate for the office of Aitkin County commissioner.

He’s been employed as a police officer with the city of Aitkin for the past 10 years. He and his wife, Rayette, have four children… Sarah Curtis-Greer (’96) of Fall City participated Jon Olson in the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade in August, a 60-mile, three-day walk in the state of Washington. She’s worked for the past seven years in juvenile corrections for the Wilder Foundation, St. Croix Camps near Sandstone as a counselor and supervisor Sarah Curtis-Greer of an adolescent male correctional facility and has spent time volunteering in villages in Central America – Antigua, Guatemala being the most recent. Proceeds from the three-day marathon went to support the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade’s mission to fund access to care and find a cure for breast cancer, with a focus on under-served women… David Bjorklund (’90) and his wife, Wendy McGillivray Bjorklund, of Park Rapids announce the August 23 birth of a

Where We Are ... What We’re Doing (Continued from page 3)

Machining Company, a family business with 26 employees at which he’s worked for the past 20 years.

He lives in Glenwood with his wife, Mary, and their (’87) is writing his tenth book, VB.NET Business Objects, which should be available in April of 2003. children, Jeremy, 16, Shelby, 13, and Colin, 4… Brett He and his wife, Teresa, live in Eden Prairie with their Larson (’88) is manager of NAPAAuto Parts in Virginia. He and his wife, Ann Marie, live in Gilbert children, Tim, 9, and Marcus, 5… Ken Boie (’89) lives in Belle Plaine and has three children, Gabriella, and have two children, Garrett, 8, and Hannah, 6. He coaches youth football, basketball and baseball…

12, Amber, 9, and Brian, 7… Kristi (Brademan) Janice Frenzel (’88) teaches special education in Pickett (’87) has been working for 15 years as a Kelliher, grades 8-12. She and her husband, Wesley, veterinary technician at Bemidji Veterinary Clinic. live in Northome and have four children and six She lives in Bemidji with her daughters, Jessica, 9, grandchildren… Patrick Hammann (’86) and Jane and Caitlin, 4, and is planning a May wedding…

(Dostal) Hammann (’84) live in Superior, WI, with Craig Stubbins (’81) and his wife, Jayne, live in their daughter, Kaleigh, 13. Patrick is a helicopter pilot Eden Prairie and have three children, Jesse, 17, for St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, and Jane teaches Callie, 8, and Joanna, 6… Ken Gagner (’86) is kindergarten in the Superior, WI, School District. teaching fifth grade at Morris Area Schools and is coaching junior football and serving as the head girls basketball coach. His wife, Jill, works at the USDA- 1990s Allison Kreibich (’98) has been elected to the ARS Soils Lab. They live in Morris and have three Bemidji School Board… Marilyn Foss (’90) is children, Jessica, 18, Heather, 11, and Grant, 10…

Lance Lokken (’89) and his wife, Debbie (Pierson) postmaster at Max and often substitute teaches at Squaw Lake Elementary. She’s an active member of Lokken, are the new owners of Iron Trail Laundry, Campground and Mobile Home Park in Chisholm, a Centennial Lutheran Church, Squaw Lake, and a volunteer with the American Cancer Society and the business previously known as JKO Campground.

Advocates for Family Peace in Itasca County… Amy The couple also owns Fairview Apartments, Hibbing, and Lance is employed at Hibbing Tac as a Boll (’99) has been hired as a full-time industrial tractor operator. They have three children, Jessie, 13, technology instructor at the Crookston High School… Tim Slough (’92) and his wife, Debbie, of Peter, 5, and Stacie, 3… Dan Hodgson (’81) has Bemidji announce the August 13 birth of a son… managed Econofoods in Wahpeton, ND, since the Diane Leaders (’99) has received her master’s store opened in 1986 and prior to that had taught degree in social work with honors from the freshman English at BSU. He also taught freshman University of Minnesota, Duluth. She is currently English at NDSCS and currently serves on the NDSCS Alumni/Foundation Board of Directors. He working at Ottertail-Wadena Community Action as a family services counselor… Nancy Allen (’90) was lives in Wahpeton and has two children… Brent recently hired as the curriculum and personnel Cochran (’81) recently became president of R/C

Horizons Page 7

Communiques from the alumni director Marla Huss Patrias

Track & Field Alumni Meet Scheduled Former BSU track & field team members, are you ready to tie on your running shoes and test your athletic skills? A BSU Alumni Track & Field meet will be held on Saturday January 18, 2003 at 3 p.m. in the Gillett Recreation-Fitness Center on campus. The meet will feature the green moldy oldies versus a team of freshmen and a team of upper class students. The green moldy oldie team will be given handicaps for the number of years that have elapsed since the last time they competed for the Beavers. They will also be given extra points for wearing old BSU uniforms, sweats and letterman jackets (even if they don’t fit). Following the meet, a supper (roast) will be held at 7 p.m. at Walnut Hall where many stories will be told, which hopefully won’t be stretched too far!

For more information, contact coach Craig Hougen at 218-755-2883 or via email at chougen@bemidjistate.edu.

Deadline for Alumni Relative Scholarship Applications Coming Up The deadline for BSU’s Alumni Relative Scholarship is coming up soon.

Applications for returning or transfer students are due Tuesday, December 31. Applications for incoming freshmen have been extended as of this year, and are now due Friday, January 31. Applications are available on-line at info.bemidjistate.edu/alumni/scholarship or by contacting the alumni office.

SEVENTH

A N N UA L

BSU Winter Rendezvous!

Be part of the BSU Winter Rendezvous 2003! All BSU alumni invited.

Plans are shaping up for the Alumni

In Memoriam Bradley B. Blooflat (’96) – Bagley, MN Michael Staples (’95) – Bemidji, MN Marion Edgar (’60) – Tahlequah, OK Leonard Bengston (’32) – Grand Rapids, MN Gordon L. Wright (’55) – Bemidji, MN Hazel Hogenson (retired faculty) – Parkers Prairie, MN Margarete Steininger (’65) – Northome, MN

Association’s Seventh Annual golf tournament and winter

Willa Beaulieu (’75) – Pinewood, MN

celebration to be held March 9 - 10 in Laughlin, Nevada.

Ruth Stenerson (retired faculty) – Bemidji, MN

For more information, or to be put on the registration mailing

Gregg Fokken (’87) – Oronoco, MN

list, contact the alumni office at 877-278-2586 (toll free),

Dick Hess (’50) – Verndale, MN

218-755-3989 (local) or via email at alumni@bemidjistate.edu.

First Ever Athletic Hall of Fame Weekend Described as a Success!

The first ever Athletic Hall of Fame celebration weekend was held October 18 and 19. By all accounts, the weekend of events were a success and enjoyed by the many alumni who returned to campus to participate.

A reception for all Hall of Fame members was held Friday evening at the David Park House, with almost 100 people in attendance, including 31 AHF members and the eight inductees. Following the reception, participants took in the women’s volleyball match and men’s hockey game taking place in the John Glas Fieldhouse. The inductees were introduced between the second and third matches of the volleyball game and all Hall of Fame members present were introduced between the second and third periods of the hockey game.

Beaver Pride again hosted a pre-football game tailgate party on Saturday morning, followed by introductions of the inductees at halftime of the football game. Football and hockey alums attended receptions following the football game, and culminating the weekend of events was the Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and banquet Saturday evening. A record 186 people were in attendance to celebrate with the eight inductees and honor the Hall of Fame members present.

Due to the overwhelming success, the weekend format for Athletic Hall of Fame will continue. The next celebration will be in 2004.

daughter… Michelle Young (’95) and her husband, Wade Young (’93), of Bemidji announce the August 22 birth of a son. Michelle is employed at Affinity Plus Credit Union while Wade works at Naylor Electric… Jess Ward (’96) and Dave Evenson (‘84), both of Bemidji, are planning a May wedding.

Jess is an agency specialist with State Farm Insurance and Dave is a physical education and health teacher at Ponemah Elementary School… Chuck Eggert (’99) is teaching fourth grade at Dassel Elementary. He was previously employed at Monticello and has two years of experience teaching second grade and one year teaching fourth grade. He and his wife, Danell, live in Foley… Vickie Erdmann (’96) is in her first year of teaching in the Win-E-Mac School District. She teaches Russian in grades 7-12 and English as a second language and also works with elementary students in a different classroom each day on language skills activities. Last year she taught in Northome… Meg Kolden (’95) is Vickie Erdmann teaching geometry, algebra II and applied math II at Stephen-Argyle Central. She’d previously taught for seven years at Fergus Falls Senior High. She and her husband, Jerod, have a daughter, Bailee, 4, and son, Matthew, 1… Daryl Kehler (’99) is teaching high school and

middle school social studies at the Waseca Area Learning Center. He’d previously taught in Bemidji and Blackduck… Kathy Birt (’98) is the new special education teacher at North Elementary, Deer River…

Kristen Busch (’97) is teaching science at TowerSoudan Schools. She’s a first-year teacher who now lives in Tower with her husband, Rick, who works at Tower Auto Parts… Patrick Holm (’94) is the new high school math teacher and head wrestling coach at Lake Park-Audubon Schools… Dawn Bergerson (’98) is coordinating the Early Childhood Family Education program at Menahga where she lives with her husband and four children. She had previously been a substitute teacher in the Menahga, Sebeka and Park Rapids school districts… Kristen Zupetz (’96) resigned this summer from her position as business manager for the Chisholm School District in order to accept a similar job with a Twin Cities school district.

She’d been employed in her position at Chisholm for three years… Angie McCarthy (’97) and her husband, Casey McCarthy (’97), of Bemidji announce the September 24 birth of a daughter. Angie is a registered nurse and Casey works in the Security Department at BSU… Shelley Steva (’98) is in her third year of teaching science to sixth- through eighthgraders at RLCC at Plummer. She lives in Thief River Falls and has two children, Erin, 17, and Lee, 14…

Kim Elhardt (’98) is in her fifth year of teaching kindergarten at Bigfork schools. She and her husband, Eric, live in Marcell, have a son, Ethan, 2, and are anticipating the birth of their second child in November… Melissa Marcotte (’92) her husband, Glen, and their daughter, Macey, 1, recently moved back to her hometown of International Falls after

Pictured are several hockey alums attending the Athletic Hall of Fame reception at the David Park House.

Sitting on the couch is AHF 2002 inductee Blane Comstock ’71, former men’s hockey coach Bob Peters and AHF 2002 inductee Mark Eagles ’77. Standing from left to right in the front row are: Steve Letourneau ‘76, Lynn Smith ‘74, Lyle Dunbar ‘73, Steve Curley ‘75, Bruce Falk ’71 and Dennis Kvarnlov-Leverty ’72. Pictured in the back row are Bob Nyberg ‘71, Jim McElmury ’71, Glen Chiodo ’75, and Bryan Grand ’70.

spending three years in Brainerd… Rebecca Lundgren (’91) of Grand Rapids received a master’s degree in special education from BSU in May… Bev Turk (’92) works as an image editor and photoshop specialist for the Grand Rapids Herald Review newspaper. She and her husband, Keith, live in Cohasset. Their daughter, Paula, 22, lives and works in Boston, MA… Ann (Johnson) McCann (’90) of Brighton, CO, has worked for the Ball Corporation for eight years as an executive accountant. She and her husband, Joseph, have a daughter, Samantha, 2…

Glenn Amundson (’91) of East Grand Forks has worked as a sales manager at Hansen Ford Lincoln Mercury in Grand Forks, ND, for the past seven years… John Hanson (’91), his wife, Linda, and their children, Brooke, 7, and Paige, 5, live in Houston, TX… Kristin (Mostad) Sundgaard (’91) and Anthony Sundgaard (’93) have two children, ages 3 years and newborn. Kristin is a physical therapist with HealthEast Home Care and Anthony works in law enforcement for the city of Eagan… Karen Wicklund (’94) of St. Petersburg, FL, recently started a new job with the Florida Department of Revenue and is engaged to Ken Kull… Kristy Toftum (’96) and Joshua Branson were married July 25 in Golden, CO… Tessa Braaten (’94) and Les Lauderbaugh were married September 7 at Leif Erickson Park in Duluth, overlooking Lake Superior. They live in Bemidji where Tessa is employed with the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Department and Les with SpeeDee Delivery… Debra Jelencich-Jensen (’92) is in her 10th year of teaching fourth grade. She and her husband, Floyd, live in Brainerd and have three children, Rosie, 15, Michelle, 12, and Kelsey, 2…

Lisa Pierce (’92) has worked as an accounts receivable bookkeeper for eight years, is the proud owner of 21 dogs and survived a serious automobile accident in June of 2001. She and her husband, Larry, live in Cotton and have a 17-year-old daughter, Danielle… Marie Chandler (’96) is teaching sixth grade at the Cass Lake-Bena Middle School and had previously taught at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley schools for five years. She lives in Bemidji with her husband, David, and has two children… Rick Berndt (’91) owns the Pet Zone in Bemidji. He and his wife, Patti, live in Bemidji and have three children, Derek, 19, Kari, 16, and Kris, 10… Don Anderson (’94) and Sheila (McCarty) Anderson (’93) live in Grand Rapids and have two children, Jacob and Julie. Don runs his own chiropractic practice, Itasca Chiropractic Center in Grand Rapids… Teresa LaFriniere (’98) was hired recently as a tax specialist with FarmChek Services of McIntosh. She’s worked in accounting and bookkeeping positions since 1994, most recently as a farm tax specialist with AgCountry Farm Credit Services of Detroit Lakes. She and her husband, Brian, live near Roy Lake in rural Mahnomen County… Cary Parks (’95) graduated in September from the FBI National Academy Program at the FBI Academy campus in Quantico, VA. Parks, who has worked 20 years with the Coon Rapids Police Department, was one of only three Minnesota graduates. He’s served as a detective sergeant for the past three years. He’s married and has two daughters, coaches girls soccer and lives in Coon Rapids…

Cindy (Haarstad) Darrow (’90) lives in Inver Grove Heights with her husband, Dan, and is currently employed at Macalaster College, St. Paul,

as the associate director for operations, campus center/ programs… Serene Bachman (’90) joined the Holy Redeemer School staff in Montgomery this fall. She serves as a part-time school counselor, sharing her time with two other schools, Lonsdale/New Market Veseli and St. Wenceslaus in New Prague. She’d previously taught for a year at Waterville-ElysianMorristown and for one year in Mankato. She lives in Montgomery with her husband, Larry, and their two children, Austin, 10, and Ali, 8… John Gronski (’91) and his wife, Anne, live in Superior, WI, with their children, Gunnar, 3, and Jarrett, 1… Bob Brauer (’92) has been promoted to vice-president of marketing with Brauer Supply Co. and also serves as a corporate pilot with the company. He and his wife, Melanie, live in Springfield, IL, with their children, Travis, 7, Alexis, 4, and Britta, 1… Melissa (Baker) Warren (’91) is a senior analyst and supervisor with State Farm Insurance and her husband, Michael, works for Illinois Senator Bill Brady. They live in Bloomington, IL, with their children, Samantha, 5, and Jake, 2.

2000s Kathleen Furlong (’01) has been hired as an art director by Out There Advertising, a marketing and advertising agency in Duluth… Bruce Manske (’00) filed as a candidate in November’s Bemidji School Board election… Michele Dinius (’00) is the new head coach of the Rush City High School varsity volleyball squad. She will also substitute teach until a full-time physical education teaching position opens in Rush City. She’d previously coached at Monticello High School and is engaged to Paul Kirby, a sixthgrade teacher at Rush City… Leslie Johnson (’01) (Continued on page 6)

Horizons Page 8

F I F T H

Answer The Call

A N N U A L

BEAVER PRIDE Slim’s

WINTER GOLF CLASSIC SATURDAY JANUARY 18, 2003 Slim’s Bar and Grill and Beaver Pride have announced the annual winter golf tournament will be played on Saturday, January 18, 2003, on the frozen links of Lake Bemidji. Teams of two golfers will use a putter and an iron to negotiate the 18-hole course with a tennis ball. The format is a two-person scramble and is limited to the first 144 registrants.

Call 218-755-2827 for more information.

“Working at the Calling Center is a lot of fun.

The people you talk to are so much fun. To hear their experiences at BSU makes it exciting to be here. You meet so many people and they are great to talk with. It’s just a great thing.”

Laura Manley, Class of 2006 Laura is a freshman majoring in liberal education. This is her first year working with the BSU Alumni Phonathon.

“I like to talk to the interesting alumni of BSU. I also like to raise money for such a great thing as Bemidji State University.”

Patrick Crosby, Class of 2004 Patrick is a junior majoring in industrial technology.

This is his first year working with the BSU Alumni Phonathon.

Answer the call

Alumni Trip to China in Summer 2003 Love to travel? Always wanted to see China and the Great Wall? Did you participate in Sinosummer as a student at BSU and have dreamed of going back?

The Alumni Association will give those who answered yes an opportunity to visit China through a guided trip to China from July 23 through August 6, 2003.

The program will be led by professor emeritus Pete Smith, and is designed as somewhat of a shorter version of the Sinosummer program; however, it will include a few new twists for Sinosummer veterans.

The itinerary includes two days in Beijing; five days at Liaoning University for field trips to North East China; two days in Xian; and a four-day, three-night cruise aboard a four-star Princess Cruise ship on the Chang Jiang through the Three Gorges.

This Three Gorges cruise will be one of the last chances to see the area since this section of the river will be dammed and flooded in a few years as part of an enormous hydroelectric project.

The cost for the trip is $3300, which includes roundtrip airfare from Minnesota, as well as all other transportation, hotel and meal costs. Prices for the trip may vary slightly depending on participation.

All alumni, family and friends are welcome to participate. Interested individuals must submit a deposit of $150 to the Alumni Association no later than February 15, 2003. If the trip were canceled for any reason, this deposit would be refunded.

A minimum of ten participants is necessary for the trip to take place. Questions and expressions of interest can be forwarded to the Alumni Office at 218-755-2876 (local), 1-877-278-2586 (toll free), or alumni@bemidjistate.edu.

Laura and Patrick are among 30 BSU students calling throughout each academic year as members of the university advancement calling team. These students call alumni in an effort to update records, keep them connected to campus, and possibly garner financial support. During 2001-02, the BSU Alumni Phonathon had the most successful year in its calling history, thanks to generous alumni. This support provides funding for scholarships, faculty and student research projects, university-wide program enhancements and special projects, student recruitment activities, and athletic programs to name just a few areas.

Why do alumni give through the BSU Phonathon? Aside from helping the University, it is a way to invest in BSU and stay connected. Perhaps the best reason to give through this program is to show belief in Bemidji State University. Alumni receiving a call this year from one of our enthusiastic Phonathon callers are encouraged to take a few minutes to talk with them. Ask about campus life and let them know what it was like in the good old days. Thanks to all alumni in advance for getting involved and . . . answering the call.

For alumni who missed the call and would still like to give to the University Fund, please fill out and return the form below.

Bemidji State University Foundation BSU Alumni Phonathon 2002-2003 $_____ Payment enclosed. Checks should be made payable to: BSU Foundation Please bill: _____Monthly _____Quarterly _____Semi-Annually _____Annually _____Bill me during the month of __________ _____ VISA _____ Mastercard Account number ____________________________________ Expiration Date __________ Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________ Telephone ______________________________________________ Signature ________________________________________ Date __________________________________________________

Bemidji State University Foundation, 1500 Birchmont Drive NE #17, Bemidji, MN 56601-2699 (218) 755-2762 / Fax (218) 755-4146

Where We Are ... What We’re Doing (Continued from page 3) and her husband, Sam, of Bemidji announce the August 27 birth of a son… Jennifer Scheela (’00) and Edward Belisle (’01) were married May 18 in Bemidji. Jennifer recently completed coursework for a master’s degree in sport management at BSU. Edward has accepted a coaching position with the Sioux Falls Stampede of the U.S. Hockey League…

Dan Sabin (’00) married Heather Jorgensen (‘01) August 24 in Bemidji. Dan is employed with Bankers Systems and Heather is a Target Corp. employee. They live in St. Cloud… David Olson (’01) has been hired to teach physical education at the Isanti Middle School and the Minnesota Center.

He student taught in the Bagley Public Schools and was a long-term substitute there. He also filled a long-term substitute position with Cambridge Middle School in the spring of 2002… Michael Svir (’02) of Badger is in his first year of teaching social studies and science to fifth-through eighth-grade students and math to seventh- and eighth-graders at Balaton Public School… Jason Warner (’01) is teaching math and applied geometry at HinckleyFinlayson High School this year… Kami Roensch (’00) is teaching kindergarten at Milaca Public Schools. She’d previously worked as a substitute teacher in Walker and an EBD teacher in Biwabik…

Scott Wherley (’01) of Hines married Trisha Linder May 4. He is employed as a deputy sheriff for Beltrami County and had previously worked as a conservation officer in Nebraska… Amy Techar (’02) of Finlayson is entering her first year of teaching as a fourth-grade teacher at Willow River…

Pennie Rude (’02) is teaching high school U.S. citizenship, ancient civilizations/archeology, economics and American history to eighth-graders at Waterville-Elysian-Morristown Schools… Eric Austin (’02) is a new middle school social studies teacher at Becker Public Schools this year… Evan Lembke (’01) is the new industrial technology teacher at Moose Lake High School. He’d previously taught in the Wrenshall District and lives in Wrenshall with his wife and baby daughter… Ryan Giles (’02) took a teaching position this year at the Lac qui Parle Valley High School. He teaches industrial arts including drafting, construction and woodworking… Jessica Bina (’02) of East Grand Forks is in her first year of teaching at New Heights Elementary there. She’s spent two years with AmeriCorps in Bemidji working with Youth Quake and devoting 2,600 volunteer hours in after-school and reading programs. She also taught pre-school, kindergarten and fourth grade in Bemidji… Calvin Gunn (’02) is teaching sixth grade at Nevis. He’d served as a long-term substitute for sixth grade last year and also substituted for Title I in the spring of 2001. He and his wife, Shana (‘00), have been married four years and have a nine-month old son, Michael… Amory Olson (’01) is in her first year of teaching at Southwest Star Concept High School, Heron Lake. She’s teaching 10th-grade biology, seventh-grade life science and eighth-grade earth science… Kristy Finck (’01) was recently hired as

the newest addition to the Bertha-Hewitt teaching staff as a kindergarten teacher and volleyball and track coach. Her husband, Dale (‘91), is also a teacher at Bertha-Hewitt… Aaron Johnson (’02) is in his first year of teaching social studies at TriCounty Schools, Karlstad… Michael Enerson (’01) of Dassel is teaching seventh-and eighth-grade social studies at Dassel schools. He was previously employed summers with Beltrami Electric Cooperative in Bemidji and had worked for Alaska Interstate Construction in Prudhoe Bay… Eric Olson (’02) was recently hired as community facilitator for Polk County Public Health, a position dedicated to preventing the use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs by minors. He’s single and lives in Fisher… Coral Swanlund (’02) is living in Burnsville… Stacey Steinkopf (’02) of Bemidji has started graduate studies and is a teaching graduate assistant in the English Department at BSU… Andy Jadoo (’02) is living in St. Paul… Jessica Creech (’02) lives in Bemidji… Jacquelyn Chiabotti (’02) and her husband, Michael, live in Andover with their children, Dominic, 5, and Dylan, 3… Kajsa Freborg (’02) has accepted a teaching position at the Bemidji Middle School… Ryan Binder (’02) lives in Shevlin… Rob Litchke (’02) of St. Paul is employed as a staff auditor with the Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor… Michelle Collopy (’02) works as a SWS/ALC teacher in District 199. She lives in Inver Grove Heights with her husband, Gary, and their children, Erin, 15, and

Michael 10… Kerry Lakso (’02) has a new job at Mesabi Range Community and Technical College as an academic advisor. She lives in Cook with her husband, Bob, and their children, Mandy, 12, and Kanika, 3… Angie (Lease) Kellin (’02) teaches middle school and high school English. She and her husband, Tony, live in Grand Rapids… Jennifer Schepers (’02) lives in South St. Paul… Crystal Banovetz (’02) is substitute teaching in the Ely schools. Her son, Joshua, is four… Amanda Ogden (’02) works as a quality control chemist at Solvay Pharmaceuticals in Baudette. She and her husband, Roben, live in Emo, Ontario, Canada, with their nine-year-old, Jordan… Bethany Gustafson (’02) lives in Mankato and has begun work on a master’s degree in teaching English as a second language… Derrick Gross (’02) is teaching fourth grade at Northome. He also completed eight years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked for a time at the Itasca Juvenile Center… Sherri Kruger (’01) is a new addition to the Badger faculty this year and Sherri Kruger

lives in Roseau with her husband, David, and children, Elysia, 17, Sarah, 12, and John, 10…Karen Andrascik (’02) and her family recently moved from International Falls to Eatonville, WA. She is working toward her state teaching certification and plans to work as a substitute teacher. She and her husband, Roger, have two children, Sean, 13, and Hannah, 9… Jen Brekkestran (’02) lives in Brooklyn Center and works as a residential supervisor for a company called ACR… Lauri (Nevalainen) Solberg (’02) teaches math at Lakeville High School. She lives in St. Paul with her husband, Chuck… Brad Czech (’01) has joined the Long Prairie Elementary School staff as a first grade teacher. His fiancé, Elizabeth Santo, is a teacher at Mary of Lourdes Elementary School in Little Falls… Zach Howard (’02) is in his first year of teaching high school science and biology classes in Belgrade district schools… Cory Gish (’02) is teaching third grade at Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School. He lives in Bemidji with his wife, Amy… Tina Vaughn (’01) is teaching third grade at Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School… Scot Blumenshein (’01) is working as an EBD teacher with the Cass LakeBena School District. He’s previously worked as a journalist for six years… Amy Klimek (’00) teaches fourth grade at Cass Lake-Bena Elementary School. She lives on Midge Lake with her husband, Shawn (‘99).