Leader|july 23|2008

W E D N E S D AY, J U LY 2 3 , 2 0 0 8 • V O L U M E 7 5 • N O . 4 8 • 2 S E C T I O N S • 8 , 0 0 0 C O P I E S • S E C T I O N A

WE EKEN D WA TCH : • Polk County Fair @ St. Croix Falls • Rendezvous @ Webster • Fly-in or drive-in @ Siren (airport) • Gem and Mineral Show @ Frederic • Pottery Tour @ Danbury See Coming events and stories

Leader INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

$1

Huggett case one for jury to decide Was the shooting of John Peach justified? Judge allows case to proceed to trial PAGE 5

Rollover at quarry fatal

Marilyn v is it s Wannigan Days

Five in Geo Metro; one killed, one airlifted PAGE 3

Camp death under investigation

Woman dies at camp that made headlines recently PAGE 3

Services for “Lute” Pettis this Friday

Made mark on area with Osceola Braves baseball team PAGE 2

Wannigan Days at St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls brought back the days of the 1950s in honor of the celebration’s 50th anniversary, including an appearance by the glamorous Marilyn Monroe (above), who waved to parade-goers, Saturday evening. Marilyn was played by Shelley Staeven, the new director of the St. Croix Falls Chamber of Commerce. She was chauffeured by Dr. Steve Bont, pulling a float that included an Elvis impersonator, who performed at a sock hop that evening. More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Gary King

FA IR TIM E! Fair information Page 13

SPO RT S

Local Olympians, past and present See SPORTS front page

T a k in g no te s o n t he D a l a i L a m a

N e w Mi s s S CF a ll s

Young Grantsburg reporter has her questions ready for spiritual leader

by Sherill Summer GRANTSBURG - The Dalai Lama is making a stop in Madison on his current U.S. tour.

It hasn’t been a big story locally, but that’s not stopping a couple of reporters from this area from making the trip to the capital city to cover the event.

Advanced preparation was needed to get formal press credentials and one of the reporters, Isabelle Maslow of Grantsburg, even has a list of four questions she is hoping to ask the Tibetan spiritual leader.

Because she is 8 years old and quite possibly will be the youngest reporter, with full press credentials, she might very well get noticed and have a chance to get some answers to her questions.

Wayne Anderson is the other

See Dalai Lama, page 3

Isabelle Maslow hopes to ask questions of the Dalai Lama (below) at Madison, Thursday. Special photos Ashley Kolve, daughter of Larry Kolve, was crowned Miss St. Croix Falls 2008 and Miss Congeniality at the Wannigan Days queen pageant Friday, July 18. More photos of Wannigan Days in the Currents Section. – Photo by Tammi Milberg

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

Leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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

MANAGER Doug Panek dougpanek@centurytel.net EDITOR Gary B. King, Editor gbking@centurytel.net STAFF Nancy Jappe njappe@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Brenda Sommerfeld brendals@centurytel.net Sherill Summer the-leader@centurytel.net Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Carl Heidel cheidel389@centurytel.net Priscilla Bauer the-leader@centurytel.net EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net

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Memorial service Friday for “Lute” Pettis

Helped build Osceola Braves baseball team

NORTHWEST WISCONSIN A memorial service for Luther “Lute” Pettis will be held this Friday at 11 am. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Osceola.

Pettis died Friday, July 18, at the age of 93.

Most well-known to residents from Hertel to Osceola - towns where he resided most of his life - Pettis made his biggest mark on northwestern Wisconsin with his formation of the Osceola Braves, a town baseball team that he played for, managed and nurtured as a supporter for most of his life.

His association with the team began when he and his wife, Mayme noticed a For Sale sign on a blacksmith shop in Osceola while visiting her parents. They bought the shop, settled in to the community of then 600, and one day a group of young men, short one player on their baseball team, asked Lute if he’d like to play.

They won that game but to continue playing, they needed a manager.

“Since I was the oldest, I was elected to the job,” Lute said in telling the story through the years. During his tenure a new baseball field was built, and the team saw new dugouts, a new grand-

Lute Pettis and his wife of 73 years, Mayme. - special photo stand, uniforms, exhibition games with various semipro teams and new equipment. Pettis hosted a radio program broadcast each Saturday over a station in Stillwater, Minn. The show was called “Hello from Osceola,” and gave Pettis a chance to oast of his home town - and he did just that. Two years after taking the manager’s job, the team won their first championship.

Pettis often told how he would make bats for the team, turning them out on the lathe in his shop.

One of his procurements for the team in 1949 was a young pitcher named Bud Grant. Pettis lured Grant away from the Wheeler team - thus starting a friendship that lasted until Pettis’ death.

Grant played four years for the Braves

F i r e w o r k s o ve r t h e S t . C r o i x

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before turning to pro football and legend status, with a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his achievements as coach of the Minnesota Vikings. Grant’s autobiography mentions his friendship with Pettis.

Pettis said he was proud to be Grant’s friend and said he was humbled when Grant asked him to ride on a family bus to Canton, Ohio, to be part of Grant’s big day - his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Pettis was one of the last old-time cowboys, having worked in South Dakota as a young man, “riding the rails” to a ranch every spring for roundup work and returning home the same way following the fall roundup.

“He earned a living in his father’s stead, with boots and cowboy hat still in a closet somewhere,” the obituary written by family members, read.

Pettis and his wife of 73 years, Mayme, who survives him, raised seven children.

“Those hands were never out of work,” Mayme said many times of her husband.

An obituary appears elsewhere in this issue. - Gary King with information from Pettis family

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FREDERIC - A peacock has been wondering the village streets of Frederic, and some area residents are worried that it won’t be reunited with its owner before winter sets in.

“I hear it every night,” said Craig Swanson, who owns the trailer court on Ash Street. He said the bird has been wondering the village - from First to Third streets and is missing some feathers.

Swanson said he just wanted to get the word out so that the owner might read ths story and know where the bird ended up.

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The Inter-County Leader is a qualified newspaper for the publication of legal notices, meeting the requirements as set forth in Chapter 985.03 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Every government official or board that handles public money should publish at regular intervals an accounting of it, showing where and how each dollar is spent. We hold this to be a fundamental principle of democratic government. Publisher reserves right to reject any advertisement or news release or letter of opinion at any time.

The Wannigan Days fireworks were captured from across the St. Croix River by area photographer Erik Barstow. - Special photo

This week’s E-Extra includes photos not published in the print edition, including shots of the Wannigan Days, Lucky Days and Grantsburg Watercross celebrations. Readers can subscribe to the Leader E-edition, which offers the entire paper - and sometimes extra pages - through an virtural online experience - by going to www.the-leader.net.

The Leader is also giving away a threemonth subscription to the e-edition each week. Persons can enter the drawing by e-mailing the-leader@centurytel.net with the subject line E-edition Drawing.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Briefly FREDERIC - The price of regular unleaded gas was $3.87/gallon as the Leader went to press this Wednesday, down from the $4-plus earlier this month.

Will it continue to drop? Economists and speculators differ on that issue.

••• MINNEAPOLIS - Well over 100 people gathered last Saturday, July 19, at the Minneapolis Theatre Garage to wish Keith Kennedy well. The family of the man, who was found alive after seven days in the Burnett County wilderness, sponsored the party along with Twin Cities businesses - to thank volunteers who helped in the search for their son.

Another special day is set for Aug. 2 at the Crex Convention Center in Grantsburg.

“It will be a lively open house with a DJ, snack foods and beverages,” said organizer Cindi Throngard. Members of Keith Kennedy’s family will be there from 4-8 p.m. This will be their chance to meet and thank those who gave their time during the week to help hunt for Kennedy.

Kennedy is recovering well, according to his parents. - with submitted information ••• FREDERIC - Reportedly, people enjoyed the article in the July 1 issue of the Leader regarding the late Clifford Young, who brought aviation to Frederic in the 1930s and flew his own plane from a grass strip behind his house near Frederic from the 1950s to the 1980s. A quarter-scale model of his plane is now hanging in the Frederic Museum and Depot and people are invited to view it during the museum’s open hours, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday.

Young's airplane with information that museum is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday. - submitted ••• ST. CROIX FALLS - Don Dean, who served 17 years as a teacher, principal and superintendent at St. Croix Falls Schools, died June 23 in Naples, Fla., from kidney disease. His wife of 57 years, two children, six grandchildren and one greatgrandchild survive him. - with submitted information

Dalai Lama/from page 1 reporter from the area that will be traveling with Maslow. Anderson is no stranger to traveling long distances to get a story, having previously traveled to Iraq as a news correspondent.

This will not be the first time the pair of reporters have teamed up to cover events.

Mother Jackie Maslow explains that her daughter often handles the photography end of things when the two are reporting, and that she really enjoys it.

Anderson adds that Isabelle loves to travel; loves to meet new people, and knows how to get in close for a good photo, summing it up by explaining that his young partner has great instincts for reporting.

The two will be at the Alliant Energy Center Coliseum on Thursday, July 24, where the Dalai Lama will make his final Madison appearance of this trip. A Tenshug, a longlife ceremony, is scheduled during the morning, and a public celebration and a public address by His Holiness is scheduled for the afternoon.

Anderson also believes there is a press conference scheduled.

Anderson says he is not sure how long they will be at the Alliant Energy Center.

They might also try and visit the Deer Park Buddhist Center that is co-sponsoring the Dalai Lama’s visit to Madison.

Whatever the final itinerary, the trip is a chance for a budding reporter to see an international figure up close, with official press credentials, and she might get a chance to ask her questions too.

What sorts of questions might a young reporter ask? They are the following: “What is your favorite ice cream?” “Have you always lived in Tibet?”and “What other countries has you been to?”

And finally, “Why do you shave your head?”

General Petraeus thanks Frederic woman

A 21-year-old Dresser man lost his life Sunday evening when this Geo Metro, with five occupants, rolled over. A second occupant was airlifted to a Twin Cities hospital. - Photo from Polk County Sheriff’s Dept.

Rollover in rock quarry fatal Five in Geo Metro were not wearing seat belts

POLK COUNTY - A 21-year-old Dresser man lost his life Sunday evening, July 20, in an incident involving the “aggressive and purposely erratic driving” of a Geo Metro at the Dresser Trap Rock Quarry.

Christopher Cotteleer was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS personnel, according to a press release from the Polk County Sheriff’s office.

Kyle Hawkins, 21, St. Croix Falls, was airlifted to Regions Hospital for a severed ear and head injuries. Ryan Kennedy, 21, Osceola, was transferred to Osceola Medical Center for head and collarbone injuries.

other Two passengers in the vehicle, Ivan Bowen, 21, son of quarry owner Ivan Bowen, and Jonathan Jasperson, 22, both of Dresser, were uninjured.

Chris Cotteleer The vehicle rolled twice, ejecting Cotteleer, according to Sheriff Tim Moore, who said none of the five occupants of the Metro appeared to be wearing seat belts. It is not known at this time, Moore said, whether alcohol was involved in the accident.

Life Link III landed in the quarry to transport Hawkins.

The accident occurred at around 8 p.m. – Gary King with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department

Camp death is under investigation TOWN OF ANDERSON – “This is a precautionary public-safety issue,” commented Burnett County Sheriff Dean Roland when he was contacted regarding the death of a camper at Trade Lake Camp near Grantsburg.

This is the camp an autistic man from the Twin Cities, Keith Kennedy, was attending when he disappeared recently. After a massive weeklong search, Kennedy was found barely alive, about a mile from the camp.

Shirley Meade, 50, Cottage Grove, Minn., was found in a chair in the camp dining room at approximately 12:30 a.m. Friday, July 18. The sheriff said she had been placed there by camp staff and that the staff had been watching out for her medical condition. However, no one at the camp had contacted medical professionals.

“Because of Keith Kennedy, is this just a black cloud hanging over the camp?” the sheriff said. “We are look-

Hwy. 8 detour The closure of Hwy. 8 due to construction south of Taylors Falls will require motorists on Hwy. 8 to follow the posted detour: • Hwy. 95 to Hwy. 243; • Hwy. 243 (Osceola Bridge) to Hwy. 35; • Hwy. 35 to St. Croix Falls; • Hwy. 8 to Hwy. 95 in Taylors Falls, Minn.

The detour will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 11, and is anticipated to be completed by late August. The detour is necessary to install drainage structures and stabilize retaining walls along Hwy. 8. - from Minnesota DOT

ing to see what is going on.” The sheriff’s understanding is that nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary, but an investigation is ongoing until they know for sure what happened. “We don’t want to alarm people or notify potential witnesses. This could be nothing more than a natural death, but we are covering all the bases,” he said. Burnett County Medical Examiner Mike Maloney said, Wednesday morning, July 23, that the autopsy on Meade has been completed. She had a little bit of pneumonia, causing no real problem there. “We are looking for something in the toxicology report, which will not be available for another two weeks,” Maloney said.

The state license for Trade Lake Camp has been suspended, temporarily closing the camp until the investigation has been completed. – Nancy Jappe

FREDERIC - General David Petraeus recently sent a letter to Susan Hager of Frederic, thanking her for work with the project she began out of her own home, called the Cookie Brigade.

Hager organized volunteers to make cookies and dog biscuits for troops in Iraq.

“The homemade treats are a great morale booster for our men and women stationed in Iraq and also the canine members of our force,” Petraeus wrote.

“Thank you for your support of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who are diligently working to bring peace and prosperity to Iraq. Best wishes from Baghdad.”

Hager said she was “stunned” to receive the letter but very grateful and happy. “I would not have received this type of recognition if it were not for the continued commitment and support of many people in our community who are baking for the Cookie Brigade monthly.” Hager credited Dairyland Homemakers Association, Dairyland; Marilyn Harle, Webster; Sena Christopherson, Grantsburg; Nina Dewing, Grantsburg; Lisa Johnson and Restorative Justice volunteers, Siren.

Persons interested in baking cookies for the Cookie Brigade should call Hager at 327-4532. The cookies are baked and collected the last week of each month.

A copy of the letter can be found in this week’s Leader E-edition. – Gary King

Grantsburg man arrested after stealing two vehicles POLK and BURNETT COUNTIES – In the early morning of Thursday, July 10, a van owned by Peter and Heidi J o h n s o n , Grantsburg, was stolen from a Crosstown-Road residence. The keys were in the cup holder at the time it was stolen.

Another vehicle was parked near the Perry stolen van with the keys in the ignition.

Both vehicles were parked near an unlocked garage that was not entered.

The stolen van was recovered after it was rolled at 175th Street in Polk County, causing severe damage. The owners of the van were notified by Polk County Sheriff’s Department.

They were unaware that it had been taken.

A nearby vehicle was then taken from 350th Avenue, also in Polk County. This vehicle was recovered in Frederic.

A Polk County Sheriff’s Department investigated the stolen vehicles and traced them to Jesse B. Perry, 26, Grantsburg. He was arrested on a Burnett County probation violation on Thursday, July 17.

He admitted to stealing the vehicles the following day. Perry described alcohol as playing a factor. – Sherill Summer with information from sheriff’s departments of Burnett and Polk counties

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Mathy Construction applies for reclamation permit Rock and sand to be mined from 187-acre site

by Gregg Westigard LAKETOWN – Details on the planned quarry on the top of Iver’s Mountain are contained in the reclamation permit application filed by Mathy Construction with the Polk County Land and Water Resources Department.

Any new nonmetallic mine in the county must get a permit, before it opens, that sets out conditions for the reclamation of the mine site once the mine is closed.

The Laketown quarry will be owned and operated by Onalaska-based Mathy Construction through its Milestone Materials division. Mathy is also the parent company of Monarch Paving, a firm that contracts for many local street and road projects. A spokesperson for Mathy said the company will be holding a press conference soon to provide more information on the project.

The mine site will cover 187 acres bordering on Mountain Drive (290th Avenue) in Laketown. The site includes most of the property east and south of Mountain Drive in section 12 of Laketown. It includes a large farm field across the road from 1837 290th Avenue, another field and pasture to the west, and the woodland along the road connecting the fields. A large hill of sand just north of the Trade River off CTH B is also part of the mine site. The land once belonged to Rollin and Steve Asper.

Mathy will mine for basalt, sometimes called traprock, and for sand. The company estimates that the deposit goes to a depth of at least 230 feet and likely much deeper. Mining will occur intermittently throughout the year depending on market conditions. The plan states that efforts will be made to minimize the number of acres disturbed at any one time.

The company will retain a 100-foot

Who was Iver?

LAKETOWN - Iver’s Mountain and Iver’s Mountain Drive were named after Iver Jorgenson, a farmer who lived just west of the new quarry on CTH B. Jorgenson was the Laketown

chairman for 24 years, serving from 1967 to 1993 with a one-term break. He was succeeded by present town chair Terry Mattson. - Gregg Westigard

setback between Mountain Road and the mined site. Some of that setback area is now forested.

When mining is completed, on the area where sand was removed the topsoil that was removed and stored will be replaced so that the walls of the pit will be sloped. The land will be planted with grasses and reclaimed to passive recreation and agriculture use.

The basalt mining areas may have rock faces that can not be sloped. Some of those areas will remain as high walls.

While not part of the reclamation plan, it is reported that the rock and sand will be trucked west on Mountain Drive to 200th Street and then south to CTH B. Mathy is said to have told the town it will pave the gravel road from the site to 200th.

More on Iver’s Mountain quarry Four towns in county not zoned

by Gregg Westigard POLK COUNTY – “Zoning offers property rights protection, not an infringement on rights,” Sara McCurdy, Polk County Land Information director told the Leader. “With zoning, local residents can set some conditions on how property is used.”

The issue of zoning and land use has come up in connection with the development of a quarry on a ridge in Laketown, a town with no zoning.

Residents in the town discovered that they had no role in the permitting of the 187-acre site. With zoning, a town can set conditions on land use.

The 24 towns in Polk County have options on setting zoning regulations.

(The villages and cities control their own zoning). They can become part of the county zoning plan, a route chosen by 17 of the towns. Polk County adopted a zoning plan in the 1970s and offered each town the option of opting in or out. Three towns, Garfield, St. Croix Falls and Farmington, have written their own zoning ordinance. And four towns have chosen to not have zoning. The four unzoned towns are Sterling, Balsam Lake, Bone Lake, and Laketown.

The unzoned towns can chose to join the county zoning plan. The towns could create and administer their own zoning code. Or they could continue to be un-zoned. People at the county land use office say they are receiving many queries from residents and town officers from the four towns asking about their options.

Highway commissioner tells West Sweden that CTH W will not be gravel TOWN OF WEST SWEDEN – Polk County Highway Commissioner Steve Warndahl told the West Sweden Town Board, at its July meeting, that CTH W will not become a gravel road.

Warndahl said discussions with staff and the highway committee when looking at the department’s five-year plan, had included the idea of returning some low-traffic county roads to gravel instead of repairing them.

In following discussions and reconsideration of anticipated revenues, it was decided that gravel county roads would not be considered at this time.

The poor condition of CTH W, northwest of Frederic to the county line, has been brought to the attention of past highway committees, but with repair and reconstruction revenues shrinking, and construction costs rising, priority has always shifted to other roads in the county.

The previous highway commissioner had completed a reconstruction plan for W – seven miles from Frederic to the county line. That plan was for extensive rebuilding of low areas, reconfiguration of curves that would have required acquisition of right of way, plus improving drainage and sightlines. This project if refigured for today’s costs would be in the $10 to $14 million range. The project plans of several years ago cost $400,000. Polk County was responsible for 20 percent of the cost, or $80,000. If the highway committee at the time would have followed through in applying for construction funding, the project would have started in 2005.

This level of reconstruction would conform to specifications referred to as 3R. The paved surface would be 24 feet wide, with 3-foot gravel shoulders, and a 3 to 1 ditch slope 10 feet out from the fog line. The 80/20 percent cost sharing requires conformity to these specifications.

Board members Scott Wilder and Glen Meier wondered what would happen if the county were to reapply for the major reconstruction project cost sharing and receive it. Warndahl said that if a project of that size were awarded, it would be many years before Polk County would be considered for anoth-

The poor condition of CTH W, northwest of Frederic to the county line, has been brought to the attention of past highway committees, but with repair and reconstruction revenues shrinking, and construction costs rising, priority has always shifted to other roads in the county.— Photo by Gary King er cost-shared project. This would make it highly unlikely the highway committee would consider this approach.

Another possibility was that the county would spend a smaller amount of money to repair CTH W to a reasonable condition/and turn it over to the town.

West Sweden would then be responsible for all maintenance and repair costs.

The town would then receive an annual per-mile payment for upkeep. If CTH W were to be repaired before the transfer of jurisdiction took place, the town may only have to cover the cost of plowing for several years, and build up a maintenance fund with the annual permile revenue for future repair and maintenance. Actual per mile payment amounts have not been determined, and the town board will have to use those figures in making the decision to take over CTH W. Board members asked if having CTH W designated as a Rustic Road, which was suggested in past discussions, would have any effect. Warndahl explained that it would have a 45-mph speed limit, the trees would be allowed to canopy overhead, and it would be listed in the Rustic Road tourist publication, but little else would change. A rustic road designation would not effect a repair time line or make additional

funding available.

West Sweden Treasurer Phyllis Wilder asked Warndahl if there were any county roads in Polk County that were in worse shape than W. Warndahl’s reply was “No.” An audience member reminded the board that if a gas tax holiday were enacted, as proposed by some political candidates, that would mean even less money being available to repair roads and bridges.

Board Chairman Dennis O’Donnell mentioned that the Frederic Fire Department, of which he is a member, and the local ambulance service are aware of the poor condition of CTH W and try to use other routes if possible.

Warndahl said the highway committee had seen CTH W during its annual road inspection tour, and was aware of the condition. It was suggested that the committee attend a future town board meeting and possibly drive on CTH W again.

Direction was taken by the board to send a letter to the highway committee with support from the fire department and ambulance service, concerning the need to repair CTH W. Polk County Highway Committee members are: Marvin Caspersen, Herschel Brown, Jay Luke, Art

Gamache and Dean Johansen. The portion of the town of West Sweden that includes this section of CTH W is represented by Joan Peterson, but she is not a member of the highway committee, and would not normally attend their meetings.

CTH W, northwest of Frederic, has an average daily traffic count of 450 vehicles. The portion in Frederic has an average daily traffic county of 770. In comparison, CTH I, which was just resurfaced from Hwy. 48 north to CTH W, east of Frederic, has an average daily traffic county of 940. CTH O, north of CTH W to I, has an average daily traffic county of 110, and was resurfaced several years ago.

One of the funding sources for the highway department is the county tax levy. In 2009, Polk County will face a state- imposed 2 percent allowable increase from the amount levied in 2008.

With all of the increasing operational costs facing Polk County it is unlikely there will be much money for road repair in 2009. The county is beginning to work on the 2009 budget that will be approved at the November meeting.

The next West Sweden Town Board meeting will be Tuesday, Aug. 19, 6:30 p.m. at the town hall, and it is expected that the repair of CTH W will be discussed. — submitted

Bridge inspection and maintenance planned in Osceola OSCEOLA - On Tuesday, July 22, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation will be conducting a routine inspection of the bridge on Hwy. 243 over the St. Croix River in Osceola. In addition to the inspection, some routine maintenance of the bridge is planned. Traffic on the bridge will be reduced to one lane from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. – from Wisconsin DOT

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

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Huggett case one for jury to decide

Was the shooting of John Peach justified or not? Judge allows case to proceed to trial

by Sherill Summer BURNETT COUNTY - Before Kyle Huggett officially pleaded not guilty to second-degree intentional homicide at the end of his court appearance last Wed., July 16, Huggett’s defense attorney and the prosecution had presented Kyle Huggett appeared before Judge Gableman with a team of attorneys. (L their basic arguments as to why or why to R) Kyle Huggett, Rebecca Coffee and Craig Mastantuono. not Huggett committed a crime when he shot and killed John Peach on the deigned the motion to dismiss the secnight of Jan. 20. ond-degree intentional homicide Similar arguments will be heard in charge. future court proceedings as Judge Because this was a preliminary hearMichael Gableman allowed the case to ing, the district attorney only had to proceed to trial. show probable cause that a crime was Huggett’s defense team of Craig committed, not prove the crime beyond Mastantuono and Rebecca Coffee a reasonable doubt. For this reason, argued for the charge to be dismissed Kutz only presented as much informabecause Huggett had a reason to be fear- tion as he felt was needed to show probful of John Peach. Peach had left threat- able cause. To do so, he called two witening messages, broken through a nesses, Burnett County Investigator locked door and advanced toward Tracy Finch, who interviewed Huggett Huggett – even when told to stop. It soon after the shooting, and Amy was unknown if Peach was armed or Kerbel, girlfriend of Huggett at the time not until it was too late, they said. For all of the shooting. Kerbel was at Huggett’s of these reasons, Huggett’s actions were home at the time of the shooting. Details reasonable and not a crime, argued the yet to be release about the shooting One of two witnesses called to tesdefense. tify during Kyle Huggett’s prelimiwere revealed with the two testimonies.

Burnett County District Attorney Ken nary hearing is Amy Kerbel who was Kerbel was pregnant with Huggett’s Kutz countered that lethal force was not child at the time of the shooting and had Huggett’s girlfriend at the time of the needed to defuse the threat. Police could lived with him five or six months. She shooting. have been called when Peach threat- also described Peach as almost a best ened to come over. After Peach entered friend, and they had a child together get involved and didn’t know what was the house, his hands were at his side that was around 5 years old. The boy exactly being texted. She also said that and therefore unlikely that he was was also present at the time of the shoot- Peach sounded like he was under the armed. Furthermore, Huggett was a ing. influence in the voice mail left earlier, large man that was physically fit, and she didn’t expect he would come Kerbel’s parents were over for a meal whereas Peach was known to be on dis- earlier that night. They watched the over. ability. Therefore, it was unlikely that Green Bay Packers lose a playoff game When a car pulled into the driveway Huggett was in imminent mortal dan- and also played video games. After and Kerbel heard Peach’s voice, she ger. In addition, Huggett did not fire a Kerbel’s parents left, Huggett and went into the back bedroom and called warning shot or make any attempt to Kerbel listened to a threatening voice 911. Huggett went to the basement to wound and not kill. For all of these rea- mail left by Peach. Peach and Huggett get a gun and load it. He then stood in sons, Huggett’s actions were unreason- had only met once before but had been the kitchen as Peach pounded at the able argued the prosecution. text messaging back and forth for about door. The residence was dark, but the The defense attorney responded that a week prior to this day. The text mes- TV was on. Huggett said that he could even police officers are not held to this sages continued between Peach and see that Peach was not alone, in the standard of a warning shot and too Huggett after the game and Kerbel’s interview with Detective Finch. much was asked of Huggett.

Once Peach entered the house, parents left. In the messages, Peach The prosecution accused Huggett of threatened to come to Huggett’s house Huggett told Peach to stop. Instead, panicking. The law states that Huggett because he wanted to fight.

Peach turned to where Huggett was cannot use lethal force if he was not in standing in the kitchen and took two Huggett admitted to Detective Finch imminent danger of lethal harm. steps towards him. At this point that his messages to Peach were “smart Judge Gableman refused to comment alec,” although exactly what was in the Huggett fired. on the central argument raised other messages was not revealed in the preAlthough she heard the pounding on than to say that both sides were thor- liminary hearing except for one message the door, the door opening and Peach’s ough in presenting their argument and described by the Huggett defense voice inside the house, Kerbel didn’t see that it was one for the jury to decide. describing when Huggett wrote to what took place. Kerbel said she was in Judge Gableman did rule that the Peach telling him to bring milk and eggs the bedroom for about two minutes state had met its burden to show proba- when he came over. when she heard what sounded like gun ble cause that a crime was committed Kerbel testifies that she knew they shots. and that Kyle Huggett was involved were texting back and forth but didn’t She then left the bedroom and asked with the crime. Judge Gableman also Huggett if he shot Peach. Huggett was

One of two witnesses called to testify during Kyle Huggett’s preliminary hearing is Burnett County investigator Tracy Finch. reportedly crouched by the back door and responded that he didn’t know.

Kerbel started crying on the witness stand as she described looking out the window and seeing Peach lying facedown and going out to him.

Kerbel again called 911 and was told to put the weapon in a safe place. Linda Jorgenson, a neighbor and EMT, came over and Kerbel saw Jorgenson tend to Peach. The police arrived approximately five minutes later.

Police took Huggett into custody, and he was interviewed at the government center. His hands were trembling, and he was sweating during the interview, but was cooperative. Huggett, however, refused to provide a written statement on the events after the interview.

Kerbal testified that she did not expect that anything would happen even after Peach arrived at the house, except for maybe some punches before the police would come. On cross-examination, however, she admitted she was fearful for herself and her son when Peach came.

Once the defense was unable to persuade Gableman to dismiss the charge or argue that a crime probably did not occur, a not guilty plea was entered.

The next court appearance has not been scheduled.

Presumably, the next time Huggett will be in court, Gableman will be serving on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and Ken Kutz will be the new circuit judge in Burnett County.

Because Kutz worked as a prosecutor on this case and laid out the argument, he can not act as judge, and the case must be heard by another judge.

It is unknown who the new district attorney will be once Kutz becomes judge.

Only the defense team will return to the Burnett County Courthouse to continue the argument on Huggett’s behalf.

Webster board confronts rising costs

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - Rising costs in student insurance premiums and food for the school meals program generated extended discussion at Monday’s meeting of the Webster School Board. The insurance costs will rise another $2,000 for the 2008-2009 school year, and dramatic increases in food costs will most likely lead to an increase in what students and adults pay for school meals.

Superintendent Jim Erickson made a comparison between what the district pays for the insurance premiums and what the district receives in insurance benefits. He noted that with the exception of one year, in which a student underwent some extensive surgery, the cost of premiums has exceeded the benefits to the district and the students.

Board President Mark Elliott commented that the district appears to be paying out about two times as much as

what it is receiving, and he asked whether the district is expected or mandated to provide insurance coverage for the students. Erickson said, “No, this is a service we are providing to the families.”

He went on to explain that the school insurance is basically secondary insurance. In a situation where the district is liable for health problems of a student, the school liability insurance is in effect.

The student insurance program picks up costs beyond insurance coverage the families have.

“This is not an onerous amount,” said Erickson referring to the premium cost, “but $6,000 here and $7,000 there, and this becomes real money.” In terms of the total budget, the insurance cost is relatively small, but all the small costs add up, he noted.

Elliott pointed out that an amount of that size becomes important in situa-

tions where the schools have to decide where to cut costs. For example, “It comes into play when we may have to cut staff,” he said.

After the discussion, the board asked Erickson to check with other neighboring school districts to see what their positions are, relative to providing insurance for students. A decision on whether to continue to insure the students will wait for that information.

Also waiting for further information is a decision on whether or not to increase the price of school meals.

Webster raised its prices a nickel per meal this past year, but food and transportation costs make it likely that the increase will be more this year.

Prices are still being figured and will not be set until mid-August, but Erickson said he expected a minimum increase of 10 cents a meal with an increase of 15 or even 20 cents more like-

ly.

In other business, Elliott reported that teacher contract negotiations have arrived at a tentative agreement. He commented that the process had run smoothly with cooperation from both teachers and administration, and that a final ratification vote from the teachers would be held in August.

Elementary school Principal Jeff Walsh announced that summer school ended last Friday. In June the enrollment was 195 students, and in July it was 205. School director Lynn Stubbe reported that feedback from the parents was nothing but positive comments.

In other business the board: - approved the second reading of several policy statements; - and Erickson announced that the district’s 21st Century Grant had been renewed, and that the grant amount had increased from $75,000 to $100,000.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Tough times predicted for county highway maintenance

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – The Burnett County Board of Supervisors has been warned. “This is the start of tough times, a roll downhill,” commented Bob Morehouse, county highway commissioner, as he presented his department’s 2007 annual report to the board Thursday, July 17.

“The Mission Statement for the Burnett County Highway Department is to provide a safe, comfortable road network system that conforms to both the Federal Transportation Directives and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Development Manual,” the report starts out.

“One of our primary focuses is to build better roads that will last 20 years with minimal maintenance … the highway department currently maintains 220 miles of roads,” the first paragraph concludes.

The highway levy was limited to a 2percent increase in 2007; however, because of federal reauthorizations, the department’s overall budget was less than 2006 by $304,420. “With the current level of funding that is in place, we cannot improve the overall infrastructure,” the report stated.

Reasons for the roll downhill in 2007 included a 17-percent increase in the cost of asphalt materials and petroleum products after the budget was developed, leading to cancellation of two miles of programmed asphalt overlays.

During the last two years, scheduled maintenance has shown a decrease of 50 percent, going from an average of 10-12 miles of asphalt a year to 4.5 miles of asphalt laid down.

Mary Tripp, candidate for the Wisconsin Assembly from District 73, in the upcoming November election, stopped by to introduce herself to members of the Burnett County Board of Supervisors during their July 17 meeting.

Burnett County Highway Commissioner Bob Morehouse presented the 2007 annual report for his department to members of the county board, along with a warning.

“Because traffic counts continue to increase by double-digits, our current highway infrastructure is failing prematurely. Combined with the existing 48.8 miles of county roads that are beyond the normal life cycles, a more aggressive maintenance program with supporting budget must be developed,” the report read. “This is the start of rough times, a roll downhill,” said Morehouse. “We need to heed the warning (regarding the importance of transportation to the county),” commented Supervisor Chuck Awe. Thirty-four miles of road were beyond the normal life cycle of 20 years in 2006.

In 2007, 48.8 miles had gone beyond the programmed life cycle. The department would need $9.7 million to catch up with infrastructure that has gone beyond the normal life cycle.

According to Morehouse, the department will need a more aggressive maintenance program with supporting budget to keep up with traffic counts that are increasing by double digits and roads that are beyond their normal life cycles.

“Without a sound highway infrastructure, we cannot attract new businesses and families to Burnett County, which will produce a larger employment and financial base for all residents,” the 2007 report concluded.

“We need to heed the warning,” commented Supervisor Chuck Awe. “There are things the county board can do, i.e., set rate restrictions, reduce trucking speed limits to save fuel. This board has so many minds and ideas,” said Supervisor Eldon Freese. “If we put our minds to it, we can help. We can’t provide money, but we can come up with rules and regulations to try to help. This is a major problem.”

A petition asking for the addition of a

three-quarter-time district attorney was circulated for board members’ signatures, with at least 3,000 signatures needed. According to county board chairman Phil Lindeman, Polk County Circulated a petition like this and was successful in their attempt.

Actions taken at the July 17 meeting included: 1) Recognition given to county volunteers and organizations who participated in the successful rescue of Keith Kennedy in the town of Anderson. This included the emergency management team under the direction of Bobbi Sichta and law enforcement – the sheriff, chief deputy and other deputies. Recognition was given to former board members Charlie Tollander and Jerry Anderson (both now deceased) and to Circuit Court Judge Mike Gableman, who is leaving the county to sit on the State Supreme Court.

2) Approval of Foth Consulting as planning consultant for a total contract A moment of silence was part of not to exceed $329,500 for preparation of the agenda for the July 17 Burnett a multijurisdictional comprehensive County Board of Supervisors meeting, in recognition for years of past service given by former, now deceased, board members Charlie Tollander and Jerry Anderson.

Anderson’s children, (L to R) Joni, Tom and Jill, along with Jill’s husband Jim Gloodt, are shown here.

Anderson’s other son, Rick, is a Burnett County supervisor and was seated with the other supervisors. – Photos by Nancy Jappe

Recognition of Judge Mike Gableman’s nearly six years of service as the county’s circuit court judge was also given during the July 17 county board meeting. Gableman is shown here with his judicial assistant Mary Hinrichs. “One of the great things about Burnett County, from the county board on down, is that we who are privileged to serve Burnett County recognize that it is our fellow citizens, our neighbors, that we serve,” the judge commented. “This leads to a reasonableness not evident in other areas of government.” What he called “the greatest experience of my life” was related directly to the people he has been privileged to serve with.

plan and of a comprehensive planning process agreement and contract between 11 townships and two villages (Grantsburg and Webster), with the first payment and signed contract with the townships/villages due by Sept. 15 and the second half payment due by June 1, 2009.

3) Approval of resolutions adopting a revised zoning district map in the town of Lincoln, imposition of a surcharge on restitution for services done by the victim witness coordinator and the district attorney’s office, participation in the county conservation aids grant and an update for Bremer Bank on who among the county staff can deposit and withdraw funds at the bank.

4) Appointment of George W. Sears to the CEP program (continuing his appointment), Chuck Awe to the Recycling Control Commission, and Jim Flanigan, Eldon Freese, Edgar Peterson, Gary Lundberg, Dean Roland or his representative, Ro Endresen and Carol Larson to a steering committee on county cleanup.

Muus is making good progress after stroke SIREN – Jim Muus has been released from Sister Kenny after suffering from a stroke and is able to sneak home once in awhile between outpatient therapy sessions, according to fellow teacher at Webster School, Roy Ward.

Ward was even able to talk with Muus this Wednesday. He reports that is was a nice conversation. Muus is in good spirits and is sounding great, he said. He is even planning on resuming jogging starting today (July 23). “When I hung

up the phone, I was so thankful that he is doing this well. He is such a great guy.”

Muus is still expected to make a full recovery, but is still struggling with word recall and pronunciation.

Muus teaches in the music department and coaches cross country at Webster School. They are making arrangements so that Muus can work and coach only as much as he and his doctors feel he can. – Sherill Summer

Homeland security surveillance systems troubles ACLU STATEWIDE - Wisconsin is one of 43 states to create a “fusion center” that allows state and local law enforcement agencies to gather information about potential terrorist threats, then pass it on to the Department of Homeland Security.

Wisconsin’s is called the Wisconsin Statewide Intelligence Center, operated by the state Justice Department.

But these new centers are coming under increasing scrutiny from the American Civil Liberties Union.

One aspect that worries civil liberty

watchdogs is the recruitment and training of what are known as Terrorism Liaison Officers, or TLO’s. Wisconsin has already trained 100 TLO’s and hopes to train 400 more over the next few years. Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen says they’re drawn from local police, sheriff, fire and emergency medical response agencies.

“This is purely on a voluntary basis so we obviously want to have as many eyes and ears out there as we can looking for suspicious circumstances,” says Van Hollen, “so we can determine if

there is any pattern that we can detect that we could then report to the joint terrorism task force.”

Van Hollen says this is not a new form of domestic spying as some critics claim. He says the TLO’s are trained only to collect information that passes the smell test for possible terrorist activity. But the ACLU’s Michael German says there’s strong evidence that the Fusion centers are tracking of a lot of innocent people.

“This information is actually being fed in a pipeline or is at least accessible

to the CIA and Military intelligence,” says German. “And that’s where it converts what is a function we all want —we want our fire fighters out there preventing fires and servicing their community. We don’t want them being spies on their neighbors.”

The ACLU will be publishing a report soon documenting how TLO’s have violated people’s basic privacy rights in several states. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halsted)

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

City to consider smaller home sizes

Economy driving force

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–A sign of the times was apparent at the planning commission meeting for St. Croix Falls Monday night, July 21. The agenda included considering review of the single-familyhousing standards and code. The discussion included roof pitch and garage setbacks, but more telling about the state of the economy was the minimum square footage and the discussion on that agenda item.

In a city that has advocated for larger single-family homes on larger lots, purporting a discouragement toward mobile and manufactured homes, it was unusual to hear talk of conditional use permits for smaller homes being discussed.

The discussion was centered around the economy and housing market and the fact that some people can’t afford to build a home that is the minimum square footage of 1,040 feet of living space.

The options for developing cabin properties for retirees who may only live there a few months out of the year, or single individuals who may want to build a smaller, more affordable home, or a way to develop city lots that are too small to develop with the presently required square footage, but that could be developed with a smaller square footage, were all tossed out during the discussion.

The commission indicated that in keeping out smaller housing, such as mobile homes or manufactured dwellings, preventing devaluing city property was likely the reason for such a large minimum square footage of 1,040.

The commission discussed how reducing the size would benefit some people, but also wondered, if too many structures started going up, whether people would define the city as “that place with all the small houses.”

“It’s fine for people who want to live there, but what happens when they want to sell them? Are they going to be able to?” asked commissioner Don Puffer. “You can maybe get two bedrooms in there at most. Maybe they could sell it as a starter home, but they could get stuck with it.”

“We need to consider how it impacts property values, having a smaller home next to a larger home,” said commissioner Arnie Carlson. “We see a shift in the housing, but I think it’s because of the housing market and it’s convenient

to build small, but that trend is temporary. I would hate to see us do something permanent to our building codes.”

“I think it was probably created so we didn’t get slum housing,” said Warren White, commissioner. “We could do it on a case-by-case basis with a conditional use permit, could we not?”

City clerk Bonita Leggitt said the city could evaluate proposals for single-family developments less than the ordinance square footage on a case-by-case basis and it would involve a public hearing and notification of neighbors for a conditional use permit.

White said he wanted to see the board resolve for the next two to five years to consider smaller houses with conditional use permits.

“I make a motion to direct staff to pursue such an ordinance to permit housing in the city of less than 1,040 square-feet by a conditional use permit,” White said.

The motion was seconded by Dan Meyers. The motion carried with all members in favor except Arnie Carlson.

John Gyllen was absent.

In other business, the commission looked at a proposal from Brad Dosch, who owns several single-family lots on North Washington Street. Dosch is considering converting the property to duplexes for rental as part of his retirement plan. He wanted the commission to look at the area, which includes six lots, and address his site plan.

The commission identified several problems with the site plan, indicating it is not impossible to do, but there are challenges to the site. The commission discussed the issues and listed them out to forward to Dosch. No action was taken on the item.

The commission listed the following issues: • storm-water management • access to Adams Street • retaining walls anchored into the hillside • emergency-vehicle access and turnaround • driveway permitted to cross neighboring city lot 28 and DOT lots 29 and 30 • vacate the west part of Misssouri Street • possible city land swap with DOT of lots 28 and 30 and city sell lot 30 to Dosch for turnaround or building space • a clear refusal from the DOT that Hwy. 87 cannot be the access • a city/public easement in traversing city lots • tuck-under garages • off-street parking.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

L e a d e r

We b Po l l

Last week’s poll results

Total votes: 79

Favre should:

58% 46 votes Stay retired 14% 11 votes Get his old job back 9% 7 votes Be released or traded 2 votes Be the backup QB or player/coach 3% 16% 13 votes I just don’t care

This week’s question

Gas prices by the end of the year:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Will Will Will Will

remain under $4/gallon exceed $4/gallon exceed $4.50/gallon top $5/gallon

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r No orders to shut down kitchen Burnett County Sheriff’s Department Emergency Management and Public Health would like to take this opportunity to share with the public corrected information about articles that were written regarding Health Department Shuts Down Kitchen during and shortly after the search for Keith Kennedy.

The information in the articles was not correct.

The state health inspector did conduct an inspection of Trade Lake Camp on Friday, June 20 – not because of a complaint – but because it is normal procedure when an event such as this happens at a licensed facility.

The state health inspector did issue orders to the camp. The orders were to provide documentation about the training of workers at the camp – which the camp did provide. There were no orders written to “shut down the kitchen.”

The state health inspector offered guidance and support to the staff members at the camp to assure that they were providing safe care for the residents of the camp. In addition, she worked with the staff to assure they were providing safe food for the volunteers and campers. As a matter of fact, she even helped to label and put away food that had been donated to the efforts for finding Keith Kennedy.

As with any situation, communication can break down and this is one of those examples.

We are thankful that in the end, Keith Kennedy was found and returned to his family.

It is the mission of public health to assure healthy people and healthy environments. We are grateful for the hours that so many put into the efforts to find Keith and that the volunteers remained safe.

Carol Larson, RN PH Supervisor/Health Officer Burnett County DHHS Siren

Dairy judging program

W h e re t o Wr i t e

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

Governor Jim Doyle 115 East, State Capitol Bldg.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

T h e

I am writing this letter to express the gratification I have for all of the families involved in the 4-H Dairy Judging program in Polk County.

This was my girls’ first year taking in this opportunity that is offered through our local 4-H program.

My daughters, Marley and Madelyn, have had an interest in showing cattle at the Polk County Fair these past years with wonderful guidance and education from our neighbors at Marshland Farms, Inc. With having little to no knowledge of farming and dairy herds myself, and with my girls showing more interest in understanding the animals that they love to be around, we were convinced to take part in the Polk County Dairy Judgting Team.

Not really knowing what I was getting myself into, I now can say what an awesome educational and learning experience it was for all of us. The families and farm owners that give up their time in their very busy schedules to allow all these kids to come and judge their animals was truly amazing, and then there are the coaches and parents that volunteer

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

their time and educational advice as well.

Polk County has definitely succeeded when it comes to showing the talent that our kids have, and will be competing at the state dairy judging contest being held at the Polk County Fair on Thursday and Friday, July 24 and 25.

So I would like to extend my gratitude to all of the farms, coaches and parents who have had a role in this great project this year and in the past.

Hope to see you at the fair!!

Michelle Doolittle Cushing

Patriotism and respect I am not sure a letter to the editor is the best way to express my thanks and respect to the Siren community, but I wanted to at least give an attempt.

I am a lieutenant commander in the Navy, currently stationed in Washington, D.C., at the Pentagon.

While on leave over the Fourth of July weekend, I attended the Siren Fourth of July parade. I was quite humbled and happily surprised to see the respect afforded to our country’s veterans as they led the parade. It may not be something anyone in the area notices or even gives a second thought, but having traveled around the world and lived throughout the U.S., it was quite apparent to me when everyone stood, removed their hats and paid their respects to the veterans and the flag they carried.

Everyone appeared to do this without exception as I looked down the crowded street. Men, woman, children and even toddlers raised from their chairs and enthusiastically clapped and showed their appreciation for what these veterans have done for our country, as well as paying their respect to our flag and the country it represents.

The people of Siren and the surrounding communities probably don’t even think about doing these seemingly natural acts for them.

However, I have unfortunately seen otherwise and often in the media you hear and see the loud minority who may not share this same appreciation and affection for our country. As a veteran, having been both to Iraq and Afghanistan, it was very heartwarming attending the parade and seeing the obvious patriotism of the community.

Living in Washington, D.C., you constantly hear the bureaucratic and political battles. It was great to be away from that and see the communities and people who really drive this country and make it a great place.

Although I left Northwest Wisconsin 19 years ago, it is the people and seemingly small things like this that make me proud to call Wisconsin “home” and serve our country.

Sincerely, Lt. Cmdr. Gordie Meyer Washington, D.C.

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JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

People we trust

We are personally very upset with the decisions that have resulted in the loss of nursing care in Osceola, necessitating the move of John’s mother along with others to new and unfamiliar surroundings. Many are suffering. However, we think it is important to recognize who did not make the decisions that led to this situation.

The doctors who have treated our family with skill and personal care for over 30 years did not make these decisions.

The nurses and doctors who treated Karla’s father with such compassion in the last days of his life and who helped us through those days with knowledge, information, sympathy, and compassion did not make these decisions. The doctors and nurses who have been treating John’s mother with patience and skill in her advancing years, and whose knowledge, skill and quick action saved her life in a recent heart attack, did not make these decisions.

The physical therapists, who have helped several members of our family get back on our feet, or regain use our arms or hands, did not make these decisions.

The support staff of the medical center, the housekeeping, dietary, and other staff, without whom the medical center and hospital could not function, did not make these decisions.

These people are all moving shortly into a new up-to-date facility that will make their daily work lives more productive and more enjoyable. They have been looking forward to this for some time – not only because it will make their working lives better but also because it will enable them to better serve their patients. They have a right to be happy in their new surroundings and to celebrate their move.

We wish them all the best in the new facility and we intend to continue to get our medical care there, where we have for many years, from the people we trust.

John and Karla Jenkins Osceola

Pickens’ plan Finally, someone with some clout has shown up with a national energy plan.

T. Boone Pickens has taken the time to do something that the White House and both houses in Washington, D.C., have failed to accomplish in more than three decades.

I may not totally agree with the plan, but I’m sure there has been many hours of thought invested by Pickens and his staff. Pickens is confident enough about this plan to put his money where his mouth is. Then, as expected, some moron shows up to rain on Pickens’ parade. It was no surprise to me when Al Gore decided he needed his ego stroked again. There was no surprise to his followers that he also had a plan. I am pretty sure the whole country didn’t notice Gore’s plan happened to be announced within a few weeks after Pickens’.

Gore says Pickens is only in it for the profits that will be forthcoming. Big Al’s plan requires taxpayers to cough up several trillion dollars. Pickens’ plan also requires the feds to get involved but includes big bucks of his own. If your plan is so great, where’s your money Al? I am sure there will be more than one enterprising company willing to invest if the plan makes good sense.

The people investing in any venture deserve to make a profit, they are the ones taking the risk. This is called capitalism, Al. This is what this country does.

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

Pickens made his money the hard way, he took risks and worked hard to make a profit. Gore, on the other hand, grew up with old money and the money he made on his own was from halftruths and a lot of disinformation.

Taxpayers paid for Gore’s stint in Washington, where the national energy policy should have come from years ago. Then organizations that have bought into his half-baked ideas have paid him for speaking engagements on global warming. All of these endeavors have made Big Al a very rich man. The overreactions by state and federal governments have cost the average working family a lot of money in overregulation.

Gore does not hesitate to tell everyone what to drive, how much to drive and where to set your thermostat in your home. Then on the other hand, the Gore family home uses 20 times more energy than the average American home, and travels on their private jet. Gore justifies this excessive energy consumption with the carbon credits he buys. I guess he sleeps better at night knowing his family leaves a zero carbon footprint yearly. My guess is most people reading this couldn’t afford a carbon credit or even know where to buy one.

As you probably have figured out, I just don’t like Gore. This tree-hugging, self-indulging hypocrite may have some good traits but none come to mind at this moment.

My money goes on Pickens. He may be a wealthy oilman, but he finds ways to get things done and has no need to stroke his ego or spew out untruths just to hear himself talk. In my opinion Gore needs to go away and let someone who knows what they’re talking about lead the way. With energy prices at an all-time high, private industry will find the right answer for our nation. These wind farms should be an environmentalist’s dream come true. The only question is, will these die-hard tree huggers allow the building of these wind farms on a massive scale? My guess is they will make it far more difficult than it needs to be.

Herschel Brown Frederic

No money problems?

Looks like we need to send some of our country board members to Madison, then to Washington, to save our country finances.

With loss of job, loss of homes, price of gas, food, taxes and banks going under, our board members, with a snap of their fingers, we have $5 million for a new highway campus.

Committee member Art Gamache was correct. The tax bill had just been screwed up. They were way too low and had to be raised as if the first one wasn’t bad enough. The public relations effort was poor. True again, with some misleading information. The timing was poor. Correct, again, when many are losing everything, companies and government are cutting back trying to make ends meet, Polk County seems to have little money problems.

Dennis McKinney Luck

Letters

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

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

Use your seat belts

It’s been just about a year now since our terrible car accident.

I ask you to take the five extra minutes to seat belt your kids in and yourself. I ended up losing the greatest man in my life. My daughter spent one month in Gillette’s Hospital but is doing wonderful now and always wears her seat belt.

I am coming along OK. We were within walking distance of our destination.

So, please, whenever your in a vehicle, no matter if it is just two blocks or four hours, give yourself a hug with your seat belt. We miss you, Matt.

Serena Baugh Rural Frederic

545 People I’d like to share this item with your readers. It’s written by Charlie Reese, a journalist from Miami: Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them. Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits? Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, we have inflation and high taxes?

You and I don’t propose a federal budget. The president does. You and I don’t have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does. You and I don’t write the tax code, Congress does. You and I don’t set fiscal policy, Congress does. You and I don’t control monetary policy, The Federal Reserve Bank does.

One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president and nine Supreme Court justices - 545 human beings out of 300-plus million - are directly, legally, morally and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.

I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority. I don’t care if they offer a politician $1 million in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator’s responsibility to determine how he votes.

Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.

What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall.

No normal human being would have the gall of a speaker, who stood up and criticized the president for creating deficits.

The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.

It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300-plus million cannot replace 545 people who stand convicted – by present facts – of incompetence and irresponsibility.

I can’t think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people.

When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.

If the tax code is unfair, it’s because they want it unfair. If the budget is in the red, it’s because they want it in the red.

If the Marines are in Iraq, it’s because they want them in Iraq.

If they do not receive Social Security

but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it’s because they want it that way. There are no insoluble government problems.

Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exist disembodied mystical forces like the economy, inflation or politics that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.

Those 545 people and they alone, are responsible. They and they alone, have the power. They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses - provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.

Leon Moe Luck

Respect or remove it Recently it was brought to my attention of the shameful disrespect that is shown for the American and P.O.W. flags at JJ’s Club 35 south of Luck on Hwy. 35.

Please replace or remove these flags!

If you are going to display the American flag, give it the honor and respect it deserves.

The American flag is the sacred emblem of our country. It symbolizes our birthright, our heritage of liberty purchased with blood and sorrow.

Respect it, fly it with honor, or don’t fly it.

Carol Gutzmer, Luck

Hats off to EMS

When was the last time you thanked firemen, police, ambulance or EMT public servers? These folks are often unsung heroes in our communities.

Maybe you have been lucky and fortunate not to have had the experience of having these folks personally involved in your life.

A few weeks ago my son was hit by a car on CTH F, just a few yards away from our home. He was riding his bike, with his twin sister behind him and was hit by a car. He flew up to the hood of the car, hit the windshield and cracked his helmet, then fell to the street and incurred severe road rash as well as deep scrapes and cuts to his body.

Before I was able to get to the site of the accident, a first responder was there, as well as an EMT, stabilizing his neck.

The first responder’s wife was on her way to meet her husband for dinner, witnessed the accident, and immediately called her husband. A neighbor, who I haven’t met called the police and offered bottles of water to folks standing around, concerned about my son.

The ambulance folks wrapped him up and took him to emergency at St. Croix Falls. They stayed with us the entire time we were there and were comforting and supportive. Sheriff’s deputies were there taking reports, the street was blocked off for a while to ensure the safety of all people offering help and support, many were there. Another neighbor was very kind to my son’s twin sister and held her close to comfort her.

My son has thanked me many times for insisting he wear a helmet. The rule was simple ... no helmet … no bike. My son is healing nicely, the trauma to our family has taught the neighbor kids who saw the accident. They are now wearing helnets when they bike, as well as my husband. I am so very grateful to our EMS services for their kindness and professional conduct. Thank you for your outstanding service.

Gloria Grange Vollmer Dresser

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

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

Cut spending first, tax less not more n May and June, many of you took the opportunity to respond to my 2008 Taxpayers Survey, which I distributed and posted on my Web site, www.harsdorfsenate.com. The survey is still online for people to offer their opinions on a variety of tax and spending issues in Wisconsin.

Initial feedback from nearly 400 people has about 60 percent feeling the tax burden is “way too much” with another 33 percent feel it is “too much.” Only 7 percent of the respondents felt it was “about right.” Options of “too little” or “way too little” did not register.

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Property taxes for local government were cited as the greatest burden by 72 percent of respondents, while state taxes – income and sales tax - were cited 17 percent of the time and transportation taxes on gasoline receiving 11 percent.

Taxes are a function of spending or debt. To bring taxes into line with people’s ability to pay, we must rein in spending. This sentiment was shared by respondents when asked how we should deal with budget shortfalls.

Ninth-three percent expressed that government should cut spending, with only 2 percent asking for increased borrowing and 5 percent calling for higher taxes.

State government has five major budget appropriations from its sales

Sheila

Harsdorf

10th Senate District

and income tax revenues. These are K12 school aids (43 percent of the total general budget), medical assistance and health care (12 percent), aid for local services (7 percent), the UW System (7 percent), a n d corrections/public safety (6 percent).

These five appropriations are about three-quarters of all state spending.

When asked what legislative funding

priorities should be, respondents weighted that medial assistance and health care 30 percent of the time as a higher priority, followed by K-12 education 26 percent, local services 25 percent, corrections 13 percent, and higher education 6 percent.

As working families are challenged by a national economic slowdown, I believe government spending should come in line with our ability to pay. Tax bills that make it even harder for families to pay their bills or for businesses to offer good-paying jobs are the wrong direction for our economy.

If you would like to add your input to these survey results, please visit my Web site www.harsdorfsenate.com or call me at 800-862-1092.

1933 •Inter-County Leader: 75 years of local news • 2008 Seen any bears lately? sure have! First my husband spotted a mother bear and two cubs on the road near our house. Then, about a week later, we awoke one morning to find our garbage strewn across the lawn.

Also, I heard from numerous constituents who expressed concerns regarding bears, from Somerset to Webster.

So what’s with all the bear sightings?

Well, an ongoing DNR-funded study suggests that the Wisconsin black bear population may be much larger than previously thought – 26,000 instead of the 13,000 researchers previously believed. In light of this development, I thought it would be a good idea to provide you with some information about

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Victory for gun owners un ownership and hunting are an important part of Wisconsin’s rich culture and history. Wisconsinites across our state share a strong commitment to protecting the rights of the millions of Americans who safely own firearms for sport and self-protection.

Throughout my career in public service, both in the Wisconsin State Senate and the U.S. Senate, I have believed that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to bear arms. As a state senator, I was the lead cosponsor of a state constitutional amendment to establish the right to bear arms in Wisconsin. In Congress, I

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black bears as well as some bear safety tips.

Black bears are beautiful creatures and an important part of our wildlife here in Wisconsin. They are one of the largest and most impressive animals in our state, weighing anywhere from 225 to 500 pounds. Black bears are fun to observe from afar and as long as you remember some simple tips and act responsibly, they shouldn’t be dangerous.

Black bears are shy and solitary animals and will usually run away when they come in contact with humans. If you see a bear near your home you should remain calm. Usually the bear is just looking for food and will leave quickly if it doesn’t find any. In order to prevent attracting bears, make sure you do not feed them. The DNR advises

you to keep your garbage in a bearsafe container.

Bring pet food in at night. Bring bird feeders in nightly if you feed birds after April.

Above all, don’t feed bears! They don’t forget where to get a free Berries and Hraychuck meal! mast (acorns, nuts) are late in ripening because of the late spring this year so natural food is limited.

Always remember to keep a safe distance between you

and a bear and never approach a black bear. If a bear is threatening you, your family, your home or your pets, do not hesitate to call local law enforcement.

The agency responsible for nuisance black bears is the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Wildlife Services. Contact them at 800-228-1368 for questions regarding nuisance bears.

These are just a few basic tips. For a more in-depth brochure, please contact my office and ask to have the DNR brochure Living with Bears mailed to you. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions on this or any other legislative matter via phone 888-5290028 or via e-mail at rep.hraychuck@ legis.wi.gov.

have opposed measures that seek to unreasonably limit this right, including gun licensing requirements and handgun bans.

That is why I was pleased by the recent Supreme Court ruling that the Second Amendment grants an individual right to own and possess firearms, regardless of whether the owner belongs to a militia, and to use that firearm in any legal manner. This decision struck down as unconstitutional the Washington, D.C., law prohibiting the sale or possession of handguns and semiautomatic weapons and limiting the possession of certain types of gun ammunition.

The Supreme Court also recognized

that some gunrelated restrictions are reasonable and will be upheld. I believe it will be possible, following the Supreme Court’s decision, to pursue a moderate course that is faithful to the Constitution and to the realities of modern society.

The decision should not prevent common-

sense measures, such as ensuring that child safety locks are sold with every handgun, that do not infringe on gunowners rights.

This decision will be remembered as a major victory for our nation’s lawabiding gun owners. My hope is that now that the court has made clear that there is an individual right to bear arms, the two sides of the debate will end divisive and unproductive political fights and focus on crafting laws to address gun violence while showing the proper respect for our citizens constitutional rights. – from the office of Sen. Feingold

Ann

28th Assembly District

Russ

Feingold

U.S. Senator

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Gas prices Rep. Hraychuck, you ask who is to blame and state there is no clear-cut answer. I beg to differ. There is a clear-cut answer, and the answer and the blame lies at the feet of our government in Washington. I do thank you for your lesson on where gasoline comes from, and I feel I am now qualified to try out for “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader Or A Politician?”

You are a little off in your estimate of 10percent tax; it is closer to 18 percent when you factor in federal, state, county and local.

This does not include the 17 barrels per every 100 the federal government takes off on federal land leases, and 13 barrels per 100 for every offshore lease as a royalty. Or that 30 barrels out of every 200 are taken right off the top. Ann, bet you didn’t know that in 2007, Exxon made $40 billion in profits and paid $30 billion of it to the federal government in taxes.

Why are gas prices so high? It is quite simple. You state the same tired Democratic line that we can’t drill our way out of the problem to lower prices. I say, “Yes we can.”

If we had started in ANWR in 1992 when Bill Clinton took office, we would be well on our way to “American solvency.” As of this writing, the Chinese and the Cubans are drilling 60 miles off the coast of Miami. It’s

called horizontal drilling, in the direction of our continental shelf. Yet, we have representatives in Congress like David Obey who are out of touch with the hardships of people in this area after spending 39 years in Washington. He should be the poster boy for term limits.

Ann, you speak of leases not being drilled. If you are issued a federal lease on marginal land, and having been in the business long enough to know you will more than likely come up with a “dry hole,” would you spend your money to develop it while known reserves off our coast and in Alaska sit idle? Yet, we have members of Congress talk of a “windfall profit tax” and allow in excess of $700 billion to leave America every year to the Middle East, South America and Mexico. This creates jobs, but not for Americans. It also helps fund mosques and madrasah where radical Muslims can learn more advanced “Hate America” ideas and ways in which to kill us.

But to appease us dummies at home, we all get a stupid check for $600 to stimulate the economy.

Ann, consider the following: If the $700 billion we spend to buy foreign oil were instead spent to explore, drill and refine in America, how many jobs for Americans, some of whom are your constituents, would that create? Why should we have carpen-

ters, pipe-fitters, electricians, and engineers out of work in this country when we could be building oil platforms, pipe lines, refineries, developing our coal in the West and oil shale in the Dakotas? Why are we not spending this $700 billion to develop wind, solar and nuclear energy solutions so America is not held hostage by countries who hate us?

Two final points, Ann: 1. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is 19 million acres. I repeat, 19 million acres.

The oil companies wish to drill on 2,000 acres. This is the equivalent of putting a postage stamp on the 50-yard line at Lambeau Field and sticking a straw through it.

2. On an individual basis, what can I, and you, as my state representative, do? I, as the owner of a small business, can decide to raise my prices or lay off two people and park two trucks to offset a monthly gas bill that went from $1,800 a month in 2006 to $4,200 a month in 2008. You, as my representative, could see the problem for what it is: a government boondoggle, and petition misters Obey, Kohl and Feingold on behalf of your American working constituents to bring the $700 billion a year back to America to create American jobs and make us a nation not held hostage by countries who hate us.

Yes, Ann, there is a Santa Claus. It’s the American working taxpayer. It’s not complicated. Drill here, drill now, create jobs for Americans.

Tom Magnafici St. Croix Falls

In Meenon Please correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t the members of the Meenon Town Board vote themselves a pay raise a while back?

At a time when people are losing their jobs and homes because of high taxes! Meenon Town Board closes down Midtown Bar, not only the taxes that the bar brings in but what about the people who lost their jobs? Who do you think is going to make up those taxes? We are, that’s who!

Mr. Jeff Pavelka has hit the nail on the head. Oh, I forgot to mention that Wisconsin is a “recall” state. Check it out.

M.R. Marion Town of Meenon Webster

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

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Board approves eight promethean boards

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS–The school board for St. Croix Falls met twice last week.

The first meeting was July 15, which was the regular meeting, and the next was July 17, which was a special meeting.

At the July 15 meeting, the board heard a proposal for the social studies curriculum budget that included the purchase of four promethean boards, which are interactive boards used for instruction. Each year one area of curriculum gets a budget to upgrade or update their curriculum and this is done on a rotating basis. This year’s curriculum budget is for the social studies department.

The committee proposed four promethean boards so there would be one board in each of the grades six, seven, and eight for social studies, and one in the high school social studies department.

Promethean boards are being used in the elementary classrooms and with the proposed addition of boards for grades six, seven, eighth, and high school, the concern from the school board was that there are no boards for the fifth grade.

This put a slight halt on approval of the budget including the boards.

“The problem I have with this is I see a gap,” said board member Mona Schmidt.

Kathy Willow, middle school principal, explained that the curriculum committee wanted to go a more technological route for their curriculum this year.

She explained that the fifth grade has four classrooms for social studies and the budget did not allow for the purchase of eight boards and rather than put four in the fifth grade and have access to the boards end, the committee thought to put them in the higher grades so they are available throughout high school.

Willow said that the curriculum budget also included textbooks and other needs, so there was just no way to

include additional boards in that budget and get them for everyone. The cost for one board, including installation and set up, is $5,500. It was also mentioned that other curriculum budgets coming forward may include board purchases for the fifth grade. Otherwise it would be awhile before social studies came up again on the budget process.

The board discussed the gap in fifth grade and how to bridge it with the possible purchase of at least two boards for the fifth grade, taking money from the school budget somewhere. The discussion also addressed the issue of teachers who may choose not use the boards, because maybe they aren’t tech savvy or they choose different instruction methods.

“If you are trying to carry this up from the elementary, you aren’t giving teachers the option to do it,” said Schmidt.

“It’s more like you are going to do this.

It’s not going to be a dust collector.”

“There are other ways to teach that are effective,” Glenn Martin, superintendent, reminded the board. “These boards are not the only way to teach.”

“I’m not saying you have to have them at the fifth grade level, but if you are looking at implementing the students into this process, I don’t see the fifth-grade represented and I think they should be at some point,” Schmidt added.

“From a budgetary standpoint, I can see it working through the curriculum budgets to get them in, but I agree with Mona about the fifth-grade being left out,” said Bruce Paulsen, board member.

“I have seen them used at the elementary school and I think it would be a step back for the fourth graders coming into fifth grade for them [boards] not to be there,” added Pat Mitchell, board member.

“I think we have two issues here,” said Willow. “One is the curriculum budget and if you approve it, and the other issue is that you want to get it in

more classrooms and how are you going to do that? What is the plan?”

The board approved the social studies curriculum budget for the four promethean boards at the July 15 meeting.

They also indicated they would research options for the possible purchase of at least two boards for the fifthgrade rooms to be discussed at the July 17 special meeting.

At the July 17 special meeting, the board discussed and approved the purchase of four additional boards for the fifth grade classrooms [one for each room]. Schmidt made the motion, seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried by majority voice vote with all five members in favor. The district has a technology budget and will utilize some of that toward the board purchases.

Additional July 15 business •A motion by Schmidt and seconded

by Mitchell accepted the resignation of Duane Doolittle as a bus driver with thanks for 19 years of service to the students of the district.

•The 2007-2008 audit of district funds has been completed by the LarsonAllen auditing firm. Updated information will be presented to the board at the August board meeting.

•A motion by Schmidt and seconded

by Paulsen approved a resolution authorizing the borrowing of $1,840,000; providing for the issuance and sale of general obligation refunding bonds; and levying a tax in connection therewith. This resolution results in the refinancing of the final six years [to 2014] of middle school bonds at a savings to the district of approximately $50,000 over the six-year period.

Motion carried by a roll call vote.

•A motion by Mitchell and seconded

by Schmidt approved an increase in breakfast and lunch prices for the 200809 school year. Breakfast prices will increase 10 cents per meal. The new cost for breakfast will be $1.25 for K-4

students; $1.50 for 5-12 grade students and $1.95 for adults. Lunch prices will increase 15 cents per meal. The new cost for lunch will be $2 for K-4 students; $2.15 for 5-12 grade students. An increase of 25 cents for lunch for adults brings the cost to $3.35 per meal. The board also approved an increase for an additional carton of milk by 5 cents per carton. Motion carried with all in favor.

•The board went into closed session and reconvened into open session. The following action was taken in open session: A motion by Schmidt and seconded

by Paulsen was made to deny the grievance of Mary Beth Pilz. Motion carried.

A motion by Paulsen and seconded by Schmidt approved hiring Lynette Larson as the food service supervisor for the 2008-09 school year. Motion carried.

Additional July 17 business The board also approved music addition costs at the July 17 meeting. These costs were discussed at the July 15 meeting, but were not on the agenda for action. To avoid any open meetings violations, Schmidt motioned for the items to be approved at the July 17 meeting and be noticed.

A motion by Schmidt and seconded

by Max Fehrenbacher approved hiring F. B. Contractors, Inc.; K.C. Electrical; and Swede’s Concrete to remodel three math classrooms into two math classrooms at the high school at a cost of $7,667.

A motion by Mitchell and seconded

by Schmidt approved hiring Rice Lake Engineering at a cost of $2,000 [including state approval of plans] for updating of the family and consumer education room at the high school.

A motion by Schmidt and seconded

by Paulsen approved spending up to $17,000 to purchase additional sound panels and storage units for the band and chorus room addition at the high school.

Polk County filming in full swing POLK COUNTY - Residents may have noticed a lot of lights, camera and action in Polk County over the last few days. Crews from “Discover Wisconsin” were in the area taping for an episode highlighting Northwest Wisconsin that will air throughout the Midwest April 11 and 12, 2009.

Several attractions and recreational areas were filmed, including Interstate Park, Eric’s Bike & Canoe Rental, the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, and the Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tour.

The program is a joint effort between the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe and Northwest ITBEC - the International Trade, Amy Frischmon, vice president, with her brother Dan Radeke, president Business and Economic Development of Taylors Falls Recreation, with host Stephanie Klett of “Discover Council.

Wisconsin,” taping on the Princess Boat Tour. – Special photo Sue Matthews, director of the Polk

County Information Center, is a member of Northwest ITBEC, and was pleased with the upcoming project. “’Discover Wisconsin’ does a great job in getting the word out to a large audience on the wonderful natural beauty and attractions we have here. It will be excellent exposure for our county.”

“I was so impressed by the activities and beauty of Polk County,” said “Discover Wisconsin” host, Stephanie Klett. “Most counties would do anything to have the natural resources you have here. It’s a gift.”

The program highlighting Northwest Wisconsin and the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe will be broadcast three times over a twoyear period.

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Cost per pupil It’s time for second half taxes and I thought you might be interested in seeing how some of your taxes are being spent by your local school districts U.S. Census figures released this month showed that Wisconsin spent $10,190 per pupil to operate public schools in 2006. A new report from the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance analyzed these data in greater detail and found that school expenditures here ranked 14th highest among the states and 8.5 percent above the U.S. average ($9,390).

The main reason for the above-average ranking was fringe benefits that exceeded national averages by more than 50 percent. Now in its 76th year, WISTAX

is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public-policy research organization dedicated to citizen education.

Of the $10,190 per student total, Wisconsin devoted 60.4 percent to instruction, about the same share as the rest of the nation, 60.2 percent. WISTAX said that amounted to $6,157, or 8.9 percent more than the national norm ($5,654), good for 14th place among the states. The Badger State also spent more per student on instructional support, e.g., libraries and staff training, ($496, 9.9 percent above the U.S. average, 13th highest); administration ($781, +14.0 percent, 16th); building operations and maintenance ($979, +7.8 percent, 15th); and transportation ($411, +2.3 percent, 22nd). Pupil services, such as counseling, was the only major category where

Wisconsin ($446, -7.9 percent, 24th) trailed the national average of $485.

Examining specifically instructionrelated expenses, WISTAX calculated that, in 2006, salaries ($3,939 per pupil) were 2.7 percent above the U.S. average of $3,835 and 16th highest nationally.

Benefits were 52.5 percent above the U.S. mean ($1,854 versus $1,216) and sixth highest. Instructional costs for items other than compensation ($364), e.g., books and supplies, were 39.7 percent below average ($583) and ranked 44th in the U.S. Wisconsin spent more ($6,157, 14th) on instruction per student than the surrounding states: Illinois ($5,452, 22nd); Iowa ($5,071, 30th); Michigan ($5,395, 23rd), and Minnesota ($5,874, 16th).

However, when instruction net of bene-

fits was compared, Wisconsin trailed ($4,303) the U.S. average ($4,438) by 3.0 percent, as well as Minnesota ($4,655) and Illinois ($4,420). Iowa ($3,975) and Michigan ($3,821) both spent less.

You as taxpayers spend more on salaries and benefits than most of the rest of the country, with benefits being 50 percent higher than the average. So come election time this year, ask your politicians what they intend to do to bring things more in line and fight the double-digit increases we have been experiencing in our property taxes.

Fritz Coulter Amery

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WHS 60th reunion celebrated The 60th reunion of the Webster High School Class of 1948 started at Don Grunnes place on Oak Road, town of Dewey, Wednesday, July 16, then finished with dinner at the TimberRidge Steak House a mile away. Eleven of the 37 members of the class (16 are now deceased) are pictured here outside the Grunnes home. Front row: (L to R): Jeanette Anderson Driscoll, Lois Wilson Mack, Marge Hedberg Sorensen, Anne Staples Stone, Alexia Monahan Person and Loretta Johnson Neuman. Back row: Jack O’Brien, Bob Hokanson (who came from San Antonio, Texas), Don Grunnes, Harley Harkness (from eastern Tennessee), Bill Janssen and, from the Class of 1947, Stu Fosmo.

Members of the Webster High School Class of 1948 have been planning for their 60th reunion for a long time. A letter dated Dec. 1, 2007, went out to all classmates, telling them about the gathering at Don Grunnes house on Oak Road, then dinner at the nearby TimberRidge Steak House. The classmates were asked to send their family history and pictures for a memory book that was being assembled. The reunion schedule included a stop at the allschool reunion held at Ike Walton Lodge Thursday, July 17. “Ours was a good class from beginning to end,” one of the members commented.

Members of the football team from the Webster Class of 1950 were invited to be part of the Class of 1948’s 60th reunion. These players included (L to R): Bill Simmons, end; Jack Harkness, defensive back from eastern Tennessee; Arvyl Gatten, defensive end; and Jim Childs, quarterback.

Harkness’s dad, Ash Harkness, was a professional football player for the Chicago Bears. Harkness himself, after only one game and as a freshman, was the starting quarterback on the UW-River Falls football team. His first play was a 50-yard touchdown pass, and he started every game for the next four years. – Photos by Nancy Jappe

Check out our e-edition at www.the-leader.net

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

Polk County Fair runs Thursday to Sunday ST. CROIX FALLS - The Polk County Fair runs this Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27.

Following is information provided by the Polk County Fair Society:

Stelter on mandolin and Bruce Qualey on bass. These talented musicians have appeared throughout the upper Midwest at festivals, school, museums and town halls, where their unique brand of entertainment has served a focus for family and community gatherings since 1988.

Open horse show (Sunday, 8 a.m.)

Gate admission prices: Daily single admission ticket (includes everyone 8 yrs & older) 4 p.m. Thurs. to 4 p.m. Sunday - $6 Jr. Season Ticket (ages 8 – 17) $10 Adult season ticket (18 & over) $15 Parking is FREE

Little Britches Show (Sunday, 10 a.m., livestock show barn) This show allows children an opportunity to get involved in the Fair by showing livestock in a non-competitive, positive experience. Little Britches gives children up to nine opportunities to show beef, dairy, sheep and goats. For more information, contact Jeanne Alling at 715-825-2226 or Stephanie Larsen at 715-825-2599.

Phone numbers at fairgrounds during the fair Secretary’s office – 483-3391 Extension office – 483-3035 Barn office – 483-9056 Mr. Ed’s Magical Midways Pay-One-Price, Thursday, 4 to 10 p.m. – $15 each Family Day Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

– 4 Rides for $5 Pay-One-Price, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. – $15 each Pay-One-Price, Sunday, NOON – 5:00 P.M. - $15.00 Each

No admission for grandstand events except demo derby on Sunday, 7 p.m.

- $10 for everyone.

Highlights overview Thurs., 8 p.m. - Horse pull Friday, 11:30 a.m. - Kiddie tractor pull Friday, 1 p.m. - K-9 search/rescue Friday, 7 p.m. 4 X 4 truck pull Saturday, 11 a.m. Garden tractor pull Saturday, 5:30 p.m. Tractor pull Saturday, 6 p.m. Quality meats auction Sunday, 1 p.m. K-9 search/rescue Sunday, 7 p.m. Demolition derby Feature highlights 4-H music solos Antique exhibits Battle of the Bands Centenarian recognition Dairy and beef shows Dairy goat shows Destnd Further Band Dog shows Fairest of the fair Folk music with Duck for the Oyster Historical displays in Red School Hog and sheep shows Indianhead Choir Interstate Band Lake Country Cloggers Little Falls Music Makers Llama show Monster truck rides Mr. Ed’s Magical Midway Poultry and rabbit shows Rex Cactus band Sami Dare St. Croix County 4-H Youth Choir State Dairy Judging Contest Talent show Tribal Spirits of the Sun dancers Vallee De Croix Wilson Family Over 6,000 exhibits Great county fair cuisine Free parking - and much more!

Entertainment schedule Thursday, July 24

Main Stage 1 to 5 p.m. - 4H Dog Show 6 to 10 p.m. - Battle of the Bands (5 local bands participating) Redwood Deck 5 to 8 p.m. - Rex Cactus Band Dance Pavilion 1 to 5 p.m. - 4H judging Grandstand 8 p.m. - Horse pull

Friday, July 25

Main Stage Noon - Little Falls Music Makers 1 p.m. - St. Croix County Show Choir 2 p.m. - Herrlinger Family Band 3 p.m. - St. Croix County Show Choir 4 p.m. - Little Falls Music Makers 5 p.m. - Herrlinger Family Band 6 p.m. - Sami Dare, hypnotist 8 p.m. - Destnd Further Band 10 p.m. Destnd Further Band

Redwood Deck 1 p.m. - Auggie the Clown Local talent to be announced 6:30 p.m. - Wilson Family Dance Pavilion Noon - 4H judging Grandstand 1 p.m. - K-9 search/rescue 7 p.m. - Four-wheel drive truck pull Dairy Judging Tent 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. - State Dairy Judging Contest

Saturday, July 26 Main Stage 1 p.m. - Tribal Spirits of the Sun Dancers 2 p.m. - Vallee De Croix 4 p.m. - Sami Dare, hypnotist 5 to 8 p.m. - Talent Show 8 p.m. - Sami Dare, hypnotist Redwood Deck 11 a.m. Auggie the Clown Local talent 5 p.m. Alzen Band Dance Pavilion 1 p.m. - 4H solos 8 p.m. - Duck for the Oyster Grandstand 9 a.m. - ATV pull 11 a.m. - Garden tractor pull 5:30 p.m. - Tractor pull Show Barn 6 p.m. - Quality Meats Auction Auggie the Clown (strolling)

Sunday, July 27 Main Stage 10:30 a.m. - Church service by United Covenant Church, Clear Lake Noon - Crowning of 2008 Fairest of the Fair 1 p.m. - Indianhead Choir 2:30 p.m. Lake Country Cloggers Redwood Deck 10:30 a.m. - Fairest of the Fair Tea 12:30 p.m. - Interstate Band 1:30 p.m. - Recognition of centenarians 2 p.m. - Interstate Band Dance Pavilion 1 to 4 p.m. - Bingo Grandstand 1 p.m. - K-9 search/rescue 7 p.m. - Demolition Derby (admission $10 per person) Auggie the Clown (strolling)

Highlights Sami Dare The Sami Dare Stage Hypnosis Show is hilarious fun for everyone! Visitors to the Polk County Fair become stars of a wonderfully creative and positively hilarious romp through the imagination.

They become fishermen, racecar drivers and movie stars. They eat ice cream cones, speak foreign languages, and may even forget their own

names.

Stage hypnosis explores the entertaining possibilities of the unexplained phenomenon we call hypnosis.

Modern technology has not been able to lift the veil of mystery that surrounds the power of the human mind. All hypnosis is truly “self hypnosis.” The participants make it happen – not the hypnotist!

People always have fun.

Nobody is embarrassed. It’s safe, funny, and guaranteed to please.

Bio: Sami and her hypnotist brother, Tommy Dare, have been sharing the stage since childhood, when the family formed a gospel singing group and toured the Midwest. She is a former elementary school teacher and certified hypnotist who has been delighting audiences across the nation for over a decade.

Horse pull (Thurs., 8 p.m.)

Weigh in is from 6 p.m. thru 7:30 p.m.

The teams are divided into two classes: light weight (less that 3,100 lbs. per team) and heavy weight (more that 3,100 lbs per team). Contact Josh Wickum 715-235-3017 Livestock shows (Thurs.-Sun., various barns) Some of the finest livestock in Northwestern Wisconsin will be at the Polk County Fair. The Hog Show is the first livestock show and is on Thursday at 2:30 p.m. in the Hog and Sheep Barn. The Beef Show is Friday at 8:30 a.m. in the Livestock Show Building.

The Poultry Show is on Friday at 9:30 a.m. at the Poultry Barn. The Llama Show is Friday at 6 p.m. The Rabbit Show takes place Saturday at 9:30 A.M. in the Rabbit Barn. The Dairy Show is on Saturday at 9 a.m.in the Livestock Show Building. Dairy Showmanship in on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in the Livestock Building, as well.

The Dairy Goat Show is on Saturday, at 1 p.m. at the Hog and Sheep Barn.

Monster truck rides (near carnival) Come take a ride in a Monster Truck!

Cost is $5 for all ages.

Kiddie tractor pull (Friday, 11:30 in front of administration building) Roger and Laurie Neumann have been operating pedal pulls in neighboring communities and throughout the state since 1983. The first years they did one pull. In 2008, it has grown to twenty-two pulls. There are three sanctioned pedal pull operators in Wisconsin. They are Wally Stanger of Ladysmith, Steve Taylor of Colfax and Roger Neumann of New Richmond.

Pedal tractor pulling is a great kid’s sport and provides wonderful family entertainment. It encourages friendly competition, good sportsmanship, and helps to build a child’s self-esteem.

The children are divided into classes according to age. Each local community decides which classes they would like to run, selected from five options.

The Polk County Fair runs five classes, with ages ranging from four years old and under through twelve years of age.

These are state sanctioned pulls, which means that the first, second, and third place winners in each class qualify to compete at the Wisconsin State

Pedal Pull. This event is held in midSeptember and alternates between Ladysmith, Colfax and St Croix Falls.

The 2008 Wisconsin State Pedal Pull will be held at the Polk County Fairgrounds. Winners of the State Pedal Pull qualify for the national Pedal Pull, held at The Corn Palace at Mitchell, South Dakota at the end of September. Winners of the National Pull qualify for the International Pull the following summer. This event is held at a different location each year. It has been held in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Canada to name a few.

Four-wheel drive truck pull (Friday, 7 p.m., grandstrand) Cash prizes will be awarded.

Registration and check in will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday. Rules and entry information can be obtained from Dave Reyer at 715-248-3815.

ATV pull (Saturday, 9 a.m., grandstand) Registration begins at 8 a.m., with an entry fee of $10. Trophies and gift certificates and some cash prizes will be awarded. Entrants must be at least 16 years old to enter and need a signed form from a parent or guardian unless 18 years and older. For rules and information contact Tracy Zmuda at 715268-6533.

Garden tractor pull (Saturday, 11 a.m.)

Presented by Dairyland Garden Pullers. Contact: Charlie Boese 715455-1357.

Tractor pull (Saturday, 5:30 p.m.)

Registration is from 2 to 5:30 p.m. for classes up to 7,000 lbs. For all others, registration is at 6:30 p.m. For more information contact Rod McGee at 715-268-7272.

Livestock auction (Saturday, 6 p.m., show barn) 85 animals owned by 4H and FFA exhibitors are sold, 35 steers, 20 lambs and 30 hogs. For more information call 715-485-8600.

Talent contest (Saturday, 5 p.m., Main Stage) Contestants must be full time or seasonal residents of Polk County. Last year’s place winners are ineligible to compete. There is a limit of six entries per category ( pre-registered contestants will be granted complimentary admission tickets to the fair) and there are three age divisions: Youth 12 and under, Youth 13-18 and Adults 19 and over. Contact Kathy Brihn at 715-6357642 for more information.

Duck for the Oyster folk band and dance (Saturday, 8 p.m. dance pavilion) Since 1998, “Duck For the Oyster” has been entertaining and teaching folk dancing at the fair. Folks, young and old, are invited to join in the fun as dances are taught before the music starts and no experience is necessary.

The group is made up of callers Karen Kaufman and Kathy Brihn, with instrumentalists Kevin McMullin on the fiddle, Bob Clark on the guitar, Larry

Fairest of the Fair (Sunday at noon, Main Stage) Carole Peper, 2007 Polk County Fairest of the Fair, will crown the 2008 Fairest of the Fair at this event.

Judging was Thursday, July 10. A cash prize of $250 is awarded the winner with the runner-up receiving $50.00.

The winner will participate in the state contest during the Wisconsin Association of Fairs Convention January ,2009.

Each contestant receives a plague from the Locker Room of Amery. Sponsors include Bernicks Pepsi-Cola, Dresser; Bremer Bank, Amery; Cain/Fennern Jewelry, Amery; Eagle Valley Bank, N.A., St. Croix Falls; Cahill Studios of Photography, Amery; Goldstar Cooperative & Precision Ag Services, Rural American Bank, Luck; S & C Banks, The Locker room, Amery; WESTconsin Credit Union, Amery; Polk County Fair Society.

Indianhead Chorus (Sunday, 1 p.m., Main Stage) The Indianhead Chorus is celebrating it’s 50-year anniversary this year! The Polk-Burnett County Chapter was stated from the nucleus of a quartet (the Chordaliers) formed in Cushing, WI in 1956. The quartet consisted of Bill Jensen, LaVern Larson, Ed Olson, and Loren Nelson. For more information contact: Ken Mettler, 715-483-9202.

The headliner is a crowd pleaser and an international championship quartet named FRED. Interstate Band (Redwood Deck) The Interstate Band, a brass band, will play patriotic music, marches and other great band songs.

Lake Country Cloggers (Main Stage) Rob and Sheryl Keller and their Cloggers bring you energetic dancing known as clogging. This group consists of over 200 members from ages 2 to 70 plus years old. Their clogging is done to a variety of music including country, blue grass, Irish and upbeat pop. This Appalachian folk style of dance is footsompin’ fun for the whole family.

Demolition Derby (7 p.m. Sunday) The Demolition Derby will begin at 7 p.m. Cars will line up between 3 and 6 p.m. Entry fees will be $25 for driver and one pitman, each additional person will be $10. Driver’s meeting at 6:30 p.m. sharp. Admission to this event is $10. For more information contact Chad Boyd, 651-308-5882.

Historical activities (Red School) Eureka, Sterling and Laketown Historical Societies will be hosts in the Red School at the fairgrounds, There will be historical displays and demonstrations of techniques of historical arts and crafts. Saturday will be Writers Day and local authors are invited to read and autograph their books. The Polk county Genealogy group will help you with your family roots and Friday night is Radio Show Night and Saturday is Matinee at the Movies Night. Contact Russ Hanson for more information, 715/488-2776.

For more information go to the Web site: WWW.POLKCOUNTYFAIR.COM

Subscribe to our e-edition online @ www.the-leader.net

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Schools Days

Former North Fork students under the original North Fork School sign. – Photos submitted BURNETT COUNTY – “School Days, School Days” rang out as many of the former students, spouses and friends of North Fork School No. 5 met at Dwight Anderson’s home on July 12. The events began with a noon potluck and then a program. Roger Stauter from Madison emceed a program that honored Velva Bauer, the oldest teacher, Eunice Gruehl the oldest student, Maryls (Fagerberg) Norve of Florida and Kenneth Norling of Arkansas, who came the farthest. Many students saw each other for the first time in many years and reminisced over pictures. A booklet of pictures and stories of bygone days was made up for each students to purchase.

North Fork School was the first schoolhouse built in Burnett County in 1893. It was built on the corner of CTH D and Williams Road. At first it was only open three months in the fall and two months in the spring. The log school was moved to the Otto Peterson Farm and a new school was built in the early 20th century on the corner of CTH D and North Fork Drive. Many improvements were made to the new oneroom school until it was closed and torn down in 1956. – submitted LEFT: Rueben Johnson, Russell Brenizer, Marlys (Faberberg) Norve, Bernice (Nelson) Olson are North Fork students reminenscing at the school reunion on July 12.

Sixth-annual pottery tour this weekend

BURNETT COUNTY – The Sixth-annual Northwestern Wisconsin Pottery and Tile Tour will be held this weekend from Friday through Sunday, July 25 – 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Five studios will be open to the public. Three of the five studios are in Danbury, and the others are in Foxboro and Lake Nebagamon. Available for purchase in the different studios are wood-fired tiles and pots, porcelain dinnerware and mosaics from award-winning, nationally known potters. The public can also meet the potters and ask questions. Some of the potters will demonstrate techniques during the tour as well.

Black and yellow signs will be posted along roadways, leading to the studios. A map and directions can also be found online at www.nwwisconsinpotterytour.com. – submitted

Stops on the Sixth-annual Northwestern Wisconsin Pottery and Tile Tour.

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JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

Frederic pool costs being studied

Repair of old pool could be expensive

by Gregg Westigard FREDERIC – A few new developments have taken place on the future of the Frederic pool.

A small group from the school district met July 9 with Brian Hobbs from the Polk County Health Department to discuss code deficiencies with the pool.

Second, a committee of persons from the school, the village, and the community will work with contractors to establish some firm estimates of what it would cost to fix the pool.

Lastly, the school board held a long discussion on the pool at its meeting July 21.

The costs to repair the pool in time for the 2009 season could exceed $65,000, according to district administrator Jerry Tischer. He added that the district has about $28,000 available in the community education fund that could be used for these repairs.

The meeting with Hobbs reviewed solutions to a list of concerns identified in a May 22 letter from the Wisconsin Department of Health. Some 15 deficiencies were identified in that letter.

While Hobbs accepted school district solutions to most of the items, proposed solutions to two problems were found “unacceptable,” and the solution was not proposed to a third issue.

The three unresolved issues could also be some of the most expensive to fix. An overview of the issues was presented in a pool report, dated July 10 and updated July 15, which was pre-

sented to the school board.

The first unacceptable solution relates to the gutters around the pool used to skim the water for filtration. Proposed answers to this issue include removing and rebuilding the entire pool deck at a possible cost that could range from $50,000 to $100,000 according to estimates from area plumbers.

Next, the proposal to fix the pool floor again by scraping, filling cracks and painting was rejected. The district has done this each year at an annual cost of over $5,000.

Lastly, no solution was offered to the issue of increasing the turnover time for the pool water. The pool now recalculates the water eight times per hour.

That rate needs to be increased to six times per hour to meet health codes.

The report from the district says that rate would be “impossible” to achieve without increasing the diameter of the underground pipes. An alternative, using more chemicals, might be found unacceptable according to the pool report which goes on to say that the district might not be able to operate the pool because of this issue after making all the other repairs.

School board Chair Marilyn Sederlund said that the Frederic Village Administrator David Wondra told her that the village is willing to help with the pool. A special committee, with persons from the village board the school board, and the community, will be set up to find possible solutions and firm prices to getting the pool back in operation for use until a new pool can be built.

“We want honest answers to the ques-

No consensus on highway building Discussion goes to county board

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – A joint meeting of the property and highway committees Monday, July 21, came to no consensus on how to proceed with a plan to solve problems at the county highway building.

A number of concerns have been identified with the 1937 highway building in Balsam Lake. County voters rejected, by a four to one margin, the idea of building a new highway campus at an advisory referendum in February. The county is looking at options for further action. The property committee and the buildings department are responsible for issues relating to county buildings.

The highway department and committee is offering information on site requirements.

There are a wide range of questions on the table. Should the county build a new highway shop now or wait a few years.

If it waits, how much money should be spent on repairs of the present buildings. If the county builds, should it be on a new site or the present site. Should the county buy land now and build later.

An hour and a half discussion on these issues led to one decision, that the dialogue should go to the entire county board. The nine supervisors from the two committees, with highway committee member Herschel Brown absent, did not make a recommendation for action to take to the full board. But the members offered many opinions and ideas.

“We should not wait five years to start the project,” Larry Jepsen said. “We should take advantage of the present economic conditions to start planning.

We don’t want to get employee health problems. We might need to bite the bullet.” Jepsen added that firm cost estimates are important as a first step.

Russ Arcand said that any solution

needs board support from the full county board. He said that the county has a good cost estimate from the new Washburn County facility. The board must decide whether to put money into the present building or start new.

“We do need to upgrade the facility,” Mick Larsen said. “There is no doubt about that. The building has problems.

Even spending $3 million on it won’t bring it up to code.”

“I disagree with Larry and Mick, and I think the majority of the board disagrees,” Dean Johansen said. “I am not convinced we need more land. There are possibilities for the present site. The highway department is 25 percent the size it was 40 years ago. We need to put money into the old building. Nothing has been put into it over the years.”

“The county has enough land,” Joan Peterson said. “I hear a lot of opposition from my constituents. They don’t believe in a new facility.”

Art Gamache said the county board needs to come together on three questions, do we need a new facility, where should it be, and how should it be designed. He said the board must commit to a concept. He said the public does not want the financial details, it just wants to understand the need.

Marvin Caspersen said it will take a significant investment to stay in the present building. He said that hard numbers on the costs for the alternatives are needed so the county can move forward.

“I want the two main committees to work out a tentative plan,” Bryan Beseler said. “We need to make a plan now that will bind future boards.”

“The board needs to recognize that there is a problem and we might spend $3.25 million to fix it,” Gamache said.

“Why sit on the board if we don’t want to make decisions.”

“We need to look for consensus on what to do,” Arcand said. “We will be moving forward on fixing the immediate needs.”

tions: Is it possible to fix the pool, will it work, and what will it cost?” Sederlund told the school board. She added that a new pool might be three to five years in the future.

That led to the discussion at the school board.

“The village board wants the pool to continue,” Tischer said. “Wondra wants to look at real costs. The village needs a price tag.”

“We need to be clear if we are talking about fixing or about building a new pool,” Becky Amundson said. “Why spend money to fix the pool?”

“We need to fix the pool to keep the kids interested until the new pool is

built,” Scott Nelson said.

“If we are going to spend $100,000, why not put that money into the new pool?” elementary Principal Kelly Steen asked.

“Are we spending money on fixing the pool or on a teacher?” Terry Taylor asked. He noted that the district is cutting teachers.

Tischer said the district does not have the money for the repairs and that money would need to be found.

This leaves the district exploring ways to reopen the present pool in 2009 while the Friends of the Pool Group raises money for a new Frederic pool.

Frederic sets elementary class sizes

Expenses look on target with budget, Meal prices increased

by Gregg Westigard FREDERIC – Frederic Elementary classes vary greatly in size.

The Frederic School Board was forced to make some tough decisions on next year’s student/teacher ratios at its monthly meeting Monday, July 21.

The board also took another look at the proposed budget for the coming year, reviewed the condition of its bus fleet, and heard a report on the rising cost of food. That discussion led to an increase in meal costs for the coming year.

Frederic elementary class sizes range from 38 students to 24 students. In addition to the range in size, some particular classes can be more challenging. In addition, the SAGE program for educational enhancement offers aid but requires more teachers in the class room. Frederic kindergarten expects 37 students for the coming year, with 33 in first grade, 24 in second, 38 in third, 26 in fourth, 36 in fifth, and 35 in sixth.

The board needed to make the decision of how many teachers to hire for the coming year, balancing state guidelines, the needs of the district students, and the $70,000 cost on an additional teacher. The biggest question was how to staff grades three and four, what the ratio will be for 38 students and for 26 students. A limited budget meant that increasing the total elementary teaching staff above the total of 16 was not considered an option.

The board, with the advise of elementary Principal Kelly Steen and administrator Jerry Tischer, decided to split third grade into three sections with a 121 student-to-teacher ratio and have a single fourth-grade class with a 26-1 ratio. Tischer said that choice for third grade will make the Department of Public Instruction happy. A 19-1 ratio might not have received approval from DPI. The Frederic enrollment is declining each year. At the start of the past year, the average class size for kindergarten through grade seven was 34 students while grades eight through 12 averaged 46 students. Using the September numbers, the graduating class had 56 students, and the entering kindergarten was 38 students, almost 20 less.

Budget for the coming year Tischer told the board that the 2007-08 actual revenues and expenses for the year which ended June 30 should be very close to the budgeted amounts. He said that the annual audit has started and final numbers should be available soon.

The proposed budget at present shows an increase of $294,000 in expenses for instruction and support

services. The total expense for that part of the budget is now projected to be $6,006,104. The largest single increase in that budget is $60,276 for transportation, a projection of how rising fuel costs will affect the district.

Tischer said that revenue figures from the state have not been received, but he anticipates an additional $38,782 in a new sparsity aid package for districts with less than 10 students per square mile. He expects that revenues and expenses should balance.

Food service costs and other items Food service director Judy Shafer reported that food costs are rising rapidly, with the prices for the basics, milk, cheese, pasta and bread, increasing between 12 percent and 17 percent. She said that operations costs have been reduced, but the food program is still losing money. The board approved an increase of 20 cents per meal to bring the food service budget to a break-even point. This means that lunch prices will range from $1.90 per meal for K-3 up to $2.20 for grade seven through 12.

Shafer also said that half the Frederic students now qualify for the free and reduced cost state meal program. The district will make efforts to get more qualifying families in the program, saying it helps the parents with lower expenses and helps the district with its income flow. Application forms will be included in the enrollment packages and included in the district newsletter.

The board also faced the decision of what to do with one of its buses. A 2001 bus with 91,000 miles has a blown engine. Installing a new engine, at a cost of about $12,000, could put the bus back in service, able to serve the district for over 100,000 additional miles. A new bus would cost about $75,000. The bus as it is has no value. Even though the budget is tight, the board approved the engine replacement. The district has busses for five daily routes with three operational spares. The district might use the repaired bus to replace the oldest in-use bus and sell some of the spares.

There will be a rearrangement of the school guidance counselor positions.

The district will hire a new permanent half-time guidance person for the elementary school and a new full-time counselor for the high school for a oneyear temporary position. Previously, one of the jobs had been split between the schools as a long-term substitute.

The board hired Ryan Pagenkopf as the new business education teacher, replacing Linda Richie who resigned in June. It also hired retired teacher Jeff Carley as the athletic director for 80 percent of the position with teacher Bob Pyke hired for 20 percent of the position. Pyke will supervise the junior high athletic programs.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

Dove Home Care announces expansion of service area

BURNETT COUNTY - Dove Home Care, 1416 Cumming Avenue, Superior, has announced the expansion of its service area to include all of Douglas County, Northern Burnett and Southern Bayfield counties effective Aug. 1. With the recent closure of Douglas County Home Care and reductions in St. Mary’s Home Care, Dove will continue to focus on providing skilled home-care services to area residents.

“We’re very pleased to be able to fill a gap in home care srvices in Bayfield and Burnett counties,” said Greg Leiviska, director of Dove, “We can arrange an initial meeting with a case manager with a phone call from the patient, a

doctor, social worker or family member.”

Dove Home Care is a private not-forprofit agency, affiliated with Catholic Charities Bureau of Superior. Dove Home Care has a long history in Superior and Douglas County.

Founded in 1981, Dove Home Care was established to provide needed services in the area that were not provided by other agencies.

The broader coverage provided by Dove continues that philosophy. Home health care is an essential service that the Dove believes enhances the lives of people whether living independently, in group settings, or in housing designed

for the elderly. The services provided

by Dove Home Care are available to anyone in need regardless of religious affiliation or economic circumstances.

Dove Home Care is Medicare and Medicaid certified and licensed, providing skilled nursing services, physical, speech and occupational therapy, home health aides, lab work, dressing changes, injections and infusions, 24hour care, supportive care for the terminally ill and pediatric care for children.

Dove accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance and private pay clients that require a skilled service on an intermittent basis as well as those clients who require private-duty nursing to

remain in their home.

Dove Home Care professionals have earned their reputation for competent care of people with ongoing or temporary health issues. Whether the need is for care 24 hours a day or a visit once a week, Dove Home Care will assist people in need to regain an independent lifestyle.

Dove Home Care develops an individual plan of care for each person served. Dove can be reached at 1416 Cumming Avenue, Superior, WI 54880, 715-392-3133 or 888-395-9195, www.thedovesuperior.com - from Dove Home Care

Dispute over hangar lease nears an end

by Sherill Summer SIREN – Burnett County Hangar Owners Association’s dispute with the Burnett County Airport and the county is nearing an end.

The dispute arose when Burnett County attempted to revise its hangar lease at the airport. The matter was taken to court, and the motions and countermotions filed by attorneys on both sides have accumulated in a file several inches thick. Judge Eugene Harrington of Washburn County has made several partial decisions on the case, while urging both sides to negotiate. Even the Federal Aviation Administration submitted a letter to Burnett County, asking they negotiate with the hangar owners association.

Eventually the two sides did negoti-

ate. This last winter a mediated compromise was struck. Attorneys from both sides have had a chance to comb through the revised language of the lease, and a 16-page lease was sent to the hangar owners on June 25.

Already, airport manager Jeremy Sickler has received back about 20 signed hangar leases of the 25 leases sent out to hangar owners. He has heard no complaints from the hangar owners and feels the mediation was a success. Although neither side got everything they were asking for, the revised lease is something both sides can accept.

Along with the signed leases, the hangar owners are catching up on their lease payments since the county did not accept lease payments while the lease

was disputed.

Even if all of the hangar owners sign the revised lease and catch up on their lease payments, the dispute is not quite over. The lawsuit filed by the hangar owners association is still open.

Attorneys from both sides are now tackling the documents needed to drop the lawsuit. It is unknown when the documents will be complete and the lawsuit formally dropped.

A special case

One count of sexual assault dropped; one remains

by Sherill Summer BURNETT COUNTY – Charles E. Smith, 41, Grantsburg, had one of his two repeated sexual assault of same child charges, Felony B, dropped just before his preliminary hearing at the Burnett County Courthouse on Wednesday, July 16.

A taped interview from one of Smith’s alleged victims that was going to be used in the preliminary hearing was sent from a group home in Montana.

Ordinarily, testimony in a preliminary hearing is live so that defense attorneys and prosecutors can cross-examine witness testimony.

However, Judge Michael Gableman allowed an exception with this witness in an earlier court date in March.

The alleged victim in Montana is now 13 years old and lives in a group home.

Cognitively and emotionally he is at a level typically seen in a child of 8 or 9.

Under stress, he regresses even further.

A mental health therapist working with the victim testified in March that the victim is diagnosed with post-traumatic stress that seemed to be related to the sexual assault allegedly perpetrated by

Smith during the summer of 2001.

The testimony sent to Burnett County for the preliminary hearing, however, was an audio recording, not Charles E. Smith the video recording needed according to Wisconsin law. Charges stemming from this victim were dropped until a video testimony is obtained.

Meanwhile, another alleged 13-yearold victim that is now living in Florida did testify via telephone. She described alleged sexual assault that took place in the Smith home while she lived there, starting in 2005.

Gableman found probable cause that a crime was committed and bound the remaining charge over for trial.

The next court date is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 3.

(L to R) Rockhound extraordinaire Vernon Peterson looked on in delight as Judge Mike Gableman and Webster tech-ed teacher Roy Ward carried a solid maple case into the Peterson house early Tuesday morning, July 22. The case is one of three made during the past school year by students in Ward’s tech/woodworking class. The cases, when finished, will have full-length lighting and glass fronts. Peterson will fill them with examples of rocks from the area. One case will go to each of the three Burnett County schools. Dedication of the cases will be take place at noon Wednesday, July 30, in the lobby of the Burnett County Government Center. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

Public input sought on public transportation

To be held July 30 at Balsam Lake

BALSAM LAKE - A meeting between Burnett and Polk counties to develop a coordinated public transit – human services transportation plan will be held at the Polk County Government Center, 100 Polk County Plaza, Conference Rooms A and B in Balsam Lake on Wednesday, July 30, beginning at 1:30 p.m.

This meeting is a joint effort between Burnett and Polk counties and is being coordinated through their aging units.

Federal transit law requires that projects selected for funding under the

Elderly and Disability Capital Assistance Program (Section 5310), Job Access and Reverse Commute, and New Freedom programs be “derived from a locally developed, coordinated public transit – human services transportation plan” and that the plan be “developed through a process that includes representatives of public, private, and nonprofit transportation and human services providers and participation by members of the public.”

Most counties in Wisconsin currently receive money through one or more of these programs.

The meeting is open to the public and all interested individuals, elected offi-

cials at all levels, and transit providers are encouraged to attend the meeting.

Attendees will assist in identifying transportation needs of individuals with disabilities, older adults and people with low incomes; provide input into strategies for meeting locally identified needs; and assist in prioritizing transportation services for funding and implementation. Information collected at this meeting will be used to develop the public transit – human services transportation plan.

Persons residing in Burnett County or providing transit services within the county who are unable to attend the meeting may submit written comments

on existing, new or improved transit services to: Sheldon Johnson, Northwest Regional Planning Commission, 1400 South River Street, Spooner, WI 54801 or by e-mail to sjohnson@nwrpc.com.

Persons residing in Polk County or providing transit services within the county who are unable to attend the meeting may submit written comments on existing, new, or improved transit services to: Ann Schell, West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, 800 Wisconsin Street, Mail Box #9, Eau Claire, WI 54703-3606 or by e-mail to aschell@wcwrpc.org. - from Northwest Regional Planning Commission

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P O R T

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

Countdown begins for Kalmoe and Beijing

Training, packing, all part of the preparation

by Marty Seeger PRINCETON, N.J. – Making it to the Olympic Games is something very few athletes get to experience. Yet, the area has had its share of Olympians over the years. The Peterson brothers, John and Ben of Comstock, made their mark at the Olympic games in '72 and '76 in wrestling, while Molly Engstrom made a name for herself in the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in hockey.

With the 2008 Summer Olympic Games fast approaching, U.S. Olympic rower and St. Croix Falls native, Megan Kalmoe, will be trying to make a name Megan Kalmoe

NBC Olympic Rowing Coverage

(Tentative and Subject to Change) *All rowing races will be streamed live and be available on-demand on www.NBCOlympics.com.

Saturday, Aug. 9 (Heats)

NBC and NBC HD • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 10 (Heats)

NBC and NBC HD • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 11 (Repechages) NBC and NBC HD • 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

USA and USA HD • Live, 2 a.m. – Noon Tuesday, Aug. 12 (Repechages) NBC and NBC HD • 8 p.m. – Midnight USA and USA HD • Live, 2 a.m. – Noon Wednesday, Aug. 13 (Semifinals) USA and USA HD • Live, 2 a.m. – Noon Thursday, Aug. 14 (Semifinals) NBC and NBC HD:• 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 16

(Gold Medal Finals) NBC and NBC HD • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 17

(Gold Medal Finals) NBC and NBC HD • 10 a.m. – 6 p.m Men’s and Women’s Eights.

NBC and NBC HD • 7 p.m. – Midnight

Ellen Tomek (L) of Flint, Mich and Megan Kalmoe, St. Croix Falls, will be teaming up in the women's double sculls rowing event in Beijing, China, beginning Aug. 8. - Photo by Brett Johnson (US rowing) for herself as she goes for a medal in rowing. Kalmoe and rowing partner Ellen Tomek were elected to the U.S. Olympic rowing team early this summer, and while they are both trying to rest in between rigorous training practices, preparation alone can take a lot of effort.

“While we are trying to lay low and rest in between practices, there is still a lot to be done before we leave for Beijing,” Kalmoe stated. She added that the shopping and packing list is enormous.

“We will be making an epic trip to Target and Walgreen’s in the upcoming days,” she said. "Juggling the gear packages, and my unfamiliarity with the culture and climate of China is making packing seem like a pretty daunting task.”

But even though packing might be on Kalmoe’s immediate mind at this time, her focus on winning a medal at the Olympics comes first. But through it all, she finds a lot of appreciation for her current position and the magnitude of it all.

“All the time I am thinking about the many people who have helped me along the way, and it truly is remarkable how much of this I owe to all of them,” Kalmoe said. “Being a part of the

Olympic Movement and participating in something on such a global scale has really opened my eyes to the importance of remembering who and what you are, where you’ve come from, and all the places you’ve stopped along the way. The small things really do add up, even in just 24 years.”

Since being nominated to the U.S. Olympic Team, Kalmoe says the training schedule has been about the same.

Practices consist of rowing about two to three times each day, five days out of the week. But training has now become a daily routine, and rowing takes place every day of the week.

Much of what the duo has been working on includes a lot of base training to build on aerobic fitness, as well as working to improve their technique.

“The technique work has been challenging and frustrating at times, but fortunately for us, Ellen and I have a great natural chemistry in the boat, so that even if we don’t make the technical changes perfect, we can still be fast,” Kalmoe said.

Much of the full-time training is being done with the entire men’s and women’s Olympic squads at Lake Carnegie in Princeton, N.J. They’ve also been able to do some workouts with the Olympic women’s lightweight double,

Peterson brothers put Comstock on the map John Peterson recalls historic journey to Olympic Games

by Marty Seeger COMSTOCK – When you think of Olympic wresting, the name Dan Gable comes to mind. That’s because Gable is regarded by many to be one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers of all time. The name is synonymous with the sport, but Gable’s many great accomplishments, including an Olympic run in the 1970s, and a storied coaching history at the University of Iowa, probably didn’t generate nearly the excitement that the Peterson brothers did during the '70s–which stretched far beyond the tiny, unincorporated town of Comstock.

John and Ben Peterson grew up on a dairy farm in the Comstock area, and attended Cumberland High School.

They worked for Lamperts in Barron, and worked the tough job of shingling barns and houses all over the Barron area. It was hard, physical work according to John, who is about a year and eight months older than his brother Ben. “But good for wrestling too,” said Peterson, who reflected on his and his brother Ben’s experiences in the ‘72 Olympics in Munich, Germany, and the ‘76 Summer Olympic Games in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

John began wrestling as a sophomore in high school, sitting out his freshman year because of a football injury, and his brother Ben began wrestling as a

See Brothers/ page 21

John Peterson (L) and brother Ben wrestled in the '72 and '76 Olympic games in freestyle wrestling. The brothers are pictured at Camp of Champs, a wrestling camp founded by them in 1977. - Photo courtesy of Camp of Champs

which Kalmoe said has been a lot of fun.

With all of the preparations with training, packing, and various meetings to brief the Olympians for their trip to China, Kalmoe says there is little time to relax. Although she does admit that she and Tomek are notorious for their relaxing skills between practices, there’s no time to truly sit back and relax.

“There’s just too much to be done, and every practice is an opportunity to gain an advantage over your competition,” Kalmoe said. “I don’t already have a gold medal in my hand, so there’s no reason to relax just yet.”

Kalmoe feels that the U.S. Olympic rowing team has a great opportunity to produce a strong medal showing at the games this year. She’s anxious to see how many of her friends will come home with a medal. Other athletes from the area who will join Kalmoe on the U.S. Olympic rowing team this year include Matt Schnobrich and Micah Boyd of St. Paul, Minn., and Beau Hoopman of Plymouth, Wis. All three are rowing in the men’s eight.

Extra Points

••• ST. CROIX FALLS – After representing Team Wisconsin, and going undefeated in the Cadet National Greco-Roman wrestling Tournament in Kansas City, Mo, Joe Raygor prepared himself for the national GrecoRoman and freestyle tournament in Fargo, N.D. Unfortunately, Raygor injured his elbow while at a River Falls National Cadet Camp where he was training to go to Fargo, and was unable to participate in the national tournament. - Marty Seeger ••• MILWAUKEE – Milwaukee Brewers games featured on WXCE 1260 can be heard on the following dates: The July 24 game against the St. Louis Cardinals begins at 7 p.m.

The Houston Astros at Milwaukee games are on July 25, 26 and 27 beginning at 7 p.m. 6 p.m. and 1 p.m. respectively. The Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee games on July 28, 29 and 30 begin at 7 p.m. all three nights.

••• MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota Twins games featured on WLMX 104.9 FM can be heard on the following dates: The July 25, 26 and 27 Twins games at Cleveland begin at 6 p.m., 6 p.m. and noon respectively.

The Chicago White Sox at Minnesota series on July 28, 29 and 30 begin at 7 p.m. all three nights.

••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to go in Extra Points! – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete who will be playing collegiate sports in 2008 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld

SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 10 p.m. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

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

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Reigning champ Steenberg does it again

Howie Steenberg adds one more world championship title to his name

by Kerri Harter GRANTSBURG – An elated Howie Steenberg, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., gave his trademark smile and said, “This will keep me going for another year!”

Steenberg, who came out of retirement last year to take the world championship title, now has four to his name, making him second only to 12-time champ Mark Maki.

Howie Steenberg “Unless they have three of these (world championships) a year, I’ll never pass Mark up,” laughed Steenberg. “I’ll be too old!”

Steenberg raced flawlessly all weekend, taking firsts in every heat he entered, at the 32nd-annual World Championship Snowmobile Watercross in Grantsburg, July 18-20.

However, there’s more to the story than just what the fans saw on the water, and it’s a story of innovative mechanics, some bad luck overcome, and of true camaraderie among racers in the pits.

At the Frederic Watercross a few weeks ago, Steenberg wasn’t able to make a complete oval without sinking and did not qualify for Sunday’s race.

“This is a brand-new prototype motor,” explained Steenberg of his 2008 XP 800 R Ski-Doo and of the modifying work

being done to it to make it the rocket it is. “We’re doing things that are brandnew. It takes some time to work out the bugs.” Steenberg and racing partner Jason Houle, owner of Straightline Performance in Forest Lake, Minn., put in over 200 hours of engine work the week prior to Grantsburg’s event.

“Jason does so much to help with this sport,” said Steenberg. “He sponsors and helps out several of the racers.”

With the time constraints involved, Steenberg got very little practice in with the new sled. “Tuesday night was the first complete oval I made,” laughed Steenberg, obviously satisfied with the results.

Houle ran the sled in Friday’s qualifying drag heats and ended the day well.

Steenberg then raced Saturday’s qualifying heats in the pro open ovals with no problems. But Sunday was a different story. Houle flew through the quarter- and semifinals of the mod drags, but prior to the four-man final, mechanical issues kept him from making it to the starting line.

“We tore down the whole motor and found a blown base gasket,” said Steenberg. What would have been the end of the race for Steenberg, was quickly remedied by longtime friend Mark Maki. “Mark had a spare gasket, and Jason and I had it changed in about 20 minutes,” said Steenberg, who then went out to win both the quarter- and semifinals. But how far does friendship go when the base gasket blows a second time and it’s either produce another one and put Steenberg on the line with your son or keep your toolbox closed? In this case, it goes pretty far, because Maki handed the second one over with little hesitation. “If you’re going to win, you want to beat the best,” laughed Maki

Howie Steenberg takes his 2008 world champion victory lap at the world championships in Grantsburg, July 18-20. – Photos by Kerri Harter about his son Chad’s tough competition in the finals, four of which were past world champions.

In the exciting granddaddy race of the weekend, the crowd got quite a show as the six drivers all vied for the coveted title in the eight-lap race. Andy Busse

came in second with Chad Maki taking third. Jeff Fisher, Dale Lindbeck and Mike Memory finished fourth, fifth and sixth respectively.

Steenberg’s main sponsors are Straightline Performance and Danner Sales.

World Championship Snowmobile Watercross Results • Grantsburg • July 18-20 600 Drags 1st Mann Nordin 2nd Travis Nelson 3rd Jen Carlson 4th Ron Kirchner 5th Mark Engnes 800 Drags 1st Aaron Hein 2nd Dan Dressel 3rd David Fischer 4th Ryan Keith 5th Gareth Cummings

Mod. Drags 1st Loren Ward 2nd Lenny Neis 3rd Aaron Hein 4th Jason Houle 5th Jeff Fischer Semi-pro stock 1st Nate Winberg 2nd Brian Laybourn 3rd Ole Baillargeon 4th Jason Meskill 5th Jon Heideman

Semi-pro open 1st Brian Laybourn 2nd Ryan Jurek 3rd Andy Collins 4th Aaron Lundeen 5th Jim Touhy Pro stock 1st Chad Maki 2nd Andy Busse 3rd Ryan Jurek 4th Todd Engstrand 5th Leo Dunlavy

Pro open 1st Howie Steenberg 2nd Andy Busse 3rd Chad Maki 4th Jeff Fischer 5th Dale Lindbeck Jump 1st Jeremy Carlson 2nd Loren Ward

Winberg wins back-to-back semipro stock titles

by Kerri Harter GRANTSBURG – Nate Winberg was all smiles after claiming the semipro stock title for the second year in a row at Grantsburg on Saturday, July 19. “It feels pretty nice going back-to-back years,” said Winberg.

Although he had some sled trouble during Saturday’s race, Winberg still took all firsts in his qualifying heats and quarter– and semifinals, and then topped it off with the final win. “The sled just wasn’t running smooth on Saturday, so we went over everything.

We rejetted today for the first heat and got real close,” Winberg said. “I drew lane two in the finals, so I took the equalizer the first lap. It worked out well.”

Last year’s event put Winberg on a Ski-Doo as a last-minute request by racing partner Leo Dunlavy. A Polaris guy in the past, Winberg took to the Ski-Doo easily and claimed the semipro stock title. “I had sold my Polaris before the season started and wasn’t planning to race, but I couldn’t say no to Leo when he asked me to race his Ski-Doo,”

explained Winberg.

It worked so well for him then, and he has continued racing the sled this year, taking the semi-pro stock title in Ely, Minn., a few weeks ago, and making the finals in Moose Lake, Minn., earlier this year. “I was in the lead but then sank, so I took a sixth place,” recalled Winberg.

With a new job this summer, and a 11/2-year-old to run after, Winberg says he really doesn’t have any time to practice his racing. But that hasn’t appeared to be an issue for him. “We’re heading to Wausau next month,” he said. “I’d really like to thank Leo and Dan (Hoffman) for all their help,” he said of his racing partners.

In a close points chase for year end so far, Winberg could take that title if he finishes the season out right.

Nate Winberg, Boyceville, races to a semipro stock win. – Photo by Kerri Harter

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

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Maki takes pro stock, third in pro open at Grantsburg neck and neck to the first corner and both turned tight and fast. Steenberg managed to get inside Maki and pull even on the straight away. “I knew Howie would be right there and figured Dale (Lindbeck) would pull his trademark “buoy brushing” first corner, so I had a lot on my mind,” said Maki. In the second corner, Maki tried to cut under Steenberg, but “Howie was expecting the move and shut the door on me. In an attempt to miss him and stay afloat, I swerved out of the chop and away form the course. The sled tailwalked for what seemed like eternity with Andy Busse, Jeff Fischer and Mike Memory all whipping by me, missing me by just inches,” recalled Maki. By the time he had recovered, Maki was already far out and close to the equalizer buoys, so he took them right away. In last place at that point, Maki managed to fight his way back up to third in just two laps. “For the next few laps I tried to stay out of trouble, and managed to reel in Andy, who was in second, who was hot in pursuit of Howie,” said Maki. “I started to race as hard as I could again, but having only two laps, I came up just short of catching and passing him. I was very happy with not sinking in the first lap, let alone coming back to finish third!” he added.

by Kerri Harter GRANTSBURG – Chad Maki, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., came to the world championship this year as the youngest racer to ever compete in the pro open class. Son of 12-time world champion Mark Maki, Chad has been continuing the Maki legacy and having a great time doing it.

“Being in my first year of pro open, I was psyched to even make the final, let alone start as the top racer in the IWA’s premier class,” said the young Maki.

“Although I didn’t win, being in my first year and only 17, I had a blast racing with the best in the business. It was very fun and beating the best racers in watercross at times is something that I had always hoped to do since I was a kid watching my dad race.”

Over the past four years in his watercross career, Maki has claimed several class titles and year-end points titles. He has raced his way from semipro classes to pro classes in record time; and left this weekend with a pro stock win and a third in the big show, the pro open, lined up against four past IWA world champions, Howie Steenberg, Andy Busse, Jeff Fisher and Dale Lindbeck and Mike Memory, a top pro racer in the

The first-place winners posed with their trophies. Back row (L to R): Loren Ward, Old Forge, N.Y., mod drags and Nate Winberg, Boyceville, semi-pro stock ovals. Middle row: Howie Steenberg, Inver Grove Heights., Minn., pro open ovals; Chad Maki, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., pro stock and Mann Nordin, Stillwater, Minn., 600 stock drags. Front row: Aaron Hein, Berlin, 800 stock drags and Brian Laybourn, Fairwater, semi-pro open ovals. – Photos by Kerri Harter

Chad Maki tailwalks, pulls out of it and takes a third place in the pro open this past weekend, July 18-20.

– Photo by Kerri Harter

EWA. Pro stock: Maki was confident going into this weekend’s pro stock race after winning in both Moose Lake and Ely, MN earlier this season, but said, “I knew everyone was gunning for me this weekend!” He took firsts in all his qualifying heats right into the quarter- and semifinals. “I put a lot of pressure on myself, knowing it was going to be my race to lose in the final, but I managed to come out of turn one with the lead, the best thing possible. I raced hard and built a comfortable lead in the first few laps, took the equalizer and kept the lead, and then took the smooth line around the course until the end,” said Maki.

Pro open: Maki’s first appearance in the pro open was at the end of the last season at McHenry, Ill., where he went into the finals tied as the number one qualifyer, led around the first corner, but then sank while passing for the lead

in the second corner. He then took a fifth in Moose Lake and a third in Ely earlier this year.

Chad’s one-man pit crew, dad Mark, has said it’s tougher being the parent on the shore watching the race than being the one on the sled. But, after this weekend it’s maybe just a little easier. “Chad impressed me by winning all the qualifying heats to earn lane one in both pro finals. He had to beat Andy Busse and Dale Lindbeck in the qualifiers to do so,” he added.

Maki eased into the finals on Sunday to face the toughest lineup of the weekend. Maki and Steenberg tied for qualifying points and had to draw. “I had never started inside of Howie and likewise never beat him, so I was hoping for lane one and I was lucky enough to get it, much to Howie’s dismay! It was weird being in lane one against the guys I’ve watched since I was little!”

Off the line, Maki and Steenberg were

Chad Maki, No. 413, takes his victory lap after winning the pro stock class at the World Championship Snowmobile Watercross in Grantsburg.

Laybourn makes it look easy Last year rookie of the year, this year top points holder in the semipro open

by Kerri Harter GRANTSBURG – Brian Laybourn of Fairwater, just defies all logic when it comes to newcomers entering the Watercross sport. He entered the circuit the last race of the 2006 season, held in Illinois, with absolutely no experience, simply because, “After watching for three or four years, I just had to try it!” he said. He set up his own sled and jumped in, never having been on the water before. He finished 11th out of 12 drivers in the semipro stock class.

He met Andy Busse last year, and

with Busse’s help and guidance, Laybourn ended the season as rookie of the year, improving dramatically from his debut the year before. “I live about 30 minutes from Berlin, where Andy lives,” said Laybourn.

Busse must have seen potential in the new driver, because this year, his second full year, Laybourn just can’t seem to miss. “He’s won every time he’s gone to the starting line in the semipro open class. Every heat, every race,” said Busse of Laybourn. And, he’s running strong in the semipro stock class as well, finishing second the weekend of July 18-20 at the World Championship Watercross in Grantsburg and running a tight year-end points chase with Nate Brian Laybourn (front) with his mentor and racing partner, Andy Busse, past world champion. – Photo by Kerri Harter

Winberg.

Laybourn was one of six drivers to take all firsts in their qualifying heats entering the quarterfinals of the semipro open ovals on Sunday. As the drivers began being eliminated, Laybourn kept his first-place wins throughout the quarter- and semifinals, and clinched the final win with ease. “I got the hole shot, and never looked back,” Laybourn said with a grin. “After I took the equalizer, I knew I had the race. I was a good half lap ahead so I took it a little easy at that point,” he added.

Laybourn will be heading to Wausau for the next race with Busse and his team in hopes of keeping his streak alive in the semipro open class and to add more points in the semipro stock class points chase.

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Grantsburg Watercross • 2008 • Other activities

Keystone played Friday night, July 18, at the Grantsburg Watercross.

Brat Pack Radio played Saturday night after the fireworks show in Grantsburg, part of the 32nd-annual World Championship Snowmobile Watercross.

Eric Nelson of Grantsburg (R) competes in the wrist wrestling contest at the Grantsburg Watercross.

Photos by Kerri Harter

Wrist wrestling in Grantsburg GRANTSBURG – The World National Wristwrestling Association hosted a regional open wrist wrestling championship during the Grantsburg Watercross Sunday, July 20.

LEFT: John McNally, co-owner of Trailer City, rides the mechan- The top three winners in each weight class ical bull at the watercross event in Grantsburg last weekend, July received trophies and are now eligible to com18-20. RIGHT: Mike (Hummer) Janke, owner of Hummer’s pete in the 2008 World Invitational Rendezvous, takes a turn on the mechanical bull.

Wristwrestling Championships at City Sounds Night Club, Prairie Du Chein on Saturday, Nov. 1. – Brenda Sommerfeld with submitted info Winners are as follows: Junior Boys Division Left-hand Classes Ages 8 & 9 1st Chandler Vander Velden, Grantsburg 2nd Sam Woods, Grantsburg Ages 16 & 17 (uncontested) 1st Isaac Jewell, Siren Right-hand Classes Ages 8 & 9 1st Sam Woods, Grantsburg 2nd Chandler Vander Velden, Grantsburg Ages 16 & 17 1st Isaac Jewell, Siren 2nd Jordan Heinecke, Grantsburg 3rd Ricky Vander Velden, Webster Junior Girls Division Left-hand Class (uncontested) 1st Victoria Robbin, Willow River, Minn.

Men’s Division Left-hand Classes Bantamweight: (uncontested) 1st David Bauer, Hastings, Minn.

Lightweight: 1st Matt Norman, Harris, Minn.

2nd Brandon Kulenkamp, Mora, Minn.

Middleweight: 1st Brandon Metz, Pine City, Minn.

2nd David Bauer, Hastings, Minn.

The fireworks show on Saturday night is always a crowd-pleaser during the Grantsburg Watercross.

Light Heavyweight: 1st David Weimer, Aitkin, Minn.

2nd Brandon Metz, Pine City, Minn.

Super Heavyweight: 1st David Weimer, Aitkin, Minn.

2nd Darrick Weimer, Backus, Minn.

Right-hand Classes Senior: 1st Joe Trumble, Cushing 2nd John Meyer, Siren Bantamweight: 1st David Bauer, Hastings, Minn.

2nd Kyle Heinecke, Grantsburg Featherweight: 1st Shaun Lindus, Grantsburg 2nd David Bauer, Hastings, Minn.

3rd Dylan Metz, Rush City, Minn.

Flyweight: 1st Jeff Swanson, New Hope, Minn.

2nd David Bauer, Hastings, Minn.

3rd Brian Hollan, Milaca, Minn.

Lightweight: 1st Matt Norman, Harris, Minn.

2nd Eric Nelson, Grantsburg 3rd Kyle Spilde, Albert Lea, Minn.

Middleweight: 1st Brandon Metz, Pine City, Minn.

2nd Dusty Lecy, unknown 3rd Zach Graham, Bemidji, Minn.

Light Heavyweight: 1st Sam Carlson, Grantsburg 2nd Keith Still, Grand Rapids, Minn.

3rd David Weimer, Aitkin, Minn.

Super Heavyweight: 1st Tim Huduk, Red Wing, Minn.

2nd Mike Lien, Haiwatha, Iowa 3rd Jeff Kundtson, Albert Lea, Minn.

Women’s Division Right-hand Class: 1st Victoria Robbin, Willow River, Minn.

2nd Brittany Leen, Mora, Minn.

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moments, they would be switching coverage to the wrestling area to watch John Peterson attempt the gold medal in ’76.

“I didn’t need to hear that,” Peterson said, and added that it got on his nerves so much that he broke down in tears.

But it helped him to realize that the pressure was on, and people would be watching from all over the world. He settled his nerves, focused, forgot about the television and stopped worrying about the negative things that could happen. He concentrated on the truth that he was ready for the next match.

Eventually winning the gold medal in '76.

“I just wanted now to go out there and do the very best I can and honor God with the ability he’s given me…That whole attitude and thinking helped me to I think wrestle better,” Peterson said.

Brothers/continued freshman. There were two brothers older than John, who also wrestled, one of them being his brother Tom, who passed down some of his wrestling moves to John when he was in the sixth grade. Altogether, there are five brothers in the Peterson family.

“With five boys in the family we did a lot of tussling around in the haymow and out in the backyard,” John said, and added that he pretty much fell in love with wrestling right away. John also said that he was a bit smaller that his brothers, which also helped.

“I was the little guy, and had plenty of aggression, so it was good for me,” he said.

In his sophomore year, John wrestled at 127 pounds and as a senior wrestled at 154. Ben wrestled at 181 as a senior.

During high school, Ben made it to state in his junior year, and John missed making the state tournament by one match. For both Ben and John, though, their wrestling careers took off over the next several years.

Both tried out for the Olympic team at a regional tournament held at River Falls in 1968. Although John didn’t make it, Ben eventually won the regional tournament and earned a spot at the national tournament in Waterloo, Iowa.

He lost to a wrestler from Iowa State, but impressed the Iowa State coach, and was eventually offered a scholarship to join the team. Gable was also part of the Iowa State team during that time, and over the next four years, Iowa State would earn three national titles.

“I learned a lot of good stuff in the summertime training,” John said of Ben’s return from the Div. 1 Iowa State school.

“As we were shingling houses we would come home, and drill a couple of nights a week in our backyard on an old mat,” John said.

As Ben savored success at Iowa State, John was also wrestling in college at a high level at UW-Stout. While there he was an NAIA-All American and wrestled his way to three conference titles.

Then, in 1971, after taking third in a national AAU tournament, Ben was invited to the Pan-Am training camp in Tampa Bay, Fla. He asked the coach if John could join him, and after getting approval, John went with his brother to train at the Pan-Am training camp, amidst some extremely hot and humid conditions, but it was a big turning point for John.

“That’s when I really started to excel,”

R

The hug seen round the world. Ben Peterson (L) hugs his brother John in the 1972 Olympic Games at Munich, Germany. Moments after John won the silver, Ben took the gold medal on the adjacent mat. "It was one of those unbelievably special Olympic moments," John said. - Photos courtesy of John Peterson he said.

After training with Ben and Gable during the Pan-Am games, John eventually wrestled at the World Team trials in Annapolis, Md., where he made the world team. It earned him a chance to wrestle in Sophia, Bulgaria, for the world championships. He admitted that he didn’t do well, but after coming back, Gable invited him to live with him at his apartment at Iowa State, and train for the ‘72 Olympic Games.

“He liked the way I worked out, and wanted to have me as one of his workout partners,” John said.

mat from his own match.

“It was one of those unbelievably special Olympic moments,” Peterson said.

Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 1976 Ironically, the Soviet wrestler who defeated John for the gold in 1972 moved up a weight class, and went on to defeat Ben for the gold medal.

“We lost to the same wrestler,” Peterson said.

But perhaps the more memorable moment for John came just prior to his gold medal match, when commentator Jim McKay, most famous for his role on the popular sports program “Wide World of Sports,” came on a TV monitor as John entered the wrestling area after warmups.

McKay announced that in a few

Munich, Germany, 1972 There are several events, stories and moments leading up to, and during the ‘72 Olympics, but one that stands out in John’s mind is the final match, just after he took the silver medal and Ben took gold.

Ben, wrestling as a light heavyweight, had to beat a wrestler from Bulgaria by pin for the gold, and John had to beat out an East German wrestler for silver.

Halfway through John’s middle-heavyweight match against the wrestler from East Germany, Ben took to the mat against the Bulgarian. During his match, John wondered if Ben would be able to pin his opponent.

“But of course I couldn’t look, I had to concentrate on mine,” John said.

As the referee signaled John as the silver medalist, he looked over to see his brother, with the Bulgarian on his back.

The referee signaled the fall that made Ben an Olympic champion, and John didn’t even have time to walk off the

Camp of Champs and beyond In 1977 Ben and John founded Camp of Champs, which has wrestling facilities in Juneau, Westboro and Watertown, where Ben currently lives.

John resides in the Comstock area, but lived in Austria from 1981 until 1991.

Ben works full time with Camp of Champs, writes articles and speaks to youth throughout the winter. John helps out with Camp of Champs, but works with Athletes in Action and Campus Crusade for Christ. He spends a lot of time at the University of Minnesota and Augsburg College during the wrestling season.

The attitude that John and Ben carried over from their Olympic experiences in 1976, are a big part of what they try to teach the kids at the Camp of Champs.

He and Ben have been teaching kids the important things that helped to give them success at the level they were able to reach. They teach mental toughness and technique, but, Bible study and principles that are timeless with God’s word.

For more information on the Camp of Champs visit www.campofchamps.org.

John Peterson (L) works with youth during the Camp of Champs wrestling camp, which was founded by John and Ben Peterson in 1977.

2008 Summer Olympic athletes with ties to Wisconsin and Minnesota Name

John Peterson took the top of the podium after winning gold in the 1976 Olympic Games.

Seimon Augustus Sally Barkow Lindsey Berg Ali Bernard Micah Boyd Jake Deitchler Garrett Weber-Gale Kara Goucher Morgan Hamm `Paul Hamm Becky Holder Beau Hoopman Megan Kalmoe Beezie Madden Chellsie Memmel Michael Redd Matt Schnobrich Carrie Tollefson

Sport

*Information from www.nbcolympics.com

Basketball Sailing Volleyball Wrestling Rowing Wrestling Swimming Track & Field Gymnastics Gymnastics Equestrian Rowing Rowing Equestrian Gymnastics Basketball Rowing Track & Field

Event

Women’s Yngling Women’s Women’s freestyle Men’s eight Greco-Roman Several events 10,000M Men’s Men’s Eventing Men’s eight Women’s double sculls Show jumping Women’s Men’s Men’s eight 1,500M

Hometown

Baton Rouge, La. Waukesah, Wis. Honolulu, Hawaii New Ulm, Minn.

St. Paul, Minn.

Ramsey, Minn.

Fox Point, Wis. Duluth, Minn.

Waukesha, Wis. Waukesha, Wis. Mendota Heights, Minn.

Plymouth, Wis. St. Croix Falls, Wis. Mequon, Wis. West Allis, Wis. Columbus, Ohio St. Paul, Minn.

Dawson, Minn.

Residence

Minneapolis, Minn.

Nashotah, Wis. Minneapolis, Minn.

New Ulm, Minn.

Princeton, N.J. Annoka, Minn.

Austin, Texas Portland, Ore. Columbus, Ohio Columbus, Ohio Hugo, Minn.

Princeton, N.J. Princeon, N.J. Cazennovia, N.Y. West Allis, Wis. Milwaukee, Wis. Philadelphia, Pa. St. Paul, Minn.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

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Blue A’s clinch Northern Division End season with win and tie over Amery St. Croix Falls 13, Amery 4

by Marty Seeger AMERY – After taking two wins over Luck on Thursday, July 17, and taking a win and a tie over Amery on Monday, July 21, the St. Croix Falls Blue A’s finished with an 18-9-2 record. The season record was good enough for the team to lay claim as the Northern Division champions of the St. Croix Valley Legion League. Coach Scott Lindholm explained that he’s never been a part of a team that could have had a chance to win every game played this season. In the nine games lost, the Blue A’s lost by a total of 11 runs.

“Overall it was a pretty successful year,” Lindholm said.

In their game against Amery on Monday Nick Johnson went 2-3 with two triples, three RBIs and he scored three times. Gus Koecher went 2-3 with an RBI and three runs scored. Will Ball went 2-3 as well with three RBIs and scored twice.

There were three different pitchers in each inning for the Blue A’s, but Sam Schmidt picked up his first win of the season. The Blue A’s rolled easily in the 13-4 win. Lindholm said his team was

St. Croix Falls Matt Vold makes a catch at short stop during one of the Blue A’s previous games. – File photo by Marty Seeger able to capitalize on the win with the help of a few passed balls and errors by the Amery squad, but the Blue A’s man-

aged to have another great evening of hitting.

St. Croix Falls 4, Amery 4 AMERY – The second game of the evening in Amery resulted in a 4-4 tie, and not because of rainy weather.

Coach Scott Lindholm said the game was called because it became too dark to finish. He said there was at least a 20minute delay after the left fielder was hit in the face by a baseball when he dove for a fly ball. An ambulance and the fire department were called onto the scene to assist the fallen player.

Lindholm believed that the player suffered a broken nose.

Nick Johnson had another great game going 2-3 with three RBIs and an important two-out double. Sam Schmidt went 2-2 with a two run double to help the Blue A’s get back in the game. Ben Anderson pitched the second game for St. Croix Falls, allowing just two earned runs, one walk, six hits and six strikeouts.

“He pitched really well,” said Lindholm, but added that the defense produced four errors. The tie game was finally cancelled as light faded.

On Saturday, July 26, the St. Croix River Bandits will be taking on the St. Croix Falls Blue A’s Legion baseball team to determine the best baseball team in St. Croix Falls. The game is looking to be a crowd-pleaser during the Polk County Fair weekend. The game is scheduled to start at 1 p.m.

Blue A’s nab two wins over Luck er’s choice.

The Blue A’s quickly took back the lead in their first at bat after Will Ball, with two outs, smashed a stand up double down the right field line for two RBIs. Sam Schmidt scored Ball on an RBI single to give St. Croix Falls a 3-1 lead. The Blue A’s picked up another run in the second inning when Nick Johnson hit an RBI single, making it a 41 game.

Luck got their second run of the game in the third inning with smart base running from Jamison Gross, who stole second and third after drawing a walk.

Gross eventually scored on a close play at the plate, but it would be all Luck could get as the Blue A’s continued to add more runs.

Errors on Luck in the third inning gave the Saints a pair of runs, and a sacrifice fly from Gus Koecher made it a 72 score for the Blue A’s and the win.

Larcom throws shutout in first game St. Croix Falls 5, Luck 0

by Marty Seeger ST. CROIX FALLS – The Blue A’s crept closer to the end of the season by taking a pair of wins over the Luck Legion Thursday, July 17. The first game of the three was scheduled to be a makeup game with St. Croix Falls up 62 in the top of the fourth inning, but that game was cancelled due to the lack of Luck players in the lineup. Despite having just nine players on the Luck lineup, the teams played the scheduled five inning games.

The Blue A’s had Josh Larcom on the mound for the first game and quickly gave him a four-run cushion to work with, scoring four runs after two comBlue A’s Josh Larcom pitches a shut out against Luck in the first game of doubleheader on Thursday, July 17. – Photos by Marty Seeger

Luck fell to the St. Croix Falls Blue A’s during both games Thursday, July 17.

plete innings. But with Larcom notching seven strikeouts, one walk and allowing just three hits, he didn’t need much run support at all.

St. Croix Falls managed to get their first four runs in the first and second innings, but Luck threatened the Blue A’s lead in the top of the third inning when Connery Johnson led the inning off with a single, and No .25 was hit by a pitch. Jamison Gross hit a single to left field and loaded the bases with nobody out. But Larcom quickly rebounded, fanning the next batter, and retiring the next two Luck batters on a fly out and strikeout to end the inning without any damage.

The Blue A’s got another run in the fourth inning after Sam Schmidt drew a leadoff walk. Schmidt eventually stole second and third, and got home on a wild pitch. Nick Johnson singled in the inning, but Luck quickly ended it with a

6-4-3 double play. Larcom remained in the game for the final inning and struck out a pair of Luck batters to help win the game for the Blue A’s.

Blue A’s coach Scott Lindholm said every player contributed to the win, but Johnson was one of the main contributors of the evening.

“Nick Johnson was outstanding with the bat and the legs,” Lindholm said.

Johnson had three bunt singles and went 5-5 overall, with two walks and three runs scored.

St. Croix Falls 7, Luck 2 ST. CROIX FALLS – Luck managed to pick up the first run of the second game Thursday evening after Mitch Larson reached first on a walk followed by a base hit by Logan Hacker. Both runners quickly got into scoring position on a throwing error by the Blue A’s. Collin Svoboda picked up the RBI on a field-

Luck’s second baseman nabs a nice catch during their game against St. Croix Falls.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

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SCRMC Golf Classic surpasses $100,000 with ST. CROIX FALLS – RiverBank Insurance Center’s John Gauper recently presented proceeds from the eighthannual golf classic—a check for $15,615—to St. Croix Regional Medical Center‘s CEO, Lenny Libis. “We were very excited that this year’s golf classic, our eighth, brought us to $104,269 in total event proceeds,” said Gauper. “As always, registrations filled out quickly, confirming that this tournament has become an important, anticipated and much enjoyed area event. The golf classic greatly benefits patients throughout the medical center’s service area,” he continued, “and we’re pleased to be the sponsor.”

On behalf of the medical center, Sandy Williams, SCRMC director of development and marketing, expressed her gratitude to Gauper and to his staff for their outstanding support and hard work. “We certainly want to thank the Frederic Golf Course staff, Joan Spencer, manager, and their board members for providing wonderful service and a course in excellent condition,” said Williams.

“Without the generous support of the corporate and hole sponsors and team

RiverBank Insurance Center’s John Gauper recently presented the eighthannual golf classic proceeds—a check for $15,277—to St. Croix Regional Medical Center‘s CFO, John Tremble (at right). Pictured (L to R) are Sarah Heintz and Pam Stratmoen of the RiverBank Insurance Center; Sandy Williams, SCRMC’s director of development, education and marketing; John Gauper, tournament sponsor who heads The RiverBank Insurance Center and John Tremble, CFO and VP of fiscal services. – Photo submitted

players who contributed to this fundraiser, too,” noted Williams, “the tremendous success we’ve achieved simply wouldn’t have been possible.

We’re also very proud to mark the classic’s eighth year.” Everyone appeared to enjoy the day and especially the prime rib dinner catered by Beth LeMieux. Williams went on to point out that the event’s real winners are “all the people in our community who use the medical center. The funds we raised will purchase new digital radiography equipment which is very important for our patients.”

Sponsored by The Riverbank Insurance Center in partnership with the St. Croix Valley Healthcare Foundation, the classic offered a morning nine-hole scramble and an afternoon 18-hole tournament. The entry fee provided golf cart rental, complimentary use of the driving range, awards and lunch or a prime rib dinner. Both tournament events included numerous course games and hole-in-one contests to win cars, courtesy of Larsen Auto and Johnson Motors. – submitted

Show Down in Yo-Yo Town tractor pull held in Luck LUCK – The Luck FFA Alumni held their secondannual Show Down in Yo-Yo Town tractor pull on Sunday, July 20, during the Luck Community Clubhosted Lucky Days.

Tractor pull placings

Place Name City from Tractor 4,500-lb. farm stock 1st Cory Sundby Frederic Farmall M 2nd Brian Carlson Hugo, Minn.

Oliver 88 3rd Nick Rothe Almelund, Minn. AC WC 4,500-lb. hobby stock 1st Rod Mondor Forest Lake, Minn. AC WC 2nd Cory Sundby Frederic Farmall M 5,500-lb. farm stock 1st Larry Wright Luck Leyland 272 2nd Kurt Johnson Cedar, Minn.

Moline U 3rd Dustin Matzke Ellsworth Oliver 770 7,000-lb. farm stock 1st Mike Holub Rice Lake AC 6070 2nd Ashley Wilcoxson River Falls JD 4000 3rd Joey Sherman Roberts JD 3020 9,500-lb. farm stock 1st Chad Schullo Cumberland AC 190 2nd Nick Berglund Amery JD 4000 3rd Mike Holub Rice Lake AC 6070 11,000-lb. farm stock 1st Bill Delander Roberts JD 4430 2nd Bob Cherney Rice Lake JD 4430 3rd Cody Borresen Luck Case 1175 13,000-lb. farm stock 1st Kelly Johnson Luck Case 1175 2nd Bob Cherney Rice Lake JD 4430 3rd Chad Schullo Cumberland AC 220

Dan Wohlk of Almena took second place in the 7,500-pound super stock with his John Deere 8520. – Photos submitted

15,000-lb. farm stock 1st Adam Delander 2nd Jay Thompson 5,500-lb. modified 1st Brad Adolphson 6,500-lb. modified Brad Adolphson 1st 6,000-lb. super stock 1st Jay Lerbs 2nd Mark Welsh 7,500-lb. super stock 1st Nate Schultz 2nd Dan Wohlk 3rd Jay Lerbs 9,500-lb. super stock 1st Mike Olson 2nd Nate Schultz 3rd Eric Most 10,500-lb. super stock 1st Travis Most 2nd Mike Olson 3rd Bill Delander

Truck pull placings

Roberts St. Croix Falls

JD 4440 Case 1570

Grantsburg

Farmall

Grantsburg

Farmall

St. Paul, Minn.

North Br., Minn.

AC 180 Ford 8600

New Richmond Almena St. Paul, Minn.

IH 1066 JD 8520 AC 180

Clayton New Richmond Prescott

IH 1066 I 1066 Oliver 2255

Prescott Clayton Roberts

Oliver 2255 IH 1066 JD 4430

Place Name City from 6,200-lb. stock 1st Derek Demarce River Falls 2nd Jon Humphrey Turtle Lake 3rd Cody SchumacherBaldwin 5,500-lb. modified 1st Rob Bucholtz Luck S10 2nd Derek Demarce River Falls 3rd Sherman Donath Unknown

8,000-lb. diesel open 1st Galen Lange 2nd Tammy Mundt 3rd Eric Wehling

Afton, Minn.

Grant, Minn.

Clear Lake

1995 Dodge 1994 Dodge 1995 Dodge

Truck 1983 Chevrolet 1979 Chevrolet 1983 Chevrolet 1991

Chevy

1983 Chevrolet 1979 Chevrolet

Mark Welsh of North Branch, Minn., took second place in the 6,000-pound super stock division with a Ford 8600.

Galen Lange of Afton, Minn., took first in the 8,000-pound diesel open truck class with his 1995 Dodge.

Travis Most of Prescott with his Oliver 2255 that won him first place in the 10,500-pound super stock. The tractor and truck pull took place on Sunday, July 20, during Lucky Days.

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Lund’s fast-pitch team exits MMFL State Tournament LAKEVILLE, Minn. – Overconfidence and a strategy change quickly brought Michelle Lund and the Forest Lake, Minn. U16s drive for a championship in the MMFL State Tournament to an end.

In their first game of this double-elimination tournament, Forest Lake was shut out by Burnsville, 4-0. Two errors and missed defensive assignments by Forest Lake in the fourth inning allowed Burnsville to push three runs across. Lund pitched seven innings, giving up eight hits, two earned runs, three strikeouts and four walks.

Their second game immediately followed the Burnsville game. This one was against Centennial, a team Forest Lake had beaten five times, Lund being the winning pitcher in three of those games. Forest Lake started their number three pitcher for this 70-minute time-limit game.

Forest Lake had fallen behind, 4-1, having given out six walks before Lund

entered the game in the fifth inning with two runners on, no outs and only 17 minutes left in the game. The pitching strategy at this point of the game had to change to quickly get batters out by forcing them to hit the first pitch and having the defense make a play for the out.

Unfortunately, a Centennial batter hit the ball into the left field gap for a double to bring in the final two runs in a 61 loss for Forest Lake. Lund pitched one and two-thirds innings allowing two hits, one run and three strikeouts. – submitted Grantsburg’s Michelle Lund pitched for the Forest Lake, Minn.

U16 team during the MMFL State Tournament. The Forest Lake team lost two games, taking them out of the tournament. – Photo submitted

BUZZ-saw

by Terry Lehnertz ST. CROIX FALLS – After suffering through an agonizing seventh rainout of the season on July 11, Kopellah Speedway was back in action last Friday in hot and humid weather.

Several familiar faces, along with one new face, graced the Speedway’s Victory Lane before the night was over.

WISSOTA Modified pilot Kevin “Buzzy” Adams made the short trip west from his Cameron, race shop to Kopellah Speedway for the the sixth time this summer. And for the sixth time, he made the trip back home with the winner’s check. Outside polestarter Mike Kelley Jr. paced the field for the opening lap, but a slight push in turn two, on lap two was all the opening Adams would need. Adams shot underneath Kelley and from there, the rout was on. While Adams was walking away, the battle for second was another Kopellah dandy. Third in the season-long points chase coming into the night, Tim VanMeter was on Kelley’s rear bumper by lap five. As the laps ticked off, Adams would scoot further into the night while VanMeter would try various strategies to steal the runner-up spot from Kelley. A pair of late-race cautions didn’t help, as each restart saw Kelley maintain his firm grip on the position. Finally, with just two lap remaining, VanMeter made his charge and made it stick. Adams finished several car lengths out front and VanMeter held off Kelley for second.

Current track points leader Mike Mueller came home in fourth place ahead of Scott Splittstoesser.

On a night that saw a handful of runaway winners, the tightest battle for the win occurred in the WISSOTA Amsoil Dirt Track Series Street Stock division.

Renewing their championship battle from one year ago, Chanda Fjorden Nord and Jeff Heintz spent the final 16 laps of their 20-lap main event in a real nail-biter. Fjorden Nord dashed to the point in front of pole-starter Trisha Nyren, who could only hold off defending track champion Heintz for three laps before settling into third. On a night that had current WISSOTA national points leader Allen Gessell Jr. on hand, Nyren ran one of her best races of the season in maintaining a top three spot. Adam Soltis, a consistent top-five runner on Sunday nights at Eagle Valley Speedway in Jim Falls, and Gessell were reduced to battling it out for fourth-place honors while Nyren ran smooth and consistent in third. In the battle up front, Heintz emptied his

bag of tricks, trying a multitude of lines in an effort to pass Fjorden Nord for the win, but the Luck, pilot countered every move with a steady wheel and an easy throttle. The checkers waved with Heintz right on Fjorden Nord’s bumper, as Fjorden Nord nabbed her third Kopellah feature win of the season, and fifth overall. With Nyren third, Soltis eventually won out in the battle with Gessell for fourth.

The runaway theme returned for the WISSOTA Super Stocks.

Luke Strandlund led the opening four circuits from his outside row-one starting position. But with “Fred the Ford” back-up power still under the hood of Strandlund’s No. 26x, the Mora Minn., hot shoe was going to need some help from lady luck. The luck ran out on lap five as Cory Davis assumed the point before dropping out just one lap later.

From there, defending track champion Dan Gullikson took over. Once out front, Gullikson left little doubt in what was an eventual win. But most of the crowd had their eyes glued to the duel that played out over countless laps for second place. Strandlund and his reserve motor spent the remainder of the race in a slug fest with John Remington for runner-up honors.

Through turns one, two and three, Strandlund would build a precarious two to three-car-length advantage over Remington. Then, in turn four, the advantage would completely disappear as the duo came out of turn four in a dead heat on every lap – only to have Strandlund claw back to a more comfortable margin, just to have it evaporate again in turn four. For over a dozen laps the pair kept the crowd on the edge of their seats, and in the end, ol’ Fred brought Strandlund home in second, just barely ahead of Remington.

Gullikson’s victory was his third of the season at Kopellah Speedway and seventh overall in WISSOTA Amsoil Dirt Track Series competition.

The WISSOTA features got off to a rather blue start, or more accurately yellow, as the Midwest Modified main event was slowed by six caution flags.

While not as dominant as a few other feature winners, Vince Corbin took his new-to-him car from the outside of the front row and into the early lead. After a lap one caution eliminated Dan Wheeler, John Remington moved up to Wheeler’s third-row spot on the restart and jumped up to the second position after only one lap. Through all of the cautions, Corbin’s new ride was strong enough to hold down the point, while

things were fast and furious behind him. Along with Remington, rookies Josh Bazey and Sampson Haseltine, Tim Swanson, Vernon Arnt and Mike Haseltine, as well as heat-race winners Bryce Johnson and Clayton Wagamon, all employed a wide array of racing lines battling for the next six finishing positions. After the final yellow flag preceding a green-white-checkered finish, Corbin would lead every lap in picking up his second feature win of the season. Corbin was all smiles in the pits afterwards, elated with how the “new” car was working. “This is only our second night out with this car,” noted the grinning victor, “she’s not real pretty, but she goes!” Remington bested Sampson Haseltine at the line for second with Johnson coming home fourth.

Running a clean race paid off handsomely for a pair of seventh row starters. Vernon Arnt took the green flag 14th on the starting grid and cracked the top five at the finish, and his seventh-row starting mate, Corey Fogleson had the best run of his rookie campaign, finishing in sixth place.

The Kopellah Pure Stocks took to the track for their main event with Rodney Jacobson and Jesse Lutgen pacing the field. At the drop of the green, thirdrow starter Steven Johnson bolted into the lead through the opening set of turns. David Leaf was the early runnerup while the fourth-row starters Mike Dyrdahl and Danny Richards worked their way towards the front. Dyrdahl slipped past Johnson to take over the lead on lap six, with Richards following suit on the next circuit. Just one lap later, Richards worked around Dyrdahl and led the remaining laps. Richards, however, failed to report immediately to the scales after the race and was subsequently disqualified, handing the win to Dyrdahl. The revamped finishing order had Johnson finishing second and Steve Baker in third. Rookies Ben Johnson and David Leaf rounded out the top five.

The only group able to complete their feature without a caution was the Kopellah Hornets. Tagging along with big brother Allen Jr., Nate Gessell made just his second visit of the season to Kopellah Speedway a worthwhile trip.

Taking off from the outside of the front row, Gessell jumped out to the early lead with pressure from fourth-starting Alec Nesbit. Mechanical gremlins forced Nesbit to retire on lap six, giving the task of chasing down Gessell to Doug Fick. Fick, behind the wheel of Kevin Bradwell’s No. 95 for the

evening, had to also contend with the charging hotrod of Jacob Christiansen.

Christiansen and Fick dueled while Gessell ran smooth and alone out front, and with just two laps remaining, Christiansen moved up to second in lapped traffic. At the checkers it was Gessell who was the only nonrepeat winner of the evening, ahead of Christiansen, Fick, Tyler English and Andy Kruse.

Racing action resumes this Friday night, July 25, with classic car night.

The Northern Vintage Stockcar Racers will be on hand for their second visit of the season. Dave Lepper and Ken Varing were the feature winners during the club’s first visit to the Speedway last May, and both drivers are scheduled to be on hand to defend their titles. More information on the Northern Vintage Racers is available on the Web at www.northernvintageracers.com.

Racing is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m., for race day weather updates, current point standing and directions to the speedway, please visit the track’s Web site at www.kopellahspeedway.net.

Race Summary: Hornets, feature: Nate Gessell, Jacob Christensen, Doug Fick, Tyler English, Andy Kruse, Pamela Lutgen, Alec Nesbit and Damon Stusek.

Pure stocks, feature: Michael Dyrdahl, Steven Johnson, Steve Baker, Ben Johnson, David Leaf, David Swearingen, Jesse Lutgen, Fabian Jackson, Thomas Lutgen, Rodney Jacobson and Danny Richards.

WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds, feature: Vince Corbin, John Remington, Sampson Haseltine, Bryce Johnson, Vernon Arnt, Corey Fogleson, Rob Caho Jr., Kyle Matuska, Clayton Wagamon, Jake Miller, Michael Haseltine, Tim Swanson, Josh Bazey, Doug Merrill, Mike Gibson and Dan Wheeler.

WISSOTA Street Stocks, feature: Chanda Fjorden Nord, Jeff Heintz, Trisha Nyren, Adam Soltis, Allen Gessell, Robert Lowe, Kyle Howland, Steve Lowe and Tim Baxter.

WISSOTA Super Stocks, feature: Dan Gullikson, Luke Strandlund, John Remington, Greg Alling, Cory Davis and Tim Baxter.

WISSOTA Modifieds, feature: Kevin Adams, Tim Van Meter, Mike Kelly Jr., Mike Mueller, Scott Splittstoesser, Marc Johnson, Tony Gates, Mike Raboin, James Cimfl, Jason Schill and Shawn Kelley.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

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19 Days Until Practice The WIAA has designated Aug. 11 as the earliestallowed day for 2008 high school football practice.

Most area teams will kick off their seasons on Aug. 28 or 29. Here are the opening night matchups for local schools: Siren ver- THE SPORTS sus Bruce, Unity at Spooner, Amery at Grantsburg, Luck at Prairie Farm, St. Croix Falls at Osceola and Frederic at B i r c h w o o d - We y e r h a e u s e r.

(Exhaustive research failed to find Webster’s opening-night opponent).

It will be a tall order for the Saints, but its nice to see them rekindling their rivalry with their neighbors downriver. Most experts (including the Swami) expect Frederic to once again challenge for the conference crown that has eluded them since 1968. If you’re looking ahead, the Vikings–who are returning numerous veteran stalwarts including David Harlander, Cody Gruel, Brent Crandell and Ian Anderson–will face Luke Gronning and the Shell Lake Lakers on Oct. 23 in Frederic.

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Life is But a Dream Spies working the Minneapolis beat report that the offspring of feisty 1970s Frederic High School offensive tackle Mike Ronningen is competing for the U of M’s crew team. Ian Ronningen, a graduate of Chaska High School, Chaska, Minn., is a member of the rowing unit, which competes at regattas throughout the U.S. Though officially a men’s club sport, the U of M crew team has existed for over 50 years. The youthful Ronningen is the nephew of 1960s FHS grad Dr. Reg Ronningen whose big-game-hunting exploits have been well-chronicled in this space.

Mr. Cat Strikes Again Lightning has struck twice for former Grantsburg baseballer Jens Anderson. Back in May, the ex-Pirate first baseman landed a dandy catfish from an undisclosed area lake. That fish tipped the scales at 19 pounds.

Less than two months later, the youthful outdoorsman hauled in an 18-pound whiskered one. Despite the catfish’s reputation as great table fare, Anderson released both lunkers.

Research shows that those fish were likely channel catfish, which are primarily a river fish. In fact, the state record was caught in the Wisconsin River back in 1962. That creature weighed in at a hefty 44 pounds.

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Time to Brood Those who ply the rural byways are reporting ample sightings of pheasant and wild turkey chicks.

Look for the hen turkeys to soon bring their poults out into newly hayed fields where the youngsters will feast on their primary fodder of insects. Once again Wisconsin will offer a two-rooster limit on pheasants this fall, commencing after the opening weekend of Oct. 18 and 19 when one rooster is allowed. We’re definitely in the midst of the return to the good old days for Northwest Wisconsin pheasant hunters.

Mushroom Action Slow Despite some nice, timely rains, the Wisconsin wild mushroom crop seems to be in a state of limbo for the time being. Nevertheless, after he turned off the radio when he realized the Twins were about to get hammered by the Yankees, one local novice mycologist had a nice find of coral fungi (clavicarona pyxidata) Monday evening. This small variety of fungus grows on decayed logs and closely resembles the coral that grows on the ocean floor. This spring was a good one for harvesting the coveted oyster mushroom (pleurotus ostreatus) and there have been reports that some productive specimens of chicken of the woods (Laetiporus sulphureus) have been added to area larders as well. “I don’t

R

T

S

care what anyone says. If hunting animals can be called a sport, then so too can hunting mushrooms”, said a defensive and slightly cantankerous local yokel as he enjoyed some coral fungi with his venison steak stir-fry.

Karsten Grabs Dragon Reins Not many coaches are able to dedicate themselves to a basketball program from top to bottom to the extent Siren’s tireless Ryan Karsten has over the past few years. So few were surprised when Karsten was named as the successor to Jon Ruud at the helm of the SHS girls varsity program. (Ruud will be coaching the Dragon boys varsity) There were rumors afoot that 300-win exFrederic and Siren coach Duane Wisse might ride in on a white steed and return to the Dragon bench, but obviously such idle banter died when Karsten was given the nod. Can Karsten pick up where Ruud left off and lead the Dragons to their third consecutive conference title in 200809? (Note: In reference to the paragraph above this one, note that Jon Ruud is also a dedicated mushroomgatherer who specializes in morels) Due to space issues, trivia will....This is not a typographical error.

John Ryan may be reached at jmr202@yahoo.com

Rice Lake Women’s Fast-pitch League features Unity, Amery RICE LAKE – Cameron and the Amery Warriors kept their perfect records intact, and remained tied atop the standings of the Rice Lake Women’s Fast-pitch League following Round 4 games.

The Cameron women raced to an 1810 win over Top of the Ladder Construction, as Dani Steward recorded nine strikeouts in getting the pitching victory over Kelsey Kraczek. Rachel Gifford led the way offensively, batting

3 for 5, with a pair of doubles. For Top of the Ladder, Kraczek was 3 for 4, with two doubles, and Sam Winkler was 2 for 4, with a home run and triple.

Amery’s victory was via the forfeit route, 7-0 over the previously unbeaten Unity Eagles.

Tire City suffered its first setback of the season as Barron rallied for three seventh-inning runs to squeak out an 11-10 win. Barron evened its record at 22. For Barron, Holly Knutson had three

LEADER S P O R T S S C O R E B O A R D INDEPENDENT BASEBALL Southwest Group Teams Grantsburg Honkers Siren Steelers Webster Orioles

Coming up

Sunday, July 27 1 p.m.

Spooner at Grantsburg Siren at Cumberland Hornets at Webster

St. Croix Valley

Team St. Croix River Bandits

Overall 7-10

Scores

Saturday, July 19 Osceola 11, Bandits 6 Sunday, July 20 Bandits 9, New Richmond 4

Coming up

Friday, July 25 7:30 p.m. Bandits at Menomonie Saturday, July 26 1 p.m.

Bandits vs. Blue As at SCF High School Wednesday, July 30 7 p.m.

Bandits at Osceola

SLOW-PITCH SOFTBALL

Siren Ballpark Women’s League

Team Chell Trucking/The Beehive Skol Bar Wizards Coyland Creek Smith Family Eye Care H Town Girls Mauer Construction

Overall 7-0 6-2 4-3 4-4 4-4 1-7 1-6

Scores

Monday, July 21 Skol Bar 9, Wizards 7 Smith Family Eye Care 18, H Town Girls 0 Chell Trucking/The Beehive 18, Coyland Creek 2

trips in four at bats, winning pitcher, Kari Knutson had a triple and single and Michelle Thompson a double. For Tire City, both Kallie Hartwig and losing pitcher, Cassy Stearns had threebaggers.

Brown’s Soil Testing posted their first win of the season, a 13-2 triumph over still winless Conseco Insurance. Megan Willger struck out 14 opposing hitters, while walking just one, to gain the pitching win over Shannon Halverson.

Willger was 3 for 3, with a triple for Brown’s and Steph Schmidt had a threerun homer. Danielle Kahl had Conseco’s

only hit, that of the one-base variety.

Also breaking into the win column was Rice Lake Weighing Systems, 13-7 victors over Birchwood. The loss pushed Birchwood’s record to 0-4.

Leading the paced Weighting Systems offense with three hits in five official atbats, Molly Rae was 3 for 5, with a double, and Anna Klonowski had a double as well. Corey Birdstill was 2 for 3 for Birchwood. Jennique Demers, with six strikeouts in six innings of work, was the winning pitcher, while Kellee Scott took the loss. – submitted

Watercross points winners

Falun Church League

Team Falun Churches Siren Assembly Calvary Covenant Siren Covenant/Bethany Webster Baptist Trade Lake Baptist Living Hope/Grace Faith Lutheran West Sweden/Zion Lutheran Frederic Free Trade River Free

Overall 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-2 6-2 5-2 2-6 2-6 2-5 1-7 0-8

Scores

Thursday, July 17 Siren Assembly 23, Calvary Covenant 10 West Sweden/Zion Lutheran 13, Living Hope/Grace 8 Webster Baptist 23, Frederic Free 12 Falun Churches 28, Frederic Free 9 Friday, July 18 Trade Lake Baptist 20, Trade River Free 11 Siren Covenant/Bethany 28, Faith Lutheran 2

Siren Ballpark Men’s League

Team Sundown Chell Well Church League Team Hole in the Wall Fur, Fins & Feathers Pour House 1 Century 21 Pour House 2 Gjonnes Construction Da Crew

Overall 10-0 8-2 6-4 6-3 5-5 5-3 4-6 2-7 1-8 0-9

Scores

Wednesday, July 16 Chell Well 16, Century 21 8 Sundown 22, Da Crew 2 Hole in the Wall 22, Gjonnes Construction 0 Church League Team 13, Fur, Fins & Feathers 12 Century 21 18, Fur, Fins & Feathers 11

Major sponsor of both the Grantsburg World Champion and Frederic watercrosses, Grand Casino puts up a $1,000 prize to the top points winner between the two races in the pro class and $500 in the semi-pro class. Dale Lindbeck, Stacy, Minn., (pictured) won the pro class and Oliver Baillargeon, Frederic, won the semi-pro class award. – Photo by Kerri Harter.

O UTDOORS

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

INTER! COUNTY LEADER

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

Polk County Kinship kids learn to shoot

Fourteen kids from the Polk County Kinship participated in the secondannual event held at the Balsam Lake Rod and Gun Club Friday, July 18, including Tiffany Truttman, who learned rifle shooting from Polk County Sportsmen Club Member Wally Trudeau.

Kinship mentor Ted Gonsowski (L) taught Jason Reitz how to load and shoot a muzzleloader. Kinship kids learned about firearm safety with the help of DNR wardens. Five shooting stations were set up, which included trap shooting, .22 centerfire and more.

The Kinship shooting event was sponsored by The Polk County Sportsmen's Club, along with help from the Balsam Lake Rod and Gun Club, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, WI DNR and Amery Archery Club.

There's room in the cooler

As of late, however, it seems that the summer months, and weekends in particular, have been especially busy, so fishing has taken the wayside a bit.

Family time, weddings and work in general seem to take a big portion of the summer away, as is the case for most anyone. It’s difficult to find the time the days to get out and fish, and as a rule I try to venture out at least once a week.

In the meantime, I’ve been able to loose a few arrows over the past few weeks, which keeps me somewhat connected to the outdoors.

A short time ago I was able to sneak out and log a few hours in the boat, which I’m happy to report actually floats, and has been for about two months now. I even recently received the registration stickers in the mail. So now the next time the sheriff questions my stickers, I no longer have to pull out the slip of paper stating that I’ve already sent in for the renewal stickers.

Heck, the boat motor even runs like a champ. But if you see a plume of bluish-looking smoke on the lake, and a boat slowly floating away from the

scene, there’s a good chance that it’s me. Don’t worry, though, I’m not on fire, and neither is the lake. It’s probably just that the oil/gas ratio is a little on the oil side, yet it seems to be keeping the mosquitoes away quite nicely.

Smoke wasn’t needed though recently, as I enjoyed about four hours on the lake with 30-mile gusts, and a highpressure system that had fish no place near the lake I was fishing in. I’ll admit, I wasn’t trying very hard, and just needed to get away for a little while and enjoy a Sunday on the lake. Did I mention the big storm that rolled through the area the night before, and the highpressure system it left in its wake?

It wasn’t prime biting weather for the fish, but all I really needed was a small pike for dinner, and since it had been over a week since I’d been on the lake, there were no complaints whatsoever.

The anchors held, the Brewers were winning, and I was the only boat on the lake.

After about three hours of fishing, I hauled in a few dinky panfish and a smallish-sized bass. But on one occa-

There’s something right about bobber fishing for pike during the lulls of summer. After finally learning the somewhat tricky method of filleting them withMarty out the pesky “Y” Seeger bones, I’ve come to enjoy taking home a 25-incher from time The to time for the frying Bottom Line pan.

Bluegill and walleye are all fine eating fish, but the pike has a flavor of its own that can’t easily be beat. And there are definitely a handful of anglers out there who share my sentiments, but as a whole, many people seem to scoff at throwing a slimer into the livewell. Either way, pickled or fried, I’ll take a pike for a meal any day.

Nick Finster took aim with a .22 caliber on Friday, with a consistent grouping to show for (INSET). Photos by Marty Seeger sion, the yellow and orange bobber took a plunge. It had been years since I’d seen a large bobber like that dip below the surface of the water, and it was exciting to watch the fish swim toward the lily pads in the hopes of digesting an easy meal. But before he made it there, the hook was set, and dinner was in the cooler shortly thereafter.

When I was in high school, my friends and I used to fish for gills on one side of the boat and pike on the other. All you really needed was some stout tackle, treble hooks, a leader and a bucketfull of medium-sized sucker minnows. It was purely simple, and a lot like fishing with tip-ups during the winter, only more fun. It always seemed as though the fish were larger, and more eager to bite.

Although that wasn’t the case last week, I’ll be back again for another trip.

Hopefully, it will be a long time before fall arrives. There will definitely be more room left in the cooler for another pike.

Proposed rule would classify prohibited and restricted invasive species Public hearings to be held around state in August MADISON – A proposed rule aimed at slowing the spread of invasive species into Wisconsin by restricting the sale, planting or release of the most troublesome invaders will be the topic of public hearings statewide in August.

The rule would establish two categories of invasive species of plants, animals and nonagricultural plant pests: “prohibited” and “restricted,” and make it illegal to import, transport, buy, sell, plant or release the listed species in Wisconsin.

“Prohibited species are those not yet in the state, or only known in a few locations,” according to Tom Boos, a member of the Department of Natural Resources invasive species team that is developing the proposal. “For these species the goal is eradication and containing their spread before they become troublesome. Restricted species are

those already too widespread to realistically expect to contain statewide, so the goal is to minimize further spread.

“There are a number of species that are close to our doorstep, including kudzu and Asian carp species, and a number of others that are just starting to get established in the state. These are the species proposed as prohibited.

Those already widespread are generally proposed as restricted,” Boos says. “We hope a comprehensive classification system will prevent new introductions of invasive species from occurring and slow the spread of those already here.”

People who have restricted species on their property would not be required to control them. For those few locations where prohibited species are located, the department will work with landowners and others to try to contain them.

Public listening sessions were held in January where Department of Natural Resource staff gathered public comments on a range of possible rule options suggested by the Wisconsin Council on Invasive Species and DNR staff. Those sessions led to the draft rule

proposal the state natural resources board approved for public hearings.

Public hearings on the proposed rule will be held on the following date at the location listed: Aug. 20, Spooner - 2:30 p.m., large conference room, DNR Northern Region Headquarters, 810 W. Maple St. Invasive species already proliferate in state Invasive species are plants, animals and pests from other regions or countries that proliferate and have few natural enemies in Wisconsin to keep their populations in check. Invasive species generally crowd out native species, which in turn harms wildlife that depends on native species for food and habitat. Invasives also can interfere with recreation – as Eurasian water milfoil does when thick mats of the plant tangle in boat propellers – and they can affect industry and cost taxpayers and consumers money. For example, buckthorn and honeysuckle, by preventing forest regeneration, can cause short- and longterm damage to Wisconsin’s $22.6 billion forestry and forest products indus-

try.

More than 180 aquatic invasive species such as zebra mussels, round gobies and spiny water flea have entered the Great Lakes in the last century, and more than 130 nonnative invasive plants have been documented in Wisconsin. A new study by Notre Dame found that invasive species cost the Great Lakes economy $200 million per year.

More information on the public hearings and the invasive classification proposal is available on the DNR Web site.

People will also be able to submit comments online or in writing through the Web site or they may send them to: NR 40 Comments, ER-6, Wisconsin DNR, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921.

This rule is one piece of a comprehensive strategy, including increased grants to local communities to fight aquatic invasive species that was included in Gov. Jim Doyle’s 2007-09 state budget.

For more information contact Tom Boos at 608-266-9276 or Kelly Kearns at 608267-5066. - from the DNR

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Polk County criminal court

Polk County civil court National City Mortgage Co., a division of National City bank of Indiana, nka National City Bank vs. Anthony A. Kopp and Roxanne E. Kopp, Amery.

Foreclosure of mortgage, $124,100.

Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., vs. Deborah L. Livingston and Jene M. Livingston, Amery and Capitol One Bank.

Foreclosure of mortgage,

$93,400 The Huntington National Bank vs. Susan J. Daley, Amery.

Money judgment, $47,002.87.

Regions Hospital vs.

Michelle Firle, Osceola.

Outstanding balance, $12,468.01.

Countrywide Home Loans, Inc. vs. Kim A. Peterson, Balsam Lake, and unknown

Burnett County warrants Randi L. Songetay, 25, Danbury, warrant – failure to appear, July 16.

Matilde M. Staples, 48, El Paso, Texas, warrant – failure to appear, July 16.

spouse of Kim A. Peterson.

Foreclosure of mortgage, $111,207.68.

J.P. Morgan Mortgage Acquisition Corp. vs. Myron J. Doyle and Mairea Doyle, Frederic. Foreclosure of mortgage, $94.099.38

Qualle Bear Daycare, LLC vs. Scott Hanson, Cameron.

Money judgment, $8,696.80.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. vs.

Barbara A. Douglas and Donald D. Douglas, Milltown.

Foreclosure of mortgage, $118,149.12.

Burnett Co. marriage licenses William J. Shafer, Siren, and Amanda J. Chell, Siren, July 17.

Justin A. Fritz, Marienette, and Jennifer L. Seyfert, Siren, July 18.

Gary D. Anderson, Stuart, Fla., and Diona L. Hallenbeck, Grantsbury, July 21.

Russell M. Allen, Webster, and Christina L. Jones, Webster, July 21.

Veterans debate Iraq strategies of McCain, Obama MADISON A group of Wisconsin veterans gathered at the Capitol Monday to praise GOP Sen.John McCain, and give a ringing endorsement for his presidential bid. The group included two state legislators, the former state Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and two recent Iraq War veterans. They also slammed McCain’s opponent, Democrat Barack Obama, for laying out his Iraq war plan before travelling there to meet with military leaders.

Former VA Secretary Ray Boland praised McCain’s steadfastness as a POW during the Vietnam War. He called the Arizona senator “the only candidate” that can lead the free world in the war on terrorism.

“We urgently need a president in the next four years who will have the courage and the knowledge of what the sacrifice of our soldiers and all the other service people means,” said Boland. “That will be critical to the decision we make and the way we continue to

stand tall as the leader of the free world.”

Boland and several of veterans present said their sense is that the majority of military veterans in Wisconsin will vote for McCain in November.

But Todd Dennis, a veteran naval submarine serviceman and member of the Madison chapter of Veterans for Peace disagrees. He says he’s seen strong evidence that many veterans support Obama’s plans for a staged troop withdrawal.

“I’ve been talking recently with some Army Reserve members around Madison and they say they don’t know anyone who supports the war in Iraq,” says Dennis.

But Iraq War veteran and state Rep.Scott Suder told reporters “it’s clear” to many veterans that Obama’s troop withdrawal plan amounts to a retreat that will undermine the fragile democracy emerging in Iraq. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halsted)

Real Estate / Notices / Garage Sales

Misdemeanor Nicole F. Hoverman, 25, Comstock. Disorderly conduct.

Cash bond set $150. Final pretrial Sept. 12.

James B. White, 25, Luck.

Possession of THC. Final pretrial Aug. 12.

Dustin L. Fjorden, 23, Frederic. Possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, bail jumping. Cash Bond set $1,200.

Bradley G. Thorp, 27, Dresser. Disorderly conduct, domestic abuse. Cash bond set $150. Adjourned initial appearance July 21.

Timmy Ray Constant, 40, Amery. Disorderly conduct,

domestic abuse. Signature bond set $1,000. Final pretrial Sept 12.

Dustin Havlish, 27, Osceola.

OWI. Cash bond set $750. Final pretrial Sept. 12.

Fernandez M. Johnson, 22, Amery. Operating without valid license. Cash Bond set $175.

Felony Ronald J. Siebenaler, 40, Houlton. Felony possession of a firearm. Signature bond set $1,000,. Preliminary hearing on July 30.

Bradley G. Thorp, 27, Dresser. Disorderly conduct, false imprisonment bail jumping.

Signature bond set, $10,000.

Burnett County civil court Money Source Inc. vs.

Thomas Higgs, Siren, $659.14.

Cumberland Memorial Hospital vs. Arnie M. Vacura, Siren, $1,763.89.

Diagnostic Radiology Association vs. Louvern Moen, Webster, $1,025.69.

Diagnostic Radiology Association vs. Timothy J. Johnson, Webster, $1,760.86.

Lakeview Medical Center vs. Timothy J. Johnson, Webster, $381.87.

Surgery Clinic of Spooner vs. Charles W. Houman, Danbury, $1,288.00.

Diagnostic Radiology Association vs. Jerry Barrett, Siren, $845.41.

Lakeview Medical Center vs. John Blount, Webster,

$5,092.75.

Cumberland Memorial Hospital vs. Cynthia Mattson, Webster. $389.00.

Wells Fargo Financial Minnesota vs. Chris E. Fickbohm, Grantsburg, 2000 Silverado plus $430.00 court costs.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

Polk County sheriff’s report Accidents July 10, 2:37 p.m., Sterling Twp., 240th Ave./CTH G, .15 mi.

E of 250th Street, #1 – ALEXANDERA JOHANNSEN, 20, St. Croix Falls; #2 – TERESA M. ERICKSON, 25, St. Croix Falls. Unit 1 was eastbound on 240th Ave., at 2547 240th Ave., the front left tire fell off unit 1 and struck unit 2. Unit 2 was traveling westbound on 240th Avenue.

July 11, 9 p.m., St. Croix Falls Twp., 200th Street at 150th Avenue, TIMOTHY J. NELSON, 21, Taylors Falls, Minn., was westbound on 150th Ave., drove through the stop sign at 200th St. Vehicle then entered the ditch, striking a wood post west of the T-intersection (owner,

James Lumsden, RR St. Croix Falls). Vehicle then continued to travel westbound approximately .2 mile through a cornfield before getting stuck in the mud.

The driver fled the scene. Driver cited for failure to report an accident to police.

July 12, 4:18 p.m., Clayton Twp., Hwy. 63, 100’ S. of Barbo Lake Road; #1 – GAY A. RADOSEVICH, 59, Prairie Farm; #2 – JOHN R. BENTLEY, 41, Jackson, Tenn. Unit 2 was northbound on Hwy. 63. Unit 2 was pulling a pop-up camper.

An unknown vehicle pulled out in front of a semi, causing the semi to brake quickly. Unit 2 was following the semi and also braked quickly. Unit 1 was following unit 2 and rear-ended

Polk County divorces Divorces filed Valerie J. Fettig, Luck, and Ronald E. Fettig, Luck. Married 1998, no children Elizabeth R. Gerner, Dresser, and Thomas L. Gerner, Osceola. Married 1988, two children.

Sue A. Adams, Luck, and Donald J. Adams, Minneapolis, Minn. Married 1992, two children.

Jeffrey J. Johnson, Clear Lake, and Jackie M. Johnson, Clear Lake. Married 1994, two children.

Tiffany A. Tiedemann, Cambridge, Minn., and Shaun M. Tiedemann, Osceola.

Married 2008, no children.

Divorces granted Larry L. Fasset, and Joyce M. Fasset. Married 1992, no children.

Gary L. Henderson, and Molly C. Henderson. Married 2007, no children.

Joseph J. Harrington, and Sarah R. Harrington. Married 2001, three children.

Dean E. Scholz, and Cynthia A. Scholz. Married 1968, no children.

Notices

unit 2’s trailer. Unit 2’s trailer became unhooked and struck unit 2. Unit 2 driver, Bentley, received a minor injury. (No EMS/wearing seat belt.)

July 13, 11:58 a.m., Balsam Lake Twp., CTH I, .9 mi. S. of 175th Avenue, JUSTIN T. ANDERSON, 17, Centuria, was southbound on CTH I. Operator said he was adjusting the radio and he went off the roadway to the right. He overcorrected and went into a skid, crossing the centerline and forcing noncontact northbound vehicle off the roadway. Unit 1 then left the roadway and crashed into farm equipment (owner, Greg Peper,

Centuria). Driver cited for inattentive driving.

Other incidents July 7, MARVIN LATTIN, RR Centuria, reported that someone had vandalized his boat motor.

July 11, BRUCE BENTSTON, Mendota Hts., Minn., reported an attempted burglary to his residence in rural Frederic (nothing known to be missing at this time).

July 11, a theft of gas occurred at the CR Convenience business, St. Croix Falls Twp. July 12, the sign for the Dug Out Bar & Grill was stolen from

its location at the intersection of Hwy. 87 and CTH G. July 12, DANIEL R. NORD, RR Osceola, reported mailbox vandalism.

July 13, LAWRENCE V. PLOSZAY, RR Amery, reported that a vehicle caused damage to his field.

July 14, KATHLEEN KUNTZ, RR Frederic, reported a theft of mail/burglary to a camper on her sister’s property (CYNTHIA M. WHITE), rural Frederic.

July 14, PHILLIP D. LINEHAN SR., Hillsdale, reported a burglary to his property in rural St. Croix Falls. He is missing a large, red floor jack and a

unique “Old Style” beer light/sign. The sign is decorated with mountains and a river on it.

When the sign is lit, the river appears to be actually flowing.

July 15, ERIC MEASNER reported the theft of his six-gallon gas container, with gasoline, from his garage, rural Osceola.

July 15, DENNIS ULMER, Vadnais Hts., Minn., reported his pontoon boat motor had been vandalized while docked at his property, rural Centuria.

If anyone has information on the above crimes, please contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 715-485-8300.

Siren police report July 8: The theft of the sign by the Siren Telephone Company was noted at 9 a.m.

The sign is still missing, and there are no suspects.

July 9: Dennis J. LaSarge, 28, Webster, was picked up on a probation violation at his place of employment at 1:55 p.m.

Gene Howard Peterson, 64, White Bear Lake, Minn., was cited for speeding at 7:48 p.m. on Hwy. 35/70 at Crooked Lake Park.

July 15: Heather L. Culver, 31, Webster, was cited for speeding at 5:18 p.m. on Ellis Avenue and Main Street.

July 16: Mary Lou Bilkasley,

48, Hayward, was cited for hitchhiking on Hwy. 35 and Olson.

July 18: Shawn Michael Koehnen, 27, Prior Lake, Minn., was cited for failing to stop at the stop light at the Hwy. 35/70 intersection at 4:15 p.m.

Jeffery James Maher, 56, Centerville, Minn., was cited for fialing to obey the signal at the Hwy. 35/70 intersection at 5:30 p.m.

Bernice Rose Dougherty, 85, Lilydale, Minn., was cited for violating the yellow signal at the intersection of Hwys. 35 and 70 at 5:50 p.m. According to the report, Dougherty went through

the stop sign on the yellow without slowing down or using caution. The red light came on while she was in the intersection.

Donald J. Garske, 19, Frederic, was cited for operating without a valid driver’s license on Hwy. 70 and Ellis Avenue at 9:27 p.m.

July 19: Jon David Locke, 46, Roseville, Minn., was cited for speeding at 6:38 p.m. on Hwy. 35/70 and Works Progress Street.

Chad Anthony Quigley, 37, St. Paul, Minn., was cited for failing to stop at the Hwy. 35/70 stop light at 7:47 p.m.

July 20: Susan K. Aubert, 48, River Falls, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 35/70 and South Shore Drive at 12:16 p.m.

Douglas Daniel Anderson, 21, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., was cited for speeding on Hwy. 70 and Old Hwy. 35 at 12:30 p.m.

John K. Backus, 41, Somerset, was cited for speeding at 1:15 p.m. on Hwy. 35 at Clear Lake Street.

Daren Lee Dunsmoor, 22, Centuria, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 35 and Tower Road at 8:07 p.m.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

Burnett County sheriff’s report Arrests Town of Swiss, July 16: David M. Hughes, 33, Danbury, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Town of Meenon, July 18: Courtney M. Pirla, 22, Siren, was arrested on a Burnett County warrant and driving without a valid driver’s license.

Town of West Marshland, July 19: Earnest S. Swanson, 37,

Grantsburg, was arrested on a Burnett County warrant.

Town of Swiss, July 19: Donald V. Gillis, 27, Danbury, was arrested for domestic battery.

Kimberly D. Cain, 26, Danbury, was arrested for domestic disorderly conduct.

Other incidents Town of Jackson, July 15: Joseph L. Stansbury, Woodbury, Minn., reported his windows

Michael J. Kegel, 37, Siren, OWI, $904.15, one-year prison sentence followed by one-year extended supervision, eligible for challenge incarceration and earned release program, alcohol assessment.

Craig A. Burmeister, 30, Webster, possession of amphetamine/LSD/psilocin, license suspended for six months, twoyear probation, alcohol assessment; possess drug parapher-

nalia, license suspended for six months – concurrent with other suspension, $176.00.

Dax Johnson, 35, Danbury, battery, two-year probation, 240 hours of uncompensated community service, $9,172.31 restitution, $88.00; disorderly conduct, two-year probation, $88.00.

Martin Johnson, 37, Shell Lake, battery, 103-day jail sentence, $88.00.

broken and siding damaged by a BB air rifle. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Trade Lake, July 15: Larry A. Fisk, Frederic, reported firecrackers placed in his mailbox. There was no damage reported to the mailbox. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Swiss, July 16: Burnett County Highway Department reported the under-

side of the Hwy. 35 bridge at Riverside spray painted. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Trade Lake, July 17: Ramona M. Zurawski, Grantsburg, reported a stolen mailbox. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Union July 17: Everett L. Peterson, Danbury, reported a mailbox stolen. The incident is under investigation.

Burnett County criminal court

Burnett County deaths Kenneth N. Hinze Sr., 62, Webster Village, July 11.

Irene L. Bailey, 67, Union, July 9.

Kelly L. Skinaway, Swiss, June 24.

49,

Elizabeth J. T. DoveSimmon, 45, Frederic, possession of THC, two-year probation, license suspended six months, alcohol assessment, $88.00; intentionally contribute to the delinquency of a child, threemonth probation, meet with department of health and human services about victims activities for the summer, alcohol assessment, $88.00.

Myles J. Benjamin, 22, Sandstone, Minn., possession

of THC, 18-day jail sentence, license suspended six months, $88.00.

Town of Wood River, July 18: Lawrence Espeland, Maple Grove, Minn., reported a boat motor taken from his boat. The incident is under investigation.

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

6 extra pages in this week’s E-edition

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JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 33

Notices / Employment Opportunities

PAGE 34 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 35

Fireworks light up the sky at the Grantsburg Watercross

Saturday night, after the watercross snowmobile races, the night sky was light-up by the breathtaking fireworks show held at Memory Lake Park in Grantsburg. – Photos by Kerri Harter

P i c k u p th e b ea t

When there’s no room on stage, the back end of a pickup truck will do, as this band member demonstrated at the Taylors Falls Lions Park where his band performed while the Tug Across the River event was being held. - Photo by Gary King

PAGE 36 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

Storm’s end

Plan of attack

Looks a bit like the forward chipmunk is about to be hit from behind. Photo by Erik Barstow

After the last of the storms passed through Burnett County near Danbury last Saturday, this rainbow appeared, perhaps as a sign that the storms were coming to an end. - Photo by Carl Heidel

Hog Jam Poker Run Organizers of this year’s Cumberland Fire Departments annual Hog Jam Poker Run to raise money for fire equipment are (L to R): Steve and Debbie Vangsness and Monte and Theresa Krueger.

Participants in this year’s annual Hog Jam Poker Run parked outside of the Sundown Saloon in Lewis. The run started in Cumberland, and looped through Polk and Burnett counties before returning to Cumberland. At least 200 bikes participated in this year’s run to raise money for the Cumberland Fire Department.

Photos submitted

‘Follow the Leader’

Currents N O R T H E R N

July 2 3, 20 08 2nd Se ct io n B I nt e r-C ount y Lead er

News and views from the Northwest Wisconsin community

Lamar Music Festival to mark fifth year Celebrating summer and bringing people together, festival runs Aug. 15-17 RURAL CENTURIA – For the fifth year, Lamar is putting on a show with its annual Lamar Music Festival Aug. 15-17 on the grounds of the former Lamar School, on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982.

The backdrop for the stage is corn some years, and great green round bales of hay on others, which is perfect considering the agrarian past that launched this building in 1905 back when Lamar was the big town. The railroad rearranged all that and yet, Lamar School remained a focal point for community and continues in that capacity to this day.

This year’s festival features Latin Dance and Music on Friday night, a songwriting extravaganza headlined by the Kurt Jorgensen Band on Saturday, and a gospel service on Sunday – Lutheran Light – where everyone is welcome, Swedes and Norwegians. Along with a fabulous array of music for listening and dancing, there’s festival food, children’s activities, and tours of the solar heating system, all in the fresh air and summer country of the Saint Croix Valley. All the proceeds from the festival fund the renovation of this charming historic building which is the focal point for programming that enriches the greater community.

Every year, generous sponsorships from businesses and individuals and a fun-loving core of volunteers put the festival together. In addition, the Lamar Music Festival is supported by grants from the Saint Croix Valley Community Foundation and also the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the state of Wisconsin.

Festival Friday Music, the universal language, brings people together on Friday, Aug. 15, with Viva! A Celebration of Latin Dance and Music featuring the Twin Cities premier Afro-Cuban band, Salsabrosa, with pianist Viviana Pintado, and preceded by a free Afro-Cuban dance lesson with noted dancer, actor, and instructor Rene Thompson.

“There’s been a surge of Latin music and dance in the Twin Cities, and we’re delighted to bring this incredible band to the festival,” says festival chair Kathleen Melin. “It’s such happy music and the dancing is so varied and intricate and beautiful. It’s an important way to honor our minority residents, and expand appreciation for this gorgeous and diverse music.”

Salsabrosa plays Latin music with a passionate and deep understanding of its historical and cultural origins.

Shortly after the band was booked for the Lamar Music Festival, they were engaged to play in front of Doc Severinsen at Orchestra Hall. Salsabrosa carries the torch for Beny Moré, Tito Puente, Héctor Lavoe, Celia Cruz and other great salseros.

Band members come from Cuba, Honduras and the United States. Prior to Salsabrosa’s performance, artist-instructor Rene Thompson will offer a free dance lesson Thompson, also from

The former Lamar School. Photo submitted The Twin Cities premier Afro-Cuban band, Salsabrosa, will perform at the Lamar Music Festival on Friday, Aug. 15. - Special photo Cuba, has presented seminars at Century College and the Minneapolis Community College, and teaches Afro-Cuban dance within its historical and cultural context of slavery, immigration and assimilation. Thompson has been a professional Latin dancer for 27 years, 20 of those as an instructor and choreographer.

He has performed traditional Afro-Cuban and popular Latin dance all over the world and in many music videos and movies with popular U.S. and international artists including Will Smith, John Leguizamo, Gloria Estefan, Chayenne and the Miami Sound Machine. Thompson teaches the uniquely Cuban steps of Salsa, Chachacha, Mambo, Rumba and other Cuban rhythms and includes the heart of the Cuban style which has its foundation in Africa and Spain as well as his homeland of Cuban. He has been honored by the Federal Executive Board, the USDA, the Harrington Foundation, and Minneapolis Community College for his informative and insightful talks and demonstrations about the rich history of his Afro-Cuban roots.

More at www.renedance.com Salsabrosa begins playing at 8 p.m. following the 7 p.m. dance lesson.

Festival Saturday Saturday brings everybody together in a multigenerational celebration day of music and friends and life in the country that starts at 1 p.m., when Lamar alumni and elders roll in early for a casual reunion.

Afternoon is especially family friendly.

Children mingle with the old-timers in a twirl of hula hoops, face paint, and old-fashioned games and toys. In addition to fun and games, there’ll be a children’s theater and dance performance, storytelling, and songs in the afternoon.

By evening, the crowd eases into a dancing, listening groove and some lucky kids get to stay up late.

Festival music on Saturday honors the artistry of the singer-songwriter with Kurt Jorgensen headlining, The Ben Mills Mystery Project, performances by veteran songwriters Cynthia Rintala, Carl Unbehaun, and Dave Frank, and the Songwriter’s Showcase.

Songwriters from throughout the region have been presenting at open mikes in the area and 10 of them will be on stage, admired and supported by the festival audience following a seminar by

See Festival, page 13

The Kurt Jorgensen headlines on Saturday at Lamar. - Special photo

Lamar – A historic center for progressive community RURAL CENTURIA - Lamar, a tworoom school on the National Register of Historic Places, has been a focal point for community since it was first built in 1905.

It has transitioned several times in its 103-year history, both as a building and as a community. At present, the building is under renovation and the organization is cultivating more and more programming that promotes community vitality.

Lamar School began with one room.

A second room was added in 1910 and at its height, 104 students attended. In the early days, the community consisted of the school, a store, post office, church, creamery, dozens of immigrant farms and a brickyard.

The community by the same name was bypassed by the railroad in 1900 and the center of commerce gradually moved to nearby Centuria. Lamar School is the only visible remnant of this once-thriving community.

Since becoming a nonprofit in 2000, the organization has offered an array of programming in the arts and education, including a kids art camp, a threshing party, solar seminars for tradespeople, tours and the annual music festival.

The former school is currently being renovated with a focus on sustainable building materials and renewable energy systems. In 2004, Lamar installed a radiant solar high mass heating system with support from the State of Wisconsin Focus on Energy program.

That retrofit coincided with foundation repairs that included the use of an insulated fiber-cement block. Tours of the building and system are scheduled throughout the festival weekend.

Once the renovation is completed, Lamar will offer continuous yeararound programming in education, the arts and the folk school tradition.

For more information on Lamar and the Lamar Music Festival, visit www.lamarcommunity.org. - Kathleen Melin

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Ashley Kolve crowned Miss St. Croix Falls 2008

2008 St. Croix Falls Royalty First Princess Angie Sommer, Miss St. Croix Falls and Miss Congeniality Ashley Kolve and Second Princess Brandi Swenson.

Getting her second crown of the night, Ashley Kolve is crowned Miss St. Croix Falls 2008 by Jasmine Jones.

Kolve was also crowned Miss Congeniality earlier in the evening.

- Photos by Tammi Milberg

Miss St. Croix Falls 2007, Jasmine Jones, gives her farewell address. Also pictured are 2007 royalty (L to R): Third Princess and Miss Congeniality Jessel Price, Second Princess Kate Wright and First Princess Abby Swenson.

St. Croix Falls Little Miss Royalty are pictured (L to R): First Little Princess Heather Hankel, Little Miss St. Croix Falls 2008 MaKayla Stringer and Second Little Princess Isabella Gatten.

Angie Sommer is crowned first princess by Abby Swenson.

Members of the St. Croix Falls 2007 Royalty teamed up with the 2008 Miss St. Croix Falls contestants in a dance to “You’re the One That I Want” from “Grease” as the opening to the Miss St. Croix Falls pageant July 18.

Wannigan Days •

50th

Brandi Swenson is crowned second princess.

• Anniversary

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

The deer crossing

by Tom Griffiths It was a warm winter day. Of course, warm and winter don’t really go together. The sun was shining and it was warm for being Dec. 10, so my wife and I decided to drive to the mall, do some Christmas shopping and have lunch.

The day seemed to fly by and we were able to make some great purchases. Over lunch, we talked about many things and one of them happened to be the subject of deer. What we discussed most was how few deer we had seen since the deer-hunting season started. Before, the deer seemed to be everywhere, and that made driving a real challenge. Deer would seem to appear from out of nowhere and run straight for the car. On one of our drives back from town, a deer started toward the car forcing me to stop. After I

PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Brenda Mayer at 715-485-3571 or Iris Holm 715294-3174 for more information. - submitted

Writer’s Corner stopped the deer kept heading for the car, and it was only at the last minute that he ran around me. Again we both remarked that things were quieter now.

Just a few more stops after lunch, and we would be on our way. It is always nice to get home before dark, just in case there are deer around. So we finished up as planned and started for home. Our home is deep in the woods, so the roads keep getting smaller. First, we are on a freeway, then a two-lane road and finally, on single-lane country roads. We were just a few miles from home when two large deer ran across the road.

They must have been about a city block away from us.

I applied the brakes and slowed the car down. Finally, I brought the car to a complete stop because a third deer was standing at the side of the road.

Anyone who drives a motor vehicle knows that other cars and people have certain rights of way. For example, it is not unusual to come to an intersection at the same time as another vehicle. On those occasions, one might wave to the other vehicle indicating they should cross the intersection first. Well, here I am at

an intersection with a deer.

The question is, who arrived at the intersection first, us or the deer? Who has the right of way? So, I raised my left hand toward the windshield and in a quick motion I waved the deer to cross. I thought this was kind of cute and funny thing to do. The deer seemed to acknowledge my gesture and slowly walked across the road. Once on the other side, he looked back at us as if to say thanks, and bolted off into the woods.

My wife and I looked at each other and then broke out into laughter. What a sight, it was as if the deer knew the rules of the road. We laughed all the way home. It was sure different when we told people about this incident, because all we got were blank stares and rolled eyeballs. I guess you just had to be there.

Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Each month we have a topic to write about and read to the group. The following writing was read at the last meeting. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-349-2761 for more information about the organization.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

“Dates with a Nut” a big hit with audiences ST. CROIX FALLS - Opening weekend audiences howled with delight at the antics of two highly gifted actors in their performance of “Dates with a Nut.” Patrick O’Brien was compared to comic actors Don Knotts (especially in his role as Barney Fife) and Wally Cox. Meg Merckens wowed theater-goers with her quickchange tricks, moving through the physical and dialogue demands of five extremely different characters without missing a beat.

“Dates with a Nut” is the story of a middle-aged widower, William Fox, who is convinced by co-workers to re-enter the world of dating by way of an Internet service. He proceeds to set up his initial “safe dates” at the local café where he is taken under wing by Dori, the longtime waitress and self-appointed dating coach. One disastrous date after another serves up nothing but “Nuts” with the only steady hand being the waitress pouring the coffee.

“Dates with a Nut,” produced by the Iowa Theatre Artists Company and sponsored by The Bernick Companies, is the second play in the 2008 Theatre Series at Festival and it runs on weekends through Aug. 10; later this summer “Sea Marks” opens on Thursday, Aug. 14,

William Fox (Patrick Thomas O’Brien) is stunned by a first date encounter with Melody and tries to relax when meeting fast-track businesswoman Leonna (Meg Merckens plays both female characters plus three more in “Dates with Nut.” -Photo submitted

with “Arsenic and Old Lace” opening on Oct. 9 and “A Christmas Story” opening on Nov. 29. The 2008 season also has seven concerts remaining and a variety of special events such as Leon Redbone in concert on Sept.

20.

The remaining performances for “Dates with a Nut” are 2 p.m. Thursday matinees on July 24, 31 and Aug. 7, along with Sunday matinees on July 27, Aug. 3 and 10.

Evening performances are at 7:30 p.m., with performances on most Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Tickets for “Dates with a Nut” are $25 for adults and $12.50 for youth. Subscribers get a deep discount through the purchase of Flex Pass packages which are bundled with either six seats or 10 seats. Packages range in price from $105 to $185. To receive a 2008 season brochure, stop in at Festival Theatre or request one by phone or e-mail. Festival Theatre is located in downtown St. Croix Falls, at 210 North Washington Street. For more information, to order tickets or join the Festival Theatre mailing list, call 715-483-3387 or 888-887-6002. You may also send an e-mail to info@festivaltheatre.org or use the theater’s Web site www.festivaltheatre.org for tickets or additional information.

Polk County second installment property taxes due POLK COUNTY – Polk County Treasurer Amanda Nissen is reminding property taxpayers that the second installment of their 2007 property taxes is due, postmarked or received, by July 31. All property taxes except personal property are payable to Polk County treasurer. Personal property is paid to the municipal treasurer.

Mail postmarked in August will incur interest at 1 percent per month. Due to state statutes, taxes unpaid in August will incur interest from February forward, or 7 percent, increasing by 1 percent each month starting in September.

There are many ways for Polk County taxpayers to pay their taxes.

• Pay in person at the Government Center Office hours are 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday • Mail to Polk County Treasurer

Polk County Plaza, Suite 150, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 • E-check or credit card on the Internet at http://www.co.polk.wi.us/treasury/pay-taxes-online.asp.

The charge for e-check is $2.75 per transaction and fee for credit card is 2.75 percent of amount to be paid. You may also pay by credit card over the phone by dialing 800-272-9829 and at the prompt enter jurisdiction code 5935. For online and phone payments be sure to have your Parcel Id number ready.

Reminder notices were mailed out at the beginning of July letting taxpayers know the amount due by parcel number. Because of the corrected billing that went out in late December, the amount on the reminder notice may not match the amount due on your tax bill.

Please pay off the reminder notice, as that is the correct and current amount due. If you would like a paid receipt, please send a self-addressed stamped envelope

Local Ice Age Trail Chapter receives 3M grant BURNETT/POLK COUNTIES - The Indianhead Chapter of the Ice Age Trail has received $200 from the 3M Foundation in recognition of the volunteer hours in trail work contributed by Fred Dalleska, a 3M retiree and a woodland owner in Polk County.

Putting in far more than the required 25 hours, Dalleska is part of a corps of volunteers who work throughout the year clearing brush, cutting trail tread, building bridges and generally keeping the trail in topnotch condition.

Through its Volunteer Match program, the 3M Foundation donates $200 per calendar year to eligible nonprofit organizations for each 3M employee or retiree who has volunteered 25 or more hours. During the past five years, that community commitment by Chapter 3M retirees has resulted in a total donation of $2,800 to the Indianhead Chapter.

For more information on the 3M Volunteer Match program, please contact 3M Community Affairs at 651733-0144. - from Ice Age Trail

with your payment. Tax information is also online. The online address is: http://www.co.polk.wi.us/treasury/property-tax-search.asp. Their Web site is updated twice a week, so there may be a delay in your payment showing up online.

If you cannot pay your taxes in full, their office does accept partial payments. Any payments made will reduce the amount of interest that accrues in the following months. Interest only accrues on unpaid taxes, not on the interest that has accrued and is noncompounding.

If you have any questions, Nissen can be reached at 715-485-9255. - submitted

Selin PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Five George Sornsons

Collected by

River Road

With information from George W. Sornson CUSHING – George William Sornson passed along some pictures and information on his family for our next Cushing history book. He is one of a series of five generations of sons named George Sornson, starting with his greatgrandfather George, who was born in 1838 in Kalundborg, Denmark, came to Waupun, in 1869. This first generation had son Nels Peter, born in Denmark, with 11 more children, born in Waupun, including George William (Bill), in 1871, the second George. In a diphtheria epidemic between December and January of 1883-‘84, four children died.

In 1895, the first generation and several of their children moved to Cushing.

At Cushing, daughter Carrie Elizabeth married Christian Askov of Cushing, of the Askov Bros. Stores in Cushing and Luck. Son Henry Sornson, 1879-1969, married Anna Hanson of Cushing and had daughters Helen and Marjorie.

Henry farmed and was a carpenter, building many of the barns and houses around Cushing. Oldest son Nels Peter Sornson, 1867-1960, also came to Cushing. It is interesting to note that Nels lived to 93; George W., 92; Henry, 90; and their father to 97.

George William (Bill) Sornson, the second George, moved to South Dakota from Waupun before coming to Cushing in 1906 and moving to a farm near Bass Lake at the corner of Purgatory and Hwy. 87. He was active in Sterling and Polk County government and local church and cooperative organizations.

He died in 1963. At the corner of Evergreen and River Road is a stone marker honoring George William Sornson, who was Sterling Town Board chairman and helped to start the Sterling Township Forest—4,000 acres of land in West Sterling owned by the township.

His son, the third generation, George Richard, married Hazel Danielson (father Klaus Danielson, mother Anna Hedberg—both families living at one time on the River Road opposite each other across the county line). They moved to the Twin Cities where George eventually went to work for Cargill, the agriculture company. The family traveled all over the U.S. working on grain elevators for Cargill, also including stays in Brazil and Canada. They had three children, Marlys, Dolores and

George William, George Richard and George Sornson about 1914.

Possibly the Danielson buzz saw rig.

Russ Hanson

Ramblings

George W. Sornson moved to Cushing in 1906, onto a farm the family still owns near Bass Lake. – Photos submitted George William Sornson (fourth in the series and the fellow who passed along this information and the pictures in the column this week). His son is named George B. Sornson—the fifth George Sornson in the series! The farm at Bass Lake is still in the family.

••• Stop at the Red School House on the Polk County Fairgrounds this weekend and visit. We hope to be open about 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day with historical exhibits and some old cars and tractors our neighbors bring.

The summer church service at the Trade Lake Mission Church will be this Sunday, July 27, 11 a.m. service and noon potluck picnic and celebration of the old church that Stanley wrote about last week in this column. The local Scandinavians try to outdo each other for wonderful ethnic food. I brought store-bought cookies last time and was shamed into trying harder this year. I think I will practice at the fair with deep-fat-fried lutefisk on a stick—and if it works out bring it to the picnic. The problem is that lutefisk—being aged so much that the texture is like Jell-O, is hard to keep on a stick. I have been adding those fiberglass fibers they add to cement to help hold the fish in the batter. Margo thinks the fibers improve the flavor too.

Vernon Peterson hopes the Leader will have his new book, “Marriage on the Rocks,” out this week so he can have some at the rock show at the Frederic High School this weekend. If you like Lake Superior agates, this is the premier show for seeing or buying them.

There are activities for the kids and adults as well as all sorts of rocks and minerals and gems and locally-made jewelry at the show. I highly recommend it!

A funny thing happened when Margo came back from visiting her parents. I showed her the $75, 1971 fixer-upper converted ice-fishing shack, 13’ Aristocrat Lo-Liner camper trailer I had bought her as a surprise birthday pres-

ent. I had aired it out so the mold and fish smell were mostly gone and widened the curtains to cover most of the wall damage from leaking rain—so it was really looking pretty snazzy. She went in, took a quick look around and came out crying. At first I thought she had gotten hurt when she stepped on the throw rug covering the ice-fishing hole in the floor and fell through, turning her ankle hitting the ground. But no—she had tears of joy in her eyes!

She was overwhelmed with happiness with her new trailer! “You shouldn’t have done it!” she exclaimed gratefully. “I don’t deserve this trailer!”

Well, in a few minutes she had her happiness back under control. “It seems a shame that we should take this wonderful ice-fishing and deer-hunting trailer and do all the work to turn it back into a travel camper. I worry about you doing too much work and tiring yourself when we can use it just like it is this winter on the lake. For deer hunting we can pull it out on the Barrens and you and your deer-hunting buddies can stay overnight in it instead of having to worry about keeping our lake place

clean. I wouldn’t dream of making you do all that work to fix it up for our trip to Texas this January.”

She sure is an unselfish person. Giving up her birthday present and her turning it into a gift for me is really pretty great! I said, “But I don’t have a n o t h e r birthday present for you.” “It’s the thought that counts,” she replied.

“I will look around for a n o t h e r camper that you don’t have to do any work on to take to Texas.”

So, I guess we are in the market for another 1315’, older camper that is ready to roll. Margo George Richard thinks that Sornson played for the instead of a Cushing Tigers. price range of under $100, we might have to look at paying a little more and try for one with the floor all there.

Stop at the Cushing bank or At-las Antiques and pick up a Cushing History Book for $15. Help us with the next one by sharing your information with riverroadrambler @gmail.com or send to Russ Hanson 2558 Evergreen Avenue, Cushing, WI 54006, 715-488-2776.

Order a book for $17.58 from SELHS, Box 731, Cushing, WI 54006. See you at the fair!

Edith and Hazel Danielson after the family moved to Four Corners.

George W. Sornson married Hazel, the daughter of Klaus Danielson, a Watkins salesman.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Trade Lake comes alive when bookmobile arrives

by Sharen Kaatz Trade Lake was once a busy, thriving trade center, one of the first in Burnett County. It Abramamzon boasted a creamery, a flour mill, general store, saloons, a hotel, a couple of churches, a bank, feed store, cobbler, barbershop, livery stable and the town hall. Now it’s just real quiet, with only the blacksmith shop downtown and the small store and bait shop out on the highway.

Trade River flows quietly under the bridge with pale-green willows hanging low over the river. With the drought, the water level is really low. Trash shows on the riverbed. An old wringer washer, a child’s sled, pus assorted cans and bottles clutter an otherwise picturesque scene.

The visit of the bookmobile to the village makes the street come alive. The first bookmobile patron is already waiting for the arrival of the monthly visit. She rides a new 10-speed, orange bicycle, a khaki knapsack of books on her back and more books on the carrier of the bike. She is too old to be a hippie-type. Her dark hair is held back by a red bandana, and the right leg of her jeans is rolled up and held by a bicycle clip.

Her selections are mostly on gardening, sewing, history, cookbooks, along with some classical records.

She has been coming to the bookmobile for over eight years now.

When the big, lumbering, green bookmobile van appears on CTH O, other patrons arrive.

An older lady, with black, high-heeled granny shoes and white anklets, her silver-gray hair twisted back in a bun, brings her armload of historical novels and children’s books. She is baby-sitting her grandchildren again.

A dark-haired man in his mid-40s pulls up on Main Street in his maroon pickup. A five-year patron, he carefully climbs down from the truck and reaches for his bag of books and his cane. He was hurt in a farm accident, and reading is one of the few pleasures that he can enjoy now. Early history of the area and nonfiction are his fortes. He takes his time, and carefully selects his books for the coming months of reading.

A young mother, her dark hair in two fat braids, and her 3-year-old son in red overalls and blue sneakers, are anxious to catch the bookmobile every month. They are relative newcomers. She is obviously expecting again, and her books consist of babyand child-care books, “Nursing Your Baby,” and some little-kid books and records for her small son.

Heavyset, with soft white hair, a retiree has trouble lifting her bad leg as she struggles up the rollout steps. The bookmobile man is watching for her and goes to take her books and help her into the big van.

She likes biographies and historical novels along with some travel books. She is retired for six years now, and widowed. She has plenty of time to read.

The dark-haired, pretty lady whose family is remodeling the old schoolhouse comes with a grocery bag full of books. Her husband wants her to read to

Bernice

Behind the Signpost

be well-informed on the subjects he likes. I wonder what else she reads, just for herself?

An elderly lady, her face freckled and her hair bleached by the sun, comes and hops right up the steps, with a half-dozen Westerns under her arm. She can recite the title and author of every western she’s read. It’s getting hard for her to find any she hasn’t read. The library man tries to talk her into something similar, she won’t be budged. Westerns are her bag.

Across the street, the blacksmith shop is doing business-as-usual. Nonreaders, hands hooked into the front of striped overalls, are staring out the big door of the shop, waiting for their welding and repair jobs to be done.

Then there is the old lady who comes just to watch the book readers. You won’t catch her reading a book, she’s a television addict.

In an hour the bookmobile, headquartered at Ashland, is gone. The town is quiet for another four weeks. But come that fourth Wednesday, it lives again.

Reprinted from The Evening Telegram, Superior (Note: The bookmobile has become a fond memory. It was a very convenient service, especially in a rural area. Library Books-by-Mail offers a different service these days, and I see it is used by many who could just as easily avail themselves of the local libraries in each small town.)

Our 41st Rock Show Rocks and minerals have always been one of my many interests. Many of my best friends are rock hounds. They fetch and carry and dig. There is no such thing as too many rocks, although my sons will disagree with me when they are picking rock before planting fields in the spring.

Every year it seems rocks push their way to the surface. Sometimes they are boulders in size.

I have noticed that piles of rocks in farmers’ fields are disappearing. Those rock piles are worth money these days for building fireplaces, retaining walls, and yard focal points. There are even fake rocks used in building.

You are invited to see real rocks this Saturday and Sunday, July. 26 and 27, at the Frederic High School from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., sponsored by the Indianhead Rock and Mineral Society.

Children enjoy the games set up for them, including grab bags, a spin game and digging for rocks.

Rocks are on display from local areas, as well as from all over the world. Rocks have names and it is a challenge to identify them, feel their smoothness, admire their special qualities and colors.

Experts at the show can identify rocks if you bring them in. Sometimes they are composites, a mixture, perhaps with mica or crystal or ?

There’s a world of wonder at the show. Do come and see for yourself.

Yes, it’s free entry, free parking, free viewing, but once inside you’ll be tempted.

It’s the specimen you don’t buy that you regret.

The ring or necklace you skipped over. The fossil you admired and left there. Believe me, I’ve been there!

Until next week, Bernice

Actor, musicians to perform on riverboat fundraising cruise ST. CROIX FALLS - James Walker in the role of Mark Twain and David Frank of RedBird Music will make appearances at the 2008 Festival Theatre Riverboat Fundraising Cruise on Thursday, Aug. 7, aboard the Taylors Falls Princess. Sponsored by Wild Mountain’s Scenic Boat Cruise, The Copy Shop, and Eagle Valley Bank, the riverboat cruise provides patrons of the arts with the opportunity to support the efforts of Festival Theatre in keeping professional theater alive and well in the upper St. Croix River Valley.

A limited number of tickets are available for this gala event with boarding at 6:30 p.m. and departure at 7 p.m. Tickets are $100 each for the scenic boat cruise, gour-

met hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and delectable desserts. An exciting silent auction features the work of local artists and a variety of entertainment packages. Fundraising efforts support the theater series of Festival Theatre, now in its 19th season. For additional information or to purchase tickets to the fundraising cruise, call 888-8876002 or 715-483-3387. - from Festival Theatre

James Walker

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Marvin’s Shoe Shop had a sale of footwear in Frederic.-“Peyton Place” was playing at the D’Lux Theatre, Luck.–Wallin Implement had a sale on John Deere machinery, Centuria.-Polk County formed a Knowles for Lt. Gov. Club.-The dedication was held at the Frederic School building (high school).-Unity school outlined program for opening term, Sept. 2.-Indianhead Association annual meeting was set for Sept. 10.-A Republican rally was held at Balsam Lake.-Six Frederic students were on the honor roll at River Falls including Gary Glynn, Muriel Peterson, Albert Peterson, Grace Dahlberg Kalantan, Robert Wiseman plus two others (too faint to read).-An anniversary sale was held at Harold’s Home Furnishings at Siren, with free pony rides for kids.-Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic included toilet tissue 4 rolls for 29¢, grape jam 63¢ for 4 lb. jar, ground beef at 49¢ lb. and cube steaks at 79¢ lb.-Specials at the Frederic Farmers Co-op Store included bacon at 89¢ lb., liver sausage at 49¢ lb., 3 lbs. shortening at 69¢ lb., and black pepper at 7¢.-Stop and Swap at Taylors Falls had an odds and ends clearance sale.

40 Years Ago Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included ham at 89¢ lb. for whole or half.-Wieners at 79¢ lb., 3 lbs. Folgers coffee at $1.99, Libby’s lemonade at 3 six oz. tins at 29¢.-Bradford Utley, Grantsburg, passed away.-Polk County citizens attended a July meeting of Vo-Tech 18 Board.-A country western show at Trollhaugen had good response.The Leader plant would close two weeks in July so all employees would be gone for that period.

The Leader newspapers were printed in advance.

The first issue was easy with leftover news from previous week, but the second vacation issue was hard to fill in advance.-The Settlers picnic at the Dongola School was held Sunday, July 21, with potluck picnic.-A Lewis resident, Mrs. Cecile (Mrs. Ted) Schoenebaum, filed as candidate for Frederic School Board.-A Minnesota man was picked up for stealing food between Balsam Lake and Amery. He was a resident of Goose Lake.-A closeout sale was held on all Bridgestone cycles in stock at Red Arrow Sports.-The film “The Graduate” was playing at the Auditorium Theatre at St. Croix Falls.

20 Years Ago Pioneer Home, Luck, reports profits down, equity up.-The Leader sold for 25¢ an issue for 2-year subscriptions.-Races brought all types of bicyclers to Frederic.-The first Frederic bike race attracted nearly 100.-The emergency fire ban continues.Miss Frederic of 1988 was Dawn Lindberg. She was one of 12 candidates.-Carol Juleen was Milltown’s Grand Marshal.-The Polk County Social Services building will cost $1 million.-The Frederic School Board members were told extra funds may be used to lower levy.-The Frederic lifeguards were given a raise.-The Business of the Week focused on Dottie Darwin and her growing wig and beauty shop, Milltown.-A new Luck deli gave area residents another choice.-A uniform grading system was developed for Luck school.-Public healthcare nurses help with home-care needs.-The Amery editor, Palmer Sondreal, was the new president of State Press Association.-The Luck School Board members postponed action on proposed preschool program.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Hello, everyone! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. I thought I would take a break from snapping at deer flies and impart to you folks some news. Good grief, even with doggy bug dope on, the flies are driving me nuts! When I walk down the road, I look like someone whacked me on the head with a stick and I have stars swirling around my head like in the cartoons, but they’re actually deer flies. Some days I feel like I have my own constellation! You know the humane society’s motto, “Sav- YAPpenings ing lives, one at a time,” don’t you? Well, my new motto is “Blacky: Taking out flies, one at a time.” Yep, I eat them. They don’t fill me up, but one less fly circling my head is a satisfying feeling nonetheless.

Something else that made me feel good is that Rose, the little black Lab mix, has found a new home. She’s pretty excited, and I don’t blame her. I believe Freckles, the baby springer did, too. Their kennel mates are hoping the day they get to go home arrives soon as well. Just to refresh your memory, there’s Mya, the shepherd mix; Appelonia the springer (Freckles’ mom); Coda, who is a Basenji mix; Buddy, the rat terrier pup; Buster, the vaulting springer; Twilight, the mellow black Lab; Missy, the shih tzu; and last but not least, Precious, the Lab/terrier mix pup. Two new dogs came in last week also. I don’t know a whole lot about them just yet, but I think they are strays. Tulip is a collie mix, and a very cute girl. She is around 4 to 5 months old and has short brown hair and a long nose. Psalms is an older shepherd mix, and we think he is about 7 or 8 years old. He is a nice dog, too, and has a very cool reddish-brown coat. There are still a

Blacky

Shelter

349-2964

Siren

It’s been a little quiet this week in my backyard. My little Pee Wee, the little black bear, hasn’t showed up now for over a week. There are, however, two sets of fawns and a single one that have been coming to the salt block we set out for them. The does must feel they can be on their own in the woods now, as they show up much of the time without their mothers, oh-how they like to play. Hard to believe summer is about half over already. Soon it’s the Grantsburg fair, Aug. 21 – 24, Labor Day and, don’t forget the annual Siren Lions huge three-day yard sale spread out in Crooked Lake Park, then it’s the start of school, this signals the arrival of fall, then back to winter again. Seems to me the world is turning faster each year.

The Rock and Mineral Show is coming up on July 26 and 27. This is their 41st year of shows. Stop in at the Frederic High School on either Saturday or Sunday, or do both days, it’s a free outing for adults and kids. They will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. They even have lunch available to purchase as well as other items.

Siren Community Bible School will be held at the Siren Methodist Church this year. It starts on Monday, Aug. 4 and ends on Friday, Aug. 8. This Bible school is open to all, so if you have children ages 4 to 6, bring them in, or if your kids are seventh grade and up, who enjoy helping, please send them along. For more info, call Mary Yambrick at 715-349-5660 or the church at 715-349-2204.

Fran Krause

lot of kittens at the shelter that stick their claws out of their cage at me when I walk past, and plenty of adult cats who are too cool to engage in such antics. They just look at me and say, “What’s up with those crazy ears?”

I’m sure. My ears are just fine, thank you. At least they work, which reminds me of a story. The other day my mom loaded up my brothers and me in our car and took us out to a quiet place to go for a walk and a swim. I have two brothers, as you may or may not know. One is full of nonsense (and gas) and thinks the world revolves around him. The other one is the most laid-back, cheerful dog I know, but he is very old and is losing his marbles. He can’t hear anymore and spends most of his days sleeping, or else he’s barking at flying saucers he thinks he sees up in the sky. He is in good shape physically, though, and still loves to go for walks. Anyway, we were out walking and got to our turn-around spot, but the old guy kept going, and going...and going. Calling him doesn’t do any good, and we stood there watching him fast becoming a white dot on the horizon. Mom said to neither one of us in particular, “Go get him.”

I couldn’t believe what happened next: The self-centered chucklehead took off running after our brother, rounded him up, and got him pointed back in the right direction. I was impressed - he does care! I thought that was pretty neat, and told him so, but he just bumped me into the weeds and told me to be quiet. Oh, well. It’s nice to have a family, such as they are, and I hope that all my cat and dog friends at the shelter will soon be as lucky as I am and find themselves a good, loving home and have their own stories to tell.

Well, that’s all I know today. I’ve got to rest my head. Enjoy the great outdoors, everybody, and I’ll see you here next week!

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org 866-4096.

Praise in the Park is coming to the Crooked Lake Park Band Shell on Sunday, Aug. 3, at 2 p.m., and everyone is welcome so bring a friend and a chair and enjoy some very talented local people play, as well as comedian Babes Anderson. Sonny Windberg will emcee the musical afternoon. A community sing-a-long will also take place so bring your singing voices. This will be a great afternoon of fun. There will be refreshments of coffee, Kool-Aid and cookies. There will be a freewill offering taken to cover the expenses with the leftover going to the Siren Goodwill Samaritans Club. This sounds like lots of fun, so bring you friends.

The high gas prices at the pumps don’t seem to detour our weekend visitors so far. The cars seem to be passing by our house on Thursday, Friday, and again, Sunday afternoon, much the same as they did before gas prices went sky high.

Art and Bev Beckmark spent Friday afternoon visiting with Peggy Strabel at her home out on Waldora Road.

There will be a fly-in, or your can just drive in, breakfast and lunch coming up on Saturday, July 26, at the Burnett County Airport. There is a pancake breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m., sponsored by the Siren Ag club and a brat feed from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. sponsored by the Crex Meadows Volleyball Club.

Orange

Dee Krause and her mother went to Fennemore, on Saturday, then to Wisconsin Dells to see Allyson Krause who is in a play there for the summer.

Bev Beckmark

LaVonne O’Brien

Brad Krause went with the Leef family camping in Black River Falls.

Kathryn and Bryan Krause are at the Wood Lake Bible Camp this week.

Fran Krause attended the HCE board meeting on Tuesday.

Pam and Brad Peterson attended a party for Brad Schanke in Menasha on Saturday.

Spencer Peterson attended a concert in Eau Claire over the weekend.

The Webster all-school reunion was well attended on Thursday at Ike Walton’s.

Friday and Sunday Charles and Elaine Scott and Edna Greeson had lunch with Maxine Stone. They also attended the memorial service for Barbara Ball on Saturday.

Tuesday LaVonne O’Brien met her six cousins in North Branch, Minn. Jack O’Brien attended his class reunion at the home of Don Guness. Sunday Jack and LaVonne and Mike and Tylyn O’Brien attended the sixth birthday party for Rylee O’Brien at her home.

Dewey - LaFollette 468-2940

Karen Mangelsen

Congratulations to Laura and Dennis Formanek on the birth of their third child, Joshua David. He was born July 11, weighed 8 lbs., 14 oz. and was 21-1/2 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Nettie and Duane Otis.

Barb and Wally Thompson, Heidi Mangelsen’s mother and brother, left Tuesday morning after spending several days in their camper at the Mangelsen Farm. Larry, Heidi, Celie and Baxter Mangelsen spent the week vacationing here and in Duluth, Minn. They went home to River Falls on Saturday.

Judy Albee visited Don and Sharlene Strabel Tuesday evening.

Wednesday supper guests of Ronda and Maynard Mangelsen were Jean, Terry, Brin, Bria and Bryce Williamson, Duane and Nettie Otis, Mike, Nancy and Ethan Longhenry, and Ethan’s friend, Richard, and Hank and Karen Mangelsen. Larry and Celie Mangelsen, Judy Albee and Sue Mroszak came later. They all helped Maynard celebrate his birthday.

Justin Hines and his friend, Dan, were at the Hines cabin Monday through Thursday last week. They visited Donna and Gerry Hines several times.

Karen and Hank Mangelsen visited Nina and Lawrence Hines Thursday evening.

Judy Albee visited Beverly Brunclik Friday evening.

Don and Lida Nordquist went to the Phipps Theater in Menomonie Friday evening with Joleen and Richard Funk and family. They saw the play “Grease.”

A large number of friends and relatives surprised Mark Knoop at the band shell in the Shell Lake Park on Saturday afternoon. The party was in honor of his 40th birthday.

Saturday evening, Don Schleiss and Judy Albee visited Roger and Sue Mroszak.

Lawrence and Nina Hines made a trip to Richfield, Minn., Sunday to visit family members.

Sunday afternoon, Maynard and Ronda Mangelsen went to the Shell Lake Park to attend the birthday party for their great-nephew, Alijah Mangelsen. A number of other relatives and friends were there also. Alijah turned 6.

Sunday was a busy day for Judy Albee and Don Schleiss. They were dinner guests of Beth and Garry Crosby, and then stayed for the family baby shower for Chad and Ashley Crosby. Later in the afternoon, they visited Duane Albee at his cabin. In the evening, Don and Judy were visitors of Dean and Virginia Elken.

Nina and Lawrence Hines visited Lida and Don Nordquist Sunday evening.

Word has been received of the death of Reta Bakker, 79, formerly of Hertel. She has lived in Texas for the last 20 years. Sympathy is extended to the family.

Academic news ROCHESTER, Minn. – Rochester Community and Technical College is pleased to announce its spring semester 2008 dean’s list. The following students have achieved a grade-point average between 3.0 and 4.0 for courses completed in the fall semester ending this past December. RCTC congratulates these individuals who reside in your community for their outstanding academic performance. Rochester Community and Technical College serves over 7,500 students a year in diploma and degree programs.

Grantsburg - Cari Lynn Skifstad.

••• Andrew Jensen, a 2003 graduate of Unity High School, has been elected to the New York University chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the academic honor society. Jensen graduated magna cum laude from NYU, having been named to the dean’s list every semester he attended. Currently, he is studying at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. He has been an occasional contributor to the Leader, most recently in the July 16 issue, and was a member of the Leader’s Community Voices project. Jensen is the son of Richard Jensen and Kathryn Kienholz of rural Milltown. – submitted

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

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Birth announcements Born at Amery Regional Medical Center:

A girl, Navaeh Jade Koch, born July 8, 2008, to Erin Waller and Brandon Koch, Amery. Navaeh weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz.

••• A girl, MaKayla Audrey Parker, born July 8, 2008, to Nicole Christensen and Jeremy Parker, St. Croix Falls.

MaKayla weighed 6 lbs.

••• A boy, Ayden David Peterson, born July 8, 2008, to Christy Peterson and David Scanlon, Luck. Ayden weighed 7 lbs., 2-3/4 oz.

••• A girl, Jenica Rae Mesecher, born July 10, 2008, to Britta Westlund and Ryan Mesecher, Amery. Jenica weighed 5lbs., 15 oz.

••• A girl, Jade Carolyn Schallock, born July 10, 2008, to Katherine and Jerret Schallock, Turtle Lake. Jade weighed 6 lbs., 9 oz.

••• A girl, Elsie Jean Marek, born July 13, 2008, to Renee and Joseph Marek, Luck. Elsie weighed 9 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, Caleb LaBathe, born July 15, 2008, to Nicole Petersen and Robert LaBathe, Amery. Caleb weighed 8 lbs., 10-1/2 oz.

••• A girl, Allie Elizabeth Olander, born July 15, 2008, to Jennifer and Joseph Olander, Balsam Lake. Allie weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz.

•••

Born at the Burnett Medical Center:

A girl, Samantha Margaret Kramer, born July 11, 2008, to April and Ben Kramer, Grantsburg. Samantha weighed 8 lbs., 2 oz. and was 19-1/2 inches long. Samantha’s big sister is Madeline. Grandparents are Mary Carder of Ariz., Mark and Sofia Kramer of Illinois, and Al and Bonnie Musselman, Illinios. Great-grandparents are Margaret and Ralph Kramer of Illinois.

••• A girl, Zoe Rose Taylor, born July 11, 2008, to Tyra Gaffney and Justin Taylor, Grantsburg. Zoe weighed 9 lbs., 6 oz. and was 21 inches long.

Grandparents are Greg and Molly Gaffney, Grantsburg and Scott and Tammi Horky, Grantsburg.

Great-grandparents are Marg Taylor, Grantsburg, and Gordy and Janet Harmon, Grantsburg.

••• A girl, Lilianna Louise Collins, born July 16, 2008, to Elizabeth Edaburn and Joseph Collins, Grantsburg. Lilianna weighed 8 lbs., 8 oz. and was 21 inches long. Lilianna has one sibling, Kayson.

Grandparents are Sherry Mesecher and David Edaburn (deceased) of Grantsburg.

Great-grandparents are Harold and Gloria Edaburn, Grantsburg.

•••

Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center:

A girl, McKenna Grace Rooney, born July 1, 2008, to Chrissa Rooney, Luck. McKenna weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A boy, Ayden Christian Shires, born July 9, 2008, to Samantha Chitty and Hank Shires, St. Croix Falls. Ayden weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A boy, Keaton Jay Wollan, born July 9, 2008, to Anne and Jerod Wollan, Amery. Keaton weighed 8 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A boy, Thaddeus Albert Zaborowski, born July 12, 2008, to Steven and Melissa Zaborowski, Grantsburg. Thaddeus weighed 8 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A boy, Aidan Michael Gillespie, born July 14, 2008, to Crystal Hamilton and Sean Gillespie, Milltown. Aidan weighed 8 lbs., 5 oz.

••• A girl, Khloie Renae Coen, born July 14, 2008, to Amanda Coen, Siren. Khloie weighed 6 lbs., 9 oz.

••• A boy, Wyatt James Burrows, born July 14, 2008, to Kari Jo and Tim Burrows, Osceola. Wyatt weighed 9 lbs.

••• A boy, Jackson Arthur Wester, born July 15, 2008, to Terry Wester, Centuria. Jackson weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz.

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Lewis

Sheila Staples and Rick Abrahamzon attended the 80th birthday celebration on Saturday for Catherine Olson at the Clam Falls Lutheran Church.

Sheila and Rick were part of the program presented for their former elementary teacher, Mrs. Olson.

Sheila Staples attended the Siren High School Class of 1988 reunion at the Pour House on Saturday evening.

Sheila and the late Tom Stendall were the class advisors.

Sheila had not seen some of the students since they had graduated 20 years ago.

LaVerne Leep joined Jean Hill and her girls on Friday, July 18, going to the Red Barn Theater, Rice Lake. They enjoyed the play “Over the River and Through the Woods.”

On Saturday, LaVerne visited with daughter, Diane, of Hutchinson, Minn., at the annual Ackland family picnic in Crooked Lake Park, Siren. In the afternoon, she and Irene Chasensky drove to the Cushing Lutheran Church for the 50th wedding anniversary party of their cousin, Barb and Bill Kurtz.

The D.O.G.s held their last session for the children’s summer session last Wednesday. Teachers and children will enjoy a brief vacation, hoping to continue in the fall.

A new banner is being worked on with a student’s name on each paw print. Marlene Nelson came up with the design and it is very eye-catching. Dave Gorranson drew a

Bernice Abrahamzon

design for the T-shirt with a St. Bernard dog carrying a Bible on his neck. Very fetching.

The beautiful springer spaniel found at the Frederic Golf Course has been treated at the animal shelter in Burnett County and may possibly be up for adoption soon unless the owner claims him and pays the price for his care and treatment.

Sundays bring a certain repetition with flowers on the altar, volunteers who serve a month in certain capacity, a choir number, children’s message and pastor’s message.

Happy birthday was sung to JoAnn Gibbs. Cake was served by John and LaVonne Boyer.

The navy blue Charles E. Lewis buttons are here and for sale. They are numbered, and may bring prizes to those with lucky owners. Cash and merchandise will be prizes. The drawing is a Lewis community project. Questions? Call Patty at Sundown Bar on Hwy. 35. A list of winners will be posted late Sunday afternoon, Aug. 10, on business places in Lewis and on the church door.

This coming weekend you are invited to the 41st-annual rock and mineral show at the Frederic High School, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Lots to see, lots to tempt you and lots to buy. Register for free prizes.

Games for children, too.

A & H Seniors via Illinois It’s time to let you know what goes on here in Illinois.

Nothing unless you include tornadoes, rain and growing grass. The neighbors are still mowing and mowing. My bushes in front are getting bigger and bigger, so soon they will cover the house and I will become invisible.

I just got back from a week in Maui. It is beautiful there.

The days were glorious and the sunsets beyond description.

A golf course meandered past the place so an occasional golf cart went by. Since I don’t play, I was amused at the way it went. Golf cart pulls up, man gets out, selects a club – and here it gets murky – walks up to ball, fiercely swings an average of three times, then hits the ball at least four feet. It’s back to the cart, drive those few feet, get out and swing like crazy before hitting the ball again. Now, what I need to know is why all those desperate swings before actually hitting the ball. Are all the guys just beginners? Don’t they know the game? How long does it take?

My daughter and son-in-law rented a condo facing west.

They were there for a month, and I was told to pick a week. What a place. We dubbed it the rich guy’s house.

Everything you needed or wanted was supplied down to plum wine, which I always wanted even though I didn’t know it. There were five plums at the bottom of the bottle, which I ate after drinking the wine. The first didn’t taste all that good, but by the time I got to the fifth, it tasted like an inebriated olive, and I love olives.

There was full moon the night we went on a booze cruise. Also an astrology lecture. The little dipper was not visible from so far south which threw me off as how to find the north start. The lecturer had a beam gizmo which shot a light beam maybe 200 feet into space which enabled her

Joyce Kirchhoff

to actually circle the planets. I really want one of those things. I don’t know what I’d do with it, but I only know I want one.

The only problem going to Hawaii is the long plane ride.

On the way there, the captain came on the intercom, “We have hit some turbulence, so remain in your seat.” Well, I happened to be in the lavatory at the time, so, what to do.

Remain in my seat or, despite my captain, stagger down the aisle grabbing heads, shoulders or whatever as I returned to 13D. What a dilemma I’d gotten myself into – and I’ll not tell you what I did.

The art class should know I did a few paintings. Watercolor, and they turned out beautiful as the setting provided.

I also pressed flowers as I still make cards.

I got a call from Cathy Van Den Tillaar. She sounded good, but still needs prayers. I miss her. Caroline Osborn called to see if I am coming up and when. I do plan a trip in September. With the gas prices way up there, this just might be my last trip. Sad for me.

I heard from Bill McInis, who was my bridge partner at Voyager. Herb and Pat Daiglish had given me his address, which was lost for one year in my car, which shows how often I clean it, so I wrote to him and he answered. How neat is that?

I was so sorry to hear Hazel Chelmo passed. She was one of my favorite people, and a member of our art class.

Marion Woodard keeps me informed. Orris Haraldson and I talked. He said Esther broke some vertebrae, so it was painful for her to move. I suggested he not tell her any of his jokes. It would be the kind thing to do. I will go visit them when I come up.

Take care of each other and say a few prayers for Cathy.

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 866-4334 Our sunny center looks even better with new flooring installed in the dining area by Northwest Interiors. Gratitude is extended to Ken Hayes and Dave Wardean for moving the chairs and tables and putting wood trim around edges of the new flooring. We will be getting rubber tips to put on the bottoms of the chair legs so they won’t accidentally scratch the floor.

Dime Bingo was not played on Wednesday afternoon due to the Burnett County Aging/Nutrition Program annual picnic being held at Siren Crooked Lake Park. Despite early morning showers and threats of more rain, the day turned out nice any sunny and a beautiful breeze was coming across the lake to make the temperature just right.

The picnic foods were prepared by all four nutrition sites from Grantsburg, Siren, Webster and A & H, and everything tasted delicious.

At 3 p.m., on Wednesday afternoon, coffee, cake and punch was served in the Burnett Community Library conference room to honor Mary Huot, volunteer and Friend of the Library member, on her recent engagement with a nice gift and cards. Mary will be getting married in the fall and then moving to her new home in Cleveland, Ohio. She has volunteered at the library since its first beginnings in a little red cabin near Crossroads on Hwys. 35/70. We will miss you Mary!

The Webster Lioness Club met at the Webster Community Center on Thursday evening for their regular monthly dinner meeting, with the delicious meal catered

by Marilyn Meyer of Emily’s Luncheon. As part of their new business they made plans for having a two-day bake sale and selling hot beef sandwiches on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 8 and 9, during Gandy Dancer Days.

Pool players Harold Peterson, Ken Hayes, Chuck Lehman, Dave Wardean and Pat O’Brien were happy to have Earl Boelter join them for Thursday night games, while wife Bernie Boelter played cards with Margel Ruck and Donna Lehman.

Several people told me they had a great time getting reacquainted with old friends at the Webster all-school re-

Webster Senior Center union luncheon on Thursday at Ike Walton Lodge, in addition to the Class of 1958 reunion held there on Friday evening. I had planned on going, too, but circumstances kept me away, and I’m sorry I missed out.

I was very thankful to have Denny Blodgett and his crew of Ingerfaith Caregivers workers come to my home with chain saws in hand on Saturday morning and they made short work of cutting up the oak trees that were blown down in the storm last week. I know the wood will surely warm somebody’s home this winter, and I am very grateful to have the mess cleaned up.

On Saturday afternoon, 70 ladies came together at Grace United Methodist Church, Webster, for their fourthannual high tea. Hostess Sharon Boatman welcomed everyone and then a trio made up of Lucy Basler, Janet McInroy and Ardis Sawyer sang “Lift Up Thine Eyes” and “We Raise Up Our Voices In Song.” After the blessing, a menu of cranberry quencher, cranberry scones with Devonshire cream, cold strawberry soup, fruity chicken tossed salad, butter horn rolls, Better than Robert Redford Dessert, and, of course, copious amounts of tea was served. It was wonderful to be served by the gentlemen servers; Wes Blake, Dave Boatman, Dan Brown, Denny Christianson, Randy Klink, Roy Rockvam, Ed Weber, Jerry Wilson, and our own table server, Peter Rockvam, who we thought was the best. And we can’t forget Tom Auer and Paul Saugestad working in the kitchen. The ladies trio also sang “I Can Sing a Rainbow” and “Let the Lower Lights be Burning.” After the parade of hats, there were drawings for many door prizes. The beautiful floral centerpieces were put together by Marge Swedberg and daughters Angie and Pam from donated flowers from the gardens of members. In closing, the ladies trio sang “The Lord Bless You and Keep You.” There was a fabulous display of antique dolls, toys, pictures and rocking horse, and the wedding dress that belonged to Dianne Gravesen’s mother, Helen Lumberg-Larson. Dennis Christianson brought the 1909 Edison gramophone with music rolls that was owned by his grandfather, August Christianson. He

Cloverton-Markville Perhaps most of us who live out here in the little townships of Arna and New Dosey would agree that the most pleasant part of our day is the time when we are tucked away on our land, off the beaten path of the town and county roads. Just being at home and working with gardens, pets, flowers and farms is what fulfills us.

Allen and Marge Wolf have had a group of cottontail rabbits in their yard for several weeks now and are becoming concerned about the gray fox that seems to be trailing the little critters.

Eleanor and Mel Elliott really appreciated all of the help they got from teenager grandson Matthew Picton when he came up from Milltown to help them put up hay for a week.

Of course, Matt took some time off to see his cousin Clinton.

With the help of Ron Moser, Jan and Ed Proffit have got a good jump on their summer haying season. They did have one minor breakdown in machinery, but it only took Ed and Ron a couple of hours to get it fixed.

The 14 baby calves that Ed picked up at the Mora farm sales barn awhile back have been both fun and work for the Carlins. Besides keeping the little wobblies fed, they too have been putting up hay. Bev has to leave a few days weekly to work at her job as the food supervisor at the Correctional Incarceration Program in Middle River. She said she loves her job, but prefers to be back on the farm.

Mary Klar played one roll “Til We Meet Again” and it was awesome to hear. High tea committee members Audrey Auer, Brenda Christianson, Dianne Gravesen, Liz Saugestad, Marge Swedberg, Angie Swedberg and Sharon Boatman are to be commended for putting on such a fantastic event.

I can’t wait until next year! Jerry and Elaine Wilson were celebrating their 39th wedding anniversary and everyone sang “Happy Anniversary” to them.

Thelma Klugow was happy to be taken out for dinner on Sunday afternoon by her grandson, Tom Glugow, of Osceola.

Our get-well wishes and prayers go to Sue Becker, Jim Muus, Antone and Jeremy Gronski, Vi Swanson and Karl Rachner. Our sympathy and prayers also go out to the families of Emma Fornengo and Madeline Winchester in their recent passing.

Walter Bouman, a retired seminary professor, learned that his cancer had spread throughout his body and he had less than nine months to live. He had a very good sense of humor and liked to quote comedian Johnny Carson “It is true that for several days after you die, your hair and fingernails keep on growing, but the phone calls taper off?” In addition to his humor, he had something far deeper that sustained his soul. He said of his greatest source of encouragement, “The Christian good news is that Jesus has been raised from death, that death no longer has dominion over him. I have bet my living, and now I bet my dying, that Jesus will have the last word.”

For every today we are given, the inevitable tomorrow will come, but we don’t have to be afraid. Jesus is with all who trust Him, and He will have the last word. “To Him I trust my soul, my dust, when flesh and spirit sever; the Christ we sing has plucked the sting away from death forever.” – Anon. “Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” – John 11:25-26. See you at the center!

Fran Levings Deloris Schirmer had Lakes Gas Company come out to do a safety exam for her, and she was glad she did, because they found two minor leaks and fixed them.

The Ellwin family picked up Clara Lilly on Wednesday and took her with them to a cookout at the home of their daughter and son-in-law, Jessie and Tim McClennon, in Sandstone.

Since he does not use any chemical weed killers in his garden, my husband, Dave Baker, spends a considerable amount of time weeding his vegetables, and I do likewise with my flower gardens.

Get rid of those weeds, wherever you are.

Amery Senior Center

by Kari Fladwood, director It’s funny, when I was a kid, it seemed like time just drug on forever – I thought I would never be a grownup. Now it seems like I am doing everything I can to make time slow down, and I think it just speeds up the harder I try! Summer is going by so fast, and I haven’t even taken out the fishing pole yet.

But there is a lot going on here at the center – every day there are several activities and events going on, so if you haven’t been here in a while, you should stop down! Even if there isn’t a special group activity that you want to partake in, you are always welcome to just come down, watch TV or a movie on our big-screen TV, play a Wii game, (bring a buddy!) sit with a book in one of our comfy chairs or just put a puzzle together. You are always welcome to use the center as your own personal getaway.

Next time you are here you will have to look at the new/old pictures we have in our hallway! The Amery Historical Society has put together a group of “Old

Amery” pictures and were gracious enough to give them to the Amery Senior Center. We are still in process of having some of them framed, but we have about eight up already. My, how things change! I love old pictures. Special thanks to Ann and Orville Wike for getting the pictures framed and hung – you both mean so much to me and to the center. Thanks for all you do!

We had a nice turnout at our July birthday party – thanks to our “birthday crew” for putting it together: Judith Alles, “The Loises” - Lois Lovegren and Lois Lovgren, Wendell and Ginny Anderson and also Amy Johnson for taking blood pressure (mine wasn’t that bad that day!) and Carol Osterloh and Paul Kuhnley for entertaining us by playing the piano and banjo.

Our Scrap N Stampers group meets here on the first and third Tuesdays at 6 p.m. - they always have a ton of fun! You can bring your projects from home to work on, use some of the many supplies that we have here, or take part in one of the make-and-take projects that our demonstrators have available. We are also starting a

day-version of this class in September – they will be meeting the second and fourth Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. here at the center. Any member is welcome to come, and for you nonmembers, all you have to do is become a member for $12 and you can join in the fun!

Don’t forget we have trips to Branson, Door County and the Metrodome to see the Twin’s game – contact the center or go to www.ameryasc.org to get details!

Carl Johnson won first place at our weekly pool tournament, with Paul Seidel in second, Mary Fisher third and Virgil in fourth. Ed O’Neill won first place in the bowling tournament with a score of 637, with Carl Johnson in second and Jerry Fisher third. Bev Kjeseth was first in Monday Bridge, with Sydney Lund in second, and last but certainly not least, Shirley Staebler was first in Wednesday Bridge, with Sandy Thorn second, Dorothy Mueller third, Pricilla Peterson fourth and Jim Thorn in fifth.

Have a great week, everyone! God bless you all.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Frederic Senior Center Monday, July 17, Spades was played at 1 p.m., with the following winners: Arnie Borchert in first place, Hazel Hoffman in second place, Ed Berdal in third place and Shirley Sandquist in fourth place.

Tuesday, Whist was enjoyed.

Wednesday, Pokeno as always, is an enjoyable time.

Thursday night, 500 cards at 6:30 p.m., with the follow-

ing winners: Inez Pearson in first place, Hazel Hoffman in second place, Mildred Ihrig in third place and Bill Ihrig in fourth place.

FridayPokeno card players had a good time together.

Saturday we had fish buffet, which we all enjoyed. Cards and fellowship followed.

We will be taking care of the Polk County Fair senior

Ardyce Knauber building on Friday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Stop and see us. We will have cookies to go with your coffee and see our exhibit board and sign up for door prizes. The theme this year is Barn to be Wild.

Remember to include humor in your life, you will enjoy yourself and live longer too.

Luck Senior Center Hope you all are having a wonderful summer. I love seeing all the well-manicured lawns and beautiful flowers when I’m out driving around.

Lucky Days at the center went very well. We sold out of everything, and speaking of being lucky, I sure was. I won the first-place prize of $50 in the drawing and Eva Hansen won the second-place prize of $25. All in all, it turned out to be a great day.

Of course, it wasn’t a great day for the parade. It rained on the parade, so they had to cancel it. And with the rain, I didn’t have to water my plants.

Trudy, the foot lady, will be at the center on Thursday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. To make an appointment, call 715-472-8285.

We will not be having our monthly potluck birthday get together for July due to the Polk County Fair.

Shirley Lund Sorry to hear one of our members, Dale Hostnet, is in the Rice Lake Hospital.

Don’t forget Tuesday at the movies, Tuesday, Aug. 5, at 1 p.m. Come have lunch at noon and stay for the movie with free popcorn.

That’s all for now.

Remember: If life gives you limes, just rearrange the letters and smile!

St. Croix Valley Senior Center On Tuesday afternoon Domino winners were: Ione Meixner in first place, Janice Mevissen in second place and Deloris Benson in third place. 500 card winners were: Jim Anderson in first place, Don Benson in second place, Darlene Knutson in third place, Cliff Qualle in fourth place and Irene Campbell in fifth place.

Life is for living, it’s yours to enjoy. So live each day to the fullest. Spending each moment as if it were your only moment to spend. Discover the world, see for yourself, what magnificent treasures it holds, adventure that’s yours

for the taking and dreams that are yours to pursue. Learn to appreciate little things the smallest of life’s precious gifts: a crisp autumn breeze, s sunset of gold and the roar of the sea in a shell. Give of yourself to those around you, partake of the joy that it brings, when you offer a hand, or an understand heart, or share an encouraging word. Seek out a place to be all alone, where only nature can find you, be at peace with yourself. Take time to consider the meaning and wonder of life.

We worked on our senior float on Friday, getting it ready

for another trip down the road. Our theme was Walking for Life and Back to the ‘50s with Elvis and the poodle skirts.

The parade was very nice. The fireworks were great and the weather turned out just right for the evening of fun.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: Don Benson in first place, Dave Anderson in second place, Ray Nelson in third place and Jeanne Thomfohrda in fourth place.

Have a great week!

Interstate Park news Naturalist programs at Wisconsin Interstate Park Friday, July 25 3 p.m. – Ancient Abandoned Riverbeds. Take a trip back in time on the Meadow Valley Trail. Meet naturalist Barb Walker at the Meadow Valley Trail sign near the Beach parking lot for a short hike up the valley.

Saturday, July 26 2 p.m. – The Owl and the Mouse! Meet Aztec, a live South American spectacled owl, and play a game that illustrates the exceptional hearing of some nocturnal creatures that have the best hearing of any animals on Earth. A fun activity for the entire family. Meet at the First I want to thank the U.S. Bank who presented us with a check for $4,200. This was the result of a grant that was written by Interfaith Caregivers. This check will do so much for so many. It will help with Christmas for Kids, to put up wheelchair ramps and do home repairs and maybe even get our store going. Again, we thank the generosity of the U.S. Bank.

It is 5 p.m., in the afternoon and I am actually writing my column in the daylight instead of in the middle of the night. Yippee! Maybe I am almost normal. By the way, what is normal? I may have been all along or I may not be at all. Enough with the riddles, on to the show.

Speaking of buildings. We need a building to rent. Long-term rent, lots of room, and cheap! We want to open a thrift store and we want to do it near or along Hwy. 35 if possible. If anyone knows of a place, please let us know.

Call me at 866-4970. Please call. I often wondered why we built our home with a formal living and dining room. We never or hardly ever used them and the 15-year-old furniture looks brand-new because it has probably been used a half-dozen times. Now I know what

grassy area in the center of the North Campground.

4 p.m. – Molten Lava and Melted Ice. Learn about the Gee Whiz Geology of Interstate Park. A scenic hike, which begins at the Pothole Trail sign.

7 p.m. – Snakes. Snakes are among the most misunderstood and feared creatures on earth. Stop by the Ice Age Center and visit with naturalist Barb Walker and learn more about these amazing reptiles. You will also have an opportunity to meet two live snakes.

Wednesday, July 20 2 p.m. – Hike to the Summit. Join the naturalist for a short hike up the Summit Rock Trail. Learn fascinating facts about the history and geology of the area and

those rooms were for.

There are probably 20 bags and 15 boxes of clothes that are being sorted and boxed and labeled for storage in my living room and dining room, until we have a building we can make into a Blodgett store. I’m begging, I need a building, and I need my useless rooms back. I need to see my carpet again and my cats are going crazy because their favorite couches are under piles of clothing. My dogs just watch in wonder. I think they think their mother is crazy and I am not sure they are wrong. I have to be nuts to put up with all of this. Not crazy, just desperate for someplace we can call a store. Then there will be a contest to think of a name. Interfaith or Caregivers has to be part of it, but I am getting way ahead of myself.

In the midst of all of this chaos we

Barb

Caregiver's

Gifts

see spectacular views of the St. Croix River. Meet at the Summit Rock Trail sign.

Thursday, July 31 10 a.m. – Nature Story Time. Join naturalists Julie Fox or Barb Walker for a story and activity chosen especially for children pre-K through kindergarten and their parents. Check at the park office upon arrival for program location.

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

are selling and giving away clothes and furniture at the storage units on CTH U. Just behind the Oakland store. Left or right off of Hwy. 35 depending on which way you are going, south or north. Donations are going to the storage units or coming to our house. We pick up within a 30-mile range. Our old truck only gets 12 miles to the gallon while pulling a trailer and with gas prices the way they are....well, we are willing to meet someone half way. Call 866-4970 if you have a donation for Interfaith Caregivers. Donations can be clothes, household goods, furniture, and etc. and of course, money or new toys or clothes for our kids who need gifts for Christmas. Christmas for Kids is a big deal around here. Ask anyone who has received gifts at Christmas.

People who won’t have a Christmas can get one because of the generosity of those who donate to us.

We are having a rummage sale on Labor Day weekend. It will be at the Webster Community Center and will benefit Helping Hands - Christmas for Kids. With the help of volunteers, you will be able to come and shop without too much “rummaging” around. There will be a terrific bake sale too. We need

donations of baked goods. Call Gladys Beers ( the Bake Sale Lady) at 866-4392 or Theresa Gloege ( the other Bake Sale Lady) at 866-4240 and let them know you will bake. I’ll tell you one thing, my father-in-law will be the first at the bake sale table to get the goodies. He will be the one with the cane and his hands full of cookies, pies, breads and whatever else he can see (that man has a real sweet tooth). You will recognize him. You have to hurry before he buys everything. The exact dates and times will be published as we get closer to the date.

Well, seeing as it is dinnertime, I am off to create something so tasty my husband (Denny) and father-in-law (Ben) will ohhh and ahhh over the food. I only have about one-half hour. I guess I had better get creative. Where is one of those TV chefs when you need one.

Enjoy summer. Stay cool. I’ll be back next month and until then, God bless.

Barbara Blodgett Director of Interfaith Caregivers of Burnett County icburnettcounty@centurytel.net

St. Croix ArtBarn presents “The Gillygaloo” OSCEOLA – Have you even seen or heard a Gillygaloo? What about a Hodag, a Jackelope or a Splinter Cat? St. Croix ArtBarn presents the original children’s play, “The Gillygaloo,” Friday and Saturday, July 25 and 26, and Thursday through Saturday, July 31, Aug. 1 and Aug. 2, 7 p.m. Inspired by true tales

told by the loggers of pioneer days, audience members will be asked to let their creative minds and imaginations run free as they encounter these mythical creatures from the Northwoods of 100 years ago.

The 17 member cast includes Emma Drury and Linnaea Wallis, Dresser; Amy

Foss and Timothy Kromer, Marine; McKenzie Boerboom, Clarissa Cleven, Forrest Cleven, Emily Hall, Melanie Hall, Destiny Lieder, Ahna Mayo, Sofia Mayo, Allison McKusick, Emily Raffesberger and Adam Solsrud, Osceola; Briza King, St. Croix Falls; and Abby Williamson, Somerset.

For general admission tickets call 715294-2787 or visit www.stcroixartbarn.com ArtBarn is located at 1040 Oak Ridge Drive, one block east of Hwy. 35, next to the Osceola middle and high schools. Tickets are $12 adults; $10, seniors; and $8 students. submitted

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Milltown Public Library The card is key Please bring your library card with you to the library. With it, you can log right on to one of our six fast computer stations without having to wait in line at the front desk. Our new computer log-in system will help us provide better service to everyone at the library. We greatly appreciate your patience with this new improvement to our computers.

Parenting discussion group The Milltown Llibrary will host a weekly parenting discussion circle starting Tuesday, Aug. 5, at 6:30 p.m. Each week, this group’s discussions will relate to a different chapter from the book “Parenting for Peace and Justice,” by James and Kathleen McGinnis, published in 1990. This secular discussion circle is free and open to all parents. Free, on-site childcare will be provided (although the baby sitters may appreciate a small tip). The discussion circle will meet every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for eight weeks, Aug. 5 through Sept. 30. Parents are encouraged to attend as many of the meetings as possible, but not required to attend every week; likewise, reading the book is encouraged but not required. Copies of the book will be available at the Milltown Public Library.

Summer reading program Catch the reading buzz at the Milltown Public Library this summer. Kids 18 and under can win awesome prizes by registering for the summer reading program. The more you read, the more you can win. Every Friday we’ll give away valuable gift certificates to use at local businesses, and at the end of the summer, we’ll hold a grand prize drawing for an iPod and other exciting

prizes to be announced later. Also, every participant who turns in 10 reading record sheets will get a cool T-shirt. There will also be a weekly contest called Who Wants to be the Next Entymologist?

Summer reading program events: free admission • Saturday, Aug. 2, 1 p.m.: “A La Carte” puppet show by Circus Minimus • Friday, Aug. 29, 5 p.m.: Grand prize iPod Touch drawing. Door prizes will be given to those present at the grand prize drawing!

Gamers club Play with the new Wii until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This is only open to high school and middle school teenagers who have a library card with under $10 in fines. During summer vacation, the Wii will be available from 3:30 until 7 p.m. every Thursday.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast, wireless Internet access. No library card necessary!

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 10 a.m. year-round. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and closed Sunday.

Amery Public Library “When You are Engulfed in Flames,” by David Sedaris David Sedaris, humorist and commentator on National Public Radio, has put together another collection of essays following his popular “Me Talk Pretty One Day” and “Dress Your Family in Coruroy and Denim.”

Sedaris says he is the master of nothing but will talk about anything.

Part of this essay collection concerns Sedaris’ attempt to stop smoking, in Toyko of all places, another essay details his difficulty keeping up when he and his partner, Hugh who walk at very different paces, travel to various spots around the globe.

Sedaris talks about his encounter with a dingo, how to buy a human skeleton and tells more than the reader wants to know about parasitic worms. Sedaris can make the reader chortle at the most bizarre things.

In the summer months, it is nice to have a book you can pick up and put down, so this is a great answer for a book to read in short bursts. Sedaris’ dry humor may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but this reviewer thoroughly enjoyed it. Since it was No. 1 on the nonfiction bestseller list, as this is written, somebody else did as well.

liance returns with songs, folktales and audience-participation stories. These programs are at 10:30 a.m. Come early and pick a spot, please leave an aisle so people can exit with little criers.

We have 332 children participating in the summer reading program. Remember that story time on the road is continuing at 5 p.m. on Monday evenings under the big tree behind the Twin Pines Apartments on Minneapolis Avenue. Stop in for stories and crafts with Kaitlyn and Christinia.

Otaku Club is meeting every Tuesday over the summer for teens and older who like manga and anime. Stop in and check it out if you are a teen.

Teens Read book group meets on Monday, July 28, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to discuss “I Am Legend,” by Richard Matheson. This classic sci-fi thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat. Join us if you are a teen. Pick up a book at the circulation desk.

Fundraiser T-shirts are for sale for $15 at the desk. They say The Amery Area Public Library - The Next Chapter. Proceeds go toward the library expansion. Look ahead to the Ameryopoly game, which is in production coming in the fall.

Library notes Catch the Reading Bug continues at the Amery Public Library. We loved The Caterpillar Hunter, Traveling Lantern Theatre’s take on our summer theme. On July 30, Nothandu Zulu of the Black Storyteller’s Al-

Library hours Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009.

Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Contact the library at 715-755-2944 which is our telephone and fax number or e-mail us at www.dresserpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org has information about story times, days closed, reference links, library policy and community information.

Osceola Public Library

Clear Lake Public Library

Gratitude is extended to David Weber of Weber Apiary in Clayton. Over 70 people learned a lot about honeybees and enjoyed a sample of honey.

Gratitude is also extended to the former Amery Farmers Union Cooperative of Amery and Clear Lake for donating money to the library. We have purchased the following books: “Essential Guide to Calving: Giving Your Beef or Dairy Herd a Healthy Start,” by Heather Smith Thomas “ The Home Creamery,” by Kathy FarrellKingsley “Horse Health and Nutrition for Dummies,” by Audrey Pavia “Humane Livestock Handling: Understanding Livestock Behavior and Building Facilities for Healthier Animals,” by Temple Grandin “Sheep: Small Scale Sheep Keeping for Pleasure and Profit,” by Sue Weaver “The Soul of a Horse: Life Lessons from the Herd,” by Joe Camp (The staff of Clear Lake Public Library recommends this book!)

“Storey’s Barn Guide to Sheep” “Beef Cattle: Keeping a Small Scale Herd for Pleasure and Profit,” by Ann Larkin Hansen Gratitude is also extended to the Clear Lake Community Club for donating money to the library! The following books have

been purchased for our Summer Reading Program, Catch the Reading Bug: “Diving Beetles” “Bees” “Do Bees Make Butter?”

“Night Fliers” “Strange Dances and Long Flights” “The Dragonfly” “The World’s Most Dangerous Bugs” “Social Insects” Catch the Reading Bug Thursday, July 24, 10 a.m.: Lucky Ladybugs Wednesday, July 30, 6:30 p.m. and Thursday, July 31, 10 a.m.: Ants in my Pants Come and enjoy stories, craft time and snack time!

Coming events Monday, July 28, 6:30 p.m., we will be showing “Spiderwick Chronicles,” PG. Come and watch it on the big screen and enjoy popcorn and lemonade.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday: 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m.

- 2 p.m.; Friday: noon - 5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. We can be reached by phone at 715-263-2802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Osceola Public Library Book discussion “Fortress of Solitude,” by Jonathan Lethem, will be discussed on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 6 p.m. As Lethem follows the knitting and unraveling of a boyhood friendship, he creates an overwhelmingly rich and emotionally gripping canvas of race and class, superheroes, gentrification, funk, hip-hop, graffiti tagging, loyalty and memory.

Summer reading program July schedule: Thursday, July 24 – 3 p.m.: Bat Lady. She’ll share the myths and realities of bats.

Wednesday, Aug. 6 – 6 p.m.: Family story time: Bring on the Butterflies.

Thursday, Aug. 7 – 3 p.m.: Frogs, Toads and Salamanders. Hold them, feed them, listen to them sing.

Wednesday, Aug. 13 – 6 p.m.: Family story

time: Wormy! With special guest hula-hooper Esther Welsh.

Thursday, Aug. 14 – 3 p.m.: Hula-Hooping Performance and Workshop Friday, Aug. 15 – 5 p.m.: Teen Bug Film submissioin due.

Preschool story time Preschoolers and an accompanying adult are invited to join in the fun and stories every Thursday morning at 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

Polk County Library Federation We just received our new young adult rotation materials and will be sending the books and books-on-CDs out to the Polk County libraries. Some noteworthy titles are “The Boxer and the Spy,” by Robert Parker, 15-year-old Terry, an aspiring boxer, uncovers the mystery behind the unexpected death of a classmate. “Princess Ben,” by Catherine Gilbert Murdock, a girl is transformed, through instruction in life at court, determination, and magic, from sullen, pudgy, graceless Ben into Crown Princess Benevolence, a fit ruler of the kingdom of Montagne as it faces war with neighboring Drachensbett.

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian,” by Sherman Alexie, a boy leaves his reservation for an all-white school. If these books sound interesting to you check them out at your local library.

For further information, contact the library at 715-485-8680. The director is Colleen Gifford, assistant director/youth services is Molly Kessler, and the library clerk is Stephanie Fansler.

The Polk County Library Federation is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The libaries have just received new young adult rotation materials. Stop in at your local library if you are interested in checking out any rotating books.

Frederic Public Library

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

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS

Centuria Public Library Centuria Book Club to meet Mark you calendars for Monday, July 28, 10 a.m., when the book club at the Centuria Public Library meets. We will be discussing the book “The Tortilla Curtain,” by T.G. Boyle. This book is the story of two different families in California and brings forth awareness of issues relating to illegal immigration.

Light morning brunch refreshments will be served.

Summer reading at the library Gratitude is extended to everyone who made the Memory Days book sale at the Centuria Public Library such a success.

Many books were donated for the sale and many books sold. Thank you to the volunteers that helped with the sale and to those who helped with the other library activities.

Peter Englund was a great help with the Wii games for those individuals ages 10 to 15.

Barbie and Anna Luepke were great with all of the fancy eyes and cheeks that were

painted on the young folks that wanted to celebrate Memory Days with color. Thank you, again, for your help. I can’t forget my husband, Gary, my assistant, Melissa and her husband, Larry, along with our children, Hillary and Kacey, for helping carry all of the books out for people to purchase.

Reading Bingo continues There is still time to play reading Bingo at the library. Bingo cards are available for everyone to pick up. There are winners every week. The winners for week two are Melissa Johnson in the adult group and Anna Luepke, Ella Luepke, Hallie Jo Thaemert and Henry Thaemert in the childrens group. See you all at the library.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 5 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 7 p.m.; Wednesday: noon - 5 p.m.; Thursday: noon - 7 p.m.; Friday: closed; and Saturday: 10 a.m. - noon.

Luck Public Library Walking, talking books The Friends of the Polk County Libraries participated in Lucky Days at Luck on Saturday, July 19. The group of members, dressed as books, has grown from last year; the walking books library includes “Rainy Day Kisses,” “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows,” “Shrek,” “Sherlock Homes” and “Flower Gardening 1-2-3.” Luck Library supporters were participants as well as Polk County Supervisor Pat Schmidt.

The Friends of the Polk County Libraries is a nonprofit group with 501(c)3 status, formed in 2006 to promote community support of libraries. They also train volunteers to help in local libraries,

develop educational programs, and purchase unique items not within the scope of any one library’s budget. For more information or to attend a meeting, please contact Colleen Gifford, 715-4858584.

Check out the large book sale at the Polk County Fair. The booth will be located in the white building next to the grandstand. The dates of the fair are July 24- 27.

Hours Monday 1-5 p.m., Tuesday 1-8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 1-8 p.m., Friday 1-5 p.m. and Saturday 1 a.m.-noon.

Walking books participate in the Lucky Days Parade July 19. – Photo submitted

Balsam Lake Public Library Gratitude is extended to everyone who helped with all the many tasks of our summer book sale - it was a huge success.

Summer reading program: Catch the Reading Bug Join us from 9 - 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of every month for bugs and gardening fun. Please come to the library and get a brochure on all our summer activities or call 715-485-3215.

Free wireless Internet access Find out what you need to know to connect.

Story time Please join us for story time at 11 a.m. every Wednesday at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks.

New books for August “Damage Control,” by Judith Jance, “Tribute,” by Nora Roberts, “Smoke Screen,” by Sandra Brown, “Devil Bones,” by Kathy Reichs, “Good-Bye and Amen,” by Beth Gutcheon, “Rough Justice,” by Jack Higgins.

“Undiscovered Country,” by Lin Enger. Nonfiction: “Best of Covered Wagon Women,” by Kenneth L. Holmes, “Black Wave,” by John and Jean Silverwood.

Book club August selection is “Double Bind” by Chris Bohjalian. When Laurel Estabrook is attacked while riding her bicycle through Vermont’s back roads, her life is forever changed. Formerly outgoing, Laurel withdraws into her photography, spending all her free time at a homeless shelter. There she meets Bobbie Crocker, a man with a history of mental illness and a box of photographs that he won’t let anyone see. When Bobbie dies, Laurel discovers a deeply hidden secret–a story that leads her far from her old life, and into a cat-and-mouse game with pursuers who claim they want to save her. In a tale that travels between the Roaring ‘20s and the 21st century, between Jay Gatsby’s Long Island and rural New England, bestselling author Chris Bohjalian has written his most extraordinary novel yet. Book club meets Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Balsam Lake Public Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake.

Hours are Monday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us, Web site: www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Frederic Public Library We’ll meet you at the park on Saturday.

The Bassmeister will be at Coon Lake Park on Saturday afternoon, July 26, at 1 p.m. to entertain us with ventriloquism, puppets, balloon animals, and a hands-on exhibit with different fishing “bugs.” The Bassmeister has performed for audiences throughout the country, so mark your calendars and make plans to attend this special event for the whole family. If the weather is bad, the program will be held at the library.

Bee real at the library Everyone is invited to a special event on Thursday, July 31, at 6:30 p.m. at the library.

Local beekeeper Wayne Anderson, and Molly Rushfeldt, Amery High School junior and Polk-Burnett County Beekeepers Association 2008 Honey Queen, will show us some beekeeping tools, honey frames, bees in a jar - and bring honey samples! Learn more about these fascinating insects by attending this entertaining program.

Wednesday story time continues Preschoolers and early elementary children are invited, with their caregivers, to story time at the library on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. for an hour of books, activities, and fun. We’re looking for summer volunteers, and if you would like to read to the children, please talk to a librarian about choosing a date in July or August.

Visit our backyard The summer reading program has generated pictures and projects and poems about

bugs of all kinds, and we encourage you to stop in to see the colorful, buggy backyard in the children’s room. Kids are welcome to join the activities at any time, so make room on your calendar for weekly events including family movies on Mondays at 3 p.m.; preschool story times on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.; and a tweens book club that meets every other Thursday at 3 p.m.

Activities for the book groups The Thursday morning book group will meet Aug. 21, at 10 a.m. to talk about “The Memory Keeper’s Daughter,” by Kim Edwards, the story of the separation of twins at birth and its impact on the family. The evening book group will meet Aug. 21, at 7 p.m. to discuss “One Thousand White Women: the Journals of May Dodd,” by Jim Fergus, historical fiction of the Wild West.

Copies of both books are available at the library, and new members are always welcome. Recharge your mental batteries – join a book group!

Free wireless access available The library offers free wireless Internet access for patrons who bring in their laptops installed with wireless cards - no more waiting to use the public access computers.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West, 715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Summer reading 2008 at the St. Croix Falls Public Library The library is a primary resource for fun and creative learning opportunities for school age children over the summer months. This is an invitation to participate in this summer’s Catch the Reading Bug. Catch the Reading Bug programs began July 1. Kids register for Catch the Reading Bug at the library.

Wednesday, July 30, 6 p.m. – Buzzzz Saturday talk about the book club The book club will meet on Saturday, July 26, at 9:30 am, at the Buzz. The current selection is “Growing Up,” by Russell Baker. ‘’Growing Up’‘ is touching and funny, a hopeless muddle of sadness and laughter that bears a suspicious resemblance to real life...Like all the best humor, Baker’s is grounded in truth and mellowed by a sense of the sadness in things...His laughs are distilled from the juices of life. He draws from a time and a world very much in the American grain: memories of listening to grown-ups

rocking on the porch and sonorously reciting clichés or of Depression evenings in Baltimore spent around the kitchen table with endless talk and cups of coffee. – New York Times Technology Free wireless is available at the library.

Also, visit the library Web site www.stcroixfallslibrary.org to get information on the building project, programs at the library and much, much more!

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. every day except Saturday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Closed on Sunday, 715-483-1777. Check out the library Web site and explore the links – Go to www.stcroixfallslibrary.org

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Cause and remedy for CCD known within four years, a leading scientist predicts Hope in sight A leading scientist predicts that what’s killing the bees nationwide will be known and alleviated very soon.

Honeybees across the nation are dying and disappearing at an alarming rate, due to a lethal disease called Colony Collapse Disorder.

This has government heads and scientists scrambling for solutions, as bees are vital to our agriculture and the economy.

Now the cause and remedy for CCD is in sight.

“I’d say we are within four years of having the main causes understood,” predicted Dr. Keith Delaplane, professor of entomology at the University of Georgia.

Discovering the cause of this deadly disease and alleviating it is “a major thing,” he said. It’s “not to be understated.”

Massive effort Delaplane was awarded a $4.1 million grant from the USDA, and leads a massive coordinated team of 19 scientists from 17 institutions across the U.S. to combat the ill effects of CCD. With this money and manpower, he is confident that within four years his researchers will have “a real good handle on the factors affecting CCD.” Cure versus management Help for the bees won’t come as a cure-all, like antibiotics. The solution will be like “preventive health care, rather than cure-based health care,” Delaplane said. It is preventing health problems before they occur.

This research will also produce new honeybee genetics, stronger bees that can fight the effects of CCD. “We’re going to have genetic-resistant stocks identified and ready for the beekeeping industry to adopt,” he said.

“That’s a crucial component” All of this will be done in four years or less. The federal government thinks less.

Tighter time line “I’d like to give it a tighter timeline,” said Dr. Jeffery PetAnderson tis, lead bee researcher at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“We’re working heavily on a number of fronts.”

Officials in Washington are demanding an end to this war.

“We get this from Congress…what are you doing?” said Pettis. “Well, we’re doing quite a lot.”

There’s no exact date of victory, but “I’m more optimistic than the four-year time line,” he said. “There are some new studies that will be coming on line in the coming year.”

What brings this hope and excitement on defeating CCD is the “coordinated effort” and “new additional funding” said Pettis.

The ultimate victory in this battle may be in four years—or less.

Wayne

The Anderson Report

Not soon enough But some fear that is not soon enough.

“I don’t think the beekeepers can wait four years,” said Pettis. “When they have back-to-back years of 40- to 60-percent losses, they need answers now.”

If this trend continues, “the biggest threat is beekeepers going out of business,” said Pettis. Beekeeping is not the kind of business anyone can step into and take over. It’s not like writing cookbooks.

Hope alive The outlook is questionable. But there is hope.

Beekeepers are a resilient lot, said Joe Traynor, beekeeper, author and owner of Scientific Ag. Company. “I don’t see

Dr. Keith Delaplane, professor of entomology at the University of Georgia, predicts of Colony Collapse Disorder, which is killing the bees, “I’d say we are within four years of having the main causes understood.” – Photo submitted a problem that way.”

Traynor brokers 35,000 hives for pollination in orchard fields. “It’s just a tiny fraction of over a million colonies that are rented for almonds,” he said.

Beekeepers are hanging on, waiting for answers. But researchers already know the leading suspect of CCD. Varroa: No. 1 enemy “Varroa is still basically our number one problem,” said Pettis. “The impacts like viruses and things like that are offshoots of having Varroa in our colonies.”

Varroa mites are a parasites that attach themselves to bees in the hive and then suck their blood and spread viruses in the bee’s body. A large infestation can kill a whole colony.

To battle Varroa mites, beekeepers annually put harsh chemicals into the hives. The toxins are designed to kill mites, not bees. But these contaminant treatments may be aiding the CCD problem.

Toxic chemicals Since the 1980s beekeepers have used EPA-approved toxins to kill pests.

“And we have found in those 20 years

that chemicals and bees are a really bad mix,” said Delaplane. “It doesn’t take an Einstein to figure that out.”

For two decades “we have assumed that the benefit from treating Varroa mites exceeds the risk to the bees,” he said. “Well, a lot of us now are questioning that.”

Honey is also on the table. Researchers are looking at what the bees eat.

The theory is the chemicals beekeepers put into the hives, and the bees get while foraging in fields sprayed with pesticides, gets into the bee’s honey supply and is making them sick.

“We are studying the possibility that honey consumed during the winter may be a contributing factor in the death of some CCD colonies,” said via e-mail, Dr. Nancy Ostiguy, associate professor of entomology at Penn State University.

Honey for humans safe Whether or not toxins in the bee’s honey are adversely affecting them is one thing. Another important point is the honey people eat is safe.

Honey is safe for humans said Pettis.

“All the testing that we’ve done, and the National Honey Board and others, seems to bear that out.”

And the agricultural reality is, all our foods—even honey are exposed to chemicals.

“The fact is, every bite that we eat in modern food production has some detectable level of chemical in it,” Delaplane said. “But that is no cause for: Mayday! Mayday!”

He said a grain of perspective is in order. We’re talking parts per billion.

“You can take one grain of arsenic and drop it in an Olympic-size pool…and drink that water and not die.” It gets to “a point of dilution that it no longer has any biological meaning” be it in water or honey.

Industry producers and watchdogs keep a keen eye on honey.

Honey producers “are not going to sell something that they are worried about,” said Kim Flottum, editor of Bee Culture magazine. “They don’t want any surprises in Honey Nut Cheerios.”

•••

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Mrs. Mary Sorenson, M.D., was Polk County physician When Dr. Mary Sorenson, the first woman to practice medicine in this area, opened her office in Taylors Falls, Minn., in 1877, the average life expectancy in the United Sates hovered at about 39 years. Whole families were sometimes wiped out in an epidemic; and brutal accidents – especially in the logging camps and on the Rosemarie river – were commonplace.

Vezina The hardships of settling on this frontier are recorded on headstones, in graveyards and on solitary graves scattered about the countryside. The 1870 U.S. Census for St. Croix Falls records pathetically young victims: Nettie Lacy, 11 months, who died of “a Sponsored by the St. Croix spasm;” Caroline Thaxter, 13, of Falls Historical consumption; Irving Peasley, 9 Society months, of dysentery; Loren Pierce, 1 month and Lawrence Pierce, four months, both of “a rash.”

Physicians were scarce , and a woman physician was truly a rarity. Such were the times when Sorenson began her medical practice at Taylors Falls. It is not clear when she arrived in the area, but estate records of Gohran Wahlgren, a Taylors Falls shoemaker, who died in mid-September, 1877, indicate that Sorenson was due $14.50 for having visited him 14 times and provided him with 14 prescriptions. His death certificate states that he was 46 years old and died of circhosis of the liver.

On Nov. 30, 1877, the Taylors Falls Journal, announced that “Dr. Mrs. Sorenson will, in a few days, open a hospital in the Cascade House. Homeopathic and Electrical treatment will be given in the Eye and Ear Department, free treatment every Thursday, until the first of January. Office in the Hospital.” (The Cascade House on Bench Street, in the approximate location of the present-day (blue) Shirley Nordeen House, was torn down in 1887.) The newspaper also reported that Dr. Sorenson had purchased the Cascade House and would occupy it as a residence and that her husband had arrived from Chicago “and will remain here during the winter.” On Dec. 15, the Polk County Press said that Sorenson would also be in Osceola every Wednesday to attend to the medical needs there.

The story of Sorenson begins in Tyregaard Sogn, Denmark, where she was born on Sept. 17, 1839, the daughter of Hans Bering Mortenson and his wife Eliz-

Braatz

A St. Croix

Tale

abeth. Her father was said to be a direct descendant of the Arctic explorer, Vitus Bering, after whom the strait and sea off the coast of Alaska are named. Nothing is known of Mary’s early life or education in Denmark.

She came to the United States in 1861 when she was about 22 years old. A family account is that Mary came to America in 1861 to marry her fiancé, Jens P. Sorenson, who had gone ahead, from Denmark to Chicago, Ill., and sent for her when he could afford an apartment. Jens P. Sorenson was a carpenter and cabinetmaker. The couple had four children: one daughter, Sarina, born in 1865, died in 1866; two sons, Martin C. (1867-1889) and Seward P. (1869-1895); and daughter Elnora (Nora) who was born in 1871.

The children must have been quite young when Sorenson determined to fulfill her ambition to become a physician. Her husband, a progressive man for his day, encouraged his wife in her studies and took care of the children and household when she enrolled in the Hahnemann Medical College in Chicago, Ill. The Hahnemann “homeopathic” college, had been founded in 1853 with the support of a promised grant of $1,000 a year from a Mrs. Wright because of her interest in homeopathy. Its charter was drafted in the law office of Abraham Lincoln and its mission as a homeopathic hospital was to stress the holistic, preventive and “natural” aspects of medicine. Hahnemann became one of the leading medical schools in the nation, but when homeopathy went out of vogue early in the century, the college and its hospital were merged with the Chicago Memorial, and then the Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Hahnemann opened its doors to women in 1869, and it must have been only a few years later that Mary Sorenson began her studies there. Records of the college say that she was granted her degree in medicine in 1877. An undated, apparently Chicago, newspaper clipping in the family collection states that “four ladies in the class received their degrees as professor of medicine and surgery,” and “accepted their bits of parchment with pride.” She must have come to Taylors Falls almost immediately after receiving her degree. Family tradition states that she also practiced in Chicago, and for a time at Racine and Tacoma, Wash. Just when she was able to do so is not clear.

At any rate, she came to Taylors Falls in 1877, perhaps drawn to the area because her parents had homesteaded in 1869 about a half mile north of present-day Milltown in Polk County. Sorenson did not practice long in Taylors Falls, but the Taylors Falls Journal followed her career. On Jan. 3, 1879, it announced that “Mrs. M. Sorenson, M.D., having been appointed physician for Polk County, has removed her office to the Cushing House, St. Croix Falls, and taken up residence at that place, where she will be found in the future.”

Jens P. Sorenson and Dr. Mary with two of their children. The undated photo was taken at Hartley’s Studio in Chicago, Ill. The original in the Polk County Historical Society Collections, Balsam Lake, is used by permission.

And, two weeks later the paper noted: “Mrs. Sorenson, M.D., is now absent in Chicago purchasing medicines and instruments for her increasing practice. She will return home in about 10 days.”

Sorenson’s practice extended over a large part of Polk County and apparently beyond, as evidenced by news in the Taylors Falls Journal March 10, 1881: “Mrs. Mary Sorenson, M.D., was honored by a surprise party, composed of the notables of Red Wing, Minn., a few evenings since. She is having a large practice there, and is well pleased with the place.” At the same time the Red Wing Republican Eagle ran this items: “Mrs. Dr. Sorenson has arrived in our city and has her office in the brick building of James Lawther, corner of Main and Broad Streets. Office hours from 1-3 p.m.

Free dispensary from 3 to 5 p.m every Thursday.”

End of part I Part II next week

Festival/from page 1 Jorgensen on the Business of Songwriting.

About the Artists The Kurt Jorgensen Band Kurt Jorgensen, winner of multiple Minnesota Music Awards, headlines Saturday night of the festival 8 – 11 p.m. He and his band feature his original songs which inspire dancing. Jorgensen’s MMA accolades include album of the year, song of the year, and male vocalist of the year a couple of times each. The list of accomplishments goes on with 10 albums, over 100 recorded songs and publishing credits with ASCAP. But the awards are peripheral to Jorgensen, who prefers to see people moved by his music. “I’ve been able to turn a passion into a career,” says Jorgensen and after two decades as a professional performer, he counts that as his greatest success.

Jorgensen began performing in his early teens, starting out as a singer, his virtuosity on guitar followed. Eventually, he found it easier to write his own songs rather than try to do other people’s songs perfectly.

His songs are distinguished by their relevance to people, experience and story. “I need to own the experience for it to be a song,” he says.

More at www.kurtjorgensen.com.

The Ben Mills Mystery Project The Ben Mills Mystery Project mesmerized the audience with its own style of jazz fusion at last year’s Lamar Music Festival.

Mills is back at the festival this year with original music that emphasizes the lyrical elements of jazz with the muscle of funk and rock. Mills, classically trained on saxophone, composes for the quartet along

with guitarist Kyle Tennis. Other band members include Jason McLean on bass and Anthony Bloch on drums. The music stands on its own, but it is also notable that it comes with both freshness and maturity from these 20-something musicians from River Falls and Hudson and Red Wing, Minn.

The band is an off-shoot of an earlier jazz quartet. Both Mills and Tennis wanted to hear their own music played and thus, The Ben Mills Mystery Project was born. Mills says he draws from as many people and ideas as he can by paying attention to everyday experiences. “When I sit down to write, I have a warehouse of feelings and experiences,” says Mills.

The band played at the Minnesota Fringe Festival last year. The performance was completely improvised, catalyzed by five silent films the group had never seen before. Mills counts that performance, the daring and playfulness, as one of the best moments of the last year. And what’s ahead for this stunning quartet? Says Mills: “My first priority is exploration and deeper understanding of the music.”

Those who hear them recognize a sound that could also spell fame and fortune. See more at www.benmills.org

Cynthia Rintala

For Cynthia Rintala, a song is like a prayer to express what’s deep inside and needs to come out. Sometimes that’s playfulness; other times a plea to live life well; and sometimes a story to turn your heart towards the suffering of others. And thus, her CD “Unmatched Socks” says a lot in 13 songs featuring her startlingly powerful vocals. Her musical style answers the call of the song and her tunes are flavored with

the blues, country, Cajun and Irish. Rintala says her greatest recent achievement is the completion of the CD, yet there’s a deeper and ongoing tone: “It’s most gratifying when people are moved by the music,” says Rintala, “I write and when it happens to touch other people’s lives, that’s very satisfying.”

Dave Frank Dave Frank’s life as a songwriter began at age 4 and that’s documented. His teacher wrote his first song down – a country music tune in the key of G about fish and a stream. After developing his musical life for a couple of decades in southeastern Wisconsin, he landed in the St. Croix Valley, opened RedBird Music Store, began teaching and performing and cultivating the music scene in the valley. Frank and bass player Dylan Frautschi bill themselves as the Juggernauts, a duo that performs Frank’s original songs. For the most part, it’s acoustic folk with a decidedly old tyme sound, but you never know what else they might perform. That is due in part to Frank’s dedication to continue exploring and expressing as a musician. “The style is always changing so that I can keep growing with writing and playing,” says Frank As a seasoned songwriter with a couple of CDs of his own and a long list of original songs, Frank finds that the song is the place where he can say a lot of things he couldn’t otherwise. And that form of expression demands more than his technical skills on guitar, banjo, mandolin, and violin and your basic creativity: “You have to be honest; you can’t be afraid. If you’re self-censoring, not willing to show emotion, you’re not going to be able to write a good song.”

See more at www.redbirdmusicstore.com.

Carl Unbehaun Singer-songwriter Carl Unbehaun, a veteran of the Lamar Music Festival, will be back for the fifth year with his poignant ballads and zany novelty tunes playing with Bruce Bjork. “I look for the curious and odd little things other people miss. In a way, a songwriter is like a photographer.

I look for a new perspective,” says Unbehaum. “I like to write the songs that no one else would write.”

Unbehaun grew up in a household where momma was always singing. She taught him the tunes of Tin Pan Alley and he began writing his own songs around 12.

They count over 400, including the redneck love song published by Dennis Morgan “I Ain’t Never Gonna Not Love You.” In his early years, Unbehaun played in a number of local bands including the Tremadons, Spunk, and the Breezy Bay Boys. About five years ago, after his kids were raised and schooled, he decided to get back on the stage and now plays regularly for outdoor festivals and at coffee houses, in addition to an occasional reunion with his old bands. See more at www.strangesongs.com Sunday Gospel Sunday morning the festival venue settles into a different vibe with the Sunday Gospel Service at 9:30 a.m. hosted by Fristad Lutheran Church and Lamar. It’s Lutheran Light with the music of Fristad’s own stars and the mutlitalented Tracye Fry playing clawhammer banjo, Hungarian zither, and a most inspired autoharp. The service is under the big tent with the birds singing in the background and cup of coffee and some bars afterwards.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Wannigan Days •

50th

• Anniversary

These cloggers performed a dance to “Piper’s Dream.”

Photos by Tammi Milberg

Talent show LEFT: This girl from Grantsburg sang “Our Song” by Taylor Swift.

These two girls performed a dance to a hip-hop version of the “Hokey Pokey” at the Wannigan Days talent show July 17.

RIGHT: This girl from St. Croix Falls sang “God Bless the USA” from Lee Greenwood.

These two girls performed a dance from “High School Musical 2.”

National Park Service open house Photos by Gary King

A painting demonstration by Mary Pettis (right), a nationally known local artist, offered tips on painting techniques while she reflected on how the St. Croix River has influenced her creative spirit. Demonstrations on flint knapping (below) were also part of the NPS open house.

An open house Saturday at the National Park Service’s Scenic Riverway Visitor Center on North Hamilton Street in St. Croix Falls, was all about interaction with and learning about the river ecosystem and just plain fun. Children tried their hand at fish print T-shirts and dressing up like a park ranger (below). The ranger e-mailed photos of kids in the ranger uniform to the family.

The natural landscaping of the NPS visitor center.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS,

Wannigan Days •

50th

• Anniversary

The Main Street of St. Croix Falls was lined with thousands of people Saturday evening to watch the 50th-annual Wannigan Days parade, which begins in St. Croix Falls and travels across the St. Croix River and through Taylors Falls. The two communities share the celebration, which includes a friendly competition of a tug-of-war across the river (see other coverage). - Photos by Gary King

1950s-era vehicles included an old police car and a surf wagon pulling a vintage boat.

Below, Hudson sent some dancing queens to this year’s parade.

The Chisago Lakes marching band fell out of formation to make the trek across the Interstate Bridge and onto the Main Street of Taylors Falls and the remainder of the parade route. At right, a young man had some pre-parade candy while getting ready for the parade with a dad’s-eye view.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Second-annual

Tug Across the River

The second-annual Tug Across the River, sponsored by the Lions Clubs from St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls and held at the Lions Parks on each side of the river, was held Saturday as part of Wannigan Days. The six tug events were split with each side winning three, but the traveling trophy, based on the Dignitaries Pull, went to Taylors Falls this year, and will be relocated from St. Croix Falls City Hall to Taylors Falls City Hall. The firefighter team from St. Croix Falls (above) was the first to fall. Below left (clockwise) St. Croix Falls Mayor Brad Foss and Beth Anderson of SCF FIre and Rescue give it their all; the view of St. Croix Falls contestants and audience from the Minnesota side; Adam Offerdahl gets pulled into the weeds; some of the muscle men of the Tavern League team; and (centere) St. Croix Falls First Princess Angie Sommer and Miss St. Croix Falls Ahsley Kolve jump in to help pull. They were helped out by Second Princess Brandi Swenson and Queen candidate Jessica Rohm (not shown). Funds raised by the event will be going to local community service projects and Campaign SightFirst II, a campaign to significantly reduce preventable and reversible blindness worldwide. - Photos by Sandy King

Some watched the tug-of-war action from their boats (photo at left) and at the Taylors Falls Lions Park they had live music (right). Photos below show that it takes a lot of rope for the event.

Members of the Taylors Falls Lions Club unspooled the rope and dragged it across the river just prior to the contest. - Photos by Gary King

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Wannigan Days •

50th

• Anniversary

There was jubilation and exhaustion (photos below) on the Minnesota side of the St. Croix River, Saturday, as the Taylors Falls Fire Department won a hard-fought victory in the second-annual tug-ofwar across the river, thus allowing firefighters the bragging rights they have won two years in a row. Also competing were local dignitaries, the Tavern League and youth teams.

At right, a cannon on a pontoon boat in the middle of the river, signaled the start of each contest. Photos by Gary King

The view from the Taylors Falls side of the river shows the length of rope needed for the Tug Across the River event.

A kids tug-of-war was held on each side of the river. One the right, a young man on the losing side of the Taylors Falls contest ends up getting wet.

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Wannigan Days •

50th

• Anniversary

Thompson Parkway, a block up from Main Street in St. Croix Falls, was the scene of much of the Wannigan Days action this past weekend. A car show, food booths and live music brought several hundred people to the parkway Saturday and Sunday. Below are a few of the vintage autos on display, including a unique camper fitted on a station wagon. - Photos by Gary King The thrill of fireworks was matched only by an Elvis impersonator, who brought some of his own excitement to the Thompson Parkway during a sock hop, Saturday evening. His appearance was sponsored by Britt Sager and COUNTRY Financial. Below, Elvis interacts with a woman audience member while singing one of the ballads he made famous in the 1950s. - Special photos by Yetta Olmstead

Members of The R Factor are shown in the photo at right. The group performed at an outdoor concert Friday evening at Thompson Parkway, were sponsored by St. Croix Regional Medical Center. At left, 2007 St. Croix Falls Princess Kate Wright and an unidentified young woman, dance to the band’s music. - Special photos by Yetta Olmstead

The Tribal Spirits of the Sun belly dancers performed at the Parkway, Saturday afternoon. - Photos by Gary King

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

JULY

THURS. - SUN./24 - 27 St. Croix Falls

• Polk County Fair at the fairgrounds.

THURSDAY/24 Amery

• Church Basement Ladies trip, call for reservations - senior center, 715-2686605.

Coming events

Siren

• 4th-annual Wine Tasting Event, A Taste of Summer, fundraiser for Burnett Youth Hockey at the Lodge at Crooked Lake, 6-9 p.m., 715-6532373.

SATURDAY/2 Amery

• “The Times That Try Men’s Souls” at The Northern Lakes Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m.

Atlas

Frederic

• United Methodist Church annual thrift & bake sale, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

• Rally for the Cure Golf Tournament, 2 p.m., 715-327-8250.

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

Frederic

• Potluck & birthday of the month at the senior center, noon.

Grantsburg

The Indianhead Chorus is holding its 50t- anniversary barbershop show on Oct. 11, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The headliner is the quartet named FRED. They provide some of the best Grantsburg • Grantsburg Area Historical Society barbershop entertainment around. The second quartet is VOCE, a top-notch quartet from old-fashioned ice-cream social, 6-8 Illinois. The anniversary show will be held at the Unity High School, Balsam Lake. Tickets p.m. are available in advance by calling Ken M. at 715-483-9202 or e-mail kbmett@hotmail.com, or at the door. – Photos submitted

FRI. & SAT./ 25 & 26

ria in Dresser, 11:30 a.m.

Osceola

• “Gillygaloo” at the ArtBarn, 7 p.m., 715-2942787, www.stcroixartbarn.com.

FRI. - SUN./25 - 27

Cushing

• Glory Train (Baxter Band) at Skonewood Christian Retreat Center, 7 p.m. Ann Bell at the piano prior to 7 p.m.

Danbury

• 6th-annual pottery tour. Tour five potters studios from Danbury, Foxboro and Lake Nebagamon, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call Cabin Fever Pottery, 715-656-3305 or go to www.nwwisconsinpotterytour.com for info.

Webster

• Great Folle Avoine Fur Trade Rendezvous, demonstrations, competitions & entertainment.

Sunday pancake breakfast 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

715-866-8890.

SAT. & SUN./26 & 27

Lindstrom, Minn.

• Franconia Sesquicentennial Garden Tour, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets available at Panola Valley Gardens, day of tour. Call 651-257-2958 for more info.

Trade Lake

• Trade Lake Swedish Mission Church Service, 11 a.m.

MONDAY/28 Frederic

• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

TUESDAY/29

Frederic

• Free 41st-annual Gem and Mineral Show & Sale at Frederic High School, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 715-357-3223.

SATURDAY/26 Cumberland

• Shooting Stars Annual Benefit 5K run & 2mile walk at the middle school, 7:30 a.m., 715822-3577.

Frederic

• Food, fellowship & games at the senior center, noon.

• The Bassmeister, ventriloquism, puppets, balloon animals, exhibit, Frederic Library event at Coon Lake Park, 1 p.m., 715-327-4979.

Luck

• 6th Bryce Hacker Memorial Musky Tournament on Bone Lake, 715-825-3314.

Markville, Minn.

• Smorgasbord at Zion Lutheran Church, 5-7 p.m., 715-244-3565.

Siren

• Burnett County Airport Fly-In or Drive-In Breakfast & Lunch, breakfast 7-11 a.m., lunch 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Lions & Lioness yard sale drop-off day, 9 a.m.-noon, 715-349-2400.

SUNDAY/27 Centuria

• Centuria all-class reunion at Village Pizze-

Osceola

• “Gillygaloo” at the ArtBarn, 7 p.m., 715-2942787, www.stcroixartbarn.com.

THURSDAY/31 Amery

• Visually Impaired Persons Support Group at the senior center, 1:30 p.m.

Frederic

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

Voyager Village

Luck

• “The Best Laid Plans” at Voyager Village Stables, 7 p.m., 715-259-7876

Webster

AUGUST

• Music in the Park at Centennial Pavilion, The Bill Bittner Memorial Dixieland Band, 6:30 p.m.

• Food & Friends Community dinner at St. John’s Catholic Church, 5-6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY/30 Balsam Lake

• A Polk/Burnett counties meeting to review and approve list of projects for elderly, disabled and employment-related transportation programs at the government center, 1:30-4:30 p.m., 715-485-8590.

Frederic

• 5th-annual Frederic Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament at the golf course.

Registration noon, shotgun start 1 p.m., 715327-8250, 715-327-5513.

• Pokeno at the senior center, 1 p.m.

Osceola

• 2nd-annual Osceola Duathlon training clinic at OMC, 7-8:30 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• Friends of the Library meet at noon.

Siren

• Dedication of the rocks Vernon Peterson has given to the three Burnett County schools, noon, at the Burnett County Government Center.

We’re online @ www.the-leader.net

THUR.-SAT./ JULY 31 - AUG. 2

FRI. - SUN./1 - 3 Siren

• Summerfest Days, Crazy Days sales, Arts & Crafts in the Park, Softball Tournament.

SAT. & SUN./2 & 3 Amery

• Balsam Luthern Church building dedication and 136-anniversary celebration, 715268-9291.

Grantsburg

• Nature Photography Weekend at Crex Meadows, judging Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 715463-2739 or www.crexmeadows.org.

Siren

• Range Day at Coyland Creek, Fri. 4 p.m.-dark; Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-222-5000 or 715-6534273.

Voyager Village

• “The Best Laid Plans” at Voyager Village stables, Sat. 7 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., 715-259-7876.

FRIDAY/1 St. Croix Falls

• Bingo at the senior center, 1 p.m.

• WELCA Women’s summer retreat at Luther Point Bible Camp, special speaker Sharry Waldriff, 8:30 a.m., 715-825-2239.

• Celebration for those who participated in the rescue of Keith Kennedy at the Crex Convention Center, 4-11 p.m., 715-463-5165 ext. 160.

Milltown

• “A La Carte” puppet show by Circus Minimus at the library, 1 p.m.

Osceola

• Franconia Heritage Day Community Picnic at the Osceola Landing, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• Class of ‘88 20-year reunion, potluck at Interstate State Park for lunch, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Main event & DJ Saturday night, 7 p.m.-midnight.

Mike Berg, 715-607-0021.

• Benefit for Chris McIntyre to help with medical bills, at Kassel Tap Bar on Hwy. 8., noon to 4 p.m. Silent auction, music, more, 651-5879996.

Siren

• Annual Coin Show sponsored by Fishbowl Wooden Nickel Coin Club, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the senior citizens center. Contact John Biver, 715468-2012 for details.

• Siren Lions Chicken & Rib Fest at the Crooked Lake Park, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., 715-3492400.

• Fundraiser dance for WWII veterans trip to D.C. at the Lakeview Event Center, 7-10:30 p.m., 715-349-5168.

Superior

• Challenge Rope Course at UW-Superior free Community Day, 1-5 p.m., 715-395-4651.

Webster

• The Forts BBQ Fest at Folle Avoine, 10 a.m.5 p.m. 715-866-8890.

SUNDAY/3 Amery

• Amery’s Antique roadshow at the senior center, 1-3:30 p.m. Bring your valuables to be appraised.

Frederic

• HomeField Advantage block party at Coon Lake Park, beginning at 4 p.m. Ernie Couch and Revival performs at 6:30 p.m.

Siren

• Syren Area Garden Club’s 3rd-annual garden tour noon-4 p.m., self-guided, 715-3498386.

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Nashville gospel quartet performing at HomeField Advantage block party FREDERIC - Male gospel quartet, Ernie Couch and Revival, will be traveling from Nashville, Tenn., to perform at the HomeField Advantage block party Sunday, Aug. 3, at Coon Lake Park in Frederic.

Ernie Couch and Revival exemplifies what good gospel music is all about. This live band performs their music in a unique blend of styles to ensure everyone present enjoys the concert. EC&R is well known across the United States and Canada for its high-energy brand of live music. Many describe the group as refreshingly different, and a lot of fun.

Jason Couch, says, “We want folks to leave our concerts feeling better than when they arrived. We hope that they have not only been entertained, but that they go home in a better frame of mind and more focused on the One that makes life worth living.”

EC&R has traveled the road for more than a decade and present a professional evening of music. The group strives to bring quality to their work worthy of the One they sing about. EC&R has recorded numerous proj-

Polk County 4-H representatives compete in Dunn County POLK COUNTY – Polk County 4-H representatives Haley Yunker and Emily Petzel, both of Northern Lights 4-H, competed in the Dunn County regional animal science event held in Menomonie on July 1.

Wisconsin Animal Science Days are sponsored by Wisconsin 4-H Foundation, UW-Extension and UW Animal and Dairy Science Departments.

The objectives of animal science day are: • To increase the availability of educational opportunities in the 4-H animal science projects.

• To increase decision making skills through judging and grading experiences.

• To increase the knowledge of animals through breeding and market evaluation and management information.

Haley Yunker received 10th place in junior livestock judging.

Emily Petzel earned ninth place in senior livestock judging and took fifth place in senior meat judging. submitted Polk County 4-H representatives Haley Yunker and Emily Petzel, both of Northern Lights 4-H, competed in the Dunn County regional animal science event held in Menomonie on July 1. – Photo submitted

ects on their own as well as recording with such greats as Jake Hess, George Jones, James Blackwood, Boots Randolph, George Beverly Shea, Petra, and others just to name a few. You can visit the group’s Web site at www.erniecouchandrevival.com to learn even more about this fantastic group.

The HomeField Advantage block party begins at 4 p.m., with bounce houses for the children, dinner and lots of fun. EC&R will perform beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Everything is free, and everyone is invited. - submitted

Ernie Couch and Revival, will be traveling from Nashville, Tenn., to perform at the HomeField Advantage block party Sunday, Aug. 3 at Coon Lake Park in Frederic. - Photo submitted

Harsdorf visits McNally Industries on July 14

Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, R-River Falls visiting with Don Erickson Sr., vice president of McNally Industries, during a July 14 tour of the Grantsburg industry. Harsdorf has visited over 40 businesses throughout Northwest Wisconsin as part of a tour to learn and listen to the challenges and success of job providers. – Photo submitted

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Siren Lionesses install new officers and members

The Siren Lionesses celebrated their annual officers installatioin with a catered dinner at The Lodge at Crooked Lake. Installed in the candlelit ceremony were: Club president, Lioness Sandra Ferguson; first vice president, Lioness Nancy Tamminga; second vice president, Lioness Marilyn Lemieux; secretary, Lioness Charlene Hyslop; and treasurer, Lioness Anke Olesen. Also installed for the year 2008-2009 were directors Lioness Judy Masel, Lioness Joan Chapman and Lioness Faye Russ; skirt twister, Lioness Janette Olson; Lioness tamer, Lioness Miriam Smith; membership and retention chairman, Barbara Fosmo and historian and past president, Lioness Mary Jo Bierman. Pictured with the Lionesses is Siren Lions president, John Carlson, who is serving as club liaison this coming year. – Photos submitted

Siren Lioness Club welcomes new member, Vera Jensen, (c) who was recently installed into the Siren Lioness Club by 2008 president Lioness Mary Jo Bierman (L). Lioness Jensen was sponsored by her proud daughter, Lioness Debra Pavlicek. Anyone interested in serving the community by becoming a Siren Lioness should contact any member or membership chairman Barb Fosmo at 349-2357. Regular meetings are held at 6:30 p.m., the third Tuesday of each month at the Siren Senior Center, and visitors are always welcome.

Check out the Leader’s new e-edition @ www.the-leader.net

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Peterson’s book of memories is now available to the public

by Nancy Jappe TOWN OF DANIELS – At the ripe old age of 90, former Daniels Town Chairman Vernon Peterson hasn’t quit making the news. This time it is for a spotlight on his life, documented in a delightful memory book titled “A Marriage on the Rocks – For almost Seventy Years.”

The book sells for $12, and will be available for purchase during the annual Gem and Mineral Show in Frederic this coming weekend, July 26-27.

In the book’s preface, Peterson explains how the title came about, in case a knowing reader hasn’t already guessed.

The title, “Marriage on the Rocks” was provided by Pastor Steve Ward at the

Siren Methodist Church several years ago.

“He introduced us to the congregation as the couple with their marriage on the rocks,” Peterson said. “I’ve collected rocks all of my life, and my bride decided, ‘if you can’t lick ‘em, might as well join them.’ That philosophy has led us to explore many mountains and deserts together.”

To get the book ready, Peterson was aided by Russ Hanson, Cushing, a writer and frequent contributor to the InterCounty Leader. The manuscript was done by Peterson in longhand, and carefully typed by Lynn Peterson and Bonnie Tjader. The printing was done by the

Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association.

The book starts with information on Peterson’s grandparents, who immigrated to the United States. A photo of the Peterson ancestral home is included.

Peterson mentioned that his grandparents recognized the responsibility and privilege that came with United States citizenship. His grandfather received a letter notifying him that an inheritance was due him back home. “No, I am an American now,” was the man’s reply.

The historical photos include the first Siren band in 1933, Peterson and George Meeker leaving for their hobo trips in 1936, farming with horses in 1931, Depression days and Siren’s first streetlights. They show rock-hunting trips, and describe his days on a Watkins route and his latest gift – display cases of rocks that will be given to the three Burnett County schools.

The photos and the information are priceless, as is the humor of this remarkable man that comes through the written

word. When asked why he wrote the book, Peterson answered: “For the fun of it. I have always wanted to write a little bit, and I’ve written a little over the years.”

Peterson took early retirement at the age of 87 so he could enjoy a life of ease.

He still misses the big green tractors, but he hasn’t given up his love for rocks, the history of the area, his family and friends.

“This morning I sit in my favorite space, by the east living room window, where I have long said I’d want to finish my days … Gwen and I can contemplate our work here, and the pleasure of our active and productive lives here. The satisfaction of raising our six loving children and now, with almost 69 years of wedded bliss, the children are mowing that beautiful lawn and tending Gwen’s flowers that she spent many years nurturing,” Peterson said in his concluding page on retirement, a resting point in a busy and well-lived life.

Frederic Watercross presents check to Grantsburg students

“A Marriage on the Rocks – For almost Seventy Years” is the title chosen by rock hound extraordinaire Vernon Peterson for his book of memories. The book will be available this coming weekend, Saturday and Sunday, July 26 and 27, at the annual rock show in Frederic. The photo on the cover of the book was taken the night Peterson turned over his longtime chairmanship of the town of Daniels to Walter Sellent. Obviously Peterson’s wife, Gwen, was planning to wield the gavel in her family. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

Lauri Nelson of Frederic Watercross X Racing, Inc. presents a check for $500 to part of a group of 20 Grantsburg High School students from Michelle Jensen’s Foods Classes for their help doing ticket sales and concessions at the Frederic Watercross Races at the end of June. The monies will go toward their fundraising efforts for their 10-day European tour to London, Paris and Rome scheduled for the spring of 2009. – Photo submitted

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Area locals to perform for U.S. troops

Members of the alt-rock, power-pop band Catchpenny are (L to R): Alec Roeser, Shell Lake; Christian Schauf and Zach Schauf, Barron, and Eric Raum, Spooner. — Photo submitted MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Catchpenny, a Minneapolis-based alt-rock, power-pop band, will be in the Middle East Aug. 3-22 to share their music with U.S. troops stationed in Kuwait and Iraq.

Catchpenny was formed four years ago by brothers Christian and Zach Shauf, Barron, on vocals and guitar, and Eric Raum, Spooner, on lead guitar. Alec Roeser, Shell Lake, is also a band member.

“This is huge for us, it’s a great and patriotic opportunity for us to do what we can to help while having the trip of a lifetime. We fell so fortunate to be able to play for such an amazing audience,”

said Christian. “On a personal level, my brother served in Iraq for 18 months, so this is a real honor for us.”

In 2005, Catchpenny released their first album, “Chance for a Lifetime,” with their second, “From Where You Are” in 2006.

“Catchpenny’s fresh sound is upbeat and energetic,” said Army Captain Erik Ogilvie, Armed Forces Entertainment circuit manager for Southwest Asia.

“And they’re great live performers, so they’re sure to be a big hit.”

For more information on Catchpenny, visit www.catchpennyband.com. — with information provided by Armed Forces Entertainment

You can subscribe to our print or e-edition online @

www.the-leader.net

Grantsburg Library news Bug invasion The Grantsburg Public Library has been invaded by large, brightly colored papier-mâché dragonflies created by the fifth-grade art class. They are flying through the air or resting on top of bookshelves. On the walls, colorful artwork of dragonflies.

An informative display of dragonflies and the St. Croix River is set up in the children’s area courtesy of the National Park Service. The display includes free pamphlets.

Summer reading The summer reading program will

continue throughout the summer. Pizza certificates will be given to each child who brings in their weekly reading slip.

Photos taken during one of the sessions are now ready to be picked up.

New books The blue notebook on the checkout counter contains the lists of new books and books ordered for the upcoming month. Reserves can be made with the staff or from home using your Merlin card. Not finding the book you want?

We can get it for you – just ask.

Burnett Community Library Book club On Tuesday, Aug. 26, the book being discussed will be “Three Cups of Tea,” written by Greg Mortenson, and the place of the discussion will be the Burnett Community Library at 10 a.m. On Sept. 23, the book being discussed will be “Season of Life,” by Jeffery Max. Summer story time We have an opportunity to offer a book talk and summer reading program from 1 to 2 p.m. this summer for all age groups and reading levels. The program started on July 16, and will be held each Wednesday until Aug. 27, and is covering the theme Civil Rights, with different reading-level books available. The idea is for the children to get acquainted with books on Abraham Lincoln and the civil rights era. Children second-grade and lower will have regular story time books read to them that are not of that

theme.

Some new donated books from the Alzheimer’s Association are currently in our holdings and ready for check-out.

They are: 1. “Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s” 2. “Validation Techniques for Dementia Care” 3. “Alzheimer’s from the Inside Out” 4. “Living, Dying, Care; Life and Death in a Nursing Home” 5. “Dementia Caregivers Share their Stories: Support Group in a Book” 6. “Share the Care: How to Organize a Group to Care for Someone...”

7. “Caregiving: The Spiritual Journey of Love, Loss and Renewal” 8. “Quick Tips for Caregivers” 9. “Choices at the End of Life.” - submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

CHURCH NEWS

God wants us well

Wherever we turn, we see or hear of someone suffering from disease or injury. Cancer, heart disease, diabetes are rampant everywhere. So are heartache, depression and hopelessness.

Is this the way it's supposed to be? Are we to accept these conditions in our lives? Because we live in a fallen world, we can expect these things to happen. But it's not God's will. Yet, how often have we heard someone pray, perhaps even ourselves, "If it be Thy Perspectives will?"

Although God sometimes permits sickness to come upon us, it is His will that we live in good health—wholeness in body, mind, emotions, and spirit. Jesus was—and still is—the Healer.

Satan is the oppressor. "(Jesus) went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil." (Acts 10:38) When we pray, "Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven," we are asking God for our wholeness—for there is no sickness in heaven.

Some Christians believe they're meant to suffer, perhaps to learn a spiritual lesson. Yes, the Bible says, "For whom the Lord loves He chastens." (Hebrews 12:6) But the Greek definition of chasten is to train, educate, or teach. It has nothing to do with sickness.

Others argue that the apostle Paul's "thorn in the flesh" was a sickness that God refused to heal. Actually, his "thorn" came from "a messenger of Satan to buffet him"—to keep him from becoming prideful about all the revelations and visions he'd had. (See 2 Corinthians 12:7.)

There are other reasons why people doubt God's divine, supernatural healing. The subject of divine healing can be a mystery for many. It covers a multitude of facets—faith in God, prayer, laying on of hands, authority and power to heal, attitude of the recipient and more. Methods vary, results vary.

Some people receive instant healing; others receive none. Still others are healed over time. It's hard to understand why some receive healing and some do not. However, people who maintain a positive attitude—believing in, thanking and praising God for healing even before it happens—recover faster and with fewer ill effects.

Jesus told us to seek FIRST his Kingdom and his righteousness. Doctor Jesus should be the first doctor we visit. He may prompt us to seek a medical doctor. And once healed, we should in faith continue offering God our thanks and praise and maintain good health practices so we keep our healing.

Lord, we thank you for being Jehovah-Rapha, our Healer.

Strengthen our faith in your promises. In Jesus' name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com or at her Blog, http://bairbonesblog.blogspot.com.)

Sally Bair Eternal

Frederic Evangelical Free Church VBS begins Sunday FREDERIC – Frederic Evangelical Free Church invites all the children in Frederic and the surrounding area to join us at SonWorld Adventure Park VBS on Sunday, July 27 – Friday, Aug. 1, 6 – 8 p.m., at 505 Old County Rd. W, Frederic.

At SonWorld Adventure Park your kids will experience the fun and excitement of an amusement park!

Children will have a great time singing, watching skits, creating crafts and playing games. But most important, they’ll discover more about who Jesus is and about some important choices everyone has to make. Parents are welcome to stay and join them for coffee, treats and conversation.

The church is looking forward to sharing this exciting event with the children and parents in the neighborhood. Please attend SonWorld Adventure Park. For information, call 715-327-8767. - submitted

The Indestructible Bible The Bible is the oldest book the world has. It antedates the Chinese bible. It has come down to us through the ages. Its enemies have sought to destroy it. Its pages are stained with the blood of martyrs. Empires, kingdoms, and states have crumbled around it. How do you account for the Bible surviving the wreck of time?

The answer is that God is with it and in it.

It was Mears who said, "The Preacher’s lyric poetry of the Hebrews was in its golden age nearly a thousand years before the birth of Horace. Deborah sang a model of a triumphant song full five hundred years before Sappho was born. The book of Esther was a venerable fragment of biography, more strange than fiction, at least twelve hundred years old at the dawn of the romantic literature of Europe. The proverbs of Solomon are by eight hundred years more ancient than the writings of Seneca."

Though it has been exploded, demolished, and made ready for the grave countless times, it goes on its triumphant way, giving light, hope, and salvation to unnumbered millions in many lands and many tongues.

The Bible lives in spite of men. False theories of religion profess to be built upon it. A relentless war is waged upon it by those who hate it, and friends to it have become lukewarm. Yet the Bible is here. It is the deathless book. It is as eternal as God. (Written by A.

Garret Derouin The Pen

G. Freed) God declared the indestructibility of His word through the prophet Isaiah: The voice said, "Cry out!"

And he said, "What shall I cry?" "All flesh is grass, And all its loveliness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, Because the breath of the LORD blows upon it; Surely the people are grass.

The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever." (Isaiah 40:6-8) The Apostle Peter echoed it again more than 1000 years later: "ALL FLESH IS AS GRASS, AND ALL THE GLORY OF MAN AS THE FLOWER OF THE GRASS. THE GRASS WITHERS, AND ITS FLOWER FALLS AWAY, BUT THE WORD OF THE LORD ENDURES FOREVER." Now this is the word which by the gospel was preached to you. (1 Peter 1:24-25) God’s word has been given to us through the Bible.

It is “…given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). We must read our Bibles, know our Bibles, and live by what we read and learn, for that is the only way that we can do God’s will. By doing that we can be like Paul and say that we are “…not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes,” (Romans 1:16) If readers have questions or simply wish to know more about the Church of Christ, we would like to invite them to call 715-866-7157 or stop by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Office hours are Tuesdays through Fridays, 9 a.m. noon.

News from the Pews at Pilgrim Lutheran FREDERIC – The staff from Luther Point Bible Camp, near Grantsburg, conducted worship services this past Sunday at Pilgrim with songs, a skit and reading of the scriptures. Director Craig Corbin gave his special message of faith about his journey in coming to the camp 16 years ago.

The Christian Education Committee is busy finalizing plans for Vacation Bible School. The first night is Sunday, Aug. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m., and beginning at 5 p.m., there will be a family gathering time, supper, registration and music. VBS will continue on Monday, Aug. 4, Tuesday, Aug. 5, and Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 5 to 8 p.m., and supper will be served each night at 5 p.m. On Thursday evening, Aug. 7, the students are to come at 5 p.m., as usual and at 7 p.m. there will be a service that is open to everyone. The theme this year will be “Rainforest Adventures.” Events will include canopy crafts activity site, green tree game activity site, sky high story telling activity site, swing vine science activity site and great music! All children pre-K through sixth-grade are welcome, and new this year will be VBS for adults! Please call the church at 3278012 to register so they will know how many students to plan supper for.

Mark your calendar to join Pilgrim for their second annual Harvest Dinner, which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m., with a freewill donation. The committee is working hard on making plans to serve a

tasty meal of roast pork loin, good, old-fashioned mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh buttered corn, coleslaw, tomatoes and cucumbers, assorted pickles, a dinner roll and homemade pie. The menu last year was such a success that it will be repeated again this year.

Pilgrim invites everyone to attend Sunday morning worship services at 9 a.m.

For more information, call the church office at 3278012 or go to their newly upgraded Web site at www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.com. - submitted

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

CHURCH NEWS Bone Lake Lutheran welcomes new members On Sunday, July 13, Bone Lake Lutheran Church received 16 new members into their church family. Back row: (L to R): Elise, Paul, Gavin, and Kristine King; Sandra Fisher (Ken Fisher is missing from the picture); Christina White; and John and Lois Olson. Front row: Mike and Lil Wilson, Pastor Mary Ann Bowman, Laura, John, and Jan Munson; and Michelle and Micaela Eliason. Bone Lake’s summer worship is Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m.– Photo submitted

Baptisms held at Bone Lake Lutheran

Confirmations at Zion Lutheran

Easton James Jones and Gavin Russell King celebrated the sacrament of Holy Baptism at Bone Lake Lutheran Church on Sunday, July 20. Easton’s family includes his parents Ryan and Melissa Jones and grandparents Bob and Linda Jones.

Gavin’s family includes his parents Paul and Kristine King, sister Elise, and Dan and Jessica King and their children Rose, Sam, Amelia and Levi. Mary Ann Bowman is the pastor. – Photo submitted

Zion Lutheran Church of Bone Lake confirmed Clint Gage (L) and Summer Johnson (R) on May 4. Pastor Larry Juergensen is shown with the confirmands. – Photo submitted

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PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Carrie June McConnell Carrie June McConnell, nee Williamson,60, died peacefully at her home on July 12, 2008, surrounded by her loving husband, daughter and members of her family.

Carrie was born on April 2, 1948, in St. Croix Falls, and grew up on the family farm near the Trollhaugen Ski Resort outside of Dresser. Carrie attended elementary school in Dresser and graduated from St. Croix Falls High School. Carrie went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the UW-Eau Claire and began her career as a medical technologist. Carrie married David McConnell on March 19, 1989. The couple was blessed as a family with the birth of their only child on Jan. 12, 1992, a daughter, Cathryn.

Carrie had many loves, interests and talents. First and foremost she loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Carrie was devoted to her family and demonstrated a genuine concern for all of them. She loved her piano students and taught them so much more than just music. Carrie had a passion for horses and loved teaching others the joy of working with horses.

She was active in the community and in her church, serving as church organist and Sunday school leader at the Siren United Methodist Church. Carrie was a gifted health care professional, wife, mother, horsewoman, musician and teacher who was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Carrie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Basil and Carrie Monroe and Wallace and Carrie Williamson; her father, Wallace Williamson; brother, Joel Williamson, and nephew, Craig Osterbauer.

Carrie is survived by husband, David; daughter, Cathryn; her mother, Betty Williamson; her brother, Lee Williamson (Barbara); and her sisters, Mary Osterbauer (Steven), Eileen Tomlinson (Alan), and Amy Williamson (Mike); along with nieces and nephews, Chris, Scott, Tami, Tricia, Travis, Kate, Michael, Carrie Joy, Alyshia and Ashley .

A time for visitation with the family is scheduled on Friday, Aug. 8, from 5 - 8 p.m., at the Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic. Her memorial service will begin at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Siren United Methodist Church in Siren. She requested that this be a praise service, so please dress casually. Interment will be at Sand Lake Cemetery, Polk County and restricted to family members.

In lieu of flowers the family has set up two memorials for Carrie. A scholarship that will bear her name at the Kairos Equestrian Center in Amery and donations towards replacing the sound system at her church.

The Rowe Funeral Home, Frederic, was entrusted with arrangements.

OBITUARIES Randy A. Kosnopfal

Lillian D. Jacobsen

Randy A. Kosnopfal, 59, of Balsam Lake, formerly of Red Wing, Minn., died Tuesday, July 15, 2008.

He was born in Olmsted County, he had worked as a correctional case manager for the state of Minnesota and deputy sheriff for Polk County. He was educated at Edison High School in Minneapolis and was a graduate of Lakewood Community College. A Vietnam War veteran, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. Randy enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Diane, of Balsam Lake; son, Christopher of St. Croix Falls; daughter, Trisha, of Red Wing, Minn.; two grandsons, Thaddeus and Cedric; stepfather, Damien Dischinger of Silver Bay, Minn.; brothers and sisters, Shari (Gene) Krause of Otsego, Minn., Larry (Betty) Kosnopfal of Chatfield, Minn., Robert (Ry) Kosnopfal of Rochester, Minn., Gary (Mary Jo) Kosnopfal of Milaca, Minn., Susie Kosnopfal of Minneapolis, Minn., Nancy Kosnopfal of Minneapolis, Minn., Dennis Kosnopfal of Champlin, Minn., and Craig (Debbie) Kosnopfal of Ramsey, Minn., and several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

His parents preceded him in death.

Memorial service was held Saturday, July 19, at First United Methodist Church in Red Wing, Minn. Burial with military honors was held Monday, July 21, at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials are preferred in Randy’s name to the VA Medical Center, 1 Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, Minn., 55417.

The Mahn Family Funeral Home, Bodelson-Mahn Chapel, was entrusted with arrangements.

Lillian D. Jacobsen died peacefully July 16, 2008, at Frederic Nursing and Rehab in Frederic. She was 93 years old.

She was born to Axel and Margaret Johansen on Nov. 8, 1914. Lillian was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and was a member there all of her life. She was active in Luther League and played in church for 25 cents a Sunday. She graduated from Luck High School and attended Minnesota School of Business.

She married Christian Jacobsen on May 29, 1936. To this union two daughters were born, Mary Lou and Judy. They enjoyed 55 happy years together until Christian died in January 1991.

Lillian worked at Duncan Yo-yo at Luck and the selective service office in Balsam Lake. She saw many young men in our area get drafted into the military.

She was active in her church, the Luck Senior Center and the Danish Brotherhood Society. Lillian and Christian lived on their farm south of Luck and then moved into the village of Luck. In the later years, they lived at Golden Oaks in Frederic until she moved into the Frederic Nursing Home 12 years ago. She had macular disease in her eyes, which limited her doing her favorite things like knitting and reading.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and sister Irene Mattson.

She is survived by her two daughters, Mary Lou (Milton) Daeffler of Frederic and Judy Thrawl of Inver Grove Heights, Minn.; five grandchildren, Brenda (Jim) Riggott of Rochester, Minn., Brian (Conny) Daeffler and Bryce (Kim) Daeffler of Frederic, Patrick Thrawl of Inver Grove Heights, Minn. and Erik (Keely) Thrawl of Eagan, Minn.; 11 great-grandchildren, Angela Holmberg, Jenna, Hanna, Alex, Brett and Kelly Daeffler, and Brent, Soren, Ava, Kajsa and Mya Thrawl; two greatgreat-grandchildren, Kaylee and Brittney; nephew, nieces and other relatives.

Funeral services were held Saturday, July 19, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in North Luck, with the Rev. Mark Hall officiating. Music was provided by Kelly Steen and Barbara Petersen.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with arrangements.

Carol Delores Darnell Carol Delores Darnell, 77, of Mesa, Ariz., died July 4, 2008. She passed in her sleep at home.

She was born in Minneapolis, Minn., on Dec. 29, 1930. She married Gene Eaton of St. Croix Falls in 1949.

Carol worked in the sewing factory below the old theater in downtown St. Croix Falls. After her divorce, she moved with her two daughters, Sheila and Marcia, to Minneapolis. She worked for a number of years at Berman Buckskin, after which, she started a career in the printed circuit board industry.

She moved to Mesa, Ariz., in the mid-’70s along with her employer. She also became a successful Avon representative. Downsizing left her job searching. She once again turned to her sewing skills, working for a medical supply company. When that company moved to Oregon, she went with them, eventually finding herself back in Minneapolis, back at the circuit boards.

She retired at age 67, and she lived in an apartment in Minneapolis, Minn., until moving back to Arizona with her youngest daughter, Marcia, and her husband, Norman Pettett.

Carol was preceded in death by her daughter, Sheila (Eaton) Shatek. She is survived by her daughter, Marcia (Norman) Pettett of Mesa, Ariz., two sisters, Sandra (Gerald) Nance and Frances Nance, both of Machesney Park, Ill.; two granddaughters; three grandsons; two great-granddaughters and five great-grandsons; aunt, Mildren Logan of Minneapolis; many cousins, nieces, nephews and many friends.

Carol was cremated on July 10, 2008, after a quiet viewing was held July 7, attended by immediate family in Mesa, Ariz.

The Wyman Cremation and Burial Services of Mesa, Ariz., was entrusted with arrangements.

Audrey Victoria Hanson Audrey Victoria Hanson died July 15, 2008, in Luck.

She was 87 years old.

Audrey was born in Woodville, the daughter of Sig and Stella Nelson. She attended elementary school and graduated from Woodville High School in 1938. She attended River Falls University for one year and nurse’s training for one year at Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis. On Sept. 5, 1940, she was united in marriage to Warren Hanson at Zion Lutheran Church in Woodville, where she had been baptized and confirmed. They moved to Frederic, where she lived for the rest of her life.

She was the organist at Zion Lutheran Church of Bone Lake. During those years, she played not only for church services, but also for Christmas programs, accompanied numerous soloists, selected and coordinated music for funerals and celebrations. She was also a gifted violinist and for many years was a member of a string quartet who performed in the upper Midwest. She also accompanied two separate girls trios who entertained the community and competed at the state level. One of her favorite pastimes was dancing. Music was her gift and other people’s enjoyment.

She worked as a cashier at the co-op grocery store in Frederic from 1956-1972. In the summers of 1967 and 1968, she and her friend, Eileen Thompson, operated the Luck Drive Inn. There were many long hours, but many great memories.

Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; son, Kent in 1960; and grandson, Jason Furlong, in 1987.

She is survived by former husband, Warren Hanson; son, Doug (Joyce) Hanson of Frederic; daughters, Sharon Weiser of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Jill (Kevin) Furlong of Stillwater, Minn.; five grandchildren, Tanya Hanson, Kari Vernon, Kessea Weiser Fjelstad, Megan Furlong and Ryan Furlong; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Shirley Anderson; sister-in-law, Marilyn Baardson; two nieces and six nephews.

Visitation was held at Rowe Funeral Home in Luck on Wednesday, July 23. The memorial service was held at 2 p.m. with a lunch being served at the Luck Senior Center following the service. Pastor Lowell Helstedt officiated. Music was provided by Margie Nelson and Terri Stoner.

Private burial will be at Zion Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck was entrusted with arrangements.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

Ronald Robert Grambow Ronald Robert Grambow, resident of Willow Ridge Health Care in Amery, formerly of Luck and Frederic, died on Friday, July 18, 2008, at the age of 73.

He was born Jan. 15, 1935, in Milwaukee, to Reinhold and Lena Grambow.

Ronald married Lois M. Novocin on Jan. 29, 1955, in Waukegan, Ill. To this union were born Robert, Debra, Denise and Michael. He served four years in the U.S. Navy stationed in the Great Lakes and Newport, R.I. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 30 years and at Luck School for 17 years. He also spent several years driving bus at Unity and Luck Schools.

He loved bowling, hunting and camping and was an avid walleye fisherman.

Ronald was preceded by his parents, Reinhold Grambow and Lena (Barney); brother, Dave Grambow; daughter, Denise Grambow.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53-1/2 years, Lois; children, Robert (Donna) of Lino Lakes, Debra Talmadge and friend Jerry Petersen of Luck, Michael (Cathy) of Luck; grandchildren, Andrea, Eric, Jeremy, Samantha; step-grandchild, Matt Fjorden; five greatgrandchildren; brother, Patrick Barney; and mother-inlaw, Alvina Novocin.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 21, 2008, at Bone Lake Lutheran Church, Luck, with the Rev. Mary Ann Bowman officiating.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck, was entrusted with arrangements.

Barbara Jean Johnson/Ball Barbara Jean Johnson/Ball (nee Garlie) a resident of Cheyenne, Wyo., died at the age of 74, on March 31, 2008, at her home after a long battle with cancer.

She was the daughter of Norman and Mrytle Garlie.

She was born in Webster on Sept. 11, 1933. As a young girl, Barbara loved singing at church, and spending time with her family at the cabin on Love Lake. Barbara loved learning. She was the valedictorian of the graduating class of 1951 and was in the marching band.

She married Carl D. Johnson on June 10, 1951. They became dairy farmers in Wisconsin. They later owned a small mercantile in Minnesota. They moved to Wyoming in 1961. Barbara was active in church and Scouting organizations. She worked as a loan officer at First National Bank and Trust which is now Wells Fargo. She was a member of the American Institute of Banking which she served as the representative to the executive council for the bank. She attended Laramie County Community College. She was the president of Zonta for many years. Barbara and Carl moved back to Wisconsin in 1988. She worked at the Firstar Bank in Webster and at the A & H Branch and was the president of this branch. After the death of her first husband of 40 years, she remarried in 1992 to Thomas Ball, a minister in Webster. As a minister’s wife, she continued her journey to serve the Lord.

Barb is survived by her husband, Thomas Ball; her brothers, Norman (Audrey) Garlie and Gary (Sandy) Garlie; her children, Suzanne (Dave) Perry, Carl (Barbara) Johnson, Debby (Robin) Courtier and Sandra (Chris) Bowling; stepchildren, Jennifer (Tate) Borgikowski and Scott (Lisa) Ball; grandchildren, Heather (Jason) Potter, Pat Tobin, Canyon (David) Hardesty, Phillip Bowling, Charliegh Johnson and Eric Johnson; four step-grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; one brother; and a grandson, Steve Courtier.

A memorial service was held Saturday, July 19, 2008, at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor Cindy Glocke officiating. Music was provided by Dianne Gravesen. Interment followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Webster.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Kenneth N. Hinze Sr. Kenneth N. Hinze Sr., 62, a resident of Webster, died July 11, 2008.

He is survived by his children, Kim, Sonny and Becky and seven grandchildren.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Jay R. Falardeaux Jay R. Falardeaux, 71, a resident of Danbury, died July 17, 2008.

Services will be held at a later date. A full obituary will be printed in a upcoming edition.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

OBITUARIES Emma G. Fornengo

Luther Roderick “Lute” Pettis

Emma G. Fornengo, age 79, a resident of New Dosey, died July 16, 2008, at St. Mary’s in Superior.

Emma was born on Oct. 27, 1928, in Burnett County to Marion and Lyda Cockerham.

Emma married Peter Fornengo on Aug. 19, 1951, in Superior.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents; and husband Peter on Nov. 17, 2007.

Emma is survived by her children, Peter (Susan) Fornengo of Superior, Dave (Jewelle) Fornengo of Markville, Minn., and Paul (Cheryl) Fornengo of Grantsburg; sister, Lou (Kermit) Pahnke of Green Bay; brother, Riley Cockerham of Superior; grandchildren, Peter (Stacy) Fornengo, Julie (Randy) Koenen, David (Mandy) Fornengo, Brian (Casey) Fornengo, Jen (Mike) Hansen, Sydney Lomness, Jessie and Josh Hiler, Chad, Jason, and James Canesi, Jeff and Mike Harmon; 12 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were held Monday, July 21, 2008, at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Hendry officiating. Music was provided by Fran McBroom and Pat Taylor. Interment followed at Cloverton Cemetery in New Dosey Township, Pine County, Minn. Honorary pallbearers were Peter Fornengo Jr., David Fornengo, Brian Fornengo, Julie Koenen, Jen Hansen, Sydney Lomness, Jessie Hiler, Josh Hiler, Jeff Harmon, Jim Allen, Jerry Blokyzel, Charlie Canesi, Chad Canesi, Jason Canesi and James Canesi.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Luther Roderick “Lute” Pettis, Osceola, died Friday, July 18, 2008. He was 93.

He was born to Clarence and Hester Pettis on Jan. 4, 1915, in Buffalo, Minn. At an early age, he lost his father in an occupational accident. The family moved to a small farm in Alden Township near the West Immanuel Church. Luther, being the eldest, found employment as a cowboy, locating a ranch in South Dakota that was in need of one. He earned a living in his father’s stead, with boots and cowboy hat still in a closet somewhere. While at home, he met his wife of 73 years at a church function, and quite a large family evolved, as two of Lute’s sisters married two of his wife’s brothers. To the union of Lute and Mayme, seven children were born.

Lute is survived by Mayme, his wife of 73 years; children, Sherman (Elenore) of Osceola, Marlys (Dale Haugen, deceased) of Roberts, Gail (Chuck Beaver, deceased) of Winter, Rebecca (Arvin Larson) of Osceola, Velma (Daryle Larson) of Saginaw, Mich., Mark (Joey) of Hertel and David (Diane) of Osceola. He is also survived by a sister, Jean, in California; as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father; mother; one brother, Leland; and four sisters, Iylla, Mary, Audrey and Ida Dell.

Luther and Mayme began their married life in New Richmond, Lute being employed by Bernard Motors.

They traveled, as their family grew, to Horse Creek, then to Southern Minnesota and his first blacksmith shop in Kasota.

Then it was on to St. Peter, Minn., where he was employed, because of his mechanical skills and abilities,

by Hallet Construction Co. WWII then required these skills be used for defense. He worked for a defense contractor in the Twin Cities, then named Northern Pump, welding and building gun mounts for the U.S. Navy.

Lute eventually purchased a blacksmith shop in Osceola and used his talents with mechanics to support the growing family. He was employed for 19 years with H.G. Stocker and Son. Shortly after moving to Osceola, a group of young men learned of his interest in baseball. Lute became manager of the baseball team. This launched an honest-to-goodness love affair with baseball in Osceola that included construction of a new baseball field, the lights, fences, dugouts, grandstand, uniforms, exhibition games with various semi-pro teams, equipment, managing the Osceola Braves for 19 years and so much more. Also, during his life in Osceola, he hosted a weekly radio program, broadcast on Saturdays over the station in Stillwater, Minn. The name, “Hello From Osceola,” gave him an opportunity to boast of his hometown.

He was a devout Christian.

The memorial service for Luther R. Pettis will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 25, 2008, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Osceola. The Pettis family will be at the church one hour prior to the service.

Eugene H. Johnson Eugene H. Johnson of Osceola died Thursday, July 17, 2008, at his home at the age of 79.

Gene was born Oct. 1, 1928, at Ubet to Harry and Alma Johnson. In 1951, he married Marilynn Joan Anderson, and after her death, he married Marylis Taylor in 1976. Gene worked as a truck driver for over 60 years.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; wives, Marilynn Joan and Marylis; and son, Mike Johnson.

He is survived by his daughter, Pam (Rick) Erickson of Osceola; son, Tom (Mary) Johnson of Bayport, Minn.; stepdaughter, Tammy (Larry) Pennel of Farmington, Minn.; stepson Dan (Laura) Taylor of Minn.; brother, Ercel Johnson of Blanchardville; sisters, Joan Anderson of McAllen, Texas, Anita Mortenson of Somerfield, Fla.; very best friend and companion, Irene Johnson; 10 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, July 22, at Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser with Intern Doug Andersen officiating. Music was provided by Dorothy Lindholm and Pete Peterson. Interment was in the Pleasant Prairie Cemetery in Osceola.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements.

Rodney Eugene Larson Rodney Eugene Larson, St. Croix Falls, died July 18, 2008, at the VA Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn. He was 61.

He was born Oct. 26, 1946, in New Richmond.

Rod served his country proudly and was a Vietnam veteran.

He is survived by daughter, Kristina, of Sioux Falls, S.D.; mother and father, Russell and Wilma Larson; sister, Linda Burke; brothers, Charles Larson and Scott Larson; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial services will be held Friday, July 25, at 2:30 p.m., West Immanuel Lutheran Church in Osceola.

Memorial flowers should be sent to West Immanuel Lutheran Church, 447 180th St., Osceola, WI 54020.

Condolences can be sent to The Family of Rodney Larson, 410 Moody Road, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

Donald L. Shogren Donald L. Shogren, 88, a resident of Grantsburg, died July 18, 2008, at Burnett Medical Center. Memorial services will be held Friday, July 25, 2008, 11 a.m., with visitation from 10 – 11 a.m., at Zion Lutheran Church, Trade Lake.

A full obituary will be printed in a upcoming edition.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Arthur H. Steffen Arthur H. Steffen, 72, formerly of Osceola, died July 14, 2008, surrounded by family at his home in Danbury.

Art was a paratrooper with the Army’s 82nd Airborne, then a founding member of the St. Croix Valley Skydiving Club. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who shared his passions with all who knew him. Art retired as a bricklayer, and then moved with his loving wife of 43 years, Karen, to Yellow Lake near Danbury.

He is survived by Karen; sons, Alan (Jeannie), Terry (Desirae), Mike (Jamie) and daughter, Susan; along with grandchildren, Allison, Tara, Amanda, James and Cole; as well as six siblings, numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.

A funeral service and Mass of Christian burial were held Friday, July 18, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Osceola.

Luella Guetschow Luella Guetschow, age 96, of Superior, died July 20, 2008, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Superior.

Funeral services will be Friday, July 25, at 11 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church in Superior. Visitation will be prior to services from 10 - 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Danbury Cemetery.

A full obituary will be printed in a upcoming edition.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

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PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Children’s television exposure must be limited Q: I am concerned about the impact of television in our home. How can we control it without resorting to dictatorial rules and regulations?

DR. DOBSON: It seems that we have three objectives as parents. First, we want to monitor the quality of the programs our children watch. Second, we want to regulate the quantity of television they see. Even good programs may have an undesirable influence on the rest of children's activities if they spend too much time watching them. Third, we should include the entire family in establishing a TV policy.

I read about a system recently that is very effective in accomplishing all three of these purposes. First, it was suggested that parents sit down with the children and agree upon a list of approved programs that are appropriate for each age level. Then type that list (or at least write it clearly) and enclose it in clear plastic so it can be referred to throughout the week.

Second, either purchase or make a roll of tickets.

Issue each child 10 tickets per week, and let him or her use them to "buy" the privilege of watching the programs on the approved list. When the tickets are gone, television viewing is over for that week. This teaches a child to be discriminating about what is watched. A maximum of 10 hours of viewing per week might be an appropriate place to start, compared with the national average of 40 to 50 hours per week. That's far too much, especially for an elementary-school child.

This system can be modified to fit individual home situations or circumstances. If there's a special program that all the children want to see, such as a feature broadcast or a holiday program during Christmas or Thanksgiving, you can issue more tickets. You might also give extra tickets as rewards for achievement or some other laudable behavior.

The real test will occur when parents reveal whether or not they have the courage to put themselves on that limited system, too.

We often need the same regulations in our viewing habits!

••• Q: My 3-year-old can be counted on to behave like a brat whenever we are in the mall or in a restaurant. He seems to know I will not punish him there in front of other people. How should I handle this tactic?

DR. DOBSON: Let me answer you with an illustration from nature. I'm told that a raccoon can usually kill a dog if he gets him in a lake or river. He will simply pull the hound underwater until he drowns. Most other predatory animals prefer to do battle on the turf of their own choosing.

So do children. If they're going to pick a fight with Mom or Dad, they'd rather stage it in a public place, such as a supermarket or in the church foyer. They are smart enough to know that they are "safer" in front of

Dr. James

Dobson Focus on the Family

other people. They will grab candy or speak in disrespectful ways that would never be attempted at home.

Again, the most successful military generals are those who surprise the enemy in a terrain advantageous to their troops. Public facilities represent the "high ground" for a rambunctious preschooler.

You may be one of the parents who have fallen into the trap of creating "sanctuaries" in which the old rules aren't enforced. It is a certainty that your strong willed son or daughter will notice those safe zones and behave offensively and disrespectfully when there. There is something within the tougher child that almost forces him to "test the limits" in situations where the resolve of adults is in question.

Therefore, I recommend that you lay out the ground rules before you enter those public arenas, making it clear that the same rules will apply. Then if he misbehaves, respond as you would have done at home. His public behavior will improve dramatically.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, P.O. Box 444, Colorado Springs, CO. 80903; or www.family.org. Questions and answers are excerpted from "The Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide" and "Bringing Up Boys," both published by Tyndale House.

Brought to you by:

Siren Assembly of God Siren

Interfaith Caregivers needs drivers POLK COUNTY – Janet’s family has called for help in transporting their mother from Frederic to Adult Day Care in Siren on Tuesday and Webster on Thursday. Interfaith Caregivers is looking for several drivers who will alternate to take her. The hours of day care are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (drivers do not need to stay with her). Will you make time to help provide transporta-

tion? Your gift of time and mileage will make a big difference to someone in need!

Interfaith Caregivers also provides services such as friendly visits, phone calls, short-term respite care, shopping and errands, minor repairs, business help and more. There is no charge for their services. Donations are appreciated.

Interfaith Caregivers need more responsible volunteers to provide rides for the elderly and those living with disabilities in Polk County. Can you help them provide transportation in your community?

If you are interested in volunteering, please call their office at 483-9263. – submitted

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

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PUBLIC AUCTION: Aug. 6, 2008, Grantsburg Mini-Storage, 2 p.m. Personal effects, household goods & misc. items belonging to Judy Cornelison, #22. 48-49c HOUSE FOR RENT: 2-3 BRs, 2-car garage. Ref. required, $650 + utilities, 715566-0369. 48-49Lp

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48Lp PUBLIC AUCTION: Aug. 6, 2008, Luck Mini-Storage, noon. Personal effects, household goods & misc. items belonging to Yvonne Cheever, #18. 48-49c

PUBLIC AUCTION: Aug. 6, 2008, Balsam Lake Mini-Storage, 8:30 a.m.

Personal effects, household goods & misc. items belonging to the following: Greg Tougas #51 and Mary Paulzine #36. 48-49c WE HAVE PARTS for tractors, combines, machinery, hay equipment and more.

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JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 31

Lucky Days • 2008 • Bed Race & Talent Show

While running the course during the bed races in Luck on Friday, July 18, each team had to complete tasks and for every task completed, time was subtracted from their recorded time. The New York Life team won this year’s bed races with times of 11 seconds in the first heat and 28 seconds in the second heat. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Taylor Swift’s “Our Song” was the dance choice for these four young ladies.

“The Wizard of Oz” team of Bone Lake won the best dressed trophy for their costumes in the bed races on Friday, July 18. There were other members of their team dressed up who did not compete in the race, but handed out apples and played music during the “Wizard of Oz” performance in the race.

Maxwell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. came in second place behind New York Life during the bed races Friday. Their teammember on the bed tossed beanbags into a bucket for a chance to shave seconds of their time.

Amy Hacker played guitar and sang during the Lucky Days talent show on Main Street Saturday, July 19.

Ashley Valentine performed a song she had written titled “Beautiful” during Saturday’s talent show in Luck.

Another guitar player performed during the talent show. There were no prizes given out, as it was to showcase local talent.

This group of ladies performed a dance to “Step Up,” by Samantha Jade.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - JULY 23, 2008

Lucky Days • 2008 • Parade

Luck Winter Carnival Royalty attempted to stay dry with umbrellas as they smiled and waved to people attending the parade.

Since the fire in the building of Flowers Forever, the flower shop is back open for business and had a float in the Lucky Days parade.

Parade-goers, including this dog, wait for the Lucky Days parade to start Saturday afternoon.

John Deere was the theme of the tractor and its drivers as they took their spot in the Luck Community Clubhosted Lucky Days parade.

United Pioneer Home’s King Norman and Queen Evelyn made an appearance at the parade in Luck.

– Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

The Osceola royalty float was not only picked as the best float during the Lucky Days parade, but was also the very last float to make its way down Main Street. The parade was called due to the severe thunderstorm warning issued to the area.

Where’s the candy, these girls wondered as they waited on the curb for the next float on Main Street in Luck.

Milltown Royalty’s water-themed float fit right in with the wet weather at the Lucky Days parade on Saturday, July 19.

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

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STUFF YOU WON’ T FIND IN OUR PRINT EDITION

The 2nd annual Tug Across the River involved several contests with local dignitaries and firefighters taking part. Above, royalty from St. Croix Falls (L to R Second Princess Brandi Swenson, queen candidate Jessica Rohm, First Princess Angie Sommer and Miss SCF Ashley Kolve) catch their collective breath after taking part in one of the contests. The pull involves a tug of war with the rope stretched across the St. Croix River with contestants from Taylors Falls at the Lions Park on the Minnesota side and contestants from St. Croix Falls at the Lions Park on the Wisconsin side. - Photos by Gary and Sandy King

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PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

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A car owned by Brian Chryst of Dresser was one of several vintage autos on display at the Wannigan Days Classic Car Show, held at the Thompson Parkway in downtown St. Croix Falls over the weekend. The man at right is unidentified. - Photo by Gary King

Water rescue training The emergency responders use the water-rescue craft to remove the victim to where they can start medical care. Terry Leckel, Keith Dahlstrom, Tom Viltz, and Deb Anderson participate in this training exercise.

Photos by Larry Samson

Removing a drowning victim is a dangerous situation for the emergency responders, this is why they train for actual situations. Firefighters and EMTs slip a flotation backboard under the victim to help secure and stabilize the individual, then remove him or her from the water.

A hovercraft from the St. Croix Tribal Police took part in a joint water rescue training with North Ambulance and the Shell Lake Fire Department on Shell Lake Saturday, July 19. The hovercraft is able to go anywhere, under any conditions.

In a situation where time is crucial, the emergency responders quickly get the victim to shore using the water-rescue craft. The water-rescue craft can be also used in thin-ice situations in a cold-water rescue.

JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

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One sentenced to prison in check fraud case

by Regan Kohler WASHBURN COUNTY – Philip G. Nelson, one of three named in a check fraud ring last summer, was sentenced to prison after guilty and no-contest pleas last week.

Nelson, 41, Elk River, Minn., faced five counts of burglary and forgery after many stolen checks were popping up in northwestern Wisconsin and Minnesota early last summer. Nelson and two other Minnesota residents – Tamara Jo Dempsey, 37, Columbia Heights, and Scott R. Holgate, 43, Plymouth – were arrested not long afterward. Dempsey was identified after a check was forged in a Sarona establishment; she pled no contest to one count of forgery, while the other was dismissed. She was sentenced to three years incarceration, but it was withheld. She currently remains in the Isanti County Jail in Minnesota.

Nelson was found guilty Monday, July 14, in the Washburn County Courthouse, of three felony counts of burglary and two felony counts of forgery. He pled guilty to the first two counts of burglary and no contest to the rest.

Some of the charges stemmed from surrounding counties, with many Washburn County establishments named in the burglary charge.

Nelson was sentenced to seven years in prison for the first count of burglary, with seven more consecutive on the second count.

He will have three years in prison concurrent to these for the forgery charges, and five years of extended supervision following. The last burglary charge sees a sentence of seven years and six months in prison, withheld.

Holgate faces three burglary and two forgery charges, but has yet to be sentenced. He will have a conference in late July.

Above is the letter sent by General David Petraeus to Frederic resident Linda Hager for her work with the Cookie Brigade.

See page 3 of this week’s news section for story.

The Siren village royalty appeared in the Wannigan Days parade last Saturday - and in keeping with the theme of the celebration’s 50-year anniversary, wore 1950s-era clothes, including T-shirts that read “Pink Ladies.” Photo by Gary King

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

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Lu ck y D a ys The Lucky Days parade last Saturday afternoon got rained out but part of the event was held before the hard rain fell. Above, a young man found some comfort on a bed used for the annual bed race event, Friday evening. Red Hat officials tried to keep dry during Saturday’s parade. At right, Luck Girl Scouts marched down Main Street.

Below, local Legion members led the Lucky Days parade. - Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

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JULY 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

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Wa nniga n Days At least one parade-goer found some elbow room at the 50th Wannigan Days parade held last Saturday evening (photo upper right). Taylors Falls Royal Lady of the Village Barbara Anderson (photo at left) and newly-crowned Miss St. Croix Falls Ashley Kolve (photo at right) were among dozens of community representatives to take part in the parade. In the photo above, the Tribal Spirit of the Sun belly dancers performed on a float during the parade.

Below, the Larsen Auto float. - Photos by Gary King

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 23, 2008

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Chad Maki raced extremely well all weekend at the 32nd annual Grantsburg Watercross Championship event, held on Memory Lake. The sounds of snowmobiles, fireworkds and live music filled the air in the small village as the band Keystone (left) took the stage. Photos by Kerri Harter

G r a n t sbu rg W at er c r o ss week en d