Leader|july 3|2007

INTER-COUNTY

‘Follow the Leader’

Since 1933

SAMPLE July 3, 2007 2 sections • Vol. 71 • No. 45 8,000 copies

the-leader

.net

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Hazel Hindsley is new tribal chairperson

SECTION A

$

1

Patriot times two

First woman tribal council leader in history of St. Croix Tribe; she and members pledge openness, Page 2 togetherness Hazel Hindsley

New Miss Balsam Lake

Roomate’s motorcycle driven 150 mph down Hwy. 8 Minnesota man faces felony charge of knowingly fleeing officer Page 3

Bethanie (Beth) Rice was crowned Miss Balsam Lake 2007, Friday evening. She is the daughter of Brian and Kim Rice and Karen and Robert Pennings.

More Freedom Festival photos in Currents Section. –Photo by Tammi Milberg

Ground breaking for new casino today Will replace present Hole In The Wall casino at Danbury See www.the-leader.net

I N S I D E The Big Read CURRENTS FEATURE

Devils Lake hosts boat parade Currents section

Watercross, Frederic style Inside this section

These future Bassmasters enjoyed a frozen treat while riding in a new bass boat during the Balsam Lake Freedom Fest parade on Sunday. More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Marty Seeger

Legendary artist/poet donates art to St. Croix Falls Arts District Art piece to be shown at July 19 event

ST. CROIX FALLS - Lawrence Ferlinghetti, artist and poet, has dedicated a piece of art to the St. Croix Festival Theatre in appreciation of the city of St. Croix Falls efforts at creating an arts district, in honor of the River Spirit sculpture unveiling, and to encourage support for the St. Croix Falls Festival Theatre.

The art piece will be shown as part of an art opening on Thursday, July 19, at 7 p.m. at the Galleria di Marchese, located at 102 South Washington Street in the Heritage Mall in downtown St. Croix Falls. The July 19 art opening will also feature the artwork of two local artists.

Ferlinghetti, born in 1919, is recognized as one of America’s most notable Beat Poets – having authored “A Coney Island Of The Mind” which has sold more then 1 million copies.

Ferlinghetti is also co-owner of City

Lawrence Ferlinghetti is recognized as one of the most influential and important poets of the Beat movement.

– Photo from Wikipedia.com Lights Bookstore in San Francisco which is the company that published early literary works of the Beat generation, and helped to launch the careers of Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg.

Ferlinghetti’s paintings have been shown at various galleries around the world, from the Butler Museum of

See Donation, back page

No t e s f r o m I r a q See page 10

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

New St. Croix Tribal Council takes oath

Members pledge openness, togetherness

by Gregg Westigard MAPLE PLAIN – The newly elected members of the St. Croix Tribal Council took their oaths of office Wednesday, June 27, at the Maple Plain Community Center west of Cumberland. The five council members then addressed a large group who had gathered for prayers and a feast. The event included many members of the Elder Coalition, a group that has been working for a new constitution for the St. Croix Chippewa Indian Tribe. The coalition had supported the newly elected members, some of whom defeated long-term incumbents.

Tribal elder Lee Staples started the celebration with a blessing in Ojibwe followed by a tobacco ceremony. Staples said the council faces a difficult task. He said it was important for all to work together for the common good of the Anishinaabe people.

Tribal judge Gloria Merrill delivered the oath of office to the council members after which each member addressed the gathering. The five stressed a goal of working together with the community.

Several mentioned the need for a new constitution. (See story at right for individual statements.)

The council members were then presented with gifts from the community, including blankets, handmade quilts from tribal elder Eileen Skinaway, and sacred eagle feathers. Tribal drummers sang an Ojibwe song. The celebration ended with a community feast.

The tribal council now includes Hazel Hindsley, the new council chairperson, Gloria Benjamin, vice chair, Jerald Lowe, secretary/treasurer, Elmer “Jay” Emery and Michael Decorah. Hindsley was re-elected to represent the Maple Plain community and Benjamin was reelected to the Danbury community seat.

Lowe was elected to the Round Lake seat, replacing David “Maabin” Merrill, the outgoing chair. Emery and Decorah were elected to the two Sand Lake (Hertel area) seats, defeating Lewis Taylor and Leo Butler.

St. Croix tribal judge Gloria Merrill delivered the oath of office to the new members of the St. Croix Tribal Council last Wednesday. The gathering and celebration at the Maple Plain tribal community center west of Cumberland drew a large crowd. Council members shown (L to R) are Hindsley, Gloria Hazel Benjamin, Jerald Lowe, Elmer “Jay” Emery and Michael Decorah. - Photos by Gregg Westigard

Council members state goals

by Gregg Westigard MAPLE PLAIN – Each of the five members of the St. Croix Tribal Council addressed the gathering at the Maple Plain Community Center last Wednesday, June 27. They spoke of trust, openness, and the start of a new era for the tribe. Several mentioned support for a new constitution for the tribe.

“This is the start of a new era for the tribe,” said Hazel Hindsley, the newly elected council chairperson. “We want government by the people of the tribe.

You are all going to have a voice. We have a big job in front of us. We need a strategic plan for the tribe.”

Hindsley went on to promise open council meetings. She said the council will bring information to the people and called for each of her fellow council members to meet with their community. Hindsley also stated support for a new, updated constitution. She closed by thanking the voters for their support and thanking the Elder Coalition for their leadership.

“Before the casino, we had community and family,” Vice Chair Gloria Benjamin said. “Let’s go back to being the St. Croix tribe. We need to be friends, to help each other, no matter what the problem, no matter what your last name is.”

Benjamin said she wants to get the tribal halls open again for the kids and

Eagles are a sacred bird for the Ojibwe. Harriet, an eleven-year-old bald eagle was present at the oath ceremony at Maple Plain. The bird, which can not fly due to an injury, lives at the new National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minn. the young moms. She also said it is important to get the elders back to work. Benjamin closed by saying that everyone needs to know what is going on at the tribal center.

“I will do my best to keep your trust in me,” said Jerald Lowe, the new secretary/treasurer. “I will sign docu-

St. Croix tribal elder Lee Staples presented sacred eagle feathers to the new tribal council members. The members also received blankets and quilts made by another elder, Eileen Skinaway. Standing (left to right) are Hazel Hindsley, Gloria Benjamin, Jerald Lowe, Elmer "Jay" Emery and Michael Decorah. Hanging in the background is another large quilt representing the communities in the St. Croix tribe.

INTER-COUNTY

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

How to subscribe:

The Inter-County Leader [ISS No. 8750-9091] is published weekly. Subscription prices are $30/yr. in Polk and Burnett counties $34/yr. in Barron, Chisago, Washburn, St. Croix counties; $37/yr. anywhere in the United States $22/yr. for servicemen or women $22/yr. for students or schools (9 months).

Payment is needed before we can start the subscription. No refunds on subscriptions.

Persons may subscribe online at www.the-leader.net, write us at Inter-County Leader, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837, or stop by one of our three offices.

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

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.

Member • National Newspaper Association • Wisconsin Newspaper Association

HOW TO REACH US: Web page: www.the–leader.net E-mail: the-leader@centurytel.net (send all news releases here)

Subscription concerns: subscriptions@centurytel.net Advertisements: addept@centurytel.net Deadline for ads and copy: 10 a.m. Tuesdays

OFFICES Frederic

P.O. Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 (M-F, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

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

Siren

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

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

St. Croix Falls

Box 338, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024

History of the Leader can be (M-W, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thurs. & Fri. 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.) viewed at: www.the-leader.net 715-483-9008 • Fax - 715-483-1420

ments for the good of the tribe.” He thanked the members and said he still needs their help.

“We have a big family,” said Elmer “Jay” Emery. “Sometimes there are different issues for the different communities. But we are all one tribe. We have work to do. We all need to be on the same page. The council can’t do the job alone. We need your help. Trust us, ask us questions. We need to talk about our differences and go forward.”

“This is a really good day for the future of the tribe,” Michael Decorah said. “This is a new day for the St. Croix people. I feel welcomed home and blessed. We are creating history for our tribe.”

“Voting is our only democratic right now,” Decorah continued. “That will change. We will change our constitution to serve all tribal members. I thank the Elder Coalition for constitutional change. I will not let you down.”

Decorah went on to mention some other key issues including education at all levels and health care. He promised to help protect the students in the public schools from racism. Decorah concluded by thanking all who contributed to the change and all who have provided leadership and inspiration in the past. He called on the people to work together for the best interests of all the tribe.

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

Suspicious fire SWISS – The Danbury Fire Department requested that the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department investigate a suspicious vehicle fire that occurred June 27.

A pickup truck had caught fire, but the fire had originated from a propane tank found near the scene.

The sheriff’s department was able to read VINnumbers from the vehicle, and it was found that the vehicle was stolen May 11 from Houston Ford Dealership in Pine River, Minn.

The stolen vehicle was a red 2000 Dodge Dakota. Cass County authorities were notified. The incident is under investigation. – Sherill Summer with information from the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department

Briefly BAGHDAD - Embedded local journalist Wayne M. Anderson is on his way home from Iraq this week. He filed his last story from Camp Liberty, near Baghdad. Prior to that he spent two weeks up north at Camp Taji. “It went so fast here,” he e-mailed. “I could have stayed another two weeks. So much to do.” He plans to file a final report from his home in West Sweden.

••• HINCKLEY, Minn. - Thousands of motorcyclists will hit the open road on Saturday, July 14, as part of the Vikings’ Ride for Life event, which benefits the Vikings Children’s Fund. The charitable fund donates money to various children’s charities in Minnesota. Due to major road construction at the 694/35E corridor, all riders will find alternate routes to the Hinckley Amphitheater. They will be greeted at the Hinckley Amphitheater around 1:30 p.m., with a welcome party featuring food and beverages, live music from Deveta, autographs from present and former Vikings players, a silent auction and $20,000 in cash prizes. Prizes include Vikings season tickets, a getaway trip, tickets to the Vikings/Packers game, autographs, jerseys, footballs and more. submitted ••• DANBURY - In a display of support for U.S. troops, employees at the Hole In The Wall Casino in Danbury are wearing red T-shirts on Fridays. The shirt have the American flag printed on the front, with the words, “We Support Our Troops,” shown below the flag. A total of 240 of the shirts were ordered for casino employees. Casino Marketing Director Steve Thoreson said, “With the Fourth of July coming up, we just thought that this would be a good idea and a good time to do it.” - submitted ••• STATEWIDE - Some people are reporting a telephone scam that involves a person identifying himself as a phone technician who calls homes under the pretense of checking telephone lines. He asks the person who answers to touch 9, 0 and the pound sign and then hang up.

Apparently, people who comply are giving the caller information that enables them to place long distance calls billed to the home phone number they called. submitted

Spooner man pleads not guilty by reason of mental disease in sex assault case SIREN – Max Moran, 20, Spooner, has pled not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect on two sexual assault charges and one child abuse charge.

He entered the plea at his preliminary hearing last Friday, June 29, at the Burnett County Courthouse. The charges stem from an incident in the town of Swiss on Aug. 1, 2006.

According to the police report, Moran went to the victim’s house looking for the victim’s sister. The 12-year-old victim at the time of the incident was alone. She let Moran into the house, and they talked for awhile before Moran allegedly pushed the victim to the floor, hit her 20 to 25 times and tried to rape her. Within an hour and a half, authorities were looking for Moran who had left the residence riding a bicycle. He was found in the village of Webster and taken into custody after the victim identified him.

The victim was examined at Burnett Medical Center where they found no evidence of penetration, but the victim did have a rug burn and her eye was swollen.

Moran was examined at the Burnett County jail and was found to have fresh scratches on his body.

Bond has been set for $3,500. – Sherill Summer

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Balsam Lake woman nabbed in marijuana sale at school Two arrests net about 2.8 pounds of marijuana POLK COUNTY - A 48-year-old woman who lives within walking distance of the Unity School in Balsam Lake was arrested Friday and charged with delivery of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, having marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school and a tax stamp violation.

Lynn M. Krueger of 190th Ave., allegedly sold marijuana to undercover officers with the Polk County Sheriff’s Departent in a sting operation that involved a 20-year-old woman who served as a delivery person for Krueger. Amber M. Larson was taken into custody after delivering the marijuana to the undercover officers and retrieving change for the purchase from Krueger.

Krueger gave officers permission to search the house where they found five bags of marijuana in a lock-box style safe in Krueger’s bedroom, along with a marijuana pipe and other paraphernalia. Also found were a digital scale, a .22 pistol and four more bags of marijuana.

On Saturday, Polk officers arrested Christopher Okorie, 22, of Brooklyn Center, Minn., charging him with possession with intent to distribute or deliver marijuana.

The arrest stemmed from an incident

Two arrests by Polk County Sheriff’s deputies this past weekend netted about 1,278 grams of marijuana, or 2.8 pounds, a handgun and a total of about $3,600 in cash. One arrest was in downtown Balsam Lake, the other in the Unity School parking lot. The suspect was living within walking distance from the school. - Photos submitted in downtown Balsam Lake when a citizen approached an officer with information about a black male who was allegedly going into a tavern, bringing drinks out and allowing young kids to drink them, during the Freedom Festival.

The officer made contact with the man - Okorie - and while he was checking for warrants via his radio - he saw Okorie walk over towards a fence on the east side of Main Street and toss two bags of contraband.

The officer immediately arrested

Okorie and discovered a large amount of cash was in his pocket, totaling $2,617. The contraband tested positive for marijuana.

A search later of Okorie’s car - a green Cadillac - turned up a Tidy Cat litter container with 685 grams of marijuana, a shoe with $960 in cash, a digital scale and packaging baggies.

Okorie, according to the officer’s report, has a prior criminal history of possession of marijuana. - with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department

Luck funds 07 street projects

by Gregg Westigard LUCK – The Luck village council awarded bids for the 2007 street projects, discussed its options for creating a comprehensive plan, and looked at the playground equipment needs for the Fort Luck Park at its monthly meeting Monday night, July 2. The meeting was held two days earlier than its normal first Wednesday because if the July 4th holiday.

Work will start soon on the 2007 village street paving projects. The council approved a bid of $24,550 to pave 4th Street between Park and Butternut and $12,950 to pave 8th Street from Lakeview to Butternut. State aid will pay $12,000 of the first project. In a related item, a member of the public asked the council to repave Chippewa Trail between 150th and 145th , calling

Bat tests positive SHELL LAKE — A bat in Washburn County tested positive for rabies on Friday, June 29.

This is the first case of rabies in an animal identified in Washburn County this year, although bats are the leading source of rabies in Wisconsin.

Rabies is a viral disease affecting the central nervous system. It is transmitted from infected mammals to man and is invariably fatal once symptoms appear. Human rabies is rare in the United States, but still frequently occurs in many developing nations.

The most recent case of human rabies in Wisconsin occurred in 2000; the last case prior to that occurred in 1959.

Because bites and scratches from bats may go unnoticed if a person is sleeping, is very young, or is mentally incapacitated, a physician should be contacted if a bat is found in the same room with a young child or with a sleeping or mentally incapacitated adult.

Persons who are bitten by any mammal should promptly cleanse the bite wound with liberal amounts of soap and water, and contact their physician and their local health department. — from Washburn County Health Department, excerpt from WI DPH rabies fact sheet

the road south of the golf course the worst in the village. The stretch is divided between the village (75 percent) and the town of Luck (25 percent).

All municipalities in Polk County must develop a comprehensive plan before 2010. The county is hiring a planner work with any of the 35 towns, villages, and cities that still need to create a Smart Growth plan, but local governments can hire anyone to do the work. Luck resident David Rasmussen was present at the meeting to submit a bid from MSA Professional Services, where he is a Senior Planner.

Rasmussen told the council that MSA has a track record of developing comprehensive plans and is at present contracted to do plans for municipalities in Eau Claire County. He said MSA offers experience and could possibly complete the plan in a shorter period of time. The MSA cost to help the village develop its plan would be $22,000, similar to the amount Polk County would charge. A grant will pay $12,000 of the cost, regardless of who does the work.

The council must make a decision on the matter at its August meeting.

Council Member Eugene Cooper asked if there are any plans to fix or replace the playground equipment at Fort Luck, the village park. He said that some of the equipment is 30 years old and in poor shape. Village President Richard Callister said that much of the equipment is way past its useful life but added that providing new equipment for the park would be a big, expensive project. The village has no plans at present to improve Fort Luck.

That brought up another future item.

Village clerk/treasurer Kathy Hanson said the village cemetery now pays its own maintenance expenses but may deplete its reserves in two to three years and its costs might need to be added to the village budget. Callister said this is an issue that needs to be studied.

The council also adopted new employee workplace policies on tobacco use and personal cell phones, similar to work policies now in force for the golf course. Now village employees will be allowed to smoke only on breaks and only in approved areas.

They will not be allowed to smoke in

village offices, shops or vehicles, including entryways and parking lots.

In addition, use of personal cell phones by employees will not be allowed during working hours, except for family emergencies.

Man on roommate’s motorcycle reaches speeds of 150 mph POLK COUNTY - A 20-year-old Minnesota man apologized “several times” while being arrested for knowingly fleeing an officer, driving a motorcycle at speeds up to 150 miles per hour or more.

Junaid Kamal Khan of St. Anthony, Minn., allegedly told the arresting officer that he hit speeds of at least 160 miles per hour and, after apologizing, stated the motorcycle belonged to his roomate, who was unaware of his taking the cycle.

Khan was observed driving east on Hwy. 8 at approximately 2:30 a.m., Saturday.

A Polk County Sheriff’s deputy wrote in his report that his radar indicated the motorcycle was traveling at 82 miles per hour. He pulled his fully marked squad car to the shoulder of the road and turned on his emergency lights. The motorcycle then accelerated, the officer noted, to more than 130 miles per hour, passing a car in a nopass area and continued to accelerate.

The officer followed to the county line and terminated the pursuit. Turtle Lake Police Department set up at Hwy. 63 and Hwy. 8 in an effort to intervene.

The Polk deputy and Turtle Lake officers continued eastbound at nonemergency speeds and shortly thereafter noticed the motorcycle had pulled over, and another officer had Kahn at gunpoint.

The Polk deputy took him into custody.

“He stated he was an idiot, and he didn’t know why he ran,” the officer noted. “I didn’t question him.” - with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Department

k a lt

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Burnett County creates law enforcement citizens auxiliary

Siren Police report June 20: A collision of vehicles driven by Melissa Ann Horwath, 15, Siren, and Kyle R. Malm, 17, Siren, occurred at 10:35 p.m. at the stoplight intersection. An unidentified silver vehicle, which left the scene, had allegedly distracted Malm prior to the collision. The silver vehicle, according to the report, pulled forward to make a right turn onto CTH B, then went into reverse and pulled forward again.

June 23: Peggy S. Conley, 47, Webster, was arrested on Old Hwy. 35 by the North States

parking lot at 2:30 a.m. for operating while intoxicated and driving with a prohibited alcohol concentration of .08 percent or higher. The officer on duty had been following Conley after her vehicle left Hwy. 35/70 because of the pattern of her driving.

June 27: Johnathon J. Packard, 16, Webster, was cited for speeding at 6:55 p.m. on Hwy. 35 and Olson Street.

Just before midnight, Bradley R. Spafford, 21, Webster, was cited for misdemeanor battery following an incident with a female.

Burnett County warrants

Local police chiefs join Burnett County Sheriff Dean Roland to introduce a new law enforcement citizens auxiliary. (L to R) St. Croix Tribal Police Chief Frank Taylor; Siren Police Chief Chris Sybers; Burnett County Sheriff Dean Roland; Webster Police Chief Mike Spafford and Grantsburg Police Chief Jeff Shinzing. - Photo by Sherill Summer SIREN – Burnett County is creating a law enforcement citizens auxiliary. Citizens who wish to help during times of emergency, such as flooding, tornados, missing persons or crowd control may apply to be a part of the auxiliary until

Friday, Aug. 3. Applications are available at the Webb Lake, Grantsburg, Webster, Siren and St. Croix Tribal police departments and the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department. An information meeting for those who apply will

explain details of the new program.

The new program is paid for by a $16,246 grant. - Sherill Summer with information from the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department

Siren Lioness Club elect officers

Michael Beyerlein, 50, Spring Grove, Ill., warrant – failure to appear, June 27.

Kristopher R. Hicks, 36, Frederic, warrant – failure to appear, June 25.

Ramona M. Jack, 19, Lac Du Flambeau, warrant – failure to appear, June 27.

Tina M. Jenson, 40, Sarona, commitment, June 26.

Russell W. Lindbom, 39, Danbury, warrant – failure to appear, June 27.

Andrea L. Martin, 41, Lindstrom, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, June 27.

Micheal J. Morgan, 28, St. Michael, Minn., commitment, June 25.

Ginger K. Nelson, 38, Cedar, Minn., arrest warrant – complaint. June 26.

Amy P. Nordhougen, 29, Burnsville, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Scott P. Nyberg, 42, Danbury, commitment, June 26.

Scott E. Nyreen, 35, Spooner, commitment, June 26.

Kevin R. Petron, 38, Fergus Falls, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Autumn R. Pewaush, 21, Webster, commitment, June 26.

Danielle M. Reynolds, 21, Shell Lake, warrant – failure to appear, June 25.

Lisa L. Ricci, 33, New Auburn, commitment, June 26.

Nicholas A. Robey, 20, Minneapolis, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Angela M. Rogers, 27, Winfield, Iowa, commitment, June 26.

Christopher L. Rosseau, 20, Oakdale, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Alanna D. Salkind, 20, Milltown, commitment, June 26.

Robert M. Sargent, 38, Somerset, commitment, June 26.

Leonard L. Schrofer, 64, Alexandria, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Joseph L. Schultz, 24, Pine City, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Barry R. Scruggs, 34, Hayward, commitment, June 26.

Cheyenna S. Sears, 20, Siren, commitment, June 26.

David J. Smith, 32, Oakdale, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Odie M. Smith, 39, Rock Island, Ill., commitment, June 26.

Angila R. Snyder, 22, Hinckley, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Shawn M. Songetay, 33, Siren, commitment, June 26.

Julia C. Stenbro, 22, St. Paul, Minn., commitment, June 26.

Aaron M. Stroot, 18, Webster, commitment, June 26.

Burnett Co. criminal court

Officers of the Siren Lioness Club for year 2007-2008. Back row (L to R): Lioness Judy Johnson, Lioness Joan Chapman, Lioness Sandy Ferguson, Lioness Nancy Tamminga, Lioness Charlene Hyslop, Lioness Anke Olesen, Lioness Lory Maurer and Lioness Faye Russ. Front row: Lioness Miriam Smith, Lioness Jeanette Olson and Lioness Mary Jo Bierman. - Photo submitted

Beloit casino issue heats up BELOIT - A letter from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to the Ho-Chunk tribe has re-ignited an ongoing feud over a proposed off-reservation casino in Beloit.

The Beloit casino proposal is joint project of the St. Croix and Bad River Chippewa bands. If approved by federal officialsz and Governor Doyle, it would be the first off- reservation casino for both tribes. But it faces strong opposition from the Ho-Chunk tribe that operates casinos in the Wisconsin Dells area. Last year, the Ho-Chunk proposed becoming a third partner in the project. But Bad River tribal spokesman Joe Hunt says negotiations broke down in January when the BIA regional office approved the original Chippewa partnership. He says once that happened, the Ho- Chunk went on the offensive against the casino. He says what occurred was almost like a war in the media with letters and press releases coming from the Ho-Chunk to the BIA saying there were fatal flaws in the project and objecting to nearly everything about it.

Last week, the BIA sent a letter to the Ho-Chunk making it clear the Chippewa’s Beloit casino project was still on track though not yet approved in Washington. That has sparked protest from the HoChunk. Spokeswoman Nancy Greendeer says the letter doesn’t address her tribe’s complaint that an Indian Court of Claims has found the Chippewa bands don’t have the historic ties to the Beloit area required by federal tribal gaming law. She says given that finding, the law clearly states that these two tribes are not qualified to have the land put into trust for the purposes of gaming.

But the Chippewa say they have documented treaty connections to the Beloit area and insist the HoChunk object to their casino mainly because they fear competition with their own casinos. They note that the Ho-Chunk is pursuing plans of its own for an offreservation casino in Illinois. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halstead)

Accidents Town of Sand Lake, June 25: Steven R. Pool, 49, Rice Lake, was eastbound on a motorcycle when a bear entered the roadway, hitting the motorcycle. The driver lost control as the bike went into a skid. The driver was taken by ambulance to Spooner hospital.

Village of Grantsburg, June 27: Max C. Gorkiewicz, 32, Grantsburg, was southbound on West Olson Drive when his vehicle left the roadway, hit a power pole and trees before coming to a rest. The driver was cited for OWI and failure to maintain control.

Town of Oakland, June 30: Kim C. Bartholomew, 51, White Bear Lake, Minn., was northbound on Hwy. 35 when she hit a deer. There were no reported injuries.

Town of Oakland, June 29: Robert B. Elkins, 22, Webster, was westbound on a snowmobile trail and had stopped to assist another vehicle further west who was stuck. His truck then started on fire. The vehicle was towed due to damages. The driver was cited for criminal trespassing.

Jared M. Schowalter, 19, Webster, was cited for trespassing as well.

Arrests Town of Meenon, June 27: Brad R. Spafford, 21, Webster, was arrested for battery.

Town of Meenon, June 29: Debra W. Zimmerman, 50, was arrested on a Barron County

warrant.

Village of Webster, June 29: Raymond R. Olson, 76, Webster, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Village of Grantsburg, June 27: Anthony W. Hammes, 24, Dalbo, Minn., was arrested in Polk County warrant.

Village of Grantsburg, June 27: Christina C. Allred, 26, Grantsburg, was cited for disorderly conduct but not arrested because she was nursing a child.

Gregg J. Allred, 33, Grantsburg, was cited and arrested for disorderly conduct.

Other incidents Town of Sand Lake, June 29: Richard Lee, 55, Boyceville, reported the theft of a snowmobile trailer. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Wood River, June 29: Gerald T. Olinger, Grantsburg, reported his mailbox damaged.

The incident is under investigation.

Town of Webb Lake, June 29: Gary M. Dorale, 59, Danbury, reported the theft of a camera, CDs, CD player, fish locater, DVD player, DVDs, kitchen items, speakers, power tools, and an amplifier. The incident is under investigation.

Town of Blaine, July 1: Mavis A. Lane, Champlin, Ill., reported her fire number sign and two propane tanks knocked to the ground. A shed was entered, but nothing appeared to have been taken. The incident is under investigation.

Your News on the Web: www.the-leader.net

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

Dresser to sell bonds

by Tammi Milberg DRESSER–The village of Dresser will be selling refunding general obligation bonds to help with the costs of the CTH F road project. Brian Reilly, Ehlers & Associates, explained that the village will authorize the sale of $525,000 in general obligation bonds, and the total debt of the village for the end of the year would be $1.3 million. This leaves the village with $1.685 left in their borrowing capacity. The board carried the motion to pass the bonding resolution with all in favor.

In related news, the CTH F project update by Scott McCurdy of Cedar Corp indicated that final lifts and pave-

ment markings should go in next week on the area that already has lifts put down. The construction crew is not working this week, but it was noted that there were some complaints about the to soil put down. McCurdy stated that the right of way will be watered by the crew but only for the first 30 days or after germination begins. After that, McCurdy explained, it is up to the property owner to water. It was noted that the village may need to notify those property owners because they may not be aware of that.

Also, the village board approved a pay request for $164,797.54 for CTH F/State Street to CTH F and CTH K.

In other business the board approved a planned unit development with John Fraley for the Cottages at Dresser Junction after hearing the recommendation from village attorney Tim Laux.

The board set a public hearing for Aug. 6, at 6 p.m., for the planned unit development, which is prior to the regular board meeting.

•The board approved the final lat for Timber Ridge, second addition. This is the Gary Verhasselt Development along 235 Street in the town of Osceola. The first addition is along 235 and 90 streets.

•A motion to use local road improvement program dollars for Blaisdell Ave. was carried with all in favor. The project

is approved for the LRIP funds, but will not be done until 2008.

•Approved operator licenses for Ione DeNucci, Myron Schmitz and Michael Tobeck.

•Approved the finance committee’s recommendation for renewal of the property/liability/workers comp/boiler&Machinery/crime insurance for 2007 with a $1,000 deductible.

•Approved advertising in the Polk County Tourism Guide for a cost of $605.

•Announced the Neighborhood Watch group will host a National Night Out event Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Pedaling for Home, Habitat for Humanity Will pass through St. Croix Falls July 11 ST. CROIX FALLS - On his 11th annual bike ride for Habitat for Humanity, cyclist Tim Dellett of Brooklyn, NY is pedaling 1900 miles for affordable housing.

This month long epic bicycle journey started in New York City June 21 and joins up with the annual Habitat 500 mile ride in Minnesota. Dellett states, “I ride my bike every year for Habitat.

I ride because I am passionate about the mission of Habitat for Humanity. I ride hearing the laughter of children who now have their own lawn to play on and rooms of their own. I ride seeing the pride of ownership on the faces of parents. I ride after working side by side with future homeowners, pounding nails in the construction of their own home. I ride because it is more than an intention - it is real, and it has worth.”

Dellett’s philosophy for this year’s ride is a quote from Mary Oliver: "Tell me, what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" The first weeks of cycling, Dellett pedaled solo crossing New York, Ontario and Michigan. This third week across the state of Wisconsin, Nancy Wilkie of Madison will join Dellett from Manitowoc (July 6), Shawano (July 7-8), onto Merrill (July 9), Cornell (July 10), and St. Croix Falls (July 11). Donors and supporters can sponsor the cycling efforts for Habitat for Humanity.

Pledges can be made for their ride payable to Habitat 500 and sent to San Luis Valley (SLV) Habitat for Humanity; P.O. Box 1197; Alamosa, CO. Funds can be designated to a local Habitat chapter with your check.

Along the way, the cyclists will visit Habitat affiliates, connect with communities, and take in the greatness of our country and its people. Using pedal power as an expression of "love in action," Dellett’s pedaling goal is to raise $75,000 for the work of Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for Humanity is a housing ministry building simple, decent affordable homes in partnership with those in need. Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to eliminate poverty housing worldwide. Habitat homes are constructed with volunteer labor, “sweat equity” by applicant family homeowners, and are purchased with no profit, 0% interest mortgages. Families make their mortgage payments based on 25% of their monthly income. All monies received from mortgage payments are recycled into the “Fund for Humanity” used to buy materials for the next Habitat homes. For more info about Dellett’s ride, log onto www.habitat2500.org. If you see Dellett and Wilkie pedaling en route, be sure to share your greetings.

Nancy Wilkie of Madison (above) will join Tim Dellett of Brooklyn, N.Y. on July 6. Both are taking pledges to help Habitat for Humanity. - Photos submitted

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

S T A T E

H E A D L I N E S

Obey: Supreme Court decision shows necessity of campaign finance reform WASHINGTON, D.C. – At a press conference with Congressmen Barney Frank, D-MA, and Tom Udall, D-NM, Congressman Dave Obey, D-WI, said this week that the Supreme Court’s decision on campaign finance clearly shows the need for a complete overhaul of the congressional campaign finance system and the elimination of all private money from general elections for the U.S. House of Representatives.

“With their decision this week, the Supreme Court has essentially destroyed our ability to have accountable campaigns and ensured that candidates will be the tail on the special interest dog,” Obey said. “It’s clear that the court has created a huge loophole that makes our campaign finance laws essentially meaningless and leaves

those with money to claim complete ownership of our nation’s political dialogue.”

“To restore the public’s faith in our system, we must have a fundamental response, not more tinkering around the edges,” Obey added. “That’s why we introduced the Let The People Decide Clean Campaign Act.” • The act does not attempt to finetune the existing congressional campaign finance system or tweak the edges, rather it makes fundamental, wholesale changes to the way funds are raised for candidates, regulate outside groups and the role of political parties.

• It contains a finding that America’s faith in the election system has been fundamentally corrupted by big money and cynical expenditures by outside

interest groups.

• It establishes a system of voluntary contributions to provide public financing of campaigns for House candidates in general elections.

“It provides the vast majority of challengers with more funds to mount their campaign than the current system.

• It empowers voters with the knowledge that their vote affects the outcome of the current election and also affects the amount distributed to nominees in future elections.

• It bans all independent expenditures so that only the candidate is responsible for his/her message.

• It provides for expedited consideration of a constitutional amendment allowing these changes if the Supreme Court rejects the plan.

• It provides a process by which third party candidates can also participate in the system.

Reps. Rosa DeLauro, D-CT, Bob Filner, D-CA, Steve Israel, D-NY, Jim McGovern, D-MA, Pete Stark, D-CA, and Henry Waxman, D-CA, joined with Obey, Frank and Udall as original cosponsors of the act. “Political campaigns aren’t going to be financed through immaculate conception,” Obey concluded. “If the public doesn’t want special interests to dominate political campaign contributions then the only logical alternative is for them to take politics back from the special interests by supporting this kind of voluntary public financing.

There is no free lunch.” – from the office of Congressman Obey

Potential oil tax fuels debate among large, smaller oil firms SUPERIOR - An amendment to the proposed state tax on oil companies would give small operators a break, while making “big oil” pay larger amounts.

While lobbyists for the American Petroleum Institute and Wisconsin Petroleum Council are making the rounds against this proposed tax on oil companies, smaller companies will get a break. State Sen. Bob Jauch of Poplar says his amendment will help smaller

gas companies. Murphy Oil’s Superior refinery is the only one in the state. He says Murphy Oil is not exempt from the tax. Jauch says his measure creates a graduated formula much like the income tax. He says this progressive formula allows the state to distinguish between small, medium and large oil companies. He says Murphy and many of the jobbers in the state clearly are in the category of small to medium compared to Exxon, British Petroleum and

the other large oil companies.

About 55 oil jobbers in the state will get the break. Superior Murphy Oil Refinery Manager Dave Podratz says he appreciates the gesture in the 2.5-percent tax on gross receipts to ease the economic impact on them and other smaller gas companies, but he says they still remain opposed to the tax. He notes that it’s a tax on receipts rather than profits, so ignores whether the firm is making money or losing money. Podratz says

there is also the constitutional issue of singling out one business and taxing it while not taxing other corporations.

The oil company tax is expected to raise extra money for state highway construction, but the tax would not allow oil companies to pass along the increase to the price of gasoline. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Mike Simonson)

Nursing home board delays big items Looks at capital needs and costs

by Gregg Westigard AMERY – Two main items on the Golden Age Manor governing board agenda for its June meeting were postponed last Thursday, June 27. A decision on whether to authorize the consultant Ecumen to implement suggested changes at the county-owned nursing home was postponed for a month.

And the performance evaluation and goals setting for GAM administrator Gary Taxdahl was put off until the full committee is present.

The meeting did include a call from County Board Chair Larry Jepsen for the governing board to work together, a call from committee member Eugene Sollman for fellow member Rodney Littlefield to resign or be removed, and the presentation of the GAM capital needs for the next five years.

The next step in the Ecumen review of GAM may have been postponed to allow more time for the consultant to work with GAM staff. It was mentioned that one of Ecumen’s main on-site consultants has left the company.

The status of committee member Wayne Tomfohrde has given as the reason to delay Taxdahl’s evaluation.

Tomfohrde’s two year term as a public, appointed member on the GAM board expired in April. Corporation Council Jeff Fuge told the committee that a member serves until a person is nominated and approved by the county board. Some members of the committee have suggested that one of the public seats be filled by a person with nursing home or nursing expertise. A new appointment or reappointment has not been made by the county board chair and Tomfohrde is still a member of the committee, but has been absent for several meetings.

“It was been a long year and a half trying to find a gray area,” Jepsen said.

“You have to try to find some area that will make the Golden Age Manor work.

We need a team approach to find a solution. This process has been virtually out of hand at times but it is not a train wreck. I say to the GAM board and staff, lets find a solution. We are running out of time. I ask you to bring it back together.”

During public comments, Arlen Burke said that the residents of GAM

are our greatest generation and the county needs to spend tax dollars to take care of their needs. It needs to protect those who can not protect them selves. Burke said he knows the county has a funding cap but asked that GAM be put in the budget. He concluded that the residents call GAM “home.”

Eugene Sollman then said that the comments being made about GAM by some county board members have hurt the GAM personnel and residents. Said some things should not be said. Sollman then said that fellow committee member Rodney Littlefield had made statements when he appeared before the Amery city council that were unethical and inflammatory. He said that Littlefield talked about closed session information.

Sollman then asked Littlefield to resign from the GAM board, and if he would not, for the county board chair to remove him.

Corporation Counsel Jeff Fuge then asked for a closed session, stating that Littlefield should have been apprised of the charge. He then noted that the prejudice had already been made and a closed session might not be needed.

Fuge advised Littlefield not to respond to the comments.

Taxdahl presented the board with a detailed list of capital projects over $5,000 in cost that need to be completed over the next five years. He told the committee that Medicare reimburses 70 percent of the capital expenses over a period and that the money for the improvements, if borrowed, would be outside the levy cap.

The list includes carpeting four areas at $20,000 to $30,000 for each area.

Taxdahl said that a carpet replacement program was started in 2004 but stopped after one area was done.

Another item is replacing the 50-yearold windows in the home. A 2005 bid put this cost at $90,000 plus labor.

Equipment needs include $10,000 for computers, $21,000 for two carpet cleaning machines, $20,000 for a bath system, $20,000 for roof repairs, up to $15,000 for concrete work on the patio, and an unknown cost to redo the front parking lot. The committee accepted the fiveyear plan without setting a schedule for the jobs.

“Do we want to spend the money now and get 70 percent back or wait and watch the costs go up,” committee member Art Gamache asked. “We need to set our priorities.”

Compromise, negotiation MADISON - Republicans say it will be another week before they pass their version of the state budget out of the State Assembly. GOP leaders have promised their plan will get rid of all new taxes, but the Assembly’s top Democrat says they’ll be hard-pressed to make that work.

It was hard for Assembly Minority Leader Jim Kreuser to have much of an effect on budget deliberations last session. This time around, the Assembly GOP’s 21-seat majority has been whittled down to just five. That means Speaker Mike Huebsch has to appease almost all of his Republican members in order to get what he wants, and several of those members have signed pledges that they won’t vote for any budget that raises taxes. Kreuser says it puts the Speaker in a tough spot. He says he feels bad for Speaker Huebsch, who he says has to deal with a number of people who are ideologically “locked in” and who Kreuser says don’t want to intellectually look at how to fund education, transportation, and take care of our most vulnerable.

Republicans plan to vote on their version of the budget next week Tuesday.

They plan to get rid of the billions in new taxes proposed by the governor and Senate Democrats.

But that’s only the next step in the process. Eventually, leaders from both sides will have to hammer out a compromise and put that deal up for a vote.

At that point, Assembly Republicans could need Kreuser’s help. He says they’re in the majority and need to lead, but he says he’s “more than happy” to assist in trying to get a budget that’s in the best interest of the most people for the long haul in this state.

Kreuser says it’s too early to say what role this budget will play in next year’s elections. He says a lot depends on how negotiations play out and whether Republicans make good on a threat to pass no budget at all.

Kreuser says having split control of the Legislature could actually diminish the budget’s political punch if both sides reach a compromise. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L e a d e r

F O R U M

We b Po l l

Our most recent poll question: Would you support abolishing the electoral college system?

1. Yes 95 votes (65 percent) 2. No 39 votes (27 percent) 3. I don’t even know what it is or what it does 12 votes (8 percent) This week’s poll question: What are your school-age children spending most of their time doing this summer?

1. Full- or part-time job 2. Playing video games/watching TV 3. Playing outside 4. Traveling or attending some kind of camp

You can take part in our weekly Web poll by logging on to www.the-leader.net and scrolling to the lower left-hand portion of the home page

J o e H e l l e r

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

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 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 Senator Sheila Harsdorf 10th Senate District State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 (608) 266-7745 • (715) 232-1390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold SDB 40, Rm. 1 Washington, D.C. 20510 or 8383 Greenway Blvd.

Middleton, WI 53562 (608) 828-1200 senator@feingold.senate.gov U.S. Senator Herb Kohl 330 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510

P o s i t i v e Quote o f t h e w e e k Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes and having fun.

-- Mary Lou Cook

WINGS We would like to extend gratitude to Fred Rose, his staff, and all the workers at the Luck Golf Course.

After a two-hour rain delay on Monday, June 18, the weather cleared and the course was very presentable and golf was enjoyed by 145 golfers at the first-annual WINGS golf outing.

WINGS is an organization to remember our son and brother, Mark and is compassion.

WINGS stands for Whatever Individual Needs Gear or Supplies. We hope to lift up area students, families and teams that might be struggling financially and give them an opportunity to reach for their dreams.

Along with the golfers we served an additional 77 with a steak supper. We would also like to recognize the 45 volunteers that helped work the event; you did an outstanding job and without you the event would not have run so smoothly. You are truly the best.

Also, we would like to recognize all of those who made a monetary donation: Hole sponsorship; Indianhead Chiropractic, St. Croix Falls Elementary staff; Unity wrestling boosters, St. Croix Falls wrestling boosters; Hauge Dental, Unity Class of 2006; Jim Brams Golf Lessons; Mike and Bill’s Fishing Service; Reiten Tree Service; Mark’s Grandma Cookie Hole; Larsen Auto Center; Viking Electric; Shaklee-Dixons and Shearer of Waupaca; S & C Bank; Larry Will; Dawn Longerberger Perkins; Spirit of Hope-Oshkosh Church; Balsam Lake Hardware Hank; Hack’s Pub; Unity Middle School coaches; Tunheim Drywall and Webster Athletic Association.

Silent auction and raffle items: Luck Golf, Linda Leidle, Darrell and Terry Anderson, Dawn Ferguson, Dawn

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r

Perkins, Doug and Laura Ramich, Tony Dungy, Brett Cole, Ryan Flaherty, Jerry Kins, Joey Peper, Bryce and Sue Thomson, Mark and Nancy Garlick, Greg Pronschinske, Andy Jepsen, Van Meter’s, Wayne S., Slumberland of Amery, Ann Fawver, Bobbi Miles, Faith Lutheran Church Women, Steve Stamm, Matt Wirth, Marcus Wilhelm, Paradise Landing, Fox Den and Top Spot.

Our extreme gratitude and we hope to see all of you at next year’s event.

Craig, Cathy and Kelli Miles Balsam Lake

Sell GAM

So you want the county board to cut taxes?

One way to do it is to reduce county spending, but county services are mandated by the state so they have to be provided. County enterprises are not.

Golden Age Manor, the county owned nursing home in Amery, is a county enterprise. It is a big user of county tax levy dollars but it doesn’t have to be.

There are several choices for change: the home can change its fiscal habits as recommended by Ecumen, a nursing home consultant; the county can sell GAM to the private nursing home industry; or the people of the area served by GAM can form a nonprofit organization and operate the nursing home themselves.

Closing the one would be ridiculous and has never been considered.

If any of the above were adopted, the county could save a quarter of a million dollars in tax levy each year and possibly more. Since the year 2000, Polk County has written off $2,312,701 to cover some of the nursing home’s debt.

It has not yet written off the debt for 2006. In the same time frame, the users of the home have been mainly from the

Amery area, as 508 patients have been from the Amery area and 60 patients from other municipalities in Polk County. Also there were 47 users of GAM from other counties throughout Wisconsin and even 23 patients from other states according to GAM records.

Most of the county board supervisors from the southeastern part of the county want to keep GAM operation as it is.

Why wouldn’t they? It serves their constituents. Yet all of the taxpayers in Polk County pay the cost. There are five other nursing homes in our county that, in general, serve people in their surrounding areas.

The future of the home is also critical.

The building is over 45 years old and we’ve been told needs new windows and carpet. In 2005, a new heating and air conditioning system cost $90,000.

You know the ways of buildings as they age. Next year, 2008, a balloon payment is due on GAM’s debt. A whopping $870,000 must be levied and paid by all Polk County taxpayers.

Most people in all of our area nursing homes are on medical assistance.

Realizing that, the federal government sends intergovernmental transfer funds to the states to offset some of the cost.

Wisconsin forwards a portion of that money to county owned nursing homes.

It does not send those funds to the other homes in Polk County. The amount of IGT funds received is based on the homes operating loss for the Manor was $851,457 in year 2005. IGT money received for that year was $708,743 per the auditors report. We’ve been told that IGT money for nursing homes is coming to an end. In the future those funds will focus on long-term care clients instead.

Another factor in GAM’s future is also important. Ecumen’s report says that in eight – 10 years nursing homes will no longer have a hospital-like setting.

Smaller groups of people in more homelike settings will replace nursing homes.

The county board passed a resolution this month directing GAM to change their fiscal habits so the loss for 2007 is no more than $125,000 an amount equal to the annual depreciation. Ecumen reported the staff has failed to cooperate with them previously even though the GAM board of directors adopted their recommendations. I simply ask, will they now?

I think we should offer to sell the home now while there is still a market for nursing homes. All of the nursing homes in our county give excellent care as they must meet care standards set by Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services who conducts unannounced inspections. Care of the elderly will not be compromised if the county no longer operates a nursing home.

Other counties are also selling their homes. Can’t Amery area people care for their elderly just as others in our county are doing?

Kenneth Olson Luck

Clarification

Recently your readers learned of an agreement reached between the Flambeau Mining Company and several other groups regarding the company’s reclaimed mine site. Unfortunately, some comments made by mining opponents about the agreement are false and very misleading, and they need to be addressed.

We are pleased that the agreement provides the Flambeau Mining Company with a Certificate of Completion for the 149-acre portion of the mine site that has been reclaimed to

See Letters, next page

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

a nature area. The agreement also reduces our reclamation bond by 80 percent, which is the maximum reduction allowed by law. In turn, we agreed to withdraw our COC petition for the industrial outlot portion of our site and to conduct short-term, additional monitoring at the site and in the Flambeau River to provide added assurances.

Some mining opponents claim the agreement acknowledges that there were significant environmental impacts at the site, and that is false. The site has, and continues to, protect the environment. There has never been a violation at the site and monitoring shows the environment and the Flambeau River are protected.

Our company participated in the agreement rather than proceeding with the contested case out of a spirit of cooperation and to help further better relationships with opposing groups. And, while all parties seem to be claiming victory regarding this agreement, we hope the facts will be used rather than misleading rhetoric when referring to it in the future.

Jana E. Murphy Environmental & Reclamation Manager Flambeau Mining Company Ladysmith

Fireworks

Last Dec. 23, I was sitting in my little house with all the windows and doors shut admiring my Christmas tree and listening to seasonal music. Kaboom!

Neighbors thought this would be a good time to have fireworks.

For me it was the last straw. I am proud of my seven ancestors who fought in the American Revolution. I feel very strongly that the use of fireworks at times other than July 4 diminishes their significance on that day. I let my neighbors know that for an hour after dark on the Fourth of July, they can detonate fireworks and I will not complain. If they do it at any other time, I will contact the authorities. I told them that if I wanted to be startled by unexpected explosions, I would move to Baghdad.

This may come as a surprise to some of you, it was to me, but according to Wisconsin Statutes 167.10(2) and 167.10(3), it is illegal to possess or use fireworks in Wisconsin without a valid permit. It is illegal to sell fireworks to a person without a valid permit and permits issued or sold by fireworks vendors are invalid. I live in Jackson Township, Jackson Township does not issue fireworks permits.

I have no problem with large groups of people, businesses and towns obtaining a permit, hiring a trained person to discharge these things, notifying the local police and fire departments and celebrating the Fourth of July with a community fireworks display.

It is the fireworks used by individuals whenever they feel like it, and that seems to be getting more prevalent year by year, that I object to.

I have spoken with deputies of the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department and with an officer of the DNR about this. They were all very helpful and sympathetic to my concerns. I asked them how it could be that if these things are illegal to use, they are not illegal to sell. Their answers were all the same.

The mark-up on fireworks is 1,000 percent and some people are making a

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

great deal of money off of them. I am just cynical enough to suspect that not only the vendors, but perhaps some bureaucrats in our Wisconsin state government are profiting from these sales as well.

The sheriff’s departments, local constables and the DNR are left with the impossible task of trying to enforce the fireworks laws we have. I would like to apologize in advance if my calls to them interfere with more important work. I am going to attempt to defend my right to peace in my home against the onslaught of those whose pyrotechnic zeal have no consideration of nature or neighbor and who have plenty of money to so conspicuously burn up.

Finally, there’s that burn thing.

Recently we all watched with dread as our neighbors to the north dealt with a forest fire. I kept saying, “That could be us.” We’ve had just enough rain so that the fire danger is no longer extreme, but we are living in a drought of some duration. The lakes are down and the woods are dry. Flora and fauna are stressed. I keep thinking of a sudden wind and a few sparks. I think about the heartbreaking fireworks death of the young man in Webster a few years ago. I think of all the young boys who are growing up in a culture of fireworks. However strict and careful their parents might be, I have no illusions about their capacity for innovative mischief and their fascination for things that go kaboom!

Happy Fourth of July. Pray for rain. I will be listening.

Annie Leimert Town of Johnson

State budget The state budget process is humming along. On Tuesday of last week, the state Senate voted along partisan lines to pass their version of the state budget.

I didn’t think it was possible, but they made the tax-and-spend increases in Gov. Doyle’s budget look tame by comparison. According to the non-partisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau, the Senate’s plan includes $9.5 billion (yes, billion) in new taxes over the last budget. To put it in perspective, that’s going to mean $1,729 in new taxes for every man, woman and child in the state, or just shy of $7,000 for a family of four. They propose a $15.2 billion per year payroll tax, a 10-percent, $90 million corporate tax hike, and keep the governor’s proposed $3 billion in tax increases on everything from gasoline to hospitals to iPod downloads.

As shocking as that number is, it doesn’t even paint a full picture. The Democrats used a budgeting trick to mask the real cost of their tax hike – their health care “plan” alone is going to cost $15.2 billion every year when fully implemented. If their plan started when the new budget goes into effect, the total impact of their budget would mean a whopping $33.39 billion in new taxes this two-year budget alone, with no end in sight.

Even with their budget trick, the Legislative Fiscal Bureau says that overall state spending would rise over the next two years by a whopping 23 percent. I don’t know about you, but I think people in Madison who believe that the government should be spending 23 percent more of the taxpayers’ money, are just out of touch with the rest of the state. But if the Democrats have

their way, if Madison gets to make the rules for the rest of us, Wisconsin will go to a government-run universal health care plan. And all it will cost is a jobcrushing $15.2 billion per year bill, delivered straight to Wisconsin’s businesses and workers.

But, every cloud has its silver lining, and here in Wisconsin, taxpayers still have a voice in at least one house of the Legislature. With the Senate’s passage last Tuesday, the budget now goes to the Assembly, and our work begins.

As I’ve promised time and time again, Assembly Republicans will pass a notax-increase budget. From what I’ve seen from the governor and from the Senate Democrats, we’re facing an uphill battle and we seem to be the only ones who remember who actually pays the bill for our government, but we are going to fight tooth and nail to hold the line on spending and keep taxes in line with peoples’ ability to pay them.

According to the Tax Foundation, a nonpartisan tax research group based in Washington D.C., (www.taxfoundation.org/blog) the tax increase passed by senate democrats is the single largest in the country. Wisconsin taxpayers are going to have a clear choice in this budget – the ones who spend, spend, spend and raise taxes whatever it takes, and the ones who make the tough decisions to hold the line on spending and keep taxes down.

Health care is a significant concern for my fellow Republicans and I. The rising cost of keeping our families healthy is taking a big bite, especially for our seniors and the disadvantaged in our state.

The Republican budget is going to include some significant changes, on top of the real reforms we have already been able to accomplish here in Wisconsin. It’s a problem we’re going to continue to work through, but if I have learned one thing from being here in Madison for more than 10 years, it’s that government does not have all the answers. No matter how much tax money you spend.

Mike Huebsch Assembly speaker Madison

Both are hilarious

What do the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce have in common with Stephen Colbert? Well, for one they share a disdain for the facts. WMC’s recent attack on the state Senate’s health care reform initiative, called Healthy Wisconsin, reflects this commonality.

Claiming, most disingenuously, that the plan will double state tax collections, the WMC fails spectacularly to acknowledge the inherent cost savings in the plan, estimated at $2 billion a year. The plan will provide most Wisconsinites with more comprehensive coverage at a lower cost. What, exactly, is wrong with that?

Apparently WMC is also unfamiliar with statements from Toyota officials who’ve been quoted recently citing the Canadian health care system as one of the reasons they decided to locate there rather than the United States. The cost savings of the system helps their bottom line. Yet the press release on WMC’s Web site claims that Healthy Wisconsin will make Wisconsin less competitive for business! What else does the WMC and Stephen Colbert have in common?

They’re both hilarious.

Steve Carlson Trego

Dairy breakfast This year marked the 24th-annual Community Agricultural Association Dairy Breakfast. This event is hosted at an active dairy farm each year. The 2007 host was the Grant and Mary Burdick Farm. God sent us a beautiful day, and the Burdicks gave hundreds of wild rice pancake eaters the use of their wonderful farm. The objectives of these on-thefarm gatherings are to: • Promote Wisconsin farm products.

• Expose people to an active family farm setting.

• Demonstrate the milking process (how store dairy products get started).

• Bring people into our area and show them our local enterprises, recreation and way of life.

• Provide post-high-school scholarships to cooperating students. Anyone that is interested in helping with this event is eligible to apply for a scholarship in December (to date over $56,000 has been awarded).

• Make possible a fun and educational day with great food: (wild rice pancakes with Wisconsin butter, ice cream, ham, cheeses, milk, Wisconsin cranberry juice and coffee (not grown in our wonderful state but enjoyed here).

• Provide petting zoo for young (and old) kids.

• Give prizes (door prizes, Wheel of Fortune, silent auction).

• Conduct educational farm tours.

This was all made possible with the cooperation of hundreds of volunteers and contributors. We especially extend gratitude to the most generous Burdick family for another very successful dairy breakfast, for all their hard work and very generous hospitality. On behalf of dozens of thankful students, we recognize all who have volunteered and contributed in any way and those nearly 1,500 of you who attended our breakfast this year!

May God bless you all!

Any family wishing to host the 2008 dairy breakfast, please contact Howard Kopecky at 715-349-2243, Jack Hedlund at 715-349-5152 or Grant Burdick at 715327-8867.

Community Agricultural Association Siren

Abolish it Yes, the electoral should be abolished.

It has long since outlived its reason.

Think about it. If the popular vote prevailed there are 3,000-plus young people that would still be alive. The world would probably be a little cooler. We would probably be a bit closer to solving the long-term energy problem. You can think of many more good reasons Social Security, deficit, health care, etc, etc.

Charles Hamilton Turtle Lake

F o l l o w t h e L e a d e r .

Fo l l o w t h e L e a d e r.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L e a d e r

F O R U M

No t e s f r o m I r a q CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq—First, God called him to the mission fields of Latin America. Then, the U.S. Army called him to the deserts of Iraq.

He faithfully answered both calls.

Sgt. Greg Widmer, of Oshkosh, is with the 1157th Transportation Company, serving both God and country on a forward operating base (FOB) six miles west of the center of Baghdad.

That olden capitol, now lined with 15foot-high cement T-barriers for security, is a metropolis far away where Widmer heeded God’s call.

“My vocational goal is to be a missionary in Latin America,” he said. “To do that, I’m studying at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago.”

It was a cold, January day in the Windy City when the word came that his unit was called up to head for warmer weather in Iraq.

“I was able to go right away to the leader of my floor and pray with him,” Widmer remembers. “This is just something that you don’t get at every other school. So there was that support, as I prepared to come over.”

In his preparation, he’s completed two years of study towards a degree in international ministries. He has two to go.

For now there’s Iraq; a place full of Bible history.

Iraq is where Abraham in the Old Testament heeded God’s call, as well.

Scholars say the “man of great faith” lived in the town of Ur, in Mesopotamia, about 200 miles south of Baghdad.

Father Abraham began his journey around 2,000 BC. From his loins came forth the three great monotheisms: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. His children of faith are often in conflict.

But for this Christian young man, 21, who carries a Bible in his pocket and an M-16 rifle across his back, there is no conflict of faith in what he is doing in the land of Abraham.

“I don’t believe they are in conflict at all,” Widmer said of faith and duty. “I believe both are a high calling. The Bible talks about obeying our governments and obeying those that are in authority over us.”

On this point, he is reminded of what one superior officer told him back home.

“My Lt. Colonel in charge of my basic training had us all formed up outside,” Widmer recalls. “And he said, welcome to the United States Army. There is no higher calling than to serve your country.”

At that moment, the colonel stopped and reconsidered.

“He said maybe one other higher calling is to be a man of God,” Widmer said.

S t a f f

“That was so cool to hear him say it. So I’m happy to serve God, and I’m happy to serve my country.”

Serving his country is no light matter. It Wayne is as deeply Anderson felt as his faith.

“It’s the realization that we are such a blessed nation,” he said. “We have so many privileges—and it’s not a guarantee.”

And sometimes, “we need to fight to maintain that. I feel a sense of responsibility and duty to my country.”

And here he serves, with the evening sounds of nearby 50 mm machine guns firing and late-at-night warnings blaring over the PA system: “Warning!

Warning! Incoming…Incoming.”

Sgt. Greg Widmer, of Oshkosh, at Camp Liberty, Iraq, is shown in front of Off in the distance the mortars painted cement T-barrier. They are used on all over the base and in a explode and light up the parameter. It’s for protection against bomb blasts, truck rammings, small-arms Baghdad just another night on duty. Faith can fires, etc.

– Photo by Wayne M. Anderson sustain a soul at these times.

His call to faith came as a teenager. liked them.”

In modesty, Widmer knows firsthand “That happened when I was in midAnd the Lord then moved in a myste- their wrath. dle school,” he said. “Every year at my rious way.

“There’s been a few small bullets here church we have World Christian Week, “So I started hanging around with and there,” he said. “But it’s nothing to and at the end of one of the services the them more and more,” Widmer said. speak of. The thing is our trucks are missionary that was speaking asked if “And I believe through that, God had extremely well armored. The governanyone in the audience felt a similar placed a specific burden on my heart to ment is providing us with top-of-thecalling to do what they had done: To go line technology as far as combating reach Latin America for Christ.” and spread the good news to the ends of But before that great commission, those roadside bombs.” the earth.”

He senses another type of provision is there is hauling supplies by truck to The call was undeniable. reinforce other FOBs in the war. helping him too.

“I really cannot deny how strong that “My job is driving trucks for Uncle “One of the verses that goes through calling was. So I went forward and I Sam, as we call it. We haul fuel through- my mind every time I leave the wire is, prayed with my pastor, and in middle out the Baghdad area, and that’s what Isaiah 41:10,” he sites. “That verse school I dedicated my life to the misthey’ve asked us to do,” he said. “By brings me much comfort knowing that sions.” military standards, I’m an operator. In God is with us here and back home.

So where does this fair-skinned And I guess another thing is: The safest familiar terms, I’m a truck driver.”

Wisconsin native see himself serving the His convoys go under the cover of place to be is in the center of God’s Lord? Why Latin America, of course. will.” darkness, a matter of security.

“I loved learning Spanish,” senor And the will of an administration that “We drive at night,” he said. “There’s Widmer said. “And to be able to study a curfew throughout Iraq, and a stricter brought us to Iraq?

Spanish better, I began hanging out with “I do personally agree with us being curfew in Baghdad itself, where the genpeople whose first language was eral public is not allowed outside at here,” he said. But, “there will come a Spanish.” night. So it’s safer for us to travel at time when it will be time for us to pull In Oshkosh? out. I’m not sure when that time will be. night.”

“People don’t know there is a What I hope is that congressmen and They haul just about anything.

Mexican community in Oshkosh” he “We might be in a convoy with people legislators communicate very thoroughinformed. “Well, they have different hauling all sorts of supplies,” he ly and technically what it’s really like jobs throughout the city. They don’t necexplains. “We’re a combat support bat- down here.” essarily live in one particular spot.”

And with that he will again lay his talion. So that’s what we do. We bring in He estimated the ethnic community the food, water, ammunition—and in shaved head down on his pillowcase of there is a few hundred and very wela smiling SpongeBob. And he will my case fuel.” coming.

Even though they travel with gun dream of going home in two months— “I started by just saying hey, I can help trucks for security, while the good peo- and pray for a lasting peace for Iraq. you learn English,” he said. “And you ple of Iraq are fast asleep, the insurgents can help me learn Spanish. And as I are out and about planning to attack. hung out with my amigos, I just really

C O R N E R

The Big Read It just so happens that I’ve started reading “My Antonia,” the novel chosen by The Big Read program that’s starting in the valley. My cousin, who passes along tips on good fiction, told me I have to read it. So I was just following orders.

Reading a portion of the book, set in Nebraska, has whetted my appetite for the sight of a vast prairie. This is amazing considering I’ve driven through Nebraska and tried with all my might to stay awake while in that flat state. Of course, the novel is set in a different time and place, giving us a view of a world that no longer exists.

In those days, it was common for

people to find themselves in the middle of nature without a manmade thing in site. This has been a rare occurrence in my lifetime, but the few times I’ve felt surrounded by the vastness of the ocean or the Rocky Mountains were memorable moments. Being surrounded by the tall grasses of the prairie was a new experience for a character in the novel who moves to Nebraska and meets immigrants from Romania.

That is the second reason I like the book: the immigrants don’t speak English, and are adapting to a new and different place. I can relate to this because I adopted two children from Russia who didn’t speak a word of

English three years ago.

While we were in Russia, they helped us deal with merchants and train attendants, since we could only speak but a few words of Russian.

On this side of the Julie ocean, they had an Holmquist entire language and culture to learn, just like the immigrants of old.

I find the reading statistics shocking: less than half the American adult population now reads literature. It’s interesting to note that 100 years ago, poetry and literature were much more

mainstream. Even newspapers published serialized fiction and poetry.

That ended long ago, of course, and now newspapers are struggling across the nation just to print the news. The amount of space devoted to news copy has become smaller and smaller, and I just read that columns by book critics are also being cut at large newspapers.

I remember reading newspaper stories about The Big Read pilot program in St. Paul, Minn., never dreaming it would come to our little corner of the woods. This, I told myself, is something that happens only in urban areas.

But as St. Croix Mayor Brad Foss said Friday at the grant award press conference, a recent St. Croix Falls survey showed “we have a real hip crew in St. Croix Falls.”

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

Funds will no longer involve abstinence programs STATEWIDE - For a decade, federal funds have helped provide Wisconsin communities with abstinence-based sex education. But as of the end of the fiscal year last Friday, the state isn’t asking for that money any more. Critics say the move is unfair to Wisconsin youth who seek out abstinence education.

In March, Governor Doyle turned down six hundred thousand dollars in federal grants saying new guidelines for the funding would force state groups to teach abstinenceonly sex education. Doyle supports comprehensive sex ed, where Wisconsin teens learn about safe sex practices as well as abstinence.

But Angela Turner, president of the Milwaukee-based Center for Self Sufficiency, worries the Governor’s decision will only affect abstinence education. The federal funds provided what is called Title 5 money, which, Turner says was being put to good use. She says the Title 5 money allows

school principals, parents and youth to receive an additional message which is sexual abstinence is the safest way to preserve a childhood in terms of avoiding the social, emotional, and health risks associated with sexual activity.

Turner’s group helps school districts and community centers provide abstinence-based sex ed. Since a fifth of her budget came from the federal grants, she now has to cut back on her programming. Turner says teens already get comprehensive sex education from public schools, but she says abstinence education will now be hard to find.

But Stephanie Marquis, a spokeswoman from the Department of Health and Family Services says abstinence is a key part of the state’s comprehensive sex education and promises Wisconsin youth will continue to get that message through the schools. - Wisconsin Public Radio

Amateur psychologists meet

Annual meeting of Burnett County Lakes and Rivers Association, July 14 BURNETT COUNTY - Ask an expert!

That’s advice anyone with questions about Burnett County’s lakes and rivers can follow easily on Saturday, July 14.

That day, at 9 a.m., the Burnett County Lakes and Rivers Association will hold its annual meeting at Forts Folle Avoine, 8500 CTH U. Following a brief business meeting, a group of local experts will respond to questions about our lakes and rivers and lake properties. The panel will consist of James Flanigan, Burnett County Zoning Administrator; Dave Ferris, County Supervisor for Lakes and Convservation; John Haack, DNR specialist on lakes and natural history issues; and Susan Wallin, local realtor and member of the Board of Wisconsin Lakes Association.

The mission of the BCLRA, the county’s umbrella organization for its 39 local lake associations, is to assist these groups in any way possible to continue the high quality of outdoor life in Burnett County.

Anyone with concerns about our lakes and rivers is welcome to attend the July 14 meeting. Every local lake association is urged to send representatives to state its concerns and to advise BCLRA on future activities. - submitted

Memorial planned for accident victims

The Amateur Psychologist Convention took place at the overlook deck in St. Croix Falls Saturday, June 30.

Shown is one of several musicians who performed during the annual event, which features music, a silent film festival and more, drawing crowds to the downtown St. Croix Falls area. - Photo submitted

Reminder A reminder is strategically placed on this pile of campfire wood for sale. - Photo by Irv Volkmann, Frederic

AMERY - Plans for a memorial for three Amery high school students who died in traffic accidents were announced at a recent board of education meeting, according to the Amery Free Press.

The Free Press reports that students at St. Croix Central middle school raised $1,500 toward a memorial for three Amery high school girls killed in traffic accidents this year.

The high school student council proposed three benches along with trees and perennials be placed east of the high school near the cafeteria.

Frederic high school students donated perennial flowers through the Amery Florist for the project. - with information from Amery Free Press

Services Thursday for Ruth Ehlers FREDERIC - Ruth Ehlers of Amery, formerly of Frederic, died Monday at Willow Ridge Nursing Home in Amery. She was 98 years old.

Funeral services will be hald at 11 a.m.

Thursday, July 5, from the Williamson Funeral Home in Amery. Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Siren with graveside services at 2:30 p.m.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the funeral home. Arrangements are being handled by the Williamson Funeral Home in Amery.

A full obit will appear in a future issue of the Leader.

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

Swedish Council of America presents grant to historical society BURNETT COUNTY–The Burnett County Historical Society is the 2007 recipient of a $2,000 grant fom the Swedish Council of America. After completing the restoration of the Karlsborg School, the society undertook the task of researching Swedish immigration into Burnett County, including the history of

the Karlsborg community where the school was originally located, and its relationship with its homeland in Sweden.

In an effort to make this history available to a wide audience, the Society submitted a request to the Swedish Council for funds to support construction of an

exhibit kiosk that will display a collection of pictures, information, and the fascinating story of Swedish immigration to Burnett County.

The kiosk will be located near the entrance ramp to the Karlsborg School, and will be blended into plans for landscaping the area The exhibit will be

designed to enhance the activities in the school house, and create a permanent record to further the knowledge of the Swedish heritage of Burnett County.

–submitted

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Fun

Danielle Brenholt sang “Black Velvet” in the finals on Saturday. She was sponsored by Hack’s Pub in Milltown.

The craft fair was bustling with people all day during Freedom Fest in Balsam Lake.

Danielle Brenholt was all smiles after she found out that she was the firstplace winner at the karaoke contest. Also pictured is second-place winner Jason Wright (L), and third-place winner Megan Hendricks.

Photos by Marty Seeger except where noted

Megan Hendricks sang “You Were Mine” by the Dixie Chicks on Saturday. Hendricks was sponsored by the Fox Den Resort in Balsam Lake.

Kids got to race go-carts down Main Street in the parade during Balsam Lake Freedom Fest.

- Photo by Raelynn Hunter

Jason Wright sang “Bust a Move” by Young MC on Saturday during the Karaoke Idol contest on Saturday.

Wright was sponsored by Paradise Landing in Balsam Lake.

When the track for the turtle races was wet down, it was an opportunity to splash around and cool off. Photo by Raelynn Hunter

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

S

S

I N T E R- C O U N T Y L E A D E R

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

Eagles get reigned on by New Richmond the Eagles in the top of the sixth with a grand slam. That put the Tigers up 16-3 as they secured the Lakeland crown.

Unity and Baldwin-Woodville will battle it out for third place, and both have an outside shot of taking second if Grantsburg were to lose to New Richmond again. With the season winding down, the remaining games will be key in determining seeding. That could also affect who will be reigning longest in the postseason.

Tigers route Eagles to capture Lakeland Conference crown New Richmond 16, Unity 3

by Matt Blumkin BALSAM LAKE – Unity and New Richmond had to endure spotty showers on Monday, July 2.

Yet, the Eagles were rained on by the Tigers’ hitting as they won 16-3 and captured the Lakeland Conference title.

“We didn’t take charge,” said Eagles coach Mike Morris. “Instead of guys looking to make a play, they were looking for somebody else to.”

The Tigers jumped out to an 8-0 lead in the second inning, and the Eagles could only whittle at the lead. Mike 1 2 3 4 5 6 Team New Richmond 3 5 2 0 1 5 Unity 0 1 0 0 2 0 Individual Statistics R H New Richmond AB Zimmerman 3 2 4 0 0 Kline 4 3 3 5 Berger 4 0 1 Johnson 2 2 4 Stoeklen 0 4 1 Torkelson 4 3 2 Peterson 1 1 4 Mulhollam 3 3 2 Haffner Totals 35 14 16 Unity Chad Strilzuk Ryan Flaherty Matt Goulet Aaron Schmidt Mike Schmidt Corey Tunheim Curtis Nelson Justin Bader Ricky Gabrow Matt Chitty Totals Unity Matt Goulet Ricky Gabrow Aaron Schmidt

H AB 2 0 0 1 1 3 2 0 1 2 0 2 3 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 19 4 Pitching Statistics W/L INN AB L 1.6 14 2.3 13 x x 2 x

R 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 K 1 2 x

Extra Points

Total 16 3 BB 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 5

RBI 0 0 8 0 3 1 0 0 0 12

BB 1 2 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 7

RBI 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

BB 1 3 1

H 6 3 5

R 8 3 5

Unity pitcher Ricky Gabrow came in relief of Matt Goulet after the New Richmond Tigers pounded the Eagles with eight runs in the first two innings.

The Eagles fell to the Lakeland Conference champs 16-3 on Tuesday, July 3.

– Photo by Matt Blumkin Schmidt hit a double in the bottom of runner despite two outs. Goulet would the second and scored to make it an 8-1 score following a wild pitch, and the contest.

Eagles trailed 11-3.

New Richmond strung together three “We really never get out of it,” said more runs to lead by 10 in the fifth Eagles first baseman Curtis Nelson inning. The Eagles wouldn’t quit as about the team’s resiliency.

Matt Goulet hit a triple to bring home a Tigers senior Blake Berger then buried

Unity’s Nelson bounces back Unity senior playing after tearing ACL in basketball season

by Matt Blumkin BALSAM LAKE – In December of 2006, Unity’s Curtis Nelson laid on a gym floor in pain with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Eight months later, he is tagging out runners at first base for the Unity baseball team. He has worked his way back to play for the Eagles after seeing his senior basketball season cut short along with track.

“It was hard right away not playing basketball,” said Nelson. “Now that I’m back, it’s a little better. It’s better than not playing.”

Nelson has been able to play most of the season for the Eagles while wearing a small metal brace to help his leg heal.

It is not noticeable with his uniform, but he does have a slight hobble when he runs.

“It slows you down just a tiny bit,” said Nelson.

Unity’s Curtis Nelson collecting the ball at first base earlier in the season.

Nelson tore his ACL during the basektball season, but he has returned to play baseball for the Eagles this summer. – Photo by Marty Seeger Yet, he guards first base, bats and runs He had surgery in February on his ACL, and he lifted light weights and bases as he did before, though he knows stretched to continue the healing. He he’s not 100 percent. Fellow senior Matt had help from a trainer for the first cou- Goulet moved from first base to third, so Nelson could play first. That position ple of months, too.

“It’s still a little sore once in a while,” requires the least running on defense, which helps Nelson protect his ACL. Nelson said.

••• YAKIMA, Wash. – One-time Unity Little Leaguer Mark Hallberg had a couple of solid showings for the single A Yakima Bears on June 29 and July 1.

He had a 2-4 hitting and one run scored against the Boise, Idaho, Hawks on July 1. Hallberg drove in two runs in the first contest against the Hawks on June 29. He hit 1-4 with one run scored in the game. – Matt Blumkin ••• SIREN – St. Croix Falls’ Jr. High under-14 baseball team took second at the 11th-Annual Jr. High Boys’ Baseball Invitational on June 22-24.

SCF finished 2-1 in Group 1 while Luck (2-1) took third in group two.

Grantsburg Purple finished fourth at 1-2 in Group 1. Luck and SCF also earned the same places in their respective groups for the baserunning contest, and each took third in the Around the Horn contest. Nick Johnson of SCF was named the best overall individual for Group 1. – Matt Blumkin with information from Mike Murphy ••• SIREN – At the 11th-Annual SixthGrade Boys’ Baseball Invitational on June 15-17, Luck (3-0) and St. Croix Falls (2-1) took first and second respectively. SCF won the baserunning contest for Group 1 with Jake Sommer and Brandon Loiselle.

Grantsburg took third in the Around the Horn contest with Joesph Gaffney, Damon Roberts, Lars Thoreson and Gus Johnson. – Matt Blumkin with information from Mike Murphy ••• SIREN – The 10th-annual Fast Pitch Invitational for junior high and 6th grade will take place July 6-7 at the Siren Ball Park. Teams from Webster, Grantsburg, Luck, Unity area and St. Croix Falls will participate. – Matt Blumkin with information from Mike Murphy ••• 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 2007-08 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail. We’ll take it from there. – Matt Blumkin and Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact us by noon on Tuesdays to go in extra points! – Matt Blumkin and Marty Seeger

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 a b l u m k i n @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t o r m s e e g e r @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Frederic watercross action

Jen Carlson of Luck signing autographs. Carlson finished fifth in the 800 Drags.

Arlen Peterson of Frederic, a retired watercross racer, worked as the public address announcer at the 2007 Frederic watercross races.

Photos by Matt Blumkin

Mike Dufour took third in the Semi Pro Open Oval.

FREDERIC WATERCROSS RESULTS STOCK 600 DRAGS: 1. Travis Nelson, 2. Ron Kirchner, 3. Shawn Cummings, 4. Casey Hatten, 5. Mark Enges, 6. Bobby Penders.

STOCK 800 DRAGS: 1. Jason Houle, 2. Travis Erzar, 3.

Gareth Cummings, 4. Brian Laybourn, 5. Jen Carlson, 6.

Troy Marsh.

MOD DRAGS: 1. Andy Busse, 2. Aaron Lundeen, 3.

Dennis Rhyner, 4. Matt Ledin, 5. Chris Gray, 6. Lance Brenizer.

SEMI PRO STOCK OVAL: 1. Ryan Jurek, 2. Oliver Baillargeon, 3. Chris Gray, 4. Brian Laybourn, 5. Shawn Cummings, 6. Casey Fensky, 7. Jen Carlson, 8. Travis Nelson, 9. Mitch Booth, 10. Bobby Penders, 11. Bill Buggert.

PRO STOCK OVAL: 1. Tadd Frederick, 2. T.J. Peterson, 3. Jon Dufour, 4. Alex Nelson, 5. Chad Maki, 6. Howie Steenberg, 7. Dan Hoffman, 8. Mike Dufour, 9. Matt Ledin, 10. Jessie Leider.

TRUE GRIT: Pro Ovals - Lance Brenizer, Semi Pro Ovals - Bill Buggert, Drags - Logan Erickson.

SEMI PRO OPEN OVAL: 1. Chad Maki, 2. Jeremy Carlson, 3. Mike Dufour, 4. Ryan Jurek, 5. Alex Nelson, 6. Brian McCurdy Sr., 7. D.J. Lindbeck, 8. Chris Gray, 9.

Jeff Tonnar, 10. Arthuer Coen, 11. Kevin Greeninger, 12.

Leo Dunlavy.

PRO OPEN OVAL: 1. Dale Lindbeck, 2. Kurt Mattila, 3.

Dennis Rhyner, 4. Jon Dufour, 5. Ken Kolitsch, 6. Howie Steenberg, 7. Andy Busse, 8. Tadd Frederick, 9. Matt Ledin, 10. Dan Hoffman, 11. Aaron Wallin, 12. Eric Peterson.

Grantsburg’s Alex Nelson keeping his sled above water as he makes a turn.

Racers taking off from shore.

High and dry. When a snowmobile sled goes under, the racer and crew have to dry out the inside of the sled before racing again.

Going into the water is an occasional hazard racers have to deal with. The other racers keep on going.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

L

E

A

D

Racers know what lap they’re on with the flags.

All in a day’s work. Alex Nelson of Grantsburg back on shore after a run. Nelson took fourth in the Pro Stock Oval fifth in the Semi Pro Open Oval.

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Chris Gray (No. 202) looking for position among his fellow drivers at Dale Lindbeck of Stacy, Minn., the start of the heat. Gray took third in the semi Pro Stock Oval and won the Pro Open Ovals. – Photo fifth in the Mod Drags. courtesy of Karen Carlson

Racers have to go beyond just racing their sleds.

They have to spend time tweaking their sleds for the races too.

Photos by Matt Blumkin

It happens to the best of them. D.J. Lindbeck didn’t make it through his heat on this occasion, so his sled had to be transported back to shore by pontoon. However, he did take seventh in the Semi Pro Oval Open.

Family feud. Mike Dufour (No. 121) and Jon Dufour (No. 171) racing in prelims on Saturday, June 30.

Phil Knuf (in driver’s seat), president of the Frederic Village Board, goes for a spin on a watercross sled. – Photo submitted

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Siren stopped by Baldwin-Woodville while walking 16 batters. David Harlander was the only member of the Vikings with the hit in the game.

Ugly first inning leads to 10 runs for Blackhawks Baldwin-Woodville 24, Siren 2

by Marty Seeger SIREN — Siren struggled to keep the Blackhawks off the bases in the first inning on Monday night’s conference matchup, and they didn’t reach base on hits alone.

The Dragons used up three pitchers in the first inning alone, and when it was all over the team gave up 10 runs on only two hits. Jesse Hinze started the inning off and John Anderson replaced him after only one-third of an inning.

Tom Chosa came in for Anderson a short time later to try and give the team an edge on the tough BaldwinWoodville team, who defeated Grantsburg last Thursday night.

Siren managed a good inning in their first at bat of the night after Blake Hall

Freshman Ethan Cook on the mound for Frederic in an earlier game this season.

Siren’s Adam Daniels waits for the umpire’s call after a Baldwin-Woodville runner appeared to have missed home plate on Monday night. The runner was safe, and the Blackhawks won handily. - Photos by Marty Seeger Siren couldn’t catch another break for drew a walk. Jordan Potvin followed the walk with a single and Bobby Smith the rest of the game as the Blackhawk’s drew another walk to quickly load the continued to pile on runs and take the bases for the Dragons. With one out easy win. The Dragons next conference Adam Daniels sent an RBI single to cen- matchup will be Monday, July 9, at terfield and the picked up their first run Webster. of the game. The inning quickly came to a close however, after John Anderson Game 1 hit a line drive to the Blackhawk third New Richmond 31, Frederic 0 baseman. The error scored Potvin, but NEW RICHMOND — The Vikings as Bobby Smith rounded third to score, had a tough go in their first game the Baldwin left fielder made a timely against the New Richmond Tigers last throw to home, catching Smith easily at Thursday evening. Their previous home and ending the inning. meeting was cancelled due to lightning.

Frederic gave up 31 runs on 19 hits Game 1 New Richmond 31, Frederic 0 Individual Statistics AB H R BB RBI Frederic 2 0 0 0 0 Andrew Kurkowski Kanan Hackett 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Jake Schmidt 1 0 0 0 0 Ben R. Anderson Nolan Neumann 1 0 0 0 0 Dave Harlander 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 Ben G. Anderson 2 0 0 0 0 Claire Erickson Bryan Meyer 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 Ethan Cook 16 1 0 1 0 Totals Pitching Statistics W/L INN AB K BB H R Frederic Brent Crandell L 0.2 7 0 4 4 9 1 1 3 2 0.1 4 Nolan Neumann x 2 3 1 3 1.0 x Ethan Cook x Bran Meyer x 0.0 2 0 4 1 5 x 10 13 3.0 15 1 Claire Erickson x

Game 2 Team 1 2 3 4 5 Total 1 Frederic 0 0 0 1 0 New Richmond 3 1 2 5 x 11 Individual Statistics R BB RBI H Frederic AB Andrew Kurkowski 2 0 0 0 0 Kanan Hackett 2 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 Jake Schmidt 2 Anderson 1 0 0 0 0 Nolan Neumann 3 0 0 0 0 Dave Harlander 1 1 0 0 0 Claire Erickson 2 0 0 0 0 Bryan Meyer 2 0 0 0 0 Ethan Cook 2 0 0 0 0 Totals 18 2 1 0 0 Pitching Statistics Frederic W/L INN AB K BB H R Ethan Cook L 2.0 11 1 1 4 4 Nolan Neumann x 2.1 13 0 5 4 7

Game 2 New Richmond 11, Frederic 1 NEW RICHMOND — Frederic played much better in their second game of the night in New Richmond according to coach Ben Nelson.

“Jake Schmidt had our only two hits, (single and triple) but our pitchers Nolan Neumann and Ethan Cook did a much better job, and defensively we made some nice plays,” said Nelson.

The Vikings were scheduled to play at home in a conference game against Webster on Tuesday night, but the game was cancelled due to rain.

The Vikings are rescheduled to play Webster this Friday, July 6, in Frederic to make up Monday night’s cancellation. The St. Croix Falls Legion game that was originally scheduled for Friday night will be cancelled altogether, and will not be rescheduled.

Team Siren Baldwin

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Total 2 0 0 0 0 x x 2 10 5 3 3 3 x x 24 Individual Statistics Siren AB H R BB RBI Blake Hall 3 1 1 0 0 Jordan Potvin 3 1 1 0 0 Bobby Smith 1 1 0 1 0 Derek D‘Jock 2 0 0 0 0 Adam Daniels 2 1 0 0 1 Christian Hall 2 0 0 0 0 John Anderson 2 1 0 0 0 Vince Nasman 2 0 0 0 0 Thad Baasch 2 1 0 0 0 Totals 19 6 2 1 1 Baldwin AB H R BB RBI Ninneman 4 2 4 2 2 Gevrkink 3 1 3 2 1 McGee 1 1 3 2 1 Hadley 3 1 0 0 1 Dittman 3 1 2 0 0 Ring 3 2 0 1 0 Helland 1 2 1 1 0 Higgsdoff 2 1 1 0 0 Trickle 4 0 1 1 0 Demotts 2 0 3 0 1 Lunzer 1 1 1 0 0 Simons 3 1 3 0 0 Rose 3 0 2 2 0 Totals 33 13 24 11 6 Pitching Statistics Siren W/L INN AB K BB H R Jesse Hinze L 1.3 x 0 3 1 7 John Anderson x 1.3 x 0 3 0 3 Tom Chosa x 2.3 x 0 1 10 8 x 1 x 1 2 1 3 Christian Hall Derek D’Jock x 1.3 x 0 3 1 3 New Richmond W/L INN AB K BB H R Demotts W 5 19 7 2 4 2

Eagles edge Siren in seven Unity gets by with big hits in the third and fourth inning Unity 12, Siren 5

by Marty Seeger BALSAM LAKE — The Dragons came out gunning in the first inning last Thursday night against the Eagles.

Blake Hall led the inning off with a single and Adam Daniels grounded out to first and to move Hall into scoring position.

Jordan Potvin picked up an RBI single to give the Dragons an early 1-0 lead, which was expanded to two runs after a single from Bobby Smith and Derek D’Jock. John Anderson would bring home the second run of the inning on a ground out to first.

“We played up tonight which was a nice change of pace,” said Siren coach Chad Gibson.

The Dragons kept the Eagles scoreless for the first two innings, with pitcher Smith striking out three batters. Siren stretched a 2-0 lead to three in the top of the third after Potvin reached first on a walk and was moved along the bases

Eagle outfielder Eric Goulet just missed a hard-hit ball in left field last Thursday night against Siren. Photo by Marty Seeger

further with another single from Smith, who totaled four hits on the night.

Potvin eventually make it home on a passed ball from Eagles pitcher Ryan Flaherty.

With a 3-0 lead heading into the bottom of the third the Eagles quickly bounced back into the lead. Justin Bader led the inning off with a single and Ricky Garbow smashed a double. Chad Strilzuk got the Eagles first run of the game with a hit to third but was thrown out at first. Matt Goulet singled for an RBI and Mike Schmidt drove in two runs with a triple. The Eagles continued to hit well in the fourth inning while coach Gibson made a pitching change from Smith to Daniels.

The change didn’t sway Unity as they piled on six more runs on three hits and three walks, including a three-RBI double from Aaron Schmidt.

“We have nothing to hang our heads about tonight,” said Gibson. “Our pitchers threw strikes, and Bobby, he’s had arm problems all year. He’s able to give us usually three strong innings before it sets in, so we’ll take what we can get from him and hope that we can piece together the rest of it.”

Siren managed to get a couple more runs in the seventh inning off a few Eagle errors and an RBI double from

Smith toward the right-center gap.

“We’re going to be OK, we really are, said Gibson. “We took a step forward tonight regardless of the score. We stayed with one of the top teams in the conference.”

Total 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 5 12 0 0 4 6 1 1 0 Individual Statistics Siren AB H R BB RBI 4 1 2 0 0 Blake Hall Adam Daniels 4 0 0 0 0 Jordan Potvin 3 1 3 0 1 4 4 0 1 1 Bobby Smith 3 1 0 0 0 Derek D’Jock John Anderson 4 0 0 0 0 Christian Hall 3 0 0 1 0 Marcus Backman 3 0 0 1 0 Thad Baasch 3 1 0 0 0 Totals 31 8 5 3 2 Unity AB H R BB RBI 4 1 1 0 1 Chad Strilzuk Ryan Flaherty 3 1 2 1 1 Matt Goulet 3 2 2 0 3 4 1 2 0 3 Aaron Schmidt Mike Schmidt 3 1 0 0 2 Cory Tunheim 3 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 Curtis Nelson Eric Goulet 1 0 1 0 0 Justin Bader 1 1 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 Matt Chitty Ricky Garbow 3 1 1 0 0 Florer 1 0 0 0 0 33 13 12 4 6 Totals Pitching Statistics Siren W/L INN AB K BB H R Bobby Smith L 3.3 0 3 2 6 7 Marcus Backman x 0 0 0 2 0 2 Adam Daniels x 2.4 0 0 2 4 3 Unity W/L INN AB K BB H R Ryan Flaherty W 5 23 5 1 7 3 Aaron Schmidt x 2 10 2 1 1 2 Team Siren Unity

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Steelers caught the Ravens never more Siren kept close with St. Croix until big eighth inning St. Croix Ravens 13, Siren 1 Brill 25, Siren 0

by Matt Blumkin SIREN – The Siren Steelers had something to cheer about during their contest with first-place St. Croix on June 30.

They trailed the Ravens 4-1 through seven innings, and things were looking promising for a competitive game.

Steelers pitcher Ryan Schmidt and company put out the Ravens quickly in four of the first seven innings, and the Steelers had been getting base runners on.

They even threatened to cut the lead to two when Josh Engstrand came short of beating the tag at home plate. The lone Steelers run came from Joe Hoffman after he singled in the second inning, which had cut the lead to 2-1.

In the eighth inning, things bottomed out for the Steelers. The Ravens loaded the bases and even scored on walks as they rolled up nine more runs. Steelers manager Bill Schmidt made a pitching change in the middle of the inning, and the Steelers stopped the bleeding.

They fell 13-1 to the Ravens before taking a larger 25-0 loss to Brill on July 1.

Grantsburg 3, Hayward 2 GRANTSBURG – The Honkers found themselves on the winning side of a one-run margin for a change.

After losing four one-run games this season, the Grantsburg Honkers (4-6, 34) edged the Hayward Hawks 3-2 on July 1.

Brian Vilstrup pitched the Honkers to victory with 12 strikeouts while allowing one earned run on two hits. He also had run support as Ted Gerber, Lloyd Winchell and Ben Peterson all drove in runs.

After a slow start to the season, things do look promising for the Honkers as

they embark on the season’s second half.

“We basically played the top half of the league,” said Gerber about their first half schedule.

They’ll be playing most of the league’s weaker teams, which gives them a chance to go .500 in the league and qualify for the state tournament.

In addition, their one-run losses came to the St. Croix Ravens (14-5, 7-0 overall), Isanti, Minn., Redbirds (15-4) and the Superior Lakers (8-8). The Lakers were a state qualifier in 2006.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 9 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Individual Statistics Siren AB H Josh Engstrand 4 1 Ryan Schmidt 3 0 Adam Memmer 3 0 Nate Lund 3 0 Joe Hoffman 4 1 Josh Johnson 2 1 Kevin Schmidt 2 0 Jeremy Littlepipe 2 0 Totals 23 3 Team SC Ravens Siren

Josh Engstrand’s slide into home came up shy for the Steelers. Siren had trailed St. Croix 4-1 through seven innings before falling 13-1. – Photo by Matt Blumkin

9 0 0

Total 13 1

R 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1

BB 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 5

RBI 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

River Bandits steal conference road win St. Croix downs Braham Stars for second league win of the season St. Croix 4, Braham, Minn., 1

by Matt Blumkin BRAHAM, MINN. – Scott Lindholm and Trevor Todd may not have named the St. Croix River Bandits for going across the St. Croix River and stealing road wins.

Yet, the Bandits did just that to Braham, Minn., as they pulled off a road conference win. They beat the Stars in a 4-1 pitching duel.

“We looked at it as a game we needed

to win,” said Bandits coach Scott Linholm.

The Bandits had been struggling, having dropped a double header to Pine City, Minn., the week before. They didn’t have all of their top players in those games, unlike their contest with Braham.

Bandits pitcher Jim Rochford duked it out against Braham pitcher Blake Karas.

Rochford threw all nine innings with one earned run on seven hits and five strikeouts. Karas had 11 strikeouts in nine innings with four runs on eight hits. That aided both team’s defenses.

“When your pitcher throws strikes, it’s fun for the defense,” said Lindholm.

It also made the game go quickly in one hour and 27 minutes. The Stars had a base hit in the first inning, but no one reached base from either team again until the fifth.

The Stars made the most of having a base runner in the fifth by scoring to go up 1-0. St. Croix’s Jordan Martell knotted the game with a RBI triple on the first pitch of his at-bat in the sixth. His triple brought home Curtis Roebuck, who had singled with two outs.

Trevor Todd then came up big in the eighth inning with a two-run double, which also came on two outs. The Bandits had found themselves in a twoout hole when the Stars turned a 1-2-3 double play after the Bandits had loaded the bases. They scored three runs during the inning to go up 4-1, a lead they wouldn’t surrender.

“It was a very crisp, well-played baseball game,” said Lindholm. “We’re gaining some confidence.”

Team SC Bandits Braham

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Individual Statistics H St. Croix River Bandits AB Jordan Martell 4 1 Trevor Todd 4 1 0 Jesse Hartel 4 3 0 Brandon Pederson 4 1 Scott Lindholm 4 1 Kyle Kahl 4 1 Nick Hartman 4 2 Curtis Roebuck 35 8 Totals

9 0 0 R 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 4

BB 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

RBI 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 4

Braham, Minn.

Blake Karas Jason Marsh Matt Plageman Jack Karas Josh Coleman Billy Shay David Shockman Matt Kallsen John Bosman Totals

R 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1

BB 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

RBI 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

St. Croix Jim Rochford Braham, Minn.

Blake Karas

AB H 0 4 4 1 4 1 4 1 4 0 4 1 1 3 4 1 3 1 34 7 Pitching Statistics W/L INN AB W 9.0 34 W/L INN AB L 9.0 35

K 5 K 11

Total 4 1

BB 1 BB 0

H 7 H 8

R 1 R 4

Pirates split in Baldwin, record descends bunt and threw out the Hawks runner scurrying for home.

They bled a little more in the fifth with the Hawks getting another run on a RBI single to go up 2-1. Then, things went south for the Pirates as they gave up five more runs in the sixth inning. Three of those runs came on a double.

The loss dropped them to 8-3 in the conference standings, and it gives Unity (11-6, 7-4) and Baldwin-Woodville (11-7, 7-4) an outside shot at second in the conference.

Grantsburg falters late against Hawks Grantsburg 3, Baldwin-Woodville 1 Baldwin-Woodville 7, Grantsburg 1

by Matt Blumkin BALDWIN – The Grantsburg Pirates could have packed their win-loss record in a skydiver’s parachute bag in Baldwin.

Their record took a dive during the last week of June with a loss at home to Unity and a loss at Baldwin-Woodville.

The Pirates (14-4, 8-3) once had a chance to take first place before a loss to New Richmond, but now, they’ll needing to hang on to second place in the conference.

Things did go the Pirates’ way in their makeup game against BaldwinWoodville on June 28. They started off with the bases loaded in the fifth inning from their postponed June 12 game. Ben Larson proceeded to lead off the makeup contest with a RBI double, and he put the Pirates up 3-1.

Then Brandon “Bucky” Kaiser cooled off the Blackhawks’ bats with two strikeouts in the top of the sixth, and the Pirates held on. Their only struggle came at first base where two of their base runners got picked off trying to

Zach Phillips takes a swing at the game in Baldwin last Thursday evening.

INSET: A skydiver drops from the sky. A landing zone is located just a short distance from the baseball diamond. – Photos by Matt Blumkin steal second during the bottom of the sixth.

That became a bigger problem in their second contest of the day. The Pirates left 12 runners on base through the first five innings as they could not steal a base against the Blackhawks.

Kaiser scored the only Pirates run of the game on an error, which gave the

purple and black a 1-0 lead. They held that lead through three as Kaiser looked tough on the mound. He gave up just two hits in that span of play.

Yet, the Blackhawks began to break through Kaiser’s pitching and the Pirates fielding to score a run in the fourth. Kaiser stopped the bleeding, however, when he caught a ball off a

Trent Bonneville

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L

E

A

D

E

R

S

P

O

R

T

S

Celebrating 50 years of ladies golf Ladies Auxiliary and league come together to share 50 years of golf

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC — The Ladies Auxiliary and golf league met at the Frederic Golf Course last Thursday, June 28, to share in 50 years of good times and great golf.

The evening began with a round of nine holes of golf and a dinner that featured Chicken a la King—a favorite meal for members of the course when it began 50 years ago.

Ladies of the past and present were on hand in the hopes of honoring the course’s 50th birthday, and to share the importance the ladies had on getting the course started.

“The women were a big force in trying to get our golf course off the ground,” said Sylvia Hansen, who’s been golfing the league since it began 50 years ago and is still a member today.

Hansen said that none of the earliest members knew how to golf, but eventually learned how from Tom Funne, who was the groundskeeper at the time.

Hansen reminisced about the early days when the men would hold large dinners at the club. The women would cook all of the meals and the men would serve it. At the time, the clubhouse was an older country home where club members would hold parties to raise money. There was even a bar in the basement where Halloween, New Year’s and other parties were held to raise money for the club.

Other efforts to raise money for the club included many hours of volunteer labor and setting up various fundraisers by the ladies of the club.

But above all the work and time that was involved in getting the Frederic

Past and present members of the Ladies Auxiliary met at the Frederic Golf Course Thursday, June 28, to celebrate 50 years of golf memories. Pictured (L to R): Marlys Spencer, Kay Thorsbakken, Cora Dversdahl, Kim Harvey, Susie Smith, Nancy Morten, Jeanne Young, Joan Funne, Winell Hanson, Cheryl Parkins, Susie Gugino, Hope Healy and June Fossum. - Photos by Marty Seeger

Other past and present members of the Ladies Auxiliary are (L to R): Shirley Johnson, Jane Wilcox, Norma Nelson, Mary Ann Johnson, Steph Anderson, Vonnie Anderson, Jess Swanson, Eunice Early, Tammy Brenizer, Rhoda Jensen, Pat Anderson, Ginny Clausen, Kathy Simonson and Sylvia Hansen.

Golf Course started, it was the many social gatherings and parties that the women shared. When asked what their fondest memories were, it was always the golf outings and parties that they remembered the most.

“Oh my goodness, we had the most wonderful times and the most fabulous parties,” said Wannel Hansen, who paged through a fragile scrapbook filled with pictures and stories of the course and the people that were involved.

Hansen is another member of the club that has been a member since the beginning and still golfs today.

Another popular thing for the ladies during those days were guest days, which involved going out to different courses in the area for the day.

“Sometimes we’d go to guest days twice a week,” said Sylvia Hansen, who mentioned that for around $7 you could get nine holes of golf with a large breakfast and lunch to boot.

“I love golfing and if I could, I’d play three or four times a week, and we did when we started.”

Another golfer that still enjoys playing is Joan Funne, the wife of the course’s first groundskeeper. Hansen said that she and Funne went to through a list of some of the past members of the course, and were saddened by the many friends that have died over the years.

“I think the people that started all this, bless their hearts; they’re gone, but I want to carry on their memories,” Hansen said.

And that was a one of the biggest reasons to get together last Thursday—to honor those that made the course fun, celebrate 50 years and share in the many fond memories of the golf course.

“There are so many other things, but we had fun, and I think that was the goal of this golf course, that everybody did have fun, we did a lot of fun things,” Hansen said.

Lucky golfers at the Fredeic Golf Course Beaupre was shooting with his five iron on hole number nine, which is 147 yards.

On June 9, Heath Olson of Evergreen, Colo., was using his number eight club on hole 15. The shot was made from 128 yards.

Then on June 16, David Montgomery of Webster used a Resque 4 to shoot a hole-in-one from 174 yards on hole six.

Three golfers land holes-in-one on three different holes

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC — The Frederic Golf Course has had three different players sink a hole-in-one this season. The first one of the season came from St. Croix Falls resident, Karl Beaupre on May 21.

Pictured (L to R): Karl Beaupre of St. Croix Falls, David Montgomery of Webster and Heath Olson of Evergreen Colo. - Photos submitted

First-annual Frederic Cop-Out Golf Tournament FREDERIC – The first-annual Frederic Cop-Out Golf Tournament was a great success, with 28 teams for a total of 109 golfers. All the money raised from this tournament will go to the Frederic Junior High football program. The seventh- and eighth-grade football program is not funded by tax dollars, and is kept alive by the fund drives that the students participating in the program take part in every year. This is the seventh season for the junior high football team, and this program would not be possible without the help of volunteer coaches, Todd Miller, Brady Robertson and Jason Richter.

Heroes ’06 were the winners of the first tournament. The team was made up of 2006 graduates, Cullen Wondra, Travis Pyke, Randy Carlson and Troy

Mengal, who represent members of the first team to play in the newly formed junior high football program in the year 2000.

Gratitude is extended to all the businesses that donated great prizes for the benefit, and to those businesses that chose to be hole sponsors, and offer special prizes to the golfers who hit a holein-one on the sponsored hole. Larsen Auto sponsored the 18th hole for a chance to win a 2007 Dodge Charger.

Unfortunately, no one made a hole-inone on the 18th green. But Karl Beaupre, of the team Well Over Par, made a holein-one on the 9th hole and received a Bose Wave home music system.

The process of planning the next year’s tournament has begun, and the Frederic Police Department will be

looking for sponsors. Please call 715327-8851. Gratitude is extended to Frederic Police Chief R. J. Severude, without his help this tournament would not have been possible. Also recognition to the Frederic Golf Course staff, for a job well done.

Gratitude is extended to coach Larry Bergeron.

Sponsors included Larsen Auto Center, Bernick Cos., Great Northern Outdoors, Anderson Construction, Bean’s Country Griddle, Skol Bar, Bremer Bank - Frederic, Avalon Hair Salon, Pound and Pour Construction, Chell Trucking, State Farm Insurance Corey Arnold, U.S. Bank - Frederic, Shooter’s Bar, Pioneer Bar, Wikstrom Construction, Frederic Fuel, Tin Cup Promotions, Rose Garden, Rural

American Bank - Luck, Frederic Fire Department, Drs. Harlander and Tesch DDS, Jenell’s Main Dish, Subway Frederic and Siren, Indian Creek Tavern, Countryside Restaurant, Acorn Bakery, Grindell Law Office SC, Frederic Grocery and Highway 8 Chain Saw Carvings.

Tournament winners: Heroes ‘06 (Cullen Wondra, Travis Pyke, Randy Carlson and Troy Mengal) in first place; Full House (Brad Warner, Dave Johnson, Jason Loney and Pete Carlson) in second place; Frederic Golf (Thomm Smith, Mary Thompson, Tommy Thompson and John Sorensen) in third place.

Hole-in-one winner: Karl Beaupre (Bose home stereo sound system). – submitted

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

L

E

A

D

E

S

R

P

O

R

T

S

“57 Special” at Kopellah ST. CROIX FALLS – Perfect weather greeted racers and fans alike on Fireworks Forever and Olson Power and Equipment night at Kopellah Speedway. A total of 78 cars checked in to do battle in six divisions for the track’s midseason championships.

The speedway kicked off Independence Week with fireworks on the track and in the sky as the night’s title sponsor put on a breathtaking pyrotechnic display to wrap up the evening’s action.

WISSOTA AMSOIL Dirt Track Series racing got off to a flying start with the Midwest Modifieds, as heat race winners John Remington and Dan Wheeler led the 14-car field to the green flag. Wheeler got the early jump on the field in his alwaysfast RED1 hot rod. Behind Wheeler, Remington was locked in a tight battle for second with Jason Gross. On lap four, disaster struck for the leader. Dan Wheeler’s power plant let go in a giant puff of ugly blue smoke just past the flag stand. That meant the Remington/Gross battle for runner-up now was the battle for the win.

While Gross has been an infrequent visitor to the speedway this summer, he collected six feature wins at Kopellah in 2006 and is no stranger to Victory Lane. To stay out front required a perfect race from Remington, and the Scandia, Minn., pilot did just that while stretching his track points lead with a clean-sweep victory.

“The Rev” Mike Haseltine finished third behind Gross, with Bryan Siercks and Frank Soucek completing the top five.

Next up was the WISSOTA Street Stocks, with just four points separating the frontrow starters of Chanda Fjorden Nord and Jeff Heintz. Heintz grabbed the early lead ahead of Fjorden Nord and the red-hot Jason Vande Kamp. With two laps complete, Vande Kamp wrestled the runner-up spot away from Fjorden Nord. The top three stayed close through the halfway point, always with Heintz leading, and with No. 5 and No. 16 cars constantly swapping positions for second and third.

Unfortunately, for the second race in a row, the lead was not the place to be. Contact between Heintz and Vande Kamp resulted in a cut left rear Hoosier for the leader. As Heintz slowed, Vande Kamp drove low to make the pass for the lead. Fjorden Nord drove even lower, and the trio went threewide in the middle of the backstretch.

Fjorden Nord drove faster and deeper into turn three to complete the two-for-one pass and assume the lead. For the final half of the race, Fjorden Nord fought off a multitude of high and low charges from Vande Kamp. Although the duo was side by side on several occasions, Vande Kamp could never complete the winning pass and settled for second at the checkers. The Fjorden Nord victory stopped Vande Kamp’s con-

secutive win streak at three, and increased her points lead over Heintz, who was scored outside the top 10. On only his second visit to the track this summer, Jim Miller quietly drove to an impressive thirdplace finish. After starting last in the 12-car field, Trisha Nyren ran very well to finish fourth, her best finish of the summer. Andy Spofford was the other back-row starter with Nyren and finished just behind Nyren in fifth.

In WISSOTA Super Stock competition, the night of perfection continued for John Remington. Once again, Remington started on the front row, this time alongside runaway track points leader Dan Gullikson.

Remington shot to the point at the drop of the green flag. Right on the rear bumper of Remington, Gullikson and Cory Davis were poised to take advantage of any miscue by the No. 57. Remington was running near the cushion, while Gullikson and Davis took turns trying to find a lower groove that would take them to the front. Then, during consecutive early-race cautions, track officials moved the infield implement tires lower on the track. The move was a successful attempt to widen the racing groove, but it appeared to favor the lowerrunning challengers. Would disaster strike for the leader of a third consecutive race?

Not on John Remington’s night of perfection. While the track change seemed to accomplish the impossible in making the close racing even closer, Remington smoothly and calmly lead the way from green to checkers, completing his second clean sweep of the evening. Gullikson edged Davis for second ahead of last week’s winner Tony Gates and Dan Preston. Later, when asked if he had ever claimed two trophies in a single evening, Remington stated, “I’ve won two features in one night before, but never two clean sweeps. This was special.” Special indeed.

Four races, four wins, and two brand-new feature stickers for the matching gold No. 57s of John Remington.

The bad luck returned for the leader in the WISSOTA Modified division, this time before the race even started. Points leader Jason Schill was scheduled to start on the pole, but with a sick ride, Schill elected to start at the rear of the field and made just one lap before pulling the 11x onto the trailer. Outside front-row starter and second heat race winner Kevin Adams established himself as the early leader and left the rest of the field to battle for second. By lap five, Scott Splittstoesser took control of second place, but still restricted to use of a backup motor, the No. 2 could never reel in Adams.

At the checkers, it was Adams up front with Splittstoesser relegated to runner-up for an amazing fourth straight week. However, coupled with Schill’s bad luck, it was

enough to take over the lead in the track points battle. Dave Siercks cracked the top three for the first time this summer ahead of National Rookie points leader Andy Miskowic. First-time track visitor Brett Johnson rounded out the top five.

In Pure Stock competition, Nathan Fisk made it two in a row after breaking into Victory Lane for the first time last week. In what was the first of five clean sweeps on the evening, Fisk led from flag to flag. In a slight change from last week, Fisk won with the more conventional four wheel setup on the car, after winning despite the lack of a left front tire on June 22. The win vaulted Fisk to the top of the point standings as he beat Joel Hinrichs to the finish line. In his best run of the season, Shawn Willis charged from 14 to finish in third place ahead of Cooper Berlin and TJ LaMere.

Starting the feature fireworks was the Hornets. In the only division that did not produce a clean sweep, heat race winner Jason English led a record-high eight Hornet racers to the green flag. Division points leader Ben Johnson quickly took control and led to the halfway point. With nearly seven laps complete, Ryan McKenzie slid up in front of Johnson to take over the lead, where he would stay to the end. The victory was fourth consecutive for the pilot of the gold and black #D-9 Honda Civic.

Johnson stayed in second ahead of English, with Kevin Bradwell and Steven Johnson completing the top five.

Once the on-track fireworks were completed, track and event sponsors Fireworks Forever put on a dazzling and breathtaking nearly 20-minute display just off turns one and two on the track’s south side. The newly risen full moon provided an incredible backdrop to the fireworks. Spectators oooohed and aaaahed at the rousing celebration for the nation’s 231st birthday, supplied by the St. Croix Falls fireworks retailer.

On tap for the Kopellah Speedway is the Star-Spangled Spectacular, a special Wednesday night event on July 4. In addition to a complete regular racing program, the night will also include four make-up features in all four WISSOTA divisions from the rained out June 15 races. Scheduled to appear and run both the make-up features and the regular features are WISSOTA National Street Stock points leader Cory Crapser, WISSOTA National Super Stock points leader Ryan Aho, and WISSOTA Modified National points and National Rookie points leader Andy Miskowic. The first green flag is scheduled to fly at 6:30 p.m. Then, just two nights later, on Friday July 6, all of the speedway’s regular competitors will begin the second half of their season-long championship battle at the normal 7:30 starting time. For directions, race-

W a t e r c r o s s It was a great weekend for watercross racing at Frederic this past weekend.

Everyone who showed up enjoyed great weather and some fantastic racing. The local drivers were fun to watch on the water, especially Jen Carlson, No. 722. This was her first oval race, and she did well enough to make the guys work much harder.

Driver No. 444, Eric Peterson from Frederic, received a standing ovation for his crash on Sunday when he and his Ski-Doo rolled about four times on the water before going to the bottom of the lake. Eric said he was OK, just upset with himself for his 12th-place finish in the Pro Open Oval class.

Driver No. 104, Travis Nelson, from Grantsburg was able to pull off first place in the 600 stock drags, which is

day weather updates, current point standing and track information, please visit the track’s Web site at www.KopellahSpeedway.NET SUMMARY: Hornets: Feature - Ryan McKenzie, Ben Johnson, Jason English, Kevin Bradwell, Steven Johnson, Jesse Heldt, Krysta Swearingen, Cole Cloutier Heat – English, B. Johnson, McKenzie, S. Johnson, Heldt, Cloutier, Bradwell, Swearingen Pure Stocks: Feature - Nathan Fisk, Joel Hinrichs, Shawn Willis, Cooper Berlin, TJ LaMere, Travis, Jehlicka, Jesse Lutgen, Dustin Scheuer, Sampson Haseltine, Amanda Merrill, Bruce Lutgen, Ray Ziesmer, Michael Dyrdahl, Fabian Jackson, Steve Baker, Josh Bazey Heat 1 - Scheuer, Bazey, Jehlicka, J. Lutgen, Berlin, Jackson, Ziesmer, Merrill Heat 2 – Fisk, Baker, Dyrdahl, Hinrichs, LaMere, Haseltine, Willis, B. Lutgen WISSOTA AMSOIL Midwest Modifieds: Feature – John Remington, Jason Gross, Michael Haseltine, Bryan Siercks, Frank Soucek, Sam Nelson, Vince Corbin, Tim Swanson, Bryce Johnson, Tim Siercks, Myles McEvers, David Peterson, Dan Wheeler, Dan Larson Heat 1 – Remington, Soucek, Gross, Swanson, Corbin, Larson, T. Siercks Heat 2 – Wheeler, B. Siercks, Haseltine, Johnson, Nelson, McEvers, Peterson WISSOTA AMSOIL Street Stocks: Feature – Chanda Fjorden Nord, Jason Vande Kamp, Jim Miller, Trisha Nyren, Andy Spofford, Robert Lowe, Steve Lowe, Chad Spofford, Cory Crapser, Jeff Heintz, Lance Halverson, Paul Cornelison Heat 1 – Fjorden Nord, Crapser, R. Lowe, Halverson, S. Lowe, A. Spofford Heat 2 – Heintz, Vande Kamp, C. Spofford, Miller, Cornelison, Nyren WISSOTA AMSOIL Super Stocks: Feature – John Remington, Dan Gullikson, Cory Davis, Tony Gates, Dan Preston, Mike Bruggeman, Luke Strandlund, Brent Kobs, Doug Fisk, Harvey Fjorden, Ed Markel, John Meeds, Tim Baxter, Ted Marrs, Jason Gabrielson, Doug Merrill Heat 1 – Gullikson, Davis, Gates, Baxter, Marrs, Gabrielson, Fisk, Kobs Heat 2 – Remington, Preston, Bruggeman, Strandlund, Fjorden, Markel, Meeds, Merrill WISSOTA AMSOIL Modifieds: Feature Kevin Adams, Scott Splittstoesser, Dave Siercks, Andrew Miskowic, Brett Johnson, Shawn Kelley, Tim VanMeter, John Meeds, Jason Gross, Shawn Peterson, Terry Hanson, Jason Schill Heat 1 – Schill, Siercks, Splittstoesser, VanMeter, Peterson, Hanson Heat 2 – Adams, Miskowic, Johnson, Gross, Kelley, Meeds

T h o u g h t s his second win in that class for the year.

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for t July 21 and 22, for the 31st-Annual World Championship race in Grantsburg. This is always a full weekend of fun, which is put on this year by the Grantsburg Hockey Association.

For more information about this wild and crazy sport you can go to any of the following three Web sites to see photos, information and a short video about watercross racing. www.snowsclub.com - www.kmaracing.org - www.iwausa.org www.grantsburgwatercross.com.

See you all at the races,

The 2006-07 Pro Open Oval winner Dale Lindbeck from Stacy, Minn., in the Pro Open final race. - Photo submitted

Arlen Peterson No. 449, Retired

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L

E

A

Football openers With the high school football season a mere seven or so weeks away, here are the opening matchups: August 23: Birchwood-Weyerhauser versus St. Croix Falls; Unity versus Spooner (both games at UW-Stout). August 24: Frederic at Cameron; Webster at Siren; Prairie Farm at Luck and Amery at Grantsburg.

Note that our days start getting shorter beginning this Thursday. Where did the summer go?

D

J o h n R y a n

THE SPORTS

PAGE

WIAA board declines basketball action Two weeks ago the WIAA board of control rejected a controversial proposal from Wisconsin’s high school basketball coach’s advisory committee. The advisory committee recommended that all Division 3 and 4 non-public schools would be moved up one division for tournament play, but the board said “no go.”

Gala reunion planned, then cancelled July 21 was the date set for the 15th anniversary celebration of Unity’s WIAA summer baseball state championship.

Nevertheless, old-timers remember 1992 when - behind ace hurlers Marc Ince and Ryan Fisher - the Eagles steamrolled through the field at Stevens Point, culminating with a 3-0 win over Tomahawk in the finals. Fisher, of course, went on to be selected in the 29th round of the 1993 Major League baseball draft by the Montreal Expos.

Coach of the 1992 team was probable future hall-of-famer Mike Morris, who still skippers the Eagles today. Thanks to his team’s fine showing this year, Morris can now see 300 career coaching victories on the horizon. But will the cagey and versatile mentor who also coaches track and field choose to continue as baseball coach in 2008 when Unity begins spring baseball? Former Eagle multi-sport great Shaun Fisher has been named to replace Dennis Anderson as head boys’ basketball coach and he’s also both a track and baseball guy. Stay tuned for some possible reshuffling in the Unity athletic department.

Irony in Pirateville As the sun sets on WIAA summer baseball in this area, it seems either fitting or ironic that for the first time in eight years, the Grantsburg Pirates will not be hoisting a conference championship baseball banner in 2007. Pirate coach Pete Johnson had gone on record in the past to indicate his staunch support for maintaining the status quo when it comes to the WIAA’s two-season, spring-summer baseball format. But no doubt with some resignation, Johnson will instead be leading his team into a new season in 2008 as Grantsburg makes the shift to spring baseball along with other

E

Y E

O

N

J

Washburn saved after six solid innings

by Marty Seeger SEATTLE – Former Webster High School graduate Jarrod Washburn was on the mound last Friday against the Blue Jays. Washburn was said to have back stiffness before the start of the game, and with that in mind manager Mike Hargrove decided to pull him out after six innings.

“I didn’t want to come out, but Hargrove said he owed me one, so I’ll hold him to it,” Washburn said to MLB reporter Patrick Brown. “It’s hard to argue with him, as well as our bullpen DATE

TEAM

June 29 Blue Jays 2006 Mariners 2007 Mariners CAREER TOTALS

GS

W

1 31 16 230

1 8 7 90

E

Leader Land schools. In most small schools where track and spring baseball coexist, the district’s best athletes typically choose baseball over track. If that pattern prevails in tradition-rich Grantsburg next spring, expect the Pirates to instantly be pegged as the Lakeland Conference baseball favorites.

As a head coach, the youthful Johnson’s career winning percentage (which is in the vicinity of .780) places him among the elite coaches in the state. He’s expected to notch his 200th career victory already in April of 2009.

What’s wrong with the Webster Orioles?

Was their 2006 winning record and playoff appearance in only their second year of existence a fluke?

Spies working the Oriole beat say playermanager Greg Sears appeared to be frustrated last Sunday when his team lost handily to the lowly Seeley Loggers.

Webster’s season-opening victory over the Siren Steelers was their only win of the season.

This week’s trivia exercise focuses on those two great summer pasttimes: Bocce ball and snowmobile watercross. (All are True or False statements) 1) Mark Maki is in the Bocce Ball Hall of Fame. 2) One can successfully succeed as a Watercross racer by holding a beer in one hand during the competition. 3) Bocce Ball was developed in Poland and has spread to other countries with high numbers of Polish immigrants. 4) The small, target ball in Bocce Ball can be called either the pallino or baccino. 5) The first Grantsburg watercross event was held in 1977. 6) Bocce Ball purists would claim that the backyard version of the game that will be played over the Fouth of July holiday makes a travesty of the true sport of Bocce. 7) It would be ironic if someone forgot the name of the body of water which is the location for Grantsburg’s watercross.

8) The hit movie “Napoleon Dynamite” ends with the hero engaging Debbie in a spirited game of Bocce Ball. 9) The official sanctioning body of the pro watercross circuit is the AWA. 10) Thousands will attend a Bocce Ball extravaganza to be held at the Frederic municipal park in August of 2007.

Answers: 1) False. He’s in the snowmobile hall of fame 2) False. One can succeed in Bocce Ball, but not in watercross 3) False. Italy/Italians 4) True. Either name is acceptable, but pallino is more popular. 5) True 6) True. The real game is played on a court. 7) True, because it is located on “Memory Lake.” 8) False. They were playing Tetherball 9) False. It’s the IWA. 10) False. There are no plans for such an event. Next week: Demolition Derby trivia. (nah…just kidding)

4.03 4.67 4.03 4.03

P

O

R

T

S

LEADER S P O R T S S C O R E B O A R D HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL

Summer Lakeland Standings

Team New Richmond Grantsburg Unity Baldwin-Woodville Webster Siren Frederic

Conf.

10-0 8-3 7-4 7-4 2-7 2-7 0-8

Overall 15-1 14-4 11-6 11-7 2-9 2-10 0-11

Scores

Thursday, June 28 Grantsburg 3, Baldwin-Woodville 1 Baldwin-Woodville 7, Grantsburg 1 Luck Legion at Webster, cancelled New Richmond 31, Frederic 0 New Richmond 11, Frederic 1 Unity 12, Siren 5 Friday, June 30 St. Croix Falls Legion 14, Amery Legion 4 St. Croix Falls Legion 10, Amery Legion 1 Monday, July 2 Webster at Frederic, postponed New Richmond 16, Unity 3.

Baldwin-Woodville 24, Siren 2

Coming Up

Thursday, July 5 Grantsburg at Luck Legion, 6 p.m.

Legion All-Star Game at Bloomer, TBA Friday, July 6 Frederic at St. Croix Falls Legion, cancelled Webster at Frederic, 6 p.m.

Grantsburg at Pine City, 6 p.m.

Monday, July 9 Baldwin-Woodville at Frederic, 6 p.m.

Siren at Webster, 6 p.m.

Luck Legion at Unity, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, July 10 Grantsburg at New Richmond, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 11 St. Croix Falls Legion at Osceola, 6 p.m.

SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL

Falun Church League Standings

Team Falun Churches ` Trade Lake Baptist Siren Assembly Siren Covenant-Bethany Webster Baptist West Sweden-Zion Lutheran Frederic Free Living Hope-Grace Calvary Covenant Trade River Free Faith Lutheran

Overall 5-0 5-0 4-2 4-2 3-3 2-3 2-3 1-3 1-4 1-4 0-5

Area Scores

Wednesday, June 27 Siren Men’s Slow Pitch League Sundown 13, Hole in Wall 0 Hap’s Landing 19, TNJ 13 Pour House 13, Century-21 9

Jed’s 13, GJones Construction 8 Thursday, June 28 Falun Church League Falun Churches 19, Frederic Free 12 Living Hope-Grace 12, Faith Lutheran 10 Friday, June 29 Falun Church League Trade Lake Baptist 10, Trade River Baptist 9 Siren Assembly 9, Webster Baptist 6 Siren Covenant 17, West Sweden-Zion Lutheran 9 Monday, July 2 Siren Women’s Slow Pitch Chell Trucking 14, H-Twon Girls 7 Skol Bar 19, Coyland 4 Maurer Construction 13, T&J Logging 8

AMATEUR BASEBALL

Independent League Standings

Team St. Croix Ravens Haugen Knights Haugen Hornets Brill Spooner Cumberland Hayward Stanberry Weyerhaeuser Grantsburg Webster Siren Seeley

League 7-0 6-0 5-1 5-1 3-3 3-3 3-4 3-3 2-3 3-4 1-7 0-7 1-5

Overall 14-5 6-0 5-1 5-1 6-7 3-3 3-4 3-3 2-3 4-6 1-7 1-7 1-5

Eastern Minny League Standings Central Division

Team Chisago Lakes, Minn.

Braham, Minn.

Pine City, Minn.

St. Croix River Bandits

League. Overall 8-4 10-5 5-11 5-11 6-8 6-8 4-10 6-14

Scores

Saturday, June 30 St. Croix Ravens 13, Siren 1 St. Croix River Bandits 4, Braham, Minn. 1 Sunday, July 1 Grantsburg, 3, Hayward 2 Brill 25, Siren 1 Seeley 9, Webster 3

Coming Up

Wednesday, July 4 Siren at Exeland, 11 a.m.

Thursday, July 5 St. Croix River Bandits at Princeton, Minn., 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 7 St. Croix River Bandits at Milaca, Minn., 2 p.m. (doubleheader) Sunday, July 8 Seeley at Grantsburg, 1 p.m.

Cumberland at Webster, 1 p.m.

Weyerhaeuser at Siren, 1 p.m.

Chisago Lakes at St. Croix River Bandits, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, July 10 St. Croix River Bandits at Cumberland, 6 p.m.

Leader Sports: What other sports section cover seven hometown schools?

E-mail John Ryan at jmr202@yahoo.com

A R R O D

. . .

has done this season.”

The Mariners game on Saturday was the teams sixth-straight win.

Then on Sunday Seattle recorded their eighth- Jarrod Washburn straight victory.

Washburn’s start on Friday came just one day prior to coach Hargrove’s announcement that he was retiring from the game. Hargrove has skippered the Mariners for over three years, and is leaving the team after their best winning streak in over three years. – with information from MLB.com

JARROD WASHBURN STATS: L ERA IP H R 0 14 6 77

S

R

6 187.0 98.1 1438.2

9 198 104 1424

2 103 48 682

ER

HR

BB

SO

2 97 44 645

0 25 7 182

1 55 32 435

0 103 49 851

B R E W E R S -T W I N S

S

OAPBOX

Next: @ Pirates @ Nationals It’s the first time since 1983 that the Milwaukee has been able to send four players to the All-Star game, which will be played in San Francisco on July 10. Slugger and first baseman Prince Fielder was at the top of the list for the Brewers this year, and shortstop J.J. Hardy, who’s now batting .284 will also join the list. For pitchers it will be starting ace Ben Sheets (10-3) and closer, Francisco Cordero, who still leads the league in saves with 27. The Brewers ae still finding ways to win even though they’ve struggled with the Cubs. On Friday the Brewers lost a heartbreaker when Cordero gave up a two-run homer with two outs in the bottom of the ninth to lose the first game of the series. They trounced Chicago on the following Saturday but lost again on Sunday. The Crew will have yet another chance to bounce back from the series loss with a long road series against the Pirates and Nationals before the break. Only time will tell if they can skip through the break and continue to win. – Marty Seeger

Next: @ Yankees, White Sox Three would be the magic number for the Twins in the past week. Three Twins were named to the All-Star team. Justin Morneau, Johan Santana and Torii Hunter will all play in the 78th mid-summer classic. The Twins built a three-game winning streak, and they took two of three games from the divisionleading Tigers in the process. Michael Cuddeyer hit a three-run shot in the second game of that seires. Scott Baker looked great on the mound for the Twins on July 1 against the Tigers despite their 1-0 loss. Baker held the Tigers’ All-Star batters to 1-11 hitting.

Relief pitcher Phil Nieshek may be joining the All-Star trio from Minnesota if fans vote him in this week. Manager Ron Gardenhire heading up the American League All-Star squad.

Before the mid-summer festivities, the Twins have a pair of three-game series against the Yankees and White Sox. Both will be key in the Twins’ postseason hopes. Fortunately, Santana will be available in the bull pen before the break. – Matt Blumkin

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

O UTDOORS INTER- COUNTY LEADER

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

Trouble on the lake?

Find burning nettles Fishing has been generally productive as of late. At least what my that’s friends, relatives and other outdoor enthusiasts have been telling To be honest, the Marty me. last time I touched my Seeger fishing poles was when I found a new place in the garage to The hang them, as Bottom Line opposed to just letting them collect dust in the corner next to the spilled Lawn Boy oil, busted weed whacker and globs of dust.

It’s certainly been busy over the past month, and as summer slowly slips by, so do my chances at logging quality hours on the lake. Since I’m generally a patient person, I know that the opportunity to go fishing will present itself soon, but hearing other people’s success stories can drive me crazy. It’s not that I don’t love to hear about the successes of other people—I just get a little

jealous.

Take the phone calls I received from my uncle over the weekend. His name came up on the cell phone just before noon on Saturday, and I instantly knew that he was going to invite me to go bass fishing. I also knew that I would have to decline.

He called later the next day to brag about the five bass he boated. One bass was close to 20 inches and another, which was roughly 14 inches, was grabbed by a huge pike that snapped his line. He claims that whatever took that bass was huge, and I believe him.

He then called a few hours later to brag about the 26-inch walleye he caught in the late afternoon on Sunday.

It was a river walleye, which got me thinking about all the times I spent fishing the rivers this time of year.

Since the month of June has vanished, we’re now starting to creep into a month where the fishing tends to be a little slower as the water starts to heat up.

For bass and musky anglers this is the start of some fast action on the water, but for the bluegill and walleye guy this can be some tough going, unless you can catch a bite just before the changing weather and hit the weed edges after dark.

For those reasons I had always con-

centrated on bass and muskie, but when there was no way to get on the lake, it was always prime opportunity to hit the rivers. With rising temperatures and low rainfall, it was always my theory that fish tended to congregate in the deepest pools of the river during the peak summer heat. As the water lowered fish had no place to go except the deeper areas of the river, and hold up until the rain hit hard, or overcast conditions persisted.

Over the years I’ve found that fishing a river system during the middle of the day can be productive as well, especially walleye, which tend to find these spots when the weather really gets miserable. Some of my biggest walleyes were caught when the weather was so humid, or so unbearable that most anglers found the comforts of air conditioning to be the ticket instead.

It hasn’t gotten to that point yet, and it’s been a better year for rainfall this season, but the dry days of July tend to spark fish activity.

Unless your floating a certain river in a jonboat, these spots can be nearly impenetrable by foot, but if you’re looking for only a couple of hours on the water, you may want to hoof it. On most float trips it takes more than one person and more than a few hours to accomplish, so if you can find a back-

If the going gets tough on the lake, try fishing a river system, no matter how high the burning nettles might be. - Photo submitted door to some of these areas by foot, it can be worth a try.

Now, if you’re planning to trek to these locations on foot, be sure to bring lots of bug spray, and prepare for patches of burning nettles that extend over your head. The mosquitos tend to be hungrier than usual, and taking the kids along might prove disastrous. The prospect of catching fish in this fashion may not sound all that appealing, and you might get skunked in the process, but the opportunity to catch a hungry river walleye or virtually any species is there for the taking. Plus, the chances of seeing another person in your favorite fishing hole is slim to none, making your chances of catching fish that much better.

Bald eagle soars off endangered species list WASHINGTON, D.C – Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne recently announced the removal of the bald eagle for the list of threatened and endangered species at a ceremony at the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C. After nearly disappearing from most of the United States decades ago, the bald eagle is now flourishing across the nation and no longer needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act. “Today I am proud to announce: the eagle has returned,” said Secretary Kempthorne. “In 1963, the lower 48 states were home to barely 400 nesting pairs of bald eagles. Today, after decades of conservation effort, they are home to some 10,000 nesting pairs, a 25fold increase in the last 40 years. Based on its dramatic recovery, it is my honor to announce the Department of the Interior’s decision to remove the American Bald Eagle from the Endangered Species List.”

In the Midwest, eagle numbers are among the highest in the continental United States, with Minnesota leading the lower 48 states with 1,312 breeding pairs. Wisconsin’s population is the nation’s third largest outside Alaska, with 1,065 pairs.

“Here in the Midwest, where eagles have rebounded so well, we commend the cooperative spirit that brought the nation’s symbol back to the Great Lakes and rivers of our region,” said Robyn Thorson, Midwest Regional Director for the Interior Department’s U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “And we point with pride to one of the Fish and Wildlife Service’s own - Rachel Carson - whose courage and determination in calling attention to the dangers of DDT made the eagle’s recovery possible. What a fitting way to celebrate what would be her 100th birthday this year.”

Kempthorne emphasized the ongoing commitment of the Interior Department and the entire federal government to the eagle’s continued success, noting that bald eagles will continue to be protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle

Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Both federal laws prohibit taking – killing, selling or otherwise harming eagles, their nests or eggs.

“After years of careful study, public comment and planning, the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are confident in the future security of the American Bald Eagle,” Kempthorne said. “From this point forward, we will work to ensure that the eagle never again needs the protection of the Endangered Species Act.” Earlier this month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service clarified its regulations implementing the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and published a set of National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines. These measures are designed to give landowners and others clear guidance on how to ensure that actions they take on their property are consistent with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. In addition, the service is accepting public comments on a proposal to establish a permit program under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act that would allow a limited take of bald and golden eagles. Any take authorized would be consistent with the purpose and goal of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, ensuring eagle populations remain healthy and sustainable.

The removal of the bald eagle from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants will become effective 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. Upon delisting, the service will continue to work with state wildlife agencies to monitor eagles for at least five years, as required by the Endangered Species Act. If at any time it appears that the bald eagle again needs the act’s protection, the service can propose to relist the species. The service has developed a draft monitoring plan that is available for public review and comment.

The bald eagle first gained federal protection in 1940, under what later

became the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The eagle was later given additional protection under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Soon after passage of the Eagle Act, populations stabilized or increased in most areas of the country. However, the eagle population fell into steep decline in later decades, due primarily to widespread use of the pesticide DDT after World War II. DDT accumulated in eagles and caused them to lay eggs with weakened shells, decimating the eagle population across the nation. Concerns about the bald eagle resulted in its protection in 1967 under the predecessor to the current Endangered Species Act. The eagle was one of the original species protected by the ESA when it was enacted in 1973.

The legal protections given the species by these statutes, along with a crucial decision by the Environmental Protection Agency to ban the general use of DDT in 1972, provided the springboard for the Service and its partners to accelerate recovery through captive breeding programs, reintroductions, law enforcement efforts, protection of habitat around nest sites and land purchase and preservation activities. The eagle responded dramatically to these actions. From an all-time low of 417 breeding pairs in 1963, the population in the lower 48 states has grown to a high of 9,789 pairs today. Fortunately, the bald eagle has never needed the protection of the ESA in Alaska, where the population is estimated at between 50,000 and 70,000 birds.

“It’s fitting that our national symbol has also become a symbol of the great things that happen through cooperative conservation,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director H. Dale Hall.

“Eagles could not have recovered without a support network of strong partnerships among government at all levels, tribes, conservation organizations, the business community and individual citizens.”

Concurrently with this announce-

ment, the service is making the draft post-delisting monitoring plan available and is soliciting public comment for 90 days. Comments on the monitoring plan must be received 90 days after publication in the Federal Register.

Comments may be sent by mail to Bald Eagle Post-Delisting Monitoring Plan Comments, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Rock Island Field Office, 1511 47th Avenue, Moline, Illinois 61265.

Comments may also be transmitted electronically to baldeaglePDM@fws.gov or by following the instructions at the Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov.

More information about the bald eagle and the post-delisting monitoring plan is available on the service’s bald eagle Web site at www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/baldeagle.htm.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the principal federal agency responsible for conserving, protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The service manages the 97-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System, which encompasses 547 national wildlife refuges, thousands of small wetlands and other special management areas. It also operates 69 national fish hatcheries, 64 fishery resources offices and 81 ecological services field stations. The agency enforces federal wildlife laws, administers the Endangered Species Act, manages migratory bird populations, restores nationally significant fisheries, conserves and restores wildlife habitat such as wetlands, and helps foreign and Native American tribal governments with their conservation efforts. It also oversees the Federal Assistance program, which distributes hundreds of millions of dollars in excise taxes on fishing and hunting equipment to state fish and wildlife agencies. – from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

L

E

A

D

E

R

O

U

T

D

O

O

R

S

Kids are first fishing contest BALSAM LAKE – Beautiful sunshine filled the atmosphere at Half Moon Lake on Saturday, June 2, as 111 children enjoyed a great day of fishing at the Unity Lions Club’s 13th-annual Kids Are First Fishing Contest. “It’s good to see all of the kids out here,” commented Lion Fred Jenderny, cochairman of the Kids Are First event. “Thank goodness for sunshine,” said Lion Sandy Jendery chairman of the contest. “It’s also good to see some of the kids who used to fish at the contest bring their own kids fishing, and some of the other youth bringing in more youth to fish with them,” she added.

“The kids have so much fun” said Lion Roger Englund, who has been assisting with the contest every year since the beginning.

First-place winners this year received tents sponsored by the Unity Lions Club and they also receive an embroidered shirt sponsored by Roger Englund and Embroidery Plus. Second-place winners received large tackle boxes from the Osceola Rod and Gun Club.

Smallest fish in each category received a small tackle box from Interstate Veterinary Clinic. The youngest fishermen of the day received Shrek fishing poles sponsored by Bed and Biscuit Pet Shop.

This year’s winners included: Northern: 1st: Lynelle Packer, 2nd: Steven Sturm, smallest: Janet Hunter.

Sunfish: 1st: Kelly Tourville, 2nd: Courtney Johnson, smallest: Derek Hochstetler.

Crappie: 1st: Amanda Kuske.

Bass: 1st: Joe Lobert, 2nd: Alex Bertch, smallest: Tyler Swanson.

Rock bass: 1st: Brittany Kruse and Tim Peterson, 2nd: Steven Sturm, smallest: Gracie Stepnowski.

Perch: 1st: Shay Nelson, 2nd: Andrew Thurmes, smallest: Elisha Hochstetler, Alex Drake, Madison Jensen.

Prizes were also presented to the young fisherman who traveled the furthest, which went to Christopher Simon from Texas.

Youngest fishermen received kids fishing poles: Gracie Stepnowski, Landon Ellingsworth, and Braden King.

“It’s a beautiful day for the contest,” stated Unity Lions secretary Sylvia Kuske as she served nachos and ho dogs. The hot dogs, nachos and cheese, pop and watermelon were all donated for the day to be provided free to the

Kids Are First Fishing Contest winners included not in order: Northern: Lynelle Packer, Steven Sturm, Janet Hunter; Sunfish: Kelly Tourville, Courtney Johnson, Derek Hochstetler; Crappie: Amanda Kuske; Bass: Joe Lobert, Alex Bertch, Tyler Swanson; Perch: Shay Nelson, Andrew Thurmes, Elisha Hochstetler, Alex Drake, Madison Jensen; Rock Bass: Brittany Kruse, Tim Peterson, Steven Sturm, Gracie Stepnowski. - Photos by Jeanne Alling children and their adult friends.

Unity Lions Club President Andy Brown brought his 3-year-old son, Mason, to the contest for the first time, “Mason had so much fun today he can’t wait until next year’s event.”

Gratitude is extended to the area businesses and organizations who donated cash and prizes for this year’s event: Embroidery Plus, Osceola Rod and Gun Club, S&C Bank, Eagle Valley Bank, Bremer Bank, Qualle Bear Daycare,

Rural American Bank, Johnson Motor Sales, White Bear Machine, Bed & Biscuit Pet Shop, Jeff’s Small Engines, Buddy’s Build to Run, Wild Mountain, Interstate Vet, Peper’s Tire, Deer Lake Sports, Hansen Financial Services, Steve’s Appliance Plus, Tangen Drug, Northbound Sports, Frederic Golf Course, Martin Jewelry, Fawn Doe Rosa, Mike’s Sport & Marine; Fox Den Motel/Resort, Balsam Lake Hardware, Dale A. Johnson Accountant, The Bottle

The youngest fishermen were presented kids fishing poles with cartoon characters on them. Pictured with their parents are Landon Ellingsworth, Braden King and Gracie Stepnowski.

Shop, Silver Stone Co., Shiloh Heating & Air Conditioning, Adventures, Mike.

Gratitude is also extended to Northern Bar, Pro Lawn, Indianhead Chiropractic, Ogilvie Napa, Van Meters Meat, Lake Country Cheese, Dan Jones, JJ’s Club 35, Blacksmith Shop, Mary Ellen’s Lady Fair, Jensen Furniture, Fleet Supply, MarketPlace, Circle C, Great Northern Outdoors, ABC Lumber, Melin Pharmacy, Reed’s Sunnyside, Mark Forster Septic Service, McKenzie Lanes, Hair’s The Thing, Prudential Financial, Pawn Gallery, Cenex, Peper’s Service Station, Flying Pie Pizza, Main Street Cafe, Holiday StationStore-Milltown, Do It Best Hardware-Milltown, Shafer’s Bar & Cafe, Anglers, Frederic Hardware, Interstate Auto Electric, Mr. Movies, Beans Country Griddle.

Donations were also from: Wise Guys, Hack’s Pub, Subway-St. Croix Falls, Subway-Frederic, Durex, Uncle Donuts, Edina Realty-Scott Mellon, Dick Clark, Logger’s Bar & Grill, Hill’s Super Valu, Larsen Auto, Top Spot, Vern’s Country Market, The Dugout, Tractor Supply, Frederic Acorn Bakery, Logger’s Bar & Grill, Hill’s Super Valu, Lil Orbit, Rose Garden, Steve HansonHwy. 8 Flea Market, Cookie, Bill Moran, Pioneer Bar, Good Ol’ Drive Inn, Paul’s Fishing Tackle Co., Ginger’s Hotdog Stand, Ginger’s Mini Donut Stand, Eric Moran Food Stand, Helen the Jam Lady.

The following businesses contributed to the event: Video Vault-Frederic, Rose Garden, Avalon, St. Croix Press-Ed Monet, Suzy Q’s Snowshoe Tavern, Lakeland Communications, Edina Realty, State Farm Insurance, U.S. Bank, Swank’s, Parts Plus, Polaris, Jim and Dolly Peterson, Kim and Dray Meador, T.C. Frame, St. Croix Outdoors, Polk Co. Sportsman’s Club, Wayne & Mike Fruit Co., Wal-Mart, Milltown Drive Inn, Embers, McDonald’s, George the Candy Man, American Ice Co., Pepsi, and Coca-Cola Co. The South Milltown 4-H served ice cream cones for their dairy promotion activity as a part of June Dairy Month at the fishing contest.

The Lions Club is a service organization with a motto of We Serve. Any proceeds from the contest will fund Unity Lions service projects for the community. - submitted

South Milltown 4-H members served ice-cream cones as a dairy promotion activity at the Kids Are First Fishing Contest in June. 4-H’ers included: Johanna Alling, Julia Larsen and Jenelle Larsen.

Unity Lion member Bill Alleva assists Amelia Johnson with removing the hook from her fish at the Kids Are First Fishing Contest.

Unity Lions members Fred and Sandy Jenderny, along with Roger Englund, have coordinated the Kids Are First Fishing Contest for the past 13 years.

There were 111 youth that participated in the event at Half Moon Lake this year, with hundreds of door prizes presented too.

Mason, age 3, did a happy dance when his name was called off for a door prize. Mason is the son of Unity Lions President Andy Brown.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

Help...and get a warm vacation

by Diane Dryden SHELL LAKE — If you like this summer weather and would like to have some of it to enjoy again this coming January, Dr. Margaret Redfall has a way to do just that.

Some people may leave their hearts in San Francisco, but she has fallen in love with the island of Haiti. No, maybe not the island, but certainly with the people.

Several trips ago, she knew she wanted to do more for these desperately poor people who can not afford the medical attention they urgently need.

She has come up with a clever solution that will not only help those on the island, but also make it possible for you to spend a week in an all-inclusive beachfront luxury hotel at a special reduced rate next Jan. 12-19.

Marcia Movrich at Carlson Wagonlit Travel at 800-9246295, will fill you in on all the details if you mention the Haiti/Dominican Republic trip. The special rate available to this group alone is $1,200 including round-trip air from Minneapolis. All inclusive means just that, all your meals and your room are all in the price.

So, now you’re asking yourself, what’s the catch?

Yes, there is one, but after you hear what it is you’ll understand.

“We have been working on getting school uniforms for the children and their delivery to Haiti next January,” says Redfall. “I have found an excellent source of high-quality fabrics available at a minimal cost. The cost will be about $3 per uniform, and there is a willing crew of sewers to produce them.”

Being a doctor, she is also looking for travelers wanting to take a January vacation that would allow their check-in luggage of two 50-pound bags to be used for medical supplies and the uniforms. The boxes would be delivered to the Minneapolis airport to coincide with the flight check-in, and then in Haiti, the

This blind and deaf man sat like this for hours holding his medical ticket waiting to be seen by the doctors. Even though the medicines ran out and everyone left, he was still there waiting for someone to help him. — Photo submitted plane would be met by Pastor Yves in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. He would then transport all the supplies in a truck back to Bon Repo, Haiti, which is

on the other half of the island, where it will be distributed to the orphanage and school. That would mean that you would get a wonderful all-inclusive week at a bargain rate in exchange for your two check-in luggage allotments. You will have to pack all your personal items in your carry-on, which can weigh 40 pounds. Looking at it a different way, you can shop all you want and check it all on your return trip, and just how many outfits do you really need in an all-inclusive resort?

If you can’t make the trip this year, you can still help out. In addition to the uniforms, school supplies are very much needed including notebooks, pencils, crayons, scissors, solar-powered calculators, school bags, etc. No time to shop? Cash donations always work with checks made out to Haiti Missions. Tax receipts will be provided, and the needed items themselves may be donated also.

On one of the last medical missions to Haiti, the team saw hundreds of patients and many walked a day to get to the makeshift clinic. Every day, tickets would be handed out with numbers on them, and patients were seen when their number was called.

Each day, there was less and less medicine with just as many people coming for help. Soon the medicines ran out, and everyone left including the locals who would continue to be sick and in pain. Some were left to die without help, medicine, medical staff or hope.

No wonder this Haiti Mission team and Margaret Redfall are so determined to return time and time again. All they ask of you is a little help in the form of your two check-in bags.

It seems to be a small price to pay for a week in paradise.

For more information contact Dan Slater at 715-5200516. Donations can be made to Haiti Missions Care of the Full Gospel Church.

Wal-Mart is granted fifth extension

by Regan Kohler SHELL LAKE — A fifth extension for the deadline of the purchase agreement and development of WalMart was granted by the Washburn County Board of Supervisors at their meeting Tuesday, June 26, in the Elliott Building, Shell Lake.

The resolution passed by the board reads that the modified terms of the purchase agreement authorize extension from the fourth and previous deadline of Aug. 12, 2007, to Feb. 12, 2008, with an option to extend it further, as long as the extension is made before Aug. 12, 2008. Additional extension fees of up to $30,000 per each one would be given to the county, but it won’t receive the sales price since the sale of the land to the company hasn’t actually closed yet. There is a provision in the agreement that the additional time past Aug. 12, 2008, is only available if litigation hasn’t been resolved.

Wal-Mart representatives and legal counsel had approached the county’s executive committee earlier this month asking for four six-month extensions, which could mean up to 2009 for a deadline. Pending litigation and ongoing studies on the traffic rerouting at the proposed site of the store, off Hwy. 53 and CTH H in Spooner, were cited as a couple of reasons for the extensions.

The litigation came from Washburn County First, an organization opposed to development of a Wal-Mart in the area. There were two lawsuits; the first was against the county alleging violation of open-meeting laws in the sale of the land, and the second was against the Spooner Board of Appeals, regarding two variances granted to Wal-Mart’s developers. The latter was in concern that the variances, which were on parking stall sizes and the distance setback the building would be from Hwy. 53 and its right of way, weren’t discussed thoroughly enough before being changed and could pose a higher traffic danger. The county lawsuit was settled out of court, and the other was dismissed by a circuit judge but later appealed by WCF’s attorney.

Before the extension was discussed on the agenda Tuesday night, a couple members of WCF spoke to the lawsuits. WCF Chair Steve Carlson, Trego, told the board that his group had dropped their appeal immediately following a June 18 meeting in which the Spooner City Council and Plan Commission deleted and then recreated the setback ordinance. Carlson said that WCF felt the governing bodies had acted properly in making the decision to allow a closer setback, and that there was, at that point, no foreseeable litigation from his group. Carlson also said he felt the county should find out what Wal-Mart’s agenda is, if they

were still seeking an extension.

“I think Wal-Mart has an obligation to come forward with them,” he said.

Don Posh, Spooner, said that with a potential WalMart, the county highway shop and the proposed Spooner school being located all in that area and creating more traffic, a comprehensive plan may have been needed.

“Without it, you can see that we’ve created a problem,” he said.

When the extension came up, board chair Michael Bobin asked Wal-Mart’s attorney, Sue Steinwall, if she felt the purchase agreement should still be amended.

Steinwall suggested moving forward with the purchase agreement. Bobin then reminded her that this would be the third amendment to the agreement.

Supervisor Greg Krantz asked Steinwall if the company was considered under litigation still, and if she would like to wait until next month’s meeting since the deadline hasn’t arrived yet. Steinwall replied that this was a possibility.

Bobin said that at the executive committee’s meeting, they had been told the extension was because of the lawsuits and the engineers, but that the engineers had said by August they could be ready.

“Why do we need another year?” he asked Steinwall.

Steinwall replied that they still needed some approvals. The first was a final agreement among the Department of Transportation, the county and the city of Spooner on how to handle the traffic.

“We’re expecting a revised scope of work shortly,” she said.

Another reason was that they needed approval from the Wisconsin Railroad Commission for an alignment of CTH A and CTH H on Hwy. 63, which runs parallel to Hwy. 53 and is where the turnoff to Wal-Mart would be. This, she said, is because the railroad tracks which run parallel to Hwy. 63 and cross CTH H would see the switch affected. A state hearing then needs to be held on this issue, she said.

Last, Steinwall said, the city needs to approve the final plat for the store, as well as the developer’s agreement, and a memorandum of understanding with the DOT on the road improvements. The MOU hearing will be held in July, she added.

“I certainly didn’t mean to mislead the executive committee,” Steinwall said.

Bobin said he understood, and he just didn’t want to see the other issues misconstrued as litigation, to which Steinwall replied the only litigation they had been concerned with then was the BOA lawsuit.

Bobin then asked her how much of what Wal-Mart

has already paid, which includes the extension fees, the county would retain if, in one year, Wal-Mart were to pull out. Steinwall replied that they would keep $20,000.

Bobin told the audience that no tax dollars from either the city of Spooner or Washburn County will be paid toward the project, as far as he knew.

Steinwall told the board that the engineers met with Spooner’s city administrator and that the final DOT determination may come in early July after the MOU meeting.

Supervisor Barbara Love asked if it would hinder anything to postpone the resolution request until July, since there may be more questions. Steinwall said she thought her client needed to be satisfied that the litigation had been dismissed, “just to get this behind us,” and that she wanted to see action taken that night.

Love then moved to table the resolution, seconded by supervisor Ralph Roseboom. However, the motion failed 11-9, with supervisors Bobin, Michael Waggoner, Tom Persen, William Allard, Clay Halverson, Barry Nielsen, Romaine Quinn, James Sundeen, Don Quinton, Steve Sather and William Campbell voting no, and supervisors Love, Krantz, Roseboom, Dan Hubin, Jay Hands, Elizabeth Esser, Eugene Barrett, Ed Olund and newly elected Glen Wisner voting yes. Youth representatives Jaclyn Berhuis and Jessica Martin also voted yes, and supervisor Chuck Melton was absent.

Steinwall was then asked what she foresaw two years beyond Aug. 12, if litigation returned. Steinwall replied that if there is none by the second six-month extension, that is their final one. If any lawsuits do come up again, she added, then her client has either the choice of the last two six-month extensions or terminating the project.

The resolution was then passed 14-6. Barrett, Waggoner, Persen, Allard, Halverson, Nielsen, Krantz, Bobin, Olund, Quinn, Sundeen, Campbell, Hubin and Quinton voted yes, with Love, Wisner, Roseboom, Esser, Hands and Sather voting no. Berghuis and Martin also voted yes.

In the second portion of citizens‚ comments, Posh spoke again, saying that if the county had a comprehensive plan, they wouldn’t be in this “mess.” He said that there would be too many businesses crammed into one area, especially if the railroad freight line becomes active, and rhetorically asked if this extension was a ploy to see how much the project could get from taxpayers.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

Burnett County criminal court Jon Minar, Cumberland, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Steven J. Greeley, 30, Clear Lake, issue worthless check, $50.00 - restitution, $243.00.

Betty Shearen, 52, Spooner, issue worthless check, $249.00.

Shannon M. Bellanger, 30, Webster, bail jumping, two-year probation, no possession or consumption of alcohol, $88.00; OWI, $1,209.00, two-year probation, license revoked three years, 110 days’ jail time - consecutive other sentence, alcohol assessment.

Russell A. Manning, 39, Shell Lake, operate without a valid license, $413.00.

Michelle E. Taylor, 31, Hayward, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Mark Stoner, 36, Siren, disorderly conduct, $249.00

Thomas J. Easland, 40, Webster, disorderly conduct, 20 days’ jail time, Huber privileges granted, $163.00.

Christopher L. Johnson, 19, Frederic, resisting an officer, $350.00.

Jolene K. Pirila, 41, Siren, neglecting a child, one-year probation, completion of parenting class, $88.00.

Rose M. Carlson, 44, Siren, theft of movable property < = $2,500, one-year probation, $500 - restitution, $77.00.

Billy J. Garbow, 28, Danbury, criminal damage to property, one-year probation, $350.88 - restitution, restricted contact with the victim, $88.00.

M. Sutton, Lynn 22, Webster, battery, one-year probation, restricted contact with victim, $163.00.

Dale R. Polaski, 43, Webster, operate snowmobile while intoxicated, $701.00, 10 days’ jail time, Huber privileges granted.

Jack A. Ledbetter Jr., 43, Cumberland, operate with PAC of .08, $894.00, alcohol assessment, 10 days’ jail time, license revoked 12 months, Huber privileges granted.

Keith W. Oiyotte, 50, Webster, OWI, $1,209.00, 60 days’ jail time, license revoked 24 months, Huber privileges granted.

Amy K. Kopecky, 32, Siren, OWI, $1,203.00, alcohol assessment, 60 days’ jail time, license revoked 24 months, Huber for employment purposes; OWI, $2,682.00, two-year probation, 60 days’ jail time consecutive to other sentence,

license revoked 24 months concurrent to other revocation, must remain involved in New Beginnings, alcohol assessment, fine and jail sentence maybe reduced upon reveiw, Huber for employment purposes.

Tracee R. Belisle, 22, Webster, possession of cocaine, one-year probation, license suspended six months, jail time five months, alcohol assessment, 30 hours community sevice, $88.00.

Rachel L. Erickson, 20, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Dimitri J. Audie, 18, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Jon J. Bram, 34, St. Croix Falls, operating while suspended, $113.00.

Real Estate / Employment

Sarah E. Ricci, 26, Webster, failure to license dog, two counts, $309.00.

Joseph R. Weithaus, 63, Burlington, failure to yield to right of way, $113.00.

Matthew R. Bambery, 17, Webster, operate snowmobile on private property, $160.80.

James P. Meath, 46, Hastings, Minn., operate vehicle in navigable water, $113.00.

Lashawn L. Nohrenberg, 17, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Christopher E. Hawkinson, 32, Maple Lake, Minn., ATV operation adjacent to roadway, $113.00.

Jesse D. Rehbein, 23, Shafer, Minn., ATV operation adjacent to roadway, $113.00.

Justin Retherford, 25, North Branch, Minn., ATV operation adjacent to roadway, $113.00.

William J. Holmes, 43, Danbury, unsafe lane deviation, $160.80 Jason A. Kirby, 32, Siren, obstruction an officer, $249.00.

Steven R. Youngblom, 37, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $236.40.

Nancy A. McCutcheon, 45, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Jon A. Swanson, 39, Superior, speeding, $186.00.

Burnett Co. civil court Palisades Acquisition XVI, LLC vs. Gregory A. Peterson, Grantsburg, $3,773.29.

Grindell Law Offices, SC vs.

Randy A. Lindberg, Webster, $1,787.00.

Discover Bank vs. James P. Heilman, Jr., Spooner, $4,914.62.

Bayfield Financial LLC vs.

Gregory A. Peterson, Grantsburg, $3,083.54.

MRC Receivables Corp. vs.

Jennifer Lee, Siren, $1,722.05 U.S. Bank vs. Gina L. Timmer, Grantsburg, return of 1999 Ford Excursion plus $281.50.

Bitney Law Firm Ltd. vs.

Jonathan Oyinloye, Webb Lake, $1,271.16 Larson Auto Center, Inc. vs.

Michael Holmes, Danbury, $459.48.

Burnett Medical Center vs.

John M. Larson, Danbury, $1,750.55.

Gary L. Kaefer, DDS vs.

Jimmy Siler et al, Grantsburg, $871.16 Discover Bank vs. Pamela S. Smith, Danbury, $4,776.94

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

Notices/ Employment The Leader is a cooperativeowned newspaper

Burnett Co. deaths Theodora L. Mann, 56, Oakland Township, June 15.

Roger L. Perron, 67, Siren Township, May 29.

Garage Sale

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Bears getting bigger, braver

Bears continue to get braver as they hunt for something to eat. At left, Willis McLain snapped a photo of this bear, using a ladder at his Burnett County home to reach a bird feeder. At right, Sandie Sahr of Frederic snapped a photo of this large bear, estimated to be nearly 400 pounds, on the front lawn of her home on the north edge of Frederic. “It was July 1 and there were about 30 cars stopped on Hwy. 35 as people snapped photos,” said Chuck Sahr, Sandie’s husband. It’s the same bear that has been roaming the Frederic area, Sahr said.

Crash fatal for Spooner woman 14-year-old driver involved TOWNSHIP — EVERGREEN Washburn County Sheriff’s dispatch was notified of a crash in Evergreen Township at the corner of Dock Lake Road and CTH A at approximately 8:15 p.m., Thursday, June 28. Washburn County deputies, the Wisconsin State Patrol, Spooner Fire and North

A m b u l a n c e responded.

Preliminary investigation indicates that a 1993 Dodge Intrepid, driven by a14-yearold female minor, failed to stop at the stop sign at Dock Lake Road and The A. CTH

Mary Seinko

County earns high interest on checking account Finance approves more money for museum roof

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Higher interest rates are benefiting Polk County.

County Treasurer Amanda Nissen told the county finance committee last Wednesday, June 27, that the county is now earning 5.34 percent on its checking account and has earned interest of $265,654 through May 31. The county had earned $164,539 through the same period in 2006. The present interest rate is more than double the rate paid as recently as 2004. Interest money goes into the county’s general revenue fund.

The committee also approved adding $16,724 to the funding to reroof the county museum in Balsam Lake. The county had allocated $36,850 to put new shingles on the roof of the old county courthouse. Once the work started this summer, the contractor discovered that

the roof now has three layers of shingles, including the original slate shingles. He told the property committee in early June that all the old layers should be removed before a new roof is installed. The additional funds will come from the county’s contingency fund.

The human services board has submitted a resolution requesting the use in 2007 of $242,000 in funds budgeted to the HS department in 2006 but not spent last year. The amount is about half of the department’s savings from last year.

The funds would be used to fund the new Mental Health and Chemical Dependency Coordinator position ($42,000), fund a spending overage in youth aids for 2006 ($14,000), and establish a risk reserve account ($185,000).

The finance committee passed a motion recommending that the county board defeat the resolution because the books for 2006 are now closed and the funding is not available.

Roadwork planned for Webster WEBSTER – Crack sealing is already under way on east Apple Street in Webster. Additional roads that the village hopes to work on are Perch Avenue, east Fir Street, Sturgeon, Cedar, Birch and the new part of Main Street. East Apple will be seal coated.

The rest of the roads will be crack

sealed. The village is unsure if they have the funds to work on all the roads this year but will do what they can. The village has hired Burnett County Highway Department to do the roadwork. – Sherill Summer

The Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

Intrepid struck a 1995 Buick eastbound on CTH A driven by Mary Sienko, 55, Spooner. The Washburn County Coroner Karen Baker pronounced Sienko dead at the scene. She was the only occupant of her vehicle.

Two other minors were in the Intrepid. A 15-year-old female, was transported to the Spooner hospital and then airlifted to St. Mary’s in Duluth, Minn. The other male passenger was treated and released from the

Spooner hospital. The minor female driver was treated and released from the Spooner hospital.

No other information was released pending the completion of the investigation by the Washburn County Sheriff’s Office and the Wisconsin State Patrol. — from the Washburn County Sheriff’s Office

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - JULY 3, 2007

Past Bremer Bank board members took part in the ground-breaking ceremony from L to R: Gene Early, Larry Pederson, Dan Draxler, Gil Ahlgren, Glenn Meier and Doug Harlander.

– Photos submitted

A drawing of the Bremer Bank being built in Danbury.

The bank is the first of a smalltown bank prototype that will be built throughout the Bremer service area.

Ground breaking for new Bremer Bank in Danbury DANBURY – The ground breaking for the new Bremer Bank in Danbury was last Tuesday, June 26. The Danbury Lions Club, business community, past and present board members, Bremer employees and the CEO of Wisconsin were on hand for the event. When complete, the approximately 2500 squarefoot bank will have three drive-up windows and will house insurance, investment and banking services. The new location will be near the intersection of Hwys. 35/77, next to Wayne’s Foods Plus. The bank is expected to be complete in November.

The ground breaking was an opportunity to recount some of the history of the bank, especially its controversial beginnings when the bank’s location in Danbury was contested. At that time there was a requirement that all branch banks must be less than 25 miles apart.

It is 26 highway miles between Frederic and Danbury, and a competing Burnett County bank filed a complaint.

Danbury at the time had no bank, and Bremer really wanted to have a branch in Danbury. Determined to proceed, bank officials figured out a way to skirt the requirement by measuring the dis-

tance between Frederic and Danbury with nautical miles from an airplane. It was discovered that Frederic and Danbury are only a little over 24 nautical miles apart. Bank officials traveled all the way to Madison to state their case, and the Danbury branch was allowed. The bank opened in its current location in 1976.

At that time it was called Farmers State Bank. Other names to the bank ever the years were First American Bank and First American Bank Wisconsin before changing to its current name of Bremer. The bank is noted for its large

service area. The next bank north of Danbury is in Superior, and many travel from a long distance to bank in Danbury.

Bremer has long had plans to expand in Danbury. The land that they are building on was purchased 20 years ago, but the building plans were postponed for a time until Danbury’s planned water and sewer project were under way. Bremer will unveil its smalltown prototype for small-town banks in Danbury. Six to 10 similar banks will be built throughout Wisconsin. – Sherill Summer

Donation/from page 1

Some present bank employees joined in the ground-breaking ceremonies.

Shown (L to R) are Lassie Helin, Michelle Hophan, April Highstrom and Dan Draxler.

world, from the Butler Museum of American Painting to II Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome. His paintings are on regular display at the George Krevsky Gallery in San Francisco.

Ferlinghetti has won numerous awards, among them was being named San Francisco’s Poet Laureate in 1998.

In 2003, he was awarded the Robert Frost Memorial Medal, the Author’s Guild Lifetime Achievement Award, and he was elected to the prestigious American Academy of Arts and Letters.

Ferlinghetti is associated with the international Fluxus movement in art and his paintings currently sell from $5,000 to $60,000.

The artwork dedicated by Ferlinghetti is entitled “R(e)volutionary Woman” is a small ink and acrylic of a female face. The piece was obtained through correspondence with Ferlinghetti by St. Croix Falls city administrator Ed Emerson. Ferlinghetti was impressed with St. Croix Falls efforts to establish an arts district, with the stunningly beautiful River Spirit sculpture, (to be unveiled on Friday July 20), and with the nonprofit Festival Theatre.

Ferlinghetti has also long advocated for preservation of wild places and is impressed with city efforts at preserving nearly 700 acres of river bluff and wildlands.

One statement of Ferlinghetti’s may explain the meaning behind the gift to St. Croix Falls and its title: “What we have here is somewhat visionary, vaguely revolutionary, certainly not insurgent…Revolution in

The artwork dedicated by Ferlinghetti is entitled “R(e)volutionary Woman.” It is a small ink and acrylic of a female face.

America has dropped its R. We have evolved and that is exciting.”

The Ferlinghetti artwork will be on display through Wannigan Days at the Galleria di Marchese in downtown St. Croix Falls, beginning with the art opening kickoff event at 7 p.m. on July 19. The artwork will then be on permanent display at the St. Croix Festival Theatre with a formal dedication ceremony to be later announced. - submitted

‘Follow the Leader’

Ju ly 3, 2007 • 2nd Se c t i on B• Inter-Co unty Le a de r

Currents N O R T H E R N

THE LEADER’S COMMUNITY NEWS

SCF Library, theater garner national Big Read grant Grant covers three counties

by Julie Holmquist ST CROIX FALLS - A national program called The Big Read is coming to the upper St. Croix Valley, thanks to the St. Croix Falls Public Library and St. Croix Festival Theatre.

This area is one of only four locations in Wisconsin to receive the National Endowment of the Arts grant, and one of 117 nationwide to receive funding for the program.

“We are extremely excited to be chosen to carry out this national project,” said Amy Klein, Festival Theatre director of arts education.

The awards were granted June 25 in Washington, D.C. On Friday, several dignitaries celebrated the honor at a press conference in front of the Festival Theatre and St. Croix Falls Library building.

The Big Read, launched nationally in 2006 by the NEA, in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest, encourages literary reading by asking communities to come together to read and discuss a single book.

The organizations selected to participate in the Big Read will receive grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 to promote and carry out community-based programs.

The Big Read in the Upper St. Croix Valley will take place Sept. 7 through Oct.15 and will focus on a Willa Cather novel, “My Antonia.”

“Starting in September, we’ll celebrate our Wisconsin prairies and our immigrant heritage in the most enjoyable of ways – by reading a very worthwhile book together,” Klein said.

The Big Read will include three special events, programs in schools and book club discussion groups.

“The whole point of the program is to help people realize how powerful literature is, and how important it is to our lives,” Klein said.

Modeled on successful one book, one community programs, The Big Read was created to address the national decline in literary reading as documented in the NEA’s 2004 landmark survey “Reading at Risk: A Survey of Literary Reading in America.” The survey showed that less than half the American adult population now reads literature.

The Big Read addresses a national problem by reaching people even in rural areas like the upper St. Croix Valley.

“It’s a job libraries take seriously - getting books into the hands of people for enjoyment and enrichment,” said Sarah Adams, St. Croix Falls Library director.

The Big Read is a joint effort of 15 other libraries in the area, Adams said, and each library will have extra copies of the book for circulation. Grant funding will also allow 20 free copies for each community. Big Read planners hope to have “stacks” of books available in the communities in laundromats, restaurants and other public places in Polk, Burnett and Chisago counties.

“It will be read and release,” Klein said. “If you pick up a book, read it, and set it down again for someone else.”

Klein and Danette Olsen, Festival Theatre executive director, just returned

Dignitaries celebrated The Big Read grant for Polk, Burnett and Chisago counties at a Friday gathering. (L to R) Wisconsin State Rep. Ann Hraychuck, Amy Klein and Danette Olsen of the Festival Theatre, St. Croix Public Library Director Sarah Adams, Minnesota State Rep. Jeremy Kalin, literary consultant Dr. Carolyn Wedin and St. Croix Falls Mayor Brad Foss. – Photo submitted from the national Big Read orientation in Minneapolis. Klein said she was surprised to see people from much larger cities at the event.

“There were people there from Berkeley, Calif., Detroit Public Library and Puerto Rico,” Klein said. “We were definitely the most rural community there.”

The Big Read for the Upper St. Croix Valley covers Polk and Burnett counties as well as Chisago County in Minnesota.

That area includes 70 municipalities and townships and 150,000 people.

“It’s an awesome thing that we get to do this,” Klein noted.

Wisconsin State Rep. Ann Hraychuck and Minnesota State Rep. Jeremy Kalin agreed, and congratulated the project planners for obtaining the grant.

“We’re fortunate to live in an area where people care enough to promote literature and education,” Hraychuck said.

Kalin noted that reading the book on both sides of the river would foster relationships.

“This is a great opportunity to reach across boundaries,” he said. “Reading is the best escape. You get to experience another person’s reality, another person’s perspective. Reading is not about the ability to read a sign or a letter, but being thoughtful about what those words mean.”

St. Croix Mayor Brad Foss was also at the event and noted how much can be learned from literature about the human condition and those who came before us.

Project planners were originally going to choose “To Kill A Mockingbird,” but Carolyn Wedin persuaded them to choose “My Antonia” instead.

“My Antonia” is set in Red Cloud, Neb., but the themes of the immigrant experience common to this area run throughout the book, say the project planners.

“We chose it because of the way “My Antonia” could resonate with people here,” Klein said.

Festival Theatre had hoped to also stage a play version of The Big Read selection, but the only “My Antonia” theater piece was “awful,” Olsen said. “It was just too hard to produce, so we jettisoned that idea, but our role will be to

help support and host events and taken part in the reader’s theater.

“We think this is a worthwhile model and we’re pleased to be part of it,” she said.

Big Read events begin soon; community asked to join in

by Julie Holmquist ST. CROIX FALLS - Big Read events begin with workshops for people wishing to lead book discussion groups in the community. The first training session is Tuesday, July 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. and will be a general training in how to lead a discussion group.

The second workshop will be Tuesday, Aug. 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. and will focus specifically on “My Antonia.”

Tuition credit for teachers is available for a small cost, otherwise the workshops, held at the St. Croix Falls Public Library, are free. Literary scholar Carolyn Wedin will lead the training sessions. Reading group leaders are needed from all communities in Polk, Burnett and Chisago counties.

The official Big Read events begin Sept. 8, with a Prairie Festival kickoff at Overlook Park in St. Croix Falls. People will be able to get a Big Read Kit at the event, listen to storytellers dressed in period costumes, take shuttles to tours of restored prairies, enjoy music and children’s folk art activities as well as hear an overview of the program.

On Oct. 6, a Homesteader’s Picnic will take place at D.D. Kennedy County Park near Balsam Lake. People will be able to tour the restored prairie there, view heritage displays, watch in-

terpreters dressed in period costumes, enjoy dancing to the folk music of Duck for the Oyster and eat pies.

The final event on Oct. 14 will be a Reader’s Theatre/Multidisciplinary Panel Discussion at Festival Theatre.

Selections of “My Antonia” will be performed. The panel will be composed of a literary commentator, prairie specialist and an immigration scholar. Winning essays written by high school students will also be read at this event.

Educators are invited to participate in a variety of ways, such as classroomready companion activities, an essay contest, folk dance artist-in-residence, Youth Prairie classroom art project, and a wide variety of community service opportunities.

For a complete list of communities participating in The Big Read, a list of The Big Read novels, program application guidelines, or more information on the program, visit the Web site www.neabigread.org. Contact Amy Klein at 715-483-3387 for more information on events, educational activities, to become a reading group leader, or to become involved with The Big Read in the upper St. Croix Valley. The St. Croix Valley project involves several partner organizations and has room for others to come aboard.

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Devils Lake Boat Parade â&#x20AC;˘ 2007 The Devils Lake Boat Parade was held Saturday, June 30. Twelve boats competed for best decorated watercraft. The judges were Nancy Leafgren, Karen and Larry Norman, Ann Millenbernd and Mary Bade.

The Patriotic Eagle Pontoon, decorated by the Tom and Sue Frey family, received firstplace honors.

Photos by Jake Hunter

Honorable mention was awarded to the Jacobsen family, who decorated the Redneck Yacht Club pontoon.

The third-place award went to the Devilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pontoon, decorated by MerchantFair family.

The Devils Lake Association Pontoon, decorated by the Buck Hastings family, received second place.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

My Garden

by Delores Sandberg The sun sends down its welcomed rays Reflecting warmly on my face.

It summons earth to come alive Assuring us spring will arrive.

I check my garden, every row To see what did and did not grow When through the dirt what do I see?

Some rhubarb peering back at me.

Those curly leaves, dark red and green Are always first upon the scene.

And later when the flowers bloom I’ll pick a few for every room.

I’ll place them in a proper vase.

They’ll put a smile upon my face.

The iris, daisies, lilies, all Will keep me entertained ‘til fall When slowly all will fall asleep To rest beneath the snow so deep.

Then later spring will visit earth And grant my garden plants rebirth When once again I hope to see Some rhubarb looking back at me.

Reminding me who holds the key To all the miracles I see.

Confirming God is in command.

How can I not but love this land?

Seasons

by Delores Sandberg Spring paints a scene with nature’s brush Of trees and bushes, green and lush.

Then summer paints its flower beds In purples, yellows, pinks, and reds.

When autumn takes the brush in hand It’s red and gold throughout the land And winter works both day and night To paint its canvas sparkling white.

I cannot say which season’s best When earth’s awake or when at rest.

Writer’s Corner

Come summer, winter, spring, or fall Each one’s unique. I love them all.

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

Centuria Memory Days has community fair CENTURIA – This year Centuria Memory Days will have a small community fair where people from the community may exhibit a variety of items to show off their talents on Saturday, July 7.

People may enter in as many categories as they want, with one item per category per exhibitor. Participation ribbons will be awarded to each exhibitor.

There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons presented in each category with one Best of Show in each category.

There is no entry fee, and it is open to

anyone, any age. All exhibits per category will be judged together by qualified judges who are volunteering their time.

Categories for entires are: animal exhibits - goats, market lambs, and dairy heifers. plant exhibits - vegetable box (3-5 types of vegetables in display) and flowers (3 blossoms). Craft exhibits woodworking, quilts, pie, bread, painting, photography.

Plant and craft exhibits can be brought to display at the Ernies Building at the west end of Main Street, the old bowling

alley, beginning at 8 a.m. for check in.

Judging of the exhibits will be between noon to 1 p.m., we ask that exhibits be on display until 6pm.

Animals will be brought in to the west end of Main Street, where panels will be up for judging rings. Animals will be tied to their trailers, as pens or stalls will not be provided. Animals can begin coming in to check in at 8 a.m., judging will begin at 10 a.m. with the goats, followed by the lambs and finally the dairy heifers. There will be water provided

for the animals to drink, limited water for washing of animals. There will not be a showmanship class this year, hopefully, by next year the show will be bigger and better. The community fair is a means for 4-H and FFA members, or anyone else to hone their skills before the county fair.

The ribbons are being sponsored by the Unity Area FFA Alumni and the Unity Lions Club.

Questions please contact Jeanne at 715553-1286. – submitted

Wannigan Days set for July 19 - 22 ST. CROIX FALLS/TAYLORS FALLS–The annual Wannigan Days celebration in St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls will be here in a couple of weeks.

Several new events have been added this year including the unveiling of the River Spirit Sculpture at the scenic overlook, a Tug-of-War across the St. Croix River, and the 100th birthday of the hydroelectric dam.

The festivities begin Thursday, July 19, with hydroelectric dam tours from 1 to 5 p.m. The annual talent show with takes place at 6:30 p.m. at the scenic Overlook Deck awarding $800 in prize money. To enter call 715-483-3913.

Friday, July 20, at 5 p.m., the River

Spirit Sculpture will be unveiled at the overlook. A new Miss St. Croix Falls and Little Miss St. Croix Falls will be selected at the queen pageant at St. Croix Falls High School Friday evening beginning at 7 p.m.

At 8:30 p.m. a Dance on the Deck event with a bluegrass band will take place at the overlook.

Saturday, July 21, events begin at the National Park Service Headquarters featuring kids games and an open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Main Street attractions including an arts and crafts fair and sidewalk sales from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., are taking place as well. A fiddle contest will be at St. Croix Festival Theatre from

noon to 2 p.m.

In Taylors Falls, a dedication at 1 p.m. of the Timberframe Bridge will take place.

The Centennial birthday of the dam will take place at 2 p.m. with a party and exhibit followed by dam tours from 2 to 3 p.m. At the Lions Parks in St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls, pontoon rides will be given from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and a Tug-of-War will take place at 2 p.m., in which members of both cities’ fire departments, the athletic department of St. Croix Falls and Chisago Lakes schools and the elected officials of both cities will be participating.

The grand parade begins at 6 p.m. be-

ginning in St. Croix Falls and ending in Taylors Falls. A family-friendly dance on the overlook in St. Croix Falls by Nattering Nabobs is from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by music from the band Breezy Bay Boys from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Music is at Romaynes in Taylors Falls from 8:30 to close by the band Lost Boys.

Sunday, July 22, starts with a pancake breakfast from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. by the St. Croix Falls Fire Department, and the day wraps up with a community dance on the overlook from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. by Pop Wagner and Friends. – from the St. Croix Falls Chamber of Commerce

Polk County tractor certification program POLK COUNTY – Youth from throughout Polk County recently participated in the Wisconsin Safe Operation of Tractor and Machinery training program at the fairgrounds in St. Croix Falls.

The training, done cooperatively with the agriculture education instructors from the schools throughout the county and the University of Wisconsin-Extension, was a 24-hour course of lecture, discussion, practical driving experience and demonstrations. Guest speakers included the Unity Area Ambulance Service with Jason Anderson and Mike Larson, also a farm accident victim, Anita Harr, all of whom shared their job responsibilities and gave advice as to what to do if an accident should occur.

Students participating were: AmeryJordan Jensen, Ethan Dado, Bethany Dado; Unity- Zak Turner; Frederic- Ryan Wylie; Clear Lake- Mikayla Nordby, Brandon Nelson, Tony Ninke, Nathan Fouks, Joe Lemons, Brett Magnuson, Polk County youth were recently certified through the Wisconsin Safe Operation of Tractor and Machinery training Brandon Nickell, Mitchell Sullwold; Osceola- Brandon Struemke, Brandon program at the fairgrounds in St. Croix Falls. Area agriculture educators and the UW-Extension office provided the 24Burch, Kelly, Belisle, Joel Neidermire; hour instruction for the certification process. – Photo submitted and St. Croix Falls- Branson Loiselle.

Staff assisting included: Ag instruc- Paul Jacupkiak- Osceola; Brian Waltz- St. Ryan Sterry, Andi Cooper and Chuck Baribeau Implement, Greene Implement tors - Derek Mayer-Amery, Tim Wyss- Croix Falls; Jeanne Alling- Unity; and the Prissel. and Fleet Supply. – submitted Clear Lake; Tom Wesle- Frederic/Luck; University of Wisconsin Extension with Tractors and trailers were provided by

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

River Road Ramblings

collected by Russ Hanson

Round Lake Farmers Club

by Stanley Selin The Round Lake Farmers Club was organized as a service organization for farmers in 1916 through the efforts of George Briggs, who was then the county agent. In the first years, the club served its members by providing twine and grass seed. It was instrumental in securing a potato and feed warehouse in Frederic, which later became the Farmers Equity Exchange. Through the years, club members regularily exhibited their produce at the local fairs in Grantsburg and Webster. The club always endeavored to be of assistance to those in need.

In November of 1941, the Farmers Club celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Round Lake School with a banquet

The Round Lake Farmers Club 25th Anniversary Banquet in November of 1941. It was held at the Round Lake School.

Mr. Briggs was well-known one. throughout the region. He traveled over a million miles in 38 years as an extension agronomist advising farmers.

He was a gifted speaker and gained a reputation of being the “Will Rogers of Wisconsin.”

George Briggs (1884-1970). He was a professor of agronomy at the University of Wisconsin. He was very popular with the farmers and always in demand as a speaker at agricultural gatherings. - All photos courtesy of Jean Dahlberg Sampson

The waitresses who served the food at the 25th-anniversary banquet. (L to R): Doris Hane, Ruby Wedin, Mabel Fisk, Lucille Fisk, Joan Kingsley, Jean Dahlberg and Shirley Biederman. and program. The club’s 19 presidents were honored on the table’s centerpiece of a silver disk encircled by 19 turkeys, each one bearing the name and dates that each president had served.

The presidents are listed as follows: M. S. Watt, 1916-1918 Frank Kingsley, 1918-1919 Enoch Anderson, 1919-1920 Sigfred Hane, 1920-1921 William Norton, 1921-1922 Conrad Peterson, 1922-1923 Reubin Wedin, 1923-1924 Sam Lindquist, 1924-1925 Edith Melin, 1925-1926 Arnold Biederman, 1926-1927 Axel Melin, 1927-1928 Walter Thompson, 1929-1930

Ed Mattson, 1930-1931 Ed Knauber, 1930-1933 Walter Erickson, 1933-1934 Algot Sjoberg, 1934-1936 Lee Kingsley, 1936-1937 Reubin Wedin, 1937-1938 Arnold Biederman, 1938-1940 Zatha Fisk, 1940About 65 people were in attendance to enjoy the dinner and program. Alton Jensen played a piano selection and Helge Lindberg provided an accordion solo. A talk was given by Burnett County agent Fred Evert. Professor George “Soybean” Briggs showed slides of his days as Burnett County agent in his old Model T. Mrs. Briggs also gave a monologue which delighted every-

The ladies who prepared the food at the 25th-anniversary banquet. (L to R): Anna Hane, Zatha Fisk, Anna Lindberg, Ruth Biederman, Mabel Kingsley, Elsie Hane and Edith Melin.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

If God Had Voice Mail

Most of us have now learned to live with voice mail as a necessary part of our lives. Have you ever wondered what it would be like if God decided to install voice mail? Imagine praying and hearing the following: Thank you for calling heaven.

For English, press 1 For Spanish, press 2 Bernice For all other languages, Abrahamzon press 3 Please select one of the following options: Press 1 for request Press 2 for thanksgiving Press 3 for complaints Press 4 for all others I am sorry, all our angels and saints are busy helping other sinners right now.

However, your prayer is important to us, and we will answer it in the order it was received. Please stay on the line.

If you would like to speak to: God, press 1 Jesus, press 2 Holy Spirit, press 3 To find a loved one that has been assigned to heaven press 5, then enter their Social Security number, followed by the pound sign. (If you receive a negative response, please hang up and dial area code 666.)

For reservations to heaven, please enter JOHN, followed by the numbers 316.

For answers to nagging questions about dinosaurs, life and other plants, please wait until you arrive in heaven for the specifics.

Our computers show that you have already been prayed for today, please hang up and call again tomorrow.

The office is now closed for the weekend, to observe a religious holiday. If you are calling after hours and need emergency assistance, please contact your local pastor. Thank you and have a heavenly day. – Borrowed from a church newsletter.

BEHIND THE

SIGNPOST

For cat lovers Excerpts from a Cat’s Daily Diary: Day 683 of my captivity: My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the floor.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike

fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a “good little hunter” I am. The audacity! There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight.

I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of allergies. I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow, but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularyly released, and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded! The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicating with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. The captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe, for now.

Money talks A big silver dollar and a little brown cent Rolling along, together they went, Rolling along the smooth sidewalk, When the dollar remarked, (for the dollar can talk): “You poor little cent, you cheap little mite, I’m bigger and more than two times as bright.

I’m worth more than you a hundred fold, And written on me in letters so bold, Is the motto taken from the pious creed, ‘In God We Trust’ for all to read.”

Yes, I know,” said the cent, “I’m a cheap little mite.

And I know I’m not big or as good or as bright; And yet,” said the cent with a meek little sign, “You don’t get to church half as often as I.” –Anonymous From Morning Glory (Note: You can tell a senior citizen from a young adult, a senior citizen will stoop to pick up a penny on the road or sidewalk. “A penny saved is a penny earned.” You’ve heard the expression “a pretty penny.” It might well be the penny on its way to church, and when those pennies stick together, it’s surprising what they can do.

Until next week, Bernice Meanwhile, Happy Fourth of July!

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Five inches of rain in five days!-Three Frederic men, Robert Clifton (bookkeeper at the Frederic Auto Co.), Alvin Paulsen and Tom Funne left for two weeks National Guard camp at Camp McCoy.-An auction was announced for June 29 for a 7-room house and 4 lots in Frederic (Wallace Staples, owner) with Harold “Sonny” Nelson, auctioneer.-Specials at Route’s Super Market included hamburger at 2 lbs. for 65¢, Pillsbury Angel Food Cake mix at 39¢ pkg., and lard at 3 lbs. at 55¢.-Old-timers gathered at the Siren gym for the Settlers Picnic on June 18. It was supposed to be held outside but weather was cold and rainy.-The grand opening was held June 21 at Johnny’s Bar at Milltown.-The Harry Ekland auction was held June 22 at Luck.-The film “Hollywood or Bust” starring Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin was playing at both the Siren Theatre and the Webb Theatre in Webster.-The film “Mutiny on the Bounty” was playing at the Frederic Theatre starring Clark Gable and Chas Laughton.Rainfall in June set a new all-time record.-Postal rates would increase July 1 according to Frederic Postmaster Art Peters, although letters would remain at 3¢ and postcards at 2¢.-Mr. and Mrs. Gorden Walsten celebrated their silver wedding at their home in Atlas with an open house on June 30.-Swimming school would run July 8 – 19 with classes held at the Able Jensen Beach on the south side of Ward Lake.

40 Years Ago Pastor Gary Park accepted a call to Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Frederic.-Two former Frederic students, Duane and Elaine Jensen planned to teach Eskimos near Fairbanks, Alaska.-Open house was held June 25 for the silver anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Orval Polsfus at their home near Lorain.-A lawn breakfast was held June 22 on the Wallace Early lawn on Lake Ave. in Frederic. It was sponsored by the Ruth Circle of St. Luke’s Methodist Church, Frederic.-Consolidated Lumber Co., located in seven area villages, had patio blocks for sale at 16¢ each.-Specials at Route’s Super Market included 3 doz. oranges for 98¢, ground beef at 2 lbs. for 89¢ and cube steak at 69¢ lb.-Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included sugar at 10 lbs. for 88¢, Campbell’s soups at 6 for $1 and cataloupe at 4 for 79¢.-Jill Hanson of Lewis would go to Badger Girls State and Paul Annett would go to Badger Boys State.Bethany Lutheran Church hosted the Jares Brown Ordination Rite on June 25.-Sale or possession of firecrackers was a violation of the law.-Glenn Shearman was the new administrator at the Siren school following the drowning death of Earl O. Peterson.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included Velveeta cheese at 95¢ for a 2-lb. box, Hills coffee at 2 lbs. for $1.19 and White Rose potatoes at 10 lbs. for 49¢.-Obituaries included Nels Simensen, Annie Falk, Esther Lindh, Mary Krumm and Frank Kasabin.

20 Years Ago

Those were the good old days Interfaith Caregivers host concert CENTURIA - You and yours are invited to come and listen to some fabulous old-time music as Marian Antonson of Interfaith Caregivers hosts this delightful concert for the public. Please join us Saturday, July 7, at 7 p.m. at Fristad Lutheran Church in Centuria for this Memory Days Musical. Linda Iwasko is the concert director and there will be a variety of local performers on hand for this delightful evening of music.

After the concert, ice cream and cookies will be served

for those who would like to stay and visit with other guests and musicians for some fellowship time.

A freewill donation will be taken and a gift to Interfaith Caregivers will be matched by 50 percent of additional supplemental funding provided by Polk-Burnett Chapter of Thrivent. Through donations, volunteers put their faith in action by helping senior citizens and disabled individuals maintain an independent lifestyle along with the ability to stay in their homes within their locale.

Come and join in the fun. Bring your family and friends to share the good old days musical extravaganza! Interfaith Caregivers can be contacted at 715483-9263. - submitted

Fairest of the Fair contestants announced POLK COUNTY - Theresa Piemonte, the 2006 Polk County Fairest of the Fair, will soon be handing over her title to one of six 2007 contestants: Lisa Dippery Comstock, Jessica Fouks - Deer Park, Tina Larson Milltown, Carole Peper - Centuria, Samantha Suckut Amery and Katherine Warner - Clear Lake. This year’s coronation is scheduled for Sunday, July 29, at noon in the Expo Tent on the Polk County Fairgrounds in St. Croix Falls.

The winner will represent the Polk County Fair at area events in Polk County beginning in July 2007 until the 2008 winner is named. She will also participate in the State Fairest of the Fair Contest at the Wisconson Association of Fairs’ convention in Green Bay in January 2008. The winner of the state contest be-

comes a full-time 2008 summer employee of the Public Relations Department of the Wisconsin State Fair.

All contestants will receive a plaque and there will be cash prizes for the winner and runner-up. The contestants will select a Miss Congeniality who will receive a special memento.

Sponsors of the 2007 Fairest of the Fair contest include Bernick’s, Bremer Bank, Cain/Fennern Jewelery.

Eagle Valley Bank, Cahill Studios of Photography, Goldstar Cooperative & Precision Ag Services, Rural American Bank, S & C banks, The Lockerroom, WESTconsin Credit Union, and the Polk County Fair Society.

For more information contact Sid Bjorkman at 715268-2446. - submitted

Special introductory coupon offers were printed for A & W Cream Soda.-Barbara Faye Nelson was Miss Teen Wisconsin-U.S.A.-Jer-On Dairy congratulated the Fossum Cabinets Ladies Bowling Team on winning first place.-Ramsey Burn Center, Courage Center started a special camp for children. It was held near Itasca State Park near Lake George.-Frederic students who won business awards included Dawn Lindberg, Debbie Baker, John Axelson, Allan Hayman and Eric Pelle.-Just in time for graduation parties, plastic forks were $2.29 for a pkg. of 100.-The flag of Learning and Liberty was flying at the Frederic High School. It was first raised on July 14, 1985, over the capitols of all 50 states and the District of Columbia.-A baby shower was given May 9, for Donna (Mork) Knoop at the Diane Foote residence in Siren.-A St. Croix Falls man, Bruce Yunker, was burned in a gas explosion when a house filled with LP gas fumes ignited.-Webster prom royalty included Louie Moen and Sheila Rachner.-Two Siren women, Jeanette Olson and Judy Keicker, promoted child passenger safety, promoting infant car seat rental programs.-County unemployment dropped but with no increase in job holders.-A computer system was proposed for Aging Programs.-Bonnie Peterson reported Wood Creek 4-H news.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Webster Senior Center Deb Korhonen and sister, Judy Baker, attended the graduation party for Judy’s grandson, Mitch Frye, in Pattison Park over the weekend. Besides touring the park and visiting the beautiful falls, family and friends played horseshoe, Polish horseshoe, volleyball, swimming and then enjoyed a delicious lunch.

There was not much happening at the center on Monday other than the congregate diners getting together for lunch. Duane and Muriel Todd joined the group for lunch, and Gladys Packer was back after being gone for several days last week.

The Ravishing Rubies Red Hat Society met for lunch on Tuesday afternoon at the Tracks Restaurant, Spooner, with 21 ladies attending. We welcomed Gladys Beers’ sister, Rose Ann Buck, from Watseka, Ill., Gladys’ daughter, Darlene Rogers, from Menasha, and Helen Sellman’s daughter, Dee Sellman, from the Twin Cities area, and Margel Ruck’s mother, Olive Gehrke from Balsam Lake, as visitors. After singing “Happy Birthday” to Delores Farr and Mary Lou Peterfeso, they were both given a birthday gift and the traveling purple birthday hat was given to Mert Kisselburg to wear for her birthday in July.

Queen Mother Mary Klar read items from “You’re Getting Older When You Can’t Remember” from her “Over the Next Hill and Still Rolling” book. A number of amusing jokes were read by Mert Kisselburg, Marlene Kufalk and Vice Queen Jeanette Olson. VQ Jeanette had everyone play a game of everyone listing 8 things they knew about QM Mary, and Mert Kisselburg, Marlene Kufalk and Jane Tomnitz all won prizes. Door prize winners were Mary Lou Peterfeso, Darlene Rogers and Marlene Kufalk. We all gave a hearty round of applause to Chef Dan and Waitress Deb for the delicious food and service, and all decided it was a place they would like to eat at again. The next luncheon will be held on Tuesday, July 31, with the place to be announced in this column at a later date.

Twenty dime bingo players had a great time on Wednesday afternoon and almost everyone stayed to play the third set of games. Arvilla Voltattorni furnished an apple bar dessert in addition to a frosted poppy seed cake.

Olive Gerhke joined the group of players in addition to Rose Ann Buck and Darlene Rogers.

Thursday evening with its cooler temperature was a beautiful time for the Senior Citizen Dining at Five Dinner.

Twenty-eight diners enjoyed Deb’s Italian spaghetti with garlic bread, coleslaw, bread and butter pickles, milk and chocolate cake. I saw more than one person having trouble getting up from the table after eating the whole thing.

After cleanup, Carol Berglind joined Theresa Gloege, Margel Ruck, Joyce Smith, Mert Kisselburg, Jane

320-242-3933

Wardean and me in some “not-so-serious” card playing.

We would rather laugh, joke and have fun over all our goof-ups, than be called “serious” card players. Bruce Behrens, Harold Peterson and Sam Williamson played pool for a while and then were joined by Ken Hayes, Pat O’Brien and Dave Wardean.

Deb served peach upside-down cake on Friday to celebrate the June birthdays: Jane Wardean, Edna Canfield, Delores Farr, Harold Miehle and Jean Fahland. Happy birthday to all!

Did you mark your calendar for the annual Burnett County senior citizen picnic at Siren Crooked Lake Park on Wednesday, July 18, at noon? Be sure to register in advance at your own senior site for this.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Maury Heyer who passed away recently.

Our get-well wishes and prayers continue to go out to Don Carlson; Norma Martin; and Helmi Larson and Elaine Burton both of whom are recovering from hip surgery.

In today’s fast-paced world, many people with day planners, pagers and cell phones are pushing themselves to the limit. Parents, sometimes with furrowed brows and clenched fists, race from soccer fields to school meetings to piano lessons, grabbing meals on the run and collapsing into bed at night, exhausted. Does this sound like you, or someone you know? We often put ourselves under enormous pressure to succeed and to experience everything we possibly can. When we don’t, we can’t forgive ourselves for failing to measure up to our own expectations. This is not the way God wants us to live. When we examine God’s creation we see a simple pattern. First was the work of making the universe, everything from atoms to radishes to cats and dogs to man. Then came enjoyment – God saw that “it was very good,” (Genesis 1:31). Then came the rest. He rested, not because he was weary but because he was satisfied with the completion of a job well done. Maybe your hectic schedule and intense lifestyle have robbed you of your sense of humor, peace, joy and satisfaction in life. If so, follow God’s pattern of work, enjoyment and rest. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying life can be. “An efficiency expert is a man who walks in his sleep so he can rest and get his exercise at the same time!” “When we take time for fun and play, for rest along life’s busy way, and when we pause to kneel and pray, we are renewed from day to day.”- Egner. “God rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done.”-Genesis 2:2. See you at the center!

Cloverton - Markville

All of us seniors out here in the little township of Arna and New Dosey who are members of the East Pine County Wanderers hope that we will be the winner of the door prize that is provided by Rosie and Jim Yaekel each summer. This prize is always an invitation to a homecooked meal prepared by Rosie. She is an excellent cook and her desserts are absolutely scrumptious!

Esther Vink won this year, so she and Jim will be going to the Yaekel summer cabin shortly for a delicious meal and great company.

Weekender Mary Mosser from West St. Paul, is up for summer again. In addition to raising some eating chickens, she is planning a couple of mini bus trips.

A couple more graduation parties to mention. Tom Ellwein graduated from East Central High School and his parents, Pam and Pete, gave him a wonderful party. Many people from our area were able to attend and enjoy the pig and turkey roast. Evening activities included a barn dance and karaoke. Good luck with your future plans, Tom. Shirley and Jerry Blokzyl went to Chisago City for the graduation party for Brittany Lofgren, daughter of good friends of theirs.

Aside from her annual physical and some shopping in Duluth, Minn., Mary and Frank Schaaf have been picking berries. One day saw them at High Hopes Berry Farm for strawberries and another day had them at Bumble Berry Farm for raspberries.

Everyone out here knows how faithfully Don Mishler

Mary Klar

Fran Levings

takes his morning walk each day. Seldom does he miss his long jaunt down McDermott Creek Road. The other day, however, a black bear caused him to rethink his morning excursion, when it not only would not be scared off by the racket Don made, but it stood up on its hind legs and kept looking at Don. Don decided for one time to just turn around and head back home.

Jim Vink spent some time in the emergency room at Pine Medical Center in Sandstone, Minn., recently when a piece of ham, which had lodged in his esophagus, could not be dislodged without assistance.

Shirley and Jerry also stopped to visit with Ida Licht in a care center in Hugo, Minn., awhile back. They report that she is happy and busy.

One day last week was a marathon medical day for Jan Streiff with her going to three different clinics in the Cities.

These were appointments with her neurologist, her primary care physician and for a series of tests. While down there, she had lunch with her former boss from Target.

Jan can now go online with her medical case number and access all of the results of tests she has had each day. Since Jan is on chemotherapy again, hugs are now off limit for awhile. Her immune system goes down when she’s on chemo.

Dave spent a day in Port Wing last week meeting with an art patron from the Chicago area and I spent a day in Ashland visiting my son Chuck and his family. Bob Brewster and Patty Koehler came to our home for dinner on Friday.

The fireworks were fun, wherever you are.

Luck Senior Center Shirley Lund

472-8285

Guess I was snoozing last week. I forget to write the news! I am, however, on the ball this week.

The center hasn’t been too busy the last two weeks. I think people are out tending their gardens (flower and vegetables) and keeping their lawns mowed. I am sure a lot of you are hoping for rain.

I have been busy making Amish Friendship bread (cinnamon, banana nut and one chocolate cake). I now have eight bags of starter. If any of you out there want some starter, just give me a call! After all, what are friends for?

Before I forget, thanks Kathy Mueller for writing the news for June 20 and also thanks for your glowing comment about me.

We had a nice turnout for our monthly potluck. Plenty of food and fellowship. I know everyone enjoyed Karoline White’s presentation and pictures of her trips to Nepal.

Many thanks, Karoline! We also celebrated June birthdays. Anne Marie James was the only one of our birthday members there. We sang “Happy Birthday” to her. She was 90 years young on June 15. Way to go Anne Marie!

We are now planning for Lucky Days and we are also asking for volunteers. Give me a call if you can help in any way – kitchen duty, pie donations, etc.

Remember, the center is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You don’t need to be a senior or a member, just drop in for coffee and fellowship.

Frederic Senior Center Ardyce Knauber Monday spades were played with the following winners: Ellis Erickson in first place, Ed Berdal in second place, Lillian Murphy in third place and Willis Williams in fourth place.

Wednesday pokeno played as always with an enjoyable group.

Thursday 500 player winners were: Lonnie Jones in first place, Lorraine Youngren in second place, Helen Severson in third place and Lester Johnson in fourth place.

Friday at 9:30 a.m. executive and trustee officers met.

Pokeno also was played by the group on Friday. Saturday share-a-lunch at noon with cards and bingo to follow.

We will celebrate the Fourth of July with a potluck dinner.

Cards and pokeno will be enjoyed after dinner.

Our July monthly meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. on July 6. Members urged to attend.

Happy Fourth of July!

A Waiting Child

Jessica Date of birth: June 25, 1997 Jessica is an adorable little girl looking for a forever family. Easily described as a people person, Jessica enjoys being out and about and meeting new people. Jessica is very smart and articulate, and she does very well in school.

Jessica really enjoys music, arts, crafts and shopping.

She is very much into the teen scene. She likes Bratz dolls, cell phones and iPods. Jessica needs a supportive forever family who will love her unconditionally.

For more information about Jessica, or other children waiting for adoptive homes, call Adoption Resources of Wisconsin, 800-762-8063, or visit the Web site at www.wiadopt.org.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Engagement

349-7249

Siren Senior Center

It has been a busy place at the center this week. On Tuesday, we had six tables of Dime-Bingo players and Wednesday 36 500-card players joined us.

Everyone driving by on Thursday afternoon had the pleasure of seeing hoards of people that came to Ruby’s Pantry, in our parking lot. We also had our usual fellows playing pool on Thursday afternoon and Friday 28 players came out for Spades.

Happy to report that Helmi Larson has been transferred from St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, Minn., to Capeside Cove in Siren. She will be residing there for the next few weeks so if you are out and about stop in and visit her or send her a card.

Shirley Holmes still hasn’t reported for duty at the Siren kitchen but word is that she is slowly on the mend and also plans on being here for the Dining at Five dinner on July 12. The menu for that evening is Chicken Cordon-Bleu, scalloped potatoes, vegetable, salad bar and apple crisp for dessert. The sign up sheet is out at the center so you may either call 715-349-2845 or stop in to make your reservation.

Everyone at the center offers their condolences to Al Carlson and family upon the passing of Ann. Ann was a great lady and contributed many hours volunteering for the Burnett County seniors. She will be sorely missed.

Get well wishes to Gerry Ramsdell, Betty Cullen, Marion Mike and Lorraine Quatmann and Mike and Lori Brown and Joyce McKinney.

Kurkowski would like to announce the engagement of Winners at 500 cards on Wednesday were Gerry Vogel, their daughter, Wendy Lynn Kurkowski, to Aaron DeAnn Becker, Sue Newberger, Neil Olson and Naomi

Quatmann/Sears

Thomas Sears, the son of Darrel and Renelle Sears.

An Oct. 19 wedding is planned. – submitted

349-2964

Engagement

Glover.

Spades winners on Friday were Barb Munger, Judy Bauerfeld, Gerry Vogel and Arvid Pearson.

Keep in mind that we play Dime-Bingo on Tuesday, 500 cards on Wednesday and Spades on Friday. All of the activities begin at 1 p.m. and everyone is welcome to participate.

Our senior monthly meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 17, beginning at 9:30 a.m. After the meeting we will celebrate the July birthdays with birthday cake. The only name that I have for a July birthday is Margaret Westlund.

I am sure there are others out there that we are unaware of, please join us for cake so we can help you celebrate.

On Wednesday, July 18, the Burnett County Senior Citizen picnic will be held at Crooked Lake Park at noon. You must sign up for this in advance with your respective centers so they may have a count on how many people to plan on. The cost is the same as the daily meal, $3.25 or your blue dinner ticket.

The foot clinic ladies will be here on July 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the cost for this is $20 and you must either call or reserve a time to make an appointment. Believe me, this is the best $20 ever spent, these gals do a wonderful job, your tootsies feel so good afterward you feel like dancing.

The coffee pot is waiting, so stop in. We are open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Siren

After a couple of scorching days and nights last week, the weather finally settled down to days of soft breezes and warm, balmy temps, just right for outdoor work and play with great nights for sleeping. With all the hot, humid weather, the area cornfields are looking good this year with lots of them going over the knee high by the Fourth of July rule.

The Siren queen pageant will be held at the Siren High School on Saturday, July 7, at 6 p.m. with a coronation dance at the Northwoods Event Center at 8 p.m., with the tickets for adults at $5 and students at $3.

All you residents of Daniels Township, don’t forget the Daniels Town Board meeting is now held on the second Tuesday of the month, which is July 10, at the town hall at 7:30 p.m. Take time to come to the meeting and take part in what’s going on in your township.

There will once again be a lot of hub-bub going on at the so-called Bells Ranch as they set up their tent city over the Fourth of July weekend.

Sympathy to the family of Barbara L. Olson who passed away June 20.

Sympathy to the family of Elsie C. Wegener who passed away June 21.

It’s hard to believe it, but the Fourth of July is here already with lots going on in Siren. The 27th-annual free-

Barb Munger

Bev Beckmark

dom race at 8 a.m., a pie social at the Siren Methodist Church starting at 9:30 a.m. until 2 p.m., bed races down Main Street at 10 a.m., the parade at 11:30 a.m., a boat parade on Crooked Lake at 2:30 p.m. and closing out the day is the fireworks at Crooked Lake at 10 p.m. put on by the Siren Lions Club and the Siren Chamber of Commerce.

The kids of Chuck and Hazel Hahr surprised their parents with a day of fun on Saturday, June 30, for their 50th anniversary. Charlie Jr. and the men of the family took Chuck to breakfast at Main Street Cafe while daughters Linda and Joan and daughter-in-law Laura, took Hazel to a brides breakfast at the Pour House. Those present were granddaughters Alaina Java, Kaylin Ritchey, Katya Hahr, Reed Ritchey and baby Cameryn Ritchey plus Hazel’s mom, Helen Voga, and friend Donis Taylor, the grandmas group, Naomi Glover, Marge Peterson, Dorothy Lahners and Bev Beckmark. The grandmas group gave Hazel gag gifts of something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. They finished the day off with a dance at the Moose Lodge.

All you guys, and the gals as well, who enjoy tractor or truck pulls, there is one coming up on Saturday, July 7, at Indian Creek. For more info call 715-653-2649 or 715653-2566.

Stensven/Hawkins Ken and Eileen Stensven are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Courtney Stensven to Paul Hawkins, son of James Hawkins and Luanne Paulson Boatman.

Paul is a 2000 graduate of Luck High School and currently works in auto sales at Forest Lake Chrysler-Mitsubishi in Minnesota.

Courtney is a 2001 graduate of St. Croix Falls High School. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in January 2006 with a bachelor’s degree in family and consumer science education. Courtney is a FACE teacher at the Grantsburg School District.

A July 14, 2007, wedding is planned with the ceremony at Luck Lutheran Church and reception at the Northwoods Crossing Event Center in Siren. The couple resides in Taylors Falls, Minn. – submitted

E-mail us @ the-leader@centurytel.net

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Rico is a 2-year-old, red, male Husky with ice-blue eyes. He has a tall, slender build that sports a soft coat. Rico is the rogue you can’t help but love. He is gentle and kind with an eye for adventure. Rico would make an excellent runner’s pet. He could easily help you train for the next Arnell marathon or lose those pesky 10 pounds around your middle. Rico Humane is a typical Husky. He has a great Society personality, an individual look and a “No Fear” attitude. He is waiting for just the right adopter to take him home.

Our dear doxie Dolly, who headlined this column a few weeks back, has found her forever home. If you remember, Dolly was suspected of having suffered the life of a puppy mill dog before coming to the shelter. She was reserved with people but willing to try, and she was in need of veterinarian attention.

Lucky for Dolly, Clear Lake Vet stepped up and offered a free dental for Dolly. Clear Lake Vet also repaired Dolly’s hernia, did a heartworm test, nail trimming and ear cleaning for a reduced price that Arnell could afford. After extracting five rotten teeth and her complete makeover, Dolly went

St. Croix Valley Senior Center

HAPPY TAILS

AWAIT

Hello, Fritz here! Have a barkinghappy Fourth of July! I hope you are all enjoying a day off from work and having a safe holiday. It’s a good thing the angels who care for us dogs at the shelter aren’t taking the day off, we have a full house!

Last week I mentioned the three playful pups Cassie, Ellie and DeFritz nali, they are still with us. So is Dixon, the beautiful black and NEWS FROM white spaniel/border collie mix.

And myself of course, you might not recognize me though if you came to visit, I got a haircut! I wasn’t crazy about the clippers, but it’s nice now to have lost the long coat for the summer. I must admit, I look pretty cute in my new do, arooooo!

Anyways, back to my other buddies here. Gordy is a handsome black and orange tiger-striped boxer, he’s about a year old and very friendly. Freddie is a

YOUR SHELTER

All those who are celebrating July birthdays are: Russ Adams, Marian Fox, Rita Boyle, Leo Chartrand, Rayola Edling, Mary Lou Lund, Earl Olson, Ken Stensven, Joyce Nelson, Verna Wood, Leota Schwanz, Nina Hoverman, Rich Hustad, Joan Ziegler and Mary McGlothlin. Happy birthday to you all.

Tuesday afternoon domino winners were: Donna Schlosser in first place, Ione Meixner in second place and Don Anderson in third place. 500 card winners were: Olga Young in first place, Rose Lee in second place, Roger Greenly in third place and Don Lund in fourth place.

Thursday evening 500 card winners were: JoAnn Gehrman in first place, Dave Anderson in second place, Cliff Qualle in third place, Nina Hoverman and Darlene Knutson tied for fourth place.

Wishing everyone a very happy Fourth of July.

home to live with three cats and a school teacher.

Everyone who met this sweet and petite pup wanted to help her. Thank you Clear Lake Vet for helping her make a new life.

Dog and cat adoption rooms remain full. The animals are waiting for you.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St. E., Amery. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon - Sat., 715-268-7387 or online: www.amhs.petfinder.com.

fit and trim 3-year-old lab. He’s at that age where he’s just calming down, but still has plenty of pep.

Babe is a 15-month-old golden Lab mix, she’s well behaved and smart, I can see it in her soft brown eyes! Then we have Neo and Trouble, two 7-monthold hound dogs. Woof, can they howl a tune! They are big dogs, with lots of energy.

That’s quite a few dogs but there are even more yet! We have another seven adults in the back who have been recently surrendered or found stray. And there are also seven wirey-haired, mixed puppies too! I know all puppies are adorable but these take the biscuit in originality. They are the fuzziest, wildhaired, cutest pups I’ve seen in quite awhile. These friends of mine, the seven adults and seven puppies will be checked over, given medicine and kept in back a few more days but will soon be ready for adoption. Plan on stopping in, we have so many dogs waiting for a good home, a pooch suitable for everyone!

With your help HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org, 715-866-4096.

Births Darrell and Laurie Fossum, Siren, and Dale and Pam Nerby, Siren, are pleased to announce the birth of their grandson, Carter Richard Nerby, born to Bobbie and Jon Nerby, Siren, at St. Croix Regional Medical Center. Carter was born June 6, 2007, weighed 6 lbs., 14 oz. and was 20 inches long. Great-grandparents are Arvid and Violet Fossum, Grantsburg, Elouise Anderson, Webster, Pat Nerby, Somerset and Marjorie Kannegeiter, Iowa.

••• Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center: A boy, Joseph Charles Wiltrout, born June 20, 2007, to Jameson and Kelly Wiltrout, Siren. Joseph weighed 6 lbs., 9 oz.

Dottie Adams

••• A boy, James Henry Schwegman, born June 20, 2007, to Bridget Cross and Caleb Schwegman, St. Croix Falls. James weighed 8 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A boy, Austin Richard Perry, born June 20, 2007, to Adam and Hannah Perry, Taylors Falls, Minn. Austin weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz.

••• A girl, Natalina Raine Kimball, born June 25, 2007, to Tabitha Christensen and Nate Kimball, Centuria.

Natalina weighed 6 lbs., 15 oz.

•••

653-4281

Lewis

Bernice Abrahamzon

Sympathy is extended to Edna Martin whose sister, Clara Waldo, passed away. Her funeral was held last week Monday at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church at 2 p.m.

Sympathy, too, to the family of Agnes Olson whose funeral was held Friday, June 22, at Zion Lutheran Church.

Sunday’s church service at Lewis really went over with a bang! The choir, decked out in red, white and blue with straw hats sang, “God Bless America.” Happy birthday was sung to Doris Pederson and Esther Schallenberger. It was also Communion Sunday with Marie Nelson and LaVonne Boyer as communion stewards. Assisting Pastor Mike with the service were Sylvia Schaetzel and Karen Johnson.

Pastor Mike spoke on gifts of the spirit in contrast to pitfalls to be avoided.

Because it was a landmark birth date for Esther Schellenberger (90th), special cakes were made by LouAnn Gackle and LaVonne Boyer (the latter decorated by Kara Alden) along with vanilla D.Q. Such a treat to share a birthday as Esther is now our most “senior member” and Doris is heading that direction in a couple of years.

The Lewis Church Finance Committee met Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the church.

Get-well wishes to Arlene Jones who underwent hip surgery last Thursday at Rice Lake. She hopes to recuperate and have therapy at the Frederic Care Center and Rehabilitation.

Barbara Olson (nee Olson) funeral services were held Sunday, June 24, at the Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Siren chapel. Her mother, Delores, was a member of the Indianhead Gem and Mineral Society, and had quite a collection of rocks and minerals. She also loved to provide flower arrangements for the Lewis Church altar. Barbara’s father’s funeral was held at the Lewis church years ago.

Her mother passed away in the Twin Cities, having left the farm on Elbow Lake. Lots of memories of times spent together.

Skonewood is once again drawing crowds to Sunday evening services. LaVerne Leep is often accompanied by Ethel Lane and Esther Schallenberger, and they all enjoy the music and message in song.

Remember next Monday’s meeting of the Indianhead Gem and Mineral Society at 7 p.m. at the Luck Senior Citizens Center with the actual meeting at 7:30 p.m. Speaker will be Dr. Richard Huset on Queensland agates in Australia. He has spent many months there these law few years. Potluck lunch per usual.

Remember, too, the combined noon potluck at Osceola for the NW Regional Writers and the Poco Penners, same apartment house as always. The date is Friday, July 13, (hope you aren’t superstitious!) Meet at 11 a.m. in St. Dominic’s parking lot, Frederic, to carpool. Bring a dish to pass and a short piece to read aloud.

Hope you read Val Johnson’s story in last week’s Writers’ Corner. It was the result of an assignment on “Holding Hands.” Your correspondent’s column last week was the result of an assignment about being invisible for one hour and where you are and what you are doing. (Bet readers were surprised to find her writing fiction). It’s a lot of fun and everyone is surprised by the ideas that pop up. There is no July assignment but the August assignment is to write on “The Visit.”

Sympathy is extended to the family of Ethel Erickson of Frederic who passed away last week. She and your correspondent were often roommates on senior citizen bus trips and enjoyed a lot of laughs together. Back in the days before casinos, trips went to Bayfield; Madeline Island; Rochester, Minn., to tour the Mayo Clinic and the private home of Mayowood; House on the Rock; the Capitol building in Madison; Old World Wisconsin; through the locks of the Mississippi River; Al Capone’s Hideout; Fort Snelling; St. Cloud and the gardens; Duluth; Canada; Upper Peninsula of Michigan; the Ozarks and Silver Dollar City and Shepherd of the Hills; lunch at Wabasha, Minn., etc., etc.

How do you feel about immigration into the U.S.? Hope you read Boyd Sutton’s piece on that subject last week on the editorial page.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Northern Star continues summer musical season with “Always … Patsy Cline” tion, includes many of Cline’s unforgettable hits such as “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Waking After Midnight.” There are 27 songs in all. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Seger, which were consistently signed, love always…Patsy Cline. Accompanying the story is Cline’s band the Bodacious Bobcats including Carol Kelm, Jim Hurst, Ed Thompson, Joe Grell, Beth Peterson and Tammy Roberg.

Showtime Wednesday through Saturday is 7 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. on July 15 and 22. All tickets are $16. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 715-736-4444.

Northern Star Theatre Co. is located at 104 S. Main St. downtown Rice Lake.

The NSTC Gallery will feature the artwork of Shannon Marquardt. Bob’s Bistro is open one hour prior to showtime for light suppers, drinks and desserts. Check the NSTC Web site at www.northernstartheatre.org for more information. — from NST

RICE LAKE — Northern Star Theatre continues their summer musical season with their revival of “Always…Patsy Cline.” Presented in partnership with Rice Lake Weighing Systems, Johnson Bank first presented this show in 2000 and will once again feature Glenwood City’s Angela Hierlmeir as Patsy Cline.

The show opens Wednesday, July 11, and continues through Sunday, July 15, then again Wednesday through Sunday, July 18-22.

“Always…Patsy Cline” is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who died tragically at age 30 in a plane crash in 1963. The show is based on a true story about Cline’s friendship with a fan from Houston named Louise Seger, played by Kim Graff of Rice Lake in this version, who befriended the star in a Texas honky-tonk in 1961, and continued a correspondence with Cline until her death.

The musical play, completed with down-home country humor, true emotion and even some audience participa-

St. Croix Falls Hydroelectric Dam Centennial Celebration at Wannigan Days July 19 & 21 ST. CROIX FALLS/TAYLORS FALLS – The hydroelectric dam on the St. Croix River at St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls, Minn., is turning 100 years old! Mark your calendars, the dam’s centennial event will be celebrated during Wannigan Days, July 19 - 22. This will be an interstate celebration of the hydroelectric dam, which at the time (1907), was built to supply electric power to Minneapolis, and was the largest hydroelectric project in the region.

The Centennial Dam Committee consists of members from the St. Croix Falls and Taylors Falls Historical Societies, Xcel Energy and The National Park Service. The committee’s energies have focused on planning a firstrate celebration that will honor the 100-year history of the hydroelectric dam, and the future that the second century will bring to the St. Croix River Valley. The slogan is: “The Dam in the Valley - Green Energy for a 2nd Century.”

Thursday, July 19 • 1 - 5 p.m. - Open House/Tours of the hydroelectric dam. Allows a closer look...it’s something to see! Commemorative brochures will be distributed during tours.

Tour length: 20 - 30 minutes. Location: west side of Main Street, across from Festival Theatre. Free parking.

If large groups (more than 16 persons), contact: Trudy at 715-386-4780.

• 1 - 5 p.m. - Hydroelectric dam photo exhibit at Overlook Deck site (under the tent). A duplicate photo exhibit will be located at the 1852 Town House School, Taylors Falls during Wannigan Days today and Saturday, July 21.

• 1 - 5 p.m. - Open House at The Baker Building, Main Street, St. Croix Falls. (The building is on the National Register of Historic Places). Featuring historic dam photos, paintings and Wannigans! Do you know what a Wannigan is? Come and see the historical photos!

Saturday, July 21 • 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Open House/Tours of the hydroelectric dam. Allows a closer look...it’s something to see!

Commemorative brochures will be distributed during tours. Tour length: 20 - 30 minutes. Location: west side of Main Street, across from Festival Theatre. Free parking. If large groups (more than 16 persons), contact: Trudy at 715-386-4780.

• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Hydroelectric dam photo exhibit at Overlook Deck site (under the tent). A duplicate photo exhibit will be located at the 1852 Town House School, Taylors Falls during Wannigan Days.

• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. - “Energy for the Environment” DVD shown continuously in the tent on the Overlook Deck. A renewable energy video from Xcel Energy.

• Main Event: 2 - 3 p.m. - St. Croix Hydroelectric Dam Centennial Birthday Celebration Ceremony at the dam overlook. Minnesota and Wisconsin governors and elected officials have been invited to attend. Speakers from Xcel Energy, centennial birthday cake, coffee and lemonade.

• 6 p.m. - Wannigan Days Parade - Watch for the Xcel Energy trucks with special giveaways for the kids. Remember Reddy Kilowatt? He’ll be in the parade too!

For a complete listing of 2007 Wannigan Days events, please go to: www.scfwi.com. - submitted

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Amery Public Library “The Yiddish Policeman’s Union,” by Michael Chabon Winner of the 2001 Pulitzer Prize for fiction for “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay,” Michael Chabon has written a new novel with a fascinating premise. After the World War II Holocaust, instead of the state of Israel being formed, the European Jews fled to Alaska and established their own province, The Federal District of Sitka.

Now years later, the district is due to revert to Alaskan control and political, criminal and religious forces are at play.

Meyer Landsman, a homicide detective with the district police force is called in to the death of an unnamed junkie in his own apartment building. Lansdsman can’t catch a break, he has been divorced, now his ex-wife is his new boss and he and his partner Berko Shemets aren’t making progress on any of their cases. On top of all this Landsman seems to be developing a drinking problem.

The author is clever, inventive and the twists and turns of the plot leave you breathless. What a great summer mystery read!

Library notes There will be no story time on July 4

because the library will be closed for the holiday. On July 11, our program will be The Traveling Lantern Theatrical Troup at 10:30 a.m. Come early as we have been having big crowds. There are 250 children signed up for Summer Reading and if you haven’t been in to do that yet, you can do it any time.

The Friends of the Library book group will be meeting on July 16, at 7 p.m. to discuss “Gilead” by Marilyn Robinson.

Copies will be available at the circulation desk next week if you would like to join.

Otaku Club will be meeting on Tuesday evenings at 5 p.m. Join teens (13 and older) who love manga and anime.

Teens Read Book Group will meet on July 30 to discuss “Diamonds are Forever” by Ian Fleming from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Come and join us if you are a teen for snacks and exciting book talk.

Pick up a copy at the circulation desk.

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.

Clear Lake Public Library New nonfiction arrivals: “Dogs for Kids,” “Open Road’s Best National Parks with Kids,” “Smart Approach to Small Space Living,” “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Cholesterol,” “Antiques Investigator: Tips and Tricks to Help You Find the Real Deal,” “One-Skein Wonders: 101 Yarn-Shop Favorites,” Ride the Right Horse: Understanding the Core Equine Personalities and How to Work with Them,” “Serving up the Harvest: Celebrating the Good-

ness of Fresh Vegetables,” “Storey’s Guide to Raising Meat Goats,” “Storey’s Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds.”

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.

Luck Public Library Get a clue!

Thursday evenings 5-6:30, July 12 Aug. 16.

Mystery and magic lovers between the ages of preschool through young adult are invited to join the 2007 Summer Reading Program, Get a Clue at the Luck Public Library! Each week will bring mysterious stories and magical activities, as well as awarding prizes for the CSI contest winners. Families are encouraged to join the Read To Me portion of the program. For more information and to register, visit the library.

Our kickoff program will be held July

12 at the Luck Senior Center, (right next to the library) where we will be hosting a Mystery Meal. The spaghetti meal will be served in a most mysterious way!

Come and join the fun!

July 12 - Mystery Meal 5-7 p.m. at the senior center (please preregister!)

July 19 - Lucky Days Magician 5-6:30 p.m.

July 26 - More Magic! 5-6:30 p.m.

Aug. 2, 9, 16 - Magical Art with Alyssa 5-6:30 p.m.

For more information call Jill at 4722770.

Osceola Public Library 2007 Summer Reading Program So far, the 2007 Summer Reading Program has given away three gift certificates to two local kid-friendly businesses. You too can be a winner! Just stop in and pick up a reading record.

Each completed record is an entry for a weekly prize drawing, and the grandprize drawing for an iPod! Book discussion “Weezie Bat” by Francesca Lia Block.

Join us Tuesday, July 24, 6 p.m., to follow

the wild adventures of an offbeat heroine who shares a Hollywood cottage with three equally quirky companions.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapubliclibrary.org.

Clear Lake Public Library

Dresser Public Library Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Story time Summer reading begins June 12. Registration for Get a Clue…at Your Library will be required this year. Summer reading will be Tuesday mornings at 10-11 a.m., for children, 3 to first grade. Chil-

dren entering third grade this fall and older, may participate in the independent reading portion of summer reading.

Contact the library at 715-755-2944 which is our telephone and FAX number or e-mail us at www.dresser pl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org. also has information about story times, days closed, reference links, library policy and much more.

Balsam Lake Public Library Story time Story time is at 11 a.m. every Wednesday at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks. We also have many new puppets that can be checked out for home use.

Books on the Beach Books on the Beach are back with something for every readers taste. Read at the beach or bring the books home.

Return to the beach when you’re finished if you’re able. Read, swim, sunbathe, what a way to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

Tales with Tails Children rea aloud to Ruby, a service dog, and her owner, Carolyn Peterson.

This will be every other Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Ruby loves to listen to stories.

Sometimes her eyes close but she is listening. Please call and sign up for a time 485-3215.

New books Some of our new books for July are “Quickie” by James Patterson, “Tin Roof Blowdown” by James Lee Burke, “Thunder Bay” by William Kent Kreuger “A Thousand Splendid Suns” by Khaled Hosseini. There are many new board books, children and young adult, for those lazy summer nights.

Book club Book club will meet Wednesday, July 18, at 3 p.m. - all ages welcome. Selection for July-“A Year of Magical Thinking” by Joan Didion. ”Life changes fast. Life changes in an instant. You sit down to

dinner and life as you know it ends.”

On Dec. 30, 2003, Joan and her husband, John Gregory Dunne, were just sitting down to dinner about 9 p.m. They had returned from visiting their daughter, Quintana, who was comatose in an ICU in New York City. They were having a conversation as Joan put dinner on the table. She looked up, it was very quiet, John was not responding. He was slumped over the table with his hand raised. She realized all was not well, and in that instant her life changed.

Friends group Friend’s group will meet Wednesday, July 25, at 3 p.m. at the Library.

Events Summer events have started and the library will be hosting programs twice a month throughout the summer. Flyers with details are available at the library.

Summer Readers Get a Clue at Your Library Program on Saturday, July 14, from 10:30 a.m. – noon – Outside Books Outside with Brad and Jason Levenhagen. This performance is a series of skits, songs and science demonstrations played with audience volunteers on a life-size game board!

Hours Balsam Lake Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake.

Hours are Monday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

Centuria Public Library Cut-ups come to Centuria Family Read Night – July 12, 6:30 p.m.

The second Family Read Night will be held at the Centuria Public Library on Thursday, July 12, with storyteller, Lynne Schauls, sharing stories about the fun-loving boys, Spud Jenkins and Joe Turner. Come and hear about their mischievous antics - snorkeling in a bathtub, inciting a riot in a local movie theater, and much, much more. Come see all of the new books on dinosaurs and participate in a fun summertime activity everyone can enjoy.

Centuria Memory Days Quilt The Centuria Women’s Club is displaying their beautiful machine-pieced, hand-tied quilt in the window of the Centuria Public Library. Come by the library to see this wonderful, cozy country-styled queen-size quilt. Raffle tickets for this quilt will be on sale throughout the Memory Days celebra-

Frederic Public Library

tion. Proceeds from this raffle go to support scholarship awards for area youth.

Library book sale The Centuria Public Library will be having a book sale during the Centuria Memory Days celebration. Books will be on sale in front of the library on Saturday, July 7, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A large selection of books for young adult readers will be made available. There will be books for children as well as adults. All books will be 25 cents.

Hours The Centuria Public Library is open Monday from noon to 5 p.m., Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m., Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m., Thursday from noon to 7 p.m., closed Friday, and open 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS Frederic Public Library Looking for a cool place in town?

If you’re doing errands and want to take a break, drop by our air-conditioned library for a comfortable chair and a chance to catch up on the news with the St. Paul Pioneer Press, the Inter-County Leader, the Burnett County Sentinel, the County Ledger Press or one of more than 80 magazine subscriptions on our shelves. The coffeepot is always full, and some days we even serve cookies!

Summer reading begins July 9 Kids of all ages are invited to join the library summer reading program, which kicks off July 9 and runs through Aug. 10. Children are encouraged to register soon with parents and pick up information packets and schedules of special programs (parents will also need to sign permission slips). This year’s theme is Get a Clue at Your Library and in addition to the regular program for preschoolers – third-graders, there will also be the YNK book group for fourththrough sixth-graders, as well as the CSI book discussion group for teens. Be sure to mark your calendars for Thursday evenings, July 19 – Aug. 9, when the library hosts special evening events as part of the summer reading program: July 19, at 7 p.m. – Merrilee Self and her Bearded Dragons; July 26, at 7 p.m. – Folksinger/storyteller Kevin McMullin; Aug. 2, at 7 p.m. - Pajama party/Game night; Aug. 9, at 7 p.m. – Magician Magical Paul.

Help keep our local food shelf filled Some customers regularly bring in a food shelf item when they return their

books, and it’s a great way to teach children about compassion and community spirit. Do a good thing for the local food shelf this summer by donating items such as canned goods, flour, sugar, rice and pasta, cereals, and fresh vegetables and fruits each time you visit the library.

Reading groups meet in July The evening book group will meet Wednesday, July 18, at 7 p.m. to talk about “The Sweet Hereafter” by Russell Banks. Following a tragic schoolbus accident, a high-profile lawyer descends upon a small town, and with promises of retribution and a class-action lawsuit, he begins his investigation into the details of the crash, uncovering a tangled web of lies and deceit that mirror his own troubled personal life. The Thursday morning reading group will meet July 19, at 10:30 a.m. to discuss “Pigs in Heaven” by Barbara Kingsolver. When a 6-year-old child named Turtle is the sole witness to a freak accident at the Hoover Dam, she and her adoptive mother Taylor have a moment of celebrity that will change their lives forever. Copies of the books are available at the library.

Library hours at a glance Regular library hours are Mon. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10 a.m. 5 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The library is closed on Tuesdays.

How to contact the library Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West. 715-327-4979; e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Did I read this already?

Now you can track what you have read through the MORE system’s My History. Check it out on the Web site.

Technology Free wireless access is available at the library. Also, visit the library’s revamped Web site to find out what’s happening @ the Library. www.stcroixfallslibrary.org.

Summer Reading Program Participants read for 58,545 minutes during the first month of the Summer Reading Program at Milltown Public Library – that’s equal to over 5-1/2 weeks of reading accomplished in just four weeks!

Join the fun! Register for the Summer Reading Program at the Milltown Library front desk, then bring home your reading record sheets and start reading!

You increase your chances to win one of the many weekly prize drawings, or even the grand prize iPod, by completing and turning in as many reading record sheets as possible. We will draw for prizes every Friday at 5 p.m. and will notify the winners. The Summer Reading Program is open to everyone – kids and adults.

Harry Potter Party Join the rest of the Polk County Potter fans as we anxiously await the release of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” during a prepublication Potter Party on July 20 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Milltown Public Library.

There will be two chances to win your very own copy of the seventh book. One copy will be raffled as a door prize, and the other will be given away to the person best dressed as a character from J.K. Rowling’s books. The prize books may be picked up the next day at 10 a.m. at the li-

brary.

The Potter Party will feature Butter Beer, Transfiguration, potions like Secret Snitcher and Exploding Filibusters, Herbology and Quidditch. There will also be Harry Potter trivia challenges.

This event is free and open to all ages.

No registration is required.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast wireless Internet access. No more waiting for an open computer! Surf the net from a comfortable chair! No time limits!

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers two story times every Tuesday. The morning story time begins at 10 a.m. Can’t make it in the morning? We will repeat the program at 6:30 p.m. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books.

Hours Library hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Polk County Library Federation

Walking, talking books!

The Friends of the Polk County Libraries participated in the Fishermen’s Party parade in Milltown on Sunday, June 24. Two members dressed as books, a gardening book and a Sherlock Holmes mystery, and Colleen Gifford, director of the Polk County Library Federation, carStory hour Listen to stories, creat great art and ried their sign and tossed pencils to the have fun with other kids and parents children along the parade route.

The Friends is a nonprofit group with every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. at St. Croix 501(c)3 status, formed in 2006 to promote Falls Public Library story hour! community support of libraries. They Hours, contact Our hours are Monday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Story hour friends at the St. Croix Falls Library. Some Good Samaratan Rresidents joined the story hour gang for books about colors, face painting by Dotty and fun art activities.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Saturday talk about the book club The book club meets the second Saturday of the month, 1:30 p.m. at Goochie Noochie’s in downtown St Croix Falls.

Call if you have any questions 483-1777.

Milltown Public Library

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.

The walking books will next appear in the Lucky Days parade, 3 p.m., July 21, in Luck, and the Wannigan Days parade, 6 p.m., July 21, in St. Croix Falls. - submitted

Parading Friends of the Polk County Libraries. - Photo submitted

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

United Way exceeds goals POLK COUNTY - The United Way of Polk County has raised over $94,000 in its 2006 fall campaign, far exceeding the expected goal of $55,000. “We weren’t just surprised,” said Carleen Dahl Matosky, regional director for the United Way of Polk County, “we were stunned.”

In past years, the fall campaigns for the United Way of Polk County included contributions from a handful of businesses along with individuals mostly located in the Dresser area of Polk County.

These campaigns were coordinated by a United Way representative from the St. Croix Area United Way in Stillwater, Minn., and raised roughly $45,000 per year. “Then things fell apart,” said Laurie Maher, executive assistant at the St. Croix Area United Way. “Mark Kristensen, our former executive director, just up and left the United Way, and we had no idea what was going on,” she continued.

In response to Mark Kristensen’s departure from the United Way, the staff of the St. Croix Area United Way began working closely with board members from the United Way of Polk County to create a new plan for Polk County. Board members included Grace Bjorkland and Kristi Scheet of Dresser, Steve Snell of Osceola, Carleen Matosky of Eureka Township and Richard and Jolene

Koethe of Milltown. “The local board members really stepped up to the plate and took over the campaign themselves,” said Maher.

The new plan included sending letters to every household in Polk County, with the exception of the Amery area where the Amery Area United Fund bases. “We didn’t want to step on any toes,” Maher said.

The $94,200 raised for the United Way of Polk County will be used for funding nonprofit organizations that serve the people of Polk County. It will also be used to improve the 211 system and start new initiatives that will improve the quality of services and life for residents of Polk County. Grants from the Bremer Foundation, and the Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation are being used to pay for the new staff position of regional director for the United Way of Polk County.

To learn more about the United Way of Polk County there’s a new Web site devoted to the nonprofit organizations at www.unitedwaypolkcounty.org. The local office is in Centuria at the Fristad Lutheran Church and can be reached by calling 715-553-0707 or by e-mail at infor@unitedwaypolkcounty.org. – submitted

Recently United Way and Nexen joined forces to raise money for local nonprofits, and Kinship of Burnett County was fortunate enough to be one of them!

Recently Kinship of Burnett County received a check in the amount of $2,400 from Nexen Group Inc. of Webster. The money was greatly appreciated and will be used to support programming for the over 30 children in the Kinship program and training for the 25 mentors. In the picture shown (L to R) are Gerry Potvin, Kinship board president, Deb Haley, executive director , Tim Tessman, procurement engineer for Nexen and Pat Wojak, Nexen representative. – Photo submitted

E-mail us @ the-leader @centurytel.net

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Local athlete heads to Team USA Training Camp prepping for World Games Country singer Jo Dee Messina and Olympic ice skater Scott Hamilton to make appearances MADISON – St. Croix Falls resident Maren Meister, 23, will travel to Nashville, Tenn., July 12-16, for a Special Olympics Team USA Training Camp. Meister will compete in bowling at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai, China, this October.

While at the training camp in July, she will participate in bowling training, team-building activities and learn about Chinese culture. Country singer Jo Dee Messina and figure skater Scott Hamilton will also participate in

activities with the athletes. In addition, the Minor League National Sounds baseball team will open their stadium to Team USA during a game. A Team USA athlete will have the opportunity to throw the first pitch.

The training camp is the first official time the athletes will meet their World Games coach and other athletes from across the United States.

Meister is very excited to attend the 2007 World Games in Shanghai. “I will do my very best,” Meister says. “I am honored to represent the United States.”

Meister has been involved in Special Olympics for 10 years, and has trained in bowling for all of them. Meister has won various awards through Special Olympics including a gold medal in bowling at the 2005 Special Olympics Wisconsin State Fall Sports Tournament. Her hobbies include singing, dancing, playing the piano, hanging out with friends and watching television.

Meister will join two others from Wisconsin repre-

senting the United States at the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai. Team USA will include 397 athletes and 99 coaches from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

International competition through Special Olympics aims to accomplish a unique goal. Through these World Games, athletes transcend boundaries including geography, culture and religion to join in the shared moment of victory, which brings even the most diverse people together.

Gratitude is extended to Kwik Trip, a year-round Premier Partner of Special Olympics Wisconsin. Special Olympics Wisconsin holds five state tournaments and more than 70 competitions per year, providing yearround sports training and competition opportunities for nearly 10,000 individuals with cognitive disabilities.

For more information, visit www.specialolympicswisconsin.org or call 800-552-1324. - submitted

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Village Players announce 2007 summer productions WEBSTER - The Village Players Community Theatre will introduce a new concept for their 2007 season. Two productions will run concurrently and all plays will include either a dinner or an ice cream social preceding the opening curtain. The theater at Voyager Village stables will be converted into a Chanhassen-like venue, the audience will enjoy dinner before Thursday and Saturday performances and an old-fashioned ice cream social prior to Sunday matinees.

Seating for the dinner or ice-cream social and the play will be at nicely decorated tables and in air-conditioned comfort.

There will be a choice of two plays: “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney will star veteran actors Wendy Rechsteiner and Tom McNurlin. The play is unique and imaginative and is comprised of letters exchanged over a lifetime between two people who grew up together, went their separate ways but continue to share confidences. The result is an evocative, touching, frequently funny impression that leads to true love but possible too late. “Love Letters” will be offered Saturday, Aug.4 and Thursday, Aug. 9 as

Rod Kleiss and Bunny Day rehearse a scene from “Marriage is Murder, due to open at the Village Stables theater in early Aug. – Photo submitted

dinner theaters and Sunday, Aug. 12 as an ice-cream social theatre.

“Marriage is Murder” by Nick Hall will star local favorites Bunny Day and Rod Kleiss.

Ex spouses write murder mysteries together. They act out the crimes in his apartment: poisoned chocolate, lethal martinis, alibis, fingerprints, bodies in a trunk, daggers, guns and even and axe contribute to the hilarity. There are many fast-paced comic twists. The final complication is a real murder that they and the audience should have seen coming.

The productions this year mark the ninth season for the Village Players Community Theatre. Starting from nothing but and idea and help from many volunteers, a fine community theater has been built and is equipped with the latest in sound and lighting. In addition VPCT has contributed financial support and scholarships to the local high schools for theater programs.

To order tickets, or for more information call Dee Troutman at 715-259-7876.

- submitted

Trendy Kids store has new owner

by Julie Holmquist OSCEOLA – Sara Jensen, formerly of Frederic, is the new owner of the Trendy Kids store in downtown Osceola.

Trendy Kids sells gently used clothing and items related to infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school-aged children.

If you need to trade in those good-asnew infant clothing, toys or car seats, the store will pay for the items.

“We buy the clothing, but the bigger items like cribs we take on consignment,” explained Jensen. “It’s like Once Upon A Child. So much of the clothing hardly gets used. This way people can get some money for it and still get something they need here, too.”

The 28-year-old just returned to manning the store after a short break to give birth to her and husband Rob’s third child.

Jensen herself shopped at the store before she purchased it.

“It’s so convenient,” said the St. Croix Falls resident. The store originally opened about 18 months ago. When she saw the business was for sale after the last owner gave birth to twins, she

thought it would be a good match for her and her family.

“It’s something I could do and have my kids here too,” she said. Abby, 4, and Aleah, 2, play in a back room of the store, check out all the “new” used toys and have naps there too.

“We try to make the store comfortable for kids, too,” Jensen said. “It’s very hard to shop with toddlers.”

There’s a play area where children can have fun while the parents shops for shoes, maternity clothes, equipment, books, movies, DVDs, high chairs, toddler beds, clothing size 0 to 14 and more.

Hours of Trendy Kids are: Mon. through Fri. from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sat. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The store is located at 204 1/2 Second Ave. in Osceola, across from the laundromat.

Customers may drop off items at the store. The store does not buy stained or torn clothing, and all equipment must meet current safety guidelines. The store does not purchase any recalled items.

The new owner of Trendy Kids in Osceola is Sara Jensen. – Photo by Julie Holmquist

Wine-tasting fundraiser at the Trade River Winery TRADE LAKE – Enjoy a night of food, wine and music at the Natural Alternative Food Co-op’s second-annual winetasting fundraiser hosted by the Trade River Winery. The second year of this event will feature Mediterraneanthemed hors d’oeuvres, music by Antiglacier and organic wines.

Since 1974, the Natural Alternative Food Co-op has provided the community with wholesome organic food. Located on Main Street in Luck, the member-owned cooperative carries a full line of fresh produce, grocery and bulk items, herbs and spices, vitamins and herbal supplements, dairy and frozen

products. Also found at the co-op is milk from Crystal Ball Farm of Osceola, Fancy-brand cheese from the Alpha Dairy and locally raised beef.

A cover charge of $20 includes appetizers and two drinks. Make your reservations at the co-op or call 715-472-8084.

Enjoy a night of food, wine and music

with friends of the co-op on Friday, July 13, 6-9 p.m.

For a complete list of wines, please visit www.traderiverwinery.com. – submitted

Dancing Feet Festival at ArtBarn July 7 OSCEOLA – St. Croix ArtBarn will present the Dancing Feet Festival, 1-9 p.m., Saturday, July 7. Join Duck for the Oyster; Shadow Puppetry; Will Hale and Parade Band; the Tadpole Hawaiian,Tahitian and Latin Dance; Batucada Brazilian Ensemble;

Bharatanatyam Indian Dance; Amwaaj Arabic Percussion Ensemble; Tribal Spirits of the Sun; and Illumination in this multicultural celebration of life that’s fun for them, fun for you, but most of all fun for the feet! End the day with a community drum circle. Entertainment for all

ages! Concessions will be available on site. The festival will be held rain or shine, on the ArtBarn grounds, 1040 Oak Ridge Drive, Osceola. ArtBarn is located one block east of Hwy. 35, next to the Osceola Middle and High Schools. For more information call 715-294-2787 or

visit www.stcroixartbarn.com. Tickets for the daylong event are $12, adults, $10 seniors, $8 students with 5 and under free. – submitted

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Queen pageant

Beth Rice crowned Miss Balsam Lake 2007

Lucy Locke was crowned Little Miss Balsam Lake by Brianna Peterson. Looking on is Little Princess Lolita Sanchez.

Photos by Tammi Milberg

Kendra Nelson crowns Beth Rice Miss Balsam Lake 2007. Looking on is Britta Norlund who was later crowned first princess.

Beth Rice sings “Jesus Take the Wheel” for her talent.

Britta Norlund recites poetry for her talent including a piece titled, “Freedom Isn’t Free.”

2006 Balsam Lake Royalty clap congratulatory after the announcement of the new royalty was made. Pictured (L to R) are: Princess Ashley Hutton, Little Miss Brianna Peterson, Princess Amy VanDeBrake and Miss Balsam Lake Kendra Nelson.

Miss Balsam Lake 2007 royalty are (L to R): Little Princess Lolita Sanchez, First Princess Britta Norlund, Miss Balsam Lake 2007 Beth Rice and Little Miss Balsam Lake 2007 Lucy Locke.

Little Miss Balsam Lake Brianna Peterson took her turn at the microphone during the farewell addresses by 2006 royalty. She was assisted by (L to R): Miss Balsam Lake Kendra Nelson, Princess Ashley Hutton and Princess Amy VanDeBrake.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest â&#x20AC;˘ 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ Parade

Veterans rode in style at the start of the Freedom Fest parade. All veterans that were in attendance during the Balsam Lake Parade were honored as the Grand Marshals.

Photos by Marty Seeger and Raelynn Hunter

The Unity band provided music and entertained as they walked down the street.

The Balsam Lake postmaster received chuckles from the crowd with his float at the parade on Sunday.

This parade participant announced the Polish Horseshoe Tournament that was held following the parade.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Parade

Seventeen-month-old Mathew Lawrence Mullmann avoided the hot sun in his Radio Flyer at the Freedom Fest Parade on Sunday in Balsam Lake. Mullmann is a fourthgeneration Balsam Lake resident.

The 2006-07 Polk County Fairest of the Fair Theresa Piemonte was at the parade on Sunday. The 2007-08 royalty will be crowned at the Polk County Fairgrounds on Sunday, July 29.

Jim Zahler, Unity graduate, drove the 4-H Blue Ribbon Affair float during Sunday’s parade.

The Red Hat ladies were full of enthusiasm in Balsam Lake on Sunday.

The steam engine was a crowd pleaser as it slowly made its way down the parade route on Sunday.

The Polk County Historical Museum float was all decorated for the Fourth of July.

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Car show

The streets were lined with a variety of different classic vehicles, from muscle cars to a restored Model A, during the Balsam Lake Freedom Festival Classic Car Show on Sunday, July 1.

Photos by Raelynn Hunter

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Fun

The turtle races, held in the bank parking lot after the parade, were big hits for young and old. Some spectators took advantage of the water for cooling off, while others just found a cool place to catch up on some reading.

Photos by Raelynn Hunter

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Unity school mechanic receives state award GREEN BAY – Doug Scharfenberg, St. Croix Falls, was awarded School Bus Technician of the Year by the Wisconsin School Bus Association at its annual convention last week in Green Bay. Scharfenberg has worked as a bus mechanic for almost 15 years at the Unity School District. School districts and student transportation companies across the state nominate bus technicians for the annual award.

Bob Christian, executive director of the Wisconsin School Bus Association, told Scharfenberg that he received the award for several reasons. First, he was one of only 15 of the nominees to be an ASE certified master school bus technician. He also received a good recommendation letter from Unity Superintendent

Correction

Tom and Denise Nelson, owners of West Sweden’s Skol Haus, were incorrectly named Olson in an article last week. We apologize for the mistake.

ArtBarn holds musical auditions OSCEOLA – St. Croix ArtBarn Theatre will hold auditions for Mary Hall Surface and David Maddox’s “Sing Down the Moon,” Thursday, July 5, at 6:30 p.m.

Journey into the Appalachian Mountains in this awardwinning musical that deftly weaves six traditional tales and original music into a keepsake quilt of mountain lore and wisdom. Male and female cast members, high school-aged through adults are needed. Audition materials will be provided. Rehearsals will take place on weekday evenings, Monday through Thursday. Performances will be August 16-18 and 23-25. Auditions will be held at ArtBarn, 1040 Oak Ridge Drive, Osceola. ArtBarn is located one block east of Hwy. 35, next to the Osceola Middle and High Schools. For more information call 715-294-2787 or visit www.stcroixartbarn.com.

- submitted

Brandon Robinson, and has an usual number of buses to maintain.

Scharfenberg maintains 20 buses, many of them older models, while the national average of buses per mechanic is 10. He also maintains four vans and other vehicles and drives a bus route in the afternoon.

The association also took into account that Scharfen-

berg faithfully attends the annual mechanics clinic, looking for ways to improve his skills.

The Wisconsin School Bus Association was formed to protect and promote the highest standards of transportation safety for Wisconsin children. - submitted

Issues with older farmers trouble ag industry STATEWIDE - America’s farmers are getting fewer and older. Many politicians and agricultural officials are worried at how this trend will affect the industry.

At a recent hearing in Washington, U.S. Sen. Herb Kohl said that his native Wisconsin is “on the front line” of states facing the challenges of aging farmers. Kohl said that the average age of a Wisconsin farmer is 53, and more needs to be done to ensure that the state’s 76,000 farms don’t suffer a loss of sustainability and productivity.

John Rosenow, a 57-year-old farmer from Cochrane, agrees that something needs to be done, and soon. He says “as we get older, there needs to be a generation to replace us.”

Rosenow is also a representative of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters, and has testi-

fied about the issue. He says if nothing is done in good time, the price of food will sharply spike or more will have to be imported. Rosenow says there are some possible solutions being discussed right now among farm groups and government officials, including immigrant workers. He says they’re a group of people that want to work on farms, and are mostly from Mexico. He says they find this is a good job and a good thing to do. He also calls for improvement in health care for rural America.

Other initiatives include improving access to technology, and helping make land and equipment more affordable for prospective farmers. Rosenow and others acknowledge that the high costs and shifting fortunes of farming can intimidate some younger people from trying. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull)

Indian casino revenues slowing STATEWIDE - Tribal gaming revenues in Wisconsin grew more slowly this year than last. It’s a trend that was true for tribal casinos nationwide, according to a recently-released report.

The $1.2 billion the state’s 26 tribal casinos generated in 2006 is only 3 percent more than the year before. That compares to an 11-percent growth in Indian Gaming revenues nationally.

The report also shows Wisconsin tribes paid state and local governments more than $80 million. The report’s author, Alan Meister, says that’s in addition to other economic benefits tribal casinos across the country are creating in the communities where they operate. He says in most cases, tribes are employing people and paying wages, and they’re driving lots of secondary economic activities that employ people. He says that adds to the economy’s output and those things gener-

ate tax benefits so the state directly benefits and “gets a slice of the pie.”

Meister says while Indian gaming has lots of room for growth, there are continuing legislative efforts to limit its expansion: in particular, pending bills in Congress that would make it more difficult to license offreservation casinos. He says while nothing happened last year, he’s sure those issues will continue.

Wisconsin tribes are waiting for federal officials to reject or approve three off-reservation casino applications for projects in the southern part of the state. The tribes from northern Wisconsin applying for the new casinos contend they need the revenues to fund social programs. They also argue the competition with existing casinos in southern Wisconsin will be good for the state’s economy. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Gil Halsted)

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

The Class of ‘57 had its dreams FREDERIC – When the Frederic High School Class of 1957 gathered the weekend of June 15-17, to celebrate their 50th reunion, had a guest speaker from the sociology department at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a young man appropriately named Carl Frederick. Why? Well, every reunion class is special, but the class of 1957 of Wisconsin has an even greater claim to fame than most, since hundreds of research studies have been done on it, including not just in sociology, but in academic departments such as medicine and psychology, and economics and epidemiology.

So Frederick came to thank the people who filled out surveys way back those 50 years ago, as high school seniors, and those who have been a part of the extensive follow-up phone interviews and questionnaires over the years since. And he told a bit about some research results—the class of ’57 gives back to the community in a high percentage; while in the U.S. population, only 46 percent of Americans voted in the 2002 election, 84 percent of the class of ’57 voted; about 4 percent of Americans give blood, but in the class of ’57, the percentage is close to

Far back row (L to R): Warren Hable, Duane Lindblad, Gary Paulsen, John Utley, Roger Young. Row 2 (L to R): Delores (Carlson) Bishop, Jeanne (Wikstrom) Hansen, Meryl (Bishop) Walsten, Lorraine (Knutson) Korts, Dale Fraser, Dixie Lee (Hemness) Roberts, Retta (Knight) Nelson, Marie (Fenton) Nelson, Henry Amundsen, Donald Johnson, Reuben Peterson. Row 3, sitting (L to R): Deloris (Engen) Bumpers, Dixie Anne (Lockett) Montgomery, Elaine (Callaway) Wedin, Juliette (Biederman) Dahling, Leaon (Lindh) Gronlund, Shirley (Hoover) Olinger, Beverly (Erickson) Chapman, Marjorie (Holcomb) Swedberg. Front row (L to R): Carolyn Wedin, Charlotte (Knutson) Anderson, Karen (Hunnicutt) Germani. – Photo submitted 20. And they have even kept up with the times pretty well, since 58.9 percent of them not only have a computer, but use it, and not only can they get on the Internet, they actually do!

Anyone interested in learning more about what is called the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study can visit the Web site, http://www.wisls.org. And Frederick has promised to stop back when he can see the Depot Museum, the new library, and enjoy some more walleye in nNorthwest Wisconsin.

Friday evening, June 15, Shirley and Bill Olinger, formerly Shirley Hoover, class of ’57, hosted an informal gathering at their Bone Lake home, complete with a cookout and a pontoon flotilla. Saturday evening, June 16, 26 members of the class (which had 57 members in 1957) gathered in the French Room at the Dalles House, St. Croix Falls, for socializing, dinner and program with Dr. Peter-

son acting as master of ceremonies.

Reuben led the group in a minute of silence remembering the 11 members of the class who have passed on, and Jeanne Wikstrom Hansen brought white roses in their memory.

The group heartily thanked Lorraine Knutson Korts and Charlotte Knutson Anderson for working so hard on the decorations, the goodie bags for each graduate, complete with an updated yearbook, and a collection of songs of the ‘50s, and all the time they put in planning the event.

Some returning class members were able to gather on Sunday, June 16, as well, for chicken dinner in Coon Lake Park, singing in The Choir on the Move, and the parade at Frederic Family Days.

All in all, a weekend to remember, even as forgetting sets in! - submitted

Safe fireworks are a blast STATEWIDE — With the Fourth of July, state health officials are encouraging people to enjoy fireworks in a safe and responsible manner.

“Fireworks are fun, but they can be very dangerous if used incorrectly,” said Dr. Sheri Johnson, state health officer.

“Firecrackers, rockets and sparklers cause most fireworks injuries, so we ask that people be extremely careful when using them. The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals.”

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, children are more likely to be injured by fireworks and about half of the victims are under 15 years of age. Sparklers are especially dangerous to very young children, as they cause the most fireworksrelated injuries for children under 6. If older children are allowed to play with fireworks, they should be closely supervised, because children are 11 times more likely to be injured by fireworks when they are unsupervised.

The commission says that the majority of injuries from fireworks are not caused by large, illegally purchased fireworks.

Rather, most injuries occur when someone mishandles small, legal fireworks.

Injuries may result from being too close when fireworks explode. Injuries from fireworks most often affect the hands and fingers, eyes, head and face.

All fireworks should be used with extreme caution. Here are some important safety tips to help keep everyone safe during fireworks displays: • Always have an adult present, and never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Read and follow all warnings and label instructions.

• Always have water, such as a garden hose and a bucket nearby.

• The adult igniting the fireworks should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the fireworks.

• Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.

• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

• Light only one firework at a time, and never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

• Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals. Keep your pets indoors to reduce the risk that they will run loose and get injured. Animals have very sensitive ears and can be stressed or frightened due to the igniting of fireworks.

• Use fireworks only outdoors.

• Never relight dud fireworks. Instead, wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak the dud firework in a bucket of water.

• If you are going to buy fireworks, choose a reliable seller.

• Never experiment or make your own fireworks - and stay away from illegal explosives.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can.

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

For more information on Fireworks visit: Safety, dhfs.wisconsin.gov/health/InjuryPrevention/Fireworks.htm. — from DHFS

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Winners of the 2007 Interstate Livestock show held at the Polk County Fairgrounds on June 16 ST. CROIX FALLS – In an educational event such as the Interstate Livestock Show, participants not only get a chance to show their animals, but they also get to participate in educational workshops, get tips on how to show their animals to their best advantage, and they also get to evaluate animals themselves to see if they know what to look for in a market animal.

Interstate Livestock Show chairman, Don Dipprey, Comstock, said that the event has brought in animals from throughout northwestern Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota for a friendly competition with an educational twist. Youth participants get a chance to have another show to better prepare for their upcoming county and state competitions.

The following are the winners of the various events.

Meat Class Judging Grand Champion Junior - Ethan Dado, Polk County Reserve Champion Junior - Trent Dado, Polk County Grand Champion Senior - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Reserve Champion Senior - Peter Meyer, Polk County Dairy Grand Champion Female - Chad Ullrich, Barron County Dairy Showmanship - Chad Ullrich, Barron County Beef Grand Champion Hereford - Ashlynn Johnson, Chisago County Reserve Champion Hereford - Karen Eby, Washburn County Grand Champion Limousin - Paige Sudbank, Polk County Reserve Champion Limousin - Liz Peterson, Polk County Grand Champion Simmental - Hannah Haffner, St. Croix County Reserve Champion Simmental - Jena O’Flahagan, St. Croix County Grand Champion Any Other Breed Heidi Smith, Washburn County Reserve Champion Any Other Breed Colten Maassen, Barron County Grand Champion Crossbred Beef - Jean Lyons, Barron County Reserve Champion Crosbred Beef - Jarrett Dayison, Polk County Beef - Market Classes Champion Market Steer Lightweight Cody Ponto, Taylor County Champion Market Steer Heavyweight Ryan Peterson, Polk County Beef Showmanship Champion Pee Wee Showmanship - Jamie Lyons, Polk County Champion Junior Showmanship - Ashlynn Johnson, Chisago County Reserve Champion Junior Showmanship Colin Scholz, St. Croix County Champion Intermediate Showmanship Megan McCune, St. Croix County Reserve Champion Intermediate Showmanship - Colton Maassen, Polk County Champion Senior Showmanship - Heidi

Overall Grand Champion Market Lamb Jena Alling, Polk County Overall Reserve Champion Market Lamb Lisa Dipprey, Polk County Sheep - Showmanship Grand Champion Sheep Showmanship Pee Wee - Nicole Dittbrenner, Polk County Reserve Champion Sheep Showmanship Pee Wee - Raemie Hammac, Washburn County Grand Champion Sheep Showmanship Junior - Alana Cain, Polk County Reserve Champion Sheep Showmanship Junior - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Grand Champion Sheep Showmanship Intermediate - Amy VanDeBrake, Polk County Reserve Champion Sheep Showmanship Intermediate - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Grand Champion Sheep Showmanship Senior - Lisa Dipprey, Polk County Reserve Champion Sheep Showmanship Senior - Anita Harr, Polk County Interstate Livestock Show Pygmy Goat Champion was congratulated by judge Ashley, on left. Goat exhibitors included standing: Johanna Alling and Jena Alling; and in front with goat Jenelle Larsen.

Smith, Washburn County Reserve Senior Showmanship - Paige Sudbrink, Polk County Goats Best of Show - Johanna Alling, Polk County Grand Champion Pygmy Goat - Johanna Alling, Polk County Reserve Champion Pygmy Goat - Johanna Alling, Polk County Champion Angora Goat - Johanna Alling, Polk County Champion Wether Goat - Jena Alling, Polk County Champion Junior Showmanship - Jena Alling, Polk County Champion Intermediate Showmanship Johanna Alling, Polk County Poultry Grand Champion - Austin Maassen, Barron County Grand Champion Showmanship - Austin Maassen, Barron County Llamas Grand Champion Youth Obstacle - Katie Mazac, St. Croix County Reserve Champion Youth Obstacle Rachel Mazac, St. Croix County Sheep - Breeding Classes Grand Champion Hampshire Ewe - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Reserve Champion Hampshire Ewe - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Grand Champion Hampshire Ram - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Grand Champion Suffolk Ewe - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Reserve Champion Suffolk Ewe - Victoria Arnevik, Barron County Grand Champion Suffolk Ram - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Reserve Champion Suffolk Ram - Drew Mason, Dunn County Grand Champion Commercial Ewe - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Reserve Champion Commercial Ewe Heidi Smith, Washburn County

Grand Champion Wether Style Ewe Nicole Dittbrenner, Polk County Reserve Champion Wether Style Ewe Heidi Smith, Washburn County Grand Champion Wether Style Ram Nicole Dittbrenner, Polk County Reserve Champion Wether Style Ram Victoria Arnevik, Barron County Overall Grand Champion Ewe All Breeds - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Overall Reserve Champion Ewe All Breeds - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Overall Grand Champion Ram All Breeds - Jeco Beyrer, Dunn County Overall Reserve Champion Ram All Breeds - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Sheep - Market Classes Grand Champion Prospect Market Lamb Lisa Dipprey, Polk County Reserve Champion Prospect Market Lamb - Katie Dipprey, Polk County Grand Champion Market Lamb - Jena Alling, Polk County Reserve Champion Market Lamb - Amy VanDeBrake, Polk County

Shepherd Honors Overall Junior Shepherd Award - Nicole Dittbrenner, Polk County Overall Senior Shepherd Award - Kevin Glunz, Polk County Swine - Breeding and Market Grand Champion Sow - Abby Culver, Polk County Reserve Champion Sow - Amy VanDeBrake, Polk County Grand Champion Market Hog - Kim Culver, Polk County Reserve Champion Market Hog - Kim Culver, Polk County Swine Showmanship Grand Champion Swine Showmanship Pee Wee - Jessica Strabel, Burnett County Grand Champion Swine Showmanship Junior - Alan Strabel, Burnett County Grand Champion Swine Showmanship Intermediate - Abby Culver, Polk County Reserve Champion Swine Showmanship Intermediate - Kim Culver, Polk County Grand Champion Swine Showmanship Senior - Amy VanDeBrake, Polk County. – submitted Interstate Swine Champions were bred

by Amy VanDeBrake, left. VanDeBrake has sold feeder pigs to many youth in the area and was very proud that some of her hogs were champions that were exhibited by Kim and Abby Culver. Kim had Grand and Reserve Champion Market Hog, while Abby showed the Grand Champion Sow with VanDeBrake bringing in the Reserve Champion Sow.

Interstate Market Lamb Reserve Champion exhibited by Amy VanDeBrake, left, and Grand Champion Market Lamb exhibited by Jena Alling, right. Alling’s lamb took Overall Champion Market Lamb and Lisa Dipprey’s prospect lamb Top sheep showmen in the Interstate Livestock Show were: Lisa Dittbren(not pictured) took Overall Reserve Market Lamb. – Photos submitted ner, Amy VanDeBrake, Alana Cain and Nicole Dittbrenner, all of Polk County.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Ruby’s Pantry distributes food in Siren

Ruby’s Pantry volunteers, (L to R) Mary Lou and Del Howard, Webster, Anita Baker and Jack Neumann from Frederic, got food ready for the people who came to take part in the food distribution in Siren Thursday, June 28. This was the first time Ruby’s Pantry food was given out in Siren, and the line of recipients started to form long before the food was loaded off the truck and ready to be given out.

LEFT -The bright yellow shirt worn by Anita Baker, and others working with her in Siren June 28, declared them to be among the Ruby’s Pantry food-distribution volunteers.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

The Ruby’s Pantry food distribution Thursday, June 28, in Siren didn’t start until 5 p.m., but people started gathering in line hours before that time. About 250 people received a wide variety of free food. “It’s a community get-together. People make new friends, and it helps people who need help,” commented volunteer Nancy Bergman.

RIGHT - Suzette Jeffries, granddaughter of Ruby from Ruby’s Pantry, was the overseer for the Thursday, June 28, first distribution of food in Siren. The only cost associated with the distribution is for the truck that brings the food to towns in Wisconsin; Luck, Frederic, Siren, Webster and Danbury. A community member paid the transportation cost for the June 28 Siren delivery. Anyone who is interested in donating that cost for other deliveries can call 715-349-3773 for more information.

Unity Lions Annual Spring Raffle winners announced

The Unity Lions recently held their spring raffle with the assistance of Milltown’s new royalty. Pictured from left are: Milltown First Princess and Unity Leo Club member Amanda Kuske, Unity Lion Bruce Noll and Miss Milltown Stephanie Lobert. — Photo submitted BALSAM LAKE – The Unity Area Lions recently held their spring raffle, the biggest fundraiser the club has in the year. The winners were drawn at the Milltown Fishermen’s Party, with only a limited 300 tickets sold.

This years winners were: 1. Remington Model 700-243-rifle: Joan Metzler 2. Knight 50-caliber muzzle loader: Karen Root 3. Deck furniture set: Denise Nelson 4. Turkey cooker: Dan Peper 5. Electric BBQ grill: Carla Goetz 6. Mountain Bike: Jason Anderson 7. Tent: Terry Anderson 8. Bass rod and reel combo – Mitchell: Mark Nelson 9. Walleye rod and reel combo – Shimano: Jeanne Johnson 10. Ultra lite rod and reel combo – Shimano: Jeff Erickson 11. Fly Fishing rod and reel combo –

Martin: Ciara DeLozier 12. Coleman lantern: Ben Cox 13. Stearns life vest: Al Nelson 14. Plano tackle box: Jim Bethke 15. Coleman mini-heater/cooker: Jim Beistle 16. $50 gift certificate to Wal-Mart: Jason Anderson 17. $25 gift certificiate to MarketPlace Foods: Sue Kellogg Gratitude is extended to all who supported the Unity Lions Spring Raffle.

Proceeds from this raffle and other fundraising projects are for scholarships, vision care and other community projects. A huge thank-you to the following merchants for assistance with the prizes: Balsam Lake Hardware, Northbound Sports, Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative, MarketPlace Foods, St. Croix Outdoors and Wal-Mart. - submitted

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Amery’s Travis Mork represents Polk-Burnett on youth tour of Washington, D.C. CENTURIA – Travis Mork, a 2007 graduate of Amery High School, was selected to represent PolkBurnett in Washington, D.C., June 9-14. He attended the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour with nearly 1,500 high school students from across the country. They learned about U.S. government, democracy and history by touring Capitol Hill, our national monuments and Travis Mork the Smithsonian Museums.

Tour highlights for Mork included meeting with Wisconsin congressional leaders, Sen. Herb Kohl and Rep. Ron Kind, visiting Arlington National Cemetery and seeing the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

“I had the chance to see politics in action, meet new people and see some very exciting sites,” said Mork. “I had the best time of my life.”

Travis is the son of Cyndy and Tim Moore and Ricky Mork. He recently became a firefighter with the Amery Fire Department and trained as an Explorer while in high school. He also volunteered with the Amery Area Ambulance, was a high school youth mentor and managed his school track team. He plans to attend UWRiver Falls with the goal of becoming a veterinarian.

While on the Youth Tour, Mork was elected by his peers to be the Wisconsin youth representative; he will return to Washington in July to attend the NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council and will participate in the association’s national convention in California in February 2008 as the Wisconsin flag bearer.

Mork was selected to attend the NRECA Youth Tour on behalf of Polk-Burnett based on his community involvement and cooperative spirit. He is a 2007 PolkBurnett scholarship recipient and an essay finalist.

Note: Polk-Burnett’s youth tour and scholarship program do not affect electric rates; they are funded by unclaimed capital credits. –from Polk-Burnett

Unity FFA’s Operation Stand Solid

Eagle Court of Honor held

An Eagle Court of Honor was held on Sunday, June 24, for Nick Krenz at the American Legion Post 143. Krenz is a member of Troop 160 and is the son of Mike and Kathy Krenz of St. Croix Falls.

He is a sophomore at St. Croix Falls High School.

Family, friends and fellow Scouts attended the ceremony as Troop 160 Scoutmaster Glen Museus presented Krenz the Eagle Scout Award.

His Eagle service project consisted of landscaping the new Dresser/Osceola/Garfield Fire Hall last spring. Krenz is an honor student and enjoys downhill skiing, snowmobiling, bicycling, camping, football, baseball and working with cars.

(L to R): Ed Kromrey, Troop committee chair, Glen Museus, Scoutmaster, Nick Krenz, Eagle Scout, Art Holle, District Advancement Chair and Al Wampfler, Assistant Scoutmaster. – Photo submitted

Ice Cream enjoyed at the Balsam Lake Farmers Market Vendors at the Balsam Lake Farmers Market enjoyed an ice-cream cone during a June Dairy Month promotion sponsored by S&C Bank. Serving the cones was Joe Larsen, dairy promotion chairman of the South Milltown 4-H Club. The Balsam Lake Farmers Market is in full swing with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, maple syrup, honey, and homemade crafts on Fridays in Pine Park from 3-6 p.m.

There is also a bake sale every Friday sponsored by an area church or youth organization as a part of the farmers market. – submitted

USDA Rural Development celebrates June Homeownership Month The McMonagle family recognized for homeownership achievement

Jenelle Larsen and Johanna Alling, members of the Unity FFA, recently attended the Wisconsin FFA Convention where they delivered the Unity FFA’s contribution to the Operation Stand Solid Project.

The Wisconsin FFA Association challenged each FFA chapter in the state to collect 20 pairs of shoes and $20 to cover shipping expenses, for Operation Stand Solid. These new or gently used shoes would be sent to troops in Iraq for distribution to the people of Iraq, focusing on the children. The state goal was to collect 3,500 pairs. The final count collected at the state FFA convention in June was just short of 7,000 pairs of shoes, nearly 1,000 boxes were recently shipped to Iraq. Area FFA chapters participated in making this FFA service project a huge success! – Photo submitted

SIREN – Daniel and Lawanda McMonagle lost their rental home to the Siren Tornado in June 2001, and without the resources to purchase their own home at that time, stayed with relatives until another apartment became available. With the help of USDA Rural Development’s homeownership program and additional grant assistance from Movin’ Out Inc, their dreams to become homeowners came true in May 2002, when they were able to purchase their own home.

“President Bush has proclaimed June National Home Ownership Month, and this is the perfect time to recognize this family for their endurance and their accomplishment,” said Rural Development State Director Frank Frassetto. “This is also a great opportunity to recognize the many loan and grant programs available through USDA Rural Development to provide both homeownership and rental opportunities to Wisconsin’s rural citizens,” he continued.

Since the beginning of 2001, Wisconsin Rural Development has helped over 5,700 Wisconsin families achieve their dreams of homeownership. In fact, overall investment through Wisconsin Rural Development during this same time frame amounted to approximately $2 billion.

USDA Rural Development is an equal opportunity lender with a variety of direct and guaranteed rural credit programs involving single and multifamily housing, community facilities, water and sewer develop-

ment and business and industry programs. The agency has offices across the state to serve Wisconsin residents living in rural communities, including their state office in Stevens Point, and area offices in Dodgeville, Fond du Lac, Menomonie, Shawano, Spooner and Stevens Point.

“I invite all interested individuals and communities in Northwest Wisconsin to take advantage of the numerous loan and grant opportunities that Rural Development has to offer,” said area director Cora Schultz, who also attended the recognition ceremony at the McMonagle’s home. She encourages interested parties to contact her office in Spooner at 715-635-8228 for more information on all of Rural Development’s programs.

Additional information on programs available through USDA Rural Development is also available by visiting the agency’s Web site at www.rurdev.usda.gov/wi. - submitted

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

Academic news NORTHFIELD, Minn. – Erik Hall of Luck was among 679 students who participated in ceremonies Sunday, May 27, as part of the 118th commencement at St. Olaf College. Hall received summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa honors. – submitted ••• TROY. N.Y. – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has announced the names of students who made the Institute’s dean’s list for the Spring 2007 semester. The dean’s list recognizes full-time students who maintain grade-point averages of a minimum of 3.0 out of a possible 4.0 and have no grades below C. Luck David T. MaidenMueller, junior, majoring in aeronautical engineering. – submitted ••• HOUGHTON, Mich. – Michigan Tech recognized the achievements of more than 800 degree candidates during spring commencement ceremonies May 5.

Among those honored are the following from the local area: Luck Chase A. Nelson, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering.

••• STEVENS POINT – The University of WisconsinStevens Point conferred degrees on more than 1,150 graduates during the university’s 2007 spring commencement ceremonies in May. Graduates, their guests and faculty were addressed by Erin Davisson, a 1982 UWSP graduate, who is co-anchor of CBS Channel 5 in Green Bay. A recipient of UWSP’s Communications Alumni of the Year Award, Davisson has also won numerous reporting and anchoring awards. Chancellor Linda Bunnell welcomed the participants and Provost and Vice Chancellor Virginia Helm recognized honor students and award winners. The list of candidates for graduation is below: *** Summa Cum Laude ** Magna Cum Laude * Cum Laude.

Amery Alison A. Johnston, Communication-Interpersonal and Organizational, B.A.; Heidi M. Seeland **, Biology, B.S. Grantsburg Rebecca J. McLain, Psychology, B.S. Luck Katie L. Gobler, Sociology, B.A; Lisa M. Fjorden *, Psychology-Human Services, B.A. Osceola Jesse K. Weiss, Soil and Waste Management, B.S. ••• ST. CLOUD, Minn. - St. Cloud State University conducted spring 2007 commencement ceremonies for more than 1,000 undergraduates Saturday, May 12, at the National Hockey Center on campus. Commencement and hooding ceremonies for more than 160 students earning their graduate degrees were held on Friday, May 11, at Halenbeck Hall. SCSU has one of the strongest international programs in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system; has one of three business colleges in Minnesota nationally accredited at the undergraduate and graduate level; and is the 15th largest producer of new educators in the country. A list of graduates follows: Centuria AnnMarie Kathleen Ruck, Unity High School, Bachelor of Science.

Grantsburg Leah Michelle Skifstad, Grantsburg High School, Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude.

••• RIVER FALLS – Bachelor’s degrees were awarded to 624 students following spring semester at UW-River Falls. Master’s degrees were awarded to 115 students.

Students receiving degrees are listed below by hometown, name, address, degree and major. Honors explanations follow: senior merit means a grade-point average of at least 3.5 for the final 60 semester credits;

cum laude means a minimum cumulative 3.7 gradepoint average for entire college career; magna cum laude means a minimum cumulative 3.8 grade-point average for entire college career; summa cum laude means a minimum cumulative 3.9 grade-point average for entire college career.

Grantsburg Georgia M. Green, MMGT, Master’s of Management.

Luck Christopher B. Crowe, MSE, Professional Development; Kathleen R. King, BS-LA, History - International Studies Cum Laude; Amanda L. Ogren, BME, Music Education.

Siren Jenny L. Isaacs, BSW, Social Work.

Webster Daniel P. Cremin, BS-LA, Speech Communication Computer Science & Info System; Sarah R. Lieder, BSLA, Music – Psychology.

••• STEVENS POINT – Nearly 2,170 undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point have been honored for attaining high grade-point averages during the spring semester which ended in May. Full-time undergraduates who earned grade points of 3.90 to 4.0 (4.0 equals straight A) are given the highest honors designation. High-honor citations go to those with grade-point averages from 3.75 to 3.89 and honor recognition is accorded to those with grade-point averages from 3.50 to 3.74.

Personalized certificates of scholastic achievement are being sent to those who earned highest honors distinction.

Student who received honors include: Amery Jaime L. Anderson, high honors; Heidi M. Seeland, highest honors and Melissa A. Thompson, high honors.

Frederic Rita S. Chelmo, honors; Grace K. Everson, honors; William S. Puetz, highest honors and Johanna E. Schmidt, high honors.

Grantsburg Carrie T. Myers, honors.

Luck Lisa M. Fjorden, highest honors and Katie L. Gobler, honors.

St. Croix Falls Kristin M. Peterson, honors.

••• MENOMONIE - Following are students from the area who were graduated from University of WisconsinStout on May 12.

UW-Stout, Wisconsin’s polytechnic university, is a special mission university in the UW System. The university has a long-standing reputation of serving business, industry, education and the helping professions through its specialized educational programs. Enrollment this year is approximately 8,400.

Amery Jenna Cardinal, BFA in art/graphic design concentration and Leah Johnson-Freer, EDS in school psychology.

Clear Lake Ashley Christianson, BA in psychology; Lisa Derosier, BS in human development and family studies and Gracia Larson, BS in vocational rehabilitation/psychiatric rehab conc.

Luck Heather Pickerign-Hawkins, BA in psychology.

Osceola Kyle Miller, BS in technology education; Joseph Leisch, BS in general business administration; Elissabeth Schauer, BS in art education and Jessica Steinmetz, BS in dietetics.

St. Croix Falls Venessa Kahl, BS in human development and family studies.

Webster Sarah Stromberg, MS in guidance and counseling.

Philip Ruffolo graduates from nonprofit administration certificate program SUPERIOR- Philip Ruffolo of Webster currently works for Communities United in Education and is the founder of NOWIF. He recently graduated with a certificate in Nonprofit Administration through the Center for Continuing Education/Extension at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

The program provides 100 hours of training specific to managing a not-forprofit organization or government agency. Workshops are aimed at strengthening skills in a variety of areas

including: strategic planning, financial management, fundraising, human resources and program evaluation. Congratulations to Ruffolo for his accomplishment!

For information about the Nonprofit Administration Certificate contact UWSuperior’s Center for Continuing Education/Extension at 715-394-8469 or 1-800-370-9882. – submitted

••• ST. CLOUD, Minn. – St. Cloud Technical College is pleased to announce scholastic achievement for spring semester 2007. The following students from the area achieved placement on the St. Cloud Technical College Dean’s List. The dean’s list recognizes students who have earned a 3.5 - 3.9 grade-point average in any given semester.

Centuria Kyle Peterson.

••• MARQUETTE –Local student who received a degree from Marquette University in May, 2007.

Amery Melinda Gille, College of Nursing, BS, in nursing.

••• BOSTON, Mass. - Northeastern University is pleased to recognize those students who distinguish themselves academically during the course of the school year. Siren resident Kathleen Miley, a Northeastern University student majoring in human services, was recently named to the University’s dean’s list for the spring semester 2007, which ended in May 2007.

To achieve the dean’s list distinction, students must carry a full program of at least four courses, have a grade-point-average of 3.25 or greater out of a possible 4.0 and carry no single grade lower than a C during the course of their college career. Each student receives a letter of commendation and congratulation from their college dean.

•••

Quakers to meet regularly BURNETT COUNTY – A Quaker group is planning regular meetings for worship every other Saturday at Webster.

The meeting will be held at the Northern Pines Friends Worship Group at 11 a.m. at 6020 Peterson Road. Persons may call 866-8802 or 866-7798 for further information.

This listing will be included in the church listings in the future. – submitted

Interstate Park Nature Story Time at Interstate Park ST. CROIX FALLS - Join Naturalists Julie Fox or Barb Walker at Wisconsin Interstate Park at 10 a.m. every Thursday through August for a story and activity for younger children and their parents. The short activity following the story will reinforce the story’s nature-related theme. Nature Story Time will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants.

Please check at the park office upon arrival for the program location.

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35, just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. The programs are free of charge, but a state park sticker is required to enter the park. For more information call Julie or Barb at 715-483-3747.

Naturalist programs at Wisconsin Interstate Park Friday, July 6 2:30 p.m. – Hiking the Ice Age Trail. The Pothole Trail is the western terminus of the 1,200-mile-long Ice Age National Scenic Trail that spans the State of Wisconsin.

Join Naturalist Barb Walker for a relaxing hike on the trail while learning about the unique geology of Interstate Park, a unit of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve. Meet at the Pothole Trail sign.

Saturday, July 7 10 a.m. – Family Fun: Paul Bunyan, Log Jams and River Rats. Hear the colorful stories of lumberjacks and white pine. Meet at the Summit Rock Trail sign.

4 p.m. – How Birds Make a Living. A fun activity for all ages. Meet at the Ice Age Center.

7 p.m. – Rivers are Alive. Beyond the visible signs of life in the St. Croix, the fish and waterfowl, is a world that is a reflection of just how clean these waters are.

Join National Park Ranger Bob Downs at the WCC Amphitheater on an expedition to “muck out” the fascinating and sometimes bizarre wildlife found on the bottom of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The amphitheater is located to the rear of the Beach parking lot.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 25

OBITUARIES Joyce Ruby Elenaor Fahlin

Lonie L. Seagraves

Maurice “Maury” Eugene Heyer

Joyce Fahlin (nee Skog), age 87, died of complications from renal cell carcinoma on April 23, 2007.

Joyce was born during the summer of 1919 in Minneapolis and grew up in the towns of Branstad and Grantsburg. She had fond memories of her early years on the family homestead near Wood River surrounded by her aunts, uncles, grandparents and great-grandparents. She graduated from Grantsburg High School in 1937 and married Gust William Fahlin in 1938. Gust and Joyce had two daughters, Sandra Lou, born in 1938, and Linda Sue, born in 1948.

Joyce was a longtime resident of Webster, where she raised her family, was a member of Grace United Methodist Church and shared coffee most mornings with her many friends at the Black & Orange, the C&S Cafe and the Calico Kitchen. Joyce worked as a waitress at the Black & Orange, and from 1959 until her retirement in 1981, she was employed at the Webster and Danbury Post Offices. After her retirement, Joyce traveled to Florida, Arizona, Manitoba and Ontario visiting friends and family. In 2005, she moved to Roseville, Minn. She resided in the St. Anthony Park Home from December 2006 until her death.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Gust; her mother, Jennie Skog; brother-in-law and sisters-inlaw, Signe and Arleigh Christopherson; brother-in-law, Herb Erickson, nieces, Dottie Evenson and Clarice Nelson; nephew, Kent Erickson; and former son-in-law, Duane Dahlberg.

She is survived by her sister, Elsie Erickson of Grantsburg; daughters, Sandee (Arvyl) Gatten of Falcon Lake, Manitoba and Mesa, Ariz., and Linda (Dan) Severson of Roseville, Minn.; grandchildren, Jon (Erica) Gatten of Fergus, Ontario, Joy (Matt) Blixt of Oakville, Ontario, Jodi Gatten of Steinbach, Manitoba, and Deena Dahlberg Anders of St. Paul, Minn.; great-grandchildren, Nathan and Anders Gatten, Alex and Taylor Blixt and Isabel Anders; nieces Vicki (Dave) O’Connor of Maplewood, Vernette Ward of Minnetonka, Beverly Ramberg of Burnsville and Mission, Texas; nephews, Dave Erickson of Grantsburg and Vince (Lori) Erickson of Lindstrom; cousins, high school classmates and friends.

Family and friends will celebrate her life with a memorial service at 11 a.m. (visitation at 10 a.m.) on Saturday, July 21, 2007, at Grace United Methodist Church, Webster.

Luncheon will follow the service.

Lonie “Dixie” Seagraves, Enahzin Kechee Mato (Stands with Bears), died peacefully at his home at the age of 87 onWednesday, June 27, 2007.

He was born Dec. 8, 1919, in Winder, Ga., to James E. and May B. (Freeman) Seagraves. After moving to Wisconsin in 1937, he attended Superior Vocational School where he graduated in 1939 from the welding program. He entered the U.S. Army on Dec. 8, 1942, and served as welder. He was in the Rome-Arno Campaign in the Northern Apennines in the Po Valley in Italy. He received the American Theater Service Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Unit Award and the World War II Victory Award. He served until Nov. 18, 1945 and exited the Army as a Technician 4 Sergeant.

He married Margaret Gregerson on Sept. 11, 1945, in Superior. Shortly thereafter they moved to the Big McGraw Lake area in Blaine Township. To this union were born two daughters, Patricia and Dawn.

Dixie worked as a welder and blueprint layout person in metal works his entire career, retiring from Mesabi Iron Works in Proctor, Minn., in 1981. He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. After his retirement he began his hobby of reloading ammunition, which he perfected and truly enjoyed. He loved recounting various tales of his life’s experiences and was an excellent storyteller. His friends were not limited to humans, as he had various wildlife friends that would frequent his yard, the most enjoyable of which were the bears whom he held in high regard. He was a true outdoorsman and loved and respected the Creation around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James W. Seagraves; and his wife.

He is survived by his daughters, Patricia (Larry) Kinblom of Cozy Corner, Dawn (Pete Dunkley) Seagraves of Webster; grandchildren, Carey (Jake) Werlein of Palmer, Alaska, Robin Kinblom of Burnsville, Minn., Toby Thomas of Webster, Lisa Miller of Homer, Alaska, and Chelsea Thomas of Mapleton, Iowa; as well as great-grandchildren, Breanna and Kayleigh Seagraves of Palmer, Alaska.

A memorial service in accordance to his wishes was held at the Northland Community Center in Cozy Corner on Saturday, June 30, 2007.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster was entrusted with arrangements.

Maurice “Maury” Eugene Heyer, 72, died Friday, June 29, 2007.

He was born March 12,1935, to Clarence and Florence (Robbins) Heyer in Wisconsin Rapids.

He attended Wisconsin Rapids and Ely, Minn., schools and graduated high school in Spokane, Mo., where he met and married Barbara (Blevins) Heyer 50 years ago on June 7. They have three sons, Jay and Barry Heyer of Webster, and Todd and wife Kristy Heyer of Stillwater, Minn.

Maurice was a devoted husband, father and a respected Sunday school teacher, Boy Scout leader and fireman in the Webster Fire Department for 16 years. He loved the outdoors where he worked for the Department of Natural Resources for 23 years in Burnett County. He also worked on an ore boat, was a crane operator on the North Shore of Lake Superior and operated a freight line in Southwest Missouri.

Maury had many interests in his lifetime, such as building and flying model airplanes and radio controlled planes, flying ultralights, riding and restoring Cushman scooters and bikes. He belonged to the Military Vehicle Preservation Group.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; their sons, Jay, Barry and Todd; a sister, Yvonne (Don) Kuzma of Bend, Ore.; nephews and a neice, Mark (Sandy) Kuzma of Minneapolis, Minn., Dawn Marie (Alex) Houlding of Minneapolis, Minn., and Scott and Sarah Kuzma of Portland, Ore; great-nephews, nieces, step-grandchildren; Tracy Hopkins and Adam Gould and two stepgreat-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Monday, July 2, at the Siren Covenant Church in Siren with Pastors Dave Guertin and Lloyd Melvie officiating. Music was provided by Joan Daniels and Nancy Daniels. Casket bearers were Norm Bickford, Norm Hanson, Gerry Potvin, Jim Franzel, Bruce Gibbs and Darryl Mork. Honorary casket bearers were Afton Ware, Wally Sims, Don Kuzma, Bill Laqua, Paul Noreen, Tom Savereide and Kevin Kronlund.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home of Webster was entrusted with arrangements.

Vivian Wiesch Vivian Wiesch, Luck, formerly of Chicago, Ill., died June 30, 2007, at United Pioneer Home. She was 89 years old.

She was born March 9, 1918, in Chicago, Ill., to Michael and Gertrude (Lattiere) Rich, and lived most of her life in the Chicago area.

Vivian was preceded in death by brothers Conrad and Joe Rich; and sister Irene Skizas.

She is survived by daughters Carol (Ed) Tacker, Marlin, Texas, and Vivian (Charles) Shellito, Luck; sons Richard (Georgianna) Wiesch and Jim (Sharon) Wiesch, both of Beecher, Ill., John (Deb) Wiesch, Geneseo, Ill., William (Julie) Wiesch, Lockport, Ill., and Walter (Denise) Wiesch, Silver Spring, Md.; 24 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A private family funeral mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 7, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Shell Lake with Father Andrew Ricci officiating. Burial will be in Shell Lake Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Pockat Funeral Home in Shell Lake.

The Pockat Funeral Home, Shell Lake, was entrusted with arrangements.

Barbara Jean (Thurner) Broom Barbara Jean (Thurner) Broom, died peacefully at her home in the presence of her family on June 5, 2007, at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer.

Barbara was born Jan. 13, 1937.

She was preceded in death by father, Frank Thurner; mother, Blanche (Thurner) Anderson, and brother, Greger Anderson.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Ed Broom; children: Dale (Lisa) Broom, Suzie (Jeff) Helberg, Debbie Thompson and Gene Broom; brothers, Frank (Becky) Thurner, Jim (Hilma) Thurner and Kenny (Pat) Thurner; sisters, Lynne (Rick) Jarmon and Nancy (Chris) Jones; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Evy (Del) Tyler and George (Cherie) Broom; grandchildren, Sara (Chris), Jessica (Rick), Tracy, Michael, Julie, Cory, Madeline and Wyatt; great-grandchildren, Brandon, Brenna, Cole, Noah, Kevin, Ethan, Quinn and Hayley Rae; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and friends.

EDLING FUNERALHOME 201 N. Adams St. St. Croix Falls, WI (715) 483-3141

E

EDLING TAYLOR FUNERALHOME 387 State Rd. 70 Grantsburg, WI (715) 463-2994

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

OBITUARIES David J. Littfin

Lois Higley

Gaylord Clarence Worrell

David J. Littfin, Webster, formerly of W. St. Paul, Minn., died June 25, 2007, at his home. He was 69 years old.

David was born on May 14, 1938, in St. Paul, Minn., to Alex and Bernice Littfin.

David married Barbara in November 1961 at the St. Cecilia Catholic Church in St. Paul, Minn. David loved flying, fishing, snowmobiling and antique cars. He enjoyed being outdoors and taking care of his airstrip and 71 acres of land. He was a member of the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association and Minnesota Street Rod Association. In 1963, he moved his family to California and began working for the Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company and later went to work for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. In 1965, he returned to Minnesota and began his career as an insulation worker, which was his primary occupation until his retirement in 1992. He took breaks in the late 1970s and early 1980s to run his own dump truck business and to build the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in 1977. In 1975, he purchased his beloved 1947 Cessna 140 and earned his private pilot’s license in 1980. He loved flying all over northwestern Wisconsin and was particularly happy when he achieved his lifelong dream of having an airstrip at his home where many of his friends flew in to visit over the years. He also enjoyed his classic cars, including his two 1979 Lincoln Mark IVs, 1979 Dodge Magnum, Volkswagen Dune Buggy, and his 1934 Ford five-window Coupe which he owned since 1967.

David was preceded in death by his parents.

David is survived by his wife, Barbara, Webster; sons Scott (Michele) Littfin, Bloomer, Todd (Susan) Littfin, Eau Claire; sister Joan (Tom ) Shields, Bloomington, Minn.; and granddaughters Shanna and Lauren.

Funeral services were held June 29 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Otto Bucher OFM CAP officiating. Music was provided by the Sacred Heart Choir and Kim Dropps. Interment followed at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Casket bearers were Scott Littfin, Todd Littfin, Tom Kufalk, Joe Belany, Jerry Danner and Doc Helsper.

The Scalzo-Taylor Funeral Home, Spooner, was entrusted with arrangements.

Lois Lawson Higley died June 4, 2007, in San Diego, Calif., at the age of 87.

Lois was born in Luck on July 11, 1919, and graduated from Luck High School in 1937. She attended the University of Wisconsin in La Crosse and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught in Wisconsin and St. Paul, Minn. Lois married Bill Higley in 1946, and they lived in San Diego, Calif., until 1949, when they moved to Rawlins. They had Higley Electric until the time of Bill’s death in 1961.

Lois was involved in a variety of volunteer organizations included the Rawlins Civic Association to get the outdoor swimming pool at Washington Park built, the American Red Cross, United Way, United Blood Services and the Community Concert Association.

Lois was asked to be the manager of the RawlinsCarbon County Chamber of Commerce in 1969. She was the director of the chamber until she retired in 1984. While managing the chamber, she attended the Institute of Organizational Management and received her six-year certificate followed by another three years of post-graduate work at Boulder, Colo. She was also a president of the Wyoming Chamber of Commerce Executives and attended the U.S. Chamber Convention in Washington, D.C. She also served on the Mountain States Association Board. One of Lois’ greatest memories was “Lois Higley Day” in Rawlins. She would state that she could not believe this happened to her because these things always seemed to take place after someone died. She was always very honored to have Higley Boulevard named after her. She loved the Rawlins Community and its people.

In 1984, Lois retired at the age of 65 and started her “retirement adventures” with her home on wheels and $20 a day! She traveled into and through every state at least once and across Canada. She and her home on wheels put on over 125,000 miles together meeting many new friends and seeing the sights this great nation has to offer.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents, James and Louise Lawson; as well as two brothers, Bud and Lew Lawson.

She is survived by her son, Bill (Jan) of San Diego, Calif.; grandchildren, Matt Higley of San Diego and Ellie Higley of Los Angeles, Calif.; her daughter, Kryssy (Ray) Brown of Rawlins, Wyo.; one sister, Donna (Harley) Petersen) of Minocqua.

Memorial services are scheduled for July 21, 1 p.m., at the Episcopal Church in Rawlins.

Gaylord Clarence Worrell of Milltown died peacefully in his home on June 30, 2007. He was 71 years old.

He was born in Roberts on Sept. 24, 1935, to Harold and Minnie (Erickson) Worrell.

He married his wife, Ardella (Rineck) on May 25, 1956, in Mason City, Iowa. To this marriage two children were born, Daniel and David.

Gaylord attended school in Hudson and learned the plumbing trade as a young man. After working for Stokers Plumbing and Heating in Osceola for several years, he managed his own plumbing business for many years, and later provided services for Osceola Plumbing and Heating.

An avid outdoorsman, Gaylord enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, archery and hunting. Trips to Montana, Canada, Newfoundland and many other places yielded antelope, moose, bear, and deer for the family freezer.

Also a horseman, he enjoyed trail riding with his favorite horse, Sugar Dee, until the age of 59 when he experienced a disabling stroke. His last years were spent at home in the care of his devoted wife and family.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents; his brothers, Jerry and Richard Worrell; his sisters, Harriet Adams, Viola Newman, Virginia Harjing and Maxine Bonnegard.

He is survived by his wife, Ardella; sons, Dan (Tanna) and David (Jamie) Worrell; brother, Bud (Donna) Worrell; sisters, Cebena Kringle and Joyce Rust; grandchildren, John Branum, Jessica, Tony (Karolyn), Emily, Jared and Hope Worrell, and one great-grandchild, Arial Branum. Another great-grandchild is expected this fall.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday July 3, at 2 p.m., at Fristad Lutheran Church in Centuria. A visitation was held on Monday, July 2, at Kolstad Family Funeral Home in Centuria.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with arrangements.

Walter Lee Johnson Walter Lee Johnson of Henderson, Nev., formerly of Centuria, died June 16, 2007, in Henderson, Nev. He was 99 years old.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret; sons, Richard, Gerald and Norman.

He is survived by Doris Skog, Evelyn Maack, Geraldine Kelch, Donald Johnson and Gordon Johnson; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and greatgreat-grandchildren.

Interment will be at the Macville Cemetery near Swatana, Minn., at a later date.

Subscribe online @ www.the-leader.net

Anna M. Carlson Anna M. Carlson, age 87, a resident of Siren, formerly of St. Paul, Minn., died June 28, 2007, at Burnett Medical Center.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents, and four brothers.

Anna is survived by her husband, Alfred Carlson of Siren; children, Joanne (Earl) Schwan of North Branch, Minn., Barbara (Harold) Frank of Maplewood, Minn., Richard (Olga) Carlson of Chisago City, Minn., William (Coleen) Carlson of Lakeville, Minn., Roxanne (Douglas) Johnson of Muscatine, Iowa; two brothers, Michael (Dorothy) Leitner of St. Paul, Minn., Leo (Shirley) Leitner of St. Paul, Minn.; two sisters, Margaret Dischinger of Dayton, Minn., Rose Freer of Eagle River, Ark.; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

Memorial services were held Monday, July 2, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with Father Otto Bucher officiating. Music was provided by Jan Larson and Kim Dropps. Interment was held at Kahbakong Cemetery in Taylors Falls, Minn.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster was entrusted with arrangements.

Scott G. Anderson Scott G. Anderson, 42, a resident of Webster, died June 25, 2007, at Spooner Health System.

Scott was born on March 16, 1965, to George and Barbara Anderson.

Scott enjoyed music. He played organ at the St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church in Kenosha for many years. He played everything from Bach to rock. Scott loved being outdoors playing golf, fishing, taking care of his yard and always enjoyed having bonfires. Scott was a true fan of the Chicago Bears and the Cubs.

Scott was preceded in death by his father, George; maternal grandparents and paternal grandfather.

Scott is survived by his mom, Barbara (Gary) Morrill of Frederic; paternal grandmother, Dorraine Anderson of Kenosha; fiancé, Linda Fiecke of Webster; daughter, Jenna Mary Anderson of Webster; sister, Lisa Michelle Anderson of Pell Lake, Ill.; great-aunt, Jessie Voight of Kenosha, and his dog, Bailey.

A memorial services was held Tuesday, July 3, at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Spooner with Father Bob Rodgers officiating. Music was provided by Jo Henrikson.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster was entrusted with arrangements.

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 27

CHURCH NEWS The invisible veils we wear

You Can’t Get to Heaven Alone

Back in the 1950s and ‘60s many of we women wore hats to church.

Some of the hats had nice veils that covered our faces. Because others did it, I followed suit, never giving Sally Bair a thought to the why or wherefore of that fad. I do remember that the veil made it harder to see the PERSPECTIVES words in the hymnal as I sang, and to see out the car window as my husband drove.

Today there are women in other cultures who wear veils to cover their face. But we all at some time or other wear invisible veils of our own making. Sometimes we wear the veil of self-deception or untruth about ourselves or about God. That’s when we tell ourselves we aren’t good enough for God’s mercy— or are too good for him so we have no need for him.

That’s when we tell ourselves that God is to blame for all our sorrows and problems. And there is the veil of doubt about God’s Word that many of us wear.

That’s when we tell ourselves that God can’t really heal our loved one, or that the Bible stories are too preposterous to believe—especially about creation.

Some of us wear the veil of hypocrisy. We become intent on showing one side of ourselves and acting another, hiding our true nature. There is no end to the kinds of veils we put over our spiritual eyes because of the problems we face, the facts we’ve been taught, or the trials we’ve experienced.

God’s Word says that he has revealed himself through Christ, having cleared up all mysteries.

When we seek him with our whole heart, through his Word and prayer, he removes the veils we’ve put on so we can see him as he is. And the more we read and study and meditate on his Word, the more we learn about his goodness and greatness. He is our King, our Savior, our Comforter. He is extravagant in his love for us. He is totally and forever faithful in his promises. He is so great and wonderful, we could spend a lifetime thanking him. And each word of thanks removes our self-made, invisible veils a little more. Lord, we thank you for making yourself known to us through your Word and Spirit. Reveal to us the invisible veils we wear and then remove them so we can see and understand you more clearly.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

ETERNAL

135th-anniversary celebration to be held

that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe and tremble” (James 2:19). We must submit to all of the will of the Father, and our faith must obey Him if (Part 5 of 5) we hope to enter that land of rest and reAs this series has been pointing out, ward (Matthew 7:21; 28:20; Hebrews many people believe they can get to 5:8,9). We cannot get to heaven by faith heaven “alone” – with only one part of Garret alone.

God’s list of salvation essentials. They We can’t get to heaven “alone.” The choose only what they want to do with- Derouin “shortcuts” to gloryland are all deadends. out giving true consideration to what Heaven can be yours and mine if we are THE God wants and desires from us. The last willing to rely on all God’s salvation nefew weeks we have examined four dif- PREACHER’S cessities. We must have the love and grace ferent ways in which, some people, try of God; we must have the blood of Christ PEN to get to heaven “alone”. This week we (Matthew 26:28); we must be born of the will examine a the fifth and final way in Spirit (John 3:3-5). We also must hear and this series of articles. believe the Gospel of Christ (John 6:44, 45; 8:24).

Some try to get to heaven by FAITH alone. We must repent of our sins (Luke 13:3). We must Some have been taught all they have to do to be confess Christ’s deity (Matthew 10:32). We must saved is “believe in Jesus.” “Faith alone” is their be buried in baptism to wash away our sins (Acts motto. While faith in Christ is absolutely essen- 22:16). We must “be good” – live faithful unto tial (John 3:16; Hebrews 11:6), it is not all that death (Titus 2:11, 12; Revelation 2:10).

God requires. James wrote, “What does it profit, Think about it. You can get to heaven; you my brethren, if someone says he has faith but just can’t get there alone! (Adapted from a tract does not have works? Can faith save him? If a by Wade Webster) brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily If readers have questions or simply wish to food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in know more about the Church of Christ, we peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give would like to invite them to call 715-866-7157 or them the things which are needed for the body, stop by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it Webster. Sunday Bible class begins at 9:30 a.m. does not have works, is dead.” (James 2:14-17 and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. We also meet NKJV). Three times James says that faith without Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Office hours are works is dead (2:17, 20, 26). Even devils believe Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. - noon. but are not willing to obey Him. “Thou believest

Confirmations held

Zion Lutheran Church of Bone Lake’s May 6 confirmands were: (L to R): Alyssa Hutton, Pastor Larry Juergensen and Curtis Donald.

Pastor Mark Richardson and former Pastor Dave Anderson greet parishioners following the worship service.

DRESSER – Bethesda Lutheran Church hosted the second part of their 13th-anniversary celebration in June.

The day included an anniversary worship celebration presided over by Pastor Dave Anderson, former pastor of Bethesda from 1978 - 1986, and current Pastor Mark Richardson. The worship was followed by a catered lunch when they served 260 people both inside and out.

In the afternoon, they had a dedication of the restoration of their 1873 original church that will be restored on the church property. More then 77 confirmands, from the classes of 1932 through the class of 2007, returned to take part in the day of celebration. – submitted

Clam Falls Lutheran Church’s May 6 confirmands were: (L to R) Jon Sederlund, Carl White, Tanesha Carlson, Kyle Simonson, Pastor Larry Juergensen, Logan Evenson, Trae Gehl and Zachary Tietz. – Photos submitted

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

CHURCH NEWS Children are owed apology if they have been wronged Q: I recently scolded my daughter for something I found out later she hadn't done. Would you go so far as to apologize to a child if you felt you had been in the wrong?

DR. DOBSON: I certainly would - and indeed, I have. A number of years ago, I was burdened with pressing responsibilities that fatigued me and made me irritable. One particular evening I was especially grouchy and short-tempered with my 10-year-old daughter. I knew I was not being fair, but was simply too tired to correct my manner. Through the course of the evening, I blamed Danae for things that were not her fault and upset her needlessly several times. After going to bed, I felt bad about the way I had behaved, and I decided to apologize the next morning.

After a good night of sleep and a tasty breakfast, I felt much more optimistic about life. I approached my daughter before she left for school and said: "Danae, I'm sure you know that daddies are not perfect human beings. We get tired and irritable just like other people, and there are times when we are not proud of the way we behave. I know I wasn't fair with you last night. I was terribly grouchy, and I want you to forgive me."

Danae put her arms around me and shocked me down to my toes. She said, "I knew you were going to have to apologize, Daddy, and it's OK; I forgive you."

Can there be any doubt that children are often more aware of the struggles between generations than are their busy, harassed parents?

•••

Q: I was watching an old black and white movie on television the other night that was made in the late 1930s. What jumped out at me was the respectful way the teenagers related to their parents. These kids, who appeared to be 17 or 18 years old, were downright deferential and looked to their father to make Dr. James final decisions regarding their own Dobson behavior. I know this was just fiction, but I got the impression that that's the way families functioned back then. Today, even "good kids" from strong families are often more independent and disrespectful to their parents. If I'm right about this change, why has it occurred and how do you see it?

DR. DOBSON: The movie you saw is characteristic of others made during that era, because children in most nations of the world responded that way to their parents. There were exceptions, of course. Rebellion has occurred throughout history - even in biblical times. Remember that King David's son Amnon raped his half sister Tamar, and his other son, Absalom, tried to overthrow the reign of his father. While some of yesterday's families had to deal with upheavals, they have typically been the exception rather than the rule. But today, as you indicated, children and young people are taught to be disrespectful and rebellious by the culture. One of the most effective teachers is the music industry and the excesses it embraces.

It is difficult to overestimate the negative impact contemporary music is having. Rock stars are the he-

FOCUS ON THE

FAMILY

roes, the idols that young people want to emulate.

When they are depicted in violent and sexual roles, many teenagers and preadolescents are pulled along in their wake.

What could possibly be wholesome about showing explicit sex scenes - especially those involving perversion - to 12- and 13-year-old kids? Yet videos come into the home via MTV and other channels that feature men and women in blatantly sexual situations, or even in depictions of sadism.

One study showed that more than half of all MTV videos featured violence or implied violence, and 35 percent revealed violence against women. A steady diet of this garbage will pollute the minds of even the healthiest of teenagers. I believe that this perpetual and pernicious exposure to rock music is responsible, at least in part, for many of the social problems now occurring among the young, including the high suicide rate, the reported willingness of young men to rape women if given an opportunity and the moral undermining of the next generation.

••• 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:

Faith Fellowship Luck

Pilgrim Lutheran happenings FREDERIC – Pilgrim Lutheran Church Worship Service on Sunday centered around The Fifth Sunday after Pentecost. Special music was sung by Hanna, daughter of Brian and Conny Daeffler. She was accompanied on the piano and keyboard by grandma, Mary Lou Daeffler. Her first song was “Amazing Grace” followed by “God Bless America” in celebration of the up-andcoming Fourth of July Holiday.

Music - The public is invited to join Pilgrim Church on Sunday, July 22, at 9 a.m. for worship and to hear the ever popular “Danville Singers” perform.

VBS - Children of all religions are invited to join them for vacation Bible school beginning on Sunday, July 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The whole family is invited to come on the 29th for Registration and a family campfire complete with Smores. VBS will continue on the following week Monday through Thursday, from noon until 4

p.m. Arrangements have been made with the Frederic school so the students attending summer school can ride the bus to Pilgrim around noon, and parents need to pick the children up by 4 p.m. Upon arriving at church, the students will be served lunch and then on with cool crafts, fun songs and zany games. This year’s theme is “The Great Bible Reef” which will have kids swimming with delight as they explore all of God’s creation under the sea! They invite children pre-K through sixth grade to join them, and $10 per student or $20 per family is suggested as a donation.

Harvest dinner – Members of Pilgrim Church are busy working on a harvest dinner to be held on Saturday, Aug. 25, from 4 to 7 p.m. The menu includes roast pork and dressing with applesauce and old-fashioned mashed potatoes and gravy with assorted garden vegetables and homemade pie for dessert. It will be an ex-

citing community-building project for the church. The proceeds from the event will be applied to the Line of Credit that the church has with Bremer Bank.

Sunday school kickoff – Sunday school will resume on Sunday, Sept. 9, at 8:50 a.m. All children pre-K through sixth grade are welcome to join them.

Bake sale – The church will have a Saturday morning bake sale on Sept. 8, from 7 to 11 a.m. at the farmers’ market next to the Leader office in downtown Frederic.

They will be selling home-baked goods.

Mission statement - “Pilgrim Lutheran Church is a family of God, centered in Christ, inviting all people to journey with us in faith, hope and love.”

For more information call the church office at 3278012 or go to their Web site www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org. - submitted

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 29

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

BLACKWELL JOB CORPS CENTER offers Free Federal Training Scholarships for young adults. For tour or information, call 715-674-7654.

For an application contact Julie Eder 715-359-7040.

(CNOW)

PETS

HELP WANTED DRIVER - CDL TRUCK DRIVER TRAINING certified training from Roehl’s RDTC in Marshfield WI! At Roehl Transport earn $38-44-000 1st year; $48-$56,000 3rd year. Lodging, tuition assistance avail. Free training for qualified Veterans. Call 7 days a week. 1-800-535-8177 www.drivertraining.net DRIVER — READY FOR a New Career?

Get CDL Trained and Work for Millis Transfer in Only 3 Weeks.

Earn up to $50K Your First Year! Class A Tractor/Trailer Driver Training. Job Placement Available. 888-7529515 www.millistransfer.com (CNOW) Flatbed Drivers NEW PAY PACKAGE 1 yr Exp. $1000.00 Sign on Bonus Rider & Pet Policy Late Model Kenworths Class A CDL Required 1-877-285-8904 w w w. d a v i s t r a n s p o r t . com MECHANICS: UP TO $20,000 bonus. Keep the Army National Guard Rolling.

Fix Humvees, Strykers, etc.

Expand your skills through career training. Be a soldier. 1800-GO-GUARD.com/mecha nic (CNOW)

REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY — On Hwy 8 in Forest County.

115x75 Butler Steel Building.

Offices, Reception area, shop with three 14x16 overhead doors. $299,000. DORZOK REALTY. (715) 674-3003.

(CNOW)

GREAT DEAL! 130’ sand beach! Reduced $7,490!

Owner needs to sell this central WI waterfront property.

Beautiful secluded setting, only $40, 410. Wisconsin Lakes realty 866-667-4457 www.wislakes.com LARGE WOODED LAKEFRONT! Secluded acreage w/ 120’ frontage on quiet, clear water lake! Only $54,900 till 7/14! Thousand Lakes realty 866-667-4460 www.1000lakes.com NORTH COUNTRY HOMES Is Wisconsin’s #1 in Factory Built Homes for 32 Years.

Drive a Little, Save a Lot! Hwy 47 & 29 Bonduel (715) 758-7500. www.northcountryhomes.com (CNOW) NO DOWNPAYMENT? If PROBLEM CREDIT? you’re motivated and follow our proven, no-nonsense program, we’ll get you into a NEW HOME. Call 1-800-8302006 or visit AmericanHomePartners.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ALL CASH CANDY ROUTE. Do you earn $800 in a day?

Your own local candy route.

Includes 30 Machines and Candy. All for $9,995. 1-888745-3358. MultiVend, LLC. (CNOW) JIMMY’S PIZZA FRANCHISE Opportunity available in Wisconsin. We are expanding and looking for great people and places! Call Greg (320) 293-3362 or visit web site: www.jimmyspizza. com

FOR SALE BIRDSCAPING! A natural sanctuary to attract birds that encourages nesting and feeding year round. Birdhouses, feeders and baths along with natural food sources. 920www.Birdscap745-2382. ing.net BRAND NEW HOTTUB! 3 pump, 50 jets, Fiber optic lights. Waterfall. Full Warranty, Never Used. Cost $8,499, SACRIFICE $3,495.

Can Deliver. (920) 841-0269.

Don. (CNOW) SAWMILLS FROM ONLY $2990.00 — Convert your LOGS TO VALUABLE LUMBER with your own Norwood portable band sawmill. Log skidders also available. www.norwoodindustries.com — FREE information: 1-800578- 1363 - Ext. 500-A. BUILDINGS: STEEL 40x60x12 NOW $8990 REG. $17,000. Others Available.

60x80x14 NOW $24,980 REG $42,000. Price Not adjusted for codes. Www.scggrp.com 888-898-3091.

Source#C00E. Help Erectors or crews wanted.

AS SEEN ON TV. Patented Technology. Used in NASA rockets. Easy to use. Saves big $$ on gas/diesel. 19 month co/$100M/sales/ Top 20 making 50K/month. Fuelgreen, 866-474-6444

EDUCATION NEED HOST PARENTS for German High School Students for all/part of 2007/08 school year. Call Now. Reflections Int’l Exchange Student Program. 608-583-2412.

A.K.C. PUPS: Bassets, Beagles, Cockers, Dachshunds, Labradors, Pomeranians, Schipperkes, Schnauzers, Springers. Terriers: Cairn, Smooth Fox, Scotties, Yorkies, and others. Gerald Schultz. (920) 526-3512.

WANT ADS WE HAVE PARTS for tractors, combines, machinery, hay equipment and more.

Used, new, rebuilt, aftermarket. Downing Tractor Parts, Downing, Wis., 877-5301010. www. asapagparts. com 32Ltfc INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR REMODELING AND REPAIRS. Decks, siding, sidewalks, painting, drywall, texturing, etc. Free estimates, experienced, referAl, Siren. ences.

715-349-5068. 45Lp HELP WANTED IMMEDIATELY. Our office manager has returned to Illinois. Impact Seven, Inc., has an immediate need for an office manager for their growing firm in Almena. Job involves assistance in corporate, administrative and programmatic activities. Supervisor administrative staff, preparation and monitoring of reports, establishing and maintaining file system and database, administration of computer system, etc. Excellent knowledge of computer hardware and software a must. Minimum of two-year technical college education and six years’ experience in the field. Salary is open, dependent upon experience.

Send resume to Impact Seven Inc., 147 Lake Almena Drive, Almena, WI 54805, fax to 715-357-6233 or e-mail to mvinopal@impactseven.org. E.O.E. 45Lp

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT. Multifaceted development firm seeking an experienced accountant to perform proficiently in all accounting functions. Four-year degree in accounting or finance. If not a CPA, willingness to attain such in future. Send resume to: Impact Seven, Inc., 147 Lake Almena Drive, Almena, WI 54805 or mvinopal@impactseven.org. 45Lp FOR SALE: 1997 14x64 mobile home. 3 bedroom, 1 bath, shingled roof, natural gas, central air, new washer and dryer, decks, gas stove, refrigerator, new 10x13 storage shed, 10x10 screened gazebo, has access to Long Lake. Call 715-349-7503.

45Lp FOR SALE: 4.62 acres of land in Frederic area. Nice corner piece. Could be divided into two parcels. Surveyed. On black top, off State Rd. 35. $26,000. 715349-7503. 45Lp FREE KITTENS: Very friendly. 715-327-4427. 4546Lp

The Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

JULY 3, 2007 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 31

Balsam Lake Freedom Fest • 2007 • Burnout Contest

After the liquid was poured on the tires, Dan Peper smoked out the crowd, but after only about 15 seconds one of the rear tires blew out, startling the crowd and stirring cheers for the loud bang in the process.

Danny Peper of Balsam Lake had a few tricks up his sleeve before getting back in his truck to stomp on the gas. Here he pours a little secret ingredient on the tires to create more smoke and heat up his tires a little more.

While everyone else had fun, this little girl looked as though she was ready to leave the action with the loud noise and puffs of smoke that filled the air.

Photos by Marty Seeger

The large crowd wasn’t the only one that had to deal with the smoke on Friday night. This driver had plenty before spinning his tires for a timed 30 seconds.

This Ford Mustang was one of the first cars to kick off the first-annual burnout contest in Balsam Lake on Friday night.

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B- JULY 3, 2007

JULY

TUESDAY/3 Siren

• Burnett County VFW Post #1256 monthly meeting, 7:30 p.m., at the hall.

WEDNESDAY/4

Coming events

Clam Falls

• Fourth of July celebration, parade at 2 p.m., fireworks at dusk. Call 715-653-2525 for more info.

Coming event items are published as a public service. Items must be submitted by 10 a.m. on Mondays to be assured of publication in that week’s issue.

SATURDAY/14 Balsam Lake

• Outside Books Outside. Brad and Jason Levenhagen will be at the library with an interactive program aimed at reintroducing children to nature through nonfiction books. All ages welcome - bring a friend. 715-485-3215 for information.

Falun

• Pie & Ice-cream Social, 1-3 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Frederic • Pokeno played at 1 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center, after Fourth of July potluck.

Frederic • Frederic Senior Citizen, share-a-lunch, noon. Bingo begins at 1:30 p.m. or cards, pool or fellowship. Please bring a dish to share or a monetary donation.

Siren • Freedom Day Celebration, contact Greg Hunter 715-349-5348.

Webster

Webster

• Fourth of July parade, on Main Street. Fire Department Brat Feed and Water Ball Fight.

Call Norm at 715-866-7774 for more info.

THURS.-SAT./5-7 Spooner

• Burnett Community Library offfers luncheon $6 adults. Features Catherine Tripalin Murray and her memories of North Sand Lake, at the Webster Community Center, 11:30 a.m.

• 54th-annual Heart of the North Rodeo, live music, parade, 10k race, BBQ, cowboy church service, bike race, 800-367-3306.

• Great Train Robbery, at 426 N. Front Street. Thurs. 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.; Sat. 9 & 11:15 a.m. Call 715-6353200 for more info.

• “Moonlight & Magnolias,” in a special Red Hat matinee, presented by the Festival Theatre. For more info contact 715-483-3387, 888-887-6002 or www.festivaltheatre.org.

Webster • Central Burnett County Fair, horse pull, truck & tractor pull, demo derby, carnival rides 12-15 rides, live bands & DJ, dance, exhibits, bingo, talent show, animals, plus games & concessions. Call Renelle Sears 715-866-8261 for more info.

THURSDAY/5 Amery

• Line Dancing, 9:30 a.m., at the senior center.

Balsam Lake • American Legion Post #278 & Auxiliary meets, 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall at Pine Park.

Frederic • Al-Anon meeting, 7 p.m., at St. Luke’s Methodist Church. Enter through the back door.

Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

• 500 cards, 6:30 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center. Everyone welcome.

Osceola • Auditions for “Sing Down the Moon” at the ArtBarn, 6:30 p.m. 715-294-2787.

St. Croix Falls • Good Samaritan Auxiliary meets, 1:30 p.m. at the home. Notice change of day!

• American Legion Post 143 monthly meeting and installation of new officers. Cocktails 6 p.m.

Dinner 7 p.m. Meeting to follow.

FRI. - SUN./6 - 8

SUNDAY/15 St. Croix Falls

Summer provides us with simple scenes of tranquility. - Photo by Gary King

Frederic

Dresser

• Frederic Senior Citizen, share-a-lunch, noon. Bingo begins at 1:30 p.m. or cards, pool or fellowship. Please bring a dish to share or a monetary donation.

• Chronic Illness/Disability Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. for a potluck picnic. Peace Lutheran Church is located 1/2 mile NW of Dresser on Clark Road, 715-755-2515 for information.

Indian Creek • Lorain Township Fire Department’s 23rdannual Farm Tractor, Truck Pull, 11 a.m. Call 715-653-2649 or 715-653-2566 for more info.

Luck • Buckwheat Zydeco and Live Earth perform, at Anathoth Community Farm. Bands start at noon. Call 715-472-8797 or 715-4728721 for more info.

FRIDAY/6 Amery

• Birthday Party, 11:45 a.m. at the senior center. RSVP by July 5.

Frederic • Pokeno played at 1 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center.

St. Croix Falls • “Moonlight & Magnolias,” runs through August 12, presented by the Festival Theatre. For more info contact 715-483-3387, 888-887-6002 or www.festivaltheatre.org.

SAT. & SUN./7 & 8 Centuria

• Memory Days.

SATURDAY/7 Balsam Lake

• Balsam Lake Schools all-class reunion, students & teachers K-12 meet at the American Legion in Pine Park, 11 a.m.-? Potluck at noon with beverage provided.

Danbury • Trinity Lutheran Church pie & ice-cream social, 10 a.m.-noon.

• Danbury Days, all day. Parade 11 a.m., bed races, following parade. Duck race, 2 p.m.

Frederic

• Pokeno played at 1 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center.

Luck • Polk/Burnett Winter Texan Picnic, noon, at Big Butternut Lions shelter.

Siren

St. Croix Falls

• Festival Theatre presents By the River, Creativity Day Camp for kids ages 5-12. For more information contact 715-483-3387 or 888887-6002 or www.festivaltheatre.org.

MONDAY/16 Frederic

• American Legion & Auxiliary #249 meeting, 7 p.m. at the legion hall.

• Spades at 1:30 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center. Everyone welcome.

TUESDAY/17 Clam Falls

• Coffee hour, 9 a.m. at the Lutheran Church.

Everyone welcome.

Milltown

• Outdoor Mass St. Dominic and Immaculate Conception Catholic Churches at the Siren Park, 6 p.m. Call 715-327-8119 for more info.

• Polk County United Aging Group meeting, 1:30-3:30 p.m., in the Community Room of Sunnyview Apartments. Barb Ceder will speak on SeniorCare and Medicare savings.

Siren

Rice Lake

• Art in the Alley, at North Winds Art. Call 715349-8448 for times.

• Siren Queen Pageant at the high school, 6 p.m.

• 27th-annual Freedom Five Race. Registration begins at 6 a.m. 715-349-2935 or 715-3498484 for information.

• Troop 1949 Garage/Bake/Craft Sale at the VFW, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• WITC Open House. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 800243-9482 for information.

WEDNESDAY/18

Osceola • Dancing Feet Festival at the ArtBarn, 1 - 9 p.m. 715-294-2787 for information.

Centuria

• Memory Days, Fri.: Queen Coronation at Unity High School, 7 p.m.; Sat.: FFA Alumni 7th-annual 5K Milk Run at 7:30 a.m., Long Lake Fishing contest at 8 a.m.-2 p.m., 7th-annual Car Show at 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., Kiddie Parade, toon time theme at 1 p.m.; Sun.: Queen’s Tea at noon, Grand Parade at 1:30 p.m. and Pull on Main Street, Wisconsin sanctioned Pedal Tractor Pull after parade.

WEDNESDAY/11

MON. - FRI./16 - 20

Webster • Central Burnett County Fair Demo Derby, 7 p.m. at the fairgrounds. Call 715-866-8261 for more info.

SUNDAY/8 Centuria

• Chicken Dinner, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at Fristad Lutheran Church.

Cushing

• Kings Trio at Skonewood Christian Retreat Center, 7 p.m. Everyone welcome.

MONDAY/9 Amery

THURSDAY/12 Amery

• Music at the Pavilion Series: The Wilson Family Singers, 6:30 p.m. For more info www.luckwisconsin.com.

Frederic

THURS.-SUN./ 19-22

• 500 cards, 6:30 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center. Everyone welcome.

Milltown • North Valley Lutheran Church pie and icecream social, 6:30 p.m. Entertainment by Glory Train gospel group.

FRI. - SUN./13 - 15 Turtle Lake

• 53rd-annual Inter-County Fair Days.

FRIDAY/13 Amery

• Bingo at the Amery Senior Center, 608 Harriman Ave. S., 1 p.m.

Frederic

Frederic

• Pokeno played at 1 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center.

• Spades at 1:30 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center. Everyone welcome.

Osceola

• 7th-annual Men’s Member-Guest, at the golf course. Call 715-472-2939 for more info.

• Indianhead Gem & Mineral Society meets, 7 p.m., at the senior citizens center. Meeting at 7:30. Program : Dr. Richard Huset will share experiences in Australia looking for Queensland agates. Potluck as usual.

TUESDAY/10 Amery

• Swedish Club meets 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Church. Topic “History of the Dala Horse.” The public is welcome. Contact Cathy at 715-2695307 for information.

Luck

• Line Dancing for beginners at the Amery Senior Center, 9:30 a.m. 1 & 6 p.m. soap making, $7 for supplies.

• Bingo at the Amery Senior Center, 608 Harriman Ave. S., 6:45 p.m.

Luck

Frederic

• Pokeno played at 1 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center.

• NW Regional Writers combined w/Poco Penners, noon potluck at Iris Holm’s apt. house. Bring dish to pass plus something short to read aloud. To carpool, meet at 11 a.m. in St. Dominics Church parking lot. Further info, contact Mary Jacobsen or Boyd Sutton.

Trade Lake

• Wine-tasting Fundraiser, 6-9 p.m. at the Trade Lake Winery

Webster • Passport Fair, 2-5 p.m., at the post office .

SAT.-SUN./14-15 Indian Creek

• Indian Creek Tavern Softball Tournament.

715-653-2671.

SCF/Taylors Falls

• Wannigan Days: Thursday, 8 p.m. Talent Show; Friday 5 p.m. River Spirit sculpture unveiling; Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Arts & Crafts Fair, 6 p.m. parade; Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. flapjacks at the fire dept. 715-483-3580 or 651465-6365 for information.

THURSDAY/19 Frederic

• 500 cards, 6:30 p.m. at the Frederic Senior Center. Everyone welcome.

Luck • Music at the Pavilion Series: The Danville Family Singers, 6:30 p.m. For more info www.luckwisconsin.com.

Webster • Webster All-school reunion at Ike Walton Lodge, 11 a.m. social hour. Noon dinner, 715866-7101 for information.

FRI.-SUN./20-22 Luck

• Lucky Days Co-ed softball tournament, Call 715-472-8782 or 715-472-8677 for more info.

FRI. & SAT./20 &21 Luck

• 2nd-annual Craft Sale, at The Hardware Store, Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

SAT. & SUN./21 & 22 Grantsburg

• 31st-annual World Championship Snowmobile Watercross, Call 715-463-4269 for more info.