Friday, March 30, 2001
GM stops posting rollover warnings on SUVs
DETROIT -- General Motors Corp. has stopped voluntarily posting federal rollover-warning labels on its latest mid-sized sport utility vehicles, saying it is not convinced they make much difference.
Sleek new Elantra smooths out Hyundai's rough edges
The Hyundai Elantra sure isn't what it used to be.
Traffic fatalities rise slightly as motorcycle deaths increase
WASHINGTON -- The number of people killed in traffic accidents increased slightly last year, partly due to yet another jump in fatal motorcycle accidents.
Consumers' choices
DETROIT -- As new vehicle segments and engine technologies come onto the market, improving almost every make and model, Japanese and German brands still dominate that respected American benchmark of automotive quality, Consumer Reports' annual survey of new and used cars.
Energy crisis may not be so bad
America needs a real energy crisis, something packed with pain.
2002 Ford Explorer XLT: A new look after a setback
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The wind blew west at 20 mph, pushing a heavy mist across the roads of this chilled industrial town.
Delphi issues earnings warning, says will cut 11,500 jobs
DETROIT (AP) -- Delphi Automotive Systems Corp., the world's largest auto parts supplier, said Thursday it will cut 11,500 jobs under a major restructuring plan prompted by a soft auto market.
Metals
NEW YORK (AP) -- Spot nonferrous metal prices Wednesday.
Church briefs
NISSWA -- There will be a healing conference at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. April 6 and 7 at Grand View Lodge with Cal Pierce from Spokane, Wash. He will speak on healing and ministering to the sick and hurting. Call 825-7347 for more information.
Hyperactive boy could benefit by repeating first grade
QUESTION: My 6-year-old son has always been an energetic child with some of the symptoms of hyperactivity. He has a short attention span and flits from one activity to another. I took him to his pediatrician, who said he did not have attention deficit disorder. However, he's beginning to have learning problems in school because he can't stay in his seat and concentrate on his lessons. What should I do?
Conservative parish rejects liberal bishop's ministry
PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- For the second time in a month, Episcopalian Bishop Charles Bennison Jr. will be seated in the congregation -- but not invited into the pulpit -- at a conservative parish opposed to his liberal views on issues like the ordination of women.
Mormon church president urges girls to stay chaste
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Resist temptation and stay away from premarital sex, Mormon church president Gordon B. Hinckley told a gathering of girls.
Putin replaces rabbi on Kremlin advisory board
MOSCOW (AP) -- President Vladimir Putin replaced the rabbi who previously represented Russian Jews on a Kremlin advisory council with a rival from an ultra-Orthodox movement, a Kremlin spokeswoman said Wednesday.
A Passover challenge for Judaism:
"The Exodus was to Israel as the Norman Conquest is to England or the American Revolution to the United States: a pivotal event that serves as a historical watershed."
'In the beginning ...'
How did the universe originate? The Bible's opening words give the age-old answer:
Mega-churches find new ways to handle large congregations
LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The volunteers dreaded going to church each Thursday evening to begin filling the more than 350 trays for Sunday's Holy Communion. It took seven people up to 30 hours over three days to fill communion cups for the congregation at Southeast Christian Church, which has more than 15,000 members.
Happy birthing day!
Dear Heloise: Recently, on my 61st birthday, I gave my 92-year-old mother, Edna Melrose, a "BIRTHING" day party. In the twilight of her life, what better way for a grateful daughter to say THANK YOU.
Friend helps turn on light about woman's controlling husband
DEAR ABBY: The letter from "At My Wit's End," whose best friend's husband was insanely jealous, prompted me to write.
Husband's office confidante goes too far for jealous wife
DEAR ABBY: A woman in my husband's office buys him gifts. They run the gamut from little personal things to expensive, imported items.
Secret space
Dear Heloise: I am making great use of heretofore UNUSED SPACE in both my kitchen and laundry room. And no one knows about it but me!
Livestock
Compared Tuesday, not enough slaughter steers or heifers offered to test price trends. Holstein steers steady to weak. Slaughter cows steady to weak in a light test. Bulls scarce.
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Thursday 191, a year ago 433.
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Wednesday 142, a year ago 162.
Livestock
Compared Wednesday, not enough slaughter steers, heifers or Holstein steers offered for a price trend. Slaughter cows steady to firm. Bulls steady.
Healthy snack full of flavor and takes no time to make
The recipe for Not-Your-Everyday Turkey Sandwiches was worked out by Cynthia Nicholson, food editor of Country Living magazine, as a solution to the perennial dilemma of how to contrive healthful snacks that don't sacrifice flavor or demand hours in the kitchen.
It's easy to add flavor to low-fat scallops dish
One of the ways of making low-fat dishes pleasing to diners is to make sure the dishes are full of flavor.
Make your own candy this Easter
While I was recently going through my recipes planning for Easter, I came upon my favorite candy recipes.
School lunch menus
BRAINERD
Births
Darin and Katharine (Deuser) Olson, Brainerd, a boy, Jack Christian, 8 pounds, 7 ounces, March 1, 2001. Grandparents are Roger and Jean Olson, Columbia Heights, and Tom and Pam Deuser, Coon Rapids.
Accidents
IRONTON -- Two people were injured in a single-vehicle rollover reported at 11 p.m. March 22 on County Road 102 at Irondale Township Road 238.
Court
WALKER -- The following recently appeared in Cass County District Court:
Bush plans to change police program
WASHINGTON -- The Bush administration has decided to severely scale back a popular Clinton-era program that has put tens of thousands of new police officers on the streets, devoting a "lion's share" of the remaining money to school security officers in the wake of the San Diego shootings, officials said.
Senate argues last big issues on campaign bill
WASHINGTON -- Senate supporters of campaign finance legislation turned back yet another attempt to derail the bill Thursday and President Bush said his decision on signing it would be based on whether it improves the system for funding elections.
Wenzel would back new Twins stadium plan
Is the Legislature ready to play ball?
Howes reappointed to IRRRB post
Rep. Larry Howes, R-Walker, was reappointed by Minnesota Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum to serve on the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board.
Bush answers critics of environmental policies
WASHINGTON -- President Bush responded forcefully Thursday to critics of his environmental policies, declaring that America's energy and economic concerns must take priority over global concerns.
GOP confident Bush budget will pass
WASHINGTON -- Republicans say they are collecting enough votes to push an outline of President Bush's tax and spending plan through the Senate, though the battle continues over undecided lawmakers from both parties.
Senate ready to OK campaign reform bill
WASHINGTON -- Two weeks of Senate debate has produced the most sweeping overhaul of campaign finance law in a quarter-century, a bill, nearing passage, that could reduce donations to political parties by hundreds of millions of dollars a year.
Analysis
WASHINGTON -- From the environment and workplace safety to the laws governing debt collection and patient protection, President Bush in just two months has emphatically defined himself as a champion of business interests resisting federal regulation.
Bush vows to work for equal justice, opportunity
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush met anew with black leaders on Thursday, promising black farmers, business owners and college presidents that he will use his time in the White House to "speak for the values that unite our country."
Childhood rickets is making a comeback
ATLANTA -- Childhood rickets -- a bone-softening disease that had become so rare the government stopped keeping statistics on it -- is making a comeback, in part because some youngsters are not getting enough sunlight, health officials say.
Hotels undergo redesign
In the past, grand hotels, with their swagged and fringed draperies and brocade and bergere furnishings, were often the inspiration for home design.
Decorate your home bit by bit; it's easier on your budget
With instant gratification seemingly the law of the land, it's nice to know that decorating on the installment plan can be more satisfying than getting it all done the day after tomorrow.
Annual home show to feature more booths, expanded food court, children's activities
Housing hints are likely from every direction at the 20th annual Home and Patio Show and Parade of Homes set a week from today.
Tub features 'waterfall'
Imagine, after a day of hard work, coming home and dipping yourself in a sweetly running stream, your head pillowed on soft moss, the running water -- did we mention this river is fed by a hot spring? -- soothing aching muscles and relaxing your frenzied mind.
You don't have to re-side entire house to fix damage
I've had plenty of phone calls over the years from homeowners who are convinced they have to re-side their entire house because some of their siding has been damaged by water.
New type of wall covering is designed to eliminate the hassle of installation
Many do-it-yourselfers are reluctant to have anything to do with wallpaper because, despite advances in the last few years, it's still somewhat difficult for an amateur to handle.
Oil sprays can be useful
This time of year some gardeners pour oil and water into their sprayers, swirl the mixture around, and apply the first spray of the season: dormant oil.
Housing briefs
NISSWA -- Vicki Moen joined Positive North GMAC Real Estate in Nisswa.
Decorating can be done in an afternoon
Did you know you can order art-quality photography at a pittance from the Library of Congress, or that you can turn a flea-market find into a lamp with decorative mountings available at almost any lamp shop?
House & Garden revisits the 20th-century home
NEW YORK -- A home's doorway is like a gateway. What's inside says much about the people who live there -- no matter what they do, what they wear or how they present themselves on the other side of that door.
Repair lawn when snow melts to be ready for summer
If your lawn turns out to have bare patches, early spring will be a good time to fix them.
Real estate Q & A
How do I arrange financing to buy my home?
Make the most of a steel pole
A steel pole is as good as it gets when it comes to structural support. However, such a round steel column can be an eyesore when poised beneath a beautiful wooden patio cover made of square-edged wood trim.
Pesticides aren't always the easy answer in homes with children
NEW YORK -- Young children are explorers. They visit every single corner of the house, roll around on every single blade of grass in the yard and seem to put every single thing in their path into their mouths.
To repair leaky toilet tank, first find the leak
Q. Volker P. asks: How do I change a leaking toilet tank?
Local briefs
A Maroon and Gold Day open house is set Tuesday at the University of Minnesota Extension Service's Crow Wing County office.
Time to set the clocks ahead
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Many Americans will lose an hour's sleep this weekend.
Local briefs
Property tax statements have been mailed.
Manufacturer seeks TIF funding
In an effort to expand its facilities and business, Lexington Manufacturing is requesting tax-increment financing assistance from the city of Brainerd.
Brainerd psychiatrist receives reprimand
A Brainerd psychiatrist, Dr. Richard O. Walker Jr., was reprimanded for unprofessional and unethical conduct.
C-I School Board delays action on anticipated program and staff cuts
CROSBY -- The Crosby-Ironton School Board on Monday delayed any discussion or action on anticipated cuts it will have to make to programs and staff.
Political types analyze census figures' effect on district lines
Few Brainerd area residents were more eager to pore over Minnesota's 2000 census figures than state Senate District 12 political junkies.
Gas pump prices take big jump
If you needed to fill up your vehicle's gas tank Wednesday and didn't get a chance you'll be paying for it today.
Community college music festival
Michelle Sakry-Winkelman, Central Lakes College music instructor, accompanied the Festival Choir as it rehearsed Thursday under conductor Tim Sawyer of Northwestern College for today's 5 p.m. concert at Breezy Point Resort. More than 300 two-year college vocal and instrumental music students will perform in the free, one-hour event that concludes the Fine Arts Association Music Festival.
Local briefs
PINE RIVER -- The Cass County Environmental Services Department will meet at 1 p.m. Monday at the Pine River American Legion Club to review a proposed county feedlot ordinance.
COMING FRIDAY
Parade of Homes and the Home and Patio Show is set April 6-8 in Brainerd. Look for a preview story in Friday's Housing section.
Area cities
Baxter 5,555 3,695 50.3
Franklin student suspended for having a knife at school
A Franklin Junior High School student was suspended for carrying a knife on school grounds March 14.
Sorting books for sale
Ruth Gogolin, a volunteer with the Friends of the Brainerd Public Library, sorted books Wednesday for the used book sale scheduled from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the library. (Dispatch Photo by Steve Kohls)
This was Brainerd
20 years ago (1981) - Brainerd School District's financial picture has taken on a rosier look as local cost slashing and the expected return of state funding cuts took effect.
Population changes for Minnesota cities with populations over 5,000
Albert Lea 18,356 18,310 0.25
Death march survivors to walk again
Pardon Henry Peck if he's not excited about reliving part of the Bataan Death March in New Mexico this weekend.
Kinkel calls for support on drug program
ST. PAUL --Sen. Tony Kinkel, DFL-Park Rapids, called on fellow legislators to expand the state's Prescription Drug Program and pass the Fair Pricing Act as proposed by Sen. John Hottinger, DFL-Mankato, and Sen. Dallas Sams, DFL-Staples.
Counties
Aitkin County 15,301 12,425 23.1
How the area compares -- CENSUS 2000
As the rural Minnesota districts get larger, the people representing those areas have to spend more resources to keep in touch with constituents.
Former U.S. Senate candidate talks about his campaign at CLC
Former U.S. Senate candidate Jim Gibson reflected on his 2000 campaign, the future of the Independence Party and Gov. Jesse Ventura at a noon forum Thursday at Central Lakes College in Brainerd.
County population changes
Minnesota 4,919,479 4,375,099 12.44
AT THE LIBRARY
With kickoff of National Library Week on Monday, the Brainerd Public Library wants people to visit and see what's new.
This was Brainerd
MARCH 29 - 40 years ago (1961)< - Supermarket Easter Specials! -- Easter ham, shank half, lb. 39 -- Whole ham, lb. 45 -- Grade "A" large eggs, 2 doz. 89
Census: Lakes area in huge growth path
The Brainerd lakes area is part of a growth corridor that stretches northwest from the Twin Cities metro area along Highway 10 through St. Cloud.
Ninth Judicial District judges seek more funding
Judges in the Ninth Judicial District on Thursday supported the system's $86.6 million legislative request, citing funding shortcomings that have led some jurists to refer to their courtrooms as "McJustice."
County sells tax-forfeited land for $60,000
The Crow Wing County Board agreed to sell tax-forfeited land in the Norrgard Addition to Brainerd for about $60,000.
NEWS BRIEFS
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) -- James Kopp, accused of killing abortion doctor Barnett Slepian in 1998, has been arrested in France, the Erie County prosecutor said Thursday.
Experts warn of big gas price hike
WASHINGTON -- With the summer driving season just two months away, the nation's gasoline inventories are even lower than last year's strained supplies and motorists again face a risk of a big jump in fuel prices, government and industry analysts warn.
Spending, incomes rise solidly
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Consumers were more frugal in February after a January buying binge but they still spent at a moderate pace. Incomes rose a bit more quickly than spending.
Appeals court: Site targeting abortion doctors is protected
SAN FRANCISCO -- An anti-abortion Web site that listed the names and addresses of abortion doctors, branded them "baby butchers" and criminals is protected by the First Amendment, a federal appeals court has ruled.
Twin-engine jet smashes into Aspen hillside, killing all 18 on board
ASPEN, Colo. -- Investigators worked their way through a hillside littered with scorched wreckage on Friday and recovered the bodies of 18 people aboard a twin-engine jet that crashed as it approached this posh ski resort town.
Book: A remorseless McVeigh calls dead children 'collateral damage'
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Detailing his motives in the Oklahoma City bombing for the first time publicly, Timothy McVeigh says he pulverized the federal building to avenge Waco and Ruby Ridge -- and that he regrets having killed children only because it undercut his cause.
Poll method
The Associated Press poll on the economy is based on telephone interviews with 1,007 adults from all states except Alaska and Hawaii. The interviews were conducted March 23-27 by ICR of Media, Pa.
Screen beauty from the 1930s Toby Wing dies at 85
Toby Wing, the original Goldwyn Girl "with a face like the morning sun" who wore diamond rings from a string of celebrated fiances before marrying pioneering aviator Henry Tindall "Dick" Merrill, has died. She was 85.
Air Force plane attacks Iraqi anti-aircraft artillery site
WASHINGTON (AP) -- A U.S. Air Force F-15E warplane attacked an anti-aircraft artillery site in southern Iraq on Friday in response to what U.S. officials called recent Iraqi attempts to shoot down U.S. and British pilots.
Florida Senate votes to close Earnhardt autopsy photos to public
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Spurred on by fans of racing star Dale Earnhardt, the Florida Senate voted 40-0 Thursday to close autopsy photos from public record.
Feds plan to seek extradition of suspect in slaying of abortion doctor
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- After allegedly gunning down an abortion doctor, authorities say James Kopp fled overseas and led a solitary life with the help of allies in New York and elsewhere.
Energy crisis could cost billions, says California's controller
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Even with customers paying up to 46 percent more for electricity, California's financial controller says the state faces a $7.4 billion shortfall over the next 18 months if it keeps buying power.
Mitsubishi settles racial bias lawsuit
PEORIA, Ill. -- Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America has agreed to pay more than $1 million to minority workers who sued the automaker for racial discrimination under a settlement approved Thursday.
Bush urges Israel to restrain use of military
WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Bush. striking a neutral stance, urged Israel to restrain its use of military might in responding to terrorism and called on Yasser Arafat to speak out forcibly and clearly to condemn violence.
Poll suggests less enthusiasm for Social Security-stock market idea
WASHINGTON -- Americans' enthusiasm for a plan that would let them invest some of their Social Security contributions in the stock market has dropped significantly since late last year, according to an Associated Press poll.
Contested nuclear waste convoy arrives at dump
GORLEBEN, Germany (AP) -- A shipment of nuclear waste reached a German dump Thursday after a troubled railway trip from France that sparked massive environmental protests, leading to dozens of injuries and hundreds of arrests.
THE FINAL FOUR
At The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
Rangers rough up Redman
FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) -- Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Mark Redman is relieved the regular season is still six days away. If his outing Wednesday against the Texas Rangers counted, he wouldn't be smiling.
Bo Ryan expected to get Wisconsin job
MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Bo Ryan has waited all his life to coach at Wisconsin. He even applied nine years ago.
Key issues: Coaching, security, tourneys
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Security is the hot topic at the Final Four.
Amaker headed for Michigan
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) -- Michigan needed two weeks to find the coach it wants to lead the Wolverines' basketball team.
Panthers sign Steussie
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Todd Steussie, the two-time Pro Bowl left tackle who helped the Minnesota Vikings rack up an NFL-record 556 points during the 1998-1999 season, has signed a four-year contract with the Carolina Panthers.
Forget the glass slippers this time
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- A warning to anyone who cried when Jim Valvano won, cheered when Villanova stunned Georgetown or felt warm and fuzzy when Danny Manning led Kansas to its improbable title: This is not your Final Four.
Falling off the tenure track
MINNEAPOLIS -- If it seems a lot of college basketball coaches have been standing in the unemployment line lately, just wait. Recent history suggests another two dozen or so will join them in the coming weeks.
After further review... NFL owners decide to keep instant replay for three more seasons
PALM DESERT, Calif -- The NFL extended its instant replay system for three years as league meetings concluded Wednesday, and also fixed loopholes in several rules and banned bandannas and other unapproved headgear.
Average baseball ticket price reaches $18.99
NEW YORK (AP) -- It's fitting that baseball keeps naming new ballparks after banks -- fans need cash machines before they sing "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" this spring.
Arizona's Woods must be spartan on the boards
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- Loren Woods doesn't want to talk about himself.
Walton can talk the talk and walk the walk
It may be hard for those not familiar with Bill Walton's background to envision a time when he couldn't talk.
Women's basketball honors given
ST. LOUIS (AP) -- Ruth Riley and Muffet McGraw, who led Notre Dame to its first No. 1 ranking and second Final Four, won The Associated Press player and coach of the year awards in women's basketball.
Garciaparra will wait to decide about surgery
FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) -- Nomar Garciaparra said from the beginning that he considers surgery the absolute last option to repair his right wrist. Now, he's proving he meant it.
Herbert Block
PIERZ -- Herbert Block, 83, Pierz, died Wednesday, March 28, 2001, at his home.
Warren Hazelton
GREENSBURG, Pa. -- Warren Hazelton, 84, Greensburg, Pa., formerly of the Bennettville Community, died Thursday, March 29, 2001, in Pittsburgh.
Zella Meyer
Zella Meyer, 95, Brainerd, died Thursday, March 29, 2001, at St. Joseph's Medical Center.
Doras Christian
PALISADE -- Doras Christian, 86, Palisade, died today, March 30, 2001, at Riverwood Health Care Center in Aitkin.
Ruth A. (Burner) Huffman
BILLINGS, Mont. -- Ruth A. Huffman, 86, Billings, Mont., formerly of Brainerd, died Thursday, March 29, 2001, at Deaconess Medical Center of cancer.
James E. Imgrund
STAPLES -- James E. Imgrund, 76, Staples, died Wednesday, March 28, 2001, at St. Cloud Hospital.
Alois Maciej
LITTLE FALLS -- Alois Maciej, 77, Bowlus, died Thursday, March 29, 2001, at St. Gabriel's Hospital in Little Falls.
Gloria J. Strom
LITTLE FALLS -- Gloria J. Strom, 66, Little Falls, died today, March 30, 2001, at her home.
Bernard 'Uncle Bud' Rivet
WOODBURY -- Bernard "Uncle Bud" Rivet, 78, Woodbury, died Saturday, March 24, 2001, at Woodwinds Health Campus in Woodbury.
How to contact state legislators
Area legislators and how to contact them.
Open Forum guidelines
The Dispatch encourages readers to sound off in the Open Forum.
Open Forum
Recently the area's first Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allied (GLBTA) citizens statewide conference was held at one of B
A Twins stadium - Dispatch Editorial
Anyway you look at it, the push for a government-subsidized ballpark for the Minnesota Twins is an awfully hard sell to make at the 2001 Legislature.
Open Forum
I'm writing about the article on the front page of Sunday's newspaper about the couple having a hard time leaving the Minnesota Family Investment Program.
Ventura no longer a breath of fresh air
The following editorial appeared recently in the Crookston Daily Times.
College hoops
Ok. You've updated your fridge grid and stocked up with munchies for this weekend's big college basketball games. But have you thought about what you'll be watching?
Term limits - Dispatch Editorial
When Sen. Paul Wellstone announced recently that he is withdrawing his pledge not to seek a third term, cries of outrage were notably absent. This would have been unthinkable when Wellstone made the pledge when he first ran in 1990.
Labonte lags behind
It's been six weeks since Bobby Labonte last looked at the Winston Cup standings. The season has started so poorly for the series champion, he doesn't want to know how bad things really are.
Stewart faces fine over Gordon collision
BRISTOL, Tenn. -- The NASCAR slush fund is certain to get a hefty donation from Tony Stewart this week.
Florida restricts access to autopsy photos
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- With the widow of race car driver Dale Earnhardt at his side, Gov. Jeb Bush signed a bill Thursday to keep autopsy photos closed to the public unless a judge approves their release.
ON TRACK
NASCAR
Wood Brothers are back
Elliott Sadler's improbable victory hadn't even been digested, yet Eddie Wood was back at the track trying to figure out if one of NASCAR's pioneer teams was about to start a renaissance.
Man dies when he's caught in power takeoff
'ALTURA, Minn. (AP) -- A rural Altura man was killed after he got caught in a power takeoff in southeastern Minnesota.
Princeton unseals Lindbergh documents
PRINCETON, N.J. -- Controversial manuscripts written by Charles and Anne Lindbergh on the eve of World War II and thousands of letters in response to them have been unsealed by Princeton University.
Abortion controls debate over family-planning grants
ST. PAUL -- Abortion opponents scored their third victory in as many days late Thursday by getting language in a health funding bill to freeze out family-planning grants for groups that provide or refer for abortions.
Ventura maintains goal is tax reform, not tax cuts
ST. PAUL -- Despite weeks of pummeling from all sides over his budget, Gov. Jesse Ventura isn't budging.
Census: Minnesota growing faster in its urban areas
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Following a trend seen in other Great Plains states, Minnesota became more urban and slightly more diverse in the last 10 years as rural counties lost population or grew more slowly than urban counties.
Panel sinks accountability measures for charter schools
ST. PAUL (AP) -- A bill for a charter-school board survived a House committee. One for added fiscal accountability did not.
Classes resume despite strike in state school district
WEST ST. PAUL (AP) -- Schools in the West St. Paul-Mendota Heights-Eagan district reopened Friday despite a strike by 230 bus drivers, food service workers and teachers' assistants.
Nation's largest anti-abortion group blasts Ventura
ST. PAUL (AP) -- The leader of a national anti-abortion group lashed out at Gov. Jesse Ventura on Friday, charging that his stance against a "Choose Life" license plate is an affront to free speech.
Measure killed to sell wine in grocery stores
ST. PAUL (AP) -- A measure to allow wine sales in Minnesota grocery stores was withdrawn Thursday just before a House committee was expected to consider it.
Local sports shorts
Chris Nelson has named the most valuable player of the Brainerd Warriors adapted floor hockey team.
Scoreboard
Track and Field
Local shorts
Brainerd High School graduate Todd Revenig pitched a scoreless ninth inning for the Arizona Diamondbacks in a 12-5 win over the Chicago White Sox in Cactus League action Tuesday in Tucson, Ariz.
Scoreboard
Track and Field
Brainerd people will be involved in a game for life
Some serious basketball games will be played in Minnesota this weekend. Games with consequences. Games involving life and death issues. Games you might want to think about putting some money on.
Brainerd skiers make it to nationals
If you climb to the top of the tallest ski hill in the Brainerd lakes area and peer into the horizon, you can see all the way to Idaho.
Twins, Radke tune up for opener
FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) -- The Minnesota Twins unveiled their probable opening day lineup Thursday afternoon at Hammond Stadium. The Boston Red Sox were only able to come up with about two-thirds of theirs.
Rickert heads AP's All-State team
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- And The Associated Press player of the year goes to ... Rick Rickert.
Wild help Coyotes gain playoff ground
ST. PAUL (AP) -- With five games left, the Phoenix Coyotes are in control of their playoff future.
Moss not backing down from criticism
ST. PAUL (AP) -- Randy Moss isn't backing down from the critical comments he made following the Minnesota Vikings' 41-0 loss to the New York Giants in the NFC Championship in January.
Garnett's miss sinks Timberwolves
SEATTLE (AP) -- With the ball in his hands, his team down by one and the last seconds ticking away, Kevin Garnett did what he had done the entire fourth quarter against Patrick Ewing.
Entertainment Guide
For week of March 29-April 4; bands perform from 9 p.m. to close with no cover unless otherwise noted.
'Heartbreakers' steals top spot at box office
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The mother-daughter con-artist comedy "Heartbreakers" swiped the top spot at the box office from hard-boiled cop Steven Seagal.
Dramatic lighting scheme to guide CLC's 'Woman in Mind' production
The modern drama "Woman in Mind," which opens next week at Central Lakes College, features two professional actors in prominent roles and a covey of community theater veterans in the others.
Best Bets
Community college student musicians from around the state are gathering this week at Breezy Point Resort for the annual Minnesota Fine Arts Festival, devoted largely to training from visiting vocal and instrumental directors.
Best music
Billboard Hot 100
CLC summer theatre sneak preview to be offered
Central Lakes College Theatre, Brainerd, will host an open house at 6 p.m. Monday, April 16, in Dryden Theatre for those interested in the 2001 summer theatre season.
CLC to hold auditions for Geritol Frolics production 'Comedy Tonight'
The Central Lakes College Theatre Department will hold auditions for the spring production of The Geritol Frolics at 10 a.m. Saturday in the music room on the Brainerd campus.
Television movies fading away at the big networks
NEW YORK -- NBC has shown movies on Sunday nights for 20 years. This fall, the theater goes dark.
CLC Jazz Concert
The Central Lakes College Jazz Concert will be at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, at the Staples campus of CLC.
Rejecting television isn't hard, say families who have
GEORGIA, Vt. -- The numbers are staggering.
Auditions for 'Godspell' set in Little Falls
LITTLE FALLS -- The Hole in the Day Players will hold auditions for the musical "Godspell" from 7 to 9 p.m. April 5 and 6 at Little Falls Community High School.
Jean Shepard to perform show in Sandstone
SANDSTONE -- Jean Shepard will perform shows at 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday at Midwest Country Music Theater in Sandstone.
Oscar winner for animated short gets TV for giving shortest speech
LOS ANGELES -- And the television set goes to ... Michael Dudok de Wit, who gave the shortest acceptance speech at Sunday's Academy Awards.
Guthrie Theater to bring 'Molly Sweeney' to Staples
STAPLES -- When Guthrie Theater administrators gathered to plan this year's touring schedule, one site that came quickly to mind was the Staples-Motley School District, said a Guthrie official.
Maple syruping events occurring across state
Tourism events around the state of Minnesota this week, as provided by the Minnesota Office of Tourism. For more information, visit http://www.exploreminnesota.com or call (800) 657-3700 or (651) 296-5029 in the Twin Cities area.
Brainerd author to host book signing
Author Wendy Rosnau will hold a book signing from 3 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at Cattales, 609 Laurel St., Brainerd, for her new release, "A Younger Woman."
Community college students to give concert
BREEZY POINT -- Community college music students from around the state will entertain the public Friday with a vocal and instrumental performance, starting at 5 p.m. in Breezy Point Resort's convention center.
'Enemy at the Gates' is good movie, but story line loses its focus along the way
As every student of World War II knows, the Battle of Stalingrad was a pivotal event in the failure of Adolf Hitler's grand design for dominating Europe.
Air Force ensemble to give Brainerd concert
Stellar Brass, a U.S. Air Force Band of the Rockies, will perform a concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 5, in Tornstrom Auditorium, Washington Middle School, Brainerd.
ABC wins ratings week behind Oscar telecast
NEW YORK -- Television networks will usually jump for joy at programs with nearly 43 million or 23 million viewers, but not necessarily this week.
Youths to be integrated into symphony's spring concerts
Students will be the focus of the Heartland Symphony Orchestra's spring concert, which will be performed at 7:30 p.m
KAXE to celebrate 25 years
GRAND RAPIDS -- KAXE, the Grand Rapids-based public radio station, will celebrate its 25th birthday next month. It broadcasts on the FM channel at 89.5 in Brainerd.
String musician to perform in Little Falls
LITTLE FALLS -- Little Falls House Concerts will present Paul Imholte at 7:30 p.m. April 5 at Jason's Casual Dining in Little Falls.
Fine Arts Student of the Week
Christopher Jabs' long-term plan for a career in music academics will start this summer with a four-year hitch in the Air Force.
Capsule reviews of movies playing in Brainerd/Baxter listed
"Exit Wounds" -- This Steven Seagal movie is never really surprising, but its action scenes are thrilling and the story of corrupt, drug-dealing cops rings true-to-life -- to a degree, of course. It's like a cartoon version of
Former New York Mills Regional Cultural Center director to be honored posthumously at Minnesota Book Awards
NEW YORK MILLS -- Jolie Lynne Sasseville and James Drey Alzheimer will be awarded the Kay Sexton Award posthumously at the 13th annual Minnesota Book Awards.
Snow is melting
Weather drawing by Abbey Buchta of Mr. Meyer's second grade class at Lowell school.
Minnesota state forecast
Dense fog advisory this morning parts of south and central minnesota...
Wisconsin state forecast
Today...Mostly cloudy with areas of rain and snow gradually ending. Highs from the upper 30s to middle 40s.
Raw weather
Weather drawing by Cody Roehl of Sharon Jendro's first grade class at Lowell school.
State forecast for South Dakota
Today...Mostly cloudy. Areas of fog til mid morning east. Widely scattered light showers developing west into south. Highs from near 40 northeast to around 50 west and south.
The Weather Elsewhere
Temperatures indicate Wednesday's high and overnight low to 8 a.m. Eastern Time.
State forecast for South Dakota
Wind advisory northwest this afternoon...
Minnesota state forecast
Dense fog advisory west central to southwest this morning...
State forecast for North Dakota
Today...Becoming windy west and central. Otherwise mostly cloudy with a chance of rain showers statewide...With snow showers possible near the canadian border. Thunderstorms possible this afternoon southeast. Highs in the lower to middle 40s.
Regional Forecast
HighLowPR
Iowa state forecast
Dense fog advisory for a small part of the northwest through mid morning...
Iowa state forecast
Today...Areas of fog early...Otherwise cloudy with widely scattered showers. Highs in the 40s northeast to near 60 southwest.
State forecast for North Dakota
Today...Cloudy east. Becoming partly sunny west and central. A chance of showers south central and southwest in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 30s northeast to the lower 50s southwest.
Wisconsin state forecast
Today...Mostly cloudy with areas of fog and drizzle. A chance of showers mainly north and west. Highs upper 30s to upper 40s.
Regional Weather
HighLowPR
Names and faces
RENO, Nev. (AP) -- The story of gutsy legal assistant Erin Brockovich earned Julia Roberts a best-actress Oscar, but the real-life Brockovich's courtroom drama continues -- this time starring her second husband.
What's doing
Duplicate bridge is played at 6:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Lakes Area Senior Center. North-South: Cliff and LuVerne J
Senior activities
LAKES AREA SENIOR
Allies stunned, angry over Bush decision to reject global warming treaty
BRUSSELS-- The Bush administration's decision to reject an international treaty designed to combat global warming provoked a stunned and angry reaction Wednesday among America's allies in Europe and Japan. Many of them urged the United States to reconsider.
Britain's election hangs in balance as foot-and-mouth disease spreads
LONDON -- Prime Minister Tony Blair on Friday put off a decision on whether to vaccinate some dairy cattle in the fight against foot-and-mouth disease, because of resistance from farmers.
Macedonia fighting spills into Kosovo, killing two
SKOPJE, Macedonia (AP) -- Fighting between the Macedonian army and ethnic Albanian insurgents spilled over into neighboring Kosovo, killing two people and adding to international pressure for negotiations to end the violence.
Palestinian protests turn violent
JERUSALEM (AP) -- Large-scale protests swept the West Bank and Gaza Strip on Friday, with thousands of Palestinians hurling stones at Israeli soldiers, who responded by firing live rounds and rubber bullets. A Palestinian man was killed and dozens were injured.