Friday, April 13, 2001
Dodge hopes to gain two-door status with Stratus
Baby Boomers are on the minds of auto executives these days, especially at DaimlerChrysler where officials hope the new, redesigned Dodge Stratus and Chrysler Sebring coupes will lure Boomers back to two-door cars.
Professor's soybean car used to promote biodiesel
BISMARCK, N.D. -- With two rooftop tanks and a dashboard built to hold a computer and toggle switches, Dwight Baumann's car doesn't look like a regular 1984 Volvo diesel. And when it's running on soybean oil, it doesn't smell like one either.
Panel opens hearing on rollover ratings
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Government engineers are trying to figure out the best way to tell prospective buyers the probability that a vehicle would roll over in a crash.
Ford warns of shattering rear glass in Explorers
DETROIT -- Ford Motor Co. is warning customers of a defect that can break the rear windows on some 2002-model Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer sport utility vehicles.
Report: After staff cuts, IRS letting many tax cheats slide by
NEW YORK (AP) -- The Internal Revenue Service has virtually given up trying to go after more than a million tax delinquents -- a move that effectively wrote off more than $2.5 billion in taxes owed to the government last year alone, The New York Times reported Friday.
IRS chief says money, technology to reverse decline in tax audits
WASHINGTON -- An infusion of money and improved technology will begin to reverse the decline in Internal Revenue Service audits, which agency chief Charles Rossotti says are essential to ensure compliance. But he has a warning for those tempted to cheat.
Tech workers left with huge tax debt after stock option buys go sour
Thousands of rank-and-file technology workers are facing huge tax bills by Monday's income tax filing deadline because of company stock they purchased last year that has since plummeted in value.
Tax code more complicated than ever
WASHINGTON -- Some evidence that the tax code is getting impossibly complicated: More than half a million taxpayers paid the federal government an average of $610 apiece more than they owed in 1998 because they chose the standard deduction when they could have itemized.
Wholesale prices fall 0.1 percent in March
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Wholesale prices fell in March, led by a record drop in the price of natural gas used in homes. Retail sales were lackluster, fresh evidence of the weak economy.
Inventories post biggest drop in almost five years
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Inventories of unsold goods held by U.S. businesses in February registered the biggest decline in almost five years.
Churches
Students who were recently confirmed at St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Nisswa
A season of joy
This is the season of pure joy for Christians, even for Jesus knowing what He was in for in the next few days. Heb 12:2 tells us, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Just try to listen to the sound of silence
I got up early the other day and looked outside. Here and there on the dark lawn, the silent, falling mist formed droplets that sparkled in the filtered moonlight. It was a perfectly silent morning. I hopped in the truck and drove away, radio off, to my favorite health center. Once there, it didn't take long to break the mood.
Children's temperaments reflect their parents'
QUESTION: I have two children who are as different as night and day. In fact, they conform perfectly to your descriptions of "strong-willed" and "compliant" children. One is a spitfire and the other is a sweetheart. I am very interested in knowing more about what this means for them long-term. Beyond everyday issues of discipline and relating within a family, what can you tell me about these kids?
This Easter marks return to church for some, thanks to Alpha course
CINCINNATI -- During a lifetime cut off from organized religion, Aubrey "Mac" McCray had gone through three failed marriages and three desperate tries with Alcoholics Anonymous before he reached sobriety. An A.A. friend invited the retired auto worker to visit the suburban Vineyard Community Church, and there he reached a turning point.
The rest of the story
Paul Harvey has become famous for introducing us to "the rest of the story." He has made a career of giving us details of many a story where all looked lost until we heard the rest of the story. When we know all the details, we can see that good can come of the darkness.
Educators say school shootings take focus away from other violence
WASHINGTON -- Barely one of every 100 murders of school-age Americans takes place at school, but when other violent crimes like rapes and muggings are included, nearly a third of the violence involving teen-agers is occurring in schools.
Tape tip
Dear Heloise: After using cellophane (or any sticky tape) each time, bend a small portion of the tip inward.
Erasing the non-erasable
Dear Heloise: I have a MESSAGE BOARD that I use an erasable marker to write on. Someone used a non-erase marker, and I cannot remove the writing. Is there something I can use to remove it? -- Ricky, Via E-mail
One-way party invitations cause hurt feelings in kids
DEAR ABBY: My son, "Brad," is in first grade in a small private school. When birthday time rolls around, I always invite all the kids. They all show up, but when it comes to returning the invitation, some do -- but most don't. Brad is very hurt when he is excluded from their parties. It seems to me that when you accept an invitation, you should reciprocate.
Co-worker's wedding is no cause for celebration
DEAR ABBY: One of my co-workers is being married next month and has invited most of the office to her wedding. I had planned on buying her a gift, but probably won't attend. We are not close. She has been very difficult to work with. She's possibly the most two-faced person I have ever known.
Livestock
SOUTH ST. PAUL (AP) (USDA) -- Wednesday cattle: 500.
Livestock
SOUTH ST. PAUL (AP) (USDA) -- Thursday Cattle: 250.
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Wednesday 299, a year ago 162.
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Thursday 200, a year ago 7.
Walnut, chocolate make filling for rich dessert
A routine meal can leave diners really happy when it is rounded off with a dessert as seductive as toasted walnut and chocolate tart.
Use Easter eggs in egg bake
When bad things happen, sometimes good does come out of it.
Fat isn't an issue with pork kebabs
The fat content is not a concern in this recipe for sweet-and-sour pork kebabs, because the recipe has been reworked to lose fat and calories, while keeping loads of great flavor.
Births
Dean and Rachel Schilling, Fort Ripley, a girl, Mariah Anne Maree, 8 pounds, 6.5 ounces, March 30, 2001. Grandparents are George and Pat Schilling, Fort Ripley, and Rita Skwira, Little Falls.
Court
WALKER -- The following appeared in Cass County District Court:
Metals
NEW YORK (AP) -- Spot nonferrous metal prices Wednesday.
Metals
NEW YORK (AP) -- Spot nonferrous metal prices Thursday.
Accidents
PEQUOT LAKES -- A Brainerd man was injured Thursday in a single-vehicle accident on Highway 371, about 2.5 miles south of Pequot Lakes.
School lunch menus
MONDAY -- NO SCHOOL. Teacher In-Service.
Crime
BURGLARIES -- Nila Patrick reported Thursday VIP Floral, 712 Laurel St., was broken into.
Tewell takes lead
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) -- All the talk about opening the spectator-hungry Senior PGA Tour to 45-year-olds leaves Doug Tewell cold.
Woods nearing deal to be Disney spokesman
Look's like Tiger Woods is going to Disneyland. And it's for more than just a vacation.
Sviggum: Stadium bill dead for year
ST. PAUL (AP) -- The House washed its hands of a bill for a new Twins stadium after a committee scuttled it on a procedural motion. More than one of the chamber's top Republicans declared it dead for the year.
Senate passes Bataan bill
ST. PAUL -- A proposal commemorating the Bataan Death March was adopted by the Minnesota Senate this week. The bill's author, Sen. Don Samuelson, DFL-Brainerd, presented the bill for passage on Monday, the 59th anniversary of the event.
Testimony heard on meth lab bill that was introduced by Walz
ST. PAUL -- A bill to help law enforcement agencies deal with the high costs of controlling methamphetamine was heard by the state House Judiciary Committee last week.
U.S. seeks spy plane's return
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Relieved that China freed an American flight crew, the Bush administration is mounting a fresh diplomatic effort to win back the crew's crippled surveillance plane and mute efforts by Republican conservatives to punish Beijing on the economic front.
State projects less revenue than expected
ST. PAUL (AP) -- Senate Democrats released their overall budget targets Wednesday, proposing to spend about $1 billion more over the next several years than Gov. Jesse Ventura and about $822 million more than House Republicans.
Ventura warns legislators not to let voters break the bank
ST. PAUL -- Pointing to a pessimistic new economic report, Gov. Jesse Ventura warned lawmakers not to simply leave it to voters to decide whether to spend new money, an approach the state's economist says could be a "time bomb."
New study: Dementia patients often die within three years
People with dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease or narrowed blood vessels in the brain often die within about three years -- a far grimmer prognosis than generally thought, Canadian researchers say.
Administration to implement medical privacy rules
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Bush administration said Thursday that it would immediately implement sweeping rules giving patients their first federal right to guard health records.
Study: Epilepsy drugs, not the disease, cause birth defects
Anti-seizure drugs given to epileptic women account for the higher-than-normal rates of birth defects in their babies, a study suggests.
Real estate Q & A
Looking for a home?
Tips for first-time home-buyers
-- Begin a savings account. Even a small amount can be helpful.
Tip of the week
What's new in kitchen appliances for 2001? These days many people seem to have more money than time. Manufacturers are responding with new kitchen technology that saves time and cooks food that tastes good, with space age bells and whistles, too.
Metropolitan Home captures its first 20 years in digestible issue
Although retrospective issues are to be approached with caution -- too many ponderous, and often inaccurate, musings about the Era That Has Ended -- Metropolitan Home has done an admirable job of capping its first 20 years in the designer-eat-designer world of shelter magazines.
Clear up mildew
Q. Elroy L. asks: I have built a closet around my water heater. Since doing so, I have noticed mold on the walls inside the closet and the smell of mildew. What do you recommend to correct this problem?
Places to find back products on the Web
Back Be Nimble:
Products to make life easier range from fans to flooring
InstaLoc Ceiling Fans (about $50 to $100), made by Angelo Brothers Co., don't come with a bag of screws or a telephone book-sized instruction manual.
Nor-son breaks ground on camp cabins
Construction on lodging units at Camp Confidence is under way.
Meet spring right at the door
Springlike weather at last, and there's no better place to welcome the season than right at the front door. Making over a front entry gives a home an immediate fresh look and adds to its curb appeal. The project doesn't have to cost much and can be accomplished in a weekend. It's almost too good to be true.
Rubba Duck designs 12 ducks as collectible items
A duck even Calvin Klein could love.
Tailor your evergreen pruning to kind of plant
Evergreen plants require less pruning than deciduous plants, but they do need some. Pruning techniques can help make evergreens grow more densely and keep the plants from growing too large.
Take a look at an architect's simple house
You might expect a fashion designer to dress in high style, a doctor not to smoke, and an architect to live in a fancy home.
Brick paving can dress up a pool
It's your call: For the same price, you can have a pool deck of brick paving stones or one of concrete.
Interesting ceilings
Modern home design is doing away with cathedral vaulted ceilings that tend to lose their sense of scale and intimacy at 18 feet.
Many homebuyers in Brainerd are first-timers
First-time homebuyers face competition as they collectively make up about one-third of the Brainerd market, according to a central Minnesota housing report.
How building codes protect you
Lots of folks think that a building permit is just another way for local politicians to collect taxes. And to some extent the permit fee is a tax, but in most communities it pays for a staff of experts who provide an important layer of protection for you and your family.
Tuning in to inveterate collectors
Attention, antiques lovers and flea-market habitues: "The Incurable Collector" has joined the ranks of television shows aimed at the nation's hunter-gatherers.
Smoke-free dining goal of coalition
Dondee Murray was 5 when she encouraged her father to quit smoking for her and her 1-year-old brother, who are both allergic to smoke.
Smoke-free restaurants in county listed
About 11 percent of the restaurants in Crow Wing County are smoke-free.
Baxter shows off additions
BAXTER -- Baxter held an open house Wednesday to showcase the renovations to city hall and the police station.
Local briefs
Brainerd Public Utilities will flush the water mains in various sections of the city from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through May 1.
This was Brainerd
20 years ago (1981) - Gusty winds and warm temperatures combined to make yesterday a busy day for area firefighters, forestry officials said. Both the Department of Natural Resources and several community fire departments were called to fires yesterday and early this morning.
Local briefs
BAXTER -- Health care professionals and stroke survivors will head up a seminar titled "Stroke ... The Story" from 8:30 to 3:30 p.m. May 17 at Lakewood Evangelical Free Church at 3150 Fairview Road N., Baxter.
Brainerd planning panel supports TIF plans 6-1
The Brainerd Planning Commission passed resolutions Wednesday stating the tax-increment financing plans for the East Brainerd Mall and Lexington Manufacturing, Inc., are consistent with Brainerd's plans for development.
This was Brainerd
20 years ago (1981) - After a short-lived increase for one month the Brainerd area employment took a 36-job nosedive last month. Area employment went from 8,529 in February to 8,493 in March.
COMING FRIDAY
First-time homebuyers face great competition for properties in Minnesota markets, a housing study reports. Look for the story in Friday's Housing section.
Teen dies in two-car collision
LAPORTE -- A 17-year-old Lake George teen died Thursday following a two-car collision on Highway 200, one mile west of Laporte in Hubbard County.
Little Falls school officials testify at House hearing
LITTLE FALLS -- Little Falls school officials joined state Rep. Steve Wenzel at a hearing of the House K-12 Education Finance Committee on Wednesday night to testify in support of a bill that would make it easier for the district to repay an over-payment of state school aid.
Rising rivers challenge dams
As area rivers continue to flow above their flood stages, dams in the Mississippi are trying to keep up with the rising water.
Housing project's 2nd phase in doubt
Brainerd's need for low- and moderate-income housing is just beginning to be filled with the construction of 30 homes in the Willows project, but the next 30 may be on hold for a while, at least for the current developers.
Four BHS seniors are National Merit finalists
As high school graduation nears four Brainerd High School seniors' futures look brighter.
Area rivers are on the rise
PINE RIVER -- One of Don Dabill's memories of the Pine River depot is arriving on the train in April to see his wife after two years away to fight in World War II.
On target
Sometimes practice does not make perfect. Read the story of a champion archer Sunday in North Country.
Flooding could reach 1997 levels in area
Area rivers are holding steady today, but within a week flooding rivers could reach levels at or near 1997 flood stages.
Cal Gilson struggles to keep floodwaters at bay
FORT RIPLEY -- As light rain fell Wednesday, Cal Gilson prepared to shore up his property against the rising waters of the Nokasippi and Mississippi rivers.
Gun deaths drop dramatically
ATLANTA -- Gun deaths in the United States dropped more than 25 percent during the mid-1990s to the lowest level since 1966, the government said.
Ashcroft allows closed-circuit telecast of execution
WASHINGTON -- Survivors and relatives of the Oklahoma City bombing victims will be allowed to watch Timothy McVeigh's execution on closed-circuit television. Attorney General John Ashcroft said he wanted to help them "close this chapter of their lives."
Yahoo takes adult merchandise off site
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -- Leading Internet portal Yahoo! Inc. will remove pornographic products from its shopping, auctions and classifieds Web pages.
Park Service to ban some personal watercraft
WASHINGTON -- Only two more summers for personal watercraft in the national parks.
7 die in row house fire
PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Seven people were killed Friday in a fire at a trash-filled row house where many of the residents were elderly and disabled.
New energy standards to save billions in energy costs
WASHINGTON -- New efficiency standards approved by the Bush administration are expected to save billions of dollars in energy costs but significantly increase prices of new washing machines and water heaters.
Remains of Americans killed in Vietnam helicopter crash flown home
HANOI, Vietnam (AP) -- In a poignant echo of earlier services for long-lost soldiers, U.S. officials held a repatriation ceremony Friday for seven Americans killed last weekend while searching for the remains of Americans missing since the Vietnam War.
Scholars dismiss claims Jefferson fathered children with slave
RICHMOND, Va. (AP) -- A commission of scholars Thursday disputed claims that Thomas Jefferson fathered children with his slave Sally Hemings, and said the evidence points instead to Jefferson's younger brother.
Four dead in shooting at seniors' complex
CHULA VISTA, Calif. (AP) -- An elderly man who was being evicted from an apartment complex for senior citizens shot and killed three people there before committing suicide, police said.
Plane crisis veered near chaos in first 48 hours, officials say
PARIS -- The standoff over the crippled American spy plane got off to a bad start and almost spiraled out of control during its first 48 hours, U.S. officials said Wednesday.
Texas Senate panel approves moratorium on executions
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) -- A state Senate panel has endorsed a plan to let voters decide whether to halt executions for two years in Texas, the nation's most active death penalty state.
To some Chinese, crew's release makes nation look weak
HAIKOU, China -- It wasn't a deep enough kowtow. But Washington's message of regret provided enough face-saving room for most Chinese to accept their government's decision to let the 24 crew members of a downed American spy plane go home.
Diplomats offer chilling details of collision, aftermath
BEIJING -- As crew members raced to destroy classified information, heavily armed Chinese troops surrounded the crippled U.S. spy plane on a runway on Hainan island, shouting through megaphones and waving their arms to get the crew off, senior U.S. diplomats said Friday.
Cincinnati mayor declares emergency, curfew on riots
CINCINNATI -- The mayor declared a state of emergency and announced a citywide curfew as riots over the police shooting of an unarmed black man stretched into a fourth day Thursday.
Crippled spy plane's pilot hailed as hero
When Shane Osborn was in high school in Norfolk, Neb., he knew that his football coach, Dan McLaughlin, had been in the Air Force. Intensely interested in aviation, Osborn peppered McLaughlin with questions about how he joined the Air Force and what it was like.
Appeal holds homeless pair liable for deaths of six firefighters in Massachusetts
WORCESTER, Mass. -- The legal and psychological embers of a 1999 warehouse fire that killed six firefighters continue to smolder here, with the district attorney appealing the dismissal of manslaughter charges against a homeless couple charged with causing the blaze.
Curfew restores calm
CINCINNATI (AP) -- Scores of people were arrested overnight for curfew violations, but peace was restored to the city's streets after three days of rioting over the shooting death of a young black man by a police officer.
Military rescues U.S. hostage in Philippines
MANILA, Philippines (AP) -- The Philippine military rescued U.S. hostage Jeffrey Schilling on Thursday from Muslim rebels who had threatened to behead him last week, military officials said.
Tornadoes tear through Midwest, leaving three dead
AGENCY, Iowa -- Tornadoes cut paths through parts of the Plains and Midwest, leaving at least three people dead and damaging buildings, uprooting trees and overturning cars.
American crew heads for Hawaii
HAGATNA, Guam -- Leaving their crippled spy plane on a Chinese island, 24 U.S. crew members headed for Hawaii on Thursday with plans for a weekend reunion with families and friends on the U.S. mainland. Their long flight home ended a 12-day diplomatic standoff after a collision with a Chinese fighter jet over the South China Sea.
Study blames man-made gases for global warming
WASHINGTON -- Computer models developed independently by two teams of researchers give new evidence that global warming is influenced by man-made gases.
Country Singer-songwriter Van Stephenson, 47, dies
Van Stephenson, songwriter and a founding vocalist and guitarist of the country music trio BlackHawk, has died of melanoma. He was 47.
One actor injured, another arrested in barroom brawl
WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) -- Actors Steve Buscemi and Vince Vaughn, in town filming a movie called "Domestic Disturbance," got into a barroom brawl with locals that left Buscemi bloody and Vaughn in jail.
U.S., European banana war ends in truce
The United States agreed Wednesday to call a truce in its bitter eight-year banana dispute with Europe, clearing the way for improved relations with a key ally in the global trade liberalization battle.
U.S.-hosted Mideast talks held; Sharon threatens more reprisals
TEL AVIV, Israel -- U.S.-hosted cease-fire talks between Israelis and Palestinians ended without result Thursday, and Prime Minister Ariel Sharon warned he would send troops into Palestinian areas again if attacks on Israelis persist.
Man indicted in road rage death of small white dog
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) -- More than a year after a dog's death in a road rage incident sparked outrage among animal lovers, a man has been indicted in the case.
NBA moving into a zone of its own
Going where it had never gone before and never expected to, the NBA announced Thursday it will legalize zone defense -- the latest attempt to revive offensive basketball, as well as attendance and television ratings.
Indiana clinches playoff berth; Boston misses again
The defending Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers barely made the playoff cut. The 16-time NBA champion Boston Celtics missed the postseason for the sixth straight year.
Janikowski innocent on charges of drug possession
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- Standing with his lawyers as the jury's decision was announced, Oakland Raiders placekicker Sebastian Janikowski was stunned to hear the court clerk say "guilty." His relief was immeasurable when she quickly fixed that mistake.
Devils looking for more success
The New Jersey Devils are looking to repeat last year's playoff performance. The St. Louis Blues are trying to reverse theirs.
Dallas opens with overtime victory
DALLAS (AP) -- Jamie Langenbrunner scored off his own long rebound 2:18 into overtime as the Dallas Stars continued their domination of the Edmonton Oilers with a 2-1 victory Wednesday night in a first-round playoff game.
Game ppd., roof panels (?)
TORONTO (AP) -- One game is already lost, and Friday's meeting of the Toronto Blue Jays and Kansas City Royals was in jeopardy after chunks of the retractable roof at SkyDome fell to the field.
Here's another Jordan might return story
CHICAGO -- Make no mistake: Michael Jordan is more serious about a comeback than anyone suspects.
Kathleen A. Melde
MERRIFIELD -- Kathleen A. Melde, 77, Merrifield, died Friday, April 13, 2001, at Woodland Good Samaritan Village in Brainerd.
Aaron M. Magnan
LITTLE FALLS -- Aaron Michael Magnan, 17, Little Falls, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, as the result of a motor vehicle and bicycle accident.
Dale E. Evans
CROSBY -- Dale E. Evans, 77, Crosby, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby.
Frederick 'Fritz' W. Roseberg
MALMO -- Frederick "Fritz" W. Roseberg, 96, Malmo, died Wednesday, April 11, 2001, at Aicota Health Care Center in Aitkin.
Marjorie Vuchetich
Marjorie Vuchetich, 88, Brainerd, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd.
Charlotte K. Stadtherr
AITKIN -- Charlotte K. Stadtherr, 98, Aitkin, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at the Aicota Health Care Center in Aitkin.
Thomas A. Ridgeway
NISSWA -- Thomas A. Ridgeway, 58, Nisswa, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at Woodland Good Samaritan Village in Brainerd of diabetes and pancreatic cancer.
James 'Jim' H. Fish
CROSBY -- James "Jim" Hunter Fish, 70, former mayor of Crosby, died Tuesday, April 10, 2001, at Cuyuna Regional Care Center of complications with Alzheimer's.
Joseph Christy
CROSBY -- Joseph Christy, 86, Aitkin, died Wednesday, April 11, 2001, at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center in Crosby.
Raymond Kuschel
Raymond Kuschel, 90, Brainerd, died Thursday, April 12, 2001, at Bethany Good Samaritan Village in Brainerd.
America's education scandal
The report cards keep getting worse. On Friday (April 6), the U.S. Department of Education released the latest test results on how well (or, to be more accurate, how poorly) students in government-run schools read. The results indicate that less than a third of our fourth graders are proficient in reading and the gap between the best and worst readers is widening.
Open Forum
The Coast Guard's article "More Tower Talk" suggests NDGPS are not re-used GWEN Towers, and invisible pollutants emitted by the electro-magnetic ground waves will create no radiation danger to human or animal health. The lieutenants compare these towers to typical AM radio towers; they say they can be purchased easily across the U.S.
Open Forum
Recently one of our community members "stepped across the line" at Fort Benning, Georgia and was arrested for trespassing. She has made a personal commitment to help close the notorious School of Americas. She is fully aware of the potential personal consequences of her act. But what are some of the consequences of this "school's" graduates?
Act of cowardice - Dispatch Editorial
It's sad but true. Minnesotans searching for examples of terrorism don't have to look to faraway locales such as Israel or Kosovo.
The Dispatch's editorial positions
Editorial views in The Brainerd Dispatch represent a consensus of opinion by members of the newspaper's editorial board.
Helping a vulnerable population
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcoho
Goodbye fiscal responsibility
The following editorial appeared in Wednesday's Los Angeles Times:
Olson speaks out on his letters
Because of what has taken place at the Brainerd City Council meeting on Monday, April 2, I will explain to the citizens of Brainerd information about the two letters I wrote to state and federal officials.
Worth keeping - Dispatch Editorial
Self-reliance is a good concept. But sometimes Gov. Ventura pushes things too far.
BUSCH SERIES
The 2001 NASCAR Busch series (winners in parentheses) and driver point standings:
NASCAR says report on Earnhardt not a contradiction
NASCAR, responding to independent medical expert Barry Myers' report on the crash death of stock car racer Dale Earnhardt, said Tuesday that the report was not a contradiction of the sanctioning body's findings.
WINSTON CUP
The 2001 NASCAR Winston Cup schedule (winners in parentheses) and driver point standings:
ON TRACK
NASCAR
NASCAR is ripe for a split -- but no one wants to fumble
I'm thinking about starting my own stock car series. Something that will make NASCAR weak in the knees. Why? Because the timing is right, the pieces are in place, and I can make everybody happy.
Jon Wood hopes to add glory to family name
Eddie Wood has been around racing all his life as one of the namesakes of the famed Wood Brothers. He's seen a virtual Who's Who of racing greats don the family colors and hit the track.
Union Pacific stops testing on workers
ST. PAUL (AP) -- A railroad company has agreed to temporarily halt a plan to employ a battery of tests on its employees -- including an optional blood test -- after a court hearing.
Montevideo residents forced to evacuate
MONTEVIDEO (AP) -- Despite a lot of hard work ahead, the mayors of two towns threatened by the rising Minnesota River were confident about holding back floodwaters that are expected to approach record levels Sunday.
Zappa surrenders, Sluti safe
ROLLINS, Mont. (AP) -- A man accused of abducting a teen-age girl from a mall parking lot in Nebraska nearly a week ago surrendered early Thursday to police who cornered him in a cabin with her. The girl was credited with helping negotiate the surrender.
Rivers keep rising across state, but forecasts lowered
The irony has not escaped residents of Granite Falls.
Nightlong negotiations to capture Zappa recounted
ROLLINS, Mont. -- The 17-year-old honor student relayed instructions, information and reassurance to her captor through an entire night. Then, in the stillness of a snowy, lakeside morning, with the cabin surrounded by police, Anne Sluti finally made the man take the phone and agree it was time to give up.
State survey says traffic congestion considered big problem for most people
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- About nine of 10 Minnesotans said reducing traffic congestion should be one of the Legislature's top priorities, according to a poll released Thursday from the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Lighter rain lowers crest projections
FARGO, N.D. -- Red River Valley flood fighters are relieved to hear the river will not peak as high as earlier expected, but they plan to remain vigilant.
Our sultan of bad luck
Virtually every year I play home run derby with my co-workers. I'm one of the contest's cellar-dwellers.
Scoreboard
COLLEGE BASEBALL
Area athletes make good showing at Staples
STAPLES -- Area athletes won 11 events at the Staples-Motley Icebreaker track and field meet Tuesday.
Scoreboard
HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL
Raiders anxious to hit the links
Most golfers in the lakes area are warming up for the season in our own, uniquely northwood's style. That means idling past still barren golf courses and watching warmer golf climes on the tube. But, the Central Lakes College Raiders men's and women's golf teams are getting into their season in a more serious way.
News
'IRONTON -- The Cuyuna Range Whitetails, a new chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, was formed Wednesday.
Local sports shorts
Brainerd High School graduate Ally Graham of Augustana College won the 400-meter dash as the Vikings hosted the Midwest All-Lutheran track and field meet last week.
WIN, TWINS?
By DAVE CAMPBELL
Twins sweep Tigers with offensive show
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Entering the season, it was clear the Minnesota Twins were going to rely on strong starting pitching and sound defense.
Guzman grows up Twins' shortstop is an emerging star
BYLINE3: MINNEAPOLIS -- Cristian Guzman is getting comfortable.
Kobe, Shaq finding their groove
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The Combo is back in full force. And the supporting cast looks pretty good, too.
Player says Minnesota coach gave her $200
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Minnesota women's basketball coach Cheryl Littlejohn gave former player Natea Motley $200 in possible violation of NCAA rules, a newspaper reported.
Capsule reviews of current releases
Opinions are by Los Angeles Times reviewers.
Tempo tidbits
Realgoodwords, a local literary journal, is looking for short stories for its 2001 spring-summer issue, publisher Heidi Holtan said this week.
Entertainment guide
For week of April 12-18; bands perform from 9 p.m. to close with no cover unless otherwise noted.
Freeman saves 'Along Came A Spider,' a poor adaptation of a good novel
If not for Morgan Freeman, "Along Came A Spider" would be quickly relegated to B-movie status at local video stores.
Apples, grapes and other plums in new books harvest listed
Food writer Ruth Reichl finds comfort in apples. Nora Roberts' new novel takes place in the vineyards of California. And the fruits of other writers' labors are ready to be picked from the latest crop of hardcover books.
CLC Theatre summer auditions April 19 and 21
Central Lakes College Theatre will hold auditions for its upcoming summer theatre season at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 19, and 10 a.m. Saturday, April 21.
'History of Bombing' packs a wallop
"A History of Bombing" (New Press, 207 pages, $24.95) is more than its title suggests. It is also a chronicle of the many ways in which genocide has been practiced since ancient times.
Patterson's thrillers go under Hollywood's knife
LOS ANGELES -- James Patterson writes his thrillers as if he were building roller coasters.
Fern Michaels' 'Plain Jane' is just plain disappointing
Fern Michaels' novel "Plain Jane" (Kensington, 292 pages, $24) lives up to its name. Short on color and long on verbose narrative, "Plain Jane" is a page-fumbler.
'Spy Kids' repeats as No. 1 weekend movie
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- "Spy Kids" fended off a rush of new films to remain the No. 1 movie at the weekend box office.
Piano festival to feature outstanding performance winner
"Duo Dynamics," the 11th annual Central Lakes College Piano Festival, will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in Tornstrom Auditorium, Washington Middle School, Brainerd, featuring students such as Kelly Uglem of Crosby.
Morton to write unauthorized biography of Madonna
NEW YORK (AP) -- First he wrote about Princess Diana, then Monica Lewinsky. Now, Andrew Morton is taking on Madonna.
Temple Baptist to present 'A Wing and a Prayer'
Mitchell, S.D., contemporary recording artist Debra Weitala will perform in concert "A Wing and a Prayer" at 11 a.m. May 5 in the Temple Baptist Fellowship Hall, 923 Oak St., Brainerd, for the women's luncheon.
Fine Arts Student of the Week
As a member of the Speech Team, Cecilia Patterson is sharpening her skills in preparation for a career in radio broadcasting.
Class on Hassler's works attracts author's loyal fans
Long before he published his first novel, teacher-turned-author Jon Hassler had gathered a loyal following among his students.
Weeklong events in Staples include art show, performance groups, training sessions
STAPLES -- Staples Motley High School and Centennial Auditorium will be the site of different events April 18-22.
Great River Arts Association seeks performing artists
The Great River Arts Association is putting out a call for performing artists interested in the 2001 Concerts in the Park Series.
On stage at CLC
This is your last chance to catch Central Lakes College's production of "Woman in Mind," a modern British play that probes family relationships.
Best videos
Weekly charts for the nation's most popular videos as they appear in this week's issue of Billboard magazine.
Best books
1. "Dreamcatcher" by Stephen King (Scribner)
Central Minnesota Boys' Choir to tour with stops in Brainerd, Staples
The Central Minnesota Boys' Choir will conclude its inaugural season with a whirlwind tour of central Minnesota, including performances in Alexandria, Brainerd, Grand Rapids, Staples and Wadena.
Crow Wing Historical Society lists museum exhibits, hours
The Crow Wing County Historical Society and Museum will be closed Saturday for the Easter holiday. Regular hours will resume Monday.
Minnesota Zoo showing spring babies
This is the EXPLORE MINNESOTA EVENTS REPORT for Tuesday, April 10, hosted by the Minnesota Office of Tourism, and brought to you by www.exploreminnesota.com.
Best music
Weekly charts for the nation's best-selling recorded music as they appear in next week's issue of Billboard magazine. Reprinted with permission.
Minnesota artists display works in 'Mini Show' in Little Falls
LITTLE FALLS -- The Artists of Minnesota traveling "Mini Show" is on display at Bookin' It Bookstore in downtown Little Falls.
Rippleside sixth-graders to perform musical
AITKIN -- Sixth-grade students at Rippleside Elementary School in Aitkin will perform the musical, "The Inside Pitch," at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19, in the Rippleside gymnasium, directed by Maggie Lemire and Bonnie Johnson.
Wisconsin state forecast
Today...Mostly sunny...Then increasing cloudiness west during the afternoon. A chance of afternoon showers far northwest. Highs mainly in the 50s. Turning cooler along lake michigan in the afternoon.
Regional forecast
HighLowPR
Iowa state forecast
Today...Sunny...Then increasing cloudiness across the west this afternoon. A chance of showers western half by late in the day. Highs in the mid 50s to mid 60s.
Iowa state forecast
Wind advisory this morning west and central...This morning and this afternoon east...
State forecast for south dakota
Today...Partly to mostly cloudy and breezy. A chance of light showers central and east. Highs in the mid 40s and 50s.
Minnesota state forecast
Wind advisory south and west today...
State forecast for north dakota
Today...Mostly cloudy. Morning snow northwest. Scattered rain and snow southwest. Rain showers likely east. Highs 45 to 55.
Wisconsin state forecast
Wind advisory today most of wisconsin except northwest...
Minnesota state forecast.
Today...Cloudy west. Becoming cloudy east during the afternoon. A chance of rain or snow showers north. A chance of rain showers southwest and central. Highs from 40 north to the upper 50s southeast.
Bunny time
Weather drawing by Tony Anderson of Gayle Kub's first grade class at Lowell school.
State forecast for south dakota
Wind advisory this morning east...
State forecast for north dakota
Wind advisory southeast this morning...
Happy Easter
Weather drawing by Stacy Buscher of Mrs. Meyer's third grade class at Riverside school.
The Weather Elsewhere
Friday
What's doing
The Eagles Club will have hamburgers and a fish fry from 5-8 p.m. Friday. There will be a dance with music by Whiskey Logic from 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Names and faces
CHICAGO (AP) -- R&B singer Mya is known for her petite figure and good looks.
What's doing
North-South: Clayton Haglin and Mark Anderson, 120; Clif and LuVerne Johnson, 110.5; Ann Whalen and Phyllis DeRosier, 95; and Ray and Gladys Norrgard, 91.5. East-West: Al and Carol Kline, 99; Tom and Carol Vind, 92.5; Bruce Eastman and Bill Black, 87; and Don Rasmussen and Gordon Becker, 84.
Senior activities
LAKES AREA SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER
Soccer stampede kills 43 in S. Africa
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP) -- Sobbing women identified their relatives from among bodies lined up on a soccer field early Thursday after a stampede at a match between two of South Africa's most popular teams. Forty-three people were killed and more than 80 injured.
Aviators face difficult South Pole trip to rescue sick doctor
WELLINGTON, New Zealand -- Twenty-four-hour darkness shrouding a runway carved out of ice and temperatures that turn airplane controls sluggish face U.S. aviators heading to the South Pole to try and rescue a sick American doctor.