Thursday, June 5, 2008
St. Cloud man has small solution to gas prices: Little cars
ST. CLOUD (AP) - Most days you'll find Brenton Netz under the hood of a car behind his St. Cloud home.
Rising gas prices spurring green revolution in automobile industry
WASHINGTON - Largely thanks to government mandates and rising fuel prices, the green revolution is revving up in the global automobile industry.
Chevrolet adds hybrid version of Malibu
The largest mainstream gas-electric hybrid car on the U.S. market isn't a Toyota or a Honda.
ART SHORTS
AITKIN - Watercolorist Russell Norberg's "Minnesota North" exhibit will be on display from Friday through July 12 at the Jaques Art Center in Aitkin. A reception will be from 1-4 p.m. Saturday.1
TAPPING into something special
If Michael Minery didn't earn a living as a tap dancer, perhaps he could be a tap historian. When a reporter mentioned that it's the 25th anniversary of Michael Jackson's "Thriller," Minery - in a rapid-fire New Jersey accent - explained how those famous dance moves were influenced by tap.
Upcoming arts and entertainment events
Live music
Wayne's world opens up on new album
Four songs have "love" in the title, and two more are explicitly about his desire to write a hit song. Listening to "Lucky 13," it's clear what's on the mind of Brainerd country crooner Wayne Renn.
Completely random slice of pop culture
This is going to sound kind of random, but I really like "Chelsea Lately." The comedic talk show, which airs at 10:30 p.m. weekdays on the E! network, has become my go-to show for night-capping guffaws. Thanks, Clint - "Chelsea" is the best entertainment recommendation from a friend since Trevor introduced me to the novels of Philip K. Dick.
Best bets
The ninth annual Nisswa-stamman, featuring traditional Scandinavian music from the United States and abroad, will feature the following events:
Take a walk down 'Maple Street'
Wayne Renn's earliest memory led to the best song on his new album, "Lucky 13." "Maple Street" is about his connection to Anna Mustonen, the mother of Brainerd military pilot Leo Mustonen. Leo's remains, found in the mountains of California, were identified in 2006; his plane crashed in 1942.
Cathy Taylor to present organ recital
NISSWA - Cathy Taylor will perform at noon Wednesday at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Nisswa as part of the Summer Organ Series.
Klobuchar is next Brown Bag speaker
Jim Klobuchar will speak at noon Monday at the Brainerd Public Library as part of the Brown Bag Lunch Summer Speakers' Series.
'Seussical Jr.' to be staged at Bay Lake Camp
DEERWOOD - The Young Artists Initiative will stage "Seussical Jr.," based on the stories of Dr. Seuss, at 7 p.m. June 27, 2 and 7 p.m. June 28 and 1 p.m. June 29 at Bay Lake Camp, 16257 Brighton Point Road, in Deerwood.
MG competes at Star Systems
BLOOMINGTON - Brainerd's Music General dancers competed at the Star Systems National Talent Competition May 2-4 at the Bloomington Kennedy Performing Arts Center. Studios from around the state competed.
Passing the test of taste, time
Sometimes as wives and mothers we get frustrated about having to come up with new and exciting recipes to feed our family for dinner. Even when it's just Gary and me for dinner, I don't always know what to cook. That's when I pull out my recipe file and search for some old favorites that have passed the test of both time and taste.
Mission Township man in serious condition
A Mission Township man who was injured Monday night after wiping out on his motorcycle at his home was listed in serious condition Wednesday at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale.
POLICE BLOTTER
INVESTIGATIONS - Officers were dispatched Tuesday for an unruly male at St. Joseph's Medical Center emergency room but were told the male had calmed down before their arrival.
POLICE BLOTTER
INVESTIGATIONS - Deputies assisted Baxter Police Department with a domestic issue Sunday at the 14700 block of Green Briar Drive.
BIRTHS
Jeffrey and Bonnie Bowman, Pillager, a girl, Mia Brianne, 8 pounds, 1 ounce, May 21, 2008. Grandparents are Karen Bowman, Aitkin, and Dale and Ruthann Crepeau, Clearbrook.
Mission Township man injured in motorcycle crash
A Mission Township man was injured after wiping out on his motorcycle at his home Monday night, Crosslake Police Sgt. Erik Lee reported Tuesday.
Brainerd firefighters respond
The Brainerd Fire Department received a call at 11:20 a.m. Tuesday of a fire alarm on the 11200 block of Birch Island Drive in Cass County.
LOCAL BRIEFS
Cuyuna Range history is the focus of a new Unlimited Learning course starting Thursday.
ALL IN THE FAMILY
"Great catch, Mom! Lenore Wilmes caught this crappie fishing on Lake Margaret. Such fun!"
Brainerd soccer teams shine
The Lakes Area Youth Soccer Association's U-14 boys won the Kickers Classic Kickoff on May 18 in Brooklyn Park. The team was undefeated in the tournament and did not give up a goal: Wesley Delong (front left), Andrew Olson, Austin Polcaro, Zean Baker, Riley Nelson, Zach Dehning, Aaron Bostrom, assistant coach Joe Collins (back left), David Jensen, Josh Gazelka, Zach Skarolid, Ben Anderholm, Tylor Bouchard, Thor Linnerooth and coach Cahil Collins.
THE ALLURE OF THE LURE
It's all about the lure.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Lakes Area Ecumenical Bereavement
Summer past
This is a picture of a painted lady butterfly that I took sitting atop a coneflower last summer in my mom's garden. It took many pictures, and even more patience, but I finally got a treasured picture that I am very proud of." - Melissa Raddatz.
History with a twist
Third-graders in Bridget Surma's class at Baxter Elementary School dressed up as historical figures and talked about those people's lives May 22, which made history come alive for the students. Some of the characters included Charles Lindbergh, Babe Ruth, Harriet Tubman, Florence Nightingale, Beatrix Potter and Elvis Presley.
Folkeringa 11th overall in marathon
Gracia Folkeringa, a 2006 Brainerd High School graduate, finished third in her age division, 11th overall, in the women's division of the Med City Marathon in Rochester on May 25. Her time was 3 hours, 51 minutes. Folkeringa is a student at the University of Minnesota, pursuing a degree in physical therapy, and is an assistant trainer for the Gophers' football team.
CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY
923 Oak Street Temple Baptist Church (Soup Kitchen)
ORGANIZATIONS
Brainerd Jaycees
Spinning demonstration planned June 21 at Nisswa Pioneer Village
NISSWA - The Aitkin Dyed in the Wool Spinners will be spinning and demonstrating textile techniques at the Nisswa Pioneer Village from 11 a.m. to 4 June 21. Questions on spinning and spinning wheels will be answered. Members will have items on display and for sale.
Program celebrates 5th anniversary
CROSBY - The first set of books and a bookshelf from Reading Early Assists Development was delivered to parents of a newborn baby at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center five years ago in April.
PETS OF THE WEEK
Dusty is a male husky mix. He's about 3 to 5 years old and is quiet and mellow. Brainerd Dispatch/Heidi Lake
Eurasian watermilfoil invades Upper Mission Lake
The news hit home for Gary Roach.
Oberstar: It's time to unite for Obama
Rep. Jim Oberstar, D-Minn., was just a lad when he and his father saw thousands of supporters rally for President Harry Truman in Hibbing during the 1948 presidential campaign.
Overheard
"I'm from a family of five, and I'm the first one not to walk" in graduation. "It's like getting life in prison for jaywalking."
This was Brainerd
JUNE 4 - 80 years ago (1928) - Some people wonder why the local Lions Committee worked a year preparing for this Fifth District Ninth Annual Convention. They wished to have every detail carefully worked out and a welcome and reception accorded that will linger long in the memory of every Lion and Lioness.
More ice time at arenas sought
More ice time is requested of the city of Brainerd.
IN JAN'S MEMORY
On Saturday, Jim Eisler will begin his two-day, 150-mile bike ride to raise funds to find a cure for multiple sclerosis.
Land use, zoning changes are enacted
WALKER - The Cass County Board on Tuesday enacted the new conservation development design standards section of the Land Use Ordinance, which will replace planned unit development standards.
Administrator sees shortfall, staffing issues
WALKER - Administrator Robert Yochum informed the county board Tuesday that he has asked department heads to present revised operating plans in light of state legislative action taken this year.
LOCAL BRIEFS
The Crow Wing County DFL Party announced it has opened the Democratic Party headquarters at 2027 South Sixth Street in Brainerd.
Acquisition of Ah-Gwah-Ching complete
WALKER - Cass County now owns Ah-Gwah-Ching property and the buildings on it.
What to ask them
With presidential politics dominating the television news channels and both parties apparently set on who they'll nominate Brainerd area residents this week were asked what question they would ask Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill.
Concerns raised about space for the homeless
BAXTER - Before the Baxter City Council gave its support to a proposed housing development, concerns were raised about four units reserved for the homeless in the proposed development.
This was Brainerd
JUNE 5 - 60 years ago (1948) - The Brainerd Junior Chamber of Commerce today was awarded third place in the National Civic Improvement Contest. The Brainerd organization had won first place in the Minnesota state contest which provided for their entry into the national contest.
Man claims junkyard ordinance violation
WALKER - It may take a meeting of state highway and pollution control officials with county officials and two landowners to resolve the issue Cecil Martin brought to the Cass County Board on Tuesday.
Overheard
"After 54 hard-fought contests, our primary season has finally come to an end."
LOCAL BRIEFS
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has prepared an environmental assessment worksheet for a proposed expansion of the Athman Swine finishing site in eastern Morrison County's Granite Township. Citizens are invited to comment on this EAW until July 2.
Tolly J. Anderson
KANSAS CITY, Kan. - Tolly Jean Anderson, 67, Kansas City, Kan., passed away May 21, 2008, at home. Ms. Anderson was born in Brainerd, Minn., on Feb. 6, 1941, to Henry Leroy and Edith Laura Anderson, who precede her in death. Surviving her are two brothers, Hank and Bill; and two sisters, Terry and Merry.
Melina E. Roden
Melina Eowyn Roden, age 42, of Brainerd, died Monday, June 2, 2008, at her home. Memorial services will be Monday, June 9, at 11 a.m. at Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter with Deacon Roger Marks officiating.
Vivian Isackson
Vivian Isackson, age 86, Brainerd, passed away June 1, 2008.
Emily Nesheim
BAXTER - Emily Nesheim, age 59, of Baxter, died Monday, June 2, 2008, at her home. Private memorial services will be held.
Donnie J. Wendlandt
DEERWOOD - Donnie Jean Wendlandt, age 67, beloved mother, grandmother, wife, sister and friend, of Deerwood, died on Tuesday, June 3, 2008, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis. She was born on April 2, 1941, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Donald E. and Bobbie J. Inman.
Merril Nelson
PINE RIVER - Merril Nelson, age 86, of Pine River, passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2008, at his home where he had been cared for by his loving daughters. He was born March 27, 1922, in Clear Lake, Iowa, to George and Agnes (Hanson) Nelson. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a gunner known as "Dead Eye Dick." He married Vivian Pitlick on April 19, 1946.
Roberta E. Wells
BAXTER - Roberta E. Wells, of Baxter, died Tuesday, June 3, 2008, at her home. Arrangements are pending with Brenny Funeral Chapel of Baxter.
Elvin R. Pohl
PEQUOT LAKES - Elvin R. Pohl, 88, of Pequot Lakes, passed away Saturday, May 31, 2008, at his home. Funeral services for Elvin will be 1 p.m. Thursday, June 5, 2008, at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Pequot Lakes. Interment will follow at the Stonybrook (Gloria Dei) Cemetery in Pequot Lakes.
Obituary policy
Obituary notices are charged at 40 cents a word, exclusive of the first 125 words, which are free. A $10 fee is charged for a half-column photograph. To place an obituary in the Dispatch, consult the funeral home handling arrangements.
LaValle M. Lund
IRONTON - LaValle M. Lund, 94, of Ironton, Minn., passed away Monday, June 2, 2008, at Bethany Riverside Nursing Facility in La Crosse, Wis.
Obituary policy
Obituary notices are charged at 40 cents a word, exclusive of the first 125 words, which are free. A $10 fee is charged for a half-column photograph. To place an obituary in the Dispatch, consult the funeral home handling arrangements.
Emily Nesheim
Emily Nesheim, 59, of Brainerd/Baxter, died Monday, June 2, 2008, at her home. Arrangements are pending with the Brenny Funeral Chapel of Baxter.
Kenneth S. Larson
INTERNATIONAL FALLS - Kenneth Sylvester Larson, of International Falls, Minn., passed away on Saturday, May 31, 2008, at the St. Mary's Medical Center in Duluth. Kenneth was 83 years of age.
Judith A. Nelson
CLEARBROOK - Judith Ann (Krizek) Nelson, 68, a resident of the Good Samaritan Center in Clearbrook, Minn., died on Saturday, May 31, 2008, at the center.
Alice A. Ridlon
LITTLE FALLS - Alice A. Ridlon, 95-year-old resident of Little Falls, Minn., passed away Saturday, May 24, at the Lutheran Care Center in Little Falls, Minn. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2008, at the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls, Minn.
Open Forum
Rather than bowing out gracefully with the house lights dimming, the curtains closing slowly and the orchestra playing Little Richard's mournful "Keep a knockin' but you can't come in," the smartest woman on earth will be given the unceremonious hook and dragged kicking and screaming from the stage. Exit far left, Hillary.
Obama's crucial decision
WASHINGTON - From Iowa in January through South Dakota and Montana in June, Barack Obama has enjoyed one of the great rides in American political history, breaking precedents and setting records along the way. It has been an extraordinary journey, magnified, not diminished, by the gritty, resilient performance of his main rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton. On that journey he has given Americans the gift of a new and hopeful chapter in our troubled racial history.
Open Forum: Nisswa ceremony was outstanding
Once again the Memorial Day program at the Nisswa American Legion was outstanding. They had good speakers, great music and it was truly a time for remembering the dedication of the men and women that have given so much. My thanks to all the folks that work so hard to put on these programs across our great country. We can never forget all the sacrifices that have been made and continue to be made every day. Thanks again.
VOX POP
If Mr. Olson is such an expert about running an ice rink, why is it a sinking ship?
OUR OPINION: ATV TRAILS
Whether one is a fan of all-terrain vehicles or not, it's a certainty that they're not going to go away. In fact, some Minnesotans would argue they've even supplanted snowmobiles as a popular recreational vehicle.
Scoreboard
Area events
Brainerd blanked
by Rochester 5-0
The Brainerd Blue Thunder's Kris Jiggitts found himself one out away from getting out of a sixth-inning jam with only a 2-0 deficit in a Wednesday matchup against Northwoods League opponent Rochester.
Verndale Pirates prepped for state softball tourney
State tournaments are not new for the Verndale School District, but this one is.
The tale of two putters
If Tyler Monda can get his putting game to come around the Brainerd Warrior boys' golfer should be in contention to move up the ladder at the Class 3A state golf tournament.
Scoreboard
Area events
LOCAL SPORTS SHORTS
The Brainerd High School activities department has established the following timelines for participating in a fall sport.
Tough field to face new course
The field is loaded with returning state experience, but the early talk surrounding the Class 2A state boys' golf tournament is the site.
Christian first-round leader, Raiders in fifth
Chautauqua, N.Y. - Chad Christian of Central Lakes College opened the NJCAA Division III national golf tournament with a 71 to claim the first-round lead Tuesday at Chautauqua Golf Course.
Hoppe finishes 32nd in first state trip
Molly Hoppe was one shot from duplicating her opening-round 84 Wednesday in the final round of the Class 3A state girls' golf tournament.
A state first for all four
Adam Cook and Dan Burke have already made Aitkin history and they'll look to make more Thursday.
LOCAL SPORTS SHORTS
The Minnesota Twins baseball/softball camp that was scheduled Monday and Tuesday at Mills Field in Brainerd has been canceled due to lack of participants.
Kavanaugh hits her goal
Caitlin Kavanaugh said her goal from the start was to play in the state girls' golf tournament.
GOLF SHORTS
CHASKA - PGA Championship officials announced that tickets will go on sale to the general public July 9 for the 2009 PGA Championship, to be hosted Aug. 10-16, 2009, at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska.
Monda ties for 22nd at state meet
Tyler Monda finished one of the most successful individual seasons in the Brainerd Warrior boys' golf program as he tied for 22nd place in the Class 3A state tournament Wednesday.
Thunder comeback bid falls short in extra innings
After two games this season Brainerd and Waterloo have needed 10-inning games to decide the final score. On Monday the Thunder defeated the Bucks 2-1 in the extra frame. Tuesday Waterloo avenged the loss defeating Brainerd 7-3 with a four-run 10th despite a late inning comeback.
Kavanaugh lands in 56th after first round
Pillager's Caitlin Kavanaugh ended her first round in the Class 1A state girls' golf tournament with a par.
Hoppe: 'My putting was really quite good'
Molly Hoppe's putter was the equalizer Tuesday.
Eigner resigns as boys' hockey coach
For the first time in 10 seasons the Brainerd Warriors boys' hockey program will have a new head coach behind the bench.
Snow receives an 'A' for his work
DEERWOOD - The band didn't play "Pomp and Circumstance" because there was no band or cap and gown or tassel.
Top two spots remain the same
Lakes Financial Service's 23-21 victory over Lakewood Bank May 29 was enough to allow it to hang on to the top spot of the Legacy Courses at Cragun's men's golf league lead.
Hasselberg poised for fourth trip
Cydney Hasselberg has traveled this road before - sort of.
Playground time
Weather drawing by Teya Witthuhn of Ms. Hemstad's third-grade class at Baxter school.
State forecast for N.D.
A dense fog for advisory parts of central and eastern north
State forecast for Minnesota
Flash flood watch for much of northwest minnesota this evening
State forecast for S.D.
Flood watch west to southcentral tonight through thursday...
Wisconsin state forecast
Tornado watch until 11 am for southern wisconsin...
State forecast for Minnesota
Today...Cloudy. Areas of fog in the morning west. Chance of showers or
State forecast for N.D.
Flash flood watch southeast north dakota tonight...
Wisconsin state forecast
Dense fog advisory until 12 noon for far southeast wisconsin...
State forecast for S.D.
Flood watch south central and west through tonight...
Anybody got sun?
Weather drawing by Renae Ford of Mr. Meyer's fourth-grade class at Lowell school.
State forecast for Iowa
Flash flood watch in effect until 10 am for eastern iowa...
State forecast for Iowa
Flash flood watch in effect through tonight for portions of
May rainfall falls below average
It may seem like it's been rainy forever but precipitation in Brainerd in May was 2.35 inches, compared to the 10-year-average of 4.23 inches, the DNR reported.