Thursday, June 28, 2001
Benson has backing, but bad luck now holding him back
SONOMA, Calif. -- After Johnny Benson surprised virtually everyone with a competitive 2000 season that belied the lack of big-bucks sponsorship, his goal for this year was modest: consistency.
GM signs joint venture to manufacture 75,000 SUVs in Russia
MOSCOW (AP) -- General Motors Corp. signed an agreement Wednesday with Russia's largest automaker Avtovaz and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to create a joint venture that will produce 75,000 sport utility vehicles a year.
There's room for more at cars show
The first 80 entrants in the third-annual Century of Cars Show at Gregory Park on Sunday will receive free brass dash plaques.
Elvis-like doll surprise hit for Audi
BERLIN (AP) -- An Elvis-like doll with a gyrating pelvis has become a cult sensation in Germany.
2001 Volvo S40: Love at first drive
It was a fly-by birding, a pre-dawn raid. Splat!
Mazda's small car has youth appeal
Calling all young drivers.
Washington Middle School honor roll announced
The following is the 6th and 7th Grade honor roll for the Second Semester at Washington Middle School:
Married man's affair cost him everything that he didn't know he valued
DEAR ABBY: I have a true story to share. It's the story of a man who married his high school sweetheart. She supported him through college, encouraged him to pursue a degree, and gave him two beautiful children. She became a wonderful mother. She never missed a ballgame. She took the children to church. She worked full time and went without in order to give us more, and he, on the other hand, never helped around the house and became obsessed with his job.
Growing avocados
Dear Heloise: What is the best way to ROOT AN AVOCADO PIT and get it to grow? -- Celine Porter, Phoenix
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Tuesday 114, a year ago 141.
Livestock
SOUTH ST. PAUL, (AP) (USDA) -- Tuesday cattle: 750.
Cash grain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Wheat receipts Wednesday 152, a year ago 229.
Livestock
SOUTH ST. PAUL (AP) (USDA) -- Wednesday cattle: 400.
Fourth of July Ice Cream Tower is sweet salute to flag
Many Fourth of July celebrations feature the flag, blowing in the breeze from porches, printed on clothing, flying from bikes and borne aloft in parades.
Baked beans have tasty place on July 4 menu
Vegetarians may wish to keep in mind that baked beans are one of those American classics that could have a deserved, and tasty, place in a Fourth of July menu.
Special day calls for special food
Cheers! It's that time of the year to celebrate Independence Day. The Happy Birthday of America.
Accidents
MILACA -- Two people were injured Wednesday in a two-vehicle accident on Highway 169 in Milaca.
Crime
THEFTS -- David Gaalswyk, Brainerd, Wednesday reported the theft of a vehicle from the Brainerd-Crow Wing County Regional Airport.
Metals
NEW YORK (AP) -- Spot nonferrous metal prices Wednesday.
How to reach area state legislators
Area legislators and how to contact them.
Fires
The Brainerd Fire Department responded to a cut gas line reported at 10:26 a.m. Monday at 1703 13th Ave. N.E., Brainerd.
Golf tip from a pro
The steady increase in the number of challenging holes in the lakes area in recent years has added many new elements of risk and reward to every round of golf. Good course management skills are often not implemented by the recreational golfer as they instead hit the latest titanium drivers and extra-long golf balls deep into the wetlands and woods around Brainerd. With the high density of trees that are common along the fairways, many people could lower their scores by making better decisions while still on the tee box.
Tianna will elevate golf game
WALKER -- If a priority this summer is to elevate the golf game, Tianna Country Club in Walker will literally do that.
Golf shorts
Marni Lundbohm of Pine Meadows and Keeley Dolan of Cokato shot rounds of 67-68 for a first place score of 135 in the Minnesota Four-Ball Championships at Bearpath Golf Course June 19.
Golf leagues
After a week off due to the weather Greg Larson Sports and Shep's on 6th jumped into the lead of the men's Twilight golf league at Pine Meadows Thursday.
House puts brakes on Bush's bid for Mexican truck access
WASHINGTON -- The House on Tuesday threw an unexpected roadblock in front of the Bush administration's efforts to give Mexican trucks unfettered access to U.S. roads, as envisioned by the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Bills affecting area projects advance
The Little Falls School District would immediately be repaid $500,000 that was withheld from its state aid check last March under a provision in the education funding bill, said Rep. Steve Wenzel, DFL-Little Falls.
Tax bill heard on House, Senate floors
ST. PAUL -- A $900 million tax relief bill made its way to the House and Senate floors Thursday -- a package that includes major property tax relief and changes the way the state funds education.
White House, Mexico blast House vote on truck access
WASHINGTON -- The White House and the Mexican government both expressed outrage Wednesday over a House vote barring Mexican trucks from unfettered use of U.S. roads, and President Bush's spokesman implied that discrimination against Mexicans was behind the action.
Vieques move defended
Navy Secretary Gordon England on Wednesday defended the Bush administration's decision to abandon a firing range on the Puerto Rican island of Vieques, as both Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill accused the administration of playing politics with national security.
Session in progress
ST. PAUL -- Two more bills made their way off the House floor Tuesday, bringing the total to four out of nine that need to be passed by this weekend to avert a government shutdown.
Rumsfeld wants to close more military bases
WASHINGTON -- Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld urged Congress Thursday to allow the Pentagon to close more military bases as a cost-saving measure, but he immediately encountered resistance.
Bush, Sharon disagree on key issues
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Disagreements over key issues marked the second meeting in three months between President Bush and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, just before Secretary of State Colin Powell left for the Middle East to try to shore up a shaky cease-fire.
House vote bans drilling under Great Lakes
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Bush administration's goal to increase domestic oil and gas production took another hit in Congress Thursday with a measure that would effectively ban such drilling under the Great Lakes.
Federal Reserve poised to announce another interest rate cut
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Federal Reserve policy-makers are prepared to administer another bracing tonic to an ailing economy that's showing some signs of improvement: a sixth interest rate cut. But private economists are divided over what they believe is the right dosage.
Bush holds $20 million fund-raising dinner
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Republican lawmakers and donors partied around a giant "W" at a presidential dinner that raised more than $20 million for GOP congressional candidates.
Rumsfeld to propose cutting B-1 bomber force by one-third
WASHINGTON -- In a break with its Cold War past, the Pentagon is proposing a one-third reduction in the Air Force's fleet of B-1B Lancers, the sleek bomber originally built to penetrate Soviet air defenses in the event of nuclear war.
Bush trying to jump-start energy plan
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Bush administration is moving to jump-start its energy plan, which is bogged down in Congress and has failed to win widespread public support despite high gasoline prices and Western electricity shortages.
How they voted
Here is how Minnesota representatives voted in the 285-143 roll call Tuesday by which the House voted to bar the Transportation Department from issuing permits that would allow Mexican trucks to begin traveling deep into the United States beginning in January.
Conservative wins GOP nod in N.J.
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- A mayor who had garnered little backing from the Republican establishment received an outpouring of support from the party's heaviest hitters after winning New Jersey's GOP gubernatorial nomination.
Accountability figures heavily in education bill
ST. PAUL -- As heavy on accountability as it is in dollars, a budget bill for education was completed early Thursday.
Senate lawmakers looking at compromises on HMO bill
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Senate Democrats pushed to finish its sweeping patients' bill of rights on Thursday after the chamber approved a compromise designed to keep solid state laws intact.
Blood test may spot heart attack risk
Cholesterol-lowering drugs may reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in millions of people who have ordinary cholesterol levels but show signs of inflammation in the bloodstream, a study found.
FDA panel to consider tightening restrictions on blood donations to protect against mad cow disease
BETHESDA, Md. -- Health officials anxious to find the best way to protect America's blood supply from mad cow disease are outlining the possibilities before a federal advisory committee considering several different plans.
Study relates jogging and strong bones
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Young men who jog regularly build strong bones and may be less likely to develop the brittle bone disease osteoporosis, a new study finds.
Rules require hospitals to tell patients about mistakes or risk losing accreditation
CHICAGO (AP) -- Hospitals will be required to tell patients when they've been victims of medical errors under safety standards that take effect Sunday.
Tickets on sale for circus in Ironton
IRONTON -- Advance tickets are on sale now for the Carson and Barnes Circus performances Monday, July 16.
Coffee shop serves legal advice over java and pastries
RANIER (AP) -- Some people take their coffee sweetened with cream and sugar. But patrons of Cup O' Justice can get their coffee flavored with a taste of the law.
More than 60 years after 'Oz,' Munchkins still crowd-pleasers
GRAND RAPIDS -- "Hold up your lollipop, Jerry," says his wife. Jerry Maren, 81, holds up his lollipop. It's as big as his face, with curly ribbon tied to the handle -- a replica of the one he had as a Lollipop Kid in "The Wizard of Oz." Three kids and a grandma crowd around him.
Nisswa squad car design wins national contest
NISSWA -- The Nisswa Police Department recently won a national contest for having the best squad car design.
Aitkin High School set for all-class reunion
AITKIN -- Aitkin High School area alumni are busy preparing for the Aitkin All Class Reunion III, which will run Saturday through July 7.
Doll lady of Jenkins
JENKINS -- As a child growing up west of Pequot Lakes, Cindy Brunes made many different types of dolls: cloth dolls, applehead dolls, Play-doh dolls and even soap head dolls. She learned to sew when she was 7.
Family camping trip allows us to reconnect with Minnesota
The family camping trip is a great way to reconnect with wives, husbands, sons and daughters. For as long as I can remember my family has spent at least a week in northern Minnesota's lake country.
Deep Portage still has openings in programs, camps
HACKENSACK -- The Saturday programs and climbing wall reservations at Deep Portage Conservation Reserve are filling up. There are still openings for the following:
Appearances deceive in 'A Perfect Arrangement'
Has any novelist written so well on contemporary family life?
Wellstone announces federal funds to benefit Riverwood HealthCare Center
AITKIN -- Riverwood HealthCare Center, as part of a consortium with Cuyuna Regional Medical Center, Crosby, and Mercy Hospital, Moose Lake, applied for a Distance Learning and Telemedicine Federal Grant to implement a telemedical system that would allow them to link their surgical services.
Donors help CLC program keep pace with technology
STAPLES -- In times of budgetary uncertainty, it helps to have friends in high places.
Today's summer camps more varied, plentiful than ever
Some sit by a campfire and roast marshmallows with top business executives.
Area health briefs
Cass County will offer blood pressure and immunization clinics in July.
Baxter police arrest 20 on burglary charges
BAXTER -- Twenty people, ranging in age from 17-23, were arrested on burglary charges by the Baxter Police Department early today.
Board told of shortage of day-care homes
Finding a day-care provider for a child in Crow Wing County may be difficult.
Trees available for storm victims
Kari Peterson of Baxter said Monday that Bork Tree Farms of has agreed to donate 3,500 tree seedlings for people affected by the June 13 tornado that hit just southeast of Brainerd.
Group meets over present and future tornado relief needs in area
While victims of the tornado that damaged about 70 homes June 13 work to put them back together, a group has met to ensure those families will have help for years to come.
Board holds off on change to in-house tax, financial system
The Crow Wing County Board agreed to hold off on making a change in the county's in-house tax system and financial system Tuesday.
Loons join fishing party
Rick Torvinen (left) Ina Chambliss and Jim Huntley are joined by a trio of loons as they fish in the Mahnomen Pit Lake near Ironton Tuesday night. Warm temperatures have brought summer back to central Minnesota with area residents heading for the outdoors.
This was Brainerd
20 years ago (1981) - Bad news, namely the 1981-82 Brainerd School District Budget Proposal, was delivered Friday to members of the Finance Committee who were told the district would be in the red by $858,579 at the end of that fiscal year.
Four arrested in drug bust in Crosby
CROSBY -- Four people were arrested on drug-related charges Wednesday at a residence in Crosby.
Take the plunge
Wish the backyard had a pool this week? Residential pools come in a variety of options and are easier than ever to maintain. Look for the story in Friday's Housing section.
Nominations sought for Head Start awards programs
Tri-County Community Action Program Inc. is accepting applications for the Parent of the Year award, Father of the Year award, Beating the Odds award, Ann Phipps Memorial Scholarship and the Phyllis Jones Memorial Scholarship.
This was Brainerd
20 years ago (1981)-The Exchange Club of Brainerd will holds its annual Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social July 3 at Gregory Park. The event is part of the Johnny Inkslinger Celebration.
Local briefs
The Crow Wing County Historical Society will be closed Wednesday.
Local briefs
Additional funding for two Morrison County projects is included in the budget bill for economic development that passed the House Tuesday.
Outgunned
Brandon Lawson reacted to getting doused with Trey Sattler's squirt gun as the pair were among several children from Learn and Play Daycare Center in Pequot Lakes playing with all sizes of squirt guns at the Nisswa City Park on Wednesday. The high in Brainerd Wednesday was 90. (Dispatch Photo by Clint Wood)
Stricter dock regulations discussed by county board
Waterfront property owners in Crow Wing County may see stricter regulations on the way they place their docks in the water.
Important breast cancer progress cited
Scientists have created mice that are immune to some of the most common types of breast cancer, a development they say brings science a step closer to developing drugs to precisely block the spread of breast cancer in humans.
Fed shaves interest rate
WASHINGTON -- The Federal Reserve shaved a quarter of a percentage point Wednesday from its chief signal-sending interest rate, driving the rate to a seven-year low of 3.75 percent in an effort to keep a stubbornly sluggish economy from slipping into recession.
Father eulogizes his five slain children
HOUSTON -- If ever a man stood alone, it was Russell Yates, who paced at the head of a dim brown church and choked down sobs long enough to eulogize his slain children Wednesday morning.
Bridgestone/Firestone to close Decatur tire factory
DETROIT -- Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. said Wednesday it will close its tire factory in Decatur, Ill., which was the main source of defective tires involved in last year's extensive recall.
Supreme Court says immigrants cannot be locked up indefinitely
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Immigrants who have committed crimes in the United States cannot be locked up indefinitely just because the government has no place to send them, the Supreme Court ruled Thursday.
Supreme Court rules state tobacco ad restrictions can't exceed federal law
WASHINGTON -- A state government may not impose its own broad advertising restrictions on tobacco beyond the federal law that bans cigarette ads on television and requires warning labels on packages, the Supreme Court ruled Thursday.
Thousands arrested in anti-smuggling sting operation
WASHINGTON -- Law enforcement officials have arrested nearly 8,000 people from 39 countries who allegedly attempted to enter the United States and Canada illegally in a sting described as one of the largest multinational anti-smuggling operations ever, authorities said Wednesday.
Government advises caution with fireworks
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Americans should view fireworks from a distance to prevent Fourth of July festivities from turning into a trip to the emergency room, federal safety officials said Thursday.
Retired Army Reserve officer found guilty of spying for Russians
MIAMI -- A federal jury in Tampa, Fla., took only two hours Tuesday to find a 74-year-old Florida man guilty of espionage for smuggling thousands of pages of U.S. classified documents to the KGB.
Choked river
BOCA CHICA STATE PARK, Texas (AP) -- The once-mighty Rio Grande is so tapped out it doesn't even reach the Gulf of Mexico anymore.
Jack Lemmon dies
LOS ANGELES -- Jack Lemmon, the two-time Oscar winner whose acting talents ranged from adroit comedies "The Apartment" and "Some Like It Hot" to the dramatic intensity of "Days of Wine and Roses" and "Tuesdays with Morrie," has died. He was 76.
Iwo Jima heroes on hand for commissioning of ship Iwo Jima
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- Hershel Williams' most vivid memory of Iwo Jima is the sound of machine gun bullets bouncing off a steel flame thrower strapped to his back as he crawled toward a Japanese bunker.
New Yorkers ready to ban hand-held cell phones in cars
NEW YORK -- "I think it's very good because drivers are distracted when they are on the phone," said Eric Nkrumah, a chauffeur, as he sat in his parked limousine on Tuesday. "Safety is more important, and that's my main concern."
Microsoft breakup reversed
WASHINGTON -- A federal appeals court unanimously reversed the breakup of Microsoft on Thursday, agreeing with the software maker that the trial judge engaged in "serious judicial misconduct" by making derogatory comments about the company.
Court rules against Rhode Island man who was hero to conservatives
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Supreme Court ruled Thursday against a Rhode Island man whose 40-year struggle to develop his coastal marshland became a rallying cry for conservatives angry over government regulation of private property.
Rocker pitches perfect ninth, records first save as Indian
NEW YORK (AP) -- New uniform, same old John Rocker.
Agassi rolls, Sampras survives threat by unheralded Briton
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) -- Andre Agassi did easily Thursday what Pete Sampras barely managed to do a day earlier -- beat an unheralded English player at Wimbledon.
Douglas, Miller honored by Big Ten
PARK RIDGE, Ill (AP) -- Purdue basketball player Katie Douglas and Michigan State hockey player Ryan Miller have been named athletes of the year in the Big Ten Conference.
Serena Williams in command again at Wimbledon
WIMBLEDON, England (AP) -- Serena Williams tried something new Wednesday then went back to what she does best -- hit hard and win easily.
Puckett, Branca, Thomson to serve as All-Star honorary captains
NEW YORK (AP) -- Hall of Fame newcomer Kirby Puckett, along with Bobby Thomson and Ralph Branca, will serve as honorary captains for the All-Star game at Safeco Field next month.
Wizards pick high school senior with NBA first pick
NEW YORK (AP) -- Already young and bad, the Chicago Bulls got younger and worse -- at least for the short term.
Elmer Winslow
PINE RIVER -- Elmer Winslow, 85, Pine River, died Wednesday, June 27, 2001, at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd.
Joseph 'Haney' L. Czeczok
Joseph "Haney" L. Czeczok, 73, Brainerd, died Saturday, June 23, 2001, at home.
Zita Wenker
Zita Wenker, 93, Brainerd, died Tuesday, June 26, 2001, at St. Mary's Villa in Pierz.
James H. Brockman
James H. Brockman, 69, Brainerd, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at home.
F. Mabel Anhalt
F. Mabel Anhalt, 94, Brainerd, died today, June 28, 2001, at Lutheran Care Center in Little Falls.
Kenneth J. Stroman
BISHOP, Calif. -- Kenneth James Stroman, 80, Bishop, Calif., formerly of Eagle Rock, Calif., died Monday, June 25, 2001.
William J. McCollough
SARASOTA, Fla. -- William J. McCollough, 82, former publisher of The Brainerd Daily Dispatch, died Friday, June 15, 2001, in Sarasota, Fla.
Barbara Tomala
PIERZ -- Barbara Tomala, 94, Pierz, died Wednesday, June 27, 2001, at St. Mary's Villa in Pierz.
Alice H. Milbradt
NORMAL, Ill. -- Alice H. Milbradt, 75, Normal, Ill., died Monday, June 18, 2001, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington.
Helen Nelson
SWANVILLE -- Helen Nelson, 96, Swanville, died Wednesday, June 27, 2001, at home.
Robert Hamm
LITTLE FALLS -- Robert Hamm, 86, Little Falls, died Tuesday, June 26, 2001, at St. Otto's Care Center in Little Falls.
Gerald 'Gere' A. Williams
AITKIN -- Gerald "Gere" A. Williams, 84, Aitkin, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at home.
William Osborn
ST. CLOUD -- William Osborn, Brainerd, died Wednesday, June 27, 2001, a the Talahi Care Center in St. Cloud.
Gary J. Eberly
Gary J. Eberly, 46, Brainerd, died Tuesday, June 26, 2001, at home.
Lawrence 'Bud' Weishalla
STAPLES -- Lawrence "Bud" Weishalla, 70, Staples, died Tuesday, June 26, 2001, at home.
Yvonne E. Ranstedt
BRAZIL, Ind. -- Yvonne Erlene Ranstedt, 64, Brazil, Ind., died Tuesday, June 19, 2001, at Clay Health Center in Brazil, Ind.
Harvey 'Ping' Purinton
ST. CLOUD -- Harvey "Ping" Purinton, 95, St. Cloud, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at his home.
Evelyn M. Atwood
ROBBINSDALE -- Evelyn M. Atwood, 89, Robbinsdale, died Sunday, June 24, 2001, at home.
Eugene 'Dale' Elyea
PINE RIVER -- Eugene "Dale" Elyea, 87, Pine River, formerly of Backus, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at the Whispering Pines Good Samaritan Home in Pine River.
Verner W. Chileen
IRONTON -- Verner W. Chileen, 77, Ironton, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at his home.
Sadie Zoren
LITTLE FALLS -- Sadie Zoren, 86, Little Falls, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at St. Otto's Care Center in Little Falls.
Lucille Rubey
PINE RIVER -- Lucille Rubey, 93, Pine River, died today, June 28, 2001, at Whispering Pines Good Samaritan Center in Pine River.
Dale M. Ritchie
LITTLE FALLS -- Dale M. Ritchie, 71, Little Falls, died Monday, June 25, 2001, at the St. Cloud Hospital.
High court was right on campaign funding
The following editorial appeared in Tuesday's Washington Post:
OTHER OPINIONS The right message
It's being touted as a victory for patients' rights, a warning to managed care and even a big political feather in the cap of Minnesota Attorney General Mike Hatch.
Open Forum
Classic bullies, such as our distinguished governor, love to wreak havoc on society and then walk away with a cigar in their mouth and a smirk on their face!
Playing 'chicken'
Special interest muscle-flexing, ideological bickering , plus off-beat notions about property tax relief, propel the states' two main political parties into a game of "chicken" with the state budget. Shutdown of state government looms. It's not pretty.
Sound off!
The Dispatch encourages readers to sound off in the Open Forum.
Tornado relief
Perhaps it's a tribute to the Brainerd area's generosity or to the independence of victims of the June 13 tornado, but the lakes area seems to have more givers than takers when it comes to tornado relief.
News council can help readers
The Minnesota News Council is an independent organization that examines citizens' complaints alleging inaccuracy, unfairness or unethical conduct by the media.
Gottsch responds to firing
As I thought just last week, I have fished only three hours this year. Now, most who know me, know that is not much -- well, I've got some catching up to do. My law enforcement career of 25 years was ended last week.
Jarrett still hopes to challenge for title
SONOMA, Calif. -- There was only so much Dale Jarrett could do about an agonizing torn chest muscle. Heavy-duty painkillers are not an option in racing, where always being alert is paramount.
NCMS standings
North Central Motor Speedway
State rest areas start closing today
More than 100 Minnesota rest areas will begin closing today in anticipation of a potential state government shutdown.
Conference committee agrees on tax relief bill
ST. PAUL (AP) -- The most contentious bill of the session has been, for the most part, wrapped up.
Cooling off
Philip Andringa (left) and Kyle Snyder sailed through the air into Lake Sisseton after jumping off the end of a dock on a bike Wednesday evening at Sylvania Park in Fairmont. (AP Photo)
Education panel winding up work on school finance bill
ST. PAUL (AP) -- After putting to rest an annual fight over the Profile of Learning, a committee worked into Wednesday morning on some of the remaining details of a $8.7 billion spending bill for public schools.
Grams' son sentenced to nearly 11 years
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (AP) -- Morgan Grams, son of former Sen. Rod Grams, R-Minn., was sentenced to 10 years and 364 days in prison for possession of a stolen car and six other charges.
Hasselberg chases junior leader
PEQUOT LAKES --It was hot and sticky at Grand View Lodge's Preserve Golf Course, but 82 junior golfers trekked the 6,601-yard hilly course Wednesday in chase of a dream.
Mincks picks up win for Mighty Gulls
ALEXANDRIA -- Lincoln Mincks picked up his first win of the season as the Brainerd Mighty Gulls got back to their winning ways with a 7-3 win over the Alexandria Beetles in Northwoods League baseball Wednesday.
Local sports shorts
The Cuyuna Running, Track and Field Club will be hosting two All-Comer track meets July 18 and July 25.
Scoreboard
Northwoods League Baseball
Alexandria pummels Brainerd Legion 14-3
BRAINERD-- The Brainerd Legion Baseball team suffered a painful 14-3 loss against Alexandria at Don Adamson Field on Tuesday.
Local sports shorts
J.P. Platisha, of Baxter, has been selected to play in the 2001 USA Hockey National Festival in St. Cloud Friday-July 5.
Scoreboard
Northwoods League Baseball
Mighty Gulls falter
Before his start Tuesday at Mills Field, Mighty Gulls starting pitcher Josh Oliver had walked just two batters and had given up four earned runs in 31 innings pitched.
Hocking boots triple in ninth to kick Twins over White Sox
(AP) -- The Minnesota Twins are making a habit of winning at the wire.
Timberwolves take Arizona center Loren Woods
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- For the Minnesota Timberwolves, this year's draft choice was worth the wait.
Twins down White Sox, move back into first place
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Just as the Chicago White Sox were poised to move back into the AL Central race, they ran into the Minnesota Twins.
Pearl Harbor exhibit opens at military museum
LITTLE FALLS -- The Minnesota Military Museum on the grounds of Camp Ripley near Little Falls opened an exhibit commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on Dec. 7, 1941.
Roth, Steel, Collins also offer new novels
Robert B. Parker and Loren D. Estleman are known for their many crime novels. But for his new novel, each has turned his attention from modern-day urban private eye to Old West lawman.
Preparations under way at 'Survivor's' next site, a Kenyan nature reserve
SHABA GAME RESERVE, Kenya -- The park ranger turns tourists away at a roadblock, a front loader pours gravel into a dump truck and a generator whirs in the distance.
Novelist Weaver finds success away from sports fiction
Tune into a conversation with novelist Will Weaver and you can detect a writer in transition.
Arts in the Park
You won't be able to move around Brainerd or Baxter this weekend without bumping into activities connected to the towns' American Celebration, so you might as well join in.
Television network actress returning home to play role in Paul Bunyan Playhouse production
BEMIDJI -- For two decades, Minnesota native Bonnie Urseth has turned her "wholesome, Midwestern look" into a hefty career as a network television actress.
Cars, characters lacking in 'The Fast and the Furious'
"The Fast and the Furious" owes allegiance to those 1950s youthful gang movies that featured drag races, vacuous babes and muscle-bound hoods who knew everything there was to know about a car and little else.
Best books
1. "P Is for Peril" by Sue Grafton (Putnam)
Family oriented freedom festival to feature rock-climbing wall, street dance, food stands
Liberty Savings Bank of Baxter is taking a cue from its name to get involved in the lakes area's weeklong Fourth of July celebration.
July 4th events
5 p.m. -- Picnic for developmentally disabled adults, Camp Confidence.
Bluegrass gospel musical comedy, improvisational show both start July 5
You need a high-speed electronic calendar to keep up with the staccato pace of Central Lakes College's summer theater season.
Plenty of Fourth of July activities offered
Tourism events around the state of Minnesota. For more information, visit http://www.exploreminnesota.com or call (800) 657-3700 or (651) 296-5029 in the Twin Cities area.
Tempo tidbits
The Great River Arts Association is combining its Sunday afternoon Concert in the Park event with a "wellness festival" sponsored by Little Falls Community Partnership.
Street-racing flick opens 'fast and furious'
LOS ANGELES (AP) -- The street-racing thriller "The Fast and the Furious" ran laps around the competition, debuting as the No. 1 film with a $40.1 million weekend gross.
Moondance Jam grows beyond founders' wildest dreams
WALKER -- When Bill and Kathy Bieloh created Moondance Jam in 1991, they envisioned a family oriented "backyard party."
'See How They Run' in Aitkin
Liz Soderquist (left), Kelly Blake and Ed Rosenbaum rehearsed for the production of "See How They Run." Tickets for the Friday-Monday show are $5.
Entertainment Calendar
Live music
Reclusive Little Falls artist agrees to show works
LITTLE FALLS -- Reclusive artist Warren Woodworth has relinquished about 130 of his best paintings and sketches for a pair of area exhibits this month and next.
Art In The Park scheduled in Walker
WALKER -- Art In The Park will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 13 and 14 in Walker on the park's lakefront in downtown Walker.
Brainerd superintendent to discuss challenges
Jerry Walseth, Brainerd School District superintendent, will discuss challenges the district faces from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, July 9, at a brown bag lunch in the Brainerd Public Library large meeting room.
African gospel group to swing through Brainerd lakes area
An African gospel group that apparently thrilled audiences during an abbreviated Minnesota tour last year is returning in July for encore performances at several area churches and Bible camps.
Paintings reflecting Fergus Falls artist's environment at Ripple River Gallery
DEERWOOD -- The paintings of Fergus Falls artist Charles Beck are being featured through Aug. 5 in an exhibit at Ripple River Gallery, rural Deerwood.
DNR and Nisswa Garden Club to plant butterfly garden along trail
NISSWA -- The Nisswa Garden Club and the DNR are embarking on a plan to create a butterfly garden along the Paul Bunyan State Trail in downtown Nisswa.
Crow Wing County senior citizens picnic is July 19 at Mission Park
MISSION TOWNSHIP -- Senior citizens are invited to attend the Crow Wing County Senior Citizens Picnic, sponsored by the Crow Wing County Council on Aging and co-sponsored by Mid-Minnesota Federal Credit Union, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 19, at Mission Park.
Nisswa Freedom Days Parade is Tuesday
NISSWA -- The Nisswa Freedom Days Parade will be Tuesday, July 3, led by Grand Marshal Ingrid Anderson.
Red-winged blackbirds fight off graceful but deadly intruder
"Oak-a-lee! Oak-a-lee!" three male red-winged blackbirds scolded loudly as they swooped up and down over the cattails at the edge of the still swamp. "Oak-a-lee!" they chided again and again.
Area briefs
JENKINS -- The 14th annual reunion of former students, faculty and friends of Jenkins School will be held Saturday, July 7.
Wisconsin state forecast
Today...A chance for thunderstorms northeast. Otherwise...Partly to mostly sunny. Highs in the 80s to around 90. Cooler near lake michigan.
Iowa state forecast
Today...Mostly sunny. An isolated late afternoon thunderstorm possible. Highs in the mid 80s to lower 90s.
State forecast for North Dakota...
This afternoon...Variable cloudiness with scattered thunderstorms
State forecast for North Dakota
Today...Scattered thunderstorms north...Possibly severe this afternoon. Partly sunny...Very warm and humid central and south. Highs from the upper 70s near the international border to the upper 80s south.
Minnesota state forecast
Today...Partly cloudy. A chance of thunderstorms north. Highs from the lower 80s north to the middle 90s south.
Wisconsin state forecast
Today...Partly to mostly sunny. A chance for thunderstorms north...And far southwest. Highs in the 80s to near 90. Cooler near the great lakes.
Regional Weather
HighLowPR
State forecast for South Dakota
Today...Partly cloudy. Widely scattered showers and thunderstorms central this morning...A slight chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms west. Breezy central and east. Highs 85 to 95.
I got one
Weather drawing by Dustin Aune of Mrs. Ahlers' third grade class at Lincoln school.
The Weather Elsewhere
Wednesday
It's very hot
Weather drawing by Cherice Hummel of Mr. Barber's second grade class at Whittier school.
State forecast for South Dakota...
Rest of today...Scattered showers and thunderstorms north and west...Otherwise mostly sunny. Highs upper 80s to near 100.
Minnesota state forecast
Today...Mostly sunny and hot south. Partly cloudy and warm north with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. Highs from the mid 80s north to lower 90s south. Tonight...A chance of thunderstorms north and west. Lows generally in the 60s.
Iowa state forecast
Today...Partly to mostly sunny. Isolated late afternoon thunderstorms...Mainly south. Highs in the 80s.
What's doing
MERRIFIELD -- The Lake Edward Conservation Club spring meeting will be Saturday at the Merrifield Marathons Snowmobile Club building on Highway 25 south of Merrifield from 10 a.m. to noon with sloppy joes to follow the business meeting.
Homemade taco seasoning
Dear Heloise: I am looking for a recipe for homemade taco seasoning. -- Frances Flaspohler, Via E-mail.
Study looks at health of caregivers following death of spouse
CHICAGO (AP) -- People who go through the stress of taking care of an elderly, ill spouse are better prepared to deal with their mate's death than those whose husbands or wives die more suddenly, a study suggests.
Hot tub nudity causes temperatures to rise
DEAR ABBY: We installed a hot tub several years ago. We are always naked when we use it. However, when we entertain guests, we let them know in advance that it is their choice whether to wear bathing suits or not. If they opt to wear suits, we ask if they care if we or other guests are naked. Most guests opt to soak in the nude; those who don't have no problem with others being naked.
Names and faces
SANTA MONICA, Calif. -- Stand-up comedian Paula Poundstone was arrested and jailed Wednesday on charges of committing lewd acts against a child and child endangerment.
Author Brock says he lied about Anita Hill in book
WASHINGTON -- David Brock, who made his name trashing Anita Hill after the Clarence Thomas confirmation hearings, now says he lied -- and he's sorry.
Mississippi Horizons honor students
The following is the Mississippi Horizons second semester honor roll:
Names and faces
NEW YORK (AP) -- Greg Brady's fighting back.
What's doing
There will be a senior dance at 1:30 p.m. Friday at Deerwood Auditorium. Music by Helen, Don and Merle.
U.N. AIDS conference ends with promise to wage world war on killer disease
UNITED NATIONS -- Buoyed by the success of a historic three-day U.N. summit on AIDS, politicians, health experts and activists now face the challenge of putting to action their battle plan to halt the killer disease's relentless march across the globe.
Accord reached on AIDS plan
UNITED NATIONS (AP) -- Delegates at a U.N. AIDS conference headed into the final day of a historic global gathering with an agreement on a plan to fight HIV and AIDS for years to come.
Peruvian ambassador to Japan called back for consultations
TOKYO (AP) -- Peru's ambassador to Japan has been called home for consultations, a Foreign Ministry official said Wednesday, amid mounting demands that Tokyo extradite deposed Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori.
French court recommends extradition of American accused in slaying of abortion doctor
RENNES, France (AP) -- A French court on Thursday recommended the extradition to the United States of James Charles Kopp -- one of the FBI's most wanted fugitives, charged in the 1998 sniper-style killing of a New York doctor who performed abortions.
Flawed responses to disasters do more harm than good, says Red Cross
GENEVA (AP) -- Badly thought-out aid efforts that don't pay enough attention to rebuilding the economy of a devastated area can do more harm than good to disaster victims in the long run, leaving them vulnerable to future catastrophes, said a Red Cross report published Thursday.
World Court backs German claim over U.S. execution of German brothers
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) -- The United States violated the rights of Germany and two of its citizens when it denied the condemned brothers access to their consulate before executing them in 1999 for murder, the World Court ruled Wednesday.
Macedonian president links U.S. to civil war danger
SKOPJE, Macedonia (AP) -- Macedonia's president said the Balkan country could have been brought to civil war through rioting triggered by the U.S.-assisted NATO evacuation of ethnic Albanian rebels.
Milosevic lawyers delay Yugoslav hearing on extradition order, war crimes indictment
BELGRADE, Yugoslavia -- Lawyers for Slobodan Milosevic filed a request Wednesday that two judges and a prosecutor be dismissed from his case, delaying a hearing that would have moved the former president closer to being extradited to a U.N. war crimes tribunal.