Go, Go, Go Joseph!
by Aleah Stenberg
Contributing Writer
    Theatre-goers poured in to the Big Lake High School auditorium Friday evening for the opening night performance of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat." Four standing ovations later, the cast and crew gave their final bow to another packed house  Sunday afternoon.
    From the moment audiences entered Big Lake High School, they were transported to ancient Egypt, the setting for the majority of the play. Claudia Forsberg's Painting II class painted Egyptian coverings for a dozen pillars lining the atrium and created fun photo op cutouts of a pharaoh and camels. Jared Czech's sculpture students created pyramids and several parachutes borrowed from various Big Lake athletic departments also made a bold statement in the lobby.
A Well-Loved Play
    "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" was conceived by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Tim Rice, the same duo behind the popular shows "Jesus Christ Superstar" and "Evita." While originally created as a short pop cantata for a school in London, the show was expanded and staged in the West End, London's theatre district, in 1973. In 1982, "Joseph" was produced on Broadway. Wildly popular for its memorable music and family-friendly content, "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" is a well-loved show that has been produced in thousands of schools worldwide.
    The plot follows the biblical tale of Joseph, recorded in Genesis 37-47, but it is a complete musical retelling utilizing multiple genres of music. All the lines in this rock/pop operetta are sung, except for some ad-libs along the way, and were underscored by a live pit band under the direction of Lisa Hager.
The Curtain Opens
    "Way, way back many centuries ago, not long after the Bible began, Jacob lived in the land of Canaan, a fine example of a family man," introduced the first Narrator (played by Jessica Stenberg) with fanfare. Soon the second Narrator (Megan Martin) joined her as they continued: "Jacob was the founder of a whole new nation thanks to the number of children he had. He was also known as Israel, but most of the time, his sons and his wives used to call him Dad."
    As the Narrators introduced Jacob (BLMS teacher Kurt Brethorst) and his 12 sons, Reuben (Kadin Murray), Simeon (Alexander Hugh Prom), Levi (Richie Lange), Issachar (Jayden Blonigen), Napthali (Nelson Rodriguez), Asher (Zach LaFontaine), Dan (Zach Keuhn/Hailey Crowe), Zebulon (Jacob Kempf), Gad (Matt Neeser), Benjamin (Seth Paulson), Judah (Korri Wojack) and Joseph (Trent Ramert), the scene exploded with characters, color, movement, and music.
    Trouble arises early when Jacob gives his favorite son, Joseph, a "dazzling coat of many colors." Naturally, the other eleven are jealous of their brother who is not only the favored son, but also has dreams that one day he will rule and the brothers will bow to him. Fed up, the brothers fix to kill him, but change their minds and decide to sell Joseph as a slave to some passing Ishmaelites (Sabrina Thompson and Jade Kissel) and their cantankerous camel (Alissa McClure and Morgan Benner) on their way to Egypt.
    Reuben and the brothers relay the "sad news" of Joseph's "death" to Jacob back at home during the country-western tune "One More Angel in Heaven" which features a commendable whistling cadence and solo performed by Jenna Wendlandt. Asher (Zach LaFontaine) reports, "When I think of his last great battle, a lump comes to my throat. It takes a man who knows no fear to wrastle with a goat."
    When the Narrators finally catch up to Joseph in Egypt, they discover he has been sold to a captain named Potiphar (Kadin Murray) who has made a huge fortune by investing in pyramids. Through a 1920s Charleston-esque ditty complete with canes, they recount how Joseph rises to prominence as a slave in Potiphar's household, but is sent to "rot in jail" after Potiphar's seductive wife (Evi Wandersee) attempts to make a move on him.
    Lamenting this turn of events, Joseph sings "Close Every Door" accompanied by the Children's Chorus, a choir of 32 third through fifth graders from Liberty and Independence elementary schools who have been present throughout the show, adding their sweet sounds to the symphony.
    The Narrators and children cheer Joseph up during the Act I finale "Go, Go, Go Joseph." During this segment, Joseph interprets dreams for the royal Baker (Hannah Schoening) and Butler (Jayden Blonigen) who end up in his jail cell. Soon the entire ensemble joins in, grooving to the disco tune: "Go, go, go Joseph, you know what they say. Hang on now, Joseph, you'll make it some day. Sha la la Joseph, you're doing fine. You and your Dreamcoat ahead of your time."
Act II Action
    Introducing the second act, the Narrators explain that "all of a sudden there's been visions and things. Disturbing the sleep of both peasants and kings. Strange as it seems, there's been a run of crazy dreams, and a man who can interpret could go far - could become a star." One of those people haunted by dreams is Pharaoh, who is none other than the hip-gyrating, women-swooning Elvis (Alexander Hugh Prom).
    Joseph is called from his jail cell to interpret Pharaoh's dream in "Song of the King," a rock 'n roll number complete with a doo-wop chorus of Egyptian women. Pharaoh's dream of cows and corn is interpreted to mean that seven years of plenty will be followed by seven years of famine. Joseph suggests putting someone in charge of managing the grain, and gets promoted to the job himself. The inmate becomes Egypt's second-in-command.
    Back home in Canaan, Jacob and the brothers are starving and recall "Those Canaan Days" of parties and plenty in a beret-raising French bistro refrain. The moves of the alluring Apache Dancer (Jacqui Miller) were featured as the brothers reminisced. Eventually, Levi (Richie Lange) suggests they go to Egypt, where they have food to spare, and the brothers head off to ask Joseph, whom they do not recognize, for food.
    Joseph easily identifies his brothers, deciding to test them to see if they have changed. After dealing harshly with them, he gives them the supplies they need, but hides his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. Sending them on their way, Joseph orders, "Stop! You robbers, your little number's up. One of you has stolen my precious silver cup." When the chalice is discovered in Benjamin's pack, he is locked in jail.
    The other ten brothers fervently defend their youngest sibling in "Benjamin Calypso" asking Joseph to punish them instead: "Oh no. Not he! How you can accuse him is a mystery. Save him. Take me! Benjamin is straighter than the tall palm tree."
    When Joseph sees that his brothers have changed, from attempting fratricide in Act I to taking the blame themselves in order to save their brother, he reveals who he is. As they kneel before Joseph, his dream of 11 stars and 11 sheaves of corn bowing to him is fulfilled.
    The Narrators bring back the coat of many colors and ceremoniously adorn Joseph. As the huge, colorful train unfurls, the cast fills the stage during the finale reprise of Joseph's theme, "Any Dream Will Do."
Unique Aspects
    "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" is the third musical to be produced by Big Lake. Director Barbara Hynes-Tomczyk directed "Cinderella" in 2015, "The Little Mermaid" last year, and now "Joseph" at BLHS.
    "This show is so challenging, fast-moving, and fun!" said Hynes-Tomczyk, immensely proud of the students' work. "There are no dull parts. Even the camel is a fun part."
    A unique element Hynes-Tomczyk brought to the BLHS production was splitting the Narrator role into two parts. Thought originally portrayed by a single actress, the dual Narrators were able to play off each other, add to the action on stage, and break the fourth wall by addressing the audience directly throughout the show.
    "I like getting to narrate the show and also be a character in it," said Narrator Megan Martin, who snaps the family photo during her favorite sequence, "Jacob and Sons."
    Jessica Stenberg, the other Narrator, enjoyed the collaboration of sharing the role. "Having two narrators allows you to work as a family unit and collaboratively engage the audience. It was the most delightful show I've ever done because of the energy I was able to receive from the audience and reflect back to them. Working together as an ensemble and the audience itself were the most exhilarating things about the show."
    The Narrators carried a substantial musical responsibility, and essentially sang or were on stage for the entire show. Because the role is only written for a single voice, Stenberg developed her own harmonies to add depth and balance to the expressly soprano music.
    Another addition was the Children's Chorus. These elementary students, under the direction of Adam Tulkki and Megan Chopard-Boge, added their voices and presence to many of the scenes, making them more colorful and dynamic.
    "My favorite part was the Children's Choir," said enthused theatre patron Laurie McConnell. "I thought they were fantastic. I loved how they were incorporated in the story, the cute dances they were a part of, and how well-behaved they were. They added a lot to the show."
All Together Now
    One of the elements that made this production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" such a success was the overwhelmingly strong sense of ensemble. From the narrating duo and Children's Chorus, to the strong group of male voices and the ensembles of women in their flowing robes or glittering mini-skirts, there were constantly multiple layers of action and color happening on stage. The lobby decorations and the house management team further enhanced the production by making it an experience from the moment guests walked through the door.  
    Even the fact that the entire show is sung required great collaboration between the pit band and the actors. The constant underscore meant that pacing never dropped and the energy only built. Hynes-Tomczyk compared the show to a rocket ship that takes off and never stops.
    One of the reasons Hynes-Tomczyk picked "Joseph" was the strong men's ensemble required for the brothers. "This is a great show to bring boys into the department. We show them how fun it is to sing and act, and we build up a theatre department."
    Vocal Director Mary Ebanks also recounted their search for this show. "When the director and I were talking about what musical to do in 2017, I kept believing, 'If we build it, they will come!' And lo, and behold, we had a sufficient number of men audition and be part of the musical! Some of them are currently part of the BLHS choir program; some are not, but I truly believed they discovered a new voice!"
    That is great news for the growing Big Lake Theatre Department.
The Future of Big Lake Theatre
    Mary Ebanks, like Joseph, is also a dreamer. When she started teaching at BLHS in 2012, her dream was to bring musicals to the school. Putting into action one of the quotes from the show: "if you think it, want it, dream it, then it's real," it was with help and encouragement from district and school administrators and staff, the community, and the students, that her dream became a reality in 2015.
    "We just successfully completed our third musical in Big Lake. Students have created life-long memories and friends, and their lives have changed because of their experience being in a high school musical production. They have demonstrated amazing talent, energy, and incredible creativity. It is evident the fine arts are growing and necessary in this community and my vision is to keep providing quality fine arts in Big Lake. This includes concerts, musicals, and community performances," stated Ebanks.
  Thanks Where It's Due    
    The Big Lake Schools would like to thank their donors who contributed financially to produce "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" which include the Monticello Lions, Big Lake Spud Fest, and the Knights of Columbus.
    Many other individuals and organizations have also given of their time, talent, and resources to make this show a success. Notably, Brad Schnitzler and his team at Big Lake Community Education have also been instrumental in producing this show.
    BLHS Principal Bob Dockendorf summed up his "Joseph" experience in this way: "It was an amazing performance!  The effort put into delivering such a quality musical was bar-raising.  I thought last year's musical was incredible and this one was even better." 
    "I am very proud to know such talented students who gave their all to make this a huge success!  I also know that there were many community members and staff involved in this production that gave of themselves to invest in our school and students to help make this a momentous event for Big Lake."
    So, even though the set is struck and the costumes are tucked away, the plans and dreams for future musicals that will delight the entire community still live on - just waiting for tomorrow. And in the words of Joseph which start and end the show: "Any dream will do."
    

The BLHS trap shooting team’s picture will appear in this year’s school annual, The Laker.
   The issue, which went viral Thursday with statewide reaction, was resolved by the BLHS administration earlier that day, at which time they they made an exception to their long-standing policy regarding omission of firearms displays from the book.
   The outcry drew perhaps two dozen district residents to Thursday’s board of education meeting, and two residents spoke during open forum in favor of having the picture in the yearbook.
   The issue was put to rest following those remarks by BLHS Principal Bob Dockendorf, who first recited their policy, then spoke to the changing of their policy to allow the trap shooting team picture, with guns, into the yearbook.
   That came after receipt of a written request by the trap supporters during a meeting with administration earlier Thursday.
   The school’s policy regarding such is that all photos, written text and artwork, must conform to school policies and are subject to approval by the yearbook advisor and/or administration. Photos and artwork that violate school policy display firearms, weapons, drugs, alcohol, inappropriate gestures or poses, and revealing or obscene clothing may be edited or excluded without permission or notification.
   The exception to the trap team will include posting of a team picture in the school and any approved photos taken by yearbook staff. These photos would include their firearms.
   Like in many Minnesota school communities, trap shooting has grown in popularity in recent years, with an estimated 12,000 students participating in the activity.
   “I want to thank the coaches of the trapshooting team for honoring the process and allowing time for a decision to be rendered,” Dockendorf said. “I also want to thank (new Activities Director) Logan Midthun for his role in advocating for this amendment.”
   The trap shooting picture issue behind them, the board launched into a large agenda Thursday.
   They approved a new four-year transportation contract with Visions, a second year with their food vendor, Chartwells, and heard dynamic presentations by middle and high school staffers and students about their new Lead the Way classes, which start with robotics in the niddle school and graduate to science, construction and mathematics-combined classes in the high school.    They also met in closed session following their meeting to deal with various union negotiations.
   They also met with BLHS Staffer Loren Holthaus and Dockendorf to begin formulating plans for recogntiion of BLHS graduates in an annual Hall of Fame, to be announced in conjunction with commencement.
   Supt. Steve Westerberg also announced a guest speaker for the upcoming 100th Year Commencement, she being Sarah Noble, 1993 BLHS graduate and since college, engaged in the NASA program.
   Coverage of those activities will be in next week’s Tribune.
   

Saturday from 11-1 at Lions Park, the Big Lake and Becker group Beyond the Yellow Ribbon held a fun, free community event to support local Military heroes and their families from both Big Lake and Becker.         
    125 people attended, including 65 children. The weather was beautiful for folks who enjoyed a demonstration from Vision Tae Kwando. There was a Reptile Sideshow and clowns Kora Parker and Dallas Odell entertained the children with neat tricks and balloon animals. The Big Lake Ambassadors did face painting during the event. “They were fantastic” said George Quinn, a member of the Big Lake Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. Big Lake and Becker police were also there in force, including Bruno, the new Big Lake police K9. There were plenty of hot dogs and dozens of deserts available for event goers to enjoy. The children were the center of the appreciation event and six of those lucky kids won bikes which were donated by T.J Potter Trucking of Becker. A handmade quilt was also donated for a drawing and children were treated to dozens of prizes and giveaways including candy, coloring books, Matchbox cars and more.
  It was beautiful on Saturday as Big Lake and Becker groups Beyond the Yellow Ribbons held their Military Children appreciation Day at Lions Park.
 

On Saturday evening, the Big Lake Lions held their annual fish fry from 4:30 until 7:30 at Big Lake Lions Park. Total count was very low this year with 138 adults and kids coming out to enjoy the delicious fish, compared to nearly 400 that came last year.
    The weather was so nice that it surely played a role in attendance, as well as the MN Wild hockey play-off game and other activities going on in town.
    Don Orrock, chairmen of the event, said a large group of Lion club members were there getting things ready for most of the afternoon to make sure the equipment and facility were ready to use, due to other use of the facility that was going on until 1 pm.
    Members of the Lions Club did all the work frying the fish, preparing the coleslaw, making the beans and everything else that went in to preparing for the fish fry.  “It is a true club event where we do all the work,” said Lions President Deb Johnson.
    Eighty pounds of fish was fried at the event. The Big Lake Ambassadors were there and served all of the food as well as Cub Scouts Pack 93 helping to clear tables and doing trash.  “They do an amazing job,” said Johnson.
    The Big Lake Lioness was selling pies for dessert which is always a hit! All of the money raised from the fish fry goes back to the community for things such as Christmas gift baskets and aid for disaster victims as well as other needs in the community.
    Deb and Scott Johnson as well as Samantha Vanstvenwyk welcomed guest and collected money for the fish fry.
 Big Lake Ambassadors Salene Krueger, Jade Frage and Natalie Seyko along with candidate Amber Moore served all of the food at the event.
    Kathy Peterson, Ginny Martinson, Carol Thompson and Dee Leslie did a wonderful job with a wide variety of pies for purchase.
    Sally, Sheila and Jerry Berthieume really enjoyed the fish! This was Sally’s first year coming to the event and says she is defiantly coming back next year.

 
    In a joint effort between the Clearwater Area Historical Society and the Young at Heart group, photographer and storyteller Doug Ohman presented an entertaining program on old barns during the monthly Young at Heart meeting last week.
    Doug Ohman is a photographer who specializes in historic structures and community landmarks. His work is featured in the Minnesota Byways book series and has also been featured in the Smithsonian Institute’s exhibit “Barn Again! Celebrate an American Icon.”
    “I’m a photographer and I’m also a storyteller,” said Ohman. “A photo is important because it tells a story, so when I’m driving around rural Minnesota roads I’m looking for an image, but I’m also looking for a story.”
    “Today we’re going to tell a story. A story about the barns of Minnesota.”
Ohman told the audience that of the 22 programs he gives, barns are the most popular because they’re disappearing and people understand they’re the backbone of America.
    “Barns tell a historic story of our country,” he said. “If you study barns you can tell what kind of agriculture was happening at the time the barns were built.”
    Ohman began his presentation with a photograph of a threshing barn, one of the oldest kinds of barns. He said wheat was the biggest Minnesota crop in 1869; 80% of tillable land was planted with it.
    Threshing barns had diamond shape openings at the top that were called ‘owl holes,’ which were designed so owls could fly in and catch rodents.
    “Farmers didn’t do anything by accident,” said Ohman. “Everything had a purpose on a farm.”
    Inside the threshing barns farmers would thresh wheat by hand, beating the grain with long sticks called flails. The kernels would fall to the floor, be bagged up and brought to a mill. In the 1880s there were over 1,000 gristmills operating in the state.
    By the late 1890s farming began to change dramatically, and wheat was replaced with corn, oats and alfalfa. Farmers started getting dairy cows, and barns began to have lower levels and different shapes, with the hip roof barn becoming popular.
    Barns began to incorporate windows for natural light and a hayloft, or haymow, to store food for the winter. Copulas were added for ventilation, and lighting rods were placed on roofs.
Ohman shared a photo of a 1903 Sears and Roebuck mail order barn, the only one he’s found in Minnesota. The barn was purchased for $606 and came in a kit from Chicago. It took 10 wagonloads to haul all the pieces.
    He also showed a photo of an 1875 Northern Pacific Railroad barn. The railroad ran the stagecoach at the time, and the barn was for the horses.
    Ohman next shared photos of round barns, which were designed for dairy cows and were a fad built between 1900 and 1925. For a while Minnesota boasted over 250 of them, today there are only around 45 left.
    “Farmers are usually too practical to follow fads,” he said. “But they did with round barns.”
    He said round barns were efficient, with many having silos in the center, but they had one major problem. It was a challenge to get enough workable light.
    By 1930 gothic type barns began to be built, which were the biggest barns on the landscape going forward.
    Ohman also spoke briefly about silos, which were as big a part of farms as barns. He told the audience wooden silos were rare and there aren’t many left. Most were made of concrete block.
    Windmills were also important to farms, in 1990 there were 77 windmill manufacturers in the United States. 80% of them were Aermotor windmills from Chicago.
    Ohman talked about ‘swayback syndrome’ on barns, which happens when the roof starts sagging and eventually comes down. He told the group over 100 barns over the age of 100 are lost each year in Minnesota.
    Ohman ended his presentation with the story of his favorite barn photo, which isn’t of a barn. It’s of the hands of a 102 year-old farmer.
    “A barn is about people,” said Ohman. “The story of America’s farmers. Men and women who dedicated themselves, who understand the value of hard work. Thank a farmer; they’re the backbone of America. When you see an old barn don’t feel sad. Say ‘well done,’ you’ve done your job. Barns should make you smile.”
    “If you remember one thing today, let it be this,” he added. “The value of life is to pass on stories to future generations. Your life will only be remembered if you tell more. I want you to tell stories to your kids and grandkids. They’ll thank you someday.”

I watched one of my favorite movies last week - Goodfellas.  It’s about the everyday activities of an organized mob “family.”
    It’s based on the non-fiction book, Wiseguy, by Nicholas Pileggi. The film was nominated for six academy awards, with Joe Pesci winning the Oscar for best supporting actor.
    All the main characters are Italian, which is understandable given the subject matter.
    Being from the east coast, I’m familiar with the Italian culture, and one of the things that stands out in the film is the use of nicknames.
    In our old neighborhood, which was known as the Italian Village, there plenty of guys named Pete, Mike, Paulie, Richie, Joey, Tony, Jimmy and Frankie. To keep things straight, we had to use nicknames, or else no one would know who we were talking about.
    Early in the Goodfellas story, the main character Henry Hill introduces some of the family: Fat Andy, Freddy No-nose, Pete the Killer, Mickey Eyes and Jimmy Two-Times.
    Some of the nicknames  were based on physical characteristics, like the Freddy No-nose and Fat Andy characters. Others were named because of what they did, like Pete the Killer.
    Lots of guys in our old neighborhood had nicknames. There was Frankie Dirt, which I think had something to do with hygiene.
    There was Stosh, a guy who we played playground basketball with. He was older than the rest of us, and I was told he was once a high school basketball star. He usually had a bottle of liquor in his pocket. At first I thought his nickname was a play on the word “Scotch.” But I found out he had a long Polish name no one could pronounce.
    Another Polish guy on our block was called “Yuyu,” which I think was a European pronunciation of Joey. His brothers were Tommy and Paulie. They had no nicknames.
    There was a Hispanic guy in the neighborhood people called “Junie,” which was short for Junior. I never did find out his real name, or who “Senior” was.
    I went to grammar school with Gonzalo Ortiz. Everyone called him “Gonz.”
    We called Mario Benitez “Gomer” after the character Gomer Pyle because he was into military stuff.
    I played on a hockey team with a few players who had nicknames.
    “Gerbs” was our goalie. His real name was Mike Gerbino, but we already two other Mikes on the team. Mike Donofrio we called “Frio,” and Mike Colasurdo we just called Mike.
    When I started working for a shipping company after high school, lots of the guys had nicknames.
    There was “Mac,” “Tiny,” “Shorty,” “Heavy”  and “Doc.”
    I know “Mac” was short for McKenzie. “Tiny” was a huge guy. “Heavy” was a big guy. “Shorty” was a small guy. I know “Doc” wasn’t a doctor, but I don’t know where his nickname came from.
    I was the only Ken in the neighborhood, in school and at work, so I never had a nickname that stuck. A few people who didn’t know me called me “Whitey,” which would be politically incorrect today, especially in the diverse neighborhood where I grew up.
    But I knew it wasn’t because of the color of my skin. When I was younger, my hair was almost white.
    Then there was they guy on our block known as “Tank.” He was about 250 pounds, never smiled and everyone stayed away from him.
    I never asked him his real name.
  

    The Big Lake Veteran’s Memorial dedication was held Saturday, in spite of the cold and rainy weather.  Many people came to pay their respects in honor or those who fought for freedom.  Special guest, Gold Star Mother Stella Huso was honored in remembrance of her son, Army Special Forces Wayde Huso, who died serving in Vietnam in 1969. Chris Geisler made sure her father George Stonehouse,  a WWII veteran, attended. He was thanked by many for his service in the military.  The dedication began with a medley by the various branches of service, a flag presentation and a performance by the Big Lake High School Chamber Singers. There was a presentation of colors by the Big Lake American Legion Post 147 Honor Guard,  followed by the national anthem -  performed by the chamber singers.                 

  George Quinn, co-chairman of Big Lake Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, gave a greeting and welcomed folks to the dedication ceremony. Pastor Martin Mabley from Lord of Glory Lutheran Church, said a prayer and blessing for the memorial.  Thank You Soldiers was sung by the chamber singers before the main speakers took the podium. .  Mayor Raeanne Danielowski thanked the community and all those who have worked hard to make the memorial happen, which has been in the works for three years. She honored those who have served,  and gave so much for our freedom.  
  “Freedom isn’t free” she said. Danielowski read a letter from State Senator Mary Kiffmeyer, who unfortunately was unable to attend.                  

  General Lang gave a speech, then presented the ceremonial flag to Gold Star Mother Stella Huso.  Big Lake Boy Scouts Troop 93 and Big Lake Girl Scouts Troop 298 and 596 helped in the floral presentation.        Soon after the floral presentation ended, the traffic noise seemed to disappear and all that could be heard was the sound of “Taps” and the rain pouring down, echoing. Big Lake American Legion Post 147 Honor Guard presented the 21-gun salute.  George Quinn gave his closing remarks and thanked Big Lake’s Public Works Director Mike Goebel for all of his dedication and hard work helping with the Veterans Memorial. Following the dedication,  folks were welcomed to warm up and dry off at the 3rd Rail where beverages and snacks were provided. The dedication of the Big Lake Veterans Memorial was a huge success, thanks to those who helped with the dedication and donations to fund the memorial.
 

   The 45th Annual Big Lake Spud Fest Softball Tournament gets underway Friday evening, and if priors years are any indication, it should be a fun event.  As of Friday, dozens of  teams had registered to play in what has become one of the biggest attractions at Spud Fest. Depending on the number of teams that register, there will be five different brackets of play: the Men’s  Open Division, Men’s D/E Bracket, the Hometown Upper Division and Lower Division and the Co-ed Division.
   Cash prizes will be awarded to first through third places in each division. The D/E and Open Division winners will receive $1,500 (based on 16 teams) and six teams in the two Hometown Divisions are eligible for prizes from $50 to $300.  The tournament is also a qualifier for the ASA National Tournament for the D/E Division, with one berth for the top E team.
   Each year the tournament draws hundreds of spectators and players from all across the state. And lots of local athletes play for the Hometown Division teams. The action begins Friday evening at 5 p.m. with the Big Lake Police Dept. taking on the Big Lake Fire Dept. in the Guns ‘n Hoses Game, followed by games in the Hometown Division. The tournament picks up again 8 a.m. Saturday and Sunday until champions in each division are decided.
  Registration for the tournament is open until Tuesday. The cost is $175 per team. To register online, check the Spud Fest website, www.biglakespudfest.com.
For more information, contact Jon Youngs at 763-482-2646 or by e-mail at jonyoungs@yahoo.com.
 

      Sarah Noble, 1993 BLHS graduate and NASA scientist, wasn’t shy in her opening comments at the school’s 100th commencement program Friday. “I was not in the top 10% of my class, just missed it,” she said. She was 8th of 79 graduates. But she’s been getting “good grades” since turning her tassle 24 years ago.   Sarah went on to graduate with honors with a masters degree and a PhD from Brown University, and has since worked several positions in NASA’s headquarters in Washington, DC.
   Her job? She’s a program scientist in the planetary science division of the Science Mission Directorate. Currently she’s working on a mission to explore girant metal asteroids. “It’s a pretty awesome job,” she told the packed house Friday.  And from her unique experiences leading to and being with NASA, Sarah has gained some insights on life - and she shared it with the 242 graduates.
  Suggestions, if you will.
   1. Find your tribe. What matters is your connection to people.
   2. Plans are important, but don’t hold on to them too tightly.
   3. Learn about the things that fascinate you . . . it will bring you joy.
   4. Want the payoff? Put in the effort. There are no shortcuts to places that are worth going.
   5. Don’t let someone else’ expectations dictate your path.
   6. Cultivate relationships. Network. Mentors are not optional.
   She talked about traveling the river of life.  “As long as you’re wearing a lifejacket and have a good grip on your paddle, the exact path doesn’t really matter that much. The important thing is to enjoy the ride.”

  The evening’s presentations were begun with talks by Laurin Ebert and Justina Zou. “While we may not alwas acknowledge it, the truth is that we would not be where we are today and poised to take the next step in our lives without all the assistance we have received,” said Laurin. So, she recognized them Friday.  Justina made some suggestions during her talk.
   Try different things, she said. “You’ll meet new, fascinating people and discover more about ‘real life’,” she said. “And chances are you might discover a passion. You will never know if you don’t go. You’ll never shine if you don’t glow.”
From The State Senate
   Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer of Big Lake secured Minnesota State Senate recognition in its recent session of the 100th graduation of BLHS, with a commencement resolution, read to the crowd Friday.
Scholarship Winners
   A highlight of commencement is the naming of scholarship winners, sponsored by a number of local businesses and organizations.
   Scholarship sponsors and winners are as follows: Sand Prairie Dental, Karla Wesley; Connexus Energy, Kelsey Breitkreutz, Alana Dickson, Hailey Alt and Aleesha Moss; Big Lake KC’s, Jessalyn Roussin, Rachel Adams, Riley Bergstrom, Sarah Blume, Paige Domyahn, Caitlin Eisenschenk, Cody Haumschild, Alexander Heltemes, Kelly Jochum, Hanna Kalthoff, Lindsay Maruska, Aleesha Moss, Emma Nebben, Hannah Schoening, Kayla Wesley;
   Harlan, Muriel & Tom Wilts Memorial, Rachel Adams, Heath Foster, JD Huberty, Caitlyn Shaw; Big Lake Baseball Association, Tanner Teige; Christie’s Memorial Scholarship, Alexis Walsh;
   Big Lake Legion, Sarah Blume, Heath Foster, Cody Haumschild, Caitlyn Shawn, Alexis Walsh; Big Lake Legion Auxiliary, Riley Bergstrom, Miriah Bridgeman, Paige Domyahn, Caitlin Eisenschenk and Cecila Thao;
   KleinBank, Caitlyn Shaw; Big Lake Education Minnesota, Trevor Turner and Kaitlyn Hughes; Monticello Masonic Lodge, Cody Haumschild; Chartwells, Rachel Adams, Karleigh Johnson; Big Lake Ambassadors, Allison Bahe, Kayle Robertson, Caitlyn Shawn, Natalie Seyko;
   Big Lake Lions & Spud Fest, Rachel Adams, Paige Domyahn, Laurin Ebert, Heath Foster, Cody Haumschild, Karleigh Johnson, Lindsay Maruska, Kayla Robertson, Jessalyn Roussin, Caitlyn Shaw;
   Big Lake Lioness, Caitlin Eisenschenk, Caitlyn Shaw; River Wood Bank, Hannah Schoening; Big Lake Veterinary Hospital, Jessalyn Roussin; CentraCare Health-Monticello, Kayla Wesley; TIES-Sherburne County, Paige Donyahn, Michael Leeseberg, Mackenzie Millan, Jessalyn Roussin; BLBYA, Emma Denzen, Ewald Peterson, Tanner Teige, Paige Donyahn, Kelly Jochum, Rachel Adams; Other, Connor Welle and Justina Zou.
   

     Eagle Lake Road will have its new coat of blacktop, striping and be ready to carry traffic in time for Spud Fest, City Engineer Layne Otteson told city officials at their regular meeting Tuesday.
 He said sidewalk and trail work continue, and a final coat of blacktop will be done in the coming days. Accesses to neighbors’ driveways are being completed and retaining walls adjacent to sidewalks are      nearing their finish. He said some Eagle Lake Road mailboxes will have to be switched from the east to the west side of the roadway to accommodate an existing fiberoptic conduit. “It’s a reconstruction issue,” he said. “We will have mailboxes on both sides of the road.” A final completion date for all the work will be mid-July, he said. There have been issues with motorists traveling around barricades on the road, coming into contact with workers, Police Chief Joel Scharf reported. “People shouldn’t be in a construction zone,” he said. “When it’s open, the barricades will be down.” (Eagle Lake Road residents are the only motorists who should travel the street, so they can access their homes.)
    Otteson said his new intern, Bryce Heller, a student at the University of Minnesota, has been on the job, helping as an inspection assistant. Meanwhile, his staff has begun planning for the first of a 10-year streets renovation program, the first leg of which will be set for 2018. Public meetings on those affected streets will be set for this fall. Tuesday’s meeting consisted of a number of department head reports. Scharf reported Big Lake City continues to rank as among the safest cities, given their low occurance of violent crimes. Their daily call rate continues to escalate, however. With 34 calls daily. A few years ago, they answered or instigated 2,585 calls; they are now up to 5,194 calls on an annual basis. Chief Scharf concluded with a fun note - another challenge to the Big Lake Fire Dept. to have their best hitting shoes on come 5 p.m., the Friday of Spud Fest.
  That’s when the police will again take on the firefighters in their annual “Guns and Hoses” softball game at the softball complex. “The BLPD will smoke the fire department,” he challenged.  Ken Halvorson of the BLFD reminded him who won last year’s first matchup. “We’re planning on beating the cops again in our Spud Fest game,” he said.  “But I caught your popup,” Scharf mused.
 Farmers Market
    Hanna Klimmek, community development director, gave good grades their first Farmers Market at Lakeside Park last week. She counted 208 cars into the market that night, whereas 175 cars were tops for all of 2016. There were 14 vendors, and four more will come when produce is ready. She reported receiving over $7,000 in cash donations from firms and businesses to help with the Farmers Market. They include SHIP, $1,000; Minnesota Limited, $2,000; Spud Fest, $2,000; CentraCare-Monticello, $500.
 The city’s new comprehensive plan committee met June 5, discussing land use, parks and trails and natural resources. They will continue to regularly meet. So far this year, 38 single family home construction permits have been let; LGI has four homes under construction in Sanford Select Acres and another 17 are planned for Northland Park. Casey’s General Store and LISI Medical commercial projects are underway.
    In 2017, there have been 244 total permits aned 550 inspections.
Public Works
    Public Works Director Mike Goebel reported a number of ECFE and other classes, including paddle board instruction, going on at Lakeside Park and other parks in the city. Residents can research those case on the city website. He also gave a shout-out to Theresa Spike and Jane Ramunno for their volunteer time with gardens around the city.  He also noted receipt of a $3,500 grant to fund a seasonal worker by the Central Minnesota Jobs Service.

Big Lake City will be holding an information session on a proposed one-hauler refuse-recycling pickup system at City Hall June 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. City Administrator Clay Wilfahrt reported to the city council Tuesday he has contacted local haulers and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (PCA) to form a panel to present information and handle questions from the public.   “We’re trying to stay objective on this,” he said. But he concluded his remarks by saying what the people want will be granted. Three residents showed up for open forum to share their views on the regulated refuse program Tuesday - all three spoke against it.  Paul Seefeldt said a number of issues, like heavy weight to roads, are a non-factor. “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it,” he contended. A second resident, Dan Larson, Ormsbee Avenue, said he was pro-choice for garbage hauling. A third resident, J. Brian Calva, Turnberry Trail, said he wanted to choose his handler. “We want to be loyal to them,” he said.
Variance Approved
    The council, acting on a recommendation from the planning commission, approved a variance to (Councilman) Mike Wallen to construct a screened connection from an existing garage to his house at 828 Powell Street. Council action was 4-0, with Wallen abstaining. Wallen’s buildings sit on a  near-three-quarter-acre parcel, so there are no coverage issues. A sidelot five-foot setback variance was granted.
    With the project finished, his garage will actually be larger than his home, at 1,824 square feet to 1,260 for his house.
In Other Action
    In other action, the council:
    * Gave a vote of support to Aeon, manager of 2,702 living units in the Twin Cities, to purchase a 6.14-acre parcel owned by First National Bank of Elk River, for construction of Big Lake Station Apartments, which would come in one to four-bedroom apartments. The 50-60-unit building would have units available to low income;
    * Accepted the resignation of Sam Johnson from the BLPD, effective May 25. Officer Jarid Schmidt of Lonsdale was subsequently hired to assume his job;
    * Accepted the hiring of Emily Gruber as part-time liquor store clerk effective June 13.
 

Options break ground       for expansion
By Maggie Newman
Staff Writer
    In October of 2006 Options moved into their new building, serving about 160 people and housing 15 vehicles. They were thrilled with all of the space and had plans to expand in the future. However, Federal and State initiatives changed their focus to providing employment and enrichment activities in the community. With that comes an increased need for transporting people throughout the day,  so Options has become a busy transportation hub in addition to their role as a work setting.            Now they are providing services for just over 250 people and have 26 vehicles. Options also utilized two TriCAP buses each day to help transport people to and from work. They have 64 employees as well as numerous visitors throughout the day so traffic and parking have become an increasingly difficult problem. There is not sufficient parking for everyone.  It also presents a real danger to the individuals they serve, especially at the end of the day when all of their route buses prepare to             Options will be building a 7,936 square foot garage with surface parking on the west side of the current building that will be connected with a sidewalk. This will allow them to reconfigure parking, limit traffic where people are walking and house vehicles that have not been able to fit in the current garages.            Options groundbreaking ceremony was held on Tuesday and while visitors from the Big Lake Chamber came in the building,  consumers McKenna and Caroline welcomed them to the celebration.                  Brenda Geldert, Options executive director, welcomed consumers and chamber members to the groundbreaking event and talked about how much the expansion means to them.             Next,  consumer Patti Brenner stood and said a few words about how much she appreciates being able to get out of the house and come to work. Patti stated that she is proud to go to work each day because she feels useful and that without Options she doesn’t know where she would be in her life.                 The time was ready and the golden shovels were brought out. Consumers even had a chance to help break ground! After they were finished it was time for the Big Lake Chamber members to break ground as well. Ken Geroux Construction Corporation will be providing the services and hopes to be finished by the end of summer.    

  The Big Lake Ambassador Organization helps to provide outstanding high school girls with the opportunity to win a scholarship, encourages personal development and the best part, being able to represent the Big Lake Community.  Each year at Spud Fest during the coronation event, four girls are chosen to represent Big Lake at various communities in the surrounding areas, joining in their parades and local celebrations. The girls do a large amount of community service in Big Lake, spending numerus hours helping at events such as, the Knights of Columbus breakfast, helping the Knights of Columbus at the American Red Cross Blood Drive, face painting at music in the park, the Lion’s fish fry and pancake breakfast, face painting at Coborn’s and the farmers market, bingo at the nursing home, helping during Spud Fest.  And the list goes on.                

  The Big Lake Ambassadors are well known as a part of the Big Lake community and all of their hard work is very much appreciated. The Big Lake Ambassador Coronation with Junior Ambassador Pageant will be held at the Big Lake High School Saturday during Spud Fest and will take place from 1 until 2:30 p.m.. The current Royalty will hold a coronation to pass on the title as Big Lake Ambassadors. The girls chosen to represent Big Lake are awarded a scholarship after completing the reign as Big Lake Royalty.  The Big Lake Ambassador program is funded by the efforts of the girls, who raise money through car washes, spaghetti dinner and other events. The 2016 - 2017 Big Lake Senior Ambassadors are:  Emily Langager, Salene Krueger, Jade Frage and Natalie Seyko. The 2016 - 2017 Big Lake Junior Ambassadors:  Allie Cross and Calissa.     Senior candidates running for Big Lake Ambassador: Amber Moore sponsor Knights of Columbus, Evi Wandersee sponsor Big Lake Fire Dept.   Junior candidates are: Emily Jo Edmund, sponsor Big Lake Fire Dept; Bianca Royce,  sponsor McPete’s Sports Bar; Britta White, sponsor Dan's of Big Lake; Tatum White, sponsor Tiremaxx Service Center.                     Ambassadors and candidates are selling buttons for Spud Fest for $1 each. Before the coronation event-goers are asked to bring an item for the food shelf to contribute to the candidate of their choice. Candidates can win prizes for the most food raised, the most buttons sold and the best essay written.

  The powder puff red hatters joined together at Russel’s on the Lake Thursday for their first annual prom celebration. The group is made up of 17 members from Big Lake and surrounding communities. The ladies enjoy getting together a few times a month for socialization and fun activities.   The Queen Mom Sharron Saxton put together the prom and 10 out of the 17 members were able to make it. Sharron invited the ladies to get dressed up in a a fancy dress and that they would all have a date waiting for them when they arrived. Each of them had an envelope at their set and inside the envelope was a paper man, their dates. Sharron said they had a great time with their dates because they could switch them at any time.  Instead of corsages all the ladies received a white rose; they had a wonderful meal and enjoyed each other’s company for the afternoon.  Sharron said “the group loves getting together just to have fun and love getting together at Russles because they are so wonderful.” If readers are interested in joining the powder puff red hat group or want more information, call Sharron at 763-732-8519.

 This year will mark four and a half decades of the Big Lake town celebration “Spudfest”. For 45 years this community event has been bringing family and friends together for four days of fun and fabulous events and activities.  The festival will begin Thursday with Spud Family Night at the Big Lake Public Library from 3:30 until 5:30. Come and compete in a good old-fashioned cake walk, listen to the RSVP Readers Theatre and sing and dance along with the Flemming Fold in Concert.
Carnival
    The carnival will be kicking off Thursday at 6pm. Pre-sale wristbands can be purchased at Coborn’s and KleinBank for $20. Wristbands purchased at the carnival will cost $25. Get the mega pass and ride the entire weekend for $50,  which is good all weekend for all hours during carnival times and must be purchased in advance.  Carnival hours are: Thursday from 6pm until 10pm including wristbands, Friday 3pm until close with wristbands from 6pm until 10pm, Saturday noon to close, with wristbands from noon to 5pm and Sunday noon until 5pm, with wristbands from noon to 4pm.
    Advanced ticket sales end on Thursday at 3pm. However, if attending the Spudfest family night at the Big Lake Library Thursday between 3:30 and 5:30,  they can still be purchased at the advanced price and will be the last chance to get them at these prices!
Entertainment
    There will be a lot of entertainment taking place over the four-day festival,  beginning Thursday at 7pm with open mic night, which is for kids 17 and under. They will be able to show off their talents whatever they may be and have a lot of fun while doing it!  Back by popular demand, the 3rd Lair Skateboard and Bike Expo. Bring the bike or board and ride on over to participate on the very fun makeshift skate park Friday and Saturday from 2 until 8pm. The weekend’s softball tournament will begin  Friday at 5pm with the Big Lake Police Department taking on their rival, the Big Lake Fire Department. 2 Mile Final will be on the main stage Friday being at 8pm and fireworks will take place at dusk.  Saturday will be packed full of activities and entertainment starting at 8am with the softball tournaments continuing and the Spud Run Riders breakfast and rally at Tootsies Tavern.
   The current Big Lake Ambassador will be ending their reign as they will start a new journey in life. The coronation with junior Ambassador Pageant will be held at the Big Lake High School starting at 1pm.         Dance Caravan will be performing on the main stage Saturday beginning at 12:30 and Dazzling Dave the Yoyo Master will have two shows the first start at 2pm and the second at 5pm. Live music will be performed by Skitzo Fonik on the mail stage beginning at 8pm.  Sunday at Spudfest beginning at 11am Smitty’s Amateur Fiddler competition will take place and live entertainment provided by Jazmin and the Gents on the main stage afterwards. The Big Lake PTSO will be sponsoring the kids pedal pull starting at 3pm with registration beginning at 2:30.
BINGO and Buttons
    Hours the BINGO tent will be open are Friday from 6 to 10pm with blackout starting at 9:30, Saturday from 1 until 10 pm with blackout beginning at 9:30 and on Sunday from 1 to 5pm with blackout starting at 4:30. Spudfest buttons are being sold by the Big Lake Ambassador Candidates for only $1.  Buy and wear a button to show your support for the Big Lake Spudfest.
    If you have your button on during Spudfest weekend and are playing bingo, you could win a prize just for wearing it!  Buttons will also be sold at the bingo tent during the week-end.
Big Lake Parade
    There will be lots to see and plenty of candy to collect during Saturday’s parade. The parade will begin at 11 with line up starting at 9 a.m. The route will be the same as years past, down Eagle Lake Road from Park Avenue,  turning onto Minnesota Ave. and ending on Minnesota Ave in front of the Independence Elementary School. There will be judging for parade contestants and the top three entries will win a prize, so don’t forget to sign up to participate. Back by popular demand is the Benson marching band, the St. Cloud Drumline and of course the Shriners!
Food and beverage
    Friday from 4pm to 10pm the Big Lake Knights of Columbus will be serving a delicious pork dinner and other concessions at a very reasonable price. Don’t cook at home.  Bring the entire family to eat without having to break the bank. The Knights of Columbus will also be
selling concessions on Saturday from noon until 9pm in the main food tent. Sunday from 8:30 until noon the Big Lake Lions will cook up a yummy potato pancake breakfast. The cost is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors, kids ages five through 12 is $6 and kids five and under are free! So come out and enjoy potato pancakes, sausage and scrambled egg as well as juice, milk or coffee.   The beer tent will be open Friday from 6pm until 11:30pm, Saturday from 12:30 until 11:30pm and Sunday from noon until 5pm. Everyone will be carded so be sure to bring an ID. And of course there will be mini doughnuts, ice cream and all kinds of carnival foods!
The Medallion has yet to be found
    Every year for Spudfest there is a medallion hidden and it has not yet been found. It is tricky as you might have to use your fifth sense to seek it out. The medallion has been hidden on public land somewhere in Big Lake.  The six- inch diameter medallion will be in plain sight,  so no digging is necessary. The prize for finding the medallion is $150 with a Spudfest button. However if you find the medallion and have not purchased a button you would receive $50.
    The clues can be found every Saturday in the West Sherburne Tribune.          

   Clue #1- The medallion is hidden for the Spudfest season, get out and hunt, you now have a reason. Look high and low to spot the prize, no trespassing necessary, just use your eyes.
   Clue # 2 - Get out and start your exploration,
Do not give in to your frustration. Come play with us, search all around,
I am hidden and ready to be found.
Spudfest Lakes Run
    The Spudfest Lake Run will take place Friday June 23 at 6:30 pm. For over 20 years the Spudfest Lakes Run has participated in the Spudfest events. The run will begin and end at Lakeside Park and is known for its scenic 8k course known regionally as the fastest and the flattest 8k. This run is professionally chip-timed and will be held rain or shine. There are two water stops on the course and refreshments at finish line. The Spud Run is professionally organized and managed and trophies will be given to top three male and female finishers. Registration begins at 5:30 pm and T-shirts provided upon paid online registration. For more information contact Jean Hagberg at jjjschagberg@gmail.com or visit the website www.spudfest.com
BIG LAKE SPUDFEST WANTS YOU!
    The 2017 Big Lake Spudfest will be here before you know it and are still in need of volunteers!  Big Lake Spudfest is the largest community event they hold each year and it cannot be successful without the help of volunteers like you. For a full list of events scheduled or to sign up to volunteer go to the Spudfest Website at www.spudfest.com.

For the second straight year, the Spud Fest Lakes Run takes place on Friday at Lakeshore Drive near Riverside Park in Big Lake.
    The event was moved last year - both location and starting time. For years, the 8k run/walk took place on a Sunday morning, with the start and finish in front of Independence Elementary School on Minnesota Street. Coordinator Jean Hagberg said there was a lot of feedback about changing the venue because of the difficulty of attending the event early Sunday morning. Plus, some people were interested in participating in later-evening activities Friday and Saturday.  As it turned out, changing the time and place didn’t have any negative impact on the race. More than 100 runners took part (107), which was up from 102 the year before.  The times weren’t that different either. Running into a strong headwind, Joe Mahoney won the race in 28:45.33. He was the winner a year earlier in 28:00.14.
  Former Hornet cross-country runner and distance runner Andrew Crocker   was the first Big Laker across the finish line in fourth in 33:07.71. The top finisher for the women was Big Lake’s Emily Ralph in 35:25.55.  Registration for Friday’s he race will start at 5:30 p.m. and the race starts at 6:30 p.m., with the first mile going north along Lakeshore Drive, then to Hiawatha Ave. before cutting onto the paved trail around McDowall Lake, back to Hiawatha, onto Hill Street, Lake Street and circling Big Lake back to the park. The race is chip-timed and certified. There will be two water stops, plus refreshments at the finish line.
    Parking is available in the Riverside Parking lot. Prizes are given to the top three male and female finishers. Medals are awarded to the top three in each category for women and men: under 20; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 and over. Register online at www.zapvent.com. by Thursday, June 22 ($30) or on-site prior to the race ($35).
   T-shirts will be provided upon paid registration, but not guaranteed after Tuesday.