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Schoening, Carlson and Beckers receive top honors at Fine Arts Banquet

June 3, 2016, 7:07 am
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Contributing Writer
Aleah Stenberg

Senior Sean Thompson receives his awards from Ryan Purdy for his involvement in the one-act play this year. Besides lettering and receiving a Spotlight on Scholarship Award, Thompson was named Mississippi 8 All Conference Technician. He worked behind the scenes in the lighting booth to make this year's one-act, "Nora's Lost", look seamless, and manipulated several different lighting systems when the play traveled to different schools. (Photo by Aleah Stenberg)
By Aleah Stenberg
Contributing Writer
The fine arts banquet May 25 honored the Big Lake High School students who have excelled in fine arts this school year. Whether through their excellence in art, yearbook, Poetry Out Loud, band, choir, or one-act play, these students have graced Big Lake with their artistic talents. 
Art Awards
Claudia Forsberg started off the evening by sharing two quotes: "I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart," by Vincent van Gogh, and "I found I could say things with colors and shapes that I couldn't say any other way - things I had no words for," by Georgia O'Keeffe. 
"These quotes remind me of the power of art," remarked Forsberg, who has been an art teacher at the elementary, middle, and high school levels to many of the students. 
"I have watched them grow through the years, and I am so proud of them. I hope and I wish for every art student  here, that you will take what you learned and push yourselves a little further by making art happen outside the classroom. Picking up a drawing tool, paintbrush, or a lump of clay and creating will further your skills in art."
Among all the art students honored, two were given special art awards. The first award went to senior Anthony Aanerud, who was recognized for his focus, superb imagination, and unique artistic traits. Aanerud specializes in cartoons, anime characters, and Photoshop work. He has been accepted into the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD). 
The second award went to senior Taylor Squires. Forsberg attested that Squires is a hardworking, mature, creative, and focused individual in the classroom whose self-discipline and motivation are reflected by her incredible artistic creations. Squires provided the cover art for the Fine Art Banquet's program this year, and will also be attending MCAD in the fall. 
Poetry Out Loud
Next, English teacher Susan Hanson presented awards to the finalists of the Poetry Out Loud contest. Honorable mentions went to sophomore Alexander Hugh Prom, junior Hannah Schoening, and senior Shanna Pirness. The BLHS first place winner was sophomore Jessica Stenberg who was also a state finalist at the 2016 Poetry Out Loud contest.
"As all the winners on stage know, poetry is much more than recitation. It is time spent searching for just the right inflection, accent, and nuances of meaning. It is the inspection of each word, sometimes each syllable, turning them over and over in the mind, turning them over and over in the mouth for just the right expression," Hanson explained. "Big Lake has talent beyond measure, and I think you're looking at the best."
Big Lake has won the regional competition and has had someone place at the state level virtually every year they have participated.
In a brief history lesson, Hanson conveyed that poetry recitation was part of the ancient Olympic games. She recounted the Greek historian Plutarch's words: "Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks. Science is for those who learn, poetry is for those who know."
Yearbook
Being a part of the yearbook staff requires extreme dedication to the program for the entire school year. The Big Lake Yearbook team is advised by Briana Sutherland and Jolie Barthel, who help the students create the yearbook using an online program. The students design pages, take and customize photos, cover sports and events, interview, edit, write stories and captions, and collaborate with each other both inside and outside of school to make each year's book unique and memorable. 
"Our students are charged with documenting this year's memories so they can look back at them for many years to come," said Sutherland. 
Two students lettered in yearbook this year for going above and beyond what was required of them: senior Bonnie Doucette, editor, and junior Hannah Schoening. 
Instrumental Awards
"Music can change the world because it can change people," - Bono, from the band U2. Band Director Heidi Olson opened her segment with this Bono quote before inviting all the students being recognized for band achievements to the stage. 
Though the stage was rather crowded, the band students took turns stepping forward as the following groups were recognized: Jazz Band , Mississippi 8 Honor Band, Honor Bands at various colleges, Solo and Ensemble, and Perfect Pep Band Attendance. 
Each student came forward to receive their awards packet as Ms. Olson read off their achievements. In addition to those already listed, students could receive Spotlight on Scholarship Awards; pins for their first, second, or third year lettering; or be recognized as one of the 27 four-year band seniors. 
"This school is you," affirmed Olson, "You guys make it what it is by your involvement and your excellence. That's what tonight is all about: you guys, what you have accomplished, and how well you represent us here at Big Lake High School."
Olson then presented the John Phillips Sousa Award to senior Cole Carlson. The Sousa Award is considered the pinnacle of achievement in high school band and it recognizes outstanding dedication and superior musicianship. BLHS honors the most deserving band member each year with this award. 
Carlson's qualities of musicianship, leadership, dependability, loyalty, and cooperation, earned him this honor. 
Choral Awards
Choir Director Mary Ebanks called the honored choir members to the stage and invited the announced groups of letter winners, Mississippi 8 Honor Choir, Solo and Ensemble, section leaders, and seniors to step forward and be recognized.
"All of the students standing here have demonstrated passion, leadership, and a desire to learn during the school year. It truly is a privilege to work with all of them," said Ebanks before announcing their individual achievements and handing out their packets. 
Ebanks then announced the winner of the National School Choral Award, senior Abby Beckers, who was not in attendance to receive the award. She will be presented with a personal desk trophy, certificate, and pin at a later date, and her name and academic year will be engraved into the school plaque. 
The National School Choral Award has been awarded to deserving BLHS choir men and women as far back as 1979. It recognizes a student who has demonstrated merit, ability, and achievement for the success of the choir program in their school.
One-Act Play Awards
Director Ryan Purdy then took the podium to recognize the participants in the one-act play. Purdy, who has directed the one-act for the past two years, handed out awards to his charges while detailing their specific roles and growth this year. 
Awards included participation, lettering, Spotlight on Scholarship, Academic All Conference, and All Conference Cast and Crew.
This year's one-act play was Nora's Lost by Alan Haehnel, and students worked hard to put together a powerful and concise story about an elderly woman with Alzheimer's wandering through a swirling agglomeration of her memories as she ambles towards death. 
Competitive one-act plays have strict time limits for performance, set up, and tear down. The team performed four times at various schools as it traveled for competition. 
Although there was no official award presentation for the spring musical of The Little Mermaid, Principal Dockendorf had those present who were involved stand to be acknowledged. 
"Students, thanks for sharing your talents and abilities with us. That was a wonderful, wonderful performance," commented Dockendorf about the musical. 
Fine Arts Student of the Year
Grand Knight Dennis Nagorski of the Big Lake Knights of Columbus culminated the evening by announcing the Fine Arts Student of the Year. 
The Knights of Columbus choose the recipient based on their involvement in various fine arts opportunities. The winner this year was a section leader in choir, lettered in choir, participated in the Solo and Ensemble Competition, was a lettering yearbook staff member, received an honorable mention in Poetry Out Loud, and had roles in both the one-act play and the musical. 
The 2015-2016 Big Lake Fine Arts Student of the Year was junior Hannah Schoening. 
Big Lake High School would like to thank the Big Lake Knights of Columbus for their support in making Fine Arts Banquet possible. 
 
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WST
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School begins plans for use of $4M bond proceeds

June 3, 2016, 8:18 am
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Editor
Gary W. Meyer
 Last week’s $9 million bond safely tucked in the bank, the Big Lake Board of Education this week made plans to put some of the funds to use.
   They met in special session Tuesday to call for a $4 million bond sale this summer, which will lead to construction of some projects yet this fall.
   Most of their autumn-designated projects will be athletic in nature. They will install baseball lights on one field at Glenwood Avenue, add softball lights on their four-plex off Co. Rd. 43, and add softball and baseball scoreboards. They will also replace and expand interior and exterior security cameras in the schools.
   Winte3r 2016-17 projects will be to upgrade sound, lighting and audio visual in the high school auditorium and mechanical systems in each building.
   Most of the remaining projects from the successful $9 million bond referendum will be constructed during the following summer and fall.
   The district is opting to sell only $4 million in bonds this year. They have already sold $5.4 million in deferred maintenance projects this year.
   Keeping their bond sales at less than $10 million in a year will qualify the district for a better interest rate on the new package.
   The remaining $5 million in this bond package will be sold in January, Supt. Steve Westerberg reported.
   Discussion on the $1 million bond defeated in last week’s election - turning the BLHS football field into an antificial turf surface - is expected to be discussed at some future meeting.
   Whereas the $9 million bond was approved by voters by an 819-724 margin, the $1 million question lost by a 918-625 margin.
Lunch Prices Up
   The board at their regular meeting last Thursday approved a 10 cent per meal lunch price hike for all students in the coming school year.
   Elementary students will pay $2.70 per meal; middle and high school students, $2.80.
   The price increase was mandated by the federal government, which financially supports the program with free and reduced lunches to about 25% of Big Lake’s students, Westerberg said. It is not as a result of the district;s hiring an outside firm to do its hot lunch program, he said.
   He noted 37% of students statewide, access free and reduced lunches.
   Personnel Actions
   Four persons were hired to positions, and one resigned, as approved by the board.
   Hirees include Megan Jacob, high school teacher; Ryan Prom, head wrestling coach; Katie Thyompson, Independence assistant principal; and Theresa Walker, high school nutrition assistant. Resigning was Jennifer Besse, Kids Club program assistant.
Large Contributors
   The district acknowledged several organizations for large-sized donations to the district.
   They included the BL Knights of Columbus, $1826 to guy infant health trio for child decelopment class; County attorney and sheriff, $2000 for scholarships to seniors who participated in their program; Target Take Charge of Education, three funds, from $800 to $2000, for various field trip expenditures; BL Knights of Columbus, $2000 each to cover expenses from the academic awards and fine arts banquets.
In Other Action
   In other action, the board decided its own board room in Independence Elementary was the desired space for holding their meetings.
   They tried using the Big Lake City Council chambers for their April session, but found for several reasons, including overall roominess of their space, to be more-desired.
 
 
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County hears sex trafficking report

June 3, 2016, 8:42 am
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Staff Writer
Ken Francis

Victoria Powell Assistant County Attorney
“Every 30 seconds, another person becomes the victim of human trafficking.”
That’s the opening line of a Powerpoint presentation given by Assistant County Attorney Victoria Powell to Safe Schools Committees across Sherburne County this school year. 
Sex trafficking is a $32 billion business in the U.S. - more than Nike, Starbucks and Google combined. And the FBI has identified the Twin Cities as one of 13 U.S. cities with a high incidence rate of child prostitution.
“These issues go on all over Minnesota, including smaller counties,” says Powell. “We’re informing the public about what to look for - the warning signs.”
A study done more than five years ago showed 213 girls each month are sold for sex in Minnesota. And it’s not just in the Twin Cities.
In January, 2016, a Waseca man was arrested during an undercover operation for human trafficking.
Six men were arrested in Dakota County last September and charged with solicitation in an undercover sting operation.
A man in Washington County was arrested last year for soliciting prostitution. Police found a tarp lining his car trunk. 
In August, 2014 an undercover operation found 13 men accused of engaging in prostitution with minors. Officers posed as minors soliciting sex on Craigslist and Backpage. 
Seven more men were arrested in August and October that year in similar sting operations.
It’s an issue Sherburne County is trying to be proactive about. The presentation to Safe School Committees was the first step. Typically Safe Schools Committees consist of administrators, counselors, social workers law enforcement liaison officers and sometimes, church-based groups, mental health facilities and chemical dependence facilities.
 “We tried to reach out to the schools because often the school officials - the counselors, teachers and attendance office may be the first person or people to see those warning signs,” says Powell.
Health & Human Services is also a big part of the program. 
“Social worker Danette Bird is the go-to person who will reach out and meet with a child that we believe might be trafficked,” says Powell. “There might be one to several different meetings because sometimes they have to build that rapport so that child feels they can be open and honest about what happened.”
Law enforcement has also been trained to look specifically for signs of sex trafficking. 
“If a patrol officer at 2 a.m. pulls over a car in Sherburne County with maybe a juvenile female and two older males, they may ask some questions that may focus on whether they can identify if the child is being trafficked,” says Powell, “and not just focus on the DUI or traffic stop.”
The county has also set up a Safe Harbor group comprised of social workers, law enforcement and the county attorneys office  who continually meet to address the issue.
They have also created a group called Families First, involving HHS, the Central MN Sexual Assault Center, law enforcement, local communities of faith and other agencies that work with kids.
Powell says she will also be going to hotels and motels in the county to put up posters alerting employees to make a call if they suspect child trafficking is happening here.
“We don’t have a lot of hotels and motels in Sherburne County, but it’s about awareness,” says Powell. “If you see something, say something. It’s a full approach to trying to bring awareness in Sherburne County.”
Some of the warning signs a child may be involved in sex trafficking include bruises or cuts, truancy issues, falling grades, new piercings or tattoos, substance abuse, getting hair and nails done more frequently, getting unexplained gifts and having multiple cell phones.
Powell says she’s invited back to schools to talk with the faculty and is already setting up a Parent’s Night next fall.
“The plan is to come back and reach the next level and then we’ll talk to the kids about it,” she says.
For more information, call HHS at 763-765-4000.
 
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WST
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Second Medallion Clue!

June 3, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Submitted Article
The Spud Fest medallion hunt has started and the medallion has been hidden on public land somewhere in Big Lake. The six-inch in diameter medallion will be in plain sight. No digging is necessary.
The Big Lake Spud Fest medallion hunt is sponsored by Great River Spine and Sport.
Clues to the medallion’s whereabouts will be published in the paper each week and posted on the window of the Great River Spine and Sport office in Big Lake at 5 p.m. Fridays until the medallion is found.
The prize for finding the medallion is $150 with the purchase of a Spud Fest button or $50 without a button.
CLUE #1
The Spud Fesat medallion
is hiding once again.
Time to go hunting,
find it and win.
Read the clues each week
to find the treasure,
return to Great River
Spine and Sport to
accept your reward with
pleasure!
CLUE #2
Get out and start your investigation,
Do not give in to your
frustration.
Come play with us,
search high and low,
find it where the flowers grow.
 

 

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WST
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Summer Food Service Program begins June 13

June 9, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Submitted Article
Summer meals are available once again this summer to all kids age 18 and younger at no cost.  To eat, just show up. Youger children must me accompanied by an adult.
Any child aged 18 or younger is welcome to eat breakfast and lunch for free at the Independence Elementary School lunch room on Minnesota Avenue, beginning June 13  through Aug. 11, Monday through Thursday, except no meal service for July 4.
Meals are served between 7:30 - 8:45 a.m. for breakfast; and between 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for lunch.
Summer Food Service Program will be adding an activity every Wednesday during the lunch service:
Saron Lutheran has teamed up with the Great River Regional Library and the Friends of the Library to engage and build relationships with children and their families in our community that participate in the Summer Food Service Program.  
Together, they will be providing physical activities as well as crafts and story time during the lunch time of the Summer Food Service Program.  This is an excellent opportunity to build relationships within the community and  increase our sense of community. 
Each Wednesday of the week will have a different theme that will be carried throughout all that is going on and is geared towards many different age levels. We are all extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity and are anxiously anticipating this time together. 
The Summer Food Service Program lunch menus are available on the school district website and on the West Sherburne Tribune website.
For questions on the Summer Food Service Program contact 763-262-7232 or 763-262-7242.
Hope to see you at the Summer Food Service Program.
Tags: 
Friends
Fun and Food!
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WST
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Library has a busy year in 2015

June 9, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Editor
Gary W. Meyer

GRRL Big Lake Branch Services Coordinator Terry Pfleghaar, with her 2015 annual library report to the council.
The Big Lake branch of the Great River Regional Library had a busy year, Terry Pfleghaar, library services coordinator, reported to the Big Lake City Council Wednesday.
Her 2015 annual report indicated a 4.6% circulation increase, whereas totals for other GRRL branches haven’t been as brisk.
The library houses 24,632 items, total value $435,073. They include books, music DCs, magazines, newspapers, DVDs and audiobooks.
The library signed up 321 new borrowers in 2015, about 28 per month. In Sherburne County, which includes branches in Elk River and Becker, the system has 20,485 registered borrowers, nearly 20% of all GRRL patrons for its 33 branches.
Circulation Overdrive reported 193,303 electronic checkouts fro 10,159 uinique borrowers region wide.
The library had 8,788 requests for information in 2015.
The local branch has six free public access computers, two card cataloqgue computers na dofur staff computers. The public access computers provide internet and the Microsoft office suite and are used for several hours daily, Pfleghaar reported. Printing costs 10 cents a page.
And Wi-FGi is available and offered for free during open and closed hours.
Pfleghaar’s staff inclues four regular and one substitute staff. They include Jenni Dickinson, Mollee Schoenfelder, Dee Jakubawski, Mary Cornelius and Mary Keifenheim.
The Big Lake branch had 21 volunteers who put in nearly 500 hours of help in 2015. Eleven volunteers came from the RSVP program.
Programs and events are in large supply at the Big Lake branch. Their adult-teen winter reading program attracted 166 people; the children and teen summer reading program had 401 children, up from 321 the previous year.
Gingerbread house making attracts a large number of kids during the holiday season and the Legacy programing hosted six events during 2015.
Their 2016 summer kids reading program will be starting next week.
Friends of the Library remains one of their biggest local volunteer programs.
Pfleghaar reminds residents to get a card and use the card - that activity is what builds central office respect for the Big Lake branch.
“And in 2016, we’re targeting the teens,” she said. “Thanks for the building. It’s beautiful and we love it.”
Mayor Raeanne Danielowski expressed her appreciation to Pfleghaar for the continued success.
“You’ve done a great job, stepping in after Nancy (Lee) retired.”
   Sen. Kiffmeyer Visits
Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer of Big Lake, “fresh” off another legislative session, met with the council for 15 minutes Wednesday, outlining several things that went well during the session.
Broadband coverage has received legislative support and “Sherburne County is a great place to start.”
She noted not only industrial parks should be getting attention, but residents homes, too. The legislature’s supplemtnal spending bill signed into law provices that funding.
There is becoming more equity for funding for schools like Big Lake, Elk River and STMA, like their Metro counterparts, and that is beginning to show, she said.
She said her people are working on teacher licensure reform, and a veterans pension bill provides it will not be taxed in this state, as it is not in others.
“The public infrastructure and bonding bill?” she said. “It will have to come back another time.”
She noted the bonding bill was set for ratification late that last night of the session before a DFL amendment sidelined it.
 
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WST
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City Hall to close for Xcel outage

June 9, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Editor
Gary W. Meyer
Expecting an Xcel Energy outage Tuesday, the Big Lake City Council this week opted to close City Hall from 8 a.m. to as late as 2 p.m.
The council took the action at their Wednesday meeting, also noting Lake Center Liquors, the police station to include the library and public works. (The liquor store is scheduled to re-open at noon.)
Should inclement weather occur Tuesday, the outage will be moved to Thursday, same hours.
The outage is necessary as Xcel, in its terms, “enhances reliability to its customers and provides capacity to accommodate growth…”
Xcel customers are asked to turn off computers and reset alarms systems and other equipment that may be sensitive to an electrical outage once power is restored. For more informat, call their hotline, 1-800-895-4999.
The outage affects only Xcel Energy customers in the community, that area roughly south of Glenwood Avenue. Connexus customers will not be affected by the outage.
2 Ordinances Approved
The council adopted amendments to two ordinances at its meeting.
They approved an amendment to their fence requirements for corner lots, allowing setbacks reduced to five feet, elimination of landscaping, allowing any residential style fences and increasing it to a six-foot maximum.
The second ordinance amendment came at the request of Police Chief Joel Scharf, and that forbids parking of semi trailer trucks and other large trucks for other than loading and unloading on streets.
The vehicles, he says, have been damaging streets when parked for periods of time.
“The streets are not designed to bear that weight,” he said.
2 Donations
The council received a $2,500 donation from CenterPoint Energy, to be used to purchase two new portable radios for emergency situations. They also received a $50 check from James and Dora Erikson as a thank you for their responding to a security concern at their home. That money will also go towards radio purchases.
Department Reports
The council concluded their 90-minute meeting with reports from the fire department, police department, engineering and public works.
Cpt. Nick Feister of the BLFD reported only nine calls for May, much the result of rainy weather. So far in June, there have only been two calls.
He reminded residents grilling with charcoal to douse the hot embers with water to ensure they do not ignite in a trash can or other receptacle. Also, potting soil is flammable, he reported.
Chief Scharf reported 975 calls in May, an average of 31 calls per day.
Body cameras are being used by all his officers, and images are taken, by policy, in cases of traffic and pedestrian stops, use of force, evidence, times of conflict or in times when officer deems it appropriate.
He reported his officers can now do breath testing at the BLPD, rather than going to the sheriff’s department, and that Centra Care EMS service is now available at their new site in Big Lake.
Engineer Jared Voge of Bolten & Menk stated punch lists are dwindling for Northern Star Apts., by the rail station, and he expects an application for their second phase to come soon.
Kwik Trip work should be finished for an opening around July 4 and startup of the Eagle Lake Road reconstruct and trail should be in late July.
Also, the first 10 homes in Norland Park 2nd Addition have had permits pulled for them.
Mike Goebel of the public works department said the 24-hole disc golf course at River Oaks Park is up and running. 
Their wellhead water protection plan is at the state and a 10-year water supply plan, required for all cities over 1,000 residents, is undersay.
Finally, letters have been mailed to 40 property owners who haven’t mowed their grass; 26 have been turned over to the city’s lawn vendor, who will do the work. Grass over one foot in heighth gets their attention.
 
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WST
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Luxury Apartments to call home!

June 10, 2016, 5:32 am
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Staff Writer
Maggie Newman

PAT BRIGGS in front of his new units on Martin Avenue.
The Briggs Companies was established in 1998 by Pat Briggs when he was just 18 years old, and has grown from being single family home rentals to rental communities that people are proud to call home!     
  Briggs purchased the property for the new Town Square Luxury Apartments many years ago and had planned on building there until the market crashed in 2007, which put his plans on hold. Eventually things got better and he decided it was time to build in 2015.  The Big Lake Town Square Luxury Apartments opened in April and his clients are enjoying a quality living environment and beautifully designed luxurious apartment. At Briggs Properties their primary goal is to always exceed expectations and take input from existing clients then modify to meet the needs of future clients.It took nine months to get the project done. Landscape rocks have been put in and screens for the porches were put in this past week.  
  Briggs designed the building with many great features such as keyless entry, an elevator, individual unit washer/dryer hook-up or rental, stainless steel appliances, extra storage in some units, screened in balcony, built in counter top table, handicap shower and bath in all units, large garages, very large community room and the entire building is fully equipped with video surveillance to keep residents safe. 
   He is providing one bedroom units (with dens), two bedroom units (with dens) and studio units. Space for the units range from 700 to 800 feet (one bedrooms) and from 825 to 1150 square feet (for the two bedrooms).At the Town Square Luxury Apartments, residents are within walking distance to Coborns, Caribou Coffee and pizza.They strive to establish a strong rapport with each resident so that they will enjoy their home for many years.  All of Briggs properties are smoke-free and all applicants must have a criminal background check. 
They also help their residents once they decide to become homeowners by providing full service mortgage and real estate services.The Briggs Companies built and owns Ashbury Residential Suites, which is located just across from Independence Elementary and the middle school. Ashbury Residential Suites is a 23-unit apartment building and also focuses on being a safe and secure place to live.  Future projects for The Briggs Companies is an upscale structure called “The Point” in Elk River. It is 20 acres on the former Saxon Chevrolet dealership and Lodge America overlooking the Mississippi River. 
  Briggs also just purchased a property on Hennepin Avenue in Big Lake and is hoping to build a four-plex for seniors to be open next spring. 
 
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WST
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Oak Savanna Learning Center Grand Opening

June 10, 2016, 7:57 am
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Maggie Newman

Pictured are Gretchen Fischer and daughter Maddison, Sue Hix, Franklin Blake, Marie Day, Michele Bachmann, Charlie Blair, Tom Melius, Steve Carl, Brad Johnson, Griffin Peck and NWR mascot Puddles.
The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge and the Friends of Sherburne NWR held the grand opening for the new Oak Savanna Learning Center Tuesday. Nearly 130 people were there to help celebrate the new facility which will be used for educational purpose as well as accommodating school field trips, interpretive programs, and will be available as a meeting space for conservation groups. It is also the gateway to 30,700 acres of National Wildlife.Before the ribbon cutting there were a few speakers, of which Gretchen Fischer, principal of Zimmerman Elementary School, spoke. Fischer is very excited for the learning center to be open so students from all over can learn firsthand the importance of nature.  Sue Hix chair of the Be Wild campaign, Former Congress woman Michele Bachmann, Midwest Chief of Refuges Charlie Blair and Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius also spoke at the event which was followed by the ribbon cutting.After the ribbon was cut guest were able to tour the building and check out the nature store. They were also welcome to go on the new floating dock, look at animal hides while learning what animal they belonged to and were welcomed to enjoy cookies, cupcakes, coffee and juice.   The grand opening is very special not only for the public but for everyone involved as  Refuge staff, members of the Friends, community volunteers, and government leaders have spent over decade to make the project happen.  Friends of Sherburne raised almost $250,000 and had more than 250 donors. The money was used to purchase tables, chairs, A/V equipment, Nature store furnishings, landscape, sidewalks, curb/gutter, patio sitting wall and wetland education stations. The building has two classrooms, indoor and outdoor bathrooms.
 
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WST
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Sand Dunes residents gear for 'official talks'

June 10, 2016, 8:26 am
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Editor
Gary W. Meyer

BOB QUADY (at right) and fellow members of the Sand Dunes State Forest action committee Donna and Don Bouley and Ron and Judy Geurts, were among a dozen residents turning out for the information meeting. (Photo by Gary W. Meyer)
Things have gone comparatively quiet - at least on the surface - in the past couple of months at Sand Dunes State Forest.
   It’s not to say things haven’t been happening.
   Getting caught up on all the deliberations and negotiations with the Minnesota DNR occupied the attention of Sand Dunes forest supporters for an hour with Rep. Jim Newberger at the Orrock Town Hall.
   Newberger updated the Sand Dunes folk on their agreement this spring with the DNR to invoke a one-year moratorium on clear cut harvesting of trees.
   That means the DNR will not issue contracts for tree harvesting for one year. Certain cuttings will be allowed and pre-existing contracts (dating back two years) will also be allowed.
   (Logging companies have a three-year time frame from signing a contract to conclude their harvesting of trees.)
   At the DNR’s meeting with forest supporters at BLHS two months ago, the state group acknowledged the moratorium, and as importantly, suggested their two groups meet regularly to talk about the various issues related to SDSF.
   As well as logging, they included cleanup of logged areas, hunting regulations, burning of wasteland which can release poison ivy fumes into the air and  recreation within the forest.
   Forrest Boe, a high official with the DNR who suggested the monthly meetings, will be stepping down from his job, throwing the work to less-known persons. That has caused some concern with the SDSF residents.
   They spoke for a few minutes of their first monthly meeting with DNR officials at a home in the Sand Dunes; it went well, was cordial and some things were better understood.
   But there remains a mystery as to who will set agendas for future monthly sessions and how influential they will be in discussing issues with the DNR.
   The Sand Dunes group is hoping positive input to the DNR from these monthly sessions will form the basis for a revised DNR policy for managing the forest.
   “We’re concerned for being just in an advisory role,” said Bob Quady, former DNR forestry manager who now sits with the SDSF property owners.
   “How influential is this group going to be?
   “At the (first monthly) DNR meeting, they (the DNR) asked for only eight persons (from the SDSF homeowners) to serve.”
   “I don’t have a high level of trust,” said Newberger. 
“If they want our trust, they will have to have some give and take.”
   The political wrangling seen by the Sand Dunes residents is only one tussel the DNR folks continue to go through.
   Their department is comprised of several interests and not all of them are committed to saving trees at Sand Dunes.
   “In the DNR, you have their forestry group, which is quite friendly. Then you have the ecological group, which has different priorities. They (the ecology group) are pushing for clear cutting of 40% of Orrock - for pollinators. They’re bugs.”
   But Donna Bouley of the Sand Dunes support group suggested the locals keep the trust with the DNR.
   “They did say they wanted to work with us,” she said.
   Between 200 and 300 acres of the Sand Dunes were cut in the past logging season; another 200 to 300 acres were to have been cut had the moratorium not been put into place.
   One issue the Sand Dunes residents might not be able to win is that of tree harvesting in the campgrounds, which has been recognized as the second most-used state forest campground in the state, reported Judy Geurts of the Sand Dunes group.
    DNR officials have said they wish to cut out the pines in the campground; leaving oak and others.
   Somehow, Judy doesn’t think oaks and other types of trees will fit in a campground as well as pines.
   “Anything I can do . . . “ said Newberger as the meeting came to a close.
   “Keep hammering away,” responded Brian Shaw, a member of the Orrock Township Board.
   They are pointing to a Mon., June 27 date for their first official monthly meeting with the DNR in Big Lake.
   The DNR this week announced the meeting would be at the BLHS cafeteria from 6 to 9 p.m. Monthly meetings, they reported, will continue through November or December.
 
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2016 Baccalaureate Service at Saron Lutheran Church

June 10, 2016, 8:48 am
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John Thomalla with Doug Watercott of Mary of the Visitation.
Twenty-Five graduating high school seniors, their parents, family and friends gathered at Saron Lutheran Church June 8 for the 2016 Baccalaureate Service.  This primarily student-led service alternated between prayer, scripture, humorous anecdotes, music, inspirational reflections and words of wisdom.  Music was provided by the Saron Praise Band as well as members of the Big Lake High School Choirs, under the direction of Mary Ebanks.  
After a scripture reading by Morgan Ireland, Logan Karls referred to the struggles and triumphs of faith for people mentioned in the Bible – from Moses to Mary – and how they were given the gifts they needed to change the world.  The seniors, too, have been given what they need to succeed and change the world.  
Challenges shape us but with the Lord by our side we cannot be shaken.  After scripture read by Sydney Nygaard, Sophie Roberts spoke of how, through her own personal struggles after being diagnosed with a brain tumor and epilepsy, she learned to accept and forgive others who did not understand and, most importantly, to rely on God.  “In a desperate state, I sank to my knees and simply asked God for help,” she shared.  “…if you lean on God, I promise you He will help….  His love for us is so vast we can’t even begin to fathom it.”
Loren Holthaus provided a teacher’s perspective.  His relationship with this class was unique in that he met many of them in eighth grade but the next year he was moved to the high school and as the students progressed through the years, the grade level he taught seemed to follow this 2016 graduating class.  He spoke of how the nature of friendships also change as they typically go from quantity to quality, from having many friends to having few but deeper relationships.  He shared with them that the one true friend who will always love you and never leave you no matter what is Jesus.  And, as their relationship as teacher and student ends, he would consider it an honor if they considered him a friend.
The service wrapped up with thoughts, thank yous, prayers and blessings from Olivia Johnson, Kole Kolasa, Alex Blake, Hunter Snyder, Sean and his dad Kevin Thompson and John Thomalla with Doug Watercott of Mary of the Visitation.  
All present were impressed by the faith expressed by these graduating seniors.
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Read for the Win Summer Reading Program begins June 13

June 10, 2016, 9:31 am
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Maggie Newman
The Big Lake Great River Regional Library will be kicking off their summer reading program June 13 through Sat. Aug. 13. 
Children and teens are welcome to participate with the chance to win some great prizes.  Sign up for the library's Summer Reading Program “Read for the Win” and have fun all summer long.
Two programs are offered, both with the theme, “Read For The Win.”
The children’s “Read For The Win” program is for ages 0-12.
The teen “Read For The Win” program is for grades 6 through 12.
The children’s program has two age groups: 0 to 3 and age 3 to sixth grade. Families may choose to enroll children ages 3 to 5 in either group.
Children who are 12 may choose to enroll in the children’s program or the teen program.
Children may enroll in only one program. 
The “Read For The Win” theme was chosen to complement the Olympic competitions taking place this summer. 
The library has partnered with Dairy Queen and Friends of the Library as they have donated certificates and prizes to encourage kids of all ages to participate. Simply keep track of reading times to qualify for prizes and drawings. Teens must read for four hours to receive a Dairy Queen certificate, and kids ages 3 to 12 must read for five hours to receive a Dairy Queen certificate. Parents with infants or toddlers are encouraged to read or sing to their child. Reading material can be books of any kind, magazines, and read along audio. Once the first goal is reached they will receive a certificate and get register for prizes which will be given out after the summer reading program end. 
Then start over, keeping track of reading time to receive another Dairy Queen certificate. They can do this three times during the summer reading program. Stop by the Big Lake library to get signed up today!
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The hunt is still on to find the medallion

June 10, 2016, 8:00 pm
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The search for the Spud Fest Medallion is still going. Clues are posted in the window of Great River Spine and Sport every Friday evening at 5 p.m. and appear in the paper each week.
The medallion is hidden in plain site on public property somewhere in Big Lake or Big Lake Township. Whoever finds the medallion wins $150 if they have already purchased a Spud Fest button for $2. If they find the medallion but don’t have a button, the prize drops to $50.
Buttons being sold by Big Lake Ambassadors and candidates. 
CLUE #1
The Spud Fest medallion
is hiding once again.
Time to go hunting,
find it and win.
Read the clues each week
to find the treasure,
return to Great River
Spine and Sport to
accept your reward with
pleasure!
CLUE #2
Get out and start your investigation,
Do not give in to your
frustration.
Come play with us,
search high and low,
find it where the flowers grow.
CLUE #3
While hanging out in the sunshine,
Many activities this place does provide.
Keep an eye out for a sign,
Around which the 
medallion does hide.
 
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Many seniors received scholarships at graduation

June 10, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Office Manager
Gail Evans
The names of seniors graduating Big Lake High School who received scholarships was announced at Friday’s Commencement Ceremony.
Morgan Ireland and Brady Vogt was awarded the Sand Prairie Dental Scholarship by Dr. Roger Bromaghim.
Connexus Energy awarded scholarships to Abby Beckers, Adrianna Burrows, Sonja Gerdts and Dylan Lannes.
The Father Joseph Linn Council Big Lake Knights of Columbus,  gave scholarships to Jaidyn Anthoney, Kerregyn Atkinson, Teanna, Britton, Holly Cosgriff, Hannah Fussy, Kiona Harris, Kailyn Johnson, Logan Karls, Hailey Lahr, Justin Morrow, Kelsey Nelson, Sophie Roberts, John Thomalla, Sean Thompson and Caitlin Walser-Deuel.
Harlan and Muriel Wilts Memorial Scholarships went to Teanna Britton, Logan Karls and Kelsey Nelson.
The Michael G. Hayes Memorial was awarded to Sierra Kooistra.
The Big Lake American Legion gave scholarships to Morgan Ireland, Logan Karls, Elizabeth Thompson, Sean Thompson and Jake Wolbeck.
The Big Lake Legion Auxilliary presented scholarships to Shealyn Abbot, Hannah Fussy, John Rebrovich, Sophie Roberts and Caitlin Walser-Deuel.
KleinBank gave a scholarship to Jaidyn Anthoney.
Courtney Dinsmore and Samantha Moench won Big Lake Education Minnesota Scholarships.
Madison LaQua and Courtney Dinsmore were awarded Big Lake Youth Development/Youth Service scholarships.
The Monticello Masonic Lodge gave a scholarship to Olivia Johnson.
Isabella Rasmussen received a scholarship from American Red Cross. 
The Big Lake Lions and Big Lake Spud Fest donated scholarships to Shealyn Abbott, Jaidyn Anthoney, Mikayla Bridgeman, Katharine Denzen, Logan Karls, Samantha Moench, Sophie Roberts, Sean Thompson, Gavin Vu and Caitlin Walser-Deuel.
The Big Lake Lioness awarded scholarships to Kerregyn Atkinson and Jaidyn Anthoney.
RiverWood Bank awarded a scholarship to Brady Vogt.
Big Lake Veterinary Hospital awarded a scholarship to Madison LaQua.
Natalie Rannells is the recipient of CentraCare Health-Monticello Scholarship.
Sherburne County T.I.E.S. awarded scholarships to Alex Blake, Morgan Ireland, Jake Schwebke and Madison Wambach.
The Big Lake Youth Basketball Association (BLYBA) scholarships went to Ashley Brethorst, Kelsey Nelson, Brady Vogt and Jake Wolbeck.
Other local contributionwas awarded to Mallary Dick.
Thank you to all the local organizations, businesses and individuals who contributed to these scholarships for the graduating seniors. Your generous support is greatly appreciated.
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Friends, family shave heads in support of Julie Ruch

June 16, 2016, 4:37 pm
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Contributing Writer
Bill Morgan

JULIE RUCH (R) welcomed some friends and neighbors who brought flowers and cards for Julie’s haircut event last Sunday. (Photo by Bill Morgan).

 To battle the cancer disease once and win is monumental. To do it twice is stupendous and inspirational.

To face it a third time, well, it’s enough to crush one’s spirit.
But one Becker woman — who is now in the third phase of treating cancer — is not letting the recent setbacks take the smile off her face or defeat her positive attitude. 
She’s taking things head on. 
Julie Ann Javes Ruch, 54 years old and married to Ron Ruch, is a familiar face to many as she is a server at the ever-popular Russell’s By The Lake restaurant in Big Lake. She and Ron have three children, Laura (30), Emily (27), and Marshall (23).  
Sunday, the Ruch family held a “Team Julie” rally at their home along Rolling Ridge Rd. and invited friends, family and neighbors over for an opportunity to show solidarity with Julie by shaving their heads.
Julie is the proud grandmother of two grandsons with more on the way. 
Julie had surgery to remove the tumors in her body but the cells are showing that this second bout was a little more aggressive. The result is Julie needing a vigorous series of chemotherapy. The sessions have just recently started and the effect is Julie losing her hair and feeling extremely ill. 
But Sunday with her “Julie fans”, her wonderful smile and robust energy were front and center behind some dark sunglasses and a hat disguising her hairless skull.
With the recent chemo sessions, Julie is unable to work and loses her income while in the treatment phase. Family members have put together a GoFundMe page (gofundme.com/26xgyck) to support her during treatment and recovery. 
Julie is known amongst her friends, family and neighborhood as being a generous soul who thinks of others before herself. That’s part of the reason she became a server at Russell’s — to bring her twinkling smile and strength of character to her job where she uses her gifts to serve others.
“My sister and her husband Ron have supported my family along with the many friends I have in fundraising eight years ago for our service dog Barley,” said Julie’s sister Sally. “I can only hope that we can support her in this same way by reaching out to our family, friends and community and asking for donations to help my sister get through this difficult time.” 
Sally goes on to say all Julie worries about is getting to work because she has a wonderful work ethic.  
“Her place of employment couldn't be more supportive in this but being self employed and getting paid in gratuities isn't something she is compensated for,” said Sally. “My plight, my ask in this is that you would help in any small monetary way you can to allow for her to not worry about needing to work in the phase of her journey with breast cancer.”
The GoFundMe page has a goal of reaching $5,000 for Julie and her family and as of Wednesday of this week, the amount had risen to $1,155.
Nick Pittman of Rock Star Sports & Apparel printed and donated the shirts that said, Team Julie on the front and Shave Heads and Kick Cancer’s (image of a donkey) on the back.
 
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Big Lake graduates go around the world!

June 16, 2016, 4:58 pm
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The Big Lake All-Night Grad Party provides the graduating seniors with a safe, secure, and chemical-free environment in which graduating seniors create a final, magical night together in an once-in-a-lifetime setting. (Submitted photos.)
Not long after the High School’s graduation ceremony, the majority of graduates departed for a virtual trip of a lifetime. More than 75% of the graduating class traveled in luxury to the amazing Big Lake All-Night Grad Party, where they celebrated their years of hard work with an “Around the World” themed celebration that kept going until the sun came up the next morning. 
The Big Lake All-Night Grad Party provides the graduating seniors with a safe, secure, and chemical-free environment in which graduating seniors create a final, magical night together in an once-in-a-lifetime setting. As Abby Beckers said, “I wish I could relive the grad party over and over…unforgettable night with unforgettable friends.”
This year’s party began in the evening of Friday June 10th, and provided the students with a wide variety of activities, entertainment, prize giveaways, and opportunities to socialize until after 5 a.m. 
The seniors were wowed as they entered a middle school that had been transformed into a series of destination-themed decorations including an airport, France, Antarctica, Mexico, an African Safari, New York, Hollywood, and Hawaii, making the school itself unrecognizable. Accompanying the theme was a wide and vast palate of foods from around the world, where the graduates enjoyed Chinese, Italian, French, American, Mexican and Hawaiian themed food offerings. The seniors found plenty to keep them busy all night long, and ended the evening with a prize giveaway that left every student with lots of prizes to carry home and memories to last a lifetime. A number of students described the event as “the best night of my life.” As Hunter Snyder aptly put it, “without a doubt, that was the best way to finish high school.”
This party simply would not happen without the many parent volunteers who contribute hours and hours of time to make it all come together, and the committee would like to take this opportunity to extend a tremendous thank you to all of our volunteers for their extraordinary talent, time, and fundraising efforts. This party also would not be possible without the generous donations and support from our community, including some of our largest supporters: Big Lake School District, Klein Bank, H&G Marketing, Big Lake Spud Fest, Knights of Columbus, cMichaelStudio Photography, Zimmerman Fire Department, Monticello Lions, BNSF Railway, and Dairy Queen. The committee also would like to thank the Big Lake Police and the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office for donating their time and their talent again this year.
The Big Lake All-Night Grad Party is funded and supported 100% through the efforts of volunteers, donors within the community, and fundraising activities, which means that each year’s theme, staging, and event activities are determined by the funds raised and time committed by the committee for that year. The planning process is nearly a year-round event, with the kickoff for each year beginning shortly after the start of the school year. In addition to hosting a very successful party, this year’s committee was able to provide next year’s grad party with a very healthy startup fund, allowing next year’s graduating class the same opportunities to experience “the best grad party ever.” The committee is always looking for individuals willing to share their time and talents in a variety of areas, including decorating, fundraising, food preparation, and entertainment. Although countless hours of work go into the event, seeing the reactions of the graduating seniors – who are truly amazed by the event – makes it all worthwhile. 
Information about the party can be found at www.biglakegradparty.com and the Big Lake Grad Party Facebook page. The Planning Committee strongly encourages parents of juniors, sophomores and freshman to get involved in the planning process, so that the parents of graduating seniors can enjoy their children’s senior year events. If you are willing to help, please contact Chris Leeseberg at biglakegradparty@gmail.com. 
Many of the vendors who provide entertainment at the party repeatedly comment that, while they perform at many different school districts, the Big Lake Grad Party is far and away one of the most impressive events they have seen, and that it is a reflection of a great community coming together to create a great event. Thanks to everyone who helped to make this a great event!
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County approves lake improvement district at Palmer

June 16, 2016, 5:09 pm
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Staff Writer
Ken Francis
The Sherburne County Board established the first lake improvement district (LID) in the county with a unanimous 5-0 vote Tuesday.
The LID covers three lakes - Julia, Briggs and Rush Lakes in Palmer Twp., all part of the Briggs Lake chain.
Members of the Briggs Lake Chain Association (BLCA) had been working over the years to maintain lake water quality and prevent shoreline destruction on the lake chain. But lack of funds was making it difficult to keep up with the necessary work.
At a county board workshop in January, 2014, the BLCA first proposed forming the LID to help fund projects to stabilize the shoreline and improve water quality. A LID has the authority to raise funds, and can ask the county to assess properties for additional funds for specific improvements. 
At the time the BLCA wanted the LID to cover all four lakes in the chain - Julia, Briggs, Rush and Big Elk Lake and a total of 639 properties.
But a petition of residents in the chain fell short of the required number of votes for Big Elk Lake.
At a meeting in March 2015, Dan Merchant, Kenzie Phelps and Scott Ruiter of the BLCA proposed forming the LID for three lakes. But the county board directed them to get a new petition for a three-lake LID.
Last month (May 16), a public hearing was held at the Sherburne History Center to consider the LID. Under state statute, the board had 30 days to either approve or deny the request.  Tuesday, 29 days after the hearing, a petition to form the three-lake LID was presented to the board.
Without any debate, the board voted to approve the LID.
Assistant County Attorney Tim Sime said under the LID, specific projects can be funded, including but not limited to, developing a comprehensive plan to monitor and improve water quality, applying for federal and state funding to study and treat issues related to pollution, water levels and aquatic invasive species, and any other programs, plans or activities approved by the county board.
Sime also said funding for projects must first come from public donations or private grants. After seeking public and private donations, the LID can make a request to the county board for funding. The board can impose an assessment on the benefitting properties within the LID or impose service charges on the users in the LID.
The county board must also appoint a seven-member board of directors.
“You will appoint the initial board of directors,” said Sime. “After that, the board of directors will be elected at an annual meeting.”
The commissioners directed the members of the BLCA who were present at the meeting to create a list of recommendations for the board of directors. That list is expected to be available at Tuesday’s meeting.
Parking Restriction
The board passed a resolution prohibiting parking on Co. Rd. 5 in the City of Big Lake between Hwy. 10 and Park Ave.
Assistant Highway Engineer Dan Knapek said the county will be reconditioning that section with two through lanes and continuous left turn lanes this fall.
“We’ve never had parking restrictions on that road, but a requirement to receive state aid is a parking restriction on that segment,” he said.
The parking restriction will be enforced one the “No Parking” signs are up.
Co. Rd. 4 Bid
The board awarded the contract to reclaim and overlay Co. Rd. 4, road alignment and signal improvement from Hwy. 169 to the east county line in Zimmerman to Knife River Corp. at $3,542,070.64.
Other bidders included Hardrives ($3,544,725.38), Valley Paving Inc. ($3,824,923.28), Park Construction Company ($3,857,887.77) and Shafter Contracting Co. Inc. ($4,195,232.00).
The engineer’s estimate was $3.726 million.
Solar Farm
The board approved a request by SEV MN 1 LLC for a solar farm development on 50 acres near 92nd Street and Co. Rd. 8 in Clear Lake Twp. The land is owned by Barton Sand & Gravel Co./Tiller Corp.
Other Business
In other action the board:
* Approved the purchase of three commercial grade air conditioning units for three 800MHZ sub-sites at a cost of $66,000 plus a 5% contingency;
* Approved selling a county-owned parcel near  Co. Rd. 45 and Fifth Street NW near the public safety building in Zimmerman to the highest bidder, proposals to be submitted by Aug. 2;
* Approved a gambling application for Duelm Area Lions at Kinitski’s Grill  & Bar in Clear Lake for a Sept. 17 raffle;
* Approved a collective bargaining agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services Dispatcher Unit;
* Approved the transfer of $500 from the Sherburne County Attorney’s Office to the sheriff’s office to be used for the Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) program;
* Approved a joint powers agreement with MN Dept. of Corrections for prosecution services at the St. Cloud Correctional Facility.
 
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Then they turned their tassels

June 16, 2016, 5:32 pm
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Editor
Gary W. Meyer

BONNIE DOUCETTE, Gabriela Dillon, Courtney Dinsmore, Andrea Doty, Sierra Kooistra and Deanna Kopis.
Commencement programs served an excellent second purpose Friday.
Fans would do.
The sweltering heat in the BLHS gymnasium, generated from a 90-degree afternoon,  as a house full of parents, grandparents, friends and family convened to witness the graduation of 204 seniors.
But the uncomfortable conditions for 90 minutes gave way to the glee of a major advancement in life and their repurposing themselves for new experiences outside the high school walls.
Supt. Steve Westerberg, in his first year to witness a BLHS graduation, recognized the parents and grandparents of the graduates.
“If it weren’t for them, we wouldn’t be here to celebrate,” he said.
Boardmember Dan Nygaard stroked the crowd with a quip: “The hotter it is the shorter you want this program to be.” That drew an appreciative response.
But the messages of the evening came first, from two young ladies as representatives of the Class of 2016 - Katie Denzen and Olivia Johnson.
Katie, in her welcome address, suggested: “Tonight we get to look around this gym one last time at the people we have spent most of our lives with. Some of these people include teachers, parents and fellow classmates.
“Without any of them, none of us would be here tonight, so I think it is only proper that we thank them for helping each of our journeys become successful ones.”
Katie asked her classmates to remember their teachers, their parents, and to recognize themselves with thanks.
“We are all sitting here in our blue and gold in unity. We all made it here together, and that deserves the utmost gratitude… I hope no matter where each of you end up that you will be happy.”
Olivia, in her commencement speech, spoke of sitting with the band playing Pomp and Circumstance for the last three years, waiting for it to be her year. 
“And here we are,” she said. “But as much as I’ve looked forward to the day, I’ve always disliked endings… But endings are inevitable. Change is inevitable. 
“From here we will be moving on. . . For some this is very exciting and for others it is frightening, maybe even a little of both.”
She spoke to the tired old question asked so often, “‘What are you going to be’?”
She said it’s okay not to know, “because the real question  isn’t WHAT  but rather WHO you are going to be.
“Success isn’t just measured by what kind of job you have or how much money you make or WHAT you are, but it is also measured by WHO you are.
“Success also includes what kind of person you are. Do you have strong relationships with family or friends, do you have a generous spirit, are you hardworking and passionable about something, do you have a sense of commitment to your community?
“What values make you, ‘You’?”
BLHS Principal Bob Dockendorf recognized the top honor students, while Asst. Principal Angela Charboneau-Folch acknowledged the graduates going into military service. Military veterans from the audience were also asked to stand.
Dynamic music of the evening, as usual, was Pomp and Circumstance, the processional, played by the high school band and directed by Heidi Olson.
A special musical offering was by the high school choir, directed by Mary Ebanks, Born To Be Somebody. Worlds and music were by Diane Warren.
In mid-ceremony, Olson’s band produced a splendid rendition of Three Klezmer Miniatures. They concluded the evening with Fanfare and Recessional, as the graduates marched out, having turned their diplomas and turned their tassels.
The blue and gold tassels and mortarboards went flying into the air minutes later - and within minutes, the graduates were off to their all-night party, guests of another loving and ambitius group of parents.
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New at Spud Fest

June 16, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Staff Writer
Maggie Newman

THE GRANITE CITY CLOGGERS WILL be one of the new entertainment at Spud Fest this year. (Submitted photos.)
 The Big Lake Spud Fest committee is always looking for new and exciting events and activities to bring to the towns festival and celebration. 
If members of the community have an idea for something they would like to see at the Festival, they are encouraged to bring their idea  to the Spud Fest committee.  
The 3rd Lair will be in town at this year’s spud fest and local skateboarders are very enthused. The 3rd Lair is located in Golden Valley and is a rad indoor skateboarding and bike park. Thursday, the opening day of Spud Fest, the 3rd Lair will hold a skateboard and biking expo from 4 to 8 p.m. as well as Friday from 2 to 8 p.m. They will bring ramps and creating their very own skate park at Spud Fest. The Granite City Cloggers group from St. Cloud will be putting on a free show at the main stage Sunday from 11 am.  to 12 noon, and again following the fiddlers contest from 3  to 4 p.m.. Clogging has become very popular and the Granite City Cloggers are amazing! Be sure to stop by and check them out.
Saron Lutheran Church will not be holding a service at Spud Fest this year due to a time change by the Spud Fest Committee which would infringe on Sarons regular church service.
 
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Fun and Fabulous Activities happening at Big Lake’s Spud Fest!

June 16, 2016, 8:00 pm
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Staff Writer
Maggie Newman

THE PARADE WILL START at 11 a.m. 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 Avenue and ending on Minnesota Avenue in front of Independence Elementary School. (Archive photos.)
The 44th Big Lake Spud Fest celebration will kick off Thursday the 23rd at 4 p.m. with teen night. Bring the kids and enjoy free Watermelon from 6 p.m. to close, provided by Coborns of Big Lake. From 4 to 8 p.m. there will be a skateboarding and bike expo put on by The 3rd Lair. Don’t forget your skateboard or bike and try out their awesome skateboard park.From 6 to 8:30 p.m. the Visceral Band with local youth from Big Lake will be performing; including members Andrew Knudson, Mya Johnson, Preston Yanta and Eli Hanson.  Also there will be a spud derby hosted by the Big Lake Cub Scouts Troop 93 starting at 6 p.m. under the big tent. Bring the kids to carve a potato into a car and watch them race down the ramp!
Carnival
The carnival will be in action Thursday starting at 6 p.m. Pre-sale wristbands can be purchased at Coborns and KlienBank for $20, wristbands purchased at the carnival will cost $25. Or go with the mega pass and ride the whole weekend for $50. Hours the carnival will be running are: Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. including wristbands. Friday 3 to  close, with wristbands from 6 to 10 p.m.. Saturday 12 noon to close, with wristbands from 12 noon  to 5 p.m. Sunday 12 noon to 5 p.m. with wristbands from 12 noon to 4 p.m.
Entertainment
There will be plenty of entertainment at Spud Fest starting Thursday with the Visceral band playing from 6 to 8:30 p.m.. Friday, Bingo will start at 6 p.m. going until 10 p.m. with blackout bingo at 9:30 p.m.  Also, Friday there will be live music from Good For Gary on the main stage starting at 8 p.m.  Fireworks will begin at dusk outside the BLHS football field and are provided by Northern Lighters. Saturday will start off with the parade at 1l a.m. as well as the Dance Caravan (Tribal Belly Dance Performing Arts Company) from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The bingo tent is open from 1 to 10 p.m, with blackout starts at 9:30 p.m. Come cool off and get wet at the Big Lake Fire Dept., water ball competition starting at 1 p.m. 
The current Big Lake Ambassadors 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 2 p.m. Good luck girls!!Don’t miss out on the Karl Achilles Magic Show beginning at 2 p.m. and from 3  to 5 p.m. get a brain freeze at the ice cream cake eating contest. It will be held under the main tent and is sponsored by Dairy Queen. Saturday night’s entertainment will be provided by TWO MILE FINAL beginning at 8 p.m. and going to midnight. Sober cabs will be available so be sure to take advantage and be safe!
Sunday from 11 a.m. to noon the Granite City Cloggers will be performing under the main tent as well as Smitty's Amateur Fiddlers Contest starting at 12:30 p.m. The bingo tent will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. with blackout bingo at 4:30 p.m. Get the kids register for the Power Pedal Pull as registration will be held at 2:30 p.m. the event starting at 3 p.m. 
 Food and Beverage
It wouldn’t be Spud Fest without fabulous food! Friday the Knights of Columbus will have reasonably price pork dinners starting at 5 p.m. and going until 10 p.m. The Knights will also have burgers, French fries, baked potatoes and more!! Sunday come join the Big Lake Lions from 8:30 a.m. to noon as they will be hosting the potato pancake breakfast. Adults: $8, seniors: $7, kids ages five to 12: $6 and kids under five are free. The menu will include potato pancakes with applesauce, regular pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage and juice, milk and coffee. The beer garden will be open Friday from 6 to 11:30 p.m., last call is 11:30 p.m. Saturday 12:30  until 11:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Bring your I.D. as everyone will be carded.
       Big Lake Parade
So far this year there are 65 entries into the parade but as the Big week gets closer more business and groups will be turning in their entry form. Last year there were 90 entries in the Big Lake parade. The entire parade is recorded and commentary is added to be televised.  
The parade will start at 11 a.m. 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 Big Lake 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!Due to the amount of litter left behind after the parade the last couple of years and in an effort to reduce the amount of garbage the parade generates, distribution of flyers, posters, stickers, etc. is not permitted unless it is attached to an item in which it will not blow away and be left behind. 
The Big Lake Spud Fest Wants You! 
The 2016 Big Lake Spud Fest will be here before you know it and are still in need of volunteers!  Big Lake Spud Fest 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 www.spudfest.com 
 
Section: 
WST
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