Larry and Mary Halverson moved to Waseca just in time to watch the Bluejays go to the State basketball tourney back in the 70s. Fun time to come to our city, the love affair for sports started back in the Canby, Mn HS days and has continued.
Most people have seen Larry drive for Clemons Bus Lines: he is the guy who drives to the games/events and is always happy to see the kids and parents win or lose! Safety is important but to have a real fan drive and watch your kid perform is really the story with Larry! Not only a fan of the Bluejays, Larry is the main driver for many of the Shattuck hockey and soccer teams as well!
Clemons Coaches with Larry behind the wheel travel all over the country with the elite Shattuck programs, Larry the fan sees some pretty good hockey as well! The next time your son/daughter goes to an event, ask them if they had Larry as the driver, if they did they were safe and had a fan of kids in the drivers seat!
Thanks to Marla Rohl for recommending "The Shack <http://theshackbook.com/> " bought it, read it and handed it off to my wife in about 12 hours - great book, a moist eye or two in the process. Best book I have read in at least 10 years.
Went to Center for the American Experiment "WHAT WE’VE LEARNED ABOUT CUTTING BUDGETS <http://www.americanexperiment.org/events/2010/2010-03-02.php> " Featuring Tim Penny and Rudy Boschwitz. Tim's key statements were (paraphrasing here) "The legislative body will never approve a budget lower than what is offered by the Executive" and "Control the process and you can control the budget". Does the new Superintendent count as the equivalent as the executive in a School district? If so a key question in interviewing might be "are you fiscally conservative?". Rudy also stressed process when it comes to budget and wants a two year budget in Washington. Not to pat myself on the back too much but I offered the idea of a two year capital improvement budget for the city of Waseca and I feel we were much more effective. The event was interesting, I sat with Joe Repya who recently suspended his candidacy for Governor in the Independence Party - there seems to be a little infighting there. He is especially unhappy with Barkley courting the Tea-Party movement.
I hate to see Teresa Walters leave - she was a great Finance Director and helped the council stretch budgets more than seemed possible.
Now I get my weekend update from the Waseca County News and they tease that Crystal is a top contender for a position in Arizona? Say it ain't so Crystal!!!
I am working on an LGA piece that I hope will show the effects of LGA changes on total budgets and staffing levels.
Sport fans, we all know someone who sticks out as a FAN! Jim Goetz was at most basketball and baseball games I attended, he enjoyed watching the Bluejays! Vic Swensons, Gordy Larsons, Bob Kiselbachs, Don Wobshalls, and Gene Glynns: couples who attend together and seemed to be fixtures for years at Waseca sporting events!
My friend Dwain Nelson just passed away! Dwain and Marilyn raised 3 Bluejays: in-turn the grand-kids are Bluejays. The main event was baseball with wrestling a second choice: but soon softball, tennis, and basketball became must see on the social calender. County fairs with the lemonade stand fit in there someplace! Sports and family, work and family, leisure and family, Dwain and Marilyn always included family and friends in their activities. Dwain suffered the past few years, in case you did not know him, he was the guy in the wheel chair across the gym or field with family nearby watching the game. The Conway kids were blessed to have the Nelsons as friends and fans as well, thanks Dwain and Marilyn for treating my kids like family! Dwain will be put to rest his week, nice guys finish first!
Well fans, it is tournament time! Hockey, Raslin, Gymnastics,Swim/diving, and Basketball. This is what you practice for and work for, now it counts! The regular season is to prepare for the run to make the State tourney!
Remember when Janesville beat Waseca for the District Four Title? Yes, at one time there were sub-districts, districts, and regional tourneys! That was when there was one class in all sports and they eventually added the second class: and in some sports as many as 5 classes. The result to me is confusion! Once again we provide opportunity which in reality waters-down the success as we want everyone to win and be happy? I follow sports and I can't remember all the state participants from last year and I really can't remember the State champs either! Can you?
Remember tourney upsets? Sometimes teams with great record fall in the first contest! Sometimes the finals provide great drama with joy and sadness for others! Get out an enjoy a tourney contest, HS sports at its finest will be yours for the next couple weeks! Good Luck to the athletes and to the FANS!
I have written of political hypocrisy in the past. But it seems our elected leaders keep providing us with more examples. Here are a few of the most recent.
In Washington, a bi-partisan group of Senators proposed creating a commission tasked with crafting a deficit reduction plan. Yet, nine Republican legislators who co-authored this legislation ended up voting against it. It is hard to understand how someone could sponsor a bill – but then vote against it.
In Saint Paul, in bi-partisan fashion legislators passed a law to restructure the General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) program designed to cover the indigent. The initial vote was an overwhelming 125 to 9. Yet, after a gubernatorial veto, the override vote was 86 to 47 (three votes shy of the required two-thirds needed for an override). How could so many legislators switch their vote on this bill?
On ethics, hypocrisy is also evident. A few years ago, Democrats railed against the ethical transgressions of several Republican congressmen and derided what they termed to be a “culture of corruption” in Washington. On several occasions they called for unethical Republican legislators to step down from leadership positions. Now, as they are in control of Congress, Democrats are singing a different tune. Democrat Charlie Rangel of New York, the powerful chairman of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, has been found to have violated ethics rules by taking trips funded by private corporations. It also appears that he did not properly disclose all of his sources of income – as required by ethics rules- and that he failed to pay taxes on $125,000 of income from rental property. At the least, Rangel should be asked to step away from his chairmanship until these issues are resolved. But Democratic leaders are defending instead of denouncing Rangel. When it comes to ethics both parties express outrage only when the transgressor is from the other party. But when they have a miscreant in their own midst they seem to take the attitude that “he may be a crook – but at least he’s our crook.”
The Chinese New Year’s celebration started on Valentines Day this year. It’s the Year of the Tiger, still being celebrated. Were there Chinese immigrants in Waseca County’s history? We found one Chinese immigrant who had a laundry business in Janesville, and according to newspaper accounts, moved his business to Waseca in 1903 because of harassment by local boys.
In Waseca his laundry was located on South State Street just north of the old city hall where Quality Print is located today. He likely washed, starched and ironed most of Waseca’s businessmen’s white shirts of the time. Then he was drafted into the army to serve in World War I. On June 27, 1918, he was photographed with the other young men posed front and center against the south exterior of the Waseca County Courthouse. They left that day for training camp. He was a member of the 22nd Company 161st Depot Brigade, Camp Grant, IL.
His stint in the army lasted less than one year. Did he survive World War I? Yes, he did. He
came back to Waseca, but in 1920 he sold his laundry to Mr. Brownson of the Waseca Steam Laundry, and moved to Minneapolis.We recently found his name in the 1930 San Francisco census. This photograph is his service portrait from the World War I book in our Bailey-Lewer Research Library. To see other photographs, join WCHS online, and search “Yep Lun.”
I have been inspired to write you all once again! This morning we were finally allowed to run our half marathon! The Hesco Half Marathon started at eight this morning and it was a perfect day to run. Well for what we have here it was. I thought I would describe what it was like. First off it was put on our friends on the United Kingdom base next to our base. They raised money for two charities and raised almost $6,000! It was great to know that my small donation went to a greater cause!
I do not claim to be a “runner” but do claim to love running. It was something that took me some time to like and eventually love. I have also found that I am a runner that needs to constantly train. I am not a natural and I still have a long way to go. So on to my story for the day.
We started our run as I said at eight this morning. I have written that the temperatures here were cold, well that has changed again, now it is warming up. It feels good to have some heat, as I am sure you are all waiting for! I am also sure that in a few more weeks from now I will be writing about how HOT it is here! I would guess the temp for the run was in the 70’s, perfect!
As we started our run I noticed that it felt much hotter. The first thing I noticed was that the wind was going to be a challenge. It was against us most of the way but it seemed to cool me down. I mentioned to the person running with me that it was funny that the wind was at our faces most of the way and kept us somewhat cool, but when at our backs, it seemed to disappear!
Another thing about our location is that there are helicopters flying all of the time. I could sit and listen to them all day. I love the sound of them above me. Today we had a few fly over us, it was awesome!
The roads we run on are just like the gravel roads in our rural areas. They are pretty beat up most of the time and the dust is crazy. Not as bad as my last blog, but after mile nine, it gets to be a lot! After a few miles, you can feel every rock that you hit, not a great feeling. Traffic here was not stopped for our little run so we had to make sure we were aware of our surroundings.
This course had a lot of turns, which was nice for the changes of scenery but it messed with you a bit, the longer stretches seemed really long! I kept a pretty good pace. I usually run my heart out and then get tired at the end. My new strategy is to get a good pace and stick to it, until the end, and then run my heart out.
The finish is always the best part. Most runners stick around and cheer on the people coming in, it is great to have people out there cheering for you and motivation helps me keep moving. I am always happy with my performance and that I even finished the thing. It was a great morning. Now time to relax for the rest of the day and take care of my legs!
Tonight I have a good story to tell. I have been trying to run as much as possible on our base, training for a half marathon on Sunday. It has been warming up and the time to run is either in the morning or at night. The afternoons are getting warm and the traffic is pretty bad. I am not a morning person, so the night time is the right time for me.
Tonight I was running with a guy from my unit. We noticed the wind was picking up and that some storm clouds were moving in. It seemed to be an ok time to run, my father-in-law runs when it is subzero temperatures, I felt that I could do this little run. We were heading out for our first mile, the wind was pretty strong so we decided to turn around and head back to our tents. It was the second mile that things seemed to change.
As we were running, we saw what looked like a huge cloud of thick black smoke. We knew it was sand, and thought that maybe we should stop to let it blow by. My previous Iraq experiences told me that most sand storms do not just “blow by”. We decided to run head first into it, hoping that it would not be that far until we were out of it. I could feel the sand starting to hit my face, not hard but I could feel it. Soon I felt like I was in the middle of a good old Minnesota fog. I could not see any lights in front of me, or my running partner behind me. I stopped a couple of times to flash my light on him, he flashed his light back. As we ran, trash was blowing all around us. I felt like I was in a horror movie, waiting to hear him or myself being sucked up by the huge storm cloud.
It only took us about five minutes, but felt longer, to make it through the cloud and back to the lighted streets. We laughed about how we saw it and decided to take it on. I took a picture of myself; it does not do justice to the amount of dust that is blowing around or what is in my lungs, but it makes my hair look almost white. I am sure I will be coughing it up for the next year.
1. Restructure teacher positions. There should be 2-3 Master Teachers for each grade K-8, a Master Teacher would an exempt position that would be responsible for providing teaching, coordinating teachers, curriculum development and leadership. A master teacher would a track record of leadership, dedication and performance, accordingly they would be paid a premium salary. Each student in a grade would have a Master Teacher meaning that a Master Teacher would have 50-70 children in their stable. There would still be additional teachers that would be primary educators but they would be positioned under the Master Teacher. At this point an example might be helpful...
According the Hartley website there are currently 5 Third Grade teachers and about 120 students (again I do not have specific numbers and this serves as an example), this would change to 2 Master Teachers and two standard teachers. The Master Teachers would develop tracks for students based on educational needs and assign them to proper teacher (Master or Standard). So instead of a teacher teaching a broad cross-section of 24 kids the same material that regardless of the students ability (Sally may learn the concept in 12 minutes while Dave needs 32 minutes) a teacher would teach 30 kids that are bunched a little more closely together. The end result is more efficient and individualized education for the children and the net saving of 1 teacher per grade. (Another alternative would be making teachers more vertical you would still have Master Teachers at the grade level but standard teachers might become Math teachers for grades K-3).
This change could net a reduction of 10-12 positions, the Master Teachers would absorb a portion of that savings in increased pay but would be worth the additional salary. The expectation is that these positions would be filled by superior teachers, because they are exempt employees they would not be bound by tenure or seniority. These Master Teachers would be tasked with, and supported in their efforts to, raise the overall level of Core subjects (math, reading and communication).
2. Special Education instructors will be stretched - Special education instructors perform a vital service and by no means do they have an easy job but as the budget is tightened they would be asked to help with mainline student education. This may mean grading papers, helping with curriculum development or other activities to ensure that quality is increasing.
3. Reduce athletic programs - Waseca School District does not have the resources to offer the full slate of sports, even moreso it cannot offer the depth and quality in the full slate as each sport fights each other for scarce resources. The District needs to make a conscious choice to specialize and excel in 3-5 sports. More resources would be available to those sports so that they could accommodate the level of interest and be fully supported. Students wanting to participate in other sports would be allowed the opportunity but they would have to bear the expense.
4. Reduce elective programs - Again the idea here would be to select a small number of programs and do them very well and move out of other areas. As with sports there is value in each of the activities but quantity is the enemy of quality given limited resources.
5. Use Community Education to support the core subjects as well as #3 and #4. Offer courses in Vedic Math, number puzzles, Harry Potter reading workshops, pen pal clubs, etc - take the commitment to excel as far as it can be taken. If the District decides Tennis is one of the sports that they will support Community Education can increase their tennis offerings at younger ages to build skills and interest. If French is the foreign language option that is chosen by the district this can be augmented with French Literature courses, French cooking, etc.
6. Actively recruit involvement and volunteerism - give people the opportunity to help in the school, but more importantly let them know that they are welcomed there and critical to the success of education. Talk with area employers about establishing Blue Jay Booster programs that would allow for flexible scheduling to accommodate for volunteering at the school (for parents and non parents!!!). Commercial property owners pay an amazing amount of any levy that is passed, allowing for flex time that reduces district costs is good for the bottom line.
7. Stretch the non-teaching staff - set aggressive goals for administration and support. There is no doubt that the workload is hard and has gotten tougher over the past few years but that is true in every position out there. We are all running lean but we must be leaner. Reduce non-teaching head count by 3 positions district wide.
8. Resist mandates - if you are not being funded start sending communication to St. Paul and Washington stating that you will no longer be able to comply with specific requirements. Tell them what the costs of those requirements are and a deadline by which you will stop complying. Let them respond with waivers or potential sources for additional funding. Squeak loud and often, copy all elected officials.
If, after considering these cuts and others identified elsewhere, there is a need for an additional levy I offer up the following:
1. Do not ask me to support a levy on election day. I do not know if the levy will pass and I do not know who will be spending it. My vote for school board is dependent on the levy, my vote for the levy is dependent on the school board. I realize that there is an additional cost to running the levy referendum separate from the general election but unknowns lead to conservative votes.
2. Talk with the City and County about their plans for tax increases. If you are asking for $400 per student levy, the City is boosting the tax rate by 3% and the County by 4% guess what the vote will be. Figure out what you need, speak with the City and County and all three entities present their needs together. I would offer this to the Council and County Commissioners - shaving your budgets to offset a levy increase would be a great investment in this community.
3. Do not promise cuts if the referendum fails - deliver cuts and allow taxpayers to invest in additions. To put it another way, plan for the referendum to fail. There should be no reacting after the fact, the voters are not taking money away they are just choosing not to add more. Having a business model that can exist without the levy shows that you are doing what is required.
4. Marketing the levy - make they levy short (3 years max), let the public know that if it fails you are committed to the working without it, let others do the talking for you. The economic climate is too uncertain for long term levy, State and Federal priorities and abilities (both on funding and policy) are in flux, committing to a 6 year levy is unreasonable. Let the voters know that you respect their decision on the referendum and that if they vote no that you will not be coming back in 6 months or a year. Most importantly keep the School Board members out of the marketing. If the taxpayers of this community see value in the referendum they will step forward and market the plan, they have the passion and commitment to sell the levy and the School Board doesn't get mired in the politics.
So there it is, my humble solution. It is not offered lightly, advocating for cutting teachers, staff and programming is not something I just toss out there. I have never met a
teacher that wasn't worth more than what they are paid. Sports do so much to build character, leadership and teach life lessons. I am an administrative person and work with administrative people all day - I understand what they do to provide for the success of an organization. I have 5 children that will be in the Waseca School district, one is hearing impaired and requires additional resources. But at the same time there are printers, waitresses, mechanics, machinists and every other occupation that are being squeezed during this time. That doesn't make it right, or make it better, it is just the times we live in.
I do look at these options as providing a step towards leaner more efficient education, there is a lot of technology that can and should be applied to take it from efficient to robust and first class.
And of course something shiny. And a bonus historical shiny .
“The Ice Harvest of 2010 was a glorious day on Clear Lake, cutting 20-inch blocks of ice, playing in the snow, breathing fresh air, and getting a sleigh ride to boot! Thanks to Waseca Central Intermediate School sixth graders and the TEAM Academy sixth graders for attending. Don’t forget to come to Chautauqua next July 3 and see if the ice in the little Ice House survives!
Now, here is a photograph c.1925 of an unidentified man cutting ice on Clear Lake with a rotary ice harvester! If anyone can identify the gentleman, please leave that comment; OR, if anyone knows where we could locate one of these rotary ice harvesters, please let WCHS know!
Thanks to all the volunteers, you’re great!”
The best word I can use to describe Owatonna native Mark Cameron's album "Life of Illusion" is this:
Solid.
First of all, let me address the vocals. As the lead vocalist, Cameron's voice is clear and spot on. Though he may reach towards the top, he never goes over it, which I appreciate. The back-up vocals that support his voice mingle nicely, creating a nice choral effect without over harmonizing.
Musically, the instruments are all played well, with mastery on the harmonica and organ/piano. The guitars are perfect, and the drumming never falters. This album is also not "over produced," meaning it stands on its own feet without the life being mixed and compressed out of it. There is a nice feeling of live recording, particularly on the song "Boxcar Blues."
The style of music is not one that I particularly care for, however, I am sure that it has commercial appeal to people who enjoy a nice bluesy-mixed-with-80's-kitch sort of sound. It reminds me a bit of "Texas Flood" mixed with "Money for Nothing." Does that make any sense?
Anyhow, my biggest issue is the songwriting itself. There is nothing particularly interesting about the arrangements, and perhaps that can be forgiven because of the blues 12 bar aspect, but even the guitar solos feel a little too familiar. I can only listen to three chords over and over again without getting bored for so long. While listening to the album I kept expecting a song to hook me in, but it never really happened. None of the songs made me want to move around, and none of them made me want to learn the lyrics and sing along.
The lyrics are also problematic. I know that music and poetry are not exactly the same, but there is too much "telling" and not enough "showing." The words take themselves a bit too seriously, and they feel forced, like they're trying too hard to be relevant. For example, from the song "Sometimes":
Love is a light that shines in a place you'll never be/ love is a picture in colors you know you cannot see/ love is a wandering soul that knows it will never find a home/ love is a crowd of people, every one of them is all alone.
Apart from the fact that none of these sentiments are very original, I am incredibly tired of being told what "Love" is.
But despite my qualms, I could never call "Life of Illusion" a bad album. It is a bit too down beat for my taste, but I can see how the relaxed or brooding individual would appreciate adding this to their collection. I get the impression that Mark Cameron is best served on the live stage, and you can see him at Katie O'Leary's on Saturday, February 27th, according to my information.
If you see the live show and like what you hear, then definitely pick up "Life of Illusion" to relive the experience.
Turnovers! I like them with fruit , Apple may be the best! Turnovers and basketball give you a bad taste in your mouth, YUK! I enjoy HS basketball, but I am weary of the lack of respect for the game by the locals. You better be able to count past your toes and fingers at a Waseca HS game, the girls are well into the 20s if not the 30s each game, the boys lost to Waterville with 28 TOs.
Think about it: that would be the number of times your favorite team did not get to shoot the ball! PLUS, the frustration , it can't add to the enjoyment of the player or the fan! Please take care of the ball, throw good passes, catch the ball, slow down just a bit and learn to make your team better by playing the game correctly! Basketball is the ultimate team game, you need the other players , it even takes two to throw the ball in play! Leave the turnovers in the bakery, start respecting the game! It is almost tournament time, now is the time to play your best.
The Mcloone boys were part of the Waseca athletic scene in the late 50s, 60s and early 70s. Like many other Waseca kids they honed their skills in the parks and athletic fields, their main field was across the street in Trowbridge park!
Johnny McLoone graduated in 1957; lettered in three sports at Sacred Heart. Excelled in football and track (state champ in 100 yd dash): After law school, resided in Waseca and practiced law the entire time. IV has six children is retired.
Jerry: class of 1959 was the QB on a SH undefeated in football team in 1958 under coach Bill Marton. Jerry was the undefeated state champion in the mile his junior and senior years.. He was a college psychology teacher, and practiced as a psychotherapis. He is married, with two daughters.
Mike, another Sacred Heart grad, lives in Mankato is married to Nancy: (thank God she said yes!) they have six children. Many of you know Mike as a softball player and baseball ump years ago: just a great guy!
Steve has 4 kids he lives in cities and is in sales and of course still in rock and roll! Steve is a member of MN R&R Hall of Fame with the band: Judd! Steve was a runner, football, and basketball player: a 1971 grad of Sacred Heart. Currently CEO of ULTIMASONGS Records.
The McLoone boys made an imprint on the Waseca sports scene, who do you remember in your HS days?
I am happy to be writing this blog for one reason, another month has gone by! I was hoping to write about watching the Vikings win the Super Bowl and how great it was to celebrate with the fan over here. I was also hoping to write you about running a half marathon in Afghanistan, neither of which happened. I do however want to send an update about what has been going on.
First is about the Super Bowl party we did have. It was a dreary day here, about the second day of off and on rain. We did manage to get some horseshoe pits installed, two sets of ladder golf, and a set of bean bag boards up. There were mini competitions going and grills burning. We had a great social hour or two and then most of us headed to our rooms, some stayed up and watched the Super Bowl at 4 am our time.
I would also like to tell you about the crazy weather we have. Many think that in the desert it is always HOT, not the case here. We have been having cold, not Minnesota cold, but cold weather here. I would guess it gets into lows of 30 and highs of 50. One day we had hail and the next sun the day after that is rain. In the mornings, the water puddles are frozen solid and many wear fleece hats and jackets with their long johns underneath. It may be a good thing that we are from Minnesota and we are kind of used to the extreme weather changes. I also find it funny that the one thing that most Minnesota’s can talk about is the weather, no matter what the conversation may be; it begins or ends about the weather.
We will be hitting another critical point in our deployment, double digits. It is a great feeling and many of us have some sort of countdown. It is great to see that the time here is coming to an end and that all of our hard work will start to wind down. It is a great feeling to know that soon we will be back in the USA, where the grass, we hope is green, the water is good enough to drink out of the sink, and we will not have to take a shower with flip flops. I know that my wife and kids are VERY excited to have me home, I am just as excited.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers. Please continue to pray for all of the troops. Thank you to the ones that have served and especially the ones that gave their lives.
Below, herein and forthwith is the Widespread Panic solution to the Waseca School District financial woes.
A couple of caveats as I go through my recommendations:
I am not a school board member, I do not have a source in the district offices so I am piecing this together with the information that I am able to gather on the web.
These recommendations may offend teachers, taxpayers, elected officials, and small children but they do reflect what I see as the best solution from my current perspective. I am very willing to debate and extremely willing to adjust my position based on additional information. I am going with what I know.
This is a recommended solution based on getting through the current financial situation and does not equal long term reform - I do plan to address that in the future, if you would like a sense of my long term feelings try here.
It may be painful to some but this will be a two part series with the structure being outlined here and specific steps being laid out in the next post, if you just want that part you will have to wait. I do recommend reading both posts and considering the steps and the structure together to get the most out of the discussion.
My approach on this is to position the Waseca School District to restructure operations and financial position to provide for stability, a value proposition for all stakeholders (District, Teachers, Students, Taxpayers), and provide the best education possible. This is multiple step approach to fixing the problem, while any of the steps can be taken by themselves in my view this does a disservice to the stakeholders. Making a tactical cut today that is not consistent with a longer term strategy inevitably leads to that cut being replaced in the future. Nobody needs those headaches...if the District is not confident that they will have Styrofoam trays for at least 5-7 years the cut is simply a poorly executed accounting shift that undermines their credibility.
So now we start getting into the good stuff - the core principles that will allow the Waseca Public Schools to deliver quality education at a reasonable price while being viewed as a premium choice for teachers and asset to that enhances the City and County of Waseca.
Quality Education - there is a reason we choose Campbell's Soup over the Hy-Vee store brand - it is consistently higher quality. Quality does not always equate to higher costs - "bed and breakfasts" in many cases provide a higher quality sleep/stay experience than the 5 star hotel. Quality is also subjective and depends on which attributes you are looking at - core curriculum, college prep, athletics, school atmosphere etc. My proposal requires that the district focus on the core educational components of Reading, Communication and Math. Everything else is subordinated to those three disciplines. Everything.
Reasonable Price - another gray term, reasonable to me, you, and the State of Minnesota are all very different things. So as I define it here reasonable price is: state funding = per pupil education costs + facilities and administration + cushion. Additionally there is: transition costs = additional levy. So while I do see a need for an additional levy to get the district from where it is to where it needs to be that number should be well defined and of limited duration. While the levy request will be the center of conversation the crux of the strategy lies in getting the per pupil education and facilities and administrative costs low enough that state funding covers them without a need for a levy - this will have an up front cost.
Premium Choice for Teachers - If you are committed to #1 and want to accomplish #2 you must create a district where teachers are viewed as talent. Not coddled, not handed the keys to the kingdom but recognize they are to education what Brett Favre and Joe Mauer are to their respective sports. If the district shows a commitment to quality education we will attract talented teachers. The flip side of that coin is that teachers of lesser quality will be passed by. This is a critical point and none too simple to manage.
Be an asset to the City and County of Waseca - the Waseca School District is not only responsible for educating our children but it also Waseca's second largest employer and in many cases the Waseca Blue Jay stands as our community's ambassador. The district needs to leverage and enhance these qualities. Improving our schools improves economic development and attracts new families. While there is no doubt that the City and County already realize this there is a need for the three to come together on common purpose.
So that is the vision I see for the Waseca School District, you may see a different vision that will lead you to other recommendations for dealing with the budget - I welcome your thoughts and suggestions. In the end however the School District needs to decide what it wants to be and communicate that to its students, teachers, taxpayers and the community. While the district excels in many ways it has failed in this respect and the end result is failed referendums, fiscal distress and a diminished reputation.
I know a gentleman that was opposed to the last referendum (he also doesn't care for my Converse sneakers - so his judgment may be suspect) that seems to be more open to a referendum this fall. What is the district's sales pitch? What is their plan? I would wager that if you can offer him the right value proposition his vote can be won, along with many more.
Non education related notes:
Coming into Waseca Saturday afternoon I spotted Council Member Clemons digging a stuck motorist out - thanks for being a good person John. I enjoyed serving with you.
Steve Conway - it was nice to meet you on Sunday, I enjoy your blog and your passion for local sports!!
Made the final table of an online poker tourney last night and exited in 5th when my pocket Aces fell to an improbable flush.
Gene is the Dad: all 6'8'' of him, nice guy who had a great 12' shot which served him through HS and Mankato State (Now Minnesota State- Mankato).; Geno has the Waseca HS record of 26 rebounds in one game vs. St. Peter in 1969.
Eric is the son: Eric played for Waseca HS 1997-2000 and is the all time leading scorer in Waseca basketball with 1467 total! I watched Eric a lot ; I still think he could have scored a bunch more if he posted up more often, he was a talent!
The Wood boys: Gene and Eric: played on teams which never made it to the State tourney: Genes 1969 team was upset in the sections and Eric's teams never quite put it together to beat the teams from Marshall HS. What is the measurement of a great team is your eyes? Winning State, making the tourney, or a great regular season? What do you think?
Contact Steve Conway at steveconway47@yahoo.com
Somebody stole my shiny from my last post...actually it was prudently censored by the editor, it probably crossed the line of good taste, but if you are really interested search for Dayjoborchestra on youtube.
All right - I got this in the mail yesterday - Waseca's own, and fellow WCN blogger is going to be at Center for the American Experiment luncheon in St. Paul to discuss trimming the budget. I definitely will be going and am wondering if anybody else would like to carpool/caravan. I am thinking it would be even better if we could maybe swing by the Capitol and visit our new Senator and Representative Kath to get their thoughts on trimming the budget as well. Shoot me an email at matthew.johansen@gmail.com if you are interested.
The best band to ever come out of Minnesota is playing at Busters in Mankato tomorrow night (sorry Schmojoes).
Thoughts on the Greek monetary crisis from Mises.org:
"For the member states in the eurozone, the costs of reckless fiscal behavior can also, to some extent, be externalized. Any government whose bonds are accepted as collateral by the ECB can use this printing press to finance its expenditures.[2] money bids up prices throughout the monetary union.
Each government has an incentive to accumulate higher deficits than the rest of the eurozone, because its costs can be externalized. Consequently, in the Eurosystem there is an inbuilt tendency toward continual losses in purchasing power. This overexploitation may finally result in the collapse of the euro.
Any tragedy of the commons can be solved by privatizing the specific resource. But instead of privatization, governments generally prefer regulation.
Such a regulation was installed for the European Monetary Union. It is called the Stability and Growth Pact, and it requires that each country's annual budget deficit is below 3% and its gross public debt not higher than 60% of its GDP. Sanctions were defined to enforce these rules.
Yet the sanctions have never been enacted and the pact is generally ignored. For 2010, all but one member state is expected to have a budget deficit higher than 3%; the general European debt ratio is 88%. Germany, the main country that urged these requirements, was among the first to refuse to fulfill them."
Now consider the US fiscal situation - deficit and debt - along with two failed US Treasury auctions in the last week and there is plenty of reason to get worried. Bernanke will surely inflate his way out of any large scale mess (a tool not available to Greece). In the end the common pays the price for inflation. There is a reason that you are seeing so many commercials for people who want to buy your gold...
Greetings all! I am glad to be back after a brief hiatus and hope to offer a number of posts over the next couple of weeks on all thats going on in Waseca and the nation. We live in exciting times!
To ease us back into the battle of common sense vs conventional wisdom I offer a few random bullets:
President Obama's 2011 budget calls for a deficit equal to 8.3% of GDP. Think about that for a second. The president is proposing that we borrow 8.3% of the nations total economy. Total spending is $3.8 Trillion while income is a $2.5 trillion...now the US has not had its financial house in order for quite sometime so I am not expecting modesty but this is absurd. How can Obama confront the evil risk taking banks for financial skullduggery from this position?
Highway 14 pothole repairs lasted all of 2 weeks. I somewhat understand the dynamics of deteriorating roadbeds and the impact of weather but this is Minnesota we must have something better than that.
Senate 26 campaign was definitely interesting and well contested by all three. I will devote a post in the next couple of weeks based on my view as the treasurer for Mike.
I did attend Mike's swearing in ceremony in St. Paul a very wonderful time, plenty of wonderful Waseca folks there supporting Mike.
I look forward to a new birth at the Old Town Eatery. I have enjoyed that restaraunt for many years - was easily my favorite lunch spot - I am going there on Friday for lunch and you should too - pass it on.
I love the snow this year- city and county have done great jobs on keeping up with snowplowing.
The Letterman, Oprah & Leno was by far the highlight of the Superbowl - other than knowing that the Vikings would have won by at least 3 touchdowns is that idiot Chlildress just would have went for 2 on the last Viking touchdown in the NFC Championship game.
The Citizens United case will unleash a ton of money into politics and will push the American electorate to that amazing point where politicians are elected/relected/unelected based on performance rather than soundbites, party affiliation and incumbency.
I have much more coming in the next few weeks, we shall tackle enviornmentalism as religon, my previously promised education solution, campaign finance and sharpen our focus on local politics.
As a final note I would like to say thank you to the city of Waseca. A little over a year ago my three adopted boys arrived here from Texas, they have been made to feel welcome by so many of you and it is greatly appreciated. The boys have become Wasecans and they love it.
Do you remember the ice harvests? Do you remember the Johnston Ice Co.? Do you remember having a block of ice delivered once a week to your “ice box” to keep your butter and milk cold? Waseca was lucky to have a large lake here in town as a source for ice! How did they keep the ice into the warm months of spring and summer? What do you remember!
I was a little girl in the late 1940s on the east side of St. Paul. And I remember when the iceman came. He was a burly man with a swatch of black rubber caped across his shoulders to protect him from the block of ice he hoisted there with a pair of large tongs. He’d bring it right into our kitchen and dropped it in our ice box. The ice box was insulated and was kept cold with that one block of ice! Very gradually the ice melted and water filled a tray below. Sometimes my brother and I would help mom empty that tray when it got full. And every week we received another ice delivery. By the 1950s most people had an electric refrigerator, and we did, too. But for years, many people held onto their icebox until ice was no longer delivered.
The Waseca County Museum will be presenting the Annual Ice Harvest on WED, FEBRUARY 17, 10-3 at Clear Lake Park. Come and learn about the Ice Harvest! Watch then score, cut and haul the ice to the little Ice House. Then come to Chautauqua at Maplewood Park next July 3 and look in the little Ice House and see if the ice is still there! What do you think?
In Waseca it is known as WBA or Waseca Basketball Association! Boys tourney was held last Saturday and I am sure provided a lot of great action and thrills for the kids and families without going out of town for a change!
You haven't lived till you experienced the thrill of seeing your kid step on the court and soon be transformed into a superstar! We all want the best for our kid, some want it without the work/effort of time and practice: others spend lots of time and money to provide the best in court time and coaching for THE KID! We lived the season and had fun with it! Sure there were times of anguish but....... We also enjoyed the weekly open gym times and it became a unwritten rule that that 2-3 hours on Saturday was a must for all the kids! We had fun!
I did coach one year but my main job was to holler at the refs and befriend other parents from towns which Waseca played against. I mastered each job! I had fun and still see the friends I made those WBA years! Many of the refs are still friends of mine, not all but many! WBA a great experience, how about you? Is it or was it a positive for your family?
I am a sucker for themes, especially those where I get to dress up, so let me just say that I am incredibly excited over 80's Night at PJ's Tavern on Friday, January 29th. Anything that involves a costume contest is worth attending, in my opinion. Here are some things that I know about the 80's:
Madonna. Enough said.
On the day I was born, Cyndi Lauper's "Time After Time" was number 1 on the music charts. I neither take that as a good thing or a bad thing.
Some of the best movies were made in the 80's, such as Back to the Future, Ghostbusters, and The Goonies.
Fashion was big hair, gigantic shirts with shoulder pads, and leggings for the girls, zubaz for the boys. (Ok, zubaz didn't hit big until the 90's, but they were created in 1988 by two Minnesotans named Dan Stock and Bob Truax as a comfortable clothing item to wear while weight lifting. I also realize they were popular with both genders. My zubaz were pink, black, and gold.) And since fashion was so ridiculous, it makes for a good costume contest.
Speaking of hair, sideways ponytails and "crimping" were pretty popular.
Tom Hanks and Peter Scolari rocked wigs and dresses in Bosom Buddies.
In 1985 The Nintendo Entertainment System was introduces to the US, along with Super Mario Brothers, which launched a home video game revolution.
Since the 80's ended when I was six years old, I don't remember all that much. What 80's trivia do you know?
Occasionally WCHS needs help identifying a photograph, and members of the community have been able to do that.
Recently we received an artifact representing part of the history of the Waseca Water &Light Board. It is a handsaw used to trim tree branches that interfere with telephone wires. The saw teeth are slanted in one direction so as not to let the workman lose his balance and footing as he used the saw! And this artifact reminded me of this photograph in our collection--Does someone know who is standing atop this telephone pole? The year is likely sometime between 1910 and 1925. We’re not even sure this is Waseca, but wouldn’t it be great if it is?
Sometimes, Waseca County history . . .is unexpected!
There is good news and bad in the special election to fill the state senate seat of retiring legislator, Dick Day. The good is that we have three candidates who present very different styles and (with some exceptions) competing views on the pertinent issues of the day.
For example, on the budget, the Republican candidate, Mike Parry, hews pretty close to Republican orthodoxy - and will clearly be a feisty advocate for spending cuts (fifteen percent across the board) though he wavers when asked whether that applies to education or any other specific budget category. The Democrat, Jason Engbrecht, refuses to identify any area of current government spending he feels we can do without - despite a huge whole in the state's budget - and advocates "revenue" increases as part of the budget solution. The Independent, Roy Srp, stresses his record as Mayor in keeping the city's budget in the black (without property tax increases) despite state imposed cuts in Local Government Aid - and pledges to bring the same approach to state budgeting. This is just a sample of what we are learning as these three candidates share their views with area voters. Fortunately, because of seven debate forums (all of which have been covered by the local media), we are being given ample opportunity to compare and contrast the candidates.
Here is the bad news. Area voters are also being inundated with robo-calls and mass mailings (some of them negative) all financed with outside money. The two major parties (Republican and Democrat) and their associated interest groups are determined to win this election to advance their own agendas (which in many respects do not align at all with the concerns and needs of area residents). And they are obviously willing to spend whatever it takes to "buy" their candidate a victory. Do your best to ignore this outside influence - and instead make your decision next Tuesday based on what you know about each of these candidates. Here in Waseca, we already know a lot about two of the three contenders, Mayor Srp and former councilman Parry. We have learned more about them and Mr. Engbrecht through the frequent debates. So, vote what you know – not what these outside groups want you to believe.
Hello everyone! I apologize for not writing for such a long time. I have had a bit of writers block! I would compare our time here like the movie, “Groundhogs Day”. I did have a different type of day on Sunday and would like to share it with you.
I was able to sleep in a little on Sunday; it was a nice break from the demanding days in my office. My coworker is on her 2 week leave and it has been crazy without her help! I woke up and took a shower in our shower tents, which have a water heater! (I may have mentioned that in a previous blog). It was great to have a hot shower. Anyways I got to work and started my day off by reviewing a stack or two of paperwork. I review and submit paperwork for things like pay, awards, promotions, evaluations, and other things that are important in the career of a Soldier. Well I did this for most of my morning. I went to eat lunch at our chow hall. I usually eat a microwave meal that was sent to me, but this day I felt it would be good to get out of the office. Well to my surprise they had Chicken Cordon Blue! I love the stuff so much I ate two. I had a nice conversation with my buddies, I am sure it was about our countdown until we leave or something else Military.
After lunch I went back to my office and heard some singing outside. I remembered it was the first “Afghan Idol” competition. I went out to enjoy the sounds of 6 groups of Soldiers battle out their karaoke skills. A Staff Sergeant from our company got second place! It was good to see some enjoyment happening. It was a bit different not seeing karaoke being sung in a bar, but we make due. It takes a lot of courage to get up in front of people and sing a song without some help!
After these festivities I went over to our Maintenance section and joined a group of faithful Vikings fans gathering for a grill and conversation. One of the guys downloaded a recent episode from KFAN and we all listened to the people on the show having a great time. A couple of our extremely talented grill chefs cooked up some delicious chicken and steak. It was a great escape from our daily life here.
A dedicated group of 40 or so of us stayed up until 10:30 pm our time to watch the Vikings stomp the Cowboys! It was well worth it to stay up until 2:00 am to see how amazing the Vikings have become. I told a guy recently that as much as I did not want to admit it, Bret Favre made me a football fan.
My next day started again at 6:00 am, but with the pride of our state flowing through many of us, it was a great day. Happy New Year everyone! Be sure to welcome home the men and women who are returning home, remember the ones who are still here or are leaving their families soon, and never forget the ones who have given their lives.
Jim Kozan has a great smile which can be found at Waseca Music Store or on stage at many of the local watering holes and wedding/celebrations. Kozy is a performer! One week in 1967 while at Waseca Sacred Heart HS, Jim scored 47 points in one varsity game and 41 points the next game in the same week! Kozy was a left handed scoring machine! Jim enjoyed his playing time and was a great teammate on and off the court! The smile you see today was on the court back then as well The next time you need entertainment for your family celebration call Kozy, but then ask him about scoring 47 points in one HS basketball game his senior year! Wow!
High School sports are great aren't they? I watch HS athletes work their tails off on the mat, court, field, rink etc. They are enjoying one of the great times in their lives, the fellowship, the goal setting and achievement, the training and the results are life long memories.
The Waseca area has had great HS players, not many have made it to the big stage but the action has been memorable. Remember the the Edwards boys? Eustice boys? The Kelly's, the McLoone's, the Glynn's, the Dufault's, and others? What family has made the biggest impression on HS sports around Waseca for you? Records books for all Waseca area sports are dotted with names, who in your mind stands out?
Hey everyone, how was your New Year's Eve? I had an awesome time and caught the first set of The Schmoejoes over at Barden's Bar. More about that later. I just hope everyone stayed safe and had a great time. How many of you used the free taxi service? I actually did not, because alcohol is expensive, but the entertainment was free, so I just caught the show and moved on.
This Saturday, January 9th, Arrows at Dawn are playing at Club 57 at 9:30p.m. They've been working on an album that should be out any day now, so keep your eye on them! They're a rocking local act that perform original music, and they've been quickly establishing themselves in the southern Minnesota music scene. Check them out if you can!
Also, has anyone been over to PJ's Tavern lately? I saw that they've got their new sign up, and the renovations seem to be coming along nicely. I'll have to get over there sometime soon and see what other changes have been made. They're going to have DJs on Friday, January 8th and Saturday, January 9th. Apparently they also have a new wine selection, and if they have Mamertino, I may have to investigate that as well.
Up at Gilligan's Bar and Grill in Waterville, Kozy Lil' Duo is playing on Friday, January 8th from 6-10p.m. They play mostly covers from the 60's onward, but they do also offer up some originals.
I'm sure something's going on this weekend at Katie O'Leary's, but I have not had time this week to check out their posters to see who's playing. Did anyone catch The Blue Ringers when they played out at Katie's last month?
Well, that's all I've got for this weekend. Be sure to check out wasecaentertainmentreview.blogspot.com where you can find my New Year's Eve review of Barden's Bar, as well as a little bit of audio from The Schmoejoes (which isn't the best quality, so it's best to listen to at a lower volume).
Just had a family wedding! What does that have to do with sports? Well, the majority of invites were made to sport friends and relatives. Choir was a main stay but most relatives and friends were established or nurtured within the confines of an athletic field! Great people in sport, most are fans of their own children as well and appreciate the good times and success in the past. Many sport contacts last because we find that the instant gratification leads to a true friendship down the road, we care for the person who ONCE was an athlete! Pretty neat actually! In hindsight there are many great sport friends who could have been invited but......... Sports are great but family is the best and to have the kids home was special! My daughter Stephie married Joe and he loves sports! Life is good! See you at a ball game, become a fan again if you have not been.
We found this phrase on another museum website recently. It’s simplicity and directness impressed me, and because of our current success with our doll house exhibit, the fun part rang true.
Sometimes museums spend so much time gathering the facts, and the whole story, that we forget to just have a good time. We, on the staff of WCHS are passionate about Waseca County history and family and community relationships inherent in our work; but this fun exhibit has brought a lot of people together at YOUR museum for the pure pleasure of remembering our childhoods and our opportunities to just play.
It's a "feel good" experience at a time in which it is sorely needed. So many of our visitors, young and old, continue to appreciate the artistry, craftsmanship and great care these doll houses exhibit. And we are all grateful for the sharing . . . Happy New Year!
My 14 year old invited me to play SIMS with her the other night. OK, I thought, computer games are not my thing, but she loves it.
She told me we would first create our family in SIMS. Fascinating stuff, really. First you pick the age and gender, then the facial features, then things like glasses, hairstyles and clothing (although the part where you pick their style of underwear was a bit creepy).
So we are creating her sister Annie and she says "should she have glasses?" I felt she should as she wears them in real life. Meagan reminded me this was NOT real (as if I might have forgotten). Now I was confused, she told me we were creating our family in SIMS and yet they need not look like us? Who should they look like?
Things went fine for a while, we created Jeff, myself (thinner version with a fabulous hairstyle) and several of the children. Then she told me we could not create the last four children. I asked her why, she told me SIMS considered anything more than six children irresponsible. I started laughing as I realized SIMS had probably figured out something I had not. Technology is scary.
So the game goes on with just the eight of us. Meagan then informs me that we now will have serious problems affording a house that will fit the family. I am feeling smart now as I figured THAT one out YEARS before the SIMS. Not very often do I get to feel superior to technology.
Then something happened. Meagan informed me this would not be a problem after all as she had a "code" that would give the family and endless budget. I was speechless, incredulous. Sure enough, she swiftly enters a few keystrokes, and there it is, MILLIONS of dollars in our bank account!
I demanded to know why she had never told me this before. She looked confused, at best. I had lots of questions, who do I bring this code to? Shall I bring it to Roundbank? The IRS? Who shall I bring this marvelous code to and WHY would she keep it a secret?
That girl rolled her eyes at me.
Meagan tells me we must choose and furnish a home as well as a location for the house. I liked the idea of a small plot of land just outside of town, perhaps we could do some organic gardening? Meagan allowed my selection and we began furnishing the house. Things were peaceful for a bit, but Meagan quickly became frustrated with me again. I wanted a center island in the kitchen, Meagan felt that request was unreasonable, but granted it, reminding me that this was NOT real. I know it's not real, that's why I get a nice kitchen, DUH! She became very frustrated when I told her a kitchen sink had been forgotten. I felt that a sink was rather rudimentary to a kitchen, but she disagreed. I DID get the sink, but quickly realized I had better be less brazen with my requests.
So the game goes on and we are planning the yard. She chooses a swingset, nice idea. She then informs me we will need a fence the entire perimeter of the property with a locking gate. She seems frustrated when I ask her why on earth we would do this, we live on beautiful property at the edge of town, with a large yard for her siblings to play in . I will never forget what she told me next....."if you do not secure your property the neighbors will come in". And that would be bad because............? "Because they don't just stop over, they come in whenever they want, eating all of your food, using your shower and stealing your children'. Now I thought she was pulling my leg. So she demonstrated. Sure enough, here come the neighbors, and they DID! They just wandered in any time, day or night eating our food, using our shower and taking the children, much like when your grown children stop by the house. I demanded to move to a better neighborhood. That girl rolled her eyes at me again.
I am not sure when we will play SIMS again, while I enjoyed the time with my daughter I found the parameters of the game frustrating at best. Meagan found my requests frustrating, at best.
I will however be contacting my personal banker, Pam, on Monday morning. I am sure she can help me set my new code on the checking account. She is always so helpful, and never rolls her eyes at me.
Congress does not pass “landmark” legislation very often – and it remains to be seen as to whether the health care reform bill (now moving to a conference committee and ultimate passage) will meet that standard.
However, I can say that when compared against other celebrated pieces of landmark legislation, it appears to fall short. The main reason is the lack of bipartisan support.
The Civil Rights Act and the Medicare program are two landmark laws that immediately come to mind. Both programs were enacted in the mid-1960s and both had bi-partisan backing. Why does support from both major parties matter? The answer: Because bipartisan support in Congress better reflects “common ground” within the American electorate. In addition, on an issue as important as health reform, good ideas are not the sole domain of either party. Without broad-based support from the voters – support that is clearly lacking for this health bill according to recent opinion polls – major reform is subject to reversal due to voter backlash. In short, major changes in social policy are typically not sustainable when enacted on a party line vote.
Second, there is the question of cost control. This health reform bill is heavy on provisions that will expand access to health care – a noble goal (but an expensive one). However, it is entirely too weak on controlling costs within the health care system. Most voters want to see government health care costs brought down before programs like Medicare and Medicaid bust the budget. This bill does little to address that concern (despite the much debated “cuts” in Medicare). Most voters also want to see reform that stops the annual double digit increase in private sector health insurance plans. Sadly, this bill does nothing to stop those increases from occurring – and, in fact, worsens the inflationary factor for those trying to purchase insurance on the open market.
Finally, this bill was processed in the worst possible manner. Forcing a vote under the pressure of a Christmas deadline meant that an inordinate number of deals had to be cut to garner the needed votes. For example, we saw Senators literally being bought off with promises of federal dollars for Medicaid to their states well in excess of the payments that would be made to other states. This kind of horse-trading is patently wrong, unfair and inequitable. Worse, it adds greatly to the future cost of this health reform bill (and will likely lead to many other states demanding the same sweet – and expensive - deal). In all, it was an ugly scene as these last minute deals were being cut. I do not think it bodes well for the Democrats who used these tactics to pass a bill that is opposed by a majority of the American electorate. That is my two cents.
I'm sure by now everyone has probably already planned out where they're going and who they're going with as far as New Year's Eve celebrations go, but just in case you haven't, here's some of the entertainment you can catch in town on Thursday, December 31st.
At Barden's Bar, the Schmoejoes will be playing their annual New Year's Eve Bash, beginning at 9:00p.m. In case you're wondering who they are and what they're about, please reference my past blogs, particularly the Jon Lucca interviews.
PJ's Tavern is having their own New Year's Bash with DJ Screammin' Productions from 9:00p.m. - close. If you're just looking to move around and have a good time, this may be the event for you.
Over at Club 57, they'll be kicking off the festivities at 9:30p.m. with the band Unhinged. This is a cover band that leans toward the heavy metal/hard rock persuasion. They cover a lot of Metallica, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, and TOOL.
The local band Frankie's Boys will be playing over at Katie O'Leary's from 9:00p.m. until close. This band is a local favorite and a standby, so if you have time to check them out, I'd recommend popping in to see them.
Please remember that the taxi service is free in Waseca that night, so if you have a few drinks, don't feel pressured to drive yourself home. If you can, though, I'd recommend getting a designated driver. There are only two taxis, and they can only do so much at a time. Should you choose to utilize their service, be a good sport and tip generously, because they're contributing to your good time.
I also wanted to take this time to announce Waseca Entertainment Review's additional website, which you can visit at wasecaentertainmentreview.blogspot.com . Here you will find archived blogs, read added content, and listen to streamed audio of my podcast. Podcasts will include full, uncut interviews with local musicians and business owners, so you'll want to check back often!
Bruce Smith was from Faribault Mn, he played halfback for the back to back national champion Gophers in 1940-1941, and won the Heisman in 1941! That's right, Faribault kid won the Heisman Trophy, was a big time athlete and a big time person before his death from Cancer in 1967! The trophy is presented to the best College FB player of the year per vote of Sportcasters, writers and former Heisman winners. I visited the New York Athletic club near Central Park in NY, pretty impressive place and of course very historic! Smith is still the only Gopher to win the award in school history! Smith and the Heisman are a long time ago but so is the last Gophers title in the Big Ten! 1967 the year Smith past away, the Gophers tied with Indiana but Hoosiers went to the Rose Bowl! This New Years day Ohio State will play Oregon in the Rose Bowl, as you watch the action remember it has been over 40 years since the Gophers qualified and almost 50 years since they played in the Grand Daddy of them all: Rose Bowl! Go Gophers!
Christmas season is in the air for the majority of us here at FOB Leatherneck. We have some small trees up with little decorations and some battery powered lights and a few wrapped presents to give it that extra Christmas feeling. We also have some stockings hung up and my office has a candy cane countdown.
We have also received an unbelievable incredible amount of support from so many people from our homes, to the entire State, and even other states! All of us here are so grateful and cannot say thank you enough for all of your efforts and support. We also know that thoughts and prayers flood us daily and we certainly appreciate all of them.
Next week is already Christmas! It is hard to believe where the time has gone and we are also grateful for that. It is definitely a time what we can sit back and reflect on all that has happened in the last year and look very happily to the next year. It is a time that we wish that we were at home enjoying the snow and all the great things we can do with the season. I personally miss the snowmobiling and plowing the many driveways my brother has me help with. I also miss building snowmen and sledding with my kids. I wish I was home to go shopping for gifts and to see my children's eyes when they open their presents. The smell of cookies and turkey filling the air! Many of us will miss all of these things but it is also a great feeling to know that our families are safe at home.
I would also like to take this time to thank the veterans before me, serving with me, and the future ones that will help protect my family and friends. It is a great feeling knowing there are so many that fight for our freedoms and safety. With that I would also like to thank the families of these Veterans. I was thinking to day that without my family I could not do this. I have said it before and will say it again that my wife and kids have served just as much as me and to them and all military families, Thank you.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone!! Thank you again for all of your love and support!
Today I have on me an interview conducted electronically with Tom Little of the Waterville band, The Blue Ringers. I've seen his band in action, and they put on a fun show. Apart from playing gigs in different venues, they often have a big bash up at their house in the boonies/farmland of Waterville, which I am told is one of the best events of the year.
First of all, I asked Tom to describe The Blue Ringers, so people who are interested in seeing them would know what they're about.
"We play a variety of rock, mostly the 80s through today," he answered, "but we also do a few older rock tunes and a few country tunes.
We put on an energetic show with the focus on getting the crowd dancing and partying."
Tom felt pretty early on that he wanted to be a musician."I think I was 17, and my friends and I were all into 80s hard rock. As I would sit in class all day I would dream about being a rock star and performing in front of lots of fans. My best friend, John Peach, The Blue Ringers' drummer, told me I should play bass since he was a drummer and we had friends that played guitar. So I got myself a bass guitar. It wasn't until I was 19 that I got serious with it though."
And about Tom's big dream? "My dream to be a rock star did not exactly come true, but The Blue Ringers is close enough to that dream for me," he explains. "It allows me to pretend to be a rock star on some weekends and still have my normal life, which I love."
I asked Tom if there were any interesting stories that he could tell, and at first he was elusive.
"You do see some crazy things over the years, some that are better not to publish," he started, but then followed with a few print-friendly tidbits. "This one has probably happened to lots of bands. We had a gig in New Ulm and when we showed up there was another band there setting up. The gig had been double booked and we were not too happy about it. We called around and found someone that would pay us a little to play at a barn party so we went and did that. We did have two people meet at one of our shows and eventually they got married. That was cool, we still stay in touch with them."
When I asked Tom which venue in Waseca he loves to play, his direct answer was, "Katie O'Leary's. The atmosphere is perfect for us (we love the owner, bartenders and all the patrons there) and the building itself has great acoustical properties."
A lot of the other bands from Waseca that Tom likes tend to play at Katie's as well. I asked him who some of his favorite local bands are, and he answered, "For classic rock and blues, you have to love The Murphy Brothers. For a cool acoustic group there is a band called The Rain Kings who are simply great. If you like to rock a little harder than The Blue Ringers, then it is hard to beat IV Play." Just to clarify, that is a roman numeral, and the band's name is pronounced four-play.
The Blue Ringers will be playing at Katie O'Leary's on Friday, December 18th from 9pm - 1am. I highly recommend checking them out if you can, their covers are good and they like to work with the crowd.
That's all I have for this weekend. Next weekend will be blog-less, because I am taking the time to enjoy the holidays. I hope you all have a great weekend and happy holidays to you all!
Obviously an interesting week in local/state politics. First things first I am the Treasurer for Mike Parry's State Senate Campaign so expect a little bias in my commentary.
I wish both Roy and Mike the best of luck in their campaigns. Roy has shown that he can be a leader and rally the troops when needed. Mike's strong suit lies in communication/sales (whether it be radio spots, pizza or ideas). Roy has the patience of Job and that is needed at the state level. Mike is never a shrinking violet, you know he is in the room, you know what he wants and why he wants it. They both have other great qualities that will serve them well but I think it is Mike's confident take no prisoners approach that will serve the Waseca district the best. The non metro contingency is often beaten back by the polish and cohesion of the metro legislators. Mike will be a vocal proponent for outstate needs. Good luck gentlemen!
On to other things (but I am sure we will visit on this again before the election Jan 26)
The Waseca School Boards (more precisely Keith Hiller's) proposal to bring TEAM back into the district is interesting. There are redundant costs that create wasteful spending, neither party is being wasteful - just paying for identical resources that could easily be shared is not efficient. To me the interesting question is if you are a TEAM supporter wouldn't you want that approach shared with other students as well? Stated differently what if the merger were seen as TEAM absorbing the district? On a related note I have been working on my "Widespread Panic Education Solution" for a couple of weeks now and hope to have that posted prior to the New Year - yep, I have all the answers.
I read a great article about banking - the jist was that banks have moved from lending primarily to businesses to devoting more of their assets to consumers. Business debt is more productive in that is rolled over several times a year as a business cylces - loan proceeds are used to by inventory, finished goods are sold, debt is paid down begin again. The purchases are capital purchases that add to productivity. Consumer debt is used for finished goods and the cycle ends, the debt stays on the books longer. Banks are able to hold the debt for longer terms because the FDIC program protects banks from bank runs. No bank runs = less need for liquidity = higher fractional reserve lending = higher leverage= too big to fail. Total bank assets have more than doubled in the past decade while business loan totals have only gone up 25%. No we find President Obama calling all the "Fat Cats" on to the carpet for following the road that the Keynesian road (see excessive saving at the link) that has been advocated by the Democratic party (brief rant - if anyone tells you that colleges do not have an agenda when they teach students please see the late Paul Samuelson's quote "I don’t care who writes a nation’s laws — or crafts its advanced treatises — if I can write its economics textbooks". Paul had an agenda to advance Keynsian economics and was very successful as his text is the text of choice at most public colleges. This leads to a whole generation that was taught a slanted perspective that has led to our current economic straits. Admittedly there are other texts that offer their own take but Samuelson's quote is a warning for us all) for decades.
I have to admit the whole health care debate has dampened my spirits lately. So many bright folks in Washington and they seem to be racing for the mediocre (and wrong). It would be like going out for dinner with Emeril Lagasse and Bobby Flay and they say "lets go to Old Country Buffet". This is America give us a little spice!
That is all for now - don't worry I have something shiny for you.
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference
I had the opportunity to attend a dinner honoring Coach Steve Wilkinson of Gustavus
College Saturday evening. The above prayer is condensed but is the model for The Coach in 40 years of coaching men tennis at Gustavus.
Yes, a simple prayer which shaped and molded young men into adulthood, also influenced their families in a way which I have never seen. Judy and I sat with 350 other fans and enjoyed 5 hours of the same story over and over on how the Coach made them a better tennis player but more importantly a better person! The smile, the listening, the guiding hand, the consistent love, the knowledge of tennis and life, and always available to advise are the hallmarks of The Coach!
The Coaches faith was put into action every day with young men searching for answers to questions we all ask each day no matter our age. I am a better person for knowing Coach Steve Wilkinson! By the way record for Coach Wilkinson 1971 - 2009 was 929 wins and 279 losses.
I know it has been a while since I wrote one of these, and I sincerely apologize to my avid readers (if I have any), but with Thanksgiving and finals at college, I haven't had a whole lot of free time on my hands.
One thing I managed to do before Thanksgiving was to take a trip over to Club 57. My husband and I went over there Wednesday, November 25th to check out the AC/DC cover band, TNT.
The thing that always strikes me as odd about Club 57 is their total lack of flow. I don't know if this comes from remodeling an already set building, but anyhow, it just doesn't work. Two steps behind the bar is a wall, presumably to separate the "bar" crowd from the "sit-down" crowd. This wall causes amazing problems, however, should there be more than five people in the area. The people standing at the bar to order end up blocking the path to the bathrooms, forcing patrons to go around the wall and past the jukebox. Therein lies another problem, when regulars fill up the area on the other side of the wall. Now there is absolutely no way to reach the bathrooms, unless you feel like pushing your way through an established group, which is never comfortable.
The service is also incredibly lacking. You may get attention shortly after you walk in, but the people at the bar get absolute precedence. If you are at a table, forget getting served any time soon. You're better off stalking up to the bar, getting your drink, and bringing it back to your seat, to try to remember where the conversation left off with your friend(s).
In their favor I will say, I love the vintage poster decor. This gives it a classy feel that some of our other Waseca venues are lacking. This does not, however, make up for the lack of decent flow or service.
As for the stage, it is an okay size, but there is not much room for people who want to watch the show. Again you have an oddly shaped room, where if you get pushed into the wrong spot, you have no chance of seeing the performance.
And here I must say: What performance?
My husband and I got to Club 57 at 7:30, and waited (and drank rum and Coke) until 9:00, when TNT would presumably take the stage. They did, shortly after, and played a song. After being informed that the first song was a sound check, the band promptly disappeared.
We waited.
And waited.
Then we looked at each other and asked "Time to go home?" With a mutual nod, we left.
From the little bit I heard of TNT, they are a decent tribute band, and I would have liked to have heard more. But generally if a band says they are playing at 9:00, they should play within 15 minutes of that time. Unless they were having serious gear/sound issues, I felt like we were getting the brush-off. People visiting venues in the cities wouldn't have put up with that, and neither should we.
So needless to say, the night was a bit of a disappointment. I hope to get out again in the near future, however, and check out some bands. Maybe I can corner Marcus Penny for an interview.
Anyhow, onto the weekend, and into the week a bit.
Since I checked out Club 57, I'll start there. On Saturday, December 12th the band 69 Cents will be playing. Then at 10:00p.m. on Thursday, December 17th they'll have the a'capella band Heatbox. I browsed their myspace page and was at first repulsed by their droning, repetitive song about needing a Jack and Coke, but I was pulled back in by Pizza Funk. If you've been looking for something new and original, this would be a good act to see. They're like Rockapella, but more funky.
Next up is PJ's Tavern, the easiest to report since they are having a DJ on both Friday the 11th and Saturday the 12th.
Finally there will be DJ Matt the Ratt at Katie O'Leary's on Friday night, and the band Urban Myth will be playing Katie's on Saturday. Urban Myth is a fun band, but the lead singer didn't thrill me, and their keyboard setting bordered on irksome. This is just the impression I got from one song, however, so there is potential that this band has more to offer. Their pictures led me to believe that they have an easy-going stage presence, and they look like they enjoy what they do.
That's it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend, everyone, and enjoy the snow!
Christmas is coming!
A little snow (maybe a lot of snow), a little chill, and a lot of decorations and lights helping to make the season bright. Last weekend Waseca was alive with visitors for all the activities that were planned to coincide with the Waseca Arts Council’s “Sights and Sounds of Christmas” House Walk! The Waseca County Museum’s "Christmas Night at the Museum, A Doll House Walk" was very well attended and we thank all those visitors from all over for stopping. You came from 45 different Minnesota communities, six states and two foreign countries!
This is a "feel good" exhibit because everyone who strolled amongst the 21 doll houses were having such a good time remembering childhood and sharing with their friends and families. Grandparents were pointing out little furnishings and details to their grandchildren, grown women were commenting, "I feel like a little girl again!" or "I had a doll house like that one!" The best part was the sharing of experiences, and the meaning of those experiences. Many friends came together, many Wasecans were hosting friends and relatives who traveled to Waseca and view this exhibit together.
There is great variety of styles, decorating, and sizes--from a tiny matchbox doll house in the WCHS Collection to the three-story townhouse.
The Doll House Walk is the good thing that is still going on through January 16, during regular museum hours, Tues-Fri, 9-5 and Saturdays, 10-2. Hey, Waseca County community, this is your museum, come see us over the holidays!
What did you enjoy most about the Doll House Walk?
Coaching HS football is a big job: low pay long hours etc. We all know that big money follows Division 1 FB coaches but notice the coaches listed on the all time wins list below, not all worked for big money! The hype with coaches changing jobs, Colleges looking for the next savior is the big TV money talking no doubt! The HS jobs are going to be more difficult with budget cuts, the hours will still be long, the lack of money will hinder kids going out and fans will think twice about paying 8-10 dollars to see game! Or will it get better with quality kids only on the field? What do you think? Maybe more one sport athletes? Maybe better choices made by the parents and the athlete? Maybe less choice of activity? What do you think?
1. John Gagliardi, Carroll College/St. John's University (1949-2009): 471-126-11
2. Eddie Robinson, Grambling State (1941-1997): 408-168-15
3. Joe Paterno, Penn State (1966-2009): 393-129-3
4. Bobby Bowden, Samford/West Virginia/Florida State (1959-2009): 388-129-4
5. Amos Alonzo Stagg, Springfield College/Chicago/Pacific (1892-1946): 329-190-35
6. Paul W. "Bear" Bryant, Maryland/Kentucky/Texas A&M/Alabama (1945-1982): 323-85-17
7. Glenn Scobey "Pop" Warner, Georgia/Cornell/Carlisle/Pitt/Stanford/Temple (1895-1938): 318-106-32
8. Roy Kidd, Eastern Kentucky (1964-2002): 314-124-8
9. Forrest "Frosty" Westering, Parsons College/Lea College/Pacific Lutheran (1962-2003): 302-96-7
10 Harold R. "Tubby" Raymond, Delaware (1966-2001): 300-119-3
I thought I would write this time about the advances of communication since past wars. Every day I am amazed and grateful for what I am able to accomplish while I am here. My job is mainly spent staring at a computer and doing research. I honestly love my job in the Army and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that I am helping out my fellow Soldiers.
With that, I think of wars past and all that the people in my MOS (military job) had to do to accomplish their missions. It is hard to imagine not having a computer, a printer, and a scanner. It is even harder to imagine not having the internet. Though it is not the best connections and a lot of sites are blocked it still enables me to do some pretty amazing things.
In my job, I do many things that include typing memos and making spreadsheets. I look up regulations and information for just about everyone that has a question. I take the information that I accumulate and put it on a centrally located storage space and at times I am required to send information back to our armory at home. It usually only takes about 12 hours or less, because of time change, to get a reply or to have someone update records. This in itself is sometimes hard to believe. Like I said, I cannot imagine what the guys had to go through in previous wars.
In my family life I can and take full advantage of text messaging. I can instantly send my wife and daughters a text to tell them that I love them or to see how their day is going. I can send my wife an email with a lengthy letter and she can check it right on her Blackberry. This is amazing! I have set up email accounts for my daughters so that I can send them instant picture updates and letters of my “adventure” as I call it. They all have a phone with a camera on it, they can send me pictures of those moments that I would otherwise miss or they would have missed because of bulky cameras.
We are starting to get wireless internet access in some points. I can get on most pages like Facebook and the Waseca County News website. I can also get on Skype. Skype has allowed us to talk for many minutes without costing us a dime. It has enabled me to see my family and see how they are growing and changing. I also love access to the other sites because it makes me feel closer to home. It is great to see what is going on around town and to see what my friends and family are up to. I have reconnected with most of my High School classmates, friends from Basic Training, and even relatives that I have not talked to in years. All of this is from a war zone.
It is hard to be away from home. It is hard to see your family grow up through photos and emails. It does make it easier though with the great technology that we have in front of us. Sometimes we can get irritated with a cell phone ring or even take it for granted. I do however appreciate that we have these things to stay connected with home.
How about a trophy for the winner of the Blue Earth vs. Waseca Football game! The Little Brown Jug, The Old Oaken Bucket, Floyd of Rosedale, The Axe, are just a few legendary names of rivalry trophies, Waseca doesn't have any? Isn't it time? How about a Monster Bratwurst to the winner of the New Ulm vs Waseca wrestling match? Rivals are made not born, the most unique trophies just happen, but........
Waseca needs some passion: remember when you would never miss the basketball game at Fairmont? Remember the refs at Wells, you always went because it was fun and you knew that the game would be close! The South Central Conference has not lived up to the passion of many, teams are not dominating any more! The Waseca home crowds are friendly now not competitive, we want a win if it is ok with everyone, no passion! It shows on the floor, the mat, the field! The fun of competition is the reward of the fans, we need to compete hard but fair and gain the home court advantage BACK! Get out and be a fan again! A fan not only cheers for the home team but also appreciates the efforts of the competition, BUT we want a win! The reason the score is kept is not to see how close it ends, we need wins with hard play and excitement! The fun is in the hunt, teams use to want to beat Waseca on its home turf, lets make that difficult again! Good Luck in the Winter sport season athletes, give us a reason to cheer hard again!
Do you remember your doll house?
Were you given one for Christmas? Did you make one yourself out of a cardboard box? How creative you were! What stories did you make up and play? Was it about growing up? What did you dream about for your future? Did your dreams come true? How did your play-acting influence what you wanted for your life? Important questions not easily answered, but all fostered out of memories of childhood play with a doll house. What did your doll house mean to you?
Come and visit the Waseca County Museum (315 2nd Avenue N.E., Waseca) next weekend, December 5 and 6, 12 noon to 7 p.m. for “Christmas Night at the Museum, A Doll House Walk!” Wander through our 21 different, beautiful doll house exhibits of different architectural styles, representing different historical eras, with memories and stories to share. Share your memories, too!
We have hit a critical time in our deployment calculator. Thanksgiving!! It is known that many of us countdown to deployment, countdown to the time we get into our base, and the time we are leaving for home. The latter being the most important.
I try not to countdown the entire deployment, but take it in chunks. The first being my Rest & Recuperation (R&R) or vacation from here, the second Thanksgiving, third is Christmas and New Years, and last getting out of here. Another trick I learned was to count the weeks before the exact days, once we get into the single digit weeks I will switch to days. All of this is a key to staying positive.
Thanksgiving at FOB Leatherneck was way better than I expected. It is always tough being away from family, especially for significant events like Thanksgiving but the bond I have formed with people here made it a bit easier.
Our noon meal was like being at your favorite buffet. I could not say no to all of the food that was being handed to me. We had roast beef cut straight from the bone, roast turkey, ham, shrimp cocktail, sweet potatoes, corn on the cob, dressing, green beans, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, egg nog, ice cream, and much more!
After our meal we had a Battalion flag football tournament. Our company took second. It was a great way to end the afternoon and to end a pretty good Thanksgiving.
It’s Thanksgiving Day already, and though it’s a year that might seem that there was little to be thankful for, with the recession and all, I am very thankful for my life in Waseca County, Minnesota.
When I was a little girl living in the corner house on Wells and Weide Streets in St. Paul, I played dolls with my two friends, Sharon and Karen. We spent one whole summer making houses and businesses for our storybook dolls—out of discarded cardboard boxes, snippets of cloth, string, masking tape (Karen’s father worked for 3M), and any little junk from around our houses! We were not only playing house, we were playing town. Karen ran our general store. Sharon had a beauty parlor, and I made a little church. These were our essentials. I never dreamed then that I would grow up to live in a small town. But I wouldn’t trade my life in Waseca for anything. Now I live on Main Street (N. State Street) in a house that also has a flower shop, and I help manage the local history museum! This is what I realized this week as Thanksgiving was approaching, and this is just some of what I am grateful.
And while most of us will eat more than we need to on Thanksgiving Day, let us be grateful that we have enough to eat. I am always surprised when I hear about how many do not, and they are among us right here in our community. But then our community always come forward for the fundraisers--the generosity in our community is wonderful. So let us be thankful, let us be together, let us pray for peace, safety and wellness. Let us be positive and have hope. What are you grateful for?
Notice the name of Waseca School Board member Mike Gehloff and current Waseca Varsity Wrestling Coach Brad Lechner in this article from 25 years ago!
As a rule, a high school wrestling team that loses eight athletes to graduation faces a rebuilding year.
Time will tell for sure, but the 1984-85 Waseca Bluejays just might be an exception to the rule. The Bluejays, who went 9-3-1 last year while winning the South Central Conference dual-meet title, saw eight seniors graduate last spring -- or two thirds of the starting lineup.
The returning cast, however, gives reason for optimism.
The returning letter winners include senior Brad Lechner, who last year went 26-4 while placing fourth in the Class AA State Tournament. Mike Gehloff, 20-4 as a freshman, also returns, as do seniors James Hayes and Jon Reger. Last year's B-Squad, by the way, compiled a 16-2-2 record.
- 25 years ago, November 22, 1984, Waseca County News
Winter sports are here: Hockey, Wrestling, Basketball, and Gymnastics: get a schedule and get out and see the kids perform! Minnesota State, Mankato: Bethany Lutheran: Gustavus: St. Olaf: and Carlton College have great local kids as well!
I went to the Notre Dame vs. Navy game this past November 7th, fun stuff! I thought of the traditions, the legends, the enthusiasm, the crowds, the swagger of success, etc. I am impressed but the facts are ND doesn't win like the old days! A major problem when you have the swagger of Number One!
I have always been aware of the lore of the Four Horseman and the Seven Mules at Notre Dame! What I did not know is the famous Four Horseman were not large people, in fact none of the four were taller than 6' and no one weighed more than 162 pounds! Small in stature but larger in results and legend! The record for Notre Dame with the four Horseman in the back field was 28-2, two losses came at the hands of Nebraska! So, if you are normal, get out and participate, winners come in all sizes and shapes! Go Irish
Hello again from Afghanistan. Since the last time I wrote I have been home for a few weeks and am now back to my base. It was great to be home and see all of the changes that have happened with my family. It was sure great to be with my wife and kids for that time.
My wife is sure an awesome person and is doing an amazing job of keeping the family together and moving smoothly while I am gone. She is an inspiration and one of my heroes.
They often say that our families back home have it much harder than we do here and I believe that. She is doing the duty of both parents and is responsible for the two of us. She is going to school full time while getting three of our kids off to school. She is getting the kids to their after school activities as well as doing her homework. I am a lucky guy to have her. We recently celebrated our 5th Anniversary, this being the third one that I have missed due to deployments.
As I said I am back here in Afghanistan and trying to now get used to another climate change, this time the COLD! I know it is hard to believe that in the middle of a desert a person can be cold but it is. The nightly temp reaches around 45 degrees. I am the first to admit that just because I am from Minnesota I still think it is cold.
The Army has done a good job of issuing us some good cold weather gear, which I use with a big smile on my face. I was trying to think the other day whether I liked the cold more than the heat and after asking some of my buddies we agreed the cold was better.
As my mother taught me it is better to have on layers and take them off than not have enough and get sick. One improvement is that they hooked a hot water heater up to our showers! It is now a pleasure to take a shower.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
We can identify the men in this photograph, but what was “Auto Day” about 100 years ago?
Identified are Dr. Hagen, in his Buick; Dr. Batchelder driving a Ford; C.O. Gilbertson driving a Packard; Harold Sunde,a Rambler; Frank Kiesler in a Maxwell; A. N. Tyrholm driving his Ford; Dr. Batchelder's old high wheeler, blacksmith Adams driving; and A. J. Tyrholm, in an International.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and welcome to Widespread Panic,
While it seems rather counterintuitive I would have to say that we are should be remembered as one of the greatest periods in Waseca's history. While the sports scene had been phenomenal and the musicscene is great it is much bigger than that. What makes this time so great is that there is a groundswell of change that has overtaken our community. Some of it is normal constructive change, much more is the result of reacting to outside forces that have reshaped our world.
As I look around I see the institutions that have made this city our choice to live, work and play - the place we chose above all others, those core institutions are changing. Our employers, our schools, our churches, community organizations are remaking themselves to deal with the reality of 2009, but much more importantly they are preparing themselves to deal with the realities of 2010-2019.
I am excited most by those that are going additive changes - those institutions that are asking what is our mission, how do we accomplish it, what do we need to make it happen. Others are going about reductive change, what do I need to cut to get to my number. Both ways can be successful - but only one method moves the ball down the field. The truth is when you are at the bottom or at least a low point the cost of change goes down dramatically. There is no better time for a new hairdo then when your boyfriend just dumped you, no better time to start your own business than when you lose your job, no better time to learn how to swim than when you fall over the side of the boat. It would be great to take a snapshot of where we are today, a copy of the roadmap that folks are putting together to move themselves and us down the road and throw them in a time capsule for 20 years, I suspect they will clearly show this positive pivot in action.
Roy had a great column in last weeks paper about dealing with the tough issues facing us and he was right when he said that some will do the heavy lifting and others will stay home. My nominations for this weeks heavy lifters are Larry Thompson, Brooke Halla and Father Marty even if he did sing Iron Man when I asked for Freebird (...sorry for the inside joke). There are also many unsung heroes who are rebuilding there family budget at a fraction of what it used to be, there are those who are taking on a bigger load at work, and those who let another car out in front of them simply because they realize we are all in this together. Do what you can and take pride in the collaborative work that is being accomplished.
We all know that this Thanksgiving will be a little more introspective than most as we struggle with where we are or appreciate what we have just a little more because we understand that it is much more fleeting than we ever suspected. But I challenge you all to spend 5 minutes considering those long standing institutions in our community - our churches, our schools, our employers, our government our families. Remember how they have stood through much worse trials than this before and take solace in the fact that they are what have held us humans together, enriched our lives, shown us the path through the ages. Give them a plug as you bow your head before the turkey starts flying.
Well, I wish I had an awesome subject to interest everyone this time around, but my time's been drained for the most part, and I haven't had a chance to get out and do anything. This Wednesday I actually have some free time, so I am hoping to do a proper band review. I will also do more interviews in the future, because I got such a positive reaction with my piece on Jon Lucca. Is there any local act you'd like to hear more about? Feel free to comment or shoot me an e-mail.
This weekend at PJs Tavern, there isn't a whole lot of diversity, unfortunately. I'm not sure what is going on with them. Anyhow, they are having DJs mix up some dance favorites on Friday, November 20th, Saturday the 21st, and Wednesday the 25th.
If you're looking for some live entertainment, Katie O'Leary's is having the band Rush Hour on Friday night, and I Got Issues (IGI) on Saturday. I couldn't find any information on Rush Hour. I hear that IGI is pretty decent, but beyond that I still don't know much about them either.
Then at Club 57 they'll be showing UFC 106, the big fight between Oritz and Griffin. This event starts at 8:00p.m., not the usual 9:00, so if you want to go see a couple of guys beat each other up in glorious high definition, here's your opportunity. On Wednesday the 25th, TNT will be playing at Club 57. TNT is an AC/DC tribute band. I gave them a listen and I must admit that I appreciate the lead singer's effort. He does a better job than a lot of tribute vocalists I've heard, and they are not easy vocals to replicate.
And I know this may sound cheesy, but I am looking forward to the Christmas Train. I hear they'll have some live music and theatrics for the public to enjoy.
Waseca Girls Cross Country made waves this past season with the State Title! Wow! The pessimist would point out that the change in class made a big difference in the result: True in winning the team title but false in the fact that Waseca girls had a great team! 2008 team was close to making the AA state meet, this 2009 team was as good if not better and would have been close if not a AA State participant! Great team no matter the class! Congrats to the members /coaches/fans!
Did you know? Area individuals have made a name for themselves at the State C/C meet in the past. In 1970 Dan Lyndgaard won the title with a time of 15:11, he followed up the next season in 1971 with another victory in 15:34: Dan ran for New Richland and the titles came when all schools were in the same class! WOW! In 1974 Dave Tappe from New Richland finished second by less than 2 seconds in 15:23! The venue was 3 miles held at The U of M Golf Course! 1980 same location but now 5000 meters but Class AA, Wasecan Todd Moxley finished second in a time of 15:47! 1990 Shawn Schmidknecht of Waseca was second at 5000 meters in 16:40 Class A at U of M. Great sport with great coaches and individuals!
I was amused by Republican Governor Pawlenty’s recent suggestion that we amend the state constitution to prohibit any expenditure greater than the revenue collected in the previous year.
Like so many of his ideas, it sounds on the surface to be a reasonable idea – hold the line of spending. But on closer examination, you have to wonder how serious the Governor is about enacting this proposal – since it requires a vote of the legislature (now controlled by the Democrats) and then a vote of the electorate in the coming general election. Even if both of those obstacles are overcome, this policy would not take effect until after Pawlenty leaves office. Accordingly, I have a few questions for the Governor.
- If this is such a great idea, why didn’t you think of it eight years ago when you first took office?
- If this proposal is – as you stated – “consistent with your philosophy and results”- why is the projected budget deficit twice as large as the one you started with eight years ago?
- In your eight years in office, have you ever presented the legislature with a budget that held to the previous year’s tax revenue?
- Are you prepared to submit such a budget to the legislature this coming January?
- During your eight year tenure, when the legislature sent you spending measures that exceeded the previous year’s revenue, why didn’t you use your veto pen to cut those bills down to size?
- When you had a chance to “unallot” earlier this year, why did you shift roughly $2 billion in spending into the next budget year making it the next Governor’s problem?
Shouldn’t you instead have honestly cut spending by $2 billion?
- Because our tax revenues are closely tied to the economy, couldn’t this proposed policy actually lead to excessive revenue and higher spending in times of economic growth (as they say, beware of unintended consequences)?
- And, finally, this gimmicky idea – designed to make you “look” like a fiscal conservative – wouldn’t have anything to do with your presidential ambitions, would it?
While I have not been on Facebook in many months, I can't help but notice people habitually posting photos of me that are less than flattering. I would like to lay down a few ground rules....please only post pictures of me that meet the following criteria (note my profile photo)
1. I should look thin, therefore, utilize photos more than three years old (or) utilize photoshop, if you do not have Photoshop, find someone who does (or) do not post photo.
2. I should be dressed in a reasonably attractive outfit that does not make me appear to be expecting our 11th child. Notice that while camping, I wear anything that does not smell foul, therefore refer back to (1) where we discussed Photoshop.
3. I should not be making strange faces due to (a) eating something sour (b) talking to someone while you took my picture (c) concentrating on something. Strange faces typically are not easily remedied by Photoshop, therefore, ignore number (1) on this one.
4. I should be wearing make-up, I do not typically wear makeup while camping, which seems to be the only time anyone wants to take my picture, therefore refer back to (1) Photoshop.
5. The ideal photo of me (note profile photo) would be taken just after leaving the Juan Juan Eber (sp?) salon in Beverly Hills and posing with my friend Oscar. Notice the cute outfit (thanks mom) the cute sunglasses, the fabulous hair, and that I am wearing makeup.
I do realize it may be unfair that this is the only picture of me taken in the last five years that is acceptable to post (without Photoshop) and that it may be an unrealistic portrait of a woman with 10 kids, but aren't we all allowed our fantasies? Blessings! -DeAnna
The Internet is full of info if you really want to do research. Granted correct info in allows correct answers out! I have watched Waseca play many foes in years past, I liked playing Rochester, Mankato, Faribault, etc in all sports. Former Bluejay Coach Roger Stippel wanted Waseca to move to the Big Nine Conference so we could play the best in all sports on a consistent level. I admit I thought it to be a stretch but worth consideration.
Size of school determines which Class a school is in, therefore who your competition to go to State is based on numbers. Waseca Football played in Class 3A with 566 students according to the Minnesota State High School League website: Kasson Mantorville has 561: Blue Earth 355: Washburn 726: Belle Plaine 442: St. Peter 519: Fairmont 535: etc.
Waseca use to play 4A Football against Albert Lea 911: Austin 1044: Faribault 1064: Winona 1090: Northfield 1199: Red Wing 833!
I was impressed with KM Saturday night! Their speed and confidence was admirable and their execution was great! My brain says why are we playing KM and not the big schools? The numbers and my eyes show the answer, we belong in Class 3A and we need to get better to compete with the good ones! Fun season boys and Coaches: hit the weight room, start running, get better, and make it back to the FB State again next season, please!
From Waseca County Minnesota in the World War published by the “Waseca Radical,” May 1919
“German envoys signed the allied armistice terms at Senlis at 5 a.m., Paris time, which took effect at 11 a.m., Paris time (6 a.m. New York time). . . . President Wilson reads the terms of the German armistice to congress in joint session, and announces the end of the war. . . .
Thousands of American heavy guns fired the parting shot at the Germans at exactly 11 a.m. At many batteries the artillerists joined hands, forming a long line, as the lanyard of the final shot. There were a few seconds of silence as the shells shot thought the heavy mist. Then the gunners cheered. American flags were raised by the soldiers over their dugouts and guns and at the various headquarters. Individual groups unfurled the Stars and Stripes, shook hands and cheered.”
Welcome back to my second-hand interview with Jon Lucca from The Schmoejoes! The remainder of the interview has to do mostly with Waseca’s music scene. Since this was all recorded during the end of the interview, and a few drinks had been consumed, I had to sift from a lot of half-thoughts to get some full answers. I think you’ll enjoy what I have here, and I’ll follow it up with what’s going on this weekend, including a book exchange on Sunday at the request of the constant Waseca County News website commenter, onevoice. You’re welcome, onevoice!
So, to continue. My next question to Jon Lucca was to describe the fan base of The Schmoejoes, and their ideal fan base.
“The people who apparently best connect with us are teenage girls, and over 50 year old guys. That's kind of, really odd,” he laughed. He attributed their successful appeal to a variety of people by the fact that they don’t write songs that fit a single genre, but span their songs in a variety of styles. “The ideal fan base would be anyone who is tired of hearing the same old stuff all of the time,” Jon replied.
I asked him (my husband actually asked on my behalf, as I was sick, if you’ll recall) about what sort of feedback or criticism The Schmoejoes have gotten.
“People have not really criticized us that much. Oddly enough, it is my old band mates from The Lovejoys that are the first to dive on me about anything. That is actually why that band broke up, because we were three songwriters, three guys that could support a single band. My friend Pat is probably the most honest music-wise,” explained Jon intently. He continued, “I listen to every criticism. My wife — there are a few songs that she doesn’t like. I take her opinion very seriously. I always listen to her, but do I do what she tells me to do? No, not all the time.”
Then the topic turned to Southern Minnesota, and Waseca specifically. I wanted to know the difficulties that are presented to local acts, particularly those that write and play original music. My next question was about how local bands can go about promoting their music, and what The Schmoejoes do for promotion.
“As far as promo goes, I'm pretty lazy. I do as much internet promotion as possible. Twitter actually is probably the most useful one as far as the far-reaching promo,” he admitted. He went into how difficult band promotion is, with, “I’m not going to poster the town. There’s not that many places to put posters. Putting up fliers is exhausting, and there’s ordinances that prevent you from legally doing it. Doing promotion in Southern Minnesota is pretty terrible. There’s the Buzz, and they put the ads in, but as far as finding out what to do around town, there’s nothing.”
I wasn’t sure if I should resent that statement, but since my blog is rarely complete as far as covering everything that is going on, I decided that I couldn’t really take it as an insult.
The interview finally wrapped up with a question on how Waseca can help its local musicians.
“I feel like I’m part of the Waseca underground, and the Waseca overground are a bunch of people from out of town,” Jon lamented. “There’s a ton of music down here, but it’s so under appreciated.”
He described a powerful, musical bonding experience, saying, “I went over to Jerome Braten's house and payed an impromptu family jam, and it was the most beautiful thing that I've done musically in my life. I wanted to share it with everybody. There should be an outlet for that. But bar owners know that bands are not going to sell alcohol. Sometimes bar owners need to just look at what's in front of them and see what's here in town. Not all of it’s good, but some of it’s awesome.”
Jon finished with a moment of pride for his band, and their inherent originality and appeal.
“I’d put The Schmoejoes up against any cover band. I believe in the power of the ‘joes!”
So that’s it for Jon Lucca and our third-party interview. I hope you enjoyed it! Now, on to the weekend.
PJ’s Tavern is having a DJ both Friday, November 13th and Saturday the 14th. There will also be a dart tournament at PJ’s on Saturday, with sign-up at noon. The cost is $10 to join. At Club 57, Arrows at Dawn will be playing Friday night. Arrows at Dawn is an all-original band from Blooming Prairie. A quick listen brought me to the conclusion that they have a nice late 90’s sound, but little diversity in their chord progressions. Also at Club 57, Billy and the Bangers will play on Saturday. The most information I could find about them is that they play “classic blues with an edge.” Finally, on Saturday, The Fabulous Love Handles are going to play at Katie O’Leary’s. This band is gigantic (guitar, keyboard, saxophone, several harmony vocals, plus more) and they play covers from the 60’s onward. On their songlist there were not a whole lot of songs that I recognized, but I’d be interested to hear their version of “Whiter Shade of Pale.”
And to conclude, I am hosting a book exchange in the meeting room at Crossings Inn and Suites on Sunday, November 15th from 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. If you’ve never been to one before, they are a lot of fun. All you have to do is bring in books that you no longer want to keep, and trade them for books that interest you. I have a big box that I’ll be contributing personally, so you’ll be sure to find something. As I had to cover the ad in the Buzz on my own, I am not able to provide refreshments this time around, beyond the already-available coffee. Still, this is a great opportunity to get to know other book lovers in town and to recycle books, because if you’re like me, you can’t bring yourself to throw them away. All ages are welcome, and I’ll be bringing in a few children’s books. Tell your friends! I look forward to seeing you!
Sports and the venue it creates is a big deal in many small towns in our country! A good football team is about as good as it gets, I am of the old school who believes that a football team winning is the the real deal for a community: the fun, excitement, the pride is the best it can be! Everyone gets a chance to be part of it! The band, cheerleaders, individuals from the other fall sports teams, parents, alumni, even the bus driver is excited about playoffs and the potential trip to the big show! Great stuff isn't it?
This weekend get out and watch the Bucs and the Bluejays strut their stuff on the big stage! Waterville has been this level before, I know they have high expectations! Waseca is in new territory and I think hungry for recognition as one of the best ever in Waseca football! Good luck Coach Jon Bakken and Coach Brad Wendland! Enjoy the day with your squad and fans!
First off, I have to give a little insight into how I got this story. I
have been sick for the last week - so sick that I'm now taking vampire
antibiotics (as in, stay out of prolonged sunlight while taking these
pills). This, in turn, put a lot of pressure on my husband to take care of
the family. To relieve some of that pressure, he wanted to go out and
spend some time with his friend, and leader of The Schmoejoes, Jon Lucca.
So, in order to have something interesting for my blog, I sent some
questions with my husband so he could interview Lucca, which he did, and
recorded with his amazing iPhone. He brought me back approximately two
hours of conversation.
So what you're reading today is an incredibly stripped down, weeded
out version of that conversation, with the expletives either changed or
deleted. I wish I could sell copies of this on CD or something, because it
was a lot of fun to listen to. I actually have so much material, that I've
decided to cut this blog into two parts. So this is part one of the Jon
Lucca/Schmoejoes interview.
My initial area of interest was in the creation of the band name.
"I did not come up with the band name," Lucca clarified. "My friend
kind of has this weird dyslexia thing where he mixes up two different
phrases, and, he was like, "Why don‚t we call ourselves Joe Schmoe and the
Schmoejoes?‚ and we were like, That‚s it!‚ That was eighteen years ago.
Years later I moved down here and was like 'What should I call my band
now?' I always liked Joe Schmoe and the Schmoejoes, except that was way
too long, so, it was The Schmoejoes."
Next I asked him what he likes about playing shows in Waseca.
"I love playing Waseca. I do. It's odd, because I don't think I'd feel
as comfortable playing some random bar in some random town, but because I
live here I can feel the ownership of it. This is my town. Driving home
five blocks from here, that just rocks," Lucca illuminated.
I asked Jon where he liked to play in Waseca, and why.
"Barden's is the bar that reminds me of Northeast Minneapolis where I
spent my normative years. Barden's is so low key compared to other places
in town. You come here to drink, or you come here to talk. Everybody here
knows everybody else, but if you're the new guy, it doesn't matter. It's
totally loose." declared Lucca admiringly.
When asked to describe their sound, he replied, "I used to describe us
as getting drunk with Tiny Tim at Jimmy Page's neighbor's house. We're
sort of tongue-in-cheek pop. We're kind of like a cover band that plays
originals. If you appeal to someone's sense of familiarity, that's half
the battle right there. If you can give them something familiar, but
something new, that's the best of both worlds."
As a wife of a local band member, I know that bands like to network
and check out other local musicians. I asked him to name a few local acts
that he likes or dislikes.
"There is of course Paraphasia, which I love," he began, partially as
a shout out to my husband's band, since he was the one presenting the
questions. "There's the Arrows at Dawn guys, they're almost like Green
Day, or Foo Fighters meets Green Day. There was a band from Owatonna that
I dug called The Movies. I really liked the Gin Daddy's when they were
still together. Jason Madson did a few songs live with us at Lakefest.
Marcus Penny's band - I love them! Marcus is a good, down to earth guy. I
think he's phenomenally talented." And as for bands he doesn't like, he
continued, "I actually heard one song by the White Iron Band, which is a
terrible band name. It's kind of like a Toby Keith song, but it's about
Minnesota. It sounds like somebody singing about Tennessee, but it was
about Minnesota." He also described the song as "red-necky."
I should note (and Luca does in the interview) that all of the bands
he mentioned are mainly original artists. Stop by next week to see what
Jon Lucca of the Schmoejoes had to say about cover bands, other local
venues, and the lack of promotional opportunities. I may have to do a part
3, just to showcase the really bittersweet story behind their song
"Firefly."
With that, I'll continue on to the weekend. PJs Tavern is taking it
easy with a DJ both Friday, November 6th and Saturday, November 7th.
At Club 57, The Mason Dixons will be playing Saturday night at 9:30 p.m. The
Mason Dixons describe themselves as "country-rock that shakes the rafters
and then lets the dust settle with moving dancehall numbers." They play
"high energy country favorites and amazing originals."
Then at Katie O' Leary's, they're having 70's night on Friday. I'm told this is a fun theme
night, and since your only other option is a DJ, this looks like the event
to participate in. On Saturday they'll host The Murphy Brothers Band who will provide high energy rock. They're influenced by classic rock artists like Eric Clapton and Stevie Ray Vaughn, and if their videos are an indicator, they put on an awesome live show.
Thanks for reading, and look in next week as I continue with more
input from Jon Lucca of the Schmoejoes!
First off it is clear that my prognostication skills are sub-par at best, but anyone in my fantasy football league can attest to that. I did not see that level of turnout coming - I offer a huge round of applause to the citizens of the district for turning out in such huge numbers!
The huge buzz in the WCN comments section continued through the day - the level of involvement from both sides is another testament to citizenry of Waseca. Great thoughts, a few needles and already efforts being launched to deal with the new reality (or is it the same reality - just confirmed via vote?).
A couple of my thoughts:
I had a nice conversation with Cathy Hoy, while not excited about the outcome she is ready to go to work to make the schools function at the funding level we have. Her continued enthusiasm and drive will be crucial - I suspect that is true of the other board members as well. I shared my thought of the board teaming up with Waseca's finest community group to brainstorm and implement changes in the school system, I later had a chance to speak with the president of that group and he was enthusiastic to help and was going to take it to the board - I suspect that this will be HUGE for Waseca!
One asset that the district has that will be crucial is John Huttemier. I had a chance to talk with him for about an hour at a referendum meeting and was so impressed. He spent 90% of the time listening and processing - when he did speak his knowledge of education was very deep. He has innovative ideas, is a critical thinker and tremendous enthusiastic passion. I see him as having the ability to build the consensus necessary to implement the changes needed to deliver the same high level of education and services. So I lobby the board to place him in a position to lead this effort.
My Libertarian rant - While I support teachers unions and credentials I do not support unions being afforded greater rights than other employees to dictate how an operation works and am definitely against state mandated credentials. Given the groundswell of support from online commentors to donate money to the district I suspect that there is equal or greater willingness to donate time in the classroom, coaching and whatever else it takes to maintain the high level of excellence in Waseca schools. What prevents them? Union contracts, and credentialing malarky. So much talent turned away at the door because state and national legislators have bowed to special interests in the name of protecting the public. A fie on all of them. This town is filled with engineers and accountants that would love to teach a section of math. Lots of folks that would love to teach an art or shop class and might even be more qualified than the teachers on staff but are stymied by silly bureaucrats.
My Libertarian ray of hope - a few years ago I was seriously considering a Math Monkey franchise. I suspect that as the gap between the level of education demanded by parents and what is offered by the state grows the private education market will flourish. Hopefully to the point where the state gets out of the business all together. The private market is not just businesses it includes home schoolers, foreign language clubs, boy scouts, soccer leagues, as well as places like Creative Hands and so much more.
Back to the funding issue - had the state kept funding at same level or even increased it through increased property taxes (or other spending cuts) I wonder if Waseca residents would have been concerned with the level of funding to our district. It would still be our tax dollars, the increase would have just been disguised a little better. That is the nefarious nature of government the farther away they are the bolder they act and the less we scrutinize. Give us back the 9th and 10th amendment damn it.
The flip side of the coin if the referendum had passed and then Pawlenty's replacement restored funding in 2011 the district would have been in the catbird seat. My understanding is that while the referendum would allow the district to levy at $1300 per student that can levy below that amount. Perhaps that topic should have been explored addressed a little further - along the lines of "we may need $1300 in years 4-6 but we will cap the levy at $850 in years 1-3". I don't know that it would have swayed enough voters but it may have come across a little more in tune with the economy.
One more thought - the school district owns Trowbridge park. Clearly it is not essential the districts mission of educating students. What would be the community response to the district offering the park for sale? I see this as being very different from Maplewood, and even in line with the vote on the referendum. I doubt that the city is in the position to purchase it - and using tax dollars to purchase it would be an end run.
Well if you bothered to read all of this I thank you. I encourage you to share some feedback in the comments, let me know if I am a quack or if there is a topic you would like to start here. We are not bound by news worthiness, or subject - so if you want to talk poker, music, family, religon, swap Iowa jokes or just about anything else I am always up for it.
In advance of tomorrows vote I present the first (and last) non-annual Referendum Awards
Strategic Planning Award – goes to the school board for holding the big enchilada (6 years $1300 student) referendum in an off election year.
Best Sign Award – Joel Groebner
Best Advocate – Todd Zimmerman narrowly beats out Randy based on quantity.
Best Opponent – Dan Cunningham – He is also a lock for my citizen of the year award, nobody in Waseca has worked harder at bringing about change than Dan has.
Best online comment in favor of: neversaynever 10/28/09 “After reading and listening to many people express concerns on how to vote, I had to add my feelings. I worked in the construction idustry for over 17 years. When the economy crashed so did my job. After appx. 80 applications and resumes sent, I have realized without a good education even the smallest of employers wouldn't consider me. Strong school systems are the foundations for our children. Good education=good decissionssports=challenges=goals=successsame goes for all that is offered in our schools. Lets give our kids a chance. I will vote yes for great teachers to help guide my children to a better future. As far as my taxes, I guess my kids won't get a cell phone or go to the mall. I think if we all(most of us) look deep that 25 to 50 dollars can be found by just staying home and having a little family time once or twice a month.”
Best Online Comment against: leafturner 10/26/09
“Inflation around the corner or is it already here?”
“Our students will get a good education with or without the
referendum. IT'S THE LAW.”
“I am trying to close the zipper on my purse, but to many hands in the way taking my money out.
Thanks for making us spread the wealth that we never had.”
Levy Prediction: Passes by less than 8% - 2300 votes cast
Where will we be in 6 years prediction: State funding will be up 15% and levy request on the referendum will be $900 for 4 years
What categories did I miss? Was onevoice sunubbed? Your predictions?
Until 1973, senior citizens on Social Security received no automatic cost of living (COLA) increase. Prior to the creation of a COLA, Congress would decide whether (or not) to increase Social Security payments. Because Congress tended to get overly generous with increases (especially during election years), double-digit percentage increases were not uncommon. So, in some respects, offering an annual COLA – pegged to the inflation rate – was deemed to be better, fairer and cheaper.
Last year, due to the recession, the cost of living went down by 4 percent. Accordingly, seniors are slated to get no COLA increase this coming year. And, in fairness, they should not get one. Yet, President Obama and members of Congress seem intent on giving retired seniors a pay raise anyway. Congress is currently considering a flat $250 payment to every retiree (rich or poor). That payment will cost the federal government $13 billion (money the government does not have given our huge deficit).
Bear in mind that seniors did get a 5.8 percent increase last year – one of the largest COLAs ever paid. Social Security beneficiaries also received a tax rebate under the stimulus bill passed before President Bush left office. And, they were recipients of extra payments under the stimulus plan passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama last February.
Compared to most workers in America, seniors are faring pretty well in this recession. Ten percent of working age Americans are presently unemployed with another roughly ten percent are underemployed. Few, if any, workers received a pay raise last year and prospects for pay raises this year are doubtful. Yet, these workers will be required to foot the $13 billion bill for this payment to retirees – through taxes in the future to repay today’s deficit spending.
This should not be a complicated decision for Congress. First, American workers are getting no pay raise. In fairness, neither should retirees. Second, the budget is already heavily in the red. We should not unnecessarily add to that debt. Third, the COLA was created to protect seniors from inflationary costs and this year the cost of living decreased. As a result, no Social Security increase is warranted.
Still, I predict Congress will heed President Obama’s call for a $250 payment to seniors – with money we do not have – because it is the popular thing to do.
I'm actually rather envious of a lot of you this upcoming Halloween. There
is so much going on in town, so many reasons to dress up and go have fun,
and instead of being able to enjoy this time with all of you, I'll be at a
friend's wedding. Still fun, but I'll miss being able to wear a proper
costume.
Katie O'Leary's is going to start the party early, and will have the band
Side F/X playing on Friday, October 30th. There will be a costume party
with prizes, so be sure to wear your most creative costume! They're the
only place in town that will be having costume contests on Friday and
Saturday, so if you're going trick-or-treating with the kids on Halloween,
you still have an opportunity to go out with your friends. Also on Friday,
PJs Tavern is going to have their "DJ at PJs" night, and the band Dr.
Salty will be playing at Club 57. Dr. Salty touts themselves as an
"American Rock & Roll Band" and they actually play (mostly) original
songs. The vocalist is clear and pleasant, and the music has a good beat.
They have a classic, maybe Aerosmith-esque sound.
On to Saturday, October 31st, which we all affectionately know as
Halloween. Frankie's Boys will be playing at Katie O'Leary's, and they
will be having another costume contest, with prizes! I hear that Frankie's
Boys play bluegrass/blues, and are a local favorite. I have yet to hear
them, but I'm interested. Also on Saturday is PJs Halloween Bash at PJs
Tavern with DJ Screammin' Productions and a costume contest with CASH
PRIZES, their website declares. Finally Club 57 will be hosting their
Halloween party (Costumes? Prizes? Their website doesn't say, but I'd
assume as much) and the band 6 Wheel Drive will be playing. They describe
themselves as "modern country rock," which to me does not sound all that
promising. Then seeing that they cover artists like Keith Urban and Little
Big Town made me lose interest completely. Still, I thought I would take a
listen to some of their tunes, and clicked on their myspace link.
Unfortunately, there were no tracks uploaded. So you'll have to use your
best judgment and imagination on that one.
Also on Saturday, the Schmoejoes will be playing at Barden's Bar. Their
website claims that they will be having "Spooky Shot specials, and
Terrifying Tap beer." Barden's has a costume contest as well, and they say
that their prizes are the best in town, but without knowing what those
are, how can we tell? I guess we just have to take their word for it.
Still, it's good to support the Schmoejoe's as they are an exciting,
local, original band. They have a great stage presence, and their banter
with the crowd is witty and original.
Thanks to everyone who has given me feedback and kept in contact with me,
so I can keep my updates as info-filled and accurate as possible!
One last question for you: What costume will you be wearing this weekend?
If I were able to, I'd be dressed as Alice from the game Shadow Hearts. If
you don't know what that is, feel free to do a google "image" search and
you'll see what I mean. So what/who will you be for Halloween?
Remember when Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer lyric said, “You’ll go down in his-tor-y!” Didn’t that sound strange to us as children, what did it mean? Well, in the history business it means you only have to live here to be part of the history of a place. You don’t have to be famous, or infamous, or have accomplished great feats to be part of Waseca County’s history. But what is the evidence of your existence? Think about your photographs, stories, objects and documents. How do we remember what happens in this place called Waseca County, if the stories aren’t written down or recorded, the facts aren’t verified, the photographs not taken, the information isn’t made available to our children’s children, and their grandchildren’s grandchildren? My point is--care about the history of your place in time, here in Waseca County, and all the parts of it—the towns, the farms, the townships, the businesses, the organizations, the objects, the stories, and especially the people. It’s all information and it’s all going to be history . . . some day. Care about it now.
Are you paying too much for ............. This is a question asked about everything these days! When it is tourney time , cost go out the window when you continue to win!
Teams are excited to get to the playoffs and each win bring more excitement for the coaches, fans and families! I notice over the years that success takes the sting out of the dollars spent in the off season for lessons or clinics, the extra gas and meals as we follow our team, the extra pasta party, the extra racquet stringing, the warmer jacket and gloves, the hotel room at STATE!
We all love a winner! The coach gets smarter, the cheerleaders are prettier, the team has more unity, and the parents actually start to like each other! Playoffs and winning are great, Good Luck to all this fall 2009 season! I hope we all go to State and win!
I normally avoid being a cut and paste type contributor but sometimes the words of another are so spot on that they bear repeating – in this case I feel this article is worth repeating in its entirety.
The reason this article seems important to me is that healthcare and education are both on the same treacherous path – in so many places you can replace the term healthcare with education and the statement rings just as true. So do I advocate privatization of education? 100%! You should never be forced via taxation to pay to educate my children. I choose to have children and thereby accept the responsibility to pay for them. While that is an easy academic conclusion to come to we are stuck with our decidedly non-academic real world where you do pay for my children’s education (not really, they attend Sacred Heart…but they will graduate into the Public School System), and I pay for yours. So until we break free from socialized education we still have a responsibility to make it the best that we can. To that end I support the referendum and the opportunity it brings for reform
STEWART W. PETERSON, what a great guy! Stew was an original! A lineman in college, Stew had the idea that life was fun and should be lived to the fullest!
My first experience with Stew was in summer baseball: the Sacred Heart guys were always told by the Public school guys that we were not good enough to play sports with them! We knew better and Stew knew better! Stew made sure the SH guys were on the VFW baseball squad, he knew we would make the team better and also we deserved the opportunity!
I never forgot Stew for that, he had remained a friend of mine for the 40 plus years since those baseball days!
God Bless Joe Lynch , Stew Peterson, Lee Storby, Manny Beckmann, John Bendix, Dean Means , Paul Andrejewski, Roger Nelson, Tony Sybilrud, and Jack Murphy: these were Public School guys or summer baseball guys who treated the big kid from Sacred Heart with class! Thanks!
I wonder if there are any venues in Waseca, or in Waseca County for that
matter, that would be willing to have an open mic night. Would you attend?
Would you have something to offer? What if it started, say, 7:00p.m. and
went to 10:00p.m., with a half-hour time limit for each person who signs
up. That's a limit of six people per night, doing what they love to do,
with plenty of time afterward for drinks and chatter. Just an idea - feel
free to post your ideas in the handy comment box below.
Now, on to the weekend. On the night of Friday, October 23rd there's a DJ
playing at PJs Tavern, and Club 57 will be hosting the band Good for Gary.
A peek at their myspace page revealed another Twin Cities cover band. They
are pretty well organized, with a nice variety of tunes. One thing made me
particularly happy - the fact that they specifically posted "We don't do
Nickelback." But then, I was saddened again by the appearance of All
American Rejects in their song list. Oh well, you can't win them all. They
have an entertaining cover of "Pinball Number Count" on their myspace
page. You remember that song, don't you? From Sesame Street? Sing with me,
"One-two-three-FOUR FIVE, six-seven-eight-NINE TEN, ELEVEN TWELVE!" That
may just be enough reason for me to see this band, All American Rejects
covers aside.
Then on Saturday, October 24th, PJs and Club 57 switch off again. A DJ
will be mixing up some tunes at Club 57, and at PJ's Tavern you can go
listen to more live covers from The Foolish Mortals. They are not, as one
would assume from their band name, a strictly metal cover band. Their song
list includes a plethora of singles from the 50's onward, songs that we
all know the lyrics to, but I have to question some of the choices again.
My Sharona? Really? I listened to the sampler available on their myspace
page and wasn't too impressed with what they had to offer, but it could
just be that the recording quality wasn't very good. The lead vocalist
grated on me, I'm sorry to say.
That is all that I was able to find for this weekend. There is a live band
playing at Katie O'Leary's on Friday night, but their name is not posted
on the Katie's website, and I don't have time to run by and look at the
poster on the door before I submit this blog. I'll put it up in the
comments as soon as I can.
Cheers everyone! I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone has to offer
Halloween weekend! It should be a nice mix of music, contests, prizes, and
specials!
Shane Streich won the SCC Cross Country title this past week as a 7th grader, Micci O'Grady did the same in 1984 as a 8th grader and the Coach is the same guy? 25 years ago the area was amazed at a young Waseca runner, many have the same feeling today! Good luck to all athletes this week, no matter the sport!
1984/ O'Grady becomes youngest-ever SCC champ
On a scale of one to 10, Mici O'Grady has been a 10.
O'Grady, Waseca's eighth-grade running wonder, won her 10th race without a loss on Thursday, becoming the youngest Wasecan ever to win the South Central Conference cross country championship [or any SCC conference title].
"Mici was certainly the heavy favorite going into the race," coach Gary Meurer said. "And she went out and showed everyone they were right."
O'Grady, running with a bothersome back on a hazy Fairmont Country Club course, battled early with runner-up Beth Hoffman of St. James before opening a big lead and winning going away. O'Grady clocked 11:30, Hoffman 11:48.
- 25 years ago, October 16, 1984, Waseca County News
Well, it’s October and we’re watching baseball play-offs without the Twins—there’s always next year; but here’s a little Waseca baseball history about a winning team:
EACO’S 1901 winning baseball team
Waseca's famous baseball team of 1900 and 1901 was sponsored by the EACO Flour Mill (Everett & Aughenbaugh Mill). W. J. Armstrong (who built and operated the Southern Minnesota Grocery warehouse, now the Miller-Armstrong building) was their manager, R.P. Ward, president and L.W. Sterling, treasurer. They won the state amateur championship!
Fifty-seven games were played that season and they lost only fifteen. They players were Bob Foote (catcher), Theodore Snyder (right field), Bill Joiner (short stop), C.R. Wattles (first base), S. Foster (left field), Bob Mackey (third base), William Foster (center field), W. J. Armstrong (manager), William Vernon (second base), William Brisbane (pitcher) and Ed Woods (pitcher). They played the best clubs in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin, and even journeyed to Chicago to play the Flandreau Indians and the Chicago Marquettes. In 1901 the team reached the peak of its fame, winning the amateur titles in Minnesota, Iowa and South Dakota.
Rivalry between Waseca and Litchfield that year made the State Championship Series the greatest attraction before or since. The owner of the Lexington Park in St.Paul was offered a percentage to host the game there. He refused because he said he couldn't afford to pay the ushers out of what the gate would bring. So Waseca and Litchfield rented the grounds for a flat $50 to the everlasting sorrow of the St. Paul management. Special trains were run and the game drew over 10,000 people! And best of all, Waseca won the game by a score of 9-2!
I know the St. Louis Rams of the NFL are struggling this season: did you know they have 4 Minnesota guys on their roster? Minnesota FB is soft huh? James Laurinaitis from Wayzata, Adam Goldberg from Edina, Mark Setterstrom from Northfield, and Craig Dahl from Mankato East are the Minnesota born players! Just think Waseca played against Setterstrom and Dahl in the sporting season, they made it big so can you!
College rosters are sprinkled with Waseca area athletes in all sports! I know the Northern Sun and MIAC conferences have people on their rosters in many of the sports whether fall ,winter or spring seasons. How about Rick Jeddeloh coaching basketball at Bethany College, Mike Wobshall writing for Vikings .com, Phil Driscoll Jr. works for the Gophers in management of the FB stadium, Williams arena, and Hockey facilities, Eric Overland is one of the strength coaches for Notre Dame, there are many more people dreaming big in athletics!
So HS athletes in Waseca Area, DREAM BIG and work hard to excel! You will have fun and enjoyment beyond your wildest dreams! Good Luck!
This last week in Afghanistan has been one of sadness and time of reflection. We started out our week with news that we lost one of our fellow brothers. I say brother because after experiences like this you all form a special bond. It amazes me that a group of people from all over the state and some from other states, can come together and become so close. That is one of the main reasons I love the military.
We all joined together and have been looking out for each other. We have all reflected on what is important to us and all seem to have a different outlook on what it is we are doing here. Our memorial service for SPC George Cauley was a great tribute to his service and to the spirit of what kind of person he was. It was a time to remember what he did to defend freedom for his country and people from other countries. I thought about what he did for me and my family and how I will teach my kids that he is a true American hero.
After the service we had a grill out. I brought the ladder golf game that my mom had sent and few guys brought their bean bag board game. Other activities included cribbage, Frisbee, touch football, and some good old socializing. It was a great time to decompress and be with people.
We started our day today by being presented with our “combat patch”. This is a tradition that has been around since the Revolutionary War, started by General George Washington. The Army is the only branch that is authorized to wear a patch on their right sleeve and our unit is the first ones to be authorized to wear our particular patch. (I like history) We were also able to promote some well deserving Soldiers. Again it was nice to be together, to go through an experience with a group of people.
Deployments are hard on a Soldier, their family, their friends, and even the community especially when there is a loss. After the events of this last week I understand a little more about what it means to be in the military. Although many of our experiences are different and we have had different things happen, I know that when I meet someone that has served I always have a friend and something to talk about. There are so many interesting stories out there, I encourage anyone to sit and listen to a Veteran tell them.
After all of this reflection a great thing did happen today. The people from the Outback Steakhouse and Bonefish Grill came to our camp and cooked us one of the most delicious meals that I have eaten since I left the States. It is amazing what one event can do to change the morale of the troops. Everyone in the chow hall was full of smiles and talking about how awesome it was that they did that for us.
This morning, I got up at 4 AM. This afternoon, I decided to take a nap with my children. It was wonderful. Except the part where my four year old got up before me. I know, you are thinking he made some terrible mess. Nope. But he was kind enough to answer the door for a salesperson, since mommy was in bed, he was thoughtful enough to bring the business representative right upstairs into my bedroom. I thought that might be the strangest thing I have woken up to (a stranger in my bedroom with me and my son) a bit awkward as well.
This got me thinking, for all the times my children say I have embarrassed them, I have never been so embarrassed in my life as I have since becoming a mom. Thought it might be fun to cover some of these, and I would love to hear your red-faced stories as well. I will do my best to protect my children's identity, (or those of their friends) but for those of you who know some of my children, identification could come easily......
When one of my children was 3, we were visiting Grandma, who lived quite a ways away. She alway gave the children a juice box or soda as we left "for the road" as my daughter was given her sugary beverage by her grandmother, my daughter said "can Daddy have a beer for the road, Grandma?"
Same daughter, fast forward six years. She fell of her bike. Her wrist hurt, but not terribly, not a lot of swelling. I explained to her since it was late afternoon, we would keep an eye on it and see if she should see the Dr in the morning. She did go in the morning, and had a broken wrist. Of course, everyone wanted to know when she broke it. She politely informed them "I broke it on Wednesday, but Mom didn't take me to the doctor until Thursday."
One of my older daughters continued to hear me tell the little ones that the crab apples from the tree in the back yard would make them sick. This older daughter was babysitting her then two-year-old brother. She found he had consumed a crab apple. Apparently not realizing by "sick" I meant tummy ache, she proceeded to do what any responsible babysitter would do, she dialed 9-1-1.
My children say the way I dress embarrasses them. Apparently they have short term memory problems. One of my older sons went one entire year of preschool wearing nothing but Superman pajamas, day and night, complete with velcro-on cape.
Some of my daughters (when they were small) insisted that dance costumes left over from recitals DID count as clothing, and wore them everywhere.
One of my younger daughters used to chronically answer the door naked, this was how I met one of our neighbors for the first time when we moved in, as well as how she once greeted the pastor when he stopped by. Need I say more? Another daughter TODAY left the house in a denim skirt, petticoat and striped tights, and she is NOT five. I embarrass them? I just don't think I can compete with this!
While I could go on for days on this topic regarding my own children, there have been some fun ones lately with my children's friends as well.....
One of my favorites, one of my older daughters called from a freinds house. They were cooking and her friend had cut her hand. They wanted to know what to do. I walked them through some basic first aid and asked when the friend's parents would be home. The girls sweetly informed me they wouldn't be home for a while as they were "at the bar". (Turns out they are in a card group that MEETS at a bar.)
Last week I was watching a friend's children. As pre-teens will, they eat a lot. They did make sure I understood though, that it was due to the fact that all of the food in their house is expired. (I knew this not to be true, of course, one of my children had babysat them the night before, and they had found ONE expired food item.)
I certainly have learned over the years that children take things out of context. I do now get to giggle when my children's friends say such things, but I DO worry about what my kids say when they are at their friends houses!
Please do send me your finest "Mommy Moments" I would love to hear them!
While this seems like a fundamentally simple concept, apparently very few places in our little town are able to offer it. Apparently El Molino is a favorite, and I have to agree. It is nice to walk in, sit down, and immediately have complimentary chips and salsa placed on the table in front of you. Orders are filled quickly, the food is good, and drinks are refilled before you even have the chance to ask for it. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the mood is relaxed. So why do other venues seem to struggle in meeting these same standards?
My guess would be the economy. These difficult economic times have forced places to cut back on staff, on how long they're open and on what days, on paid training. The uneasiness of business owners have also cultivated an uneasiness in the staff, which is then passed on to the customer. The customers leave, the business owners panic and raise prices, and sometimes even charge staff for things that were once free (like coffee and doughnuts), and as a result, the talented staff leave, and the customers either have to deal with raised prices and poor staff, or, like so many of us do, go elsewhere. This is mostly speculation, but some of it I have seen first hand. It seems like Waseca businesses, particularly those that deal in entertainment, are spiraling downward.
There are things that I would like to see here in town, and I think they would be easy enough to pull off. I believe what we are lacking entertainment-wise is variety. I would like to see poetry readings, live musicians with something new to offer, and most of all, live theater. The
problem becomes finding a venue where different artists can perform. The community auditorium is too full of school activities for the odd community theater troop to compete, and the outdoor stages are only useful in the summer months. Waseca could really use its own specific place for members of the community to express themselves. Minnesota is one of the
highest arts-centered states in the country, with Minneapolis ranking in the top ten, so why do we have so little available for our own community?
Why should I have to drive to Mankato or Northfield to share my latest short story or poem? Why does my husband's band make $100 a night in Minneapolis, but can't find a place to play here? Why, when Waseca loves its marching classic and celebrates Leroy Shield at every opportunity?
Well, enough of that. I hope someone with the means to create a place that artists of all kinds can congregate will read this and think its a good idea, because this is what I'd like to see in our community.
So, on to the weekend. Since everything seems to start at 9:00p.m., I'm not going to clutter up my blog with stating when bands are playing anymore. Friday the 16th has a DJ at Katie O'Leary's, Bad Habits at PJs Tavern (I couldn't find any information on this band, sorry), and Dazy Head Mazy at Club 57. Dazy Head Mazy is a pop band with a lot of commercial and radio appeal. My husband said when I mentioned them "Hey, I know them - I've seen them in the City Pages since I was a teenager." They offer simple tunes with catchy lyrics,which are mostly acoustic. They remind me of Dave Matthews or Hootie and the Blowfish, and are definitely worth a listen if you like that early 90‚s, Cities 97 sound.
Then we've got Saturday, October 17th. The Tex Pistols Band are playing at Katie O'Leary's (not to be confused with Tex Pistols, which is a different band, as I discovered upon my Google search). They seem to have a pretty high ego, claiming that their "Fully Loaded" album as "one the most talked about recordings in the Twin Cities in years." Note - just because an album is "talked about" doesn't mean the talk is all good. A listen to some of the tracks showed the same tired country chords and slide guitar that you always hear when you turn on the radio, with nothing really new to offer.
I also find their "Come see the Tex Pistols, or the drummer gets it" picture childish and off-putting. Still, they seem to pull a bit of weight here in Waseca, but I can't imagine how they'd appeal to anyone under 50. My apologies to their faithful fans, and bless this band for
having a real website, not just a Myspace or Facebook page.
Also playing on Saturday is the band 69 Cents, and they'll be at Club 57. They are a cover/party band that are popular for playing a wide variety of genres, as well as requests from the audience. They were once voted "Favorite Local Band" in the Mankato Free Press Reader's Choice Awards. Pictures of them reveal an exciting, high-energy stage presence.
Finally, at PJs Tavern, DJ Kozy will be throwing out his hits Saturday night. If you don't know Kozy, then you haven't really been introduced to the Waseca music scene. He has a lot to say about all of it, and a lot to offer. Stop in at Waseca Music Company and chat with him if you have the time, he's an entertaining guy.
I hope you all have a fantastic weekend. Keep out of the rain and/or snow, and enjoy the last little bits of fall we have before we're engulfed in Minnesota winter.
Blogger Jenny Hughes can be reached at thejuniperjourney@hotmail.com.
October is a magic month in HS sports: the last regular season events are here, some have started or will start playoffs soon! Girls tennis will pick state tourney team entrants this week, Thursday is a big day for No. One seed Waseca girls at the friendly confines of the Gutavus Tennis Bubble!
Waseca use to own that place with many great victories and great individual efforts! State tourney individuals will be picked next week!
Football goes into the traditional Wednesday game with MEA weekend, next weeks game will be the last regular season : then seeding for the playoffs! Volleyball is approaching the last games and Cross Country has the conference meets this week!
Area teams want to be healthy and playing at their best this time of the year; conference titles are great but the chance to advance to the state tourney is the real deal! Good luck to all area teams and give it a little extra to achieve greatness! Communities always remember the teams that made it to state! Be one of those memories!
I think I’m on board with what is probably a universally accepted belief in America this week: President Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize was premature, possibly even undeserved. I’m not on board, however, with those who would tout this as an embarrassment for the president. If anything, it’s an embarrassment for the Nobel committee, because of their puzzling choice, and Obama is essentially a bystander.
An embarrassment is that our previous president had eight full years to earn himself a Peace Prize and couldn’t do it. He wasn’t prematurely awarded such recognition, but he did prematurely declare an end to major combat in Iraq. That was in 2003.
When our current president is considering a troop increase in Afghanistan, 8 years into the war, he’s not a peacemaker. When he gives speeches on the national stage, reaching out to those with whom our relationship has been strained it’s commendable, but it ain’t peace. When he’s got 3 years (maybe 7) to screw things up, it’s not time to dole out the Peace Prize.
At the same time, you can’t blame Obama. He didn’t lobby for this. He was probably more surprised than anyone to have gotten it! His critics will argue that he’s being recognized by a group of wimpy Europeans who have just bought into Obama-mania. Here in America, though, it’s safe to say the honeymoon is over. The Obama aura is pretty much gone, and we’re back to scratching each other’s eyes out. If Europe still has a crush on him, honestly, who cares? It could be worse (see: the past 8 years).
I think our president has the potential to achieve meaningful peace. He just hasn’t done it yet. After all, he’s still the new guy.
In the end, I think Obama’s undeserved win last Friday is less consequential than the Yankees’ undeserved win! I, personally, have spent more time agonizing over the fact that The Dark Knight didn’t receive the Best Picture nomination (and win) that it did deserve, than I care to spend on the Peace Prize our president got and didn’t deserve.
There’s my two cents
Marcus
I suggested the Nobel Peace Prize as a topic thinking that Marcus and I might have differing views. Evidently, not. But let me elaborate anyway.
The following is a listing of some of the previous Peace Prize recipients:
President Theodore Roosevelt for brokering a peace agreement between Japan and Russia.
President Woodrow Wilson for the Versailles Treaty after WWI and for promoting the League of Nations.
General George C. Marshall for efforts to rebuild war torn Europe after WWII (the Marshall Plan).
Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. for leading the American Civil Rights movement.
Dr. Norman Borlaug (University of Minnesota) for crop research that led to the “green revolution” in developing nations.
Secretary of State Henry Kissinger for negotiating a peace treaty with Vietnam.
Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin for reaching the first treaty between an Arab nation and Israel.
Lech Walesa for organizing and leading a workers union and advancing democratic reforms in communist-controlled Poland. Remember “solidarnosc?”
President Mikhail Gorbachev for instituting “glasnost” and “perestroika” – democratic reforms in the former Soviet Union.
Nelson Mandela for leading reconciliation after years of apartheid in South Africa.
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat for beginning the process toward peace between Israel and the Palestinian people.
President Barrack Obama. For what?
To borrow a phrase from the children’s program Sesame Street, “One of these names doesn’t belong with the others.”
Last week WCHS was host to regional ghost hunter, Kathy Machowski. We were contacted by Machowski last summer. She was initially interested in investigating the Bailey-Lewer House, our research library located across the street from the museum. We visited her webpage, “Minnesota’s Beyond the Veil” and read testimonials of other cases she investigated. We thought it would be advantageous to investigate a building known for mysterious activity--the Waseca County Courthouse was the obvious choice. With permission and an escort, we met for the investigation. It was a lovely Saturday afternoon (not a dark and stormy night). The team of five consisted of Kathy, a nurse from Albertville, MN, a psychic from Owatonna, a courthouse employee, and myself. The first thing Kathy did when we entered was take pictures of the area where we were setting up. The equipment used was an infrared camera, digital cameras, digital sound recorders and a set of divining rods. Kathy continued taking pictures in the lower level hall. We were handed digital recorders and the others digital cameras. We explored all floors, courtroom, waiting rooms, vaults and hallways--even the bell tower. The investigation took approximately three hours. For those of us new to the experience--let’s say we weren’t introduced to anyone or anything thought to have gone before us. We felt, heard, smelled and saw absolutely nothing.
The next day Kathy contacted me with some interesting data. That data was presented last Wednesday evening. Captured were electronic voice phenomena (EVPs), and three images. Using audio software, Kathy played the recorded voices. We were instructed to talk normally during the investigation, not whisper. The voices she presented were imbedded in our conversations. The images were--a mist, several turned chairs in the courtroom, and a face in the glass of a door. H-m-m-m. Seeing and hearing is believing, I guess. After the presentation the audience was invited to the Bailey-Lewer House. Guests explored the premises with their cameras and her equipment as well. It was loud and crowded. The brief investigation yielded no results, which is fine with me. We did, however, hear many stories from our visitors. We have a “Ghost File” in the library, and we welcome additions. Kathy offers classes in “ghost hunting.” She can be contacted through her website, just Google “Minnesota’s Beyond the Veil”. I have asked Kathy to post the results so all can see and hear. What paranormal experiences have you had? Will you share?
Last week I attended a couple events in the area. I helped out at the Waseca Cross Country meet at Lakeside Golf course on Thursday, nice crowd of fans on a very nice Minnesota fall day! Saw many of the area schools run, saw familiar faces from other schools enjoying the competition. Over the years some people just attend for the fun of it, they are fans! I am one of them!
I attended the Bluejay FB game Friday night, I expected a blowout but saw a massacre! Brutal game for the Jimmies: I counted 32 freshman and sophomores on the roster with a real lack of size and ability! The Bluejays came out smokin' and dominated on both sides of the ball! I always stand on the visitors sideline and visit with the opposition fans, they were stunned by the lopsided score and wanted to retire for the night early in the 2nd half! Very small crowd from Waseca at the game, where were you?
Saturday I went to the Gopher game: had breakfast on campus, saw Goldy Gopher, Joe Maturi without a warm jacket, shook hands with the U of M President Brunick, watched the team parade into the stadium surrounded by a few hundred fans, lots of sun and a big wind from the NW, visited with former great Bobby Bell, and then went to Stubb and Herbs restaurant and watched the first half: it was great! We left at half time jumped on the free shuttle back to our $10 parking spot on west bank and visited with hundreds of frozen Gophers fans! We drove home listening to the second half of a Gopher victory on the radio!
So, you think sports are taking the majority of you social life now? What about the article below from 1959? It my be popular to be a soccer Mom now days: I wonder how many parents in the Waseca of 1959 would believe all the action in 2009?
1959/ School Board Members Feel Athletics at Central Being Overstressed; May Cut Back
Members of the District 829 school board indicated Tuesday night that they would take some action in the future regarding what was termed "the overstressing of athletics" at Central high school.
It was pointed out that this condition exists not only at Central but at all schools in the state and that Central officials have to "go along" with the trend.
The matter came up at the regular school board meeting held Tuesday night at Central. The action is likely to take the form of a suggestion to the meeting of the District School Board Association, that the entire conference cut back its athletic schedule.
- 50 years ago, September 16, 1959, Waseca Journal
Congratulations to Larry on being chosen for the open Council seat. He was a great person to work with while I served with him and will be a great advocate for Ward 1, business owners and fiscal conservatives. I admire his knowledge, savvy and communication skills. And for those who conjectured that this will bring about a new era of water skiing on Loon Lake I suspect that you have not really paid that close of attention to how Larry works on the council.
Thank you to all who wished me well and supported me. I appreciate your support and am glad that I was able to earn your trust. A couple of people have given me the "sorry that you lost" speech and while I appreciate the consideration I really don't feel bad about not being chosen. Sure I would be happier to have been selected but I did not run to win or to beat Larry, I ran because it is something I enjoy doing. You never feel bad for a fellow who went fishing all day and didn't catch anything. He spent his day doing what he loved. Win, lose or draw I enjoyed being part of the political process. There will be many more opportunities, whether it be attending rallies, writing a blog or running for office at some other time.
On to other items - Clear Lake - Gaiter Lake diversion project. I wish the council wisdom on the process. I think that if the project would have moved at a normal speed when it was introduced several years back it would have passed and been implemented with strong support. Any project that sits on the table for too long begins to die for lack of momentum, that has nothing to do with the merits of the project just a fact of political life. For a much more dramatic example see the financial regulation overhaul bill that looked inevitable in the face of the crisis but is all but dead in the water now.
Health care reform - see here for the implications of earning money under the Baucus bill. In a nutshell for a family at the poverty line there is almost no incentive to make more money as the reduction in benefits and tax breaks takes 70 cents of each additional dollar you make.
Have you been following the Pvt Hafterson ordeal? A young Marine from Minnesota deserted his unit claiming post traumatic stress disorder from the atrocities he saw in the war. He was then taken into custody by the Marine Corps, the latest is that he never experienced the horrors that he claimed caused the PTSD. It has been an amazing trip through what war can do to a person. A firm salute to all the folks serving (and backing them up from home) and salute to all those trying to bring them home. 8 years in Afghanistan and still so much to be done.
But hey - Obama has won the Nobel Peace prize! I am sure that it is because he ended the two wars we are in...eh?...whats that?...still going strong in both?...expanding one of them?...okay, it must be for closing Gitmo...oh, not quite done with that yet...what do you mean he has not even started yet?...okay it is because he is backing away from Bush's bellicose nature...oh, I see he is sabre rattling with Iran again. Why not give him the Nobel prize for medicine and economics as well?
I've decided to make a quick change for this week, just to do something
more fun and interactive. As much as I love to throw out my opinions and
impressions on the local "scene," thus far I haven't had much feedback on
what you, the readers, think about entertainment in Waseca. Feel free to
give me a general overview, or you can answer one or more of the following
questions. Please don't be afraid of being honest. Higher-ups may find
your input helpful. I'll give my own thoughts next week, just so you all
can compare. So here are a few questions you can think about:
What is your favorite venue in Waseca County to visit, and why?
What venue(s) do you generally avoid, and why?
What sort of live bands/DJs do you like most?
What other kinds of entertainment would best benefit this area?
Is there a venue or band that you would like me to further look into?
I look forward to reading your responses, and seeing how they compare with
my own.
Now, I'm not sure if PJs Tavern and Club 57 talk, or if they just sort of
pay attention to one another, because they alternate their DJs and live
music almost flawlessly. Club 57 will host their DJ on Friday, October 9th
at 9:00p.m., and PJs has their DJ on Saturday, October 10th at 9:00p.m.
Coincidence?
Then there are the live musicians. First up at PJs Tavern the band
Flashback will play on Friday, October 9th at 9:00p.m. The only
information that I could find on them is that they cover hit songs from
the 50's onward. Then on Saturday, October 10th at 9:00p.m. (why does
everything start at 9:00p.m. in this town?) you've got a couple of
options. At Katie O'Leary's you could hear the I Got Issues Band (or IGI,
as I've seen it posted). A quick peek at their myspace page simply listed
their band members and their upcoming shows. They have six friends on
myspace, apparently. Your other option is Stand By, and they'll be playing
at Club 57. Their myspace page revealed a band of relative youngesters,
and a really long historical timeline of the band's creation and
accomplishments that I didn't feel like reading in its entirety. They're a
cover band that plays chart-topping singles from the 70's to the
present... you know, stand bys.
That's all I have for today. Look forward to a long, opinionated rant from
me next week, and until then enjoy your weekend!
Money: It now takes at least a million dollars to wage a campaign for Congress (several millions to run for the Senate). Those who do run have to spend more time raising money than they spend meeting with voters. Most people – though highly qualified and perhaps better qualified – decide the money chase just isn’t worth it.
Interest Groups: Both parties are dominated by interest groups that are outside the mainstream. These groups are not looking for common ground or common sense. Yet, candidates must cater to these groups because they are often the key to getting a party’s endorsement (and, not incidentally, campaign money).
Seniority: In Congress (especially the House) seniority rules. That means that committee chairs (who wield inordinate power) are often legislators who came to Washington three, four or five decades ago. They are still trying to enact yesterday’s agenda. And, they use (sometimes abuse) their power to get what they want.
Gerrymandering: Most sates draw legislative districts in order to create safe districts for the political party in power. As a result, few districts in America are any longer truly competitive. That often means that the winner of a party’s primary is almost assuredly going to win the general election. Ultimately, that leads to a Congress with fewer moderates – and more partisanship.
Careerism: Too many politicians have made a career of politics. That means we do not have enough legislators today who have had real experience in the private sector that could help to inform their public policy decisions. It also means that they are constantly in campaign mode because they want to keep their jobs. Instead, what we as a nation need are legislators who will do their jobs.
That is my two cents.
Tim
Five Things Wrong with the Rightwing Opposition to the President
1. The Socialism Charge. This is something John McCain started about a year ago, and it’s sort of taken on a life of its own. Since then those on the far right haven’t ever really stopped calling the president a socialist – somehow forgetting that it was their own Republican President, George Bush, who abandoned free market principles when he bailed out the banks.
2. Tea baggers. These activists have organized anti-tax rallies across the nation - called TEA Parties – meant to echo the famous Boston Tea Party that preceded the American Revolution. T.E.A. stands for Taxed Enough Already, which is a valid point of view. But there’s one problem – for a lot of these people, and for most Americans - President Obama actually reduced their tax burden with a middle class tax cut as part of the economic stimulus bill.
3. The Nazism Charge. Unless someone is committing genocide or invading countries, as a good rule of thumb, you’d better not be comparing anyone to the Nazis. This goes for everyone, not just those on the political right. Nazism is truly evil, and the more you throw the term around in a cavalier fashion, the less it means.
4. Glenn Beck. He is an inconsistent, hypocritical, bitter fool. He’s a professional sensationalist, who has been elevated by unwarranted media coverage. He enjoys the puzzling adoration of a select few. Listen to him all you like, just remember he is a raving lunatic.
5. The Olympics. Right-wingers jumped for joy at the news that the president failed to bring the Olympics to his hometown of Chicago, citing it as evidence of his ineffectiveness. However, if the president had succeeded in getting the games, you would’ve heard cries that Obama is only paying back his moneyed friends back in Chicago. In fact, right wing radio was already singing that song when it seemed like Chicago was a lock. This hypocrisy belies opposition for opposition’s sake. Enough already!!
Hartley Elementary School is 50 years old this year!
Did you attend that first year 1959, in the brand new school?
What do you remember about going to school at Hartley?
“Are you smarter than a fifth-grader?”
Who is this lady?
The level of play! Waseca area is blessed to have a number of options for sports viewing. The 1 A level with the smallest Gopher conference schools: the 2A schools like Waterville and NHREG: the 3A Waseca Bluejays: the larger schools of Mankato and Owatonna are in 4A or 5A. The idea is to allow each level to participate against equal size and therefore to have a competitive contest.
Usually the case but sometimes not the result! I remember Waseca competing on equal footing with Faribault for 1/2 of a football game but too many big kids and higher quality subs can make for a long evening and lots of injury! Waterville seems to just win no matter what size school they play: but a entire season with bigger schools could be a painful equalizer with exhaustion and injury. Are there too many classes? Should schools be allowed to play who ever they can schedule and get back to a few "David vs Goliath contests! When is the last time you watched Big Nine football and compared it with your teams level of play? What do you think?
Today I wanted to take a more lighthearted approach to the blog...although please remember the Gleason family as well as the Shackle family. Prayers are much needed for these very hurting families. We tend to think of people in the immediate after a tragedy, but both families have a long road ahead. You don't have to know them....a card means so much.
Anyway, like I said, I thought it would be nice to take a more lighthearted approach this week, so I thought I would answer some of the more commonly asked questions about how to manage the logistics of running such a large household....
How much laundry do you do/how does it all get done?
We are blessed to have an extra capacity front loading washer and dryer. It runs early in the morning until very late at night. (today I started laundry at 2:45 AM) Typically I do nine loads a day, which would equate to about 14.5 typical loads. I do not typically put away the children's' laundry. Nor do I fold it. I have shelves above the washer and dryer, each child has a laundry basket with their name on it on the shelves, as clothing comes out of the dryer, it goes directly into each child's basket, they are responsible for emptying it. I DO wish I had implemented this with child #2 as it REALLY simplifies laundry. I do have a separate basket for the rare item in need of ironing. (although to be frank, the ironing rarely gets done) With the store opening soon, thus less time for laundry, I am considering a second washer and dryer to push laundry through faster. How do you cook for such a large family? We buy almost everything in bulk, flour, sugar, baking soda, etc. We stock up on foods on sale each week, my motto is "never pay retail!". Almost all foods are made from scratch due to expense and nutrition, but you can find us on a busy night eating take out pizza. I also buy pans and baking sheets at the restaurant supply store (the only place I can get big enough pans, and the prices are GREAT! I also bought a kitchen-aid mixer that was actually manufactured for a small restaurant. It gets used almost daily, sometimes several times a day....this is probably the wisest purchase I have made for the kitchen.
How do you clean for such a large family? Well, if you have been to my house lately, you know that I don't...just kidding. Right now the house is so full of equipment and merchandise for the new store....it's hard to move around.
I used to have a housekeeper that took care of bathrooms and floors 3x per week. That is no longer a luxury I have. I do my best like everyone else to keep my head above water. My kids have the same struggles as yours at cleaning up their possessions, just a bigger problem with 10 children.....I DO find children to be very motivated if they are told a meal will be served when all of their toys and personal items are removed from the main floor of the house. You would be AMAZED at how quickly they can work then!
What do you drive? I am sure most of you have seen the green shuttle bus around town. Yes, that's me, and no, I don't drive it to be stylish, but have been very surprised at how cool the local school age children and teenagers think it is, LOL! It seats 15 people, and allows my 6 foot tall teenagers the space they need. It also allows us to carry home enough groceries or pack for a weekend out of town (something not possible with a 15 passenger van) When we first got the bus, I chronically had people asking me things like "where is this bus headed" or "what company do you drive for, I would like to arrange a ride to school for my children" When we lived in the metro, I actually had people try to get on the bus at stoplights. We have had fun joking about getting a toll box for the front of the bus, and making some extra cash while running errands :0)
How many bedrooms do you have? We actually have 8, which I am sure makes my home sound like a sprawling mansion. Not so, many of you know where I live (the bus gives me away) it is a modest turn of the century home built by a well to do large family at the time. While it is large to a family with two children, it can still feel crowded on any given day.
I think that covers the majority of commonly asked questions (well, at least the questions that are in good taste) I also get lots of questions about adoption, and may post those in a future blog entry. Feel free to comment with any questions you have about adoption and/or large families as well as anything YOU would find interesting as a blog entry. Believe it or not, all of this feels very typical to me!
First of all, today is October 1st, and if you didn't read my blog last week, I'm going to remind everyone that today is Beer and Brats day in Waseca! If you haven't taken part in these festivities before, it is basically a day where every bar in town offers up cheap brats and beer, starting at 3:30p.m. until all of the brats are gone. I have been told that these brats are specially made for this occasion, so if you can get out of the house tonight, I would definately grab a few friends and check this out!
As for live entertainment this weekend, Friday night from 9p.m.-close PJs Tavern will be hosting the classic rock cover band High Adventure. Also Friday, at Club 57 you can check out the tunes of the 80's hair-metal cover band Sinister, also at 9p.m. I feel like I'm sensing a trend here with Club 57, and I'm starting to be tempted to say simply "Club 57 = 80's covers" and just get it over with. Anyhow, Sinister admits to being a "party band," though they take their music very seriously, and apparently they offer a stellar light show and sound system that should be pretty exciting.
Then Saturday PJs Tavern will have their live DJ session from 9p.m. - close, and Katie O'Leary's will have a live band called Main Street at 9p.m. as well, with drink specials in the hour preceeding. I tried to look up some info on the band, but as there are so many with the same name, I gave up trying. Finally, Club 57 will have yet another live band from 9p.m. to close called Free Fallin which is, you guessed it, a Tom Petty tribute band. I gave some of their covers a listen on their myspace page, and I gotta say, they sound pretty spot on. Even the lead singer seems to have embraced his inner "Petty-ness" in his appearance and wardrobe - long blonde hair, big black top hat, and round frame sunglasses. If I really liked Tom Petty songs (which I do like some, but not enough to sit through a whole night of them) this would be the show to check out this weekend.
I hope you all have a fantastic week, and as they say, eat, drink, and be merry!
Every community needs celebrations to pull us away from our computers and TVs and meet each other doing something together. The key word here is together! Being together as a community, watching, listening, dancing, playing, laughing and crying—it’s what keeps us together in this place called Waseca County. For many this is truly their birthplace. It’s my adopted hometown. That counts. So when there are celebrations, come out and participate. Maybe we can’t get to every one of them, but let’s try! The Leroy Shield Hometown Tribute’s Saturday Night Dance is this weekend on October 3.
So who is Leroy Shield and why is he significant to Waseca, Minnesota?
Leroy Shield was born in Waseca, Minnesota on October 2, 1893 and grew up to become a composer and conductor for Hollywood's popular Laurel & Hardy films and the Our Gang/Little Rascals films of the 1920s/30s. His music has become synonymous with these ageless favorites! Those films were created at the Hal Roach Studios. Movie-making was such a new medium, there weren’t any rules or copyright laws yet in those early years. In fact Shield wrote most of the music for the Hal Roach movies, receiving onscreen credit in only two of the dozens of films. Roach continued to use Shield’s music without the permission and use agreements required today.
Bernard Shield, who worked for the railroad, moved the family from Waseca when Leroy was a child. Eventually, though, Leroy Shield's talents took him to Chicago where he became the Musical Director of the National Broadcasting Company in 1931. There he composed and arranged symphonic music for radio dramas with millions of listeners. He was recognized in Who’s Who in Music in 1941; and received his Honorary Doctorate from the Chicago Musical College in 1942. In 1945 Shield became conductor for the NBC Orchestra in New York, working and touring with the renowned Arturo Toscanini. Leroy Shield retired in 1955 and died in 1962. His importance as a composer has rarely been recognized, but he was a major American composer.
When we got here we were not expecting much. We were told that it was nothing like Iraq and that we were going to a place in the desert. I didn’t have many high hopes so when we did arrive at FOB Leatherneck I was surprised at how good we actually had it!
One of the things that I found to be a bit different was the shower situation. Here is an example for you to put it into perspective.
Everything we do here is in tents. There are a few wooden buildings but mainly tents. The shower tent is located about a half a block from the tent I sleep in. One morning it was pretty warm already and I was sweating before I reached the showers. I was pretty happy to get a layer of dirt and sweat off of me.
When I opened the door to the tent it was actually bigger than it seemed. There is a big area to get ready for the shower and there are a dozen sinks on the outside of another tent within the tent that has a dozen showers in it. The air conditioning was working pretty well in the shower tent that day. I was pretty surprised about it considering it was already warm outside. I cleaned that layer of dirt off me and got ready to start my day. I was feeling pretty good, I was clean and cool. I opened the door to the great outdoors and instantly heat and dust hit me. I now had a fresh layer of dust and sweat for the day.
I say dust because the sand here is so fine it is called moon sand. When you walk in it little clouds form at your feet and when vehicles drive in it a layer of dust forms looking like a good Minnesota fog. It is everywhere and very hard to hide from.
Another thing I learned about the showers is that I am at the mercy of the temperature outside as to how warm of a shower I will get. I have found that if I take a shower in the evenings the water is actually pretty warm from the heat of the day and if I take a shower in the morning, it is naturally colder. The dilemma comes when it is already 95 in the morning but the sun has not heated up the water, thus the previous experience happens.
A few days last week the water pump must have been out in the showers that I usually go to. I had the choice to walk a few “blocks” to another shower or to take bottles of water and dump them over me. Being the guy I am I chose option two, still clean, just a bit colder!
I can say one thing, I am very happy that we get to take showers. I know that it could always be worse. We are pretty fortunate. I am pretty excited to go home and turn on my shower to whatever temperature that I want it to be. It is amazing the little things we take for granted.
We elect and expect our leaders to lead. They often mislead.
Case in point: Governor Pawlenty on the budget.
Pawlenty has for eight years promised us a balanced budget with no new taxes. Sound like a false promise? It was.
He entered office with a $3 billion budget deficit and is on track to leave office with a deficit twice as large. Over the years, his so-called solutions have been both inadequate and dishonest.
Now, despite dire warnings from the state’s chief economist, and other experts, that Minnesota faces an impending fiscal crisis likely to reach fifteen percent of our annual budget, Pawlenty asserts the gap is “manageable.” Easy for him to say as he retires and leaves this problem for the next governor.
Pawlenty helped create a fiscal mess. He has shifted costs onto counties, cities and school districts leading to locally-imposed property tax increases (for which he can not be blamed). He recently made much of his intention to cut the budget by exercising “unallotment.” But fully two-thirds of his cuts were not cuts at all – rather payment shifts that delay state expenditures for schools until the next Governor is in office.
Finally, what about Pawlenty’s tobacco tax that wasn’t a tax – but rather a fee. Misleadership? I think so.
Case in point: President Obama on health care.
Obama pledges to lower health costs while offering more benefits and universal coverage. Sound too good to be true? It is.
The President stood before Congress a week ago and spoke for forty minutes about his health plan. There is none. There are three separate reform bills in the House and two in the Senate – each with some of the ideas put forth by the President. But no Obama bill.
The President spent most of his speech talking about reforms that will cost more money. He promised to veto any bill that adds a “dime” to the deficit, but proposed no serious measures to assure that will happen. Other than waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare, he spoke sparingly about how to get the cost of health care under control.
The President also seemed to agree with Republicans about malpractice reform. But his idea (allowing some states to implement pilot programs to negotiate malpractice claims) was more fluff than substance. Misleadership? You decide.
In Pawlenty and Obama, we have two leaders with enormous intellect and persuasive skill. However, they are not using their influence to help us understand that – whether it is the state budget or the health care system – there are no fixes without some shared sacrifice. A better leader would find a way to tell us that hard truth.
Teammates! We all remember people we played with as a kid, high school and college days! Your first experience with a teammate was most likely the neighbor kids you rode hot wheels or bike with to the park or just up and down the driveway! Later it became more organized and maybe the teammates had a uniform or at least a team shirt to put importance in the relationship!
Whatever happened to that first kid? My first kid was my older brother, we were pals because I was bigger and he liked to take me along. I could play hard and we had that secret magic together on the court or the field! Did you have magic with someone?
Time, place, distance, job, education, and just new priorities makes teammates in life! Maybe it is time to look up that first play mate, or the guy you shot hoops with for hours, or the guy that was your catcher on the VFW baseball team? Why not renew that magic again and talk about old times and see if he ever learned to master that jump shot!
Teammates are great: you don't always get to pick them but they can be a treasure! Who was your first teammate?
I have been waiting to write about this one since we got here. It is something I notice every night before chow. “It” being the Sun setting in the West and the Moon appearing in the East. It is one of the most amazing things that I have seen here. Both are almost always a perfect circle and both dominate the sky with their presence.The moon is a bluish grey color and the sun is shades of yellow and orange.
I would guess the reason we notice such beauty is because we are in the middle of the desert. We are in a place with dull and dirty colors. Tones of uniforms as well as green tents that are now tanned from the dust and our vehicles that are shades of tan and green are the only bits of color that we see. There is a lack of true beauty here what little there is seems to be distorted by the numerous dust and wind storms that are here.
I have made many attempts to try to take a great picture of both but my camera has taken a beating in the last few years. It does not take that great of pictures.
To make it even better, there were clouds in the sky. That too is an amazing site in a dreary land. I did get some pretty nice pictures from it. I hope to show them off sometime.
The enclosed photos are from my coworker SGT Savre.
Hall of Fame Induction this weekend! Do you know about it? Do you know who is to be inducted? Do you know how to nominate someone? Do you know who is eligible? You should check this Hall of Fame out, maybe you should be in it?
The Hall of Fame is promoted by the Bluejay Boosters! Are you a member? The original theory was to take the past and promote the present Bluejay athletes with positive info on the warriors from TheGood Old Days! Encourage the current group of athletes to excel: to do their best each season: to have fun and success at a activity they love: too work hard to be a great teammate! Do you think the current format of the Hall of Fame meets a gold standard of success?
The 2009 class will be present during the Homecoming parade, at the football game , and honored at a dinner Saturday evening. It seems to be a secret but: Greg Vilt, Mike Larson, Billy Lechner, The 1990 State Baseball Champs, and my personal favorite Jacob Conway are the honorees! Tell them congrats on a very nice award! Whether you agree or not on the inductees is the beauty of a Hall of Fame: remember the old days and go see a game featuring the future class of inductees! Tell somebody how much fun you had playing ball and just how good you were! That's part of the fun!
Well, I missed out on comedy night at PJs, which for me was quite a tragedy. I hope that they offer up some awesome stand-up again soon.
This weekend at PJs Tavern they'll have The Radio Band playing on Friday the 25th at 9:00p.m., no cover charge, and Saturday night at 9:00p.m. is DJ night. Club 57 will be hosting the band Sunset Strip on Saturday at 9:00p.m. I suppose if you wanted to, you could see a live band both nights, at alternating clubs! I checked into Sunset Strip and browsed their myspace page. The main picture is of a greasy, long-haired fellow in a cowbody hat that is screaming recklessly into a microphone. Their profile claims that they sound like "You getting jealous at your girlfriend wanting us." Musically, they're something in the way of an 80's rock, hair metal band. Aerosmith seems to be a contributing influence - at least, that's the impression I got upon listening to two of their three tracks available on myspace. I couldn't find any information about The Radio Band, so enjoy their live tunes at your own risk.
I say, forget this weekend and focus on next Thursday. You know what day that is, right? Oh, come on! It's beer and brats day, October 1st! I believe every bar, club, tavern, what-have-you participates in this festive fall occasion. Most places I looked into start the show around 3:00 in the afternoon. This is the ultimate excuse to go bar-hopping, and it starts early enough that you should be able to avoid being hung over at work Friday morning.
Keep enjoying the crisp, autumn air everyone!
Waseca Entertainment Review is written by Jenny Hughes. She can be reached at thejuniperjourney@hotmail.com
My husband's fire department pager went off late that night, as it often does. It struck me as odd though, that our cell phone began ringing at the same time. An odd kind of eerie. A scared kind of eerie.
Our son was on the phone. He was in an accident, the accident that was coming over the fire pager. We struggled for a moment with what to do, should Jeff go to the accident scene or directly to the hospital? We quickly decided on the hospital.
How blessed and relieved we were to have our son home a couple of hours later with some compression fractures in his spine.
It scared me that he and his friends (who were in another car at the scene were so flippant about it. Did they not realize the danger? I begged the boys to please understand the gravity of the situation. I prayed that they were only treating this in such a casual manner in an attempt to appear manly. I explained to them that if they did not take this as a wake up call, there could be disastrous results.
My husbands firefighter pager went off late this morning, as it often does. Jeff was gone much longer than usual. I sent my son to the fire department to retrieve his father's truck so that he could use it to get to work. That is when our son discovered there had been a terrible accident. One of his best Friends was driving. The passenger had died at the scene. Someone from a second car had been taken to the local hospital.
Tyler struggled for a moment with what to do, should he go to the hospital or to the accident scene?
Ironically, the driver is one of the boys I had begged to understand the gravity of the situation. I write this before any determinations of fault have been made, I told my children it doesn't matter. There are a lot of people to pray through this, people whose lives will be forever changed in one moment late this morning.
My son's friends are gathering here as I write this, I am going to go and bake cookies for them now, as I don't know what else to do for such hurting, frightened young men. Now I must beg them not to let this all be in vain. Now I pray this will impact the way this group of young men make decisions for the rest of their lives.
My name is DeAnna, My family and I are Waseca transplants, moving here from the metro in the fall of 2006, after finding a home on the internet that accomodated our family perfectly (did I mention we had no plans to move at the time?).
Initially we were quite concerned about how a small, rural community would respond to our unconventional family. My husband of 20 years and I have 10 children, ranging from age four to twenty-one, four by birth and six by adoption. Our children are ethnically diverse as well as diverse in their abilities.
To say the least, our concerns were completely unfounded. The community has been wonderful, accepting our children for the amazing individuals they are. We can (for the first time) go out to dinner and receive only positive comments. Many people have come to know us as "that big family with the green bus.
We have met so many wonderful families in this community, to say we are happy in Waseca would be an understatement. We have found an amazing church family in Grace Lutheran Church and even our children with unique needs have been able to find activities to be involved in. You are likely to meet our children at horseback riding lessons, gymnastics, police explorers, junior firefighters, community events or submitting items to the fair.
You are likely to meet my husband in his role as a Waseca firefighter, or Waseca police reservist. He has a strong talent for fixing just about everything, my children will tell you "if Daddy can't fix it, it's not broke". That would explain the garage so full of power tools I have not parked a car in a garage for twenty years. Please bear with us if you drive by the house and the garage door is open, revealing the mess.
I am likely to be found grocery shopping, driving children to and from school and activities or scrap-booking. I have found digital scrap-booking and paper scrap-booking to be very therapeutic, as well as a wonderful way to show my children how unique and treasured they each are. My husband is highly tolerant of my hobby (addiction) but warns the children not to stand in place too long or "Mommy might use you as an embellishment".
Our current endeavor as a family is opening an upscale children's consignment shop and boutique in Waseca (Child of Mine). This is something I have wanted to do for many years, We find ourselves a bit overwhelmed at opening in just 5 weeks (Nov first) but things always seem to fall into place.
I think the one thing I would most like to convey is that our family is more like yours than you may think. We share good times and bad, do our best to raise our children in a Godly fashion, and mow the lawn on Saturdays. (OK, so you have driven by and it's not mowed as often as it should be, but we try for every Saturday.) I hope this blog comes to reiterate that while family cultures are different, and those differences should be celebrated, we have much in common with our joys, griefs, struggles and triumphs.
Below is a mish-mash of thoughts and links with no necessary connection other than my need to share.
7 Things to read on a regular basis:
Marginal Revolution - a great blog by two economists from George Mason...I know it sounds dull but they cover a lot of important, entertaining and downright strange topics.
Bluestem Prairie - a progressive blog focusing on Southern Minnesota, great writing and easily the best coverage of state and national politics from a local perspective
Mises.org - sorry more economics, this being the Austrian school of economics which has captivated me - they do have a daily email service <http://mises.org/content/elist.asp> to feed your need.
New York Times - especially Paul Krugman and The Ethicist
This chili - I have not made it yet, it sounds awful good though.
Buzzard Billy's in LaCrosse - great cajun/creole
Famous Daves - Famous Salmon and flat bread, quite possibly the modern equivalent of manna from heaven
Kwik Trip Chicken sandwich for breakfast - quick, cheap and I am sure very nutritious.
2 Places to visit within a few hours drive:
Lark Toys in Kellogg - if you have kids or if you were a kid in the last 90 years this place is incredible
Grotto of the Redemption - West Bend Iowa - yes you have to go to Iowa but this makes the trip worth it.
3 Things to avoid:
Cholera
Spinach
Anything released my Metallica after 1992
Follow up:
I did receive a form letter response from Tim Walz on my most recent email to him (the first must not have been worthy). Here is a good piece in support of the Baucus bill. I do not believe that the cost curve bending measures will work nearly as well as predicted and while the collabortive doctoring idea works great at the Mayo Clinic - they have a whole different pool of resources to draw upon than most medical facilities. Creating a cookie cutter approach = FAIL, even if it is a great cookie cutter.
Misc:
I have submitted my application to be considered for the Council seat vacated by Joe Burke.
The Twins are not worthy to make the playoffs, the Vikings are legitimate Superbowl contenders.
I bought the new Pearl Jam cd (yes occasionally I will by old school stuff like cd's - but iTunes is still way better) haven't listened to it yet but will offer a review at some other time.
St. Johns plays Gustavus this weekend at St. Peter. You can watch Waseca's Jimmie Loonan and Josh Smith play for The Johnnies as well as locals from New Richland, Blooming Prairie, and Blue Earth dominate the Gusties roster. Loonan scored his first collegiate touchdown last Saturday for the Johnnies on a 15 yard pass. The game is at the new Gustie Stadium located on campus but to the west edge of the athletic complex! Beautiful venue!
My plan is to attend the battle of Catholicism between The Johnnies and the Tommies on October 17th in Collegeville just NW of St. Cloud : The Johnnies suit up all 190 plus players and it is a sight to see them run down the hill on to the field. You need a program to find out the difference between the multiple numbers identity since you will see two of each number suited up for action! The red and white of St. Johns is impressive and the Johnnies fans are loyal above and beyond normal. They do one thing well: WIN! Kowz A.M 1170 carries all Johnnie Football games: the show is great but very pro-Johnnie! I don't blame them it is a great program, give a listen or attend a game this fall. www.gojohnnies.com Tell Coach John Gaglardi you know Waseca's John Bendix!
Who was Bernie Bierman and what is his connection to Waseca?
Bernie Bierman was the head coach of the University of Minnesota football program from 1932 to 1950, his teams completed a 93-35-6 (.716) slate over a 16-season span which included six Big Ten Championships, five National Championships and five undefeated seasons. He was born in Springfield, MN in 1894 and died in 1977 in Laguna Hills, CA.
I didn't walk into Gilligan's Bar and Grill in Waterville with the intent to write a blog about it, but after witnessing the changes that have taken place there, I felt compelled to share what I'd experienced.
First of all, Gilligan's is NOT Lighthouse Bay, though it may look the same on the outside, and Gar still makes his fantastic ribs. All of the style and class of the previous incarnation has been sucked out to make way for a common, almost grubby looking bar. I understand that there are probably still improvements to be made, but goodness, the furniture looks like it came off of somebody's back porch, twenty years ago. I must say, the 80's hair bands that rocked over the jukebox was a rather welcome change to the country/rap mix that I've been hearing lately, so that was a bit of a bonus.
The biggest problem here was the service. I don't know why bars can't seem to accomodate anyone. The best service I've had so far was at PJ's Tavern, and even then, I was the only customer present.
When my husband and I seated ourselves at the booth, we were approached fairly quickly by the bartender, who asked for our drink order and handed us a cheap variation of what should have been a menu. Yellow paper in a wrinkled, plastic protector. But I understand that they've recently re-opened, so I suppose that can't be held against them.
Our drinks came quickly, and my husband and I checked out the drink menus on the table. We found the cute array of Gilligan's Island themed specialty drinks to be pretty charming, my favorite being the non-alcoholic Shirley Temple-esque "Mary Ann." Nearby people were standing at tables (yes, standing) and alternating between drinking beer and throwing darts. They seemed to be having a pretty good time.
Ten minutes later, and still no server in sight. Correction - she was in sight, but she didn't appear to see us. She rotated through the regulars, restocking their glass bottles as needed. Finally she glanced up and seemed surprised to see my husband and I seated in a booth. She went to the bartender and spoke something to him, while glancing and pointing at us. Honestly, had I not been comfortably conversing with my spouse, ten minutes would have been my limit. I would have gotten up and left, with a five dollar bill placed neatly on the table to cover my drink.
The server's sincere apologies nullified my frustration for a while, and she graciously took our order. The appetizer came out quickly, but it was cold, and though our meals were good (Gar still makes a mean set of ribs) they seemed over-priced. I think I could have gotten the same meal elsewhere for only half what I paid at Gilligan's.
Overall, I found the experience extremely dissatisfying, so unless a band is playing that I'm just dying to see, I probably won't go back there again.
Luckily, we have some good stuff going on closer to home. The Mason Dixons will be back in town at Club 57 Friday, September 18th at 9:00p.m. Then on Saturday they're having their 4th annual classic car show from 9:00a.m. - 3:00p.m., and Arrows at Dawn are playing at 9:00p.m. Arrows at Dawn are coming to us from Blooming Prairie, and they play originals! How original! PJ's Tavern will be bringing you live music on Friday night with the Garage Orphans from 9:00p.m. - close, with no cover charge. Saturday night at 9:00p.m. they'll have their weekend DJ, and Sunday, September 20th brings the return of Comedy Night, which begins at 8:30p.m. I intend to check this out, so stay tuned next week for a full review.
Enjoy your weekend, everyone. I'll leave you with a fun, Gilligan's related fact: You can sing almost any Emily Dickinson poem to the tune of the Gilligan's Island theme song.
So I got a mailing from Tim Walz tonight that reads "Congressman Tim Walz wants to hear your opinion on health insurance" - well that's good because I have an opinion, I did send him that opinion twice in an email and spoke to one of his staffers for about 20 minutes at his town hall meeting about my opinion. I am glad he is still open to ideas.
Great! The mailing even has a little card that I can mail back to Tim with my important thoughts! Lets fill it out together shall we? 1. Do you agree with those who believe that access to affordable health insurance is the right of all Americans? Or, do you believe it is a privilege only for those who can afford it?
Okay, put down your pencils for a second - let's not answer yet. Those are the two choices I get? Declare affordable health insurance a right or say that it is a privilege for fat cats? Seems a little narrow to me. Okay lets try an answer.
No, Tim, affordable health insurance is not a right. You cannot have a right that compels somebody else to do something against their will. There is no historical basis for it, it is simply something that has been made up in the last few years. A right is a powerful, dare I say, sacred notion — we cannot apply the status of right to everything that is nice to have. Oh wait, we can't write all that — Tim only allowed us three 2.75" lines to respond to his question. Lets move on for now.
2. Do you believe our health insurance system is in need of reform? Or, do you believe it works well enough as it is?
Another question with two narrow choices phrased to elicit the answer Tim wishes to hear? Again just a small amount of space to write my answer — let's give it a shot...
Tim, our health insurance system is made up of over a thousand insurance companies, Medicare, Medicaid, millions of people who self insure and thousands of companies that self insure for their employees — how can I declare the system in need of reform? Millions of people are very happy with their health care insurance, millions are not happy and most don't have a clue. (we wrote really, really small and fit all that in there)
3. Do you believe we should pay doctors for the outcomes of the medical care they provide or the amount of services they provide?
Okay, that seems a little better — still no room for a well thought out answer that probes at the heart of the economic structure of the doctor patient relationship but at least he didn't pigeon hole us quite as bad this time.
Tim, we live in a free market society we should be free to choose to pay a doctor for outcomes or for services provided and doctors should be free to charge for outcomes or for services. That is the very notion of our contract based economy. Ideally our congressional representatives would be working tirelessly to tear down government regulations that hamper such mutual interaction
4. What is you insurance story? I want to hear from you.
Again only a couple of lines, and of course I have already shared this story but here we go.
Congressman Walz,
Thank you for your service to our country and for representing me in Washington D.C..
I have a very passionate interest in health care reform. In January of this year my wife Stacy and I along with my daughter Josephine and son Isaiah adopted three wonderful boys from Texas. Eddie, Davit and Jose have been a wonderful addition to our family and have fit in quite well.
The boys are the children of illegal immigrants, their father was not a nice person and is either back in Mexico or in prison. Their mother died just a few years ago of a condition called Alports disease. Alports disease attacks the kidneys and eventually people who have this disease will need lifelong dialysis or a kidney transplant in order to survive. The boys father told their mother that if she sought treatment she would be deported, this led to her death.
All three boys have been diagnosed with Alports syndrome, a precursor to the disease. Last month they visited the Mayo Clinic and we received the news that they would likely experience kidney failure somewhere between their teenage years and 30th birthday. The oldest boy, Eddie, already wears hearing aids; hearing loss is common in people with kidney disorders. He is still happy and well adjusted he just has to remember to take them out before swimming.
We are truly blessed to be well insured, I work at Brown Printing Company and they have great insurance. Additionally the state of Texas and Minnesota have an arrangement to provide Medicaid insurance for all children adopted out of foster care. So right now for us the insurance and health care systems are working well.
But then on Monday morning I read an article in the New York Times that made break down in tears — as a former Marine I hate to cry and I hate admitting it even more. The article tells of a young woman with Alports that was able to get a kidney, donated by her mother, transplanted into her body so she would be able to live free of dialysis ($9300/month). Medicare paid for the transplant ($125,000) and covered the medications needed to keep her body from rejecting the kidney ($1000-$3000/month). But sadly, Medicare only pays for 3 years of drugs. The young lady did her best to stretch out the pills but eventually her body rejected the kidney and she went into a coma. Her biggest pain is that it was her mothers only spare kidney that was destroyed. Why does Medicare only pay for 3 years of medication? It costs too much. At some point in time congress made the decision to stop paying for the drugs at 36 months - not based on outcomes, or service or even best practices - just based on cost. Happily the young woman has had a second transplant, again covered by Medicare, and will get 3 more years of drug coverage and then...
Congressman Wilson of South Carolina called President Obama a liar last week, I hope you too have the courage to call the President a liar when he says that death panels are a myth. Under a single payer system when a line is drawn on coverage, which congress has already shown they will do, those who cross the line are damned.
My wife and I have two kidneys between us to share, I have hope that if there is a need that Isaiah or Josephine will step forward to help their brothers in a time of need as well. My brother has already made the offer. Every financial decision my wife and I make is made with an eye towards making sure we can cover the costs of transplants and medication that they boys will need. But it is awful damn hard to stomach the thought that when someone literally gives a piece of themselves that it can be destroyed for something as trivial as money. I use the story of my family not as a plea to solve my problems but as a backdrop to workable solutions to deal with health care.
First - move the health insurance tax incentive from employers to employees. Brown Printing Company has wonderful insurance but they buy a policy for my family, a young person right out of high school, a wise and kind man who just turned 60 and all other shapes and sizes. They cannot tailor the plan to suit us all, in the end they buy a group policy that, while having employees in the front of their mind, is based in their self interest. Let me buy the policy for my family - I know what my needs are better than anyone else. The biggest benefit is continuing coverage, if I am buying the coverage I can cover my children even after they reach 18. Insurance companies have less of an interest to drop sick people when they can count on premiums paid over a longer period. Most importantly it attaches incentives and disincentives much closer to health care consumers.
Second - end patents on drugs. Currently drug companies get 20 years of exclusivity from the date a drug is invented, given that it might take up to 8 years to get the drug approved that means a drug company must capture all the costs and profits of a drug in 12 years. Take away the patent time lines and the drug can be monetized over a much longer time period - this will drive drug costs way down. Generic drug makers will be a thing of the past - Duncan Hines and Betty Crocker do not have a patent on chocolate cake mix - do you by the store brand? Neither do I.
Third - tackle tort reform, we all know that malpractice insurance only constitutes a small portion of the health care economy but fear of a practice ending lawsuit changes the way health care is delivered - not to the benefit of the patient.
Fourth - Congress can finally use the interstate commerce clause for what it was intended for and prevent states from restricting commerce. There should be no barriers between the states on insurance portability.
Fifth - Require Medicare and Medicaid to pay market prices for services rather than shifting costs to others.
That, Mr. Walz, is my health insurance story. I don't suppose it fits into the questions on your questionnaire, it doesn't fit with President Obama's speech, it doesn't fit with Republican head in the sand approach. It is just my story. As I submit this to be published on the Waseca County News website I will submit it to you again. I hope you read it, I hope you read the story in the New York Times. I don't want you to solve my problems, I'll do okay, I'll make sure my boys do well. I ask you to consider the options I laid out above for every other parent with a child facing the same uphill climb. Universal health care sounds good on paper, but none of us live on paper. The real world failures are all to real.
My wife's birthday was September 11. Since her passing nearly four years ago, this date has become a reminder of personal loss for me and our family. To commemorate her birthday, the kids and I always get together for dinner. While the pain of losing her is an unspoken presence, present too is the evidence of her unending love. As I look around the table, I rejoice in the family she and I created - our three sons, our daughter, and now two grandchildren. She lives on in each of us.
Just as personal loss never really heals, a national loss also leaves deep and painful wounds. The loss we shared on September 11, 2001 lives on in each of us as Americans. This past week as I watched the news stories about the terrorist attack eight years ago which took thousands of innocent lives, the emotions of shock and horror and sadness were reawakened in me. For Americans today, this date has taken on the significance of December 7 for the World War Two generation.
I am proud that we continue to honor the memory of those who perished that day. 1 am proud, as well, that we continue to show gratitude for the bravery of the emergency personnel - police, firefighters and others - whose lives are dedicated to protecting us. And, I am especially proud that we as a people have been united in our support for the many sailors, soldiers and airmen who selflessly answer the country's call to service.
Just last week, I spoke with an area resident - an Army reservist - who was home on leave from his third tour of duty since the start of our War on Terror. I couldn't help but think of the immense personal sacrifice that he - and others like him - are making on our behalf. No amount of compensation now or in the future can adequately replace what he is giving up - in terms of time away from his family and from his private sector profession. His sacrifice is emblematic of all those who wear our country's uniform.
Those who serve us in the military share a deep love of our nation and the ideals for which it stands - so much so that they put their very lives on the line. December 7, 1941 instilled in us an appreciation and an admiration for those who wore the uniform. But, sadly, our Korean and Vietnam veterans did not receive the same recognition. I hope that this time the renewed respect for our military veterans will not waver as time goes by.
That is my two cents.
Tim Penny
It's been a little over 8 years now since those horrifying events, and a little less since American troops first set foot in Afghanistan. We're still there - or more appropriately - they're still there. It's something we as Americans don't think about enough. The media doesn't talk about it enough. The boots on the ground are the only ones who have done enough. In fact, they've done more than enough, and we owe them. Big time.
For years, many Americans have acted like a ribbon car magnet on the back of their car was doing their part in supporting the troops. This is not enough. We missed many opportunities at the beginning of the conflict in Afghanistan, and again in 2003 in Iraq. Our previous President and previous Secretary of Defense received plenty of deserved flack (but perhaps too little, too late) for their lack of planning ahead. Bush obviously receives criticism for lots of things, but not for his lack of leadership in the wake of 9/11.
In fact, that's when his approval numbers, not surprisingly, were at their highest. But while the nation rallied behind our President, he should have done more. We should have been asked that we all pitch in. In every way, be it financially or otherwise, regular citizens and soldiers should have been galvanized into a united front to fight and win the war in Afghanistan.
It's the soldiers and their families - almost exclusively - that have made the sacrifices. And even as many of us have missed years of opportunities to show them our appreciation, it's never too late.
My apologies for being preachy on a touchy subject. It's the kind of tough love we Americans need, myself included. Our armed forces do everything their country asks of them and more. Too many have given their last full measure of devotion, and too few of us seem to remember that.
That's my two cents.
Marcus Penny
Our Two Cents is written by Tim and Marcus Penny. Tim Penny is a former U.S. Congressman and Waseca resident. Marcus Penny studies at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
“Unzie” was perhaps Waseca County’s most unusual visitor. He was an albino Australian aborigine who traveled with Barnum & Bailey’s Circus, and who is thought to have performed at the Chautauqua at Maplewood Park in the 1880s/90s.
Unzie’s real name was either Charlie or Danny Hadley, twins that were photographed by Charles Eisenmann, a Victorian photographer who specialized in photographing very unusual people, 1870-1890. At the time “Unzie” was thought to be a very handsome man. His snow-white hair grew very quickly, and of course, he attracted a great deal of attention. This cabinet card photograph was found in the WCHS collection, donor unknown. Waseca County history, it’s unexpected.
My name is Jeremiah Miller. I am currently deployed to Afghanistan with the Minnesota National Guard. My unit is out of Duluth. I am excited to write a blog for you to read. I plan on writing about some of the daily things that I observe around our Forward Operating Base (FOB) Leatherneck.
The first thing I would like to tell you is that I am an Administrative Specialist. I work on Soldiers issues and try to get them all of the information they need to be successful in their military career. I sit at a desk and as my daughter wrote one Veterans Day, I work behind a computer. I love my job in the military and feel that I am good at it. I love helping Soldiers and showing them all the benefits that they have earned. My intentions are to share only my experiences and if possible with help some of my fellow Soldiers. I do not intent to represent anyone but myself and my experiences.
Now on to my blog. I am what some in the Military call a FOBIT, or a person that does not leave the wire. I am happy being called such, for the reasons above. I have a lot of respect for the guys and gals that do go out and put their lives on the line.I am content being a FOBIT and with this I am going to share some observations that we experience on our FOB.
I hope you will enjoy some of my experiences and I hope it gives a very small picture of what goes on here.
Injuries! Many an athlete has performed flawlessly until injury showed its ugly face. High school, college, pro, and the weekend warriors have all seen the pain of injury. The HS athlete of course is different, they are suppose to be in shape because of the young age, not always the case!
Coaches and parents: yes parents: need to push their athletes to get in the best shape possible. Be a 3 sport athlete, run, bike, lift, eat properly, and get to know your body are all vital to prevent injury! When injury does hit, the better conditioned athlete recovers and gets back to the action. Get in gear, get in shape at a young age, and stay in shape as a life style!
Couple other no brainers! Wear a mouth guard, wear a cup, protect your eyes, be conservative with your hair, and stay hydrated! Don't take your body for granted, be proactive! Encourage your team mates to respect themselves as well! Ok, what do you think?
Volleyball is an interesting sport! Consistent team play seems to be a hard to achieve goal for every team. Great individuals make a huge difference in high school volleyball but team work and coaching seem to be the real mix which takes a team to the next level. Area schools like Faribault B.A.and Marshall have long time coaches who seem to reload each year and WIN!
Waseca volleyball has started with a couple wins in 2009: is this the year? Get out and see the area girls play volleyball! Which area school has the best team in 2009? Who is/was the best area volleyball player in your opinion?
Questions...
If we were to move to the single payer system how does it save money as its proponents believe ? Is the savings the total value of operational costs (employees, technology, janitorial services, etc) + profits of the insurance industry? According to the census bureau there are 6.5 million people employed in the insurance industry - 12% of industry sales is health care insurance - by extension that would be almost 800,000 employees in health insurance. How many of those would be moved to the rolls of government employment (the rest I guess become unemployed...) at what cost? But hey, the real savings comes from the profits right (I'll save you the click health insurance companies profits run close to 5%- far less than Wal-Mart)?
Outside of the single payer debate - How does Obama's proposed market differ from the actual market? Are we not all free to go to the market individually or collectively for insurance now?
To beat an old horse...is the federal government capable of running even a small portion of health care? Can we have an expectation that the government portion is more effective than Medicare and its unfunded costs to the taxpayers? Shouldn't the first step be to for the government to put its financial house in order before taking on more? What about fixing social security? Show me you can do what you have already promised before you take on more.
Diatribe...
The fallacy of 50%+1 and its effects
It is easy to trace the current health care debate back to the policies of Bush. Had Bush not set forward his my way or the highway 50%+1 mandate the resulting shift to Democratic control would not have occurred. Truly the proposed health care reform is the unequal and opposite reaction of the empire wars and is likely to cost our nation just as much if not more.
But the truth is there was no 50%+1 then and there is no 50%+1 now. 80 - 90% of individuals, when considering both the wars and health care reform would come to a very different course of action than the nation did/is taking. The neo-cons used jingoism and fear to promote nationalist fervor to support the wars. The wars were tied to party politics and tax cuts on their own merit they would not have stood. The question we were given is do we go to war or let the terrorists win - clearly there are number of alternatives not presented in the question. Keep alternatives out of the question and you can move more people.
Once the pixie dust wore off the middle moved in reaction to the failures of the Bush administration. Now Obama is using the same tactics as Bush to promote a war on health care costs. The threat is no less real (highly exaggerated for purposes of the discussion but real nonetheless) the solution is partnered with lofty ideals like social justice, combating greed and putting us on par with the rest of the civilized world.
So here we sit with a disproportionate response to a problem that we can never solve. People still hate the US for many reasons (legitimate or not) and will attack us or others in the future. The world is no safer with Saddam dead, a new Saddam has taken his place - in Venezuela, in Iran, in other places off of our radar. Al-Queda still exists, they have moved to Pakistan, Somalia, they are in Sudan. Their successes and failures have inspired more groups with different ideologies that are no less dangerous.
Likewise 10 years after the health care solution is active we will still have disease and unequal access to health care. Sure the cost structure changes appearance but total use of resources necessary to provide the level of health care that we want in the US does not change.
Currently our exploits in Iraq and Afghanistan leave us exposed militarily and have taken a massive economic toll on us. Our war on health care will be just as much a folly with no resulting gain.
The Tea Party activists share so much in common with the anti-war protesters, Obama is the new Bush. Pragmatism has left our nation.
At first the darkened windows of PJs Tavern cause me to hesitate. Are they actually open? I peek in and see only a few flashes of neon from some signs that decorate the interior. Slowly I open the door and step inside.
The biggest surprise upon entry, is the size of the place. The layout is wide due to the addition of the next door building, which now houses PJs's band stage and dance floor. The stage is a decent size, and there is more than enough room for fifty or more tightly packed dancing bodies. Everywhere high-definition televisions of various sizes are showing baseball games. The jukebox looks clean, new, and high-tech. Next to the bar is a large pool table and a dartboard.
It being a Wednesday night, and still relatively early, PJs is empty when I step inside. Literally. There is nobody behind the bar. As I take a seat, however, a smiling young man jogs out from the back room and greets me as though we've known each other for years. Immediately my esteem for this venue kicks up a notch or two.
I discuss the nightlife here at PJs with the bartender, and he is only too happy to inform me of the latest happenings. Every weekend they alternate DJs and cover bands - DJs for the younger, dance-happy crowd, and live bands for those that still enjoy the experience of a live performance. He talks up their upcoming comedy nights, and I'm led to believe that they are mostly his idea, as he seems so proud of them. They'll be starting mid-September.
This week PJs will have a DJ on Friday, and Saturday the 12th will be live music by Foolish Mortals. I'm told they're a younger band with a lot of appeal - not a death metal band, which was my first impression due to their epic name. There will be some other entertainment going on Saturday - Katie O'Leary's will be hosting The Fried Band from 9:00p.m.-close, with a pre-band Happy Hour starting at 7:00p.m. The other biggest entertainment event is Boss Grant's Johnny Cash Revue. This will take place at Harguth's Barn. Doors open at 6:00p.m. with a small opening act before Boss takes in the spirit of Johnny Cash. Yes, there is a cover charge, and $20 seems steep, but at least you get a sandwich with your show. If you're broke (like me), I'd recommend giving Foolish Mortals a try.
PJs Tavern accommodates their bands nicely, which I like. They have their own PA and lighting system - a bonus for any out-of-town act. I learned this from the bartender, and my conversation with him slipped easily from their weekend entertainment to their pool and dart leagues to their future opening of a formal meeting space. He told me they hope to continue their improvements, and perhaps fix the signage outside, so the two buildings would tie together better.
As I further talked with the man behind the counter, I felt as though I was an incredibly entertaining individual. Not a single detail of what I had to say was missed. Instead, it was noted, agreed with, and added to, producing a continuous, lively conversation. I was even introduced to the owner, who seemed friendly in that "just you average kind of guy" sort of way. I noted too that, as I got ready to leave, another patron who sat at the bar was greeted in just as friendly a manner. It was obvious that the man who came in had been there before, and he and the bartender seemed to flawlessly pick up their conversation from wherever they had last left off.
My final impression of PJs Tavern is that the customer comes first, entertainment second, food last. I like their open, breathable layout, and I am more than impressed with their service. While possibly not a place to get an above average meal (pizza, mostly), PJs serves up a warm welcome and a pleasant atmosphere. I am genuinely looking forward to seeing how they progress in the upcoming months.
“We need every single one of you to develop your talents, skills and intellect so you can help solve our most difficult problems.” Frightening words? Radical stuff? Hardly.
This one sentence from President Obama’s speech to America’s school children is representative of the entire speech. In short, it was standard stuff. Actually, the main points he made - stay in school, study hard, be respectful, and be responsible – are universal values. As parents, we say the same things to our own kids and we expect our teachers, principals and community leaders to reinforce these messages. So, why not the President?
I do not quite get the controversy surrounding his speech - especially since no school district was required to broadcast it into the classroom. Some schools chose to do so – others decided differently. That is as it should be because our community schools are accountable to the parents and taxpayers within the community.
I did feel that the “study guide” to accompany the President’s speech which was being developed and distributed by the U.S. Department of Education was taking things a bit too far. I am glad that that idea was squelched. Instead, I much prefer that our local teachers decide whether and how they want to build a lesson plan around the message delivered by the President. That seems more in keeping with our tradition of local control.
Let me be clear, I did not vote for Obama and do not support a number of his policies. But he is our President (and we only get one at a time). As such, what he has to say about education is important for all of us to hear – including our children.
That is my two cents.
Tim
Just as the conservative pundits were huffing and puffing earlier this week over the president’s back-to-school speech, so too were Republican members of Congress Wednesday night during the president’s address on health care. One such congressman has received considerable attention for shouting out “YOU LIE” in the middle of the speech (an exclamation that was at best misinformed, and at worst itself a lie).
There seems to be an unyielding opposition to Obama, no matter what he’s saying. I was listening to an ultra-conservative radio host the other day (a guilty pleasure of mine) and she was attacking the president for flaunting his internet savvy! Okay, so I can admit that I mocked the previous president for referring to “The Google,” and his obvious lack of internet savvy, but I can also admit I was going overboard then too.
It’s perfectly all right to have a genuine difference in political philosophy. It’s more than valid to be weary of the expensive and liberal policies that President Obama has already enacted. Politicians like Sen. John McCain, Judd Gregg and Lindsay Graham have demonstrated that it is possible to be critical of the president, but still respectful. The president has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to be civil toward his opponents as well. Others, like Rep. Michele Bachmann, seemed to have missed the memo on how to conduct yourself as, you know, a responsible adult and member of Congress.
If we want to pull ourselves out of this unending funk, quiet the shouting, and stop the tears, we ought to pick apart the president’s health care speech. But instead of going line by line and choosing everything we hate, let’s focus on what we can agree on. We will never have a bill that every American or every politician is going to love, but it’s imperative we find a balance that the most people can be the most happy with. This cannot be achieved by taking as gospel everything you read in anonymous chain e-mails, or using polarizing ideologues like Rush Limbaugh or Keith Olbermann as your primary sources of information.
We need to follow the lead of Senators McCain, Gregg, Graham and President Obama. A little decorum, people!
That is my two cents.
Marcus
Our Two Cents is written by Tim and Marcus Penny. Tim Penny is a former U.S. Congressman and Waseca resident. Marcus Penny studies at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Good Day Widespread Panic readers – below is my first discussion with Cathy Hoy and Randy Zimmerman on the need for the proposed referendum.
I have more questions and, based on what I see here, some comments that I will include in the near future. I encourage you to read on, and if you have questions send them on to me and I will see if I can get some answers.
Thank you very much for taking the time to answer some questions I have about the upcoming referendum and the Waseca School District finances. I hope that through this process I can gain and share the knowledge to make an informed decision in November. To be upfront I would say I am not inclined to vote in favor of the referendum today but admit that is more out of ignorance than opposition. With those formalities out of the way let's get down to business.
I have attached and will make available on Widespread Panic a spreadsheet of revenues and expenditures for the Waseca School District along with two others (Fairmont and Thief River Falls), chosen because of their close match to Waseca in student population. The sheet covers finances for the fiscal years of 2005 - 2008 and is pulled from data posted by the state.
First some observations - General fund revenues and expenditures in total seem relatively flat and in each year for the General Fund revenues (as categorized in the state reporting format) show a surplus:
Based on this it looks like the education portion of the District is doing fine – where is the surplus going to and what is driving the need for the increase in the levy?
Ok Matt here it is I am hoping it is clear as mud and I managed to answers your questions. Let me know how much more convincing I need to do for you to commit to our technology committee
Fiscal year Revenues Expenditures Surplus/ (Deficit)
2008 $20,965,903 $21,115,744 ($149,841.00)
2007 $21,321,192 $21,670,170 ($348,978.00)
2006 $20,985,690 $21,552,760 ($567,070.00)
2005 $20,049,096 &nb
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