Welcome, Katherine Summer White!

On 24 August 2010, Jacob White's wife, Heather, gave birth to their second daughter, Katherine Summer, in Blaine, Minnesota. Kate weighed 7lbs. 7oz. and measured 20.5" long.

Jake, Heather, big sister, Clara, and Kate are home in Blaine and enjoying their sweet little family. Please join me in congratulating Jake and his family on this amazing event!

Jason Kluver gets married!

On Saturday 28 August 2010, Jason and Lori Kluver were united in marriage at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria, witnessed by the two most important people in their lives, son, Aidan and daughter, Savannah. A reception followed at the Broadway Ballroom.  The couple are also settled into their brand new home near Garfield.  Congratulations, Jason and Lori!

Welcome, Jay Harley Thompson!

On 12 August 2010, Stef (Lenz) Thompson gave birth to her second child, son, Jay Harley, in Chicago, Illinois. Jay weighed 8lbs. 7oz. and measured 21.25" long.

Stef, Joe, big sister, Maddie, and Jay are home in Chicago where Maddie is being a HUGE help to both her new baby brother and her parents. Please join me in congratulating Stef and her family on this amazing event!

Welcome, Riley James Schoenecker!

On 31 August 2010, Jenny Zuel gave birth to her second son, Riley James, in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Riley weighed 8lbs. 9z. and measured 20.5" long.

Jenny, her fiancee, Chad Schoenecker, big brother Austin, and Riley are home in Cold Spring and enjoying their blessed little family. Please join me in congratulating Jenny and her family on this wonderful event!

Sabrina (Skillings) Hertel and Derrick Anderson get married!

After a nearly nine-year courtship, on 30 June 2010, Sabrina (Skillings) Hertel and Derrick Anderson were married in a very private ceremony, surrounded by their three children and a small gathering of close personal friends and family, in Alexandria.  Congratulations, Sabrina and Derrick!

Support Ethan Rittmiller

Lori (Lotthammer) Wallin and her husband, Carl, are organizing a 5K fun run and walk for their nephew, Ethan Rittmiller, who is in need of a new heart. Ethan was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy in March 2010. In late April, Ethan was selected as a heart transplant candidate. He is on the Mayo Clinic's donor list and could be the recipient any day a heart becomes available.

Event highlights:
Date: Saturday 25 September 3010
Location: Sucker Lake Park, 4520 Rice Street, Vadnais Heights, MN
Time: 8:00am start (rain or shine)
Prizes will be awarded for the top three in each category (men, women, youth under 14)
Refreshments will be served post-race
Questions? Please contact: newheart4ethan@gmail.com

Registration:
Race Day Registration will be held from 7:00-7:45am
Cost: $25
Or, register online: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/cota_events

If you're unable to race but would like to help with funding Ethan's medical bills, please visit: http://www.cotaforethanr.com/

Welcome, Isabella Rose Clitty!

On 11 September 2010, Jeremy Clitty's wife, Erica, gave birth to their third child, daughter, Isabella Rose, in Alexandria, Minnesota. Isabella weighed 7lbs. 10z. and measured 21.5" long.

Jeremy, Erica, big brother Austin, big sister Hailey, and Isabella are home in Kensignton, Minnesota. Please join me in congratulating Jeremy and his family on this wonderful event!

Welcome, Josie Francine Betterman!

On 30 July 2010, Angie (Kalina) Betterman, gave birth to her second daughter, Josie Francine, in Alexandria, Minnesota. Josie weighed 10lbs. 6z. and measured 21" long.

Angie, Robbie, big sister Ellie, and Josie are home in Alexandria where Ellie currently LOVES the title of "big sister!". Please join me in congratulating Angie and her family on this amazing event!

Justin Williams gets married!

On 14 July 2010, Justin Williams and his long-time girlfriend, Meghan Cronin, hiked several miles to an area on Diamond Lake, Colorado near Nederland, where the two joined hands in marriage very privately. The couple solemnized their own vows, just the two of them and the nature surrounding them, in their very intimate ceremony.

Calling many areas of the US home, Justin and Meghan own a music business, Spice Traders Music, which sets up shop a Renaissance Festivals all across the country, and move to the newest area every couple of months.

Congratulations, Justin and Meghan!

Tammy Lee gets married!

On Saturday 17 July 2010, Tammy Lee wed her long-time love, Steve Morell, in a lakeside ceremony at the Lee House, overlooking Lake Geneva. An outdoor reception followed, complete with a performance by the groom's funk band. Congratulations, Tammy and Steve!

Support the Diaper Drive

Not long ago, Kristen (Wiener) Grode saw a need and wanted to fill the void.  The need: clean, dry diapers for infants and toddlers in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.  So rather than sit idly by, she decided to do something about it, creating the first charity of its type, The Diaper Drive www.thediaperdrive.com.

The purpose of the Diaper Drive is four-fold - to help prevent health and neglect issues for children by giving low-income families access to fresh, properly fitting diapers; to partner with the community, collecting diapers and/or funds to purchase diapers; to act as a vendor to public service agencies with diaper needs; and to advocate, through the use of technology and social media, that "basic human needs" include diapers and that these needs are not being met for many children and adults.

Since beginning the Diaper Drive, Kristen has been featured in various media - a front-page article in the Star Tribune (http://www.startribune.com/local/99177504.html), Twin Cities Live (http://twincitieslive.com/article/stories/s1645700.shtml?cat=10698), and the Minnesota Sun (http://www.mnsun.com/articles/2010/07/15/news/fw/fw15diapers.txt) as well as getting other publicity through things like Yoga Nights.

On Thursday night - 29 July 2010 - the Diaper Drive, along with Families Moving Forward, will host Dinner for Diapers ... a night of music by Glen Everhart (remember when he used to sing on the Deck Bar with his partner, Fyder?), silent auction bidding, and noshing on great food!  If you live in the metro, or will be in the metro area on Thursday night, please consider attending.  For a small $5 donation (suggested), you too can help make a difference in the lives of the diaper-wearers and their caretakers. The event will be held at 1808 North Emerson Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55411 and will begin at 6:30pm.

In the meantime, check out the Diaper Drive's website and consider donating any unused, spare diapers you may have toward Kristen's efforts.  Andria (Fisher) Kvitek has also started a branch of the Diaper Drive in the Duluth area.

Welcome, Liam Douglas Kohn!

On 15 July 2010, Sara (Baustian) Kohn gave birth to her third son, Liam Douglas, in Sartell, Minnesota. Liam weighed 6lbs. 10oz. and measured 19" long.

Sara, Eric, big brothers Jackson and Brady, and Liam are home in Sartell. Please join me in congratulating Sara and her family on this fabulous event!

Welcome, Olivia Grace Pearson!

On 8 May 2010, Jeff Pearson's wife, Sarah, gave birth to their second daughter, Olivia Grace, in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Olivia weighed 8lbs. 13oz. and measured 21.75" long.

Jeff, Sarah, big sister Emilia, and Olivia are home in Richfield. Please join me in congratulating Jeff and his family on this amazing event!

Art in the Park is Next Weekend

The annual Art in the Park, now in its 35th year, will be held at Alexandria City Park next weekend, Saturday and Sunday 24-25 July.

Get your Kettle Korn, City Park, windy weekend, and art fixes all in one weekend!

Art of the Lakes Studio Tour is This Weekend

This year’s annual Art of the Lakes Studio Tour has been set for this weekend. The tour will take place Friday 16 July 16 from 9:00am to 5:00pm; Saturday 17 July from 9:00am to 5:00pm and on Sunday 18 July from 12:00noon to 5:00pm.

Some studios, however, will not be open on Sunday. Check the Art of the Lakes website – http://www.artofthelakes.org/ – for detailed information.

Participants in this free event can visit with a number of artists in many different studio locations and visit the Art of the Lakes Gallery in Battle Lake.

View artworks in progress, watch demonstrations, ask questions, buy art direct from the artists and enjoy refreshments. Purchases made on the tour will help fund children’s art programs.

Meet John Hawkes next Friday!

The Alexandria Area Arts Association and Midway Mall Cinema 9 are excited to announce an event scheduled for Friday 23 July.

John Hawkes, who was known as John Perkins when he graduated from Jefferson High School in 1977, is the star of the newly released movie, Winter’s Bone.  You probably last remember seeing Hawkes in the movie, A Perfect Storm, in which he played the character, Bugsy.

Hawkes will be on hand at an exclusive showing of the movie at noon on Friday 23 July.

The downtown arts theater and Cinema 9 are partnering together for a light lunch, movie premiere and a meet and greet with Hawkes.

The proceeds from the event are being donated to the AAAA Theatre.

There are only 250 tickets available and the cost is $10 per ticket.

Tickets are available at the AAAA box office from 11:00am to 5:00pm Monday through Friday. Either call the office at 320.762.8300 or stop by at 618 Broadway.

Welcome, Brett Tyler Orpen!

On 8 May 2010, Angie (Skramstad) Orpen gave birth to her second son, Bretty Tyler, in Spirit Lake, Iowa. Brett weighed in at 8lbs. 10oz. and measured 21" long. He's already sleeping through the night, giving his mom so many more opportunities to love him!

Angie, big brother Tate, and husband Scott are back home in Spirit Lake, and getting lots of family adventures in already! Please join me in congratulating Angie and her family on this beautiful, blessed event!

Shawn Nelson is Back in Action on the Field

Shawn Nelson, as I'm sure many of you will remember, was a standout on the Jefferson High School Cardinal football team.

Last year, after taking six years off, he once again laced up his cleats and hit the field, this time as a multi-functional player for the semi-pro team, the Brainerd Lumberjacks. Finding a deep-rooted drive to play football once again after the passing of his mother, Shawn has rediscovered his love for playing the game,

The Lumberjacks are made up of many former high school and college players, though I'm told the hitting and level of play are much stronger than back in the glory days.

Similar to the Alexandria Mustangs from a few years back, the Lumberjacks play teams from the upper Midwest. Last year, they claimed the championship in their division.

Since joining the Lumberjacks, Shawn has played running back, wide receiver, and line backer ... and is now settling into his favorite role, defensive end.

The Lumberjacks are in action this Saturday in Forest Lake, as they open the playoff season against the Northern Terror. At this time, it's looking like the game will kickoff at 3:00pm.

Watch for Shawn wearing #31 for the 'Jacks!

Beth (Abbott) Rogers' Sister is Omaha-bound!

Brandi - Corinne (coach) - Sara

Sara Abbott, sister of our classmate Beth (Abbott) Rogers, is headed to Omaha this weekend to compete in the National Special Olympics.

Sara qualified in January as one of two athletes representing Minnesota at the national level .  She'll be competing in gymnastics events.

The entire Abbott clan is caravaning to Nebraska this weekend to watch Sara perform!

Make the Bride Money is Open for Business!

Our classmate, Krista Senesac, has opened a business aimed at helping a bride-to-be make money at her bachelorette party or other special event.

Bouquets made out of lollipops, more commonly known as "suck for a buck" bouquets, are Krista's specialty. Each bouquet is handmade and custom-designed by Krista, and combines both lollipops and silk flowers. Various sizes and colors are available.

For more information, or to order, please visit Krista's website: www.makethebridemoney.com or her dedicated Facebook page: www.facebook.com/makethebridemoney.

Class of 1998 classmate update

Class:

Last night at 5:45pm, Shannon Simonson (Class of 1998) was killed in a two-car accident on Co. Rd. 22, just east of Garfield.  She leaves behind two young daughters and a son.

Visitation will be held at Anderson Funeral Home on Sunday 11 July between 4:00-7:00pm.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Monday 12 July at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Please keep Shannon's daughters, son, friends, and family in your thoughts and prayers.  Give your kids an extra hug and kiss tonight and be sure to tell those that matter to you how you feel about them ... you never know when the last time you'll be able to do just that will be.

Love to you all!

Chain of Lakes Boat Show is This Weekend

The annual Chain of Lakes Boat Show will be held at Arrowwood this weekend.  The show opens to the public at 9:00am and runs until 3:00pm.

While the event is not judged, there are both a People's Choice Award and Skipper's Choice Award given out.

Expect to see old fishing boats, canoes, outboards, inboards, and showboats on display ... also expect to see Andy Akenson there, as his dad is a classic boat aficionado.

Admission is free to the public ... so are sunburns, so bring your sunscreen!  Mr. Melby would have been proud of you.

Shear Ink Open for Business

Our classmate, Nicole Ed, has opened a brand new business in town - Shear Ink, Permanent Cosmetics by Nicole Ed, MPS.

Located in her home, Shear Ink is fully licensed, inspected, and insured.  She assures everyone that there's nothing shady about the location whatsoever ... a long process ensured that!

Shear Ink is open by appointment - consultations can be made by calling 763.222.3848 or by emailing shearink@yahoo.com ... website forthcoming.

Permanent cosmetic services offered include eyebrows ($395), eyeliner ($395 for both upper and lower, $250 for either upper or lower), lip liner ($250), and full color lips ($495).

Shear Ink is currently running a Grand Opening special of 20% off all procedures.

Nicole is ready and waiting for you and your permanent cosmetic needs and will happily take referrals from other '97ers!

Alexandria to Turn Purple Next Week!

In preparation for next week's Douglas County Relay for Life event, purple ribbons will be tied around various lampposts throughout downtown.  The Relay for Life kicks off on Friday 9 July at 6:00pm on Citizen's Field, and goes through to Saturday morning. Anyone interested in helping tie purple ribbons is requested to meet at Big Ole on Monday 5 July at 6:00pm.

Independence Day Boat Parade - Lake Carlos

The 31st Annual Lake Carlos 4th of July Boat Parade will begin at 10:30am near the Carlos/Darling bridge.  Bring your kids, your dog, your boat, and your independent spirit out to Lake Carlos for this fun, family event to celebrate our independence as a nation.

Disc Golf Returns to Alexandria

In a very controversial move, the Fillmore Park Disc Golf Course was removed last year due to many complaints by neighbors of destruction and trespassing to their property by disc golfers.  Since then, the community has been without a course, leaving the many disc golfers in the area without a local place to play.

In steps the new Y to save the day!

No decision was made as to when the equipment from the Fillmore Park Disc Golf Course would be re-installed on a northwest piece of land on the Y property, though the reports say that the disc golf course will be free to use, Y fees will not apply.

Now ... in the Gran Torino words of Clint Eastwood ... "Stay off my lawn" or lose your disc golf course.  Ha!

Welcome, Colt Jack Anderson!

On 8 June 2010, Mandy (Thiele) Anderson gave birth to her first child, Colt Jack, in Alexandria. Colt weighed 7lbs. 8oz. and measured 22" long.

Mandy, her husband Bob, and Colt are home in Alex ... and are doing very well. Please join me in congratulating Mandy and her family on this amazing event!

Welcome, Parker Bliss Olsen!

 

On 3 Jun3 2010, Christa (Kvasager) Olsen gave birth to her first child, daughter Parker Bliss, in Eugene, Oregon. Parker weighed 6lbs. 6oz. and measured 19" long.

Christa, Aaron (Class of 1998), and Parker are back home in Eugene and are doing extremely well. Please join me in congratulating the Olsens on this fabulously blessed event!

Free Root Beer Float Concert

On Saturday 26 June there will be a free concert given by the Honor Band at this year's Vikingland Band Festival, the Nøtterøy School Band from Norway, as well as our own Jefferson High School Marching Band.  The informal concert will take place at the high school, starting at 6:00pm.  Free root beer floats and face painting begin at 4:30pm. Watch as both bands will play their summer repertoire, as well as join together for a performance. Bring the kids and make this a fun family affair!

Vikingland Band Festival Marches Into Town on Sunday

The 26th annual Vikingland Band Festival will be held on Sunday 27 June 2010. 22 bands will be competing for the coveted Grand Champion award. The Honor Guard will step off from 4th and Broadway at 1:30pm.

Jerry "The Voice of Alexandria" and Margaret VanKempen, long-time supporters of the Jefferson High School Marching Band, will serve as this year's Grand Marshals.  The Nøtterøy School Band, a group all the way from Norway, will serve as this year's Honor Band with expected step off at 2:22pm.  The parade will wrap with the Mankato 77 Lancers.

From what I understand, the Alex band is much smaller this year, even tapping into 8th graders to march.  Should be interesting, given when we were in high school the band pushed 300.  Be sure to get your chairs downtown early ... the visiting crowds still begin marking their territory on Broadway on Friday night!

Celebrate Dairy Month with Lunch on the Farm

The Douglas County American Dairy Association invites the public to a “Lunch on the Farm” event at the Bill Dropik farm on Saturday 19 June 2010.

The event is slated to run from 11:00am-3:00pm.

Free cheeseburgers and malts will be served. There will also be a petting zoo, face painting and clown.

The farm is located next to the old Trophy’s on Highway 27 East by Nelson.

June is Dairy Month – an opportunity to thank the farmers who contribute so much, not only healthy food products but to the economy as well.

YMCA is open!

I'm late on posting this but still think it's exciting and relevant.

The Alexandria YMCA is open for business!  Located on Co. Rd. 82, near Tastefully Simple, the YMCA is offering plenty of classes for fitness and fun, as well as onsite daycare.

Watch for Kate Heydt while you're there ... she's a YMCA big-wig, now!

Midway Mall Cinema 9 now has 3D

Theater 6 is now equipped with 3D technology!  Currently playing in 3D is Shrek Forever After.  Proper 3D glasses are available for use at the theater and tickets cost an extra $2 per person.  Be sure to return those glasses, however ... they'll cost you $25 to keep!  3D in Alex ... I'm pretty stoked!  :)

MS TRAM rides through Alexandria

The 21st annual MS TRAM (The Ride Across Minnesota) will take place at the Douglas County Fairgrounds on July 25, 26 and 30. Alexandria is the first and last stop on the six-day bicycle tour coordinated by the Minnesota chapter of the National MS Society.

About 1,000 bicyclists are expected to participate. They’ll ride through Alexandria, Little Falls, Pequot Lakes, Wadena and Fergus Falls before finishing back in Alexandria.

The bicyclists will exit the fairgrounds between 5:00-8:00am on 26 July and are expected to return between 10:00am-3:00pm on 30 July.

Biplane Event at Chandler Field

The American Barnstormers Tour is making Alexandria its final stop in a seven-city, four-state Midwest tour on July 3-5.

The free event will feature as many as 20 historically restored vintage aircraft from the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s on display and in the air.

The public can come and go as they choose, according to Todd Roth, manager of the Alexandria Airport.

Roth added he is working on getting vintage tractors from the same time period, along with old cars, motorcycles, boats and a fire truck.

Weather permitting, all of the aircraft and vehicles will be on display from 10:00am to 6:00pm each day. Concessions will be available.

The barnstorming pilots, dressed in costumes from their plane’s era, plan to do at least one “parade of flight” on each of the three days. They may also fly over the Lake Carlos boat parade on Independence Day.

Air rides will also be offered for $60 per passenger.

For more information, visit the website, http://www.americanbarnstormerstour.com/.

Mary Howie, 53

Mary Howie, 53, mother of our classmate, Brandon Howie, died on Monday 14 June 2010.

Funeral services will be held Friday 18 June at 3:30pm at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Visitation will be the night prior at Daniel Funeral Home in St. Cloud from 4:00-8:00pm and again for one hour prior to the funeral on Friday.

Please send Brandon the love as he mourns the loss of his mom.

Sheryl Krick, 51

Sheryl Krick, mother of our classmate, Trisha Krick, died Monday 7 June 2010.

Funeral services are being held as I type this, today - 11 June 2010 - at St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Please send Trisha the love as she mourns the loss of her mother.

Welcome back, Michael Oberthur!

Michael Oberthur, our senior year German foriegn exchange student, is back in the USA for a visit!

Everyone is welcome to come to Jessie (Christensen) Borden's parents' house to welcome him back!

Date: Sunday 1 August
Time: 2:00pm
Place: 924 Scenic Drive NE, Alexandria
RSVP: Please let Jessie know if you'll be there: jessie_lee7@hotmail.com

Hope to see you there!  Remember how much fun we all had with Yoshiki at the 10 Year?  Let's do it all over again!  Only maybe this time without the saki bomb headaches!  Hahaha!

All JHS Classes Reunion Planned

Alexandria ALL Class Reunion
Start Time: Friday, June 25, 2010 at 7:00pm
End Time: Saturday, June 26, 2010 at 1:00am
Location: Muddy Boot in Forada

An ALL Class Reunion will be held on Friday, June 25, 2010 for all Alexandria Alumni.

A little information on the Friday night get together :
Creator: Tricia (Tuel) Vetrone (Class of 1990)
Place: The Muddy Boot in Forada
Time: 7:00 - ?:??

All Jefferson alums are welcome ... the more the merrier! Pass on the word to your friends from other graduating years! This is an all school get together!

The Muddy Boot boot is owned by John Brezina (Class of 1990) and Todd Snyder (Class of 1988). Come out to support one of JHS's own. This will be a very casual evening: a gathering place for seeing old friends, having a few drinks, sharing old stories and maybe even some new. I've been advised that they have a juke box with many hits from the 80's, so make sure you have your dancing shoes on! There will be no food provided but restaurant service will be available.

Support Amy Betterman

Amy Betterman will soon be riding her bicycle a long way ... 100 miles!

On 11 September 2010, Amy will be participating in a Century Bike Ride to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.  Three people close to her have been impacted by blood cancers and she's riding to make a difference.

Please visit Amy's webpage, illustrating more about her ride and including donation information, should you choose to sponsor her in this awesome event!

http://pages.teamintraining.org/mn/jjbt10/abetterman

Amy sends huge thanks to the Class of 1997!

Awake the Lakes begins on Friday!

For anyone returning to Alex over Memorial Weekend, a bevy of fun and entertainment awaits you at the annual Awake the Lakes celebration!

According to the official Awake the Lakes website (http://www.awakethelakes.com/), festival goers can nosh on ribs made by local participants and restaurants in the Ribfest contest Friday night.  And, while there, can enjoy free music and a street dance.  One of the featured bands, Whiplash, is proud to boast Dave Parsch, father of Rochelle and Nichole Parsch (Class of 1998).  The evening concludes with fireworks downtown.

On Saturday, have breakfast with Big Ole, then take the family out for events all over town - sidewalk chalk contests downtown, volleyball tournaments at Bug-a-Boo Bay, sponsored bike rides along the Central Lakes Trail, live music at Fat Daddy's, and more!

Sunday brings more entertainment - live music at Carlos Creek Winery and more stock car races at the Viking Speedway dirt track.

Finally, wrap the weekend at the pancake breakfast at First Congregational Church and a parade down Broadway (south-to-north), honoring the fallen (you'll see Macaille's husband, Mike, on honor guard duty for the parade, too!).

It's supposed to be a gorgeous weekend in the Lakes Area!  I can't wait to get out on the water and catch up with so many people who'll be home for the weekend!  See you in A-town!

Locals Seasonal Market Opening

A brand new market is opening in A-town!  In the old Giovanni's Pizza/Taco Villa building, Jaime (Olson) Jost and Kristie (Zavadil) Jost, both Class of 1995 alumnas, are opening a local food market ... meaning all of the food sold will be produced or raised in the local area. 

According to their Facebook page, meats, dairy products, eggs, and dry goods, all of which are available year round, will be sold year round. Their produce will be seasonal, meaning that when the strawberries are ready, they'll have strawberries.

The Grand Opening of the Locals Seasonal Market will be on Friday 28 May 2010 at 11:00am.  Stop by to go green a little ... shop local, reduce carbon emissions, and support your neighbors.  And remember, the Locals Seasonal Market is BYOB ... bring your own bag!

Gerald "Jerry" Vogt, 63

Gerald "Jerry" Vogt, 63, father of our classmate, Ryan Vogt, died last Saturday, 22 May 2010.

Funeral services will be held Thursday 27 May at 11:00am at First Lutheran Church.  Visitation will be the night prior at Anderson Funeral Home from 4:00-7:00pm and again for one hour prior to the funeral on Thursday.

Please send Ryan the love as he mourns the loss of his dad.

Welcom, Cody John Adams!

On 26 April 2010, Sarah (Chan) Adams gave birth to her second child (first son), Cody John, in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. Cody weighed 7lbs. 5oz. and measured 20.25" long.

Sarah, John, big sister Josie, and Cody are home in St. Francis... and are doing very well. Please join me in congratulating Sarah and her family on this amazing event!

Bug-a-Boo to Reopen Saturday

Believe the hype!  Bug-a-Boo has been sold to new owners who will keep the name in tact and are planning to reopen this Saturday.  Pontooners take note ... you'll still have a pit stop on Lake Le Homme Dieu this summer (and hopefully for many years to come)!

Ralph Swor, 84

Ralph Swor, 84, grandfather of our classmate, Jeremiah Swor, died recently.

Please send Jeremiah the love as he mourns the loss of his grandfather.

Welcome Caroline Madsen and Ethan Schnell Cottrell!

Wow, Spring really is a time for new beginnings!  I am thrilled to report the arrival of two new Class of 1997 babies!

Jana (Schnell) and Clint Cottrell are the happy new parents of fraternal twins - Ethan Schnell and Caroline Madsen!  Ethan and Caroline weighed 6lbs 1oz and 5lbs 5oz, respectively, and were born in Chicago, Illinois at 1:00am on Monday 15 March 2010 ... beware the Ides of March ... eep!  Everyone is now enjoying family time together in their Chicago home, are happy, healthy, and doing very well! 

Please join me in welcoming Jana and Clint on this doubly-blessed event!

Prayer Request: Pete Watt and Missi Marquardt

Hi everyone!  Today I'm writing with another prayer request - this time for Pete Watt's fiance, Missi Marquardt.  For the last six years, Missi has battled various forms of cancer.  She's fought back from Stage 4 ovarian cancer through various forms of chemotherapy and radiation in the past, and is now facing the fight for her life as she combats various forms of abdominal and intestinal cancer.  Please send up the love and prayers for Missi, Pete, and her two children ... all who very much need her in their lives.  To show additional support, Pete's niece has created a Facebook group titled, "Please Pray for Missi Marquardt" and check out Missi's CaringBridge website, found here: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/missimarquardt

Welcome, Jocelyn Rae Huebsch!

On 24 March 2010, Alisa (Tripp) Huebsch gave birth to her second daughter, Jocelyn Rae, in Woodbury, Minnesota. Jocelyn weighed 7lbs. 3oz. and measured 20.5" long.

Alisa, Derek, big sister Briella, and Jocelyn are home in Cottage Grove ... where the girls now outnumber the boys 3-1 at the Huebsch home.  Grandma Barb is probably pleased to see the pendulum has swung in the girls' favor!  Please join me in congratulating Alisa and her family on this amazing event!

Class of 1998 classmates update

Class:

I'd like to take a moment to update you all on two of our fellow classmates from the 1998 tour ... Beau and Erica (Blom) Polensky.  As some of you may know, Beau and Erica were married some time back.  In March 2008, Beau was diagnosed with cancer in his small intestine.  He's been fighting various forms of cancer ever since.

Beau is currently hospitalized and doctoring in Rochester, after bouncing back-and-forth from various medical facilities around the state.  Both of the Polenskys have an incredible faith and even more amazing love of each other, their two young boys, and their families and friends.

This Easter season, please say an extra prayer to whomever you believe in for health and healing for their entire family - that they may know the lucky life we all lead on this side of the hospital walls.  For more information on Beau's condition, or to leave a message of hope for them, please visit the CaringBridge website set up here: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/beau-c-phus

Sending all of you love and hugs everyday!

-MBMH

Welcome, Arianna Mae Hoium!

On 20 March 2010, Heather Lee gave birth to her first daughter, Arianna Mae, in Alexandria. Arianna weighed in at 5lbs. 15oz. - such a teenie girl, like her mama! - and measured 18 3/4" long. She arrived three weeks early - three weeks more to love - and has a ton of dark hair. Heather, her boys, and boyfriend Andrew are back home, and loving this little girl up! Please join me in congratulating Heather and her family on this beautiful, blessed event!

Welcome, Tyler Braeden Westphal!

On 2 March 2010, Brad Westphal's wife gave birth to their second son, Tyler Braeden, in Lino Lakes. Tyler weighed in at 8lbs. 5oz. and measured 21" long. All of the Westphals are back home, big brother Kellen will soon be showing Tyler the ropes and how to play hockey like a champ! Please join me in congratulating the Westphals on this beautiful, blessed event!

2010 Student Showcase

For anyone who's still in the Alexandria area - this year the school district is putting on the 1st annual Student Showcase (see flier to the right) at the new Woodland Elementary School. The event is free and will showcase students' artwork and creative efforts in grades 5-12. If you're at all interested in seeing what students are doing these days, or checking out the new school, I'd encourage you to attend. With so much funding for arts/music/creative classes getting cut, this is a terrific way for students to still explore and display their artistic efforts. See you there!

Welcome, Oliver Dylan Cornejo!

On 10 February 2010, Melanie (Boushley) Cornejo gave birth to her first son, Oliver Dylan, in Minneapolis. Oliver weighed in at 7lbs. 5oz. and measured 21" long and will forever share his birthday with his daddy.

Melanie, Chris, and Oliver are back home in South Minneapolis enjoying some wonderful bonding time. Please join me in congratulating the Cornejos on this beautiful, blessed event!

Hector Brown, 86

Hector Brown, 86, grandfather and namesake of our classmate died recently.

Please send Hector the love as he mourns the loss of his grandfather.

Two links to check out

Pat Callaghan's funeral video:
http://www.excellentmultimedia.com/site/pat-callaghan-funeral

Pat Callaghan's funeral processional:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qWmcgckv7Nk

Warren Linow, 82

Warren Linow, 82, Alexandria, died January 31, 2010 at Bethany Home.

Please send Sara Linow the love as she mourns the loss of her grandfather.

10-3 Officer Callaghan ... your work here is done

**Click on photo to enlarge**

It was a really nice service.

My husband, Mike, and I arrived more than an hour early, knowing how packed it was going to be at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Various branches of Law Enforcement and city employees were seated in the main portion of the church, to the left, while family memberes were seated to the right. Special guests of the family were ushered to an additional room to the right. Law Enforcement spouses and other people were asked to go to a room to the left. For overflow seating, the Law Enforcement gym at the Alexandria Technical College was reserved. The town was dripping with people and symbols of reverence for Pat and the Callaghan family today.

When we arrived, I saw so many familiar faces, right away. To those of you who made the trip back home, I personally was touched ... I can't imagine what Pat's family must be feeling right now, knowing he was so loved.

Pastor Wade Meyer led an excellent service ... he himself getting choked up on three occasions. Lisa Callaghan read a eulogy and a poem she wrote for Pat. Not a dry eye to be found in the place, no doubt.

When the service was over, all officers were asked to head outside first. My husband, who is a Staff Sergeant in the US Army and was stationed at Ft. Myer (Arlington, Virginia) for five years as a member of the Honor Guard, also joined them to assist with paying respect. Even though we were asked to remain in the church, I ran outside after him ... I've always been more of a rule bender, after all ... and I'm so glad I did. Outside, were law enforcement officials from all over the state of Minnesota ... Roseau, Duluth, Grant County, Stevens County, and more ... there were North Ambulance personnel ... DNR officials ... firefighters from Alexandria and Garfield ... State Troopers ... and my soldier husband, all lined up, saluting Pat's casket as it was carried out and placed into the hearse. A lone bagpiper played Amazing Grace, among other traditional songs, as the processional began.

As we walked back to our car, Jeff Callaghan, Pat's father, rolled the window down on the passenger side of the vehicle he was riding in to thank Mike for his service to our country. Jeff had never met Mike before yesterday and I'm certain didn't remember who he was. Proof positive of what a wonderful, selfless family the Callaghans are.

So many squad cars, ambulances, and fire trucks were lined up, ready to lead the staggering amount of cars out of the parking lot. I can't be certain, but I'd guess the line of vehicles was well over three miles long. As we headed down Highway 29, people were pulled over into parking lots, nose to the highway, with their lights on. No one seemed upset ... rather, they were also silently mourning. Turning onto 3rd Avenue, people had gotten out of their cars that were parked in every available street-facing parking lot and were watching the eternal line of cars. In front of Thrifty White Drug (it's no longer in the Viking Plaza Mall, for those of you that haven't been in town in awhile) were two Alex Tech Law Enforcement Program training cars ... lights flashing but silent, while both classes of future police officers and sheriff's deputies stood at perfect attention ... paying tribute to their fallen brother.

It was at that point that we peeled off from the processional, knowing that there would never be enough space for non-essential vehicles at Kinkead Cemetary.

For those of you who weren't there ... know that you were with us in spirit. For those of you in attendance, you know how powerful an afternoon it's been.

Please, JHS Class of 1997, be safe today and always so we can come together in a happier manner in the future. Sending big hugs to you all.

-MBMH

Schultzey gets married!

On Wednesday 27 January 2010, Jeremy Schultz wed his long-time girlfriend, Katie Stroup, in Mexico. A reception was held on Sunday 31 January upon their return. Congratulations, Jeremy and Katie!

Patrick Callaghan services

Visitation for Patrick Callaghan is from 4:00-8:00pm at Anderson Funeral Home on Tuesday 2 February 2010.

Funeral services begin at 1:00pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Wednesday 3 February 2010, with an additional viewing one hour prior.

Only the Good Die Young

For a long time I've been wanting to put together a website for our class. Not having the necessary web skills and not wanting to burden anyone else ... well, I "excused" this thought away for far too long.

Since Friday it's been gnawing at me more that I really need to get this started. So, start it I have!

Sadly, it's going to be on quite a somber note. Hearing about Pat's snowmobile accident on Friday night was tough to stomach. I'm sure it was for many of you, too. It seems like we've had so many classmates go ... and all too soon. And while I could ask myself "Why us" over and over and over ... we all know that we'll never have the answer.

So today, I take stock in all of you. We have a pretty amazing class, if I do say so myself. Written off by teachers, parents, and administration alike ... I think we all turned out pretty darn well!

In the coming years, I'd like to ask for your help. As you're getting married ... having babies ... celebrating milestones ... or if there are other things that the class should know about, please let me know. This blog is your blog ... everyone's information is fair game. After my jhsclassof1997@hotmail.com account decided to punk out on me at 2:30am on Saturday, I figured that there were better means of communicating the same message to the masses. So, please add this to your list of commonly checked websites for the most up-to-date information.

Love you all ... missing you so much right now.