Features (1071)
FAMILY OF TEACHERS — Jennifer Fredrickson, the new elementary music and choir instructor at NRHEG, was born into a family of teachers. (Star Eagle photo by Kathy Paulsen)
New teacher has a passion for her job
By KATHY PAULSEN
Staff Writer
Music could be called the language of the world.
Who doesn't listen to and enjoy music or at least have some interest regardless of the language or tempo?
Think about it. What one thing that is a part of every country speaks of joy, happiness, devotion, or movement, more than music? We all enjoy a little toe tapping, moving to the rhythm and being moved by the sound.
Music is that important, and we are lucky to have one of the best music makers available to teach our children at NRHEG how much music matters.
Inquiring when Jennifer Fredrickson, the new elementary music and choir teacher at NRHEG, knew that she wanted to be a teacher, she quickly replied, since third or fourth grade.
Fredrickson was born into a family of teachers. Both her parents were teachers. Her family believes in education, and have made it their passion for many years.
Fredrickson continued to keep the thought of being a teacher in her mind and, when she progressed into junior high, she decided that she wanted to be a music teacher.
Freeborn-based group helps pick up the tab for veterans
Written by Jim Lutgens
HELPING VETERANS — Gene Millang, left, Secretary-Treasurer of the Freeborn-based Labor Day Harvest Festival Association, shakes hands with Mike Diemer, representing the Miller-Coors Brewing Co., as Chris Jacobson looks on. Millang presented Diemer about 45,000 aluminum can tabs to assist veterans programs. (Star Eagle photo by Jody Wynnemer)
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
For the second year in a row, the MillerCoors Brewing Company is sponsoring a program to help the country’s veterans. It’s called “Give a Veteran a Piece of the High Life.” For every aluminum can tab or bottle cap collected, the company will donate 10 cents toward veteran programs. The Freeborn-based Labor Day Harvest Festival Association decided to help out and started collecting tabs.
“We have had people from all over this area helping out,” said Gene Millang, secretary-treasurer of the association. “Folks from Freeborn, Hartland and New Richland have been collecting tabs. We have somewhere in the neighborhood of 40-50 thousand tabs and caps collected. As I understand it, this will probably be the largest singular donation within our region.”
Through the program, veterans of Iran and Afghanistan will have the opportunity to enjoy experiences such as attending Major League ball games, NASCAR races, or enjoying concerts and fishing adventures. It’s not just about having a hot dog at a game; it is an opportunity to connect with fellow veterans in a fun and memorable way. Last year, MillerCoors donated $1 million which enabled thousands of veterans to enjoy a variety of experiences. This year’s tab collection period ends on September 30.
THE BEAT GOES ON — Drummers Cory Roeker and Nate Wallin perform with the NRHEG Marching Band at the Waseca Marching Classic Sept. 17 (Star Eagle photo by Chris Schlaak)
Band earns state recognition
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
The accolades keep coming for the New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva Marching Band as they garnered two prestigious awards over the summer. The first came at the Minnesota State Fair as they were selected the first-place award winner over 10 other bands in their class. They followed up with another first-place showing at the Waseca Marching Classic held on September 17. Now in his third year, director Tim Siewert and the 53-member group are starting to see the rewards of their hard work and dedication.
“The kids are used to me now,” said Siewert. “The first week of my first year, they didn’t know what to expect. I try to motivate each band member and push them to improve. I also have a handful of good student leaders who want to see the band succeed.”
Anyone living in New Richland near the school undoubtedly has heard the band rehearsing. The sound of the drums carry throughout the small burg, especially in the summer mornings. Siewert and his charges can be seen parading up and down the city streets perfecting their moves and sound. Behind the scenes, there is a group who works just as hard assisting in the band’s success.
RIGHT AT HOME — Andy Peterson is comfortable in his first year as a teacher and coach at NRHEG High School. (Star Eagle photo by Rachel Rietsema)
New teacher, coach feels right at home at NRHEG
By RACHEL RIETSEMA
Staff Writer
The NRHEG district is a perfect fit for new social studies teacher Andy Peterson.
Every time he unlocks the door to his new classroom, Peterson can’t wait to dig into the material with his 10th and 11th-grade students.
“I’m always moving about the room,” Peterson said. “I must be accessible for them. Even when we are doing a group project, I need to be a leader for the groups, a backup facilitator, more or less.”
Keeping the students engaged and focused can be challenging at times. That’s why he always comes prepared with an outline and a specific goal for the day.
“In the few weeks I’ve had with them so far, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t,” Peterson said. “Today’s generation likes to be entertained, so as a teacher, you have to be more hands-on nowadays.”
High school students are his ideal age group. Being able to have grownup discussions with them really brings his profession to the next level.
The Quad Cities Baseball Association bean drive will occur Saturday, Oct. 1. In case of rain, an alternate date will be Oct. 8.
The QCBA is trying to raise money for a new outfield fence at Legion Field. The old fence was never placed properly in the ground and has become a danger to players. A new, higher fence is in the plans, but the cost is $25-30,000. The old fence can still be used if placed properly, and the QCBA plans to donate it to the school district for use on the junior high field in Ellendale.
QCBA players will drive around in pickup trucks with QCBA signs on the side, beginning at 11 a.m. on Oct. 1. If you would like a QCBA member to stop by for sure, contact Mark Querna, Jeff Reese or Mark Domeier. Farmers can also make donations when bringing beans to either WFS in New Richland or Sun Opta in Ellendale. You can do this at any time, not just on Oct. 1. Just tell them how many bushels you would like to donate to the QCBA, and they will figure that dollar figure for you. The QCBA is a non-profit organization, so any donations can be used as a write-off on your taxes.
The QCBA would like to thank everyone for considering youth baseball during harvest season and for working to keep our communities viable through youth activities!
New Richland City Council
By JODY WYNNEMER
Staff Writer
All members were in attendance for the New Richland City Council meeting on Monday evening, September 26. The evening’s agenda and consent agenda items were approved. No public hearings, ordinances or resolutions were on the docket.
City maintenance supervisor Ryan Nissen was present and inquired about the council’s intentions regarding crack filling of city streets. After discussion, it was determined due to possible weather concerns, crack filling could possibly take place next year. Nissen asked about a concrete slab for the recently purchased shed at Legion Field. Estimates will be obtained as the council wished to have the shed in place before winter.
Nissen mentioned prices on the new tractor, which is expected to be delivered in May 2012. The purchase is part of the WWTF upgrade package.
PeopleService representative Brad Field gave the council an update on the NE 3rd Street lift station replacement. After a delay, work should commence soon. Televising of the Dogwood sewer will take place as soon as a date can be coordinated.
Ellendale City Council
By SCOTT GROTH
Contributing Writer
The Ellendale City Council met Thursday September 22 with council members Helland, Reiter, Goebel and Groth present. Mayor Engel was absent. Also attending the meeting were Jeremy Reese, Steele County Sheriff Lon Thiele, county auditor Laura Ihrke, Ken Cafourek, county commissioner Bruce Kubicek, Wes and Eric from Bolten Menk, Roger Swearingen and Clerk Louks.
After approving the agenda for the evening, the council recognized Thiele and Ihrke. At the council’s last meeting, a discussion was held about how the council could reduce the budget. The council discussed the possibility of cutting a portion from the sheriff’s patrol.
Reiter stated the council feels there is a real value to the added patrol hours the city receives from the county. Louks told the group the city has budgeted around $30,000 for 2012. Ihrke said of that amount about $5000 is designated for the purchase of a new patrol car. She stated the county has also been billing the city for the fuel costs incurred during the added protection hours.
The NRHEG High School Marching Band, under the direction of Tim Siewert, marches during 24th Annual Waseca Marching Classic Parade Saturday in Waseca. NRHEG placed first for the sixth time in the last seven years at the event. See next week’s Star Eagle for a feature story on the band. (Star Eagle photos by Carol Jolly)
More than 400 turn out for Vista’s Party in the Park
Written by Jim Lutgens
GRAND PRIZES —Vista Pastor Steve Thompson, center, is pictured with grand prize winners Allan Kraay, left, and Hayleigh Williams during the Third Annual Party in the Park Wednesday, Sept. 14. (Submitted photo)
By CAROL JOLLY
Staff Writer
A glorious day of celebrating "Community" took place on Wednesday, September 14th, in New Richland at City Park as Vista Evangelical Church held its third annual Party in the Park.
People came from near and far to attend this family fun event. Even though the weather was a bit brisk, community members from Mantorville, Waseca, Albert Lea, Freeborn, Hartland, Ellendale, Wells, Geneva, Bricelyn and New Richland were not deterred.
"I have been here every year," said Brad Field. "More people come to the Party in the Park every year."
"The first year this event drew about 200 people, last year approximately 300," said Vista Pastor Steve Thompson. "And this year was a great night to enjoy a meal with 400 of our friends and neighbors."
Vista Evangelical Covenant Church of rural New Richland hosts the event to bring the community together. They want others to be encouraged to take part in the New Richland community, as well.
"The New Richland community is a blessing to us," said Thompson. "We want everyone to experience that."
In addition, they have games for the kids to play. They had super size kickball, super size football, and slight shot water balloon competitions. Other activities included face painting and a bounce house, which is also available to rent from the church.
"It gives the children a fun and healthy environment to be active in," said Thompson.
The Party in the Park event also benefits the New Richland Area Food Shelf. All non-perishable food items and monies donated go directly to the local food shelf.
"This year, guest contributions helped raise over $650 and 300 pounds of food for the New Richland Area Food Shelf,” said Thompson.
Area businesses also helped in the Party in the Park annual event. They contributed prizes such as gift certificates and numerous other prizes.
The grand prize winner in the adult division was Allan Kraay of New Richland. He won half a hog. The kids’ grand prize winner was Hayleigh Williams of Hartland. Other prize winners were announced every 20 minutes from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
"The Party in the Park brings everybody out to meet their neighbors," said Ruth Pettey. "Kids get to unwind after school, and hopefully will bring people to our church."
"The food is great, and this is good fun," said Julie Knutson.
91 YEARS YOUNG — Palmer Thompson, the oldest living member of Central Freeborn Lutheran Church, looks in on kids in the bounce house during the church’s 150th celebration Sunday, Sept. 11. (Star Eagle photo by Carol Jolly)
By RACHEL RIETSEMA
Staff Writer
Dianne Thompson, Mary Ann Atchison and Teri Rauenhort chaired the Central Freeborn Lutheran Church’s 150th anniversary committee, but they would never take all the credit for its rising success.
It took everyone’s help for this sesquicentennial occasion to become a time filled with laughter and reminiscence.
“Our theme for this September 11 day was ‘On our way rejoicing,’” Thompson said. “It was an occasion where we had several members that moved away come back. It was like a family reunion.”
A total of eight former interim and senior pastors also returned to reunite with their former perish. Excited to see all the familiar faces, they performed a short greeting during the worship service.
“When the pastors started RSVP-ing with yeses, more and more people signed up to come,” Rauenhorst said. “I think the closer it got, the more excited everyone became.”
Approximately 180 guests then spent the afternoon engaged in a myriad of activities. Members had the opportunity to try their hand at trivia questions and a matching picture game.
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For NRHEG students, it’s time to dance again
Written by Jim LutgensBy CAROL JOLLY
Staff Writer
For NRHEG High School students, it’s time to dance again.
"I do not know the last time NRHEG had a homecoming dance," said Jennie Johnson. "It's been over eight years ago."
Jennie and her husband, Jeff, of rural new Richland, have stepped up and taken action to assure students that high school experience.
After the NRHEG homecoming football game on September 30, the Johnsons are hosting a "Homecoming Barn Dance," for students.
The Johnsons have secured additional insurance for the event. They’ve also made accommodations for parents during the dance. They have turned their three-stall garage into an informal parental meet and greet area.
By RACHEL RIETSEMA
Staff Writer
Due to some scheduling conflicts, the Geneva City Council’s monthly meeting convened a day early on September 12. All members were present except Councilman Janell Tufte.
Mayor Steve Bailey promptly called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. Councilman Taff Worrell made a motion to approve minutes, financial report and bills payable. Fellow councilman Jim Beenken seconded and the motion carried.
Rodger Hill then approached the council to request a building permit. Hill presented plans for an 8 by 16 foot deck to be built on the south side of his house at 209 E. Main Street. Beenken made a motion to approve. Councilman Rich Weckwerth seconded and Hill’s building permit was granted.
Thereafter, all councilmen reviewed the U.S. Cable franchise agreement. Weckwerth made a motion to sign the extension and corporate transfer agreement. Worrell seconded and the motion carried.
NRHEG High School homecoming queen and king candidates for 2011 were announced last week. Front from left: Dustin Esplan, David Lassahn, Seth Petranek, Matt Carlson and Jacob Staloch. Back: Tiara Robran, Tori Raimann, Anna Schlaak, Harlee Vokoun and Lexi Wayne. Coronation is set for Monday, Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the high school gym. The Panthers face Lake Crystal/Wellcome Memorial in the homecoming football game Friday, Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. (Star Eagle photo by Chris Schlaak)
ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR ONE — NRHEG Elementary teachers and paraprofessionals participate in a Project Charlie/In-Service at the Media Center in Ellendale Tuesday, Sept. 6. (Star Eagle photo by Carol Jolly)
NRHEG Elementary holds in-service with original Project Charlie author
By CAROL JOLLY
Staff Writer
Snickers lavishly echoed amongst the fourth-graders as Mrs. Lavery entered the classroom. Dressed in a Davy Cockett hat, clodhoppers and potato sack dress, Lavery’s body reeled of unshrinkable exuberance. “Good morning, students,” she greeted.
"Teaching in an over exaggerated way helps bring kids’ defenses down," said Marion London, Independent Education Consultant. "It allows them to laugh, and see things from a different perspective."
On Tuesday afternoon, September 6, the NRHEG Elementary teachers and paraprofessionals participated in a Project Charlie/Anti-Bullying In-Service at the Media Center in Ellendale. This in-service was conducted by London, an original author of the Project Charlie program.
The Project Charlie program is geared toward creating positive youth development. NRHEG Elementary has incorporated the Project Charlie program into their 2011-12 curriculums for all students.