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2018 Unsung Hero December
Ramsey County 4-H Shooting Sports Volunteers
The Ramsey County 4-H Shooting Sports volunteers have been selected as our Unsung Heroes. The Shooting Sports program began in Ramsey County in 2005 with five kids. Thirteen years later, the program enrollment is at 174 kids and nine of the past 13 years they have had participants advance to the National 4-H Shooting Sports competition. This incredible growth and success is due to one single factor – AMAZING VOLUNTEERS! In 2018 alone, the volunteers logged 1824 hours!
All of the volunteers have a great passion for the sport but one common thread among them is the pride they have in helping the kids develop skills that will make them successful in life. Seeing the kids grow as individuals drives them to keep giving back. "Our kids learn how to set goals, follow rules, become leaders, develop self-confidence and learn how to perform under pressure," said volunteer Doug Darling. "The program creates mature individuals with high integrity. Characteristics that are developed just through doing something they enjoy."
Operating a firearm isn't something taken lightly by the volunteers. Safety is their number one priority. Countless hours are spent teaching the basics of safety and making sure the kids understand its importance. Most kids don't have experience operating a firearm so they are taught how to do it correctly from day one. "By the end of their time in 4-H, a majority of the kids handle the firearms better than their parents," stated volunteer Rick Jorgenson.
The four main disciplines of the Ramsey County 4-H Shooting Sports are Shotgun, Archery, Air Rifle and Air Pistol. Rick Jorgenson and Doug Darling are two volunteers that have been with the program since its inception and it doesn't appear they have any future plans of retiring. "When we started the first year, we just wanted to share our love of the sport with others. This is a passion of ours, so we were glad to get involved," said Jorgenson. Little did they realize how the program would grow throughout the past thirteen years. "We started small and laid the groundwork to accommodate as many kids as possible," said Darling.
More volunteers are always welcome because volunteers are the foundation of our programs. Former 4-H members have even come back and started volunteering. "Having former students come back and volunteer brings a whole new perspective to the program. They can share their experiences with others to help them succeed," said Jorgenson. New volunteers need to complete a one-day certification training program. The air rifle and air pistol certification is administered by Jose Figueroa or Rick Jorgenson, both 4-H Shooting Sports volunteers that have went on for more national level training so they can help our community and the State get more people involved. "I enjoy teaching so when there was an opportunity to become and instructor, I decided to give it a try," stated Figueroa.
One of their biggest challenges is finding enough space to accommodate all the kids. The club currently uses the Lake Region Shooting Sports shooting range for its Shotgun program. The archery range is located on the south side of town behind Ed's Bait Shop and the Memorial Building basement in Devils Lake is used for Air Rifle, Air Pistol and Archery in the winter months. "We have a waiting list of kids that want to participate," stated Cindy Olson, of NDSU Extension. "Because our program operates during the winter months, we only have a limited amount of indoor space. We hold as many sessions as possible but basically we run out of time in the day! It's a great problem to have and we are always looking for ways to maximize the facilities we do use."
Many of the volunteers participate because they have children involved but it isn't uncommon for them to keep volunteering once their children are finished with the program. "My son hasn't been in 4-H for eight years but 4-H has become party of my life," said Darling. Others participate to get involved and meet new people. Jose Figueroa moved to Devils Lake from Puerto Rico 12 years ago. "I enjoy the sport and have met so many people because of my involvement. I truly feel a part of this community. The smiles on the kids' faces after they shoot keep me coming back every year!" stated Figueroa.
Thank you to all of the volunteers.
Air pistol instructors: José Figueroa, Rick Jorgenson, Doug Darling, Connie Jorgenson
Air Rifle Instructors: Rick Jorgenson, Norm Hanson, Matthew Mack, Doug Darling, Jose' Figueroa, Derek Melcer, Russell Gerhardt, Jeff Hintz, Jeff Vaagen, Heath Alexander, Brad Deplazes, Al Stiven, Bryston Berg
Archery Instructors: Norm Hanson, Roger Fritz, Jason Hanson, Kelly Durbin, Heath Alexander, Colleen Graue, Dave McElhrany, Marcus Dahle, Melissa Elsperger, Dan Lebrun, Tammy Meyer, Rob Dahl, Dan Driessen, Jason Carlson
Shotgun Instructors: Doug Darling, Leo Locker, Norm Howard, Dave McElhrany, Darin MacDonald, Dave Steffen, Jeff Frith, Jim Wang, Devan Sundeen, Warren Blanchfield, Spencer Frith, Dylan Durbin
Your commitment and dedication to the youth in our community is remarkable. Keep up the good work.
2018 Unsung Hero November
Beth and Leo Saylor
A passion for helping others is a phrase that describes Leo and Beth Sayler. As with many Unsung Heroes, they were hesitant to accept the award because they said they really don't do that much!
Leo and Beth met while attending college at NDSU where they both graduated in 1972. They have been married for 47 years and live on the farmstead where Beth grew up, near Minnewaukan. Their three children (Jeremy, Jessica and Jason) all graduated from Crookston, MN, where they lived before moving to the Lake Region in 2001.
Both Beth and Leo had successful careers and are now enjoying retirement. They are involved in many activities and Leo said, "It all started with our churches. We both grew up with caring parents, going to church and getting involved. So as adults, we followed the same path. One thing lead to another and pretty soon we were involved in many things."
Beth has been a leader at Trinity Free Lutheran Church for the past 17 years. She served as chairman for many years and is currently the treasurer, a position Leo held for ten years. Leo is now a member of First United Methodist Church where he is chairman of the Finance Committee and is a member of the Administrative Council. Leo is also a member of the choir and has assisted with the confirmation class and vacation bible school. He has also been a delegate for the local church to the District Convention.
Beth has been a major contributor to the Lake Region Community Shelter where she serves on the Board of Directors and has been involved since the beginning. This is a project which is very close to her heart. Beth's professional career included providing guidance and support to women and children so she is able to pass on her valuable skills to those in need at the shelter. Beth says "It's very rewarding to help women and children. Listening and offering advice comes natural to me and I find it easy to make a connection with our guests." Beth also coordinates the volunteers who prepare the meals for the guests. Leo and Beth cover the over-night shifts at the shelter at least once per week where they come at 11:00 pm and stay awake for eight hours to monitor the welfare of the people staying at the shelter. Beth also has grant writing experience so she has written grants to support the shelter.
Leo is on the Board of Directors at the Hope Center. He volunteers on a regular basis and also helps to coordinate some repairs, bids, and other activities.
The Amachi mentoring program is one of Leo's favorite activities. Caring adults (mentor) are matched with a child (mentee) from the program. "We spend time together each week and I try to teach him skills that will help him in life. It's very rewarding to see the child grow and mature. This is probably my favorite volunteer activity!" Leo encourages other people to get involved in this program because children are our future.
Leo and Beth have always shared a love for music and when their children were young, they would play piano and guitar and their kids would sing along. It was easy for them to get involved in the Lake Region Concert Association where they have been members for several years. Leo has served on the Board of Directors and has served as treasurer for the past five years. Their involvement in the LR Concert Association led them to the Silver Sensations, a four-part harmonizing musical group. This group sings at the local nursing homes on a regular basis.
Leo and Beth have both donate blood and Beth has worked with United Blood Services to coordinate local drives for many years. They also ring the bell for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign each year, deliver meals to seniors and help with the regional 4H Youth Safety Camp.
They also have found time to give to the Sons of Norway. Leo held the treasurer position for two years and was very active in the Sons of Norway 100 year celebration in 2017.
It is truly amazing how this wonderful couple so generously donates their time to help others. Thank you, Beth and Leo Sayler!
2018 Unsung Hero October
Dennis Olson
Dennis Olson was born and raised in Devils Lake and remembers his father dragging him to volunteer activities as a child. Little did he know what an impact this would have on him as an adult.
One of the first volunteer activities he remembers was helping his dad with Lake Region Winter Sports. His father was the president in the early 60's and was instrumental in starting the Ski Hill which was located along Highway 57 on the Spirit Lake Reservation. Dennis put in many hours as a child doing the grunt work to get the ski hill up and operating. As an adult, Dennis took over managing the club and it was during this time he realized how a community can come together to get something accomplished. The club wanted to purchase a t-bar but the cost was almost prohibitive. Dennis worked with Lynn Hoghaug at Ramsey National Bank and they gave them a loan for about half of what was needed to get the t-bar installed and operating. The other half was covered by people within the community who stepped up and gave of their time, money and talent to get the t-bar installed. It was a lot of manual work and long hours, but they did it. That's when he realized Devils Lake was a community where it's big enough to get things done but small enough to get people involved! Unfortunately, the Devils Lake flooding caused the Ski Hill to close in 1997.
The Lake Region Community Fund was another volunteer activity where he served two-three year terms. The LRCF supports many non-profits within our community and Dennis enjoyed working within the community to raise funds. The annual golf tournament which has become a great fundraiser for the organization was one of his favorite events.
Dennis is entering his 43rd year as a volunteer firefighter for the Devils Lake Fire Department. He was a truck captain for many years and has been the treasurer for the past 30 years. Dennis has spent countless hours attending fire training as well as helping with the DLVFD annual fishing tournament. He also became a licensed pyrotech so he and other volunteers could put on the annual 4th of July fireworks display in Devils Lake. Dennis is disappointed the show has been discontinued but he said it's very dangerous work and the time commitment was getting to be too much. People may not realize these volunteers put on shows in other communities to help pay for the show in Devils Lake each year. They still have the equipment so in the future if people want it to start up again, it will be possible.
The Elks Club is another organization that benefits from the talents of Dennis. He became a member in 1972 and fittingly, his father was his sponsor. In recent years, the Elks membership has grown and Dennis is very pleased to see this happen. Each Thursday he spends his entire day at the Elks helping the manager prepare the evening meal. Dennis smiles and says, through this volunteering, I realized I have a love for baking! Anyone is welcome to come and eat on Thursday evenings – no membership needed. If people enjoy the food and good conversation, their mission is accomplished!
Dennis is also the Chairman of the Devils Lake Regional Airport Authority which just received the ND Commercial Airport of the Year! He has been part of this for the past seven years and has thoroughly enjoyed it. He said we always need to be doing, learning and keeping busy.
As we were wrapping up our conversation, Dennis remembered when the Lake Region Winter Sports ended, they sold their groomer to the Devils Lake Fire Department. The money from that sale was used to set up an Endowment at Lake Region State College in memory of Lake Region Winter Sports and his dad, Cliff Olson. Each year he enjoys presenting a scholarship to a student at LRSC.
Dennis and his wife Cathy are now both retired but slowing down doesn't appear to be in his future. When he does have some free time, Dennis enjoys downhill skiing and spending time at the lake with his family and friends. Thank you Dennis for all you have done and are still doing to make the Lake Region a wonderful place!
2018 Unsung Hero September
Vernon R. Moen
Lake Chevrolet Buick GMC and Ramsey National Bank & Trust are excited to congratulate Vernon Moen on being our newest Unsung Hero!
Vernon R. Moen, also known as "Vern" or "Uncle Vern" by most, is a well-known character whose family has deep roots in the Lake Region.
The Moen farm is located on the banks of Devils Lake on Six Mile Bay and has been in the family for 130 plus years. It's still in the family and his brother, Arnold, lives there.
Vern grew up in Devils Lake, the youngest of 10 children. He graduated from Devils Lake Central High School in 1965, attended two years at Lake Region Junior College (now known as Lake Region State College) and then went on to Valley City State Teacher College. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969, spending two years serving his country including one year overseas in Vietnam in artillery.
After returning home he worked summers at the State Highway Department and started his career working on the railroad in Aug. 1974.
He retired Sept. 1, his 60th birthday, after 33 years with the railroad, moving back to Devils Lake in November of that year, 2007.
Vern was always the guy who just popped up to lend a hand if family or friends were working on a special DIY project, roofing, siding, painting or some other home improvements.
An avid bicycle rider even now, he would cruise by and stop to lend a hand if he saw work needing to be done.
After a big snowfall, Vern would often just show up and shovel a sidewalk that needed shoveling, especially if he knew that the homeowner might need a hand, because they had recently had surgery or were getting "up there" in years.
He rigged up an extension for his leaf blower so he could also clean out debris from eve troughs and downspouts for numerous people throughout the community, never asking for pay and often running off before the homeowner could catch him to thank him.
On icy mornings, long before the sun was up, he would be out shaking ice melt onto sidewalks so his elderly friends and relatives didn't have to risk falling.
His volunteer help has extended to his church family where he is vital help for each rummage sale and bazaar at St. Olaf Lutheran Church. Some of the ladies he works with there threaten to cancel these events if Vern isn't able to help. He is also on his ninth year of a one-year commitment to be head usher at the 8:30 worship service at St. Olaf.
For a number of years he volunteered for RSVP at the college because Diane Gunderson asked him to help.
Throughout Devils Lake he is well-known for his random acts of kindness, cleaning snow off a neighbor's car, mowing, weeding and trimming lawns.
Many who aren't related to him call him "Uncle Vern" because they wish he was their uncle.
For the past five years he has helped with Aneta Days in many different ways, too, because he has a niece who manages the White Tail Bar and another who manages the Aneta Cafe (next door).
Wherever he can help, you'll find him there. He often says that although he's been retired for 10 years, he needs to get a job so he can take a day off. That about sums it up in a nutshell.
2017 Unsung Hero September
Stacy and Darin MacDonald
Unsung heroes for September are Stacy and Darin MacDonald. The MacDonalds have both been very active in community endeavors. One of the nominators said "Stacy tackles many projects that benefit our community and the individuals Lake Region Corporation serves."
As a 19 year plus Lake Region Corp employee, she has gone above and beyond the call of duty after hours volunteering to enrich the lives of people LRC serves. These activities have required her to organize and/or supervise dances or bowling outings. She has also been a member and captain of the LRC's Relay for Life team for many years.
As a Miki's school of dance mom and fan, she has worn many hats. She helped with organizing parents and assisted with ticket sales or serving treats. She was also a lead organizer in fundraising efforts to take the team to Disney World.
Stacy has been very active at St Olaf Lutheran Church. She serves on the St Olaf Church Council, Youth and Family Ministry board and Altar Guild. In 2015 she was the St Olaf Church Council President. She has dedicated many hours to family fellowship events and youth fundraising activities. Numerous times she has been there to help with an event when it is not her designated time to do so. She chaperoned for the ELCA youth gathering at New Orleans.
Stacy is a certified CPR and First Aid instructor, she was a Girl Scout troop leader for 3 years.
Darin was a founding member of the 4H Club Shotgun program. The program was founded in 2005 with the encouragement of Dan Driesen. Darin along with Norman Howard, Doug Darling, and Leo Locker founded this highly successful program.
They have entered many state and national meets and have not lost a state championship meet since they began in 2005. People at state meets wonder what is in Devils Lake that makes the program so successful. Those of us who know the participants and instructors can easily answer that question, it is the ability of these amazing teachers to inspire their students. They know how to instill excellence in a way that makes it fun.
A parent recently stated, I appreciate that my children have this exposure to excellence. How wonderful it is to be learning life skills such as self-control, respect for others and learning to work as a team.
The program started with 5 students and has grown to include 40 students. The staff is all volunteer and they contribute time four days per week plus weekends.
Darin and Stacy are the proud parents of a daughter, Elizabeth, who is now an Academic Advisor at college. Elizabeth participated in the shotgun program from the beginning when it was founded by her father and his associates. Their family has enjoyed being involved in the program together.
Volunteering in the community has been a tradition in the MacDonald family. This began many years ago with Darin's Grandparents. Their generosity was an inspiration to him. He was raised knowing the importance of contributing to the community. How fortunate for our community that Darin and Stacy are carrying on this great tradition.
2017 October Unsung Hero
Stella Papachek
October Unsung Hero, Stella Papachek was born and raised in the Warwick area. After graduating from high school and attending business school she was married. She and her husband lived in a number of places before returning to the Lake Region. Since returning home she has been an enthusiastic volunteer.
She has been actively involved at the Hope Center. Three times she stepped forward to help them out when they were without a Director. When a Director was hired she resumed her role as an active volunteer. Stella has also done grant writing for the Hope Center.
The Hope Center first opened its doors in 2014. Stella began her first stint as interim manager in 2015. At that time they had 100 families participating. It has now grown to serve over 300 households with 872 people in those households.
Some donations come from the Stuff A Truck drive and also from food collections from other local businesses. The local college class, Precision Ag raises a garden and brings their produce in the fall. Volunteers throughout the community are generous with their produce, donations of non-perishable food, money and their time.
She is active at St Olaf Lutheran church. She is currently the Stewardship Chairperson for WELCA. She also works with a group that makes quilts for international distribution and local crisis situations. There are 12 to 25 ladies who help every Tuesday from 9 am to 11:30 am. It takes many participants to create each quilt, Stella is a seamstress, however, it's not necessary to be able to sew, anyone is welcome to participate. All participants enjoy the fellowship as well as the good feeling of knowing they are helping to make a difference.
They are currently shipping 168 quilts to the Lutheran World Relief program. These quilts took the participants 6 months to make. Besides the time invested all the fabric is donated. Stella says "When I volunteer I feel I receive much more than I give". Sandra Lunde, another quilter says "we enjoy the fellowship, it makes volunteering so enjoyable while we are working together to make a difference for others.
Stella has been involved in Pioneer Daughters. She assisted in cataloging their antique articles and photos at the recently remodeled Fort Totten State Historic site. She has a passion for history. She is involved in the DAR, (Daughters of the American Revolution) and the Mayflower club, whose membership consists of people whose ancestors came over on the Mayflower.
Stella has co-authored a book named "Warwick Memories" published in 2002. Her co-authors were Cherry Monson, Cherrie Lane Anderson, and Betty Westby.
Her interest in history knows no bounds. Recently Stella participated in the investigation of an abandoned cemetery south of Warwick where graves have been found by using dowsing rods.
In receiving this award, Stella represents the great number of selfless people who give so generously of themselves. Whether it be the Hope Center, or giving quilts to people of the Lake Region and beyond, or preserving our history, they make a difference in so many lives. That's what unsung heroes do.
2016 December Unsung Hero
The Devils Lake Music Club, Unsung Hero recipient for December, was founded in 1906. This means that for more than a century, the dedicated members of the Music Club have been promoting music in the community.
The list of past presidents of the Music Club shows that a broad cross section of the community has held an awareness of the enlightening power of music and how important it is to our quality of life. (Can you imagine what Christmas be without music?)
Presently Dr. Kristin Kenner and Kathy Homan co-chair the Music Club. For the past ten years, Kathy has served on the Executive Board, as Secretary and also as Treasurer. Kathy says, "I enjoy music. It is an important part of my life. I want to do what I can to enable others to enjoy music as I do". This statement epitomizes the goal of all Music Club members.
The past 25 years, the Music Club has hosted the Federated Music Club Festival for students in the Lake Region. For forty years, the Club has given scholarships to local students to attend the Peace Gardens Music Club. For many young people, attendance at this camp has been a life changing experience.
Through the years the Music Club has sponsored a variety of projects to raise money for the scholarships. They serve cookies and bars during intermission at Community Orchestra concerts. They are always delighted with the generosity of those who donate. Kathy says, "We are grateful for the kindness and bigheartedness of the people of the Lake Region. Individuals and businesses give generously each year in support of the Music Club scholarships."
The Music Club has a history of defining needs and promoting projects that will improve the quality of life for the people of the Lake Region. In 1947 the Music Club sponsored a concert to raise money to purchase a grand piano for the auditorium at DL Central High School. They wanted to establish a Community Concert Association but this was not possible until the community had a grand piano. They achieved this goal and launched the concert series we enjoy to this day.
Kristin said, "Once again our community has a critical need. Our school offers many tremendous programs of study. But it seems unfair that the students who have worked so diligently must perform in the school lunch room…the 'lunchatorium', as it has been called! "
Music Club Secretary, Betty Soper, said, "It breaks my heart that these wonderful students have to perform where they do".
Kristin added, "The proposed facility can do much to improve the quality of life for everyone in the Lake Region. It will modernize the vo-tech experiences giving opportunities to pursue careers in TV, Radio, News, Reporting, Video production and the like. In short it will move the school into the 21t century."
Individually Music Club members of the Music Club are doing what they can to voice their support for the Fine Arts Center. As they have done through the years, these enlightened music lovers are doing their part to keep a song in the hearts of the people of the Lake Region.
2016 October Unsung Hero
When Trish Schindele, October Unsung Hero, was asked why she devotes so many volunteer hours to numerous organizations in the community, she said, "I believe in the Golden Rule." She wisely treats others the way she would like to be treated.
Verna Brown says, "Trish is a powerhouse! She has been a valued chaperone for several Musical Tours when her daughter has been involved. If you need something done, she is the one to ask."
This meant a trip to Europe with the Northern Ambassadors of Music, another trip to NYC for a Choral performance in Carnegie Hall and a trip to California when her talented daughter performed in concert in Long Beach for the American Kodaly Educators.
Trish grew up in Devils Lake and graduated for DLHS. She lived away from the Lake Region for a number of years. But it is our great good fortune that this capable individual decided to return home.
When she first returned home, she was a D.J. at KDLR. When she married Agronomist Jay Schindele in 1995 she became involved in the computer aspects of his business.
Jay and Trish are the proud parents of two children. Their son, Mathew is a student at NDSU and their daughter, Rachel, is a Junior at DLHS. When Matthew and Rachel were students at St. Josephs Elementary School, Trish enjoyed being involved with school activities.
Trish served as President of the saint Joseph School Board for one of her two terms on the Board and has been involved in their Strategic Planning Committee. She has served as coordinator for the highly successful Fund Raiser, Race for Education , that raises up to $50,000.00 yearly. She also likes being in the classroom working on computer skills with kindergarten students. Trish's skills at computer design are phenomenal. The same can be said of her desire to share and inspire.
She enjoys her involvement at St. Josephs Catholic Church where she has served on the Parish Council. Each week she volunteers time for he Adoration program.
She makes home visits for Make A Wish. She says, "I love Make a Wish." It seems that she loves anything that brightens the world for others. As her nominator said, "Trish is there anytime, anywhere someone needs a hand." This may be to assist a friend or an organization.
Trish serves on the Fine Arts Committee at DLHS and is a member of the North Dakota Chautauqua Board where she uses her creativity to design post cards and posters to promote events.
Trish serves on the Nodak Operation Round Up, a program offered by Nodak Electric Cooperative that puts funds into a special account to assist local individuals and non-profit organizations with crucial needs.
Commenting on her demanding schedule, Trish modestly says, "I like to be busy!" The nice thing is that this energetic, compassionate, generous person sagely uses her time for the benefit of the benefit of others. This award is to say thank you.
2016 June Unsung Hero
The Unsung Hero Award is presented to the VFW Neatherly/Simonson Post 756, at the North Dakota Chautauqua Old Time Picnic. How fitting that this award is being presented at this red, white and blue event, with flags proudly waving as the Elk Band plays rousing patriotic music, as only they can!
The Neatherly/Simonson Post was established in 1936. Since that day, they have had an important positive impact on this community. They continually do countless things to remind us to remember the courageous individuals who have served our nation nobly and well.
The existence of the VFW Post gives a constant reminder of the debt we owe to the selfless individuals who have served to make it possible for us to live peacefully in this great country.
Through the years, on Memorial Day, members of the Post have placed thousands of flags at our local cemetery on the graves of Veterans. VFW members march in the Fourth of July Parade, with flags flying. Their presence is evident in the community at significant times too numerous to mention.
And their contributions to the community do not end there, far from it!!! They provide the community with a friendly, comfortable club offering dinners and also gaming. The Club is capably run and managed by Trudy Jaeger and her competent staff. It is not only a place for Veterans to gather, it is a popular place for the community at large.
Perhaps not many are aware of VFW's great humanitarian and cultural efforts. Their Trust Fund allows them to be extremely generous with organizations in the community. Emery Fisher states, "We give ten to fifteen thousand dollars a year to student activities." Doug Mootz adds, "If a local charity asks, we give." The list of organizations that have received funding from that local VFW is long and impressive. (This extensive list is far too long to be listed here.)
VFW also sponsors a scholarship at UND Lake Region. This is just one of the many ways that they give enthusiastic support to the youth of the community. They involve ROTC students in the placing of flags on the graves of Veterans on Memorial Day. It is a way to help young people to begin thinking of the debt we owe to those who have gone before.
But it is not just at Memorial Day, or Flag Day or the Fourth of July that the members of VFW encourage us to say thank you. It is a continuous day-in, day-out, year-round effort.
This award is to say thank you to the members of this stellar organization for their great generosity and for their dedicated service to our community. We are grateful for the many ways that they remind us to say, "Thank you for your service." Read on for previous Unsung Heroes.
2016 May Unsung Hero
The Unsung Hero for May is Louise Oleson, Managing Editor of the Devils Lake Journal. She is well-known in the Lake Region and beyond for her skills as a journalist. But the extent of her giving as a volunteer is not as well known.
Louise grew up in Devils Lake. She graduated from DLHS and studied at Lake Region State College. She received a degree in Education from the University of North Dakota. Her first year of teaching was in Osnabrock, ND. The following year she accepted a teaching position at St. Mary's High School in Devils Lake. She delighted in teaching English and Drama there, and was greatly saddened when the school closed in the late seventies.
Louise was known to be an excellent educator. While teaching, she became an active volunteer. She served as President of North Dakota Chautauqua, was a founding member of Pioneer Players and participated in theatrical productions at Lake Region State College, under the direction of Bill Holo.
She also has been actively involved in productions at the Fort Totten Little Theatre. She says, "I think I spent maybe fifteen seasons with the Fort Totten Little Theatre, but not always on the stage. Sometimes I did costumes or make-up or lights. I've enjoyed all of the different things you do when you love the theatre! You do whatever needs to be done!!!"
Her Christian faith has been another passion of hers. She was a member of St. Olaf Lutheran Church until her early 20s when she left to explore many different denominations. She says, "What I have found is that in the basics, we are very much the same. And while experiencing various denominations, I discovered that there were some things about each one that I really liked."
This wisdom, that began in exploration, gave Louise a desire to give others an opportunity to come together socially. So, she assisted in establishing the Christian Corner Coffeehouse, a place where individuals of various religions could come together for prayer and fun (and enjoy their commonality). It met in the Devils Lake Armory Saturday nights for a number of years.
Louise said, "It was fun! And it was successful. Everyone felt comfortable there. No one frowned on anyone because of their beliefs." In fact the endeavor thrived and expanded to include a variety of activities (including Friday night volleyball). A broad cross section of the citizenry attended.
After getting involved in TEC (Teens Encounter Christ) retreats, moving to Binford to teach English and continuing to explore different churches, newly-ordained Father Bob Kippley invited Louise to work as a volunteer at the Newman Center at Minot State University. The Roman Catholic Church, so like the church of her origin, felt like home. Louise says, "I just stepped out in faith. It was humbling and faith-building." This position, intended to last for one year, turned into 19-year career as a certified professional Campus Minister and a convert to Catholicism.
When her position with the Diocese ended and her aging parents, Millie and Leland, were in need of assistance, Louise decided to return home to Devils Lake. "I had to have a job, so I answered an ad in the newspaper for a reporter at the Journal." Two years later she was named the managing editor.
Because of the demands of her job, there no longer is time for extensive volunteerism, although she did serve as secretary for Chautauqua for over a decade after returning in 2003.
Through her work as a journalist, she is able to give support to countless local projects and organizations. Her contribution to groups like the Friends of Sullys Hill, the Fort Totten State Historic Site and the Lake Region Heritage Center may not be as a traditional volunteer, but those feature stories that she publishes about what's happening all around the region is her contribution to their efforts. "I really do make an effort to be at as many events as is humanly possible," she says, adding, "It is my way of furthering the wonderful things happening right here in my hometown. My own way of 'giving back'."
Back at St. Olaf Lutheran, where she was baptized and confirmed, she's come full circle, back home where she belongs. She presently sits on the Call Committee, a volunteer organization that is working to find a new pastor for their congregation. Each March she enjoys being involved in the World Day of Prayer, an ecumenical prayer experience with people around the world that rotates in several local churches the first Friday in March. This year it would have been skipped for reasons unknown, but Louise stepped in at the last minute when she heard about it and with help of a number of friends, World Day of Prayer 20derp16 took place at 2 p.m. March 4 in Devils Lake, pink flamingoes and all.
When Louise was a young girl biking around town with her sister, Lynn, on the tandem bike rented from the hardware store for 50 cents an hour, she likely did not imagine that one day she would help to chronicle the history of her hometown as editor of the newspaper. Is this not the American Dream?
2016 April Unsung Hero
When Alpha Lang sees a person without a smile, she will quickly give them one of hers. Her kindness exemplifies that of an Unsung Hero. Alpha is April Unsung Hero.
She was first of the nine children born to Esther and Alfred Berg. Therefore they named her Alpha. She has tender memories of her childhood days on the family farm near Starkweather, including the rides on bobsled to their country school. She says, "Even though we had a big horsehide blanket to keep us warm, we still needed to dress to the max."
When she recalls the delicious bread her Mother baked daily for the family, she says, "In those days it was a treat to have a slice of store-bought bread. Now it is a treat to have homemade bread! Times change."
Alpha and her beloved husband, Eugene, have been married for 55 years. Alpha says, "I was raised Lutheran, but when I married Eugene I became Catholic. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to embrace each of these great religions."
Eugene and Alpha have three adult sons: Todd, Troy and Trinity and daughters-in-law Shannon and Geralyn. They are Grandparents to ten grandchildren with a new grandbaby due in October. They also have one great grandchild.
When their boys were young, Alpha served on the School Board at Saint Joseph's School and was active with Home and School. She also volunteered time for Boy Scouts along with numerous other youth related activities.
She has served as Parish Council President at Saint Josephs Catholic Church. Alpha has always enjoyed involvement in church activities. She also enthusiastically served on as Key Personnel for North Dakota Chautauqua for ten years. She has a busy work schedule as well. Presently she works at the Police Department and also at Wal-Mart where customers appreciate her friendliness.
Her nominator said, "Alpha is always thinking of others. She sends cards to numerous friends and acquaintances on their Birthdays and other special occasions. Her kind-heartedness is not restricted to special times like Birthdays, Christmas, Easter or Valentine's Day. She brightens the world for others 24/7. Her kindness goes on and on. It is year-round."
While listening to the radio, when you hear Birthday greetings from Alpha, you may wonder how she does it. How she can remember all of those dates! Alpha explains quite simply,"Through the years I have enjoyed friendships with so many wonderful people. This gives me a way to let them know how special they are." Then with her radiant smile, she adds, "I just like to do it!"
Alpha's compassion for others makes a difference in many lives. Her thoughtfulness and her kind deeds brighten their days. We in the Lake Region are blessed to have someone like Alpha living among us.
To our valued customers;
I hope you have been receiving our emails with special offers and discounts for our customers. I want to only tell you how much we appreciate your business, and fill you in on a new way that we can stay in touch.
Our web site, www.bergstromcars.com , allows us to tell you about specials and offers, and it also allows you to tell us if you have a problem that needs attention. We hope you will find this new way of communicating to be fast and convenient, saving you time and money. After every service or sales visit to our stores you will receive an email with a link to this online community. We hope you will use it any time you have something you want to share with us!
This community is made up of you the customer, and our team at the dealership. You can check this online community out on our website www.Bergstromcars.com. Just login in the upper right hand corner. If you do not know your credentials, contact us at email@example.com
You can also pay for our services online, and see your service history for your vehicles at any time. We hope that this system makes doing business with us easier, faster and more enjoyable. Please use it to stay in touch with us!
Also, look for our app coming soon!!
Looking forward to hearing from you.
2016 February Unsung Hero
February Unsung Heroes, Betty MacArthur and the volunteers at the KC Hall, provide a great service to the community. One of their nominators said, "These selfless volunteers spend countless hours in serving many people in the Devils Lake community and surrounding towns. All of their work is volunteer!"
Selflessly they set-up, serve and clean up for all of the happenings at the KC Hall. They host many benefits as well as weddings receptions, family celebrations, banquets, annual meetings and business gatherings. Simply put: they serve a wide variety of wonderful happenings.
The enthusiasm and energy of these volunteers give the KC Hall events a special ambiance. Over the past eight years, Phil and Linda Schmaltz, along with six other couples, have contributed countless volunteer hours. Each volunteer gives an average of fifteen hours a week. They enjoy fellowship with one another, as well as with those who attend events. It becomes a night out with a purpose.
Bob Borho, who has been active in the KC for sixty years, says, "It is easy for me to remember how many years I have been involved with the KCs because I joined KCs the same year I was married."
Recalling the KC State Convention they hosted, Bob says "We can comfortably accommodate 300 people." Then, with a twinkle in his eye, he says. "However there have been times when we have served up to 400. It is wonderful to see that despite the large crowd, it can be an intimate affair. There just is something special about the atmosphere at the KC Hall."
Betty MacArthur, who has been chief cook and organizer of the events for the past seven years, tells of the wide variety of events they host. She says, " I enjoy trying new things! We are flexible! We will do anything you want!" Then she adds with her warm smile, "I have learned so much from my Mother who is an amazing cook. She is always trying something new!"
Some of Betty's specialties are stuffed pork chops, roast beef and meatballs. Over the years, they have served some extraordinary menus at the request of various clients. The menu they prepared for Aurelie Jerome's 100th Birthday celebration would be an example. Bob Borho says, "Everything we serve is special". Phil adds, "And the food has home cooked goodness".
Each Friday during Lent, they serve a Friday Fish Fry. And Tuesday night is Family Night. It is not unusual to have 200 attending these events. Phil says, "We want to be sure the people know that these events open to the entire community".
Bob Borho, the official greeter and ticket taker, says "We really want to thank this great community for the support we have received through the years. We are happy to be able to offer first class dining in this friendly setting".
Then the volunteers present added, almost in unison, "Our meals are served efficiently and are always hot. Excluding private parties, our events are open to the public. We invite all within earshot to join us at the Friday Fish Fry and for Family Night on Tuesday.
House Committee Volunteers are:
Bob Borho, Linda and Phil Schmaltz, Nola and Dan Dahlen, Arlene and Bob Adahl, Ann and Fred Bingham' Wayne Carlson and Bob Kraft
Knights of Columbus House Committee Volunteers: L to R: Leo Boyle, Bob Adahl, Leroy Koble, Wayne Brandt of Lake Chevrolet, Betty MacArther, Amy Heilman of Ramsey National Bank, Phil Schmaltz and Bob Borho. Those not pictured: Linda Schmaltz, Nola and Dan Dahlen, Arlene Adahl, Ann and Fred Bingham, Wayne Carlson and Bob Kraft.
2016 January Unsung Hero
Kristy Stenslie Laber, January Unsung Hero, received enthusiastic nominations for this award from friends who state that she is the perfect example of an Unsung Hero.
Kristy, who grew up in Devils Lake, has a great love for the Lake Region and its people. Her parents and grandparents lived here. Many likely remember how cheerfully Kristy assisted guests at the Happy Hour Café during the decade-plus that her parents, Arne and Georgia Stenslie owned and operated that charming restaurant. It was a great gathering place in Downtown Devils Lake.
Her Grandfather, Arne Stenslie Senior, had an amazing career with the US Military. He emigrated from Norway and fought in World War I, World War II as well as the Korean War. He retired as Lieutenant Colonel after having received the Purple Heart and the Silver Star.
When Historian Merry Helm spoke recently at Lake Region Public Library, she told about Arne Stenslie's dedicated service during the Korean Conflict. She told that he refused to go home and continued to get special permission to serve even though he was well into his sixties by the time the Korean War ended.
Kristy continues the family tradition of kindness and caring. Her sister-in-law, Jan Kurtz, says, "Kristy constantly thinks of thoughtful ways she can brighten the days of others".
Jan also said, "Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall Kristy gets up and walks four miles. She says, "It is surprising to see how many people are up at this time of the morning!" Numerous times she has stopped to assist others in need. She may lend her phone, or bring home a person with a broken arm. On more than one occasion she has had to call 911".
Thanks to Kristy, the concept of sending cards by mail has not been completely lost! Kristy sends out correspondence on a daily basis. After her morning walk, she utilizes the next hour for her "paperwork." She sends get-well cards, or words encouragement to those who have experienced a disappointment as well as congratulations to those who enjoy special achievements.
Kristy is a person to contact if you are trying to locate an old friend, classmate or acquaintance from Devils Lake. She knows three and four generations of many Devils Lake families. She has assisted with many class reunions. Not just with her own class. She has helped to plan Birthday parties for many, many people ranging in age from one year old to ninety years young.
Kristy and Chuck Laber have been married for 34 years. They are the parents of three... Tyler, Reiley and Mason. While their youngsters were growing up, Kristy served on the School Board at St. Joseph's School. She also taught Sunday School at St. Olaf's Lutheran Church and was involved in many youth related volunteer activities. Kristy and Chuck also hosted several Exchange students at this time.
Kristy says, "I love the history of Devils Lake and I love the people." As seems to be the habit of Unsung Heroes, Kristy gets her joy from bringing happiness to others. How blessed we are to have such people in our midst!
2015 December Unsung Hero
Dan "Buckshot" Greene, December Unsung Hero, is Security Officer at Spirit Lake Casino. He has held that position for sixteen years. Before that he was Corrections Officer at the Devils Lake Law Enforcement Center for twelve years.
Devils Lake Mayor, Richard Johnson, says, "When Dan Greene served at LEC, he was very professional. He knew the rules and followed them. He could be depended upon to be fair and honest. He was both compassionate and firm".
Johnson continued, "Lt. Greene was an excellent Corrections Officer. When called upon to handle difficult situations, he listened to all sides of the disagreement with great understanding. As a result, his decisions were respected. It takes a special person to be able to do this."
I was impressed by the number of people who stopped at the table to greet Dan and shake his hand during our interview at the Snack-Bar at the Casino. Some greeted him as "Buckshot", a nickname he has been affectionately called since childhood.
It is apparent that people have great respect for this fine man. Dan simply says, "I love to visit". But it is more than that. He sees the good in people. He also helps them to find the good in themselves.
Throughout his career he has mentored many people. He has taken, and given, many classes. He says, "Classes are important, but where you really learn is on the job." He emphasizes, "The most important thing is to treat people with respect."
Dan tells of his Mother's innate kindness and how warmly she welcomed people to their home. He said, "The Tribal Police called her the Town Constable. She helped them out in a lot of difficult situations". He says of his parents, "They were strict, but there was a lot of love there."
Dan works the Graveyard Shift at the Casino (from midnight until 8:00 AM). His wife, Karen, works at Lake Region Corporation. Despite their busy schedules, they find plenty of time and energy to enjoy their family. That is their favorite activity.
Dan and Karen will have been married for 35 years in May. The two met as pen pals when Dan was serving in the Military at Fort Knox, Kentucky. They now have four sons, eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
The Unsung Hero Award honors Dan for his kindness and compassion and also the strength with which he promotes a better life for all. Dan says, "The important thing is to be positive and hold on to the good. My goal is to get better as the years go by, and whenever possible to help others to do the same".
Dan says, "I just want to do my best and to help others to do their best too." And isn't that what being an Unsung Hero is all about!?! It is a recognition of fine citizenship and acts of kindness that exemplify the great spirit of the Lake Region and make our community a better place to live.
2015 November Unsung Hero
When counting our Blessings at Thanksgiving time, we are mindful of the charitable people who unselfishly assist others with generous acts of kindness. Our November Unsung Hero, Mary Frances Becker, is one such person.
A friend, Shirley Gores, says, "Mary Frances is constantly assisting others with rides to appointments, to church, for shopping or what ever need arises. She shares her talent playing the piano/organ at church services at Eventide and at the Good Samaritan Center. She is an all around genuinely kind and helpful person."
Mary Frances loves to give. She says, "It is much more fun to give than to receive." Each day she finds meaningful ways to give back to her community and to brighten the lives of friends and family. She says, "It gives you a reason to get up in the morning."
She is a great cook and contributes delicious bars and baked goods for bake sales and church functions. People love her home-made bread. She says, "That is my favorite!" She also often bakes Birthday cakes for friends. Her gardening skills are legend as well.
She brings flowers from her garden to residents of Eventide and the Good Samaritan Home. Not only does she brighten the their lives with the beauty of her flowers, but she also puts a song in their hearts.
When she learned that there was no music at the Eventide and Good Samaritan Home church services, she volunteered to play the piano for them. She had served as organist and pianist for many years at Saint Benedicts Catholic Church, rural Crary, for a number of years.
Mary Frances and her husband, Gerald, raised nine children. There are now 22 grandchildren and 12 great grand children. She enjoys assisting them whenever needed.
Her house has an open door. She says, "My Mother always liked to have a house full of people. I do too." She delights in making her home available for her family and friends. Inscribed on the wall in her home are the words, "This home is built on Faith, Family and Friends.
Her family gathers together at her home each Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mary Frances says, "I have had Thanksgiving at my house for the past 57 years. The first time, I didn't have a kitchen sink. We didn't have many conveniences." But she had the essentials. What is essential is invisible.
When her family was growing up, Mary Frances enjoyed being involved in farming activities, such as custom combining. But she always found time for volunteer work. When her family was young, she was involved with 4-H. More recently she has been involved with Catholic Daughters and she serves as president of her Church Circle.
Mary Frances provides music for church services and scrumptious bake goods for countless events. It can be said that she provides nourishment for body and soul! She energetically celebrates life. Her energy level is that of one many years her junior. Next month she will celebrate her 85th Birthday.
Her enthusiasm, and the joy with which she continuously gives back to her community, are an inspiration for many.
Toyota Technology
In every way, technology continues to grow exponentially. Toyota has kept pace all along, oftentimes helping to push the envelope. Take any recent Toyota vehicle for a spin and the automaker's strong focus on technology is readily apparent.
Three years ago, Toyota began implementing the Entune multimedia system. Entune boasts many innovative features. Data services provide information, on fuel prices, traffic, weather, sports and stocks, streaming in real time. The Entune App Suite allows users to access popular apps such as iHeartRadio, Pandora and Yelp.
Most Toyota vehicles are equipped to provide navigation and easy smartphone integration. That means the ability to make calls and stream audio wirelessly. It also means you'll probably never get lost again.
Advanced technology has worked its way into nearly every aspect of the Toyota vehicle. Dynamic Radar Cruise Control makes regular cruise control look old-fashioned. Available on select models, DRCC uses cutting-edge radar tech to determine the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, maintaining a preset distance with speed control.
This all amounts to a more comfortable, relaxing and confident drive. Toyota uses technology to help you, not as flashy gimmicks just to get you inside of their cars.
While other automakers struggle to keep up, Toyota has the ability to anticipate consumers' technological needs. This has helped Toyota establish a strong reputation for making some of the most technologically-advanced vehicles on the road today.
Fuel Efficiency Tips
Gas prices remain a nuisance across the country. Getting from Point A to Point B just as difficult as ever, and just as expensive as well. That is why it helps to have some tricks for better fuel efficiency up your sleeve. Fortunately, we at Lake Toyota in Devils Lake, ND have our own collection of fuel efficiency tips.
Remove Heavy Objects from your Car
Don't get bogged down with excessive weight. The heaver your car is, the worse its fuel economy will be. Every 100 pounds reduces your car's mpg by 1%. Remove heavy objects you don't need from your car.
Drive the Speed Limit
You should always drive the speed limit. You may think that speeding will get you places faster, and while that is so, it's also reducing your fuel economy. Gas mileage drops rapidly at speeds exceeding 50 mph. Slow and steady wins the fuel efficiency race.
Use Your Cruise Control
When it comes to useful features in a car, cruise control tops the list. This feature helps you maintain a constant speed on the highway, which, by extension, also helps you maintain constant fuel efficiency, saving you fuel.
Avoid Rapid Accelerations
It might feel exhilarating to accelerate quickly. However, revving your engine has a high cost. Powerful acceleration hurts your fuel economy, using more fuel than a nice steady acceleration would use.
Coast Instead of Braking
You see a stop light up ahead. Instead of coasting, you decide to brake at the last second. That decision can cost you a lot when it comes to fuel efficiency. Excessive braking can use a lot of fuel. Consider coasting instead to conserve that fuel.
Chevrolet Colorado, Camaro awarded Motor Trend Car and Truck of the Year
General Motors snapped up the two top honors from Motor Trend magazine, providing a key vindication for the company's vehicle development decisions amid exceedingly competitive times in the auto industry.
Motor Trend named the Chevrolet Colorado as its Truck of the Year and picked the Chevrolet Camaro as its Car of the Year.
The magazine named the Volvo XC90 as its SUV of the Year.
The Colorado's victory is particularly sweet for GM, which zigged while the industry zagged by embracing mid-size pickup trucks. While Ford stuck with the full-size F-series pickup and Fiat Chrysler bet on the full-size Ram pickup, GM revived the temporarily defunct Colorado, giving the vehicle a complete overhaul. Customers have flocked to the Colorado and its sister vehicle, the GMC Canyon. GM sold 70,291 Colorados through the first 10 months of the year, making it the company's eighth most popular model. It sold 24,841 Canyons during the same period.
Other Motor Trend Truck of the Year finalists were the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Canyon, GMC Sierra 1500, Nissan Titan XD and Toyota Tacoma.
General Motors snapped up the two top honors from Motor Trend magazine, providing a key vindication for the company's vehicle development decisions amid exceedingly competitive times in the auto industry.
Meanwhile, the Camaro impressed critics with its new lighter design and smaller stance. The performance coupe's overhaul came ahead of the Camaro's 50th birthday.
2015 October Unsung Hero
Betty Bachmeier, October Unsung Hero, brightens the lives of others in countless ways. Her nominator stated, "Betty is truly dedicated to helping serve the needs of the poor or disadvantaged living in our community. And she does so voluntarily."
Eight years ago Betty established St. Joseph's Table at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church. Through this program, parishioners, who choose to participate, bring canned goods, cereal or other non-perishable items to St. Joseph's Table on the third Sunday of the month.
After the last service that Sunday Betty gathers the donated items and brings them to her car. On Monday she delivers the food to the Food Pantry in Devils Lake. This project is near and dear to her heart.
Betty said, "Before Saint Joseph's Table was established I had difficult time sleeping at night. I worried about the people in our community who might be hungry. Then I brought the idea to Father Wilhelm and he established Saint Joseph's Table at the church. After that I was able sleep better".
This certainly is not the only way this generous and energetic person gives to the community. She also volunteers time for the St. Vincent De Paul Society. This organization offers person-to-person assistance to ones in need of help. Betty gives Eucharist to shut-ins. She also is an active member of St. Catherine's Circle and is a lay Director in the Church.
The volunteer work she does for community organizations outside the church is impressive as well. She is Treasurer for the Friends of Sully's Hill and works with the Community Action Agency and RSVP. She enjoys working with young people.
She delights in reading with children in the Public Schools and at Saint Josephs Elementary. She has volunteered at the Middle School Library and is involved in Marketplace For Kids. This radiant, joyful person leaves happiness in her wake. She will tell you that this loving spirit comes from the Lord.
Betty married Bernie in 1957. Betty was widowed in 2007. Six children were born to this union. There now are 15 grandchildren (ages 35 to 13) and five great grandchildren (with one on the way). Commenting on her (adult) children, she says, "They will always be my babies."
But Betty has experienced sorrow along with her gladness. The personal losses she has endured have given her profound understanding for the bereaved. She has a deep desire to share care and concern with those who need comforting.
Betty, who grew up on a farm in the Lake Region, says her Father taught her the power of prayer. She said, "When there were hard times, Dad would say, 'The Lord will leave enough for us'. And He always did."
There is so much more to tell, but there is not enough space. The good news is that Betty is writing her memoires. Each year at Christmas she gives her family members a new chapter of the book. What a lovely gift!
As her nominator stated, "Betty personifies generosity and kindness. She serves quietly without fuss. In my eyes she is a true hero."
2015 Helen Bergstrom Ernst
Helen Bergstrom Ernst was one of five children born to Peder and Hilma Carlson Bergstrom, who had emigrated from Norkopping Sweden in 1882. The family made their home in Saint Paul, Minnesota, in an area known as Swede Hollow. Helen had fond memories of her childhood there.
Helen became fascinated with the Lake Region when her brother, Art, moved here in 1919. After having had served in the Army in World War I, Art accepted a position as salesman for Fairbanks-Morris. He was offered a position in the Saint Paul office, but decided to accept the job of salesman. So he came Devils Lake to sell electrical systems to towns in the Lake Region.
Art often said, "I fell in love with this little bit of wilderness." The area provided an interesting contrast to his boyhood experiences in Saint Paul. His sister, Helen, enjoyed Art's reports about the Lake Region. Soon she was fascinated also.
In 1923, Art and Bert Baldwin founded Lake Chevrolet Company (now Lake GM Auto Center) in Devils Lake. Art had fallen in love with the community and decided to make this his permanent home. One could say he came for a season and stayed for a lifetime... actually for generations!
When Aunt Helen came to visit her brother, she developed a deep and abiding love for the people of the Lake Region and especially for the members of the Devils Lake Sioux Tribe (now called Spirit Lake Nation). She admired the spirit of the members of the Sioux Tribe.
A family member recalls, "During her visits here, Aunt Helen asked many questions about the culture of the Sioux Tribe. We answered her questions as best we could. It appears that we did a good job because as a result the Helen Bergstrom Ernst Trust was established".
The family is grateful to Helen for expressing her love and admiration with this gift that continues to express her love by helping to provide educational opportunities.
It is a gift that continues to give. Aunt Helen would be so proud could she know the benefits her gift continues to provide.
Bergstrom family leaves lasting legacy at Lake Region State College
A Local Family Name will welcome students and guest to The Technical Education Center at the Lake Region State College. A gift to the LRSC Foundation from Renard and Candace Bergstrom and Anne Marit Bergstrom will strengthen and support programs based in the Technical Education Center on the Devils Lake campus. The building will be named Bergstrom Technical Center.
The name was approved by the State Board of Higher Education at its meeting January 29. Lake Region State College is proud to attach the Bergstrom to its recently constructed for technical education said Dr. Doug Darling LRSC President. The Bergstrom Family involvement with LRSC has been in place since the college opened in 1941. Arthur Bergstrom founded Lake Chevrolet Motor Company. The dealership has been owned and operated by the family since the business was well established when the decision was made to create a two year college in Devils Lake and Art supported this progressive decision. William (Bill) son of Art and Majorie Bergstrom joined the family business in 1960. Bill and Ann-Marit supported the college in many ways. Bill was instrumental in the growth of the college and served on the first Board of Trustees for the college.
Through the years the Bergstrom family has supported the college in other special ways in addition to Bill's work to create facility resources. Anne Marit Bergstrom (Mrs. Bill Bergstrom) has engaged in multiple funds raising efforts for the college These efforts have resulted in many opportunities for the college including acquisition of the Steinway Grand Piano that is used on the stage of the Robert Fawcett Auditorium, and the creation of the Chautauqua Gallery that is dedicated to Mrs. Bergstrom's Parents Leo and Alma Studness.
In 1991 Bill and Ann-Marit were joined by their son and daughter-in-law, Renard and Candace, in the family business. In 1996 Renard Succeeded Bill as CEO of Bergstrom Automotive Management. The Business and family continues a close working relationship with the college employs numerous technical students each year in a work internship that enhances the schools' automotive technician program immensely.
Currently, Bergstrom Automotive has 94 employees, Renard Bergstrom said that of those 94 employees 39 have taken classes at LRSC and 15 of them have degrees from LRSC.
It is a privilege to be able to continue our family support of Lake Region State College. LRSC has had a positive influence on our family, our business and our community as a whole. We are grateful to the forward thinking people in the past and present who have given tirelessly and selflessly to make it possible for LRSC to flourish as it does today. We believe the future is bright for LRSC and are excited to be able to part of it Bergstrom said. The new Bergstrom Technical Center is truly state of the instructional resource that will serve the educational needs of students and the community for years to come, Darling said.
"The gift from the Bergstrom family will ensure the new facility maintains its prominence. The gift allows LRSC to make improvements in educational resources and classroom areas not included in the construction project. The gift also brings scholarship opportunities for students pursuing education in automotive technology" he said.
The Bergstrom family gift has two components. A generous endowment will be used to strengthen automotive technology program through scholarships and/or program support. Funds from a bequest gift will be used to support priority needs for technical education at LRSC when it matures. Both parts of the gift were matched by the ND Higher Education Challenge fund.
The Bergstrom family gift was critically important to the Challenge campaign and it will enable LRSC to provide a level of excellence in technical education beyond the base provided by traditional funding sources, Said Laurel Goulding Vice President for Advancement at LRSC.
"The college and its foundation are extremely grateful to the Bergstrom family for their enduring commitment and enduring support" Goulding said.
The college cut the ribbon opening its new technical education center in September 2014. This project had long been at the top of the college's priority list because once again, the college was out of space and renting classrooms of campus. In 2013 North Dakota's legislature funded a $5.9 million capital project for technical education. It funded a suite of new classrooms mostly for the nursing program new mechanical systems and a touch up to the exterior of the two older technical buildings that were incorporated into the design for the new center.
However no resources were allocated to address the needs 32,000 square feet of classroom and workshop space in the two 70's era buildings wrapped into the project. Committed to make the older classrooms as new and technologically advanced as the new portions, LRSC launched a $2 million fundraising initiative. Gifts for priority projects were eligible for match through a challenge fund; also funded by legislature. "Many generous donors responded to the challenge and the major gift from the Bergstrom family completed the home stretch for the challenge campaign." Goulding said.
LRSC foundation captured its assigned match of $1 million. It also claimed $100,000 from the residual left by other small campuses unable to qualify for their entire match allocation.
"The match campaign energized to invest LRSC, and essentially in student success," Darling said.
Devils Lake Auto Dealer
Honored By TIME and Goodyear
Renard Bergstrom, Devils Lake, was honored recently for his nomination for the 2009 TIME Magazine Dealer of the Year Award. Renard is President of Lake Toyota, Lake Motor Company (Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Cadillac) and Marketplace Motors (Ford, Lincoln Mercury), all of Devils Lake. He was one of a select group of dealers from across the country honored at the 92nd annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention and Exposition held recently in New Orleans.
The announcement was made by Don Fries, Publisher of TIME Magazine, and Johann Finkelmeier, VP and General Manager, Original Equipment Tires, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Renard is one of only 49 automobile dealers, from more than 19,500 nationwide, nominated for the 40th annual award.
The TIME Magazine Dealer of the Year Award is the automobile industry's most prestigious and highly coveted award for car dealers. Recipients must demonstrate a long-standing commitment to effective community service and be among the nation's most successful auto dealers. The award is sponsored by TIME in association with Goodyear, and in cooperation with NADA. A panel of faculty members from the University of Michigan Graduate School of Business Administration selects each finalist.
A third-generation dealer whose grandfather established Lake Chevrolet Motor Company, Devils Lake, in 1923, Renard says, "Our philosophy of taking good care of employees and customers has helped us stay successfully in business for over 80 years."
After graduating high school in 1981, Renard entered the United States Air Force Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree while majoring in physics. On active duty in the Air Force from 1985 to 1991, Renard piloted F-16s, and continued on as a distinguished pilot in the North Dakota National Guard until 1996.
"In 1991," said Renard, "I fulfilled my military active duty commitment and returned to the family business." Starting in finance and insurance, he worked throughout the dealership, became GM in 1996, and took charge of overall operations in 1999.
In addition to his success in the sky and on the lot, Renard has been deeply involved in various local civic, religious, and educational institutions. Whether as a coach of youth football, soccer, and basketball, or as the leader of a fund-raising drive for a new school bus, he has been putting community first for nearly two decades.
"My most meaningful civic achievement," he says, "has been founding and maintaining the Unsung Hero award." The Unsung Hero Award is a 12-year-old program and the brain-child of his parents, Bill and Anne-Marit Bergstrom, that recognizes individuals and groups doing good works across the community.
As a member of Angel Flight, Renard has also benefitted others with his piloting skills, using the company plane to provide transportation for area residents with medical needs on numerous occasions.
Still, he says, "The most rewarding event in my automotive career has been watching my people grow personally and prosper financially."
Nominated for the TIME Magazine Dealer of the Year Award by the Automobile Dealers Association of North Dakota, Renard resides in Devils Lake with his wife, Candace. The couple has two children: William and Benjamin.
The following is a partial list of the organizations Devils Lake New Car Dealers support annually
Do any of these organizations apply to you or your kids?


text:
Doe uw eigen onderzoek in het mystery van Sherlock Holmes; lees de achtergronden en beluister de originele muziekstukken:
"The Deadly Game"
A Sherlock Holmes Mystery
It is a grey rainy morning in London. The city is slowly coming to life. Streets are filling up with people going to their work and children who are taken to school. However,… something is different today. There is some sort of tension among the people and it feels like something is about to happen. Out of nowhere 2 gun shots come from a dark alley.
Chapter 1. Murder:
- Music: "Discombobulate" from the original Sherlock Holmes movie.
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DPxO2hcaYE
You can feel the panic and confusion all around the murder scene. People are running and screaming. Someone committed a murder. Officers are setting up the perimeter. They see the body and know what kind of murder this is. "This is really a case for Sherlock Holmes." "Does anyone know where we can find him?" Sherlock is always around and also now he knows his way to the crime scene. "Here I am; We have no time to lose. Let's start right away."
Chapter 2. Investigation:
- Music:"Distorted" from La Nouba (Cirque du Soleil)
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5DPxO2hcaYE
Sherlock and the officers are starting their investigation at the crime scene. They make sure they don't miss anything. Then it is time to clean the murder scene and start the investigation around the city and in the lab. They will start a ballistic research and start questioning people who might know more about the murder. Officers are looking in all the streets to possibly find more information about the killer. More pieces are coming together and put Sherlock on the right track.
Chapter 3. In pursuit:
- Music:"Catatonic" from the original Sherlock Holmes movie, "Corridors and Fire Escape" from Doctor Who-series 4
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBrmta5ub94
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bul3oSXZulY
Suddenly Sherlock receives a phone call. A mysterious voice sounds trough the telephone. "I invite you to a deadly game. So if you want to play, start searching at 23rd Orange Street here in London. I will wait for you there."
Will it be that easy? Sherlock enters the house and slowly walks through the hallway, around the corner and into a room. He must be here somewhere….. Suddenly they see someone running away and driving off in his car. We need to go after him.
The sounds of screaming tyres and sirens are all over the place. Sherlock is in pursuit. The problem is he is driving a black cab. And there are so many black cabs in London. Black cabs all everywhere, but which one do we need to follow? "Where did he go… Right or left… Let's go after him". Heavy traffic makes it difficult. Downtown London he passes cars on the left and right at a high speed. He wants to get out of London. They are chasing him with more than 15 cars. There is the bridge and it is closing.
They need to get him before it is too late… The bridge is already closing… will he make the jump?…
Damn,… he is gone… We were so close…
Chapter 4. Alone
- Music:"Skyfall" by Adele.
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StJLvbPIvTw
After the heavy chase downtown London Sherlock goes home. He takes of his jacket and starts thinking what to do next. Who is this mysterious person? He wants to play a game over a murder? Sherlock doesn't get it. He tries to put the pieces together but he is stuck. He stays in his house for days. Walls are coming towards him and his head is spinning. It becomes more of an personal fight. He needs to get out… But how?… He is fighting his own mind and madness. Sherlock's problem is more than only solving the murder case… He is really lost.
Chapter 5. Putting the pieces together
- Music: "I am the Doctor" from Doctor Who-series 5, compilation of previous tunes and "Discombobulate"
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5D-QPDGhCtM
Sherlock needs to get hold of himself. He needs to open his eyes and just put it together.
Suddenly he realizes it. "How could I have missed that? Dressed in black and always in charge. We need the last piece of evidence. I know precisely where it is." Sherlock now knows to put the puzzle together. He puts on his jacket and takes off. He starts walking and starts running faster and faster. I have to start at the beginning. Let's go back to the murder scene and just let everything come together. All the pieces just point to one person. "You lose, I win!"

subset: commoncrawl


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In today's climate you need to deliver the final product –says Wes Maebe
In the "good old golden days" of the music industry, you had an idea for a hook or a lick, you developed it and laid down a demo to tape or cassette.
Your demo could've been as simple as a piano or acoustic guitar and vocals – or you could've taken a little more time and layered instruments on your "porta-studio".
The point of this exercise was that you'd be able to shop your songwriting, arrangement and playing skills to various A&R departments.
Someone at the label would hopefully listen to your work (and not throw it in the bin the moment it arrived on the desk), hear your potential and offer you and your band a deal.
Then, all going well, you would be go into the studio with a producer in order to further develop and record your tunes properly.
After all your hard work in the studio, the label would put a strong promotional vehicle behind the band, get the album in the shops, advertise in the various magazines, secure radio play and possibly hook you up with a tour, some TV appearances, etc.
The Labels Are Bean Counters
This scenario has vanished. Labels no longer seem to believe in artist development.
The majority of the people in charge are only concerned about their bottom line.
There's no long term nurturing of artists, just short-term protection of their so-called investment.
That's why we're being told to "sound more like so and so", "look more like this or that singer"… the list goes on.
The labels have fallen foul of fads and the bean counters at the top do not care about the talent and seem, quite frankly, scared to take any risks.
Just think of bands like Pink Floyd, The Sex Pistols, Simply Red, The Beastie Boys and U2.
Somebody had to take a risk on them and develop them; they all ended up with their own sound and identity.
If they tried to make it in today's climate, they wouldn't stand a chance.
Even if you do find an energetic and keen person within the label framework, chances are he/she will be gone within months and there won't be anyone around looking after your best interests.
A New Possibility for You & Your Music
The Internet has opened the world up to a lot more music.
Remember: labels don't offer the advances they used to and there are plenty of small operators out there who are getting away with offering the sort of deals that you wish had gone out of fashion in the 60s.
Artists are still hungry enough – and naive enough – to sign them.
Whichever route you decide to take, be it via a label or the self-promotion route, the demo days are over.
You need to deliver the finished product.
Nobody's interested in listening to your demos and then having to sink capital into getting the demos up to scratch to release.
It's down to you and your team to build the songs, have them recorded, mixed and mastered professionally.
And you have to have the artwork in place if you're going to release hard copy.
The same goes for the video content everyone is expecting to see from you on the various social networks.
This Brings Me to Production.
It is so easy and relatively cheap to get set up for recording.
You buy a laptop, some software a microphone and voila, everyone is a producer.
However, capturing a band or a performance is like playing your instrument.
It takes years and years of experience to hone this skill set.
So, why not rely on the people who excel at this? Engineers and producers have cut their teeth on countless projects of varying styles.
They know where to point a microphone. They have the ability to get the performance of a lifetime out of you.
Let them focus on making you sound the best you're going to sound, so you, as an artist, can concentrate on writing, playing and singing.
You don't need any distractions when you're supposed to be pouring your heart and soul into a piece of music, your music.
This can also steer you clear of the preset world. All these software packages come loaded with synths and plug-ins that have 100s of presets.
It's easy: you dial up an EQ, select preset 3 and there you go, you have a sound.
Guess what: it's a sound many others are using too. You'll all end up sounding like each other and trust me, the world can tell.
The world is filled with wonderful sounding studios with amazing microphone collections, great sounding consoles, stunning acoustics and engineers who are passionate about their craft.
And just like your music, quality comes with a price tag.
You don't go to the supermarket, stock up on a pile of food and then say: "Sorry, I'm not paying for this, it should be free".
As in any other area of life, you get what you pay for.
-Wes Maebe