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businessman is all tied up
Kevin Mulrooney is the first to admit that he has a serious
problem. "I am a lunatic," he says. "Of that there is no doubt. I am a
serial tie-aholic." Kevin owns 342 neck ties. He has a picture of
himself at age four wearing a tie. "All this probably goes back to some
traumatic childhood experience," he says. He has many, many patterned
ties, along with Valentines' ties, Christmas ties, patriotic ties,
Lions-theme ties (he is a member of the local Lions Club), musical ties
and Wisconsin Badger ties. One of his ties looks like a "tragic
paintball accident." He not only has a Green Bay Packers tie, he has a
Green Bay Packers Christmas tie and a Green Bay Packers green-and-gold
jellybean tie. When Kevin started in the insurance business 20 years
ago, he owned about five ties - which is about average for a business
man. Then he started buying ties and couldn't quit. "It kind of became
an obsession." He bought ties wherever he went - local businesses of
course, but trips to State Street and airport kiosks had him coming home
with a new tie in hand. He has even bought ties on eBay, including
Italian silk ties from a person in Copenhagen. What is the criteria for
a tie to be purchased by Kevin? He admits there is no criteria - the tie
only need exists for him to be interested in it. "I knew I had a problem
when I reached 300," says Kevin. He recently calculated that if he wore
a different tie each business day it would take about 16 months to wear
his entire collection. He not only owns a tie rack, he owns an electric
tie rack with a light which holds at least 72 ties. He had to upgrade
awhile back from a rack which couldn't keep up with the weight of his
collection. He says to earn tie rack status a tie has to be one of his
favorites. He was nearly fit to be tied about ten years ago when a tie
he was wearing was nearly pulled into a paper shredder. "I could just
see the headline -Local life insurance salesman dies in paper shredder
incident.'" He is much more careful around office equipment now. He is
apparently starting to get his problem under control. He has been able
to stop buying ties, but his collection is still growing with gifts from
others. "I admit I'm a little eccentric," says Kevin. "Okay. I'm a lot
eccentric." If anyone knows of a 12-step program dealing with tie
addiction, Kevin says he would appreciate knowing about it.
PdC School District upgrades computer system
The Prairie du Chien School Board voted unanimously Monday night to
replace all of the district's computer servers and other one-time items
with the exception of workstations (computers) in an effort to fortify
and bring up to speed the district's computer system. Board member Barb
Matejka was not present. The vote came following a presentation by
District Technology Coordinator Dustin Wilson which explored three
options for upgrading technology. Wilson explained that the district is
in the process of switching from a Nobel platform to a Microsoft
platform. In addition to rebuilding or replacing the district's six
servers, Option 1 involved the purchase of 280 new computers. Option 2
involved the purchase of 150 new computers and Option 3 involved the
purchase of 130 computers. The proposed replacement of computers would
be done under a four-year plan. Either Gateway or IBM computers would be
the likely choices. Several in attendance, including High School
Assistant Principal Joe Zydowsky, High School Principal Andy Banasik and
numerous teachers said that the district's computer network is in
deplorable condition. They said that the servers and computers can't
keep up to the latest software that the district uses and that the
servers are "crashing" on a regular basis and need to be "rebooted"
about twice a week. Also, there is a strong concern that many of the
older computers can't operate the Windows 2000 Operating System and that
these computers are also susceptible to computer viruses that could
damage the whole system. Board member Brian Edwards said that he is in
favor of replacing the servers but that it is too early to purchase
computers, which would lock the district in for four years. Edwards said
that he feels the price of computers will go down significantly in the
near future and the district should look at purchasing at that time. The
amount approved for replacing the servers and purchasing one-time items
is $23,405. In other action, the board voted unanimously in favor of a
letter of commitment to allow a 20-foot easement running behind Bluff
View Intermediate School for use by the city as part of a proposed
bicycle-pedestrian path that would circumnavigate the city. The easement
would be granted when the city has the money and the inclination to
proceed with the project. If a bicycle path is constructed, the city
would be responsible for maintaining it. The board unanimously agreed to
approve a school calendar which begins on Sept. 1 and ends June 8, with
graduation on June 5. The calendar is contingent upon approval by the
Prairie du Chien Education Association. In further action, the board
unanimously approved switching the student insurance company from First
Agency to Student Assurance. The student insurance would be on a no
deductible, no co-pay basis. The move to Student Assurance saves the
district $6,625. Following the closed session, the board voted 4-2 to
give four administrators total package raises of 3.8 percent. Board
members Russ Gillitzer and Ron Goodman voted against the measure.
Business Manager Mike Coughlin and B.A. Kennedy Principal Kathryn Roe
did not receive raises.
River Ridge High School announces top scholars
Naomi Lindberg has been named the 2004 River Ridge High School
valedictorian. She is the daughter of Jon and Jenny Lindberg. Her school
activities include: band, Christmas Brass, jazz band, pep band,
percussion ensemble, Biology Club, choir, jazz choir, Triple Trip, Women's
Chorus, drama, forensics, French Club, softball, Friends Helping
Friends, high honor roll, homecoming activities, National Honors Society
and solo & ensemble. Lindberg's community activities include five
years or more experience with: American Spirit Leadership Trip, 4-H
speaking contest, Solo/Duet contest, Blake's Prairie Fair, Grant County
Fair. Other activities include: Clothing review, many activities with
her church, CESA Champion Games volunteer, Luther League, National
Honors Society, roadside cleanup, Orchard Manor bingo, St. John's
Community Christmas Choir (Boscobel), Platteville Childrens Choir.
Lindberg's honors and recognitions include: Dorian Band Festival 1st
chair 1st Oboe, Dorian Vocal Festival, Dubuque Youth Symphony, principal
oboe, Honors Band, soloist, Honors Choir, soloist, National English
Merit Award, National Honor Roll inductee, Outstanding Students of
America, semifinalist, State Solo/Ensemble medalist, State Forensic
medalist, State Fair 4-H projects, State Mixed Honors choir, Who's Who
Among American High School students, WI All-State Scholar. She plans on
attending UW-Madison to major in pharmacy.
Karla Horsfall, has been named salutatorian. She is the daughter of
Butch and Lou Ann Horsfall. Her school activities include: volleyball,
basketball, softball, Forensics, National Honor Society, Friends Helping
Friends, Student Council, Biology Club and French Club. Horsfall's
community activities include Little Timberwolves Basketball and roadside
clean-up. Her honors and recognition include first team all-conference
volleyball player, being a Girls Badger State delegate, serving as
Student Council president and she was a three-time State Forensic
Medallist. Horsfall's plans after graduation include obtaining a
bachelor's degree in Biology.
Bush talks of safer, stronger America
President Bush addresses the crowd at Cabela's in Prairie du Chien Friday
afternoon.
Exuding confidence and charm, President George W. Bush touched upon
several topics Friday afternoon as he asked the partisan crowd in Prairie du
Chien for support in the upcoming election. Following the introduction by First
Lady Laura Bush, the president strode upon the stage to a standing ovation by
the approximately 1,500 that had gathered in a section of the Cabela's
warehouse. The Speech The issues addressed by the president during his opening
speech included the war on terrorism and the war in Iraq, education and the no
child left behind act, the economy, tax relief and the entrepreneurial spirit in
America, health care, and forming an energy policy. "I'm here to talk about ways
to make this country safer and stronger and better," said Bush during part of
his speech. Bush went on to say that the best way to protect the homeland is to
stay on the offensive and "bring these killers to justice before they hurt us
again." The statement drew a hearty round of applause. "If I'm fortunate enough
to become your president for four more years, I will continue to lead this great
nation in utilizing every asset we have‹not just a few, or some, but every
single asset we have to protect the American people," said Bush a few moments
later. "That's our most solemn duty." The president then shifted the focus to
Saddam Hussein and the war in Iraq, saying that Saddam was a tyrant who funded
terrorists and terrorist activities. "I had a choice to make," Bush said. "Either
trust the decisions of a madman, a tyrant, a torturer, a hater, or to protect
America. And, given that choice, I will protect America every time." A few
moments later, Bush thanked the several members of the 229th Army National Guard
who were in attendance at Cabela's Friday afternoon. After praising the bravery
of America's troops and the strategy of its military commanders, Bush then
briefly addressed the recent conduct of some American military personnel who had
been guarding Iraqi prisoners. "I'm just as disgusted at those pictures you've
seen on TV as you are. This isn't the America we know, Bush said. "Let me tell
you something, those few people have stained the honor of this country. They've
helped paint a picture of the country that doesn't exist." The president then
switched from the war on terror to talk of the economy. He said that the way to
make the country stronger is by making sure the entrepreneurial spirit in the
country is strong so that people can find work. Bush went on to say to loud
applause that he is very optimistic about the economy and pointed out that
288,000 new jobs have been posted in the month of April. "We're growing. That's
1.1 million jobs since last August that have been created," he said. "That's
really good news." The economy is growing and strong, said Bush, who noted that
the pro-growth is due in part to tax cuts. The president then tied America's
economy to its educational policies, saying that better education means better
employability for its citizens. "This No Child Left Behind Act I've signed is
good, really good," he said. "I'll tell you why. It raises the bar. We spent
more money at the federal level for Title I kids, and for the first time the
federal government says, please show us whether or not the children can read and
write and add and subtract. If they can't, we'll find out early, and get the
kids extra help. If they can, we'll praise the teachers for doing the work that
we expect them to do. If the curriculum works, we'll find out. If it doesn't
work, we'll find out." Energy was the next topic discussed by Bush, who said
that he is in favor of the use of soybeans and corn to diversify and increase
the energy supply. Bush also said that he is in support of ethanol, biodiesel,
clean coal, natural gas, and safe nuclear energy so that America can become less
dependent on foreign sources. Harnessing energy sources, such as natural gas, in
environmentally friendly ways is also very important, Bush said. The president
concluded the speech portion of the rally by saying, "The strength of this
country lies in the hearts and souls of our fellow citizens, which make us such
a fabulous nation." Tax relief testimonials Following the president's speech, he
engaged in conversations with area business owners and workers who gave
testimonials on how tax cuts have helped their endeavors. Jim Hutchison, the
owner of Prairie Industries, was one businessman who touted tax relief.
Hutchison told the president that Prairie Industries hired 30 new employees this
year and plans to hire at least another 30 in June. Also, Prairie Industries
plans to invest in a total of $1 million in new equipment in 2004. Prairie
Industries is a contract manufacturer and packager of food and nonfood products.
They began 10 years ago with seven employees in a converted warehouse and today
have 300 employees and $30 million in revenues. Hutchinson and the president
enjoyed a good-natured conversation. Hutchinson said, "... first of all, thank
you for coming to Prairie du Chien, Mr. President." The president replied, "Thanks
for the excuse of getting out of Washington." After Hutchinson commented on the
nice drive the president was enjoying, Bush replied, "It's beautiful ‹ it
really is. A little different from Midland, Texas. Which is flat and in the
desert." Christine and Mark Seeley of Prairie du Chien were invited to converse
with the president about what tax relief has meant to their life. When Bush and
the Seeleys talked, it was revealed that Mark and Christine had left their young
children at home. Bush said, "Afraid the President would speak too long. I
understand." Tina and Michael Hendrickson of Prairie du Chien was one couple
invited by the president to talk about how tax relief has helped them. The
Hendrickson's said that they saved approximately $1,900 in 2003 and will save a
similar amount in 2004 because of the increased child tax credit, the marriage
penalty relief and the new 10 percent tax bracket. Ask George Bush The final
phase of the president's visit to Prairie du Chien was called "Ask George Bush,"
during which there was time enough for a question about freedom of speech and
religion, a question concerning the volatile steel market and stabilizing the
construction trade and a question that addressed educational funding. The
presidential visit to Prairie du Chien, the first one since President Carter
came calling 25 years ago, came to an end after Prairie du Chien resident John
C. Holley gave a statement rather than a question. "I just wanted to thank you.
I served in the United States Air Force for 10 years. I just love the love that
you have for our troops and the admiration you have for our troops and I salute
you," said Holley in garnering a standing ovation from the crowd. "Thank you,
sir," replied President Bush, who then explained that he had to leave. The
president then circled the stage to shake hands with those in the front rows
before departing for a rally in La Crosse later Friday afternoon.
Prairie du Chien High School names top scholars
Heather Mae Brody, the daughter of Cindy and Brian Ehlers, is the 2004
Prairie du Chien High School valedictorian. Her school activities include:
volleyball (4 years); gymnastics (2 years); track (1 year), Letter winners Club
(2 years); International Club (4 years); newspaper (1 year); yearbook (1 year);
choir (1 year); art show participant (1 year); room committee (1 year);
graduation committee (1 year); and office assistant (1 year). Brody's community
activities include Relay for Life, blood donation, Sunday school teacher, church
dinner server, Christmas caroling, working at Star Cinema, the middle school
Kiddie Carnival, being a gymnastics coach, and volunteering at the nursing home.
Her honors include: Highest Honors, Distinguished Scholar Award, National
English Merit Award, Who's Who Among American High School Students, KWWL Best of
Class and All-American Scholar. She plans to attend Tulane University to major
in exercise and sports science. Seth O'Brien, the son of Brian and Lee Ann O'Brien,
is this year's salutatorian. His school activities include: football (4 years);
Basketball, (4 years); Golf (2 years); Track (2 years); FFA (1 year); Bio Club
(2 years); Prom committee (1 year); Homecoming committee (1 year); Graduation
committee (1 year), Prom Court (1 year); and Letterwinners Club (4 years). His
community activities include being a nursing home volunteer; 3 on 3 whiz kids
referee; concession stand worker, clock/book worker for basketball tourneys; and
being a middle school track volunteer. His honors and recognitions include -
Highest honors 4 years; State golfer. O'Brien plans on attending UW-Madison in
the fall.
Localized heavy rains cause road closures
Localized heavy rains caused road closures in Crawford County Saturday night and
Sunday morning. Twenty-four hour rainfall totals for the area included .02" in
Marquette, 1.01" in Steuben, 1.18" in Lynxville, 1.46" in Gays Mills, and,
depending upon which report you go by, Lansing received between 5.0 and 7 inches
of rain. The more than five inches reported in Lansing, the majority of which
came down in about two-and-a-half hours, caused flash floods, as well as mud and
rock slides. Highway 35 was closed from DeSoto to Prairie du Chien from about 9
p.m. Saturday to 4:10 a.m. Sunday due to rock and mud slides, according to
Crawford County Highway Commissioner Dennis Pelock. Many other roads, including
County B and township roads which go off of Highway 35 were closed as well. As
of Monday morning, most roadways were cleared and open. Pelock said they hoped
to have County B reopen by Monday evening. "It rained so hard that the water
went over the retaining walls along Highway 35," Pelock said. Township roads in
Freeman, Haney and Seneca townships were also closed for a while. Pelock said
although they were not closed, County Highways C, W and S also required clean
up. Todd Shea of the National Weather Service La Crosse office said that at
about 8 p.m. on Saturday a cluster of the many storms in the area formed in the
Lansing, Ferryville and DeSoto area. A flash flood warning was issued from 8:52
to 11:45 p.m. for Allamakee, Vernon and Crawford Counties. The storms were so
concentrated that there were no water-related problems reported south of
Lynxville or north of Victory. One rural Ferryville resident said she was
standing under an overhang outside her home Saturday night when suddenly the
water was over her ankles. |
