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Recreation

Recreation in Greenbush Area

An important part of our heritage along with farming and busi­nesses is recreation. In papers as early as 1910, we see where town­ship teams went up against town teams in basketball, baseball, hockey, and volleyball, most ofthe time for fund-raisers. Town teams competed against neighboring towns.

Another important recreation in Greenbush history was card games. Cards were played with the town folks in competition, in homes as neighbors got together, and when men together at local establishments.

Over the years fishing, camping and hunting has grown by leaps and bounds. Looking back in some of the old papers, articles on fishing, hunting, and sportsmen's clubs were in the news. In the later papers, snowmobiling, snowmobile and car racing, and motocross were added to the mix. Ofcourse we could never reprint all the articles in the paper about all the residents, but these are the few that the committee copied and we would like to pass them on to you.

Baseball

In 1910; the Dewey boys played the local team, the Greenbush Fellows, with Greenbush finishing on top. The batting order for Greenbush was as follows: Dr. Torgerson, Rud, Dalby, Fislason, Wentland, Moe, Gehres, Eddie Bjork, and Low; and the batting order for Dewey was H. Siljan, O. Paulson, R. Hagen, L. Teske, L. Pateoski, O. Loken, R. Phillips, L. Metvedt, and T. Rowland.

Another independent team was the baseball team. In 1949, play­ers were Donald Mattson, John Sodnak, Lowell Mortrude, Bob Sawyer, Maynard Moen, Ray Mattson, Menvil Borgen, Pete and Paul Montry, Walter Pederson, Walter Hastings, Harley Transgrud, Raymond Zrust, and Howard Huartson with Orin Paulson as man­ager.

In 1950, the pitching staff added Ralph Wittrich, an ex-Portland boy. Together with pitchers Walter Pederson and Pete Montry, they

1950 Greenbush Baseball team. Back row L to R: Raymond Zrust, Maynard Moen, Robert Wallin, Harley Trarigsrud, Menvil Borgen, Dave Bolieau, Bill Bjerman, and Howard Huartson. Front row L to R: Walter Pederson, Ray Mattson, Orin Paulson, Paul Montry, Peter Montry, and Earl Paulson. (photo courtesy ojOrin Paulson)

shouldn't have had any pitching problems. Catching was taken care of by the two Montry boys, Francis and Paul. Infield players included Lowell Mortrude, Zrust and Moen. In the outfield were Mattson, Borgen, John Delmaire, Don Workentine, and Seymour Mortrude.

In August of 1950, Stars of Yesterday took on the Greenbush Regulars. The final score was 13-8 in favor of the Regulars. The battery for the Stars included: Emmet McGrath, John Delmaire, Ellerd Paulson, Wm. Gordon, Menford Brekke, Harley Trangsrud, Bob Evans, Ray Hellekson, Alfred Sather, Ole Pederson, Einar Johnson, Harley Anderson, Dyke Temanson, Larry Truscinski, Stanley Evans, Father Montgomery, Stuart Folland, Bob Sawyer, Conley Darst, and Charley Anderson. Tom Jones, as commentator, insulted practically everyone on the field. The fundraiser was for the hospital. Another such event was planned for the future with the merchants versus farmers with the prize being a case ofSlonan's Liniment.

In 1952, three Canadian players were added to the lineup and games were played in Canada. In 1953, a new Minnesota amateur baseball league was formed and called the Northwest Border League.

Greenbush City Baseball team. Back row L to R: Larry Olson, Gary Trangsrud, Wendell Green, ·Bruce Anderson, and Scott Waage. Front row L to R: Kenny Gryskiewicz, Lee Brekke, Gordie Barrett, Gene Janousek, and Robert Bentow. (Tribune photo)

St. Hilaire edged Greenbush 6-5 in a game played in July 1957. Peter Quist started on the mound for Greenbush and was relieved by Juel Gustafson. The Greenbush team faced one of the finest pitchers in the league, young Harley Dries, who struck out 14 of the men in nine innings. Submitted by Karen Janousek

Baseball

Legion Baseball started in 1995 due to some high school students approaching Wesley Pesek wanting to play baseball through the summer. Men's League had folded in the 60s. Wesley went to the

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Legion to see if they would sponsor and support this league. The Legion approved it and play began. Middle River Legion came on board with them in joint sponsorship later.

North Sub-District Division 2 mles were set up nationwide, state, and district. The first head coach in 1995 was Michael Pesek, as­sistant coach Butch Olson, and manager Wesley Pesek. Most Valu­able Player (MVP) was Aaron Pesek. They placed first in the North Sub-District and fourth place in District 8.

In 1996, Michael Pesek was head coach, assistant Aaron Pesek, and MVP Troy Hanson. They took first again in the sub-district and fourth at the district. In 1997, the coaches stayed the same with Charlie Johnson as MVP, again placing first and fourth.

In 1998, Garrett Magner was MVP and they took second in the sub-district and third in the district. Tim Bentow was MVP in 1999 when they placed third in both tournaments.

In 2000, David Tmscinski was named MVP and they went on to place first again in the sub-district and second in the district. There was no team in 2001 due to lack ofplayers. David Tmscinski was head coach in 2002 and Wesley Pesek took on the assistant coach position along with being manager. Most Valuable Player was Tim Dion. They placed fifth in the sub-district.

Legion Baseball team in 2000 in Ada at Sub-district tournament. Standing R: Wes Pesek - Manager, Aaron Pesek Coach, Josh Smith, Kurt Truscinski, T.J. Super, Jeremy Peterson, Mike Nelson, Nolan Ryba,Adam Gerdes, Ricky

and Tim Dion. Kneeling L-R: Mark Borgen, Justin Swensen, David Truscinski, Ben Peterson, Tim Bentow, Ben Heuner, and Mike Pesek - Coach.

submitted by Wesley Pesek)

Head coach in 2003 was Todd Wensloff and Ben Huener was MVP. They placed fifth in the sub-district. In 2004, T.J. Super was head coach and Cody Severts was named MVP. They placed sixth in the sub-district.

Players that advanced to college ball were Troy Hanson, Chris Haarstick, Charlie Johnson, Garrett Magner, David Truscinski, Cody Severts, and T.J. Super.

Their main goal wasn't winning, but representing the Legion and the communities in a tradition of good sportsmanship. Al­though they never went to state, they came close and over the years have played to the highest standards of the game. Wesley

. has been involved for all ten years as manager and figures ap­proximately 300 volunteer hours per year between games and meetings throughout the area.

They appreciate the GreenbushlMiddle River School for allow­ing the use ofvans for transportation to games. Games are played June through August at Borgen Field in Greenbush.

It has been difficult to keep the program going due to the pres­sure ofworking to make money for school, etc., and getting play­

ers. As long as interest is there, the program will continue. The fu­ture ofLegion Baseball depends on the number and dedication ofthe kids. Submitted by Karen Janousek and Linda Gieseke with iriformation from Wesley Pesek.

Borgen Field - New Name for Greenbush City Ball Park

It may have taken 26 years in coming, but the Greenbush City Ball Diamond finally has a name - Borgen Field. Menvil Borgen donated a portion ofhis land to the city for little or nothing in 1969 to be used as a ball diamond.

He signed a 99-year lease with the city at the time and could have cared less about the money. His main concern was to see that Greenbush always has a ball diamond. "We wanted to make sure kids had a place to play ball in Greenbush," Menvil said. He grew up playing baseball and has a passion for the sport. He recalls grow­ing up and throwing balls at home. No one at home usually had the time to play him, so he became creative, cutting a hole out of a square, learning it against a granary, and throwing the ball into the hole. He thinks he was trying to be a pitcher at that time.

Borgen said he was athletic and likes all types of sports from bas­ketball to softball, but baseball will always be his game. He thinks the first time he played baseball on an organized team was when he was in the eighth grade. The ball club at that time played at a dia­mond by the Greenbush School; then it was moved to the old Sheep Palace where Fine Tymes in now located. It was not an idealloca­tion despite efforts to improve the diamond conditions in what they called a swamp hole.

Borgen didn 't like the playing conditions and he lived on a large area on the ridge that would make an ideal location for a ball field. It was good place. It's built high on the ridge, so if it rains in the morning you can still play ball in the afternoon.

Borgen noted that according to his journal, a special meeting was held in 1958. It was decided that all home games would be played by the old Sheep Palace for the remainder of that summer. Borgen went to work building the present field adjacent to his property in 1959. He and his wife, Bernice, started managing the ball diamond themselves. Borgen admitted he didn't stop playing ball right away, but being a manager did slow him down a bit. The couple raised money for the ball diamond through concession stands and admis­sion. The Borgens insist that they would not have been able to do it without the help of volunteers.

Borgen said he was never too particular who played on the inde­pendent Greenbush baseball team. He would recruit a few players and never turned anyone down if they wanted to play. He had play­ers from Gatzke, Middle River, Roseau, Strathcona, and Piney, Canada. All he wanted was for the players to play to the best oftheir potential and to have fun.

Borgen decided to lease the land to the city in 1969. Art Braun was mayor that year, and a.H.Nelson was the city clerk. Although Borgen was given some money for the property, he still considers it a dona­tion. He feels the city would never have been able to purchase the land for the price.

Borgen retired from management in 1970 and Norbert Johnson took over the reins as manager. Johnson was instrumental in naming the field Borgen Field. He felt the Borgens should somehow be com­memorated for their contributions to baseball in Greenbush. In August of 1995, the new name for the Greenbush City Ball Park was adopted and an eight foot sign now stands in the comer of left field

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and reads "Borgen Field." Johnson said he values all contributions to the game of baseball and everyone who helped keep the dream of "Borgen Field" alive over the years. This information has been condensed from an article written by Marla Hooper from the August 15, 1995, Tribune.

Basketball

In the 1930s, basketball team played against Roseau, Badger, Baudette, Thief River Falls, and others, In 1933, some of the players for Greenbush were Wallin, K. Aas, Trangsrud, Gilman Aas, V. Nelson, Berggren, Paulson and Melin.

In 1952, we could see names such as Sodnak, Spilde, Mattson, Harders, Wittrich, Trangsrud, Moen, and Peter and Paul Montry. The game was played on January 24th, for the benefit ofthe "March of Dimes". It was the Greenbush team's first in the new high school gym.

On January 24, 1953, Haug Bob Cats took on Strathcona Hot Shots in a March of Dimes benefit. Herman Holm was captain of the Haug team. According to the newspaper article, anyone who had played basketball before, was inelgible. After that basketball game, came the Independent vs. Faculty game. "Rapid" Robert Harders and "Speedo" Carlson coached the faculty squad, and Darrell Sand coached the Independents. Tom Jones, their regular coach, decided he was needed as a referee.

February 6, 1955, brought on a basketball polio benefit between Greenbush and Badger. The preliminary game featured the high school girls' basketball team coached by Mrs. Louis Allen, and a group of ladies organized by' June Mattson and Mrs. Gordon Mortrude.' As reported in the paper, "whistle blowing during the game will be restricted to Clifford Heltne, a "great offormer years."

The Independent basketball team of 1955-1956 was managed by Ray Miller and included players Harold Mushel, Howard Egge, Orin Green, Duane Anderson, Walter Nesteby, John Sodnak, Jr. and Jack Borgen. . Submitted by Karen Janousek.

Greenbush Men's Basketball in the Later Years

I could not come up with a definite starting time or era that the Greenbush men's basketball league actually started, but a very reli­able source told me that it was at least 1963. That was his very first year of teaching in Greenbush, and he played on the team then. It was a traveling team. They played towns like Strandquist, Karlstad, Lancaster and a few others. The teams would play each other twice during the season, once away and the other at home. The traveling team continued until the mid to late 70s. Some players from this era were Dick Churchill, A.J. Pulczinski, Pete Duncan, Dan Motchenbacher, Tom Kujava, Les Trangsrud, Gary Trangsrud, and Larry Olson to name a few.

With lack of interest in traveling, a city league was formed al­most immediately with many ofthe previously mentioned men still playing. Adding to the list ofnames playing in the city league were Don Christianson, Roger Green, Wendell Green, Rick Solberg, Chinny Reese, Jack Sovde, Phil Reese, Jesse Graff, Gene Janousek, Scott Waage, Basil Emery, and Gregg Iverson, to' name a few. There were as many as five teams, .four from Greenbush, and one from Badger.

When mid to late 80s rolled around, it became harder and harder to find enough interest to keep a city league going. With the aid of

players from Badger and Middle River, the traveling team was once again born. They joined the Northwest Minnesota Independent Basketball Association. With the aid of sponsors, basketball jer­seys were purchased, and the "Greenbush Merchants" were offand playing teams from Karlstad, Stephen, Argyle, Lancaster, and Hallock. The towns would play each other twice, following the same format as before, once away and once at home.

When the Merchants first started out, they were a tough team to contend with. They had a very strong inside game with Basil Em­ery and Rick Solberg inside and the outstanding shooting capabili­ties of Kevin Roppe (Middle River), Bob Dostal (Badger), Scott Waage and Gene Janousek (Greenbush). One player who comes to mind, who in my opinion was the driving force and "go to" guy, was Kelly Mesker, the business teacher in Badger.

The Merchants earned about three trips to the state tournaments in their first few years ofexistence, as this was a sanctioned league. Throughout the late 80s and early 90s the Greenbush team contin­ued to add "young" blood to their roster. Jason Solberg, Shane Kilen, Chad Waage, Jason Bertilrud, Jason Burkel and Tim Stanislawski to name a few.

Starting in 1991, running through 1996, the Greenbush team be­gan hosting an annual men's basketball tournament. It was held the Saturday before Palm Sunday, and was titled "The Palm Ball." It was run solely by the Greenbush team, providing all the officials, score and clock keepers and concessions. Half the proceeds were used as expenses throughout the year for the Merchants team, and the other half went to the (then) "Bulldogs" and (later) "Gators" basketball programs.

In the 1990s, with players aging, gravity settling in, the younger ones living elsewhere, and most of them attending college during the basketball season, there was no longer a team from Greenbush. A league still exists in northwest Minnesota. It is my challenge to those who read this article to once again get a team going, even if you may be too "old," to play, perhaps you could be the one who gets a team together, does the organizing, becomes a coach or the "full time" ref. Although I wasn't really a great player, my love for the game kept me playing. I had fun, and those memories will always be with me.

Congratulations, Greenbush on 100 years of establishment! I'm proud to have been part of them. Submitted by Gregg Iverson - Class of1980

Bowling

In June 1963, O.H. Nelson started construction on a bowling al­ley south of the sheep palace where the ball park was once located. Sovde and Sons excavated and Wicklund & Sons laid the founda­tion and constructed the roof. The block man was Holger Nelson of Gatzke. It was the latest AMF equipment in Minnesota. This equip­ment showed the spare maker arrows and marks on the alley to help bowlers improve their games. Great community interest was shown. The Association ofCommerce and village council were very helpful.

Six alleys were readied for sanding and finishing, the pin spotters installed, and walls paneled and partly painted pastel blue. The fur­nishings were turquoise and gray plastic.

Open bowling at Hi-Way Lanes began with league bowling in October 1963. There were five teams for the men's league: the Untouchables, United, Bi-City, National, and American. The women's league consisted of 12 teams, so two leagues were formed:

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Greenbush Hospital-I and 2, Robertson Lumber Company, Greenbush Tribune, Hartz Food Store, Kay's Mobile Court, Ottertail, Elaine, Sather, WikstromlNovacek, Greenbush Insurance, and Greenbush State Bank.

Yarmilla Duray was elected president with Viola Christianson­vice president, Sylvia Solberg-secretary, and Beverly Penas-trea­surer.

Hi-Way Lanes held a grand opening November 30th and Decem­ber Ist with Morried Oppenheim of Chicago, Illinois, a TV star bowler, competing against local bowlers. Lucky number prizes con­sisted of bowling bag, ball, and shoes.

Willie Wilebski, Belmer Thompson, Bob Sawyer, and Adrian Pulczinski bowled against the star. Twelve games were played with one game won by our guys. Clifford Heltne served as Master of Ceremonies, and Bob Burger of the AMF did honors, too. Six hun­dred attended the open house. Nelsons were grateful to everyone who came to wish them well.

Bowling shirts could be purchased at Ace Hardware in Greenbush. In 1967, a bowling banquet was held in the basement ofthe Blessed Sacrament Church catered by Tony & Vi's Cafe. In 1968, there were six teams in the Hi League, six teams in the Toppers League, and six teams in the Queen Pin League. In 1969, an annual meeting and banquet was held at M&Q Cafe with Jane Harders elected presi­dent.

In April 1970, Arnold Smith purchased Hi-Way Lanes from the Nelsons and remodeled it. They added a dining room, a lounge, and a recreation area. It was named Smith's Bowl, Dine and Dance. The Women's leauge held a banquet at Smith's with awards and elections. There were three championship teams: Robertson Lum­ber of Hi League, Tony & of Queen Pin League, and Wikstrom Telephone ofTri-hard League. Robertsons was the tour­nament champion. Clarine Agre was elected president. The men's league held their bowling tournament with Sawyer Motors taking first place.

In October 1970, there were two leagues: theTopper's (men) and Queen Pin (ladies).

In October 1972, the lanes were resurfaced. In November a new league was added Two couples on each team made up four teams, called the Couples League.

Champion Bowling team "Beef Growers" - Torphan Hendrickson, Maynard Olson, Arthur Kilen, Tenney Eeg, Edwin Bertilrud, and-Glen Hendrickson.

In April 1973, the Ottertail Power Company won the Queen Pin League championship and Dorothy Haaland was elected president. In October the women's bowling league consisted of eight teams. The Fillies, Jim's Game, and the Greenbush Tribune led off the

season tying for first with a three to one record. The men's league had ten teams with Shirley's team on top. The Couples League had four teams with Evans-Haaland team on top in November.

In May 1974 the Women's League Champ was Greenbush State Bank of the Queen Pin Bowling.

Bowling ended in September 1974 when Smith closed the bowl­ing alley. When it reopened in 1977, it was remodeled and the bow­ing alleys removed to allow larger dining and dancing area. Submitted by Mary Ann Johnson

In 1922, Hildahl's Heavyweight (married men) Whist Players took on Czyrson's Dwarfs (single men), or as the headline reads, "Singles Defeat Married Men." Married men included: Olaf Hildahl, O.K. Christianson, OJ. Linde, Sankey Dufwa, Chas.A. Anderson, Dave Lofgren, H.A. Von Rohr and T. Nelson. Single men included: Fred Goslein, Adolph Oseid, Gust Williamson, A.K. Czyrson, Walter O'Brien, Oscar Agre, Harold Nelson, and N. Stone.

Another card game was reported in the February 24, 1938 paper, "Leo Whist Team, captained by Captain J.B. Efta, defeats town guys;" and "the farmer team enjoyed immensely the meal that the defeated team had to pay for."

Cards are still a recreation for many and are mostly played during the winter months. Submitted by Karen Janousek.

Dart

Bob Stolp ofJim's Game Supply introduced electronic dartboards to the area liquor establishments in the early 1990s. In 1994, the first leagues started up in Greenbush. In the summer a Greenbush! Middle River Cricket League played with the teams: Legion I win­ning first, Wagon Wheel I second, and Middle River Legion third. The top players were Joni Mooney and Luke Reese.

Over the winter, GreenbushlNewfolden Cricket Leauge played with Remedies III winning first, Wagon Wheel I second, and Rem­edies IV placing third. Clay Sorteberg and Todd Fossell were the top players in that group. Later the Greenbush Cricket League with the teams, Dream Team Remedies, Legion I, and Herb's Bar I get­ting top honors. Top players Luke Reese, Todd Fossell, and Diane Kjos.

In the winter of 1996, GreenbushlBadger Cricket competed, with the top teams of Semi Pro, Dart Busters, and Dirty Darters and top individual players ofLuke Reese, JeffHowell, and Jina Lund. Later in the spring when the Middle River/Greenbush Leauge played, the teams on top were Awesome Ones, Fine Tymes, and the Knutson Klan. The top players were Delwin Johnson, Jon Sovde, and Jina Lund.

The winter of 1998 started out with the Gator Badger/Greenbush League and the winners Dart Dreamers, Dart Farts, and Club 88. Top player was Jill Stanislawski. The Fine Tymes In-House League played with Fine Tynies Locals taking first, Country Bumpkins sec­ond, and Town and Country third.

Dart playing has been a favorite winter pastime in Greenbush. Dart leagues have not been as popular in recent years as they once were, but the machines are still being used for individual enjoy­ment and personal competitions. Submitted by Linda Gieseke with information from Game Supply.

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Dirt Track Car Racing

Greenbush Race Track opened in 1990. In their first year they featured late models, street class, Can-Am modified, and mini sprints. Racers come from al1 over the area, even as far as Winnipeg. Oval racing has become one of the most popular sports over the last decade, whether it is Nextel, Busch, Craftsman Truck, World of Outlaws, Indy, Formula One, or our local dirt tracks. Many of the racers also race in Grand Forks and Hal1ock, just to name a few. They continue to race in Greenbush on Saturday nights with mini sprints, pure stocks, street stocks, super stocks, modifieds, and four cylinder pure stocks featured. Specials throughout the summer in­

1995, Jamen Foss, Wissota Super Stock. (photo courtesy ofAndy Gieseke)

elude Northern Late Models, Northern Outlaw Sprints, and NOPA Super Trucks. Racers past and present from Greenbush include: Troy Foss, Clay Sorteberg, Brian Burkel, Scott Kaml, Victor Kaml, Jr., Jamen Foss, Jon Duray, Mark Brazier, Bil1 Timm, Ben Beito, Ronnie Novacek, Ben Reese, Kevin Waage, Kurt Waage, Sandy McFarlane, Shane Wahl, Brian Underberg, Pat Lund, Clarence "Skip" Strom, Lowel1 Gislason, Jamie "Trapper" Sovde, Brandon Kuznia, Wahl, Jared Foss, Shannon Gust, Dave Wahl, Lowel1 Langaas, Mike Gross, Christine Foss, Kurt Smith, Ryan Gonshorowski, Derrick Opdahl, Dustin Wahl, Jamey Brandon, Cody Langaas. Submitted by Karen Janousek and Ernie Gieseke

8-Ball

The area 8-Bal1 League has been going since 1976 according to the perpetual trophy at Remedies in downtown Greenbush. Some of the towns involved with it over the years have been Hal1ock, Karlstad, Halma, Lake Bronson, Donaldson, Strandquist, Drayton, Kennedy, Stephen, Greenbush, Badger, and Roseau.

Greenbush Municipal Leauge won the trophy in 1991 for the first time. The players were Jon Sovde, Dan Mooney, Luke Reese, and Andy Reese. The same team of four men won it again in 1992. They were sponsored by the Greenbush Supper Club when they won it again in both 1992 and 1993!

In 1996, the Greenbush team was Remedies #1 with Marlo Lorenson, Bruce Anderson, Doug Lorenson, and Lorenson winning the top honor. The Greenbush Legion team won it in 1998

. when Frandel1 Johnson took over for Doug. Charlie Lund replaced Frandel1 in 1999 and the team was triumphant again.

Remedies #2 team of Jon Sovde, Todd Jesme, A.J. Pulczinski, and Mark Reese took it back in 2000. Paul Mil1er replaced Todd in 2002 for another win, and they pul1ed it off again in 2003! The team changed a little again in 2004 when Paul Miller, Mark Reese, Jeremy Swenson, and Ben Reese won.

So, as you can see, there are a lot of talented pool players in

Remedies #1 won first in the league. Remedies #1 team includes back row: Frandell Johnson and Marlo Lorenson. Front row: LaMarr Lorenson, Doug Lorenson and Bruce Anderson. Not pictured is Richard Bothum of Karlstad. Jon Sovde received first place in the individual standings with Marlo Lorenson second, Bruce Olson third, Doug Lorenson seventh, LaMarr Lorenson eighth and Kurt Smith ninth. (Tribune photo)

Greenbush and they are only getting better! Greenbush, in 2004 has six teams with two from Fine Tymes and four from Remedies. The big 8-Bal1 Traveling Trophy has been in Greenbush for nine out ofthe past eleven years! Submitted by Linda Gieseke.

Fishing

In the October 7,1937 pa­per, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lubinski and son, Lloyd, went to Wheeler's point on a fishing trip. Lloyd pul1ed in an eight pound pike. The article states that Lloyd is the champion fisherman for this part of the country.

In the June 21, 1971, pa­per, Rafine Blawat is pic­tured holding a 28 pound Northern that he caught at Wonderland Lake, Ontario, Canada. The fishing party

. included Floyd Blawat, Sr.,Dean Sather and R oseau River fiISh• (circa 1949) (photo courtesy ofEunice Korczak) Rudy Blawat, Syl Duray

and son, Mike, and Edward

. Efta and son Myles. . On another fishing trip in

the April 8, 1982 paper, Floyd Blawat is pictured with his 35 pound Lake Trout caught in northern Canada. Along with Floyd on the fishing trip were Nathan McFarlane, Rafine Blawat, Dale Kuznia, Jim

Sharon Miller and her big fish caught at Stolp and Syl Duray. Springsteel in the 1990s. (Tribune photo) "Little Greenbush: A

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Town on Ice" was featured in the January 10, 1991, Greenbush Tribune. At 16 mile reef, on Lake of the Woods, most ofthe fishing houses were sleepers and the majority of them were Greenbush residents. Someone had the sense of humor to put up a sign saying "Little Greenbush". They came out in track vans, snowmobiles and pickups; a campground on the lake. Submitted by Karen Janousek

Oak View Golf Course

The idea for a golf course in Greenbush began in May of 1958 when interested parties met to discuss the purchase ofland. By June of that year, a corporation was formed with the first meeting held the following month. The course was officially named Oak View Golf Course. By August, the officers of the corporation were meet­ing with Dave Davidson, pro-manager of Lincoln Golf Course in Grand Forks, ND, to design the layout of the nine hole course. A dance as a fund raiser was suggested with admission of 75 cents per person. Bingo was also played. The dance raised $250 and bingo $455. This was enough to begin the process ofbuilding the course. That spring, workers were paid $1 an hour. Work continued on the course through 1960.

Clubhouse (photo courtesy ofLinda Gieseke)

The course was ready for play in the spring of 1961 with family dues at $20 and single dues at $15. Green fees were 50 cents during the week and $1 on Sundays.

the discussion ofbuilding a club house and starting a league were brought up with this becoming a reality in May of 1962. At this time, a motion was made to prohibit metal spikes inside the clubhouse. Because the clubhouse was only a shelter for serving food; golfballs, etc. were sold from the trunk ofa car each week by Dyke Temanson. This practice continued into the 1990s until a pro shop was added to the clubhouse.

Many activities were offered through the course, with the first Hole-In-One recognition going to Curtis Haugen in 1964. Bingo benefits continued as the main source of income throughout the 60s.

Very little change in the course happened between the 60s and the '80s. Dues had increased by this time to $41.60 for family, $31.20 for single, and a student fee was added for $20. A topic of conver­sation at several meetings during this time was cost ofpop and beer. Motions were made to raise pop to 40 cents and beer to 65 cents. This lasted only one year with beer eventually being raised to 75 cents a can. It wasn't until 1989 that the actual course saw any changes, when sand greens were replaced with grass greens. Holes two and nine were the first holes replaced due to their close prox-

Hole #9 (photo courtesy ofLinda Gieseke)

imity to water. The cost for the rock, sand, drain tiles, and grass seed for these two greens was $2,900.

From that point on, improvements to the actual course continued much more rapidly than in the beginning of its history. By 1990, the board was meeting twice a month concerned about working out details for the new watering system that allowed the course to be watered daily by an irrigation system.

Grass greens for all holes were completed by 1992. Because of the amount ofupkeep needed for these, a full time "Green's Keeper" was needed. Roynell Erickson was hired for $6.25 an hour.

Fund raising continued as the main source of income for the golf course; however, instead ofbingo, "fun nights" were created with a meal and drawings or raffles. In addition, advertising on tee box markers and benches were used.

Today, the course continues to be a nine hole layout; however, efforts are continuing to improve the aesthetics of the course. Dues have increased to $315 for families, $290 for couples, and $215 for singles. The course employs one full time and four part-time people to run the pro shop as well as maintain the grounds. The course has 110 paying members (or family/couple units) but remains open to the public. Submitted by Ai Sather.

Women's Golf History

The earliest record of women organizing to golf in league play was in 1979 when the course still had sand greens. There were 21 ladies divided into three teams; the Dandy Lions, The Daffy Dills and the Lazy Daisies. Of those original members, Jane Harders, Dianne Churchill, Mary Ann Johnson and Andi Nelson are still golfing league. The first record of officers being elected was in 1984 when the following ladies were selected: President-Delphine Graff, Vice president-Dianne Churchill, Secretaries-Marilyn Stordahl and Bonnie Brazier, Treasurer-Holly Foss and Reporter­Andi Nelson. Other past presidents include Kim Hilde, Kari Wiskow, Mary Reese, LaRae Frislie, Bonnie Brazier, Dianne Churchill and Stacy Reese. Present officers are President-Jessica Kuznia, Vice­President-Christine Foss, Secretary-Treasurer-Delphine Graff and Reporters-Andi Nelson and Dianne Churchill.

Activities over the years include hosting invitational tournaments for area women, helping serve food at men's tournaments, sponsor­ing theme fun nights, holding annual club tournaments and clean­ing and refurbishing the kitchen and clubhouse. Presently there are 31 league golfers ranging in age from 18 to 80.

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Back: Marilyn Stordahl, Jane Harders, LouVicia Reese, Gertrude Flaten; Front: Kari Wiskow, Dianne Churchill, and Sue Trangsrud. (photo submitted by Diane Churchill)

Women's Golf League Champions Champions Handicap Champions 1983 - Kim Hilde 1984 - Kathy Wicklund Debbie Hasson 1985 - Kim Hilde Debbie Hasson 1986 - Jane Harders Darcy Hasson 1987 - Kim Hilde Kari Wiskow 1988 - Kim Hilde Kari Wiskow 1989 - Kim Hilde Mary Solberg 1990 - Kim Hilde Monica Trangsrud 1991 - Kim Hilde Bonnie Brazier 1992 - Kim Hilde Jane Harders 1993 - Kim Hilde Monica Trangsrud 1994 - Jessica Reese Jessica Reese 1995 - Bridget Reese Kathy Sather 1996 - Bridget Reese Sue Tureson 1997 '- Mary Reese Susan Anderson 1998 - Bridget Stenberg JoLeah Hasson 1999 - Bridget Stenberg Bridget Stenberg 2000 - Jessica Kuzina Andi Nelson 2001 - Alana Sather Nikki Wojchowski 2002 - Jessica Kuznia Nikki Wojchowski 2003 - Brittany Janousek WyAnn Janousek

Couples Handicap Champions 1982 - Dick & Dianne Churchill; 1983 - Monte Graff & Del Graff; 1984 - Fr. Ray Palcisko & Debbie Novotny; 1985 - Rick & Kim Hilde; 1986 - Mary Solberg & Gregg Iverson; 1987 - Jane Harders & Henry Nubson; 1988 - Jane & Buzz Harders; 1989 - Henry Nubson & Mary Solberg; 1990 - Franklin & LaRae Frislie; 1991 ­

. Franklin & LaRae Frislie; 1992 - Buzz & Jane Harders; 1993 ­Franklin & LaRae Frislie; 1994 - Al & Kathy Sather; 1995 - Dick & Dianne Churchill; 1996 - Dick & Dianne Churchill; 1997 - Andy Reese & Stacy Dallager; 1998 - Andy & Stacy Reese; 1999 - Buzz & Jane Harders; 2000 - Bryan& Lynn Balstad; 2001 - Mark Ander­son & Nikki Wojchowski; 2002 - Kurt & Nikki Wojchowski; 2003 - Gene & WyAnn Janousek.

Men's Golf Champions Champions Handicap Champions 1963 - Dyke Temanson 1964 - Dennis Doran 1965 ­1966 - Bob Harders, Jr. 1967 - Elmer Doran 1968 - Doug Dahl 1969 ­1970 - Doug Dahl 1971 - Herb Reese, Jr. 1972 - Mike Agre 1973 - Mike Agre 1974 - Doug Dahl 1975 - Buzz Harders 1976 - Herb Reese, Jr. Oren Lund 1977 - Phillip Reese Blaine Reese 1978 - Oren Lund Oren Lund 1979 - Bob Stolp Mike Agre 1980 - Mike Agre RickPenas 1981 - Kevin Tureson Kevin Tureson 1982 - Greg Pulczinski Mike Korczak 1983 - MikeAgre Chris Tureson 1984 - Jon Sovde Tom Wachsmuth 1985 - Monte Graff Herb Reese, III 1986 - Monte Graff Monte Graff 1987 - Mike Pulczinski Mike Reese 1988 - Greg Pulczinski Bruce Anderson 1989 - Luke Reese Wendell Green 1990 - Luke Reese Roger Lorenson 1991 - Jon Sovde Gary Trangsrud 1992 - Jon Sovde Bill Blawat 1993 - Jon Sovde Al Sather 1994 - Andy Reese Ronnie Novacek 1995 - Andy Reese Tom Kujava 1996 - Shaw McCabe Shane Kilen 1997 - Jon Sovde Buzz Harders 1998 - Jon Sovde Al Sather 1999 - Derek Janousek Gene Janousek 2000 - Jon Sovde Pat Lund 2001 - Mark Wilson Gregg Iverson 2002 - Jon Sovde Monte Graff 2003 - Rick Wilson Brian Nelson Submitted by Diane Churchill.

Hockey

The Greenbush Independent Hockey team played teams such as Wannaska, Detroit Lakes, ThiefRiver Falls, Hallock, and Red Lake Falls. In 1950, Greenbush lost to Wannaska but went on to maul Detroit Lakes 10-0. Scoring for Greenbush was Gene Kalka with seven goals, Hector Reese scored two, and Paul Mattson accounted for the other. Paul Montry's goalie stick kept the puck from finding the net. At the end of the 1950 season it sounded like the Indepen­dents would enter the Red River League. Stanley Evans and Tom Jones were handling team matters and they reported that the team was clear of debt and financially in good condition. According to the February I, 1951, paper the independent hockey

team was not active as the Red River Valley League was not oper­ating. Many amateur and professional leagues in various sports

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had been discontinued due to a shortage of players. Such leagues were dependent upon men of the draft age, and the National Guard helped deplete the ranks. By February 1, the locals had played three games, winning two and dropping one. One game played in January was independents (alumni) versus the high school hockey team. The alumni edged out the high school team skaters 5-4 in a very high quality game. Submitted by Karen Janousek

Northern Minnesota Horse Racing Association

A trip to the Morris Stampede in Morris, Manitoba, set about an idea that would bring exciting competition in Roseau County for many years.

Kenneth Langaas, Norman Svegdahl, and Arvid Dvergsten were at the Stampede, each bragging to the other that they could do that, too. Kenneth set about making a chariot for each of and a race was run on the Old Highway by Dr. Larson's residence. That was all it took. 1967 was the year the Northern Minnesota Horse Rac­ing Association was developed.

Kenneth Langaas racing in his homemade chariot. (Loretta photo)

People calling people, who called other people was how enough interested racers got together to fonn the association. In 1967, formal meetings were held with Orville Dvergsten as president. Different classes were set up with strict measurements for the nies. 48", 50", and 52" were the height requirements for each pony class'. Ponies were measured at the begiIming ofeach year. If they passed, they were not measured again. That way you could put shoes on the horses' feet and didn't have to remove them before each race.

When the chuck wagons were added later, the wagon had to weigh 550 pounds. If they did not make weight, sandbags were added.

Norman Svegdahl running in chuck wagon race at Roseau County Fair. (Myrna Sovde photo)

They also added a powder puffsingle cart category. Local women participants included Noreen Svegdahl, Loretta Langaas, and Vio­let Dvergsten.

The first track in Greenbush was south ofthe school where Dwight Hasson now lives. It was graded fairly well and they used the track from 1968-1970. The new track was then made where the Greenbush Race Track is now. They usually had one to two races a year in Greenbush. The Fourth of July always had a race and it proved to be a highlight of the day.

Pony racing in 1970 on track where Dwight Hasson lives now. (Myrna Sovde photo)

The racing was really a great family event. Kenneth Langaas's children, Keith, Lowell, and Gary, raced, and so did Norman's kids, Noreen, Lisa, and Noel. The young ones raced against each other with Keith, Lowell, Gary, and Lisa all winning championships in different years at championship finals in Roseau. Other racers who participated were: Gary and Orlan Dvergsten, Dwaine and Arlan Tviet, Wally Nelson, Merlin Olson, Donald and Ronald Klinke, Keith Wojciechowski, Lynn Hagen, Lyle Starren, Larry Bakke, Floyd Nelson, Edward and Robbie Carlson, Donald Lefrooth, Clayton Skoien, Arnold Nelson, Verlyn Kaml, Bruce Anderson, Jack Sovde, Don Burkel, and many others.

Bernie Burgrafstarted announcing the events in 1972. Races were held in Greenbush, Hallock, Warren, Roseau, and Mahnomen to name a few. Bernie followed the circuit and was a real crowd pleaser. He knew the racers well and was not afraid to use an embarrassing moment and tum it into a joke to amuse the crowd between events. For example, in Mahnomen, the track was very muddy and Norman Svegdahl was racing. For some reason his mouth happened to open when a mud ball flew into it. He coughed so hard his false teeth flew out! They searched the track but couldn't find them. Needless to say, Norman was upset. They did find them later; the teeth had fallen into his chariot. What a golden tidbit to tum into an amusing story for the crowd.

Accidents did happen occasionally, with people being run over, others getting poked in the hindend by a pole and ending up with tom pants, one brother jumping over the other brother when he fell off his horse on the track, chariots falling apart, and racers miracu­lously hanging onto the team. The list goes on, but it added to the excitement and not too many were hurt badly.

Starting gates for the thoroughbred racing class were made in 1973-1974. Dennis and Doug Wahl made them. Association mem­bers brought the iron and all their advice on how they should be

When they left, Dennis and Doug threw everything out the back door and did it their way. They were the best starting gates around-even better than the ones in Winnipeg.

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John Bulow loaded the starting gates and Kenneth Langaas ran them. Noral Sovde hauled the gates to and from the races. Noral's kids loved that because they got to go to all the races and take in the excitement.

For many years, the Ben Hur, chariot, and pony races were en­joyed by crowds ofthousands ofpeople. The big horse racers started to take over and pushed the pony racers out. The Association dis­solved when the crowd attendance wasn ' t there. When they dis­solved, the money in the treasury was donated to the Greenbush Fire Department. Submitted by Donna Langaas and Dana Wojciechowski. Sources: Kenneth Langaas family and Roseau Co. Museum.

Horse Enthusiasts

Adam Langaas pole bending at Wojo's Arena. (Donna Langaas photo)

All of you who have a competitve nature and the love ofriding a horse should come out to Wojo 's Arena and put your talents to the test.

Game day and barrel racing is a great way to start. Beginners to experienced riders have fun competing against each other. Key hole, pole weaving and bending, flag race, and speed race are some of the games that are run. The games are divided by age and ribbons are awarded to each winner.

Tyler Wojciechowski and Craig Cemlnara roping a steer. (Donna Langaasphoto)

Team roping is another event at Wojo 'SoFamily events are hard to find and this is a perfect time for parent and child to do something together. Four categories are run: warm-up, beginner, pick n' draw, and the pro-am. Pay backs are awarded in each category with ma­jor prizes for end-of-the-season champions.

Locals who participate include: Greg, Ingrid, and Kristen Mlodzik;

Orlan, Deb, Adria, and Casey Dvergsten; Shawn, Lisa, Calby, and Laine Hanson; Craig Cerminara; Craig Skadsem; and Adam Langaas; Darrel, Lisa, Alicia, Anna, and Abby Wicklund; Becky, Taylor and Levi Langaas; Larry and Austin Emery; Trevor and Jacob Jenson; Kaitlynn Bulow; Lindsey Wojciechowski; and the owners of the Wojo 's Arena, Keith, Dana, and Tyler Wojciechowski.

Other participants come from Gully, Trail , Clearbrook, Mahnomen, Fosston, Bagley, Middle River, Hallock, Bemidji, Warrroad, Wannaska, Long Prairie, International Falls, Grand Forks, other towns in North Dakota, and Canada.

Locals also compete in competitions in Mahnomen and Clearbrook. Submitted by Donna Langaas.

Deer Hunting, Juneberry Township, November 1940; R to L: Hector Graff, Campbell Thompson, Armstrong, Carl Throngard, Juel Graff, BelmerThomp­son, August P., and Hubert Mienback. (photo courtesy ofBob Grafl)

Hunting

Hunting has had many changes over the years. Bounties are not what they used to be and deer herds have increased tremendously. Hunting with planes and snowmobiles are outlawed and penalties are very high for those who break the law.

In January 29, 1909, an article in the Greenbush Tribune states that wolves were active. Moose and caribou were being killed off

. so rapidly in the northern part ofthe state Bou,nty Certificate by timber wolves that big game were

threatened to be scarce the next year. The,-' . state bounty of $7.50 was too small to

make it worthwhile for .hunters go after the wolves as the ammals weIghed 125 pounds and had to be dragged whole to the county clerk.

In 1917, this notice ran in the Greenbush Tribune: Munch of Crookston, deputy game warden, has received instructions from State Game and Fish Commissioner Avery that it is illegal to hunt and fish in Minnesota on Sunday and he says that the law will be rigidly enforced in this district. The ac­tion will be taken as a result of a ruling made by the State Attorney General."

The prairie chicken and waterfowl sea­son opened on Sunday, Sept. 16, 1917, but no hunting could be done until Mon­

Wolf Bounty Certificate on the statute books for years," said the

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State Game and Fish Commissioner, "but sportsmen never felt that it was part of the game regulations and there has never been any de­mand for its enforcement." The same law makes fishing on Sunday unlawful. The law is section 4981 of the revised statutes of 1905.

The county auditor, O.A. Brager, paid $150 for bounties on wolves according to the January 28, 1937 paper. Bounty was paid on ten wolves. Ofcourse, now they are protected As time goes on, there are those trying to change that because wolves have increased in numbers and have . been hard on the deer and livestock.

In the late I930s the law governing deer season specifically lim­ited seasons to even number years only.

In the March 18, 1976 paper, a happy hunting party from 1939 are pictured with their deer kill. The party includes Eric Wicklund, Carl Wicklund, Don Wicklund, Vernon Wicklund, Richard Wicklund, Jonas Wicklund and Mrs. Carl Wicklund (nee Anna Kruse), and son.

As reported in the March 29, 1956, paper Tony Burkel, pilot and gunner Phil Wilebski spent two months hunting with an air­plane. They shot 238 fox, 30 wolves, 12 cats and 1 Canadian Lynx. Johnnie and Willie Wilebski have also filled in as gunners. Collecting bounty is all

; they got but when they asked In the October 31, 1963, paper Ernie Tony a licensed pilot for two Janousek is pictured with a lynx he shot ' .f th · I d t d .t on his home place near the Haug Store. years, 1 ey p anne 0 0 1 The IS year-old youth was awakened again, he replied, "Oh, yes it's too by his mom to find out why the dog was much fun to quit." He also called barking. In the early morning light he attention to the fact that such saw the reflection of the eyes and the . . dim shape he took to be a bobcat. (photo huntIng may courtesy ofErnie Janousek) and small game huntIng In the

area. March 13, 1969, Hector Reese is pictured with the coyotes which

John Gonshorowski shot, after they had been chased by snowmo­biles while on the Gonshorowski farm. Those who helped get the predators were John Pulczinski, Allen Kasprowicz, Hector Reese, John Gonshorowski, Bruce Evans, Mark Gonshorowski and Rich­ard Sovde . Story has it, the coyotes were seen by Mark

Timberwolf, April 3, 1970. (Bob Graffphoto)

Gonshorowski about 300 feet from the sheep pasture. Reese was called to help with snowmobiles. Mark was not in it for the thrill of the hunt, but was concerned for the safety of his livestock and live­stock of other area farmers.

In the November 14, 1975 paper, deer signs were put up between Middle River and Strathcona. According to the article these signs are usually used only on freeways and four lane traffic roads so they were honored to receive two signs. The purpose of the highly visible signs was to warn people ofdeer and moose. Between May 30 and Labor Day, 14 deer were killed on this stretch of road and that is not counting those that were wounded and crawled away.

November 11, 1982, Judy Graff is pictured with her first deer. The nice buck was bagged while hunting with her father, Bob Graff, on their farmland north of Greenbush.

In September 25, 1986, it was reported that Jeff's Super Service in Greenbush will be a registration station to register deer taken by muzzleloaders and bow and arrow.

A successful bear hunt is pictured in the September 6, 1990 paper. Perry Omdahl, LeRoy Omdahl, and Waylon Janousek are shown with two bears that were shot on their first time out. Perry's bear weighed approximately 200 pounds and Waylon's bear, "The Corn King," dressed out at 300 pounds. LeRoy, their guide, was still waiting to get his bear. (photo courtesy ofKaren Janousek)

Hunting cabins are also a very big part of the area. In 1993, The Tribune published an article on the Blawat hunt­ing camp. Tony Moening started hunting in the Greenbush area with Walter Mlodzik, owner ofthe Melrose Grocery Store and former Greenbush resident back in 1929. He has since hunted with three generations, and in 1994 will begin with the fourth generation. Moening says a lot of acreage has been cleared. He recalls a time when only 10

Jeff Tureson successfully hunted down a or 15 acres had been plowed black bear. and the rest was brush and

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November 10,1993, Tony Moening has hunted with three different generations of hunters over the past 64 years. His crew this year is comp.rised of back (left to right) Father Wesely, Ed Wiehoff, Tony Moening, Roy and Floyd Blawat Junior; center (left to right) Connie Salzman, Rafine Blawat and Gary Moening and front (left to right) Rudy Blawat, Curly Wiehoff, Richard Foldesi and Syl Duray. (Tribune photo)

trees. Now everything is open and only about 10 or 15 acres in brush. Hunting is not only easier today, because the land has been cleared, but the season also opens earlier.

In the article Bill Schlesinger, an Oklahoma fire and restoration owner, who has hunted 1981, said, wish all the people in the world were like the ones in Greenbush. Everything is so beau­tiful here. I'd move here in a minute if! could just convince my

wife and kids to come with me." Schlesinger also adds that hunting has al­lowed his friendship with Mike Renz, an old navy buddy to continue. Renz and Schlesinger bought a 177 acre tree farm along with Bill

Bulow that is located seven miles south ofCanada in Roseau County on the Kittson County line. They are in Greenbush three times a

hunting deer, and ducks and in the spring, planting trees to offer a more natural habitat for the animals. Submitted by Karen Janousek Source: Greenbush Tribune

Wahls' Hunting Camp (Korczak photo)

Juel E. Graff, 82 years old, November 3, 1990, bucktaken in Soler Township, Section 9, field dressed at 240 pounds. (photo courtesy ofBob Graff)

Deer Hunting

(When hunting as a group. some are designated as posters. Post­ers stand near the edge of a wooded area alert to shoot at deer driven toward them by the drivers. Drivers walk the area kicking up deer and driVing them in the direction ofthe posters.)

Deer hunting was among my favorite hunting experiences. I was a member ofa group ofabout nine or ten hunters who always hunted together. We made our drives and placed posters at designated spots without a lot ofexplanations, because every hunter had learned over the years exactly where to go if he were a poster, or what area to cover if he were a driver. We were known as the Zabrocki-Sather group. Because there were so many of us, if other hunting parties found us in a given area, they moved elsewhere immediately. We were accused ofgleaning an area ofdeer instead ofhunting it. There were rarely any deer left in an area after we had invaded it.

Toward the end ofdeer season, we enjoyed going into the Roseau River swamp about twenty miles north of Greenbush, an area with hundreds of square miles of nothing but swampland and cattails. Here each man hunted on his own; we called it Indian-fashion hunt­ing. It was not uncommon to walk unto a sleeping deer, surprise it from a warm bed, and if the cattails weren't too tall, you had open shooting.

I was making one of these treks through the swamp one season, when I met a man coming toward me from the opposite direction. His name was Enoch Melby. We exchanged small talk, then each mentioned that we were going to our cars for coffee. He took off in one direction, and I in the other. After about ten minutes of walk­ing, I heard this voice calling, "Al! Al!" I turned and decided Enoch was in some sort of trouble. He was waving his hands frantically. I made double time through the marsh, hoping he was not in serious trouble or hurt. When I got within ten feet of him, he said, "Didn't you say you were going to your car to have coffee?" When I agreed, he said, "You'll never find your car in that direction."

It was most difficult for me to believe I was truly lost but Enoch, with some effort, finally convinced me I was lost. No one in my party knew where I had gone. If it hadn't been for meeting Enoch in that swamp, and had I continued in the direction I was heading, I would have had to walk to Winnipeg before I found civilization. I am quite sure I would not have made it out without his help, and in those days there were no such things as rescue squads, search par­ties, helicopters, or even bloodhounds. Excerpt with slight condensing from Story orMy Life by Albin Zabrocki. Submitted by Eunice Korczak

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Two Rivers Deer Company

2004 Two Rivers Deer Company

Two Rivers Deer Company was established in 1997. We are lo­cated five miles west of Greenbush and our founders are the Russ Anderson, Pat Lorenson and Alan Truscinski families.

In 200 I Russ Anderson shot an eight point buck, weighing 246 1/21bs. which won the Big Buck contest at StrieffSporting Goods. In 2003, Pat Lorenson shot a 21 point, non typical buck that scored 204 3/8 Boone and Crockett. These are our two biggest trophies but the real fun is the time we spend together.

Our camp cabin was originally Grandma's 5ger Drive IIin from Karlstad, but now consists of an addition made by the purchase of Doug Dahl's old bunk house. The welcome mat is always out. Submitted Catherine Lorenson

at Ninety

Ninety year old Hector Graff may have slowed little, but not enough to keep him from participating in his favorite pastime­-hunting. go hunting every year," Graff said. "Hunting keeps me young."

Perhaps Graff is right. After all, he shot his first deer when he was 16 years old and is still hunting 74 years later without fail. The only year Graff didn't go hunting was last year. He had the flu and felt was more important to care of his health.

Graffsaid when he first started hunting he went wolf hunting on horseback to protect his family and livestock, but now the timber wolves are an endangered species and are protected. Graff doesn't seem to mind the new law, though. He knows there are still wolves that roam the woods near his residence, but as long as they don't bother him, he will respect the law and not bother them. Hunting wolves is not the only law that has changed since Grafffirst started hunting. Graffcannot recall a "hunting season" when he began 74 years ago. People at that time hunted when they needed food or needed to protect what was theirs. Even though few hunting re­strictions were imposed in the early 1920s, Graff said hunting was 'not an easy task.

"It's different now. Hunting is easier and there are more deer," he said. He attributes the increase in the deer population to the de­crease in the wolfpopulation. Before the 1930s, the large wolfpopu­lation killed deer and other game for food. As the wolf packs dwindled, the deer population grew. the 1930s, we had almost cleaned out the wolf. We hunted them hard. lfwe needed a sackof flour, we went out to get a wolf," he said. The bounty would buy

groceries. Deer have become easier targets because there are more deer and

because they've been force to move out of the brush. In the early 1900s, deer were commonly found by marshes and swamps. Over the years, farmers have cleared many of these areas, so the deer have been forced to eat in open fields. Coming out of the thicket, they become easier targets. Also aiding hunters are four wheel­drive vehicles. Now if the deer doesn't find the hunter, the hunter can easily go find the deer. "You can drive in a lot ofplaces where you couldn't years ago," Graff pointed out.

Although he misses the challenge of hunting deer in the swamp­lands, Graffdoes think the taste ofvenison has improved. He doesn't think the meat is quite as gamey tasting as it once was, but he also gives his wife a lot of credit. "She's a good cook and that helps," he said.

If Graff isn't found hunting, he can be found fishing in the sum­mer. He claims he doesn't know what there is about it, but the outdoors weaves some kind ofmagical spell over him. He'd rather be outside working with his hands.

Graff isn't sure where he picked up his love for hunting. His father owned a .22 but didn't care much for hunting and rarely used it. He most certainly didn't teach Graffhow to hunt. Graff said he taught himself.

"Dad didn't hunt at all," he said. told me a hunter and a fiddler never get rich." Graff's father only allowed him to hunt on Sundays after the chores were done or when it was too wet to work in the fields. But the love for the sport got into Graff's blood some­how. While he was still relatively young, in addition to his respon­sibilities on his father's farm, he began picking rocks for a neigh­bor to earn wages. When he'd earned enough, he bought a 45-70 single shot and began practicing shooting rabbits. got in my blood after that. I got a big bang out of it," he said.

Graff said that a months after he got his gun, he shot a bear. Shooting a bear was fairly uncommon in the early 1900s, and Graff said he became a bit of a hero or celebrity to people in the local community.

Hunting has become a bit more difficult for Graff over the years. He gets cold easier. He likes to walk around to keep the blood circulating to stay warm, but he said he can't walk for long periods

of time anymore. This year, he said, when it got too cold for him, he sat in the pickup. Graff hunted the first three days ofthe hunting season and then the last two. He shot his deer Sunday, November II, (1995) with a 30-30 rifle.

surprised himself by bagging the deer with this rifle, as it is not one he is ac­customed to using. He said he usually uses a .243, a faster gun with a scope.

He'd been using the .243 the day before and missed his deer with it. He was bundled up in a lot of clothing. Although

Hector Graff enjoyed hunting bear as well that helped keep him warm it as deer. is to left of bear, his son, ., ' Gerald, to the right. (photo courtesy of also restncted hiS movement Gladys GrafJ) and he wasn't able to get the

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scope in precisely the position he wanted. He thought he'd try the 30-30 for fun the next day. Much to his amazement, he bagged his deer. Submitted by Eunice Korczak condensedfrom an article written by Marla Hoper and published in The Tribune (November 28, 1995 issue). Although slightly condensed most of the article is in the original author swords.

Axel Crew

Hunting is probably one of the most distinct cultures about Greenbush, Minnesota. From season to season, you can see the flurry ofactivity associated with the big hunt. Rifle season for deer is the most celebrated of all the seasons, however. The day before the opener, Main Street in Greenbush is full of hunters preparing for a week of hunting, socializing, and storytelling.

North ofJuneberry is where Axel Lieberg made his hunting home back in the 1960s. Along with other friends, Axel would take an old school bus named "Annabelle" up near the Roseau River for rifle season. A few years later, land became available for purchase, so Axel brought a parcel along with Richard Sovde, Sr. , Tony Novacek, Charles Lund, and Buster Nubson.

"Annabelle" was put to rest and an old cookshack was moved up to become the new hunting cabin. Sleeping quarters were added to house the hunters as new family traditions started.

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A good morning in the swamp: Rick Sovde, Rick Penas and Marty Lieberg had a successful opening morning during the 1991 rifle season. (submitted by Marty Lieberg)

As with any hunting party, Axel's crew named favorite hunting spots and distinctive features oftheir area. The hunting party planned drives in and around the Sheep Pasture, the Dip Grove, and Fawn Island. Landmarks included the Camel Back Bridge and the Boy Scout Bridge.

Hunting is just part ofthe week for area folk. Card games, Yahtzee, and storytelling are part ofthe week as well. Just as the camp wel­comes other hunters visiting after dark, this crew visits area cabins as well. Not a season goes by without a visit to friends' cabins.

In 1991, Axel and his son Marty Lieberg built a new cabin. Axel enjoyed hunting on his land and staying in the cabin until his death in 1998. Since then, Marty and friends have continued the tradition up north. BradPenas and Jon Sovde are the "regulars" at the cabin, and they all join in on hunts with Rick Sovde, Kevin Rousseau, and Rick Penas.

The third generation of this hunting crew continues to enjoy go­ing "up to the cabin." Ben and Kjerstie Lieberg, and Tyler and Jenson Penas will no doubt have many cabin stories to share. The

..

Axel Lieberg hunting party. Tony Novacek snapped this picture at the new cabin. Charles Lund, Sr., Axel Lieberg in front, Charlie Lund, Joe Albert Novacek.

cabin is where they learned how to play Yahtzee, where they got to go four-wheeling and sledding, where they fished and skipped rocks in the ditch, and where they were first introduced to the Greenbush tradition of hunting Submitted by Marty and Sue Lieberg

Popular Winter Pastime

Albert and Martin Anderson displaying frozen wolf carcasses. (photo courtesy ofDonavan Foss)

Albert and Martin Anderson loved hunting and trapping and did a lot while skiing or riding horses. For many years hunting and trap­ping were Martin's main occupations. He hunted and trapped wolves, fox and skunks. The brothers who lived and farmed south­west of Greenbush also enjoyed deer hunting.

Albert (left) and Martin Anderson. In the early 1900s, Albert Anderson raised and sold greyhound hunting dogs. (photo courtesy Lois Dvergsten)

Another brother, Iver Anderson, and neighbors, Dinus Johnson, Gust Hallberg, and Manvil Gavick were among those who hunted

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wolves with Martin. Numerous mentions of these men in connec­tion with wolf hunting were found in Tribunes from 1910 to 1930. Submitted by Lois Dvergsten and Myrna Sovde

Two bucks for twin brothers. Kurt & Kevin Tureson with their bucks. (Tribune photo)

The furnace at the school failed during deer .hunting season. No one.wanted to be­

. lieve me and accused me ofputting a spell on it. I took advantage of the time off to go hunt­ing alone. This is my prize. (photo courtesy of Albin Zabrocki)

Poplar grove near Pelan in 1987 - Moose hunting was a popular sport in the 80s and early 90s, but due to illness and the decline ofmoose in our area, it has been discontinued. (photo by Myrna Sovde)

In 1985, at age 67, Carol Johnson, a great grandmother, bagged a ten point buck south of Greenbush. (submitted by Harold Johnson)

Goose hunting, October 1967 - Juel Graff, Glen Erickson, Joel Graff, Gerald Graff, and Hector Graff. (photo courtesy ofBob Graff)

Fox hunting, March 1955 - Juel, Bob, and Joel Graff. (photo courtesy ofBob Graff)

Myrtle and Henry V. Nubson at S.A. Mattson's dugout hunting cabin. (submitted by Henry C. Nubson)

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Duck Hunting

(Before the days of combines, binders cut and tied bundles of grain into small tightly bound sheaves, which had to be picked up and stacked. tent-like. in an upright position called shocks. After drying, the sheaves would be picked up by men with horses and rack and hauled to the threshing machine for the process ofsepa­rating the grain from the straw (threshing) .

Long before daybreak one moming, .Lowell (Haug) and I went hunting ducks in a shocked flax field that had flooded due to heavy rains that fall. Suddenly, it seemed like all the ducks in northem Minnesota were coming into this flax field to feed. We didn't have to aim at the ducks; we pointed. By law, we were allowed ten mal­lards each. Needless to say, we had many times limit. Because we had been frequenting this area so often, we decided we didn't want to take any chances by taking over our legal limit. We took ten beautiful mallards. Now what do we do the other twenty or more that we had shot?

I said to Lowell, "Let's put the extras under one of these flax shocks. After work this evening, we can take a spin out here and pick up the rest. We can't let them go to waste."

He thought it was a good idea. We both knew we were breaking the law, but sometimes even breaking the law, in a small way, was not only interesting but challenging.

We carried out our plan and drove out to the hunting field in the evening, only to find a large crew of threshers busy threshing the flax on the field where we had hidden our surplus ducks. Now wouldn't we have been stupid to stop try to retrieve our ducks? We were not about to admit we had a special purpose for the trip, so

drove the working farmers, waved to them and continued on.

Someone in that crew found a bonanza when he picked up a flax shock and found all those beautiful ducks, ready for plucking and the roaster. I never did discover who found the ducks or if Lowell and I were suspects, but I have a feeling we were at the top of their list of possible law-breakers. Excerpt with slight condensing from Story of Mv Life by Albin Zabrocki. Submitted by Eunice Korczak.

Community Jam Fest

The "Community Jam Fest" has been around for a long time. Friends and neighbors were probably bored with the long winters and wanted to do something "fun". This is how the Jam Fests be­gan.

Tommy Hanson from Strathcona invited a few musicians and a small audience to the warming house at the Strathcona rink. They built a fire in the woodstove and by music time it was comfortable. The musicians attending usually numbered seven to ten. This group continued playing until midnight - always taking time for a deli­cious lunch.

Loyd C. Melby suggested that the "Jam" be moved to the .Greenbush Community Center. There was a lot more room to ac­commodate the growing audience and the increasing number of musicians. It proved to be a positive move. Napkin lunches con­tinue to be served midway through the Jam. A huge variety ofgood­ies are brought and sometimes even lefse!

There is no charge. Everything is volunteered. Merle Lorenson is gracious enough to bring his sound system. Musicians come from the surrounding communities. There is never a shortage of musi­

"Jamming" on the patio at the Greenbush Nursing Home. Loyd Melby, Orelle Vatnsdal, Donna Graff, Mabel Trangsrud, and Gladys Graff. (Tribune

cians. Usually at least twenty come ready to entertain. The crowd fills the Community Center to overflowing.

Jam Fests are held in December, January, February, and March in Greenbush and April in Newfolden. It's a great way to spend a Sun­day afternoon listening to country music, country gospel, and some old time tunes interspersed with Ole and Lena jokes, and just visit­ing with the neighbors and having coffee. The surrounding com­munities are great in their support. Submitted by Ruth Graffand Loyd Melby.

Greenbush Motocross Park

Greenbush has always been a town of outdoor recreation. Paul Everson and Mark Miller decided that there was room for one more exciting event: motocross. During the Fourth of July Festivities in 1999, Greenbush held its first FANS motocross event on a track constructed east ofJeff's Super Service. It drew a large crowd, and the track was a favorite for the racers.

Racing dirt bike track. (photo courtesy ofRyan Sather)

Every Fourth of July since 1999 has boasted a motocross event, and its popularity resulted in the addition ofother races throughout the year. Greenbush has hosted some of the FANS racing circuit season openers as well as some Labor Day events.

Sticking to its reputation as a recreation town, Greenbush has enjoyed having the new sport in town. Submitted by Sue Lieberg with information from Paul Everson.

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After being a part ofthe Roseau County Remote Control Flyers Club, Greenbush started their own club in 1998. Active members were Bernard Gonshorowski, Troy Foss, Bryce Evans, Russ and Mary Anderson, Tim Storo, Jon Jenson, and Keith Johnson: Their activities included flying their model planes on Sundays and some evenings. They would also hold demonstrations at the airport in Greenbush during 4th of July events. Curtis Johnson is shown preparing his model plane. (Tribune photo)

Polaris, the pioneers of snowmobiling in Roseau County, cel­ebrated their 50th year of manufacturing in 2004. Fifty years ago it was important to many to have a machine that could travel on ice

snow as it is now. They have many important uses but one of the biggest is recreation. With snowmobiling, came snowmobile trail systems, snowmobile racing and ice fishing. The snowmobile has made winter easier to get around and more fun for the snowmo­bile enthusiasts.

The first Greenbush Snow Rodeo was held on March 17, 1968, with about 1500 people present. The affair was held at the local airport with 139 registered in the races. There were 96 in the cross

country races and . 62 finished. The

only casualty re­port was that of

Kvien, Roseau, who

. broke an arm while participa­tion in the kid race. Placing from Greenbush were: Leonard Janousek, third in Modified 0-320 class and 0-320 modified class; Alvin Beito third in stock 301-400 cross country;

The Town County sponsored an open house in honor Tim Kasprowicz of the local racers. Racers in attendance were standing, third in 301400 from left: Troy Pierce, 600 Pro Enduro; Terry Wahl, For- stock class' and mula I; Lynn Sather, C-D-Pro Stock and Dave Wahl, For- , . mula I. Seated is Leonard Janousek, Relic. (Tribunephoto) Randy Sm1th,

Groomer out on a snowy day grooming snowmobile trails. (Tribune photo)

first in kids races age 11 and under. Greenbush is also the home of many successful snowmobile rac­

ers. We would never have room to mention all of them but going through old papers here are some of the names from late 1960's and early 1970's: Dave Thompson, Tony Burkel, Don Omdahl, Leonard Janousek, Randy Erickson, Ernest Janousek, Wayne Burkel, Dennis Wahl and Dave Wahl. In the 1990's names added to that list include Cassie Stengrim, Todd Waage, Lynn Sather, Terry Wahl, Troy Pierce, Keith Wojciechowski, Chris Schultz, Shane Wahl, and Dustin Wahl.

Dave Wahl has won the World's Championship title twice, 1990 and 1996. Terry Wahl won it in 1998. Ofcourse that couldn't have been accomplished without their mechanic, Durmont Wahl. In Janu­ary, 2005, Dave and Durmont will be inducted into the Interna­tional Snowmobile Hall of Fame in S1. Germain, WI. They will make history by being the first brothers inducted at the same time.

Troy Pierce has also made a name for himselfby winning the Soo 1-500 along with many other races. His banner year was 1995-1996.

In January 1988, the newly-formed Roseau County Trailblazers Snowmobile Club officially opened up a new trail. The trail began in Greenbush and went to Lake Bronson, where it hooked up with 180 miles of groomed trails in Kittson County. There were over 250 miles of snowmobile trails in Roseau County at that time. The trails hook up with Lake of the Woods, Marshall, Beltrami and Kittson counties. Trails are groomed by grooming machines usu­ally once a week depending on the weather. Submitted by Karen Janousek.

Donkey softball - Rodney Langaas is on the ground. (photo courtesy ofShirley Langaas)

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As a fundraiser, nothing beats the donkey softball games. On June 3, 1949, Greenbush merchants and the farmers played. Harry Bra.­zier and Harry Prosser captained the merchants, and Menvil Borgen and Howard Huartson captained the fanners. Arvil Erickson, the merchants' first baseman, said there was only one donkey in the United States he couldn't ride, and he shot him ten years ago. Kelly Gjovik, their second baseman, said he rode donkeys long before these donkeys were ever born. On the other hand, the fanners such as Andy Duray and Jake Mooney claimed that they practiced on their farms every day, riding donkeys that they borrowed the week before. Submitted by Karen Janousek

KittenbaU

In the 40s a common pastime in Greenbush was to kittenball (softball) games on Sunday afternoon. These were usually held on the ball field on the school grounds. Sometimes they would be held at Pelan Park. It was usual for many spectators to be in their cars pulled up facing the infield. Car horns would be tooted for good plays by the home team. The following is a brief description of one of these games played on Sheep Day in 1944. I wrote this story on October 10, 1944, for an assignment in tenth grade En­glish. It may be of interest to you for inclusion in the centennial book. It is brief, and it has the names of the Greenbush players in that game.

A Game I Have Watched

This a kittenball game played in Greenbush. The Greenbush team played the Malung team and won with the score: Greenbush- 16, Malung 14. The Greenbush team consisted of Kenneth Roche, Cleatis Hershey, Rev. Lemen, Maynard Moen, Orin Paulson, Stanley Siefert, Ellerd Paulson, Donald Mattson, Sylvester, Duray, and Seymour Mortrude. It was held on the afternoon of Sheep Day, June 9. The day was hot and the players were doing their best. The Malung team was the hardest team Greenbush played that year. Many times long, high hits were caught deep in the backfield. Once, however, one was missed and three scores were run in for Greenbush. Then the Malung team retaliated with a series of ground hits and runs .until the score was 12-12. In the next to the last inning Greenbush held offMalung so they didn't make any scores. Then when Greenbush was up to bat they nlade no score. Then the last inning. Malung made no score. Greenbush had the bases loaded on the last of the last inning with Mattson up to bat. He hit one far into left field which wasn't in the pitcher's hand until two men were home. No more runs were made and Greenbush thus came out victorious. Submitted by Richard Huggett, Jr.

Sportsmen's Clubs

, Over the years Greenbush has had several Sportsmen's Clubs. As to when started we're not sure but according to the Greenbush Tribune it was reorganized in April 1949. The officers were: Presi­dent, Harley Trangsrud; Vice President, Albin Zabrocki; Treasurer, Glenn Hopkins; and Secretary', Ray Helleckson.

The goal of the club was to build it up to its former high peak of efficiency. Maynard Peterson announced that he again had millet and buckwheat seed available for farmers to plant, with three-fourths

being harvested and leaving the rest for the birds. The seed was available at Peterson Machine Co.. Plans were made for another annual crow hunt. A membership committee was appointed by Presi­dent Trangsrud and included; Math Barto, Chairman, Henry Nubson, Harold Nelson, Vernon Fugleberg, James LaVoy and Vincent Mlodzik.

Some of the work done by the club included "Operation Twig" . which entailed clearing brush from the road to the river north of Greenbush. Under the leadership of Bill Gordon and Chas. Lund the axmen were turned loose at 10:00 a.m. and slashed their way to the finish line at 3:59 1/2 p.m. Leading the group at the finish was "Beaver" Barto armed with his two bit axe followed closely by "Sabre" Frank equipped with a five foot bolo knife. Chefs Zabrocki and Hopkins prepared coffee and unlimited supply of the special "Hopkins style" of hot dogs. Among the balance of the volunteers were "Blister" Trangsrud, J.C.Smrstik, Arnold Wahl, Chas, Lund, Jr., Harold Nelson, Hilmer Anderson, Claire Swanstrom, Herb Stauffenecker and Ray Helleckson.

In 1950, the important issue at hand was the Haug road. Plans were made to have the road improved. Greenbush would be the entrance to the Roseau River Wildlife project.

On October 28, 1968, the Western Roseau County Sportsmen's Club met in Greenbush. The nlembers voted unanimously against the suggestion of State Biologist Schupp to cut sport fisherman's present limits on Lake ofthe Woods. The suggestion by Mr. Schupp was to not allow anglers to bring both a Canadian limit and Minne­sota limit to shore, after purchasing both licenses. The Club recom­mended that the commercial take of game fish be cut rather than sportsfishing to bring the lake back into balance. The biologist pointed out that there was a shortage of 2 to 3 pound Walleyes in the lake, the very size taken by the commercial fishermen.

In 1968, Tony Novacek served the mooseburger feed. The club passed a motion to support the Conservation Department in regard to a moose season. A motion to push for the $25 wolf bounty that winter passed in the Legislature. The club ordered new member­ship buttons for 1969.

In 1969 it was called the Western Roseau County Sportsmen's Club. Don Wickl:und was president.

In 1970, the club requested the County Board set aside some tax forfeited land for the benefit of all. The area suggested, covered about 7,000 acres and a lot of it was located in Unorganized Juneberry and Soler Townships. President at that time was Leo E. Walsh.

In 1971, Hank Sikorski, Juneberry, was elected as president of the Western Roseau County Sportsmen's Club. Glen Hendrickson was named vice president and Don Becken 'was re-elected secre­tary-treasurer.

Today sportsman clubs in our area include Ducks Unlimited, Minnesota Deer Hunters Association and the newly formed Qual­ity Deer Management Association (QDM).

QDM is an organization that began in 2002. It is the fITst in Min­nesota and joins 25 QDM branches nationwide. The purpose ofthe organization is to serve communities while helping mange deer herds and preserve hunting heritage. Branch President Clyde Stephens, Greenbush, has been very instrumental in the formation ofQDM in Roseau County. They continue to play an integral part in educating people in this area and help promote sound deer management in Minnesota. Submitted by Karen Janousek.

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Summer Rec Team 1983 (Jan Wollin photo) Dillon Janousek with his deer mount shot in 1993 with his Photo was taken at the 1995 Minnesota Deer Classic in St. Paul, MN, where he placed first in Youth Typical Whitetail Division. Dillon and his dad, Ernie, both displayed deer mounts at the Classic and were entered in the Minnesota Record Book and the Pope and Young Record Book. Dillon's scored 148-3/8 and Ernie's was 175-1/8 non-typical. Ernie shot his with a bow in 1994. (photo submitted by Karen Janousek)

Greenbush Summer Rec

Greenbush Summer Rec was started in the late 70s as a t-hal1 and basebal1 program for boys from kindergarten through the ninth grade. Norbert Johnson started it with help from Darrel Stomlund of Strathcona. It was started mostly to teach the kids the basics, get them involved, and to have fun. They learned to play and enjoyed it, going to play in amateur and Legion basebal1.

The organization grew to a group of 70-80 boys and was known as one of the most successful in the area. They were also known for being sharp dressers, as they had specially made unifonns in green and gold.

The city ofGreenbush has always supported Summer Rec by sup­plying a large portion ofthe funding. It has also received donations from the American Legion, the Greenbush Jaycees, the bank, many

area businesses, the ents, and private dona­tions. Fees are paid to belong, and funds have been raised through pop machines, sel1ing vari­ous items, gas raffles, concessions, etc. They sold concessions when there was no equipment in the concession stand to work with and every­thing had to hauled in each time. Now many things have been im­proved.

In 1983-84, John Rostad coached the boys. In 1985, John Wilebski took over the job and has been coach­ing ever since, celebrat­

T-Ball (Tribune photo) ing 20 years in 2005. He

does the coaching and drives the busload ofkids to the games. The kids usually take a lunch, or they bring money for a treat at the game or stop along the way home. Later girls were allowed to play, too. John coaches about 50-60 kids every summer. Robert Bentow and Roger Lorenson, along with Norbert and Darrel, have lent a hand.

Summer Rec has also worked with the swim program. In the ear­lier days, busloads kids went to Lake Bronson. They would co­ordinate so the bus would sometimes swing in to Lake Bronson State Park and they could take their swimming lessons after games. Later Greenbush built a swimming pool in town. The schedules are still coordinated between lessons and Summer Rec.

During the years other sports were added. Another 40-50 kids enrol1ed in these activities. A summer Rec picnic used to be held at the end of summer for al1 the kids, parents, coaches, and workers and their families.

Del Stordahl andAJ. Puczinski were in Jaycees in 1975 and were instrumental in getting the tennis courts built with the help of the school district and the Jaycees. Del1 ran the summer tennis pro­gram for six years, later getting help from his daughter, Shannon for one year, and Anna and Carla Mattson for two years. The pro­gram has since been discontinued.

Much later golf lessons were introduced. The coaches were Brigette Reese, Derek "DJ" Janousek, and Christine Adrian. Chris­tine still coaches golf. Girls' softbal1 was added in 2002. Ken Chris­tian is the coach.

Midgets Grades seven thru nine. Back row: Coach John Wilebski, Kurt Truscinski, Chauncey Hanson, Trevor Lorenson, Aric Bentow and David Truscinski. Front row: Justin Rasmusson, Sean Barrett, Blaine Caudill, Joey Wiskow, Tim Bentow and Kevin Kjersten. (Tribune photo)

Some of the other people involved with signing up the kids, do­ing the bookwork, and helping out have been: Kari Wiskow, Cooky Kujava, Jan Wollin, Carol Waage, Linda Berg, Kim Emery, Vandra

330

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Lorenson, Brenda Sather, Wyann Janousek, Deb Vacura, Cheryl Hanson, Sharon Emery, and Audrey Korbl. Other parents, too, have to be commended on their continuous support. They have always been there to lend a hand where needed and of course to cheer the teams on! Submitted by Linda Gieseke with information from Summer Rec coaches and workers.

Swim Day at Lake Bronson

Before the swimming pool was built in Greenbush, kids from the area took switnming les­sons at Lake Bronson State Park. The youngsters were trans­ported as a group in school buses a couple

Swim Day 1970. Back row: Larry Wang, Chuck Thomp- throu hout th son, Gary Trangsrud, Jack Sovde. Front row: John Mason g e Pederson, Julie Snare, Paul Larson, Jim Fugleberg, in front summer. The Stephen Haugen. (Myrna Sovde photo) other area

towns had swimming lessons on different days. At the end of the season, the young swimmers from all the towns competed in the various races for their age groups.

In 1970, the Greenbush swimmers not only won the number one trophy, but Gary Trangsrud set a record in the "across the lake" race and Jack Sovde was third. Gary was finishing the Senior Life­guard class and Jack, the Junior Lifeguard class. The winners in the various groups, whose points were added together for the win, are pictured. Submitted by Myrna Sovde.

Greenbush Pool

For at least thirty years, the idea of having a swimming pool in Greenbush had been a dream. On April 8, 1988, the Governor's Design Team visited Greenbush. A town meeting was held, and one thing that was abundantly clear was that a vast majority of people wanted to build a community swimming pool. At that meeting, seven people came forward and volunteered to work toward that goal. They were Tom Kujava, Doug Dahl, Carolyn Eeg, Dale and Mary Kuznia, Jan Wollin, and Nathan McFarlane. These people researched all the data and presented it to the public. A fundraising 'effort began, and a location was selected for the pool. Bids were prepared for the project, and the seven oversaw the construction project. Finally, they hired the staff and set up the summer sched­ules.

It was decided to built the pool near the school, and the ground­breaking ceremony was held on September 7, 1988. The pool would be L-shaped, 46'x66'x30', built of concrete with a diving board and a 16'x16' kids' wading pool. Also included is a 24'x50' bath

house, with an office, mechanical room, bathrooms, and changing rooms.

In 1989 the long awaited dream became a reality when the pool opened in June. The Swimming Pool Committee presented the deed for the pool to the city at a dedication ceremony as a gift from the community.

Delayne Sovde (back) and Angie Reese help Sara Reese get her feet wet at the Greenbush Pool. Angie is holding Sara. (Tribune photo)

Now in 2004, the swimming pool is still a center of summer ac­tivity as children and adults learn to swim, participate in water aero­bic classes, and cool off on a hot summer afternoon. Submitted by Jan Wollin.

Greenbush Trap Club located one mile north of town. (Linda Gieseke photo)

Fran Johnson, Del Stordahl, Nate McFarlane, and Al Johnson planned and prepared the site north ofGreenbush near the race park for shotgun shooting sports as a Jaycee project in 1973. Cement walkways for sixteen yard trap targets were installed at that time. A spring-operated thrower was used for several years before electric operated throwers were installed.

League competition featuring several local and Canadian teams has been active in shooting trap at the site for decades. A club­house, using windows removed from the Bethel Lutheran Church, was constructed in 1981 by local shooting fans, craftsmen and trades­men, and members ofthe Asmundson family from Piney, Manitoba.

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Eddie and Innette Asmundson presented the first clubhouse sign affixed to the building and a plaque in 1982 inscribed "From Your Canadian Neighbors." The current clubhouse sign was lettered by Christine Foss.

The members ofthe Greenbush Trap Club are active in local shoot­ing events, compete in Northwest Minnesota Team contests, send several shooters each year to state competition, and are dedicated by developing and promoting junior shooters. Submitted by Del Stordahl

Trap Club Notables:

The Greenbush Trap Club has produced several award-winning shooters over the years. In 1993, the Greenbush Club placed first in the Northwest State Team Shoot, scoring 933 out of 1,000. Team members included: Pam Johnson, Mike Sjodin, Loyd Melby, James Efta, Jr., Mike Wilebeski, Rick Sovde, Luke, Novacek, Frandell Johnson, Vernon Melby, and Harry Hanson.

Individual champions at the Northwest Team Shoot included Frandell Johnson in 1998 and 2000, and Rick Sovde in 2001.

Pam Johnson was the State Lady Handicap Champion in 1987. Frandell Johnson was the individual State Runner-Up in 1988.

Junior Shooter Trent Sovde won the Con Schulz Memorial Shoot at the Northwest Team Shoot in 2002 and 2003 . Tanner Pierce won in 2004.

Long-time Trap Club members Frandell and Pam Johnson don't just shoot the Greenbush leauge. During the winter months, they travel in Arizona to various meets and tournaments. In 2004, Fran won the AAA Northwest Central Zone Championship, which in­cludes teri states and two provinces.

Pam Johnson has been a member of the Greenbush Trap Club for many years. (Tribune photo)

Shooters from the Greenbush Club have won several individual championships at the Thief River Falls Shoot. Rick Sovde (1989), Frandell Johnson (1992, 1998, 1999), Pam Johnson (1990), Luke Novacek (1997), and Clay Sorterberg (2004). Junior shooter Trent Sovde won Class C in 2000 and Tanner Pierce did in 2003.

Junior shooter Trent Sovde made his first state appearance in 2003 . by claiming the State Class C Championship. In 2004, Trent was the sub-junior champion in singles and handicap and received the Diamond Band in the Minnesota Hall ofFame Youth Shoot.

For a small club, the Greenbush Trap Club has produced several excellentshooters. With active youth involvement trap shooting is a tradition that will continue to thrive in this recreation centered community. Submitted by Del Stordahl.

Village Basket Socials and Shadow Socials

Basket socials and shadow socials were popular fundraisers from the early 1900s to as late as 1950. The socials were put on by orga­nizations, schools, or other groups to raise money. When a school needed a piano or some other such frivolous items, and many not so frivolous, that were not financed in the school budget, basket socials were put on. Sometimes neighboring schools held the bas­ket social together and followed with a dance.

For basket socials each woman prepared a basket lunch for two and "anonymously" place it with other women's or girls' baskets. Baskets were auctioned and sold to the highest bidder. The high bidder then dined with the maker of the lunch. As you may suspect, often the young men went to some lengths to discover which bas­ket belonged to a favorite young lady. Bidding could be quite spir­ited if two fellow wished to dine with the same gal, or if an uncle, neighbor, or friend wished to tease a smitten young man by also

,bidding on the young lady's basket. Shadow socials were along the same line with a little different

twist. Sheets were stretched across the front ofthe schoolroom and the ladies were behind the sheets. The lone lit lamp was held be­hind each lady in tum. Instead ofthe lunch basket being auctioned, each lady's shadow was auctioned. A shadow may not be easy to recognize when the lamp is repositioned to cast a taller or shorter shadow. Also, from a side shadow close relatives may have the same profile. The man wouldn't know which sister he was bidding for or perhaps it was the mother.

Pie socials were shadow socials for which the ladies brought pies instead of a lunch. Around 1950 the Eager Beaver 4-H club had a shadow/pie social at the Dewey Townhall . After the shadow auc­tioning, singing and dancing games like "Skip to My Lou" were played. Partners were probably the bidder and the pie maker. How­ever, in the case of the younger 4-H members, the mothers made the pies.

On December 5, 1919, the Greenbush Tribune reported plans for an upcoming "Big Time" to raise funds for Village Hall improve­ments. A program including readings, vocal solos, piano duets, and selections by senior and junior choirs was promised. "The program will be worth good admission but that will be free." It was hoped that proceeds from the basket social would be over $200 and be used to fix up the interior of the hall with metal sheeting and for the placement of large panels depicting complete roster of the boys from the western Roseau County who participated in the World War." Submitted by Myrna Sovde and Eunice Korczak

Volleyball

Not much was mentioned about volleyball. In 1933, as reported by J. M. Roche, Manager, local teams organized were as follows:

W. Evenson, captain, Frank Long, O. Strandvold, H. Reese, Dr. Knutson, Chas Anderson

R. Omang, captain, Chas. Lund, Einar Johnson, Dr. Stone, O. Nubson, LeRoy Swenson;

M. Kotchevar, captain, H. Prosser, Ing. Lillemon, H. Haugen, E.R. Umpleby;

Robt. Peterson, captain, D. Lofgren, J. Roche, J. Evans, Hans M. Haug, Art Anderson.

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Wildflower Route. Pine to Prairie Trail. and Waters of the Sky Byway

Highway 11 from Greenbush to Baudette was designated as a state Wildflower Route in 1990. A dedication ceremony was held June 30 at Welcome Park as part ofa larger celebration which kicked­offGreenbush 's six-day Celebrate Minnesota event. Governor Rudy Perpich was in attendance at the dedication. The route features more than two million orchids and over one million Showy Lady Slip­pers, the largest concentration of Minnesota's state flower in the entire state. The route is intended to help protect, preserve, and restore native wildflowers and grasses in Minnesota:

Ribbon cutting for Wildflower Route; Milt Sather, Carolyn Eeg - Community Coordinator, Governor Rudy Perpich, and Mayor Hector Reese. (Back: I.S. and Stu Folland) (Linda Gieseke photo)

The Pine' to Prairie Birding Trail follows Highway 11 west from Warroad to Greenbush, Highway 32 south from Greenbush to Thief River Falls, and Highway 59 south from Thief River Falls to De­troit Lakes. The trail is over 200 miles in length. Forty-three sites along the trail, most of which are on public land or reserves open to public, provide homes for more than 275 species 'ofbirds including the Northern Goshawk, Ruffed Grouse, Greater Prairie­Chicken, Yellow Rail, American Woodcock, Snowy Owl, Northern Hawk Owl, Great Gray Owl, Three-toed and Black-backed Wood­peckers, Boreal Chickadee, Bay-breasted, Connecticut, and Morn­ing Warblers, Red and White-winged Crossbills, and Pine and Evening Grosbeaks. The sites offer some of the most spectacular wild places that Minnesota has to offer.

Named for the Northern Lights that can often be seen dancing in the sky, the Waters ofthe Dancing Sky Scenic Byway traverses 229 miles across the top ofthe state, just below the border with Canada. The route follows Highway 11 from International Falls to the North Dakota border west of Hallock through lakes, the legendary Rainy River, forests, farmland and several small towns. This byway of­fers nighttime visitors an excellent chance of seeing the magnifi­cent Aurora Borealis, better known as Northern Lights.

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Bicycling was easier and faster than walking. These men are probably from Lind Township. (photo courtesy ofNoreen Svegdahl Lorenson)

Special Memories Bowery Dance

The first time I heard the term bowery dance was when my first cousin Leona Zabrocki married Valerian Truscinski in 1947. The farm wedding reception was over and the folks went home to do chores. It was dark when Norbert and Helen decided to go to the dance and let Virginia and I go along. The dance was outdoors, by the water tower across the street from the Dembiczak Store.

We met our cousins LaVerne and Joan Kukowski. We foursome danced all night. Good dancers like Uncle Ted Dostal and the Taus brothers were scolding us. I suppose we were in their way. I could hardly walk the next day; my feet had huge blisters! Submitted by Margaret Dostal Kuznia.

Note: Virginia married Chester Szklarski, Laverne married Lawrence Kaml, and Joan married Ed McCarthy.

Malicious in Greenbush in 1932

An article in the Greenbush Tribune expressed dismay at a late­night occurrence on the previous Friday night after a dance, indi­cating that vandalism is not a problem unique to our times. The plate glass window at the front ofthe Hartz Store had been smashed. According to the writer, it looked as though someone had used a piece of stove wood to knock a large hole in the glass. Of course, since the stick ofwood was found inside the broken window, it was an easy guess.

Two cans of salmon were found near the Free Lutheran Church ­one eaten from. Since that was all that appeared to be taken, rob­bery was probably not the incentive for the breakage. "It seems a pure case of vandalism, although we fail to see how anyone could get a kick out of such a piece of devilment."

It may have been a pointless and malicious attack, but it was also a chance for the writer of the article to espouse his views: He sug­gests that some persons became drunk at the dance. "Of course it cannot be proven that an intoxicated person had anything to do with this affair, but it occurs that dances would be more pleasing to the greater number who attend if the booze was not brought there. The person who cannot enjoy himself unless he is 'soused' is in­deed in a bad way." Submitted by Eunice Korczak.

'

Walsh open car. (photo courtesy of Carol Meine)

333

Homemade fun : Orleen and Lois on stilts made by their fa­ther, Martin Anderson. (photo courtesy of Dvergsten)

Ernie Janousek washing his tricycle. Ernie is about three years old in the photo.

Early grouse hunting. (Milt Sather photo)

334

Jackie and Scotty took turns playing King on the Hill in 1958.

Leo Johnson and crew after the hunt. (photo submitted by Mickey Emery)

Four-wheeling, popular pastime. Delayne, Dezirae, and Sally on Great­grandpa's Honda in 1989. (photo sub­milled by Myrna Sovde)

Fred Kelly goose hunting in 1916. (photo courtesy ofLillian Nelson)

Riding part way to school on snow machines in 1970.

Riding the ponies. LtoR: Wendell Lindgren, Gust Hallberg, Unknown, Un-Theresa Novacek Heddan gets ready for a ride. (submitted by Theresa Heddan) known. (photo ofJohn Rhude)