Rush Report
For the residents of Rush Lake
and the Rush Lake
Watershed
Rush Lake Improvement Association, Inc.
www.rlia.org
SUMMER 2008
RUSH LAKE STATISTICS: The size of Rush Lake is in the top ten percent of MN lakes. Both lakes total 2,823 acres. The total watershed of the lakes is 14,169 acres.
WEST RUSH LAKE: Lake area = 1,464 ac., Max. depth = 42 ft, Length of shoreline = 15.8 mi. (does not include 3.1 mi around the islands), Greatest length = 3.85 mi., Littoral area = 862 ac.
EAST RUSH LAKE: Lake area = 1,359 ac., Max depth = 24 ft., Length of shoreline = 10.6 mi., Greatest length = 3.4 mi., Littoral area = 1033 acres. Littoral zone per DNR = area of the lake less than 15 ft. deep
Improving Rush Lake’s Water Quality: Campaign Progress Report
by David Cartwright, RLIA Vice President
This article is a progress report on recent
developments, that have occurred since the Winter
2008 Rush Report, as a result of efforts by the RLIA
to improve the water quality in Rush Lake.
Present Status of Rush Lake and Rush Creek
As reported in the Winter 2008 Rush Report, both
Rush Creek and Rush Lake are listed on Federal Clean
Water Act’s 303(d) list of “impaired waters” based on
data collected from these waters between 1997 and
2002. The impairment classification for Rush Creek
is due to a “low Index of Biological Integrity (IBI)”
[which is a measure of a stream’s biological health]
and, for Rush Lake, the impairment classification
is a result of “elevated levels of Phosphorous &
Chlorophyll-a”. About 297 lakes were added to the
MN impaired waters list in 2008 and, as is the case
with Rush Lake, the primary lake contaminant in
most of these lakes is Phosphorus accumulation from
farming and/or residential fertilizer.
The MN state agencies responsible for lake
and stream water quality [DNR, MPCA, SWCD]
are concerned about the pollution in Minnesota’s
lakes, rivers, and streams that degrades the quality
of life, and damages ecosystems and correcting the
contamination problems is as high priority to them
as it is to us. As previously reported, the first step to
remedy any water body that is on the federal impaired
waters list is to complete a Total Maximum Daily
Load (TMDL) study [within 15 years of the date it
was first identified as an impaired body] of all the
pollutants that enter from the watershed.
A. The TMDL Study
In the period since the Winter 2008 Rush Report,
the RLIA has completed a proposal specifically for
the TMDL study for Rush Lake and Rush Creek and
submitted that proposal to the MN Pollution Control
Agency (MPCA). It is our understanding that this
project has a relatively high priority within the Chisago
County SWCD and MPCA and that it will be initiated
as soon as there are sufficient state resources available,
hopefully in 2009.
The key components of this TMDL project are to:
(1) perform a TMDL Study of the Impaired
Waters of Rush Lake and Rush Creek and, if
appropriate, prepare a Load Reduction Work
Plan [i.e. reduce the volume of pollutants];
(2) study both bodies of water simultaneously
because Rush Creek drains Rush Lake directly
into the St. Croix river; and
(3) employ a cooperative approach in which the
MPCA will assist Chisago County in its data
collection and analysis programs, and the
County will pursue administration of the
TMDL Implementation Plans.
B. Opportunity to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Iron
Compounds
As we know from personal experience, Curleyleaf
pondweed [CLPW], present in lakes in at least 68 of
In this issue...
RLIA Contact Information .............. 2
Constitutional Amendment ............ 2
Eagle Visits RLIA ........................... 4
Let’s Get the Lead Out .................. 5
the 87 MN counties, has a major negative impact as to the value of such a study from as many other
on boating, fishing and recreation in the affected MN Lake Associations as can be obtained prior to
lakes. This invasive weed is also connected to the the submission date. This appears to be a wonderful
Phosphorous-algae cycle in that it grows during opportunity for all MN Lake Associations, including
the winter, forms surface mats in the spring, and the RLIA, because results from such a study are
then stimulates green algae growth by releasing essential before any extended lake area could be
Phosphorous when it dies back in early July (which is treated to insure that no damage would be done to the
much earlier than native lake weeds).
fish and native vegetation.
The DNR, MPCA, and CC-SWCD also recognize
C. The Rush Lake Pilot Project to Reduce CLPW
that Phosphorus contamination and the invasive
As was reported in the last Rush Report, the RLIA
CLPW are major problems in MN lakes and, in a also intends to conduct a small Pilot Project to test the
meeting held on July 8, 2008 at the DNR headquarters, effectiveness of iron filings on reducing the density of
these agencies outlined a sequence to be followed by CLPW. Although originally planned to be initiated
the RLIA which could result in the financial resources earlier this calendar year, start-up of this Pilot Project
necessary to conduct a foundation study on the use has been delayed until later this year, or early in 2009,
of “ferric iron” (e.g. iron filings) to address both the in order to prepare the LCCMR proposal and obtain
Phosphorus and CLPW problems.
their endorsements of the LCCMR proposal.
Specifically, these agencies identified a State
For those readers interested in technical details, it is
funding process by which the benefits and side effects noted here that the key chemical state of iron resulting
associated with the application of “ferric iron” (e.g. from iron filings deposited in lake water appears to
iron filings) for both
the sequestering of
P h o s p h o ro u s A N D
Rush Report
reducing the growth
Rush Lake Improvement Association, Inc.
of CLPW could be
P.O. Box 677
Rush City, MN 55069
thoroughly evaluated.
This funding mechanism
i s t h e L e g i s l at i v e Citizen Commission on
Minnesota Resources
(LCCMR) which
is made up of 17
members. Specifically,
5 State Senators, 5
State Representatives,
5 citizens appointed by
the Governor, 1 citizen
appointed by the Senate,
and 1 citizen appointed
by the House.
The
function
o f t h e LC C M R i s
to make funding
recommendations to the
MN State legislature for
special environment and natural resource projects, be “ferric iron” and, in principle, other compounds
primarily from the Environment and Natural producing “ferric iron” could be used in place of iron
Resources Trust Fund, to maintain and enhance filings. However, iron filings were used in the recent
Minnesota’s environment and natural resources. The small-scale studies on altering the chemistry of local
LCCMR developed from a program initiated in 1963 lake sediments to reduce the CLPW because it is
and, prior to June 1, 2006, over $525 million has relatively inexpensive and easily obtainable. The RLIA
been appropriated to approximately 1,214 projects expects that iron filings will be the form we will use
recommended to protect and enhance Minnesota’s for our Pilot Project in 2008/9, for the same cost and
environment and natural resources. 1 October is the availability reasons.
proposal deadline.
We will provide an update on all of these activities
The RLIA Board intends to submit a proposal to in the next Rush Report and at every RLIA Monthly
the LCCMR to have the MN-DNR administer the Membership Meeting.
appropriate study and plans to include endorsements
Scholarship Awarded .................... 5
Slow No Wake .............................. 6
Rush Lake Buoy News .................. 6
Rain Barrels .................................. 7
Reflections from President .......... 10
RLIA Gambling Sites ................... 10
Membership Roster .................... 11
“Huntin’ for Hogs” Jr. Reporter .... 12
Rush Lake Homesteaders ........... 13
Osprey Nesting Platforms ........... 14
Paradise Pride ............................ 15
Wetland Habitat .......................... 16
Page 2
Rush Report
Summer 2008
Did you know a constitutional
amendment is on your ballot on
Tuesday, November 4, 2008?
Legislators passed a bill to ask voters whether to amend the
Minnesota Constitution to increase funding for clean water,
wildlife, cultural heritage, and natural areas. (MN Law
Chapter 151, 2008)
What you will see on the ballot:
Clean Water, Wildlife, Cultural Heritage and Natural Areas
“Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to dedicate
funding to protect our drinking water sources; to protect,
enhance, and restore our wetlands, prairies, forests, and
fish, game, and wildlife habitat; to preserve our arts and
cultural heritage; to support our parks and trails, and to
protect, enhance, and restore our lakes. Rivers, streams,
and groundwater by increasing the sales and use tax rate
beginning July 1, 2009, by three-eighths of one percent on
taxable sales until the year 2034?”
OUR MISSION:
We are an association of members interested in
improving and preserving the quality of the lake and
preventing the spread of harmful aquatic plants, fish
and chemicals in an effort to provide a healthy lake
environment for the community and all its users.
2008 CHISAGO COUNTY FAIR PARADE
CLEAN WATER: LAKES, RIVERS, STREAMS AND
DRINKING WATER
“33%… to protect, enhance and restore water quality in
lakes, rivers, and streams and to protect groundwater from
degradation, and to protect drinking water sources.”
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
President
Tom McKenzie
1600 509th St
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-3844
president@rlia.org
Term limit: 2010
Vice President
David Cartwright
52429 Belle Isle Dr
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-4600
vicepresident@rlia.org
Term limit: 2010
Past President
Al Petschl
50440 Bayside Cir
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-3673
Secretary/Treasurer
Grace Dawson
52715 Beech Ave
Braham, MN 55006
763-245-2149
secretary@rlia.org
Term limit: 2009
This is what the amendment will do, if voters approve this
ballot question:
NATURAL AREAS AND WILDLIFE:
“33%… to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands, prairies,
forests, and habitat for fish, game, and wildlife.”
PARKS AND TRAILS:
“14.25%… to support parks and trails of regional or
statewide significance.”
CULTURAL LEGACY AND ARTS EDUCATION:
“19.75%… for arts, arts education, and arts access and to
preserve Minnesota’s history and cultural heritage.”
Be an informed – and engaged – voter! If you don’t vote on a
constitutional amendment, the state votes no for you.
BOARD MEMBERS:
Delores Eiden
50690 Bayside Ave
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-0867
Term limit: 2009
Pete Flom
50780 Bayside Ave
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-3558
Term limit: 2010
Ken Knoss
51445 Belle Isle Dr
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-4438
Term limit: 2010
Helen Leier
49562 Azara Ave W
Stanchfield, MN 55080
320-396-3830
Term limit: 2009
Kathleen Maloney-Nash
1498 509th St
Rush City, MN 55069
651-329-0664
Term limit: 2009
Candyce Olson
49370 Amble Ave.
Stanchfield, MN 55080
320-358-0159
Term limit: 2010
Ron Peltier
50596 Shorewood Cir
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-3670
Term limit: 2009
Larry Steeves
51480 Berry Ave
Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-3657
Term limit: 2010
Gambling Manager
Ron Eiden
50690 Bayside Ave, Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-0867 gambling@rlia.org
Rush Report Editor
Kathleen Maloney-Nash
3013 Woodlark Ln, Eagan, MN 55121
651-329-0664 rushreport@rlia.org
The Rush Report is the biannual newsletter of the
Rush Lake Improvement Association, Inc. Contact us at:
RLIA
PO BOX 677
RUSH CITY, MN 55069
www.rlia.org
The Rush Lake Improvement Association, Inc. reserves the
right to refuse any advertising which we deem unsuitable for our
newsletter or is in conflict with our mission. Advertising in this
newsletter does not constitute our endorsement of advertised
products, services or policies. The Rush Lake Improvement
Association, its advertisers, and ECM Publishers, Inc. assume
no liability for errors or omissions in this publication.
KNOW WHAT THIS IS? See Page 14.
Lake Home & Cabin Kit, Second Edition
Revised and Updated! This
attractive 3-ring binder is the
second edition of the popular
Lake Home and Cabin Kit. A
table of contents and tabbed
sections guides you to find the
answers to common lake home
and cabin questions. The Kit
contains over 50 cards of
information on Home & Septic
Systems; Trees & Woodlands;
Shoreland & Water Quality
and Wildlife & Insects. No lake home or cabin owner
should be without the University of Minnesota Extension
Service’s Lake Home and Cabin Kit, Second Edition.
Sturdy, additional cards are provided to keep pertinent
personal information about the owner’s property and
other important contacts. The 3-ring binder is an attractive
addition to any cabin owner’s bookcase.
The Lake Home & Cabin Kit, Second Edition not only
answers more questions such as how to start your septic
system in spring and preparing it for the fall, what you
should know about heating your home or cabin, and even
how to create your own rain garden...it also directs you
to programs, publications, and websites for more in-depth
advice. Plus, the second edition is updated to include all
current environmentally responsible practices that you need
to know about as a property and lakeshore owner.
The information you’ll find in these pages comes to you
from the University of Minnesota Extension Service so you
know it’s reliable.
Table of Contents Sampling:
How Do I Prevent and Remove Mildew?
What Should I Know about Heating My Home or Cabin?
Should I Treat My Drinking Water?
How Do I Test My Drinking Water?
How Do Septic Systems Work?
What Should I Do to Start My Septic System in the spring?
How Should I Prepare My Septic System in the fall?
How Do I Keep My Septic System from Freezing?
Tips for Purchasing and Building on Shoreland Property
Why Should I Choose Native Plants for My Shoreline?
How Do I Start Naturalizing My Shoreline?
How Can I Stabilize My Shoreline to Prevent Erosion?
How Can I Maintain a Healthy Lawn on My Lakeshore?
How Can I Create a Rain Garden?
What Is the Safest Way to Handle the Fish I Catch?
What Is the Correct Way to Prune My Trees?
How Can I Protect My Woodlands from Winter Damage?
How Do I Care for Storm-damaged Trees?
Should I Consider Making a Living Snow Fence?
How Can I Control Crows on My Property?
How Do I Get Rid of a Bat In My Home?
How Do I Get Rid of a Skunk?
What Do I Do with an Injured Bird of Prey?
How Do I Get Rid of Flies In My Home?
How Do I Keep Asian Lady Beetles Out of My Home?
Producer/Author: Stine, Robert; Pardello, Renee; Sagor,
Eli; etal.
Item Number: 08241
Price: $29.99
The Extension
Store is staffed
Monday – Friday,
except on major
holidays, between
8:00 a.m. and 4:00
p.m. CST.
Phone:
1-800-876-8636
Fax: 1-612-625-6281
Web orders: http://shop.extension.umn.edu
Email: ShopExtension@umn.edu
Mail:
Extension Distribution Center
405 Coffey Hall
1420 Eckles Ave
St. Paul, MN 55108-6068
Summer 2008
Rush Report
Chilson Jewelers
Rush Printing, Inc.
Statewide
Statewide toll-free: 1-800-652-9093:
toll-free:
24
hours
a day, 365 days a year
1-800-652-9093
24 hours anon-time
day,
Report
sensitive tips online:
365 days a year
www.dnr.state.mn.us/enformcement/tipreportin
Quality Jewelry at Discount Prices
Open
8-5 M-F
9-12 Sat
Specializing in Diamonds
In Store Repairs by Certified
• Goldsmith
• Diamond Setter
MOBILE
REPAIR
New Location: 250 W. 5th Street
Rush City, MN 55069
High Quality
320-358-3190
Full Service
.39¢ Stunning
Color Copies
“Let our business help your business!”
COMMERCIAL
PRINTING
Report non-time sensitive tips online:
www.dnr.state.mn.us/enforcement/
tipreporting.html
“The Diamond Store”
Cambridge • 763-689-2552
LUND’S
OUTBOARD
Page 3
• In-house design
• Forms
• Envelopes
• Business cards
• Booklets
• Laminating
• Fax service
• Invitations
8.5” X 11”
single sided
QUICK PRINTING
OFFICE SUPPLIES
• High-speed color/
b/w copies while you wait
• In-house design
• Print Cartridges
• Special orders
• Full line of office supplies
• Specialty papers
• We deliver!
Give
a cal us
l!
CAMBRIDGE, MN
‰ Lower Units
‰ Replace Steering Cables
‰ Tune-ups
‰ On-Site Service
‰ Carpeting
‰ Pontoon Redecking
‰ Buy used, junk & Repairable Outboards
John H. Lund
40+ Years Experience
612-270-5889
JERRY’S
Auto Repair Inc
• Snacks • Soups • Burgers • Salad
• Sandwiches • Pasta • Dinners • Beverages
138 S.E. 2nd Avenue, Cambridge, MN
763-689-9620
Grill Open Daily: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Pull Tabs by Rush Lake Improvement Assoc.
Always Low
Prices
No Hidden Costs
Auto & Truck New & Used Tires
ASE Certified Technicians • Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Computer Diagnostic Service • Custom Exhaust • Tune-Ups
• Brakes • Lube Service • Clutches • Air Conditioning Repair
• Computerized All Wheel Alignments • Transmission Rebuilding
• Front & Rear Suspension Work • New & Used Tires • Struts • Shocks
320-358-3476
1265 W 3rd St • Rush City
QUALITY PROFESSIONAL HAIR CARE
FOR MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN
HAROLD YERIGAN
208 SO. MAIN
763-689-2133
CAMBRIDGE, MN 55008
No minimum balance
No monthly fee
LAUNDERERS & CLEANERS, Inc.
326 FIRST AVENUE WEST
CAMBRIDGE, MN 55008
Commuter Pickup & Delivery at:
• Braham Hardware Hank • Rush City Foods
763-689-1313
Since 1923
No worries
Free online banking
Free Instant Cash & Check® card*
127 South Main St. · Cambridge, MN · (763) 689-2500
127 Opportunity Blvd N · Cambridge, MN · (763) 689-2501
www.cambridgestatebank.com
Member FDIC
*Subject to qualifications. Transaction fees may apply when used as a cash card.
����������
������
PROPANE DIVISION
211 South Cleveland
Cambridge, MN
1-800-622-9730
5734 State Hwy. 70
Pine City, MN
1-800-894-3247
Schroepfer
WELL DRILLING, INC.
Harris, MN
Complete Inventory
New Pumps and Spare Parts
• Emergency Work
• Repair all Makes of Pumps
• Screen Changing All Sizes
• Fast Modern Equipment
Wells – Pumps
Sales and Service
Residential and Commercial
WELL ABANDONMENT
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
651-237-0326
East Hwy. 95
Cambridge, MN 55008
763-689-2468
WE HAVE SOLUTIONS FOR NEARLY
EVERY LAKE WEED PROBLEM!
��Curlyleaf Pondweed treatments!
��Lake weed control service - by our specialists
��DIY herbicides - for self application
��Lakemaid - automatic weed control system
CHECK OUT OUR RETAIL STORES!
Open year-round!
Open seasonally!
12425 Ironwood Circle
Rogers, MN 55374
763-428-9777
877-428-8898
5114 North Star Lane
Nisswa, MN 56468
218-963-2221
Visit our website at
www.lakerestoration.com
Joan Stottler
4840 Rush Lake Road, Rush City, MN 55069
1 mile west of Rush City exit 169
651-674-0126 • 651-674-0129
www.betweentherushs.com
email: betweentherushs@netscape.com
Open 10-5 • 7 days a week!
Boat & Pontoon Storage
on Rush Lake
Winter or Summer
Indoor or Outdoor Storage
Shrink wrapping is available
If you do not have a pontoon trailer, we can
take your pontoon out of the water in the fall
and put it back into the lake in the spring.
RUSHMORE CAMPGROUND
(a seasonal campground)
555 – 510th St. W • Stanchfield, MN 55080
320-396-2186
Page 4
Rush Report
Summer 2008
Angel the Eagle Visits the RLIA
by Candy Olson, RLIA Board Member
On 7/19/08, Bridget Goetl from the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, MN
made a visit to the monthly meeting of the Rush Lake Improvement Association at
the Nessel Town Hall. She brought a very special guest. This guest was Angel; a
nine year old Bald Eagle that was found as a fledgling, on the ground near her nest,
in Grantsburg, WI. She had a broken left wing and could never fly again. She was
taken to the U of M Raptor Center where she was cared for until she was taken to
the National Eagle Center.
Bridget is one of the handlers who educates both on site at the Eagle Center and
off site like at the RLIA There were many excited children and adults in attendance.
Everyone got a chance to have their photo taken with Angel, and everyone had
their chance to ask great questions. Some of the questions asked were: What do
they eat? They like to eat fish but will eat rabbits or mice (we all got to watch Angel
enjoy a meal of raw rabbit); how fast can they fly? They can fly 20 - 60 mph and can
dive 100 mph, but they would rather float in a warm air current; how big do their
nests get? They come back to the same nest every year and they continue to add
to their nest. The largest documented nest is in FL and is 20 feet deep, 10 feet wide
and weighed 20 tons. A young woman who witnessed something not many people
get to see asked an interesting question. She witnessed two eagles lock talons while
high in the air. They stayed connected, tumbling through the air, until they almost
reached the ground! Bridget explained that this is a mating ritual where the female
PHOTO by Grace Dawson, RLIA Secretary/Treasurer
– the stronger/
larger of the breed
– is looking for a
good mate. If the
male releases from
her grasp too soon
he is not a good
mate. The women
in attendance
thought it was a
very good trait to
have in choosing
a m at e !
H ow
far can they see?
Bridget answered
by telling us that if
we had eagle eyes
we would be able
to stand at one
end of a football
field and easily PHOTO by Adie Hedman, RLIA member
read a newspaper
located at the other end! One other interesting thing we learned about the eagle,
they keep their nest clean. They pick food scraps up and fling them out of the nest.
They are a very clean bird! Eagles love water; the Eagle Center makes a weekly trip
to the beach to allow their resident eagles to bathe and frolic in the water. We all
learned a lot from Bridget and Angel.
Bridget explained many special things about the eagles at the Eagle Center. One
important thing was that these eagles were injured, like Angel, and can never be
released back into the wild, and #2 the eagles are used for educational purposes.
There are many eagles in and around the Rush Lake area and nests have recently
been seen. It was great to have Bridget and Angel come to educate us all so we can
respect and understand the eagle and keep them around our area for a long time to
come.
We want to thank the following businesses for helping us with the travel expenses
involved in bringing Bridget and Angel to us: Rush Point Store, Ray’s Fishing
Guide Service,Taxidermy & Bait Shop, Rushmore Campground, Rush Lake Resort
and Peoples Realty GMAC Real Estate
For more information on the National Eagle Center in Wabasha visit
www.nationaleaglecenter.org
THOMPSON’S SEWER SERVICE
East Central
RipRap &
Landscape
& SOIL TESTING, INC.
COMPLETE SEPTIC TANK
SEWER & DRAIN SERVICE
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
4 Pumping & Backflushing
4 Drain & Sewer Lines Cleaned with Speedrooter
or Hi Pressure Water Jet
4 Frozen Sewer Lines Thawed
4 Line Inspection • Camera Service
4 Lift Pump Replacement
4 System Troubleshooting 4 Portable Toilets
4 Perc Testing • Septic Design & Specialized
• BOULDER WALLS
• SHORELINE STABILIZATION
• LANDSCAPING
• SKIDSTEER WORK
Fieldstone RipRap Placement
to protect your lakeshore from
ice and wave erosion.
Protect Your Valuable Investment
320-358-3104
Systems for Problem Sites & Small Lots
4 Septic System Installations
PHIL THOMPSON, OWNER
STATE CERTIFIED • LICENSED
BONDED • INSURED
(320) 358-9941
49861 GOVERNMENT RD
RUSH CITY
Summer 2008
Rush Report
Let’s get the lead out
Eagles, loons, ducks, pelicans, cranes, herons, and
other waterbirds on our lake – Rush Lake –can die
from lead poisoning after swallowing lead fishing
sinkers and jigs lost by anglers. Why? Waterfowl find
food in the mud at the bottom of a lake. They swallow
small stones and grit to aid in grinding up their food.
Some of the grit may contain lead from angler’s
equipment. Fish get poisoned when they swallow lead
weights on fishing lines. Birds of prey, such as eagles,
eat the poisoned fish and waterfowl.
Lead is a toxic metal. A bird with lead poisoning will
have physical and behavioral changes, including loss of
balance, gasping, tremors, and impaired ability to fly.
The weakened bird is more vulnerable to predators. It
may have trouble feeding, mating, nesting or caring for
its young. It becomes emaciated and often dies within
2-3 weeks after ingesting the lead.
LEAD FACTS: *It is estimated that every angler
loses 1 fishing weight for every 6 hours of fishing.
• Manufacturers produce nearly 480 million sinkers
every year and 98% are made of lead; this translates to
nearly 2700 metric tons of lead being used by American
anglers (primarily to replace lost weights).
• Nationwide, lead poisoning accounts for up to 57%
of adult loon deaths.
• The Raptor Center at the U of M
has been monitoring injured bald eagles
since 1980; 23% of the admitted birds
have been victims of lead poisoning.
Lead poisoning is avoidable. There
are non-toxic, lead free options available
for nearly all types of tackle. They
are becoming easier to find and many
are made right here in Minnesota. Watch for more
information at an upcoming RLIA meeting. ---Candy
Olson
Don’t throw old lead tackle in the trash!
Bring it to your hazardous waste collection site.
Page 5
2008 RLIA Grant Allen Scholarship
Awarded to Local Senior
The 3rd annual $600 RLIA Grant Allen Scholarship
was awarded to Rush City High School Senior Amy
Carlson at the May 17, 2008 Rush Lake Improvement
Association Membership Meeting. Amy, a well rounded,
accomplished student, made the A honor roll all 6 yrs of
high school and was ranked 4th in her class with a GPA of
3.9048. She was a captain on her basketball and softball
teams and received many athletic awards. Amy was
student director for the all school play, received the Senior
Drama Award her senior year and was involved with the
Knowledge Bowl, National Honor Society and FCCLA.
She played the alto sax in the concert, jazz and pep bands
and was asked to participate in the Two Rivers Honor
Band. As a Girl Scout she earned her Bronze, Silver and
Gold awards. Amy belongs to the Oasis Saddle Club and
participated in the 4-H horse project. She trained her
own horse in games and competed in the County Fair
and WSCA horse shows. She taught Sunday School and
has volunteered for numerous organizations. During the
summer she worked as a lifeguard and swimming lessons
teacher at the Rush City Aquatic Center. Amy read her
essay about Rush Lake to the group and told of her
plans to attend the University of North Dakota. Upon
graduating from college Amy told us she would like to
work in a hospital or private clinic as a physical therapist,
live in a small town like the one she grew up in, continue
horseback riding and training horses and live a happy and
fulfilling life surrounded by her family and friends.
When the scholarship was initiated, in the summer of
2005, it was dedicated to the memory of Grant Allen
Jestus. On May 24, 2003, 5-year-old Grant lost his life
on West Rush Lake due to a tragic boating accident.
The scholarship dedication serves as a constant reminder
of how safety awareness saves lives. Guest speaker
Chisago County Sergeant Mary McCarthy, the 2008 State
DNR Boating Safety Deputy of the Year, emphasized
the importance of that reminder. Sergeant McCarthy
explained that since the Grant Allen Law went into effect
she has seen a marked increase in the wearing of life
jackets by children and she thanked the RLIA for their
support and promotion of the law. The RLIA presented
the Chisago County Water Patrol with three jumbo totes
PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Sergeant
Mary McCarthy, Ken Knoss, Allen Johnson, Kathleen
Maloney-Nash, Amy Carlson, Joe Pung, Kimberly
Watson-Grant’s mom, Dan Watson, Nancy Johnson.
The Johnsons are Kim’s parents, Ken, Joe and Kathleen
are members of the RLIA Grant Allen Scholarship
Committee. Photo by Grace Dawson.
loaded with new children’s life jackets, ranging in sizes
from infant to extra large, that will be given to boaters
who have children aboard with either no life jacket on or
who are wearing non-Coast Guard approved, improper
fitting or lesser quality PFDs. The donation was made
possible by monetary contributions from Polaris in North
Branch and Wal-Mart in Cambridge. The RLIA extends
its gratitude to both businesses for their support and
generous donations.
The RLIA Grant Allen Scholarship is available to
any student attending a post secondary school. The
requirements to apply for the 2009 scholarship will be
posted this winter on the RLIA website www.rlia.org and
at Rush Lake area high schools. Funding for the $600
RLIA Grant Allen Scholarship is made possible by a
$300 contribution from the RLIA matched by $300 from
funds donated by private individuals. Donations to the
scholarship fund can be sent to: RLIA, Attn Scholarship
Fund, PO Box 677, Rush City, MN 55069.
Licensed – Bonded – Insured
MN Lic. #20186878
NICHOLAS
CONSTRUCTION INC.
Commercial & Residential Building (new & remodel)
Septic Systems
Pat Mattson
Contractor
Office/Fax: 763-689-2463
Cell: 612-490-8342
Page 6
Rush Report
Slow No Wake
SLOW NO WAKE IS DEFINED AS:
The operation of a watercraft at the lowest possible speed necessary
to maintain steerage and in no case greater than five miles per
hour. State Statute gives the County the authority to regulate
the water surface use. County Ordinance has adopted resolution
number 001115-5 which gives definitions, and explanations for
this ordinance. Officers have discretion in enforcing the ordinance,
just as they do with most other laws. Violation of the Slow No
Wake ordinance is a Misdemeanor and is a mandatory court
appearance for the violator. As with other Misdemeanor crimes
the Officer must witness the offense to issue a citation. There are
a few exemptions to the Slow No Wake rule. Authorized resource
management, emergency and enforcement personnel are exempt when acting in the
performance of their official duties.
HOW DO YOU STAY IN COMPLIANCE?
It’s easy……… slow Down, Look behind and to the sides and watch to see if you are
leaving a wake. And remember it’s No Wake not some wake.
Deputy Karl Schreck, Chisago County Sheriff’s Office, Water Patrol
RLIA Thankful for Pontoon Donation
The Rush Lake Improvement
Association would like to acknowledge
RLIA members Richard & Carrie
Schalo for their generous donation
of a 1978 Sylvan 20 foot pontoon to
be used for placing and removing the
waterway markers on Rush Lake. The Schalos answered the request we printed in the
last Rush Report issue. Larry Steeves is installing a lift system to aid in pulling buoys
out of the water. Our buoy volunteers are especially appreciative because having an
older pontoon dedicated for buoy use will save a great deal of wear and tear on their
personal pontoons. Thank you Richard & Carrie, we truly appreciate the donation!
INVEST IN THE
FUTURE RELEASE YOUR
CATCH
Rush Lake Buoy News
The Rush Lake Improvement Association has always been fortunate to have
members who voluntarily place and remove Rush Lake’s waterway markers each
spring and fall. It is anything but a glamorous job; imagine yourself using your own
boat, motor and gas to haul dirty, wet, slimy, heavy buoys out of the cold water on a
windy, chilly, sometimes-raw fall day. That’s exactly what one member volunteer has
been doing for years, often single-handedly, and this year, as he passes the “hook” to
someone else, we want to thank Steve Schneider for his many years of hard work and
dedication. Steve is retiring from buoy duties and deservedly so. Thank you Steve, we
appreciate all you have done. Tom Muellner, Jr. and Pete Flom will continue with the
West Rush buoy duties. We have not named all the volunteers, but we appreciate and
thank all of you, both past and present, for your service and contributions.
Several members spent time this year inputting GPS waypoints for the buoys.
Pete and Jackie Flom did all the buoys on West Rush and Larry Steeves and Ray
Abrizenski took the readings on East. A map is being produced with all the buoy GPS
points and will be published this spring. Boaters will be able to program the buoy
locations into their own systems, providing added safety, especially for night boating
if they set their GPS systems to sound an alarm when within 100 (or other chosen
number) feet of a point.
Sadly, unless you are one who looks forward to winter, it’s that time of year to pull
the buoys out of Rush and put them in storage at Rushmore Campground on West
and Rush Lake Resort on East. Thank you Leiningers and Petersons for providing the
storage.
At this time we would like to remind all boaters that it is illegal to tamper with
waterway markers. The MN Statute is: 86B.111 NAVIGATION MARKERS AND
BUOYS, Subd.2 Removal and damage to buoys prohibited. The statute states,
“Except as authorized by the commissioner, a person may not obstruct, remove,
damage, or destroy a buoy structure placed in the waters of this state in accordance
with this chapter or by authority of the United States”. (This includes the solar lights
that we place on the buoys). If caught tampering with a buoy, a person will likely
be facing a misdemeanor charge and fine under the Criminal Damage to Property
Statute. In addition, waterway markers are placed for navigation safety and the
locations are not the responsibility of the Rush Lake Improvement Association. Buoy
locations are determined by the Sheriff’s Dept. Do not attempt to relocate a buoy. If
you have any questions or concerns contact RLIA Board Member Larry Steeves or
the Chisago County Sheriff.
HELP WANTED:
Rush Report Ad Exec
Endorsed by the Rush Lake Improvement Association
INSTANT
Summer 2008
Contact the Editor by e-mail (P.2) for a job description.
BEAUTY
ENJOYMENT
LAWN!
When you do it with sod!
Our sod is harvested and
delivered fresh to your
yard on trailers equipped
with portable forklifts.
Pick up or delivery. Fall is
a great time to sod your
lawn. Plan ahead!
The HoeJoe! Safe & Easy to Use.
Give us a call.
Since 1955
The HoeJoe is a high quality American-Made tool
with a steel-plated end specifically designed to cradle
hot logs safely and effectively.
The 68” HoeJoe is perfect for backyard bonfires, lake homes
& cabin retreats. The 36” HoeJoe Jr. is ideal for patio pits, RVs &
campsites.
The HoeJoe: a great gift for the bonfire lover in your life!
HoeJoe - just $39.95
North Branch, Minnesota
651-674-7540 • 1-800-328-2040
www.harleysodinc.com
HoeJoe Jr. - just $34.95
For more information go to www.hoejoe.com or 1-877-570-2487.
Order online or find retail locations listed on website.
www.hoejoe.com
Let’s Get Ready to Bonfire!!
Summer 2008
Rush Report
Page 7
Features to consider when buying or making a rain barrel
Filter—to keep out debris
and mosquitoes
Removable lid or opening—for cleaning
inside the barrel
1.5 inch diameter overflow—attach sump-pump
RESTRICTIONS ON RAIN BARREL USE
WHAT IS A RAIN BARREL?
A rain barrel is any type of container used to catch �� Water collected from rain barrels is not suitable
water flowing from a downspout. Rain barrels refor human or pet consumption.
duce the amount of stormwater runoff by collecting �� Due to lack of research data, water collected in
roof runoff and storing the rainwater for future use.
a rain barrel is not recommended for watering
fruit or vegetable gardens.
�� The water flow (and pressure) will be less than
HOW DOES IT WORK?
from your outdoor spigot, making sprinklers
The rain barrel is placed underneath a shortened
ineffective. Plan to use soaker hoses, handdownspout, diverting the roof runoff into the rain
held spray nozzles and/or watering cans. Elebarrel. Placing the rain barrel on a STURDY platvating your rain barrel on a sturdy platform will
form will allow for more clearance under the
increase the flow.
spigot, and it will also increase the rate of flow if
you are attaching a hose to the barrel’s spigot.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT RAIN BARRELS
HOW DO I MAINTAIN THE RAIN
BARREL?
��
Rainwater can actually help improve
the health of your gardens, lawn and
During the spring and summer
trees. Rainwater is naturally “soft” and
months routinely inspect your rain
devoid of minerals, chlorine and other
barrel. Remove any debris that has
chemicals found in city water.
accumulated on the lid that might
�� During a one-inch rain event 0.6 galblock the screen mesh. You should
lons of water will fall on a square foot of
also routinely clean the inside of
roof and 54 gallons will fall on 90 square
your rain barrel. During the winter
feet of roof—enough to fill a 55 gallon
months, remember to take your barrain barrel. To collect twice this volume
rel out of operation. Simply turn it
from the same downspout, connect the
upside down or store it inside and
overflow hose from the first rain barrel to
redirect the downspout away from
a second rain barrel.
the foundation.
�� A plastic rain barrel may be painted any color
you wish. Use spray paint specially formulated
BENEFITS OF USING A RAIN BARREL
to bond well to plastic surfaces.
�� They provide an alternative to tap water for �� Rain barrels can be purchased at a cost between $70-$300. Or, you can reduce your
watering lawns and flower gardens.
costs considerably by making your own.
�� They will help reduce peak volume and velocity
of stormwater runoff reaching lakes and rivers.
�� They will help reduce peak water demands
during the summer months.
Start a new trend—by placing rain barrels around your house, you will be teaching and
encouraging others in your neighborhood to do the same!
Optional spigot—for
hose and direct to a second
rain barrel or to an appropriate site away from the foundation (Note: 3/4-inch garden
hose overflow is often used,
but will not accommodate
heavy rain events.)
Have you ever watched a river of rainwater run down your driveway into the lake or storm sewer? Or
even worse, seep into your basement? Collecting roof runoff in rain barrels is a good solution to these
problems and it also helps alleviate stressed water systems and conserve limited resources. Although
rain barrels have been around for thousands of years, people are now encouraged more than ever to
use them as a way to protect our lakes and rivers while saving money on water bills.
filling watering cans
Spigot—for garden
hose attachment
Rain barrel suppliers in Minnesota
Barrel suppliers in Minnesota
(for making your own rain barrels)
Sustainable Community Solutions Northfield
(507) 664-2023
www.renewnorthfield.org
53-gallon, white oak rain barrels for $159.00
Western Container
New Hope
(612) 338-2413
www.bargaincontainer.com
Gerten’s
(651) 450-1501
55-gallon, closed-top, blue, plastic barrels for
$16.00. Pick up only.
Inver Grove Heights
www.gertens.com
65-gallon, black, plastic rain barrel, $179.99
75-gallon, green, plastic rain barrel, $179.99
Northland Arboretum
(218) 829-8770
Brainerd
Consolidated Container Co.
Minneapolis
(612) 781-0923
www.containerexperts.com
55-gallon, blue plastic containers for $65.14
55-gallon, terra cotta plastic rain barrels for $88.80
Mills Fleet Farm Stores
various locations
65-gallon, gray or tan plastic “ rain barrels for
$139.95
Other sources of rain barrels
��
��
��
www.rainbarrelsandmore.com
www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com
www.verdestrategies.com
Rain barrel construction
��
http://home.comcast.net/~leavesdance/
rainbarrels/construction.html
�� www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Content/DEP/
Rainscapes/pdf/barrel.pdf
�� www.rwmwd.org/ (under “Publications”)
The above information is current as of February 2008.
We recommend calling the above suppliers before making a
purchase to verify cost and availability.
To receive a hard copy of the fact sheet, contact Jackie Froemming, University of Minnesota
Extension, 218-824-1068, froem022@umn.edu
Mell
Construction, Inc.
EXCAVATING CONTRACTOR
Residential & Commercial
Site work
Onsite Sewer
Systems
New and
Upgrades
Buzz Mell
Serving you
since 1987
50155 Clover Trail
Lic #626 • Bonded • Insured
Rush City • 320.358.4652
Page 8
Rush Report
J O H N
H I R S C H ’ S
Summer 2008
C A M B R I D G E
M O T O R S
Things Are Different Here!
Silverado 2500 HD
THE VERY BEST
FROM OUR FAMILY
TO YOURS THIS YEAR!
2008 CHEVROLET TAHOE
2008 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
2008 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE
2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA
2008 PONTIAC SOLSTICE
2008 PONTIAC TORRENT
2008 PONTIAC G6
2008 PONTIAC G5
2008 BUICK LUCERNE CXL
2008 BUICK LACROSSE
2008 BUICK ENCLAVE
2008 BUICK LUCERNE CXS
Chevrolet•Pontiac•Buick
cambridge-motors.com
800-247-1168
700 South Garfield St. Cambridge
Things Are Different Here!
HWY 10
I-35
763-689-7600
HWY 95
HWY 65
Cambridge
Sales: Mon-Thurs 9-9 Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5 Service: Mon- Fri 7-6 Sat 8-4
HWY 169
John Hirsch’s
HWY 242
Summer 2008
Rush Report
J O H N
H I R S C H ’ S
Page 9
C A M B R I D G E
M O T O R S
John Guarantees It!
All New
Dodge Ram
REAL PEOPLE.
REAL SERVICE.
REAL SAVINGS.
“I want every one of my neighbors on Rush Lake to
own a Cambridge Motor’s Vehicle — So, I’ll give you
an extra $100 off for sharing
your favorite fishing spot!”
2008 JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED
2008 JEEP PATRIOT
2008 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE
2008 JEEP COMPASS
2008 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN
2008 DODGE NITRO
2008 DODGE AVENGER
2008 DODGE CALIBER
2008 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY
2008 CHRYSLER ASPEN
2008 CHRYSLER SEBRING
2008 CHRYSLER 300
Chrysler•Dodge•Jeep
cambridge-motors.com
800-247-1168
700 South Garfield St. Cambridge
Things Are Different Here!
HWY 10
I-35
763-689-7600
HWY 95
HWY 65
Cambridge
Sales: Mon-Thurs 9-9 Fri 9-6 Sat 9-5 Service: Mon- Fri 7-6 Sat 8-4
HWY 169
John Hirsch’s
HWY 242
Rush Report
BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO
RLIA
BAR
BINGO
Sundays • 1:30 p.m.
Pace’s Tavern & Grill
Stark
Wednesdays • 6:30 p.m.
Rush Hour Bar & Grill
@ Bulrush Golf Club
Proceeds go to Rush Lake Improvement Projects.
H LIVE BAIT & FISHING TACKLE H
H OFF SALE LIQUOR, WINE & BEER H
H LP TANK REFILLS H
ALSO PROVIDING:
• Groceries • Baking Supplies • Ice
• Ice Cream Treats • Gifts
• Greeting Cards
We would like to thank RLIA and our
community for patronizing our store.
763-689-1088
www.rushpointstore.com
PULLTABS PULLTABS
BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO
Open Year Round
24 Hour Pay at the Pump
BP Gasoline with Invigorate™
Fishing reports at
PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS
Pulltabs benefit the Rush Lake
Improvement Association Projects at:
EAGLE’S CLUB 2663
Rush City
PACE’S TAVERN & GRILL
Stark
PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS
Another fiscal year (7/07-6/08) has come to an end.
The RLIA Charitable Gambling Report for the year is
as follows:
Total Sales: $940,187.18
Prizes Paid Out: $776,442.00
Taxes Paid Out: $35,397.56
Total Operating Expenses: $100,961.83
Net Profit: $29,764.19
We paid $14,314.76 for weed control in the
lake, $4440.00 for a lake study, $1506.76 in other
charitable donations and we placed $3500 in a channel
maintenance account. Detailed Gambling Reports are
always available at the monthly RLIA Membership
Meetings.
We will be starting bar bingo at two locations;
Pace’s Tavern & Grill on 9/14/08 at 1:30 P.M. and Rush
Hour Bar on 10/1/08 at 6:30 PM. We sell pull tabs at
Rush Lake Resort, Rush City Eagles, Rush Hour Bar,
Sidelines Sports Grill and Pace’s Tavern & Grill. Please
support our partners in this endeavor.
Thanks to all our employees for their commitment
and hard work! Ron Eiden, RLIA Gambling Manager
RUSH HOUR BAR & GRILL
@ Bulrush Golf Club
RUSH LAKE RESORT
East Rush Lake
SIDELINES SPORTS GRILL
Cambridge
Thank you for patronizing our
charitable gambling establishments!
License #03123
PULLTABS PULLTABS
Thank You,
Tom McKenzie, RLIA President
RLIA Membership Meetings are held on the 3rd
Saturday of each month at the Nessel Town Hall,
49205 Acacia Trail, Stanchfield, MN 55080. We begin
serving fresh coffee & baked goods at 8:00 A.M. The
meeting begins promptly at 8:30 A.M. Visitors are
always welcome! We try to schedule guest speakers in
advance, and announce it on the post card, but that’s
not always possible. The best way to avoid missing out
on an informative topic or special guest speaker is to
attend the meeting, which, on average, lasts 1 to 1-1/4
hours. We look forward to seeing you at the meetings,
please join us! ~Your Board
Gambling Manager’s Report
BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO
While having these thoughts of gaining the
support from other groups it would be wonderful if
we could draw on the energies and expertise within
our own association. A number of times in the past
we have asked the membership what it would take to
get more of them truly involved. If this application
is successful what we’ll have here is a project that
will benefit everyone who has a interest in or uses
the lake. I am urging those who have a keen interest
in making Rush Lake a healthy Lake to step up and
take a roll in making it happen. Check the Board
Members phone list in this issue, give any of us a call
if you have the time and are willing to join us in any
of are activities.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS
Watching the 2008 Beijing
Olympics with the 8/8/8 theme
the announcer was explaining
to the viewers that the Chinese
believe that the number eight is
the luckiest of all numbers in
that vast nation. This got me
thinking maybe 2008 would
bring some good fortune to the
Rush Lake Improvement Association in its quest
for the LCCMR Grant request. The Grant Request
is intended to fund a State sponsored research
program to evaluate a non herbicide treatment to
reduce lake phosphorous along with the residual
benefit of controlling curly leaf pondweed. Well,
it didn’t take long for reality to click in. It has,
and will take, a great deal more hard work by the
committee to accomplish this worthy program. We
(the RLIA) are now in the process of soliciting the
support of a hundred or more lake associations
plus cities, counties, conservation, and watershed
districts which well help underscore the significance
of these problems and the need to bolster this grant
application.
www.rlia.org
BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO BINGO
Reflections from the
President
Summer 2008
PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS
Page 10
FULL SERVICE LOUNGE
Located @ Bulrush Golf Club
• PULL TABS
by Rush Lake Improvement Association
• RLIA BAR BINGO
Starts Wednesday Oct. 1 6:30 pm
• KARAOKE CONTEST
Coming this fall - Watch for Details
Interested in starting Saturday Cribbage
Tournaments or Wii Golf Tournaments beginning
Saturday, October 25? Call 320-358-1050 to
express interest and get more details.
HAPPY HOUR
1/2 OFF Mon-Thurs 4-6 pm
on all Tap, Domestic Beer & Rail Drinks
RUSH HOUR
$1.00 OFF Fri-Sun 9-10 pm
16 Oz Tap Beer
• 18 Hole Championship Golf
• Club House
• Pro Shop
• Golf Instruction
• Driving Range
• Senior Rates
• Twilight Rates after 4 p.m.
• Season Passes
• Golf Leagues
• Junior Summer Program
FALL/WINTER HOURS:
Home of the Rush City
Tigers Golf Team
SNOWMOBILERS WELCOME!
SPECIAL FALL RATES
FOR RLIA MEMBERS
Beginning Nov. 15 - April 14
Closed Sun, Mon, Tues
Open 3 pm-Close Wed-Fri • Sat 11 am-Close
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
Oktoberfest/Customer Appreciation Day
605 Brookside Pkwy • Rush City, MN 55069
320-358-1050 • Toll Free 877-358-1050
Off Hwy. 35W take Rush City Exit go West to Brookside Parkway look for signs
NEW WEBSITE: www.bulrushgc.com
EMAIL: golf@bulrushgc.com
Summer 2008
RLIA Membership Roster
Rush Report
Page 11
As of September 2, 2008
MEMBERSHIP TOTAL 9/2/08:
The code preceding your name represents the year your dues are paid through and Look how we have grown! The membership
the level of your membership. The membership level codes are: S for $20 Sunfish, B total reported in the Winter 2008 Rush
for $50 Bass, W for $100 Walleye and M for $101+ Muskie. Example: 08.B means Report, as of Feb. 10, 2008, was 327.
Paid through Dec 31, 2007:
43
dues are paid for Jan 1-Dec 31, 2008 at the Bass level. The roster reflects dues
Paid through Dec 31, 2008:
282
payments received through September 2, 2008; please contact the Secretary if you
Paid through Dec 31, 2009:
33
have any questions or corrections to the report (see page 2 for contact information).
Paid
through
Dec
31,
2010:
3
Annual dues are due in January for the calendar year Jan 1-Dec 31. Please be sure
Paid through Dec 31, 2011:
1
to include a completed Membership Registration Form with your dues when you send
Paid through Dec 31, 2013:
1
in your membership renewal. A form has been inserted in this publication and is also
Honorary Members - HON:
3
available online at www.rlia.org and at the monthly membership meetings. Be sure to
Total: 366
let us know if your address has changed or if any other corrections need to be made.
08.S 2 Eskies Floral & Greenhouse,
Jim & Lois Noon
08.S Abrahamson, Douglas & Shelley
08.S Abrizenski, Ray & Sandy
08.S Adams, Edward
07.S Adams, Wally
08.S Adamson, Ken & Marice
08.S Akerson, Donald & Carol
08.S Albrecht, Jeff & Penelope
08.S Aldinger, Gaylord & Bonnie
08.S Anderson, Arne & Iona
08.S Anderson, Marvel
09.S Anderson, Ray & Shelley
09.S Anderson Sr., Robert L.
08.M Archambault, Dave & Amy
07.S Arneson, Tom & Kathy
08.S Ausmus, Ken & Cheryl
08.S Bachmeier, Ralph & Alexis
07.S Baklund, Gordon
08.S Bandholz, Dick & Marilyn
08.S Barabash, Arnold & Jan Fearing
08.S Beach, John & Janice
08.S Beach, Gary & Marie
08.S Beers,Douglas & Shirley
09.S Bergman, CJ & Jenny
07.S Between the Rushs’ Antiques,
Joan Stottler
08.S Bittner, Richard & Julie
08.S Black, Dave & Cheryl
08.S Bleed Howard & Mary Rahman
08.S Block, Phil & Bonnie
07.S Block, Steve & Debbie
08. Blomquist, Howard & Lorna
09.S Bohaty, Jim & Phyllis
08.S Brand, Paul & Jeri
11.S Broberg, Leigh & Betzy
08.S Brokke, Wayne & Debbie
08.S Brown, Kevin & Jane
07.S Bush, James & Laura
08.B Campbell, James & Lisa
08.S Card, Ronald & Carol
08.S Cardinal, Doug & Diane
08.S Carlson, Charles & Sharon
08.S Cartwright, David & Carole
08.S Ceaglske, Norman & Beverly
08.S Cermak, Dale & Sue
08.S Chaput, Craig & Joy
08.S Chilson, Donald & Ruth Ann
07.S Chilson, Brian & Karen
08.S Christians, Charles & Betty
08.S Clemmer, Monty & Diane
08.S Coleman, Paul & Judith
08.S Cook, Bradley & Linda
08.S Dawson, Grace
07.S Dillner, Dave & Mary
08.S Dillon, Gene & Marlys
08.S Dock, Edna
08.S Dock, Steve and Deborah
09.B Dolinsky, Jerry & Jeanne
08.S Dooley, Edward & Marlene
08.S Dosch, Todd & Julie
07.W East Central Sanitation,
Brad Cook
08.S Ebert, Mark, Wendy & Sarah
08.S Egelkraut, Marlene
08.S Eiden, Ron & Delores
08.S Ellsworth, Ken & Joann
08.S Elmquist, James & Rosalind
08.S England, Bob & Lee
08.S Enzenauer, Kirk & Gladys
08.S Erickson, Allen
08.S Erickson, Kent & Janice
08.S Erickson, Jay & Sherry
08.S Erickson, Jeff & Jill
09.S Erickson, Lloyd & June
08.S Faber, Laurie & David
08.S Fangel, Marion
08.S Farrar, Ronald
08.S Findell, Dean & Robin
09.S Fisher, Scott C.
07.S Fleck, Jerol & Mary Pat
08.W Flickabirds Resort,
Scott & Deb Mell
08.S Flom, Peter & Jacqueline
08.S Foerster, Dennis & Diana
08.S Folk, David
08.S Folk, George & Julie
08.S Fortuna, Ray & Carol
08.S Foss, Joe & Wendy
08.S Franco, Richard & Nancy
08.S Frantzen, Michael
09.S Fruetel, Sharon
08.S Gadbois, Brad & Willa
08.S Garbe, Ronald & Cindy
09.S Gardner, Lou
08.S George, Bill
08.B
08.S
08.S
08.S
08.S
08.S
09.S
08.S
08.S
George, Stephen & Donna
Gillitzer, Robert & Sharon
Gillstad, Robert & Gloria
Glauner, Gary & Diana
Goetze, Jim & Gladys
Goldade, Kevin & Christine
Grandt, Todd & Nancy
Graves, Joe & Wendy
Gregory, Quintin & Katherine
Smith
08.S Grell, Roger & Julie
07.S Groehler, Tom &
Catherine Youngsdahl
08.S Groess, Charles & Delores
08.S Grossman, Karin
08.S Gulden, Fred & Joyce
08.S Guthmiller, Ed & Charlotte
08.S Hagfors, Gordon & Kathleen
08.S Haley, David & Susan
07.S Haluptzok, Bill & Mary
07.S Hammond, Craig & Renae
08.S Hansen, Harold & Sandra
07.S Hanson, Irvin & Carol
08.S Hanson, Richard
08.S Hanson, Steven & Kathy Lind
08.B Hartz, James
08.S Haugrud, Craig & Susan
08.S Hedman, David & Adrienne
08.S Hegstrand, Tom & Mary
08.S Hellms, William & Mary Ann
07.S Hemmer, Ron & Debra
08.S Henderson, Ray
08.S Hendren, George & Beverly
08.S Hockert, Chris & Evonne
08.S Hoffmann, Jack & Colleen
08.S Horn, Robert & Renee
08.S Hruza, George & Marlene
08.S Husnick, Tony & Melinda
08.S Isadore, Clifford & Betty
08.S Iskierka, Stanley & Jo Ann
09.S Jansen, Jerry & Cathy
HON John Hirsch’s Cambridge Motors,
John & Kim Hirsch
08.S Johnson, Mark & Carol
08.S Johnson, Marvin & Jean
09.S Johnson, Ray & Heide
08.S Johnson, Warren & Joy
08.S Jones, Winnie
08.S Judd, Stephen & Marilyn
08.S Jurchisin, Bill & Anita
08.S Kachina, Geneva & Larry
07.S Kenneally, Mike & Wendy
09.S Kieper, William & Mae
08.S Kittleson, Bonnie
08.S Kjornes, Paul & Mary
08.S Klose, Lowell & Marilyn
08.S Knapp, David & Carol
08.S Knapp, Greg & Darlene
08.S Knight, Steve & Michelle
08.S Knoss, Ken & Bernie
08.S Knudson, DeLon
08.S Knutson, Carl & Pat
09.S Koch, Margaret & Teri
08.S Koroschetz, Kurt & Trudy
08.S Kowitz, Becky
09.S Krein, Robert & Germaine
08.S Kuntz, Chris & Marilyn
07.W Lake Restoration
Kevin Kretsch
08.S Laase, David & Jean
08.S Lamb, Mark & Nanette
08.S Langer, Tom & Ruth
08.S Langevin, Jim & Jo
08.S Langford, John & Inara
08.S Langreck, Francis & Maria
08.S Langston, Audrey
07.S Larson, David & Betty
08.S Larson, Jeff & Dorothy
08.S Larson, Steve & Colleen
07.S Lasse, Dave & Jean
07.S LaTourelle, Larry & Linda
08.S Lawrence, Richard & Sandra
08.S Lee, Frank & Sheila
07.S Legato, Rick & Betty
08.S Lehn, Raymond & Linda
09.S Leier, Helen
08.S Lenzmeier, Gary & Marie
08.S Lillis, Clare & Kathy
08.S Lindgren, Eugene & Jeri
08.S Lindholm, Paul & Lynn
07.S Lindstrom, Lester
09.S Lindstrom, Roger
07.S Lindstrom, Scott & Lori
08.S Lindstrom, Virgil & Karen
09.S Lindstrom, Vivian
08.S Lindstrom, Wayne & Holly
08.S
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Luebeck, Lowell & Denise
Lundy, Ron & Lindy
Lunseth, John & Mary Ann
Magnuson, Virgil & Jeane
Maher, Jonn & Jodie
Manders, David & Linda
Mansun, William & Judith
Marholtz, William & Betty Lou
Mason, John & Judy
Matson, Gordon & Phyllis
Mattson, Darrell & Denise
Mattson, Pat & JeanAnn
McAfee, Dale & Darlene
McCall, Craig & Margie
McCall, Duane & Sandy
McCormack, Bob & Linda
McKenzie, Tom & Deloris
McLane, Timothy & Lorene
Means, Dan & Sue
Meath, Terry
Mechels, Roger & Irma
Mell Construction,
Scott & Deb Mell
Meyers, Robert & Becky
Michog, Myra
Millard, Ray & Delores
Miller, Shirley Ann
Miller, Tony & Patsy
Miller, Roger & Diane
Miner, David & Linda
Mitchell, Frank & Joseph
Mold, Brian & Debra
Moreau, Brian & Bernice
Moulton, Jerry & Nancy
Muellner, Jr., Thomas & Teresa
Muellner, Sr.,Thomas G.
Mulcahy Sr., Gary
Mulnix, Emily A.
Nash, Ken & Kathleen Maloney
Navikas, Joel & Carol
Nawrocki, Roger & Gwen
Nelson, Charles & Angie
Nelson, Conrad & Paulette
Nemec, Tom & Audrey
Neumann, Ralph & Carol
Nichols, Mike & Lou Ann
Niederkorn, Carol
Nielsen, Lynn
Oberg, Tim & Mary Jurgensen
Odegard, Dennis & Linda
Oliver, Jerry & Peg
Olsen, Ken & Patricia
Olson, Darrell & Candyce
Olson, Loring & Anne
Olson, Ruth
Olson, Scott & Laurel Kipp
Oney, Patricia & John
Opatz, Ken & Sheila
Orton, David & Mary
Ostrom, Gary & Dana
Palmer, John B.
Pariseau, Jerry & Carol
Partridge, Mr. Carroll
Patterson, Lori & Linda
Paul, Marc & Holly
Peck, Dennis
Peltier, Ron & Judie
Perkins, Roy & Jane
Perreault, Laura
Perreault, Randy & Julie
Peters, William & Mildred
Peterson, Gregory R.
Peterson, John & Shirley
Petschl, Albert & Mary Louise
Peyla, Dave & Lynne Hanniford
Phillips, Edward & Barbara
Picha, Bill & Patti
Pieper, Wendell & Ruth
Plastech Corporation,
Dennis Frandsen
Prickett, David & Amy
Procter, Jim & Deborah
Pung, Joe & Vicki
Randall, Terrance & Lorna
Reilly, Gary & Debra
Reilly, Kevin & Wendy
Reilly, Mike & Connie
Remitz, Steve & Judy
Richards, Tom & Terri
Riemenschneider, Richard
Ringer, Arlen & Robin
Risk, Ted & Cathy
Roberts, Jim & Verna
Robertson, Virginia
Robinson, Mike
Rodrigue, Robert & Catherine
07.S
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Ronning, Ritchie
Rose, David & Cindy
Rue, David & Katherine
Rush Lake Resort
Rush Point Store
Rushmore Campground,
Dennis & Carolyn Leininger
Ryberg, Kenn & Katie
Saari, Mark & Deanne
Sayre, Stanley & Marlene
Schalo, Richard & Carrie
Schechter, Herb & Marta
Scheele, Tim & Corinne
Schellbach, Jerry
Schindeldecker, John & Marlene
Schmidt, Rusty & Connie
Schmitz, Roger & Margaret
Schneider, Richard & Elaine
Schneider, Steve & LaVonne
Schreiner, Corbin & MaryJo
Schroeder, Robert & Evangeline
Schroepfer, Ted & Karen
Schwarten, Steve & Susan
Scofield, Darold & Jane
Scofield, Dwayne & Angela
Sedler, Lowell & Ellie
Seidel, Stan & Kathy
Semler, Al & Beryl
Shannon, Austin & Rhonda
Shaw, Robert & Rita
Shevcheck, Cathy
Shoquist, Ron & Gerry
Silcher, Brent
Slavik, David & Kelli
Solorz, Thomas & Shirley
Solway, Scott & Stephanie
Sorenson, Robert & Grace
Sornsen, Gerald & Mary
South Bay RV Park
Spangler, Everett
Sparrow, Dan & Kim
Spindler, Al & Katherine
Splett, Philip & Patricia
Stambaugh, Randy & Jane
Stangret, Kevin & Lanaya
Steeves, Larry & Joan
Stenmo, Ralph & Pat
Stivland, Rodney
Storck, Richard & Kelli
Stottler, Brian & Julie
Stream, Glenn & Clarice
Streetar, Tim & Jodi
Studt, Eugene & Lucille
Sullivan, James & Janice
Sutter, Floyd & Donna
Sybrant, Kevin & Maureen
Tessman, Steven & Nadine
Thell, Charles & Marlys
Thompson, Gerald & Ellen
Torgerson, Paul & Sandra
Tran, Tin & Jennifer
Trog, Jeff & Cathy
Trudeau, David & Patricia Alger
Truskolaski, Ed & Jacki
Tschida, Gregory & Sandra
Tubbs, Paul & Cyndy
Veal, Sandra
Wallace, Scott & Tina
Wallskog, Wayne & Joan
Walsh, William & Janice
Webb, Jerry & Kim
Webber, Frances
Weber, Donald
Weber, William
Wegleitner, Joe & Lil
Wegleitner, Jr., Joe & Marcia
Weibeler, Barbara
Weiden, Gary & Livonia
Weinreich, William & Helga
Wende, Jeff & Leandra
Wettengel, Cheryl
Wheeler, Greg & Julie
Widell, Gary & Jeanette
Wille, Eric & Jan
Wilsey, Grant & Brenda
Wood, Dennis & Sandy
Wurst, George & Arlette
Yanta, James & Susan
Zajac, Tom & Elise
GOT EMAIL?
Attention RLIA Members: We are now set up to
offer you the option of receiving Meeting Reminder
post cards electronically! To “opt in” send an email,
from the address you want to receive notices at, to
secretary@rlia.org with the words “email notices
only” int he Subject line. Grace will remove your
name from the postal service mailing database
and add your email address to our new electronic
database. You will then receive the post card and
any other special notices as they arise by email
only. At this time we will continue to mail the Rush
Report to all RLIA members, but don’t forget
you can always download current and past Rush
Reports to read online or print at www.rlia.org.
FY 08/09 Proposed
Budgets Mailing
BALLOT RESULTS
346 envelopes containing a letter, proposed budgets,
ballot/questionnaire and a dues renewal form (for
those members only whose 08 dues had not been paid),
were mailed to RLIA members on May 14, 2008. 172
Ballot envelopes were returned; 50% participation.
Of those, 34 were disqualified because there was no
return address on the envelope, which was required in
order to check membership status before separating
the anonymous ballot from the envelope, and 7 were
disqualified because they arrived after the deadline.
Therefore, a total of 131 envelopes qualified for the
count. Both Budgets for the Fiscal Year July 1, 2008 to
June 30, 2009 were approved by majority votes:
Gambling Fund Budget Results:
204 approved [98%]. 4 did not approve [2%].
General Fund Budget Results:
203 approved [97%]. 7 did not approve [3%]).
Note: Each paid membership for a couple, family,
business or organization is entitled to 2 votes, which
explains the difference between the 131 qualified
envelopes and the number of votes for each Fund.
QUESTIONNAIRE RESPONSES
157 Questionnaires were received with the Ballots.
Note: not every question was answered on each
questionnaire.
The responses to the 3 questions are:
Would you prefer a different day and/or time for the
meeting?
146 responses:
No, leave as is ..........................126 [86%]
3rd Sat but change time to:
9:00 A.M ........................................... 6
9:30 A.M ........................................... 2
10:00 A.M ......................................... 4
1:00 P.M ............................................ 1
Later in the A.M ............................... 1
3rd Fri of month at:
7:00 P.M ............................................ 3
Another day/time:
Sun @ 6:00 P.M ................................. 1
Wed @ 9:00 A.M ............................... 1
Mon-Thu @ 6:00 P.M ....................... 1
Would you like the RLIA to hold an annual meeting?
124 responses. YES: 73 [59%] NO: 51 [41%]
IF YES, would you participate in a potluck after
the meeting?
YES: 39 NO: 13
IF YES, would you be willing to pay $5 for a meal?
YES: 48 NO: 10
Would you be willing to pay increased dues in the
amount of:
$25.00 132 responses. YES: 99 [75%] NO: 33 [25%]
$30.00 81 responses. YES: 37 [46%] NO: 44 [54%]
Page 12
Rush Report
Summer 2008
“Huntin’ for Hogs”
by Junior Reporter Drew Reilly, age 13, Stanchfield
It was a beautiful day. The sun
bounced brilliant yellow rays off
the rippling azure waters beneath.
Ryan Reilly slowly paddled the
shores of Little Lake Bay with
his cousin Cody and friend Andy
Elsworth.
The pontoon they were in
looked more like a 200 square foot
deer stand than a boat, if it weren’t
for the fact that it was floating
and pulling a small fishing boat
behind it. All three of the crew had
their bows out and were searching the waters eagerly with
polarized sunglasses.
Now, I’m sure you have a few questions. To answer the
first, yes, they are all completely sane. And the second, no,
there is not an underwater species whitetail. What these three
adventurers were after was a little smaller and scalier than a
deer. Their minds were all set on one thing, carp.
There was a sudden swish in the water. Cody caught sight
of the carp out of the corner of his eye and immediately
loosed off an arrow missing it by inches. Unfortunately for
Cody he hadn’t tied his arrow on securely and it disappeared
into the depths along with the fish.
The next hour passed slowly but Andy was rewarded with
a quick sighting of a small carp. The carp was to fast and
the arrow just kept sailing, and sailing. As it turns out Andy
didn’t have his arrow on straight either.
Two down, one to go. The carp were winning. Ryan
adjusted the old recurve bow in his hands as he stood in the
bow, watching carefully Andy helped him look while Cody
steered. Then, when they were nearly ready to turn back,
a silent bulky shape loomed up out of the waters. Ryan
noiselessly drew the heavy arrow back along his knuckles
taking aim slightly below the beast’s underbelly to allow for
light refraction. His heart pounded in his ears as he let the
arrow fly in a blur of string and flights.
With a whizz and a splash the water immediately clouded.
However Ryan had no need to wait for it to clear for an
answer as the string immediately began to rattle off his spool
at an alarming rate. Grabbing hold of it he began to “reel”
the fish in, hand over hand.
As he landed it in the boat he realized that this was
the largest carp he had ever shot. Straining the scales at a
whopping 30 lbs, this was not a day he was likely to forget!
As odd as it seems, bowfishing is actually not that rare of
a sport. Bowfishing is popular in many parts of the U.S.A
fall of no matter what angle you are shooting from.
Not only is this an enthralling sport, blending together
two gripping activities, but it is also good for the lake. In
the late 1800s common carp were introduced all over the
country by the government as a food source. By the year
1900 everyone had realized how bad of an idea this was and
were already trying to stem the spread of them. Carp grew
so rapidly that by their second year most were too large for
predatory populations to control.
You may think what can a few carp hurt? Carp cause
heavy damage to the lake ecosystem by churning up the
sediment and weed beds. This causes murkier waters and
supplies otherwise dormant nutrients to algae causing
significantly heightened algae growth. By tearing up
submerged vegetation they destroy game fish habitats thus
resulting in lower game fish populations. The more carp, the
less game fish and the murkier the water.
So, if you are seeking out a fun summer sport and you
have an old bow lying around, head out on the lake and do
your part in controlling the spread of this invasive fish one
carp at a time. And don’t forget to have a good time while
you’re at it!
Good luck bowfishing!
Junior Reporter and fellow fisherman,
Drew Reilly
RYAN REILLY with his 30 lb. trophy.
and most of Eastern Europe. There are many different
methods of bow hunting. When Ryan and his friends hunt
for carp their routine is to have one person in the bow ready
to shoot; one person in the middle scouting and in case of a
miss, backing up the person in the bow; and one person in
the back steering.
There are a few essential pieces of equipment in
bowfishing. These include heavy string, {at least 50 lb test,} a
bowfishing reel, special arrows made usually from fiberglass
with an expanding end on the tip, and of course a bow. A
few more items that might come useful in bowfishing but are
not necessarily crucial are; polarized sunglass, to help sot the
fish on a high glare sunny day; and a whisker biscuit, a small
ring that fits to your bow insuring that your arrow does not
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Summer 2008
Rush Report
Rush Lake Homesteaders of the 1800s
1857
John Jarchow came to Rush City, from Arkansas, and bought the land of a Mr. Mansfield, where the cemetery was
located near Rush Lake. He left to serve in the war from 1862-1865. In 1867 he married Mary Matfield in Minneapolis. A
year later he returned to his land at Rush Lake, where he built a home and resided until 1881 when he sold out and moved to
Harris. His brother, Joachim Jarchow, was a twenty-year resident of Rush Lake prior to moving to San Gabriel, CA.
1858
John Mathias Breit, born in Wurtenburg, Germany in 1829, emigrated to America at the age of 23, taking passage on
the sailing vessel the Mayflower. It was a 62-day voyage costing about $80. Breit, a born and bred farmer, worked in various
places from 1852-1858, but with exception of a few months on the government survey, always on a farm. He came to MN
in 1856 and stopped at Brownsville, where he married his wife, Rosa Duerwaster. In 1858 they came to Rusheba and took a
homestead of 160 acres on Rush Lake. The stubborn wilderness was turned into broad acres of fields and groves until the
estate was one that compared favorably with the homes of the nobility in the country where Breit first learned the trade of
farming. The location on Rush Lake was picturesque and beautiful. The house sat amid a grove of elms, interspersed with
plum, apple and cherry trees. They had 12 children, all of whom were brought up to be respected and honorable men and
women; Louisa, Mary, John, Joseph, Charley, Alexander, Katie, Fred, George, Willie, Frank and Rudolph. In 1903-04 it was
written that, at the age of 74, Breit owned 500 acres of excellent land, was still in active life, and believed in the old adage “it
is better to wear out than to rust out”.
1861
RLIA member James Hartz is a 5th generation Rush Lake resident; his ancestors homesteaded in 1861.
1867
Montreville Deming took a homestead at Rush Lake. He was born in Niagara County, NY, on October 12, 1827 and was
of old Yankee stock; his family was from Boston and his grandfather was one of the prominent movers in converting Boston
harbor into a mammoth teapot! Montreville married Phoebe E. Brown in 1849. They began life in NY and moved to IN a
few years later where Deming, with his brother, raised corn and hogs. It was a fairly prosperous business until the hog cholera
wiped them out in large numbers. They then moved to MN, arriving in Sunrise in the fall of 1857. There he purchased 40
acres of land and was soon in flourishing circumstances. In 1867 he sold out and took the first homestead entered west of
Rush Lake. His claim was located in pine timber country. Deming cut about 500,000 feet of pine saw logs from his land
and drove them down Rush Creek to market. Horticulture, specifically fruit raising, was both a pastime and science for
Deming. He spent $16 on young fruit trees and started what was the only orchard in that locality for many years. He grew
plums, apples, cherries, raspberries, strawberries and 8 or 9 varieties of grapes. For years and years the Chisago County Fair
exhibited his displays of fruits, which proved conclusively that they could be successfully raised in MN. The Demings had
eleven children; Frank, Milton, Serepta, William, Maud, May, Andrew, Edith, Guy, and twins Minnie and Martha. Deming
gave his children good educational advantages and they were honored and respected by all who knew them.
1868
Caspar Scheele came to Rusheba. Caspar was born in Segeberg, Germany, in the year 1837. He was 30 years old and just
married when, in 1867, he decided to make his home in America. They arrived at Clinton, Iowa where Caspar worked as an
upholsterer. His wife, Marguerita Sommer, was a sister of Rush City’s esteemed citizen John F. Sommer. She died suddenly
after only eight months of wedded life. Scheele came to Rusheba in 1868 and took a homestead of 80 acres on the shore of
Rush Lake. In 1873 he married Augusta Gutzgow, and to this union six children were born. Caspar showed wisdom and
keen foresight in the selection of a site for a home. To quote the eloquent and poetic words of an unknown author, in an
article printed in the Rush City Post in 1903-04, “The broad expanse of lake that bordered his farm was worth thousands
for utility and inestimable amounts for beauty and pleasure. His broad fertile fields, in gentle slopes, from the highest point,
descends to where the land and water line almost imperceptibly mingles, and the same breeze that ripples the water into
sparkling agitation passes on over the growing grain, bending it into waves of emerald green, or golden undulations of
approaching harvest. Then the residence, embowered in stately trees, where sunshine and shadow are constantly shifting in
kaleidoscopic scenes of rural beauty, present to the eye a vision of inviting loveliness. The barns, stables, and sheds, all neatly
kept, bespeak for the lowing herds the contentment which is daily coined into cash from the generous yield”. Also written,
“Mr. Scheele has about 300 acres in his home farm, and a stock of thirty cows, together with horses, hogs, and young stock,
sufficient for a well furnished farm. Having turned over his business to his three competent boys, he can now sit in his easy
chair, on the veranda of his spacious home, and enjoy the contentment and comfort of independence from care. He is a
pleasant conversationalist, agreeable and urbane in manner, and entertainer that one loves to meet. Caspar Scheele’s place
will always be noted as one of the famous beauty spots on earth”. At the lakeside, in front of the grounds, was the steamboat
wharf where a supply of nice row-boats was kept, always in excellent condition for the accommodation of guests. There was
no place like Caspar’s for an enjoyable outing.
1870
Magnus Challeen emigrated to the US from Dalsland, Sweden in 1869. Church records clearly stated Magnus had a
weakness for the mistake of adultery and had departed for “N. Amerika” because he had a child (illegitimate) with their
household “piga” (maid-servant). She was Maria Elizabeth Forsdahl, stepdaughter of Magnus’ aunt, Kerstin Ahlsdotter.
Elizabeth (the name she went by) came to live and work in the household around 1865 and the arrangement apparently
nurtured a romance (that eventually led to marriage). It is not known if Magnus was aware, when he left his home in Sweden
on April 9, 1869 at age 21, that his romance with Elizabeth had resulted in her becoming pregnant, but seven and one-half
months later, on November 24, 1869, she gave birth to a son, Johan Gustaf. The baby lived only about six months. Magnus
arrived in the US in 1869 and first resided in Chicago. One year later, in 1870, he left there with his half-brother and came to
Rush Point and settled on the shores of Rush Lake. There he began clearing land for a farm. He lived with his half-brother
Andrew (the 1880 census lists Magnus as a border living with Andrew and his family) until he completed his own home,
a simple log cabin on his property directly west of Andrew’s. In 1881, after 12 years of waiting, Maria Elizabeth Forsdahl
arrived and she and Magnus were married on June 4, 1881 at Rush Point. The marriage resulted in 6 children; Charles,
John, Albert, Frank, George, and Lydia. Over the years, additions were made to the log cabin resulting in a large two-story
farmhouse with nine rooms. As his sons and daughter grew up, they helped Magnus out and the farm prospered.
Jumping ahead to about 1920, Magnus’ sons Frank J. and Charles W.
started Lakeview Resort. Lakeview was situated on West Rush Lake about 2 A Poem by Alfred Pearson
miles north of the Rush Point Store on the Magnus and Elizabeth Challeen Dedicated to:
farm. Frank had just returned from WWI. The brothers built their own Charles W. Challeen
flat bottom boats to rent out to fisherman, both locally and from all over;
Minneapolis, St. Paul, and from other states once the resort became known, In the twilight of a perfect day,
as it was a good fishing lake having walleye, pike, perch, crappies, sunfish, I listened for a voice rebounding
bass and giant sturgeon. There were two tribes of Indians living on the Over rippling waters in the bay.
shore across the lake and one on the south end of Magnus’ land (this story But silence reigned, no more sounding
being told to their children and grand-children). The Indians called the lake Of the voice we loved so well
Never surly, always cheerful
“Wequagoma” meaning “Lake of Many Bays”. Five cottages were built to He would let you know where fishes dwell.
rent out, all equipped with beds, stoves, lamps and cupboards. One cottage Always happy to give an earful of advice
was built of the lumber in the old Vasa Hall at Rush Point (it was bought On piscatorial line
and torn down by the Bros.). A refreshment stand was built on the lakeshore. I am sure those still living on nearby
Locals as well as cottage folks patronized Lakeview, especially Sat. and Sun. hills and trailing vine
when softball and horseshoe games were played. Swimming was enjoyed off Will miss you when the sun goes down.
a dock or where there was a sandy beach. At one time there was a bathhouse In the ripples of this water,
We still hear your voice again
on the lakeshore where those who came for a day of picnicking could change And hear your laughter
clothing. A used launch was bought from someone in Minneapolis; it seated In a course and strong refrain
20 people and was an attraction in the early years as Frank would often take On the hills of Rush Lake shore,
folks for a ride on the lake. Many of the cottage folk came back year after Where the Chippewa tribe once teamed
year until they eventually wanted to buy the lot they stayed on, either building Around their wigwams of Indian lore.
their own cottage or keeping the one they had been renting. There was no May you rest in a celestial fishing ground
Where the hills are always green
electricity until 1950. Kerosene lamps, Aladdin gas lamps and cooking stoves Where the landscape never turns brown
were used. Drinking water was either carried from springs along the lakeshore And rest in a new life serene.
or from the farmhouse well.
Page 13
Excerpts from Local
Newspapers
Rush Point Columns
Code: BJ=Braham Journal, Braham, MN
RCP = Rush City Post, Rush City, MN
OUGHT TO BE STOPPED
RUSH POINT, July 1 – Mr. Editor: Please grant me a little
space in your valuable paper this week to say that fishing
with nets is becoming the style of catching fish here in the
lake. A number of our leading church members are the worst
pills in the box as to breaking our fishing laws. It would be
well if a game warden would come and look into the matter,
as it is a needed good.
Yours respectfully,
An old Subscriber
-RCP, Jul. 2, 1897
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The fourth of July celebration will be held at M. Challeen’s
grove on the northwest shore of Rush Lake. Orators will
be Rev. Olson of Rock Island, Ill. and Rev. Bergin of
Cambridge. All cordially invited.
-RCP, Jun. 24, 1898
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Rush Lake is to be improved and made the Mecca of health
and recreation for all who love picturesque scenery and
romantic surroundings for a summer outing. Rush Lake in
the future will teem with gaiety and joy during the summer
months. The location is one of the best in the state for the
reason that the lake is surrounded by wealthy farmers whose
hospitable homes will add much to the social side of the
question. Keep your eye on Rush Lake for it is coming to the
front.
-RCP, Nov. 1905
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
A farmer’s telephone line on the east side of Rush Lake is
now ready for use.
-BJ, Jun. 11, 1909
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The Rush Lake Rural Telephone line is now fully completed.
Hello!
-BJ, Jun. 10, 1910
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
An auto was seen here recently.
-BJ, Jan. 24, 1913
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
A fatal skating accident occurred at Rush Lake when Andrew
Erickson was drowned. He took his skates and went to the
lake at about 6:30 o’clock to enjoy a few hours on the ice. In
about a few minutes loud calls for help were heard. Frank
Challeen was the first to reach the scene where Erickson’s
cap was on the ice next to the hole where he fell through. A
boat with grappling hooks was used to recover the body.
-BJ, Dec. 17, 1915
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
The Vasa picnic at Challeen’s Grove “Lake View” Sunday
drew a big crowd, it being estimated that over 300 autos were
there. A good time was had until the rain came.
-BJ, Jun. 20, 1919
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Rush Lake is a regular Mecca for fisherman these days, most
of them returning with good catches of the finny tribe.
-BJ, Jun. 11, 1920
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
On July 4th, Challeen’s grove and beach at Rush Lake was
the scene of many public and private gatherings.
-BJ, Jul.8, 1921
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
An aeroplane passed along the west edge of Rush Lake
going north.
-BJ, Mar. 18, 1921
Were your ancestors Rush Lake
homesteaders? I would love to hear
from you! Please send your stories,
photos and any other bits of Rush
Lake history to me. I’m also looking
for antique Rush Lake post cards to
publish in an upcoming issue of the
Rush Report. I know how valuable
they are, so if you prefer not to part
with them temporarily, please scan
them (both sides) and email them to
me. All my contact info is on page 2.
I look forward to receiving your Rush
Lake treasures! Kathleen.
Page 14
Rush Report
Osprey Nesting Platforms Going Up, Up, 60 Feet Up!
August 14, 2008 was an eventful day at David &
Carole Cartwright’s as two Osprey nesting platforms were
installed on their land. The Cartwrights first contacted Lori
Stevenson, Wildlife Biologist, US Fish & Wildlife Service
(FWS), in May to get her advice on how to go about the
project. Lori contacted Dave Pauly, our local DNR wildlife
expert, to help site the single platform that David and Carole
intended to install. Pauly visited the property in June and
suggested that the site should be in the north field, the
highest point on the property and also suggested that a
second platform be sited because Osprey will colonize (they
are not territorial). The second pole location chosen is due
south, across Belle Isle Dr. toward the lake.
The US Fish & Wildlife contributed $500 toward the
$1000 total cost of purchasing, constructing and installing
the nesting platforms. Cartwrights purchased two 60-foot
poles from Deutschlander Fencing. The poles were old ones
from ECE that were a little beat up, but good enough to
support a platform which has little weight. The poles cost
$250 delivered. David constructed two platforms, each about
40 inches square, made of 2x6 & 2x4 rot-resistant cedar,
using hardware cloth as a bottom and using wire to install
some branches to the hardware cloth to entice the Ospreys.
East Central Energy was contacted to do the installation.
David spoke with LeRoy Thurn, VP for Operations, David
Curtis, Operations Manager and Billy Ensor, Foreman.
Arrangements were made with ECE to mount the platforms
to the poles, drill the holes and install the poles. ECE charged
$350 and it was worth every penny as each pole weighs close
to 1,000 pounds and Billy, Al and Rick (ECE) did a first
class job installing them.
Pictured in the photos are Lori Stevenson, FWS; Billy
Summer 2008
Ensor, Al and Rick, ECE; David & Carole Cartwright.
One week later: David and Carole reported that so far
they have seen one Osprey every day (perhaps the same one)
and it usually comes around midday and stays until 2 or 3
P.M., just sitting on the platform or perch and preening.
An excellent web resource for learning about Osprey is
www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Osprey.
html
Editor’s note: Thank you David & Carole for sharing
your project. I invite and encourage all Rush Lake area
residents to share their conservation projects with us. Please
send your completed or upcoming project information to
me (see page 2) so that I can publish the story in the Rush
Report. I’m always looking for your “great catch” photos or
other lake related activities also! Kathleen
A&D Lakeside Services
Making life on the lake a little bit easier
JEFF HERMANN
Insurance Representative
310 W. 4th St.,
P.O. Box 678, Rush City, MN
320-358-3744
Cell 651-558-6849
Fax 320-358-3723
Toll Free 866-664-8954
Website: www.hisins.us
Email: jeffh@hisins.us
Let us make owning a lake home or a cabin a little
easier by taking care of some things that hinder an
enjoyable weekend.
Services include:
• Dock and lift installation and removal
• Dock services and repair
• Lawn care and Yard work
• Shoreline maintenance
• Weed cleaning
• Boat & pontoon transporting
• Weekly Boat service and cleaning
Give us a call anytime!
David LaTourelle 763-238-7874
Alex Reilly
763-286-8154
www.adlakesideservices.com
Summer 2008
Rush Report
FULL REAL ESTATE SERVICES
FROM AN AGENT YOU’VE
GROWN TO TRUST!
Victoria Frieberg
Broker, ABR, CRS
Co-Owner of Rush Point Store and Rush Lake
resident Vicky has 19 years of getting to know
the values and needs of the community. Our daily
fishing report is picked up by websites across the
state. With the new search feature, you can check
listings throughout Minnesota & Wisconsin
or check on local listings:
www.rushpointrealty.com
300 Rush Point Drive, Stanchfield, MN 55080
Offices Above the Rush Point Store
Office 763-689-5343 • Cell 612-369-3746
Lakeshore, Land, Lots, Commercial, Hobby Farms, Townhomes
Page 15
Rush Lake Provides a “Reel” Treat
for Paradise Pride
Paradise Pride Inc., a
Sports Club 4 Special Athletes
(SC4SA), enjoyed a successful
fishing excursion on Rush Lake
this summer. On Thursday,
June 26, 2008 the group of
eight special needs athletes,
accompanied by their coach
L o r i P at t e r s o n , p rog r a m
volunteers Big Al (Stewart),
Jon Lindeman, Jon Sitz and
Rollin Whittaker, Pride Pals
(18 & under volunteers) Kayla
Forcier, Linzy Potter and
Tiffany Whittaker, and a friend
or family member for each
athlete, gathered at Ray’s Guide
Service & Taxidermy, Live Bait
& Tackle on East Rush Lake.
Ray Abrizenski and his wife The eight SC4SA anglers and three Pride Pals displayed
Sandy took the enthusiastic their surprise trophies proudly. Back row (l to r): Pride Pal
group out on two pontoons. Tiffany Whittaker, Samantha Marinan, Alex Patterson,
Coach Lori and the volunteers Daniel Cooper and Justin Gronhoy. Front row: Amandla
assisted Ray and Sandy with Oesterreich, Pride Pal Linzy Potter, Danny Cranson, Pride
baiting hooks and untangling
Pal Kayla Forcier, Shelley Foster and Thomas Yates. Photo
lines while each fisherman’s
submitted
friend or relative offered support
and encouragement. The sunfish
hotspot and ideal weather yielded plenty of sunfish and smiles for all the athletes.
The fun and excitement of the outing continued when the group returned to Ray’s for
pizza, pop, cookies and entertainment. Coach Lori Patterson surprised the group with awards
and trophies; she presented a medal to each volunteer and a big, gleaming trophy with a fish
mounted on top to each of the proud angler athletes and Pride Pals.
Patterson, a mother of two special needs sons, and Linda Lindeman, a Rush City special
education teacher, founded Paradise Pride, Inc. in January 2007. Their Mission: To provide
a safe and welcoming environment for special needs athletes over the age of 8 to develop the
confidence and physical, social, and emotional skills of individual athletes by engaging in team
sports activities such as soccer, basketball, bowling, track and field and the like in the central
Minnesota, regardless of race, creed, color, ethnic heritage or socio-economic background.
Their Vision: To continue providing a safe and welcoming environment for special needs
athletes over the age of 8. We will continue our efforts to fill special lives in central Minnesota
with a steady stream of opportunities and activities that create a sense of belonging and
acknowledgement for each individual athlete. We will continue our efforts to become involved
in our communities by volunteering to participate in and also organizing events and activities
that create a sense of belonging and acknowledgement for all involved.
For more information about club activities, athlete registrations and volunteer opportunities
visit their website www.paradisepride.org
50155 Clover Trail,
Rush City
320-358-9900
JACKPOT
BINGO
Tuesdays 6 p.m.
HOURS:
WING DING
WEDNESDAYS
$1 BURGER
THURSDAYS
Beer Specials:
Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-Midnight
Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-1 a.m.
HAPPY
HOUR
Sun.-Thurs. 5-6 p.m.
MEAT
RAFFLE
Fridays 6:30 p.m.
Mexican Mondays:
Seasonal Camping • Boat Launch • On & Off Sale Liquor
Full Menu, Inside or Patio Dining • Cozy Fireplace
Life
& Lake AccessDrink
specials,Trail
tacos,
quesadillas
Plowed
• On Snowmobile
• Ice Fishing
• Premium Gas
LitePropane Filled
Kitchen
Open: 11(Inside
a.m.-10
p.m.
Everyday
• Live Entertainment
& Out)
• Special
Events
Tues.: Miller High,
Off-Season Hours:
Miller
Mon.-Thurs.
openHigh
at 4 p.m.Life
Wed.: Busch & Busch Lite
Thurs.: Tap Beer
Broasted Chicken, Burgers, Salads
Page 16
Rush Report
Summer 2008
Provide Wetland Habitat and Reap the Benefits
Over the past several decades
the Rush Lake Improvement
Association (RLIA) has assumed
a leadership role in working with
numerous agencies and other
entities to help improve the health
of the Rush Lake Watershed
(RLW). The RLW, located in
Chisago and Pine counties of
Minnesota, is comprised of approximately 22,500 acres.
Wetlands within the RLW, excluding the two lake basins,
comprise approximately 37% of the total watershed. An
estimated 74% of the original wetland acres within the
Chisago County portion of the watershed have been
completely or partially drained. Surface water quality,
wetland loss and degradation, and soil erosion have
been identified as significant watershed concerns.
Wetlands are very important and provide numerous
environmental benefits:
• They reduce flooding by slowing excess water
runoff during times of runoff from spring snow
melt and/or heavy rains.
• They improve water quality by filtering sediments,
nutrients and toxic substances out of water before
it washes into lakes and rivers.
• They provide habitat for many fish, wildlife
and plants, some of which can only survive in
wetlands.
• They provide opportunities for recreation such as
canoeing, hunting, hiking, fishing, and birding.
• They offer commercial uses like growing wild rice
or cranberries and trapping animals.
• They are important outdoor science and art
classrooms and laboratories.
In 1996, the RLIA began working with the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and MN Department of
Natural Resources (MNDNR) on wetland restorations
to restore previously drained wetland habitat on private
land within the RLW. The RLIA contributed $20,000,
which was matched by the USFWS, to do this. In the
fall of 2000, the MNDNR contributed $4,100 that
was matched by the RLIA and USFWS for continuing
wetland restoration work within the RLW. In 2001,
the MNDNR and RLIA each contributed $10,000 for
additional private lands conservation work around
Rush Lake. Since 1996, a total of 41 wetlands (143
acres) have been restored on 15 private properties by the
USFWS Minnesota Private Lands Office, through the
Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. These wetland
restoration activities have provided additional habitat to
be used by migratory and breeding waterfowl and other
wildlife, have reduced sediment and nutrient runoff
from entering Rush Lake, and contribute to floodattenuation benefits. It is recognized that none of these
wetland restoration projects could have been completed
without the willingness, cooperation and enthusiasm of
the private landowners involved.
This conservation work within the RLW has
been conducted with the involvement of numerous
other partners including the Chisago Soil and Water
Conservation District (SWCD), USDA, Mille Lacs
Band of Ojibwe and several private organizations
such as Minnesota Waterfowl Association, Pheasants
Forever and Muskies, Inc. Of utmost importance is
the involvement and education of the people who live
within the RLW. Essentially, the entire watershed is
in private ownership so the success or failure of any
conservation effort depends upon the support of the
landowners.
The USFWS Minnesota Private Lands Office
in Waite Park is very interested in assisting any
landowners within the RLW with wetland restoration
on their property. The USFWS will work with the
RLIA, MNDNR and the SWCD to help defray costs
to the landowner for wetland restoration work, with
potentially 90-100% of the costs paid for by these
agencies. Wetlands can be restored by placing a dike
near the pool area around certain drainages or by
plugging a ditch that directly drains the wetland. By
restoring some of these wetlands, we can once again
utilize the benefits (as outlined above) for the health
and quality of the RLW and the people who live there.
If you are interested in wetland restoration
opportunities on your property through the Partners for
Fish and Wildlife Program, please call Lori Stevenson
at the USFWS Minnesota Private Lands Office in Waite
Park, MN, at 1-800-814-6290 or at 320-253-4682.
Healthy Forests Improve Water Quality
P ro m o t i n g yo u r fo re s t ’s
health helps to improve water
quality. Forests help to keep the
watershed clean by sequestering
carbon and airborne toxins that
would eventually become acid
rain. Forests have a filtering
effect on the soil that promotes infiltration which
helps to reduce runoff of chemicals and fertilizers,
reducing the loss of soil from erosion
As you look at the land use and overall land types
in the Rush Lake watershed, it is easy to see we have
greatly changed the natural vegetative cover over
the past 100 years. And when we look at the lake,
we can see the water quality has declined. How we
use and what we put on the land within a watershed
has a large impact on what the water quality is for
that watershed. A healthy tree can improve water
quality, that is why it important to manage your
forest to be a healthy one.
Your first step in a healthy forest will be to decide
what your goals are. Are you going to manage your
woodland for timber production, wildlife, aesthetics,
recreation, or a combination of these objectives?
Then you will want to choose to the best species for
the purpose and site. This is done by determining
the soil type and sun light available.
A forester can assist you by helping to determine
what types of trees you already have and what
health they are in. The forester will work with you,
writing a woodland stewardship plan for a healthy
forest while complimenting your goals and fitting it
to your objectives.
Healthy forest management practices will help the
watershed and eventually the lakes or streams within
them. This will not only improve land resources but
also water resources such as swimming, fishing and
drinking water.
Currently there is a forestry pilot project in the
area covering the four adjacent townships within
Chisago, Pine, Kanabec, and Isanti counties. These
townships include, Nessel, Royalton, Grass Lake
and Stanchfield. The project was started by the
East Central Landscape Committee (ECLC). The
purpose and goal of the project is to promote and
improve forestry in the landscape and reforestation
of the landscape close to its original forested cover.
There may be cost-share available for woodland
stewardship. To contact a woodland stewardship
plan writer contact the Chisago Soil & Water
Conservation District (651)-674-2333 or MN DNR
(763)-689-7100.
Jason Rehn, District Technician, Chisago SWCD
©ECM Publishers, Inc. 2008 - Published by ECM Publishers, Inc., Cambridge, MN