Reaching for an upside

November Clip Winners

2012-02-10T14:38:00.000-05:00

First Place General News:

James Hess of West Bend adjusts his umbrella as a bus creates some slush as Hess walks home from work at Applebees in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. " People told me it was snowing and I said I can handle some small flurries, it's better than rain. Then I looked out the window and said oh geez," said Hess. The expected snow fall ranged from one to two inches.

Second Place General News:

Calvin Tomomitsu of Whitewater has a tear drop from his face as he hugs his two children, Zach, 7, and Nicole, 11, after returning from Iraq at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.

Second Place Portrait:

"Every play offers a new opportunity," said West Bend West senior Meghan Conley about why she loves playing volleyball. Conley has been playing since she was in the fifth grade. Conley plans on plying in college and then proceeding to medical school.

December 2011 Clip Winners

2012-02-08T23:35:00.001-05:00

First Place General News:

Carol Hugan of West Bend displays her sign while attempting to get patrons to sign a petition to recall Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker on Paradise Dr. in West Bend on Friday afternoon. " I have had two people yell ' what are you, too stupid to get out of the rain,' I just tell them thank you," said Hugan.

First Place Portrait:

"Definitely, beating Hartford 1-0 this year." said Slinger High School senior Reed Luengen about one of the higher points from this past season. Luengen and his teammates beat Stevens Point this past season for the Regional Championship. Luengen is considering four schools to play soccer at next year in the fall.

Third Place Portrait:

"The catch from Sam (Olla) against Pewaukee or the touchdown run in overtime to beat Pewaukee," said Kewaskum High School senior running back Eric Perkins about some of the highlights from this past season. Perkins was named the Offensive Player of the Year. This is the second consecutive year Perkins has won the award.

First Place Sports: (I got lucky on this one. I do not think this is worth first place.)

The Germantown High School bench erupts after watching Mike Glaser pin Kenosha Tremper's Corey Cross in the 285-pound match at Hartford Union High School on Saturday afternoon. Germantown lost the match 58-24.

Second Place Illustration:

Daily News Managing Editor Jill Badzinski smiles while walking to her scare post at the Hubertus House of Horrors in Hubertus on Friday night. Badzinski acted as a evil doctor's assistant in surgery. The House of Horrors will be open the remaining Friday and Saturdays in October.

Photo of the Day

2012-02-04T16:54:00.003-05:00

I love this for two reasons:
1) Coaches face.
2) Girls face a chair over.

Thats wrestling.

Hartford Union coach Joe Spudich gives out instructions to Kullen Winkle in the 195-pound match during the Wisconsin Little Ten Championship in West Bend on Saturday afternoon.

Photo of the Day

2012-02-02T23:07:00.000-05:00

West Bend East senior Emily Vetter jumps into the air during practice in West Bend East High School on Thursday night. Both West Bend East and West will be competing at the state competition in La Crosse on Saturday.

2011

2012-02-02T17:31:00.002-05:00

Need to cut three photos. Which three would you cut?

Star Wars Invasion

2012-01-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

Leland Rusch, 5, of Campbellsport ducks into his R2-D2 costume after getting his picture taken with Han Solo during the Star Wars Invasion at the West Bend Library in West Bend on Saturday morning. The day feature Star War movies and appearances by members of the Wisconsin Garrison the 501st Legion.

1000 Points

2012-01-27T22:54:00.001-05:00

West Bend West's Meghan Conley (20) takes a shot for her 1000 career points against West Bend East in West Bend on Friday night. Conley is the first to women to score 1000 career points for West Bend West high School. Conley finished with 18 points as West went onto win 41-37.

Library Wedding

2012-01-26T16:02:00.001-05:00

Sue Wertis-Peterson of West Bend walks across the West Bend Library with her sister, Barb Deedman as she prepares to marry her fiancee, Chris Kappatsch in West Bend on Thursday afternoon. Sue and Chris decided on getting married at the Library due to their love of literature and library. It took over a year for Chris to gain all the correct paperwork, medical exams and visas to travel from Germany to get married.

Sue Kappatsch of West Bend shares a first kiss with her husband, Chris Kappatsch, as the two are married in the tower room of the West Bend Library in West Bend on Thursday afternoon. Sue and Chris decided on getting married at the Library due to their love of literature. It took over a year for Chris to gain all the correct paperwork, medical exams and visas to travel from Germany to get married.

Sue Wertis-Peterson walks into the West Bend Library with her sister Barb Deedman as her fiancee, Chris Kappatsch, waits a top of the second floor in West Bend on Thursday afternoon. Sue and Chris decided on getting married at the Library due to their love of literature and the library. It took over a year for Chris to gain all the correct paperwork, medical exams and visas to travel from Germany to get married.

The wedding cake in the shape of the "As Time Goes By" book by Michael Walsh for Chris and Sue Kappatsch's wedding at the West Bend Library in West Bend on Thursday afternoon. Sue and Chris decided on getting married at the Library due to their love of literature and the library. It took over a year for Chris to gain all the correct paperwork, medical exams and visas to travel from Germany to get married.

70 Year Anniversary

2012-01-24T17:39:00.000-05:00

Joe and Maybelle Weiss of West Bend will be celebrating their 70th year anniversary on January 26. The two were married in 1942. " He had his friend ask me out in High School," said Maybelle.

Lisa Husar; Wildlife Photographer

2012-01-20T17:18:00.002-05:00

A story we are doing on Kodak this week. It was a pleasure shooting with her.

Wildlife photographer Lisa Husar is licked by her Golden Retriever, Nita, 3, while photographing her other Golden Retriever, Bear, 7, on Friday afternoon. Husar began photography shooting with film in 1993. This past week, Kodak filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. " Photography was Kodak. It's still sad, its like the passing of an icon," said Husar.

Girls Basketball in a Nutshell

2012-01-17T22:52:00.001-05:00

Kewaskum's Mikkin Abfall (33) attempts to grab a rebound against West Bend West in West Bend on Tuesday night. West went onto win 50-39.

SWE Wrestling; Winter Rumble

2012-01-15T13:01:00.001-05:00

West Bend Daily News reporter Larry Hanson attempts to get the fans more excited during the Supreme Wrestling Entertainment's Winter Rumble at the Rubicon Ranch in Rubicon on Saturday night. The SWE will be back at the Rubicon Ranch in February.

West Bend Daily News reporter Larry Hanson celebrates after eliminating Sexy KC, played by Chris Hansen of West Bend, during the Supreme Wrestling Entertainment's Winter Rumble at the Rubicon Ranch in Rubicon on Saturday night. The SWE will be back at the Rubicon Ranch in February.

Noah Tock of West Bend flips Angel Armoni, played by Mike Schuknecht of Milwaukee, during the Supreme Wrestling Entertainment's Winter Rumble at the Rubicon Ranch in Rubicon on Saturday night. The SWE will be back at the Rubicon Ranch in February.

The Difference a Day Makes

2012-01-13T16:23:00.002-05:00

Wednesday:

Thursday:

Just a Regular Wednesday

2012-01-11T17:59:00.000-05:00

Holy Angles sixth grader Ethan Wedemayer reacts after getting his question wrong during the Geography Bee in West Bend on Wednesday afternoon.

The empty seat of Holy Angles sixth grader Kelsey Nowak after she is the first eliminated during the Geography Bee in West Bend on Wednesday afternoon.

Holy Angles seventh grader Alex Pouros reacts after finding out his answer was wrong during the Geography Bee in West Bend on Wednesday afternoon.

Steve Schmidt of Jackson approaches the green on the 18th hole at West Bend Lakes Golf Course in West Bend on Wednesday evening. Temperatures reached into the high 40s on Wednesday. "It's the first time I have ever golfed in January. It is also the best round I have ever golfed in January," joked Schmidt.

Photo of the Day

2012-01-10T23:06:00.000-05:00

Madeline Walz, 9, ducks under her classmates to get a look at the star constellations displayed on the iPad while studying meteorite samples in Mr. Randy Watts science class at David Star Lutheran School in Jackson on Tuesday afternoon. The class looked over samples, designed their own moon rover and watched Apollo 13.

The Dog Days of January

2012-01-07T17:06:00.002-05:00

Shirley Kundinger of Hartford rinses off her car at the Super Wash in West Bend on Saturday afternoon. This past weekend, the temperatures reached into the high 40s compared to last year where they reached 15 degrees.

As the sun melts the ice to a pond, Pete Urbschat and Stu Challoner of Oshkosh finish their round of golf on the 18th green at West Bend Lakes Golf Course in West Bend on Saturday afternoon. This past weekend, the temperatures reached into the high 40s compared to last year where they reached 15 degrees. " This is the earliest in the year, I think, I have ever golfed in Wisconsin," said Urbschat.

Olson House Fire

2012-01-06T18:22:00.003-05:00

Clara Olson, 15, looks in one of the four burnt cars to see if her shoes survived the fire at the Olson house in Trenton on Friday afternoon. More than $6,000 has been raised by the West Bend girls basketball teams to help their teammate, Clara Olson, and her family get back on their feet after the fire in mid December.

Samuel, 13, and Timothy Olson, 10, look over the remains of their burnt home in Trenton on Friday afternoon. More than $6,000 has been raised by the West Bend girls basketball teams to help their teammate, Clara Olson, and her family get back on their feet after the fire in mid December.

Timothy Olson, 10, finds his stuffed Spider Man doll while looking at the remains of the garage with his father, Larry, at their home in Trenton on Friday afternoon. More than $6,000 has been raised by the West Bend girls basketball teams to help their teammate, Clara Olson, and her family get back on their feet after the fire in mid December.

Detroit Lions vs Green Bay Packers

2012-01-01T22:21:00.002-05:00

Probably the best day I could have during a Lions loss:

Recall Scott Walker

2011-12-30T15:39:00.000-05:00

Carol Hugan of West Bend displays her sign while attempting to get patrons to sign a petition to recall Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker on Paradise Dr. in West Bend on Friday afternoon. " I have had two people yell ' what are you, too stupid to get out of the rain,' I just tell them thank you," said Hugan.

Riley Edmundson

2011-12-29T15:14:00.001-05:00

Riley Edmundson, 2, of West Bend plays with his favorite fire truck in his room on Thursday afternoon. Riley is apart of the Washington County Birth to Three program. The program has helped Riley improve his balance and walking.

Kandi O'Neil

2011-12-15T15:42:00.000-05:00

Washington County 4H Director Kandi O'Neil looks over the applications for six youth members for the Haiti 4H Service Project for this June at the Washington County UW-Extension in West Bend on Thursday afternoon. O'Neil has held the position for the past 27 years. In January, O'Neil will be taking the State 4H Associate Program Leader and Volunteer Specialist.

Reed Luengen: Male Soccer Player of the Year

2011-12-14T17:57:00.000-05:00

"Definitely beating Hartford 1-0 this year." said Slinger High School senior Reed Luengen about one of the higher points from this past season. Luengen and his teammates beat Stevens Point this past season for the Regional Championship. Luengen is considering four schools to play soccer at next year in the fall.

Taylor Clyse: Female Runner of the Year

2011-12-13T17:23:00.000-05:00

"Standing on the starting line at state (Championship)," recalled Slinger High School junior Taylor Clyse about one of the higher moments of this past season from Cross Country. Clyse placed fourth in her division at the State Championship race.

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-10T13:50:00.001-05:00

Better make it good.....

Ava Pecore, 7, of Greenville thinks hard about what to ask Santa Claus for Christmas during Breakfast with Santa at West Bend West High School Saturday morning. Proceeds from the event went towards The Gingerbread House.

Photo of the Day

2011-12-08T22:50:00.001-05:00

Hartford Union students dressed for theme night in flannel shirts and jean shorts watch Oconomowoc warm up before the game in Hartford on Thursday evening.

Saturday Morning Sports

2011-12-03T16:18:00.001-05:00

West Bend East's Corrine Springer is put in a hold from Random Lake's Johnny Mudluff in the 106 pound match during the Slinger Invitational in Slinger on Saturday morning.Springer lost the match after getting pinned in the second round.
Hartford Union's Ethan Fleuchaus reacts after seeing his teammates take take the lead during the 4 x 25 relay during the Hartford Union Relays in Hartford on Saturday afternoon. West Bend Co-Op team took second place while Hartford Union took third overall.

Austin Cordell: Defensive Player of the Year

2011-12-02T17:48:00.001-05:00

"I think teams began running away from me. I could hear them say 'Block 39,'" said Hartford Union linebacker Austin Cordell about this past season on defense. This is the second consecutive year Cordell was recognized with the Defensive Player of the Year award.

See last years image as a comparison:

http://john-ehlke.blogspot.com/2010/12/photo-of-day.html

Eric Perkins: Offensive Player of the Year

2011-12-01T23:10:00.001-05:00

" The catch from Sam (Olla) against Pewaukee or the touchdown run in overtime to beat Pewaukee," said Kewaskum High School senior running back Eric Perkins about some of the highlights from this past season. Perkins was named the Offensive Player of the Year. This is the second consecutive year Perkins has won the award.

Here is last years image for comparison:

http://john-ehlke.blogspot.com/2010/12/my-first-few-days.html

Basketball

2011-11-30T00:24:00.001-05:00

Black Friday

2011-11-25T05:33:00.001-05:00

Rosie Degnite of West Bend takes a seat while waiting for a check out lane to open up for the Black Friday sales at Kohls in West Bend Friday morning. Degnite visited two other stores before heading to Kohls Friday morning. Sales across Washington County begun earlier this year with many stores opening up at midnight.

Untitled from John Ehlke on Vimeo.

Thanksgiving at Best Buy

2011-11-24T15:44:00.001-05:00

Steve Robb of Sussex smiles while talking with his brother-in-law Dana Normandin as pumpkin pie is passed around for Thanksgiving dinner outside of Best Buy in Menomonee Falls Thursday afternoon. Robb got in line for the Black Friday sale at Best Buy Wednesday afternoon. The group plans on buying a 42 inch LCD television. Best Buy opens at midnight Friday morning.

Tired of Christmas?

2011-11-23T13:27:00.001-05:00

Al Strelbicki of Burlington takes a small break from shopping while waiting for his wife outside the Holiday Marketplace Craft Fair at the Washington County Fair Park in the Town of Polk Saturday afternoon.

The Last Wisconsin National Guard Unit from Iraq

2011-11-19T12:45:00.001-05:00

Calvin Tomomitsu of Whitewater has a tear drop from his face as he hugs his two children, Zach, 7, and Nicole, 11, after returning from Iraq at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.
Claire Tienor, 11, of Kiel falls into her grandmothers, Gladys, arms as she sees her father, Staff Sergeant Patrick Tienor, walk off the bus at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.
Gary Beekman of Oconto hugs his wife, Cheryl, after getting off the bus at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.
Staff Sergeant Mark Gilson walks to his family's car after returning back to Wisconsin from Iraq at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.
Sergeant Aaron Grudich of Oakfield walks back to the car with his family after returning back from Iraq at the West Bend Armory Saturday morning. 30 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 135th General Aviation Support Battalion returned home from Iraq. After 51 weeks, the last Wisconsin National Guard Unit returned home.

Meghan Conley: Volleyball Player of the Year

2011-11-15T21:57:00.001-05:00

" Every play offers a new opportunity," said West Bend West senior Meghan Conley about why she loves playing volleyball. Conley has been playing since she was in the fifth grade. Conley plans on playing in college and then proceeding to medical school.

Christmas Time in the City

2011-11-12T19:54:00.001-05:00

Hope Dalzin

2011-11-10T19:12:00.001-05:00

"Sometimes I will go to the park and swing and think, I am having a Susie moment or when I get a little angry I say alright calm down Nancy," said Hope Dalzin about two of the 23 personalities that encompass her body and mind. Dalzin and her other personalities created a quilt with each of their names stitched in and a symbol representing each member. A number of Dalzin's personalities were first introduced after different traumas in her life. Dalzin authored the book "The Creation of Hope" chronicling her journey with her other 23 personalities. Dalzin has been in control the past five years. " It is like having a whole family inside of me," said Dalzin.

A quilt with stitching featuring 16 of Hope Dalzin's personalities displayed on the floor of her home in West Bend Thursday afternoon. Dalzin authored the book "The Creation of Hope" chronicling her journey with her 23 other personalities. Dalzin has been in control the past five years.

A pillow created by Hope Dalzin with her original birth name of Beverly stitched on it displayed at her home in West Bend Thursday afternoon. Dalzin authored the book "The Creation of Hope" chronicling her journey with her other 23 personalities. Dalzin gave herself the name Hope after gaining control over the different personalities. Dalzin has been in control the past five years.

Snow Day

2011-11-09T16:18:00.003-05:00

James Hess of West Bend adjusts his umbrella as a bus creates some slush as Hess walks home from work at Applebees in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. " People told me it was snowing and I said I can handle some small flurries, it's better than rain. Then I looked out the window and said oh geez," said Hess. The expected snow fall ranged from one to two inches.

Photo of the Day

2011-11-02T21:52:00.000-04:00

I am 100 % sure I would not like this photo half as much if this guys tie was not so twisted: West Bend Chamber of Commerce Board President Mark Kurziak points at one of his fellow board members while being recognized during the West Bend Chamber of Commerce awards and dinner at the Prairie Center in West Bend Wednesday evening. The night recognized businesses and members of the year as well as a round table discussion.

Photo of the Day

2011-11-01T22:33:00.001-04:00

Members of the West Bend student leaders perform "I Gotta Feeling" during the marching band concert at West Bend High School Tuesday night. The night included performances by the marching band, concert band, drum line and color guard. The night also featured a mob dance by select audience members.

*The purple in the photo is a flag.

Surprise at Work

2011-10-29T16:49:00.001-04:00

Saw these two jokers at work today. Good to have family:

September Clip Winners

2011-10-28T15:25:00.001-04:00

After two months of judging, I am in eighth place.

http://www.wnpaonline.com/graphpaper/2011/10/results-of-september-clip-contest/

Feature: First Place

Babysitiing and School Age Site Director Crissy Steinhaus is hugged and smothered with whip cream as Executive Director Rob Johnson hugs Steinhaus after being pied in the face at the YMCA in West Bend Friday afternoon. The pie to the face of the managers was apart of the Staff Appreciation Day. Steinhaus won the competition to pie the other four remaining managers. Employees voted for Crissy by placing the most money in her marked jar.

General News: Third Place

Portrait: First Place

Silas " Gus" Miller of Barton laughs after looking through Edith Miller Koerble's old photographers during the West Bend High School reunion for the 1944 class at Cedar Ridge in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. " I could not tell the difference between Edith and her twin sister Ethel," said Miller.

Portrait: Second Place

William "Red Beard" Henke of Markesan enjoys his pipe while sitting in his tent with his wife Rose during the Buckskinners encampment at the Woodlawn Park in Hartford Saturday afternoon.

Photo of the Night

2011-10-27T22:41:00.002-04:00

West Bend East's Baylee Gross jumps into the air as the final point is recorded to beat West Bend West in a sectional match in West Bend Thursday night. East won in four matches to advance.

School's out for fall

2011-10-27T17:35:00.000-04:00

Gillian Podwell, 6, throws multiple pumpkin seeds off of her hands as her and her brother, Blake, and sister, Joslynn, gut pumpkins outside their home in West Bend Thursday afternoon. Gillian and Blake both attend McLane Elementary and had the day off from school. The West Bend School District had an extended weekend beginning Thursday.

Matt Resch makes a catch while playing football with Dennis Heikkila, center, and Matthew Thames, left, along Indiana Ave. in West Bend Thursday afternoon. Resch and Thames attend West Bend West High School and Heikkila attends Badger Middle School and all had the day off from school. The West Bend School District had an extended weekend beginning Thursday.
Evhan Cox, 12, laughs as he squeezes into a bike rack to take a seat as Elijah Gaud, 12, watches while two skateboard with Mason Ksioszk of Campbellsport outside of Badger Middle School in West Bend Thursday afternoon. The group of students had the day off from school. The West Bend School District had an extended weekend beginning Thursday.

Halloween Parade

2011-10-25T17:48:00.001-04:00

Oliver Byman, 2, clutches to his mother's leg, Elisha, as the two watch the parade route move from inside to outside of Jackson Elementary for the Halloween Parade Tuesday afternoon. The parade featured over 500 students from Jackson Elementary.

What a Friday

2011-10-21T23:20:00.002-04:00

Someone tried to scare me today:

Roland Cunningham, 2, of Slinger rips off his mask in attempt to scare trick or treaters as he stands outside his parents car for Trunk of Treat outside Slinger Elementary School Friday evening.

Alexa Olson, 12, of Slinger peers out of the mouth of the shark for the Olson's shark mobil for Trunk of Treat outside Slinger Elementary School Friday evening.
Dan Arps of West Bend walks his two kids, Kailyn and Nick along with they two friends down Main St. during Fall Festival in downtown West Bend Friday evening. The night included pumpkin carvings and various events hosted by Radio Disney AM 1640.

Living Word Lutheran's Ben Rennicke (13) drops down to his knees after intercepting Johnson Creek late in the fourth quarter in a playoff game in Slinger Friday night. Living Word won 13-6 after a late fourth quarter drive.

Hope Scholarship

2011-10-19T21:42:00.000-04:00

University of Wisconsin- Washington County student Jessica Laak sits on her couch reflecting about what a traditional day is for her and her family at her home in Jackson Wednesday afternoon. Laak, 39, is entering her second year at the University of Wisconsin-Washington County. The scholarship is meant to benefit non-traditional students.

Photo of the Day

2011-10-18T23:43:00.000-04:00

Hope Scholarship

2011-10-18T21:55:00.001-04:00

"I don't even care if I make one penny doing this. As long as I am happy," said University of Wisconsin- Washington County second year student David Pesci about pursuing musical education after receiving the Hope Scholarship last year. The Hope Scholarship is meant for non-tradiontional students, including Pesci who is 26. Pesci is currently working on the school musical titled "Lucky Stiff."

My Boss the Zombie

2011-10-15T00:03:00.002-04:00

Wisconsin's fall time

2011-10-12T21:57:00.000-04:00

National Chess Day:

Eric Villmow of Hartford smiles after hearing his friends tactics for his next move during National Chess Day at the K Mart in Hartford Saturday morning.

Bingo Night:

Austen Reimer, 11, of Campbellsport licks his chops as he dots I-26 during the Kewaskum Sno-Chief Bingo night at the Kewaskum Annex Building Wednesday night. The total amount given away in prizes reached $1,600 along with many raffle prizes.

Powder Puff

2011-10-05T22:41:00.000-04:00

Photo of the Day

2011-10-05T18:15:00.001-04:00

Ron Leatherwood of Barton looks up at his nine year old Blue and Gold Macaw, Barney, as the two continue their walk along Main St. in downtown West Bend Wednesday afternoon. Leatherwood decided to take Barney out for a walk due to the warm weather. Temperatures are expected to keep in the 70s throughout the week.

Friday Night Football

2011-10-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

Slingers' Dan Sabin stretches out for a ball out of his reach against West Bend East at Slinger High School Friday night. Slinger held onto win 17-14. West Bend Wests' Jimmy Dieck (24) jumps to make a catch in between two Hartford Union defenders at Hartford Union High School Friday night. Hartford Union won the game 21-0. Hartford Unions' Andy Peters (28) celebrates a sack on West Bend West quarterback Cody Chesak at Hartford Union High School Friday night. Hartford Union won the game 21-0. Slingers' Derek Merkes (12) dives to the ground after intercepting West Bend East quarterback Zach Lemke late in the fourth quarter at Slinger High School Friday night. Slinger held onto win 17-14.

Photo of the Day

2011-09-30T15:41:00.000-04:00

YMCA Babysitiing and School Age Site Director Crissy Steinhaus is hugged and smothered with whip cream as Executive Director Rob Johnson hugs Steinhaus after being pied in the face at the YMCA in West Bend Friday afternoon. The pie to the face of the managers was apart of the Staff Appreciation Day. Steinhaus won the competition to pie the other four remaining managers. Employees voted for Steinhaus by placing the most money in her marked jar.

Realizing Greatness

2011-09-29T22:22:00.000-04:00

Hartford Unions' Annie Harmon reacts after seeing her time in the 100 free style at Hartford Union High School Thursday afternoon. Harmon took first with a time of 0:56.96.

Busy Wednesday

2011-09-28T18:34:00.000-04:00

Four students work on a spelling and word exercise using the iPad during Mrs. Renee Wilbergs class at Fair Park Elementary School in West Bend Wednesday morning. Fair Park Elementary is the first school to offer the iPad in the county. Gwen Backhaus traces out a word with her finger as she completes a word/spelling exercise during Mrs. Renee Wilbergs class at Fair Park Elementary School in West Bend Wednesday morning. Fair Park Elementary is the first school to offer the iPad in the county.

Job Fair:(From Left) Erik Harwood, 20, of Hartford and Cory Olwig, 19, of West Bend both fill out numerous applications after visiting the Job Fair at the Washington County Fair Park in the Town of Polk Wednesday afternoon. Close to 50 employers were available for new potential employees.

Regional Golf:

Hartford Unions' Jordan Fenney reacts after watching her ball sail right of the hole on the 16th hole during the WIAA Regional match at the Hartford Golf Club Wednesday afternoon.

A football game with a little bit more meaning

2011-09-24T00:16:00.001-04:00

Slinger's Dan Sabin gets emotional after telling coach Kevin Wilkinson "we won this for you" after beating Hartford Union in overtime 38-31 at Hartford Union High School Friday night. Friday marked the Coaches vs Cancer game. Wilkinson was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer in 2008. Proceeds from the game went towards The American Cancer Society.

Catching up in September

2011-09-22T16:28:00.002-04:00

Back logged items from the past two weeks:

William "Red Beard" Henke of Markesan enjoys his pipe while sitting in his tent with his wife Rose during the Buckskinners encampment at the Woodlawn Park in Hartford Saturday afternoon.

Jay Pintor of the Town of Wayne holds a head on a serving dish inside the Creep Manor built in his garage at his home in the Town of Wayne Wednesday evening. Jay was diagnosed with B Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma cancer in 2010. The Creep Manor was inspired by Disney's Haunted Mansion. Food donations are accepted and will be donated to the Hunger Task Force. Last year; Jay and his friends and family were able to donate over 12 hundred pounds of food. Jay will be honored at the September 26 Milwaukee Brewers game after his friend, Jody Arwood, entered a contest telling Jay's story.

West Bend East's Delaney McCreary screams after an east point against West Bend West at West Bend High School Tuesday night. West won in three games 26-24, 25-18 and 25-11.

1944 Class Reunion

2011-09-14T14:30:00.001-04:00

Silas " Gus" Miller of Barton laughs after looking through Edith Miller Koerble's old photographs during the West Bend High School reunion for the 1944 class at Cedar Ridge in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. " I could not tell the difference between Edith and her twin sister Ethel," said Gus.

Future Soldier Program

2011-09-07T18:45:00.003-04:00

Found a nice standalone yesterday and it turned into a story. First of many September 11 related stories this week.

Jordan Smaglick, 18, of Slinger goes back up for another push up while competing in a push up contest among other Army recruits during Future Soldier Training outside the West Bend Army Recruiter Station Wednesday evening. Sunday will mark the 10 year anniversary of Sept. 11.

Zach Merrell, 17, of Slinger fireman carries fellow recruit Jacob Sullivan, 17, of West Bend to the break point during Future Soldier Training outside the West Bend Army Recruiter Station Wednesday evening. Sunday will mark the 10 year anniversary of Sept. 11.

Jonathan Green

2011-09-06T14:03:00.001-04:00

Jonathan Green of the Town of Erin sits on his custom 2009 Harley-Davidson at his home in the Town of Erin Tuesday morning. Green had his 2009 Harley-Davidson custom painted green to reflect his last name. He also had a custom paint theme incorporated with radio. Green worked for WTMJ for 41 years before retiring.

Clip Winner

2011-09-05T11:50:00.001-04:00

Third Place Sports:

http://www.wnpaonline.com/graphpaper/wp-content/clipcontest/2011/07/index.html

Friday Night Lights

2011-09-03T00:31:00.000-04:00

Slinger's Dan Sabin (85) celebrates after scoring a touchdown in the second quarter against Watertown at Slinger High School Friday night. Watertown won with a late fourth quarter drive 35-28.

Photo of the Day

2011-09-01T21:47:00.000-04:00

Back to School

2011-08-30T22:32:00.003-04:00

Fair Park Elementary fifth grader Jennica Newkirk, 10, peeks her head over her new desk to see what supplies she has put on her desk while unpacking her back pack with her sister, Mackenzie, during the Silverbrook Middle School Open House in West Bend Tuesday evening. Fifth graders from Fair Park Elementary will be bumped up to Silverbrook Middle School because of space issues.

Football Under the Lights?

2011-08-26T23:59:00.001-04:00

Lights went out near half time:

111th US Amateur Championship: Day Two (Rain day)

2011-08-23T16:18:00.002-04:00

Meteorologist Jake Swick looks out his window to check on the current window while looking over the radar during the second day of the 111th US Amateur Golf Championship at Erin Hills Golf Course in the Town of Erin Tuesday afternoon. The US Amateur faced early rain delays that accounted for a three hour push back of tee times.

Ryan Card of Temecula, CA covers his face with his jacket in attempt to get some sleep during a rain delay at Blue Mound Golf Course and Country Club in Wauwatosa during the second day of the 111th US Amateur Golf Championship Tuesday morning. Weather delayed the morning by three hours.

Mike Ignaisak of Saline MI tees off on the 16th hole during the second day of the 111th US Amateur Golf Championship at Erin Hills Golf Course in the Town of Erin Tuesday morning.

111th US Amateur Championship

2011-08-22T17:41:00.002-04:00

Crowds gather all across the 17th hole and near the 14th hole as Jay Degenhart prepares for his shot during the opening round of the US Amateur at Erin Hills Golf Course in the Town of Erin Monday morning.

New Boys and Girls Club

2011-08-17T15:43:00.001-04:00

"A church member said we should be lucky to serve our building out," said Pastor Anna Doherty about the potential of St. Adain's Episcopal Church in Hartford. St. Aidan's is being considered as a possible location as after school activity center for the Hartford Boys and Girls club. The church features an outside garden,a nursery and open rooms for activities.

Geocache

2011-08-13T16:24:00.001-04:00

Hannah Rechfeldt, 10, of Milwaukee places the geocache back into its container after her team found it on the Ice Age Trail in West Bend Saturday morning. Over 1,700 people went across Washington County and through the rain to find the 66 different geocaches.

Photo of the Day....Saturday

2011-08-10T12:07:00.001-04:00

Bah ' De, a five year-old Golden Retriever, shakes himself dry before being toweled down during the dog wash at the Central Bark Doggy Day Care in Jackson Saturday afternoon. The money raised from the wash will go towards the instillation of solar lighting at the West Bend Dog Park.

Oh You Didn't Know....

2011-08-06T16:39:00.002-04:00

Your Ass Better Call Somebodyyyyyy.....

and tell them about this blog post:

Picking Weeds

2011-08-03T17:21:00.000-04:00

Ryann Duplanti, 10, of West Bend picks weeds outside her home on 7th Ave. in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. Ryann was helping with yard work as her family just completed mowing the yard. Temperatures are expected hover around the high 80s and low 90s the rest of the week.

Train Concert

2011-07-31T01:58:00.003-04:00

Photo of the Day

2011-07-29T23:22:00.001-04:00

The West Bend West team leaves their runner up trophy in the middle of the field as they gather for a team meeting after losing the State Final match up against Franklin at Bukolt Park in Stevens Point Friday afternoon. West lost the game 4-5. The loss marks the second consecutive year West has lost to Franklin in the State final game.

Corey Hart

2011-07-28T22:37:00.000-04:00

Milwaukee Brewer Corey Hart surrenders a bat after signing for a fan at Uptown Chevrolet in Slinger Thursday evening. Hart signed autographs for over two hours shortly after the Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs 4-2.

The signed autograph of Milwaukee Brewer Corey Hart in the purse of Ashley Tubbs, 21, of Hartford at Uptown Chevrolet in Slinger Thursday evening. Hart signed autographs for over two hours shortly after the Brewers beat the Chicago Cubs 4-2.

Thats Life

2011-07-27T22:02:00.002-04:00

The Gerhartz family (From Left) Olivia, 1, JoAnne, Abby, 5, Dave and Ruby, 3, at home in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. Dave teaches in West Bend and has filled his summer vacations with Christian music. Dave released his CD titled "Here You Call." The family is dipping into the savings to help fund Dave's new music career.

Washington County Fair- Opening Day

2011-07-27T00:07:00.004-04:00

A patron shields his eyes from the sun to see over the bridge and to the carnival side of the Washington County Fair during the opening night at the Washington County Fair Park in West Bend Tuesday evening. Events will continue throughout the week concluding Sunday.

Soccer Player of the Year

2011-07-26T17:41:00.001-04:00

Heat Wave

2011-07-20T13:06:00.002-04:00

Went into work early to get some high-noon heat wave stuff and found this construction crew:

WB Corp construction worker Patrick Muckerheide wipes his brow while placing cement down for a sidewalk near Badger Middle School in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. The heat index reached in the mid 90s on Wednesday.

WB Corp construction worker John Mertzig has sweat drip from his brow, nose and hat while placing cement down for a sidewalk near Badger Middle School in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. The heat index reached in the mid 90s on Wednesday.

WB Corp construction worker Patrick Muckerheide smiles after saying he has three years-11 months and nine days until his pension kicks in while waiting with co-workers for a batch of cement to arrive at their work site near Badger Middle School in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. The group took shade under a near-by tree for a quick break and drink of water. The heat index reached in the mid 90s on Wednesday.

Brought someone to work with me

2011-07-09T17:45:00.000-04:00

Photo of the Day

2011-07-08T21:27:00.001-04:00

West Bend East catcher Zack Decent (16) makes the tag to Slinger's Chad Strupp (1) to keep the game tied in the bottom of the sixth at Slinger High School Friday evening. East went onto win in the top of the seventh 9-5.

Summer School

2011-07-08T12:32:00.001-04:00

(Left) Ronald Swosinski, 10, reaches out and touches a toad found by classmates during Discover Hidden Worlds program at Green Tree Elementary School in West Bend Friday morning. Students participated in the four-week summer school course. The class Discovering Hidden Worlds introduced new biological areas including wetlands, grassland, forest, ponds/lakes and oceans.

Crazy day

2011-07-07T22:58:00.001-04:00

Baseball and Roll-Overs:

Campbellsport's Ryan Lindsley (16) slides back into first safely against Kewaskum at Campbellsport High School Thursday evening. Kewaskum trailed 9-0 after the first inning but won the game 15-9. The win marked career victory 300 for head coach Doug Gonring.

Washinton County Sheriff's officials inspect the remains of a cavalier LS after a roll over accident on US 45 north near Paradise Dr. in West Bend Thursday evening. The 17-year-old Town of Polk female driver was found by officials 15 feet from the car when entering the scene. Witnesses say the car was traveling on US 45 southbound before heading into the medium.

Skatepark Day

2011-07-06T16:59:00.002-04:00

Needed a feature and thought I have not been here yet in my seven months in West Bend:

Allen Carlton, 17, of Hartford flips forward on roller blades at the Veterans Skatepark in Hartford Wednesday afternoon. Carlton and his friends go to the skatepark everyday during the summer time. Carlton has been roller skating for the past eight years. " I come here to clear my mind," said Carlton.

NASCAR Nationwide Bucyrus 200

2011-06-26T00:26:00.003-04:00

Dollar General Chevrolet driver Reed Sorenson raises his hands up after completing his victory donuts during the NASCAR Nationwide Bucyrus 200 at Road America in Elkhart Lake Saturday evening. Sorenson won the race in caution after a third attempt at a green-white-checkered flag in 56 laps. Justin Allgaier held the lead but ran out of gas on the last lap.

Minnesota Twins vs Milwaukee Brewers

2011-06-25T02:03:00.003-04:00

Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder extends both arms as he watches his two-run double go across right field to put the Brewers back on top against the Minnesota Twins at Miller Park in Milwaukee Friday Night. The Brewers won 4-3 off Fielder's two-RBI double in the bottom of the seventh.

IZOD IndyCar Milwaukee 225

2011-06-19T23:49:00.002-04:00

Target Chip Ganassi driver Dario Frachitti raises his fist to celebrate his victory of the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Franchitti lead 161 of 225 laps.

KV Racing Technology- Lotus driver EJ Viso hits the wall in turn four of the 165 lap during the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Dario Franchitti took first place after leading 161 of 225 laps.

Green Bay Packer's cornerback Charles Woodson displays his Super Bowl ring to the crowd before the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Woodson and race car legend Al Unser Jr. dropped the green flag for the 225. Dario Franchitti took first place after leading 161 of 225 laps.

Members of the JDC Motor Sports move a car frame under the track and into the mid-field before the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Dario Franchitti took first place after leading 161 of 225 laps.

A group of men and one woman gather for shelter from the rain outside the women's restroom before the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Dario Franchitti took first place after leading 161 of 225 laps.

Target Chip Ganassi Racing driver Dario Franchitti sprays champagne at the crowds in victory lane during the IZOD IndyCar Series Milwaukee 225 at the Wisconsin State Fair Grounds in West Allis Sunday morning. Franchitti took first place after leading 161 of 225 laps.

Massive Update

2011-06-14T16:30:00.006-04:00

US Army Veteran Jerry Jerome salutes Badger Middle School students as students give him a standing ovation after Jerome spoke with students at Badger Middle School in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. Students raised $674.76 to send Jerome and his wife to Pearl Harbor for the 70 anniversary of the attacks. Jerome served the U.S Army during the attacks at Pearl Harbor back in 1941.

Living Word Lutheran senior Kevin Christopher Winter is filled with emotion as he hugs his counselor Kim Ehley after walking across the stage and to his wheel chair on the other end to receive his diploma during Living Word Lutheran High School's graduation ceremony at Living Word Lutheran High School in Jackson Friday afternoon. Winter has been in a chair his whole life but set a goal 10 months ago to walk at graduation. " If I could spend another 10 years here I would," said Winter.

Slinger catcher Kayla Morris tags out Kettle Moraine Lutheran's Angela Wezyk (11) in the top of the sixth during a regional championship game at Slinger Middle School Thursday afternoon. Slinger went onto win 4-2 to advance to sectionals.

Barton Elementary School students all reach up with their hands to feel cool water while Principal Jim Curler sprays them down with a hose during recess outside of Burton Elementary School in West Bend Tuesday afternoon. Temperatures in the classroom at Barton reached close to 87 degrees during the afternoon.

Angela Schmidt bites her nails while sitting before her sentencing at Washington County Court Thursday afternoon. Angela Schmidt was sentenced on two accounts with improperly selling her daughter with husband David to a Missouri woman in 2004. Angela will serve six months in the Washington County jail but qualifies for good time at 25 percent. She also will serve two years probation for the second account.

Tripoli Shrine Circus:

Karaoke Friday Night

2011-05-27T23:00:00.001-04:00

Jerald Campbell of Milwaukee sings "Bump N' Grind" by R Kelly at EzN Sports Bar and Grill in West Bend Friday night. The state finals for karaoke is June 18.

The Last Librarian

2011-05-06T22:04:00.002-04:00

Mclane Elementary school librarian Barbara Deters holds her favorite book to read to children titled " A Fine, Fine School" by Sharon Creech at Mclane Elementary School in West Bend Friday afternoon. Deters has been working at Mclane since 1985 and been in charge of the six area elementary school libraries for the past two years. After the position is cut West Bend High Schools will be taking over the six elementary school libraries. " I tell them (other librarians) not to miss a book on dinosaurs, castles or snakes because they are what the kids want to read," said Deters.

First Win of the Season

2011-05-05T20:57:00.002-04:00

West Bend East's Samantha Gross (4) jumps for a hig-five from pitcher Andrea Benson (3) after the team collects their first win against Slinger at Slinger High School Thursday evening. West Bend East won their first game of the season winning 1-0.

Opening Day: Milwaukee Brewers vs Atlanta Braves

2011-04-04T22:04:00.002-04:00

Baseball is Back:

A Milwaukee Brewer fan raises his hands and screams as the final words of the National Anthem are said before the Brewers host the Atlanta Braves for the 2011 home opener at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

A story we did on a kid and his first opening day:

Tanner Schmoldt, 8, of West Bend holds his fist as he sees the Milwaukee Brewers turn a double play in the first inning against the Atlanta Braves for the 2011 home opener at Miller Park Monday afternoon. Schmoldt missed school to see his first home opener with his mother, grandma and grandpa, Hiram Justman. Justman has been going to Milwaukee home openers since they were the Milwaukee Braves. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones is introduced before taking on the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2011 home opener at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Atlanta Braves right fielder Jason Heyward is introduced before taking on the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2011 home opener at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Atlanta Braves center fielder Nate McLouth looks on before taking on the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Atlanta Braves first year manager Fredi Gonzalez looks on before taking on the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Mean mugging the crap out of me:

Milwaukee Brewers radio announce Bob Uecker talks with media members before the Milwaukee Brewers host the Atlanta Braves for their 2011 home opener at Miller Park Monday afternoon. The Brewers went onto lose off of two solo home runs in the eight inning 2-1.

Amber Rose: Bone Tumor

2011-04-01T15:34:00.001-04:00

Green Tree elementary student Amber Rose Pflughoeft, 11, looks over at her brother Ayden as he puts on his sun glasses at their mother's home in West Bend Wednesday afternoon. Amber has been going to treatment for a bone tumor in her leg at Childrens Hospital for the past few months and goes for five different kemo treatments. Next week Amber will be receiving lung surgery. " I like to draw, do homework and play with my brother. He knows not to touch my leg," said Amber.

CORY Place

2011-03-29T18:37:00.016-04:00

A story I worked on last year for close to six months. The story never ran in The Bay City Times for reasons I do not know. Here are the photos and un-edited story enjoy:

A 13-year-old Bay County girl watches as her mother leaves her CORY Place for the temporary shelter care program. The two week program allows a time out for children to help resolve any issues they have at home or school. During the duration children are expected to continue attending school and to complete choirs around the facility.

CORY Place

Being abused, forgotten, left, kicked-out are what many teens face everyday. For those teens that experience this in Bay County there is a place to gain a second chance.

CORY Place Inc., 581 N. Scheurmann Rd in Essexville Mich., provides home and services to homeless and runaway youth. They help children with problems at home or school and give them a chance to take a break and clear the air.

"Sometimes it is because of a new girlfriend or boyfriend that mom or dad has brought home and they basically say it is either me or the kid," said CORY Place Inc Youth Director Kylee Strieter.

CORY Place also offers consoling services at schools to help reach out to children. Strieter said that children often are afraid to tell their parents that they want counseling. CORY Place can not diagnose or provide prescription but can provide someone to listen to and provide that attention that youth often feel they do not receive.

Strieter, along with other counselors, travel to Hampton Elementary, 1908 West Youngs Ditch Rd., Handy Middle School, 601 Blend St., and Bay City Central High School, 1624 Columbus Ave.

Bay City Central's Dean of Students and a school counselor Anita Shillair has found CORY Place's presence extremely helpful in the past 10 years.

"They need a presence in the community that they (students) know is available, " said Shillair.

With school breaks, summer vacations and a high number of students Shillair admits that the extra counselors help reach more students.

CORY Place offers an open door counseling service to the schools. They come in and take care of the crisis and open a line of communication between the student and parents.

In the past 10 years that CORY Place has been offering their services to Bay City Central Shillair remembers two different occasions that students lives were changed.

On two different instances two students were able to get out of bad situations and stay at CORY Place. The two graduated from Bay City Central High School and went to college on scholarships.

CORY Place does receive donations to help cloth the children that stay for the transitional living program. A basement full of clothes offers a ray of selection incase the child that is staying have none other than what they are wearing. " I know they are not the coolest clothes but we are starting to get some brand names in and the kids seem to be a little excited by that," said Strieter.

Along with personal donations such as clothes and canned food CORY Place receives donations and their funding from the United Way of Bay City, HUD, Michigan Department of Human Services, the Federal Government.

CORY Place also reaches out to the streets to help children that may not know about their services.

Residents and CORY Place officials comb the streets to try and find runaway teenagers that may need a one night stay."If the refuse to come back to CORY Place we provide them with one of our little green bags."

In the green bag the materials range from a nutritional snack to hygienic materials to help keep clean. In the colder months a hat and gloves are provided.

If a child does decide to come back to the shelter there are two different programs that help with the stipulations that come with each child. For the younger children, 10-20 years-old, there is a two-week program. For the older children, 17-20 years-old, there is a two-year program.

Anthony Pershing, 19, of Oakland County dances his way across the dinning hall before

doing his chores after group therapy Monday April 19. After group therapy on Mondays

the group will conclude the meetings by completing chores.

The temporary shelter care (TSC) is a 14 day program that allows children to have a break from the problems of school and home. " During the two week program we have the children continue to complete chores and continue to go to school so they do not get comfortable or lazy during their stay," said Strieter. During the stay group sessions are held with parents and their kids to try and resolve any issues that can range from abuse or thoughts of suicide.

"We give them a neutral party to listen to instead of the he-said she-said they experience a lot."

With older children the two year program allows them to restart their life. The transitional living program (TLP) is designed for homeless youth from 17 to 20 years old. "We want to prepare them to live on their own," said Strieter. The children will buy their own food, find a job and enroll in school if they are not enrolled yet.

"Sometime they have a difficulty living by themselves so we give them that stable person to lean on."

A selection of residents of CORY Place walk back from McDonalds in Bay City to make it back to their group session

on Monday night. The group sessions helps teens work out standing issues that may be caused by problems at work, school or at home.

_______________________________________________________________

Nicole McBride:

CORY Place resident Nicole McBride smiles while in her room at Cory Place in Bay City. Between time at school at Bay Arenac Community High School and her time at CORY Place McBride participates in the street outreach program. The program reaches children and teens that are out on the street and have no place to stay for the night. McBride has been with CORY Place for over a year and plans on taking the next step with her live when she movies out into her own place in Beaverton in October.

"I remember my first night I could not sleep at all," said Nicole McBride about the first night she stayed at CORY Place. She stayed up all night writing her mother letters telling her that she had changed and wished that everything would be normal again. McBride says since her year at CORY Place that her relationship with her mom has grown and that she frequently visits her.

After staying once before at CORY Place when she was 13 Nicole McBride, 18, of Beaverton has always had CORY Place in the back of her head. When problems persisted and foster care homes kept kicking her out it become more of a reality. After stints in jail, juvenile and foster homes McBride feels more at home at CORY Place.

With a charge on her account McBride says it is harder finding a job and things she wishes she could do she cannot because of it. "Now that I have a little charge on my record I can not join the National Guard...It makes finding a job hard and it makes life a little harder."

It has taken McBride two years to gather things from her childhood from Beaverton to CORY Place in Bay City.

"I don't think he was ready to let go of me," said McBride about her grandfather, Robert Hoermann, that helped raise her and her sister, Melissa McBride, 20.

"I remember my first night I could not sleep at all, I stayed up all night. I was writing letters to my mom about how sorry I was and how I let her down and got in trouble again. I told her now that I am here I am going to make it a new start , a new change and be a better person."

McBride has started to change while staying in the TLP program at CORY Place. McBride and her mother have been fixing their relationship and often visit each other when they have the time.

"At that point in time in our life, it was a lot of stress off of me because there had been so much tension and so much that was not good at the time, " said Nicole's mother Toni Baird of Beaverton.

Baird admits that Nicoles time at CORY has really been rewarding but wishes that it would have come five years earlier. Baird feels that with her time at CORY Place communication between her and her daughter have opened up. We talk about everything, there is nothing we can't talk about. Two years ago; there were things you could not talk with her, she was her own person said Baird.

With CORY Place they allow you to be yourself, said Baird. She has grown up in the last two years.

McBride helps with the street outreach program to help people that may be in the same situation she was once in. " What I do is put up flyers and hand out emergency kits with cleaning stuff in it food and drink in it."

While attending Bay Arenac Community High School,1608 Hudson St, in Essexville McBride has received many academic awards. From 'Student of the Week' in February to the Golden Quill award for excellence in writing. The award that sticks out is an appreciation award taped atop both of the awards.

The Appreciation Award for a strong act of kindness.

Various awards won by CORY Place resident Nicole McBride, 18, of Beaverton since

becoming a resident at CORY Place.

At Bay Arenac Community High School hot lunch is provided from St. John the Evangelist School, 619 Main St. which is located right down the road from Bay Arenac. McBride offered to help the lunch attended, Esther, carry some of the lunches from the car into the school.

"I just thought of it as a small favor and help her out. The kids would bombard her and then leave. I just thought I would help her out," said McBride.

McBride's goal is to stay at CORY Place until December and get her own place closer to home and try to work things out with her mom a little better. Right now Nicole works with her mother in Beaverton at the Beaverton Dairy Bar, 301 Ross St. in the summer while on summer vacation.

On June 9 Nicole will do something that she thought she would never do. Nicole will graduate from Bay Arenac Community High School at Essexville Garber High School, 213 Pine St. in Essexville at 10:00 a.m.

"I have no doubt that she will accomplish what she wants to do," said Superintend of Bay Arenac Community High School Dr.Ryan Dollan.

Dollan wishes that Nicole will make visits back to the school to help provide a role model for future generations of students at the school.

Nicole plans to attend Mid Michigan Community College in Mount Pleasant to help her become an english teacher.

Toni Baird of Beaverton stands with her daughter Nicole after her graduation presentation for Bay Arenac

Community High School. Baird drove from Beaverton to she her daughter graduate from High School.

Abraham Lincoln

2011-03-24T23:08:00.001-04:00

It was like stepping back in time:

Abraham Lincoln, portrayed by Robert Rotgers, exits the podium after delivering a speech during the Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizens Award Ceremony at Cedar Ridge Apartments in West Bend Thursday evening. Seven high school students were recognized with Good Citizens Awards for their work with outstanding dependability, service, leadership and patriotism.

Area Wrestler of the Year

2011-03-23T19:52:00.002-04:00

He did not have his gear with him so I did this instead:

Kewaskum High School senior Bo Seibel finishes his wrestling year by capturing the 189-pound Division II State Championship in Madison in February. " Since I was a freshman and a little kid and watching the finals I said I want to be there," said Seibel. Siebel will attend the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point in the fall and play football.

Wisconsin Coaches Hall of Fame

2011-03-16T20:53:00.002-04:00

"All my days are easy," said Slinger High School coach and teacher Fred Spaeth about teaching and coaching at Slinger High School Wednesday afternoon. Spaeth coached the varsity football team at Slinger since 1980. Spaeth still donates his time by coaching the golf team and teaching at the school. Spaeth will be inducted into the Wisconsin Coaches Hall of Fame March 26.

Donald Driver and Andrew Bogut

2011-03-12T18:38:00.002-05:00

The Mucky-mucks of the Wisconsin area:

Green Bay Packer's wide receiver Donald Driver talks with a group of children at the YMCA Sports Night fundraiser at the West Bend Mutual Prairie Friday night. Driver signed autographs, conducted a silent auction and spoke with children.

Lisa Moore of West Bend kisses Green Bay Packer's wide receiver Donald Driver at the YMCA Sports Night fundraiser at the West Bend Mutual Prairie Friday night. " He did say my kiss almost made him faint," said Moore. Driver signed autographs, conducted a silent auction and spoke with children.

Milwaukee Buck's center Andrew Bogut smiles under his shirt as he hands a ball to Shaun Winkelman, 4, of Hartford while signing autographs at Uptown Chevrolet in Slinger Thursday evening. The Milwaukee Bucks will take on the Philadelphia 76ers Saturday night.

Photo of the Day....yesterday

2011-03-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

Rheannon Stark, 6, of Hartford hits her brother Jeard, 10, with a snowball while walking home from Lincoln Elementary on Cedar St. in Hartford Wednesday afternoon.