miigwech

I've known how inadequate the words "thank you" are in the past, "thanks," but I've never known the complete inadequacy of them until my 80th Birthday and Community Celebration happened. Thus I have used the Ojibwa word with the hopes that it will (somehow) convey my deepest gratitude to those who put it together, enjoyed it, gave gifts and donations, and put it to bed. Parties come and go, but this one was totally off the charts.

So many people worked to get this event to Ridgeland's Dutchman's Bar & make it work, and to carry it in to the park across the street. I can't even begin to name all the names, but here are a few: my dear Wife, Joni Cash, Jody Slocum, Tina Bloomer, Rene Carrell, Jane Anderson, Ila Duntemann, Kathy Ruggles, Stephen & Mary Ann Boe, Joel and Meg Wittenmeyer, Keith Luer, Aaron Roberts, Todd Miller & Crew, Maureen Rochefort, Suzanne & Douglas Owens-Pike, Erica Granpre, Taylor Dees, and Jennifer Norman. The musicians: Mary Stoyke and Will Agar, Mary Klee, Jay Collins, Jim Holdman, Dean Granros, and Willie Williams. Sky Lanterns thanks to Lewis Dees. Beer & Root Beer thanks to Five Star Brewery (aka Viking), Randy & Ann Lee). Video projection by Kurt Buetow, and the video of Elsie's Farm, "Dirty Work," thanks to Deb Wallwork and Mike Hazard.

People were very generous to the organizations represented, the Hay River Transition Iniative, the Prairie Farm/Ridgeland Food Pantry, and Farmer to Farmer and the Wisconsin Farmer's Union were also present. And I received so many splendid cards and presents, some of which were unidentifiable by name ... thanks to you anonymous people, and to so many people for donations to the "kitty" to make things work. Ice run by Chrissie & Bryan. The food by Bifrost Farms LLC, gift of the brisket by Alexander Roberts. The many, many relish dishes and deserts brought by so many, many people were thoroughly enjoyed. A few food containers are here, only one of which we know how to return; please call us if you are looking for one: (715) 658-1074. Again. miigwech. ps. I would like to acknowledge the sizable number of people who wanted to be there but couldn't. Your presence was a part of the festivities. My apologies to anyone I've left out here in "the credits."