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Children and Bison Connect by Christine Calnin November 3, 2004 -- Candle making, butter churning and crafting dream catchers were just a few of the activities a group of children visiting BisonRidge Ranch in Packwaukee participated in. Maria Rudesill, director of the Montello Area Community Learning Center, along with a number of parents chaperoned 60 children from kindergarten to sixth grade visited BisonRidge Ranch for an afternoon of creative fun. Georgia Derrick, owner of BisonRidge Ranch was also happy to welcome Robert and Judy Kohel to assist in educating the young visitors about the deep connection the Native American people have with the bison. The Kohels provided music, folklore and an abundance of information, holding children on the edge of their seats for more. Robert Kohel is a spiritual leader - Dakota Sundancer - and carries the sacred canumpa (pipe) for the people. "Robert is Founder of the Eagle's Nest Center, Incorporated, in Westfield, which exists to provide help to young people struggling with today's life issues," says wife Judy, executive director of ENC and Native American storyteller. "He walks a sacred path to bring medicine to the people to provide healing from difficulties with drugs, alcohol, anger, violence and the pain of sexual abuse. Robert continues the tradition of the Buffalo Nation and is also known as Mato Iyankahan - Running Bear - to those that are close to him. This is Robert's way of life and he takes his commitment to the people very seriously," she adds. Maria Rudesill, director of the Montello Area Community Learning Center chose BisonRidge Ranch because it offers a unique opportunity for students to learn about the history of their home as well as the history of the Native Americans and Pioneers. "It is an incredible local resource and a beautiful place to visit," says Rudesill. The Montello Area Community Learning Center focuses on providing educational opportunities for the community. The CLC does this through after school programs for students, community theatre and community education classes such as dance, Tae Kwon Do, one step painting and cross county skiing to everyone in the community. Rudesill, along with her husband Barry, a volunteer instructor with the CLC, also own and operate Rabbit Hat Productions which provides activities and programs for camp, churches, schools and other organizations or individuals who are looking for something "a little different". Magic shows, storytelling and teambuilding are just a few programs that the Rudesills offer. Georgia Derrick's goal is to bring these diverse groups together to learn and to enjoy the gifts of the earth, the bison and other things BisonRidge Ranch has to offer. It was only natural to collaborate with the CLC for the first of what Derrick hopes is many such outings.   For more information on BisonRidge Ranch, call Georgia at (608) 589-5500.

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BisonRidge Ranch  -  W5707 Highway D  -   Montello, WI  53949  -  (608) 589-5500