The theater at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center was named for Hanson, who has played key roles in protecting the Apostle Islands Lakeshore and the St. Croix River, and bringing elk back to Wisconsin. He also has helped various Democratic campaigns.

Congressman Dave Obey, in videotaped greetings from D.C., called Hanson ``northern Wisconsin's first citizen of the land.'' U.S. Sens. Kohl and Feingold also sent greetings, and Tourism Secretary Kevin Shibilski presented Hanson with a proclamation from Gov. Jim Doyle. These lawmakers attended: Sen. Bob Jauch, Sen. Mark Meyer, Rep. Dave Travis and Rep. Gary Sherman. Hanson friend Barbara Linton, a former state lawmaker, served as emcee.

• Read the Ashland Newspaper Story
• Read the Ashland Newspaper Editorial
• Read the Center Press Release
• See the Reception Program (.pdf)