Leader | Feb 10 | 2016

• WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016 • VOLUME 83 • NO. 26 • 2 SECTIONS

Kids Pro Ice racing in Luck

Grantsburg’s WinterNationalfest showcases talent

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“Bullying by adult educators” led to suicide, parents say Parents blast Unity administration for handling of student mental health issues PAGE 4

Couple bound over for trial on charges they let 9-year-old drive home Being perched above the Balsam Lake Winterfest activities can be fun, especially when you can do a little “body sledding” on your snow pants. Pictured (L to R): Pearl, 7; Paige, 9; Warren, 8 and Amelia, 10. More photos on page 31 and in Currents. - Photo by Greg Marsten

FIRST READ FREDERIC - Northwest Alliance Community Foundation invites the public to attend a free presentation titled “Why do I need to give back to my community in 2016 and what is in it for me?” Are you making a real difference in the lives of those around you? Do you have a passion to create change and to find solutions to the challenges that impact our area? Would you like to learn how to use your time and talents to make a lasting imprint on your community? Please attend this brief presentation on Tuesday, Feb. 16, at 6 p.m., at the Frederic Public Library. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, visit northwestalliancecf.org. – submitted ••• OSCEOLA/MEDINA, Minn. - Polaris Industries Inc. has laid off about 100 workers, about half of them at operations in the Twin Cities. A company spokesperson said Tuesday, Feb. 2, that the company had experienced a drop in fourth-quarter profits and was concerned about a projected steeper dip in the first quarter of 2016. The layoff is not expected to affect the Osceola plant. “We just wanted to make sure that we are aligning our employment costs with our growth projections and so we’ve been taking every step we can to remove costs from the organization,” said Kelly Basgen, senior director of communications at Polaris. with information from Minneapolis Star-Tribune ••• STATEWIDE - Wisconsin residents could go online to register to vote, but voter registration deputies would be eliminated under a bill that passed along party lines in the Senate Tuesday night. The online registration bill started out with sponsors from both parties, including Madison Democratic Sen. Fred Risser.

However, Risser ended up voting against it. “This is sort of a bait-and-switch bill,” he said. “The bait is that this is going to help registration. The switch is that, in fact, it doesn’t help registration. It hurts the whole concept.” Oostburg Republican Sen. Devin LeMahieu said online registration eliminates the need for voter registration deputies because it lets anyone conduct voter registration drives. “All I need is my smartphone or my iPad, and I can go up to people on the street and say, ‘Would you like to register to vote? Are you registered to vote?’” LeMahieu said. Opponents contend that some people lack the technological know-how or the state-issued ID they need to register online. The plan heads next to the Assembly. - Shawn Johnson | WPR news

Amanda Eggert and Jason Roth face multiple felony charges from drunken incident PAGE 3

Osceola man charged in homicide attempt Beating was so severe, police thought victim wouldn’t survive the night PAGE 3

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• Kids Pro Ice racing @ Siren • Ice-fishing contest @ Big Wood Lake • Chicken BBQ, music, etc. @ A&H • Winter carnival @ Luck • Firefighters ball @ Osceola • Special ed fundraiser @ Siren • Candlelight Night @ SCFalls See Coming Events for details

Dorothy L. Peterson Vicki L. Hanson Patricia Rommel Van Patten Vernon Bernard “Red” Reiter Wyatt Edward Marek Carole Lynne Hagstrom Harold J. Ward Constance Sue Bowar Evelyn Margaret Johansen Elvera “Vera” J. Amundsen Barbara Marie Stahler Dorothy Marie Roskos Robert G. Ramstrom Barbara Janice Hoag Gerald A. Hacken Helen Elaine Norgard

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Mary Mack appears in Cumberland A cooperative-owned newspaper Board of directors:

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Comedy star and Webster High School graduate Mary Mack made an appearance in Cumberland last Saturday, Feb. 6, bringing her unique style of folk humor to an appreciative crowd. Mack, whose comedy is dotted with occasional mandolin and clarinet outbursts, has been on Comedy Central’s Live at Gotham, NBC’s “Last Comic Standing” and plays the co-lead character, Dylan, on Fox’s cartoon “Golan the Insatiable,” season one. She performs regularly in Northwest Wisconsin but has spent the past month entertaining audiences in New York City.

You can follow Mack at twitter.com/marymackcomedy or at marymackcomedy.com. - Photos by Scott Hoffman

The Fiddlers Bloc to perform at West Denmark

Festival brings the love to Franklin Square Black Box

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A trio of renowned fiddlers from Sweden, Norway and the Shetland Islands will play a unique show just outside of Luck at the West Denmark Parish Hall at 2492 170th St., west of Luck. The Nordic Fiddlers Bloc takes place on Saturday, Feb. 27, at 7 p.m. The three Bloc fiddlers are Anders Hall, Kevin Henderson and Olav Luksengard, and are among the finest folk fiddlers in the world, in great demand at a variety of venues. The show does carry a fee and tickets are available at the door. Students are half price. For more information on the Nordic Fiddler Bloc, go to their website, thenordicfiddlersbloc.com. - Photo submitted

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American Birkebeiner-based film to premiere HAYWARD – Magnolia Pictures, in collaboration with the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, is pleased to announce the North American premiere of the extraordinary Norwegian feature film, “The Last King.”

The event will mark the first time the film will be viewed publicly on North American soil. The film is rooted in Norwegian history and tells the story of the very legacy upon which the American Birkebeiner ski marathon is based. “Once we learned of the American Birkebeiner ski marathon, we knew we wanted to share the film with this fiercely dedicated group of adventurous spirits,” said Neal Block, Magnolia Pictures head of distribution. “The American Birkebeiner is a true celebration of the courage, perseverance, character and determination of the warriors at the heart of “The Last King.” The film will premiere at the Park Center in Hayward as part of the American Birkebeiner’s week of Nordic festivities. The North American premiere will include three “The Last King” will premiere lat- showings, Saturday, Feb. 20, at 5 and 8 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 21, at noon. Tickets will be er this month in Hayward. - Spesold in advance and exclusively at Birkie. cial photo com. Magnolia Pictures is graciously donating $5 from every ticket sold to the American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation to further their mission of promoting healthy, active lifestyles for people of all ages. – with submitted information

Ed Moersfelder - Photo submitted ST. CROIX FALLS - Festival Theatre’s “Hopelessly Romantic” Valentine’s event will be held on Sunday, Feb. 14, beginning at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome to the Franklin Square Black Box for a fun evening with drinks, your favorite acting company and guest artists, who specialize in bringing a humorous, jaded, sardonic and/or satiric look at romance. This occasion marks Festival’s seventh-annual Valentine’s evening special, hosted by Ed Moersfelder with music by Nancy Conger and improvisational comedy and performance by Andrew Benson, Seth Kaltwasser, Abi Leveille and Elizabeth Albers. To win a prize, all are invited to enter the poetry contest. Write a sonnet, haiku, limerick or free verse and bring it with you to share at the event. Come prepared to laugh, flirt and propose to your favorite love.

Tickets are selling quickly and can be purchased online, by calling the box office or at the door. Reservations are recommended, as space is limited in the Franklin Square Black Box. - with submitted information

Grantsburg Rotary hosts Chinese students

The Grantsburg Rotary Club was visited by a group of students from Jinan, China, through the Sino-American Youth Ambassadors program. These students spent a week shadowing Grantsburg High School students and shared Chinese culture with all students in the Grantsburg School District. Pictured are Superintendent Joni Burgin, one teacher and 11 Chinese students, Rotary President Allan Johnson and Principal Josh Watt. – submitted

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FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Couple faces charges of letting 9-year-old drive home Amanda Eggert and Jason Roth faces multiple felony charges from drunken incident Greg Marsten | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE - The Glenwood City couple accused of being so drunk they had a 9-year-old child drive their truck home appeared before Judge Jeffery Anderson on Friday, Feb. 5, where he bound them over for trial on multiple felony charges.

The Glenwood City couple of Amanda Eggert, 32, and Jason Roth, 36, are facing a variety of charges for an incident that allegedly took place on the evening of Sunday, Jan. 31, near the area of CTH CC and 110th Street in Polk County, at a boat landing, where police stopped their truck after a citizen report of an erratic driver, who turned out to be Eggert’s 9-year-old daughter. The couple also had their infant with them in the vehicle.

Eggert faces four felony counts, including two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment and two charges of attempted battery to a law officer and an emergency worker. She also faces three misdemeanor counts, including one for disorderly conduct and two counts of child neglect. If convicted on all counts, she faces up to almost 28 years in prison and/or up to more than $80,000 in fines.

Eggert’s boyfriend, Roth, faces similar dual charges of second-degree reckless endangerment, as well as the two misdemeanor child neglect charges. His maximum penalty could be over 20 years and/ or up to $70,000 in fines.

The couple appeared before the judge in a preliminary hearing on Friday, Feb. 5, where the state laid out some of the background behind the arrest, for the judge to

Amanda Eggert, the woman accused of being so intoxicated that she had her 9-yearold daughter drive home, appeared before a judge on Friday, Feb. 5, where she showed her emotions after being bound over for trial.

Jason Roth discussed his case with attorney Kate Murtaugh at Roth’s preliminary hearing on Friday, Feb. 5. He was later bound over for trial on charges of reckless endangerment and child neglect. - Photos by Greg Marsten

decide if their was enough evidence to carry the case ahead to trial.

According to Polk County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Hahn, who was first on the scene, the incident began when they had witness calls of an erratic driver. The witness followed the vehicle as it went into the wrong lane of traffic and had to have several cars avoid a crash.

Hahn said he caught up with the vehicle four or five minutes after the call, at the boat landing, where he blocked the way to stop the vehicle. It was when he went to the driver’s seat that he saw who was behind the wheel.

“The driver was a child,” Hahn told the court. “Nine years old. Petite.”

Hahn noted how the 9-year-old stopped when he told her, but did not know what to do, other than get out of the driver’s seat.

“The 9-year-old got out (of the driver’s seat), in ‘drive,’” Hahn said, noting how Roth was sitting beside the girl and then turned the engine off, but the vehicle was not in ‘park’. “It began to roll into the river. I got into the truck to keep it from

rolling in … “ The deputy also saw the infant in a car seat behind the passenger seat, where Eggert had been sitting.

Hahn then told of how Eggert got out and appeared “very intoxicated, with difficult-to-understand speech,” a strong odor of alcohol and poor balance. He said she kept trying to shake his hand, and how she had a lot of dried blood on her other hand, from some sort of injury.

“It was obvious the injury would need stitches,” Hahn stated, as he explained how they called an ambulance to the scene for Eggert’s hand injury, but how she became boisterous, disorderly and began to fight with an EMT in the ambulance as they left. “(Another deputy) took her into custody,” Hahn said. “She also caused a disturbance at the hospital.”

Eggert’s actions in the ambulance and at the scene with law enforcement and emergency workers are the basis for the two attempted-battery charges, as Hahn said Eggert continually tried to tell her about the injury, but was difficult to un-

derstand.

She had apparently injured the hand in a snowmobile accident prior to the incident, but during her tirade in the ambulance, had opened the wound.

While Eggert was taken into custody, Hahn said Roth was calmer, more restrained and “less excited,” even admitting that he had a “no-drink” bond provision from an active court case.

During defense cross-examination of Hahn, both Roth and Eggert’s attorneys pointed out that the incident occurred in a very remote area, with little or no traffic.

“What we have here is a poorly advised driving instruction,” Eggert’s attorney, Dan Firkus, stated, arguing against the reckless endangerment charges. Roth’s attorney, Kate Murtaugh, agreed, but it didn’t seem to sway the judge, who bound both Roth and Eggert over for trial, and maintained their current $3,500 cash bond amounts.

“There are definitely concerns about the safety of the children,” Anderson stated as the prosecution noted that both children remain in the custody of relatives, adding that child protective services are involved in the case.

At a subsequent arraignment, both defendants pleaded not guilty and set a joint pretrial conference for March 11, where they are likely to set a preliminary trial date. There may also be a motion filed to join the cases together for prosecution, although they would maintain separate attorneys.

Both Roth and Eggert remained in Polk County Jail at press time.

The incident has since garnered national media attention, and also led to hundreds of social media comments on the couple and their actions, some of them quite inflammatory.

Osceola man charged in homicide attempt Beating was so severe, police thought the victim wouldn’t survive the night Greg Marsten | Staff writer OSCEOLA - Details are slowing emerging behind a disagreement that left a local man clinging to life after a severe beating.

That incident has led to multiple felony charges against Paul W. Krueger, 24, Osceola, who is charged with attempted second-degree intentional homicide, as well as felony aggravated battery, felony marijuana dealing and a misdemeanor obstruction charges after the incident that led to Krueger allegedly beating a local man so se- Paul W. Krueger verely, authorities were unsure if he would survive the night.

According to the criminal complaint filed by the Polk County District Attorney’s Office last week, the charges against Krueger stem from an alleged beating and series of incidents just after midnight on Monday, Feb. 1, in Osceola, at Krueger’s apartment.

Police were called after neighbors were awakened around midnight by yelling and apparent fighting in a nearby apartment. Those witnesses reported hearing loud calls of a man exclaiming “Ow, stop hurting me,” and “Why are you hurting me?” as well as one of the men yelling “I will wreck you!”

The yelling and disagreements went on for approximately 45 minutes before they called 911. They said the fighting seemed to stop once an Osceola Police cruiser rolled into the parking lot. When that Osceola Police officer tried to enter the apartment in question, Krueger opened the door slightly but refused to allow police to enter, loudly yelling he “knows his rights!”

Once back-up officers arrived from the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, they

again attempted entry into the apartment, Krueger again only opened the door slightly before the deputies forced it open, under concern for a possible victim.

As the police swept the scene, they placed Krueger in handcuffs and placed him under arrest, as he continued to resist, he was “escorted to the floor,” according to the narrative.

Police found Krueger with blood covering his hands, bare legs and shorts, but no significant injuries.

A victim is discovered While one officer took Krueger into custody, they also found a man unconscious on the dining room floor, 10 feet away.

The victim is a local man in his mid-30s.

They also found an apparently uninjured male, Joshua Rader, passed out or asleep on the living room couch.

The victim was found barely breathing and bleeding profusely from his head and face. EMTs arrived a short time later and treated him for severe trauma on the back of his head.

His face was bruised with puffy eyes and he had severe bruisJoshua Rader ing on the left side of his torso, as if from being punched repeatedly.

The victim was transported to the Osceola Medical Center for emergency treatment. He was later airlifted to Regions Medical Center in St. Paul, Minn., for further treatment.

In a bizarre twist, police were informed a short time later by OMC emergency personnel that they had discovered a plumsized wad of paper towel lodged in the victim’s throat, likely contributing to his inability to breathe or unconsciousness.

In a subsequent interview with the Leader, PCSD authorities believe the paper towel may have been placed in his throat to keep the man from yelling for help when police arrived, although they are unclear of the exact reason.

The criminal complaint describes how the police found Krueger’s apartment “covered in blood,” with splatters on the

walls, and a baby quilt on the floor, apparently meant to conceal what the investigator noted as a large “primary blood spill.”

They also found a large, metal-framed kitchen table covered in blood, with a broken glass top. The large table, and possibly other furniture, had apparently been moved to allow the victim’s body to be dragged across the floor, out of sight of the front door.

The man on the couch speaks As noted earlier, when police entered the apartment, they also found a man on the couch, Joshua J. Rader, 26, Osceola, who “appeared to be sleeping” when they entered.

Rader was also taken into custody, and in an interview with police later, gave some of the background on the activities that may have led to the incident.

He said the three of them, Krueger, Rader and the victim, had left the apartment about 5-6 p.m. the previous evening, Sunday, Jan, 29, to play pool in Wyoming, Minn. He said they drove Krueger’s pickup and got back to the apartment at about 10 p.m., after which they drank alcohol, watched TV and talked, with Rader stating that he had drunk “about 20 beers” and then passed out on the couch.

In the narrative, Rader told police there were no arguments prior to the time he passed out, telling police that “everything was fine.” He said he only recalled waking up when police and EMTs arrived, “with blood everywhere.”

“I would have stopped the fight if I could,” Rader reportedly said. “So some dude (the victim) didn’t get the (expletive) kicked out of him.”

Regardless of his account, Rader has been charged with a misdemeanor charge of failure to render aid to another person at the apartment.

The charges are finalized In a subsequent investigation, search warrants were obtained for Krueger’s apartment, which is where they discovered a black duffel bag on the kitchen floor, filled with marijuana and paraphernalia, such as a digital scale, baggies and smoking paraphernalia, as well as 14.3

grams of marijuana. They later found Krueger’s wallet stuffed between his mattresses, with over $1,100 in cash.

Krueger is charged with attempted second-degree homicide, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison. He is also charged with felony aggravated battery which carries a maximum prison term of up to 15 years, and/or up to $50,000 in fines. His felony charge of possession of marijuana with intent to sell means another $10,000 fine and/or 3.5-years in prison.

His misdemeanor obstructing an officer charge also carries a potential $10,000 fine and nine months in jail, as well. Overall, Krueger could face almost 50 years in prison and over $70,000 in fines.

He made an initial court appearance on Tuesday, Feb. 2, before Judge Jeffery Anderson, who set a $50,000 cash bond and scheduled a preliminary hearing for this Friday, Feb. 12, where the state will present evidence to support the charges, to have the judge bind Krueger over for trial.

The “sleeping man on the couch,” Rader, is scheduled to appear before a judge on his misdemeanor charge on Feb. 29, facing a misdemeanor charge of failure to render aid/report a crime, as a repeater. He is free on a $5,000 signature bond.

Other details In the days following Krueger’s arrest, there were rumors that the victim had died from his injuries, but PCSD officials confirmed that the man is making a recovery, although due to privacy laws, the extent of his injuries may not be known until later court proceedings or a trial.

Krueger does have an open court case in St. Croix County, which includes two misdemeanor charges of criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct. He is free on a $1,000 signature bond, and set to appear before a judge in March. He has pleaded not guilty to those charges.

Court records indicate that Krueger recently moved to Wisconsin from Minnesota. He has no criminal history in that state, only a variety of traffic citations.

He remains in custody at the Polk County Jail.

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Parents blast Unity administration for handling of student mental health issues

“Bullying by adult educators” led to suicide, parents say Mary Stirrat | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE - A short but explosive meeting of the Unity School Board of Education Tuesday evening, Feb. 9, drew nearly four dozen members of the public and school staff, many of whom were hurt, concerned, angry and distraught over the school’s handling of students with mental health issues.

The November death by suicide of a 15-year-old Unity student was the catalyst for the outpouring, with accusations made that school administration and staff failed to respond appropriately to his sit-

Steve Parliament called the Unity School Board of Education “dysfunctional” in its policy of limiting public comment. uation and actually contributed to the tragedy.

Parents letter A four-page letter signed by the student’s parents, Ted Michaelson and Sarah Broome, was distributed to the school board and staff in attendance at the meeting as well as the audience members.

The letter states that guidance counselor Doug Ramich, middle school Principal Elizabeth Jorgensen and district Administrator Brandon Robinson were “grossly negligent in their actions taken against” the couple’s son, and asks that they be removed from their positions as Unity staff members.

Ramich, according to the letter, was aware of the youth’s situation and had promised the parents he would look after the boy, but failed to do so. His actions prompted the county to file criminal charges against the youth, the letter indicates.

Jorgensen is accused of altering a disciplinary report on a fight involving the student and two other boys, and the alteration allowed the school to expel Michaelson’s son. The letter cites Polk County Deputy Troy Olson with saying that the Michaelsons should not send their son back to school because Jorgensen “hated” him.

Robinson, the letter indicates, told the family that he would use hearsay and his influence with the staff and school board to defame the boy’s character, and that the school board would do whatever he told them to do.

The point of the letter, Michaelson wrote, is that the school “did everything to destroy” a boy who was already scared, hurt, depressed and in need of help. Lying, falsifying records, coaching students on what to say and manipulating the county to file charges against the boy were all used in the process.

The boy was unable to recover from these actions, the resulting isolation and ruined reputation, the letter states.

“Our son was the victim of bullying by adult educators in this school district,” the letter concludes, “and as a result, lost his battle with depression and anxiety to suicide.”

Members of the Unity School Board of Education (clockwise from center front) are Kelly Bakke, Ryan Peterson, district Administrator Brandon Robinson, board President Debbie Ince-Peterson, Pat Kastens, Sheryl Holmgren and David Moore. Absent from the meeting was James Beistle.

Polk County Deputy Dale Hall was on hand at the Tuesday, Feb. 9, meeting of the Unity School Board, available to remove members of the audience that got too unruly.

Michaelson and Broome also stated in their letter that they have been in contact with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, the governor’s office, the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education, and the office of education consulting and teaching licensing, who will review the school’s decision in releasing the named staff members.

Public comment State statutes give school boards the authority, with parameters, to set a policy governing public participation at board meetings.

Unity’s policy allows individuals to register for three-minute time slots during the public comment portion of the meeting. The board can limit the number of individuals that speak, and cannot respond to the public comments.

Registered to speak were Michaelson, Steve Parliament and Laurie Broome.

Michaelson deferred his three minutes to Parliament.

“This letter describes a situation of severe concern to the people of the school district,” Parliament began. He asked the school board what curriculum the district has available for students and staff concerning the mental health of students, or to deal with students having difficulty returning to school after mental health issues.

He said that there is a great deal of concern that the curriculum doesn’t give staff what they need to help students returning after hospitalization and the stress that accompanies that type of situation.

From administration on down, he said, the staff is not prepared to deal with those issues, and instead refer students to law enforcement.

The primary objective of the staff should be the health and safety of the students, Parliament said, and the criminal justice system should not be used to address students with mental health issues. Jail should not be used as the only response to these issues.

Broome said that she just had a question for the board. “How do you accommodate within your curriculum children who have mental health issues?” she asked.

She went on to say that these students are being discriminated against and are sent home. The couple’s son had just been released from the hospital and was on new medication that would affect his behavior, she explained, then asked how this kind of situation is addressed in the

and that their main job is to care for and protect the students.

“As a mother you should understand,” she said to Peterson. As Peterson began to say that she would need to leave, Melin interrupted with a comment about being thrown out and left the room with an expletive.

Parliament made the final comment, saying that the board was dysfunctional in the way it handles the public and that it was very exclusionary.

District response According to district Administrator Brandon Robinson, Peterson offered to meet with Michaelson at another date and time to discuss the issues without the Emotions ran high in the Unity School board- constraint of the public comment policy. room Tuesday night, Feb. 9, ranging from pain This would have allowed the board and sadness to fear and anger. president to respond and answer questions, while Michaelson would not have needed to adhere to a three-minute limit. school curriculum.

Michaelson declined the offer, said Following policy that board members Robinson. do not respond to public comments, board President Debbie Ince-Peterson said that comments and concerns will be taken under advisement, and that staff and administration will be brought in on the discussion.

BALSAM LAKE — In a written stateAgitated audience members ignored ment issued Wednesday morning on bethe public comment policy, however, half of the Unity School District, district voicing their anger and fear and accusing administrator Brandon Robinson said the the board of an unwillingness to take ac- following regarding the Feb. 9 meeting: tion.

“The board will be reviewing the ques“It scares me that (my son) is going to tions and comments shared at the Board kindergarten next year and he’s already meeting last evening by the Michaelson going to be teased,” said one mother, family. Unfortunately, the Board meetspeaking through tears. ing was the venue or forum to discuss “I think we would be able to help you, the issues. ma’am,” said Peterson, “but there are “Both state and federal laws preserving procedures we need to follow as a board.” the confidentiality of records pertaining “Procedures,” another woman scoffed. to individual students prohibit school of“Are you kidding me?” ficials from telling their side of the whole Michaelson began to express his frus- story in a similar manner. There usually tration with the board and the school, are two sides to every story, which holds refusing to be silent when reminded of true in this instance as well.” the school’s policy regarding public comment. When Peterson asked him to leave, he turned and said, “I’m well aware nobody gives a s---,” with audience members saying that they did care and that the board should be ashamed.

As Michaelson was leaving, Kelsey Melin stood and pointed out that educators have one of the highest-stress jobs,

The Unity School boardroom was filled Tuesday night, Feb. 9, with parents concerned over the district’s handling of students with mental health issues. — Photos by Mary Stirrat

District response

Ted Michaelson, in a letter to the school board, wrote “The staff at Unity, under the supervision of Mr. Robinson, completely failed in their primary responsibility, with tragic consequences.”

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

Law enforcement roundtable highlights cooperative strategies Burnett County’s top law enforcement officers gather before public safety committee E. Royal Emerson | Staff writer SIREN - Burnett County’s top five law enforcement officers gathered together on Thursday, Feb. 4, as part of a roundtable discussion organized by the county’s public safety committee.

The roundtable was attended by Jeff Schinzing, police chief for the village of Grantsburg; Frank Taylor, police chief for the St. Croix Tribe; Mike Spafford, police chief of the village of Webster; Chris Sybers, police chief with the village of Siren, and Ron Wilhelm, sheriff of Burnett County.

Burnett County Administrator Nate Ehalt and county emergency management director Rhonda Reynolds facilitated the roundtable. Besides the county supervisors who make up the public safety committee, four other county supervisors were in attendance, including county board Chair and former Burnett County Sheriff Donald Taylor. Two county sheriff’s deputies and Tessa Anderson, coordinator of the Burnett County Drug Court, also attended the meeting.

“Public safety and law enforcement is one of the most critical services provided in Burnett County. This roundtable is an opportunity to work with and speak with all the law enforcement jurisdictions,” Ehalt said.

Ehalt handed out a half-page, bullet-point outline with the stated goal, “to discuss the public safety strategies for Burnett County that maximize the use of available resources and personnel.”

Reynolds, who works regularly with all the law enforcement jurisdictions as director of emergency management, guided the discussion, highlighting points of agreement on a white board.

“What are the top three priorities of your department?” Reynolds asked.

Taylor began the discussion, outlining three priorities that all other jurisdictions, including the sheriff, concurred with.

The top three priorities of Burnett County law enforcement, as articulated

by Taylor, include: a need for adequate staffing; continued training, especially around officer safety issues; and intergovernmental cooperation and information sharing.

“It really comes down to having officers on the street and having enough money and staff to do the job,” Sybers said. “If you are short-staffed and you’re going into a domestic-type situation, oftentimes it isn’t safe with just a single officer.”

Grantsburg Police Chief Schinzing highlighted continued training as an important need. “Given that police have had some darts thrown at them with recent events, we want to make sure our officers are well-trained and have the public trust,” he said.

Mutual aid Intergovernmental agreements, such as mutual aid, were also discussed, with Taylor taking the lead. “We work directly village to village and village to tribe,” Taylor said. “These mutual aid agreements are not for running radar or traffic stops.”

Taylor currently has the only K-9 drug-sniffing dog in the county. The sheriff’s department is also exploring its own K-9 unit. Some have suggested that the sheriff’s department could enter into a mutual-aid agreement with the tribe, thus forgoing an additional and separate K-9 drug-sniffing dog. Taylor quickly put that criticism to rest.

“I know the sheriff’s department needs a K-9 unit. Give it to them! We have a K-9 unit and it does a great deal in helping to keep drugs off the street,” Taylor said.

Other issues of discussion included the burden of having to transport prisoners to mental-health facilities in Eau Claire or

Burnett County Administrator Nate Ehalt (seated) and Burnett County Emergency Management Director Rhonda Reynolds (standing, left) facilitated the law enforcement roundtable.

Ashland. Such trips often consume an officer’s day, taking them away from local law enforcement responsibilities. Such transports, however, require trained law enforcement personnel, and no viable alternative to in-house transports was articulated.

135 years of law enforcement experience The five law enforcement officers gathered at the roundtable comprise 135 years of combined law enforcement experience, most of which has been garnered in the county.

Burnett County is a small poverty-afflicted rural community with limited funds and growing law enforcement issues, especially related to drug abuse. It has a year-round population of 15,000 people. The villages of Siren, Webster and Grantsburg, and the tribal community at Sand Lake, all serve populations under 1,000 residents.

Most of the law enforcement chiefs, and the sheriff, have served their communities

for a generation. These officers know their communities with an almost Andy Griffith-like continuity. And while in these hard times it would be difficult to compare Burnett County to Mayberry RFD, the roundtable highlighted how having law enforcement personnel that are truly local and community based is critical to maintaining a neighborly sense of place in our small rural communities. While interagency frictions may exist, the roundtable demonstrated that such frictions are more related to the long-standing, almost familial relationship among the public servants, rather than an irreparable fractious situation.

In other business, Wilhelm reported that the department has two new officers in training and another soon to return from medical leave. Once these officers are on staff, the department will be fully operational. The sheriff also gave assurances that the full-time forestry and recreational officer will soon be staffed.

LEFT: The law enforcement officers who gathered at the roundtable in Siren Thursday, Feb. 4, have a combined 135 years of local law enforcement experience. Shown (L to R) are Siren Police Chief Chris Sybers, Grantsburg Police Chief Jeff Schinzing, Burnett County Sheriff Ron Wilhelm, St. Croix Tribal Police Chief Frank Taylor and Webster Police Chief Mike Spafford. - Photos by E. Royal Emerson

LED bulbs to light Village of Siren

Police statistics show crime citations on the decline

Laurie Broome asked the board if the district had any curriculum to help staff and students deal with mental-health issues. Story on facing page.

E. Royal Emerson | Staff writer SIREN - The Siren Village Board announced it is moving ahead with its plan to convert its 38 streetlights to LED illuminated bulbs. The village board met on Thursday, Feb. 4.

Currently, the 38 streetlights within the village proper utilize traditional-wattage-type bulbs. The ballasts on these traditional lights are reaching the end of their life expectancy. Such ballasts are bypassed when LED bulbs are used. The cost to change over the existing ballasts would be $250 for each light. By moving to LED bulbs the cost to replace the ballasts will be forgone.

“They want us to get into the LED world so they are jacking up the prices on the ballasts,” Dave Alden, village president, explained.

LED bulbs have a stated life expectancy of five years but average actual use has been shown to be 10 years. Electricity cost for LED lighting is said to be 25 percent of traditional-wattage bulbs.

The village will be changing over nine of its streetlights with LED bulbs this year and hopes to have the entire village proper illumined in LED over the coming four years.

New fire hall The board approved the site plan for the new fire hall to be constructed this year out on Hwy. 35 and bordering Third Avenue.

The site plan includes a variance allowing the new fire hall to have a setback of 20 feet from Third Avenue. The plan is to have fire trucks pull out on Hwy. 35 and return from fire calls via Third Avenue.

Year-end police report The Siren Police Department provided its year-end summary to the village board. The report details police department activity ranging from the number of cases under investigation to police calls and citations and arrests. A three-year comparison was included.

The report shows the number of citations issued has declined by more than half from the previous year. There were 144 citations issued in 2015, down from

361 citations issued in 2014 and 280 citations in 2013.

The number of arrests has also declined.

Last year the Siren Police made 59 arrests as opposed to 78 arrests in 2013.

Of the 59 arrests made in 2015, seven were for domestic situations, three were for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and eight were for disorderly conduct. All such arrest classifications have declined from previous years.

The report shows 49 thefts or burglary cases reported in 2015, a decline from 53 such cases in 2014, with 47 such cases reported in 2013.

Last year the Siren Police Department had 3,481 calls for service and 13,829 citizen contacts. The department also secured $14,836 in issuance of motor vehicle license registrations.

New office hours The village office will now be open from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Previously the office opened at 8:30 a.m. and closed at 5 p.m. The change in office hours allows the clerk time to pick up her children from school and attend church activities.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Campground expansion denied

Big McKenzie Lake residents protest proposed campground expansion at West Point Resort

E. Royal Emerson | Staff writer BURNETT COUNTY - The county clerk had to rush in to set up more chairs as 25 residents of Big McKenzie Lake packed the Burnett County Land Use Committee meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 2, protesting a proposed expansion of seasonal campsites at West Point Resort.

Big McKenzie Lake is a 1,185-acre lake located on the far eastern edge of Burnett County, near the intersection of CTHs A and E, in the Town of Webb Lake. It has a depth of 71 feet and is one of few walleye and sturgeon lakes in Burnett County.

The West Point Resort and Campground is an older-style resort with a lodge at the lake’s edge and six cabins.

The existing campground, long in operation, is licensed for 20 seasonal campsites and five short-term campsites. The proposed expansion would add 30 additional seasonal campsites for a total of 50.

Seasonal campsites include semipermanent trailer-type homes and recreational vehicles. West Point Resort consists of 16 acres with a significant portion of the site adjoining the traditional residential neighborhood bordering Hill Road and West Point Road.

The proposed expansion requires approval of a conditional use permit by the land use committee. The permit process requires a public hearing.

Eric McCann spoke on behalf of his family, who purchased West Point Resort

David Oberschmid complained of an overproliferation of “Jet Skis and wave boats destroying the shoreline and harassing the loons” and an overfishing of the lake.

“I can’t complain about people coming up to West Point to have a good time, but the problem is it’s a party all of the time with fireworks going off. They have no concern for the lake like us homeowners,” said Kelly Oberschmid.

Another concern raised was that the campsite expansion would increase the number of seasonal trailers and RVs on the site.

“I didn’t buy my cabin to live across the road from a trailer park,” a woman who recently moved to Big McKenzie Lake said. “I don’t want trailers across from my home. I pay big taxes.”

The conditional use permit allowing for the campsite expansion was denied by a Residents of Big McKenzie Lake packed the Burnett County Land Use Committee meeting on 3-2 vote.

“I place a lot of weight on the neighTuesday, Feb. 2, to protest a planned expansion of campsites at West Point Resort. - Photo by E. bors and the concerns of property ownRoyal Emerson ers,” said committee member and county Voices in opposition from their aunt and uncle in May 2014.

Supervisor Brent Blomberg. “They have McCann’s presentation was not well re“We hope to keep West Point as an presented strong arguments concerning awesome family establishment,” McCann ceived, as a dozen residents rose to speak lake quality and I will vote in opposition said to the packed audience. “We don’t in opposition to the proposed campsite to the expansion.” want to change what West Point has been expansion.

As the crowd of residents slowly trickBig McKenzie Lake resident Robert to this community. We simply wish to exled out from the committee room, the McHolman was the first to speak.

He raised pand the campground to make the busiCanns huddled together with their land a number of concerns including increased ness viable.” surveyor.

The McCanns live in Stillwater, Minn., traffic and safety hazards, an increase in “We’re disappointed the commitand “operate a successful family business light and noise and adverse and harmful tee shot us down,” Jason McCann said. impacts to the lake. in Minneapolis,” McCann said.

“We’re not an outside entity just here to “In my opinion this is all about the “We understand how great our locals make money. We are part of the commuare,” McCann stated. “And we celebrate money,” Holman said. “This decision nity. We’ll get together with the powers the community every year with our big should be put off until more residents can that be and make a decision on the next have their say. It should not be made in Fourth of July fireworks display.” steps with the family.” the dead of winter when many residents are gone.”

Jarchow looms large over proposed boathouse regulations Burnett County’s Land Use Committee considers “the bottom end of what is reasonable” E. Royal Emerson | Staff writer BURNETT COUNTY - Having to comply with state shoreland dictates under Act 55, the Burnett County Land Use Committee struck a defiant tone at its meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 2, seeking to craft boathouse construction standards purposely “at the bottom end of what is reasonable,” hoping to discourage such development, even as Act 55 necessitates that counties allow boathouse construction on local lakes.

There has not been a boathouse constructed on any of Burnett County’s 500 lakes for approximately 40 years. Prior to passage of Act 55, construction of such boathouses was prohibited by the county, citing concerns that secondary structures, and their impervious surfaces, would have a detrimental effect on lake quality. Now, under Act 55, the county must allow private property owners to build a boathouse on their lakeshore lot.

Currently, according to Burnett County Zoning Administrator Jason Towne, there are two lakeshore property owners that seek to build a boathouse on their property. The county needs boathouse regulations in place in order for such boathouse construction to commence.

The bottom end of what is reasonable While the state dictate prohibits counties from restricting boathouses, the county maintains its authority to require certain provisions be met prior to issuance of a building permit.

“While we cannot prohibit boathouses, we can regulate them,” said Towne, as he introduced to the committee proposed new boathouse regulations.

“It is a reasonable regulation that is somewhat onerous,” said committee Chairman Maury Miller.

Among the regulations to be imposed upon those lakeshore owners who wish to construct a boathouse on their land, are: Requiring a $500 building permit application fee as well as a site survey that was estimated to cost $1,000.

The Burnett County Land Use Committee struck a defiant tone at its meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 2, seeking to craft boathouse construction standards purposely “at the bottom end of what is reasonable,” hoping to discourage such development, even as Act 55 necessitates that counties allow boathouse construction on local lakes. - Special photo

Limiting the size of the boathouse to 250 square feet.

Prohibiting concrete slabs or foundations, necessitating the boathouse be stick-built.

Limiting windows to 10 square feet on the three sides of the structure that do not face the water and prohibiting windows on the lake-facing side.

Limiting garage access doors to 10 feet in width.

Requiring the boathouse and roof to be earth-tone colors “that shall be muted (dull intensity) and blend with natural landscapes.”

Prohibiting attached decks or patios.

In a note to committee members attached to the proposed boathouse regulations, Towne wrote: “I encourage allowing some windows on the building to prevent the dire need to trench electrical line down to the beach, thusly allowing the individual to have an outdoor light attached to the boathouse.

It should also be noted that some counties are allowing up to 400 square feet in size for the structure. We picked a number at the bottom end of what is reasonable,” Towne’s note to the committee states.

Jarchow looms large State Rep. Adam Jarchow loomed large over the committee discussion, as Jarchow seeks to expand state domain over

Wisconsin lakes with three new “property rights bills” now pending before the state Legislature. Under the provisions of these bills, property owners would be allowed to dredge weed beds and add decks to the flat roofs of boathouses, among other previously prohibited activity.

Act 55 and additional Jarchow bills pending have opened up a wider debate over the proper role of government regulation and when such authority conflicts with private property rights.

For many years the standard of regulation set by the county, and seemingly supported by lake associations and many lakeshore property owners, is to maintain or restore lakes to a near pristine state, with shoreland preserved in a natural condition, uncorrupted by structures such as boathouses, lawns or even yard lights.

Jarchow argues that such restrictions are an overreach of government that improperly impedes upon a property owners ability to utilize and enjoy the lakesh’ore they own.

Jarchow recently released a statement describing his efforts in implementing Act 55 and other property rights bills as an attempt to “reign in the excesses and abuses” of “government bureaucrats” who cause “agony and terror” to property owners by imposing “a command-and-control approach to shoreland

zoning.”

Jarchow believes his legislative actions can restore a balance to lakeshore development. “I believe we can do two things at once – protect lakes and rivers and protect property rights,” the Jarchow statement concludes.

Ending up at a common ground?

Land use committee members received in their mailboxes a two-page letter written by Jarchow dated Jan. 21, addressed to all “County, Village and Town Board and City Council Members” of the 28th Assembly District. Jarchow’s 28th Assembly District includes Polk and areas of Burnett County.

“I would like to take this opportunity to update you on the status of some legislation on which I have been working that may be of interest to you,” writes Jarchow, as he outlines his “property rights package” of pending legislation that would further invalidate local jurisdiction over shoreland and other zoning.

Jarchow notes in his letter that his pending shoreland legislation has the support, or nonopposition, of various municipal groups such as the Wisconsin Towns Association, Wisconsin Counties Association and the League of Wisconsin Municipalities. “In other words, I have no bills pending that any of the municipal groups oppose and three bills that one or more of the groups support,” writes Jarchow, in bold and underlined language.

Jarchow states in his letter that he has made numerous compromises to garner the support from the local municipal groups. “As you know, getting to a good, compromise position on legislation is not easy. It requires a lot of discussion, dialogue and creativity. In the end, you hope to end up at a common ground,” Jarchow’s letter concludes.

Jeff Peterson, who is challenging Jarchow in the upcoming election, has issued a press release labeling Jarchow’s letter as “disingenuous” and an attempt “to elevate his distorted view of private property rights above the rights of communities and neighbors to enact commonsense regulations.”

It is anticipated that Jarchow’s “property rights package” will be voted on by the state Legislature in coming weeks.

The land use committee plans to hold a public hearing on its proposed boathouse regulations at its meeting in March.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

The future of Grantsburg in many pieces

Other topics David Volkmann is proposing a yearround indoor water park behind the motel and restaurant on Hwy. 70 and asked if the board was favorable to the idea. He received a straw poll approval of

system but is fronted by the water main.

The village has requested permission from the Wisconsin Public Service Commission to add a new standby water service fee to all current users and to add a public fire protection charge to all parcels, improved and unimproved. The state’s first response is that all parcels should be charged the same way.

The Grantsburg Public Library had a successful year, head librarian Kristina Kelly-Johnson reported. Total circulation rose from 34,252 to 41,050, children’s material circulation rose 7,000 items to 18,703, and program attendance rose from 2,027 to 3,309. She said that the village bears a larger portion of the library expense because the county only reimburses rural resident user costs at 70 percent of the expense. In 2015 there were 24,276 checkouts by users who live outside the village. At an operating cost of $2.90 per checkout, that results in a cost of service to rural resi-

dents of $70,295 of which the county will reimburse $49,435 under Act 150 funds.

The $20,860 gap is shifted to the village.

The Grantsburg Golf Course had a $3,668 increase in income for 2015, mostly from cart rentals, memberships and beer sales. Total income was $112,233. However, expenses were up $5,833, with a decrease in general operation costs of $5,434 offset by an increase in payroll expenses of $9,336. In all, expenses were $113,453 resulting in a net loss of $1,220 for the year.

ATV use may be allowed on certain village streets under a proposal being considered by the board. Three routes may be approved to give ATV users in rural areas access to village businesses. That proposal will also return to the March meeting.

With that, the five-hour meeting ended.

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Gregg Westigard | Staff writer GRANTSBURG – The future of Grantsburg was the theme of the many topics discussed at a long village board meeting Monday, Feb. 8.

The meeting started with a dialogue on how to develop the riverfront property and ended with talk on ATV use on village streets. In between, there was discussion about tiny houses, a water park and utility charges. The meeting was held in the new community room of the Grantsburg Public Library. All seven board members were present along with village staff and a half a dozen members of the public.

Now that the old factory site along the river behind the post office is in village hands and cleared, the board is starting a community discussion of how best to develop the 2.25-acre property. Village President Glenn Rolloff said the village has a large investment in the land and its use should recover that cost and add to the village tax base while benefiting the community.

“The river is a good asset for the village,” village resident Pam Davies said.

She spoke in favor of uses that would enhance the downtown area and include green space.

Ted Gerber said it is important to have a clear picture of what would need to be done to develop the property and what uses could be allowed on the site. He said the village should make the site as sellable as possible. Gerber added that the village should gather all the ideas, thinking about the area as a whole, and not have people starting off with many individual agendas.

“We are looking for the best project,” Rolloff said. “It must be healthy, above all. We need to increase our tax base to keep up with rising village costs. We want to develop ideas that actually work.”

Rolloff said that the development should not run local businesses out, saying he does not want to see a Walmart there.

The talk focused on doing the development right, not fast. And while those plans are being developed, the village will be looking at temporary uses for the site which now is an animal sanctuary along the river.

the idea and was told to look at the technical details and come back with a more complete request.

Lee Moyer said he is interested in building a “tiny house” for a family member on his property and wanted to know if the village would be in favor of this new concept in living. At present, houses smaller than 300 to 400 square feet do not meet village code. Rolloff said he is intrigued by the thought of environmentally friendly small homes, saying this might be a way to put small nonconforming lots to use. He said it gets away from McMansions and is an appealing idea. There was discussion about parking and a stipulation that the tiny homes should be built to meet new standards and codes. With that, the entire board was fine with the concept and asked Moyer to do some research and come back with more details.

The Grantsburg airport issue may be moving toward a conclusion. The board is considering a resolution that would transfer ownership of the 243-acre property to an aeronautical individual or group who would intend to continue operating the property as a private airport. This follows a letter from Matt Messina, Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics, saying that the airport will soon become an unclassified airport since its aircraft count continues to be below 10 planes. That would result in the loss of annual FAA entitlements of $150,000 starting in 2017.

The village board has been seeking input from the airport users and hangar owners about how to manage the airport, what improvements need to be made and how those improvements should be funded. The major identified expense is the condition of the runway. Messina outlines two options in his letter. The first is a reconstruction at an estimated cost of $1 million, of which the village would pay 5 percent or $50,000. Under that plan, the village would be obliged to keep the airport open for 20 years. The alternative would be a micro surface at an estimated cost of $100,000 with the village paying $5,000 and keeping the airport open for 10 years. The proposed resolution says that further expenditures would be discouraged until the property is transferred.

Board member Diane Barton said she would like to have some of the “phantom pilots” come to a council meeting and say why the airport is not drawing users. Bob Viltz, Siren, a hangar owner, said 15 years of bad news about the Grantsburg airport drives people away.

The board will return to the issue at the March meeting.

The village is looking at options to change its water billing system in order to bill property owners a charge if that property is not connected to the water

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The donation supports the Siren School special education department and is part of the first-annual 0.14K Walk/Run that will be held on Saturday, Feb. 13, in Siren. The event includes cash drawings, bar game tournaments, raffles, live music by Gypsy Wagyn and free sloppy joes, brats and beverage for racers. Registration is $20 and includes a free T-shirt. - Photo by Becky Strabel

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

C O N V E R S A T I O N S

Since 1933

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

An exciting day of ice fishing My son, Mike, my wife, Marilyn, and I were fishing on the north end of Love Lake on Thursday, Feb. 4, around 2 p.m. when quite a ruckus developed on the northwest corner of the lake. There was a lot of yelling from that part of the lake. Soon we could see some individuals running across the lake parallel to the north shore. The person in the lead was yelling “Help, Help!” The two fellows following him were screaming, “Stop, stop, get down on the ground!”

Marilyn asked Mike if he had called the authorities and he said, “They are the authorities.”

As the group drew nearer, Mike

suggested we get to our vehicles and he locked his truck. We were not sure if the lead person was going to head right for us or not. The officers kept giving the fellow orders but all he did was slow down or stop for a moment a couple of times. Finally he stopped about 30 yards just south of our location. The distance of the chase was approximately 300 yards.

The officers moved into position with one of them closing in on the offender and the other one moving slightly between us and the offender.

After numerous attempts to get the offender to lie down on the ground he did comment “there is no ground here.”

At least one of the officers had a weapon out and pointing it at the offender. After a few other orders from the officers, the offender started

opening his jacket. An officer asked him, “What are you reaching for?”

He replied, “I’m just taking my jacket off.” At this point the officers moved in on him, got him to the ground, handcuffed him, picked him up and frisked him. Then they escorted him back to the point where they had started. There was another officer on the ice where this whole episode had started.

The two officers initially involved in the chase need to be commended for their extreme restraint while trying to apprehend the offender.

By the way, the fishing was pretty good!

Merle Meyer Danbury

The Leader welcomes letters to the editor but reserves the right to edit or to reject letters for any reason. Letters should be no longer than 400 words in length and contain the signature, address and telephone number of the author. All letter writers will be limited to one published letter per 30 days, with the exception of rebuttals. The number of exchanges between letter writers will be decided by the editor. Thank-you letters are most appropriately published in specially designed box ads. Vulgarity, racial slurs and other mean-spirited, insulting terms are not allowed. Complaints about businesses and individuals involving private matters will not be published. Letter writers should provide sources when citing facts. Opinions expressed in letters are not those of the newspaper but rather those of the individual, who is solely responsible for the letter’s content. Emailed letters are preferred. Letters may be emailed to leadernewsroom@gmail.com or mailed to Inter-County Leader, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837.

Wisconsin’s workforce is aging

and often young people seem to be moving away. Employers are struggling to find qualified workers.

Consider a news report about the large Georgia Pacific paper mill in Green Bay. Each year about 100 workers, or about 5 percent of the workforce, are retiring.

Unemployment rates in the northeast area around Green Bay are running 0.5 percent below the national average, according to state employment officials.

There appears to be plenty of job openings, but many of the vacancies call for different abilities than they did 20 years ago. More of the jobs require skills and training beyond high school, according to job experts.

The Milwaukee metropolitan area often hears about the difficulty in recruiting and retaining highly skilled college graduates. The talk is often described as a “brain drain” problem.

Regional income levels and community crime statistics have been cited as concerns of those being recruited from distant points for Milwaukee-based jobs.

The worker pinch has also been acute in smaller Wisconsin communities. Duane Ford, the retired president of the Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, cited the issue in

State Capitol Newsletter Matt Pommer a speech.

“One of the biggest challenges for rural communities is the out-migration of our children,” he said, asking whether communities are doing enough to promote themselves.

“How often do we say or imply that the lights are brighter or the grass is greener somewhere else?” he asked, noting that local employers often complain they cannot find enough talented applicants.

“We need to talk early and often to young people about the education, job, entrepreneurial and career opportunities in our hometowns.

“We need to realize that the local retention of young people is not and cannot be the sole responsibility of schools, colleges and universities. Parents, family members, employers and all community members need to be part of the solution,” he said. ‘’We must stop or at least question explicit or implied judgments about the value of work or where the ‘grass might be greener.’ ‘’

WHERE TO WRITE President Barack Obama 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 whitehouse.gov/contact/ Gov. Scott Walker Wisconsin State Capitol Madison, WI 53707 transition@wisconsin.gov Congressman Sean Duffy (7th District) 1208 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 PH: 202-225-3365 U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin 1 Russell Courtyard Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-5653 FAX: 202-25-6942

LETTERS POLICY

Job picture

The Inter-County Leader was established in 1933 by the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association. Read about the cooperative’s history at iccpaonline.com

It’s all right to praise those who go on and get a college education, he suggested, but there should also be three cheers for those in the blue-collar trades.

Smaller rural school districts have struggled with the combination of declining enrollments and reduced state aid. That may convince young families there are better places to educate their families.

Gov. Scott Walker has been urging families and high schools to have young people consider training for technical jobs that don’t require a full four-year liberal arts education.

A package of bills to help pay for getting technical and job-related training is expected to reach the governor’s desk later this month.

Wisconsin has lagged behind other states in earnings. The numbers are higher in neighboring Minnesota and Illinois. Do these statistics play a role in young people taking jobs in other states?

Wisconsin has balked at increasing its minimum wage – something that tends eventually to boost salaries across the board.

Wisconsin also has weakened the union movement by banning new contracts that require workers from joining the union and paying dues.

The minimum-wage stand and union changes were championed by employers. Now their problem is finding workers.

Rep. Adam Jarchow (28th District) Room 19 North, State Capitol.

P.O. Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708 608-267-2365 • 888-529-0028 FAX: 608-282-3628 rep.Jarchow@legis.state.wi.us Rep. Romaine Quinn (75th District) Room 7 West, State Capitol P.O. Box 8953, Madison, WI 53708 608-266-2519 • 888-534-0075 rep.Quinn@legis.wisconsin.gov U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson 2 Russell Courtyard Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-5323 Sen. Janet Bewely (25th District) Room 126 South, State Capitol P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707 608-266-3510 sen.Jauch@legis.state.wi.us Sen. Sheila Harsdorf (10th District) State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 608-266-7745 • 715-232-1390 Toll-free - 800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us Rep. Nick Milroy (73rd District) Room 8 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8953, Madison 53708 rep.milroy@legis.state.wi.us

The Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

JOE HELLER

Informing more than 16,000 readers each week in print and online • leadernewsroom.com

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

C O N V E R S A T I O N S

Email letters to news@leadernewsroom.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Response to Gov. Walker Show me your plans for the following: Increase K-12 funding back to two-thirds level and keep it there. Quit shortchanging public schools. Incentivize the consolidation of school districts in rural areas.

Downward student trend for 10-plus years. We are all doing it now in sports.

We need to do a pilot in Burnett County, keeping the three local school boards in

place for a three- to five-year trial. Integrate more vocational-technical courses into the high schools in rural areas. We need at least 14 courses locally. Build the middle class back up to $35,000 to $100,000 income levels. Mandate K-12 customer satisfaction by surveying parents and graduates one, three and five years after graduation. Public reporting by all districts to all taxpayers.

Taxes. Wisconsin has the sixth-highest

average annual tax burden at $8,975. The sixth lowest is Washington state at $3,823.

We are fourth highest in income tax and fifth highest in property tax. What are your plans to move us from sixth highest to sixth lowest?

Environment. Water, land and air control need to be controlled by each county.

Minimum state control. County rights versus state rights. Government closest to the people works best.

Safety. No gun-free zones posted. It advertises “We are not armed, take me.”

Less federal control and more state, county and local control, if needed. Increase larger fines for no seat belts used, distracted driving and DUIs. It must be very painful.

Rich Hess Trade Lake

Paddlers invited to weeklong Namekagon adventure Enjoy canoeing or kayaking 92 miles of a wild and scenic river ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix River Association is now accepting registrations for their annual river paddle, June 11-17.

The six-day adventure will cover 92 miles of the Namekagon River, from Cable to Danbury. The Namekagon, which feeds into the St. Croix River, is part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a national park.

The registration fee is $375, which covers shuttles, transportation of gear along the route, six nights of camping, evening

educational programs and five meals. The deadline to register is Sunday, May 1. The trip is limited to 80 paddlers and usually fills months in advance. In the past three years about 300 people have participated.

The youngest was 18 months old, and the oldest 87.

“Expect to unplug and reconnect with the natural world,” says Deb Ryun, executive director of the St. Croix River Association. “We do the organizing, all you have to do is show up with your gear and some food and have fun. You’ll challenge yourself, build lasting relationships, see an abundance of wildlife and stunning scenery, and learn more about this wild and scenic river.”

“It’s the friendships, the beauty of the

surroundings and the complete relaxation that I look forward to each time,” says paddler Leta Johnson. “The ability to take time and just enjoy, to laugh, and to understand that what I am really looking for is just outside.”

This year’s journey promises a diverse paddling experience. The Namekagon River is primitive and remote, at times very narrow and wild. Other reaches flow through more populated areas. As it nears the confluence of the St. Croix River, the Namekagon runs wider and slower. The paddle will meet the St. Croix River on the final day.

The 2016 paddle will be the sixth of a tradition started in 2011, when paddlers traveled 17 days down the length of the

St. Croix to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the St. Croix River Association, a nonprofit whose mission is to protect, restore and celebrate the St. Croix River and its watershed.

More information and registration is available on the SCRA Paddles website at scrapaddle.org, including a daily itinerary, a map of the route and lodging options.

Local sponsors who help make the trip possible include Xcel Energy, 45 Degrees, the St. Croix Casino, the Cable Area Chamber of Commerce, the community of Seeley, Wis., Comfort Suites Hayward, Camp Namekagon, Log Cabin Resort in Trego, and the National Park Service.

— from SCRA

State Patrol Law of the Month Drivers must not get within 200 feet of the rear of a snowplow SPOONER - With weeks of winter still to come, motorists should remember that snowplows are built for power, not agility, so they need plenty of space to do their job.

“Most of the collisions between snow-

plows and other vehicles occur when the snowplow is rear-ended,” said Lt. Dori Petznick, of the Wisconsin State Patrol Northwest Region. “Snowplows may have to slow down or stop suddenly if they encounter an obstacle, like a stuck or stalled vehicle. When visibility is poor, you might not see the snowplow’s taillights until it’s too late. To avoid rear-end collisions, you have to slow down and stay back at least 200 feet from the rear of the snowplow.”

According to state law it is illegal to “follow a snowplow closer than 200 feet on any highway having a posted speed limit of more than 35 mph if the snowplow is engaged in highway winter maintenance snow and ice removal.”

A citation for violating this law costs $175.30 with three demerit points assessed on the driver’s license. A second or subsequent offense within a year costs $213.10 with an additional three demerit points.”

Petznick added, “If you approach an oncoming snowplow on a two-lane road, it’s wise to slow down and proceed with caution because the snow blowing from the plow may limit your visibility.”

With their power and size, snowplows can clear paths for motorists even in the most extreme weather conditions. In return, drivers can help snowplows perform this important traffic-safety task by giving them room to maneuver. — from WisSP

Third grade Jerome McGeshick, Hudsyn McKnight, Louis Oiyotte, Layla Porter, Cameryn Ritchey, Patricia St. John and Taylor Winberg.

McGeshick, Alex Pierce, Kateri St. John and Nathan Thiex.

Siren elementary perfect attendance Kindergarten Annalee Benjamin, Jackson Collins, Nolan Herwick, Dane LeClair, Claire Meyer, Miles Pearson, Kaleb Schmidt and Emma Swanson.

First grade Spencer Boyd, Mitchell Hobbie and Lucy Peter-

son.

Second grade Faith Harrison, Waylon Meyer, Vincent Mykkanen, Kiersen Oustigoff, Wyatt Rightman, Brooke Simon and Kaiden Xurvein.

Fourth grade Paige Balluff-Huntley, Logan Berglind, Joseph

Fifth grade Rebekah Dugger, Derek Thiex and Nicholas Webster.

Jarchow works the morning rush at Julia’s Java MILLTOWN - On Friday, Feb. 5, instead of sitting behind his desk in the state Capitol, Rep. Adam Jarchow, R-Balsam Lake, was serving coffee to patrons at Julia’s Java in Milltown. As part of his Working With You Days, Jarchow worked the entire morning on the busiest day of the week at Julia’s Java. During his time there, he poured coffee, served customers and cleared tables.

Julia Amrhien opened Julia’s Java in July 2010 in a small 8-foot by 10-foot kiosk, which was parked at her current location on the corner of Hwy. 35 and 170th Street in Milltown. As of August 2014, Amrhien upgraded to a freestanding building and currently employs six people.

When asked why she wanted to open a coffee shop, Amrhein said, “I have wanted to open a coffee shop since I was 20 years old. I have always had a passion for it. After experiencing a loss in my life, I realized that I wasn’t satisfied with my job, and I was going to go and pursue what I wanted to do.”

Amrhein is proud of her business and its success. The shop has been increasing in business every year. When asked about what she likes most about owning a small business in Milltown, Amrhein said, “The people in Milltown are loyal; we have fantastic customers. I think we have a great product and, because of that, people come to Milltown just to get a cup of coffee. I hope that when they come to Milltown, they go patronize the other businesses down the road, too. If they succeed, I succeed, and vice versa.” Amrhein added, “I really appreciate Rep. Jarchow coming and spending time at the coffee shop. It is really nice that he took the time to not just stop in and snap a picture, but he actually worked.”

Jarchow commented on his day at Julia’s Java saying, “I had a great day working with Julia and her staff. They really care about their customers and providing a superior product. It shows in everything they do. Julia is the true definition of the American dream. She started her business from nothing and found success doing some-

thing she loves. I am so happy that there are people, especially in northwestern Wisconsin, who are willing to take that kind of risk. If you’re driving through Milltown, make sure to stop in and grab a cup of coffee. You will not be disappointed.”

Jarchow represents the 28th Assembly District which consists of parts of St. Croix, Polk and Burnett counties.

– from the office of Rep. Jarchow

Rep. Adam Jarchow serves a customer at Julia’s Java in Milltown on Friday, Feb. 5. As part of his Working With You Days, Jarchow poured coffee, served customers and cleared tables. Working With You Days is part of a monthly series where he works a full shift at a business in the 28th Assembly District.

RIGHT: Rep. Adam Jarchow assists Julia Amrhein, of Julia’s Java in Milltown, during the morning rush on Friday, Feb. 5. - Photos submitted.

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

District attorney, county clerk, treasurer and register of deeds Gregg Westigard | Staff writer BURNETT/WASHBURN/POLK COUNTIES – The terms of four elected county officials are up this year and all four offices will be on the November bal-

Steffen and Nissen running, Wondra and Anderson retiring Gregg Westigard | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE – Two of the four Polk County officials up for election this fall will be seeking re-election and two will be retiring. District Attorney Dan Steffen

Four county offices up this year

lot. The district attorney, county clerk, county treasurer and register of deeds positions are all four-year terms elected on partisan ballots. That means that a candidate files for office under a party label. The filing period for the fall election starts April 15, and ends June 1. During that time candidates must register and collect from 200 to 400 signatures on their nomination papers to get on the ballot.

If more than one candidate files for of-

fice under either party label, Republican or Democrat, an Aug. 9 primary will reduce the field to a single candidate for each party. People can file as independents and gain November ballot access.

The salaries of the four positions are established for the entire terms before the start of the election period. The county boards must approve the yearly salaries of the county clerk, treasurer and register of deeds for 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020

before the April 15 date. Those salaries cannot be changed until the next election cycle starts in 2020. The district attorney is a state employee whose salary is set by the state based on the population of the county.

See separate stories for the re-election plans for the incumbents in each county.

Polk County fall elections and county treasurer Amanda Nissen have each told the Leader that they are running again. County clerk Carole Wondra and register of deeds Laurie Anderson are each retiring at the end of their terms next January. Filing for the four offices starts April 15. The fall election date is Nov. 8. All the offices have four-year terms.

Steffen was elected in 2006 and reelected in 2008 and 2012. He first came

to office by defeating incumbent District Attorney Karen Smith in the 2006 Democratic Party primary.

Nissen was appointed Polk County treasurer in the spring of 2003 after longtime treasurer David Anderson resigned.

She was elected as treasurer in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2012. The offices became fouryear terms in 2008.

Anderson was appointed register of deeds in the fall of 2003 when Bonnie

Hallquist resigned. She was also elected in 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2012.

Wondra was elected county clerk in 2008, running for an open office when Cathy Albrecht retired. Wondra won the September 2008 Democratic Party primary and had no opposition in the November election that year. She was reelected in 2012.

All four incumbents ran as Democrats in 2012.

Polk County to set elected officials salaries in March

Compensation set for four years

Gregg Westigard | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE - The offices of Polk County clerk, treasurer and register of deeds will be filled in the November election, but that selection process starts in March when the Polk County board determines the salaries for the three po-

sitions for the four years of their terms.

Salaries of elected officials cannot be changed during their terms of office and must be set before the start of the election season, April 15, the first day candidates for the fall election can start collecting signatures on their nomination papers.

Polk County has been setting the same salary for the county clerk, treasurer and register of deeds positions since the 2006 term, when the salaries were $48,000 a year. The last adjustment was made in

2012 for the 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 terms. The 2016 salary for each office is $56,256 and has increased 1.5 percent each year since 2012. The officials also receive the same benefits as other county employees.

From 2006 through 2008 the clerk of court also received the same salary. Starting in 2009, the salary for that position was $250 a year more than the other three offices. That gap is now $558 a year due to the percentage increases on top of the

base salary. The clerk of court salary, set in 2014 for the next four-year term, is $56,814 in 2016 and will be $57,666 in 2017.

The sheriff’s salary is also set for the four-year term and is now $85,944 for 2016 and $87,233 for 2017.

The salary of the district attorney is set by and paid by the state.

UWEX reorganization planning is under way SIREN - The University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension has released its first draft of a reorganization plan to address a significant budget cut in the most recent state of Wisconsin Budget. UWEX is the outreach arm of the University of Wisconsin and provides educational services to local citizens in the areas of 4-H youth development, community and economic development, natural resources, Master Gardener program, agriculture and family living. The cut from state sources totals $3.6 million. The organization also receives funding from the federal government and county government.

The draft reorganization plan has yet to be adopted by Chancellor Cathy Sandeen.

It allocates budget reductions proportionally to three areas of the organization. When it comes to county positions, more sharing of agents/educators across county lines will occur. A draft area map for sharing agents on a multicounty level has been developed. These draft multicounty areas will be the framework for sharing agents across county lines.

At a recent stakeholder meeting that included the Burnett County Board of

Supervisors and local nonprofit organizations, UWEX Northwest Regional Director Julie Keown-Bomar further explained the proposal and answered questions. Supervisors shared their concerns regarding specific staffing and county-level spending requests. “We are asking that counties maintain the same funding levels for the 2017 budget cycle,” said Keown-Bomar.

She noted that the approach in the draft plan implements across the state what has been happening in Burnett County for years. For over 20 years, two agriculture agents serve three counties, Burnett, Washburn and Sawyer. And more recently, the 4-H Youth Development and Family Living positions were combined.

The reorganization plan takes this approach statewide. Keown-Bomar noted that staff reductions are close to where they are needed to be. Over the last year, open positions have been left unfilled to begin meeting the budget reduction. She finished by saying more detailed plans will be determined by July 1. – from Burnett County UW-Extension

Tribes voice concern over proposed changes to lake, wetland regulations Bill’s author says measure is meant to protect rights of property owners Danielle Kaeding | WPR Radio MADISON - Wisconsin tribes are speaking out against a bill that proposes a long list of changes to state laws regulating lakes and wetlands.

Wild rice was a chief concern among

tribes at at the Thursday, Feb. 4, meeting of the Voigt Intertribal Task Force. Vice Chair Mic Isham said a 1983 federal court ruling known as the Voigt Decision recognized tribes treaty rights to hunt, fish and gather in ceded territories. Isham said the bill, which would ease restrictions on filling wetlands and dredging along lakefronts, ignores those rights and would harm wild rice habitats.

“In the ruling, it said you can’t legislate away treaty rights,” he said. “You also

Voigt Task Force Vice Chair Mic Isham addresses the gathering of tribes at the Voigt Intertribal Task Force meeting Thursday, Feb. 4. - Danielle Kaeding/WPR

can’t do with the land what would essentially have the same effect. There’s always give and take with that. But, to me, this would have that effect.”

A spokesman for the bill’s author, Republican Rep. Adam Jarchow, said they haven’t been contacted by any tribes about the bill. Jarchow has said the bill protects property owner’s rights.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

Planning under way for Frederic Family Days

Committee seeks reinstatement of village funding for fireworks

thing the village can give would be much appreciated, she said.

Funding for the 2017 fireworks will be discussed during the budget process this fall.

Mary Stirrat | Staff writer FREDERIC — Snow and cold temperatures prove that winter still has a firm grip on this area, but it’s not too early to make plans for summer activities.

That’s what happened at the Monday, Feb. 8, meeting of the Frederic village board, where discussion centered on this summer’s Frederic Family Days. Sally Miller, of The Rose Garden Floral and Greenhouse, represented the chamber of commerce to talk with the board about needed permits and future funding for the fireworks.

Miller started by informing the board that a new Frederic Family Days committee has been established. It goes beyond the chamber of commerce, she said, to include people who do not own a business.

“We’re trying to get more community involvement,” said Miller, “not just business owners.”

Scheduled for June 17-19, this year will mark the 51st Family Days celebration. Miller said that eventually the chamber of commerce would apply for permits to close the street for events, sell beer, shoot off fireworks and more.

For now, she asked the board to consider helping to fund the fireworks display. Other Family Days events generate revenue, she said, but the fireworks are something that is simply done at the expense of the chamber. The fireworks are a huge draw, she added, as she asked that the village consider including some money in the budget for them.

Meanwhile, she said, any amount of money would help.

“Historically,” said Trustee Brad Har-

Audit report Phernetton presented an overview of the findings of the 2014 audit, saying that the auditor will begin the 2015 audit in a few weeks and will be on hand to answer any questions at that time.

There were three issues pointed out by the auditor, she said, which have been addressed. First is segregation of duties, so that one person does not take financial transactions from start to finish. With the hiring of village clerk Janice Schott, said Phernetton, this will no longer be an issue.

Secondly, she said, is that bank statements were not being reconciled in a timely manner in 2014. This has been corrected, Phernetton told the board.

Finally, the auditor noted that meeting minutes were incomplete. Things like motions to approve pay raises, monthly disbursements, and the opening and closing of bank accounts were not always recorded.

From now on, she said, there will be a separate agenda item to care for these things.

Sally Miller, owner of the Rose Garden, spoke to the Frederic Village Board regarding the 2016 Frederic Family Days. — Photo by Mary Stirrat lander, “the village always did contribute to the fireworks.”

This didn’t happen last year, said Miller, and village treasurer Jennifer Phernetton said that none is included in the 2016 budget. Discussions during the budget process included paying for half the cost of the fireworks, about $1,500, but this didn’t actually get into the budget.

Miller said that they plan to use the same fireworks company as last year. They initially had a budget of $3,000 but another $500 came in through buckets placed at area businesses. Buckets will be put out earlier this year, she said.

“The more money we can raise the longer the fireworks will be,” she said.

Business owners are “hit up” for everything, she said, and they will again be asked to contribute to the fireworks. Any-

Police news Police Chief Dale Johnson reported that January was a pretty average month for the department, with the exception of helping Polk County with a theft and another department with a dognapping case.

He reminded residents of the need to post house numbers so that emergency services such as fire, ambulance and police can easily locate the home if necessary. It was noted that, with Valentine’s Day around the corner, house numbers

also make it easier to deliver flowers.

The no-parking ordinance is in effect, said Johnson, prohibiting cars to be parked on the street between 3 and 6 a.m.

Finally, he said, snowmobiles need to stick to the designated trails. Roads can be used to get from a residence to a trail or from a trail to a business, but snowmobiles are not allowed to operate on people’s yards.

Other business • Board members thanked public works director Ken Hackett and his crew for their efficient cleanup after the Coon Lake Classic the last weekend in January. Discussion included how to better promote the event and the cost of advertising.

• Park board Chairman William Johnson IV distributed copies of the new Polk County Visitor Guide and the publication Growing Wisconsin, which is published by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

• Schott and Phernetton presented two copies of the village fee schedule, one from 2010 and one with an unknown date. The board directed them to combine the two and talk with surrounding villages to determine if Frederic’s fees are in line.

• The village website has been updated and, while still in process, has a great deal of information on it, said Schott. She has also developed a village Facebook page, which goes live Tuesday, Feb. 9.

• Village President Jim Meyer urged board members to attend a Monday, March 21, meeting at the fire hall, where the village emergency response plan will be discussed and training will take place. Fire Chief Brian Daeffler is heading up the preparedness efforts, and training will be presented at various locations during the upcoming months. “It’s very important,” said Meyer.

Milltown welcomes new library director

Assistance for water/ wastewater projects explored

Mary Stirrat | Staff writer MILLTOWN — The regular monthly meeting of the Milltown Village Board held Monday, Feb. 8, was a short one, but it included the introduction of the new director of the Milltown Public Library.

Currently, said Bea Volgren, she and her staff are working on this summer’s lineup of movies in the park and other summer programming.

“The staff is amazing,” she told the board. “They have been really instrumental in getting me up to speed.”

Volgren is a native of the area who returned in 2014 after spending 20 years in the Twin Cities area. The 1994 Unity graduate now has a daughter in first grade at that same school.

“I wanted to come back to my roots,” said Volgren, “and I wanted (my daughter) to be involved in the community I grew up in.”

Her job at the library, she said, is a perfect fit. “I love being involved with people of all ages, from 2 to 102,” she said.

“I am passionate about this community and being part of it, lighting a fire for people. We’ll be developing a collection and programming at Milltown for people of all ages and interests.”

Volgren’s work history is varied, starting at age 13 when she became a nanny for a family with a place at Balsam Lake.

She went on to graduate from UW-La-

there were six applicants. She was interviewed Jan. 18, offered the job Jan. 19, and on the job Jan. 20.

Her daughter, Tya, can also be found at the library many days after school. “She takes her job as library director’s daughter very seriously,” said Volgren. “She loves it.”

Noting that the library is much more than a place to check out books and movies, Volgren said, “I have a passion for outreach. We really want to reach out to the community, and create an environment for readers and nonreaders alike.

“If people have something they want to see, please bring it to our attention.”

Bea Volgren is the new director at Milltown Public Library. – Photo by Mary Stirrat Crosse, manage an amusement park and several hotels, nanny some more, then got involved in real estate in the Twin Cities area.

When her daughter reached school age, however, Volgren moved back to the Unity community. “I wanted to come home,” she said. “This is where I want to raise my family.”

For the past year and a half she has been commuting to Mendota Heights, Minn., and was very excited to see a job advertisement for a position in the community she loves, doing what she loves.

The deadline for submitting applications for the position was Jan. 12, and by Jan. 11

Public works Public works director Mike Nutter reported that he needed to buy a new sidewalk sweeper for the skid steer. The old one, he said, “was losing pieces.”

The replacement cost $650. “It was the cheapest one I could find,” he told the board. “Most are about $900.”

The old sweeper was 3 years old.

“Snow and ice are hard on it,” he added.

Nutter and village clerk/treasurer Amy Albrecht discussed the assistance that is available through the Wisconsin Community Action Program, particularly for planning and finding funding for water and wastewater projects.

The nationwide, federally funded program provides services, training and technical assistance to rural communities to address issues related to drinking water or wastewater.

According to a letter sent to Nutter, the Rural Community Assistance Program

is working on a project intended to address high water loss due to older, leaking water mains, along with the potential threat to water quality and health due to lack of chemical disinfectants in the water.

One of the projects in the village’s fiveyear plan, anticipated for 2019, is to work on the sanitary sewer line at the mobile home park. This, according to discussion, could be an opportunity to take advantage of WisCAP’s services, especially since Milltown does not use chemicals such as chlorine in its water.

Individuals from WisCAP are willing to come to Milltown to discuss wastewater issues and potential projects to address those issues, as well as grant funding that might be available.

“It’s something for us to look at,” said Nutter. He said he would see if Wesley Hoem, rural development specialist with WisCAP, would be available to come to the March board meeting to answer questions.

Other business • The board approved a beer and liquor license for Stacy Irwin at Lumber Jack’s Saloon & Pizzeria, which will open March 28.

• The board approved the attendance of Nutter at the Wisconsin Rural Water Association conference in Green Bay in March, at a cost of $170 plus transportation and hotel. “I went two years ago,” he said, “and learned a ton. I also get credits for it.”

Unity FFA hosts 20th-annual ice-fishing contest Saturday

CENTURIA - The Unity FFA Alumni is hosting its 20th-annual ice-fishing contest on Long Lake near Centuria this Saturday, Feb. 13, from 9 a.m. To 2 p.m.

“For 20 years our FFA alumni has sponsored their ice-fishing contest providing not only a great outdoor event, but an opportunity for FFA members to get involved in volunteering to help with the

event,” said Jeanne Alling, Unity FFA adviser.

The event has had a following of numerous people in the area over the years, some are now bringing their kids, too.

Four years ago the high school ice-fishing teams also started their competition as a part of the event. Last year, in 30 below wind chill, some of the teams that came

included Webster, New Richmond and Prescott.

“It is a great experience for youth to find out the excitement of waiting for the flag to soar and the eagerness to see what will come through the ice hole. It keeps the kids adrenalin flowing,” Alling said.

The contest is open for anyone to participate. Area businesses also donate door

prizes in addition to cash awards for the largest fish in four designated categories.

For more information visit the Unity Area FFA Alumni page on Facebook. - with submitted information

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Dresser board hires a hiring firm

Lack of candidates for office position leads to using an employment firm

Greg Marsten | Staff writer DRESSER - The Dresser Village Board chose to hire an employment service to help them fill the vacant assistant office worker position, after they had a hard time finding the right match for the job in their own search.

The decision came about at the board’s regular monthly meeting on Monday, Feb. 1, where they heard a brief presentation by Bill Theis, of Express Employment, St. Croix Falls. He said they have several ways of filling the vacancy, including using Express as the agency that would essentially be the employer, if the village wants a temporary worker.

But after some discussion, the board decided to go with a direct-hire process.

“We will do all the recruiting,” Theis said. “With a tiny fee at the end.”

He said the firm will do the prescreening, skills testing, drug testing and any reference checks required for the position, then they will present their final candidates to the village for their own interviews or eventual hiring.

way,” Theis said.

While the firm usually charges 20 percent of the final salary, Theis said they would offer the village a break at a $500 flat fee, instead of what would normally be a $2,000 to 3,000 fee.

“With the lack of interest in the original pool (of prospective candidates),” village President Bryan Beseler stated. “This seems like a bargain.”

The board approved the Express Employment proposal unanimously.

Bill Theis, of Express Employment, made the Dresser Village Board an offer they couldn’t refuse on filling a vacant office position. - Photo

by Greg Marsten “We’ll give (the village) the top candidates, with all the background out of the

In other board actions: • The board took no action yet on how to address the resignation of their new library director, Susan Stepka, who has accepted a position in Somerset as an assistant librarian.

Stepka has presented several possible options for filling the vacancy, including her possibly working part time or as in interim director.

Due to the possible changes, the board did not accept her resignation, and will let the library board look closer at the offer and make a recommendation.

• The board approved having board President Bryan Beseler address their vacant building inspector position, and they allowed him to approve a new inspector hire, if they have a candidate who would

be willing to use the village’s existing building inspection fee contracts. If not, the hire must go before the full board for approval, as it would also require a fee change and official action.

• The board voted to proceed with bidding on a water looping project on Polk Avenue.

The project is meant to loop the water mains at the Silver Ridge development, and would require about 240 feet of new line and underground work.

An engineering firm has submitted a proposal for the loop project, and it has gone to the state for approval. Once it is approved the village would have two years to complete the project.

The loop would likely also include the need to replace a 50-year-old fire hydrant, and all together should cost between $15,000 and $18,000, with the new hydrant adding approximately $3,000 to the final bill.

• The board approved hiring Dave and Carmen Brian to clean the Dresser Community Hall, for $75 per hall rental.

The duo had been involved in cleaning the hall in the past, as part of the Neighborhood Watch group that had been in charge of the hall maintenance.

SCF city looks closer at fire department’s needs

Budgets, equipment and volunteer payments addressed

Greg Marsten | Staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix Falls Common Council addressed several issues of budgeting, maintenance costs and more involving the city’s fire department, as they reviewed a new type of monthly report from the department at their Monday, Feb. 8, meeting.

The new report will show the time involved with each incident, as the current system only shows when the department was paged by 911 dispatchers to when they were cleared for the scene by the dispatchers.

In reality, there is more time involved, after the fact, according to fire officials.

“There are reports to be filled out, clean- up, vehicle (resetting) and much more that’s not included (in the current time reports),” stated Capt. Jim Finnegan St. Croix Falls Library Director Sarah Adams (right) explained the 2015 annual counts and report of the fire department. to the common council on Monday, Feb. 8. On the left is city clerk Bonita Leggitt. - Photo by Greg Mayor Brian Blesi pointed to the need Marsten for the council to realize the true time dedicated by each volunteer, and wanted equipment replacement schedules easier cluding the hire of Martha Kaempffer, that time reflected in their monthly re- to plan over the five- or 10-year incre- who replaces Cole Zrostlik, as the new ports. ments. youth services librarian. She will work 34 “Bottom line is, that’s time away from “That makes it easier in your budget hours weekly, and just started this Monhome,” Blesi said. process, as well as for us,” Finnegan said. day, Feb. 8.

Technically, the firefighters are paid, Blesi said the council should address Adams said the 2015 annual report on-call city employees. They receive at a variety of fire department issues in the showed a few trends, including more digleast one hour of pay for a run, but they coming months, including how they han- ital media requests and access, partially may have over 2.5 hours involved in the dle fire inspection costs and budgeting, as offsetting a small drop in circulation. incident. well as fixed outlays for equipment and She also pointed to several issues that Finnegan said that if there is an ex- replacement, possibly by looking closer at should be addressed in the city’s emtended fire event, the firefighters are paid the final 2015 outlays versus the approved ployee manuals, such as how to deal with a flat fee for the first hour, with an hourly 2015 budget. health benefit information, or lack thereof. rate after that. Wisconsin does not have “Let’s look at that more in March, so we “It needs to be more clear,” Adams a retirement program for firefighters, un- can see where we actually fell (on the ac- said. “It also leads to (benefit) confusion ... like Minnesota, which does pay slightly tual 2015 budget),” Blesi said. it creates a sort of vacuum of authority.” less than Wisconsin.

The council took no action, but appreciThe council agreed that the employee “Annual (fire department) payroll is ated the additional fire department infor- manual needs to have several issues reabout $52,000 a year,” Finnegan said. mation monthly reports. solved, and they plan to address those “With probably just as many unpaid (volconcerns in the coming months. unteer) hours.”

• The board approved the placement of In other council business: The council discussed ways to make • Library director Sarah Adams out- a banner for the upcoming Million March the annual budgeting more relevant than lined several changes at the library, in- Against Child Abuse, set for April 2 in the in the past, and they hoped to make their city, at a location to be determined.

The event may have as many as 300 people attending and is the third such event of its kind in the city.

• The council did discuss their building inspector vacancy with local inspector Cliff Manwiller, although they took no action on hiring anyone.

Manwiller explained how he does his contracts and fee schedules, noting that if the city hires him, they would likely need to agree to his fees by resolution. The city will draft a contract and have their attorney review it before they make a hiring decision.

• The council approved transferring the Festival Theatre Company’s beer and wine license from the Civic Auditorium to their “new” temporary location at Franklin Square.

• The council approved a new 2106 Teamsters Union contract, which due to state changes, allows them very little applicable action, except to base wages.

• The council spent quite awhile debating how to address possible Health Savings Account contributions for employees.

At issue was whether to make the onetime contribution and how much to apply to each employee, if they do.

The city has not made an HSA employee contribution for three years, according to Blesi.

But Alderperson Lori Erickson was not convinced they had enough information to make a final decision, quite yet.

“I’d really like more information, before we start handing out benefits,” Erickson said.

While the city has budgeted for an HSA contribution, the council discussed the issue at length, but moved to delay a decision until the end of March, when they have more information on the issue.

• The council approved changing their next regular monthly meeting to Monday, Feb. 22, instead of Feb. 29, to allow for more timely action on several issue with the Vincent/Maple Street projects and grant applications, which needed earlier considerations.

Vote in the primary election Feb. 16

Only one contested judicial contest in 2016

Gregg Westigard | Staff writer STATEWIDE - The only contested judicial contest in 2016 is the election of a justice on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, but that race will involve an areawide primary election Tuesday, Feb. 16. The only

other contests in our area on that date are primaries for the Shell Lake City Council and the Spooner School Board. There is an uncontested election for the District 3 Court of Appeals and several municipal judges are up for election.

Three candidates are running for the Supreme Court seat, Rebecca Bradley, Joe Donald and Joanne Kloppenburg.

The three had announced for the race last fall in the anticipation that Justice Patrick

Crooks would retire. Crooks died last fall while still on the court, and Gov. Scott Walker appointed Bradley to the vacant position. The February primary will reduce the field to two names for the Tuesday, April 5, ballot.

Thomas Hruz is running unopposed for the court of appeals seat he was appointed to in 2014.

There is a municipal judge contest for the court that serves Amery and the Town

and village of Clear Lake. Jerome Wittstock is not seeking another term on that court, and Chelsea Whitley is the only candidate for the position.

Three other municipal judges serving single municipalities are also up for election this spring. They are Andrew Lawton, Spooner; Brian Spears, Webster; and David Danielson, St. Croix Falls.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

Coining positive change Priscilla Bauer | Staff writer GRANTSBURG – Grantsburg Elementary and Nelson Primary School students and staff spent the week of Feb. 1-5 collecting coins for positive change.

“Our school is just starting Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, a program focusing on positive behaviors we see from students,” said Grantsburg Elementary Principal Elizabeth Olson.

Olson said the chance to partner with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Bring the Change, a Spirit Week and coin drive that will make change in the fight against cancer fit right into the program.

“Part of the PBIS initiative is finding ways to give back, locally and globally,” explained Olson. “This fundraiser was the perfect opportunity for our students to learn about how cancer has affected not only our community, but the rest of the world.”

“I wanted to show the kids someone from their own community who has been through this to make the fundraising more personal,” commented Olson.

So Olson invited Grantsburg High School student Sawyer Coy, who is now in remission from Burkitt’s lymphoma and his mother, Stacy, and Little Pirate teacher Beth Bartlett, (who created a PowerPoint presentation chronicling her daughter’s cancer battle) to talk with GES classes about their experiences with the disease, thereby giving a local connection to the students’ fundraising efforts.

“Sawyer told the kids about what he went through, about being in the hospital for those four or five months, what chemotherapy is, how it was losing his hair, etc.,” noted Olson. “He also showed them photos from the hospital with different doctors and nurses and some of the animals brought in for animal therapy with patients.”

Two weeks before the start of the coin collection week students brought home a coin box to collect money and return on the week of Feb. 1.

Fun themes during the collection drive included Pajama Pennies, Neon Nickels, Dazzling Dimes and Crazy Quarters days. The week ended with Team Spirit Day. Students were also given a fun challenge as an incentive to collect more coins. K-3 physical education instructor Andy Richardson agreed to be duct-taped to both schools gym walls and to also have a pie thrown in his face, dependent upon how much each classroom raised.

Classes raising a total of $25 garnered each student a long piece of duct tape to attach to Richardson, classes raising a total of $50 gave each student a turn throwing a ball at Richardson, and if a class raised a total of $300 the classroom teacher was given a pie to throw in his face.

A total of $3,000.44 was raised for leukemia and lymphoma research, $2,2029.60 by Grantsburg Elementary students and $970.84 by Nelson School students.

The kids did a great job,” proclaimed Olson of the students’ efforts.

Check out the impressive amounts raised by the GES and Nelson classes.

Ryan Hoffman showed off the piece of duct tape he would soon be attaching to physical education teacher Andy Richardson.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Classroom Katie Melin Brenda Alden Nell Polzine Andrea Nightengale Ashely Briggs Julie Lee Angie Anderson Amanda Melin Beth Bartlett AM Beth Bartlett Billie Rengo Barb Anderson Barb Anderson EC Sarah Wald Office Chandra Stafford Andrea McNutt Julie Fiedler Heather Vilstrup Paige Kerfeld

Total raised 89.37 185.57 167.70 793.39 159.33 202.29 106.21 114.40 127.75 119.29 123.63 124.46 19.40 45.58 11.16 90.14 237.07 78.30 77.78 127.62

GES total Nelson total

2,029.60 970.84

TOTAL

3,000.44

Grantsburg High School student Sawyer Coy, who is now in remission from Burkitt’s lymphoma, and his mother, Stacy, talked with GES classes about his cancer experience, giving a local connection to students’ fundraising efforts.

Mrs. Lee’s Nelson Primary kindergarten class collected enough coins to win her the chance to put a pie in Mr. Richardson’s face.

Andy Richardson was literally up against the wall after Grantsburg Elementary School students completely covered him with duct tape as part of the school’s fundraiser for leukemia and lymphoma.

Andy Richardson took getting a pie to the face in stride during the all school assembly held at the end of the weeklong fundraiser for leukemia and lymphoma by Grantsburg Elementary and Nelson School students.

Mrs. Polzine’s class waited excitedly for their taping turn.

Ms. Nightengale’s class of first-graders raised the most money, $793.39, during the Grantsburg Elementary School’s weeklong Bring the Change Spirit Week and coin drive for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Snowshoeing fun for families BURNETT COUNTY- The Burnett County Family Resource Center, Crex Meadows and the National Park Service hosted a morning of snowshoeing for families. There was a snowshoe scavenger hunt, National Park Bingo, hot chocolate and home-baked goodies. - submitted

Photos submitted

Leland Snyder poses with NPS Park Ranger Branda Thwaits.

Pam McCormick and her son, Tyler, pose for a photo with Alicia Dickenson and her daughter, Charlotte.

Chris Darsow with her granddaughter, Naveah.

Kylie Anderson, at 2 years old, was the littlest one on snowshoes. She gets a break from her mom.

The group heads out on the trail.

Luck Community Ed plans day trip LUCK - On Thursday, March 10, Luck Community Education has scheduled a bus trip to Chippewa Falls and Menomonie. They will enjoy a guided tour of Leinenkugel’s brewery and learn about beer brewing spanning nearly 150 years and six generations of Leinenkugel family history. They will also spend time in the Leinie Lodge which is filled with historical photos, vintage equipment and collectibles to take home.

Samples and a souvenir glass are included with the tour.

The group will hop back on the motorcoach bus and trek over to Menomonie’s historic Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts. Named one of 15 Spectacular Theaters in the World by CNN Travel, the memorial theater was constructed in 1889 during the grand Victorian era, and no expense was spared. Throughout the tour, participants will be

in awe of the entire building including the architecture, marble staircase and floors, leaded stained-glass windows, walnut and oak woodwork, brass fixtures, four unique fireplaces, the 251-seat “crown jewel” Victorian theater and the original pipe organ with 1,597 pipes ranging from 2 inches to 16 feet. Menus from several restaurants in the two-block radius will be available on the bus for each person to choose their own lunch.

The registration deadline to reserve a spot on the bus is Monday, Feb. 29. The cost for the trip is $35 which covers transportation and the tours. A minimum of 30 people is required to run this trip, with a maximum of 45. Bus pickups will be scheduled in St. Croix Falls, Centuria, Luck and Cumberland. Contact Amy Aguado, Luck Community Education director, at 715-472-2152, ext. 103, or amya@lucksd.k12.wi.us to register or for more information. – from Luck Community Ed

Luck Community Education has scheduled a day trip on Thursday, March 10, to the Leinie Lodge in Chippewa Falls. - Photos submitted.

The Luck Community Education day trip scheduled for Thursday, March 10, includes a tour of the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts in Menomonie.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

WinterNationalfest week celebrated at Grantsburg High School Priscilla Bauer | Staff writer GRANTSBURG - Grantsburg High School students enjoyed a week of fun afternoon assemblies in the school’s auditorium during the second annual WinterNationalfest held Feb. 1-5.

During the week the school’s exchange students gave entertaining and educational presentations on how life in their countries really is versus the American stereotypes.

GHS winter sports teams were invited to the stage to be recognized for their efforts this season at several of the student gatherings.

A call for participants in the rock, scissors and paper competition had students lining the auditorium isles for the popular game.

The week of mid-winter merriment ended with a lively performance by the GHS Music Department’s vocal jazz group, a student talent show and a parade by WinterNationalfest king and queen candidates into the auditorium.

Dressed in their best portrayals of current movie characters, the candidates competed in a class trivia game, and humorous Q and A time to win votes from the student body.

This year’s royalty was later crowned at the WinterNationalfest dance Friday evening.

LEFT: Grantsburg High School seniors Kevin Vollendorf and Megan Miller were crowned king and queen at the WinterNationalfest dance Friday evening, Feb. 5. - Photo by Scott Hoffman

Ninth-grade student Jenna McNally played guitar to accompany Macy Moore (not pictured) who sang “Iris” by the Goo-Goo Dolls.

GHS senior Amber Pederson sang, “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran.

Claire Palmquist and Colt Lien performed “Baby It’s Cold Outside” with the other members of the GHS Music Department’s vocal jazz group.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer unless othewise noted

The GHS Music Department’s vocal jazz group entertained the student body performing the lively winter tune “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.”

During the GHS WinterNationalfest Week visiting exchange students gave entertaining and educational presentations on how life in their countries really is versus American stereotypes. Rasmus Engel (right) and Mateo Cisternino, visiting from Denmark and Italy, respectively, shared cultural information surrounding food, family, work and school in their countries.

Seniors vying for king and queen honors dressed in their best portrayals of current movie characters for the WinterNationfest pageant. Kevin Vollendorf and Megan Miller took off as futuristic fighters Hans Solo and Princess Leia from the Star Wars movies.

Sawyer Coy showed his survivalist side as Leonardo DiCaprio in “The Revenant,” with Megan Rod as his shiny Oscar statuette.

Jordan Gaffney entertained students with a Dubstep dance routine.

WinterNationalfest king candidate Sawyer Coy had fellow students rolling in the aisles as he hobbled along dressed as Leonardo DiCaprio from the movie, “The Revenant.”

Brett Anderson milked his farmer look with Violet Ohnstad tagging along as his trusty cow.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

USMC Northwoods League ice-fishing contest

SIREN - Winners of the eighth-annual USMC Northwoods League ice-fishing contest held on Clear Lake in Siren on Saturday, Feb. 6, were Ben Anderson with the overall largest fish, a 13-pound northern, and Maison Burton and Aaron Long with the smallest fish.

First- through third-place northern went to Zach Doriott, 8 lbs.; Ryder Olson, 2.2 lbs.; and Tyler Bonngard, 10 oz. Firstand second-place bass went to Sherry Melvor, 1.1 lbs.; and Cary Bannie, 14 oz.; and first- through third-place panfish

went to Jerome Frazee, 1.6 lbs.; Aaron Long, 10 oz.; Aaron Long, Zack Preiner and Billie Jo, 8 oz. Each winner received a cash prize.

The grand-prize raffle winner was Bob Classert, Centuria; second prize went to Dan Hughes, Grantsburg; and third prize was awarded to Bill Cook of Siren. Travis Demarre, Trade Lake, received the ultimate prize of a new ice auger. – Becky Strabel

Siren High School students wait to hear the results of the eighth-annual Northwoods Marine Corps League ice-fishing contest that was held Saturday, Feb. 6, in Siren.

Robert Classert, USMC league member, passes out door prizes as hopeful winners check their numbers.

Aaron Long of New Richmond had his name on the registration board many times during the contest. This large northern was brought in after the whistle blew, but Long did tie for the smallest fish.

Photos by Becky Strabel

Northwoods USMC League members Anthony Wells Jr., Anthony Wells Sr., Phil Landgraf, Northwoods Commandant Kent Lahners, Robert Classert, Ed Greener and state Commandant Lynn Sabel were happy with the decent weather and turnout for the contest. It is estimated that over 100 people participated this year.

Brady and his owner, Vanessa Ries of Siren, were just a couple of the many canine/owner duos that enjoyed the weather and ice on Clear Lake.

Little Mexico, on Siren’s Clear Lake, served as the location of the state’s only ice-fishing contest sponsored by a USMC League. The contest is in its eighth year and was the brainchild of Ed Greener, league member, of Clam Falls.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

INTER-COUNTY LEADER

WINTER SPORTS FREDERIC • GRANTSBURG • LUCK • ST. CROIX FALLS • SIREN • UNITY • WEBSTER BASKETBALL • GYMNASTICS • HOCKEY • WRESTLING

Vikings back in first place with win over Siren Unity girls win eighth straight Frederic 65, Siren 54 Marty Seeger|Staff writer FREDERIC – With just two conference games left in the regular season the Frederic Viking girls basketball team control their own destiny if they want to repeat as West Lakeland Conference champions. Their win over Siren on Friday, Feb. 5, was their second win over the Dragons this season and a step in the right direction and their win over Grantsburg on Monday leaves the Vikings playing their final two conference games against a hot Unity team and St. Croix Falls. Unity is also the Vikings only conference loss.

The Dragons only two conference losses came at the hands of Frederic but they came close to taking the win on Friday. Frederic led much of the first half and were up by as many as seven points before Siren chipped their way back to tie it up, using an Ashlee Rightman 3-pointer with just over one minute to play in the first, leaving a 26-26 tie at the break.

That’s kind of been how we’ve played.

It’s not like we’ve blown anybody out all year and obviously we weren’t going to blow Siren out,” said Vikings coach Troy Wink. “We just kept weathering every punch they threw because they got down there and took the lead a few times and Ann (Chenal) was in foul trouble.”

Chenal had three fouls in the first half and had to sit for part of it, and Siren leading scorer Caitlyn Daniels went down hard early in the second half just as Siren brought the score to within one point, but managed to get back into the game. Shortly after the injury the Dragons regained a 32-31 lead. That lead quickly went back and forth three different times before Frederic went on a 5-0 run thanks to a Taylor Alseth steal and two-and-one opportunity, and a pair of free throws moments later to put the Vikings in control, 38-34. Alseth nearly finished the game with a triple double, putting up 26 points, with 16 rebounds and eight assists. She also had three of the Vikings five steals.

“I really thought Taylor put the team on her shoulders. She just kind of took control and I think that was big,” Wink said.

“Our two freshmen had to play some key minutes, Kalyn (Miller) and Sydney (Domagala), they really stepped it up in the second half. It was just a nice overall win for us.”

With just over 10 minutes still to play in the game Chenal picked up her fourth foul and Alseth had three with just over eight minutes remaining, as Siren cut the Frederic lead to three points. The Vikings then went on a 6-0 run courtesy of two big buckets by Alseth and another by Shelbi Root, to force a Siren time-out and give the Vikings a nine-point lead, 53-44. Siren did everything to get back into the game and were within five points with about four minutes to play, and were within

Frederic’s Shelbi Root takes aim at the basket against the Dragons.

Extra Points

Ann Chenal drives the lane against Siren’s Ashlee Rightman on Friday, Feb. 5, in Frederic, where the Vikings won a key conference matchup. – Photos by Marty Seeger six points with 1:38 left to play, but the Vikings, who shot 16 of 25 from the freethrow line, went 5 for 6 in the final minute to seal the victory.

“It was nice. They obviously really pounded Daniels at us and she did a good job of drawing fouls and creating things,” Wink said, adding that he was pleased with their defensive effort on Daniels as well.

“I thought we did a decent job with cutting off the baseline tonight because Daniels is so good down there on the baseline with her moves, but then they just adjusted. That’s the beauty of the chess match between our two teams.”

Along with Alseth’s big night Emily Amundson finished with 13 points, two assists and 11 rebounds. Nicole Nelson had three assists, nine points, Chenal had eight points, Shelbi Root finished with six points, Miller had two and Domagala added one.

Unity 54, St. Croix Falls 43 ST. CROIX FALLS – The Unity Eagle girls basketball team improved to 9-4 overall and won their eighth straight victory over St. Croix Falls Friday, Feb. 5.

Unity had a big first half and got out to

a 30-18 lead with Raelin Sorensen leading with 12 first-half points while Jessica Grams added eight.

“Our shooting for the first half of the game was our best of the year. Our perimeter players shot very well as did our post players,” said Unity coach Rory Paulsen.

After six points in the first half Gabrielle Foeller scored another 13 in the second half to lead the Eagles with 19 points.

She shot 9 of 12 from the free-throw line.

Grams finished with 12 points and Sorensen added 14, followed by Jasmine Lowe with five, and Courtney Valleskey and Emma Moore each with two.

“We do need to work on our passing, catching and running our offense with a lead. I thought SCF really did a good job of defending us in the second half which led to some of our second-half turnovers.

All in all it was a very good win for us and I am happy for our girls,” Paulsen said.

Saints sophomore Addie McCurdy led with 12 points followed by Adrienne Stoffel, 11, Katie Kopp, eight, Ruthie Stewart, six, and C.J. Basacker, Kristin Petherbridge and Rebecca Nelson each had two.

••• LEADER LAND – The Thursday, Feb. 11, Webster at St. Croix Falls girls and boys basketball games are being broadcast on 104.9 FM, starting at 5:45 p.m. The Frederic at Unity girls and boys basketball games on Friday, Feb. 12, can be heard on 104.9 FM, starting at 5:45 p.m. The Amery at Unity boys basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 11, is being broadcast on 1260 AM, starting at 7:15 p.m. The Baldwin-Woodville at Amery girls basketball game on Friday, Feb. 12, is being broadcast on 1260 AM, starting at 7:30 p.m. The Amery at Osceola boys basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 16, can be heard on 1260 AM, starting at 7:30 p.m. High school regional wrestling reports from Division 2 in Amery and Division 3 at Cumberland, will be broadcast on 1260 AM, starting at 10 a.m.

All high school sporting events on the radio are also streamed online and can be found at msbnsports.net.

••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete playing collegiate sports in 2016 who hasn’t been mentioned, send us an email or call and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger

SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 11 p.m. on Tuesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

SPORTS NEWS OR SCORES TO REPORT? • PHONE: 715-327-4236 • FAX: 715-327-4117 • EMAIL: mseeger@leadernewsroom.com

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PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

W I N T E R

L E A D E R

S P O R T S

Saints wrestlers take second at Lakeland tourney

St. Croix Falls wrestlers celebrated a second-place finish at the Lakeland Conference tournament Saturday, Feb. 6. They will now get prepared for regionals this Saturday, Feb. 13, at Cumberland in Division 3. – Photos by Larry Samson

Regional tournaments begin Saturday, Feb. 13 Marty Seeger|Staff writer CAMERON - St. Croix Falls finished second at the Lakeland Conference tournament in Cameron on Saturday, Feb. 6, in Cameron, behind the first-place Clear Lake Warriors. Eleven teams competed at the event with Unity taking third place, followed by Shell Lake, Luck/Frederic/ Grantsburg/Siren, Cornell/Gilman/Lake Holcombe, Flambeau, Cameron, Turtle Lake/Clayton, Bruce and Northwood/

Solon Springs.

Five Saints earned trips to the championship match and three earned conference titles including Garrett Bergmann at 138 pounds, Clay Carney at 145 and Luke Clark, 160.

“The kids wrestled well this weekend.

I was extremely proud of Garrett Bergmann, who had a great day, winning the conference,” said coach Dan Clark.

Bergmann had two matches after receiving a bye in the first and second rounds. He pinned Cooper Boehm of Cornell in 17 seconds before winning by pin in 45 seconds against John Schancer of Flambeau.

“Clay Carney won the toughest bracket

in the tournament and looked good after dropping down a weight class to find better competition,” Clark said.

Carney won three matches on the day after a first-round bye. He defeated Brody Waggoner of Northwood/Solon Springs by pin in 28 seconds, and defeated Walker Golubiff of Bruce in 3:38, before winning the title over Unity’s Jarett Davison by injury default.

At 160, Luke Clark won two matches including a 17-2 tech-fall against Marcus Qualle of Unity, and an 18-5 major decision over Ben Frey of Shell Lake.

Senior Dalton Langer was the other Saint earning a trip to the conference finals. He had a pin and 9-4 decision win before falling to Gabe Colbeth of Clear Lake by major decision in the finals.

“He has won a lot of matches for us in conference duals and at the conference tournament in the last four years,” said Clark.

The fifth wrestler from St. Croix Falls in the finals was freshman Josey Wilson, who defeated Jack Skluzacek of Shell Lake, 7-0, but lost a 6-2 decision in the finals against Nick Sempf.

The team’s only other senior, Hunter Hansen, also finished his conference ca-

reer at heavyweight with a pin over Sam Dusek of Clear Lake in 5:22, for fifth overall.

“It was nice to see Hunter Hansen finish his conference career as a place winner and ending the day with a pin,” Clark said.

Others placing at conference included Shawn Lumsden in sixth place at 106.

Logan Yira was eighth at 113, Teo Urbanik was fourth at 120, Spencer Langer placed third at 152, Brandon Bastin was third at 170, and Trevor Warner took sixth at 182.

“The real season now begins as we head into regionals,” Clark said. “All the work over the last three months is for these three weeks. I am very excited to see how well we can perform. We have two experienced seniors that are ready to go, along with a heap of sophomores and freshmen that have put in a lot of work for a lot of years. I look forward to seeing that work pay off now.”

The Saints will be competing at the Division 3 regionals in Cumberland Saturday, Feb. 13. Wrestling begins at 10:30 a.m.

Saint Clay Carney wrestles Jarett Davison of Unity in the finals match at 145 pounds.

Luke Clark of St. Croix Falls was a tournament champion at 160 pounds.

Garrett Bergmann of St. Croix Falls works on a pin during the Lakeland Conference wrestling tournament held in Cameron on Saturday, Feb. 6.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

W I N T E R

L E A D E R

S P O R T S

Unity wrestlers take third at conference tournament Marty Seeger|Staff writer CAMERON - Four Unity wrestlers earned trips to the conference championship round in Cameron on Saturday, Feb. 6, and two finished with Lakeland Conference titles, including Sam Haider at 152 pounds, and Tony Carlson at 170. As a team, the Eagles placed third among the 11 teams from the Lakeland Conference.

“I thought our wrestlers did a great job.

Sam Haider taking first at 152 was a surprise. And Tony Carlson at 170 was impressive also,” said coach Shawn Perkins.

Haider had to win three matches at the tournament after a first-round bye. In his first match he pinned Brandon Hansen of Turtle Lake/Clayton, and pinned Jake Myers of Clear Lake in 3:58 in the semifinals. In the finals match, he defeated Shell Lake’s Carter Lawerence by a 14-8 decision.

“Sam Haider wrestled well and is really improving at the end of the season. Once he starts using his athletic ability and his technique he will be tough to beat,” Perkins said.

At 170, Carlson had received a bye in both of the first two rounds and won a major decision over Brandon Bastin of St. Croix Falls. He went on to win a 12-4 major decision against Steven Holdt of Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg/Siren, in the championship round.

Perkins said the win is an improvement after Carlson beat Holdt 3-0 in a previous match about one month earlier.

“Tony is another wrestler that once he believes in wrestling and not just brawling will be tough to beat in the tourna-

Derek Johnson of Unity placed third at the Lakeland Conference tournament in Cameron on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 126 pounds. ments,” Perkins said.

Others making it to the finals included A.J. Bearhart at 120. He had a bye in the first and second rounds before pinning

Unity’s A.J. Bearhart made it to the finals at 120 pounds. – Photos by Larry Samson

Blane Tendrup took fourth place at the conference meet in Cameron.

Merlin Hibbs of LFGS in 3:04. He had an exciting match to finish the tournament in the finals against Zach Elmer of Clear Lake, who is ranked fourth in the state.

Bearhart was tied 4-4 with 20 seconds re-

maining in the match, but lost by a takedown.

“A.J. took a great shot and just about finished it for the win. He ended up getting taken down to lose the match 6-4. It just shows that if A.J. believes in himself he is a very good wrestler,” Perkins said.

Jarett Davison ended up in second place only after suffering an injury in the finals round against Clay Carney of St. Croix Falls.

“Jarett had a really nice tournament going,” Perkins said, noting Davison’s 5-2 win over Dominic Hopke of Shell Lake in the semifinals. Hopke was ranked ninth in the state.

“Unfortunately, he got dinged up in the finals and had to injury default. We’ll see how he rehabs this week but we expect him back next Saturday,” said Perkins.

At 126, Derek Johnson was in a tough weight class according to Perkins, but pulled out a third-place finish. Johnson wrestled four matches and had three pins on the day. His only loss came against the tournament champion, Dalton Langer, of St. Croix Falls, 9-4.

Other Unity wrestlers placing at the conference tournament included Blane Tendrup at 106 taking fourth place, as well as Marcus Qualle at 160 and Dylan Peper at 195.

Julien Tillery was a fifth-place finisher at 132, and Patric Tillery took fifth at 182.

Unity’s next tournament will be at the Division 3 regionals this Saturday, Feb. 13, at Cumberland. Wrestling begins at 10:30 a.m.

The Unity wrestling team had a great day on the mats at Cameron during the Lakeland Conference tournament, taking third place overall.

Britton takes title at conference tournament against Isaac Haines of Shell Lake in the third-place match.

Other LFGS wrestlers placing included Adam Menke in fifth place at 145. Peter Lund took fourth at 152, and Brock Phernetton was seventh at 195.

Two other wrestlers earn spot in the finals Marty Seeger|Staff writer CAMERON – Cole Britton finished in first place in the 113-pound weight class at the Lakeland Conference wrestling championships in Cameron on Saturday, Feb. 6. He and two other Luck/Frederic/ Grantsburg/Siren wrestlers made the finals at the tournament, Steven Holdt at 170, and Parker Steen at 285.

Britton had to win three of his matches and dominated it with a 17-1 tech-fall over Paul Nedland of Cornell/Gilman/ Lake Holcombe. He defeated Tyler Quade of Turtle Lake/Clayton by pin in 1:05 in the semifinals, and pinned Nick Elmer of Clear Lake in 5:41.

Holdt also had a good day with a 6-0 win over Mason Krueger of Clear Lake and an 8-7 win against Dakota Hoffman of Bruce, before losing the finals match to Tony Carlson of Unity.

Steen went 1-1 on the day and received a bye in the first and second round. In the semifinals he pinned Devin Guggenberger of Shell Lake in 1:14, but was pinned by Takoda Lee, of CGLH, in the finals in 4:30.

Two other LFGS wrestlers took third place including Merlin Hibbs at 120.

Hibbs received a bye in the first two rounds but lost his first match by pin.

He finished strong, however, earning a

Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg/Siren wrestler Cole Britton took first place at the Lakeland Conference championship on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 113 pounds. – Photos by Larry Samson pin against Teo Urbanik of St. Croix Falls in 3:39. Matthew Louis was the other LFGS third-place finisher. He won three

matches on the day including a pin over J.C. Shackleton of CGLH in 44 seconds.

He also had one pin, and won a 7-3 match

Merlin Hibbs of LFGS takes down Saints wrestler Teo Urbanik for third place at 120 pounds.

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Cards collapse in battle for conference runner up conference opponent.”

Jordan Knutson is a very tough ball handler in the closing minutes of any game, and is not someone you want stepping to the free throw line, as he hit 9 of 12 shots, ending any hope of a road upset for the Cards.

Early foul trouble puts Mortel on bench Grantsburg 74, Luck 67 Scott Hoffman|Staff writer GRANTSBURG – Luck came into the burg still smarting from a great opportunity to knock off conference leader Unity, falling short in a valiant effort and hoping to carry that into a battle for second place with Grantsburg. The game on Friday, Feb. 5, had the Cards Noah Mortel starting things off scoring six of his 17 points, but he also collected two personal fouls that landed him on the pines.

Teammate Taylor Hawkins did what he could from the outside, scoring 23 points, but it was Grantsburg’s outside shooting guards, Jordan Knutson, 22 points, and Jackson Gerber, 14 points, who did the most damage to the cardinals hopes. Grantsburg came out red hot in the second half and lit up the Luck squad, creating opportunities from steals.

Grantsburg coach Nick Hallberg praised his rival.

“Luck has been playing really well as of late and tonight they proved that. We were able to do some things to start the second half that we had stressed at half, that allowed us to make that first run.

This was a good win against a quality

Luck’s Noah Mortel and Grantsburg’s John Chenal battle over a rebound during a Friday, Feb. 5, conference matchup. – Photos by Scott Hoffman Grantsburg’s Jordan Knutson hits a free throw against Luck. He shot 9 of 12 overall.

Frederic boys fend off Siren for conference win Frederic 58, Siren 47

Unity St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS – The Unity boys hit the road to St. Croix Falls on Friday, Feb. 5, and came away with their 10th conference victory of the year. Logan Bader led the Eagles with 18 points as Unity led by 23 points at the half. Nathan Bradley added 12, followed by Wyatt Stenberg and Erik Peterson each with 10, Zack Wagner, eight, Nathan Heimstead, five, Brett Nelson and Cody Ince each had four, Jesse Vlasnik, three, and Logan Hendrickson had two.

Alex Johnson had a nice night for the Saints with 22 points, while Jake Johnson added eight, Jameson Kahl, six, Daniel Crandall, four, and Cole Webb, one.

Marty Seeger|Staff writer FREDERIC – The Frederic Vikings avenged an earlier loss to the Siren Dragons on Friday, Feb. 5, earning a split on the season and continuing a stretch of quality basketball. The Vikings have won four of their last five games after their Tuesday, Feb. 9, win over Shell Lake.

“This was a game our boys were looking forward to for a while and their mental preparation was excellent,” said Vikings coach Ethan Bergstrom.

Siren was without two of their starters for the game and had trouble keeping pace with Frederic, but still managed to keep themselves within six points much of the first half. The Vikings stretched

Frederic’s Jonah Tinman looks for an open shot Friday, Feb. 5, as the Dragons defense swarms around him. – Photos by Marty Seeger

Siren sophomore Xander Pinero finds an open look at the basket.

their lead to 10 points with just over five minutes to go in the first half and maintained that lead until halftime to lead 2920.

Frederic got off to a fast start in the second half, with Jonah Tinman continuing his solid game both on offense and defense. He finished with 14 points, and the Vikings got out to a 16-point lead before Siren’s Aaron Ruud buried two threes.

Later in the second half, Ruud buried another pair of threes and the Dragons climbed back to within as little as five points with 3:30 still to play, but Siren was eventually forced to foul and in the final two minutes, Vikings senior Austin Ennis went 5 of 6 from the free-throw line to help seal the win.

“The Frederic boys have really come to-

gether as a team in the last few weeks and our team play just keeps getting better,” Bergstrom said. “I am thankful for our parents, community, staff, and fans that showed up and supported the team Friday night. It was great to see them all on their feet cheering.”

Other Vikings scoring included Roman Poirier with 16, followed by Ennis, 15, Mason Gustafson, five, and Kyle Olson, four.

Neil Oustigoff finished with 20 points for the Dragons followed by Ruud with 15, Tanner Lee, six, and Xander Pinero, Ben Lemieux and Max Lindquist each had two.

Frederic’s Kyle Olson takes a jumpshot against the Dragons.

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Pirates send Cardinals south Grantsburg’s scrappy defense creates turnovers Grantsburg 53, Luck 44 Scott Hoffman|Staff writer GRANTSBURG – The Lady Pirates continued to take steps forward Friday, Feb. 5. Grantsburg jumped out to an early lead versus the Luck girls and cruised to a 10-point halftime advantage. The Pirates seemed to be contesting the ball at every opportunity, creating turnovers and quick scoring.

Cassidy Lee again set the scoring pace with 16 points, and 13 in the second half, followed by Olivia Tucker with 12. Grantsburg’s coach Penny Curtin sounds like she is enjoying the season.

“Our leading scorer is recuperating from a sprained knee and saw limited court time so Kate Curtin and Janessa Bonneville had to fill in and did a great job. We finished the first half rather flat, allowing Luck to get back into the game, but we came on strong in the second half of the second half. It was a great team effort and I am proud of the girls for playing so hard.”

Luck head coach Britta Petersen felt they had their opportunities for an upset, clawing back to within a bucket, 35-33.

“My kids came out and were flat. We scored the first four points and then got down 19-4. We got outrebounded and gave up way too many second- and third-chance opportunities. It was nice to see the kids play hard and get themselves out of a hole like that but we just couldn’t hang on.” Cards scoring was led

by Kyla Melin and Brittany Donald both with nine.

Grantsburg’s Katie Curtin pulls down a rebound in traffic during a game against Luck on Friday, Feb. 5. – Photos by Scott Hoffman

Katie Curtin is all alone under the basket for a layup against the Cardinals.

Kyla Melin of Luck, No. 3, puts pressure on the Pirates Friday, Feb. 5.

Grantsburg’s Rhianna Pochman finds herself surrounded

by Cardinals including Olivia Nielsen, No. 13 and Paige Runnels, No. 15.

Hockey playoff brackets announced for girls, boys Blizzard boys hit four-game losing streak Marty Seeger|Staff writer SIREN – The Blizzard boys hockey team hit a four-game losing streak after a 5-2 loss at Rice Lake on Tuesday, Feb. 9. With just one game left to the regular season scheduled against Hayward this Saturday, Feb. 13, at Hayward, the Blizzard will want to try and pick up some momentum with a win heading into the playoffs. The playoffs for the boys begin on Tuesday, Feb. 16, on the road against River Falls at the Wildcat Centre Arena, beginning at 7 p.m.

The Blizzard boys have a No. 9 seed and River Falls is the No. 8 seed. The winner of the Tuesday playoff game will have to face No. 1 seeded Hudson the following Thursday, Feb. 18.

The Blizzard boys previous four losses haven’t come without a fight. They lost to

Regis on Thursday, Feb. 4, by a score of 6-0, but battled Ashland in a 3-2 loss Saturday, Feb. 6, at Siren.

Max Norman had a goal and was assisted by Mangen, who also got one of the Blizzard’s two goals on assist by Andrew Ruiz. Blizzard goalie Taran Wols had 25 saves, and another 44 saves on Monday, Feb. 8, in a 1-0 loss to Pine City/Rush City, Minn. The Blizzard also had 44 shots on goal, but couldn’t sneak the puck past Luke Murphy.

In the team’s fourth loss, it was Rice Lake who came out on top 5-2 on Tuesday, Feb. 9.

Blizzard girls eye playoffs SIREN – The Blizzard girls hockey playoff bracket was announced recently, and will begin Thursday, Feb. 18, on the road against the No. 1 seeded Hayward Co-op, starting at 5 p.m.

The Blizzard girls haven’t won a game this season and lost to the Hayward co-op on Monday, Feb. 8, by a score of 8-2. In that game Mykayla Anderson got the

Blizzard on the board first with an even strength goal but it was all Hayward after that. The only other time the Blizzard scored was late in the third period on a Mackenzie Johnson even-strength goal.

On Tuesday, Feb. 9, Anderson scored the Blizzard’s only goal at Superior in a 10-1 loss. Goalie Mackenna Johnson had 59 saves on the night.

In their final game of the regular season, the Blizzard will hit the road to Onalaska Thursday, Feb. 11, starting at 6 p.m.

Blizzard forward Taylor Zenzen and the rest of the Blizzard hockey team will hope to get back on track as playoffs get closer. – Leader file photo by Becky Strabel

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Noah Mortel makes it official Luck senior signs to play D1 football at UND Marty Seeger|Staff writer LUCK – Few athletes get the opportunity to play collegiate football, particularly at the Division 1 level. Ever since his sophomore year, Luck senior Noah Mortel had the dream of someday playing Division 2 basketball. The recent 1,000-point scorer could have likely done so, but instead received a scholarship to play at the University of North Dakota. Only one other Luck athlete has moved on to play at the Division 1 level. That was Avery Steen, who went on to play Division 1 women’s golf at UW-Green Bay. “Well, coming in probably my sophomore year I thought I was going to hopefully play Division 2 college basketball.

And my football coach, always thought I could play Division 1 football,” Mortel said, on the night he sunk his 1,000thpoint for the Cardinals. “I kept working hard and he stuck me in the weight room for all four years and it really paid off.”

The listed 6-foot-6-inch 250-pound senior is expected to play on the offensive line at UND, at left tackle.

During Mortel’s freshman year at Luck, coaches and players gave him the nickname “D1” because of his size, according to head coach Don Kendzior. ”Noah worked really hard in the weight room ever since his sixth-grade year. His size, foot speed and work ethic has caught the eyes of a lot of coaches,” Kendzior said, adding that Mortel was

Noah Mortel officially signed his letter of intent to play Division 1 football at the University of North Dakota next fall, as a left tackle. Mortel is surrounded by coaches and his parents. – Photo by Mary Stirrat

also impressive at the football combine in southern Wisconsin. Mortel took first place in the bench press competition among 300 other participants.

“There are a lot of younger athletes that look up to Noah. His two older brothers have played an important role in his work ethic. They have always been on him to improve. I feel Noah will be successful at the D1 level because of his attitude, desire and the willingness to succeed.

UND will put another 50 pounds onto his

frame by a year from now. Noah knows the sky’s the limit for having his school paid for and possibly reaching the next level of football. He also knows he needs to go into next fall camp with the mindset that he could start at offensive tackle,” Kendzior said.

The Luck football program has had its share of successes over the years since moving to eight-man football. Just last season the team set 14 national records, finished the season 9-1 and has several

other players pursuing football at the college level.

Seniors Chris Pouliot and Jared Hunter are planning to play at the collegiate level and Evan Armour is already playing at UW-Platteville. Both former athletes Karsten Petersen and Kyle Hunter currently play football at River Falls.

AREA BOWLING RESULTS Hacker’s Lanes Sunday Afternoon Youth Standings: Strikers 15, Huskies 13, Wolves 8, Pins 4.

Boys games: Parker Steen (P) 199, Jonathan Skow (S) 174, Richard Bugella (H) 139.

Boys series: Parker Steen (P) 539, Jonathan Skow (S) 394, Richard Bugella (H) 376.

Girls games: Rachael Bugella (W) 145, Paulina Peterson (W) 129, Madeline Kuesel (W) 112.

Girls series: Rachael Bugella (W) 397, Paulina Peterson (W) 379, Madeline Kuesel (W) 289.

Team games: Strikers 286, Pins 282, Wolves 255.

Team series: Pins 810, Strikers 730, Wolves 686.

Monday Afternoon Retired Standings: Bears 13, Badgers 13, Swans 10, Hummingbirds 10, Night Hawks 9, Vultures 9, Eagles 8, Mallards 8.

Men’s games: Lloyd Swanson 203, Ron Noble 196, Dick Coen & Garey Wynn 181.

Men’s series: Ron Noble 532, Dick Coen 523, Lloyd Swanson 522.

Women’s games: Mona Renfroe 198, Nancy Anderson 191, Debbie Janke 174.

Women’s series: Mona Renfroe 573, Nancy Anderson 521, Marge Traun 479.

Team games: Night Hawks 674, Vultures 644, Bears 635.

Team series: Night Hawks 1981, Vultures 1883, Bears 1845.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Yellow Lake Lodge 51.5, Maurer Power 41, S&G 34, House of Wood 27.5, Pioneer Bar 23.

Individual games: Tony Wilson 264, 257 & 247.

Individual series: Tony Wilson 768, Ed Bitler 593, Don Swenson 575.

Team games: Yellow Lake Lodge 654, Maurer Power 589, S&G 542.

Team series: Yellow Lake Lodge 1888, Maurer Power 1647, S&G 1596.

Games 50 pins or more above avg.: Tony Wilson 768 (+183).

Series 100 pins or more above avg.: Tony Wilson 264 (+69), Butch Hacker Jr. 225 (+59).

Wednesday Night Early Standings: Pioneer Bar 16, Hansen Farms 14, Cummings Lumber 12, Skol Bar 11, Luck Laundry 10, Cifaldi Motors 9, Stotz & Co. 8, Bye 0.

Individual games: Moose Wilson (SB) 268, Gene Wynn Jr. (HF) 258, Jason Frenette (PB) 257.

Individual series: Moose Wilson (SB) 700, Oliver Baillargeon (HF) 692, Gene Wynn Jr. (HF) 660.

Team games: Skol Bar 1052 & 1017, Pioneer Bar 1015.

Team series: Skol Bar 2958, Hansen Farms 2804, Cummings Lumber 2744.

Thursday Early Standings: Backwoods Beer & Bait 33.5, Wikstrom Construction 31, Fab Four 27, LakeLand Communications 25, Red Iron Studios 24.5, Hell Raisers 23, Grindell Law Offices 22.5, American Family Siren 21.5.

Individual games: Mark Bohn (FF) 257, Jim Wikstom (WC) 218, Jeremy Anderson (BBB) 214.

Individual series: Mark Bohn (FF) 654, Jeremy Anderson (BBB) 588, Mike Renfroe (RIS) 581.

Team games: Fab Four 603, Red Iron Studios 569, Wikstrom Construction 565.

Team series: Fab Four 1715, Red Iron Studios 1601, Wikstrom Construction 1555.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Curtis Renfroe 213 (6x), Mark Bohn 257 (5x) Games 50 or more above avg.: Mark Bohn 257 (+60), Jeff Jenetto 184 (+60), Jim Wikstrom 218 (+61).

Splits converted: 2-4-8-10: Dave Grindell (GLO). 2-7: Dave Grindell (GLO). 3-10: Edward Bitler (RIS), Dave Grindell (GLO), Jim Wikstrom (WC) 3x, Jeremy Anderson (BBB). 4-5: Dave Grindell (GLO). 5-6: Dave Grindell (GLO). 5-10: Tootie Meyer.

Friday Night Standings: Frederic Design & Promotion 18, The Leader 14, Pin Heads 12, Junque Art 12.

Individual games: Sheila Hansen 201, Tammy Lindberg 182, Edla Meyer 180.

Individual series: Pat Bresina 487, Tammy Lindberg 474, Sheila Hansen 473.

Team games: Frederic Design & Promotion 823, Pin Heads 822, The Leader 817.

Team series: Frederic Design & Promotion 2384, Pin Heads 2376, The Leader 2302.

Games 50 or more above avg.: Elda Meyer.

Splits converted: 5-7: Cindy Denn.

McKenzie Lanes Monday Night Ladies Standings: Gutterbugs 12.5, Edina Divas 11, Jensen Sundquist Insurance 10, McKenzie Lanes 7, Sam’s Carpentry 6, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 4.5.

Individual games: Linda Giller & Cindy Castellano 192, Jane Smith 187, Patti Katzmark 183.

Individual series: Linda Giller 530, Cindy Castellano 529, Jane Smith 506.

Team games: Gutterbugs 811.

Team series: Gutterbugs 2378.

Monday Night Madness Standings: Mishaps 38, Bon Ton 38, Eagle Lounge 24, Kemps Quality Siding 24, Bewitched 24, Alleycats 20.

Individual games: Sheryl Swagger 194, Debbie Swanson 192, Shirley Wiswell 182.

Individual series: Debbie Swanson 521, Shirley Wiswell 512, Sheryl Swagger 489.

Team games: Mishaps 645, Bon Ton 620.

Team series: Eagle Lounge 1795, Mishaps 1750.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Edina Realty 57, Hack’s Pub 57, Steve’s Appliance Plus 53, The Cobbler Shop 52.5, GA Screenprinting 47.5, The Dugout 46.5, Logoton PC 43.5, Bye 0.

Individual games: Darren McKenzie & John Gerhardt 268, Kevin Ek 265, Cory Crowell 256.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 727, Jeff Lehmann 693, Cory Crowell 685.

Team games: Steve’s Appliance Plus 1264.

Team series: Steve’s Appliance Plus 3539.

Tuesday Women’s Standings: Tomlinson Insurance 71, Jeff’s Small Engine 64.5, Gutter Dusters 63, Split Happens 61.5, Main Street Cafe 57.5, Custom Outfitter 55.5, Kassel Tap 55, Hauge Dental 47.

Individual games: Helen Leggitt 225, Sandy Bannie 201, Sharon Kelly 192.

Individual series: Shirley Wiswell 541, Helen Leggitt 525, Sandy Bannie 513.

Team games: Tomlinson Insurance 881, Gutter Suters 860, Main Street Cafe 832.

Team series: Gutter Dusters 2423, Main Street Cafe 2417, Tomlinson Insurance 2402.

Wednesday Early League Standings: Gehrman Auto Body 40, Thirsty Otter 34, Loveless Lake Bar 30, Adamark Repair 28, Maxwell Heating & Air

28, McKenzie Lanes 24, Suzie Q’s 24, 5 J’s Sports Bar 16.

Men’s games: Mark Anderson 300, Mark Kamish 256, Mike Welling 236.

Men’s series: Mark Kamish 712, Mike Welling 667, Jesse Schultz 660.

Women’s games: Pamela Knoche 214, Dixie Runberg 175, Jeanne Kizer 174.

Women’s series: Pamela Knoche 540, Dixie Runberg 463, Jeanne Kizer 434.

Team games: Maxwell Heating & Air 774.

Team series: Loveless Lake Bar 2147.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Fox Ridge Farm 37, Jeff’s Small Engine 35, Tiger Express 27, Captain’s Bar & Grill 27, 5 J’s Sports Bar 19, McKenzie Lanes 13, Hanjo Farms 13, Dalles Electrician 9.

Individual games: Gordy Johnson 287, Daryn Sylvester 279, Rick Katzmark 266.

Individual series: Gordy Johnson 753, Daryn Sylvester 726, Rick Katzmark 711.

Team games: Jeff’s Small Engine 1202, Tiger Express 1197.

Team series: Jeff’s Small Engine 3272, Tiger Express 3252.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Central Bank 13.5, TL Enterprise 12, Hauge Dental 10, Hack’s Pub 9, Cutting Edgo Pro 8, JJ’s 7, Eagle Valley Bank 5, Soul Sisters 3.5.

Individual games: Jackie Patterson 199, Penny Kammerud 195, Brenda Lehmann 194.

Individual series: Penny Kammerud 518, Jackie Patterson 513, Dawn High 506.

Team games: Hauge Dental 676, Cutting Edge Pro 655, TL Enterprise 638.

Team series: Cutting Edge Pro 1835, Hauge Dental 1808, TL Enterprise 1742.

Black & Orange Early Birds Standings: Gandy Dancer Saloon 22-6, Zia Louisa’s 18-10, The Tap 13-15, Black & Orange 3-25.

Individual games: Lynn Toivala (T) 182, Sally Casey (ZL) 176, Claudia Peterson (T) 174.

Individual series: Sally Casey (ZL) 494, Claudia Peterson (T) 465, Lynn Toivala (T) 449.

Team games: The Tap 970, Zia Louisa’s 886, Gandy Dancer Saloon 882.

Team series: The Tap 2729, Zia Louisa’s 2631, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2486.

Monday Night Standings: Bruce’s Auto 16-0, Yellow River Saloon 8-8, Black & Orange 5-11, Larry’s LP 3-13.

Individual games: Tony Wilson (BA)

267, Dean Eytcheson (BA) 227, Breck Eytcheson (BA) 226.

Individual series: Tony Wilson (BA) 667, Lloyd Katusky (BA) 605, Neil Huppert (YRS) 595.

Team games: Bruce’s Auto 1073, Yellow River Saloon 1021, Black & Orange 1017.

Team series: Bruce’s Auto 3090, Yellow River Saloon 2975, Black & Orange 2925.

Games 50 or more above avg.: Breck Eytcheson 226 (+65); Tony Wilson 267 (+72); Aaron Landin 203 (+55); Neil Huppert 212 (+50).

TNT Standings: Northwoods Lumber 17-3, Flower Power 12-8, Larry’s LP 10-10, Vacant 1-19.

Individual games: Sue Eytcheson (FP) 174, Jennifer Kern (L) 169, Mary Ellen Smith (NL) 166.

Individual series: Sue Eytcheson (FP) 475, Sandy Buhil (NL) 445, Mary Reese (FP) 441.

Team games: Northwoods Lumber 837, Larry’s LP 830, Flower Power 822.

Team series: Northwoods Lumber 2426, Flower Power 2358, Larry’s LP 2310.

Wednesday Night Standings: Bump’s Lakeside 12.5-3.5, Northwoods Lumber 9-7, Lions 5.5-10.5, Black & Orange 5-11.

Individual games: Curt Phelps (BL) 236, Lloyd Katusky (L) 225, James Ubl (BO) 223.

Individual series: Curt Phelps (BL) 645, Lloyd Katusky (L) 577, Josh Johnson (L) 575.

Team games: Bump’s Lakeside 1063, Lions 1061, Northwoods Lumber 1028.

Team series: Lions 3071, Bump’s Lakeside 3042, Northwoods Lumber 2956.

Games 50 or more above avg.: James Ubl 233 (+73); Curt Phelps 236 (+57); Lloyd Katusky 225 (+50).

Splits converted: 4-7-10: Kevin Madden.

Early Risers Standings: Gandy Dancer Saloon 17-11, 10th Hole 15-13, The Granary 14-14, Black & Orange 10-18.

Individual games: Claudia Peterson (GDS) 167, Mary Reese (TG) 158, Lylah Nelson (BO) 152.

Individual series: Mary Reese (TG) & Claudia Peterson (GDS) 443, Lylah Nelson (BO) 422, Judy Olson (BO) 410.

Team games: The Granary 728, Gandy Dancer Saloon 724, Black & Orange 708.

Team series: Black & Orange 2075, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2045, The Granary 1963.

Splits converted: 6-7-10: Toots Ruedy.

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Young dancers perform at halftime in Frederic

Fans at the Frederic versus Siren basketball games in Frederic were treated to a performance by a young group of ladies from “Dance by Andrea,” dance class. – Photos by Marty Seeger

LEADER SPORTS SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Standings Team Conf.

Unity Eagles 10-0 Grantsburg Pirates 8-2 Luck Cardinals 6-4 Frederic Vikings 4-5 Siren Dragons 3-6 Webster Tigers 1-8 St. Croix Falls Saints 1-8

Overall 16-1 13-4 13-5 8-10 10-8 6-11 2-13

West Lakeland Standings Team Conf.

Frederic Vikings 9-1 Siren Dragons 8-2 Unity Eagles 6-4 Grantsburg Pirates 5-6 St. Croix Falls Saints 4-6 Luck Cardinals 3-8 Webster Tigers 1-9

Scores Friday, Feb. 5 Frederic 65, Siren 54 Grantsburg 53, Luck 44 Unity 54, St. Croix Falls 43 Turtle Lake 53, Webster 39 Monday, Feb. 8 Frederic 74, Grantsburg 61 Luck 37, Webster 18 Siren 39, Unity 34 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Frederic 80, Shell Lake 42 Luck 52, Turtle Lake 46 Winter at Webster Unity 39, Bruce 33 St. Croix Falls 59, Osceola 39 Siren 51, Flambeau 48 Grantsburg 70, Spooner 33

Upcoming Thursday, Feb. 11 7:15 p.m.

Webster at St. Croix Falls (DH) Amery at Unity Friday, Feb. 12 7:15 p.m.

Grantsburg at Siren Frederic at Unity 7:30 p.m.

St. Croix Falls at Osceola Tuesday, Feb. 16 5:45 p.m.

Webster at Shell Lake 7:15 p.m.

Luck at Cameron Unity at Lake Holcombe (DH) Cornell at Siren St. Croix Falls at Spooner

Upcoming Thursday, Feb. 11 7:15 p.m.

Webster at St. Croix Falls (DH) Friday, Feb. 12 5:45 p.m.

Grantsburg at Siren (DH) Frederic at Unity (DH) Tuesday, Feb. 16 5:45 p.m.

Unity at Lake Holcombe (DH) Cornell at Siren (DH) 7:15 p.m.

Turtle Lake at Grantsburg Luck at Prairie Farm Webster at Shell Lake (DH)

Siren senior Alexandra Webster tries to close the lane as Unity’s Emma Moore races toward the hoop on Monday, Feb. 8. Siren won a close game and was able to bounce back from a conference loss to Frederic on Friday, Feb. 5. On Tuesday, the Dragons grabbed another big win on the road against Flambeau, the top team of the East Lakeland Conference. For details on Monday’s and Tuesday’s games, see our website at leadernewsroom.com. – Photo by Marty Seeger

WRESTLING

BOYS HOCKEY Standings Conference 2-8

Overall 15-4 15-4 10-5 8-10 8-10 10-10 4-13

Scores

Friday, Feb. 5 Frederic 58, Siren 47 Grantsburg 75, Luck 67 Unity 76, St. Croix Falls 41 Turtle Lake 76, Webster 64 Monday, Feb. 8 Grantsburg 75, Frederic 59 Luck 58, Webster 48 Unity 68, Siren 41 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Frederic 68, Shell Lake 50 Luck 75, Turtle Lake 60 Webster 71, Winter 36 Siren 60, Birchwood 51 Grantsburg 57, Clear Lake 46 St. Croix Falls at Cumberland Unity 56, Clayton 38

Team Blizzard

Lady Dragons bounce back

Overall 8-12-1

Scores Thursday, Feb. 4 Regis 6, Blizzard 0 Saturday, Feb. 6 Blizzard 3, Ashland 2 Monday, Feb. 8 Pine City 1, Blizzard 0 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Rice Lake 5, Blizzard 2

Upcoming Saturday, Feb. 13 10:30 a.m. Division 2 regionals at Amery (Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg/Siren) 10:30 a.m. Division 3 regionals at Cumberland (St. Croix Falls, Unity) Tuesday, Feb. 16 TBD Team sectionals at Boyceville

GYMNASTICS Upcoming Thursday, Feb. 11 6:30 a.m.

Grantsburg vs. Superior at Grantsburg (Grantsburg Community Center)

The Swami

GIRLS HOCKEY Upcoming

Saturday, Feb. 13 1 p.m.

Blizzard at Hayward

On our website:

Monday, Tuesday night sports coverage See leadernewsroom.com

Team Blizzard

Standings Conference 0-6 Scores

Monday, Feb. 8 Hayward 8, Blizzard 2 Tuesday, Feb. 9 Superior 10, Blizzard 1 Upcoming Thursday, Feb. 11 6 p.m.

Blizzard at Onalaska

The Swami encountered a groundswell of consternation last week when his predictions failed to appear in the Feb. 3, edition of the Inter-County Leader.

“That was the day we had the big snowfall,” he said, “and I wasn’t able to make it into THE SWAMI the Leader office to deposit my predictions into the nighttime slot. I apologize to my many fans.”

Meanwhile, the Swami was a dismal 5-3 in his predictions in the Jan. 27 edition.

“I took a flyer on St. Croix Falls to sweep Siren in the doubleheader and I got burned,” he added. So after a week off, the

Overall 0-14

PREDICTS

Prediction King’s record stands at 66-17 for a seasonal success rate of 80 percent.

This week’s games: Boys St. Croix Falls 55, Webster 50 Unity 60, Amery 46 Grantsburg 66, Siren 43 Unity 70, Frederic 53 Girls St. Croix Falls 51, Webster 41 Frederic 47, Unity 44 Siren 55, Grantsburg 43 Prairie Farm 50, Luck 47 The Swami continues to graciously and promptly answer all emails and can be reached at predictionking@yahoo.com

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

I N T E R- C O U N T Y LE ADE R

OUTDOORS ATVs • BIRDING • BOATING • CAMPING • FISHING • HIKING • HUNTING • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

Bone Lake ice-fishing tournament a success

LEFT: Luck High School’s Team 1 ice-fishing team took home the first-place trophy at a fishing contest held on Bone Lake Saturday, Feb. 6. Pictured are Payton Ellefson, Devyn Ellefson, Cashton Ellefson and Beau Brenizer. The team caught a pike measuring 36 inches and weighing 12 pounds, and also caught a limit of panfish weighing 13.99 pounds. The tournament was open to the entire public in conjunction with several high school ice-fishing teams who competed in a separate tournament with many door prizes available. The contest was also a fundraiser for the Luck football program.

RIGHT: A team from Osceola holds up a pair of nice northern pike caught during the Bone Lake ice-fishing tournament. Several pike were caught during the event. – Photos by Scott Hoffman

Migratory Bird Treaty Centennial highlights importance of migratory birds and conservation MADISON – Thanks to a significant treaty between nations 100 years ago, the diverse birds that Wisconsinites watch, photograph and hunt are protected for current and future generations to enjoy.

On Aug. 16, 1916, the United States signed the Migratory Bird Treaty with Canada–the very first of its kind–to protect many migratory bird species from overconsumption. One hundred years later, such treaty agreements to protect and manage shared bird species continue

to provide the foundation for bird conservation throughout the conservation community.

The Migratory Bird Treaty connects federal, state, private, nongovernment, tribal and international partners, who share a long, successful history of conserving, protecting and managing migratory bird populations and their habitats.

Celebrating the centennial of the first treaty will bring together those who have contributed to its success, and will galva-

nize efforts to protect migratory birds for the generations to come.

Celebrating the centennial is as easy as spending time outside in search of birds, attending one of Wisconsin’s bird-related events or teaching someone new about birds, birding or bird hunting. To learn more about treaty impacts and how to participate in the centennial, visit dnr. wi.gov, keyword bird treaty.

To receive monthly conservation success stories about native Wisconsin birds

that have benefited from the Migratory Bird Treaty along with birding and bird conservation information, click on the email icon near the bottom of the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, titled “subscribe for updates for DNR topics,” then follow the prompts and select the “Birding and Bird Conservation” distribution list. – from dnr.wi.gov

Nominations open for Hunter Ethics Award Wisconsin Conservation Congress to honor winners in May LA CROSSEE – Now in its 19th year of honoring Wisconsin hunters of all ages who put integrity and safety above harvest bragging rights, the Hunter Ethics Award has a new member in the government-media partnership that recognizes the outdoor tradition’s finest representatives.

The Wisconsin Conservation Congress this year joined the award sponsor partnership with plans to honor the winners at it the congress’ convention in May. The annual honor was established by Bob Lamb, retired outdoors editor of the La Crosse Tribune, retired DNR conservation warden supervisor Steve Dewald and retired University of Wisconsin - La Crosse biology professor Jerry Davis.

DNR Chief Conservation Warden Todd Schaller joined the award committee five years ago.

Rob Bohmann, chair of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, says “An award that honors adults and youths who make ethical behaviors the foundation of their enjoyment of one of our state’s outdoor traditions represents what the Congress stands for.”

Before any award winners can be se-

lected, there has to be nominations and those must be submitted by Feb. 22. There are two awards - an adult Hunter Ethics Award and a youth Hunter Ethics Award.

Chief Warden Todd Schaller says the annual honor was created to acknowledge hunters who go above and beyond for others who have the same passion or interest - and that is hunting. “Going above and beyond can mean many things.

Maybe it’s introducing someone new to hunting, helping a hunter in need, or taking the right action for the right reason” Schaller says of the award honoring actions by an adult and youth during the 2015 hunting season.

Schaller says if you know of a hunter who thinks and acts with this undeniable foundation in ethics, responsibility and safety, nominate the person for the individual for the Wisconsin. Department of Natural Resources Hunter Ethics Award.

Schaller says hunters look forward to the annual seasons because traditions or creating new traditions with young or novice hunters – remain important. “If you are a hunter in Wisconsin, you must strive to hunt in an ethical manner and to pass on these ethical traditions to the young people in their hunting party.”

To become eligible for the 2015 award: The nominee must be a licensed Wisconsin hunter.

Nomination should indicate the category of award - youth or adult.

The ethical hunting act must have occurred in Wisconsin during the 2015 cal-

endar year.

Nominations will be considered for any DNR-regulated hunting activity in Wisconsin.

Written nominations must contain the name, address and telephone number of the witness or witnesses to the behavior

that led to the nomination and mailed to Todd.schaller@wisconsin.gov, or to Department of Natural Resources, Attention: Chief Warden Todd Schaller LE/5, PO Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707-7921, by Feb. 22, 2016. – from dnr.wi.gov

Unusual ending for life of young buck Gordy Lehman submitted an unusual photo recently of a young buck that met his demise in a bizarre way.

The buck apparently got tangled in some trees not far off the roadway. It appeared as though the deer maybe was startled, and upon leaping off the roadway, got lodged between the trees. – Photo submitted

SCF School Board considers financing 10-year plan

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

Energy efficiency payback may allow unique way to pay

Greg Marsten | Staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Falls Board of Education will weigh a variety of options on how to possibly address their 10-year facilities plan and priorities, mainly on how to pay for the estimated $5.273 million overall costs.

The board addressed their options at their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 9, where district Administrator Mark Burandt outlined several possible options for implementing the plan, which addresses maintenance, repairs and general upkeep on everything from roofing to driveway paving, windows, painting, boilers, electrical utilities and more, over the next decade.

As noted in previous stories, the plan does not include any expansions or new construction, only maintenance and upkeep.

“We basically have four options on how to pay for this,” Burandt said.

The first option is to simply address each need as it comes, and hope they can find room in that year’s budget for the costs.

“That’s basically being reactive, kind of what we’re doing now,” Burandt said.

Burandt said the second option is their current policy, which is to fund the costs through annual allotments, of so much

money annually.

“This district has been very good at this,” Burandt said.

The third option Burandt presented was one where the district would use a state “energy exemption” in the next budget cycle, to allow them to do approximately half of the upgrades with a so-called Act 32 provision.

That Act 32 provision would allow the district to seek state approval on upgrades that they cannot normally afford, and insert them into their tax levy, as they are undertaken.

The district would need to justify the upgrades to the state and prove that there is a payback time in the upgrades of efficiency.

Burandt noted an option the district might use to replace all their exterior lighting with higher efficient LED units, which he said would cost approximately $85,000 districtwide, but would be paid back in under five years.

“After that payback period, we will be saving money,” Burandt said.

The last option for the plan is to go to referendum, which Burandt said was always an option.

Most of the items on the 10-year plan are already prioritized, and Burandt had several items he feels need to be addressed as soon as possible, such as certain roofing projects, totaling approximately $300,000 to $350,000.

He also noted the aging fiberglass diffusing panels on the high school/middle school, which are aging, leaking and do

Elderly woman earns seventh DUI

76-year-old facing felony charges from arrest

Greg Marsten | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE - A 76-year-old Osceola woman is facing a felony charge of driving while intoxicated, seventh offense, after she was stopped by Osceola Police on the evening of Thursday, Feb. 4, after the officer saw her license plate was expired.

During the stop, the woman appeared to be under the influence and smelled of intoxicants.

Police identified her as Jean M. Bloom, 76, Osceola. Bloom has six previous DUI convictions, and is under court order not to have any alcohol.

During the stop, she registered a blood alcohol concentration of .094, which is above the legal limit, and well over the limit that Bloom is allowed to have in her blood system.

Bloom was taken into custody and arrested for felJean Bloom ony DUI, seventh offense. She appeared before a judge on Friday, Feb. 5, where a $5,000 cash bond was set with the next court date being Feb. 12.

not offer as much energy pass-through as a new panel. Replacements would cost approximately $300 to $350,000, depending on how many were done at once.

Burandt will look closer at the Act 32 financing option, and will bring more info back to the board in the coming month.

In other council business: • The board approved the purchase of a new phone system from Heartland Systems, using CenturyLink as the carrier. The cost is estimated at $125,256 and has been discussed at length in recent months.

• The board discussed a variety of policy issues, including how to deal with service animals, cash deposits from school events and other fiscal items. They took no action but will review the policies at a future meeting.

The board entertained a brief presentation on possibly purchasing a new software system for their board action, agendas and public website.

The cost of the systems reviewed ranged from $2,000 annually for BoardBook to $10,000 for BoardDocs program.

They also looked at a program called Accela, which they described as “not very

user friendly.”

In the end, the board voted to move forward with the lesser option at $2,000, and will have more finalized information at a coming meeting.

• The board does not have a candidate to replace outgoing board member Sheri Norgard, which means a unique write-in set of rules kicks in, according to Burandt.

To be an official write-in candidate, the person must register with the district by April 1.

If they have more than one official write-in, they must take the top vote-getter, if they accept the position, however, if that person does not accept the position, the board is not obligated to accept the second-place finisher, and may, if they choose, appoint someone else.

“You are not bound to accept the second-place finisher,” Burandt said.

However, he noted that if someone is not an official write-in, they cannot legally campaign for the position until they register. “... Or the district is obligated to turn them over to the district attorney (for possible prosecution),” stated district finance director Darci Krueger.

Area businesses make Classic possible FREDERIC - Among the sponsors of this year’s Coon Lake Classic ice-fishing contest held in Frederic on Saturday, Jan. 30, were the following area businesses: Fur, Fins & Feathers, Frederic Grocery, Monty’s Sportsman’s Haven, Daeffler Quality Meats, Northwestern Electric Company, Ace Hardware, Frederic Hardware, CarQuest, Larsen Auto, Frederic Fuel, Frederic Stop, Holiday, Dollar General, Bremer Bank, US Bank, Frederic Dental, Van Meter’s Meats, Northwoods Bakery, Bean’s Country Griddle, Subway, The Ridge, Skol Bar, Pioneer Bar, Hacker’s Lanes, Bon Ton, Frederic Liquor, Bottle Shop, S.N.O.W.S, Avalon, Beehive, Rose Garden, Wash

House, Hair’s the Thing, Linda’s Family Child Care, Jack and Mike Route, Frederic Chamber, Frederic village employees, Frederic Schools, Brenizer’s Motor Sports, Ace Motor Sports, Lee’s Motor Sports, Jeff’s Small Engines, Airworld Custom, Kirk Miller, Craig Knutson, Jim and Lori Raymond, Frederic Area Sanitation and Fishermen and Friends.

Donating toward the medallion hunt prize were the Frederic Chamber of Commerce, State Farm Insurance - Corey Arnold, Frederic Lions Club, Daeffler Quality Meats, Larsen Auto, Frederic Grocery and village of Frederic. - with submitted information

Minnesota man faces meth and firearm charges

Found asleep in a stuck van

Greg Marsten | Staff writer BALSAM LAKE - A 35-year-old St. Paul, Minn., man is facing a variety of charges after he was caught asleep in a van in northern Polk County on the afternoon of Wednesday, Feb. 3. The van, as it turned out, did not belong to him, but in the van were several incriminating items, including methamphetamine and rifles, which the man was not allowed to possess.

According to the probable cause report filed by the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, reports of a stolen snowmobile in the Luck area on the evening of Tuesday, Feb. 2, led police to look for an ATV that was also stolen, and may have been connected to an address nearby.

As they went to the location, they found an individual who was house-sitting at the property, and allowed them to search the premisses.

They found the stolen ATV and other equipment and also found a van stuck in nearby field, with a man sleeping in the driver’s seat.

That man was identified as Grayson Clevenger, 35, St. Paul, and he was not the owner of the van. Inside, the police found meth, as well as evidence of drug dealing and several firearms, which Clevenger is not allowed to possess.

The van in question was being serviced for steering problems, and the owner did not give Clevenger permission to use it otherwise.

A search of the van found that Clevenger had several rifles in back, conGrayson Clevenger cealed by clothing.

He was arrested and taken into custody, facing felony meth possession, and later had a bond set at $2,500.

He later was being released from jail when he confronted employees about how they took his cell phone as evidence.

It was during that confrontation that Clevenger revealed that he is a convicted felon, and cannot possess firearms.

He was taken back into custody and charged with felony possession of a firearm, as well as felony bail jumping. He is set to go before a judge on Feb. 16, where it will be determined if enough evidence exists to bind him over for trial.

Police did recover several other stolen items in the search including a stolen snowmobile, although it was unclear if Clevenger was connected in any way to the thefts.

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PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Unity Community Education Please register for Unity Community Ed classes online at unity.k12. wi.us/district/community-education or contact Deb Paulsen by email at depaulsen@unity.k12.wi.us or call 715-825-2101, ext. 1560.

Aqua Zumba

Paint night

Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”

Preregister by Friday, Feb. 19. Class is Friday, Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m., at the elementary art room. Instructor: Kerissa Morrin, owner of Kerissa’s Paint Parties, $29.

Dinner and show at Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Saturday, May 14, 11 a.m. meal, 1 p.m. show. Preregister by Friday, April 15. Limited number of tickets available.

Small coach bus departs Unity School at 8:45 a.m. The bus should arrive back at Unity between 5:30 and 6 p.m. Chanhassen Dinner Theatre does not admit children under the age of 5, $95 includes meal, server gratuity, show ticket and coach transportation.

This class is ongoing, with registration every six weeks. Beginners can try the first class without obligation to register. Tuesdays for six weeks, beginning Feb. 16, April 5 and May 17, 5-5:45 p.m. at Unity pool. Instructor: Michelle Flaherty, licensed Zumba instructor. Cost: $30/seniors $17.25 for six classes, payable to WITC.

Kids Kamp

Candlelight hike

“Country Roads: The Music of John Denver”

Saturday, Feb. 20, 5-8 p.m. at Unity School nature trail. Parking lot and trailhead are located behind the bus garage.

Maple syruping for beginners Preregister by Monday, Feb. 15. Class is Monday, Feb. 22, 6:30-8 p.m. at high school library. Instructors: Mike Morris and Rick Highstrom, retired Unity teachers. Cost: $9/students 18 and under are free.

“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Sunday, April 3, 1 p.m. matinee show. Preregister by Wednesday, Feb. 17. Limited number of tickets available at Orpheum Theatre, Minneapolis, Minn. Coach bus departs MarketPlace Foods in St. Croix Falls at 11 a.m. Cost: $75 includes main-floor seating and transportation with drop-off and pickup at the theater entrance.

Certain Times In Life Require A Personal Touch

Jack Swedberg, Monument & Marker Sales Patrick L. Taylor, Owner, Director Dennis W. Christianson, Director

We can help with • Prearrangements • Traditional Services • On-Site Crematory • Cemetery Monuments • Online obituaries can be seen at Swedberg-Taylor.com

Swedberg Taylor Family Funeral Homes and Crematory Grantsburg: 715-463-6700 Siren: 715-349-4800 Webster: 715-866-7131

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Unity Girl Scouts Kids Kamp events are held at Unity school for kids ages 4 and older who are potty-trained. Preregister by Friday, Feb. 19.

Space is limited to the first 30 registrants. Friday, Feb. 26, 6-10 p.m. at the elementary school, $20 per child.

Friday, April 22, 7:30 p.m. show. Preregister by Friday, March 4.

Limited number of tickets available at Plymouth Playhouse, Plymouth, Minn. Small coach bus departs Unity School at 5:15 p.m. The show lasts approximately two hours, $49 includes ticket and coach transportation.

Ongoing fitness classes All classes are located in the auditorium. Just drop in and pay the instructor directly.

Cardio workout class: Mondays and Thursdays, 4:15-5:15 p.m.

Zumba: Mondays, 6-7 p.m.

Cardio kickboxing: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7:15-8:15 p.m.

Morning yoga: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:15-7:15 a.m.

DNR Hunter Safety certification You must have a Wisconsin DNR customer ID number, which can be obtained by calling 888-936-7463 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Preregister through community ed. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 7-17, 6-8:30 p.m. at the elementary school cafeteria; range day Saturday, March 12, 9-11 a.m., $10, payable to community ed.

Re-enactor presents Women of the 1890s and Early 1900s at Luck Museum LUCK — Kathy Peterson, a native of Duluth, Minn., who now makes her home in Hammond, will be speaking at the Luck Museum on the roles of women before, during and after the Civil War. Peterson is a graduate of UMD in women’s studies and psychology as well as a graduate of UW-Superior, with a bachelor’s degree in broad fields social studies with a secondary education/social studies credential and a minor in history.

Peterson has been teaching about women’s roles for over 25 years. You may find her wearing the Civil Come to the Luck Museum War re-enactment costume of a female peddler or vi- Thursday, Feb. 25, and learn vandier. A vivandier fol- about the role of women at lowed the troops, selling the turn of the 19th century. food to soldiers and taking — Photo submitted looted booty in exchange for eatables, clothing, blankets, medicines, paper, ink, sometimes liquor and anything a solider could want or need.

The presentation will be Thursday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Luck Museum. All are welcome. The event is free. — submitted

Arts center to host experimental short film night SHELL LAKE - In a departure from its regular offerings, The Art of Film film series at the Shell Lake Arts Center is presenting a night of experimental short films.

Kevin Obsatz, a young filmmaker and film teacher, will be hosting “Arboreality,” created by Cellular Cinema, a loose collective of experimental filmmakers in the Twin Cities. This evening will offer a compelling alternative view of how we use and experience film. The films explore themes of organic growth, change and mortality.

Obsatz will engage with the audience members in a discussion about these films during and after their presentations. The Art of Film begins at 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 13, at the arts center, 103 First Ave., in Shell Lake. Entrance is via the south doors. Admission is by freewill donation.

Light concessions and beverages are available. For questions please contact the center at shelllakeartscenter.org or call 715-468-2414. – submitted

The Art of FIlm begins this Saturday, Feb. 13, at SLAC. Photo submitted

Got a news tip? Opinion?

Event?

Send your information to news@leadernewsroom.com

Express Manicure & Express Pedicure

Includes soak and shaping of nails, cuticle management, $ mini massage and polish. (Reg $85)..................................

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Gift Certificates Available

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The pedicure is customized care for your feet. It includes proper maintenance and grooming of nails and cuticles, customized exfoliation, personalized massage, steam towel masque and polish. The 60-minute massage is tailored to fit the specific needs of each guest. Achieve total rejuvenation as a variety of massage techniques are combined to create a $ wonderfully relaxing experience. (Reg $130)..................

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LENTEN WORSHIP SCHEDULE 2355 Clark Road, Dresser 715-755-2515 Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10 - Service at 6:45 p.m.

Weds., Feb. 17, 24, March 2, 9, 16 11:30 a.m. Soup Lunch & Noon Service or 5:45 p.m. Soup Supper 6:45 p.m. Service Palm Sunday, March 20 8:30 & 10:45 a.m. Services with Choir Cantata Breakfast served at 7:30 & 9:30 a.m.

Maundy Thursday, March 24 Service at 6:45 p.m.

Good Friday, March 25 9:00 - 11:45 a.m. Good Friday Mini Camp Noon Service Easter Sunday, March 27 Services at 6:30, 8:30 & 10:45 a.m.

All are welcome!

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FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Polk County

Marcella J. Benjamin, 67, Town of Union, died Jan. 6, 2016.

Kelly J. Krieger, 54, Town of Trade Lake, died Nov. 30, 2015.

Tammie R. Geurkink, 56, Siren, died Jan. 6, 2016.

Lorraine I. Baker, 92, Grantsburg, died Jan. 12, 2016.

Stella M. Lofthouse, 82, Grantsburg, died Jan. 19, 2016.

Emily M. Randolph, 98, Grantsburg, died Jan. 19, 2016.

Thomas E. Stusek, 69, Town of Siren, died Jan. 16, 2016.

John A. Fallstrom, 76, Grantsburg, died Jan. 21, 2016.

Marcella Z. Prinsen, 85, Amery, died Jan. 15, 2016.

Morton A. Aggerholm, 92, Frederic, died Jan. 16, 2016.

Leonard J. Erickson, 92, Milltown, died Jan. 21, 2016.

Christopher J. Auvin, 53, Cameron, died Jan. 24, 2016.

Wilbur A. Thoreson, 97, Grantsburg, died Jan. 25, 2016.

Arthur R. Bader, 85, St. Croix Falls, died Jan. 26, 2016.

Gloriann P. Jones, 84, Frederic, died Jan. 28, 2016.

Ella M. Valentine, 88, Luck, died Jan. 28, 2016.

Irene L. Richter, 87, Luck, died Jan. 30, 2016.

Candlelight hike set at Unity School nature trail BALSAM LAKE - Unity Community Education invites the public to their candlelight hike on the school nature trail on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The event is free of charge and open to everyone.

Hundreds of lights will illuminate the path for hikers and snowshoers. Sleds will also be available for families who want to pull along their littlest hikers. There will be a fire for warming up and roasting marshmallows.

There will also be hot chocolate and hot apple cider provided by Community Ed. The trailhead and parking lot are located behind the bus garage on the north end of the school. Please contact Deb Paulsen, community ed coordinator, with any questions at 715-825-2101, ext. 1560. - submitted

Cover crop and soil health workshop set for Feb. 19 BALSAM LAKE – The USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service invites interested farmers, landowners and agricultural businesses to attend a free cover crop and soil health workshop on Friday, Feb. 19, 1:30 p.m., at the Polk County Government Center, 100 Polk Plaza, in Balsam Lake.

Cover crops or “green manures” are gaining popularity with farmers and market gardeners as they look for ways to improve soil health, prevent nutrient and soil losses and improve their bottom line. Brian Briski, area resource conservationist, and Keith Zygowicz, Polk County district conservationist, with NRCS will discuss how cover crops improve soil quality and health. Anyone with an interest in cover crops is encouraged to attend.

The objectives of this meeting are to inform grain crop, hay/pasture and market garden farmers/landowners the benefits of utilizing cover crops in their operation and provide examples of how tillage or forage radish, buckwheat, turnips and other green manure crops can improve your bottom line.

People with disabilities who require accommodations to attend or participate in this meeting/event/function should contact Zygowicz at 715-485-3138 or Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339 by Monday, Feb. 15.

Interested landowners should contact the NRCS office at the USDA Service Center in Balsam Lake, 715-4853138, ext. 6. For more information, visit wi.nrcs.usda. gov.

To register for the workshop, call the Polk County Extension Office, 715-485-8600. – from NRCS

SIREN CLINIC

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M-F 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

715-349-2910

After Hours Emergency 715-468-7833 Discount Available For Uninsured Patients

FREDERIC SCHOOL DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING NOTICE Wednesday, February 17, 2016 6 - 12 District Boardroom

FAMILY DENTISTRY

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NEW PATIENTS WELCOME!

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Appointment information call 715-472-2211

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

SUBSTITUTE COOK

On-call position available with Burnett County in N.W. Wisconsin. www.burnettcounty.com for further details or 715349-2181, ext. #6. Application deadline: 4:30 p.m. Friday, 641720 26-27L 16a,b,c February 19, 2016. E.O.E. (Feb. 3, 10, 17) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY Central Bank, as successor in interest to The RiverBank, 2104 Hastings Avenue Newport, MN 55055, Plaintiff, vs.

Joel G. Germain 1449 90th Avenue Amery, WI 54001-4824 United States Department of The Treasury Internal Revenue Service 1500 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20220, Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC 410 Corporate Blvd.

Assignee of Citibank/Sears Norfolk, VA 23502 Defendants Case No. 15-CV-108 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $10,000 NOTICE OF SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on May 18, 2015, in the amount of $134,704.50, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: March 8, 2016, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of the confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. PLACE: The front lobby of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wis. 54810.

DESCRIPTION: Lot two (2) of Certified Survey Map No. 3353 recorded in Volume 15 of Certified Survey Maps on page 120 as Document No. 611777 located in the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4), Section Fifteen (15), Township Thirty-three (33) North of Range Seventeen (17) West, Town of Garfield, Polk County, Wisconsin.

TAX KEY NO.: 024-00283-0000.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1449 90th Ave., Amery, WI 54001 Peter Johnson Sheriff of Polk County, WI PAIEMENT LAW OFFICE, LLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 221 East Mrytle Street Stillwater, MN 55082 651-967-5050 Paiement Law Office, LLC, is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

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(Feb. 10) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC Plaintiff vs.

Kyle J. Filip, AnchorBank, FSB Defendant ADJOURNED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Case Number: 14CV257 Case Code: 30404 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on May 26, 2015, in the amount of $115,381.63, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: ORIGINAL TIME: January 26, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.

ADJOURNED TIME: March 1, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS 1. 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax from the proceeds of the sale upon confirmation from the court.

PLACE: Front lobby of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: Lot Three (3) of Certified Survey Map No. 5245 recorded in Volume 23 of Certified Survey Maps, page 152 as Document No. 720912, being part of Lot Two (2), Lot Three (3) and Outlot One (1), of Certified Survey Map No. 766 recorded in volume 4 of Certified Survey Maps, Page 11, located in Government Lot Seven (7), Section Twenty (20), Township Thirty-Five (35) North, Range Sixteen (16) West, Town of Georgetown, Polk County, Wisconsin.

TAX KEY NO.: 026-00864-0000.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2084 A Bone Lake Dr., Milltown, WI 54858.

Jack N. Zaharopoulos State Bar No. 1041503 Randall S. Miller & Associates, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff 120 North LaSalle Street Suite 1140 Chicago, IL 60602 414-937-5992 Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 U.S.C. Section 1692), we are required to state that we are attempting to collect a debt on our client’s behalf and any information we obtain will be used for that purpose.

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The Frederic School District Board of Education will conduct its regular board meeting on February 17, 2016, in the District Boardroom at 6:30 p.m.

The most current agenda is available after 2/12/16 on the Frederic School District website: www.frederic.k12.wi.us 641697 26L

POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY REGULAR BOARD MEETING Thursday, February 18, 2016 , At 9 a.m.

Shoreview Apartments, Balsam Lake, WI

Agenda: I. Call to order. II. Minutes. III. Financial Reports. IV. Operations Report. V. Unfinished Business. VI. New Busi641639 26L ness. VII. Adjourn

TOWN OF STERLING MONTHLY TOWN BOARD MEETING

The Monthly Town Board Meeting Will Be Held Monday, February 15, 2016, At The Cushing Community Center At 7:00 p.m.

Agenda: Clerk minutes, Treasurer report, Board decision on dump truck sale, Board vote on town timber sale, Citizen input, Rep. for Senator Ron Johnson, Approve operator licenses, Road maint. reports, Set March agenda, Pay bills and Adjournment.

Julie Peterson, Clerk 641669 26L 16a WNAXLP

HELP WANTED

Come Join The Team At Burnett Dairy Cooperative!

• String Operator - Full Time - 1st Shift: Package string cheese,

palletize boxes, operate packaging equipment and cut large blocks of cheese into saleable sizes for our cheese store. 6 a.m. work is complete, Mon. - Fri. with occasional Saturday.

• Makeroom Operator - Full Time - 1st Shift: Assists the Cheesemakers in producing the highest quality mozzarella, provolone and other varieties. Three 12-hour shifts/week + one 8hour shift every other week.

• Cheese Store Clerks & Bistro Staff - Part Time: Assists customers with their purchases and provides excellent customer service. 4 days a week, shift between 7:45 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Competitive wages and excellent benefits including 401(k) and profit sharing for all employees, health/dental/flexible spending and employer-paid life insurance/long-term disability and vacation for full-time employees.

Please apply in person at Burnett Dairy Office, 11631 State Road 70, Grantsburg, WI 54840.

Applications are also available at www.burnettdairy.com/employment

641421 25-26L 15-16a,d,e

Burnett County

NOTICES/EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

576006 21Ltfc

Burnett and Polk County deaths

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PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

(Feb. 10) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT ONEIDA COUNTY James J. Steininger 2176 Whispering Pines Lane Tomahawk, WI 54487 Valerie Steininger 2176 Whispering Pines Lane Tomahawk, WI 54487 Plaintiff(s) vs.

Darryl Thayer P.O. Box 45 Centuria, WI 54824 Shaun Thayer 207 8th Street Centuria, WI 54824 Defendant(s) Small Claims Publication Summons And Notice Case No. 15-SC-853 PUBLICATION SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF FILING TO THE PERSON(S) NAMED ABOVE AS DEFENDANT(s) You are being sued by the person(s) named above as Plaintiff(s). A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption above.

The lawsuit will be heard in the following Small Claims Court: Oneida County Courthouse, 715-369-6120, Branch II, Second Floor, Oneida County Courthouse, 1 S. Oneida Avenue (P.O. Box 400), Rhinelander, WI 54501, on the following date and time: March 2, 2016, 10:00 a.m.

If you do not attend the hearing, the court may enter a judgment against you in favor of the person(s) suing you. A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption agove. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law.

A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

You may have the option to Answer without appearing in court on the court date by filing a written Answer with the Clerk of Court before the court date.

You must send a copy of your Answer to the Plaintiff(s) named above at their address. You may contact the Clerk of Court at the telephone number above to determine if there are other methods to answer a Small Claims complaint in that county.

If you need help in this matter because of a disability, please call 715-369-6120.

CIRILLI LAW OFFICES, S.C. Nick G. Cirilli, Attorney 116 E. Davenport Street Rhinelander, WI 54501 715-369-3443 Date: February 8, 2016 State Bar No.: 1101541 641718 WNAXLP

NOTICES/EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

1913 Beaser Avenue Ashland, WI 54806 Application deadline is February 26, 2016.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED AMENDED POLK COUNTY SHORELAND PROTECTION ZONING ORDINANCE On February 17, 2016, the Polk County Conservation, Development, Recreation & Education Committee will hold a public hearing at 9:15 a.m. in the Polk County Government Center at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on the proposed Amended Polk County Shoreland Zoning Ordinance. The proposed amendment concerns substantial revisions to the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance, enacted April 1, 2010, to bring said ordinance into compliance with Wisconsin Statute Section 59.692, as amended by 2015 Wisconsin Act 55, and Wisconsin Administrative Code, s. NR. 115.05. The lands affected by the proposed amendment are any lands within Polk County that are within 1,000 feet of the ordinary high-water mark, any pond, lake or flowage and any lands within Polk County that are within 300 feet from the ordinary high-water mark of any river or stream or the landward side of the floodplain as provided by 641286 25-26L WNAXLP Wisconsin Statute Section 59.692(1)(b).

A copy of the existing Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance, proposed Amended Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance, and map of the property affected by the amendment are accessible in the office of County Clerk, 100 Polk County Plaza Suite 110, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and on the County website at: http://www.co.polk.wi.us/.

PART-TIME LIBRARY ASSISTANT

Grantsburg Public Library is seeking applicants for a parttime Library Assistant. Library Assistants play an important role as front-line customer-service staff in our growing library. The position is for 15 hours per week, Thursdays and Fridays, including evenings and rotating Saturdays (9:45 a.m.

- 2:15 p.m.).

The ideal candidate has extraordinary people skills, a passion for literacy and community engagement, is detailoriented, enjoys working with technology and strives to provide high-quality service. Beginning wage is $11.50 per hour, plus some benefits. Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent. Computer experience required. Must be able to lift 30 lbs., bend to reach lower library shelves, be willing to drive to training and library service meetings at various locations in Northern Wisconsin.

Complete job description available at grantsburg.wislib.org.

Submit resume and cover letter by 5 p.m. on February 29, 2016, to: grantsburgpubliclibrary@gmail.com or mail to: Grantsburg Public Library, 415 S. Robert Street, Grantsburg, 641208 25-26L Wisconsin 54840.

If interested in the high school volleyball position, PLEASE send in a resume and application ASAP! Send letter of application and resume to: Siren School District Attn.: Ryan Karsten, Athletic Director 24022 4th Ave. Siren, WI 54872 ad@siren.k12.wi.us

TOWN OF MILLTOWN Plan Committee Meeting

WE HAVE THE PERFECT JOB FOR YOU!

Mon., Feb. 15, 2016, 6:30 p.m.

Milltown Fire Hall Virgil Hansen, Clerk

Day Shift: Work Monday - Friday, 5 a.m. - 4 p.m.; with no night or weekend hours.

Closing Shift: Work late afternoon to closing. You must be at least 18 years old.

• Flexible employment to fit your lifestyle.

• We offer competitive wages and benefits.

• Unlimited advancement opportunities.

• Free uniforms, meal benefits and MORE!!!

McDonald’s of St. Croix Falls www.mccourtesy.com

641507 26L

To truly make a different in people’s lives, send your resume to:

SIREN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Head High School Volleyball Coach

641751 26L 16a

Join our nonprofit, community-based hospice and palliative care team. We are seeking RN staff for part-time casual position to serve patients and families with a life-limiting illness in their home setting. Candidates must have strong clinical and patient/family relationship skills, willing to travel and provide care to patients in our Spooner/ Grantsburg service area. Benefits include flexible scheduling, paid time off, annuity, travel time and mileage.

COACHING POSITIONS AVAILABLE

NOTICE TOWN OF MILLTOWN

641531 15-16d 26-17L

REGIONAL HOSPICE SERVICES

641663 26-27r,L 16-17a,b,c

(Feb. 3, 10, 17) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LESLIE A. CLAUSEN Deceased Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 16 PR -1 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth December 28, 1949, and date of death December 21, 2015, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 2719 150th St., Luck, WI 54853.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is April 18, 2016.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wis., Room 500.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar January 6, 2016 Brandi Harder, Personal Representative 2547 Round Lake Road Luck, WI 54853 715-419-2739 641158 WNAXLP

Monthly Board Meeting Monday, Feb. 15, at 7 p.m.

Milltown Fire Hall Virgil Hansen, Clerk 640972 14-15a,d 25-26L

Archways to Opportunities

McScholars

We match up to $10,000 in tuition costs!

700 - $1,050 for tuition costs.

$

POLK COUNTY POSITION ANNOUNCEMENTS Chief Deputy – Law Enforcement

DOQ

Full-time – Exempt (Salaried) Position Polk County is seeking experienced law enforcement professionals as candidates for the position of Chief Deputy Sheriff. This position is responsible to provide strategic management and leadership of the overall four divisions of the Sheriff’s Department: Field Service, Jail, Emergency Management and Communication. Must be an experienced law enforcement professional and proven leader, committed to the professional development of the department. The candidate will be an exceptional communicator, able to thoughtfully represent the interests of the department and Polk County, be politically astute and committed to a positive working environment in the delivery of services. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a closely related field with executive management certificates including the FBI National Academy, Northwestern University Center for Public Safety or other similar state and/or national programs desirable. The candidate will have at least five years of related experience in a law enforcement leadership position and the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential duties of the position.

Candidates must be eligible for Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board Administrative Certificate within a reasonable period of time following appointment.

Submit resume, cover letter and contact information with 5 professional references by February 28, 2016, to Joseph De Lopez or Paul Harlow at: www.govhrusa.com/current-positions/recruitment. Electronic submissions are required. Telephone inquiries: 847-380-3240. Polk County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AA/EEOC 641757 26L

(Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 10) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY TODD TIMMONS Deceased Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 16 PR 07 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth June 23, 1950, and date of death October 15, 2015, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 1290 100th Street, Amery, WI 54001.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is April 29, 2016.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wis., Room 500.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar 715-485-9238 January 15, 2016 Joseph P. Earley (Attorney) 539 South Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI 54017 715-246-7555 640928 WNAXLP Bar No.: 1026211

SR. PRODUCTION MATERIALS ANALYST Webster, WI Nexen is a leading manufacturer of industrial clutches and brakes, precision linear and rotary motion control devices and control systems. Responsibilities will include maintaining product forecast, responsible business system metrics and parameters, along with planning and controlling material scheduling activities, while balancing targeted inventory levels and ensuring customer on-time delivery objectives are met.

Reviews priorities, reports problem areas and takes or recommends appropriate action.

Answer inquiries concerning production work status and material availability. Lead daily production meeting and communicate status or changes of material plans, forecast, work in process and customer requirements to appropriate departments and management.

Qualified candidates will have a minimum BA/BS degree - Business or Technical. Four or more years’ experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment preferred, along with at least two years in a materials management position. Strong understanding of Process Management and Lean Principles. APICS and ISM certifications are preferred.

Should be a self-starter, organized and analytical with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Must be able to work in a team environment and always maintain a professional demeanor. Strong computer skills including, word processing, spreadsheets and databases. Must also have strong problem solving, analytical and interpersonal skills, and be able to work independently.

We offer an excellent salary and benefits package. If you are interested in joining a dynamic and forward-looking company, and have a positive and enthusiastic approach to work, fax or send a resume to:

641410 25-26Lp 15-16a-ep 26-27rp

NEXEN GROUP, INC.

Human Resources 26837 Industrial Avenue • Webster, WI 54893 Fax 715-866-6350 materials@nexengroup.com Equal Opportunity Employer

641723 26L 16-17a,b,c

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

NOTICES/EMPLOYMENT

FOR RENT

AQUATIC PLANT MANAGEMENT NOTICE

The Bone Lake Management District is applying for a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to treat up to 31 acres of Bone Lake with an aquatic herbicide to control the invasive plant curly-leaf pondweed. This proposed treatment would occur between April 15, 2015 and June 1, 2016.

Herbicides are used early in the season at a low dose to avoid harm to native plant species. The APM plan recommended continuing this treatment in order to minimize navigation problems, prevent the spread of curly-leaf pondweed and protect native plant populations. Recent studies suggest that CLP treatment may reduce midsummer algae blooms.

A map of the treatment areas and a copy of the permit application are available on our website: Bonelakewi.com or by calling Bob Boyd at 715-857-5495.

641475 26L WNAXLP

500/mo.

$

Utilities included.

No smoking/no pets.

715-327-5555

641704 26-27Lp 16ap

1-BR Apartment In Frederic

Polk County Realty Scott Mellon, Full-Time Realtor Main St., Luck, WI

715-472-8252 • www.polkcountyrealty.net OPEN MONDAY - FRIDAY; SATURDAY 10 A.M. - NOON LATER APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

TANNING (715)

472-2333 641018 15a,d 26L

TAN FOR

& TANNING

3

$

TOP-OF-THE-LINE 12- TO 13-MINUTE STAND-UP & BED

LOCATION AND HOURS OF POLLING PLACES

NOTICE OF SPRING PRIMARY AND SAMPLE BALLOTS OFFICE OF THE BURNETT COUNTY CLERK TO THE VOTERS OF BURNETT COUNTY: Notice is hereby given of a spring primary election to be held in Burnett County on February 16, 2016, at which the officers named below shall be nominated. The names of the candidates for each office, whose nominations have been certified to or filed in this office, are given under the title of the office, each in its proper column, together with the questions submitted to a vote, for a referendum, if any, in the sample ballot below.

INFORMATION TO VOTERS Upon entering the polling place, a voter shall state his or her name and address, show an acceptable form of photo identification and sign the poll book before being permitted to vote. If a voter is not registered to vote, a voter may register to vote at the polling place serving his or her residence, if the voter presents proof of residence in a form specified by law. Where ballots are distributed to electors, the initials of two inspectors must appear on the ballot. Upon being permitted to vote, the voter shall retire alone to a voting booth and cast his or her ballot except that a voter who is a parent or guardian may be accompanied by the voter’s minor child or minor ward. An election official may inform the voter of the proper manner for casting a vote, but the official may not in any manner advise or indicate a particular voting choice.

Where Paper Ballots are Used The voter shall make a cross (X) in the square next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the voter shall write in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote. On referendum questions, the voter shall make a cross (X) in the square next to “yes” if in favor of the question, or the voter shall make a cross (X) in the square next to “no” if opposed to the question.

Where Touch Screen Voting is Used The voter shall touch the screen at the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the voter shall type in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote. On referendum questions, the voter shall touch the screen at “yes” if in favor of the question, or the voter shall touch the screen at “no” if opposed to the question.

The vote should not be cast in any other manner. Not more than five minutes’ time shall be allowed inside a voting booth. Sample ballots or other materials to assist the voter in casting his or her vote may be taken into the booth and copied. The sample ballot shall not be shown to anyone so as to reveal how the ballot is marked.

If the voter spoils a paper ballot, he or she shall return it to an election official who shall issue another ballot in its place, but not more than three ballots shall be issued to any one elector. If the ballot has not been initialed by two inspectors or is defective in any other way, the voter shall return it to the election official, who shall issue a proper ballot in its place.

The voter may spoil a touch screen ballot at the voting station before the ballot is cast.

After Voting the Ballot After an official paper ballot is marked, it shall be folded so the inside marks do not show, but so the printed endorsements and inspectors’ initials on the outside do show. The voter shall deposit the voted ballot in the ballot box, or deliver the ballot to an inspector for deposit, and shall leave the polling place promptly.

After an official touch screen ballot is cast, the voter shall leave the polling place promptly.

A voter may select an individual to assist in casting his or her vote if the voter declares to the presiding official that he or she is unable to read, has difficulty reading, writing or understanding English or that due to disability is unable to cast his or her ballot. The selected individual rendering assistance may not be the voter’s employer or an agent of that employer or an officer or agent of a labor organization which represents the voter.

The following is a sample of the official ballot:

At the election to be held on February 16, 2016, in Polk County, Wisconsin, the following polling place locations will be used for the municipalities indicated.

Polling places will open at 7 a.m. and will close at 8 p.m.

Voters must be registered before they may vote. You may already be registered.

If you have any questions concerning your polling place, or registering, contact the municipal clerk prior to the election.

All polling places are accessible to elderly and disabled voters.

City of St. Croix Falls Voting at: City Hall (Located at 710 Hwy. 35 South, intersection of U.S. Hwy. 8 & Hwy. 35 S.) Bonita Leggitt, Clerk - 715-483-3929, ext. 11 Town of Alden Voting at: Alden Town Hall (Located 1 mile east of Hwy. 65 on Cty. Rd. C & CC) Judy Demulling, Clerk - 715-248-7859 Town of Apple River Voting at: Apple River Town Hall 612 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery Fritz Coulter, Deputy Clerk - 715-268-4896 Town of Balsam Lake Voting at: Balsam Lake Town Hall & Shop (Located at 1494 150th Ave., intersection of 150th Ave. & 150th St.) Brian Masters, Clerk - 715-554-2091 Town of Bone Lake Voting at: Bone Lake Lutheran Church (1/2 mile S. of Hwy. 48, corner of Cty. Rd. I & 255th Ave.) Darrell Frandsen, Clerk - 715-472-8212 Town of Clam Falls Voting at: Clam Falls Town Hall (County Road I to 320th Avenue, east to 80th Street, then south 1/4 mile - hall on east side of street) Jane Schmidt, Clerk - 715-653-2368 Town of Eureka Voting at: Eureka Town Hall 2395 210th Ave. Deb Dibble, Clerk - 715-483-9899 Town of Farmington Voting at: Farmington Town Hall (Located 1/4 mile west of Hwy. 35 on 30th Ave.) Debbie Swanson, Clerk - 715-294-2370 Town of Garfield Voting at: Garfield Town Hall (Next to Fire Hall, in Wanderoos) Sue Knutson, Clerk - 715-268-4857 Town of Georgetown Voting at: Town Hall (Located corner of Cty. Rds. H & I) Kristine Lindgren, Clerk - 715-857-5788 Town of Laketown Voting at: Cushing Community Center (Located at 2410 241st St., Cushing School) Patsy Gustafson, Clerk - 715-648-5569

Town of Lorain Voting at: Lorain Town Hall (Located at the intersection of 20th St. & 345th Ave., next to fire hall) Susan Hughes, Clerk - 715-653-2629 Town of Luck Voting at: Luck Town Hall (Located at St. Rd. 48, next to Luck Medical Clinic) Lloyd Nelson, Clerk - 715-472-2037 Town of McKinley Voting at: McKinley Town Hall (Located at Corner of Hwy. 48 and 15th St.) Anna Weaver, Clerk - 715-822-5909 Town of Milltown Voting at: Milltown Fire Hall (Located at 127 Eider St., on Hwy. 35 north of Milltown) Virgil Hansen, Clerk - 715-825-2494 Town of Osceola Voting at: Town Hall (516 East Ave. N, Dresser) Lorraine Rugroden, Clerk/Treas. - 715-755-3060 Town of St. Croix Falls Voting at: St. Croix Falls Town Hall (Intersection of U.S. Hwy. 8 and 200th St.) Janet Krueger, Clerk - 715-483-1851 Town of Sterling Voting at: Cushing Community Center (From Hwy. 87 turn by Holiday (Cty. Rd. N), go straight onto 241st St.) Julie Peterson, Clerk - 715-488-2735 Town of West Sweden Voting at: West Sweden Town Hall (Located in Frederic, off Hwy. 48 W., on (N.) 3rd Ave.) Phyllis Wilder, Clerk - 715-327-8951 Village of Dresser Voting at: Municipal Office (Located on the corner of Main St. and Central Ave., 2 blocks off of State Rd. 35) Jodi A. Gilbert, Clerk - 715-755-2940 Village of Frederic Voting at: Frederic Village Hall (107 Hope Road West , 1/2 block west of Hwy. 35) Janice Schott, Clerk - 715-327-4294 Village of Luck Voting at: Luck Village Hall (401 South Main St.) Lori Pardun, Clerk - 715-472-2221

The following sample ballot shot is a sample of a ballot which would be voted on the SVRS Handicapped Accessible Voting Machine available for use at all polling locations.

NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL BOARD OF CANVASSERS

At the close of voting on Election Day, pursuant to the provisions of Wis. Stat. § 19.84, the Election Inspectors will convene as a joint meeting of the Local Board of Canvassers and the Municipal Board of Canvassers for the purpose of conducting the local and municipal canvasses to Wis. Stat. §§7.51 and 7.53(1). This meeting will be open to 641479 15a,d 26L WNAXLP the public pursuant to Wis. Stat. §§ 19.81-89.

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WNAXLP

Wanda Hinrichs, Burnett County Clerk County Government Center, Room 150 7410 County Road K #105, Siren, WI 54872, 715-349-2173

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

NOTICE OF SPRING PRIMARY AND SAMPLE BALLOTS

OFFICE OF THE POLK COUNTY CLERK TO THE ELECTORS OF POLK COUNTY: Notice is hereby given of a spring primary to be held in Polk County District on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, at which the officers named below shall be nominated. The names of the candidates for each office, whose nominations have been certified to or filed in this office, are given under the title of the office, each in its proper column, together with the questions submitted to a vote, for a referendum, if any, in the sample ballot below.

INFORMATION TO ELECTORS Upon entering the polling place, a voter shall state his or her name and address, show an acceptable form of photo identification and sign the poll book and show acceptable proof of identification before being permitted to vote. If a voter is not registered to vote, a voter may register to vote at the polling place serving his or her residence, if the voter presents proof of residence in a form specified by law. Where ballots are distributed to electors, the initials of two inspectors must appear on the ballot. Upon being permitted to vote, the elector shall retire alone to a voting booth and cast his or her ballot except that a voter who is a parent or guardian may be accompanied by the elector’s minor child or minor ward. An election official may inform the voter of the proper manner for casting a vote, but the official may not in any manner advise or indicate a particular voting choice.

Where Paper Ballots are Used The voter shall make a cross (X) in the square next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the voter shall write in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote.

Where Optical Scan Voting is Used The voter shall fill in the oval or connect the arrow next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the voter shall write in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote, and fill in the oval or connect the arrow next to the write-in line.

Where Touch Screen Voting is Used The voter shall touch the screen next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the voter shall type in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote.

The vote should not be cast in any other manner. Not more than five minutes’ time shall be allowed inside a voting booth. Sample ballots or other materials to assist the voter in casting his or her vote may be taken into the booth and copied. The sample ballot shall not be shown to anyone so as to reveal how the ballot is marked.

If the voter spoils a paper or optical scan ballot, he or she shall return it to an election official who shall issue another ballot in its place, but not more than three ballots shall be issued to any one voter. If the ballot has not been initialed by two inspectors or is defective in any other way, the voter shall return it to the election official, who shall issue a proper ballot in its place.

The voter may spoil a touch screen ballot at the voting station before the ballot is cast.

After Voting the Ballot After an official paper ballot is marked, it shall be folded so the inside marks do not show, but so the printed endorsements and inspectors’ initials on the outside do show. The voter shall deposit the voted ballot in the ballot box, or deliver the ballot to an inspector for deposit, and shall leave the polling place promptly.

After an official optical scan ballot is marked, it shall be inserted in the security sleeve so the marks do not show. The voter shall insert the ballot in the voting device and discard the sleeve, or deliver the ballot to an inspector for deposit. If a central count system is used, the voter shall insert the ballot in the ballot box and discard the sleeve, or deliver the ballot to an inspector for deposit. The elector shall leave the polling place promptly.

After an official touch screen ballot is cast, the elector shall leave the polling place promptly.

A voter may select an individual to assist in casting his or her vote if the voter declares to the presiding official that he or she is unable to read, has difficulty reading, writing or understanding English, or that due to disability is unable to cast his or her ballot.

The selected individual rendering assistance may not be the voters employer or an officer or agent of a labor organization which represents the voter.

The following is a sample of the official ballot:

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WNAXLP

Carole T. Wondra, Polk County Clerk

VILLAGE OF LUCK TESTING ELECTRONIC VOTING EQUIPMENT FOR FEBRUARY 16, 2016, SPRING PRIMARY ELECTION

REAL ESTATE / NOTICES

A public test of electronic voting equipment will be held on Friday, February 12, 2016, at 10:30 a.m. at the Luck Village Hall at 401 South Main Street.

Lori Pardun, Village Clerk 641638 26L WNAXLP

POLK COUNTY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PROPERTY INSURANCE For Period Of April 1, 2016 - April 1, 2017 Seeking a long-term, stable source of property insurance for Polk County. Vendor registration, information and statements are provided on website: http://www.publicpurchase.com.

Proposals must be sumitted no later than February 29, 2016, at 4:30 p.m. to mailing address: Polk County Department of Administration Attention: Maggie Wickre 100 Polk Plaza, Ste. 220 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 641413 25-26L WNAXLP

TOWN OF ST. CROIX FALLS Polk County, Wis. www.townofstcroixfalls.org PLAN COMMISSION NOTICE OF HEARING February 15, 2016 The Town of St. Croix Falls Plan Commission will hold a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 15, 2016, at the Town Hall at 1305 200th Street & U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. Written evidence, testimony or comments, if any, must be delivered in person or by mail to the Town Hall.

Todd Fulton requests an amendment to his current special exception for a marine supply retail store to also sell firearms and other sporting goods, plus other assorted retail items, at 2091 U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. The property is located in Section 27, T34 N, R 18W. Jim Alt, Zoning Administrator 641398 25-26L WNAXLP

NOTICE

TOWN OF WEST SWEDEN BOARD MEETING All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-6699777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1800-927-9275.

445101 8a-etfcp 19Ltfc

SPRING PRIMARY FEBRUARY 16, 2016

LOCATION AND HOURS OF POLLING PLACES

The Spring Primary will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, in the State of Wisconsin, County of Burnett.

This notice of location and hours of polling places is published on behalf of the municipalities. Following is a list of polling place locations for Burnett County municipalities: Town of Anderson Town Hall 13808 Anderson Rd. Town of Blaine Town Hall (Northland Comm Ctr.) 1232 E. School Rd. Town of Daniels Town Hall 9602 Daniels 70 Rd. Town of Dewey Town Hall 24433 Town Hall Rd. Town of Grantsburg Town Hall 23211 State Rd. 48/87 Town of Jackson Town Hall 4599 County Rd. A Town of LaFollette Town Hall 24184 Malone Rd. Town of Lincoln Town Hall 9110 Perida Rd. Town of Meenon Town Hall 7396 Kruger Rd. Town of Oakland Town Hall 27826 Lone Pine Rd. Town of Roosevelt (Timberland Luth. Church) 20805 Cty. Rd. H Town of Rusk Town Hall 25195 County Rd. H Town of Sand Lake Town Hall 5364 County Rd. X Town of Scott Town Hall 28390 County Rd. H Town of Siren Town Hall 7240 S. Long Lake Rd. Town of Swiss Town Hall 7551 Main Street Town of Trade Lake Town Hall 11811 Town Hall Rd. Town of Union Town Hall 9015 County Rd. F Town of Webb Lake Town Hall 31000 Namekagon Trail Town of West Marshland Town Hall 12259 County Rd. F Town of Wood River Town Hall 11610 State Rd. 70 Village of Grantsburg Village Hall 316 S. Brad St. Village of Siren Village Hall 24049 First Ave. N. Village of Webster Community Center 7421 Main St. W.

The polling places will open at 7 a.m. and will close at 8 p.m. If you have questions concerning your polling place, contact the municipal clerk.

All of the polling places are accessible to elderly and disabled voters.

Town of Anderson Jessica Johnson, Clerk 410 E. Park Ave. Luck, WI 54853 715-472-4753 Town of Blaine Stephanie Askin, Clerk 33249 Little McGraw Lk. Rd. Danbury, WI 54830 715-244-3179 Town of Daniels Liz Simonsen, Clerk 8851 Waldora Road P.O. Box 190 Siren, WI 54872 715-349-2291 Town of Dewey Pamela Brown, Clerk 1148 Swiss Chalet Rd. Shell Lake, WI 54871 715-468-7111 Town of Grantsburg Romey Nelson, ClerkTreasurer 118 E. Madison Avenue P.O. Box 642 Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-463-5600 Town of Jackson Lorraine Radke, Clerk 4742 County Rd. A Webster, WI 54893 715-866-8412

Town of LaFollette Linda Terrian, Clerk 23928 Malone Rd. Siren, WI 54872 715-349-2531 Town of Lincoln Wanda Washkuhn, Clerk 25603 Icehouse Bridge Rd. P.O. Box 296 Webster, WI 54893 715-866-4201 Town of Meenon Suzanna M. Eytcheson, Clerk 25863 E. Bass Lk. Dr. Webster, WI 54893 715-866-4893 Town of Oakland Deanna Krause, Clerk 7426 W. Main St. P.O. Box 675 Webster, WI 54893 715-866-8213 Town of Roosevelt Patricia Hayden, Clerk 2997 County Road EE Shell Lake, WI 54871 715-468-2468 Town of Rusk Bonnie Harder, Clerk 26985 E. Benoit Lake Rd. Spooner, WI 54801 715-635-4723

Town of Sand Lake Peggy Tolbert, Clerk P.O. Box 165 Webster, WI 54893 715-222-9375 Town of Scott Karen Wiggins, Clerk 28390 County Rd. H Spooner, WI 54801 Office 715-635-2308 Town of Siren Mary Hunter, Clerk 23340 Soderberg Rd. Siren, WI 54872 715-349-5119 Town of Swiss Judy Dykstra, Clerk 7551 Main St. P.O. Box 157 Danbury, WI 54830 Office: 715-656-3030 Town of Trade Lake Deborah Christian, Clerk 13361 St. Rd. 48 Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-488-2600 Town of Union Mary Eifler, Deputy Clerk 8639 County Rd. U Danbury, WI 54830 715-866-4547

Town of Webb Lake Gail Keup, Clerk 2363 Escape Drive Webb Lake, WI 54830 715-259-3439 Town of West Marshland Kerri Harter, Clerk P.O. Box 612 Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-463-2461 Town of Wood River Raylene Swanson, Clerk 24788 Rylander Rd. Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-689-2318 Village of Grantsburg Jennifer Zeiler, Clerk 316 S. Brad St. Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-463-2405 Village of Siren Ann Peterson, Clerk/Treas.

24049 First Ave. P.O. Box 23 Siren, WI 54872 715-349-2273 Village of Webster Patrice Bjorklund, Clerk/ Treas.

7505 Main St. W. P.O. Box 25 Webster, WI 54893 715-866-4211 641702 26L WNAXLP

Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2016, At West Sweden Town Hall 6:30 p.m.

Agenda: Call to order; clerk’s minutes; treasurer’s report; public comments; employee report; review county zoning; update emergency operations plan; audit clerk and treasurer’s books; pay bills, adjournment.

641756 26L Phyllis Wilder, Clerk (Jan. 27, Feb. 3, 10) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff vs.

JEFFREY A. OSTMAN, et al.

Defendant(s) Case No: 15 CV 190 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on August 20, 2015, in the amount of $92,977.64, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: February 23, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: By bidding at the sheriff sale, prospective buyer is consenting to be bound by the following terms: 1.) 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2.) Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3.) Plaintiff opens bidding on the property, either in person or via fax and as recited by the sheriff department in the event that no opening bid is offered, plaintiff retains the right to request the sale be declared as invalid as the sale is fatally defective.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: The following described real estate in Polk County, State of Wisconsin: Commencing at the Northwest corner of the NE1/4 of NE1/4, Section 3-35-18, thence East a distance of 930 feet, thence South a distance of 500 feet: thence West a distance of 444 feet; thence South a distance of 820 feet; thence West a distance of 486 feet; thence North a distance of 1,320 feet to the point of beginning, excluding all easements granted for highway purposes, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2016 240th Avenue, Luck, WI 54853.

TAX KEY NO.: 020-00043-0000.

Dated this 10th day of December, 2015. /s/Sheriff Peter M. Johnson Polk County Sheriff Jordan C. Staleos J. Peterman Legal Group Ltd. State Bar No.: 1085629 165 Bishops Way, Suite 100 Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.jpeterman legalgroup.com to obtain the bid for this sale. J. Peterman Legal Group Ltd. is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

640990 WNAXLP

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

Balsam Lake Winterfest 2016:

Snapshots

LEFT: Some winter coats are more fashionable than others, as Chris Thorson, Edina, Minn. and Jackie Crosby of Minneapolis showed. This is Thorson’s fourth straight year that he has worn this “beer bottle” outfit for Balsam Lake Winterfest activities last Saturday, Feb. 6.

Photos by Greg Marsten RIGHT: This surfboard brought a touch of summer to the ice of Balsam Lake.

BELOW: These two were able to take a moment away from the ATV races to flash a smile.

Help Wanted

PART TIME PART-TIME 2 Styles to Choose From. While Supplies Last.

Customer Service Rep/ customers on the Store Clerk Assist phone and in the store Approximately 15 hours a week

Apply at or send resume to:

Wilson Jones Columnar Pads Each • Styles & Size Vary By Store

taking ads, with subscriptions and selling office supplies.

Great communication and customer service skills needed. Cash-handling experience helpful. Must be able to deal with deadline pressures while remaining positive.

640582 14-15a,d 25-26L

Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association

App De licati ebr adlineon uar y 15

P.O. Box 490 • 303 Wisconsin Ave N. Frederic, WI 54837 F 715-327-4236 • fax 715-327-4870 iccpaonline@centurytel.net

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Box of 100 • UNV-72220 Prices Good Through February 26, 2016

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION 303 Wisconsin Ave. N Frederic, Wis.

715-327-4236

24154 State Rd. 35N Siren, Wis.

715-349-2560

107 N. Washington St. St. Croix Falls, Wis.

715-483-9008

11 West 5th Ave. - Lake Mall Shell Lake, Wis.

715-468-2314

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - FEBRUARY 10, 2016

G’Day! Frederic students delve into chapter on Australia FREDERIC - It has been a busy couple of weeks at Frederic Elementary School as the Australian Walkabout continues. Students were treated to a rare opportunity of pictures with a baby kangaroo.

Bob Pilz from Sustainable Safari brought in not only his kangaroo, Simon, but also his alligator. Following that event was Beach Day. It was a big hit with a “barbie” lunch in the hallways and a designa-surfboard contest. Students from each classroom designed a surfboard on paper and then a class winner was chosen.

That winner was able to pick some friends and paint an actual surfboard-sized foam board. Two overall surfboard winners will be announced soon.

Next up? How about an allCrikey! Frederic students had the opportunity to hold an alligator during their ongoing chapter school field trip to the New on Australia. Shown with Rex, the alligator, are (L to R): Hannah Scherff, Neela Chadwick, James Richmond Centre for some King, Jeremiah Magnuson, Trenton Randolph, Amelia Tibbets-Clark and Tyler Diesterhaft live it water park fun? It will be a G’Day! up with Rex, the alligator, during a recent visit.

Simon the kangaroo eats an apple for his lunch. Simon proved to be a hit with students, on loan from Bob Pilz of Sustainable Safari.

Emily Hill, Amelia Chartrand, Hattie Antonich, Zoe Schoengarth, Piper Carlstrom and Samantha Nelson sat on beach towels, talking, while enjoying their “barbie” lunch.

Carson Anderson holds Rex, the alligator, while Leif Lahti looks on.

AN EMPLOYEE-OWNED COMPANY • 24138

Ellis Avenue, Siren, WI 54872

Plastic Injection Molding Full-time, long-term, production workers for our 2nd and 3rd shifts. $9.50 starting wage.

Benefits offered by North States Industries include: • Clean & safe work environment • Paid vacation after 1 year • Dental insurance • Health insurance • Life insurance • 401(k) • Paid holidays including your birthday • Excellent retirement with Employee Stock Ownership Plan • Discretionary year-end bonus depending on business climate.

Students appreciated Beach Day while posing with student-made surf boards. Shown (L to R) back row: Dallis Strehlo, Zoe Schoengarth, Samantha Nelson, Piper Carlstrom, Jeffery Wilson, Leif Lahti, Freddie Nelson and Malachai Hannah. Front row: Jack Jorgenson, Amelia Chartrand, Aiden Lake, Aryanna Schallenberger, Carson Anderson and Eric Currie.

($1,500 average bonus over the past 4 years)

Contact and/or send resume to Mark Foote 715-349-5591 • mfoote@northstatesind.com TAKE PRIDE IN MANUFACTURING LOCAL PRODUCTS IN A WORLD-RENOWNED MARKET. WE HOPE TO MAKE YOU A PART OF OUR TEAM! North States Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer

640567 22Ltfc 12a,b,c,dtfc

Jeffery Wilson, Eric Currie, Amelia Chartrand, and Piper Carlstrom have a good time with Simon, the kangaroo.

FEBRUARY 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2016 • 10, INTER-COUNTY LEADER NORTHERN CURRENTS • SECTION B1

Currents Northern

600 people and 150 vendors attend event at Lakeview Event Center E. Royal Emerson | Staff writer SIREN - The South Fork Sporting Club sponsored its annual gun show on Saturday, Feb. 6, held at the Lakeview Event Center in Siren. Vendors numbered 150, and nearly 600 people attended the event to browse a wide display of mostly hunting rifles and other related sporting equipment.

“The South Fork Sporting Club has been around since the 1980s,” said Carl Eklof, who currently serves as the club’s president. “It started out as a group of guys who wanted to help out the local area in regards to conservation. We started the gun show as a fundraiser. It’s been going on every year now for the past 20.”

“It’s a lot of work to put this on,” said Scott Wilder, who serves as secretary/ treasurer of the club. “There are a lot of volunteer hours that have to be put in to pull off an event like this.”

“Everything we make for profit from the show goes back to the local community. We provide a variety of hunter education and safety classes,” Eklof said.

The South Fork Sporting Club has 175 members. It operates a shooting range near the South Fork of the Clam River near Siren. About 150 members gather every Thursday for trapshooting.

The sporting club conducts hunter safety classes every year in early May and late October. The classes are conducted in Frederic and Siren. Each session lasts for two hours. The students who participate must put in 30 hours to obtain hunter safety certification. About 60 students participate in the club’s hunter safety education classes each session. Forty percent of students who participate are young women.

The club also makes an annual donation to Family Pathways, the local Lions

Stories from the NW Wisconsin community

Judy Keilholtz of Frederic holds up a walnut rifle stock hand-carved by her partner, Bill Bosak. “It’s like going to a garage sale but with guns,” Keilholtz said of the gun show.

stay overnight at the hotel. We go out to eat at the restaurants. It’s always a good turnout. Heck, there were people lined up at the door this morning waiting to get in.”

Three older men who jocularly identified themselves as “the three amigos” occupied two vendor tables. They drove up from southern Minnesota and have been coming to the gun show “for a long time.”

“It’s a nice gun show,” the first amigo said. “Guys are looking for odds and ends. The people who come here are really interesting. It’s probably the most interesting collection of beards you’ll ever see. It’s a really fun show.

“Yeah, it’s gotten much better since they’ve stopped selling that bean soup,” the second amigo joked.

“Yeah, it’s much better smelling this

See Gun show, page 2

Photos by E. Royal Emerson Club and the local Christmas toy drive.

“Most people who come to the gun show are collectors, connoisseurs of firearms,” Eklof said. “Many of the guns are just for display. With the local heritage around here most of our visitors are hunters or sport shooters.

“We appreciate all the volunteer support. We value all the vendors coming out and all of the public support. Without such support an event like this doesn’t happen,” Eklof added.

One of the best gun shows in Wisconsin A vendor who identified himself as Mr. Benson has been coming to the gun show for “probably a dozen years now.” He makes the trip from central Minnesota.

“This is probably one of the best gun shows in northern and central Wisconsin,” Benson said. “It’s a big event for Siren. It brings in some good money. We

The “three amigos” come to the gun show every year, driving up from southern Minnesota.

“It’s a fine show, much better smelling after they stopped serving the bean soup,” they joked.

Carl Eklof is president, and Scott Wilder, secretary/treasurer of the South Fork Sporting Club, which sponsored the gun show in Siren. “With our local heritage around here most of our visitors are hunters or sport shooters,” Eklof said.

There were 150 vendors and nearly 600 people attending the South Fork Sporting Club gun show on Saturday, Feb. 6, at the Lakeview Event Center.

641659 26L

PAGE 2 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Gun Show/from page 1 year,” chimed in the third amigo.

To tell the truth, I don’t like guns Judy Keilholtz of Frederic was attending to one of the vendor booths. “To tell you the truth, I don’t really like guns. I won’t shoot them,” she said. “My father was a World War II veteran and that war really messed him up.” Keilholtz explained that her father committed suicide by gun when she was 8 years old. She was attending the gun show to be supportive of her partner, Bill Bosak, who makes hand-carved rifle stocks from claro walnut.

“I like to come here because it’s just like a garage sale but with guns,” Keilholtz said. “We come every year. It’s a great opportunity to see people. I just ran into my cousin a while ago,” she added.

When asked if there was anything he’d like to say to people who may never have experienced a gun show, Wilder said, ”Step in and get the experience.”

LEFT, ABOVE AND RIGHT: A variety of items are for sale at the gun show, including glass-bead regalia and pearl handle pistols.

Photos by E. Royal Emerson

LEFT AND ABOVE : Most people who come to the gun show are collectors, connoisseurs of firearms, according to Carl Eklof, president of the South Fork Sporting Club.

Many of the guns are just for display.

Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo set for 10th-anniversary celebration GRANTSBURG – Besides exciting Bingo action, this year’s Longaberger Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo promises players some added surprises in celebration of the cancer fundraiser’s 10th anniversary.

“We are excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary,” said Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo organizer Sandy Eng. “We wanted to make the day really special so we’ve planned some extra fun for the afternoon.”

In addition to Bingo prizes of beautiful Longaberger baskets and great prizes to be won in raffle drawings including an elite Timberwolves game package for two including courtside seats, valet parking and a special dining experience valued at $1,500, those attending will enjoy special music, prizes and treats, making this 10th-annual Basket Bingo the fun fundraiser not to be missed.

The Longaberger baskets given as Bingo prizes are purchased with contributions from generous donors, given in honor of or in memory of friends and family affected by cancer.

The Longaberger Company’s Horizon of Hope Campaign, in partnership with

the American Cancer Society, created a mission to reach out with messages of prevention and early detection while at the same time raising funds, to date over $17 million, through proceeds from the sale of Horizon of Hope products for breast cancer initiatives supported by the ACS. All proceeds from the Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo fundraiser will be donated to the ACS for the Polk-Burnett County Relay for Life and used to help local residents affected by cancer.

Doors open at noon so players can purchase their Bingo packets and raffle tickets early and enjoy lunch available for purchase from Tesora Restaurant. Bingo begins promptly at 1 p.m.

The Burnett County Sentinel, Northwoods Crossing Event Center and the Tesora Restaurant are sponsors for this year’s Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo event.

There’s still time to sponsor a basket, donate a door prize or make a monetary donation. To do so, please call Sandy Eng at 715-327-4431 or Priscilla Bauer at 715222-2195 to arrange for pickup. – submitted

Sandy Eng, Hope for a Cure Basket Bingo organizer, promises players some added surpirses in celebration of the cancer fundraiser’s 10th anniversary, set for Sunday, Feb. 28, at Northwoods Crossing Event Center in Siren. - File photo by Priscilla Bauer

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

You are what you eat

H

ow many of us are “on a diet” these days? I crack up when I notice that someone who is on a diet, and supposed to be eating something healthy and nutritious, are actually ruining their health by eating something labeled “healthy alternatives.” Sugar is bad for you, right? So they switch to artificial sweeteners. And guess what’s in those tiny packages? You guessed it - chemicals that are made with artificial ingredients. How about margarine?

If you think that butter is bad for you, how about eating a large spoonful of “flavored” petroleum? If you really like fruit juices, squeeze your own. I started to read the food labels just to justify my opinions on what I’m writing about and I am appalled that, after two to three ingredients that are actually related to the label, the rest are all chemical ingredients that I do not recognize, or have names that I can’t even pronounce.

So, what can we do? What is safe to eat? Actually, all foods are good for us, but only in moderation. I love pizza and fried chicken, but can you imagine eating them five or six times a week, with bread sticks or mashed potatoes with gravy on the side, and then wash them down with two or three local brews, or Diet Pepsi or Diet Coke? And how about

Wok & roll Peter H. Kwong those snacks before and after the meal?

The potato chips, M&Ms, chocolate cookies, ice cream ... aah, all my favorites! And talk about moderation. The French are known for their tasty cuisine, wines and desserts. How do those ladies stay so trim and skinny? The key is moderation, something that we can all learn. Instead of feasting on candy bars, just have a piece of great chocolate.

Instead of a huge steak or fish, have an 8-oz. piece with vegetables on the side, and one piece of great bread instead of eating a whole loaf with dinner.

We just happen to be the most obese country in the world. Yes, in the whole wide world. How can that be, when we have all these diet and health programs to help us stay trim and fit? I think that it is all our own fault – we are the land of plenty and abundance. We are what we eat, but there’s no one there to tell us when, and what, we can or cannot eat anymore. There are no more moms and grandmas who love us and tell us what to do. We are independent and we are

free, so we can do what we want, and eat what and whenever we want. And guess what happens? Oh, we do miss our moms and grandmas.

Well, enough lecturing. It is Chinese New Year, eat and drink and be merry, but all in moderation. Let’s be healthy and stay healthy. Believe it or not, with health, wealth will be right behind.

Now, let’s talk about the food that we eat during the Chinese New Year.

The Chinese are very traditional (I dare not say superstitious) and we will eat anything that will bring us good fortune and prosperity. So, what’s there to eat?

What’s on the menu on a New Year’s banquet? Here are the key ingredients.

And restaurants would create fancy names to enhance luck, joy and happiness.

Lettuce – pronounced as “sahn choy,” which rhymes with words meaning generate fortune. Who doesn’t want fortune knocking on your door?

Dried oysters – pronounced “hoa xi,” which rhymes with prosperous market.

A must for those who invest in the stock markets.

Dried sea urchin, or dried sea cucumber – pronounced “hi zin,” which means open heart, or totally delighted or absolute happiness.

Fish – pronounced “yu,” which rhymes with leftovers. Every household prefers having leftovers in their bank

accounts over being in debt, right? We always serve the fish whole, with the head and the tail. Whatever relationship we are in, we always finish what we started with. That’s most important in careers and businesses.

Shrimp – pronounced “ha.” The sound we make when we laugh, a joyous sound in our household.

Broccoli – pronounced “jei lan,” which rhymes with get rid of hardships.

“No more hard times henceforth,” my mother would say when she dished a spoonful of broccoli into my rice bowl.

Pork tongue – pronounced “chu lei.”

Lei rhymes with profit. Be profitable.

So, what a way to start a new year with a few of these easy to make dishes: Broccoli with Shrimp Cantonese.

Steamed whole fish with wilted lettuce in oyster sauce.

Pot stickers with dipping sauce.

Remember that pot stickers resemble a stuffed wallet or purse? Hope your new year will be filled with laughter and no hardships. You will generate a great fortune with a lot of leftover profits.

Kung hey fat choy! Happy Year of the Monkey!

Donors urged to help the American Red Cross maintain blood supply POLK COUNTY - The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help ensure a sufficient blood supply for patients by giving blood this February.

During the winter months, inclement winter weather and seasonal illnesses can keep regular donors from giving blood. Healthy donors of all blood types are needed to help maintain an adequate

blood supply for patients in their own communities as well as areas where donors were unable to give due to severe winter weather. Individuals with types O, AB, B negative and A negative blood are especially needed.

Donor Loretta Brandon knows how important it is to have a readily available blood supply. Her late husband required

transfusions from generous strangers, multiple times, for health conditions. She gives blood as often as she can. “Every time I give blood, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all I have and for the fact that I can share with others,” she said.

There is an upcoming opportunity to donate blood on Tuesday, Feb. 16, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the St. Croix Falls High

School, 740 Maple Drive.

Make an appointment to help maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in need this winter by downloading the free Red Cross blood donor app, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). – from American Red Cross

Nominations sought for Siren’s Wall of Honor SIREN - The Siren School Board of Education is accepting nominations for the Siren School Wall of Honor. The board feels it is important to recognize the accomplishments of the alumni, employees, citizens and groups/organizations that live(d) within the school district. Those

recognized will have demonstrated or contributed to one or more of the following areas: Education, business, human services, government, athletics, military service or fine arts. It is within these parameters that the committee is asking the people of the school district of Siren to

identify and recognize those individuals who have truly contributed to the fine character of the school and district.

Nomination forms are available in the district office at the school and on the school’s website, siren.k12.wi.us. The deadline for nominations to be turned

in to the district office is March 11. Any questions about the Wall of Honor should be directed to the district office at 715-3497392. - with submitted information

Annual booya feed and raffle set DANBURY - Cozy Corner Trails Inc. will hold their 41st-annual booya feed and raffle on Saturday, March 5, at Hillside Inn, approximately 15 miles north of Danbury. Food will be served and

Drama in the frosty air

T

he hairy woodpecker and two downies were frozen as if statues aside the upright posts of our deck.

With tiny bits of frost visible on short bristles we call whiskers, the only signs of movement were small puffs of fog from their breaths.

One bird clung to a peanut feeder. All were on the west side of their perches. Robin Maercklein Undoubtedly, a feathered predator had arrived somewhere nearby to the east.

I headed to the bedroom window but what I saw were four more woodpeckers clinging to trees in the woods beyond the bird feeders. Again, all were on the west side of their chosen sanctuaries, keeping their perches between them and the predator. Moving to an east window, I searched through the pines, juniper and hardwood forest in front of me for the hawk I knew must be out there biding its time to strike.

This was a repeated scene with which I had become familiar at our feeders.

Time and again all activity at the feeders would cease and every bird would become motionless, hoping not to be seen.

door prizes drawn from noon to 5 p.m.

Grand-prize drawings will take place at 5 p.m. Raffle tickets are available in advance from any club member and at Hillside Inn, Fishbowl Bar and Moose

Writers’

Carousel Somewhere in the subzero temperatures was a bird hawk, also known as an accipiter. With their long tails and relatively short wings, accipiters are especially agile, quickly maneuvering through tight spins and cartwheels as they chase after their prey in aerial ballets through dense trees and other obstacles.

The largest accipiters, northern goshawks, are rare and Cooper’s hawks are not common, but the smaller sharpshinned hawks can be abundant during migration and fairly common as winter residents in our woods of northwestern Wisconsin.

For weeks now I had searched in vain for a hawk whenever birds at the feeder froze in place or hid where they could. As they slid in unison to adjacent sides of their vertical perches, I knew they were watching their enemy on the move. But still I could not find the elusive hawk.

Suddenly a shadow moved on a tree trunk in front of me. I traced the sun’s angle back and found him. A small adult sharp-shinned hawk about the

Junction Bar, as well as at the event. All proceeds are used to purchase and maintain equipment for trail maintenance in northern Burnett and southern Douglas counties and to help sponsor community size of a blue jay was perched just 6 feet away. Puffed up against the cold, the adult’s finely barred reddish breast was facing toward me, and he twisted and turned his head to get a better look at me.

“Irene, I found a sharpie!” I called out to my wife as I marveled at the bird’s long, barred tail with three dark gray bands across it. Irene got a view when it moved to a higher perch and I pointed out its dark blue-gray backside.

Moments later it dropped off its perch and swooped in an arc below us as if on a roller coaster. A flash of a spreading tail for a quick turn scared up one of the woodpeckers and the chase was on. The rollicking roller coaster made a quick loop and then banked into the depths of a white pine and both birds disappeared. Long seconds passed while the rest of the birds melted into their perches.

Did the woodpecker survive? A minute later I could see the adult sharpshinned hawk flying out over the lake, disappearing with no bird in its grasp.

As if a whistle had blown, chickadees, nuthatches, blue jays and woodpeckers all resumed their feeding, building up their fat supply so necessary to survive the cold weather. Five minutes later they all became statues again.

Did I mention that the previous day Irene had pointed out that an immature sharp-shinned hawk with its heavily streaked breast was perched on one of

events.

Follow them on Facebook at Cozy Corner Trails for further updates and information. – submitted

our feeders?

About the writer: A lifelong birder, Robin Maercklein has watched and studied birds and their behavior for over 45 years.

He is now learning to enjoy writing and sharing those experiences.

Writers’ Carousel, a revolving menagerie of pieces for your enjoyment, is created by participants in Carolyn Wedin’s Write Right Now, WITC Community Education classes in Frederic and Luck.

PAGE 4 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Good medicine

The view

N

eed a good laugh? Stop by my place the next time my 2-yearold grandson is here or hang out with a group of first-graders for a day.

Cheaper than Prozac for warding off those seasonal blues and a whole lot more fun, too. Kids can amuse and entertain, especially if you’re in the right frame of mind. Their forthright honesty coupled with a lack of adult inhibition can make for some pretty hilarious moments. And sometimes they have the best jokes, witness this one from a sixthgrader I worked with last week: What do you call cheese that doesn’t belong to you? Nacho cheese.

Laughter is not only good for the soul, it has significant health benefits as well. And the great thing is you can do it alone or in groups, small and large. In fact, the practice of laughter yoga has become increasingly popular across the country over the last several years. It’s simple, free, and doesn’t even require humor. Laughter yoga sessions begin the same way a hatha yoga class might, with breathing exercises, stretches and body movement.

Participants progress to laughter exercises that sometimes start with “forced” laughter but soon result in long stretches of involuntary belly laughs.

Research has shown that the body doesn’t discriminate between voluntary and involuntary laughter where health benefits are concerned, and the benefits are many, including improved cardiovascular health, higher pain threshold and a sense of well-being, perhaps due to the increased level of endorphins, a

from here Steve Pearson kind of natural opiate, that are produced by the brain when we yuk it up. Which reminds me, my nephew recently took up meditation. I told him it’s better than sitting and doing nothing.

Each of us has our own favorite funny moments or laugh-out-loud movies. In our family, you’re sure to get a laugh if you bring up the time when a piece of broccoli my wife was cutting with a butter knife ended up on a neighboring table in a Duluth restaurant. You’re not laughing. And who can blame you, really? What we find to be funny is highly subjective, and sometimes defies retelling. “You had to be there” is part of the popular vernacular, a way of saying that what is funny in the moment often falls flat when we try to recapture it at a later date. But everybody laughed at the hotel room scene with John Candy and Steve Martin in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” right? Those weren’t pillows!

Everyone has the ability to laugh.

Almost. A rare neurological affliction called aphonogelia leaves its victims laughless. It’s not that they don’t get the jokes, but instead they lack what for most is the innate physiological capability to laugh, or the synapse between the realization that joke is funny and the laughter it provokes doesn’t fire. Fortu-

nately, there are just a handful of people who have suffered from this disorder including, coincidentally, a 14-year-old girl I once taught who, when she heard one of my best jokes, said, “That was so funny I forgot to laugh.”

Laughter draws us in, and the person with the quick wit can be a magnet for others. We’d all like to be that person from time to time, and it begs the question: Can sense of humor be taught?

Some say yes, and it’s possible to find programs that teach “comedic spontaneity.” Since timing is everything, these programs usually start with mental calisthenics designed to quicken response time. For example, think of all the possible uses for a pencil and a coffee cup, then see if you can connect those two lists in a way that is humorous. These kinds of free association exercises that connect two seemingly disparate things lead to the old standby jokes like the one about the grasshopper who walks into a bar and orders a drink, and the bartender says, “Hey, we’ve got a drink named after you!” “Is that so,” says the grasshopper, “Why would you name a drink Bob?” Sometimes, a good joke is about finding humor in the ordinary. One of the best comics out there, Mary Mack, aka Webster native Miki Budge, is a master at this, using common occurrences we all can relate to. “So I’ve been taking clarinet lessons, and I always take my clarinet along with me when I’m driving in case I hit a deer because I don’t have a crow bar to put it out of its misery,” she tells her audience. “Yeah, last time, I barely got through two songs and it was gone, poor thing.” She’s also not

shy about using her loved ones as the butt of her jokes. “I don’t know if I told you, but I got married recently. So we’re gonna go on our honeymoon,” she tells the audience, “but I’m trying to get out of it. Because it’s three weeks long!

That’s 21 days! Ooh, I love you, but not all in a row!”

Of course, Abraham Maslow, the humanistic psychologist, taught that self-actualized people use humor that isn’t at the expense of others. No Ole and Lena jokes for him, you know, like the one about how Ole takes a flight from Minneapolis to Seattle and when the plane lands, he turns to Lena and says, “Well, dere goes twenty-nine dollars down da drain for dat flight insurance!” Or lawyer jokes. You wouldn’t hear Maslow tell this one: “Are you a lawyer?” “Yes.” “How much do you charge?” “A hundred dollars for four questions.” “Isn’t that kind of expensive?” “Yes. What’s your fourth question?”

Laughter is a great uniter, and there’s nothing like a good joke to bring us together. It relieves tension, promotes health and brings us into the moment. I just spent the weekend with a couple of funny men who happen to be my close friends. We walked and talked, ate good food, and, best of all, we laughed, sometimes long and loud. And after a week of too much activity and too little sleep, it was just what I needed.

Laughter can cure what ails you if you let it out. So did you hear the one about the guy who entered a pun contest?

He sent in ten puns, hoping that one of them would win. Unfortunately, no pun in ten did.

Large environmental education grant comes to the St. Croix Valley ST. CROIX VALLEY - An environmental education grant of $192,200 has been awarded to the St. Croix Valley Foundation on behalf of a consortium of nonprofit organizations in the St. Croix watershed.

The EPA Office of Environmental Education made just three grants in the nation under a request for proposals looking for innovative ways to protect natural resources. A required local match brings the budget to nearly $260,000 for a twoyear pilot project called St. Croix Master Watershed Stewards, an effort that will certify at least 36 Master Watershed Stewards in Minnesota and Wisconsin in 2016

and 2017.

“Our pilot project is based on best practices coming out of Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs throughout the country,” said project liaison Danette Olsen, who authored the grant proposal.

“During our research phase, we learned from the Penn State Master Watershed Stewards program, the Minnehaha Creek Master Water Stewards program and the Watershed Stewards Academy of Anne Arundel County (Maryland), among many others.”

The St. Croix Master Watershed Stewards pilot project combines environmen-

tal education, leadership development and community organizing in a comprehensive watershed stewardship curriculum with a capstone service-learning project. This hybrid curriculum is made even more innovative by including activities that incorporate the arts in an effort to demonstrate the power of the arts to engage the community, thereby creating even greater awareness and impact.

To become a certified Master Watershed Steward, adult learners will commit to six daylong field trips, two of which are overnight expeditions, and six online sessions. This process will take place over the course of six to seven months and is followed by a capstone learning project that is designed in collaboration with a host site. An exciting part of the program

is that small grants will be available for the stewards to implement their capstone project. Another exciting aspect is that all fees associated with the SCMWS program are paid for through the EPA-EE grant.

Patty Mueller has been hired to serve as the project manager for SCMWS and she comes to the project with many years of experience in environmental education.

“I am eager to get this project off the ground,” said Mueller, “and feel so proud that our region received funding to help communities and organizations work together to protect the St. Croix River and all the subwatersheds.”

To learn more about the St. Croix Master Watershed Stewards pilot project, visit their website at stcroixstewards.org. – from St. Croix Valley Foundation

Recruiting candidates for St. Croix Master Watershed Stewards ST. CROIX VALLEY – The St. Croix Master Watershed Stewards program is seeking adults, 18-plus, to participate in a community of active learners, observing and practicing successful strategies aimed at protecting the St. Croix River watershed. Application materials can be found online at stcroixstewards.org.

Applications for the first session will be accepted through Monday, Feb. 22.

Stewards will participate in 58 hours of hands-on learning and 12 hours of distance learning over a nine-month period including a capstone project. The first group of stewards will begin classes in late March. Program topics include watershed resource education, leadership education, civic organizing principles and using the arts in sustainable proj-

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The goal of the SCMWS program is to dramatically increase the environmental stewardship ethic and activities in the St. Croix River watershed.

Please visit the website for more information on the project including how organizations/agencies can become host sites for capstone projects. – from the St. Croix Valley Foundation

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FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Do you remember?

Interfaith Caregivers milestones

S

ince you last heard from us, we’ve unpacked from our move and settled into what truly is the nicest office space ever. Most folks reading this have moved their household at least once in their lifetime and the majority of them have distinct, unpleasant memories attached to said move. But have you ever been involved in a business move? Organized chaos!

The Interfaith Caregivers program has moved before. We started out in Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Croix Falls, then the Uhrhammer Insurance Agency (thanks, Lee and family) also in St. Croix Falls, then the Polk Business Center in Balsam Lake and now in the Milltown Ambulance Building.

Somehow, moving wasn’t a horrible experience for Interfaith Caregivers. We had volunteer help every step of the way and, on moving day, we were ready.

We’d like to publicly extend gratitude to every person who helped us move; we sincerely couldn’t have done it without all of you. Greatland Transportation, your guys were lovely; Interfaith’s board of directors, you are always lovely, but thank you so much for all you did that day; and Patti, of our office, also deserves a high five. She made sure walls were painted, carpet was laid, phones were installed correctly and that volunteers all had assignments on moving day. It went very smoothly as heavy desks and file cabinets found office homes.

Being in this new space has created a new chapter for Interfaith Caregivers. It has us both looking back and looking ahead. With our 20th anniversary upon us, we wanted to share some interesting tidbits of our last 20 years and invite you to celebrate with us.

In 1992, the Polk County Aging Department began a three-year planning process. Required by the state of Wisconsin, part of the process was to meet with other county departments serving elderly and disabled people to help identify unmet needs in the county.

An aging task force was established with the purpose of finding ways to fill the “gaps” that were present in the existing service delivery system. Information regarding Interfaith Caregivers program was presented to the task force as a way to address some of the problems that existed in the lives of our elderly and residents with disabilities. Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County was conceived as a result.

The aging task force applied for a $25,000 grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. In December 1995, an 18-month grant was awarded to start a volunteer caregiving program in Polk County.

A board was established, and a mission statement and bylaws were written. The organization completed its articles of incorporation and was approved for nonprofit charitable status.

We have had a series of leaders at the helm. Carol

Interfaith Cares

Compiled by Sue Renno

of Polk County

50 years ago

Michele Gillickson Medchill was our first director, Sharon Koepple, a few others, and then Shirley Johnson. Karen Krupa has been program director since 2004.

Since we’re celebrating 20 years of service to Polk County, we thought a shindig was in order. We’re having an open house prior to our annual meeting on Monday, Feb. 15, 2-4 p.m., with our annual meeting at 4 p.m. Come take the tour and have a snack. Our new address is 133 Eider St. in Milltown. We’re sharing space with the EMS people, so please don’t block the ambulance doors when you park.

Krupa’s milestone Krupa writes, “The end of Jan. I reached my 60th birthday. Yes, a milestone. It seems like yesterday that I was 30 and pondering being an elementary teacher, single forever. But God had other plans for me. There were things I needed to learn for my upcoming career change to Interfaith Caregivers.”

“Soon my life experiences included marriage and in-laws, raising two children, school computers, soccer teams and volunteers, my mom’s caregiving for my grandparents and dad as they aged and died, my own health scare after two ministrokes, and currently being a long-distance caregiver for my mom.

“Yes, God had a plan, that I would be ready to lead a small Interfaith Caregivers program. He wanted this program to grow to help more people. It’s a challenge I embrace, even on the hardest days at work. I’ve met so many wonderful people, volunteers, clients and donors, that want to help make a positive difference in their communities. Our program has a wonderful staff of caring people.

“I feel that God blesses Interfaith Caregivers work.

We are neighbors helping neighbors. And I want Interfaith Caregivers to continue to remain strong and healthy. After all, when I’m in my 90s, I’ll need a helping hand to stay at home, too.”

Our address, for snail mail, is P.O. Box 426, Balsam Lake, WI 54810, email me at michele@interfaithpolk. org or call me at 715-485-9500.

Interfaith Caregivers needs more volunteers to give rides to elderly folks in St. Croix Falls, Milltown and Luck. If you, or anyone you know, would be interested in helping them get to appointments and shopping, please call Patti at 715-825-9500 as soon as possible.

As a club activity, the Wood Creek 4-H Club made cards to send to Cards for Hospitalized Kids. The 4-H clover connects kids everywhere to community service opportunities that spread smiles. Get involved with making a meaningful difference this year. Join 4-H.

Clover

Connections Olivia Kopecky

Queen candidates for the Unity Sno-Ball were Nancy Rumple, Linda Christianson, Janis Wonka, Joyce Tandberg, Kathy Fox, Kay Vollrath, Lu Ann Maier and Pat Wilson. The dance was Jan. 29 in the high school gym, with music by the Music Masters.– Members of the Milltown Commercial Club re-elected all their officers for another year: Roy Brask, president; Ben Stener, vice president; Kenneth Rogers, treasurer; and Margers Vavere, secretary.–The 10 candidates for Luck Winter Carnival queen were Renee Olson, Wendy Pautsch, Paulette Berklund, Terri Route, Marnie Johansen, Kathlene Petersen, Linda Erickson, Carol Nelson, Mary Dolny and Janice Hendricks.–A speech therapist, Carlyn Bryngelson, was hired to serve the schools at Clear Lake, Osceola, Turtle Lake, St. Croix Falls and Grantsburg, each one day a week. Teachers would make referrals and parents of incoming kindergarteners could contact the schools for appointments to assess their children.–UW-River Falls students to be listed in “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges” included locals Harvey Stower, Fred Remund, Keith Grant, June Petersen, Catherine Oline and Dennis Langkos.–Elizabeth Dodd was the Siren High School’s Betty Crocker Homemaker of Tomorrow.–Thieves stole amphetamines and watches from Olsen Drug in Frederic, $100 cash from a safe at Unity School, cash and cigarettes at Anderson Fairway in Luck, and four TVs and 80 cartons of cigarettes from the Alpha Store, over the course of five days.

40 years ago Audrey Gustafson and Robert Miller Jr. were married on Christmas Eve at the Trade Lake Baptist Church.–Tim Lexen, Grantsburg, was a new member of the staff of Burnett-Polk Youth Ministry.–Eugene Larson would be the manager of the new A&W restaurant in Grantsburg. His wife, Chris, would be working full time with him.–State Sen. Robert Knowles, R-New Richmond, was named head of a task force studying ways to improve job opportunities in Wisconsin. The group was expected to present its recommendations before the Senate adjourned in March.–A study of U.S. Census figures from 1970 revealed that women outnumbered men in Wisconsin by about 83,000, but that men outnumbered women in rural areas.–Clarence Zahn, who had moved from the Twin Cities back to Frederic with his wife, Harriet, after they retired in 1972, shared memories of “the good old days” growing up in Frederic. His family had come to Frederic in 1907, when he was 5 or 6. He said living in the young village had been exciting and he told about the mill that made barrel heads and how the people who didn’t keep cows could buy milk from Mrs. Erickson, the “milk lady,” for 5 cents a quart, dipped into their containers from the 5-gallon cans in her horse-drawn buggy.–About 100 concerned citizens attended an informational session in Grantsburg about the establishment of the National Scenic Riverway on the St. Croix and Namekagen. The biggest issue seemed to be that local people had long been accustomed to driving to the nearest access point for some fishing, canoeing, etc., and some of those roads were being blocked off.

20 years ago

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a traders camp, indoors, at the end of February. A muzzle-loading presentation will take place at noon on Saturday. On Sunday, there will be a logging presentation at noon. Admission is free to the public. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. See TheForts.org for more details. – from Burnett County Historical Society

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DANBURY - Enjoy the fun of July’s Great Fur Trade Rendezvous “trader’s row,” at the Indoor Rendezvous trade fair at Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park Saturday, Feb. 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This is a great opportunity to get deals on merchandise that the traders want to clear out of their inventory. You might find just the thing you were looking for, not to mention the fun and camaraderie of

Eric VanGuilder, a Webster grad and five-month employee of Cellular One, announced he would be opening a Cellular One branch office in the basement of the Webster Community Center on Feb. 5.–Births included Emily Ann Songetay, born Jan. 14, to Shawn Songetay and Michelle Buskirk, Danbury; and Tamera Nicole Quatmann, born Jan. 16, to Michael Quatmann and Lorraine Moen, Siren.–The Wisconsin DNR proposed changes to groundwater cleanup rules that would save $800 million in 17 years. The rule would allow the DNR staff to “unplug” active remediation systems when it was determined that the rest of the process could be achieved by “natural attenuation.”–Dr. David Vincent, a Frederic dentist for more than 37 years, retired on Jan. 31.–Dr. Blaise Vitale, from the Grantsburg Clinic, was co-author of the first study published in the New England Journal of Medicine on a new form of tick-borne illness, human granulocytic ehrlichiosis.– Rudy Ritger, who was injured the previous summer while retrieving a kite from a tree, returned to his job as a Burnett County probation and parole officer, starting with four hours a day while he continued physical therapy.–Unity graduate Ryan Fisher was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and would be playing for the Augusta Pirates farm team in Georgia.–Winter was especially bad for wildlife, with below-zero weather, freezing rain and heavy snowfalls. The Polk County Sportsmen’s Club was accepting donations for feeding wildlife, donations of corn or cash.

A cooperative-owned newspaper

PAGE 6 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

TOWN TALK • COUNTRY CHATTER Hello friends, Every week I keep track of the animals coming and going from the shelter on a simple tablet page with the categories of surrenders, strays and adoptions. I have come to the conclusion that I will, unfortunately, have to add another column, namely, abandoned. This is becoming far too common, especially of late. This week we had a pair of cats brought in who were left to fend for themselves when their so-called family moved out and left them. Sally and Molly arrived in horrific condition, thin, weak and dehydrated, with nasal and eye drainage, barely alive. The shelter staff is doing everything they can to just keep them alive and then, if possible, get them back to health. It is truly heartbreaking to see them struggle so. I will give you an update on them next week. The third and final cat arrival is a 3-year-old stray, unneutered male we named Bobb.

Bobb was found on Jenson Road, in the Town of Oakland.

He is a large boy at 12 pounds and Truffle has a thick orange

Shelter

YAPpenings

Humane Society of Burnett County coat. We had one surrender brought in, a very cute 10-week-old puppy named Aspen. Everyone had fun taking turns playing with the little rascal.

Incidentally, Aspen was one of the adoptions of the week. She didn’t even make it a week in the shelter before she went to her new home. Her new owner’s dog had recently passed away, so Aspen will hopefully be able to fill up the hole left in his heart.

Our second adoption was cat Blitzen. He is sure to be doted on. His new owner was very anxious and excited to take the handsome cat to his new home.

Our featured dog is a 1-1/2-year-old boxer mix named Truffle. Truffle came in as a stray on Jan. 15. The first time I met her I was smitten. She is an adorable little charmer. Truffle is a petite gal, but solid, at 40 pounds. She has a very beautiful brown coat with a few white markings. We are thinking that she may have some bulldog in her breeding, as she makes the cutest snorting sounds. I call her my little piggy. Truffle did a fine job on leash and she really

St. Croix Valley Senior Center Next Sunday we will be playing 500 cards at 1 p.m. as usual, following cards we will be having pork ribs and kraut supper to help celebrate Valentine’s Day, serving from 4-6 p.m. It will be a fun day for everyone.

Be sure to walk with care for hidden ice under this soft fluffy snow and, of course, drive with care

as we always do.

The senior center is continuing with all usual activities, so far no unexpected closures, but if school is closed so is the senior center. That’s our schedule and the only notice given regarding weather closures.

For information, Tuesday is the best day of the

Grantsburg Senior Center Happiness. Joy. Longevity. Wealth. May your Chinese New Year be filled with these and more.

Maybe this is your year, the Year of the Monkey you’ll have to check out the Chinese calendar. We at the center had wonderful foods to complement our celebration: pot stickers, egg rolls, cabbage salad, fortune cookies and so much more. The center lunch was chow mein. We tried our hand with chopsticks, too.

Maybe you just celebrated Groundhog Day. We heard he didn’t see his shadow. Quoting Phil’s in-

Donna and Gerry Hines visited Nina and Lawrence Hines on Monday morning.

The funeral service for Jerry Besse was held at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery near Spooner on Thursday. A large number of people attended the ceremony, after which lunch

was shared at Peggy’s in Shell Lake.

Jerry, Rose, Jack and Grace Sexton, Ethel Clausen, Lawrence, Nina, Gerry and Donna Hines, Hank and Karen Mangelsen, Lida Nordquist, Marlene Swearingen, Don Israel and Seth Quinton from this area attended the funeral for Don Grunnes on

Nona Severson

so you can be here for the party.

If anyone would care to donate any door prizes or items we can use for the silent auction, please drop them off at the center with my name on them. Thank you for any donations.

Barb Geske and Ralph and Nona Severson braved the snowstorm to come in and decorate for Valentine’s Day. The center is decorated with red and pink hearts and flowers. Several people noticed the change from our winter snowmen to hearts.

Our 500 winners were John Colvin, Nona Severson and Gerry Vogel. Sue Newberger won the bid. Our Spades winners were Steve Wenthe, Barb Geske, Doug Harlander, Marie Van Guilder and Rich Hustad.

Don’t forget Valentine’s Day is Sunday, Feb. 14.

Births Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center: A boy, Maxon James Jewell, born Jan. 21, 2016, to Amber Jewell of Amery. Maxon weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A boy, Collin Oliver Otto, born Jan. 21, 2016, to Kali Berg and Courtland Otto of Siren. Collin weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A girl, Adreamlyn Amberly-Jo Cleveland, born Jan. 23, 2016, to Samara Chapman and Ryan Cleveland of Webster. Adreamlyn weighed 4 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Jaianna Caylynn Mahler, born Jan. 23, 2016, to Jennifer Mahler of Frederic. Jaianna weighed 7 lbs., 5 oz.

••• A girl, Ava LaRaine Grill, born Jan. 24, 2016, to Jordan and Kristie Grill of Webster. Ava weighed 8 lbs., 3 oz.

Pat Willits week to call.

Tuesday, Feb. 2, card winners were Arnie Borchert and Norma Lundgren, and Arnie had the nine bid. The Hand and Foot winner was Ione.

The Thursday, Feb. 4, winners were Izzy Magnuson and Jo Gehrman, and David Thelen had the nine bid.

The Sunday, Feb. 7, winners were Bob Norlander and Roger Greely, and Ray Nelson and Bob Norlander had the nine bid.

The senior center is located downtown St. Croix Falls at 140 N. Washington. Phone, 715-483-1901.

some.

Remember we offer Wi-Fi, coffee and goodies, and the book nook, or maybe you can find something on the thrifty nifty table.

For meal reservations, call 715-463-2940. For hall rent or other questions contact Patzy Wenthe at 715-222-6400, or Wally Mitchell at 715-463-2940.

For questions on center ask for Patzy or Wally. You can even email us at: gburg118@gmail.com

Coming Events: Business meeting the third Thursday of the month at 11 a.m.

Bingo the second Wednesday of the month, 1 p.m. Bring a $1 to $2 wrapped gift.

Rummage Sale on April 2.

Medica workshop on March 22 at 2 p.m.

Fun with friends, every day. Wi-Fi available.

Friday. The service was held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in northeast Minneapolis.

Larry, Celie and Baxter Mangelsen, and April and Mandy Close were Saturday visitors of Karen and Hank Mangelsen. Birthdays of Celie and Larry were celebrated.

Lida Nordquist spent some time visiting Donna

and Gerry Hines on Saturday.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen called on Nina and Lawrence Hines on Saturday evening.

Clam River Tuesday Club met Friday at the home of Judy Leonard. After the business meeting, the ladies enjoyed playing the dice game.

Karen Mangelsen

Siren Senior Center We have decided not to have a Good Friday breakfast this year. We will serve hot dogs and brats at some of the farmers market days.

We had a potluck meal on Wednesday, Feb. 10.

Some dates to remember: Feb. 13 and 14 – Sport show and snowmobile races.

Feb. 16 – Election.

Feb. 18 – Annual meeting.

Feb. 28 – Longaberger Basket Bingo cancer fundraiser at Tesora. Doors open at noon. Bingo starts at 1 p.m.

We have set a date for our seventh-annual card party. We will be having the party on Saturday, April 30, at 1 p.m. We will be having a silent auction, prizes, cards, lunch and a fun time. Mark the date on your calendars. Snowbirds, plan to come home

walks great on leash, keeps his kennel clean and is a very quiet fellow. He is also a very handsome dog with his beautiful brindle coat and the way he prances with his tail curled over his back when he walks. So there you have it. Stop on in and meet this fine fellow, you won’t be disappointed and, hopefully, he will be the dog for you.

So have you made it out to the Gandy Dancer Saloon for the meat raffle yet? To recap, the raffle is held on Fridays at 5:30 p.m. All proceeds from the raffles in January and February are being earmarked for the support of the shelter animals.

Come out and join the fun. Also sure to be a fun time is the chili/soup cook-off fundraiser, to be held on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 3-6 p.m. at Clover Meadow Winery. Bring your favorite chili or soup in a slow cooker to serve from. We are suggesting around five quarts so everyone will have a chance to sample it. There is no fee to enter your soup or chili, but the cost to enjoy them is $8 per person with proceeds going to support the shelter animals.

We hope to see you there also.

The Humane Society of Burnett County, hsburnettcty.org, is saving lives, one at a time. Phone 715-866-4096, license no. 26335-DS. You can check us out and like us on Facebook too. Have a great week.

Patzy Wenthe

terpreter, “There is no shadow to be cast. An early spring is my forecast!” I did take my coat off for a couple of minutes on one of the warm days, but Monday morning reality set back in.

Now we are gearing up for Valentine’s Day, so don’t forget your sweethearts. This should be a week of sweets. There goes the New Year’s resolutions, but so worth it.

Stop in, Cribbage is going to get started, also we have Bingo on Wednesday at 1 p.m. We need your input on different times that may work out better for

Dewey-LaFollette

enjoys her walks.

When I knelt down to pet her, I was rewarded with gentle kisses on my cheek.

Being that she was a bit on the shy side when she came to the shelter, one of our volunteers took her into her home Paco as a foster. Truffle quickly came out of her shell while enjoying the companionship of her many sibling dogs and cats in her new home. Her foster mom sent me a video of Truffle on a walk with five other dogs on a woods trail, and I could see that she was having the time of her life. Since Truffle is in a foster home, if you would like to meet her, please call the shelter and set up a convenient time.

It’s been awhile since I featured dog Paco, and I was asked to mention him again. If you recall, Paco is our tall, 85-pound, 1-1/2-year-old mastiff mix. He came in as a surrender on Dec. 22 when his owner could no longer care for him. Paco is like an overgrown kid, playful, goofy and fun. We all like Paco.

What’s not to like? He greets you with a smile,

••• A girl, Elsie Rae Byl, born Jan. 24, 2016, to Ashley and Ryan Byl of Luck. Elsie weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A boy, Isaac Daniel van der Paardt, born Jan. 27, 2016, to Alyssa Backlin and Joibahn van der Paardt of St. Croix Falls. Isaac weighed 8 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A girl, Paisley Jean den Hoed, born Jan. 28, 2016, to Ashley and Jayce den Hoed of Frederic.

Paisley weighed 8 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A girl, Annalise Marie Carlson, born Jan. 29, 2016, to Ashley Carlson-Belland and Travis Ellio of Grantsburg. Annalise weighed 6 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A girl, Brooklyn Kayann Miller, born Jan. 30, 2016, to Jerry and Becky Miller of Osceola. Brooklyn weighed 7 lbs., 4 oz.

•••

Siren news

Bev Beckmark 715-349-2964

Wow! Last Wednesday’s weather sure was a shocker, especially when the TV weathermen on several stations had predicted we were in for a couple of inches from the storm. Well, let me tell you, someone should clue in Mother Nature and Old Man Winter because, here in bear country, the total was close to 6 inches. Hubby had an eye appointment in Luck, and when we headed down the weather was fine. Let me tell you, though, on the way back it was hairy. One car passed us just south of Frederic and we thought he was going to hit the ditch. He swerved all over the road before finally getting it back under control. It’s a good thing there wasn’t another car coming at us from the other direction.

We have one tree rat here in bear country that I’m betting is no longer gray. On Saturday morning, he came in too early, about 6:30, looking for black walnuts, I’m sure.

Well, all of a sudden, up went his head. Then, like a shot, he headed for an oak tree. In swooped one of our residing great horned owls who, I’m sure, was looking for his breakfast. Well, the tree rat made it just in the nick of time, leaving Mr. Owl empty-handed. I bet he will be more careful from now on. I will be looking for a tree rat with snow-

white hair. I bet it isn’t gray anymore.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Wilbur Thoreson, who passed away Jan. 25.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Constance Bower, who passed away Feb. 1.

For those of you who always attend the Hope for a Cure Longaberger Basket Bingo, mark your calendars for Sunday, Feb. 28. The doors open at noon and it goes until 5 p.m. at the Northwoods Crossing Event Center.

The congregation of the Siren United Methodist Church enjoyed a great chicken soup made by Pastor Eddie Crise. It was delicious. I bet he is a great cook at home too.

Congratulations to Siren student Patty Close for being chosen Siren Schools student of excellence for the week. Super!

Congratulations to elementary student Paul Rightman, middle schooler Austin Hursh and high schooler Greta Johnson for being chosen Siren Schools students of the week. What a great way to get to the top.

For those of you who ice fish, be extra careful if you drive out on some of our lakes, as many are not safe this year with this crazy weather.

Frederic Senior Center Our weather remains nice, and we are getting more snow.

The winners for Spades were Arnie Borchert, Doug Harlander, Nona Severson and Darwin Niles.

The eight bid went to Carmen Marek.

The winners for 500 were Arnie Borchert, Phyllis Peterson, Laryn Larson and Paul Strauser. The nine bid went to Keith Bennett and Darwin Niles.

Remember that we play Spades on Monday at 1

Dave Peterson

p.m. and 500 on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

We still have openings for AARP tax help on Thursday, March 17. Call the center at 715-3278623 to make an appointment on Monday, Tuesday or Friday mornings from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Stay warm and think spring.

We hope to see you at the center.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK • COUNTRY CHATTER Bridger is a handsome 1-year-old shepherd mix.

His thick, but short, brindle coat is very soft. As you can see from his photo, his ears are trying to stand upright, a signature of the German shepherd breed. Bridger is a large puppy with some manners under his collar. He weighs 70 pounds now, but will most definitely go to 90 pounds as he develops. But Bridger isn’t just a good-looking fellow, he is very smart and eager to engage in learning. He takes to his lessons and learns quickly. When he isn’t learning, Bridger likes to play. He will chase a thrown tennis ball and entertain himself with it when your arm is tired. This large puppy likes to play with other dogs but doesn’t yet understand just how powerful he is. He can play rough and tumble with other dogs his size. Bridger is the perfect dog for someone who knows how to handle a large dog and wants an in-

telligent, interactive companion.

Bridger came to our shelter as a stray. He was found running on the side of a road in Polk County.

This part of his story is common at the Arnell shelter. In 2015, 71 percent of the animals that came to shelter were stray or abandoned. The Arnell animal shelter is a safe haven for pets without a caregiver.

They arrive without a history other than when and where they were found. They may have been taking refuge in a shed or appeared one day curled up on the back porch. Many are found living in a ditch or on the side of the road, like Bridger.

Stray pets are taken in and cared for. With our centralized location, owners are able to recover their lost pets. Inquiries at veterinarian clinics, police departments, town officials and the sheriff’s department will send them to Arnell to report and find

Happy Tails

Await

Arnell Humane Society of Polk County their pet. The reclaim rate of stray dogs at the Arnell shelter last year was 64 percent. Sadly, the reclaim rate for stray cats remains at the national average of 1 percent. Lucky for the unclaimed strays that come to our shelter, they are cared for and stay on until they find loving homes.

Please remember that the stray pet you have found may have a distraught owner looking for them. Report a stray to the Arnell shelter. We are

here to help reconnect owners and pets.

Support our homeless animals at a meat raffle in downtown Star Prairie this Saturday, Feb. 13, at the Friendly Bar. Enjoy the prime rib special Bridger and join the fun. It all begins at 6 p.m. We hope to see you there. Arnell Memorial Humane Society, Amery, 715-268-7387, online at arnellhumane.org and Facebook.

St. Croix Middle School Happenings

Students in Mr. Malm’s fifth-grade math class apply their decimal multiplication skills in real-world problem-solving situations. In this activity, the students calculated their predictions for the size of a butterfly based on the height and length of a caterpillar. – Photo submitted

Academic news STEVENS POINT – The University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point conferred degrees on more than 700 graduates during the university’s winter commencement ceremonies on Dec. 19, 2015. Graduates, their guests and faculty members were addressed

by Nick Desien, former chief executive officer of Ministry Health Care. Chancellor Bernie Patterson welcomed the participants and Provost and Vice Chancellor Greg Summers recognized honor students and award winners. The following students from the area were awarded degrees: Clear Lake Andrew Smith, Bachelor of Science, business administration - management; Grantsburg Seth Odegard, Bachelor of Science, biology; and Siren Jacob Stiemann, Bachelor of Science, business administration - finance/insurance/real EWI, business administration - management. – from Link News ••• GREEN BAY - The University of Wisconsin Green Bay has made public the names of students receiving academic honors for the fall 2015 semester.

Students who earn a 4.0 grade-point average receive highest honors. Those earning 3.99 to 3.75 receive high honors and students earning 3.74 to 3.50 receive honors.

Students from the area who received honors include: Clear Lake Madison Brusletten, highest honors; Osceola Hanna Mierow, highest honors; and Abbie Otlo, semester honors; and

Unity AnneMarie Reis, honors. – from Link News ••• STEVENS POINT - The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point honored more than 2,580 undergraduate students for attaining high grade-point averages during the fall semester of the 2015-2016 academic year.

Full-time undergraduates who earned grade points of 3.90 to 4.0, 4.0 equals straight A, are given the highest honors designation. High honor citations go to those with grade-point averages from 3.75 to 3.89, and honor recognition is accorded to those with grade-point averages from 3.50 to 3.74.

Students from the area who received honors include:

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Frederic Cody Hallanger, honors; Sarah Morley, high honors; and Rachel Thomas, highest honors; Luck Tyler Petersen, honors; and Webster Bradley Krause, honors. – from Link News ••• CONCORDIA - Concordia University Wisconsin officials have released the fall honors list for the 2015-2016 academic year. To be eligible for the honor, students must achieve a minimum 3.50 grade-point average.

Alicia Sund, of Luck, is among the area students named to the list. She is a junior and a traditional undergraduate in nursing. – submitted ••• ST. PAUL, Minn. - John F. D’Jock, of Siren, has been named to the University of St. Thomas 2015 fall semester dean’s list. Students must post gradepoint averages of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale to be named to the dean’s list. – submitted

Webster Senior Center Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope everyone gets chocolate.

There was no Dime Bingo on Wednesday due to the snow. If Webster Schools are closed, the center is closed and no Dime Bingo or other activities.

There were several pool players and I was told Ken was the big winner.

Six came to play Dominoes and Judy B. was the winner. These games are played every Thursday at 1 p.m. Come in and join the fun.

Wii bowling was of course exciting and competitive. Pat N. had high individual game and series with 259 and 493. The Happy Strikers had high team

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper.

Bernie Bolter

game and series with 822 and 1567. Harry picked up the 5-10 split and Gladys the 4-5-7-10.

Stop in and check out the menus and the activities that are available. Always room for more for lunches and for games. If anyone has some ideas about things they would like to see happen, please stop in and let us know.

We are planning on playing Horse Race one Saturday a month, probably starting next month. More details later. We are also planning a potluck later in the month. Will have a for-sure date next week.

Remember age only matters if you’re cheese.

See you at the center.

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Hours Mon. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

PAGE 8 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

LIBRARY CORNER Grantsburg Library news Free tax assistance Schedule an appointment to meet with volunteers from the AARP Tax Preparation program. Upcoming appointment openings are offered the mornings of Thursday, Feb. 11, and Friday, Feb. 12, and March 3, 4, 10 and 11. Call the library to schedule an appointment and to find out if you qualify for the program, 715-463-2244

Tax forms Paper copies of IRS forms 1040, Instruction 1040, Publication 17, Publication 4604 (EN-SP) and Wisconsin tax forms 1A, 1NPR, Schedule WD, Rent Certificates and instruction booklets are now available at the Grantsburg Library.

Preschool story hour Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to join Beth Rank of 4-H Youth and Family Development for a fun program on Wednesday, Feb. 17, at 10:30 a.m. Beth will provide interactive activities with read-aloud stories.

different gift to the community!

Event dates for Library Loves You Month: • Monday, Feb. 15 – Read Off Your Fines Day. • Tuesday, Feb. 16 – Free 30 minutes of technology assistance, call the library for an appointment.

• Wednesday, Feb. 17 – Free book for kids at preschool story time.

• Thursday, Feb. 18 – Free school early release program.

• Friday, Feb. 19 – Free card replacement day.

• Saturday, Feb. 20 – Free donut morning.

• Monday, Feb. 22 through Friday, Feb. 26 – Where’s Waldo week.

Author book signing On Saturday, Feb. 20, from 10-11:30 a.m., Sue Segelstrom will be signing her latest books titled “Alpha: A Rural Swedish Settlement in Northwest Wisconsin” and “The Proprietor: The Life and Times of Simon Thoreson.” Coffee and donuts will be provided for this special event.

Library Loves You Month

Volunteers need for after-school reading program

We at the library are immensely thankful to our community for their ongoing support. We want to give a little something back to our neighbors during Cupid’s month. In honor of the Grantsburg community we will be celebrating “The Library Loves You Month” in February. Each day we’ll be offering a

Volunteers are needed Tuesdays and Thursdays for the after-school reading program. Many great volunteers are already signed up to read one-onone with area youth for the after-school reading program, but we still need more volunteers. This is a growing program! Call the library if you are inter-

We appreciate the AARP Tax Preparation volunteers! This year the volunteers expect to help over 150 people file tax returns. To learn more about or volunteer for this outstanding program go to aarp.org/taxaide. Pictured (L to R) are: Lisa Swenson, Don Mastro, Erin Fox, Stan Peer and Dave Edaburn. Missing from the photo is Mark Smith. – Photo submitted ested, 715-463-2244.

Library hours and information Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, noon – 6 p.m.; Wednesays, 10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 2

p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. – noon. Phone number: 715-463-2244. Website: grantsburg.wislib.org. To find out about the latest library events, follow us on Facebook.

Larsen Family Public Library news Severe weather

Tax forms

The library’s policy on closing the library in severe weather follows the Webster School District’s closings - if the schools are closed due to severe weather, the library will be closed as well.

The Wisconsin tax forms are here: Tax Form 1, 1A and WI-Z and Homestead Tax and the instruction booklets. We also have rent certificates, Schedule WD and instructions, form 1NPR and instructions.

If you need forms that we don’t have, you can phone them at 608-266-2486 or go to the Wisconsin tax website revenue.wi.gov/individuals/. The IRS will not be sending tax instructions to the library this year, just the forms, so this is just a reminder to order your tax instructions early from the IRS. We will have a small choice of forms here which should arrive about Jan. 25. Here is the Internet link to order from the Federal IRS, irs.gov/formspubs. You can also telephone your request to 800-829-3676.

Friends of the Library Our wild rice cookbooks are on sale at the library and the coffee shop for $12.

Table tennis (pingpong) Please join us Monday, Feb. 22, 11 a.m., and Wenesday, Feb. 24, 1 p.m. In March, we will meet on Wednesdays, March 9, 23 and 30, 1 p.m. When AARP tax prepartion is over, the hours will become more regular. This is not a tourament – just some fun playing pingpong no matter what your skill level.

Preschool story time Please join us every Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m. for stories, snacks, activities and socialization (for the children and the adults). Everyone is welcome - we love to see new faces. And don’t forget our 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program - babies love to hear your voice.

Debt reduction campaign We have reached the $50,000 mark. Thanks to all the people who have so generously donated to our library’s debt reduction fund.

AARP tax help AARP offers free tax help to low- and moderate-income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older. AARP will be here at the library to help you with your taxes starting in February. We have the sign-up sheets now. Help will be available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays the first and third weeks of February and March and the first two weeks of April. Please call the library at 715-8667697 to make an appointment.

Adult book club The title for our February Book Club discussion is “Shakespeare Saved My Life: Ten Years in Solitary with the Bard” by Laura Bates. We meet at 10 a.m. the fourth Tuesday of every month except December in the Nexen Room. Everyone is welcome, even if you haven’t had time to read the book. Books are available at the circulation desk - just call the library to reserve your copy. “Shakespeare professor and prison volunteer Laura Bates thought she had seen it all. That is, until she decided to teach Shakespeare in a place the bard had never been before — supermax solitary confinement. In this unwelcoming place, surrounded by inmates known as the worst of the worst, is Larry Newton. A convicted murderer with several escape attempts under his belt and a brilliantly agile mind on his shoulders, Larry was trying to break out of prison at the same time Laura was fighting to get her program started behind bars. Thus begins the most unlikely of friendships, one bonded by Shakespeare and lasting years—a friendship that, in the end, would save more than one life.” (review taken from Amazon.com)

Newly acquired materials Juvenile • “One Family” by George Shannon • “I’m Like You, You’re Like Me” by Cindy Gainor • “Yoko” by Rosemary Wells • “Wait” by Antoinette Portis • “A Friend for Bo” by Elisabeth Zuniga • “I Love You Baby” by Giles Andreae • “How to Mend a Heart” by Sara Gillingham • “Ladybug Girl: I Love You” by David Soman • “Here Comes Valentine Cat” by Deborah Underwood • “Love from the Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle • “Last Stop at Market Street” by Matt De La Pena • “Pax” by Sara Pennypacker

Large print

Adult nonfiction

• “A Respectable Actress” by Dorothy Love • “The Bronte Plot” by Katherine Reay

DVD • “Baby Einstein Collection” • “Baby Genius: Counting Songs” • “Be My Valentine” • “Animal Cafe” • “Downton Abbey Season 6” • “PBS Kids: Outdoor Fun” • “Toy Story That Time Forgot” • “Pan” • “Bridge of Spies”

• “Norwegian Wood: Chopping, Stacking and Drying Wood the Scandinavian Way” by Lars Mytting • “Boys in the Trees: a Memoir” by Carly Simon • “Skunk Hill: A Native Ceremonial Community in Wisconsin” by Robert A. Birmingham

Hours and information Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. For more information, contact the library at 715-866-7697, website: webster.wislib.org. Online catalog: merlin. nwls.lib.wi.us/search.

Audio CD • “NYPD Red 4” by James Patterson

Luck FCCLA students shine

Summer reading program books • “Discovering STEM at the Baseball Game” by Ryan Nagelhout • “Discovering STEM at the Airport” by Cynthia Roby • “Discovering STEM at the Zoo” by Theresa Shea • “Discovering STEM at the Museum” by Amy Hayes • “A Firefighter’s Tools” by Devon McKinney • “A Construction Worker’s Tools” by Jesse McFadden • All by Isabel Thomas - “Animalympics: Animal Athletics,” “Animal Gymnastics,” “Animal Strength and Combat Sports,” “Animal Swimming and Diving” • All by Stephanie Turnbull - Survival Challenge series: “Emergency!,” “Cold!,” “Hungry!,” “Lost!,” “Stranded!” and “Thirsty!”

• “Swimming and Diving” by Allan Morey • “Track and Field” by Matt Doeden • “Volleyball” by Matt Doeden • “Basketball” by Allan Morey • “Combat Sports” by Matt Doeden • “Gymnastics” by Allan Morey

Adult • “After She’s Gone” by Lisa Jackson • “The Spring at Moss Hill” by Carla Neggers • “The High Mountains of Portugal” by Yann Martel • “Louisiana Saves the Library” by Emily Beck Cogburn • “Brotherhood in Death” by J.D. Robb • “Breakdown” by Jonathan Kellerman • “Find Her” by Lisa Gardner

Seven members of the Luck FCCLA competed in the STAR events competition in Siren on Thursday, Feb. 4. The Luck STAR events participants shown in the front row are (L to R): Jenny Olson, Rose King and Tasia Adams. Back: Laura Bartylla, Rose Crowe, Julia Campion and Alaura Lemieux. – Photo submitted SIREN - On Thursday, Feb. 4, seven members of Luck’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America competed at the regional Students Taking Action with Recognition event competition at Siren. STAR events are competitive events in which members are recognized for proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills and career preparation. STAR events offer individual skill development and application of learning through the following activities: teams working cooperatively to accomplish specific goals, individual members working alone to accomplish specific goals and/or individuals or teams whose performance is measured by an established set of criteria.

Senior Julia Campion created “super satchels” for the recycle and design contest and earned a gold award. Sophomores Jenny Olson and Isabella Rose Crowe also took gold for their cranberry

carrot cake with cream cheese icing entries in the pastries and baked goods competition.

Sophomore Laura Bartylla and senior Alaura Lemieux each competed in the culinary arts contest. They each earned silver awards for the meals of steak Diane with a spinach salad that they each prepared for the judges.

Eighth-graders Tasia Adams and Rose King each competed as individuals in culinary creations. They each made and decorated several birthday-themed cupcakes.

Adams earned a bronze award and King took home a silver.

Bartylla, Crowe, Campion, Lemieux and Olson will advance and compete at the state competition. They will accompany Luck’s FCCLA adviser Renee Gavinski to the FCCLA state leadership conference and STAR events competition at Wisconsin Dells in April. – submitted

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

First-ever Kids Pro Ice Race held on Butternut Lake

There was stiff competition coming around the curve at the first-ever Kids Pro Ice Racing event on Big Butternut Lake Saturday morning, Feb. 6.

Two racers in the Amateur Kitty Cat class vie for the lead.

Photos by Mary Stirrat unless otherwise noted

LEFT: A group of youngsters in the Amateur Kitty Cat class take off as the starting flag is dropped.

Kent Christensen, president of Kids Pro Ice, sets out the rules and explains the schedule of the day prior to the start of races on Butternut Lake Saturday. The nonprofit group, based in the Twin Cities, has 30 active families teaching safe driving and racing practices to their children. Racers range in age from 4 to 14 years.

RIGHT: A total of 28 young people between the ages of 4 and 14 took part in the first Kids Pro Ice races on Butternut Lake Feb. 6. Trophies were given out at the awards dinner at JJ’s Club 35 that evening. Kids Pro Ice President Kent Christensen said that this first race in Luck was a great success.

“From the town welcoming us, the help of local sponsors and support of the local ambulance service, things went very well,” he said. “And after a long day on the ice it was nice to be at JJ’s Club 35 for the awards ceremony and good food. We look forward to next year and hope to be part of the Luck Winter Carnival.”— Photo submitted

This young racer watches as his engine gets a last tweak before his race.

PAGE 10 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Balsam Lake Winterfest 2016:

Fire department’s Fire and Ice Plunge

Balsam Lake Village President Geno D’Agostino, left, and police Chief Tom Thompson were among the onlookers at the Balsam Lake Fire Department’s Fire and Ice Plunge Saturday.

Photos by Mary Stirrat

The Fire and Ice Plunge is a fundraiser for the Balsam Lake Fire Department but other causes were promoted as well. These two women, Colleen and Ashley, were jumping in support of mental health awareness.

Nathan took several plunges for the Balsam Lake Fire Department Saturday. This leap was his first of the day but the 20th of his career.

LEFT: Members of the fire department worked the crowds gathered to watch the Fire and Ice Plunge, selling chances on a meat raffle. Hams, chops, burger and bacon were among the items raffled.

Jeremy and Nathan Brown wowed the crowd by doing backflips into the open water on Balsam Lake Saturday during the Winterfest Fire and Ice Plunge sponsored by the fire department.

Kaina Zygowicz and her friend, Garrit, took the plunge Saturday to raise money for the Balsam Lake Fire Department. Kaina started the Fire and Ice Plunge fundraiser five years ago when she represented the village as Miss Balsam Lake.

Twenty-four members of the Clayton Fire Department, including these three, jumped into the frigid waters of Balsam Lake Saturday, taking part in the fifth-annual Fire and Ice Plunge to raise money for the fire department.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Balsam Lake Winterfest 2016:

Racing on ice

Getting off to a fast start is key to winning the race. - Photos by Mary Stirrat

These two characters wait for their turn to race on Balsam Lake Saturday. They are Evan Hemsted, left, and Andrew Holmsten from Carefree Farms, a 27-acre llama farm in Balsam Lake.

Photos by Mary Stirrat

These two were the first to race at the Winterfest ice races Saturday. Four-by-four trucks were originally going to race but insufficient ice meant that ATVs and UTVs were raced instead.

The sunshine and moderate temperatures Saturday, along with a celebratory spirit, brought a large crowd to Balsam Lake to enjoy Winterfest activities.

This youngster was sticking close to the warming barrels, more for fun than for needing to keep warm.

PAGE 12 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

Balsam Lake Winterfest 2016:

Snowshoe race

LEFT: Lacey Scottum of St. Croix Falls, center, took first place in the women’s division with a time of 34:43 in the snowshoe race held during Balsam Lake’s Winterfest Feb. 5-7. In second was Erica Dueholm, left, of Savage, Minn., at 37:24.

Julie Thamert, Frederic, took third with 38:29.

RIGHT: Taking first place in the men’s division was Joseph Anderson, center, of Bloomer, with a time of 23:49. At left is second-place winner Alex Anderson of New Richmond, at 25:11, and in third is Nate Scottum of St. Croix Falls, at 29:51.

Photos submitted

LEFT: At the bridge over Balsam Branch that marks the halfway point in the Balsam Lake snowshoe race are Kimberlee Harvey, left, of Luck and Suz Thomson of Balsam Lake.

RIGHT: Enjoying the fresh air and the exercise of the 2016 Balsam Lake Snowshoe Race are friends Julia Amrhien and Debra Raboin.

RIGHT: The Balsam Lake Snowshoe Race is a fun 5K trail race for all who love the outdoors and enjoy winter hikes. Runners and walkers are welcome to take part in the annual event. The race follows a designated route of trails through wooded areas surrounding Balsam Lake. It begins in Pine Park and ends on the north end of the Mill Pond. All proceeds go toward the improvement of Pine Park.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County celebrates its 20th anniversary MILLTOWN - Twenty years ago, Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County received a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to become part of the foundation’s national program of interfaith volunteer caregiving programs. ICPC is one of over 500 local programs across the country providing care for people with long-term health needs through kindness and dedication of volunteers from local faith congregations and other community members. Volunteer caregiving programs have been serving their neighbors in need, nationwide, since 1983.

“We wish to extend our congratulations to you, your board, your staff and especially your volunteers on the occasion of this milestone. Your selfless efforts have not only helped a large number of individuals in need, but have contributed to the richness of your community,” said Rhonda Anderson, executive director, National Volunteer Caregiving Network.

ICPC’s program director Karen Krupa shared her excitement about how the program has grown to help more people stay at home. “My own mom is a feisty 88-year-old who insists on living in her own home. So I’m grateful that Interfaith Caregivers is here to help Polk County’s elderly and disabled adults do the very same thing. Our program has grown so our 175 volunteers help between 500 and 600 people every year. More volunteers are always needed to provide rides, visits, chores and more in our county. I want to thank all of our generous volunteers and donors for making this program available to our neighbors in need at no cost. With the continued support of our community, Interfaith Caregivers will continue to be here.”

Krupa continues with a chuckle, “After all, in a few more years, I’ll be the feisty 88-year-old who needs some

extra help to stay at home!”

The public is cordially invited to attend the 20th-anniversary celebration open house on Monday, Feb. 15, from 2-4 p.m., with the annual meeting following at 4 p.m.

Their new address is 133 Eider St. in Milltown where they share office space with the EMS. They ask that people not block the doors to the ambulance garage.

National Volunteer Caregiver volunteers come from churches, synagogues, mosques and other houses of worship, as well as the community at large. These volunteers help those in need with many everyday activities, such as picking up groceries or providing a ride to the doctor. With this volunteer assistance, members of the community who have long-term health needs can maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County is a member of the National Volunteer Caregiving Network. The network is devoted to promoting independent living through volunteer caregiving and support and development of local programs. Carrying on with the original work of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, it is their belief that every community deserves an interfaith volunteer caregiving program. They are responsive to individuals, groups and communities who desire to promote or develop programs, with hopes that someday this vision will be a reality.

Contact Karen Krupa at 715-825-9500 if you need additional information or materials. More information may be obtained by visiting the National Volunteer Caregiving website, nvcnetwork.org, and Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County’s website, interfaithpolk.org, or by emailing karen@interfaithpolk.org. – from ICPC

Silent Messengers return Two performances scheduled to support the homeless NEW RICHMOND - The Silent Messengers, from First Reformed Church, Baldwin, are returning to New Richmond. This time, they will hold two shows on the same day, Sunday, Feb. 21. The Silent Messengers crew is doing this as a donation to help Grace Place and Serenity Home shelters located in Polk and St. Croix counties.

Last year the event was so popular, with so many people raving about how awesome it was, the group decided to do two shows.

The event will be a dinThe Silent Messengers, of Baldwin, will hold two performances at Ready Randy’s/RD Caterner-theater-style event with ing in New Richmond on Sunday, Feb. 21, as a fundraiser for Grace Place and Serenity Home a spaghetti dinner followed shelters in New Richmond and Balsam Lake. The photo is from a past performance of the Silent by a theatrical presentation Messengers. Jenifer Lokker is the director of the Silent Messengers at the First Reformed Church by the Silent Messengers. in Baldwin. – Photo submitted The presentation is a re-enactment of the life of Christ at noon, and the second will begin with dinner at 4 p.m. celebrating his resurrection and the promise that it with the performance starting at 5 p.m. Proceeds from brings. The unique thing about this performance is that the ticket sales will go to support the homeless families the entire production is performed in complete silence by in the community. If you would like to order tickets over the talented young men and women who bring to life the the phone, please call 715-246-1222. Tickets will also be story of Jesus’ life. available at the door.

People wanting to see the show and support Grace With the Lenten season beginning soon, this is the Place and Serenity Home shelters should purchase tick- perfect opportunity for families to come together and ets soon at Grace Place Shelter in New Richmond, Seren- celebrate the life and resurrection of Jesus, all while supity Home Shelter in Balsam Lake or at Ready Randy’s/ porting the homeless in our local communities. For more RD Catering in New Richmond. Tickets will be sold information, please call 715-497-4438 or follow Grace for $15 for adults and $7 for children 9 and under. This Place Salvation Army or Polk County Salvation Army on dinner theater event will be held at Ready Randy’s/RD Facebook for more information. – from the Salvation Army Catering in New Richmond. The first show will start with dinner at 11 a.m. with the performance beginning

Burn barrels, an unhealthy way of dealing with trash

D

id you know that an estimated 500,000 burn barrels are still being used today in the state of Wisconsin? Burning a barrel of trash in your backyard can release the same amount of dioxin and furan into the atmosphere as a well-controlled municipal waste incinerator serving thousands of residents, a recent study by the Environmental Protection Agency concludes. Dioxins and furans belong to a class of compounds known to have harmful effects on laboratory animals; it’s also believed they may pose serious dangers to humans. Burn barrels may also emit vapors, carcinogenic (cancer-causing) tars, and heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and chromium, as well as unhealthy levels of carbon dioxide. According to the EPA, open burning of household waste in barrels is potentially one of the largest sources of airborne

Earth Notes Jen Barton dioxin and furan emissions in the United States.

The only acceptable materials to burn in a burn barrel are dry leaves, plant clippings, paper, cardboard and clean, untreated wood, that’s it; not garbage or plastic, not metals or petroleum products, not rubber, treated wood or asphalt. Burn barrels operate at low temperatures, 400-500 degrees F, resulting in incomplete combustion of the wastes being burned. The

OBITUARIES Helen Elaine Norgard Helen Elaine Norgard of Milltown, Wis., died Feb. 5, 2016, at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center at age 88. She was born Sept. 10, 1927, in St. John, N.D., to Alma and Malner Christianson.

Helen and Russell made their family home in Milltown – living in the big white house (including barn) across the street from the old Milltown School. This farm was also the temporary residence of many mink, a lot of cows, and always one dog and multiplying cats. Following Russell’s stroke in 1998, they moved across the field – essentially switching homes with Reg and Cindy Norgard to accommodate his new physical needs. Just as Helen was the “pivotal” person in the lives of her young family attending to all comfort, health and social needs, she was relentless in her commitment to Russell’s desired independence, providing home care until his death in 2004.

Since 2009, Helen has been a resident of the United Pioneer Home in Luck. With declining cognitive abilities over recent years, the Pioneer Home has been a stable and familiar environment so essential to her well-being. In response, our family is deeply grateful to the nursing and support staff for such exceptional care and the loving-kindness consistently shown to our mother.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 58 years, Russell; and siblings, Arnold Christianson and Gladys Hancock.

She is survived by her children, Marilyn Peper and husband William, Reg Norgard and wife Cindy, and Bonnie Liesenfeld; seven grandchildren including Christopher Peper and wife Christine, Angela Hooverson and husband Russ, Jon Liesenfeld and wife Sarah, Tim Peper and wife Allison, Tennille Norgard, Andrew Peper and wife Katie, Sam Norgard and wife Kelly; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Helen’s funeral service was held Tuesday, Feb. 9, at the Milltown Lutheran Church with the Rev. Maggie Isaacson officiating and music by Cheryl and Mike Peper. Interment will follow at Milltown Cemetery.

An online guest book is available at rowefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444.

Dorothy Marie Roskos Dorothy Marie Roskos, 81, of Webster, Wis., passed away Feb. 7, 2016. Arrangements are pending at this time.

Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Homes. For full obituary and online condolences, swedberg-taylor.com.

Lenten services Balsam Lake – Holy Trinity United Methodist Church will have a free light supper of soup and sandwiches while discussing Lenten-related Bible verses at 6 p.m. on Thursdays, Feb. 18 through March 17. The church is located at 1606 165th Ave., between Balsam Lake and Centuria on CTH I. Faith Lutheran Church will hold an Ash Wednesday worship service on Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. The church is located at 305 First Ave. E. Dresser – Peace Lutheran Church will hold an Ash Wednesday service on Feb. 10 at 6:45 p.m. On Wednesdays, Feb. 17 through March 16, they will have a soup lunch at 11:30 a.m. and noon service or a soup supper at 5:45 p.m., with a service at 6:45 p.m.

Luck – Bone Lake Lutheran Church will begin holding Lenten services on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10, with a soup supper at 6 p.m. and Holden evening prayer service at 6:45 p.m. This schedule will continue on Wednesdays through March 16.

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church will hold their Ash Wednesday service on Wednesday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m.

St. Croix Falls – First Presbyterian Church will have a light supper at 6 p.m., with Lenten services following the supper, on Tuesdays, Feb. 16 through March 15. The church is located at 719 Nevada St. - submitted EPA shows that each pound of garbage burned emits twice as many furans, 20 times more dioxins and 40 times more particulates than if that same pound of garbage were burned in an incinerator with air pollution controls. Ash (particulates) can damage lungs, cause bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer, and can seriously affect people with asthma or certain allergies.

Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of fires in Wisconsin. The two most common problems with burn barrels causing wildfires is the lack of a lid and a barrel that is in such bad condition that the burning materials fall out of the sides. Before burning, why not consider more environmentally friendly options such as composting, recycling or brush piles for wildlife habitat.

Northwest Regional Planning Commission has produced an informative video on this important issue that is available to you. If you have questions or to receive a copy, please contact Jen at jbarton@nwrpc.com or 715-635-2197.

PAGE 14 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

OBITUARIES Dorothy L. Peterson Dorothy L. Peterson, widow of Eric W. Peterson, entered into rest at United Pioneer Home on Jan. 30, 2016, at the age of 101 years, 8 months and 5 days.

She was the only child of the late Emil A. and Nellie (Chell) Johnson, of Frederic, Wis. Dorothy was born May 25, 1914, and grew up on the farm homesteaded by her paternal grandfather, F. O. Janssen, who immigrated to America from Gagnef, Sweden, in 1868, together with R.P. Peterson and their wives.

Dorothy was confirmed in the Lutheran faith in 1927 and was a member of the West Sweden Grace Lutheran Church. She attended West Sweden Graded School and Frederic High School, graduating as salutatorian in 1932.

In 1933 she graduated from Polk County Teachers College at St. Croix Falls, Wis., as valedictorian of her class.

Dorothy loved music and began playing piano at age 9, and at 19 began playing piano for local dances with the Peterson Brothers Orchestra. In 1936 she married the band’s drummer, Eric W. Peterson. In 1939 their only child, Roselyn, was born.

Eric’s brothers, Herbert on guitar and Johnny on accordion, completed the band and did vocals in Swedish, English and Polish and also played violin. They provided lots of good family fun with crowds dancing to polkas, waltzes, schottisches, circle, two-steps and Flying Dutchman. Later, Johnny and Herbert moved to Duluth, Minn., and Dorothy and Eric formed the Merrymakers Band, with Jim Glockzin on saxophone and their daughter, Roselyn, on vocals and saxophone.

Dorothy and Eric were dairy farmers on the original homestead, and Dorothy helped milk cows, feed calves and drove tractor in addition to housework and gardening.

She was also a member of the West Sweden Homemakers Club, and for many years volunteered playing piano at nursing homes in Siren, Frederic and Luck.

In 1958, daughter Roselyn married William Brunkow.

He was drafted into the Army and was stationed at Fort Gordon, Ga. Soon Dorothy and Eric had three granddaughters, Kim, 1960; Sherri, 1962, and Julie, 1965. The granddaughters loved visiting the farm in the summer and making pets out of the cows, calves, cats and dogs.

The grandkids, too, inherited a love for music, Kim on clarinet, Sherri on trumpet and Julie on saxophone.

Dorothy’s great-grandchildren, Katie, Chandler, Blake and Gabriel also enjoyed visiting the farm and great-grandma.

After her husband Eric’s death in 1975, Dorothy continued living on the farm. The two of them had planned a trip to Sweden, but it never materialized.

In 1990 Dorothy’s trip to Sweden came true and she, Rosalyn, Bill and Sherri made a trip to Gagnef, Sweden, to visit cousins Alver and Karin Trogen and sons and Alan and Conny and other relatives. It was a wonderful trip, visiting and sightseeing, especially since Dorothy spoke both English and Swedish! Dorothy resided at United Pioneer Home for almost seven years, where she received excellent, loving care by nurses and staff.

She is survived by daughter, Roselyn Brunkow, Augusta, Ga.; her dear friend, Floyd Fenton, Palm Coast, Fla.; granddaughters, Kim (Dan) Harris, Appling, Ga., Sherri (Joe) Hooper, Augusta, Julie (Tim) Long, Thomason, Ga.; great-grandchildren, Katie (Robert) Wethington, Appling, Chandler Mayenschein, Aiken, S.C., Blake Mayenschein, Boone, N.C., Gabriel Brunkow Schnell, Augusta; cousin, Don (Marlys) Chell, Grantsburg, Wis.; nieces, Leona Krieg, Deniece (Don) Noe, Beatrice (Vern) Redlich and Shirley Theis; nephews, Ken (Kathi) Peterson, Steve (Barbara) Peterson and Roger (Debbie) Peterson. Since many family members are from a distance, a memorial service will be announced in the spring.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic is in charge of arrangements.

Harold J. Ward Harold J. Ward, 90, of Osceola, Wis., died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at his home.

Harold was born July 6, 1925, in Erin Prairie, Wis., to William and Delia Ward. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and attained the rank of coxswain. On Aug. 27, 1949, he married his wife, Constance, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Cylon, Wis. He was a journeyman plumber and pipe fitter for over 40 years. Harold was active in the Knights of Columbus, he was Grand Knight in 1991 and was the 1998 Knight of the Year for Council No. 6567. In his free time, Harold enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a very handy repairman, and was always keeping his yard looking nice.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Ethel and Donna; and brother, Hugh. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Constance; daughters, Sharon, Gail (Jim) and LaVonne (Eugene); sons, Gary and Gregory; grandsons, Bradley, Brian, Jacob, Sean and David; granddaughters, Angela and Kate; great-grandchildren, Olivia, Logan, Geneva, Guiliana, Vincent and Franca; brother, John (Esther); and sister, Marjory.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Osceola at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11. There will be visitation one hour prior to the service at church. Interment with military honors will be in St. Mary Cemetery in Farmington. Arrangements by the Grandstand Funeral Home.

Vernon Bernard “Red” Reiter

Constance Sue Bowar

Vernon Bernard “Red” Reiter, 77, of the Town of Bone Lake, Polk County, Wis., passed away at United Pioneer Home in Luck, Wis., on Tuesday morning, Feb. 2, 2016.

Vernon was born in Rockville, Minn., on Aug. 7, 1938, to the late Henry F. and Theresia (Schreifels) Reiter, the second oldest of eight children. He attended St. Boniface parish schools in Cold Spring, Minn., graduating from high school in 1956. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on May 31, 1956, was stationed in Germany, France and North Africa, and was honorably discharged on March 17, 1960.

During his time in the service, he had been stationed in West Germany where he met his future bride, Rosemarie Friedman. After his discharge, he returned to Germany as a civilian, and on Nov. 4, 1960, Vernon and Rosemarie were united in marriage. The ceremony was held in Enzberg, Germany.

Vernon returned to the United States with his bride in June of 1961. He then attended and graduated from Northwest Electronics Institute in Minneapolis. Vernon and Rosemarie initially lived in St. Paul and then Minneapolis. They then moved to northeast Minneapolis where they lived for 13 years, and later moved to New Brighton, Minn., residing there for 17 years. Vernon and Rosemarie moved to their present home in 1991, which Vernon had constructed on weekends while they lived in New Brighton.

Vernon was employed by Honeywell Corp. for 32 years. He began his career working in the electronics division. At the time of his retirement, Vernon was supervisor of trades at the New Brighton facility. He also worked for Walmart for several years before poor health forced him to quit his job.

Vernon was quite the handyman and was not only an electrical and electronics expert, he was quite mechanically inclined as well. He constructed his own home, as well as did his own remodeling and decorating. Vernon was an avid fisherman, and greatly enjoyed his fishing trips to Canada. He also enjoyed ice fishing.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Henry and Theresia Reiter; two brothers, Ronald Reiter and Marvin Reiter; and a sister, Joan Reiter.

Vernon is survived by his wife, Rosemarie; two sisters, Rena Webber and Dori Reiter; two brothers, Roger (Madeline) Reiter and Walter (Sheri) Reiter; sisters-in-law (his brothers wives), Joyce and Lorraine; and many nieces and nephews and their families.

A memorial service honoring Vernon’s life was held Friday, Feb. 5, at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 103 Birch St. E, Frederic, WI 54837. Interment will be held at Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted with Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Siren, Wis. Online condolences may be expressed at swedberg-taylor.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the International Pemphigus & Pemphigoid Foundation, 1331 Garden Hwy., Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95833; website pemphigus.org.

Constance Sue Bowar, 69, passed away Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, at her home in Danbury, Wis., after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

Throughout her battle she had an unwavering faith in God and used her struggle to reach out to others. Connie seemed comforted in the thought that God was using her for his purpose and felt blessed to have so much love and support from others.

Connie was born in Siren, Wis., on June 9, 1946, to loving parents, Donald and Ethel (Peck) Johnson of Danbury. She was the youngest of four siblings, her sisters, Margie and Phyllis, and brother, Ronald. She learned the value of a job well done and Christian example from her parents.

Connie graduated from Webster High School in 1964, and in the union of marriage to Larry Main was blessed with three children, Todd, Troy and Kerrie. Connie was remarried in 1988 to Terry Bowar, who had two children of his own, Chad and Jake. The couple resided happily at their home they built together in Danbury. They shared like minds, their love of God and their blended family.

Possessing a servant’s heart, Connie faithfully spent her life caring for family and friends through her cooking, baking, warm hospitality and especially worth mentioning, her cinnamon rolls. Connie had a true gift of connecting with people, through her nurturing love, willingness to lend a hand, sharing her faith, her sense of humor and her unending acts of kindness, which all translated into years of volunteer service for family, friends and community. Connie’s door was always open; she truly was a servant of God. Family is what Connie was all about, putting God first.

She loved and cared for Terry, followed closely by their blended family of five children and her eight grandchildren. One of her true joys was sharing in time with the grandchildren in their accomplishments, attending their activities and always lending a helping hand. She truly supported and encouraged her grandchildren to follow their dreams and showed them how to live by The Golden Rule.

Think of her living in the hearts of those she touched, for nothing loved is ever lost and she was loved so much.

Her surviving family members include Terry Bowar, her husband of 28 years; their children, Todd Main (Laura), Troy Main and Kerrie Washburn (Jarrod); Chad Bowar (Rita) and Jake Bowar. Grandmother to Matthew and Madison, Jack, Owen and Ava, Haylee and Samantha and Jordan. Sister to Ronnie (Gloria) Johnson, Margie (Gary) Weber and Phyllis (Ronald) Pardun. Connie had many other beloved family members including nieces and nephews, too numerous to list.

In loving memory of Connie, a memorial service was held at Siren Covenant Church, Saturday, Feb. 6. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Siren Covenant Church or The American Cancer Society. We thank God for Connie and special thanks to St. Croix Hospice and the Taylor Funeral Home. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home Webster. Online condolences can be made at swedberg-taylor.com.

Robert G. “Bob” Ranstrom Robert Gene “Bob” Ranstrom, 86, of Webster, Wis., passed away at his home on Sunday evening, Feb. 7, 2016.

Visitation will be held at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Webster on Thursday, Feb. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m.

The funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 12, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (LCMS), Webster, with his pastor, the Rev. Jody Walter, officiating.

Full military honors will immediately follow.

A fellowship luncheon will follow the services. Interment will be in Lakeside Orange Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted with Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster. Online condolences may be expressed at swedberg-taylor.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church (LCMS), 26681 Lakeland Ave. N., Webster, WI 54893.

Barbara Marie Stahler Barbara Marie Stahler, 86, longtime resident of Torrance, Calif., originally from Frederic, Wis., passed away peacefully on Feb. 3, 2016.

Barbara was born Dec. 8, 1929. She was the daughter of the late Eric and Alice Bloom of Frederic, sister to the late Mervyn Bloom and Janice Fenton.

Barbara was a loving and devoted wife of the late Homer Stahler, to whom she was happily married in 1956, and spent many years as his square dance partner. She is survived by her daughter, Carol; son-in law, Stephen Tatsumi; and cherished granddaughter, Kate Tatsumi, as well as loving nieces, nephews, numerous relatives and lifelong friends.

She was an avid square dancer, line dancer, sports fan, especially the Lakers, and loved train travel. Service will be held Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016, in Torrance, Calif. For further information please email oksteve@mac.com.

In honor of Barbara’s love of birds, the family requests any memorial contributions be made to The Audubon Society, Audubon.org.

Gerald A. Hacken Gerald A. Hacken, 74, passed away on Feb. 2, 2016, at his home in Lubbock, Texas. He was born March 8, 1941, to Arthur and Mildred Hacken.

Jerry grew up in St. Croix Falls, Wis., and attended school there. He joined the Navy, received two Bronze Stars, a National Defense Medal and a Vietnam Campaign Medal for his service in the Vietnam War. In 1990, he was united in marriage to Colette (Berg), he worked at St. Croix Falls Hospital for 25 years as a chief engineer. Jerry and Colette moved to Texas in 2002, where he volunteered at St. Vincent De Paul Society for over 7,000 hours of community service. Jerry also enjoyed traveling with Colette in their RV. He is survived by his wife, Colette; sister, Shari (Pete) Lien; his and Colette’s children, Dennis Hacken, Linda (Mike) Rademacher, Jenalisa (Dan) Hacken, Mike (Brenda) Berg, Nicole (Jeff) Allen and Mary Berg; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, along with many other relatives and friends.

Services will be held Monday, Feb. 15, at 10:30 a.m., at the Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lubbock, Texas. Father Rudy will be officiating.

For donations in Jerry’s name, please send to Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 9821 Frankford Ave., Lubbock, Texas, 79424.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

OBITUARIES Elvera “Vera” J. Amundsen

Carole Lynne Hagstrom

Carole Lynne Hagstrom, 71, of St. Croix Falls, Wis., passed away Feb. 4, 2016, surrounded by her family. She was born Sept. 22, 1944, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Harry and Virginia LaMere. She was preceeded in death by her father, Harry LaMere; mother, Virginia Jackson; stepfather, Dale Jackson; and sister- and brother-in-law, Lois (Henry) Nick.

Carole graduated from Robbinsdale High School in 1962, the following year she went to the University of Minnesota for her degree as a licensed practical nurse. She started her career in nursing until her retirement in 2013.

She enjoyed nursing in all capacities, however, she especially enjoyed nursing homes and group homes for adults and children.

Carole married her husband of 35 years on Oct. 22, 1980, in Watertown, S.D. Carole was an avid animal lover.

She raised and showed cats, her Boston terriers and, most of all, her ponies. She enjoyed competing with her ponies and winning multiple championships in halter and pleasure driving. When she was not at a show she was busy with her flowers, and did she love her orchids. Carole enjoyed travel from San Francisco, Calif., to Sedona, Ariz., and Alaska.

Carole was noted especially as a strong leader, providing good insight to her children and grandchildren. Her strength and passion was exuberant in all that she did.

Her noted saying was, “If you’re going to do something, do your best and do it well or don’t do it at all.”

Carole is survived by her husband, Gerald; daughter, Becky Payne (Shawn); son, Larry Fortier (Leila); grandchildren, Courtney Losey (Chance), Travis Lundeen, McKenzie Fortier and Luka Hamer; along with nieces and nephews. She is also survived by very special and close friends, Nicky Carpenter and Rocky, Mary Truent, Jerry Geror, Darlene Steinhauer and many others she has worked with and shown with.

Visitation will be Sunday, Feb. 14, from 4-7 p.m., at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola, grandstrandEvelyn Margaret Johansen, 92, passed away Feb. 1, funeralhome.com. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., 2016, at the Pioneer Home, Luck, Wis. on Monday, Feb. 15, at Bethesda Lutheran church. InterShe was born Feb. 13, 1923, in Duluth, ment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Minn., to Leon and Margaret (Robertson) Kirk, and lived in Ladysmith, Wis., and Sheldon, Wis., until 1938, when the family moved to Luck to live on her grandparents, Paul and Marie Kirk’s, Wyatt Edward Marek passed away Monday, Feb. 1, West Denmark farm in Luck.

2016. He was born in St. Croix Falls,Wis. on Nov. 20, 2015, She graduated Luck High School and to Jesse Paul Marek and Samantha Namarried Leslie Johansen on Oct. 17, lissa Stoeklen.

1942, and they had two children, Dean He is also survived by paternal and Margaret (Marnie). She worked as a receptionist at the St. Croix Regional Medical Clinic and in the Luck grandparents, Edward and Sharlene Marek; maternal grandparents, John Public School kitchens.

Newlyweds Evelyn and Leslie bought the Christen (Jessica) Stoeklen and Deana (Bradley) Pedersen farm from Christen’s nephew, Martin (Inger) Adolphson; great-grandparents: Rita Pedersen. It was one of the first farms in West Denmark, and Bruce Mortenson and Mitsy and built in 1876. In 1950, the family moved across the road Terry Adolphson; and many aunts and to the Anders Miller farm north of CTH N. Several years uncles and their families.

He was preceded in death by after Leslie retired from the Polk County Highway Department, the couple moved to Eau Claire, Wis., and great-grandparents John Stoeklen, and Todd and Judy then to Chippewa Falls, Wis., and in 2002 they returned Breault; Evelyn and Edward Marek Sr., and Joe and Lorraine Rudd. to Luck, where Leslie died in 2007.

The funeral service for Wyatt was conducted TuesIn retirement, they traveled throughout the U.S., Europe, Scandinavia, Mexico and Canada. day, Feb. 9, at Grace Lutheran Church with the Rev. The customs and traditions of the West Denmark com- Thomas J. McShannock officiating. Arrangements have munity gave Evelyn an appreciation of her Danish heri- been entrusted with Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home and tage which she imparted to her family. She was an active Cremation Services, Siren. Online condolences may be member of the West Denmark Lutheran Church. In 1975 expressed at swedberg-taylor.com. the log house from their Pedersen farm was dismantled, relocated and restored as part of the Old World Wisconsin Outdoor Ethnic Museum at Eagle, Wis., and is part of the Danish farm site. The funds for the project came from the Danish government and Danish Queen Margrethe Barbara Janice Hoag, 81, of Webster, Wis., passed away and Prince Henrik dedicated the house when they visited in 1976 as part of the U.S. bicentennial celebration. Feb. 4, 2016.

Barb was born Feb. 13, 1934, to James and Bernice (JaeThe Johansens toured the house with them, and Evelyn enjoyed talking with the queen about her life in the log ckle) Smith. As a child she grew up and helped out on her parents farm. After high school she attended beauty house as a bride.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her hus- school.

In the early ‘60s she moved from Palmyra, Wis., to band; son-in-law, Alvin Lemke; daughter-in-law, Kathy Johansen; siblings, Gladys (Raymond) Niel- northern Wisconsin with her husband, Norm and daughsen, Ray (Harriet) Kirk, Grace (Ted) Anderson and ter, Denise.

Barb had always been a hard worker and worked a their spouses; and brother-in-law, Donald Peterson.

Survivors include her sister, Marie (Donald) Peterson; number of different jobs. She enjoyed coffee with family children, Dean Johansen and Margaret Johansen; grand- and friends. She also enjoyed gardening and her flowers. children, Edward (Laura) Johansen, Eric (Carrie) Johan- Barb spent many weekends and holidays at the lake with sen and Anne Johansen; step-grandchildren, Ryan, Jeff, family, where she could sit by the fire or go fishing. She David Dixon and Jodi (Larry) Olson; 24 great-grand- retired from the Inter-County Leader at the age of 78.

Barb was preceded in death by parents, James and Berchildren and step-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends. Evelyn’s remains will be nice; husband, Norm; and son-in-law, David Knott Sr. She leaves behind daughter, Denise (Dave Butterbrodt); interred in the West Denmark Cemetery.

A family committal service will be held at a later date. granddaughter, Nicole (John) Kevo; grandson, David Memorials will be directed to the West Denmark Lu- Knott Jr. (Sandy); great-grandchildren, Silas, Jace and theran Church and the Danish Immigrant Museum, Elk Alena, and many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 13, at 1 Horn, Iowa. p.m. with visitation from noon - 1 p.m., at Swedberg-TayAn online guest book is available at rowefh.com or wicremationcenter.com. Arrangements are entrusted lor Funeral Home Webster with Pastor Carl Heidel officito Rowe Funeral Home in Luck, 715-472-2444, and the ating. Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown, Funeral Home Webster. Online condolences can be made at swedberg-taylor.com.

715-825-5550.

Elvera “Vera” J. Amundsen, 100, of Frederic, Wis., passed away Feb. 2, 2016, at Frederic Nursing and Rehab.

Vera was born on Easter Sunday, April 4, 1915, to John and Anna Olson. She attended Spring Brook Grade School and Frederic High School. She married Gandil Madsen and to that union a son, Robert Madsen, was born. Gandil lost his life at the early age of 28 when he drowned in a boating accident. She moved back from Minnesota to Wisconsin where she met, and later married, Howard Amundsen. To this union twin daughters were born on Feb. 14, 1950, Judith Marie and Julien Mary.

For most of her life, Vera was a seamstress, sewing and altering clothing for other people. She also worked as a custodian in the Frederic Schools for 17 years. She retired from there in 1983, and she then drove for the aging program out of Balsam Lake as a volunteer driver for 15 years until 1998. She loved life and people, and truly loved her work. She continued to take people to their appointments and to church at Pilgrim Lutheran Church every Sunday morning. She loved her Lord and her church.

Preceding her in death were her husbands, parents, brother, sisters and many other relatives and friends. She leaves to mourn in her passing, her son, Robert (Diana) Madsen; twin daughters, Judith (Ed) Janovsky and Julien (Brian) Croteau; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Frederic on Monday, Feb. 8, with the Rev. Paul Peterson officiating and Mary Lou Daeffler as organist. Interment was at Bone Lake Cemetery. Pallbearers were Greg Miller Jr., Jodi Miller, Brandon Johnson, Christopher Paulson, Ross Spencer and Amanda Spencer.

An online guestbook is available at rowefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic, 715-327-4475.

Evelyn Margaret Johansen

Wyatt Edward Marek

Vicki L. Hanson Vicki L. Hanson, age 64, passed away at the MCHS in Bloomer, Wis., on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016.

She was born to Lawrence and Edna (Olson) Bremer on July 15, 1951, and married Steve Hanson on Nov. 15, 1969, in Webster, Wis. Steve and Vicki were the owner/operators of Willies RV in Bloomer for many years. Vicki loved to do yard work and in her free time she enjoyed reading, playing with her dogs, watching the Packers and hopping around town to see what was going on with her friends and her family.

She is survived by her mother, Edna Bremer; children, Lori (Scott Breezee) Hanson and Carl Hanson; grandchildren, Lydia and Derrick Breezee; siblings, Loreli Stone, Valerie (Wayne) Knipfer, Janice Hornewer, Connie (Miles) Spafford, Bonnie (Eddy) Bruss, LaVonne Mason, Patsy (Dale) Lokker, Geri (Joe) Zacharias and George Bremer; brothers-in-law, Serge (Debbie) and Greg “Larz” (Chris) Hanson; sisters-in-law, Margaret (DeWayne) Derksen and Mary Beth (John Wainwright) Hanson; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends; and her faithful canine companion, Dani.

She was preceded in death by her father, Lawrence; and husband, Steve.

A memorial service will be held at the Olson Funeral Home in Bloomer on Thursday, Feb. 11, at 1 p.m., with a visitation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home before the service on Thursday. Online condolences may be expressed at olsonfuneralhomebloomer.com.

Patricia Rommel Van Patten Patricia Rommel Van Patten passed away on Feb. 4, 2016, at the age of 76 in Punta Gorda, Fla., with her loving husband, Ken, and her family by her side.

She was born to Myron and Viola Rommel in Moorehead, Minn., and was raised and schooled in Minneapolis, Minn. She lived and worked in the Clam Falls, Wis., area for 15 years, where she was married to Lyle (Wally) Nelson for 13 years. Their son, Walter L. Nelson (Wally), was born in 1963, and he lives in Allentown, Penn.

Throughout her working career, she enjoyed accounting in property management, general contracting and wearing many hats as controller in her husband’s cell tower business located in Minnesota, Virginia and Washington, D.C. In 1999, she and her husband, Ken, retired to enjoy the little paradise of Punta Gorda, Fla. She will be greatly missed by her husband, Ken; her son, Walter Nelson (Lori); granddaughter, Rachel Schulley (Jason); and grandson, Preston Nelson (Tori); and two great-granddaughters, Ava and Elsa (Schulley). She will also be missed by her sister, Charlotte Curry; brother, John Rommel (Sandy); four stepchildren, Lorrie Link (Gary), Leslie Van Patten, Richard Van Patten, Sage Walker-Hawn (Chris) and their families.

A celebration of her life was held at Charlotte Memorial Funeral Home and Cemetery, 9400 Indian Spring Cemetery Road, in Punta Gorda, Fla., on Sunday, Feb. 7, and a memorial service will also be held in Frederic, Wis., at a later date.

To express condolences to the family please visit charlottememorial.com and sign the online guest book.

Contributions can be made to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association.

Barbara Janice Hoag

Thank You

Oscar Wilde said, “There are times when sorrow is the only truth.” The Stettler and Tobias families wish to extend our heartfelt thank-you to those who reached out following the loss of Heather.

Whether your gift was monetary, a card, a prayer, a hug or all of the above, THANK YOU. 641630 26rp 26Lp

THE FAMILY OF LEONARD ERICKSON

We are full of gratitude when we say many thanks to family and friends who helped us through the difficult time of losing our dad. Thanks to all for the acts of kindness and sympathy, visits, cards and kind words.

We want to express a special appreciation to Carol Gunderson (meals on wheels), the Milltown First Responders and the staff at St. Croix Valley Medical Center for their compassionate care.

We would also like to say thank you to Pastor Rau for his wonderful sermon, the organist and singer for the beautiful music and to the ladies of the Milltown Lutheran Church for the delicious lunch. A sincere appreciation to Kolstad Funeral Home for his professional arrangements and caring service.

Dad treasured his friends at the Milltown VFW. They have been so kind and caring and were like his second family. We thank you so much for that.

Last, but not least, a huge thank-you to Dad’s nephew Marvin Johnson and his granddaughter Kathy Hutton who were always so willing and able to help Dad with whatever he needed.

We were so blessed to have Dad for 92 years.

641637 26Lp

Nancy and John Nielsen, Lynne and George McLeod

PAGE 16 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

CHURCH NEWS Poverty or riches

A

nimals are funny creatures. A cat will guard its dishful of food whether it is hungry or full, just because it belongs to him. A squirrel might hoard so many acorns for later eating that it will forget where some of its stashes are.

Most animal behavior is nature-driven, but an animal’s personality also can determine its behavior, just like people. We all have our reasons for acting like we do and, unfortunately, many times our reasons are selfish.

The Bible speaks often against selfishness, against wanting more and more, but it also has much to say about

Tips on helping teen daughter navigate new relationships Q: My teenage daughter is a “crushaholic.” She’s constantly seeking affirmation from boys, and she’s either high as a kite or sad and depressed, depending on the attention she gets. Is this normal?

Jim: I don’t have daughters, but my boys are 15 and 13, so I’m seeing the upheaval of the teen years firsthand. The physical, mental and emotional changes can be intense, especially for young girls.

As with many developmental issues, this one has roots that are good and Godgiven. Puberty floods a teen girl’s brain with hormones that awaken her heart to relationships, love and romance. But without proper boundaries, the longing to be desirable to members of the opposite sex can spiral to where a girl believes her worth is dependent on a guy’s validation. It can become an obsession leading young girls into relationships that they don’t have the emotional maturity to handle. When a relationship goes wrong, a girl feels like her life is falling apart.

What can a parent say to help a teenager who’s experienced a broken heart?

Don’t say anything at all at first. Just put

Eternal perspectives Sally Bair poverty. Proverbs 30:8-9 address both situations. “Give me neither poverty nor riches—feed me with the food allotted to me; lest I be full and deny you, and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or lest I be poor and steal, and profane the name of my God.” Poverty has caused many people to steal and riches have caused many to turn their backs on God, who supplies your arms around her, hold her, let her cry and help her to rebuild the foundation of trust and understanding of a loving relationship. When it is time to speak, don’t minimize or trivialize her feelings. She’ll probably think this is the worst thing that has ever happened to her, and at this point in her life it may be.

If you haven’t yet, you’ll want to begin helping her learn to navigate a culture that is saturated with unhealthy messages about sexuality and relationships.

You can’t shield her from it, but you can equip her with the tools to manage it.

Focus on the Family would be happy to provide you with helpful resources to work through this or other challenges you might be facing. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 800-A-FAMILY. ••• Q: It’s sad to say, but I’ve come to where I dread Valentine’s Day. The love and romance hype only shines a light on what a disappointment my own marriage has become. Is there any hope for us?

Greg Smalley, vice president, Family Ministries: I feel for you and understand how lonely Valentine’s Day can be for those in hurting marriages.

There are many reasons why love in marriage fades. Serious problems like addiction, abuse, extramarital affairs and

all our needs. Compared to those who live in impoverished Third-World countries, Americans are rich in worldly goods. Yet many of us are poor in spirit because we put our trust in our belongings rather than in God. “I don’t need God,” many people believe. “I can help myself. After all, look at all I have.” Not only may our possessions become too important, so may our education, our position in society, our job and even our health take high priority in our lives.

True freedom, however, comes to those of us who trust in God’s provision and are willing to sacrifice and share what we have, whether it’s a little or a lot. And we don’t have to worry about theft, maintaining our stuff, or what will happen to it when we’re gone.

Focus on the family Jim Daly mental illness can certainly extinguish feelings of romance. For those who’ve encountered these painful experiences, I’d encourage you to seek counseling.

Our own licensed counselors would be happy to help point you in the right direction.

Husbands and wives can “fall out of love” for other reasons, too. The busyness and stress of work, kids and finances can cause a couple to drift apart over the years until one day they realize the only thing they share is a tube of toothpaste. If this is where you find yourselves, don’t give up. There are many things you can do to get your marriage back on track, but sitting back and waiting for flowers isn’t one of them.

One remedy I’m a firm believer in is a couple relearning how to have fun together. In fact, it’s the whole idea behind Focus on the Family’s “Date Night Challenge.” We know the concept works based on research showing that 92 per-

Most of us Americans are not used to living a simple life, having enough but not too much. But when we love the lLord Jesus Christ enough to put him first in our lives, above all else, we will have contentment and peace. Jesus says it best. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33) Lord, thank you for supplying us with all our needs. May we never be like the selfish cat or the hoarding squirrel. Rather, cause us to be joyful and satisfied with whatever you give. And give us a generous heart so we’ll want to share what we have with others. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair can be reached at sallybair@ gmail.com) cent of couples who make date night a priority have increased satisfaction in their relationships. I’d strongly encourage you to give it a chance. You can learn more by visiting focusonthefamily.com/ marriage/promos/date-night-challenge.

You’ll find fresh date night ideas, and if you want, you can dig even deeper by getting a copy of my book, “Take the Date Night Challenge.”

••• Jim Daly is a husband and father, an author, president of Focus on the Family and host of the “Focus on the Family” radio program. Catch up with him at jimdalyblog.com or at facebook.com/DalyFocus. Copyright 2014 Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995. International copyright secured.

All rights reserved. Distributed by Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106; 816-581-7500. This feature may not be reproduced or distributed electronically, in print or otherwise, without written permission of Focus on the Family.

Brought to you by:

Zion Lutheran Church Bone Lake

Church listings sponsored by the following area businesses: BASS LAKE LUMBER

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOC.

• Complete Line of Building Supplies & Lumber • Cabot’s Stains Grantsburg, Wis. 715-488-2471 or 715-327-8766

Printers & Publishers • Office Supplies

CUSHING

STATE FARM INSURANCE COMPANIES

CUSHING COOPERATIVE SOCIETY Feed Mill - Grain Dept.

Cushing, Wis. 715-648-5215

FREDERIC BREMER BANK, N.A. Full-Service Banking Member FDIC Frederic - Danbury - Siren

DAEFFLER’S QUALITY MEATS, INC. Wholesale & Retail Meats Custom Butchering & Processing Phone 715-327-4456

Frederic, Wis. - 715-327-4236 Shell Lake, Wis. - 715-468-2314 Siren, Wis. - 715-349-2560 St. Croix Falls, Wis. - 715-483-9008

Corey T. Arnold, Agent Frederic, Wis. Phone 715-327-8076

BEAN’S COUNTRY GRIDDLE

LUCK

SIREN

WEBSTER

VAN METER’S MEATS

D & L FINANCIAL SERVICES

HOPKINS SAND & GRAVEL, INC.

Government Inspected Slaughtering and Processing, Sausage making • Ham & Bacon Cured & Smoked Sides and Quarters of Beef and Pork Available Old-fashioned Fresh Meat Counter Tim Van Meter and Ross Anderson, Owners Luck, WI 54853 Plant 715-472-2141

10022 Elbow Lake Road Siren, Wis. 54872 715-689-2539

Sand, Gravel, Ready-Mix, Concrete, Black Dirt, Dozer Work, Landscaping & Septic Tanks Installed Hwy. 35 North Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-4157 M.P.R.S. #03059

SWEDBERG-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-7131

Churches 8/10

ALPHA

Hwys. 35 & 48, Downtown Frederic Phone 715-327-5513

NORTHWESTERN WISCONSIN ELECTRIC CO.

“Your Electric Servant” Serving Polk & Burnett Counties “Use Energy Wisely”

CARLSON-ROWE FUNERAL HOME

Frederic, Wis. - 715-327-4475

Any area business wishing to help sponsor the church listings should contact the Leader at 715-327-4236.

FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Church DirectoryCHURCH DIRECTORY ADVENTIST

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST - FREDERIC 605 Benson Road; Pastor John Redlich Sat. Worship 11 a.m.; Sabbath Schl. 9:30 a.m.

ALLIANCE

ALLIANCE

ALLIANCE CHURCH OF THE VALLEY 1259 Hwy. 35 S., St. Croix Falls Senior Pastor Gary Russell Sunday Worship: 8:30 & 11 a.m.

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

WORD OF LIFE CHURCH Meeting in homes.

Elder: Cliff Bjork, 715-755-3048 Sun. Fellowship - 10 a.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

LUTHERAN

LUTHERAN

BALSAM LUTHERAN CHURCH 1115 Mains Crossing, Amery 1/2 Mile South Hwy. 8 On 110th St. Sun. Worship 8:30 a.m.; Sun. School 9:45 a.m.

BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR LUTHERAN (WELS) Gene E. Jahnke, Pastor, 715-635-7672, Hm. 715-354-7787, Hwy. 70 at 53, Spooner Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School & Bible Classes For All - 10:45 a.m.

BETHANY LUTHERAN - BRANSTAD Pastor Jay Ticknor, 715-463-5746 3 miles So. of Grantsburg on Hwy. 87 Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

BETHANY LUTHERAN - SIREN Hwy. 35, 1/2 blk. N. Main St. Pastor Paul Peterson, Cell # 715-566-3758 Pastoral Serv. 715-349-5280 Sun. Worship - 8:30 a.m.; Sun. School 9:45 a.m.

BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws Pastor Peter Rimmereid, 715-755-2562 1947 110th Ave., Dresser Blended contemp./traditional serv. 9 a.m.; Education hour and fellowship 10:15 a.m.

BONE LAKE LUTHERAN bllc@lakeland.ws Pastor Ann Fenlason, 5 mi. E. of Luck on Hwy. 48, 1/2 mi. S. on I; Office - 715-472-2535; Pastor - 715-472-8153, 9 a.m. Sun. Schl., Adult Bible Study & Middle Schl cafe; 9:15 a.m. SHY; 10:30 a.m. Worship with Communion 1st & 3rd Sun. Of The Month; 11:30 a.m. Fellowship CHRIST LUTHERAN (LCMS) Pipe Lake CTH G & T, 715-822-3096 Pastor Steve Miller Sun. Serv. 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m. during schl. yr.; christlutheranpipelake.com CLAM FALLS LUTHERAN (AALC) Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt, 218-371-1335 715-327-4461 Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

FAITH LUTHERAN - BALSAM LAKE faithlutheran@lakeland.ws Pastor Diane Norstad 715-485-3800; CTH I & Mill Street Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:40 a.m.

FAITH LUTHERAN - GRANTSBURG Rev. Sandra Hutchens; 715-463-5388 myfaithlutheran.org Sunday Worship with Communion 9:30 a.m.; Sun. service radio broadcast 100.9 FM FIRST EVAN. LUTHERAN 561 Chestnut St., Taylors Falls, MN, 651-465-5265; tflutheran.org Sun. Worship 9 a.m. (Memorial Day - Labor Day) FIRST LUTHERAN - CUSHING Pastor Marilyn Crossfield, cushingparish.org 715-648-5323 or 715-648-5324 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.

FRISTAD LUTHERAN - CENTURIA ELCA - 501 Hwy. 35, 715-646-2357, Mel Rau, Pastor Sun. Worship 9 a.m.

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA 877 190th Ave., CTH G, Balsam Lake, WI (Fox Creek) serving@georgetownlutheran.net Interim Pastor Paul Settergren; Parish Office - 715-857-5580 Wor. Serv. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.

GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN Phone 715-327-4340, 715-327-8384, 260-336-5974, Pastor Thomas McShannock Worship 9:15 a.m.; Sun. School 10:30 a.m.

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter Office: 715-866-7191; Parsonage: 715-866-4622 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:45 a.m.

LAKESIDE COMMUNITY LUTH. - ELCA CTH H, 1/2 mi. N. of CTH A & H on H Church Off. 715-635-7791, Pastor Bill Schroeder Sun. Wor. w/Comm. 10 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.

LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING Pastor Marilyn Crossfield, cushingparish.org Sun. Wor. 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:45 a.m.

LUCK LUTHERAN Pastor Ralph Thompson - 715-977-0694 Office 715-472-2605; lucklutheran.org Sun. Wor. 8 & 10:30 a.m. (Sept. 13 - May 29); Sun. Schl. 9-10:30 a.m. (Sept. 27 - May 8) MILLTOWN LUTHERAN Vicar Angie Kutney, Pastors Mel Rau & Maggie Isaacson; 113 W. Main St.. W., 715-825-2453 9:30 a.m. Sunday Schl.; 10:30 Worship Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the Month

NEW HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH Senior Pastor Emory Johnson, 715-463-5700 newhopelutheranchurch.org 685 W. State Road 70, Grantsburg Sun. Wor. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sunday Worship - 9 a.m.

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER Pastor Jody Walter Office: 715-866-7191; Parsonage: 715-866-4622 Sunday Worship - 9 a.m. facebook/OurRedeemerWebster PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA) 2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 plcdresser.org Rev. Alan Buresh Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl 9:35 a.m.

PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA) Pastor Paul Peterson 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sun. Worship - 10:30 a.m. pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org REDEEMER EV. LUTHERAN (Wisconsin Synod) Pastor Timothy Blauret 200 N. Adams St., St. Croix Falls Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 8:15 a.m.

ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod) 350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Worship - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. School - 10 a.m.

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LCMC 1614 CTH B, North Luck, 715-472-8190 Pastor Roger Kastelle Sunday Worship - 9 a.m.

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN (Missouri Synod) 140 Madison St. South, St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark K. Schoen Sun. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun.School - 10:30 a.m.

TRINITY LUTHERAN - ELCA 10 mi. W. of Cumberland on Hwy. 48 (McKinley) Interim Pastor Paul Settergren Parish Office 715-857-5580 Church 715-822-3001 Worship Service - 9 a.m.; Sunday School - 10:15 a.m.

TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN Hwy. 70 East, 715-689-2271, Pastor Carl Heidel Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

TRINITY EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH (WELS) 300 Seminole Ave. (Hwy. M), Osceola, WI 715-294-2828, Pastor David Rosenow www.trinity.osceola.com Sunday Worship 9 a.m., Bible Class 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Worship 7 p.m.

WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN Pastors Mike & Linda Rozumalski 1 mi. west of Luck on N, 2478 170th St., Luck Sunday Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

Fellowship 11 a.m.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - ELCA Rev. Rexford D. Brandt 447 180th St., Osceola, 715-294-2936 June 7, 2015 - Sept. 6, 2015 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN 1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, yellowlakelutheranchurch.org Pastors Douglas Olson, Roger Kampstra, Myron Carlson and Danny Wheeler Service at 9:30 a.m.

ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (LCMC) 5 miles E. of Frederic on W, 2 miles south on I; Church: 715-472-8660 Pastor Mike Fisk, 715-417-0692 Sunday Schl. & Adult Study 9:15 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

ZION LUTHERAN - EAST FARMINGTON (WELS ) Pastor Martin Weigand - 715-294-3489 Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Bible class 9:15 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.; Thurs. Serv. 4:30 p.m.

Communion 1st & last Sunday of month ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE Pastor Janeva Stromberg, 320-679-1012; Council Chair, 715-244-3301 Worship - 11 a.m.; Sunday School - 10 a.m.

ZION LUTHERAN - TRADE LAKE Pastor Thomas McShannock 715-327-8384, 260-336-5974 Fellowship - 10:30 a.m., Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m.

PRESBYTERIAN

PRESBYTERIAN

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN Pastor Barbara Anne Keely 715-483-3550 719 Nevada St., St. Croix Falls Fellowship - 10:15 a.m.; Sunday Wor. - 11 a.m.

METHODIST

METHODIST

ATLAS UNITED METHODIST - UPPER ST. CROIX PARISH Rev. Kris Johnson; Rev. Mike Brubaker, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST - UPPER ST. CROIX PARISH - GRANTSBURG Rev. Kris Johnson; Rev. Mike Brubaker 715-463-2624 Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:30 a.m.

DANBURY UNITED METHODIST 7520 Water St., 715-866-8646 Rev. Eddie Crise, Sr. Pastor Rev. Thomas Cook, Assoc. Pastor Sunday Worship - 8:45 a.m.

GRACE UNITED METHODIST - WEBSTER 26503 Muskey Ave., 715-866-8646 Rev. Eddie Crise, Sr. Pastor, Rev. Thomas Cook, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m., Sun. Worship - 10:30 a.m.

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST htslumc@gmail.com 1606 165th Ave., CTH I, Centuria Pastor Freddie Kirk, 715-485-3363 Sunday Worship - 8:30 a.m.

LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL Pastor Jack Starr Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST 3482 115th St., 715-866-8646 Rev. Eddie Crise, Sr. Pastor Rev. Thomas Cook, Assoc. Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST osceolaunitedmethodistchurch@gmail.com 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Fellowship - 11 a.m ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST UPPER ST. CROIX PARISH Rev. Kris Johnson; Rev. Mike Brubaker Sunday Worship Serv. - 10 a.m.; Sunday School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available ST. LUKE UNITED METHODIST - FREDERIC 100 Linden Street, Frederic Pastor “Freddie” Kirk, 715-327-4436 Sun. Wor. 10:30 a.m.; Wed. Serv. 5:15 p.m.

SIREN UNITED METHODIST 24025 1st Ave. So., 715-866-8646 Rev. Eddie Crise, Sr. Pastor Rev. Thomas Cook, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Wor. - 10:15 a.m.

(Nursery available) TAYLORS FALLS UNITED METHODIST 290 W. Government Street, 715-294-4436 Reverend Dr. Rolland Robinson Sunday Service - 10 a.m. with nursery Sunday School - Sept. - May at 10 a.m.

WOLF CREEK UNITED METHODIST Rev. Kris Johnson; Rev. Mike Brubaker Sunday Worship - 8:15 a.m.

COVENANT

COVENANT

CALVARY COVENANT - ALPHA Pastor Scott Sagle, 715-689-2541 Sunday Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sunday Wor. 10:30 p.m.

Elevator provided, welcome SIREN COVENANT Pastor Brian Pardun 7686 Lofty Pines Drive, Siren, 715-349-5601 Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

UNITED COVENANT - CLEAR LAKE Pastor Dan Pearson Sunday School 8:45 a.m.; Worship 10 a.m.

CATHOLIC

CATHOLIC

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Rev. Andy Anderson, 715-247-3310 255 St. Hwy. 35, East Farmington Mass Sunday 9 a.m.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG Rev. Tom Thakadipuram, 715-327-8119 Mass: Sat., 6:30 p.m.; Sun. 8:30 a.m.

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP Danbury - 7586 St. Rd. 77, 715-866-7321 Pastor - Father Michael J. Tupa Mass - Sat. 4 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m. (Sept.-May).

Reconciliation as per bulletin & by appt.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES Balsam Lake Father Gene Murphy; Pastor - 715-405-2253 Mass: Sat. eves. 6 p.m.; Sun. 8:30 a.m.; Tues. 5:30 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.

Sacrament of Reconciliation 7:30 a.m.

Sunday or by appt.

SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS & MARY Pastor Father Michael J. Tupa CTHs A & H - 715-866-7321 Crescent Lake Voyager Village area.

Mass Sun. 8 a.m., Thurs. 9:30 a.m.

Reconciliation as per bulletin and by appt.

ST. DOMINIC - FREDERIC Rev. Tom Thakadipuram, 715-327-8119 Mass: Sat. 4:30 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.

Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times ST. ANNE PARISH Rev. Andy Anderson, 715-247-3310 139 Church Hill Rd., Somerset Mass Sat. 5 p.m.; Sun. 7 a.m. & 11 a.m.; Tues., Wed., Thurs. & Fri. 9 a.m.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER Pastor Father Frank Wampach, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9:30 a.m.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST Pastor Father Michael J. Tupa, 715-866-7321 Cedar & Muskey Ave. - Webster Mass Sun 10 a.m., Wed. 5:30 p.m. (Sept.-May), Fri. 9 a.m. (Summer) ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH Pastor - Father Frank Wampach 490 Bench St., Taylors Falls, 651-465-7345 Sat. 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 7:30 a.m.

Tues. - Fri. 7:30 a.m.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC 1050 North Keller Ave., Amery, 715-268-7717 Father Gene Murphy, Pastor Sat. Mass 4 p.m., Sun. Mass 10:30 a.m.

Mass Wed. & Thurs. 9 a.m.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC Rev. Andy Anderson 255 E. 10th Ave., Osceola, 715-294-2243 Saturday Mass 4 p.m.; Sunday Latin Mass 8:30 a.m., Mass 11 a.m.

ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY

CENTURIA ASSEMBLY OF GOD Pastor Don Wiltshire, 715-640-6400 Centuria - Phone 715-646-2172 Sunday Service: 10 a.m.

OSCEOLA COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Larry Mederich, 715-294-4332 2492 Education Drive Saturday Serv. 6:30 p.m.; Sunday Serv. - 10 a.m.

Child care offered at both services SIREN ASSEMBLY OF GOD Pastor Andrew Bollant Morn. Serv. - 9:30 a.m.; Supervised Nursery; Wed. Evening Youth

EVANGELICAL

EVANGELICAL

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA) Pastor Justin Hosking, 942 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery, 715-268-2176 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

CROSSWALK COMMUNITY CHURCH Pastor Greg Lund, 715-327-8767 700 Churchwood Lane; 505 Old CTH W, Frederic Sunday School - 9 a.m.; Morning Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services HOPE EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH 933 248th St., Osceola Pastor Dave Williams Morning Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School Sept.-May 8:45 a.m.

Children’s Church & Nursery provided TRADE RIVER EVANGELICAL FREE Pastor Dale VanDeusen, 715-488-2296 or 715-488-2653 20296 Hwy. 87, Grantsburg Morning Wor. 9:30 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10:45 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services BAPTIST

BAPTIST

EAST BALSAM BAPTIST - BALSAM LK. 1816 108th St., CTH I Pastor Gabe Brennan, 715-857-5411 eastbalsam.org Wor. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10:30 a.m.

EUREKA BAPTIST 2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls 715-483-9464 Wor. Service - 9 a.m.; Adult Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.

FAITH FELLOWSHIP Hwy. 35 and CTH N., Luck Bill McEachern Pastor, 715-485-3973 Sun. Bible study - 9 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 10 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - AMERY 131 Broadway St., 715-268-2223; fbcamery.org; Email: churchoffice@fbcamery.org Reg. office hours: Tues.-Thurs. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Pastor Charlie Butt, Lead Pastor; Nick Buda, Associate Pastor Sun. Serv.: 9 - 10:15 a.m.; All ages Sun. Schl.

10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; Nursery available FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN 715-689-2125 or 715-689-2156 Mike Kleven, Lead Pastor Steve Ward, Assoc. Pastor of Visitation Sun. School (all ages) 9:30 a.m.; Church Serv. 10:45 a.m.; Nursery provided FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 Assoc. Pastor Dan Mielke Sunday Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m., 7 p.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - TAYLORS FALLS, MN Located across from elemen. school on West St., Pastor, Dr. Kevin Schumann; 651-465-7171 Sun. Morn. - Sun. School for all ages - 9 a.m.

Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.

FIRST BAPTIST - WEBSTER Church Phone 715-866-4111 Pastor Tim Quinn Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Worship - 10:45 a.m (Nursery provided) GRACE CHURCH OF OSCEOLA “The Cure for the Common Church” 722 Seminole Ave., Osceola Pastor Dr. Kent Haralson; 715-294-4222 or 715-755-3454; info@gracechurchosceola.com Sun.: Praise & Worship Serv. 9 am., Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m., Children’s Sun. School 10:45 a.m.

GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG 716 S. Robert St., Grantsburg, 715-463-5699 Sr. Pastor Brad Moore George Selbher, Assoc. Pastor Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Sunday Worship 10:15 a.m.

LIVING HOPE CHURCH Pastor Doug McConnell Youth Pastor Chris Radtke At Grantsburg High School, 715-463-5794 Sun. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

TRADE LAKE BAPTIST Pastor David Prince, 715-327-8402 Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.; tradelakebaptistchurch.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CHURCH OF CHRIST - WEBSTER Minister Garret Derouin, 715-866-7157 Musky & Birch St., Avail. in office 9 a.m. - noon, Tues.-Fri.; Sun. Bible Study 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

CHURCH OF CHRIST - FREDERIC Minister Guy McCarty Frederic Senior Citizen Building Robert Rutherford, 715-327-8387 Sunday Worship 9 a.m.

WESLEYAN

WESLEYAN

WOODLAND WESLEYAN Dairyland - Rev. Andrea Wittwer 715-244-3649 Sunday School 10 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

FULL GOSPEL

FULL GOSPEL

WOOD RIVER CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Dan Slaikeu 4 mi. SE of Grantsburg on Williams Rd. Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School 10:30 a.m.

HOPE FELLOWSHIP OF SOMERSET 231 Bluff Drive, 715-247-2435 Services are Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

DWELLING POINT Timbers Theatre in Siren, 912-424-5993 Pastors Bryan and Rebekah Davis Sunday Worship 10 a.m.

CHRISTIAN CENTER

CHRISTIAN CENTER

EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER 1751 100th Ave., Dresser Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Morning Wor. 10:30 a.m.

Evening Services Sun. 6 p.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

Call Pastor Darryl Olson at 715-755-3133 for information and directions

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX

HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX 523 1st St., Clayton, 715-948-2493 Fr. Christopher Wojcik, Pastor Sat. Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sun. Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago City, MN; holyx.net Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.

NAZARENE

NAZARENE

CALVARY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 510 S. Vincent, St. Croix Falls Rev. Richard Brunner, 715-483-3696 Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

FAITH COMMUNITY 7534 Peet St., Danbury, 715-656-4010 Pastor Jason Peterson Sunday Worship Service 10 a.m. & 7 p.m.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

ST. CROIX UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP 715-483-1113 201 N. Adams, St. Croix Falls Services On 1st 3 Sundays of the Month, 10 a.m. www.scuuf.org

NONDENOMINATIONAL

NONDENOMINATIONAL

CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN CHURCH 28509 CTH H, 1/8 mi. north of A&H intersection Pastor Tryg Wistad 715-635-4816 crossroadschurch@gmail.com Sunday Worship: 10 a.m.

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY - AMERY Interim Pastor Craig Jorgenson Sunday Worship 10 a.m.; Children’s Church: K to 6th Grade NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY 201 Hwy. 35, Dresser (formerly The Boulevard) Pastor Tony Minell, 715-417-1982; Office 715-417-0945 Sunday Wor. 9:30 a.m.; Nursery available.

NEW WINE CHURCH - CENTURIA 309 5th Street, 715-338-2751 Pastor Scott Petznick Sunday Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

NORTHERN PINES QUAKER MEETING 715-866-5016 or 715-733-0480 for time of meeting OSCEOLA MEDICAL CENTER SPIRITUAL CARE 2600 65th Ave., Osceola, 715-294-5645 Rev. Thomas Reaume MyOmc.org/specialtyserv 1chapel.php Chapel open daily for meditation.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN 1289 160th St. (Hwy. 65), St. Croix Falls, 715-483-5378 Senior Pastors Paul and Sonja Hanson Sunday Adult Bible Class 9 a.m.

Worship and Children’s Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

ST. PETER’S COMMUNITY CHURCH “Faith on Purpose” (Love God, Love People...period) faithonpurpose.org CTH F, Dresser, 715-553-1800, Pastor Rick VanGundy Sunday Worship 10 a.m.

church directory

ADVENTIST

PAGE 18 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

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Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1-866-309-1507 www.BaseCampLeasing.com (CNOW)

The Leader

February 29 FREE Coffee With Every Meal HOURS: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Daily Formerly Main Street Cafe

7721 West Main St. • Siren, WI

Entrees

Chateaubriand - Sliced tenderloin on a bed of truffle boschetto cheese-smashed baby reds finished with a drizzle of bearnaise.

Smoked salmon and horseradish-crusted salmon fillet drizzled with basil/citrus Beurre Blanc served with balsamic and brown-sugar seared kale.

Lobster tail with blue-crab-claw potato mash • King-cut prime rib with choice of potato.

Desserts

715-349-2536

Champaign zabaglione with fresh berries • Wood-fired tiramisu bread pudding topped with amaretto mascarpone and espresso ice cream • Chocolate/raspberry pot de creme.

Family Eye Clinic 304 1st St. So. Luck, Wis.

• Commercial Printing • Office Supplies • Daily UPS Pickup • Fax & Copy Service See us for all your printing needs.

Eye health exams, glaucoma checks, foreign body removal, full line of street wear, safety and sport wear, contact lenses

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION

Christopherson Eye Clinic

• Frederic, 715-327-4236 • Shell Lake, 715-468-2314 • Siren, 715-349-2560 • St. Croix Falls 715-483-9008

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Visit The Leader’s Website:

Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Phone (715) 472-2121

OPTOMETRISTS

341 Keller Ave. N. Amery, Wis.

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Daily: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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1/16

Phone 715-268-2020

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FEBRUARY 10, 2016 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Students of the Week Frederic

Grantsburg

Ashley Nelson has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. Ashley is in fifth grade and the daughter of Tim and Stephanie Nelson and the sister of Marissa, Travis, Aaron and Samantha. She has impressed her teachers with how hard she has been working and with her continual kindness. Her favorite subject in school is art. Because she loves animals so much (she has two puppies, two dogs, one rabbit and a cat), she wants to become a veterinarian.

Karlie Alexander has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. Karli is in seventh grade and the daughter of Jamie Worthington and Steve Alexander. She is involved in cross country, basketball, softball and Destination Imagination. She likes drawing, inline skating and watching movies. She is an excellent student and a very hard worker. She is also very funny and creative. She plans to attend college for a bachelor’s degree in art.

Kaili Jeske has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week.

Kaili is a junior and the daughter of Tory Jeske and Angela Johnson. She is involved in volleyball, bell choir, NHS, forensics and student council.

She earns very good grades in her classes and spends much time and effort working on the little things. She is a very responsible and kind student.

She takes great pride in her work. She plans to attend college.

Andrew Carlson has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. Andrew is a model student.

He always gives his best effort in all subjects. He likes science and recess the best. At home with his family, he enjoys playing with his sister, Elsa, and his trucks.

Caleb Greener has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. Caleb is in seventh grade and the son of Heidi Wright and Larry Greener. He is a student who is willing to participate in class and is always polite. He is involved in 4-H, choir, Friendship Games and works in the barn at home. In his spare time, he enjoys watching NASCAR races, playing computer games, Gameboy, watching movies and looking at maps.

Alaura Lemieux has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. Alaura is a senior and the daughter of Terry and Beth Lemieux. She is very responsible and hardworking. She is also outgoing, generous and always willing to help.

She is involved in drama club, art club, FCCLA, STAR events, quiz bowl, tennis and is a crew trainer at McDonald’s. She plans to graduate from college and move to California to act.

Luck

Navanna Wedin has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. Navanna is in third grade and the daughter of Aarin and Jillian Wedin. She works very hard for all of her teachers. She is a very positive student and always has a smile on her face. Her favorite subject in school is science. She enjoys riding bike, snowmobiling, sledding and playing with her older sister. She also has two older brothers. Her family has two pet dogs and three pet cats.

Frankie Bildeau Jr. has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. Frankie is in fourth grade. He has shown that he is a hard worker, will try his best and make good decisions. His favorite subject in math. He likes to play basketball and football in his free time.

When he grows up, he wants to be in the NFL or NBA.

Vincent Vogland is Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. Vincent is in fourth grade and the son of Eric and Sarah Vogland. He is a tremendous academic scholar. He excels in all subjects, but especially math and reading. He is a gifted writer. He always makes his teacher laugh out loud with his stories. He is also a role model with his excellent behavior and kind heart. The classroom wouldn’t be the same without him. His favorite subject is math and he enjoys playing basketball.

Ashley Bistram is Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. Ashley is a freshman and the daughter of Dale and Dawn Bistram.

She is prepared for class every day and always seems cheery and ready for new challenges. She is well organized, has great study habits and consistently does well on all assignments and tests. She is a great student to have in class. She is involved in band, choir, student government, swing choir and she tutors younger students. She would like to become a medical doctor.

Hannah Lemieux has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week.

Hannah is polite and respectful. She comes to class with a positive attitude and always does her best in everything.

She is always willing to help others when asked and never complains. She always has her work done on time and is a pleasure to work with.

Riley Anderson is Siren High School’s student of the week. Riley is a junior and the daughter of Bryn Anderson and Kraig Anderson. She is an active member of the choir and band. She is a member of the National Honor Society. She participates annually in solo and ensemble contest and forensics. She plays volleyball, basketball and softball. She is also in the musical production at school. She enjoys friends and family in her spare time.

Siren

Unity

St. Croix Falls

Aine Roberts has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. Aine is in fourth grade and she lives at home with her mom, dad, grandma, grandpa and three sisters. At home, they like to wrestle each other for fun. She says that she and her sisters have “lots of goofy fun!” At school, she likes to read. She also likes music, gym and art classes. When she grows up, she would like to be an actress. She often puts on plays with her cousins.

Noah Kazmierski has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. Noah is in eighth grade and the son of Bob and Angela Kazmierski. He has a brother, Skyler, and a sister, Maya.

He has two cats, Stinky and Fuji. His extracurricular activities are basketball and soccer. His favorite subject is math.

Noah is an outstanding student who brings energy and a smile to class every day.

Elsie Flom has been chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week.

Elsie is a freshman and the daughter of Todd and Kari Flom. She is involved in volleyball, basketball, softball and band. Outside of school, she enjoys hunting, fishing, skiing and anything else outdoors. She is an excellent and hardworking student. She plans on pursuing a career in natural resources.

Lydia Johnson has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. Lydia is in second grade and the granddaughter of Melissa Coon.

She is a very hard worker who strives to always do her best in school. She is well liked by adults and her peers because she is friendly and kind.

Camryn Hanson has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. Camryn is in fifth grade and the daughter of Kelley Mitchell and Matthew Hanson. She was chosen because she is a hard worker who participates actively in class. She is enthusiastic and has a bright smile that lights up the classroom.

Webster

Proudly Supporting Our Students Electricity • Propane 1-800-421-0283 www.polkburnett.com

Rylee Pardun has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. Rylee is in Tiny Tigers and the daughter of Gabby Marazzo and Adam Pardun. Her favorite color is purple and she always has a smile on her face. She wants to be a librarian when she grows up because she loves to read books. Her favorite part of school is learning about the Letterland characters.

Brianna Tew has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. Brianna is in fifth grade and the daughter of Nichole Tew and Kris Stave. She is a very sweet, kind and friendly young lady. She is very respectful to her peers and adults at school. She works hard and tries her best. She always follows directions and encourages her peers. She enjoys playing with peers, telling stories and helping others.

Hayley Helms has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week.

Hayley is a sophomore and the daughter of Robert and Holly Helms. She is an outstanding student and her favorite subjects are anatomy and physiology.

Her hobbies include competition dance, hanging out with friends and being with her brother.

Melodi Liljenberg has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. Melodi is a sophomore and the daughter of Michael and Angelic Liljenberg. She is a great student with a warm and friendly personality. She is assertive and dedicated to working hard. She has an outgoing personality.

She is involved in color guard, solo ensemble and volleyball. Her hobbies include fishing.

Supporting our area students and their accomplishments.

Stop In or Call Us Today

2547 State Road 35, Luck, Wis. (in the Evergreen Plaza)

www.sterlingbank.ws

Helping young people reach towards their goals and promote kindness in a world that sometimes doesn't remember the significance of it.

Helping people find their way in back in life.

LEADERNEWSROOM.COM

wingsontheweb.org

PAGE 20 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B • FEBRUARY 10, 2016

FEBRUARY

THURS. & FRI./11 & 12 Grantsburg • AARP tax assistance at the library, 715-463-2244 for appointment.

THURS.-SAT./11-13 Frederic • Book sale at the library, Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-1 p.m., fredericlibrary.org, 715-327-4979.

THURSDAY/11 Amery • Bingo at the VFW post, 6:30 p.m.

Events Coming

•

SEND YOUR COMING EVENTS ITEMS TO: INTER-COUNTY LEADER, BOX 490, FREDERIC, WI 54837 OR EMAIL leadernewsroom@gmail.com

Morning sky

Cumberland • Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers Early Stage, workshop at the hospital. 3 parts, 4 p.m., 4:30 p.m. & 5 p.m., alz.org/gwwi, 800-272-3900.

Luck • AARP Tax Aides at the library, 9 a.m.-noon. Call for appointment, 715-472-2770.

Rice Lake • College Goal Wisconsin, info and help on completing FAFSA, at WITC Conference Center, 6 p.m., 715-2347082, ext. 5345; 715-234-8176, ext. 5464.

Siren • Citizens Against Poverty meeting at the government center, 1-2:30 p.m., 715-349-7880.

St. Croix Falls

Balsam Lake

• COMPAS class on animated short films at the library, 4-6 p.m., 715-483-1777, scfpl.org.

• Movie “Pixies,” PG, at the library, 4:30 p.m., 715-4853215.

THURSDAY/18 Amery

Dresser

• Bingo at the VFW post, 6:30 p.m.

• SCRMC alumni meeting at Dresser Pizzeria, 11 a.m. lunch, 651-465-5023.

• GriefShare, support group for those grieving a death, at New Life Christian Community in Dresser, 6:30-8 p.m., 715-755-1431.

Balsam Lake • Polk-Burnett Bee Assoc. meeting at the justice center community room, 7 p.m., 715-554-1020.

Dresser

Frederic

• GriefShare, support group for those grieving a death, at New Life Christian Community in Dresser, 6:30-8 p.m., 715-755-1431.

• AARP Tax Aides at Golden Oaks, 9 a.m.-noon. Call for appointment, 715-327-8623.

Grantsburg

Frederic

• Older Wiser Learning Series at Crex Meadows, 1011 a.m., 715-463-2739, crexmeadows.org.

• Open house at the library, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 715-3274979.

Milltown

Luck

• Domestic violence family group, 5-6 p.m., 800-2617233.

• Domestic violence support group, 6-7 p.m., 800-2617233.

• American Legion & Auxiliary meeting at the village hall, 7 p.m.

Milltown • Domestic violence family group, 5-6 p.m., 800-2617233.

• Domestic violence support group, 6-7 p.m., 800-2617233.

Siren • Northwoods Flyers Experimental Aircraft Assoc.

Club meets at the government center, Rm. 165, 7 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

Spooner

• Dollars for Scholars chili/soup cook-off at SCF school, 5-7:30 p.m. & silent auction, 715-483-2507, ext. 1300.

• Woodland Owners Forum, oak wilt, ash borers, etc., at the ag station, 6:30-8 p.m., 715-635-7406.

FRI. & SAT./12 & 13

St. Croix Falls • Healthy Habits for Healthy Aging at the library, 10 a.m., 715-483-1777, scfpl.org.

St. Croix Falls • Festival Theatre’s “Fully Commited” at Franklin Square. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, festivaltheatre.org.

Webster • Second Harvest food distribution at Connections, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-866-8151.

Webster

FRI.-SUN./19-21

• Flea market & bake sale at the senior center, 9 a.m.3 p.m., 715-866-4517.

St. Croix Falls

FRI.-SUN./12-14

• Festival Theatre’s “Fully Committed” at Franklin Square. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, festivaltheatre.org.

Luck • Luck Winter Carnival, pageant, Bingo, parade, B-ball tourney, www.discoverluck.com.

FRIDAY/12

FRIDAY/19 A February sunrise silhouettes a pine tree in southern Polk County. - Photo by Marty Seeger

Amery • Potluck and Bingo at the community center, noon meal, 1 p.m. Bingo, 715-268-6605.

Balsam Lake • Poco Penners meeting at the library building, 2 p.m., 715-648-5244, 715-825-5357.

Falun • Free bread distribution, every Friday until further notice at Trinity Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.

Frederic • Head injury support group at the library, 2 p.m.

Luck • Trivia contest at Cafe Wren, 7 p.m. Prereg. or walk in, 715-472-4700.

Siren • Spaghetti dinner fundraiser for Georgia Cederberg during basketball game at the school, 715-222-6541.

SAT. & SUN./13 & 14 Siren • Kids Pro Ice Racing on Crooked Lake, kidsproice.com, 715-225-0604.

Milltown • Dinner/dance fundraiser at the community center. Social 4-6 p.m.; dinner 6 p.m.; dance 7-10 p.m.

• Cancer aid & research 500 card party at VFW 6856, 2 p.m.

Osceola • Firefighters Ball at the airport, Doors Custom hangar, 7:30 p.m.-midnight, 920-248-9279.

Siren • 0.14K Walk/Run at Kris’ Pheasant Inn, school special ed fundraiser, 1-3 p.m., 715-349-5755.

Shell Lake • Love for Lozandier fundraiser at the community centert, 9 a.m.-2 p.m, Crafts, vendors, goodies.

St. Croix Falls • “The Golden Eagle Project” presentation at river assoc. office, 10 a.m. RSVP to 715-483-3300, stcroixriverassociation.org.

• Candlelight Night at Interstate Park, 6-9 p.m., 715-4833747, wiparks.net.

Webster

SATURDAY/13

• Used book sale at the library, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 715-8667697.

A&H

SUNDAY/14

• Lakes & Pines Sno-trails chicken BBQ, music, raffles, ect., on Trail #22, CTH A, noon-4 p.m.

Amery • Ruby’s Pantry at Congregational Church. Doors open 8:30 a.m. Dist. 9 a.m. $20 donation, 715-268-7390.

• Valentine Treasure Time & membership drive at the library, 10 a.m.-noon.

• Sonny Winberg to perform at Balsam Lutheran Church, 7 p.m., 715-268-9291.

• Scholarship fundraiser Winter Classic at Birch Street Bar, 1 p.m., 715-268-8922.

Clam Falls • Clam Falls Lutheran Church pancake breakfast, 811 a.m.

Grantsburg • Crex Meadows Nature Photography Club meets at Crex, 10 a.m.-noon, 715-463-2739.

• Ice-fishing contest on Big Wood Lake, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lewis • VFW Post 10232 meeting at the hall, 11 a.m.

Balsam Lake • Sportsmen’s Club booya, Bingo & raffle at Legion Post 278, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Siren • Sport show at The Lodge at Crooked Lake, 10 a.m.4 p.m., 715-656-3855, visitsiren.com

St. Croix Falls • Open song circle at the library, 4:30-6:30 p.m., 715501-4487.

• Festival Theatre’s “Hopelessly Romantic” at Franklin Square. 7:30 p.m., 715-483-3387, festivaltheatre.org.

MON.-WED./15-17

Blood drive at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 10 a.m.3 p.m., redcrossblood.org, 800-733-2767.

Milltown • Interfaith Caregivers 20th-anniversary open house, 133 Eider St., 2-4 p.m., 715-825-9500.

Balsam Lake • Brian Briski speaking on cover crops at the government center, 1:30 p.m., 715-485-8600.

Falun • Free bread distribution, every Friday until further notice at Trinity Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.

Milltown • Fish fry at the VFW.

St. Croix Falls

Spooner

• Free CPR classes at SCRMC Main Campus. Reg. required. 5-8 p.m., 715-483-0431.

• Brian Briski speaking on cover crops at the ag station, 10 a.m., 715-653-3506.

TUESDAY/16

SAT. & SUN./20 & 21

Amery

Danbury

• Diabetes support group meeting at the medical center, 1 p.m., 715-268-8000.

• AARP Tax Aides at the library, 9 a.m.-noon. Call for appointment, 715-268-6640

• Indoor Rendezvous trade fair at the Forts, 10 a.m.6 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sun.; muzzle-loading presentation midday Sat.

Clam Falls

• Festival Theatre’s “Ole & Lena Win a Cruise” at the community center. Sat. 7:30 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m., 715-4833387, festivaltheatre.org.

• Coffee hour at Clam Falls Lutheran Church, 9 a.m.

Dresser • Caregivers support group meeting at Peace Lutheran Church, 2 p.m., 715-755-2515.

Frederic • “Why do I need to give back to my community in 2016 and what is in it for me?” presentation at the library, 6 p.m., northwestalliancecf.org.

Luck • Ruby’s Pantry at Home & Away Ministries. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. $20 donation. Distribution noon-1 p.m., 715472-2535.

• Free medical clinic at Home & Away Ministries, 715472-7770 for appointment, myfreeclinic.org.

Osceola • Military family support group meeting at the community center, 6-7:30 p.m., 715-557-0557.

St. Croix Falls • Blood drive at the high school, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., 800-REDCROSS, redcrossblood.org.

Webster

Scandia, Minn.

SATURDAY/20 Balsam Lake • Tech time, all about apps, at the library, 10:30 a.m.noon, 715-485-3215.

• Candlelight hike on Unity School nature trail, 5-8 p.m., 715-825-2101.

Clam Falls • South Fork’s ice-fishing contest on Clam Falls Flowage, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Grantsburg • Snowmobile ride at Crex Meadows, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 715-463-2739, crexmeadows.org.

• Animal detectives snowshoe hike at Crex, 3-4 p.m., 715-463-2739, crexmeadows.org.

• Snowshoe hike at Crex, 6-8 p.m., crexmeadows.org, 715-463-2739.

• Author Sue Segelstrom book signing at the library, 10-11:30 a.m., 715-463-2244.

Luck

• AARP tax assistance at the library, 715-866-7697 for appointment.

• Burnett County Democrats meeting at Whitetail Wilderness Resort. Dinner early, meeting 6:30 p.m., 715-8696886.

• Bon Ton ice-fishing contest on Little Butternut. 8:30 register, 9 a.m. contest, 715-472-2959.

MONDAY/15

WEDNESDAY/17

• Chili/soup cook-off at Clover Meadow Winery for Burnett humane society, 3-6 p.m., 715-866-4096.

Webster

Amery • Suicide survivors support group meeting at the community center, 6:30 p.m., 715-268-9275, amerych.com.

Balsam Lake • Friends of the Library meeting, 5:30 p.m., 715-4853215.

Shell Lake Webb Lake • Ice Bowling tourney at Oak Ridge Inn, 715-259-3346, drinkatoakridge.com.

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