Dec. 7

Santa’s rounds to local towns

What’s your anti-drug?

Currents feature

Currents section

Leader

Snowy owl rescue Outdoors, page 18

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WED., DEC. 7, 2011 VOL. 79 • NO. 16 • 2 SECTIONS •

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December is nomination time for county and school boards PAGE 3

Robber found guilty, mentally competent

2010 Amery grocerty store incident may mean over 40 years in prison

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Pool status depends on donations PAGE 5

Storm strains soybean crop Gov. Walker requests federal disaster assistance for Burnett, Polk counties PAGE 10

Man charged with five counts of sexual assault Assaults occurred between 1992 and 2009 PAGE 7

Downtown St. Croix Falls was buzzing with activity last Saturday, Dec. 3, but this young man still found an opportunity to get Santa alone on a bench near the Overlook Deck, a golden opportunity to bend the jolly fellow’s ear before Christmas. The city’s Rivertown Holiday celebration drew hundreds. See Currents, page 11, for more photos.

- Special photo

Mug musings

At the risk of sounding like I’m channeling the late “60 Minutes” commenter, Andy Rooney, I just want to say I think I’ve reached critical mass when it comes to coffee mugs.

Priscilla Bauer

Gymnasts and grapplers start competition See SPORTS

When I was doing some sorting and throwing out of unnecessary knickknacks over the Thanksgiving weekend, I looked at my many mugs (that have mysteriously multiplied over the years) and said, “Enough!”

I don’t even drink my coffee from a mug; I prefer a cup, so what am I doing with all these mugs anyway?

Well, I guess I do have to take personal responsibility for starting the odd assortment, most of which are being stored (for what reason, I don’t know) in a kitchen cabinet. Others are doing more useful duty, holding pens on my desk. And then there are the special ones (well, at one time I must

If enough signatures are gathered, who would you like to see run against Gov. Walker in a recall election?

1. Russ Feingold 2. David Obey 3. Mahlon Mitchell 4. My candidate isn’t listed 5. I’m not paying attention to this issue Go to our online poll at www.the-leader.net (Weekly results on page 8)

Deaths

Benjamin Schommer Lawrence Olson Richard W. Fremont Robert T. Danielson Obituaries on pages 19B

INSIDE

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INSIDE THIS SECTION

$1

Who’d want a mug with my name on it? I mean Priscilla in Hawaiian is Pelekila, seriously? - Special photo have thought they were special) displayed on a shelf for all to admire.

I was about 8 years old when I saved up my money to send for a set of four Nestle Farfel mugs.

Briefly 3A Letters to the editor 9A Sports 11-17A Outdoors 18A Town Talk 6-7B Coming Events Back of B Currents feature 1B Behind the Signpost 5B Letters from Home 3B Cold Turkey 3B Just for Laughs 3B River Road Ramblings 4B Copyright © 2011 Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association Frederic, Wisconsin

See Mug musings, page 2

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

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Zucker to film Wisconsin tourism spot MADISON - He’s had his name attached as director, writer and producer on some of the funniest and most financially successful comedy films of the past three decades “Airplane,” “The Naked Gun” series, “Ruthless People” and the last two installments of “Scary Movie.” Now, after last working in his home state 40 years ago, David Zucker is returning to Wisconsin to shoot the winter 2012 TV commercial for the Department of Tourism.

This past summer, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, using research findings that conclude that “having fun” is the No. 1 motivator for leisure travel, embarked on a TV, radio, print and social media campaign around the theme of “fun.” “Who better to tell a Wisconsin winter fun story than Shorewood (Wis.) native, David Zucker,” Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett said. “Wisconsin natives have made a significant contribution to our worldwide arts and culture, and under David’s deft handling we expect he will also make an indelible contribution to marketing the state for tourism.” The commercial, which will depict both indoor and outdoor winter fun, will use the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and be shot on Dec. 15. It is scheduled to begin airing in Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul and Milwaukee the week of Jan. 9. “While I haven’t had opportunities to work in my home state, I remain a tried and true Wisconsin booster,” said Zucker. “I hope this is the beginning of working on more projects in the state.” - from Department of Tourism

Wisconsin Arts Board gives to Lamar RURAL ST. CROIX FALLS - For the fifth year in a row, Lamar Community Center has received funding from the Wisconsin Arts Board. This year’s award of $5,290 for creative movement for rural residents funds Latin Dance, Hip-Hop for Everyone, Kids Make Magic Moves, and hooping classes, along with a number of big group lessons at the Lamar Festival. “We’re thrilled to have the support from the arts board to help us bring opportunities to the area that might not otherwise be available,” says director Kathleen Melin. “The movement classes are creative and healthy and lots of fun.” Classes also emphasize outreach to youth and intergenerational activities. The creative movement classes are a part of Lamar’s programming in participatory arts.

Lamar also offers classes in sustainable living. Activities are onsite May through September and in partnership with area organizations the remainder of the year. Lamar is currently in a capital campaign to complete the renovation of the 1905 schoolhouse on the National Register, in order to offer year-round programming to area communities, with $125,000 of challenge grants. Lamar Community Center is located at 1488 200th St. in rural St. Croix Falls just two miles north of Hwy. 8. For further information about Lamar Community Center or to make a donation, go to www.lamarcommunity.org. - submitted

Leader

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Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association 303 N. Wisconsin Ave., Frederic, WI 54837 715-327-4236 • www.the-leader.net Manager • dougpanek@centurytel.net

Gary King

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The Polk County Deputies Association toy drive was deemed a huge success.

The first-time event, held at the Cricket’s Entertainment Center on Nov. 17, raised more than $4,000 and collected more than 200 toys. Shown at right, union President Anthony Puetz delivers a check to local Toys for Tots coordinator Rick Lombardo. All of the money and toys collected will stay in Polk County, benefiting needy families around the county. Close to 200 people were in attendance at the fundraiser. “It just goes to show how much people in this community care, how much they want to help,” stated Karl Beaupre, one of the organizers of the event, who extended gratitude to all the businesses who donated raffle prizes and helped with the event. Toys were given to the VFW in Milltown for their Operation Christmas campaign. Plans are already being made to make the event an annual one and to build on the success of the first one. “The more people we can get involved, the more money we can raise for the children of Polk County,” Beaupre noted. - Special photo

Mug musings/from page 1 Some of you might remember Farfel, the cute little cartoon dog who sang the praises of Nestle Quick, the chocolate powder you stirred into your boring white milk to make it taste yummers.

In the commercial for Quick, Farfel would open his mouth wide and sing, “Nestle’s got the very best,” then he’d pause, open his mouth even wider and sing, “Chaaahk-late,” snapping his teeth together loudly at the end of the last syllable.

I was fascinated by Farfel so when I saw the offer for the mugs bearing his image I had to have them.

And I still have them and wouldn’t think of giving them up. Every time I drink out of one it stirs up the sweet childhood memory of my mom making me hot chocolate with marshmallows. Besides they are collectibles now.

But as for some other mugs that have been hanging around (remember mug trees), maybe it’s time for them to go.

Like the one my former boss gave me, a souvenir from his trip to Hawaii. By far it’s the most colorful in my collection with its tropical scene of dolphins and other sea creatures swimming the ocean blue and “Hawaii” printed in large yellow letters.

The mug is also personalized with my name, in English and in Hawaiian (supposedly). Well, they say it’s the thought, right. I’ll probably have to keep it though. Who’d want a mug with my name on it. I mean Priscilla in Hawaiian is Pelekila, seriously?

Then there are the mugs I’ve received as gifts for donating to various causes I’ve been involved in over the years.

The Greenpeace mug is very tasteful with its lightblue whale tail and white dove but sadly I haven’t done enough lately to support the environmental organization. I look at that mug and get a big gulp of guilt trip. Better keep it though, to remind myself to stay involved.

I got my Wisconsin mug from a good friend. It has pine trees painted on it. She gave it to me because at the time I was into pine trees.

For a while I thought I wanted to collect all things pine. Little wooden pine trees and pinecone ornaments found their way into my house. But after a while I wasn’t pining anymore and the evergreen was gone forever.

I’ll probably have to keep that Wisconsin mug. You how it is when a friend, especially a good friend, gives you something - you can’t just throw it out.

That mug reminded me of these Smokey Bear mugs I gave to a friend a long time ago. They had pine trees,

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My Nestle’s Quick Farfel mug collection. too. When you poured hot beverages in them the trees slowly disappeared as if burning down, and then later when the mugs were empty the trees mysteriously “grew” back. Now those were some cool mugs. They were keeper mugs. I’m sure he still has them.

I really do like my Hike or Die in Death Valley mug with the smiling skeleton hiker. I bought it not because I’m an extreme hiker but because I like skeletons.

Most of my family has a bone to pick with me about the skeleton stuff I’ve been collecting for a while now.

But I don’t care. You should see my Day of the Dead papier-mâché Catrina figurines. They really are to die for.

I don’t know where I got my “Happy Birthday” mug. I think a flower arrangement came in it. If I was supposed to use it on my birthdays, I haven’t and don’t think I ever will. But if I give it to thrift store maybe someone else will use it on their birthday.

I have quite a few mugs advertising businesses. I guess business owners figure people like to watch other people drinking out of mugs and will see their name.

While mugs are still used for advertising, these days it’s popular to put your business name on a water bottle.

Come to think of it I’m starting to get quite a few of those, too.

I’m thinking most of my mugs will be sitting on the shelf awhile longer. Dusting them off, it hit me, like a shot of caffeine in the morning: There are sentimental sips to be had from each of them.

Sounds sappy but hey, we all know mugs are collected and given for much more than just holding coffee, aren’t they.

Now where’s that holiday mug of mine? I’m in the mood for a cup, I mean, a mug of good cheer.

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DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

POLK COUNTY - There will be a holiday potluck event at the home of Jay and Joyce Bergstrand on Monday, Dec. 12, at noon as part of the Polk County Genealogy Society’s annual Christmas celebration.

Please call 715-268-9523 for directions. Muriel Pfeifer, PCGS member, will present a program on Civil War genealogy research. - submitted ••• FREDERIC - The third-annual Frederic Community Live Nativity will be held Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17 and 18, beginning at 6 p.m. both days at the Community Pride Park next to the depot in downtown Frederic. The family event is free and will include refreshments, a warm fire and a trip back in time.

For further information contact Anita Baker at 715-327-4143 or Crosswalk Community Church at 715-327-8767. - submitted information ••• BALSAM LAKE -There will be no Polk County Legal Clinic during the month of December; however, it will be starting again in January and be held every third Monday. Watch the Leader for more details. - submitted

Victim of Lake Vadnais crash has local family connection VADNAIS HEIGHTS, Minn. - A 46-year-old man who died after his truck overturned into the icy waters of Lake Vadnais on Sunday night, Dec. 4, had family ties to this area.

Michael Lange was the brotherin-law of Lisa Maack and Gordon Lundeen, and the uncle of their son, Thor Lundeen, all of rural Frederic.

According to a spokesperson for the Ramsey County, Minn., Sheriff’s Department, Lange was trapped in the submerged truck for about 10 minutes until a deputy opened the door and cut his seat belt off. Lange had no pulse but first responders restored it before he was taken to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, where he was pronounced dead about an hour later.

Saturday’s snowfall could have played a factor in the accident, which remains under investigation.

- Gary King with information from twincities.com

4:30 p.m. Mondays Deadline for Leader copy

Spring election season starts December is nomination time for county and school boards

by Gregg Westigard Leader staff writer BURNETT/POLK COUNTIES – December is the time when people start filing for offices on the April 3 election ballot. All county board seats and at least one seat on each school board are up for election. Persons running for these offices as well as for some municipal offices must file nominating papers in December to get on the spring ballot. The nominating period started Thursday, Dec. 1, and ends Tuesday, Jan. 3.

All candidates must file a Campaign Registration Statement at the start of the process and before they start collecting nomination signatures. Candidates register with the election clerk for the office they are running for. Candidates need at least 20 signatures on their nomination papers to run for the county board or village and city councils.

Signatures are not needed to get on school board ballots.

All incumbents must register if they are seeking re-election. Incumbents who are retiring must file a Declaration of Noncandidacy by Friday, Dec. 23.

The spring election is Tuesday, April 3. If more than two people file for any open seat, a primary election is set for Tuesday, Feb. 21.

County boards Every county board seat is up for election.

County board terms are for two years with supervisors elected in the even-numbered years. Each county has adopted new district lines to adjust the districts to the new population numbers from the 2010 census.

County board candidates register with the county clerks.

School boards

School board terms are for three years with a third of the seats up for election each year. In addition, board members appointed to fill vacancies must run for the remainder of their term in the next election. Candidates file at the district administration office. Local school districts do not require nomination papers, so a place on the ballot is gained by registering.

These are the 2012 open seats on the 15 school districts serving Burnett and Polk counties. The incumbents in those seats are listed.

Burnett County Grantsburg (two seats) – Christine Erickson and Patty Bonneville.

Shell Lake (three seats) – Linda Nielsen, Jeri Bitney and Philip Holman.

Siren (three seats) – Dayton Daniels, Dave McGrane and Molly Bentley.

Spooner (two seats) – Philip Markgren and Christina Martin.

Webster (three seats – Charles Macke, Brenda Rachner and Wendy Larson.

Cumberland (two seats) – Don Hortstman and Jennifer Hyatt.

Polk County Amery ( two seats) – Darren Van Blaricom and Lynn Blomstrand.

Clayton (two seats) – Kurt Bussewitz and Jeff Lien.

Clear Lake (two seats) – Tom Aasumundrud and Mark Monson.

Frederic (2 seats) – Shari Matz and Troy Engen.

Luck (two seats) – Daryl Bazey and Amy Dueholm.

Osceola (one seat) – Mary Cotch.

St. Croix Falls (two seats) – Mona Schmidt and Brent McCurdy.

Turtle Lake (two seats) – Sally Gores and Linda Flottum.

Unity (two seats) – Sheryl Holmgren and

Kelly Bakke.

Municipal elections Half of the seats on area city and village councils are up for election each year. Cities and a few villages nominate their candidates using nomination papers in December.

Most villages nominate their candidates at caucuses in January, and those caucus dates and races will be covered at the end of December. For six municipalities, all in Polk County, the nomination process starts with candidates registering their candidacy with their municipal clerk. Candidates then need to gather at least 20 signatures before Jan. 3 to get on the April ballot.

Listed are the cities and villages where candidates will be nominated in December, the offices open and the incumbent office holders whose terms are up in April.

City of Amery: Mayor – Michael Karuschak. Alderpersons-Wards 1 and 2: Diane Taxdahl, Wards 3 and 4: Jack Rogers and Kay Erickson (two open seats), at large: Kristen Strohbusch.

City of St. Croix Falls. Mayor – Darrell Anderson. Alderpersons-Ward 1: Debra Kravig, Wards 2 and 3: Paul Kuhlman.

Villages elect three of their six trustees in 2012, but not their village presidents. The candidates are listed together for the open seats and run at large.

Village of Clear Lake – Lori Martin, Vern Engebretson, and Jerry Peterson.

Dresser – James Rochford Jr., Darron Nelson, and Kristi Scheet.

Village of Osceola – Rodney Turner, Mark Campbell, and Donald Stocker.

Turtle Lake – Ruth Morton, Ray Hall, & Ryan Braastad.

The Leader will monitor the filings and retirements during the coming months and list all nominees in early January.

Armed robber found guilty and mentally competent 2010 Amery grocery store incident may mean over 40 years in prison

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – Polk County jurors last week found 33-year-old Matthew O. Hoff Jr., Amery, guilty of felony armed robbery, after he filled a shopping cart full of food and items at an Amery grocery store and then left without paying, threatening an employee with a knife when asked to pay. He also was found guilty of other charges, including misdemeanor resisting arrest, second-degree reckless endangerment and bail jumping after he wrestled with a police officer who confronted him on the theft.

Hoff was also found mentally competent in the second phase of his trial the next day, after he claimed to be mentally incompetent, due to reasons of mental disease or defect.

The two phases of the trial took place on Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 29 and 30, in Polk County Circuit Court before Judge Eugene Harrington.

“The jury ruled in favor of us,” Polk County District Attorney Dan Steffen said.

“And they ruled against the NGI claim.”

With the guilty verdicts, Hoff now faces

the potential of over 40 years in prison, on top of over $100,000 in fines. Hoff will have a sentencing hearing on Jan. 11 before Judge Harrington.

The primary incidents he stood trial for took place on May 2, 2010, at Dick’s Fresh Matthew O. Hoff Jr. Market in Riverplace Mall in Amery, when Hoff piled over $500 worth of items in a grocery cart and rolled through the checkout counter without paying. When a store clerk confronted him, he pulled out a large knife, and charged at the clerk, while stating “You better just let me go.” The clerk got out of the way and let Hoff move out across the parking lot with the goods.

An Amery Police officer was called in and found Hoff a short distance away, trying to enter the back door of a local building with the groceries. When confronted, Hoff wrestled with one of the police officers, knocking him into the cart of food and fleeing into the

building. The officer chased the assailant and used his taser to get compliance.

Hoff was taken into custody and smelled of intoxicants. He was already under a signature bond at the time of the robbery for a pending charge of retail theft, with an order not to commit any more crimes.

The Amery grocery store incident led to a litany of charges, including felony armed robbery and several misdemeanor charges for theft, resisting arrest, second-degree reckless endangerment and three bail jumping charges. The jury deliberated for approximately three hours and found him guilty on all counts.

However, his legal troubles were not finished with those charges. Since first being in custody in the Polk County Jail on the initial armed robbery charge, he was also charged and found guilty of a felony battery against another prisoner for an incident that occurred in late July 2010. The sentencing for that charge will also apparently be added to his final sentencing on Jan. 11, 2012.

Hoff’s bail was revoked, and he will remain in custody at the Polk County Jail until that sentencing hearing. He does have a long history of run-ins with the law and has been convicted of everything from felony battery to several intoxicated driving charges and other issues along the way.

More area Lutheran church undergoing changes Clam Falls Lutheran Church will dissolve dual parish relationship with Zion Lutheran of Bone Lake

by Jean Koelz Leader staff writer POLK COUNTY – As the organizational structure of Lutheran associations continues to change on a national level, the trickle-down effect is having an impact on local faith communities. Most congregations have been tested in recent years regarding their interpretation of Scripture and how it squares up with the doctrinal decisions being voted on by the associations to which they belong. Because of that, it’s not uncommon today to see church splits and new affiliations being formed.

Recently, 128-year-old Clam Falls

Lutheran Church announced that it is dissolving its dual parish relationship with Zion Lutheran of Bone Lake in rural Luck. For many years, the two churches have shared a pastor and engaged in combined ministry. However, the leadership of Clam Falls Lutheran has decided to continue its membership in the American Association of Lutheran Churches, while Zion Lutheran appears to be pursuing a different course.

The AALC was formed by 12 congregations in 1987, just prior to the formation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in 1988, which was a merger between the Lutheran Church in America, the American Lutheran Church and the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches. The AALC worked for almost 20 years to restore fellowship with the other large Lutheran organization in America, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. That cooperative relationship was

formalized in 2007. As of 2009, the AALC had grown to 78 congregations and now has its own seminary.

In 2012, the AALC will celebrate its 25th anniversary, and its Clam Falls member wants to “move forward and become more visible in the community,” according to Rev. Gary Rokenbrodt, who will continue to serve as pastor. Clam Falls Lutheran Church is located at 3376 65th St. and meets Sundays at 9 a.m. for Sunday school, with a worship service following at 10:15 a.m. Neighbors are also invited to drop by for Neighbor 2 Neighbor Coffee Hour at 9 a.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month.

For more information contact Rokenbrodt at 715- 653-2630. - with submitted information

Clam Falls Lutheran Church. - Special photo

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

No increase in Grantsburg levy

Pool status depends on donations

by Gregg Westigard Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – No residents showed up for the Grantsburg Village 2012 budget hearing Monday night, Dec. 5.

After a short wait, the hearing was closed, and the village board proceeded to adopt the 2012 budgets for general government and three utilities by a unanimous 7-0 voice vote. The budgets are identical to those approved on Nov. 14.

The budget leaves the future of the swimming pool in the hands of the public with some unresolved questions. And the village employees did not take a cut in compensation as reported in the Leader. (See separate story.)

The property taxes village residents pay in December or January should be very

similar to last year’s bill. The property tax levy for the village remains exactly the same at $415,106. The assessed value of the village property went up slightly causing the mill rate to drop 2.87 percent.

Taxes on a property with an assessed value of $100,000 will be $2,044, down $8.91 from last year.

The total budget is $1,559,139, a 2.1-percent increase. Intergovernmental revenues, mostly state funds, provide 35 percent of the revenue, down $20,000 and 2 percent from last year. Property taxes bring in 26.6 percent of the revenue. The only increase in any revenue source is the addition of $92,000 in loans.

The only increase in expenses is for public works, up $58,000. Public protection is the largest expense, $402,109, 25.8 percent of the total. Second is public works, $395,431 or 25.4 percent, followed by debt service, $357,992 or 23.0 percent. General government is $188,912, 12.1 percent, and leisure and recreation is $160,284, 10.3 per-

cent. Much of the last expense is covered by fees at the campgrounds and donations. The village cut expenses in many ways including canceling cleaning service for the community center building for a reduction of $5,400. Employees will clean their own offices.

The swimming pool The pool will not open in 2012 without $35,000 in donations, according to the adopted budget. However, the details on that fundraising, including how soon the money needs to be raised, were still being discussed after the board meeting. The pool needs $12,000 in repairs before it opens. Those funds must be raised before the work is done. But an additional $25,000 in donation for operating funds must also be committed before the repairs are authorized. This might mean that $35,000 must be raised by March for the pool to be repaired and opened.

There was some informal talk about op-

tions including operating the pool for limited use with limited staffing, but no details were offered. The possibility of the school district playing more of a role in the pool costs have also been discussed but not addressed. There is a question of whether the pool could be licensed and opened in 2013 if it is closed in 2012. The council will address all these issues soon.

The pool will cost $61,000 to operate in 2012, according to figures in the budget.

That includes $16,000 in user fees, $10,000 from the village and $35,000 in donations.

Expenses include $21,000 in wages, $28,000 in operations including chemicals and utilities, and $12,000 in repairs. Even if the repairs are made for 2012 and no more are needed in the future, the figures show an ongoing operating loss of $33,000 after user fees are deducted. This is the long-term pool issue.

Grantsburg employee compensation not cut Village absorbs state-directed benefit reduction

by Gregg Westigard Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – Last week, the Leader reported that the Grantsburg Village employees were taking a reduction in compensation in response to the Wisconsin budget bill order that government employees at all levels pay half of their retirement fund contribution. That was incorrect. The village raised the pay of the

employees to cover the switch in benefits payments, resulting in no cut in compensation.

Over the years, many government employees chose to take compensation increases in the form of benefits rather than wages. That way neither the employer nor the employee paid the 7.65-percent FICA (Social Security and Medicare) payroll tax a wage increase would benefit. Government units, including village and schools, have in most cases been paying 100 percent of the payment to the state retirement fund. In 2011, that payment was 11.6 per-

cent of the gross salary.

Starting last August, employees were required by the state to pay half that amount or 5.8 percent out of their paycheck. The Grantsburg Village Board said that the retirement cost was already in the budget and raised the employee wages by 5.8 percent to cover the new payroll withholding.

For 2012, the village continued wages at the new level and granted a 2-percent wage increase as well. Thus the Grantsburg village employees are getting the same wage and benefit package they re-

ceived before the state budget bill went into effect. The only change is that part of the state retirement fund payment is channeled through the employee paycheck as a deduction.

The 2012 Grantsburg Village budget does contain about $25,000 less in total employee wage and benefit cuts, but that reduction is from some planned changes in staffing, not from lowering the pay and benefits of present employees.

Primary moved to August All fall election dates moved up

by Gregg Westigard Leader staff writer NORTHWEST WISCONSIN – The primary date for the November election has been moved to Aug. 14, 2012, the second Tuesday in August, a month earlier than the prior second Tuesday in September.

As a result, candidates for the fall election must complete the filing of their election papers by June 1, 2012, and can start that filing on April 15, 2012, a month and a half earlier than in the past.

One consequence of this is that counties will have less time to set the salaries of county officials, the county clerk, treasurer and register of deeds. All officers will be on the November ballot and the salaries for each year of their four-year terms, 2013 through 2017, must be approved by the county board before the start of the filing period. For Polk County that would mean approval at the March board meeting since the April meeting is after April 15, 2012.

The salaries of the three offices were formerly set along with the salary of the clerks of court, but staggered four-year terms make that impossible. The clerks of

court are halfway through their terms, and their salaries for 2013 and 2014 were set two years ago. The salaries set for the three offices could set a base figure for the first two years of the clerks of court elected in 2014.

The process of setting the new salaries has already started in Polk County. The personnel committee, which makes a salary recommendation to the county board, has had the topic on its agenda since its Nov. 4 meeting and has it on the agenda of its meeting this Thursday, Dec. 8. Polk County adopted the salaries for the 2011 -2014 terms at its March 2010 meeting.

District attorneys will also be elected this fall, but they are state employees and their salaries are set by the state and determined by the population of the counties. Sheriffs salaries are set by the counties, but their salaries are not equated with the salaries of the other four officials.

Prospective candidates for the state Senate and Assembly have had their timetables moved up also. The challengers and incumbents can start collecting signatures April 15 rather than the former June 1.

Two election seasons, spring and fall, are upon us.

Milltown approves budget, refutes burn claim

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer MILLTOWN – There was very little debate or even comment over the 2012 village of Milltown budget, which is pretty close to the 2011 budget, according to village President LuAnn White.

Many specific expenditures are changed, and the overall tax impact is slightly higher, due to equalized valuation changes.

“Our mill rate for 2012 is .024833262.

Last year it was .02383919, so I believe it is up approximately 10 cents per $1,000 from last year,” stated Milltown village clerk Joyce Stener after the meeting.

The public hearing on the budget, held prior to the Monday, Dec. 5, board meetThe Milltown Village Board approved their 2012 budget with little fanfare and literally no public comment at their meeting Monday, Dec. 5. ing, drew no comments or even attendees, and the final numbers were approved without change.

Overall, the village will spend approximately $632,000, up slightly from $629,000 for 2011. But the actual village tax levy remains essentially unchanged at $369,160.

Changes come from changes in intergovernmental transfers, debt services, library fund reductions and state-shared-tax reimbursements.

Milltown resident Jessee Mattocks raised concerns about possible trash burning at the village dump, which the village board addressed. – Photos by Greg Marsten

In other board business: • Claims or concerns by resident Jessee Mattocks, published in letters to the editor and to the village, about the village

being behind trash burning at the village dump site.

Mattocks wrote about a recent visit to the village dump where he reportedly saw burning couches, telephone poles, plastic and other items. It led Mattocks to call the Department of Natural Resources, who visited a short time later and took photos of the alleged burn.

“I’m a little concerned about it,” Mattocks said. “I don’t mean to rabble rouse, but it is illegal.”

However, Milltown Public Works Director Rick Fisher stated that he was also there when the DNR agent arrived, and in fact, addressed those concerns.

“I was with him when he took the pictures,” Fisher stated. “We got most of it out of there.”

White also addressed the issue, stating that they have had discussions with the DNR agent and others about the allegations, and that the issue has been taken care of and changes were made.

“We’re fine with the DNR, “ White said.

• Milltown Police Chief Andy Anderson outlined how there had been a recent rash of arrests in recent days, which he attributed to the season.

“Most crime seems to be from November to the first of the year,” he said.

“Hopefully we can prevent them ... it’s burglary season.”

Anderson warned residents to be even more vigilant about suspicious activities or possible break-ins and said they will have an officer on duty throughout the holidays.

• Anderson and village staff reminded people of the upcoming Santa Day this coming Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Milltown Community Center. Santa Claus will be in attendance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with door prizes for kids.

There will also be various prizes from the Milltown Community Club raffle drawings, which will award a Nintendo video game, a DVD player and a Kindle E-reader as top prizes.

Snacks will be served by the Jolly Milltown 4-H Club, as well as $5 gifts for kids to purchase. They will also take donations for Operation Christmas and ask that attendees donate a new, unwrapped item or toy, as well as bring food shelf donations.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

Balsam Lake board goes modern Trustee iPads, brush burning, park names, condemnation and much more addressed

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – The village of Balsam Lake Board of Trustees will all have iPads, after a long debate and difference of opinion at their meeting on Monday, Dec. 5.

In a 4-3 split, the board voted to purchase seven Apple iPads for exclusive board use, to both eliminate paper and to allow a better sharing of information.

But not everyone will use them, as at least two of the trustees and the village president not only voted against he purchase, but said they would probably never use the devices, the final cost of which is still be determined.

Village Trustee Josh Hallberg gave a demonstration to fellow board members on using an iPad computer tablet. The board voted 4-3 at their Monday, Dec. 5, meeting to purchase seven of the tablets for trustees to keep the paperwork down and to also have a “running record” of all village business, budgets, plans, proposals, communications and more. – Photos by Greg Marsten

New Balsam Lake Public Library Director Linda Heimstead was formally introduced to the board Monday, Dec. 5, for the first time since being promoted to the position last month.

“Personally, I won’t use one,” village President Guy Williams stated bluntly, also adding that he wanted to donate his tablet to the library for access, something strongly discouraged by village attorney Bruce Anderson, who also clarified several questions regarding open meeting issues, public access, and that anything done on the devices is, indeed, public village information.

“Government doesn’t always keep up with technology,” Anderson said, who added that all board members need equal access, and that they need be careful about what is on the machines, even if they don’t use them. Also that they are to be passed along to future trustees.

Williams also questioned whether the village was actually saving anything, as had been presented previously regarding paper costs, filing cost, even the delivery of village board member packets of meeting information, some of which is hand delivered by police officers to trustee homes.

“We need to start running this village like a business,” stated Trustee Josh Hallberg, who brought an example iPad for re-

luctant trustees to look over.

There were still several lingering issues never answered, such as responsibility for replacement, and even the final costs or specifically where the funds to buy them will be drawn from.

Regardless, the issue eventually came to a vote, and was approved, 4-3, with Hallberg, Jeff Reed, Caroline Rediske and Chris Sondrol voting in favor, and Trustees Eugene D’Agostino, Mike Voltz and Williams voting against.

In other board business: Police Chief Tom Thompson outlined winter parking rules, that parking regulations are plowing-based, if it is thought that 2 inches of snow were expected, or if snows over that amount, that there is no street parking until the street is plowed, but that once it is plowed, the route is again fine for parking.

“If 2 inches is expected, just don’t park on a village street until it’s cleared curb to curb,” Thompson said.

• Park names and future plans were discussed, as the parks committee is creating an inventory of village trails and park property, but they still need to finalize what to name some of them.

Rediske discussed what to name the proposed “pocket park” on the corner of CTH I and Main Street, suggesting either Cornerstone Park or Eagles Rest Park. The board seemed to endorse the Cornerstone proposal.

There was also discussion on playground equipment at Pine Park, noting that some of the existing equipment is very old.

“Face it, some of our playground equipment is antiquated,” she said.

They also outlined issues with vandalism at the skate park, security lighting and the possibility of more lighting at the boat landing and at the skateboard park.

Thompson suggested working with the parks committee to better evaluate lighting needs and the desired goals, to meet the needs of security, evening illumination and efficiency, but no action was taken.

• There was extensive discussion on

This is the Balsam Lake Winterfest promotional poster revealed this week. The Balsam Lake Chamber is hoping readers can help identify some of the people in the vintage photo.

how to deal with brush burning, with Anderson noting that the village is able to obtain a DNR burning permit for about $500, with annual renewals for less than $200.

“They strongly discourage it, but we can get one,” he said.

The issue of burning permits and whether to even continue the practice or go with a chipper to create a compost depository for residents was a hot topic,with general consensus that the alternative of random resident brush burning may quickly erase any savings for the village, if even one fire gets out of control.

The chipper/compost option “also has its own issues,” Anderson said, noting runoff, water quality and DNR site inspection, as well. He also said that the burning option is considered a solid-waste disposal site in the eyes of the state, and that it would need monitoring. “Be aware, there is a cost to [taxpayers], to provide this service,” he said.

The board moved to purchase the DNR burning permit and decided to have the village disposal site open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. weekdays, as well as the first Saturday and Sunday of the month. The site is open to residents only and does have a video security system. It is located on the south side of the village at the old village farm.

• Village employee and Balsam Lake Rod and Gun Club member Jim Duncan informed the board that the club is continuing their program of reclaiming, locating and marking official lake access sites, with a planned surveying of an approximately 30-foot-wide access at Pearson Point on Balsam Lake. There would be no cost to the village.

The club has been doing the access reclamation project at over two dozen lakes across the county in the last decade and has found some to have been “lost” to neighboring properties, unchecked development and the elements. The Pearson

Point location is not of that caliber, but the project is to make sure it is legally marked for access, either for a canoe or winter trail access, but is not a boat landing in the traditional sense.

Several residents raised a few concerns, mainly about parking and maintenance, rules of usage and erosion control, with the board endorsing the project.

• Anderson will move forward with efforts to either get zoning compliance or seek condemnation for an abandoned and collapsing home at 411 Main St. After some clarification with the board, it was decided to have Anderson seek estimates on building removal.

• The board set a village caucus date for the April 3 board election. They set a date of Monday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. at the fire hall.

Trustees Rediske, Sondrol and Reed are up for re-election.

• Chamber of Commerce President Chris Nelson outlined plans for the Winterfest celebrations. This year’s celebration occurs over the weekend of Feb. 4-5 with events that include truck drag races on the ice, possible vintage snowmobile racing, helicopter rides over the lake, a pond hockey tourney in front of Paradise Landing, a polar plunge, ice softball tournament and a medallion hunt. Times and event locations will be clarified later.

Nelson also presented the poster of the events, which uses a vintage winter photo from the lake with as-of-yet-unidentified people.

He said the chamber is also sponsoring a holiday lighting contest for residents.

Nelson also gave a hint to an offer by Amery-based Larry Carlson, who has offered to assist with the village plans for a new bridge/culvert under CTH I into the millpond. He has offered to customize the labor for a stone lining for the entry, with the project committee to decide on the final surface, wording and possibly even a lake map for the pond entry.

Carlson also did work at the DD Kennedy Dam project, and the offer was heartily endorsed by trustees. More details will be offered at a later date, as the project is solidified.

• Peter Ward of Cabin Watch Security offered to assist the village on any future security needs or specific surveillance projects. The CWS business is based on the lake and has become a true local success story. He will work with the village crew and police chief for review of any needs, such as at Pine Park or at the skatepark.

• It was also revealed that the village was recently granted a FEMA reimbursement from summer 2010 storm damage, totaling over $9,000. Public works Director Darrel Ince credited village clerk Lori Duncan for pursuing the grant.

“She really worked hard to get this,” Ince said, while suggesting the village designate the money for a specific project, instead of just putting it in the general fund. The board agreed and will clarify the expenditure at a later date.

• New Balsam Lake Public Library Director Linda Heimstead was formally introduced and gave her first report since being promoted last month.

West Denmark cookie walk

It was an impressive display of caloric wonders at the start of the annual cookie walk at the West Denmark Church parish hall. Alaura Lemieux (right) assisted with the display as others “grazed” for what to buy. – Photo by Greg Marsten

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

A healthier future

Grant gives Luck students a leg up on physical fitness and nutrition

by Mary Stirrat Leader staff writer LUCK – A new era of improved physical fitness and healthier eating habits has dawned at Luck Schools, thanks to a grant that will provide funding for the development and implementation of new programs.

The Carol M. White Physical Education Program grant, through the U.S. Department of Education, was awarded to New Paradigm Partners, a five-school consortium of which Luck is a part. Other participating districts are Birchwood, New Auburn, Northwood and Shell Lake.

Over the next three years, New Paradigm Partners will receive a total of $948,000 to purchase physical fitness equipment, develop healthy nutrition options and patterns and, in general, help students make progress toward meeting state standards in physical education.

New Paradigm Partners is one of 76 educational agencies and community-based organizations to be awarded the grant this year. Each of the five schools will develop and implement its own program, with a total of $355,000 to use the first year, $327,000 the second year and $266,000 the final year.

Luck’s physical education teacher Megan Challoner is the grant coordinator for all five schools. Co-coordinators for Luck School are Renee Gavinski, family and consumer teacher, and Don Kendzior, special education teacher.

Community involvement is a key requirement of the grant, and Monday evening, Dec. 5, the district brought together potential “wellness partners” to acquaint them with the grant’s goals and start a process of brainstorming ideas to encourage better health habits.

Challoner, Gavinski and district Administrator Rick Palmer met with these potential partners to outline the goals of the grant and how the community can help.

Luck gym teacher Rick Giller, left, and school board member Jake Jensen discuss ways to encourage healthier habits among students. They were among about 20 community members gathered at Oakwood Inn Monday night, Dec. 5, to hear about a physical fitness and nutrition grant the school received. – Photos by Mary Stirrat

Students at Luck are wearing pedometers to track the number of steps they take as part of an effort to improve physical fitness.

The four overarching goals are to assess weaknesses in the health and physical education program at Luck, to improve the daily physical activity of students, to collaborate with the food service program to provide healthier selections and to increase the professional development opportunities for health and physical education teachers at the school.

Each year of the three-year grant will focus on a different aspect of health and

wellness. The first year, said Challoner, will focus on cardiovascular health and endurance, with grant monies used to purchase treadmills, ellipticals and other equipment.

Muscular strength and endurance will be the focus for the second year, with the purchase of skis, weights and possibly the development of a climbing wall.

In the third year, the grant will seek to promote speed and agility.

Throughout all three years, said Challoner, students will be learning how to eat in a more healthy way, while the grant allows the school to look at more sustainable options for the food service program.

Already, said Challoner, the school has implemented new physical education activities. A mileage club has been established for students to run, one-quarter of a mile at a time, to win incentives. Some students, she noted, have already run 10 miles.

In the past three months, according to Challoner, the school has racked up 4,003 miles in the program.

Another grant-inspired activity that has been started is the requirement that each student wear a pedometer for several days to track physical activity. Students in kindergarten through sixth grade will wear it for four days, while students in grades seven through 12 will wear it for 10 days.

“They’re really excited about these

Luck sophomore Camille Marsten enjoys the healthy snacks available during a planning meeting on a grant the school received to promote physical fitness and good nutrition.

Marsten is one of four high school students involved in the grant as a wellness partner. things,” said Challoner about the students.

Most importantly, said Challoner, the students will take the new habits and mindset with them into adulthood, helping them live healthier lives.

The grant requires in-kind match, particularly in the form of volunteer time.

Gavinski, Challoner and Palmer asked the assembled community members to consider ways they could help and to think about ideas that could help promote health and wellness.

Among the ideas discussed were a larger school garden, working with the FFA alumni to produce meats and vegetables, and winter gardening. Organizing a run, walk or some other physical activity was also part of the discussion.

Gavinski, Kendzior and Challoner will be reviewing the ideas and comments resulting from Monday’s meeting. These will be used to come up with plans that will hopefully foster better physical health in the students and community.

Tina Ashton, left, and Dr. Onnie Thatcher discuss ideas for a school garden to provide healthy nutrition for students.

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Luck physical education teacher Megan Challoner, left, coordinates the Carol M. White Physical Education Program grant that was awarded to a five school consortium of which Luck is a partner. At right is Renee Gavinski, who co-coordinates the grant at Luck with Don Kendzior.

The two are shown with Luck School District Administrator Rick Palmer.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

Sex offender to be released Paul T. Armstrong to reside north of Amery

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – A convicted sex offender will be released into Polk County later this month, after serving two years of his three-year sentence.

Paul T. Armstrong, 22, was convicted of felony second-degree sexual assault of a child in Dec. 2009, after having sexual contact with a child under age 16 on two separate occasions during the summer of 2008. According to Polk County Sheriff Peter Johnson, the assault incidents oc-

curred while Armstrong was residing at a local foster home, shared with the child.

In spite of his release from prison, Armstrong will be on supervised probation by the Wisconsin Department of CorrecPaul T. Armstrong tions for the next seven years. He will also undergo counseling and cannot possess a firearms ever again.

Armstrong will be released from prison

on Dec. 27 and will be under constant electronic monitoring and living at the Apple River Motor Inn, north of Amery.

According to Johnson, Armstrong has few true ties to the area, but was living in Polk County at the time of this conviction and will reside here initially because of

that fact.

More information on the sex offender registry program is available at www.widocoffenders.org.

Man charged with five counts of sexual assault

by Sherill Summer Leader staff writer SIREN - John E. Quist, 69, Siren, pleaded not guilty to five sexual assault charges in the Burnett County courtroom on Wednesday, Nov. 30. The alleged assaults involve three different victims between 1992 and 2009, all occurring in the Town of Meenon.

Quist is charged with repeated sexual assault of child, sexual assault of child under 13 and three counts of second-degree sexual assault. The maximum sen-

John E. Quist

tences for the charges range from a $100,000 fine and/or a 40year prison sentence to a $10,000 fine and/or a 10year prison sentence.

The next scheduled court appearance is Monday, March 5, 2012.

Wisconsin students start microlending organization

by Shamane Mills Wisconsin Public Radio MADISON - Microloans are common in developing countries to help the poor start a business. A Wisconsin microlending organization started by UW students operates on the same principle.

Twenty-year-old Alex Rosenthal is executive director of what’s called the Madison Fund, a nonprofit that offers small loans, ranging from $500 to $5,000, “So just a small amount of money can really go a long way in helping somebody create a Web site for an online business or buy the first few appliances needed to start a business or something that can be effective in the long run.”

The Madison Fund focuses on small businesses and entrepreneurs, but they also offer energy-efficiency loans and citizenship loans. In fact, helping someone become a U.S. citizen was their first loan, “We did some market research and discovered there are a lot of permanent residents who are wanting to apply for naturalization and in many cases can’t afford it. So, we found a man who had application on his desk ready to go and just couldn’t afford application fee.”

Rosenthal says the Madison Fund has been fully operational since June. So far the nonprofit has raised $2,500 from private donations.

550762 15-17L 5-6a

Christmas Open House

To all those who’ve passed by our way, we extend an invitation to our open house.

Friday, December 9 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

At our seven local offices (A&H will be 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.)

Usually, the first impression your business is able to make is through the printed materials you distribute. That’s why it’s important to do business with a quality printer. That’s why more businesses trust us to meet all their printing needs.

Refreshments Will Be Served At All Locations.

Stop In & Pick Up Your 2012 Calendar & Join Us For Some Holiday Cheer!

303 N.Wis. Ave. Frederic, Wis.

715-327-4236

24154 State Rd. 35N Siren, Wis.

715 -349-2560

107 N. Washington St. Downtown St. Croix Falls, Wis.

715-483-9008

11 West 5th Ave. Shell Lake, Wis.

715 -468-2314

Frederic Grantsburg Siren 715-327-5660 715-463-5301 715-349-2440 Webster Cushing A&H Pine City, MN 715-866-4251 715-648-5217 715-259-7748 320-629-6777

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INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION

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All 4 Locations

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

COMMUNITY

VIEWPOINTS

SEND YOUR VIEWS AND FEEDBACK TO: INTER-COUNTY LEADER, BOX 490, FREDERIC, WI 54837 OR E-MAIL the-leader@centurytel.net • Area news at a glance •

• Joe Heller •

SUV enters Lake Superior, fatal for Duluth woman

SUPERIOR - The Superior Police Department responded to a call at approximately 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, after a jogger reported seeing a car in the water at the end of 21st Street in Billings Park. The Superior Fire Department, Gold Cross and a dive team arrived on the scene to find a mostly submerged Ford Excursion in the water just out from the boat landing. The vehicle, bearing North Dakota license plates, appeared to have driven off the end of North 21st Street at a high rate of speed and rolled down the hillside, uprooting trees before coming to rest in the icy water below. A female was found seat belted into the driver’s seat. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Initially authorities assumed the vehicle had driven onto the ice via the boat landing, but upon arrival, it had become clear that wasn’t the case. The woman was identified Tuesday as 24-year-old Ashley Lynn Ganyo of Duluth. Police say Ganyo recently graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth and was still living in the Duluth area. A preliminary autopsy report finds Ganyo drowned. Police say alcohol, weather and speed may have contributed to the crash, but toxicology reports are not expected for several weeks..

- Superior Telegram

Federal board OKs rail deal; rehab can move ahead

CAMERON – A long-awaited decision from federal authorities has given an apparent go-ahead for railroad rehabilitation in the area. The decision came Nov. 10 from the federal Surface Transportation Board. Local officials had been waiting for an STB decision to complete the purchase of railroad tracks from Cameron to Rice Lake and from Cameron to Almena. The decision was necessary before rehabilitation of the tracks could begin. Grant money has been secured for the rehabilitation, but there have been continued delays pending the STB decision. Rehabilitating the tracks from Cameron to Rice Lake and from Cameron to Barron is expected to cost about $6.5 million. Railroad rehabilitation in this area has been particularly important lately because of the newly emerging frac sand industry. Frac sand is being mined from a privately owned open pit in the Barron County Town of Arland and trucked via Hwy. P to Hwy. 8 to Hwy. 53 to New Auburn for shipment by rail. There’s been discussion of a frac sand processing plant in Almena, but the railroad tracks to that community are in disrepair. With the decision, the Wisconsin West Rail Transit Authority will set a meeting and decide what to do next. - Rice Lake Chronotype

New start location for Birkebeiner?

• Web poll results •

Last week’s question

CABLE - The American Birkebeiner Foundation plans to create a permanent new start area for the Birkie and Kortelopet ski races and a new trailhead to access the Birkie Trail three miles south of Cable, east of Hwy. 63 at the end of East Leonard School Road.

Currently, the races start at the Cable Union Airport near Telemark Lodge. If all goes as planned, the new start area and trailhead would be constructed next year and would be used for the first time for the 40th-annual Birkebeiner in February 2013. The 23-kilometer Kortelopet will continue to finish at Telemark stadium, and the Birkie Classic, 55 kilometers, and Birkie Skate, 50 kilometers, races will continue to finish in downtown Hayward. “The new start area eliminates the crossing of private lands and assures permanent trail access for the event and trail recreation,” said Birkebeiner Executive Director Ned Zuelsdorff. In the past seven years, the Birkie events have grown by 3,500 skiers, Zuelsdorff noted. One reason for that is, “We have a very high-quality race.”

Currently, the Birkie is the fourth largest ski race in the world, and “I’d like to think we continue to strive to make it the best race in the world.” The Birkie and Kortelopet reached the 9,000 skier cap on Nov. 21. Zuelsdsorff said the total cost of the project to change the starting point, including acquiring the land, constructing the start area and connector trails and a new storage building “will be less than $250,000.” - Sawyer County Record

Man killed crossing highway

PINE CITY, Minn. - A Pine City man was killed Saturday night, Dec. 3, when he was hit while crossing a state highway. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, 63-year-old Michael Giguere was crossing Hwy. 48 in Pine County when he was struck by a vehicle traveling eastbound, a 2004 Pontiac Grand Am driven by Nichole Sikkink, 24, of Brook Park, Minn. Sikkink was not injured. - redrockonair.com

Judge retires

To take part in our poll, go to theleader.net and scroll down to the lower left part of the screen • See front page for this week’s question

• Where to write • President Barack Obama 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 www.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 202-225-3365 U.S. Sen. Ryan Paul 1233 Longworth House Officce Building Washington, D.C. 20510 202-225-3031

T H E

Rep. Erik Severson (28th District) Room 6 North State Capitol Madison, WI 53708 608-267-2365 • 888-529-0028 FAX: 608-282-3628 rep.Severson@legis.state.wi.us Rep. Roger RIvard (75th District) State Capitol Room 307 North P.O. Box 8952, Madison, WI 608-266-2519 • 888-534-0075 rep.rivard@legis.wi.gov U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson 2 Russell Courtyard Washington, D.C. 20510 202-224-5323

Sen. Robert Jauch (25th District) Room 415 South, State Capitol P.O. Box 7882, Madison, WI 53707 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

BARRON - Barron Municipal Court Judge David Cusick has been on the job for the past 18 years and served a six-year stint prior to that before temporarily resigning to run for circuit court judge in 1988. He recently confirmed that he will not run again for the municipal position, and his judicial resignation will take place when his term ends on April 30, 2012. Cusick is an attorney who previously practiced law in Barron with Gerald Liden and Mark Dobberful before practicing law on his own. He retired from that practice earlier this year. His wife, Nancy, recently retired as director of nursing at Luther Midelfort Northland, where she had worked from 1972 until May of 2010. While they are both looking forward to enjoying retirement together, Cusick said he holds fond memories of his judicial and legal career. In summing up his municipal career, Cusick said much of what he does is try to balance fairness and an understanding with financial issues, adding there is a payment plan offered for those who have fines, but are immediately unable to pay in full. And some people simply don’t respond to citations he said. “They won’t pay their fines. They don’t hide out. So when there’s a warrant for their arrest, clearly we know where to find them. One time, in a bowling alley, there’s this guy standing there staring at me. I know we issued a warrant on him. It’s a small place really.” - Barron News-Shield

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Leader encourages readers to submit letters to the editor. All letters may be edited for length, clarity, grammatical accuracy and stylistic consistency. Letters more than 400 words in length may be returned to the writer for editing. Submitted letters should include the writer’s full name, address, daytime phone number and e-mail address (if available). E-mailed letters are preferred. Letters may be sent to the-leader@centurytel.net or mailed to Inter-County Leader, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837.

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DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

• Letters to the editor • Oops!

I hope you enjoyed last week’s guest column about unpacking the catalog box and finding all the treasures within.

In a moment of mental abstraction, I put the wrong name on it. It was written by Jean Bunker Schmidt of Siren and reprinted in the Yarns of Yesteryear in The Country Today, Eau Claire, in the Anthology of the Best of Yarns, and in the Siren Senior Citizens monthly newsletter in Siren. Many readers could identify with it.

Ruth Bunker Christiansen of Frederic and Jean Bunker Schmidt of Siren were sisters and both had been awarded their prize jade rings for writing. They often wrote on the same subjects, but indeed it was Jean Bunker Schmidt who wrote on the catalog box.

Bernice Abrahamzon Lewis

Wait for the next regular election I just read in the financial news that our national debt is an astonishing $15.11 trillion. It is the highest ever since World War II. What do you do when you are deep in debt and nearing bankruptcy?

You do what some states in the union are doing. They are cutting spending in an attempt to balance their budgets. The federal government doesn’t seem to be able to understand that concept. They just keep piling on more debt every day.

Gov. Scott Walker was elected by the people of Wisconsin to cut spending and balance the state budget. He has done exactly that without raising taxes.

Now you find ads in the local newspapers announcing a recall election to get Walker out of office because they don’t like the fact that he has cut spending.

Their ads read, “Cut, cut that is all you do.” And then they ask you to sign a petition for his recall. It seems this group is on the same level as the federal government.

They don’t want any cuts and they want things to continue down the same path as before.

I would ask these people, “How do you balance a budget without cutting spending?”

Sometimes it requires a lot of cutting and sometimes it hurts to do it. But it needs to be done on the state level and the federal level if this country is going to survive.

If you don’t like the job that Walker is doing, vote him out of office when the next election comes about.

This recall election will cost the people of Wisconsin dearly. It is money that the state cannot afford, just as the recall of

Sheila Harsdorf did. Think twice before you sign a petition to recall Walker. We have a regular election process to take care of candidates we don’t like.

Rose Swanson Danbury

Pay for it yourselves Recall, recall! As most people can recall, there was a general election. Maybe if the people in charge of the recall, and others, had worked as hard before the election as they are now, the outcome might have been different.

I still stand by my previous letter: “Let the people who signed the petition pay for it.”

As an independent voter and taxpayer, I, and others, have paid for one extra election we did not want or need.

Wisconsin counties, towns and cities are looking for ways to cut their budgets.

Maybe when the people who want a recall (signed petition) pay for it themselves, the rest of us won’t be burdened with the extra cost.

Ronald Potvin Siren

Santa Last Saturday I dropped in at the library and who should be there?

Santa.

There were no children around, and it seemed like a lark to sit next to him. Those twinkling eyes, those grandfatherly white whiskers hinting of wisdom and patience, the bells, the candy canes, the timelessness of it all!

I hadn’t sat down with Santa for many years, and this year it seemed like it would be fun to spend some time with him. We could catch up on all the years we haven’t talked. I sat down, engaged his eyes, and he asked the perennial question “Have you been a good girl?” Right away I said, “Yes.” What do you say to someone that will be bringing you gifts, while you’re sleeping, in the very near future? He looked at me quizzically and I knew that he knew I wasn’t entirely truthful.

What is it about Santa that impels us to consider our honesty? I have an idea.

When I was in kindergarten, I walked to my one-room school about a mile away.

Around Christmastime, I surreptitiously kept my eye on a nearby hill knowing that Santa must be on the other side, watching me to see if I was being a good girl. Of course I had to sneak those looks so I wouldn’t give it away that I’m watching Santa watching me. You know the song “He sees you when you’re sleeping, he

knows when you’re awake, he knows if you’ve been good or bad, so, be good for goodness sake. You better watch out!”

I guess I knew I wasn’t always the “good girl” I needed to be for Santa to bring me the toys or new clothes on Christmas Eve. Those of you who know me, suspect that I probably have a good heart, but there also lives an impish spirit inside. Split personality? I think not, the good heart is simply impish. I am so thankful the imp never left me.

But back to Santa’s question this year. I could make a list of the “good” things I did this year but, honestly, I can’t think of a bad thing I did. Did I just forget, is it Alzheimer’s already?

But why did I think, when Santa asked, that I hadn’t been a “good girl”? I guess it has to do with my age. We always seem to easily remember the hurtful things we did. During my preceding 70 years, there have been numerous times when I was not honest, kind, generous, a good listener, a faithful friend or a good mother.

Now that Santa has given me this opportunity to consider my life, I thank him for his question. I know that I have lived a life, full of life, good and bad. I have learned a lot from it all, and believe that this year I have been a pretty good girl. I recommend to each one of you to visit Santa while he is still on tour in this area.

See you soon, Santa Wilma Gray Luck

Inhumane tactics After listening to and reading several news reports that again condemn the United States military for using “unfair” tactics in the wars currently being fought in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya, I thought it was time someone spoke up in support of our troops.

Let’s talk about the Taliban’s main weapon, improvised explosive devices.

What is an IED? An IED originally was a homemade bomb constructed and deployed in ways other than conventional military action.

Antipersonnel IEDs typically contain shrapnel-generating objects such as nails or ball bearings. The Afghan Taliban fighters have now developed a new generation IED that is so powerful they no longer use shrapnel-generating objects as they are able to inflict significant damage without the shrapnel. The Afghan Taliban worked with Pakistan to develop these new bombs, and they are now mass-produced in Pakistan. The production of IEDs is now deemed an industry in Pakistan.

According to the defense.gov Web site, there have been 6,113 U.S. military deaths and 44,746 U. S. military personnel wounded in action in Operation Iraqi

Freedom, Operation New Dawn and Operation Enduring Freedom. According to a report by Homeland Security Market Research, the number of IEDs used in Afghanistan has increased 400 percent since 2007, the number of troops killed by them increased by 400 percent and the number of troops wounded by 700 percent.

Now this may just seem like a lot of numbers to you, until you get the call that your son, daughter, grandson, husband or friend was one wounded or killed by one of these devices. It happened to us, our grandson’s humvee hit an IED. He was fortunate, he survived and still has all his body parts. He’s had 15 surgeries to repair his feet and still faces more.

Why aren’t there people protesting the inhumane tactics being utilized by the Taliban? Does it make sense to you that we continue to send billions of dollars to Pakistan? Why are we still in Iraq and Afghanistan? Do our leaders really think we are going to change a culture that hates everything we stand for?

It’s time we take a stand and make Congress and our president do something besides spend money foolishly. Why aren’t we protesting, marching in the streets, writing letters, calling our elected officials? I’m proud to be an American, and I’m proud of my children and grandchildren who have served our country, but I’m not proud of us being willing to continue sacrificing them year after long year without any end in sight!

Let’s bring out men and women home now and stop financing these terrorist countries now. Let’s worry about educating our own people, encouraging new businesses to provide jobs for our own people and get our country back on the road to prosperity!

Sharon Kelly St. Croix Falls

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Take the right documents with you to the DMV for voter ID STATEWIDE - The state Legislature recently passed a law that requires people to present an acceptable photo ID when voting. Following is some information to help those who need to obtain a Wisconsin ID card for voting purposes better prepare for a visit to the DMV. If you don’t have photo ID for voting, DMV can issue a photo ID free of charge if you will be at least 18 years of age on the date of the next election and request an ID card for the purpose of voting.

A free ID card is not available if you: • Currently have a valid, unexpired driver’s license • Will not be at least 18 years of age on the date of the next election • Already have a Wisconsin ID card that is not eligible for renewal (you may renew your ID card up to one year prior to its expiration date) • Are not eligible to vote in Wisconsin When applying, it will be necessary to provide your Social Security number and one document from each category below.

Proof of name and date of birth: • Certified U.S. birth certificate (not a copy) • Valid U.S. passport • Certificate of Naturalization

• Tribal ID card

Proof of identity: • Social Security card • Certified copy of a marriage certificate or judgment of divorce • A driver’s license or ID card from another state (this must be surrendered to get a Wisconsin driver’s license or ID card) Proof of Wisconsin residency (Documents listed below must include your name and current Wisconsin residence street address): • Paycheck or stub or earning statement with your name and Wisconsin address, and your employer’s name and address, issued within the last 90 days. Your employer’s telephone number may be required for verification.

• A bill for water, gas, electricity, landline telephone, cable or cell phone service issued within the last 90 days. Electronic copies are acceptable.

• An account statement from a Wisconsin bank/financial institution issued within the last 90 days. Electronic copies are acceptable.

• Certified school record or transcript that identifies you by name, shows your

current address and is issued within the last 90 days for the most recent school period.

• Mortgage documents for a residential property located in Wisconsin.

• Community based/assisted living residential contracts.

• Your current valid homeowner, renter or motor vehicle insurance policy dated within one year of application.

• A letter from a homeless shelter.

Proof of U.S. citizenship, legal permanent resident, conditional resident or temporary visitor status: • U.S. state or local government-issued certificate of birth (certified copy - birth registration and hospital certificates are not acceptable).

• Valid U.S. passport • U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Certificate of Citizenship

The Government Accountability Board notes that an unexpired Wisconsin driver’s license is the most common acceptable photo ID for voting. An expired Wisconsin driver’s license or ID is acceptable too as long as it expired within two years after the most recent general election. In other words, if a Wisconsin ID or driver’s license expired in December 2010, it can still be used for voting purposes in the November 2012 general election.

The most common documents are listed above. For a complete list of acceptable documents and more information on how to get a Wisconsin ID card, visit the Wisconsin DMV online at www.wisconsindmv.gov.

For more information on voting in Wisconsin, visit the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board online at www.gab.wi.gov. - from the WGAB

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PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Newest assisted living facility offers rural comforts

by Sherill Summer Leader staff writer WEBSTER - On one corner of the intersection is a farm with a red barn. Across the road are open fields bordered by woods. A lake is nearby, but the town is several miles away.

If this sounds like typical Burnett County; it is. What is not so typical about this intersection, CTH T and CTH C in the Town of Jackson, is this is where the county’s newest assist living facility is located.

Opened in October, Countryside Acres is an eight-room community-based residential facility, run by a mother and daughter team, Terri Rossow and Sara Stadler. The facility is state licensed, has a nurse and social worker on staff and can accept the frail elderly, handicapped and residents with traumatic brain injury.

Countryside Acres also offers hospice care and serves patients of NorthernBridges, a long-term care organization serving Northwest Wisconsin. Three meals a day, housekeeping services, activities and two spacious common rooms are all included.

In general, assisted living facilities are for people who need help with the day-to-

day living, but do not require the more advanced care found in nursing homes. By far, most Wisconsin residents of assisted living facilities live in community-based residential facilities. According to Wiscon-

sin’s department of health services, there is room for over 25,000 residents in the state’s CBRF facilities.

As can be expected, most of the residents of CBRFs in Wisconsin are in the

more populated areas of the state. According to the department of health Web site, updated last month, Countryside Acres is one of only two CBRF facilities in Burnett County. Together they can house 16 residents. To put this in perspective, Barron County, which includes Rice Lake, has 15 CBRF facilities that can house 261 residents. Polk County has seven facilities that can house 105 residents.

One reason why the community-based assisted living facilities are so popular in Wisconsin is that each facility reflects the larger community. The rural setting of Countryside Acres is fairly typical of Burnett County in that the 40-plus acre property is lakeshore. The July storm hit this area of the county very hard, but once the backwoods portion of the property is cleaned up, there is the potential of a trail to Crooked Lake. Two dogs and an assortment of fish already live on-site, and there are plans to add chickens and a miniature donkey as well.

In short, Countryside Acres is assisted living in the countryside. For more information about countryside Acres, call 715866-4411.

Countryside Acres is a new assisted living facility located at the Intersection of CTHs C and T in the Town of Jackson. The eightroom facility can accept the frail elderly, handicapped and resident with traumatic brain injuries. - Photos by Sherill Summer

Former Gov. Tommy Thompson announces Senate bid

by Churck Quirmbach Wisconsin Public Radio WAUKESHA - Former Gov. Tommy Thompson is trying to fend off criticism from the left and right as he jumps into the race for U.S. Senate. Thompson’s campaign kicked off Thursday night, Dec. 1, in Waukesha.

Lively music warmed up the crowd at Thompson’s rally. It was mainly an older crowd with plenty of Thompson’s former campaign donors, cabinet secretaries and political aides from his days as governor.

Thompson bragged about his accomplishments at the state Capitol, but says he wants to go to the U.S. Capitol to look ahead.

Thompson first has to get by at least two other conservative Republican contenders

for the Senate seat being vacated by Democrat Herb Kohl. But Thompson says he’s the true conservative.

Democrats have started to target Thompson, including by asking for his latest financial disclosure form. Thompson admits he’s made money in the private sector since his days in the Bush cabinet.

State Democratic Party Chairman Mike Tate also says Thompson has been flipflopping on some big issues, criticizing the 2009 stimulus bill, but holding Thursday’s rally at a company that got stimulus funds.

Thompson’s explanation: He didn’t know the Waukesha company got stimulus money, but says he’d rather it go to a Wisconsin firm than somewhere else.

Soybeans in Burnett and Polk counties took a hit this year Gov. Walker Requests Federal Disaster Assistance MADISON - Gov. Scott Walker has asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to designate four Wisconsin counties as disaster areas because of ginseng and soybean crop losses caused in part by cold, wet weather in September.

The governor asked for two separate declarations – one covering Lincoln and Marathon counties, and the other covering Burnett and Polk counties. If USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack declares the disaster areas, farmers there and in adjacent counties would be eligible to receive lowinterest loans to help them recover from

the losses.

In a letter to Vilsack, Walker noted that above-normal rainfall in August and September, combined with cold temperatures in September, hampered the ginseng harvest in Lincoln and Marathon counties.

The delayed harvest resulted in root rot; the root is the part of the ginseng plant that is harvested for use. Ginseng crop losses ranged as high as 75 percent in the counties.

Walker’s letter regarding Burnett and Polk counties cited wet spring conditions that delayed soybean planting two to three weeks. Then a killing frost hit in mid-September, ending the growing season prematurely. As much as 36 percent of the soybean crop was lost. - from the office of Gov. Walker

Frederic honors choir announced Members of the Frederic High School honors choir took time out during practice for a photo recently at the high school. The 2011 honors choir includes back row (L to R): Ian Lexen, Jaryd Braden, Autumn Schmidt, Megan Amundson, Bradley Knauber, Erik Stoner and Zach Williamson. Front row: Bryce Williamson, Ben Kurkowski, Danielle Swanson, Lauren Domagala, Leah Engebretson, Kali Otte, Angel Henderson and Allison Martin. Not pictured, Emily Byerly and April Halverson.

– Photo by Marty Seeger

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

WINTER SPORTS INTER! COUNTY LEADER • INTER! COUNTY LEADER • INTER! COUNTY LEADER

F R E D E R I C • G R A N T S B U R G • L U C K • S T. C R O I X F A L L S • S I R E N • U N I T Y • W E B S T E R BASKETBALL • GYMNASTICS • HOCKEY • WRESTLING

Tigers fend off Luck in key conference battle

Siren drops Unity, Grantsburg rolls over Frederic

Extra Points

Webster 30, Luck 28

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer LUCK – Whether it was stingy defense or an off night offensively for both the Webster and Luck boys basketball teams, it sure made for an interesting game on Tuesday, Dec. 6. The Tigers managed to hold onto a close win over the Cardinals, in a game that came down to a last-second 3-pointer by Luck, that rimmed out as the final buzzer sounded. Had the ball gone in, the Cards would have prevailed in a one-point victory, yet Webster came away with their first conference win of the season.

Neither team could get shots to fall in the first half, and Webster held a 5-0 edge for much of the first quarter, but a long two-point bucket by Luck’s Karsten Petersen gave the Cardinals a one-point lead after the first quarter. The Cardinals led by as much as six points in the second quarter, and maintained a four-point halftime lead.

The game remained close late into the third quarter, but the Tigers caught a break when sophomore Jake Sargent came off the bench for the second time in the game, and sunk a 3-pointer. Then Webster’s Cody Isaacson got a steal and a twopoint bucket before the buzzer ended the third quarter, and the Tigers held a 24-19 lead.

Webster’s Josh Baer, Nathan Puttbrese and the rest of the Tigers defense put pressure on the Cardinals during a win Tuesday, Dec. 6. – Photos by Marty Seeger unless otherwise noted It was a one-point game that favored Webster throughout much of the fourth quarter, until Luck tied it up at 28 with a free throw by Jesse Rennicke with 1:33 to go. Webster’s final bucket came later on an inbound pass to Nathan Puttbrese, with 12 seconds remaining, and the Tigers were able to keep Luck from tying, or sinking the game-winning 3-pointer.

Siren 58, Unity 46 BALSAM LAKE – West Lakeland Conference boys basketball teams are still working out the kinks early this season, as Siren and Unity showed on Tuesday, Dec.

Cody Isaacson of Webster drives the lane against the Cardinals.

Siren senior Andrew Brown elevates high into the air for a shot against the Eagles. – Photo by Garth Olson

6. It was a close game as Unity never allowed the Dragons to put the game away until late in the fourth quarter. Dragons coach Jon Ruud attributed that to rebounding.

“Unity destroyed us on the boards last night, and every time that we would get up by eight or nine points, Unity would get an offensive rebound, put back for an easy two,” Ruud said.

It was a sloppy game as well, according to Ruud, but he was pleased with the road win, despite poor play by his Dragons.

See Tuesday boys/page 12

Siren senior Murdock Smith broke free for a dunk during the first quarter. – Photo by Garth Olson

••• MEQUON, Ore. – After a successful high school career with the Frederic cross-country team, Samantha Nelson has continued her endeavors with the Concordia University Wisconsin crosscountry team, and is coming off a great freshman season.

Nelson finished in the top 14 runners at Sam Nelson the NAC Conference championships and earned First Team All-Conference recognition. Nelson and Concordia Wisconsin finished the season at a regional held in Rock Island, Ill., where Nelson was the first on the team to cross the finish line. She finished with a time of 24:00, which was a personal record 35 seconds faster than her previous mark. "I can only see great things ahead for Sam," said Nelson’s coach, Russ DeLap. – Marty Seeger with information from www.cuwfalcons.com ••• SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Former Luck standout Brennan Olson has moved into a starting role with the Augustana Vikings and has been steadily improving on the Division 2, 16th ranked team. Since becoming a starter for the Vikings on Nov. 22, Olson has hit season high points twice. Against Southwest Minnesota State on Friday, Dec. 2.

Olson had a career high 12 points, including a pair of crowd-stirring dunks, according to the Augustana athletics Web site. He is currently averaging 4.5 points per game and just over three rebounds per game. The Vikings are off to one of their best conference starts in recent school history as well, jumping out to a 2-0 start. – Marty Seeger with information from www.goaugie.com ••• LEADER LAND – The Luck at Grantsburg girls and boys basketball games are being broadcast on 104.9 FM on Friday, Dec. 9, beginning at 6 p.m.

The Tuesday, Dec. 13, Webster at St. Croix Falls boys and girls basketball game can be heard on 104.9 FM beginning at 6 p.m. The Raiders at Packers game on Sunday, Dec. 11, can be heard on 105.7 FM beginning at 3:15 p.m. The Vikings at Lions game on Sunday, Dec. 11, begins at noon and can be heard on 104.9 FM. ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete playing collegiate sports in 2011 and 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: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

S P O R T S N E W S O R S C O R E S T O R E P O R T ? • P H O N E : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 2 3 6 • FA X : 7 1 5 - 3 2 7 - 4 1 1 7 • E - M A I L : m s e e g e r @ c e n t u r y t e l . n e t

“Risks must be taken, because the greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing.” – Leo Buscaglia 551027 16L

BMC: Your hometown healthcare champions. Right here. Right now. 24/7.

Making a positive difference in our community since 1930.

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Frederic boys school Clear Lake Luck, Frederic and Grantsburg pick up wins on Thursday Frederic 53, Clear Lake 22

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer FREDERIC – The Frederic Viking boys had little trouble dispatching with the visiting Clear Lake Warriors on Thursday, Dec. 1, winning by a landslide, 53-22, in a nonconference season opener.

The Viking boys and the Warriors both had trouble converting in the first half, and the game was quite close until the second half when the Vikings used a press defense to stifle the Warriors like they were trapped in mud.

“We had a slow start offensively,” Viking head coach Ryan Lind stated.

“Hopefully, that was first-game jitters, but we picked up the intensity in the second half.”

The Vikes had several strong performances, including 17 points from Michael Tesch. Senior Waylon Buck added 11 points to the effort, and they also had 10 points from Ian Lexen.

While Clear Lake is down dramatically this season, they still have some talent, and if it hadn’t been for the second-half press, might have had a closer final score.

“We still have a lot to improve on,” Lind said. “We want to be competitive in our conference.”

Frederic hosts potential powerhouse Siren on Friday, Dec. 9, in a West Lakeland Conference contest. The Dragons promise to be a true defensive test for the Vikings.

Luck 56, Bruce 36 LUCK – The Luck Cardinal boys had little trouble handling the Bruce Raiders on Friday, Dec. 2, in their first home game of the 2011-2012 campaign, and it also gave fans a chance to see the squad since graduating lots of recent starters last spring.

The Cards led the whole way, and ended up winning 56-36.

“It was a better game for us,” stated

Cardinal junior Kyle Hunter heads skyward for a shot. – Photo by Greg Marsten

Tuesday boys/continued “We are big, but Unity has good size and is quicker and more athletic than us,” Ruud said. “Overall, I think that Unity is a very, very good team, that will only get better. Their 0-3 record means nothing and they will be a force in our conference this year. They are loaded with athletes, and are still missing Xavier from a football injury. We are happy to come out of that gym with a 12-point victory.”

Viking senior Waylon Buck grabs a loose ball against the Clear Lake Warriors. – Photo by Greg Marsten Cardinal head coach Rick Giller. “We’re seeing some improvement individually and teamwise. Our defense was solid and we did a good job on the boards.”

The Cards were solid at the charity stripe as well, going 18-24. “That was a bright spot,” Giller said.

Sophomore Karsten Petersen led all scorers with 17 points, followed closely by John Denny, who added a double-double with 16 points and 12 boards in the effort.

Luck looked quite deep, and questions of replacing several of last year’s graduated seniors quickly evaporated with the performance.

“Hopefully, each game we can improve on some weak spots and get closer to playing a good, complete game,” Giller said.

The Cardinals also had strong nights from Dylan Lemay and Jesse Rennicke, who each added seven points in the win,

and both had a chance to show off their ball-handling skills.

Luck travels to Grantsburg on Friday for a contest with the Grantsburg Pirates, which will be a true test of their defense and ability to contain scoring threats.

Somerset 60, Unity 43 BALSAM LAKE– The Eagle boys basketball team struggled to get their offense rolling in a nonconference test against Somerset on Thursday, Dec. 1. This was Unity’s second straight loss before entering conference play against the Dragons, which took place Tuesday, Dec. 6. (See game story elsewhere in this sports section).

Against the Spartans, the Eagles played a nearly scoreless first quarter, before Steven Kruger managed to put up the first Unity layup of the game with 1:26 left in the first quarter. The Eagles defense kept

Cardinal junior Dylan LeMay goes up against the Bruce defense. – Photo by Greg Marsten The Dragons were up by five at the half, and had a balanced scoring attack. Murdock Smith had 21 points, Elijah Hinze, 16, Andrew Brown, 12, Willaim Haines, five and Luke Bollant and David St. John each added two.

Unity’s Brady Turney had 15 points, followed by Steven Krueger 13, Brandon McKenzie, six, Zac Johnson, five, Clay Peckman, three and Aaron Koshatka and Oliver Raboin each had two.

“The most important thing for our team last night is we played as a team on both

offense and defense, and the sloppiness will get better,” said Ruud.

Grantsburg 57, Frederic 32 GRANTSBURG – The Viking boys basketball team had a 22-21 halftime lead, yet the Pirates pulled things together in the second half to win their first conference game of the season.

“I can’t say that we did much of anything good in the first half,” said Pirates coach Nick Hallberg. The second half we started to get the ball in the post, and Seth

Viking senior Jace den Hoed elevates against the Warriors for a shot. – Photo by Greg Marsten the Spartans in check, however, and the first quarter ended with an 11-4 Spartans lead.

The Eagles managed to keep pace in the third quarter as Somerset led 26-17 at the half, but the Spartans continued to pull away in the third quarter, leading by as much as 17. While the Eagles tried making a comeback late in the fourth quarter, it wasn’t enough. – Marty Seeger

Grantsburg 74, Shell Lake 17 SHELL LAKE – The Grantsburg boys basketball team handed Shell Lake a crushing loss on Friday, Dec. 2, in their season opener. The Pirates defense was stingy, holding the Lakers to single digits in each of the four quarters, and five Pirates recorded double-digit scoring.

Grantsburg scored 23 points in the first

See Thursday boys/page 17

Unity’s Oliver Raboin draws a foul against Somerset on Thursday, Dec. 1. – Photo by Marty Seeger (Coy) and David (Ohnstad) decided to kind of take over. We need that balance every night.”

Coy led the Pirates with 17 points and Connor Myers had 11. Brady Thompson added nine, Nolan Hanson and Ohnstad each had seven and Daniel Biorn had six points.

Waylon Buck led Frederic with 16 points, Michael Tesch had eight, Ian Lexen added six and Jayce den Hoed had two.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

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Luck girls fall to Bulldogs in opener Chetek-Weyerhaeuser 61, Luck 55

“We had nine kids get significant minutes, but only six hit the scorebook,” Messar noted. “We need everyone to contribute at both ends of the floor if we want to be a successful ball club.”

Chetek capitalized on Luck’s 5-14 freethrow shooting, and outscored the Cardinals by an 18-to-13 margin in the final quarter for the six-point victory.

“We played hard ... but couldn’t win it at crunch time,” Messar said. “Lots of good things happened and lots for us to work on.”

Luck travels to Grantsburg on Friday, Dec. 9, for a West Lakeland Conference match against the Pirates.

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer CHETEK – The Luck Cardinal girls fell to the Bulldogs in their regular season opener on Tuesday, Dec. 6, by a 61-55 final score.

“We were up at half, then down by a point going into the last quarter,” stated Luck head coach Marty Messar. “They made 8 of 10 free throws to seal the win.”

Luck shot 23 of 60 field goals for the game, working out to a 38.3-percent field goal efficiency. Avery Steen led the Cards with 24 points and added nine assists.

Freshman Jenni Holdt had 12 points, and both Hannah Karl and Camille Marsten added six points to the Cardinal total.

Leading rebounders for the Cards were Marsten with seven boards, followed by Steen and Holdt with six rebounds each.

LEFT: Luck’s Jenni Holdt takes a shot against the Bulldogs on Tuesday, Dec. 6. FAR LEFT: Luck’s Maia Lehmann fights for a rebound. – Photos by Jenna Clemenson

Frederic girls fend off Clayton dled it well.”

Frederic was 17-30 from the free-throw line, and Miller also led the way with 10 boards for a double-double.

The Vikings are now 2-0 overall, and host last year’s West Lakeland Conference champion Siren Dragons on Friday, Dec. 9.

Other area West Lakeland teams pick up wins Frederic 51, Clayton 41

Siren 51, Clear Lake 39 SIREN – The Dragon girls basketball team powered up over Clear Lake for their first win of the season on Friday, Dec. 2.

The game was close for much of the way before Siren cranked up the defense in the fourth quarter, holding Clear Lake to just five points and putting up 18 points offensively. Much of the Siren scoring in the fourth quarter came from the freethrow line, shooting 12 of 17.

Carly Good led the Dragons with a 19point effort, followed by Raven Emery with 12, and Abby Mitchell and Brittany Coulter each had seven. Emily Howe and Mack Smith had three points apiece.

The Dragons will be playing their first conference game of the season at Frederic this Friday, Dec. 9, beginning at 6 p.m.

– Marty Seeger

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer FREDERIC – The Viking girls basketball team was able to keep the Bears of Clayton in check in their home opener on Thursday, Dec. 1, in part because of a strong first quarter and an inability of the Bears to score in that first frame.

Frederic won, 51-41, but the contest was tied several times and gave Viking fans a little excitement along the way.

The Bears pressed the Vikes for essentially the whole game, which tested both squads so early in the season, but the senior duo of Maria Miller and Corissa Schmidt responded well, with each of them tallying 19 points in the win.

“It was a battle,” stated Viking head coach Troy Wink. “Fairly well-played game, a little sloppy at times but a fastpaced game that led to the sloppiness.”

Wink noted the defensive play of Natalie Phernetton and Katie Simpson, who both had lots of minutes and gave strong performances.

“To keep fresh, we basically had two subs that we rotated, so a few of our girls played the whole game, and for only the second game of the year, I thought we han-

LEFT: Katie Simpson of Frederic eyes a shot against the Clayton Bears. RIGHT: Viking senior Corissa Schmidt powers up to the basket. – Photos by Greg Marsten

The Siren Dragons pulled out their first win of the season against Clear Lake recently. – Photo by Mackenzie Erickson

Siren’s win over Clear Lake on Friday, Dec. 2, sets them up for their first conference game against Frederic this Friday, Dec. 9. – Photo by Mackenzie Erickson

St. Croix Falls 45, Osceola 42 ST. CROIX FALLS – A 23-point effort by Sarah Petznick and another 18 by Sydney Geisness helped the Saints girls basketball team on the offensive side of a big win

See Girls basketball/page 16

ABOVE: Saints forward Sydney Geisness gets surrounded by Osceola defenders, including Shauna Rein, who played at Webster last year. ABOVE RIGHT: Sarah Petznick had a solid night offensively for the Saints last Thursday, Dec. 1. – Photos by Garth Olson

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LFG wrestlers outduel Flambeau in opening meet Finish first tournament of season at Rush City LFG 33, Flambeau 24

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer LUCK – The Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg wrestling team has a solid lineup this season, and according to coach Chris Bartlet, who has been with the program since 1999, this team has several kids with high expectations.

“This is probably one of the most athletic teams I have had. I can challenge the kids in practice and they usually are up for the challenge,” Bartlett said.

The team competed in its very first dual match of the season against Flambeau last Thursday, Dec. 1, and won 33-24. It was the first dual win in four previous matches against the Falcons, and a good feeling for the coaches and team as well.

“The kids don’t know what it felt like to beat Flambeau. The coaches as a whole agreed that the kids wrestled hard and no one gave up. I was really impressed with the young kids we have. They all made weight and they showed they are paying attention in the room. It was also nice to see the kids on the bench cheering for their teammates,” Bartlett said.

The win was fueled by several close matches and solid wins from junior Evan Ryan at 132 pounds, who recorded his first pin of the season. Senior Brent Johnson won a 7-4 decision at 138, and freshman Josh Glover won a 10-4 decision.

Sophomore Nick Britton also won his first match of the season in a 7-2 decision at 195.

The wrestlers have quite a bit of experience this year, according to Bartlett, and he says many have been wrestling since a very young age with the youth wrestling programs in the area. He says at least six of his wrestlers have set very high expectations and he feels those individuals can achieve those goals. As a team, they have high goals as well.

“I think any conference match we have I am looking forward to. If we can fill a few holes, we have a chance at the confer-

LEFT: Evan Ryan recorded his first pin of the season. RIGHT: Brent Johnson won a 7-4 decision against Flambeau. – Photos by Marty Seeger

LEFT: Josh Glover won a 10-4 decision in LFG’s first wrestling match of the season. RIGHT: Nick Britton won in a 7-2 decision. to finish ahead of four other teams. ence title,” Bartlett said. class at 152, and Evan Ryan came in third Each wrestler finished in fourth place or and finished the tourney with a 3-1 record Last year the team had three wrestlers at the sectional meet and two are back to better, including Tristan Brewer at 113. He at 132. Colton Branville took fourth overtry and make it to the state tournament. took second overall and, according to all at 160, along with teammates Alex Johnson, who wrestled at 125 last season, Bartlett, ran into a solid competitor in the Richey, 170 and Nick Britton, 195.

“We had a very good day,” said coach lost his first match at sectionals last year finals. Also making it to the finals were to end his season. Junior Joe Christenson Brent Johnson at 138 and Josh Glover at Chris Bartlett. “There is no seeding at this is back again this season as well, and won 145. Both wrestlers took second place, and tournament so you can run into the best by a forfeit at 182 to start the season. He Johnson lost a tough match in overtime in guy in the first and second round.”

Overall, it could be a very exciting seawrestled two matches at sectionals last a 5-3 decision. Glover had to wrestle through an injury in the semifinals, and son for the LFG wrestling program, and it year, but brings back the experience. wasn’t able to wrestle in the finals. already appears that they’re off to a great Joe Christensen placed second overall at start.

LFG competes at Rush City “We have a young team and a lot of new RUSH CITY, Minn., – 182, but ran into some tough competition Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg competed at a in the finals. Others placing and wrestling faces, but they all have experience. If we tournament in Rush City, Minn., on Satur- in the tournament included Blain stay healthy, it should be a good year,” day, and despite wrestling without four Clemons, who took third at 220. Tony Brit- Bartlett said. weight classes being filled, they managed ton took third after wrestling up a weight

Saints wrestlers finish strong at Ellsworth tournament Solid lineup makes St. Croix Falls a dominant team this season

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Falls wrestling team got off to a great start to the season with a third-place finish in Ellsworth on Saturday, Dec. 3. According to coach Dan Clark, it could be the team’s best finish ever in Ellsworth, which includes other wrestling powers such as

Medford, Cadott and Boyceville to name a few. Ellsworth looks to be the team to beat again in Division 2, followed by Boyceville, Amery and Clear Lake. But the Saints have one of their most solid lineups in the past four years, according to Clark, and have a great shot at taking the team far into the postseason.

At least three weight classes have yet to be filled due to injury, or getting to the proper weight requirements, but Clark is hopeful they’ll be ready to wrestle by the Northern Badger Tournament.

“Once we get those kids in the lineup, hopefully by Christmas, we should be rock solid,” said Clark.

All 14 weight classes will be filled with

wrestlers who were on varsity last season, and the team has a solid core of seniors, including Drew Wheeler at 106 pounds, Grant Simpson 152, and Jake Rademacher, 171, who took first place at Ellsworth.

Sophomore Joe Rademacher, 182, was a champion at Ellsworth as well.

Team captains include Jake Rademacher, Ryan Nussbaum, 195, and Eric Segelstrom at 160. Both Jake Rademacher and Nussbaum are very close to 100 career wins, and should reach that mark by Christmas.

“I just thought the kids wrestled well.

Obviously we have a long way to go, but for our first tournament the kids wrestled well,” Clark said, adding that heavy-

weight junior Ryan Johnson was a pleasant surprise at the tournament, as he took second overall.

“If kids stay healthy and we can get everybody on the mat, we’re going to be awfully solid. But a lot of things can happen,” Clark said.

Jake Rademacher

Unity wrestling team filled with young athletes Fall Creek is next in sectional semifinal this Thursday

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer BALSAM LAKE – The Unity wrestling team is hoping to be competitive this season with a roster filled with young athletes, and a handful of experienced seniors. Last year the Eagles were able to get three wrestlers to the state tournament including Luke Nelson, Dylan Hendricks and Alex Lennartson, who is the only returning state qualifier back from last year as Nelson and Hendricks have since grad-

uated. Lennartson, a junior, is the Eagles heavyweight this season and looking to get back to the state tournament once again. He got off to a good start in the team’s first tournament of the season in Ellsworth on Saturday, Dec. 3, where he placed first overall.

All of Lennartson’s wins came by pin.

“Overall I’m pretty pleased with where we’re at,” said Unity

Alex Lennartson

coach Shawn Perkins. “I always tell the kids, it’s not the first tournament, it’s the last tournaments. Regionals, sectionals and state. It’s all practice until then.”

Other notables from the Ellsworth tournament included a third-place finish by Jordan Hughes at 182. Hughes lost to a talented Ellsworth sophomore but led much of the way.

“It was a real close match, but ended up on the wrong end of a scramble,” Perkins said.

Although the team is quite young, Perkins said he hopes his senior core will be able to lead the team through experience and example. Seniors include Steven Anderson, at 145 pounds, Kevin Bystrom, 138, Hughes and Garrett Lunsmann, 195.

The Eagles still have a few holes to fill this season on the 14-man roster, but Perkins is hoping they’ll have a full team by the end of the season, and be able to compete in the regional and sectional tournament.

“Having a kid go to state is pretty cool, but nowhere near as great as a team being a conference champion or a regional team champion. Those things are way more rewarding, I think, for our whole team than having one kid go to state,” Perkins said.

The Eagles will be hosting their first dual meet of the season against Shell Lake and Spring Valley this Thursday, Dec. 8, beginning at 5 p.m.

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Blizzard girls win one but lose a pair Silver Bay, Minn., 10, Blizzard 3 Blizzard 12, Tomahawk 8 Cambridge-Isanti 7, Blizzard 6

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer SIREN/SILVER BAY, Minn. – The Blizzard girls hockey team split their first two regular season contests last week, falling hard to Silver Bay by a 10-3 final score on Friday, Dec. 2, on the road in Silver Bay, Minn. They also lost a heartbreaker on Tuesday, Dec. 6, on the road, after they had made a strong comeback that tied the game.

The Blizzard got their first win of the season on Saturday, Dec. 3, at home in Siren when they dominated the Tomahawk Hatchets with a 12-8 win.

On the road on Dec. 2 in Silver Bay, the Blizzard had some defensive issues, and gave up five unanswered goals in the first period against the Mariners of Silver Bay, and finally were able to get on the scoreboard early in the second period with a Wendy Roberts score off a Johanna Lauer assist.

But the Mariners kept rolling, and added three more goals before the Blizzard got back into a scoring groove with an unassisted Kassie Lien tally. Paige Young scored a goal off a Lien assist early in the third frame, but Silver Bay scored again to make it 10-3, which stood as the final score.

The Blizzard girls recovered well the next day, and looked strong against the Tomahawk Hatchets on Dec. 3, exploding

out of the gates with a goal just 17 seconds into the game.

The Blizzard girls only tailed briefly in the first period, but otherwise led the bulk of the game. The Blizzard had strong offensive nights from Lien, Roberts and Sam O’Brien, who each had four goals. Ashley Dietmeier added two goals, and the assist credits went deep, with helpers going to seven different players.

The scoring got so extensive the scoresheet ran out of room, and had to be altered by hand to register the credits, goals and assists.

Hope Tucker had a stronger game in goal on Saturday, Dec. 3, making 16 saves out of 24 shots on goal.

The Blizzard girls were back on the road on Tuesday, Dec. 6, traveling to Cambridge/Isanti, Minn., where they lost a heartbreaker, 7-6.

O’Brien scored two goals and had an assist, while Roberts added a late-game hat trick on top of an assist. Lien got the other Blizzard goal and also had an assist in the loss. Also getting credits were Paige Johnson and Tianna Stewart who each had assists in the contest.

The Blizzard lost the contest in the final minutes of the third frame, after tying the contest with four straight goals in the third period, adding to the heartbreak of the loss.

The Blizzard are on the road again this Friday, Dec. 9, when they travel to Black River Falls, and again on Saturday, Dec. 10, at Onalaska.

Blizzard defender Johanna Lauer works the puck against a Tomahawk forward. – Photo by Greg Marsten

Blizzard girls Kassie Lien and Sam O'Brien battle with Tomahawk defensemen for the puck.

– Photo by Greg Marsten

Blizzard’s Wendy Roberts slides the puck past Cambridge/Isanti, Minn., goalie in one of her three goals during the game. – Photo submitted

Natural talent, new faces for SCF/Unity gymnastics Team completes first competition at Chisago Lakes, Minn.

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Falls/Unity gymnastics team competed in its first meet of the season at Chisago Lakes, Minn., on Thursday, Dec. 1. It’s a relatively new year for the entire team as six of eight

girls from Unity are new to the sport. Only two athletes have joined from St. Croix Falls, but 10th-year coach Dawn Peer hopes that will change soon.

“Last season was disappointing in the respect that so many of the gymnasts who started the season quit. The ones who did remain dedicated are back again this season except, of course, my senior Kady Meyer, who will be missed,” Peer said.

Two seniors include Ashley Johnson and Jenna Christensen, who Peer is hoping to have success this season. Juniors Kasey

Heimstead and Roquel McCloud are also strong athletes who are making fast improvements.

“Since two-thirds of our team is new this year, I am hoping to have a lot of success.

We have freshman Olivia Nelson joining the team with a lot of natural talent for the sport of gymnastics. Juniors Anna Luepke and Emily Bethke have a natural presence on the floor, each taking time to execute each move. Sophomores Kennedy Olson and Ella Luepke are a little more timid in the sport but I am hopeful that they will find their

niche and be successful,” said Peer.

The team has several athletes with dance experience, so one of their strengths could be in the floor competitions, but Peer said the team will likely have some ups and downs on the bars.

At Chisago Lakes, the team scored a total of 78.075 points. Notables included 7.975 points in the vault for Jenna Christensen, who also took fifth in the floor competition with a 7.0. Ashley Johnson took fourth place in the beam with a 7.175.

Grantsburg gymnasts getting set for first meet Team travels to first competition in Superior this Friday

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg Pirate gymnasts are no doubt excited to finally start competition this season.

Practice actually began during the first week of November, but the girls will be competing at their first meet this Friday, Dec. 9.

In her 14th season as Grantsburg’s coach, Kathy Lund hopes to see a lot of

success out of her girls despite the numbers. She will be working with just seven, and that kind of depth could make things difficult in terms of competing as a team, and scoring points. They also can’t afford to lose any players during the season.

“This year the team is small, so there is really no backup, if one is sick, injured or has an off meet, that will affect the team score,” Lund said.

Last year was a memorable year for the Pirates, as they got Amy Lerud to state.

Lerud will again be a dominant force in the all-around competitions and Lund says she has already added new skills to each of her routines. Another all-around gymnast will be Heidi Horky, and Raelyn

Pochman, who was the team’s most improved gymnast last year. She improved two points heading into sectionals last year and is already up seven points from the start of last season according to Lund.

Rachel Diffee is another competitor who will be joining the team this season after suffering a sprained ankle last year, and RuthAnn Pederson will compete in the all-around events, and is stronger this season.

Lund is looking forward to the team’s competition in Superior this Friday.

“Superior is one of our favorite meets, even though it’s our first meet and it’s against two Division 1 schools. The gym atmosphere is great!” Lund said.

She also says she enjoys the invitationals overall, because it offers them a chance to get a look at several competitors and see what kinds of talent that other teams offer up in their sectional.

“I think we will have a nice steady overall improvement. With a small team, everyone is getting more one-on-one time. We are starting off where we left off last season; everyone has the experience of competing. New skills are being added to their routines and we are working on getting rid of the little deductions that seem to add up,” Lund said.

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Local earns spot in Punt, Pass and Kick competition in Green Bay

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer WEBSTER – Among the thousands of young athletes who have been competing in the NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competitions over the past few months, only 40 remain in each of the five brackets age 6 to 15. Jenna Curtis, a 12-year-old seventh-grader from Webster, and daughter of Kelly and Preston Curtis, is getting ready to compete with 40 other athletes age 12-13 on Sunday, Dec. 11, at the Don Hudson Center near historic Lambeau Field, for a chance to move onto the national competition.

Jenna competed at the regional and sectional Pepsi NFL Punt, Pass and Kick competitions held in Siren, and took first place in both. During the sectional competition, Jenna recorded a total distance of 256 feet, 11 inches, which she believed to be her bestever mark, which is the total distance of

Girls basketball/continued over Osceola in the season opener on Thursday, Dec. 1.

The game was the first of three straight home games to open up the season, with the Saints next battle set for a Friday, Dec. 9, game against Unity beginning at 6 p.m.

Osceola led 17-14 after the first quarter before the Saints played a good second quarter defensively, holding the Chieftains to eight points, while St. Croix Falls piled on 18 to take a 33-25 halftime lead.

The game was tight until the final seconds, but the Saints held on in a wellplayed game by both teams. – Marty Seeger

Jenna Curtis, Webster, is heading to Green Bay to compete in the 12- to 13-year-old Punt, Pass and Kick competition. – Photo submitted

Unity 49, Turtle Lake 47 BALSAM LAKE – After a season-opening loss to the Clear Lake Warriors, the Unity girls basketball team pulled out a well-deserved win over Turtle Lake on Thursday, Dec. 1, in a 49-47 thriller.

“It was a good win for us,” said Eagles coach Carol Kline.

A key steal by Shauna Jorgenson with just seconds remaining in the game, and a two-point jumper just inside the 3-point arc by Jorgenson helped the Eagles seal the last second victory, and showed that Unity won’t be a pushover this season.

Jorgenson led the team with 22 points, followed by Brittany Thomfohrda with 12,

their allowed one punt, one pass and one placekick. When comparing that mark to other girls who have recently competed in the team championship, which is held nationally through the 32 NFL programs, Jenna would be fifth overall. The leader is a girl from Oregon City, Ore., with a total distance of 297 feet, 1 inch.

“I’m probably more nervous than excited,” Jenna said recently, as she gets ready for the competition on Sunday. She and family members will be traveling to Green Bay as part of the competition, but will also soak in the Packers versus Raiders game while they’re there. Although the game tickets aren’t part of the competition winnings, Jenna could win playoff tickets. She must first be the top finisher in her age group to be declared the team champion, and then her score must be in the top four nationally to qualify as a national finalist.

Even though Jenna is a Vikings fan, she said she still might cheer on the Packers this weekend when they take on the Raiders.

Her favorite players are Vikings receiver Percy Harvin and running back Adrian Peterson.

“I like Clay Matthews. They are a good team, I just don’t like Aaron Rodgers. He’s kinda ugly,” Jenna said, and added that she might consider being a Packer fan if Brett Favre was still their quarterback.

With all jokes aside, Jenna is a true competitor at heart. She’s been playing hockey since she was 3 years old, and plays volleyball, track, softball and likes to ride horse.

She’s been competing with the NFL PP&K competitions for the past two years, but has competed in the local PP&K competitions through the Knights of Columbus, and has won three state championships, which were held in Marshfield.

Hailey Olson and Shay Nelson each had six and Kayla Johnson had three. – Marty Seeger Grantsburg 54, Winter 44 WINTER – The Grantsburg girls basketball team played their first game of the season on the road against Winter on Thursday, Dec. 1, and took a nice win in the process, winning by 10 points.

“I thought we came out and played intense defense in the first half and forced some tough shots. We also got off to a good start offensively with Carly Larson scoring 11 in the first half and Sam Schwieger finishing with 17. We did a good job overall on the glass with Kylie Pewe and Liz Gaffney leading the way

with 10 and nine rebounds respectively,” said Pirates coach Adam Hale.

Larson ended with 13 total points and Nicole McKenzie added eight, followed

by Gaffney and Pewe’s six apiece and Macy Hanson’s four points. The Pirates will be hosting Luck in their first conference game of the season, with a game time of 6 p.m.

“We have a lot of work to do before the Friday, Dec. 9, conference matchup with Luck but I was happy with how the girls played for a first game,” Hale added.

– Marty Seeger

AREA BOWLING RESULTS Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Youth Games Standings: The North 27, The Dogs 25, The Girls 23, The Bowlers 22.5, Gears of War 22.5, Team Hambone 22.5, Hi There 19.5, The Strikers 14.

Boys games: Parker Steen (TN) 223, Kyle Hunter (TB) 221, Jordan Bazey (TB) 220.

Boys series: Jordan Bazey (TB) 594, Kyle Hunter (TB) 533, Parker Steen (TN) 511.

Girls games: Lauren Domogala (TG) 169, Corissa Schmidt (TG) 165, Julia Owens (HT) and Avery Steen (TG) 155.

Girls series: Corissa Schmidt (TG) 467, Avery Steen (TG) 440, Lauren Domogala (TG) 421.

Team games: The Bowlers 543, The Girls 466, Gears of War 455.

Team series: The Bowlers 1543, The Girls 1328, Hi There 1286.

Monday Afternoon Senior Standings: Eagles 31, Hummingbirds 27, Night Hawks 22, Vultures 21.5, Bears 19, Swans 19, Badgers 19.

Men’s games (Handicap): Tim Tyler 248, Bob Eischens 239, Ron Noble 220.

Men’s series (Handicap): Tim Tyler 617, Ron Noble 596, Tony Deiss 587.

Women’s games (Handicap): Mary Young 219, Betty Anderson 202, Pat Bresina 198.

Women’s series (Handicap): Mary Young 620, Betty Anderson 569, Pearl Noble 556.

Team games (Handicap): Eagles 782, Bears 777, Swans 770.

Team series (Handicap): Hummingbirds 2236, Bears 2219, Eagles 2202.

Thursday Late Standings: Hansen Farms Inc. 33, Fisk Trucking 26, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 19, Stotz & Company 18.

Men’s games: Eugene Wynn Jr. 236, Dale Frandsen 234, Richard Coen 220.

Men’s series: Eugene Wynn Jr. 676, Dale Frandsen 592, Richard Coen 542.

Women’s games: Heather Wynn 182.

Women’s series: Heather Wynn 492 Team games: Hansen Farms Inc. 955, Stotz & Company 896, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 816.

Team series: Hansen Farms Inc. 2739, Stotz & Company 2373, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 2354.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: Pin Heads 62.5, The Leader 57.5, Junque Art 52.5, SKM 50, Pioneer Bar 49, Meyer’s Plus 47, Frederic Design 37.5.

Individual games: Margie Traun 206, Gail Linke 202, Judy Mravik 196.

Individual series: Karen Carlson 518, Char Sanberg 517, Margie Traun and Gail Linke 512.

Team games: Pin Heads 660, SKM 613, Junque Art 603.

Team series: SKM 1798, Pin Heads 1793, Pioneer Bar 1772.

Games 50 or more above average: Steph Nelson, Margie Traun and Judy Mravik.

Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Lakers, Handicaps, Hot Shots, Rebel Alliance, Luck-E, Skowl.

Men’s games: Ron Skow 238, 236, 235, Mark Bohn 222, 211.

Men’s series: Ron Skow 709, Mark Bohn 591, Mike Renfroe 536.

Women’s games: Deb Ingram 203, Kathy Java 188, Ramona Renfroe 182.

Women’s series: Deb Ingram 551, Kathy Java 514, Ramona Renfroe 507.

Team games: Skowl 920, Lakers 916, 906.

Team series: Lakers 2688, Skowl 2645, Rebel Alliance 2570.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Alyeska Contracting 25, Edina Divas 24, Milltown Appliance 23, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 21.5, Metal Products 18, McKenzie Lanes 15.5, Frederic Truck & Tractor 7, Bye 2.

Individual games: Helen Leggitt 210, Cindy Castellano 187, Toni Sloper 179.

Individual series: Helen Leggitt 530, Cindy Castellano 488, Toni Sloper 485.

Team games (Handicap): Alyeska Contracting 853.

Team series (Handicap): Alyeska Contracting 2504.

Monday Night Madness Standings: McKenzie Lanes 64, Alleycats 59, Mishaps 57, Eagle Lounge 40, Bogus Punkins 30, Bye 14.

Individual games: Debbie Swanson 234, Julia Delougherty 190, Barbara Benson 182.

Individual series: Debbie Swanson 548, Barbara Benson 524, Julia Delougherty 512.

Team games (Handicap): Mishaps 654, McKenzie Lanes 642.

Team series (Handicap): McKenzie Lanes 1846, Alleycats 1808.

Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: 1 Pin Short 70, Lane Crashers 67.5, What the Ek 63, Lemon Heads 51.5.

Men’s games: Kevin Ek 224, Jeff Lehmann 191, Gilbert Berg 152.

Men’s series: Kevin Ek 638, Jeff Lehmann 533, Jeff Bringgold 416.

Women’s games: Jill Behnke 182, Beth Ahlgren 170, Brenda Lehmann 159.

Women’s series: Jill Behnke 484, Brenda Lehmann 438, Beth Ahlgren 408.

Team games: What the Ek 497.

Team series: What the Ek 1403.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Hack’s Pub 51, McKenzie Lanes 42.5, The Dugout 42, Steve’s Appliance 40, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 40, Dream Lawn 38, The Cobbler Shop 36.5, Centurview Park 30.

Individual games: Donny Potting Jr. 242, Randie Gustafson 225, Dave Steinert

Team games (Handicap): Cutting Edge Pro 747, Bont Chiropractic 743, Hauge Dental 721.

Team series (Handicap): Bont Chiropractic 2211, Cutting Edge Pro 2179, Truhlsen Chiropractic 2127.

Black & Orange

222.

Individual series: Craig Willert 634, Rick Katzmark 615, Randie Gustafson 604.

Team games (Handicap): The Dugout 1230.

Team series (Handicap): Hack’s Pub 3474.

Wednesday Early Standings: Suzie Q’s 64, Top Spot 54, Amrhien Painting 48, Hack’s Pub 48, Gerhman Auto Body 46, Holiday Station 42, Cutting Edge 34, Bye 16.

Men’s games: Brad Hacker 223, Eric Hoffman 221, Merlin Fox 202.

Men’s series: John Gehrman 553, Merlin Fox 552, Eric Hoffman 539.

Women’s games: Janice Fox 171, Patty Walker 169, Amy Eibs 165.

Women’s series: Janice Fox 494, Patty Walker 432, Amy Eibs 413.

Team games (Handicap): Suzie Q’s 679.

Team series (Handicap): Suzie Q’s 1849.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Hanjo Farms 24, Harvest Moon 22, McKenzie Lanes 20, Edina Realty 18, Davy’s Construction 16, Dalles Electrical 16, Reed’s Marina 8, Tiger Express 4.

Individual games: Jesse Schultz 234, Gene Swenson 228, Jim McKenzie and Scott Davison 226.

Individual series: Craig Willert 649, Jim McKenzie 637, Gene Swenson 600.

Team games (Handicap): Dalles Electrical 1068, Davy’s Construction 1022.

Team series (Handicap): Dalles Electrical 2904, Davy’s Construction 2857.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Eagle Valley Bank 28, Bont Chiropractic 22.5, Truhlsen Chiropractic 22, KJ’s 21.5, Hauge Dental 20, Hack’s Pub 17, Cutting Edge Pro 15.5, RiverBank 13.5.

Individual games: Jane Smith 190, Brenda Lehmann 188, Kathy McKenzie 187.

Individual series: Jane Smith 545, Dawn High 500, Annette Norlander and Jennifer Whelan 478.

Early Birds Congrats to Yellow River Saloon for winning the first half.

Standings: Yellow River Saloon 30.517.5, The Tap 26.5-21.5, Black & Orange 23.5-24.5, Gandy Dancer Saloon 15.532.5.

Individual games: Michelle Lysdahl (YRS) 167, Kay Casey (YRS) 160, Rosie Pumper (GDS) 155.

Individual series: Kay Casey (YRS) 443, Donna Crain (B&O) 428, Delores Lien (T) 407.

Team games: Yellow River Saloon 903, Black & Orange 837, The Tap 822.

Team series: Yellow River Saloon 2574, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2362, The Tap 2326.

TNT Standings: Flower Power 40-12, Cashco 34-18, Larry’s LP 26-26, Vacant 4-48.

Individual games: Carol Phelps (FP) 185, Cheryl Scallon (C) 180, Sue Eytcheson (FP) 175.

Individual series: Jennifer Kern (L) 498, Cheryl Scallon (C), 475, Carol Phelps (FP) 459.

Team games: Flower Power 898, Larry’s LP 876, Cashco 832.

Team series: Flower Power 2543, Cashco 2455, Larry’s LP 2415.

Games 50 or more above average: Carol Phelps 185 (+65) Monday Night Men’s Standings: Glass & Mirror Works 29-11, Black & Orange 26-14, Larry’s LP 20-20, Vacant 5-35.

Individual games: Art Bliven (L) 224, Dean Eytcheson (G&MW) 223, Breck Eytcheson (G&MW) and Larry Johnson (L) 212.

Individual series: Dean Eytcheson (G&MW) 601, Breck Eytcheson (G&MW) 575, Larry Johnson (L) 552.

Team games: Glass & Mirror Works 1004, Larry’s LP 978, Black & Orange 941.

Team series: Glass & Mirror Works 2908, Larry’s LP 2804, Black & Orange 2589.

Games 50 or more above average: Dean Eytcheson 575 (+110), Art Bliven 224 (+51) and Beck Eytcheson 212 (+57).

Games 100 or more above average: Breck Eytcheson.

Wednesday Night Standings: Cashco 32-8, Lions 23-17, Black & Orange 18.5-21.5, Zia Louisa’s 17.5-22.5, Pheasant Inn 15-25, Vacant 713.

Individual games: Tony Wilson (B&O) 237, Gene Ackland (ZL) 224, Roger Tollander (C) 223.

Individual series: Gene Ackland (ZL) 568, Roger Tollander (C) 552, Tony Wilson (B&O) 531.

Team games: Zia Louisa’s 967, Black & Orange 962, Cascho 925.

Team series: Cashco 2396, Black & Orange 2664, Zia Louisa’s 2645.

Games 50 or more above average: Tony Wilson 237 (+85), Roger Tollander 223 (+58) and Ken Tonsager 217 (+53).

Early Risers Standings: A+ Sanitation 30-18, Gayle’s Northwoods Hair Design 26-22, Gandy Dancer 22-26, 10th Hole 18-30.

Individual games: Lylah Nelson (A+) 169, Pam Dildine (10th) 168, Millie Hansen (GNHD) 167.

Individual series: Lylah Nelson (A+) 488, Pam Dildine (10th) 471, Millie Hansen (GNHD) 457.

Team games: 10th Hole 682, Gayle’s Northwoods Hair Design 673, Gandy Dancer 670.

Team series: A+ Sanitation 1997, 10th Hole 1967, Gayle’s Northwoods Hair Design 1929.

Games 50 or more above average: Millie Hansen 167 (+50).

Thursday Night Standings: Dolls w/ Balls 28-16, Pour House 22-22, Webster Motel 20-24, Rollettes 18-26.

Individual games: Christine Arntson (WM) 174, Marisa Churchill (DW/B) 167, Jacquelyn Churchill (DW/B) 166.

Individual series: Jacquelyn Churchill (DW/B) 463, Christine Arntson (WM) 432, Shaurette Reynolds (DW/B) 409.

Team games: Dolls w/ Balls 704, Rollettes 682, Pour House 681.

Team series: Dolls w/ Balls 1954, Pour House 1905, Rollettes 1899.

Denny’s Downtown Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: Spare Us 7, Blind 7, Team Siren 4, George’s Angels 3, Redneck Coon Hunters 0, The Pacifiers 0.

Women’s games:, Ernie Meyer 145, “Trouble” Barfknecht 143, Theresa Eckstrom 134.

Women’s series:, Ernie Meyer 393, “Trouble” Barfknecht 379, Theresa Eckstrom 354.

Men’s games: Jim Loomis 191, Issac Jewell 163, Jamie Meir 162.

Men’s series: Jim Loomis 517, George Nutt 439, Jamie Meir 437.

Team games: Spare Us 459, George’s Angels 401, Team Siren 387.

Team series: Spare Us 1262, George’s Angels 1194, Redneck Coon Hunters and Blind 1080.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

W

L

I N T E R

Absent icon Some fans who attended last night’s WebsterLuck battle were buzzing about the conspicuous absence of Jim Sorenson who has been an assistant Tigers boys hoop coach for a quarter of a century.

Apparently Sorenson, a Luck High School alumnus, has traded in the hardcourt in exchange for the frozen surface of a few undisclosed Leader Land lakes.

E A D E R

it seems Johnson was out for a romp on his mountain bicycle.

Southern Polk connection The resurgent Shell Lake girls basketball team, which is 2-0 after hammering Siren and Spooner, is coached by Tom Sauve. The Sauve name is known to local sports fans from the Upper St. Croix Valley Conference days who remember when Brad Sauve, Tom’s dad, starred for Amery in basketball and baseball back in the 1970s.

John Ryan THE SPORTS

PAGE

Gandy rambler Yes, that was local silent sports icon Daniel Johnson who gave himself a workout on the Gandy Dancer Trail last Sunday, Dec. 4, after the Saturday snowfall. But if you’re assuming the Wissport racing veteran was on snowshoes or cross-country skis, guess again. Instead,

Better sound Local radio personality Kurt Mayer is employing a new technological wrinkle in his basketball broadcasts this winter.

Listeners are noticing a more clear and crisp FM-quality sound thanks to Mayer’s innovation.

Budding broadcaster?

That’s 2011 Frederic grad and ex-FHS Viking hoop mainstay Joe Draxler working the camera for the Lakeland closedcircuit TV rebroadcast of Frederic Viking home games.

READ LEADER SPORTS LEADER SPORTS SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL Team Frederic Vikings Grantsburg Pirates Siren Dragons Luck Cardinals St. Croix Falls Saints Unity Eagles Webster Tigers

Standings

Conf.

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Scores Thursday, December 1 Cameron 67, St. Croix Falls 40 Frederic 53, Clear Lake 22 Friday, December 2 Luck 56, Bruce 36 Grantsburg 74, Shell Lake 17 Somerset 60, Unity 47 Tuesday, December 6 Grantsburg 57, Frederic 32 Webster 30, Luck 28 Siren 58, Unity 46 Upcoming Friday, December 9 7:30 p.m. Siren at Frederic Luck at Grantsburg Unity at St. Croix Falls Somerset at Webster Tuesday, December 13 7:30 p.m. Cumberland at Luck Grantsburg at Siren Frederic at Unity Thursday, December 15 7:30 p.m. Braham, Minn. at Grantsburg

BOYS HOCKEY

Upcoming Thursday, December 8 5 p.m.

Shell Lake/Spring Valley at Unity Saturday, December 10 8 a.m.

St. Croix Falls at Wisconsin Dells 10 a.m.

LFG at Barron Tuesday, December 13 5 p.m.

Unity at Cameron 7 p.m.

LFG at Glenwood City Thursday, December 15 7 p.m.

LFG at St. Croix Falls Unity at Turtle Lake

At the next level Three local young men have taken their basketball skills to the college level for the 2011-12 season and beyond. Cole Mortel and Alec Mortel of Luck are logging significant minutes for St. Scholastica. Meanwhile, former Webster great Austin Elliott is playing for St. Norbert’s.

Clayton’s Tyler Ketz, who led the Bears to consecutive state tourney appearances in 2010 and 2011 is currently playing well for Ripon College. Ripon, incidentally, is where Frederic boys coach Ryan Lind played college hoops.

Long time coming Someone forgot to tell coach Troy Wink and his Frederic girls that they were “supposed to” lose to Clayton. A cursory search through the records shows that the Viking girls comfortable win over the Bears last Thursday, Dec. 1, was their first over the Clayton gals in many a year.

Old-timer connection Local graybeards and historians are well aware that the Frederic boys made it to the single-class state basketball tournament back in 1964. Somewhat coinci-

Thursday boys/continued Grantsburg scored 23 points in the first quarter and led 39-5 at the half, with Nolan Hanson putting up 14 points, Daniel Biorn and David Ohnstad each had 13 points, Brady Thompson added 12 and Seth Coy had 10. Zack Arnold also added eight points, and Connor Myers and Daniel Larsen each had two.

The Pirates shot 53 percent from the charity stripe going 10 for 19, and added six 3-pointers to the scoring mix. – Marty Seeger

GIRLS BASKETBALL Overall 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-1 0-1 0-2 0-1

Standings Conf.

Overall WSFLG Blizzard 0-0-0 3-0-0 Scores Tuesday, December 6 Blizzard 7, Amery 1 Upcoming Friday, December 9 8 p.m.

Blizzard vs. Legacy, Minn., at Blaine Tuesday, December 13 7 p.m.

Moose Lake, Minn., at Grantsburg

WRESTLING

S

Team Frederic Vikings Grantsburg Pirates St. Croix Falls Saints Siren Dragons Unity Eagles Webster Tigers Luck Cardinals

Standings

Conf.

0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

Scores Thursday, December 1 Frederic 51, Clayton 41 Unity 49, Turtle Lake 47 St. Croix Falls 45, Osceola 42 Friday, December 2 Siren 51, Clear Lake 39 Grantsburg 54, Winter 44 Monday, December 5 Clayton 36, Unity 31 Tuesday, December 6 Chetek-Weyerhaeuser 61, Luck 55 Upcoming Thursday, December 8 7:30 p.m. Webster at Northwestern Friday, December 9 6 p.m.

Siren at Frederic Luck at Grantsburg Unity at St. Croix Falls Tuesday, December 13 6 p.m.

Webster at St. Croix Falls Grantsburg at Siren Frederic at Unity Thursday, December 15 7:30 p.m. Rush City, Minn., at Frederic

Overall 2-0 1-0 1-0 1-1 1-2 0-1 0-1

GIRLS HOCKEY Standings

WSFLGUS Blizzard

Scores Friday, December 2 Silver Bay, Minn., 10, Blizzard 3 Saturday, December 3 Blizzard 12, Tomahawk 8 Tuesday, December 6 Cambridge, Minn., 7, Blizzard 6 Upcoming Friday, December 9 8:30 p.m. Blizzard at Black River Falls Saturday, December 10 12 p.m.

Blizzard at Onalaska Tuesday, December 13 7 p.m.

Blizzard at Moose Lake, Minn.

Thursday, December 15 7 p.m.

Blizzard at New Richmond

Overall 1-5-0

GYMNASTICS

Upcoming Friday, December 9 6:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Superior Saturday, December 10 11 a.m.

St. Croix Falls at Chippewa Falls

Visit www.wissports.net for local high school scores & stats

P O R T S dentally, it turns out that the assistant coach for the Bruce Red Raiders (who were playing at Luck last Friday) was Mike Loehnis who also played in that long ago ‘64 state tourney. A quick check of an old WIAA state tournament booklet reveals that Loehnis was the starting 6-9 center for the Eau Claire Memorial Old Abes in the 1964 classic.

No plans for hockey changes Despite all the talk on the street, insiders say that at this juncture of maturization the WIAA has no plans to move to a two-class state hockey tournament. So whether the local Blizzard is deemed to have an enrollment of 39, 339 or 1,039 they’ll still be playing the likes of Superior and New Richmond at playoff time.

(If they advance far enough.)

Four inches and counting Ice anglers such as Jim Sorenson (see above) are already starting to appear on area lakes. Diehards say that at Leader press time many of our local bodies of water are already sporting 4 to 5 inches of ice.

John Ryan may be reached at jmr202@yahoo.com.

Cameron 67, St. Croix Falls 40 CAMERON – The St. Croix Falls Saints boys basketball team lost its first game of the season to a solid Cameron squad on Thursday, Dec. 1, before jumping right into the conference season when they host Unity on Friday, Dec. 9.

The Saints fell behind early against the Comets, trailing 22-4 after the first quarter and 46-14 at the half. The Saints were led in scoring by Noah Casterton who had 12 points, followed by Rob Heilig, eight, Ben Clausen, seven, Nick Lunde and Cody Zelinski each had four, Erik Swenson had three and Andrew Erickson had two points. – Marty Seeger Unity elementary students hosted a pajama party during the Somerset versus Unity boys basketball game on Thursday, Dec. 1. They also took center court to lead the crowd in singing the national anthem. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Despite his admitted underpreparedness, the Prediction King nevertheless opened with a solid 10-4 record for his opening week of basketball predictions. The 71-percent success rate is just a shade below the 73percent mark, which he claimed for the 2010-11 season. “If I can make 71 percent while under the THE SWAMI duress of openingweek jitters and venison processing, I should be able to do even better this week without any excuses,” he said.

The Swami

PREDICTS

This week’s predictions: Girls games Northwestern 51, Webster 32 – The Tigers struggle.

Frederic 53, Siren 51 – The Vikes prevail in this one-hour, 40-minute foul-plagued affair.

St. Croix Falls 47, Unity 38 – Expect the Saints to make a serious run at the conference crown.

Luck 52, Grantsburg 42 – The Cards recover from Tuesday’s tough road loss.

Frederic 49, Unity 36 – The Vikes have averaged 15 wins per season in the past five years, and this year should be no exception.

Siren 50, Grantsburg 43 – Dragons win!

Boys games Somerset 49, Webster 44 – The Tigers falter when, after Tuesday’s stunning victory at Luck, “the Mind” and his minions relax in preparation for this nonconference battle.

Unity 53, St. Croix Falls 45 – The Eagles enter the 2011-12 win column.

Grantsburg 57, Luck 49 – Numerous experts are predicting a conference title for Grantsburg.

Siren 62, Frederic 43 – Numerous experts are predicting a conference title for Siren.

Cumberland 61, Luck 55 – The Beavers claim bragging rights in this year’s version of the long-standing nonconference matchup.

Unity 53, Frederic 49 – Two straight for UHS after an 0-3 start.

Siren 67, Grantsburg 63 – The Dragons control the tempo and prevail in their home gym.

The Swami answers all e-mails and can be reached at predictionking@yahoo.com.

O UTDOOR S

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

I N T E R! C O U N T Y L E A D E R

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

Snowy owls starting to show up in Wisconsin fair game target if they can locate one.

Injured owl rescued near Frederic recently

by Marty Seeger Leader staff writer FREDERIC – If you’re driving along the local countryside and see a large clump of snow that looks a little out of place, it may warrant a second glance. Chances are, it could be a snowy owl that has descended from the northern tundra, far above the tree line.

Dozens of snowy owls have been popping up all across the state of Wisconsin this winter, and have reached as far south as central Illinois according to Chris Cold, DNR raptor expert and wildlife educator.

Cold says that snowy owls can be seen in some areas of Wisconsin each year, but the snowy owl boom tends to occur every four years, coinciding with a natural, biological cycle that occurs with lemmings, a preferred food source of the snowy owl.

Lemmings resemble hamsters, and are larger than meadow mice. They’re also prolific breeders.

“Their production is so rampant that their numbers exceed the ability of the land to hold them,” Cold said, and when the lemmings eat just about all of the vegetation, their numbers crash. However, during the rodent boom, snowy owls too, tend to do quite well, producing lots of offspring. But while the rodent numbers are busy trying to recover, the nomadic snowy owl is forced to search out hunting grounds farther south.

“They’re looking for open areas that remind them of tundra, so you’ll see them out in agricultural lands, shallow marshes that are frozen over, hayfields, airports and frozen lakes sometimes,” said Cold.

Owl rescue near Frederic Micky Ovick, a lineman for Northwest Electric, was on his way home from work

This female snowy owl was rescued a couple of weeks ago. More snowy owls could descend from the tundra, into many areas of Wisconsin as they search for food. – Photo by Tamara Larson when he spotted a snowy owl about two According to Cold, the owl Ovick resweeks ago, just north of Frederic near the cued is likely a female, which tend to be Town of West Sweden. It was near the larger and have heavily marked plumage. road and an open pasture.

Males are almost entirely white.

“I thought it was pretty cool. It was right on the shoulder of the road and I Top predator took a picture, and then that picture didn’t Snowy owls are similar to the great turn out so then I got closer.” horned owl. They have powerful claws It was then that Ovick noticed the and a wingspan of up to 60 inches, which snowy had a broken wing. He wrapped gives them powerful flight ability. They the owl in his coat and brought it home. can also weigh up to 6 pounds, and are He called wildlife rehabilitator, Tamara very opportunistic feeders according to Larson, who helped get the bird trans- Cold. ported to the University of Minnesota’s “They’ll catch pigeons, pheasants, just raptor center, where the bird is likely still about anything they can subdue. If there’s recuperating. If it is rehabilitated back to a muskrat on the ice, they’ll take that too,” health, Ovick said they will try to release Cold said, adding that even something it back to the area where it was found. near the size of a turkey could become a

Still no owl? Keep looking If you’ve been fortunate enough to have seen a snowy owl before, that same area might be a good place to start looking if you want to see one this winter. If not Cold says that observing fence posts along the road, or even utility power posts is another great place to look.

But he also says that for much of the day, snowy owls prefer to be on the ground, so looking for that odd clump of snow in the field might be your best bet.

In the late afternoon, at around 4 p.m., owls might start heading back to the utility poles or fence posts, getting back into hunting mode.

“Just before this big snow hit us, they were like lightbulbs out there … you could easily find them, but now it’s difficult,” Cold said.

Snowy owls will most likely retreat back to the tundra this spring. However, some birds may still be present briefly after the thaw, which would make them easier to locate again.

The snowy owl rescued by Micky Ovick, was held overnight before being transferred to the University of Minnesota Raptor Center.

If the owl can be rehabilitated it will be released back into the wild. – Photo by Micky Ovick

Spring turkey, black bear permit application deadline is Dec. 10 MADISON – Wild turkey and black bear hunters have until close of business on Saturday, Dec. 10, to apply for available permits for the 2012 Wisconsin spring turkey hunting season and the 2012 black bear hunting season.

Preliminary permit levels for the spring turkey season are set at 225,420 total permits (not including Fort McCoy or state park and disabled-only hunting zones).

This is the same number of permits available to hunters during the 2011 spring season. Final permit levels are not set until after the close of the fall turkey season but

First buck

Joey Formanek, 11 year old son of Dave and Robyn Formanek, shot this nice 10 point buck in Falun on Friday, Nov. 25.

This was Joey's first deer. – Photo coursubmitted

will likely not differ significantly from preliminary permit levels.

Total permits available for the 2012 black bear hunt has not yet been determined.

The Natural Resources Board will take up the proposed black bear quotas and harvest permit levels at its January 2012 meeting.

Applications for each of these two permit drawings cost $3 and may be purchased through the Online Licensing Center on the DNR Web site and at all authorized license agents and DNR Service Centers. Applications postmarked after the Dec. 10 deadline, or those which have been filled out incorrectly, will not be considered for the drawings.

2012 turkey season extended to seven days The 2012 spring turkey season officially begins with the April 7-8 spring turkey youth hunt. The regular turkey season begins on the following Wednesday, April 11.

New in 2012, the spring season will consist of six seven-day time periods, ending on May 22. Previously, the season was six five-day periods. The drawing for permits will take place in late January or early February. Successful permit applicants can expect to receive a postcard by mid-February. All applicants may also check their drawing status online through the Online Licensing Center on the DNR Web site starting in mid-February.

With the start of the 2012 license year on March 7, 2012, permit winners may then purchase their required 2012 spring turkey license ($15 for Wisconsin residents and $60 for nonresidents and 2012 wild turkey

stamp ($5.25). The permit (also known as a carcass tag) will be printed at the time of purchase. Conservation Patrons and Senior Citizen Recreation Card holders do not need to purchase a turkey license or stamp when they go to pick up their permit.

Permits remaining after the initial drawing for the 2012 spring turkey season will be available for purchase in late March, at a date to be specified later.

All turkey hunters are reminded that inperson turkey registration stations are no longer available in Wisconsin. Turkeys can be registered either via telephone at 888HUNT-WIS or online through the Wild Turkey Hunting in Wisconsin page of the DNR Web site. These registration systems were in implemented with the fall 2011 turkey season and offer hunters a more convenient method of registering their turkey.

Special turkey hunts for hunters with disabilities Applications for people who want to conduct or participate in a spring wild turkey hunt for people with disabilities on private land must also be submitted by Dec. 10 to the local DNR wildlife biologist or department office for the county within which the hunt will take place. Please note that any hunter applicant who applies for a disabled turkey hunt on private lands using the above forms may not also apply for a permit through the regular spring turkey drawing.

Black bear The 2012 black bear season begins Sept.

5, the first Wednesday after Labor Day,

and runs through Oct. 9. The opening week of Wisconsin’s bear hunting season alternates – allowing those who hunt over bait to go first one year and those who hunt with the aid of dogs to go first the next year. In 2012, hunters who hunt over bait will go first in all management zones; the season for those hunting with the aid of dogs or using other methods will open Sept. 12 in zones that allow hunting with the aid of dogs (A, B and D). In Zone C, where hunting with dogs is prohibited, hunters may hunt bear over bait or by other means not using dogs from Sep. 5, through Oct. 9.

There were 27,793 hunters who submitted applications for the 9,005 Class A bear harvest permits available for the 2011 bear season. A total of 103,853 hunters applied for either a harvest permit or a preference point in 2011.

Applicants currently need to have collected between four and nine preference points in order to successfully draw a bear harvest permit. Hunters can check their preference point status in one of three ways: by visiting the Online Licensing Center, by calling Customer Service and Licensing toll-free at 888-WDNRINFo (888-936-7463), or by contacting a local DNR Service Center.

The bear drawing is held each year in early February. Drawing winners will be notified via U.S. mail shortly after the drawing. Drawing winners may purchase their 2012 Class A bear license beginning March 7, the start of the 2012 license year.

– from www.dnr.wi.gov

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

Now hear this! Valley Hearing Concepts moves to Centuria On hearing loss, new technology, and yes, selective spousal hearing loss

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer CENTURIA – There’s a new business in the lower level of Valley Eye Clinic in Centuria, and it just so happens to fit the theme.

Jim Sopland, BC - HIS, has opened a branch clinic of his Valley Hearing Concepts, adding to his offices in Stillwater and Roseville, Minn. Licensed and certified in both states, Sopland has been in the hearing business since 1999 with his own businesses since 2003. He is a board-certified hearing instrument specialist, one of the few such independent specialists in the region.

Sopland took some time to explain not only what he does, but some of the issues and causes behind hearing loss and how hearing aids and listening devices have improved dramatically in recent years.

“It really is amazing how much better they are today,” he said.

Sopland noted that some of the advances showing up in other technology over the last few years have become standard fare in hearing instruments, from compact sizes, to clarity and even to the cell-phone-style Bluetooth tech that allows people to listen to movies right over their hearing aids.

“And today’s hearing aids don’t whistle!” he said, outlining how many people with hearing loss just accept the old standards, bulkiness and technology, and may have very old hearing aids, not realizing how far the technology has advanced.

“When I started in this business in 1999, the usual cost was about $5,000. Today, the price is about the same, but the technology is so much better,” he said, noting how many of the units he replaces are virtual “dinosaurs” in comparison, “ I try to

Jim Sopland, BC-HIS, is the man behind Valley Hearing Concepts in Centuria. – Photos by Greg Marsten keep prices low enough to help my patients.”

All of his instruments come with a 60day trial, and he said, “and I never make a promise I can’t keep.”

Sopland said that hearing aid life has also advanced, and while they used to last about five to seven years, new units can be expected to last 10 to 20 years.

“Lots of folks may never need another set,” he said.

He also noted how the baby boomer generation is starting to pay the price for being one of the first generations with truly loud stereo systems.

“That’s true, rock and rollers, they’re the ones who suffered, many of them ... didn’t protect their hearing along the way,” he said, stating that recent generations are

Milk prices could decline in 2012

by Steve Roisum Wisconsin Public Radio STATEWIDE – A Wisconsin dairy expert says dairy farmers will likely see less profit for their milk in 2012.

In 2011, milk market prices at times surpassed $20 for every 100 pounds of milk.

Those were some of the best monthly prices in the last two years, thanks in part to a high demand for milk exports. But in 2012, UW-Extension professor emeritus Bob Cropp says prices could drop by more than $2 for every hundred pounds. He says one reason for that is there’s more

milk being produced in other countries.

For example, Cropp says New Zealand is bouncing back after a rough year for its farmers, “They count for close to 40 percent of world dairy trade. And when they experienced weather-related problems their production was not up last year, that opened up opportunities for U.S. exports.”

Cropp says other factors that could help drive down milk market prices in 2012 include higher-than-needed production and substantial feed costs.

RIGHT: Jim Sopland showed how modern hearing instruments are nearly invisible once installed. The so-called BTE (behind the ear) hearing aids have advanced in size and technology to amazing standards. also going to pay the price for iPods and loud headphones. Other things that can contribute to various degrees of hearing loss including loud noises like firearms, lawn equipment and more, but that time of exposure to those loud noises can also affect hearing loss. “Genetics also play a role,” he added.

Sopland suggested people take care of their ears, from using foam earplugs to advanced headphones that use compression, microphones and even some of the hunting-specific “game ears” that suppress firearms concussions. “They all really do help,” he said.

Valley Hearing Concepts is also mobile, as well, in part because audiometer technology is also much smaller and now computer-based, meaning he can fit an entire testing system into a briefcase.

“Probably half my business is in the home,” he said, noting that he can even visit senior living complexes and that his initial hearing tests are free. He also said that approximately 65 percent of people over age 65 need hearing assistance, “and the percentage gets even higher as age rises.”

The shrinking size and advanced technology in the devices means the attitudes

are starting to change, that people are beginning to realize “the stigma of wearing a hearing aid ... just isn’t there any more,” he said.

Sopland said he got into the hearing instrument business in part because of the effect it has on people’s lives, how they are often amazed at what they’ve been missing all these years. “It’s truly amazing how much hearing loss you can have and a hearing aid will help.”

But Sopland also noted that “part of my job is teaching people how to communicate with hearing loss,” that people can often seem to suffer from “selective hearing loss,” where they don’t seem to hear what their wife or husband is saying, leading to stress and even marital troubles.

“It’s all about paying attention and getting their attention first,” he said. “And I like to keep the upset spouses at a minimum!”

Valley Hearing Concepts is located at 416 Superior Ave. in Centuria. Hours are by appointment at 715-646-1426, or on the Web at www.valleyhearingconcepts.com.

Burnett County criminal court Shawn P. Mattson, 40, Minong, possession of marijuana, $330.50.

Gregory W. Nelson, 28, Siren, operate without license, $200.50.

James Pijanowski, 47, Danbury, disorderly conduct, $330.50.

Thomas J. Polski, 21, Danbury, resisting or obstructing an officer, one-year probation, obtain GED, alcohol assessment, $243.00.

Chad C. Ritter, 35, Mounds View, Minn., theft, restitution to be determined, $330.50.

Burnett County sheriff’s report Arrests and citations Dec. 1: Charles R. Bentley, 20, Webster, was arrested on a Burnett County warrant.

Other incidents Dec. 2: Karl Seidel, Siren, reported his mailbox damaged.

Mark Hayman, Siren, also reported his mailbox damaged.

Both men live on CTH B. Dec. 2: Ronald F. Dietz, Dan-

bury, reported damage to an electric meter and gas taken from a vehicle.

Dec. 3: A Hunters Inn employee reported assorted cash missing from the establishment.

Burnett County warrants Kurt J. Matrious, 41, Danbury, warrant - failure to appear, Dec. 1.

Lester J. Merrill, 34, Luck, warrant - failure to appear, Dec. 1.

Thomas P. Michaelson, 57, Spooner, warrant - failure to appear, Nov. 30.

Jordan W. Sargent, 18, Siren, warrant - failure to appear, Nov. 30.

Christopher A. Soltau, 24, Danbury, failure to pay fines, Nov. 30.

Evan A. Stern, 27, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Kasey D. Weber, 25, Webster, speeding, $175.30.

Nov. 20: Richard C. Anderson, 70, Baldwin, was northbound on Hwy. 35 in Siren Village pulling a trailer. He attempted a left-hand turn onto Tewalt Road when he was rearended by Murilyn L. Kilmer, 74, Milltown. No injuries were reported. Kilmer received one citation.

Nov. 26: Vincent D. Nasman, 21, Grantsburg, was arrested for OWI and nonregistration of vehi-

cle.

Nov. 28: David M. Conrow, 17, Siren, was arrested for possession of THC, possession THC with intent to sell, possession of dangerous weapon on school grounds and minor possession of tobacco. Christopher A. Hanson, 21, Siren, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, and Camay S. Ellingson, 17, Siren, was arrested for possession of THC.

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Zachary R. Holmstrom, 20, Danbury, failure to pay fines, Nov. 30.

Danielle S. Lowe, 22, Luck, warrant - failure to appear, Dec. 1.

Magan M. Martinson, 25, Webster, warrant - failure to appear, Nov. 30.

Denise K. Sabar, 47, Antioch, Ill., OWI, $867.50, license revoked eight months, alcohol assessment.

Aaron D. Simmons, 22, Webster, disorderly conduct, $330.50.

612-280-7581

5-6a,d 16-17L

Kristopher C. Hicks, 21, Webster, operating without proof of insurance, $10.00.

Samantha C. Hogle, 21, Webster, underage drinking, license suspended one year, alcohol assessment, $515.50; disorderly conduct, $330.50.

Amanda R. Johnson, 21, Osceola, disorderly conduct, $389.50.

Alexander Kotlov, 35, Chetek, improper stop in hwy. area $175.30.

S. A. Lundeen Brooks, 17, Frederic, damage natural resources, $200.50.

550450 4-7a,dp 15-18Lp

Grace M. Avelar, 51, sell alcohol to underage person, $452.50.

Brian L. Bearheart, 17, Webster, disorderly conduct, probation revoked, 90-day jail sentence. $163.00.

James P. Farrand, 46, Sturgeon Lake, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Ricky J. Garbow, 22, Siren, disorderly conduct, $330.50.

Kate M. Haaf, 63, Webster, disorderly conduct, sentence withheld, one-year probation, no abusive contact with victim, continue counseling, $243.00.

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

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

(Nov. 23, 30, Dec. 7) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WARREN NORLANDER Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration

MATTHEW KRATOCHVIL a/k/a MATTHEW KRATOCHVIL and PENNY KRATOCHVIL, husband and wife, Defendants.

Case No. 11-CV-614 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000.00 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

Case No. 11 PR 79

550274 WNAXLP

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth Dec. 30, 1922, and date of death Oct. 30, 2011, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 121 W. State St., Dresser, WI 54009.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is February 27, 2012.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar November 16, 2011 Constance L. Minar 1019 210 St. Dresser, WI 54009 715-755-2705

550326 WNAXLP

(Nov. 23, 30, Dec. 7) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FRANK J. WERNER JR., deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Informal Administration) Case No. 11 PR 80 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth October 11, 1948, and date of death October 4, 2011, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 1356 Northpoint Rd., St. Croix Falls, Wis. 54024.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is February 27, 2012.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Probate Office, 1005 W. Main Street, Room 500, Balsam Lake, Wis. 54810 Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar November 17, 2011 John C. Werner 1356 Northpoint Road St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-9751

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on November 16, 2011, in the amount of $241,417.21, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 26, 2012, 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 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: Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 West Main St., Balsam Lake, Wis. DESCRIPTION: A parcel of land in Outlot Eighteen (18) of the Outlot Plat of the Village of Osceola described as follows, to-wit: Commencing at a point on the North line of Jefferson Street 40 feet Southeasterly of the Southeast corner of Outlot 19 of the Outlot Plat of the Village of Osceola; thence North 36 degrees 00’ East a distance of 277.0 feet; thence South 62 degrees 41’ East 151.7 feet; thence Southwesterly a distance of 290 feet to a point on the North line of Jefferson Street which is 153 feet Southeasterly of the point of beginning; thence Northwesterly along the North line of Jeffereson Street a distance of 153 feet to the point of beginning; Except as described in Volume 239 of Deeds at page 628, as document No. 302655, all in the Village of Osceola, Polk County, Wis. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 305 9th Avenue, Village of Osceola.

TAX KEY NO.: 165-00363-0000 Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County, WI O’DESS AND ASSOCIATES, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 1414 Underwood Avenue Suite 403 Wauwatosa, WI 53213 414-727-1591

O’Dess and Associates, S.C., is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. If you have previsouly received a Chapter 7 Discharge in Bankruptcy, this correspondence should not be construced as an attempt to collect a debt.

NOTICE

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Agenda to be posted: 1. Eureka Town Hall 2. Eureka Town Garage 3. Eureka Clerk’s Office Agenda may also be posted on town Web site www.townofeureka.org

NOTICE

NOTICE TOWN OF LUCK BOARD MEETING Tues., Dec. 13, 7 p.m.

Town Hall

Agenda: 1. Reading of the minutes 2. Treasurer’s report 3. Review and pay bills 4. Appoint election board and act on wage 5. Act on checklist of certified survey map 6. Patrolman’s report Any additional agenda will be posted in the Luck Town Hall and clerk’s office.

551111 16L Lloyd Nelson, Clerk (Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY ONEWEST BANK, FSB Plaintiff Vs JOLEEN RENEE FUNK, et al Defendant(s) Case Number: 11 CV 464 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on September 16, 2011, in the amount of $369,215.39, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 3, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wis. DESCRIPTION: Lot Two (2) of Certified Survey Map 3231 recorded in volume 14 page 253 as Document No. 604680 and further located in part of the Southwest quarter of the Southwest quarter of Section 32, Township 33 North, Range 18 West, together with a 30 foot wide access easement as described in Volume 829, Page 739 of Deeds, Town of Osceola, Polk County, Wis. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2274 60th Avenue, Osceola, WI 54020.

TAX KEY NO.: 042-00805-0120.

Dated this 25th day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Dustin A. McMahon State Bar #1086857 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 279097

The Regular Monthly Board Meeting For The Town Of McKinley Will Be On Tues., Dec. 13, 2011, At 7 p.m.

Agenda will be posted at the Town Hall.

Town of McKinley Deborah Grover, Clerk

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(Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4, 11) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY ROYAL CREDIT UNION Plaintiff, vs.

KAREN S. WALKER JOHN DOE WALKER, unknown spouse of Karen S. Walker CARRIE C. SMITH Defendants Case No. 11CV301 Case Code: 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of a judgment of foreclosure and sale rendered in the above-entitled action on July 19, 2011, in the amount of $18,797.78, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell at public auction at the front entrance of the Polk County Courthouse in the City of Balsam Lake, in said County, on the 19th day of January, 2012, at 10:00 a.m., the real estate and mortgaged premises directed by the judgment to be sold, therein described as follows: That part of Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (NE1/4 SE1/4 Section Thirty (30) Township Thirty-Four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West described as follows: Commencing at a point 719 feet West of the 1/4 Post between Sections 29 and 30, Township 34, Range 18, then South parallel with the West Line of land described in Volume 80 of Deeds, Page 173 to the center of highway, then Westerly along center of highway 180 feet, then North to North Line of said 40, then East to beginning, also beginning at a point 719 feet West and 154 feet South of the 1/4 post between Sections 29 and 30, then South to center of highway leading to cemetery, then East and North along the center of said highway to a point due East to point of beginning, then West to beginning.

Which mortgage was recorded in the Register of Deeds Office for Polk County, Wisconsin, on July 18, 2005, in Volume 974, at Page 507, as Document #702072.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 660 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin TERMS OF SALE: Cash DOWN PAYMENT: A deposit of 10% of sale price to be deposited in cash or by certified check with the Sheriff at the time of sale; balance to be paid by cash or certified check upon confirmation of sale.

Dated this 30th day of November, 2011. /s/Peter M. Johnson Polk County Sheriff Attorney Christine A. Gimber WELD, RILEY, PRENN & RICCI, S.C. 3624 Oakwood Hills Parkway P.O. Box 1030 Eau Claire, WI 54702-1030 715-839-7786 Attorneys for Plaintiff This is an attempt to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Monthly Board Meeting Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011, 7 p.m. at Eureka Town Hall

The December meeting of the Village Board of Siren will be held Thurs., December 8, 2011, at 2 p.m. at the Village Hall.

Agenda posted.

Ann Peterson 550796 Clerk-Treasurer 16L

INVITATION TO COMMENT ON A PROPOSED TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY

All interested persons are invited to comment on any potential effects that may be caused to historic properties, if any such properties are or may be located at or near the site, from a proposed 300’ guyed communications tower with associated equipment to be constructed south of Daniels 70 in the Town of Daniels, Burnett County, Wisconsin (approx. 45-46-59.30N, 92-25-50.79W). Comments regarding historic properties may be submitted to the following contact as follows: Kate Lund, Edge Consulting Engineers, Inc., 624 Water Street, Prairie du Sac, WI 53578, Phone: 608-644-1449, e-mail: klund@edgeconsult.com. This notice is provided in accordance with the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, 47 C.F.R. Part 1, Appendices B and C. 550862 16Lp WNAXLP

BONE LAKE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

Commissioners Meeting Georgetown Hall Sat., December 10, 2011 9 a.m.

AGENDA Call meeting to order.

Reading of minutes Treasurer’s report Review of Lake Management Plan Committee reports Old business New business 551126 16L Adjournment (Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY BAC HOME LOANS SERVICING, L.P. Plaintiff vs.

ANGELA J. LUCAS, et al Defendant(s) NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Case Number: 10 CV 428 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on July 23, 2010, in the amount of $100,798.15, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 18, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wis. DESCRIPTION: The south 100 feet of lot “V,” block 17, of the first addition to the Village of Frederic, Polk County, Wisconsin, less a strip of land 10 feet wide off the west side of said lot, which is set aside of an alley.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 105 Birch Street East, Frederic, WI 54837.

TAX KEY NO.: 126-00251-0000.

Dated this 18th day of November, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Chaz M. Rodriguez State Bar #1063071 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 280158

(Nov. 9, 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, vs.

JASON L. JOHNSON and JENNIFER R. RIVARDJOHNSON, and ST. CROIX REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER, Defendants.

Case No. 11 CV 185 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on June 20, 2011, in the amount of $90,421.47, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, December 28, 2011, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., TERMS OF SALE: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION: Lots 13, 14, 15 and 16, Block 2, Setzer’s Addition, Town of West Sweden, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 048-00901-0000, 04800902-0000, 0489-009030000 & 048-00904-0000.

STREET ADDRESS: 3187 Lake Street North, Frederic, Wis. 54837.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wis., this 25th day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

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551100 16L 6a

Agenda: Verification of Posting Clerk’s Minutes Treasurer’s Report Resident Issues Road Items Angeline Ave. Decision Pay Bills and look at correspondence Coffee & Cookies Linda Terrian, Clerk

DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS, as Trustee for Saxon Asset Securities Trust 2005-4 by: Saxon Mortgage Services, its attorney-in-fact, Plaintiff, vs.

551017

The Monthly Board Meeting For The Town Of LaFollette Will Be Held At The LaFollette Town Hall On Mon., Dec. 12, 2011, At 7:30 p.m.

(Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4, 11) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

TOWN OF EUREKA

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TOWN OF LAFOLLETTE MONTHLY MEETING

16L 6a

550412 15-16L 5-6a,d

The Comprehensive Planning Committee will meet monthly in 2011. Each scheduled meeting will be on the second Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the township hall.

For Additional Information, Call: Perry Karl 715-653-4247 Brad Olson 715-327-4614

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NOTICE

CLAM FALLS TOWNSHIP

550852

Virgil Hansen, Clerk

Dorothy C. Knutson, 96, Lindstrom, Minn., died Nov. 13, 2011.

Patrick W. Struve, 81, Balsam Lake, died Nov. 13, 2011.

Harry J. Little, 85, Alamo, Texas, died Nov. 17, 2011.

Notices

NOTICE

NOTICE

Burnett County Nancy J. Babcock, 70, Town of Swiss, died Nov. 13, 2011.

Polk County William L. Zelinski, 80, Turtle Lake, died Nov. 12, 2011.

Notices

Monthly Board Meeting Monday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m.

Milltown Fire Hall

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Virgil Hansen, Clerk

TOWN OF MILLTOWN

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Mon., Dec. 12, 2011, 6:30 p.m.

Milltown Fire Hall

Sarah L. Sawyer, Milltown, and Scott P. Anderson, Elk River, Minn., issued Dec. 1, 2011.

NOTICE

Plan Committee Meeting

Burnett and Polk Co. deaths

Polk County marriages

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Notices

TOWN OF MILLTOWN

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

Employment Opportunities/Notices

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NOTICE

TOWN OF DANIELS MONTHLY BOARD MEETING The Monthly Town Board Meeting Will Be Held Tues., Dec. 13, 2011, At 7 p.m., At Resident Of Treasurer Emma Kolander Township Residents Invited AGENDA: Minutes & treasurer report; nominate election inspectors; contract for UDC inspector; budget amendment; payment of town bills and any other business properly brought before the board. Agenda will be posted at Daniels Town Hall 24 hours before meeting. Visit Daniels Township Web site - www.townofdaniels.org.

550998 16L Ellen M. Ellis, Clerk

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WEBSTER

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY ANCHORBANK, FSB Vs

Plaintiff

CYNTHIA K. ANDERSON, et al Defendant(s) Case Number: 11 CV 205 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 30, 2011, in the amount of $171,925.93, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 4, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: Parcel 1: Lot 11 of Certified Survey Map No. 717, recorded in Volume 3 of Certified Survey Maps on page 209 as Document Number 399750, located in the Southeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 33, Township 34 North of Range 18 West, Town of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wis. Parcel 2: Together with an easement along the 66-ft. access easement as shown on Certified Survey Map No. 379 recorded in Volume 2, page 108.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1274 211th Street, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

TAX KEY NO.: 044-00891-1100.

Dated this 11th day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Russell J. Karnes State Bar #1054982 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 278407

(Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY LITTON LOAN SERVICING, LLC AS SERVICER FOR THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATE HOLDERS OF CWALT, INC. ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 200319CB Plaintiff Vs. ALLAN L. OPITZ, et al.

Defendant(s) NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Case Number: 09 CV 917 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on Feb. 12, 2010, in the amount of $120,398.51 the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: Jan. 5, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin DESCRIPTION: PARCEL 1: LOT 9, PLAT OF JENSON’S BUTTERNUT ACRES, VILLAGE OF LUCK, POLK COUNTY, WIS. PARCEL 2: A NONEXCLUSIVE EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS AND LAKE ACCESS OVER THE EAST 24 FEET OF LOT 23, PLAT OF JENSON’S BUTTERNUT ACRES. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1514 Lake Avenue, Luck, WI 54853 TAX KEY: 146-00413-0000 Dated this 7th day of November, 2011 Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Scott D. Nabke State Bar #1037979 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale.

Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 279692 549635 WNAXLP

ADVERTISEMENT FOR QUOTES VILLAGE OF LUCK

POLK COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY

Notice is hereby given that the Village of Luck is receiving sealed quotes for the purchase of a wheel loader. Wheel loader specification requirements are available at the Luck Village Hall, 401 Main Street, Luck, WI from 8 - 4 M - F. Sealed quotes can be dropped off or mailed to 401 Main Street, Luck, WI 54853 and must be received by 4 p.m., December 21, 2011. Bids will be opened publicly at the Public Services committee meeting at 5:30 p.m.

551155 WNAXLP 16L The village reserves the right to refuse any and all quotes.

Agenda: I. Call to Order. II. Minutes. III. Financial Reports. IV. Operations Report. V. Unfinished Business. VI. New Business. VIII. Adjourn.

550922 16L

NOTICE OF ANNUAL STOCKHOLDERS MEETING

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION Frederic, Wisconsin

REGULAR ROUTE SCHOOL BUS DRIVER NEEDED

at 10:30 a.m. with dinner being served at 11:30 a.m.

The School District of Webster does not discriminate in education or employment based on sex, race, color, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital or 551004 16-17L 6-7a parental status, sexual orientation or disability.

Frederic, Wisconsin Two directors will be elected, reading of the annual report, and such other business transacted as may properly come before the meeting.

Janet Oachs, secretary 550621 15-16L

A CDL with school bus endorsement is required to drive a school bus.

For more information, please contact the Transportation Director, Brian Sears, at 715-866-4281 or bsears@webster.k12.wi.us. Applications are available at the Administration Office or online at www.webster.k12.wi.us.

Deadline is December 23, 2011.

(Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21)

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(Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY ANCHORBANK, FSB Plaintiff Vs DONALD R. JOHNSON, et al Defendant(s) Case Number: 10 CV 938 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 30, 2011, in the amount of $82,911.13, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 4, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: Part of Government Lot 5, Section 3, Township 34 North, Range 17 West, and Lot 1 of Plat of Pine Crest Park, described as follows: a strip of land of uniform width of 60 feet lying West of and adjacent to the East line of said Lot 1 of Plat of Pine Crest Park and lying between the shores of Balsam Lake and the South boundary of said Plat of Pine Crest Park, Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wis.; and a part of Government Lot 5, Section 3, Township 34 North, Range 17 West, and of Lot 1, Plat of Pine Crest Park, as particularly described In Volume 402 of Records, page 529 Document Number 382066.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 106 Pine Crest Road, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

TAX KEY NO.: 106-00030-0000.

Dated this 11th day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Russell J. Karnes State Bar #1054982 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 278406

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(Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY ANCHORBANK, FSB Plaintiff Vs JEREMIAH L. GAMACHE, et al Defendant(s) Case Number: 11 CV 217 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 28, 2011, in the amount of $212,202.86, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 4, 2012, at 10 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.

PLACE: Polk County Justice Center at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: Lot 2 of Certified Survey Map No. 4584 recorded in Volume 20 of Certified Survey Maps, Page 136, Document No. 685447, located in part of the Northwest 1/4 of Northeast 1/4, Section 21, Township 32 North, Range 17 West, Town of Alden, Polk County, Wisconsin. Together with and subject to that certain 66 foot wide access and utility easement area as shown on said Certified Survey Map No. 4584 and on Certified Survey Map No. 4307, said easement rights to be appurtenant to the real estate conveyed herein and in common with others using said easement area for the declared purposes.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 298 155th St., Amery, WI 54001.

TAX KEY NO.: 002-00543-0200.

Dated this 11th day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County Annie M. Schumacher State Bar #1074726 Blommer Peterman, S.C. 165 Bishops Way Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Please go to www.blommerpeterman.com to obtain the bid for this sale. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. 278405

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(Nov. 16, 23, 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY FIRST NATIONAL BANK & TRUST P.O. Box 32 Rice Lake, WI 54868 Plaintiff Vs. TYREL DARYL SACKETT a/k/a TYREL D. SACKETT 21 210th Ave. Comstock, WI 54826 Defendant NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 10 CV 760 Classification No.: 30404 Under and by virtue of Judgment for Foreclosure in the above-entitled action issued by the Court aforesaid on the 30th day of December, 2010, I am commanded to sell the following described property: Lot 2 of Certified Survey Map No. 3178, in Volume 14, Page 200, being located in part of the Southwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, and in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, Section 13, Township 35 North, Range 15 West, (in the Town of Johnstown), Polk County, Wisconsin.

Tax Key No.: 028-00317-0000.

Property Address: 21 210th Ave., Comstock, WI 54826.

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on the 5th day of January, 2012, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., on that day at the front entrance of the Polk County Courthouse located in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, I will sell the above-described real estate to satisfy said judgment with interest and with costs to the highest bidder for cash.

Terms of Sale: 1. This is a cash sale. A certified check or bank check in the amount of 10% of the amount bid must accompany the bid, with the balance due upon confirmation of the sale by the court.

2. Sale is subject to all unpaid real estate taxes and special assessments.

3. Purchaser shall pay any Wisconsin real estate transfer fee.

4. The property is being sold in and “as is” basis without warranties or representations of any kind.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 7th day of November, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Drafted by: Andrew S. Lawton Attorney at Law P.O. Box 119 Spooner, WI 54801 Ph. 715-635-7525 State Bar No.: 1000824

(Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff vs.

TERRY MICHAEL MORTON, et al.

Defendants Case No. 11 CV 202 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 21, 2011, in the amount of $801,756.66, the Polk County Sheriff will sell the premises described below at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: January 11, 2012, 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, encumbrances, and payment of applicable transfer taxes.

PLACE: In the lobby of the Polk County Justice Center, located at 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wis. 54810.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: That part of Government Lot 6, of Section 35, Township 35 North of Range 17 West, described as follows: Commencing at a stone monument 1,003.9 feet South and 50.0 feet East of the meander corner on the shore of Balsam Lake on the West line of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 35, Township 35 North, Range 17 West; thence East 334.0 feet to the meander line on the shore of Balsam Lake; thence along said shore meander North 8 deg. 00’ East 143.0 feet; thence North 15 deg. 25’ West 339.0 feet; thence South 200.0 feet to the place of beginning. Said land being in the Town of Milltown, County of Polk and State of Wis. ADDRESS: 1860 140th Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

TAX KEY NO: 040-01213-0000.

Dated this 31st day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson Polk County Sheriff Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Mark R. Cummisford State Bar #1034906 6508 South 27th Street, Ste. #6 Oak Creek, WI 53154 414-761-1700 Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC, is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

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www.the-leader.net

TO BE HELD

Thursday, December 8, 2011

HACKER’S LANES

Regular Monthly Meeting Thursday, December 15, 2011, at 9 a.m.

Shoreview Apartments, Balsam Lake

FOR SALE

BY SEALED BID

One 1999 small gas Ford Bus, odometer 150,838 miles, with one wheelchair lift. Seats 8 plus 1 wheelchair. Vehicle has had regular maintenance. No minimum bid. Vehicle available for on-site inspection at address below on Friday, December 16, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Questions may be directed to Verlin McKenzie at 715485-8757, leave message for return call.

Send bids to: Endeavors Adult Development Center, Inc. 101 150th Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 Envelope must be clearly marked “Sealed Bid.” Bids are due by 3:30 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2011.

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PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

POLK COUNTY POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

TOWN OF MEENON BOARD MEETING

Dept. Secretary/Records Clerk $16.68/hr.

Sheriff’s Office Full time 40 hrs./wk.

Deadline to apply: Dec. 21, 2011, at 3 p.m.

YOU MUST COMPLETE A POLK CO. EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. For application, complete position requirements and details please visit our Web site at www.co.polk.wi.us, Job Opportunities, or in person at 100 Polk Co. Plaza, #229, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 or by calling 715-485-9176. Please, no faxed applications. AA/EEOC 551087

PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE OF DATE - The next meeting of the Meenon Town Board will be held on Monday, December 19, 2011, at 7 p.m.7 Agenda items to include: reports from the Clerk, Treasurer, Chairman and Supervisors, road report, Highway Ordinance, appointment of election workers for the 2012-2013 election cycle, discussion with James/Pam Brown regarding trees on their property, Stein Campground, Dog Control Officer, additional items for future agendas, pay bills and adjournment.

551091 16L 6a 7Suzanna M. Eytcheson, Meenon Town Clerk

16L

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LUCK NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTORS MEETING

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thence South 62˚ 56’ East, 346.50 feet and North 54˚ 05’ East, 493.80 feet from the point of beginning; thence South 54˚ 05’ West, 493.80 feet; thence North 62˚ 56’ West, 346.50 feet; thence South 07˚ 14’ West, 209.60 feet to the point of beginning.

Said land being in the Town of Osceola, Polk County, State of Wisconsin.

Parcel II: That part of Government Lots 3 and 4, Section 26, Township 33 North, Range 18 West, described as follows: Commencing at the Southwest corner of said Section 26; thence North 00˚ 14’ West, a distance of 1,139.60 feet along the West line of Government Lot 4; thence North 85˚ 52’ East, a distance of 22.90 feet; thence North 07˚ 14’ East, a distance of 209.60 feet to the point of beginning of the land to be described; thence South 62˚ 56’ East, a distance of 346.50 feet; thence North 54˚ 05’ East, a distance of 50.00 feet; thence North 69˚ 48’ 45” West, a distance of 371.89 feet to the point of beginning.

The Southerly line of the above-described parcel is the North line of the property described in Volume 319, Page 166, as recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, Polk County, Wisconsin. Said land being in the Town of Osceola, Polk County, State of Wis. ADDRESS: 1997 Dwight Lane, Dresser, WI 54009 TAX KEY: 042-00570-0000 That the judgment, sale, confirmation sale and conveyance are subject to the United States of America’s 120-day redemption rights pursuant to Title 28 USC 2410 (c).

Dated this 31st day of October, 2011.

Peter M. Johnson, Polk County Sheriff Cummisford, Acedvedo & Associates, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Mark R. Cummisford, State Bar #1034906 6508 South 27th Street, Suite #6 Oak Creek, WI 53154 414-761-1700 Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC, is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

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(Nov. 30, Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28, Jan. 4) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff vs.

RICHARD MUCKLE, et al.

Defendants Case No. 11 CV 203 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 24, 2011, in the amount of $123,032.39, the Polk County Sheriff will sell the premises described below at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: January 11, 2012, 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, encumbrances, and payment of applicable transfer taxes.

PLACE: In the Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center, located at 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wis. 54810.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: Parcel I: That part of Government Lots 3 and 4, Section 26, Township 33 North, Range 18 West, described as follows: From the Southwest corner of said Section 26, running 0˚ 14’ West along the West line of Section 26, 1,139.30 feet; thence North 85˚ 52’ East, 22.90 feet to the East right-of-way line of County Road “Y” and the point of beginning of the land to be described; thence North 85˚ 52’ East, 133.95 feet; thence South 70˚ 03’ East, 231.40 feet; thence North 19˚ 44’ East, 100.0 feet; thence North 54˚ 05’ East, 467.30 feet to the high-water mark, of Round Lake; thence Northeasterly to a point on the East line of said Government Lot 3 that is 600.00 feet South of the Northeast corner of said Government Lot 3; thence Southwesterly to a point on the high-water mark of Round Lake; that is North 7˚ 14’ East, 209.60 feet;

TO THE PUBLIC: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, on motion of the Board of Education, the School District of Luck will hold a special electors meeting to consider the sale of two parcels of land, one in the Village of Luck and one in the Town of Luck (see map).

The first is an approximately 26.06-acre parcel located in the Village of Luck more specifically described as: That portion of Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 1295, recorded in Volume 6 of Certified Survey Maps, Page 111, as Document No. 468084, being located in the NW 1/4 of the NE 1/4, Section 33, Township 36 North, Range 17 West, Village of Luck, Polk County, Wisconsin, EXCEPT an approximately 4.59-acre parcel which will be split from this property and retained by the School District.

The second is an approximately 5.79-acre parcel located in the Town of Luck more specifically described as: All that portion of Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 1295, recorded in Volume 6 of Certified Survey Maps, Page 111, Document No. 468084, being located in the SW 1/4 of the NE 1/4, Section 33, Township 36 North, Range 17 West, Town of Luck, Polk County, Wisconsin.

Said properties to be conveyed to the Village of Luck for negotiated prices. The first parcel has been appraised by Search Appraisal of Forest Lake, Minnesota, at $117,000 and the second at $44,000.

This public hearing will be held on Monday, December 19, 2011, at noon, just prior to the Board of Education’s monthly meeting. The sale of the two parcels of property are the only items which can be considered by the electors at that time.

The meeting will be held in the Boardroom, located in the District Administrative Offices, 810 Seventh Street South, Luck, Wisconsin. In the event the number of electors in attendance make it appropriate to do so, the meeting will be moved to the small gym.

All persons who wish to be heard on this matter are invited to attend on the date and at the time indicated above.

BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LUCK By: Rick Palmer, District Administrator 551084 16-17L Class 2 Notice, Ch. 985, Wis. Stats.

POLK COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO 2010-2012 COUNTY AGING PLAN AND PROPOSED 2012 APPLICATION OF POLK COUNTY FOR SECTION 85.21 AID Date & Time of Public Hearing: Tues., Dec. 20, 2011, at 4:00 p.m.

Polk County Government Center, Health Department, Conference Room A and B 100 Polk County Plaza, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin 54810 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that during its regular business meeting on December 20, 2011, commencing at 4:00 p.m., the Polk County Council on Aging will hold a public hearing for the purpose of receiving input, comment, participation and presentations, both verbal and in written form, from Polk County Aging Unit staff, citizens, interested agencies and organizations with respect to the preparation, review and development of the following: 1. The Proposed Amendment to the 2010-2012 County Aging Plan of Polk County 2. The Proposed 2012 Application of Polk County for Section 85.21 Aid Following the public hearing the Polk County Council of Aging may take action to approve the respective proposed amendment and application.

A copy of each of the Proposed Amendment to the 2010-2012 County Aging Plan of Polk County and the Proposed 2012 Application of Polk County for Section 85.21 Aid may be reviewed on the Polk County Web site at www.co.polk.wi.us or at the following Polk County office locations: • Polk County Clerk’s Office, 100 Polk County Plaza, Suite 100, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin • Polk County Aging Programs Office, 100 Polk County Plaza, Suite 190, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin • Aging and Disability Resources Center of Northwest Wisconsin, Polk County Office, 100 Polk County Plaza, Suite 60, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

These offices are open Monday through Friday between the hours 551121 16-17L 6-7a,d WNAXLP of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The public hearing is open to the public according to Wisconsin State Statute 19.83. Persons with disabilities wishing to attend and/ or participate are asked to notify the County Clerk’s office (715-4858590) at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled meeting time so all reasonable accommodations can be made, including, but not unlimited to, transportation to and from the public hearing.

The Town of Apple River, by this ordinance, adopted on proper notice with a quorum and roll call vote by a majority of the town board present and voting, provides the authority for the town to designate all-terrain vehicle routes in the town and to regulate the use of those routes and all-terrain vehicles in the town.

The Town Board of Apple River, Polk County, Wisconsin, has the specific authority to adopt this All-Terrain Vehicle Route Ordinance under s 23.33(8) (b) and (11) Wisconsin statutes.

All town roads are designated all-terrain vehicle routes in the town.

The effective date is December 15, 2011.

A copy of the full ordinance is available by calling the Town Clerk, Gloria Stokes, at 715-268-9275 or by going to our Web site: arclerk@amerytel.net.

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Full-Time Personal Banker/Loan A s s i s t a n t P o s i t i o n Av a i l a b l e Frandsen Bank & Trust, Dresser Branch, has an immediate opening for a Full-Time Personal Banker/Loan Assistant. We are looking for a person to work as a loan assistant/loan document processer who is friendly, enthusiastic and has customer-service experience. Duties will include: loan processing and customer-service responsibilities; new deposit accounts, back-up teller and other miscellaneous duties with some Saturday morning hours.

Competitive wage, commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits.

Interested applicants should inquire:

Vicki Koehler vkoehler@frandsenbank.com Frandsen Bank & Trust 111 State Road 35 N Dresser, WI 54009 Phone (715) 755-2174 Fax (715) 755-2176

(Nov. 23, 30, Dec. 7) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY HSBC MORTGAGE SERVICES, INC., Plaintiff, vs.

DOUGLAS A. NEIDERMIRE and LORI A. NEIDERMIRE, husband and wife and THE RIVERBANK Defendants.

Case No. 10-CV-445 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000.00 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on August 20, 2010, in the amount of $297,109.97, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: December 14, 2011, 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 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: Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 West Main St., Balsam Lake, Wis. DESCRIPTION: A Parcel of Land in the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4), Section Thirteen (13), Township ThirtyThree (33) North, Range Nineteen (19) West, in Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest Corner of said Southeast Quarter; thence South along the West Line of said Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 OF SW1/4), 345.0 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence due East 264.0 feet; thence

551030 16L

NOTICE

TOWN OF APPLE RIVER POLK COUNTY SUMMARY NOTICE OF ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE ROUTE ORDINANCE

due South 165.0 feet; thence due West 264.0 feet to the said West Line of the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4); thence North along said West Line 165.0 feet to the Point of Beginning; Excepting the right of way of the Town Road Extending along the said West Line of said Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4); AND A Parcel of Land in the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4), Section Thirteen (13), Township Thirty-Three (33) North, Range Nineteen (19) West described as follows: Commencing at the Northwest Corner of said Southeast Quarter thence South along West Line of said Southeast Quarter 510 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence due East 264.0 feet; thence due South approximately 30 feet to the Border of Private Road as it is presently travelled; thence West along North Border of said Road 264.0 feet to the West Line of Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4); thence North along said West Line to the Point of Beginning; Excepting the right of way of the Town Road Extending along said West Line of said Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of SW1/4); being approximately 0.18 acre.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 916 248th St., Town of Osceola.

TAX KEY NO.: 042-01029-0000 Peter M. Johnson Sheriff of Polk County, WI O’DESS AND ASSOCIATES, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 1414 Underwood Avenue Suite 403 Wauwatosa, WI 53213 (414) 727-1591 O’Dess and Associates, S.C., is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. If you have previously received a Chapter 7 Discharge in Bankruptcy, this correspondence should not be construed as an attempt to collect a debt.

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Notices/Employment Opportunities

A gift given, a gift lost, a gift returned

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

Courtesy of Oprah

About a month ago, Kari Letch of Luck and Peggy Gill of Rice Lake traveled to Eau Claire to pick out the new 2012 Volkswagen Beetles they won for being members of the audience at Oprah’s Favorite Things show, which was taped a year ago in Chicago. The cars were considered the top gifts out of several that Oprah bestowed on each audience member. Letch said Oprah producers asked that each audience member pick up their new Beetles at their preferred VW dealer, so she went on the Internet and found Ken Vance Car City in Eau Claire. “They made the whole experience very special with refreshments, including sparkling apple juice and cookies, balloons and gift bags,” noted Letch. She said the dealer’s owner, Ken Vance, greeted her and Gill at the door and introduced them to many of his employees. “They made us feel very welcome and have continued to be great since,” Letch said. “I’m still feeling very blessed over this whole thing.” Letch and Gill were among five women from Northwest Wisconsin to be in the audience of more than 200 during the taping of the show. Others included Heather (Wiesner) Vilstrup, a teacher at Grantsburg, and her mother Sally Wiesner of Shell Lake, and Susan Lacek of Danbury/Minneapolis. - Special photos

A very happy Alexi Gloodt showed the envelope Siren Principal Peggy Ryan received containing his wallet and $60 cash. Gloodt lost the wallet with the birthday money from his sister, Rachel, on a family outing at a Rochester, Minn., park several weeks ago. The wallet was found and returned to him by the Kotsonas family who were also in the park that day. The Kotsonases located Gloodt through his Siren School ID, called the school to verify he was a student there, then sent the wallet to the teen’s principal. “Wow, I can’t believe someone found my wallet and sent it back to me,” said the elated eighth-grader. - Special photo rightful owner.

by Priscilla Bauer “We had forgotten Alexi’s school ID was Leader staff writer SIREN – Alexi Gloodt was having a fine in his wallet,” Jill explained. “That’s how day. His sister, Rachel, had just given him they found him.”

A week later, Alexi’s wallet was deliv$60 cash for his 14th birthday, telling him ered to Siren Principal Peggy Ryan who he could spend it any way he wanted.

“Needless to say, he was so excited and called Alexi to her office where his wallet thrilled,” said Alexi’s mother, Jill, noting with the $60 still in it was waiting for him.

“Wow, I can’t believe someone found the idea of spending the money “without parental interference” was especially at- my wallet and sent it back to me,” said the elated eighth-grader. tractive to her son.

“Alexi sent a thank-you to the Kotsonas So when the family headed to Mayo Clinic for Alexi’s dad, Jim’s, doctor visit, family for their kindness and honesty,” the teen tucked his sister’s birthday gift in said the teen’s grateful parents, noting the his wallet and put it in a pocket, planning experience had reaffirmed their belief in for some awesome shopping in Rochester, people’s inherent goodness.

“In this world of negative sound bites, Minn.

“That afternoon before the big shopping our faith in human kindness was retrip, we took a family walk to a local park. stored.”

We sat by the river, watched the ducks and geese, and just enjoyed being together in the beautiful sunshine,” Jill recalled.

“When it was time to go, we gathered ourselves to walk back, and Alexi couldn’t find his wallet. We looked everywhere but no wallet.”

Even though his parents gave Alexi half the amount he’d lost, it couldn’t lift the young man’s spirits.

“He was devastated. It (Bring in any nonperishable food item and just wasn’t the same,” said receive a 5% discount on any purchase.)

Alexi’s dad, Jim, of his All donations will go to local food shelf. son’s disappointment.

Weeks passed, and just All We will b when the Gloodt family closed Sun e Christmas Décor days was about to accept the starting wallet and Alexi’s money Christmas All d were gone for good, his for the win ay ter.

Christmas Lighting school received a call.

According to Jill the conChamberlain versation was short and to the point, going something Garage Door Openers In Stock like this.

Whisper Drive & Power Drive “Does an Alexi Gloodt * Great Gift Idea * go to Siren School’?

“Yes, he does.”

“We found his wallet.”

As it turned out, another family, named Kotsonas, had also been in the park "People you know - Service you trust" On Main Street, Siren • 715-349-5350 that day and had found the Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; wallet.

Knowing how Sat. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. much someone must be missing it, they set forth an effort to return it to its

Saturday, Dec. 10

HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE 50% Off 25% Off

Jenneman’s Hardware Hank

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549848 13L

10% Off

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PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Legion Auxiliary craft sale

by Priscilla Bauer Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – Shoppers stopping at the Legion Auxiliary craft sale found gifts for everyone on their Christmas list with many vendors selling all kinds of crafts and goodies at the annual event held at the Grantsburg Community Center on Saturday, Dec. 3.

Blake Jensen, Richard Clark and Trevor Vollendorf greeted shoppers coming to the Legion Auxiliary craft sale with smiles and wreaths for sale. The Scouts were selling the wreaths as a fundraiser for upcoming projects.

Brooke Quimby was busy selling her Brookies Cookies and other yummy goodies she’d baked to entice shoppers coming to the Legion Auxiliary craft sale Saturday morning.

Marilyn Gronlund stopped at Miranda and Katie Byers craft sale table to check out the festively decorated jars the mom-and-daughter team had filled with all the ingredients for making homemade cookies.

– Photos by Priscilla Bauer

LEFT: A shopper stopped to look over handmade crocheted items at one of the many vendor booths at the annual Legion Auxiliary Craft Sale last Saturday, Dec. 3.

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WED., DEC. 7, 2011 • INTER-COUNTY LEADER NORTHERN CURRENTS • SECTION B

Currents

An award-winning newspaper serving NW Wisconsin

THE-LEADER.NET

Local photographer’s art project combines anti-drug message with local faces

"What's your anti-drug?"

by Greg Marsten Leader staff writer CENTURIA – The question Kelly Bakke Kamish posed was simple: “What’s your anti-drug?’

The answers - captured in glowing, surreal photos of kids with the tools of their battle - have been nothing short of phenomenal and heartfelt.

According to Bakke - who is an accomplished local photographer - it all started with a simple drawing by her fourthgrade daughter, Larysa, of something she drew in a Unity Elementary School guidance class. That drawing, with its anti-drug message, has grown Kelly Bakke into a districtwide challenge that not only celebrates uniqueness, talent and exceptionalism, but has a deep-rooted message for kids of all ages to fight drugs on their own turf, using the things they love.

“Larysa said it [the drawing] reflects her love for art,” Bakke recalled. “When I questioned her a bit more and saw the drawing, I realized it was an anti-drug discussion. The poster she drew said ‘Art is my anti-drug.’ She didn’t quite understand anti-drug, so I used it as a teachable moment, not just about drugs, but about healthy choices versus unhealthy choices in life - that everyone has something or someone that is really important to them and that can be the motivator for good choices.”

Bakke used her blossoming photography business to capture those messages of her daughter, and other kids from fourth grade to seniors in high school, showing them with their own, personal anti-drugs.

The photos are visually stunning, but also carry not-so-secret messages of what those kids use to fight the often pressing pressure of using drugs. From acting to basketball, football, art, reading, dance and music, it is a true celebration of childhood passion.

“I wondered what makes a message truly stick in our minds,” she said. “We’ve seen so many [anti-drug] messages over our lifetime; whether it’s a poster on a wall or pictures in a book. I thought perhaps to make it stick, we need to make it more personal.“ It’s about as personal as possible, with kids not only having to assess and define their own “tools of the battle,” but by those kids becoming models of sorts - in several ways.

Bakke first pitched the “What’s Your Anti-Drug?” campaign to Unity Elementary Principal Wayne Whitwam for a schoolwide project, with Bakke doing the photos, posters and more, all on her own

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Follow the Leader

Her guitar and music are Anna Luepke’s “anti-drug.” Local photographer Kelly Bakke captured Luepke’s passion for music in a Unity School District project that Bakke says “celebrates uniqueness, talent and exceptionalism but has a deep-rooted message for kids of all ages to fight drugs on their own turf, using the things they love.” - Photo by Kelly Bakke

Most kids have something special enough to stand between them and drugs is the message this poster for Bakke’s project conveys.

time. “He loved the idea and has been supportive and encouraging through the entire process.”

The project moved forward with her posting a simple question on Facebook, seeking people who might want to be part of the photo sessions. Originally, she was thinking of having just fourth- through eighth-grade students as the models, maybe 10 at the most, but then she had interest from several high school students, as well, and the project swelled to 18 in total, spanning eight grade levels.

“The posters on the wall become the students themselves ... the students you see every day in the hallway, on the football field, on the basketball court or in school plays, writing songs, dancing, etc.

They provide the message,” Bakke stated.

“What started out as a fourth-grade classroom discussion has grown into something so much bigger!”

Put simply, her project takes the common message of fighting the temptation of drugs to a new and personal level, by putting a unique and local face on that message by literally using local faces.

The anti-drug project is garnering support in some pretty high places, as well.

Polk County Sheriff Peter Johnson gave a heartfelt endorsement, and will be a part of an upcoming group photo of the kids involved.

“The photos really are amazing,” he said. “I think it’s a fantastic idea!”

Other fans include some of the parents of the models, and other fans have noted their support, as well. Some of the parents have said that their children look like professional models, and are excited to be a part of the project.

“The kids have been so excited to participate and do photo shoots,” Bakke said.

“The parents have been extremely supportive. Personally, I think it’s a pretty great message and instead of seeing posters and displays up at school of random strangers, we’ll have posters and displays up of themselves or people they are around every day.”

Ultimately, Bakke will create a collage of 12-inch square photos of all the kids, 18 in total, pictured throughout the Unity School cafeteria, with those familiar faces as the models, all with the same message.

The photos should be completed and arranged in the next few days, and will be available for everyone to see. She is also absorbing the entire cost of the project.

“I’ve even had other school districts contact me to see about doing it in their schools,” Bakke said. “The response has been fantastic! I’m actually quite surprised at all of the positive feedback and how far-reaching the project has become.”

Bakke credits some of the response to social media - Facebook - but the artistic nature of the final product, combined with the wholesome, honest messages is probably the true heart of the appeal. Social media has simply meant the project has been seen, shared and ultimately ignited a question within that seems to connect with everyone who sees the final product.

“The students have had a great time

See Anti-drug, page 2

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Anti-drug/from page 1 participating. The parents have been excited to have their kids join in the positive campaign and have been very supportive of getting their kids to the photo sessions during their scheduled times,” she said.

“School faculty, staff and administration have been fully supportive.”

She’s even had some faculty members ask if they could be included in the campaign. “Perhaps for the next project! I really enjoy seeing all of the excitement surrounding the process. I can’t wait to see the response once the final project is up,” she said.

As Bakke’s anti-drug project starts to gain attention and go “viral,” it seems natural that her blossoming little business Kix Photography - can grow along with it.

“I guess you could say photography is my anti-drug,” she admitted. “Well, that and my two daughters, Keegan and Larysa. Photography is a creative outlet for me. I took some photography courses in college, but am primarily self-taught. I think photography is an art ... a creative expression. Each photographer, like each artist, has their own personal style.”

While her start in photography began with photographing her two daughters, she has a full-time job in the health-care industry, and her home-based photography business sort of grew out of some of those simple, artistic visions of her own kids.

“I started getting asked to take family portraits and children’s portraits. I also began taking more nature photographs,”

Jared Kelch’s love of football, as photographed by Kelly Bakke.

she recalled. “I submitted a couple of those to contests, and to my surprise, I won!”

Bakke began to believe in what people were saying, that she had a true talent for photography. She took some of her artistic landscape and nature photographs and created a series of inspirational cards. She donated some of those first boxed sets of cards to River’s Run and Ride Rally for their silent auction.

“Amazingly, I quickly sold out of the remaining 74 boxed sets,” she recalled. “I decided then to take a leap of faith and begin ‘doing’ photography. So I upgraded my camera and started a small business.”

Yes, her anti-drug has since become an extension of her own personality and recently discovered talents - much like her anti-drug campaign, she thinks it has become a reward on its own.

“This project has combined so many of the things I love all together: my children, photography, educational experiences and overall well-being of youth,” she said.

“It’s about building and reinforcing character, confidence and self esteem in the students ... it’s been very rewarding. I’m looking forward to the next project!”

Like many great vocations and projects, it all started with a simple idea ... and the love of a few cute kids.

For more information on the “What’s Your Anti-Drug?” campaign and art project, visit www.kixphoto.com or look for Kelly Kamish Bakke on Facebook.

Art, dance, sports, academics and skateboarding are depicted as “anti-drugs” in these photos of (CLOCKWISE): Larysa Bakke, Keegan Bakke, Brandon McKenzie, Kaitlyn McKinnon and Avery Flaherty. - Photos by Kelly Bakke

A small boy was

lost, so he went up to a policeman and said, “I’ve lost my dad!”

The cop said, “What’s he like?”

The little boy replied, “Beer and women!”

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Just for

Laughs Joe Roberts

••• The graduate with a science degree asked, “Why does it work?”

The graduate with an engineering degree asked, “How does it work?”

The graduate with an accounting degree asked, “How much will it cost?”

The graduate with a philosophy degree asked, “Do you want fries with that?”

••• A lonely frog, desperate for any form of company, telephoned the Psychic Hotline to find out what his future had in store.

His personal psychic advisor advised him, “You are going to meet a beautiful young girl who will want to know everything about you.”

The frog was thrilled and said, “This is great! Where will I meet her, at work, at a party?”

“No,” said the psychic, “in a biology class.”

“Holiday Indulgence” to be presented dinner-theater-style GRANTSBURG - The Grantsburg High School music department is planning to repeat an event that has become a holiday tradition. Their annual Christmas concert will be presented in the style of dinner theater, with almost two hours of music and eating available to ticket holders. Performances are Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18. This year the event is returning to the high school, and the music department is transforming the gym into a festive performance site.

Ticket holders will be seated at tables to eat and listen to the students perform a wide variety of holiday music. The groups focus on traditional favorites of the season, but will also perform contemporary holiday music. This year a full meal will be served, with a choice of an entree, salads and desserts. In addition to the great music, audience members will be visited by Santa Claus! This should be an event to remember.

Because the concert-goers will be seated at tables, a reservation is recommended for both the Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon performances. Anyone interested can call Grantsburg High School at 715-463-5165, Ext. 202, to place a reservation. Seating starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 3 p.m. on Sunday. There will be live music performances starting at that time, with the large group performances starting about 30 minutes later.

This performance has been a big hit with audiences and performers the last five years, with people saying it really brings them into the holiday mood. It is also a performance fundraiser for the music department, with the money raised going to help with trip expenses. - submitted

I like to read advice columns.

I mean, I really like to read advice columns.

Reading a single column is never enough, I like to read them by the dozen. I will find a Carrie Classon trove of advice columns by someone I’ve never heard of, archived on some Web site, and sit up till all hours reading them.

While there is nothing inherently wrong in reading advice columns, I recognize that reading dozens and dozens of advice columns is a little obsessive. If they were cookies or shots of whiskey or even repetitions of “Sweatin’ to the Oldies,” this would not be healthy behavior. So I wonder why I do it.

I don’t think it is so much because I like reading about people’s problems. I don’t think I get any vicarious thrill from others misery. That’s not it.

As best as I can figure out, there is something intensely soothing and satisfying about problems presented and solved all within a paragraph or two. I like the neat way that these problems— some recent, some ancient— are addressed and dispensed within half a page. It’s cathartic. I get a vicarious satisfaction from it. It makes me feel a sort of relief every time I read a letter. Problem presented, problem solved. Repeat.

Because the advice columns are easy: “My wife doesn’t want me to go out with the boys.” “My husband doesn’t help with housework.” “My bridesmaid behaved badly at my wedding.” These problems are straightforward. These problems can be solved in two paragraphs.

I don’t know what the next turn in the road will be for me. I don’t know for certain that I am doing the right thing. I am afraid— often very afraid— to take the next step. The vulnerability that comes from trying to live each day without excuses or compromises

Letters from

Home

is frightening. Knowing intellectually that I have only one life to live— and living that life as if it were true— are two very different things.

I have this enormous luxury of living my life without the fear of starvation or being eaten by tigers. This has not been true for most of human existence. My problems and challenges are utterly insignificant compared to the kind of life-and-death struggles faced by much of the world and nearly all of human history. Here I sit, with this embarrassment of options and alternatives, with no starving children in my care, and the very real possibility that I may live for several more decades with no greater responsibility than finding meaning in my life.

It is enough to drive a person straight into the advice columns.

“I’m looking for meaning in my life.” “I’m afraid of failure.” “I’m wondering if my life makes a difference.” These letters never appear in the advice columns.

So I’m pulling the plug on advice columns, at least for a while. I might still read Dear Abby (she only appears once a day, after all), but I am going to try to do without Amy, Prudence, Margo, Friend or Foe, the Advice Goddess and the rest. I am going to dump them because they are an escape— and I’d like to figure out what it is I’m escaping before I run any further.

Instead, I’m going to write advice columns to myself. In place of the comforting two paragraphs that solve all my problems, my columns will say: “Wow. That’s hard.” “Fear is part of life.” “You might never know.”

It won’t be nearly as satisfying.

Till next time, —Carrie

Osceola Colonial dinner Osceola secondsgraders held a Colonial Dinner on Friday, Nov. 18, welcoming parents and grandparents to share a Thanksgiving feast with them. - Photos submitted

Open skate begins GRANTSBURG – Free open skate at the Grantsburg hockey rink will be held on Sundays, 4-7 p.m. beginning Dec. 11 and continuing through March 4. The rink will be closed on the holidays, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Everyone is invited to enjoy some family time and put on those skates - it’s a good place to exercise in the winter. Visit www.grantsburghockey.com for more details. with submitted information

Digital life support I am in a love-hate relationship

Cold Turkey

with technology. Computer technology is fascinating and powerful. It can accomplish things never before John W. Ingalls thought possible. It allows for rapid transmission of information, videos, photos and communication almost anywhere in the world. What happens in one small corner of the world is almost immediately viewed halfway around the globe. We are connected in ways that were once never thought possible.

The incredible ability to connect with others and transfer information has also made us dependent on technology for day-to-day functions. No longer can we conduct business with just a paper and pencil. Even the simplest transactions at the local hardware store have involved bar codes, inventory tracking and recording of the financial transaction. If you used a credit or debit card, it also accessed your financial accounts and transferred sufficient funds to complete the purchase. Even if you live your personal life without computers or iPods your interactions with the world are utterly dependent on technology.

What I have come to hate about technology is the fact that we are literally married to it. If my truck worked as well as my computer I would have difficulty getting somewhere. If my windshield MD wipers were stuck I would likely have to turn my truck on and off a couple of times to reboot so they would work again. If I had a flat tire I couldn’t just change the tire, I would have to log on to some distant server and download a patch, install the software hoping it is compatible with my windshield wipers and then restart the truck.

In the medical world it is far worse. Nearly all health care information is now transmitted or stored in some electronic format. Even clinics that maintain paper records have to submit insurance and financial information via computers. If computer networks fail due to power outages or internal issues then everything literally grinds to a halt. We can’t schedule, we can’t review previous information, we can’t renew prescriptions and we can’t give medications because it is all stored in locked refrigerators and dispensing devices that are computer controlled.

Mobile devices have gained a significant foothold in our day to day lives. MP3 players, smart phones, tablets and electronic books help us to remain connected to each other while on the go. You can share family photo albums with friends and send shopping lists to your spouse while reclining in a chaise lounge on the beach.

Small devices can also lead to interesting situations.

One day a staff member, while sitting at her desk during a break, was paging through a magazine. I happened to look over her shoulder and commented on how delicious the pictures of holiday desserts and caramel-topped cheesecake appeared. She nodded and said something in return. As she paged through the magazine I commented again and she again replied briefly while nodding her head. Then she caught me off guard.

“I love you, see you later.”

I wondered how to respond. I took this as a signal that it was time to go. She was a good nurse and I didn’t want to offend or disappoint her and I didn’t want to give the wrong impression either. My mouth was a bit dry when I replied.

“I love you too.”

She looked at me like in disbelief as from under her thick long hair she pulled out her cell phone.

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Maple syrup meeting It’s time for all of us maple syrup producers and wanna-bes to get together and plan next year’s production. To make that easy, Steve Anderson, of Anderson Maple, 12 miles east of Luck on Hwy. 48, and a mile south on 40th Street, is having a free open house at his maple facility. Show up about 8:30 a.m. for snacks and coffee, then the program goes all day with hourly sessions including lunch.

As the noisiest maple syrup producer in the area, I will be the emcee. There will be experts on hand to tell you what is the latest in equipment and procedures as well as fun sessions and outdoor sessions on pipelines (so come prepared for a short walk in the woods). Free noon lunch; door prizes and discounts on supplies.

It is fascinating to hear how maple production is changing to improve efficiency.

Steve’s own woods are pipelined with vacuum. In one area, check valves were used last spring and in the other they were not—so we will find out what difference that makes.

Here is the schedule: 8:30 a.m.: Open – donuts and coffee 9 a.m.: Welcome 9:15 a.m.: Tubing basics and vacuum information 10 a.m.: Demo in woods 11 a.m.: Reverse-osmosis machine basics Noon: Complimentary lunch 1:30 p.m.: Boiling 101 and filtering 2:30 p.m.: Candy and sugar making 3:30 p.m.: Syrup judging tips 5 p.m.: Close ••• Kneeding work We spent the past week down at Pine Island while I visited with my doctor. I was in for my 65-year warranty checkup, as I am very soon to become an official senior citizen. Medicare kicked in for me as of Thursdays, Dec. 1, so I have to learn how that works now. I still have Mayo as my supplemental insurance, so I am optimistic that everything will go smoothly.

Medicare is part of what conservatives call “socialism.” That means it is a government sponsored and administered program paid for by taxes shared by workers and their employers. It is essentially a not-for-profit insurance program.

Private insurance companies have as a goal to make a big profit for stockholders and executives by paying out as little as possible to insured folks. Medicare has as a goal to get us through our old age without going into bankruptcy from medical bills—and generally is looking after our best interests rather than Chinese investors’.

Medicare and programs like that seem to make the conservatives mad, but I think it is mostly they are worried about losing it for themselves—except for the very rich who don’t need it. I have never heard of a Tea Partier refusing it or Social Security out of principle.

In my opinion, having seen it work for Margo’s and my parents, it is genuinely wonderful—and those conservatives who want to push us seniors on the mercy of private insurance companies don’t understand how important it is to those of us who aren’t rich. Of course, it is our personal responsibility not to abuse it—we have to try to figure out how to make it more efficient.

The worst statistic is that most of the money that Medicare will pay for my health care comes in my last six months of life. I don’t want to end up dying in an intensive care unit after months of expensive and unsuccessful treatment, but that happens far too often. Most doctors,

hospitals, clinics and medical providers are paid by insurance (including Medicare) on fee for service. The more tests, operations, visits, the more money they bring in.

It does not have to be this way. Kaiser Health magazine says “Hospitals that do not use fee for service, such as Mayo and the Cleveland Clinic, appear to order fewer tests and procedures at the end of life without impacting outcomes or the quality of care, according to the Dartmouth researchers. Mayo keeps patients in the last six months of life in the hospital 35 percent fewer days than at the University of California at Los Angeles, and patients at Mayo see doctors less than half the number of times than at UCLA. Some experts contend that the U.S. could save $700 billion a year if hospitals like UCLA acted more like Mayo.”

I was back at Mayo for my second visit with Dr. Allen, the young woman doctor I wrote about last year at this time—a yearly physical. I had the blood test in the morning and the appointment in the afternoon. Everything was teetering on the upper edges of normal, so other than a pep talk on getting more exercise and losing weight there was not much health -related to talk about.

I blamed my lack of exercise on a bad knee. Two Novembers ago I fell from a ladder while roofing the sawmill shed and redamaged a knee that had been previously messed up in a 1988 skiing crash.

At the time, the leg-repair surgeons told me, “The knee is pretty bad, but first we have to fix the broken leg—when it gets healed up in a year or so, then we will have to fix the knee.”

Well, the knee has been a real pain since maple syrup season this spring, so Dr. Allen arranged for an X-ray and a visit with the surgeon after the physical.

I could have had the very much more expensive MRI image, but the surgeon said an X-ray would show plenty of information to make the decision and save money for Medicare.

“Bone on bone—the knee needs replacing. Must hurt a lot. Problem is from your knee down the bone is full of screws and plates—no room to put in replacement knee without removing all the hardware first. It will take eight weeks from when I open up the leg and take out the hardware before the knee replacement. If your leg bone doesn’t crumble in the meantime, we can get the knee in at that time. I don’t do knees, so you need to talk to the knee surgeon. I’ll send you to the guy who deals with our complex knee problems. If anyone can fix you up, it is him. You have a few months of taking it easy this winter.”

Mayo does 2,500 knees per year and as my dad said, “I had the doctor who specialized in right knees of dairy farmers that are 72 years old.” He was very happy with the results. Mayo was less expensive for Dad than having it done locally or in the Twin Cities.

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So, I am starting to think about how to get through the winter without going crazy just sitting around. Most winters we head south for a month or two, getting back in time for maple syrup season.

I think we will try it again—have the hardware next week, give it a couple of weeks to recover, then head south for a month before coming back for a new knee, hoping the leg won’t “crumble” in the meantime.

This winter I had been trying to psych myself up finally to write the “Hansson Family History” where I start with Adam and Eve Hansson through Noah Hansson down to current times. However, it is hard to figure out how to get started. I suppose I could use the Book of Genesis for the first chapter if I can get permission from the Author to use it.

Cousin Diane wrote me last week asking for some details and stories of GreatGrandpa Charles Hanson with the goal of writing a children’s book about him.

Maybe I can feed her information and she will do the writing. Children’s books have a lot of pictures and simple text— the same thing a history book should have.

We had a fun day at the Luck Museum on Santa Day last Saturday, Dec. 3, selling copies of “Second Book of Stories of the Trade River Valley” and “History of Cushing,” and the brand-new book “River Road Ramblings 2011,” the compendium of this year’s columns by the Rambler with additions never before having seen the light of day. The books cost $15 each but postage adds $3 so send a check made out to SELHS, Box 731, Cushing, WI 54006 if you want a history book or if you want the Rambling book, to Russ Hanson, 15937 County 27 Blvd., Pine Island, MN 55963. SELHS is the Sterling, Eureka and Laketown Historical Society headquartered in beautiful uptown Cushing at the community center museum.

In a weak moment, I agreed to take on the presidency of SELHS for the coming year. Marcie Marquardt has been an excellent president for many years, but she insisted she wanted a break this time around. No one else was willing, so I decided to take a turn at it. I don’t know if we will do anything differently, but we will see what happens. I have been very careful not to take on any jobs with responsibility since I retired—this is the first. Being an officer in a group means you have to be reliable, responsible, dependable and active—all the opposite of my theory of retirement.

I think it would be useful to have a meeting of representatives of all the local history societies to see if we might work together more. I think in Polk County we have Frederic, SEL, Luck, Milltown, St. Croix Falls, Osceola, Amery, Clear Lake and of course the county historical society as well as the Polk County Genealogical Society. Maybe we could do lunch sometime just to visit. Grantsburg and

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A short program, lunch and lots of visiting sound good to me! Maybe we could do it as a way of introducing ourselves to the new Polk County museum director.

SELHS started in 2000 and became a subchapter of the Polk County Historical Society. This is the last year that the state historical society will let us be a subchapter. We have to fill out the forms for our own 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and be independent. Over at the Luck Area Historical Society, we just went through that process – bunch of fees, I think maybe $400, and 25 pages of paperwork and bylaw changes, etc. Hopefully we can copy the Luck forms and get through it with their help. This is to prove we are a true nonprofit and worthy of donations that can be written off on your taxes. The IRS is pretty fussy that we are on the up and up—a good thing, I think.

Mark Johnson, a long-term SELHS member, and local history buff, for the past couple of years has been trying to get a group together to refurbish the local history signs that dot Polk County. I think they have been up for 30 years or so, and many in our area have fallen or are in need of paint or replacement. He and I both have routers and some kind of letter templates, but don’t have a clue how to use them.

Are there any woodworkers out there who might want to help with this project? We thought we would start with the three town (Sterling, Eureka and Laketown) covered by SELHS but are still wondering about the best material to make them out of and of course how to do it and paying for it. Mark Johnson is in the phone book for St. Croix Falls under Mark and Vicky so give him a call if you can help.

Want to see an old-fashioned Christmas church program? Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Trade Lake Mission Church. Park at the Trade Lake Town Hall at 6 p.m. and go in for treats and then take the bus ride up the hill to the 1880s church and watch the kids stumble through their Christmas lines at 7 p.m. Trade Lake is beautifully lighted for the occasion! Dress for the weather including warm boots as it can get cold on the floor in old buildings even with the heat on! Stop in at the Trade Lake store while you are there and pick up No. 2 in our series of books on Trade Lake history. All money goes to SELHS to preserve local history. Trade Lake is just off Hwy. 48 about midway between Frederic and Hwy. 87.

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DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Three Christmas stories I Found Christmas There (1972)

Christmas is all around us. I stopped at the church to drop off some packages in the middle of the day. The organist was practicing the prelude for the program, and I stood in the entry listening to the strains of “The Birthday of a King.” And I found Christmas there!

The elderly bachelor, John Edward Johnson, at the edge of town sent a letter with a $10 bill enclosed along with his best wishes. It was his annual gift to the Lewis Sunday School. He cooks on a wood range, reads by lamplight, and his refrigerator is the whole outdoors; often too cold in winter, too warm in summer. Yet he gave. He clearly believes in the importance of the church and the importance of children. And I found Christmas there!

I was only supposed to spend one dollar on the exchange name on my list, but there are so few little girls in my life to shop for that I got carried away and spent more. The little girl opened her present and hugged the doll. She asked, “What’s her name?” I read the label on the sleeve. “It’s Sleepyhead,” I told her. Obviously, that didn’t sound like much of a name, so I took a closer look at the doll and added, “She looks like you. I think she must be an Amy Doll.” She beamed and nodded: “I love her,” she said, and her smile was like sunshine.

And I found Christmas there!

As the Sunday school program drew to a close, another 3-year-old, no longer able to contain her excitement, launched into a graceful, impromptu little dance, before the altar. No restraining hands reached out.

There was something spontaneous and beautiful about it, nothing sacrilegious.

In his message the next day, the minister said his first impression was that someone should stop her, but then he thought about it. If Christmas is really the celebration we claim it is, why, all children should be allowed to dance with joy before the altar. And I found Christmas there!

The minister, the Rev. James Know, recounted the story of “Gift of the Magi,” and all over again, I found Christmas there!

The choir at the local high school sang, the beautiful words of “Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella.” Again, I found Christmas! When Santa Claus said, “Merry Christmas, you all,” I just assumed he was from the South Pole.

Recently, there were two very fine programs on television. “The Homecoming” and “The House Without a Christmas Tree.” And I found Christmas there!

I walked through the toy department and looked at all the new things available for children, and my eyes opened wide with amazement. I found Christmas there!

A funny card came in the mail stating, “I’m sending you a partridge in a pear tree. Be sure to put lots of newspapers under it.” And I laughed and found Christmas there!

One of our advertisers sent a big box of crisp, juicy apples and the whole Leader crew found Christmas there!

The box of pale pink divinity was a welcome gift in our home. I knew exactly how much went into it ... in time, effort and blouse. That’s right, blouse! The cook caught her blouse in the beaters while beating the hot syrup and by the time she cut her blouse out of the mixer, the candy took on additional expense. And laughing together, we found Christmas there!

Gazing up into the winter sky at night, it was difficult to believe our astronauts were walking on the moon, looking down, at us. That and all the wonders of creation were almost too wonderful to comprehend. And I found Christmas there, especially in the bright star over that way!

A smile from a stranger on the street ... a Merry Christmas over the telephone ... a letter from a friend ... a word of appreciation, a warm handshake ... a hug.

Christmas is found in so many places, in so many ways. If only we can find it. Not that it was ever lost!

We only have to look as far as our own hearts, and in the manger.

My Mink Coat was a Godsend

Back in March 1945 I married a man from northern Wisconsin, and I was from the south - down in southern Wisconsin. It was quite a change moving way “up north” to the land of birch trees, white pines and cold, cold winters.

I shivered from November until April. It seemed the wind blew right through me. In my letters to my father, I often mentioned the weather, and he shared my letters with his employer.

At that time, my husband and I and our little son lived in a small town on Lake Superior. One day a big box, heavily insured, arrived for me. My father’s employer had sent her second-best fur coat just in time for Christmas.

I slipped it on, and it fit beautifully. It was a fulllength coat with matched mink pelts down the front. It was gorgeous - and warm! What luxury to step outside in frigid temperatures and not shiver and shake. What a godsend it was!

I wore it all that winter and several years after that. It wasn’t saved for best but used every day, grocery shopping, church, waiting at the bus stop and visiting.

Those were the days when fur coats were considered the height of fashion and every woman’s dream. That was before animal rightists protested cruelty to animals, and threw paint on such coats to make a point. Fur coats were acceptable. After all, mink were raised on mink farms for the express purpose of harvesting their pelts. It was a highly lucrative Wisconsin industry.

Somehow, and I’ve never been sure how it happened, but one of my favorite aunts talked me into giving her my precious coat. Besides, we were moving downstate and leaving the frigid northland, and I would no longer shiver and shake in southern Wisconsin. That was the

Behind the

Signpost Bernice Abrahamzon basic premise. My aunt had my mink coat restyled into a fur cape, using the best of the pelts.

Still, I remember that mink coat, when I felt like a fashion model right out of Vogue magazine, when I was warm and cozy all winter long. What a glorious Christmas gift it was!

(Note: Sometimes you think I make up stories, although I tell you I don’t write fiction. I have a picture that proves that: 1. I really did have a fur coat, and 2. I really was a brunette. Ken in his trench coat, and scowling, looks like a gangster and that makes me his moll.

We laughed many times over this picture. We are standing beside our 1938 LaSalle, but that’s another story.

Don’t I wish I had both the car and the coat again.)

More Memories of Christmas ... (1997)

Every year my father’s employers gave him a Christmas check and something else besides. It would be like bringing coals to Newcastle to give him a plant or cut flowers, as he had three greenhouses filled with green, growing things.

So they usually gave him (and ultimately us, his family) a huge basket of fruit. Big Delicious apples, both red and golden; big oranges; and bananas. And then the more unusual items: little orange kumquats like elongated miniature oranges; pomegranates, red and seedy; fresh figs from Persia and fresh dates and nuts. The baskets were real works of art.

One Christmas, they gave my father a feather tree.

The chicken feathers were dyed green, and tiny, red velvet bows decorated each branch. The table Christmas tree was over a foot tall. It lasted many years, as every January it was encased in a plastic bag and stored away until the next holiday season.

One Christmas, fruit arrived, not in a basket or box, but in an enormous brass bowl with Chinese writing all over it. Strike the edge of the brass bowl, and it rings like a deep-throated bell. Today, alas, it is filled with my choicest rock specimens. I ought to empty it, shine it up and fill it with fruit. It has been our experience, however, that citrus fruit keeps best in the refrigerator.

That’s where a gift shipment from Florida is now stored, taking up two whole shelves.

Ask anyone about Christmas memories, and you will discover they are made up of the best bits and pieces from the past, like jewels we take out and polish once a year, then pack away tenderly for another 11 months.

Most of us have memories of our first ice skates, our first skis, our first wristwatch, perhaps our first typewriter, or in this day and age our first word processor.

Which reminds me, have you noticed how many little, little kids now wear wristwatches and can tell time?

Digital watches, of course, help. Do you remember how confusing it was to figure out that 9:45 was the same as a quarter to 10? When my husband was in the Marine Air Corps, I had real trouble telling military time.

It seems almost unbelievable, but I received my first wristwatch for eighth-grade graduation. Either children are accelerated today to such a degree that they are almost catapulted into adulthood when they are still in elementary school or perhaps, back in the ‘30s, we were held back and remained children for a much longer time. Perhaps the world was slower then. Perhaps it was an age of innocence, unsullied by explicit television shows or videos, paperback romance novels, uncensored speech and emphasis on sex.

It seems, looking back, before wars all over the world, violence and mayhem viewed on TV screens, that it was a “sweeter” world. What we didn’t know couldn’t contaminate us.

Drugs were something dispensed by physicians for illness (and then very sparingly). We knew opium came from poppies. We didn’t know about sniffing glue or other substances that made us dizzy. If directions said to open windows when applying lacquer, we did so. We read the rules and followed them. We didn’t think about disobeying rules, as that was sure to bring punishment of one kind or another.

Children who were naughty were spanked and yelled at. They expected it. Parents didn’t know about psychology and “time out” and catch phrases about “inappropriate behavior.”

Well, that was then (not all bad!) and this is now (not all good!).

Ben Logan’s new book “Christmas Remembered” is now out, and being read for Chapter-A-Day on Wisconsin Public Radio. We catch it at 12:30 after lunch or at 10:30 p.m. after the nightly news. It reads aloud very well. Some books when read aloud prove to be too much of a mouthful of words, too much alliteration and too many clauses. Ben Logan’s story is just right for oral interpretation. The name of his farm is Seldom Seen Farm. I like that almost as much as Too Soon Sundown Farm owned by Wayne and Kathie Boniface here in the town if Clam Falls. A big hill does indeed obscure most of their sunsets.

As Christmas approaches here on Bittersweet Ridge Farm (where we try to make the sweet outweigh the bitter!) we are happy with the so-called open winter.

However, we are not used to a brown winter, and we still dream of a white Christmas to make everything fresh and new (like a fresh piece of paper which I will fill up with hieroglyphics and words in record time.)

Until next week, Bernice

Do you remember?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Marion Smith of Clam Falls donated to the county museum.-Over 200 attended the defense meeting at Frederic.-Personalized stationery was available at the Leader office for $2.50 and $3.75.-Larry Liesch was remodeling his barbershop in Frederic.-New McCulloch chain saws were $149.95.-War surplus items were available at Les’s store, south Siren.-Specials at Route’s, Frederic, included fryers at 25¢ lb., potatoes at 25 lbs for 69¢, brown or powdered sugar was 2 lbs. for 29¢, and crackers were 2-lb. box for 59¢.-Frederic Auto Co. had a large selection of used cars and trucks, Frederic.-Range Co-op Feed Mill had specials.-A dance was held Nov. 11 at Indian Creek Hall.-Turtle Lake Legion had a dance at Straight 8’s range room on Friday, Nov. 10.-Specials at Clover Farm Store included turkeys at 29¢ lb., carrots at 20¢ lb.-A headline said, Deer widows: watch for bargains next week.-A Grantsburg man was the sixth traffic fatality of year.-Polk County adopted a $3,005,571.38 budget for 1962.-State’s milk prices show seasonal rise.

40 Years Ago Acreage in Burnett County added to St. Croix Forest.-Polk Sportsmen planned for booya.-Postal service announces no holiday delivery.-Mill rate down, valuation up for tax billing in Frederic.-Zoning ordinance amended to limit mobile home location.Top prizes in Christmas coloring contest to students of Luck, Frederic.-State industry wage records survey show $300 million hike.-“Celebrate Christmas in Church” column listed all the services in all the local churches.-Remember Duane’s 76 Service Station, Frederic? Christmas greetings from Frederic Co-op Super Market and Frederic Co-op Exchange, etc.-The Christmas editorial “What will we celebrate?” was written by CW Gade, Frederic-WebsterDanbury Lutheran parish.-Wanted: Careful drivers for happy holidays.-Staff of the Inter-County Leader/Advertisers included Ed Greinke, manager; Dick Wilder, Ted Zinn, Ray Linden, Wayne Lundquist, John Franklin, Jim Brinkman, Frank Gursky, Bernice Abrahamzon, Mary Bergeson, Bernice Asper, editor; Elizabeth Ruhn, Pearl Burnett, Diane Utley, Lu Prodger, Arlene Panek, Eleanor Mitchell, Betty Lu Ruecker, Fern Thompson and Jay Wondra.-Arrow Building Center, included Danbury, Webster, Siren, Frederic, Milltown and Grantsburg.

20 Years Ago This time of the year small-town businesses are placing Christmas ads wishing readers a "Happy" or "Merry" Christmas. It's amazing how many businesses have disappeared in the last 20 years. Trains no longer run and depots are turned to other uses including small-town museums.–Several foreign students were living in American homes with American students. It made it possible to learn English and American ways. Host families made it a point to introduce foreign students to historical places of interest as well as movies, church services and local stores and businesses.–The Folsom House was open for Christmas tours in Taylors Falls, Minn. Call for time of tours and days of week.–One of the pleasures of the season is taking a nighttime drive in local towns to enjoy the outside decorations for the holidays.–Most organizations have a Christmas celebration or party. Many have eliminated gift giving among members and selected giving to a charity or good cause during the holidays.–The roads may look good but don't be surprised by a slippery spot here and there.–Drivers are reminded to keep items for occasional emergency.–Many winter drivers make it a habit to listen to the weather reports and plan their outings accordingly.–Local schools are planning Christmas concerts or programs. Much preparation goes into these special school events.

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PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Good snowy morning to all of you. I woke up this chilly Sunday morning and stepped outside into some of that white stuff on the ground. It’s a little bit chilly on the old paws and I was wondering if I should get snow boots. At least the snow doesn’t get caught between my toes the way it does for Eli, poor guy gets these little balls of ice that Mom picks out. Time to send him for a bath and grooming, I think, and take care of those hairy feet of his.

Mom is relieved that deer season is over and has put away our orange vests – yeah, didn’t much like it anyway. We did find some deer parts across the way so Mom had troubles keeping us near home for a couple of days. She doesn’t understand that we like fresh meat. Anyway, out came the training collars again so we just brought some deer home with us so she couldn’t complain about us leaving the property. Bad thing is, she bagged up what we brought home and threw it in the garbage.

Well guess what – Rocky, our resident senior, was adopted by a great family that has a cabin in our area. He now has a new brother about the same age as him so they can grow old together. It was very touching when they met as they imliked mediately each other. The same day, the little puppy Daisy Mae was adopted and went to live in SuWaylon perior. Beautiful

Happy Tails

Await

Arnell Humane Leela is a 4-year-old, spayed, black Lab-mix female. She has been trying to get an adopter’s attention since Nov. 1, when she was surrendered to the shelter. It’s hard for an adult black dog to stand out amongst the other dogs in the kennel. Leela has tried barking, jumping, sitting quietly, pouting and pleading, “Me, me, pick me!” Leela lived with a family that lost their home in foreclosure. Grandma and Grandpa tried to help by taking her into their home, but she was too much for them. Leela likes to run and play. She loves a good play session with a willing and able canine friend; to run and tackle and chase. She is a girl who likes a good time and understands the rules of proper manners. Leela is looking for a home to share her lust for life.

Our annual shelter newsletter and membership mailing is ready to make its way to your mailbox.

By becoming a member of Arnell Memorial Humane Society you will help make the difference in the lives of stray, abandoned and surrendered pets. Your

715-349-2964 Our first snowfall brought in many of those tree rats back into Bear Country’s bird yard, I’m guessing for the sunflower seeds from the bird feeders now handing out there.

Now that the deck is up in the back of the house it didn’t take them long to explore it and to find out they had easy pickings from the feeder hanging there. It didn’t take long, however, to remedy that.

Our 12-year-old Boston terrier has been frustrated by them as they can also look into the patio door and check out what’s going on inside. The dog now spends most of her time guarding the door from those peeping toms, or should I say peeping tree rats. They run when she sits at the door, but they soon return. Her keeping them at bay seems to have slimmed down her waistline a bit, which she could use.

We had two small fawns come to the deer feeder on Wednesday night and these are the first we have seen for months. I’m hoping there will be more at the feeder. I think many deer in our area have been de-

Shelter

YAPpenings Sadie Carly left us on Saturday and Jaida goes for sure this coming Wednesday. Awesome, don’t you think? Other great news is that Wiggles the cat was adopted by a family of my friend Lucas, and Jerry Lewis left the shelter on Saturday to another wonderful family. Things are great!

This week I think I’m going to tell you about Parker, the young and handsome black Lab mix.

He has a very pretty splash of white on his chest that can only add to his personality. Poor Parker has been passed around a bit and hasn’t had the benefit of learning some manners, but he is very eager to please and just wants to be close and loved by humans. Parker is just full of life and has an abundance of love to give to that special person who adopts him. Poor Duke is still looking for a loving home. He is another dog that is full of life and love and just wants to be loved in return.

On the kitty side, I thought I’d focus on Waylan who is a gray and white cat around 3 years of age.

Waylan is a big boy and rolls and purrs for attention. He is definitely a lap cat so if you’re looking for someone to appreciate you and keep you warm over the winter, then he is the guy for you! His markings kind of remind me of one of our cats here membership is a great way to say you care about the less fortunate animals in our area. The support of a strong membership helps us provide shelter and a second chance to hundreds of animals each year. Look for your newsletter and membership renewal in the mail.

If you are not a current member and would like to support our animals through membership you can request a newsletter by calling the shelter, leaving an e-mail message at the Web site, or simply join by PayPal at our Join/Donate page online.

Your membership donation is tax-deductible and our lists are never shared or sold to anyone. One hundred percent of the donation goes toward the care of the animals at Arnell Memorial Humane Society.

The holiday rush has begun. With potential adopters searching for Barbies and PlayStations, the shelter was quiet last week. Porter, the black Lab pup, and a few cats went home, but there are many more waiting their turn.

Bosco and Leela, both black Lab mixes; Jenna, the Jack Russell mix; Oliver, the black puggle and Ollie, a poodle Maltese mix. There are too many cats to list, but Lanna and Cassidy are patiently waiting for a home that appreciates an adult cat with

Siren news pleted, it could be years before we see the deer we used to, if ever. Years ago on the farm we had sometimes up to 20 or more at the feeders. If the overkill continues, will they become an animal seen only on occasion?

Congratulations to Violet Beckmark on her 94th birthday, Saturday, Dec. 3. She celebrated her day at her home with many family and friends. Many more happy birthdays, Aunt Violet.

Sympathy to the family of Fay M. Nordin, who passed away Nov. 28.

Last Friday afternoon, Harold and Virginia Larson of Webster stopped in at Bear Country for a visit over lunch and coffee.

Check your papers gals, the area churches are now in full swing with their usual holiday cookie walks and bazaars. A great place to get your holiday baking done with no mess in your kitchen. Maybe you will even be lucky to find a special gift or two for that special someone on your list.

This Thursday, Dec. 8, is the Siren Schools

Borderline news Don Mishler was the big winner of the door prize at the recent meeting of the East Pine County Wanderers. Since the prize was a huge box of brownie mix and two jars of strawberry jam, we expect treats at our next meeting. Gladys Nelson provided the door prize and birthday cake. Sandi Drake was the November birthday celebrant.

Larry Kinblom has been moved from St. Luke’s in Duluth, Minn., to Golden Living Rehab in Superior.

He isn’t able to walk on his own yet, so he has a lot of work ahead. Keep the cards and prayers coming.

Reports from the registration places for the deer harvest are that registrations are down about half from last year. While the July storm was probably a factor, most is due to the large number of wolves and bear feeding off deer around here. Thanksgiving

guests at the Ron and Sharon Proffit household were the Kinbloms and the Gills that arrived on Tuesday, in time for some serious hunting. Lucas Kinblom shot a 6-pointer on Wednesday, which was all the deer that were taken. Everyone left for home on Sunday.

The 22nd-annual Memory Tree Community Christmas Party was held on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Dairyland Town Hall.

After a potluck supper, the children put on a short program. Then they sang Christmas songs until Santa arrived. They each had their picture taken with Santa. Bags of goodies were passed out to everyone, and a good time was had by all. Tammy Baer and Mary Picton attended Webster High School’s first basketball game of the season. Josh

at home n a m e d Princess and boy does she ever live up to that n a m e .

Princess, is round and roly-poly so Parker Mom calls her Princess Fat Butt because she’s bottom heavy.

I want to remind all of you that Adventures is hosting a buffet for the Humane Society on Sunday, Dec. 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adventures also has a Santa Paws tree where donations/supplies may be dropped off between now and Sunday, Dec. 11. There will also be a small silent auction with some great Christmas presents ideas so please come out and support us. You can make reservations, too, which is a bonus so hope to see you there!

“One of the happiest sights in the world comes when a lost dog is reunited with a master he loves.

You just haven’t seen joy till you have seen that.“ –Eldon Roark Have a great week, everyone, and stay warm.

Licks and tailwags!

The Humane Society of Burnett County is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org. 715866-4096. License No. 267335-DS. We’re on Facebook too!

personality and lap appeal. Orange tabby, longhair and short, mittened and tuxedoed, dominates the young cat room.

Also available are Guthrie, the cutest longhair brown tabby; Noel and Delilah, calico sisters; Wendy, a mitted black with white Leela tuxedo; Dulcie and Dempsey, siblings that look nothing alike. Dulcie is a tortie point Siamese mix and Dempsey is a shorthair brown tabby. Don’t take our word for it, check out their adorable faces on the Web site.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St. E., Amery, 715-268-7387 (PETS) or online: Arnellhumane.org.

Bev Beckmark kindergarten through sixth-grade winter program at 2 p.m. Why not take the time and come in and listen.

The kids always enjoy singing to a full gym.

Come enjoy the second-annual Christmas dinner at the Siren School on Saturday, Dec. 17, from noon to 2 p.m. This meal, like the Thanksgiving meal, is free to all who wish to partake. However, there are no carry-outs. The kids can visit Santa at the same time. This meal is put on by area churches and businesses.

Congratulations to elementary student Sara Baxter, middle schooler Kayla Eideh and high schooler Taylor Hagen for being chosen Siren Schools Students of the Week. Another week of great gals. Keep it up.

The Siren Lions held their annual Christmas party on Sunday afternoon at Jed’s for their members and families. A lunch was enjoyed and Santa gave each child a bag of goodies.

Bob Brewster Baer plays on the team. They lost to Turtle Lake 47 to 53. Cassandra Baer was home for the weekend.

She brought home some things from college because she will graduate (with honors) on Saturday, Dec. 17, from the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

The annual Markville Community Christmas Party was held last Saturday, and was a great success.

There were over 60 people who attended and everyone agreed the food was very delicious. The dice game was fun for all and to add to the festivities, the Schaafs donated some wonderful door prizes. We appreciate all for their hard work in making this a great party and extend gratitude to Mary and Frank for the nice prizes. We hope everyone who reads this article has a wonderful holiday season.

Birth announcements Born at Burnett Medical Center:

A boy, Benjamin David Lee, born Nov. 30, 2011, to David and Marci Lee, Grantsburg. Benjamin weighed 8 lbs., 6 oz. and was 21 inches long.

•••

Born at Osceola Medical Center:

A girl, Lily Grace Taylor, born Nov. 29, 2011, to Vicki and Brian Taylor, St. Croix Falls. Lily weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz.

•••

Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center:

A girl, Olivia Lucille Schmid, born Nov. 16, 2011, to Michael and Elizabeth Schmid, Centuria. Olivia weighed 6 lbs., 13 oz.

••• A girl, Emily Kay Marier, born Nov. 17, 2011, to Jamie and Joshua Marier, St. Croix Falls. Emily weighed 9 lbs., 14 oz.

••• A girl, Chloe Margaret Qualle-Saleh, born Nov. 21, 2001, to Barbara Qualle and Abe Saleh. Chloe weighed 6 lbs., 12 oz.

••• A girl, Alivia Lynn Morgan, born Nov. 25, 2011, to Heather Zacco and Robert Morgan, Luck. Alivia weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A girl, Ayana Ruth Volgren, born Nov. 27, 2011, to Jeremy and Erin Volgren, Balsam Lake. Ayana weighed 8 lbs., 12 oz.

Frederic Senior Hazel Center Hoffman My first item this week is to wish Ralph Severson a quick recovery. Ralph is one of Siren's pool players that comes here each week to challenge our Frederic Senior Center pool players. I will try to find out which center is ahead in wins.

In 500 this week, the four top winners were: first Mildred Ihrig; second Arnie Borchert; third Laryn Larson; fourth Micky Kilmore. Also our four top Spade players were: first Elli Erickson; second Arnie Borchert; third Lorna Erickson; fourth Nona Severson.

Also as I am going to be doing some traveling, I won’t be writing for a couple of weeks.

Orange

Fran Krause

LaVonne O'Brien

Jack and LaVonne O’Brien were shoppers in Rice Lake on Monday. On Friday they attended the Christmas party for all past and present chemo patients at St. Croix hospital.

Sincere sympathy to the family of Fay Nordin whose funeral was last Thursday in New Richmond with burial at Siren cemetery next to her husband, Carl Nordin.

Nancy Krause’s niece Maddie Ammend from Frederic spent the weekend with the Krause family. On Saturday they enjoyed the activities at the Fort.

Quite a few Orange 4-H members helped kids write letters to Santa at the Fort. Some also rang bells in Webster for Salvation Army.

Sunday evening Deanna, Mark and Brad brought homemade pizza over to Fran’s home to eat while watching the Badgers beat the Michigan State team.

They became the first Big Ten champions and will play Oregon in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2.

Margaret Connor is now a new resident at the assisted living home on CTH C. Margaret will be 95 years old in January. Her address is Margaret Connor - Countryside Acres Assisted Living - 5788 CTH C - Webster.

News from the Service SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Air Force Airman Bryan L. Chryst graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Chryst is the son of Brian Chryst of St. Croix Falls and Heidi Wichleman of Dresser.

He is a 2010 graduate of St. Croix Falls High School. - submitted

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Larsen Family Public Library After three months in our new facility, things are starting to settle down into a routine. We are overjoyed with the increasing patronage and circulation we are experiencing. It is so nice to welcome new faces and to see our regular patrons enjoying our comfortable, spacious library.

Holiday open house and used book sale

On Saturday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Friends will be celebrating the holiday season and the grand opening of their own bookstore with an offering of coffee, cider and cookies. Paperback books will be sold for 25 cents, hardcover books for 50 cents or a plastic bagful of books for $3. These are all books that have been donated since the move into the new facility and are organized by category to make your shopping easier.

Book donations

Gratitude is extended to all who have donated materials to our new library and to the Friends of the Library book sale. We really appreciate this.

Friends of the Library

The Friends donated $1,000 to purchase young adult materials for our new library. I have the books on the shelf and the movies are on the way. Much gratitude to the Friends for their generous donation for a much needed addition to our collection.

“Nature’s Gifts: Wild Rice and Berries from the Folle Avoine”

We have copies of the Friends new cookbook available at the library for $12 each. They make a

New policy

wonderful Christmas gift.

New committee

I am in the process of forming a fundraising committee to raise money to pay off the debt on our library building. I am seeking people that are not formally connected to the library - people that are perhaps members of other organizations that could help network throughout the community. If you are interested please call Patti at 715-866-7697.

Book clubs

There will be no book club meetings this month, neither the regular book club or the Mystery book club.

Food for Fines

During November and December, our library will accept nonperishable food donations instead of money for fines on materials. The food collected will be donated to the local food shelf.

Meeting room and study room

Our community rooms are being used by lots of interesting groups. If you or your group need space to meet call Patti at 715-866-7697 to see if you can reserve space. Our large meeting room holds up to 45 people and is even available after 7 p.m. when the library closes.

Preschool story time

We meet every Wednesday all year long at 10:30 a.m. for good stories, companionship and fun.

We have a new policy for loaning new books - if the book has additional patron holds on it, the checkout period will be seven days for books less than 300 pages and an easy read, or 14 days for more difficult and longer books.

Game table

We have a game table that was donated to our library in the study room. It can be used for Checkers, Chess, Backgammon and Cribbage.

Holiday hours

The library will be closed on Monday, Dec. 26, in observation of Christmas and also on Monday, Jan. 2, 2012, in observance of New Year’s Day.

New adult books

“Explosive Eighteen” by Janet Evanovich “Kill Alex Cross” by James Patterson “V is for Vengeance” by Sue Grafton “Lonestar Angel” by Colleen Coble “A Lancaster Country Christmas” by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Adult nonfiction

“Celebrating Advent” by Ann Hibbard

Large-print books

“We All Fall Down” by Michael Harvey “Damage Control” by Denise Hamilton “Unravelled” by Maggie Sefton

Lewis week and read the appropriate words) Sylvia Schaetzel and Marlene Nelson assisted Pastor Tom with the service.

Coffee, milk and lots of open-face sandwiches, cookies and fruit bread were served after the service

by Sheila Staples. Workers packed away craft items, many of them going into the Operation Christmas box. This is the second box of donations.

Many of the handmade ornaments were removed from the tree including crocheted angels with outspread wings, pastel hearts, clever milkweed pods with decorations, etc.

How quickly the sale items were sold or put into gift boxes. A bit of magic.

Sunday afternoon the annual conference of the

St. Croix Senior Center Tuesday was a full day, with exercise at 10 a.m., followed by Skip-Bo. In the afternoon, games were played. The winners in 500 cards were Charlie Mevissen, Artis Brown, Vern Lundstrom and Harold Richardson. Winners in Dominos were Ione and George Meixner and Gladis Weikert. The winning team in Hand and Foot was Bill McGrorty and Dottie Adams.

Thursday morning, we had our exercise then we played a game of Skip-Bo. In the evening, 500 cards were played with the winners being Ray Nelson,

Siren and Lewis United Methodist churches was held at the Siren church. A number of Lewis members attended.

The annual stockholders meeting of the InterCounty Cooperative Publishing Association will be held Thursday, Dec. 8, at 10:30 a.m. with dinner served at 11:30 a.m. at Hacker’s Lanes, Frederic.

Have you returned your registration card?

“V is for Vengeance” by Sue Grafton “Explosive Eighteen” by Janet Evanovich “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens

DVDs

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part II” “Speak” “Anne Frank” “Temple Grandin” “Girl with a Pearl Earring” “Sarah’s Key”

Children’s books

“Homer the Library Cat” by Reeve Lindbergh “No Two Alike” by Keith Baker “A House in the Woods” by Inga Moore “One Starry Night” by Lauren Thompson “The Magical Christmas Horse” by Mary Higgins Clark

Young adult books

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever” by Jeff Kinney “Inheritance” by Christopher Paolini All of the books were purchased with funds from the Friends of the Library.

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, Web site: webster.wislib.org. Online catalog: merlin.nwls.lib.wi.us/search.

Bernice Abrahamzon Our third little snow, this one the most actual snow. Here and there in country cemeteries memorial wreaths are being placed on loved ones graves.

The Christmas party of the NW Regional Writers is this Friday, Dec. 9, in the private dining room of the Pour House, Siren. Meet there at noon. Order off menu.

Marian Edler

Dave Anderson, Bob Norlander and Arleen Wendt.

Friday morning, Bridge was played. In the afternoon, Bingo was played.

Saturday was the Rivertown Holiday celebration.

We opened in the morning with hot rolls and coffee.

All day we held a bake sale. A noon lunch was served with grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. Santa Claus came and had his picture taken with the children. The St. Croix Falls School choir stopped and sang some Christmas carols for us. It was a very enjoyable day.

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It was a busy week at the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church, as the committee for the craft and bake sale was getting ready for the Saturday sale from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Good response with a lot of sales, but then there were lots of items. Sloppy joes, beverage and bars were served.

Saturday night was the bluegrass jam session.

There was a good turnout and groups kept singing and playing until 9:30 p.m., until someone reminded them “It’s still snowing you know,” and that broke up the evening.

Sunday was Communion Sunday with stewards Carl Warndahl and Marlene Nelson assisting. Scott Nelson and Marlene lit the Advent wreath candles (Starr and Carl Warndahl lit the Advent wreath last

Audio books

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

The Christmas Bug “Collect call from Scott,” said the operator. “Will you accept the charges?”

“Yes, yes ... I’ll take it!”

It was the call I’d been waiting for and the news I’d been hoping for as Christmas 1983 approached.

Our two sons, both stationed at Marine bases in North Carolina, would be coming home for Christmas. They had found a few opportunities to get together during the period of time they were stationed near each other but the prospects for both of them getting home for Christmas seemed very remote.

“We’ll be coming in the Bug,” explained Scott, the older brother and career Marine. “As soon as I pick up Mark we’ll be heading north. Expect us Christmas Eve.” I shuddered at the thought of them driving such a distance in that old Volkswagen, a 1970 model that had already turned over twice in Scott’s cross-country treks between bases. I also worried about the weather because we had al-

ing and remove layers when necessary to avoid overheating, perspiration, and subsequent chill. Do not ignore shivering as it is an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors. Tell relatives and friends where you are going and when you expect to return.

To learn more about winter-weather health and safety go to: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/InjuryP r e v e n t i o n / We a t h e r R e l a t e d / WinterCold/index.htm.

A view

through.”

As the snow turned into blizzard conditions I prayed fervently. The situation was definitely out of my control. Busying myself in the kitchen, I envisioned the hand of God on that little VW Bug as it headed into the storm.

Finally, about 5 p.m., came the call.

They had made it as far as Chicago. Yes, the weather was “pretty bad” and they had “a few problems” with the car but they were confident they could make it.

“What kind of problems are you having with the car?” I asked as I handed the other phone to my husband. I heard him offering them some advice about how to fix the heater and how to keep the windshield from freezing up.

I didn’t want to hear any more. Hopefully, they would find a place to spend the night, the weather would improve and they could do the last lap in daylight.

We went to bed but slept fitfully.

Just after midnight, as the blizzard raged on, the front door burst open and two familiar voices yelled, “Anybody

home?”

Shrieks of joy and relief suddenly filled the house as we raced to the front door. After a round of warm hugs we heard the whole story, the part Mom didn’t need to know until then …

Ignoring my advice, they had driven straight through … 23 hours in mostly blizzard conditions. The heater problem left younger brother Mark huddled in a “mummy bag” on the passenger side, next to a window that would not shut tight. The vinyl-covered seats had cracked in the cold, a minor inconvenience by Marine standards.

In some respects, they seemed to have relished the challenge of coming through a blizzard in a 1970 Volkswagen Bug. Lightweight with its rear engine, “It was kind of like driving a snowmobile,” said the Marine who had always loved winter and missed a lot of them in his military career.

For me, it was the best Christmas ever, thanks to answered prayers and a trusty old Volkswagen Bug.

from the lake Pat Solomonson ready been inundated with snow and according to the calendar, it wasn’t even officially winter yet.

After saying a little prayer for a safe journey, I turned my attention to Christmas preparations. It would be fun to start cooking for these “jarheads” again.

When the call came saying they were actually on their way I fought worry, for we in the north country were now in the throes of what was to become the worst winter on record.

“Have you got mitts? And heavy socks? Stocking caps?” I wanted to know. I visualized them patiently listening, then totally ignoring this long-distance motherly advice.

“Now please,” I begged, “promise me you will not attempt to drive straight

SIREN - OPEN PARTY

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CLOSED DEC. 23 - DEC. 26, 2011

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Winter has arrived! Here are some friendly reminders to help make your winter go smoothly. Please remember to

(such as granola bars) • first aid kit and any medications you require • tool kit If you are using heat from a fireplace, woodstove or a space heater, be sure to properly ventilate the device to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and consider getting a carbon monoxide detector.

When spending time outdoors, it is important to dress warmly and stay dry.

Layer clothing, preferably wind resistant, to reduce loss of body heat caused by the wind. Wear layers of loose-fitting cloth-

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Winter-weather health and safety tips

get your furnace checked annually for efficient and safe operation, get a winterweather service checkup for your vehicle and create winterweather kits for your home and vehicle. Some items to include are: • candles, matches • flashlights • battery-operated radio • extra batteries (for the flashlight, radio and the cellular telephone) • blankets or sleeping bags • extra clothing • high-calorie nonperishable food

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Polk County Health Notes

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Festival’s Featured Artist - Bob Fedderly ST. CROIX FALLS – Festival Theatre’s featured artist for the week is Bob Fedderly, a natural entertainer, yet an actor without much actual stage time.

“Inspecting Carol” marks Fedderly ‘s second time on stage at Festival Theatre, and while he is still new to the world of acting, he is also a delightful addition to the cast. When asked what two aspects of theatrical training he would like to share with readers, Fedderly said, “I don’t think I have two aspects of training.”

“Bob’s wit was the driving force to get him onstage,” said Executive Director Danette Olsen. “He’s been highly active with Festival Theatre for many years, serving on our board and on a series of committees. Having Bob in any meeting is always a blast! He just makes everything more fun, and the same is true in our production of ‘Inspecting Carol.’”

You may have seen Fedderly at a number of Festival Theatre productions, at fundraisers and special events. He has been an active supporter of the theater and company for many years, ever since he and his wonderful wife, Jane, saw their first Festival production. “I loved

the atmosphere at the thefictional Soapbox Playater. The performances are house which is under fiscal always great, and the stage, duress. As the plot reveals the history of the building, the strained and stressful it added such an ambiance. moments that can pile on I knew I just wanted to be a during the rehearsal part of this magical place.” process, the relationships Soon after, Fedderly began that develop when a group serving on committees of people work together, and supporting the theater and the hovering possibilin multiple ways. Then in ity of financial collapse, the 2009, Olsen was able to peraudience gets a glimpse of suade him to take his try at a heightened version of the acting in “Our Town” reality faced by many small which was part of the Big arts organizations. “HavRead. ing honest people like Bob “Bob’s help behind the on stage just adds to the Bob Fedderly scenes at Festival has been meta-context of the show, invaluable over the past and helps audiences relate years. As we all got to know him better, to these very real characters,” said Olsen. we even learned that he gives Eric Clap“This has been one of the best experiton a run for the money when it comes ences of my life,” said Fedderly, “I was so time for karaoke. It’s great to see he’s also excited to work with such a funny script such a strong addition on stage,” said and with such an amazing director and Olsen. “He’s so much fun up there and cast. With these talents combined, it’s just his chemistry with the cast is fantastic!” great synergy. And I love watching and Of course Festival Theatre’s present pro- hearing people respond to this show.” duction, “Inspecting Carol,” is a classic Fedderly and his wife saw “Inspecting example of art imitating life as Fedderly Carol” when it was first produced at Fesplays one of the founding members of the tival Theatre in 2000. “It was 11 years

ago and it was a riot!” said Fedderly. “I hope that I can inspire people the way the last production inspired me to get involved with Festival Theatre, or at least to laugh really hard for a couple hours.”

When Fedderly is not fully devoting his time to Festival Theatre, he manages to find time to read, to travel, and sing, although he noted that his singing occurs “mostly in the shower.” During his dayto-day working life, Fedderly is a Realtor for Edina Realty in Forest Lake, Minn., and is always busily trying to help people find their perfect homes. When asked how he managed to work with rehearsals six to eight hours a day, six days a week for three weeks, Fedderly said with a smile, “I like to stay busy.”

Fedderly can be seen sporting the classic Bob Cratchit muttonchops in the role of Phil during Festival Theatre’s production of “Inspecting Carol.” You can find out more about performance dates and ticket availability at 715-483-3387 or by visiting www.festivaltheatre.org. The show runs through Friday, Dec. 23, and is sure to steal the hearts of Festival audiences a second time.

Realtor® Ring Day being held Dec. 9

POLK COUNTY – Realtor® Ring Day debuted last Christmas season with a few hundred real estate professionals bell ringing for the Salvation Army in Minnesota and North Dakota. This year, Wisconsin Realtors will be joining the ranks along with thousands nationwide.

Realtor® Ring Day 2011 will be held all day on Friday, Dec. 9, in Wisconsin and eight other states, from Wyoming to Rhode Island. Realtor® Ring Day was cre-

ated to give real estate professionals an opportunity to support a cause that is dear to them: housing. Kettle donations support the Salvation Army’s causes including supporting the local shelter, Serenity Home, in Balsam Lake.

“Last year’s Realtor® Ring Day helped raise nearly $190,000 worth of kettle donations in Minnesota and was one of the largest single-day volunteer efforts in Salvation Army history,” said Lt. Col. Daniel

Sjögren, commander of the Salvation Army, Northern Division. “This year’s event is going to be bigger and better thanks to the giving spirit of Realtors® locally and nationwide. Because of their efforts, the Salvation Army can shelter more people in need.”

The Salvation Army in Polk County has a goal to raise $80,000 from its Red Kettle Campaign to help with the many ways Salvation Army helps those in the local

community in need. Participating in the Realtor Ring Day is one more way of helping to achieve this goal this season.

If you would like to donate but can’t get to a red kettle during the holiday season you can send your tax-deductible donation to: 200 Polk Plaza, Balsam Lake, WI 54810. - from the Salvation Army

Outdoor lighting winners announced in the Christmas Card Village TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – The Taylors Falls Lighting Festival Committee is proud to announce the 2011 winners of the outdoor holiday lighting. Judging was done by an independent committee the opening evening of the festival. The committee extends gratitude to each home and downtown business that decorated for the holidays, Diane Arnold and committee for placing the luminarias and the firemen for decorating the lamppost.

In the residential category, the honor of first place went to the home of Jody Lusk and Jeremy Hansen, 787 Colby St., for their decorating of house and yard in holiday lights and figures. Steve and Diane Gall, 400 Military Road, won second place for the seasonal lighting on their home and yard. Third place went to Brian and Sandra Berg, 1133 Mulberry St., for creative use of holiday lighting directing on-

lookers to the centerpiece placement of the nativity scene. Kym Groves, 396 Colby St., received fourth place for the simple icicle lights outlining her home, making it a Christmas-card-perfect scene, delighting all who pass by.

Chisago House Restaurant received first place in the commercial category for their many lights and creative use of candy canes and bells, a welcome to all who come to Taylors Falls. The Border Bar takes the honor of best commercial windows with winter village scenes.

The popular Taylors Falls 2011 ornament will continue to be for sale for $10 in nine downtown stores through December.

This is ornament Number 2 in a new series. The She Shop also sells Number 1 and 2 of this new series as a pair for $16. submitted

Sisters assist Habitat for Humanity

Sisters Kayla and Hannah Karl (L to R) assisted at the Thrivent Builds/Habitat for Humanity home in Luck on Saturday, Dec. 3. The duo spent all morning varnishing woodwork and helping out on the project, along with several other volunteers. – Photo by Greg Marsten

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SCF Lions donated to food shelf

Larson Auto Centers sponsors annual Christmas dinner

The St. Croix Falls Lions donated $500 to the St. Croix Falls food shelf. Shown accepting the check from Lions President Ernie Maumann is Eloise Anderson. – Photo submitted

Upcoming TRAILS Conference and Powwow teach Native youth value of traditional lifestyle

HERTEL - The 28th-annual St. Croix Traditions Respecting American Indian Life Styles Youth Conference is being held at the St. Croix Tribal gym in Hertel on Friday, Dec. 9. Youth from area tribal communities gather to “Walk the Red Road”—a reference to pursuing a lifestyle of traditions and values. Participants come away with a renewed commitment and an understanding that they are not alone on their journey.

Youth With Leadership Skills is the focus of this year’s conference. In an open forum directed by community leaders, participants will be invited to talk about the issues they face: drug abuse, tobacco prevention, relationships, setting a standard of excellence in school, and participation in extracurricular activities. Mark Soulier, the St. Croix TRAILS coordinator, reported, “Over the years, I have seen a growing participation throughout the communities. I have seen, firsthand, how

active participation in the TRAILS program, through the recognition of moral values, our language, our ceremonies and through the appreciation of the gifts of the Great Spirit, how these young people grow up to become the leaders of their tribes.”

In honor of the youth, the St. Croix Tribe will host a powwow on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 1 to 10 p.m., at the St. Croix Tribal Center gymnasium in Hertel that is open to the public. Admission is $3 (elders and children under 5 are free), and there will be traditional dancing and singing as well as authentic Native American food, clothing, jewelry and crafts for sale. Raffle tickets may be purchased at the event for prizes that include a 32” LCD television, hotel stays, dinner packages and more.

For more information, contact Soulier at 800-236-2195, Ext. 5310, or Veronica Kinsel, Tribal Youth Programs, at Ext. 5311. - submitted

Terry Larsen, of Larsen Auto Centers, presents Webster band director Julie Strang with a check to cover the cost of their annual Christmas dinner. This music department fundraiser has been sponsored by Larsen for over 30 years. It has become a tradition for the school and community. This year’s dinner and concert will be Monday, Dec. 12. Dinner will be served from 4:45-6:30 p.m., and the concert is at 7 p.m. – Photo submitted

Scouts complete fundraiser The Frederic Cub Scouts have completed their annual evergreen sale fundraiser.

The Cub Scouts sold poinsettias and various evergreen products including wreaths, garlands and door swags. A total of 18 Scouts participated in the fundraiser, and Trent Zenzen, third grade, was the top seller accounting for over 25 percent of the total sales.

Trent’s effort is much appreciated and will go a long way in funding fun activities for the Frederic pack. Photo submitted

December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month Drugged drivers in Wisconsin face severe punishments SPOONER — December marks the eighth anniversary of the enactment of a Wisconsin law that prohibits drivers from having any detectable amount of a controlled substance in their system, such as marijuana or cocaine, while operating a motor vehicle. The law also makes the legal penalties for drugged driving the same as drunken driving.

The Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies are continuing their efforts to combat drugged driving.

“Law enforcement officers throughout the state have extensive training and experience in procedures that effectively identify drivers impaired by alcohol. Officers use many of those same procedures to identify drugged drivers,” says Wisconsin State Patrol Captain Jeff Frenette of the Northwest Region. “Drivers who exhibit behav-

ior or symptoms indicative of drug use must submit to a blood test that determines the presence of drugs. Refusing to submit to the blood test means an automatic revocation of the driver’s license.”

In addition to illegal drugs, the overuse or abuse of medications, especially when combined with alcohol, will often cause impaired driving. State law prohibits drivers from being “under the influence of any drug to a degree which renders him or her incapable of safely driving or under the combined influence of an intoxicant and any other drug to a degree which renders him or her incapable of driving safely.”

“Drivers under the influence of drugs, alcohol or a combination of the two are deadly threats to everyone on the road,” says Frenette. “That’s why officers never take a break, even over the holiday season, from arresting those who choose to get behind the wheel while impaired.” — from WDOT

NABA installs 2011-2012 board of directors

HAYWARD — The Northland Area Builders Association had the installation of its officers and board of directors during their annual installation banquet held Nov. 8 in Hayward.

The 2011-2012 officers are President Ed Peterson, Peterson Construction, Webster; President-elect Joe Gendrich, Culligan Water Conditioning of Ashland; secretary Rick Harder, Northern Paradise Homes, Trego; treasurer Jim Perlick, Jim Perlick Construction, Shell Lake; and past President Russ Smith, Russ Smith Construction, Hayward.

The 2011-2012 directors are Todd Knutson, Johnson Bank, Hayward; Jason Olsen, Peoples Bank, Hayward; Jeremy Lindgren, Arrow Building Center, Spooner;

Kevin Miller, Northland Recreational Homes, Hayward; and Tyler Crotteau, Muller Heating and Mechanical, Rice Lake.

The Northland Area Builders Association is a nonprofit trade association serving Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer, and Washburn counties in Northwest Wisconsin. Chartered in 1989, the Northland Area Builders Association is comprised of industry professionals united and dedicated to preserving and promoting safe and affordable housing for the people of Northwest Wisconsin. For additional information please contact Jennifer Johnson, executive officer, at 715-259-3486 or naba@centurytel.net. — from NABA

Tavern League Saferide program use continues to grow MADISON – The Tavern League of Wisconsin is pleased to announce that participation in its SafeRide Program continues to grow. The new numbers show 68,678 free SafeRides were given last year, up 6,320 from the previous year. The increase is in spite of a decline in business being experienced throughout the state at onpremise establishments.

The Tavern League of Wisconsin works with the Department of Transportation to administer the SafeRide Program. It exists to provide free rides home to tavern customers who may feel too impaired to drive. Currently, 54 local tavern leagues maintain programs in their communities.

The program originated in 1985 and began to receive state funding in 1999. Usage by patrons has increased every year. Last year, over 1,600 Tavern League members

participated in the program.

This last year from October 2010 to September 2011, the Burnett County SafeRide Foundation has given 729 people a ride home, 3,393 miles at an experience of $10,085, which does not include advertising or administrative expenses. A large part of their fundraising comes from their golf tournament held in August with several sponsors and a good turnout. Look for next year’s tourney, it is a great cause and you can see it does a great service to the area.

None of this would be possible without the state Tavern League of Wisconsin’s matching funds. Anyone interested in driving or donating money can contact Kris Peterson, 715-220-2416, and he can help get the ball rolling. - submitted

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Rivertown Holiday

St. Croix Falls

The St. Croix Falls High School choir escorted Santa throughout downtown last Saturday, Dec. 3, as part of the annual Rivertown Holiday celebration. They stopped at various spots to sing to store owners and people about town. The choir ended at the SCF Senior Center and serenaded visitors gathering there. The Rivertown Holiday was made possible by Abrahamsons Nursery, Sarah Adams, the Ambassador Committee/Falls Chamber, the American Swedish Institute Male Chorus, Les Anderson, Balsam Lake Faith Lutheran Children’s Choir, Bank Mutual, Dave Brian for Bont Chiropractic, Bont Chiropractic, the BID, Coffee Time, Judy Dittrich, Falls Chamber of Commerce, David Frank/Red Bird Music, Festival Theatre, Kellie Flaherty and family, Friends of the St. Croix Falls Library, the Herrick family, the Inter-County Leader, Johnson Motors, Deb Kravig, the Klein family, Lake O’ the Dalles Girl Scout Troops No. 50398 and No. 54032, Lucky Cup coffee shop, Luhrs/Bjö rnson Artworks, MarketPlace Foods, Carole Martens, Mix 105 Radio, the McCurdy family, Joyce and Darryl Nelson, Northern Lights 4-H, Danette Olsen and Jim Morte, River Valley Graphics, The Rivertown Holiday Committee, SCF City Council and Public Works, SCF High School Concert Choir/Shawn Gudmunsen, SCF Regional Medical Center, SCF Senior Center members, St. Croix Falls Lions Club members, St. Croix Falls royalty, St. Croix Valley Brass, the St. Croix Falls Public Library, Uptown Floral, The Vegetarian restaurant and the Bedi family, Wal-Mart, With August, Sharon Wampfler, Jay and Tara Yunker family, downtown business owners and Santa. - Photos submitted

St. Croix Falls third-annual Rivertown Holiday weekend, Dec. 3 and 4, kicked off with cookie decorating and a bake sale at the SCF Library. Kids of all ages enjoyed decorating and eating holiday cookies. Santa visited and chatted and the St. Croix Falls royalty helped the kids with their cookies.

P H O TO S AT LEFT: On Sunday, visitors to the Overlook enjoyed Santa’s company, friendly sheep and a kids concert, all around a warm fire.

It’s never too early to start working on Santa’s “good” list, and never too late! Santa was busy all over town on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 3 and 4, helping to celebrate the holiday season.

Overlook activities were decorated with freshly falling snow. The St. Croix Falls Brass welcomed everyone with carols. Local 4-H and Girl Scout troop members helped decorate donated Christmas trees with pinecone ornaments.

Revelers enjoyed a candlelit concert by the American Swedish Institute Men’s Choir and warm drinks around the fire pit.

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Santa Day

Six-month-old Gavin Nelson looked at Santa with his long white whiskers somewhat apprehensively while sitting on his lap during Santa’s visit to Grantsburg last weekend.

Grantsburg

by Priscilla Bauer Leader staff writer GRANTSBURG – The sound of ho, ho, ho could be heard at the Crex Convention Center last Saturday morning when Santa made an early arrival in Grantsburg much to the delight of the over 200 children who came to whisper their Christmas wishes in his ear.

The Grantsburg Area Chamber of Commerce sponsored Santa’s Saturday, Dec. 3, visit with local businesses donating goodies and treats.

Santa helpers were on hand with all the supplies needed for children and their families to make their very own ornaments, create greeting cards, and to give assistance in writing those important letters to Saint Nick.

Visitors enjoyed oranges, apples, cookies, milk and hot chocolate while waiting to have photos taken with Santa.

Later, back at the workshop, Santa’s elves would be busy making the pictures into buttons for proud parents and grandparents to wear, a gift sure to make the season more merry.

Grantsburg Area Chamber President Nicki Peterson was one of Santa’s helpers last Saturday during Santa Day at the Crex Convention Center. Peterson and other volunteers showed children how to make ornaments, greeting cards and even gave assistance in writing those important letters to Saint Nick.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Gracie and Grant Larson laughed as the jolly old fellow asked the siblings what they wanted for Christmas.

The Grantsburg Legion provided family fun with hayrides around Grantsburg during Santa Day.

Cozy Country Christmas

Centuria

CENTURIA - It was a perfect setting for Centuria’s Cozy Country Christmas events on Saturday, Dec. 3. They had activities throughout the village, as well as a lighting parade and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus later in the day. Just as the parade was beginning, the snow began to fall, right on cue, making it seem like a scene in a snow globe.

Photos by Greg Marsten Even the livestock got into the act, as these parade-goers showed.

The Centuria royalty was front and center in the Centuria Christmas parade, which featured lots of well-lit floats.

It wasn’t just the kids getting into the holiday spirit in Centuria S a t u r d a y, Dec. 3.

Vada Tolgren, 10, Clear Lake, tried her hand at the beanbag toss in the Centuria Library.

Madison Paulsen, 6, was right at home with Santa.

Tanner Peterson, 4, was pretty proud of his gingerbread man tattoo. He was spotted waiting patiently in line to see Santa Claus in Centuria.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Santa Day

Luck Santa had his hands full with these folks, who were not afraid to dream big.

Pictured (L to R) are: Linnea Aamold, 14, Devin Saenz, 11, Santa Claus and Larissa Succo, 14.

The Santa train set display at the Luck Museum Saturday, Dec. 3, gave this young man a delighted thrill.

Noah Saenz, 3, Luck, had a good time with Santa.

Photos by Greg Marsten

Kyrie King, 3, Luck, had a hard time containing her “Santa smile.”

Santa Day

Siren

Siren students created this gingerbread house, which proved very popular for the kids. Some of them didn’t want to leave.

Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance Saturday, Dec. 3, in Siren at the School Commons. The annual event had over 125 kids in attendance, and was sponsored by the Siren Lioness Club. Siren students also helped with the displays and arrangements. The Siren Lioness volunteers also offered lunch and treats to the more than 230 people who attended.

Lillie Armstrong, 3, was dressed for the occasion in her gorgeous red dress. She is sitting on her mother, Erin Schoepke’s, lap flanked by the famous Claus couple.

Photos by Greg Marsten

Santa and Mrs. Claus enjoyed this trio of youngsters, who couldn’t stop smiling. Pictured (L to R) are: Lucy, 2, Emma, 4, Mrs. Claus, Lydia, 4 months and Santa Claus.

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Santa, horses and presents – It's Christmas at the Fort

by Carl Heidel Leader staff writer DANBURY - Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park was alive with activity last weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 3 and 4, as the Burnett County Historical Society hosted its annual Christmas at the Fort celebration. Santa listened to kids dreams, horses pulled wagons filled with happy riders, elves painted kids’ faces, a special store let the kids shop for presents for special people, a storyteller told how muskrat lost his beautiful tail, and food and music were offered in abundance.

Perhaps best of all, the celebration will repeat this coming Saturday, Dec. 10, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Each year at the beginning of December, the BCHS transforms the historical park into a holiday scene that manages to blend elements of the 18th and 19th century fur trade era and Burnett’s history of schools, blacksmiths and logging with modern hot dogs, Christmas trees with electric lights and visitors taking digital photos.

Take a peek at the scene with some of these photos.

The best part of the wagon ride might be the end where you get to jump out of the wagon and into Grandpa’s waiting arms.

No holiday celebration would be complete without Santa and Mrs. Santa, and they were on hand to listen as the children talked about their Christmas wish lists.

The pathway to the Karlsborg one-room schoolhouse was marked with colorful holiday bows.

Angelique invited visitors to come and listen to stories and tales from the past.

In a scene that feels a bit like the fur trade era, a re-enactor enjoys the warmth of the outdoor wood fire.

Lulu Rosenberg came with her grandparents from Minneapolis, Minn., to get her face decorated by an elf.

There was even a special place where you could sit and write a letter to Santa. It even had a special mailbox with guaranteed delivery directly to the North Pole.

Brynn Willert from Pine City, Minn., was having a wonderful time with all that was happening.

Photos by Carl Heidel

What few realize is that cookie dunking is a distinct art form, and each dunker has his or her own unique style. Brayden Miraslaw of Danbury prefers the full fist dunk to ensure that the cookie is properly soaked.

A wagon load of visitors came down the incline and into the Indian village near the fur post forts.

A silent auction in the museum gave visitors a chance to bid on presents for Christmas giving.

The rumor is that Santa’s elves created a special store just for kids, a place they could visit to buy gifts for Mom and Dad and other special people. Obviously it was a fascinating place.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Frederic Public Library: the early history of the land it rests on

by Don McLure Special to the Leader FREDERIC - This year we celebrate the 75th year of the Frederic Public Library.

The library was founded in 1936 and opened the doors of its current building in June 2004. The plot of land the current library rests on has a long history. This article describes the early history of that property – before it became a library – and the activity of William Ackmann, one of the first to build on the site. If you have history that adds to the story, please contact the writer of this article.

The William Ackmann family came to Frederic in 1903. This makes them early settlers in the village. The initial land auction that created Frederic had been held less than two years earlier, on Nov. 21, 1901, following the completion of the railroad from Dresser to what is now Frederic.

At the time, Frederic was the end of the railroad line. The railroad wasn’t extended north until 10 years later. The path of what was then the railroad is now the Gandy Dancer State Trail.

The Davis and Starr Lumber Co. owned all the land that would become Frederic.

Today we would call the company the “developer” of Frederic. Frederic was named for Wm. J. Starr’s young son. All the lots were laid out before the sale in 1901. According to county records, the company sold two lots to William’s wife, Sophie Ackmann, by certificate in November 1903 and by deed in February 1905. They added a third lot in August 1910. The three Ackmann lots are the most westerly lots on the south side of Oak Street in the “downtown” block between Traffic Avenue and Hwy. 35.

The Frederic Library occupies two of the three Ackmann lots, one of the lots acquired in 1905 and the 1910 lot. The Ackmanns were said to have built a two-story hotel on their property. The current library is located on the same property as the former hotel. The third Ackmann lot is a narrow and very shallow triangular lot; it is the current site of the Skol Bar and Grill, located just west of the library. But here there is some mystery: the two buildings in the first photo which later became the Ackmann House Hotel are located on the 1910 Ackmann lot and the adjacent 1905 lot, but the buildings predate the 1908 fire and thus predate the Ackmann’s full ownership of 1910 lot. Perhaps the Ackmanns built both buildings, with one being built before they

This photo is a view looking east on Oak Street from near Traffic Avenue. It shows the theater with a lighter front and the Theater Cafe (the former barbershop and H. P. Turner Store) to the west (closer to the viewer). The cafe retained the brick face of the original brick building.

LEFT: The Frederic Public Library today. – Photos submitted owned full title to the lot. The price recorded for the 1910 sale was low enough to suggest that they were not purchasing a building, or they may have purchased the lot with a building on it. We may never know. They were said to have also built a house for the family in back.

William’s full name was Heinrich Friedrich Wilhelm Ackmann, but he was known as William or Bill. William was born in Ontarioville, Ill., on April 15, 1865.

He married Sophie Homeier, on June 18, 1891, in Waverly, Iowa. The family lived in Waverly until they moved to Frederic. At the time of the move, William was 38 years old. The couple had one son and two daughters. A third daughter was born in Frederic in 1906. Mr. Ackmann was a house painter and decorator by trade.

William’s son, Ernest, grew up and developed an oil delivery business. While he was away serving in the Army during WWI, William sold Ernest’s business and his team of horses. The selling of the business was a source of much friction and was an oft-repeated story in the family in later years. Ernest married Agnes Wikstrom of Frederic (1898-1925). The couple lived with his parents in the first years of their marriage. Together they had one child, Leslie Wayne Ackmann. Following his first wife’s passing, Ernest married again and had three more sons, but none are connected to our story of Frederic.

William Ackmann was very active in the Frederic community. He was instrumental in the organization of the volunteer fire de-

partment and served as the second fire chief. He was one of the organizers of the Farmers State Bank when it was formed in 1915 and served as a director of the bank for several years. He also served on the village board. Farmers State Bank was located on Oak Street a few lots east of the Ackmann property; the lot is now occupied by the Dale A. Johnson, CPA, and the Grindell Law offices. The bank was able to remain open through the Great Depression of the 1930s, unlike many other banks.

The Ackmann House Hotel building was the first “recreation center” in Frederic. It housed Frederic's first bowling alley and had billiard and pool tables. Regrettably the structure burned in 1916. The Ackmanns rebuilt on the site, this time using brick rather than wood construction. A photo of the pre-1916-fire wooden Ackmann House (not shown) has a large sign that reads MOTION PICTURES; silent films were very popular starting around 1905.

To give some historical context, the radio didn’t come along until 1920, with radio significantly reducing the appeal of silent films. The brick building was long known as the Frederic Auditorium. A barbershop and the H. P. Turner store were located just to the west of the auditorium. The shop and store used the same construction style as the auditorium and are presumed to have been built at the same time. A photo of the building from the southwest shows the much larger depth of the auditorium compared to the shop and store.

The Ackmann House Hotel with the Ackmann family (L to R): Mathilda Louise, middle daughter, 1897-1990; Sophie, mother, 1867-1937; Linda, oldest daughter, 1892-1987; Agnes, youngest daughter, 1906-1974; William, father; and Ernest, son, 1893-1985. The photo was taken about 1911, as judged from young Agnes’ stature. The hotel now has a unified roofline but retains the staggered windows from the two buildings shown, in the first photo, above right.

The Ackmanns sold the property to an out-of-state investor in June 1918. At the time William was 53 years old. The property changed owners several times in the next 10 years. A second fire, the Frederic Theater fire, damaged the building, destroying the roof, but the brick walls survived.

The Ackmann family, William, his wife Sophie, and daughter Linda, moved from Frederic to St. Paul in 1923. They lived there until Sophie’s death in 1937. Mr. Ackmann, then 73, and daughter Linda returned to Frederic in 1938. He built a home in the northeast of Frederic in 1945 on Benson Road just south of Park. Linda had been stricken with polio at age 13 (in 1905).

She was wheelchair-bound for the rest of her life and never married. William died on May 26, 1958, at 93 years of age. William’s two eldest daughters, Linda Ackmann and Mrs. Mathilda E. (Martin) Hansen, continued to live in the Frederic area until their deaths, in 1987 and 1990, respectively.

The history of the property in its middle years is less well documented.

If you have any information on the Frederic Theater or any of the other businesses that occupied this site before the library was built, please contact this writer.

Much of the family information in this article plus the second through fourth photos came from Sue Blattner, great-granddaughter of William and Sophie Ackmann.

Her father, Dale Ackmann, was Ernest Akmann’s youngest son and William’s grandson. Sue contacted the writer as a direct result of the collection of photos in “Frederic in Photos, the Early Years,” recently printed by the writer. See copies of the book in the Frederic Library or at the Frederic Historical Society’s collection in the Frederic Depot, or read about the book in the article in the Aug. 11, 2011, InterCounty Leader.

If you have photos of early Frederic, please contact the writer, Don McClure, at 715-689-2902 or mccluredj@hotmail.com so they can be included in the second edition of the book. Larger photos from this article are available from the writer.

This photo was taken about 1960. The theater marquee is visible.

The brick structure built on the Ackmann property following the fire The brick structure built following the fire in 1916 as seen from the southwest and the same view as seen today. The in 1916. The two sections on the left became the auditorium; the two narrower sections on the right are a barbershop and the H. P. Turner shorter section on the left is a barbershop and the H. P. Turner store; the deeper section on the right is the auditorium. store.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Webb Lake Community Club donates to local concerns

Dotty Busby, representative of Webb Lake First Responders, accepts a $2,000 check from Mary Colvin, WLCC.

Laurie Heller, Burnett County Salvation Army, accepts a $1,000 check from Sharon Rochel, board member of the Webb Lake ComDottie McMahon accepts a $500 check on behalf of the Bur- munity Club. The goal of the WLCC is the betterment of the comnett County Relay for Life American Cancer Society, team munity. Contributions made are possible due to the work of WLCC name Peregrine Saints, from Pat Burns, WLCC board mem- members and the cooperation and generosity of those who supber. port the club.

Photos submitted

Interstate Park news Wrap up the great outdoors as a gift this year ST. CROIX FALLS – The 2012 admission stickers to Wisconsin state parks and forests are available now at park and forest offices and Department of Natural Resources serv-

ice centers.

Some of the best recreational opportunities and most scenic areas in Wisconsin can be found in Wisconsin’s state parks, forests and trails. If you know someone who enjoys camping, hiking, biking, swimming, skiing or wildlife watching, then a $25 sticker would make a great gift (nonresidents, $35; senior citizens, $10). The stick-

ers provide access to more than 60 state park, forest and recreation area properties across Wisconsin and are valid through the end of 2012.

Admission stickers can be ordered over the phone by calling the DNR at 888-9367463 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. or purchased in St. Croix Falls at the Ice Age Center at Interstate Park. The Glacier’s

Gifts shop in the Ice Age Center also has a wide range of nature-oriented gifts and stocking stuffers, including books, apparel, stuffed animals and memberships to the nonprofit group Friends of Interstate Park.

For more information call the park at 715483-3747 or visit online at www.friendsofinterstatepark.org.

CLIP & SAVE

EVERY MON. Amery Senior Center

EVERY TUES.

EVERY WED.

EVERY THURS.

• Wii golf, 9 a.m.

EVERY FRI.

EVERY SAT.

Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., 715-268-6605

Frederic Senior Center • Spades, 1 p.m.

Luck Senior Center Siren Senior Center 715-349-7810

St. Croix Falls Senior Center

• Pokeno, 1 p.m.

• 500, 6:30 p.m.

• Open 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Open 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Open 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Dime Bingo, 1 p.m.

• Monthly Senior Meeting, 3rd Tues.

• Cribbage, a.m.

• 500 Cards, 1 p.m.,

• Dining at 5, Every 1st Thursday

• Spades, 1 p.m.,

• Exercise, 10-11 a.m.

• Skip-Bo, 11 a.m.-Noon • 500, 6:30-10 p.m.

• Bridge, 10 a.m.-Noon • Bingo, 1st & 3rd Friday, 1-3 p.m.

• Exercise, 10-11 a.m.

• Skip-Bo, 11 a.m.-Noon • 500 Cards & Dominoes, 12:30-4 p.m.

• Pokeno, 1 p.m.

Webster Senior Center

• AA Meeting, 7 p.m.

• Senior Monthly Meeting, 3rd Tues.

• Men’s Wii Bowling, 9:30 a.m.

• Dime Bingo, 12:30 p.m.

• Mixed Wii Bowling, 9:30 a.m.

• Cards & Pool, 7-9 p.m.

Food Shelf

• Ruby’s, Siren, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• SCF, 1-4 p.m., 715-483-2920

• Frederic, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 715-327-4425 • SCF, 9 a.m.-Noon

• SCF, Noon-6 p.m.

• Ruby’s, Siren, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Frederic, 2-6 p.m.

• SCF, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Siren VFW Aux., 2nd Wed., the hall, 7:30 p.m.

• Frederic Legion Aux. 249 Every 3rd Thurs., Golden Oaks, 7 p.m.

715-866-5300

VFW Aux./Legion Aux.

EVERY MON.

TOPS

• Good Sam, St. Croix Falls, 5:45 p.m., 715-483-3666

Meat Raffles

• Webster Lioness At Last Call, 6 p.m.

EVERY TUES. EVERY WED.

• Webster Chamber At The Tap, 5:30 p.m.

• Frederic Lions At Aspen Leaf, 6 p.m.

EVERY MON.

EVERY TUES.

• First Baptist Church, Webster, 9:30 a.m., 715-349-2332

EVERY TUES.

• Trinity Lutheran Church, Osceola, 8:30 a.m., 715-755-3123

• Luck Senior Center, 5:30 p.m., 715-472-2341 • Balsam Lake Municipal Building, 3:45 p.m., 715-485-3002

EVERY THURS. • Cushing Legion At Suzy Q’s, 6 p.m.

• Siren Lions At Midtown Tavern, 5 p.m.

• Danbury Fire & Lions Club, Yellow River Saloon, 5:30 p.m.

• Blizzard Hockey At Zia Louisa, 6 p.m.

• Ruby’s, Siren, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

EVERY FRI.

EVERY FRI.

• Fishbowl Sportsmen’s Club At Sweeny’s Bar, 5 p.m.

• Snowciables At Thirsty Otter, 6 p.m.

• Grantsburg Legion, 6:30 p.m.

• Humane Society, Yellow River Saloon, 5 p.m.

• Hockey Assoc. At Dreamers, 6:30 p.m.

• Frederic, 9 a.m.-Noon

EVERY WED.

EVERY THURS.

• Comforts of Home, Frederic, 5:30 p.m., 715-327-8063

• Overeaters Anonymous, Amery Senior Center, 6:30 p.m., 715-268-6605

EVERY SAT.

• Siren Lions At Jed’s Laker Lounge, 5 p.m.

• Lake Country Riders At The Pour House, 5:30 p.m.

• Webster Lions At Gandy Dancer Saloon, 4:30 p.m.

• S.N.O.W.S., Skol Bar, Frederic, 5:30 p.m.

EVERY SUN.

• YLRA At Yellow Lake Lodge, Webster, 3-5 p.m.

• Siren Lions At Robert’s Road House, 4 p.m.

• Wild About Education At Wild Waters, Danbury, 3:30 p.m.

• Wonderland At Yellow Lake Golf Course, 4 p.m.

WHAT’S FOR LUNCH???

Menu LOCATION

DECEMBER 12 - DECEMBER 16

MONDAY

TUESDAY

BREAKFAST Breakfast pizza, fruit cocktail.

LUNCH Chicken-strip wrap, lettuce salad, fresh fruit OR Oriental salad.

BREAKFAST Yogurt, apple slices.

LUNCH Mini corn dogs, baked beans, mini pretzels OR turkey salad.

LUNCH Chicken burger with fixings, potato wedges, baked beans, sliced pears, apples, oranges, bread basket.

Taco salad w/fixings, brown rice, refried beans, fresh kiwi, apples, oranges, bread basket.

Pancakes, sausage, omelet, orange juice, banana, apples, oranges, bread basket.

Lasagna, garlic toast, salad, mixed vegetables, ice-cream treat, apples, oranges, bread basket.

Sub sandwich with fixings, chicken noodle soup, crackers, mini carrots, dip, mandarin oranges, apples, oranges, bread basket.

LUCK

BREAKFAST Cereal/waffles.

LUNCH Cheese or sausage pizza, rice blend, winter mix, fruit sauce. Alt.: Hamburger, 7-12.

BREAKFAST Cereal/donut.

LUNCH Mashed potato bowl (popcorn chicken), gravy, corn, fruit sauce. Alt.: Hot dog, 7-12.

BREAKFAST Cereal/sausage and eggs.

LUNCH Build your own sub, chips, corn, fresh fruit. Alt.: Mini corn dogs, 7-12.

BREAKFAST Cereal/French toast sticks.

LUNCH Baked potato bar, ham/cheese, broccoli w/cheese, fruit sauce. Alt.: Chicken nuggets, ALL.

BREAKFAST Cereal/cinnamon roll.

LUNCH Hamburger, french fries, baked beans, fresh fruit. Alt.: Chicken patty, 7-12.

SIREN

BREAKFAST Assorted cereal and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Cheeseburger on a bun, oven potatoes, baked beans, veggies, fruit. Alt.: Turkey wrap.

BREAKFAST Mini pancakes, juice and milk.

LUNCH Sub sandwich, soup, crackers, shredded lettuce, peas & carrots, oranges & apples. Alt.: Hamburger rice hotdish.

BREAKFAST Assorted cereal and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Barbecue chicken on a bun, Tostitos, lettuce, corn, pears. Alt.: Pita pocket.

BREAKFAST Breakfast pizza, juice and milk.

LUNCH Chicken patty, garden harvest rice, coleslaw, green beans, banana, peaches. Alt.: Soup and sandwich.

BREAKFAST Assorted cereal and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Pizza dippers, dippers with rice, sauce, corn, carrots, lettuce salad, celery, peas, pineapple applesauce, tidbits,fresh banana. fruit.

Cook’s choice. choice.

Alt.: Cook’s

BREAKFAST Cereal bar and toast.

LUNCH California burger, bun, potato salad, green beans, applesauce. Alt.: Spicy chicken patty.

BREAKFAST Waffles and fruit.

LUNCH Sub sandwich, spicy fries, corn, fruit juice bar. Alt.: Tuna sandwich.

BREAKFAST Scrambled eggs and toast.

LUNCH Taco salad, lettuce and fixings, steamed peas, pineapple, cinnamon rolls.

BREAKFAST Yogurt parfait w/1 slice of toast.

LUNCH Chicken fajita wraps, steamed rice, carrots, pears. Alt.: Chili & corn bread muffin.

BREAKFAST Breakfast pizza.

LUNCH Hot dog, bun, baked chips, baked beans, peaches. Alt.: Chicken patty.

BREAKFAST Breakfast pizza.

LUNCH Chili, crackers, corn bread muffins and fruit.

BREAKFAST Bagels/cream cheese.

LUNCH Cook’s choice.

BREAKFAST Egg/sausage patty.

LUNCH Spaghetti, bread sticks, green beans and fruit.

BREAKFAST Belgian waffles/toppings.

LUNCH Chicken patty, butternut squash and fruit.

BREAKFAST Egg/ham combo.

LUNCH Mini corn dogs, parsley potatoes and fruit.

LUNCH Spaghetti with meat sauce, salad, bread stick, pears.

LUNCH Chicken fajita gordita, salad OR grilled cheese, tomato soup, salad, applesauce.

LUNCH Philly beef sub, California-blend veggies OR beef stroganoff, Monaco-blend veggies, peaches.

LUNCH Sloppy joe, scalloped potatoes, sliced carrots, fruit cocktail.

LUNCH French-bread cheese pizza, salad, fresh veggies, fresh fruit.

FREDERIC GRANTSBURG Each building will have their own breakfast menu.

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITY WEBSTER

LUNCH

WEDNESDAY BREAKFAST Combo bar, oranges.

LUNCH Tater tot hotdish, bread stick, green beans OR tuna salad.

LUNCH

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

BREAKFAST Whole-grain pancakes, blueberry topping.

LUNCH Asian grill bites, fried rice, egg roll, peas OR ham salad.

BREAKFAST Apple frudel.

LUNCH Nachos supreme, corn OR chickentaco salad.

LUNCH

LUNCH

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Eight-year battle against infertility ends with an adoption, but financial help is needed

by Mary Stirrat Leader staff writer ST. CROIX FALLS — For more than eight years Mark and Tammy Wondra of St. Croix Falls have struggled with infertility, but against all odds, during this Christmas season, they are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their little girl.

Baby Hannah is due Dec. 27. This past fall her birth mother chose the Wondras out of all the potential adoptive parents she could have considered.

At that time, however, the Wondras knew they did not have the funds to proceed with the adoption. They had already spent more than $30,000 on infertility treatments, and this particular adoption was $10,000 over their budget.

“We regretfully asked not to be submitted because of financial restraints,” said Tammy. “However, due to an error on behalf of the agency, our profile was submitted and the birth mother chose us.”

Never before, the Wondras were told, had the agency accidentally submitted a profile only to have it chosen by the birth mother.

They must now come up with the additional $10,000 by the end of the year, but the Wondras are confident that God will provide.

“We know this has been the work of God,” said Tammy. “There is no other explanation. It is a true miracle.”

Tammy said they have talked with the birth mother, who is very happy with her decision to place her baby girl with the Wondras.

“She chose us,” said Tammy, “because she was very touched by our story.”

The story goes back to July 2003, when the couple had the opportunity to spend time with their 6-month-old nephew, Tyler.

“We fell in love with him,” Tammy said.

“Our desire to have a child of our own intensified.”

In 2006 the couple began the difficult process of infertility treatments. The procedures can be painful, and their failure can be heart wrenching.

“We did 12 intrauterine inseminations,” she said, “all of which brought heartbreaking, negative responses.”

Their doctors then encouraged the couple to try in vitro fertilization, but the Wondras were hesitant. As Christians, they decided to talk with two pastors as well as with other Christian couples who had gone the route of in vitro fertilization.

As a result, said Tammy, God opened their hearts to the idea, and in the fall of 2008 they underwent the IVF cycle. During the two-month cycle Tammy was required to have up to four shots a day.

A Christmas miracle

An ultrasound of Hannah, due to be born Dec. 27. Hannah’s birth mother chose Mark and Tammy Wondra of St. Croix Falls to be Hannah’s adoptive parents.

After years of struggling with infertility, Mark and Tammy Wondra are adopting a baby girl due to be born Dec. 27. The adoption is $10,000 more than anticipated, and a fundraiser to help cover the additional costs is being held Saturday, Dec. 17, at Trade Lake Baptist Church.

“We had what our doctors called a ‘perfect’ cycle,” Tammy recalled, “and the perfect amount of eggs retrieved.

“However, our joy turned to sorrow when we found the eggs fertilized but failed to grow.”

They were told that this is a very rare occurrence that happens in only about 2 percent of cases. Tammy later found out she has a genetic disorder that causes the embryos failure to grow.

“This was one of the lowest points in my life,” said Tammy. “I was devastated.

I felt less than a woman, like a failure. I felt like I had let Mark down.”

The next step in the Wondras journey was to explore a donor egg cycle. They ended up talking with a friend who wanted to donate her eggs to the couple.

“We traveled to Texas in February 2009 to start the process,” said Tammy, “but God closed the door on that option.”

A few months later Tammy was contacted by a fellow blogger asking if the Wondras were interested in adopting her embryos. The woman was pregnant with twins and the couple knew they didn’t want any more children.

“We were again filled with hope,” Tammy said, “and in the spring of 2010 we traveled to Michigan to undergo a frozen embryo transfer.”

The blood test to find out if the procedure worked was set for April 18, Tammy’s birthday.

“We thought it would be the best birthday present ever,” she said, “and it ended up being the worst. I was not pregnant.

Our babies went to heaven.”

The Wondras clinic contacted them

Mark and Tammy Wondra with Mark’s two sons, Chad and Peter. – Photos submitted

again in early 2011, stating they had embryos for the couple, and they underwent another frozen embryo transfer in the spring of 2011.

“Once again the blood test was scheduled on my birthday, without any planning,” Tammy said. “It just happened that way. This year was different, though, as we found out on my birthday I indeed was pregnant.

“I had always wanted to be pregnant, and we praise God that he gave me that opportunity and answered my prayer.

However, two days later, we found out I was miscarrying.”

After about three months of grieving, Tammy said, she and Mark began looking more into adoption. They had already completed a home study and were signed up with Christian Adoption Consultants, and in August 2011 they began submitting their profiles to different adoption situations.

“We submitted our profile to seven situations without being matched,” said Tammy, “each with the disappointing call saying the birth mother had chosen a different family.”

In October the Wondras were contacted about a situation but, after finding out it was $10,000 over their budget, they regretfully asked that their paperwork not be submitted.

God had other plans, Tammy said, and the paperwork was erroneously submitted and the birth mother chose Tammy and Mark.

The birth mother, said Tammy, has had

a rough life. “We would appreciate prayers for her at this hard time. It’s a tough situation to give up a child. Birth mothers are extremely courageous.”

Their little girl’s due date, said Tammy, is ironically about the same time she would have been due if she had not miscarried this past spring.

••• While the Wondras are very joyous and excited, feeling God’s hand in the situation, they admit that having to come up with an additional $10,000 by the end of the year puts them in desperate financial need.

You can be part of the their Christmas miracle by taking part in an upcoming fundraiser to help cover the unexpected additional cost of $10,000.

Trade Lake Baptist Church is hosting the fundraiser, which will be held Saturday, Dec. 17, from noon to 3 p.m.

There will be a chili lunch, silent auction, bake sale and pie auction. You are also invited to take part in the Baby Bottle Bonanza by filling a baby bottle with your spare change and bringing it to the benefit.

“We’re looking for any helpers, donations, baked goods or whatever,” said organizers of the fundraising event. “Any help is greatly appreciated.”

The Wondras have established a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ hannahscominghome. Updates on their adoption journey are posted there, along with ways you can help bring their baby girl home.

“If you would like to follow us there,” said Tammy, “we would love to share our journey with you.”

For more information contact Danielle Park at 612-205-3830, Mary Price at 715463-2014 or Marlys Elrod at 715-327-4992.

Community Choir performs

The Community Choir performed its annual Christmas concert Saturday, Dec. 3, and Sunday, Dec. 4, at Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren. The choir is composed of singers from many area churches. Jim Muus was the director and organizer of the choir. Julie Strang was the accompanist. - Photo submitted

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

CHURCH NEWS Silent Messengers presented Sunday's worship

The Silent Messengers from Baldwin presented Sunday’s worship service at Bethany Lutheran Church in Siren. “The Christmas Dream” was the story of the most wonderful gift ever given. – Photos submitted

Huge success SIREN – Operation Christmas Child’s relay center at Siren - located in the Siren Covenant Church - reports that a record number of gift-filled shoe boxes have been collected this year - 652.

The boxes will be sent to Zambia, Africa and India.

Each child that receives one of the boxes will also receive a Bible and 12 lessons on “The Greatest Journey.”

The project extends gratitude to all members of the community who took part in the project for making an impact on children and their families who are in hopeless situations. - with submitted information

More Wisconsin children living in poverty

by Kristen Durst Wisconsin Public Radio STATEWIDE - More of Wisconsin’s school-aged children are living in poverty. New estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau say the number of children living in poverty rose by more than 4 percent, from nearly 13 percent in 2007 to 17 percent in 2010.

Tony Evers is the state superintendent with the Department of Public Instruction.

“It is kind of staggering news in a way, the increases over a short period of time, and in some particular school districts it’s increased significantly.”

The Census Bureau says the number of school-aged

children living in poverty increased in 47 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties. Evers says it’s a problem affecting home and school life.

“It creates a stress on kids, and it also creates a stress on our schools, because they need to respond to all kids needs whether they have lots of them or very few. And in these difficult economic times, it makes it even more critical that we respond to those needs, but it’s also more difficult because we have fewer teachers, fewer social workers, fewer counselors in our schools.”

The DPI says more than 41 percent of children in the state are eligible for free and reduced price school meals this school year. That’s 8 percent more than three years ago.

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THANK YOU

We would like to thank the Burnett Medical Center ER staff, EMT responders, North Memorial Ambulance and helicopter services, trauma unit staff and surgeons at North Memorial for their professional care regarding Joe’s severe leg injury Nov. 2.

Also our heartfelt thanks to our dear family and friends, the prayer groups in Grantsburg and surrounding area who are all interceding for Joe’s complete recovery. Every prayer, visit, card, phone call, food, gift and help around our home are tangible expressions of your love and concern in our time of need. These have become a great well of hope and encouragement that we drink from daily on the road to recovery.

Thank You - God Bless You All! Joe and Judy Lener

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Sign up for e-mails of breaking local news @ www.the-leader.net

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

CHURCH NEWS/OBITUARIES Eternal

Perspectives Sally Bair

Christmas details They’re endless. Write and send the annual Christmas letter. Shop for the perfect gifts. Wrap the gifts.

Find the perfect tree. Trim the tree. Hang the stockings. Practice for the pageant. Prepare the special meal. Open the gifts. Dress for the pageant. Perform without stumbling. Entertain family and friends. Collapse.

The details vary from family to family. For some, it’s the matter of preparing for a trip. For others, it’s finding ways to survive the pain of loss. For most, it’s going through the steps listed above. Regardless, we can get lost in the Christmas details.

The good news is that God is in the details. His details have eternal meaning. His details for Christmas began in the Garden of Eden where he prophesied the coming of Christ the Savior. Throughout the Old Testament, we find thousands of details God reveals about Christmas. “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14) Chapter 9 of Isaiah also tells us about Jesus, the holy child—the names he will be called, the purpose of his coming to Earth.

Other books of prophecy add to God’s details. And they all culminate in those given in the Gospels about the birth of Jesus. Every detail had significance: Mary’s virgin birth, her visit to her cousin Elizabeth who was about to give birth to John the Baptist, and the glorious experience of the shepherds who heard angels praising God and telling them to go to the stable to worship Jesus. They tell about the brilliant star that led three wise men to the same stable, the dreams God gave Joseph about the baby and about leaving Bethlehem to seek safety in Egypt, and the subsequent dream about returning to Nazareth where Jesus grew up.

Yes, God is in the details. Our manmade details, however, are mere add-ons of little consequence. We gain a clearer perspective of Christmas when we focus on God’s details rather than our own. Christmas is about giving—giving of ourselves to God for his glory first before we give to our family and friends. It’s about relaxing in his presence instead of hurrying to fulfill all the details we add—many unnecessarily—to make Christmas “real.” Rather than being lost in the Christmas details of our making, we can find Christ in God’s details.

Lord, give us a clear perspective of the true meaning of Christmas. Help us focus on your details about Jesus’ birth rather than on our own. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com.

Stanley “Slug” Schultz Stanley “Slug” Schultz, 62, Grantsburg, died Nov. 10, 2011, at his home with his wife, Betty, at his side.

Stanley was born May 31, 1949, the second son of Andrew and Doris (Ramsdell) Schultz.

Stanley met Betty Anderson on May 10, 1980. They have spent all of their time together since that day. Stanley became instant dad, grandpa and great-grandpa to Betty’s family.

Stanley enjoyed family gatherings, Thanksgiving bonfires, having Cooper and Gabbi spend time, caring for Gina, gathering hazelnuts, cutting firewood, rides in Crex Meadows and trips to the casinos.

Stanley is survived by Betty and his family: Michael Anderson of Grantsburg, Gayle Lunsmann (Steve B.) of Balsam Lake, Marie Capelli-Gibson (Craig) of Hudson and Cindy Anderson (Gene C.) of River Falls; grandchildren, Mark, Jane, Shann, Skip, Bill, Crissy, Tracy, Ben, Sonya, James, Kevin, Kara, Rochelle and Kyndra; 16 great-grandchildren; special adopted family, Karen and Dino Conaratti and Boppas girls of Champlin, Minn.; brothers, Wayne and Dan (Shirley); nieces, Brenda and Ariel.

Stanley’s family and friends gathered at his home Thanksgiving Day to celebrate his life and share memories. Stanley was much loved and is missed by family and friends.

Wallace G. Nelson

Lawrence Olson

Wallace G. Nelson, 96, who died May 29, 2010, and his wife, Demaris, 92, who died July 23, 2011, were laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery in Siren, on Oct. 30, 2011. The Rev. Robert Hudnut of Cottage Grove, Minn., officiated at the burial rites.

Wallace was the son of the late John and Constance Nelson of rural Siren. Demaris was the daughter of the late Fred and Lizzie Anderson of Kennedy, Minn. Memorial services were held earlier for each of them at Covenant Village Chapel with the Rev. John Satterberg officiating.

Wallace taught school in several Burnett County schools, later moving to Minneapolis, Minn., where he was employed in the editorial office of the Minneapolis Tribune, and later by Phillips Petroleum Co. In 1942, he enlisted in the Navy and was serving in the South Pacific area when the war ended. He returned to Phillips Petroleum Co. and remained employed there until he retired.

Wallace married Demaris Anderson in 1942. They had three children, Nancy, Paul and Margaret. Later, Demaris went to work at Daytons, where she worked until she retired. After both retired, they moved to Covenant Village Seniors’ residence in Golden Valley, Minn. They formerly were members of Edina Covenant Church.

They are survived by their three children, Nancy (Dan Drabek) of Santa Cruz, Calif., Paul Nelson and Paola Scommegna of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Margaret (Paul McNamara) of Champaign, Ill.; and eight grandchildren. Demaris is survived by four sisters, Lucy Lundell and Isobel Kindall of Hallock, Minn., and Katherine Olson and Joyce Lundell of Golden Valley, Minn. Wallace is survived by sister, Grace Nelson of Siren; and brother, Kenneth Nelson of Edina, Minn.

Lawrence Olson, 83, Frederic, passed away peacefully on Nov. 30, 2011, at the United Pioneer Home in Luck.

Ole was born on April 6, 1928, in Friendship, to Oliver and Sigrid Olson. He grew up in the Adams/Friendship area with four older siblings and his family. In 1946, he enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country for 24 years. It was during his time stationed in Washington that he met the love of his life, Liz Eklund. They were married on Dec. 1, 1956. They had one son, Larry, and later adopted their daughter, Lynda.

Ole’s naval career as a boatswain I was impressive. He served in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. He traveled the world through his tours of duty and was proud of his service to this country. He loved to tell stories of the years he spent in Japan and Naples, Italy. He retired in 1970 in Chula Vista, Calif., and served six years as Fleet Reserve. It was after his retirement from the Navy that Liz and Ole moved to Frederic, to be near family.

Ole worked for the village of Frederic in a number of capacities until becoming a merchant seaman working on the iron ore carriers of Lake Superior. He served until the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald, which he was scheduled to be aboard at the time of the ship’s fateful trip. It was then that Ole began to work for the Minnesota State Prison in Stillwater, Minn. He retired from the prison in 1993. In 1994, he suffered a massive heart attack and triple bypass surgery. His future was bleak with a prognosis of only another five years of life after his surgery.

He far surpassed that with his positive attitude, will to live, and the tremendous love and support of family and friends.

Ole loved hunting and fishing and most of all, spending time with friends. He and Liz frequented the Adventures Restaurant in Siren on almost a daily basis during their retirement years. Anyone that came to visit them was treated to a meal at the restaurant, with warm introductions to their friends. They made many dear friends and were so thankful for their “family” at Adventures.

Ole’s sense of humor and practical jokes were a delight to many and he continued his antics at the Pioneer Home.

He loved the staff there and was truly grateful for the excellent care that he received. Words cannot convey the imprint he left on the hearts of many. He was just Ole …. and he will be greatly missed.

Ole was preceded in death by his loving wife, Liz; and his parents.

He is survived by his children, Larry and Lynda (Annie); his grandchildren, Heather and Leroy Olson; sister, Betty Christofferson; as well as many brothers-in-law and sisters in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral services were held at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Frederic on Saturday, Dec. 3, with the Rev. Andrew Hinwood officiating. Music was provided by organist Mary Lou Daeffler.

Ole was laid to rest next to his wife, Liz, at Maple Grove Cemetery with full military honors following the service.

Pallbearers assisting were Gilbert Berg, Leroy Olson, Paul Lindblad, Kevin Lindblad, Jim Meyer and Bob Thorsbakken.

Online condolences may be left at www.rowefh.com .

For additional information call Bruce Rowe at 715-3274475.

Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Robert T. Danielson Robert Thompson Danielson, 87, Grantsburg, died peacefully at the Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Roseville, Minn., on Nov. 22, 2011.

Robert was born in Frederic on March 13, 1924, to Axel and Hazel Danielson.

He was baptized as a teenager in the Trade Lake Baptist Church and was an active member through his teenage years. He graduated from Grantsburg High School in 1942. After graduation, he helped on the farm until joining the U.S. Army, serving until he was discharged in 1946. After his discharge, he returned to Grantsburg and worked for Grantsburg Motors as a farm machinery salesman. In 1953, he started working for Montgomery Wards as a furniture salesman until he retired in 1987.

Robert married Virginia Hinrichs on Sept. 11, 1954.

They had a daughter, Jennifer, born Sept. 8, 1964, and two granddaughters, Abigail and Olivia. His greatest joy was his family. He was very proud of his daughter and was happy when she married John Hawkins. Very happy to have a son-in-law he really connected with. He was a doting grandpa to his granddaughters. Robert enjoyed music, poetry, gardening, woodworking, golf, bridge, traveling and cars. He was a kind and gentle man, softspoken and loved by his family and friends.

He was active in his church where he had served as a deacon and a member of the Monday Morning Crew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Axel and Hazel Danielson.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia; daughter, Jennifer (John) Hawkins; granddaughters, Abigail and Olivia; sister, Corrine Tyberg; brother, Roger (Mary) Danielson; nieces and nephew and many friends.

A memorial service was held at Presbyterian Church of the Way in Shoreview, Minn. on Nov. 29, with the Rev. Annita Cummings officiating. Private interment will be held at Frederic.

Benjamin J. Schommer Funeral services for Benjamin J. Schommer, who died Monday, Dec. 5, will be held Friday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m., at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Frederic. Visitation will be from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the church.

The son of Jim and Jackie Schommer of Frederic, Benjamin was a 2004 graduate of Frederic High School.

We Turn Feelings Into Flowers

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EXPERTS IN THE ART OF EXPRESSION®

550791 16L

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or visit us online at floralandgardenpros.com

Richard W. Fremont, 91, Webster, passed away on Dec. 3, 2011, at Spooner Health surrounded by family. Funeral services will be Friday, Dec. 9, at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home in Webster at 1 p.m. with nephew Gail Fremont officiating. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home in Webster. Online condolences can be made at www.swedbergtaylor.com.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

In Loving Memory Of

BALSAM LAKE

715-485-3131 888-374-8894

Richard W. Fremont

Dear God, it’s now year nine.

And we all hope Dad’s doing fine.

Does he pull his pranks on your streets of gold, And does he do what he is told?

His sense of fun was always good, And we all hope that’s understood.

He liked his fun and we all know, That he’s the one now making snow!

Also God, it is true, That this year Ron is with you too.

His pranking days were just like Dad’s, And now he’s gone and we’re so sad.

We’ll keep them in our thoughts and prayers, Until the day we join them there.

Sadly Missed By Their Family

551001 16Lp

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

CHURCH NEWS

Holidays can be a time to grieve rather than celebrate Q: This is the first holiday season for my family since my father passed away.

I’m dreading Christmas because I am afraid it will be so emotional, especially for my mom. What can I do to make it easier for her?

Juli: I am so sorry for your loss. Grieving someone you love during the holiday season can bring about many of the conflicting feelings you describe. Everyone around you seems to be celebrating while your heart is aching.

For both you and your mom, it is important to recognize and accept that this holiday season will be different from years past. Don’t feel pressure to pretend that life goes on as usual. It is perfectly fine for your family to cry and grieve, even on Christmas morning. Instead of fighting against the grief, it may help to acknowledge it. Some families, for example, choose to set a place at the table for the family member who has died. But it is also appropriate for your family to celebrate. Some people feel as though they don’t have the right to be happy or to laugh through grief. Give yourself and your mom permission to experience whatever emotions arise.

Jim Daly

Focus on the Family

Juli Slattery

This Christmas will be more emotionally taxing than others. While maintaining family traditions can bring about feelings of normalcy and stability, it is also fine to scale back. Help your mom be realistic about what she feels up to.

Finally, Christmas provides a variety of opportunities to bless others who are in need. Consider helping a needy family or giving to a charity in your father’s name to honor his memory. You may find joy even through grief as you look to ease the burden of someone less fortunate.

••• Q: We didn’t build many Christmas traditions when I was young. Some years, in fact, my mom couldn’t even be bothered to put up a tree. How can I make Christmas special and memorable for my own kids?

Jim: Author Lynne Thompson has developed an age-appropriate list filled with just the kind of ideas you’re looking for. Here are a few of them:

Ages 0-3: 1) In order to avoid making Christmas a “don’t-touch” holiday for little ones, give them fun things they can touch.

2) Mold a nativity scene from clay dough and display it in a prominent place. Tell the story of Christmas while you do this.

3) Decorate cookies and build gingerbread houses together.

Ages 4-7: 1) When you receive Christmas cards from friends and family members, place them in a basket on the dinner table. Take turns drawing a card each night and then pray together for that person or family.

2) Pick out a new holiday picture book to read each Christmas Eve. Ages 8-12: 1) Assign a country to your child, and ask him or her to report on how that country celebrates Christmas. Encourage your kids to prepare a traditional dish from that country, or perform a folk dance, etc.

Thompson also recommends several activities that are suitable for all ages. For example, join with some other families and go Christmas caroling. In addition to singing around the neighborhood, consider visiting a hospital, homeless shelter or nursing home.

Finally, many families choose to cele-

brate Advent, the days leading up to Christmas Day. There are fun Advent calendars on the market, some with doors that open and play songs, others that hide chocolate candies or other treats.

For the full list, as well as other Christmas ideas, visit focusonthefamily.com.

Best wishes to you as you seek to build special Christmas memories with your kids this year.

••• Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family, host of the Focus on the Family radio program, and a husband and father of two. Dr. Juli Slattery is a licensed psychologist, cohost of Focus on the Family, author of several books, and a wife and mother of three. Submit your questions to: FocusOnTheFamily.com.

Copyright 2011 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:

First Baptist Church Webster

Christmas/Advent church services WEBSTER – First Baptist Church in Webster, Christmas Eve service is 4:30 p.m.

••• FALUN – Trinity Lutheran Church, Annual Cookie Walk, Saturday, Dec. 10, beginning at 9 a.m.; Annual Christmas play, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2 p.m., “Clueless at Christmas;” Midweek Advent worship, soup supper 6 p.m., worship 7 p.m., Wednesdays, Dec. 14 and 21; Christmas Eve worship, 7 p.m. No worship service Sunday morning, Dec. 25, New Year’s Eve worship, 7 p.m. No worship service Sunday morning, Jan. 1.

First Baptist Church Sunday school Christmas program, Sunday, Dec. 11, at

9:30 a.m. Christmas Eve candlelight service, at 4:30 p.m.; No worship service on Christmas Day, no Sunday school on Christmas Day, nor New Year’s Day. ••• LUCK – Please join St. Peter’s Lutheran for their candlelight Christmas Eve service at 8 p.m. This service will touch your heart with congregation and choir songs taking you through the events of Jesus’ birth. St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, L.C.M.C.. “The Little White Church on the Hill” CTH B, two miles north of Luck.

••• CENTURIA – Fristad Lutheran Church, 501 Hwy. 35. Christmas Eve candlelight service, 4 p.m.; Christmas morning serv-

ice, 9:30 a.m.

Holy Trinity United Methodist Church, 1606 165th Ave. Christmas Eve service, 4 p.m.; Christmas morning service, 8:30 a.m.

North Valley Lutheran Church, 1988 220th Ave. Christmas Eve service, 4 p.m. and 10 p.m.; Christmas morning service, 9:15 a.m.

••• FREDERIC – Trade Lake Baptist Church, 20750 CTH Z, seven miles west of Frederic on Hwy. 48, is having their candlelight service Sunday evening Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. The TLBC choir will present a cantata, “Symbols and Expectations” with the Frederic Middle School bell choir. Re-

freshments will follow.

St. Luke United Methodist Church, 100 Linden St. W. Christmas Eve service, 10 p.m.; Christmas service, 10:30 a.m.

••• GRANTSBURG – The Christmas Program at New Hope Lutheran will be Sunday, Dec. 18, at 9:30 a.m. during worship services. A sleigh ride is planned for the afternoon. Christmas Eve candlelight services will be Saturday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m.; Christmas Day worship Service on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. No Sunday school on Sunday, Dec. 25, and Sunday, Jan. 1. - submitted

Church listings sponsored by the following area businesses: 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

NORTHWESTERN WISCONSIN ELECTRIC CO.

“Your Electric Servant” Serving Polk & Burnett Counties “Use Energy Wisely”

CARLSON-ROWE FUNERAL HOME

Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4475 Duane Lindh

HAULING

INTER-COUNTY CO-OP PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION

• Gravel • Sand • Rock • Top Soil • Trackhoe 715-472-2717 Mobile 715-491-1861 1065 290th Ave. Frederic, Wis.

Frederic, Wis. - 715-327-4236 Shell Lake, Wis. - 715-468-2314 Siren, Wis. - 715-349-2560 St. Croix Falls, Wis. - 715-483-9008

• Gravel • Sand • Rock • Topsoil • Track Hoe 715-554-0526 Frederic, Wis.

Printers & Publishers Office Supplies

STATE FARM INSURANCE COMPANIES

Corey T. Arnold, Agent Frederic, Wis. Phone 715-327-8076

BEAN’S COUNTRY GRIDDLE Hwys. 35 & 48 Downtown Frederic Phone 715-327-5513

R&S TRUCKING

LUCK VAN METER’S MEATS

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

WEBSTER

ALPHA

CUSHING

CASHCO BUILDING SUPPLIES

BASS LAKE LUMBER

CUSHING COOPERATIVE SOCIETY

Complete Lumber & Building Supplies

Phone 715-866-4238 Hwy. 35 N. Webster, Wis. Tom & Becky O’Brien, Owners

HOPKINS SAND & GRAVEL, INC.

Sand, Gravel, Ready-Mix, Concrete, Black Dirt, Dozer Work, Landscaping & Septic Tanks Installed

• Complete Line of Building Supplies & Lumber • Cabot’s Stains Grantsburg, Wis. 715-488-2471 or 715-327-8766

BURNETT DAIRY CO-OP 1988 World Champion Cheesemaker Earl Wilson, Cheese Plant Mgr. Dan Dowling, Ag. Supply Mgr. for Feed, Propane & Fertilizer Alpha, Wis. 715-689-2468 715-689-2467

Feed Mill - Grain Dept.

Cushing, Wis. 715-648-5215

WILD RIVER FLAGS Jerry & Pat Willits 2815 285th Ave. Sterling Township St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-488-2729

Hwy. 35 North Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-4157 M.P.R.S. #03059

SWEDBERG-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-7131

SIREN

Churches 6/11

FREDERIC

OLSEN & SON

Your Full-Service Drugstore Siren, Wis. Phone 715-349-2221

D & L FINANCIAL SERVICES 10022 Elbow Lake Road Siren, Wis. 54872 715-689-2539

Any area business wishing to help sponsor the church listings should contact the Leader at 715-327-4236.

DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Church Directory ADVENTIST

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST - FREDERIC

609 Benson Road; Pastor Curtis Denney 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 Sunday Worship: 9 & 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, 1/2 Mile South Hwy. 8 On 110th St.; Sun. Worship 9 a.m.; Sun. School 10:15 a.m.

Wed. Bible Study 8:30 a.m.; Wed. LOGOS 3:20 p.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. Interim Pastor Keith Rediske Pastoral Serv. 715-349-5280 Sun. School 8:15 a.m.; Sun. Worship - 9:30 a.m.

BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws

Pastor Peter Rimmereid, 715-755-2562 1947 110th Ave., Dresser Sunday Contemporary Service 8:30 a.m.; Education Hour 9:45 a.m. (Starts 9/18/11); Sunday Traditional Service 10:45 a.m.

BONE LAKE LUTHERAN bllc@lakeland.ws

Pastor Mary Ann Bowman, 5 mi. E. of Luck on Hwy. 48, 1/2 mi. S. on I; Office - 715-472-2535 Pastor - 715-472-8153, 8:45 a.m. Prayer; 9 a.m. Sun. Schl. & Adult Bible Study; 10:30 a.m. Worship; 11:30 a.m. Fellowship Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

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.; Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sun. www.christlutheranpipelake.com

CLAM FALLS LUTHERAN (AALC)

Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt - 715-653-2630 www.clamfalls-zion-aalcparish.net Communion 1st Sun.; Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. School 9 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. 10:20 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st & last Sundays

FAITH LUTHERAN - GRANTSBURG

Pastor Victor St. George, 715-463-5388 Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School 10:45 a.m.

FIRST EVAN. LUTHERAN

561 Chestnut St., Taylors Falls, MN 651-465-5265 Traditional Worship - 8:30 a.m.; Contemporary Worship - 11 a.m.

FIRST LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl, 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. Wor. & Holy Communion - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:40 a.m.

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA

Rt. 1, Balsam Lake, WI (Fox Creek) Pastor Neal Weltzen; GT Office - 715-857-5580, Parsonage - 715-822-3001, TR Office - 715-822-3001 Wors. Serv. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m.; Holy Communion - 1st Sun. of each month

GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN

Phone 715-327-4340, 715-416-3086, 715-327-8384 Pastor Theresa Riewestahl Worship 9:15 a.m.; Sun. School 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC

(Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter, 715-327-8608 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st, 3rd & 5th Sun.

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. Schl. 9 a.m.; Sun. Worship 10 a.m.

LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl Sun. Wor. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:30 a.m.

LUCK LUTHERAN

510 Foster Ave. E. Pastor Ralph Thompson Office 715-472-2605; Home 715-472-8424 Sun. Wor. 8 &10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl 9 a.m.

MILLTOWN LUTHERAN

113 W. Main St.. W., Phone 715-825-2453 Pastor Danny G. Wheeler 9:15 a.m. Worship ; 10 a.m. Sunday School

NEW HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Pastor Emory Johnson, 715-463-5700 www.newhopelutheranchurch.org 685 W. State Road 70, Grantsburg Sun. Wor. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN

Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.; Wed. Wor. 6:30 p.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER

Pastor Gerald Heinecke Church Phone 715-866-7191 Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 10:30 a.m.

Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA)

METHODIST

METHODIST

ATLAS UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST GRANTSBURG

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Worship - 9 a.m.; Sunday School - 10:30 a.m.

DANBURY UNITED METHODIST

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 9 a.m.

GRACE UNITED - WEBSTER

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST Holytrinity@wisconsinumc.org 1606 165th Ave., CTH I, Centuria Pastor Freddie Kirk, 715-485-3363 Pastor Tammy Clausen Sunday Worship - 8:30 a.m.

2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 Web site: plcdresser.org Pastor Wayne Deloach, Intern Melissa Carmack Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 11 a.m., Sun. Schl. 9:35 a.m.

LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL

PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA)

Tom Cook, Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

Interim Pastor Andrew Hinwood 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sun. Worship - 10 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 2nd Sundays www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org

REDEEMER EV. LUTHERAN

(Wisconsin Synod) Pastor Gene DeVries 200 N. Adams St., St. Croix Falls Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 8:30 a.m.

Pastor Jack Starr Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour

LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST McKINLEY UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Annie Tricker Sun. Worship 11 a.m.; Sun. School 11 a.m.

Potluck dinner 1st Sunday

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST

350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Worship - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. School - 10 a.m.

oumc@centurytel.net 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Pastor Mark Gilbert Adult Class - 8:30 a.m.; Sunday School 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st Sunday

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LCMC

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST

ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod)

1614 CTH B, North Luck, Pastor Rob Lubben Sunday Worship - 9 a.m.

Contact Leslie Valentine, 715-646-2390; E-mail: leslie56@centurytel.net

Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship Service - 10 a.m.

Sunday School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN

Pastor Arveda “Freddie” Kirk, 715-327-4436 Pastor Tammy Clausen Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.

(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) - Pastor Neal Weltzin GT Office 715-857-5580, Parsonage 715-8223001, TR Office - 715-822-3001 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:15 a.m.

Holy Communion - 1st Sunday

TRINITY LUTHERAN LCMS, DANBURY

Pastor Gerald Heinecke Home 715-327-8608; Church 715-866-7191 Sunday Worship Service - 8 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN

Hwy. 70 East, 715-689-2271, Pastor: Carl Heidel Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

Communion -Every Sunday

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN OSCEOLA

300 Seminole Ave. (CTH M) Mark Kock, Pastor, 715-294-2828 Sunday Worship 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.; Summer, 9 a.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 Sun. Wor. 8 & 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m.

Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month

YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN

1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, Pastors Douglas Olson, Roger Kampstra and Myron Carlson Services begin at 9:30 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday

ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (LCMC)

Pastor Donna Knobloch - 715-472-8066 5 mi. E. of Frederic on W, 2 mi. south on I; Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st Sunday

ZION LUTHERAN - EAST FARMINGTON (WELS ) Pastor Martin Weigand - 715-294-3489 Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Bible Class 9:30 a.m.

Worship Serv. 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st & Last Sunday

ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE

Pastor Tim Faust Worship - 11 a.m.; Sunday School - 10 a.m.

Holy Communion - 1st & 3rd Sunday

ZION LUTHERAN - TRADE LAKE

Pastor Theresa Riewestahl 715-327-8384, 715-416-3086 Fellowship - 10:30 a.m., Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m., Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays

PRESBYTERIAN

PRESBYTERIAN

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

Rev. Bruce Brooks - 715-483-3550 719 Nevada St. , (between Simonson & Tower Roads) , St. Croix Falls Worship - 10 a.m. (Nursery provided) Sun. Schl. - Child.- 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - Adults 8:45 a.m.; Communion 1st Sunday

ST. LUKE UNITED - FREDERIC

SIREN UNITED METHODIST

Tom Cook, Pastor Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship - 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. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship - 8:15 a.m.

COVENANT

COVENANT

CALVARY COVENANT - ALPHA

Pastor Scott Sagle, 715-689-2541 Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Worship 10:30 p.m.; Elevator provided, welcome

SIREN COVENANT

Pastor Dave Guertin 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. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 255 St. Hwy. 35, East Farmington Mass Friday 9 a.m.; Sacrament of Penance Sat. 3:30 p.m.

CHURCH OF ST. JOSEPH

Pastor - Father Frank Wampach 490 Bench St., Taylors Falls, 651-465-7345 Sat. Vigil 5:30 p.m.; Sun. 7:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Tues. - Thurs. 7:30 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 - Rev. John A. Drummy, Pastor - 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. Sun. 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 & IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG CATHOLIC MASS SCHEDULE

Pastor: Rev. Dennis M. Mullen, 715-327-8119 St. Dominic: Sat. 4:30 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.

Immaculate Conception: Sat. 6:30 p.m.; Sun. 8:30 a.m. Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times

ST. ANNE PARISH

Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 139 Church Hill Rd., Somerset Mass Sun. 8:30 a.m.; Wed. 9 a.m.

Sacrament of Penance Sun. 8 a.m.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER

GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG

Pastor Father Frank Wampach, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9 a.m.

716 S. Robert St., Grantsburg, 715-463-5699 Sr. Pastor Brad Moore David Ahlquist, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School 11 a.m.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

LIVING HOPE CHURCH

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)

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.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

Pastor Merrill Olson, Interim Pastor 715-327-8402 Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.; www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

CHURCH OF CHRIST

1050 North Keller Ave., Amery, 715-268-7717 Father John Drummy, Pastor Sat. Mass 4 p.m., Sun. Mass 10:30 a.m.

Mass Wed. & Thurs. 9 a.m.

Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-294-2243 255 E. 10th Ave., Osceola Masses: Sun. 10:30 a.m., Tues. 5 p.m.

Thurs. at 10 a.m. at Osc. Nursing Home 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 www.occconnect.org Mtg. @ St. Croix Art Barn; Sun. Serv. - 9 a.m.

Nursery and children church

SIREN ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Andrew Bollant Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Morn. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Supervised Nursery; Wed. Evening - Worship Serv. 6:30 p.m.

EVANGELICAL

EVANGELICAL

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA)

Pastor Bruce Tanner, 715-268-2176 942 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible study 7 p.m.

CROSSWALK COMMUNITY CHURCH

Pastor Greg Lund, 715-327-8767 700 Churchwood Lane; 505 Old CTH W, Frederic Sun. Schl. - 9 a.m.; Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services Sat. Worship - 6 p.m., Luck Senior Center

HOPE EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH

Pastor Dave Williams 933 248th St., Osceola Morning Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School Sept.-May 8:45 a.m.

Children’s Church & Nursery provided

TRADE RIVER EVAN. 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. Pastor Gabe Brennan, 715-857-5411

Wor. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun. School-10:15 a.m.

EUREKA BAPTIST

2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls Pastor Willis Christenson, 715-483-9464 Sun. School - 10 a.m.; Wor. Service - 11 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; www.fbcamery.org; E-mail: churchoffice@fbcamery.org Reg. office hours: Tues.-Thurs. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Pastor Charlie Butt, Lead Pastor; Nick Buda, Associate Pastor Sunday Service: 9 a.m.; All ages Sunday School 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Nursery available

FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN

Pastor Steve Ward Sunday School - (all ages) - 9:30 a.m.

Church Serv. - 10:45 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN

Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 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.

TRADE LAKE BAPTIST

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.

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.

CHRISTIAN CENTER

CHRISTIAN CENTER

EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER

1751 100th Ave., Dresser Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Morning Worship 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 Saturday Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sunday Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago City, MN, www.holyx.net Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.

NAZARENE

NAZARENE

CALVARY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

510 S. Vincent, St. Croix Falls Pastor Tom Reaume, 715-483-3696 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:45 a.m. & Wed. 6:30 p.m.

FAITH COMMUNITY

7535 Peet St., Danbury, 715-656-4010 Adult Bible Service 9 a.m.; Services: Sun. 10 a.m.; Sunday School during church service.

NONDENOMINATIONAL

NONDENOMINATIONAL

CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN CHURCH

2390 CTH A, 1/8 mi. east of A&H intersection Pastor Tryg Wistad, 715-635-9222 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

Meets at Dresser Elem. School, Dresser Pastor Tony Minell, 715-417-1982 Sunday Wor. 9:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 9:45 a.m.

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 FRIENDS WOR. GROUP

715-733-0481 or 715-733-0480 for time of meeting.

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, 715-483-2911 Pastor’s res./office Sunday Worship 10 a.m.

church directory

ADVENTIST

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

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Find out more by calling 800227-7636 or this newspaper. www.cnaads.com (CNOW)

WANT ADS

TRADE LAKE SWEDISH MISSION CHURCH

Old-Fashioned Christmas Program Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011

WE HAVE PARTS for tractors, combines, machinery, hay equipment and more.

Used, new, rebuilt, aftermarket. Downing Tractor Parts, Downing, Wis., www. asapagparts.com 877-5301010. 32Ltfc

Fellowship and Refreshments at 6 p.m.

Program at 7 p.m.

Also: Trade Lake Town Hall Open House

Serving Refreshments 5-6 p.m.

Park at the town hall, ride the shuttle bus to the church. Shuttle service starting at 6 p.m.

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK

Nonprofits seeing greater need

by Maureen McCollum Wisconsin Public Radio STATEWIDE - Wisconsin’s charities are expecting more people to reach out for assistance this holiday season and hope more people will step up to help.

November and December can be busy for charities and nonprofit organizations. The holidays and colder weather can be financially stressful for people, especially this year.

Food pantries across the state are anticipating an increased need and are seeking more food and monetary donations to keep shelves stocked.

Hunger Task Force Milwaukee Executive Director Sherrie Tussler says in Milwaukee County alone, she predicts about 40,000 people utilizing food pantries and up to 65,000 hot meals served during the holiday season, “What happens at the holidays is that a lot of people are looking around and they’ve got some of the basics in their house, but they really wish they could sit down and

WONDRA ADOPTION BENEFIT Sat., Dec. 17, 2011, Noon to 3 p.m.

Trade Lake Baptist Church

20750 County Road Z • Frederic, WI 54837

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800-414-9569. www.driveknight.com

Saturday, December 10, 8 a.m. till Gone St. Luke’s Methodist Church

have a great holiday meal, as most normal people would.

They might be missing the money to purchase a turkey or a ham. They may not be able to get some seasonal favorites that they might be adjusted to and they’re looking at their kids, wishing they could have a nice meal.”

The Salvation Army may be one of the most recognizable charities during the holidays, due to the Red Kettle Christmas Campaign bell ringers. According to the Salvation Army regional commander, Major Robert Thompson, the organization has a goal of raising $19 million in Wisconsin this year, about $700,000 more than last year.

Money helps provide meals, clothing and gifts for those in need during the holiday season.

According to the Wisconsin Nonprofit Association executive director, some organizations are reaching out for more basic needs. While some places had toy drives in the past, they may be asking for food or gas cards instead.

Frederic

Come early for best choice of our wonderful holiday candy and cookie creations!

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HELP WANTED – TRUCK DRIVER

Balsam Lutheran Church

1115 Mains Crossing • Amery, WI • 715-268-9291

Welcomes Back

THE ALZEN FAMILY Saturday, December 10, at 7 p.m.

Join us for a night of Christmas music, good fellowship and refreshments. A freewill offering will be taken to help with expenses.

550784 5dp 16Lp The Alzens are a family band of bluegrass, Gospel music, which consists of mom, dad and six children.

www.the-leader.net Stay connected to your community.

CHILI LUNCH • SILENT AUCTION • BAKE SALE • PIE AUCTION Freewill Donation

Mark and Tammy have been faithfully waiting for a baby for 8 years. In a surprise twist that only God could provide, Mark and Tammy have been matched with their baby daughter and will be bringing her home soon! However, this situation God has provided is $10,000 over budget and they are in a financial emergency to bring in the funds by the end of the year so they can bring their daughter home.

Baby Bottle Bonanza: This is a big life-”changing” event for Mark and Tammy. Please fill up a baby bottle with your spare change and bring to the benefit.

www.theleader.net

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AUSTIN LAKE GREENHOUSE & FLOWER SHOP

Family Eye Clinic

• WEDDING BOUQUETS • FUNERAL DESIGNS • CUT FLOWERS • GIFTS • BALLOONS • BEDDING PLANTS • POTTED PLANTS • TUXEDO RENTAL BY SAVVI • ANTLER KING PRODUCTS

304 1st St. So., Luck, Wis.

Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Phone (715) 472-2121 Eye health exams, glaucoma checks, foreign body removal, full line of street wear, safety and sport wear, contact lenses

Dr. T.L. Christopherson Dr. B.A. Christopherson OPTOMETRISTS

341 Keller Ave. N. • Amery, Wis.

Phone 715-268-2020 Daily: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home Webster, Wisconsin

“Distinctive Funeral Service”

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Robert L. Nelson New York Life Insurance Company Box 313 Luck, Wis. 54853 Phone

715-472-2502

NEW YORK LIFE

TANGEN DRUG 124 Washington St. N. • P.O. Box 430 • St. Croix Falls, WI 715-483-3271

20% OFF ALL GIFTS ALSO 20% OFF SELECT CHRISTMAS NEEDS

• Christmas Wrap • Boxed Cards • Hallmark Ornaments

Thursday, Dec. 8 Sunday, Dec. 11

Call 715-866-7261

AT THE LODGE 24226 1st Ave. No. Siren, WI Local Movie Line 715-349-8888 timberstheatres.com

SHOW TIMES FOR FRI., DEC. 9 THRU THURS., DEC. 15

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Rated PG-13, 129 Minutes.

Fri. & Sat.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:15 p.m.

Sun.: 1:00, 3:30 & 6:00 p.m.

Mon.-Thurs.: 5:00 & 7:20 p.m.

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Joel L. Morgan, FIC

NEW YEAR’S EVE Rated PG-13, 118 Minutes.

Fri. & Sat.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:15 p.m.

Sun.: 1:00, 3:30 & 6:00 p.m.

Mon.-Thurs.: 5:00 & 7:15 p.m.

Assistant Financial Associate

Matt P. Bobick Financial Associate

201 Main St. S. • Luck, WI 54853

715-472-8107 office 800-500-2936 toll-free 22854A N1-07

THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN - PART 1 Rated PG-13, 117 Minutes.

Fri. & Sat.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:15 p.m.

Sun.: 1:00, 3:30 & 6:00 p.m.

Mon.-Thurs.: 5:00 & 7:15 p.m.

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Fri. & Sat.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

Sun.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00 & 7:00 p.m.

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DECEMBER 7, 2011 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Cade Engen has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in fourth grade and the son of Pam and Troy Engen. Cade has one sister, Makenna. He is a gifted math student who always is striving to learn more in math. The other students in class look up to him. He enjoys his two dogs Tia and Bullet and playing video games. Cade would like to be a scientist or LEGO designer when he grows up.

Thor Lundeen has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Gordon Lundeen and Lisa Maack. Thor is involved in choir and band. He enjoys stargazing, watching TV and listening to music. His future plans include going to college for astronomy. His greatest influences in his life are his friends. Thor is kind and very creative and shares his talents.

Kendra Mossey has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a junior and the daughter of Gary and Carol Mossey. Kendra is involved in choir, band, works at Frederic Grocery, in National Honor Society, volleyball, basketball and softball. She enjoys playing sports, hanging out with friends and watching movies. She plans to attend college. Her greatest influence in her life is her mom.

Carter Johnson has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in third grade and the son of Jason and Doni Jo Johnson.

Carter has been demonstrating good role-model skills while working in the classroom and out on the playground. He likes many subjects in school but music is the one class he likes the best. He enjoys playing hockey and hunting.

LUCK

Justus Pearson has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is the son of Heidi and Eric Pearson.

Justus is a hard worker with a good attitude about school. He likes to play sports and he shows good sportsmanship when playing with others. He also enjoys lots of outdoor activities. He has spotted many different animals while outdoors. He has a smile that makes others feel happy.

Colton Tretsven has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Melissa McQuay and Steve Tretsven. Colton shows up every day expecting and wanting to learn something new. He is involved in football, track, LINK group, AODA and has a part-time job at the Wilson Farms in Cushing. He enjoys hanging out with friends, hunting, fishing, fourwheeling and shooting trap.

ST. CROIX FALLS

Sarah Schaar has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Brian and Rebecca Schaar. Sarah is a pleasant student, who is well-organized, polite, a hard worker who strives to do her best. She is involved in band, choir, basketball, softball and track. She enjoys sports, baby-sitting, reading, knitting and four-wheeling. Her greatest influence in her life is her mom.

Eric Blaser has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Mark and Cassandra Blaser.

Eric comes into class with a strong personality, yet with an excellent work ethic. He has a good sense of humor and patience with others. He is involved with FFA, FCCLA, forensics, drama club, football and basketball. He enjoys hunting, fishing and sports. His future plans include attending UW-Barron.

Julie Haasnoot has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in fourth grade. At home she loves to play outside with her collie dog, Trixie. Julie has two brothers and one sister. At school she loves art and math.

She also likes to read. Right now she is reading “The Magician’s Elephant” to get ready for Battle of Books. When Julie grows up, she wants to be an artist.

Sawyer Brice has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Shannon and Matt Brice. Sawyer is involved in football, basketball, baseball and guitar lessons. He enjoys playing guitar, sports and video games. He likes hanging out with friends and reading. His favorite subject in school is social studies. Sawyer is a bright student who is well-liked. He is a leader in the classroom.

Nichole McPherson has been chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week.

She is a senior and the daughter of Ken and Michelle Rattei. She has an older sister and a younger brother. Nichole enjoys horseback riding, hanging out with friends, dancing and having fun no matter what she is doing. She is involved in gymnastics.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Jimmy Krenzke has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in third grade and is the son of Ryan and Maria Krenzke. Jimmy is an outstanding student who listens well, follows directions and helps others. He is a creative thinker and positive leader. He has a brother, Travis, in ninth grade. Jimmy played a lead role of the engineer in the production of “Polar Express.” He enjoys playing football and playing video games.

Delia Labatt has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Mary Labatt. Delia is a “take charge” kind of person, but does so with humor and tact. She can be counted on to get things done.

She is a very bright and cheerful person. She is involved in volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, track and student council. She enjoys participating in youth group and snowboarding.

Keenan Cook has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Ritchard and Jeanne Cook.

Keenan brings his quick wit and critical thinking skills to the classroom every day. His classmates respect him and teachers can count on him to lead class discussions. He enjoys playing basketball, football, hunting, fishing and riding fourwheeler. Keenan would like to become a pilot some day.

Alan Strabel has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Becky and Daniel Strabel. Alan enjoys farming, welding and hunting. He is extremely fond of John Deere tractors and loves to drive them. He is well-liked by all and is the defending two-time Mr. Siren.

He plans to attend WITC after graduation and would like to study to be an agriculture and power equipment technician.

Xander Hill has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. He is the son of Matt and Jennifer Hill.

Xander enjoys learning about animals. He was very excited about delivering food to families with his father for Ruby’s Pantry. His excitement for giving to others is a great example for all of us this holiday season.

Caleb Pardun has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Josh and Rachel Pardun. Caleb is polite, respectful and helpful to everyone. He also has a great sense of humor.

Caleb is an avid writer. He also enjoys reading, hunting, going in the woods and camping. He belongs to his church group Awana and is helping to build their new church in Danbury.

Leslea Wiggins has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of Annette Heller. Leslea is down to earth, cheerful, kind and likes to think outside the box.

What is really neat about her is she is so creative and always willing to try new things. Leslea is very talented. She plays four different instruments. She is involved in band, jazz band and Girl Scouts. She enjoys playing the piano and reading.

UNITY

Proudly Supporting Our Students Electricity • Propane 1-800-421-0283 www.polkburnett.com

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If You Would Like To Be A Sponsor Of

STUDENT OF THE WEEK Please Call 715-327-4236

Madison Simmerman has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in second grade and the daughter of Keith Simmerman.

Madison is a hard worker who always displays extra effort. She is always willing to help her peers and teachers. She shows great respect for all around her.

Kyle Vadner has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Duane and Angel Vadner and Amy Vadner. Kyle is a great addition to the school. He was chosen because he smiles every day. He has a positive attitude and good work ethic. He has a good personality and is working very hard.

Mitchell Krueger has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. He is a sophomore and the son of Janet and Robert Krueger.

Mitchell is involved in football and baseball. He enjoys snowmobiling, dirtbiking, hunting and fishing. His favorite class is Algebra 2. Teachers say that Mitchell always has a positive attitude. After school, Mitchell would like to attend college to be a game warden. He resides in Centuria.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 7, 2011

Coming eventss

DECEMBER

Happenings in the Upper St. Croix Valley communities

MONDAY/12 Amery

THURS.-SUN./8-11

• Weight-loss surgery education and support at the medical center, 5-6 p.m., 715-2-68-0597.

St. Croix Falls

• “Inspecting Carol” at Festival Theatre. Thurs. 2 & 7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387.

Balsam Lake

• Unity High School band and choir Christmas program at 7 p.m.

THURSDAY/8

Polk County

Amery

• Genealogy society’s holiday event at Bergstrand residence, noon. Call for directions, 715-268-9523.

Frederic

• High school band dinner/concert fundraiser. Dinner 4:45-6:30 p.m., concert 7 p.m.

Luck

TUESDAY/13

• NARFE meeting at Village Pizzeria at noon. RSVP by noon, Monday, Dec. 5, 715-268-8618.

Webster

• 4K- to third-grade Christmas program at the elementary school, 7 p.m.

• Lions Club Bingo night at Luck Lions Hall, 5:30-8 p.m.

Amery

Siren

• Cancer support group at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 7 p.m., 715-268-6722 or 715-68-7290.

• K thru 6th-grade winter program at the school, 2 p.m.

Frederic

FRI. & SAT./9 & 10

• Fourth- and fifth-grade Christmas program at the elementary school, 7 p.m.

Taylors Falls, Minn.

• Valley Christian School Christmas bake sale at First Baptist Church. Fri. 3-7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-noon.

FRI.-SUN./9-11 Luck

• Holiday art sale at Cafe Wren. Fri. & Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-472-4700.

FRIDAY/9 Clear Lake

THURS.-SUN./15-18 St. Croix Falls

Shirley Nelson of Grantsburg submitted this photo of a piebald bird, believed to be a chickadee, taken at the bird feeder at the Nelson home last month. “It has a white head, a few touches of black and pink legs,” Nelson noted. “We see it at the feeder nearly every day.” Photo submitted

Falun

• Christmas cookie and baked potato supper at the Methodist church, 3:30-7 p.m.

• Christmas cookie walk at Trinity Lutheran Church, 9 a.m.-sold out, 715-463-3630.

Hertel

Frederic

• TRAILS Conference for Native American youth at the St. Croix Tribal Center, 800-236-2195, Ext. 5310 or 5311.

Siren

• NW Regional Writers meet at the Pour House, noon.

St. Croix Falls

• Fish fry at American Legion, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Auxiliary bake and craft sale.

SAT. & SUN./10 & 11 St. Croix Falls

• “A Laura Ingalls Wilder Christmas” at Festival Theatre, 2 p.m., 715-483-3387.

SATURDAY/10 Amery

• Ruby’s Pantry at Congregational Church. Doors open 7:30 a.m. Dist. 8:30 a.m., $15 donation, 715-268-7390.

• Northern Lakes Center for the Arts presents “Joy to the World,” 7:30 p.m., 715-268-6811.

• The Alzen Family performs at Balsam Lutheran Church, 7 p.m., 715-268-9291.

Danbury

• Christmas at the Fort at Forts Folle Avoine, 11 a.m.6 p.m., 715-866-8890, www.theforts.org.

• Christmas holiday cookie walk at St. Luke Methodist Church, 8 a.m. ‘til gone.

Hertel

• TRAILS Powwow at the tribal center gym, open to the public, 800-236-2195, Ext. 5310 or 5311.

Luck

• Maple producers meeting at Anderson’s Maple east of Luck, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

Osceola

• Santa at Larsen Auto, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 715-294-4010.

• Community Homestead craft and organic gift fair at the community center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-294-3038.

St. Croix Falls

• Hingepoint meeting for men battling sexual addictions, at River Valley Christian Church, 9 a.m.-noon, 715483-5378.

Trade Lake

• Old-fashioned Christmas program at Trade Lake Swedish Mission Church, social 6 p.m., program 7 p.m.

• Open house at the town hall, 5-6 p.m.

Webster

• Cookie walk and Christmas bazaar at Webster Grace United Methodist Church, 8:30-11 a.m.

• Santa’s at the community center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

SUNDAY/11

• “Inspecting Carol” at Festival Theatre. Thurs. 2 & 7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387.

ONGOING Every Day

AA &/or AlAnon, Polk & Burnett counties, 715-931-8262 for time/location. Amery, 715-268-8431.

Dresser

Divorce care support group at Apple River Community Church, 715-268-8360, 715-268-2176.

Falun

Indianhead Barbershop Chorus meets at the Balsam Lake Government Center, 7:30 p.m., 715-483-9202.

Baby and Me class - Amery Medical Center, 1-2 p.m.

Grief Share support group at Centennial Hall, Amery, 715-268-2176 or 715-268-8360.

Moms In Touch International, First Baptist, Amery, 2 - 3 p.m., 715-268-5408, www.momsintouch.com

• Service of Remembrance at Peace Lutheran Church, 2 p.m.

• Annual Christmas play “Clueless at Christmas,” at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2 p.m.

Milltown

• Candle lighting with the Compassionate Friends Northwoods at the Lutheran church, 7 p.m., 715-5531152.

Siren

• Head injury support group at Siren Covenant Church, 1-2:30 p.m., 715-349-8985.

• Humane society buffet & silent auction at Adventures, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 715-866-4096.

Trade Lake

• “Symbols and Expectations” cantata at the Baptist church, 7 p.m.

Voyager Village

• Christmas in the Village, Santa, dogsled rides, etc., noon-3:30 p.m., 715-259-3910.

MON.-SAT./12-17 Milltown

• Operation Christmas drop-off at Unity VFW basement, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 888-351-9627.

Every Monday

Every Tuesday

Bingo - Burnett County Moose Lodge, Siren, 6 p.m.

Survivors of domestic violence & sexual assault support group, Polk Co., 800-261-7233, 6-7:30 p.m.

Anger management group at Amery Regional Medical Center, 6:30-8:30 p.m., 715-268-4094.

Every Thursday

Breastfeeding support group at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center, 2-3:30 p.m., 715-483-0431.

Narcotics Anonymous meets at the Serenity House (old jail), Balsam Lake, 7 p.m., 612-205-2321.

Every Saturday

AA meets at the West Denmark Lutheran Church, rural Luck, 9 - 10 a.m.

Open skate at The Lodge Center Arena, 6:30-8:30 p.m..

Visit the Web site: burnettyouthhockey.com.

Grantsburg Lions take home the trophy

by Carl Heidel Leader staff writer DANBURY - Thursday, Dec. 1, was showdown time for the Burnett County Lions clubs as the Burnett County Historical Society hosted the annual Christmas tree decorating contest at the Forts Folle Avoine historical site. And when the judges finally announced the winning tree and team, the Grantsburg Lions had taken the trophy for the second year in a row.

Every year during the holiday season,

Judging the decorated trees proved more difficult than expected, according to the judges for the event. Pictured at the task are (L to R) April Highstrom, Bremer Bank, Danbury; Julie Kannenberg, Adventures, Siren; and Cindy Olson, Burnett Dairy, Alpha.

the clubs each decorate a tree around a theme, and according to strict rules. This year’s theme was The North Pole, and trees had to be fresh cut, fully decorated and 7 feet high from base to top.

The judges commented that all entries were outstanding, and that choosing the best was difficult.

The Grantsburg Lions team won the decorating contest for the second year in a row. Pictured are (L to R) Bennie Johnson, Gerald Johnson, Dale Soderbeck, Mel Sick, Linda Anderson and Diane Plain. – Photos by Carl Heidel

The ornament topping the winning tree displayed the contest theme North Pole.