Leader|dec 16|2009

W E D N E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 6 , 2 0 0 9 • V O L U M E 7 7 • N O . 1 7 • 2 S E C T I O N S • S E C T I O N A

• “Best Christmas Pageant Ever” @ SCF • Elementary concerts @ Grantsburg, Unity • Holiday Indulgence concert @ Grantsburg • Bluegrass gospel concert @ Amery • Carriage rides with Santa @ Balsam Lake • Sleigh rides @ Frederic • Old-fashioned Christmas @ Trade Lake See Coming events, stories

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Leader INTER-COUNTY

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An award-winning weekly Reaching more than 7,500 readers

Serving Northwest Wisconsin Shining stars First H1N1 death in Polk

$1

Underlying health condition plays factor PAGE 24

Sleigh parade nears See CURRENTS

Man pleads not guilty to homicide charge Rural Luck man bound over for trial PAGE 3

County will hire administrator Decision made with no debate PAGE 12

Santa came to town See Currents section

Holiday deadlines The next two issues of the Leader will be published a day early - on a Tuesday - due to our holiday schedule. Deadlines for ad and copy will be Friday, Dec. 18, at 4 p.m. for the Dec. 22 issue and Monday, Dec. 28, at 9 a.m. for the Dec. 29 issue.

- Editor

SPORTS

Outpouring of help “overwhelming” Early morning fire claims home of rural Luck family PAGE 2

Recall election

Candidates for Luck village board profiled PAGES 11-12

Teen stabs teen

16-year-old stabs 18-yearold; claims self-defense PAGE 25

Blizz boys on top in Two Rivers Conference Inside this section

Vote on Whispering Pines zoning issue this Thursday

County supervisors may hear 11th-hour appeals PAGE 14

First-graders Karter Richison and Grace Otto (background) played stars in “Santa and the Star Search,” part of the Frederic 4K-3 Christmas program presented Thursday, Dec. 10. Other stars in the production were Dante Marcyan, Oscar Lahti, Seth Haaf, Tysen WInk, Sabrina Dueholm and McKenzie Christian. More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Gary King

A success story Grantsburg Golf Course gives $12,000 profit to village; three years in the black after six years of losses

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG – “Our lease states that we must pay half of our net income to the village for rent,” Dave Huff told the Grantsburg Village Board Monday night, Dec. 14.

“For 2009, we are paying 100 percent

of our income to the village.”

With that statement, Huff handed over a check for $12,000, with the stipulation that the excess proceeds of $6,000 be used to purchase golf course equipment. Huff and his partners in Grantsburg Golf Course LLC, the group that has leased the village-owned nine-hole course for the past three seasons, made their final annual report to the village.

Next season the course will be leased to John Addison, the manager

See Success story, page 4

Five Grantsburg residents have turned the Grantsburg Golf Course into a profitable operation during the three years they leased the village course. Shown at the village board meeting are (L to R) Dave Huff, Stan Peer, Craig Selander, Pat Kutz and Dana Olson. - Photo by Gregg Westigard

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

A cooperative-owned newspaper, the Inter-County Leader is published every Wednesday by the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837. Second Class postage paid at Frederic, WI 54837.

MANAGER Doug Panek dougpanek@centurytel.net EDITOR Gary B. King gbking@centurytel.net STAFF Nancy Jappe njappe@centurytel.net Tammi Milberg tammi@centurytel.net Marty Seeger mseeger@centurytel.net Brenda Sommerfeld brendals@centurytel.net Sherill Summer sherill33@gmail.com Gregg Westigard greggw@lakeland.ws Carl Heidel cheidel389@centurytel.net Priscilla Bauer cilla@grantsburgtelcom.net Mary Stirrat marystirrat@hotmail.com Greg Marsten marscafe@lakeland.ws EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Raelynn Hunter rael@centurytel.net

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Fire destroys rural Luck home

Outpouring of help “overwhelming,” owner says

by Mary Stirrat LUCK — An early morning fire last Thursday, Dec. 10, took the home of Elmer and Sue Eliason, completely destroying the home that has been the residence of the family for the past 80 years.

The Eliasons smelled smoke at about 4 a.m., after their dog, Sophie, had become agitated and kept them awake. Sue Eliason tried calling 911, but the phone line was already dead. The couple hastily dressed, then went to the nearby home of their daughter to make the call.

Cushing firefighters arrived on the scene between 4:30 and 5 a.m., said fire Chief Merle Larson. With mutual aid from Luck and Milltown, firefighters were on the scene until 2:30 p.m. At least 35 firemen responded, along with Frederic EMTs. “They basically lost everything,” said Larson. The cause of the fire is undetermined, but it started in the basement and got into the walls. The Eliasons believe that the age of the wiring in the oldest part of the house may have been the cause.

For the first hour of the fire, said Sue Eliason, no flames were visible but the smoke was dense. Three times firefighters thought that the fire had been extinguished, only to have it begin again in the walls.

The Eliasons and Sophie made is safely out of the house, but not their cat. Many fourth- and fifth-generation heirlooms were lost in the fire.

On the other hand, said Eliason, precious photos were saved, along with the Christmas presents waiting to be taken to their daughter’s home. Also saved was the genealogical research her mother had done.

“The Cushing Fire Department went above and beyond,” said Eliason. When told the location of the safe where the genealogical materials were held, the firefighters cut through the wall to recover it.

The records, including thick albums of family histories written by her mother, along with original photographs, go back to the 1400s on one side of her family and to the 1600s on the other.

As firefighters were battling the fire, said Eliason, friends, neighbors, church family and even strangers were arriving to offer help, support, food, clothing and household materials.

“The outpouring of help was overwhelming,” she said. “There’s no way of expressing how much that meant. There has been a steady stream of people for three days. I didn’t know we had so many friends.”

After the firefighters left, friends were there into the evening, helping to empty out Elmer Eliason’s workshop so looters

Billows of smoke towered over the trees and silo at the home of Elmer and Sue Eliason on CTH N near Luck Thursday morning, Dec. 10. The fire completely destroyed the home, which was built about 80 years ago. The property has been in the family nearly 100 years. — Photos submitted

would have nothing of value to find.

“It’s a total miracle in itself,” said Eliason. About 30 people were on hand, bringing trailers in which to haul the possessions. “It looked like an auction,” she said. “There are a lot of tools a man collects over the decades.”

Pastor Greg Lund of the Frederic Evangelical Free Church took a role in rounding up the help after hearing of the fire a little after 7 a.m. He contacted members of his church, where the Eliason’s attend, and members of the ALERT Cadet group of which he and his sons are a part.

By about 6 p.m., said Lund, the tools and other materials had all been removed to a safe location.

“A few of us hung around a little bit longer,” he said. “As we were there, the last wall fell.”

The remains of the home were still smoldering Tuesday, five days after the fire.

Eliason said that they would rebuild on the property, but have no definite plans yet. The property has been in the family since 1910, said Eliason, and plans were in the works to celebrate it as a Centennial Farm next March.

“We’re just very grateful to all the people who have been helping us,” she said.

“And we just can’t say enough about the firemen who came out and spent so much of their time trying to save what they could.”

The Eliasons are also grateful for their dog, Sophie. “She’s our wonder dog,” said Sue. “She just wouldn’t let us sleep.”

Peterson seeks return to county board POLK COUNTY - Former Polk County Supervisor Jeff Peterson has announced his candidacy for another term as District 5 representative, a position he held from 2006 to 2008. District 5 includes the towns of McKinley, Johnstown and Georgetown.

Peterson and his wife, Nancy Stewart, are 25-year residents of the town of Jeff Peterson Georgetown.

A reading teacher in the Unity School District for 23 years, Peterson currently serves as secretary of the Polk County Board of Adjust-

ment and chairman of the renewable energy committee. He also represents District 5 on the Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative board of directors.

“I’m running because we need people on the county board who have a positive vision of the kind of future we want for Polk County,” Peterson said in a statement to the press. “We can’t just keep doing things the way we’ve always done them.”

Among the changes he would like to see, Peterson said he supports two major reforms: reducing the county board to about half its current size of 23 and hiring a competent county administrator to provide better leadership. “The county is suffering by not having a chief executive officer,” he said. “Right now we’ve got one part-time chairman and 22 other supervisors going in 22 different direc-

tions.”

Peterson was a citizen member of the county’s planning commission and contributed language on sustainability to the comprehensive plan that was adopted in October. He said he is especially pleased that the new plan places a priority on protecting the county’s water resources and preserving its rural character.

In his first term on the county board, Peterson served as first vice chair and sat on the property and land information committees. He is proudest, he said, of his vote against selling the county’s Golden Age Manor nursing home.

Candidates for county board must submit the signatures of at least 20 electors from their home districts to the county clerk’s office by Jan. 5 in order to appear on the April 6 ballot. - submitted

Briefly As we settle into winter survival mode it’s good to know many among us have a holiday spirit and display it in part through their Christmas decorations. If you know of a lighting display that you think outshines the rest, please send us an e-mail and/or e-mail us a photo for publication: theleader@centurytel.net.

••• BURNETT COUNTY - The county’s extensive snowmobile trail system is now open for public use thanks to recent snowfalls.

Authorities remind snowmobilers to drive with care. “Don’t outrun your lights at night and ride safe and sober,” says Burnett County Sheriff Dean Roland. The sheriff’s department’s recreational deputies will be out patrolling the trails, Roland says.

••• WEBSTER - The photos taken of children visiting with Santa at the Webster Community Center are ready and waiting for pickup at the Yellow River Pharmacy. The Webster Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors Webster Santa Day and photos with Santa. Please come and pick up your child's photo free of charge.

••• STATEWIDE - Unemployed Wisconsinites have yet to see a dime of the extended benefits President Obama approved six weeks ago. But that will change this week when the first checks are expected to be mailed out. Chris Marschman of the Department of Workforce Development said it took awhile to reprogram the state's computers to reflect the new payments, and it's not unusual to have delays of over 30 days because of the large number of people getting benefits. Unemployment benefits traditionally run for 26 weeks. But they now last up to 99 weeks as the result of six extensions approved in the past year because of the recession. - rivertowns.net ••• LUCK - Luck’s National Honor Society will be holding a toy and food drive on Dec. 21 and 22. Toys donated will be given to area children and the food will go to the Loaves and Fishes Food Shelf. Drop-off boxes will be located in the high school commons area during the high school Christmas concert on Monday evening and during Tuesday night’s doubleheader basketball game vs. Shell Lake.

- with submitted information ••• RICE LAKE - The free 2009 Finding the Authors Voice and Open Mic Series will conclude with a visit from the author of “North of the Port,” Anthony Bukoski. He will be in Rice Lake on Thursday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. in The Commons at the University of Wisconsin-Barron County. While in Rice Lake, he will also be making an appearance at the Rice Lake Public Library for Coffee with the Author. The public is invited to drop by for casual conversation with the author at 9 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 18, and enjoy coffee and rolls. For more information call 715-234-8176 ext.

5467 or e-mail joel.friederich@uwc.edu. - from UW-BC ••• FREDERIC - Free sleigh rides will be offered at Larsen Auto - Frederic this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Deputies witness suicide

FREDERIC - A 69-year-old Frederic man took his own life Sunday morning, Dec. 13, in front of sheriff’s deputies who had responded to his residence after getting a call from the man’s wife saying he had left the home with a rifle and was distraught and suicidal.

(John) Layton Webb was in a truck parked in the driveway of his residence east of Frederic when deputies arrived at the scene at approximately 10:21 a.m. Webb exited the vehicle with a rifle in his hands. Deputies on the scene gave numerous commands for him to drop the weapon, according to the incident report.

“Mr. Webb did not point the rifle in the direction of officers nor make any direct threats to them,” a press release from the sheriff’s office states. “At 10:28 a.m., Mr. Webb pointed the rifle at himself and fired the weapon, resulting in his immediate death.” - with information from Polk County Sheriff’s Dept.

w w w. t h e - l e a d e r. n e t

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Man pleads not guilty to homicide charge Gruesome details emerge at hearing

by Greg Marsten

BALSAM LAKE – Wayne Rouillard, 62, of Luck was bound over for trial after a preliminary hearing Tuesday, Dec. 15, facing a count of first-degree intentional homicide in the Nov. 28 murder of his “best friend,” Stephen Dahlstrom.

The Branch One courtroom of the Polk County courthouse was stone silent as testimony from two of the investigators and the county medical examiner became public. Some of the details that emerged in the hearing included revelations that Dahlstrom was brutalized with as many as six different instruments during the crime: A Phillips screwdriver, pry bar, hammer, splitting maul, carpet knife and a military knife.

The crime scene Polk County medical examiner Jonn Dinnies testified first, describing the scene in Rouillard’s garage, and his first impressions of Dahlstrom’s condition.

“My impression was that he had suffered severe head injuries,” Dinnies stated about his examination of Dahlstrom’s body at the scene. “Numerous, severe and blunt-force injuries.”

Rouillard sat silently in an orange jail tunic, and while the preliminary hearing does allow a redirect from a defense attorney, Rouillard attorney Mark Biller did little in the way of disputing the crime scene.

Polk County Sheriff’s Department sgt.

Ray Joy testified second, outlining the crime scene and what he observed that evening, both in the garage where Dahlstrom’s body was found, and in the attached breezeway, where Rouillard was being interviewed.

Joy said Rouillard was handcuffed, and that “His hands were covered in blood,” he said. “His shoes, his shirt, beard and pants were all covered in blood.”

The garage where Dahlstrom’s body was found appeared neat and orderly, Joy stated, and showed little indication of a struggle, except where the body was found.

“There was blood splattered on the ceiling, walls and pooled on the floor, going down the floor drain,” he said.

Joy then described finding Dahlstrom’s body, which he said had a knife stuck out of his upper chest, numerous cuts to his chest and that his feet had been tied with a type of rope to a vise on a work bench.

He then said that Dahlstrom’s head had suffered severe trauma.

“He looked almost unrecognizable,” Joy said, later adding that he could see a small amount of what appeared to be brain matter through the blood.

Rouillard’s story and demeanor Joy went in detail about what Rouillard had said happened, and said Rouillard insisted several times that they had not had a fight or an argument, in spite of the scene.

“He said there was none [fighting],” Joy stated. “He indicated that Dahlstrom was trying to kill him on the garage floor.”

He then described how Rouillard had changed his story “several times,” and that he had just minor injuries, including scrapes and a small amount of bruising.

Joy said Rouillard did not dispute that he had killed Dahlstrom, but said several times that Dahlstrom “had just snapped,” and tried to kill him.

“He described being on his back on the floor of the garage,” Joy said, “and then, in his words, he said he beat his brains out.”

When Joy asked about the knife, Rouillard seemed to change his story again, stating “Oh yeah, I forgot about that.”

The investigator went into detail about Rouillard’s demeanor, and he said that he ran down a list of items he might have used to kill Dahlstrom, including a hammer, a splitting maul, a Phillips screwdriver and even the carpet knife.

“He said he may have used that,” Joy said, adding he “maybe” used a pry bar, as well. “In his words, he said, ‘I had to destroy the (expletive).’”

Polk County Sheriff’s Investigator Sgt. Ray Joy (R) answered questions on the stand Tuesday morning in the Branch One courtroom of the Polk County Justice Center. In the foreground is attorney Mark Biller (left) and Wayne Rouillard. - Photo by Greg Marsten

Wayne Rouillard stands accused of first-degree intentional homicide in the killing of Stephen Dahlstrom on Nov. 28. - Photo by Greg Marsten Rouillard’s story continued to change several times, Joy stated, “But he indicated it was all in self-defense. And he did state ‘I may have went too far.’”

He also said that Rouillard appeared to be under the influence, although no blood alcohol content numbers were ever mentioned in the hearing.

The knife and the autopsy Polk County Sheriff’s Department investigator Pete Johnson then took the stand, outlining the autopsy, which was conducted over two days at the office of the county’s forensic pathologists in the Twin Cities.

Johnson said the reason the autopsy took so long was because of the extent of the wounds and the amount of blood on the body, and that by the time they reached the end of the first day, they still hadn’t done a thorough examination of Dahlstrom’s head.

He said the body was covered in puncture wounds, “My guess? I counted 36 wounds.”

Johnson also said Dahlstrom had four or five wounds on the back of his head from a Phillips screwdriver, and that his knees and elbows were scraped, as though they were “skinned.”

On top of that, Johnson speculated that Dahlstrom had a number of self-defense wounds, although Biller objected to the speculation.

Those wounds included stabs to the hand, thumb and webbing between the thumb and finger.

“There was so much to do, it took two days,” he reiterated.

Johnson said that during the autopsy, the previously mentioned knife was stuck out of his chest. He described it as about a foot long, with a blade just over six inches.

“It is what’s commonly referred to as a K-Bar knife in the military,” he said.

The judge’s determination No further testimony was revealed or offered, and with that, Judge Molly GaleWyrick said she found probable cause, and ordered Rouillard bound over for trial.

He then entered a plea of not guilty to the charges at a follow-up arraignment.

He remains held in custody on a $75,000 cash bond, which District Attorney Dan Steffen tried to have raised to $250,000, due to the nature of the crime.

“There was nothing of substance today that we didn’t know then,” Biller said, and GaleWyrick agreed, leaving it at the previous amount.

The preliminary hearing was originally scheduled for two weeks prior, but was delayed due to “medical issues” with Rouillard.

The next hearing on the matter is set for March 23, 2010, where all motions will be addressed. No trial date was set as of yet.

What wasn’t mentioned Several aspects of the evening and the crime itself were not discussed in the hearing, including what may have sent the two onto the garage floor, or the aspects of Rouillard and Dahlstrom’s friendship prior. It was known that the two men apparently met at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in the Twin Cities, and that Rouillard referred to Dahlstrom as his “best friend” several times during the initial interview.

Also not mentioned was a “black fabric bag” that apparently belonged to Dahlstrom and was still in Rouillard’s home after the murder. Rouillard had mentioned it during the initial appearance several weeks ago, stating it would “explain” what happened with Dahlstrom.

Rouillard’s past encounter POLK COUNTY - Wayne Rouillard was reportedly just several weeks away from completing three years of felony probation from an incident that occurred in the fall of 2005 at the same address.

According to court records, Rouillard was arrested on the night of Oct. 20, 2005, after two 13-year-olds, a male and a female, went to his house on request to help with outside yard work. It was after the work was completed that evening, sometime around 7 p.m., when according to the criminal complaint, one of the children‘s parents said the kids had come riding home very quickly on their bikes, “very scared and upset.”

According to their testimony, Rouillard had been drinking that evening and started cursing and screaming at the two kids. The boy was allegedly then locked in the house with the girl outside. Rouillard was alleged to have pinned the boy against the wall of his home and refused to let him leave, bruising his throat and larynx.

Rouillard then went outside, grabbed the girl by the shoulder, and said she shouldn’t leave until she admitted she was wrong.

“He just snapped,” the girl said in the complaint interview.

Both children were able to escape Rouillard and fled the scene on their bicycles. A subsequent interview by police had Rouillard admitting he had been drinking and went too far.

In a later plea agreement, a felony charge of false imprisonment was dropped with a guilty plea to a felony charge of child abuse.

Rouillard was ordered to have no contact with either child or their families, and was ordered to stay sober and enter AODA counseling. He also was ordered to pay $4,823.47 in restitution, and did several months in county jail.

His probation was scheduled to be completed in mid-December, just a few weeks after the date of the Dahlstrom murder.

It is unclear if the previous incident will be admitted as relevant to future proceedings, although he likely was in violation of the terms of his probation.

Greg Marsten

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Supervisors vote down a pay raise

Forest administrator to become a county position

by Mary Stirrat BALSAM LAKE — In what must have been the shortest meeting on record for the current Polk County Board of Supervisors, board members voted Tuesday night to hire a full-time county administrator (see separate story), to create a new position of forest administrator/parks assistant rather than contracting for a forester, and to not increase the pay for the incoming board of supervisors.

In October, Paul Pedersen, who has been under contract as the part-time county forester, requested nonrenewal of his contract for 2010. Discussion by the property committee, which oversees the forestry program, led to a decision to look into hiring a full-time forester/parks assistant who would be a county employee.

Employee relations director Andrea Jerrick presented information on the financial impact of hiring a full-time county employee rather than contracting for a parttime forester. Either way, a state-run county forest system grant will pay about half the cost of the salary and benefits package.

The current contract rate, she said, is $48 per hour, based on the recently hired forester hired at Barron County. At three days per week, contract costs would be $59,904, with about $29,952 paid each by the state and the county. This is about $9,000 more than the current contract.

Hiring a full-time county employee would be an estimated $86,647, including $25,975 for benefits. Jerrick said that about $44,000 of this would be the county’s responsibility, which would be offset in part by eliminating a park intern position at $8,500 per year.

Bottom line, she said, additional costs to the county for having a full-time forester/parks assistant would be about $5,725. This amount would gain 832 additional hours of work each year.

Parks director Debbie Peterson, in whose department the new position will be,

added that the employee would also provide assistance with park ordinances and enforcement, grant writing and administration, and supervision of other parks employees.

According to Jerrick, Polk and Barron are Polk County Em- the only counployee Relations Di- ties with rector Andrea Jerrick. county forests that contract for a forester rather than have one on staff.

Polk County’s forest was established in 1935, and includes more than 17,000 acres.

The county forestry committee just awarded $211,00 in timber-cutting bids, said committee Chair Mick Larsen, with more than $600,000 in contracts over the next two years.

The resolution to hire a full-time forest administrator/parks assistant in the parks, buildings and solid waste department was approved on a voice vote, with at least one supervisor opposed.

Raise for supervisors A resolution to increase compensation to board members beginning after the April election was defeated by a vote of 19 to 3.

All 23 seats on the board are up for election.

Supervisors currently receive $60 for a regular committee meeting, $40 for a second or special meeting, and $100 for a county board meeting. There is a daily cap of $100.

In addition, the chairman of the board receives $5,000 per year, and the first vice chair receives $1,000.

The proposed raise would provide $75 for a regular committee meeting and $50 for a second or special meeting, with a daily cap of two meetings per day. If it had been approved, the increase is estimated to have cost the county an additional $15,000

per year.

A survey of 20 counties scattered throughout Wisconsin, compiled by Jerrick, showed Polk County to be fourth from the top in terms of board compensation.

The Polk County Board “I have a of Supervisors elected real problem Steve Warndahl to anwith this other four-year term as resolution,” Polk County highway said Supercommissioner, beginning visor Larry V o e l k e r . Jan. 1. The election took County em- place during the Dec. 15 ployees had meeting of the board. – to forego a Photos by Mary Stirrat raise, he said, and he didn’t feel it appropriate for supervisors to get an increase.

“I believe this is an ill-thought-out move,” agreed Supervisor Gerald Newville. “I think it’s a death wish.”

Newville said he was referring to supervisors voting themselves a raise when they were up for re-election in a few months.

He indicated that he would not be seeking re-election for another term.

“I recommend we continue as we are,” said Newville. “I have considered it a pleasure to serve. I’ve considered it an honor. If you’re here for the money, probably you shouldn’t be here.”

“The raise will only start with the new term,” said Supervisor Patricia Schmidt.

“We cannot vote ourselves a raise. The county board hasn’t had a raise in 10 years.”

Supervisor Craig Moriak said that it is very difficult for individuals with a fulltime job to serve on the board without more compensation.

“We should get a raise so we get people to run,” he said.

Supervisor Bob Dueholm pointed out that he attempted to reduce the mileage

the expansion would divide the course and change the layout for several holes. Huff reported that the course has been redesigned to fit with the expansion. In addition, an irrigation system has been installed, the clubhouse has been renovated, and tops have been put on the golf carts.

The second goal was building use of the course and returning it to self-sustaining operation. Huff said that play is up 39 percent over 2007 and the course was in the black for 2007, 2008 and 2009, the three seasons the group leased the course.

Huff said the third goal of finding an ongoing plan to operate the course has been achieved with the agreement with Addison. The course now has a long-range business plan, in writing, which should guide its future.

When the group signed the lease in May of 2007, they promised that they would not take any wages from the operation (not even free golf memberships) for their work managing the course. Huff reported that the promise had been kept. Gains were put back into the course and the accumulated retained earnings of $10,400 are being donated to the Grantsburg Village Improvement Plan for future use on the course.

That fund, earmarked for the golf course, will now have a balance of $22,166.

“We have to give thanks to many people and groups that supported us over the past three years,” Huff said. “That includes the village board, staff and crew, the golf course employees, the fire department, the VIP volunteers and the community.”

Huff added thanks to the Farmers Independent Telephone Co. and the Burnett

Diane Stoneking, chair of the human services board, discussed posters being distributed by the Polk County Mental Health Task Force.

The posters encourage youth who are being affected by negative relationships, bullying, and other factors to contact the task force for help. rate for county board supervisors, hoping to help the budget and set an example. He said that, rather than receive an increase in compensation, the board should “run smarter.”

Voting in favor of the increase were supervisors Schmidt, Moriak and Russell Arcand.

Other business • In a closed session lasting about 45 minutes, the board discussed a counteroffer from Rice Partnership to settle pending litigation against the county regarding an attempt to sell Golden Age Manor.

• The board approved the 2010 contract with Anoka County, Minn., for the provision of medical examiner services. Cost of the contract is $34,000, which is included in the 2010 budget.

• The board approved the annual resolution authorizing the county council of aging to request $115,434 in state funds for transportation services for the elderly and disabled. The county commits $23,087 in tax dollars to the program, which has been included in the 2010 budget.

Success story/from page 1 for the past year.

Three years ago the village was considering closing the golf course. It had lost money for six straight years, used up all its reserves, and was kept in operation with funds from the village budget. After a year of discussion and debate, five local residents, Patricia Kutz, Dave Huff, Stan Peer, Craig Selander and Dana Olson, stepped forward with the offer to lease the course.

Huff reported that the group had three goals in the spring of 2007 and has met all of them.

The first goal was to renovate the course.

That renovation was necessary because Burnett Medical Center was about to enter an expansion phase which would involve constructing a new entrance road from Hwy. 70 across land the hospital owned.

That land had been used by the course and

Medical Center for their initial funding.

Back in 2007, the phone company offered a grant of $25,000 for work on the course if the community would raise an additional $50,000. That $75,000 was part of the funding used to pay for a new green for hole 3 and a new tee for hole 9. Additional funding for that redesign came from a $60,000 contribution from the medical center.

Thanks was also offered to village board member Dean Tyberg. Huff said it was Tyberg’s offer to lease the course for $1 when all other offers were gone that led to the formation of the Grantsburg Golf Course LLC. “That offer ended a yearlong quest on what to do with the course,” Huff said.

“What a difference a dollar can make!”

Grantsburg golf course was hot topic three years ago

Village board almost rejected lease idea in 2007

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG – The future of the Grantsburg golf course was the talk of the town back in 2006. The village-owned, nine-hole course was losing business and money. The Burnett Medical Center was about to build a new entry drive which would divide the course and alter two of the holes. Residents and the village board had hard decisions to make.

The issues were diverse. Was there still a market for a nine-hole course? Why weren’t people using the course? Should the village subsidize the course? Was there a better use for the property in the heart of

the village? If the course was to stay open, how would the renovation cost be covered?

The financial story started coming out in the summer of 2006. A story in the July 6 issue of the Leader reported on a five-year string of losses that erased all of the course’s reserve. A fund balance of $122,515 at the end of 2000 was gone and the village needed to spend $26,257 in 2005 to cover losses. Total revenues were down, from $153,214 in 2000 to $105,132 in 2005.

Meanwhile expenses for that period had risen from $138,851 to $142,121.

The village budgeted $35,000 for the 2006 loss and pondered the future of the course. A study done in the fall of 2006 reported that the “Best Use” for the property would be a mix of residential and commer-

cial development. It was estimated that the property had a value of $180,000.

A survey sent to 576 municipal water accounts drew 229 responses (40 percent) with a split message. When asked if property taxes should support the course, 92 said no, with the others approving of some level of support. The response on whether the village should do everything possible to keep the course open was 99 yes, 103 no.

And 80 said the course should be closed while 114 said no to that question.

The close difference of opinion was reflected when the village board took up the issue on Feb. 5, 2007. A resolution was proposed which said that the course would stay open if a lease for the course operation was settled by April 1 and $50,000 in community funds for course improvements

was raised in six months. That resolution passed on a vote of four to three. Voting yes were Mark Dahlberg, Davis Walters, Dean Tyberg and Tim Tessman. Opposed were James Nelson, Tim Swenson and Roger Panek. Of the seven, Dahlberg, Tyberg, Nelson and Panek are still on the board.

Several lease proposals came and went before an agreement was reached on April 30, 2007, with Grantsburg Golf Course LLC, a partnership of five local residents, Dave Huff, Patricia Kutz, Stan Peer, Dana Olson and Craig Selander. That group turned things around in the three years of their lease and are now passing on a profitable operation.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Supervisors vote may fine-tune administrative committee

by Sherill Summer SIREN - At one point in the discussion at the policy planning committee on Friday, Dec. 11, Burnett County Administrator Candace Fitzgerald claimed that all of the county’s six standing committees had important oversight work to do for the county.

One committee in particular, the administration committee, has oversight on all personnel and financial decisions, including final approval of all grant applications and oversight on the register of deeds, treasurer and information technologies departments. Many of the decisions made by the administration committee never come before the full board of supervisors.

A case in point is the decision to move the veterans services office from its present location in the government center into an office in the ADRC. The idea surfaced a couple of months ago in an administration committee meeting, Oct. 26.

One reason it came before the committee is potential cost savings.

By moving the office, receptionist staff could be shared with other offices in ADRC, and the county could potentially cut one position. The decision to move or not to move the office is, in part, a personnel decision and under the jurisdiction of the administration committee.

The day-to-day jurisdiction of the vet-

erans services department is under the health and community services committee. Moving the veterans services office was on the agenda in that committee on Tuesday, Dec. 8, for discussion only, and on the agenda of the policy planning meeting of all supervisors on Dec. 11.

There was no actual vote, only discussion, and it was apparent in the policy planning meeting that there is more than one opinion among supervisors of the value of moving the office.

But the opinion of seven supervisors on the administration committee will decide the matter later this month, on Monday, Dec. 21, and the vote will be final.

No representation The administration committee changes every two years. After each biannual election of county supervisors, a county chairperson and vice chairperson are elected by the full board. The county chairperson then, working closely with the county administrator, assigns various supervisors to each of the six standing committees. Each supervisor sits on two committees.

Once the six committees are formed, the supervisors in each committee choose a chairperson and vice chairperson among other offices in each committee. It is usually the first order of business for each committee after an

election.

There has been a perceived problem by some of the supervisors because currently the administration committee does not have any members of the infrastructure committee. The infrastructure committee gives oversight to the highway department, airport and county buildings, and the highway department especially, is among one of the county’s biggest departments. Because there are no infrastructure committee members also on the administration committee, the infrastructure committee does not have any voice in the decisions made by the administration committee affecting their departments.

At its monthly meeting this Thursday, Dec. 17, the county board will vote on a resolution that would insure that all committees are represented on the administration committee. Five supervisors, Rick Anderson, Ro Endresen, Eldon Freese, Maury Miller and Chris Sybers, have forwarded a resolution that would change the administration committee to consist of the county-board chairperson, the county-board vice chair person and the chairpersons of all five of the other committees.

Chairperson opposed County board Chairperson Phil Lindeman is opposed to the idea and wants to

continue having the chairperson pick the administration committee as well as all the other committees, arguing that the chairman should be able to pick supervisors with experience in contract negotiations to be on the administration committee because that is part of that committee’s duties. He concedes that all committees should be represented on the administration committee and he suggests that the standing rules be changed to ensure that in the future all committee’s will be represented.

Other supervisors who favor the resolution argue that having the chairperson pick the administration is too much power in one individual, and since the committee chairpersons are elected by the committee members, having them also sit on the administration committee spreads the power out more. They also pointed out that a special subcommittee could be set up for contract negotiations; and furthermore, Supervisor Gary Lundberg pointed out, the county administrator is the primary negotiator during negotiations anyway.

One possible amendment that seemed to be gathering force during the committee meeting was to change the resolution to read that the elected committee chairperson could appoint someone to the administration committee if he/she did not want to sit on that committee.

Siren native named regional president of Johnson Bank

EAU CLAIRE – Johnson Bank announced a new president for the Northwest region of Wisconsin.

Craig Hokanson was appointed president of Johnson Bank, part of Johnson Financial Group, the $5.7 billion financial services parent company of the bank and Johnson Insurance Services. In the Northwest, Johnson Bank has locations in Hayward, Spooner, Rice Lake, Menomonie and Eau Claire.

A native of Siren, Hokanson succeeds Walter Jaeger, who retired after more than 30 years with the bank. Jaeger will now serve on the bank’s regional advisory board and will remain in Hayward.

“Our clients are in good hands with Johnson Bank and with Craig,” said

Jaeger.

Hokanson has been the regional commercial manager for the bank until now, responsible for leading the commercial sales team, along with oversight of the commercial loan portfolio since Craig Hokanson 2006. He has also been an active member of the bank’s regional leadership team which focuses on strategic planning, human resource

planning and business development initiatives for the region.

“I’m excited about this new opportunity and will continue to build on what was started with a single office years ago,” said Hokanson.

Previous to joining Johnson Bank, Hokanson, who resides in Cumberland, held various positions of increasing responsibility at other banks. He has been in the banking industry for 20 years Hokanson, who began his new role on Dec. 1, will continue to develop his leadership teams and team of financial advisors and plans to add one other position of leadership in the Hayward community.

Johnson Bank is a member of Johnson

Financial Group, a premier financial services company offering comprehensive financial solutions in the areas of banking, trust, insurance, investment management and leasing. The $5.7 billion financial services company has operating companies in Wisconsin and Arizona. Principal owners of Johnson Financial Group are members of the Samuel C. Johnson family. Helen Johnson-Leipold is chairman of Johnson Financial Group and chairman, chief executive officer and chairman of the board of Johnson Outdoors Inc. in Racine. For more information visit www.johnsonbank.com and www.johnsonins.com. - submitted

County still thinking of moving veterans services office

Final decision will be made during administration committee meeting

by Sherill Summer SIREN - Discussion at a policy planning meeting focused on whether or not to move the veterans services office into the Aging and Disabilities Resource Center in the Burnett County Government Center. Currently the office is near the main entrance on the first floor, but the county government could save some personnel costs if the office is moved because the veterans services could share support staff with other offices in ADRC.

Several veterans and other interested citizens spoke against the move during the public hearing portion of the policy planning meeting held Friday, Dec. 11, mainly explaining that veterans might not feel comfortable if the office was moved and the veterans services secretary Linda Anderson is important to the overall veterans services office. Several county supervisors tried to reassure those attending the meeting to speak out on the possible move by saying that the move was not entirely financial because the office would have a closer handicapped-accessable doors once a new door is installed on the east end of the building, better parking, better signage and an office that is bigger and has more windows than the current office.

Burnett County Chairperson Phil Lindeman suggested that those people who were concerned about the proposed moving of the veterans services office into ADRC go look at the proposed office space.

Many took Lindeman up on the offer and looked at the corner office.

“Where is Linda going to sit?” was the most common comment among those previewing the space. – Photos by Sherill Summer

B u r n e t t County veteran Tim Tjader pointed out that the secretary in the veterans services does a lot for the department and should have a private office as well.

Current limited-term Burnett County CVSO Chris Sower read a letter from a veteran who was unable to attend the policy planning meeting that discussed the potential moving of the veterans services office. This veteran was one of many veterans that have spoken against the move, not only at this meeting, but at two other committee meetings that discussed the move as well.

Another consideration, brought up during the discussion, is that many of the funds for Burnett County veterans that go through the veterans services office are state funds and so the office would better fit in with the ADRC that is operated separately from the county government.

Not all in favor Not all supervisors spoke in favor of the move, however, nor were many vet-

erans that went to the ADRC to look at the proposed office convinced that the office would better suit them. It was pointed out the proposed office has less room because there was no room for the veterans services office secretary.

“Where is Linda going to be?” was expressed more than once. The veterans visiting the ADRC complained that the county supervisors really did not understand how much Anderson does for the office.

The discussion at the policy planning meeting was the third time that potentially moving the veterans services office was on a committee agenda. It was discussed at the administration committee meeting in October, at the health and community services committee on Tuesday, Dec. 8 and the policy planning meeting on Friday, Dec. 11. Final vote on the matter is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 21, during the administration committee

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

New library project moves forward

Larsen may donate former dealership building before end of year

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER - The money is in the bank from the Community Development Block Grant that will pay for much of the transformation of the former Larsen dealership building on Main Street into a new Burnett Community Library.

But before the project can get under way, a series of contracts with the Department of Commerce and MSA Professional Services must be signed. The contracts were on the agenda last month, Nov. 11, but action was tabled until Terry Larsen could get a proper assessment on the former dealership building for tax

purposes.

On Wednesday, Dec. 9, the village board learned that Larsen was able to get the needed assessment and is now ready to donate the property to the village, possibly by the end of the year. Now that the village is certain that the building will be donated, they were ready to sign contracts with the Department of Commerce and MSA Professional Services.

The contracts needed to be signed by Jan. 15, 2010.

An architect will now start working on the plans for the library in earnest, and construction is expected to begin in 2010.

The village has decided not to condemn the Larsen property to reduce liability during the cleanup of the known petroleum contamination on the property. It is not known what cleanup the DNR will require the village to do, but PECFA funds are expected to cover the

cost of the cleanup once the library spends more than $10,000 in cleanup.

The DNR will be notified of the contamination once property ownership is transfered to the village.

Other business Jeff Postler from Webster Schools has notified the village of his intent to donate four sets of horseshoe pits along the Gandy Dancer Trail next year.

The village was notified that it will re-

Services set for Mary Webster Funeral services will be held Thursday, Dec. 17, for Mary A. Webster, 53, town of Somerset, formerly of St. Croix Falls, who died Dec. 11.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 510 Germain St., Som-

8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Siren - second Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Rice Lake - Monday, Tuesday, Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday - 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday - 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

New hours at the 30 five-day offices and 57 part-time locations will provide customers with more options, take better advantage of staff resources and continue to meet customer demand.

DMV reminds customers that there are many services, like vehicle registration renewal, that do not require a visit to a service center and are available 24/7 at www.wisconsindmv.org. - from DOT

(Client will pick one food shelf and go there unless they move closer to another.)

Grantsburg Community Food Pantry Serving residents of the Grantsburg School District Open Thursday 9-11 a.m.

Located at southwest door of village hall/police department, 316 S. Brad St., Grantsburg, 715-463-2405 Indianhead Community Action Agency Serving all Burnett County residents Open 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Located at 7410 CTH D, at the corner

Due To The Christmas Holiday, The Deadline For Articles & Inter-County Ad Copy For The Published on Tues., Dec. 22 Will Be

715-327-4236

715-349-2560

501889 16-17L

Friday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m.

Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association 24154 State Rd. 35N Siren, Wis.

of CTH D and State Hwy. 35, between Siren and Webster, 715-866-8151 Siren Food Shelf Serving Siren School District Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Thursday Located inside Ruby’s Second Hand building at 24534 State Hwy. 35/70, 715-349-RUBY (7829) To make food shelf donations, send check or money order to: Burnett County Hunger Task Force, P.O. Box 535, Siren, WI 54872

“There is nothing sadder in this world than to awake on Christmas morning and not be a child.”

Erma Bombeck

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

303 N. Wisconsin Ave. Frederic, Wis.

erset. Visitation is from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. preceding the funeral at the church.

Arrangements are by the Edling Funeral Home of St. Croix Falls.

A complete obituary will appear in a future edition of the Leader.

Burnett County emergency food shelves

Starting January all DMV customer service centers have new hours STATEWIDE - DMV customer service centers across the state will begin new hours of operation on Jan. 4, 2010. Customers planning to visit a DMV customer service center in the new year should note the schedule change and be sure to double-check the hours of their local center before heading out to visit.

Following are new hours (beginning Jan. 4) of area DMV centers: Amery - first Tuesday, 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Luck - third Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Spooner - first Wednesday in January, March, May, July, September, November

ceive a $2,400 dividend from the State Municipal Local Government Property Fund. Village clerk/treasurer Patty Bjorklund believes that the dividend check will cover about a quarter of next year’s property-fund premium.

The village approved a $100 Christmas bonus for the village’s six full-time employees and a $50 Christmas bonus for the village’s six part-time employees.

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Frederic village adjusts fees Dollar General building is for sale

by Brenda Sommerfeld FREDERIC – It was requested by a Frederic Village trustee that the village fees be compared to similar village fees.

During the December village board meeting, each trustee was given a worksheet comparing each of the village fees with those of both Luck and Siren. It proved that Frederic fees were similar to the other villages.

Village Administrator Dave Wondra suggested that the zoning fees remain the same. It was asked that it be looked into to see if there are any late fees for building permits. Wondra was going to check on that and if there is no fee, set one up.

The sign permit, to have a business sign out, was increased from $10 to $25.

The Class A Beer license is now $25 and Class A Liquor was increased to $100 from $90. Class C Wine license was put into effect at a price of $50, for anyone who would be selling wine by the glass in the village.

The cigarette licenses are now $25 compared to the prior $15. Mobile home permits were increased from $25 to $50, and a fee of $10 was installed for any insufficient checks used to pay for utility bills.

All other fees remain the same as they have been for the past several years.

Dollar Store building for sale Wondra stated he’s been asked why the Dollar General is on a Web site for sale. Wondra explained to the trustees that the Dollar General stores are not owned by Dollar General, that Dollar General enters into a long-term lease with the developer. The developers eventually try to sell the property.

“As far as I know, Dollar General intends to open up its doors, I would guess around the first week in March,” Wondra said. “The village has no input on this.

We don’t own the property. We aren’t building the building. There’s some confusion on that.”

The Web site loopnet.com lists the 9,000-square-foot Frederic Dollar General for sale at a price of $789,000. It’s one of five Dollar General Stores in Wisconsin that are for sale, including Colfax, Darlington, Necedah and Redgranite.

Municipal court abolished During the budget process, the village of Frederic chose to abolish the municipal court. Villages have the choice to do that whenever the judge is up for re-election. This term is over in April of 2010.

The judge would like to see the court wrapped up at the end of this year, but the clerk is unsure if it can all be completed by then. The clerk of court will meet with the Frederic Finance Committee to decide on what funding will be needed between January and April.

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – At least three Polk County supervisors are not running for re-election in April. With the filing period for board candidates half over, candidate names are slowly starting to appear. Several incumbents have not announced whether they will be running again, and there are two open seats where there are no candidates. County board candidates must file a campaign registration statement with the county clerk before they start collecting the signatures necessary to get on the April 6 ballot.

The latest supervisor to announce his retirement is longtime board member Gerald Newville in District 23, the Clear Lake area. His daughter, Gerianne Christensen, is running for the seat. Joan Peterson, District 2, and Craig Moriak, District 12, are also retiring. Former board member William Johnson IV is running for Peterson’s seat which includes Frederic and most of West Sweden. No candidate has come forward for the Moriak seat in the Clayton area.

There is also no candidate for the vacant St. Croix Falls seat, District 8, formerly held by Keith Rediske. County board Chair Bryan Beseler has an-

The Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper.

Habitat looking for lot Wild River Habitat for Humanity board member and volunteer coordinator for Polk County, Ernie Naumann, addressed the village trustees asking if there are any lots in the village or surrounding area that anyone would be willing to donate or sell at a reduced rate for the next project.

Wild River Habitat merged with Burnett County’s chapter and will be building one home in Burnett County and one home in Polk County each year for lowincome families to better their living situations. The organization just finished a home in Amery and have another lot available in Amery, but would rather have the opportunity to help in other communities.

Other business •The approval of the outdoor recreation plan from the park board that was on the December meeting agenda was tabled until the January meeting. Dates and projects were updated on the plan that will be distributed to the trustees before the January meeting.

•Unless a lower bid for liability insurance is provided to the village, Wondra was advised to accept Legal Municipality Insurance’s proposal of $19,188.

•The two-year terms of appointed election inspectors were approved from the same list as two years ago.

•Frederic Village will hold their caucus on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, at 6:30 p.m.

•An estimate to realign Traffic Avenue will be brought to the planning commission at their next meeting for them to make a recommendation to the village board about the project.

•The Division 8 company is still remodeling the building on Hwy. 35, but hope to be in by this spring.

Three supervisors not running No candidates for several board seats

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

nounced that he will not appoint an interim supervisor to fill the seat until April.

There will be at least three contested seats. Incumbent Herschel Brown will face former board member Jeff Peterson in District 5 (Johnstown, Georgetown and McKinley). Incumbent Brian Masters will face James Drabek in District 10, the Balsam Lake area. Incumbent Mick Larsen is being challenged by Warren Nelson in Amery.

At press time, incumbents Bob Dueholm, James Edgell, Beseler and Gary Bergstrom had not announced if they are running again. Kristine Kremer-Hartung has filed for the District 17 seat (Dresser and parts of the towns of St. Croix Falls and Osceola) held by Beseler. Other persons have expressed an interest in running in various districts but have not returned their campaign registrations.

Candidates have until Jan. 5 to register and collect the 20 signatures required to be on the ballot. Incumbents not seeking re-election must file a declaration of noncandidancy by Dec. 28.

All 23 seats on the Polk County Board are up for election. This will be the last election using the present district lines.

New district boundaries will be created after the results of the 2010 census are announced.

VOTERS OF LUCK, WISCONSIN RENTERS, SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS, FACTORY OWNERS AND HOMEOWNERS VOTE ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 22, AT THE LUCK VILLAGE HALL FROM 7 A.M. TO 8 P.M.

Vote For: X Richard J. Williams vs. Eugene Cooper X Donald B. Tomlinson vs. Marsha Jensen We Pledge To: #1: Vote to eliminate the $70,000 position and expenses of the Village Administrator as a wasted, unneeded expense to all of the taxpayers in the Village of Luck. #2: To listen to the concerns of our taxpayers in our village in all matters that concern them. #3: We will not do anything without consulting our village attorney Mr. Bruce Anderson so we will only do items that are legal in Wisconsin to benefit our village and its taxpayers. #4: We will respect our elected Village President and look to her for her excellent abilities and guidance in all matters for our village and its taxpayers. #5: We will work with the Township of Luck and the community of West Denmark, to rebuild the excellent relationship we used to have with them. #6: We will work to try and keep our taxes in line as much as possible. #7: We will vote to table at this time in our present recession/ depression period anything to add to our tax expense for the development of our industrial park land of 35 acres that the Village of Luck currently owns.

502194 17Lp 7ap

X Donald B. Tomlinson X Richard J. Williams Paid for and sponsored by Recall Petition of Luck, WI, Donald B. Tomlinson, Treasurer

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

L e a d e r Results from last week’s poll:

We b Po l l This week’s question:

To take part in our poll, go to www.theleader.net and scroll down to the lower left part of the screen

Of the following, which is your favorite Christmas movie?

1. “It’s a Wonderful Life” 2. “Christmas Vacation” 3. “A Christmas Story” 4. “Miracle on 34th Street” 5. “A Christmas Carol” (1938) 6. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 7. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M Times article

Some of us may appreciate our politicians simply for agreeing with our personal philosophies. Others admire them for bringing a bit of savvy, experience and hopefully, independence, to their jobs.

Hopefully we can all do both.

Our Congressman Dave Obey, who along with Brett Favre has probably experienced the most public display of age discrimination in Wisconsin history from their critics, has made headlines more recently for being the face of opposition to his own party’s president regarding Afghanistan.

The New York Times this week published an insightful piece on Obey in which the 71-year-old legislator draws a parallel between Afghanistan and the painful lessons of Vietnam.

“I came here in ’69, and I determined that I would give Nixon a year to see what he could do, because he had inherited the war, so I bit my tongue for a year,” Obey said in the Times article, recounting how he reminded the current president of the mistakes of that earlier war. “I said the same thing with Obama.”

Obey, as the article points out, didn’t wait quite a year, but 11 months, before he went public in criticizing the president’s plan for a U.S. troop surge in Afghanistan at a cost of $30 billion.

“So at a time when Congress ‘has been lectured ad nauseam’ about paying for a health care overhaul without raising the deficit, Mr. Obey says the same standard must be applied to the war,” the article states. “He knows he will have difficulty getting his surtax passed; Ms. Pelosi opposes it. But he will have little trouble getting Democrats to scrutinize the president’s war budget request.”

Connecticut Democrat Rosa DeLaura is quoted as saying Obey’s questions echo those of other Democratic caucus members: “Do we have credible partners in Afghanistan and Pakistan? What is the mission? What’s the risk?”

“I didn’t come here to be Richard Nixon’s congressman, Reagan’s congressman, Obama’s congressman,” Mr. Obey said. “I’m here representing the Seventh District of Wisconsin.”

The article can be found at www.nytimes.com by typing in the search word “Obey.”

It’s worth the search.

Railroad has a nice ring

What would you rather have - the Gandy Dancer recreational trail or a highspeed train corridor?

Of course, the latter isn’t about to come in most of our lifetimes, but just the preliminary plans of building a passenger rail line from the Twin Cities to Duluth is getting rave reviews - despite cost quotes with the words “billion dollars” bandied about.

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that a public meeting in Cambridge, Minn., a city that would be one of the stops on the route, produced unflinching support. “Just get it done,” was one of the comments. Even after disclosure of cost, which some officials believe would be closer to $600 million than $1 billion.

In a perfect world, if not somewhat ironic, the old Soo Line railroad bed, now the Gandy Dancer Trail, could support railroad tracks again, attaching the metro area with Burnett County.

The benefits are obvious, not just for commuters but for tourism and potential growth in population. And, of course, there are drawbacks. People driving their own vehicles might be more likely to explore local communities, for obvious reasons.

With the instability of gas prices. DOT officials in Minnesota feel such a rail line would be crowded with passengers daily. They’ve proposed purchasing eight sets of trains to accommodate eight daily round trips from Minneapolis to Duluth, with trains reaching a speed of 110 miles per hour and covering the 155-mile trip (one way) in slightly more than two hours.

Maybe Wisconsin and Minnesota could go together and offer two corridors between the two cities - one going through Burnett, Polk and Douglas counties.

Consumers like options.

Views expressed on these pages or by columnists elsewhere in the paper do not necessarily represent those of the Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association management or board

Editorials by Gary King

Where to Write

R a n d o m Ac t s O f K i n d n e s s

President Barack Obama 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 www.whitehouse.gov/contact/ Governor Jim Doyle P.O. Box 7863, Madison, WI 53707 wisgov@mail.state.wi.us

Congressman David Obey (7th District) 2462 Rayburn Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20515 or Federal Building, Wausau, WI 54401 (715) 842-5606 Rep. Nick Milroy (73rd District) Room 221 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8952, Madison 53708 E-mail: rep.milroy@legis.state.wi.us

T h e

Rep. Ann Hraychuck (28th District) State Capitol, P.O. Box 8942 Madison, WI 53708 Phone: 608-267-2365 • Toll free: 888-529-0028 In-district: 715-485-3362 rep.hraychuck@ legis.state.wi.us Rep. Mary Hubler (75th District) Room 7 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708 or 1966 21-7/8 St., Rice Lake 54868 (715) 234-7421• (608) 266-2519 rep.hubler@legis.state.wi.us U.S. Senator Herb Kohl 330 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510 (715) 832-8492 senator_kohl@kohl.senate.gov

Senator Robert Jauch (25th District) Room 19 South, State Capitol P.O. Box 788, Madison, WI 53707 E-mail: Sen.Jauch@legis.state.wi.us Senator Sheila Harsdorf (10th District) State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 (608) 266-7745 • (715) 232-1390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold SDB 40, Rm. 1, Washington, D.C. 20510 or 1600 Aspen Commons Middleton, WI 53562-4716 (608) 828-1200 senator@feingold.senate.gov

Gratitude is extended to the kindhearted person who, on the morning of Dec. 8, while plowing snow on 210th Street, stopped his snowplow to pick up our garbage can that had either blown over from the strong wind that night or a previous plow that had gone by. What a kind gesture from this Osceola Township employee. May you have a very merry Christmas. - Woody and Connie Minar, Dresser Have you witnessed the kindness of strangers – or of someone you know? Send us your story of someone who did something good just for the sake of doing it, and we’ll run it in this column. Please include your full name, address and phone number. Submissions may be edited. — Editor

Po s i t i v e Ta ke s “Pa, he always said a man had to look spry for himself, because nobody else would do it for him; your opportunities didn’t come knocking around, you had to hunt them up and hog-tie them.” - Louis L’Amour, author

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

Paper carriers These cold and snowy mornings when we are sitting in our warm homes or offices reading the newspaper, we should think of our paper carriers. They have been up since two o’clock or earlier to make sure that this is possible. They are out in the dark, avoiding deer, sometimes not being able to see through the fog or snow. The roads are not yet plowed. It is cold. Where are we? Sound asleep in our nice toasty beds.

Sometimes, like Thanksgiving Day, the papers are so large they fill their vehicles to the tops of the roofs. Think about leaning over and putting that heavy newspaper into the box.

So to Lynda and Tom Roden and all the other carriers, a big thank-you.

Gwen Klotz Frederic

Supervisor responds I just finished reading Supervisor Herschel Brown’s letter to the editor, and what can I say? It makes me want to scream!

But, really, Mr. Brown, if you thought I screamed at you, you are seriously delusional.

In your presence, I did ask Supervisor Brian Masters, who represents Balsam Lake, why a fisherman like him would cast a vote against funding a necessary land and water position. He simply shrugged off the question. I then asked Supervisor Mick Larson the same question. Mr. Larson responded that he “knew the motion would fail.” In fact, I never even spoke to you, because I knew very well how you stood on the issue. I was present when you spoke against funding the position at the county board meeting.

But don’t completely lose sight of reality: You are no friend of the environment, Mr. Brown, when you vote against funding a position for land and water, essentially balancing the budget on the back of Polk County’s natural resources. The land and water position that was cut was the only position singled out and cut from the budget after the finance committee’s arithmetical error was discovered: The only position.

Protection of our natural resources ought to be at the top of our priorities as stewards of these precious assets. I was disappointed with your vote, which I expected you would cast. I was equally disappointed with votes cast by 14 other members of the board of supervisors. But this is not the first time that I have been disappointed. I just think it was pretty shortsighted of you, as well the other supervisors who failed to act to protect that position, to vote the way you did knowing that the properties bordering our lakes, streams and rivers provide over 50 percent of Polk County’s tax base.

Diane Stoneking, Supervisor Polk County District 16 Amery

Another raise?

My latest property tax statement indicates that in spite of the fact that We the People are struggling with having to tighten our belts a little tighter and make do with less, our elected public servants in their infinite wisdom choose not to.

Unemployment has reached, and in many areas has exceeded, 10 percent, and jobs are tougher to come by, businesses are closing their doors, gas prices appear to be remaining fairly profitable, grocery prices are not falling, those on Social Security and veterans compensation will not receive a cost-of-living allowance, and so We the People are doing with less.

Good news is that when people are hurting, they pay closer attention to things in their life. In a recent TV talk show, a guest was a former advisor of some capacity in the Clinton administration and he was in-

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r

dicating that upward of 60 percent of the American public are likely to eliminate any votes for any incumbents in November of 2010. Bring in some new faces with no experience, new faces that do not have deep pockets for lobbyists money or other greed and corruption, establish term limits to curtail career politicians, develop less party allegiance and more Constitutional allegiance for what is right and what is wrong, and in the end, actually listen to what the people that elected them are saying and or enduring. I will proudly align myself with the 60 percent on all levels. Enough is enough!!

Leon Moe Luck

Dress code I’m writing in response to the letter from Sarah Funk.

Isn’t it a shame that the school has to set a dress code?

I, for one, applaud them. It’s the parents job to set rules, but it’s not happening.

The girls dress like “hookers” and then wonder why remarks are made. Nothing is left for imagination. Boys dress like “slobs.” Use common sense.

Get real, people. We read about sexual predators all the time.

Parents, if you really care for your children, set some rules yourself and then the school wouldn’t have to.

I drove school bus for 28 years, so I know where the school is coming from.

Martha Heiden Amery

It’s about self-respect The teacher from Luck should not be criticized for saying what he did about the school’s dress code. Here is an honest man willing to express something that girls need to understand but are not property taught about (unfortunately because many grown women have not been taught themselves and so have nothing to pass along).

Men are visual creatures by design and the way some girls (and women) dress has much more of an effect on them than they realize. Did the woman who criticized not see the word “stress” in the teacher’s quote or remember that the context was inappropriate dress? By this teacher’s comments, I see him as one who is trying to live an upright life, but how easy can that be when powerful visual images daily assault him from billboards, TV, magazine ads and women and girls he runs into throughout the day? He should not be criticized for asking for a little help, rather, he should be commended for speaking out.

Women have unfortunately bought into the marketing scheme that elevates sex and the lie that sex equals beauty and femininity. In actuality, modern dress for women and girls often cheapens the female body and takes away proper self-respect. What if women started getting the picture that marketers are only training us to look like hussies or soft-porn stars? Would we look at the situation a bit differently? Would we start training ourselves and our daughters to develop proper self-respect and at the same time help men live the upright lives many wish to be able to live a bit more easily?

Alise Leguizamon Dresser

Biblical truth Thank God for all the brave Martin Luthers who voted in favor of leaving the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

In the past, we have known many good people who have been a part of Faith Lutheran.

Martin Luther was a brave man. Every day, I think about how he stood up to corruption during his days on Earth. His work is an inspiration to us.

What is interesting is the fact that Luther took on the Catholic church during his

time. Even though we do not agree with all Catholic doctrine, the Catholic church in Madison is a clear voice on many moral issues of the day, while most Protestants here are running in fear. How did this happen?

In the Genesis lectures in Luther’s Works, Vol. 3, 255, Luther described homosexuality as “the heinous conduct of the people of Sodom as extraordinary, inasmuch as they departed from the natural passion and longing of the male for the female, which is implanted into nature by God, and desired what is altogether contrary to nature. Whence comes this perversity? Undoubtedly from Satan, who after people have once turned away from the fear of God, so powerfully suppresses nature that he blots out the natural desire and stirs up a desire that is contrary to nature.”

At every turn, we see reports of apostasy entering most denominations, as the absolutes of God are not preached. Many are turning to godless theories instead of the timeless simplicity of the Bible.

Currently, our organization of Underground Apologetics (UndergroundNews.us) is growing at a very fast rate because people want the truth without the politics from the Christian media-university complex that is taking the place of the church.

We are rated as one of the top apologetics ministries in the world, receiving thousands of hits per day. The first apologetics ministry in the world offered by a sports ministry.

We had a number of godly men from Faith Lutheran who supported us on the way to where we are now. I want to encourage those bold people who stood against the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s decision.

Madison’s Lakeview Lutheran, an ELCA church, recently had a Thanksgiving service that included Wiccans (witches) in the program. The apostasy will get worse in the ELCA. Many other denominations are leaving biblical truth.

We need a true revival in the world. It may be too late, however, we can rest assured that Jesus Christ is in control. We can have his peace despite the apostasy. We are not perfect but under grace’s construction.

Steve McConkey Underground Apologetics Madison (formerly of Dairyland)

Letter from Big Bank I received a letter raising my credit-card interest rate last week. I couldn’t understand the banking language so took it to a retired bank executive for translation. His version is “what the bank means.”

“Dear Sucker, “Recently Congress, in spite of our best efforts to bribe individual members to oppose it, passed a bill taking away some of our ability to stick you with whatever fees and interest rates we choose, whenever we choose. We managed to get them to delay the new rules for several months to give us time to figure out how to screw you anyway.

“We are changing your fixed interest rate to one that floats. That will mean a lot of extra money for us as the economy recovers from the damage we did to it with our get-rich-quick speculation and writing bad mortgages. The only way you can stop this change is to immediately pay off any balance and cancel your card thereby damaging your credit score significantly.

“The government is totally at fault for us making this change. Congress should get out of bank and credit-card regulation, except to bail us out when we do stupid things. Most of the money will go to paying bonuses to our dedicated executives who have stayed with us from the time they trashed our bank to the time we will recover. Our recovery depends on getting more money from you, so thank you now for your future pain.

“Sincerely yours, Big Bank of America” Russell B. Hanson Cushing

c o o p e r a t i v e ! o w n e d

Global warming is a religion I’m confused. Bernie Madoff lied to people in order to enrich himself and is spending the rest of his life in prison.

Al Gore lied to people in order to enrich himself and is continuing to do so at our expense. Why isn’t Al Gore sharing a cell with Bernie Madoff?

Apparently Big Al learned more in his year in divinity school about shaking money out of the pockets of the gullible than we ever gave him credit for.

Global warming/cooling – happens.

Global cooling is happening at my house right now. There never was any science to support this scam. It is theory based on incomplete or fake data bought and paid for by special interests like Al Gore who hope to profit from the lies they are spreading at our considerable expense.

Last week on the McLaughlin Group, Pat Buchanan stated there was no scientific proof of man-caused global warming.

Eleanor Clift of the McLaughlin Group stated that there was no proof of the existence of God, either. Praise the Lord and drill, baby drill! Ol’ Eleanor got one right for once … by accident, but, hey! Those of us who choose to be Christians accept the existence of God by faith. That’s what religion is. We choose to accept the concepts of our religion on faith without the need for scientific proof. Global warming is also a religion.

As Eleanor inadvertently pointed out – the advocates of the religion of mancaused global warming choose to believe it on faith – without the need for scientific proof. That’s fine, but don’t force your global warming religion on those of us who choose not to believe it. God bless Eleanor!

There still seem to be those who believe that cap and tax is about protecting the environment or that health-care reform has something to do with improving people’s access to quality health care. There is no truth in these assumptions of course.

Health-care reform, cap and tax, government takeover of the banking industry, and government takeover of the domestic auto industry are key components of the agenda of the Obamanation to destroy capitalism in the United States.

An article a couple of weeks ago said that a number of the “conservative bluedog Democrats” were not seeking reelection because of the unpopularity of the communist legislative agenda being shoved through Congress. Why wouldn’t they simply vote against it and earn the support of their constituents? They risk no financial downside by not running for reelection because they continue to get a full congressional salary forever—a practice that must end. But the opportunity to sell their support for a socialist agenda must be seen as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enrich themselves. I suspect that there is an auction going on in the halls of Congress in Washington, D.C., for the votes necessary to enable the Obama/ communist agenda that would make the sale of Obama’s Illinois Senate seat look like a tiddlywinks game at the old folks home.

Bob Blake Rural Frederic

Letters to the editor

The Leader welcomes letters to the editor.

Letters are subject to being edited for length, taste and/or clarity, and we urge writers to be brief and limit their letters to 500 words or less. Writers must provide their name and give their complete address and phone number. Content that will cause letters to be rejected include: Crude language, poor taste, disrespectful comments regarding a group’s or individual’s ethnicity, gender, religion, culture, sexual orientation or race; other incendiary language or personal attacks.

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Where is the media?

I get so tired of the liberal, anti-Christian, pro-gay, anti-rich media controlling the way news is reported.

They continually say that the Senate avoided a Republican filibuster on issue after issue. Are they really ignorant of rule No. 22, which states that it requires 41 votes to mount a filibuster? To my knowledge, the Democrats hold a 60/40 margin which allows them to do anything they want assuming there is no division. The Democrats also hold the majority of the seats in the House of Representatives.

Again, they can do what they want.

President Obama requested that the news regarding the killings at Fort Hood be minimized. Yet, when a black man got arrested in Massachusetts, he called the police “stupid.” Isn’t that a double standard?

If the person committing the killings at Fort Hood had been of anything other than black or Muslim, the media would make that headline news on a daily basis. Now, they are totally silent.

The media refuses to be honest about the Democratic approaches to legislation. They make a concerted effort to avoid the truth.

The poverty level (based on government statistics) has grown by 17 percent since Obama and the Democratic Party have taken over. The Democrats say they are for the working man. Maybe David Obey (Pelosi’s lap dog), Obama and others would care to comment. Maybe the news media would put that as front-page news.

Instead, the Democratic Party is rallying behind the new numbers hoping to gain more voters that are used to getting entitlements for everything from housing, food stamps, welfare checks, free cell phones and minutes, free medical care and free education. I thought Obama and his “crew”

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r

touted that they were here to help the working man. Maybe Obey, Obama and Herb Kohl would like to tell their constituents how cap and trade, global environment legislation, health care for those who don’t want to pay for it, defeating the bill limiting health-insurance companies executive salaries, increasing their own salaries by 2 percent and other legislation isn’t going to cost anybody anything. Even poverty-level people are going to suffer the financial consequences of all of these. I guess if everything is free, why worry?

Where is the media?

Obama is an outright liar. I recall him stating that he would publish names of individuals that add “pork” to any bill. I haven’t seen anything in the media publishing that list. Didn’t our highest office holder give out the names yet? Why hasn’t the media requested it? If it had been Bush, it would be front page on a daily basis.

Then our own local politician Ann Hraychuck votes to increase our car insurance, votes to close 38 Wisconsin wineries, votes to give illegal immigrants free education, and opposes any legislation that helps the people she supposedly represents. I have written letters to Obey’s and Kohl’s offices asking specific questions regarding upcoming legislation. Their responses have been a “canned response” letter from Kohl, and nothing from Obey. Did anyone notice that the House and Senate are computerizing their medical records, which will cost $24.1 million? The cost was nothing to the taxpayer, only the money was coming from the funding that was to be used for Social Security cost of living. I dare the media to ask questions on that one. Did anyone notice that Obey and Kohl voted against legislation limiting attorney’s fees for medical lawsuits? I guess their fellow thieves needed to be protected also. This also ensures medical premiums to continue to

rise. Obama has also promised that any legislation regarding health care will be vetoed if it contains any tort reform issues.

Where is the media?

Where is the media during all of this? I guess when the ultraliberals control all news media we will continue to get biased, half-truth, anti-Christian information and nothing more. If you are a working man or woman, the Democratic Party and the news media could care less about you until you join the ranks of entitlement, people across the nation.

Dave Wilhelmy Siren

Why? I have only written one other letter to the editor in my life. That was around 35 years ago. So, you’ll probably never see another one. No promises however.

I started reading about this proposed and now actual recall of Luck Village Board members. It blew me away. Our board members are not professional or career politicians. They do this as a service to the community. They do the best they can and we elected them to do just that.

Sure, if they had done something criminal, or immoral, maybe we should recall them.

I went down to the village hall to see who had signed these petitions (you can do that if you’d like to) and I only recognized about 10 of the 107 names on the petition.

Maybe that says something in itself. (Of course we’ve only lived here 15 years).

My apologies to those being put through this ordeal. Please stand tall and proud.

The recall is wrong!

The “Stop the Little Butternut Industrial Park” calamity, this one has me confused. I know the four members of the committee

that served in looking for an ideal place to expand industry in Luck. I respect them (Ed, Al, John and Chris) all and know their recommendation would have come from thorough research and would have been well thought out. I’m sure their question now is “Where else can we put it?” I do understand Lynn not wanting an industrial park across the street from his home and I acknowledge his right to speak out. I am confused about all those with signs in residents yards and their voices against the proposal. You are not only saying “No Little Butternut Industrial Park,” but you are also saying “please raise my taxes,” because you don’t want an industrial park to carry some of that burden. Those increased taxes have to go somewhere. Do you folks want higher taxes? No industrial park? Again, that begs the question, where then?

While I’m at it with my questions (remember, it’s been 35 years) here’s my last.

Why does Frederic have dumpsters for recycling that are open and unattended 24 hours a day, seven days a week and Luck’s are only open two weekends a month and we have a paid attendant present?

Finally taxes: No. 1 – If we hold a special election instead of waiting until April for the planned election, it costs more money. Our taxes will have to go up to pay for this special election. Maybe the instigator of these petitions will be willing to foot that bill?

No. 2 – Costs go up; if we don’t spread the tax base (to new industry), then our taxes must go up in Luck.

No. 3 – I’m thinking someone must pay the attendant. Probably you and me out of increased taxes.

Chuck Langeness Luck

Minnesota rejects Wisconsin income tax reciprocity proposal MADISON - Months after Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty ended the income tax reciprocity agreement with Wisconsin, and Gov. Jim Doyle had declared the issue dead, Wisconsin legislative leadership took extraordinary action to try and reach a deal with Minnesota.

Since both governors walked away from the negotiating table in September, state Rep. Ann Hraychuck, D-Balsam Lake, and state Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, RRiver Falls, took an active role in persuading Wisconsin legislative leadership to intervene.

Income tax reciprocity is an important agreement that helps tens of thousands

of border crossers each year, said Hraychuck. While Wisconsin legislative leadership was prepared to go into special session with an offer that was equitable to both states considering our current fiscal challenges and was actually better than Minnesota’s last offer to Wisconsin, Minnesota turned its back on the offer.

Wisconsin legislative leadership offered accelerated payments and interest in a Dec. 9, meeting that included Hraychuck, Harsdorf, key Wisconsin legislative leadership representatives, and Minnesota Commissioner of Revenue Ward Einess.

Minnesota has still not passed its state

budget, and just last week they learned that their budget deficit has increased by $1.2 billion. According to Einess, this was the driving force behind Minnesota declining the most recent proposal.

“This long-standing agreement should not have been scuttled for short-term budgetary gain as it was,” said Harsdorf.

“While I am greatly disappointed in both governors for failing to reach agreement months ago, I am heartened for the future of reciprocity because our state’s legislative leaders took unprecedented action to try to make this work.”

Wisconsin and Minnesota have had a tax reciprocity agreement since 1967. The

reciprocity agreement has allowed residents who live and work in the two different states to file a single tax return in their home state. Since there are more than twice as many Wisconsin residents who work in Minnesota, Wisconsin then reimburses Minnesota for the income tax it collects.

Hraychuck and Harsdorf expressed hope that once both states have new governors in 2011 they can get back to the table and restore a commonsense agreement that benefits taxpayers of the region. - from the office of Sen. Harsdorf

Area Ne ws at a Glance Hikers will go on trial

PINE CITY, Minn. - Three American hikers, including Minnesota native Shane Bauer, whose mother, Cindy Hickey, lives in Pine City, will go to trial in Iran, said Iran’s foreign minister. The hikers have been detained for over four months and are charged with espionage.

In an interview with Red Rock Radio in November, Hickey called the charges against her son and his friends “totally ridiculous.” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said there is “no evidence” to support the charges against Bauer, Sarah Shourd and Josh Fattal. The three have been in an Iranian prison since July 31. Their families say they accidentally crossed the Iranian border while hiking in Iraq. - redrockonair.com

Death blamed on bull, exposure to cold

ELMWOOD - An Elmwood man died Thursday evening, Dec. 10, as the result being trampled by a bull at his farm.

Dennis A. Churchill, 53, was found unresponsive and lying on the ice next to his barn after family members were unable to locate him for several hours, ac-

cording to Lieutenant Dennis Sorenson of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department. Elmwood Ambulance personnel and an Ellsworth paramedic were called to Churchill’s house at 5:04 p.m. Attempts by personnel to resuscitate him at the scene were unsuccessful and he was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Pierce County Medical Examiner John Worsing. Sorenson said the cause of death was blunt force trauma, caused by a bull attack, in conjunction with hypothermia. Churchill was currently serving as treasurer for the town of Rock Elm. - rivertowns.net

Cougar seen in Stillwater

STILLWATER, Minn. - Friday, two separate callers reported to Stillwater Police that they’d found cougar tracks around Bethany Church, Sunrise Park, Parkwood Lane and Croixwood Boulevard.

Dan Stark, a wolf specialist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, says someone spotted a cougar crossing CTH 5 around 10 p.m. Friday.

Paw prints were found throughout the area. Stillwater Police officers who responded said the prints were very large, measuring more than 5 inches across.

Some of the tracks showed gaps of approximately 7 to 8 feet in length where the animal had been running, police said.

Others showed gaps of around 3 feet, where it appeared the animal had been walking. Over the past several weeks, cougars have been spotted in Champlin and Vadnais Heights. It’s unlikely it is more than one cat. “It would be an awful coincidence if there were more than one cougar wandering around the metro,” he said. “I think they are all the same cat.” Stillwater Gazette

Goat chase

SUPERIOR - Are you, um, missing a goat? Employees at the Superior Waste Treatment Plant have spent their morning trying to capture a goat that got loose on the property. No one’s quite sure how it got there, but the goat, which has a broken rope around its neck, was reported loose in the city since at least 8 p.m. Sunday, said Ruby Berg, a staff assistant at the plant. She said animal control and employees from Dan’s Feed Bin in Superior will be on-site to try to capture the animal. “It’s not aggressive,” she said.

“Just scared.” - Superior Telegram

Bringing back choir music

HAYWARD - For 39 years the music that filled the halls of Hayward High School was that of Merrill Mohr directing the thousands of students who stood on his risers in the choir room and sang their hearts out. Now, a small group of people are bringing that music back, converting the old reels that Mohr carefully recorded–and which have been just as carefully preserved–to CDs. The first CD, which will be for sale in Hayward stores in time for the holidays, is a compilation of Christmas songs carefully selected from the years of Christmas concerts that Mohr directed, students sang in, and parents and community members attended. Barb Hand, who sang in Mohr’s choir during her high school years from 1968 to 1971, along with her husband, Steve, who also sang in the choir from 1967 to 1970–now the owners of Legends of the Celts–became aware that the old reel-to-reel tapes were still on the school premises a number of years ago. She took the tapes to radio station WHSM and had the years that she and her husband had sung in the choir converted to cassettes. - Sawyer County Record

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

P O L K

Incumbent, challenger on each ballot

C O U N T Y

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Luck recall election Dec. 22

by Mary Stirrat LUCK — Luck’s recall election to recall two village trustees will be next Tuesday, Dec. 22.

Voters in the village of Luck will have two ballots to cast. On one ballot will be the names of Trustee Marsha Jensen and challenger Don Tomlinson. On the second ballot will be the names of Trustee Gene Cooper and challenger Rich Williams.

On each ballot, the candidate who receives the most votes will serve on the board until the April election.

Any candidate wishing to serve beyond that time must be nominated at the January caucus and have their name placed on the April ballot.

Below is information presented by each candidate. All candidates were asked for whatever personal information they would like to include, their history in the Luck community, any experience that would make them effective board members, why they want to serve on the board, and for any other information they would like voters to know.

The incumbents, Jensen and Cooper, were asked how long they have served on the board and what they viewed as the board’s major accomplishments during that time. They were also asked to respond to issues raised on the recall petition.

The challengers, Tomlinson and Williams, were asked what they hoped to accomplish before the term ends in April, what the biggest issues facing the village are right now, and what they would do to address those issues.

Marsha Jensen Marsha Jensen has been a village trustee for about 10 years, first appointed to her position by former President Dave Rasmussen then re-elected each term.

She wants to continue on the board, said Jensen, because she believes that community servMarsha Jensen ice has been and will always be very important to her and her family.

Born in Amery, Jensen lived in Wisconsin until she was 4 years old. She then lived in many different states, attending 23 different schools including college at UW-Stout in Menomonie. She has been in Luck since 1976, when her husband, Mark, returned to work with his father at the family business, Jensen Furniture.

Jensen was very involved in the planning and construction of the new library and museum in Luck, working with a professional fundraiser to build the $1 million facility with only a $68,000 loan.

“I believe this to be a great addition to our village,” she said.

“Having lived so many places,” she said, “I feel I can work with many different people. I’ve learned almost all communities need community service. My business administration education at UW-Stout has helped me not only in our business, but as a board member.”

When asked for a response to the concerns raised in the recall petition, Jensen addressed both major areas of the petition.

“I did vote, as the whole board did, to make an offer to purchase and to purchase the land with many contingencies,” she said.

“Most of your village board, initially including your village president and the planning commission supported the in-

vestment in a business park for several reasons,” she said. “The primary reason is for Luck’s future. Standing still and doing nothing is in effect going backwards in today’s fast-changing world.”

A feasibility study estimated the cost to develop the business park at $3 million. “Nothing would have been done until state and federal monies would be secured to help with the project,” said Jensen, adding that the statement that she voted to purchase and develop the land at a cost of over $3 million is “simplistic.”

“It insinuates that all of these dollars would come only from the taxpayers of the village,” she said. “The intent seems to make us look irresponsible.

“The initial step voted on was only to purchase the property,” Jensen continued. “No other expenditures were approved. The land purchase would have had a village tax rate estimated to be approximately $7 on $100,000 of property value per year, or 58 cents per month.”

“Without a doubt, had the projected long-term cost of $3 million come from village taxpayers, none of us could have supported that. But that was never the intention of the village board although it was presented that way by the recall and recall presenter.”

Had the cost of development fell solely on the taxpayer, she said, economic development could not and would not happen anywhere.

A second issue listed on the petition as a reason for the recall is that Jensen voted to hire a village administrator.

Jensen said that, along with other community members, she realized “a need for a trained, full-time person to assist our current staff and serve the needs of our village residents.”

After a year of research, public meetings, speaking with consultants, doing an independent feasibility study and a study within the board, said Jensen, the current administrator was hired.

“She is qualified for this position through her educational background as well as her past work experiences,” said Jensen.

Among the village administrator’s “worthy accomplishments,” Jensen said, are an increased net gain of $22,000 at the golf course, participation in securing of two grants of $10,000 each, and increased efficiency in day-to-day operations at the village (for example, the combining of the positions of public works director and golf course superintendent into one position).

The administrator also is active in county and regional tourism promotion organizations and economic development agencies.

“Also note,” said Jensen, “the 2009 estimated villagewide payroll with the administrator will be essentially the same as 2008’s payroll without the administrator.”

To maintain our school and village, Jensen feels, the community must be prepared for change.

“Having gone to so many different schools,” she said, “I realize how wonderful our school is. The only way we are going to preserve our school is to increase enrollment and spread the tax base out to more Luck residents and businesses.”

The village must encourage growth, said Jensen, and growth means change.

“Just as we at Jensen Furniture have had to change to keep our share of the marketplace,” said Jensen, “Luck will change. Our new village administrator has skills to help make that transition.”

As the village has grown and changed, Jensen said, a volunteer board of trustees cannot “stay on top of the all the things needed to see that our village grows in a smart way.”

Seeking out state and federal money, with all the associated paperwork, and the needed recodification of village ordi-

nance both require a great deal of time.

“Many of the problems our village has, such as rentals that should be condemned or fixed up to code, can’t be addressed because our ordinances don’t allow us to do anything about it.

“Unless each board member has no outside job,” she said, “we can’t realistically devote enough time to do a good job to provide for the needs and growth of the village without a village administrator to help us.”

Jensen and her husband, Mark, have two grown children. Jacob and his wife, Sonja, live in Luck with their three children, Isabelle, Levi and Wyatt. Jacob is the fourth generation to operate the Jensen family business in Luck. Their daughter, Jackie Gordon, and her husband, Craig, have two children, Julia and Craig, and live in Farmington, Minn.

Donald Tomlinson Donald B. Tomlinson was born in Luck in 1935 and raised here, three working jobs while attending school. He is married to Marianne, and in their 53 years of marriage they raised three sons. He owns and rents apartments and houses for the “average-income Donald Tomlinson people” in Luck.

“I was only gone from the fall of 1953 to the spring of 1964,” said Tomlinson.

“I went to college at the University of Wisconsin at Eau Claire, then worked at JC Penney and Traveler’s Insurance.”

Tomlinson has been president of the Luck Lake Association, the commercial club, and president of the Luck Country Club for more than 35 years.

He also served a two-year term on the village board.

As vice president of Garot Christman Insurance Agency of Eau Claire for 181/2 years, Tomlinson helped oversee 65 employees, covering farmers with insurance in Minnesota and North and South Dakotas. He worked through their respective creameries with ITT and Blue Cross of Minnesota, with offices out of Sioux Falls, S.D., and St. Cloud, Minn.

“I feel I can listen to the people of Luck and serve their needs,” he said, “which is sorely needed in our village.”

When asked what he hoped to accomplish in the remaining four months of the term for which he is running, Tomlinson said, “Richard Williams and I plan on continuing to run for the next two-year term also, as requested by the 215 local names that we had on our recall petitions of Jensen and Cooper.

“We each also had 25 names on our own nomination paper.

“I will do only what is legal as a trustee,” he continued, “relying on our very capable village attorney, Bruce Anderson, and requesting he remain on the job.

“I will listen to your input and use the information obtained from you when making my votes as a trustee on your board,” he promised, “instead of listening to just a few individuals in the village.

“Thank you for your continued support and vote,” Tomlinson concluded.

Gene Cooper Gene Cooper moved to Luck in 1970 as editor of the Luck Enterprise, a newspaper he edited until 1988. He then went to the Burnett County Sentinel, where he retired after a heart attack.

“I have served on the village board a total of 15 years,” said Cooper, “with a period between terms while I worked out of town. I served on a number of village committees both as a member and

as a chairman.”

He is presently the chair of the finance and personnel committee and chair of the water and sewer commission, a position he has held for many years. He is on the ethics comGene Cooper mittee, and has served as a member of the planning commission, the golf commission, and as a trustee on the Big Butternut Lake Association.

“During my tenure I have initiated a number of changes in Luck,” said Cooper. “I initiated a loan to Jonn Dinnies, through Luck Telephone Company, to establish a medical clinic in Luck, since the departure of Dr. Tolan several years earlier. I was a member of the board that worked to get the present industrial park developed. I initiated the low-pressure sanitary sewer system to connect about 20 homes along the south shore of Big Butternut Lake to the village sanitary treatment system.”

Other accomplishments include being part of the program to build three retention ponds at a stream that feeds the lake to prevent phosphorus from the watershed, and initiating the plan to convert the water-meter system from a personal read to a radio read to save manpower costs.

“I also initiated the change from the cost of water hydrant rental from the tax rolls to the water utility,” he said, “to allow the charge for hydrants to include a number of previously exempt users to pay their fare share. I worked with the developer of a residential area south of the village to annex the property to the village, thus increasing the village tax base.”

Cooper addressed each of two issues listed as reasons for the recall election — the hiring of a village administrator and the pursuit of property for a business park.

The hiring of an administrator has “proven to be controversial,” said Cooper, but he considers it a “wise move” in light of savings resulting from reduced overtime, control of spending, and networking for economic development to increase the tax base.

He initiated the village administrator position, said Cooper, to prepare for the time when key village personnel retired.

“We hired a professional to do an independent feasibility study of the needs of the village. It proved the need for a manager to conduct day-to-day operations of the village. We then advertised the position for an entry-level person with appropriate degrees of education.

We felt it was best to start as cheap as we could, with the knowledge that hiring an experienced person for the position was beyond our financial means.

“We had about a dozen applicants that were reduced to four for interviews, and then down to two who presented themselves for a third interview. The person who we chose stood out head and shoulders over the second applicant.”

In a tight economy, noted Cooper, it is important to reach for the highest efficiency possible. “The administrator has earned a good part of her salary in savings in many areas in just her first year,” he said, adding that she is active in a couple of area tourism projects, has aided in writing two grants that enable work on Big Butternut Lake, and has networked with state and federal agencies that provide financial help for economic development.

“I have been criticized for promoting continued education for the administra-

See Luck recall, page 12

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

P O L K

Decision made with no debate

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Polk County to hire administor

by Gregg Westigard BALSAM LAKE – Polk County will be hiring a county administrator.

The decision to hire that form of county manager was made by voice vote with no debate in the fastest county board action on a major issue in recent times. The speed with which the supervisors made their decision seemed to surprise even them. One was heard to ask, “Don’t we even get to talk about the other options?”

The resolution was the last action item on the agenda for the Dec. 15 county board meeting. A special selection committee will now start the process of recruiting a person for the position.

That committee will include the board Chair Bryan Beseler, First Vice Chair Patricia Schmidt and Second Vice Chair Ken Sample. They will develop and implement a process which will include at least two department heads for the selection of a county administrator candidate.

That person will be recommended to the county board for approval.

The board was looking at choosing between two types of county manager, a county administrator or an administrative coordinator. The difference between the two jobs is defined by Wisconsin statutes. The duties of a county administrator are specified by the statutes and give clearly defined responsibilities to the position. The duties of an administrative coordinator are not specified in the statutes and allow a county to create its

board states that the board will create an advisory and oversight committee composed of three board chairs to evaluate the performance of the administrator.

The action Tuesday night brings to a close an evaluation process on how to manage Polk County that was started last summer. That process was directed by the personnel committee and included input from the corporation counsel. The committee was directed to bring a report on the county’s management options to the December board meeting.

The resignation of Keith Rediske from the Polk County Board of Supervisors, where he held the position of first vice chair, and Tuesday evening’s decision to hire a county administrator led to changes in the top positions on the board. Board Chair Bryan Beseler, right, appointed former Second Vice-Chair Patricia Schmidt, center, to Rediske’s position of first vice chair. He initially intended to keep the position of second vice chair vacant, to be filled upon election of the next county board in April, but the board’s decision to hire a county administrator requires the input of the second vice chair. Of four supervisors nominated for the position, Ken Sample, at left, received a majority of votes on the first ballot. The three form a selection committee for hiring an administrator. — Photo by Mary Stirrat own job description for the position. The county board chose the type of manager with a clearly defined job description.

The statutes say that the county administrator is the chief administrative officer in the county with powers to prepare and present an annual budget, coordinate the operations between de-

partments, and appoint, supervise, evaluate and remove department heads (except for those that are elected officials).

The administrator also makes committee appointments, which must be approved by the county board. The county administrator reports to the full county board.

The resolution passed by the county

Background In 1985, Wisconsin passed a law saying that counties without an administrator must designate someone as the administrative coordinator. For a number of years, that title was assigned to the chair of the Polk County Board. Polk County created the full-time position of administrative coordinator/finance director in 1997 and hired Frank Pascarella to fill the position. Pascarella reported monthly to the executive committee which originally included the board chair and the chairs of the governing committees. Pascarella was terminated in July 2004. After an interim period, the title of administrative coordinator was again given to the county board chair, but with no job description and no extra compensation for the new title. Two chairs, Larry Jepsen and Bryan Beseler, served under that arrangement.

The resolution passed Tuesday again separates the county administrative duties from the county board chair but does not re-establish an oversight roll for the executive committee.

Seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine offered in Polk to everyone over 6 months POLK COUNTY - The Department of Health Services announced Monday that local health departments and medical providers may now begin offering the H1N1 vaccine to anyone over the age of 6 months. While providers will continue their efforts to immunize those who are at highest risk of complications of influenza infection, vaccine supplies are now adequate to offer the vaccine to anyone who wishes to reduce their risk of acquiring H1N1 influenza.

The Polk County Health Department will be holding two public flu vaccine clinics after Christmas. Both the seasonal

flu vaccine and H1N1 vaccine will be available at these clinics. These clinics are scheduled for Monday, Dec. 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. and Tuesday, Dec. 29, from 9 a.m. to noon. These clinics will be held at the Polk County Health Department located in the government center in Balsam Lake. These are walk-in clinics and subject to vaccine supply.

H1N1 flu vaccine is free. There is a $25 charge for seasonal flu vaccine unless you are covered by Medicare or BadgerCare. The health department is also able to bill some insurance companies such as WEA and HealthPartners.

H1N1 activity is expected to continue throughout the influenza season and DHS recommends that all individuals, especially those on the CDC target list, get vaccinated as another wave of H1N1 cases could occur later this season. The H1N1 vaccine is safe and effective and even those who’ve had flulike symptoms should be vaccinated as there are a variety of respiratory illnesses that circulate during cold and flu season. Children age 10 and under require two doses of the H1N1 vaccine, with an optimal time of four weeks between first and second doses.

Seasonal influenza activity is expected to begin increasing soon. It is not too late to get vaccinated for seasonal influenza as it generally peaks in February and March. Anyone who wants to protect themselves from influenza should get vaccinated but the very young, the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions are especially encouraged to get vaccinated due to their increased risk of complications from influenza.

For more information visit their Web site at www.polkcountyflu.com or call the health department at 715-485-8500. from Polk County Health Dept.

residents or folks who don’t want it in their backyard. We have lost two industries because of the lack of space to expand and two others who would have built here if we had space for them.”

Another project that has “evaded” Cooper is an extension of Fourth Street South to South Shore Drive near the Luck School bus garage, to reroute much of the increasing traffic past the school.

“The growth of the area on the south side of the lake has resulted in more and more vehicular traffic,” he said, “and I fear for the safety of children.”

Cooper was widowed in 1993. He has three children, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

He has worked at Fawn Doe Rosa Wildlife Education Park at St. Croix Falls for the past 10 years, where he does maintenance and guides children’s groups through an educational tour.

Throughout his newspaper career he wrote articles for many outdoor publications. For a time, he was the Wisconsin editor of Wisconsin Outdoor News. He also served as the executive director of the Wisconsin Outdoor Communicators Association for several years.

etra Williams, have lived in Luck since 2004.

Their history here goes back much farther than that, however.

Williams’ parents first bought a cabin on South Shore Drive in 1947. Williams Richard Williams and his wife purchased it from them in 1988 and, having remodeled it, have lived there since 2004.

Saying that, until he is elected, it is hard to know what all is needed in the village, Williams feels that his time on the board of directors for the Northeast Minneapolis, Minn., Lions Club has given him experience that will assist him on the village board.

While he was on the Lions Club board, he noted, the pull-tab revenue was more than $1 million.

Of utmost importance, said Williams, is regaining the respect of the taxpayers.

He also feels it is very important to get a better working relationship with the towns of Luck and West Sweden.

Luck recall/from page 11 tor and village trustees,” said Cooper. “I admit that I am in favor of everyone who manages the tax funds to seek out the most recent and advanced information to make them more efficient.”

As professionals, he said, employees of the village need to continue their learning to retain certification. “The economic challenges of today make those lessons more important,” said Cooper. “Four other village employees regularly attend advanced education classes.”

Regarding the purchase of land for an industrial park, Cooper said he took the planning commission’s recommendation under advisement.

“Upon a report that the cost of utilities to that area were forecast as in excess of $3 million,” he said, “I rejected the project.

“But when the vote of the board was taken and was overwhelming in support of the proposal, I become part of the team in the belief that the minority needs to become part of a unified team rather than be divisive. As it turned out, it was a controversial issue with three former board members declaring the village board of trustees cannot be trusted with the natural resources.

“In order to provide utilities to the area in question, we asked the county

board for permission to cross their property. It was the first time in 29 years Luck went to the county for help. I was the only person to speak to the county board in favor of the project. Two village trustees, the village administrator and a citizen provided moral support. Numerous township individuals spoke against it and the effort failed.

“So I asked the village board to drop the project and they agreed. I doubt the village will ever have a friendly relationship with the township of Luck again.

That issue is dead and didn’t cost the village anything. But the anti-Luck efforts continue.”

Cooper said he is leaving the board when his term is up in April, regardless of the recall election. He said he wants to help his village in other ways.

However, said Cooper, he leaves the board with a few regrets regarding unfinished business.

“I have long wanted to increase our ability to locate new industry in Luck,” he said. Land currently open in the industrial park is owned by the occupants, and the board has no control over that land.

“Unfortunately, each attempt to find other lands nearby has either come under attack from the township of Luck

Richard Williams Richard J. Williams and his wife, Di-

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

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Touching lives through scholarships

Touching lives through scholarships

ST. CROIX FALLS – It is with great pride and excitement that the first recipients of scholarships through the Endowment Harvest Campaign are announced.

These staff members have accomplished career advancement through education while continuing to work and care for their families.

Nikki Bruner joined our campus as a CNA in July of 2000. For the past two and one-half years, she has attended Pine Technical College in Pine City, Minn., working on her LPN degree.

Moria Thayer joined the campus as a CNA in April of 2005. She also has been

Nicci Bruner

Moriah Thayer

attending Pine Technical College for the past two and one-half years working on her LPN degree.

Christine Goulet joined our campus

Christine Goulet

as an LPN in March of 2008. She began working on her RN degree at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire five years ago. After moving to the area,

she completed her RN degree at WITC in New Richmond.

All Good Samaritan staff members are called to care in a Christian community that offers respect, support and opportunities to grow. Bruner, Thayer and Goulet, will soon be scheduled to take their state boards for licensing. They applied for scholarship assistance to fund the licensing exams required fees. Because of the community’s generosity, they are able to get help with these fees.

Gratitude is extended to Bruner, Thayer and Goulet for their determination to advance in their careers. Gratitude is also extended to the donors, who without their generosity, none of this would be possible. - submitted

Endowment Harvest Campaign for staff scholarships update ST. CROIX FALLS – Beginning in September 2007 Good Samaritan Society in the St. Croix Valley took a bold new step into a fundraising campaign lead by Administrator Wade Reddy, the EHC campaign Committee and Good Samaritan Society Foundation staff from the national campus in Sioux Falls, N.D. Preparations for this campaign had been taking place for many months before the September kickoff date. The goal of the Endowment Harvest Campaign was to raise, through donations and pledges, $400,000 to be invested in an endowment fund where the earned interest would be used for staff scholarships now and into the future.

Recognizing the changing health-care climate, the aging baby boomers close to retirement and the predicted nursing shortage, Good Sam felt that this was the right time to reach out to the community for their support with this campaign.

Over 200 donors responded with their support. Today Good Sam has $183,352 in cash donations and pledges. There are six named scholarships: Margaret J. Chapman Scholarship, Elmer Peterson Scholarship, Fred and Delores Riegel Scholarship, The RiverBank-SCF Scholarship, St. Croix Regional Medical Center Scholarship and the Founding Families Scholarship.

Again, this community of friends, recognized the need to move forward through Christ-centered leadership as the founding fathers did back in 1967.

Providing the staff with knowledge through education as they walk into the evolving field of integrated senior care and housing is critical to the continued service to this community.

Gratitude is extended to those joined in this campaign. To those who would like to hear more about this missiondriven campaign, please call Administra-

Endowments are perpetual funds that are managed to bear interest. The principal of these funds remains intact, while the interest is put to worthwhile use.

Endowments allow people to do together that which would be impossible to do alone. Endowments support the commitment to continually improve the quality of care and the quality of tor Wade Reddy at 715-483-2710 or resource development coordinator Ginger

by Tammi Milberg TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – The city council for Taylors Falls met Monday, Dec. 14. They held a public hearing on the proposed 2010 budget which will be adopted on Dec. 28. There were no public comments on the budget or taxes during the hearing, which lasted about seven minutes.

The bottom line for Taylors Falls is that the city cut the budget enough to reduce the levy by nearly $35,000. The final total levy for 2009 was $659,522. The proposed levy for 2010 is $624,590. The local government aid to the city from the state was reduced, but the city also reduced the overall budget 10 percent, from $273,212 in 2009 to $243,897 in 2010. There is an increase in the property tax rate, however of .192, due to the reduction of LGA and other contributing factors. Mayor Michael Buchite stated that while other municipalities are increasing the tax rate by much more than Taylors Falls, he is pleased to see the tax rate for the city’s residence has increased by less than 1 percent.

The council will pass the 2010 budget and levy at the next council meeting.

In other business, the city is looking at applying for a Heritage Preservation Grant with no matching funds required for an amount up to $7,000. The city wants to use this grant if awarded to film a 45 historical piece on tourism and economic development on Bench Street and break it into segments. The video/audio presentation could be uploaded to the Web sitee YouTube and to the city’s Web page.

Another grant opportunity for the city is a 20-percent match for developing the trail system, which would cost the city

LaMotte, at 715-483-2720. – submitted

502165 17L 7a

Taylors Falls levy down despite reduction in LGA

life of those they have the opportunity to serve. The revenue that these endowment funds generate is put to good and vital use in many varied ways.

The endowments are administered by the skilled professionals of the Good Samaritan Foundation. Their able stewardship means that your endowment gift will yield benefits far into the future.

approximately $40,000 if the grant were awarded and the match made. This grant comes with the possibility of a state legacy, meaning that the state legacy money could be used with the federal enhancement grant, meaning no match would be required and the project would be covered financially 100 percent. The proposed trail area is one mile in distance and will connect Minnesota Interstate State Park Reserve, downtown Taylors Falls, neighborhoods in Taylors Falls and city parks. The council discussed the grant possibility and determined that zoning Administrator Larry Phillips should pursue the grant with the county’s approval. The council agreed it would not hurt to pursue the grant at this time and look at approving the application at the end of the month. The concern was the $40,000 that the city could be responsible for on the 20-percent match, but it was noted by Vice Mayor Ross Rivard that the city has this trail development included in their longrange plans and the 20-percent cost beats paying 100 percent of the cost down the road. The application approval will be voted on at the Dec. 28 council meeting.

The council also rejected a bid for the public works building project. The city originally was looking at building a public works facility and cleaning up the DOT property on Bench Street. However, the Chisago County Economic Development Authority indicated that the costs were prohibitive and they could not support the venture. The bid was for $253,000 for the building, but coupled with the $175,000 in cleanup costs, the city determined that the bid should be rejected.

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PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Festival thanks city for preserving building

City asked to encourage paving trail

by Tammi Milberg ST. CROIX FALLS – Festival Theatre Youth and Family Theatre Project participants were in attendance at the Dec. 14 council meeting in St. Croix Falls. They were on the agenda to do a presentation, which included singing a Christmas song, telling the council what each student has performed in and what they look forward to most about a rehabilitated theater building.

Many of the children present indicated they thought the elevators to help theater patrons who are elderly or disabled to access the performance area without using a ramp outdoors or climbing three flights of stairs would be the biggest improvement. Other statements given by the children indicated the improvement areas of the dressing rooms, heat and cooling regulation and “wasps not flying around” were important. Students stated that having the theater gives them the opportunity to be more confident when speaking publicly, begin acting as a possible career, and to have fun on a stage and experience acting.

The children passed out honorary Charter Member certificates for the What If Club to the mayor, council and city administrator. The certificate states, “Artists of all ages, board of directors,

Child participants of Festival Theatre’s Youth and Family Theatre Project sang a Christmas tune for the city council Monday night at the regular meeting. The group was present to thank the council for deciding to invest in preserving the historic 1917 theater building, which continues to provide opportunities for youth like the Youth and Family Theatre Project. – Photo by Tammi Milberg staff, volunteers, and patrons of Festival Theatre offer our sincerest thanks to the St. Croix Falls City Council for your recent action supporting the rehabilitation of the Historic Auditorium, home to Festival Theatre. We pledge our support to this effort and our promise to continue

producing excellent programs including our Theatre Series, Music Series, New Doors programming, and our Arts Education efforts. Rehabilitation of the Historic Auditorium will contribute to strengthening the economic and cultural base of our region through the develop-

ment of jobs, the synergy of a vibrant downtown arts and entertainment district, and, by fostering imagination, the true anchor of an engaged and thoughtful citizenship.”

The council commended the young people for their work and dedication in theater involvement.

In other business, the council was updated by Brook Wallin about the Amery to Dresser State Recreation Trail, which is 14 miles of nonmotorized trail following the abandoned railroad corridor.

Wallin stated that Polk County is receiving two grants totaling $1.2 million for the project. He indicated that he would like the city to support the idea of paving the trail in order to cater to bicyclists in the area and coming to the area as tourists. He said timing is important because the development of the trail will take place this summer and the final ideas for how the trail will be developed will be completed between now and Jan. 5.

The council indicated they supported a paved trail for bicyclists and motorized wheelchairs for the disabled and elderly to enjoy the trail as opposed to a limestone trail like the Gandy Dancer. The council indicated they would contact Polk County Parks and Rec. Director Debbie Peterson with their input toward paving the trail.

Ownership changes at Luck Pharmacy

LUCK — Kyle Johansen and Eric Dueholm, both of Luck, are the new owners of Luck Pharmacy as of Oct. 1. They purchased the business from former owners Ken and Alex Nelson.

Deb Roehm, also of Luck, took over head pharmacist duties as of Oct. 5.

Roehm has lived in Luck with her family since 2001. She is a 2005 graduate of the University of Minnesota – College of Pharmacy and has worked in retail pharmacy in the area for nine years.

Assisting her in the pharmacy will be Tara Yunker of Cushing and Anita Lundquist of Amery, as well as longtime technician Rachel Donald of Luck.

Johansen and Dueholm are excited about the venture. “We have a great team at the Luck Pharmacy and we are eager to continue providing quality service to our existing customers.”

Local businessmen Eric Dueholm and Kyle Johansen are the new owners of Luck Pharmacy. - Photo by Mary Stirrat

One area the new owners hope to expand is personal delivery. “Many people don’t know that we offer home delivery at no charge. We want to make things as convenient as possible for our customers. We are happy to deliver to your home or place of business at no extra charge,” noted Dueholm.

Johansen is a lifelong resident of Luck and is the president of the Luck branch of Sterling Bank. He and his wife Heather are owners of Bella Salon, with locations in Luck and Grantsburg.

Dueholm has lived in Luck most of his life. He is a commercial real estate broker for Minnetonka, Minn.-based Welsh Companies. His wife Amy, also a graduate of Luck High School, is a former internal auditor for Deluxe Check and joined Luck Pharmacy as the new general manager Oct. 1. — submitted

Supervisors may hear 11th-hour appeals in camp sale issue SIREN - Burnett County supervisors will vote this Thursday, Dec. 17, at their regular monthly meeting on a proposed zoning change for the former Whispering Pines youth camp lakeshore property

on Spirit Lake.

Approval of the change would pave the way for the planned development of the 171 acres by a group of investors, including local residents, who plan to cre-

Falls chamber selects executive director ST. CROIX FALLS/TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – The Falls Chamber of Commerce welcomes Cindy Stimmler as their new executive director starting Dec. 10.

Stimmler is familiar with the area as she has lived in rural Dresser for the last nine years. She has many years of business experience, knows how to foster team spirit and is knowledgeable about the use of media and communications.

Stimmler has also served as the past vice president of the Osceola chamber. In addition, Stimmler enjoys meeting new people, spending time at the river and the visual arts.

She has held many volunteer positions and currently is the business manager for the Friends of Wisconsin Interstate Park. She has also worked on the Minnesota side of the river as office manager for the Women’s Environmental Institute near Almelund. Stimmler describes herself as “motivated, outgoing, detail oriented and insightful.” She says she, “is a person who gets the job done.”

Cindy Stimmler Please join them in welcoming Cindy as she begins a new chapter of leadership at the Falls chamber office in the Baker Building on Washington Street in St. Croix Falls. – submitted by Falls chamber

ate 18 lakeshore lots and 20 more lots off the lake. The zoning change has already been approved by the county’s land use committee and town board members in Trade Lake. Approval by the full county board would make it final.

Some are hoping to make a last-ditch appeal to the county board Thursday, hoping supervisors would vote down or put the zoning approval on hold until other options can be weighed, even though supporters of the sale, including some members of the Wisconsin Conference of United Methodist Church, owners of the property, have said it’s too late in the process to reconsider.

Heather Holbrook of Shoreview, Minn., whose parents own a home across the lake from the former camp property, says she’s ready to invest $300,000 of her own money, along with another private donation of $100,000, to develop the property into a nonprofit camp to provide spiritual and other support for military families experiencing post-traumatic stress and/or families with those suffering from Asperger’s Syndrome.

“I have a son with Asperger’s Syndrome,” Holbrook said. “It’s really difficult to find a place to go as a family where everybody’s comfortable.”

Holbrook said she wrote to the Wisconsin Conference of United Methodist

Church last fall after hearing of the possible sale of Whispering Pines. She said they wrote back and said there already was an offer on the table to purchase the property.

“I was stunned as I had been watching for listing information, and had been told this spring by my parents, who live across from the camp on Spirit Lake, and attended the United Methodist Church in Frederic, that it would probably be two years before the camp was ready to be sold!” Holbrook noted.

Last Saturday an auction was held at the camp in bitterly cold weather, and furniture, appliances and dozens of canoe paddles went for bargain prices, according to one attendee.

The sale marked the final chapter of the youth camp, established over 50 years ago through a generous local donation of the property. Declining use caused it’s closure.

Thursday’s county board session begins at 9:30 a.m. in Room 162 of the government center north of Siren. - Gary King

Keep up with news about where you live.

Inter-County Leader

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

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Blizzard boys pass their Minnesota tests

Solid victory over Minneapolis West on Saturday, comefrom-behind win over Pine City Tuesday

Extra Points

Burnett Blizzard 3, Pine City/Rush City Dragons 2

by Greg Marsten SIREN – The Burnett Blizzard boys hockey team stepped up their play and staged a come-from-behind victory over their new conference rivals, the Pine City/Rush City Dragons, 3-2, Tues., Dec. 15, in the Siren Lodge Arena.

The Blizzard were actually trailing twice in the contest, and came back both times to score a tie before putting the game away, 3-2, with just over three minutes of regulation play left on the clock.

The game was extra special for coach Grant Nicoll and assistant Tim Samuelson, since they both used to play for the Dragons. Nicoll claimed it was “hard to sleep” prior to the game.

All in all, the game was fairly evenly matched. The Dragons outshot the Blizzard on goal, 35-28, but the final statistic that counts is the score, and the Blizzard boys made every shot count.

The Dragons got on the board first, at 14:02 in the first period. Forward Drew Gerold scored an even-handed goal with an assist by Jordan Pangerl.

It wasn’t until the 11:53 mark in the second period that the Blizzard got on the board. Forward Matt Larson got a goal past Dragons goalie Mitchell Ringness, with an assist by Joe Engelhart.

Burnett Blizzard freshman forward Kyle Roberts is seen here scoring the winning goal in Tuesday's contest with the Pine City/Rush City Dragons. The Blizzard won the game, 3-2. – Photos by Greg Marsten The play was pretty equal, and while there were some close power plays by both sides, it wasn’t until midway in the final period that either team scored again, and it was the Dragons who went on top. Jordan Pangerl slipped one past

Blizzard senior Steven Labatt battles with Rush City Dragon Nathan Wendof in Tuesday's contest in Siren. The Blizzard won, 3-2, and are now on top of the Two Rivers Conference.

the Blizzard netminder with an assist by Jeremiah Friday at 9:08, and the score was 2-1. The Blizzard responded in kind with a goal about a minute later, when Jamie Robb used another Engelhart helper to tie it up at 10:19.

With the game tied, it was a matter of who could be more aggressive, and the Blizzard won out. Freshman forward Kyle Roberts slipped one past Ringness for the go-ahead score, on an assist by Anthony Dietmeier, and the Blizzard had their 3-2 lead and it held.

With the win, the Blizzard sit firmly atop the Two Rivers Conference, and prepare for several tough conference games in the coming week, including against North Branch, and the Becker/Big Lake squad, which is coached by a relative of Nicoll’s and former Pine City graduate.

“The boys and coaches are very excited for what’s on tap in the coming week!” Nicoll said.

Burnett Blizzard 4, Minneapolis West 1 The Blizzard began their Two Rivers Conference schedule with a huge win Saturday, Dec. 12, in Grantsburg, stunning the combined Minneapolis West team, 4-1.

The Blizzard got out of the gates quick, scoring two goals in the first period, and then two more in the final period.

Scoring for the Blizzard were Joe Engelhart, who also added two assists, as well as Matt Larson, Russ Thoreen and Steven Labatt.

Tallying helpers were Matt Wood and Anthony Dietmeier. Goalkeeper Thomas Labatt tallied 48 saves on the night, allowing only one goal.

••• LEADER LAND – USA Hockey is announcing the 2010 U.S. Olympic Women’s Hockey Team at a ceremony being held in the Best Buy® Rotunda at the Mall of America® this Thursday, Dec. 17, at 4:30 p.m. Currently, 23 players, including Siren native Molly Engstrom, are part of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Molly Engstrom Only 21 will represent the United States at the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver, B.C. Feb. 12-28.

– from from www.usahockey.com ••• STEVENS POINT – Former Luck athlete Britta Peterson had her second double double of the season for UWStevens Points women’s basketball team on Friday, Dec. 11. Peterson scored 15 points and had 10 rebounds in the 79-51 win over Luther College, ending a two-game losing streak. – from www.uwsp.edu ••• LEADER LAND – The boys and girls Luck at Unity basketball games on Friday, Dec. 18, and the Shell Lake at Luck girls and boys basketball games on Tuesday, Dec. 22, can be heard on 104.9 FM beginning at 6 p.m., both nights.

••• LEADER LAND – The following games can be heard on 1260 AM. The Spooner at Amery hockey game on Thursday, Dec. 17, begins at 7 p.m.

The boys basketball Prescott at Amery game can be heard Friday, Dec. 18, beginning at 7:30 p.m., and the Tuesday, Dec. 22, North Branch, Minn., hockey game at Amery beginning at 7 p.m.

••• GREEN BAY – The Green Bay Packers at Pittsburgh Steelers game is being broadcast Sunday, Dec. 20, beginning at 3:15 p.m., on WXCX 105.7 FM. ••• MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Minnesota Vikings at Carolina Panthers game is being broadcast Sunday, Dec. 20, beginning at 7:15 p.m., on WLMX 104.9 FM. ••• MADISON – The UW-Milwaukee at Wisconsin Badgers basketball game on Wednesday, Dec. 23, can be heard on 1260 AM beginning at 8 p.m.

••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4:30 p.m. on Mondays to go in Extra Points. – Marty Seeger ••• LEADER LAND – Leader Sports strives to follow the college careers of area athletes. If you know of an athlete who will be playing collegiate sports in 2009 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail 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

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Eagles struggle on the mat against Cardinals Spring Valley/Elmwood 48, Unity 29

by Marty Seeger WEBSTER – “Not good at all” were the words Unity coach Mark Ferguson used to describe how the dual match went for his team last Thursday, Dec. 10, against Spring Valley/Elmwood. It was a tough night on the mat for the Eagle wrestlers, who were pinned five times out of the 10 total matches on the night.

“I would not be impressed with what you saw tonight. We’re too timid; we’ve got to see something and go after it.

Right now we’re waiting to see what happens and it’s not the way to go about a wrestling match,” Ferguson said.

Jared Peper was just the second match of the night but was able to put six points on the board for Unity with a pin over Steven VonHaden in 4:54 at 160 lbs. Alex Lennartson, 215 lbs., also put six points on the board for Unity with his pin over Trevor Woeltjen in just 46 seconds.

Unity’s Luke Nelson won with an 11-6 decision over Jon Newton at 135 lbs., and Dustin McKinney won by a 20-5 tech fall over Jaron Turner at 140 lbs. Dylan Hendricks also won his match over Brian Fesenmaier in a 3-1 decision at 145 lbs.

Despite the loss there were also four Unity forfeits, and the rest of the losses came to a pretty solid Spring Valley/Elmwood team.

“They’re a real solidly coached team,” Ferguson said, and noted that despite the youth on their roster, they’ve progressed significantly from last year.

Unity’s Luke Nelson won his match by an 11-6 decision last week.

Jared Peper of Unity was one of the few wrestlers to have a good match, with this pin over Steven VonHaden of Spring Valley/Elmwood at 160 lbs. – Photos by Marty Seeger “We’re having a slow start. Our dual meet schedule is really tough; Spring Valley is very good. We’ve got Glenwood City, they’re tough. Outside of our conference meets we’ve picked up some good nonconference matches,” Ferguson said. “We need competition to get better.

I’m a little frustrated tonight that we didn’t do as well as we should. It just means we’ve got to work a little harder. We just

have to realize we can’t just coast and win things.”

Flambeau 42, LFG 21 LUCK – The Luck/Frederic/ Grantsburg wrestling team lost to Flambeau at home in a dual meet last Thursday, that featured seven forfeits. Kerry Dahl at 215 lbs., earned a pin in just 40 seconds over Ryan Heavey. Brent John-

son also won his match at 130 lbs., in a 74 decision over Tyler Villalpando.

Luck’s Jordan Shearer, Devin Douglas, Evan Ryan and Ben Ackerley lost their respective matches.

“The kids wrestled well. Ben Ackerley at 140 lbs., had a heartbreaker,” said coach Chris Bartlett, adding that he was in complete control until a slight mistake cost him the match. “It was an entertaining match,” Bartlett said. Bartlett also mentioned that in the match Douglas wrestled, it was the third time this year he lost to Nate Lund by one point.

“It is early in the season and I am liking what the kids are doing,” Bartlett noted.

Saints perform well in first tournament Joe Raygor back out on the mat

by Marty Seeger WISCONSIN DELLS – St. Croix Falls was among 24 other teams during the Dells Duals Classic at Chula Vista Resort on Saturday, Dec. 12. Individually, the Saints posted a 35-28 record and matched up well in all five dual matches, losing four and winning one.

“The duals that we lost were all within 10 points and most of them came down to the last match,” said coach Dan Clark.

The Saints lost their first dual match of the day, 38-27, to MelroseMindoro. They were defeated by Spencer 42-26 in round two, by Verona 40-36 in round three, Spring Valley/Elmwood 40-30 in Joe Raygor round four and won 46-28 over Brookfield Central.

Joe Raygor wrestled his first matches of the season after a knee injury had him sidelined the entire football season and

into the early dual wrestling meets. In his first match at 189 pounds he defeated Devon Cline of Spencer. He pinned Cline in 54 seconds, and earned two more pins against Gary Filipp of Verona and Andy Bune of Spring Valley/Elmwood. He won a fourth match by a 7-3 decision over Jorey Dobbs of Melrose Mindora.

“It was good to see Joe wrestle and wrestle well,” Clark said.

Shaw Amundson had an outstanding day as well at 140 lbs., going 5-0. He had three pins on the day and defeated James Rogers of Spencer in a 2-1 decision.

“I believe our sophomores are coming

along very well and that will be a key for us to be where we want to be by the end of the year,” Clark said. “Two kids that really impressed me were two of the freshmen; James Klassen went 3-2 and is 7-3 on the year against Shaw Amundson some very tough competition and Ryan Johnson went 3-2 and is 6-4 on the year. We had a good weekend. Hopefully we will continue to improve.”

LFG, Unity wrestle at Barron Invite Dustin McKinney dominates at 140 lbs

by Marty Seeger BARRON – Both the Luck/Frederic/Grantsburg and the Eagles wrestling teams took part in the Barron Invitational last weekend, with Unity’s Dustin McKinney making it all the way to the top at 140 lbs. McKinney had a bye in the first round but defeated Zach Peissig of Dustin McKinney Abbotsford/Colby by 17-5 major decision. He pinned Ben Ackerley of LFG in the semifinals and defeated James Shafer of Clear Lake by tech fall 18-3. As a team the Eagles placed eighth overall with 95.5 points, out of 16 teams.

Luke Nelson at 130 lbs., and Jared Peper, at 160 lbs., each took third place at the tournament. Josh Eaton was the only other Eagle to place at the tournament.

He received fourth overall at 285 lbs.,

Ben Ackerley of Frederic wrestles Unity’s Dustin Mckinney in Barron last Saturday. – Photo by Becky Amundson and had two pins on the day. The Eagles the Barron Invite last weekend, as five of next contest won’t be until Tuesday, Dec. his wrestlers placed. Evan Ryan had a 29, during the Northern Badger Tourna- big tournament win with a 6-4 victory ment hosted in River Falls. over Justin Chillman of Northwestern.

Chillman was the No. 1 wrestler heading LFG at Barron into the quarterfinals. Ryan placed sixth BARRON – Coach Chris Bartlett was overall. pleased with how his team wrestled at “Getting a couple of wins at this meet

is a good day for a freshman in his first year,” Bartlett said.

The best place on the day went to Austin Eskola, who took third overall.

He only had one loss to Glenwood City’s Adam Holmquist. Eskola later defeated Holmquist for third.

“Austin at 125 was in the hardest weight class of the day. There were four wrestlers undefeated and one with one loss,” said Bartlett.

Ben Ackerley took fourth place at 140 lbs. “Ran into the buzz saw called McKinney in the semis,” Bartlett said. “It was another tough weight class.”

Ray Kurkowski also finished fourth on the day. He had one pin and one major decision win. Joe Christensen did not place at the tournament, but received his first pin as a freshman over Mike Starck of Stanley-Boyd in 1:20. Kerry Dahl, at 189 lbs., aggravated an injury and will be out four to eight weeks, according to Bartlett.

Lakeysha Schallenberger received a consolation finish with a pin over Tyler Daniels of Badger High School. The Cardinals placed 11th out of 16 teams in Barron with 74 total points.

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Blizzard girls go on a scoring run over Tomahawk practice to achieve some of the things they did so well against the Tomahawk squad Saturday.

“We will have to work very hard in practice this week to prepare for a good Menomonie team,” he said.

Of course, the Blizzard have some real weapons to use, and a little lopsided home win might be just the boost they need.

The next game for the Blizzard girls is at noon this Saturday, Dec. 19, at Menomonie.

Blizzard turn up the heat in home win Blizzard 12, Tomahawk 4

by Greg Marsten SIREN – There’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned crushing victory to get your team pumped up for a road trip, and Burnett Blizzard girls coach Tim Bennett is pretty sure that Saturday’s 124 win at home in Siren is just what the doctor ordered.

“The girls just completely took control of the game,” Bennett said. “We were more skilled and had greater depth than the Tomahawk squad.”

The Blizzard girls scored early and often, and made sure that the puck was passed around with aplomb and that everyone had a chance at the net, leading 8-0 at the end of the first period.

“Everyone had playing time in this game and the scoring was done by all four lines,” Bennett said, adding that Kelsey Lien, Brittani Hopkins and Tanesha Carlson all had their first goals of the season. “We worked on different things throughout the game: passing, counter attacks and taking shots from the defensive point.”

Lady Blizzard’s Krysta Laqua fights with a Tomahawk player during their game Saturday, Dec. 12. – Photos by Marty Seeger Bennett’s squad has a tough road trip and some very difficult opponents ahead, and flexing a little muscle might be just the kind of confidence building

his squad needs to excel in the coming weeks. The next five games for the Blizzard will be “very tough,“ he said. He stressed the importance of hard work in

Cody Crawford makes a shot on goal against Tomahawk.

Ten too many for Saints boys

The Panthers opened the game wide in the third quarter, when Kyle Cress hit five 3-pointers. The Saints didn’t give up and cut a 17-point deficit to just 10 points going into the fourth quarter.

Kyle Christensen led the Saints with 15 points, Austin Whittenberger had 14 and Gus Koecher added 10. Cory Gebhard had six points.

Still looking for first win of the season

St. Croix Central 76, St. Croix Falls 57

by Marty Seeger ST. CROIX FALLS – From the start, it was shaping up to be a great nonconference battle between the St. Croix Central and St. Croix Falls basketball teams. In the end, however, the Panthers capitalized on 10 3-pointers, which helped put the Saints away for good Tuesday night, Dec. 15, in St. Croix Falls.

The teams went back and forth in the first quarter, but St. Croix Central held a two-point edge heading into the second quarter. Despite pulling away to as much as nine points the Saints bit back to eventually take a 22-21 lead, but lost that lead and trailed 35-27 at the half.

Northwood 54, Siren 46 MINONG – The Dragons dropped a nonconference game to Northwood on Tuesday, Dec. 15. Game stats were unavailable at press time.

LEFT: St. Croix Falls forward Austin Whittenberger drew a foul on this play against the St. Croix Central Panthers on Tuesday, Dec. 15, in the Saints gym. – Photo by Marty Seeger

Viking girls crush Solon Springs and Kendra Wells added 10. Both Jade Johnson and Sam Nelson had eight points.

St. Croix Falls 63, Birchwood 33 ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints girls basketball team grabbed their second win of the season at home against Birchwood on Tuesday, Dec. 15. Marissa Campeau had a double double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, and Sarah Petznick had 14 points, three steals and two blocks. Caitlyn Olson added eight points to the mix, as well as Sydney Geisness, who had six boards.

The Saints led 12-3 after the first quarter and maintained their lead at the half.

Heading into the fourth quarter, the Saints led 47-26.

Saints win, Cardinals fall

Frederic 69, Solon Springs 10

by Marty Seeger SOLON SPRINGS – Frederic pulled out a lopsided win in a makeup game against Solon Springs on Tuesday, Dec. 15, keeping their perfect 4-0 record intact.

Their next game is this Thursday, Dec. 17, against Rush City, Minn., and next conference game is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 8.

On Tuesday the Vikings jumped out to a 23-2 lead after the first quarter and didn’t look back. Frederic didn’t allow Solon Springs a single basket in the fourth quarter, and every Viking contributed to the win.

“Girls did a good job of playing to our level,” said coach Troy Wink.

Sage Karl led the Vikings with a solid effort defensively and had 14 points offensively. Chrissy Chenal had 11 points

Frederic’s Chrissy Chenal grabs a loose ball in an earlier game. – File photo by Marty Seeger

Turtle Lake 48, Luck 45 LUCK – The Cardinals fell to undefeated Turtle Lake on Tuesday, Dec. 15, in a nonconference game, giving Luck a 2-4 record on the year.

“We got good shots, but didn’t put enough in the basket to win,” said coach

Marty Messar.

Aleah Lemiex had a double double with a team-leading 14 points and 13 rebounds. Taryn Pilz added 10 points, Bailee Swenson had nine points and Morgan Denny had seven. Avery Steen contributed five points as well. The Lakers led 26-20 at the half, but Luck held them to 11 points in the third quarter and trailed by two heading into the final quarter, but the Lakers prevailed.

Rush City, Minn., 58, Grantsburg 42 GRANTSBURG – The Pirate girls lost at home against Rush City on Tuesday, Dec. 15, after falling behind by 12 points after the first quarter, and at the half. The Tigers outscored the Pirates 18-13 in the fourth quarter, and had two girls with 16 and 18 points for the win.

Kortney Morrin led the Pirates with 15 points, Haley Larson had 12, Liz Gaffney had seven, and Carly Larson added four points.

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Vikes cruise over Grantsburg

Open first conference game with win Frederic 67, Grantsburg 52

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC – The Viking girls basketball team opened the conference season with a nice win over Grantsburg last Friday night at home.

“It was more complete than we had the first two games,” said coach Troy Wink after the game.

Both teams fought hard in the first quarter, going back and forth the entire time, and hitting big shots in the process.

Pirates junior Haley Larson hit two big 3-pointers and scored 10 points in the first quarter. But Frederic’s Chrissy Chenal and Kendra Wells scored eight and seven respectively. With a 19-16 lead heading into the second quarter, Vikings junior Jade Johnson converted a couple of big turnovers and scored a pair of buckets early to give the Vikes a 23-17 lead. Johnson would end up scoring a total of 23 points in the game and Wells

Grantsburg’s Kortney Morrin races Frederic’s Sam Nelson for a runaway ball during the Vikings versus Pirates game on Friday, Dec. 11. – Photo by Marty Seeger added 16 points of her own. Chenal scored a total of 10 points in the game.

Frederic led 33-19 at the half, and

started to pull away quickly in the third – something the Vikings haven’t been able to do all season. Defensively, they

held the Pirates to three points in the quarter.

“I just thought we played a lot better in the third and maintained, and then built that lead up into the 20s,” Wink said.

The Vikings were also able to stop some pretty intense pressure from the Pirates defense, as well as break the press better than they have all season long.

“We did a better job with the press, and the first game against Bruce, they pressed us and we struggled with it.

We’ve been working on that ever since and kinda handled it a little better now,” Wink said.

There’s still plenty the Vikings would like to work on this early in the season.

Wink thought the team had too many fouls. Still, not a bad way to start for the Vikings this season.

“I was pleased with our effort. I thought our girls fought hard, played hard and played well,” Wink said.

The Pirates had three girls in the double digits scoring, including Larson’s 16, Sam Schwieger’s 15 and Kortney Morrin’s 12 points.

Webster boys hold back Luck

“Just plain outplayed,” says Luck coach Webster 44, Luck 35

by Greg Marsten WEBSTER – The Webster Tiger boys basketball team used a steady, ruthless, multiplayer attack to wear down the Luck Cardinals at Webster on Friday, holding off a late-game rally and securing a solid victory, 44-35.

“It’s all about the team,” Webster head coach Randy Hedrick said after the win, noting that he used his whole bench to keep fresh legs on the court.

Luck came off the block slow, scoring just four points in the first quarter, trailing the entire game. Webster spread the ball around well, using patience and passing to keep the Cardinal defense slightly off step.

“They were more patient on offense,” Luck coach Rick Giller confirmed.

The game was starting to be closer as

Webster junior James Wethern (4) slides past Luck junior Cole Mortel on his way to the paint in Friday's game in Webster. The Tigers came out victorious, 44-35. – Photo by Greg Marsten

the half approached, with the Tigers leading, 15-12, going into the break.

In the third period, Webster got back in their groove, tallying 12 points from four separate players. The Cardinals had a hard time at the free-throw line, and it began to add up in the final quarter, when Webster used the bonus to send them to the line and scored most of their final quarter tallies at the charity stripe.

The Tigers shot 15 of 24 free throws, compared to 5 of 16 shooting for the Cardinals.

The Cardinals used a pair of long balls from Carson Giller and Cole Mortel to get within a few points near the end, but the bonus again came to light, and the fouls just kept coming.

“They just plain outplayed us,” Giller confirmed after the game.

High scorers for Luck were Cole Mortel with 18 points, followed by brother Alec Mortel with five points.

Webster’s Austin Elliot rolled up 16 points for the Tigers, followed by 11 points from Shane Rossow and eight points for Nolan Kriegel.

Cardinal girls double up on Tigers Luck girls play 32 solid minutes in victory Luck 56, Webster 27

by Greg Marsten WEBSTER – The Luck Cardinal girls basketball squad got on track and turned up the steam against the Webster Tigers Friday, Dec. 11, in Webster, averaging 14 points per quarter in their victory, and using a steady defense to hold the Tigers in check, more than doubling up on their hosts, 56-27, for a big victory.

“It was our best overall performance of the year,” stated Luck head coach Marty Messar. “We played very well on the defensive end and were very unselfish on offense.”

The Cardinal girls were off to a fast start, outscoring the Tigers 16-8 in the first quarter, and never looked back.

Luck seemed to own the boards, forcing the Webster offense to make every shot count, and testing the Tiger rebounding

Luck senior Taryn Pilz shoots an outlet pass to another Cardinal in Friday's victory over the Webster Tigers. Pilz ended the night with a double double. – Photo by Greg Marsten at every corner.

Webster made some quick action happen with a volley of downtown 3-pointers from Michelle Gibbs, who ended the night with 16 points, nine of them from

outside the arc. But other than Gibbs, no Tigers scored over four points.

Balanced scoring was the rule for the Cardinals, and it was a way to keep the Webster defense on the catch-up, and

seemingly always one step behind the Luck girls.

“That was another real plus,” Messar stated. “We had four players in double figures.”

Luck had solid offensive performances from a number of players, and those four players with double figures included Morgan Denny with 14 points, followed

by Aleah Lemieux’s 13 points and 12 points from Avery Steen, which included a pair of 3-pointers. Taryn Pilz added 11 points to the Luck total.

Messar noted that both Pilz and Denny finished the night with 11 rebounds each, giving them both double doubles on the night.

Webster tried to stay within reach in the second quarter, but the spread of the Luck offense kept the score in the Cardinals favor all night. They were consistent in their scoring, as well, putting 12 points on the board in the second quarter, and then doing it again in the third quarter.

Luck stretched the lead out even further in the final quarter, scoring 16 points and never looking back.

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Pirates sail, remain undefeated

shot 8 for 11 from the free-throw line.

Austin Whittenberger added 11 points with 11 boards.

St. Croix was down by five points at the half, and just two points heading into the fourth quarter. Breck pulled away however, outscoring the Saints 19-10 in the final quarter to finish out the night.

Vikings scrappy effort falls short Grantsburg 60, Frederic 45

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC – The Pirates played tough against the Vikings last Friday night, Dec. 11, but couldn’t quite shake the Frederic persistence until the third quarter.

“Frederic is a scrappy team and takes advantage of how the ball bounces,” said Pirates coach Nick Hallberg, who has his players out to an undefeated 4-0 start.

Two of those wins are conference wins, with their last one coming in a big way against the Saints.

In their first conference battle of the season, the Vikes kept pace with the Pirates courtesy of an early three from Will Primm and a pair of buckets from Joe Draxler. The Vikings trailed by four after the first quarter, but lost an edge midway through the second quarter as the Pirates jumped out to 17-point lead.

Brent Myers led the Pirates with seven points in the second quarter, while Trevor Thompson and Seth Coy had two apiece. Derek Bertelsen went 3 for 4 from the line in the quarter too, but Frederic closed in. Trae Gehl hit a 3-pointer and Draxler drained a 3-pointer as the buzzer signaled the end of the first half, with the Pirates leading 33-22.

Tony Peterson and Primm hit two easy buckets at the start of the third quarter, forcing the Pirates to take a time-out.

Thompson hit a big 3-pointer for the Pirates, but Draxler answered back and suddenly the Vikings trailed by just seven points.

“We did some things well, but the guys know we can play better,” Hallberg said.

Thompson’s seven points in the third quarter helped the Pirates gradually pull away with the substantial lead, that ended with a 47-29 lead going into the

Luck’s Carson Giller goes to guard the Ellsworth point guard on Saturday, Dec. 12. – Photo submitted

Grantsburg’s Daniel Biorn goes up for a shot during the Pirates victory over Frederic. – Photo by Marty Seeger fourth quarter, and the eventual win.

Thompson led the Pirates with 22 points and Bertelsen and Myers each had 15. Draxler led the Vikings with 12 points and Waylon Buck and Primm each added 10.

The Pirates play their next game at home against Webster this Friday, Dec. 18, at 7:30 p.m. Frederic hosts Clear Lake in nonconference action this Thursday, Dec. 17, at 7:30 p.m.

Luck 54, Ellsworth 43 ELLSWORTH – The Cardinal boys pulled out a nice nonconference win at Ellsworth last Saturday, Dec. 12, after a

well-balanced scoring effort and being a little worn out.

“Playing back-to-back games is not easy. Though we were fatigued we played a good game,” said coach Rick Giller.

Luck was coming off their second loss of the season at Webster the night before, but overcame a five-point deficit after the first quarter, holding the Panthers to five in the second. The Cards played well overall.

“We were more patient on offense and the team stepped it up defensively in the fourth quarter, not letting Ellsworth get many good looks at the basket,” Giller noted.

The Cards shot well from the freethrow line, shooting 15 of 20, and were led by Cole Mortel’s 20 points. They also had good shooting from Carson Giller with 14 and Alec Mortel with eight points.

“Logan Hacker picked up a little scoring, not missing a field goal or free throw and helping our balanced scoring with nine,” Giller said. Luck travels to Unity this Friday, Dec. 18, with a game start set for 7:30 p.m.

Breck 57, St. Croix Falls 46 ST. CROIX FALLS – The Saints boys lost at home against Breck last Friday, Dec. 11. Kyle Christensen had 18 points and six rebounds to lead the Saints, and

Unity 55, Siren 37 SIREN – The Unity Eagles boys basketball team is a force to be reckoned with this year, and they proved that Friday, Dec. 11, on the road at Siren, where they toppled the hosting Dragons by a 55-37 final score.

The Dragons jumped in front of the Eagles early, thanks to some long ball shooting by Murdock Smith, who buried a pair of downtown shots early on to give Siren some early confidence. Smith ended the night with 13 points, and gives Siren another powerful weapon to use form all parts of the court.

But then the Eagle squad rallied and took control in the second quarter, thanks to some spread out offense and a reinvigorated Brady Flaherty, who led all scorers with 21 points. The Eagles used that solid second quarter to build a lead and then stretch it out, going up 25-18 at the half.

The second half ended up being a wash, as both teams scored 12 points, making it hard for Siren to recover from that strong second quarter. Seven of Unity’s notches came from big man Tyler Bublitz, who finished with 13 points.

Unity began to shine in the final quarter, outscoring the Dragons 18 to 6, and never looking back, finishing on top, 5537.

“I thought we played much better defense than we had the first two games,” said Unity head coach Shaun Fisher.

“Our intensity was much improved. We need to continue to play tough defense if we want to compete in our upcoming games.” – Greg Marsten

Dragons hold off the Eagles Fast start and the long ball keep Siren ahead of Unity Siren 55, Unity 35

by Greg Marsten SIREN – The Siren Dragons used six 3pointers from four different players to keep the hungry Unity Eagles at bay Friday at Siren, winning 55-35, but showing that the Eagles are a force to contend with this year, and proving that the Dragons have many weapons pointed at them this year.

Siren used a dragstrip-fast start to open the contest, rallying for 18 points in the opening quarter, thanks to nine points from Carley Emery.

“I really thought we came out with a purpose and looked focused in the first quarter,” said Siren head coach Ryan Karsten.

Unity had a hard time getting out of the gate, stuttering a spell and tallying just four points in that same quarter, and as Unity head coach Chuck Holicky noted, a lapse of ball handling gave the Dragons an 8-0 run to establish a lead and never look back.

Unity was at near-full strength with the return of Crystal Donahue, who added a steady 10 points to the cause, including 2 for 2 at the free-throw line.

“It was good to get Crystal back and

have her available,” Holicky confirmed.

Siren is coming off a state appearance in Madison this spring, and has shown several times that they are just as capable as any team of being beat. While the Dragons are a good team all-around, they showed an unusual amount of turnovers against the Eagles, which Holicky was quick to point out. “Defensively, we played well,” he said. “We forced them into 20 turnovers in the first three quarters, and 33 for the game.”

But the offensive attack of Carley Emery, Ashley Guevara and Jamie Fischbach is tough to top, as the trio tallied 38 points combined, most of those points coming in the first half.

“The bench played a bunch in the second half, which included five points from Daphne Hubbell, Tasha Kosloski and two from Abigail Mitchell,” Karsten said.

No doubt the Dragons will have marks on their backs all season long, and after a tough loss the Tuesday prior to Northwestern, Karsten was happy to see his team get back on track: “I was really happy with the way my girls responded to their first loss of the year.”

While Siren has lots of weapons, Unity has the element of surprise and several quality freshmen to look forward to all season. In fact, those freshmen scored 10 of the Eagles final 14 points.

“We are moving in the right direction,” Holicky said confidently. “We need to continue to improve.”

Prentice 46, Siren 45 PRENTICE – The Siren Dragons girls basketball team took to the road for the first time all season on Saturday, Dec. 12, for a true test of their depth. They went up against the No. 3 ranked, Div. 4 Prentice Buccaneers, who spent most of last year ranked in the top spot or very near it.

“They had four of their five starters back,” Siren head coach Ryan Karsten said.

It was looking like the state tournament all over again, Karsten said. Prentice went on a huge, unmatched, 13-0 run to start the first quarter, and ended up leading the Dragons, 17-1.

But then things started to turn, and turn fast. In spite of foul trouble for some of their big players, the Dragons cut that lead down to 24-26 at the half.

“The upswing continued in the third quarter,” Karsten said, noting his squad’s 12-0 run to start the third quarter, giving them the lead for a spell, and holding on to it as the final quarter began.

Freshman Raven Emery buried an important 3-pointer to start the final quarter, and with that, came solid performances from starters Ashley Guevara and Carley Emery, who knocked down six and eight points, respectively.

“The fourth quarter was really quality basketball,” Karsten said. “The game came down to the last possession.”

Siren had the ball twice in the final half-minute, trailing by just a point, but

Siren’s Ashley Guevara takes a shot during the Dragon’s one-point loss to Prentice. – Photo submitted turnovers haunted them and they ended up losing the seesaw match, 46-45.

“You never want to dig yourself in a hole of 16 points,” Karsten said. “But I give the girls a lot of credit for coming back and getting the lead and having a chance to win ... that’s all I can ask of my team.”

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

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Gymnasts compete in first meets Grantsburg at Superior, St. Croix Falls/Unity at Chippewa Falls

by Brenda Sommerfeld SUPERIOR – The Grantsburg gymnasts competed against Superior and Rice Lake during their first meet of the season on Friday, Dec. 11, in Superior.

The Pirate team took second place on bars and beam with total scores of 26.80 and 27.70, respectively.

“It is always nice to get the first meet out of the way,” coach Kathy Lund said.

“We had way too many falls on beam and we missed a few requirements on the bars, but we now have this meet under us.”

A R E A Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Night No Tap I Mixed Standings: Jeff’s Team 17, Late Comers 17, Long Shots 16.5, Packer Backers 15, Chuck’s Team 14.5, Knaubers 14.5, Happy Campers 9, No Names 8.5.

Women’s games: Debbie Swanson (PB) & Yvonne Snyder (HC) 216, Debbie Swanson (PB) 214, Wendy Knauber (K) & Gwen Larsen (HC) 211.

Women’s series: Debbie Swanson (PB) 630, Jan Kruse (CT) 586, Cindy Denn (LS) 563.

Men’s games: Chuck Kruse (CT) 300, Gene Hanson (JT) and Len Knauber (K) 276, Chuck Kruse (CT) 266.

Men’s series: Chuck Kruse (CT) 827, Len Kanuber (K) 718, Don Swanson (PB) 684.

Team games: Jeff’s Team 836, Packer Backers 822, Chuck’s Team 805.

Team series: Jeff’s Team 2336, Packer Backers 2328, Chuck’s Team 2266.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: House of Wood 63, Hacker’s Lanes 53, The Bottle Shop 49, AnchorBank 44, Mane Attractions 44, Chicks 41.

Women’s games: Rhonda Bazey (HW) 220, Robin Lindvall (BS) 202, Jennifer Renfroe (C) 199.

Women’s series: Robin Lindvall (BS) 575, Jennifer Renfroe (C) 546, Kathy Java (HL) 521.

Team games: House of Wood 657, The Bottle Shop 617, Chicks 588.

Team series: The Bottle Shop 1805, House of Wood 1713, Chicks 1694.

Men’s Tuesday Classic Standings: Great Northern Outdoors 104, Hacker’s Lanes 101, Bottle Shop 91, Yellow Lake Lodge 88, Pioneer Bar 67, Olsen & Son 56.

Individual games: Tom Coen (GNO) 286, Ron Skow (GNO) 279, Ed Bitler (GNO), Ken Tonsager (HL) and Roger Tollander (YLL) 257.

Individual series: Ron Skow (GNO) 716, Ed Bitler (GNO) 705, Tom Coen (GNO) 698.

Team games: Great Northern Outdoors 744, Hacker’s Lanes 717, Yellow Lake Lodge 678.

Team series: Great Northern Outdoors 2119, Hacker’s Lanes 1963, Yellow Lake Lodge 1874.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Tom Coen 10x = 286; Ron Skow 9x = 279; Ken Tonsager 6x = 257; Roger Tollander 6x = 257; Ed Bitler 5x = 257.

Games 50 or more above average: Tom Coen 286 (+101); Ron Skow 279 (+79); Roger Tollander 257 (+66).

Series 100 pins or more above average: Tom Coen 698 (+143); Ed Bitler 705 (+123); Ron Skow 716 (+116).

Splits converted: 3-10: Tom Coen. 3-4-710: Brett Daeffler.

Wednesday Night Early Men’s Standings: 4 Seasons Wood Products 33.5, Skol Bar 33, Cummings Lumber 32, Pioneer Bar 31, A-1 Machine 30, Larsen Auto Center 24.5, Lewis Silo 23, Bye 1.

Individual games: Jim Murphy (CS) 247, Gene Ackland (4S) 236, Buck Hanson (PB) 234.

Individual series: Bryce Daeffler (LA) 629, Gene Ackland (4S) 621, Dave Romanowski (PB) 615.

Team games: 4 Seasons Wood Products 1016, Pioneer Bar 1000, Cummings Lumber 975.

It was tough competition for Grantsburg against two Division 1 schools.

Michelle Lund and Emily Cole were the only two to place in the top three spots on any of the events. Lund took third on the bars with a score of 7.70 and Cole received second on beam with an 8.00 score.

“Emily Cole was our only gymnast that had a no fall on the beam,” Lund commented.

Cole also competed on bars with a score of 6.55, while Lund did routines on all four events as an all-around gymnast for the Pirates. Lund may have only placed in one individual event but she took second place in the all-around with a score of 30.10. She scored in the sevens in each event, 7.90 on vault, 7.50 on beam and 7.00 on floor.

Nikki Ticknor and Jessika Ilgen also completed a routine on each of the four events. Ticknor scored an all-round of

25.55 and Ilgen 26.70. Ticknor and Ilgen scored best on vault, Ticknor with a 7.30 and Ilgen a 7.70. Ticknor’s other scores were 5.90 on bars, 6.05 on beam and 6.30 on floor and Ilgen’s others were 6.65 on bars, 6.15 on beam and 6.20 on floor.

“I thought the girls looked pretty good on vaulting, but no one scored in the eights,” Lund stated. “Overall I was a little baffled on the scoring of this meet. It will just push us to make better connections and to work harder.”

Breanna Fickbohm and Ruth Ann Pederson were the other Pirates to compete on vault. Fickbohm scored a 7.25 and Pederson 6.60. Fickbohm also performed a bars routine scoring a 3.90 and Pederson completed beam and floor routines with scores of 4.60 and 6.10, respectively.

Jenna Barenz performed a floor routine for the Grantsburg team, finishing with a score of 5.75.

B O W L I N G Team series: 4 Seasons Wood Products 2796, A-1 Machine 2764, Pioneer Bar 2734.

Thursday Early Standings: Full Timers 53, K-Wood 46.5, Daeffler’s Quality Meats 46, Fab Four 34.5, Grindell Law Offices 34.5, Frontier Trails 33.5, Wikstrom Construction 32.5, Hell Raisers 31.5.

Individual games: (Handicap scores) Gilbert Meyer (KW) 292, Nick Skow (DQM) 279, Ed Bitler (KW) 277.

Individual series: (Handicap scores) Ed Bitler (KW) 744, Gilbert Meyer (KW) 709, Jim Wikstrom (WC) 703.

Team games: (Handicap scores) KWood 807, Daeffler’s Quality Meats 699, Fab Four 674.

Team series: (Handicap scores) KWood 2114, Full Timers 1979, Daeffler’s Quality Meats 1940.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Gilbert Meyer 5x (245); Ed Bitler 7x (268).

Games 50 pins or more above average: Ed Bitler 268 (+68); Don McKinney 247 (+55); Gilbert Meyer 245 (+88); Nick Skow 238 (+74).

Series 100 pins or more above average: Ed Bitler 717 (+117).

Others: Commendation: Dave Grindell (4 Pin).

Splits converted: 3-10: Gilbert Meyer, Laryn Larson. 4-5: Simon Nelson. 4-5-7: Jason Pearson. 5-7: Jim Wikstrom, Simon Nelson.

Thursday Late Mixed Standings: Hansen Farms Inc. 31.5, Stotz & Company 29.5, Rural American Bank 26.5, Johnson Upholstery 25.5, North Wind Arts 22, Fisk Trucking 21, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 19.

Women’s games: Kelsey Bazey 202, Rita Frandsen 180, Amy Goalen 168.

Women’s series: Kelsey Bazey 560, Rita Frandsen 485, Amy Goalen 413.

Men’s series: Oliver Baillargeon 246, Dale Frandsen 218, TJ Goalen IV 214.

Men’s games: Oliver Baillargeon 712, Kenneth Hackett 589, Mark Bohn 585.

Team games: Stotz & Company 919, Rural American Bank 906, Hansen Farms Inc. 892.

Team series: Rural American Bank 2647, Hansen Farms Inc. 2589, Stotz & Company 2550.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: The Leader 66, The Pin Heads 56, Frederic Design & Promotion 54, Pioneer Bar 53, Hole in the Wall 50, Junque Art 43, The Dozers 40.5, Meyers Plus 29.5.

Individual games: Karen Carlson 224, Ruth Taylor 183, Pat Bresina 180.

Individual series: Karen Carlson 612, Kathy Sandberg 512, Paula Denn 476.

Team games: Junque Art 651, The Pin Heads 614, Frederic Design & Promotion 593.

Team series: Junque Art 1869, The Pin Heads 1726, The Leader 1680.

Games 50 or more above average: Pat Bresina.

Saturday Youth (3 games) Standings: ???? 27, Earth Energy 25, The Unknowns 22, Favre Rules 21.5, Lucky Cards 19.5. L4D 17.

Girls games: Corissa Schmidt 175, 169 and 161.

Girls series: Corissa Schmidt 505, Jayme Mitchell 416, Lauren Domagala 372.

Boys games: Logan Hacker 290, Christian Hall 235, A.J. Walsh Brenizer 202.

Boys series: Logan Hacker 640, Christian Hall 600, Roger Steen 506.

Team games: Favre Rules 736, The Unknowns 628, Earth Energy 603.

Team series: Favre Rules 1856, The Unknowns 1763, Earth Energy 1652.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Frederic Truck & Tractor 34.5, Bogus Pumpkins 33, Milltown Appliance 29.5, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 28, Sam’s Carpentry 28, McKenzie Lanes 19.5, Edina Diva 17, Metal Products 14.5.

Individual games: Mary Sue Morris 225, Amber Duncan 203, Sue Heiderscheidt 198.

Individual series: Mary Sue Morris 551, Luann White 508, Shirley Wilson 507.

Team games: (Handicap score) Milltown Appliance 864.

Team series: (Handicap score) Milltown Appliance 2447.

Monday Night Madness Standings: Scottay’s Trucking 60, Balsam Lake Market 57, Triple Threat 52, Radio Shack 52, Mishaps 47, Pepie’s Gals 43, Alleycats 39, McKenzie Lanes 34.

Individual games: Debbie Swanson 191, Julia Delougherty 182, Heidi Carey 181.

Individual series: Heidi Carey 495, Debbie Swanson 489, Julia Delougherty 458.

Team games: (Handicap score) Balsam Lake Market 658, Scottay’s Trucking 649, Alleycats 607.

Team series: (Handicap score) Scottay’s Trucking 1782, Balsam Lake Market 1777, Radio Shack 1684.

Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: Wild Boys 51, Lane Crashers 41.5, Lamar Stars 36, Jim’s Flooring 33.5, Lemon Heads 27, Mom’s Boys 21.

Women’s games: Brenda Lehmann 170, Vicki Minnick 161, Janice Berg 153.

Women’s series: Brenda Lehmann 453, Vicki Minnick 424, Janice Berg 402.

Men’s games: Tim Lehner 267, Zach Gurtner 221, Cory Crowell 211.

Men’s series: Tim Lehner 594, Cory Crowell 588, Zach Gurtner 575.

Team games: Wild Boys 630.

Team series: Wild Boys 1532.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 64, McKenzie Lanes 61.5, Glass Bar 58, Centurview Park 53.5, Dream Lawn 45.5, Hack’s Pub 44, The Dugout 38, Steve’s Appliance 35.5.

Individual games: Darren McKenzie 239, Rick Fox 238, Roy Price 236.

Individual series: Craig Willert and Darren McKenzie 669, Mike Hill 659, Gene Braund 626.

St. Croix Falls/Unity team The St. Croix Falls/Unity gymnastics team started their season with a meet in Chippewa Falls on Saturday, Dec. 12.

The team scored 104.

“This is about eight points less then we ended the season with last year,” coach Dawn Peer explained. “Our team is hurting a little from all the injuries on some of our key players. Hopefully as we get back from the Christmas break we will have our team healthy and ready for competitions.”

Ashley Johnson competed all-around and scored an 8.1 on vault and finished her bar routine with a 6.9.

Kady Meyer had a no-fall beam routine, scoring 7.825. She also received an 8.05 on her vault.

Melissa Larson took a 7.05 on beam and a 7.80 on her vault routine.

R E S U L T S Team games: (Handicap score) Hack’s Pub 1278.

Team series: (Handicap score) Hack’s Pub 3562.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 30, Harvest Moon 22, Davy’s Construction 21, Edina Realty 20, Reed’s Marina 20, Dalles Electrical 18, Hanjo Farms 17, McKenzie Lanes 12.

Individual games: Darren McKenzie 265, Dick Wallis 258, Craig Willert 255.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 704, Jim McKenzie 690, Craig Willert 682.

Team games: (Handicap score) Davy’s Construction 1052, Hanjo Farms 1023.

Team series: (Handicap score) Davy’s Construction 2964, Tiger Express 2908.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Cutting Edge Pro 71, Eagle Valley Bank 54, Hack’s Pub 52.5, KJ’s 51.5, Bont Chiropractic 47, RiverBank 46, Hauge Dental 39.5, Truhlsen Chiropractic 38.5.

Individual games: MJO Hacker 223, Lois Hermanson 213, Shannon Cox 205.

Individual series: MJO Hacker 556, Shannon Cox 533, Carrie Schultz 531.

Team games: Hauge Dental 819, Hack’s Pub 785, Cutting Edge Pro 732.

Team series: Hauge Dental 2286, Hack’s Pub 2249, Cutting Edge Pro 2148.

Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Pin Busters 67, Roller Coasters 65.5, The In-Laws 60, Eureka Bombers 60, Ten Pin Titans 59, Tiger Express 58, Happy Campers 57, Fisk Trucking 49.5.

Women’s games: Janelle Johnson 182, Sharon Berg 180, Brenda Lehmann 173.

Women’s series: Brenda Lehmann 508, Janelle Johnson 494, Diane Fisk 462.

Men’s series: Bill Berg 235, Tim Katzmark 211, Gary Warner 208.

Men’s games: Gordy Johnson 581, Bill Berg 581, Gary Warner 567.

Team games (Handicapped score): Tiger Express 905, The In-Laws 876, Roller Coasters 849.

Team series (Handicapped score): Tiger Express 2594, Roller Coasters 2499, The In-Laws 2470.

Black & Orange

Early Birds Standings: Log Cabin Store 4-0, 10th Hole 3-1, Black & Orange 1-3, Gandy Dancer Saloon 0-4.

Individual games: Marcy Viebrok (B&O) 213, Sandy Price (LCS) 185, Cris Damman (GD) 179.

Individual series: Marcy Viebrock (B&O) 512, Michelle Lysdahl (10th) 443, Kay Casey (10th) 437.

Team games: 10th Hole 883, Black & Orange 843, Log Cabin Store 834.

Team series: 10th Hole 2509, Log Cabin Store 2395, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2303.

Games 50 or more above average: Sandy Price 185 (+60); Marcy Viebrock 213 (+63).

Monday Night Men’s (End of First Half) Standings: Glass & Mirror Works 28-20, Pope’s Construction 24-24, Larry’s LP 2325, Black & Orange 21-27.

Individual games: Dean Eytcheson (GMW) 202, Arnie Pope (PC) 197, Richard Morse (GMW) 195.

Individual series: Dean Eytcheson (GMW) 591, Arnie Pope (PC) 551, Josh

Johnson (L) 543.

Team games: Glass & Mirror Works 937, Larry’s LP 931, Pope’s Construction 916.

Team series: Glass & Mirror Works 2746, Pope’s Construction 2707, Larry’s LP 2678.

Series 100 or more above average: Josh Johnson 543 (+114).

TNT Standings: Flower Power 35-19, Larry’s LP 30-26, Cashco 28-28, Hole in the Wall 17-39.

Individual games: Jennifer Kern (L) 207, Julie Chalupsky (HITW) 195, Cheryl Hansen (C) 190.

Individual series: Jennifer Kern (L) 546, Sue Eytcheson (FP) 519, Julie Chalupsky (HITW) 488.

Team games: Hole in the Wall 901, Flower Power 895, Cashco 875.

Team series: Larry’s LP 2493, Flower Power 2475, Hole in the Wall 2449.

Games 50 or more above average: Vida Sears 168 (+50).

Series 100 or more above average: Vida Sears 460 (+106).

Wednesday Night Men’s (End of 1st Half) Standings: Cashco 40-8, 10th Hole 2919, Lions 29-19, Black & Orange 21-27, Northview Drive Inn 21-27, Vacant 4-44.

Individual games: Art Bliven (L) 232, Tim Vasatka (B&O) 215, Roger Tollander (C) 213.

Individual series: Roger Tollander (C) 567, Gerry Vogel (10th) 544, Mike Zajac (C) 510.

Team games: Black & Orange 1010, 10th Hole 970, Cashco 964.

Team series: 10th Hole 2832, Black & Orange 2758, Cashco 2696.

Games 50 or more above average: Tim Vasatka 215 (+71); Art Bliven 232 (+51).

Early Risers Standings: A+ Sanitation 4-0, Hole in the Wall 3-1, Gandy Dancer 1-3, 10th Hole 04.

Individual games: Donna Crain (GD) 193, Phyllis Myers (A+) and Cheryl Parkins (10th) 178, Gayle Naegeli (HITW) 166.

Individual series: Phyllis Myers (A+) 507, Lylah Nelson 450, Gayle Naegli 447.

Team games: A+ Sanitation 682, 10th Hole 677, Hole in the Wall 676.

Team series: A+ Sanitation 2031, Hole in the Wall 1976, 10th Hole 1885.

Games 50 or more above average: Donna Crain 193 (+61).

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Lip’s 4-0, Webster 3-1, Pour House 1-3, Check Services 0-4.

Individual games: Christine Arntson (WB) 186, Nikki Cadotte (CS) 177, Daphney Churchill (L) and Jackie Churchill (L) 167.

Individual series: Daphney Churchill (L) 492, Angie Olson (CS) 454, Jackie Churchill (L) 437.

Team games: Lip’s 665, Check Services 630, Webster Motel 627.

Team series: Lip’s 1984, Webster Motel 1807, Pour House and Check Services 1794.

Games 50 or more above average: Christine Arntson 186 (+66).

Splits converted: 6-7-10: Barb Rivard.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

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Frederic Dance Team performs at halftime

Burnett Blizzard hockey wins tourney

The Frederic Dance Team performed at halftime during both the Viking girls and boys basketball games against Grantsburg on Friday, Dec. 11. The team showed holiday spirit, wearing Santa hats during their performance on Friday night. The dance team is instructed by Jackie Kurkowski and the team will be performing their original routines during several of the home basketball games throughout this winter sports season. – Photo by Marty Seeger

The Burnett Blizzard Peewee A hockey team took first place recently at a tournament in Mora, Minn. – Photo submitted

LEADER SPORTS SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Standings Conf.

Team Grantsburg Pirates 2-0 Webster Tigers 2-0 1-0 Unity Eagles Luck Cardinals 1-1 0-1 St. Croix Falls Saints Siren Dragons 0-2 Frederic Vikings 0-2 Scores Friday, December 11 Grantsburg 60, Frederic 45 Webster 44, Luck 35 Unity 55, Siren 37 Breck, Minn., 57, St. Croix Falls 46 Saturday, December 12 Luck 54, Ellsworth 43 Tuesday, December 15 Northwood 54, Siren 46 St. Croix Central 76, St. Croix Falls 57 Upcoming Thursday, December 17 7:30 p.m. Clear Lake at Frederic Luck at Turtle Lake Friday, December 18 6 p.m.

Siren at St. Croix Falls 7:30 p.m. Webster at Grantsburg Luck at Unity Monday, December 21 7:30 p.m. Unity at Cameron Siren at Drummond Tuesday, December 22 7:30 p.m. St. Croix Falls at Clear Lake Somerset at Grantsburg Clayton at Unity Birchwood at Webster Shell Lake at Luck Blizzard

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Overall 4-0 3-0 1-2 3-2 1-3 1-3 1-3

BOYS HOCKEY

3-2-1

Scores Saturday, December 12 Blizzard 4, Minneapolis West 1 Tuesday, December 15 Blizzard 3, Pine City/Rush City, Minn., 2 Upcoming Saturday, December 19 6 p.m.

Blizzard vs. North Branch at Chisago Lakes Tuesday, December 22 7 p.m.

Somerset at Siren

WRESTLING

Upcoming Thursday, December 17 7 p.m.

LFG at Turtle Lake St. Croix Falls at Clear Lake Saturday, December 19 10 a.m.

LFG at Osceola

West Lakeland Standings Team Conf.

Frederic Vikings 1-0 Siren Dragons 1-0 Luck Cardinals 1-0 0-0 St. Croix Falls Saints Webster Tigers 0-1 Grantsburg Pirates 0-1 Unity Eagles 0-1 Scores Friday, December 11 Siren 55, Unity 35 Luck 56, Webster 27 Frederic 67, Grantsburg 52 Saturday, December 12 Prentice 46, Siren 45 Tuesday, December 15 St. Croix Falls 63, Birchwood 33 Rush City, Minn., 58, Grantsburg 42 Turtle Lake 48, Luck 45 Frederic 69, Solon Springs 10 Upcoming Thursday, December 17 7:30 p.m. Frederic at Rush City, Minn.

Unity at Baldwin/Woodville Friday, December 18 6 p.m.

Webster at Grantsburg Luck at Unity 7:30 p.m. Siren at St. Croix Falls Monday, December 21 7:30 p.m. Braham, Minn., at Grantsburg Siren at Turtle Lake Tuesday, December 22 6 p.m.

Shell Lake at Luck 7:30 p.m. Webster at Cumberland Osceola at St. Croix Falls

Overall 4-0 2-2 2-3 2-1 1-2 1-4 0-3

GIRLS HOCKEY

Lady Blizzard

3-4-0 Scores Saturday, December 12 Lady Blizzard 12, Tomahawk 4 Upcoming Saturday, December 19 Noon Lady Blizzard at Menomonie Tuesday, December 22 7 p.m.

Lady Blizzard at Moose Lake, Minn.

GYMNASTICS

Upcoming Friday, December 18 6 p.m.

St. Croix Falls at Chisago Lakes, Minn.

Saturday, December 19 11 a.m.

Grantsburg at North Branch, Minn.

FOLLOW THE LEADER FOR COVERAGE OF FREDERIC, GRANTSBURG, LUCK, ST. CROIX FALLS, SIREN, UNITY & WEBSTER SPORTS!

Youth Hockey Burnett Blizzard Peewee A Friday, Dec. 11

Burnett Blizzard 4, Mora, Minn., 0

Goals: Andrew Coy (2), Nick Robinson, Drew Alderman.

Assists: Andrew Coy (2), Drew Alderman.

Saves: Bailey Mangen (9).

Saturday, Dec. 12

Burnett Blizzard 5, Duluth, Minn., 1

Goals: Drew Alderman (2), Andrew Coy, Steve Holdt, Aubri Larson.

Assists: Drew Alderman (2), Andrew Coy, Jenna Curtis.

Saves: Bailey Mangen (2).

Sunday, Dec. 13

Burnett Blizzard 5, Mesabi, Minn., 1

Goals: Vinny Larson (2), Drew Alderman, Andrew Coy, Steve Holdt.

Assists: Brett Richison (2), Vinny Larson.

Saves: Bailey Mangen (12).

Saint Croix Falls athletes score big at state tournament MILWAUKEE – More than 1,000 Special Olympics athletes struck down bowling pins and spiked volleyballs during the 2009 Special Olympics Wisconsin Fall Sports Tournament from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Center Court Sports Complex, AMF Waukesha Lanes and the AMF Bowlero Lanes in Milwaukee.

Milwaukee has hosted this state competition for the past 29 years! Fall Sports Tournament is just one of five state athletic competitions, which serves 18 different sports, occurring throughout the year for the 10,000 athletes in Wisconsin.

Three athletes from the St. Croix Falls area competed in the bowling competition including Maren Meister, Shelly Swanson and Kelly Kiska. Both Meister and Swanson took fifth place, and Kiska grabbed second overall.

The tournament took place just a day after MedFest, a free health screening given by volunteer physicians, nurse practitioners, residents and other health-

care volunteers to nearly 100 current and prospective Special Olympics Wisconsin athletes, at the Tommy Thompson Youth Center in Milwaukee.

Hundreds of volunteers and fans joined the athletes for a day of fun and competition. Athletes qualified for the Fall Sports Tournament state games based on their performance at the local, regional or district tournaments.

Green Bay Packer AJ Hawk is the official spokesperson for the Special Olympics, and Kwik Trip and the Law Enforcement Torch Run are mission partners of the organization. Special Olympics Wisconsin holds more than 75 competitions and five state tournaments per year, providing year-round training and competition opportunities through 18 different Olympic-type sports for nearly 10,000 individuals with cognitive disabilities. For more information, visit www.specialolympicswisconsin.org or call 800-552-1324. – submitted

O UTDOOR S

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

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

Osprey on display in the Unity science room BALSAM LAKE – Last spring, when an electrocuted osprey was brought to Unity School, middle school science teacher Dennis Fawver and his students saw it as a rare opportunity to have the bird mounted for public display. In less than two weeks, by doing extra chores and digging deep into their pockets, students raised the needed funds. Possible poses were researched on the Internet and voted upon by the class. The osprey, along with a photo of the winning pose, was sent off to Hopkins Taxidermy in Frederic. The completed mount was recently presented to the graduating class of 2014. Each spring for the past five years or so, Unity has been fortunate to have a breeding pair of ospreys nest on top of a light post overlooking the football field. Through a telescope, students have been able to monitor and record the birds’ activities. Having a mounted osprey in the school is a rare gift indeed, thanks to the efforts of the graduating class of 2014. Due to indiscriminate hunting, egg collection and habitat destruction beginning in the early 1900s, then later due to pesticide contamina-

December grouse dance When that elusive grouse finally takes flight and glides through the woods for heavier cover, your split-second guess on whether to take the shot or not will almost always cost you your bird.

Sometimes, though, you need a little patience. Let that bird get out in front a bit, steady the shotgun and let ‘em have it.

Grouse hunters need to be sharp; they need to be able to distinguish the slightest of

Marty Seeger The Bottom Line

Unity students found themselves with a rare opportunity to have an osprey for display, despite the birds unfortunate end to its life.

Unity middle school students stand behind an osprey mount that will be displayed in the middle school science room. – Photos submitted tion, the osprey was placed on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources endangered species list in 1972. At that

time, their numbers had dwindled to around 80 breeding pairs in the entire state. That very same year, an osprey

sounds and see the bird before it sees them to anticipate a clean shot. If I had possessed these qualities last Sunday morning, my mid-December grouse outing may have been more successful.

For the first hour of the hunt the woods was relatively silent. Then, the drum of a grouse in flight startled my senses, and the game was on. The first flush of the day didn’t offer a shot. The birds were spooky, and flushed long before I could even think of taking a shot.

The bird headed for an immature stand of white pine trees with an undergrowth of prickly ash and tangles of raspberry bushes. It wasn’t long before grouse began busting from the treetops, surprising me at every turn. On one occasion, I took three shots at one bird as it flew sideways out of sight. I miffed every shot, and had only the success of hitting the white pine branches blanketed with clumps of fluffy snow.

It was fun, and frustrating all the way, but I wish I had been able to bring home just one grouse for the frying pan. I have yet to even scratch the surface on the small game license I purchased before the fall frenzy began in early September, and yet I find myself one sandwich short of my annual goal. Last year, I brought home a grouse, and like so many times before I fried the delicate breast meat in plain butter and cloves of garlic, slapped them on two pieces of toast with a little mayo and enjoyed. It’s simple and tasty, and although there are better recipes out there for grouse, you can’t get that kind of meal from a fastfood restaurant. A drive-by burger joint is probably way cheaper than the small game license, fuel costs and the ammo used to bring it all home, but the reward is the four or five hours spent trudging through deep snow while exercising the mind and body, and forgetting about

nest platform program was initiated.

Since then, the number of breeding pairs of osprey has rebounded to 484 in 2008, with just 10 pairs living in Polk County.

Incidentally, more than 80 percent of breeding ospreys nest on artificial platforms. Photos show the home of the osprey mount, a middle school science room, and some of the students who donated toward the project. – submitted

everything negative in life for a short time. Fishing offers this same type of therapy, and with ice already starting to set firm on several area lakes, time will be soon devoted to that.

A few friends of mine already have ice fishing stories to share, but with an unfilled fall turkey permit, a fisher trapping permit and grouse sandwiches on the brain, I find myself in a bit of a struggle to make the switch, and time is running out.

Perhaps by the time this column hit’s the newsstand, I’ll already have a fall turkey, successfully shot on the way to set my trap for a fisher. On my way back to the vehicle, a snapshot at a grouse will have completed my December goals, and then, it’s officially onto ice fishing, but I won’t be holding my breath.

Maple syrup day is Thursday STATEWIDE — Across much of the U.S., Thursday, Dec. 17, will pass as just another calendar date. In Wisconsin, however, this year’s National Maple Syrup Day gives state sugar makers and those who love their wild delicacy a sweet reward.

Wisconsin will hold on to fourth place among U.S. maple-syrup-producing states in what proved to be a recordbreaking harvest for the traditional cottage industry.

“Our state has always been proud to celebrate its maple-syrup heritage at this time of year, as families come home and gather around the table,” said Steve Anderson of Anderson’s Maple Syrup. “For many of us, the distinct taste of Wisconsin maple syrup brings back childhood memories of Saturday breakfast – it also reminds me of tapping our family maples with my grandpa.”

This past spring, Wisconsin family farmers produced more than 200,000 gallons of syrup from maple sap collected from nearly 670,000 taps in every county across the Badger state. The figures represent a 33-percent increase in state

Earlier this year, Wisconsin sugar makers were honored at the U.S. Maple Syrup Hall of Fame with the induction of Norman Anderson, shown stoking an evaporator. — Photo submitted syrup production from 2008, but still fall short of top producing Vermont, Maine and New York.

Knocking off third place may prove difficult for the state’s 3,000 sugar makers, primarily due to recent actions of New York’s senior U.S. Sen. Charles

Schumer. Piggybacking on successful pressure by Vermont syrup loyalists, Shumer has demanded that International House of Pancakes offer New York maple syrup as a healthier alternative to the restaurant’s old-fashioned pancake syrup. IHOP syrups, and other imitations like them, are artificially flavored and sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup – containing no real maple syrup.

The senator has also introduced the Maple Tapping Access Program S. 552, which would incentivize private landowners to open their trees to maple tappers.

However, the threat to Wisconsin sugar makers by New England producers pales in comparison to large Canadian manufacturers that produce 80 percent of the world’s maple syrup. In 2007, according to the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers, Canada, produced 67.6 million pounds of maple syrup and leveraged vast reserves to import 67.7 million pounds to the US. In the last three years alone, export by Canada to the U.S. has grown 30 percent. – submitted

One shot, two deer

Derek Hutton, 12, of Frederic took these two does during his first hunting season with just one shot. He was hunting with his dad, grandpa and uncle at the time. – Photo submitted

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

H E A D L I N E S

Grantsburg $70,000 under budget for 2009

Council approves fire station plan

by Gregg Westigard GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg Village will end the year $70,600 under the original budget for 2009.

The adjustments were made at the monthly village council Monday, Dec. 14. The council also approved a land use permit for the new fire station, set the caucus date for the spring elections and updated a very thick set of ordinances.

The board also received a final report on

the three-year lease of the golf course and accepted a $12,000 check from Dave Huff and the Grantsburg Golf Course LLC. (See separate story.)

The 2009 budget adjustments came in two parts. Revenues were up $39,000 and expenses were down $31,600. The major portion of the revenue increase came from the first payment for the land sold to the Grantsburg Fire Association.

That $45,000 receipt offset a loss of $14,000 in budgeted interest income and a reduction of $10,000 in the amount budget for swimming pool donations.

The biggest reduction in expenses was

Amery poet laureate reads work

LaMoine MacLaughlin, director of the Northern Lakes Center for the Arts, Amery, and Amery’s poet laureate, has been reading from his new book of poetry, “A Scent of Lilac and other poems” in Polk and Burnett county libraries for the past six weeks. Tuesday, Dec. 15, he appeared to the largest audience yet at the Burnett Community Library, Webster. Shown listening to MacLaughlin are (L to R): Bonnie Niemi, president of the Burnett Community Library Friends of the Library; Laura Rachford, president of the Burnett Community Library Board of Directors; and Mary Poretti, longtime library volunteer. MacLaughlin’s feeling about poetry is that it must be able to connect with the reader. The book sells for $5, $7 if ordered by mail from Northern Lakes Press, Amery. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

Baskets for neighbors The annual event when the Webb Lake Community Club fills Christmas baskets for those in their community that will be alone for the holidays isn’t all work. The ladies have a good time playing games for gifts and enjoy a potluck. They also sing along with Dave Czaja, shown with his concertina.

Shown with Czaja is Connie Fischer. – Photos submitted

$17,000 in wages and benefits since there were no overtime hours for 2009. The total 2009 village budget, before the adjustments, is $1,553,779.

The new fire station will be built on the vacant block northwest of the village hall and library. Preliminary plans show that the main entrance/exit for the fire trucks will be onto Broadway Avenue, with smaller trucks exiting on Burnett Avenue. Parking for firefighters would be on the Pine Street side of the block. The land has been purchased from the village, and the fire association is waiting word on whether building costs will be

covered by funds from a stimulus grant that has been applied for.

The council approved a revision of its land use ordinance and code of ordinances, completing a long review process of the documents which stand 5 inches high. All the codes and ordinances are now in conformity to statutes.

Looking ahead, the village set Monday, Jan. 11, as the nominating caucus date to chose candidates for three seats on the village council. The seats up in April are held by Mike Langevin, Dean Tyberg and James O. Nelson.

Cost-share funding available

BURNETT COUNTY - Cost share assistance will be available in 2010 for a variety of land and water conservation, protection and restoration practices.

The funds for this program are provided through the Burnett County Land and Water Conservation Department, via a grant from the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.

This program provides funds for practices associated with management of intensive grazing, conventional agriculture, and shoreland protection and restoration. This is a countywide program with anticipated installation dates to occur prior to Nov. 1 each year.

The cost-share rate in most cases is 70 percent (county pays 70 percent;

landowner pays 30 percent).

Funds will be distributed on a firstcome, first-served basis determined by the date the actual cost-share agreement is signed.

Applications, a full list of eligible practices, and additional information are available from the Burnett County LWCD office located at the Burnett County Government Center, 7410 CTH K, Siren. The LWCD office is located in Room 21. It is recommended to apply by Feb. 1, 2010, to increase the chances of having your project funded.

Technical assistance for the installation of these practices is also available. Contact the LWCD office at 715-349-2186 for more information. - from LWCD

Scocos sues over dismissal STATEWIDE - The recently fired secretary of Veterans Affairs has sued the state veterans board for allegedly violating his rights as an active serviceman returning from duty.

The lawsuit by former Secretary John Scocos seeks a couple of things.

For starters, his old job back.

The board voted 5-0 to fire Scocos two days before Scocos Thanksgiving and two months after he returned from a second tour in Iraq.

At a press conference Dec. 10, Scocos said that the board’s actions directly violated laws that prevent employers from firing veterans returning from war.

“It is a shame and a dishonor to this state … and to our veterans … that the new board of Wisconsin Veterans Affairs believes that protections we and they demand by law of all state employers, do not apply to the board and to the secre-

tary of the department,” Scocos said.

The lawsuit also seeks $500,000 in damages from the board. Scocos’ attorney, James Troupis, says that covers more than just pay, investigation costs and attorney fees. Troupis says the damages will not simply be what his client has suffered, but they will be doubled in order to send “a very clear message” to the Department of Veterans Affairs, new board members, and others that they will not be allowed to treat veterans in such a way.

Two members of the state veterans board reached after the announcement had no comment. The board has long been at odds with Scocos, especially this year after a review found the veterans home at King went over its budget and racked up hundreds of thousands of dollars in questioned spending.

Scocos was appointed in a 2003 when the board was still controlled by Republican appointees. It’s now controlled by appointees of Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

102nd birthday celebrated

The ladies of Webb Lake Community Club filled 34 baskets with homemade goodies for those in the Webb Lake area who will be alone during the holidays. Shown (R to L) with some of the filled baskets are Barb Doherty, Mary Colvin, Lue Streff, Marge Sorensen, Carol Koenig (front) and Jan Myers. Others who contributed with the effort include Pat Smith, Georgia Edwall, Donna Morgan, Carol Arceneau, Sharon Rochel, Dottie McMahon, Dotty Busby, Lois Dornfeld, Val Ralph and Pat Chenoweth.

Eunice Kanne celebrated her 102nd birthday at Grantsburg’s Continuing Care Unit on Tuesday, Dec.15. Kanne, a former teacher, is well-known in Burnett County for her entertaining newspaper columns recalling days gone by and several books she’s written detailing local history. Photo by Priscilla Bauer

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

First H1N1 death in Polk County

POLK COUNTY - Polk County Health Department reports the first H1N1 influenza-related death in Polk County, an adult with underlying health conditions.

Out of respect for the family and patient confidentiality laws, the Polk County Health Department is not releasing the individual’s sex, age, race or location of residence.

“The loss of a loved one for anyone is heartbreaking.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends during this difficult time,” said Gretchen Sampson, Polk County health officer.

“For most people, the 2009 H1N1 flu is not severe.

However, the risk of hospitalization or death is higher in young children, pregnant women, individuals with compromised immune systems and those with other chronic illnesses,” said Sampson. “We have seen an increase in availability of H1N1 vaccine in recent weeks and expect more H1N1 vaccine to be available in the

coming weeks. While the Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced earlier this week that the H1N1 vaccine is now available to the general public, we recommend that all individuals, especially those on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s target list, get vaccinated as another wave of H1N1 cases could occur later this season.”

Vaccination is especially recommended for those within the CDC’s target group, which includes: • Pregnant women • Persons who live with or provide care for infants age 6 months or younger (examples: parents, siblings and day care providers) • Health care and emergency medical services personnel • All people from 6 months through 24 years of age • Persons 25-64 years of age with conditions associated with higher risk of complications from influenza

People who develop significant flu symptoms or those with flu symptoms who are at risk for severe flu or flu complications are advised to consult their healthcare provider immediately. While vaccination will be the best protection against influenza, it is still important for everyone to continue the basic protection and prevention measures: stay home if you are ill; cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with your sleeve, not with your hands; wash your hands thoroughly and frequently; and stay healthy by getting plenty of rest, eating healthy food and exercising.

For more information about H1N1 influenza, please visit www.pandemic.wisconsin.gov, call 211, the Polk County Health Department at 715-485-8500 or contact your health-care provider. People can access the upcoming H1N1 and seasonal vaccination clinic schedules in Polk County by going to www.polkcountyflu.com. – submitted

Van Hollen awards county-tribal law enforcement grants BALSAM LAKE/SIREN – Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen this week announced the awarding of an $11,775 state county-tribal law enforcement grant to the Polk County/St. Croix Chippewa cooperative program and $12,928 to the Burnett County/St. Croix Chippewa cooperative program.

The grant program is designed to foster cooperation and mutual commitment by the counties and tribes to the unique law-enforcement issues on tribal lands.

“This cooperative grant program has helped tribes and county law enforcement officials to identify areas that need more law enforcement focus on tribal lands,” said Van Hollen. “By funding cooperative program plans, these grants allow funding of targeted law enforcement services.”

The grant program funds a variety of law-enforce-

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Siren School bookkeeper resigns

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – The resignation of Andrew Licata, Spooner, bookkeeper for the Siren School District, was accepted at a special meeting of the school board Wednesday, Dec. 9. The resignation was effective immediately, and the position was posted for hiring applications the following day.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

Alleged drunk driver claimed vehicle was stolen OWI third offense charged POLK COUNTY – Joseph Bohn, 27, Luck, was arrested and charged with OWI, third offense, and operating with prohibited alcohol content on Dec. 12 after his vehicle was found in a ditch near a bar in the town of West Sweden.

Police had been called from the bar by

the owner of the vehicle, reporting that it had been stolen from the bar. An officer was sent out and found the vehicle in the ditch. The officer went to the bar and told Bohn he didn’t believe the vehicle was stolen. Bohn allegedly said he didn’t know how his vehicle got up the road. The officer asked Bohn how he knew it was up the road, and Bohn then admitted it wasn’t stolen. Field sobriety tests were given, including a PBT, which

Passenger bails out of moving SUV as police try to stop drunk driver POLK COUNTY - Heidi Viebrock, 38, Dresser, was arrested and charged with OWI, first offense, and felony fleeing on Dec. 11. That night at about 6:30 p.m., police were told Viebrock was driving north on CTH Y from 195th Street in a gray Dodge Durango and that she was intoxicated.

Police found her driving on CTH Y and tried to stop her, but she didn’t stop.

As the vehicle approached an intersec-

tion, a female passenger got out of the vehicle as it was still moving. The woman told the officer that Viebrock was driving, didn’t “know what’s going on,” and was going to crash.

Two police officers followed Viebrock for several miles before she stopped and got out of the vehicle with her hands raised. She had bare feet. A breath test registered .256. — with information from the Polk County Sheriff’s Dept.

read .21.

In other incidents: • On Dec. 10, Eladio Grande, 23, Star Prairie, was arrested and charged with OWI, first offense, after going in the ditch at CTH M near 13th Ave. His preliminary breath test registered .213 percent.

• Allan Porter, 37, Lindstrom, Minn.,

was arrested and charged with OWI, fifth offense, and operating without a driver’s license, after driving into a ditch on Dec. 11. The accident occurred at Hwy. 8 and 120th Street.

• On Dec. 11, Larry Sanford, 66, Cushing, was arrested and charged with OWI, first offense, after going in the ditch with his truck on Hwy. 87. — with information from the Polk County Sheriff’s Dept.

Teen jailed in stabbing

POLK COUNTY - A 16-year-old from St. Croix Falls was jailed Sunday evening, Dec. 13, after being accused of stabbing an 18-year-old at Trollhaugen Ski Area near Dresser.

According to an incident report filed by a Polk County Sheriff’s deputy, authorities were summoned to the scene at 6:39 p.m. and upon arrival saw an 18year-old male lying in the parking lot with blood on his right arm and his arm wrapped in gauze. When the deputy asked what had happened, the male said he had been stabbed. People gathered at the scene told the officer the person who did the stabbing was in a car directly be-

hind the deputy.

The deputy spoke with the 16-year-old in the car, and the teen said he had stabbed the 18-year-old out of self-defense after the 18-year-old hit him. After the stabbing, the 16-year-old threw the knife in a garbage can near the ticket office.

The 18-year-old was stabbed once in the lower back and once in the upper right arm.

Alcohol did not play a factor in the incident, according to the incident report. with information from Polk County sheriff’s Dept.

Polk County circuit court Courtney O. Anderson, St. Croix Falls, speeding, $175.30.

Sarah J. Arnold, Rice Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Nicholas E. Arvold, Colfax, speeding, $250.90.

Kimberly G. Behm, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Paul J. Boettcher, Oakdale, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Nadezhda B. Brinker, Clear Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Trudy A. Canine, Lindstrom, Minn., driving too fast for conditions, hwy. area, $288.70.

Michael A. Casanova, Hudson, speeding, $175.30; operator fail./have passenger seat belted, $10.00; operate, controlled substance, $1,132.50; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Bryan J. Church, Star Prairie, speeding, $175.30.

Clint J. Coleman, Richfield, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Keith B. Collette, Frederic, speeding, not guilty plea.

Richard K. Cook, Webster, speeding; seat belt violation, not guilty pleas.

Creative Concrete, Clayton, vehicle equipment violations, group 1, $238.30.

Gloria J. Dahlberg, Danbury, operating while revoked, $263.50.

Frank J. Dorsey, Clear Lake, operate while under influence, 9-mth. revocation, assessment & compliance, $817.50.

Dunaway Construction, Forest Lake, Minn., contract motor carrier fail./licensed, $767,50; nonregistration of vehicle > 10,000 lbs, $263.50.

Julie A. Elmer, Clear Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

Peter N. Forster, Balsam Lake, nonregistration of vehicle, not guilty plea.

Lauren A. Fountain, Amery, speeding, $175.30.

Mariah J. Gaffey, Dresser, operating while under influence; operating with PAC .10 or more, not guilty pleas.

Brian T. Galvin, Hudson, speeding, $200.50.

Sarah P. Goneau, Luck, speeding, $175.30.

Jennifer A. Grant, Wyoming, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Joshua D. Gravdal, Rush City, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Dustin D. Green, Amery, speeding, $175.30.

Byron L. Griswold, St. Croix Falls, fail./slow vehicle, passing stopped emerg. vehicle, $263.80.

Kari Berit R. Gustafson, Red Wing, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Michelle M. Handy, Centuria, operate after rev./susp. of registration, $175.30.

Michael R. Headley, Osceola operate motor vehicle w/o adequate muffler, not guilty plea.

Shane J. Hochradel, Balsam Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Michael J. Hogan, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Tiffany M. Holden, Centuria, speeding, $175.30.

Jon A. Jensen, Frederic, speeding, $175.30.

David A. Johnson, Clear Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Jason L. Johnson, Frederic, operating while suspended, $200.50.

Mark G. Johnson, St. Paul, Minn., illegally construct, use or fail./remove or attach, name/address or DNR number to unattended tree stand, $148.20; hunt deer w/o required color clothing, $148.10.

Robert M. Josephs, Hastings, Minn., speeding, $295.60.

Brandon A. Kahl, Balsam Lake, speeding, $175.30.

David S. Kammerud, Turtle Lake, operate w/o valid license, $200.50; nonregistration of auto, etc., $175.30.

Eric D. Kinisher, Somerset, drink open intoxicants in MV, $263.50.

Joyce A. Knopps, Clayton, speeding, $175.30.

Lee J. Knutson, New Richmond, speeding, $175.30.

Gus J. Koecher, St. Croix Falls, shine wild animals (10 p.m.-7 a.m.), not guilty plea.

Lynn T. Lecy, Lindstrom, Minn., inattentive driving, $187.90.

Robert T. Lee, St. Croix Falls, fail./stop at stop sign, $175.30.

Heather M. Lessard, Hastings, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Monica R. Livingston, Centuria, operating while suspended, $200.50 Walter M. Louma, Minneapolis, Minn., illegally construct use of fail./remove or attach name/address or DNR number to unattended tree stand, $148.20.

Karie A. Magnuson, Houlton, speeding, $175.30.

Joshua P. Martell, Somerset, speeding, $175.30.

Castro R. Martinez, St. Croix Falls, operate w/o valid license, $200.50; failure to keep vehicle under control, $213.10.

Tammy L. Melin, Luck, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Miller Transfer, Roberts, violate Class A Hwy. weight limits, $1,017.42.

Kimberly J. Miner Gearin, Star Prairie, speeding, $200.50.

Cindy J. Moe, Clayton, speeding; failure to notify police of accident; not guilty pleas.

Brice S. Moltzer, Amery, operating while under in-

Burnett County sheriff’s report Accidents Dec. 4: Robert C. Behan, 56, Webster, was westbound on Dubois Road in Scott Township when he lost control while negotiating a curve. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree.

There were no injuries reported.

Dec. 11: Michael S. Curtis, 20, Webster, was northbound on Polansky Road in Siren Township when he lost control and entered the south ditch. No injuries were reported, but the vehicle was heavily damaged.

Three citations were issued to the driver.

Dec. 11: Seth Pardun, 17, Danbury, was on Old Hwy. 35 in Meenon Township, attempting a left-hand turn onto Fairgrounds

Road when he hit the vehicle driven by Travis D. Karrow, 20, Webster, who was parked at the stop sign on the south side of the intersection. Pardun reported that he did not see the Karrow vehicle in time to avoid the accident. No injuries and no citations were reported.

Dec. 13: Gloria J. Dahl, 68, Siren, reported minor damage to her vehicle when she hit a pole in a parking lot in the village of Siren. No injuries were reported.

Arrests and citations Dec. 6: Aaron J. Jetto, 28, Frederic, was arrested in Polk County on a Burnett County warrant.

Dec. 10: Shane A. Kurtz, 29, Grantsburg, was arrested on a Polk County warrant.

Dec. 12: Kevin D. Hass Jr., 21, Siren was arrested on a Burnett County warrant. Mandy J. Sandberg, 30, Siren, was arrested on a Burnett County warrant.

Burnett Co. marriage license Nicholas B. Hallberg, Grantsburg, and Kimberly R. Nelson, Grantsburg, Dec. 7.

fluence; operating with PAC .10 or more; speeding; nonregistration of vehicle <=10,000 lbs.; transferee fail./apply new vehicle title; pending.

Vanessa M. Mosay, Luck, knowingly operating while revoked (cause property damage), $263.50.

Colin D. Mueller, Luck, nonregistration of vehicle <= 10,000 lbs., $175.30.

Bradley E. Newman, Osceola, speeding, $200.50.

Lyle R. Nielsen, Luck, speeding, $175.30.

Christopher A. Nuckles, St. Croix Falls, speeding, $175.30.

Otto Transportation LLC, West Fargo, N.D., violate Class A Hwy. weight limits, $221.85.

Dean T. Pajerski, New Brighton, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Jesse M. Parks, Chisago City, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Christopher D. Paulson, Greenfield, speeding, $250.90; knowly operating while revoked (cause property damage), $263.50.

Justin W. Peck, Centuria, operate w/o valid license, $200.50.

Brent S. Petersen, Siren, speeding, $175.30.

Jeffrey L. Reed, Balsam Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Jon C. Reiten, Balsam Lake, vehicle equipment violations, group 3, $175.30.

Jose I. Resendiz Paz, Barron, speeding, $175.30.

Shannon P. Richardson, Baldwin, operate w/o valid license, $200.50.

Samantha J. Samens, Cumberland, hit and run, unattended vehicle, $203.50.

Denise D. Schaaf, Centuria, nonregistration of auto, etc., not guilty plea.

Dallas W. Schauls, Luck, operate w/o valid license, $200.50.

Kevin A. Schmidt, Frederic, speeding, $175.30.

Travis D. Schullo, Cumberland, nonregistration, of vehicle > 10,000 lbs., not guilty plea.

Daniel M. Shilson, Osceola, operating while suspended, pending Vernon W. Sigsworth, Amery, operating while under influence, not guilty plea.

Marcus O. Simonson, Milltown, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Brian S. Snyder, Dresser, speeding, $175.30.

Zacariah W. Stoklasa, Osceola, nonregistration of auto, $175.30.

William J. Struck, Frederic, harvest reporting re-

quirements, $182.70.

Swanke Concrete Construction, Princeton, vehicle equipment violations, group 3, not guilty plea.

Arlinnton F. Tejeda, Apple Valley, Minn., operate while under influence, 7-mth. revocation, assessment, $754.50.

Tyler P. Thiel, Amery, speeding, $175.30.

Abbie M. Thill, Turtle Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

VFW United 6856, Milltown, pumping sewage onto the ground, $753.00.

Michael D. Viebrock, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Phillip W. Vogler, Greensboro, N.C., nonregistration of auto, etc., $175.30; speeding, $175.30.

Michael L. Wells, Dresser, operating while under influence; seat belt violation; operating left of centerline; hit and run, not guilty pleas.

James E. White, Roberts, illegally construct, use or fail./remove or attach name/address or DNR number to unattended tree stand, $148.20.

Tyler R. White, Amery, seat belt violation, $10.00 twice.

Jamie L. Williams, Turtle Lake, display unauth. vehicle registration plate, pending; seat belt violation, $10.00 twice.

Gregory E. Williamson, Clayton, speeding, $175.30.

Justin A. Wold, New Richmond, speeding, $175.30.

Aaron C. Woodley, Cumberland, nonregistration of vehicle <= 10,000 lbs., $175.30; vehicle equipment violations, group 3, $175.30.

Jeffrey C. Zacco, Siren, knowingly operating while revoked (cause property damage), $263.50.

Jason M. Schell, Centuria, obstruct navigable water, $767.50.

Corey Laqua, Frederic, fail. to report goose harvest, $182.70.

Joseph E. Turch, Stillwater, Minn., place/use/hunt unauthorized or illegal bait, $343.50.

Migual Ocelo, no town given, susp. license, $175.30; no valid license, $200.50; speeding, $200.50.

Adam Rixmann, Osceola, violation of GDL, $186.00.

Siren police report Nov. 29: A fight was broken up by officers about 1:32 p.m. at Midtown Tavern involving Mike Gorman and another person.

The incident was turned over to the probation department for follow-up.

Dec. 12: Between no-parking times of 2 a.m. to 6 a.m., $25 parking tickets were issued to – 1) A Dodge four-door parked at Lofty Pines and Shady Lane. 2) A four-door Buick parked on

Hwy. 35/70 and Bacon Street. 3) A four-door Lincoln parked on Fourth Avenue and Capes Street. 4) A four-door Toyota on Hwy. 35/70 and Bacon Street.

Dec. 12: At 8:31 p.m., an officer investigated a report that some kids were messing around at Timbers Theatres, breaking some bulbs on the indoor Christmas tree. They were asked to leave the theater. No suspects were found.

Dec. 19: At 1:40 p.m., a car owned by Michelle R. Dusick, which was legally parked in the Four Winds Market parking lot, was struck by a vehicle driven to the store by Eileen FarrellTjaden, 41, Amery. According to the report, Farrell-Tjaden said she went into the grocery store.

When she came out, she found her vehicle touching the parked vehicle.

Burnett County civil court Arrow Financial Services LLC vs. Ardyth Stream, Hertel, $2,216.08.

Michael L. Benjamin vs.

David G. St. John Sr., Hinckley, Minn., $3,938.59.

Citibank vs. Dennis L. Doriott, Webster, $4,940.00.

Asset Acceptance Assignee of American Express vs. Tim Bennet, Grantsburg, $4,052.88.

St. Croix Regional Medical vs. William M. Larson, St. Croix Falls, $1,539.30.

St. Croix Regional Medical vs. Salle L. Bachmann, Danbury, $3,606.70.

Pine Medical Center vs.

Rhonda J. Taylor, Webster, $2,132.05.

Radiologist Associates vs.

Nicholas Bremer, Webster,

$1,508.50.

SMDC Health System vs.

Nicole E. Gille, Danbury, $1,481.91.

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College vs. Carl Juleen, Grantsburg, $2,976.36.

Capital One Bank vs. Eddie D. Siebenthal, Grantsburg, $2,372.88.

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009 (Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13)

NOVITZKE, GUST, SEMPF, WHITLEY & BERGMANIS Timothy T. Sempf #1019141 314 Keller Ave. N., Ste. 200 Amery, WI 54001 Phone: 715-268-6130

502147 WNAXLP

Call Dave

715-483-1358 501814 16-17Lp 6-7a,dp

FOR RENT 1-BR Apartment In St. Croix Falls

500

$

/month plus deposit

Small pets allowed.

715-483-9386 502203 17-18Lp

(Dec. 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT ST. CROIX COUNTY JOSEPH R. DUBAK 692 170th Avenue Somerset, WI 54025, And CHRISTINA A. DUBAK 692 170th Avenue Somerset, WI 54025, Plaintiffs, vs.

PRAXAIR DISTRIBUTIONS, INC. 2000 Hwy. 65 N. New Richmond, WI 54017, ABC INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, PRAXAIR, INC. 39 Old Ridgebury Road Danbury, CT 06810-5113, DEF INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, CAMACHO PROPERTIES, LLC 1072 Golden Oaks Drive Hudson, WI 54016, GHI INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, Defendants.

Case No. 09CV1279 Personal Injury - Other: 30107 SUMMONS TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: You are hereby notified that the Plaintiffs named above have filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

The Complaint, which is attached, states the nature and basis of the legal action.

Within forty-five (45) days of receiving this Summons, you must respond with a written Answer, as that term is used in chapter 802 of the Wisconsin Statutes, to the Complaint. The Court may reject or disregard an Answer that does not follow the requirements of the statutes.

The Answer must be sent or delivered to the Court whose address is: 1101 Carmichael Road, Hudson, Wisconsin 54016-7708 and to Michael J. Brose, Doar, Drill & Skow, 103 North Knowles Avenue, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017, Plaintiff’s attorney. You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper Answer within (45) days, the court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint.

A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated: Oct. 6, 2009.

Michael J. Brose #1000827 DOAR, DRILL & SKOW, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiffs 103 North Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI 54017 Telephone: 715-246-2211

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

(Nov. 11, 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY RURAL AMERICAN BANK, Plaintiff, vs.

RICHARD A. HUTTON, Defendant.

Case No. 08 CV 783 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on December 29, 2008, in the amount of $53,882.62, 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, Dec. 30, 2009, 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: Part of the E1/2 of NE1/4, Section 26-36-17, described as follows: Beginning at a point which is South 50 feet and West 416 feet from the Northeast corner of the NE1/4 of NE1/4, Section 26-36-17, thence South 416 feet; thence West 208 feet; thence South 1,040 feet; thence East 624 feet to the East line of SE1/4 of NE1/4, Section 26-36-17; thence South to the Southeast corner thereof; thence West to the Southwest corner thereof; thence North to a point which is South 456 feet from the Northwest corner of NE1/4 of NE1/4, Section 26-36-17; thence East 416 feet; thence North 208 feet; thence East 208 feet; thence North 208 feet; thence East to the point of beginning.

PIN: 036-00600-0100 & 03600610-0000.

Town of Luck, Polk County, Wisconsin.

STREET ADDRESS: 1312 State Road 48, Luck, WI 54853.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wis., this 29th day of October, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, 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

WESTSIDE APARTMENTS

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

For Rent - 1-BR Upstairs Apartment Available Now.

380

$

/mo. plus deposit Call 715-327-4471 before 2 p.m. or 715-566-2139 after 2:30 p.m.

501407 15Ltfc 5atfc

450/mo.

Plus utilities and deposit.

Pets considered.

Available immediately.

Matthew D. Whiteside, 18, Danbury, hunt game birds in closed season, $289.35.

Sharon F. Rivard, 64, Somerset, nonregistration of vehicle, $203.50.

Frederic & Siren

715-327-8638 494252 1Ltfc 43atfc

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY FOR RENT IN LUCK, WIS.

Deluxe Twin Homes in 8th St. Court – Spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath home includes refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and washer and dryer. Also included is an attached 2-car garage with an auto. door opener.

Monthly rent of $775 includes lawn care, garbage 494453 service and snow removal.

1Ltfc 43a,dtfc

Kyle Johansen, 715-472-4993

(Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, vs.

WADE M. HANSEN, and LOUISA C. HANSEN, Defendants SUMMONS (By Publication) Case No. 09 CV 905 Case Classification No. 30304 Money Judgment TO: Louisa C. Hansen 2104 210th Avenue Centuria, WI 54824 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

Within forty (40) days after December 3, 2009, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the complaint. The demand must be sent or delivered to the court whose address is: Clerk of Circuit Court Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street Suite 300 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and to plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Steven J. Swanson 105 Washington Street South P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer within forty (40) days after December 3, 2009, the Court may grant Judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A Judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A Judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated the 30th day of November, 2009.

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney for Plaintiff 105 Washington Street South P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

Alan L. Lawrence, 44, Balsam Lake, speedometer violations, $174.10.

Donald L. Alden, 48, Siren, OWI, $691.50, license revoked six months, alcohol assessment.

Eric D. Anderson, 39, Siren, violate restraining order, $147.80; disorderly conduct, $300.00; restitution, $170.82.

Kevin H. Hass, 45, Webster, theft of movable property, sixmonth probation, sentence withheld, $88.00.

Douglas A. Peters, 59, Grantsburg, battery, one-year probation, restitution to be determined, alcohol assessment, $200.00.

Thomas B. Franklin, 24, Hudson, OWI, $1,219.00, 80-day jail sentence, license revoked 39 months, alcohol assessment

Burnett Co. warrants Robert J. Meyers, 29, Burlington, failure to pay fines, Dec. 9.

Jonathon C. Oiyotte, 31, Webster, warrant - failure to appear, Dec. 9.

Polk Co. deaths

Marilyn Frank, 91, Amery, died (Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) Nov. 27, 2009.

STATE OF WISCONSIN Alora R. Breault, 16, Dresser, CIRCUIT COURT died Nov. 27, 2009.

POLK COUNTY Patricia I. Tobeck, 67, WESTconsin Credit Union Dresser, died Dec. 5, 2009.

444 South Broadway Menomonie, WI 54751, Plaintiff, (Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) vs.

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT BARRY J. THORUD POLK COUNTY 733 100th Street Amery, WI 54001, OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, Defendant LLC, AS SERVICER FOR U.S. BANK NA, AS TRUSTEE FOR Case No. 08 CV 752 THE REGISTERED HOLDERS NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE OF AEGIS ASSET BACKED Code: 30404 SECURITIES TRUST By virtue of and pursuant to a MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH Judgment of Foreclosure CERTIFICATES, entered in the above-entitled SERIES 2005-4 Plaintiff, action on December 19, 2008, I Vs will sell at public auction at the Polk County Courthouse in the FRANK DEMYDOWICH, et al Defendants.

City of Balsam Lake, in said Case Number: 09 CV 80 Polk County, on January 14, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., all NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE of the following described mortPLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by gaged premises, to-wit: virtue of a judgment of forecloLot One (1) of Certified sure entered on April 2, 2009, in Survey Map No. 2459, the amount of $175,286.77 the recorded in the office of the Sheriff will sell the described Register of Deeds for Polk premises at public auction as County, Wisconsin, in Volume follows: 11 of Certified Survey Maps, TIME: Jan. 6, 2010, at 10 a.m. page 167, Document No. TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash 568323, located in or money order at the time of Government Lot 2, Section sale; balance due within 10 days Twenty-nine (29), Township of confirmation of sale; failure to Thirty-three (33) North, Range pay balance due will result in Sixteen (16) West, Town of forfeit of deposit to plaintiff. 2.

Lincoln, Polk County, Sold “as is” and subject to all Wisconsin. legal liens and encumbrances.

PLACE: Front Entrance to the The above property is located at 733 100th Street, Amery, Polk Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, County, Wisconsin.

Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

TERMS: DESCRIPTION: Part of the 1. 10% cash or certified check North Half of the Southeast down payment at time of Quarter of the Northwest sale, balance upon confir- Quarter, Section 28, Township mation by Court.

36 North, Range 17 West, 2. Sale is subject to all unpaid Village of Luck, Polk County, real estate taxes and special Wisconsin, described as Lot 1 assessments. of Certified Survey Map No. 3. Purchaser shall pay any 4869 filed in Volume 21, Page Wisconsin real estate transfer 196, as Document No. 699681 fee.

(Parcel No. 146-481).

4. Property is being sold on an PROPERTY ADDRESS: 303 “as is” basis without warran- 1st Street North, Luck, WI ties or representations of any 54853. kind.

TAX KEY NO.: 146004810000.

5. Purchaser shall be respon- Dated this 11th day of sible for obtaining possession November 2009 of property. /S/ Timothy G. Moore Dated at Menomonie, Sheriff of Polk County Wisconsin, this 6th day of J. T. Lovett November, 2009.

State Bar #1019525 Tim Moore, Sheriff Attorney for Plaintiff Polk County, Wisconsin 13700 W. Greenfield Avenue SCHOFIELD, HIGLEY & MAYER, Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 S.C. Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the Attorneys for Plaintiff creditor’s attorney and is Bay View Offices, attempting to collect a debt on Suite #100 its behalf.

700 Wolske Bay Road Any information obtained will be Menomonie, WI 54751 used for the purpose. (177596) 715-235-3939 500174 WNAXLP 500367 WNAXLP

You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not demand a copy of the Complaint within forty (40) days, the Court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated: December 10, 2009.

2-BR, 1-Bath Apartment

$

Curtis R. Ziemer, 63, Shell Lake, dog running at large, $187.90.

Joseph R. Clayson, 22, Fridley, Minn., operate ATV without working spark arrestor, $154.50.

501388 WNAXLP

vs.

MIKE A. JOHNSON PROGRESSIVE NORTHERN INSURANCE Defendants.

Case Code: PI Auto 30101 Case Number: 09 CV 894 SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION THE STATE OF WISCONSIN TO MIKE A. JOHNSON: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

WITHIN FORTY (40) days after January 6, 2010, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the Complaint, the demand must be sent or delivered to the Court whose address is: Clerk of Court 300 Judicial Center 1005 West Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and Timothy T. Sempf, Esq. Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley & Bergmanis 314 Keller Ave. N., Suite 200 Amery, WI 54001

In Centuria

499748 WNAXLP

(Dec. 16, 23, 30) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY MARGARET E. STONE Plaintiff, and MID-CENTURY INSURANCE and CHAMPVA Involuntary-Plaintiffs,

Burnett County criminal court

FOR RENT

501778 WNAXLP

501459 WNAXLP

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY LANDMARK COMMUNITY BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, vs.

BRUNFELT PROPERTIES, INC. Defendant.

Case No. 09 CV 49 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on October 21, 2009, I will sell 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: Tuesday, January 26, 2010, at 10 o’clock a.m., all of the following described mortgage premises, to-wit: Lots 6 and 7, Block 32, Original Plat of the City of St. Croix Falls, located in Government Lot 1, Section 30, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, City of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 281-00617-0000.

STREET ADDRESS: 123 Washington Street South, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

TERMS OF SALE: Cash.

DOWN PAYMENT: 10% of amount bid by cash or certified check.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 23rd day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, 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

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Agenda: Clerk’s Minutes, Treasurer Financial Report, Update On Handicap Accessibility Of Community Center, Update On Barking Dogs Issue, Citizen Concerns, Appointment Of Election Officials For 2-Year Term, Approve Operator License, Road Maintenance, Set January Agenda, Pay Bills.

501982 17L 7a Julie Peterson, Clerk

POLK COUNTY POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Polk County is accepting applications for the following position: Heavy Equipment Operator $20.95/hr.

Full Time Deadline to apply: Dec. 23, 2009 JOB DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM POLK COUNTY’S WEB SITE AT: www.co.polk.wi.us, or Polk County Dept. of Employee Relations, 100 Polk Co. Plaza, #229, Balsam Lake, WI 54810, 715-485-9176. YOU MUST COMPLETE A POLK COUNTY EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. AA/EEOC 502154 17L (Dec. 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK Plaintiff, vs.

RONALD L. AMES Defendant SUMMONS (By Publication) Case No. 09 CV 889 Case Classification No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage TO: Ronald L. Ames 2439 113th Avenue Dresser, WI 54009 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

Within forty (40) days after December 9, 2009, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the complaint. The demand must be sent or delivered to the court whose address is: Clerk of Circuit Court Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street Suite 300 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and to plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Steven J. Swanson 105 Washington Street South P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer within forty (40) days after December 9, 2009, the Court may grant Judgment against you for the award of money or legal action requested in the Complaint and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A Judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A Judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated the 1st day of December, 2009.

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney for Plaintiff 105 South Washington Street P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

501713 WNAXLP

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

501101 WNAXLP

(Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK Plaintiff, vs.

JEFFREY G. SWANSON and HILLS SUPER VALUE and, REMINGTON LAW OFFICES, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 188 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 14, 2009, in the amount of $139,561.47, 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, January 20, 2010, 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 to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION: Lot 8 of Certified Survey Map No. 587 recorded in Volume 3 of Certified Survey Maps on page 79 as Document No. 390001, being located in the SW1/4 of the SE1/4 and W1/2 of SE1/4 of SE1/4, Section 33-36-17, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 036-00831-0000 STREET ADDRESS: 1529 240th Avenue, Luck, WI 54853 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 19th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS SERVICING, L.P. Plaintiff, vs.

KERRY L. LYSDAHL, et al Defendants.

Case Number: 09 CV 29 AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on April 9, 2009, in the amount of $109,736.42 the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: December 29, 2009, at 10 a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in cash or by certified check. Balance to be paid upon confirmation PLACE: Front Entrance to the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: Lot 2 of Certified Survey Map No. 4134, recorded June 26, 2003, in Volume 18 of Certified Survey Maps, on Page 164, as Document No. 660373, in the Town of Eureka, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2284 190th St., Centuria, WI 54824.

TAX KEY NO.: 02-00279-0120.

Dated this 16th day of November 2009. /s/Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County Christina E. Demakopoulos State Bar #1066197 Attorney for Plaintiff 13700 W. Greenfield Avenue Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 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. (174402)

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL MANAGER Village of Grantsburg

Applications are now being accepted for a part-time seasonal position of Municipal Swimming Pool Manager. The Manager will have the responsibility of administration of the Community Swimming Pool in Grantsburg. This position will report to and be overseen by the Village Board of Grantsburg.

A full description of duties is available at the Village Office, 316 South Brad Street, Grantsburg, WI 54840.

Wage: Dependent upon qualifications.

Qualifications: U.S. Citizen; 18 years of age or older; high school diploma or its equivalent; Candidate must be willing to become National Certified Pool Operator. Water Safety Instructor’s (WSI) certification by the American Red Cross is required. The manager will also be expected to attend periodic workshops to update techniques of pool operations and safety.

Apply: By submitting an application by Monday, January 11, 2010, by 4 p.m., to the Village of Grantsburg, 316 South Brad Street, Grantsburg, Wisconsin 54840, 715-463-2405. Applications are available at the Village Office.

Applications will be screened and those most qualified for the position will be invited for the interview process. The selected candidate will be offered a conditional job offer and subjected to a background check. There will be a one-year 501872 17L 7a probationary period.

The Village of Grantsburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TOWN OF LAKETOWN

Monthly board meeting will be held Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. at the Cushing Community Center.

Agenda includes clerk’s report; treasurer’s report; open forum; review/ accept tax assessor contract; discussion of taking over private drive; appoint election workers; audit charity fund books; pay bills; review correspondence; adjourn. 502208 17L Patsy Gustafson, Town Clerk (Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee under Pooling and Servicing Agreement dated as of June 1, 2007, Equifirst Loan Securitization Trust 2007-1 Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-1 by: Barclays Capital Real Estate, Inc., d/b/a Homeq Servicing, as its Attorney-In-Fact 4837 Watt Ave. North Highlands, CA 95660, Plaintiff, vs.

MARK D. FOOTE and JANE DOE, unknown spouse of Mark D. Foote 268 50th Avenue Clear Lake, WI 54005, Defendants.

Case No. 09-CV-688 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000.00 FORTY-DAY SUMMONS THE STATE OF WISCONSIN, TO: MARK D. FOOTE and JANE DOE, unknown spouse of Mark D. Foote, 268 50th Avenue Clear Lake, WI 54005 You are hereby notified that the plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you. The complaint, which is also served upon you, states the nature and basis of the legal action.

Within 40 days after December 3, 2009, you must respond with a written answer, as that term is used in Chapter 802 of the Wisconsin Statutes, to the complaint. The court may reject or disregard an answer that does not follow the requirements of the statutes. The answer must be sent or delivered to the court, whose address is: Clerk of Circuit Court Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and to O’Dess and Associates, S.C., Plaintiff’s attorneys, whose address is: O’Dess and Associates, S.C. 1414 Underwood Avenue Suite 403 Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53213 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer within 40 days, the court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the complaint. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

O’DESS AND ASSOCIATES, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff By: M. ABIGAIL O’DESS Bar Code No. 1017869 POST OFFICE ADDRESS: 1414 Underwood Ave., Ste. 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.

501387 WNAXLP

The Monthly Board Meeting Will Be Held Monday, December 21, 2009, At The Cushing Community Center At 7 p.m.

(Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY EAGLE MORTGAGE & LOAN, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

DAWN HOULISTON, et al., Defendant.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 08-CV-500 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure and sale entered in the above-entitled matter, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell at public auction Polk County Justice Center, 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on January 26, 2010, at 10 a.m., the real estate and mortgaged premises as directed by said judgment to be sold and hereinafter described as follows: The South 20 feet of Lot Fourteen (14), and all of Lot Fifteen (15), Block Twenty-four (24), City of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

-andAll that part of Government Lot One (1), Section Seven (7), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of said Government Lot 1, 850 feet West of the Northeast corner thereof, said point also being the Northwest corner of Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 366; thence S10˚41’13”E 573.95 feet; thence N89˚23’10”W to the Easterly right-of-way line of the town road known as River Road as the same is now laid out, constructed and traveled; running thence Northwesterly along said right-of-way line of said road to the North line of said Government Lot 1; thence Easterly along the North line of said Government Lot 1 to a point of beginning.

Property Address: 308 S. Adams, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

Terms of sale are cash, unless other arrangements are made prior to sale. Down payment of 10% of the amount bid by cash or certified check with the remainder due upon confirmation of sale. Buyer shall be responsible for all costs of sale, any real estate taxes due and any real estate transfer fee. The property is being conveyed “AS IS.” Dated: Nov. 19, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Polk County Sheriff Drafted by: MAIN STREET LAW OFFICES, LLC 504 Main Street, Suite 200 La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-1355 This communication is from a debt collector. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

WNAXLP

TOWN OF STERLING MONTHLY TOWN BOARD MEETING

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY CITIBANK, NA as Trustee for WaMu Series 2007-HE2 Trust, Plaintiff, vs.

JOSHUA MALEITZKE and JANE DOE, unknown spouse of Joshua Maleitzke, and JOHN DOE and/or JANE DOE, UNKNOWN TENANTS, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-352 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000.00 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on October 30, 2008, in the amount of $402,529.47, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 6, 2010, 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 Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin DESCRIPTION: The Northerly 100 feet of the Southerly 200 feet of that part of Government Lot Six (6) of Section Seventeen (17), and of Government Lot Four (4) of Section Eighteen (18), both in Township Thirty-five (35) North of Range Sixteen (16) West, Polk County, Wis., laying between Bone Lake and the North and South Highway running through said Government Lot 4.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2100 Bone Lake Drive W., Town of Georgetown.

TAX KEY NO.: 026-007070000 Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, WI O’DESS & 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.

NOTICE

500985

Notice is hereby given that the Balsam Lake Town Meeting will be held on Monday, December 21, at 8 p.m., at the town hall. The agenda includes: Public comment, minutes, approval of bills, updates on town road projects, town ordinance issues, nomination and election of election officials and other misc. updates.

Brian R. Masters, Clerk 502265 17L 7d

Notices/ Employment

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NOTICE TOWN OF BALSAM LAKE MONTHLY BOARD MEETING

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, Vs. CALVIN C. THOMPSON, and RACHEL E. CARDIN, and CAPITAL ONE BANK USA, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 371 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on June 30, 2009, in the amount of $129,345.24, 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: Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, at 10 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: Lot 6, Plat of Scenic Ridge, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 024-01301-0600 Street Address: 945 187th Street, Dresser, WI 54009 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wis., this 6th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, 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 500302 WNAXLP

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www.the-leader.net

PART-TIME CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR WITC Rice Lake & Superior Campus Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is seeking learningfocused, creative and dynamic candidates for part-time, adjunct minimal hours Certified Nursing Assistant Instructors at the WITC Rice Lake & Superior Campuses. Teaching assignment includes both classroom and clinical hours.

Qualifications include: Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent*, two years (4,000 hours) of occupational experience and licensed as an RN in the State of Wisconsin with two years as an RN with one year long-term-care experience OR two years’ home health experience OR has been an instructor in a school of nursing for RN or LPN students. (WI State Board of Health requirement). *Educational equivalency: Occupation experience combined with education and training preparing a person for the occupation totaling 7 years or 14,000 hours shall be equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.

WISCONSIN For a complete list of qualificaINDIANHEAD tions and to apply, visit our Web TECHNICAL site at www.witc.edu/employ.

COLLEGE TTY 888-261-8578. 501463 5-7a-e 16-r,L WITC is an equal opportunity/access/employer and educator.

500097 WNAXLP

Be an educational leader by helping to promote family strengths through community-based educational programming. Backed by University research, incorporate pertinent findings from the family and consumer sciences into educational programs on topics such as parent support and community partnerships; managing life transitions; nutrition, health and food safety for families; increasing family self-sufficiency; and family and public policy. Build and strengthen community coalitions and partnerships while collaborating with a diverse network of community-based agencies, educational institutions, groups and individuals. Identify, recruit and develop program volunteers.

For a complete position description and how to apply, please visit: www.uwex.edu/ces/hr.

UWEX is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We promote excellence through diversity and encourage all qualified 501809 16-17L individuals to apply.

ACCOUNTANT/CPA

Stotz & Company, a CPA firm, located in Grantsburg, WI, is currently seeking a full-time, experienced CPA or Accountant.

Skills required: • Bookkeeping.

• Computer aptitude.

• Income tax preparation.

• Accounting skills a must, with some years of public accounting experience (or equivalent) strongly desired.

• Knowledge of public utility or government audit procedures is a plus.

If you possess these skills, please send letter, resume and references to:

Stotz & Company, CPA P.O. Box 55 Grantsburg, WI 54840 Fax: 715-755-4813 E-mail: bobswitalla@hotmail.com

Darcy J. Kolander, GrantsJohn S. Truhler Jr., 64, Union burg, and William C. Harper, MillTownship, Nov. 30.

Vernon W. Peterson, 91, town, issued Dec. 9, 2009.

Lindsay J. Anderson, Balsam Daniels Township, Nov. 28.

Lake, and Jeremiah R. Johnson, Balsam Lake, issued Dec. 11, (Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) 2009.

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT BRANCH II POLK COUNTY IMPACT SEVEN, INC. and IMPACT ACCEPTANCE Notice Is Hereby Given That CORPORATION The Regular Monthly Town 147 Lake Almena Drive Board Meeting Will Be Held Almena, WI 54805, Plaintiffs, On Tuesday, December 22, At vs.

6:30 p.m. At The Town Hall.

Agenda: CARLSON PARTNERS GROUP, 1. Call meeting to order LLC 2. Clerk and treas. reports D/B/A/ STERLING DESIGN 3. Any corrections on the printed agenda in the newspaper.

325 Farm Hill Green 4. Public input Stillwater, Minnesota 55082, 5. Old Business and 6. Employee report 7.

Correspondence KEVIN C. CARLSON and 8. New business PATRICIA J. CARLSON A. Appoint Election Inspectors 325 Farm Hill Green 9. Bills/vouchers 10.

Set next meeting date Stillwater, Minnesota 55082, 11. Closed session per WI Statute and 19.85(1)(c) re: Patrolman’s wages and job description.

LAMPERT YARDS, INC. 11.

Move to adjourn 1850 Como Avenue Andrea Lundquist, Clerk St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, Defendants (Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE STATE OF WISCONSIN SALE CIRCUIT COURT Case No. 09-CV-511 30404 POLK COUNTY PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that U.S. Bank National Association by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on the 12th day ND, Plaintiff, of November, 2009, in the face vs. amount of Six Hundred Eightyone Thousand Eight Hundred James D. Gaudette and Fifty-six Dollars and Thirty-five Cara L. Gaudette, cents ($681,856.35), the sheriff Defendants. or his assignee will sell the Case Code: 30404 premises described below at public auction as follows: NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE DATE and TIME: February 17, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

Case No. 09 CV 407 TERMS: Ten percent (10%) of Hon. Robert H. Rasmussen the successful bid must be paid to the Clerk of Courts PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by Office at the time of the sale in virtue of a judgment of cash, cashier’s check, money foreclosure entered on the 25th order or certified funds, pay- day of September, 2009, the able to the Clerk of Court’s Sheriff of Polk County will sell Office. Personal checks can- the described premises at public not and will not be accepted. auction as follows: The balance of the successful DATE/TIME: January 28, 2010 at bid must be paid to the Clerk 10:00 a.m. of Courts Office in cash, cashTERMS: 10% of successful bid ier’s check, money order, or must be paid to the Sheriff at certified funds, no later than sale in cash or by certified ten days after the court’s concheck. Balance due within 10 firmation of the sale or else days of court approval. the 10% down payment is forPurchaser is responsible for feited to the plaintiff. The payment of all transfer taxes property is sold “as is,” is not and recording fees. Sale is AS available for viewing, and subIS in all respects. ject to all liens, encumbrances, and unpaid real PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center estate taxes. The successful 1005 West Main Street, bidder is also responsible for Balsam Lake, WI 54810 payment of the real estate transfer tax fee.

DESCRIPTION: PLACE: Foyer area at the Polk That part of the Northwest County Justice Center, at Quarter of the Southwest 1005 West Main Street, Quarter (NW1/4 SW1/4) and Balsam Lake, WI 54810. the Southwest Quarter of the DESCRIPTION: Lot 4 of CertiNorthwest Quarter (SW1/4 fied Survey Map No. 1748, reNW1/4) of Section Twenty-five corded in Volume 8 of Certi(25), Township Thirty-five (35), fied Survey Maps on page 96, North, Range Fifteen (15) as Document No. 523148, exWest, Town of Johnstown, cept the South 125 feet therePolk County, Wisconsin, of, being part of Lot 4 of Certidescribed as follows: fied Survey Map No. 1171, reBeginning at a point on the corded in Volume 5 of said East and West Quarter line of maps on page 162, as Docusaid Section Twenty-five (25), ment No. 446043, located in 324.0 feet East of the West the SE1/4 of the SW1/4, also One-Quarter corner of said known as Outlot 146 of the Section Twenty-five (25); Assessor’s Plat of the City of thence South parallel to the St. Croix Falls, and part of the West line of said Section NE1/4 of the SW1/4, also Twenty-five (25), 67.4 feet; known as Outlot 130 of the thence South 78 degrees 15 Assessor’s Plat of the City of minutes East 93.9 feet; thence St. Croix Falls, Section 29, North parallel to the West line Township 34 North, Range 18 of said Section Twenty-five West, City of St. Croix Falls, (25) to the high-water mark of Polk County, Wisconsin.

Long Lake; thence Westerly PIN: 281-01158-0400. along the high-water mark of Long Lake to a point North of PROPERTY ADDRESS: The adthe point of beginning; thence dress of the premises under South parallel to the West line foreclosure is located at 931 of said Section Twenty-five Pine Street, St. Croix Falls, WI (25) to the point of beginning.

54024.

Dated at Balsam Lake, WI, (FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes this 14th day of Dec., 2009. that the property address is Tim Moore 1943 Long Lake Lane, Polk County Sheriff Comstock, WI) Attorney William C. Gamoke Timothy G. Moore Wolfgram, Gamoke & Sheriff of Polk County Hutchinson, S.C. Attorney for Community Bank of Stein & Moore, P.A. 332 Minnesota St., Central Wisconsin Suite W-1650 P.O. Box 1178 St. Paul, MN 55101 Marshfield, WI 54449 651-224-9683 715-387-1155 502189 17L

NOTICE OF MEETING TOWN OF WEST SWEDEN

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Village Ordinance Sec. 8-1-3c No person shall park any vehicle, emergency vehicles excluded, on any street in the Village of Webster between the hours of 2 a.m. and 10 a.m. on any day between November 1 and the following April 1, unless streets have been cleared of snow, except upon permission granted each day by the Village Police Department upon daily application thereto. Unless otherwise posted.

Michael J. Spafford, Police Chief 502022 17L 7a Village of Webster

FAMILY LIVING EDUCATOR (80%) BARRON COUNTY

Polk Co. marriages

Burnett Co. deaths

WNAXLP

Village of Webster Winter Parking Restrictions

(Nov. 11, 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY AnchorBank, fsb f/k/a S&C Bank, Plaintiff, v.

Barbara A. Geissinger and Unknown Spouse of Barbara A. Geissinger, Defendants NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No: 09 CV 245 Case Code: 30404 Judge: Robert H. Rasmussen PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on the 1st day of June, 2009, in the amount of $735,533.94, the Polk County Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: December 30, 2009, at 10 a.m.

TERMS:10% of successful bid must be paid to the Sheriff at sale in cash or by certified check. Balance due within 10 days of court approval. Purchaser is responsible for payment of all transfer taxes and recording fees. Sale is AS IS in all respects and subject to all liens and encumbrances.

PLACE: Polk County Sheriff’s Office, 1005 West Main St., Suite 900, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

DESCRIPTION: Lot 54, and that part of the Lot 56 of the plat of Park Addition to the Village of Balsam Lake consisting of a strip of land of uniform width of 50 feet South of and adjacent to the North boundary line of said Lot 56, and extending from the water’s edge of Balsam Lake, being the East boundary line of said Lot 56, thence West to the boundary of said Lot 56, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 901 Park Drive, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

Timothy G. Moore Polk County Sheriff ECKBERG, LAMMERS, BRIGGS, WOLFF & VIERLING, P.L.L.P. Nicholas J. Vivian (#1047165) Attorney for Plaintiff 1809 Northwestern Avenue Stillwater, MN 55082 (651) 439-2878 Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 U.S.C. Section 1692), we are required to state that we are attempting to collect a debt on our client’s behalf and any information we obtain will be used for that purpose.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

(Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, Vs. LARRY F. HANSON and KATHLEEN R. HANSON, and REGIONS HOSPITAL, and TARGET NATIONAL BANK, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 400 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 14, 2009, in the amount of $178,698.73, 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, January 20, 2010, 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: Lot One (1) of Certified Survey Map No. 3228 recorded in Volume 14 of Certified Survey Maps, page 250 as Document No. 604660 located in part of the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of the SW1/4) of Section Twenty-four (24), Township Thirty-two (32) North of Range Eighteen (18) West, town of Alden, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 002-01591-0000 Street Address: 225 185th Street, Star Prairie, WI 54026 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 19th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787 501099 WNAXLP

(Dec. 2, 9, 16) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, vs.

COLIN D. MUELLER and CAROLYN M. MEYER f/k/a CAROLYN M. MUELLER, Defendants.

SUMMONS (By Publication) Case No. 09 CV 890 Case Classification No. 30301 Money Judgment TO: Colin D. Mueller 2552B 190th Street Luck, WI 54853 The State Of Wisconsin To The Above-Named Defendants: You are hereby notified that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

Within forty (40) days after December 2, 2009, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the complaint. The demand must be sent or delivered to the court whose address is: Clerk of Circuit Court Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street Suite 300 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and to plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Steven J. Swanson 105 South Washington Street P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer within forty (40) days after December 2, 2009, the Court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A Judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A Judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated this 25th day of November, 2009.

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney for Plaintiff 105 South Washington Street P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

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(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY BOUNDARY WATERS BANK 2230 Eagle Creek Lane, Suite 1 Woodbury, MN 55129, Plaintiff, vs.

HAROLD SHARP 2225 West Orleans St., Apt. 323 Stillwater, MN 55082 KATHLEEN SHARP 2225 West Orleans St., Apt. 323 Stillwater, MN 55082 MICHAEL J. KOCH 2114 210th Street Centuria, WI 54824 PAMELA M. KOCH 2114 210th Street Centuria, WI 54824 AND JOHN DOE AND MARY ROE, Defendants.

Case No. 09-CV-476 Case Type: Foreclosure of Mortgage 30404 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order for Default Judgment and Summary Judgment dated Oct. 22, 2009, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wis., will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Polk County Courthouse in the City of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on the 11th day of February, 2010, at 10 a.m., the real estate and mortgaged premises located in Polk County, Wisconsin, directed by said Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order for Default Judgment and Summary Judgment, to be sold and described as follows: The West Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 15, Township 35, Range 18, Polk County, Wisconsin.

(Street Address: 2114 210th Street, Centuria, WI 54824; PIN: 020-00366-0000) Terms of Sale: Cash or 10% of amount bid by certified check with the balance to be paid upon confirmation of sale. Sale subject to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any, actually paid by the mortgagee, on said premises and the costs and disbursements, including attorney’s fees as allowed by law.

Dated: December 11, 2009.

Timothy Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wis. 502149 WNAXLP

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PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 29

UNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

BUS DRIVER WANTED

Unity School District is taking applications for bus driver. Commercial driver’s license (CDL) with school bus endorsement required. Materials to obtain permit and assistance to obtain license are available. The process of obtaining a CDL is obtaining permit, bus training & scheduling road test.

Qualified applicants will be given first consideration. Applications may be obtained from the District Office, 715-825-3515, or off the District Web site: www.unity.k12.wi.us. Interested, qualified persons may apply by submitting letter of application, District application, and letters of recommendation to: Brandon W. Robinson, District Administrator, Unity School District, P.O. Box 502197 17-18L 7-8a,d 307, Balsam Lake, WI 54810. Open until filled. EOE

NOTICE OF CAUCUS - VILLAGE OF SIREN

Thursday, January 7, 2010, 2 p.m.

Village Office • 24049 First Avenue • Siren, Wisconsin Notice is hereby given to the electors of the Village of Siren that a caucus will be held on Thurs., Jan. 7, 2010, at 2 p.m. at Village Hall for the purpose of placing in nomination candidates for the following offices to be voted on at a spring election to be held on Apr. 6, 2010: Three (3) Village Trustees to succeed Dave Doty Sr., Rudy Mothes & Luanne Swanson whose terms expire.

Ann L. Peterson, Clerk/Treasurer 502075 17-18L WNAXLP Village of Siren

NOTICE OF FREDERIC SCHOOL BOARD REGULAR MEETING Monday, December 21, 2009, 6 p.m.

Frederic 7 - 12 School, Room 107

1. Call to order 2. Opening ceremonies A. Approve agenda B. Welcoming remarks C. Audience to visitors and delegations 3. Reports of officers A. Minutes from previous meetings B. Invoices and receipts C. 2009 - 10 budget D. Board member reports/Governance 4. Reports of the administration A. Superintendent B. High School Principal C. Elementary Principal D. Buildings and Grounds E. Food Service 5. Unfinished business A. 2008 - 2009 Audit report 6. New business A. Personnel 1. Girls Basketball coach contract B. Contracts: 1. Solbrekk, Inc. (Technology review) C. Open enrollment: Transportation policy D. Junior High Athletic Procedure E. “Race to the Top” - Federal finding program 7. Closed session: Wisconsin statutes 19.85 (1) (c)(f)(i): negotiations; personnel matters, contract information 8. Business as a result of closed session 502209 17L 9. Adjourn (Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S .Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, MN 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: All that part of the Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 33, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, Town of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin,

described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast Corner of said Section 33; thence S. 00º 31’ 14” E, along the east line of said Section 33, 99.62 feet to the south R/ W of U.S. Highway “8”; thence westerly 84.72 feet along said R/W, being a curve concave to the north, having a central angel of 1º 38’ 22”, a radius of 2,960.51 and whose chord bears N. 89º 55’ 56” W., 84.71 feet; thence N. 89º 06’ 45” W., along said south R/W, 170.07 feet to the point of beginning; thence N. 89º 06’ 45” W., along said south R/W, 1,058.42 feet to the west line of said NE-NE; thence S. 00º 30’ 31” E., along the west line of said NE-NE, 1,217.86 feet to the Southwest Corner of said NE-NE; thence S. 89º 07’ 03” E., along the south line of said NE-NE, 1,313.48 feet to the Southeast Corner of said NE-NE; thence N. 00º 31’ 14” W., along the east line of said NE-NE, 711.82 feet; thence N. 89º 09’ 19” W., 109.45 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the northeast, said curve having a radius of 367.00 feet, a central angle of 51º 57’ 28” and whose chord bears N. 63º 10’ 35” W., 321.52 feet, thence northwesterly 332.81 feet along said curve; thence N. 37º 11’ 51” W., 49.56 feet; thence N. 52º 48’ 09” E., 43.65 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the northwest, said curve having a radius of 333.00, a central angle of 39º 45’ 53” and whose chord bears N. 20º 43’ 05” E., 226.50 feet; thence northerly 231.11 feet along said curve; thence N. 00º 50’ 08” E., 36.90 feet to the point of beginning.

Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wis. THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 DCA/14148 502228 WNAXLP

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(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S. Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the aboveentitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: The Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (NE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirty-three (33), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, except the following described parcel: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 33; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East, along the East line of said Section 33, 99.62 feet to the South R/W of U.S. Highway “8”; thence Westerly 84.72 feet along said R/W, being a curve concave to the North, having a central angle of 1 degree 38 minutes 22

seconds, a radius of 2,960.51 and whose chord bears North 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds West, 84.71 feet; thence North 89 degrees 06 minutes 45 seconds West, along said South R/W, 170.07 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 06 minutes 45 seconds West, along said South R/W, 1,058.42 feet to the West line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 00 degrees 30 minutes 31 seconds East, along the West line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,217.86 feet to the Southwest corner of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 03 seconds East, along the South line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,313.48 feet to the Southeast corner of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence North 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds West, along the East line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 711.82 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 19 seconds West, 109.45 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the Northeast, said curve having a radius of 367.00 feet, a central angle of 51 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds and whose chord bears North 63 degrees 10 minutes 35 seconds West, 321.52 feet; thence Northwesterly 332.81 feet along said curve; thence North 37 degrees 11 minutes 51 seconds West, 49.56 feet; thence North 52 degrees 48 minutes 09 seconds East, 43.65 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the Northwest, said curve having a radius of 333.00, a central angle of 39 degrees 45 minutes 53 seconds and whose chord bears North 20 degrees 43 minutes 05 seconds East, 226.50 feet; thence Northerly 231.11 feet along said curve; thence North 00 degrees 50 minutes 08 seconds East, 36.90 feet to the point of beginning, Polk County, Wisconsin.

(FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes that the property address is 2102 U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin) Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 DCA/14148 502229 WNAXLP

Notices VACANCY NOTICE DISTRICT BOOKKEEPER School District of Siren

The School District of Siren has opened a search for a permanent, full-time District Bookkeeper beginning as soon as possible. Compensation is negotiable depending on education and experience.

Duties associated with this position include the oversight of all financial transactions for the school district, including payroll.

Specific responsibilities include accounts payable, accounts receivable, developing and managing the school district budget, calculating revenue and expenditure projections, purchase orders, managing state and federal grants, online reporting, bank reconciliation, district insurances, cash flow, preparation for the annual district audit, internal reporting to the administration and school board, and preparation for the annual meeting.

Qualifications for this position require the following: • Accounting degree or equivalent level of school bookkeeper experience • Intense attention to detail and accuracy • Strong organizational skills and neatness • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting • Ability to meet strict deadlines and set priorities • Willingness to work extended days for afternoon and evening meetings • Excellent computer skills with the ability to operate school district financial software.

Candidates Interested in applying should submit a letter, resume and references to: Scott Johnson, District Administrator, School District of Siren, 24022 4th Ave., Siren, WI 54872. All candidates are subject to a criminal background check.

Application Deadline: Until filled. Interested candidates are 502072 17-18L 7-8a encouraged to apply immediately.

The Siren School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S. Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the aboveentitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: All that part of the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirty-three (33), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, Town of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 33; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East, along the East line of said Section 33, 1,318.58 feet to the Northeast corner of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, being the point of beginning; thence

North 89 degrees 07 minutes 03 seconds West, along the North line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,313.48 feet to the Northwest corner of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 00 degrees 30 minutes 31 seconds East, along the West line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 528.15 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 10 seconds East, 286.34; thence North 00 degrees 34 minutes 28 seconds West, 318.69 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 13 seconds East, 853.42; thence South 00 degrees 35 minutes 25 seconds East, 79.98 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 34 seconds East, 173.93 feet to the East line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence North 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds West, along the East line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 285.18 feet to the point of beginning.

Lot Twelve (12) of Certified Survey Map No. 3996, recorded in Volume 18 of Certified Survey Maps on page 26 as Document No. 650286, located in the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirtythree (33), Township Thirtyfour (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West.

Together with rights of ingress and egress in common with the abutting property owners, their heirs and assigns, over and across the 66 foot access easement as described and shown on Certified Survey Map No. 379, recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 108, as Document No. 378754; Certified Survey Map No. 380, recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 109 as Document No. 379003; Certified Survey Map No. 381 recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 110 as Document No. 379004; and Certified Survey Map No. 717, recorded in Volume 3 of Certified Survey Maps on page 209 as Document No. 399750.

(FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes that the property address is 2102 U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin) Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 502230 WNAXLP DCA/14148

PAGE 30 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

NOTICE OF RECALL ELECTION AND SAMPLE BALLOTS December 22, 2009

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13,20) (except lots in which structures 60.00 feet; thence northwestexist) erly, along the arc of a curve STATE OF WISCONSIN concave southwesterly, the CIRCUIT COURT PROPERTY ADDRESS: long chord which bears POLK COUNTY No property address listed, N25º59’41”W, 10.17 feet and St. Croix Falls, WI THE RIVERBANK, having a radius of 170.00 feet; Plaintiff, MB Development Mortgages thence S52º00’00”W, 164.26 vs.

Parcel #1: A Parcel of land feet; thence N62º00’00”W, Biermann Investment, LLC, a located in the NE1/4 of the 88.87 feet; thence Wisconsin limited liability NW1/4, SE1/4 of the NW1/4, N27º00’00”W, 383.74 feet; company, NW1/4 of the NE1/4 and thence N49º00’00”E, 136.46 M.B. Development, LLC, a SW1/4 of the NE1/4, Section feet; thence S81º14’45”E, Wisconsin limited liability 33, Township 34 North, Range 78.74 feet; thence northwestcompany, 18 West, City of St. Croix Falls, erly, along the arc of a curve Polk County, Wisconsin, being concave southeasterly, the Mark P. Biermann, an individual, further described as follows: long chord which bears Gregory R. Palen, an individual, Commencing at the West N32º42’49”E, 235.53 feet and Michael J. Seeland, an Quarter corner of said Section; having a radius of 290.00 feet; individual, thence N00º14’54”W, along thence northerly, along the arc Kirtland C. Woodhouse, an the west line of said section of a curve concave northwestindividual, 1,322.39 feet; thence erly, the long chord which S89º21’18”E, 1,316.24 feet to bears N32º33’49”E, 179.73 Sammon Heating & Air the southwest corner of said feet and having a radius of Conditioning, Inc., NE1/4 of the NW1/4; thence 220.00 feet; thence Plummer Concrete, Inc., N00º22’04”W, along the west N08º27’14”E, 104.33 feet; T. Kroll’s, Inc., line of said NE1/4 of the thence N41º41’21”W, 30.71 Merchants Bank, NW1/4, 36.63 feet to the point feet; thence westerly along the of beginning; thence continarc of a curve concave Biermann Amery, LLC, uing N00º23’04”W, 540.93 southerly, the long chord which Homes by Biermann Amery, feet; thence easterly, along the bears S86º25’23”W, 18.26 feet LLC, arc of a curve concave and having a radius of 300.00 Biermann Homes Amery, LLC, northerly, the long chord which feet; thence northwesterly, Biermann Contracting, Inc., bears N74º41’25”E, 143.99 along the arc of a curve Homes by Biermann St. Croix feet and having a radius of concave northeasterly, the Falls, LLC, 300.00 feet; thence easterly, long chord which bears along the arc of a curve N62º16’21”W, 381.75 feet and Biermann Homes Turtle Lake, concave southerly, the long having a radius of 350.00 feet; LLC, chord which bears thence S62º00’00”W, 192.54 Bernco, a Division of United N84º43’19”E, 283.80 feet and feet; thence S24º11’15”E, Building Centers, having a radius of 350.00 feet; 149.28 feet; thence Simon Electric Const. Co. Inc., thence southeasterly, along the S66º11’06”W, 84.32 feet; Arrow Building Center, arc of a curve concave thence S06º25’45”W, 229.81 southwesterly, the long chord feet; thence N85º29’20”W, Consolidated Lumber Company, which bears S47º33’09”E, 143.68 feet; thence Defendants.

305.40 feet and having a N45º57’46”W, 306.18 feet to Case No.: 09-CV-04 radius of 378.28 feet; thence the point of beginning. ConCase Code: 30404 southeasterly, along the arc of taining 32.28 acres more or FORECLOSURE OF a curve concave northeasterly, less and being subject to MORTGAGE the long chord which bears existing easements, S51º28’02”E, 339.58 feet and EXCEPT Lots 1, 2, 3, 21, 47, 48 NOTICE OF having a radius of 365.00 feet; FORECLOSURE SALE and 49 of the Plat of Glacier thence southeasterly along the Ridge.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by arc of a curve concave virtue of a judgment of forePROPERTY ADDRESS: No southwesterly, the long chord closure entered on August 31, property address listed, St. which bears S70º34’02”E, 2009, in the amount of (a) Croix Falls, WI. 220.30 feet and having a $6,644,381.73 against Biermann Parcel #3: Lots 1, 2, 9-30 and radius of 734.73 feet; thence Investment, LLC, in the amount outlot 1, Whispering Waters, southeasterly, along the arc of of (b) $3,321,283.89 against MB City of Amery, Polk County, a curve concave southwestDevelopment, LLC, and in the Wisconsin, EXCEPT lots with erly, the long chord which amount of (c) $4,983,739.79 structures, each of which bears S55º45’51”E, 158.54 against Mark P. Biermann, the should be a separate parcel. feet and having a radius of Sheriff will sell the described PROPERTY ADDRESSES: 219 736.26 feet; thence southeastpremises at public auction as Greenview Lane, 215 Greenerly, along the arc of a curve follows: view Lane, 216 Greenview concave northeasterly, the TIME: January 27, 2010, at Lane, 220 Greenview Lane, long chord which bears 10:00 a.m.

224 Greenview Lane, 228 S57º53’41”E, 163.43 feet and Greenview Lane, 300 Greenhaving a radius of 565.30 feet; TERMS: Pursuant to said judgview Circle, 304 Greenview thence N34º07’22”E, 159.86 ment, 10% of the successful Circle, 308 Greenview Circle, feet; thence N68º47’02”E, bids must be paid to the sheriff 312 Greenview Circle, 316 450.09 feet; thence at the sale in cash, cashier’s Greenview Circle, 320 GreenS90º00’00”E, 256.33 feet; check or certified funds, payview Circle, 324 Greenview thence S73º26’32”E, 276.24 able to the clerk of courts (perCircle, 328 Greenview Circle, feet; thence S69º50’22”E, sonal checks cannot and will 332 Greenview Circle, 336 225.71 feet to the east line of not be accepted). The balance Greenview Circle, 340 Greensaid NW1/4 of the NE1/4; of the successful bids must be view Circle, 344 Greenview thence S00º30’28”E, along paid to the clerk of courts in Circle, 348 Greenview Circle, said east line and the east line cash, cashier’s check or certi352 Greenview Circle, 356 of said SW1/4 of the NE1/4 fied funds no later than ten Greenview Circle, 239 Green244.95 feet; thence westerly, days after the court’s confirview Lane, 235 Greenview along the arc of a curve conmation of the sale or else the Lane, 231 Greenview Lane, cave northerly, the long chord 10% down payment is forfeitNo. Address listed for Outlot 1, which bears N82º53’41”W, ed to the plaintiff. The properAmery, WI. 315.52 feet and having a ties are sold “as is” and subradius of 1,538.44 feet; thence Parcel #4: Unit Numbers 5-28, ject to all liens and encumwesterly, along the arc of a brances.

Whispering Waters Condomincurve concave southerly, the ium, City of Amery, Polk CounPLACE: In the foyer area of the long chord which bears ty, Wisconsin, EXCEPT condoPolk County Justice Center, N78º29’07”W, 49.78 feet and minium units which have been 1005 West Main St., in the City having a radius of 966.01 feet; constructed, each of which of Balsam Lake, Polk County. thence S22º49’17”W, 115.93 should be a separate parcel.

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERfeet; thence S51º10’39”W, PROPERTY ADDRESSES: 211 TIES AND MANNER OF SALE: 140.38 feet; thence Coves Court, 213 Coves Biermann Investment, LLC S10º02’35”W, 145.83 feet; Court, 215 Coves Court, 217 Mortgage thence S42º20’43”W, 96.68 Coves Court, 221 Coves Parcel #1: The East One-Half of feet; thence N75º22’44”W, Court, 223 Coves Court, 225 the Northwest Quarter (E1/2 of 326.77 feet; thence Coves Court, 227 Coves NW1/4) and the West One-Half N33º22’59”W, 231.85 feet; Court, 366 Coves Court, 364 of the Northeast Quarter (W1/2 thence N88º20’56”W, 117.84 Coves Court, 362 Coves of NE1/4) of Section Thirtyfeet; thence southerly, along Court, 360 Coves Court, 346 three (33), Township Thirty-four the arc of a curve concave Coves Court, 344 Coves (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) westerly, the long chord which Court, 342 Coves Court, 340 West, EXCEPT Lot 1 of Certibears S24º34’09”W, 44.51 feet Coves Court, 314 Coves fied Survey Map No. 1587 reand having a radius of 239.98 Court, 312 Coves Court, 310 corded in Volume 7, on page feet; thence southwesterly, Coves Court, 308 Coves 166, as Document No. 506531, along the arc of a curve Court, 306 Coves Court, 304 located in the N1/2 of NW1/4 concave northwesterly, the Coves Court, 302 Coves and EXCEPT that part of the long chord which bears Court, 300 Coves Court, NE1/4 of the NW1/4 and S73º38’06”W, 172.86 feet and Amery, WI NW1/4 of NE1/4 deeded to the having a radius of 125.00 feet; Timothy G. Moore State of Wisconsin, Departthence S30º56’29”W, 22.60 Polk County Sheriff ment of Transportation in the feet; thence N67º00’00”W, Quit Claim Deed, dated Janua44.37 feet; thence MURNANE BRANDT ry 10, 1984, and recorded in S57º00’00”W, 172.03 feet; Attorneys for Plaintiff Volume 464 on page 82 as thence S35º23’32’W, 124.54 30 E. 7th Street, Suite 3200 Document No. 424367 and feet; thence N42º00’00”W, St. Paul, MN 55101-4919 FURTHER EXCEPTING Land 14.95 feet; thence Pursuant to the Fair Debt as described in Warranty Deed S27º00’00”W, 157.74 feet; Collection Practices Act (15 to MB Development, LLC, datthence southeasterly, along the U.S.C. Section 1692), we are ed May 12, 2005, and recordarc of a curve concave south- required to state that we are ed May 31, 2005, in Volume westerly, the long chord which attempting to collect a debt on 971 on page 934 as Document bears S34º20’33”E, 80.36 feet our client’s behalf and any No. 699388, all property is loand having a radius of 230.00 information we obtain will be cated in Polk County, Wis. feet; thence S65º43’09”W, used for that purpose.

502239 WNAXLP

OFFICE OF THE VILLAGE OF LUCK CLERK TO THE ELECTORS OF THE VILLAGE OF LUCK Notice is hereby given of a recall election to be held in the Village of Luck, on the 22nd day of December 2009, at which the officers named below shall be chosen. The names of the candidates for each office to be voted for, whose nominations have been certified to or filed in this office, are given under the title of the office, each in its proper column, together with the questions submitted to a vote, for a referendum, if any, in the sample ballot below.

INFORMATION TO ELECTORS Upon entering the polling place, an elector shall give his or her name and address before being permitted to vote. Where ballots are distributed to electors, the initials of two inspectors must appear on the ballot. Upon being permitted to vote, the elector shall retire alone to a voting booth and cast his or her ballot except that an elector who is a parent or guardian may be accompanied by the elector’s minor child or minor ward. An election official may inform the elector of the proper manner for casting a vote, but the official may not in any manner advise or indicate a particular voting choice.

Where paper ballots are used, he elector shall make a cross (X) in the square next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the elector shall write in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote. On referendum questions, the elector shall make a cross (X) in the square next to “yes” if in favor of the question, or the elector shall make a cross (X) in the square next to “no” if opposed to the question.

Where touch-screen voting systems are used, the elector shall depress the button next to the name of the candidate of his or her choice for each office for which he or she intends to vote. To vote for a person whose name does not appear on the ballot, the elector shall type in the name of the person of his or her choice in the space provided for a write-in vote. On referendum questions, the elector shall depress the button next to “yes” if in favor of the question, or the elector shall depress the button next to “no” if opposed to the question.

The vote should not be cast in any other manner. If the elector spoils a paper, he or she shall return it to an election official who shall issue another ballot in its place, but not more than three ballots shall be issued to any one elector. If the ballot has not been initialed by two inspectors or is defective in any other way, the elector shall return it to the election official, who shall issue a proper ballot in its place. The elector may spoil a touch screen ballot at the voting station. Not more than five minutes’ time shall be allowed inside a voting booth or machine. Sample ballots or other materials to assist the elector in casting his or her vote may be taken into the booth and copied. The sample ballot shall not be shown to anyone so as to reveal how the ballot is marked.

After an official paper ballot is marked, it shall be folded so the inside marks do not show, but so the printed endorsements and inspectors’ initials on the outside do show. The elector shall leave the booth, deposit the ballot in the ballot box, or deliver the ballot to an inspector for deposit and shall leave the polling place promptly.

After an official Touch Screen ballot is marked, the elector shall leave the polling place promptly.

An elector may select an individual to assist in casting his or her vote if the elector declares to the presiding official that he or she is unable to read, has difficulty reading, writing or understanding English or that due to disability is unable to cast his or her ballot. The selected individual rendering assistance may not be the elector’s employer or an agent of that employer or an officer or agent of a labor organization which represents the elector.

The following is a sample of the official ballots:

Notices

502143 17L WNAXLP

Kathy Hanson, Clerk-Treasurer for the Village of Luck

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 31

Christmas concert at Nelson School

Little Pirates Melanie Lee, Brody Johnson, Aaron Burkman, Madeline Kramer, Trent Rauchbauer, Alexandra Kammeyer and Kaylee Gjonnes performed “I’m a Little Snowman” at the Nelson Primary School Christmas program.

Kindergartner Hanne Johnson showed her singing enthusiasm as she and her classmates performed “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” at the Nelson Primary School’s annual holiday program.

Little Pirates Siji Jolayemi and Renee Tooze listened for the sleigh bells as they performed “I’ve Been Waiting for Christmas” at the Nelson Primary School program.

Nelson Primary School kindergartner Caitlyn Lee played “Oh Christmas Tree” at the school’s annual holiday program on Friday, Dec. 11.

Alexandra Kammeyer showed her best reindeer antlers as she and fellow Little Pirates danced the “Reindeer HokeyPokey” at the Nelson Primary School Christmas program.

Brittany Fickbolm and Johnny Erickson were having fun singing for parents and guests at Nelson Primary School’s program.

Nelson Primary School student Dawson Hennessey got ready for his turn to play a tune at the school’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” themed program on Dec. 11.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

PAGE 32 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Shriner Christmas

A local youngster and Shriner Hospital patient was one of many to receive gifts from the volunteers of the local Wild River Shrine Club last Saturday, Dec. 12.

The Wild River Shrine Club held its annual Christmas party for local Shrine Hospital patients and their families and friends last Saturday at Siren, giving out gifts, cookies and good cheer. No one went away empty-handed as the Shrine members invited all kids to take their pick of assorted gifts made possible through Shriner donations and donations from local businesses.

Shriners Hospitals for Children is an international health-care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing specialty pediatric care, innovative research and outstanding teaching programs. - Photos by Sandy King

Bucket pass If you’re feeling uncomfortable passing by those bell ringers at store entrances, purchase one of these $25 Bucket Pass pins and “pass the bucket guilt The pins are free.” available at Serenity House, operated by the Salvation Army, next door to the government center. - Photo by Mary Stirrat

Local Democrats to hold annual meeting Election of 2010 officers POLK COUNTY - The Polk County Democratic Party will hold its annual meeting and election of officers on Thursday, Dec. 17, at the Village Pizzeria in Amery, which is located at 325

Keller Ave. N. Amery. Phone: 715-2687010.

The event will start at 5:30 p.m. with social hour and dinner. Election of officers will be at 7 p.m.

For more information, please call Jan Kelton-Wolden at 715-327-5637. - submitted

The Shops at the Lodge host Holiday Traditions The Shops at the Lodge in Siren hosted their Holiday Traditions event Saturday, Dec. 12. The Acorn Pantry provided Scandanavian treats including fattigmand, krumkake, spritz, Swedish almond cake, and lefse. Gaye Gunderson and Holly Mangelsen, owner of the Acorn Pantry (photo at left) demonstrated how to make lefse and krumkake. Kathryn Jones helped to prepare lefse dough for the event.

Mike Grotheim prepared the fattigmand and Kim Jewell, manager at the Acorn Pantry, made the Swedish almond cake. Jeanette Laqua (photo at right) and Karen Howe, owner of the Syren General Store, volunteered their time wrapping presents on behalf of Regional Hospice. - Photos submitted

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 1

Currents N

‘Follow the Leader’

O R T H E R N

News and views from the NW Wisconsin community

Lo ca l au t ho r h ig h li gh t s ear ly hi st or y of t he a rea Cris Peterson’s new book focuses on fur trade and its impact

GRANTSBURG – Cris Peterson came up with the idea for her latest book while on a visit with friends at the Forts Folle Avoine near Webster nearly eight years ago. As a University of Minnesota graduate with a degree in history, it’s not surprising that Peterson took interest in the Forts, with its rich historical perspective, and the overall impact it had on the rest of the nation when the fur trade was at its peak. Peterson says she remembers an interpreter from the Ojibwe tribe explaining the history of the Forts, and from that information, her idea for a book was born.

“It was so compelling, it was so interesting, and I thought how can all this have happened here and I don’t know anything about it? And I was a history major in college,” Peterson said.

Her visit to the Forts was also around the time of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks, and after doing more research on the topics of the fur trade she began to realize its impact.

“As I researched, it, Grand Portage, (in northern Minnesota) in the middle of 1700s was the World Trade Center of the time,” Peterson said.

For about 300 years, the fur trade was the biggest business in all of the Western Hemisphere, and Peterson’s new book, “Birchbark Brigade, A Fur Trade History,” sheds light on the impact it had in the early goings of this nation, and much more. The book was published by Boyds Mills Press in the fall, and according to a press release: “The fur trade, set in motion by the discovery of the New World in the fifteenth century, was this continent’s biggest business for over three hundred years. Furs harvested by Ojibwa natives in the north woods ended up on the sleeves and hems of French princesses and Chinese emperors. Felt hats on the heads of every European businessman began as beaver pelts carried in birchbark canoes to trading posts dotting the wilderness – several right here in northwestern Wisconsin. Iron tools, woolen blankets, and calico cloth manufactured in England found their way to wigwams along the remote rivers of North America.

“Peterson’s book is written for ages 1014 but provides a primer on the fur trade for all ages. The history of Colonial-era North America is usually presented to children in terms of settlement – think Jamestown and Plymouth – but this treatment too often ignores the fascinating development and expansion of the fur trade that drove much of the European interest in the continent. Northwestern Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota were the heart of the fur trade during its heyday. In fact, Peterson focuses several chapters of her book on the

Local author Cris Peterson hopes that her new book “Birchbark Brigade, A Fur Trade History” will put history into context through the fur trade. - Photo above by Priscilla Bauer

North West Fur Post in Pine City, Minn., and Forts Folle Avoine, two fur posts that have been reconstructed and are open to visitors as living history museums. The book contains dozens of archival images and maps.”

A grueling process The process of getting her book into a printed format was her most challenging project in comparison to anything she’d done before. Peterson has already authored eight different award-winning books for young children, but never had she done a real history before. She spent countless hours researching and reading, and checked out lengthy books, sometimes four times or more, from the Grantsburg Library.

“You get the whole story without having to read 600 pages,” Peterson said.

Initially, she approached her editor to do a format similar to her other books that feature photo essays. The editor wasn’t thrilled with the idea, and despite having the first couple of chapters written toward her proposal, Peterson finally broke through in the publishing company’s line of books featuring historical content. It was a five-year process from that day forward, and after rewriting the manuscript 10 times, it was finally published.

“I’m much, much more excited about this than all of my other books,” Peterson said. She added that she used to look at writing books as a career, but now it’s more of a hobby than anything else. Her

love of history makes the process that much more enjoyable.

“You’ve got to have something you’re really interested in or you can’t sustain it for that many years,” she said.

Nearly every single detail in Peterson’s book was cited by her and the editor for accuracy, which was another key to the success of getting it published. Although she didn’t do much traveling, she and her husband, Gary, traveled to Grand Portage, as well as Fort William in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Much of her work, however, was strictly research based, and she also had help from local experts.

Patrick Schifferdecker, a curator for the North West Company Fur Post in Pine City, read Peterson’s manuscript twice, to suggest any clarifications that might be needed.

When she was nearly completed with her project, Peterson found the perfect ending to her book through a man named Joe Neubauer, who, as a young boy, discovered the North West Company Fur Post. Neubauer is in his 80s now, but still lives in Pine City, and shared the story of how he discovered the site, while searching for arrowheads and other Indian artifacts.

“It was just this unbelievable ending that I had no idea I was going to find,” Peterson said.

More in the works Peterson has yet another book on the way for the fall of 2010, which is a picture book with photo essays. She has two

others she is working on as well. Although she doesn’t have any future book signings planned, she said she’d gladly sign one if asked. All of her other books can be found at Burnett Dairy in Alpha, but “Birchbark Brigade” can only be found at www.amazon.com.

Most of Peterson’s books go to schools and libraries, and several of them are part of students reading curriculums, but this book is a great read for anyone interested in the history of the fur trade and its overall impact.

“I think people considered it a Canadian story,” Peterson said, adding that she’s not sure many people understand its impact. She says that by the time the U.S. became a country, the fur trade had moved mostly to Canada, but in the early 1600s and 1700s, it was very much a part of Colonial America, and what became the United States. It also digs deep into the dynamics of the relationship between Native Americans, the traders and the entire fur trading system.

“It was an amazing system, and it worked, and they all got along for a long, long time,” Peterson said.

In the end, Peterson hopes readers will be able to use the book as a framework on which to put the history of the country.

“That’s the biggest focus of my book, is try to put the rest of history into context, through the fur trade,” Peterson said. – Marty Seeger with submitted information

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Evangelical Free Church presents live nativity FREDERIC – At the Evangelical Free Church in Frederic, shepherds, wise men, angels, Mary and Joseph gathered to celebrate the birth of the newborn Jesus on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 11 and 12. Live animals, provided by Anita Baker and Tamara and Steve Larson, gathered around the manger for hymns and a story narrated by Dr. Joe Marek. There were three llamas, calves, goats, ponies and a donkey that brought Mary to the manger. People from Frederic and surrounding areas gathered around open fires to watch. - submitted

Shepherd Heather Erickson tried to keep Seven, the famous donkey that brought Mary to the barn, from eating an angel, Shyla Baker.

Dr. Joe Marek narrated the story of this blessed night.

Wise man Terry Palmer offered a little one from the crowd, a chance to hold the rope of Ace, the llama.

Mary, Stephanie Tido, and Joseph, Brent Crandell, watched over Baby Jesus. – Photos submitted

Tamara Larson behind the scenes, provided many of the animals for the show.

Wise man Todd Lundborg and shepherd Zach Williamson waited their turn, with their animals.

Christmas at Frederic Santa Claus visited the Frederic Library Saturday, Dec. 12, and more than 125 children came to see him.

Miss Frederic Marissa Nelson was on hand to help Santa hand out candy to the visitors. – Photo submitted

L E F T: Thompson sister, Jan posed for with Santa.

Carol and her Ramsey, a photo Charley Jensen (on Santa's lap) and Chase Jensen listening to Santa explaining that he had to send his sleigh back to the North Pol so that the elves could do some more repairs and have it ready for Christmas Eve. This was in response to Chase’s question “Santa where is your sleigh?” - Photos submitted

2010 state park admission stickers available ST. CROIX FALLS – The 2010 admission stickers to Wisconsin’s state parks and forests are now available at park and forest offices and Department of Natural Resources service centers.

“If you know someone who enjoys camping, swimming, hiking, biking, skiing or wildlife watching, Wisconsin state park admission stickers make excellent holiday gifts for those who enjoy being active outdoors,” says Kimberly Currie of the DNR Bureau of Parks and Recreation.

“With thousands of miles of trails, hundreds of nature hike opportunities and dozens of beaches, some of the best recreational opportunities and most scenic areas in Wisconsin can be found in our state parks and forests,” Currie says. “Park stickers are also the perfect gift for those just interested in absorbing simple solitude and natural beauty of Wisconsin’s outdoors.”

The sticker provides vehicle admission to 60 state parks and forests across Wisconsin. The cost is $25 for Wisconsin residents or $35 for nonresidents. A family with more than one vehicle registered to the same household may purchase additional state park stickers at half price. A senior citizen annual sticker for $10 is available for Wisconsin residents 65 years of age and older. The stickers are valid from the date of sale through Dec. 31, 2010.

In addition to park and forest offices and DNR service centers, stickers may be purchased online through the nonprofit group. The Friends of Wisconsin State Parks (a small shipping and handling charge is charged for the online option). In St. Croix Falls the admission stickers can be purchased at the Ice Age Center at Interstate Park located just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8 on Hwy. 35.

There are also nature-oriented holiday gifts available at Glacier’s Gifts shop at Interstate Park. Nature field guides and books, wildlife posters, wildlife T-shirts, sweatshirts and other items are offered for sale by the Friends of Interstate Park. A great Christmas gift idea is a limited edition print of the Dalles of the St. Croix River signed and numbered by local artist Mary Pettis.

A paid annual or lifetime membership to the Friends of Interstate Park is also an excellent gift idea. Proceeds from all sales and membership dues benefit the Friends group, a nonprofit organization that helps support the education programs at the park.

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35, just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. For more information call the park at 715-483-3747.- submitted

Holiday concerts set at Frederic FREDERIC -The Frederic 7-12 music department is pleased to announce the schedule of popular holiday concerts. Frederic High School music students will present their concert on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. in the 7-12 performance center.

Performing groups include the high school bell choirs, show choir, concert band and concert choir. Community members are invited to perform with the concert choir on the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Music will be provided.

On Monday, Dec. 21, the music students in grades seven and eight and will present their holiday concert at 7 p.m.

Performing groups include the middle school bell choir, concert choir and band. The concert will conclude with a combined piece and audience sing-along.

Both concerts are free of charge and open to the public.

The high school drama club will be selling baked goods before and after each performance to help with costs of the spring production of “Bye-Bye Birdie.” - with submitted information

Christmas strawberries

by Frances L. Ouellette “This year there will be enough strawberries for Christmas breakfast,” and there were, believe me, there were!

Twenty-five years of family history made those words so memorable that Christmas in 1978. In 1953 as the mother of three little boys, 3, 5 and 6 years old, I was trying to figure out a way to impress on them the true meaning of Christmas. I decided that for

Northwest Regional Writers The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-349-2761 for more information about the organization.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Even good dogs have bad days.

enough energy to pull me at the end of the leash and chase squirrels and then—sudMilo and I were walking in the park and denly—there was a deer! he was straining on the leash. He knows he His overheated puppy brain shut down is supposed to walk by my side, but he was and he lunged straight for the deer without fixated on squirrels and could only concengiving me a moment to react. The leash, trate for a moment before the next irrewhich was wrapped a couple of times sistible attraction appeared. “More around my wrist, ripped loose, taking my squirrels!” It was too much. watch with it, and Milo was off like a shot I was crabby. I had spent the day moving in his doomed effort to catch and eat that firewood. After three and a half years away in a single gulp. doe from my house, my woodpile had turned I picked up my broken watch and stepped into a rotting condominium for centipedes. quietly behind a large oak tree and stood I felt bad that my woodpile was overrun very still. I knew what would happen. In with centipedes and today that woodpile moments I heard Milo stop running. It was seemed like a good representation of my very still. I could not see him, but could algeneral state of affairs.

Letters from most feel his eyes scanning the forest.

For most of my life, I labored under the Then, faster than he chased the deer, I impression that I was running the show. I heard his feet thundering back over the thought that the direction I chose in my life path. He realized I was gone and raced back was utterly up to me and, if I didn’t control over the path we had come. He raced so fast the whole universe, I certainly managed my little that he did not even see me standing silently behind corner of it.

When my husband left, this perfectly organized lit- the tree. And he was gone.

I walked back the way we came. A few minutes tle life of mine tumbled over. Now I am trying something different. I am trying to understand what it is I later, at the top of the hill, I saw a park ranger. She am supposed to do, to follow rather than lead. On a was holding Milo. He saw me and raced over, good day, I feel like I am listening to God. I am re- smashed his head into me, fell over and lay there, sponsive to the universe. On a bad day, I feel like I belly upward, on top of my feet panting.

“I take it this is your dog,” the ranger said. am wasting my time and letting my wood rot. Today “Yes, that would be my dog,” I answered. was a bad day.

We walked home side by side. Milo sensed that I was dirty and already a bit tired before we started our walk. I wanted a no-nonsense walk in the park obedience lessons were over for the day.

I can’t be angry with Milo. We will both have good without puppy drama. Milo was a one-dog, threeand bad days. We will occasionally lose our heads, ring circus.

I was trying to provide positive reinforcement but we’re getting better. We are both learning to walk when Milo was not tugging on the leash (which was without straining on the leash.

Till next time, almost never) and this was making me crabbier yet.

— Carrie Milo was unconcerned because he had more than

Carrie Classon

Home

Sharing the spirit of Christmas BURNETT/POLK COUNlected in the Gifts from the TIES – Ever since 1993, the St. Heart drive would ever reach a Croix Chippewa of Wisconsin child. Area Moose clubs, Lions have helped to bring Christmas clubs, school organizations, cheer to thousands of children civic clubs and charities mobithrough their Gifts from the lize to make sure that every Heart toy drive. During this child in their community reyear’s drive, co-hosted by the ceives a toy or gift for ChristSt. Croix Casino in Turtle Lake, mas. the Hole in the Wall Casino in “We’re privileged to be a Danbury, and the Little Turtle part of such a worthwhile comHertel Express Casino in Hermunity effort,” said Leroy tel, more than 3,500 guests doBuck, St. Croix Casino general nated toys. manager. “We hope that in Sharing the Christmas spirit Balsam Lake: Alberta Olson (l) of Polk some small way we can lighten through the Gifts from the County’s Operation Christmas received the load of all of the commuHeart toy drive is a cooperative toys from the St. Croix Casinos Gifts from nity volunteers who work toeffort. Casino guests, who do- the Heart toy drive. She is pictured with gether to bring Christmas nate the toys, the casinos, which casino deliveryman Mike Rogers. – Photo cheer to area families.” give $5 to each guest donating submitted St. Croix Casino personnel a toy, and countless casino staff, delivered the donated toys to who box and deliver toys, all 14 charities in Barron, Burnett, work together to make the toy drive a success.

Polk, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix and Washburn counties But the ultimate success of the casinos’ toy drive de- on Dec. 7 and 8. Over the past 17 years, more then pends on the most important people of all—the staff 85,000 toys have been collected and distributed to and volunteers at northwestern Wisconsin charities. charities in northwestern Wisconsin through the Gifts Without their dedicated service, none of the toys col- from the Heart toy drive. - submitted

Writer’s Corner Christmas breakfast we would include an angel food cake as a celebration of Jesus’ birthday. To make it a special treat we served it with strawberries and whipped cream.

The next year the boys asked if we were going to have birthday cake again.

Of course I said we would. Ever since, our breakfast has included angel food cake, always with strawberries and whipped cream.

As the family grew and grew and grew to six sons and two daughters and the money seemed to shrink and shrink and shrink, we kept up the tradition.

When the boys became teenagers, the number of cakes grew to two, but the

size of the strawberry servings seemed to shrink and shrink and shrink, only because the pieces of cake were twice as large and the budget couldn’t handle many more berries. “Ma never has enough berries,” became a part of the routine.

Too soon the children grew up and settled in their own homes, some with wives and families.

Which brings us to Christmas 1978.

No. 4 son and No. 6 son, both bachelors, were sharing a large farmhouse. I had moved to a smaller place, so they graciously offered to have Christmas breakfast at their house. That is, if Ma would bring the cakes. The rest of the families would bring food too. They would furnish the strawberries and cream, coffee and wine –“and this year there will be enough strawberries!”

The family had now grown to 18 people, including in-laws, grandchildren and great-grandma. Quite a houseful!

Well, guess what? They bought 16 pounds of frozen berries and eight large cartons of Cool Whip, which had taken over from real cream—a lot easier and almost as good as cream.

Yes, there was enough for Christmas—and Dec. 26, 27, 28, 29 and on into the new year. But like the rest of the family, they were looking forward to Christmas breakfast at “Ma’s” again next year, and yes, there were enough berries for all. But only for one day.

PoCo Penners The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. in the Conference room, next to the restroom, in the Justice Center in Balsam Lake. Contact Brenda Mayer at 715485-3571 or Iris Holm 715-294-3174 for more information.

Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on one side only of 8 -1/2 x 11 white paper, leaving a minimum of 1-inch margins all around. Handwritten submissions will not be accepted. Submissions should be no more than 800 words.

Submissions may be delivered to The Leader’s offices in Frederic or Siren, mailed to Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837 or e-mailed to the-leader@centurytel.net. We prefer e-mailed copy.

If hand-delivered or mailed, please write "Writers’ Corner" somewhere on the front of the envelope. If e-mailed, please use "Writers’ Corner" as the subject and include the submission as body text of the e-mail. No attachments, please. Your submission to Writers’ Corner grants The Leader one-time rights to publish the item in the weekly newspaper. The author retains the copyright and all future publication rights. The Leader may edit submissions for grammar and punctuation, clarity and length. If you have any questions about this feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Collected by

Russ Hanson

River Road

Ramblings Snow business

by Russ Hanson The First Snowfall

by James Russell Lowell The snow had begun in the gloaming, And busily all the night Had been heaping field and highway With a silence deep and white.

Every pine and fir and hemlock Wore ermine too dear for an earl, And the poorest twig on the elm-tree Was ridged inch deep with pearl.

Dad liked to recite poetry he had learned in grade school back in the 1920s. At the first snowfall he remembered Lowell’s beautiful poem and could say several verses. I like it and “Snow Bound” by Whittier. Both were on my mind as I sat with my broken leg, looking out at the blizzard raging here in Pine Island last week, me raging at my impotence in the face of the storm.

Tuesday, Dec. 9, light snow started falling in the morning. The new snow fell as delicate flakes that sparkled in the muted sunlight. By afternoon, a few inches of fluffy snow had fallen; the northwest wind picked up and the TV picture shrunk with early school closings and evening events canceled.

Snow trapped by the woods to the north and the unpicked cornfield to the west broke through and began to swirl into drifts around the house. Birds flocked to the feeder, and deer moved into the corn. Neighbors came home from work early and everyone hunkered down for the two-day blizzard forecasted by Rochester meteorologists.

Scott was working in the Twin Cities and made it home about 9 p.m. “Not too bad coming south on Hwy. 52 from the Cities; averaged about 45 mph until Cannon Falls and then it dropped to 25.” Hwy. 52 skirts the Great Plains to the west, where a snowflake that falls in the Dakotas will surely come tumbling across the road some time later.

Next morning the snow was drifted 2 feet high against the patio door and 3 feet on the west window. In the calm woods an even foot, in the windy areas only a few inches interspersed with drifts several feet deep wherever a tree, flower bed or shrub acted as a snow fence.

Deep snow and giant snowdrifts are a welcome challenge for natives of Wisconsin and Minnesota; winter has thrown the gauntlet and we thrill at the chance to rise to the test. We want snow to be an inconvenience, not a showstopper. We must start strongly at the first snowfall or we will surely never make it through the rest of the winter.

Not only do we want to clear our way to the mailbox and garage, we want to do it with style, flair and comfort. Life nowadays is so sanitized, safe and comfortable, and we are such small cogs in our work world that we have lost our sense of doing heroic deeds. Blizzards give us untold opportunity to slay dragons, to chase the saber-toothed tigers out of the cave, and to rescue damsels in distress.

We buy a 20-horsepower two-stage snowblower that not only can clear the driveway, but blow the unwanted snow clear across the property line. Maybe we buy a fully adjustable three-way snowplow for our four-wheel-drive truck or four-wheeler or boomer tractor.

Then we go out into the teeth of the bliz-

Scott shows Margo how to use the snowblower after last week’s blizzard at Pine Island. Russ, laid up with his broken leg, uses walkie talkies to direct everything from inside the house from where he took this picture. – Photo submitted zard and fight the good fight; clear the driveway and the ditches; then the sidewalk and finally the trail back in the woods to the woodpile; taking it right down to the bare ground.

We take the truck out on the road to go into town and check things out before the snowplow comes through: “Better get an extra can of gas.” If we’re lucky, there are a few cars stuck in a snowdrift on the way, so we can hook on our new nylon tow rope and rescue them, offering them a cup of coffee from our thermos for the pure joy of being able to help out and to show we are ready for whatever winter throws at us!

“Glad I came along and could help,” we say.

At town, we stop for more coffee and have one with the other guys, and compare this storm to the notable ones we remember. “Not as bad as the Halloween storm back in ’91. More wind then.” Then we head back on the road and plow a few of the neighbors’ driveways before heading home to finish our own yard.

My snowplowing setup here in Pine Island is a 1948 WD Allis Chalmers farm tractor with a loader and snow bucket. I bought it at an auction 25 years ago for $575, with a fresh engine overhaul and in good shape for that age and price. I added a Paulson loader and the snow bucket. I also converted it to 12 volts so it would start better in the cold winter weather.

One back tire has a slow leak so when it is time to start the tractor in very cold weather I have a set of steps: 1. The night before I hook up the battery charger to “top off” the charge.

2. Plug in a magnetic heater that I stick to the oil pan and warm the oil overnight.

3. In the morning I fill my portable air tank from the compressor and carry it to the back shed where the tractor stays and fill the tire with air. It takes two tanks.

4. Make sure that the gas tank is at least half full.

5. Take out the brass plug in the manifold and shoot a little starting fluid into the manifold.

6. Climb aboard, turn on the switch, hold out the choke and pull the starter.

If it is 10 degrees or above, it starts fine.

Under that and who knows! I might have to wait an hour and try again because I flooded it or ran the battery down cranking.

Once it gets going, the 6-foot-wide snow bucket works as a snowplow to push up and down the driveway a few times and then to bucket out the main turnaround area in the yard. Once the WD is warmed up and running smoothly, I head over to Nancy’s place a quarter mile to the west and do her driveway and yard too. Her husband is an Army man and has been in

Afghanistan and then Iraq and is in Washington now, soon to go back to Afghanistan again.

I run the tractor with one back tire having a big, aggressive, farmer’s tire chain on it. Since I have to go down the blacktop road to the neighbors, I run the chained tire off the blacktop and the other one on. It turns out that one chain is probably 10 times more effective than no chains, and one chain is sufficient when you can brake the chainless wheel.

I might include a single run up and around the loop and back out of the neighbor across the road if his driveway is drifted. It is long and high across a field with lots of ditch space that normally blows free. By the time I am back home I will have been out for two hours.

This year, being laid up, I talked driveway plowing over with Scott and Margo. We agreed that it probably was too complicated to try to use the tractor for him and Margo, especially since its newest problem is the gas line plugging up with rust from the tank. “Well, we can ask our farmer neighbor, Dennis, to plow it on the way past as he goes to plow out the other farm where his cattle are.” “But he usually is a day or two after the storm to come around.”

“Maybe we should get a snowblower.”

We shopped Consumer Reports and online reviews and finally decided to buy a two-stage Toro through a sale at Sears that had power drive, heated handles, electric start, 357 cc., drift breaker, joystick snow chute control, six forward speeds and two in reverse, 30-inch unit.

We didn’t get the optional cab, GPS, chains, studs or small-screen TV yet.

Wednesday morning, Scott studied the manual, checked the oil, added gas and started it up at first light for an hour of “bliss” blowing the foot of snow and plowing through the drifts. He shot the snow up in the air where the 30-40 mile per hour wind picked it up and sent it on the four miles to downtown Pine Island.

The county snowplow didn’t come through until 9:20 a.m. Last year it was always through by 8 a.m. This year, the county is teaching us a lesson by being late on the first snow; that if we don’t tolerate a property tax increase, we are going to have poor services. Presidential wanna-be Gov. Pawlenty has singlehandedly cut so much state money to local governments that they are all in desperate straits.

Scott had a Rochester appointment for 9:30 so headed out at 8:30 through the unplowed roads. He got as far as our neighbor, farmer Dennis. His yard is thick with pine trees along the road that cause huge snowdrifts. Several fourwheel-drive trucks had bulled through, but Scott had the little Hyundai, a very persistent car in snow with front-wheel

drive and good tires, but no match for the drift.

Along came a husky, high, fourwheel-drive truck. “I’ll hook on to you and pull you into Pine Island (a mile ahead).” And as quick as he said it, he had Scott into the plowed streets of town. “Hwy. 52 is fine—snowplows been running all night. I been out myself since 2 a.m. just driving around and pulling people out of the ditches and drifts,” the driver said with a smile, “makes me a little money to supplement my unemployment.” Scott had only a five in cash and gave it to him and apologized for not having more. “That’s fine,” he said, “gotta help your neighbors out when you can!” and headed out to see who else was stuck along the unplowed roads. People like him are the folks who make America work!

Back in 1950, when I was a young shaver, we had a huge storm up at Cushing that blocked our narrow ditchless roads completely for a few days.

Then Billy Jensen* filled his milk truck on the open routes. Fully loaded and shifted down, engine roaring, he headed in off Hwy. 87 west on Evergreen. The big truck with its high Vplow roared around Bass Lake down the hill past Nelsons' and across the flat to the tee straight ahead. He backed up and this time swung around the corner west up to our driveway and swept up it and around the pump shed and cleared right up to the milk house.

“That works better than the Sterling truck,” commented Dad as he helped load several days of milk. “Hard to beat a full load of milk cans when it comes to traction,” stated Billy with a smile. He made a few swipes to clear the yard on the way out and widened his path back to Hwy. 87, leaving us plowed out to the east and our milk back flowing to the creamery.

Evergreen Avenue to the west of our house dropped down to the Noyes farm through a narrow, deep cut in a hill. It was drifted full to the top. Sterling plowed to Noyes’ driveway in from the west, but left the cut. “We’ll get a crew together Friday and try to break through,” said Chris Christenson from the town board. Friday morning the town truck and road grader and several cars all gathered on the top of the hill east of the drift. “Run the truck into the drift, and we use the grader to pull it back out,” was the consensus on how to proceed. A half-dozen men with shovels were already attacking the drift.

Marvin and I begged Mom, who finally let us walk over and stand far above the activity on the huge bank watching over everything.

For the next three hours the truck slammed into the drift, making a few feet of progress and throwing the snow up like a geyser each time. Floyd Harris hooked on with the grader and pulled the truck back out for the next run and the men shoveled heroically between each run.

Finally the truck broke through, barely making it through the banks far higher than the cab and box on either side. Then the road grader put down its front plow, blade and wing and started widening it out. Pass after pass; higher and higher the banks grew as the road finally emerged, passable again after a week. Marvin had to go back to school. We could again take the ‘38 Chev down to the River Road and visit Grandpa and Grandma.

That was the last time we were snowbound on Evergreen. Sterling got a better truck next year and added wide ditches to the road cut so snow had to behave and stay where it belonged.

Send your stories to share to riveroadrambler@gmail.com, call 507-356-8877, or 15937 Co. 27 Blvd., Pine Island, MN 55963. * I can’t always remember names, so which of our dozens of milk haulers was the hero of this story is uncertain.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Christmas memories Christmas memories are like jigsaw puzzles, made up of bits and pieces and these bits and pieces are different for every person in the whole world. Fragments in time, forever part of us.

For me, as a child, it was the Abrahamzon Christmas tree, always in the same comer of the living room.

When I was grown up and moving around the country a great deal, my father asked if I’d like to have the Christmas ornaments and I said no, because they’d just be something more to pack. He discarded them or gave them away or donated them to the Goodwill. Now I wish I hadn’t been hasty. I wish those ornaments were upstairs in the closet so I could take them out every December and fondly remember as I hang them on our own tree.

There was the fragile, pointed top, the glass birds that clipped onto boughs, with tails of stiff fibers, the round loops of tiny glass balls to hang on branches, the glass trumpets that really blew, the jolly Santa with the paint coming off from all the handling through the years, icicles like tiny springs, paper ornaments made in grade school, glass ornaments with recessed sides with scenes within.

Another vivid memory is of going caroling in college days, when we’d make our own Old English lanterns from heavy black tagboard with cutout windows for the candle to shine through. We’d string out along the sidewalk as we emerged from our dormitories on a campus in Milwaukee and visit nearby hospitals and the orphanage.

It’s the orphanage I especially remember. As we stood in the great lower hall, looking up, the children in their nightgowns and pajamas would gather in the upper hall, looking down at us over the railing. All those children who weren’t going home, while we were all anticipating going home within the next few days for holiday break. We’d sing the old familiar carols, and one that went, “God bless the master of this house with happiness betide…”

After I was married there’s the Christmas I had my 5-year-old son, Drew, by the hand, and we walked home along the sidewalks of Ashland. It was snowing, a soft gentle snow, a Christmas card night, all fresh and sparkly. And there was Santa, on a balcony of the local power and electric company, throwing peanuts down to the children gathered below. I was as delighted as my son.

There was the Christmas when another son, Tim, was 4 or 5 years old and I took him to see the local Santa Claus in Lewis. Santa asked in a gruff voice, “Have you been a good boy this year?” and Tim looked at me and his lip quivered ever so slightly as he faltered, “Not ... very.” And I caught him up in my arms to give him a big hug as my heart caught in my throat.

And there was the Christmas when another son, Tod, was in the hospital following an appendectomy and our family circle was not complete. We divided our time between home and the hospital. His hospi-

Bernice

Behind the Signpost

tal bed was festooned with paper chains and paper snowflakes and another patient conducted a Sunday school class just for him.

There was another Christmas, too, when our family circle was smaller, the year my father-in-law died just before Christmas and the funeral was set for Dec. 26. What a different Christmas Eve and Day that was without him, with the awareness of his death in each of us, trying to make the holidays what they always were, when they could never be quite the same again.

One Christmas Eve, when everyone else was already headed for bed, I was still wide awake, so I put on my coat and boots and went outside into the starry night. With the yard light shining on the fresh snow, it was almost like having a field of diamonds at my feet. I looked beyond to the village below our hill with the twinkling lights and for a time, sat on the swing, breathing in the beauty of the night, thinking it was indeed possible on such a night as this for a savior to be born.

I recall all those Christmas programs when I was superintendent of the Sunday school at church. One time. I recall in particular, we had gone over the innkeeper scene many times. “No, try it again. Knock and ask if there is any room in the inn.” Joseph obediently knocked, and the impatient innkeeper shouted, “What do ya want NOW?” Rehearsal ended, as we all doubled up in laughter.

Christmas is lights, pine fragrance, candle wax, Swedish S’s and fragile rosettes, fruit cake and ribbon candy, nuts in the shell, bells and music, and always, memories flood the mind.

Message from Harvey Stower The other day I found an old church bulletin dated Dec. 12, 1982, when Pastor Ed Zager was in charge of the Grantsburg-Siren-Lewis United Methodist churches.

On this particular Sunday Pastor Harvey Stower was in charge of the sermon titled, “Our Gift Giving.”

As usual I took notes on Harvey’s message: “Jesus can be born anew in us each year. The question is what shall we give the baby? Give but give over to Christ the King. Not so much an altar call but a manger call.

We are called to give over. What we do to each other or how we measure up as Christians.

In Act I of a Moss Hart play, what it was like growing up poor. We are called to give to each other, not so much what is on the pushcart, but what is in our hearts.

He quoted Leo Buscaglia on the subject of love. Let someone know you love them; that you thank them on this journey to Bethlehem.

(Note:) You can see why I find it hard to throw things away. The above is a real treasure although Harvey is no longer with us, except in good memories).

Until next week, Bernice

New tractor provides learning insight NEW RICHMOND – Textbooks and computers aren’t the only teaching tools at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College; a new tool of choice is a computerized tractor. This fall the college purchased, with the help of WITC advisory committee member Roger Link of Link Implement, Ridgeland, a new model McCormick XTX 165 tractor. Its computerized controls help students learn to troubleshoot and test and recalibrate tractors as part of their updated curriculum.

“This tractor in particular will help students’ training in up-to-date tractor diagnostics,” says WITC instructor Lee Fiedler. “Having a computerized tractor gives students the experience they need to repair today’s ag equipment.”

Both years of study in WITC’s agriculture power and equipment technician program will benefit from this latest tool of study. From electronics to hydraulics and everything in between, students will comb this tractor, learning what makes it run efficiently. Instructors will install “bad” parts in the tractor so that students learn how to diagnose and fix the problem.

“This effective teaching tool couldn’t have happened without the assistance of Roger Link, one of our advisory committee members,” says Scott Horsman, WITC program instructor. “He worked with McCormick to work out a fair price the college could afford.” Link often hires WITC graduates and, as a member of the advisory committee, wants to help recruit and educate

students with the most current technology.

WITC’s agriculture power and equipment technician program is a two-year, comprehensive, hands-on program that teaches students the many aspects of analyzing and repairing equipment associated with agriculture. More information about the program is available at the New Richmond campus or by calling 715-246-6561. - submitted

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included carrots at 2 lbs. for 19¢, Rome Beauty baking apples at 2 lbs. for 25¢, coffee at 2 lbs. for $1.29 and liquid detergent, Coral, at 48¢.-The Siren senior class presented a play Dec. 10. Its title was “Ten O’clock Scholar,” with teacher Pearle Rockman directing.Jensen Furniture Store, Luck, had a sale on very comfortable padded chairs.-Obituaries included Esther Holquist, Michael Bauer, Viggo Germansen and Leonard Noyes.-Doris Day and Rock Hudson were starring in the film “Pillow Talk” at the Auditorium Theatre, St. Croix Falls.-Elmer Johnson, Frederic, had Maytag automatic and wringer washers for sale in Frederic.-Free coffee and donuts were served Dec. 5, at the Range Co-op Mill.-Two full broadsheets of specials at the Ben Franklin Store, Frederic.-Bids were needed for six new grade rooms at Frederic.Robert Behling will head Polk County Sales Committee in Balsam Lake.-The quarterly meeting for Frederic Farmers Union was set for Dec. 12.-The Frederic High School choir planned to present a program for the public.-Wisconsin jobless payments totaled $3,035,700 in November.-Additional specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included 4 lbs. of lard for 49¢ and sliced bacon at 4 lbs. for $1.

40 Years Ago Pages and pages of Christmas greetings! Do you remember Doug Nyren’s Barber Shop, Siren? Chipman’s Superette, Danbury? K.J.’s Auto Supply, Siren? Siren Beauty Shop (Lola and Sylvia), Siren?

Grantsburg Co-op Store? Jim’s Mileage (Jim and Helen Gatten), Danbury? How about Farmer’s State Bank, Frederic? Ecklin Ford Equipment, St. Croix Falls? Nyberg and Kallberg Lumber Company, Siren?”-A young snowmobiler suffered a bad leg fracture.-The Frederic Farmers Union scheduled a welding clinic for Jan. 8.-Motorists were losing control on icy roads.-Playing at the Frederic Theatre was the movie, “Three Into Two Won’t Go,” starring Rod Steiger, Claire Bloom and Judy Geeson.-It was said the only snowmobile with a two-year track warranty was Moto-Ski, sold at Red Arrow Sports, SCF.Kunze’s Corner was a popular sports column.-Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, was oysters at 39¢ for an 8-oz. tin, Hi-C orange drink at 29¢ for a 40-oz. tin, Sunshine snack crackers at 3 pkgs. for $1 and 2 lbs. seedless raisins at 59¢.-LeRoy Sauerbrey’s picture was in the ads for Frederic Farmers Co-op Exchange.-A barn-building clinic was held at Siren.The Siren Cub Scouts enjoyed a swimming-pool party at the Gene Hunt swimming pool, Siren. Mrs. James Benson, assistant den mother, was in charge of the event.

20 Years Ago Obituaries included Robert Harold, Dale Sandberg, Eugene Sanborn, Carol Johnson, Elizabeth Zimmer, Susie Nelson, Quentin Kallberg, Marvel Schauls, Agnes Dubuque, Jack Larrabee and Wilmont Giles.-A headline proclaimed, “Landlords cannot refuse heat.-Rural bankers reported mixed farm recovery from 1988 drought.-Milk prices were at record high at $14.40 per hundred weight.-A sheep production seminar was offered at New Richmond.-Some state highways will get slower winter care.-Burnett board approved 6-percent levy increase for 1990.-Many services were added at West 70 Sales complex west of Grantsburg.-The Frederic School Board planned for another try for a high school building.-Insurance was mandatory for Polk County underground tanks.-Pictured was a 1920 Frederic football team including Fred Lindh, Ralph Doke, Ray Lundeen, Joe Kopecky, George McCormack, Harold Ashcroft, Bill Amundson, Elmer Larson, Harry Hoover and Clarence Zahn.-Leona Cummings was featured in an Eye-to-Eye column, telling about her presenting programs and stimulating memories of yesteryear.-Additional obituaries were Hunter Asper, Susan Blackburn and Howard Roberts.-A plane went down in Shell Lake, killing three persons.-It was said government programs often lack logic.

Brought to you by

OLSEN & SON DRUG L to R: Scott Horsman, WITC instructor; Roger Link of Link Implement, Ridgeland; Nancy Cerritos, WITC academic dean; Lee Fiedler, WITC instructor.

– Photo submitted

Serving the community since 1882

24106 St., Hwy. 35 • Siren, WI Phone 715-349-2221 • Fax 715-349-7350

Tom Moore, Owner Brian Johnson - RPh

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER

Hi, everybody! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. I’ve just come in from my morning walk, and I’ve cleared the cobwebs from my sleepy head. It snowed again! My brother and I like the snow, and today we got a special treat. On our way back home, our neighbor met us and gave us each a nice, warm muffler to wear around our necks. They’re blaze orange, too, so we shouldn’t become a woodland casualty.

That was awfully nice of him, but I felt like I should have loaned mine to my mom. I’ve got plenty of fur on my face, but she doesn’t, and her face looked like a tomato by the time we got back home. At least it was red from being cold, and not because she was mad at us - like yesterday. We got into some hot water because we did something we’re not supposed to do: venture out on the road without her. We don’t, usually, but there were deer bones out there that we had not rounded up and brought home yet. When she appeared at the end of the driveway with her hand pointing toward the house, we

knew we were in big trouble. My brother ran straight past us and back up the driveway (smart), while I got a good talking-to walking next to my mom. I never realized how long our driveway is until I got an earful a-l-l-l-l the way back to the house.

Sheesh! I guess we’ll never do that again!

As of Wednesday, the Care2 contest we trying to win came YAPpenings were to a close. We didn’t win the $10,000, but we placed in the top 100! People wrote so many nice things about our shelter and the people that work here, that it nearly made me cry. Thanks so much to all of you that voted for HSBC and for all of your kind words. They sure gave my friends a nice

Blacky Shelter

boost, and me too. The staff and volunteers work really hard to make sure that all of my furry pals are well cared for and loved while they wait to be adopted, and it means a lot when people recognize that.

On to the latest in the adoption department, I was glad to hear that four of my buddies were slated to go home this week. Fritz the cat is in foster care with the possibility of a permanent home. A lot of it is dependent on his mousing skills. If I know Fritz, he would love to chase mice and bat them around - I’ve seen his paws in action at the shelter going after peoples’ heads! He’s a funny cat. Crosby, the Chessy mix, is going home, as are kittens Gabby and Puddin.

Three cats out, one cat in. Grant is a domestic longhair cat, about 3, who was picked up as a stray in Grantsburg. He is gray with long, plush hair - and he’s very friendly! No new dogs, but my friends Peanut, Maggie Sue and Timmy are still patiently waiting.

Winter can be long and boring, and these three would love visitors, or better yet, some-

one to take them home.

I have not been given a list of needed items again this week, so I guess that means that, for now at least, we are good on supplies. Some nice people brought in all kinds of goodies for the cats, including a tower, and our steadfast friend, Jim, donated a truckload of cat litter. Wow! The only thing that would beat that, in my world, would be a truckload of bones. Only please bring them to the house and not leave them alongside the road. I don’t like getting in trouble.

Today, though, all’s right with the world again, and I must be back in my mom’s good graces: I got a great, big body hug this morning.

She says I’m like hugging a tree trunk, only my bark is on the inside.

Oh, brother.

Take care, everyone, and I’ll see you here next week.

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org, 715-866-4096.

Siren Senior Center The weather slowed us down a little this week, with nasty weather beginning on Tuesday and keeping the center closed all day Wednesday for our 500 players.

Had a good turnout for dime Bingo on Tuesday and our pool players were enjoying their afternoon game on Thursday. Friday, the Spade players were down a little with only 19 people braving the cold to play. Hopefully this next week Mother Nature will give us break on the weather so we can all be out and about as usual.

The noon diners were again eligible for a

door prize from the nutrition staff if their name was drawn. On Monday, Gerry Vogel, Tuesday, Roy Clark, Thursday, Darleen Groves and Friday, Millie Hartshorn were the lucky winners. We also celebrated with Roy Clark on Tuesday, which was also his birthday, with a birthday cake that CeCe purchased for him.

Happy birthday also to Al Carlson who turned 88 this year.

Gratitude to Don Brand who ventured out on Thursday morning early to shovel the center’s sidewalk.

Also we would like to thank the Holiday Sta-

Barb Munger

tion for the donations of Dove candy bars, shortbread cookies and chocolate goldfish for the in-house diners and meals-on-wheels diners to enjoy.

Gratitude is extended to Lolly McMonigal and Mickey Schauer for treats and movies that they brought to share with the center.

Our new card holder (dresser) was delivered this week by Ralph Severson. Now the big task is to get all the cards back in order so it will be easy for customers to find what they want.

Winners at Spades on Friday were Gerry

Vogel, Nona Severson, Millie Hartshorn, Darleen Groves and Carl Link. Sharon Link, Marie Van Guilder and Marge Nyberg provided the treats.

Remember the coffeepot is always on and some good snacking foods so please stop in and say hello.

The center is open daily from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dime Bingo is played on Tuesday, Cribbage, Wednesday morning, 500 Wednesday afternoon and Spades on Friday. Come and check us out.

Until next week stay warm and healthy.

Siren

349-2964 How did you all fair with the first snowstorm of the season, one of the many the TV weathermen seem to think we are in for this year?

One is enough for me. I, for one, always go into the same mode my mom did years back when I was growing up. She seemed to be content when she could draw the family safely inside. She then put the large soup kettle to cooking, made homemade rolls to feed the family and took it all in stride. Actually, if you don’t have to travel, a storm can look

rather peaceful in my opinion. I know not so for those of you who have to be and about, or the not so lucky ones who clean up the mess.

A new-fallen snow does make things look cleaner and fresher. Those who snowmobile I’m sure are more than ready to get out in it once again.

Don’t forget the Moose Lodge has their Christmas party this Saturday for the little ones from 2 – 4 p.m. This is the Moose Lodge, north of Siren on Hwy. 70. This event

Bev Beckmark

is open to all the area kiddies.

The Siren Methodist Church Sunday school put on program during the service.

Gratitude is extended to the Sunday school staff, Mary Yambrick and Cherie Fisher, plus the kids. You did a great job guys.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Sandra E. McPhetters who passed away Dec. 3.

A good-size group of the United Methodist Church ladies enjoyed a luncheon get-together at Madden’s last Saturday for their an-

nual United Methodist Women Christmas party. Gifts were brought for the area children, Mary Jo Bierman played Christmas carols for a sing-along and prizes were awarded for some of the ladies.

Congratulations to middle-schooler Mercedes Moody and high-schooler Eric Keith for being chosen Siren Schools students of the week.

Birth announcements Born at Burnett Medical Center:

A boy, Gage Michael Blatt, was born Dec. 10, 2009, to Michael and Tanya Blatt, Web-

Fran Krause

ster. Gage weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz. and was 20 inches long. Gage has a brother, Tristen.

Grandparents are Sherry Bilgan of Forest

Orange

Natalie and Bud Flagstad, Brianna and Brendon, and John and Reeny Neinstadt spent the weekend with Sandy and Lamar Johnson and family at Cadott to celebrate their family Christmas. On Sunday they had brunch at Fanny Hill restaurant.

Betty Kulbeck and Elaine Paulus had supper with Jack and Jeri Witzany Sunday evening.

Jack and LaVonne O’Brien joind O’Brien relatives for Christmas lunch at Forest Lake, Minn., on Tuesday. On Friday, LaVonne attended Al Blume’s funeral at Spooner. He was the former owner of Yellow River Inn.

LaVonne O'Brien

Teresa Childers spent Saturday with her folks.

Fran Krause attended the Sarah Circle at Ethel Daniels’ on Wednesday afternoon.

Some of the Orange 4-H club members rang the Salvation Army bells at Wayne's Foods Plus Saturday morning. They met at Cedarwood Manor for a potluck meal followed with meeting, gift exchange and Christmas caroling to residents at the manor.

On Sunday afternoon Marge and Jim Olson and Fran Krause enjoyed the Bethany Lutheran Church Sunday school Christmas program and potluck meal.

St. Croix Valley Senior Center

by Carol VanBuskirk

Again, news from the past week is rather skimpy. Tuesday started with a group of exercise persons showing a few new moves and motions to each other. We are compiling a notebook with everyone’s thoughts and ideas to reference. Afterward the favorite card game of Skip-Bo was enjoyed. We enjoyed the visit from Nona Severson of Siren who stopped by to see the center. She liked it so much that she joined in the last two Skip-Bo games and stayed for afternoon 500 cards. Twenty four people enjoyed the 500 cards and Marian Edler, Don Benson, John Brown and Vern Lundstrom were top winners. Six people were in the back playing Dominos and winners were Delores Benson, George Meixner and Don Anderson.

Due to the first winter snowstorm and wind of the winter season the center was closed on Wednesday. The monthly birthday party that had been scheduled for Wednesday

noon will be rescheduled.

Many from the senior center enjoyed going to the Festival Theater on Thursday afternoon to see “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” Several local actors and actresses along with out-of-town participants mixed their talents to give a terrific performance.

This week’s activities, barring any weather involvement, will include the monthly potluck at 12:30 p.m. and general meeting to follow on Thursday.

Bridge and Bingo will be played on Friday with a Christmas ham being given to the winner of the last game, which will be a coverall game.

Looking ahead to the following week, the center will be closed on Christmas Eve Day and also on Christmas Day. This will allow everyone to spend time with their families.

Here is hoping each and everyone who reads this article will enjoy the holiday as much as I do.

Lake, Minn., Patty Blatt of Webster and Kevin Blatt of Blaine, Minn. Great-grandparents are Richard and Shirlee Johnson of Danbury and Edna Canfield of Webster.

•••

Born at SCRMC:

A boy, Cassius Quinn Borchert, born Dec. 2, 2009, to Alyssa Notermann and Casey Borchert, Osceola. Cassius weighed 8 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A boy, Cole David Retz, born Dec. 3, 2009, to Amy Olsen and Derrick Retz, Boyceville.

Cole weighed 8 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A girl, Briella Rose Fedje, born Dec. 3, 2009, to Elizabeth and Timothy Fedje, Grantsburg. Briella weighed 6 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A boy, Austin Ryan-Michael Schmidt, born Dec. 5, 2009, to Heather Lancour of Webster and Ryan Schmidt of Siren. Austin weighed 5 lbs., 4 oz.

••• A boy, Tristen Ryan Rose, born Dec. 6, 2009, to Katie Rose and Benjamin Anderson, Frederic. Tristen weighed 9 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A girl, Brianna Lee Liljenberg, born Dec. 8, 2009, to Fred and Betsy Liljenberg, Siren. Brianna weighed 7 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A boy, Dalton William Rowell, born Dec. 8, 2009, to Chris and Jenica Rowell, Frederic.

Dalton weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz.

•••

Academic news Bublitz accepted to Luther College DECORAH, Iowa – Scot Schaeffer, Luther College vice president for enrollment management, has announced that Tyler Bublitz of Centuria has been accepted for admission for the 2010-11 academic year to Luther (http://www.luther.edu). Bublitz received a Regent Scholarship.

Luther is a selective four-year college lo-

cated in northeast Iowa. The college has an enrollment of 2,500 students and offers a liberal arts education leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree in 60 majors and preprofessional pro– grams. submitted

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Echo is a 6month-old brindle pit bull mix female puppy. Don’t let the name “pit bull” scare you away from this smart, loving pup.

Echo has the wiggle of a friendly Lab and a way with her eyes that causes everyone who meets her to say, “That Echo sure is a sweet dog!”

It’s true. Echo is a poster child for what is great about the bully breed.

And don’t forget, Echo is 50 percent something else. She is nearly full grown at knee height, with a stout, athletic body and soft eyes. Echo loves people and having fun.

She is looking forward to charming all she meets in her new home.

A number of cats found homes last week, and just in time, too. We have been nurtur-

Arnell Humane Society Happy Tails

Await

ing a litter of seven kittens in the cat isolation room and they are about to make their debut in adoption. Mom, aka Roxanne, is a shorthair torti with mittens and Dad must have been a mitted Siamese mix.

Every year people call the shelter looking for kittens and we tell them, “It isn’t kitten season, you’ll be lucky to find any kittens available anywhere.” Well this year, we have seven 8-week-old kittens, all with various markings. We have Dasher and Dancer, Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid and Blitzen; three boys and four girls.

Some have lilac and seal point Siamese points, two are frosty grey with black points and a torti and a blue-grey boy with a blaze.

All will need homes for the holidays.

The snow has finally come. Temperatures have dropped and we are all bundling up.

Our pets are vulnerable too and we need to

take a few extra precautions for their winter safety. Dogs and cats are safer indoors, except when taken out for supervised exercise.

Regardless of the season, shorthaired, very young or old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without supervision. For those pets who do spend a lot of time outdoors, extra nutrition is required to keep them warm as the cold weather depletes their energy.

Water must be made available and kept fresh and unfrozen. Sturdy plastic bowls are best for this.

Salt and ice-melting chemicals can irritate your pet’s feet and may be harmful if ingested. Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that can attract animals.

Be aware of these dangers and protect your pet from both hazards.

No matter what the temperature, wind chill can threaten a pet’s life. Dogs and cats are happiest and healthiest when kept indoors.

If your dog spends significant time outdoors however, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free house large enough to sit and lie

down in comfortably but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind and the doorway covered with a waterproof barrier.

If you are feeding homeless outdoor cats, be sure to provide insulated shelter for them as well. Now is the season to spay and neuter. The risk of infection is minimized and more importantly, your cat colony will not be producing bountiful litters in the spring.

The best prescription for winter’s woes is to keep your dog or cat inside with you and your family. The happiest dogs are those who are taken out frequently for walks and exercise but kept inside the rest of the time.

Dogs and cats are social animals who crave human companionship.

Your animal companions deserve to live indoors with you and your family.

Arnell Memorial Humane Society, Amery, 715-268-7387 or online: arnellhumane.org.

Lewis Sympathy is extended to the family of Doris Pederson whose funeral was held last week Tuesday at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes in Webster. Lunch was served later at the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church by the United Methodist Women.

Get-well wishes to Arlene (Mrs. LeRoy Jones) who fell in a restaurant and broke her shoulder and injured a spot above one eye.

She is a patient at Burnett Medical Center, Grantsburg. Surgery may be necessary on her shoulder.

The crèche outside the Lewis church is no longer empty. The Holy Family is now in place.mThey say this snow is here to stay.

Perhaps it cleaned the air as it fell and perhaps it killed some of the cold and flu germs in the air.

Are you receiving requests for donations from charities you’ve heard about? I am sure some of them are worthwhile but it’s hard to pick and choose. I usually stick with my usual veterans organizations, etc.

Couldn’t help thinking about the clean white snow falling on new graves this year of good friends: Gwen and Vernon Peterson, Darlene

Jensen, Ernie Bengtson, Harvey Stower, Doris Peterson, our neighbors’ son Tim Zenker. Snow like a silent benediction.

The children’s program has been incorporated into the Sunday morning church at 8:45 a.m. Welcome! Rumors promise a fresh, red apple for everyone present. Perhaps other surprises plus inspiration for sure.

The memorial service for Hugo and Ruby Kettula was held at 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church with Steve Ward officiating. Organist was Gloria Chell. The obituary was printed in last Wednesday’s Leader. Lunch was served by the UMW. A group of Lewis church members went caroling at the Frederic Care Center. Carolers also went out Sunday afternoon in the Lewis area. It was a busy week but a Christmas party was held early Saturday evening at the home of Alice and Charles Ford (after the double memorial service for the Kettula couple). It began as a party for the UMW but also included others. Supper was served, games were played and good fun was shared.

Bernice Abrahamzon

Some of the above party-goers drove around Frederic to look at and appreciate the Christmas decorations and lights. Some homeowners didn’t have their yard lights turned on.

Members and spouses of the NW Regional Writers enjoyed Christmas lunch at CamRan-Bay, Grantsburg, last Friday. They had the sad experience of dining there on Friday and it closed permanently the next day on Saturday. The group has eaten there several times for a December celebration. They shared Christmas stories for the impromptu program.

The next meeting of the NW Regional Writers will be held the second Friday in January, 2010, in the Community Room, Sunrise Apts., Frederic. The assignment is to write on “It was so cold …” The hour is 1 p.m.

The Indianhead Gem and Mineral Society is not meeting in winter but will reconvene the first Monday in April. That gives rock hounds time to work on their collections, study geology, etc.

David Simpson, one-time owner of Seven Pines Lodge, was here from the Twin Cities to

attend the memorial service for Ruby and Hugo Kettula on Saturday. He stopped briefly to visit neighbors before returning to the Twin Cities.

LaVerne Leep accompanied Carol and Lee Mangelsen to Somerset on Saturday and again on Sunday as Emmy and Ethan were in Christmas programs at church on different days. They are children of Jenny and Kryst Midbrod. It was a busy week for LaVerne as she went out to eat “with the girls” and the Good Cheer Club also met.

The snow shovel belonging to the Lewis church has wandered off and it would be good if it came back. Scott Nelson does a good job clearing the church grounds and driveway, but sometimes a shovel is needed.

Did anyone go to the auction at Whispering Pines Camp? Such a cold day for such a long list of items to be sold. Too bad it couldn’t be held in the spring when more bidders would turn out for it. Some people couldn’t figure out why it was held in such a hurry. Was it worthwhile or was it practically a giveaway?

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Webster Senior Center

866-4334 A haiku is a short poem invented in Japan that often describes nature with very simple observations about the elegant world around us. A haiku usually consists of three unrhymed lines of five, seven and five syllables.

“As simple as that - winter has finally arrived, with a pale cold sky.” Enough said!

Monday’s congregate diners were treated once again to Nicky’s meat and cheese pizza meal. Becky O’Brien accompanied her father, Sonny Phernetton, to lunch to get him acquainted with our center and the nutrition program. We hope he decides to become a regular.

Twenty-eight diners attended the evening meal on Tuesday and enjoyed the meat loaf dinner prepared by Nicky. Mary Poretti and Gladys Beers were the lucky winners of the cherry cheesecake pies from Nicky. Bernie Boelter came early before the meal to set up a lighted musical circus-type carousel with six horses in addition to a lighted Santa going up Bruce and down a 4-foot stepladder.

Behrens, Earl Boelter, Bud Martin, Harold Peterson and Gene Johnson managed to get in a couple of games of pool too.

Wednesday morning was a shockeroo to wake up to and find that we had received about 6 inches of snow, with it still snowing, blowing and drifting, and schools throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin having been cancelled. Needless to say, I made a few phone calls and we cancelled our dime Bingo too.

Our senior board has made the decision that if the schools are closed due to inclement weather, it is then a given that we won’t be having dime Bingo either on that day.

The Burnett County Elderly Nutrition Program Project Council met at the Webster Senior Center on Thursday morning with

Aging Director Lois Taylor, nutritionist Sarah Miller, Dee Troutman, Jerry Oachs, Mary Martin and Cora Sandberg. Jerry Oachs reported for A&H that they have been collecting donations for the food shelf, are having a Christmas stocking raffle, and that they had their Christmas party at their evening meal on Dec. 14. Cora Sandberg reported for Grantsburg that all is going well; and that their Christmas party will be Dec. 16. Mary Martin reported that all is going well at the Webster Senior Center and the nutrition program and that Nicky has informed her that their Christmas party will be at 11:30 on Tuesday, Dec. 22. No representative from Siren was present to give a report. The committee approved Taylor’s draft of the Burnett County Elderly Nutrition Program Senior Dining Meal Expectations and Guidelines. Dee reported on the exciting experience she had in August of a personal backstage visit with Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell at his concert at the Target Center. The January menus were reviewed and approved. Everyone enjoyed the cinnamon rolls, provided by Nicky. Afterward, most of the council members stayed for lunch with the congregate diners.

Harold Peterson, Pat O’Brien, Dave Wardean and Earl Boelter were the only gents playing pool on Thursday evening while Nancy O’Brien, Gladys Beers, Margel Ruck and Bernie Boelter played cards. The ladies furnished the treats, as usual, and everyone especially enjoyed the huge box of chocolates brought in by Nancy and the cherry cheesecake pie furnished by Gladys that she had won on Tuesday evening.

I made sure to be at Grace United Methodist Church in Webster early Saturday morning so that I could get a good selection

of goodies at their cookie walk. It was great to sit and have coffee, cookies and conversation with friends too.

A lot of excited children were at the Webster Community Center to meet Santa Claus, have their pictures taken with him and get a treat.

Jane and Dave Wardean were pleasantly surprised to have a large group of carolers from Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Webster, stop by their home on Sunday afternoon and sing Christmas carols.

Congratulations to Dan and Jan Cutler who will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 18.

As I mentioned earlier, we will be having a Christmas party during our nutrition lunch on Tuesday, Dec. 22. Nicky will be serving roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy, carrots, rolls, and something yummy for dessert.

We plan on having door prizes provided by the nutrition program, our senior center and private donations. Call 715-866-5300 and make your reservation early to come on down and join the fun.

The Ravishing Rubies Red Hat Society has had a change in meeting place for their December luncheon. Instead of meeting at Zia Louisa, they will be meeting at noon on Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Wild Waters Restaurant in Danbury.

Gratitude is extended to Mary Poretti for donating two plastic storage totes and Nancy O’Brien – candy.

Our prayers and get-well wishes continue to go out to Jane Wardean, Harold Hills, Susan Anderson, Iola Hills, Andrew Macke and Dick Blaker who fell and broke his arm.

Our sympathy and prayers also go out to the family of Johnny Sears Jr. of Hudson, in his

Dewey - LaFollette

468-2940 Donna and Gerry Hines went to Centerville, Minn., Saturday, Dec. 5 and stayed overnight with Barry, Sue, Alex, Josh and Olivia Hines. In the morning, they went to the dance recital of Alex and Olivia, and in the afternoon, they attended a play where Alex performed. On Sunday, Gerry and Donna visited Brenda and Tim Sweet and family. They returned home Monday.

Karen Mangelsen visited Ann and Joy Gruenhagen Tuesday.

Recently, Hank and Karen Mangelsen attended the third-grade presentation of “The Polar Express” at the Siren School. Granddaughter Hannah Mangelsen was one of the performers. Thursday, Dec. 10, Karen and Hank went to the K-4 Christmas program at Siren Schools for granddaughters Mandy Close and Hannah Mangelsen. After that,

they called on Harry Ferris.

Don and Lida Nordquist went to Frederic Thursday evening to attend the school Christmas program for granddaughter Hannah Schott.

Nancy and Steve Hagen were overnight guests of Nina and Lawrence Hines Friday.

Chad Harrison was also a weekend visited there.

Jack and Kay Krentz were lunch guests of Marian Brincken in Shell Lake Saturday. Others there were Marian’s daughter, June, and her husband, Chuck Willis, from Fairview Heights, Ill. Hank and Karen Mangelsen went to the Sunday school Christmas program at Siren UM Church Sunday during worship service.

Granddaughters Patty and Mandy Close were part of the presentation. Then Karen

Mary Martin

Karen Mangelsen and Hank went to the home of April and Dave Close for lunch and a visit.

Gerry and Donna Hines had lunch with Inez and Arvid Pearson Sunday.

Sunday afternoon, Connie Quam and Kay Krentz attended the Christmas Festival Concert at Woodbury Lutheran Church in Woodbury, Minn. Kay’s daughter, Susan Ackerman, is a member of the choir. Kay reported that the performances by the choir and several other musical groups were tremendous.

Chuck Andrea is home again after having a bypass operation at St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, Minn., on Tuesday. Chuck and his wife, Dixie, are very grateful to everyone for the many prayers given for Chuck to have a successful surgery.

On Thursday, the Wolfs met longtime beekeeping friends Ardy and Bruce, Maple Grove, Minn., for dinner at the Grand Casino.

The event was a celebration of Ardy’s birthday.

Bill and Amanda Carlin came over from Sandstone, Minn., to put up the Christmas tree at the home of his folks, Beverly and Ed. Grandson Benny really enjoyed helping trim the huge tree, which was cut from the Carlin homestead.

As most of you know, Jerry Blokzyl is having a difficult recovery from knee surgery he had last summer. He recently had a manipulation done to the knee to work away some of the scar tissue that has been causing a lot of pain. That procedure, plus a cortisone shot, and three days weekly of physical therapy, should, we hope, provide some relief. Because of this, Jerry and Shirley have not had a lot of holiday activity yet.

Boots Raboin reported on his deer-hunting

News from the Service SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Army National Guard Pvt. Aaron D. Simmons has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches and field training exercises.

Simmons is the nephew of Aaron and Shelly Simmons of Grantsburg. - submitted

Frederic Senior Center

by Ardyce Knauber

Cloverton-Markville Several parishioners of the Zion Lutheran Church in Markville, Minn., decorated the church after services a week ago for the annual candlelight Christmas Eve service. Coffee was served before service that day and a potluck meal was held after the completion of the decorating.

The Duxbury Volunteer Fire Department held a training with the Cloverton Station pumper last week. Chief Mike McCullen led the practice with firefighters Gary Ament, Dave Drake, Dave Baker, Don Mishler, Al Wolf, Patrice Winfield and Glen Williamson in attendance. After the training session, most firefighters convened to the Cozy Comer Inn for tacos.

Holiday shopping dominates my news out here this week. Al and Marge Wolf shopped in Superior one day and then had lunch at the Golden Inn. Sandi and Dave Drake journeyed to Duluth, Minn., to shop followed by lunch at Wendy’s.

recent passing.

On Christmas Eve, 1932, Robert McGimsey attended a midnight church service in New York City and then headed back to his one-room apartment. As he walked, he passed the open doors of private clubs where people were shouting and swearing and singing. Others were so drunk they had passed out on the sidewalk. “What a strange way to celebrate the birth of the most perfect person who ever lived on this earth,” McGimsey thought. “We seem to have missed the whole significance of his life.” That night McGimsey wrote his thoughts on the back of an envelope. These words, which were written like the spirituals he had loved growing up in the southern United States, flowed out of his heart: “Sweet little Jesus Boy, they made you be born in a manger. Sweet little Holy Child, didn’t know who you was. Didn’t know you’d come to save us, Lord, to take our sins away. Our eyes was blind, we couldn’t see, we didn’t know who you was.” The song offers an apology to the Christ Child for not recognizing him when he came to this earth. But every year gives us an opportunity to look again at Jesus’ birth with new eyes of understanding and acceptance. “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.” – John 1:11. See you at the center!

experience. His longtime friend, Dale Quast of Lake Elmo, Minn., always comes up to hunt with Boots. Dale brings with him plenty of homemade food stuffs, such as his own venison bacon, pickles, applesauce, wine and V8 juice. Boots shot a spike, while Dale took down another buck.

On the home front, Marlene Mishler and I did some errands in Sandstone, Minn., on the day of the fire training, but decided not to eat out because the snowstorm was coming.

My husband, Dave Baker, spent a worthwhile day at the home of Marty Pearson in his pottery studio in Cozy Comer. Jeff Lewis, an artist from Minong, joined them.

My nephew, Alex Wolden, and his girlfriend came down from Superior for a little spaghetti lunch and Christmas party on Sunday.

Merry Christmas to all of you, wherever you are.

Monday, Dec. 7, Spades was played at 1 p.m., with the following winners: Eleanor Bonneville, Norma Nelson, Willis Williams and Holly Stonesifer.

Tuesday was a quiet day due to the weather and Wednesday the center was closed. No school so no nutrition center open either. We are getting our winter weather.

Thursday 500 was played with the following winners: Arnie Borchert, Marlys Borchert, Shirley Sandquist and Norma Nelson.

Friday Pokeno and cards were played. Refreshments were enjoyed together.

Saturday was buffet at noon and Santa Claus visited. Cards, Pokeno or Bingo were played. Coffee time and refreshments.

Sympathy is extended to the Doris Pedersen family. Sympathy is also extended to our new member Kathy (Andriette) and her special friend, Larry Vigesaa, in the loss of her sister in a fatal auto accident.

We will be closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31.

A person can hear, but a friend listens for the meaning.

Happy holidays.

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Festival’s Featured Artist Community actors flex acting muscles ST. CROIX FALLS – Eight community actors have stepped into the limelight at Festival Theatre, joining the professional cast of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” In fact, they work as a pool of actors to support an intense performance calendar of 28 shows in less than one month.

Sharing the role of Mrs. McCarthy (whose applesauce cake causes quite a stir) are Ann Perszyk (Taylors Falls, Minn.), Nyla Greenberg (Trade Lake), Kathy Holec (Lindstrom, Minn.) and Liz Reddy (St. Croix Falls). Anne Ness (Taylors Falls, Minn.) and Lindsay Peters (North Branch, Minn.) share the role of Mrs. Slocum, while the role of the Reverend Hopkins is played by Rod Bunker (Eureka Township) and Ed Moersfelder (Wanderoos).

“When Danette asked me to consider casting community actors in the adult supporting roles, I thought it was a great idea,” said Scott Dixon, director of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”

“We make that choice from time to time in Lanesboro and it’s a great learning experience for everyone.”

A French lesson, Christmas muse and a peek ahead A fortnight or so ago, I broached the subject of how to properly pronounce Folle Avoine. Oops – being as we’re talking words no longer commonly used in these parts, notice I slipped in an old English expression – fortnight, meaning a couple weeks’ time. But I digress – hey, gnomes do that, you know, a lot. Just try tracking us in the snow some time – we meander and digress all over.

Folle Avoine isn’t an expression that easily rolls off an American’s tongue; but in our region, perhaps it should.

Long before there was a Wisconsin (or, woe be gone Minnesota), this area was known as le pays du folle avoine (land of wild rice). So go ahead, say it quickly now – folle avoine! Thought so – you pronounced the first word with the l’s sounded out. Good guess, wrong outcome. The l’s are silent, which is common in French pronunciation. As for the second word – avoine – try it this way: av wan. All together, now – fou av wan.

had excellent experiences on the stage and some who have worked extensively in college settings or even professionally. While we have some very strong community theaters in our region – such as Northern Lakes Center for the Arts in Amery, the ArtBarn in Osceola, Masquer’s in Forest Lake, and the amazing Theatre in the Woods in Shell Lake – there are folks who would like to experience the pace and pressure that comes with a professional director, the full compliment of paid designers, and a production that offers a long run. Call them crazy, but I guess they want to test their chops!”

Though it is not unprecedented, this is the first time that so many actors have been used in rotation. Earlier this year, two community actors joined the professional cast in “Deathtrap.” In 2008, the cast of “Arsenic and Old Lace” included three supporting roles and four Pictured (L to R): Professional actor Jaclyn Johnson takes part in a tele- cameo roles. In 2007, four actors shared phone montage scene with Ed Moersfelder, Nyla Greenberg and Anne Ness. duties for two small supporting roles for “Barefoot in the Park,” and in 2006 – Photo submitted one adult joined community youth for supporting roles in “Hans Brinker.”

Public performances of “The Best Some directors are quite nervous tions at Festival Theatre can be quite Christmas Pageant Ever” are under about mixing community-based actors grueling. From the beginning, Festival way, with shows through Dec. 27. - subwith working professionals. With an in- Theatre’s executive director was confimitted tense rehearsal schedule that requires dent that the talent is out there to blend being available nearly 12 hours each community actors with professionals. day for 10 days, preparing for produc- “I meet people every month who have

Folle Avoine Chronicles Woodswhimsy the gnome

Excellent! Congratulations.

So why was the reconstructed fur post site named that, anyway? Wouldn’t something like Sayer’s Fort (John Sayer was a chief trader in the region), or Yellow River Fur Post, or Ye Olde Fur Post have sufficed? Perhaps, but the whole idea of the place is to provide a window into another time. Actually, the name, hard to pronounce or not, is a signal to visitors that this is no theme park. Indeed, it’s a first clue that here is something unique and different, with something important to say to modern people.

Language lesson aside, we’ve arrived at a time of year known for its festive aspects. Holidays such as Christmas were

certainly observed in the fur trade era, but the feasting and revelry are about the only resemblance to the modern celebration. Indeed, many of the fur traders, being of Scottish or New England ancestry, emphasized the New Year more, reflecting the cultures they grew up in. The French Canadians in the trade – voyageurs, clerks and some traders – may have been more attuned to elaborate Catholic Christmas observances back home, but living away from Quebec (some for decades), their outlook on holidays took on a distinct fur trade twist. For one – no church services, as there were no Christian clergy in this area until the mid-1800s. And the concept of family was altogether different on the fur trade frontier, featuring much intermarriage between the trading groups and the resident Indians. A cultural melting pot it was, in which holidays like Christmas played a part, but were not as dominant as they would be in the less flexible cultures of European-derived societies.

The holidays were observed, however, all across the continent’s fur trading areas. Depending on the location, a feast was usually done up, and extra drams of rum were always dispensed to the voyageurs and clerks. The day

would begin with the voyageurs firing a musket volley to salute the trader early in the day; traders would visit, even rival traders from opposing companies, and often the day would conclude with a ball featuring fiddle, tin whistle and drum.

Sometimes the men were en route to or from the Indian hunting camps, as appears to have been the case at Forts Folle Avoine in 1803, as XY Company trader Michel Curot records only hunting and trade activities on Christmas Day. However, on New Year’s he writes about giving the men an extra dram of rum as his gift and notes that he paid a holiday visit to his opposing North West trader, Mr. John Sayer. The latter records, the next year, that he gave “a treat of rum &c to my Men which occasiond several Battles.” Hmmm ... that’s one way to celebrate, I guess.

Meanwhile, back at the modern Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park, a series of new monthly programs seems to be in the works, starting in January. I’ll poke around a bit, find out what they’re about, and report back to you here in a couple of weeks, or a fortnight’s time.

Signed, Woodswhimsy

SCRMC's Volunteer Partners is offering scholarships ST. CROIX FALLS - The St. Croix Regional Medical Center Volunteer Partners is again offering scholarships to high school graduates and those seeking to continue their education in the fields of health care.

Since the inception of the scholarship program in 1984, a total of $81,050 in scholarships has been awarded. Funding comes from interest on trusts set up in memory of TeBina Boomgaarden and Irene Daellenbach, two auxilians and hospital employees, who devoted years of their time and talents to the betterment of the auxiliary. The proceeds from the Love Lights at Christmas are also used for scholarships. Candidates are selected by a committee according to financial need, favorable grades, work experience, extracurricular activities, community service, quality of references

and neatness of the application.

Volunteer Partners is now accepting applications from students from the St. Croix Falls, Unity, Luck, Frederic and Siren school districts. Students living in Taylors Falls, Minn., as well as hospital employees and their families are also eligible. Students may pick up an application from a guidance counselor in their school district. Applications are also available at St. Croix Regional Medical Center from the volunteer coordinator. You may also call or write to the hospital for an application. The deadline for the applications is April 10, 2010.

The hospital’s address is: St Croix Regional Medical Center, Attn: Volunteer Coordinator, 235 State Street, St Croix Falls, WI 54024, 715-483-3261. - submitted

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PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

LIBRARY NEWS Amery Public Library “The Magician’s Elephant,” by Kate DiCamillo. A number of years ago when she had just written her first children’s book, “Because of Winn-Dixie,” DiCamillo appeared in an author visit at the Amery Public Library. Since that time, she has won the Newbery Award and written numerous books, two of which have been made into successful movies. Kate’s new book, “The Magician’s Elephant” is a slight fable set in the medival city of Baltese. The story concerns an orphan boy named Peter, his lost sister, an elephant and a magician.

Peter is being raised by a loony old soldier since his parents died. His is a hard life with constant military drilling and very little food. He dreams of his sister who the soldier told him died at birth. In his dream, she lives and is waiting for him. When he visits a fortuneteller, he is told that an elephant will lead him to his sister which seems impossible, until a magician conjures up an elephant which falls through the roof of the local opera house.

Dicamillo is a talented magical writer, and this tale will be enjoyed by children, familes and adults as well. Take a little trip into DiCamillo’s enchanted world and you won’t be disappointed.

Library notes On Wednesday, Dec. 30, at story time Kelly O’Brien, the teen worker, will do a little dance workshop for the kids showing various kinds of dance and letting kids try out the different steps. Schoolage kids might enjoy this story time as well as little ones. Everyone is always

welcome for songs and stories.

Friends of the Library will meet on Monday, Dec. 21, at 4:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming business, the March book/garage sale and the upcoming January membership drive. Remember that the Friends have book bags, T-shirts and Ameryopoly games for sale before Christmas as well as inexpensive used books on two carts at the library.

Friends of the Library book group meet on Jan. 11, 2010, to discuss “This Boy’s Life,” by Tobias Wolff. They meet at 2:30 p.m. Pick up a book at the circulation desk and join us.

Teens Read meets on Jan. 25, 2010, to discuss a book, which has not been selected yet.

The new display case theme is a Victorian Snow Village for the holidays loaned by Judith Alles. Stop in and check it out.

If you have talent and would like to perform in the Amery Area Public Library Talent Show contact Marv Nevala or the library at 715-268-9340. The show will be on Valentine’s Day at the high school auditorium.

Gratitude is extended to everyone who remembered the library and library staff in this holiday season. Remember that donations to the library are tax deductible.

Library hours Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Yes! The library is open in the new location. Stop in and check it out! 230 South Washington St. Free American Sign Language classes – Beginning recreational level. Tuesdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22 ~ Come learn how to sign your ABC’s and numbers! Learn sign vocabulary: family, animals, colors and the calendar. Instructor Julie Nelson is an ASL user with over 30 years of signing experience. Nelson is working toward obtaining certification by the American Sign Language Teachers Association. This is a tailor-made introductory class for the St. Croix Falls Library community in honor of the new library location. There will be five fun-filled classes of wriggling your fingers and learning a new language. Every Tuesday during the month of December: Adults at 3-3:50 p.m., and teens and ‘tweens (ages 10-17), 4-4:50 p.m. Classes will be held in the library’s community meeting room.

Next book club meeting will be Wednesday, Dec. 16, 3:30 p.m. at the library in St. Croix Falls. December’s book: “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,”

by Stieg Larsson; translated from the Swedish by Reg Keeland.

Dec. 19, morning coffee and poetry Poet LaMoine McLaughlin will read from his book “A Scent of Lilac” beginning at 10 a.m. Coffee and refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library at 9:30 a.m.

It’s double your donation! Our second

$100,000 challenge grant from the Otto Bremer Foundation started in April. The library has one year to raise $50,000 and the foundation will match that figure.

The mission of the Otto Bremer Foundation is to assist people in achieving full economic, civic and social participation in and for the betterment of their communities. Bremer Challenge balance as of Nov. 25 is $48,513.25; we have $1,486.75 to go! Thank you to all who have contributed – it all adds up!

Check out the library Web site and explore the links –Go to www.stcroixfallslibrary.org Technology Free wireless and eight public computers are available at the library.

Story hour Listen to stories, create art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact Holiday hours: Christmas: Closed Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 24, 25 and 26. New Year’s: Closing early Thursday, Dec. 31, 2 p.m., and closed Friday and Saturday, Jan. 1 and 2. The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Monday through Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 715-483-1777. E-mail: scflibrary@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Online: www.stcroixfallslibrary.org. Check out the library Web site and explore the links – Go to www.stcroixfallslibrary.org.

Frederic Public Library Story time Wednesday story time for preschoolers and their caregivers will be held Dec. 16. Story time will then take a break and resume Jan. 6. The December theme is “Winter,” and the December author is Ezra Jack Keats.

Book group choices for December The Thursday morning book group will meet Dec. 17, at 10 a.m., to discuss “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly,” by Jean-Dominique Bauby. In 1995 the author suffered a rare stroke to his brain stem and was left only with the ability to blink his left eye. He dictated this book, one letter at a time, by blinking to select letters. The evening book group will meet Thursday, Dec. 17, at 6:30 p.m., to talk about “Silent Night: the Story of the World War I Christmas Truce,” by Stanley Weintraub. This is the account of how, a few days before the first Christmas of the Great War, thousands of soldiers put aside their weapons and agreed to stop the killing in honor of the holiday. Copies of the books are available at the library, and new readers are always welcome to join us in conversa-

Centuria Public Library

Giving a gift to the library ‘Tis the season when many people generously give to their favorite charities and nonprofit groups. Consider the library when you make your year-end contributions – it’s as easy as writing a check, and we can give you a receipt for tax purposes. A gift of $100 or more will provide you the opportunity to have a leaf engraved in memory or in honor of loved ones and added to the donor tree plaque in the library entrance as a lasting remembrance. If you are interested in creating a donor leaf, please contact the library director to discuss your wishes.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak St. West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Story time is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. for preschoolers and their caregivers.

Milltown Public Library Computer classes The Milltown Public Library offers basic computer classes at three convenient times every Wednesday. You can learn how to create your own seasonal letter to friends and family, develop an updated resume, or learn how to create an e-mail account. Call or stop in to sign up for a one-hour class at 1, 2, or 6 p.m. and let us help you better understand and utilize this technology.

through March, the Milltown Public Library, with the help of local business, will be hosting an adult reading program. Stay tuned for more information.

Preschool story time Preschooler and an accompanying adult are invited to partake in a half hour of themed stories, small craft and fun every Tuesday morning at 9:30 a.m.

Library hours Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; and Sunday closed.

Holiday closing: Thursday – Saturday, Dec. 24 – 26 - closed; Thursday, Dec. 31, closing at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 1, closed.

Adult winter reading program Starting in January and running

Contact the Milltown Public Library at 715-825-2313. Enjoy a cup of freshbrewed coffee and our fast wireless Internet every day. www.milltownpubliclibrary.org , 715825-2313. Have a safe holiday.

Balsam Lake Public Library Holiday hours Balsam Lake Library will be closed Dec. 24, 25 and 26 and also Friday, Jan. 1.

Happy holidays.

Story time Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Stories, crafts and snacks; all ages welcome to join our lively group.

Public computers We have four computers for the public to use with high-speed Internet connection. Computers can be used for one hour; if no one is waiting you may stay on. You also can reserve computers. We have free WiFi for those with laptops.

New books for December “Trial by Fire” by J.A. Jance, “U Is for Undertow” by Sue Grafton, “Deeper than Dead” by Tami Hoag, “Texas Chase” by Sandra Brown, “Wolf at Twilight: An Indian Elder’s Journey Through a Land of Ghosts and Shadows” by Kent Nerburn.

Book club “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by

Osceola Public Library

tion about books.

Barbara Robinson. The Herdmans are absolutely and without question the worst kids “in the entire history of the world.” They are guilty of every unmentionable childhood crime and have thought of more than a few original ones. When they take over the church Christmas pageant (although none of them has ever attended church, much less heard the Christmas story before), the first Christmas becomes new and real in some pretty surprising ways.

Never mind that the publishers call this a children’s story. It isn’t. Book club meets Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 3 p.m., here at the library; everyone welcome.

Please bring a Christmas treat to share.

Hours Balsam Lake Library, (under the water tower) at 404 Main St., Balsam Lake.

Hours are Monday 10 a.m. –8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m.

– 8 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. E-mail: balsamlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Web site www.balsamlakepubliclibrary.org.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Breakfast with Santa at Grantsburg Legion

Cara Downard, Bailey Volgren and Lindsey Fallstrom were Santa’s reindeer helpers at the Grantsburg Legion’s Breakfast with Santa held on Dec. 12.

A b b e y Goepfert got some muchneeded support from her mom Ali when the 14month-old decided she wasn’t quite ready to meet Santa at the Grantsburg Legion Hall last Saturday, Dec. 12.

Haley Romero arrived from Peru two weeks ago, just in time to meet Santa at the Breakfast with Santa party at the Grantsburg Legion Hall on Dec. 12.

The 14 month-old didn’t quite know what to make of the man in the red suit as she took her turn sitting on Santa’s lap.

Sleigh parade nears Vanessa Wickstrom used a fork to get a bite of pancake while her brother Matthew took a more hands-on approach in eating his breakfast at the Grantsburg Legion’s annual Breakfast with Santa party held on Saturday, Dec. 12.

Time is nearing for the Frederic High School field to come alive with the sound of sleigh bells. The ninth-annual sleigh parade will be held Saturday, Jan. 16. Sleighs will be seen in the field behind the high school from noon until the parade and judging time at 1 p.m. It is a nostalgic afternoon you will not forget as you see vintage sleighs and costumed drivers in vintage furs and lap blankets. A variety of horse breeds are represented for your viewing pleasure. There is no admission charge and bring your camera and warm clothes. There will be a freewill offering taken to defray award expenses, etc. and 50 percent of the offering will go to a needy person, usually someone from the horse world, but not necessarily. The sleigh parade organizers are in the process of choosing a recipient now, and if you have a suggestion for a candidate please call Liz Petersen at 715-327-4955. The Frederic Sleigh Parade is sponsored by the Frederic Chamber. Larry Petersen (above) won the Most Authentic Unit award at the 2009 Frederic Sleigh Parade with this original Portland cutter made by J. S. Morris of Waupun. Larry is wearing a horsehair coat made for his father in 1920. Liz and Larry Petersen organize the annual sleigh rally in their hometown of Frederic. - Photo by Robert Mischka

Violet Fossum was having fun flipping flapjacks for the Breakfast with Santa event last Saturday, Dec. 12, at the Grantsburg Legion Hall.

Andy Anderson was one of the kids of all ages coming to the Grantsburg Legion Hall to enjoy Breakfast with Santa last Saturday morning, Dec. 12.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 12

Holiday concert at Siren School

The Siren kindergarten and first-grade classes sang three songs during the Siren K-4 Elementary Winter Program held in the Siren auditorium on Thursday, Dec. 10. Many of the children sported special concert attire ensuring that they looked as good as they sounded. - Photo

The second and third grades took full advantage of the Siren auditorium during their final song, “Here We Come A-Caroling,” when many filed off the stage and into the crowd to encourage crowd participation.

A majestic buck, the biggest and the strongest animal in the woods, offers to investigate the appearance of a snowman (stranger) in their wooded home.

Elementary music instructor Cora Sower received special permission from the authors of “Stranger in the Woods” to use the story and music in this year’s winter program. Sower worked overtime on the costumes for this year’s performance, but explained that the costumes may be used again in future years.

Glittery snowflakes spread snowflakes onto the woods during the Siren fourth grade’s adaptation of the “Stranger in the Woods” by Carl R. Sams and Jean Stoiek, a book about the reaction of a snowman’s sudden appearance in the woods by the animals that live there. – Photos by Sherill Summer unless noted

Webster Santa Day 2009

Kelsey Gustafson tried some log sawing at the chain sawing demonstration on Webster’s Main Street during Santa Day last Saturday.

Ashtin Roy gave Santa quite a stare as the Jolly Old Fellow tried to entertain the 8-month-old with sleigh bells during his visit to the Webster Community Center on Dec. 12.

Jacob Fornengo went flying through the air with the greatest of ease with help from one of Santa’s elves during his visit to Santa at the Webster Community Center on Dec. 12.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

LEFT: Jack Ralph, Alec Gustafson and Alec Ralph kept their spirits up even as the temperature dropped outside the Webster Community Center. The Scouts from Troop 564 were ready with wreaths and goodies for visitors coming to Santa Day in Webster on Saturday, Webster Citizen of the Year Jeanne Dec. 12.

Daniels and Miss Webster Alyssa Payson gave warm smiles on a chilly evening at the annual tree-lighting ceremony.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Frederic 4K-3 Christmas Photos by Gary King

Austin Foltz, Victoria Wedin and Kaeley Fischer were among kindergarten students performing at the Frederic 4K-3 Christmas program last Thursday Lucas Kuechenmeister, Chris Hill and evening. Students performed musical numbers under the direction of Pat Bradley Lucas were among the first-graders Anderson. Two musicals, “Santa and the Star Search” and “A Martian playing elves in “Santa and the Star Search” Christmas,” were among the evening’s entertainment. at the Frederic 4K-3 Christmas program, Thursday evening, Dec. 10.

Second-grader Lexy Doyle was one of the ribbon twirlers performing at the concert.

RIGHT: Tessa Domagala, firstgrader, makes her entrance as Mrs. Claus

Third-graders Justin Patterson, Ethan Alexander, Ted Tietz were among the martians in the musical “A Martian Christmas.”

RIGHT: Trent Zenzen as Santa.

The Mite-y-Vikes Mermaids, Olivia Britton, Jada Jeske and Trista Neely, performed at last Thursday’s Frederic 4K-3 Christmas program, held at the elementary school auditorium.

Webster Santa Day 2009

Five-month-old Stephen Stevens looked like a The reigning Miss Webster, Alyssa Payson, took to the reins last Saturday during Webster Santa Day as she and other visitors enjoyed horse-drawn wagon rides provided by Darwyn Brown and sponsored by the village mini-version of Old St. Nick (minus the beard) as he sat on Santa’s lap. Santa visited with chilof Webster. dren at the Webster Community Center Saturday afternoon, Dec. 12, during the Webster Photos by Priscilla Bauer Santa Day celebration.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

Luck K-3 Christmas concert LUCK – Luck Elementary School’s holiday concert was held on Thursday, Dec. 10, at the Luck School gym. It featured the students in kindergarten through grade three. It was directed by Mrs. Janet Holdt with help from the individual classroom teachers. The kindergarten sang songs and recited a poem.

The first-grade students presented the minimusical, “This is Christmas” and the second- and thirdgrade students presented the minimusical, “Christmas on Candy Cane Lane.” - submitted

Kindergarteners Cameron Johnson, Logan Hill, Keenan Hacker, Megan Chivers, Tyler Van Atta, Hailey Bloom sing “O’ Tannebaum.”

During the second- and third-graders presentation of “Christmas on Candy Cane Lane,” Rudolph (Matt Anderson) and Santa Claus (Austin Grant) join the candy canes and soldiers in singing “The Man in the Bright Red Suit.” – Photos by Lori Nelson

During the first-graders presentation of “This is Christmas,” the dog (Sam King) and the parakeet (Brooke Hetfeld) talk with the other animals about all of the parts of Christmas.

During the second- and third-graders presentation of “Christmas on Candy Cane Lane,” Green Candy Cane (Amy Gilhoi) explains why green is absolutely the best color for candy canes.

First-graders (front) Theressa Morales, Katrina Ouellette; (back) Haley Anderson and Gabby Engstrand sing about the smells and tastes of Christmas goodies that are driving them out of their heads.

Santa at St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS – Santa Claus was spotted this past weekend in St. Croix Falls. Families with small children found him at the Auditorium Theatre where coffee, cider and cookies were served. The St. Croix Falls High School chamber singers joined the scene and sang many Christmas carols for all to enjoy. Also present around the outdoor wood fire were sheep and a donkey and many men and women from in and out of the community.

Santa has agreed to come back to St. Croix

Falls this Thursday, Dec. 17, for a caroling party at the Pocket Park downtown (between Video Vault and Indian Creek Orchard Winery & Grille, from 4 to 6 p.m. Please bring a donation for the food shelf and join in the community celebration. Merchants will be gifting visitors with discounts and coupons. Bring your “local bucks” and shop. Festival Theatre is offering radical discounts that day for the 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows. Now playing at the theater is “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” – submitted

Members of the St. Croix Falls chamber singers performed festive musical selections, caroling in front of the Festival Theatre Saturday morning.

– Photos by Tammi Milberg Lynn Gaffney and her two sons, Jack and R.J., pose for a picture with Santa Saturday morning, Dec. 12, in St. Croix Falls. The Gaffneys are from Osceola and came over to St. Croix Falls to see St. Nick inside Festival Theatre, in the former library location.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Julotta service to be held in West Sweden

Decorations at Grace Lutheran Church for a Julotta service in 1914. - Special photo TOWN OF WEST SWEDEN - Grace Lutheran Church of West Sweden will be celebrating the 125th anniversary of the first Julotta service held at Grace on Christmas morning, Friday, Dec. 25. This candlelight service will begin at 6:30 a.m. followed by Swedish fellowship.

Julotta is a tradition dear to the heart of every Swedish-born person and others to whom it has become a custom.

This early morning welcome to the Christ Child, the light of the world, has been a high point of the Christmas celebration in Sweden since the earliest days of Christianity. After the Christmas Eve supper, traditionally rice and lutefisk, the

people farthest from town would start out on foot, or in their decorated sleighs toward the church. In the countryside, candles placed in farmhouse windows would shine across the paths of the worshippers. With torches in hand, as they made their way, they would be joined by more and more neighbors, until at last they would converge at the church, tossing their torches into a great bonfire.

Christmas Eve services will be held at 3:30 p.m. at Grace and 10 p.m. at Zion Lutheran-Trade Lake. All are welcome.

Grace Lutheran is located 4.7 miles north of Frederic on CTH W. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; submitted 502074 17-18L

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Love Light Tree Honorary tree lighters for the 2009 Love Light Tree at St. Croix Falls were Kris Citelli-Stelmalch, the St. Croix Falls/Taylors Falls Rotary exchange student from Italy and Alicia Chelberg, Miss St. Croix Falls, and her court. On Dec. 3, at 4 p.m., Cheryl Bjornstad welcomed everyone to the annual lighting of the Love Light Tree. The River Valley Brass played Christmas music as the audience arrived, the SCF Chamber Singers entertained with several Christmas carols and Citelli-Stelmalch did a PowerPoint presentation about Christmas celebrations in Italy. The funds raised from the sale of Love Lights are used to fund scholarships for students entering the health-care field.

Denise Sinclair-Todd informed the audience that the SCRMC Volunteer Partners have awarded approximately 160 scholarships totaling over $82,000 since 1984. - Special photo

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PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

CHURCH NEWS Zion Lutheran Christmas program

Faith Lutheran begins Advent

BALSAM LAKE – Advent has started at Faith Lutheran in Balsam Lake with a generous outpouring for the community. Fifty bags of groceries were collected through Thanksgiving and were distributed early this month between the Good Samaritan Food Shelf at Faith Lutheran and the Salvation Army backpack program. The hat-and-mitten tree was overflowing far ahead of schedule and a large batch of hats, mittens, scarves and gloves were taken to Unity Schools for distribution to children in need. Faith will continue in generosity with a baby shower for Baby Jesus on Dec. 20. This is to reZion Lutheran Church of Bone Lake held their Sunday school Christmas pro- mind the church that Jesus was born into gram on Sunday, Dec. 13. Pictured are: Delores Hermstad, Marissa Lundquist, humble circumstances and to help chilMaddie Monchilovich, Britta Hibbs, Merlin Hibbs, Shelby Hutton, Riley Hutton, dren in need. The gifts at the shower will be given to Social Services of Polk County Jessica Boyles and Summer Johnson. – Photo submitted for children in the foster care system.

Dec. 13 was the children’s program during worship, which was followed by fel-

lowship and a cookie-and-candy sale to help the missionary abroad. All are welcomed to join Faith in worship and in service to the community. For further information see www.faith-bl.org. - submitted

Baptizism at Bone Lake Lutheran

Pictured are Dorene Hendrickson and Pastor Diane Norstad. – Photos submitted

Johnnie LuDale Cramlet was baptized into the Christian faith on Sunday, Dec. 13, at Bone Lake Lutheran Church. Baby Johnnie is pictured with his big brother Jackson, sponsors Jeanne Fisher and Tucker Cramlet, parents, Jessica and Joshua Cramlet, and Pastor Mary Ann Bowman. Bone Lake invites you to worship on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion is served on the first and third Sundays. Sunday school for pre-K through adult is at 9 a.m.

Christmas Eve candlelight services with Holy Communion will be at 4 and 10:30 p.m. – Photo submitted

WHAT’S FOR LUNCH???

Menu LOCATION

FREDERIC GRANTSBURG Each building will have their own breakfast menu.

LUCK

SIREN ST. CROIX FALLS UNITY WEBSTER

DECEMBER 21 - DECEMBER 25

MONDAY Combo bar.

BREAKFAST

TUESDAY Pancakes.

BREAKFAST

WEDNESDAY Tastries.

LUNCH Christmas Dinner: Fried chicken, cheesy potatoes, corn, strawberries, Christmas treat. No salads.

LUNCH Shredded turkey on a bun, potato wedges, corn, pudding, apples, oranges, bread basket.

LUNCH Pizza dippers, baked rice, steamed broccoli, mixed fruit, apples, oranges, bread basket.

BREAKFAST Cereal/bagel.

LUNCH Barbecues, potato smiles, green beans, fruit sauce. Alt.: Hot dog, 712.

BREAKFAST Cereal/long john.

LUNCH Baked ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, cranberries, fruit sauce.

BREAKFAST Cereal/cinnamont toast.

LUNCH Mini corn dogs, chips, corn, fresh fruit. Alt.: Hamburger, 7-12.

BREAKFAST Assorted cereal and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Nuggets, pretzels, broccoli, veggies, pears. Alt.: Cook’s choice.

BREAKFAST Cheese omelet and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Hot dog, french fries, baked beans, carrots, applesauce. Alt.: Cook’s choice.

BREAKFAST Assorted cereal and toast, juice and milk.

LUNCH Pizza, fruit, veggies. Alt.: Cook’s choice.

BREAKFAST Apple cinnamon bakes.

LUNCH Chicken pattty/bun, potato wedges, green beans, mixed fruit. Alt.: Pizza burger, potato wedges.

BREAKFAST Cheese omelet, potatoes and toast.

LUNCH Turkey gravy, biscuits, mashed potato, corn, peaches. Alt.: Cheeseburger and fries.

BREAKFAST Pancake and sausage.

LUNCH Pepperoni pizza, lettuce salad, winter mix, applesauce.

LUNCH Baked chicken, au gratin potatoes, mixed vegetables, cookie.

LUNCH Hamburger hotdish, garden salad, pineapple.

LUNCH Turkey gravy, mashed potatoes, corn, cranberries, peaches.

Omelets.

BREAKFAST

FRIDAY

BREAKFAST

LUNCH Chicken patty, smile fries OR ham salad.

BREAKFAST Cook’s choice.

LUNCH Chili, corn bread muffin, crackers and juice smoothies.

THURSDAY

LUNCH Pizza, raw veggies, dip OR turkey salad.

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

EARLY RELEASE

BREAKFAST French toast.

LUNCH Pizza and corn.

LUNCH Corn dog, potatoes, green beans, pears, ice cream.

HALF DAY - RELEASE 1 P.M.

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

NO SCHOOL

NO SCHOOL

CHRISTMAS BREAK

CHRISTMAS BREAK

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

CHURCH NEWS One holy night

When two humble church leaders wrote the famed hymn, “Silent Night!

Holy Night!” little did they know it would travel beyond their mountain village in the Alps.

Joseph Mohr, assistant priest in the Church of St. Nicholas in the region of Tyrol, often talked with Franz Gruber, the village schoolmaster and church organist, about the fact that the perfect Christmas hymn had never been written. One Christmas in the mid-1800s Mohr had this in mind—to write the perfect hymn.

When he learned that the church organ wasn’t working, he realized Perspectives this would be the opportunity to compose his “perfect hymn” for the little congregation. Gruber, upon reading Mohr’s words, was ecstatic. “Friend Mohr, you have found it—the right song—God be praised!”

Gruber composed the appropriate tune just in time for the Christmas Eve Mass, at which they sang the new hymn to the accompaniment of Gruber’s guitar. The hymn stirred the hearts of the parishioners as it has for succeeding generations.

There is some disagreement about details of the hymn’s origin. However, it did reach outside the village church because apparently the organ repairman saw a copy of it and took it upon himself to spread it all around the region of Tyrol. Today it’s sung in all major languages and is a favorite wherever Christmas songs are enjoyed.

“Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child, holy infant, so tender and mild—sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

“Silent night! Holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight; glories stream from heaven afar; heav’nly hosts sing alleluia—Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born.

“Silent night! Holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light; radiant beams from thy holy face with the dawn of redeeming grace—Jesus, Lord at thy birth, Jesus, Lord at thy birth.”

Luke 2:11: “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you: he is Christ the Lord.”

Lord, we ask that even as the words of this beautiful Christmas hymn will stir our hearts to love and worship you, your Holy Word would stir us in a greater way—giving us the desire and need to worship and serve you regardless of the season. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com).

Sally Bair Eternal

Area Christmas schedules MILLTOWN – Milltown Lutheran Church will present a live nativity on Sunday, Dec. 20. The Sunday school Christmas pageant will be on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 5 p.m., followed by a family supper. Christmas Eve services on Thursday, Dec. 24, will be vespers service at 4 p.m. and the candlelight service at 10:30 p.m. – submitted ••• ATLAS – Atlas United Methodist Church Christmas Eve service will be held at 9 p.m. – submitted ••• DAIRYLAND – Woodland Church children’s Christmas program will be held on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. A candlelight service and vigil will be held at 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24. – submitted ••• LUCK – Bone Lake Lutheran Church Christmas Eve candlelight services with Holy Communion will be at 4 and 10:30 p.m., on Thursday, Dec. 24. – submitted ••• YELLOW LAKE – Yellow Lake Lutheran Church Christmas Eve services will be on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

– submitted ••• WEBSTER – Our Redeemer LCMS will have a family Christmas service at 9:15 a.m., on Sunday, Dec. 20. Their Christmas Eve service will be on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 7:30 p.m. – submitted ••• DANBURY – Trinity Lutheran LCMS Christmas Eve service will be held on Dec. 24, at 3 p.m. – submitted ••• FREDERIC – Immanuel Lutheran LCMS Christmas Eve service will be held on Dec. 24, at 5:30 p.m. – submitted ••• TRADE LAKE – The Trade Lake Baptist Church will have their Julotta service on Friday morning Dec. 25, at 6 a.m. The church is located seven miles west of Frederic on Hwy. 48.

Zion Lutheran Church, Trade Lake, will hold Christmas Eve services on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 10 p.m.– submitted ••• TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – Christmas candlelight service in the historic 1861 Taylors Falls United Methodist Church will be on Wednesday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m. The River Valley Brass will play, starting at 6:40 p.m. – submitted ••• DRESSER – Peace Lutheran Church will hold a service of remembrance on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 2 p.m. Anyone wishing to honor the memory of a deceased loved one is invited to attend.

The service will include music, prayers, Scripture, the reading of loved one’s names and a candle-lighting ceremony. – submitted ••• WEST SWEDEN – Grace Lutheran Church of West Sweden will be celebrating the 125th anniversary of the first Julotta service held at Grace on Christmas morning, Friday, Dec. 25, at 6:30 a.m., followed by Swedish fellowship. Christmas Eve services will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 24. – submitted

Will the nation of Israel be restored?

that this was the promise to regather the Jews from the nations of the Earth and to carry them back to the land of promise. In these promises of restoration, the Bible gives two possibilities: either the return from the Babylonian captivity The restoration of the nation of Israel has (606- 536 B.C., see II Chron. 36:22-23); or the long been a popular subject of religious debate. restoration of Israel to the favor of God, spiriThe discussion has intensified since the estabtually through the church. In the restoration lishment of Israel as an independent governprophecies of Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel, we ment in 1948. Several passages, mainly in the find promises of the return from Babylonian Old Testament are used as “proof-texts” to captivity. Some of those who were taken by the substantiate the claim of God’s restoration of Babylonians were kept in slavery by the Medes the Jewish nation. To properly understand and Persians after they had defeated Babylon. these passages one must first realize that every These Jews did return to Canaan, however, promise in the Bible to the Jews, as a nation, during the reign of Cyrus, king of Persia (See II has (a) either been historically and literally fulChron. 36:22 and Ezra 1:1 -3). Three groups of filled; or (b) it was a conditional promise and Jews returned to Palestine from Babylonian Preacher’s the Jews failed to meet the conditions, thus the captivity: (1) those under Zerrubebel in 536 promise was forfeited; or (c) the promise was B.C.; (2) those under Ezra in 458 B.C.; and (3) spiritual in meaning and has been fulfilled in those under Nehemiah in 445 B.C. After these Christ and His church during the gospel age. returns, there are no other promises in scripture from God’s promises to Israel in Old Testament prophecies God regarding any restorations of the Jews to Canaan. fit into one of three basic categories: (1) those involving The Seed Promise - Finally, we direct our attention to the land promise to Abraham and his descendants; (2) a study of the seed promise. The seed promise was first those involving Israel’s restoration following Assyrian alluded to in (Genesis 3:15). “And I will put enmity beand Babylonian captivity; or (3) those involving the eter- tween you and the woman, and between your seed and her nal purpose of God in using the Jewish bloodline to Seed; He shall bruise your head and you shall bruise His heel.” bring to earth the promised seed by which the whole The same promise was later given to Abraham in (Genworld would be blessed. These promises can be briefly esis 12:1-7 and Genesis 22:15-18). Later it was revealed categorized as the “land promise,” the “restoration also to Isaac in (Genesis 26:1-4), to Jacob in (Genesis promise” and the “seed promise.” It is a serious, yet 28:3,4,13,14), to Judah in (Genesis 49:8-12) and to David common, mistake in biblical interpretation to assume in (II Samuel 7:12-16). This promise was fulfilled in that most of the prophecies concerning Israel are yet to Christ, the promised seed, and in the giving of the gospel be fulfilled. The fact is that the Bible teaches that the land to save Jews and Gentiles alike. The Jewish nation and promise, the restoration promise and the seed promise the land promise were simply vehicles to bring about were fulfilled long ago.

God’s real purpose; redemption in Christ (Gal. 3:19-25).

The Land Promise - In Genesis 12:7 God promised God’s plan no longer includes fleshly Israel as a whole.

Abram the land of Canaan to be given to his seed for- Only those Jews who obey the Gospel call will be saved! ever. In Genesis 13:15, after the separation of Abram and After the rejection of Jesus, their place as God’s special Lot, the promise was given again. The Bible clearly people ended. shows that the promises to Abram were fulfilled. Just beGod’s holy nation now is the church. The function of fore his death in Acts 5, Stephen spoke of the promise to Israel, which was giving God’s revelation to the world Abraham. In verse 17 he said that the time of this fulfill- and introducing the Christ into the world, has been carment grew near as the Israelites grew and multiplied in ried out. The Jews, as a holy nation, will never be reEgyptian slavery. If the promise is yet to be fulfilled, how stored! Christians are the “seed of Abraham” (Gal. 3:26-29), could it have been near when the children of Israel were and the “Israel of God” (Gal. 6:16). (Written by Jerry W. in Egypt? Next, notice what Joshua tells us about the Carmichael) land promise. “So the Lord gave to Israel all the land which If readers have questions you would like answered in He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took posses- this weekly column or simply wish to know more about sion of it and dwelt in It ... Not a word failed of any good thing the Church of Christ, we would like to invite you to call which the Lord had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to 715-866-7157, visit our Web site pass” (Joshua 21:43-45). The land promise to Abram was (www.burnettcountycofc.com) or stop by the church fulfilled when the Israelites came from Egypt and en- building at 7425 W. Birch St., in Webster. Sunday Bible tered into and took possession of Canaan. God gave the class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. land to Abram through his seed.

We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Office hours The Restoration Promise - In regard to the prophecies are Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. - noon. which promise a restoration of Israel, one should notice

Garret Derouin

The

Pen

Bethany Lutheran presented "A Child is Born in Bethlehem"

On Sunday, Dec. 13, the program “A Child is Born in Bethlehem” was presented by the Bethany Lutheran Church Sunday school students. The Christmas story from the Gospels of Luke and Matthew was retold. There was special music including performances by the Bethany bell choir, a piano solo by Amy Stanford and musical selections by the youth band whose members included Sam Kopecky, Amy Sue Grieff, Olivia Kopecky, Tessa Schiller, Kally Shiller and Danielle Formanek. Nicole Dalsveen played Mary, Calvin Brewster played Joseph and the angels were Maddie Thiex, Abby Hayman, Ellyn Lindquist and Cassandra Maslow. David Greiff, Joey Formanek and Austin Tinman were in the roles of the Three Kings, and Tanner Brewster was King Herod. - Special photos

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

OBITUARIES Nettie Frances Otis

Michael Bruce Burns

Dorothy M. DesJardins

Nettie Frances Otis, Webster, died Dec. 5, 2009. She was 65 years old.

She was born on Jan. 21, 1944, at the Green Gable Maternity Home in Washburn County to Christian Frederick and Lulu Viola (Johnson) Mangelsen. Nettie grew up on a farm by Shell Lake. She was the oldest of six children. She attended the Doran School for two years, the McCarty School for two years and the Bashaw School for two years. In the seventh grade, she went to Shell Lake and graduated in 1962. On Aug. 24, 1963, she was united in marriage to Duane Otis. To this union there were born five children: Susan in 1964, John in 1965, Ken in 1970, Laura in 1972 and Judi in 1973.

She worked at the Cranberry Marsh near Hertel.

Then she worked at the John Thomas turkey farm. In 1987, she received her CNA license and went to work at Capeside Cove Good Samaritan Center in Siren for 10 years. She then went to work at Terraceview Living In 2006, she retired.

Center in Shell Lake.

After she retired she enjoyed her many grandchildren.

She was involved with 4-H for many years. She also enjoyed sewing, pottery, scrapbooking and many other crafts.

Nettie is survived by her husband, Duane; children, Susan (Brad) Fougner of Amery, John Otis of Shell Lake, Ken (Tyann) Otis of Webster, Laura (Dennis) Formanek of Falun and Judi (Jim) Menke of Frederic; three granddaughters; seven grandsons; one step granddaughter; two step grandsons; one sister; two brothers and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Lulu Mangelsen; and sisters, Gloria and Alice.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at 11 a.m., at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Siren Chapel, with Pastor Diane Blahauvietz officiating. Music was provided by organist Fran McBroom and soloist Barb Friese. Interment followed at Lakeview Cemetery in LaFollette Township, Burnett County. Pallbearers were Jim Otis, Bobby Mangelsen, Warren Henke, Lee Mangelsen, Pete Mangelsen and Hank Mangelsen.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Siren, was entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

Michael Bruce Burns, 61, Howard, Chippewa County, died Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, peacefully at home.

Mike was born to Celia May (Mott) and William Charles Burns on Nov. 22, 1948. His father died when Mike was young, and Celia later married Ken Humlicek, who became like a father to Mike. He graduated from Shell Lake High School and later earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Over the years, he worked at the Eau Claire Academy, Menards, Lawson Products and most recently at Omne Clinic. Mike married Linda Felser and together they had two sons, Daniel and Ryan. Mike and Linda later divorced. Mike married Jill R. Schilling Sept.

10, 2005.

Mike lived the time he was given with a vigor and enthusiasm that drew people to him. He was an accomplished photographer, an energetic musician and an unapologetic liberal. He cooked often and well, bottled his own wine and knew the stars and the planets. Sailing became his passion, always keen to pit his skills as a captain of the 30-foot Ambrosia against the challenges of Lake Superior’s winds and waves, his first mate, Jill, at his side.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jill, Chippewa Falls; sons, Daniel Burns, Stevens Point, and Ryan Burns, Madison; brother, Robert Burns, Madison; former wife, Linda Burns, Eau Claire; nieces, Christine (John) Katzenburger, Tara (Rod) Heckel, Marja Smets and Tara Schilling; and nephews, Luke (Angie) Burns, Shawn Smets, Ethan Schilling and Colbin Schilling.

A conservation burial was held at Oak Hill Natural Cemetery, town of Howard, Chippewa County. Memorials can be sent to the Oak Hill Natural Cemetery Foundation, 5460 80th Ave., Chippewa Falls, WI. 54729.

E-mail address: oakhillnaturalcemetery@gmail.com.

Dorothy M. DesJardins, 89, formerly of Frederic, died Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, in Britton, S.D. Funeral services are currently pending. Please continue to check our Web sites at www.rowefh.com or www.wicremationcenter.com for updated information or call 715-327-4475.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Harold I. Hills Harold I. Hills, Danbury, died Dec. 8, 2009. He was 57 years old.

Harold was born July 15, 1952. He lived in the Danbury/Minong area all his life. He worked for Hopkins Sand and Gravel for 38 years.

Harold liked ice fishing, hunting, being outdoors cutting wood and feeding birds. He also did snowplowing and liked visiting people.

John Edward Sears John Edward Sears, 55, North St. Paul, Minn., died on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009.

John was born on July 30, 1954, in Grantsburg, to John and Ruth Sears. John attended school in Webster and moved to Minnesota in 1995. John worked at Ion Bond in St. Paul, Minn., for 24 years. John enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Brownie Sears.

John is survived by his father, John D. Sears; and his beloved mate of 15 years, Shelley Holmgren; his six children, Angela, Christopher, Stephanie, Brianna, Haley and Amy; his sisters and brothers, Connie (Vernon) Bushey, Ruth A. Johnson, Diane Gomulak, Bill (Linda) Sears and Randy L. (Marilyn) Sears; granddaughter, Leah; and many extended family and friends.

The funeral service was held Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at Grace United Methodist Church with Pastor Cindy Glocke officiating. Music was provided by Angela Sadat. Casket bearers were Chris Holmgren, Mike Brocker, John Horner, Ed Huebsch, Vern Bushey and Randy Sears. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to John Sears Memorial Fund, 2105 6th Street North, North St. Paul, MN 55109.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

EDLING FUNERAL HOME Serving our community since 1903.

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Thank You

The family of Beverly Hoff would like to extend a very heartfelt thank-you to friends and relatives for all your loving support of prayers, phone calls, cards, flowers and gifts of food during our time of sorrow. Also, thank you to Dr. Daniel Schneider, Dr. Vicki Skarda and the staff at St. Croix Regional Medical Center for their kindness and caring ways which will never to forgotten.

God bless you, The family of Beverly Hoff

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DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

OBITUARIES Rose A. Lee

Ruby M. Teske

Irene L. Johnson

Rose A. Lee, 89, New Richmond, formerly of Clear Lake, died early Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at Westfield Hospital in New Richmond.

Rose Antoinette Lee was born Dec. 15, 1919, in Amery, the daughter of William and Amanda (Torgerson) Corty. She grew up in rural Amery and graduated from Amery High School in 1938. Rose was married to George S. Lee on Nov. 3, 1942, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Amery. Together they operated a dairy farm in Clear Lake Township for many years and raised 11 children, Charlotte, Margaret (Peggy), Daniel, Robert, Peter, Virginia, Raymond, Patricia, Barbara, John and Michael.

Rose was a devout Catholic and an active member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake. She was an avid supporter of NFO, Pro-Life, Veterans of Foreign Wars and a board member for Polk County Housing.

Rose enjoyed reading, cross-stitching, crocheting, baking bread, playing cards, Yahtzee and Bingo. She especially loved baby-sitting and spending time with her grandchildren. Rose also loved to travel and took trips to Italy, Norway, Nova Scotia and Alaska. In June 2004, Rose moved to Hillcrest Senior Housing in St. Croix Falls and lived there until September of 2007. During this time she was an active member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Taylors Falls, Minn. In 2007, she moved to The Deerfield in New Richmond until the time of her death.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, George Lee; her parents, William and Amanda Corty; son-in-law, Ken DuBois; brothers, Bob, Joe and Howard Corty; and sister, Annabelle Majeske.

She is survived by children, Charlotte DuBois of New Richmond, Peggy (George) Sandstrom of Roseville, Minn., Daniel (Judy) Lee of Hudson, Robert (Karen) Lee of Xenia, Ohio, Peter (Lorene) Lee of Stillwater, Minn., Virginia (Robert) Stawicki of Milwaukee, Raymond (Mary) Lee of Star Prairie, Patricia (David) Swanson of New Richmond, Barbara (Steve) Jorgensen of St. Croix Falls, John (Cheri) Lee of Clear Lake and Michael Lee of Clear Lake; 27 grandchildren and 24 greatgrandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John’s Catholic Church in Clear Lake on Monday, Dec. 14. Celebrant was Fr. Leonard Fraher with music by Christine LaFond, Mike Murtha and David Swanson. Interment was at the Amery Cemetery in Amery.

Casket bearers were Daniel Lee, Robert Lee, John Lee, Peter Lee, Michael Lee and Christopher DuBois.

The Scheuermann-Hammer Funeral Home of Clear Lake was entrusted with arrangements.

Ruby M. Teske, New Richmond, died peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at the Good Samaritan Center.

She was 80 and spent her final days with great love and care.

Ruby was born July 11, 1929, to Emma and Lawerence Germain in Somerset. Ruby graduated from Osceola High School in 1947. She attended the Minnesota School of Business in St. Paul, Minn. She was employed at Montgomery Wards for five years and at Northwest Airlines as office support. She married Vernon Teske on Oct. 22, 1952, and the couple lived on the family farm for 57 years. Ruby was a devoted farmwife and mother whose greatest joy was raising her family of six children, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening, growing fruit trees, farming, baking and having coffee with her good friends, and sharing her wit, wisdom and selflessness.

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, Emma and Lawerence; daughter, Diana; and brother, Russell Germain.

Ruby is survived by her husband, Vernon; children, Dan of Goodwell, Okla., Dawn (Mark) Tjaden of Mahtomedi, Minn., Bill of Billings, Mont., James of New Richmond and Julie (Dean) Fox of Osceola; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother, Allen (LuAnn) Germain; sister, Mickie (Dennis) Baillargeon; numerous nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, Dec. 18, at 11 a.m., at Assumption Catholic Church in Farmington. There will be a visitation from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola. Private interment will be in the St. Mary Cemetery in Farmington. Condolences may be left at www.grandstrandfh.com.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements.

Irene L. Johnson, formerly of Grantsburg, died Dec. 8, 2009, in Franklin, N.C., at the age of 93.

She was born in St. Paul, Minn., to Addie Beulah Garlick. At the age of 6 months, she was adopted by David and Susan Reager of Grantsburg. She wrote of her fond memories of her parents and friends from the North Fork Grade School. After high school, she moved to Minneapolis, and worked at a governmental office for a few years. Later she moved to Long Beach, Calif., lived there during the early years of WWII and returned to Grantsburg in the mid-1940s. On March 24, 1949, she was united in marriage with Orlan C. Johnson. They had a total of seven boys and lived on the family farm located on South Williams Road.

Orlan passed away in November 1999. She remained on the farm until moving to North Carolina to live with her son, Nathan, and daughter-in-law, Jeri, in 2006. She will be remembered by both friends and family as a dedicated Christian, loving mother and wife.

She was preceded in death by her parents; birth mother; husband and son, David.

She is survived by sons, Richard (Flo) of Tualatin, Ore., Tim (Blanca) of Grantsburg, Nathan (Jeri) of Franklin, N.C., Joel (Claire) of Grantsburg, Bradley (Elizabeth) of Naples, N.Y. and Samuel of Grantsburg; 14 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on a later date at Grace Baptist Church in Grantsburg.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Grace Baptist Church, 716 South Robert Street, Grantsburg, WI 54840-7957.

Allen (Bud) James Van Elsberg

Allen (Bud) James VanElsberg, 67, a resident of Danbury, formerly of Forest Lake, Minn., died on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009.

Bud was born on Dec. 27, 1941, in Forest Lake, Minn., to Lloyd and Iris (Hanson) VanElsberg. Bud attended Forest Lake Senior High and lived in the Forest Lake area until he moved to Danbury in 2002. Bud co-owned and managed a motel with his wife, Roselyn, and retired in 2002.

Bud enjoyed sitting in his kitchen looking at nature through his front window. He also enjoyed his big-boy toys. Most of his toys had a seat and could move dirt or make things easier. Bud was a friend to everyone and was always there when you needed him. Bud was liked by all. He had a unique ability to listen and make you Shirley Mae Cook, 55, formerly a resident of Centuria, feel important. died Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, at the He was preceded in death by father, Lloyd; mother, Country Club Care Center in WarIris; and brother, Gary (Butch). rensburg, Mo. Bud is survived by his wife, Roselyn; sisters, Mardy Shirley (Bronstad) was born June (Bob) and Vonnie (Tom); son, Tom (Becky); and daugh13, 1954, in Rice Lake. She was the ter, Vicki; stepchildren, Jody, Sheila, Troy and Wendy; daughter of LeRoy and Dorothy 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Bronstad.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 She enjoyed gardening, listening – 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18, at Mattson Funeral Home in to music, being outdoors, playing Forest Lake, Minn. games on the computer and spendThe Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Webing time with her her grandchilster, was entrusted with local arrangements. Online condren. dolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

Shirley is survived by her son, Jason Bearden; daughter, Michelle Cianciaruli (Karshbaum); two grandchildren, Trent, 8, and Adriana, 3. She was preceded in death by her father, LeRoy Bronstad.

A celebration of life will be held at the Kolstad FamDoris V. Pederson, 89, a resident of Frederic, died Dec. ily Funeral Home in Centuria on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 4, 2009, at St. Croix Regional Medical Center. at 6 p.m. The family will greet visitors at the funeral Doris was born on July 4, 1920, in Siren, to Arthur and home one hour prior to the service.

Lura Hammer. Doris married Lyle McKee in 1939. She The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria has worked for many years as a waitress. been entrusted with arrangements.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Sylvia, Edna, Edith, Inez, Mae and Beth.

Doris is survived by her sons, Dennis (Sandra) McKee of Escanaba, Mich. and Douglas McKee of St. Paul, Minn.; grandchildren, Jenny, Kelly and Kyle McKee; sisJohn L. Webb, resident of Frederic, died Sunday, Dec. ter, Shirley Olson of Frederic; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

13, 2009, at the age of 69.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 8, with a He is survived by his wife, Lynette; daughter, Stacey visitation prior to services at Swedberg-Taylor Family Webb; and stepson, Lucas Radke.

Funeral services are currently pending. Please con- Funeral Homes in Webster. Pastor Tom Cook officiated. tinue to check our Web sites at www.rowefh.com or Interment followed at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Webwww.wicremationcenter.com for updated information ster. Pallbearers were Butch Sahr, Harvey Nelson, Duane Murphy, Rich Grovum, Wayne Olson and John or call 715-327-4475.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted Glockzin.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes in Webwith funeral arrangements. ster was entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

Shirley Mae Cook

Doris V. Pederson

John L. Webb

Oceil Marjery Burtt Oceil Marjery Burtt, 89, a resident of Balsam Lake, died at the Amery Regional Medical Center on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009.

Oceil was born on May 25, 1920, in Balsam Lake, to Ole and Minnie (Erickson) Stoen. She was married to Tylor Burtt on April 5, 1946.

Oceil and Tylor settled in Balsam Lake in 1971, after Tylor retired from the U.S. Air Force. Oceil worked for Polk County Bank at the Centuria and Balsam Lake branches. She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Balsam Lake, Faith Lutheran Ladies Aide, past church council member, American Legion Auxiliary and a volunteer at the Balsam Lake Library.

She leaves to celebrate her memory, son, Philip (Thera) Burtt of Eagan, Minn.; stepgrandchildren, Elizabeth and Hans Larsen and Steven Moffitt; step-greatgranddaughter, Annika Larsen; brothers, Burdette (June) Stoen of Plymouth, Minn. and Glen (Karen) Stoen of Bloomington, Minn.; nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Tylor; brothers, Gilman, Kenneth and Norman Stoen.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Balsam Lake. The family will greet visitors on Friday, Dec. 18, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Kolstad Family Funeral Home in Centuria and again at the church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Oceil will be laid to rest next to her husband, Tylor, at the Bunyan Union Cemetery following the service. The family wishes to extend an invitation to their guests to return to the church after the cemetery service for a warm lunch and fellowship.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Boyd I. Duncan Boyd I. Duncan, 82, resident of West Sweden Township, Frederic, died Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at his residence.

He is survived by his wife, Eleanor; son, Kevin (Joanie) Duncan; daughter, Twyla Rieck; grandchildren, Madeline, Joseph and Ellie Duncan; brother and sisters, Dean and Mack Duncan, Jean Fenton and JoAnn Schmidt.

A gathering will be held at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Frederic on Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11 a.m. Time to visit with the family will begin at 10 a.m. and will continue until the service begins.

Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center of Milltown were entrusted with arrangements.

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

CHURCH NEWS

'Tis the season for love, forgiveness

tell you that I love you, and I'm sorry if I disappointed or hurt you"? After all, isn't that what the Prince of Peace came to teach us?

And while we're at it, have you slowed your pace enough to make Christmas meaningful in your own home? When our days are concluded, perhaps unexpectedly soon, no power on earth can reunite us for another time of fellowship or communication. Don't let the opportunity of this season slip through your fingers here at the close of 2009.

••• QUESTION: Our local school board is currently trying to decide whether or not boys and girls should be segregated for courses on sexuality and "family life." What are your feelings with regard to coed sex-education programs?

DR. DOBSON: I have severe reservations about highly explicit discussions occurring with both sexes present. To do so breaks down the natural barriers that help to preserve virginity and makes casual sexual experimentation much more likely to occur. It also strips kids – especially girls – of their modesty to have every detail of anatomy, physiology, intercourse and condom usage made explicit in coed situations. Those who have thereby become familiar and conversant about the most intimate subjects later find themselves watching explicit sexual scenes in movies, rock videos and hot television programs.

Question: In an attempt to reign in our spending this Christmas, my husband wants to dispense with buying and mailing traditional cards and photographs and send e-mail greetings instead. This seems very impersonal to me. I'm curious what you think about this growing trend?

Dr. Dobson: Any response of mine would be merely subjective opinion, but I would like to share a story with you that might help put the issue in context.

Years ago, my great friend, Al Sanders, inadvertently misdialed the telephone while trying to make a local call. He quickly realized his mistake when an older woman answered the phone. Al apologized and prepared to hang up. "No wait," said the woman. "I am 80 years old, and no one ever calls me. Would you talk to me for a minute?" Al and his new friend went on to enjoy a pleasant conversation.

It's easy to fall into what I've called "routine panic," where we run faster and faster in our breathless way of life. It is easy to forget why we send holiday greetings in the first place. What type of greeting we send isn't nearly as important as how we view and treat the value of personal relationships.

Is there someone like this older lady in your neck-ofthe-woods who needs a loving call or a card or a friendly visit today? Is there a single mother near you who has struggled mightily to keep house and home together? Would an assortment of groceries and a warm note help her get through the expensive holiday season? Is there a member of your family with whom you have had severe conflict this year? Wouldn't this be a great time to call and say, "I just wanted to

Dr. James

Dobson Focus on the Family

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to recognize the combined impact of these influences. Whereas it was a weighty decision to give up one's virginity in decades past, it is but a small step for those whose conditioning began in the school classroom. Familiarity "breeds," as we all know. I am also convinced that the incidence of date rape rises when the barriers that help a girl protect herself are removed.

In some cases, no doubt, school officials have pushed for mixed sex-education classes out of a sense of obligation. Somehow, they feel this is what's expected of them – that parents and the community at large want it. Let them know if you disagree! Tell your school board members about the educational advantages of separated classes. They may see your point if you present it to them from that angle.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman emeritus of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80995 (www.focusonthefamily.org).

Questions and answers are excerpted from "Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide" and "Bringing Up Boys," both published by Tyndale House.

COPYRIGHT 2009 JAMES DOBSON INC., DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL UCLICK, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, Mo. 64106; 816-581-7500

Brought to you by:

Webster Area Catholic Churches Webster

Christmas tea planned FREDERIC - It’s tea time again, ladies!

The much-anticipated annual Frederic Evangelical Free Church Christmas tea will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, from 9:15 - 11:15 a.m. This year’s theme is Memories of Christmas and features the music and inspira-

tional words of singer and worship leader, Barb Harris.

If you’ve attended previous teas, you know this will be a wonderful morning of fellowship and festivities. If you’ve not yet attended, make this the year you treat yourself to one of the high points of the Christmas sea-

son.

Looking for a memorable gift for that special neighbor or friend? Invite her to join you for tea. It will be a Christmas 2009 memory to treasure. Child care provided. - 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

INTER-COUNTY CO-OP PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION Printers & Publishers Office Supplies

Frederic, Wis. - 715-327-4236 Shell Lake, Wis. - 715-468-2314 Siren, Wis. - 715-349-2560 St. Croix Falls, Wis. - 715-483-9008

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

NORTHWESTERN WISCONSIN ELECTRIC CO.

“Your Electric Servant” Serving Polk & Burnett Counties “Use Energy Wisely”

WEBSTER CASHCO BUILDING SUPPLIES Complete Lumber & Building Supplies

CARLSON-ROWE FUNERAL HOME

Phone 715-866-4238 Hwy. 35 N. Webster, Wis. Tom & Becky O’Brien, Owners

MEDICINE SHOPPE

HOPKINS SAND & GRAVEL, INC.

Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4475 110 Oak Street Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4208 Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5 Not Open On Saturday Duane Lindh

HAULING

• Gravel • Sand • Rock • Top Soil • Trackhoe 715-472-2717 Mobile 715-491-1861 1065 290th Ave. Frederic, Wis.

LUCK VAN METER’S MEATS

Government Inspected Slaughtering and Processing, Sausage making • Ham and Bacon Cured and 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

Sand, Gravel, Ready-Mix, Concrete, Black Dirt, Dozer Work, Landscaping & Septic Tanks Installed

ALPHA

CUSHING

BASS LAKE LUMBER

CUSHING COOPERATIVE SOCIETY

• 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. Clif Gipp, 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

By Willits Jerry & Pat Willits, Owners We sell flags, banners, wind socks, pennants, flag poles & accessories.

Installations Available 2815 285th Ave. • Sterling Township 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

BRUCE’S AUTO REPAIR & TOWING

Churches 5/09

FREDERIC

Wrecker - Flatbed Air Conditioning & Computerized Car Service - Cold Weather Starts

Webster, Wis. 715-866-4100 Days • 715-866-8364 Eves.

SIREN OLSEN & SON

Your Full-Service Drugstore Siren, Wis. Phone 715-349-2221

Any area business wishing to help sponsor the church listings should contact the Leader at 715-327-4236.

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - 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 Senior Pastor Bob Morton 1259 Hwy. 35 S., St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship: 8:30, 9:45 & 11 a.m.

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

WORD OF LIFE CHURCH

Meeting in homes. Elders: Cliff Bjork, Jon Zens, 483-1357 and 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.; Pastor Matt Faarem 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. Pastor John Clasen; Pastoral Serv. 349-5280 Sun. Schl. 8:15 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.

BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws

Pastor Mark Richardson, 715-755-2562 Pastor Mike Winick 1947 110th Ave., Dresser Praise Serv. 8:15 a.m.; Heart Song Serv., Adult Ed & Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Trad. Serv. 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; 472-8153, Office/Kit. - 472-2535 Sun. Schl. & Adult Bible Study 9 a.m.; Fellowship 10 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

CHRIST LUTHERAN

Pipe Lake CTH G & T, 715-822-3096 Sun. Serv. 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m. during school year; Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sun.

CLAM FALLS LUTHERAN (AALC)

Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt - 715-653-2630 Communion 1st Sunday Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday 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. 10:40 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

5561 Chestnut St., Taylors Falls, MN 651-465-5265 Traditional Wor. 8:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. & Youth 9:45 a.m.; Adult Learning 10 a.m.; Contemp. Wor. 11 a.m.

FIRST LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl, 648-5323 or 648-5324 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:15 a.m.

MILLTOWN LUTHERAN

METHODIST

NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN

CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST - GRANTSBURG

Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER

Rev. Jody Walter, Interim, Phone 327-8608; Church Phone 866-7191 Sun. Wors. - 9:15 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA)

2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 Web site: plcdresser.org Pastor Wayne Deloach, Intern Lori Peper Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 11 a.m., Sun. Schl. 9:35 a.m.

PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA) Pastor Catherine Burnette 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Sunday Wor. - 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.

ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod) 350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Wor. - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LUCK

1614 CTH, North Luck Office Ph.472-2605; Dial-A-Devotion 472-2345 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN (Missouri Synod)

140 Madison St. South, St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark K. Schoen Sun. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun.School - 10:30 a.m.

TRINITY LUTHERAN - ELCA

10 mi. W. of Cumberland on Hwy. 48 (McKinley) - Pastor Neal Weltzin GT Office 857-5580, Parsonage 822-3001, TR Office - 822-3001 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:15 a.m.

Holy Communion - 1st Sunday

TRINITY LUTHERAN LCMS, DANBURY

Rev. Jody Walter, Interim Home 715-327-8608; Church 715-866-7191 Sunday Worship Service - 7:45 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN

Hwy. 70 East, 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 at 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School (ages 4 thru 12th grade), Fellowship, Adult Bible Class at 9:15 a.m.

WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN

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

ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (AALC)

Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt - 715-653-2630 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

GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN

Pastor Martin Weigand - 715-294-3489 Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Adult Bible Class 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

LAKESIDE COMMUNITY LUTH. - ELCA

CTH H, 1/2 mi. N. of CTH A & H on H Church Off. 715-635-7791 Roger Pittman, Pastor Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 8 &10 a.m.; Sat. 7 p.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl Sun. Wor. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:30 a.m.

LUCK LUTHERAN

510 Foster Ave. E. Office 715-472-2605; Home 715-472-8424 Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

DANBURY UNITED METHODIST

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

ZION LUTHERAN - EAST FARMINGTON (WELS )

ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE

Pastor Tim Faust Worship - 11 a.m.; Sun. School - 10 a.m.

Holy Communion - 1st & 3rd Sunday

ZION LUTHERAN - TRADE LAKE

Pastor David Almlie, 715-327-8384, 715-327-8090 Fellowship - 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School - 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. 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

Pastor Father Daniel Bodin, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9 a.m.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

GRACE UNITED - WEBSTER

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Michael J. Tupa, 715-866-7321 Cedar & Muskey Ave. - Webster Mass Sun 10:45 a.m., Wed. 5:45 p.m. (SeptMay), Fri. 9 a.m. (Summer) Sat. 8:15 p.m. on Sept. 1

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

Holytrinity@wisconsinumc.org 1606 165th Ave., CTH I, Centuria Paul Foulke, Pastor, 715-485-3363 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.

LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL

Pastor Jack Starr Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour

LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST Tom Cook, Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

McKINLEY UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Annie Tricker Sun. Wor. 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

Potluck dinner 1st Sunday

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST

oumc@centurytel.net 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Pastor Mark Gilbert Adult Class - 8:30 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st Sunday

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship Service - 10 a.m.

Sun. School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available

ST. LUKE UNITED - FREDERIC

Pastor Arveda “Freddie” Kirk, 327-4436 Early Wor. 8:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 10 a.m.

Souper service Wed. 5:15 p.m.

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 Sagel, 715-689-2541 Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 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

CATHOLIC

Rt. 1, Balsam Lake, WI (Fox Creek) Pastor Neal Weltzen; GT Office - 857-5580, Parsonage - 822-3001, TR Office - 822-3001 Wors. Serv. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:15 a.m.; Holy Communion - 1st Sun. of each month

(Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter, 327-8608 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:45 a.m.

Communion - 1st & 3rd Sun.

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Worship - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10:30 a.m.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - ELCA

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

Pastors Mike & Linda Rozumalski 1 mi. west of Luck on N, 2478 170th St., Luck Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Fellowship 9:45 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, Pastor Douglas Olson and Roger Kampstra Services begin at 9:30 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday

Phone 327-4340, 327-8384, 327-8090 Pastor David Almlie Worship 9:15 a.m.; Sun. School 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays

ATLAS UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Gary Tonn Praise Time 8 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:20 a.m.

ELCA - 501 Hwy. 35, 646-2357 Mel Rau, Pastor Sunday Worship & Holy Communion - 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School - 10:40 a.m.

FRISTAD LUTHERAN - CENTURIA

METHODIST

113 W. Main St.. W., Phone 715-825-2453 Pastor Danny G. Wheeler 9 a.m. Prayer & Praise; 9:30 a.m. Sun. Schl.; 10:40 a.m. Worship Serv..

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 Daniel Bodin 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, 866-7321 Pastor - Father Michael J. Tupa Mass - Wed. 5 p.m. (Summer), 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

404 Wis. Ave., Amery, 715-268-7717 Father John Drummy, Pastor Sat. Mass 4 p.m., Sun. Mass 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat., 3:30 p.m. or by appt.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

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

TRADE RIVER EVAN. FREE

Pastor Dale VanDeusen, 715-488-2296 or 715-488-2653 20296 Hwy. 87, Grantsburg Morn. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:45 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services

716 S. Robert St., Grantsburg, 715-463-5699 Sr. Pastor Brad Moore David Ahlquist, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Wor. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

LIVING HOPE CHURCH

Pastor Doug McConnell Youth Pastor Chris Radtke At Grantsburg High School, 715-463-5794 Sun. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

TRADE LAKE BAPTIST

Pastor Andy McDaniel, 715-327-8402 Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Bible Study; Nursery provided.; www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH OF CHRIST - WEBSTER

Minister Garret Derouin, 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. Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Wor. 10:30 a.m.

HOPE FELLOWSHIP OF SOMERSET

231 Bluff Drive, 715-247-2435 Services are Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Call Pastor Darryl Olson at 715-755-3133 for information and directions

CHRISTIAN CENTER

CHRISTIAN CENTER EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER

1751 100th Ave., Dresser Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Morn. Wor. 10:30 a.m.

Evening Services Sun. 6 p.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA)

CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX

FREDERIC EVAN. FREE CHURCH

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

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.

Pastor Greg Lund, 715-327-8767 700 Churchwood Lane; 505 Old CTH W Sun. Schl. - 9 a.m.; Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services BAPTIST

BAPTIST

EAST BALSAM BAPTIST - BALSAM LK. Pastor David Sollitt 715-857-5411 or 715-268-2651 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl.-10:15 a.m.

EUREKA BAPTIST

2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls Pastor Willis Christenson, 715-483-9464 Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 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 Pastor Charlie Butt, Lead Pastor Sunday Worship: 9 - 10:15 a.m. & 10:30 11:45 a.m.; Childrens church ages 3-4 Sun. Schl. for Pre-K to 5th; Sun. Schl. for Jr./Sr. high meet in teen center Nursery available

FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN

Pastor Kevin Miller Associate Pastor Roger Inouye Sunday School - (all ages) - 9:30 a.m.

Church Serv. - 10:45 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN

Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Wor. 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. Schl. for all ages - 9 a.m.

Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.

Pastor Father Michael J. Tupa CTHs A & H - 715-866-7321 Crescent Lake Voyager Village area.

Mass Sun. 8:15 a.m., Thurs. 11:30 a.m.

Reconciliation as per bulletin and by appt.

FIRST BAPTIST - WEBSTER

ST. DOMINIC - FREDERIC & IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG CATHOLIC MASS SCHED.

GRACE CHURCH OF OSCEOLA

Pastor: Rev. Dennis M. Mullen, 715-327-8119 St. Dominic: Sat. 4:30 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.

Immaculate Conception: Sun. 8:30 a.m.

Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times

GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG

Church Phone 715-866-4111; Rev. Merrill Olson - Pastor Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m (Nursery Provided)

“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. Schl. 10:45 a.m.

523 1st St., Clayton, 715-948-2493 Fr. Christopher Wojcik, Pastor Sat. Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sun. Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.

Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago Lakes, MN Fr. Robert McMeekin, pastor hcomm.org Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.

NAZARENE

NAZARENE

CALVARY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 510 S. Vincent, St. Croix Falls Pastor Lori Ward, 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 Reverend R.A. Luebke Adult Bible Service 9 a.m.; Services: Sun. 10 a.m.; Sunday School during church service.

NONDENOMINATIONAL

NONDENOMINATIONAL

CENTERPOINT CHURCH “Come as you are”

Pastor Dick Enerson, www.centerpointstcroix.com 715-294-1833, Meeting at SCF High Schl. Main entrance 740 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship 10 - 11:15 a.m.

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY - AMERY Pastor Timothy Barnes Sat. 7 p.m. prayer; Sun. Worship 10 a.m.; Children’s Church to 6th Grade

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Meets at Dresser Elem. School, Dresser Pastor Michael Brand, 715-417-2468 Adult Class 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 9:45 a.m.; Nursery available

NEW WINE CHURCH - CENTURIA 309 5th Street, 715-338-2751 Pastors Randy and Pam Stone Sunday 10 a.m.; Wednesday 7 p.m.

NORTHERN PINES FRIENDS WORSHIP 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 Pastors Dan and Claudia Denissen Asst. Pastor Ken Janes Sun. School 9 a.m.; Worship 10 a.m.

church directory

ADVENTIST

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

CARRIAGE RIDES WITH SANTA

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Noah’s Arc Support NO KILL Shelters, Research To Advance Veterinary Treatments.

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HELP WANTED TRUCK DRIVER

Drivers - Class A CDL exp Inexp/CDL Permit Training available Home weekly Call today for more info H.O.Wolding Transportation WI based 800-950-0054.

HELP WANTED MISCELLANEOUS

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MISCELLANEOUS

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Subscribe online!

www.theleader.net

Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Phone (715) 472-2121

715-866-4700

www.stcroixeye.com

Mon.-Fri. • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home Webster, Wisconsin

“Distinctive Funeral Service”

2179 E. Hwy. 8 Between Tractor Supply and Wal-Mart www.evergreen-entertainment.com

SHOWS AND SHOW TIMES AT THE LODGE

SHOWS AND SHOW TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL SEATS $6.50 UNTIL 6 P.M.

24226 1st Ave. No. Siren, WI Local Movie Line 715-349-8888 Timbers1@starwire.net SHOW TIMES FOR FRI., DEC. 18 THRU THURS., DEC. 24

(PG-13) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Fri., Mon.-Wed.: 6:45, 9:40 Sat.-Sun.: 12:50, 3:45, 6:45, 9:40

Season’s Greetings From All Of Us At Timbers Theatres!

AVATAR

Rated PG-13, 162 Minutes.

Fri.-Wed.: 1:00, 4:30 & 7:45 p.m.; Thurs., Christmas Eve Day: 1:00 p.m.

ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS THE SQUEAKQUEL Rated PG, 88 Minutes.

Wed.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.; Thurs., Christmas Eve Day: 1:00 p.m.

OLD DOGS

Rated PG, 88 Minutes.

Fri.-Wed.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.; Thurs., Christmas Eve Day: 1:00 p.m.

THE BLIND SIDE

Rated PG-13, 126 Minutes.

Fri.-Wed.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:40 p.m.; Thurs., Christmas Eve Day: 1:00 p.m.

PLANET 51

Robert L. Nelson New York Life Insurance Company Box 313 Luck, Wis. 54853 Phone

715-472-2502

NEW YORK LIFE

See us for all your printing needs.

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION • Frederic, 715-327-4236 • Siren, 715-349-2560

• Shell Lake, 715-468-2314 • St. Croix Falls 715-483-9008

Visit The Leader’s Web Site:

www.the-leader.net

All shows and show times before 6 p.m. $5.00.

Shows and show times subject to change.

Visit us on our Web site: www.timberstheatres.com

Daily: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

AUSTIN LAKE GREENHOUSE & FLOWER SHOP • WEDDING BOUQUETS • FUNERAL DESIGNS • CUT FLOWERS • GIFTS • BALLOONS • BEDDING PLANTS • POTTED PLANTS • TUXEDO RENTAL BY SAVVI • ANTLER KING PRODUCTS Hwy. 35 & “FF,” Webster Flowers Phoned Anywhere

Call 715-866-7261

Let’s Thrive.®

Cris A. Moore, FICF, FIC Senior Financial Consultant

Joel L. Morgan, FIC

Assistant Financial Associate 201 Main St. S. Luck, WI 54853

715-472-8107 office 1-800-500-2936 toll-free 22854A N1-07

DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MORGANS? (PG-13) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Fri. & Wed.: 5:15, 7:15, 9:15 Sat.-Sun.: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:15, 9:15 Mon.-Tues.: 7:15, 9:15

THE FANTASTIC MR. FOX (PG)

200700115 12/08

7421 W. Apple St. 502226 (south end of Webster behind Wayne’s Foods) 17Lp 7a,bp Her Actual Birthday Is Jan. 5, 2010, & She’ll Be 90 Years Old!

Suzy Q’s

Snowshoe Tavern

Cushing, WI • 715-648-5223 You don’t have to go far to get a great meal.

FEATURING DAILY FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS SERVING BREAKFAST EVERY DAY, ALL DAY Sat., Dec. 19: DJ/KARAOKE

w/Gordy INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE COMING SOON! CHRISTMAS EVE: CUSTOMER

APPRECIATION

TOM & JERRY’S 2 p.m. till gone POTLUCK - 5 p.m.

NEW YEAR’S EVE

501919 6a,d 17L

PRIME RIB SPECIAL Cooked to order, I promise!

Champagne & Party Favors at Midnight

Fri. & Wed.: 5:05, 7:05, 9:05 Sat.-Sun.: 1:05, 3:05, 5:05, 7:05, 9:05 Mon.-Tues.: 7:05, 9:05

INVICTUS (PG-13)

THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (G) Fri. & Wed.: 5:05, 7:05, 9:05 Sat.-Sun.: 1:05, 3:05, 5:05, 7:05, 9:05 Mon.-Tues.: 7:05, 9:05

Rated PG, 91 Minutes.

Fri.-Tues.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

• Commercial Printing • Office Supplies • Daily UPS Pickup • Fax & Copy Service

AVATAR

Fri. & Wed.: 4:30, 7:00, 9:30 Sat.-Sun.: 1:30, 4:30, 7:00. 9:30 Mon.-Tues.: 7:00, 9:30

Phone 715-268-2004

Eye health exams, glaucoma checks, foreign body removal, full line of street wear, safety and sport wear, contact lenses

SEE US FOR ALL YOUR VISION CARE NEEDS. Exams, Glasses & Contacts, Foreign Body Removal, Treatment of Eye Disease

All Stadium/Digital 715-483-1471

OPTOMETRIST 119 Arlington Drive Amery, Wis.

304 1st St. So., Luck, Wis.

WEBSTER EYE ASSOCIATES

Cinema 8 ST. CROIX FALLS

Dr. T.L. Christopherson

Family Eye Clinic

715-463-2370

Join us at the Open House Sun., Dec. 20, 2009, 1 - 5 p.m.

At Webster, Wis. Senior Center,

Dec. 18 - Dec. 23

Dr. Daniel C. Satterlund

GRANTSBURG EYE ASSOCIATES

Balsam Lake, Wis.

Wilson Hafliner’s Carriage Company 715-566-0566

Come & Help Celebrate a 90th Birthday for Elva Gladys “Suz” Hughes

THE BLIND SIDE (PG-13) Fri. & Wed.: 4:45, 7:05, 9:25 Sat.-Sun.: 1:25, 4:45, 7:05, 9:25 Mon.-Tues.: 7:05, 9:25

TWILIGHT SAGA:

NEW MOON (PG-13) Fri. & Wed.: 4:45, 7:10, 9:35 Sat.-Sun.: 1:10, 4:45, 7:10, 9:35 Mon.-Tues.: 7:10, 9:35

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MANUFACTURED HOMES

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AGRICULTURAL SERVICES

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Sat., Dec. 19, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Thurs., Dec. 24, 5 - 9 p.m.

Outside Angler’s Inn

Follow the Leader

(PG-13) Fri. & Wed.: 5:00, 8:00; Sat.-Sun.: 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 Mon.-Tues.: 8:00

Starting Wed., Dec. 23

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS:

THE SQUEAKQUEL (PG) Wed.: 5:00, 7:00, 9:00

CHECK WEB SITE FOR SHOW TIMES: www.evergreen-entertainment.com

Thank You

Thank you to the following organizations and businesses for their support putting on the “Sight for Jenna” benefits.

Balsam Lutheran Church, Thrivent Financial, Trollhaugen, Sherrad’s Resort, Bobbie’s World. All of the many businesses who donated money and items, St. Croix Falls School District, Lions Club & Lionesses and anonymous contributions.

Our family, friends, co-workers for their time and endless support for helping us try and make Jenna’s dreams for sight a possibility. Please continue to watch and read the newspaper for Jenna’s updates as she and her father travel to China in January for Jenna’s journey for sight.

Jenna Frenette and family 502027 17Lp

DECEMBER 16, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Mariah Coen has been chosen Frederic Elementary School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Kristy Hutton and Daniel Coen. Mariah is an excellent student who always puts others first. She enjoys math, singing and coloring. When Mariah grows up she would like to help preserve the rain forest and take care of the animals.

Zach Williamson has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Sonja and Scott Williamson. Zach has an excellent personality, gets along with all people and has a very good work ethic. He is involved in church youth group, soccer, football and basketball. Zach enjoys hunting and playing sports. He plans to go to college to become a French professor.

Isabel Lexen has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a junior and the daughter of Kyle and Kathy Lexen. Isabel is a very talented student, excellent citizen and involved in school and community activities. She is in choir, band, AODA, bell choir, show choir and volleyball. Isabel enjoys piano and singing. She plans on attending college for music education.

Bruce Lindau has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in first grade and the son of Thomas and Debra Lindau. Bruce is very kind and helpful to his classmates. He always does his best.

Bruce likes to do his reading-center word work. At recess he likes playing on the Spiderweb and at lunch his favorite is the chocolate pudding. He also enjoys playing with his dog Brownie.

Jenna Michel has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. She is a freshman and the daughter of Tim and Jennifer Michel. Jenna is a positive and hardworking student. She goes out of her way to help others and is well liked and respected by her peers. Jenna is involved in Girl Scouts and baby-sitting. She enjoys scrapbooking and spending time with family and friends.

She wants to become an OB nurse.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

Elizabeth Godden has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Kristopher and Linda Godden.

Elizabeth comes to school every day with a bright, positive attitude, ready to learn. She is an excellent worker and fun to be around.

Lizzy’s favorite subject is music.

She enjoys playing with friends and building snow forts.

Tyler Kuettel has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Donna and Ron Hoff and Christopher Kuettel. Tyler has a happy, positive attitude and shows kindness toward his classmates. His favorite class is social studies and he really enjoys phy ed. Tyler is active after school skateboarding, riding bike and hanging out with friends.

Samantha Fenning has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of John and Kristi Fenning.

Samantha is a responsible, reliable and kind student. She smiles easily and always looks for the good things happening in class. Samantha is involved in FCCLA, volleyball, volunteers at Ruby’s Pantry and works at Olsen and Son Drugstore. She enjoys playing volleyball, singing and being outside. Samantha plans to attend college for psychology or special ed.

Kalley Lunsmann has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Debbie and Patrick Lunsmann. Kalley is a hard worker who always comes to class with a smile on her face.

She has a friendly and fun personality. Kalley is involved in band, choir and volleyball. She enjoys camping, hunting, scrapbooking, shopping and spending time with her family.

Ann Nelson has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in first grade and the daughter of Darron and Melanie Nelson. Ann enjoys going to the school library. She likes to play in her backyard with her brother, Ben. Ann enjoys gymnastics and had a wonderful time at a museum that she would like to visit again. Ann is a lot of fun and has a great smile

Samantha Mackenberg has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week.

She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Tracy and Jeff Heinz and David Mackenberg. Samantha is involved in Forensics and enjoys swimming, drawing, knee boarding and playing in the snow.

Her favorite subject is art. Sam is an excellent student, very hardworking, conscientious and always completes her assignments on time.

Zach Christenson has been chosen St. Croix Falls High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Randy and Tawny Christenson. Zach has two sisters, Kalli and McKenzie, and a brother, Payton. He likes to fish, hunt and play sports.

Zach is involved in basketball, baseball, football and SPARKS.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Laura Carlson has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Teri Carlson.

Laura is a conscientious student who likes to do well at her school work. Her favorite subject is math.

Laura likes to listen to music and likes horses. This is Laura’s first year at Siren Middle School and she fits in superbly and enjoys her teachers.

Zach Howard has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Victoria Johnson. Zach has made the “A” honor roll and is vice president of the SHE club. He has a great sense of humor and outgoing personality.

His dedication for friends and his beliefs are strong and commendable. Zach enjoys writing poetry and making music. He plans on going to college to become a firefighter.

Winter Messer has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in kindergarten and the daughter of Michelle Geisler and Russ Messer. Winter is a joy to have in class, excited to learn new things and is always willing to help others. She enjoys using the SMART Board and learning about the letter Bb. At home she likes to sing and dance to Hannah Montana.

Emma Olsen has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Kathy and Matt Olsen. Emma works very hard on her assignments and she is always prepared for class.

Emma is friendly and always willing to help. She also has a good sense of humor. Emma is active in Girl Scouts, participates in school plays and plays the flute in band.

John Elmgren has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of John and Jodi Elmgren.

John is a hard worker and gets things done in class and is pleasant to be around. He was one of the leaders in charge of getting the FORGE project completed for the Forts Folle Avione. John is involved in cross country. He enjoys trucks and tractors. He plans on becoming a diesel mechanic.

UNITY

Proudly Supporting Our Students Electricity • Propane 1-800-421-0283 www.polkburnett.com

Supporting our area students and their accomplishments.

INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Stop In or Call Us Today

2547 State Road 35, Luck, Wis. (in the Evergreen Plaza)

715-472-4088 www.sterlingbank.ws

If You Would Like To Be A Sponsor Of

STUDENT OF THE WEEK Please Call 715-327-4236

Kevin Paulson has been chosen Unity Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in fourth grade and the son of Gene and Kim Paulson. Kevin has a wonderful attitude and always displays exemplary behavior. He is a hard worker who is always willing to lend a hand. Kevin enjoys drawing and listening to music.

Tess Anderson has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Dawn Swanson. Tess works hard and has a positive attitude. She is doing an outstanding job, and is an all-around great student.

Marisa Hacker has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. She is a junior and the daughter of Brad and Mary Jo Hacker. Marisa is active in volleyball, basketball and softball. She enjoys hunting, fishing, boating and snowboarding.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 16, 2009

EVERY MONDAY Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

EVERY WEDNESDAY Frederic

• TOPS weekly meeting at Comforts of Home, 5:30 p.m.

Osceola

Siren

Coming events

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Cribbage at the senior center from 9-11:30 a.m.

THURSDAY/24 Balsam Lake

• Carriage rides with Santa outside Angler’s Inn, 5-9 p.m., 715-566-0566.

Frederic

• Senior center closed.

• TOPS weekly meeting at Trinity Lutheran Church, 8:30 a.m., 715-755-3123, 715-2943987.

Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf closed.

EVERY THURSDAY

St. Croix Falls

• The senior center closed.

Siren

FRI.-SUN./25-27

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

DECEMBER

• “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at Festival Theatre. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, www.festivaltheatre.org.

WED.-FRI./16-18

FRIDAY/25

Webster

• Interfaith Caregivers rummage sale at the fire hall, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Frederic

• Senior center closed.

THURS.-SUN./17-20

SATURDAY/26

St. Croix Falls

Frederic

• “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at Festival Theatre. Thurs. 2 & 7:30 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, www.festivaltheatre.org.

• Noon buffet and cards and games after refreshments at the senior center.

MONDAY/28

THURSDAY/17

Balsam Lake

• H1N1 & seasonal flu vaccine clinic at the government center, 1-4 p.m., 715-485-8500.

Amery

• Polk County Democratic Party meeting/ election at the Village Pizzeria. 5:30 p.m. social hour/dinner; 7 p.m. election, 715-327-5637.

Balsam Lake

• Infant/child class at Polk County Red Cross office, 5:30-9:30 p.m., 715-485-3025, www.scvarc.org.

Frederic

• 500 cards at the senior center at 6:30 p.m.

• Food shelf, 2-6 p.m.

Milltown

• Second-grade concert at Unity school auditorium, 7 p.m.

This sun dog was spotted from just north of Luck on Tuesday morning. Also known as a mock sun, a sun dog is an atmospheric phenomenon that creates bright spots of light in the sky, often in a luminous ring or halo on either side of the sun. They are formed by hexagonal ice crystals in high and cold cirrus clouds or - during very cold weather - by ice crystals called diamond dust drifting in the air at a low level, according to wikipedia.com. - Photo by Rob Harris

SAT. & SUN./19 & 20 Grantsburg

Osceola

• High school Holiday Indulgence Concert at Crex Convention Center, Sat. 6-8 p.m.; Sun. 35 p.m.

Siren

SATURDAY/19

• Registration for River Valley Swim Club at the middle school, 6-8 p.m., 715-338-1295.

• Cribbage at the senior center from 9-11:30 a.m.

• Fifth- and sixth-grade band and choir Christmas program, 2 p.m.

• Burnett County Family Resources family fun night, 6-7 p.m., 715-349-2922.

St. Croix Falls

• Exercise 10-11 a.m., Skip-Bo 11 a.m., blood pressures 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., general meeting (potluck) 12:30 p.m. and 500 cards 6:30 p.m. at the senior center, 715-483-1901.

FRI. & SAT./18 & 19 Amery

• Walk Thru Bethlehem at First Lutheran Church. Fri. 6-9 p.m., Sat. 2-5 p.m.

FRIDAY/18

Balsam Lake

• Carriage rides with Santa outside Angler’s Inn, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 715-566-0566.

Frederic

• Noon buffet and cards and games after refreshments at the senior center.

• Sleigh rides at Larsen Auto, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 715-327-4217.

Grantsburg

Frederic

• Frederic Evangelical Free Church Christmas tea, 9:15-11:15 a.m.

• Pokeno played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

Grantsburg

• Elementary Christmas concert at the high school, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Siren

• Fish fry at Burnett County Moose Lodge, 5:307:30 p.m., 715-349-5923.

St. Croix Falls

Amery

• Monroe Crossing & Alzen Family Bluegrass Gospel Christmas concerts at the high school, 3 & 7 p.m., 715-268-7864.

• Christmas with the Troops event at WPCA Radio, 9 a.m., 715-268-9722.

• Northern Lakes Center for the Arts presents “Joy to the World,” 7:30 p.m., 715-2686811.

• Bridge 10 a.m. and Bingo 1 p.m. at the senior center, 715-483-1901.

• Family Christmas program at the public library, 10:30-11:30 a.m., 715-463-2244.

Siren

• Burnett County Moose Lodge’s Christmas party, 2-4 p.m.

Star Prairie

• Steve Gamble in concert at Star Prairie Town Hall, 7 p.m., 715-483-9202.

St. Croix Falls

• Poet LaMoine MacLaughlin to read at the library, 10 a.m., 715-483-1777.

Frederic

• Spades played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Food shelf, 2-6 p.m.

Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

TUESDAY/29 Balsam Lake

Trade Lake

• Old-fashioned Christmas program at Swedish Mission Church. 6 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. program.

• H1N1 & seasonal flu vaccine clinic at the government center, 9 a.m.-noon, 715-485-8500.

Danbury

SUNDAY/20

• Ravishing Rubies Red Hat Society luncheon at Wild Waters, noon.

• Kids church Christmas program at Woodland Church, 6 p.m., 715-558-6789.

• Exercise 10-11 a.m., Skip-Bo 11 a.m. and 500 cards and Dominos 12:30 p.m. at the senior center, 715-483-1901.

St. Croix Falls

Dairyland Frederic

WEDNESDAY/30

• High school holiday concert, 2 p.m.

Siren

• The Bells of Christmas will be performed at the Siren Assembly of God Church at 7 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• Breakfast at the American Legion, 8 a.m.noon.

MONDAY/21 • Spades played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Food shelf, 2-6 p.m.

• Grades 7-8 holiday concert, 7 p.m.

Siren

THURSDAY/31 • Senior center closed. No cards.

Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• 500 cards 6:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve potluck party at 6 p.m. at the senior center, 715-4831901.

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

TUESDAY/22 St. Croix Falls

• Exercise 10-11 a.m., Skip-Bo 11 a.m. and 500 cards and Dominos 12:30 p.m. at the senior center, 715-483-1901.

Webster

• Christmas party at the senior center, 11:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY/23

JANUARY FRIDAY/1 Frederic

• Potluck at the senior center at noon. Cards, Bingo or Pokeno to follow.

St. Croix Falls

• Pokeno played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

Dd Week at Webster

Siren

• Cribbage at the senior center from 9-11:30 a.m.

Frederic

Frederic

Frederic

Frederic

• Pokeno played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• The senior center closed.

Warmest wishes for a safe & joyous holiday season.

St. Croix Valley Funeral Home & Polk County Cremation Society 2012 U.S. Hwy. 8, St. Croix Falls, Wis.

A.J. Flatten and Dane Tollander are holding the sign they made. – Photos submitted

For Dd Week, the Webster kindergartens frosted donuts and invited dads in for a visit. Shown is Madison Hora and Great-Grandpa Harold.

715-483-JANE (5263)

501975 17Lp

From Jane Austin & Family