Leader|Dec 23|2008

T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 3 , 2 0 0 8 • V O L U M E 7 6 • N O . 1 8 • 2 S E C T I O N S • 8 , 0 0 0 C O P I E S • S E C T I O N A

Merry Christmas! from the crew at the Leader

IN SI DE

Leader INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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GAM is making money

State funding increases for ‘09; board to look at building’s needs PAGE 3

No Wal-Mart for Spooner

Habitat family in new home for Christmas Page 20

E xp r e ss - i ve s mi l e

After three years of discussion and delays, Wal-Mart withdraws plans PAGE 4

A long road

Proud grandmother awaits inaugural Parade CURRENTS FEATURE

Congressman Dave Obey sees no quick fix for country’s economic woes PAGE 3

9 or 11?

Siren School seeks input on how to proceed with its football program PAGE 4

Maintenance saves $ Really old news Page 5

Burnett County highway commissioner urges towns to look at road maintenance versus replacement PAGE 12

Students evacuated

Grantsburg principal acts after hearing threat PAGE 2 Gingerbread houses... and a church Currents, page 12

S PO RT S

Construction continues on pellet plant

Grantsburg Elementary third-grader Alethea Simmons peaks out from the window of the school’s Polar Express train during the special Polar Express Morning held for parents and students on Dec. 17. More photos in Currents section. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer

Mar ley...the puppy, not the ghos t

February opening expected despite delays due to weather; 850 have applied PAGE 3

Communication system update begins in Burnett Committee looks at using cell phone towers PAGE 6 Local gymnasts compete at St. Croix Falls See Sports, inside this section

Early copy, please See deadlines in ad PAGE 7

This pointer/beagle/German wirehair puppy seems to be suffering from hoiday season stress. Marley, photographer Erik Barstow’s new puppy, was sleepy enough to make a good model for this photograph. Marley (as in the Dickens’ character Marley’s Ghost in “A Christmas Carol”) is usually quite a bit livelier. - Photo by Erik Barstow

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Leader

Suspected threat leads to evacuation of students

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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Grantsburg Police Officer Dan Wald directed traffic and personnel making sure the area around Grantsburg High School was secured and the public kept back during a suspected threat to the high school on Friday, Dec. 19. DNR Warden Todd Hintz was also on the scene as part of the joint law enforcement operation, which included the Grantsburg Police Department, the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department, and the state patrol.

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Grantsburg High School students had a chilly walk back to the high school last Friday afternoon after being evacuated to the middle school when information on a suspected threat on the school was received. Students had no chance to get their coats or other personal belongings before their evacuation, so were happy to get back to the high school when it was determined the threat was not real.

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Superintendent Joni Burgin talked with a relieved Grantsburg High School teacher, Jay Gilhoi, just after the all clear was given on a suspected threat to the high school Friday afternoon.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Grader strikes power pole, catches fifirre

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by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG – It was the last day of classes before Christmas vacation and Grantsburg High School students were counting the hours last Friday afternoon just waiting to get out of school.

Students did get out of the high school a little earlier, but not in the way they expected. When a perceived bomb threat to the school was overheard and reported to Principal Stan Marczak he ordered the immediate evacuation of students to the middle school.

Marczak said he received potential notification at around 1 p.m. on Marczak Friday afternoon of a conversation in school overheard by a student which Marczak later described as “some chatter about something blowing up.”

“The prudent cause of action was to evacuate the students and search the entire school.”

“We needed to check as fast as we could,” Marczak explained at a briefing held after the all clear was given and students had returned to the high school from their over-an-hour stay at the middle school.

Marczak addressed the student body in the high school commons after their return praising them for the great job they did during the incident. “I appreciate how you all reacted,” Marczak told students. “The students knew it wasn’t a drill and they did exactly what they should have, they followed procedures to the letter,” Marczak later commented. Marczak told students to enjoy the rest of the day offering them ice cream treats and some extra free time for games and music.

Marczak said there will be a review of the incident and said there are no known problems at the school.

“Even though the threat wasn’t real, in this society we have to follow procedures. I have to keep these kids safe.”

Superintendent Joni Burgin commented on the bomb threat, saying a student reported to office personnel he overheard it in the halls. “The evacuation was a precautionary measure following our safety procedures,” said Burgin. Despite rumors to the contrary, Burgin said no arrests were made in the incident.

Calls to the school from anxious parents came in after students used their cell phones to tell their families of the threat and evacuation. Parents were told all the high school students had been safely evacuated to the middle school and doors at all the district schools had been locked in accordance with the procedures followed for this type of situation.

Grantsburg Police Officer Dan Wald was first on the scene when the threat was reported. The Grantsburg Police Department handled the investigation with support from Burnett County Deputies and the state patrol.

Northwestern Wisconsin Electric Company crews were out Monday, Dec. 22, repairing an electric pole on Hanson Avenue between Hwy. 70 and Bradley Street that was hit by a grader owned by the village of Siren. The accident took place at 5:40 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, and power to residents in the village was out for about a half hour.

RIGHT: Four tires, two on each side of a grader owned by the village of Siren, went flat following the collision between the grader and an electric pole at 5:40 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. One of the tires on the right side of the vehicle started on fire, and members of the Siren Fire Department as well as the Siren Police officer on duty responded to the scene. The grader was hauled to the Burnett County Highway Department shop, where the tires will be replaced and an insurance representative will inspect the vehicle. - Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Briefly POLK COUNTY – The Polk County Sheriff’s office has added a new feature to the sheriff’s office Web site at www.co.polk.wi.us/law/. The site now offers a link to the daily jail roster for all inmates. This list is updated each day at 6 a.m. and lists the charges that the defendant was booked under, which are not always the charges filed by the Polk County District Attorney’s office, according to Sheriff Tim Moore. The link is alphabetized by last name. The inmate population changes every hour with releases and new arrests but it is not possible to update the site hourly. But, notes Sheriff Moore, the roster is updated every morning “to provide the citizens of this county with as much information as possible.” – with information from Polk Co. Sheriff’s Dept.

••• Late death notices Rickey Bill Smith, 3 months, of Grantsburg, died at the Pine Medical Center in Pine City, Minn. on Friday, Dec. 19. Rickey is survived by his father, Rickey Lee Smith, mother Jillian Lagunes-Rivera, brothers, Jeorge, Louis and Matthew, paternal grandmother Dot Smith, maternal grandmother Syna Brown, uncles aunts and counsins.

Private family services have been planned. The Edling Funeral Home of Grantsburg is entrusted with arrangements.

•••

Silly Supper planned at Bone Lake TOWN OF BONE LAKE - The youth at Bone Lake Lutheran Church of rural Luck are hosting a Silly Supper on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 5 p.m. to raise funds for the 2009 mission trip.

Everyone is welcome to join them for fun and surprises. Due to limited seating, please call now to make a reservation at 715-472-2535. - with submitted information

Memorial service Tuesday for Duane Fisk

FREDERIC - A memorial service for Duane Michael Fisk, 53, of Frederic, who died Dec. 22, will be held Tuesday, Dec. 30, at Trade Lake Baptist Church.

Visitation will be at 10 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m. service.

Seasonal home destroyed by fire

JACKSON TOWNSHIP – An earlymorning fire on Tuesday, Dec. 16, destroyed a seasonal home on Thompson Bay Road in Jackson Township. Burnett County Deputy Steve Sacharski was patrolling on CTH A, near the Voyager Supperette at 7:54 a.m. when he noticed a lot of smoke from the southeast side of North Sand Lake. He was able to determine that the fire was on Thompson Bay Road, and drove to the location. The structure was already fully engulfed in flames and had been burning for sometime.

Scott Fire Department was the first on the scene. Jackson and Webb Lake Fire Departments also responded to the fire, but they were unable to save the structure.

Owner of the property, Shawn Donahue from Mounds View, Minn., was not there at the time of the fire. He reported that the only things running at the time of the fire were the furnace and heat tape in the garage.

Sacharski noticed footprints coming from the road to the garage and back, but it has not been determined when the prints were made or if they were at all connected to the fire.

Jackson Fire Chief Dave Formanek reported that the cause of the fire was undetermined, but it is not officially under investigation.

No injuries were reported. - Sherill Summer

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

GAM is making money

State funding increases for 2009; board starts to look at building needs

by Gregg Westigard AMERY – “We have been through a battle, it caused stress, it has ended,” Eugene Sollman, Golden Age Manor Board member said at the governing board’s meeting Wednesday, Dec. 17.

“Let’s put it behind us and start fresh.

We have an obligation to care for the residents.”

The courts have blocked the sale of the Polk County nursing home in Amery. GAM in effect broke even in 2007 and will probably make money in 2008. The amount of state aid for the coming year is increasing. And the board is starting to look at the physical

needs of the 50-year-old building.

Golden Age Manor is coming out of a year-and-a-half state of limbo.

The board meeting Four of the five GAM Board members - Bob Dueholm, Patricia Schmidt, Gerald Newville and Eugene Sollman were present for the monthly governing board meeting along with two members of the public. The fifth board member, Fred Grimm, was recovering from planned back surgery. This was the first meeting after the Wisconsin Supreme Court had blocked the January 2008 sale of the home to a private party.

In addition to looking at current finances, future aid and building needs, the board spent a long time discussing an ongoing disagreement with the county finance department on what

Construction continues on pellet plant February opening expected despite delays due to weather

by Mary Stirrat CENTURIA — Construction is progressing on the 47,500-square-foot wood shavings and pellet plant in Centuria, despite some delays due to the cold and snow.

According to co-owner Michael Feist, High Quality Shavings is still expected to open as scheduled in February. Cold weather has slowed the pouring of concrete, he said, but a double pour is expected today, Dec. 23.

The north building of the complex, which will house the shaving machines and the wet shavings, already has the

steel siding and roof on, the water and sewer hooked up, and the plumbing roughed in.

Feist noted that last December was an average of 7 degrees warmer, which has affected construction, and that there has been snow 17 of the last 24 days.

More than 1,000 applications were given out, he said, and about 850 returned. Interviews have begun, with an estimated 150 personal interviews conducted by the end of the week.

Contracts have been finalized for selling the product, according to Feist, and log prices have been locked in.

He also said that a business in Grantsburg will be producing the wood pallets needed at High Quality Shavings, which will be another boost to local employment.

Former Amery man faces up to 40 years in prison

BARRON COUNTY – A 22-year-old Baldwin man, formerly of Amery, faces up to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a girl under the age of 16.

Jeremiah W. Paquin, according to police reports, had sex with a girl outside a Barron County residence May 31.

Also charged is Jeremy D. Falz, 20, New Richmond, who pleaded guilty to two counts of lewd and lascivious behavior, two counts of fourth-degree sexual assault and a count of exposing his genitals.

Falz was sentenced by Judge Timothy Doyle. Falz was placed on probation for four years, which includes nine months in jail. He must receive sex offender and drug and alcohol treatment and pay restitution and court costs.

Paquin is is scheduled for a court

appearance on Oct. 29.

Police reports state that Paquin and Falz threw pinecones and sticks at the window of a Turtle Lake residence the early-morning hours of May 31. A 12year-old girl recognized the men and went outside, where Paquin had sexual intercourse with her in a playhouse.

Falz and Paquin eventually went into the house, where they both sexually assaulted the 12-year-old and a 14-yearold girl. – with information from Eau Claire Leader-Telegram

Follow the Leader.

invoice copies need to be sent from Amery to Balsam Lake. The issue, which apparently involves a change in what documentation finance wants before paying invoices, has gone on for several months and has included a finance committee meeting with the GAM Director Gary Taxdahl and board

See GAM, page 4

Obey sees long road ahead of economic woes D.C. – WASHINGTON, Wisconsin’s senior member of Congress says people hoping for a quick fix for the world’s economy are in for a disappointment.

Congressman Dave Obey says quick action by the Bush administration and Congress averted an economic “death spiral,” but it could take years to climb out of the morass.

The Democrat from northern Wisconsin has been through a few recessions since taking office in 1969.

“I never thought I would see the threats to this economy as large as they are today,” he says. “We barely averted having a gigantic financial catastrophe in September when almost overnight the entire financial system could have collapsed worldwide.”

Obey says he believes the economy has stabilized but not without huge upheavals. He expects the jobless rate to rise beyond 7 percent in the next 18 months. Counting the underemployed, that figure could go as high as 15 percent.

“The economists who I respect tell me this is going to last a long time,” continues Obey. “They tell me we certainly will not be out of the woods two years from now. If things get out of hand, it could last a whole lot longer.”

Obey says President Bush acted quickly to help banking and Wall Street, but has been immobilized when it comes to helping the middle class. But he says the solution has to be bipartisan cooperation.

“This is serious stuff. You can’t be making decisions about what we do on the basis of what our political ideology is, or on the basis of which groups in society we like and which groups we don’t. This is a very dicey situation.”

Obey says the situation isn’t as bad as the Great Depression, because of the safety nets of Social Security, unemployment compensation and Medicare. But he says this is the worst situation since Hoover was president. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Mike Simonson)

Virtual schools advocate enters DPI race STATEWIDE – At least four candidates are campaigning to become Wisconsin’s next State Superintendent of Public Instruction. One championed the effort earlier this year to save virtual schools in Wisconsin.

Rose Fernandez has filed paperwork with the state’s Government Accountability Board formally paving the way for her candidacy. Fernandez headed up the Wisconsin Coalition of Virtual Schools Families this year. She led a grassroots lobbying push to maintain public funding for virtual schools in Wisconsin after a court ruling put that funding in doubt.

Virtual schools are sort of a hybrid between home schooling and traditional brick-and-mortar institutions, where parents work together with teachers via the Internet to instruct kids at home.

Rose Fernandez, at January’s rally for virtual schools legislation.

- Photo by Brian Bull

Also running to become Wisconsin’s next schools chief is Lowell Holtz, the Beloit School District Superintendent; Van Mobley, an Associate Professor of History and Economics at Concordia University; and Tony Evers, who is Wisconsin’s Deputy Superintendent.

Evers has the support of current State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster, who announced in October that she would not seek re-election after her term ends next summer.

The state superintendent is officially a nonpartisan position, although Burmaster has enjoyed the support of Democrats. She’s also been backed by WEAC – the state’s largest teachers union – the group that filed the original lawsuit that spurred the virtual schools fight. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Plans for Wal-Mart store cancelled

by Regan Kohler SPOONER – After three years of discussion, extensions and delays, a WalMart Super Center will not be coming to Spooner.

Wal-Mart had been working with the city of Spooner, Washburn County and the Department of Transportation on building a store on CTH H, between Hwys. 53 and 63. The plan was announced in 2006, when a preliminary plat was approved. However, the store faced opposition from a citizens group, Washburn County First. WCF was concerned that a Wal-Mart would take business away from local merchants and that it wouldn’t live up to what representatives promised. They were also worried that the city and county would end up covering costs for the project.

WCF filed two lawsuits, one against the county saying it had violated openmeeting laws when it sold the land to Wal-Mart, and one against the city’s board of appeals, saying they didn’t discuss the matter in full. One of the lawsuits was settled out of court, and the other was withdrawn.

Meanwhile, the company filed extensions on completing a developer’s agreement. It was currently on its seventh and eighth. The county had asked that for every extension, Wal-Mart pay a fee of around $30,000.

To this date, Wal-Mart had not given any money to the county or city for the land, which was set at $900,000. Also, the company met with the city and county a few months ago to let them know the project had gone about $1 million over budget. The government had been working with the company on ways to help reduce the costs, including

fewer infrastructure improvements or financing through a tax-increment district, as the store would have been located in one of Spooner’s TIDs. A couple of weeks ago, the county’s executive committee said they had reappraised the land value at the site, and found it could be lowered about $80,000. The county board was to discuss it Tuesday night, but it was not on the agenda due to an error.

Spooner Mayor Gary Cuskey said around that time he had not heard from Wal-Mart’s representatives, which county board Chair Micheal Bobin confirmed at the board meeting Tuesday night.

Wednesday, Dec. 17, Bobin said that Wal-Mart had issued a press release saying it was not coming to Spooner. Bobin said he found out around 3 p.m. that day.

Bobin said they will have to negotiate the extension fee payback, which the city attorney estimated at around $120,000 now.

Bobin said there is a timetable for readvertising the property for sale, as it is in a TIF district and the clock is running on it. The city will need to discuss this, and improvements to CTH H that were also brought up, he said.

According to a press release from Wal-Mart’s Public Affairs Department, a corporate plan to moderate growth of its Super Centers in the United States led the company to withdraw the plans.

Public affairs senior manager Lisa Nelson, who has been a liaison between Washburn County and Wal-Mart, was cited in the release as explaining that their decision is part of a corporate strategy to improve sales and produc-

tivity within all stores in the nation. It has nothing to do with Spooner’s retail market appeal, nor with the level of cooperation in the city, she said.

“While the decision is appropriate from a business standpoint, we remain impressed with Spooner’s business potential and grateful to local officials and staff for their diligent work on behalf of the community,” Nelson said.

“They have been very professional, and we have enjoyed working with them.”

Cuskey said that he spoke to Nelson, who was very apologetic, and that she told him due to economic trends, the company was rethinking the Spooner project for now, and it was canceled.

“This is not on hold,” Cuskey said.

“It’s over.”

Cuskey said he felt this was an unfortunate thing, developmentwise and jobwise, as other new businesses would most likely have followed Wal-Mart to that site.

“It’s good we know … and we can move forward,” he added.

Cuskey said he does not know of any potential buyers for the land at that site, but that no matter what, TID financing can still be used to loop the water through that area, and realign CTH A with CTH H, two infrastructure improvements that were part of the infrastructure plans. Cuskey said that these two improvements had been on the radar long before Wal-Mart came into the picture, going back as far as when the new high school looked at that land, and will have to be done eventually.

WCF Chair Steve Carlson said, “It’s not surprising to me that Wal-Mart decided to withdraw their plans for

St. Croix Tribe gets $131,219 in law enforcement grants

SIREN – Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen this week announced the awarding of $131,219 in state Tribal Law Enforcement Grants to the St. Croix Chippewa.

The grant program is designed to assist with the unique law enforcement challenges on Native American lands in Wisconsin.

“This grant program has helped tribes enhance law enforcement efforts on tribal lands,” said Van Hollen. “This funding will assist Native American communities in reducing gang, drug and violent crime which have been particularly

vexing problems for tribes in recent years.”

The grant program funds a variety of law enforcement services to Native American communities across Wisconsin. Grants have been used for the costs of law enforcement personnel, patrol, investigation, body armor and uniforms, crime prevention and information technology. Awards have also funded law enforcement training, communications equipment, armories, community programs and emergency/rescue equipment. A majority of

the grants fund tribal police department personnel costs.

Grant awards are allocated using a formula consisting of three criteria: Native American population; county crime rate; and tribal unemployment rate. This year’s funding of nine programs represents the largest number of tribal plans funded in the four years that the Wisconsin Department of Justice has administered the program. – from the office of Attorney General Van Hollen

date are up about $600,000 from last year, including the extra $343,000 and expenses are up about $30,000.

Dueholm pointed out that there are more payrolls coming in December and there will be end-of-the-year audit adjustments. With all that, he is projecting a gain for the year of $300,000. For a number of years through 2006, GAM was losing money, generating losses that needed to be covered, after the fact, by the county.

The county finance department is reporting an even better picture for GAM. The monthly financial report to the county board for the period through Nov. 30 lists $294,289 more revenue for GAM and $59,789 less expenses. The finance department lists a year-to-date gain for GAM of $1,011,366, an increase of $354,079 over GAM’s own figures.

Even the final numbers for 2007 look better than reported last spring. The auditors wrote off some $103,000 in debts last year but some of that money is being recovered. A claim from the state relating to an inspection-related forfeiture was set at $30,000 but settled at $7,000. And an unpaid patient bill of $54,000 is now in probate court and may be collected.

Future state/federal payments A major source of GAM funding comes from the Supplemental Payment Program, a federal program administered through the state to help government-owned nursing homes make up the unreimbursed cost of serving Medicaid residents. Incorrectly called the IGT or ITP money, this money is awarded each December.

GAM will get a $718,000 SP award the coming year to cover the estimated 2008/09 (July thru June) Medicaid deficit. That is up $21,279 over the previous year. Of this amount, GAM will get an initial payment this December, $15,000 more than it got last December.

Spooner.”

Carlson said that, considering the DOT was standing firm on a decision to close the median at Hwy. 53 and CTH H, allowing right-turn in and out only from the highway and Wal-Mart, and that there wouldn’t be an interchange, “enthusiasm for the project started to wane.

“When the economic downturn hit last fall, that was probably the end of things,” Carlson said. “Maybe now our local officials, and [economic and industrial development] offices, can start working together to bring some truly good jobs to Washburn County and Spooner.”

One Spooner resident said she was very disappointed, as her daughter and a friend both work at Rice Lake’s WalMart and were hoping to relocate at Spooner’s store to eliminate commuting.

Siren School needs football input

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Siren School District is faced with making the decision to go from 11-person to nine-person football. The school board is asking for input from people in the community before they make this important decision.

The board discussed the situation at its Dec. 22 meeting. A community meeting had been held before this, with only a few people attending.

They need to hear from more people as they, like a lot of other school districts, are struggling with how to make this decision.

The school Web site at www.siren.k12.wi.us/ provides a link (Football Program Proposal) with information on how the people can get their feelings to the board. Those who are not computer literate are urged to call the school at 715-3492277 or write to the district at P.O. Box 29, Siren 54872.

“We really want to hear as much as we can before the board makes the decision (needing to be done by the end of January 2009),” said district Administrator Scott Johnson. “Let us know somehow whatever you are comfortable with. This is a pretty important decision.”

GAM/from page 3 Chair Dueholm. Some of the issues involve the time spent in copying detailed bills, patient confidentiality regarding items in the bills, and who is responsible for payment authorization during audits. Many hours have been spent on the issue now during a number of meetings of each committee plus staff hours. Things may be getting resolved.

Taxdahl reported that the home operated at a 91.73-percent occupancy rate in November. That is down from the 96percent rate that was the norm before the sale was proposed last winter but higher than the rate during the time of uncertainty over the summer. The monthly occupancy rate for the year dropped from a high of 96.28 percent in February to a low of 87.89 percent in July.

Current finances The GAM financial statement for Nov. 30 shows a year-to-date net income of $657,287, up from the November 2007 figure of $85,643. (The 2007 numbers exclude a $643,150 transfer from the county general fund. All these numbers exclude the depreciation expense.)

Included in this profit is a one-time state additional payment of $343,121, an allocation of funds that should have been disbursed in the past. Revenues year to

Building needs “The nursing home must be brought up to code,” area resident James Drabek told the committee. “There are singlepain windows in resident rooms that are leaking heat. That is dollar bills going right out the windows.”

“We need to move forward with the building projects,” Sollman said at the meeting. “We need to identify the projects, look at the costs, rank the needs and decide how to pay for the work.”

The Golden Age Manor building is close to 50 years old. Taxdahl presented a report, GAM Future Capital Needs, in

June 2007. Projects identified include windows in the facility, carpeting and roof repairs. An energy-efficiency study has been started [The GAM building was not included in the Johnson Control energy program seven years ago that looked at energy use in some county buildings.] which may turn up more needed building needs.

Taxdahl says in his report that the capital costs are reimbursed by Medicaid and that borrowing money for capital improvements is outside the property-tax levy cap.

Repairing the present home may not be the best option if some projections for the future of nursing homes are considered. There is a shift to alternate forms of care, including a new state initiative that looks at community options for the care of the elderly.

“Nursing homes will look very different in the next 10 years,” the Ecumen report on GAM, dated December 2006 concluded. “The nursing home will be a smaller complex delivering more specialized care. Tomorrow’s nursing home customers want more independence, private rooms, choice in everything they do and the feeling that where they live is not an institution.”

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Special education to have separate classroom at Luck

by Mary Stirrat LUCK — The growing population of special students at Luck Schools led the school board of education last week to approve establishing a “self-contained classroom” for these students. The classroom will be up and running by the fourth quarter of this school year, in preparation for 2009-10.

“We have an increasing number of kids that don’t fit the mainstream classroom,” Kristi Fenning, director of special education and school psychologist, told the board at its Dec. 17 meeting.

While these students still need the social interaction of the regular classroom, and can usually participate easily in art, music and physical education, said Fenning, they have different needs in the core curriculum areas.

In addition, she said, a significant percentage of the special needs students have some level of autism, which means they are more successful in a very structured environment. This type of environment can be provided in a self-contained classroom, with cubicles for each student and a regimented schedule.

Special needs students are currently mainstreamed in the classroom, accompanied by an aide, or are transported to another district that offers what the need. Mainstreaming works in some situations, said Fenning, but sometimes the behavioral issues are too distracting for the other students.

The hope, she said, is to be able to concentrate on behavioral skills so that the majority of the students can be mainstreamed by third grade.

When asked if there would be any cost savings in establishing the special classroom, district Administrator Rick Palmer said he didn’t think so.

“It’s not necessarily going to be a costsaving measure,” he said. “I don’t think we’ll be hurt by it, either. I think we will be able to maintain our costs.”

Transportation costs are high, he said,

noting that students are currently transported to Amery and Unity for school.

Elementary Principal John Nichols said that they are looking at an upstairs classroom, possibly the LD classroom, to convert into the self-contained classroom. Impact on other classrooms will be minimal, he said, because it is somewhat isolated, and it is near a restroom.

Eventually, added, Palmer, a “living skills” area may be added, to provide basic instruction in safety regarding things like laundry and cooking.

Fenning also reported that the special education program at Luck recently underwent a 20-indicator assessment by the Department of Public Instruction.

There were five errors, she said, which is a good result, and those five areas are being addressed.

“The staff worked hard,” she said, “and they continue to work hard.”

Within the last few years, she and Palmer said, CESA stopped providing services to help transition special needs students at the age of 16 to post high school opportunities. The staff is being trained in this area, which includes identifying the interests of students as well as locating potential employers who may allow job shadowing.

Sixth-grade athletics After surveying parents of next year’s sixth-graders and talking with coaches, athletic Director Mark Gobler recommended that sixth-graders be allowed to participate in interscholastic athletics.

No action to the recommendation was taken because the item was not listed separately on the meeting agenda. It will be on the January board meeting agenda.

Exceptions to sixth-grade participation, Gobler recommended, would be football and volleyball. The reason for excluding football, said Gobler, is that there is a big maturity difference between sixth and eighth-grade boys.

Volleyball is excluded because there are enough players in the sixth grade, plus WIAA requires that the number of sports offered to boys and girls be equal.

For other sports — wrestling, basketball, track, baseball and softball — sixthgrade athletes would be required to have a physical to compete with seventh- and eighth-graders.

The change must be reported to WIAA, said Gobler, and a game/meet schedule needs to be developed.

The sixth-grade class schedule works well with the plan, according to Gobler, because they would have study hall at the end of the day. This time could be used for sports, or for nonathletes to take classes like health and keyboarding. These classes will be offered at another time to accommodate the athletes.

Vision committee The new school vision committee met early in December to brainstorm on the questions, “What do we want our students to be able to do when they graduate from here?” and “What does our school need to look like in order to achieve that vision?”

The committee includes a cross-section of teachers, administration, other staff and board members. Colleen Bielmeier is the chairperson, Janet Holdt is co-chair and Sherri Schaffer is secretary.

According to Palmer, the committee began with a discussion of both the strengths and the weaknesses of the district.

“We need to toot our horn better,” he said. The idea isn’t necessarily to recruit

new students, Palmer said, but to let the strengths of the district be known.

Among the strengths are the ability to gain and transfer college credits, the quality and variety of ITV classes, the help offered to special-needs students, and the fact that the district is good at teaching highly motivated students.

The next meeting will be Jan. 14.

Levy comparisons District Administrator Rick Palmer distributed a comparison of mill rates in CESA No. 11.

Of 12 area schools, Luck is seventh lowest, tied with Grantsburg at $8.60 per $1,000 in equalized value.

Districts with a higher mill rate include Shell Lake ($10.19), Amery ($10.07), Siren ($9.84), Clayton ($9.55), St. Croix Falls ($8.97), and Turtle Lake ($8.80).

Those with a lower mill rate are Webster ($5.16), Osceola ($7.93), Unity ($8.31), and Clear Lake ($8.42).

Frederic had no numbers listed in the comparison.

Community education Community Education Director Amy Aguado reported that National Community Education Day held Nov. 18 was very successful, with many local presenters and a positive response from students. She reviewed upcoming classes, saying, “We’re working on exercising both your brain and your body.”

The quilt raffle fundraiser for graduate scholarships is under way, said Aguado, and she is hoping for 100-percent participation from seniors.

1815 Connecticut Gazette

Girl Scout Service Unit visits Good Sam Kayeleen Ryan and Andrea Sheldon were two of the Lake O’ the Dalles Girl Scouts who got together to make tray favors for the residents of the Good Samaritan Home in St. Croix Falls. – Photos submitted

On Wednesday, Dec. 10, the Lake O’ the Dalles Girl Scouts Service Unit of St. Croix Falls gathered and sang to the residents of Good Samaritan Home.

Approximately 28 girls, ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade, sang Christmas carols and delivered the tray favors they had created.

Ken Java, a member of the Frederic Area Historical Society, holds a copy of the Connecticut Gazette. Jens Fossum received this copy of the Gazette, dated March 15, 1815, from a relative in Connecticut. The relative was doing some remodeling in their home and found several issues of this newspaper stuck in the rafters for insulation. The newspaper found its way to the Frederic Public Library where Java spends a lot of time.

Java is an avid reader and very interested in history so he began reading the articles. This is one article that tells it the way it was back then – “SIX CENTS REWARD – Ran away from the subscriber, on Sunday last, an indented apprentice boy, about 10 years of age, named John Newcomb, wore away a gray hat, brown coat, vest and pantaloons, whoever will return said boy, shall receive the above reward and no charges paid. – All persons are hereby forbid harboring, employing or trusting, said boy on penalty of the law. Zerubabel Wightman.” Java states another article of interest was the desertion of soldiers with a $50 reward for their return.

The article was referring to the period after the French and Indian War of 1812 where the U.S. tried to conquer Canada without success. That means this newspaper has survived for 193 years. - Special photo

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

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Planning for communication update begins

Committee attempts to fit cell phone coverage into overall plans

by Sherill Summer BURNETT COUNTY – Cell phone companies are asking to put up towers in Burnett County. Not only might this improve the cell phone coverage in Burnett County, some Burnett County supervisors wonder if this might be an opportunity for the county to partner with the cell phone companies in building the new towers the county needs before 2013.

To explore this opportunity, the first steering committee that must coordinate the county’s communication

update was held on Wednesday, Dec. 17. The communication consultant, Gary Therkelson, that Burnett County has hired to guide the county was asked if the public service communications system the county must build and the cell phone communications could work together and Burnett County could have a system that ensures both cell phone service and public safety.

Therkelson said first of all, yes, such a system could be coordinated, but it would cost much more than the estimated $3.4 million that the envisioned public safety system would cost, maybe even two or three or times as much.

Therkelson also cautioned that usually cell phone communication networks and public safety communication networks do not have the same goals in mind. Usually cell phone companies build up infrastructure to make a profit.

They are not interested in filling out coverage or making life easier for counties, whereas the counties are not in communications for profit but for public safety. They must fill out coverage in areas that are inconvenient or expensive to cover.

Having said that, Therkelson did think there might be opportunities to share towers with cell phone companies. Wherever possible, he warned, the government should own the structures, especially the critical sights. This way the county would be in control of the vital infrastructure.

All too often, government leaps into bad agreements with cell phone companies, but this is not to say that the cell companies could build it to the county’s specifications and then deed the tower to the county in exchange for usage.

The steering committee also looked at

the zoning ordinances concerning telecommunication towers. Currently, only towers up to 199 feet are allowed.

The zoning ordinance was drafted in 1997 or 1998 that favored smaller towers. The county itself would have to obtain a zoning variance to put up some 300-foot towers. It was thought that this might be a good time to look at the ordinance because many people care more about cell phone coverage that controlling towers.

The county needs to build a new tower at the government center, Penta Hill, Grantsburg and along Hwy. 77.

The county also hopes to put equipment in Hertel, Danbury and a new tower in the St. Croix State Park in Minnesota. It already has equipment in Barronette.

County board gets update on drug and alcohol court

County board gets update on drug and alcohol court

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – The Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court was the subject of a PowerPoint presentation during the county board meeting Thursday, Dec. 18. Roberta Rudiger, the county’s mental health/AODA coordinator, made the presentation, and introduced the new drug and alcohol court coordinator, Tessa Anderson.

The Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court is a court designed and staffed to handle cases involving drug offenders who volunteer to participate in an intensive, judicially supervised program of drug treatment, rehabilitation services and strict community supervision. The goal is to provide meaningful monitored treatment while, at the same time, providing immediate consequences for noncompliance and rewards for success.

Persons admitted to drug and alcohol court must be residents of the county, have been found guilty of a current offense which is the result of substance abuse or drug addiction, be at least 17 and agree to abide by all the program rules.

The mission of the court is: To reduce substance abuse and criminal behavior in order to improve the lives for offend-

ers, families and the community by providing intensive court supervision and drug treatment while holding offenders accountable for criminal behavior.

The person going into the court voluntarily signs a contract agreeing to follow the conditions of the program. The program is divided into three phases: 1) Participation in alcohol/drug-abuse treatment. 2) Finding employment and remaining financially accountable. 3) Agreeing to periodic urinalysis testing.

Before each court appearance, the drug and alcohol court team reviews the progress the person has made, addressing positive/negative behaviors and recommending incentives or sanctions to the judge. A person can be expelled from the program if a violent offense is committed or if inadequate progress is being made.

Members of the Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court Team are: Judge Ken Kutz, Rudiger, Anderson, Dave Hatch and Darin Gleason from probation and parole, District Attorney Bill Norine, public defender Martin Jarvis, Access AODA treatment staff members Warren Stouffer and Jenny Ingram, jail administrator Captain Terry Nesvold, UW-Extension head Marilyn Kooiker, and county board members Donald Chell and Eldon Freese.

In Wisconsin, prisoner incarceration can cost approximately $30,000 a year per offender. The cost per offender for drug and alcohol court participation is $3,000 a year.

According to information presented

by Rudiger to the county board, Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court started in 2006 with just a hope and a prayer, but no money. It was one of the first such courts in the state, following in the footsteps of courts in Eau Claire, Barron and Sawyer counties.

Nineteen Burnett County residents have participated in the court from July 2006 to December 2008. This number includes 10 males and nine females, with 12 of these people having successfully graduated from the program so far and only one termination.

According to Rudiger, the majority of those who are part of drug and alcohol court are living independently and not re-offending. For many, this is a dramatic change in their lives.

“Hats off to drug and alcohol court,” commented county board and drug and alcohol court team member Eldon Freese. “If we can get people straightened out and back in the community in jobs, they will be off the tax rolls.”

Freese urged board members to attend sessions of drug and alcohol court. The next session will be held Thursday, Jan. 8, starting at 8:30 a.m.

For more information about the Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court, contact Tessa Anderson at tanderson@burnettcounty.org on the Internet or call her at 715-349-7600, ext.

1256.

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Tessa Anderson began work Oct. 13 as coordinator of Burnett County Drug and Alcohol Court and methamphetamine case manager.

She is the second person to hold this position, following in the footsteps of Kelly Pearson. Anderson grew up in Bloomer, and moved to Siren from Menomonie with her son, Trenton. Her work, a full-time position, involves coordinating meetings of the drug and alcohol court, getting updates from providers on court participants and supervising all participants to make sure that they are doing what they are supposed to be doing. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

County truancy ordinance is adopted

Land preservation ideas heard

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Burnett County Circuit Court Judge Ken Kutz came before the county board at its meeting Thursday, Dec. 18, to talk about the new truancy ordinance the board later voted to adopt.

The judge discussed conversations about student truancy he had with staff at Grantsburg and Siren schools. The village of Webster has its own municipal court system that has had an effect on the truancy rate in that village.

The central problem is that students are not graduating because they are not in school for enough hours. One way to combat that is to accelerate the number of times the students are in court for truancy. “Once a month is not enough,” Kutz said. “They need immediate consequences.” After the first of the year, truancy court will be held every Wednesday starting at 8:30 a.m.

A county ordinance was passed 20 years ago, but the new ordinance updates that original ordinance. It provides more consequences, including consequences for parents whose youngsters are truant, wherein the parents could be forced to go to school themselves if they are the problem.

“This puts the onus on the parents,” commented county board Chair Phil Lindeman. “We should do a lot better job of telling kids how difficult it is to get a GED or (go through an) equivalency program. They are tough.”

Burnett County Board Supervisors Mary Falk and Brent Blomberg gave a PowerPoint presentation on their recent trip to three Eastern states to learn about ways to set up and finance comprehensive land-use planning. Their conclusions: Counties can only rely on themselves for reliable funding of land planning. Don’t allow the lack of financial resources to prevent the creation of land preservation/development programming. – Photo by Nancy Jappe The penalty set for truancy, as stated in the ordinance, calls for a forfeiture of not more than $50 plus costs for a first violation, and a forfeiture of not more than $100 plus costs for a second or subsequent violation within a 12-month period. The latter is subject to a maximum cumulative forfeiture of not more than $500 for all violations committed during a school semester. All or part of the forfeiture plus costs may be assessed against the person, parents or guardian

of the person or both.

Land preservation ideas heard Supervisors Mary Falk and Brent Blomberg gave a PowerPoint presentation on the six-day land-protection bus tour they took recently to three Eastern states – New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

They talked about methods to create land-protection areas such as: 1) Creation of agriculture districts.

2) Provision of county easements.

3) Establishment of a county transfer development rights program that will transfer development from one land parcel to another.

4) Zoning.

5) Restrictive water and sewer policies.

6) A donated easement program.

The two supervisors offered the following conclusions: 1) Counties can only rely on themselves for reliable funding of land protection. 2) Counties can’t allow a lack of financial resources to prevent the creation of land preservation/development. 3) It is cost efficient to keep land in farmland.

“People think that agriculture is not big business. We have a $100 million cooperative in Burnett County that hires around 200 people,” Lindeman commented.

Matt Fury (L) assumed the duties of manager of Grantsburg Family Foods last week with the departure of Nate Lane. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer

Current staff stays put

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG –Matt Fury assumed the duties of manager of Grantsburg Family Foods last week with the departure of Nate Lane.

Lane his position after eight years as the store’s manager to take a position with the Kellogg Company in Grand Rapids, Minn.

Lane, his wife, Holly, and their two children, were also very active in community and school activities. Lane says he and his family will miss all the people they came to know while he was employed at Family Foods. “ It was a hard decision,” he said. “We have made lasting relationships while in Grantsburg.”

Lane says the move was a good opportunity for he and his family to move back to their roots. Lane and his wife’s parents live in the Grand Rapids

area. “It was important to us for our children to grow up near their grandparents.”

Lane said he was grateful for the outpouring of support the community showed as he and his family said their good-byes at church, school and the store. “I want to tell the people of the Grantsburg community how much I appreciate the support they have given to me and my family and the store over the years.”

“I hope they will continue to support the store. I left it in good hands. I know Matt will do a fine job as manager.”

Fury said he and all the Family Foods staff will miss Nate and his family but understood it was a great job opportunity for Nate and a chance to move closer to their families. “We wish them well,” said Fury, adding he knows the community will also miss the Lanes.

Fury said he and the staff would “continue to provide the excellent customer service Nate provided to our loyal customers.”

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Fury named manager at Grantsburg Family Foods

In Observance Of New Year’s, Our Offices Will Be Closed Thursday, January 1, 2009.

We Will Reopen on Friday, January 2, For Our Normal Business Hours.

Printers and Publishers of: Indianhead, Wild Rivers North & South and Tri-County North & South Advertisers, Inter-County Leader and Washburn County Register Newspapers

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715-327-4236

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

L e a d e r We b Po l l

Total votes: 45

The best part of the holidays are: 32 votes (71%) 0 votes (0%) 3 votes (7%) 2 votes (4%)

Spending time with family Exchanging presents Attending religious services The music

F O R U M Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Chalk one up

This week’s question

Would you fight a Wal-Mart coming to your community?

1. Yes, to protect our local businesses 2. No, we need jobs, convenience.

8 votes (18%) The memories To take part in our Web poll, go to www.the-leader.net and scroll down to the lower left portion of the screen

J o e H e l l e r

I’m a little conflicted about WalMart not coming into Spooner.

We have a summer place about 20 minutes from Spooner and like to shop there once in a while. I like the shops as they are, and if Wal-Mart came in, bye-bye small-town appeal.

Our daughter owns Tamarack Tavern in Spooner and was in favor of the store opening, as many others were. The convenience of a WalMart is a plus to many in our area, but ask people where a store has some into their communities, all of their small town stores have bit the dust.

So it’s a situation where it’s good for some and bad for others.

The stores that are in St. Croix, Rice Lake and Hayward cover the area quite well in my opinion.

I guess it’s mark one up for the small town and let Wal-Mart find another area to move in to.

Sharon Pilsner Frederic and McAllen, Texas

HR218

W h e re t o Wr i t e

President George Bush 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 president@whitehouse.gov

Governor Jim Doyle 115 East, State Capitol Bldg.

Mailing address: P.O. Box 7863 Madison, WI 53707 wisgov@mail.state.wi.us Congressman David Obey 7th Congressional District 2462 Rayburn Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20515 or Wisconsin office: Federal Building Wausau, WI 54401 (715) 842-5606 Rep. Ann Hraychuck 28th Assembly 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

T h e

Rep. Frank Boyle 73rd Assembly District Room 221 North State Capitol P.O. Box 8952 Madison 53708 E-mail: Rep.Boyle@legis.state.wi.us

Senator Sheila Harsdorf 10th Senate District State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 (608) 266-7745 • (715) 2321390 Toll-free - 1-800-862-1092 sen.harsdorf@legis.state.wi.us

Rep. Mary Hubler 75th Assembly District Room 7 North, State Capitol P.O. Box 8952 Madison, WI 53708 or 1966 21-7/8 St. (Hawthorne Lane), Rice Lake 54868 (715) 234-7421• (608) 266-2519 rep.hubler@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

Senator Robert Jauch 25th Senate District Room 19 South State Capitol P.O. Box 7882 Madison, WI 53707 E-mail: Sen.Jauch@legis.state.wi.us

U.S. Senator Herb Kohl 330 Hart Senate Office Bldg.

Washington, D.C. 20510 senator_kohl@kohl.senate.gov Congressman Ron Kind 3rd Congressional District 1713 Longwirth Office Bdg. Washington, D.C. 20515 202-225-5506 888-442-8040 (toll-free) ron.kind@mail.house.gov

I am proud to be the first Wisconsin Attorney General to certify retired law enforcement officers with credentials to carry concealed weapons. By having the Department of Justice take the lead when it comes to providing our own retired law enforcement officers with a permit to carry a concealed firearm, it shows that we have the confidence in local law enforcement agencies’ ability to do this on their own. As I have traveled across the state, I have repeatedly heard from active and retired law enforcement officers who know their ability to protect public safety in a crisis situation does not end with his or her retirement.

On June 4 of this year, I issued the first such credential to Tom Steingraber, former special agent and bureau director in the department’s Division of Criminal Investigation. Tom’ law enforcement career spanned some four decades.

He qualified for the credential based on his experience, record of service, and his ability to meet the firearms qualifications that all DCI agents must pass today.

Since that seminal day in June, 14 other retired Wisconsin Department of Justice special agents have sought, and been given, the department’s credential to carry concealed weapons.

The authority to grant these permits to carry concealed weapons to retired Department of Justice employees is granted to me by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2004, more commonly

known as “HR 218.” This federal law establishes guidelines by which experienced retired law enforcement officers who maintain firearms training may obtain certification that would allow those officers to carry firearms of the type they used while on the force.

Under this same federal law, sheriffs and chiefs of police have the authority to issue the permits for retired members of their individual law enforcement agency to carry concealed weapons. Among the requirements to qualify, a person needs to have 15 years of service as a law enforcement officer, pass an annual firearms certification and be honorably retired. The permit must be issued by the agency from which the law enforcement officer retired.

In the last session of the legislature I worked with state Rep. Don Friske, himself a retired law enforcement officer, along with Wisconsin’s professional law enforcement organizations, to enact properly crafted legislation that would have benefitted efforts to further implement HR 218 in all jurisdictions across the state.

Former Sheriff Gary Hamblin, my law enforcement services administrator, and I worked tirelessly to allow for the enactment of this legislation designed to address the concerns of some local jurisdictions.

Make no mistake, however, as my actions and that of many other jurisdictions across the state demonstrate, federal law currently does authorize employing law enforcement agencies to issue permits to their retired law enforcement officers who meet the statute’s criteria.

You can count on me to continue to do what my office allows in an effort to improve public safety and fight crime. My issuing of HR218 permits to retired Wisconsin Department of Justice agents is allowed by law. I have issued the permits and I will continue to work to ensure more Wisconsin jurisdictions do the same.

J.B. Van Hollen Attorney General Madison

Apology We write to retract a comment included in our letter that appeared in the Dec. 17 issue.

The comment referred to the announcer of the Webster/Siren boys game on Dec. 16. We wish to apologize to him and the Siren fans.

We did not know he has a speech difficulty. We have been reminded once more not to speak when we do not know the facts.

Wes and Norma Maurer Webster

Letters to the editor The Leader welcomes letters to the editor. Diverse and varied opinions are welcomed. 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.

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

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DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

Letters t o t h e e d i t o r Inadequate signage The proposed Burnett County Sign Ordinance will be voted on Jan. 6, 2009.

The land use-zoning committee is proposing an ordinance that will restrict special event signage such as the ag breakfast.

The ordinance allows only (three) offpremises signs with a maximum area of 6 square feet (2 x 3 ft.). The existing ag breakfast signs are 4 ft. by 5 ft. (20 sq ft.).

They put up three or four of these around the county a couple of weeks in advance of this special event. Will we be able to read these mandated smaller signs? Furthermore, the proposed sign ordinance specifies the signs shall be placed no more than two days before the event, not a couple weeks before, as the ag breakfast has done. So now these little signs have been placed and the big day comes and people head out to the breakfast. They try to find the farm and are stymied.

No more signs are allowed, as are no directional arrow signs. On the farm itself, they are allowed (one) 32-square-foot sign. I feel off premise special event signs should have few restrictions and let advertising innovation add to the excitement of the event. After all, these signs are only temporary.

I only use the ag breakfast as an example of what the proposed ordinance will

do to off-premise special event signage.

Such as: garage sales, craft sales, festivals, fairs, church dinners, fishing contests and other fun events.

The zoning committee is attempting to make the county a topnotch draw for tourism. Everyone I talk to including commercial people as well, would like to get rid of billboards, which should be phased out, not grandfathered in. But reducing all off-premises signs to 2square-feet directional doesn’t balance the purpose of signage (to inform the public) with the need to present our county as a haven and paradise.

It would be fun for the county to sponsor a contest to design a purposeful directional sign that is large enough to have the arrow, distance, business name, logo or brand image and graphics to show services offered. The signs could be touristy in nature and have uniform design. The sign should be large enough for people to read.

Please call Burnett Zoning office at 349-2138 and ask them to take another look at this ordinance and get the public more involved before imposing the ordinance.

Charlie Altstatt, Siren

Final footnote Before any chapter ends, there my be the final footnotes to ponder. A footnote can be a reference at the bottom of the page or a note of comment. A lot can be learned from the comments. Norman Jensen ended the chapter and I give the final comments.

In no way did I feel any hurt by what he had said, and no apology was necessary. When I stand for biblical truth, I am not hurt by negative comments.

Critics have been around for ages. If they offend me, then I need to keep silent. However, that will never happen.

Norman Jensen said, “The Abrahamic faiths are full of wisdom for our communities.” That sounds good, but biblically there is only one true Abrahamic faith that leads to eternal salvation and that comes through Abraham’s son, Isaac. It is through the line of Isaac and his son Jacob that came forth the eternal Son of God, the redeemer, who died on the cross as a ransom for sin. After Sarah died, Abraham took another wife by the name of Ketruah from whom he had sons (Gen. 25:1-4). In fact, Saddam Hussein claimed to be a descendant of Keturah. None of these sons, including Ishmael from Hagar, were chosen to bring forth the savior, whose birth we celebrate at Christmastime.

The true Messiah and Savior is Jesus

A tale of two nobel nations STOCKHOLM, Sweden – The days are short here in Stockholm, which is so far north that winter daylight is limited to about four hours a day. But the city is buzzing with visitors, media and activities, as the Nobel Prizes are being given this week. While the Nobels recognize lifetime achievements in medicine, chemistry, physics, literature, economics and peace, and Sweden is a paragon among progressive, social democracies, there is another side to Sweden and the Nobels that warrants a closer look.

Alfred Nobel made a fortune as an inventor, principally for his discovery of dynamite. He died in 1896, leaving most of his fortune to endow the Nobel Prizes. Nobel lived in a time when European rivalries and wars were the norm. He believed the destructive power of his inventions could promote peace. He wrote to his lifelong friend, peace activist Bertha von Suttner, who would win the Nobel Peace Prize almost a decade after his death, “Perhaps my factories will put an end to war even sooner than your congresses; on the day when two army corps will be able to annihilate each other in a second, all civilized nations will recoil with horror and disband their troops.”

If only. Now countries can destroy each other many times over, but instead of recoiling in horror, they just continue buying ever more destructive weapons,

States, they follow the biblical prescription from Isaiah 2:4, turning “swords into plowironically making Sweden shares.” one of the world leaders, per Annika Spalde also particicapita, in weapons exports. pated in the actions: “We sell Nobel turned Swedish muniweapons to countries at war tions into a stable, multinaand to countries who seriously tional enterprise. In 1894, he violate human rights, and still acquired the weapons comthese sales just grow bigger pany Bofors, now a suband bigger, so we feel that we, sidiary of the weapons maker as ordinary citizens, have a BAE Systems. While the Amy responsibility to act then and to world’s eyes are on the Nobel Goodman physically try to stop these Prize winners, several weapons from being shipped Swedes are facing prison time off.” Spalde is awaiting trial. for taking direct action against Bofors.

Laska has been sentenced to three Cattis Laska is a member of the anti- months in prison. war groups Ofog and Avrusta, Swedish Traditional Swedish politics also are for “mischief” and “disarm.” She told in flux. Brian Palmer is an American, a me about their protests against the former Harvard lecturer, who has Swedish weapons industry: “We went immigrated to Sweden and become a into two weapon factories the same Swedish citizen. Palmer has penned a night. Two went into Saab Bofors biography of Sweden’s 43-year-old Dynamics (while General Motors prime minister, Fredrik Reinfeldt. bought Saab’s auto division, Saab in Palmer credits Reinfeldt with leading Sweden makes weapons) ... and they the shift away from the progressive disarmed about 20 (grenade launchers) social policies for which Sweden has ... to prevent them from being used in become world famous. He said wars. They did it by using a hammer. Reinfeldt, in 1993, “wrote a book, ‘The There’s very much details in those Sleeping People,’ where he said that the launchers, so they have to be perfect. So welfare state should only prevent starit’s enough just to scrape inside to dis- vation, nothing beyond that. After able them. And then, me and another being elected ... one of his first major person went into the BAE Systems visits abroad was to George Bush in the Bofors factory, where we disabled some White House.” parts for howitzers going to India. We Reinfeldt and his Moderate Party also used hammers.” Like the hired Karl Rove as a political consultant Plowshares activists in the United to help with the election coming in

A R E A Coffee shop robbed at knifepoint CAMBRIDGE, Minn. - Police are looking for a man that robbed a Cambridge coffee shop with a knife Thursday night.

Cambridge police say a black male, 5’8” tall, in his early 20s stole $273 in cash from the Coffee Ambrosia in downtown Cambridge.

The man was wearing a white or light colored hooded jacket with a black design on the hood, blue pants, and had a blue bandana pulled up over his face. He was holding a knife and demanded the money from the register. A 17-year-old male employee was working at the time and told police the man stole the money and fled on foot. The incident occurred just before 7 p.m. The robbery is under investigation by Detective

Vern Johnson. Anyone with information regarding the case is asked to contact the Cambridge Police Department at 763-6899567. – redrockonair.com Cop faces child porn charges NEW RICHMOND – Special agents from the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation along with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the New Richmond Police Department arrested Anthony T. Miller on one count of possession of child pornography and one count of sexual exploitation of a Child. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement initiated a child pornography investigation regarding an Internet Web site.

Christ, the one whom the Old Testament prophets proclaimed his coming centuries before. He is Immanuel, which is translated, “God with us,” (Matthew 1:23). He is the one who claimed, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me,” (John 14:6). The apostle Peter said, “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved,” (Acts 4:12).

Someday, Jesus Christ is going to return in power and great glory, (Matthew 24:30). It will be at that time that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess, “that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father,” (Philippians 2:10-11).

So ends the final chapter to this discussion with my final comments. I, too, want to say thank you to the Leader staff and Merry Christmas. You do a fine job. I look forward to reading your paper each week. Also, Merry Christmas to Norman Jensen.

Pastor Merrill Olson, Webster

2010. Palmer went on: “We have a real kind of silent war on the labor movement. We have a rather dramatic change in the tax system, abolishing the inheritance tax and most property taxes, cutbacks in social-welfare institutions.” This week, a new coalition of center-left political parties formed to challenge this rightward drift.

The U.S. electorate has thoroughly rebuked the Bush administration, handing Barack Obama and the Democrats a mandate for change on issues of war and health care, among others. One of the world’s leading laboratories for innovative social policies, Sweden is now wrestling with its own future. Those seeking change in the U.S. would be wise to watch Sweden, beyond Nobel week.

••• Denis Moynihan contributed research to this column.

••• Amy Goodman is the host of “Democracy Now!,” a daily international TV/radio news hour airing on more than 700 stations in North America. Her column’s appearance in the Leader is sponsored by the local group, The Gathering, an informal group of people of diverse ages, experience, and philosophies who meet every other week at a member’s home for silent meditation and lively discussions about peace, justice, spirituality, religion, politics, environment, global cultures and humanity.

N E W S The investigation was forwarded to the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigation. Subsequently, a search warrant was obtained by WI DCI for the residence of Anthony T. Miller in New Richmond. On Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2008, a search warrant was executed at the residence of Miller. Agents interviewed Miller.

Miller admitted downloading, possessing and trading/distributing child pornography for approximately the past two years.

Miller reported that he is an 11- year veteran of the Hastings, Minn., Police Department.

Miller also admitted that he had used his personal laptop while on duty as a Hastings officer to obtain wireless Internet access via unencrypted wireless signals from random

locations throughout the Hastings area.

Miller confirmed that he participated in an online file sharing program in which he would chat with other individuals involved in possessing child pornography. Miller would trade images of child pornography with these subjects via this file sharing program. Miller would also search the Internet for child pornography by using selected, specific search terms. Miller estimated the age of the victims exposed in his child pornography images were typically between 9 – 15 years. – from the office of State Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

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DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

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Quilt guild announces new officers and 2009 schedule SIREN – The Mixed Sampler Quilt Guild’s first meeting of the new year is on Jan. 10, 2009, at the Siren Senior Center in Siren. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. with a brief business meeting followed by the monthly program and show and tell of guild members current projects.

The program slated for this meeting is The Disappearing 9 Patch, demonstrated by Joyce Quist, of Milltown. Quist is the vice president and program chair of the quilt guild and will be setting up the programming for the upcoming monthly meetings.

New officers were elected at the November 2008 meeting. Elected to a two-year term beginning January 2009

were: President Jean Judd, Cushing; Vice President Joyce Quist; treasurer Helen Bouchee, Vadnais Heights, Minn.; and secretary Janet Howie, Luck.

New board members include: Shirley Johnson, Dresser; Carol Krueger, Cumberland; and Betty MacKean, Luck.

The guild meets the second Saturday of the month at the Siren Senior Center located just south of the stoplights at the intersection of Hwy. 70 and Hwy. 35.

The guild has members from both Wisconsin and Minnesota and currently has over 70 active members. Guests are welcome to attend a meeting to meet members and get information on joining the guild.

Meetings in 2009 are scheduled for

January, February, March, April and May. In June, many guild members travel to the annual Minnesota Quilt

Show so there is no scheduled meeting.

In July the guild has its annual Quilt Walk. Three members open up their homes for the guild to tour and a potluck lunch is enjoyed at the final home. Meetings resume in August, September and November. October features the guild’s annual quilt show held at the Siren School. This year the dates are Oct. 10 and 11. December is the guild’s annual Christmas party, featuring a brunch and entertainment.

The Mixed Sampler Quilt Guild is open to quilters of all skill levels and to anyone who loves quilts and the art of quilting. Come to one of the meetings and see what the guild is all about. – submitted

Burnett County to kick off the 2009 Relay for Life

BURNETT COUNTY – The American Cancer Society invites individuals, relay teams, sponsors, cancer survivors and anyone wanting to honor cancer survivors and caregivers, or pay tribute to those who have lost their battle with cancer, to attend the Relay For Life of Burnett County Kick Off and Open House, scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 8, at the Lodge at Crooked Lake on Hwy. 35, in Siren from 5-8 p.m.

In 1985, Relay For Life began with one man who walked and ran around a track for 24 hours raising $27,000. This year, Relay For Life will take place in more than 4,900 communities across the

country.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is an overnight community celebration where individuals and teams camp out, barbecue, dance, and take turns walking around a track relay-style to raise funds, while celebrating the lives of those who have had cancer, remembering those lost, and fighting back against a disease that takes too much. Relay will take place on Friday and Saturday, June 12 and 13, at Webster High School.

Please attend the open house on Jan. 8 to find out more about Relay. There will be registration information for teams,

online site, information on community services, cancer education, advocacy, videos of Relays across the globe, photos of past Relays in Burnett County, games, prizes and more. Join the party.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day, cancer will be eliminated.

To find out more about Relay For Life, call 800-ACS-2345, or visit www.RelayForLife.org.

To find out more about Relay For Life in Burnett County call 800-947-0487, ext.

2070 or go to www.relayforlife. org/burnettwi.

Having cancer is hard. Finding help shouldn’t be. As a nationwide organization, the American Cancer Society helps everyone facing the disease, when and where they need assistance. Dollars raised through Relay For Life are providing hope to people in Burnett County. For cancer information, day-today help, or emotional support, call 800ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org. – from American Cancer Society

Lutheran bishops to visit the Middle East

Bishop Pederson of Wisconsin part of lead team

RICE LAKE - Sixty of the 65 synodical bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America will be joined by five of the six bishops of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada for a working visit to the Middle East Jan. 6-16, 2009. The Rev. Duane C. Pederson, bishop of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the ELCA, will leave Jan. 3 as part of the team that will lead the way for the delegation.

According to Pederson, this visit grew out of an ELCA churchwide assembly, “Strategy for Engagement of Palestine,” adopted in 2005. The initiative calls for congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization of the ELCA to be engaged in awareness-building, accompaniment and advocacy.

More specifically, Pederson said, “We

will build relationships with both Palestinian and Israeli religious and secular leaders, learn of the safety and peace concerns of Israel, learn of justice and peace concerns of Palestinians, and (attempt to) understand better the impact of Christian, Jewish and Islamic theologies in the Palestinian/Israeli conflict.”

He said that the bishops will also experience the efforts of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan, Holy Land and its Bishop Munib A. Younan, as well as efforts of the Lutheran World Federation and other ecumenical and interfaith companions engaged in the pursuit of peace in the Holy Land.

According to the Rev. Allan C. Bjornberg, chair of the ELCA Conference of Bishops, this visit is “extraordinary.” Each year the ELCA bishops gather in January for their academy of continuing education, and after several years of planning the annual meeting will take the form of this visit to the Middle East.

The Rev. Duane C. Pederson, bishop of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the ELCA, will be part of the delegation of Lutheran bishops to visit the Middle East in January. – Photo submitted “I am proud of the commitment of our

bishops, and those of the ELCIC, to visit this fascinating and troubled region of the world to learn, to support Christian sisters and brothers, and to advocate for peace and justice for all people,” said Bjornberg.

The Rev. Dean W. Nelson, chair of the bishops’ academy committee added, “We expect this trip will enable us to grow in our awareness of the reality of life in Israel and Palestine, accompany our brothers and sisters in the ELCJHL in their witness and service, and become better advocates in our own countries for an end to the ongoing hostilities in the Holy Land.”

As a follow-up to this trip, the 2009 Fall Ministry Retreat of the NWS will feature Robert Smith, an authority on Christian Zionism. He will explore with the synod clergy how the Christian Zionism movement has shaped American foreign policy and how the Christian church in the United States is often viewed by those who live in the Holy Land. – submitted

Anderson elected Mille Lacs chief executive

ONAMIA, Minn. – Marge Anderson was elected chief executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in a special election held Dec. 16.

Anderson received a total of 302 votes, which was more than the 50-percent-plus-one majority (set in Band statutes) needed to win the primary election. Anderson previously served as chief executive from 1991-2000.

The vote totals were: Marge Anderson 302 Mushkoob 83

Larry Nickaboine 82 Wallace St. John Sr. 60 Pamela Pewaush 35 Clifford Churchill 11 Michael Aubid 8 Lisa Jackson 7 Kirstie Davis Deyhle 4 Total 592 Voids/blanks 62 There were 62 disqualified ballots not counted in the total figure. Ballots with write-in candidates are automatically disqualified according to Minnesota

Chippewa Tribe election guidelines.

Anderson was elected during a special election for the chief executive position, which was open after former Chief Executive Melanie Benjamin was removed from office in October.

Anderson has served more than 20 years in the Band’s tribal government, including serving as District 1 Representative from 1976-1987 and secretary/treasurer from 1987-1991.

Anderson was appointed chief executive in 1991 after Art Gahbow died

while in office. She was elected to the post in 1992 and again in 1996. During her tenure as chief executive, Anderson led the development of Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley and the rebuilding of the reservation through new schools, clinics, community centers, housing, a water treatment plant and other infrastructure. – from the Mille Lacs Tribe

Congress builds stimulus package for nation, states

NATIONWIDE Members of Congress are working to get an economic package together in time for President-elect Obama’s signature. But while the criteria and goals are clear, the details are not. That could be up to local governments to determine.

The price tag could exceed the $700 billion Wall Street bailout, and it could be just the first of several stimulus packages to get people back to work. House

Appropriations Committee Chairman Dave Obey says they’re asking states and local governments to put together a list of projects that are “shovel ready” so people can be put to work and money gets back into circulation.

But Obey says these projects will not be earmarks.

“This is not a time for everybody to saddle up to the bar with their favorite projects,” Obey says. “This is a time

where we have to look at the national interest. We have to see what will have the biggest impact nationwide in the economy.”

Obey says they’re looking at things like airport, sewer, transit and highway projects. Even so, he adds there will be some lag between the time the stimulus bill is passed and projects begin.

“And so we can expect to see some very grim months,” he warns. “The

question is how effectively and skillfully we can pull together in order to make that timetable as short as possible.”

The stimulus package will include aid to states. Currently, more than 40 have large deficits. It will also include money for energy and technology projects, extending jobless benefits and getting health care to the uninsured.

– Wisconsin Public Radio (Mike Simonson)

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Highway commissioner urges money-savings maintenance

by Sherill Summer BURNETT COUNTY – Money-saving tips seemingly are everywhere these days.

Even at the Burnett County infrastructure committee meeting last Wednesday, highway Commissioner Bob Morehouse had an informational packet about road maintenance for committee supervisors to take back to their respective towns that hopefully can save taxpayers money and maintain the roads at the same time.

The packet explained how to judge road surfaces to determine what maintenance might be needed to extend the

“I am a taxpayer too.

I know the tax dollars need to go as far as they can,” – Highway Commissioner Bob Morehouse

life of the road, complete with photos and prices. Morehouse hopes the packet can answer some questions that the township trustees may have about

maintaining roads.

Consider that a mile of new blacktop can cost upwards of $220,000, but crack filling can be as little as $5,000 a mile, or more than 40 times cheaper, and can forestall the need for new blacktop for many years. There is an incentive to maintain roads.

Morehouse has had to explore ways to extend the life of an existing road because the price of new blacktop has increased dramatically the last several years, directly reducing the miles of new blacktop the county and township budgets can afford. With little money for resurfacing, the polyfiber patching,

seal coating and crack filling operations were expanded.

The discussion turned to other opportunities the towns and villages may have in saving money. For example, many villages have duplicate equipment that is little used and it may be possible to share some of this equipment. Morehouse described the efforts to share equipment between counties.

Some methods of sharing equipment can cause bookkeeping problems, but generally, these problems can be overcome.

County board recognitions

Now retired Burnett County Chief Deputy Don Taylor (L) accepted a certificate of recognition from county board supervisor/former Sheriff Don Chell during the county board meeting Thursday, Dec. 18. Taylor worked full time in the sheriff’s department for 29 years before his retirement Dec. 12. Chell was a member of the department at the time Taylor started.

Interviews for Taylor’s successor as chief deputy have been completed, but that person has not yet been named.

Burnett County Aging Unit Director Lois Taylor (L) presented a certificate of appreciation to Deborah Korhonen, who retired recently as manager of the Webster Nutrition Site. Korhonen has been that site’s manager for almost 10 years. The recognition came during the Dec. 18 meeting of the Burnett County Board of Supervisors.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

WITC students to go on mission to Galveston RICE LAKE - The plane tickets have been purchased for 24 volunteers from WITC-Rice Lake to go to Galveston, Texas, to provide their services in the cleanup after Hurricane Ike. A Galveston church group is making the arrangements for food, shelter and a work schedule for their stay Jan. 3-10.

Local friends, family, elementary and

high school students are invited to keep up with their activities on a blog site created by Mike Miller, information technology instructor. The plan is for the blog site http://witchurricanerelief. blogspot.com to go live by Jan. 1 and will include photos and daily updates.

Visitors to the site will also be able to send questions and comments.

Native American plaintiffs expect to fare better with Obama STATEWIDE - A Lac du Flambeau tribal member and plaintiff in a major class-action suit against the federal government says he’s got high hopes for President-elect Obama’s pick for Interior Secretary.

Tom Maulson is one of six original plaintiffs in the 12-year-old case against the U.S. Department of the Interior, currently called Cobell vs. Kempthorne. It alleges more than a century of mismanagement of Native American trust monies, and has grown to represent several hundred Indian tribes across the nation.

Last August, a U.S. District Court judge said plaintiffs were entitled to $455 million, a fraction of the $47 billion they were seeking. That ruling has since been appealed, and Maulson says the Obama administration and a new Interior Secretary could be more receptive than those under Presidents Bush and Clinton.

“Maybe this is the time that Indian people will have their dues,” he says.

Both Maulson and the suit’s lead

plaintiff, Eloise Cobell, recall Obama reaching out to Native Americans while on the campaign trail. With Colorado Sen. Ken Salazar picked for Interior Department Secretary, they say they expect a better resolution to their case – and a better relationship in general.

“We (Native Americans) seem to be the last priority that the Interior Department has ever addressed,” says Cobell, a Blackfoot Indian living in Montana. “Listening to all of Obama’s promises when he was visiting many of the native communities, I’m quite concerned that we stay in the face of new appointed Secretary Salazar to have him understand the importance of our people.”

Oral arguments have yet to be scheduled in the appeal to the case, which will soon be renamed Cobell vs. Salazar.

Meanwhile, Maulson says he’s hopeful that the Obama administration could even issue an apology for the U.S. government’s past treatment of Native Americans. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Brian Bull)

There are 18 students and six staff going on the trip: Architectural commercial design instructors Deb Kutrieb and Kelly Roshell along with students Matt Ricci, Cumberland; Kristie Link, Barron; Jennifer Edmond, Hillsdale; Ryan Sedani, Rice Lake; Galina Liljenberg, Webster; Theodore Hoeft, Ladysmith; Alex Shimko, Rice Lake; Travis Puig, Barron; Jonathan Bauer, Elmwood; Jason Hoard, Chetek; Dustin Lundmark, Cumberland; and Brandon Bush, Weyerhaeuser. From the mason

and bricklaying program: Instructor Todd Larson and students Erick Walker, Rice Lake; Justin Candler, Chetek; Dani Duetsch, Livingston; and Mike Robert, Hayward. Other students include William Coyle, accounting and Rachelle Carlson, medical administrative specialist. Other WITC staff going on the trip are Jodie Lenhart, continuing ed administrative assistant; Gini Randle, continuing ed instructor; and Mike Miller. – from WITC

Siren K-4 program

An error in use of a cutline was made in the photos of the Siren K-4 Winter Program on page 15 in last week’s issue of the Leader. The photo at the TOP RIGHT of Abby Good hugging a pot of honey was incorrectly identified as a photo of Bailey Bear (played by Max Lindquist). The correct photo of Bailey Bear, licking his lips as he thinks about all the honey he is missing before his friends came forward to help him, is shown here. – Photo by Nancy Jappe

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Saints gymnasts win home meet versus Pirates Grantsburg forfeits floor exercise

by Brenda Sommerfeld ST. CROIX FALLS – The two Leader Land gymnastic teams, St. Croix Falls/Unity and Grantsburg, faced off in St. Croix Falls on Thursday. The Saints outscored Grantsburg, 109.755 to 85.200, because the Pirates did not compete on the floor event.

“I’m disappointed that we had to forfeit the win, but it came down to a safety issue,” Pirate coach Kathy Lund explained. “I did not prepare the girls to tumble on a wrestling matt and I did not want to take the risk of injuries.”

Lund said she has faced the effects of injuries going from a spring surface to a hard tumbling surface.

“It does not just effect the current season, but carries into the succeeding season,” Lund finished. “The transition can’t be adjusted that quickly.”

The St. Croix Falls floor is the only one on the Grantsburg schedule that is not a spring floor.

Without the Pirates competing on floor, the Saint gymnasts scored all top three spots. One of their two all-around competitors, Katie Meyer, took first with her 7.175 score. Jenna Christensen scored 6.975 took second place and Melissa Larson got third with 6.825. The other all-around, Ashley Johnson, took the fourth top score on floor, 6.800.

Meyer scored highest as an all-around with a 28.525 score, Johnson scored 27.775. Johnson took first place on vault with an 8.450. The other top-three placing was Meyer taking third on bars with a 6.950.

Melissa Larson competed for the team Team St. Croix Falls Grantsburg

Vault/Place 32.150 32.420

Bars/Place 26.725 24.850

Extra Points

St. Croix Falls Ashley Johnson took first place in the vaulting event during the Saints meet against Grantsburg on Thursday.

Pirate Michelle Lund received first places on both uneven bars and balance beam on Thursday. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

on vault, bars and floor. Nichole McPherson performed routines on vault, bars and beam.

Jenna Christensen and Alexa Meyer each were in two events and Danae Meyer and Haley Anderson were brought up to varsity for one event each.

Grantsburg had five all-around gym-

nasts compete for varsity during their meet against St. Croix Falls, Michelle Lund, Nikki Ticknor, Jessica Ilgen, Emily Cole and Saisha Goepfert.

“This would have been the first meet to have this lineup,” Lund explained.

“We were looking forward to this meet too. This was a chance for our parents and fans to see the team for the first time this season.”

Lund commented that the first two meets were too far to travel for fans. She believes if her team would have competed on floor, they would have scored around 115.

In the three events in which they did compete, the Pirates took two or three of the top three placings. Lund placed first on both bars and beam and she placed second on the vault.

Freshman Ticknor received second place on the beam and third in vault.

Ilgen took a second place on bars and Cole came in third on beam.

Beam/Place 23.100 27.900

Floor/Place All Around/Place Place 27.780 109.755 1st 85.200 2nd

Grantsburg Individual Scores Michelle Lund 8.400/2nd Nikki Ticknor 8.325/3rd Jessica Ilgen 8.000 Emily Cole 7.700 Saisha Goepfert 7.250

7.600/1st 4.875 7.050/2nd 5.325 3.950

7.350/1st 7.250/2nd 6.500 6.800/3rd 6.200

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23.350 20.450 21.550 19.825 17.400

St. Croix Falls Individual Scores Katie Meyer 7.750 Ashley Johnson 8.450/1st Melissa Larson 7.900 Nichole McPherson 8.050 Jenna Christensen 7.250 Alexa Meyer Danae Meyer Haley Anderson -

6.950/3rd 6.725 6.650 6.400 6.175 -

6.650 5.800 6.050 4.000 4.600

7.175/1st 6.800 6.825/3rd 6.975/2nd 6.700 -

28.525 27.775 21.375 20.500 14.225 10.700 6.175 4.600

State champion gymnast in Grantsburg Jessee Lerud and Northern Flight Gymnastics team take first GRANTSBURG – Jessee Lerud, a Grantsburg Middle School fifth-grader, received the Minnesota Level 6 state championship trophy on Sunday, Dec. 14.

Lerud won her age division with an all-around score of 37.325. She won the uneven bars with a 9.1, and championed the floor event with a 9.375. She received fourth place on the vault with a

9.1 and took second place on the beam with a mark of 9.75.

When the age divisions had finished the day, Lerud was the lone gymnast at the top. Lerud is part of Northern Flight Gymnastics located in Rush City, Minn.

The Northern Flight Level 6 team also took home the first-place championship trophy. Lerud is coached by her mom Lara Lerud and Dianne Meier. – Marty Seeger with submitted information RIGHT: Grantsburg 5th-grader Jessee Lerud took home a Minnesota Level 6 state gymnastics championship trophy on Sunday, Dec. 14. – Photo submitted

••• BANGOR – Former Frederic football athlete, Josh “Chappy” Chaplin finished off a successful third consecutive season as a defensive varsity football coach for Bangor High School. Bangor went 10-0 during the regular season and won the Scenic Bluffs Conference title for the first time since 1996. They were defeated

by Stratford in the second round of the playoffs. Chaplin carried out the dream of the late Brandon Taylor leading the Frederic flag football program for area youth for several years.

He has also coached the Bangor Middle School football team for six years along with several college roommates. Chaplin graduated in 2007 from UW-La Crosse with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in competitive athletics, and is currently a graduate student at UW-Stout. Marty Seeger with submitted information ••• DULUTH, Minn., – Former Webster student and Baldwin Woodville basketball player, Marcus Helland is a sophomore this season on the UMD basketball team.

Hellund has seen playing time in at least 10 of the teams past 12 games and averages about 2.7 points per game, and has 16 rebounds on the season. He has a .611 scoring percentage. Helland is the son of Rusty and Peg Hellund.

••• LEADER LAND – The Clayton versus Frederic or Webster games on Monday, Dec. 29, and Tuesday, Dec. 30, will be broadcast on 1260 AM beginning at 7:30 p.m. both nights.

••• GREEN BAY – The Detroit Lions at Packers game is being broadcast on 105.7 FM at noon on Sunday, Dec. 28.

••• MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The New York Giants at Vikings game can be heard on Sunday, Dec. 21, on 104.9 FM beginning at 3 p.m.

••• MADISON – College games broadcast on 1260 AM will be featured on the following dates and times. The Florida State versus Wisconsin football game begins at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 27. The Sunday, Dec. 28, Harvard or Lake Superior State versus Wisconsin game begins at 7 p.m., and the Wednesday, Dec. 31; Wisconsin at Michigan basketball game begins at 1 p.m.

••• LEADER LAND – Local sports tidbits to share? Please contact the Leader by 4 p.m. on Tuesdays to go in Extra Points! – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld ••• 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 2008 and hasn’t been mentioned, send us an e-mail and we’ll take it from there. – Marty Seeger and Brenda Sommerfeld

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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Lady Blizzard tallies up two more wins

Seven of 11 players score Lady Blizzard 9, Lakeland 1

by Brenda Sommerfeld SIREN – The Lady Blizzard scored their most goals of the season during their 9-1 win against Lakeland on Friday. This was their third win in a row after beating Menomonie on Thursday and Edina on Saturday, Dec. 13.

“We’re on a roll, and the girls are having fun,” coach Tim Bennett said.

“We’re off to our best start ever!”

The team is now 4-1-2, after their domination of Lakeland. Seven of the Lady Blizzard players scored during the game. Alex Lonetti scored two in the first period with Krysta Laqua putting in the third on a wrap around. It was Laqua’s first goal of the season.

During the second, Nicole Steiner put in her goal from a shot at the point.

Team Lakeland Lady Blizzard

1 1 3

2 2

3 4

F 1 9

Scoring (Time remaining) First Period – 1 LB Alex Lonetti (Cody Crawford) 13:24; 2 LB Krysta Laqua (Tanesha Carlson) 7:42; 3 LB Alex Lonetti 2:39; 1 L Emily Christian (Emma Arnold) 0:09.6.

Second Period – 4 LB Nicole Steiner 9:11; 5 LB Brittani Hopkins (Alex Lonetti) 3:47.

Third Period – 6 LB Brittani Hopkins (Kelsey Lien) 4:47; 7 LB Randi Hunter 4:21; 8 LB Tanesha Carlson (Nicole Steiner, Alex Lonetti) 3:37; 9 LB Michelle Wilde (Kelsey Lien, Brittani Hopkins) 0:31.5.

Goalies Saves – L Brittney Borowczyk (40); LB Tiffany Meyer (13).

Lady Blizzard’s Kelsey Lien fights for the puck against a Lakeland player during their game on Friday. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld Brittani Hopkins added her two goals during the second and third periods.

Randi Hunter, Tanesha Carlson and Michelle Wilde each also added one in the third.

Wilde is attending Grantsburg as a foreign exchange student from Germany. Before this season, she has never played hockey.

“Michelle has a great attitude and I applaud her courage to come out and

try something she never experienced before,” Bennett commented. “It was fun to see her get some ice time tonight and to score that first goal was exciting for her.”

Cody Crawford, Carlson, Lonetti, Steiner, Kelsey Lien and Hopkins made the assists during the game.

Goalie Tiffany Meyer saved 13 shots from going in the Lady Blizzard net.

Lady Blizzard 4, Menomonie 3 GRANTSBURG – The Menomonie game was more challenging for the Lady Blizzard than the Lakeland game, but they came out with a 4-3 victory in the end.

“Menomonie always plays us tough and tonight was no exception,” coach Tim Bennett said.

The Lady Blizzard was down by two goals in the second period before Brittani Hopkins scored their first.

Following Hopkins, Tanesha Carlson, Randi Hunter and Casey Crawford each added goals, taking the lead, 4-2.

“Our passing was better tonight and I thought we crashed the net,” Bennett commented.

Menomonie came back in the third period to score a third goal but were not able to put another past goalie Tiffany Meyer to tie it up.

Meyer had 22 saves during the game.

Cody Crawford, Krysta Laqua, Kelsey Lien and Carlson each added assists to their records as they helped the Lady Blizzard win their third season game.

Team Menomonie Lady Blizzard

1 1 -

2 1 2

3 1 2

F 3 4

Scoring (Time remaining) First Period – 1 M Shauna Bollinger 8:52.

Second Period – 2 M Whitney Berger 14:31; 1 LB Brittani Hopkins (Cody Crawford) 12:44; 2 LB Tanesha Carlson (Krysta Laqua) 0:36.9.

Third Period – 3 LB Randi Hunter (Krysta Laqua, Tanesha Carlson) 7:24; 4 LB Casey Crawford (Kelsey Lien) 5:30; 3 M Tanesha Carlson (Alex Lonetti) 0:04.1.

Goalies Saves – M Katelyn Halama (20); LB Tiffany Meyer (22).

Warriors continue winning Swenson. The Cardinals were able to add another goal to take the lead back, 2-1, ending the second period.

Jack Nelson and Kyle Schultz added the two goals for the Warriors in the third period to take the win.

Cody Olson, Schultz and Anthony Peterson each had an assist during the game.

Record now 6-2 Amery/Unity 3, Park Falls 2

by Brenda Sommerfeld AMERY – The Amery/Unity Warrior hockey team added two more wins to their now 6-2 record over the past week.

On Saturday, the Warriors beat the Park Falls/Phillips Cardinal team, 3-2.

Amery/Unity was down by one going into the second period, where they scored their first goal by Nick Team Park Falls/Phillips Amery/Unity

1 1 -

2 1 1

3 2

F 2 3

Scoring (Time elapsed) First Period – 1 PP Cody Kreiner 9:40.

Second Period – 1 AU Nick Swenson (Cody Olson, Kyle Schultz) 8:45; 2 PP Mitch Olson (Zachary Lemke) 16:09.

Third Period – 2 AU Jack Nelson 0:19; 3 AU Kyle Schultz (Anthony Peterson) 14:18.

Goalies Saves – PP Cory Knapp 32); AU Patrick Bergan (24).

D.J. Dahlberg races down the ice in an earlier game this year. – File photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

Amery/Unity 7, Spooner 1 SPOONER – Traveling to Spooner was a way for the Amery/Unity hockey players to add goals to their records, as the team beat the Spooner/Shell Lake Rails, 7-1.

Warrior Josh Jungmann scored the only goal in the first period. It was during a power play on assists by Colten Nustvold and Anthony Peterson.

Kyle Schultz scored three of Amery/Unity’s four goals made in the second period. Two of the goals were unassisted and the other came from Nustvold and Jungmann.

Nick Swenson scored the other second period goal unassisted.

The Rails scored their only goal during the third period, but it was answered with two more Warrior goals.

Jungmann put in one with assists from Tanner Tryggestad and Anthony Peterson.

Tryggestad put in the last goal, unassisted, while the Warriors were shorthanded.

Team Amery/Unity Spooner/Shell Lake

1 1 -

2 4 -

3 2 1

F 7 1

Scoring (Time elapsed) First Period – 1 AU Josh Jungmann (Colten Nustvold, Anthony Peterson) 3:48.

Second Period – 2 AU Nick Swenson 6:32; 3 AU Kyle Schultz (Colten Nustvold, Josh Jungmann) 6:54; 4 AU Kyle Schultz 12:40; 5 AU Kyle Schultz 12:48.

Third Period – 1 SS Andrew Olson (Justin Huebner 2:07; 6 AU Josh Jungmann (Tanner Tryggestad, Anthony Peterson) 6:55; 7 AU Tanner Tryggestad 9:46.

Goalies Saves – AU Jarrett Sykes (34); SS Reed Sorensen (8); SS Patrick Bergan (17).

Blizzard takes second win of season Freshman scores two goals Blizzard 3, Altoona 1

by Brenda Sommerfeld ALTOONA – The Blizzard competed against Altoona on Thursday. They took their second season victory, 3-1.

“The story of the game was freshmen Team Blizzard Altoona

1 2 -

2 1

3 1 -

F 3 1

Scoring (Time elapsed) First Period – 1 B David Harlander 7:52; 2 B Joe Engelhart 9:10.

Second Period – 1 A Ryan Perry (Austin Potter) 2:09.

Third Period – 3 B Joe Engelhart 10:17.

Goalies Saves – B Mike Billings (20); A Drew Magur (21); A Zach Vaughan (3).

Joe Engelhart who had two goals for us and gave a really good effort,” coach Greg Sears said. “Hopefully the spark we need to get rolling.”

In the first period, the Blizzard scored two goals in the first period. Senior David Harlander shot in the first goal unassisted at 7:52 of the first period.

One minute and 18 seconds later, Engelhart knocked in the second goal off a pass from Jamie Robb.

Engelhart, unassisted, scored the third goal on a power play during the third period.

Altoona’s only goal came in the second period after two minutes on the ice.

“The brightest part of the season so Steven Labatt hits the puck in a previous game this season. – File photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

far is the talented freshmen that we have,” Sears commented. “Five freshmen see the ice on a regular shift and have developed confidence over the season so far.”

Youth Hockey Warrior Pee Wee Hockey Saturday, Dec. 20

Warriors 9, Altoona B 6

Goals: Kory Hill (3); Dawson Mershon (2); Cory Karnick (2); Zach Casselberry; Austin VonDoehren. Assists: Cory Karnick; Zach Casselberry; Jake Wirtz.

Saves: Tristan Weinholzer (15)

Sunday, Dec. 21

Warriors 9, River Valley 3

Goals: Dawson Mershon (3); Cory Karnick (2); Kory Hill (2); Jake Ganter; Jacob Howell.

Assists: Cory Karnick (2).

Saves: Tristan Weinholzer (20)

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

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Vikings get nonconference win over Rush City tributed six.

Janey was the top rebounder also with 14 rebounds, followed by Guevara with eight. Carley had three steals and both Fischbach and Meghan Baasch had two.

– Brenda Sommerfeld

Dragons burn up Evergreens Frederic 51, Rush City 40

by Marty Seeger FREDERIC – The Viking girls basketball team hosted Rush City, Minn. last Friday night and ended it with a convincing 51-40 victory.

It was a close contest after the first quarter as Frederic held a slim 11-10 lead, but coach Troy Wink said his girls played solid throughout the rest of the game.

“We played a nice, complete game after the first quarter,” Wink said. “We started to pull away and played three strong quarters.”

The Vikings totaled six 3-pointers, with Becca Anderson sinking three of six, and Kendra Wells two of four attempts. Ana Miller also knocked down a 3-pointer. Anderson led the team with 13 points, Wells had 12 and Miller had 12 as well.

On defense the Vikings totaled 18 steals, with Becca Anderson leading with 6 rebounds and Megan Anderson helping out with five total.

Siren 57, Northwood 44 SIREN – Northwood put up a fight against the undefeated Siren Dragon girls on Friday, but were eventually beat, 57-44.

The game was within one point, Siren up 24-23, at halftime. The Dragons Team Rush City Frederic

1 2 3 4 10 8 9 13 11 14 13 13 Individual Statistics Rush City 2s 3s FTM/A Lauren Weber 1 3/6 Chelsea Kirchberg Jenna Scheffer 4 1/1 Bryanna Koehnle 3 Tomi Schellbach 2 2/2 Andrea Becker 1 2/3 Danica Schellbach 1 0/1 Kristy Carlson 1/2 1 4/5 Jami Friday Totals 12 1 13/20 Frederic Jade Johnson Megan Anderson Ana Miller Kim Jones Anna Tesch Chrissy Chenal Becca Anderson Kendra Wells Candace Buck Totals

2s 1 2 1 3 1 1 9

F 40 51 F TP - 5 1 2 9 5 6 5 6 3 4 - 3 4 1 - 6 20 40

3s FTM/A F TP 2/3 3 4 1/4 4 1 1 5/8 1 12 1 1 2 1/4 3 7 3 2/2 2 13 2 4/4 1 12 1 6 15/25 17 51

Braham 86, Grantsburg 16 BRAHAM – The Pirate girls traveled to Braham on Friday where they lost 8616.

Four players scored Grantsburg’s 16 points. Kortney Morrin had nine, Jessica Moyer made three and both Gabby Witzany and Nicole McKenzie made one field goal for two points. – Brenda Sommerfeld

Vikings Kendra Wells makes her way by Rush City defenders to the basket during their game on Friday night. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld scored 13 in the third quarter, while the Evergreens only managed eight. Siren totaled 20 points in the fourth to win the game.

“Northwood is a very good team that defeated us in the regular season last year and defeated us in the regional finals the year before that,” coach Ryan Karsten said. “The game was a battle with a very good opponent.”

Team Northwood Siren

1 2 3 4 13 10 8 13 18 6 13 20 Individual Statistics Northwood 2s 3s FTM/A Ashlea Blegen 2 5 5/6 Deanna Scheller 4 0/6 Katie Sohn 0/1 Ashley Block 1/4 Janie Murray 1 2/2 Amy Hermeiek Annie Block 2 3/6 9 5 11/25 Totals Siren Haily Mulroy Sarah Howe Carley Emery Janey Emery Meghan Baasch Jamie Fischbach Ashley Guevara Totals

2s 2 2 3 1 0 3 11

F 44 57 F TP 4 24 4 8 1 2 1 4 2 3 2 4 7 22 44

3s FTM/A F TP 2/4 5 6 2/4 - 2 3 2/2 3 15 2 5/7 3 17 2/6 4 4 1 1 3 4/6 4 10 6 17/29 20 57

Northwood’s senior point guard Ashlee Blegen was the Evergreens main scorer. She put in 24 points, totaled by five 3-pointers, two field goals and 5 of 6 free throws.

“The reason, in my opinion, that we played so well was the defensive effort Sarah Howe and Jamie Fischbach had on Belgen in the second half,” Karsten said. “The constant defensive pressure led directly to Blegen picking up two offensive fouls while being guarded by Sarah.”

While Howe and Fischbach played nice defense, Janey Emery, Carley Emery, Ashley Guevara and Haily Mulroy were putting the ball in the basket.

Janey totaled 17 points, Carley added 15, Guevara put up 10 and Mulroy conTeam Grantsburg Braham

1 2 3 4 4 3 5 4 25 27 25 9 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A Sarah Wald Gabrielle Witzany 1 Kortney Morrin 4 1/2 Jessica Moyer 1 1/2 Jordan Christopherson 0/2 Liz Gaffney Nicole McKenzie 1 Totals 7 2/6

Braham A. Eng E. Berndickson L. Anderson A. Turnquist K. Sorenson H. LaTourelle H. Dahlman B. Dahlman K. Bendickson A. Sybrant K. Nickles B. Cuda Totals

2s 1 1 2 5 1 7 12 3 32

Team Frederic Glenwood City

Siren’s Janey Emery drives the basketball around a Northwood player during their game on Friday. Emery had 17 points during the game.

2s 5 2 7 1 2 17

F TP 1 1 2 - 9 - 3 1 1 2 2 6 16

3s FTM/A F TP 1 - 5 1 3 5 4 4 2 - 6 1 1 13 - 2 2/4 - 16 1 1/2 - 28 1 1 1 6 1/2 - 1 6 4/8 11 86

1 2 3 4 4 10 18 11 16 12 15 14 Individual Statistics Frederic 2s 3s FTM/A Jade Johnson 1 1/6 Megan Anderson 5 0/1 Ana Miller 2 0/2 Anna Tesch Chrissy Chenal 3 1/4 Becca Anderson 1 3 6/11 Kendra Wells 1 Totals 13 3 8/24 Glenwood City Katelyn Mueller Bethany Mitch Brittany Myers Alex Lindstrom Rachel Myers Mackenzie Miller Amanda Woodington Totals

F 16 86

F 43 57 F 3 3 5 1 4 2 2 20

TP 3 10 4 7 17 2 43

3s FTM/A F TP 4/4 2 14 0/3 1 4 2 6/7 3 26 1/3 3 3 2/2 3 2 4/4 3 4 4 4 2 17/23 19 57

Glenwood City 57, Frederic 43 GLENWOOD CITY – The Vikings traveled to Glenwood City for a nonconference game last Thursday. It was the first of several nonconference games that will take place over the next several weeks, until they get back into playing conference games on Friday, Jan. 9, at home against Grantsburg.

“We had a great effort throughout versus Glenwood City,” said Vikings coach Troy Wink.

The Hilltoppers took a 16-4 lead into the second quarter, but Wink says the Vikings were able to keep it even throughout much of the game.

Megan Anderson received a doubledouble for her efforts on Thursday night, with 10 points and 16 rebounds.

Becca Anderson was able to hit some 3pointers on three different occasions in the second half, which added to her team leading 17 points. Chrissy Chenal contributed 17 points.

Wink said that had the girls shot better from the floor and from the freethrow line, the game might have been closer. Frederic shot just 8 of 24 from the free-throw line.

“Convert a few more shots and we could’ve been closer,” Wink said. – Marty Seeger Rush City 72, Grantsburg 32 RUSH CITY, Minn. – The Grantsburg Lady Pirates lost to Rush City, 72-32, during their game on Thursday.

Rush City took a 42-18 lead in the first half and continued on with 30 more points in the second for the win.

Grantsburg scored 14 points in the second two quarters.

Kortney Morrin led the team in points with a total of 21. She put up seven field goals, two 3-pointers and 1 of 3 free throws.

Sarah Wald, Gabbie Witzany and Nicole McKenzie were the other Pirates to score. Wald made four points, Witzancy contributed five and McKenzie added two. – Brenda Sommerfeld

Team Grantsburg Rush City

1st Half 2nd Half F 18 14 32 42 30 72 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Sarah Wald 2 3 4 Gabrielle Witzany 1 2/2 2 5 Angela Gaffney 1 Lisa Gaffney 2 Kortney Morrin 7 2 1/3 1 21 Jordan Christopherson 1 Liz Gaffney 3 Nicole McKenzie 1 1 2 Totals 10 3 3/5 14 32 Rush City Lauren Webber Chelsea Kirchberg Jenna Scheffer Bryanna Koehnle Emily Swanson Toni Schellbach Andrea Becker Danica Schellbach Ashley Strenke Kristy Carlson Jami Friday CeCe Hanson Totals

2s 2 8 5 5 3 2 1 1 4 2 33

3s FTM/A F TP 2/2 1 2 0/4 3 4 1 16 0/1 1 10 1/2 - 11 1 6 3/6 - 7 - 2 1 1 2 - 8 1 4 6/15 10 72

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

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Unity downed by Clayton Frederic 38, Clear Lake 36 FREDERIC – No game stats were available at press time for a box score or game roundup.

All other boys teams win during last week Clayton 59, Unity 33

Luck 67, Turtle Lake 34 LUCK – Harry Severson-Dickinson has been hitting some key buckets for the Cardinals lately. Luck hosted Turtle Lake last Thursday and SeversonDickinson kept the team in the lead with nine points coming from the outside in the first half alone. According to coach Rick Giller the team got off to a great start with Brennan Olson providing 11 points on from the inside while Severson-Dickinson and the rest of the crew knocked down the threes.

“Harry kept up his shooting by knocking down two more three’s in the second quarter which led to a 37-15 halftime lead,” Giller said.

Carson Giller and Nick Morgan also provided an outside threat for the Cardinals to go up easily. Olson again led the charge with 27 points, and Severson-Dickinson added 13 and Morgan shot nine points.

by Marty Seeger BALSAM LAKE – Unity hosted a tough Clayton Bears team on Monday night in nonconference action, but solid defense and an outside threat proved the difference in the win.

The Eagles stuck with the Bears from the start of the first quarter with Brady Flaherty getting four of the teams six first quarter points. Flaherty led the team with 14 points.

Clayton took an 11-6 lead into the second quarter, and pressured Unity into forcing some turnovers, while the Bears opened up the game with a series of 3pointer that opened up the game considerably. Four of Clayton’s 3-pointers came in the second quarter as the Bears outscored Unity by 13 points. The 3pointers continued for the Bears into the second half as they were able to knock down three more from the outside in the third quarter and shoot 15 of 18 from the free-throw line.

Unity will travel to Luck on Tuesday, Jan. 6, for their next game of the season.

Luck 72, Chetek 37 LUCK – The Cardinals made it look easy against the Bulldogs of Chetek last Saturday night in a noncoference game.

The team was able to convert 16 points on fast breaks alone, and senior Brennan Team Clayton Unity

1 2 3 4 11 24 16 8 6 11 8 8 Individual Statistics Clayton 2s 3s FTM/A Brandon Schaffer 0 2 2/2 Derek Stesniak 2 1 0/2 Cory Ladwig Justin Young Trevor Klatt 1 Carter Anderson 2 2 5/6 Tyler Ketz 1 2 4/4 Taylor Dayton 1 1 2/2 Brett Anderson 3 2/2 Totals 10 8 15/18 Unity Sam Bengtson Seth Mckenzie Luke Hilleshiem Brady Flaherty Tim Hallin Eric Goulet Jared Mork Totals

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2s 1 3 2 6 2 1 15

F 59 33 F 3 3 1 1 1 0 2 2 13

TP 8 7 2 15 12 7 8 59

3s FTM/A F TP 1/2 3 3 3 6 2 4 2/4 4 14 0/3 1 3 4 - 2 3/9 16 33

Unity’s Eric Goulet goes up for a layup against Clayton on Monday night. – Photo by Marty Seeger Team Chetek Luck

1 2 3 4 12 8 10 7 20 19 17 16 Individual Statistics Chetek 2s 3s FTM/A Blake Bowers Sam Zwernik 1 1 1/2 Blake Broaddus 1 Shawn Sanders 2 2 2/8 Lukas Marty Jared Taft Brandon Zeman 3 Jake Nicholson 5 1/2 Totals 12 3 4/12 Luck Harry Severson-Dickinson Cole Mortel Nick Morgan Adam Anderson Brennan Olson Alec Mortel Carson Giller Totals

2s 4 3 2 1 13 2 3 28

F 37 72 F 4 3 1 2 1 4 1 2 18

TP 6 2 12 6 11 37

3s FTM/A F TP 2/2 1 10 2 6 1/2 2 5 3 2 5/8 - 31 5/6 1 9 3/5 3 9 16/23 12 72

Olson led the team with what coach Rick Giller called a “quiet” 31 points, followed by Harry SeversonDickinson’s 10 points and Carson Giller and Alec Mortel’s nine points apiece.

“Though we are winning we still have a lot of things to work on, both offensively and defensively, so I’m looking forward to the break so we can work on these things,” coach Giller commented.

The Cardinals next game will be at home against Unity on Tuesday, Jan. 6.

Team Turtle Lake Luck Turtle Lake Matt Connell Nate Roemhill Jordan Rush Jake Varone Aaron Lindsley Reed Molls Mark Flanagen David Sollman Totals

1 2 3 4 11 4 10 9 20 17 15 15 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A 1 1 2 2 1 2/2 1 4 0/2 1 2/2 9 4 4/6

Luck Taylor Horsager Harry Severson-Dickinson Cole Mortel Nick Morgan Brennan Olson Alec Mortel Carson Giller Derek Buck Totals

2s 2 2 3 10 1 1 1 20

F 34 67 F TP - 3 1 8 - 9 3 2 3 8 1 1 2 4 11 34

3s FTM/A F TP 2 3 - 13 3 4 1 1 9 1 4/4 3 27 5/6 - 7 1 - 5 - 2 6 9/10 9 67

Team Grantsburg Pine City

1st Half 2nd Half F 25 30 55 18 26 44 Individual Statistics Grantsburg 2s 3s FTM/A F TP Connar Goetz 1 2/2 3 4 Ben Larson 5 1/4 2 11 Tyler Myers 6 6/6 1 18 Brent Myers 2 Jake Ryan 1 Jason Jensen 4 2 8 Thane Larson 2 2 2 10 Trent Bonneville 2 0/3 3 4 Totals 20 2 9/15 16 55

Luck’s Nick Morgan goes for the ball in the hands of a Chetek player on Saturday. – Photo by Sue Tolan

Pine City Schmidt Lutz Bencie Carlson Fischer Geisler Shuey Totals

2s 3 1 1 3 4 1 13

3s FTM/A F TP 1 4 9 2/2 4 4 - 2 5/6 4 11 2/5 3 10 3 6/8 2 8 1 15/21 20 44

Grantsburg 55, Pine City 44 PINE CITY, Minn. – The Grantsburg Pirate boys continue sailing through, win after win. The Pirates competed against Pine City on Thursday, who they beat, 55-44.

Grantsburg started out leading, 25-18, after the first half and continued on to win by an 11-point gap.

Six of the Pirates scored during the game. Tyler Myers led the team with 18 points. Myers made 100 percent of his free throws, going in 6 for 6. Ben Larson made 11 points, Thane Larson added 10 and Jason Jensen made eight. Connar Goetz and Trent Bonneville each contributed four. – Brenda Sommerfeld Siren 44, Northwood 31 SIREN – The Dragon boys tallied up their second win of the season during their 44-31 victory over the Northwood Evergreens on Thursday night.

Siren outscored the Evergreens, 27-11, during the first half. Northwood tried to come back in the second scoring 20 points to Siren’s 17, but it was not enough to close the first-half gap.

“We led 38-18 after three quarters of play,” coach Jon Ruud explained, “and that was a testament to our improved half-court defense as well as good patience on offense.”

Charlie Brown scored 12 points. He made 100 percent of his free throws going 6 for 6 and he put up three field goals.

Brennen Moose scored 11, Andrew Brown added 10 points for the Dragons, Elijah Hinze had seven and Vince Nasman contributed four. – Brenda Sommerfeld

Team Siren Northwood Siren Elijah Hinze Luke Bollant Charlie Brown Vince Nasman Brennen Moose Andrew Brown Totals Northwood Melby Stariha Radzak Jade Marlin Dahlberg Richard B. Ross T. Ross Totals

1 2 3 4 11 16 11 6 7 4 17 13 Individual Statistics 2s 3s FTM/A 3 1/1 3 6/6 2 0/1 4 1 5 17 1 7/8 2s 2 1 2 2 3 1 11

F 44 31 F 3 2 4 1 4 1 15

TP 7 12 4 11 10 44

3s FTM/A F TP 1 1 3 1 5 7 2 0/2 3 2 0/2 - 4 1 1/4 2 5 2/2 - 8 1 2 2 3/10 15 31

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

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End of an era It came with a bit of surprise to several people after hearing the news that Byron Higgin was no longer employed with the Burnett County Sentinel.

Marty the Although Seeger Sentinel is essentially a competitor to the Inter-County The Leader, I can’t help but to think that Bottom Line what Byron did while he was there made the InterCounty Leader a better newspaper.

Competition can sometimes bring out the best in a lot of different ways.

Competition, in my mind, makes a great newspaper.

Byron’s level of sports coverage in the way of photos, feature writing and everything that came with it was tough to compete with. It made other reporters, including myself, stressed at times knowing that Byron might have the big story and we might miss out.

Sometimes he’d scoop us with the big story, and other times we’d scoop him.

Getting a scoop on another newspaper is always a good feeling, and when it came against Byron it felt even better.

That’s a compliment, because I always felt that Byron was at the top of his

A R E A Hacker’s Lanes

Sunday Afternoon Mixed Standings: Chippewa Checks 66, Mark’s Girls 65, The Gutter Busters 57, Sandbaggers 57, Spare-Us 56, Hole in the Wall 46, Gold Rush 36, Hot Shots 35.

Women’s games: Gail Linke (MG) 200, Audre Pardun (HITW) 177, Cheryl Matrious (CC) 176.

Women’s series: Gail Linke (MG) 536, Audrey Pardun (HITW) 471, Dorothy Barfknecht (HS) 460.

Men’s games: Rick Benjamin (CC) 216, Scott Morrison (GR) 205, Jim Loomis (SU) 194.

Men’s series: Scott Morrison (GR) 599, Rick Benjamin (CC) 570, Jim Loomis (SU) 553.

Team games: Chippewa Checks 851, Spare-Us 825, Gold Rush 823.

Team series: Spare-Us 2406, Hole in the Wall 2385, Gold Rush 2378.

Splits converted: 4-7-9: Gary Barfknecht. 5-7: Gail Linke (x2). 5-10: Melinda Linke. 3-10: Brian Johnson; Rick Benjamin.

Monday Afternoon Seniors Standings: Cardinals 37, Badgers 31, Zebras 30, Bears 30, Nite Hawks 29, Swans 27, Eagles 27, Bye 0.

Women’s games: Joan Anderson 186, Betty Schandorff 175, Carol Messer 174.

Women’s series: Betty Schandorff 483, Lila Larson 443, Joan Anderson 434.

Men’s games: Chuck Moyer 212, Dennis Bohn 201, Chuck Hahr 199.

Men’s series: Dennis Bohn 552, Chuck Moyer 511, Roger Messer 498.

Team games: Nite Hawks 673, Zebras 625, Eagles 612.

Team series: Nite Hawks 1908, Eagles 1807, Cardinals 1690.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 74, Thrivent Financial 68, AnchorBank 64, House of Wood 60, Miller’s Chicks 57, Mane Attractions 56, Bottle Shop 55, Bye 14.

Individual games: Merry Yates (HL) 224, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 209, Kathy Josephsen (AB) 195.

Individual series: Merry Yates (HL) 524, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 514, Janet Brewster (MA) 499.

Team games: Hacker’s Lanes 717, AnchorBank 649, The Bottle Shop 624.

Team series: Hacker’s Lanes 2002, AnchorBank 1796, The Bottle Shop 1791.

Tuesday Classic Standings: Hacker’s Lanes 134.5, Yellow Lake Lodge 128.5, Great Northern Outdoors 125, Bottle Shop 120, Olsen & Son 92.5, SCVH 76, Reliables 55, Pioneer Bar 48.5.

Individual games: Ron Skow 247, Dale Gregory 245, Tom Coen 237.

Individual series: Brett Daeffler 678,

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game. It felt like a back-and-forth battle each week, and in many ways makes this job pretty fun, even with a little stress.

Byron was relentless when it came to pursuing news stories and events big and small throughout the community.

He was a true newspaper reporter and had plenty of years of experience to back it up.

But most readers and observers will remember Byron most for his in-depth sports coverage and overall love of the athletes who played the game. To Byron, it was all about the kids, and it showed immensely in just watching him work on the sidelines, and in the articles and photographs he created when the games were through.

Byron and I first brushed shoulders at a baseball game in Webster during the summer of 2006. It was just my second assignment as a sports reporter. I couldn’t tell you who won the game; who the Webster boys played or what kind of story I wrote, but I’ll bet Byron could. He knew the ins and outs of every game and every team as much as you could within the realm of high school sports. It’s part of what made him a great sports reporter. His “On the Bench” columns further illustrated his love for sports – especially baseball, which was definitely Byron’s favorite.

Despite feeling the competitive pressures of the job, I always felt as though Byron and I got along well. There was never a dull moment, and he even taught me a few things along the way

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McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Madness Standings: Pepie’s Gals 6, Peper Tire & Align. 6, Scottay’s Trucking 6, Alleycats 4, Ole’s Country Market 4, McKenzie Lanes 2, Mishaps 2, Bye 2.

Individual games: Barbara Benson 201, Julia Delougherty 186, Linette Erickson 183.

Individual series: Julia Delougherty 507, Barbara Benson 482, Brenda Carlson 469.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Ole’s Country Market 602, Pepies’ Gals 594, Peper Tire & Align. 592.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Pepie’s Gals 1712, Peper Tire & Align. 1698, McKenzie Lanes 1693.

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Milltown Appl. 74, Edina Divas 65, Sam’s Carpentry 56, McKenzie Lanes 53.5, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 51.5, Metal Products 36.5, Frederic Truck & Tractor 27.5, Bye 33.

Individual games: Amber Duncan 218, Lois Hermanson 217, Dana Amundson 200.

Individual series: Jane Smith 524, Brenda Lehmann 520, Amber Duncan 514.

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Several laughs were shared on the sidelines over the course of just two years. – Photo by Steve Johnson about what it takes to be a reporter.

You never knew what to expect from Byron, but I could always tell when he was working on something bigger than just the regular sports coverage that week. He was less talkative, and seemed extremely focused. Then, as papers were distributed days later, a well-written game story, unique photographs and complete game coverage filled the pages.

Byron certainly had a knack for sports reporting and brought an inter-

B O W L I N G Ron Skow 670, Dale Gregory 651.

Team games: Bottle Shop 664, Great Northern Outdoors 654, Yellow Lake Lodge 647.

Team series: Bottle Shop 1884, Great Northern Outdoors 1858, Yellow Lake Lodge 1803.

Tuesday Late Standings: Joe Blow 38, Red Rollers 31, Terminators 19, Cushing Rollers 18, LCR 15, Bye 0.

Individual games: Rick Hach 199, Frank Boerbon 197, John Wallner 194.

Individual series: Frank Boerbon 540, Rick Hach 530, John Wallner 512.

Team games: Joe Blow 501, Red Rollers 497, Terminators 471.

Team series: Joe Blow 1487, Red Rollers 1400, Terminators 1275.

Thursday Late Standings: Bazey Racing 39, Johnson Upholstery 34, Hansen Farms Inc. 31, Stotz & Company 29, Fisk Trucking 24, Hog Wild BBO & Grill 23.

Individual games: Ole Baillargeon 243, Dennis McKenzie 232, Jon Anderson 231.

Individual series: Dale Frandsen 624, Jon Anderson & Roger Fisk 610, Ole Baillargeon 591.

Team games: Bazey Racing 939, Hansen Farms Inc. 890, Stotz & Company 859.

Team series: Bazey Racing 2612, Hansen Farms Inc. 2550, Stotz & Company 2548.

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Team games: (Handicap score) Edina Divas 1005.

Team series: (Handicap score) Metal Products Co. 2874.

Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: Lane Crasher 51, Kluge 49, Mom’s Boys 47, Wild Boys 39.5, Lemon Heads 36, Jim’s Flooring 29.5.

Women’s games: Brenda Lehmann 193, Linda Larson 149, Janice Berg 147.

Women’s series: Brenda Lehmann 522, Linda Larson 433, Janice Berg 430.

Men’s games: Jim Coen 231, Jim Lammert 181, Jeff Lehmann 180.

Men’s series: Jim Coen 524, Jim Lammert 488, Jeff Lehmann 480.

Team games: Lemon Heads 455.

Team series: Lemon Heads 1305.

Tuesday Women’s Day League Standings: B & H Builders 25, Hauge Dental 23, Tomlinson Insurance 23, Custom Outditter 17, Country Gals 16, Kassel Tap 15, Gutter Dusters 12, Bye 5.

Individual games: Kelley Hill 202, Jan Kruse 194, Denise F. Donaghue & Jane Smith 193.

Individual series: Denise F. Donaghue 532, Kelley Hill 531, Jane Smith 529.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Hauge Dental 836, Country Gals 826, Kassel Tap 788.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Hauge Dental 2364, B & H Builders 2316, Kassel Tap 2272.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Glass Bar 80.5, Greatland Transportation 75.5, Steve’s Appliance 75.5, Hack’s Pub 70.5, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 69, McKenzie Lanes 65.5, Dream Lawn 64.5, The Dugout 59.

Individual games: Norm Hansen 300, Mike Hill 257, Jim McKenzie 249.

Individual series: Norm Hansen 740, Bob Rettler 722, Mike Hill 718.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Glass Bar 1272, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 1220, Hack’s Pub 1171.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Glass

esting angle to every game. The countless hours and hard work he put into everything will certainly be missed. He may no longer work for the Sentinel, but there’s no doubt you’ll be seeing him around. I’m sure we’ll share laughs on the sidelines, baselines or in the bleachers again soon. The man could never pass up a good ballgame.

R E S U L T S Bar 3620, Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 3377, McKenzie Lanes 3328.

Wednesday Early Mixed Standings: Hendrick’s Motor 8, Lite House 8, JJ’s Club 6, Top Spot 6, Suzie Q’s 2, Hack’s Pub 2, Cutting Edge 0, Holiday StationStores 0.

Women’s games: Patty Walker 180, Kathy Braund 175, Janice Fox 168.

Women’s series: Janice Fox 468, Kathy Braund 445, Patty Walker 445.

Men’s games: Merlin Fox 257, Mike Welling 254, Gene Braund 243.

Men’s series: Mike Welling 704, Merlin Fox 595, Ervin Lehmann 588.

Team games: (Handicap scores) JJ’s Club 694, Hendrick’s Motor 664, Lite House 663.

Team series: (Handicap scores) JJ’s Club 1892, Hendrick’s Motor 1875, Lite House 1836.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 40, Reed’s Marina 40, Dalles Electric 38, McKenzie Lanes 32, Edina Realty 32, Davy’s Construction 30, Harvest Moon 28, Hanjo Farms 6.

Individual games: Brad Hacker 269, Matt Campeau 261, Jason Loney & Dan Flaherty 256.

Individual series: Jason Loney 682, Dan Flaherty 671, Brad Hacker 665.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 1113, Harvest Moon 1065.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Tiger Express 3020, Harvest Moon 2977.

Thursday Night Ladies (Week 14) Standings: Bont Chiropractic 49.5, Hack’s Pub 47.5, Hauge Dental 45.5, RiverBank 41, Eagle Valley Bank 40, K.C. Electrical 35, Cutting Edge Pro 31, Century 21 30.5.

Individual games: Lila Larson 208, MJO Hacker 202, Melanie Erickson 197.

Individual series: MJO Hacker 571, Dawn Blanski 557, Jen Whelan 529.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Bont Chiropractic 1060, Cutting Edge Pro 1033, Hauge Dental 1012.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Bont Chiropractic 2945, Hack’s Pub 2909, Eagle Valley Bank 2857.

Thursday Night Ladies (Week 15) Standings: Hack’s Pub 61.5, Bont Chiropractic 60.5, RiverBank 54, Hauge Dental 52.5, Eagle Valley Bank 49, K.C. Electrical 43.5, Cutting Edge Pro 42.5, Century 21 36.5.

Individual games: Shannon Cox 241, Annette Norlander 232, Denise Sandmann 223.

Individual series: Annette Norlander 643, Denise Donaghue 540, Lois Swenson 530.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Hauge Dental 1051, RiverBank 1017, Hack’s Pub 990.

Team series: (Handicap scores) RiverBank 2985, Hack’s Pub 2885, Hauge Dental 2871.

Black & Orange

Early Birds Standings: Log Cabin Store 6.5-5.5, Black & Orange 6-6, 10th Hole 6-6, Gandy Dancer Saloon 5.5-6.5.

Individual games: Carol Gullickson (GD) 198, Donna Crain (B&O) 184, Rita Tesch (10th) 174.

Individual series: Donna Crain (B&O) 530, Kay Casey (10th) 465, Rita Tesch (10th) 461.

Team games: Black & Orange 873, 10th Hole 865, Log Cabin Store 844.

Team series: 10th Hole 2429, Gandy Dancer Saloon 2422, Black & Orange 2399.

Games 50 or more above average: Carol Gullickson 198 (+67).

Monday Night Men’s Standings: Bruce’s Auto 3-1, Black & Orange 3-1, Pope’s Construction 2-2, Glass & Mirror Works 2-2, Larry’s LP 1-3, Vacant 1-3.

Individual games: Bob Brown (PC) 189, Mark Holmstrom (BA) 187, Curt Phelps (BA) 186.

Individual series: Mark Holmstrom (BA) 509, Dean Eytcheson (BA) 488, Curt Phelps (BA) 480.

Team games: Black & Orange 885, Bruce’s Auto 879, Pope’s Construction 871.

Team series: Glass & Mirror Works 2581, Bruce’s Auto 2553, Pope’s Construction 2508.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Lions 4-0, Northview Drive Inn 3-1, T & P Tree Service 3-1, Cashco 1-3, Black & Orange 1-3, 10th Hole 0-4.

Individual games: Larry Johnson (L) 199, Josh Johnson (L) 194, Monte Rinnman (C) 188.

Individual series: Larry Johnson (L) 545, Roger Tollander (C) 516, Jack Witzany (L) 510.

Team games: Lions 948, Northview Drive Inn 920, 10th Hole 911.

Team series: Lions 2755, Northview Drive Inn 2633, Cashco 2608.

Games 50 or more above average: Josh Johnson 194 (+54).

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

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Saints win easily over Turtle Lake-Clayton 3:34. Dennis McKinney won by a forfeit at 140 lbs. and Jared Peper was able to win by a 8-0 major decision over Derek Berrier at 160 lbs.

Brian Backus receives first-ever pin SCF 42, Turtle Lake-Clayton 19

Brian Backus (right) of St. Croix Falls threw Turtle Lake’s Kerry Dahl on his back in just 22 seconds last Thursday night. – Photo by Marty Seeger the Northern Badger Tournament set for Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 29-30, but wrestled Dylan Thill and received a pin in 1:27. Raygor has been agitated by a dislocated elbow since as early as the football season.

LEADER S P O R T S SCOREBOARD GIRLS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings

Team Siren St. Croix Falls Frederic Luck Unity Webster Grantsburg

Scores

Conf.

3-0 4-0 2-2 1-2 1-2 1-3 0-3

Overall 7-0 5-1 5-3 3-3 1-5 2-4 0-7

Thursday, Dec. 18 Glenwood City 57, Frederic 43 Rush City, Minn., 72, Grantsburg 32 Friday, Dec. 19 Siren 57, Northwood 44 Frederic 51, Rush City, Minn., 40 Braham, Minn., 86, Grantsburg 16

Upcoming

Tuesday, Dec. 23 6 p.m.

Clear Lake at St. Croix Falls 7:30 p.m. Cumberland at Unity Webster at Clayton Monday, Dec. 29 TBA Webster at Eagle River Tourney Tuesday, Dec. 30 TBA Webster at Eagle River Tourney 7 p.m.

Drummond at Siren

BOYS HOCKEY Standings

Amery/Unity Blizzard

Scores

6-2 2-6

Thursday, Dec. 18 Blizzard 3, Altoona 1 Amery/Unity 7, Spooner/Shell Lake 1 Saturday, Dec. 20 Amery/Unity 3, Park Falls/Phillips 2

Upcoming

Saturday, Dec. 27 TBA at Forest Lake, Minn., Holiday Tourney Monday, Dec. 29 TBA at Forest Lake, Minn., Holiday Tourney Tuesday, Dec. 30 TBA at Forest Lake, Minn., Holiday Tourney

GYMNASTICS Upcoming

Thursday, Jan. 8 6:30 p.m. Rush City, Minn. at Grantsburg

BOYS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Conference Standings

Team Luck Grantsburg Webster Siren St. Croix Falls Frederic Unity

Scores

Conf.

3-0 2-0 2-1 1-1 1-2 0-3 0-2

Overall 7-0 6-0 2-3 2-3 2-2 2-3 0-5

“He’s ready,” said Clark. “It was his choice and we taped [the elbow] up pretty good so it wasn’t going to get pulled out there. If he was wrestling some of the top kids in the state we might have pulled him, but he needs to get some mat time against these kids, so that was our decision there.”

Clear Lake 61, Unity 16 CLEAR LAKE – The Eagles started out Thursday night with a total of five forfeits in the 103, 112, 135, 215 and 285lb. weight classes last Thursday night.

Dustin McKinney was the first wrestler at 130 lbs. to get points on the board as he pinned Austin Burke in

LFG at Robert Mackey MAPLE – The LFG wrestling team made the long trip to Maple last Saturday, with three wrestlers ending the day with winning records. The team lost four of five duals throughout the day, with their first loss coming to Rice Lake by a score of 42-30. They lost their second dual to Northwestern 581-21, but beat Northwood 48-18. LFG was defeated by Hinckley 48-12 and then lost to Superior 51-27.

Frederic’s Ben Ackerley, had the team’s best record of the day with four wins and one loss. Devin Douglas went 3-2 at 285 lbs., and Ray Kurkowski went 3-2 103 lbs.

Northwestern was the tournament winner at 5-0, followed by Hinckley, 4-1, Rice Lake, 3-2, Superior, 2-3, Luck 1-4, and Northwood, 0-5. LFG wrestle at home in their next dual against Turtle Lake at Luck on Thursday, Jan. 8.

Clear Lake 61, Unity 16 CLEAR LAKE – The Eagles wrestling team traveled to Clear Lake Monday night, but forfeited the first four weight classes. Dustin McKinney was the only Unity wrestler with a pin, as he defeated Austin Burke in 3:34 at 130 lbs. Jared Peper, 160 lbs., defeated Derek Berrier by an 8-0 decision.

DANCE INSTRUCTOR OPPORTUNITY - VOLUNTEER Frederic School District

A number of students and parents of the Frederic High School students are looking for an adult individuals interested in helping them organize a dance line group. This would be a volunteer position and the individual would be responsible for developing a dance line and the responsibilities would include organizing tryouts, selecting a team, developing routines and working with the administration and athletic department when planning performances. Questions concerning the position and requirements can be directed to the high school office at 715-327-4223.

Applications, resume and credentials can be sent to: Ray Draxler, Principal Frederic 7-12 School 1437 Clam Falls Drive Frederic, WI 54837 Deadline for applications is January 9, 2008.

The Frederic School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Thursday, Dec. 18 Siren 44, Northwood 31 Luck 67, Turtle Lake 34 Grantsburg 55, Pine City, Minn., 44 Friday, Dec. 19 Frederic 38, Clear Lake 36 Saturday, Dec. 20 Luck 72, Chetek 37 Monday, Dec. 22 Clayton 59, Unity 33

Upcoming

Tuesday, Dec. 23 7:30 p.m. Clear Lake at St. Croix Falls Monday, Dec. 29 TBA Frederic at Clayton Tourney 7:30 p.m. Drummond at Siren Tuesday, Dec. 30 TBA Frederic at Clayton Tourney 7:30 p.m. Hayward at Webster

475466 18-19L

by Marty Seeger TURTLE LAKE – Despite four Turtle Lake-Clayton forfeits and three double forfeits, several Saints wrestlers had a successful night in Turtle Lake last Thursday.

“We had some good matches,” said Saints coach Dan Clark.

The first match of the night ended quickly as heavyweight Brian Backus turned Kerry Dahl of Turtle LakeClayton in just 22 seconds. It was the first pin of the junior’s high school career.

“That was a big win for him,” Clark said.

Clark was also pleased with freshman Jake Radamacher, who had an exciting match against Colten Kozial at 160 lbs.

Radamacher lost in a 6-4 decision, but Clark thought it was his best match so far this season, and believes he’ll keep getting better as the season goes on.

“Besides that, I think everybody did well, those two kids stood out as doing extremely well, so we’ll get through this and get put through the ringer tomorrow,” said Clark, who was speaking of the teams triple dual in Minnesota on Friday, Dec. 19, against Chisago Lakes, Minn., Goodhue, Minn., and Rush City, Minn.

Other top matches against Turtle Lake-Clayton included Jesse Wilson’s pin over Bryan Overbeek at 152 lbs., which ended in 1:44. Joe Raygor, 171 lbs., was not expected to wrestle until

SCF travels to Chisago CHISAGO LAKES, Minn. – St. Croix Falls traveled to Chisago Lakes, Minn., for a triple dual last Friday night. The Saints wresters defeated Rush City, Minn., and fell to Chisago Lakes, Minn., and Goodhue, Minn.

Those with winning records included Taylor Sempf, 125 lbs., (2-1), Jake Bruns, 130 lbs., (3-0), Shaw Amundson, 135 lbs., (3-0), Jesse Wilson, 152 lbs., (2-1), Jake Radamacher, 160 lbs., (2-1) and Joe Raygor, 171 lbs., (3-0).

WRESTLING Upcoming

Monday, Dec. 29 TBA St. Croix Falls at Northern Badger Unity at Northern Badger Tuesday, Dec. 30 TBA St. Croix Falls at Northern Badger Unity at Northern Badger

GIRLS HOCKEY Standings

Lady Blizzard

Scores

4-1-2

Thursday, Dec. 18 Lady Blizzard 4, Menomonie 3 Friday, Dec. 19 Lady Blizzard 9, Lakeland 1

Upcoming

Tuesday, Dec. 23 7 p.m.

Moose Lake, Minn. at Grantsburg Friday, Dec. 26 TBA at Arrowhead Holiday Tourney Saturday, Dec. 27 TBA at Arrowhead Holiday Tourney

PREPS

OF THE

NAME: Charlie Brown SCHOOL: Siren YEAR: Senior COMMENTS: Charlie Brown has consistently been the leading scorer for the Siren boys basketball team. He helped his team to victory on Thursday over Northwood with 12 points.

The previous week, Brown scored 25 of Charlie Brown the Dragons 54 in their win over Webster and 15 in the team’s two-point loss to the Shell Lake Lakers. – Brenda Sommerfeld

WEEK

NAME: Katie Meyer SCHOOL: St. Croix Falls YEAR: Sophomore COMMENTS: The St. Croix Falls girls gymnastics team has Katie Meyer as an all-around competitor. During the meet against the Grantsburg Pirates, Meyer took first place all-around with the Katie Meyer highest total score. She received first place for her floor routine and third place on the uneven bars event. – Brenda Sommerfeld

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

O UTDOORS INTER! COUNTY LEADER

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

A fine time to obeserve A fine, long shadow cast a gray streak across the front of my grandma’s lawn last Sunday afternoon. It glided sharply across the frigid landscape from the base of one of her 40-foot white spruce trees. She called me to the patio to see it through less than a quarter inch of glass that separated us from a biting wind that had been sending temperatures further

Marty Seeger The Bottom Line

A red-bellied woodpecker clings to the side of a white oak.

below zero all day. As we peered out the window a gust of wind curled up a dusting of snow, and hurled it into the air causing it to disappear quickly.

“It looks like a snowmobile has cut just perfectly across the lawn,” she said, pointing toward the long gray streak.

Everything had a long sleek shadow stretched as far as it could be last Sunday, signaling our first day of winter, or winter solstice, as some call it.

Either way, it certainly doesn’t feel like the first day of winter, since its already had a hold on us for well over a month now.

Sunday was the shortest source of daylight all season, which in turn, created our longest night. It’s a slight change toward longer days and shorter nights, yet we still have close to three months of potentially cold, wintry weather.

In many ways, this time of year is best suited for kicking back, relaxing and taking advantage of the simple pleasures in life. Fortunately, on some of the colder days, people can still enjoy a piece of the outdoors from within the home in the form of Wisconsin’s bounty of winter bird species. With the right concoction of birdseed or suet, a wide variety can be drawn in throughout the winter, and you never know what might fly up to the feeder.

The shorter day didn’t seem to bother the birds on Sunday, nor did the colder weather, as they pecked busily at a clump of suet Grandma had in one of her grand white oaks not far the patio.

Several of the most common winter birds visited throughout the day, including dark-eyed juncos, and at least three woodpecker species including the red-bellied, hairy and downy. It was surprising not to see a single chickadee, (which is a winter favorite of mine) but the ever-present blue jay was there to harass the other birds, as well as a white-breasted nuthatch.

Similar birds tend to visit my home throughout the winter, including a dozen northern cardinals that have been arriving at the same time during the early morning hours and late evening. Six are the beautiful bright red males that shine bright against the snow.

Taking the feeders down in the evening has kept the deer away, but a flock of about 22 hen turkeys, (including one with an 8-inch beard) has taken a slight interest in the seeds on the ground under the feeder. Only time

A blue jay, and a dark-eyed junco sat comfortably on the limbs of an old white oak last Sunday during the winter solstice.– Photos by Marty Seeger will tell if they get brave enough to hang around for more than just a few minutes.

For some folks throughout the winter, just watching birds is not enough.

Fortunately, there are several programs out there to allow people to play an active role with birds during the winter.

Last weekend Crex Meadows held its annual Christmas bird count, with several bird enthusiasts joining a handful of experts to gather information about the different species found. The information is used in establishing bird populations and other useful scientific information.

Those who still want to participate in such a similar program can still do so on a national level during the Great Backyard Bird Count, which is a program running from Feb. 13-16, and sponsored by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society. Information about the Backyard Bird Count can be found online at www.birdsource.org/gbbc/

A white-breasted nuthatch has a unique way of going up and down the the tree.

Snowshoe at Somers Lake FREDERIC – Find a new pair of snowshoes under the tree? Or maybe it’s time to dust off the pair from last Christmas, unused because of our recent snowless winters.

This year there’s snow, and the Somers Lake Snowshoe Trail is ready to go. The trail is part of the Polk County

park system, and offers a total of five miles of hiking trails arranged in three loops. The shortest is about a half mile in length and very easy to hike. The outer loop is two miles long and is a bit more difficult.

A bonus feature of the outer loop is finding a park bench at the furthest

point, where you can sit overlooking the relatively undeveloped Somers Lake, and rest up for the return hike. Also close by is a geocaching site – can you find it?

The trail is located four miles east of Frederic on CTH I, 1.4 miles north of the intersection of CTH I and CTH W.

For information: 800-222-POLK, 715485-9294, www.polkcounty tourism.com. – from Polk County Tourism and Promotional Council

Ski trails open FREDERIC – The early snow has brought something unheard of in recent years – Nordic skiing in December.

Frederic’s two ski trails, the Coon Lake Trail and the Trade River Trail, have been groomed and are in good condition for skiing. Volunteers from the Viking Ski Club were rested and ready when the snow arrived, and

immediately began rolling a base that set up nicely with the following cold weather.

The Coon Lake Trail, just east of Coon Lake on Ash Street, has a little over five kilometers, and the Trade River Trail, 11/2 miles south of Frederic on 150th has grown to about seven kilometers. Both trails are groomed for classic and skat-

ing, with tracks set when a sufficient base is present.

Grooming is done by volunteers, and donation boxes are provided at both locations. Donations are appreciated to help with the cost of grooming and maintaining the trails.

For information on our local trails contact 800-222-POLK, visit

www.polkcountytourism.com or call 715-327-4294. For information on area or regional cross-country skiing trails visit www.norwiski.com or www.skinnyski.com. – from Viking Ski Club, Frederic

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Habitat family in new home for Christmas

Construction supervisor Jeff Butler had the pleasure of presenting his key to the newest Habitat for Humanity home to its owner, Stephanie Bakke. This signified for Butler that his job was done; the house was ready for its new occupants. “It takes a whole lot of people to build a house,” Butler commented, mentioning that Wild Rivers Habitat uses local vendors as their suppliers whenever possible. He compared the volunteer effort to a track team, with some people acting as sprinters, others as long-distance runners.

This is the 16th home built by Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity since their first house was built and dedicated Dec. 13, 1996. The goal – to get the house ready for the family to move in by Christmas – was realized. The Polk County Habitat chapter has joined with the Wild Rivers chapter, and two more homes will be built by the groups in 2009.

Jim Dale from Voyager Village, president of Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity, showed the sign-in clipboard for work needing to be done on the latest Habitat house. The clipboard was full, indicating that all the work had been done, and the house was ready for its new owner, Stephanie Bakke.

Pastor Cindy Glocke from Grace United Methodist Church, Webster, gave the opening prayer and devotion at the Service of Blessing for the new Habitat home in Siren Saturday, Dec. 20. Habitat for Humanity as an organization came into being in 1976.

Last year, the international organization served nearly 50,000 families, 6,000 of them in the United States, and completed their 300,000th home.

Jeff Butler, construction manager for Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity, awards Chuck Molitor one of two Golden Hammer awards given this year.

Butler thanked him for his many hours of volunteer work on 14 of the 16 builds since the start of the program in Burnett and Polk counties. Beside Chuck is his wife, Carla. Forefront, (L to R): Dave McGrane, vice president of WRHFH, and Gil Hoel, former president, applaud. The second Golden Hammer was awarded to Dave Weiss, Osceola, who was unable to attend the dedication. — Photo by Jackie Thorwick

The Women of Lakeside Community Lutheran Church at A & H, represented by Janet Dale, presented quilts to Stephanie Bakke, the owner of the newest Habitat for Humanity-built house in Siren. The quilt held up by Dale and her husband, Jim, contained hand-written goodwill messages for Bakke.

The group provided a dishwasher and several other items for the new house.

Members of Siren Covenant Church, as Bakke’s new neighbors, presented her with a welcoming gift bag of goodies.

Stephanie Bakke and her nearly 2-year-old son, Landyn, are shown here during the Saturday, Dec. 20, dedication of their new home, the 16th home built by volunteers from Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity.

The dedication was held at Siren Covenant Church, across the street from the home, because of the inclement weather. “The truck is loaded. We’re ready to move in,” said Bakke, a nursing student from Webster who is taking a full load of classes.

Stephanie Bakke, newest Habitat homeowner, is given her sweat equity certificate

by Jeff Butler, construction manager.

Habitat homeowners are required to put in at least 300 hours of time building their home. Bakke and her family and friends nearly doubled that, working 591 hours. — Photo by Jackie Thorwick

Photos by Nancy Jappe except where noted

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

Polk County circuit court Jesse T. Adams, New Richmond, issuance of worthless checks, $283.43.

Leo B. Bach, Luck, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Jose L. Barranco-Pablo, Emerald, speeding, $186.00.

Barron Ag Lime LLC, Barron, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $216.86.

Michael J. Bauer, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Shay L. Benitez, Turtle Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Amanda K. Biedler, Luck, speeding, $160.80.

Joseph D. Boles, River Falls, speeding, not guilty plea.

Twyla J. Bubiltz, Centuria, speeding, $160.80.

Dana A. Calhoun, Phillips, passing in no-passing zone, $198.60.

Gary L. Cottor, Osceola, speeding, $160.80.

Thaddeus R. Cuturia, Balsam Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Christopher E. Dick, Balsam Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Logan L. Dobberschutz, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Daniel C. Douse, Milltown, operate without valid license, $186.00.

DRT Transport Inc., Bloomer, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $262.98.

Bridget M. Fenton, Luck, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Nathan E. Fisher, New Richmond, speeding, $211.20.

Brandon L. Fouks, Deer Park, speeding, $160.80.

Dean E. Frieler, Hanover, Minn., nonregistration of auto, $160.80.

Shannon E. Gerue, Janesville, speeding, not guilty plea.

Gibson Transfer Inc., Rice Lake, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $277.09.

Linda M. Gieseke, Barron, speeding, not guilty plea.

Alexander O. Gillitzer, Clear Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Eileen M. Graham, Hudson, speeding, $160.80.

Ground Level Excavating, Amery, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $323.71.

Kelly A. Grube, Amery, speeding, $160.80.

Karl I. Hakanson, Baraboo, speeding, $211.20.

Laura E. Hamacher, Becker, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Robert A. Hancock, Eden Prairie, speeding, $211.20.

Sandra K. Harelstad, Cameron, speeding, $160.80.

Ross A. Hartman, Stanchfield, Minn., operate without valid license, $186.00.

Kristin J. Hays, Balsam Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, $160.80.

Kari J. Hislop, Clear Lake, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Kenneth A. Jewell, Houlton, speeding, $211.20.

Daniel R. Johnson, Centuria, nonregistration, $160.80; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Douglas G. Johnson, Luck, dog license, not guilty plea.

Jacob M. Johnson, Centuria, fail to stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Justin W. Jonet, Milltown, speeding, $160.80.

Gregory P. Jongbloedt, Woodbury, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Ricky L. Juleff, Clayton, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Susan M. Kaszas, Maplewood, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Anne R. Katz, Madison, speeding, $211.20.

Larry W. Knutson, Centuria, speeding, $160.80.

Mary M. Knutson, Lakeville, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

James A. Korus, Luck, speeding, $160.80.

Carye M. Kringle, Barron, owner’s liability – illegal pass school bus, $312.00.

Jennifer A. Kuhn, Clear Lake, trespass to dwelling, not guilty plea.

Curtis T. Lee, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Lisa M. Leopold, Baldwin, nonregistration of auto, $160.80.

Rachel M. Lewis, Balsam Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Brent A. Lindberg, Balsam Lake, operating with PAC .10 or more, $677.00, 6-month license suspension and order for assessment.

Tyson L. Lowe, Luck, speeding, $160.80.

Michael F. Lund, Clear Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Lynn R. Lusson, Luck, speeding, $186.00.

Martin 4 Trucking Inc., Glen Flora, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $320.69.

Ashley M. McCarty, Clear Lake, trespass to dwelling, $217.50.

Lisa A. McCoy, Luck, speeding, $186.00.

Mary McIlguham, Turtle Lake, speeding, $186.00.

Debbie A. Metzer, Crae, Ariz., seat belt violation, $10.00.

Dennis J. Miller, Ridgeland, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Richard J. Miller, Centuria, open intoxicants in public, $173.00.

Laurie Moomau, Campbell, Calif., speeding, $186.00.

Michael L. Moos, Cumberland, speeding, $186.00.

Thomas L. Mueller, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Matthew L. Newborg, Ellsworth, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Scott A. Newman, Osceola, speeding, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .10 or more, not guilty pleas.

Bryce C. Nielsen, Reedsburg, trespass to dwelling, $217.50.

Danielle N. Nordquist, Clayton, fail/stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Jared T. Norlander, Centuria, speeding, $160.80.

Kayla L. Norlander, Centuria, fail/stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Brian K. Northrop, Chanhassen, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Lois L. Ogilvie, Roseville, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

James D. Olson, Clear Lake, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Suzanne M. Olson, Clear Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Nora P. Ommundson, Luck, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Carolyn P. Palmer, Hibbing, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Heidi J. Paulson, Turtle Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Marybeth S. Peller, Somerset, speeding, $186.00.

Jared A. Peper, Milltown, speeding, $160.80.

Kenneth J. Peterson, Spicewood, Texas, speeding, $160.80.

Rodney W. Peterson, Centuria, vehicle tire, cuts or snags in excess, not guilty plea.

Sonja L. Pettengill, Frankenmuth, Mich., speeding, $160.80.

Daniel J. Poellinger, Ellsworth, speeding, not guilty plea.

Christy M. Poppe, Rice Lake, speeding, $186.00.

Daniel G. Posch, Dresser, possession of THC, $100.00; possess drug paraphernalia, $100.00.

Jeremy L. Rogers, Clayton, speeding, not guilty plea.

Brianna G. Rooney, Luck, speeding, $160.80.

Toni K. Rosemeyer-Koch, Madison, speeding, $211.20.

Lincoln T. Roth, Atkin, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Terry L. Ruth, Apple Valley, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Molly A. Salak-Rondeau, Hugo, Minn., issuance of worthless checks, $322.50.

Jennifer L. Sawatzke, Clayton, dog at large, $113.40.

Nicholas J. Schafer, Taylors Falls, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Christopher J. Scheff, Cumberland, speeding, $160.80.

Jamie R. Schmidt, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Eric N. Situmbeko, Hudson, speeding, $160.80.

John E. Soldner, Comstock, speeding, $160.80.

Woon Bong Song, Sykesville, Md., speeding, $211.20.

Shelly J. Spiegelberg, Ellsworth, speeding, $186.00.

Will E. Steen, Isanti, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Derec M. Strapon, Cable, speeding, $160.80.

Richard D. Strohman, Gordon, speeding, $186.00.

Chad W. Swager, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00; nonregistration of auto, not guilty plea.

Gary D. Swager, Bayport, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Zdzislaw J. Szczesny, Osceola, speeding, $160.80.

David J. Turek, Turtle Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Anna R. Vick, Isanti, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Derrick J. Waller, Grantsburg, speeding, $211.20.

Kate M. Weisenbeck, Amery, speeding, $160.80.

Steven F. Weiss, Blue Springs, Colo., speeding, $160.80.

Joseph R. Welter, Hayward, illegal pass of school bus reported, $312.00.

Jason R. West, Dayton, Minn., seat belt violation, $10.00.

Dustin D. Wickman, Milltown, operating while revoked, not guilty plea.

Douglas L. Wiltse, Frederic, speeding, $160.80.

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Jobless trend comes to Badger state

STATEWIDE - For most of the 2008, Wisconsin’s unemployment rate has held roughly steady even as the national jobless rate continued to climb. That all changed last month. Wisconsin’s unemployment rate spiked in November as the state’s economy lost about 25,000.

“I guess it finally caught up with us,” says Dennis Winters, chief economist for the state Department of Workforce Development. “We saw a big pop in the

unemployment numbers, which is... not that it’s surprising, I mean it’s a big number. We don’t normally get changes like this in a month-over-month basis.

But considering what’s going on in the Wisconsin, U.S. and global economy, it wasn’t all that unexpected.”

Wisconsin’s unemployment rate for November was 5.3 percent, up nearly a percent from October. Job cuts in leisure and hospitality led the decline, along with job losses in the manufacturing

and construction industries.

“I think we’ll see unemployment continue to rise in Wisconsin and the upper Midwest and across the nation,” warns Winter. “I think it’s all going to get a little bit worse before it gets better. They’re still trying to figure out ways to combat the economic downturn at Treasury and at the Fed, and when they get something that works and comes through, we’ll be able to turn this whole thing around and look for bluer skies a little

bit down the horizon.”

Wisconsin is among many states whose unemployment compensation funds are running low, although states can borrow from the federal government if they run out of money.

Wisconsin’s unemployment is still lower than the national rate, which grew to about 6.5 percent in November as the country shed more than a half million jobs. – Wisconsin Public Radio (Shawn Johnson)

Burnett County circuit court John F. Allgaier, Plymouth, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Charles D. Anderson, Grantsburg, seat belt violation, $10.00.

David A. Anderson, Grantsburg, speeding, not guilty plea.

David W. Anderson, Edina, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Eric R. Anderson, Cable, speeding, $211.20.

Gary D. Anderson, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Todd J. Anderson, Kokomo, Ind., speeding, $160.80.

Lauren L. Arnold, Rice Lake, operating while suspended, not guilty plea.

Sandra L. Audie, Sandstone, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Richard A. Bakke, Coon Rapids, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

James K. Barnard, Superior, speeding, $211.20.

Thomas J. Baumann, St. Francis, Minn., speeding, $160.00.

Antoinette J. Bearhart, Webster, OAR, not guilty plea.

Robert R. Belisle, Webster, operating while under influence, operating with PAC .02 or more, not guilty pleas.

Bryan N. Bennett, Grantsburg, inattentive driving, $173.40.

Edward J. Benton, Hayward, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Dean E. Bergquist, Shell Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

Michael A. Blatt, Webster, operating while under influence, speeding, not guilty pleas.

John T. Boden, White Bear Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Michael F. Borelli, Siren, operate recreation veh. in unauth. area, $160.80.

James D. Boutin, Danbury, OAR, not guilty plea.

Donald J. Buckentin, Oakdale, Minn., fail. to remove elevated device on state forest property, $186.00.

Steven E. Butler, Siren, shine wild animals (10 p.m.-7 a.m.), $208.40.

Chad R. Carlson, Webster, nonregistration of vehicle, not guilty plea.

Thomas L. Chadwick, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Jose M. Chavarria, Siren, operate w/o valid license, $186.00.

Jose M. Chaverria, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Thomas K. Claveau, Falcon Heights, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Commercial Transport Llc Lessee Insight Design, Schofield, fail./properly maintain tires and rims, $168.80.

Charlene R. Connor, Siren, speeding, $186.00; seat belt violation, $10.00.

Russell D. Copeland, Webster, fail./stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Paul D. Cornelison, Webster, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Jeffrey J. Danberry, Wayzata, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Corrine M. Decoteau, Cloquet, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Robert J. Deering, Champlin, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

James L. Demarre, Grantsburg, operating while under influence, license revoked six months and alcohol assessment, $677.00.

Charles A. Dickman, Thorton, Iowa, speeding, $160.80.

William L. Drinkerd, Mendota, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Robert L. Dufour, Cambridge, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Keith J. Dutcher, New Brighton, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Sarah C. Eibert, Rosemount, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Travis D. Erickson, Webster, operating while under influence, license revoked six months and alcohol assessment, $677.00.

Sandra D. Ferguson, Spooner, operating while under influence; operating with PAC .10 or more; possess open intoxicants in MV, not guilty pleas.

Megan L. Finch, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Betty J. Flaherty, Duluth, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

James M. Foley, Coon Rapids, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Jeffery R. Foster, Bethel, Minn., fail. to remove elevated device on state forest property, $186.00.

William T. Franck, Pine City, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Ryan S. Friel, Webster, failure to keep vehicle under control, $198.60; operating while suspended, $186.00.

Drew A. Frye, Hinckley, Minn., seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, $160.80.

Aaron J. Gamboni, Spooner, speeding, $160.80.

Jennifer M. Gardas, Rice Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Chad R. Gatten, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Danielle M. George, Hayward, violation of child safety restraint requirements, child 4 years, but less than 8 years, twice, $135.60 twice.

Karen L. Gervais, Northfield, Minn., operating left of centerline, $198.60.

Daryl D. Glover, Webster, OAR, failure to keep vehicle under control, not guilty pleas.

Ralph L. Goerdt, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Sally V. Goossen, Somerset, speeding, not guilty plea.

Monty J. Grinager, Northfield, Minn., illegally construct, use or fail./remove or attach name/address or DNR No. to unattend. tree stand, $186.00.

Jason E. Hackett, Chippewa Falls, operating while under influence, operating left of centerline, not guilty pleas.

Laura E. Hakanson, Superior, speeding, $162.80.

Kathryn A. Hallgren, Centuria, speeding, $186.00.

Kimberly S. Hamann, Cushing, seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, not guilty plea.

Brian A. Handy, Grantsburg, park veh. in unauth. area, not guilty plea.

Laura J. Hansen, Webster, seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, $160.80.

Matthew J. Hansen, Grantsburg, speeding, $211.20.

Yvonne M. Harrington, Danbury, speeding, not guilty plea.

Daniel L. Harvey, Glendale, Ariz., speeding, not guilty plea.

Carl O. Heinrich, Rush City, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Mark T. Hinnenthal, Plymouth, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Dennis E. Hocevar, Bethel, Minn., fail. to remove elevated device on state forest property, $186.00.

Samuel R. Hope, Webster, fail./stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Kenneth G. Hopkins, Siren, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Reid J. Hopkins, Danbury, fail./stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Hopkins Sand and Gravel, Webster, vehicle equipment violations, group 1, $231.80; violate class A Hwy. weight limits, $461.56.

Tommy R. Jewell, Siren, seat belt violation; speeding; passing in no-passing zone, not guilty pleas.

Brenda L. Johnson, Danbury, operating while under influence, license revoked eight months and alcohol assessment, $803.00; operating left of centerline, $198.60.

Travis C. Jones, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Craig E. Jorgenson, Luck, speeding, not guilty plea.

James A. Kanouse, Leroy, Mich., speeding, $188.00.

Ryan E. Keith, Siren, speeding, not guilty plea.

Katy L. Keller, Webster, underage drinking, possess, 1720, not guilty plea.

Michael J. Kier, Grantsburg, operating with PAC .10 or more, license revoked six months and alcohol assessment, $677.00.

Mark N. Kloster, Webster, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Don D. Kopecky, Siren, burning without a permit, intensive area, $160.80.

Mark E. Krapfl, Danbury, speeding, $186.00.

Timothy S. Kuehnow, Solon Springs, speeding, $160.80.

Steven W. Labatt, Cushing, speeding, not guilty plea.

Grant E. Lamont, Hayward, illegal disposal, $186.00.

Deanne E. Lange, Grantsburg, dog causing injury, not guilty plea.

Amanda G. Larson, Siren, nonregistration of auto, etc., $160.80.

Treeza B. Leasure, Spooner, speeding, $160.80.

Ryan C. Lemon, Grantsburg, drink open intoxicants in MV, $186.00; underage drinking, possess, 17-20, license suspended six months and alcohol assessment, $375.00.

Linda Lightfeather, Webster, operating while revoked, not guilty plea.

Derek L. Lindemann, Webster, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Shaun M. Lindus, Grantsburg, illegally construct, use or fail./remove or attach. name/address or DNR No. to unattended tree stand; violation of child safety restraint requirements, child 4 years, but less than 8 years of age; nonregistration of auto, etc.; operate w/o valid license, not guilty pleas.

Stacie L. Louis, St. Croix Falls, operating with under influence, license revoked six months, alcohol assessment, $677.00.

Johnathan L. Lowry, Siren, underage drinking, possess, 1720, $249.00.

Kody J. Luke, Grantsburg, operating motor vehicle by probationary license w/unauthorized person in vehicle, $186.00.

Michael M. Madsen, Danbury, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Myron L. Mansfield, Webster, seat belt violation,

$10.00.

Jennifer J. Marsolke, Eagan, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Sue E. Matheson, Stone Lake, speeding, $160.00.

April R. Matrious, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Tonya A Mattinas, Cloquet, Minn., operating while under influence, license revoked seven months and alcohol assessment, $740.00.

Paul S. Maurice, Hinckley, Minn., OAR, not guilty plea.

Bruce A. Maxon, Amery, discharge firearm from/across highway, $203.40.

McCarrons Building Center, Forest Lake, violate Class A hwy. weight limits, $908.42.

Laura J. McCaul, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Travis C. McDowell, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Christopher M. McLain, Louis, Mo., operating while suspended, $186.00.

Wayne S. Meier, Butternut, speeding, $160.80.

Jason W. Melton, Altha, Fla., place/transport uncased firearm/vehicle, $203.40.

Luke T. Mendik, Cumberland, speeding, $160.80.

Christina M. Merrill, Siren, OAR, not guilty plea.

Zachary J. Meyer, Grantsburg, speeding, $186.00; nonregistration of auto, etc., $160.80.

Kenneth R. Miller, Hudson, speeding, $160.80.

William J. Miller, Anchorage, Alaska, speeding, $160.80.

Allan J. Mosay, Webster, underage drinking, possess, 1720, not guilty plea.

Renee L. Mosay, Rice Lake, operating while suspended, $186.00; violation of child safety restraint requirements, child under 4 yrs of age, $160.80.

Michael J. Moser, S. St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Daniel W. Mudge, Remer, Minn., fail./stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Daniel P. Murphy, Ramsey, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Donald J. Nadeau, White Bear Lake, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Gregory W. Nelson, Coon Rapids, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Nicole M. Nord, Grantsburg, speeding, not guilty plea.

Jennifer L. Nordstrand Forsgren, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Mary B. Pabst, Hinckley, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Nathan Pardun, Danbury, underage drinking, possess, 1720, not guilty plea.

Mary E. Patrick, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Michael M. Patterson, Grantsburg, disorderly conduct with motor vehicle, $185.00.

Thomas P. Pesik, Stanley, speeding, $186.00.

Ross W. Petersen, Luck, fail. to stop/improper stop at stop sign, not guilty plea.

Timothy M. Peterson, Excelsior, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

John P. Polski, Danbury, operating while revoked, not guilty plea.

Walter E. Power, Golden Valley, Minn., operating while under influence; operating with PAC .10 or more; speeding, not guilty pleas.

Kathleen C. Preissing, Grantsburg, inattentive driving,

not guilty plea.

Mitchell R. Purdy, Eden Prairie, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Jennifer G. Raygor, Clayton, fail./stop for unloading school bus, not guilty plea.

Sean T. Reynolds, Webster, underage drinking, possess, 1720, not guilty plea.

Violet S. Reynolds, Siren, theft, movies not returned, $1,227.

Darryl E. Richter, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Marlon P. Rodrigues, Superior, speeding, $186.00.

Jordan M. Rogers, Webster, underage drinking, possess, 1720 twice, license suspended 1 year and 6 months, $501.00 and $375.00.

Sadie E. Rogers, Siren, operating while suspended, $186.00.

Robert M. Rombach, Grantsburg, speeding, not guilty plea.

Kara K. Root, St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Shonda M. Russell, Frederic, speeding, $160.80.

Lorri A. Saari, Ironwood, Mich., fail./stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Craig D. Sandness, Eden Prairie, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Brian P. Schneider, Chippewa Falls, speeding, $160.80.

Kimberly A. Schultz, Stillwater, Minn., speeding, $160.00.

Andrew R. Schulz, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Lester W. Shaddrick, Winter, speeding, $160.80.

David A. Shea, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Dianne K. Shea, Coon Rapids, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Linda J. Slayton, St. Croix Falls, seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, $160.80.

Scott E. Spencer, Frederic, speeding, $186.00.

Brian R. Spitzmueller, Lino Lakes, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Joseph M. Stathus, Madison, speeding, not guilty plea.

Eric J. Stephenson, Maple Grove, Minn., speeding, not guilty plea.

Benjamin R. Stewart, Siren, speeding, not guilty plea.

Jared C. Stewart, Siren, fail. to stop/improper stop at stop sign, $160.80.

Mark E. Stewart, Wyoming, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Aaron M. Stroot, Webster underage drinking, possess, 1720, license suspended six months and alcohol assessment, $375.00.

Lindsey D. Studerman, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Catherine S. Sturtze, Spooner, operating left of centerline, $198.60.

Nance A. Sutherland, Grantsburg, disorderly conduct with motor vehicle, not guilty plea.

Blane D. Swanson, Webster, speeding, $186.00.

Tara L. Swanson, Centuria, speeding, not guilty plea.

Doyle G. Swift, Grantsburg, speeding, not guilty plea.

Carmen L. Taylor, Webster, possess open intoxicants in MV, $186.00.

Ryan J. Tollander, Siren, speeding, $186.00.

Trung C. Tran, Inver Grove Heights, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Rachael A. Trittelwitz, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Michael D. Ubbelohde, Spooner, speeding, $160.80.

John W. Vanheel, Cold Spring, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Long P. Vo, N. St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Tuan P. Vo, Centerville, Minn., speeding, $211.20.

Dennis B. Wagner, W. St. Paul, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Wade K. Wasvick, Osceola, speeding; operating while under influence; operating left of centerline, not guilty pleas.

Leslie A. Webb, Ramsey, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Karl C. Weber, Danbury, speeding, $160.80.

Virginia C. Weiner, Minnetonka, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Lynn M. Weiss, Clayton, operating while under influence; operating with PAC .08 or more; OAR, not guilty pleas.

Jason B. Weller, Hayward, speeding, $211.20.

Scott R. Wermter, Popular, speeding, $186.00.

Suzane R. Whitaker, Hinckley, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Rachel C. Wiita, Cumberland, speeding, $186.00.

Gary K. Witzel, White Bear Lake, speeding, $161.00.

Matthew A. Wolf, Hudson, speeding, $186.00.

James D. Wolford, Golden Valley, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Wps Inc., Rice Lake, transportation/raw forest products, $421.74.

Alexandra L. Zimmerman, Shakopee, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Jill M. Zoschke, Andover, Minn., speeding, $236.40.

Webster municipal court Steven J. Derrick, New Richmond, speeding, $83.80.

Hazel L. Falk, Danbury, unsafe or improper turn; OWI; obstructing/resisting arrest, not guilty pleas.

Amy J. French, Danbury, seat belt violation, $96.40.

Eugene A. Johnson, Webster, failure to stop at stop sign, $83.80.

Marlene G. Koster, Minnetonka, Minn., speeding, $134.20.

Justin J. Monzel, Muskego, speeding, $83.80.

Sara Nefs, Webster, unlawfully trespass, $361.00.

Thomas J. Polski, Danbury, unlawfully trespass, $361.00.

Ronald L. Ritchie, Webster, unlawfully trespass, $361.00.

Bemosaakwe, Shell Lake, OAS, warrant issued.

Erye J. DeMarre, Cumberland, disturbing the peace, warrant issued.

Thomas J. Polski, Danbury, criminal damage to property, DOC, warrants issued.

Aaron Stroot, Webster, underage drinking, underage smoking, DOC, warrants issued.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

Burnett County criminal court

Siren police report Streitz was taken to Burnett County Jail on a hold for a warrant out of Washburn County.

Dec. 15: A vehicle was found off the road in a swamp almost up to the Gandy Dancer Trail by Yah Butz on Hwy. 35/70 at 12:30 p.m. No one was in or near the vehicle, a white Ford Explorer with Wisconsin plates.

Later in the day, the vehicle was reported as having been stolen.

Dec. 16: David R. Hubbell, 19, Siren, was cited for failing to stop at the stop sign on Main Street and Ellis Avenue at 9:26 p.m.

Dec. 17: The Siren officer was sent to assist Burnett County with a domestic in Webster. The officer was there until a deputy arrived. A male subject was taken to Burnett

County Jail as a result of the incident.

Dec. 19: John R. Bailey, 54, Spooner, was cited for speeding on Hwy. 70 and Ellis Avenue at 10:01 p.m.

Dec. 20: Tyler J. Starks, 21, Webster, was cited for operating while intoxicated, operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration of .10 percent or higher and operating to the left of the centerline during a traffic stop on Hwy. 35/70 and North Shore Drive at 2:35 a.m.

Dec. 21: Samuel Woods, 35, Frederic, was cited for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated during a stop on Hwy. 35 at Clear Lake Street at 1:50 a.m.

Burnett County civil court Voyager Village Inc., vs.

Bonnie L. Lamont, Webb Lake, $811.14.

Capital One Bank vs.

Munshi Hussain, Grantsburg, $1,362.75.

Acuity vs. Shawn R. Spafford, Grantsburg, $632.85.

Voyager Village Inc., vs.

James A. Gustafson, North St.

Paul, Minn., $972.14.

Voyager Village Inc. vs.

Jackie J. Olson, McGregor, Minn., $943.14.

Dorothy E. Lancor vs.

Roseann Chavez, Springbrook, $3,087.00.

Capital One Bank vs.

Cynthia S. Heilman, Spooner, $1,554.16.

Burnett Co. sheriff’s department Accidents Nov. 30: Westleigh S. Poole, 17, Baldwin, was southbound on East County Line Road in Blaine Township when he lost control while negotiating a curve. The vehicle left the roadway and struck a power pole. There were no injuries reported. Reportedly a front tire blew, causing the accident.

Dec. 16: Rachel J. Meyer, 21, Frederic, was eastbound on Hwy. 48 in Trade Lake Township when she lost control and entered the ditch. No injuries were reported. The driver was issued one citation for failure to keep vehicle under control.

Arrests or citations Dec. 18: Jamie J. Johnson, 35, Webster, was arrested for domestic battery and domestic disorderly conduct.

Other incidents Dec. 12: Lonnie L. Vix, Danbury, reported a license plate taken from a Dodge van.

The plates were entered as stolen by the Burnett County Sheriff’s Department. The incident is under investigation.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT Frederic & Siren Shirley

715-327-8322

405361 6Ltfc 48atfc

Atlantic Credit and Finance Inc., vs. Anthony J. Potempa, Siren, $3,163.46 Capital One Bank vs. Jackie M. Talbot, Danbury, $763.73.

Webb Lake Land and Cattle LLC vs. Dan Ellefson, Danbury, $5,087.00.

TOWN OF MCKINLEY PUBLIC NOTICE The regular monthly Board meeting for the Town of McKinley will be held Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009, 7 p.m. at the Town Hall. Agenda will be posted.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to electors, in the Town of McKinley, that immediately following the regular meeting, a Caucus for the purpose of nominations shall be held for the offices of Town Chairperson, two (2) Supervisors and Treasurer.

Deborah Grover, Clerk 475512 18-19L WNAXLP

HELP WANTED Unity Area Ambulance Service Is Taking Applications For EMT Basic And EMT IV Tech We are a paid-on-call volunteer service.

Frederic, WI

1-BR Upstairs Apt.

380 per month plus deposit

$

Available December 1 Call 715-327-4471, 715-472-8792 or 715-566-2139 For 12Ltfc 472749 Appointment 2atfc

FOR RENT 1-BR Apt. Downtown Centuria

375 per month

Available Jan. 1, 2009

Water, sewer & garbage incl.

No pets.

Background check First month’s rent and damage deposit.

612-280-7581

474717 6-7a,d,w 17-18L

$

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

SECOND-FLOOR, 1-BR APT. IN FREDERIC Available Sept. 1. $

435/month

Call for special. Garage included. SECURED BLDG. No pets. No smoking.

464488 50Ltfc 40atfc www.fredericapartments.com

Call Carol at 715-472-8670

or 715-554-0009

NURSING: RNs & LPNs

Full-time hours available on varied shifts.

Scale for experience in place with benefits.

Please contact Chris LeCuyer, Director of Nursing.

Frederic Nursing & Rehab 205 United Way Frederic, WI 54837

Phone 715-327-4297 • Fax 715-327-4950 www.atriumlivingcenters.com

475485 18L

PUBLIC NOTICE

On Tuesday, December 16, 2008, the Polk County Board of Supervisors did grant the following district change: TOWN OF ALDEN: All remaining Exclusive Agricultural (A-2) parcels to Agricultural (A-1).

Property affected is: Part of SE1/4 of Section 16 & all of Sections 21, 28 & 33 - all in town 32 north, range 18 west.

475270 18L WNAXLP Polk County Land Information Committee.

Part-Time Positions Are Available At The

COMFORTS OF HOME Frederic PART-TIME ACTIVITY PERSON PART-TIME CAREGIVERS Please Apply Within:

105 Oak Street E., Frederic, WI

475499 18-19L 8-9a

Westside Apartments

Webster, OWI, $740.00, license revoked seven months, alcohol assessment.

Christopher J. Rizzo, 32, Spooner, issue worthless check, $50.00 restitution, $225.00.

Jackie L. Pardun, 36, Danbury, operate without valid license, $186.00.

Coleman B. Ford, 33, Siren, OWI, $967.00, license revoked 14 months, 10-day jail sentence, Huber privileges granted, alcohol assessment.

Brandon C. Grabow, 26, Siren, OWI, $967.00, 10-day jail sentence, Huber privileges granted, license revoked 14 months, alcohol assessment.

Burnett County warrants Ronee L. Boswell, 32, Hayward, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 15.

Wade G. Dahlberg, 21, St. Paul, Minn., warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

James E. Lightfeather, 30, Lewis, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

Jamie M. Magnuson, no date of birth given, Frederic, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 16.

Dorothy M. Matrious, 40, Danbury, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

Call Linette Erickson at 715-825-4444 for more 475121 information and an application.

17-18L

FOR RENT

Scott M. Donner, 48, Durham, N.C., speeding, $190.80.

Hugh O. Duffy, 43, Hayward, speeding, $160.80.

Jennifer A. Stein, 32, St. Louis Park, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Brian K. Rasmussen, 43, Shoreview, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Thomas K. Nelson, 62, Cameron, speeding, $160.80.

Jason P. Lussier Jr., 18, Bemidji, Minn., speeding, $186.00; operate without carrying a license, $160.80.

Jason J. Brust, 21, Grantsburg, speeding, $160.80.

Pamela R. Blahoski, 45,

Joseph E. Roberts, 27, Minong, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

Margaret L Scanlon, 35, Spooner, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

(Dec. 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS, INC. Plaintiff, vs.

RELAN K. GROVE, et al.

Defendants.

Case Number: 08 CV 1 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on February 25, 2008, in the amount of $206,842.05, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: February 4, 2009, at 10:00 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 1 OF CERTIFIED SURVEY MAP #4662 RECORDED IN VOLUME 20 OF CERTIFIED SURVEY MAPS, PAGE 214, AS DOCUMENT #689837, BEING A PART OF N 1/2 OF THE NE 1/4 OF THE SE 1/4 OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 34 NORTH, RANGE 16 WEST, TOWN OF APPLE RIVER, POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1345 60th Street, Turtle Lake, WI 54889.

TAX KEY NO.: 0004-006860100.

Dated this 11th day of December, 2008. /s/Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County Deborah A. Blommer State Bar #1000749 Attorney for Plaintiff 13700 W. Greenfield Avenue Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Bloomer Peterman, S.C. is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained with be used for that purpose. (136161)

475008 WNAXLP

Dec. 13: A gas drive-off for $35 was reported at Holiday Station at 6 p.m. The vehicle’s owner was identified as Daniel Thompson, Baraboo.

Dec. 14: An accident in the parking lot at the Holiday Station at 5:20 p.m. involved vehicles driven by Roxanne Songetay, 52, Danbury, and Kevin J. Meeds, 27, Siren. According to the report, Songetay’s truck was backing out of a parking space as Meeds’ sedan was pulling in behind. Mild to moderate damage was done to the headlight area on the front passenger side along the bumper and quarter panel of the Meed’s vehicle.

At 11:46 p.m., Mark A. Streitz, 46, Spooner, was cited for operating after revocation on Hwy. 35 and Main Street.

Chell Well Drilling, Frederic, violation of class A weight limits, $500.00.

Ashley A. Kurtz, 22, Grantsburg, improper parking of vehicle, $135.00.

Berry E. Heyer, 45, Webster, operate ATV on roadway, $186.00.

Hazel L. Falk, 86, Danbury, deviating from lane of traffic, $160.80.

William H. Cook, 61, Shell Lake, speeding, $160.80.

Reid C. Sellgren, 42, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $186.00.

Joseph R. Erickson, 40, St. Cloud, Minn., speeding, $160.80.

Glen P. Taylor, 32, Grantsburg, warrant – failure to appear, Dec. 17.

(Dec. 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY LASALLE BANK, National Association, as Trustee for WaMu 2007-OA6 Plaintiff Vs. BRADLEY GEORGE SCHEUER, et al.

Defendants Case No. 08 CV 288 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on July 7, 2008, in the amount of $269,072.81, the Polk County Sheriff will sell the premises described below at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: February 5, 2009, at 10 a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens, encumbrances, and applicable real estate transfer taxes, upon confirmation of sale.

PLACE: In the foyer of the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 West Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: The South 264 feet of the East 907.5 feet of the Southeast quarter (SE 1/4) of the Southeast quarter (SE 1/ 4) all located in Section 13, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, Polk County, Wis. ADDRESS: 1809 150th Ave., St. Croix Falls, Wis. 54024.

TAX KEY NO: 044-00314-0200.

Dated this 17th day of Dec., 2008.

Timothy G. Moore, Polk County Sheriff Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Mark R. Cummisford, State Bar #1034906 6508 South 27th Street, Suite #6 Oak Creek, WI 53154 Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

475359 WNAXLP

REQUEST FOR PRICES

The Burnett County Highway Department will receive sealed prices until 8 a.m., Monday, December 29, 2008, on the following items: SINGLE-AXLE TRUCK CHASSIS TANDEM-AXLE TRUCK CHASSIS Please mark on the outside of your envelope: SINGLE-AXLE TRUCK OR TANDEM TRUCK. Complete specifications can be obtained from Steve Washkuhn, Shop Foreman, Burnett County Highway Department, 8150 Highway 70, Siren, WI 54872.

Telephone number: 715-349-5345 (ext. 1457).

The Burnett County Highway Committee reserves the right to reject any or all of the prices or to accept the price they deem most advantageous to Burnett County and to waive any irregularities in the proposal 474803 17-18L process.

By order of the Burnett County Highway Committee.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

473993 4-7a,d 15-18L

(Dec. 17, 24, 31) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Janice M. Palmersheim Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 08 PR 91 An application has been filed for informal administration of the estate of the decedent, whose date of birth was March 25, 1953, and date of death was Nov. 29, 2008. The decedent died domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a post office address of: 3294 County Road W, Frederic, WI 54837. All interested persons have waived notice.

Creditors’ claims must be filed with the probate registrar on or before March 25, 2009.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar December 15, 2009 James Palmersheim Personal Representative/Atty.

704 6th Ave. W. Shakopee, MN 55379 475149 952-445-6355 WNAXLP (Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, acting through Rural Housing Service (RHS), successor in interest to the Farmers Home Administration, Plaintiff, vs.

ADRIAN E. DAVIS, LISA M. DAVIS, and WEST CENTRAL WISCONSIN COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY, INC. Defendants.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 08 CV 599 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the above action on October 22, 2008, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell at public auction in the Sheriff’s Department lobby of the Polk County Justice Center, in the City of Balsam Lake, State of Wisconsin, on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at 10 a.m., the following described premises: Part of Lot 16, Section Addition to the Village of Frederic, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as Lot 1 of the Certified Survey Map No. 2945, filed in Volume 13, Page 199 as Document No. 593016 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Polk County, Wisconsin.

TERMS: Cash; subject to all unpaid property taxes, special assessments, penalties and interest. Buyer to pay transfer fee and costs of sheriff’s sale.

DOWN PAYMENT: 10% of amount bid by certified check.

BALANCE DUE: Within ten (10) days of confirmation of sale.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 304 2nd Avenue South, Frederic, WI 54837.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on December 8, 2008.

Timothy G. Moore Polk County Sheriff Kenneth Wm. Jost Jost Law Office P.O. Box 54 Chetek, WI 54728

LONNIE ALLAN HANSON and ANETTE N. HANSON, husband and wife; and JANE DOE and/or JOHN DOE, unknown tenants, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-554 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on November 20, 2008, in the amount of $208,204.83 the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 20, 2009, 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: LOT 4, PLAT OF ROLLING HILLS, TOWNSHIP OF GARFIELD, POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN. EXCEPT A PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 4; THENCE NORTH 00° 40’ 13” WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 4, 14.95 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89° 59’ 51” EAST, 241.98 FEET TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 4; THENCE SOUTH 00° 40’ 13” EAST, ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 4, 16.15 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 4; THENCE NORTH 89° 43’ 06” WEST, ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID LOT 4, 242.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 4 AND THE POINT OF BEGINNING. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 1898 98TH AVENUE, Town of Garfield.

TAX KEY NO.: 024-013000400 Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, WI O’DESS AND ASSOCIATES, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 1414 Underwood Avenue Suite 403 Wauwatosa, WI 53213 (414) 727-1591 O’Dess and Associates, S.C., is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

If you have previously received a Chapter 7 Discharge in Bankruptcy, this correspondence should not be construed as an attempt to collect a debt.

Karen S. Delaney, Centuria, and Steven D. Schramski, St. Croix Falls, issued Dec. 17, 2008.

Joann M. Gray, Sterling, and Joel C. Gray, Sterling, issued

Dec. 17, 2008.

Jennifer K. Rinker, Apple River, and Brian P. Christopherson, Amery, issued Dec. 18, 2008.

(Dec. 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, National Association Plaintiff Vs. PATRICIA BECK EDWARD G. BECK Defendants Case No. 08 CV 385 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on November 12, 2008, in the amount of $131,426.16, the Polk County Sheriff will sell the premises described below at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: February 5, 2009, at 10 a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens, encumbrances, and applicable real estate transfer taxes, upon confirmation of sale.

PLACE: In the foyer of the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: That part of the Southwest 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4, Section 21, Township 33 North, Range 16 West, described as follows: Beginning at the Northeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4, Section 21, Township 33 North, Range 16 West, extending South on the East line of said Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4 of said Section 21 a distance of 5-1/2 rods, thence West on a line parallel with the North boundary line of said Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4 of Section 21 to the public highway now running across the West part of said Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4 of Section 21, thence North on said highway to the North boundary line of said Southwest 1/4 of Southeast 1/4, Section 21, thence East on said boundary line to the place of beginning. Said land being in the Town of Lincoln, County of Polk and State of Wisconsin.

ADDRESS: 956 Wisconsin Lane, Amery, Wis. 54001.

TAX KEY NO: 032-00601-0000.

Dated this 18th day of Nov., 2008.

Timothy G. Moore, Polk County Sheriff Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC Attorney for Plaintiff Mark R. Cummisford, State Bar #1034906 6508 South 27th Street, Suite #6 Oak Creek, WI 53154 Cummisford, Acevedo & Associates, LLC is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

(Dec. 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY COUNTRYWIDE HOME LOANS, INC. Plaintiff, vs.

JANE KEARNS, et al.

Defendants.

Case Number: 08 CV 188 AMENDED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on June 30, 2008, in the amount of $205,399.15, the sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 20, 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 1, Certified Survey Map No. 1847, recorded in Volume 8, of Certified Survey Maps, Page 195, as Document No. 529806, being a part of the Northeast 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4 of Section 28, Township 33 North, Range 16 West, in the Town of Lincoln, Polk County, Wisconsin, reserving the Easterly 33 feet of said Lot 1 for driveway easement, together with an easement for driveway purposes over and across the North 1 rod of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 27, Township 33 North, Range 16 West. ALSO DESCRIBED AS: All that certain parcel of land situated in the County of Polk and State of Wisconsin, being known as Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 1847 as recorded in the Register of Deeds Office in Volume 8 Page 195 of said maps, in the Polk County, Wisconsin, Courthouse, reserving the Easterly 33 feet of said lot 1 for driveway easement purposes for heirs and assigns.

Together with an easement for driveway purposes over and across the North 1 rod of the North 1/2 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 27, Township 33, Range 16 West.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 799 85th Street, Amery WI 54001 TAX KEY NO.: 032-007670100 Dated this 12th day of December, 2008. /s/ Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County Deborah A. Blommer State Bar #1000749 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. (136770) 475029 WNAXLP

(Dec. 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14, 21) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY C.U. Mortgage Services, Inc. 500 Main Street, Suite 100 New Brighton, MN 55112, Plaintiff, vs.

Andrew E. Buss and Melissa J. Buss 500 Wisconsin Avenue Frederic, WI 54837 and, J. DOE I-V and XY2 Company IV, Defendants.

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Case No. 08CV86 Honorable: Robert W. Rasmussen Foreclosure of Mortgage 30404 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure made in the above-entitled action on May 27, 2008, in the amount of $98,813.88, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: Tuesday, February 3, 2009, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: Pursuant to said judgment, 10% of the successful bid must be paid to the sheriff at the sale in cash, cashier’s check or certified funds, payable to the clerk of courts (personal checks cannot and will not be accepted). The balance of the successful bid must be paid to the clerk of courts in cash, cashier’s check or certified funds no later than ten days after the court’s confirmation of the sale or else the 10% down payment is forfeited to the plaintiff.

The property is sold “as is” and subject to all liens and encumbrances.

PLACE: Foyer Area, Polk County Justice Center, 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin 54810.

DESCRIPTION: Lot 7, Block 2, Park Addition to the Village of Frederic, excepting therefrom the East 150 feet thereof, Polk County, Wisconsin. Said plat being located in the Southwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 27, Township 37, Range 17 west, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 500 Wisconsin Avenue, Frederic, WI 54837, being abstract property.

Peterson Fram & Bergman, P.A. By /e/ Steven H. Bruns Steven H. Bruns Attorneys for Plaintiff 55 E. 5th Street, Suite 800 St. Paul, MN 55101 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.

Meeting Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2008, 7 p.m., Luck Town Hall The meeting is open to the public.

475511 18L WNAXLP Lloyd Nelson, Clerk

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WEBSTER

Community Learning Center Assistant The School District of Webster is currently taking applications for a Community Learning Center Assistant. Position to begin January 2009. Salary is $14 per hour, approximately 8 hours per week.

Job duties include organizing specialized volunteers, scheduling activities and making personal contacts.

Please direct applications to: Jim Erickson, Superintendent.

Applications are available at the Administration Office or 475324 www.webster.k12.wi.us. Deadline is January 9, 2009.

18-19L

WNAXLP

715-857-6181

NOTICE TOWN OF LUCK PLAN COMMISSION

475011

Private Home Care Position - Flexible Hours

Polk County marriages

475358 WNAXLP

RN Or LPN, Ventilator Certified Or Willing To Become Certified

(Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., as Trustee for the Certificate Holders of Soundview Home Loan Trust 2007-OPT4, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2007-OPT4, Plaintiff, vs.

474554 WNAXLP

HELP WANTED

WNAXLP

474744

WNAXLP

(Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY EAGLE MORTGAGE & LOAN LLC, Plaintiff, vs THOMAS L. SANFORD, MUDGE PORTER LUNDEEN & SEGUIN, BRILL STATE BANK, Defendants.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 07 CV 507 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above action on September 27, 2007, the undersigned Sheriff of POLK County, Wisconsin, will sell at public auction at the main entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 W. Main Street, in the City of Balsam Lake, State of Wisconsin on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at 10 a.m., the following described premises: Lot 3 of Certified Survey Map No. 5180, recorded in Volume 23 CSM, Page 87, Document No. 717574 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Polk County, Wisconsin, being located in the Southeast 1/4 of the Southeast 1/4, Section 9, Township 37 North, Range 16 West, Town of Clam Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

TERMS: Cash, subject to all unpaid property taxes, special assessments, penalties and interest. Buyer to pay transfer fee and costs of sheriff’s sale.

DOWN PAYMENT: 10% of amount bid by certified check BALANCE DUE: Within ten (10) days of confirmation of sale PROPERTY ADDRESS: 921 340th Ave., Frederic, WI 54837 Dated Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on December 8, 2008.

Timothy G. Moore Polk County Sheriff Kenneth Wm. Jost Jost Law Office P.O. Box 54, Chetek, WI 54728

Notices / Employment

474675

474735 WNAXLP

(Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, vs.

MICHAEL J. ANDREN and SHANNON M. ANDREN, husband and wife, and COUNTRY HOME LOANS, Defendants.

Case No. 08 CV 290 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 22, 2008, 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 27, 2009, at 10 o’clock a.m., all of the following described mortgaged premises, to-wit: The East 124 feet of the West 621.5 feet of the South 214.5 feet of the SW 1/4 of SW 1/4, Section 27, Township 35 North, Range 16 West, Town of Georgetown, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 026-01164-0000 Street Address: 889 190th Avenue, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin TERMS OF SALE: Cash.

DOWN PAYMENT: 10% of amount bid by cash or certified check.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 2nd day of December, 2008.

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

BUSINESS MANAGER FOR THE DANBURY SANITARY DISTRICT POSITION

Approximately 20-30 hours per week. Duties include set up and maintain utility accounts and customer records, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, collections, delinquent and shut-off notices and financial reports. Knowledge of Quickbooks software is helpful. Please mail resume and cover letter to:

Marshall Hill, Chairman P.O. Box 8 Danbury, WI 54830

474978 6-7a 17-18L

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

473092

JOB POSTING

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN/DIRECTOR FULL-TIME POSITION with BENEFITS SALARY NEGOTIABLE with EXPERIENCE Qualifications: Knowledge of: Windows and Apple client and server operating systems; network and endpoint security; current communications devices and protocols; Server and desktop technologies; and backup scheduling and testing.

Ability to: Administrate a medium-sized network including firewalls and switches; support networked printers and photocopiers; manage multiple projects, activities and tasks simultaneously; and supervise technical support personnel. Postsecondary Degree in Computer Technology and three (3) years of experience preferred.

Closing Date: January 6, 2009.

Send Letter Of Application And Resume To:

Glenn Martin, District Administrator School District of St. Croix Falls 740 Maple Drive St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-9823 (ext. 200)

BURNETT & POLK COUNTY

Burnett & Polk County is declaring December 31, 2008, as the last day that wildlife crop damage assessments can be requested for the 2008 crop year under Wisconsin’s Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program. This date is based on the counties policy for crop damage claim payments on late harvested crops.

The policy states: All wildlife damage claims on row crops filed after 90% of the County’s harvest for that crop has been completed, will be denied. Anyone seeking additional program information may contact Cindy at the Tri-County Wildlife Damage Program office at 715-349-2186.

475158 17-18L

Northwest Counseling and Guidance Clinic, a leading provider of mental health services in Wisconsin, is currently seeking someone who has experience working on patient accounts in a medical setting. We are looking for an energetic, self-motivated individual with excellent problem-solving skills. Must be detail oriented. This individual will be working in all aspects of the business office from insurance benefit checks to payment posting and account follow-up.

Requirements include: work experience in the medical or mental health industry, knowledge of health care systems, insurance billing protocols, insurance networks/processes, and ability to interpret EOBs. Knowledge of HIPAA, documentation, and contracting helpful.

If you are looking to work in a challenging field and a fun environment, please mail or e-mail your resume and a cover letter. Salary dependent upon experience. Competitive benefits. NWCGC is an EOE. Send resumes to:

NWCGC ATTN: Ginny W.

203 United Way Drive Frederic, WI 54837

475020 17-18L

e-mail: ginny@nwpass.com NWCGC is an E.O.E.

WNAXLP

(Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF JANUARY 1, 2006, GSAMP TRUST 2006-HE1, Plaintiff, vs.

DAVID A. PACE; and HELEN M. PACE, his wife, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-277 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (Foreclosure of Mortgage30404) By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of said Circuit Court in the above-entitled action which was entered on July 28, 2008, in the amount of $170,325.58, I shall expose for sale and sell at public auction in the Foyer of the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on the 29th day of January, 2009, at 10:00 a.m., the following described premises or so much thereof as may be sufficient as to raise the amount due to the plaintiff for principal, interest and costs, together with the disbursements of sale and solicitors’ fees, to-wit: The North Half of the West Fractional Half of the Northwest Quarter, Section 7, Township 35 North, Range 17 West, Town of Milltown, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Beginning at the Northwest corner of said section; thence running South 79 rods; thence East 54 rods and 10 feet; thence North 79 rods; thence West 54 rods and 10 feet to the point of beginning. Tax Key No. 04000179-0000.

TERMS OF SALE: 10% DOWN - CASH, MONEY ORDER OR CERTIFIED CHECK. BALANCE DUE WITHIN TEN DAYS OF CONFIRMATION OF SALE. THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD AS IS AND SUBJECT TO ALL LIENS AND ENCUMBRANCES. /s/TIMOTHY G. MOORE, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Hersh Law Offices, LLC 10555 N. Port Washington Road Mequon, WI 53092 (262) 241-9339 State Bar No. 1016890 Velnetske The above property is located at 2290 180th Street, Luck, Wisconsin.

Hersh Law Offices, LLC, is a law firm representing a creditor in the collection of a debt owed to such creditor, and any such information obtained will be used for that purpose.

474553

WNAXLP

474552

(Dec. 24, 31, Jan. 7) WI004508 STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC, an Illinois Limited Liability Company Plaintiff, vs.

CHAD A. TALMADGE 718 E. MARYLAND STREET APT. 15 ST. CROIX FALLS, WI 54024 Defendant(s).

PUBLICATION SUMMONS Case No. 08 CV 683 Case Code: 30301 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN, to the said defendant(s) : You are hereby notified that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit against you. The Complaint, which is attached hereto, stated the nature and basis of the legal action.

Within forty (40) days of 12/24/ 2008, you must respond with a written answer, as that term is used in Chapter 802 of 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: P.O. Box 549, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810-0549 and the Legal Department of Resurgence Financial, LLC, whose address is 6980 N. Port Washington Rd., Suite 204, Milwaukee, WI 53217 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer to the Complaint or provide a written demand for said Complaint within forty (40) days, the Court may grant a judgment against you for the award 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 22, 2008.

RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC

By One of Plaintiff’s Staff Attorneys Robert L. Kaplan; State Bar No. 1005652 RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC Legal Department 6980 N. Port Washington Rd. Suite 204 Milwaukee, WI 53217 877-694-7500

475496 WNAXLP

(Dec. 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY WACHOVIA MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, vs.

REBECCA D. SCHAAR and JOHN DOE, unknown spouse of Rebecca D. Schaar, and JOHN DOE and/or JANE DOE, unknown tenants, and MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS INC., and POLK COUNTY, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-382 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater than $5,000 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on August 5, 2008, in the amount of $66,303.41, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: February 10, 2009 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 & 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 North 100 feet of the East 1/2 of Lot "W", Block 16, First Addition to Village of Frederic, Polk County, Wisconsin PROPERTY ADDRESS: 409 Lake Avenue N, Village of Frederic.

TAX KEY NO.: 126-231-0 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.

(Dec. 24, 31, Jan. 7) WI006335 STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC, an Illinois Limited Liability Company Plaintiff, vs.

MICHAEL A. CURTIS 986 140TH AVE. AMERY, WI 54001-2743 Defendant(s).

PUBLICATION SUMMONS Case No. 08 CV 682 Case Code: 30301 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN, to the said defendant(s) : You are hereby notified that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit against you. The Complaint, which is attached hereto, stated the nature and basis of the legal action.

Within forty (40) days of 12/24/ 2008, you must respond with a written answer, as that term is used in Chapter 802 of 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: P.O. Box 549, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810-0549 and the Legal Department of Resurgence Financial, LLC, whose address is 6980 N. Port Washington Rd., Suite 204, Milwaukee, WI 53217. You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer to the Complaint or provide a written demand for said Complaint within forty (40) days, the Court may grant a judgment against you for the award 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 22, 2008 RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC

By One of Plaintiff’s Staff Attorneys Robert L. Kaplan State Bar No. 1005652 RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC Legal Department 6980 N. Port Washington Rd. Suite 204 Milwaukee, WI 53217 877-694-7500

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(Nov. 19, 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE IN TRUST FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES, INC., ASSET BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-R7, Plaintiff, vs.

LISA A. HOUX; and PAUL M. HOUX, her spouse, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-224 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (Foreclosure of mortgage 30404) By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of said Circuit Court in the above-entitled action which was entered on July 11, 2008, in the amount of $124,867.89, I shall expose for sale and sell at public auction in the Foyer of the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on the 13th day of January, 2009, at 10 a.m., the following described premises or so much thereof as may be sufficient as to raise the amount due to the plaintiff for principal, interest and costs, together with the disbursements of sale and solicitors’ fees, to-wit: Lot 2 Certified Survey Map No. 2043 recorded in Volume 9 Certified Survey Maps, Page 191, Document No. 543428, located in the Northwest Quarter of the Southeast Quarter, Section 7, Township 33 North, Range 15 West, Town of Clayton, Polk County, Wisconsin.

Tax Key No. 016-00148-0200 TERMS OF SALE: 10% DOWN - CASH, MONEY ORDER OR CERTIFIED CHECK. BALANCE DUE WITHIN TEN DAYS OF CONFIRMATION OF SALE. THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD AS IS AND SUBJECT TO ALL LIENS AND ENCUMBRANCES. /s/TIMOTHY G. MOORE, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Hersh Law Offices, LLC 10555 N. Port Washington Road Mequon, WI 53092 262-241-9339 State Bar No. 1016890 Velnetske The above property is located at 530 105th Avenue, Amery, Wisconsin.

Hersh Law offices, LLC, is a law firm representing a creditor in the collection of a debt owed to such creditor, and any such information obtained will be used for that purpose.

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Bruce E. Green, 63, died Nov. 5, 2008, Osceola Barbara L. Chaplinski, 82, Dec. 10, 2008, St. Croix Falls

WNAXLP

Matthew A. Baumann, 27, died Nov. 30, 2008, Alexandria, Minn.

Richard P. Klimek, 38, Nov. 30, 2008, Lowry, Minn.

Notices / Employment

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Polk County deaths

(Dec. 10, 17, 24, 31, Jan. 7, 14) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE IN TRUST FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES, INC., ASSET BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2003AR3, Plaintiff, vs.

LYNN A. PETERSON, a single person; JOHN M. ANDREWSON; and MICHELLE L. ANDREWSON, his wife, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-403 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE (Foreclosure of Mortgage30404) By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of said Circuit Court in the above-entitled action which was entered on August 1, 2008, in the amount of $95,262.58, I shall expose for sale and sell at public auction in the Foyer of the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on the 3rd day of February, 2009, at 10:00 a.m., the following described premises or so much thereof as may be sufficient as to raise the amount due to the plaintiff for principal, interest and costs, together with the disbursements of sale and solicitors’ fees, towit: Lot 27 and the South 1/2 of Lot 26, Block 52, First Addition to the City of St. Croix Falls, according to the recorded plat thereof on file and of record in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Polk County, Wisconsin. Tax Key No. 281-00074-0000.

TERMS OF SALE: 10% DOWN - CASH, MONEY ORDER OR CERTIFIED CHECK. BALANCE DUE WITHIN TEN DAYS OF CONFIRMATION OF SALE. THIS PROPERTY IS BEING SOLD AS IS AND SUBJECT TO ALL LIENS AND ENCUMBRANCES. /s/TIMOTHY G. MOORE, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Hersh Law Offices, LLC 10555 N. Port Washington Road Mequon, WI 53092 (262) 241-9339 State Bar No. 1016890 Velnetske The above property is located at 408 N. Washington, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin.

Hersh Law Offices, LLC, is a law firm representing a creditor in the collection of a debt owed to such creditor, and any such information obtained will be used for that purpose.

COACHING POSITIONS AVAILABLE SIREN SCHOOL DISTRICT High School Head Football Coach Send letter of application and resume to:

Siren School District Attn: Ryan Karsten, Athletic Director P.O. Box 29 Siren, WI 54872

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MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

If you are mechanically inclined and can fix most anything this may be the job for you. Plastech Corporation is looking for a person for long-term employment. We are a state-of-the-art injection molding company in business over 50 years. We run 3 shifts, 7 days per week, 24 hours per day with excellent working conditions. We have designed a unique scheduling system to give our employees 3 days off after every 6 days on and rotating from A to B shift. Our starting wage is $15 per hour or more depending on experience and we offer excellent benefits including: Employee group health insurance, retirement plan, 401(K) and paid personal days off. Apply in person at our Rush City office located at 920 Field Avenue South between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Heather Olson

PLASTECH CORPORATION Rush City, Minnesota We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

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PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

TOWN OF SIREN SIREN SANITARY DISTRICT MEETING TOWN OF SIREN BOARD MEETING

TOWN OF SIREN NOTICE OF TOWN CAUCUS

The Siren Sanitary District will hold a meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2009, at 6:30 p.m., at the Siren Town Hall.

Immediately following the Sanitary District Meeting and the Town of Siren Caucus Meeting, the Town of Siren will hold a Board Meeting at approximately 7:30 p.m. If you wish to be on the agenda, please call Mary Hunter, Clerk, at 715-349-5119.

475217 18-19L Mary Hunter, Clerk

READY FOR A NURSING CHALLENGE AT A TOP MEDICAL CENTER?

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the electors of the Town of Siren, in the County of Burnett, State of Wisconsin, that a Town Caucus for said town will be held at the town hall in the said town on January 8, 2009, at 7 p.m., to nominate candidates for the different town offices to be voted for at the Town Election to be held on April 7, 2009.

Mary Hunter 475216 18-19L WNAXLP Siren Town Clerk

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

VACANCIES FOR CRITICAL NURSING POSITIONS

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Surgical Services Manager - Full time. Must have 2 years’ experience in operating room. Prefer management experience.

Shift Supervisor - .7 FTE. Day/evening shifts (most evening).

Must have 2 years’ acute care experience. Able to work independently. Prefer prior supervisory experience.

Clinic/Triage RN - .8 FTE clinic position for RN with clinic experience able to triage phone calls. Flexible to rotate to direct patient care. Learn new skills. Other nursing positions also available.

Apply Directly To SCRMC: Online: www.scrmc.org Fax: 715-483-0508 Mail: 235 State Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-0565 An Equal Opportunity Employer

NUTRITION SITE MANAGER/COOK WEBSTER NUTRITION SITE Part Time

Burnett County is currently seeking applications for a position as parttime Site Manager/Cook at the Webster Nutrition Site which is located in the Webster Community Center.

A valid driver’s license and dependable vehicle for use on the job is required. Previous quantity food preparation experience is desirable.

Certification in “Food Safety & Sanitation” within 12 months of employment. Some computer experience helpful. The position is approximately 6 hours per day, Monday thru Friday.

Starting Salary: $10.96/hour plus prorated fringe benefits.

For further information and application material contact the Burnett County Administration/Human Resources Office, Burnett County Government Center - Room #190, 7410 County Road K, #116, Siren, WI 54872 (http://www.burnettcounty.com or mthalacker@burnettcounty.org Phone: 715-349-2181, Fax: 715-349-2180). Applications accepted until 475468 18-19L 4:30 P.M., Friday, January 9, 2009.

BURNETT COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Notices / Employment TOWN OF EUREKA F o l l o w t h e Leader.

CAUCUS NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Caucus for the Town of Eureka will be held on Thursday, January 8, 2009, 7 p.m., Eureka Town Hall, to place in nomination candidates for town chairman, town supervisors, town clerk and town treasurer to be voted on at the spring election on Tues., April 7, 2009.

The regular monthly board meeting will follow the caucus.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR NEW TEAM MEMBERS

CMA/LPN: Casual positions available in clinic setting.

(Prior casuals were hired to benefit positions.) Able to multitask, have strong computer skills and excellent customer service skills. Have appropriate certification or licensure.

Phlebotomist: Casual position in clinic lab; varied days/ shifts. Can be Medical Assistant or Nursing Assistant with phlebotomy training or certification as Phlebotomist.

Apply Directly To SCRMC: Online: www.scrmc.org Fax: 715-483-0508 Mail: 235 State Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-0286 An Equal Opportunity Employer

CALL TO ORDER Mayor Darrell Anderson called a regular meeting of the City of St. Croix Falls Common Council to order on Monday, November 17, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. Roll call: Councilpersons Debra Kravig, Paul Kuhlmann, Brian Blesi and Arnie Carlson were present. Also present: Administrator Ed Emerson, Clerk Bonita Leggitt, Treasurer Gail Bibeau, Librarian Sarah Adams, Police Chief Jack Rydeen, Fire Chief Wade Sommer, the public and the press. All joined in the salute to the flag.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES Arnie Carlson moved to approve the Minutes of the October 27, 2008, Regular Council Meeting and Budget Hearing, seconded by Brian Blesi, voice vote, motion passed.

REPORTS OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS Fire Chief Wade Sommer presented the October Fire Dept.

Report. Annual Meeting will be January 17, 2008. Fire Dept. would like to cease charging for residential calls/runs, Insurance Co. no longer paying charges.

Police Chief Jack Rydeen presented the October Police Report. Have received complaints about “blind spot” at intersection of State and Adams St. due to new parking spots along north side of State St., one option would be to eliminate one spot and designate other three as car only, no trucks or SUVs. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Paul Kuhlmann: bid for replacing roof on new Library is $195,000, work will start this week. Project manager was not determined by Library Board, but by City, so who is paying $12,500 cost?

Arnie Carlson: Tourism Committee reviewed Statutes on Room Tax and are working on 3 year plan.

APPROVAL OF CLAIMS General Fund $75,558.23, Debt Service $469,752.27, Library Fund $28.00, Library Building Fund $66,703.82, Water Fund $3,092.38, Sewer Fund $8,796.74.

Paul Kuhlmann moved to approve claims, seconded by Brian Blesi, roll call vote, 4 ayes, motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS Public Hearing for 2009 Budget Brian Blesi moved to open the Budget Hearing, seconded by Arnie Carlson, voice vote motion passed.

Brian Blesi moved to close the Budget Hearing, seconded by Arnie Carlson, voice vote, motion passed.

Consider Approval of 2009 Budget and Set Levy The City had less than 1% growth in 2008, employees will receive 2% pay increase; and we have switched health insurance to save money. A tax levy of $874,000 would be $1,000 higher than last year and results in a 0.11% levy increase.

Council discussed impact on future budgets of not utilizing the 2% increase allowed.

Brian Blesi moved to approve the 2009 Budget and set the Levy at $874,000, seconded by Arnie Carlson, roll call vote, 4 ayes, motion passed.

Consider Approval of 2008, Payable 2009, BID Assessment The Business Improvement District Board has approved their BID Assessment for 2008 payable in 2009 in the amount of $9,754.49 and submitted same to the City Council for approval.

Arnie Carlson moved to approve the 2008 Business Improvement District Assessment, seconded by Brian Blesi, voice vote, motion passed.

Consider Operators Permits Brian Blesi moved to approve Operators Permits for Crystal Holland, Dennis Christner, Thomas Morarchik, Chasidy Bushweiler, Christine Sellman, and Cindy Carufel, seconded by Debra Kravig, voice vote, motion passed.

Consider Class B Beer and Class C Wine Licenses for Grecco’s on the St. Croix, Restaurant Paul Kuhlmann moved to approve a Class B Beer and Class C Wine License for Roman Anthony Restaurant Group LLC,

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CITY OF ST. CROIX FALLS - MINUTES OF THE REGULAR COMMON COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 17, 2008, 7:00 P.M. CITY HALL, 710 HWY. 35 SOUTH Grecco’s on the St. Croix, seconded by Debra Kravig, voice vote, motion passed.

Presentation of Chamber of Commerce Annual Report Terri Schaffer, President of the SCF Chamber of Commerce and Shelly Staeven, Chamber Director: Our Chamber will be joining forces with Taylors Falls Chamber of Commerce in 2009.

Proposed events for 2009 include Taste of the Valley, Motorsports Madness, Art Tour, Autumn Fest and Holly Days.

50th Anniversary of Wannigan Days cost $17,000, City and Hospital each contributed $5,000, Chamber is still paying on remaining balance. We need to know if City can contribute to Wannigan Days, band cost $,5500, advertising cost $1,000 per ad, Chamber shouldn’t get stuck with majority of costs, Wannigan Days is a community event, shouldn’t be a Chamber event, Chamber is supposed to support businesses. Council requested financial report and list of expenditures for Wannigan Days.

Consider Final Pay Request for Pember Co. for Louisiana St. Project Brian Blesi moved to approve the final payment of $115,806.93 to Pember Co. for the Louisiana St. project, seconded by Arnie Carlson, roll call vote, 4 ayes, motion passed.

Consider Award of Bid for Pipe Lining of Louisiana St. Storm Sewer The City received a bid for lining the Louisiana St. storm sewer pipe from Viet & Co for $43,961.00.

Brian Blesi moved to award the bid to Viet & Co. for $43,961.00 contingent upon getting warranty on materials and workmanship, seconded by Arnie Carlson, roll call vote, 4 ayes, motion passed.

Consider Park & Recreation Committee Appointments Brian Blesi moved to confirm the appointments of Tom & Lisa Mangelson to the Park & Rec Committee, seconded by Paul Kuhlmann, voice vote, motion passed.

Consider Resolution Naming Wert Family Nature Preserve Land Management Group Brian Blesi moved to adopt Resolution #08-22, Adopting the Action Plan for the Wert Preserve and Naming the Wert Preserve Land Management Group, seconded by Arnie Carlson, voice vote, passed.

Consider Quote for Updating City Utility Base Maps Cedar Corp. has submitted a Task Order to update the City’s Utility Base Maps for $7,200. It was suggested that an engineering student may be interested in updating the maps as a summer project, or could be bid out for engineering firms utilizing interns.

Brian Blesi moved to table updating of utility base maps pending research of other alternatives, seconded by Paul Kuhlmann, voice vote, motion passed.

Discuss Fluoride in City Water Fluoridation of public water started in the 1960s as a way to fight tooth decay, some 60% of public water sources are fluoridated. Today fluoride is found in many products, including toothpaste. Research points out that excess fluoride may affect health and recommends that infant formula be made with nonfluoridated water. Many cities are stopping the use of fluoride.

Fluoride is available in drops and tablets for those who need it.

Most fluoride in public water goes down the drain.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Warren White has a Change Order for Public Plaza that removes unneeded items, will bring to next meeting as an agenda item.

Arnie Carlson: new path lights in Public Plaza are too bright, could different type of bulb reduce glare, or install colored lenses, once area is planted lighting may not seem so bright.

ADJOURNMENT Arnie Carlson moved to adjourn, seconded by Paul Kuhlmann, voice vote, motion passed. 10:23 pm.

Darrell Anderson, Mayor Bonita Leggitt, City Clerk 475417 18L

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Aging and Disabilities Resource Director Polk County, WI

Polk and Burnett counties, in conjunction with the St. Croix Tribal Council, as a three-member consortium, is seeking an individual to oversee the development, administration, and operation of programs and services offered by the consortium’s newly established Aging and Disability Resource Center. This individual will serve as the Aging and Disability Resource Director with oversight of staff in two locations serving clientele of all three consortium districts.

Requirements include a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Gerontology, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Public Administration, or related human service field with five (5) years’ experience in human service programs, preferably in aging and/or adult disabilities, with an increasing amount of administrative and supervisory responsibilities, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A compassion for clientele in this field and strong organizational and leadership skills are a must.

For complete job description, salary information, and application visit http://www.co.polk.wi.us or call 715-485475491 18L 8a-e 9270. Deadline to apply: January 14, 2009.

NOTICE OF HEARING

The Polk County Land Information Committee will hold public hearings on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at 8 a.m. in the Government Center (2nd Floor, West Conference Room), Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. The committee will recess at 8:30 a.m. to view sites and will reconvene at 1 p.m. at the Government Center in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, to consider the following and other agenda items: JIM KUCHENMEISTER requests a Special Exception from Article 15B3 of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to excavate over 2,000 sq. ft. on slopes of 0 - 12 percent.

Property affected is: 1444 20th Ave. W 10 acres of the SW1/4, NE1/4, and the W 10 acres of the NW1/4, SE1/4, Sec. 27/T32N/ R17W, Town of Alden, South Fish Lake.

STACIA (KOTILINEK) BANK requests a Special Exception from Article 8D1(a) of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to operate a tourist rooming house. Property affected is: 2306 213rd Ave., Lot 1, Plat of Rollingwood Shores, Sec. 31/T36N/R18W, Town of Laketown, Round Lake.

EBULLIENT INVESTMENTS, LLC requests a Special Exception from Article 8D1(a) of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to operate a tourist rooming house.

Property affected is: 1895 Peer Ave., Pt. of Gov’t. Lot 5, Desc.

V471/350, (AKA Lot 5, unrecorded survey PD #237), 105’, Sec. 25/T34N/R18W, Town of St. Croix Falls, Deer Lake.

DAVID & ROXANE BARNES request a Special Exception from Article 8D1(a) of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to operate a tourist rooming house. Property affected is: 2071 10th Ave., Pt. of Gov’t. Lot 3+4, Pt. of SW1/4, SW1/4 & Pt. of NW1/4, SW1/4, AKA unrecorded Lot 12, Sec. 27/T32N/R18W, Town of Alden.

475179 18-19L 8a,d WNAXLP LISA THOSTENSON requests a Special Exception from Article 8D1(a) of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to operate a tourist rooming house. Property affected is: 1400 191st Ave., Lot 1, CSM #1787, Vol. 8/Pg. 135, a redivision of Lot 1, CSM Vol. 2/Pg. 57 & Outlot 3 V2/Pg. 74, all located in Gov’t. Lot 4, Sec. 26/T35N/R17W, Town of Milltown, Balsam Lake.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Falun cookie walk Cookie buyers rushed in to get their favorites at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Falun cookie walk last Saturday. The annual event is such a popular holiday tradition a crowd of over 30 people was waiting at the doors by 8:45 a.m. for the 9 a.m. opening. It paid to arrive early, as by 9:45 a.m. all the cookies were gone.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Happy H a p p y Holidays Holidays

Trinity Lutheran Church of Falun members Alice Erickson, Darla Carlson, Raylene Swanson and Annette Hanson stood next to the many varieties of cookies ready to greet the many cookie buyers coming to the church’s annual Christmas cookie walk last Saturday.

Cheryl Smith, Grantsburg and friend Sheila Block of Minong reach for cookies at the Trinity Lutheran Church of Falun’s annual cookie walk held on Dec.13.

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PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Survival Santa

Frederic students presented a holiday concert Dec. 6 with the musical “Survival Santa,” presented by the fourthand fifth-grade.

Above, Accountant Elf, Emily Amundson, presents a check for $1 million, made out to Santa Claus. At right, hosts Julia Buck and Kinzie Matz take the spotlight. At left are members of the fourth-grade choir. The musical was directed by teacher Pat Anderson. - Photos by Becky Amundson

Unity world history students learn about military experiences Sgt. Van Burch, Michael Milligan and Master Sgt. Jim Milligan were presenters who shared their military experience.

BALSAM LAKE - Master Sgt. Jim Milligan and Sgt. Van Burch came to Unity High School on Tuesday, Dec. 16, to share their military experiences with all of the juniors in world history.

Milligan has served two tours in Afganistan and Burch has served in Iraq. Milligan’s son Michael also presented; he will be leaving for Iraq in early 2009. Jim Milligan and Burch both shared powerful video clips and slideshows of pictures taken in Afghanistan and Iraq. They also brought items for the class to see; for example, military gear, food and preserved spiders. - submitted Master Sgt. Jim Milligan answered student questions.

Unity junior Christian Brown, trying on a military pack. — Photos submitted

Warmest wishes for a safe & joyous holiday season.

Students Jared Mork, Sam Hill and Luke Hilleshiem looking at some of the artifacts.

St. Croix Valley Funeral Home & Polk County Cremation Society 2012 U.S. Hwy. 8, St. Croix Falls, Wis.

715-483-JANE (5263)

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From Jane Austin & Family

Currents N

‘Follow the Leader’

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 1

O R T H E R N

News and views from the NW Wisconsin community

Proud Falun grandma eagerly awaits Inaugural Parade

by Priscilla Bauer FALUN – Hazel Oman has seen her share of Presidential Inaugurals in her 87 years with some holding more of an interest for her than others.

“Eisenhower’s inauguration was probably the most important one we watched since he served in the war and my husband George had served overseas, too.”

But the coverage of this year’s inaugural celebration is one Oman will definitely be watching closely.

While seeing Barack Obama sworn in as the first African American president is a historic event many will not want to miss, Oman will also be tuning in to see some other people making history at this year’s inaugural. Her own grandchildren.

Oman’s grandchildren, Karl and Leah Anderson will be marching in the Inaugural Parade as members of the Siloam Springs, Ark., high school band, the Marching Panthers.

Oman’s grandson, Karl, is a freshman at Siloam Springs High School who plays the French horn and the mellaphone during the marching season. Leah is a sophomore at SSHS and plays the flute and piccolo. Both have been in the band program since they were in 6th grade.

“I’ve never been on a band trip before and I’ve never been to Washington, D.C., but knowing Mr. Rutledge, it should be a great experience,” said Karl. “I’m really excited!” Having just heard about the invitation a couple of weeks ago, the excitement is still fresh.

Leah is just as excited as her brother at the prospect of performing for the new president.

“When Mr. Rutledge announced that we were going to D.C., I couldn’t believe it, but then I got really, really excited – I can’t wait.”

Karl and Leah’s mother, Kris Anderson, said when she attended an informational meeting for parents to make plans for the D.C. trip, one of the parents stood up and thanked the school’s band director Keith Rutledge.

Hazel Oman of Falun will be watching on TV as her grandchildren, Karl and Leah, mark in Inaugural Parade, Jan. 20, following the swearing in of Barack Obama. - Special photos “An instantaneous applause went on for some time. The parents (and community) are really excited about this opportunity for our kids. It is a chance of a lifetime and an experience they will never forget,” said Anderson. “Siloam is a small city of about 14,000 and is just a ‘Mayberry’ kind of place to live.”

Bands chosen for the Inaugural Parade are responsible for paying for their own lodging and transportation to and from Washington, D.C. The Inaugural Committee works with area governments and civic organizations to find affordable accommodations for participants and has also appealed to citizens to “reach out and help these organizations raise the necessary resources to participate in this historic event.”

“The Siloam Springs band program has a great parent band booster team

Karl and Leah (left) and the Siloam Spring Marching Panthers during a Christmas parade in their hometown.

which has helped to make these kinds of trips possible. It is a highly respected band program in the north region of Arkansas and has always had a great showing at the marching contests they participate in during the fall marching season,” said Mrs. Anderson.

A press release issued by the Presiden-

tial Inaugural Committee explained that the selection process is aided by a group of experienced military musicians, who utilized their expertise to help assess the presentation skills of marching bands, musical acts and drill teams.

There are only 60 or 70 slots for bands wishing to perform in the Inaugural Parade and this year a record number of over 1,300 applications were received so the invitation to perform is quite an honor for the band, the Siloam Springs community and for the state of Arkansas.

“The selection of the Siloam Springs High School Band to march in the Presidential Inaugural Parade is a tremendous honor for all of us associated with the band, “ said Rutledge. “ Our students are extremely excited about the trip and as their director, I have never been a part of anything of this magnitude in my 30 years of teaching band. The outpouring of support from the citizens of Siloam Springs as well as from around the state had been awesome.”

And back in Falun, Hazel Oman is also feeling honor and pride in her grandchildren’s part of history in the making.

“I know my grandmother will be watching for us,” said Karl Anderson.

“We will be thinking of her, too,” added Leah.

Editor’s note: Kris (Oman) Anderson worked with the Polk-Burnett Youth Ministry for several years.

The Siloam Springs, Ark., high school band, the Marching Panthers, have been putting in extra practice time lately, as they prepare to march in the Inaugural Parade, Jan. 20.

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PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Nelson Primary School Christmas program

Cynthia Pigeon and William Coppenbarger and their Little Pirate classmates listened for the sounds of the season as the students recited “Do You Hear the Christmas Bells?” for family and friends during the Nelson Primary Christmas Program on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Nelson Primary students were ready with their reindeer ears as they performed the “Reindeer Pokey” to the delight of family and friends attending the school’s annual Christmas program on Dec. 16. – Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Little Pirates Keevan Jones and Mason Arnold looked for reindeer as they performed the “Reindeer Pokey” at the Dec. 16 Nelson School program.

N e l s o n kindergarteners Aidan Burkman, Meysa Roberts, and Isabelle Nelson helped classmates sing “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” for the audience attending the school’s Christmas program on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

Nelson School Little Pirate and kindergarten students sang “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” and blew kisses to their audience at the end of their Christmas program.

Cookies for the Troops

Johanna Alling and Julia Larsen, Girl Jenelle Larsen, Unity Girl Scout, assisted one of the Scout Ambassadors, have coordinated the annual Unity Girl Scout Cookie Bake little helpers in making some of the cookies for the for the past four years. The past two troops through the Cookie Brigade in the annual Girl years they have also gotten the Unity FFA Scout cookie bake event. involved by helping to bake cookies for the troops through the Cookie Brigade.

Photos by Jeanne Alling This year, 222 dozen cookies were made to be sent.

Cookies for the Troops for Christmas was once again a cooperative activity between the Unity FFA and Unity Girl Scouts. A total of 222 dozen cookies were baked after school to send to the troops through the Cookie Brigade, which is coordinated by Susan Hager. Pictured seated (L to R) Hager, helper and Kylie. Standing: Stephanie Lobert, Dianne Hamilton, Adam Rouleau, Johanna Alling, Brittany Kruse, Jenelle Larsen, Julia Larsen and Naomi Williamson.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

The lady, the lutefisk and the microwave

While bending over so carefully Her back now nearly breaking in two, She crawled under the table and sat there, Picking up lutefisk from where it flew.

Writer’s Corner

by Dorothy Behringer She was a meticulous housekeeper Everything always spotless and clean, I'm sure if you ever wanted to I could eat from her floor that gleams.

One day, just after Thanksgiving, Having cleaned up the mess that was made, When hunger had captured its victim For the fish in the fridge, she did raid.

With the lutefisk now in the micro She admired her newly cleaned floor, What a job it had been to clean everything Were her thoughts as she opened the microwave door.

She reached for the dish without thinking That she put in there to get hot, As she lifted it out, the pain came She dropped it right there on the spot.

She picked it up from the floor then Where such nice pieces of white meat fell, "What a shame she thought, it should be thrown" So she sat there and ate it so well.

Over her clean floor it all spattered Her lutefisk was all over the room, Though tired she was, again she must clean It wouldn't even gather up with her broom.

When all of a sudden it struck her As she sat by herself, she did roar, That she, a grown woman, was eating lutefisk Under the table, at night, off the floor.

When she thought she had it all picked up Her eyes scanned around the room, There under the table she spied it Lutefisk she had missed with her broom.

Northwest Regional Writers

PoCo Penners

The Northwest Regional Writers meet at 1 p.m. the second Friday of the month either in Frederic or Grantsburg. Call Mary Jacobson at 715-3492761 for more information about the organization.

The PoCo Penners meet the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. at the county boardroom in the government center in Balsam Lake. Contact Brenda Mayer at 715-485-3571 or Iris Holm 715294-3174 for more information. - submitted

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 new feature, please contact us at the-leader@centurytel.net or call 715-327-4236. - Editor

Christmas for Kids is over. A hugely (is that a word?) successful year. Some complaints, but for the most part every child should have a nice Christmas. It is unfortunate we can’t provide everything every child or child’s mother wants. It just isn’t possible. I am truly sorry the boy who wanted a snowmobile isn’t going to have one under the tree. The little girl who asked for a computer will have to do with some wonderful books. I love doing the Christmas for Kids project, but I surely do wish more parents had the real reason for Christmas in their hearts. Children learn where they live (that is a quote but I don’t remember where or who from). The parents put a focus on gifts and the children will learn that Christmas is all about gifts and not know any other thing about it. I don’t like to include my feelings about religion in my column, but I do like to offer a perspective.

Years ago, kids didn’t get so many gifts, but got to go to church and sing the songs they knew by heart and look at the “manger” and see the baby Jesus and feel the reason for Christmas. I use to really love the lights.

All of the candles and Christmas lights. I used to have an awful time staying awake until midnight Mass and then I usually fell asleep halfway through, waking just in time to hear “Joy to the World” and knowing it was time to go home. We used to look

through the Sears Wish Book and wish for everything we saw and knowing there would be one special gift and maybe a game like CandyLand (has that game really been around that long?)

There were always oranges, Blodgett nuts and theapples, most wonderful Christmas candy in our stockings.

Remember the ribbon candy and the candy with the little flowers in the middle? Sort of the thing we call cloisonne today only in candy. My favorites were the raspberry-shaped candies with the gooey stuff inside. And of course, candy canes that we sucked on until our lips puckered and our fingers were sticky and we usually set it down where it was found stuck to something days later. I will never forget the time Uncle Tom Doar stood up and a candy cane was stuck to the seat of his pants.

He was a very tall man with beautiful grey wavy hair...lots of it. A small sticky candy cane stuck to his bottom was not something we children could mention for fear of being blamed, besides that we did not talk about our

Barb

Caregiver's

Gifts

elder’s bottoms. Finally mother noticed it. Aunt May, my godmother and Uncle Tom’s wife got the biggest laugh of all. I just got a knowing look from my father and what I might refer to as a “glare” from my mother. A damp cloth only made matters worse so for dinner he sat on a newspaper that came up with him when he got up from the table. You can bet I will never forget that Christmas “Giving” is what Christmas is all about for Interfaith Caregivers. I love to give and I don’t like to get. Getting a gift embarrasses me but giving a gift means the world to me and fills my heart with all kinds of wonderful feelings. I had an argument with a store owner once. He wanted to give me something “at cost.” I told him Interfaith wanted to pay full price and did he want to make me feel guilty for not paying what everyone else did. He said, did I want to make him feel good or me feel guilt. I ended up making him feel good and getting the item at cost. Even today I still feel I owe him, but at least he feels good.

I have to apologize for my last column. I cannot write in the middle of the night because my mind goes in too many directions at the same time and usually none of them really ends up meaning anything. If anyone got anything out of that column I applaud you because I was writing as I was thinking and I was thinking of everything....Here

I go again.

Now back to my thoughts about Christmas. I think the thing that is going around is “pay forward”. You do something nice for someone and they do something nice for someone and on and on it goes. I would love to think that everyone who received gifts from Interfaith and all of our wonderful benefactors, will pay forward to someone else. I know that won’t really happen, but I live in sort of a fantasy world and want everything to be perfect. So I pray for peace, good health for all and that Santa not forget one single child. I also pray that parents teach their children what Christmas is really all about.

We have many people to thank for donating to Christmas for Kids, but that will be another column. Now I just thank God for everyone’s generosity so children who would not have had a gift will at least have something.

One more thought. Many of us lost a dear friend this week. Faye Russ was one of the most sincere ladies I have ever known. She fought hard through many illnesses and one finally took her life. Say a prayer for Faye’s family.

May she rest in peace and have no more pain.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and God Bless, Until next time.

Barb

Danbury Fire and Rescue donates to holiday drive The Danbury Fire and Rescue donated $6,000 to the Webster School and Community Holiday Drive. Part of the funds raised were from the Hunters Dinner in November held at the Danbury Town Hall and other funds were from private donors. The Holiday Drive at the school ran from Dec. 1 to 18, and then items were distributed to local families of the Webster School District on Dec. 22.

Shown is George Costello of DFR presenting a check to the Webster High School Student Council. Shown (L to R), back row: Donnie Holmes, Olivia Kopecky, Ashley Robinson, Sarah Walsh, Rachel Larson, Annie Kelby, Kathy Eckstrom, Renee Ones and George Costello.

Front: Kendra Avery, Taylor Heinz, Ciara Koenen, Ellie Isaacson, Kyle Godfrey and Sarah Nyberg. – Special photo

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Early road building in Trade Lake

Collected by

by Stanley Selin

Automobiles appeared in the first decade of the 1900s and gradually increased in numbers, becoming quite common after the end of World War I. Many people objected to the the newfangled cars because they scared horses, and in some cases caused runaways, resulting in injuries and even death. In many areas, a ruling existed that if a driver saw a team of horses approaching, he was required to pull his car over to the side of the road and stop. The existing roads at this time were basically just unimproved paths used by horsedrawn buggies and wagons, sometimes using the same route as the old Native American trails. Following the path of least resistance, they wound around and between natural obstacles. They were adequate for slow-moving travel, but the new autos demanded straighter and smoother surfaces to utilize their faster speed. Fifteen or 20 mph was probably the top speed over the bumpy primitive roads, but that was considerably faster than horses. Subsoil mixtures in Trade Lake were mostly clay and sand. Early roadbeds were made by grading and smoothing out the existing subsoils, after removing the topsoil. Top-dressing a road surface with gravel, for example, would have been quite impractical in these early times, especially in rural areas, because a system for transporting large quantities of bulk material did not exist. All the heavy work was done using horses.

Road-building machinery did exist, but was heavy, cumbersome and expensive, and generally not available in the rural countryside.

A great deal of clay subsoil existed in

Russ Hanson

River Road

Ramblings

After heavy rains, especially in the springtime, dirt roads could become treacherous for the newfangled automobiles. – from Selin collection.

Trade Lake and often made road building difficult and labor intensive. Sandy soil was much easier to work and provided good drainage during rainy weather, but in heavy rains it tended to wash out, making gullies. Clay soil became very sticky and slippery when wet. It needed a steeper cross slope with a higher crown in the middle of the roadbed to provide good drainage to prevent the formation of water puddles. The best roadbeds at this time consisted of a mixture of sand and clay.

Sand was added to the surface. Using a horse-drawn road plow, the road was plowed to a depth of 4 to 5 inches and then harrowed with horse teams in order to pulverize the clay into the sand as much as possible. Then it was covered with a layer of sand. After a rain, the road surface was dragged over using a split log drag if no steel drag was available. This evened it out, as well as promoting faster drying and hardening of the surface.

Building a Trade Lake township road past the Malker Lindblad farm in 1913. Horses needed to be rested periodically when performing heavy work.

– from Selin collection.

STOP DREAMING - START FLYING!

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Burnett Community Library

Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Closed Sunday Main Street

Webster

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Private Pilot Ground School Starts March 24, 2009.

L.O. Simenstad Airport, Osceola, Wis.

Four teams of horses were used to prepare this roadbed. First, the topsoil was removed with a dirt scraper. Then the subsoil was mixed up with a harrow and smoothed out using a road drag. Some of the crew are identified, beginning at the left: Arnold Selin, Fred Akerlind (roadboss), Andrew Peterson, Delphin Fosberg, Chas Anderson and Philip Hake. – from Selin collection.

SIREN DENTAL CLINIC

For Pilots-Starting Tuesday, January 6, at 6:30 p.m. $155 + materials. 9 weeks, 1 night/week For information & to register call Woody 715-557-0395

www.OsceolaAero.com

Another old timer resting in a muddy sinkhole. – Photo from Russ Hanson collection.

Sheldon A. Olesen, DDS • Timothy W. Johnson, DDS 24164 State Road 35, Siren, Wis., 715-349-2297

Instrument Rating Ground School

Sometimes, owners of early automobiles experienced a lot of misery after heavy rains, as roads occasionally developed soft spots and sinkholes, especially in the springtime. The only real solution to this predicament was to walk to the nearest farmhouse and ask to be pulled out of the hole with a team of horses.

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DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Do you remember ?

Residents of care centers Do you wonder what to give residents of care or rehab centers, Comforts of Home or assisted living facilities? The answer is surprisingly simple.

It’s time! Yet I’ve heard my friends say, “I have no time.”

The following first appeared in a Dear Abby column, and is as true today as it was years ago. Abrahamzon Read on – You say that you can’t do anything. Can you read? My eyes aren’t what they used to be.

Can you write? Good! Write a letter or a card for me. My hands are shaky.

Can you sing? Good! Help me with the words, and I’ll sing along.

Can you tell me about your job? I was a nurse once myself. Can you listen? Wonderful. I am starved for conversation.

Can you make a sponge cake or banana bread, or angel biscuits or fudge? They aren’t on the nursing home menu, but I remember how good they were and I would like to taste them again. I suppose you should check with a nurse to see if it is okay.

Do you play Checkers or Rummy or Dominoes?

Fine! So do I. But there is never anyone who has the time. They are understaffed around here, you know.

Do you play the violin or the flute or the piano? My hearing is poor but I can hear any kind of music.

Even if I fall asleep, you’ll know I enjoy it.

Once we were somebodies just like you. We were farmers and farmers’ wives, teachers, nurses, beauticians, stockbrokers, bankers, electricians, sheriffs, and maybe a few outlaws, too. We’re not all senile, just old, needing more attention than our families can give us. This home, whatever it is called, is “home” to us, and you are an invited guest. Please come. The welcome mat is always out, not just on holidays.

I hope you will keep this and read it again in January, February and every other month of the year. We will still be here and our needs will still be the same.

– Author unknown They say as you grow older it’s the days that are long but the years are fast.

Bernice

Behind the Signpost

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago I’m not sure about that as I no longer accomplish al the things I want to do in a single day. I’m doing what I always do but it’s taking me longer.

Our treasures I am at that stage in life where I am trying to give away some of the treasurers of a lifetime. I ask myself, “Who would like this?” and “Would that person cherish it as a good memory?”

Some of us have lamented the fact that our children don’t want our beautiful dishes. I have so many fancy sets meant to go on a sideboard but who has sideboards these days? The silver gravy boat always needs polishing. So does my mother’s silver and all that copper.

And I don’t have enough walls to hang all the framed pictures from my childhood home, let alone all the pictures I have since accumulated.

So I guess if I put my mind to it I could shop in my own home and part with some treasures. They are probably antiques by now. The trouble is that many of my friends are in the same situation, trying to downsize and give now.

Most items have a story. When I’m rolling out piecrust I smile, remembering how I bought my big wooden rolling pin at an auction at Peru, Ind., where we lived. It had bright-red handles, but all the color is worn off now. Ken and I were newlyweds, so he took a lot of kidding when his bride of several months wanted a rolling pin.

That day I also bought a lap coffee grinder, an eight-drawer spice cabinet and a tea set (2 teapots, one for hot water to dilute the tea; on a flowered tray).

What I really wanted was a beautiful bird’s-eye maple bedroom set. I’ve never seen anything like it since that day. Gorgeous!

They say, “You only regret what you don’t buy.”

However, as we get older, we don’t want much.

Our houses are full and our hearts, also.

Merry Christmas to all!

Until next week, Bernice

Edina Realty Foundation awards grants

Carl and Myrtle Wallin of Coast to Coast store in Frederic advertised gift appliances including an electric fry pan for $8.77, an oblong electric griddle for $8.77, a Firestone electric coffeepot for $8.77 and a waffle baker at $8.77.-Dancing classes at Delores’ School of Dancing, Siren, were cancelled during the holidays, and would resume Jan. 3.-Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman were starring in the film “Indiscreet” at the D’Lux Theatre, Luck.-A dance was set for Indian Creek Hall on Saturday, Dec. 20, with music by Jerry Sinz.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included lutefisk at 25¢ lb., turkeys at 35¢ lb., bananas at 25¢ lb, Red Cup coffee at 59¢ lb., and sugar at 10 lbs. for 99¢.-Frederic Auto Co. advertised cars such as a 1955 Plymouth Savoy 2-door at $1,100, a 1953 Packard sedan at $175, a 1957 Ford Tudor Ranch wagon at $1,695 and a 1952 Plymouth Cranbrook sedan at on $275.-Farmer’s Union Co-op, Frederic, advertised chest-type freezers, from a 13 cu. ft. at $219.95 to a 17 cu. ft. at $249.95 to a 21 cu. ft. at $299.95. Upright models were comparable in price except the 20 cu. ft. was $329.95.-A new $20 million bill will favor integrated schools.-Bruce Shattuck caught a 11.1 lb. walleye.

40 Years Ago Peppermint candy ice cream was 99¢ for a half-gallon from Gustafson’s.-The film “The Dirty Dozen” was playing at the D’Lux Theatre.-Specials at the Frederic Co-op Store included Co-op cake mixes at 4 for $1, Gold Medal flour at $1.89 for 25 lbs., pure honey at 99¢ for a 4-lb. jar, and raisins for 59$ for 2 lbs.-Specials at Route’s Super Market included ground beef at 47¢ lb., chicken noodle soup at 15¢ can, tuna at 29¢ can, oranges at 3 dozen for $1 and bacon at 2 lbs. for $1.13.-Olsen & Son Drugs, Frederic, advertised English Leather among other men’s fragrances – Jade East, Pub, That Man, Old Spice and Hai Karate.-Jensen Furniture, Luck, was advertising Colonial Comfort chairs.-Minerva Marina was open all winter including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.-Specials at the Clover Farm Store, Frederic, included kidney beans at 8 cans for $1, coffee at 2 lbs. for $1.29, grapefruit at 6 for 49¢, Polish sausage at 69¢ lb. and spare ribs at 39¢ lb.-Christmas trees were available at Arbor Hill Tree Farms.-Milltown Cooperative Services had a guessing contest where the winner could win Caprina, the frozen pig.-World War I vets met Dec. 14 at the Luck Village Hall.-Patrons heard a good report at the annual meeting of the Frederic Co-op.

20 Years Ago

Agents of the St. Croix Falls Edina Realty office pose with grant awardees in Polk County. Receiving checks for $1,000 each from the realty foundation are (L to R): Lourie Keen of the Butterfly House in St. Croix Falls, Duana Bremer of the Salvation Army/Serenity Home in Balsam Lake, Virginia Ormsby of the Northwoods Homeless Shelter in Luck and Amery and Rosanne Anderson of The Open Cupboard in Osceola. –Photo by Tammi Milberg

ST. CROIX FALLS–The Edina Realty Foundation, supporting homelessness-related causes throughout Minnesota, western Wisconsin and Fargo, N.D., has awarded the following grants to Polk County organizations on Dec. 19 at the St. Croix Falls location: the Salvation Army/Serenity Home, The Open Cupboard, Northwoods Homeless Shelter and the Butterfly House. Each group was awarded $1,000.

A large portion of the money came from the REALTORS® of Edina Realty’s St. Croix Falls sales office as well as Edina Realty itself. Edina Realty agents and employees hold events throughout the year that help raise additional contributions. A nonprofit organization, the Edina Realty Foundation was created in 1996

to support organizations that help homeless children and families in the markets in which Edina Realty does business.

“Our primary business is helping people buy and sell their homes. But there are many people in our community who are not as fortunate,” said Teresa Halstrom, Edina Realty St. Croix Falls office foundation representative. “We believe it’s our responsibility to help people for whom housing is a major issue in their lives, and we are proud to donate both our time and our money to these worthy organizations.”

To date, the foundation has raised more than $5 million. For more information about the foundation visit www.edinarealty.com.

Bob Becker, Spooner, wrote about his Uncle Herb, who was a real character.-Webster High School students would get a weighted grade point average.The coyote season was closed to protect wolves.-A K-6 school was a new option at Frederic.-A land purchase was viewed by the Luck School Board.-Dianna Mangelsen’s picture was on the front page of the Nov. 23 issue of the Inter-County Leader showing her with a 16-point buck she shot on the morning of the opening season. She planned to have the antlers mounted for display in her home at Indian Creek.Eye to Eye focused on Alma Williams who had a talent for restoring antique dolls.-Obituaries included Chester Nelson, Doris Krentz, Evelyn Hanson and Constance E. Nelson.-A high school business careers workshop was held at WITC.-An FHA health forum was held Dec. 2.-Area Tri-State Breeders members planned to meet at Milltown VFW.-Receipts and expenses were up at the Polk County Fair.-The Burnett County Board adopted an $8.4 million budget for 1989.-Deer accounted for nearly a third of road accidents in Burnett County and it ran fifth in Polk County.

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER

Hi, everyone! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. I knew the minute I said things were unusually slow at the shelter that they would get whomped with new arrivals - and they did. Nine new dogs came in last week alone! The majority of them are strays, but there are a couple that were surrendered to the shelter, which is a good thing if a person can’t take proper care of a dog. I was encouraged to see Mr. Green’s letter to the editor last week, bringing attention to his neighborhood’s dogs that are YAPpenings left to languish out in their backyards without proper exercise, shelter or attention.

It’s not just noses, ears and paws that can freeze, you know. One of the dogs that arrived this week was out in the cold too long and had frostbite on his ... his ... well, his “doghood,” if you know what I mean. Ow! That’s gotta hurt something fierce! Just because us dogs have fur, doesn’t mean we are not affected by the cold. Well, most of us at least. Once, I asked a husky who lived outside if he was impervious to the cold. He replied, “No, it just doesn’t affect me.” OK, then ...

Since I have a long list of newcomers to tell you about, I guess I’ll get straight to it. First is Fang. Fang is a male, intact husky (not the same wisenheimer mentioned above), who was found between Lewis and Frederic near the intersection of Hwy. 35 and 130th Avenue. Fang was pulling a black lead with a choke chain and is estimated to be between 4 to 5 years of age. Basically, he is black on top and white on his undercarriage. Next came Samuel. He is a young, male rottweiler who was picked up in the vicinity of CTH X and Leslie Road, between Hertel and Webster. He’s big! Ozzy followed, only he was a surrender, not a stray. Ozzy is a black Lab/St. Bernard mix, about 8 months old, who was given up because he had more energy than his folks could deal with, living in town. He’s also a big boy for his age and needs some room to grow and play. Rodger is an adult beagle who was found near Nexen in Webster.

Blacky Shelter

Rodger is around 7 and is the unfortunate fellow I was referring to with the delicate frostbite situation.

He’s looking a lot better this week, and seems to be feeling some relief as well. Moses and T-Bone were also surrendered to the shelter. They are two 8month-old golden retrievers whose folks could no longer care for them. They are a handsome pair of brothers! Some females showed up at the shelter this week, too. Belle is perhaps a pointer/springer mix of some sort; young - about 4 or 5 months old, and was found in Wood River Township near the intersection of CTH M and Silver Lake Road. She is black and white with short hair, dainty and cute. Beauty and Bliss are two 4-month-old black Lab-mix pups who were found in Oakland Township near CTH U and Prospect Street. I wonder if they thought Santa was still at The Fort and were headed out to sit on his lap?

Lemme see ... one, two, three ... yes! I think I’ve mentioned all nine. I’m glad they’re all safe and sound with us, but I worry about the ones still out there trying to find food and/or stay warm. If you know of any dogs who are lacking basic care or shelter, please let the authorities know about it. That’s no way for a dog to live.

Well, I lucked out. You know why? The set of felt reindeer antlers my mom was going to stick on my head and photograph me in seem to have mysteriously disappeared, so I’ve been spared some ridicule for the season. On a more serious note, I want to remind any of you that have holly or mistletoe hanging around your abode to make sure your dog or cat can’t get his lips around it. Mistletoe and holly berries can bring on a flash flood of diarrhea and vomit, which is no fun for you as the cleaner-upper, and certainly no fun for your pet. And that fruitcake? Don’t rely on your dog to bury it in the backyard, which is what you want him to do with it - right?

I have to go now. I hope all of you have a very happy holiday, and special wishes to everyone who has come to the aid of the shelter’s dogs and cats with their donations of supplies, money or their time. You are all the best! Take care, and I’ll see you here next week.

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org 715-866-4096.

Birth announcements Born at St. Croix Regional Medical Center:

A boy, Aiden Michael Anderson, born Dec. 11, 2008, to Tiffany and Erik Anderson, Dresser. Aiden weighed 8 lbs., 5 oz.

••• A boy, Carson Gerald Strand, born Dec. 12, 2008, to Troy and Trina Strand, Balsam Lake. Carson weighed 8 lbs., 13 oz.

•••

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

Schedule A Massage With Brooke Between Now And New Year’s And Receive An Extra 15 Minutes Free. Would Make An Excellent Christmas Gift!

Gift Certificates Available For Therapeutic Massage And Chiropractic Adjustments.

Give The Gift Of Health!

LAURITSEN CHIROPRACTIC 214 Spruce St., Spooner

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715-635-6969

Happy Holidays from

Frederic Liquor (Skip & John)

5% Discount On Purchases Over $30 Good thru Wed., Dec. 31, 2008.

Closed Christmas Day 209 Wisconsin Ave. N.

715-327-8234

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A boy, Copelan River Grimes, born Dec. 13, 2008, to Josie and Patrick Grimes, Eureka. Copelan weighed 7 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A girl, Avery Jan Hetfeld, born Dec. 15, 2008, to Joshua and Jennifer Hetfeld, Luck. Avery weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

•••

EMT BASIC CLASS

Unity Area Ambulance and Northland Ambulance Services are hosting an EMT Basic Class in Luck, starting the middle of January. If interested in helping your communities, please call Greg Carlson at WITC for an application. Phone #1-800-243-9482 Ext. 4202 or go to the WITC Web site.

For more information, call Linette Erickson at Unity Area Ambulance, 715-825-4444 or RaeAnn Allen, 715-472-2388 at Northland 475120 17-18L Ambulance Service.

SINCERE THANK-YOU

A very sincere thank-you is extended to Michelle Sherrard, Wendy Sherrard and Michelle Hopkins who organized my benefit and all of their time and hard work.

Thank you to all of our friends who also helped organize and work the benefit and to those who donated chili and bars. It couldn’t have been done without you.

Thank you to all the individuals and businesses who donated items, gift certificates and money.

A huge thank-you to everyone who came to the benefit to show their support.

It’s wonderful to have such warm and caring people in one’s life. And, we can’t thank you all enough for all the love and support we have received during this little hur475364 dle in our lives.

7dp 18Lp

Jennifer, Al, Scott and Andrew Cebery

Engagement

Peterson/Waters Neil Peterson and Tammy Waters, along with their family and friends, are pleased to announce their engagement to be married.

Neil and Tammy were engaged Dec. 24, 2007. Neil is the son of Jerry and Gladys Peterson of Luck. Tammy is the daughter of Dick and Dody Rudlang of Pequot Lakes, Minn.

The couple currently reside in Luck and are planning their wedding. – Photo submitted

Dewey - LaFollette

468-2940

Karen Mangelsen

An unidentified Good Samaritan plowed Lee Sexton’s driveway Sunday, Dec. 14. Lee is very appreciative of whoever it was.

Judy Albee went to a Christmas party Tuesday at the home of Cheryl Gozdzialski.

Beth Crosby, Dixie Andrea, Judy Albee and Judy Leonard went to White Bear Lake, Minn., Thursday. They enjoyed a time of shopping and visiting.

Nina, Lawrence, Donna and Gerry Hines, Don and Lida Nordquist, and Andy, Geri, Hank and Karen Mangelsen gathered at the home of John and Diana Mangelsen for a potluck supper Thursday. They then enjoyed an evening of playing cards.

Gerry and Donna Hines visited Inez and Arvid Pearson Friday morning. They then went to Vadnais Heights, Minn., and stayed with daughter Brenda and Tim Sweet and family. On Sunday, they went to the home of their son, Barry and Sue Hones, and family in Centerville, Minn. They attended the Christmas program of grandchildren, Alexandra, Joshua and Olivia Hines, and then returned home.

Karen and Hank Mangelsen went to the third-grade performance of “Polar Express” at Siren School Friday afternoon. Granddaughter Mandy Close was one of the readers. In the evening, Hank and Karen went to the Close home to help Mandy celebrate her birthday.

Roy and Dee Nordquist were supper guests of Lida and Don Nordquist Friday.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen joined their family at the home of Jake and Holly Mangelsen Saturday to celebrate Christmas together.

Judy and Greg Leonard and Dixie and Church Andrea hosted a progressive dinner Saturday evening for a number of friends, to celebrate the Christmas season.

Lakeview United Methodist Church youth and Sunday school children presented a Christmas program Sunday morning during the church service. Featured solist was Bryan Knoop on his guitar.

Dick Quinton visited Judy Albee Sunday evening.

Clam River Tuesday Club will meet Jan. 7, at 1:30 p.m., at the home of Judy Albee.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER It is hard to believe that the Inter-County Leader once had almost 80 correspondents representing many area communities.

Lewis news was once written by Jens Hanson, who also wrote for The Evening Telegram published in Superior.

Mrs. Axel Westlund (Ida) wrote the Lewis news as next in line to Jens. She often helped out in Westlund’s Store and heard lots of news when people came in to shop.

Christmas was different in those days. Mincemeat came in the bulk, and Ida would measure it out and weigh it. It came in a big pail-like tub. Dates came in bulk, too.

Cookies by the pound. They came in individual boxes set in a stand to display them.

349-2964 Enough already with this snowy weather. I know the area snowmobilers are loving it, but for heaven’s sake, do we have to have it snow almost every weekend? I think Old Man Winter can spread it out a little. After all, winter is several months long. If he keeps on dropping this much snow every weekend, we could end up with snow up to our eyebrows.

An evening of fun and food was enjoyed by the Siren Lioness as they celebrated their Christmas party on Tuesday evening, Dec. 16 at Madden’s. A short meeting preceded the food and fun.

Congratulations to elementary student Justus Christianson, middle-schooler Mathew Wampfier and high-schooler Heather Bearheart for being chosen Siren School’s students of the week.

Best wishes go to retired Chief Deputy Don Taylor, who is officially retired. However, for those of you who know Don and would like to wish him well in his retirement, there

Frederic Senior Center The snow and cold weather slowed things at our center.

Monday no regular Spades game, but two tables played Spades and had an enjoyable time playing and having lunch.

Tuesday was another quiet day. The morning coffee drinkers get here even if it’s cold.

Wednesday, Pokeno enjoyed and refreshment time and visiting.

Thursday night 500 cards with the following winners: Bill Ihrig in first place, Arvid Pearson in second place, Richard Hustad in third place and Hazel Hoffman in fourth place.

Friday Pokeno at 1 p.m.

Saturday food and fellowship. Last Saturday was special, with Santa’s visit.

We will no have 500 on Thursday night, Dec. 25. We will not have Pokeno on Wednesday, Christmas Eve. Our executive meeting will be held on Friday, Dec. 26, at 9:30 a.m.

Jan. 1 is our holiday potluck lunch with games following dinner. No 500 Thursday night.

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Nature story time at Interstate Park ST. CROIX FALLS – A popular program for preschool children and their parents will start up again this winter at Wisconsin Interstate Park after the holidays.

Thursdays at 10 a.m., beginning Jan. 8 through March, naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with preschoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. A short activity following the story will reinforce the story’s nature-related theme. Nature story time will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants. “It is a great opportunity for parents to get out to the park with their little ones during this time of the year,” commented Fox. Participants will spend time indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly.

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, on Hwy. 35 just one-half mile south of Hwy. 8. Nature story time is free of charge, but a Wisconsin State park sticker is required to enter the park. Annual passes for 2009 are $25 for Wisconsin residents or $35 for nonresidents. For more information call Julie at 715-483-3747. - submitted

“What do these cookies taste like?” a customer would ask.

And Axel would replay, “I don’t know. Take one.” And we’d end up with one or two pounds in a plain brown paper bag.

All those old-time favorite cookies including chocolatecovered mint ones (just like today’s Girl Scout cookies), Sally Ann, plain white sugar, molasses ones. Good old Fig Newtons. The price was unbelievably low by today’s standards.

And prizes in Cracker Jack were really something, collectibles, today.

In 1950, Westlunds Bros. Store was already an old-time

Bernice Abrahamzon grocery store. Supermarkets were coming into style, and shopping was changing.

We remember how the whole leg of beef was hauled out to lay on the wooden chopping block so a slice of round steak could be cut off. The most amazing fact is that round steak was as tender as sirloin.

Going to Westlund’s was a unique experience.

We even ordered a new bicycle for our son’s birthday.

Axel brought it from the city.

It is fun to remember the old-time news of Lewis.

Impossible, too, to write the Lewis news before it happens.

Merry Christmas, faithful readers.

Siren will be a special retirement party open house for you to attend on Saturday, Jan. 10, at the Siren Crooked Lake Lodge, with a social hour starting at 6 p.m., and a roasting and toasting event starting at 7:30 p.m. So come and spend time visiting with him and wish him well.

Have you taken the time to drive by the Crooked Lake Park’s Christmas decorations in the evening hours? The Siren Lions did a great job of decorating the park this year.

Also there are several homes in our area beautifully decorated, so take time and drive around the area and enjoy the beauty.

Sympathy to the family of Genevieve M. Shostedt, who passed away Dec. 13.

All you brides out there who are planning a wedding for the coming year, mark your calendars for Sunday, Jan. 25.

The Wedding Showcase is coming to the Siren Northwoods Crossing Events Center on that date, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be exhibitors with lots of great ideas to

Bev Beckmark make your wedding a day to remember. This event is put on by the Burnett County Sentinal, the Northwoods Crossing Events Center and Saratoga Weddings, and is an event you don’t want to miss.

As Christmas draws near, my wish for all my readers is that you all have a happy and safe holiday!

The mitten tree is down at the U.S. Bank, and all 311 items have been distributed, the 142 pairs of mittens, 92 hats and 75 scarves were taken to Siren, Webster and Nelson schools, as well as Head Start and Indianhead.

The Lioness would like to send a huge thank you to all the knitters and crocheters for all the work they did to make a great tree this year.

Here is a first, I do believe, Hazel Franseen had a flock of robins in her crabapple tree during the snowstorm last weekend. The real treat though, was the varied thrush that visited Nancy Tamminga’s crabapple tree.

Siren Senior Center It might be a little late to alert everyone that the center is having a potluck dinner tomorrow (Wednesday, Dec. 24) at 11:30 am. The Siren Lioness’ have donated $50 to the center and at our meeting last Tuesday we voted to spend it on a Christmas party potluck. The committee decided that we purchase a beef roast from Russ, which I did, and Russ promised if we roasted it and brought it back to the shop, he would slice it for us. So everyone will have some delicious roast beef sandwiches. If you can make it, either bring a covered dish or just come, as there is always plenty of food.

The Interfaith Caregivers came on Monday and picked up the box of toys that we had collected for their Toys for Children drive. Thank you, all who contributed towards this, they appreciated our efforts and I know the kids will enjoy it even more.

I have been the lucky one to deliver our donations to the Burnett County Humane Society. I had the pleasure this week when making my delivery to meet a handsome dude by the name of Toby. He greeted me warmly at the door and checked out all of the items and was especially interested in the doggie treats we had donated. What a sweetheart! If he hasn’t been adopted, I am sure he will have a loving family before long.

At our monthly meeting on Tuesday, we decided to undecorate the center on Jan. 5,at 9:30 a.m. If you are available that Monday morning, come out and help pack away our Christmas decorations. We can use all the help we can get.

Transportation needs were also discussed at the meeting. Some of our members have had difficulty in getting rides to their medical centers or to the grocery store or other emergencies. A list of volunteer drivers was compiled and copies are available at the center for our members at the center for those in need.

We want to thank the Burnett County Democrats for the pop that was left over from at their Christmas party and which they donated to the center. Special thanks from Marge Nyberg who is the one who purchases it out of her pocket with the proceeds all going to the center.

The Dining at Five dinner sheet is out at the center and ready for reservations. CeCe is planning on serving baked ribs, roasted potatoes, a vegetable, salad bar and lemon bars for dessert. She is planning on having two sauces (barbeque and sweet/sour) available on each table so you will have a choice of whichever you prefer on your meat.

As the first Thursday falls on New’s Years Day, we will be serving the dinner on Thursday, Jan. 8. Hope the weather cooperates and we have a good crowd.

Don Brand is back home after his foot surgery, and we hope to see him out and about at the center shortly. Eloise Anderson is also recuperating at her daughter’s and you may send her a card at, 7642 D’Jock Street, Siren, WI 54872.

We had four tables of dime Bingo players on Tuesday.

Wednesday winners at 500 were Neil Olson, Roger Gree-

Barb Munger

ley, Clara Palomaki, Inez Pearson and Ed Berdal. Spades winners were Roger Greeley, Barb Munger and Gerry Vogel.

Keep in mind that our box is always out for your donations to the humane society. They can use bleach, detergent, food, blankets, towels, ink cartridges and, of course, all kinds of dog and cat food plus treats.

A reminder, beginning in January, the cost for the nutrition meal will be $3.50. This is still a bargain - where else can you get a full dinner for that price? To make reservations call the center at 715-349-2845.

Call 715-349-7810 if you have any inquiries about the center. Stay warm and healthy.

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS St. Croix Falls Public Library The Big Read is back!

Our Big Read selection is the 1903 classic “The Call of the Wild,” by Jack London. Jerked from his comfortable home and sold as a sled dog, Buck’s harsh journey through the Klondike wilderness leads him back to his instinctual roots. Adventure, perseverance, and survival play prominent roles in this unforgettable tale, a familiar parallel to the profit-seeking fur traders, lumberjacks and settlers of the St. Croix Valley. Mark your calendar for the Klondike Kick-off Event, Jan. 24, 2009, 1-4 p.m., at the Wert Family Nature Center and the St. Croix Scenic National Riverway Visitor Center.

Featuring: Guided tours, literary and folk arts activities, sled dog demos and a program.

One in a Hundred – Win a gift certificate for a Traditional Rug Braiding Class at In the Wool. This one-day class will teach you how to make a traditional braided rug from wool fabric. Class includes instruction, braiding clamp, lacer, lacing thread, wool for 2-by-3 oval rug or a 3-by-3 round rug. A $195 value.

Tickets are $1 at the library. Only 100 tickets will be sold! Buy a ticket for a yourself, or a friend – it’s worth a chance.

There is still time to make a tax-deductible donation for 2008. Make a donation honor of someone you care for or a person who has made an impact on your life. A great way to say best wishes for the season! When a memorial contribution or honor gift is received, we will send an acknowledgment card bearing your name to whomever you designate.

All contributions are tax deductible. Donate online, pick up a form at the library or contact Sarah Adams, library director, for more details or to make gift arrangements.

Story hour Listen to stories, create great art and have fun with other kids and parents every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.

Hours, contact The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, except Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed on Sunday. 715-4831777. E-mail: scflibrary@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Online: www.stcroixfallslibrary.org. The library will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Friday Dec. 26, and Thursday, Jan. 1.

Clear Lake Public Library Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 7 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 6 p.m.; Wednesday: 3 - 9 p.m.; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Friday: noon -

5 p.m.; and Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. We can be reached by phone at 715263-2802 or by e-mail at clearlakepl@ifls.lib.wi.us.

Milltown Public Library Rescheduled event Terry Fisk, the co-author of “Wisconsin Road Guide to Haunted Locations,” has rescheduled his presentation at the Milltown Public Library. Please join us on Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m., for this hair-raising event.

Book club Calling all bibliophiles! The Milltown book club will gather again on Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. No assigned books, no stodgy questions. This will be a time for book lovers to gather, share and inspire. We’ll post all the discussed books on our Web site.

Gamers club Play with the new Wii until 7 p.m. on Thursdays. This is only open to high school and middle school teenagers who have a library card with under $10 in fines.

We are wireless Bring your laptops to the Milltown Public Library and enjoy our free, fast wireless Internet access. No library card necessary.

Story hour Milltown Public Library offers story time every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. yearround. Story times are free and are designed for children under 6 and their caregivers. Each story time lasts 30 to 45 minutes and includes time to browse and check out books. There will be no story time on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30 for holiday vacation.

Perk up We now proudly offer Wren Blend coffee at the Milltown Library all day, every day we’re open! This organic, fair trade coffee tastes fantastic. Meet with friends in our coffee lounge which now has extra seating, or surf the Web on your laptop while watching the hustle and bustle of Milltown’s Main Street. Our goal is to make your library the living room of the community – please check out and support this newest effort!

Friends of the Library Take your love of the Milltown Library to the next level by joining the Friends of the Milltown Public Library.

Learn more about this new group at their next meeting, open to the public, on Thursday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m. This group can use as much or as very little of your time and talents as you care to give. A friends group will benefit the library by assisting with fundraisers, advising the director on library programs, and making the library eligible for more grants.

Please call the library at 715-825-2313 if you are interested in the Friends of the Milltown Public Library.

Happy holidays The library will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 24 and 25, Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.

Hours The library hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Sunday closed.

Balsam Lake Public Library

Frederic Public Library Holiday schedule The library will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 24, Thursday, Dec. 25, and Thursday, Jan. 1. Special New Year’s Eve hours will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31. The library staff extends greetings of the season to all!

Movie time at the library The library will show movies on the big screen during school vacation, and everyone is invited. Here is the movie schedule: Friday, Dec. 26, 3 p.m., “Prince Caspian,” rated PG, 149 minutes; Monday, Dec. 29, 3 p.m., “Horton Hears a Who,” rated G, 86 minutes; Tuesday, Dec. 30, 3 p.m., “Evan Almighty,” rated PG, 96 minutes; Friday, Jan. 2, 3 p.m., “Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Beginning,” rated G, 77 minutes.

We need yarn for Operation Warm and Toasty Operation Warm and Toasty is a secondary project of the Cookie Brigade, an area nonprofit organization that sends homemade cookies to our servicemen and women. Words of gratitude have been recently received from military personnel who have distributed the hats and leg-warmers to wounded soldiers being flown from Iraq to hospitals in Germany. You can become part of this worthwhile program by visiting the library to pick up pattern information for the projects, or by contributing yarn for Operation Warm and Toasty. The yarn basket is empty, and we would like to fill it up.

Story time resumes Jan, 7 After a short break, story time begins again Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 10:30 a.m., when preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to attend an hour of stories, crafts and music. If you’re interested in being an occasional reader at story time, please let us know – we’ll provide the books, and you’ll provide the voice.

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.

Wireless Internet access available The library offers free wireless Internet access for those who bring in their laptops, and the fresh, hot coffee is free, too.

Hours and information Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak Street West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular open hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Polk County Library Federation The director is Colleen Gifford, assistant director/youth services is Molly Kessler and the library clerk is Stephanie Fansler. Please call the Polk County Library Federation for more information,

715-485-8680.

The Polk County Library Federation is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Amery Public Library “The Plain Sense of Things,” by Pamela Carter Joern.

In language as spare and barren as the Nebraska plains she writes about, Pamela Carter Joern has told the story of a family beginning in 1930 and ending in 1979. The grandparents are called to pick up a grandchild after their estranged daughter dies unexpectedly. Billy, the little boy, is fine but finds his world changed forever. Death and poverty seem to trail this family who survive in spite of hardship.

Alice marries young to Jake, an older farmer. She is as pretty as a picture, but as is usually the case, Jake is not everything she dreamed of. When farming is no longer an option for him, he struggles with other jobs, never really happy off the land.

Pamela Carter Joern has a discerning ear for the language of the Midwest and a set of characrers who will tug at your heartstrings. “The Plain Sense of Things” is an eloquent look at hard times in the prairie heartland.

Library notes We will have no story time for two weeks over the holiday because both Wednesdays fall on days the library is closed. We start up again on Jan. 7 with songs, fingerplays and snow stories.

Osceola Public Library

Happy holidays to all the story time families.

Friends of the Library meet to elect officers on Jan. 12, at 5:30 p.m.

This meeting is open to all friends members. The Friends of the Library book group meets on Jan 12, to discuss “The Tortilla Curtain,” by T. Corregesson Boyle at 7 p.m. Pick up a book at the circulation desk and join us for book talk.

Ameryopoly games are still available at the Amery Area Public Library for $25.

Pick one up for your kids who grew up in Amery, they would like it. The funds go to fund the library expansion.

Otaku Club meets at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays at the Amery Area Public Library for teens and older who love manga, anime and gaming. Stop in and check it out.

Gratitude is extended to everyone who remembered the library at the holiday season with donations and goodies for the staff.

Library hours Hours will be Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 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. Holiday hours: Closed Dec. 24 and 25 and Dec. 31 and Jan. 1. So stock up before the holidays.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

POLK COUNTY LIBRARY NEWS

Balsam Lake Public Library Holiday hours The library will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 24 and 25. We will open at 10 a.m. as usual on Friday, Dec. 26. We will close at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Happy holidays to everyone.

Story time No story time on Wednesday, Dec. 24 or 31. Story time is at 11 a,m, every Wednesday here at the library. All ages are welcome to join us for stories, crafts, music and snacks.

Going green Do you have extra canvas bags?

Please bring your extras to the library – we will use them instead of plastic. Recycle and reuse every little bit helps.

Food shelf We are now a food donation drop-off site for Loaves and Fishes food shelf, which serves Luck and Unity school district. Our food for fines in November brought in 200 pounds for the food shelf because people brought food even if they had no fines - so we decided to be a drop-off site. Each bag of food that goes to a family needs canned meat, canned fruit, peanut butter, can of juice, box or bag of cereal, toilet paper and soap.

Osceola Public Library

Book club Our selection for January is “Raising Hell for Justice,” by David Obey “A stirring memoir of a political warrior who has spent four decades fighting for social justice. But Obey’s book is also indispensable reading for those of all political persuasions who wish to understand how Congress has functioned and sometimes not functioned - in modern times. Wisconsin Badgers will also relish the light Obey casts on the politics of his state and his elegiac memories of student life at its university.” - Graham K. Wilson, chair, Department of Political Science, University of Wisconsin – Madison. Book club will meet on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 3 p.m.

New books “Scarpetta,” by Patricia Cornwell, “Your Heart Belongs to Me,” by Dean Koontz, “Good Woman,” by Danielle Steel, “Tis the Season,” by Lorna Landvik, “Small Town Christmas,” by Debbie Macomber.

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.

Luck Public Library Happy 2009 St. Croix Valley Family Resource Center still has two openings for its Luck Library Parenting group. The group meets Thursdays from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at the Luck Public Library. For more information about the group and to preregister, please call the St. Croix Valley Family Resource Center at 715-684-4440.

New classes will begin Jan. 8, 2009.

Luck Public Library will begin their new hours Jan. 2, 2009. We will be open from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday – Thursday. Fridays we will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday we will be open from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bookmarks with our new hours are available at the library. Preschool story hour will be from 11 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays.

Food For Fines is over now, but we would like to thank everyone who opted to pay their library overdue fines with food this month. Together we collected over 400 items to be donated to the local food shelf. What a great way to begin the new year.

Kid Yoga will be held at the Luck Library Thursdays at 1 p.m. from Jan. 8 – Feb. 12. This class is being offered through Luck Community Ed. Recom-

mended ages is 18 months – 5 years of age. Parents and kids will learn the basic concepts such as breathing and yoga posture as well as some child appropriate yoga positions. Course fee is $13.71 per parents/ child team. For multiple children in the same family, each additional child is $4. Call 4722152 ext. 103 for more information or to register.

Dec. 6 was Santa Days at the Luck Library. We have many unclaimed photos of children with Santa. Perhaps one of these photos is your child. If you think there is a possibility that we have your child’s photo, please come to the library and look through the photo disc.

Things with Strings / Knitting group meets every Wednesday at the Luck Library from 3 – 6 p.m. Join us for all or part of the time. We love newcomers.

Come, chat, share and relax. Everyone welcome. Bring your projects.

Hours Monday 1-5 p.m., Tuesday 1-8 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Thursday 1-8 p.m., Friday 1-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-noon.

Every photo is in color in our e-edition.

Check it out @ www.the-leader.net

Due To The New Year Holiday, The Deadline For Articles & Inter-County Ad Copy For The Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Published on Tues., Dec. 30 Will Be

303 N. Wisconsin Ave. Frederic, Wis.

715-327-4236

24154 State Rd. 35N Siren, Wis.

715-349-2560

474576 17-18L

Monday, Dec. 29 at 10 a.m.

Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association 107 N. Washington St. St. Croix Falls, Wis.

715-483-9008

Library closed/early closing The library will be closed all day on the following dates: Wednesday, Dec. 24, Thursday, Dec. 25, and Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009. The library will close at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 31.

Have a fun and safe holiday.

Adult winter reading program January through March 2009. You’re reading great books anyhow, you might as well get some fine incentives out of it.

Keep your eyes peeled for more information about the 2009 adult winter reading program.

Wireless Internet The Osceola Public Library now has wireless Internet available for patrons.

Bring in your laptop or other wireless devices and take advantage of our highspeed server.

Family story times Story time is held on Wednesdays at 6 p.m., and Encore family story time is Saturdays at 11 a.m. Toddlers through second-graders and an accompanying adult are invited to join Tiffany every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning for a themed half hour of fun, songs and stories.

Preschool story time Preschool story time is Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers and an accompanying caretaker are welcome to join director Nate on Thursday mornings for a half hour of stories, fun and songs.

Hours, contact Our hours are Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday noon to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our phone number is 715-294-2310, and our Web address is www.osceolapublic library.org.

Centuria Public Library New services at the Centuria Public Library Recently, the Centuria Public Library has had the equipment necessary to offer wireless Internet services to the public installed. If you own your own laptop and wish to log onto the Internet, you can do it right from the library. No library card is needed.

In addition to the free wireless Internet access, the Centuria Public Library has been given through the support of the Unity Lions Club, a CCTV reader machine, which enlarges print for indi-

viduals with vision problems. This machine is available to be used by anyone that requires the magnification of print free of charge and without the use of a library card. Gratitude is extended to the Unity Lions Club for providing this reader machine to the Centuria Public Library.

Regular library hours Monday: Noon - 5 p.m.; Tuesday: noon - 7 p.m.; Wednesday: noon - 5 p.m.; Thursday: noon - 7 p.m.; Friday: closed; and Saturday: 10 a.m. - noon.

Dresser Public Library Dresser Public Library is located at 117 S. Central Ave., Dresser, WI 54009. The Dresser Public Library Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting Monday, Jan. 12, 2009, at 6:30 p.m., at the library.

Library hours Monday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Tuesday noon–5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–noon and 1–7 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. The library will be closed Christmas Day, Saturday, Dec. 27, and New Year’s Day. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Three Internet computers You must physically present a MORE library card to library staff and library fines must be under $10 to use a computer. We are experiencing sporadic difficulty with our public access computers. Please be patient as we try and determine the problem and alleviate it.

Great news! We are now wireless! Log onto the “Public Library” icon on your laptop’s desktop to access the Internet.

Cell phone policy The Dresser Library Board of Trustees adopted a cell phone usage policy on Nov. 27. Cell phone use is prohibited in the library. Please set your cell phone to vibrate rather than ring, then step outside to conduct your conservation.

Great news We are now wireless. Log onto the public library icon on your laptop to access the internet.

Coming up Story time for lap-sitters and preschoolers returns Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009, 10-11 a.m. Join us for stories, crafts and fingerplays.

Crochet class for beginners is held each Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. New members of all ages are welcome!

Contact us: 715-755-2944 telephone and fax number, e-mail us at dresserpl@ifls.lib.wi.us, or visit our Web site, www.dresserpubliclibrary.org, which has information about story time, days closed, reference links, library policy and community information.

IF YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED!

The Supreme Court of the State of Wisconsin appoints the members of the District 11 Committee of the Office of Lawyer Regulation. This committee investigates and reports on attorney conduct to ensure the ethical and competent practice of law by Wisconsin attorneys. I am honored to have been selected chairman of that committee.

I have successfully handled injury and death cases since 1977. Home, hospital and office appointments are available. Cases are handled on a contingent fee basis, such that if there is no recovery, there is no fee. When you, a relative or a friend, need an attorney, you should contact John Grindell at Grindell Law Offices, S.C., Box 585, Frederic, WI 54837. Telephone: 715-327-5561.

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PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Amery Senior Center Well I can’t believe the year is almost over – 2009 is right around the corner! We have a lot of plans for 2009, so make sure you continue to check the column, our newsletter and our Web site to see all the things we have in store.

The 2009 membership dues are due Jan. 1, so if you haven’t already paid, please consider renewing your membership – it’s only $12 a year! That’s only $1/month – what a bargain for all you are getting!

The Scrap n’ Stampers held their Second-annual Christmas party on Tuesday – gratitude is extended to Mary Leslie for hosting it again this year. There was ton of food, a lot of laughs and everyone had a great time. (I laughed so hard about the ‘bag’ incident that my face hurt!) There is a bonus scrapping night on Tuesday, Dec. 30, at 6 p.m. The regular stamping/scrapping times are the first and third Tuesday’s at 6 p.m., and the second and fourth Thursday’s at 9:30 a.m.

Everyone is welcome!

If you don’t want to spend Christmas alone, or if you just want to be waited on this year, how about spending Christmas at Centennial Hall this year? We will be serving a full Christmas dinner, complete with roast turkey, ham, real mashed potatoes, veggies, desserts and much more. The date, of course, is Thursday, Dec. 25, the time will be 1 p.m. Call Donna 715-2687092 to reserve your spot.

We’ll have plenty of food for you!

Gratitude is extended to Don Waldbilig, Pat Mitchell and her friend, Ann Wike and Milt Johnson for helping Susan assemble the January newsletter.

469044 5Ltfc Sydney Lund was first in

Monday Bridge, with Bev Vetter in second.

Val Hansen won first place at our weekly Pool tournament, with Jerry Fisher in second, Paul Seidel in third and Mary Fisher fourth. Mary Fisher won first place in the Bowling tournament with a record score of 708 (wow!), with Carl Johnson in second and Paul Seidel third. Everyone is welcome to play in the Pool and Bowling tournaments – the cost is $2, with money going back out in prizes. Donna Pelc was first in Wednesday Bridge, with Judy Strobush second, and Paul Satterlund third.

Don’t forget we are closed Dec. 24-26 (except for the Christmas Day dinner) and Thursday, Jan. 1. We are also closing at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24.

Happy Holidays!

God bless you all.

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Rudolph

About six years ago, Nanny (Judy) thought we should have Rudolph visit the farm during Christmas. We had the house buttoned down enough to be here; everything was done except for the taping and hanging the inside doors.

I didn’t disagree but asked her how we were going to pull that off. She explained that I could put a red light on my nose and run through the woods. I asked her if I could just walk and she explained that Rudolph was really fast because he had to go all over the world in one night. I suggested that I could pretend I was Frosty the Snowman and just stand in the woods but she thought that was really a stupid idea.

I knew I wasn’t going to get out of this so I started rummaging through our hunting gear and found a Petzl head light with a red lens. I also found a couple of Midland walkie-talkies I figured would come in handy if Rudolph got lost.

The grandkids were 3, 6, 10 and 14 so there was a chance Stevi (14) would be hard to fool.

Christmas Eve went as planned; we ate white cookies, krumkake, rosettes, lefse and potato klub while the kids opened presents.

In the middle of all the commotion, Rudolph slipped out the door, put the bag of presents from Santa under the deck, and headed to the ridge south of the house. I had to go about 100 yards south and then go west 300 yards before I started my Rudolph ruse. It was dark but with the snow I could see the ground pretty good. By the time I got into position I was kind of getting into the mood. I adjusted the head lamp so it was hanging on the end of my nose and keyed the walkie-talkie to signal the dads that the show was starting. I trotted about ten feet before I hit a big red oak. I don’t know what I was thinking; the light on the end of my nose had

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blinded me.

There was a little delay while I retrieved the light out of the snow, got stood up and repositioned the light on my cap to shine straight ahead. I decided I would walk since I was already winded.

After about fifty yards, I realized Rudolph’s nose wasn’t shining toward the house so I turned my head in that direction and made it about four steps before I encountered another tree. All I could think was how disappointed the little kids would be if Rudolph died in Papa’s woods. The last collision jogged my mind to the idea of adjusting the light to the left side of my head so I could look straight ahead. At this point Rudolph was limping.

When the route was finished I turned off the light and headed to the house. I stashed the light and snuck inside. The kids were nuts, they were all telling me about Rudolph at the same time.

“Papa, Papa, Rudolph was up on the hill in the woods.”

“Papa, Papa, Rudolph stopped a couple of times to eat.”

“Papa, Papa, Dad said Rudolph was going slowly because he’s pulling a big load.”

I told them that Santa probably left them presents under the deck.

They never did ask about the gash on my schnozzle or the limp.

In the ensuing years, Frank and Bart have taken over.

This year Rudolph has a hernia, so Santa’s gifts may come by mail.

We’re going to miss all those little hand- and face-prints on the south-facing windows.

Brooke Biedinger Irregular

Columnist

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Webster Christmas concert

Members of the Webster High School band during their performance on Monday, Dec. 8.

Webster seventh- and eighth-grade band performed during the Christmas concert held Dec. 8, under the direction of Julie Strang.— Photos submitted by the Webster High School

The Webster seventh- and eighth-grade (L) and high school (R) choirs sang several numbers during the Christmas concert under the direction of James Muus.

Luck Middle and High School Christmas concerts

Percussionist Laurie Jorgenson plays the triangle during the band’s performance of “All Glory Community members join choir members, front row (L to R): Alysha Dal- Told” at the Luck High bec, Grace Jenson and Ali Lehmann; middle row: Brittney Danielson, Maia School Christmas ConLehmann, Symone Wefel, Ashley Overby and Nick Emerson; back row: Andy cert.

Wortman, Connery Johnson, Jerod Buck and Curtis Donald, in singing “Carol of the Bells” to conclude the Luck High School Christmas Concert. Photos by Lori Nelson

During the middle school Christmas concert on Dec. 8, at Luck, sixth-graders, bottom row (L to R): Franki Wilkinson and Katie Pfaff; middle row, Sean Haasnoot and Bruce Campion; top row, Trent Strapon, Derek Hutton and Antonio Morales sang “Pine Cones and Holly Berries.”

Seventh- and eight-grade choir members, bottom row (L to R) Rose Rambo, Kylie Rich and Hannah Karl; middle row, Samantha Harvey, Logan Hamack, Kelcie Wilson and Jillian Peterson; top row, C. J. Haasnoot, Cody Engstrand, Noah Musial and Jordan Bazey sang “Silver Bells” during the Luck Middle School Christmas Concert.

Band members, front row (L to R): Melissa Jenssen and Grace Jenson; back row: Kenny Sanford, and Kassi Ingram, play “The Legend of Danny Boy” during the Luck High School Christmas Concert held Monday, Dec. 15.

As elementary Principal John Nichols narrated, the sixth-grade band played “T’was the Night Before Christmas” during the middle school Christmas concert at Luck.

The seventhand eight-grade trumpet players played solos during the band’s presentation of “Hark! The Herald Trumpets Sing” at the Luck Middle School Christmas Concert. – Photos by Lori Nelson

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Frederic Holiday Concert

Two different bell choirs performed during the concert. Each group played three songs. - Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

Frederic High School performed a holiday concert on Sunday, Dec. 14, at 2 p.m. Members of the audience were invited by vocal music instructor Greg Heine to join the high school concert choir in singing “Hallelujah Chorus.”

The show choir sang five songs. Adrianna Otte was the only one to sing a solo. For their finale, they danced and sang “Merry Christmas Polka.”

Many individual band members played solos or duets during their section of the concert.

The high school concert choir was the last to perform. They sang five different selections ending with “Night of Silence.”

Gingerbread houses created at Adventures Judy, the dietary manager at Adventures Restaurant & Pub, Siren, came up with the idea of asking staff to create gingerbread houses to go along with the restaurant’s holiday decorating theme of candy land and gingerbread.

Eight staff responded, creating the church and houses shown here. The original idea was just to show the houses; however, customers asked if they could vote for their favorite. The church/houses, almost all of them completely edible, will be on display until the end of the year. Voting paper and pencils are provided for viewers to cast a ballot for their favorite, if they can choose one from this creative group of entries.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Polar Express stops at Grantsburg Elementary GRANTSBURG – Dec. 15-19 was declared Polar Express Week at Grantsburg Elementary School. Reading activities centering on the favorite holiday book happened all week long, with a special Polar Express Morning held on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

Parents and students were told they were welcome to wear their pajamas and/or robes for the morning festivities, which included pastries and hot chocolate in the school gym. Students and parents then headed for the classrooms to read the Polar Express story together.

“The Polar Express” is a Caldecott book award winner and all the students were excited to receive a Polar Express gift set, which included a hardcover copy of “The Polar Express,” a CD, a tape and a souvenir bell from Santa’s sleigh.

Teachers sent Polar Express reading logs home for students to complete. After reading the required number of books, the students attached their completed sheets to train cars with their names, then put the cars behind the Polar Express Engine.

“This was a fun, schoolwide learning activity,” said district reading specialist Sally Craven, who obtained the Polar Express gift packages for the students through a grant from the First Book company. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Craven remarked at finding the grant allowing each elementary student to receive the book and gift set. - Priscilla Bauer

Grantsburg Elementary student Brandie Madsen looked like one of Santa’s helpers as she snuggled with her dad at the Polar Express Morning held on Dec. 17.

Parents and students enjoyed pastries and hot chocolate before reading the Polar Express storybook in classrooms.

AmeriCorp volunteer Sara Christopherson and district reading specialist Sally Craven dressed as Santa’s elves for the special Polar Express Morning at Grantsburg Elementary School last week.

Posing behind the school’s own Polar Express train are students Katlyn Johnson, Hannah Drimmel, Alethea Simmons, Mickey Widell and Rilee Hoffman. — Photos by Priscilla Bauer

Sheldon Stedman and his mom enjoyed breakfast together last week when parents were invited to a Polar Express Morning at Grantsburg Elementary School. The morning’s activities included pastries, hot chocolate and reading time together of the favorite holiday storybook.

Janelle Hermann and daughter Lauren read the Polar Express story with other parents and students during the Polar Express Morning held last week at Grantsburg Elementary School.

Luck Elementary Christmas concert Members of the first-grade class sing during their class’ production of “Toys Galore!” at the Luck Elementary School Christmas Concert.

Santa, played by Dennis Brule, watches on as elves (front row) Matthew Buffington, Mackenzee Hays, Julianna Thompson, Logan Stevens and (back row) Andrew Lemieux take orders by phone, and Agostino Banda, Merlin Hibbs and Clara Allen sing “The Telephone Song” during the second-grade production of “Santa’s Shopping Network” at the Luck Elementary School Christmas concert. – Photos submitted RIGHT: Many boys portrayed wooden soldiers during the first-grade’s production of “Toys Galore” at the Luck Elementary School Christmas program.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

Centuria's Cozy Christmas

Centuria’s Cozy Country Christmas Santa and Mrs. Claus were visited by many friends during the cold weekend.

“When I grow up I want to be Santa,” stated Tyler Paulsen, son of Rory and Dana Paulsen while he was decorating cookies at the holiday house festivities in Centuria during the Cozy Country Christmas.

LEFT: Centuria’s royalty hosted a friendly tournament during the Cozy Country Christmas festivities. Those participating included: Julia Larsen - Milltown princess, Kaylynn Olson - Milltown princess, Alicia Milander - Miss Milltown, Amanda Brunotte - Centuria princess, Brooke Gillespie - Miss Centuria, Laura Krueger - Centuria princess and Joy Albrecht - Balsam Lake princess. – Photos

by Jeanne Alling

Milltown Santa Day

Milltown’s Royalty Julia Larsen and Kaylynn Olson even had a chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus during Milltown’s Santa Day. – Photos by Jeanne Alling

Jolly Milltown 4-H members served cookies and punch at the annual Santa Day festivities in Milltown. 4-H members get together to make the cookies as part of their service project.

Wrapping gifts at the Country Store for Milltown’s Santa Day were Faith Christensen and Jenny Vlasnik. After visiting Santa, children could visit the Country Store to buy assorted items.

Even Mrs. Claus took time for last-minute shopping the Santa Day’s Country Store in Milltown.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Christmas gift presented

Amery American Legion Honor Guard members Gerald Shilts, Doug Gunderson and David Johnson present a Christmas gift to veteran Ken Olson. Over 30 men and women veterans in the three nursing homes in Amery, including GAM, were recognized for their service in the U.S. military. – Photo submitted

Caroling at Good Sam Adults and children from A l l i a n c e Church of the Valley entertained residents at Good Samaritan Center in St. Croix Falls, S a t u r d a y evening, Dec. 20, singing songs of the Christmas season. — Photo submitted

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PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

“Christmas Past” was not nearly so festive as it is today for some. The way Miss Nell Fisk, daughter of an outstanding pioneer family of St. Croix Falls, remembered the Christmas of her childhood, “It was nothing like it is now.

We never had all the show.”

There was no tree – “we were too afraid of fire.” There certainly was no Santa Claus to come calling, no elaborate decorations, and the gifts consisted of a few trinkets — nuts, candy or fruit dropped into their stockings. “But,” she says, “we had a big family gathering and a good dinner.”

Miss Fisk particularly recalls one Christmas when, as usual, the children’s stockings were hung ‘round the big heating stove.

“I was given a wax doll, but it was all soft and runny from the heat by the time I got it.”

Miss Fisk is, we believe, the oldest native St. Croixian still living here. She was born in 1879 in the big Fisk House, the hotel run by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.C. Fisk. “Mother had 11 children, but four died in infancy ... now I’m the only one left.”

She is also the last survivor of the five who made up St. Croix Falls’ first graduating class in 1895. “We had our commencement exercises in the village hall (now the Odd Fellow’s Hall on Adams Street), then we came back to the hotel for a dance,” she says.

Nell Fisk also attended classes in the first school building erected in the village, near the north end of Vincent Street. At first it was just one room, but by 1878 another room had been added.

Miss Fisk, now 86, spends the winter months in an apartment on the top floor of the Christopher building, which she once knew as the City Hotel. From her windows she has a view of the Pratt, Myhre and Weymouth homes that occupy the lots on which her parents’ hotel once stood.

It was a threestory building, with an L-shaped wing at the back that led from the barn. “It was a barn so big that you could turn a team Rosemarie four-horse around inside it.”

Vezina Miss Fisk still owns the house back of those lots that her parents bought for their retirement years.

Facing it is the Sponsored by home of Mrs. Emma Fisk, the St. Croix Falls Historical widow of Nell Fisk’s youngest Society brother, Harry. In the apartment downstairs from hers in the Christopher building lives a niece, Miss Mabel French, daughter of Nell’s oldest sister, Frances.

“My father,” Miss Fisk relates, “came here from Bangor, Maine, in 1854. He landed from the steamboat at St. Anthony Falls. Some people there told him that if he had money to invest, he should come to St. Croix Falls because that was going to be the big city of the northwest.

“But when he got here he found that the land was in litigation. There was a battle going on over the river rights between the Eastern speculators, and nothing was ever developed here until it was too late. Father was a teacher of the fine, Spencerian system of penmanship. He also worked in lumber camps some, and worked on building the dam (a lumber dam built where the N.S.P. power dam now stands.) He was also, in later years, the sheriff of Polk County.

“My parents hadn’t planned to run a hotel, but they had a big house, and people begged to let them stay over night. There was no other hotel in the village at the start, and there were many travelers through here, especially from Stillwater to the pineries up north.”

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place hewn out of a huge forest.” They traveled by railroad, Mississippi River steamboat to Prescott, Wisconsin, then a St. Croix River boat that was supposed to go upriver as far as St. Croix Falls, but, owing to low water, was forced to stop at Stillwater. They finished the journey with team and carriage.

Quoting from the 1923 newspaper interview with Mrs. C.C. Fisk: “Most of the village was then (in 1857) located between what is now known as Washington Street and the river, on the property now owned by the Power Co., and near where the power house stands.

Four or five business places could be found on Washington Street (Main Street) and the residence section of town was between there and the river. A few other buildings were scattered through the woods. A large store, owned and (Maurice) maintained by Morris Samuels, was located on the lots where Mrs. Cable’s residence now stands. This was a Native American trading post. A bowling alley had been built just south of the present H.D. Baker residence on the lots that Mr. Baker uses for a garden.

About three cottages were located just north of the present Geo. Thompson home (the Helen Donalds, now Spa, house on Washington Street). A flour mill had been erected where the fish hatchery is now located.

“Business was good, money was plentiful and everyone was happy.

“About the only lines of occupation were the flour mill, sawmill, and the erection of a dam. The men were paid in gold and silver, paper money being used but very little.”

When she first came here, Mrs. Fisk continues, “All freight and supplies had to be brought from Prescott or Stillwater. During the season of open water, these things were brought by boat, but after the river froze over, they had to be hauled from those places by team. Some years later, when the Northern Pacific built their railroad as far north as Wyoming, Minnesota, everyone thought that they were quite near a railroad. A bus carried the passengers to and from this station. (This was horsedrawn, of course.) Later, the Soo Line extended their road into the village, and then the general opinion was, ‘What more could we ask for.’ Then came the automobiles, and now, the aeroplanes. I wonder what next?”

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The first Fisk House (with 33 rooms) burned in 1888 without insurance … but Mr. Charles Fisk immediately rebuilt, and his place was a popular hotel for years. They owned the only buggy and cutter in the village for 10 years and they were “in great demand.” The Fisk Hotel was sold and later torn down in the 1920s.

“My mother really knew what work was,” Nell Fisk comments. Besides her own family of seven children, she had four elderly semi-invalids to care for; she did all the housekeeping including cooking and laundry for the hotel.

And Miss Fisk well remembers the tubs and washboards over which she labored. “There were the sheets, fresh for every guest, of course — and the towels and napkins.”

Miss Fisk worked at the hotel through the years it was operating. “A wide flight of stairs led from the lobby to the dining room, and it was my job to keep them scrubbed. Every meal, I set the tables in the dining hall, and served the food.”

Nell Fisk is a lifelong member of the Presbyterian church here, where she gained a reputation of being a very good singer. She was regularly called on to sing for special occasions.

One thing that stands out in her memory is the fun the youngsters had in the winter riding bobsleds down the long hill, and the thrill of making that corner between the lumber companies. “There wasn’t much traffic in those days.”

After the hotel was sold, Miss Fisk stayed to care for her parents in their old age. Her father died in 1917 at the age of 92, and her mother, who was an invalid for many years, died in 1929 at the age of 88. Alone then, Miss Fisk found employment at the St. Thomas College in St. Paul, where she worked in the dining hall for several years.

But she soon returned to her house here in St. Croix Falls where she can look back over a lifespan of great change.

••• Nell Fisk showed us a 1923 StandardPress she had saved, that contains an interview with her mother, and which, Miss Fisk points out, “shows how much change there has been.”

Her mother, then Cordelia Emery, came here with her family from Massachusetts in 1857 and “found a small

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DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

Funding for Interstate Park project approved MADISON - The State Building Commission approved funding for the Interstate State Park project on Dec. 17, with both the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund and the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund contributing financial support.

The project will create a 1,600-squarefoot multipurpose room that will be added onto the Ice Age Interpretive Center. The addition will be used to hold larger workshops for school groups, host

special events and eventually increase the winter programs that Interstate Park offers.

“I am very excited about the unanimous approval of funding for this addition, and I appreciate the Building Commission for voting in favor of this request. With budget cuts happening everywhere, it is important that we try and maintain the wildlife educational programs that we have. It is encouraging to see money from the Knowles-Nel-

son Stewardship Fund being put to good use right here in our district.”

Over 30,000 people visit the Interpretive Center each year, including approximately 5,000 schoolchildren. The project

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The children from ICAA Mina Copeland Head Start recently went on a field trip to Wayne’s Foods Plus in Webster. Ms. Chris gave the kids a tour of the Mrs. Linda, store. the cook, had the kids buy groceries for the week. Lindsay even saw her Grandma Ruby while shopping and stopped for a quick hug. - from ICAA

Woody and Amanda McBride (and baby McBride) pose for a quick photo during their Customer Appreciation Day Dec. 19, at Menagerie, an Aveda salon and Peace Coffee shop in the Dam Bistro building in St. Croix Falls. The couple is expecting their second baby in January, and Amanda will be taking a leave from hairstyling until the end of March. The shop will be open for Peace Coffee and Aveda products in the interim. – Photo by Tammi Milberg

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PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

CHURCH NEWS A fragrant offering I keep a small compost pile at the edge of my yard where I dispose of vegetable peelings and other raw food matter. The “fragrance” of my offerings draws various types of fauna: crows and blue jays, red and gray squirrels, a pair of gray foxes, raccoons, and even deer. Sometimes a skunk, with its own “eeyoo de cologne,” will make its unmistakable appearance at night to rummage through the pile.

My favorite winter outdoors Perspectives smell is wood smoke that wafts my way from a neighbor’s house.

Every season, including Christmas, has its fragrances.

Christmas is the time of year we inhale the sweet odor of balsam branches. We enjoy scented candles, cinnamon rolls, sugary cookies, and other offerings that we share with our families and friends.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites offered fragrant items to God: meat and bread offerings and incense strictly mixed with particular ingredients. The most precious offering ever made, however, was that of God’s only Son, Jesus, who willingly “loved us and gave himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.” (Ephesians 5:2) Wise men brought fragrant offerings of frankincense and myrrh to honor his royal birth. About 30 years later, just before Jesus’ death at the Passover, a woman came to him with an alabaster flask of costly, fragrant oil. She poured it on his head and feet as an act of worship.

Christians today honor Jesus, not necessarily with gold and fragrant spices, but with faithful worship and obedience. Our songs and prayers become fragrant offerings when our hearts are given over to him.

And God, through Christ in us, considers the words we share about him as a sweet-smelling aroma.

“For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life.” (2 Corinthians 2:15) As we enjoy the fragrance of wood smoke rising heavenward and as the wild critters enjoy the offerings of food scraps, may God enjoy our worship and devotion to him, given through all that we do, say, and think—especially during this Christmas season.

Lord, help us every day to be a sweet-smelling aroma to you by our thoughts of you, our words of love, and our deeds of mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com)

Sally Bair Eternal

Jesus, His name shall be called wonderful Wonderful is “way beyond the ordinary.” We say that Yellowstone Park, Niagara Falls, and the Grand Canyon are wonderful because there is nothing else like them. When David killed Goliath with his sling he did a wonderful thing, because nobody else ever did anything like it. It was wonderful that the Red Sea should open to make a highway for Israel, and wonderful that the sun should stand still for Joshua. Let us see whether Jesus was true to His name.

His BIRTH was wonderful, for no other ever occurred like it (Matt 1:18-25). It was wonderful in that He had but one human parent, and so inherited the nature of man and the nature of God. There was no room for Him at the inn, and He had to be born in a stable, and cradled in a manger, and yet angels proclaimed His birth with joy from the sky, to a few humble shepherds who were watching their flocks by night. It would have been a great condescension for Him to have been born in a palace, rocked in a golden cradle and fed with silver spoons, and to have had the angels come down and be His nurses. It was wonderful the way it happened. For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given… And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6) His CHARACTER was wonderful, for no other has ever approached it in perfection. He “…was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). It is wonderful that the greatest character ever known should have come out of such obscurity, to become the most famous in all history. “…the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, and the children crying out in the temple and saying, “Hosanna to the Son of David!”…” (Matthew 21:15) His LIFE was wonderful. Wonderful for its selflessness, its sinlessness, and its usefulness. Who else would be brave enough to ask, “Which of you convinceth me of sin?” … (John 8:46) Even His enemies could not bring against Him any graver charge than that He claimed God for His Father, and that He would do good on the Sabbath day. He was always

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Join Us In Celebration Of Our Savior’s Birth!

Christmas Eve Candlelight Services Wed., Dec. 24 - 2, 4 & 10 p.m.

Everyone Welcome!

475327 18L

Stanley W. Smith

Faye V. Russ Faye V. Russ, 72, of Webster, died on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2008, at Burnett Medical Center in Grantsburg.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec. 27, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Webster.

Visitation will be prior to services from 10 - 11 a.m.

A full obituary will be published in a upcoming publication.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

Garret Derouin

The

Pen

"The Birthday of a King"

Peace Lutheran Church, ELCA

Stanley W. Smith, 82, a resident of Webster, died Dec. 20, 2008. Memorial services will be held Saturday, Jan. 3, 2009, at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Webster. A time of gathering will be prior to services from 10 - 11 a.m.

A full obituary will be published in a upcoming publication.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements.

helping others, but not once did He do anything to help Himself.

He had the power to turn stones into bread, but went hungry forty days without doing it. (Matt 4:111) While escaping from enemies who were determined to put Him to death He saw a man who had been blind from birth, and stopped to give him sight, doing so at the risk of His life (John 9:1).

His first miracle was performed, not before a multitude to spread His own fame, but in a far-away village, to save newlyweds from humiliation. (John 2) He had compassion on the hungry multitude and wept over Jerusalem, but He never had any mercy on Preacher’s Himself. Many, O LORD my God, are Your wonderful works Which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us Cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak of them, They are more than can be numbered.

(Psalms 40:5) His TEACHING was wonderful. The common people heart Him gladly. (Mark 12:37) No man had to take a dictionary with him when he went to heart the Sermon on the Mount. He didn’t care what the scribes and Pharisees thought about it, or said about it. It is wonderful that this humble Galilean peasant, who may never have gone to school a day in His life, should have made Himself a Teacher of teachers for all time (cf. John 3:2). Your testimonies are wonderful; Therefore my soul keeps them. (Psalms 119:129) If readers have questions you would like answered in this weekly column or simply wish to know more about the Church of Christ, we would like to invite you to call 715-866-7157, visit our Web site at www.burnettcountycofc.com or stop by the church building at 7425 W. Birch St. in Webster. Sunday Bible class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 a.m. We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Office hours are Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. - noon.

On Sunday, Dec. 21, the Sunday school of Bethany Lutheran Church, under the direction of Julie Dalsveen, presented the program “The Birthday of a King.” The program included readings, dramatic performances of the prophecy, the birth of Jesus, and the visit of the Magi, and lots of special music, including performances by the Bethany bell choir, a junior/senior high choir and solo performances by Emily Muus, Dana Carlson and Elizabeth Stanford. Mary was played by Kaci Tolzman and Joseph was played by Joseph Formanek. Nicole Dalsveen was the angel Gabriel, and the Wise men were played by Amy Stanford, Trevor Stanford and Austin Tinman. - Special photos

Yellow Lake Lutheran DANBURY – The Yellow Lake Lutheran Church announces its Christmas Eve services will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4 and 7 p.m. The church is located one-half mile west of Hwy. 35 on CTH U. ••• Christmas Mass for St. Francis Xavier and St. Joseph Catholic churches FRANCONIA/SHAFER, Minn. – Mass times for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are as follows: St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Franconia/ Shafer, Minn.; Christmas Eve, 4 p.m. Mass; Christmas Day, 9 a.m.

Mass

St. Joseph Catholic Church

TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – Christmas Eve, 10 p.m. Mass; Christmas Day, 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

••• St. Peter’s Lutheran and Luck Lutheran churches LUCK – Please join St. Peter’s and Luck Lutheran churches for their Candlelight Christmas Eve service on Wednesday, Dec. 24, 10:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s. There will also be a 4 p.m. service of Holy Communion at Luck Lutheran.

On Christmas Day, Thursday, Dec. 25 at 10 a.m., there will be the Nativity of our Lord Holy Communion service at Luck Lutheran Church.

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, the Little White Church on the Hill, is located on CTH B, two miles north of Luck.

••• Bone Lake Lutheran services set LUCK – Bone Lake Lutheran Church announces Christmas Eve candelight service and Holy Communion schedule: 5 and 10:30 p.m.

••• Taylors Falls United Methodist Church TAYLORS FALLS, Minn. – A candlelight service will be held Tuesday, Dec. 23, 7 p.m., at the Taylors Falls United Methodist Church located on Angel Hill. The River Valley Brass will play starting at 6:30 p.m.

••• St. Dominic Catholic Church FREDERIC – St. Dominic Catholic Church of Frederic has announced its Christmas Mass scheduled: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 25, at 10:30 a.m.

••• Pilgrim Lutheran Church services set FREDERIC – Pilgrim Lutheran Church of Frederic announces the Christmas Eve candlelight service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

••• Frederic Evangelical Free Church FREDERIC – Frederic Evangelical Free Church will hold its Christmas Eve service at 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24.

••• Zion Lutheran and Grace Lutheran services set TRADE LAKE/WEST SWEDEN – Zion Lutheran of Trade Lake and Grace Lutheran of West Sweden announce Christmas eve service schedule: Zion Lutheran, 10 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Grace Lutheran, 3:30 p.m. on Christmas Eve. ••• Christmas Eve service at Webster Baptist WEBSTER – A Christmas Eve candlelight service will be held at First Baptist Church of Webster on Wednesday, Dec. 24, at 4:30 p.m.

••• Our Redeemer Lutheran/ Trinity Lutheran services set DANBURY/ WEBSTER – Trinity Lutheran Church of Danbury announces the Christmas Eve service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4 p.m. Our Redeemer Lutheran Church of Webster announces the Christmas Eve service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.

••• Peace Lutheran Church services set DRESSER – Peace Lutheran Church of Dresser announces the Christmas Eve candelight service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, at 2, 4 and 10 p.m.

••• Bethesda Lutheran Church DRESSER/SAND LAKE – Bethesda Lutheran Church of Dresser announces the Christmas Eve service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, children’s worship at 3:30 p.m.; worship with communion at 5 p.m. and candlelight worship with communion at 10:30 p.m.

••• Central United Methodist Church GRANTSBURG – Central United Methodist of Grantsburg announces the Christmas Eve candelight service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 7 p.m.

••• Bethany Lutheran Church GRANTSBURG – Bethany Lutheran Church of Grantsburg announces the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 4:30 p.m. – service of lessons and carols; Thursday, Dec. 25, 10 a.m. – Communion service.

••• Atlas United Methodist Church ATLAS – The United Methodist of Atlas announces the Christmas Eve service schedule: Wednesday, Dec. 24, 9 p.m.

••• Fristad Lutheran Church CENTURIA – Fristad Lutheran Church of Centuria announces the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day service schedule: Wednesday worship, Dec. 24, 4 and 9 p.m.; Thursday worship, Dec. 25, at 9:30 a.m.

••• Trade Lake Baptist Church TRADE LAKE – Trade Lake Baptist Church will hold its Swedish Julotta Service on Thursday, Dec. 25, at 6 a.m.

••• Wolf Creek United Methodist Church WOLF CREEK – Wolf Creek United Methodist Church invites everyone to a candlelight service on Wednesday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve at 4:30 p.m.

•••

OBITUARIES

Lester Henry Nuhring

Irene E. Gluheisen

Lester Henry Nuhring, age 95, formerly of Grantsburg, died at Assumption Home, Cold Spring, Minn., on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2008.

Les was born Aug. 29, 1913, in Glenwood, Minn., to Alfred Henry and Lila Ellen (Morehouse) Nuhring. He married Mary Marek on June 3, 1939, in McLeansboro, Ill. Les’ early years were spent in Grove Lake, Minn., and the state of Washington, where he excelled in school sports. As a young man, one of his occupations was as a laborer in President Roosevelt’s Civil Conservation Corp. Mary and Les raised their family of three sons in Cokato and New Richland, Minn., where Les worked as a manager for Pioneer and then United Telephone. When he retired in 1975, after 29+ years with the company, they moved to their cabin on Silver Lake in Grantsburg, where they enjoyed retirement life to the fullest for many years. He and Mary were able to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary in 2004, before she passed away. Les remained at the cabin until Oct. 2007, at which time he moved into Assumption Home, Cold Spring, Minn., to be closer to family.

Les is survived by his sons, Ronald Nuhring of Aitkin, Minn., Lyle (Constance) Nuhring of Cold Spring, Minn., and Daniel (Lisa) Nuhring of Grantsburg; six grandchildren: Jodell (Randal) Olson, Jay (Stephanie) Nuhring, Jonathan (Melinda) Nuhring, Timothy Nuhring, Bridget (Jerry) Faber and Christopher Nuhring; nine great-grandchildren: Anthony (Jessica) Olson, Abigail Olson, Liam Nuhring, Falan Nuhring, Aubrey Nuhring, Camryn Nuhring, Lauren Nuhring, McKenna Faber and Jack Faber; one greatgreat grandson, Brody Olson, who he was able to hold in a photograph depicting five generations.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; sister, Gladys Hildegard Hulda (Nuhring) Reeve; and daughter-in-law, Genelle (Michaelis) Nuhring.

Funeral services will be on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2008, at Faith Lutheran in Grantsburg. Burial will be in Wood Lake Cemetery, Wood River Township, Grantsburg.

The Wenner Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.

Irene E. Gluheisen, 71, a resident of Webster, died Dec. 16, 2008, at United Hospital in St. Paul, Minn.

Irene was born on Feb. 11, 1937, in Oakland Township, to August and Esther Holmberg. Irene married Jerry on Aug. 16, 1958, at Grace United Methodist Church in Webster. Irene worked at Nelson’s Store in Siren and Door Electric. She enjoyed cooking, making crafts, ice fishing and salmon fishing. She loved being around her family and grandchildren, and took time for picnics and camping.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Albert and George; sisters, Marie and Alice; and grandson, Conor.

She is survived by her husband; children, Karen (Gary) Knafla; Laura (Mike) McLaughlin, Linda (Brad) Spafford, Jeff (Jeanann) Gluheisen; brother, Lloyd Holmberg; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Memorial services were held Saturday, Dec. 20, at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, with Pastor Cindy Glocke officiating.

The Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home, Webster, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Marilyn Salmon Marilyn Salmon died Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008, at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Marilyn was preceded in death by husband, Gregory; and infant sons, Hudson and Ben; sons, Brian and Steven.

Marilyn is survived by sons, Brad and David; daughter, Carla; grandchildren, Teresa, Douglas, Shannon, Emily, Ashley, Jonathon, Nickolas, James and Josh; great-grandchildren, Michael, Audrey, Anna and Joey.

There will not be a funeral. A family memorial is pending at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Thelma Geneva Petersen Thelma Geneva Petersen, 95, formerly of Centuria, died Dec. 14, 2008, at St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

She was born March 17, 1913, in Yellow Medicine County, Minn.

She was baptized at Clarkfield Lutheran Church in Clarkfield, Minn. When she was 7 years old, she moved with her parents and sister, Mildred, to rural Centuria. She was confirmed in the Lutheran faith at the North Valley Lutheran Church.

In 1934, she was united in marriage to Russell Petersen. Russ and Thelma lived their married life in rural Centuria in the North Valley area. They were both longtime employees of the Duncan Yo-Yo factory in Luck.

Thelma enjoyed crocheting and made many beautiful doilies, Easter baskets and snowflakes for family and friends. She loved cats and often had one as a companion in her home.

Thelma entered the Good Samaritan Home in St. Croix Falls in October of 2002 after suffering a stroke.

She remained a resident there until her death.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Anfin and Hannah Richardson; husband, Russell Petersen; sister, Mildred Kruse; and brother-in-law, John Kruse.

She is survived by her nieces, nephews, cousins, special friend Bud Hendrickson and other friends.

Funeral services were held at the North Valley Lutheran Church on Thursday, Dec. 18, with Pastor Maggie Isaacson officiating. Interment was at the Cushing Cemetery in Cushing.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Luck was entrusted with arrangements.

David & John Edling Funeral Home Traditional and Cremation Services

Generations of Trusted Family Funeral Service

715-483-3141

Serving Our Community Since 1903

201 N. Adams Street

Raymond Rowe

In Memory of

Bruce Rowe

Traditional Services Cremation Services Preplanning All Types Of Services, Monument Sales Now Personalizing Your Caskets, Vaults & Monuments

ROWE FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES 2 Convenient Locations: Luck and Frederic

715-472-2444 or 715-327-4475 www.rowefh.com

St. Croix Falls

469949 7Ltfc

Christmas services

446161 20Ltfc

CHURCH

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

Daniel J. Boyer It’s been 1 year since you have received your wings; enjoying your loving wife, Peggy.

We miss you and love you!

475384 18Lp

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

CHURCH NEWS Set boundaries before leaving for family holidays Q: How can parents preserve their own peace of mind and maintain harmony during car trips and family holidays?

DR. DOBSON: Sometimes it helps to redefine the boundaries at the beginning of your time together. Let the children know exactly what you’re doing and what’s expected of them. If they still misbehave, respond with good, loving discipline right from the start.

No parent wants to be an ogre on vacation, but it helps to show a little firmness at the outset that can make the rest of the time together fun for the entire family.

••• Q: We have always laughed a lot in our family, sometimes at each other. Is that good or bad?

DR. DOBSON: It is healthy to be able to laugh together in a family. We ought to be able to tease and joke with each other without having to worry about getting an angry overreaction in response. But when the laughter is always at the expense of the most vulnerable member of the family, it can be destructive.

Even innocent humor is painful when it’s the same child who is the object of ridicule. Unfortunately, that’s the way it often happens. When one youngster has an embarrassing characteristic, such as bed-wetting, thumb sucking, or stuttering, the other members of the family should be encouraged to tread very softly on the exposed nerves thereabouts. And a child should never be ridiculed for his or her size, whether he’s a

small boy or a large girl.

This is the guiding principle: It’s wise not to tease a child about the features that he or she is also defending outside the home. If that youngster is hearing about some obvious flaw all day long, he or she certainly doesn’t need more flak from the family. And when that child asks for a joke to end, the request should be honored.

Being the butt of everyone’s ridicule is a formula for lifelong resentment, and there’s just nothing funny about that happening.

••• Q: My children love to do things for themselves, but they make such messes that it’s easier for me to do things for them. I just don’t have the patience to see them fumble with stuff. Do you think I’m wrong to step in and do things for them?

DR. DOBSON: I think you are wrong, even though I understand how you feel. I heard a story about a mother who was sick in bed with the flu. Her darling daughter wanted so much to be a good nurse. She fluffed the pillows and brought a magazine to read.

And then she even showed up with a surprise cup of tea.

“Why, you’re such a sweetheart,” the mother said as she drank the tea. “I didn’t know you even knew how to make tea.”

Dr. James

Dobson Focus on the Family

“Oh, yes,” the little girl replied. “I learned by watching you. I put the tea leaves in the pan and then I put in the water, and I boiled it and then I strained it into a cup. But I couldn’t find a strainer, so I used the fly swatter instead.”

“You what?” the mother screamed.

And the little girl said, “Oh, don’t worry, Mom, I didn’t use the new fly swatter. I used the old one.”

Well, when kids try their hardest and they get it all wrong in spite of themselves, what’s a parent to do?

What mothers and fathers often do is prevent their children from carrying any responsibility that could result in a mess or a mistake. It’s just easier to do everything for them than to clean up afterwards. But, I urge parents not to fall into that trap.

Your child needs her mistakes. That’s how she learns. So, go along with the game every now and then – even if the tea you drink tastes a little strange.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman of the board of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995 (www.family.org). Questions and answers are excerpted from “Solid Answers” and “Bringing Up Boys,” both published by Tyndale House.

COPYRIGHT 2008 JAMES DOBSON INC., DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL PRESS SYNDICATE1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, Mo. 64106; 816-581-7500.

Brought to you by:

First Baptist Church Webster

Grantsburg bell choir performs "Silent Night" Members of the Grantsburg hand bell choir rang “Silent Night” at Bethany Lutheran Church of Grantsburg on Sunday, Dec. 14. The unique version of the traditional Christmas song was enjoyed by those who braved the ice and snow getting to church.

The choir is composed of students of Grantsburg High School, who perform a variety of songs from traditional to pop. Director Angela Brahm said the choir is available for performances. For more information call 715-463-3654, ext. 115. - Photo by Mike Java

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”

CARLSON-ROWE FUNERAL HOME

Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4475

MEDICINE SHOPPE 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.

CUSHING CUSHING COOPERATIVE SOCIETY Feed Mill - Grain Dept.

Cushing, Wis. 715-648-5215

SIREN OLSEN & SON

Your Full-Service Drugstore Siren, Wis. Phone 715-349-2221

WEBSTER CASHCO BUILDING SUPPLIES Complete Lumber & Building Supplies Phone 715-866-4238 Hwy. 35 N. Webster, Wis. Tom & Becky O’Brien, Owners

HOPKINS SAND & GRAVEL, INC. Sand, Gravel, Ready-Mix, Concrete, Black Dirt, Dozer Work, Landscaping & Septic Tanks Installed

ALPHA

LUCK

BASS LAKE LUMBER

VAN METER’S MEATS

• 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, Mgr. Mark Knoepke, Feed Mill Mgr. for Feed, Propane & Fertilizer Alpha, Wis.

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

Hwy. 35 North Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-4157 M.P.R.S. #03059

SWEDBERG-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME

Churches 11/08

FREDERIC

Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-7131

BRUCE’S AUTO REPAIR & TOWING

Wrecker - Flatbed Air Conditioning & Computerized Car Service Cold Weather Starts Webster, Wis. 715-866-4100 Days 715-866-8364 Eves.

Any area business wishing to help sponsor the church listings should contact the Leader at 715-327-4236.

DECEMBER 23, 2008 - 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.

LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastors Julie Brenden & Nanette Hagen Hinck Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m.; Sunday School 10:30 a.m.

LUCK LUTHERAN

510 Foster Ave. E.; Mark E. Hall, Pastor Office 715-472-2605; Home 715-472-8424 Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

MILLTOWN LUTHERAN

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

113 W. Main St.. W., Phone 715-825-2453 Pastor Danny G. Wheeler 9 a.m. Prayer & Praise Service 9:30 a.m. Sunday School 10:40 a.m. Worship Service

WORD OF LIFE CHURCH

NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

Meeting in homes. Elders: Cliff Bjork, Jon Zens, 483-1357 and 755-3048 Sun. Fellowship - 10 a.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

NEW WINE CHURCH - CENTURIA 309 5th Street, 715-640-1450 Pastors Randy and Pam Stone Sunday Service at 10 a.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 Sunday Worship - 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School - 9:30 a.m.

BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws

Pastor Mark Richardson & Pastor Rob Lubben 1947 110th Ave., Dresser, 715-755-2562 Sun. Contemp. Wor. 8:15 a.m.; Folk & Gospel Wor., Adult Ed & Sun. Schl. 9:30; Trad. Wor. 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. 9 a.m.; Adult Bible Study 9:15 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 Larry Juergenson - 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 Arthur Bruning, 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

Pastors Julie Brenden & Nanette Hagen Hinck; 648-5323 or 648-5324 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:15 a.m.

FRISTAD LUTHERAN - CENTURIA

Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:30 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER

Pastor John Siedschlag, Phone 866-5406; Church Phone 866-7191 Sun. Schl. - 8:30 a.m; Sun. Wors. - 9:30 a.m.; Adult Bible Study 11:00 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA)

2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 E-mail: peace@centurytel.net Pastor Wayne Deloach, Intern Bob Sinclair Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:40 a.m.; Confirmation Wed. 6 p.m.; HS Youth Wed. 6 p.m.

PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA) Pastor Catherine Burnette 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 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.

(Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter, 327-8608 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st & 3rd Sun.

LAKESIDE COMMUNITY LUTH. - ELCA

CTH H, 1/2 mi. N. of CTH A & H on H Church Off. 715-635-7791Roger Pittman, Pastor Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 10 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sundays

METHODIST

METHODIST

ATLAS UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST - GRANTSBURG Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Worship - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10:30 a.m.

DANBURY UNITED METHODIST

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

GRACE UNITED - WEBSTER

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. Dennis M. Mullen, 715-327-8119 Sat.: 4:30 p.m. St. Dominic; Sun.: 8:30 a.m. Immaculate Conception; 10:30 a.m. St. Dominic Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times

ST. ANNE PARISH

Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 139 Church Hill Rd., Somerset Mass Sun. 8:30 a.m.; Wed. 9 a.m.

Sacrament of Penance Sun. 8 a.m.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER

Pastor Father Daniel Bodin, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9 a.m.

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN LCMS, DANBURY

Pastor John Siedschlag Home 715-866-5405; Church 715-866-7191 Sunday Worship Service - 8 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN

LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST McKINLEY UNITED METHODIST

ASSEMBLY

Tom Cook, Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

Pastor Bruce Stunkard Sun. Wor. 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

Potluck dinner 1st Sunday

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST

Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship Service - 10 a.m.

Sun. School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available

Pastor Arveda “Freddie” Kirk, 327-4436 Sun. Worship - 10 a.m.; Child care available during service 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

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN OSCEOLA

Pastor Dave Guertin 7686 Lofty Pines Drive, Siren, 715-349-5601 Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

Pastors Mike & Linda Rozumalski 1 mi. west of Luck on N, 2478 170th St., Luck Worship - 9:30 a.m.; Fellowship after service.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN

1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, Pastor Ray Reinholtzen, Douglas Olson and Roger Kampstra Services begin at 9:30 a.m.

Communion 1st & 3rd Sun.

ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (AALC)

Pastor Larry Juergensen - 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

Pastor Scott Sagel, 715-689-2541 Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 10:30 p.m.; Elevator provided, welcome

SIREN COVENANT

UNITED COVENANT - CLEAR LAKE

Pastor Gary Tonn Praise Time 8 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:20 a.m.

CATHOLIC

CATHOLIC

ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-247-3310 255 St. Hwy. 35, East Farmington Mass Friday 9 a.m.; Sacrament of Penance Sat. 3:30 p.m.

CHURCH OF ST. JOSEPH

Pastor - Father 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

Pastor Larry Hendry Worship - 11 a.m.; Sun. School - 11 a.m.

Holy Communion - 1st & 3rd Sunday

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.

ZION LUTHERAN - TRADE LAKE

SACRED HEARTS OF JESUS & MARY

ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE

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

1289 160th St. (Hwy. 65), St. Croix Falls Phone - 715-472-2258 Bible Study - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m.

WESLEYAN WOODLAND WESLEYAN

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

CALVARY COVENANT - ALPHA

WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH OF CHRIST

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

Pastor Marty Nolet Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour

Hwy. 70 East, 689-2271 Pastor: Carl Heidel Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

Communion -Every Sunday

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.

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

LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL

ASSEMBLY

CENTURIA ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Don Wiltshire, 715-640-6400 Centuria - Phone 715-646-2172 Sunday Service: 10 a.m.

OSCEOLA COMMUNITY CHURCH

SIREN UNITED METHODIST

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

TRADE LAKE BAPTIST

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.

Holytrinity@wisconsinumc.org 1606 165th Ave., Centuria Paul Foulke, Pastor, 715-485-3363 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:15 a.m.

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

TRINITY LUTHERAN - ELCA

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.

CHURCH OF CHRIST - WEBSTER

EVANGELICAL

140 Madison St. South, St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark K. Schoen Sun. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun.School - 10:30 a.m.

LIVING HOPE CHURCH

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. LUKE UNITED - FREDERIC

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN (Missouri Synod)

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.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

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.

1614 CTH, North Luck; Mark E. Hall, Pastor Office Phone 472-2605 Dial-A-Devotion 472-2345 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST

YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC

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. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LUCK

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA

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

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

ST. DOMINIC - FREDERIC & IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG CATHOLIC MASS SCHED.

350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Wor. - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.

ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod)

ELCA - 501 Hwy. 35, 646-2357 Mel Rau, Pastor Sunday Worship & Holy Communion - 9:30 a.m.; Sunday School - 10:40 a.m.

GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN

PRESBYTERIAN

oumc@centurytel.net 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Pastor Alan J. Hagstrom, 715-294-3195 Adult Class - 9 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st Sunday

Rev. Rexford D. Brandt 447 180th St., Osceola, 715-294-2936 Sun. Wor. 8:00 & 10:30 a.m.; Sun. School 9:15 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month

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

PRESBYTERIAN

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.

Pastor Larry Mederich, 715-294-4332 Mtg. @ Osceola Elementary School Sun. Service - 9:45 a.m.

SIREN ASSEMBLY OF GOD

EVANGELICAL

TRADE RIVER EVAN. FREE

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA)

Pastor Bruce Tanner, 715-268-2176 942 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible study 7 p.m.

FREDERIC EVAN. FREE CHURCH

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 Gary Merchant, 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 Sun.: 8:15 a.m. Adult Sun. Schl.; 8:30 a.m.

Sun. Schl. for Pre-K to Sr. High; 10 a.m.

Morning Worship.

FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN

Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Wor. 11 a.m., 7 p.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - OSCEOLA

Pastor Dr. Kent Haralson; 715-294-2572 Brodie Schock, Youth & Outreach 722 Seminole Ave., Osceola Doc_Haralson@Centurytel.net Sun.: Praise & Worship Serv. 9 am., Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m., Children’s Sun. Schl. 10:45 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - TAYLORS FALLS, MN

Loc. across from elemen. schl. 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.

FIRST BAPTIST - WEBSTER

Church Phone 715-866-4111; Rev. Merrill Olson - Pastor Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m (Nursery Provided)

FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN

Pastor Kevin Millen Associate Pastor Jim Carmon Sunday School - (all ages) - 9:30 a.m.

Church Serv. - 10:45 a.m.

WESLEYAN

Dairyland - Rev. Jack Martiny 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

CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX

523 1st St., Clayton 715-948-2493 Fr. Christopher Wojcik, Pastor Sat. Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sun. Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago Lakes, MN Fr. Robert McMeekin, pastor 715-220-5111/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 COM\MUNITY

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.

MERCY FELLOWSHIP

26390 Lakeland Ave., Webster (Hwy. 35 across from Wayne’s Foods & DNR) Pastor Doug Quenzer, 715-866-7006 Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m.

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Meets at Dresser Elem. School, Dresser Pastor Michael Brand, 715-417-2468 Sun. Schl. 8:45 a.m.; Adult Class 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 9:45 a.m.; Nursery available

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 23, 2008

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NEW YORK LIFE

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INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION • Frederic, 715-327-4236 • Siren, 715-349-2560

BEDTIME STORIES

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Frederic, WI 54837

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Mark D. Biller Specializing In Criminal, Traffic and OWI

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Cushing, Wis. 715-648-5223

HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE HOLIDAY!

Wed., Dec. 24

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DECEMBER 23, 2008 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Students of the Week GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

Zach Kuechenmeister has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Mande and Nick Kuechenmeister. Zach is extremely respectful, friendly, personable, conscientious, has an excellent work ethic and is a good role model for others. He is involved in FFA, football, basketball and baseball. Zach enjoys hunting, fishing, sports and farming. He plans to go into the agriculture business.

Robert Kirk has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. He is a sophomore and the son of Sharon and Ezra Kirk.

Robert is quiet, reserved and doesn’t complain or criticize. He is involved in football, basketball and track. Robert enjoys lifting weights, hanging with friends at movies, and sports. His future plans include going to college to be a vet or a sports career if available.

Katelyn Byers has been chosen Grantsburg Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in second grade and the daughter of Miranda and Joe Byers. Katelyn is a great helper to all students and her teacher. She always tries her best and pushes herself to be better. Katelyn is very kind to everyone in her class and on the playground. She enjoys art, math and reading in school and drawing, arts and crafts, and making cards outside of school.

Megan Moore has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Cassie and Tom Moore. Megan is thorough in her work, willing to help others and polite. She is involved in FCCLA, FFA, AODA, 4-H and volleyball.

Megan enjoys reading, texting and listening to music. Her future plans are to attend college and be successful.

Zac Lindberg has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Jon and Amy Lindberg. Zac is full of energy and puts a ton of effort into his work. He is great at sketching.

Zac is involved in baseball and helps with farming and working on cars. In his spare time he enjoys mudding with his big trucks, football, baseball, fishing and snowmobiling.

Clay Carney has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in third grade and the son of Jay and Rachel Carney. Math is Clay’s favorite subject, along with phy ed.

Clay really enjoys sports, especially baseball. He has a collection of baseball cards and thinks that he would like to become a professional baseball player. Clay also enjoys working on cars with his dad and has a collection of miniature cars. Clay is good at kickball.

Hunter Wickstrom has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Bruce and DeeAnna Wickstrom. Hunter’s attitude is both mature and positive.

His favorite color is orange, favorite school subject is math, favorite number is 24 and he would like to attend college in the future.

Nathaniel Reynolds has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. He is the grandson of Rose Churchill, and is currently a senior. Nathaniel has a positive attitude and persistence in finishing up his education. He is very humorous and adds a sense of calmness and maturity to the classroom. In his spare time Nathaniel enjoys going to the gym, mixed martial arts and boxing.

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INTER-COUNTY

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Johnathan Petherbridge has been chosen St. Croix Falls Middle School’s student of the week.

He is in fifth grade and the son of Julie and Mike Petherbridge.

Johnathan lives on an organic farm and has 43 milk cows, three horses and three cats. His favorite pastimes are football, basketball, hunting, bowling and watching the Packers. Johnathan is involved in wrestling and flag football. Science is his favorite subject. John is an extremely responsible student.

WEBSTER

SIREN

Derek Highstrom has been chosen Siren Elementary School’s student of the week. He is the son of Rhonda and Craig Highstrom.

Derek is a friend to everyone and tries to help other students solve their problems. He finishes all of his work and adds a lot to discussions, especially in reading and science.

Derek enjoys drawing, math and science experiments. He helps the teacher clean up and volunteers for extra jobs. He is involved in 4-H.

David Ohnstad has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a freshman and the son of Dan and Marie Ohnstad. David is intelligent, hardworking, a high achiever with a positive attitude.

He is involved in basketball, soccer, football, church, link group and 7 club. David enjoys basketball, soccer, football, fishing, hunting, playing games and being outdoors. He plans to go to college in the future.

ST. CROIX FALLS

LUCK

McKenna Delany has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in first grade and the daughter of James and Tamara Delany. McKenna has a third-grade brother, Michael. She is a very eager learner and a helpful friend. Her favorite part of school is gym class. When McKenna is at home, she likes to play horses.

Jacob Glover has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. He is in eighth grade and the son of Shari and Jon Glover. Jacob’s favorite class is science and FACE. He likes to participate in basketball at this time of year. Jacob is the type of person who finds ways to help people. He is respectful, honest and trustworthy. Jacob has a great sense of humor and is fun to be around.

Jona Matrious has been chosen Webster Elementary School’s student of the week. She is in kindergarten and the daughter of Christina Bearheart and Karl Matrious. Jona is very bright, eagerly learns new things and always has a smile on her face.

She is very kind and caring towards her classmates and always does her very best. Jona loves animals and playing with her cat and dog.

Katrina Matrious-Staples has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. She is in sixth grade and the daughter of Debbie Matrious. Katrina is an excellent student. She has great artistic ability. Katrina is a nice person with a great personality. She is liked by all. Katrina enjoys playing with her two cats and dog. She admires her mom and her grandma Nancy.

Samantha Kopecky has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Amy and James Kopecky. Samantha is always on top of her work in class and does very well in band.

Samantha gets along with everyone and has a great attitude. She is involved in her church group and softball. Samantha enjoys playing with her dog and cooking.

She plans to go to college and become a dietitian.

UNITY

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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

Caleb Hacker has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. He is in seventh grade and the son of Brad and Mary Jo Hacker. Caleb is a super student who is hardworking and shows kindness and a sense of humor.

He is friendly and has a positive attitude. Caleb is respectful of others and has very good study habits.

Jared Tunheim has been chosen Unity High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Kim and Tracy Tunheim. Jared is always positive in the classroom. He is involved in football and enjoys snowmobiling. His future plans are to go to UW-Stout.

The greatest influence in his life is his brother.

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2008

DECEMBER WED.-FRI./24-26 Amery

• Senior center closed for Christmas.

WEDNESDAY/24 Frederic

Coming events

JANUARY THURSDAY/1 Amery

• Senior center closed for New Year’s Day.

Frederic

• Potluck New Year dinner at the senior center.

FRIDAY/2

• Pokeno at the senior center at 1 p.m.

THURSDAY/25

Frederic

• Pokeno: note change to 12:30 p.m., due to monthly meeting.

Amery

• Christmas Day dinner at senior center, 1 p.m., 715-268-6605.

SATURDAY/3

Frederic

Frederic

• No cards at the senior center.

• Frederic High School choir reunion concert, fundraiser for choir trip to Disney World, 7 p.m., 327-4223, ext. 133, heineg@frederic.k12.wi.us.

• Potluck and birthdays fo the month, at the senior center, noon, games enjoyed after dinner.

FRI.-SUN./26-28 St. Croix Falls

• “A Christmas Story,” at Festival Theatre. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, www.festivaltheatre.org.

FRIDAY/26

MONDAY/5

Frederic

Frederic

• Pokeno at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

SATURDAY/27

TUESDAY/6

Frederic

Clam Falls

• Food and fellowship at the senior center at noon. Games to follow.

• Clam Falls coffee hour at Clam Falls Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.

MONDAY/29

Cushing

Frederic

• Annual meeting of the Cushing Cooperative Society at First Lutheran Church, 1 p.m.

• Support group for people with bipolar disorder and depression at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 7:30 p.m. Call 715-327-4436 for more info.

• Spades at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Frederic Food Shelf new days during holidays, 2-6 p.m. Same time and place.

Osceola

• Free sleep apnea seminar at the medical center, 6:30-8 p.m., 715-294-4936.

Taylors Falls, Minn.

• Catholicism 101 Class begins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 10-week study, 6:308:30 p.m., 651-465-7345.

TUESDAY/30 Amery

WEDNESDAY/7

Luck

• Blood pressure screening at Bremer Bank, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Pokeno at the senior center, 1 p.m.

Frederic

• Stamping & scrapbooking at senior center, 6 p.m., 715-268-6605.

• Take off pounds sensibly, at senior center, 5:30 p.m., 715-472-2341.

St. Croix Falls

Siren

• Good Samaritan Society - St. Croix Valley Auxiliary meeting, 1:30 p.m. in the community room at the center, 715-483-2720.

WEDNESDAY/31

• Catholicism 101 Class begins at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 10-week study, 9:3011:30 a.m., 651-465-7345.

• Girls alumni basketball game at the high school, 715-349-2277, ext. 310, karsten@siren.k12.wi.us.

Taylors Falls, Minn.

Amery

THURSDAY/8

• Senior center closing at 3 p.m.

Frederic

Frederic

• Pokeno at the senior center at 1 p.m.

St. Croix Falls

• Potluck dinner and games at the senior center, 6 p.m., 715-483-3466.

Popular Christmas colors shine in the waning light of yet another cold day in December. – Photo by Marty Seeger

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

Final weekend for "A Christmas Story" at Festival Theatre ST. CROIX FALLS – The now-legendary story of a boy who is desperate for a “legendary, official Red Ryder” air rifle is coming to the end of its run as the 2008 holiday show at St. Croix Festival Theatre in downtown St. Croix Falls. The final three performances of “A Christmas Story,” by Jean Shepherd, have been scheduled to accommodate those who’ve been too busy preparing for the holidays to actually sit down and enjoy themselves, and will take place Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 26 through 28. This is the very first time that Festival Theatre has extended the season past Dec. 25.

“Audiences have been laughing their heads off,” said stage manager Katie Novalany. “And attendance has been terrific; I think it is the second or third best selling show in Festival’s history!”

In fact, as the show entered the final weekend, it had just taken over the No. 2 spot in attendance records, second only to the 2006 production of “Hans Brinker or the Silver Skates.” Clearly the combination of a fun, family-friendly comedy and a story that has become nearly a cult phenomenon as a film make “A Christmas Story” irresistible.

Leading the cast are four professional actors who have also worked tirelessly as mentors and role models for the fourteen youths who have been double-cast in seven roles. Their performances shine and audiences routinely applaud the teacher fantasy scenes, the arrival of the leg lamp, and the Nutcracker ballet. Jeff Broitman’s performance as adult Ralph is amazing in its sheer scope, but he has also charmed audiences with a face that can change from boyish imp to tender concern in the bat of an eye. Each time The Old Man escapes the jaws of the Bumpus hounds or does battle with the furnace, Joe Wiener demonstrates his amazing comic timing. In the role of Ralphie’s mother, Leigha Horton delights with such strong physical acting you’d swear she had cooked meat loaf and red cabbage her whole

The fabulous foursome who lead the cast of “A Christmas Story” are (front) Joe Wiener and Leigha Horton and (back) Amanda Schnabel and Jeff Broitman. life. Finally, Amanda Schnabel has the fun of playing Miss Shields, the earnest young classroom teacher with a twist of Ralphie’s imagination to boot.

Humorist, writer, radio personality, and performer Jean Shepherd was prolific in his storytelling, much of which chronicled his own Indiana childhood. Most of Shepherd’s stories were first heard during his radio broadcast years (1948-1977), but many stories were later assembled for print publication. The semiautobiographical tale of the Red Ryder Christmas appeared within the collection “In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash” in 1966 and was the basis for Shepherd’s screenplay for “A Christmas Story,” which was released in 1983, soon becoming a holiday classic film. In the late ‘90s, playwright Philip Grecian was recruited to create a stage adaptation – no small feat.

“In order to share the slice of life that Shep (Jean Shepherd) originally shared through storytelling and his film, the playwright created dozens of scenes that chronicle about five weeks in the world of young Ralphie Parker,” said the play’s director, Danette Olsen.

“The memories function like flashbacks ricocheting on the stage between the Parker home and remembered settings, both real and fantasy. We have 18 actors, a stage manager who needs to function like an octopus, a versatile set, a five-page listing of props, vivid sound cues, and racks of costumes to make it all happen in a two-hour romp.”

“A Christmas Story” concludes Festival Theatre’s 19th theater series, and the production team includes Mary Martin (Costume Design), Marilyn Mays (Props Master), Justin Swanson (Sound Design), and Amy Klein (Education Director). The show is sponsored by St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Tickets for “A Christmas Story” are $12.50 for youth and $25.00 for adults, with final performances at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 26 and 27, and the closing matinee on Sunday, Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. For additional information see the theater’s Web site at festivaltheatre.org or call 715483-3387. - submitted