Leader|dec 23|2009

W E D N E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 3 , 2 0 0 9 • V O L U M E 7 7 • N O . 1 8 • 2 S E C T I O N S • S E C T I O N A

Leader INTER-COUNTY

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Christmas memories See CURRENTS

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

Serving Northwest Wisconsin Music and mistletoe Whispering Pines zoning goes back to committee

$1

Sale to development group is pending as county supervisors hear options for Spirit Lake property PAGE 11

Bus crash civil trial coming to Polk County PAGE 3

History in the remaking CURRENTS FEATURE

Early copy, please The deadline for ad and copy for our Dec. 29 issue will be Monday, Dec. 28, at 9 a.m. - Editor

SPORTS

Former deputy faces charges of child sexual abuse

Clara Leonard and Whitney Oachs smile as they show the mistletoe during a performance by the Swinging Sisters seventh- and eighth-grade swing choir of the classic holiday song “Have A Holly Jolly Christmas.”

The group performed for parents and guests at the Grantsburg Middle School Christmas concert held in the high school auditorium on Dec. 14.

- Photo by Priscilla Bauer

PAGE 3

Polk board contests emerge Amery primary has no candidates for six seats PAGE 4

Appeals court judge dismisses lawsuit against township

Service blesses adoptions Five families in one church have recently adopted 11 children from four different nations

by Sherill Summer WEBSTER - Harm and Lynda Weber had something extra to be thankful for Thanksgiving Day. They finally had their three adopted children from Haiti home with them in Webster. For the Webers, the day the children came home was three

years in the making because it took that long to sort through Haitian bureaucracy and get the needed paperwork complete so the children could join their adopted parents.

The Webers heartfully thanked the congregation of their church, First Baptist Church in Webster, for all their prayers during the painful ups and downs of their adoption experience. Many in the church personally understood the ups and downs of adopting children from another country because they have their own stories from their own adoptions.

See Adoptions, page 27

Ayers vows to continue fight PAGE 12

Molly’s on her way to the Winter Games!

See front page Sports Inside this section

Burnett Airport looks to future following major project Recent expansion was years in the making PAGE 10

A total of 11 children from four different nations sang a couple of songs for the First Baptist congregation in Webster. On Sunday, Dec. 13, there was a special dedication ceremony for all the recently adopted children. - Special photo

The Inter-County Leader is a cooperative-owned newspaper

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Leader

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

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

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

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The Inter-County Leader [ISS No. 87509091] is published weekly. Subscription prices are $34/yr. in Polk and Burnett counties; $38/yr. in Barron, Chisago, Washburn, St. Croix counties; $41/yr. anywhere in the United States $23/yr. for servicemen or women; $23/yr. for students or schools (9 months). Payment is needed before we can start the subscription. No refunds on subscriptions. Persons may subscribe online at www.the-leader.net, write us at Inter-County Leader, Box 490, Frederic, WI 54837, or stop by one of our three offices.

Board of directors Vivian Byl, chair Charles Johnson Merlin Johnson Janet Oachs Carolyn Wedin

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The Inter-County Leader is a qualified newspaper for the publication of legal notices, meeting the requirements as set forth in Chapter 985.03 of the Wisconsin Statutes. Every government official or board that handles public money should publish at regular intervals an accounting of it, showing where and how each dollar is spent.

We hold this to be a fundamental principle of democratic government. Publisher reserves right to reject any advertisement or news release or letter of opinion at any time.

Workers chipped away at ice that had formed around the cab of a trail groomer last Thursday morning. Hay had been placed around the cab in hopes of preventing freezing. The groomer, which stands more than 9 feet tall, went through ice in a bog east of Siren on Tuesday morning, Dec. 15. Anderson Towing of Grantsburg helped recover the 8-ton tractor. - Photo by Gary King

Trail groomer recovered from icy swamp It took several tries over four days to free 8-ton tractor

by Gary King SIREN - It took patience, ingenuity and horsepower to recover an 8-ton tractor used to groom Burnett County’s snowmobile trails from the bottom of an icy swamp last week.

“It was a learning experience,” said Danny Carlson, president of the Burnett County Trails Association. “I plan to make the story of how we recovered it a part of my annual report to the state snowmobile association next fall.”

That’s a PowerPoint presentation that will likely keep the interest of several hundred audience members, as the recovery project was anything but a simple towing job.

The groomer was abandoned by driver John Madden after it began to slowly sink through the ice in a bog on private property about 600 feet from CTH B, a mile east of Siren, on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at about 8:30 a.m.

Efforts to tow it out that afternoon caused it to sink further into the bog and it was obvious more help was needed.

Anderson Towing Company of Grantsburg was summoned to the scene on Wednesday but the logistics of pulling a tractor that size out of ice proved challenging and steel cables snapped as ice - and the inability to get a good angle - kept the groomer from budging and it actually sank deeper into the swamp.

Efforts continued Thursday morning and Carlson ended up making a trip to the Twin Cities to get heavier steel cable.

On Friday, through a combination of thicker steel cables, a chain saw to break up the ice, a leverage system using cables and eventually scuba gear to allow a worker to go underwater to hook a cable onto the front of the groomer, real progress was made.

“We decided we could sacrifice the cab,” Carlson said. “We flipped it over backwards and onto its top and then got it back upright on its tracks.”

It was back on solid ground by about 6:30 p.m., Friday.

The groomer, which is worth an estimated $70,000 new and had $56,000 worth of snow tracks on it, was insured, said Carlson. It’s one of three groomers used in Burnett County. Carlson, who is also on the snowmobile trail maintenance committee in Polk County, has already lined up a replacement groomer. With a good base of snow and more expected later this week, three are going to be needed soon, he said.

Carlson said the snow trail route across the bog has already been changed.

“We won’t be putting a trail there again,” he said.

On Tuesday of last week most of the trail groomer could still be seen but the weight of the tractor, combined with efforts to pull it out of the swamp, caused it to sink deeper. Shots below show progress being made on Friday. Workers eventually flipped the groomer backwards to get it up onto solid ice. - Special photos

LEFT: Anderson Towing used this truck with towing winch to help pull the groomer out. - Photo by Gary King

A call for writers and artists A new feature in 2010 will be the Artspage, a presentation of the best works we can gather from the two-county area and beyond. We will accept continuous submissions of photography, drawings, any images that can be reproduced in a newspaper, writings and short prose and poetry, with a mind toward appropriateness for this publication. Humorous, creative, satirical, imaginative and images that challenge, provoke and enlighten are sought. Give us your best and we’ll do the rest.

Depending on the flow of submissions, this can be anywhere from a monthly to a weekly feature. We will need a healthy

dose of submissions, so get out your pencils and pens, cameras and computers, brushes and whatever accoutrements you require to create your art, and get busy, please. This space could also be used for arts news, previews and reviews of arts and literary events, or profiles of/interviews with writers and artists. Only you can ensure the success of this experiment.

Send images in jpeg form, short poetry, prose and bio in the body of an e-mail, to: winterboo@centurytel.net or the-leader@centurytel.net.

Briefly It’s definitely shaping up to be a white Christmas this year with snow on the ground and a winter storm forecast for Christmas Eve Day and Christmas Day. On the bright side, more daylight is filtering down to us with the passing of Dec. 21, the “shortest day of the year.”

••• WEBSTER/FREDERIC - The fourth-annual Community Wellness Challenge is under way at Curves of Webster and Frederic at no cost to the participants. Persons wanting to get fit in 2010 are encouarged to sign up during the week of Jan. 4 by calling 715-866-8018 or 715-327-8588. - with submitted information ••• FREDERIC - Auditions for Frederic High School’s production of “Bye, Bye Birdie” will be held Thursday, Jan. 7, from 6 p.m. until finished, at the Birch Street Elementary School. For audition material and more information, contact Kathy Lexen at 715-3274223 or lexenk@frederic.k12.us. - with submitted information •••

BALSAM LAKE - The local Red Cross office will be offering a Baby-sitting Training Course on Saturday, Jan. 9 in its Balsam Lake office. This course is recommended for youth ages 10-15. Class time will be 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Each participant will receive the newly-revised handbook, an emergency reference guide and a CD which includes a printable activity booklet with games, crafts, songs and recipes, a resume template and more. Preregistration is required. Call 715-485-3025 for more information. - from Red Cross ••• FREDERIC St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Frederic will be holding Christmas Eve services at 7:30 p.m. and Christmas Day services at 10:30 a.m. The public is invited to attend. - with submitted information

Two services pending LUCK - Funeral services are pending for James Peterson of Luck, who died Monday, Dec. 21, and for Dennis Brinkman of Luck, who died Dec. 20.

Persons may check the Rowe Funeral Home’s Web site at www.rowefh.com or www.wicremationcenter.com for updated information or call 715-472-2444.

Recall election today See our Web site for results

LUCK — Luck’s recall election to recall two village trustees is being held today, Dec. 22.

Due to the holiday schedule for the print version of the Leader, results won’t be known before the paper goes to press today, but a story will be posted on the Web site - www.the-leader.net - on Wednesday and will appear in next week’s print edition. Voters in the village of Luck will have two ballots to cast.

On one ballot will be the names of Trustee Marsha Jensen and challenger Don Tomlinson. On the second ballot will be the names of Trustee Gene Cooper and challenger Rich Williams. On each ballot, the candidate who receives the most votes will serve on the board until the April election.

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

Estimated cost The estimated cost of the election is $1,657. This amount was not included in the 2009 budget.

According to village Administrator Kristina Handt, personnel costs for the election will run about $565. Programming the voting machine is $682, and other supplies will be about $50.

Costs for advertising and legal notices are usually shared with the county, said Handt, but that is not the case in this election and all expense will be carried by the village. That amount is estimated at $360.

- Gary King/Mary Stirrat

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 3

Former deputy faces allegations of child sexual assault

Investigations began with report to school principal; Judge recuses self

by Greg Marsten BALSAM LAKE – Former Polk County Sheriff’s Deputy James Robert Baker, 50, of Centuria was formally charged with felony counts of sexual assault of a child under the age of 13 on Dec. 7, in Polk County Circuit Court.

The alleged incidents apparently surfaced with a report to local school officials and were forwarded from a school principal to the child’s mother and child protective services officials in October.

According to the criminal complaint, Baker is alleged to have touched the child sexually several times during a period between March 2008 and October 2009 during stays with Baker at his home. Baker and his wife are currently separated, although no record of divorce proceedings are available.

In the complaint, investigators recount alleged sexual contact between the child and Baker. During interviews, the child reportedly identified various

Bus crash civil trial coming to Polk County

by Mark Gunderman Chippewa Falls Herald CHIPPEWA FALLS - The defendants in a key lawsuit stemming from the Oct. 16, 2005, Chi-Hi band bus crash finally got their way. Judge Frederick Henderson has granted a change of venue motion, and the first civil trial in the case is set to open Jan. 15 in Polk County.

Much could happen, however, that could delay the start of the trial that could determine each party’s share of the substantial damages in the multiple lawsuits that have arisen. This particular case is mostly on damages claimed by severely injured band teacher Brian Collicott, but a verdict could have a major effect on other cases.

Five people were killed and dozens injured when the bus carrying band members and chaperones slammed into the underside of an overturned semi in the middle of I-94 near Osseo. The truck driver, Michael Kozlowski, driving a truck for Whole Foods Market Group, had fallen asleep and lost control, the National Transportation Safety Board ruled.

Kozlowski was acquitted of negligent homicide and other state criminal charges in a jury trial the following spring.

The lawsuit filed by the family of one of the people killed, student teacher Branden Atherton, took center stage among the civil cases. In that case, Henderson made two key rulings against the defense. He refused to move the trial out of Chippewa County, and he allowed the jury to consider punitive damages against Whole Foods.

Rather than face a jury on those terms, Whole Foods settled with the Atherton family just before the trial was to start last May. Other defendants in the case, especially the bus company, Chippewa Trails, were not part of the settlement.

The Collicott case is the next in line.

This time, Henderson agreed to the change of venue at a motions hearing earlier this week. He withheld ruling on whether punitive damages can be considered.

The rest of this story can be read at chippewa.com.

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details of the situation, including that he was touched on his genitals, over his pajamas, while he was sitting with Baker in a living room chair, and even specified that the alleged incidents occurred in a room that had a “heart” on the door.

The report states that Baker called the boy over to sit with him in the chair, and that the touching occurred while they were watching a cartoon on television.

When asked when the incidents have occurred, the child is alleged to have stated it happened at bedtime, and that similar abuse had occurred “lots of times,” and clarified later that Baker “always touches me there.”

The initial complaint was filed with information obtained by both Polk and Burnett County sheriff’s investigators, which apparently were triggered when the reports first surfaced with school officials. The Burnett County investigation also relates to a temporary restraining order filed Nov. 6, 2009. That order was renewed several weeks ago, and still remains in effect.

Three levels of hearsay However, in the initial court appearance in Polk County Court on Dec. 8, the charges were referred to as “Three levels of hearsay,” by Baker’s attorney, which the judge accepted. The reference apparently is because the charges revolve around allegations made to one person, then forwarded on to another person, and so on.

The time line of when the allegations first were brought to the mother’s attention does remain unclear, although mention is made several times in court documents that the child first reported

the allegations to his mother on Oct. 28, 2009, which would be two days prior to the reports made to school officials on Oct. 30.

Baker made an initial appearance in Polk County Court Monday, Dec. 21, before Judge Molly GaleWyrick. However, due to potential conflict of interest, the judge recused herself from the case, meaning the appearance was, in effect, delayed to an unspecified date.

According to Polk County Clerk of Court Lois Hoff, due to Baker’s previous contact and work with local law enforcement, his case is likely to be handled by a yet-to-be-determined judge from another county. That decision has been forwarded on to the State 10th Judicial District for allocation.

Washburn County Judge Eugene Harrington handled the related temporary restraining order filed by Baker’s wife back in November.

Baker was a deputy with the Polk County Sheriff’s Department until January 2004, but no longer works in law enforcement. Polk County Sheriff Tim Moore said he had not read the criminal complaint, and would not comment on the case.

If convicted of the charges against him, Baker faces a potential combined penalty of up to 100 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines. He is presumed to be fully innocent until proven guilty on the matter, and has not made a statement either way in court in his own defense. He has hired attorney Mark Gherty of Hudson, and remains free without bond. His next court appearance has not been set.

Burnett Sheriff’s Department receives $38,000 grant MADISON – The Burnett County Sheriff’s Department is one of seven northern Wisconsin counties to receive a county law-enforcement grant.

The department will receive $38,328.

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced Monday the awarding of $244,500 to seven sheriffs departments. The grant program is designed to assist with the unique law-enforcement challenges for counties adjacent to Native American lands in Wisconsin.

“This grant program has helped sheriffs departments with law-enforcement issues resulting from a close proximity to tribal lands and casinos in particular,” said Van Hollen.

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, specialized patrol, investigation, traffic enforcement, crime prevention and information technology. Awards have also funded law-enforcement training, communications equipment, armories, vehicle location technology and emergency/rescue equipment.

Grant awards are allocated using a formula consisting of three criteria: county population, county crime rate and county unemployment rate. This year’s funds were awarded to Barron, Burnett, Langlade, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida and Shawano counties.

- from the office of State Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen

Quinton to challenge Hubler SPOONER — Active police officer, Army Military Police veteran and Washburn County Board member, Don Quinton, has announced his candidacy for the 75th Assembly District seat, currently held by Rep. Mary Hubler, DRice Lake. Quinton said residents of northern Wisconsin are in need of a representative who is willing to fight to create a better business climate and curb irresponsible spending in Madison.

“As an active citizen in Washburn County, I’ve witnessed with great concern the toll that the never-ending loss of jobs has taken on our community,” Quinton said. “I am willing to do what it takes to end the irresponsible fiscal policies in Madison that perpetuate constant job loss in northern Wisconsin.”

Quinton is a police officer of 18 years, 17 of those with the city of Spooner. He is a member of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association, the National Rifle Association, the Knights of Columbus and active in the Washburn County Republican Party.

As a son of long-term residents and farmers in the Shell Lake area, Quinton himself has resided in Spooner for the past 16 years, and is a dedicated member of the Washburn County community. He was appointed to the

Washburn County Board in 2005, and has been elected from 2006-present, serving most recently as first vice chair.

His work on the county board prompted further involvement in the Wisconsin Counties Association. He has worked to further serve his community as an appointed member of the Northern Bridges Managed Care Organization Board of Directors, and prior to his local community service, Quinton served his country as a member of the Army Military Police.

“Mary Hubler has been in office since 1984, and now jobs are continually fleeing northern Wisconsin,” said Quinton.

“I would like to change this tradition and extend my long-term commitment to my community by running for office and representing the 75th Assembly District in Madison.”

The 75th Assembly District includes all of Barron County except for the townships of Dallas, Sioux Creek and Dover in the southeast corner, as well as the eastern Polk County townships of McKinley, Johnstown and Beaver and Washburn County south of Hwy. 70 and the townships of Spooner and Stone Lake north of Hwy. 70. The general election for the 75th will be held on Nov. 2, 2010. — submitted

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

P O L K

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Luck golf course in the black

Planning commission seeks direction from village board

by Mary Stirrat LUCK — Bad weather postponed the regular monthly meeting of the Luck Village Board from Dec. 9 to Dec. 16, but there was still barely a quorum in attendance. Absent were village President Nancy Webster-Smith and trustees Jen Nelson and Lori Pardun.

The meeting was chaired by Trustee Steve Nielsen, who reported that the village planning commission is still seeking some direction from the board. The commission met Nov. 16 to discuss proposed changes to the sign ordinance and the fence and hedge ordinance. A public hearing on the fence and hedge ordinance was set for Monday, Dec. 21, at 6 p.m., during a meeting of the planning commission. Also on the agenda for the commission is discussion of economic development in the village.

Webster-Smith is the chair of the planning commission, but was unable to attend the Nov. 16 meeting. Nielsen said that the commission is especially looking for direction regarding the future of a business park in Luck.

Trustee Gene Cooper said that the board members present should provide that direction, but Nielsen pointed out that Webster-Smith, chair of the commission and president of the board, was absent from the meeting.

“Do we want to wait another month, two months?” asked Cooper.

He suggested that Nielsen, as a member of the planning commission, let the commission know that the board directs it to continue to look into industrial development, or a business park, along with development of a street to allow traffic to bypass the school, possibly off 4th Street.

The other two trustees present, Marsha Jensen and Peter Demydowich, agreed with Cooper’s suggestions.

“I think the planning commission is going to get discouraged if we don’t have an effort going to seek out some other land (for economic development),” said Jensen.

Nielsen said he would present the discussion topics at the next meeting of the planning commission.

Clarification The story reporting on the special Nov. 23 meeting of the board included comments made by Webster-Smith in an interview after the meeting.

These comments were not made during the meeting.

In her comments after the meeting, Webster-Smith indicated that she felt an ordinance approved that evening giving day-to-day oversight of village operations to the village administrator was passed in haste.

Board members Wednesday evening took the opportunity to respond to that comment.

“How long did we work on writing that ordinance?” Jensen asked Demydowich, who submitted the change to the board for consideration. “What help did we get?”

Demydowich told Jensen that the League of Municipalities provided assistance, saying that there were at least three correspondences between himself and the League as the ordinance was being drafted.

He said that, personally, he had spent two weeks researching the issue.

“It was not a hasty decision,” he said.

“It had been on our plate about five weeks.”

Golf course Contrary to earlier expectations, the Luck Municipal Golf Course is going to end the year in the black, according to discussion at the meeting.

Nielsen, chairing the meeting in the absence of Webster-Smith, noted the financial information compiled by Cardinal Accounting, which handles the golf course.

In his report to the golf commission, Cardinal Accounting’s Martin Dikkers projected that the golf course will end 2009 with net cash of $19,000, compared with a projected budget shortfall of $6,800.

“We’re in pretty good position there,” said Nielsen. He noted the positive comments that have been made about the course, adding that the board should be able to agree to promote it.

Pay increases In a closed session at the end of the meeting, the board approved 2-percent wage increases for the nonunion employees, consisting of the administrator,

Polk County Board contests merge Amery primary has no candidates for six seats

by Gregg Westigard POLK COUNTY – More candidates for the Polk County Board have entered the race as the filing period for the April 2010 election enters the last two weeks.

Another supervisor has announced his retirement. There will be a primary in Amery, and five board members have not registered. As of Monday, there were no candidates for six of the 23 seats. The filing period ends Tuesday, Jan. 5. Incumbents not running must file a declaration of noncandidacy by Monday, Dec. 28.

Bob Dueholm is the latest board member to announce his retirement. The District 1 supervisor is stepping down after one term. Harry Johansen has registered as a candidate for the seat, with Dueholm’s backing.

In Amery, Mick Larsen has two challengers as he seeks a fifth term. Warren Nelson and John W. Mayer have also registered for the District 14 seat. A primary will be held Feb. 16 to narrow the

slate to two names.

Two more new candidates have registered in the past week. James Drabek is running against Brian Masters in District 10, the Balsam Lake area. Lowell Enerson has registered for the District 20 seat in Farmington, now held by Gary Bergstrom.

The five supervisors who have not registered for re-election as of Monday are Kathy Keinholz, James Edgell, Ken Sample, Gary Bergstrom and Neil Johnson. They have two weeks to enter the race and one week to officially retire.

As of Monday, there were no registered candidates in six districts. Two of those seats are wide open. The St. Croix Falls seat, District 8, is vacant with the resignation of Keith Rediske. The Clayton area seat, District 12, became open early in December when Craig Moriak announced his retirement. The other seats with no candidates are the ones held by Keinholz, Edgell, Sample and Johnson.

As of Monday, nine incumbents are running unopposed, four new candidates have no opposition, there are four contests, and six districts have no candidates.

chief of police, night sergeant, part-time officers, director of public works and oncall truck drivers.

Regular hours for the park and recreation employee were reduced to 1,200 for 2010, compared with 1,644 hours in previous years.

Wages and benefits for the golf course maintenance personnel will increase $7,882, including about $6,000 in retirement benefits not included in the 2009 budget. Total wages and benefits for the clubhouse personnel will decrease $796.

Insurance Two quotes were discussed regarding municipal insurance for liability, law enforcement, errors and omissions, and auto. The bid from the League of Municipalities Mutual Insurance, which includes no-fault sewer backup insurance, was accepted by the board.

In the past, the village has used Community Insurance Corporation, which was the second bidder but didn’t include no-fault sewer backup.

Cost for $2 million coverage through Mutual Insurance is $10,737, compared to $10,442 through Community Insurance without no-fault sewer backup.

The board voted to increase the coverage to $3 million, at $11,487. No-fault sewer backup insurance is $1,538 of that amount.

Though not guaranteed, said Administrator Kristina Handt, the board of directors routinely makes dividend declarations averaging about 10 percent.

In addition, if 80 percent of the board and department heads view a video on public official liability, the premium will be lessened by $200.

In other business, the insurance commissioner has declared a dividend to policyholders in the Local Government Property Insurance Fund. Luck’s dividend credit is $4,654, which will be applied to the 2010 premium and will be shared proportionately between the gen-

eral, water, sewer, golf course, and library funds.

Other business • At the request of the Luck School Board, the village board voted to designate one parking space on Butternut Avenue as a handicap spot to accommodate a teacher who will be having hip surgery.

The school will pay for signage and striping, with the director of public works ensuring it meets regulations and providing the labor.

• The village caucus will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, prior to the regular monthly board meeting. Seats up for election are those currently held by Marsha Jensen, Gene Cooper and Lori Pardun.

• The board directed staff to develop a two-year contract with House of Wood Inspections to provide building inspection services, which will mean lower inspection costs for residents plus an administrative fee for the village. The contract will be brought to the board in January for approval.

• The board voted to endorse a letter supporting United Pioneer Home’s efforts to secure funding for a new skilled nursing facility.

• Responding to an earlier question from Jensen regarding the savings associated with the new radio read system for water meters, it was reported that meter reading took 30 hours when done in March. The next read, done with the radio-readers, took 12-1/2 hours. “So there is considerable savings there,” said Cooper, who instigated the change.

• As directed by the board at the Nov. 16 meeting, Handt obtained quotes from three law firms for providing legal services to the village. The information, provided by John Schneider, Tim Laux and Bakke Norman, will be discussed at the next meeting of the finance and personnel committee.

OWI fourth- and fifth-offense arrests made POLK COUNTY – Steven Olson, 52, Balsam Lake, was stopped while driving his truck on Friday, Dec. 18, and was charged with OWI. It was his fifth offense. He was also charged with operating after revocation of his driver’s license.

A St. Paul, Minn., man, Eduardo Urbina, 30, was stopped for speeding on Hwy. 8 and was charged with operating under the influence, fourth offense, on Dec. 17.

Several other OWI first-offense arrests were made this week, including: • Bridgette Kral, 42, North Branch, Minn.

• Michael Webster, 49, Leyland, United Kingdom, and • James Rothmeier, 27, Frederic. — with information from the Polk County Sheriff’s Department

What is a candidate?

Registration is first step in running

by Gregg Westigard BURNETT/POLK COUNTIES – Two weeks remain for candidates to get in on the April 6 election, in contests where nominating papers are used. The filing period ends Tuesday, Jan. 5, for all county board seats, seats on every school board, city council races and village board seats in the villages that do not use caucuses for nominating.

The first step in running for any of these offices is filing a campaign registration statement, a form required by the Wisconsin election board. Form GAB-1 is available on the election board Web site and from the election clerks for the office sought.

Interested persons are not candidates until they are registered. There is a term, “taking out papers,” that is sometimes used at election times. Potential candidates may get their nominating papers and start collecting signatures

without registering. They are not candidates.

The election board has prepared a ballot access checklist for each type of office on the spring ballot. The checklists state that “All candidates should file a campaign registration statement before circulating nomination papers.”

Incumbents must amend or update their previous statements before collecting signatures.

A reason for the campaign registration process is to let the public know who is running for offices. Without registration, there is no way to know if there are interested candidates. Registration is actually required “as soon as intent to seek an office is known” according to the checklist, and many candidates for the fall 2010 state election contests are already registered.

After registration, the candidates circulate and submit their nomination papers with the required signatures and submit a declaration of candidacy. The final steps must be completed by Jan. 5.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 5

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

Board chair may appoint county committees

Opinion rendered by Burnett County corporate counsel

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – Burnett County Corporate Counsel David Grindell presented his opinion on a resolution pertaining to makeup of county committees to the county board at their Dec. 17 meeting. A resolution pertaining to the administration committee, one of seven county board committees, was in question.

According to Grindell, the adoption of a resolution which would automatically make chairpersons of the other six committees members UW-Extension family livof the administration ing agent Marilyn Kooiker committee is contrary to presented members of the Wisconsin statutes in that Burnett County Board with a it would allow the county booklet titled “Spotlight on board to establish the Diversity,” the first in a secommittees, rather than ries profiling family living the county board chair- educational programs person. around the state. Kooiker’s “The proposed resolu- work with families at the St. tion, as I see it, would also Croix Tribal Youth Center in take away the county ad- Hertel is outlined on two ministrator’s ability to act pages of the book. – Photos in consultation with the by Nancy Jappe county board chair to ap-

point county board members, which would then be subject to the approval of the county board,” Grindell stated in a Dec. 14 letter to Phil Lindeman, board chairman.

Board Supervisor Maury Miller said he would withdraw the resolution, but suggested to Grindell that he go onto the Internet and Google John Paul Jones. Miller then suggested that Bob Meyer, president of Grindell do a redraft of Wisconsin Indianhead Tech- the resolution to state nical College since 2008, that members of the spoke to members of the Bur- board’s standing comnett County Board of Super- mittees could recomvisors during their Dec. 17 mend a member of that meeting. WITC, the biggest committee for appointtechnical college in the state, ment to the administracovers 11 counties and cur- tion committee by the rently handles 25,043 credit county board chair. The and noncredit students. key would be to make Meyer asked the board to that a nonbinding recsend him com- ommendation, which ments/feedback on commu- Grindell agreed would nity needs that WITC could be the way to go. meet.

Supervisor Chris The motion to withSybers suggested that WITC draw the resolution and provide law-enforcement send it back to commitclasses in the county locally tee was approved by the rather than participants hav- board. ing to go to Rice Lake.

In other action, the

board approved zoning requests from David Litwin in the town of Webb Lake, with no objection from the town board or the land use and information committee; and a zoning request from Jason and Jennifer Danielsen in the town of Scott, again with no objection of the town board and land use committee. It also approved a zoning request from Anita Wiberg in the town of Siren, with both town board and land use committee approval.

The board approved a policy and fee structure for proposed changes affecting mapping and E911 databases, to take effect Jan. 1, 2010; and an updated policy on Burnett County meeting room usage.

The meeting room use policy specifies that the rooms at the Government Center are not available for use by for-profit businesses or organizations and that no admission or use fee can be collected by a noncounty government entity for any event conducted at the Government Center.

UW-Extension community development agent Mike Kornmann appeared before the Burnett County Board Thursday, Dec. 17, to talk about the county’s comprehensive plan, a plan that a committee of 28 people have worked for a year and a half to put together.

There will be a public information meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19; a public hearing Feb. 9 and a vote on the plan by the county board at its March 18, 2010, meeting. The new plan will affect 11 townships and two villages in the county.

Webster schools sign on for Race to the Top Carl Rachner, a student in the Tiger Manufacturing program, began the presentation that explained what the program was all about.

But this program was not the only agenda item involving finances. The board also acted to refinance its unfunded liability to the Wisconsin Retirement System.

In a formal resolution it approved and authorized board officials to apply to the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands for a State Trust Fund loan in the amount of $560,000. This money will be used to pay off the current service liability to the retirement system.

Erickson said that this move will put the schools in a position to save money and regulate yearly expenses.

The district will save a total of $281,633 in interest payments, and it will have a fixed amount rather than a fluctuating amount that it will pay annually to cover the funding of retirement costs. The refinancing will also permit the repayment of the costs to be completed four years earlier than under the present structure.

Erickson emphasized that this will not involve any new taxes. He said that the money for repayment of this refinanced loan is already in the general fund, and is part of the current tax levy.

If there was a “fun” part to the meeting for the board members, it was the presentation given by teacher Roy Ward and the students working with him in Tiger Man-

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ufacturing. This project, which began in 2006 with strong support from the school board and the community, gives students experience and expertise in manufacturing components for the cabinetmaking industry.

Students enrolled in the program made the bulk of the presentation. Each of the members of the class present at the meeting explained a different phase of the program and their work in it.

Ward and the students gave special recognition to the work of Chris Ingles, a community member who acts as a volunteer teaching aide to Ward. “I’m very thankful for him,” Ward said.

He explained that what Ingles does allows more teacher time for working with the students. “He allows me to be in two places at once,” Ward commented. “Because of what he does, I can work with other students while he supervises the manufacturing.”

The students also had words of high praise for Ingles.

“He’s fun to work with,” they said, and they offered their special thanks because he was the “best worker, very helpful and nice.”

In other business, the board: • received Erickson’s comments on the 2008-2009 audit of district finances which showed “no major issues”; • awarded volunteer coaching contracts to Dan Thill (JV softball) and Steve Holmquist (junior high girls basketball); • and approved extension of the leave of absence of Donna Jones.

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by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - “The devil,” as they say, “is in the details.”

At the moment those details are a bit vague, but the Webster School Board is willing to face potential devils in the Race to the Top. Meeting in regular session Monday evening, Dec. 21, the board agreed to participate in a state program called Race to the Top that will fund innovations and reform in education with $4 billion in competitive grants from the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. That money will be divided between participating school districts, and initial projections are that the Webster schools could receive about $89,000.

But there is some uncertainty at this time in the fine print. Just how big a financial piece of pie will be available to individual districts is uncertain, and there is some question of just what will be expected from those districts.

According to district Superintendent Jim Erickson, the preliminary “scope of work” that identifies areas in each district where the Wisconsin plan for use of these federal dollars is to be implemented is unclear in certain regards. For example, the state lists requirements for development of data systems and tracking of student growth which Webster already has in place. In that case the requirement for development and enhancement of such a system is vague.

There is also a requirement for districts to hire persons in part-time positions to serve as coaches for teachers in the fields of math and science. Whether the costs of these positions will be fully covered by the grant monies is uncertain, and the question then is whether there will be enough grant money remaining after salaries and benefits to justify participation in the program.

But there is an escape clause in the program that will allow a district to withdraw from the program within a 90-day window. Districts will be able to evaluate pros and cons and decide whether or not to continue the Race to the Top. “On December 21st this looks OK,” said Erickson.

“Today I’ll support it.”

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

B U R N E T T

C O U N T Y

H E A D L I N E S

School board reviews investment options

Hears annual audit report

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG – The Grantsburg School Board spent their last meeting of 2009 listening to options for investing district funds and reviewing the district’s annual audit report.

Dave Ness, investment manager from Marshall & Ilsley Wealth Management of Milwaukee, appeared before the board at its Dec.14 meeting to present investment strategies for the district’s Other Post Employee Benefit Trust, Fund 73.

Fund 73 is the trust fund in which the district sets aside funds each year for the teacher retirement contract provisions.

As reported at the district’s October annual meeting, the amount in the trust was $267,933.42. The investment return earned by the trust since the last annual meeting was $3,478.22 and the total of disbursements made from the trust since the last annual meeting were $309,471.31.

Since setting up the trust in 2007 the board has taken the most conservative investment option, placing funds in a low-risk money market fund. Ness was at the meeting to give the board all of their options.

“I don’t know if we have the authority to risk taxpayer funds in the market,” remarked board member David Dahlberg, referring to five riskier investment options presented by Ness.

“We don’t think we are out of the woods yet,” said Ness, commenting on the current economic situation.

Ness also brought up the “buzz” over gold. “Everyone talks about gold,” Ness told the board. “Gold is speculative money and is not an option for the district as an investment.”

After hearing Ness’ presentation the board decided to stay with the current option at least for another year, given today’s economy.

Burgin asked the board how often they would like a report from Ness or another M & I manager. Board President David Ahlquist said he felt regular reports on the district’s investments are needed.

Kerri Oachs, the district’s administrative assistant of business affairs, told the board she receives a monthly report from M & I. Ahlquist then suggested an M & I representative should make a report to the board twice a year either in person or via telephone or Web conference.

Auditor Larry Stotz then presented the school district’s audit report, which was completed last July.

Stotz reported the Grantsburg District’s total currents assets are $7,298,752, 000.

“There’s quite a bit of equity in the buildings,” said Stotz, and while that’s good, you have to keep in mind you can’t spend a building.”

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Grantsburg School Board members heard comments from Justin Iske, corporate director of finance for the Apollo Group, Inc., Insight School’s former parent company, at their Dec. 14 meeting. Iske commented on the completion of the overdue Insight School of Wisconsin audit after handing copies of the completed audit report to the board. Iske said the creation and completion of the audit to satisfy all parties involved was a the long and complicated process. Iske assured the board he and Dr. Green would see that future audits are completed on time. - Photo by Priscilla Bauer Stotz gave high praise to the district staff. “This staff gets the best grade,” said Stotz of their work and help in preparing the audit.

The board then asked Stotz to comment on the completion of the Insight School audit. Stolz recognized the good working relationship he and Insight Regional Vice President Dr. Cliff Green developed as they worked through the audit process, saying he also received great support from all the Insight staff.

“It was no small piece of work getting these reports to you tonight,” said Stotz. “They produced quite a bit of work for us in the last 18 months as we tried to come up with a report to satisfy the district, Insight and the Department of Public Instruction.”

“We wanted to be able to safeguard funds funneled through the district,”Stotz added.

“It’s been a rocky road getting the district what it needed but I think the wheel has now been invented,” said Stotz referring to the fact he and Insight staff had to create a document that has never existed before now.

“We’re on a timetable now where we won’t have issues in the future,” promised Stotz.

Insight School audit complicated The board then heard comments from Justin Iske, corporate director of finance for the Apollo Group, Inc, Insight School’s former parent company, on the completion of the overdue Insight School of Wisconsin audit.

As Iske handed out copies of the completed audit report to the board he reiterated Stotz’s remarks as to the long and complicated process of creating an audit report to satisfy all parties involved.

Iske apologized to the board for the delay in completing the audit and assured the board Green will see this doesn’t happen in future.

Grantsburg School District Superintendent Joni Burgin said she felt Iske (Apollo Group) and Stotz (the independent auditor) did an outstanding job completing

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the audit by the promised time lines.

Burgin also stated that since ISWI is a charter school, the Insight audit was complicated by the fact the DPI didn’t provide the district with guidance on what they wanted to see in the financial audit.

“Eventually, they will have guidelines and specific rules for audits such as ours,” said Burgin. “Larry Stotz took a conservative approach, and provided outstanding advice for the school district. We feel good about the audit report and the integrity of the report,” said Burgin.

Iske reported to the board Insight’s daily average attendance in the 2007-08 year was 197 students and for 2008-09 the virtual school is serving approximately 340 students.

Iske stated Insight’s expenditures have decreased for this year while attendance has increased. Iske was pleased to report the school has been able to serve more students for less money.

Dahlberg asked Iske if Insight would be profitable by next year. Iske replied saying they are evaluating economic factors as to Insight’s profitability in the future.

The Insight audit report completed, the board approved the Open Enrollment Revenue transfer to Insight in the amount of $1,851,592.53.

Other business The board met in closed session to discuss the possibility of part-time open enrollment. Insight currently only serves full-time students with the exception of Grantsburg High School students.

“We are working together to make this happen,” said Burgin.

Also discussed in the close session was the impending sale of Insight School. Green stated there are several interested buyers and then answered questions on the sale by school board members. Green said no decision has been made regarding the sale.

The school will continue operations as usual and will remain a charter school of the Grantsburg District after being sold to another company.

The board reviewed drafts from the policy committee on the district’s complaint policy, academic acceleration, student input in district publications, school volunteers, school use of video surveillance equipment, response to intervention and student clubs.

The board heard Clayton Jorgensen’s annual school grounds report. Jorgensen told the board the same crew would be taking care of the grounds again in 2010. Jorgensen they had a very good crew, dedicated and hardworking. “These guys take ownership as if it were their lawn which it really is as they are taxpayers, too,” said Jorgensen. The board also acknowledged the fine job the crew does in maintaining the district’s grounds.

The board approved Joel Anderson as assistant coach for girl’s basketball.

The board approved Jackie Maslow as a 3.75 hour-aday instructional assistant.

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Infrastructure committee votes not to install handicapped-accessible door

by Sherill Summer SIREN - The new Aging and Disabilities Resource Center in Burnett County has money to help direct the public into the new space. Director Laura Neve asked the infrastructure committee in November if it would be possible to place a handicapped-accessible door on the east entrance of the government center and place signs on the door to help the public find the ADRC. The committee voted in November to have an architect give price estimates and options, and on Wednesday, Dec. 16, the infrastructure committee reviewed the options presented by the architect.

It would cost the ADRC about $9,000 to install an automatic door opener with push-button controls and do other minor corrections to the entrance to bring it up to code.

Another option was to make no modification to the east entrance but to place additional directional signage to direct the public towards the ADRC. As can be imagined, this option was considerably cheaper than the first. Only additional signs need to be purchased.

Buildings maintience Supervisor Gary Faught explained that even with a handicapped-accessible door in the east entrance, outside the entrance there is a curb separating the sidewalk from the parking lot, and it is not as easy as it

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sounds to cut a handicap ramp into the sidewalk.

With the curb in the way of the handicapped-accessible door, even with handicap parking near the east entrance, those in wheelchairs and with severe limits to mobility may have to cross the parking lot to use the ramp near the main entrance.

Supervisor Rick Anderson also expressed his belief that having two handicapped-accessible entrances about 75 feet apart was not a good use of public funds.

Not all supervisors agreed with Anderson and Supervisor Eldon Freeze made a motion to install the handicap push-button doors and make the other minor adjustments to the entrance. The motion was defeated by a 3 to 4 vote.

A second motion was made to not install the handicapped-accessible door and instead place more signs directing the public to the ADRC. This motion passed by a vote of 5 to 2.

Although technically a separate issue, possibly installing a handicapped-accessible door at the east entrance and creating more handicap parking near the entrance were reasons why moving the veterans services office into the ADRC was a good move. The administration committee voted to move the veterans office on Monday, Dec. 21.

County to move veterans service office

by Sherill Summer SIREN - Lately, each time moving the veterans service office is on a Burnett County agenda, Burnett County veterans come out in force to express their displeasure of the idea. The administration committee meeting on Monday, Dec. 21, was no exception, but unlike all of the other meetings that the veterans have attended, this time the committee supervisors voted, and they voted to move the office into the Aging and Disabilities Resource Center.

The one supervisor voting to keep the office where it was was Donald Chell, who told of being at a Christmas party for senior citizens in Grantsburg over the weekend. He said that many veterans came up to talk with him, and they all wanted to keep the veterans service office where it was.

Other reasons to keep the veterans service office as a standalone office were given in the public comments before the vote. The current county veterans service officer, Chris Sower, talked about the 1,300 files at Burnett County for veterans and the need for two office spaces with two privacy doors and a large area for literature explaining veterans benefits.

Current secretary Linda Anderson explained that veterans do not get benefits until claims are filed. If staff is cut back from the two full-time employees, claims will not be filed as timely as before, meaning less money into the county for veterans.

Anderson also reported that Burnett County’s regular CVSO, Doug Stubbe, who is currently serving overseas, also doesn’t think it is a good idea to move the office into the ADRC. Most of the committee supervisors politely explained why they still believed

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 7

moving the veterans service office would make the veterans service department better, usually because the veterans office would be closer to other offices that might offer additional benefits.

There was no time line given for when the office would move from its present location into the ADRC. During the discussion at the policy planning meeting held on Friday, Dec. 11, county supervisors explained that it was likely that a handicap-accessible door would be installed in the east entrance near the ADRC and the veterans service office if it was moved into the ADRC and more handicapped parking spots would be reserved near the east door.

Currently the entrance is used only as a fire escape.

There is money in the ADRC budget that could pay for signs and a handicapped door to help the public access ADRC, and the infrastructure committee that oversees the government building voted to have architects give price estimates and options.

During the infrastructure committee meeting held Wednesday, Dec. 16, the options given by the architects were reviewed and the committee decided not to install a handicapped-accessible door in the east entrance, even if there is money for the project, because there is no handicap ramp anywhere near the east entrance.

If the county were to designate handicap parking places near the east door as was proposed, they would still have to step up a curb to enter the east door, and those in wheelchairs may be forced to cross the parking lot toward the main entrance to use the handicap ramp located there.

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PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Results so far...

L e a d e r We b Po l l

This week’s question: same as last week Of the following, which is your favorite Christmas movie? See results thus far at left.

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

J o e H e l l e r

F O R U M A re a n e w s a t a g l a n c e Project Blue Light HAYWARD - Detective Mark Kelsey of the city of Hayward Police Department — also local president of the Hayward Professional Police Association — is asking local residents to show their support for law enforcement by participating in Project Blue Light. Project Blue Light encourages the practice of placing blue lights in holiday decorations and windows, and tying blue ribbons on car antennas to demonstrate respect for law enforcement officers who have given their lives in the line of duty. The project was initiated and endorsed by a national grief support organization called Concerns of Police Officers, Inc., consisting of more than 15,000 surviving families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty for the citizens they have served. Project Blue Light shows support during the holidays, but it is also a show of support for the law enforcement officers who work the streets and roads 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. - Sawyer County Record (haywardwi.com) Council eyes property RICE LAKE - A two-acre piece of lakeshore property at the east end of Charles Street may cost $300,000 to clean up. The city of Rice Lake had intended to buy the property for $60,000, but it has now learned that if the sale proceeds as originally planned, the city will not be able to secure grants for a cleanup there. The topic will come before the city council when the council meets in regular session this week.

- Rice Lake Chronotype (chronotype.com) Family displaced SUPERIOR - A family of five was displaced from their Superior town house after a Sunday morning fire started in an upstairs bedroom. Superior Fire responded to Linden Court for a fire started by a TV cord at about 11:40 a.m. All five members of the family, two parents and three children, safely evacuated the town house before firefighters arrived. The damage is estimated at $40,000 for a burned bedroom and smoke damage. The Red Cross assisted the family in finding temporary housing. - Duluth News Tribune/Superior Telegram Owner retrieves goat SUPERIOR – The wayward goat captured Monday at the Superior Waste Treatment Plant was picked up by his owner, a doctor, said Dan Wicklund of Dan’s Feed Bin in Superior. He declined to give the owner’s name. Employees at the Superior Waste Treatment Plant spent Monday morning trying to capture the goat.

It got up on the rocks in the harbor near the plant before Derek Pearson, a cashier and mill worker at Dan’s Feed Bin, said he grabbed the goat by its horns and took him to his truck. The goat, which had a broken rope around its neck, had been reported loose in Superior since at least 8 p.m. Sunday, said Ruby Berg, a staff assistant at the waste treatment plant. - Duluth News Tribune/Superior Telegram

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

Man accused in beating HINCKLEY, Minn. - The man charged with beating Hinckley driving instructor Dwaine Palmer will start the new year behind bars. Olaf Thomas, 21, was ordered to serve 30 days in the Pine County Jail for violating the conditions of his release related to the assault charges. Thomas admitted in court Friday that he failed to abstain from drugs and mood-altering substances, which were conditions of his release. Thomas must report to the jail by Dec. 28. He is charged with two counts of second-degree assault, and one count of third-degree assault, simple robbery, and first-degree aggravated robbery. He is due back in court Feb. 5, at 9 a.m. According to the criminal complaint, Thomas was one of three men who attacked Palmer who was walking his dog. Thomas and the two others, who are identified as “Smokey” and Aaron, allegedly knocked Palmer to the ground, began punching him in the face and stomped on his head. The complaint states, Palmer told police he felt the men “poking around, going through his pockets” during the attack.

They did not take his wallet, but did steal his cell phone from his jacket. The two other men named in the complaint remain at large. The assault left Palmer hospitalized at the North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale with a broken nose, jaw and both eye sockets. Police were given a tip that Thomas was involved in the attack. They interviewed him at his home in Brook Park and noticed injuries to his knuckles. During the investigation, police were told by a woman who knows Thomas that he was boasting about the attack. The criminal complaint states the woman said “he pointed to the marks on his hand saying ‘this is where I punched him in the teeth.’” Police obtained a search warrant for Thomas’ residence and found a pair of shoes with blood on the laces. Police also say the pattern on the sole of the shoe is consistent with the pattern noted on the skin of Palmer’s head.

- redrockonair.com

Where to Write

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

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

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

T h e

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

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

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

I n t e r ! C o u n t y

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DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 9

Modern farms It’s becoming increasingly popular to reminisce about simpler times and how good things used to be. Today’s dairy farmers, like their agricultural forefathers, share a commitment to produce safe, nutritious and affordable food products. But agriculture is very different now.

Remember the ’57 Chevy? That wonderful body style made it a classic. But have you driven one lately? No power steering, no air conditioning, no seat belts, no air bags, no computers to manage performance, horrible gas mileage and no emissions controls.

Comparing modern farming with the old days is like comparing the ’57 Chevy with a 2010 model. Today’s dairy farmers use technology never dreamt of by our parents or grandparents. Can you think of any business in the United States that hasn’t changed significantly in the last 50 years? Dairy farmers have changed in order to remain competitive with other states and other countries. And they have done so responsibly.

The rural beauty of Wisconsin is close to the hearts of dairy farmers. Environmental protection and the adoption of new farming practices are not mutually exclusive. In fact, research conducted at the University of Minnesota and published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers indicates that larger farms do a better job protecting the environment because they have the resources to have specialists dedicated to managing environmental issues.

Wisconsin has strong laws that hold permitted dairies to a “zero discharge” standard. These laws are more stringent than those governing municipal treatment plants. Dairy farmers support these laws because they are concerned about protecting our land, air and water.

The milk and cheese produced in our state are important economic pillars. The Dairy Business Association feels it is important that we grow and sustain an industry that is critical to Wisconsin’s future.

You can rely on our dairy farmers to protect and maintain a quality rural way of life and to take their environmental responsibility seriously.

Sincerely, Laura Fischer Madison

Harvesting does The recent sightings in northern Wisconsin and Minnesota of the creature known as Sasquatch, Bigfoot, Yeti, Skunk Ape, etc., etc., etc., has caused a stir in the local community.

Imagine an animal with human features, 7 to 8 feet tall, 400-500 pounds, covered in long, dark-brown hair, able to cross a twolane highway in three steps.

What could possibly be more fascinating?

I think it’s time for our DNR to take ad-

Wisconsin hunters can help those in need this holiday season With the holidays upon us, helping others is on everyone’s mind. But this down economy is affecting our communities across the board, including the charitable organizations across Wisconsin that help many families in need.

Hunters in Wisconsin clearly understand this giving spirit, and I commend and congratulate them on the 10th year of a program coordinated by the Department of Natural Resources and various charities to help hunters donate venison to the hungry. I am working to support

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

vantage of another revenue source – have an early Sasquatch hunt the week before our regular deer hunt. Although a rare species (like our deer population is becoming), it could be an add-on hunt; with the late-season doe hunt we could be the only state with a “Double Bonus Hunt.”

Before I go on further and before the readers think this guy is nuttier than a fruitcake, I’ll try to get serious. The deer population is in dire straits and the DNR knows it, but the almighty dollar takes No. 1 priority. The local DNR, Spooner DNR and the DNR officials in Madison don’t have a clue how to decipher information from the different deer management units.

I do think Mr. Keith Warnke (the decision maker for management units in Northwest Wisconsin) should resign, his DNR position in Madison has the authority to impact our deer population, with disastrous results. I hunt in Unit 10. The Thursday before Wisconsin rifle season I stopped at a local watering hole in a small burg east of Frederic. As I was enjoying my beer the bartender asked me if I had purchased a bonus doe permit. I told her I doubted very much that Unit 10 had any for sale due to the very low population of deer. She said, “Let me check, I have a direct link to the DNR.” She got on her computer screen behind the bar and did verify that there were hundreds available in Unit 10 and this was less than two days from the opener.

This got me thinking that the people in charge of deer management units in Northwest Wisconsin are inept. That’s putting it nicely.

I’ll finish this diatribe with saying to the hunters in Unit 10 – If the DNR continues to issue bonus doe permits, don’t purchase them or if you want to donate to the DNR coffers, buy them and either burn them or cut them up.

Don’t harvest a doe, it’s just hurting the future of deer hunting. And to the skeptics, it’s the holiday season, have a slice of “fruitcake.”

Lastly, to Sasquatch, please don’t get shot but show your face more often.

In August 2006, after years of being at war with the third-world governance of Clam Falls Township over a variety of quality of life, environmental and safety issues including the control of traffic on 85th Street, an unshouldered, winding, hilly gravel country lane which provides access to my home, the town board responded by posting a 55 mph speed-limit sign (for 85th Street) at the junction of 320th Avenue.

It was a spiteful, vindictive spit in my face, authorized without public notice or hearing. I protested and local papers published several letters and commentaries under the title “Sign of Stupidity.” Despite my pleas for removal of the sign that effec-

tively sanctioned an insane rate of speed on the narrow roadway constituting a grave safety hazard to anyone or anything on the one-mile dead-end street.

For six months, I prevailed upon the township to remove the 55 mph sign. I hired my own highway engineering traffic experts to survey the road and determine a maximum safe speed. Their conclusion was 25 mph.

This information was provided to the township without a response. To provoke some action, in March 2007, I sued the township in accordance with common law in small claims court hoping to get an appropriate hearing that might draw attention to the mindlessness of the town’s signage decision which would result in the removal of the sign and its replacement with one appropriate for the condition of the roadway.

Over time, I begged the district attorney’s office and the sheriff to look into how something like this could take place and be ignored. What of open meeting and civil rights implications?

The township responded to my suit by turning to its deep-pockets insurer for defense. Within several weeks after my filing, the 55 mph sign mysteriously disappeared, however, the litigation continued, and for nearly two years, representing myself and doing everything I could to expose the inherent dysfunction and duplicity of the elected officials, the case was finally heard.

Judge Rasmussen ruled the township was immune from responsibility under state law and punished me for exercising good citizenship by imposing financial sanctions.

By this time, my out-of-pocket expenses for carrying the case forward – filing fees, expert witnesses, deposition, copying, travel and office costs – exceeded $5,000.

The cost to the township for their defense was zip - all borne by the insurer.

The trial court ruling in the case defied rationality and reasonable legal process. It made no sense to me, nor to a number of attorneys with whom I consulted.

An appeal was filed approximately a year ago.

Now, December 2009, I’ve just received the ruling from the appeals court - a onejudge decision reaffirming Rasmussen’s and imposing an additional financial sanction upon me for filing the appeal, concluding despite all evidence to the contrary, the action was frivolous.

I was reared in the Jesuit Roman Catholic faith, was trained as a military officer and performed honorable government service for more than half my life. It is ingrained upon me to speak out and act within the “system” to expose and correct a wrong whenever it becomes apparent. I’ve never been arrested, not a traffic violation, never spent a day in jail and have no history of addiction or aberrant behavior. I will be 75 years old in March, forthcoming, classified by the VA as service related fully disabled.

I live alone, with 14 adopted pets in my company, and my health is deteriorating.

My sole income is a VA disability pension

these efforts, which combine the generosity of Wisconsinites with our state’s hunting tradition in order to help those in need this holiday season.

In 2008, Wisconsin hunters donated 6,267 deer, in addition to other wild Russ to food Feingold game, pantries. The donated deer alone U.S. provided 340,000 Senator pounds of ground venison to needy families across the state, according to the DNR. This month, I am co-sponsor-

ing a bill that would encourage the rest of the country to follow Wisconsin’s lead.

This legislation would add another incentive to spur even more assistance for families in need by helping cover the processing costs of donated game, which, in Wisconsin, ranges from between $60 and $90 per deer. The bill allows hunters to deduct any processing cost they pay for processing venison, or other legally harvested game, that is donated to a feeding program. That’s in addition to the value of the meat, which they can already deduct as a charitable contribution.

And, even when charities and the state cover the processing costs—for example, with the many deer donated through the extremely successful pro-

Phil Olson Oakdale, Minn.

Formerly of Frederic

Courage of conviction

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

and Social Security. I live simply, sparsely and transparently. I seek no sympathy, only a modicum of understanding whether others agree with me or not. No one can deny my lifelong respect for authority.

At this late stage of life, I am at a crisis point, facing a most difficult decision. The choice I made to pursue the township was the right one, morally and intellectually.

We managed to get the 55 mph sign removed. How many lives, human and animal, have been preserved by speaking out on the signage issue? We will never know, but I’m comfortable with the actions I’ve taken to address the matter, regardless of the personal cost.

The court will soon order imposition of the sanctions. Rasmussen’s original imposition was $5,000 and I suspect the appeal order will double that amount.

More than one attorney knowledgeable of the case has concluded the ruling is inappropriate. If I had the resources, we’d be on our way to the Supreme Court. So I’m stuck with the moral quandary and my fundamental, lifelong adherence to principle and courage of conviction.

Do I surrender to whatever court-ordered sanctions and convey my income from a lifetime of hard work, service to my country and devotion to honor civic and social responsibility to the overfilled coffers of the township’s insurance company and let the troglodytes of Clam Falls gloat about their perceived victory over Brad Ayers, or do I refuse the sanctions order, accept a contempt of court citation and go to jail for the first time in my life? Those who know me well know what course I may choose.

Polk County is notorious in this region for its provincial, clannish, good-old-boy politics and judicial law enforcement and legislative pandering to the electorate.

Madison might just as well be on the dark side of the moon.

Should the court(s) in my case be setting me as an example to intimidate and silence dissenters of the status quo, they’ve got me. Under any circumstance, however, this matter is a long way from closure.

Rangers never quit.

Bradley E. Ayers Clam Falls/Somers Lake/Frederic

Letters to the editor

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

gram run by the DNR in Wisconsin— this legislation provides an incentive for processors to participate because their income from charities like this would be tax exempt.

This is a win-win-win for hunters, processors and those in need. During the holiday season, we all look for ways to help others, whether it is through volunteering at the local food pantry or donating to a local charity. Hunting, and deer hunting in particular, are a vital part of Wisconsin’s traditions and economy. By rewarding hunters who generously donate their harvested game to feed the hungry, and helping charitable organizations in a time of need, we can honor the true spirit of the holiday season.

n e w s p a p e r

PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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Burnett Airport looks to future following major project

by Sherill Summer SIREN - For about nine weeks this past year, from July to the end of September, a construction crew extended one of Burnett County Airport’s two runways 1,100 feet to create a 5,000-foot runway able to handle corporate jets, small passenger and cargo jet aircraft.

Overall, the construction phase of the airport expansion was smooth: the project was completed on time and construction bids were about $300,000 lower than estimated. The only things left to be done are painting the permanent markings on the new runway and the final inspection, both scheduled for spring of 2010.

In hindsight, the construction phase was somewhat anticlimactic compared to the airport’s struggle to get the runway expansion to the construction phase. The project was first envisioned 17 years ago, in 1992, when former Burnett County Administrator Myron Schuster and the Burnett County supervisors first laid out a plan to extend the runway.

History of project In some ways the dream of expanding the runway goes back before 1992. In the late 1980s an Airport Utilization Committee was formed to encourage additional use of the airport by corporate aircrafts so that there would be a documented need for extending the runway, but it wasn’t until 1992 that the county started work on expanding the airport in earnest.

As with many big projects, the first step was to create a list of things that needed to be done in petitioning the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics to dramatically improve the Burnett County Airport located two miles north of Siren, next to the county’s government building. Among the projects the airport decided to petition for were installation of lighting on the two runways, remodeling, refurbishing and insulating the terminal building, installing fencing around the airport and crack filling and sealcoating the existing runway. The county also wanted to expand one of the airports two runways to 5,000 feet.

There was no way of knowing if all of the projects petitioned for would be matched with grants from the Federal Bureau of Aeronautics. But if supervisors had not gone through the petitioning process, there was no way they would have been in line for any federal or state money.

So, starting with the intent to petition in 1992, supervisors on the property committee, the county administrator and the airport manager worked to pass the needed resolution through the county board to petition the Bureau of Aeronautics, joined with Northwest Regional Planning to put together justification for extending the runway by surveying airport users and creating a height limitation zoning ordinance.

This work alone took time to complete, but by by January of 1994 the county was ready to hold a public hearing on expanding the airport and send in a survey of airport users that documented that there might be as many as 520 more operations each year with an expanded runway (an operation is either a plane taking off or landing at the airport).

Some of the companies that requested a longer runway were the DNR, Horton Manufacturing, Stresau Labaratory

Airport manager Jeremy exSickler plains the options for updating the airport’s sixyear plan. Now that the runway is complete, he is looking to future plan projects.

AMJET Aircraft Corporation, Pike Bend Construction, Developed Technology Resources, the city of Ashland, Parker Hannifin and the Wisconsin Department of Administration.

At one time, in 1994, the expansion of the Burnett County Airport was in the top four projects to be funded, but the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics had committed to funding only the top three. Still, it was envisioned that funding for the extension was around the corner. There was even a rumor in 1995 that the Department of Administration, in charge of transporting state officials around the state, was considering basing a six- to eight-passenger plane and a car in Burnett County.

Chipping away The county continued to chip away at the preliminary work needed to bring about the airport extension, and an airport layout plan was filed with the FAA in 1995. Another public hearing on the project was held in January of 1996, but by spring of 1996 the project has its first setback when Burnett County was notified that none of the envisioned projects would be funded because of cutbacks in federal airport aid. The Bureau of Aeronautics also rejected the justification of likely operations with an expanded airport, possibly because many of the operations documented in the justification did not require a runway length of 5,000 feet.

Even though the Bureau of Aeronautics rejected the justification for expanding the airport compiled during 1994, the runway expansion remained on the airport’s six-year plan, a plan created by all airports eligible for federal and state funding documenting projects that they would like to see completed at their airport using money that the FAA pours into the state each year. The project priorities are a local decision, and locally the dream of expanding the airport remained.

An airport the size of Burnett County’s theoretically has about $150,000 to use each year on projects that meet the Bureau of Aeronautics’ approval. The county continued to petition for a runway expansion and other projects on the six year plan and set aside the required local match to use once federal and state funding became available. The county also put together a new justification survey of airport users showing that there would be about 600 existing and future operations requiring a runway length of 4,750 feet or greater, and of those 600 operations, 280 of them would require a runway length of 5,000 feet.

Although the bureau did not approve the runway extension right away, a host of smaller projects were accepted. A new fueling system that accepted credit cards

This single-engine plane landed at the Burnett County Airport recently.

The airport expanded one of its two runways to 5,000 feet.

However, single-engine planes such as this one do not need a runway that long to land or to take off.

- Photos by Sherill Summer

Now that the runway has been expanded, the fuel systems might need to be updated to allow faster pumping of jet fuel to fuel the larger planes that are expected to use the airport. was installed in 1996. The terminal was remodeled in 1999 and an Automated Weather Observing System was installed in 2000. Paving a taxiway and Russ Road near the hangars and installing a lighted windsock and erecting some fencing around the airport were some projects in 2001 and the county built a countyowned hangar in 2002.

Also in 2002, Burnett County learned that the expansion of the runway was approved even though there were no federal funds for the project that year. The county set aside $200,000 for the project.

Engineering work to create plans for the expansion were started that year, with expected construction of the runway to be in 2005 or 2006.

The timeline for the project turned out to be optomistic. The airport learned that there were several obstructions to an expanded runway that had to be corrected before construction could start. Brush and small trees were crowding in on the existing runways. The land where the runway was to be expanded was still forested. The Gandy Dancer recreational trail cut across land earmarked for the expanded runway, and the airport had never exercised its easement rights to cut taller trees around the airport growing into the airspace, including trees in the Amsterdam Slough Wildlife Area located west of the airport across Old Hwy. 35.

Logging county-owned land where the runway was to be expanded and clearing brush and small trees crowding the existing runways were simple enough obstructions cleared by county departments.

The moving of the Gandy Dancer Trail was a bit more complicated because it involved the Department of Transportation that oversees all of the state’s recreational trails. It was moved out of the way of the runway in the fall of 2008 and the spring of 2009.

The last obstruction to get approval for was removing trees from the Amsterdam Slough Wildlife Area, a federal fish and wildlife property that normally doesn’t allow airports to cross into wildlife airspace, much less cut trees that are an obstruction, but the airport finally received permission to remove the trees in April.

The trees are being removed now, at the time of this publication, along with other trees that are part of Amsterdam Slough that are scheduled to be clear-cut.

Another potential obstruction has been identified. The intersection adjacent to the airport, Hwys. 35 / 70, is expected to become a roundabout in the next few years. Roundabouts usually require lighting that would project into the airspace of the expanded runway, and earlier this year the Bureau of Aeronautics suggested acquiring land around the airport if it was available to give the DOT options when designing the roundabout insuring the roundabout wouldn’t be an obstruction to the runway.

Land was not purchased around the runway, however, and the runway was redesigned and moved away from the intersection to correct the potential obstruction.

2009 was a busy year for the Bureau of Aeronautics. 73 different airports around the state completed projects, including seven airports that received federal stim-

ulus money.

Even before the runway was expanded, the Burnett County Airport was classified as a Transport - Corporate airport which generally have a runway length of more than 4,500 feet and handle corporate jets, small passenger and cargo jet aircraft.

Not only is the Burnett County Airport the largest airport in Burnett County, it is larger than Spooner, Shell Lake, and larger than the two airports of Polk County in Amery and Osceola.

Two years ago it was estimated that the Burnett County Airport had about 14,700 operations a year, or about 20 planes a day. But none of the 14,700 required a runway length of 5,000 feet. Even though the expanded runway had been open since October, no larger planes, requiring the 5,000-foot runway have yet used the airport.

Airport manager Jeremy Sickler explains that it might be to early to determine the airport use now that the runway has been expanded because runway information has not been updated in official airport databases. Without the undated information, larger planes may not be allowed to land because of insurance reasons. A case in point was earlier this year when the FAA flew over the new runway after the runway was complete during an inspection flight. The pilots could look down and see the expanded runway, but they were not allowed to land because the airport data had not been undated yet. The FAA’s flight regulations didn’t allow it.

Now that the runway has been expanded, Sickler and the Burnett County supervisors on the infrastructure committee are looking to the future and deciding what projects should be next for the airport, even though no other project would probably be attempted before 2011. Because the the runway expansion was under budget and there will be an estimated $65,000 left over from money that was set aside for the airport in 2001, Sickler and the supervisors are not sure if that money will still be designated for the airport.

One need that the airport has now that larger planes can land there is a new fueling system that can pump jet fuel faster.

Sickler already has in mind a pump that can pump up to 60 gallons a minute, up from 12 to 16 gallons a minute, something that would be much appreciated if the plane has to take on hundreds of gallons of fuel at any given time.

At the December infrastructure committee on Wednesday, Dec. 16, the supervisors passed a motion for Sickler to test the current tanks and to advise the committee of what needs to to be done to petition for a new jet fuel system. The six-year plan also needs to be updated and the supervisors will look over possible projects to see what else might be petitioned for in the next few years.

New six-year plan Now that the airport runway expansion is complete, a new six-year plan for the airport is being created. Some possible projects have been identified. The pumps that pump jet fuel are slow, and if the envisioned air traffic arrives there will be a need for a faster fuel pump.

Airport administrator Jeremy Sickler is developing a commercial lease to offer for those who maintain hangers for business purposes. And the airport’s current designation between commercial and recreation areas might be scrapped in favor of lot sizes. The airport set up areas for commercial use away from recreation hangers many years ago, but the strategy is not used at many smaller airports anymore.

Instead, lot size, which in turn dictates hangar size is used to separate different usages. Where current hangars are, there is little room for big planes, but in the area called the southeast development there are large lot sizes on which hangars could be built to accommodate large plans or businesses that require parking and facilities with bathrooms.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 11

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Whispering Pines zoning goes back to committee

by Nancy Jappe SIREN – After hearing a number of comments regarding proposed zoning changes for the Whispering Pines Camp property on Spirit Lake, the Burnett County Board of Supervisors approved a motion sending the issue back to the land committee for further consideration.

“A lot of good ideas (came) up today,” commented Supervisor Maury Miller, the land committee chairman who made the motion at the board’s Dec. 17 meeting.

“I think our committee should give (them) some consideration.”

Before making his motion, Miller commented: “All of us on the committee would prefer to see this (meaning the camp property) as it is now. The committee did vote, 5-2, to approve the (zoning-change) request.”

Pines Heather Holbrook’s par- Whispering Camp has been owned ents live on Spirit Lake, on by the Wisconsin Conferwhich the Whispering Pines ence of the United Camp property is located. Methodist Church since Holbrook questioned the January 1953. Due to deuse of the property for home clining financial support lots during this time of lack in recent years compared of home financing and the to other camps owned desire of the public for inex- by the conference, the pensive housing. decision to sell the camp, and another camp owned by the conference at Byron Center, was made at the conference’s annual meeting in Appleton in June.

Since that time, a group of seven local investors, including two men who are part-time residents on Spirit Lake, put in an offer to buy the property, an offer that was accepted by the Wisconsin Conference. Two of those investors, Michael Ehret and Kevin Fossum, attended the county board meeting along with their hired surveyor, Mark Krause.

Michael Ehret (L) and Ehret read a statement Kevin Fossum, two of from the conference approvseven investors who ing the buyers and their use have an accepted offer to of the property.

“The purchase the Whispering church says it is in the best Pines property on Spirit use of the property,” Ehret Lake, were at the Burnett said. He explained that beCounty Board of Supervi- fore definite plans for use of sors meeting Thursday, the property are finalized, Dec. 17, to see if their re- the investors need to know quest for rezone would the status of their rezone rebe approved. They heard quest. “We are all interested the motion that sent their in developing the property rezone request back to in ways that are the least committee for further harmful,” Ehret said. consideration. – All pho- The investors have asked for a change from mostly tos by Nancy Jappe forestry (except for a small

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Surveyor Mark Krause brought along, to the Burnett County Board’s Dec. 17 meeting, charts showing the rezone request made for the 171-acre Whispering Pines property (into three separate areas). The rezone request from a group of seven investors, known as Peaceful Woods and Water, LLC, was sent back to committee by vote of the county board after a motion was made by the chair of the county’s land information committee. portion along the lake frontage to RR-1, rural residential) along with Ag-1 and RR-3 over the rest of the 171-acre property. The hope is to develop 18 lots along the shore of Spirit Lake.

Approval of the requested zoning has already been given by the town of Trade Lake, in which the property is located, and a vote by the Burnett County Land Use and Information Committee. Final approval of the zoning, before it becomes effective, has to come from the county board.

A public hearing before the land use and information committee was held Nov. 3. At that time, members of the public were given the opportunity to present their objections.

Public comments A number of people in the audience asked for the right to make public comments to the board, comments to which the board could only listen but not make any response.

Before the public response, Zoning Administrator Jim Flanigan pointed out that this is a large tract of land with three requested zoning proposals, one along the shoreline and two in the back of the property. The zoning issue is the only item that is coming to the county board at this time. All the areas in the shoreland zone would fall under the county’s shoreland zoning district, with certain regulations applying, i.e. minimum lot size of 150 feet with 150-foot lake frontage.

Heather Holbrook from the Twin Cites, whose parents live on Spirit Lake, questioned why people would buy this type of property, especially when funding isn’t readily available. She mentioned her generation’s tendency toward being financially conservative, and zeroed in on the loss of the quiet and calm development possible for her autistic son when he comes to visit his grandparents.

Web Macomber, Washburn County zoning administrator and former director of Whispering Pines Camp, stated that he never thought he’d be involved in trying to stop a rezone. Macomber said that he has “nothing to throw at this” except for a different perspective, foresight and vision.

“This property was set aside for a special purpose. It is some of the most majestic land I have ever seen, truly a jewel of the county and township as well,” Macomber commented. “It could be like the Forts and state parks.

The last thing the county needs right now is more homes (pointing to homes selling at low prices and a two-year supply of homes for sale). This definitely is not the best use of the property.”

Macomber went on to say that the infrastructure of the camp is in the best state he has ever seen it. “To change that for something the county has plenty of … Other groups are interested in purchasing this property to do something along the lines that has been done. I think this land is just too unique. To use it needs a different vision.”

Macomber asked the board to table their decision indefinitely to give these other groups a chance to get a different vision for financing.

Lydell Larson, whose property is next to Whispering Pines, asked the board not to be too quick in approving the zoning change, and said that three investors were ready to put up nearly $500,000 to keep the property for its original purposes.

Julie Peterson, caretaker for the property before it was closed, referred to stewardship of the land and the need to keep the land for recreational purposes. “I believe the leadership of the county and township didn’t listen to the people and their comments,” she said, asking the board to look seriously at what the rezone means for the county’s

Washburn County Zoning Administrator Web Dick Klawitter spoke Macomber, who is a for- out opposing the remer director of Whisper- zone of Whispering ing Pines Camp, spoke of Pines property, asking the majesty of the prop- that other groups be erty and the good shape allowed to get financits infrastructure is in at ing, purchase the the current time.

Ma- property and restore it comber asked that a deci- to its original purpose sion on rezone be for ministry. postponed indefinitely to allow other groups the vision for stewardship. chance to present their vi- Another neighbor, Mike Grotheim, expressed his sion for financing. concern for the number of lots involved in the rezone, and asked why the sale was pushed through so fast.

Kathy Java and Eunice Early expressed concern for the environment along the lake and preserving the lakeshore.

Norm Peterson asked why the seven investors wanted to rezone the property and his concern about their overall plan for the property.

A woman who is the fourth generation living on property at Iverson Beach said she would like to see a comprehensive plan and environmental impact study done before a rezone would go through.

Dick Klawitter said he is not in favor of the rezone, and recommended postponement of the decision for six months to allow further study to be made that would allow other ministries that are seeking to raise finances in a short time to purchase the property and restore it to what it was originally for - ministry purposes.

Donna Chell told the board she is opposed to the rezone, saying once it is done, it can’t be redone.

Surveyor Mark Krause corrected some of the misinformation that he said had been presented, stating that he had followed the county’s comprehensive plan and matched the rezone request with other zoning on the lake.

He said that the Whispering Pines property is the “best developed property on the lake,” and that the 4,500-foot shoreline would be developed into a maximum of 18-19 lots at this time.

Julie Peterson’s comment was: “I have no problem with the buyers. I am asking for time out (to see what) the county wants to do with the land and see how we can best use that property.”

Kathy Java asked about the county’s willingness to buy the property. There was no reaction by the board as this was all a part of public comment at the Thursday, Dec. 17, Burnett County Board meeting.

502150 17-19L

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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Appeals court judge dismisses lawsuit against township Ayers pledges to continue argument

by Gary King EAU CLAIRE - A civil lawsuit brought against the town of Clam Falls in 2007 by one of its residents has been dismissed by a state Court of Appeals judge, upholding an earlier ruling by a Polk County Circuit Court judge.

Bradley E. Ayers claimed the town board conspired to place a 55-mile-per-hour speed-limit sign on 85th Street, an “unshouldered, winding, hilly gravel” road that provides access to his home, as punishment for his “exercise of good citizenship” in questioning township practices regarding quality of life, the environment and safety.

In a letter to the editor in this week’s edition of the Leader, Ayers chronicles his fight with the town board and pledges to keep the issue alive.

Judge Gregory Peterson of the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, District III, issued his finding Dec. 8, upholding a 2008 ruling by Judge Robert Rasmussen stating the claim by Bradley E. Ayers was frivolous and ordered Ayers to pay reasonable attorney’s fees and costs

incurred in defending the appeal. In addition he sanctioned Ayers’ attorney, Diane Sapp, and ordered her to pay the court $150.

The town board, represented by Hudson attorney Mark Gherty, alleged that Ayers’ claim was not supported by existing law because township decisions about speed-limit postings are legislative determinations and, as such, the board is immune from a lawsuit.

In his ruling, Peterson stated that since Ayers’ claims “were in fact unwarranted by existing law,” and that he had been given “fair, clear and repeated warnings,” sanctions could be imposed if he didn’t withdraw his claims, and that a motion by the town board to sanction Ayers for filing a frivolous appeal was appropriate.

Ayers’ attorney, Sapp, was sanctioned by Judge Peterson for violating the rules of appellate procedure “in numerous aspects,” including filing a brief with numerous statements of fact with no citation to the record.

Sapp, according to Peterson’s ruling, claimed she was at a disadvantage because she did not have a complete record of the file sent to the appeals court. “It was Sapp’s obligation to obtain parts of the record she required,” Peterson ruled in imposing the sanction. He also wrote that Sapp’s brief was “riddled with typo-

graphical and grammatical errors, compounding the court’s difficulty in discerning a coherent argument.”

“Despite my pleas for removal of the sign which effectively sanctioned an insane rate of speed on the narrow roadway constituting a grave safety hazard to anyone or anything on the one mile dead-end street,” Ayers writes in a letter to the editor, “for six months, I prevailed upon the township to remove the 55 mph sign. I hired my own highway engineering traffic experts to survey the road and determine a maximum safe speed. Their conclusion was 25 mph.”

Ayers said the town removed the sign after he filed his lawsuit.

In courtroom comments made in 2008 regarding the case, Judge Rasmussen said neither he, nor any other judge, should substitute their judgment on a matter of legislative discretion.

“Whether you think it made common sense or not, whether I think it made common sense or not, whether the majority of the people in the township of Clam Falls thought it made sense or not, that decision is one which they are entitled to make in their exercise of their legislative discretion.”

Frederic School praised for audit

Current year finances on track

by Gregg Westigard FREDERIC – The Frederic School District ended its fiscal year with a fund balance within the recommended range for reserves. Expenses were below the budgeted amount. These were some of the details from the audit for the fiscal year that ended June 30. Larry Stotz delivered the report to the Frederic School Board at its monthly meeting Monday, Dec. 21. The board also heard that expenses for the present are close to target.

The district ended the year with a general fund balance of $883,856. That was $207,000 more than budgeted. Total expenditures were $5,303,884, which were $330,178 less than budgeted and $347,313 less than revenues. The lowered costs meant that less money had to be taken from the fund balance over the year to cover expenses.

Stotz noted a major change in revenues. State-equalized aids, 39 percent of the revenue at $2,772,097, was cut $365,000 from the previous year. Most of that loss was picked up by a new federal grant of $357,000 in stimulus money. That money might not be available next year.

The school district has an “excellent operating crew”

handling its finances, Stotz told the board. He said the records are getting better each year and the staff is easy to work with.

Superintendent Gerald Tischer said the finances for the first five months of the current year through November are on budget. He said some heavier expenses were covered in the first part of the year. The budget for the current year is $73,000 lower than the previous year.

One fiscal highlight noted is a reduction in losses from the food service accounts. Tischer said staff has been working with families to collect meals money. Less than $800 in lunch money is past due at present. Last year at this time the total past due was over $4,000.

Glenn Meier from Bremer Bank explained how the

bank works with the district on a daily basis to cover the district’s cash flow. In simple terms, the district has a checking account, an investment account for reserves and a loan account. When the checking account is low, at periods between the receipt of funds, the bank transfers money first from the investment account and then from the loan fund on a short-term basis. A close handling of funds means that when there is money on hand, that money earns interest. When money is short for a period, the district draws on its loan fund. Daily oversight of the accounts keeps the interest cost on the borrowed funds to a minimum, Meier said.

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DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 13

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

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

It’s official; Engstrom is on her way

Siren native Molly Engstrom makes U.S. Olympic Team

by Marty Seeger BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – Of the 23 hockey players selected to the U.S. Women’s National Team, only 21 were be chosen to represent the United States at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada. Among those 21 players selected to represent our nation in the 2010 games in February, is 26-year-old Siren native Molly Engstrom.

“I think it’s sinking in,” said Engstrom, who spoke by phone the day after the announcement was made official at the Mall of America® in Bloomington, Minn., on Thursday, Dec. 17. Engstrom has been busy training, as well as playing on the Qwest tour throughout the fall and winter with the Women’s National Team, which was chosen in early September. When the team was officially whittled down to just 21 players last week, Engstrom knew it would be a tough thing for all of the team members.

“I think in general our team is very close, and no matter who the two players were going to be, we knew that it was going to be a hard day,” she said, but added, “although we had to let two players go, you gotta move on and I think that we’re ready to do that.”

The two-time Olympian has a bit of a break for Christmas before resuming play on the Qwest tour beginning Wednesday, Dec. 30, when Team U.S.A. will go up against Canada for the third time this fall. Tickets for the game can only be found on www.usahockey.com, and will be a good preview of what’s to come. The team has already faced Canada twice as part of the Qwest tour, and the U.S. has been defeated in both by scores of 5-2 and 4-2, but aside from the Qwest tour, the U.S. has been very dominant against Canada.

“It’s very competitive. We’ve been going head to head with Canada the past couple of years,” Engstrom said.

In those two years the U.S. has defeated Canada on their way to two consecutive world championships – which has never happened in U.S.A. hockey

Extra Points

Siren’s Molly Engstrom, (second from left) poses with a few members of Team U.S.A. last week after the announcement ceremonies at the Mall of America.® – Photo courtesy of Judy Engstrom history.

“We’ve had a couple of successful years, but they’re not going to roll over and give it to us, obviously. They’re training just as hard as we are. Everything is elevated in an Olympic year,” Engstrom said.

Canada is loaded with talent, and returns 16 Olympians from the 2006 Olympic games. Team U.S.A. features six returning Olympians, including Engstrom, as well as two players that are back for their fourth Olympic games, Jenny Potter of Edina, Minn., and Angela Ruggiero of Simi Valley, Calif. Engstrom is one of only six defensemen.

“We’re all just trying to hone in right now,” Engstrom said, and added that coach Mark Johnson has been doing an unbelievable job with the team. Despite dropping their previous two games to Canada, Johnson reiterates to his team that their journey towards Olympic gold is similar to a marathon, and you can’t win a marathon in the first couple of miles.

“We’re just back to the drawing board every time we play them, and we’re trying to figure it out, but it’s good; it’s a positive experience and we have a positive outlook right now and I’m feeling

good about it,” Engstrom said.

The Olympic games will certainly be a battle for Team U.S.A. While they have their sights set on Canada, other teams could surprise the world too. Sweden and Finland could be tough opponents, as they proved in 2006. The U.S. lost to Sweden in the semifinals and took home the bronze medal. Finland also defeated the United States in the 2008 World Championships, yet the U.S. came back to defeat Canada for their second world title. Sweden also defeated Canada in a game during a Four Nations Tournament in 2009.

Engstrom said the 2010 Olympic team is very different from the team in 2006, in terms of camaraderie and relationships. She says the youthfulness of the team brings a lot of energy, as well as some comic relief.

“I’m excited to go to the rink every day and spend some time with my teammates, and learn and get better,” Engstrom said. When the puck drops for the first time in February, it will only add to the excitement.

“To be able to be back again, to compete again on such a high level, and be on such a big stage is exciting,” Engstrom said.

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The USA women’s hockey team poses for their first team photo at the Mall of America® on Thursday, Dec. 17. The 21-member team includes defensmen, and Siren native, Molly Engstrom. – Photo courtesy of usahockey

••• WISCONSIN DELLS – St. Croix Falls graduate Dustin Raygor wrestles for Saint John’s University. Saint John’s is ranked No. 10 nationally. The team went 2-1 at the Wisconsin-Whitewater Duals at Wisconsin Dells on Saturday, Dec. 12.

Raygor wrestled in the 174-lb. weight class and was defeated by Reid Dickerson with an 8-2 Dustin Raygor decision during the match. On Dec. 11, Raygor pinned his Ridgewater opponent in 2:08 and on Dec. 9, Raygor tallied an 8-3 decision over his St. Olaf competitor. After the holiday break, the team will compete at the Ridgewater College Open on Saturday, Jan. 9.

••• SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Former Luck basketball standout Brennan Olson is red-shirting in his first year with the Augustana Vikings men’s basketball team. The Vikings have just two losses this season, against Arizona 92-76, and a 63-49 loss to the University of Mary. Olson was the valedictorian of his Luck Class of 2009, and is a premed student at Augustana.

••• IRVING, Texas – Frederic graduate Becca Anderson and her Lawrence University women’s basketball team took their first win of the season, over the University of Dallas, on Dallas’ court Sunday, Dec. 20. Anderson scored one 3-pointer during her six minutes of playing time. The 70-65 win over Dallas brings Lawrence University to a record of 1-6 for this season.

••• GREEN BAY – The Seattle Seahawks at Green Bay Packers game is being broadcast Sunday, Dec. 27, beginning at noon on WXCX 105.7 FM. ••• MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Minnesota Vikings at Chicago game is being broadcast Monday, Dec. 28, beginning at 7:30 p.m., on WLMX 104.9 FM. ••• MADISON – The Illinois-Chicago at Wisconsin Badgers basketball game on Sunday, Dec. 27, can be heard on 1260 AM beginning at 2:30 p.m.

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

SPORTS RESULTS DEADLINES: WEDNESDAY - MONDAY: 1 p.m. the following business day. TUESDAY: 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Missed deadlines mean no coverage that week!

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

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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Webster boys surprise Pirates at home

second half alone. Pirate Brent Myers added 11 points of his own to the effort.

Webster managed just nine points in the third quarter, while the Pirates seemed to gather a head of steam and chug forward, narrowing the Tiger lead continually. That final quarter was a reversal of earlier play, as the Pirates all but overcame their earlier deficit with 22 points, making it a nail-biter for the Tigers and coach Hedrick.

The Pirates used near-perfect prowess at the free-throw line to make the Tiger fouls hurt, and they only missed one charity toss in the whole second half.

Webster was also quite steady at the line in the final moments, converting 11 of 17 freebies as the Pirates used fouls to stop the clock and recover. The Tigers managed 19 final-quarter points, which proved enough to hold the Pirates off in the end for a 52-48 victory, and the title of lone undefeated squad to emerge from the Grantsburg gym.

“It was by far our worst effort of the year,” Grantsburg head coach Nick Hallberg stated bluntly. “We went away from everything that has made us successful this far into the season.”

Tigers hold off Pirate boys in premier matchup Webster 52, Grantsburg 48

by Greg Marsten GRANTSBURG – It was quite the anticipated match on Friday. Two undefeated squads and a rivalry that seems to be worth the price of admission, regardless of coach or players.

The Webster Tigers boys basketball team made sure the very young Grantsburg Pirates earned every point Friday, Dec. 18 at the Pirates cove, and they held off a Pirate charge with across-the-board scoring and their unusual style of swapping players that keeps every opponent on the edge of confusion.

The Pirates had a slow first half, scoring just 14 points total, compared to Webster’s first-half tally of 24 points, meaning Grantsburg played catch-up all through the second half.

However, a 10-point lead at the half over Grantsburg is not enough to start warming up the team bus, as Webster coach Randy Hedrick was forced to defend steady play from Trevor Thompson, who managed to rack up 19 points in the losing effort, including 13 points in the

Webster’s Mitchell Elliot fights with Grantsburg’s Brent Myers and Seth Coy over a rebound. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

LEFT: Webster Tigers Tim Sundstrom flies up for a basket in the Grantsburg Pirates gym during the teams matchup on Friday, Dec. 18.

Tiger girls take nail-biter against Pirates Johnson in the paint, who single-handedly outscored the whole Pirate squad by one point in the quarter. Both squads evened out their attacks a bit in the second quarter, as they carried a 31-21 Webster lead into the locker rooms.

Grantsburg made steady improvements as the game continued, scoring progressively more points each quarter, and narrowing the Tiger gap. By the final quarter, they were just a few points behind, thanks in part to two 3-pointers from Kortney Morrin, who finished with 12 points.

But Webster was steady enough to hold on for the win, again relying on Michelle Gibbs for tallies, who buried two shots from beyond the arc in the final quarter alone, as part of her gamehigh total of 16 points, on her squad’s 5552 final.

Grantsburg outscores Webster in second half Webster 55, Grantsburg 52

by Greg Marsten GRANTSBURG – The Webster Tigers girls basketball team won a nail-biter Friday, Dec. 18, over the hosting Grantsburg Pirates, 55-52.

The game was solidly in the Tigers’ court for most of the first three quarters, with Webster on top by 10 points at the half, but a renewed vigor by the Pirates almost turned the results around completely.

Grantsburg outscored the Tigers by a 31 to 24 margin in that second half, and gave fans of both teams a chance to test their heart rates.

Webster came out of the starting blocks hard, racking up 21 first-quarter points, thanks in part to 11 points from Mary

Pirate Liz Gaffney takes a shot over Tiger Chris Stoll. – Photos by Brenda Sommerfeld

LEFT: Webster’s Kendra Spurgeon passes the ball past Grantsburg’s Carly Larson on Friday, Dec. 18.

Vikings suffer first loss of the season Unity still looking for win No. 1

the game and three players drew four fouls. In all, the Vikes had 23 fouls in the game.

Rush City, Minn., 57, Frederic 51

Baldwin/Woodville 48, Unity 20 BALDWIN – Unity had trouble getting things going in Baldwin last Thursday, Dec. 17, only scoring eight first-half points and 12 second-half points.

“Mentally, we didn’t show up,” said Eagles coach Chuck Holicky. “We had no focus.”

Despite the struggle to get their first win of the season, Holicky said there was one positive in that his team was able to handle Baldwin’s full-court pressure well. Yet, the team just couldn’t convert when going two on one, or three on two.

Crystal Donahue, Brittany Petznick and Marisa Hacker led the team in scoring with four points apiece.

by Marty Seeger RUSH CITY, Minn. – The Frederic girls basketball team lost their first game of the season across the border in Rush City, Minn. A first-half tally of 14 points for the Vikings, and a 34-point first-half effort by Rush City put the Vikings in a hole early. Despite outscoring Rush City in the second half 35-24, the comeback wasn’t enough to pull out the nonconference win.

Chrissy Chenal led the Vikings with 15 points and shot 5 of 10 from the freethrow line. Kendra Wells had 13 points in the game and Jade Johnson had seven, while Corissa Schmidt added six. The Vikings shot 20 of 31 attempts from the foul line, while two athletes fouled out of

Viking Vanessa Neumann aims for a shot in a previous game this year. – File photo by Marty Seeger

LEFT: Unity’s Sam Ince goes for a shot under the basket in a previous game. – File photo by Greg Marsten

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 15

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Saints solid in second half over Siren

Snap three-game skid St. Croix Falls 61, Siren 53

by Marty Seeger ST. CROIX FALLS – The St. Croix Falls boys snapped a three-game losing streak last Friday night at home against the Dragons. It was their first conferencewin of the season and a solid second-half effort, mostly because the first half featured some key shooting from the outside from Siren.

Elijah Hinze was unstoppable for the Dragons in the first half, hitting five shots from beyond the arc and leading the Dragons to 17 points. Murdock Smith also had a 3-pointer in the first quarter, but the Saints kept pace; something they haven’t been able to do in their previous losses.

“The last few games we have played, the 3-point shot was our Achilles so to speak,” said Saints coach Todd Voss.

“Teams were just lighting up the floor with them – it’s amazing how many good 3-point shooters there are.”

Kyle Christensen had a nice effort in the first quarter with nine points, and Matt Vold had a big 3-pointer before the end of the first quarter to help keep the game at an 18-18 tie. In the second quarter, it was all Siren as Hinze hit a pair of

Saints junior Marcus Campbell goes up for a jump shot against the Dragons last Friday night. The Saints won their first conference game of the season. – Photos by Marty Seeger

Siren senior Andrew Brown fights for a rebound while Josh Larcom of St. Croix Falls tries to take it back.

3s and Smith connected on one to help pull the Dragons out to a five-point lead.

Siren jumped out to a 35-28 lead at the half.

“Hinze came out firing and couldn’t

miss. Fortunately the second half they didn’t drop like they did the first. I was very happy to see our play in the second half versus Siren,” Voss said.

Siren held onto a two-point lead for the

first four minutes of the third quarter, until Cory Gebhard hit a 3-pointer and Christenson hit a layup to give the Saints a 41-38 lead. It was a major momentum shift for the Saints as they held a 46-38 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Christensen was consistent throughout the game for the Saints, leading with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Zach Christenson had 15 points and six rebounds.

Austin Whittenberger and Vold each had eight points, and Gebhard had a great night defensively with five steals.

“Defensively we stepped up and I think they had only scored six points in the second half with about three minutes to go in the game. Hopefully this is a sign of what we are capable of. We really have some good scorers they need to have the confidence to shoot, but sometimes we are just too impatient, and have to learn to shoot in the flow of the game.

The conference is anyone’s right now.

Most teams are very even, so it is going to be an exciting race,” Voss said.

Siren had five 3-pointers in the fourth quarter but couldn’t pull out the late comeback. Hinze had 20 points to lead the Dragons and Smith had 17 points.

Hall ended with seven points and Andrew Brown, who is normally a consistent scorer for the Dragons, had four points.

Siren holds on at St. Croix Falls

Saints hold Siren to just 15 first-half points Siren 41, St. Croix Falls 25

by Marty Seeger WEBSTER – The St. Croix Falls girls gave Siren all they could handle in the Saints first conference game of the season, holding the Dragons to just three points in the first quarter and 15 points at the half.

“I thought we did not play well at all,” said Siren coach Ryan Karsten. “I give the credit to SCF for coming ready to play and giving us their best effort. St. Croix has been the toughest place for us to play over the last few years in the conference, so I am very happy to leave there with a win.”

Marissa Campeau led the Saints in the first quarter with four points and Sarah Petznick added three points to give them 9-3 after the first quarter. Campeau had 11 points on the night with seven rebounds. Cortney Rasmussen led with eight rebounds, and Petznick had six rebounds and four steals.

Despite a big 3-pointer at the start of the second quarter by Ashley Guevara,

Caitlyn Olson of St. Croix Falls drives past Siren defender Sarah Howe in the teams conference game last Friday, Dec. 18.

Siren's Meghan Baasch goes up for a layup against SCF freshman Sydney Geisness. – Photos by Marty Seeger

Siren’s scoring troubles continued and the Saints led 15-11 at the half. Down by as much as six points in the third quarter, the Dragons slowly started putting things together, and with a 3-pointer by Carley Emery, the Dragons took a 19-17 lead with just under three minutes to go

in the third quarter. The Saints took back the lead shortly after when Campeau hit a big shot under the basket and hit her free throw to make it a 20-19 game in favor of the Saints. Jamie Fischbach responded big on the next play with a nice layup, and then quickly hit another

layup on a fast break created on a steal

by Sarah Howe. Siren took a 23-20 lead into the fourth-quarter, and slowly started to pull away with the victory, holding the Saints to just five fourth quarter points.

“If you win a road game in this conference, you are very lucky,” Karsten said.

“I thought our effort in the first half was very poor. To score 11 points in a half of basketball with the team I have is inexcusable. We have to do a much better job of focusing and getting ready to play every game! Teams are not going to lay down for us and if this year’s team thinks we can live off of the reputation of other Siren teams they are sadly mistaken.”

Despite the slow first half Karsten was pleased with his balanced scoring effort.

Emery had 13 points, Fishbach had 10, Ashley Guevara had nine, Meghan Baasch scored eight, and Howe had one.

Karsten was also happy with their defensive efforts, which included the efforts from Daphne Hubbell, who helped slow the scoring of Petznick and Campeau.

“Our defensive effort the entire night was strong, and to hold a good offensive team to 25 points that just came off of a 63-point effort is really good for us,” Karsten said.

Siren stops Turtle Lake Pirates fall to Braham Siren 54, Turtle Lake 41

by Marty Seeger TURTLE LAKE – The Dragons pulled out a big win over Turtle Lake on Monday, Dec. 21, in a tough nonconference test. The Lakers stood at 5-1, with their only loss coming against Clayton just three days earlier by a score of 41-34.

“Alex Tschida is their point guard, who is a load to control and then they have some very quality post players, Ashley Lahti and Olivia Westlund. Our

goal was to control Tschida and Lahti and make another player or two beat us, and Trischia Hanson stepped up for them with 19 points,” said Siren coach Ryan Karsten.

Siren played a solid game the whole way through, and despite feeling a little under the weather, Ashley Guevara poured on her best game of the year with 22 points. Carley Emery added 21 points.

“The two juniors lead us, but that doesn’t mean others didn’t play well.

Meghan Baasch, Sarah Howe, Abigail Mitchell and Deanna Phernetton all turned in quality performances to set up those girls in positions to score and help

the team win,” Karsten said.

The Dragons led 9-2 after the first quarter and never let the Lakers get closer than six points the rest of the game.

“Overall, it was a quality win against a quality opponent on the road. It was a great way to enter the holiday season.

We know where we are strong and where we need to get better at over the break! I will take a 4-2 start, but I expect even better things to happen for us after Christmas if we continue to work hard,” Karsten said.

Braham 105, Grantsburg 41 GRANTSBURG – The Braham, Minn., Bombers stormed into Grantsburg on Monday, Dec. 21, scoring 105 points and holding the Pirates to 41 points. Rebekah Dahlman led the Bombers with 38 points and three others scored in the double digits for the win.

Granstsburg was down 25-7 after the first quarter and 52-13 at halftime. Kortney Morrin led the Pirates with 13 points and Liz Gaffney added seven points with five rebounds. The Pirates play their next game at Glenwood City Tuesday, Dec. 29, beginning at 6 p.m.

PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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LFG wins dual match against Turtle Lake/Clayton Go 6-0 in matches LFG 40, Turtle Lake/Clayton 30

by Marty Seeger TURTLE LAKE – The Luck/Frederic/ Grantsburg wrestling team finished last Thursday’s dual meet at Turtle Lake with their first team win of the season.

“The kids came in with a lot of confidence,” said coach Chris Bartlett. “I even gave them a little more pressure, saying to them that we needed pins to be able to win the match.”

The kids did just that as they recorded six pins in their seven total matches.

Claire Erickson of Frederic got the first team pin of the night over Matt Larson in 1:17 at 171 lbs.

LFG's Austin Eskola defeated Shell Lake's Dillon Hopke during the Osceola Duals held at Osceola last weekend. Results from the tournament will be featured in next week's edition of the Inter-County Leader. – Photo submitted

“When Claire went out and pinned his guy in the first period, all the guys got pumped up. We never stopped rolling from there. The kids are being aggressive and are taking better and better shots every week,” Bartlett said.

Ray Kurkowski defeated Brock Lien by a 12-4 decision at 103 lbs., before Evan Ryan got a pin over Mitch Wanner in just 37 seconds at 112 lbs.

At 130 lbs., Austin Eskola pinned Landon Burhop in 5:27, and Brent Johnson pinned Nathan Thornwall in 3:59 at 135 lbs. In the final match of the evening at 145 lbs., Ben Ackerley got a quick pin over Craig Lasley in 37 seconds.

LFG’s next dual meet isn’t until Thursday, Jan. 7, when LFG hosts Clear Lake at Frederic High School beginning at 7 p.m.

Saints crushed by Clear Lake

Joe Raygor wins award at Chisago Lakes Tourney Clear Lake 54, St. Croix Falls 18

by Marty Seeger CLEAR LAKE – It was a tough night on the mat for the St. Croix Falls wrestling team at Clear Lake Thursday, Dec. 17.

Four Saints grabbed team points including Zack Podorski, Ryan Nussbaum, Jake Rademacher and Joe Raygor, yet Clear Lake proved they’ll be a dominant force in the conference this year.

Podorski earned a pin over Ben Anderson-Berrier in 1:02 in the 125-lb. class.

Nussbaum, at 145 lbs., also grabbed a win by pin over Tyler Strenke in 58 seconds.

Raygor had a close 3-1 decision-win over Garret Paulson, and Rademacher defeated Darren Lee in an exciting 7-2

Jake Rademacher wrestled Clear Lake's Darren Lee at 160 lbs., and defeated him by a 7-2 decision. – Photos by Marty Seeger

decision. Shaw Amundson lost by a close 7-4 decision to Erik Ullrich at 135 lbs., and Spencer Walters lost a close 4-2 decision against Josh Morris. Other than that, the night belonged to the Warriors, who recorded a total of seven pins. The Saints next wrestling matches will be at the Northern Badger tournament in River Falls on Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 29-30.

SCF at Chisago Lakes Tournament CHISAGO LAKES, Minn. – St. Croix Falls wrestled in a tough tournament on

the other side of the border in Chisago Lakes, Minn., on Friday afternoon, Dec. 18. Three wrestlers ended the night as champions including Joe Raygor, Shaw Amundson and Ryan Nussbaum.

Spencer Walters took second place, Jake Rademacher came in third, James Klassen had a fifth-place finish and Garrett Radinzel and Elijah Schaaf placed sixth overall.

Raygor also took home honors with winning the Most Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament award.

Saints wrestler Ryan Nussbaum, 145 lbs., squeezes Clear Lake’s Tyler Strenke on his way to a pin last Thursday night at Clear Lake.

Lady Blizzard ties solid Menomonie team Remained tied after eight-minute overtime Blizzard 5, Menomonie 5

by Greg Marsten MENOMONIE – The Burnett Blizzard girls hockey team managed to tie the very solid Menomonie squad on Saturday, Dec. 19, in Menomonie.

The Blizzard girls came out strong, according to Blizzard head coach Tim Bennett.

“We really looked good the first 10 minutes of the game,” he said. “Our passing was crisp and precise and we were outskating Menomonie all over the ice.”

The Blizzard girls took a quick twogoal lead. Samantha O’Brien scored first

Lady Blizzard’s Alex Lonetti looks to the goal in an earlier game. – File photo by Marty Seeger

for the Blizzard, unassisted and she scored again a few minutes later after taking a helper pass from Kassie Lien.

However, the Blizzard girls couldn’t hold the lead and gave it up by the end of the first period, going into the locker room tied 2-2 after the first period.

“We had a little trouble with Menomonie floating their two fastest skaters down the middle of the ice and getting by our defense,” Bennett noted.

After making some adjustments the Blizzard came out in the second and took a quick lead on a breakaway goal by Samantha O’Brien, with an assist from Paige Johnson. O’Brien ended the night with a hat trick.

Menomonie countered with another goal to tie the score again. The Blizzard’s Brittani Hopkins followed that up with a breakaway goal of her own, midway into the second on a helper pass from

Cody Crawford.

Blizzard junior Tanesha Carlson pushed the final Blizzard goal of the night on a rebound shot by defenseman Kelsey Lien.

“I felt good after the second period going to the locker room with a 5-3 lead.

I thought we were skating well and could hold the lead,” Bennett said.

However, Menomonie fought back and tied the game late in the third period. The game went into an eightminute overtime but ended up staying tied, 5-5.

“Overall it was a good game, very exciting with the score going back and fourth all game,” Bennett said. “We didn’t play three periods. We had times we were brilliant and times where we let down and gave the lead up.”

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 17

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Luck 46, Unity 32

by Greg Marsten BALSAM LAKE – The Luck Cardinal girls were able to hold off the hosting Unity Eagles on Friday at Unity, 46-32, in spite of some bright moments for the Eagles before the half that got the game down to just a four-point spread.

Unity had a tough time getting a second shot to start the game, and the Cardinals used their prowess on the boards to make their second shots count, racking up 15 points in the opening frame, compared to six points total for the Eagles.

“We made a nice little run,” Unity head coach Chuck Holicky confirmed.

But the Luck girls were too strong and have too many weapons to keep at bay for too long. The Cards also had a solid night on the boards at both ends, with junior Morgan Denny tallying a total of 12 rebounds combined, followed by freshman Avery Steen with seven rebounds and senior Taryn Pilz’s five re-

Unity junior Katherine Ebensperger (with the ball) tries to set up a pick on Luck freshman Avery Steen with fellow Eagle Samantha Ince (13) assisting. In the foreground is senior Aleah Lemieux of Luck. – Photo by Greg Marsten bounds.

“We seemed to play well in spurts,” Luck head coach Marty Messar commented. “We played well for a couple possessions, then not so well.”

Luck has several players who can force the second or third shot, and between

Pilz and Aleah Lemieux, they seem to have plenty of inside prowess. But it was Denny who was able to convert those second chances into scores, finishing with a game-high 22 points added to her 12 boards.

“They’re real strong around the bas-

P O R T S ket,” Holicky confirmed.

While Luck used their size and speed to get those second chances, Unity’s game the previous night at Baldwin may have tested their endurance, as they had a tough time hanging on to the ball in the second half, as they faded slowly into the sunset.

“Playing back to back nights finally took its toll in the third quarter,” Holicky stated. “We hit the wall and had nothing left.”

Luck’s backcourt made up for a rare lack of scoring from the paint, and with steady, patient play, they were able to get enough shots to make most trips downcourt count in their favor.

Unity had a number of fine performances, and is definitely going to be a steady challenge for every opponent this season. They are benefiting from the return of junior Crystal Donahue, who returned recently and was the high scorer for the Eagles with nine points. Six other Eagles also registered points, including 4 of 5 free-throw shooting from freshman Sarah Bader, all in the final quarter.

“It was nice to see my upperclassmen step up and play with some intensity,” Holicky stated, “but Luck is a very solid team.”

Luck held on for the win, and moved to 2-0 in conference play, and 3-2 overall.

Luck boys hold off Unity challenge Down several players, the Cardinals still manage to control the tempo in the Eagles den Luck 43, Unity 35

by Greg Marsten BALSAM LAKE – The Luck Cardinals held off a vastly improved Unity Eagles boys basketball team Friday, Dec. 18, at Unity High School. But it wasn’t that the Eagles didn’t get some tough breaks and difficult rolls several times. The Cardinals were on the spot and controlled the boards enough to hold off the Eagles on their home court, 43-35.

Luck was down several players, and had several guys in street clothes on the bench, but with solid play from their starters, they are tough to keep in check, and showed why they are a team that can step it up when needed for a win.

It was a low-scoring affair all night, and it was obvious that patient passing and play calling were king. The Cardinals were good on the boards, and assured themselves second chances when necessary, led by juniors Cole and Alec Mortel, who each tallied nine boards.

Unity junior Brady Flaherty (10) uses a slick, behind-the-back switchover to get past Luck junior Cole Mortel in Friday's contest at Unity. – Photos by Greg Marsten “Cole and Alec did a great job on the boards,” Luck coach Rick Giller con-

Luck junior Brady Klatt avoids a foul as Unity junior Rush Hickethier drives the lane in Friday's contest at Unity. firmed, “Alec also scored 12 points.”

The Mortels combined with senior

Carson Giller for a total of 34 points, with a game-high 16 points from Giller, including 4 of 4 at the free-throw line.

Unity is quite solid on defense, and kept the Luck guns in check most of the night. They also had fine across-theboard play from their upperclassmen, including a team-high 10 points from junior Rush Hickethier and another seven tallies from junior Brady Flaherty.

But the Unity rolls were just not going their way. They had a slow second quarter, allowing the Cards to stretch their lead and never look back. The deficit became too much to overcome, it seemed, until a late-game push made it quite a bit closer than first assumed. Unity used some good inside play from Tyler Bublitz and Luke Hetfield to give their players second chances, and it started to work. Both teams were actually quite proficient at the charity stripe, and the low-scoring affair made for a good show of passing and defense.

“Unity is going to surprise some teams this year,” Giller confirmed. “They are a good team. They played some good defense.”

But Luck was able to keep enough distance between them and the Eagles to hold on in the final quarter, giving them a 43-35 victory.

Siren gets big win over Drummond Eagles overtaken

by Cameron Siren 45, Drummond 42

by Marty Seeger DRUMMOND – After a few tough losses to start the season the Siren boys basketball team picked up a nice win at Drummond on Monday, Dec. 21.

“Our win against Drummond was a

huge one,” said Siren coach Jon Ruud.

Drummond plays in the Indianhead Conference and started the season 4-0, including wins over big schools such as Hurley and Washburn.

“We had a lot of people step up in this game, as we had everyone in foul trouble early. Both Andrew Brown and Seth Stoner spent half the game on the bench in foul trouble,” Ruud said, adding that Murdock Smith played well both on offense and defense, and had 15 points. Elijah Hinze had 11 points with one point

breaking a 42-42 tie with about 10 seconds to go in the game.

“Last night was as close as we have come to playing 32 minutes! We had a lull at the end of the third and beginning of the fourth, but after that we had kids step up,” Ruud said.

Cameron 62, Unity 53 CAMERON – The Eagle boys dropped a game at Cameron on Monday night, and are still looking to play that complete game.

“We had a tough time finishing shots in the second quarter, but played much better in the second half. We need to put a full game together,” said Eagles coach Shaun Fisher.

Brady Flaherty had a big night with 30 points, and Jared Mork added eight.

Lucas Hetfeld and Luke Hilleshiem each contributed four points. The Eagles next game is at Chetek on Monday, Jan. 4, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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Webster seniors honor their mentor teachers

Educator night includes plaques, honors and handshakes

by Greg Marsten WEBSTER – The Webster senior athletes honored their influential teachers from their Webster careers, and promoted the importance of academics in a world that seems to concentrate pretty heavily on athletics and performance.

Tiger senior basketball players had to pick one teacher who made a big impact

on their lives over the years, from any grade along the way, as long as they were from the district. The students wrote thank-you letters to that individual, citing reasons they were so important along the way.

The comments that stood out were then read to the gymnasium between a boys and girls basketball game at home, allowing the teacher and student to head midcourt and present them with a plaque in their honor. Many of the comments from the students were quite heartfelt and sincere for the teachers, who had a hard time containing their grins as they walked out.

“I wasn’t just another fourth-grader passing through your class,” senior Jud Mosher said to his fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Terry Day. “I felt like part of the team.”

Other comments concentrated on encouragement, trust and the importance of learning.

“Thank you for showing me that learning can be still be fun!” senior Dan Erickson said to Jeff Roberts, his social studies teacher and now basketball coach.

Lone Webster girls basketball senior Kendra Sprugeon honored her secondgrade teacher A.J. Salquist, noting that his “help and encouragement” through

the years was “greatly appreciated.”

The Educator Night is a new tradition at the school, and is likely to continue with every sport as the year progresses.

The teachers will receive an engraved wall plaque and recognition during a contest. It may also be a chance for the students to give some of those influential mentors a good ribbing, like Karl Weber did to high school science teacher Rick Seume, who said it was “almost like being in the same room as the Energizer Bunny!”

Seume was visibly moved, and gave Weber an extra-heavy handshake.

Webster educators were honored by the senior basketball players who noted their importance to their education over the years. The teachers were from all different grades, and received an engraved plaque and a visit to the center of the gymnasium during the break between doubleheader basketball games. Pictured (L to R): Rick Seume, Tim Sundstrom, Roy Ward, Kendra Spurgeon, A.J. Salquist, Shane Rossow, Denean Cornell, Jud Mosher, Terry Day, Nolan Kriegel, Jovin Kroll, Bryan Krause, Jim Muus, Dan Erickson and Jeff Roberts. Not pictured: Karl Weber. – Photo by Greg Marsten

Clear Lake holds off Vikings at home

Cook with 12 points, followed by 11 from senior Will Primm.

The Vikings stepped up their game and limited their fouling in the second half, keeping them within reach all night.

But those early fouls cost Frederic hard in the fourth,as Cook fouled out with just over two minutes to play and his squad trailing by 10 points.

The Warriors held off that last-minute charge and maintained the lead, winning by the same 10-point margin.

Cardinals pull away from Turtle Lake Clear Lake 59, Frederic 49

by Greg Marsten FREDERIC – The Clear Lake Warriors seem to be pretty comfortable playing teams north of U.S. Hwy. 8, as they seem to have spent a lot of road time with the compass headed north. They’ve also shown what a solid contender they will be all season, thanks to a spread out attack squad and some good ball handling.

They held off the hosting Frederic Vikings on Thursday, 59-49, for a wellearned road win.

Both squads seemed evenly matched as the game opened. The Warriors managed to get more balls to fall through the hoop, but the backcourt and perimeter play seemed to be well matched. Clear Lake outscored the Vikes 15 to 7 in the opening quarter, thanks to a waning-moment 3-pointer, but after that it was anyone’s guess.

Both teams ran into foul trouble as the first half wound down, and their foulshooting prowess turned out to be almost identical as the final numbers were added up. Clear Lake shot 14 of 24, while the Vikings converted an identical amount with one less attempt, for 13 of 24 accuracy.

Frederic had steady play in the paint, but the precision passing from Clear Lake is tough to defend, and the Warriors spread their scoring out among only six players, but four of them were in double figures: Sophomore Austin Donahue and junior Sterling Marlett led the squads with 15 points each, followed

Frederic’s Trae Gehl goes up for a shot in a previous game this season.

– File photo by Marty Seeger

Luck’s Cole Mortel keeps the ball from going out of bounds in an earlier game this year. – File photo by Greg Marsten

by 14 points from junior Matt O’Connell and another 11 tallies from junior Brian

Friendshuh.

Frederic leading scorers were Ethan

Luck 71, Turtle Lake 42 TURTLE LAKE – Cole Mortel got things going for the Cardinals in the early goings of a nonconference game against Turtle Lake last Thursday. Mortel scored 12 of his team-leading 22 points in the first quarter, and the Cards had an 11-point edge going before the Lakers bounced back to tie it 29-29 at the half. But Luck managed a great third quarter to help pull away from Turtle Lake.

“With some added movement on our offense in the third quarter and some defensive changes we found our groove,” said coach Rick Giller.

The Cardinals gave the Lakers a tough time offensively in the fourth quarter, allowing the Lakers just six points to Luck’s 25. Carson Giller scored 11 of his 22 points in the fourth quarter and Logan Hacker had six of his 10 points, followed by another six by Mortel.

“The defense didn’t let up and we were able to get some fast-break points,” Giller noted, adding, “offensively, we were able to get quality shots, plus doing a better job on the boards helped create some fast-break points.” – Marty Seeger

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 19

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Pirate gymnasts place eighth at North Branch Lund scores best in each event

by Brenda Sommerfeld NORTH BRANCH, Minn. – The Grantsburg gymnastics team finished eighth at the North Branch, Minn., meet on Saturday, Dec. 19, with a team score of 115.20. Their best event was vault, having a score of 32.90, followed by floor 30.05, bars 26.40 and beam 25.85.

“We did a lot of last-minute changes,” coach Kathy Lund stated. “Jenna’s hand was hurting. She took a fall off the beam on Thursday and Jessika was not feeling well.”

Vault was the team’s strongest event with all four of the gymnast’s scores, that were added for the team total, in the

A R E A Hacker’s Lanes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monday Night Ladies Standings: House of Wood 70, Hacker’s Lanes 58, The Bottle Shop 51, AnchorBank 51, Mane Attractions 44, Chicks 41.

Women’s games: Kelsey Bazey (HW) 214, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 195, Barb Morgan (AB) 191.

Women’s series: Kelsey Bazey (HW) 612, Linda Giller (AB) 547, Rhonda Bazey (HW) 512.

Team games: House of Wood 704, AnchorBank 676, Hacker’s Lanes 619.

Team series: House of Wood 1994, AnchorBank 1955, Hacker’s Lanes 1764.

Men’s Tuesday Classic Standings: Great Northern Outdoors 114.5, Hacker’s Lanes 106, Bottle Shop 99, Yellow Lake Lodge 96, Pioneer Bar 69.5, Olsen & Son 61.

Individual games: David Grindell (OS) 278, Ed Bitler (GNO) 269, Gene Ackland (YLL) 258.

Individual series: Gene Ackland (YLL) 687, Ed Bitler (GNO) 686, Dale Gregory (HL) 668.

Team games: Great Northern Outdoors 687, Pioneer Bar 655, Bottle Shop 646.

Team series: Great Northern Outdoors 1937, Bottle Shop 1897, Hacker’s Lanes 1844.

Games 50 or more above average: Dave Grindell 278 (+97); Ed Bitler 269 (+72); Gene Ackland 258 (+55).

Series 100 pins or more above average: Dave Grindell 8x = 278; Reed Stevens 7x = 238; Blake Douglas 5x = 210; Rick Bradway 5x = 235; Ed Bitler 7x = 269.

Splits converted: 5-10: Maynard Stevens. 3-4-6-7: Reed Stevens. 2-7: Josh Henry. 3-10: Butch Hacker, Tom Coen.

Wednesday Night Early Men’s Standings: 4 Seasons Wood Products 37.5, Skol Bar 37, Pioneer Bar 34, Cummings Lumber 33, A-1 Machine 30, Larsen Auto Center 28.5, Lewis Silo 23, Bye 1.

Individual games: Bryce Daeffler (LA) 268, Gene Ackland (4S) 248, Scott Morrison (4S) 243.

Individual series: Mark Bohn (SB) 681, Gene Ackland (4S) 677, Brett Daeffler (4S) 652.

Team games: 4 Seasons Wood Products 1066, 1024, 962.

Team series: 4 Seasons Wood Products 3052, Pioneer Bar 2649, Cummings Lumber 2633.

Thursday Early Standings: Daeffler’s Quality Meats 57, K-Wood 56.5, Full Timers 56, Grindell

eights. Michelle Lund scored the highest with an 8.35, Nikki Ticknor completed an 8.25 score, Breanna Fickbohm an 8.20 score and Jessika Ilgen an 8.10. April Campana also completed a vault, scoring a 7.10.

Lund also scored best for the Pirates on floor with an 8.45, followed by Ticknor with a 7.65, Fickbohm with a 7.00, Ruthanne Pedersen with a 6.95 and Rachel Diffee with a 4.50.

On bars, Lund was the only to score in the sevens with a 7.60, while Emily Cole and Ilgen each scored a 6.40, Fickbohm a 6.00 and Ticknor a 4.80.

Lund’s beam score of 7.75, leading the team, gave her an all-around score of 32.15. She was the only Grantsburg gymnast to have a no-fall beam routine. Cole scored a 7.65 and Ticknor had a 5.75, giv-

ing her an all-around score of 26.45.

Haley Johnson finished her beam routine, scoring 4.70 and Ilgen 4.50.

The Pirates now have a break from competition until Thursday, Jan. 7, when they compete at Rush City, Minn.

St. Croix Falls/Unity team CHISAGO LAKES, Minn. – The St. Croix Falls/Unity gymnastics team competed at Chisago Lakes on Friday, Dec. 18. The results were not made available at press time.

RIGHT: Grantsburg’s Michelle Lund warms up on the beam before competition at North Branch, Minn. Lund scored the highest in all four events for the Pirates gymnastics team on Saturday, Dec. 19. – Photo submitted

B O W L I N G Law Offices 42.5, Fab Four 40, Wikstrom Construction 40, Hell Raisers 36.5, Frontier Trails 35.5.

Individual games: (Handicap scores) Mike Skow (DQM) 269, Dave Grindell (GLO) 260, Don McKinney (FF) 256.

Individual series: (Handicap scores) Dave Grindell (GLO) 724, Mike Skow (DQM) 718, Mike Sullivan (WC) 695.

Team games: (Handicap scores) Daeffler’s Quality Meats 700, Wikstrom Construction 668, Fab Four 668.

Team series: (Handicap scores) Grindell Law Offices 1939, Wikstrom Construction 1912, Fab Four 1908.

Consecutive strikes (5 or more): Dave Grindell 6x (239).

Games 50 pins or more above average: Dave Grindell 239 (+53) & 237 (+51); Mike Skow 231 (+64).

Series 100 pins or more above average: Dave Grindell 661 (+103); Mike Skow 604 (+103).

Splits converted: 4-5-7: Chuck Hahr.

Thursday Late Mixed Standings: Hansen Farms Inc. 35.5, Stotz & Company 33.5, Rural American Bank 30.5, Johnson Upholstery 26.5, Fisk Trucking 24, North Wind Arts 22, Hog Wild BBQ & Grill 19.

Women’s games: Karen Carlson 195, Kelsey Bazey 187, Rita Frandsen 168.

Women’s series: Karen Carlson 554, Kelsey Bazey 524, Rita Frandsen 472.

Men’s series: Dale Frandsen 246, Larry Stotz 217, Eugene Wynn Jr. 216.

Men’s games: Dale Frandsen 676, Eugene Wynn Sr. 592, Daryl Bazey 589.

Team games: Stotz & Company 944, Rural American Bank 904, Hansen Farms Inc. 896.

Team series: Stotz & Company 2727, Hansen Farms Inc. 2623, Rural American Bank 2602.

Friday Night Ladies Standings: The Leader 68, The Pin Heads 61, Pioneer Bar 60, Frederic Design & Promotion 54, Hole in the Wall 52, Junque Art 48, The Dozers 45.5, Meyers Plus 31.5.

Individual games: Karen Carlson 200, Ruth Taylor 190, Paula Denn 182.

Individual series: Karen Carlson 547, Ruth Taylor 505, Paula Denn 502.

Team games: Junque Art 634, The Pin Heads 594, The Leader 592.

Team series: Junque Art 1843, The Pin Heads 1743, The Leader 1671.

Splits converted: 4-10: Paula Denn. 510: Tammy Lindberg.

Saturday Youth (3 games) Standings: ???? 30, Earth Energy 28, Favre Rules 24.5, The Unknowns 23, Lucky Cards 20.5. L4D 18.

Girls games: Corissa Schmidt 201 & 175, Jayme Mitchell 156.

Girls series: Corissa Schmidt 514, Jayme Mitchell 380, Amber Hall 352.

Boys games: A.J. Walsh Brenizer 242, Logan Hacker 211 & 185.

Boys series: A.J. Walsh Brenizer 576, Logan Hacker 566, Christian Hall 495.

Team games: Favre Rules 688, 665 & 586.

Team series: Favre Rules 1939, Earth Energy 1602, The Unknowns 1564.

McKenzie Lanes

Monday Night Ladies Standings: Bogus Pumpkins 44.5, Milltown Appliance 42.5, Frederic Truck & Tractor 41.5, McKenzie Lanes 32.5, Sam’s Carpentry 32, Wolf Creek Log Furniture 32, Edina Divas 27, Metal Products 20.

Individual games: Cindy Castellano 214, Marsha Guggisberg 208, Toni Sloper 198.

Individual series: Marsha Guggisberg 550, Allison Magner 529, Toni Sloper 528.

Team games: (Handicap score) Edina Divas 859.

Team series: (Handicap score) Edina Divas 2395.

Monday Night Madness Standings: Radio Shack 8, Balsam Lake Market 4, Pepie’s Gals 4, Triple Threat 4, McKenzie Lanes 4, Alleycats 4, Scottay’s Trucking 4, Mishaps 0.

Individual games: Jessica Clausen 210, Kathy McKenzie 180, Heather Donahue 177.

Individual series: Jessica Clausen 546, Kathy McKenzie 475, Debbie Swanson 464.

Team games: (Handicap score) Balsam Lake Market 642, Radio Shack 634.

Team series: (Handicap score) Radio Shack 1815, Balsam Lake Market 1755.

Tuesday Early Mixed Standings: Wild Boys 56, Lane Crashers 50.5, Lamar Stars 45.5, Jim’s Flooring 38, Lemon Heads 38, Mom’s Boys 24.

Women’s games: Janice Berg 179, Brenda Lehmann 168, Vicki Minnick 165.

Women’s series: Brenda Lehmann 450, Vicki Minnick 431, Linda Larson 390.

Men’s games: Jeff Lehmann 247, Zach Gurtner 213, Cory Crowell 211.

Men’s series: Jeff Lehmann 676, Cory Crowell 584, Glen Minnick 548.

Team games: Lane Crashers 548.

Team series: Lemon Heads 1423.

Tuesday Women’s Day Standings: Custom Outfitter 24, Tomlinson Insurance 20, Country Gals 20, Gutter Dusters 17, B & H Builders 17, Hauge Dental 14, Kassel Tap 14, Bye 10.

Individual games: Patti Katzmark 215, Denise Donaghue 215, Jane Smith 194.

Individual series: Denise Donaghue 561, Patti Katzmark 550, Jane Smith 488.

Team games: (Handicap score) Custom Outfitter 839, Gutter Dusters 832, B&H Builders & Tomlinson Insurance 787.

Team series: (Handicap score) Custom Outfitter 2394, Gutter Dusters 2321, Tomlinson Insurance 2263.

Tuesday Night Men’s Standings: Nel-Lo-Hill Farm 76, Glass Bar 72, McKenzie Lanes 69.5, Centurview Park 64.5, Hack’s Pub 57, Dream Lawn 54.5, The Dugout 45, Steve’s Appliance 41.5.

Individual games: Donny Potting Jr. 299, Norm Hansen 265, Randie Gustafson 257.

Individual series: Norm Hansen 701, Randie Gustafson 669, Jim McKenzie 663.

Team games: (Handicap score) Hack’s Pub 1197.

Team series: (Handicap score) Hack’s Pub 3473.

Wednesday Early Mixed Standings: Top Spot 66, Hendrick’s Motor 60, Glass Attractions 56, Suzie Q’s

R E S U L T S 47, Cutting Edge 46, Lite House 42, Hack’s Pub 38, Holiday StationStore 25.

Women’s games: Janice Fox 210, Kathy Braund 154, Patty Walker & Amy Eibs 154.

Women’s series: Janice Fox 540, Kathy Braund 438, Patty Walker 434.

Men’s series: Mike Welling 226, Bob Chitty 204, Gene Braund 202.

Men’s games: Mike Welling 611, Gene Braund 566, Darrell Hendricks 544.

Team games (Handicap score): Hendrick’s Motor 690.

Team series (Handicap score): Hendrick’s Motor 1904.

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Tiger Express 38, Harvest Moon 28, Davy’s Construction 27, Edina Realty 26, Reed’s Marina 22, Dalles Electricians 20, Hanjo Farms 19, McKenzie Lanes 12.

Individual games: Darren McKenzie 279, Matt Campeau 267, Brad Hacker 248.

Individual series: Darren McKenzie 818, Craig Willert 681, Matt Campeau 651.

Team games: (Handicap score) Tiger Express 1063, Davy’s Construction 1000.

Team series: (Handicap score) Tiger Express 3058, Davy’s Construction 2936.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Cutting Edge Pro 83.5, RiverBank 61, Hack’s Pub 60, Eagle Valley Bank 59.5, KJ’s 56.5, Bont Chiropractic 56, Truhlsen Chiropractic 53, Hauge Dental 50.5.

Individual games: Annette Norlander 213, Denise Donaghue 203, MJO Hacker 195.

Individual series: Annette Norlander 541, MJO Hacker 537, Carrie Schultz 509.

Team games: Cutting Edge Pro 798, RiverBank 779, Truhlsen Chiropractic 776.

Team series: Cutting Edge Pro 2324, RiverBank 2252, Truhlsen Chiropractic 2223.

Saturday Night Mixed Standings: Happy Campers 13, Ten Pin Titans 12, Eureka Bombers 10, Roller Coasters 10, The In-Laws 7, Pin Busters 7, Tiger Express 5, Fisk Trucking 4.

Women’s games: Amber Duncan 191, Sharon Berg 176, Jan Lehmann 170.

Women’s series: Amber Duncan 540, Jan Lehmann 468, Kim Delaney 458.

Men’s series: Gene Braund 217, Tim Katzmark 214, Bill Berg & Rick Katzmark 213.

Men’s games: Bill Berg 593, Rick Katzmark 590, Gene Braund 581.

Team games (Handicap score): Eureka Bombers 932, Ten Pin Titans 880, Happy Campers 870.

Team series (Handicap score): Eureka Bombers 2589, Happy Campers 2555, The In-Laws 2489.

Black & Orange

Early Birds Standings: 10th Hole 7-1, Log Cabin Store 4-4, Black & Orange 4-4, Gandy Dancer Saloon 1-7.

Individual games: Kay Casey (10th) 187, Rita Tesch (10th) 162, Lynn Toivola (LCS) 159.

Individual series: Kay Casey (10th) 448, Lynn Toivola (LCS) 432, Marcy Viebrock (B&O) 422.

Team games: 10th Hole 864, Black & Orange 768, Log Cabin Store 762.

Team series: 10th Hole 2471, Log Cabin Store 2243, Black & Orange 2227.

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

Individual games: Josh Johnson (L) 206, Mike Zajac (G&M) & Dean Eytcheson (G&M) 201, Art Bliven (L) 200.

Individual series: Mike Zajac (G&M) 577, Doug Liljenberg (PC) 559, Jack Witzany 534.

Team games: Larry’s LP 984, Glass & Mirror Works 971, Black & Orange 925.

Team series: Larry’s LP 2771, Glass & Mirror Works 2730, Pope’s Construction 2695.

Games 50 or more above average: Josh Johnson 206 (+60).

TNT Standings: Flower Power 3-1, Cashco 31, Larry’s LP 1-3, Hole in the Wall 1-3.

Individual games: Jennifer Kern (L) 213, Julie Chalupsky (HITW) 202, Mary Ellen Smith (C) 194.

Individual series: Jennifer Kern (L) 520, Audrey Pardun (HITW) 492, Mary Ellen Smith (C) 487.

Team games: Hole in the Wall 888, Flower Power 842, Larry’s LP 834.

Team series: Flower Power 2462, Cashco 2424, Larry’s LP 2401.

Games 50 or more above average: Julie Chalupsky 202 (+60).

Wednesday Night Men’s Standings: Cashco 4-0, Northview Drive Inn 3-1, 10th Hole 2-2, Black & Orange 22, Lions 1-3, Vacant 0-4.

Individual games: Monte Rinnman (C) 223, Mike Zajac (C) 216, Mike Young (NDI) 212.

Individual series: Monte Rinnman (C) 597, Art Bliven (L) 555, Mike Young (NDI) 540.

Team games: Northview Drive Inn 1022, Cashco 926, 10th Hole 913.

Team series: Northview Drive Inn 2671, Cashco 2629, Black & Orange 2616.

Games 50 or more above average: Monte Rinnman 223 (+54); Mike Zajac 215 (+55); Jake Lamb 208 (+72).

Early Risers Standings: Hole in the Wall 6-2, A+ Sanitation 5-3, Gandy Dancer 4-4, 10th Hole 1-7.

Individual games: Lucy Hansen (HITW) 176, Gayle Naegli (HITW) 168, Carol Phelps (A+) 167.

Individual series: Gayle Naegeli (HITW) 447, Carol Phelps (A+) 439, Lucy Hansen (HITW) 431.

Team games: Hole in the Wall 709, Gandy Dancer 693, A+ Sanitation 683.

Team series: Gandy Dancer 2043, Hole in the Wall 2033, A+ Sanitation 2011.

Splits converted: 6-7-10: Carol Phelps.

Thursday Night Ladies Standings: Lip’s 7-1, Webster 5-3, Pour House 2-6, Check Services 2-6.

Individual games: Angie Olson (CS) 186, Miranda Rivard (PH) 175, Daphne Churchill (L) 171.

Individual series: Angie Olson (CS) 514, Daphne Churchill (L) & Nikki Cadotte (CS) 428, Miranda Rivard (PH) 411.

Team games: Webster Motel 685, Check Services & Pour House 674, Lip’s 635.

Team series: Check Services 1930, Webster Motel 1897, Lip’s 1843.

Games 50 or more above average: Miranda Rivard 175 (+58).

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

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St. Croix Falls dance team

The St. Croix Falls dance team performed during halftimes of both the girls and boys basketball games last Friday, Dec. 18. – Photo by Marty Seeger

North Branch defeats Blizzard Dietmeier scores both Blizzard goals North Branch 4, Blizzard 2

by Greg Marsten NORTH BRANCH, Minn., – The Burnett Blizzard boys hockey team took on a very tough North Branch team on Sat., Dec. 19, and while they made a good showing at times, the puck went North Branch’s way, leading to a 4-2 loss for the Blizzard.

“It was a tough loss for us. We showed some light after an embarrassing showing versus Becker on Thursday,” head coach Grant Nicoll stated.

“We came out and played a very physical first period, which is good for us

seeing we are a smaller team.”

After the first it was tied 1-1, and Nicoll said “there was a good vibe about the way we played,” but noted the lack of tenacity and coordination between players in the second period.

“We came out in the second very flat and went away from everything we did right in the first,” he said.

The Blizzard gave up two goals in the second period before getting some of their rhythm back with a goal against North Branch, who was “put to the test in the last five minutes,” he said.

Nicoll said his team just plain “ran out of steam” in the final period, and couldn’t overcome their deficit.

“I think the long week of games and practices finally set in. This puts us 2-1 in the Two Rivers Conference, behind only North Branch,” Nicoll said. “The

good thing is we get another shot at these guys after the first of the year! We should be healthy and have everyone back and ready to go.”

Blizzard forward Anthony Dietmeier scored both of the Blizzard goals, with helpers from Joe Engelhart, Stephen Labatt and Chris Olson. Goalie Thomas Labatt tallied 42 saves in the effort.

Youth Hockey Burnett Blizzard Peewee A Saturday, Dec. 19

Burnett Blizzard 7, Spooner 1

Goals: Max Norman (2), Brett Richison (2), Jenna Curtis, Keisha Roy, Drew Alderman.

Assists: Vinny Larson (3), Drew Alderman.

Saves: Bailey Mangen (7).

Sunday, Dec. 20

Burnett Blizzard 7, Altoona 2

Goals: Drew Alderman (4), Vinny Larson, Keisha Roy, Jenna Curtis.

Assists: Andrew Coy (3), Max Norman (2), Steven Holdt.

Saves: Bailey Mangen (6).

Unity dance team

LEADER SPORTS SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Standings Team Conf.

Overall Webster Tigers 3-0 4-0 Grantsburg Pirates 2-1 4-1 Luck Cardinals 2-1 5-2 Unity Eagles 1-1 1-4 St. Croix Falls Saints 0-1 2-3 Siren Dragons 0-2 2-4 Frederic Vikings 0-2 1-4 Scores Thursday, December 17 Clear Lake 59, Frederic 49 Luck 71, Turtle Lake 42 Friday, December 18 St. Croix Falls 61, Siren 53 Webster 52, Grantsburg 48 Luck 43, Unity 35 Monday, December 21 Cameron 62, Unity 53 Siren 45, Drummond 42 Upcoming Monday, December 28 TBD Grantsburg at Glenwood City Tourney Frederic at Clayton Tourney Siren at Clayton Tourney Tuesday, December 29 TBD Grantsburg at Glenwood City Tourney Frederic at Clayton Tourney Siren at Clayton Tourney Blizzard

BOYS HOCKEY

3-3-1 Scores Saturday, December 19 North Branch 4, Blizzard 2 Upcoming Wednesday, December 23 TBD Blizzard at Minneapolis West Monday, December 28 Noon Blizzard at Rice Lake Hockey Tourney Tuesday, December 29 TBD Blizzard at Rice Lake Hockey Tourney Wednesday, December 30 TBD Blizzard at Rice Lake Hockey Tourney

WRESTLING

Upcoming Tuesday, December 29 TBD Unity at Northern Badger Tourney St. Croix Falls at Northern Badger Tourney Wednesday, December 30 TBD Unity at Northern Badger Tourney St. Croix Falls at Northern Badger Tourney

GIRLS BASKETBALL

West Lakeland Standings Team Conf.

Overall Siren Dragons 2-0 4-2 Luck Cardinals 2-0 3-3 Frederic Vikings 1-0 4-1 Webster Tigers 1-1 2-2 St. Croix Falls Saints 0-1 2-2 Grantsburg Pirates 0-2 1-6 Unity Eagles 0-2 0-5 Scores Thursday, December 17 Rush City, Minn., 58, Frederic 49 Baldwin/Woodville 48, Unity 20 Friday, December 18 Webster 55, Grantsburg 52 Luck 46, Unity 32 Siren 41, St. Croix Falls 25 Monday, December 21 Braham, Minn., 105, Grantsburg 41 Siren 54, Turtle Lake 41 Upcoming Monday, December 28 TBD Grantsburg at Glenwood City Tourney Tuesday, December 29 TBD Grantsburg at Glenwood City Tourney 7:30 p.m. Clear Lake at Frederic Monday, December 21 7:30 p.m. Braham, Minn., at Grantsburg Siren at Turtle Lake Tuesday, December 22 6 p.m.

Shell Lake at Luck 7:30 p.m. Webster at Cumberland Osceola at St. Croix Falls

The Unity High School dance team put on a cool routine Friday during the Luck/Unity doubleheader basketball game. – Photo by Greg Marsten

Webster cheerleaders

GIRLS HOCKEY

Lady Blizzard

3-4-1 Scores Saturday, December 19 Lady Blizzard 5, Menomonie 5 (tie) Upcoming Monday, December 28 TBD Lady Blizzard at Siren Holiday Tourney Tuesday, December 29 TBD Lady Blizzard at Siren Holiday Tourney Wednesday, December 30 TBD Lady Blizzard at Siren Holiday Tourney

GYMNASTICS

Upcoming Thursday, January 7 6:30 p.m. Grantsburg at Rush City Friday, January 8 6 p.m.

St. Croix Falls at Superior

Webster cheerleaders bring spirit to the crowds during all home and some away basketball games throughout the winter season. Cheerleaders pictured (back row): Allison Leef. Middle (L to R): Bethany Nutt and Holly Gustafson.

Front: Sam Perius and Brenna Nutt. – Photo by Brenda Sommerfeld

O UTDOOR S

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 21

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

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

Christmas medley

Some pretty scary smells have been emanating from my car lately, and they’re not coming from under the hood or the exhaust pipe. There’s a hint of rotten fish, venison of Marty some form, along with the essence of skunk Seeger mixed in. Fortunately, my wife drove my car the other day and didThe n’t say anything about Bottom it, so perhaps it’s just me, or the clothes and Line boots I wear when I check my trap.

On a handful of occasions, I’ve spent a small portion of time in late fall and winter chasing what I’ve come to know as the elusive fisher.

By law, you’re required to check your traps on a daily basis, so I’ve really only been able to keep it out for about three days at a time, checking it daily of course, before pulling out and waiting for another time – for when I actually get more time.

Checking the trap actually takes little or no time at all, but driving 35 miles in one direction does, so I’ve tried to make every trip more worthwhile, and somewhat cost effective. I’ve thrown in a couple of grouse hunts along the way, tried to fill a fall turkey permit, had a nice dinner at Grandma Carol’s and even did a little scouting for whitetails for the bow season next fall.

At least one grouse sandwich was eaten along the way, and some quality

time was spent outdoors, and with family, but all in all, it’s turned into a pretty frustrating endeavor. To make matters worse, the local trapping gurus that I’ve come across claim that the fisher is, in fact, one of the easiest animals to trap.

At this point, in my first true year of becoming a trapper, all I can really say is that I’m somewhat of an expert at catching mice in my garage, yet fur prices for those are far less than the more popular species on the market these days, and even those aren’t very good from what I’ve learned.

The time I’ve spent chasing fisher and other game species has seriously eaten away at some quality ice-fishing time, yet I’m too stubborn to give up until the fisher trapping deadline arrives, at the end of December. The odds are against me, not only in travel time, but by what I’m using and how I’m doing it. It’d be nice to up the ante a bit by setting more traps while I’m in the area, as well as trying various methods - one being a bucket set with a 160 conibear, or to place a set higher up from the ground in the tree (fisher love to climb). More traps however, equal more work, time and more stinky fisher attractant, which is sure to get in the house at some point during the season. So I’ll stick to my one live trap, and hope for the best. If I can’t fill my permit, so be it. I’ll get more prepared next time around. Most trappers have said that I won’t likely catch a fisher in a live trap, but a tiny percentage say it’s possible, so I guess I’ll take the challenge.

Really, the main reason for applying for a fisher permit was to get one stuffed. It’s an amazing animal, and a full body mount might look good on top of my gun cabinet, but with another

A female cardinal chomps on some sunflower seeds on another wintry afternoon in Wisconsin. – Photo by Marty Seeger head mount on the way, it probably wouldn’t go well with the wife – more money going toward another dead-animal display. I like to think of my deer heads and feathers as decorative art, but we all have different tastes.

If I’m completely unsuccessful at finding my fisher, which it looks like I will be, I’ll write it off as one of the ultimate ways to waste time and money.

Wasting time Another great way to waste time in the winter is by watching birds out your back window, or better yet, erecting a blind near your feeder to try to take photos of them. A good portion of a day last week was spent doing just that, and the entire time, while I sat in the 20-degree temperatures, it all felt somewhat

silly. Heck, I could’ve been ice fishing, or figuring out a new type of fisher bait, but I was looking for a perfect photo, and the dozen cardinals that frequently visited my feeders would make the perfect photo. Cardinals it seems, as opposed to the other birds at the feeder, can be quite spooky, so the blind seemed like the only viable option.

The scene of what I wanted was already etched in my mind. I preferred one with lots of snow, or one you might see on the face of a Christmas card. After two stints of about two hours, the lighting and lack of bird activity eventually beat me out, and I ended the day with a couple of marginal photos at best.

Over the last week or so, I’ve had nearly a dozen cardinals at my feeder at one time, as well as several other common species. Usually six or seven female cardinals and four to five bright red males. The scene, quite honestly, can be fun to watch, and a lot cheaper than trying to trap a fisher.

Although I didn’t quite get the shots I was after, it provided a few hours of entertainment. Each year, around Christmastime, cardinals seem to be at their peak at my home. I’ve never understood why, and I don’t really care to know. I do know that they love my black oil sunflower seeds, and they love the spruce tree that stands tall next to the feeders for the cover it provides. When they show up in droves during the holiday season, it’s good timing, and good company for a person like me who sometimes feels he has nothing better to do. Perhaps that’s the way it should be around Christmas.

Classes offered to create a safer snowmobile season MADISON - Snowmobile safety training taught by certified safety instructors gives new snowmobilers basic information on snowmobile safety, responsibilities, ethics, laws and mechanical functions.

“While a snowmobile safety course is beneficial to people of all ages, it is required to operate a snowmobile in Wisconsin for anyone born after Dec. 31, 1984, and who is at least age 12,” says Gary Eddy, snowmobile and ATV administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

People age 16 and older may complete an online course over the Internet by visiting Today’s Snowmobile Rider in Wisconsin.

A Wisconsin snowmobile safety course certificate, or equivalent from another state, must be carried by operators who meet the age requirements while operat-

ing the snowmobile, and they must display it to a law enforcement officer upon demand. The age requirement does not apply to the operation of snowmobiles upon lands owned or leased by the operator’s parent or guardian.

No one under the age of 12 years may operate a snowmobile unless accompanied on the same snowmobile either by a parent or guardian or by a person over 18 years of age.

Snowmobile safety courses cover: • History of snowmobiling; environmental impacts and concerns.

• Parts of the snowmobile, safety features, maintenance and repair.

• Preparation, operation and handling, terrain, fueling, safety tips and transporting a snowmobile.

• Protective gear, clothing, equipment requirements, emergency situations, first aid, and survival techniques.

• Regulations, trail signs, alcohol and registration.

• Courtesy and ethics.

There are three snowmobile classes listed in Polk County. In Luck, from Jan. 7 to Jan. 14, snowmobile safety classes will begin on Tuesday and Thursdays beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Luck School in room 201. Contact Donald Langel at 715-472-2041 for more information.

Snowmobile safety classes at Frederic High School run on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday beginning Jan. 12 to Jan. 16, beginning at 6 p.m. Contact Tamara Larson at 715-485-8300. A class in Clayton runs from Jan. 4 to Jan. 11, beginning at 3:30 p.m. Contact Grant Pickard at 715-948-2275.

A searchable database of upcoming safety courses, including for snowmobiling, and more information about snowmobiling in Wisconsin are available on

the snowmobile safety education pages at www.dnr.state.wi.us.

All Wisconsin students are required to obtain a Wisconsin DNR customer ID number before taking any recreational safety class and will also be required to provide that customer ID number along with student’s personal information to the instructor.

People who do not already have a DNR customer ID number can apply for one between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. by calling the toll-free DNR customer information line at 888-936-7463. This number must be unique to the individual and officially assigned to them by the Wisconsin DNR. For more information contact Gary Eddy at 608-267-7455. – from the DNR

Spooner DNR office hours to change SPOONER – The Department of Natural Resources Service Center at 810 West Maple State Hwy. 70 W., will be reducing the amount of hours it is open for walk-in service to the public. As of Jan. 4, 2010, counter service will be offered Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“Staying in touch with customers is important to us. Between our customer service specialists in the toll-free call center, online chats and our local license vendors, we offer Spooner area customers many ways to buy a license or get questions answered at convenient times

and locations,” said Diane Brookbank, director of the DNR’s customer service and licensing.

In recent years the DNR has worked to offer service options that reflect what the public has come to expect from the marketplace: • If you have a question on rules, regulations, or other DNR programs, a tollfree call center is available seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., at 888-936-7463 with Hmong and Spanish service also offered.

• Customers can visit the DNR’s Web site at dnr.wisconsin.gov or call 877-945-

4236 24/7 to buy a license. Phone callers can, for example, order a fishing license, get a confirmation number, and head out fishing right away.

• Live online chats are available on DNR’s Web site from 7 a.m. until 9:45 p.m. at dnr.wisconsin.gov • And DNR partners with more than 1,400 retail stores offering convenient service and hours for purchasing hunting and fishing licenses. Currently there are ten license agents in Spooner: A & H Country Market, AAA Sportshop, Geeks Meat and Market, Holiday, Holiday StationStore, Pair O’ Lakes Lodge, Pamida,

Persen Dunn Lake Resort, Schmitz’s Economart and the Spooner Outlet. For a list of agents at other locations visit the DNR Web site at dnr.wi.gov.

The DNR is reducing walk-in hours starting Jan. 4, 2010, at all its service centers as part of cost reductions in state government mandated in the state budget. Hours at all DNR service centers will be adjusted to reflect the new customer service model. All service centers will remain available to local walk-in customers at least one day per week. – submitted

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Polk County circuit court

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY

WESTSIDE APARTMENTS

FOR RENT IN LUCK, WIS.

Deluxe Twin Homes in 8th St. Court – Spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath home includes refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and washer and dryer. Also included is an attached 2-car garage with an auto. door opener.

Monthly rent of $775 includes lawn care, garbage 494453 service and snow removal.

380

$

Kyle Johansen, 715-472-4993

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

Available Now.

500367 WNAXLP

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC, AS SERVICER FOR U.S. BANK NA, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF AEGIS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-4 Plaintiff, Vs FRANK DEMYDOWICH, et al Defendants.

Case Number: 09 CV 80 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on April 2, 2009, in the amount of $175,286.77 the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: Jan. 6, 2010, at 10 a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff. 2.

Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

PLACE: Front Entrance to the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: Part of the North Half of the Southeast Quarter of the Northwest Quarter, Section 28, Township 36 North, Range 17 West, Village of Luck, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 4869 filed in Volume 21, Page 196, as Document No. 699681 (Parcel No. 146-481).

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 303 1st Street North, Luck, WI 54853.

TAX KEY NO.: 146004810000.

Dated this 11th day of November 2009 /S/ Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County J. T. Lovett State Bar #1019525 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. (177596)

/mo. plus deposit Call 715-327-4471 before 2 p.m. or 715-566-2139 after 2:30 p.m.

501407 15Ltfc 5atfc

For Rent - 1-BR Upstairs Apartment

1Ltfc 43a,dtfc

(Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK Plaintiff, vs.

JEFFREY G. SWANSON and HILLS SUPER VALUE and, REMINGTON LAW OFFICES, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 188 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 14, 2009, in the amount of $139,561.47, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin on: Wednesday, January 20, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., TERMS OF SALE: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION: Lot 8 of Certified Survey Map No. 587 recorded in Volume 3 of Certified Survey Maps on page 79 as Document No. 390001, being located in the SW1/4 of the SE1/4 and W1/2 of SE1/4 of SE1/4, Section 33-36-17, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 036-00831-0000 STREET ADDRESS: 1529 240th Avenue, Luck, WI 54853 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 19th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin

Douglas T. Knowl, Frederic, speeding, $175.30.

Wesley L Kobernick, Turtle Lake, fail./stop at stop sign, $175.30.

Rolland J. Kolve, Eau Claire, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Anthony L. Koshenina, Roberts, inattentive driving, $187.90.

Brandon T. Koziol, Amery, disorderly conduct, $105.00.

Daniel P. Kfogseng, Roberts, speeding, $175.30.

Eldon G. Lawrence, New Richmond, speeding, $175.30.

Matthew J. Lindberg, Centuria, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Curtiss D. Lunde, Milltown, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Patrick W. McCann, River Falls, speeding, $200.50.

Ricky A. Mosay, Luck, operating while suspended, $200.50.

Heather C. Munson, Woodville, seat belt violation, $10.00; speeding, $175.30.

Robert C. Nagy, Clear Lake, nonregistration of other vehicle, $263.50.

Joseph E. Nelson, Rush City, Minn., fail./stop at stop sign, not guilty plea.

(December 23, 2009) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY Livingston Financial, LLC as successor in interest to Elan Financial Services c/o Messerli & Kramer P.A. 3033 Campus Drive Suite 250 Plymouth, MN 55441 Plaintiff(s), vs.

Jacob J. Schommer 3302 County Road W Frederic, Wisconsin 54837 Defendant(s).

PUBLICATION SUMMONS Case No. 09SC980 TO THE PERSON(S) NAMED ABOVE AS DEFENDANT(S): You are being sued by the person(s) named above as Plaintiff(s). A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption above.

The lawsuit will be heard in the following Small Claims court: Polk County Courthouse Suite 300 Lois Hoff Clerk of Circuit Court 1005 West Main Street Ste. 300 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on the following date and time: January 11, 2010, 4:30 p.m.

If you do not attend the hearing, the court may enter a judgment against you in favor of the person(s) suing you.

A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

You may have the option to answer without appearing in court on the court date by filing a written answer with the clerk of court before the court date.

You must send a copy of your answer to the Plaintiff(s) named above at their address. You may contact the clerk of court at the telephone number above to determine if there are other methods to answer a Small Claims complaint in that county.

If you need help in this matter because of a disability, please call: 715-485-9299.

December 21, 2009 Jillian N. Walker Messerli & Kramer, P.A. Plaintiff/Attorney #1066378 763-548-7900

Barry R. Norenberg, Grantsburg, speeding, $175.30.

Brian J. Olson, New Richmond, speeding, $175.30.

Jeremy A. Olstad, White Bear Lake, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Amanda S. Ophelan, Clear Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Anita J. Ouellette-Johnson, Luck, speeding, $175.30.

Seth A. Pardun, Danbury, speeding, $175.30.

Judy K. Paulson, Amery, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Shawn W. Peterson, Milltown, operate after revocation/susp. of registration, $175.30.

Brian N. Qualle, Balsam Lake, speeding, not guilty plea.

Walter K. Radomski, Birchwood, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Shelby M. Reda, Milltown, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Ryan M. Roettger, Milltown, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Bradley A. Sandstrom, Cushing, speeding, $175.30.

Kenneth W. Sarber, Luck, speeding, $175.30.

Cheryll M. Sorensen, Rice Lake, speeding, $200.50.

James W. Spright, Chanhassen, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT Frederic & Siren

715-327-8638 494252 1Ltfc 43atfc

(Dec. 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, vs.

BRIAN L. TRIEBOLD and MICHELLE R. FALSTADTRIEBOLD Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 471 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on August 6, 2009, in the amount of $99,301.89, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

TERMS OF SALE: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION The West 400 feet of the North 785 feet of the Southwest Quarter of Northwest Quarter (SW1/4 of NW1/4) of Section 17, Township 34 North, Range 17 West, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 006-00499-0000 STREET ADDRESS: 1556 170th Street, Centuria, Wisconsin 54824.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 3rd day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson / #1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787 502276 WNAXLP

Sterling D. Stark, Osceola, lines retriction violation, class D or M vehicle, not guilty plea.

Bruce J. Sutherland, Brooklyn Park, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Robert W. Tourville, Milltown, storage of junk, etc., $175.30.

Duane S. Vadnez Ja, St. Croix Falls, speeding, $295.00.

Paul R. Veendndall, Woodville, speeding, $175.30.

Gabriel E. Velez, St. Paul, Minn., operate w/o valid license, not guilty plea.

Elizabeth M. Vilz, Weyerhaeuser, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Kelli R. Weaver-Smith, Blaine, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Richard D. Welty, Balsam Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Richard A. West, Ham Lake, Minn., speeding, $200.50; seat belt violation, $10.00; operating w/o valid license, $200.50.

Cori L. Wienke, Clear Lake, speeding, $250.90.

Lynn M. Wilkinson, Burnsville, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Hans Z. Willis, Amery, speeding, $175.30.

Burnett Co. marriage licenses James A. Hanson, Wood River, and Galina Balabko, Russia, Dec. 16.

Rodney W. Meyer, Grantsburg, and Patricia D. Anderson,

FOR RENT One-BR Apartment, Downtown Centuria

325 per mo.

$

Available Now! Water, sewer & garbage incl.

Some pets OK. Background check.

First Month’s Rent And Damage Deposit

612-280-7581

502186 7-8a,d 18-19L

Chadwick H. Haider, Lindstrom, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Christopher N. Hard, Clear Lake, display unauthorized vehicle registration plate, $238.30; operating while revoked, $263.50.

Danielle M. Heilig, Dresser, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Kyle R. Helling, Turtle Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Willie J. Hochstetler, Glenwood City, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Nicole L. Hollingsworth, Frederic, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Craig E. Jacobson, Balsam Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Vicki L. Jeffery, Spooner, speeding, $175.30.

Zachary M. Jensen, Balsam Lake, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Joshua D. Johnson, Cumberland, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Brian E. Johnston, Milltown, nonregistration of auto, etc., $175.30.

William A. Kemp, White Bear Lake, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Karl Klatt, Clayton, disorderly conduct, not guilty plea.

502573 WNAXLP

502242 WNAXLP

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY U.S. Bank National Association ND, Plaintiff, vs.

James D. Gaudette and Cara L. Gaudette, Defendants.

Case Code: 30404 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 09 CV 407 Hon. Robert H. Rasmussen PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on the 25th day of September, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: DATE/TIME: January 28, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to the Sheriff at sale in cash or by certified check. Balance due within 10 days of court approval.

Purchaser is responsible for payment of all transfer taxes and recording fees. Sale is AS IS in all respects.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 DESCRIPTION: That part of the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (NW1/4 SW1/4) and the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter (SW1/4 NW1/4) of Section Twenty-five (25), Township Thirty-five (35), North, Range Fifteen (15) West, Town of Johnstown, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the East and West Quarter line of said Section Twenty-five (25), 324.0 feet East of the West One-Quarter corner of said Section Twenty-five (25); thence South parallel to the West line of said Section Twenty-five (25), 67.4 feet; thence South 78 degrees 15 minutes East 93.9 feet; thence North parallel to the West line of said Section Twenty-five (25) to the high-water mark of Long Lake; thence Westerly along the high-water mark of Long Lake to a point North of the point of beginning; thence South parallel to the West line of said Section Twenty-five (25) to the point of beginning.

(FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes that the property address is 1943 Long Lake Lane, Comstock, WI) Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County Stein & Moore, P.A. 332 Minnesota St., Suite W-1650 St. Paul, MN 55101 651-224-9683

Gary E. Dietz, Edina, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

James W. Drabek, Centuria, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Ruby M. Edwards, Barron, seat belt violation, $10.00.

James R. Ellis, Balsam Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Jerome T. Fischer, Ellsworth, speeding, $200.50.

Susan R. Flaherty, Champlin, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Kinzie L. Fleming, Clayton, nonregistration of vehicle <= 10,000 lbs; alter vehicle registration plate/sticker, not guilty pleas.

Leonardo C. Garrgio, Clear Lake, operate w/o valid license, $200.50.

Christopher R. Gates, Osceola, seat belt violation, $10.00.

Michael D. Gilbertson, Clayton, ATV-careless operation, $200.50.

John H. Goelz, Hudson, speeding, $200.50.

Delfino G. Gregorio, Clear Lake, operate w/o valid license, $200.50.

Trent A. Gross, Clear Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Kelly A. Grosskreutz, Clayton, speeding, $175.30.

501101 WNAXLP

Brady A. Aasmundrud, Clear Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Dawn M. Anderson, Chetek, speeding, $200.50.

William E. Anderson, Rice Lake, speeding, $175.30.

Michael J. Appleyard, North Branch, Minn., speeding, $225.70.

Mary E. Askov, Luck, speeding, pending.

Jesse J. Aubart, St. Croix Falls, speeding, $175.30.

Holly M. Boettcher, Osceola, speeding, $175.30.

Jill C. Boros, Prescott, speeding, $200.50.

James T. Buchan, Forest Lake, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Alicia M. Buckner, Blaine, Minn., speeding, $175.30.

Rossi B. Cannon, Minneapolis, Minn., speeding, $200.50.

Jeffery R. Claude, Amery, unlawful use of phone, $217.50; disorderly conduct, $186.00.

Michael S. Cummings, Luck, disorderly conduct w/vehicle, $175.30.

Curtis Ventures, Amery, sewer line installed above grade, times 10, not guilty pleas.

FOR RENT 1-BR Apartment In St. Croix Falls

500

$

/month plus deposit

Small pets allowed.

715-483-9386 502203 17-18Lp

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

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 23

500985

(Dec. 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK Plaintiff, vs.

RONALD L. AMES Defendant SUMMONS (By Publication) Case No. 09 CV 889 Case Classification No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage TO: Ronald L. Ames 2439 113th Avenue Dresser, WI 54009 THE STATE OF WISCONSIN TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the Plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

Within forty (40) days after December 9, 2009, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the complaint. The demand must be sent or delivered to the court whose address is: Clerk of Circuit Court Polk County Justice Center 1005 West Main Street Suite 300 Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and to plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Steven J. Swanson 105 Washington Street South P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper answer within forty (40) days after December 9, 2009, the Court may grant Judgment against you for the award of money or legal action requested in the Complaint and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A Judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A Judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated the 1st day of December, 2009.

Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney for Plaintiff 105 South Washington Street P.O. Box 609 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

Croix Falls, died Dec. 5, 2009.

Ida L. Jiles, 96, St. Croix Falls, died Dec. 10, 2009.

Oceil M. Burtt, 89, Balsam Lake, died Dec. 12, 2009.

(Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY LANDMARK COMMUNITY BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, vs.

BRUNFELT PROPERTIES, INC. Defendant.

Case No. 09 CV 49 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on October 21, 2009, I will sell at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on: Tuesday, January 26, 2010, at 10 o’clock a.m., all of the following described mortgage premises, to-wit: Lots 6 and 7, Block 32, Original Plat of the City of St. Croix Falls, located in Government Lot 1, Section 30, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, City of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 281-00617-0000.

STREET ADDRESS: 123 Washington Street South, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

TERMS OF SALE: Cash.

DOWN PAYMENT: 10% of amount bid by cash or certified check.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 23rd day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787

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(Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY EAGLE MORTGAGE & LOAN, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

DAWN HOULISTON, et al., Defendant.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 08-CV-500 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure and sale entered in the above-entitled matter, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell at public auction Polk County Justice Center, 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on January 26, 2010, at 10 a.m., the real estate and mortgaged premises as directed by said judgment to be sold and hereinafter described as follows: The South 20 feet of Lot Fourteen (14), and all of Lot Fifteen (15), Block Twenty-four (24), City of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

-andAll that part of Government Lot One (1), Section Seven (7), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Beginning at a point on the North line of said Government Lot 1, 850 feet West of the Northeast corner thereof, said point also being the Northwest corner of Lot 1 of Certified Survey Map No. 366; thence S10˚41’13”E 573.95 feet; thence N89˚23’10”W to the Easterly right-of-way line of the town road known as River Road as the same is now laid out, constructed and traveled; running thence Northwesterly along said right-of-way line of said road to the North line of said Government Lot 1; thence Easterly along the North line of said Government Lot 1 to a point of beginning.

Property Address: 308 S. Adams, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

Terms of sale are cash, unless other arrangements are made prior to sale. Down payment of 10% of the amount bid by cash or certified check with the remainder due upon confirmation of sale. Buyer shall be responsible for all costs of sale, any real estate taxes due and any real estate transfer fee. The property is being conveyed “AS IS.” Dated: Nov. 19, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Polk County Sheriff Drafted by: MAIN STREET LAW OFFICES, LLC 504 Main Street, Suite 200 La Crosse, WI 54601 608-784-1355 This communication is from a debt collector. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT BRANCH II POLK COUNTY IMPACT SEVEN, INC. and IMPACT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION 147 Lake Almena Drive Almena, WI 54805, Plaintiffs, vs.

CARLSON PARTNERS GROUP, LLC D/B/A/ STERLING DESIGN 325 Farm Hill Green Stillwater, Minnesota 55082, and KEVIN C. CARLSON and PATRICIA J. CARLSON 325 Farm Hill Green Stillwater, Minnesota 55082, and LAMPERT YARDS, INC. 1850 Como Avenue St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, Defendants NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Case No. 09-CV-511 30404 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on the 12th day of November, 2009, in the face amount of Six Hundred Eightyone Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty-six Dollars and Thirty-five cents ($681,856.35), the sheriff or his assignee will sell the premises described below at public auction as follows: DATE and TIME: February 17, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: Ten percent (10%) of the successful bid must be paid to the Clerk of Courts Office at the time of the sale in cash, cashier’s check, money order or certified funds, payable to the Clerk of Court’s Office. Personal checks cannot and will not be accepted.

The balance of the successful bid must be paid to the Clerk of Courts Office in cash, cashier’s check, money order, 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,” is not available for viewing, and subject to all liens, encumbrances, and unpaid real estate taxes. The successful bidder is also responsible for payment of the real estate transfer tax fee.

PLACE: Foyer area at the Polk County Justice Center, at 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, WI 54810.

DESCRIPTION: Lot 4 of Certified Survey Map No. 1748, recorded in Volume 8 of Certified Survey Maps on page 96, as Document No. 523148, except the South 125 feet thereof, being part of Lot 4 of Certified Survey Map No. 1171, recorded in Volume 5 of said maps on page 162, as Document No. 446043, located in the SE1/4 of the SW1/4, also known as Outlot 146 of the Assessor’s Plat of the City of St. Croix Falls, and part of the NE1/4 of the SW1/4, also known as Outlot 130 of the Assessor’s Plat of the City of St. Croix Falls, Section 29, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, City of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 281-01158-0400.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: The address of the premises under foreclosure is located at 931 Pine Street, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

Dated at Balsam Lake, WI, this 14th day of Dec., 2009.

Tim Moore Polk County Sheriff Attorney William C. Gamoke Wolfgram, Gamoke & Hutchinson, S.C. Attorney for Community Bank of Central Wisconsin P.O. Box 1178 Marshfield, WI 54449 715-387-1155

WNAXLP

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY CITIBANK, NA as Trustee for WaMu Series 2007-HE2 Trust, Plaintiff, vs.

JOSHUA MALEITZKE and JANE DOE, unknown spouse of Joshua Maleitzke, and JOHN DOE and/or JANE DOE, UNKNOWN TENANTS, Defendants.

Case No. 08-CV-352 Code No. 30404 Foreclosure of Mortgage Dollar Amount Greater Than $5,000.00 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on October 30, 2008, in the amount of $402,529.47, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: January 6, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. PLACE: Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 West Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin DESCRIPTION: The Northerly 100 feet of the Southerly 200 feet of that part of Government Lot Six (6) of Section Seventeen (17), and of Government Lot Four (4) of Section Eighteen (18), both in Township Thirty-five (35) North of Range Sixteen (16) West, Polk County, Wis., laying between Bone Lake and the North and South Highway running through said Government Lot 4.

PROPERTY ADDRESS: 2100 Bone Lake Drive W., Town of Georgetown.

TAX KEY NO.: 026-007070000 Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, WI O’DESS & ASSOCIATES, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff 1414 Underwood Avenue, Suite 403 Wauwatosa, WI 53213 414-727-1591 O’Dess and Associates, S.C., is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

If you have previously received a Chapter 7 Discharge in Bankruptcy, this correspondence should not be construed as an attempt to collect a debt.

WNAXLP

Marissa J. Ahrens, Clear Lake, and James L. Couch, Clear Lake, issued Dec. 17, 2009.

Terri L. Martin, Osceola, and John E. Lee, Osceola, issued Dec. 18, 2009.

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Sherri L. Amundson, Georgetown, and Bruce J. Twetten, Georgetown, issued Dec. 14, 2009.

Kathy A. McVitty, Star Prairie, and Harlan R. Durand, Black Brook, issued Dec. 14, 2009.

(Dec. 23, 30, Jan. 6) ST. CROIX TRIBAL COURT In The Matter Of A Change Of Name For: Charles Dustin Coon (current name) an Adult NAME CHANGE NOTICE OF HEARING ADULT Case No. 09CV02 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at the following date, time and place, Charles Dustin Coon (current name) will petition the St. Croix Tribal Court for a change of name to Dustin Charles Rhodes.

Date: January 7, 2010 Time: 10:00 a.m.

Place: St. Croix Tribal Courtroom, St. Croix Tribal Center Webster, Wis. 54893 Anyone wishing to object to the name change must appear at the date, time and place given above.

Date: December 9, 2009.

Charles D. Coon, Petitioner

Rosemary Tasker, 73, Amery, died Dec. 3, 2009.

Mavis E. Sundby, 86, Frederic, died Dec. 4, 2009.

Martha M. Howard, 95, St.

502243

Polk Co. marriage licenses

reported that gas had been stolen from a shed in his yard along with the theft of a blue and black Kowasaki motorcycle from his garage.

Dec. 19: Possession was given to Anthony Dalsveen, Siren, to take a deer killed on Hwy. 35 and Tewalt Road.

Dec. 20: A $25 parking ticket was left on a Ford F-150 parked on Ellis Avenue and Main Street at 3:08 a.m.

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was referred to social services.

Dec. 17: A gas drive-off at 6:45 p.m. at Holiday Station was reported. The driver’s license came back to Jennifer Denhartog or Jon Knoepke, Siren, on a red Intrepid. The vehicle and the owners had not been found at the time of the report.

Dec. 18: At 4:50 p.m., the Siren Police Department received the report of two snowmobiles stolen from Dennis Mahalla’s residence on Clam Lake. The snowmobiles were later recovered on the Gandy Dancer Trail behind a residence on First Avenue South. The property owner, Kent Lindquist,

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Dec. 8: A warning note was sent to Lindsey Denn, Siren, regarding a Wii game rented at Auto Stop and not returned to them.

Dec. 15: A case of disorderly conduct involving a juvenile at Northwest Journey, Siren, was referred to social services.

At 8:44 p.m., Eugene T. Roach, 26, Siren, was cited on Hwy. 35 and Cemetery Road for having no working taillights on his vehicle.

Dec. 16: A Siren School student was suspended for five days pending an expulsion hearing. The student was cited with possession of tobacco and aggravated assault. The case

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, Vs. CALVIN C. THOMPSON, and RACHEL E. CARDIN, and CAPITAL ONE BANK USA, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 371 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on June 30, 2009, in the amount of $129,345.24, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on: Thursday, Dec. 31, 2009, at 10 o’clock a.m.

TERMS OF SALE: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION: Lot 6, Plat of Scenic Ridge, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 024-01301-0600 Street Address: 945 187th Street, Dresser, WI 54009 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wis., this 6th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787 500302 WNAXLP

Notices (Published 12/23/09) STATE OF WISCONSIN SMALL CLAIMS COURT POLK COUNTY SUMMONS Case No. 09-SC 1287 Blanco Enterprises Plaintiff vs.

Dori Stepon Defendant(s) You are being sued by the above-named plaintiff in small claims court. A hearing will be held at the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, Suite 300, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin 54810, on January 11, 2009, at 4:30 a.m. or thereafter. If you do not appear, a judgment may be given to the plaintiff. A copy of this summons and complaint has been mailed on or before this date to your address.

502470 WNAXLP (Dec. 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT ST. CROIX COUNTY JOSEPH R. DUBAK 692 170th Avenue Somerset, WI 54025, And CHRISTINA A. DUBAK 692 170th Avenue Somerset, WI 54025, Plaintiffs, vs.

PRAXAIR DISTRIBUTIONS, INC. 2000 Hwy. 65 N. New Richmond, WI 54017, ABC INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, PRAXAIR, INC. 39 Old Ridgebury Road Danbury, CT 06810-5113, DEF INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, CAMACHO PROPERTIES, LLC 1072 Golden Oaks Drive Hudson, WI 54016, GHI INSURANCE COMPANY A fictitious insurance company, Defendants.

Case No. 09CV1279 Personal Injury - Other: 30107 SUMMONS TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: You are hereby notified that the Plaintiffs named above have filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

The Complaint, which is attached, states the nature and basis of the legal action.

Within forty-five (45) days of receiving this Summons, you must respond with a written Answer, as that term is used in chapter 802 of the Wisconsin Statutes, to the Complaint. The Court may reject or disregard an Answer that does not follow the requirements of the statutes.

The Answer must be sent or delivered to the Court whose address is: 1101 Carmichael Road, Hudson, Wisconsin 54016-7708 and to Michael J. Brose, Doar, Drill & Skow, 103 North Knowles Avenue, New Richmond, Wisconsin 54017, Plaintiff’s attorney. You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not provide a proper Answer within (45) days, the court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint.

A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated: Oct. 6, 2009.

Michael J. Brose #1000827 DOAR, DRILL & SKOW, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiffs 103 North Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI 54017 Telephone: 715-246-2211

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Polk County deaths

Siren police report

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Notices/ Employment

UNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

BUS DRIVER WANTED

Unity School District is taking applications for bus driver. Commercial driver’s license (CDL) with school bus endorsement required. Materials to obtain permit and assistance to obtain license are available. The process of obtaining a CDL is obtaining permit, bus training & scheduling road test.

Qualified applicants will be given first consideration. Applications may be obtained from the District Office, 715-825-3515, or off the District Web site: www.unity.k12.wi.us. Interested, qualified persons may apply by submitting letter of application, District application, and letters of recommendation to: Brandon W. Robinson, District Administrator, Unity School District, P.O. Box 502197 17-18L 7-8a,d 307, Balsam Lake, WI 54810. Open until filled. EOE

TOWN OF ST. CROIX FALLS Polk County, Wisconsin www.townofstcroixfalls.org BOARD OF APPEALS NOTICE OF HEARING January 4, 2010 The Town of St. Croix Falls Board of Appeals will hold public hearings at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, January 4, 2010, at the Town Hall at 1305 200th Street & U.S. Hwy. 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. At that time the applicant will inform the Board of Appeals of their request. (THE APPLICANT MUST APPEAR AT 6:30 P.M. WHEN THE BOARD OF APPEALS CONVENES AT THE TOWN HALL.) Written evidence, testimony or comments, if any, must be delivered in person or by mail to the Town Hall.

John Leonard requests a VARIANCE to the Town’s Zoning Ordinance - Chapter V, Section J.4.b., size restrictions for offpremise signs. The Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum of 288 square feet per side, the applicant would like to enlarge a sign above that requirement. Property location is Section 27, T34N, R18W; Parcel Number 044-00752-0300.

Arlen Rud requests a VARIANCE to the Town’s Zoning ordinance - Chapter V, Section L.2.c., requirements for ground signs in the Commercial District. The applicant would like to place a sign closer than 20 feet from the property line. Property location is Section 27, T34N, R18W; Parcel Number 04400712-0000.

James Alt, Zoning Administrator 502467 18-19L WNAXLP

(Dec. 16, 23, 30) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY MARGARET E. STONE Plaintiff, and MID-CENTURY INSURANCE and CHAMPVA Involuntary-Plaintiffs, vs.

MIKE A. JOHNSON PROGRESSIVE NORTHERN INSURANCE Defendants.

Case Code: PI Auto 30101 Case Number: 09 CV 894 SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION THE STATE OF WISCONSIN TO MIKE A. JOHNSON: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you.

WITHIN FORTY (40) days after January 6, 2010, you must respond with a written demand for a copy of the Complaint, the demand must be sent or delivered to the Court whose address is: Clerk of Court 300 Judicial Center 1005 West Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 and Timothy T. Sempf, Esq. Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley & Bergmanis 314 Keller Ave. N., Suite 200 Amery, WI 54001 You may have an attorney help or represent you.

If you do not demand a copy of the Complaint within forty (40) days, the Court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Complaint. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.

Dated: December 10, 2009.

NOVITZKE, GUST, SEMPF, WHITLEY & BERGMANIS Timothy T. Sempf #1019141 314 Keller Ave. N., Ste. 200 Amery, WI 54001 Phone: 715-268-6130

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(Dec. 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS SUCCESSOR TO JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE C-BASS MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-CB6, Plaintiff, vs.

RONALD C. BECKWITH; and TAMMY M. BECKWITH, his wife, Defendant.

Case No. 08-CV-496 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 September 3, 2008, in the amount of $118,788.50, 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 18th day of February, 2010, 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: The West 5 ac. of the NW1/4 of NW1/4, Section 24-35-18, Polk County, Wisconsin. Tax Key No. 020 00630 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 The above property is located at 2088 190th Street, Centuria, 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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ACCOUNTANT/CPA

Stotz & Company, a CPA firm, located in Grantsburg, WI, is currently seeking a full-time, experienced CPA or Accountant.

Skills required: • Bookkeeping.

• Computer aptitude.

• Income tax preparation.

• Accounting skills a must, with some years of public accounting experience (or equivalent) strongly desired.

• Knowledge of public utility or government audit procedures is a plus.

If you possess these skills, please send letter, resume and references to:

Stotz & Company, CPA P.O. Box 55 Grantsburg, WI 54840 Fax: 715-755-4813 E-mail: bobswitalla@hotmail.com

502020 17-18L

(Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY THE RIVERBANK, Plaintiff, Vs. LARRY F. HANSON and KATHLEEN R. HANSON, and REGIONS HOSPITAL, and TARGET NATIONAL BANK, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 400 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 14, 2009, in the amount of $178,698.73, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin on: Wednesday, January 20, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

TERMS OF SALE 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION: Lot One (1) of Certified Survey Map No. 3228 recorded in Volume 14 of Certified Survey Maps, page 250 as Document No. 604660 located in part of the Southeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (SE1/4 of the SW1/4) of Section Twenty-four (24), Township Thirty-two (32) North of Range Eighteen (18) West, town of Alden, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 002-01591-0000 Street Address: 225 185th Street, Star Prairie, WI 54026 Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 19th day of November, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson Bar No. 1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787 501099 WNAXLP

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY BOUNDARY WATERS BANK 2230 Eagle Creek Lane, Suite 1 Woodbury, MN 55129, Plaintiff, vs.

HAROLD SHARP 2225 West Orleans St., Apt. 323 Stillwater, MN 55082 KATHLEEN SHARP 2225 West Orleans St., Apt. 323 Stillwater, MN 55082 MICHAEL J. KOCH 2114 210th Street Centuria, WI 54824 PAMELA M. KOCH 2114 210th Street Centuria, WI 54824 AND JOHN DOE AND MARY ROE, Defendants.

Case No. 09-CV-476 Case Type: Foreclosure of Mortgage 30404 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order for Default Judgment and Summary Judgment dated Oct. 22, 2009, the undersigned Sheriff of Polk County, Wis., will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Polk County Courthouse in the City of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on the 11th day of February, 2010, at 10 a.m., the real estate and mortgaged premises located in Polk County, Wisconsin, directed by said Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order for Default Judgment and Summary Judgment, to be sold and described as follows: The West Half of the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 15, Township 35, Range 18, Polk County, Wisconsin.

(Street Address: 2114 210th Street, Centuria, WI 54824; PIN: 020-00366-0000) Terms of Sale: Cash or 10% of amount bid by certified check with the balance to be paid upon confirmation of sale. Sale subject to pay the debt then secured by said mortgage and taxes, if any, actually paid by the mortgagee, on said premises and the costs and disbursements, including attorney’s fees as allowed by law.

Dated: December 11, 2009.

Timothy Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wis. 502149 WNAXLP

MEETING NOTICES POLICY FOR THE TOWN OF JACKSON BURNETT COUNTY

We the undersigned Town of Jackson board members hereby adopt this policy: The future method of providing notice of the Town of Jackson monthly board meetings will be the use of posting and not a paid newspaper notice. Effective Jan. 1, 2010.

If a paid newspaper notice is provided, it will only be used as a supplement to the posted notice.

The monthly board meeting is held the second Monday each month at the Town Hall at 7 p.m.

Full agenda posted the Friday before meeting at the Town Hall, Town office and Crow Bar. Chairperson Dianne Connor Supervisor Nancy Growe Supervisor Roger Larson 502525 18L 8a Adopted this 14th day of December, 2009.

(Nov. 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY WESTconsin Credit Union 444 South Broadway Menomonie, WI 54751, Plaintiff, vs.

BARRY J. THORUD 733 100th Street Amery, WI 54001, Defendant Case No. 08 CV 752 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Code: 30404 By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on December 19, 2008, I will sell at public auction at the Polk County Courthouse in the City of Balsam Lake, in said Polk County, on January 14, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., all of the following described mortgaged premises, to-wit: Lot One (1) of Certified Survey Map No. 2459, recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Polk County, Wisconsin, in Volume 11 of Certified Survey Maps, page 167, Document No. 568323, located in Government Lot 2, Section Twenty-nine (29), Township Thirty-three (33) North, Range Sixteen (16) West, Town of Lincoln, Polk County, Wisconsin.

The above property is located at 733 100th Street, Amery, Polk County, Wisconsin.

TERMS: 1. 10% cash or certified check down payment at time of sale, balance upon confirmation by Court.

2. Sale is subject to all unpaid real estate taxes and special assessments.

3. Purchaser shall pay any Wisconsin real estate transfer fee.

4. Property is being sold on an “as is” basis without warranties or representations of any kind.

5. Purchaser shall be responsible for obtaining possession of property.

Dated at Menomonie, Wisconsin, this 6th day of November, 2009.

Tim Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin SCHOFIELD, HIGLEY & MAYER, S.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Bay View Offices, Suite #100 700 Wolske Bay Road Menomonie, WI 54751 715-235-3939 500174 WNAXLP

www.the-leader.net (Dec. 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY BAC Home Loans Servicing, L.P., as servicer for Bank of New York as Trustee for the Benefit of the Certificateholders, CWALT, Inc., Alternative Loan Trust 2007-18CB MortgagePass Through Certificates, Series 2007-18CB Plaintiff, vs RONALD JAMES SANOSKI, JR., et al.

Defendants.

Case Number: 08 CV 687 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered on August 5, 2009, in the amount of $253,098.32, the Sheriff will sell the described premises at public auction as follows: TIME: February 10, 2010, at 10:00 AM TERMS: 1. 10% down in cash or money order at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeit of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

PLACE: Front Entrance to the Polk County Justice Center located at 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

DESCRIPTION: THE SOUTH HALF OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER (S1/2 OF NW1/4 OF NW1/4), SECTION 24, TOWNSHIP 33 NORTH, RANGE 18 WEST, TOWN OF GARFIELD, POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 882 190th St., Dresser, WI 54009.

TAX KEY NO.: 024-00853-0100.

Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County Christina E Demakopoulos State Bar #1066197 Attorney for Plaintiff 13700 W. Greenfield Avenue Brookfield, WI 53005 262-790-5719 Blommer Peterman, S.C., is the creditor’s attorney and is attempting to collect a debt on its behalf. Any information obtained will be used for the purpose. (181338) 502273 WNAXLP

BURNETT & POLK COUNTY

Polk County and Burnett County are declaring December 31, 2009, as the last day that Polk and Burnett County wildlife crop damage assessments can be requested for the 2009 crop year under Wisconsin’s Wildlife Damage Abatement and Claims Program. This date is based on the Countys’ 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.

502278 18-19L

NOTICE OF HEARING

The Polk County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 12, 2010, at the Government Center in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. The Board will call the public hearing to order at 8:30 a.m., recess at 8:45 a.m. to view each site and will reconvene at 11:30 a.m. at the Government Center in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin. At that time each applicant will inform the Board of their request. (THE APPLICANT MUST APPEAR AT 11:30 A.M. WHEN THE BOARD RECONVENES AT THE GOVERNMENT CENTER.) D. SCOTT GRILL requests a variance from Article 11C, Table 1 of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to keep a deck and patio closer than 75’ from the ordinary high-water mark.

Property affected is: 1833 Neibel Ln., Lot 29, Plat of Camp Neibel, Sec. 31/T35N/R16W, town of Georgetown, Balsam Lake (class 1).

JAMES ANDERSON & RONALD URNESS request a variance from Article 11F2(a)(1)+(2) of the Polk County Shoreland Protection Zoning Ordinance to build an addition onto existing structure which will exceed the 750-sq.-ft. footprint & be off to the side. Property affected is: 1850 Kemah Park Ln., Pt. of Govt. Lot 6, Sec. 35/T35N/R17W, town of Milltown, Balsam Lake (class 1). 502429 18-19L 8a,d WNAXLP

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 25

POLK COUNTY POSITION ANNOUNCEMENTS

Polk County is accepting applications for the following positions: Deputy Clerk of Courts $17.28/hr.

Full Time - 37.5 hours/week Deadline to apply: Jan 4, 2010 Judicial Asst. - Branch 2 Circuit Court $17.28/hr.

Full Time - 37.5 hours/week Deadline to apply: Jan 4, 2010

This project will involve the replacement of seven fiberglass roof panels in the commons area of our building. To obtain further information, please contact the Director of Buildings and Grounds at 715-349-7392 ext. 403. All bids must be submitted no later than 3 p.m. on January 21, 2010, in a sealed envelope marked (Roof Panel Bids). All mailed bids shall be sent Attention: Don Fleischhacker, Director of Building and Grounds, School District of Siren, P.O. Box 29, Siren, Wisconsin 54872.

The School District of Siren reserves the right to accept or reject any 502570 18-20L 8-10a-e and all bids.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND APPLICATION CAN BE OBTAINED FROM POLK COUNTY’S WEB SITE AT: www.co.polk.wi.us, or Polk County Dept. of Employee Relations, 100 Polk Co. Plaza, #229, Balsam Lake, WI 54810, 715-485-9176. YOU MUST COMPLETE A POLK COUNTY EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. AA/EEOC 502527 18L

PT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kinship of Polk County

KINSHIP OF POLK COUNTY, a well-established nonprofit youth mentoring organization, seeks a highly motivated and qualified individual to lead and manage our growing services to the youth and families of Polk County, Wis. The office is located in Amery, WI. Part-time position, 20 hrs./wk.

Responsibilities: Oversee and manage day-to-day operation and financial development; human resources (both staff and volunteers); community relations; administration and all of its components to assure the highest quality service delivery to the youth and families of Polk County.

Must have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent and min. 2 - 3 years of nonprofit management experience.

Applications accepted through January 6, 2010.

Kinship of Polk County, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, committed to strengthening our workplace through diversity.

Send cover letter and resume along with application to:

118 Center St., Amery, WI 54001 715-268-7980 e-mail: mentoring@polkkinship.org www.polkkinship.org to print an application (Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S .Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, MN 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: All that part of the Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 33, Township 34 North, Range 18 West, Town of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin,

502434 18-19L

Attn.: Nancy Hoppe

Kinship of Polk County, Inc.

REQUEST FOR BIDS ROOF PANEL REPLACEMENT SIREN SCHOOL DISTRICT

described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast Corner of said Section 33; thence S. 00º 31’ 14” E, along the east line of said Section 33, 99.62 feet to the south R/ W of U.S. Highway “8”; thence westerly 84.72 feet along said R/W, being a curve concave to the north, having a central angel of 1º 38’ 22”, a radius of 2,960.51 and whose chord bears N. 89º 55’ 56” W., 84.71 feet; thence N. 89º 06’ 45” W., along said south R/W, 170.07 feet to the point of beginning; thence N. 89º 06’ 45” W., along said south R/W, 1,058.42 feet to the west line of said NE-NE; thence S. 00º 30’ 31” E., along the west line of said NE-NE, 1,217.86 feet to the Southwest Corner of said NE-NE; thence S. 89º 07’ 03” E., along the south line of said NE-NE, 1,313.48 feet to the Southeast Corner of said NE-NE; thence N. 00º 31’ 14” W., along the east line of said NE-NE, 711.82 feet; thence N. 89º 09’ 19” W., 109.45 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the northeast, said curve having a radius of 367.00 feet, a central angle of 51º 57’ 28” and whose chord bears N. 63º 10’ 35” W., 321.52 feet, thence northwesterly 332.81 feet along said curve; thence N. 37º 11’ 51” W., 49.56 feet; thence N. 52º 48’ 09” E., 43.65 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the northwest, said curve having a radius of 333.00, a central angle of 39º 45’ 53” and whose chord bears N. 20º 43’ 05” E., 226.50 feet; thence northerly 231.11 feet along said curve; thence N. 00º 50’ 08” E., 36.90 feet to the point of beginning.

Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wis. THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 DCA/14148 502228 WNAXLP

Form B NOTICE OF RESOLUTION OF SCHOOL BOARD AUTHORIZING LOAN

Notice is hereby given to the qualified voters of the School District of Webster, in the County(ies) of Burnett and Douglas, Wisconsin, that the following resolution was adopted by the School District Board at a regular meeting of the board on the 21st day of December, 2009.

WHEREAS, by the provisions of Sections 24.66(3) and 67.12(12), Wisconsin Statutes, school districts in Wisconsin are authorized to borrow money.

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that the School District of Webster, in the County(ies) of Burnett and Douglas, Wisconsin, incur indebtedness of Five Hundred Sixty Thousand And 00/100 Dollars ($560,000) from the Trust Funds of the State of Wisconsin for the purpose of refinancing the outstanding WRS prior service pension liability. The loan is to be repaid within 10 years in annual installments with interest at the rate of 5.25 percent per annum, payable annually as provided by law. A tax shall be levied on all the taxable property in the District to make payments of principal and interest as they become due.

The resolution may be inspected at the office of the administrator during regular business hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sheldon Olesen School District Clerk This 22nd day of December, 2009.

502472 18L WNAXLP (Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S. Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the aboveentitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: The Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (NE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirty-three (33), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, except the following described parcel: commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 33; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East, along the East line of said Section 33, 99.62 feet to the South R/W of U.S. Highway “8”; thence Westerly 84.72 feet along said R/W, being a curve concave to the North, having a central angle of 1 degree 38 minutes 22

seconds, a radius of 2,960.51 and whose chord bears North 89 degrees 55 minutes 56 seconds West, 84.71 feet; thence North 89 degrees 06 minutes 45 seconds West, along said South R/W, 170.07 feet to the point of beginning; thence North 89 degrees 06 minutes 45 seconds West, along said South R/W, 1,058.42 feet to the West line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 00 degrees 30 minutes 31 seconds East, along the West line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,217.86 feet to the Southwest corner of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 03 seconds East, along the South line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,313.48 feet to the Southeast corner of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence North 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds West, along the East line of said NE1/4 of the NE1/4, 711.82 feet; thence North 89 degrees 09 minutes 19 seconds West, 109.45 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the Northeast, said curve having a radius of 367.00 feet, a central angle of 51 degrees 57 minutes 28 seconds and whose chord bears North 63 degrees 10 minutes 35 seconds West, 321.52 feet; thence Northwesterly 332.81 feet along said curve; thence North 37 degrees 11 minutes 51 seconds West, 49.56 feet; thence North 52 degrees 48 minutes 09 seconds East, 43.65 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the Northwest, said curve having a radius of 333.00, a central angle of 39 degrees 45 minutes 53 seconds and whose chord bears North 20 degrees 43 minutes 05 seconds East, 226.50 feet; thence Northerly 231.11 feet along said curve; thence North 00 degrees 50 minutes 08 seconds East, 36.90 feet to the point of beginning, Polk County, Wisconsin.

(FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes that the property address is 2102 U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin) Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 DCA/14148 502229 WNAXLP

NOTICE OF CAUCUS - VILLAGE OF SIREN

Thursday, January 7, 2010, 2 p.m.

Village Office • 24049 First Avenue • Siren, Wisconsin Notice is hereby given to the electors of the Village of Siren that a caucus will be held on Thurs., Jan. 7, 2010, at 2 p.m. at Village Hall for the purpose of placing in nomination candidates for the following offices to be voted on at a spring election to be held on Apr. 6, 2010: Three (3) Village Trustees to succeed Dave Doty Sr., Rudy Mothes & Luanne Swanson whose terms expire.

Ann L. Peterson, Clerk/Treasurer 502075 17-18L WNAXLP Village of Siren

PART-TIME CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR WITC Rice Lake & Superior Campus Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is seeking learningfocused, creative and dynamic candidates for part-time, adjunct minimal hours Certified Nursing Assistant Instructors at the WITC Rice Lake & Superior Campuses. Teaching assignment includes both classroom and clinical hours.

Qualifications include: Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent*, two years (4,000 hours) of occupational experience and licensed as an RN in the State of Wisconsin with two years as an RN with one year long-term-care experience OR two years’ home health experience OR has been an instructor in a school of nursing for RN or LPN students. (WI State Board of Health requirement). *Educational equivalency: Occupation experience combined with education and training preparing a person for the occupation totaling 7 years or 14,000 hours shall be equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.

WISCONSIN For a complete list of qualificaINDIANHEAD tions and to apply, visit our Web TECHNICAL site at www.witc.edu/employ.

COLLEGE TTY 888-261-8578. 501463 5-7a-e 16-r,L WITC is an equal opportunity/access/employer and educator.

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY The RiverBank a Minnesota banking corporation, 2183 U.S. Highway 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024, Plaintiff, vs.

FICEK INVESTMENT COMPANY, LLC a Minnesota limited liability company 1255 Gun Club Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 David E. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; LaVerne J. Ficek 884 Fox Hollow Circle Pines, MN 55014; Lake Area Bank a Minnesota banking corporation 1400 East Highway 96 White Bear Lake, Minnesota 55110 John Doe, Mary Roe, and XYZ corporation Defendants.

Case Type: 30404 Case No.: 09-CV-269 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure entered in the aboveentitled action on September 18, 2009, the Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin, will sell the following described real property at public auction as follows: TIME/DATE: January 27, 2010, at 10:00 a.m.

TERMS: 10% of successful bid must be paid to Sheriff at sale in certified funds, with the balance due and owing on the date of confirmation of the sale by the Court.

PLACE: Lobby of the Polk County Justice Center 1005 W. Main Street Balsam Lake, WI 54810 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: All that part of the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirty-three (33), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West, Town of St. Croix Falls, Polk County, Wisconsin, described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of said Section 33; thence South 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds East, along the East line of said Section 33, 1,318.58 feet to the Northeast corner of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, being the point of beginning; thence

North 89 degrees 07 minutes 03 seconds West, along the North line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 1,313.48 feet to the Northwest corner of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence South 00 degrees 30 minutes 31 seconds East, along the West line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 528.15 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 10 seconds East, 286.34; thence North 00 degrees 34 minutes 28 seconds West, 318.69 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 13 seconds East, 853.42; thence South 00 degrees 35 minutes 25 seconds East, 79.98 feet; thence South 89 degrees 18 minutes 34 seconds East, 173.93 feet to the East line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4; thence North 00 degrees 31 minutes 14 seconds West, along the East line of said SE1/4 of the NE1/4, 285.18 feet to the point of beginning.

Lot Twelve (12) of Certified Survey Map No. 3996, recorded in Volume 18 of Certified Survey Maps on page 26 as Document No. 650286, located in the Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (SE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section Thirtythree (33), Township Thirtyfour (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) West.

Together with rights of ingress and egress in common with the abutting property owners, their heirs and assigns, over and across the 66 foot access easement as described and shown on Certified Survey Map No. 379, recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 108, as Document No. 378754; Certified Survey Map No. 380, recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 109 as Document No. 379003; Certified Survey Map No. 381 recorded in Volume 2 of Certified Survey Maps on page 110 as Document No. 379004; and Certified Survey Map No. 717, recorded in Volume 3 of Certified Survey Maps on page 209 as Document No. 399750.

(FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: Plaintiff believes that the property address is 2102 U.S. Highway 8, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin) Dated this 14th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore Sheriff of Polk County, Wisconsin THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY: ANASTASI & ASSOCIATES, P.A. 14985 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082 651-439-2951 502230 WNAXLP DCA/14148

PAGE 26 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

502239 WNAXLP

(Dec. 16, 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13,20) (except lots in which structures 60.00 feet; thence northwestexist) erly, along the arc of a curve STATE OF WISCONSIN concave southwesterly, the CIRCUIT COURT PROPERTY ADDRESS: long chord which bears POLK COUNTY No property address listed, N25º59’41”W, 10.17 feet and St. Croix Falls, WI THE RIVERBANK, having a radius of 170.00 feet; Plaintiff, MB Development Mortgages thence S52º00’00”W, 164.26 vs.

Parcel #1: A Parcel of land feet; thence N62º00’00”W, Biermann Investment, LLC, a located in the NE1/4 of the 88.87 feet; thence Wisconsin limited liability NW1/4, SE1/4 of the NW1/4, N27º00’00”W, 383.74 feet; company, NW1/4 of the NE1/4 and thence N49º00’00”E, 136.46 M.B. Development, LLC, a SW1/4 of the NE1/4, Section feet; thence S81º14’45”E, Wisconsin limited liability 33, Township 34 North, Range 78.74 feet; thence northwestcompany, 18 West, City of St. Croix Falls, erly, along the arc of a curve Polk County, Wisconsin, being concave southeasterly, the Mark P. Biermann, an individual, further described as follows: long chord which bears Gregory R. Palen, an individual, Commencing at the West N32º42’49”E, 235.53 feet and Michael J. Seeland, an Quarter corner of said Section; having a radius of 290.00 feet; individual, thence N00º14’54”W, along thence northerly, along the arc Kirtland C. Woodhouse, an the west line of said section of a curve concave northwestindividual, 1,322.39 feet; thence erly, the long chord which S89º21’18”E, 1,316.24 feet to bears N32º33’49”E, 179.73 Sammon Heating & Air the southwest corner of said feet and having a radius of Conditioning, Inc., NE1/4 of the NW1/4; thence 220.00 feet; thence Plummer Concrete, Inc., N00º22’04”W, along the west N08º27’14”E, 104.33 feet; T. Kroll’s, Inc., line of said NE1/4 of the thence N41º41’21”W, 30.71 Merchants Bank, NW1/4, 36.63 feet to the point feet; thence westerly along the of beginning; thence continarc of a curve concave Biermann Amery, LLC, uing N00º23’04”W, 540.93 southerly, the long chord which Homes by Biermann Amery, feet; thence easterly, along the bears S86º25’23”W, 18.26 feet LLC, arc of a curve concave and having a radius of 300.00 Biermann Homes Amery, LLC, northerly, the long chord which feet; thence northwesterly, Biermann Contracting, Inc., bears N74º41’25”E, 143.99 along the arc of a curve Homes by Biermann St. Croix feet and having a radius of concave northeasterly, the Falls, LLC, 300.00 feet; thence easterly, long chord which bears along the arc of a curve N62º16’21”W, 381.75 feet and Biermann Homes Turtle Lake, concave southerly, the long having a radius of 350.00 feet; LLC, chord which bears thence S62º00’00”W, 192.54 Bernco, a Division of United N84º43’19”E, 283.80 feet and feet; thence S24º11’15”E, Building Centers, having a radius of 350.00 feet; 149.28 feet; thence Simon Electric Const. Co. Inc., thence southeasterly, along the S66º11’06”W, 84.32 feet; Arrow Building Center, arc of a curve concave thence S06º25’45”W, 229.81 southwesterly, the long chord feet; thence N85º29’20”W, Consolidated Lumber Company, which bears S47º33’09”E, 143.68 feet; thence Defendants.

305.40 feet and having a N45º57’46”W, 306.18 feet to Case No.: 09-CV-04 radius of 378.28 feet; thence the point of beginning. ConCase Code: 30404 southeasterly, along the arc of taining 32.28 acres more or FORECLOSURE OF a curve concave northeasterly, less and being subject to MORTGAGE the long chord which bears existing easements, S51º28’02”E, 339.58 feet and EXCEPT Lots 1, 2, 3, 21, 47, 48 NOTICE OF having a radius of 365.00 feet; FORECLOSURE SALE and 49 of the Plat of Glacier thence southeasterly along the Ridge.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that by arc of a curve concave virtue of a judgment of forePROPERTY ADDRESS: No southwesterly, the long chord closure entered on August 31, property address listed, St. which bears S70º34’02”E, 2009, in the amount of (a) Croix Falls, WI. 220.30 feet and having a $6,644,381.73 against Biermann Parcel #3: Lots 1, 2, 9-30 and radius of 734.73 feet; thence Investment, LLC, in the amount outlot 1, Whispering Waters, southeasterly, along the arc of of (b) $3,321,283.89 against MB City of Amery, Polk County, a curve concave southwestDevelopment, LLC, and in the Wisconsin, EXCEPT lots with erly, the long chord which amount of (c) $4,983,739.79 structures, each of which bears S55º45’51”E, 158.54 against Mark P. Biermann, the should be a separate parcel. feet and having a radius of Sheriff will sell the described PROPERTY ADDRESSES: 219 736.26 feet; thence southeastpremises at public auction as Greenview Lane, 215 Greenerly, along the arc of a curve follows: view Lane, 216 Greenview concave northeasterly, the TIME: January 27, 2010, at Lane, 220 Greenview Lane, long chord which bears 10:00 a.m.

224 Greenview Lane, 228 S57º53’41”E, 163.43 feet and Greenview Lane, 300 Greenhaving a radius of 565.30 feet; TERMS: Pursuant to said judgview Circle, 304 Greenview thence N34º07’22”E, 159.86 ment, 10% of the successful Circle, 308 Greenview Circle, feet; thence N68º47’02”E, bids must be paid to the sheriff 312 Greenview Circle, 316 450.09 feet; thence at the sale in cash, cashier’s Greenview Circle, 320 GreenS90º00’00”E, 256.33 feet; check or certified funds, payview Circle, 324 Greenview thence S73º26’32”E, 276.24 able to the clerk of courts (perCircle, 328 Greenview Circle, feet; thence S69º50’22”E, sonal checks cannot and will 332 Greenview Circle, 336 225.71 feet to the east line of not be accepted). The balance Greenview Circle, 340 Greensaid NW1/4 of the NE1/4; of the successful bids must be view Circle, 344 Greenview thence S00º30’28”E, along paid to the clerk of courts in Circle, 348 Greenview Circle, said east line and the east line cash, cashier’s check or certi352 Greenview Circle, 356 of said SW1/4 of the NE1/4 fied funds no later than ten Greenview Circle, 239 Green244.95 feet; thence westerly, days after the court’s confirview Lane, 235 Greenview along the arc of a curve conmation of the sale or else the Lane, 231 Greenview Lane, cave northerly, the long chord 10% down payment is forfeitNo. Address listed for Outlot 1, which bears N82º53’41”W, ed to the plaintiff. The properAmery, WI. 315.52 feet and having a ties are sold “as is” and subradius of 1,538.44 feet; thence Parcel #4: Unit Numbers 5-28, ject to all liens and encumwesterly, along the arc of a brances.

Whispering Waters Condomincurve concave southerly, the ium, City of Amery, Polk CounPLACE: In the foyer area of the long chord which bears ty, Wisconsin, EXCEPT condoPolk County Justice Center, N78º29’07”W, 49.78 feet and minium units which have been 1005 West Main St., in the City having a radius of 966.01 feet; constructed, each of which of Balsam Lake, Polk County. thence S22º49’17”W, 115.93 should be a separate parcel.

DESCRIPTION OF PROPERfeet; thence S51º10’39”W, PROPERTY ADDRESSES: 211 TIES AND MANNER OF SALE: 140.38 feet; thence Coves Court, 213 Coves Biermann Investment, LLC S10º02’35”W, 145.83 feet; Court, 215 Coves Court, 217 Mortgage thence S42º20’43”W, 96.68 Coves Court, 221 Coves Parcel #1: The East One-Half of feet; thence N75º22’44”W, Court, 223 Coves Court, 225 the Northwest Quarter (E1/2 of 326.77 feet; thence Coves Court, 227 Coves NW1/4) and the West One-Half N33º22’59”W, 231.85 feet; Court, 366 Coves Court, 364 of the Northeast Quarter (W1/2 thence N88º20’56”W, 117.84 Coves Court, 362 Coves of NE1/4) of Section Thirtyfeet; thence southerly, along Court, 360 Coves Court, 346 three (33), Township Thirty-four the arc of a curve concave Coves Court, 344 Coves (34) North, Range Eighteen (18) westerly, the long chord which Court, 342 Coves Court, 340 West, EXCEPT Lot 1 of Certibears S24º34’09”W, 44.51 feet Coves Court, 314 Coves fied Survey Map No. 1587 reand having a radius of 239.98 Court, 312 Coves Court, 310 corded in Volume 7, on page feet; thence southwesterly, Coves Court, 308 Coves 166, as Document No. 506531, along the arc of a curve Court, 306 Coves Court, 304 located in the N1/2 of NW1/4 concave northwesterly, the Coves Court, 302 Coves and EXCEPT that part of the long chord which bears Court, 300 Coves Court, NE1/4 of the NW1/4 and S73º38’06”W, 172.86 feet and Amery, WI NW1/4 of NE1/4 deeded to the having a radius of 125.00 feet; Timothy G. Moore State of Wisconsin, Departthence S30º56’29”W, 22.60 Polk County Sheriff ment of Transportation in the feet; thence N67º00’00”W, Quit Claim Deed, dated Janua44.37 feet; thence MURNANE BRANDT ry 10, 1984, and recorded in S57º00’00”W, 172.03 feet; Attorneys for Plaintiff Volume 464 on page 82 as thence S35º23’32’W, 124.54 30 E. 7th Street, Suite 3200 Document No. 424367 and feet; thence N42º00’00”W, St. Paul, MN 55101-4919 FURTHER EXCEPTING Land 14.95 feet; thence Pursuant to the Fair Debt as described in Warranty Deed S27º00’00”W, 157.74 feet; Collection Practices Act (15 to MB Development, LLC, datthence southeasterly, along the U.S.C. Section 1692), we are ed May 12, 2005, and recordarc of a curve concave south- required to state that we are ed May 31, 2005, in Volume westerly, the long chord which attempting to collect a debt on 971 on page 934 as Document bears S34º20’33”E, 80.36 feet our client’s behalf and any No. 699388, all property is loand having a radius of 230.00 information we obtain will be cated in Polk County, Wis. feet; thence S65º43’09”W, used for that purpose.

Notices/ Employment

VACANCY NOTICE DISTRICT BOOKKEEPER School District of Siren

The School District of Siren has opened a search for a permanent, full-time District Bookkeeper beginning as soon as possible. Compensation is negotiable depending on education and experience.

Duties associated with this position include the oversight of all financial transactions for the school district, including payroll.

Specific responsibilities include accounts payable, accounts receivable, developing and managing the school district budget, calculating revenue and expenditure projections, purchase orders, managing state and federal grants, online reporting, bank reconciliation, district insurances, cash flow, preparation for the annual district audit, internal reporting to the administration and school board, and preparation for the annual meeting.

Qualifications for this position require the following: • Accounting degree or equivalent level of school bookkeeper experience • Intense attention to detail and accuracy • Strong organizational skills and neatness • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting • Ability to meet strict deadlines and set priorities • Willingness to work extended days for afternoon and evening meetings • Excellent computer skills with the ability to operate school district financial software.

Candidates Interested in applying should submit a letter, resume and references to: Scott Johnson, District Administrator, School District of Siren, 24022 4th Ave., Siren, WI 54872. All candidates are subject to a criminal background check.

Application Deadline: Until filled. Interested candidates are 502072 17-18L 7-8a encouraged to apply immediately.

The Siren School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE OF COMPLETE APPLICATION FOR PROPOSED DREDGING

Antler Lake Association, 541 Dayton Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102, has applied to the Department of Natural Resources for an Individual Permit to remove materials from the bed of Antler Lake. The applicant proposes to dredge a channel up to 3 feet below existing lakebed, 24 feet wide and 150 feet long.

The proposed dredging is in an environmentally sensitive area of Antler Lake.

The project is located in the SW1/4 of the NW1/4 of Section 12, Township 35 North, Range 17 West, Town of Milltown, Polk County.

The Department has determined that the application is complete and is currently evaluating the applicant’s proposal. The Department must consider factual information about the following legal standards in deciding whether to issue, modify, or deny the approval or permit to the applicant: • Whether navigation is materially obstructed, including commercial, recreational, active and passive forms of navigation.

• Whether there is detriment to the public interest, including fish and wildlife or their habitat, natural scenic beauty or water quality.

• Whether the flood flow capacity of a stream is materially reduced.

The Department will follow the steps below to reach its final decision on the application: 1. Review the plans and information provided by the applicant.

2. Review the information from public comments.

3. Review the information presented at a public informational hearing if one is requested.

4. Review the information found in natural resource inventories and plans, maps, or data collected by the Department or others using commonly accepted methods.

5. Determine whether the proposed project or activity complies with s. 1.11, Stats [the Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act], and ch. NR 150, Wis. Adm. Code.

The Department has made a tentative determination that it will deny the permit application.

If you would like to know more about this project or would like to see the application and plans, contact John Spangberg, 2501 Golf Course Rd., Ashland Wisconsin, 54806, phone number (715) 685-2923.

Reasonable accommodation, including the provision of informational material in an alternative format, will be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Any member of the public may submit written comments to the address above by U.S. mail. Comments should include the docket number or applicant name. If no public informational hearing is held on this application, comments must be postmarked no later than 30 days following the date of publication of this notice. If a public informational hearing is held, comments must be postmarked no later than 10 days following the date on which the hearing is completed.

If notice of a public informational hearing is not included in this notice of complete application, no public informational hearing will be held unless the Department receives a request for hearing. If no hearing is requested, the Department may issue its decision without a hearing.

Any person may request a public informational hearing by writing to the address above by U.S. mail postmarked no later than 30 days following publication of this notice. A request for hearing must include the docket number or applicant name and specify the issues that the party desires to be addressed at the informational hearing. Because the Department must base its decision to issue or deny the permit or approval on whether the project or activity meets the legal standards listed above, the issues raised should relate to those standards.

The final decision may be appealed as indicated in the decision document.

Docket Number IP-NO-2009-49-03151.

WISCONSIN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES\ For the Secretary John Spangberg Water Management Specialist Nov. 11, 2009 502528 18Lp WNAXLP

(Dec. 23, 30, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 27) STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY MTT FINANCIAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

JARIS C. JOHNSON, and DENNIS DIRKS, and GARY PEER, and COUNTRY COMFORT, Defendants.

Case No. 09 CV 231 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of and pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above-entitled action on July 7, 2009, in the amount of $617, 885.52, I will sell the described premises at public auction at the Main Front Entrance of the Polk County Justice Center, 1005 West Main Street, in the Village of Balsam Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, on Thursday, February 4, 2010, at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

TERMS OF SALE: 1. 10% down in cash or certified funds at the time of sale; balance due within 10 days of confirmation of sale; failure to pay balance due will result in forfeiture of deposit to plaintiff.

2. Sold “as is” and subject to all legal liens and encumbrances.

3. Buyer to pay applicable Wisconsin Real Estate Transfer Tax. DESCRIPTION Parcel 1: The Southwest one-quarter of Northwest one-quarter (SW1/4 of NW1/4), of Section 16, together with an easement for access over the existing driveway located on the Northeast one-quarter of Northeast onequarter (NE1/4 of NE1/4), and Southeast one-quarter of Northeast one-quarter (SE1/4 of NE1/4) of Section 17, all in Township 35 North, Range 15 West.

PIN: 028-00396-0000 Parcel 2: The Northeast one-quarter of Northwest one-quarter (NE1/4 of NW1/4), and the Northwest one-quarter of Southwest one-quarter (NW1/4 of SW1/4), of Section 16; The entire Northeast onequarter (NE1/4) and the Northeast one-quarter of Northwest one-quarter (NE1/4 of NW1/4), except a parcel in the Northeast corner thereof more fully described as follows: Commencing at the Northeast corner of the NE1/4 of NW1/4, Section 17-35-15; thence South on the quarter line a distance of 25 rods; thence West parallel with the North section line a distance of 35 rods; thence North parallel with the quarter line a distance of 25 rods; thence East on the section line a distance of 35 rods to the point of beginning, of Section 17; The Southeast one-quarter of Northwest one-quarter (SE1/4 of NW1/4), and the Northeast one-quarter of the Southwest one-quarter (NE1/4 of SW1/4), of Section 17; and The entire Southeast onequarter (SE1/4), of Section 17; All in Township 35 North, Range 15 West, Town of Johnstown, Polk County, Wisconsin.

PIN: 028-00394-0000, 02800399-0000, 028-00406-0000, 028-00407-0000, 028-004080000, 028-00409-0000, 02800410-0000, 028-00414-0000, 028-00415-0000, 028-004190000, 028-00420-0000, 02800421-0000 & 028-004220000.

Dated at Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, this 7th day of December, 2009.

Timothy G. Moore, Sheriff Polk County, Wisconsin Steven J. Swanson / #1003029 Attorney at Law P.O. Box 609 105 South Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-3787 502274 WNAXLP

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - PAGE 27

Success story/from page 1 Five families in the church have recently adopted 11 children from four different nations. Most of the adoptions have been since 2007.

With all of the new arrivals, the church decided to celebrate all of the adopted children in a special service on Sunday, Dec. 13. During the service the children were dedicated to God, and afterward the adopted families shared their stories of how they came to have their children.

The stories are as diverse as the nations the children come from.

Oudy, Jacqeuline and Santhia Weber As already mentioned above, Harm and Lynda Weber brought home three children from Haiti in November: 14year-old Oudy, 13-year-old Jacqueline and 13-year-old Santhia. Their adoption took three years to process. Ironically, one of the reasons the Webers chose to adopt from Haiti, other than the incredible need of the children from the poorest nation in the Americas (Nicaragua is possibly now poorer), the Webers also heard that adopting from Haiti was easier than adopting from other countries.

This turned out not to be the case for the Webers.

Just one example of the setbacks for the Webers: last December they thought everything was in order and the kids could come to live in Wisconsin, so they traveled to Florida to pick the kids up.

Not until they were in Florida did the Webers learn that they would not be coming because there were still some problems with the paperwork.

Harm explains that one big reason the adoption took so long was time has a different meaning for Haitians. There is no urgency to get anything done today.

Even making a phone call in Haiti is not something to be taken for granted.

Eventually the paperwork was in order and the children were allowed to leave Haiti. After waiting so long for the children to come, the Webers had to rush to pick them up at the airport. The children apparently had missed a flight from Haiti, but were able to fly to Chicago. A minister from the orphanage traveling with the children called the Webers at home from Chicago telling them they would be in Minneapolis, Minn., in about an hour.

Harm described the orphanage where they came from as a huge home with about 70 children living there. All of the Webers’ adopted children had been living at the orphanage for six to seven years, where they were fed and clothed and received intermittent educational instruction. The children living in orphanages can be better off, relatively speaking, in a nation that has about 85percent unemployment, and it was especially fortunate for Oudy that the long adoption process was complete because he was nearing the age when he would be forced out of the orphanage.

Micah, Teri and Grace Stellrecht (L to R) share their adoption story after a special service at the First Baptist Church in Webster.

Each adopting family put together artifacts from the nation they adopted the children from. Shown is an instrument and bowl from Ethiopia, brought in by the Mosher family who have three girls adopted from Ethiopia.

Wearing Ethiopian dress, the three adopted girls are shown with some of their new family members. (L to R): Jud, Mahileet (front), Linda, Jessica, Bizuhan (front), Jonathan and Tingo Mosher.

Despite coming from a tropical nation in time for a Wisconsin winter, Harm says they are adjusting to the cold well.

They enjoy the freedom to go outside whenever they want, are happy and eat a lot.

Grace and Micah Stellrecht Unlike the Webers, Rob and Teri Stellrecht went through the adoption process twice to bring home their two children from India. “A calling from God,” is how Teri described the urge to adopt children and to adopt children from India was “God guided” as she thinks back to the chance circumstances of Grantsburg native Diane Brask bringing an India native to Wisconsin to speak that in turn started the Stellrechts thinking of adopting from India.

Even after the adoptions, Teri feels that God is placing Indian influences in the family’s path. A man from India started working at the Burnett County Cooperative cheese factory where Rob works, for example, and Teri met a woman at a quilting retreat that is married to a man from India.

The Stellrechts didn’t initially consider special-needs children, but they were moved to take in Grace, who was born with bilateral club feet so she was walking on the tops of her feet. Grace, who is now 8 came to Wisconsin just about seven years ago. She was 19 months old when she started receiving treatment to correct her feet. If Grace was American born, doctors probably would have simply fitted Grace with braces, but because of her age, she was fitted with a new cast from toe to hip for the first year of her treatment that lasted several years. Teri explained that Grace was a bit old to be treated with casts, and all along, Teri prayed that Grace would not need major corrective surgery. Her prayers were answered, although she did have a minor surgery to release the Achilles’ heel cord.

Teri is happy to report that treatments worked, and Grace’s bilateral club feet have been corrected.

Five-year-old Micah joined the family two years ago. He was adopted from a different part of India and the process took much longer. The Stellrechts were told that Micah had cerebral palsy and possibly a seizure disorder. Despite these problems, Teri said that they took one look at his photo and knew he was the one. It turned out that his medical conditions were unfounded and Teri reports he is healthy and happy.

Jeferson and Edwin Janssen Kevin and Suzy Janssen also have a special-needs child since they adopted 8year-old Jeferson and 7-year-old Edwin from Guatemala in March of 2007. Jeferson has severe hearing loss, and Suzy is now taking him to Duluth, Minn., for

therapy to help him adapt.

Suzy says that she wanted to adopt children for many years before they actually did because she loved being with kids, but when other families in the church were considering adopting, Kevin, too, was persuaded to adopt.

The Janssens decided that if they would adopt, they wanted to adopt siblings, because that is what God was calling them to do. Jeferson and Edwin are brothers who lost their mother when they were 3 and 4 years old and they had been in a foster home for six months.

The adoption took eight months to complete.

Suzy described the mothering instinct to care for the adopted boys as very natural, explaining that she loves them just as much as her own children, and she has found the whole process to be “quite a journey, an emotional journey.”

She did say that over the years her house had grown quiet and her natural kids have noticed that the house is now noisy.

David Nutt Also from Guatemala is 3-year-old David, adopted by Wayne and Cheryl Nutt in April of 2007 when he was about a year.

Wayne Nutt has been to Mexico on mission trips six times and during one of these trips, he visited an orphanage. He explained that the experience changed some of the preconceptions he had of orphans. “I always pictured the kids as standoffish, but the kids are very friendly. They come up and want to talk and play games, even the teenagers. I can’t think of many American kids that would want the attention that the orphaned kids seemed to crave.”

Wayne might have adopted from Mexico but found out that Mexico didn’t place international adoptions.

Guatemala had a similar culture and Wayne felt that he was in Mexico when he went to Guatemala to pick up David.

The Nutts wanted to adopt, but they didn’t want to look through pictures of kids. He told Debie Pope, “You pray about it and we will pray about it.” The only things that they asked is that they wanted a boy and an infant. When they were told about David, the Nutt children were 100 percent for adopting him. The only thing is that it was a unanimous decision to change his name from Jose David to David Jose.

Tingo, Mahileet and Bizuhan Mosher Jonathan and Linda Mosher brought home three girls from Ethiopia in September of 2007. The Moshers adopted girls for a couple of reasons. First is that the Moshers already have four boys but only one girl. More important, however, is that the girls have so few options out-

side an orphanage. A coordinator assisting the adoption told Linda that the only option open to girls in Ethiopia is prostitution or begging. Of all the countries in the world with millions of children to adopt, Haiti and Ethiopia have children desperately in need of help, Linda explains.

The adoption process took 1-1/2 years. There were some guidelines that the Moshers had to consider to adopt children from Ethiopia. They suggested that if you have children, you should adopt children no older than your youngest natural child. They also did not want more than five children in a home, counting both natural and adopted children. The Moshers ignored both of these guidelines as they had three children at home when they started the adoption process.

The oldest adopted child is also older than the Moshers youngest, Jonah.

The adoption process was snagged when one of the girls the Moshers planned to adopt, Sara, was tested for HIV. Linda explains that this might be fortunate for her since she is able to receive antiviral drugs to treat AIDS in Ethiopia at no cost, but the drugs are very expensive if she was taking them in America. “It just shows that God had a future for her,” Linda concludes.

Linda said that she had a hard time learning they could not adopt Sara, but eventually Jonathan urged Linda on, pointing out that the purpose was to adopt children and they needed to keep going.

Keep going they did and they now have 11-year-old Tingo, 9-year-old Mahileet and 8-year-old Bizuhan.

Linda hopes these stories encourage others thinking of adopting. “There are millions and millions of children out that don’t have people to care for them, even the very basic needs of food and shelter.

There is such a need for families to come forward.”

Color from Guatemala. This is one of the displays from four different countries that adopting members of the First Baptist Church in Webster have adopted children from.

PAGE 28 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NEWS SECTION - A - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Grantsburg Elementary annual Christmas program Grantsburg Elementary School music director Shana Josephson and third-grader Kaitlin Olson played “Jingle Bells” and “Away In Manager” in a piano duet at the Dec. 18 Grantsburg Elementary School program.

Photos by – Priscilla Bauer

Second grade Grantsburg Elementary students Emma Quimby and Raisa Jensen showed their Christmas spirit as they performed the song “In the Spirit” with classmates at the school’s annual Christmas program on Dec. 18.

Grantsburg Elementary classes from grades one, two and three performed the “Silly Holiday Song” for parents and guests at the school’s annual Christmas program on Dec. 18. Students pictured are back (L to R): Evan Cordell, Casey Tripp, Bryce Roufs and Cody Nelson. Middle: Ashley Bistram and Ericka Erickson. Front: Susan Roberts and Randi Siebenthal.

Second-grader Dauntay Erickson blew out his candle after he and his classmates performed a traditional French Christmas carol at the Grantsburg Elementary School’s Christmas program on Dec. 18.

Grantsburg Elementary students Kaley Bergstrom, Johnny Turczyk and Haley Peterson showed kids and kazoos can make whacky music as the first-graders performed the “Whacky March” from the Nutcracker at the school’s holiday program on Dec. 18.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 1

Currents N

‘Follow the Leader’

O R T H E R N

News and views from the NW Wisconsin community

Hi st ory in t he r em aki n g

by Priscilla Bauer GRANTSBURG – Members of the Grantsburg Area Historical Society Board sat in the museum’s basement having a lively discussion as they talked about the museum’s past and future projects.

This dedicated group’s enthusiasm for preserving history and presenting it to the public was apparent as they talked about the museum’s next project titled “Are we there yet?” which will highlight all the different modes of transportation, which have come and gone in Grantsburg and the area over the years.

Picking projects to be displayed at the museum is a process, which comes from the member’s brainstorming sessions.

“We throw a lot of ideas around,” said longtime member Gail Potvin.

“We need to look at expenses, too,” Potvin explained, and went on to say a big expense used to be enlarging old photos for exhibits but technological advances have made a big difference, making the process no longer costly.

Another board member, Berdella Johnson, said artifacts for exhibits are mostly borrowed or have been donated from community or board members and their

“We try to honor all requests and if we can, find what they are looking for,” said Johnson, who was quick to credit another member, Gordon Larson, as a great community resource for organizing the society’s records and photos. “We couldn’t do it if it wasn’t for Gordy,” said Johnson.

Larson has volunteered countless hours organizing the society’s materials.

Local newspapers from 1865 to the present, which have been put on microfilm, are housed in the local history room at the Grantsburg Public Library along with other records gathered and cataloged by Larson.

“The museum is open to the public Sunday afternoons during the summer

Emma’s House is an ongoing project of the Grantsburg Area Historical Society. The home, located just up the street from the museum, was owned by Emma Olson and donated to the historical society in 1989 by her sons. Restoration of Emma’s House is just another example of the combined efforts of historical society members and the community with much of the labor and materials donated by local construction companies and residents.

Grantsburg Area Historical Society board member Berdella Johnson shows a trunk donated to the society in photos at left and right. Artifacts donated by community members are cataloged and stored for future exhibits.

Photos by Priscilla Bauer families, which also keeps costs down.

The building of a storage shed has greatly helped in keeping artifacts organized. “Before the shed was built we kept artifacts in people’s garages, barns and attics,” said Potvin.

The group also keeps an extensive photo library, which has been cataloged on a computer so photos are easily accessed for use in displays and for loans to the public by request from the society.

Just as Johnson was explaining the society requests for photos and records from local residents as well as from other states and even internationally (some requests have come from as far away as Scandinavia and Asia) the museum’s phone rang.

A writer in Texas, currently working on a book about Olive Fremstad, was calling to ask if the museum had a photo of the noted Metropolitan Opera singer’s father, Dr. Fremstad, a country doctor who practiced in Grantsburg.

Historical exhibits are on display at the Grantsburg Historical Museum located on Wisconsin Avenue in Grantsburg. The museum is open Sunday afternoon in the summer and also by appointment anytime.

months and by appointment throughout the year so the society chose to have the records at the library to give the public greater access,” said Grantsburg Library director and society board member Judy Pearson.

Potvin says it is members like Larson and the support of the community that keeps the Grantsburg Historical Society, established in 1986, thriving.

“We have good support for projects. If people are asked, they step up by donating their time, labor and materials,” said Potvin.

“We are totally volunteer and couldn’t do it without the help of the community,” added Potvin.

The society relies on donations to fund the museum’s projects and to cover operating costs. “We get $500 from the village The furnishings at Emma’s House, including the cookstove and icebox, were of Grantsburg and the rest through doall donated to the Grantsburg Area Historical Society. When restoration on the nations, which are always needed and house is completed it will be a representation of an average 1900s home.

See History, page 2

502386 18L

PAGE 2 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

History/from page 1 welcome,” said Potvin.

“The community has been very generous in supporting our projects. We really depend on that,” said Potvin, who noted the society tries to pick projects that would benefit the community.

One of those projects, the rural school project, was a big and expensive one for the society to take on but well worth the effort, said Potvin.

Board member Greg Peer said the Grantsburg School District was a big help in the completion of relocating the Reed School building to its present site.

“The school district was wonderful to work with,” said Peer. “They gave us the land to put the building on. If the district hadn’t done that we wouldn’t have been able to do it.”

“We wouldn’t have had another chance to get a building in its original state,” said Peer, adding the finished project, a representation of all rural schools of the time in the area, has been a great benefit to the community and area students.

Peer said the completion of the project would not have happened without great volunteers like Clayton Jorgensen. “He put his heart and soul into that project.”

The society is currently working on another restoration project, Emma’s House, located just up the street from the museum.

When finished the home, owned by Emma Olson and donated to the historical society in 1989 by her sons, will be a representation of a circa 1900s home.

Emma’s House is just another example of the combined efforts of historical society members and the community.

“We had to gut the interior because while living in the house Emma had modernized it,” said Potvin. “We took out the bathroom and replaced it with a pantry.”

Labor and materials from local construction companies and volunteers have enabled the society to make muchneeded structural repairs such as the

Grantsburg Area Historical Society Board member Gail Potvin showed how photos are cataloged for easy access when the group needs them to use in displays and for loans to the public by request from the society.

Cousins Anna, Jaelyn and Megan Potvin had fun dressing the part of students attending a rural school at the Grantsburg Area Historical Society museum’s rural schoolroom exhibit. — Special photo

Photos by Priscilla Bauer except where noted new foundation and kitchen floor, Potvin said.

While more work is needed on Emma’s House, including a new roof, members are very pleased with the results so far.

“Emma’s has been beautifully furnished and all through donation,” said Peer. “We were given a cookstove and the old icebox and though it has been a lot of work, Emma’s House is really coming together.”

Citing another of the society’s projects of community interest, Potvin said the society is also responsible for moving and restoring the original Burnett County Jail to its present location next to the museum. “Visiting the old jail is a big hit with children,” said Potvin, smiling.

Along with staffing and maintaining the museum and its exhibits, the society

When restoration on Emma’s House is completed it will be a representation of an average 1900s home.

also hosts an annual ice-cream social and tea at Emma’s House. And the group provides walking tours of local historical sites in Grantsburg during the summer

by request.

Emma’s House is available during the summer for teas and other smaller group gatherings by reservation.

Members of the board stopped after their meeting to take a look at the museum’s re-creation of an old rural schoolroom, remarking at how popular an exhibit it had been with the public.

And as members closed the museum’s door they knew they’d be opening it again soon to continue their work, keeping local history preserved and alive for all to experience.

Historical exhibits are on display at the Grantsburg Historical Museum located on Wisconsin Avenue in Grantsburg. The museum is open Sunday afternoon in the summer and also by appointment anytime.

“Something to Hoot About”

Ms. Christiansen’s second- and third-grade class play at Luck Elementary School was “Something to Hoot About.” The play was about a talk show titled “We Give a Hoot,” the talk show dedicated to learning about owls. The co-hosts were Oscar Owlwell and Olga Owlsen played

by Logan Stevens and Courtney Johnson. Special guests from the show were Grace the Great Horned Owl (Grace Thoreson), Burnie the Barn Owl (Jonathan Skow), Bart the Barred Owl (Dominic Caroon), Scott the Screech Owl (Dillon McKenzie) and Samantha the Snow Owl (Rose King.)

Andrea Johnson, Andrew Lemieux, Merlin Hibbs and Bennett Jensen were representatives for the show’s sponsor company of Pellets, Inc., a company that sells owl pellets for scientific exploration. - Photos submitted

St. Croix Falls District Scholarship Foundation to hold fourth-annual chili cook-off and silent auction ST. CROIX FALLS – There are 25 entry spots available to submit your best chili recipe for sampling at the fourthannual chili cook-off Tuesday, Jan. 12, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Croix Falls High School. Businesses, clubs, families and individuals are invited to join. Contestants must furnish five quarts of chili at minimum - although much more would be appreciated (remember there will be a large hungry crowd), slow cooker, serving utensils, banners, and appropriate and unique setups. The entry deadline is Friday, Jan. 8, 2010.

Grand prize is naming rights to a scholarship to be presented at the annual St. Croix Falls District Scholarship Foundation Banquet in May. If you can’t cook, you are welcome to eat. Join them for all-you-can-eat chili at an exciting event organized to raise money for the St. Croix Falls District Scholarship Foundation and vote for your favorite recipe, or make a donation for the silent auction.

All proceeds are tax deductible and will go to the St. Croix Falls District Scholarship Foundation. The foundation awards scholarships to graduating St. Croix Falls High School seniors and alumni. Tickets for the event are $5 per person, or $20 per family. Preschoolers eat free. Enjoy the basketball games after you eat. SCF Saints versus Unity Eagles: Girls varsity at 6 p.m., boys varsity at 7:30 p.m.

Please contact Wanda Brown at 715-483-9469 for more information or entry forms. – submitted

Check out the Leader’s e-edition @ www.the-leader.net

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 3

Traditions show us the way to Christ-

grandmother is gone and my Auntie Jo now prepares the Christmas Eve feast. A lot of mas. uncalled-for color has intruded on the table My father’s family is Norwegian. This under Auntie Jo’s watch. One year salmon means that I have eaten entirely white food was unceremoniously introduced alongside every Christmas Eve of my life with the the lutefisk. I am sure my Norwegian foresmelly, slippery lutefisk as the main entree. bears were raising white eyebrows when I don’t like lutefisk and I don’t care who bits of green vegetable made a tentative apknows it. I don’t like how looks. I don’t like pearance. But it is still a very white meal. how it smells. I don’t like how it jiggles on After dinner we will have my grandthe plate. It does not seem reasonable that mother’s good (white) rice pudding, which a petrified fish, invented by my ancestors no one could make correctly for several before the advent of refrigeration, has been years after her death. We will open presents preserved as a delicacy. I don’t see people and then, at last, we will go to the late serving up beef jerky or hardtack for the church service. It will be almost unbearably holidays. cold, getting into the car after all that warm, The Germans supposedly had the idea of Letters from white food. When we arrive, the church will hauling a tree into the house to brighten the be crowded and smell of pine. Everyone gloom of the shortest days. When the lakes will be a little full and more than a little are covered with ice, and the fields blansleepy. The minister will not attempt a serketed in snow, the idea was to bring a mon.

It is late, we know why we have come. The green, living thing into the house to provide hope Christmas story will be read and carols will be sung. that the winter would end.

Then the organ will fall silent and the lights will dim: This is not the Norwegian approach.

“Silent night, holy night” I have a photo of my father on a Christmas Eve not Everyone will get a small white candle with a cardtoo many years ago. He is seated at the Christmas board shield to prevent the hot wax from dripping table covered by a white linen tablecloth with white napkins. He has the white lutefisk on his white plate, on our hands.

“All is calm, all is bright.“ several pieces of lefse (the Scandinavian potato torWe will pass the light from person to person in the tilla), and a serving of boiled potatoes. There is not a dark. trace of color on his plate.

“Round yon Virgin Mother and Child.”

It is a sort of camouflage dinner, designed to hide The church will smell of paraffin. in the snow. My dad is a pretty white guy, he blends “Holy Infant so tender and mild.“ right in. He could have had some peas but, because And we will find Christmas, once again. they are green, we are obliged to hide them in white sauce on Christmas Eve so they do not frighten off “Sleep in heavenly peace.”

Merry Christmas. the rest of the meal. To the Norwegian way of thinking, too much color at this most sensory-deprived Till next time, time of year could throw a person into shock or, at – Carrie the very least, raise the unrealistic expectation that there are not months of unremitting snow and ice and gloom ahead.

Of course, the rules have relaxed with time. My

Carrie Classon

Home

Polk-Burnett helps make the season bright for local kids CENTURIA – Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative hosted its fourth-annual gift drive this holiday season, collecting three van loads of new, unwrapped toys, books, games and gifts for local children.

“We thank our employees, members and friends who so generously donated holiday gifts,” said Joan O’Fallon, Polk-Burnett spokesperson. “We were pleased to serve as a gift collection site again this year as part of our co-op commitment to community.

Throughout the year our members depend on us to keep their lights on, and during the holidays, we’re also happy to help make the season bright for kids. We are a local business, serving local families.”

Holiday gifts were donated by Polk-Burnett employees, co-op members and the public, and do not affect electricity rates. Gifts collected at Polk-Burnett’s Centuria location were given to Polk County children through Operation Christmas. Gifts collected at PolkBurnett in Siren were given to Burnett County children through Interfaith Caregivers Christmas for Kids. - submitted

Special winter fun out at the Forts Burnett County Historical Society offers special activities DANBURY – If you’re looking for a way to pass the dreary days of winter and early spring, the Burnett County Historical Society has something just for you.

Beginning in January and running into April, the society will host a series of fun activities at Forts Folle Avoine.

The kickoff will be Sunday, Jan. 10 with Beads of the Fur Trade, with local bead expert Al Johnson. Johnson will display some of his collection of early beads from the fur trade era and tell their stories. There will also be

an opportunity for participants to make their own era jewelry, a necklace, bracelet or earrings.

Fort director Steve Wierschem has something special planned to begin the month of February. On the first Saturday, Feb. 6, there will be a Family Fun Day, a full day of winter rendezvous with a long list of outdoor activities spread across the 80 acres of the historical site.

Watch for further information on this event as the day approaches.

Feb. 14 will offer an opportunity to learn all about dream catchers. Bob Albright will tell the story behind dream catchers, how to make them, and even give participants a chance to make one for themselves.

If you are interested in the stories about the early years of Burnett County, then mark March 14 on your calendar. That’s when a local historian will share the

special stories of long ago Burnett County.

And to round out the series there will be a special presentation April 11 to tell the story of the Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park. This will include the history of the fort (1802-1804), its rediscovery (1969), and the present activities of the Burnett County Historical Society.

Here’s an opportunity to answer your questions about this historic fur trading fort.

Admission to all events and programs is free, but there may be nominal costs for materials at some events. And the society asks participants to register for these events at least a week before they are held.

For more information or to register, call 715-866-8890 or e-mail your name, date of events and activities you wish to attend to fahp@centurytel.net.

Auditions for “Bye, Bye Birdie” announced FREDERIC - The Frederic High School drama club is excited to be planning something new for their spring production. This year they will be performing the musical “Bye, Bye Birdie,” with public performances scheduled for Friday, April 9 through Sunday, April 11.

According to Kathy Lexen, the play’s director, there is a lot of musical talent among the high school students.

Anyone seeing any of the recent concerts can agree with that. In addition, there is already a good team in place, including Amy Tinman to head up choreography, Pat

Anderson to help with vocal directing, Patty Burns to head up the orchestra, and Elizabeth Franzen to help with costume design. Also, alumnus and theater arts major Candace Buck will be lending her help with stage managing.

Even with all the help and talent, more help is needed to pull off Frederic High School’s first musical. Community members are invited to help fill in minor roles and extras in the play. People are needed who can sing, dance, and/or speak, although not every part does all

t h r e e .

Auditions for these parts will be held on Thursday, Jan. 7, from 6 p.m. until finished, at the Birch Street Elementary School. In addition to actors, technical help is needed, especially someone interested in directing sound and/or lights.

If you have an interest in auditioning or helping in any way, please contact Kathy Lexen at the high school for additional information on dates and audition requirements. - with submitted information

PAGE 4 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Collected by

Russ Hanson

River Road

Ramblings Christmas Memories

by Russ Hanson As we get older, we look back and remember the fun of being a kid and the wonderful things that happened then. Christmas was the best time of the year because people made it so for us. It was a do-it-yourself celebration that brought families and the neighborhood together to celebrate the birth of Christ in a mixture of religious, secular and commercial events. The homecoming of family and friends, the wonderful seasonal meals and cookies, the reaffirmation of religious beliefs, the gifts for the kids and vacations are what made the memories so strong for all of us.

While growing up in the old days was fun and is great to remember, it should remind us that what we do now with Christmas is making memories for our children and grandchildren. Are we doing as well as our as our own parents and grandparents did for us?

Christmas season began in earnest for us four Hanson boys on the farm when, at school and Sunday school, we got our “pieces” for the Christmas programs. Both were big events in the neighborhood.

Local schools and churches were the glue that connected the community.

The Sunday school program was always a re-enactment of the story of the birth of Christ. We boys worked our way up from silent (emphasis from the teacher) cows, donkeys and sheep to “Shepherds watching their flocks by night” and “Wise Men following Yonder Star” (we figured it was near the North Star). We never made the big parts of Joseph or the innkeeper because our tryouts were weak (“Try the emergency room, lady!”). We learned that all men in the Bible wore bathrobes and towels wrapped around their heads. Of course, on the farm we never had any bathrobes, instead preferring long johns for winter and short johns for summer, so these were borrowed from the sophisticated ladies in the church. “I don’t think a shepherd would wear a pink bathrobe” complained Marvin to nonlistening ears.

The reward for both school and church programs, other than the fame of performing in front of the whole community was the small brown paper bag with Christmas treats. Dad said that the school board bought and packed the bags out of their own pockets.

A good bag of treats was likely to get the board reelected next spring. In the bag would be either an apple or an orange, a handful of salted peanuts in the shell, a few soft Christmas candies and a few hard candies—bright reds, greens and white colors. I never got used to the candy flavors of the era—anise, horehound, root beer and liquorish, so traded them to my brothers for soft candies at great loss.

Every year the young people at church formed a Christmas caroling group and without practice were loaded two deep into a few cars and carted to the “shut-ins” and older folks in the neighborhood to do some caroling at their doors. It was fun with the last stop at one of the church folks where we had hot cider, Christmas cookies and maybe a homemade pizza.

Sometimes a neighbor with a steep hill invited the local kids over for a night toboggan party and bonfire after the caroling.

One Saturday in December, the Cushing merchants would have a Santa Claus Day. We kids filled the Little Hall above the north tavern or the Big Hall above the grocery store to see some cartoons and a short movie and to get some candy and trinkets and visit with Santa Claus. We farm kids rarely went to town and to see a movie and see Santa was much more special than it seems now. Kids came from all of the local schools around Cushing; one of the few times the Cushing, Orr, Alabama, Pleasant Valley, Trap Rock, and Manitou Lake students came together before the new Consolidated Cushing School opened in the mid 1950s.

Cutting a Christmas tree meant a trip to the woods.

Early years we went to the big “Christmas Tree Swamp” near the St. Croix River where spruce trees grew in abundance. You were supposed to pay $1 for a permit to cut a tree, but that meant a trip all the way to Balsam Lake to pay for it. So we just went out and cut one. Dad knew the way because back in the ‘30s he lived on the 260 acres his father owned along the river that later became the Lagoo Camps area.

I remember going out there with Dad one Decem-

The 1938 advertisement from the Standard Press shows some deals from the St. Croix Falls Gamble's Store. Mom says in the 1930s people were glad to get work that paid a dollar per day so nowadays that would be at least $60 for a 98-cent item! – From the Rambler archives.

ber and hunting through the frozen, snow-covered swamp to find a nice tree. Marvin and I picked out a good one and we cut it and were dragging it out when we met another man dragging his spruce. “Do you have a permit for that tree?” asked my Dad sternly.

“Ah, no, I didn’t get one,” the man replied looking down. “Well, that’s good, cause I don’t have one either,” smiled my Dad, and we outlaws headed back to our cars together.

Mom was very careful to hide all of our Christmas presents so we wouldn’t find them early. One year she did it so well that in March, when someone sat down at the piano to play, the sound was blocked. We opened the top and here were a few forgotten presents still wrapped and labeled, a special treat as there was one for each of us kids.

We got our Christmas presents on Christmas morning after Santa Claus had put them under the tree. We didn’t hang stockings because we didn’t have a fireplace and because we knew Santa was not so dumb as to come down the chimney, through the furnace and up the heat registers when the door was never locked anyway. He just put the presents under the tree!

Everett had a harder time giving up Santa Claus than the rest of us. Uncle Chan asked him what he got for Christmas and he listed all of the toys and clothes from uncles, aunts, grandparents and a toy log truck from Santa. “Didn’t your mom and dad give you anything?” teased Chan. Everett thought a long time and finally allowed “they gave me one of the logs on the truck.”

Grandpa and Grandma Hanson (Eugene and Nettie) always had us over for Christmas dinner.

Grandma’s jack pine tree was special! She had some really old decorations that she brought out and put on the tree. Tinsel loaded with lead, candle holders for real candles and balls and ornaments that had been carefully packed and carried through many moves.

The most fascinating decoration was the string of bubble lights. When they first came out in the late 1940s Grandma had splurged and got a set. We boys were fascinated that they never boiled away the water in

them.

Grandma raised geese for the traditional cooked goose. All of her food was homegrown, homemade and home cooked in the kitchen wood cookstove. As a special treat, she might have us help her make popcorn balls and pull taffy. Our gifts were home-knitted mittens or socks and homemade candy and cookies.

Grandma was a schoolteacher before getting married.

If the snow was fresh, she would take us out and tramp a Fox and Geese circle and get us started playing the old schoolyard game. Indoors she would bring out her favorite board game, Bringing Home the Bacon, and we four boys played it with her. Grandpa liked to sing so would have Grandma play a song on the piano and sing with us.

After months of school, it was time to get out and really do hard-core sliding down the big hill by the house. We had accumulated skis, runner sleds, toboggan and skates as previous Christmas presents or passed on from neighbors and relatives whose kids had outgrown them.

The hillside by the house had to be prepared for the runner sleds. We cleaned the summer rust from the runners by hooking onto the back of the tractor and trailer and riding them up the road and into the woods to haul a load of wood back to the house. We made a careful set of ruts in the deep snow by pulling a sled and rider down the hill. We hauled pail after pail of water from the pump to ice the tracks, following the example of the old-time loggers icing their roads.

Halfway down the hill we built a jump – a carefully packed, flattened and iced pile of snow that dropped an amazing amount—larger each year. After a cold night the hill was ready! The sleds whizzed down the hills, crashed over the jump, finishing in the cattail swamp below.

Ernest Swanson plowed and flooded a skating rink on Bass Lake for the Gullicksons, Swansons, Hansons, Nelsons and other neighbors to enjoy. He plowed the snow in a large circle with the back blade on his Ford tractor leaving a snowbank ridge around it. On a windless, cold day he put the fence-post auger on the tractor and ground it through the ice to auger fresh water to flood the rink. It froze overnight to leave a glass surface for skating.

Speed was the goal of the boys and elegance the girls. Skating backwards and stopping quickly while still on your feet were the true tests of a good skater.

One year Mr. Swanson froze a wooden fence post into a hole in the lake and mounted a pole on a pin on top of it with one long side and the other short. You could grab onto the long end of the post or a rope on it and pushers turned the short end and brought you up to phenomenal speeds before you let go and coasted across the lake.

Some evenings we started a fire and skated late, as the full moon lit up the area bright as day. We boys found “hockey sticks” out of the woods and banged chunks of ice or wood around, valuing speed and crashes above all. We knew true disgust when an older boy left the hockey group to skate with someone’s sister!

All too soon, Christmas vacation was over and it was back to school preparing to be adults by copying pages out of the dictionary, getting used to the taste of the soap bar and writing our faults 25 times on the blackboard.

Are you making memories for your family and neighbors? To make Christmas special for yourself, you do it best by making it so for others. Margo goes absolutely overboard at baking Christmas cookies some years and gives ice-cream buckets full to all the relatives. One year she embroidered personalized handkerchiefs for everyone. I asked her what she was doing this year. “My nursing duties are taking up all my time this year!” she said, sounding a little like Ebenezer Scrooge. I thought I’d better not ask any more questions or I might get a “Bah, humbug!” My knee is improving, but my mobility is pretty limited.

Send your Christmas stories or any other kind to riverroadrambler@gmail.com or call 507-356-8877 or 15937 Co 27 Blvd, Pine Island, MN 55963. Stop in at the bank in Cushing and pick up one of our last year’s book, “Cushing History I” for only $15 and give it as a Christmas gift. There are many locally written books at the Leader office in Frederic that would make wonderful and inexpensive gifts. Stanley and I are preparing “Stories from the Trade River Valley II” as a 2010 spring release, so save $15 for that and send along any stories or pictures to make it better!

Merry Christmas to all of you from the Hanson family! If the story above seems familiar, it was first in the column back in December 2005. I dusted it off, added a little and trotted it out, just like TV reruns of the old Christmas movies each year!

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 5

Jokes that can be told in church Attending a wedding for the first time, a little girl whispered to her mother, “Why is the bride dressed in white?” The mother replied, “Because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.” The child thought about this for a Abrahamzon moment then said, “So why is the groom wearing black?”

A little girl, dressed in her Sunday best, was running as fast as she could, trying not to be late for Bible class. As she ran, she prayed, “Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late! Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late!” While she was running and praying, she tripped on a curb and fell, getting her clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off and started running again! As she ran she once again began to pray, “Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late … but please don’t shove me either!”

Three boys are in the school yard bragging about their fathers. The first boy says, “My dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50.” The second boy says, “That’s nothing.

My dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100.” The third boy says, “I got you both beat. My dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon, and it takes eight people to collect all the money.”

An elderly woman died last month. Having never married, she requested no male pallbearers. In her handwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, “They wouldn’t take me out while I was alive, I don’t want them to take me out when I’m dead.”

A police recruit was asked during the exam, “What would you do if you had to arrest your own mother?” He answered, “Call for backup.”

A Sunday school teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem.

A small child replied “They couldn’t get a baby sitter.”

A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her 5- and 6-year-olds. After explaining the commandment to “Honor thy father and thy mother,” she asked, “Is there a commandment that teaches us how to treat our brothers and sisters?” Without missing a beat, one little boy answered, “Thou shall not kill.”

At Sunday school they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when they told him Eve was created out of one of Adam’s ribs. Later in the week his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and she said, “Johnny, what is the matter?” Little Johnny responded, “I have pain in my side. I think I’m going to have a wife.”

Two boys were walking home from Sunday school after hearing a strong preaching on the devil. One said to the other, “What do you think about all this Satan stuff?” the other boy replied, “Well, you know how Santa Claus turned out. It’s probably just your dad.”

You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing! Take heed and pass these along to people who need a laugh.

Bernice

Behind the Signpost

Shopping for Christmas I don’t go to many rummage sales or yard sales or garage sales, but when I do, I make them count.

It’s surprising how many people receive gifts they don’t like or intend to use. Perhaps it’s the color or cut of a piece of clothing. Some items still have the original price tags on them. I buy such bargains for my gift box, and when I’m looking for a proper gift, I am never disappointed.

I find many sweaters with turtlenecks, and I myself like them, but a lot of people don’t. They keep our necks warm in winter and eliminate the need for

a scarf to go with a coat.

I love to read and books with large print are a real find. If readers read books the way I do, they look like new. When I give away a book, I say, “I enjoyed this book and thought you might like it, too.” Besides, I like to check a book out before giving it away. I want to be sure it’s full of good words, not bad ones. I have actually thrown away some books. I think some of them come from adult bookstores. If I’m going to spend time reading books, I might as well choose worthwhile ones. And I am only passing on good ones!

So I also buy candles never burned, boxes of tea never opened, orphan cups without a saucer. One of my favorite cups is bone china with roses painted on it and a gold rim. I feel like a real lady drinking mint tea from it. If I gave that cup away, it would have to be to a kindred spirit who doesn’t mind not having a matching saucer.

This past summer we acquired a whole box of jigsaw puzzles and did all of them. All the pieces are there. Unfortunately, all the boxes are flimsy and don’t look new, so I guess the whole carton will go to someone else’s yard sale with “free” on them.

Here in Lewis they smile, or actually laugh, at me because I love trees and mourn each one cut down. I have found I can give trees as a memorial through the Arbor Day Foundation. With the hundreds of trees planted in our national parks, I can’t point out the trees I’ve supposedly planted, but I write, “Your tree is the tallest, the healthiest, the happiest tree in the forest.” If it’s in memory of a couple, I add, “They are growing close together and thriving.”

The other day I was thinking about all the acorns planted by the elder Mr. Bohn at Whispering Pines. In 50 years they have become a forest. Unfortunately as the land is developed, some of those trees will be sacrificed and that saddens me.

However, the trees surrounding our house here in the country are very tall and pose a danger in a windstorm. Two of them posed a threat and we had to have them cut down by professionals. One of our oaks has a cement heart and if it falls, I hope it misses all buildings.

This spring we treated ourselves to three new apple trees to replace those we lost in the orchard.

Cheer up, however. Whenever it comes to presents, I promise not to gift wrap a bunch of acorns.

The cliché calorie counter Do you need exercise? Consider the following as an extreme measure to get in shape.

Beating around the bush – 75 Jumping to conclusions – 100 Climbing the walls – 150 Swallowing your pride – 50 Passing the buck – 25 Throwing your weight around (depending on your weight) – 50-300 Dragging your heels – 100 Making mountains out of molehills – 500 Adding fuel to the fire – 150 Hitting the nail on the head – 50 Wading through paperwork – 300 Bending over backwards – 75 Jumping off the bandwagon – 200 Running around in circles – 350 Eating crow – 225 Tooting your own horn – 25 Climbing the ladder of success – 750 Wrapping it up at day’s end – 12 How many calories have you burned up today?

Merry Christmas, Until next week, Bernice

Interstate Park Nature story time at Interstate Park ST. CROIX FALLS – Mark your calendars. 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. 14 and 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 2010 are $25 for Wisconsin residents or $35 for nonresidents. - submitted

Do you remember ?

Compiled by Bernice Abrahamzon

50 Years Ago Art and Bev Beckmark were married Dec. 26, at the Siren Methodist Church, with Pastor Everson officiating.-Amateur artists had a fine display at the Webster show in the community building, Webster.Frank Somo passed away in California.-Melissa Miller, 76, former Webster resident, passed away.Jenna Pederson wrote an essay “What Christmas Means to Me.”-Vice President Nixon was worrying over revolt in farm states.-Pastor Keith Hanley of St. Luke’s Methodist Church wrote the devotion for this week’s Leader.-Obituaries included Florence Keding, Byron Cooper, Charles Peterson and Fred Shaver.-The movie “The Sound and the Fury” was playing at the Grand Theatre, Grantsburg.-“Pork Chop Hill” was playing at the Auditorium Theatre, St. Croix Falls, starring Gregory Peck.-“Tarzan’s Greatest Adventure” was playing at the Webb Theatre, Webster.-A dance was held Dec. 12, at the Indian Creek Hall.-Specials at Route’s Super Market, Frederic, included turkeys at 45¢/lb., Swedish potato sausage at 49¢/lb. (and how the customers enjoyed that homemade sausage!), pot pies at 3 for 59¢, Miracle Whip at 53¢ for 2-qt. jar (compare with today’s price), bananas at 2 lbs. for 29¢, Jell-O at 6 pkgs. for 49¢ (compare with today’s 95¢ a package).The Co-op Store, Frederic had lutefisk at 23¢/lb.

40 Years Ago County meetings provided Advotech 18 information to the public.-The state legislature studied new shared-tax reform bill.-Rites were held in Webster for Dwight Coleman, 62.-The Gem and Mineral Society planned to meet Jan. 6, at the center building in Webster at the end of Main Street, with Vi Coddington as hostess. In case of bad weather, members were asked to check with Lee Whitney, Webster, or Bernice Abrahamzon, Lewis.-Holiday greetings came from Anderson’s Store, Siren (Caroline, Minnie, Dorothy, Doris, Vi and Stan); Pheasant Inn, Siren; Fishbowl Insurance Agency, Webster; Morse Builder’s Supply (Judy, Lillian, Marian, Lloyd, Mike and LaVerne), Siren; Nyberg and Kallberg Lumber Company, Siren; Siren Laundromat, Bill and Elsie; Frederic Motel (Al and Donna LeFurgy); Linder Body Shop, (Doc, Clarence and Ed) Frederic; Al and Gladys Fischer, Lewis.-Pardun-Boucher wedding was reviewed. They were married Nov. 8, at Webster.-Chester Fremont, rural Frederic, was an agent for American Family Insurance.-The Tin Man, St. Croix Falls, dealt in pump repair, supplies for the handyman. Many children were photographed through the years standing beside the Tin Man, who really dwarfed them.-Remember Will’s Radiator Service?-Greetings from Cummings Lumber, Frederic, contained six names.

20 Years Ago The review of the wedding of Julie Olson and Curtis Lee was in the November issue of this paper.

They were married Aug. 19, at Faith Lutheran Church, Grantsburg.-Arlene and Leroy Jones of Lewis bought the former Sears order building on Hwy. 35, to turn it into a flower shop.-Park Funeral Home was sold to Ray Rowe.-Fare SHARE was for everyone.-Custom framing was offered at Frederic’s Picture Gallery in the building built for the Triple Z Cycle Shop.-Obituaries included Ray Schallenberger, Roy Larsen and Steven Easland.-Home-care week was celebrated in Polk County.-The Grantsburg School was dropping wrestling for 1989-90.-A winter warm-up kicked off sled dog season, Dec. 16-17, held south of Shell Lake.-Teacher salary increases were equal to cost of living says Wisconsin Education Association.-Wood River Nursery held a holiday open house Dec. 1 and 2.-The future looked bright for North States Industries.-It was suggested to readers to adopt an eagle nest for the holidays.Burnett County offered cross-country ski trails, including Grantsburg Village and Upper Phantom (Wis. DNR), just north of Grantsburg. Also Brandt Pines (Wis. DNR) and Sandrock Cliff (federal).-More deer were killed in 1989 than in 1988.-Agreement was reached on Frederic Clinic lease.

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Serving the community since 1882

24106 St., Hwy. 35 • Siren, WI Phone 715-349-2221 • Fax 715-349-7350

Tom Moore, Owner Brian Johnson - RPh

PAGE 6 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER

Hi, everybody! Blacky here from Humane Society of Burnett County. Wow! Here it is almost the end of another year already, and that means I’ve been your shelter buddy for two years now. Can you believe it? I’ve told you a lot of stories about my pals here at the shelter, but now I’m thinking about retiring.

After all, I’m approaching middle age, and ...

And I’m only kidding. That was my Brett Favre impersonation. Don’t worry, I’m not going anywhere for awhile, unless someone says, “Blacky, go lay down by your dish!” in a roundabout way. It’s true, I have told you a lot of stories, and there is one recurring theme that I wish I never would have to talk about. If you are a regular reader of mine, you will recall me telling you many times about dogs or cats left abandoned at the shelter’s gate, or in the aluminum-can-collection bin. Well, it happened again. Last week when it was bitter cold outside, some-

body left a mama and three puppies in the can bin. Can’t people read?

The sign on the bin says “Cans for K9’s,” not “Cans or K9’s.” It’s against the law to dump off an animal, whether it is in front of the shelter, or alongside the road, or you move and leave it behind, or whatever.

Mom and the little ones have thawed out and got some groceries in and this time the YAPpenings them, person who did it got caught. When I heard that news, I was so happy that I threw up on the dining room floor! Well, maybe that wasn’t the reason, but I was pretty happy and

Blacky Shelter

my stomachache went away.

Momma dog is a very sweet rottweiler, and her pups are a mystery mix. They sure are cute, though. All us mutts are! There are two girls and one boy, and in the spirit of the season they’ve been named Holly, Noel and Jack Frost. I don’t think he will nip your nose, but instead will crawl all over you for affection. Same for Holly and Noel. Two strays also join the ranks at the shelter. Jingles is a young, male black Lab who was found near Polk County. He was a very hungry boy, and you’d have thought someone switched on a Hoover when his food bowl was set in front of him. Haily the hound was found out on CTH B and Cranberry Marsh Road. She’s only a pup herself - about 4 months old - and she is very playful and sweet. Tipper is a stray cat that was found on CTH X near Webster. He is black and white and is believed to be about 2 years

old.

I do have just two things to ask for this week as far as supplies. We need paper towels and black, 33-gallon garbage bags.

Nothing major, but we need them nonetheless, if you could help us out please.

Because of Christmas, my deadline this week is early, and I’m already pushing my luck on getting it in on time. So, I will just close this week by wishing all of you a happy and safe holiday; and to all my furry pals, I hope you all find bones under your tree and dodge having those dumb, red felt antlers strapped to your head!

People can dress their own selves up.

Take care, everyone, and I’ll see you here next week.

HSBC is saving lives, one at a time. www.hsburnettcty.org, 715-866-4096.

Siren Senior Center Our monthly meeting was held on Tuesday, Dec. 15, with only 13 people braving the cold.

It was decided that instead of having our usual potluck over the Christmas holidays, we would have one when Valentine’s Day comes along. Dave Wardean from Webster surprised us with a visit and reported that his wife, Jane, is recovering very well from her recent stroke. The only aftereffect apparently is that she is very tired and I believe that is par for the course. If you are in the Webster area stop in and visit her, I think she would appreciate that.

It was decided that we will be undecorating our Christmas decorations on Jan. 4, and all that can help will be greatly appreciated.

On Wednesday morning three of our local lionesses, Hazel Franseen, Evelyn Weber and Jane Wilcox, brought all of the mittens and hats that had been knitted and placed on the various Christmas trees in the community to the center.

Approximately 150 pairs of mittens and scarves were donated and these will be distributed to the children and adults who are in need of some nice warm items this winter.

Everyone who participated in the event is to be congratulated, thank you.

As I mentioned before, the nutrition program from the center is giving a door prize every day for those who participate in the

Barb Munger

Hazel Franseen, Evelyn Weber and Jane Wilcox of the Siren Lionesses were at the Siren Senior Center last week sorting out over 100 hats and pairs of gloves knitted by area knitters for needy people and placed on Christmas trees in the community. - Special photo

noon meal. The winners this week were Lou Jappe, Darleen Groves, Corrine Root and Marvin Hemming. On Dec. 23, CeCe will have a final grand drawing. Gratitude to Jane Wilcox and Hazel Franseen who helped CeCe fill and decorate the Christmas bags that were sent out on the routes for our meals-on-wheels patrons.

The center will not be playing Spades on Friday for the following two weeks, as those days happen to be Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. We will have our usual Dime Bingo, Cribbage and 500 on the Tuesday and Wednesdays of both of those weeks though.

Winners this week at 500 were Darleen Groves, Dorothy Cronquist, Marie Van Guilder and Gerry Vogel. Spade winners on Friday were Roger Greely, Cora D’Jong, Ralph Groves, Jim Bly and Virginia Martin.

The Friday card players helped Nona Severson celebrate her birthday with a birthday cake, which she shared with all of us. The center will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 24 and 25. Everyone have a safe holiday and hope to see everyone after Christmas.

Birth announcements A girl, Alison Hazel Emerson, born Nov. 29, 2009, to Ashley and Brady Emerson, Amery.

Alison weighed 6 lbs., 15 oz.

••• A girl, Khylah Rose Jantz, born Dec. 3, 2009, to Tiffany Ellingworth, Dresser. Khylah weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A boy, Kevin Flores, born Dec. 4, 2009, to Megan Olson and Kevin Flores, Amery. Kevin weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz.

••• A boy, Joshua Robert Tate Seline, born Dec. 10, 2009, to Jessica Miller and Joshua Seline, Amery. Joshua weighed 7 lbs., 11 oz.

••• A girl, Amaris Marie Vierkandt, born Dec. 10, 2009, to Melissa and Billy Vierkandt, Amery. Amaris weighed 8 lbs., 10 oz.

••• A boy, Eli Michael Schommer, born Dec. 11, 2009, to Veronica and Jon Schommer, Clayton. Eli weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz.

•••

A girl, Molly Marie Burger, born Dec. 13, 2009, to Angela and Frank Burger, Clayton.

Molly weighed 7 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A boy, Jackson David Becker, born Dec. 13, 2009, to Carrie Stewart and David Becker, Amery. Jackson weighed 7 lbs., 5.5 oz.

••• A girl, Allanah Ann Pabst, born Dec. 14, 2009, to Rebecca and Brian Pabst, Turtle Lake. Allanah weighed 7 lbs., 3 oz.

••• A girl, Gracelyn Mary Gillman, born Dec. 16, 2009, to Jessica Harning and Richard Gillman, New Richmond. Gracelyn weighed 7 lbs., 15.5 oz.

•••

Born at Burnett Medical Center:

A girl, Naomi Dawn Ciotta, born Dec. 12, 2009, to Shane and Jessica Ciotta, Grantsburg. Naomi weighed 6 lbs., 11 oz. and was 19.5 inches long. Siblings include Cory, Tyler and Connor.

News from the service TACOMA, Wash. – Aaron M. Pederson graduated from Officer Candidate School Phase III training at North Fort Lewis, Tacoma, Wash., and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army National Guard. OCS students are selected, considered, and drawn from colleges, active-duty and Reserve Component enlisted ranks, and direct commissioning.

The two-week Phase III training is the final phase of a three-phased, 14-month training period. The National Guard officer candidate received basic soldiering instruction in leadership, professional ethics, soldier team development, combined arms tactics, weapons defense, squad drill, intelligence, land navigation, maintenance, communications, staff and general military subjects, field training exercises, and physical training and conditioning.

Officer candidates are tested and evaluated in leadership skills and teamwork abilities required of a commissioned officer.

Students utilize acquired skills to function in leader and follower positions in squad- and platoon-sized elements in a stressful and demanding field environment involving various tactical situations.

The second lieutenant will serve as a member of a designated unit in the Texas Army National Guard. The soldier has served in the military for three years.

He is the son of Robert L. and Harriet D. Nelson of Woodbury, Minn.

His parents, Paul L. and Bonny L. Pederson, reside in Siren.

His wife, Heather, is the daughter of LaVerne and Deborah Anderson of Edgeley, N.D. Pederson is a 1993 graduate of Woodbury High School. - submitted

Grandparents are David and Juienne Ciotta of Sioux Falls, S.D., Dawn Jewell of Webster, and Jeff and Julie Chell of Siren.

Great-grandparents are Connie Ciotta of Sioux Falls, S.D., Don and Marlys Chell of Grantsburg and Tom and Karen Jewell of Webster.

•••

Born at SCRMC:

A boy, James Myron Calabria, born Dec. 9, 2009, to Haylie R. Nielsen and James W. Calabria, Balsam Lake. James weighed 5 lbs., 1 oz.

••• A girl, Avery Joy Folkestad, born Dec. 10, 2009, to Chris and Katie Folkestad, St. Croix Falls. Avery weighed 6 lbs., 4 oz.

••• A girl, Olivia Renae McSorley, born Dec. 10, 2009, to Bridget Deggan and Dave McSorley, Osceola. Olivia weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A boy, Wyatt James Carlson, born Dec. 12, 2009, to Ashley L. Miller and Sam J. Carlson,

Frederic. Wyatt weighed 7 lbs., 3 oz.

••• A boy, Oliver Earl Miron, born Dec. 13, 2009, to Jenna M. Miller and Timmothy M. Miron, Osceola. Oliver weighed 8 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A boy, Masyn James Bauerfield, born Dec. 14, 2009, to Crystal L. Vitalis and Matthew R. Bauerfield, St. Croix Falls. Masyn weighed 9 lbs., 8 oz.

••• A boy, Brody Roy Sogard, born Dec. 14, 2009, to Rebecca J. and Eric R. Sogard, Lindstrom, Minn. Brody weighed 9 lbs., 2 oz.

••• A girl, Leilanii Nicole-Mechele Richardson, born Dec. 15, 2009, to Vanessa M. Mosay, Luck and Joshua J. Richardson, Milltown.

Leilanii weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz.

•••

Due To The New Year Holiday, The Deadline For Articles & Ad Copy For The Inter-County Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Published on Tues., Dec. 29 Will Be

Monday, Dec. 28 at 10 a.m.

Inter-County Cooperative Publishing Association

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Born at Amery Medical Center:

303 N. Wisconsin Ave. Frederic, Wis.

715-327-4236

24154 State Rd. 35N Siren, Wis.

715-349-2560

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

715-483-9008

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 7

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER Lewis The memorial service for John Webb was held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church in Lewis. The UMW laid out and served the prepared lunch that was brought in. Pastor Tom Cook officiated. Sympathy is extended to the family.

The Disciples of God presented a very fine Christmas program during the regular 8:45 a.m. Sunday service. Reading Scripture, singing and recitations were part of the program. It just happened to be the third Sunday of the month, which traditionally is Mission

Sunday, with the special offering collected for the D.O.G.’s. Teachers are Starr Warndahl, Marlene Nelson, Gail Lane and Alice Ford.

Monetary gifts were given to Pastor Tom and Ione Cook, organist Gloria Chell and pianist Starr Warndahl for their faithful service.

Making the presentation was LaVonne Boyer, chairman of the board.

A list of donors for flowers/plants was an insert in Sunday’s bulletin.

The Christmas program was a special treat for the congregation, along with a medley of Christmas favorites sung by the choir.

Bernice Abrahamzon

Other treats were apples given to Sunday worshipers, carrying out a tradition followed for many years by Bernice and Martin Peterson; bags of mixed popcorn from Martin Peterson and the Popcorn Factory in the Cities; and oranges from John Glockzin and Mickey Lenz. A triple treat!

It was also a treat at coffee time with cookies, caramel corn, vegetable tray, coffee cake, etc.

Members of the Frederic Scrabble Club enjoyed a Christmas cookie/coffee break on Monday, in the community room of the Sun-

rise Apartments, Frederic. They meet at 1 p.m.

Have you seen the calendars published by the Leader this year? Beautiful photographs, many of birds in this area. Available at the Leader office.

LaVerne Leep went out to Carol and Lee Mangelsen’s home on Sunday afternoon, where grandchildren Ethan and Emmy and Carol made several gingerbread houses.

Burnett Community Library Poet LaMoine MacLaughlin visited us Tuesday evening with readings from his new book of poetry “A Scent of Lilac and other poems.” MacLaughlin is the first poet laureate of Amery, and held us spellbound as we listened to an hour of his poetry.

Preschool story hour

We meet every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m.

This is a small, informal story time. Adults are invited to sit in with their toddlers and enjoy some wonderful children’s stories.

Adult book club

No discussion this month. On Jan. 26, at 10 a.m., the group will discuss “Driftless,” by David Rhodes. Everyone is welcome at book club meetings. You do not have to complete the book. Just be interested in discussing it.

If you need a copy, please contact the library and we will be glad to get a copy for you.

The library will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25, in observance of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Also on New Years’ Day. Beginning on Jan. 1, our library will be hosting a new database called “CountryWatch Premium with Youth Edition.” It will provide daily news coverage and information on each of the 192 recognized countries of the world

– demographic, political, economic, business, cultural and environmental. It will widen your awareness of the international global world within which we live and of important political events evolving in our world.

The Youth Edition is tailored to young students exploring the countries of the world and global events. It combines background information on specific countries, covers current events, provides a guide to the formation of countries within the global context, has curriculum-based resources and colorful international images. You will be able to access this program from your home computer by using your library card number.

The Web page address is www.countrywatch.com.

New adult fiction books

• “Trial By Fire,” by J.A. Jance • “‘U’ is for Undertow,” by Sue Grafton • “Victorian Christmas,” by Catherine Palmer • “Run For Your Life,” by James Patterson • “Promises of Change,” by Joan Medlicott • “A Measure of Mercy,” by Lauraine Snelling • “Gatehouse,” by Nelson DeMille • “Cruel Intent,” by J.A. Jance • “What Angels Fear,” by C.S. Harris • “What Remains of Heaven,” by C.S. Har-

Frederic Public Library Holiday hours

The library will be closed Thursday, Dec. 24 and Friday, Dec. 25. Library open hours will be 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 31, and the library will be closed Friday, Jan. 1. Happy holidays to everyone!

Preschool movie time

Wednesday-morning preschool story time will take a break and resume Jan. 6. Children and caregivers are invited to come for movie time Wednesday, Dec. 23, at 10:30 a.m., for “Shaun the Sheep: Back in the Ba-a-ath.”

Join us again for movie time Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 10:30 a.m. for “Signing Time: the Zoo Train.”

Vacation activities at the library

Here’s the schedule of special activities during the school break. The Tweens book group meets Monday, Dec. 28, at 1 p.m., to talk about “My One Hundred Adventures,” by Polly Horvath. Family movie time will be held Monday, Dec. 28, at 3 p.m., “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian,” and Tuesday, Dec. 29, at 3 p.m., “Santa Buddies.”

Everyone is invited for family game time Wednesday, Dec. 30, from 1 to 4 p.m.

The library has many card and board games

available, or people can bring their favorite games to play that day.

Giving a gift to the library

‘Tis the season when many people generously give to their favorite charities and nonprofit groups. Consider the library when you make your year-end contributions – it’s as easy as writing a check, and we can give you a receipt for tax purposes. A gift of $100 or more will provide you the opportunity to have a leaf engraved in memory or in honor of loved ones and added to the donor tree plaque in the library entrance as a lasting remembrance. If you are interested in creating a donor leaf, please contact the library director to discuss your wishes.

Hours and information

Frederic Public Library, 127 Oak St. West.

715-327-4979, e-mail fredericpl@ifls.lib.wi.us. Regular hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Story time is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. for preschoolers and their caregivers.

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ris • “A Blue and Gray Christmas,” by Joan Medlicott • “The Wrecker,” by Clive Cussler • “A Brief History of Montmaray,” by Michelle Cooper • “Dawn’s Prelude,” by Tracie Peterson

New adult nonfiction books

• “The Blind Side,” by Michael Lewis • “Half-Broke Horses,” by Jeanette Walls • “True Compass,” by Edward M. Kennedy • “Thornton Wilder: Collected Plays & Writings on Theater,” by J.D. McClatchy

New DVDs

• “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian” • “I Dreamed of Africa” • “Radio Flyer” • “The Note” • “Faith Like Potatoes” • “The Holiday” • “Public Enemies” • “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” • “The Adventures of Milo and Otis”

Juvenile books

• “Bear Feels Sick,” by Karma Wilson • “Bear Stays Up for Christmas,” by Karma

All of the animals and staff at the Arnell Shelter are wishing you and yours a very merry Christmas.

We hope your holidays are filled with laughter and good cheer.

Thank you to all who have supported the animals this past year. Each kitty cuddle, donation or kind word is greatly appreciated. Your caring keeps our spirits high. Each adoption is a

Wilson • “Little Quack,” by Lauren Thompson • “Little Quack’s Hide and Seek,” by Lauren Thompson • “My Favorite Christmas Songs,” by Tatia M. Lockridge • “Christy Volume 4,” by Catherine Marshall • “Adventures of Benny and Watch (Vol. 112),” by Gertrude Chandler Warner • “Boxcar Children (Vol. 1-19),” by Gertrude Chandler Warner • “Richard Scarry’s Favorite Christmas Carols” • “A Season of Gifts,” by Richard Peck • “Chaucer’s First Winter,” by Stephen Krensky • “If You Take a Mouse to the Movies: A Special Christmas Edition,” by Laura Numeroff • “Otis,” by Loren Long • “Signal,” by Cynthia DeFelice • “Never Smile at a Monkey,” by Steve Jenkins • “Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep,” by Maureen Wright

Hours:

Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Arnell Humane Society Happy Tails

Await

blessing. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St. E, Amery, WI 54001, 715 268-7387 or online: arnellhumane.org

St. Croix Valley Senior Center

by Carol VanBuskirk

With only two weeks left in the year 2009, we are all in anticipation of what 2010 has in store for us. Most of us have said a special prayer for good health, which correlates with good health insurance. May we all be blessed with an abundance of food to eat.

Hopefully for those of us who drive a lot, that gasoline prices stay low. Use your telephone to call a family member or special friend and offer to run an errand for someone, they may return the favor. Learn a new card game and share it at the senior center. Stay active, every day share what you have. It’s the best gift of all.

Tuesday 500 winners had Bren Nel Ward leading the group of 22 players with a score of 5,070. Jim Anderson, Ron Flostrand and Phil Mevisson were the other winners. Seven Domino players had Ione White, George Meixner, Janice Mevisson and Martha Lundstrom as winners.

Thursday was extra busy with our monthly potluck and meeting. Jennifer Randall from the RiverBank spoke to us on our property

and liability insurance coverage. In the evening, 18 people were back to play 500 cards. Betty Wilson led the winners with a score of 3,770. Jeanne Thomforhda, Phil Mevisson and Bob Norlander were the other winners. Shirley and Bren Nel won the 9 bid.

Many enjoyed playing Bingo on Friday afternoon. Jeanne Thomforhda won the holiday ham for the coverall game.

Gratitude is extended to our board members who have led us over the past year; to Junior Lindh for shoveling snow and work inside the center; to all the daily volunteers and hosts and hostesses; to those of you that bring in treats to share; to George Meixner and Don Benson for calling the Bingo games; to Jamie Mevisson for organizing the monthly birthday parties; and to Ron and Elaine Edlund for organizing our New Year’s Eve party and other special parties throughout the year.

Remember our coffeepot and treats are available daily. Come and check us out. My special wish to everyone is for a very happy and prosperous new year.

Academic news EAU CLAIRE – Commencement exercises for students at the University of WisconsinEau Claire were Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, in Zorn Arena.

Local students who received degrees and their fields of study are:

Webster Bradley Larrabee, MSE, special education.

•••

PAGE 8 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

TOWN TALK/COUNTRY CHATTER 468-2940

Dewey - LaFollette

Nina and Lawrence Hines went to the Twin Cities Sunday, Dec. 13. They attended the Sunday school Christmas program of great-granddaughter Aubrey Harrison and Joshua Kukowski. Then they stayed overnight with daughter and sonin-law, Nancy and Steve Hagen.

Donna Hines went to the Christmas celebration of the AFLC women at Timberland Lutheran Church Tuesday evening.

Lida and Don Nordquist went to Frederic Tuesday evening to attend the school Christmas program for grandson, Caleb Schott.

Hank and Karen Mangelsen visited Lawrence and Nina Hines Tuesday evening.

Donna and Nina Hines, Lida Nordquist, Karen Mangelsen, Kay Krentz, Lorri McQuade and Pat Bahrke were guests of Marlene Swearingen Wednesday afternoon. They enjoyed a time of visiting and playing cards.

Folks in the area were saddened to hear that Pauline and Richard Lawrences’ barn burned down Wednesday night.

What a tremendous loss of equipment, feed and animals.

Congratulations to Randy and Tara Mangelsen on the arrival of their first baby, a boy born Dec. 17. Paternal grandparents are Hank and Karen Mangelsen. The baby, Henry William Mangelsen, is named after his grandfathers.

Lawrence and Nina Hines went to Eden Prairie, Minn., Fri-

Karen Mangelsen

day to visit grandson, Ryan Hagen. He was staying with his parents, Nancy and Steve Hagen, on a visit from his home in Florida.

Karen and Hank Mangelsen traveled with Jake, Holly and Grace Mangelsen and April Close to Menomonee Falls, Friday to see their new grandson, nephew and cousin, Henry William Mangelsen. They returned home that night.

Judy and Greg Leonard hosted a Christmas supper and party Saturday evening at their home. Those who came were Trudy and Tim DeLawyer, Sandy and Bernard Redding, Dixie and Chuck Andrea, Beth and Garry Crosby, Kay Krentz and Kris Fjelstad.

The young people of Lakeview United Methodist Church presented their Christmas program Sunday during the worship service. The title of the play was “Good News Flash!” and the children did a great job. Sunday school teachers are Noel Knoop and Janet Nelson.

Weekend guests of Karen and Hank Mangelsen were Larry, Heidi, Celie and Baxter Mangelsen. Sunday visitors were Holly, Hannah and Grace Mangelsen, and April, Dave, Patty and Mandy Close. Mandy’s birthday was celebrated.

by Ardyce Knauber

Spades was played Monday, Dec. 14, at 1 p.m., with the following winners: Lillian Murphy in first place, Hazel Hoffman in second place and Eleanor Bonneville in third place.

The snow and cold has discouraged some of our seniors from coming to the center. Pokeno is played Wednesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m.

Thursday night 500 cards was played with the following winners: Shirley Sandquist in first place, Phyllis Peterson in second place, Hazel Hoffman in third place and Tim Abrahamzon in fourth place.

Saturday was a mini buffet, cards, Pokeno or Bingo.

Last Saturday Santa Claus visited us at 1 p.m. We appreciated his visit.

We will be closed Christams Eve and Christmas Day and also New Year’s Eve. We will have our annual New Year’s Day potluck dinner on New Year’s Day at noon.

Looking forward to important dates in 2010: We will have tax aides here Feb. 4 and March 12, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Have a happy holiday.

Siren

Cloverton-Markville kids who came this year, and the appearance of some weekenders, namely Mike Johnson, Pete Peterson and Ron and Mary Mosser.

Another heartfelt get-together was the annual Christmas party held at the senior dining center right over the border in Cozy Corner. Program direct Pat Kinblom, with help from Diana Wolf and Jo Masters, provided loads of fun for all.

Cloverton/Markville persons who went were Darlene Merimonte, Clara Lilly, Cheryl Wickham, Marlene and Don Mishler and Fran and Dave Baker. In addition to the senior meal, we ate Christmas goodies that each of us provided. We played a game of making small words from the letters in the words “Merry Christmas” and had two different door-prize drawings. Fran Levings came up with the most little words and almost everyone won a door prize. Pat also gave each attendee a gift of a print of one of her drawings. Gratitude to Pat for all the hard work and the gift.

Enjoy the holiday season, wherever you are.

Last Wednesday evening while heading home from some last-minute Christmas shopping in Spooner, just before you would reach Hertel we saw an ominous red-orange glow in the sky that we knew at once as a fire blazing close by. Sure enough, shortly, not one, but a total of five fire trucks were heading to the scene. The sirens of fire trucks trigger memories of my dad, Otto Martin. He was the chief of the Hermantown Volunteer Fire Department for many years. Many a time we saw him come home from a fire with his fire hat and coat covered with ice after fighting a winter fire, and sometimes with a grim look on his face and you knew it wasn’t good.

Thank God for these heroes, and heroes they are, as they put their very lives on the line every time they answer the alarm.

A large group of Siren Lioness enjoyed their annual Christmas party on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the West Sweden Skol Haus. The meal was great. The group enjoyed their usual Christmas games and all members came away with at least one gift.

Congratulations to middle-schooler Laura Carlson and highschooler Zach Howard for being chosen Siren Schools students of the week.

Sympathy to the family of John E. Sears, who passed away on Dec. 8.

The Siren Lioness/U.S. Banks mitten tree has been taken down and distributed to the Siren, Webster, Grantsburg, Nelson and Mina Copeland schools, with the rest going to Connections. This year’s tree was beautifully decorated with 146 pairs of mittens, 104 hats and headbands and 38 scarves.

The Siren Lioness would like to express their appreciation to the great bunch of knitters and crocheters who did a great job of decorating this year’s tree.

My wish for all my readers is that you all have a safe and happy Christmas and the best to you all in the new year. Plus a safe travel for all who will be traveling.

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Two very enjoyable recent holiday events provided a lot of fun for many of us out here in this area of Pine Country.

The annual all-community Christmas party was held at the Cloverton Town Hall on Dec. 12. Town hall housekeepers, Marlene Mishler and Peggy Coveau, made sure the hall was beautifully trimmed, while town clerk Fran Levings set up the agenda for the evening.

Everyone, first of all, ate a potluck dinner, then door prizes were distributed.

Mary and Frank Schaaf, Al Wolf, Dave Baker and Fran Levings donated the door prizes. Big winners were Ron Wickham, Clara Lilly, Marge Wolf, Adam Fornengo, Cheryl Wickham, Al Wolf and a young girl named Rianna, whose last name I do not know.

A charades game of commercial holiday tunes was played and the winners of this event were Robin Fornengo, Marit Heidbreder, Jan Proffit, Luke Wegner and Pete Peterson.

The evening culminated with all playing the old dice game where dozens of prizes had been donated.

Some special highlights of the party were the abundance of

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DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 9

Dairy Economic Loss Assistance Program available BALSAM LAKE - The USDA Farm Service Agency Dairy Economic Loss Assistance Payment Program provides a one-time payment to assist dairy producers who have experienced low milk prices and high production costs during 2009.

The program provides $290 million for direct payments to dairy producers.

Eligible producers must have produced milk between February 2009 and July 2009. Current eligible Milk Income Loss Contract participants do not need to complete an application. Production that has all ready been submitted for the MILC program will be used for the DELAP program. FSA is currently processing DELAP payments and will be available to MILC producers soon.

Producers that do not have a current

MILC contract on file with FSA will need to meet eligibility requirements. To be eligible a dairy producer must: • Have produced milk in the U.S. and commercially marketed the milk at any time between February 2009 and July 2009, • Be a producer who directly or indirectly shares in the risk of production, • Provide monthly production from February 2009 to July 2009, • Submit an accurate and complete request for benefits, • Have an annual average adjusted nonfarm income of $500,000 or less, • Comply with USDA provisions for highly erodible land and wetlands, • Not have been convicted of a controlled substance violation.

Producers who do not participate in

the MILC program will have until Jan. 19, 2010, to submit the necessary information for payment. The necessary information includes: • Name and location of the dairy operation, • Contact information for the dairy operation, including telephone number, • Name, percentage share and tax identification number for the entity or individual receiving a share in the payment, • Proof of production for the qualifying months.

The information listed may be received by mail, fax or e-mail. Necessary information for payment must be received by Jan. 19, 2010. Producers who do not receive MILC benefits may submit the necessary information to the following:

FSA-USDA-Stop 0512 1400 Independence Ave, SW Washington, DC 20250-0512 Attn: DELAP program Fax: 202-690-1536 E-mail: Danielle.Cooke@wdc.usda.gov The payment calculation for DELAP benefits is the total production between February 2009 and July 2009 multiplied by two not to exceed 6-million pounds per dairy operation times the national per hundredweight rate times the producers share in the operation.

Producers already considered eligible for the MILC program should receive the DELAP payment by the end of December. - from USDA

Area youth present free concert OSCEOLA - The public is invited to a free concert featuring a coed Youth In Harmony chorus. The performance is on Jan. 16, at 4:30 p.m. in the Osceola High School Auditorium.

The Youth In Harmony concert will consist of close to 140 local students coming from Amery, Luck, Osceola, Somerset, St. Croix Falls, New Richmond, Unity, Boyceville, Spring Valley and others. It will also include several college students returning from last year’s event. This musical performance will highlight the barbershop and the traditional choral styles of music while capturing lessons learned and applied

during a day long Youth In Harmony festival hosted by the Indianhead Chorus Croix Chordsmen and Vallee de Croix, barbershop choruses.

One of the most rewarding and growing activities within the barbershop music international and local organizations is introducing young people to the barbershop style of music. Barbershop singing allows singers to take some liberties with music that aren’t usually enjoyed in other musical art forms.

Barbershop music offers a unique and exciting challenge with special musical introductions, tags and the barbershopspecific baritone part. When the barber-

Veteran suicide rate is high STATEWIDE – A new study shows Wisconsin veterans make up a high percentage of recorded suicides in Wisconsin.

Findings show approximately 20.8 percent of suicides in the state were committed by veterans, even though as a group, they make up just 8 percent of Wisconsin’s population.

The state Department of Health Services, the Injury Research Center at the University of Wisconsin and the group Mental Health America did the study. It was presented at a recent meeting of the board of Veterans Affairs.

Marvin Freedman chairs that board.

He wants the VA to appoint a staff member to address the latest report. Freed-

man calls the report “very troubling.” He says the suicide rate among veterans is “very significantly above the rate for nonveterans.”

Kenneth Black is the secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs. He says he was not surprised by the study because the issue of veterans suicide has been an ongoing concern for his department.

While suicides among veterans are difficult to track, Black says his office sees it as a growing problem for soldiers, many who’ve had multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. VA officials hope to meet with the authors of the study at the next board meeting in January. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Kirk Carapezza)

Yoga classes now offered at SCRMC ST. CROIX FALLS – You’ve likely heard someone – a friend, co-worker or relative perhaps – talk about the enjoyment and benefits they get from yoga, including feeling more calm and peaceful, increased strength and flexibility, and improved balance and posture. If you’ve never tried yoga, here’s a chance to do so with no commitment! SCRMC’s talented and experienced instructor, Julie Karsky, is offering a free introductory class in hatha yoga at the medical center on Jan. 2 and Jan. 9, 2010, from 9 to 9:45 a.m. In this introductory session, you will learn the proper practice of the foundational steps for hatha yoga, as well as body alignment, breathing, and moving into poses and postures.

Following the introductory session, for a small fee, participants may continue instruction in Karsky’s regularly held beginner’s class, held from 10 a.m to 11 a.m.

Karsky also offers a weekly advanced practice class, held from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. each Saturday. Cost is $5 per session, or $25 for six sessions.

Classes will be held in the St. Croix Falls Clinic’s Physical Rehab Center on the third floor, 216 So. Adams, St. Croix Falls.

For more information, contact Julie

shop chords ring, it is unlike any other style of music.

As the two largest musical education organizations outside of school and college, Sweet Adelines International and the Barbershop Harmony Society are pleased to assist the local chapters in bringing this unique event to the area.

Local residents, Kathy Lucken, Carolyn Ward, Jon Buss, Steve Osero, Warren Wilson and Victoria Salmon are the event coordinators for this fun and educational Youth In Harmony experience.

The Vallee de Croix, Croix Chordsmen

and Indianhead choruses are all avid supporters of promoting musical programs in area schools, and have donated portions of their show proceeds to funding programs for young singers. For more information on the event coordinating choruses please visit them on the Internet.

Vallee de Croix Chorus www.valleedecroix.org Croix Chordsmen www.stcroixvalleychapter.com Chorus Indianahead www.indianheadchorus.org - submitted

Rural health providers concerned about looming Medicaid cuts STATEWIDE - As the economy has worsened more people have relied on Medicaid, putting strain on a program that could have a billion-dollar shortfall if cuts aren’t made. Rural health-care providers worry they could be hit especially hard.

The Doyle administration has put forth a plan to trim Medicaid. Some of those affected don’t like it. Rural hospitals are bracing for a 10-percent cut in Medicaid reimbursement. Eric Borgerding, with the Wisconsin Hospital Association, says small rural hospitals provide an array of services beyond their walls, like nursing homes, hospice programs and assisted living, services that would be diminished with less state money.

The administration’s plan is to cut $600 million from Medicaid through various

means, including the use of cheaper generic drugs and lower payments to rural hospitals. Phil Montgomery is skeptical that cost savings will be enough to cover the shortfall. The Republican from Ashwaubenon also notes that Wisconsin’s Medicaid budget has gone up more than other midwestern states. He says Medicaid spending is much lower in Michigan and Minnesota.

He questions whether Gov. Jim Doyle has bitten off too much in expanding the program.

After the new year, the administration plans to appoint a panel to look at further Medicaid cuts to the program known as BadgerCare Plus. - Wisconsin Public Radio (Shamane Mills)

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(Mary Anderson not shown in photo.)

We want to wish you all a Safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Thank you so much for your business, and don’t forget to bring your donations in for the food shelf and get $2 off product of your choice.

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Karsky at 715-483-5158 or e-mail her at 2karsky@centurytel.net, or contact Sarah Shaw at 715-483-0431 in the education dept. - Photo/text from SCRMC

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PAGE 10 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

I’m back!

Christmas for Kids is over and all but .002 percent was completely successful. The percent is the number of people of the 561 children’s mothers who were not at all happy with the gifts their children received.

I keep thinking, if we had not given them gifts, although they were not the ones they had hoped for, they would have had nothing. We can’t do everything for everyone and there will always be someone who is not happy with the outcome, but as it says on the wish list, we do the best we can. We have received some wonderful thank-you notes and one mother even brought wild rice in for all of us as a thank-you. We don’t have Christmas for Kids for the thank-yous, but they sure are nice and make up for the unhappy mothers.

I am beginning thank-you notes tomorrow and if I forget someone please let me know. I try hard to remember everyone, but there are so many wonderful people who donate, it is hard not to miss one here or there. As a matter of fact, one lovely blond lady brought some toys in last minute. In the bottom of the bag she left a computer or camera memory card. This card may be important to her and I have it if she will contact me. I wish I remember who it was, but people were coming and going and it was becoming overwhelming for me. Sometimes I just have to step back and shed some tears before I can get back into the swing of things. People are so giving. People are so caring. I worry and agonize over the statistics and numbers of donations and, will we have enough, will each child get something, and will each be happy and surprised. I take to heart the ones who are unhappy.

I should think, you had nothing and now you have something and you should be happy. I keep thinking we might have done more, still our donations only go so far. Next year we will do better.

It is the end of 2009. I have to actually go through

Barb

Blodgett

Caregiver's

Gifts

the world.

Speaking of Denny, I wish I had his strength of character. He is an amazing man and would rather be in the background than in the forefront. Everyone who knows him loves him, because he gives his all and he actually cares about people. He is concerned, compassionate and compelled. Concerned for all of those we can help. Compassionate for everyone and compelled to do his best at everything he does. I won the prize, he loves me. That makes my world go around. Usually he critiques my articles and “red pencils” the spelling and punctuation mistakes. Not this time. He would never let this last paragraph get through. I wanted you to know, though, that Denny is truly a gift to me.

We don’t give each other gifts for Christmas. The nativity scene is the only Christmas decoration in our house. I think by the time Christmas for Kids is over

Recycling naughty and nice lists for holiday decorations and gift wrappings Even if you’ve been a good recycler all year long, what to do with holiday decorations and gift wrap may present a challenge. Is wrapping paper recyclable? What about Christmas tree ornaments? Tinsel? To answers those questions, Allied Waste Services has its own naughty and nice lists of recyclable holiday mate-

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my date book to try to remember what my year was like. I remember the highlights like my grandson graduating from college and getting ready for his January wedding. My granddaughter finding her true love. My daughter’s visits to help me “organize” my life. My almost granddaughter that God decided we didn’t need right now. My son’s visit with his beautiful boys and the night I watched my grandson get a Mohawk haircut to the horror of his mother. I remember friends visits and friends lost. I count my blessings every day because I have the most wonderful grandchildren and children and the best, most wonderful husband in

Nice (recyclable) Gift boxes Tissue paper Shoe boxes Holiday cards/envelopes Gift bags (if paper)

Jen Barton Earth

rials. If you are using the green recycling drop-off containers located throughout Burnett and Washburn counties please follow rules below; if you are with another hauler such as Waste Management, please contact them with specific questions regarding holiday decoration and gift wrap recycling/disposal.

Wrapping paper, while it contains paper, cannot be recycled because it is often dyed and laminated and may contain nonpaper additives, such as gold and silver coloring, glitter and plastics.

Ribbons and bows cannot be recycled because they aren’t paper products. Christmas trees must be stripped of all decorations — tinsel, lights, bells, ornaments, etc.— before the tree can be mulched or composted. Please contact your local municipalities to see

Notes

we are just Christmased out. We remember the reason for the season and go to bed at our usual 9 p.m. if we can even stay up that late. Sometimes we stay up for midnight Mass in Spooner, but often we have to wait till Christmas morning. I don’t know if I told you the story about “Silent Night.” This is Denny’s favorite Christmas song and at one Mass they did not get around to singing it and we were getting close to the end of the service. We were singing along with the choir and I looked over to see Denny mouthing the words to “Silent Night.” Everyone around us was noticing and we were moving down the pew away from him. He got his “Silent Night” and all was well and all was bright. We sang it all the way home.

I look forward to 2010. I will be more organized and I will not be so frantic. I will help everyone I can, but I will delegate duties instead of doing so much myself. I will make other people feel needed and let them get the joy of giving. I will love more, sing more and file more papers. Doesn’t that sound like a reasonable resolution? I will not resolve to lose weight.

When I concentrate on that it never works. I will concentrate on portion control. I will not bake when there is no chocolate in the house. I will eat just a few chocolate chips and be satisfied. I will not get carried away, much like I am doing right now.

I will continue to write to you every couple of weeks and be forever grateful for my loyal readers. I will always try to be there when I am needed.

Thank you for a good 2009. My best wishes to all of you for a terrific 2010. I hope you learn to date your checks 2010 before March. It always takes me that long.

Happy New Year and blessings, Barb

Naughty (not recyclable) Bubble wrap (consider reusing) Wrapping paper (consider reusing) Ribbon and bows (consider reusing) Anything on the tree Sticky gift labels Gift bags if coated, laminated, dyed Foam peanuts if they offer Christmas tree pickup/composting.

There are creative and practical ways to reuse items that are not recyclable. For example, use sustainable packing materials when packing and sending gifts. Instead of purchasing new foam peanuts, use shredded newspaper or even popcorn. Foam peanuts are made from polystyrene and are usually not recyclable. If you receive foam peanuts in packages, consider reusing them for later shipping.

For those holiday greeting cards you receive this season, recycle paperboard and paper envelopes. If you just can’t bear to toss them in the bin, use them to make a festive gift tag.

If you have any questions regarding recycling, reusing or reducing please call or e-mail Jen at 715-6352197, or jbarton@nwrpc.com. Merry Christmas!

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DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 11

Unity High School holiday concert LEFT: A flute solo was performed by Naomi Williamson during the Unity choir performance at their recent holiday concert.

– Photos by Jeanne Alling

The Harmonics, a group of Unity High School jazz band students performed at their recent holiday concert. Among their members are: Tim Hallin, Katherine Ebensperger, Nate Dorrance and Maddie Anderson.

Unity honors choir members performed at the Unity holiday concert. Students included: Jake Monahan, Tayler Matteson, Amanda Brunotte, Josh Eaton, Brady Flaherty, Brooke Gillespie and Amanda Koethe.

Unity’s vocal jazz group sang at their holiday concert. Members include (L Dylan Hendricks and Steven Krueger were a part of Unity’s jazz ensemble, which performed during their recent holiday concert. Krueger also performed to R): Matt Koethe, Jake Monahan, Brandon Mooney, Tayler Matteson, Lexi Jones, Amanda Koethe, Alicia Milander and Jessica Larson. a solo during the concert.

Luck kindergartens display gingerbread houses

Kindergartener Gavyn Ellefson proudly displays the gingerbread house he made with his mother’s help during Luck’s gingerbread house-building workshop for kindergarten students and their parents.

Kindergartener Keenan Hacker and his mom Jen show off the gingerbread house they created during Luck’s gingerbread house-building workshop for kindergarten students and their parents. – Photos by Lori Nelson

PAGE 12 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Frederic 4-6 holiday program

Fourth-graders sing “Frosty & Friends.” Rudolf was played by Zach Peterson.

The reindeer gather to pull Santa and his sleigh. Reindeer (shown in no particular order) are Mark Siebenthal, Kyle Olson, Anna Johnson, Maddie Ammend, Andrew Hochstetler, Ben Phernetton, Tyler Santa, played by Brady Evans, tells everyone Nelson and Marto “Believe.” cus McIntyre.

Photos by Becky Amundson Sixth-graders sing ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas,” led by soloist Kinzie Chase Rowe Matz. Mice (not dances to “Jingle shown) were Bell Boogie.”

Kendra Erickson, Emily Amundson, and Thorvo Lundeen, Roman Poirier, Kyle Knauber and Austin Ennis.

All-school assembly held at St. Croix Falls Middle School

On Tuesday, Dec. 22, the St. Croix Falls Middle School held an all-school assembly at 9 a.m. for the purpose of presenting a check to the Jenna Frenette family. Jenna was a student in the middle school for four years. She is now a freshman in the high school. Jenna has septo-optic dysplasia and is blind. She will be traveling to China with her dad next month for a treatment which, hopefully, will restore her sight. Several benefits were held within the community to help defray the travel and medical costs. Students brought in over $1,800. They also collected items for soldier care packages and the Serenity House in Balsam Lake.

Shirley Schoenberger, shelter manager for the Serenity House, will also be at the assembly to thank the students for their contributions. Last week, seventh- and eighth-grade students participated in community service activites. Some rang bells at MarketPlace and Wal-Mart for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. Others visited residents at the Good Samaritan Home and Comforts of Home. Several helped out at the local food shelf and Serenity House. Others stayed at school to assemble care packages for deployed soldiers and make cards for the hospital. - Special photos

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 13

Middle-schoolers make music in Webster Photos by Carl Heidel

by Carl Heidel WEBSTER - They sing in their choirs and play in their bands, and they are the fifth- and sixthgraders at Webster Middle School. Last Thursday, Dec. 17, they displayed their talents for families and friends in a holiday concert at the high school cafetorium.

With Jim Muus directing the choirs and Julie Strang directing the bands, the students filled the air with music, some of it challenging. As a prelude to the fifth-grade band performance, Strang noted that the students had had their instruments for only three months, but they were ready to show the community what they could do.

And judging from the applause for the two choirs and two bands, the sounds of the holiday season that they offered were sweet indeed.

The name of the piece was “Shout!” and so the sixth-grade choir did what they should. They shouted loudly and enthusiastically.

(L to R): Destiny Inkman, Clare Stubbe, Logan Grey and Sunny Cone added their voices to the choir’s blend.

Alec Ralph’s folks never have any trouble pickNo, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. ing him out in the band. How could you miss a Alex Strang’s trombone is longer than he is tuba? tall.

Baking at Siren School

A group of Siren School staff and family members gathered at the school Wednesday, Dec. 16, to make cookies for Burnett County Interfaith Caregivers to distribute to people in need of extra cheer this Christmas.

Last year the goal was 1,500 cookies. This year’s goal of 2,000 cookies was met because of the work of (L to R) front: Brady Kosloski, Taegon Nichols, Rylee O’Brien, Abby Kosloski and Maddy Nichols. Back: Cheryl Siren School Principal Jason Wilhelm helped Turnbull, Barb and Arne Holcomb, Becky Witte, Jason Wilhelm, Kristin Kosloski, Heather O’Brien, Cathy Hinze, first-grader Brady Kosloski cut out cookies durJanet Thomas, JoAnn Treichel, Bonnie Johnson, Deb Jaskolka and Connie Virchow. Not pictured: Joyce ing a cookie-baking session after school Johnson, Cindy Yourchuck, Becky Swenson, Britt Merrill and Ashley Bjornstad.

Wednesday, Dec. 16. The decorated cookies, all 2,000 of them, were given to Burnett County Interfaith Caregivers for Christmas distribution.

Taegon Nichols was on hand to help decorate cookies at Siren School Wednesday, Dec. 16. Taegon is shown here with Becky Witte (R) and Kristin Kosloski.

Siren dietary director Debbie Jaskolka credits Burnett Dairy Co-op, Rich’s Products, Holiday Station, Wayne’s Foods Plus and Four Winds Market for supplying the raw materials, and everyone on the school staff who helped with this charitable effort.

Photos by Nancy Jappe

Trays of freshly baked holiday cookies, 2,000 of them in all, were given by members of the Siren School staff and their families to Burnett Interfaith Caregivers for distribution. “It was a lot,” said Barb Holcomb, one of the cookie decorators.

PAGE 14 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Frederic High School Christmas concert

The Wednesday bell choir, under the direction of Mrs. Pat Anderson performed. Shown (L to R): April Halverson, Hailey Kurkowski, Kendra Wells and Will Primm. – Photos by Becky Amundson

Members of the audience joined the choir to sing the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Shown here are Candace Buck and Holly Stoner.

The Frederic High School band, under the direction of Mrs. Patti Burns, had their Christmas concert Sunday, Dec. 20. Shown (L to R): Brittney Hughes and Natalie Phernetton.

The Thursday bell choir, under the direction of Mrs. Pat Anderson, took part in the high school’s Christmas concert. Shown (L to R): McKenna Cook, Emily Wells and Lauren Domagala.

The show choir, under the direction of Mr. Greg Heine; shown (L to R) are members Kendra Wells and Robert Kirk “Checking it Twice,” in the North Pole Rock and Roll Medley.

In the background are Isabel Lexen and Josiah Lund.

Joel Knauber and Will Primm sang solos for the song “Mary Did you Know?”

Luck Middle School

Trumpet players Karsten Petersen, Camille Marsten, Darian Ogilvie and Dylan Skow, drummers Paul Byl and Jillian Klatt and the rest of the seventh- and eighth-grade band play “Midnight Rock” at Luck’s concert on Monday, Dec. 14.

During Luck’s Dec. 14, middle school winter concert, (front) Sheridan Hulett, Alaura Lemieux, (second row) Brittney Donald, Sabrina Rehbein, (third row) Maddie Joy, Brianna Thompson and (back) Julia Campion join the rest of the sixthgrade choir in singing “Santa Lucia.” – Photos by Lori Nelson During the Luck Middle School winter concert, (front L ro R): Zack Lindberg, Jeremiah Johnson, (middle) Robert Bobick, Jordan Hendrickson, (back) Casey Ekholm, Sam Nelson and Noah Musial join the rest of the seventh- and eighth-grade choir in singing “As Long As I Have Music.”

During Luck’s Dec. 14 middle school winter concert, Larissa Succo, Sheridan Hulett, Adrian Spores and Steven Holdt join the rest of the sixth-grade band in playing “Winter Wonderland.”

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 15

Grace Schebo, RN, retires from SCRMC

Grace Schebo – Special photo where there are just too many to meet and remember.”

Grace joins her husband of 38 years, Don, in retirement. The Schebos have two daughters, Kelly and Kari, who are both teachers. “I have two precious grandchildren, 4-year-old Samantha, and Madeline, who’s 2,” she said. “They are very active and loving to their Papa and Nana.”

Schebo’s most immediate plan is to “spend more time with our families, to be more involved in church, and to sort through all the things we’ve collected over the years.” Although she and Don have no set travel plans, she quotes Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope, ” “so I’m looking forward to the future.” Working with so many wonderful people and forming many lasting friendships has been an unforgettable experience for Schebo. “Life goes so fast,” she cautions, “so spend time with your families and friends. God bless all of you.” The medical center is grateful for Schebo’s years of service to their patients.

- from SCRMC

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ST. CROIX FALLS - Grace Schebo began her 36-year career at St. Croix Valley Memorial Hospital in 1973, working as an LPN until 1986 and as a registered nurse until 2009. Looking back on her career, Schebo noted that she has had experience in four departments: PACU, same-day surgery, surgery scheduling and medical/surgical.

“When I first started in 1973,” Schebo explained, “I worked on the north unit, which included obstetrics and intensive care as well as general medical patients.”

When she moved to the surgical unit (which later included chemical dependency treatment), she worked with Dr. Lloyd Olson, who was the hospital’s only surgeon except for a Twin Cities eye specialist and a urologist who came as needed. “It would have been hard to imagine at that time that we would ever have a medical staff as large as we do today!” Schebo later worked on the medical/surgical unit, and at that time, the hospital was licensed for 95 beds. “The unit encompassed the entire second floor of the hospital and often, nearly all the patient rooms were occupied,” she explained.

Schebo noted, too, that she has seen many changes in medicine and technology during her career. She witnessed the introduction of a short-stay surgery department, for example, which began with just three patient rooms and later expanded to six. “The unit was often crowded, unfortunately, and as a result offered little privacy for our patients,” she said. “But probably the most significant change during my career came just two years ago when our new surgery center opened. This beautiful unit now has 14 private patient rooms, which the staff love nearly as much as the patients!”

Other changes Schebo experienced included extensive building remodeling and the introduction of computer systems. Schebo also pointed out that today the medical center employs many more staff than in the past. “During my early years, I knew nearly everyone,” she said, “but today we’ve expanded to the point

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Mark and Judy Foote are shown presenting to Webster Lioness President Gladys Beers a facsimile check for $1,000 on behalf of the Alyce Foote family in her memory. Alyce was one of the charter members of the Webster Lioness Club. With this donation, a new prelighted Christmas tree was purchased for the community center and was decorated and used for Webster’s Santa Day on Dec. 12, a new wooden Lioness display case will be made for the center and a scholarship will be given in her name to a graduating Webster High School senior in 2010. The Lioness Club is very grateful for the Foote family’s generosity. – Photo submitted

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PAGE 16 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

Siren Lioness mitten tree As they have done for many years, the Siren Lioness Club sponsored a mitten tree at U.S. Bank, inviting area knitters to make mittens, caps and scarves to put on the tree. The items collected were removed Wednesday, Dec. 16, and distributed to BC Connection, Siren and Webster schools, the Mina Copeland Head Start Center, Nelson School and Grantsburg Elementary School. Yarn is still available for anyone who would like to get a head start on items for next year’s tree. – Photos by Nancy Jappe

In Observance Of New Year’s, Our Offices Will Be Closed Friday, January 1, 2010.

We Will Reopen on Monday, January 4, 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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Siren Lioness members Evelyn Weber (L) and Hazel Franseen (R) are shown with Carolyn Tegrootenhuis, universal banker for U.S. Bank, Siren, before the Lioness mitten tree at the bank was unloaded. The tree contained 146 pairs of mittens, 104 hats and 38 scarves made and contributed by area residents, to whom much appreciation is sent.

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SATURDAYS AT 11 A.M. & 3 P.M. SUNDAYS AT 11 A.M. SPECIAL AVAILABLE TIMES SAT ., JAN. 16 & 30 AT 7 P.M. *Use 2008 - 2009 final ABC/WIBC (USBC) average. If none, use current average of 12 games or more. 10 pin rule does apply. If no avg. you will bowl scratch.

HDCP is 100% of 200. *Max score is 300. In the event of a tie(s) of 900 score, a roll-off will be held to determine 1st place. The other(s) will assume position in the final standings. *Proposed prize list and rules posted at lanes.

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Roland Mortenson, commander of the St. Croix Falls American Legion Post No. 143, makes a donation to Eloise Anderson of the St. Croix Falls Food Shelf from proceeds of the December fish fry. - Special photo

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 17

CHURCH NEWS Blessed is she who believed

Imagine how Mary must have felt when the angel told her she would give birth to a child—the very Son of God—through miraculous means. But despite her feelings of bewilderment, she believed it would happen.

Imagine how her cousin, Elizabeth, must have felt when Mary told her about the angel’s visitation.

Elizabeth, after having received an angelic visitation, believed for her own miracle. She could say with Perspectives total confidence, “Blessed is she who believed…” (Luke 1:45) and they could act on their belief by making preparations.

What caused these unsuspecting women to believe such impossible claims? They relied on God and adhered to his word. For us who live in newer times, the Bible says we must “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31) That sounds easy to do. But many “believers” believe with their minds only. The distance from head to heart is a mere 18 inches, but for some it may as well be a million miles. Belief in Jesus the Messiah must become a matter of the heart.

“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” Hebrews 11:1 says. The author goes on to say that “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” (verse 6) And he continues with the admonishment, “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith …” (Hebrews 12:1) It’s more difficult to believe in miracles when our hearts are burdened with sin. Our human nature causes us to say, “I won’t believe it until I see it.” But Mary and Elizabeth—and countless others—believed even before they saw it. Because they believed the Old Testament stories of how God had rescued jis people over and over, through miracles, they believed the angels.

Shouldn’t we, like them, expect God to move in miraculous ways today, too? We will, if we adhere to— cling to—his word.

I repeat: belief in Jesus the Messiah must become a matter of the heart, like a child who without thought jumps into his father’s arms with total trust. Like the child we must take the leap of faith.

Lord, as Mary believed the angel based solely on her faith, help me also to believe. In Jesus’ name, amen.

(Mrs. Bair may be reached at sallybair@gmail.com).

Sally Bair Eternal

Jesus, His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful

vinceth 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 helping othFor unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is ers, but not once did He do anything to help given… And His name will be called WonHimself. He had the power to turn stones derful… (Isaiah 9:6) into bread, but went hungry forty days withWonderful means “way beyond the ordiout doing it (Matt 4:1-11). While escaping nary.” We say that Yellowstone Park, Niagfrom enemies who were determined to put ara Falls and the Grand Canyon are Him to death He saw a man who had been wonderful because there is nothing else like blind from birth, and stopped to give him them. When David killed Goliath with his sight, doing so at the risk of His life (John sling he did a wonderful thing, because noHis first miracle was performed, not be9:1). body else ever did anything like it. It was fore a multitude to spread His own fame, wonderful that the Red Sea should open to but in a far-away village, to save newlyweds make a highway for Israel, and wonderful Preacher’s from humiliation (John 2).

He had compasthat the sun should stand still for Joshua. Let sion on the hungry multitude and wept over us see whether Jesus was true to His name.

Jerusalem, but He never had any mercy on HIS BIRTH was wonderful, for no other Himself.

Many, O LORD my God, are Your wonderful ever occurred like it (Matt 1:18-25). It was wonderful in that He had but one human parent, and so inher- works Which You have done; And Your thoughts toward ited the nature of man and the nature of God. There us Cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare was no room for Him at the inn, and He had to be and speak of them, They are more than can be numbered. born in a stable, and cradled in a manger, and yet an- (Psalms 40:5) HIS TEACHING was wonderful. The common gels proclaimed His birth with joy from the sky, to a people heard Him gladly (Mark 12:37). No man had few humble shepherds who were watching their to take a dictionary with him when he went to hear flocks by night. It would have been a great condescenthe Sermon on the Mount. He didn’t care what the sion for Him to have been born in a palace, rocked in and Pharisees thought about it, or said about scribes a golden cradle and fed with silver spoons, and to it.

It is wonderful that this humble Galilean carpenhave had the angels come down and be His nurses. It ter should have made Himself a Teacher of teachers was wonderful the way it happened. for all time (cf.

John 3:2).

Your testimonies are wonderHIS CHARACTER was wonderful, for no other ful; Therefore my soul keeps them.

(Psalms 119:129) has ever approached it in perfection. He “…was in all If readers have questions you would like answered points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews in this weekly column or simply wish to know more 4:15). It is wonderful that the greatest character ever about the Church of Christ, we would like to invite known should have come out of such obscurity, to beyou to call 715-866-7157, visit our Web site come the most famous in all history. “…the chief (www.burnettcountycofc.com) or stop by the church priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that He did, at 7425 W. Birch St., in Webster.

Sunday Bible building and the children crying out in the temple and saying, class begins at 9:30 a.m. and worship begins at 10:30 “Hosanna to the Son of David!”…” (Matthew 21:15) a.m.

We also meet Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m.

OfHIS LIFE was wonderful. Wonderful for its selflessfice hours are Tuesdays through Fridays 9 a.m. noon. ness, its sinlessness, and its usefulness. Who else

Garret Derouin

The

Pen

would be brave enough to ask, “Which of you con-

SIREN—The glorious sounds of another original Christmas cantata filled the sanctuary of the Assembly of God Church in Siren. Conductor and composer Kay Nelson, along with an orchestra and choir, performed “Bells of Christmas” last Sunday night. This was her third-annual concert. This year’s Christmas theme was different. “It was not about the baby Jesus,” said Nelson.

“It was about the king and the kingdom.” She took her text and inspiration from the book of Daniel 7:27-28. Members of her family flew in from both California and Georgia to perform in the classical cantata. – Photo Wayne Anderson

Christmas cantata at Siren Assembly

Area churches Christmas schedules ATLAS – Atlas United Methodist Church Christmas Eve service will be held at 9 p.m. – submitted ••• CENTURIA – Fristad Lutheran Church will have Christmas Eve services at 4 and 9 p.m. The Christmas Day service will be held at 9:30 a.m., and a Christmas carol-sing will be held on Sunday, Dec. 27, at 9:30 a.m.

– submitted ••• North Valley Lutheran Church will have a Christmas Eve services at 4 and 10 p.m. – submitted ••• CUSHING – First Lutheran Church will have a Christmas Eve service at 4 p.m. and a Christmas Day service at 9 a.m. – submitted ••• Laketown Lutheran Church will have a Christmas Eve service at 1:30 p.m. – submitted ••• DAIRYLAND – A candlelight service and vigil will be held at 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24.

– submitted ••• DANBURY – Trinity Lutheran LCMS Christmas Eve service will be held on Dec. 24, at 3 p.m. – submitted ••• FREDERIC – Immanuel Lutheran LCMS Christmas Eve service will be held on Dec. 24, at 5:30 p.m. – submitted •••

GRANTSBURG – Christmas Eve services at Faith Lutheran Church of Grantsburg will be held at 4 and 11 p.m. At both services there will be communion and the lighting of the candles. –– submitted ••• LUCK – Bone Lake Lutheran Church Christmas Eve candlelight services with Holy Communion will be at 4 and 10:30 p.m., on Thursday, Dec. 24. – submitted ••• MILLTOWN – Milltown Lutheran Church's Sunday school Christmas pageant will be on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 5 p.m., followed by a family supper. Christmas Eve services on Thursday, Dec. 24, will be Vespers service at 4 p.m. and the candlelight service at 10:30 p.m. – submitted ••• TAYLORS FALLS, MINN. – Christmas candlelight service in the historic 1861 Taylors Falls United Methodist Church will be on Wednesday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m. The River Valley Brass will play, starting at 6:40 p.m. – submitted ••• The Church of St. Joseph, Taylors Falls has scheduled the following services: Tuesday, Dec. 22, Reconciliation service at 4-8 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve Mass at 10 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day Masses at 7:30 and 10:30 a.m.; Thursday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve Mass, at 5:30 p.m.; and Friday, Jan. 1, New Year’s Day Mass, at 10:30 a.m. – submitted •••

TRADE LAKE – The Trade Lake Baptist Church will have their Julotta service on Friday morning, Dec. 25, at 6 a.m. The church is located seven miles west of Frederic on Hwy. 48.– submitted ••• Zion Lutheran Church, Trade Lake, will hold Christmas Eve services on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 10 p.m. –– submitted ••• WEBSTER – The Our Redeemer LCMS Christmas Eve service will be on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 7:30 p.m. – submitted ••• First Baptist Church of Webster will have their Christmas Eve candlelight service on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 4:30 p.m. – submitted ••• WEST SWEDEN – Grace Lutheran Church of West Sweden will be celebrating the 125th anniversary of the first Julotta service held at Grace on Christmas morning, Friday, Dec. 25, at 6:30 a.m., followed by Swedish fellowship. Christmas Eve services will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 24.– submitted ••• YELLOW LAKE – Yellow Lake Lutheran Church Christmas Eve services will be on Thursday, Dec. 24, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. –– submitted •••

PAGE 18 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

John Layton Webb, resident of Frederic, died Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, at the age of 69.

John was born Sept. 7, 1940, to Wendell and Lillian Webb. He grew up in Salem, Ore. John was a gunsmith by trade and loved hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed spending time with his Dobermans.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother-in-law, Theodore Drahn.

He is survived by his wife, Lynette; daughter, Stacey Webb and her children, Alixandra and Lauren Bookler; stepson, Lucas Radke; sister, Marcia Drahn and BFF, Daniel Keyler.

Funeral services were held at the Lewis Memorial United Methodist Church on Saturday, Dec. 19. Pastor Tom Cook officiated. Full military honors followed the service at the church. Honorary pallbearers were Daniel Keyler, Richard Jones, Wayne Anderson, Lucas Radke, Kendall Jones and Greg Worrel.

Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center of Milltown were entrusted with arrangements.

Duanne M. Hendrickson Duanne M. Hendrickson of Redwing, Minn., formerly of Osceola, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at the Redwing Care Center at the age of 61. Duanne was born Dec. 20, 1947, to Donald and Delphine Hendrickson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Kathleen. He is survived by his brother, Dennis of Barron ; sister, Diane McIntosh of Sequim, Wash.; nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 5, at the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola with Intern Lori Peper, officiating. Interment will be in the Bethesda Cemetery. www.grandstrandfh.com.

Cremation Society Of Northwest Wisconsin

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Gerald M. Beauchamp

Myron Dahl

Gerald "Gondi" Marvin Beauchamp, 52, of Luck, Round Lake Community, died Friday, Dec. 18, 2009, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn.

Gerald graduated from Bagley High School in Bagley, Minn., attended college in Bemidji, Minn., then entered the United States Army.

After he served his country in the United States Army, he was married to Lisa Mosay. He then became a partner in ownership of the G & B Packing Company in Minneapolis, Minn. He later moved to the Round Lake Community, where he enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing and spending time with his family and friends.

Gerald leaves to celebrate his memory, life companion, Sharon Williams; children, Jamie Williams, Jeremy (Amy) Williams, Jennifer Williams, George Mosay and Vanessa Mosay; grandchildren, Anthony, Alexis, Shiara, Shayna, Adren, Aneala, Nevaeh and Leilanii; father, Gerald Teddy Jackson; brothers, Fabian, Faron, Wolfgang and Gerald “Tiny” Jackson; sisters, Geraldine and Francine Jackson.

Gerald wass preceded in death by his daughter, Nicole Mechele Mosay; and mother, Elsie Jackson.

Services for Gerald were held at the Round Lake Community Center on Monday, Dec. 21, at 1 p.m. Visitation was at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at the Round Lake Community Center and continued until the time of service.

Gerald was laid to rest next to his daughter at the Johnstown Township Cemetery. He was honored by casket bearers Travis Lowe, Carlos Mosay, Josh Richardson, Jess Rogers, Scott Lowe, Devin Mustache, Jay Rogers, George Thayer, Lloyd Fowler and Joe Oustigoff. Honorary casket bearers were Jerald Lowe, Mike Williams, Matt Cole and Andrew Ladd.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home - Park Funeral Home of Centuria were entrusted with arrangements.

Myron Dahl, 93, died Dec. 18, 2009, at the Burnett Medical Center.

He was born May 22, 1916, to Alice (Hegge) and Charles Dahl in Wood River Township. Due to the death of his mother when he was l3 months old, he lived and grew up with his aunt and uncle Annie and Gust Magnison in Anderson Township.

He attended Grettum School, where he completed the eighth grade. Later he completed the requirements for a G.E.D. He married Irene Dahl Aug. 16, 1941. They lived in Anderson and Wood River townships, where they operated a dairy farm. In 1977, they sold their herd of Holsteins and in 1980 moved to Siren. In 1995, they moved to their final home in Grantsburg.

He was active in the community serving on both the Grettum and Grantsburg school boards for more than 20 years. He served as treasurer of Anderson Township and as vice president of the St. Olaf Cemetery Association Board. He served on the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service Board many years. Also, he was on the Branstad Creamery board many years and was instrumental in the formation of the Burnett Dairy Co-op. He received the Farmer of the Year award for Burnett County in 1960.

He helped to build Bethany Lutheran Church where he was baptized as an adult; he served on the council several terms. In recent years, he volunteered at the local food shelf.

He is survived by his children, Dee (Bob) Rosenbrook of Pennock, Minn., Sue (Curt) Fallstrom of Siren and Steve (Linda) Dahl of Grantsburg; sister Myrtle Wagner, three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife on Feb. 4, 2003; granddaughter, Brenda Kae Fallstom on Dec. 16, 1986; and brothers and sisters, Mamie Swanberg, Chester Dahl, Ella Miller, Bennie Dahl, Ernest Dahl, Tensie Erickson, Irene Benson, and twin brother, Marvin Dahl.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 28, at Bethany Lutheran Church, Grantsburg. Interment will be held at a later date at St. Olaf Cemetery.

The Edling-Taylor Funeral Home, Grantsburg, was entrusted with arrangements.

In Memory of

Marilyn Salmon

Always thinking of you Mother. There’s such a void in our lives since you left us one year ago.

Life will never be the same without you.

One day we will be together.

Always loving you forever Missing you, always will.

“Love you lots”

502361 18Lp

John Layton Webb

OBITUARIES

Carla Fehlen and family Brad Salmon and family David Salmon and family

Douglas A. McKee Douglas A. McKee, 66, a resident of St. Paul, Minn., died on Dec. 16, 2009, at Regions Hospital.

Douglas was born on Dec. 4, 1943, in St. Paul, Minn., to Lyle and Doris McKee. Douglas was employed as a custodian at St. Catherine University for over 20 years. He was a life member of the Eagle’s Club in Ossineke, Mich. He enjoyed bowling, and was an avid Twins and Vikings fan.

Douglas was preceded in death by his father Lyle in November 1990; and mother, Doris, on Dec. 4, 2009.

Douglas is survived by his brother, Dennis (Sandra) McKee; aunt, Shirley Olson; nieces, Jenny McKee and Kelly McKee; nephew, Kyle McKee; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009 at Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes with Pastor Tom Cook officiating. Interment followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Webster. Casket bearers were Butch Sahr, Mike Scharerff, Duane Murphy, Harvey Nelson, Wayne Olson and Jim Boyes.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

Richard (Dick) Emil Bruss

502163 7-8a-e 18-19L

Richard (Dick) Emil Bruss, 77, a resident of St. Croix Falls, died Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009.

Richard was born to Leslie and Tressa Bruss on May 31, 1932, in Webster. He was a graduate of Webster High School. He married Beverly LaVaque on May 28, 1955. To this union there were three children born.

Dick worked as a mechanic for several years, however, the bulk of his working life was spent as a block machine operator at Webster Concrete where he worked from 1954 until his retirement. Dick was always a farmer at heart and was always a part of the family farm that he grew up on. This passion was clearly evident in the beautiful flower and vegetable gardens that he kept.

Dick was also an avid sportsman and enjoyed hunting throughout his life. He truly enjoyed the whitetail rifle season.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Beverly; and his brothers, Charles and James.

Dick is survived by his daughter, Kathleen Bruss; sons, Brian Bruss and Kevin (Amy) Bruss; nephews, Mick (Kathy) Bruss, Eddy (Bonnie) Bruss and Terry Bruss; nieces, Judy (Ted) Biver, Wanda (John) Culver, Cindy (Ron) Yourchuck; along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, other relatives and many friends.

A family service was held at the funeral home.

The Swedberg-Taylor Family Funeral Homes, Webster, was entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 19

OBITUARIES Gladys Stella Olson

Boyd Issac Duncan

Rodney D. Leisch

Gladys Stella Olson, 83, a resident of Milltown, died Dec. 15, 2009, at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Gladys Jensen was born Jan. 30, 1926, in Eureka, to Peter and Gena (Holm) Jensen. She attended the Pleasant Valley and Trap Rock Schools through the ninth grade and then finished her education at the Milltown High School.

On Sept. 1, 1940, at the age of 14, Gladys was baptized, confirmed and became a lifelong member of the North Valley Lutheran Church.

She was married to Alden Olson on Dec. 18, 1949, in Hudson. Throughout Gladys’ life, she had different occupations. She worked as housekeeper for the Thatcher family in St. Paul, Minn., a plastic company in St. Paul, Brown & Bigelow Printing Co. in Minneapolis, a labor worker for the Armour Packing Plant, she waitressed for Parker House Restaurant and Wayne’s Cafe, worked at the Ben Franklin Store in Milltown, she farmed with her husband, was a homemaker and when she retired she volunteered at the St. Croix Regional Medical Center.

Gladys leaves to celebrate her memory, children; Stella (Jerry) Prokop of Centuria, Myron (Delight) Olson of Milltown, Duaine (LuAnn) Olson of Luck and Kirk (Heather) Olson of Dassel, Minn.; 20 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other loving family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Gena Jensen; husband, Alden Olson; brothers, William Holm and Miller Jensen, Thorvald Jensen, Manford Jenson, Dwight Jensen, Henry Jensen, Nels Jensen and infant brother, Freemon Jensen; and sister, Caroline Bentley.

Funeral service was held at the North Valley Lutheran Church west of Milltown on CTH G. on Tuesday, Dec. 22.

Gladys was laid to rest next to her husband at the Pleasant Valley Cemetery in rural Luck. Pallbearers were Gladys’ grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Boyd Issac Duncan, 82, died Dec. 11, 2009, at his home after a lengthy illness.

He was born on March 2, 1927, in Frederic, the son of Lyman and Lola Duncan.

Boyd married Eleanor Domagala on Feb. 16, 1952. Boyd was a “happy-golucky” Irishman, always loving and easygoing.

Boyd and Eleanor had two children, Twyla and Kevin.

Then came along the grandchildren, Maddie, Joey and Ellie. He loved spending time and playing with them.

Boyd worked at Pittsburg Glass in St. Paul, Minn., Stokley’s Canning Factory in Frederic, was a pin setter when the bowling alley was on Main Street, and retired from the Frederic Golf Course after 32 years. Boyd worked for his son, Kevin, approximately 25 years, making hearing aid parts during the winter months when he was laid off from the golf course. Boyd also worked part time for Kevin at A-1 Machine, after his retirement from the golf course.

Boyd hobby farmed for a number of years, raising Stokley beans, oats and rye. He was a handyman who could fix anything from farm equipment to minibikes.

He also was a good carpenter and did his own home remodeling. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling, gardening and playing pool.

Boyd started the pool league 50-plus years ago. He has been on many championship teams over the years.

Boyd’s team has won the league for the last 21 years straight.

Boyd had a few health issues starting 11 years ago with a massive heart attack and bypass surgery. Three years ago last June, Boyd broke his ankle, and with his diabetes, had a hard time getting the wound to heal.

Early August, Boyd’s health started failing, and he was diagnosed with liver cancer after being rushed to Region’s Medical Center on Aug. 26. He came home Sept.

1, and put up a good fight to the end.

Boyd is survived by his wife, Eleanor, of 57 years; his children, Twyla Rieck from Pennsylvania and Kevin (Joanie) Duncan from Grantsburg; three grandchildren, Madeline, Joseph and Ellie; sisters, Jean Fenton and JoAnn Schmidt of Frederic; brothers, Mack (Deloris) Duncan of Frederic and Dean Duncan of Mound, Minn.

Boyd was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Wesley Duncan.

A funeral Mass was held at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Frederic on Saturday, Dec. 19, with Father Dennis Mullen officiating and Father Patrick Ryan assisting. Music was provided by organist Mary Lou Daeffler;,soloist Cathy Tweet and Aaron French on trumpet. Honorary pallbearers were Boyd’s pool teammates: Gary Edling, Kent Boyer, Brad Domagala, Dave Romanowski, John Kurkowski and Warren Schmidt.

Ushers were Mike Duncan and James Duncan.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center of Milltown were entrusted with arrangements.

Rodney D. Leisch of Osceola died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at United Hospitals in St. Paul, Minn., at the age of 75.

Rodney was born June 4, 1934, at Osceola to Ruby and Louis Leisch Sr. He graduated from Osceola High School in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He retired from Andersen Windows with 42 years of service. On May 25, 1978, he married his wife, Judy. Rodney enjoyed golf, hunting, fishing, watching all sports and walking his dogs.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Sr. and Ruby.

He is survived by his wife, Judy; children, John (Julie) Leisch of Dresser, Brenda Ingram of Fla., Toni (Patrick) Wakeling of Hudson and Tracy (Rich) Conover of Hudson; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother, Sonny (Dorothy) Leisch of Lindstrom, Minn.; niece, Carrie (David Ryan) Leisch of Fridley, Minn.; nephew, Matt Leisch of Lindstrom, Minn.; many other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held Saturday, Dec. 19, at Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser with the Rev. Wayne Deloach and intern Lori Peper officiating. Music was provided by Myrna Westen and Mary Cotch. Interment was in the Pleasant Prairie Cemetery in Osceola.

The Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, was entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.grandstrandfh.com.

Dorothy M. DesJardins, 89, of Britton, S.D., died on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009.

Dorothy was born on Nov. 13, 1920, in Dewey Township (Bashaw Valley) Burnett County. She graduated from high school in Flint, Mich., and married Bernard DesJardins on Aug. 16, 1940. In 1947, they moved from Flint, Mich., to Shell Lake, and operated TipTown Resort. The family moved from Shell Lake to Frederic in 1956. She worked at the Carlson Hardware store for many years.

Dorothy was a long-time member of St. Dominic Catholic Church and the American Legion Auxiliary.

She is survived by her four children, Jay (Virginia) of Leesburg, Fla., Dawn Freeberg (Kay Mack) of Britton, S.D., Dale (Jeanne) of Frederic and Jeff (Marilyn) of Shoreview, Minn.; 10 grandchildren; six stepgrandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ben, in 1996; four brothers and one great-granddaughter.

Funeral services were held on Monday, Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Rowe Funeral Home in Frederic. Father Dennis Mullen officiated. Music was provided by organist Mary Lou Daeffler and soloist Kordi Kurkowski.

Pallbearers were Jeff, Jay, Dale, Jason, Mark and Brian DesJardins and Mike Freeberg. Interment was in St. Dominic’s Catholic Cemetery.

The Rowe Funeral Home of Frederic was entrusted with funeral arrangements.

IN MEMORY OF DAD 10 years ago you left this life, and found eternal peace.

We know you’re fine, our lives go on, our love will never cease.

By Daughter Cheryl

502460 18Lp

Russ Voss

In Memory

In Loving Memory Of

Grandma Mork Dec. 23, 1989 - Dec. 23, 2009

Twenty years have gone by, all so quickly. We all wanted you to get better and come home for that Christmas season, but God saw you getting tired and had another plan for you that Christmas. God called you and you went with him home - your heavenly home. What a present that must have been for you that Christmas - you were home and in God’s hands. That is the hope we all look forward to some day, all being together for another Christmas season in our heavenly home with God and Grandma. Grandma - always in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

Love, Your Family Written by Kara

Mary A. Webster, 53, town of Somerset, died Friday, Dec. 11.

Mary was born in St. Croix Falls, on April 10, 1956, to George and Myrtle (Isaac) Erickson. She was raised and graduated from high school in St. Croix Falls. Mary attended various classes at WITC over the years.

In her early adult years, Mary worked at Dayton’s, downtown St. Paul, Minn., 1976-1985, and West Publishing, 1985-1994, before working in various positions in Stillwater, Minn., and Somerset. She married Scott Olson in 1976 and divorced in 1992. She was married to David A. Webster in 1993.

Mary loved to travel; it put a twinkle in her eye to go with David thousands of miles in a trip at least once each year. She loved Lake Superior; Lancaster County, Pa.; fall leaves and the Rocky Mountains. Mary was a member of Christ Lutheran Church and was grateful for this caring church family.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; special aunts, Julia Temisch and Laura Germain; and other aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her husband, David; stepfather, Resser Adams, St. Croix Falls; great-aunt, Violet Isaac, Lindstrom, Minn.; cousin, Mary Anderson, Redwing, Minn., and special friends.

Funeral services were held Dec. 17, at Christ Lutheran Church, Somerset, with the Rev. Kathy Tulman officiating.

The Edling Funeral Home of St. Croix Falls was entrusted with arrangements.

502446 18L

Patricia E. Stage Jan. 11, 1932 - Dec. 26, 2008

Gordon D. Stage May 28, 1929 - Dec. 19, 2006

May the winds of love blow softly and whisper so you can hear. We will always love and miss you and wish that you were here. If roses grow in heaven, Lord pick a bunch for us. Place them in our mom & dad’s arms and tell them they’re from us. Tell them that we love and miss them, and when they turn to smile, place a kiss upon their cheeks and hold them for awhile. What would we give to clasp their hands, their loving face to see, to hear their voices and see their smile that meant so much to us. We’ll love you forever.

Your Children: Sue & Tom, Kathy & Al, Gary & Dot, Kelly & Robs, Jeff & Joni, Rick & Darlene, Grandchildren & Great-Grandchildren

502456 7dp 18Lp

Dorothy M. DesJardins

Mary A. Webster

PAGE 20 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

CHURCH NEWS

Keep Christmas traditions alive after the holidays Question: Once Christmas Day has arrived and the presents have been opened, my children always seem to be disappointed. They're not ungrateful or bratty, but I'm curious if you have any suggestions on how to beat the "post-holiday blues"?

Dr. Dobson: For children and many adults, anticipation is all too often greater than realization. Our kids were no different. The happy days of Christmas came and went so quickly that my wife and I always sought a way to hold on to the pleasure a while longer. We developed a custom of saving our Christmas cards that came from friends and loved ones far and wide, and after New Year's Day, we'd put them on a tray near the dinner table. Every night we selected four cards, one for each family member, and we read them and the enclosed letters. We then prayed for those families around our table. This tradition can take months to complete, depending on the number of cards received. With the busy days of Christmas behind us, we could better enjoy the beauty of the cards, and absorb the meaningful verses and personal notes.

The Christmas traditions that we developed through the years were not unique to the Dobson household. But they were extremely meaningful to each member of our family. These activities served to emphasize the two vitally important themes that embody the Christmas spirit: celebration of Jesus' birth and life, and celebration of love for one another and for the entire human family.

••• QUESTION: I am 19 years old, and I have struggled with a bad self-concept all my life. It seems that everyone I know has more to offer than I do. I envy the girls who are better looking, more athletic, or smarter than I am. I just don't measure up to my own expectations. How can I deal with my own insecurities?

DR. DOBSON: Someone said, "Comparison is the root of all inferiority." It is true. When you look at another person's strengths and compare them to your own weaknesses, there is no way to come out feeling good about yourself. That is what you are doing when you pit yourself against the "best and brightest" around you.

This destructive game begins in elementary school when we begin to evaluate ourselves critically. Even at that young age, our self-image is shaped by how we stack up against our peers. It's not how tall we are that matters – it's who is tallest. It's not how fast we can run -- it's who runs fastest. It's not how smart we are – it's who is smartest. It's not how pretty or handsome we are – it's who is most gorgeous.

Thus begins a pattern of self-doubt that often becomes all-consuming during adolescence. For some people it continues well into adult life. This is why

Dr. James

Dobson Focus on the Family

millions of women buy fashion magazines and then envy the beauty of the models. It's why we watch Miss America contests and why some men read about successful and powerful businessmen. When we do that, we're weighing ourselves against the most admired assets of others. It is an exercise that brings us nothing but pain, and yet we continue to engage in it.

It appears that you are caught up in this destructive pattern. Perhaps a wise counselor or pastor can help you see that you are a worthy human being exactly the way you are and that God has designed you for a specific purpose. Mental and spiritual health begin with an acceptance of life as it is and a willingness to make the most of what has been given. When that is achieved, comparison with others is no longer an important issue.

••• Dr. Dobson is founder and chairman emeritus of the nonprofit organization Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80995 (www.focusonthefamily.org).

Questions and answers are excerpted from "Complete Marriage and Family Home Reference Guide" and "Bringing Up Boys," both published by Tyndale House. COPYRIGHT 2009 JAMES DOBSON INC. DISTRIBUTED BY UNIVERSAL UCLICK, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, Mo. 64106; (816) 581-7500

Brought to you by:

Zion Lutheran Church Bone Lake

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

“Your Electric Servant” Serving Polk & Burnett Counties “Use Energy Wisely”

WEBSTER CASHCO BUILDING SUPPLIES Complete Lumber & Building Supplies

CARLSON-ROWE FUNERAL HOME

Phone 715-866-4238 Hwy. 35 N. Webster, Wis. Tom & Becky O’Brien, Owners

MEDICINE SHOPPE

HOPKINS SAND & GRAVEL, INC.

Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4475 110 Oak Street Frederic, Wis. 715-327-4208 Monday - Friday 8:30 - 5 Not Open On Saturday Duane Lindh

HAULING

• Gravel • Sand • Rock • Top Soil • Trackhoe 715-472-2717 Mobile 715-491-1861 1065 290th Ave. Frederic, Wis.

LUCK VAN METER’S MEATS

Government Inspected Slaughtering and Processing, Sausage making • Ham and Bacon Cured and Smoked Sides and Quarters of Beef and Pork Available Old-fashioned Fresh Meat Counter Tim Van Meter and Ross Anderson, Owners Luck, WI 54853 Plant 715-472-2141

Sand, Gravel, Ready-Mix, Concrete, Black Dirt, Dozer Work, Landscaping & Septic Tanks Installed

ALPHA

CUSHING

BASS LAKE LUMBER

CUSHING COOPERATIVE SOCIETY

• Complete Line of Building Supplies & Lumber • Cabot’s Stains Grantsburg, Wis. 715-488-2471 or 715-327-8766

BURNETT DAIRY CO-OP

1988 World Champion Cheesemaker Earl Wilson, Cheese Plant Mgr. Clif Gipp, Ag. Supply Mgr. for Feed, Propane & Fertilizer Alpha, Wis. 715-689-2468 • 715-689-2467

Feed Mill - Grain Dept.

Cushing, Wis. 715-648-5215

WILD RIVER FLAGS

By Willits Jerry & Pat Willits, Owners We sell flags, banners, wind socks, pennants, flag poles & accessories.

Installations Available 2815 285th Ave. • Sterling Township 715-488-2729

Hwy. 35 North Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-4157 M.P.R.S. #03059

SWEDBERG-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME Webster, Wis. Phone 715-866-7131

BRUCE’S AUTO REPAIR & TOWING

Churches 5/09

FREDERIC

NORTHWESTERN WISCONSIN ELECTRIC CO.

Wrecker - Flatbed Air Conditioning & Computerized Car Service - Cold Weather Starts

Webster, Wis. 715-866-4100 Days • 715-866-8364 Eves.

SIREN OLSEN & SON

Your Full-Service Drugstore Siren, Wis. Phone 715-349-2221

Any area business wishing to help sponsor the church listings should contact the Leader at 715-327-4236.

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 21

Church Directory ADVENTIST

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST - FREDERIC

609 Benson Road. Pastor Curtis Denney Sat. Worship 11 a.m.; Sabbath Schl. 9:30 a.m.

ALLIANCE

ALLIANCE

ALLIANCE CHURCH OF THE VALLEY Senior Pastor Bob Morton 1259 Hwy. 35 S., St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship: 8:30, 9:45 & 11 a.m.

MILLTOWN LUTHERAN

METHODIST

NEW HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH

CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST - GRANTSBURG

Emory Johnson, Interim Pastor at Siren High School Auditorium Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.

NORTH VALLEY LUTHERAN

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

Pastor Maggie Isaacson, 715-825-3559 3 mi. W. of Milltown on “G” Sun. Wor. - 9:15 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

WORD OF LIFE CHURCH

OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN, (LCMS) WEBSTER

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP

Meeting in homes. Elders: Cliff Bjork, Jon Zens, 483-1357 and 755-3048 Sun. Fellowship - 10 a.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

LUTHERAN

LUTHERAN

BALSAM LUTHERAN CHURCH

1115 Mains Crossing, 1/2 Mile South Hwy. 8 On 110th St.; Pastor Matt Faarem Sun. Worship 9 a.m.; Sun. School 10:15 a.m.

Wed. Bible Study 8:30 a.m.; Wed. LOGOS 3:20 p.m.

Rev. Jody Walter, Interim, Phone 327-8608; Church Phone 866-7191 Sun. Wors. - 9:15 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

PEACE LUTHERAN - DRESSER (ELCA)

2355 Clark Road, Dresser, WI, 715-755-2515 Web site: plcdresser.org Pastor Wayne Deloach, Intern Lori Peper Sun. Wor. 8:30 & 11 a.m., Sun. Schl. 9:35 a.m.

PILGRIM LUTHERAN - FREDERIC (ELCA)

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.

Pastor Catherine Burnette 507 Wisconsin Ave. N., 715-327-8012 Sunday Schl. 9 a.m.; Sunday Wor. - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st & 2nd Sundays www.pilgrimlutheranfrederic.org

BETHANY LUTHERAN - BRANSTAD

REDEEMER EV. LUTHERAN

BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR LUTHERAN (WELS)

Pastor Jay Ticknor, 715-463-5746 3 miles So. of Grantsburg on Hwy. 87 Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

BETHANY LUTHERAN - SIREN

Hwy. 35, 1/2 blk. N. Main St. Pastor John Clasen; Pastoral Serv. 349-5280 Sun. Schl. 8:15 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.

BETHESDA LUTHERAN - DRESSER (LCMC) www.bethesdalutheran.ws

Pastor Mark Richardson, 715-755-2562 Pastor Mike Winick 1947 110th Ave., Dresser Praise Serv. 8:15 a.m.; Heart Song Serv., Adult Ed & Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Trad. Serv. 10:45 a.m.

(Wisconsin Synod) Pastor Gene DeVries 200 N. Adams St., St. Croix Falls Sun. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 8:30 a.m.

ST. JOHN’S EV. LUTHERAN (Wis. Synod) 350 Michigan Ave., Centuria Sun. Wor. - 10:45 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.

FAITH LUTHERAN - BALSAM LAKE

faithlutheran@lakeland.ws Pastor Diane Norstad 715-485-3800; CTH I & Mill Street Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:40 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st & last Sundays

FAITH LUTHERAN - GRANTSBURG

Pastor Victor St. George, 715-463-5388 Worship 9:30 a.m.; Sun. School 10:45 a.m.

FIRST EVAN. LUTHERAN

5561 Chestnut St., Taylors Falls, MN 651-465-5265 Traditional Wor. 8:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. & Youth 9:45 a.m.; Adult Learning 10 a.m.; Contemp. Wor. 11 a.m.

DANBURY UNITED METHODIST

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

TRINITY LUTHERAN - ELCA

TRINITY LUTHERAN LCMS, DANBURY

Pastors Mike & Linda Rozumalski 1 mi. west of Luck on N, 2478 170th St., Luck Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Fellowship 9:45 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - ELCA

LAKEVIEW UNITED - HERTEL

Pastor Jack Starr Wor. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - during worship hour

LEWIS MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST Tom Cook, Pastor Worship 8:45 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

McKINLEY UNITED METHODIST

Pastor Annie Tricker Sun. Wor. 11 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

Potluck dinner 1st Sunday

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST

oumc@centurytel.net 306 River Street, Osceola, 715-755-2275 Pastor Mark Gilbert Adult Class - 8:30 a.m.; Sunday Schl. 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship - 10 a.m.; Holy Communion 1st Sunday Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship Service - 10 a.m.

Sun. School is at 9 a.m., Nursery available Pastor Arveda “Freddie” Kirk, 327-4436 Early Wor. 8:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 10 a.m.

Souper service Wed. 5:15 p.m.

SIREN UNITED METHODIST

Tom Cook, Pastor Sunday School 9 a.m.

Worship - 10:15 a.m. (Nursery available)

TAYLORS FALLS UNITED METHODIST

290 W. Government Street, 715-294-4436 Reverend Dr. Rolland Robinson Sunday Service - 10 a.m. with nursery Sunday School - Sept. - May at 10 a.m.

Rev. Mike Weaver Sunday Worship - 8:15 a.m.

COVENANT

CALVARY COVENANT - ALPHA

Pastor Scott Sagel, 715-689-2541 Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Wor. 10:30 p.m.; Elevator provided, welcome

SIREN COVENANT

Pastor Dave Guertin 7686 Lofty Pines Drive, Siren, 715-349-5601 Worship 10 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

UNITED COVENANT - CLEAR LAKE

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

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl, 648-5323 or 648-5324 Sun. Wor. 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:15 a.m.

Rev. Rexford D. Brandt 447 180th St., Osceola, 715-294-2936 Sun. Wor. 8 & 10:30 a.m.; Sun Schl. 9:15 a.m.

Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month

FRISTAD LUTHERAN - CENTURIA

YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN

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.

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

ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE (AALC)

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.

GRACE LUTHERAN - WEST SWEDEN

ZION LUTHERAN - EAST FARMINGTON (WELS )

FIRST LUTHERAN - CUSHING

ELCA - 501 Hwy. 35, 646-2357 Mel Rau, Pastor Sun. Wor. & Holy Communion - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:40 a.m.

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN - ELCA

1/2 mi. W. of Hwy. 35 on U, 715-866-8281, Pastors Douglas Olson, Roger Kampstra & Ray Reinholzen Services begin at 9:30 a.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt - 715-653-2630 5 mi. E. of Frederic on W, 2 mi. south on I; Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Communion - 1st Sunday

CHURCH OF ST. JOSEPH

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.

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

Pastor Martin Weigand - 715-294-3489 Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Adult Bible Class 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN - FREDERIC

Pastor Tim Faust Worship - 11 a.m.; Sun. School - 10 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

(Missouri Synod) Pastor Jody R. Walter, 327-8608 Sun. Schl. - 8:45 a.m.; Service - 10:45 a.m.

Communion - 1st & 3rd Sun.

LAKESIDE COMMUNITY LUTH. - ELCA

CTH H, 1/2 mi. N. of CTH A & H on H Church Off. 715-635-7791 Roger Pittman, Pastor Sun. Schl. 9 a.m.; Worship Serv. 8 &10 a.m.; Sat. 7 p.m.; Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

LAKETOWN LUTHERAN - CUSHING

Pastor Dorothy Sandahl Sun. Wor. 10:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 10:30 a.m.

LUCK LUTHERAN

510 Foster Ave. E. Office 715-472-2605; Home 715-472-8424 Worship Service 10:30 a.m.

ZION LUTHERAN - MARKVILLE

Pastor David Almlie, 715-327-8384, 715-327-8090 Fellowship - 10:30 a.m., Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Worship 11 a.m.,Communion - 1st & 2nd Sundays

PRESBYTERIAN

PRESBYTERIAN

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

Rev. Bruce Brooks - 715-483-3550 719 Nevada St. , (between Simonson & Tower Roads) , St. Croix Falls Worship - 10 a.m. (Nursery provided) Sun. Schl. - Child.- 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - Adults - 8:45 a.m.; Communion 1st Sunday

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

Holytrinity@wisconsinumc.org 1606 165th Ave., CTH I, Centuria Paul Foulke, Pastor, 715-485-3363 Sun. Wor. - 9 a.m.

COVENANT

WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN

Pastor Father Daniel Bodin, 651-465-7345 25293 Redwing Ave., Shafer, MN Sunday 9 a.m.

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST

TRINITY LUTHERAN - FALUN

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.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER

Cindy Glocke, Pastor, 715-866-8646 Sunday Worship - 10:30 a.m.

WOLF CREEK UNITED METHODIST

TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN OSCEOLA

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.

GRACE UNITED - WEBSTER

Rev. Jody Walter, Interim Home 715-327-8608; Church 715-866-7191 Sunday Worship Service - 7:45 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays Hwy. 70 East, 689-2271, Pastor: Carl Heidel Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 10:15 a.m.

Communion -Every Sunday

ST. ANNE PARISH

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

ST. LUKE UNITED - FREDERIC

CHRIST LUTHERAN

Pastor Gary Rokenbrodt - 715-653-2630 Communion 1st Sunday Worship 9 a.m.; Sunday School 9 a.m.

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Worship - 9 a.m.; Sun. School - 10:30 a.m.

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN (Missouri Synod)

1614 CTH, North Luck Office Ph.472-2605; Dial-A-Devotion 472-2345 Sun. Worship - 9 a.m.

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

CLAM FALLS LUTHERAN (AALC)

Pastor Carolyn Saunders, 715-463-2624 Sunday School - 11 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST

BONE LAKE LUTHERAN bllc@lakeland.ws

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.

ATLAS UNITED METHODIST

ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN - LUCK

140 Madison St. South, St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark K. Schoen Sun. Service - 9 a.m.; Sun.School - 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Mary Ann Bowman, 5 mi. E. of Luck on Hwy. 48, 1/2 mi. S. on I; 472-8153, Office/Kit. - 472-2535 Sun. Schl. & Adult Bible Study 9 a.m.; Fellowship 10 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sundays

METHODIST

113 W. Main St.. W., Phone 715-825-2453 Pastor Danny G. Wheeler 9 a.m. Prayer & Praise; 9:30 a.m. Sun. Schl.; 10:40 a.m. Worship Serv.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES

404 Wis. Ave., Amery, 715-268-7717 Father John Drummy, Pastor Sat. Mass 4 p.m., Sun. Mass 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sacrament of Reconciliation Sat., 3:30 p.m. or by appt.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

Rev. Thomas E. Thompson, 715-294-2243 255 E. 10th Ave., Osceola Masses: Sun. 10:30 a.m., Tues. 5 p.m.

Thurs. at 10 a.m. at Osc. Nursing Home ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY

CENTURIA ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Don Wiltshire, 715-640-6400 Centuria - Phone 715-646-2172 Sunday Service: 10 a.m.

OSCEOLA COMMUNITY CHURCH

Pastor Larry Mederich, 715-294-4332 www.occconnect.org Mtg. @ St. Croix Art Barn; Sun. Serv. - 9 a.m.

Nursery and children church

SIREN ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Pastor Andrew Bollant Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Morn. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Supervised Nursery; Wed. Evening - Worship Serv. 6:30 p.m.

EVANGELICAL

EVANGELICAL

TRADE RIVER EVAN. FREE

Pastor Dale VanDeusen, 715-488-2296 or 715-488-2653 20296 Hwy. 87, Grantsburg Morn. Wor. - 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. - 10:45 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services

716 S. Robert St., Grantsburg, 715-463-5699 Sr. Pastor Brad Moore David Ahlquist, Assoc. Pastor Sun. Wor. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

LIVING HOPE CHURCH

Pastor Doug McConnell Youth Pastor Chris Radtke At Grantsburg High School, 715-463-5794 Sun. Serv. 9:30 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 11 a.m.

TRADE LAKE BAPTIST

Pastor Andy McDaniel, 715-327-8402 Sun. Schl. - 9:15 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 10:15 a.m.; Wed. 6:30 p.m. Bible Study; Nursery provided.; www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST

CHURCH OF CHRIST CHURCH OF CHRIST - WEBSTER

Minister Garret Derouin, 866-7157 Musky & Birch St., Avail. in office 9 a.m. noon, Tues.-Fri.; Sun. Bible Study 9:30 a.m.

Worship 10:30 a.m.

WESLEYAN

WESLEYAN WOODLAND WESLEYAN

Dairyland - Rev. Andrea Wittwer 715-244-3649 Sunday School - 10 a.m.; Worship - 11 a.m.

FULL GOSPEL

FULL GOSPEL WOOD RIVER CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP Pastor Dan Slaikeu 4 mi. SE of Grantsburg on Williams Rd. Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Wor. 10:30 a.m.

HOPE FELLOWSHIP OF SOMERSET

231 Bluff Drive, 715-247-2435 Services are Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Call Pastor Darryl Olson at 715-755-3133 for information and directions

CHRISTIAN CENTER

CHRISTIAN CENTER EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER

1751 100th Ave., Dresser Sun. School 9:30 a.m.; Morn. Wor. 10:30 a.m.

Evening Services Sun. 6 p.m.; Wed. 7 p.m.

ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY (EFCA)

CHRISTIAN ORTHODOX HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX

FREDERIC EVAN. FREE CHURCH

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN

Pastor Bruce Tanner, 715-268-2176 942 U.S. Hwy. 8, Amery Sun. Schl. 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday Bible study 7 p.m.

Pastor Greg Lund, 715-327-8767 700 Churchwood Lane; 505 Old CTH W Sun. Schl. - 9 a.m.; Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided for all services BAPTIST

BAPTIST

EAST BALSAM BAPTIST - BALSAM LK. Pastor David Sollitt 715-857-5411 or 715-268-2651 Wor. Serv. - 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl.-10:15 a.m.

EUREKA BAPTIST

2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls Pastor Willis Christenson, 715-483-9464 Sun. Schl. - 10 a.m.; Wor. Serv. - 11 a.m.

FAITH FELLOWSHIP

Hwy. 35 and CTH N., Luck Bill McEachern Pastor, 715-485-3973 Sun. Bible study - 9 a.m.; Sun. Wor. - 10 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - AMERY

131 Broadway St., 715-268-2223; www.fbcamery.org Pastor Charlie Butt, Lead Pastor Sunday Worship: 9 - 10:15 a.m. & 10:30 11:45 a.m.; Childrens church ages 3-4 Sun. Schl. for Pre-K to 5th; Sun. Schl. for Jr./Sr. high meet in teen center Nursery available

FIRST BAPTIST - FALUN

Pastor Kevin Miller Associate Pastor Roger Inouye Sunday School - (all ages) - 9:30 a.m.

Church Serv. - 10:45 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - MILLTOWN

Pastor Marlon Mielke, 715-825-3186 Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Wor. 11 a.m., 7 p.m.

FIRST BAPTIST - TAYLORS FALLS, MN

Located across from elemen. school on West St., Pastor, Dr. Kevin Schumann; 651-465-7171 Sun. Morn. - Sun. Schl. for all ages - 9 a.m.

Morn. Worship - 10:15 a.m.; Nursery provided.

Pastor Father Michael J. Tupa CTHs A & H - 715-866-7321 Crescent Lake Voyager Village area.

Mass Sun. 8:15 a.m., Thurs. 11:30 a.m.

Reconciliation as per bulletin and by appt.

FIRST BAPTIST - WEBSTER

ST. DOMINIC - FREDERIC & IMMACULATE CONCEPTION - GRANTSBURG CATHOLIC MASS SCHED.

GRACE CHURCH OF OSCEOLA

Pastor: Rev. Dennis M. Mullen, 715-327-8119 St. Dominic: Sat. 4:30 p.m.; Sun. 10:30 a.m.

Immaculate Conception: Sun. 8:30 a.m.

Call the office for daily & holy day Mass times

GRACE BAPTIST - GRANTSBURG

Church Phone 715-866-4111; Rev. Merrill Olson - Pastor Sun. Schl. - 9:30 a.m.; Wor. - 10:45 a.m (Nursery Provided)

“The Cure for the Common Church” 722 Seminole Ave., Osceola Pastor Dr. Kent Haralson; 715-294-4222 or 715-755-3454; info@gracechurchosceola.com Sun.: Praise & Worship Serv. 9 am., Adult Bible Study 10:45 a.m., Children’s Sun. Schl. 10:45 a.m.

523 1st St., Clayton, 715-948-2493 Fr. Christopher Wojcik, Pastor Sat. Vespers - 5 p.m.; Sun. Liturgy - 9:30 a.m.

Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church, 28005 Old Towne Rd., Chisago Lakes, MN Fr. Robert McMeekin, pastor hcomm.org Sunday Worship Service 9:30 a.m.

NAZARENE

NAZARENE

CALVARY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 510 S. Vincent, St. Croix Falls Pastor Lori Ward, 715-483-3696 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:45 a.m. & Wed. 6:30 p.m.

FAITH COMMUNITY

7535 Peet St., Danbury, 715-656-4010 Reverend R.A. Luebke Adult Bible Service 9 a.m.; Services: Sun. 10 a.m.; Sunday School during church service.

NONDENOMINATIONAL

NONDENOMINATIONAL

CENTERPOINT CHURCH “Come as you are”

Pastor Dick Enerson, www.centerpointstcroix.com 715-294-1833, Meeting at SCF High Schl. Main entrance 740 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls Sunday Worship 10 - 11:15 a.m.

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY - AMERY Pastor Timothy Barnes Sat. 7 p.m. prayer; Sun. Worship 10 a.m.; Children’s Church to 6th Grade

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Meets at Dresser Elem. School, Dresser Pastor Michael Brand, 715-417-2468 Adult Class 9 a.m.; Sun. Schl. 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service 9:45 a.m.; Nursery available

NEW WINE CHURCH - CENTURIA 309 5th Street, 715-338-2751 Pastors Randy and Pam Stone Sunday 10 a.m.; Wednesday 7 p.m.

NORTHERN PINES FRIENDS WORSHIP GROUP 715-733-0481 or 715-733-0480 for time of meeting.

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN

1289 160th St. (Hwy. 65), St. Croix Falls 715-483-5378 Pastors Dan and Claudia Denissen Asst. Pastor Ken Janes Sun. School 9 a.m.; Worship 10 a.m.

church directory

ADVENTIST

PAGE 22 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

R se Garden

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MANUFACTURED HOMES

REPOS! 3 Bedroom 2 Bath 16x80’s & Doublewides – Some in area parks ready to move in to, others remodeled and ready for delivery to your site. Town & Country Housing, Bus Hwy 53 between Eau Claire & Chippewa Falls, (715) 834-1279 (CNOW)

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING WORKS! Make one call and place your 25 word classified ad into 176 newspapers in Wisconsin. Call this newspaper or 800-227-7636.

PUBLIC NOTICES

HERNIA REPAIR? DID YOU RECEIVE A COMPOSIX KUGEL MESH PATCH BETWEEN January 2001 AND Present? If the Kugel patch was removed due to complications of bowel perforation, abdominal wall tears, puncture of abdominal organs or intestinal fistulae, you may be entitled to compensation.

Attorney Charles Johnson 1800-536-6727 (CNOW)

HELP WANTED TRUCK DRIVER

Drivers - Class A CDL exp Inexp/CDL Permit Training available Home weekly Call today for more info H.O.Wolding Transportation WI based 800-950-0054

HOMES FOR SALE

FORECLOSED ONLINE HOME AUCTION 800+ Homes / Bids Open 1/11.

Open House: 1/3, 1/9 & 10.

View Full Listings & Details www.Auction.com (CNOW)

AUTOMOBILE DONATION

DONATE VEHICLE Receive $1,000 grocery coupon.

Noah’s Arc Support NO KILL Shelters, Research To Advance Veterinary Treatments.

Free Towing, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted 1866-912-GIVE. (CNOW)

Dr. Daniel C. Satterlund

Phone (715) 472-2121

715-866-4700

www.stcroixeye.com

Mon.-Fri. • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home Webster, Wisconsin

“Distinctive Funeral Service”

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Subscribe online!

WANT ADS

RED BIRD MUSIC STORE GIFT CERTIFICATES make great Christmas presents!

113 S. Washington Street, St. Croix Falls, www.redbirdmusicstore.com 715-483-2493. 17-18Lp

Robert L. Nelson New York Life Insurance Company Box 313 Luck, Wis. 54853 Phone

715-472-2502

NEW YORK LIFE

Daily: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

AUSTIN LAKE GREENHOUSE & FLOWER SHOP • WEDDING BOUQUETS • FUNERAL DESIGNS • CUT FLOWERS • GIFTS • BALLOONS • BEDDING PLANTS • POTTED PLANTS • TUXEDO RENTAL BY SAVVI • ANTLER KING PRODUCTS Hwy. 35 & “FF,” Webster Flowers Phoned Anywhere

Call 715-866-7261

See us for all your printing needs.

502534 18L

Rated PG-13, 130 Minutes.

Fri., Christmas Day: 3:00, 5:40 & 8:15 p.m.; Sat.-Thurs.: 1:00, 3:25, 6:00 & 8:30 p.m.

AVATAR

INTER-COUNTY COOPERATIVE PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION

ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS THE SQUEAKQUEL Rated PG, 88 Minutes.

Fri., Christmas Day: 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.; Sat.-Thurs.: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 & 9:00 p.m.

All shows and show times before 6 p.m. $5.00.

Shows and show times subject to change.

Visit us on our Web site: www.timberstheatres.com

• Shell Lake, 715-468-2314 • St. Croix Falls 715-483-9008

Visit The Leader’s Web Site:

www.the-leader.net

All Stadium/Digital 715-483-1471

2179 E. Hwy. 8 Between Tractor Supply and Wal-Mart www.evergreen-entertainment.com

SHOWS AND SHOW TIMES Dec. 25 - Dec. 31

SHOWS AND SHOW TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL SEATS $6.50 UNTIL 6 P.M.

(PG-13) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Daily: 1:30, 4:30, 7:10, 9:40

IT’S COMPLICATED

(R) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Daily: 1:25, 4:45, 7:10, 9:25

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS:

THE SQUEAKQUEL

(PG) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Daily: 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 7:00, 9:00

AVATAR

(PG-13) Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Daily: 12:50, 3:45, 6:45, 9:40

DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THE MORGANS? (PG-13) THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG (G) Daily: 1:05, 3:05, 5:05, 7:05, 9:05

Joel L. Morgan, FIC

715-472-8107 office 1-800-500-2936 toll-free 22854A N1-07

200700115 12/08

Music With THE

JUGGERNAUTS

NORTHWOODS BAR

30180 County Rd. H • Webb Lake, WI 54830

Join Us

New Year’s Eve Music by:

BIG BAMBOO Hors d’oeuvres, Party Favors & Midnight Champagne

NO COVER CHARGE

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SHERLOCK HOLMES

TWILIGHT SAGA:

201 Main St. S. Luck, WI 54853

6 p.m. - 3 a.m. - $25 LIFT TICKETS 10 p.m. - 3 a.m. - $15 LIFT TICKETS

9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

THE BLIND SIDE (PG-13)

Assistant Financial Associate

CHRISTMAS LATE-NIGHT SPECIAL

Rated PG-13, 162 Minutes.

Fri., Christmas Day: 4:30 & 7:45 p.m.; Sat.-Thurs.: 1:00, 4:30 & 7:45 p.m.

Cris A. Moore, FICF, FIC Senior Financial Consultant

IDAY $15 FR , ALL T NIGH KI/RIDE S NIGHT . - 3 a.m.

10 p.m

Rated R, 120 Minutes.

Fri., Christmas Day: 3:00, 5:30 & 8:00 p.m.; Sat.-Thurs.: 1:00, 3:30, 6:00 & 8:25 p.m.

Sorry no passes or reduced admission tickets Daily: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:15, 9:15

Let’s Thrive.®

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Season’s Greetings From All Of Us At Timbers Theatres!

SHERLOCK HOLMES

WE HAVE PARTS for tractors, combines, machinery, hay equipment and more.

Used, new, rebuilt, aftermarket. Downing Tractor Parts, Downing, Wis., www. asapagparts.com 877-5301010. 32Ltfc

Webster

AT THE LODGE 24226 1st Ave. No. Siren, WI Local Movie Line 715-349-8888 Timbers1@starwire.net SHOW TIMES FOR FRI., DEC. 25 THRU THURS., DEC. 31

IT’S COMPLICATED

• Commercial Printing • Office Supplies • Daily UPS Pickup • Fax & Copy Service

• Frederic, 715-327-4236 • Siren, 715-349-2560

Main Street

www.theleader.net

Phone 715-268-2004

Eye health exams, glaucoma checks, foreign body removal, full line of street wear, safety and sport wear, contact lenses

SEE US FOR ALL YOUR VISION CARE NEEDS. Exams, Glasses & Contacts, Foreign Body Removal, Treatment of Eye Disease

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

• Fresh Flowers & Plants • Gifts • Complete Weddings • Flowers • Tuxedo Rental • Invitations • Linen Rental • Spring Garden Center “The Professional Florist with the Personal Touch”

OPTOMETRIST 119 Arlington Drive Amery, Wis.

Hours: Tues., Thurs., Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

WEBSTER EYE ASSOCIATES

715-327-4281 1-800-676-4281

ST. CROIX FALLS

304 1st St. So., Luck, Wis.

715-463-2370

308 Wis. Ave. S Frederic, Wis.

Dr. T.L. Christopherson Cinema 8

Family Eye Clinic

GRANTSBURG EYE ASSOCIATES

GIFTS, FLORAL & GREENHOUSE

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ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy. All for $9,995. 1-888745-3358 Multi Vend, LLC

MISCELLANEOUS

Daily: 1:25, 4:45, 7:05, 9:25

NEW MOON (PG-13) Daily: 1:15, 7:15

INVICTUS (PG-13) Daily: 4:45, 9:45

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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Burnett Community Library

Follow the Leader

CHECK WEB SITE FOR SHOW TIMES: www.evergreen-entertainment.com

NOW YOU SEE HIM! NOW YOU DON’T!

(100s of pounds lost.)

We are very proud of you, Bear! ~Clam Falls Bar

502426 18L

DECEMBER 23, 2009 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - PAGE 23

Students of the Week

Makayla Arthurs has been chosen Frederic Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Debra Long. Makayla has a pleasant personality, is very cooperative in class, works well with peers and respects others. She is involved in basketball, volleyball and dance team. Makayla enjoys dancing, singing and hanging with friends. Her future plans are to attend college. Makayla’s mom inspires her.

Terri McKinney has been chosen Frederic High School’s student of the week. She is a senior and the daughter of David and Sherry McKinney. Terri is very positive, participates in school activities, is very cooperative and has a pleasant personality. She is involved in 4-H, FFA, yearbook and softball.

Terri enjoys four-wheeling, bear hunting and anything outdoors.

Her future plans are to attend UW-Barron County and UW-River Falls for elementary ed.

Sarah Coppenbarger has been chosen Grantsburg Middle School’s student of the week. She is in seventh grade and the daughter of Katie and Curt Coppenbarger. Sarah has been a great help and creative force with student council.She is very persistent and works diligently with her academics. Sarah’s favorite class is language arts. She is interested in debating and is also involved in the after-school history club.

Haley Dikkers has been chosen Luck Middle School’s student of the week. She is in eighth grade and the daughter of Martin and Kathryn Dikkers. Haley is an easygoing student who is very committed to her education. Her greatest asset to success is her inquisitive mind and she is not afraid to ask why. She had a main role in “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at St. Croix Festival Theatre. Haley enjoys knitting, singing, drawing, dancing, acting and writing.

Logan Hacker has been chosen Luck High School’s student of the week. He is a junior and the son of Brian and Sheri Hacker. Logan is very conscientious about his school work.

He works hard, but also has a good sense of humor. Logan is involved in FFA, football, basketball, baseball and bowling. He enjoys bow hunting, ice fishing, watching football on Sundays and playing softball. Logan’s plans are to attend a college for mathematical education. He most admires his Grandpa Verle.

Proudly Supporting Our Students Stop In or Call Us Today

Electricity • Propane 1-800-421-0283

2547 State Road 35, Luck, Wis. (in the Evergreen Plaza)

715-472-4088 www.sterlingbank.ws

www.polkburnett.com

Supporting our area students and their accomplishments.

INTER-COUNTY

Serving Northwest Wisconsin

Chris Olson has been chosen Grantsburg High School’s student of the week. He is a senior and the son of Chris and Tasha Olson.

Chris is a hardworking, self-motivated student who displays excellent thinking and problem solving while doing quality work. He gets along with all students and treats everyone with respect. Chris is involved in hockey. He enjoys fishing and sports. His future plans include going to college for engineering.

Tate Fohrenkamm has been chosen Webster Middle School’s student of the week. He is the son of Jennifer Capistrant and Shawn Fohrenkamm. He has great work habits and always gets his homework completed. Tate has a great sense of humor and gets along well with his classmates. His favorite subject is reading and he enjoys recess and basketball. Tate enjoys playing sports, board games and video games. He has two dogs.

SCF

LUCK

Christopher Pouliot has been chosen Luck Elementary School’s student of the week. He is in sixth grade and the son of Jon and Rayna Memmer. Chris is a very conscientious person and very helpful in the classroom. He has many friends, a great sense of humor and always has a smile on his face. Christopher can be counted on to get things done. He likes all sports and is involved in football and baseball. He enjoys the outdoors.

WEBSTER

GRANTSBURG

FREDERIC

If You Would Like To Be A Sponsor Of

STUDENT OF THE WEEK Please Call 715-327-4236

Pajamas and Teddy Bear Night at Unity Several of the Unity Elementary School kindergarten classes enjoyed a special night together at the Unity/Luck doubleheader basketball games.

The kids got together for a fun night with their teachers and watched the first half of the boys matchup, until halftime, when it was pretty close to bedtime. - Photo by Greg Marsten

Hope Anderson has been chosen St. Croix Falls Elementary School’s student of the week.

She is in second grade and the daughter of Todd and Rebecca Anderson. Math is Hope’s favorite subject because she really enjoys adding and subtracting, but she also likes reading. Hope likes to play with her dog. Her mom taught her how to do hand sewing and she is making a pillow. She is a lovely girl and a great student.

Mary Arnold has been chosen Webster High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Bill and Annette Arnold. Mary takes her academics very seriously. She is courteous and helpful to her classmates and is a great role model.

Mary is involved in band and softball. She enjoys reading.

SIREN

Whitney Plaster has been chosen Siren Middle School’s student of the week. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Todd Plaster.

Whitney is a hardworking cheerful young lady. She always comes into the room in a good mood.

She is kind to other students and is genuinely concerned about them. Whitney made the B honor roll for first quarter and strives to do even better.

Rachel Gloodt has been chosen Siren High School’s student of the week. She is a sophomore and the daughter of Jim and Jill Gloodt. Rachel is a hardworking, conscientious, good-humored and subtly confident student.

She likes to sing, draw and travel. Rachel plans to be in government and would like to pursue her dream at UW-Madison.

UNITY Dakota Bratland has been chosen Unity Middle School’s student of the week. She is in fifth grade and the daughter of Tina Bratland. Dakota is a strong student who has great behavior and work habits. She is a good example for others and is always willing to help other students.

Dakota’s assignments are completed on time and she follows expectations on a regular basis.

Congratulations, students!

PAGE 24 - INTER-COUNTY LEADER - NORTHERN CURRENTS, SECTION B - DECEMBER 23, 2009

DECEMBER EVERY MONDAY Clam Falls

• Dirty Clubs at the Clam Falls Bar, 6 p.m.

Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Coming events

Frederic

St. Croix Falls

• 500 cards 6:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve potluck party at 6 p.m. at the senior center, 715-4831901.

JANUARY FRIDAY/1 Frederic

• Potluck at the senior center at noon. Cards, Bingo or Pokeno to follow.

St. Croix Falls

• TOPS weekly meeting at Comforts of Home, 5:30 p.m.

• The senior center closed.

SATURDAY/2

Osceola

• TOPS weekly meeting at Trinity Lutheran Church, 8:30 a.m., 715-755-3123, 715-2943987.

Frederic

• Birthdays of the month potluck, cards and games at the senior center.

EVERY THURSDAY

MONDAY/4

Siren

Frederic

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

TUESDAY/5

THURS. & FRI./24 & 25

Clam Falls

Siren

• Coffee hour at the Clam Falls Lutheran Church, 10 a.m.

• Senior center closed.

THURSDAY/24

Osceola

Balsam Lake

• Free seminar on sleep disorders at the medical center, 6:30 p.m., 715-294-4936.

• Carriage rides with Santa outside Angler’s Inn, 5-9 p.m., 715-566-0566.

WEDNESDAY/6

Frederic

• Senior center closed.

Frederic

Siren

• Blood pressure screening at Bremer Bank, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Pokeno played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

• Ruby’s Food Shelf closed.

St. Croix Falls

• The senior center closed.

THURSDAY/7

Wolf Creek

Frederic

• Candlelight Christmas Service at Wolf Creek United Methodist Church, 4:30 p.m.

• 500 cards at the senior center, 6:30 p.m.

FRI.-SUN./25-27

FRIDAY/8

• “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” at Festival Theatre. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m., 715-483-3387, www.festivaltheatre.org.

• NW Regional Writers meeting at Sunrise Apartments, 1 p.m.

• Monthly meeting at the senior center, 1 p.m.

• Pokeno played at the senior center, 12:30 p.m. due to monthly meeting.

Frederic

St. Croix Falls

FRIDAY/25 Frederic

Frederic

• Spades played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Food shelf, 2-6 p.m.

• Senior center closed.

St. Croix Falls

Siren

• Senior center closed.

SATURDAY/26 Frederic

• Noon buffet and cards and games after refreshments at the senior center.

MONDAY/28 Balsam Lake

Two turtle doves? Nope, two cardinals in a pine tree, enjoying the winter scene in Polk County. – Photo by Marty Seeger

• H1N1 & seasonal flu vaccine clinic at the government center, 1-4 p.m., 715-485-8500.

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

TUESDAY/29 Balsam Lake

• H1N1 & seasonal flu vaccine clinic at the government center, 9 a.m.-noon, 715-485-8500.

Danbury

• Ravishing Rubies Red Hat Society luncheon at Wild Waters, noon.

St. Croix Falls

ior center, 715-483-1901.

WEDNESDAY/30

SATURDAY/9

• Pokeno played at the senior center at 1 p.m.

• Mini buffet, cards and games at the senior center.

Frederic Siren

• Cribbage at the senior center from 9-11:30 a.m.

THURSDAY/31 Frederic

• Senior center closed. No cards.

Siren

• Ruby’s Food Shelf, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Exercise 10-11 a.m., Skip-Bo 11 a.m. and 500 cards and Dominos 12:30 p.m. at the sen-

Transplanted tradition

Bob and Terry Dehn of Cambridge, Minn. brought their Christmas spirit with them when they moved in at 401 Traffic Ave. in the village of Frederic, covering most of the front yard with Christmas lights and decorations. Terry and her sister, Renee Swartz, shown above, donned Santa suits and handed out bags of candy to passers-by last Friday. The Dehns are carrying on a tradition they started at their home in Cambridge with hopes of creating a few smiles and a brighter holiday spirit in their new hometown. - Photos by Gary King

Frederic

SUNDAY/10 Danbury

• Beads of the Fur Trade event at Forts Folle Avoine, 715-866-8890.

MONDAY/11 Frederic

• Spades played at the senior center, 1 p.m.

Gingerbread creation

On Tuesday, Dec. 15, Luck kindergarten students, along with their moms, dads and grandparents, enjoyed a night of gingerbread house decorating. The houses, built from graham crackers, were put together by the teachers. Candies, sprinkles, cereal and treats were brought in by the students to use to make their houses colorful. Cameron shows off his finished gingerbread house. The children were all smiles with their finished products. - Photo submitted