Airfield mural comes to life
BY GREG MARSTEN EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
There is now a stunning mural adorning the southeast side of the Burnett Airfield Terminal in Siren, and
the visual treat is not only a colorful collage of colors and aircraft, it honors the late World War II Air Force ace, Richard Bong, as well as the legendary line of ‘Howard’ Aircraft, of which only a handful remain, but they are
celebrated annually with fly-ins at the airfield.
Celebrated large mural artist Taylor Rose of Maple created the glorious
SEE MURAL, PAGE 13
Webster sign ordinance issues
BY GREG MARSTEN EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
The fate of a series of huge, wooden beams planted in the ground at the corner of Oak Street and State Highway 35 in Webster – the skeleton of a two-sided billboard - appeared to be solved after over six months of deliberation, legal threats, zoning administration expansion and review, and more action, all addressing a process that went wrong, while addressing the primary issue at hand: the beams of the partially constructed billboard.
The billboard quandary stems from a past, mistaken 2023 Webster Village Board approval to grant a variance and land-use permit for the construction of the wedge-shaped billboard, which they later realized they didn’t have the authority to grant, as the sign was technically non-compliant, as the business was not on that site nor within 100-feet of the SEE BILLBOARD, PAGE 11
St. Croix Tribal business ventures explode - in a good way
STX Fireworks is the latest investment
BY GREG MARSTEN
EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
The St. Croix Chippewa Tribe continue to move into new areas of business, premiering their latest venture last week in Danbury with the opening of STX Fireworks, just South of the Casino.
The new fireworks superstore may seem familiar, as it was one of the sites for the previous Victory Fireworks operation. The new venture, called
‘STX Fireworks,’ is the first of several pending opportunities the Tribe has moved into recently, including the new ‘Zhashagiins’ event center in Siren, as well as the purchase of another parcel of property from the previous Victory Fireworks firm in Siren, which is slated to be a unique retail store, called ‘Maamigins Bead Store’ – with a rough Ojibwe interpretation meaning “A Place to Gather.” That store is set to open later this month, offering a variety of Native American arts, projects, supplies and more, along with unique Native American items made locally.
“We’re working toward that (opening)!” stated Tribal Council member Conrad St. John, who joined fellow council members Bernice Taylor and Rick Benjamin at the STX ribbon cutting.
We’ll have more information on the ‘Maamigins’ store down the road, but the focus last week was on the Independence Day holiday and the Tribe’s fireworks expansion.
The new STX Fireworks store also drew members of the St. Croix Tribal Economic Development
SEE FIREWORKS, PAGE 10
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
Mural artist Taylor Rose works on a colorful project now completed at the Burnett County Airfield in Siren. The mural is on the Southeast side of the main terminal, just beside County Road K. It is sure to be a cool stopping point for tourists, pilots and others who spot it from the road.
Bailey sentenced to life in prison
She was found guilty of murdering St. Croix Falls woman 38 years ago
BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET
Mary Josephine Bailey, convicted last month of 1st-degree murder in the 1985 shooting death of Yvonne Menke, was sentenced to life in prison Tuesday, July 2, during a sentencing hearing held at the Polk County Courthouse.
St. Croix County Judge Scott J. Nordstrand sentenced Bailey after hearing brief statements from the prosecution and from three members of the victim’s family.
In the prosecution’s statement, Assistant District Attorney Holly Wood-Webster drew attention to how Bailey had reacted prior to and during the trial.
SEE BAILEY, PAGE 15
Charges filed in attempted murder
BY GREG MARSTEN EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
An air of confusion surrounds the criminal complaint filed against a rural Grantsburg man accused of shooting his girlfriend in the head and then shooting himself in the head - with both of them surviving.
Michael Winquist, age 29, of the Town of West Marshland, is facing a total of eight felonies and one Winquist
SEE CHARGES, PAGE 9
USPS delivers second price increase of 2024
Mail costs are going up in July. Stamps for regular letters move from 68 to 73 cents, a 7.3% bump. Marketing mail is going up 7.8%. Postcards go up from 53 to 56 cents. In-county Periodical mail goes up 9.9%. Large volume packages known as Parcel Select go up 25%, while standard Ground Advantage packages have no price change. New rates start Sunday, July 14.
The USPS lost $6.5 billion in 2023, during a year when it raised postage prices in both January and July. It raised prices in January of 2024 and is now raising prices again in July. USPS expects to lose money again in 2024, due to inflation costs and reduced mail volume.
More frequent price increases, pacing lately at two per year, are part USPS’ 10-year plan for financial stability. For example, periodical mail used by newspapers and magazines increased 47% since the start of USPS’ financial stability plan in 2021.
The Postal Regulatory Commission, which oversees the USPS, said the upcoming July increase, “… is not prudent, and is not consistent with the best interest of all stakeholders. Specifically, the Commission remains concerned about the
Attention: New Rates
The USPS is raising rates July 14 for both general public and commercial mail users. The cost of printing has also increased. Due to these increases, it is essential that the cost of subscriptions also increase. Please see the table below for the new subscription prices effective July 1. We value our subscribers and don’t make these decisions lightly.
substantial declines in Market-Dominant volumes …”
National Newspaper Association chair John Galer, publisher of the Journal-News in Hillsboro, IL, said “The model of continuing to raise rates while providing intensely bad service is becoming increasingly problematic for newspapers and our readers in the country.”
Galer said subscription increases “will be made necessary by the postal service’s action.”
The Burnett County Sentinel along with other U.S. periodicals are increasing home-delivery subscription prices to coincide with postage increases. Sentinel subscriptions move from $49 to $53 per year.
USPS postage increases had inflation-based price caps before its 2021 plan launched. The 10-year plan allows it to raise rates faster than inflation. The plan also
slows its delivery standards, allowing USPS six days to deliver versus three days previously required.
Volume of first-class mail, the USPS’ most profitable mail type, fell 6.1% in 2023.
Slow and declining mail service recently caused a bi-partisan group of 22 U.S. Senators to send a letter to USPS, which said, “In regions where USPS has implemented significant (delivery network) changes, on-time mail delivery has declined. In addition, it is not clear these (processing) changes will improve efficiency or costs.”
The U.S. Government Accountability Office, or GAO, reports “(USPS) expenses are growing faster than its revenues, in part due to continuing declines in volume of First-Class mail – its most profitable product. USPS has been able to continue operating in
this situation by increasing its debt…” GAO is recommending USPS adopt a “lesson learned” process to track results.
Sentinel publisher Tom Stangl said, “Home delivery of the newspaper is still a value at $1.02 per issue with the new rates. And, home delivery subscribers get unlimited access to the paper’s website including the e-paper and twice-yearly Backroads glossy magazine as an added benefit of having a subscription.” Galer said, “USPS is betting the farm on its ability to become a primary carrier of commercial packages because it believes the Internet is going to drive away its mail business. But I am telling the USPS: This is a bad bet. The package business is leveling off and the loss of mail is being driven by these (price) increases, rather than occurring organically.”
4th of July Boat Parade
The annual 4th of July Boat Parade on Lake Viola will be held at 4 p.m. on July 4 at the boat landing. Any who would like to decorate their boats festively and join the parade may join. All the boats will circle the lake twice showing off their boats decorated in red, white, and blue (the people too!), showing off their 4th of July spirit. In the spirit of preserving the Great Lake and the safety of all participants, the coordinators of the event would like to discourage the use of water balloons and encourage the use of squirting devices instead. If the parade runs into any inclement weather, the coordinators will keep everyone posted on the Lake Viola Facebook page for any time or date changes.
THURSDAY, JULY 4
Woden Fish and Shopping Bus BURNETT COUNTY— Available to all area campgrounds, there is a bus that will be available Tuesdays through Thursdays to take campers fishing, shopping, antiquing, clothes shopping, and to other local attractions. The bus holds up to 14 people at a time. This was put together as a way to get local campers out on the town to experience the county and help tick up tourism. Any campgrounds that have an interest in setting up a trip or have any questions can reach Todd Lawrence at 715-817-3350 or through email at wodenfishbus@gmail.com. Todd originally took the idea of the Woden Fish Bus to the Webb Lake Men's Club and Fishbowl Sportsman Organization who whole heartedly supported sparking the local economy one fish at a time. There are also many other fish sponsors who are stops for the bus.
Music in the Park
SIREN— 6:30 p.m. Music in the Park is being held at the Crooked Lake Park Bandshell. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy an evening of great music by the Siren Community Band, who will play concert band music. The Siren Lions will be there serving pulled pork, brats, hot dogs and snacks that will be available for purchase.
July 4 Celebration and Parade
WEBSTER— 11 a.m. The Webster Fire Department Brat Feed and Fireman's water fight will begin at 11 a.m., and the parade will take place at 1:30 p.m. on Main Street.
FRIDAY, JULY 5
Free Bread
FALUN— 8 a.m. Trinity Lutheran Church in Falun gives away free bread every Friday year-round beginning at 8 a.m. until gone.
Meat Raffle
WEBSTER— 5:30 p.m. The Webster Lions will be hosting a meat raffle on Fridays North of Webster at the Gandy Dancer Bar on County Road U.
Grantsburg Farmer’s Market
GRANTSBURG— 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. The Grantsburg Farmer’s Market is open for the season and will take place every Friday at Memory Lake near Brickfield Brewing.
SATURDAY, JULY 6
Meat Raffle
DANBURY— 1 p.m. American Legion Post 403 will be holding a meat raffle every Saturday at Wild Water Bar & Grill.
Meat Raffle
GRANTSBURG— 6:30 p.m. The American Legion in Grantsburg is holding a meat raffle every Saturday at The Foxhole. Siren Farmer’s Market
SIREN— 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The Siren Farmer’s Market is open for the season and will take
place every Saturday in Adventure’s parking lot.
Fireworks
WEBSTER— 7 p.m. Fireworks in Webster will be taking place at the Central Burnett County Fairgrounds at dusk. Prior to fireworks, beginning at 7 p.m., there will be music, food, and beverages at the fairgrounds as well.
SUNDAY, JULY 7
Skonewood Musical Program
CUSHING— 6:30 p.m. Northern Pines will perform at Skonewood this Sunday. Northern Pines consists of a group led by Al Hershey, along with his brother, Gerald, and others from Spooner. Expect to hear bluegrass, as well as other harmonic music. Instruments include guitar, dog house bass, fiddle, mandolin, dobro and banjo. A congregational hymn sing, with Ann Bell at the keyboard, will begin at 6:15. Bring your lawn chair or sit in your car and enjoy a great night of music overlooking Mirror Lake. Refreshments will be served following music.
MONDAY, JULY 8
Ruby’s Food Shelf
SIREN— 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ruby’s Food Shelf is open to residents in the Siren and Webster/ Danbury school districts. It is located in the back of Ruby’s Secondhand Store in Siren. It is open every Monday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., every Wednesday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and every Friday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 9
Weekday Rides
LAFOLLETTE— 10:30 a.m. The Lake Country Pedalers are going to be having the Holly’s Drive In bike ride. This ride starts at the LaFollette Town Hall. Each weekday ride is between 8-11 miles long with a break mid-way for lunch. Visit LakeCountryPedalers.com for any updates or cancellations.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 10
Danbury Farmer’s Market DANBURY— 3 – 6 p.m. The Danbury Farmer’s Market is open for the season and will take place every Wednesday in the Log Cabin Store and Eatery parking lot.
“If you aren’t at the table, you are on the menu.” – Texas Gov. Ann Richards (addressing Women’s rights)
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Mail: Burnett County Sentinel P.O. Box 397 Grantsburg, WI 54840
Phone: 715-463-2341 FAX: 715-463-5138
Email: Tom Stangl, Publisher tstangl@theameryfreepress.com
Greg Marsten, Editor editor@burnettcountysentinel.com
Darcy Kolander, Advertising Sales marketing@burnettcountysentinel.com
Diane Murrey, Office Manager office@burnettcountysentinel.com
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Kayla Casey, Editorial Assistant news@burnettcountysentinel.com
Our office is located at: 114 W. Madison Ave., Grantsburg, WI 54840.
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OPINION
Kicking the Can
“Kick the Can” was a huge urban neighborhood competition in my youth; We had about 10-15 kids who played, and it was always a challenge to AVOID being “It.” If you’re not familiar with the game, one person – the “It” - closes their eyes and counts while everyone else scatters across the neighborhood hiding. The “It” person then looks for the hidden folks and if they’re found, the “It” person goes back to a can in the middle of the alley, holding his/ her foot on it while calling out the found person. The “found” person then goes to “jail,” awaiting someone who, yes, kicks the can, freeing everyone from jail. Like a pardon.
Sentinel
Editor
It’s kind of a kids’ version of a ‘Seal Team 6’ operation, only without the fatal headshots, black face paint and clandestine spy network involvement. Okay, so, maybe not THAT similar.
Our alley had multiple hiding places and often the race to kick the can was stifled by the “It” person standing on said can while the runner tries to kick it. This occasionally led to a violent collision between players. On a concrete alley. Wearing shorts. That led to a pause in the action, as we emerged from our hiding spots and gathered behind the Ort Family’s garage to decide who was correct, the “kicker” or the “kickee.” The two parties would tell their sides and we would “vote” on who was the new “It,” if it changed.
We prided ourselves on getting the decision right, and this went on for a few years until we all either grew up, moved away, or had our parents read us the riot act for all the skinned knees and hands from collisions at The Can.
Like millions of American citizens, I’ve watched in silent horror recently as our bizarro world radical, activist right-wing High Court and their propped-up traitor minions take us back a few hundred years with their recent decisions. They’ve not only stripped agencies of enforcement of science-based standards (Chevron ruling), but they’ve also ruled that presidents (ahem) have nearly a free ticket to usurp all reasonable laws – empowering a slew of elected traitors, criminals, grifters, liars and others who might try to make their power and entitlements everlasting – you know, because they love the flag and “Freedom.”
The High Courts have already stripped female citizens of rights, as well as Native Tribes, rape and incest victims, victims of corporate greed, normal and reasonable limits to pollution, toxic chemicals, liability for the people and companies responsible for climate change, student loan relief, gerrymandered elections, pay equality, child immigrants, unwarranted search and seizure (unless it’s at a Florida “resort,” of course), all while pretending we’re doomed because of immigration – you know, THOSE KIND of immigrants – while refusing to solve it and lying about it all to get Their Guy into a new, sponsored King’s Throne.
SEE EDITOR’S DESK, PAGE 8
AGreg Marsten HOW TO REACH US: Our office is located at 114 W. Madison Ave., Grantsburg, WI 54840. We are open from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday - Friday. Call: 715-463-2341; Fax: 715-463-5138; Mail: P.O. Box 397, Grantsburg, WI 54840; Web: www.burnettcountysentinel.com
Very few options
s President Ronald Reagan would say, “There you go again..”
The “Gipper” was usually prefacing something an opponent was trying to pull when he used the phrase, but I’m purloining it to talk about the United States Postal Service (USPS).
This month, USPS is raising prices on postage nearly across the board, including for newspaper. In county postage, the largest number of copies we mail, will increase by 10%. This increase is the 11th price increase in the past six years.
From the Publisher’s Desk
Tom Stangl
As you probably have surmised, we will be raising the cost of a subscription to the paper. I hate that we have to pass along these increases. I feel you and I, gentle reader, have a relationship that is a partnership and from time to time we have to have these types of discussions.
A little historical background is in order here. In 1863, in an attempt to get newspapers to use the mail for distribution, USPS cut postage rates to just two cents per pound for publications issued at least once a week. The rate was cut in half in 1885, to just one cent per pound. These rate reductions finally made sending newspapers and periodicals through the mail affordable.
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum had an article highlighting the history of USPS and newspapers that said: “Postage now affordable, newspapers sprang-up all over the country, linking citizens with their state capitals and with Washington, D.C., and inviting greater citizen participation in politics. Clearly, Newspaper and Periodical stamps are a testament to a democratic government.”
Like any other business, newspapers took advantage of these lower rates to make money. One of the
Tom Stangl, Publisher tstangl@theameryfreepress.com
Greg Marsten, Editor editor@burnettcountysentinel.com
Darcy Kolander, Advertising Sales marketing@burnettcountysentinel.com
Sue VanBuskirk, Classifieds classifieds@theameryfreepress.com
Diane Murrey, Office Manager office@burnettcountysentinel.com
Sports sports@burnettcountysentinel.com
Nicole Gagner, Graphic Design ngagner@theameryfreepress.com
Rebecca LaMar, Graphic Design design@burnettcountysentinel.com
Kayla Casey, Editorial Assistant news@burnettcountysentinel.com
John Downing, Mary Rutsis, Darcy Kolander. Substitutes: Terry Fry, Dennis Hanson Couriers
ways was to have subscription costs low. Looking back, the price readers have paid for newspaper subscriptions has been too low for probably a century. USPS used to mirror rate increases with the cost of living, but a new formula put in place in 2020 allows for more frequent and higher price increases. Regular readers have noticed semi-annual price increases as the norm. An article on Government Executive website states Postmaster General Louis DeJoy “vowed as part of his 10-year business plan to use his authority to raise rates above inflation ‘judiciously,’ but predicted USPS would generate between $35 billion and $52 billion by 2031 by raising prices. He has acknowledged that would drive some mail out of the system, but said he was only slightly speeding up the timeline for an inevitable drop off.
In my opinion, DeJoy’s obsession with converting USPS into a UPS or FedEx is mistaken and will ultimately be the ruin of the institution. USPS’ highest profit margin product is first class mail, which is rapidly being delayed. I also believe DeJoy wants newspapers to pay the same price as first class mail. Mailing a newspaper first class costs over $2.00 an issue at current rates.
Like any other business that has preferential treatment as a core of its business model, newspapers will continue to fight for good delivery at a fair price. We have precious few other options for delivery, and all are more expensive.
Advertising cannot and will not be able to make up for these increased costs. That leaves you, gentle reader, to pay more for the newspaper. We will continue to do our best to make a product worthy of your time and trust. We value our partnership.
As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress. com, telephone 715-268-8101 or write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.
Vote No on questions 1 and 2 on the upcoming Aug. 13 Primary Ballot
To the Editor:
Right now, the Republican legislators are sitting on funding for PFAS cleanup because they don't want the DNR so involved. DNR stands for “Department of Natural Resources”. Last time I checked, water is a natural resource.
Republicans are also sitting on funding for health care in the Eau Claire area where, back in April, Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire and St. Joseph's Hospital in Chippewa Falls along with 19 clinics closed. The Republican legislature only wants to fund emergency services. That area lost more than emergency services with these closures. Governor Evers and Tammy Baldwin talked to the leaders in the area and want the money to be controlled by local people who know where the money is really needed, like more mental health services. Instead of working with Governor Evers to really help local rural populations, Republicans want to amend the constitution and take his power away by requiring him to get the approval of a politicized and bureaucratic legislative board whenever he needs to spend federal money, even in an emergency. Think about it. In an emergency, you don't want the funding to be held up waiting weeks or even months. After all, the legislature has been sitting on the Medicaid Expansion for over 10 years. According to wispolitics.com this expansion would have covered 87,000 more Wisconsinites and rural hospitals would have received more funding.
The amendments are opposed by the following organizations: League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Education Association Council, Wisconsin Association of Local Health Departments & Boards, Wisconsin Conservation Voters, and the Wisconsin Public Health Association. All this opposition shows how many areas would be adversely affected. Republican voters should consider that these amendments may benefit the current Republican legislature, but they also may give a future Democratic congress more power.
We need legislatures who will compromise with Governor Evers so we can use approved federal funding to really help our rural communities. We don't need an added layer of bureaucracy designed to stop progress. Vote NO on questions 1 and 2 and stop these unnecessary but permanent constitutional changes. Finally, please check out last week's article in the Leader on the Jefferson Dueholm picnic to see positive ideas for governing our state.
Jeanette Gackstetter Webster
Correcting wrongs -
The Dobbs decision
Dear Editor,
Two years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the Dobbs decision. It was the first time the Court explicitly took away an American right, making half of Americans subservient to government edict. The 6-3 decision said that states must determine abortion rights Letting states decide
is part of a legal doctrine that allows the minority to rule.
Look at how the Dobbs decision is playing out two years later:
• 14 states now have total abortion bans and seven have restrictions that were not permitted pre-Dobbs. Texas has a total ban. In the past two years, Texas saw an increase in infant mortality of 12.9%, compared with an increase of 1.8% nationally. (JAMA Pediatrics) In the 16 months after the Texas ban, 26,313 rape-related pregnancies occurred there (JAMA Internal Medicine).
• The cruelty of abortion bans spotlights that reproductive health care sometimes requires an abortion.
• Abortions have increased since Dobbs, due to the availability of medication abortion at less than 70 days (Guttmacher Institute).
• Majorities of men (61%) and women (64%) support legal abortion (Pew Research).
• In Wisconsin, abortion is legal based on a district court judge’s decision. Judicial decisions can be challenged or overwritten by new laws.
Recap: The need for abortion as a healthcare practice or choice didn’t go away, women were forced to bear ill-fated pregnancies to term, and the infants died anyway.
What’s next?
Republicans have a 900-page vision called “Project 2025-Presidential Transition Project” for how a Republican president should run government. Here are examples regarding women’s reproductive health care:
• Proposes the “Unitary Executive Theory “ that gives the office of the President total authority above legislative and judicial branches. Presumed candidate Trump does not like fair voting. Assume voting rights will crumble.
• Bans abortion, IVF, most contraceptives.
• Makes medical professionals criminals if they attempt to save a woman’s life.
• Surveils pregnant women.
Democrats will follow “The Golden Rule approach” by putting Roe-like rights into federal legislation, so that women who need an abortion can get one, and women who do not want an abortion are not forced by government to do so. Medical professionals would not be criminals.
There are candidates on the Northwest Wisconsin ballots who trust women. Vote in the Aug. 13 primary and Nov. 5 general election. Register to vote at myvote.wi.gov.
Anne Taylor Webster
Checking the spewing
For those who follow politics and watched or read about the presidential debate last week, you know that fact checkers must have struggled to fully analyze Trump’s ‘spewing’ (CNN didn’t even try), and Biden had difficulty making his points in this format.
I’m far less concerned about Biden than Trump because Biden consistently demonstrates a balanced ego. I don’t expect news immediately,
but I’m confident that he’ll head up a pragmatic review of the situation, listen to advisors and do what’s best for the country rather than feed his ego. Also, if needed, Democrats have other capable and proven leaders who share Biden’s balanced ego and love of country. We knew that four years ago and many of us took that into account when we voted for our elder statesman then.
I was going to write about what’s ‘real’ when it comes to Trump/ MAGA claims about the economy and cite a recent article in Axios (“Scoop: 16 Nobel economists see a Trump inflation bomb”) but Trump and Biden made statements on the economy that can be fact-checked by anyone. So please research those statements using the non-partisan fact checkers that are available online.
https://www.politifact.com/article/2024/jun/28/2024-presidential-debate-fact-check-biden-trump/ https://www.factcheck. org/2024/06/factchecking-the-bidentrump-debate/ https://www.snopes.com/category/ politics/
Here’s the Axios article: https://www.axios.com/2024/06/25/ nobel-prize-winners-biden-economy-trump-inflation
If you want more, try asking the search engines this question: “Which economists endorse a second term for Trump?”
As Kamala Harris says, “I believe you’ve got to do your due diligence.”
Peter Truitt Danbury
These ARE the good times
To The Editor:
Have we all failed to notice that these are the good times? Yes, we have!
We are in transition to a green energy future. That’s a really good future. It is not a bad thing that fossil fuels are becoming obsolete. Within these next fifty years we are likely to be implementing fusion energy. Currently, we are beginning to implement much safer and more efficient nuclear fission energy. We are already massively invested in clean solar and wind energy. All of this while our technologies for ways to more efficiently use energy are advancing every year. These are the good times. Unemployment is low. Inflation is low. Medical services are broader and better than ever before. Our phone, computer and travel technologies are amazing, low cost and empowering us as individuals. On top of all that, our new energy technologies are leading us to a better world.
I was a child amidst the “duck-andcover” cold-war fears of the 1950’s. I was a young person when the body bags came home from war in the 1960’s. I was an adult in the economic recession and gas shortages of the 1970’s. There is always something to fear. The ending of the era of oil and gas is not one of those. Despite our fears, the 2020’s post-COVID are the good times. An environmentally healthy and prosperous green energy future beckons. We need not succumb to our fears. We can make it happen.
George Einar Busséy Ashland
Visitors from space (2)
We keep pondering on the thoughts of who left all these mysterious structures behind, what kind of creatures these visitors are, and where do they come from? We already know that the universe consists of millions and millions of galaxies, and each galaxy has millions and millions of its own planets (according to Carl Sagan, the famous astrologist, there are billions and billions of galaxies and planets in the universe). So, what are the chances that not one, but a few other planets like our mother earth do also exist in this infinite cosmos? And what if, just what if, those beings that inhibit those planets are more advanced than us earthlings? Here we are, thinking that it is such an historical event by exploring the moon, and setting up space stations to search for life forms from other planets. But what if those ‘space beings’ had already come to visit earth a long time ago, left their marks and took off, just to return in another trillion years later to check us out again? I bet next time when we watch ‘Star Wars,’ we will have a different perspective. Then I remember the UFO stories that happened in Roswell, New Mexico, back in the 50s. A local farmer noticed some strange objects from the sky had landed in his farm one dark evening, so he gathered the scattered pieces and brought them to the local authority, as he could not figure out what they were. Since the town is not far from the military base, the marshal would transport the materials to the headquarters for further examination. However, when reports came out about the incident later, they were all totally different stories. Some said it was a stray weather balloon, some said it was debris dropped from a cargo plane from the military base. But the one that caught the world’s attention was the report of a UFO crash landed at the site, with aliens still trapped inside! Someone even created an image of the alien – a big round head with oversized eyes, with a slender and skinny body, and hands with only three fingers. Roswell soon became a landmark, and the created images of the aliens were printed on everything – T-shirts, coffee cups…., and even the local McDonald’s is shaped like a spaceship. Around the same time, sightings of UFO’s were all over the world. And some folks even reported that they had been abducted by aliens. Rumors and fabricated stories were everywhere, and naturally, Hollywood made a mint rolling out tons of movies that had space themes involved. Most of the time, aliens were not depicted as friendly beings. They were evil creatures who wanted to take over mother earth. With all the problems that we are having these days, and all the wars that are raging around the globe why would the aliens want to invade us? Maybe they are not as bright as they seemed to be? So, what do the aliens look like? In many carvings on the stone boulders, scientists discovered that many images are almost identical to our modern space crafts. Those identical carvings are discovered in the pyramids in Egypt, and amongst the Inca and the Aztec civilizations. Just how could it be possible? How could those folks even fabricate how a spaceship, or an astronaut looks like then? Or to imagine just what it would look like when a rocket ship takes
Wok with Me
Peter H. Kwong
Non-profit organization is seeking local families for hosting high school exchange students
ASSE International Student Exchange Programs (ASSE), in cooperation with your community high school, is looking for local families to host boys and girls ages 15–18 for the next academic year. Students from all over the world –places like Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, and Ukraine, to name a few – have already received scholarships to study in the USA; all they need now is you!
Testimony from Brittany Dusek: Growing up we always had an exchange student in our house. Some of my fondest memories are with these people. I still keep in touch with many of them today. I love that my kids get to have these experiences as well. It is the best feeling to see your child learn from someone that has first-hand experience in what other parts of the world are like. I love getting to watch the students grow throughout their time here in America. They all learn new things and see what is or-
dinary to us, in a whole new light. It makes me think about all the things that I take for granted, and begin to see it differently as well.
ASSE is designated and supervised by the U.S. Department of State. Preparations are underway for the 2023-24 program year and the arrival of our new future leaders this Autumn. ASSE students come with an enthusiasm to practice their English and experience American culture -- food, sports, shopping, and more. They also love to share their own culture with their host families – who welcome them not as a guest, but as family members – giving both the students and families a rich cultural experience.
In addition, ASSE students have pocket money for personal expenses, along with health, accident, and liability insurance. ASSE students are selected for participation based on academics and good citizenship. Host families can choose their
students from a wide variety of backgrounds, countries, and personal interests.
ASSE’s top concern is the health of our host families, host communities, and exchange students. Even as the U.S. and many other countries continue to live under temporary stay-at-home orders, we would like to reassure you that these students will not travel unless it is considered safe to do so by the U.S. and foreign governmental agencies entrusted with public health and safety.
To become a host family, or to find out how to become involved with ASSE in your community, please call Brittany at 763-516-8204 or the ASSE Midwestern Regional Office at 1-800-736-1760 or go to www. host.asse.com to begin your host family application. There are many students to choose from, so begin the process of welcoming your new son or daughter into your family today!
AREA STUDENTS RECEIVE DEGREES FROM UW-RIVER FALLS
The following local residents were among 676 students receiving degrees from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls following fall commencement in Dec. 2023.
Danbury: Jenna Gomulak, Bachelor of Science, Animal Science
Grantsburg: Jami Michel, Master of Science, Communication Sciences and Disorders
Webster: Ron Stelson, Master of Science - Education, School Supervision
AREA STUDENT NAMED TO DEAN’S LIST AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN- MILWAUKEE
The following individual has been named to the Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for the Spring 2024 semester.
Grantsburg: Melanie Lee, Biomed Sci & HCA Undergraduate
Happy Independence Day or 4th of July! Hope everyone has a chance to gather with their families and friends for a chance to celebrate, surrounded by the colors of red, white and blue, and the evening skies filled burst with fireworks to admire. July gives us many observances: July 1 is Canada Day, July 4 is Independence Day, July 6 is International Kissing Day and National Fried Chicken Day, July 7 is National Strawberry Sundae Day. Sounds like a very pleasant start for the month. Birthday wishes go out to: Mary S. Johnson on July 1, Peter Johnson on July 6, Darlene Johnson James O. Nelson on July 8, July 11 is Jim Katzmark, Mariea Strait, and Sandy Eng. John Lindberg and Pam Geiger on July 28, Berdella Johnson on July 30, and Evonne Finch on July 31. Remember, ALL meal reservations are required to be at least 24 hours in advance. So, please, call Siren: 715-349-2154 for your requests. Meals are now being prepared at ADRC Nutrition Centralized Kitchen in Siren.
Questions: about the center or other requests, call the center at 715-463-2940 or email us at: gburg118@gmail.com. You can contact Patzy Wenthe at 715-222-6400 for any other questions.
It’s another beautiful day and not raining. We are lucky compared to the people who are sandbagging their homes. There is still time to sign up for the Mahjong tournament in September. On Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m. we play Dime Bingo and it’s always nice to see new people join in. This time, Rose and Sharon brought in treats to go with ice cream for our break. We have many dime winners but only
one winner for the dollar game. This week Sharon was the lucky winner. We had a nice turnout this week. Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. the 500 Card Club is here. They had seven tables of competitors. Pete Olsen took the lead with 4070, followed by Roger G. 3730, Jim Albee 3710, Tony Rutter 3650, Brittani Hughes 3600, Teresa Vollrath 3380, Marion Obszorny 3260 and Bridget Cleary 3260. At 1 p.m. on Wednes-
days the Samba group comes in and they usually have four tables of players. Spades is played on Friday with Bruce leading the way with 1353, followed by Brittany 1346, and Sue C. 1346.
It’s hard to believe that June is ending. Summer is sure flying by faster than winter. Have a wonderful week!
COMING EVENTS
• Aux Rummage Sale at the Legion– July 12 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and July 13 from 8 a.m. –noon
• Pink Squirrel – July 17-21: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Grantsburg Watercross – July 19-21
• Soup & Soul – Monday, July 22: 6 p.m.
• Fun with friends, everyday!
Hi everybody, this week we get to celebrate the birth of this great country of ours. Can you imagine what it must have been like way back then? Everyone had to do their job, or they didn't eat. What did they call a convenience? Guess you had to belong to the upper class. I'm glad we had brave men and women to believe in freedom enough to fight for it. I think our flag is awesome. I've always been proud of it! I have a beautiful wooden handmade one that I love. If I could figure out how to print pictures from my phone to here, I'd show you my flag. I'm too old to learn new tricks. Following is the schedule of the coming week at the Senior Center. We still ask for a donation of $2 for each event you take part in. Free, cold water on hand and free coffee when needed.
UPCOMING EVENTS
• July 4: No activities, celebrate our country!
• July 8: Hand, Knee, and Foot Cards at 10 a.m. and an AA meeting at 6 p.m.
• July 10: Dime Bingo at 12:30 p.m. Bring $6 in dimes and a $1 bill for the last hand. Contacts for the Center: Joanne Larson, call or leave a message at 715-656-3545. Judy Bauerfeld, call or text at 715-566-2496. Happy birthday to the United States of America.
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Sharing our culture with students from other nations and cultures can be educational for everyone involved, including hosts!
GRANTSBURG SENIORS by Patzy Wenthe
WEBSTER SENIORS by Joanne Larson
SIREN SENIORS
by Sally Larson
AN OUTDOORSMAN’S JOURNAL
Return of the Canada Gang
BY MARK WALTERS
Hello friends,
Back in 1982 I was 21 and my brother Mike was 25. Along with my dad, the late Robert Walters, and a family friend, we flew by float plane to Shultz Lake which is 55 air miles northwest of Red Lake and absolutely kicked butt on walleye and northern pike. Forty-two years later, Chimo Lodge and Outposts, formally owned by my good friends Pete and Elizabeth Hagedorn is owned by Chris and Tammy Leblanc and I am happy to say there is not a flaw in the way this business is run. Mike and I, along with my brother Tom Walters, brother-in-law Dick Schuster, nephew Trent Schuster, high school and lifelong friends Jeff Moll and Roger Frank and family friend Steve Mellone just returned from seven days in the promised land.
Saturday, June 15
High 69, low 47
The theme for the first six days of this trip would be cold and windy. Not chilling cold, but because of constant winds it wore on a person. We arrived yesterday, camped in Pete and Elizabeth’s backyard and flew to Shultz today, fish catching was very good, and the mood was even better. Jeff Moll, who is entering his 50th year as a Red Brush Hunter (our deer camp), would be my partner for the day and we did well as Jeff won the “big walleye” for the day for the group. Trent Schuster’s first fish of the trip was caught on a night crawler harness, and it was a 39inch northern pike. Tonight, it was our usual antics of fresh walleye and playing crap on your neighbor, Moll and I saw daylight before calling it a day.
Sunday, June 16
High 65, low 45
Steve Mellone is the new guy in the group and Steve would have an incredible trip. Today he was fishing with my brother Tom and caught a 40-inch gator which knocked Trent out of the picture by an inch. Steve would see moose and bear on this trip, could stay up till the cows come home, and is a lot of fun. I mentioned the chill in the air, it was the wind, and it would make boat handling, especially while fighting a good fish a very large challenge and every day but the last I wore knee boots and pants instead of sandals and shorts.
Monday, June 17
High 72, low 51
About five years ago much of the bush around Shultz Lake burned and we were here in ‘95 when it burned. People often speak poorly about forest fires but let me tell you, the new growth of aspen, birch and jack pine is beautiful and a smorgasbord for the local moose. Today I would be fishing
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with my 32-year-old nephew Trent Schuster, and we would take a boat from camp, travel to a portage “trail” and then hike to another lake where there is a boat. There are lake trout in this lake as well northern pike and walleye. Over 42 years we have only caught five trout and Trent wanted to make it six. Instead of just going after walleye that average 19-20 inches in this lake, we rigged up with 4-ounce weights and Trent used a 2-ounce jig with a 4-inch twister tail. We trolled in 60-feet of water and Trent had a hard hit and then an excellent fight by what would be a beautiful 29-inch laker. We had a day to fish and put it on a long stringer in deep water so the eagles would not get it and within one minute two arrived and failed as the trout was too deep to reach. Next on the Trent Schuster Show was walleye. Numbers-wise things were a bit slow, especially when compared to his uncle, but in this gang, size matters and while I was
WEEKLY WAG
catching numerous walleyes between 20 and 24-inches and while Trent was still living in the glory of his trout, he was basically just an observer. The size game worked out very nicely when he hooked into a good fish, and we were being pushed hard by the wind. Trent caught a beautiful 27.25-inch walleye and what is really cool is that no more than five minutes after releasing it, he caught another 27-incher.
We fished hard all day and had a blast and then headed back to camp and baked one of the trout fillets for a snack for the group to go with our supper. On this night, crap on your neighbor and lots of laughs kept most of the gang up until there was daylight on the eastern horizon and in all our minds, we were splendidly aware that we had five more days of living large.
Live ‘till your heart stops! Sunset.
With the July 4th weekend and the likelihood of lots of fireworks, please be mindful and respectful of your neighbors and all the animals. It’s not uncommon for the shelters to get inundated with lost dogs and cats that run away in fear of the loud noise. Just a few tips – make sure your pets are wearing ID tags and/or microchipped, keep your pets indoor during fireworks, never leave pets unattended even in a secure yard, have current, clear photos of your pet, just in case, play music or TV to help drown out the noise, find a way to distract them from the noise. DO NOT coddle a frightened animals as that will reinforce their fear. Please keep your furry friends safe and if they do run, check with the shelter!
Rusty is a five-year-old dog with quite the typical hound personality. He loves to be outside, and bark at all the things! He loves going for car rides, lounging in the sun, and loves having some other dogs to cuddle up with. Rusty has adorable, floppy ears, and deep brown eyes, and just the softest coat! He has a little bit of food aggression that he could use some extra training with, and he seems to have some separation anxiety if he is away from his humans, really exposing that long hound howl! Overall, Rusty really is a nice dog. He is potty trained, neutered and up to date on vaccines! Rusty is sponsored, so with an approved application he is free. Viola (black) and Dawn are very bonded and are almost always together cuddling or just hanging out and it would be perfect if that had a home together. Viola can be a shy young lady, but since coming to us has come a long way and being with other cats has helped her gain confidence. She’s not big on being picked up but won’t turn down a good neck rub and pats on her back. Dawn is Viola’s cuddle buddy. She can initially be a little on the timid side with strangers, but once you hold her, she is all snuggles!! Both would do best in a quieter home and no little kids. If you have it in your heart to adopt these two together and give them a loving home – with an approved application the adoption fee is waived.
Adoptions are still slow, and we are at capacity, so it makes it difficult to take in any more animals that need help. Please consider adopting a deserving cat or dog, they need you! Have a great week!
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There is something extremely adventurous about bush planes!
Steve Mellone with a beautiful northern pike that he caught and released on Schultz Lake.
CONTRIBUTED
Trent Schuster with a good-sized Lake Trout!
Rusty
Viola & Dawn
Wisconsin constitutional amendments seek more power for Legislature
The state hasn’t had this many constitutional amendments on the ballot in 40 years as Republican lawmakers seek ways to curb the power of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.
BY TOM KERTSCHER WISCONSIN WATCH
In less than two years, Republicans have put seven constitutional amendment questions on Wisconsin election ballots — including three that voters will see in the coming months.
That’s more than Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Ohio in 2023 and 2024 — combined.
There has not been this much constitutional amendment activity in Wisconsin in more than 40 years since nine amendment questions were put on the November 1982 ballot. There are five total slated for this year, including two that passed in April, two on the August primary ballot and one in November.
Wake Forest University politics professor John Dinan, author of “State Constitutional Politics: Governing by Amendment in the American States,” said constitutional amendments are commonly used in divided-government states such as Wisconsin, where Democratic Gov. Tony Evers clashes with the Republican-controlled Legislature.
Dinan said Republicans can use the amendments to avoid a veto from Evers or an unwanted ruling from the liberal-majority state Supreme Court.
“It may seem unusual to see amendments being advanced for the purpose of bypassing gubernatorial opposition or insulating policies from state court reversal because we don’t see similar amendments advanced at the federal level,” he said. “But state constitutions and state constitutional amendments have their own distinctive purposes and dynamics.”
Three ballot questions upcoming
To amend the Wisconsin constitution, lawmakers must approve identical changes in consecutive two-year legislative sessions; the amendments do not require the governor’s approval.
From there, Wisconsin voters must approve the change by majority vote in a referendum.
Two constitutional amendment questions that would remove the governor from spending decisions on federal funds are on the Aug. 13 ballot. The questions, which received the first approval from the Legislature in 2022 and the second earlier this year, ask:
1) “Delegation of appropriation power. Shall section 35 (1) of article IV of the constitution be created to provide that the legislature may not delegate its sole power to determine how moneys shall be appropriated?”
2) “Allocation of federal moneys. Shall section 35 (2) of article IV of the constitution be created to prohibit the governor from allocating any federal moneys the governor accepts on behalf of the state without the approval of the legislature by joint resolution or as provided by legislative rule?”
Under current law, the governor has authority in certain instances to accept federal funds without participation of the Legislature. Under the amendments, the governor could not allocate federal funds without approval by the Legislature. The Legislature would approve such allocations through joint resolutions or legislative rules that, unlike state statutes, do not require the governor’s approval.
Opponents of the amendments include the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Conservation Voters, the Wisconsin Democratic Party and the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign.
They say the amendments risk delaying the expenditure of federal funds issued in an emergency because the governor would have to get legislative approval to spend the money.
The ballot questions are “power grabs” and will “confuse the hell out of voters,” said Nicholas Ramos, the Democracy Campaign’s executive director and a former Democratic campaign staffer.
“It’s an arms race now where they’re doing everything to put into cement and concrete very bad public policies that they were afraid the governor would veto,” he said.
Supporters include Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce and the Badger Institute, a conservative think tank.
The Badger Institute says the state expenditure of federal funds needs legislative oversight. “Decisions about how and why billions in federal dollars were spent remain largely a mystery,” the institute said about federal COVID-19 relief money.
Republican sponsors of the amendments, Sen. Howard Marklein of Spring Green and Rep. Robert Wittke of Racine, did not reply to interview requests.
COVID money spending led to amendment ballot questions
The amendment ballot questions were spurred by Republican backlash to how Evers spent federal funds allocated during the pandemic.
A total of $5.7 billion was allocated, including $4.5 billion that could be spent at the state’s discretion. In particular, Evers has the authority to spend $2.5 billion from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
In 2021, the Legislature approved a bill, later vetoed by Evers, that would have required the governor to submit a plan for spending the money to the Legislature’s Republican-controlled budget committee for approval.
That process is similar to the state’s general budget process, in which the governor proposes a budget and the Legislature approves it.
In 2022, an audit from the nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau criticized Evers’ administration for not providing
documentation requested by auditors on what information was used to make spending decisions on the COVID money. Voters tend to approve amendment questions
Wisconsin voters have approved 150 of the 202 constitutional amendments in the state’s history, including 11 of 12 since 2000 and all five since 2020:
April 2020: More rights for crime victims, including the right to be heard at plea and parole hearings (known as Marsy’s Law). At least one police department has cited the amendment to block the release of information about a police officer who shot a suicidal suspect.
April 2023: Allowing judges to consider past convictions for violent crimes when setting bail for someone accused of a violent crime; and to set conditions meant to protect public safety when releasing someone before trial. The amendments were spurred by the November 2021 attack at the Waukesha Christmas parade committed by Darrell Brooks, whose bond in a separate felony case in Milwaukee County was reduced from $10,000 to $500.
April 2024: Banning private money to fund elections; and reaffirming a state law that says only election officials can administer elections. The impetus was Republican concerns about private election administration grants during the 2020 presidential election. Another Republican-sponsored constitutional amendment is set for the Nov. 5 general election ballot. It would reaffirm that only U.S. citizens age 18 and older may vote in Wisconsin elections:
Eligibility to vote. Shall section 1 of article III of the constitution, which deals with suffrage, be amended to provide that only a United States citizen age 18 or older who resides in an election district may vote in an election for national, state, or local office or at a statewide or local referendum?
Since 2020, 10 states have put more constitutional amendments up for a vote than Wisconsin, according to Ballotpedia. The most were in Louisiana (36), Texas (24) and Alabama (21).
EDITOR’S DESK: If you’re not scared, you should be...somebody needs to step up.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
They also ruled that some bribery is just fine, if it’s for “A Friendly” and it includes millions ($) in High Court perks like motorhomes, exotic vacations, airfare, and gifts of indoctrinating religious private school tuition, or other, you know, necessary instruments of Democracy.
This is going on RIGHT IN FRONT OF OUR FACES, just like the slow-motion coup d’état we saw on Jan. 6, 2021, they’ve planned to bring back a wannabe dictator, hellbent on winning so he doesn’t have to face justice for a literal multitude of crimes - even if it means overthrowing an election. These entitled clowns have their sights set on LGBTQ rights, marriage equality, cannabis access, birth con-
trol, library books, no-fault divorce, basic union rights, Social Security, affordable health care, public education funding and curriculum - all while adding ‘rights’ to property, companies, firearms, and the Loudest Voices of greed and corruption, who really hate paying their fair share of taxes.
If you’re not scared, you should be. These Courts have ruled that the government cannot limit pollution from a
coal plant, but they sure can force an 11-year-old to carry her crazy uncles’ felony to term, or else.
Honestly, the only people celebrating these entitled clowns’ recent court rulings are the wannabe criminals, “patriotic” traitors … and Canadian real estate agents. Somebody needs to step up and kick that damn can.
DARREN HAUCK FOR WISCONSIN WATCH
Diane Coenen, Oconomowoc city clerk, handles absentee ballots during the primary election on Feb. 16, 2021, in Oconomowoc, Wis.
AMONA SALEH / WISCONSIN WATCH
A voter casts a ballot at the Capitol Lakes polling location in Madison, Wis., on Nov. 8, 2022.
Forest trash piles up, at residents’ expense
Boats, tires and sheetrock
BY GREG MARSTEN EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
Burnett County Forest & Parks Department officials have had their hands full, lately, cleaning up trash left by extremely lazy people in the woods; Not just candy wrappers or drink bottles but huge volumes of items that are beyond just a misplaced container.
“In the last couple of years we have seen an increase in illegal dumping in the forest. Especially things that cannot be easily recycled,” Burnett County Forest & Parks Administrator Jake Nichols said. “It used to be we would get a lot of appliances as well, but now that you can get a little money for some of that metal, we do not see many of them.”
Hole-in-one by Sunsdahl
Congratulations to Bob Sunsdahl of Webster who got a hole-in-one on June 18 at Fox Run Golf Course. This was Bob’s second ace in less than two weeks! This time he was on hole 8 of the par 3 course. He used his Approach Wedge on the 110-yard shot. Nice job Bobagain!
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Recently, Burnett County workers cleaned up and piled dozens of tires and other items into a trailer for an expensive disposal. Workers have also discovered at least two old boats in the woods, which has required extensive investigation to find the responsible parties, some of which are still underway.
Nichols said the types of refuse they are finding has changed, beyond just fewer appliances.
“The majority of the things that are dumped are construc-
tion materials from remodels or reroofing. We tend to see a lot of shingles, tires, sheetrock and household trash,” Nichols said.
He recently revealed to the Natural Resources Committee that they recently discovered several very large, unusual items in the woods.
“Most recently we have had a couple of boats dumped in the forest as well. Our Recreation Officer does look into all these to try to track down the owner and hold them accountable. What those fines are, I really don’t know, I would have to ask that question as well,” Nichols revealed. “I would guess depending on the circumstance, it’s possible that there could be a number of different citations written.”
However, finding the responsible parties for the litter, trash and dumping can take long hours or research, either with VIN or serial numbers, receipts or items inadvertently left in the trash piles. But
sadly, it is not the dumper who pays for all that work.
“Most the time the responsible party cannot be located, and the county is on the hook for the expense to clean these areas up. We end up having to use staff time, equipment time as well as have to pay the dumping fees for these materials,” Nichols confirmed.
If someone is spotted dumping trash in the woods, authorities do not suggest intervening, but instead suggest you take down descriptions of the suspects, as well as license plate numbers, vehicle descriptions and more, so police and others can safely follow up.
“In the end, this illegal dumping costs our department thousands of dollars annually to clean up,” Nichols said.
CHARGES: Winquist said he has no memory of the shooting
misdemeanor charge, with the primary felony charge being Attempted First-Degree Homicide, which could land him a life sentence in state prison for the alleged shooting, if convicted.
Winquist is slated to make an initial court appearance on Wednesday, July 10, before Judge Melissia Mogen.
The charges against Winquist were filed last week by the Burnett County District Attorney’s Office and include the noted Attempted First-Degree Homicide, as well as seven felony identical charges of being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, as well as one misdemeanor count of Operating a Firearm While Intoxicated. Outside the attempted homicide charge, Winquist faces a possible sentence of 10 years in prison and up to or including a $25,000 fine on each of the seven other firearm charges, totaling over seven decades if he is convicted on all the felony counts.
According to the criminal complaint filed in Burnett County Circuit Court, the incident occurred on the evening of Friday, May 31st at Winquist’s West Marshland home.
The complaint is over 30 pages long, and details interviews with the victim, her
child who witnessed some of the tragedy, and others.
Among the noted highlights are that Winquist seemed to have little recollection of the actual shooting, and claimed he awoke from a nightmare with “something on top of him” and sought a shotgun. He is alleged to have shot his girlfriend in the head with the rifle, which was loaded with a type of “bird shot” that did not do as much damage as it could have, leaving the victim with multiple pellet wounds on the top of her head and elsewhere, which she was able to survive, and even walked around the home afterwords, unaware of how bad her injuries were.
The victim told police that Winquist had been on a sort of alcohol “bender” for several days, and that he had previous military service-related traumas, leading to occasionally violent outbursts and nightmares. She and the child witness said Winquist had been going back and forth between drinking vodka and sleeping, lately, while binging on the TV show, “The Walking Dead.”
After shooting the female victim, Winquist was apparently distraught and tried to take his own life after the shooting, but the rifle barrel proved to be too long, and his shot only grazed his forehead, which
knocked him out for a spell and left a bloody wound. But when he awoke and realized he was still alive, he attempted “to finish the job” by slamming his head into the floor, leaving blood everywhere.
The child on the scene called 911, and apparently witnessed Winquist’s attempted suicide, but saw that he survived and the child retrieved the shotgun, throwing it into the woods nearby, so he would not be the next victim. He waited for authorities in the woods, hiding from Winquist, just in case.
The female victim suffered serious wounds and was transported to a Twin Cities hospital for medical treatment, which continues still.
Winquist is being held on a $500,000 cash bond, and has his initial court appearance slated for next Wednesday, July 10th before Judge Melissia Mogen.
Winquist is a convicted felon, and he was on probation at the time of the shooting from a 2021 felony DUI 4th conviction in Polk County, where part of his sentence included three years of probation, and was unable to own firearms. His probation would have technically expired in early July, less than a month after the shooting.
We are pleased to announce that Attorney Renee T. Landgraf will be joining our firm as an Associate Attorney on July 8, 2024.
We are excited to expand our practice and will continue to provide zealous representation to new and existing clients in Northwestern Wisconsin. Attorney Landgraf will continue to accept Dean, Public Defender, and Guardian ad Litem appointments as she expands her areas of practice.
Siren’s Committee of the Whole, explained
BY BECKY STRABEL SENTINEL
The Village of Siren has held Committee-of-theWhole (CotW) meetings for the past few months to help save time and money for all involved.
According to Village Clerk Ann Peterson, even though there is a quorum, the village treats the Committee of the Whole as a committee meeting and not as a board meeting. So, most decisions made on Tuesday, June 25, must still go to the regular monthly board meeting on July 11 for final approval, just as if the recommendation were coming from one of the other standing committees.
“There may be municipalities that operate with a Committee of the Whole format that do use decisions made by the CotW as a final decision, but in our case, it’s never been done that way,” said Peterson.
The committee heard reports from Public Works Director Jim Jaskolka and Police Chief Trevor Thiex. Other agenda items included storage containers, road work, and the Clear Lake Boat Landing.
PUBLIC WORKS
Clay backfill contributed to the recent water main break at Bradley Street and State Road 35/70 intersection. On Monday, July 1, Monarch Paving replaced the blacktop.
The village received a free sampler valued at $7,000 through the state’s sewer surveillance program. The sampler checks wastewater for diseases, which is required under their Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit.
ORDINANCE
ENFORCEMENT
The police department is seeking guidance from the board concerning enforcing ordinance violations. In the past, multiple letters or warnings were issued before writing a citation. Thiex would like to see this changed and feels some ordinances need revision to help with enforcement. More discussion will occur at a future public safety committee meeting that will also work with Police Department secretary Linda Luhman on a job description for her added duties relating to ordinance enforcement.
Police coverage for the towns of Meenon and Oakland seems to be going well, as neither town has had residents make a public comment at village meetings.
ROAD WORK
The county highway department will do crack-andchip sealing for $39,300. The following roads will be affected: First Ave (State Road 70 south to terminus), Main Street (State Road 35/70 to Ellis Ave), Cemetery Road (State Road 35 east to terminus), First Avenue (Main Street to Lake Street), James Street (Fourth Ave to 3rd Ave), Lake Street (Main Street to State Road 35/70), Third Avenue (County Rd B to Bacon Street), Third Avenue (Landquist St to Anderson St), Third Avenue (Capes Street to Lofty Pines) and Capes Street (in front of the village shop).
CLEAR LAKE PARK
The village is considering using various grants to offset the costs of replacing the fishing dock at Clear Lake, which was recently removed because it was underwater. They estimate that improvements could total around $100,000. The plan would include moving the boat landing to the north side of the property, adding a fishing pier and paved walkway, and making parking lot improvements. The project would be part of the 2025 budget.
OTHER BUSINESS
Owner and developer of the online service ‘Staying Connected,’ Sara Reimann-Hill, asked the board to consider having the village listed on the app for an annual fee.
Storage containers have become more prevalent in the village, which has led to complaints about their aesthetics. This topic will be discussed at an upcoming Buildings, Grounds & Parks Committee meeting for a recommendation.
A summary of the Old Settler’s Picnic
BY RUSS HANSON
Continuing a tradition that started in 1938, folks from the upper St. Croix Valley got together for the Old Settler’s Picnic at the Cushing Community Center Sunday, June 23.
The picnic started as a reunion of pioneers who homesteaded the lands between Grantsburg and St. Croix Falls in what is known as the Sand Barrens adjacent to
the St. Croix River. They came to the virgin prairie, broke the soil, farmed it for a generation, then left as the soil wore out and dry years began, moving away seeking better farming to the east.
The original old settlers decided to get together one more time in 1938 at their old picnic grounds and cemetery where Cowan Creek flows into Trade River, about 10 miles west of Cushing. They enjoyed themselves and decided to
do it again and so it continues 86 years later.
The picnic program included Reverend Mark Peacock, recently retired minister for the Wolf Creek Methodist Church, who spoke about his years as a minister and read one of his Mangled Fairy Tales from his book of the same name.
FIREWORKS: QR codes show how the firework looks
Corporation (EDC), including EDC board president Brooke Gonzalez, board member Judie Cutler, EDC secretary Melanie Connor Johnson, and newly named EDC executive director Carley Eichman.
The ribbon-cutting event was also a chance to highlight some of the unique aspects STX Fireworks offers, as they are not just a tent or semi-trailer full of exploding stuff; there are a number of unique
celebratory items, from “gender reveal” fireworks of all price ranges, to items with political themes, birthdays and other special events, as well as a wide range of options for exotic, self-contained displays, meant to make it safer and easier for users.
In fact, many of the fireworks on sale at STX even have ‘QR codes’ that can be scanned with your phone, taking you to a video link.
“That way it shows you what it’s going to look like!” stated Tribal Communications Director, Maggie
Olson. “So you know what you’re buying.”
The STX Fireworks store was immediately busy upon opening and was likely to stay that way in the coming days, with all the excitement and out-of-state visitors for the Independence Day holiday, enough that the store has a dozen employees.
“For two weeks, we’re hoping to have four registers going all day long!” Conrad St. John said after the ribbon cutting.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
The new STX Fireworks ribbon-cutting in Danbury on June 27. Pictured, front row (L-R): Melanie Connor Johnson, EDC Secretary; Bernice Taylor, St. Croix Tribal Council; Rick Benjamin, St. Croix Tribal Council; Brooke Gonzalez, EDC President; Judie Cutler, EDC Board Member; Carley Eichman, EDC Executive Director. Back row (L-R): Chris Johnson, STX Manager; Conrad St. John, St. Croix Tribal Council; Mark Soulier, Tribal member; Todd Cutler, STX consultant.
The 80 and over crowd at the 86th year of the Old Settler’s Picnic. Front row: Maurice C., Beverly G., Shirley C., Bill L., Gene S. Back row: Marine and Mark P., Marlyne and Lyle J., Verle B., Margie M., Sharon H., Betty M., and Sena C.
Burnett unemployment rates steady
BY GREG MARSTEN EDITOR@BURNETTCOUNTYSENTINEL.COM
Unemployment rates remain at historically low levels across the state, as the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) released the latest unemployment figures for the state, counties and large municipalities, showing positive trends, almost across the board.
Burnett County’s unemployment rate dropped from 5.0% down to 4.1% between April and May, almost in line with figures
form one year ago, when the Burnett County rate was 4.0%.
None of the figures are seasonally adjusted, and in comparison to nearby counties, Burnett seems to be faring well: Douglas County has a 3.9% rate, down from 4.6%; Polk County is down to 3.7% from 4.5 in April: Barron County is at 3.2%, down from 3.9%; Sawyer County is at 3.3%, down the most for local counties form an April level of 4.7%.
Statewide figures also suggest continued economic growth, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor
Statistics figures suggesting solid job growth. In both counties and municipalities. According to the DWD, preliminary May 2024 unemployment rates decreased or stayed the same in 49 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties over the month, while the rates decreased or stayed the same in 23 counties over the year. Statewide, Burnett County is still among the counties with the highest unemployment rates, currently at 69th, which is a move up from 70th in April.
BILLBOARD: Controversy solved, until the next day
sign, like the ordinance stated.
The village also was without an active, complete slate of members on a Zoning Board of Appeals to address the issue. (More on this later.)
However, the owner had already restarted construction on the signage - placing the beams in the ground - when the question arose, and construction was halted.
The entire process and application was then reconsidered as the village worked to resolve several structural municipal issues, which led to subsequent threats of legal action toward the village.
It all appeared to be resolved last week. After over six months of deliberation, legal threats from the sign owners’ attorney - described as “very aggressive” by several people involved – it ultimately led to a variety of proposed change in the text amendments to the village sign ordinance, and with that, the sign issue seemed to be solved, just waiting for the publication of the new amendments - a week later - to make the non-complying sign legal and thus allowed to complete.
However, the sign owner did not wait for the publication nor for the law to change. The next morning, workers were on the site, completing the wedgeshaped billboard construction, fully a week before the new sign amendments would go into effect.
The extent of the sign ordinance changes are extensive, and while portions of the law were repealed, there are also items which seem to a point directly at the pending Oak Street sign, such as removing the stipulation that billboards can only be on the site of the business, and other references to “signs being built…”, but the changes were all set to take effect on July 4th, long after the firm restarted construction.
The initial problem was that the village did not have the authority to adjust the ordinance, nor did they have a standing, current Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBOA), and they had to fill several vacant appointments, as well as train the new board members before they could hear an appeal. The village also moved ahead with hiring a new Zoning Administrator, Joe Atwood shortly after the issue
emerged, who has been reviewing village codes for discrepancies, such as the sign ordinance.
Several officials with the village had initially said the discrepancy might take up to a year to address and resolve legally. But the village had been able to get the changes in place for the June 26th public hearing and subsequent special board meeting to address the sign ordinance and several other issues, including keeping shipping containers in the village, and changes affecting the village for the state’s Safe Drinking Water program.
Despite the billboard controversy, the village board had no comments either for or against changes to the sign ordinance at the June 26th hearing, which would allow the Oak Street and Hwy. 35 sign to resume construction, once the text amendment changes were made law, upon publication, July 4 - over a week after the board meeting.
But the sign owner, Ken Erickson for Outdoor Enterprises,
Siren Plan Commission approves new rental
BY BECKY STRABEL SENTINEL
If the Siren Village Board follows the conditional use permit (CUP) recommendation of their Planning Commission, which met on Wednesday, June 26, another licensed short-term rental will soon be available in the village.
Kathryn Highstrom appeared before the commission and was happy working with the village on the CUP application for the property at 7685 Clear Lake Street.
“We want the process to work. It is new for the village too,” Village President Dave Alden commented regarding short-term rentals.
had workers on the site within hours of the new text amendment changes, over a week before the changes take effect, adding more question marks to an already tense legal issue.
It was unclear if there will be legal consequences for the owner of the structure, Erickson, who appeared to jump the gun on starting back up, and whether he will be fined or forced to tear down what was already a non-complying sign - made even more out of compliance with the resumed construction.
Erickson did not return a call or a text from the Sentinel seeking comments on his actions before press time. We were hoping he could explain his side of the billboard construction issue and answer whether he knew they had to wait to resume construction until the ordinance was published.
The billboard issue is almost sure to emerge for discussion and possible action at the next Webster Village Board meeting, slated for Wednesday, July 10th at 6 p.m.
One concern was the access to Clear Lake. Commission members wanted to ensure lake courtesies were enforced for the safety of residents, tourists, and the lake itself.
“This is a conditional use and requires a license. I don’t want complaints either that would jeopardize my license,” said Highstrom.
A handful of residents also attended the meeting in support of the applicant.
Final approval will be on the July 11 village board agenda.
The state rates the rental property for up to fourteen people, but she plans to rent at forty percent capacity. She is on village water and sewer, so that aspect is not a problem.
CONTRIBUTED
Marlene and Lyle Jahn (left) were the longest married couple at the 86th year of the Old Settler’s Picnic, having their 68th wedding anniversary on the day of the picnic. Lyle was the oldest man present at 91. Verle Bergstrom (right) was the longest lived woman at the picnic at 96 years old.
GREG MARSTEN |SENTINEL Workers were back on the site of the billboards within hours of the ordinance change, resuming construction - over a week before the changes take effect.
Inside the new Public Safety Facility and Jail
Some of the new cells are designed to be added to down the line, if needed.
be “scanned” with this $200,000 machine, to find contraband.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL inmates will
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL County administrator Nate Ehalt.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL County Board chairman, Don Taylor.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
GREG MARSTEN
MURAL: 35-40 cans of paint were used
mural, admittedly one of the more challenging, due to the texture and the sunbaked nature of the terra cotta-like brick.
“It (the wall) ate the paint a lot!” the artist said with a nod. “It’s all about the prep.”
Rose began his work last Tuesday with priming, and then worked late into the night until 1 a.m., using a projector to show his hand drawn image on the wall, which he then used a collapsing ladder to outline on the huge wall, which is over 12-feet tall and over 40 feet long, with a door near the middle. The door is now part of the scene, and nearly invisible.
He then worked Wednesday and Thursday, filling it in with the spray paint, done by hand over the more than four gallons of primer.
Taylor had a helper for much of his work process, but no ordinary assistant: Taylor’s 90-yearold grandfather, John Donlin of Siren, was able to assist Taylor for some of his work, while keeping him company, as well.
“He’s also a great military Vet, and he’s really enthused about it!” Taylor said, as the mural depicts WWII ace Richard Bong, of Maple, Wisconsin - where Taylor resides. Bong is among the most noted fighter aces in history, recording at least 40 enemy aircraft kills over his storied career. The county got permission to use Bong’s image on the mural, as well as for the very-rare Howard aircrafts, of which just a dozen are airworthy, worldwide.
The final design of the mural changed a few times, as Major Bongs’ visage was added after approval, and the wording was changed on the
upper left to say ‘Burnett County Airfield.’ Otherwise, the final collage layout is very similar to Taylor’s original design, which county officials approved just a few days prior to him starting the work.
After all the prep, priming and late-night projector work to outline the mural, Taylor worked just a couple days to complete the work, then applying clear coat to it with rollers by the end of the week. He figured it took about 35-40 cans of spray paint in total, on top of the four gallons of primer, and several gallons of clear coat to get the final product.
Taylor wears a portable breathing apparatus mask, at times, to knock down the paint that seems to wisp out, but he said it gets so covered on spray, it’s often hard to
see after painting for a spell.
While it’s over 40 feet long, the Airfield mural is nowhere near the largest of his creations; He recalled one he painted in Biloxi, Mississippi, that was two-and-a-half stories tall and over six-stories wide.
“That one took me about four days to complete, with all the prep,” Rose said with a nod, alluding back to the strange texture of the Airfield wall. “This one, though, I had to hit it at three angles, to not have patches.”
Yes, the one big challenge for Taylor was the surface of the Airfield Terminal wall, which he found “a little surprising” in that it was a sort of textured brick terra cotta, with lots of little edges to cover, forcing him to spray each color up to three times on each surface, to fully get the depth required.
“With the clear coat, it should last ten-to-fifteen years, pretty easy,” Taylor said, even with the sun shining daily on the colorful scene.
Taylor Rose is the featured digital artist at Diverging Rose Designs, and he has created well over 100 large murals of all flavors and sizes. His work can be found on Instagram.com. The Burnett Airfield piece is his latest featured project.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
Taylor Rose used regular old spray paint to make his magic on the Burnett County Airfield Terminal last week.
GREG MARSTEN | SENTINEL
Law library name change stirs controversy
The switch from conservative to liberal rule on the Wisconsin Supreme Court is still being felt. The latest episode: a renaming of the State Law Library.
Yes, even that is steeped in political controversy.
In mid-June, around Wisconsin Women Lawyers Day, the liberal majority announced the renaming of the State Law Library after the first female lawyer in Wisconsin history. That means the removal of former conservative Justice David Prosser’s name in the process.
Liberal members of the court praised Lavinia Goodell as a trailblazer, with Justice Ann Walsh Bradley saying renaming the library is “an opportunity to recognize her legacy and inspire the next generation of women in Wisconsin.”
But conservative Justice Rebecca Bradley on X called the move “another petty and vindictive maneuver” by the court’s liberal majority. And fellow conservative Justice Pat Roggensack argued the court may not have statuto-
BAILEY: “Ms.
FROM PAGE 2
“Other than her lack of denial, Ms. Bailey has not admitted what she did, she has not taken accountability for her actions, she has shown no remorse,” Wood-Webster said.
“In fact, she told the bailiff after she was convicted that she can now retire and not worry about it. This is first-degree murder … Ms. Bailey should not be eligible for parole. She committed the highest offense – first-degree murder … She shot Yvonne Menke in cold blood and left her to die in a cold, dark stairwell alone.
Ms. Bailey will not suffer that same fate, but when it does come time for her death, it should be in prison. So, your honor, if Ms. Bailey reaches 101 and is able to appeal to the parole board, the state recommends that life should be life.”
Menke’s daughter, Julie Connors spoke for herself and also read a short statement from Sue Raska.
“Dec. 12, 1985. The day my life changed forever. On this day the world and our family lost an amazingly kind, compassionate, loving person. On Dec. 12, 1985, my mom was murdered. You waited in the dark stairwell to maliciously murder my mom. You sentenced us to a life of pain, sadness, and hurt. You sentenced me to a life of fear and guilt … the fear of goodbyes and losing someone you loved. Fear of the dark. Fear of trusting someone … You conned me into believing you were a friend … you coaxed me into telling you the information you needed so you could fulfill your evil plan to execute my mom.”
Connors told of trying to hear her “beloved mom’s missed voice, I can’t. Instead,
Capitol Report
ry authority to rename the library.
The court’s then-conservative majority in 2016 named the library after Prosser.
This followed allegations by Ann Walsh Bradley in 2011 that he had choked her during a heated argument over the court’s ruling in Act 10, the law that stripped most public employees of collective bargaining powers.
A special prosecutor declined to press charges, and a complaint the Judicial Commission filed against Prosser went nowhere after justices recused themselves from the case because they were witnesses to the incident.
Roggensack told WisPolitics when she led the court as chief justice, she got permission from GOP Gov. Scott Walker and the Legislature to change the name of the State Law Library in Prosser’s honor, which she argued is required.
“If they want to name the Supreme Court Law Library, which is within their chambers, I guess they can call it whatever they want,” Roggensack said.
“But this is not the Supreme Court’s law library, it is the State Law Library.”
However, the court’s public information office told WisPolitics the court was given full authority over the library in 1977, as noted on a web page about the library’s history.
“It does not need approval from the Governor or Legislature for a name change,” a spokesperson said.
Conservative Chief Justice Annette Ziegler in a statement to WisPolitics said the decision dishonored Prosser.
“There are many ways to honor Lavinia Goodell, which is entirely appropriate, without dishonoring a lifelong public servant like Justice David Prosser,” Ziegler said.
Liberal justices in statements announcing the name change praised Goodell as an example for women and the state, making no direct mentions of Prosser.
Justice Janet Protasiewicz, the newest member of the court whose election put liberals in charge, said the change is “the right thing to do.”
“When people enter this important space, they need to know they are somewhere named after a leader who inspired others to do good and do what is right,” Protasiewicz said.
According to the release, Goodell was admitted to practice law in Wisconsin in 1874, but was met with resistance. The state Supreme Court in 1875 unanimously denied her the right to represent a client before the court, which led her to draft legislation guaranteeing women the right to practice law in the state. Gov. Harrison Ludington signed the legislation into law two years later.
The Capitol Report is written by editorial staff at WisPolitics.com, a nonpartisan, Madison-based news service that specializes in coverage of government and politics and is distributed for publication by members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. Copyright © WisPolitics.com.
Bailey stalked Yvonne ... planned her crime ... and got
all I hear is your voice on the phone like on Dec. 11 … I see you in the alley like that morning when I … close my eyes. All I often see is you … a person who thought it important to take my mom from us ...”
She went further: “On Dec. 12, 1985, you not only took mom’s life, but you took ours as well. We prayed that someday you would get what you deserved. You sentenced her kids, her family and justice was not served … today, you too will be sentenced like our life has been for 38 years … I pray now that you wear handcuffs so that I can break the handcuffs of guilt that you placed on me. I pray mom can rest in peace knowing that today is the day of your sentencing, the day your life will change just like ours did. Today, our life changes. You will get less than you deserve …”
In addition to hearing from Connors and Raska’s statement, the court also heard from James Menke Jr., who admitted that if not for his family, he wouldn’t be providing testimony.
“I was 16 at the time of her death. I don’t think anyone can understand that,” he said. “I’m doing this for my family more than me, because I’m done with it.”
He went on to thank several others for helping him along the way. “I was very self-destructive,” he said. “Everybody knew, but they said there was no way she was going to get it. It finally happened. She got to live her life, where my mom did not. My wife never got to meet my mom. My two sons … never got to meet their grandma. To me, this is not justice. She got to lead her life. We didn’t live ours. But it’s as
close as it’s going to get. So, now we can finally put this behind us. But [Bailey] should never be let out again.”
The defense didn’t provide any statements, most notably from Bailey.
Defense attorney Travis Satorius said, “This was a unique case and continues today … The reality is that this is a formality … what we are discussing is the eligibility to have her parole looked at in 20 years when she is 101 years old … perhaps the bigger point today is whether there is a moment where Mary is to give an allocution as to what happened. I can answer that … there will not be an allocution, and while there may be disappointment, perhaps anger, at that decision, she makes that choice on advice of counsel … there will be an appeal in this case, so for her rights, it makes sense for her to remain silent … until that legal issue is decided.”
Satorius spoke a bit about the goal of the trial being that of closure.
“To that … if Mary were to give an allocution … we asked Mary about that … because what people want is to hear what happened … to that scenario … she said no … she said, ‘I can’t make something up that I didn’t do. I can’t tell a story.’ That’s why we went to trial.”
Satorius also pointed to Bailey’s decision to continue living in the community for several decades, even with community fingers being pointed toward her.
“For all the reasons outlined we understand what the sentence is that needs to be imposed today.”
When the judge specifically asked Bailey if she wished to
provide a statement, she said, ‘no, your honor.’
Judge Nordstrand then began his presentation about whether he had any discretion in making a decision.
“In this case, I have none,” he said.
“It now falls to the court to hand down a sentence for Ms. Bailey for being convicted by a jury here in Polk County1st-degree murder, a Class A felony.
But before pronouncing the sentence, Nordstrand described a turning point in the trial for him came when they court escorted the jury to the site of the murder in St. Croix Falls.
“It was my first time of taking a jury anywhere and in fact it’s not quite common,” he said.
“As you approached this place downtown St. Croix Falls … you go up a narrow stairs to the apartment … from that vantage point you entered a small bathroom where her daughter looked out the window to see somebody running away … from the crime scene on that fateful day in 1985. So, you got the sense of that … You essentially stood in the shoes of the victims who spoke here today. Leaving there and going down the stairs, you are now taking the path that Ms. Menke took on that fateful day, going down narrow stairs … it was dark and cold and she headed down the exterior stairway to the street and the parking lot … When she went down the stairs and you got to the midpoint where she was met by somebody she barely knew … one gunshot to the neck … Ms. Menke falls there on the landing, and then two more shots to her head. I think it needs to be said how bru-
away with it...”
tal, how horrific this crime was. And cold-blooded … Just standing there in that parking lot … one got a sense of the loneliness, the aloneness that Ms. Menke must have experienced.”
Nordstrand continued: “Ms. Bailey stalked Yvonne, she investigated her daily routines to find out how this crime could be committed, she planned her crime and carried it out with brutal efficiency. And she got away with it for 38 years. Ms. Bailey was mostly emotionless in court. You see her here today pretty much like we saw her for all eight days of the trial. After 38 years of freedom and no accountability for her crime, her day of reckoning has arrived.”
If he did have discretion in his sentencing decision, Nordstrand was to the point: “I was thinking on the way up today that if I did have any discretion, in regards to eligibility for parole, a number that would come to mind in terms of eligibility would be 38 years.”
With that, Norstrand sealed Bailey’s fate by sentencing her to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 20 years. Bailey would be 101 years old at that time.
Following the pronouncement, Nordstrom concluded: “In a matter of days she will be transported to the Wisconsin State Prison System where she will likely spend the rest of her life. And that is as it should be. We will leave it to time, the parole board, and the advocates for Ms. Bailey and the advocates from the state on behalf of the victims.”
Defense attorney Travis Satorius said the case will be appealed.
Hey! Look at that! You never know what you’ll see in the sky, on the shore and even in the sand when you go to the seashore. What you see may depend on whether the tide is going out or coming in. Study the area where the land meets the sea. Is it rocky with waves crashing or is it a long stretch of white sand peacefully meeting the water? You might watch little crabs hiding and scurrying in the rocky areas. Different kinds of shells might be easier to find along sandy stretches. It’s fun to find driftwood too!
Read the clues to fill in our seashore and ocean crossword puzzle:
1. five vast ________ link across the planet, covering about 71% of Earth’s surface 2. tidal pools are home to many ________ things: seaweed, seastars, snails, crabs, etc.
3. tide ________ are rocky; some may be seen separately at low tide
4. a _________ beach is one that is natural, untouched by people
5. energy from strong winds on the surface of the ocean causes ________ to form
6. ________ have explored only about 5% of the world’s oceans
7. the ocean is mostly made up of ________, but there are many elements: sodium, chlorine, magnesium, calcium and more 8. tides are the result of the gravity of the ________ pushing and pulling the ocean 9. the ocean is Earth’s largest habitat, with _______ such as whales, sharks, sea lions
10. coastline; where the land meets the ocean
11. a ________ resort is a place built for people to have fun and be active
12. grasses and bushes anchor the sand __________ and keep the beach stable
13. many kinds of ________ live by the ocean: seagulls, sandpipers, albatrosses
What Is Seen at the Seashore?
clams sand foam rocks coral algae seagull snails jellies pelican tide pool sea stars seaweed seahorse lobsters mussels mollusks driftwood beach plums sandpiper sand dollars fiddler crabs
What have you seen at the seashore?
At Sea and Shore
14. beaches change shape due to constant erosion by the steady force of coastal ________ and crashing waves
15. _________ is made of fine grains of earth and rocks worn down by the wind
People bring shovels and pails to dig and collect items from the seashore. Find and circle the items below that you can see at the shore.
If you help the cranky crab find his way to the cheerful clam party, he’ll soon be ‘as happy as a clam!’ C
S
SEE NEWSPAPER FUN ANSWERS, PAGE 17
Fun By The Numbers
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love Sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your Sudoku savvy to the test!
Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
Party I feel so cranky.
Donna Jean Casey
Donna Jean Casey, age 73, passed away peacefully at her home in the Town of Sterling with her loved ones by her side on June 20, 2024, after a courageous one-year battle with stage four pancreatic cancer.
She was born on July 10, 1950, in Menomonie to Ervin and Irene (Smith) Schmidt. She lost her biological mother, Irene, to a fatal car accident in 1964 when she was 14 years old, and her father later remarried in 1978 to Else Braun.
Donna met the love of her life on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, 1968, in Clayton at a bar called Richardson's Bar. Both she and her future husband (Raymond Casey) were at the bar for a New Year's celebration, and when she spotted him across the way, she knew she had to make herself known. When it struck midnight declaring it the New Year of 1969, she made her way up to him and as she told it, "I just gave him a big kiss, and the rest is history." She had him hooked from that point. They later married in August of that same year. They ended up having two boys together, Chad and Jeremy, while living in New Richmond.
Donna had attended high school in Boyceville and ended up dropping out of school two weeks before her graduation. Even though she didn’t graduate high school, she still pursued many odd jobs throughout her years such as a few grocery stores and restaurants, working at a factory, and cleaning houses. She
• June 25, Benjamin G. Lamprecht, 44, was arrested for operating while intoxicated and operating with prohibited alcohol concentration- 1st offense.
• June 25, Katrina A. Boyle, 35, was arrested for failure to appear.
• June 26, Jeremiah J. Bonse, 38, was arrested for battery simple assault, disorderly conduct, domestic abuse enhancer, felony bail jumping and battery to person 62 YOA+.
• June 26, Randi M. Bearheart, 32, was arrested for operating while intoxicated- 3rd offense.
• June 27, Emma L. Crosby, 25, was arrested for contempt of court.
• June 27, Gerald R. Jackson, 33, was arrested for a probation violation, retail theft- intentionally take, theft movable property and operating a motor vehicle while revoked.
• June 29, Glen E. Price, 46, was arrested for contempt of court.
• June 29, Vincent E. Stennet, 58, was arrested for misdemeanor bail jumping and theft movable property.
• June 29, Ryan L. Kollwitz, 46, was arrested for failure to appear.
• June 30, Christopher W. Honeysett, 31, was arrested for operating while intoxicated.
• June 30, Ashley M. Oiyotte, 21, was arrested for domestic abuse enhancer and battery simple assault.
• June 30, Jacob A. Oiyotte, 24, was arrested for a probation violation.
• Jordan D. Larson, 24, was arrested for operating while intoxicated- 1st offense.
Reports from police and sheriff agencies are simply arrest reports. At press time, no charges have been filed.
June 23 – June
29
Total incidents reported: 13
Lost property: 1
Medical emergency: 1
Traffic stop: 11
even worked for a while with her husband and son at the Frederic Bakery, where she enjoyed creating baked goods. However, her most cherished role was being a dedicated homemaker and spending quality time with her children and grandchildren. Baking brought Donna immense joy, and she passed down her love for it to her granddaughter as they always baked together as she grew up. Her kitchen was always filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods, which she thoroughly enjoyed sampling herself. Anytime she made something for one of her kids or grandkids to take home, you wouldn't be surprised to get home, open it, and see that at least one little bit was taken out of it because she, "Had to sample it to make sure it tasted okay," or she would say, "I don't know, the mice must have gotten to it."
When she wasn't baking, she enjoyed reading a good mystery book and watching her birds at the many bird feeders she had placed throughout their yard. However, the thing she probably enjoyed most was seeing and spending time with her grandchildren; having sleepovers with them, playing board and card games (letting them win), watching movies, going to their ball games, baking, listening to her grandson’s homemade concerts, and much more. She would never turn down spending time with them.
Donna was a very warm-hearted, kind, and loving person who remained strong throughout her battle with cancer, and even in the end, she had found ways to smile and remain strong. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents; stepmother; brother Eugene Schmidt; and grandson Taylor Casey.
KWONG: Mystery tools?
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
off, with all the flames and thunder it creates to thrust that ship to the orbit? Just how they could carve all those images on boulders in such details and precision? What tools did they use? And where did they get them from? In one of the ancient tombs, scientists found a small object that looked like a small plane, which they named ‘Project Kimbaya’. One fellow took that object and rebuilt it to a much larger scale. When they put the modern ‘Project Kimbaya’ to test, they were stunned to find that not only it could fly, but it could stay in the air along with the airflow! No engine and no fuel, just how can it be possible? And that was created thousands of years ago.
Maybe we can borrow ET’s phone and call someone from space to find out when they are coming back for a visit. Long distance in space will require one or two light seconds to connect (remember how many zeros are in one light year?) Can we wait that long?
She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Raymond Casey; her two sons Chad (Terri) Casey and Jeremy (Sonya) Casey; her sister Darlene (Malcolm) Schutz; her brother LeRoy Schmidt; her five grandchildren – Cody, Kayla, Tanner, Austin (Makenna), Kadin; and two great grandchildren, Jaxon and Knox. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and family friends.
The family would like to thank Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home for helping with the arrangements. They would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Adoray for helping to keep her comfortable at the end of her battle, the Cancer Center of Western Wisconsin in Frederic for always taking good care of Donna while she was there for her treatments, and her oncology team at St. Croix Health in Frederic.
A celebration of life will be held later this month for family and friends to remember Donna.
James Arthur Gilbertson
James “Gil” Arthur Gilbertson, age 72, a resident of Grantsburg passed away on June 27, 2024, at the North Memorial Hospital in Robbinsdale, Minn.
The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 5, 2024, at 3 p.m. (visitation from 2-3 p.m.) at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Grantsburg with Pastor Emory Johnson officiating with Military Honors following the service. A luncheon will follow at T-Dawgs Bar & Grill.
Arrangements were entrusted to Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.swedberg-taylor.com.
June
23 – June 29
Total incidents reported: 5
Car vs deer: 1
Harassment: 1
Suspicious person: 2
Theft/shoplift: 1
PUBLIC NOTICES
STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT
BURNETT COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Grace C. Nelson Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 24 PR 36
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:
1. An application for informal administration was filed.
2. The decedent, with date of birth January 14, 1923 and date of death September 4, 2023, was domiciled in Burnett County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 7790 65th St NW, Byron, MN 55920.
3. All interested persons waived notice.
4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is September 9, 2024.
5. A claim may be filed at the Burnett County Courthouse, Siren, Wisconsin, Room 214.
/s/ Jacqueline O. Baasch
Probate Registrar June 14, 2024
Knute Norenberg, Attorney at Law PO Box 507 Grantsburg, WI 54840
715-463-5365
Bar Number 1125461
WNAXLP (July 3, 10, 17)
STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT
BURNETT COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Shirley A. Erickson Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 24 PR 38 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:
1. An application for informal administration was filed.
2. The decedent, with date of birth August 28, 1938 and date of death May 13, 2024, was domiciled in Greensburg County, State of Pennsylvania, with a mailing address of 132 Nature Park Road, Greensburg, PA 15601.
3. All interested persons waived notice.
4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is September 23, 2024.
5. A claim may be filed at the Burnett County Courthouse, Siren, Wisconsin, Room 214.
/s/ Jacqueline O. Baasch
Probate Registrar June 25, 2024
Knute Norenberg, Attorney at Law PO Box 507 Grantsburg, WI 54840 715-463-5365 Bar Number 1125461 WNAXLP (July 3, 10, 17)
LEGAL NOTICE
Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit corporation, will be submitting a pre-application to USDA Rural Development for a Housing Preservation Grant to aid low and very low income households in an eight county area. As required, WRHFH is making its proposed Statement of Activities available for public review for fifteen (15) days from today's date. Any person wishing to make any comments may review the above mentioned Statement of Activities and make any comments or may review a copy of said activities at the WRHFH office located at 1357 N River Street, Spooner, WI 54801.
WNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
PLAN COMMISSION: JULY 8, 2024 5:00 P.M.
VILLAGE BOARD: JULY 15, 2024 6:10 P.M.
Take notice that the Plan Commission and the Village Board of the Village of Grantsburg will meet to consider the following additions and changes to the Village of Grantsburg Code of Ordinances: 1. Add Tattoo parlors as conditional use in both B-1 and in B-2 zoning districts. 2) Add UDC Certified Building Inspector as the required inspectors of new one- and two-family dwellings. 3) Add any new mobile home in the Village cannot be more than 15 years old. 4) Replace manufactured homes allowed in single family zoning districts R-1, R-2 and R-5 to modular homes allowed.
The Plan Commission will hold a Public Hearing at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 8, 2024, at 316 S. Brad Street, Grantsburg WI in the Village Board Room to hear all interested persons, their agents or attorneys and will make a recommendation to the Village Board thereafter.
The Village Board will hold a Public Hearing at 6:10 p.m. on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 316 S. Brad Street, Grantsburg, WI in the Village Board Room to hear all interested persons, their agents or attorneys and will make a decision thereafter.
For additional information please contact Sheila Meyer, Village Clerk/Treasurer, at 316 S. Brad Street. Phone: 715-463-2405
Dated this 21st day of June 2024. Sheila Meyer, Clerk/Treasurer
STATE
OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT
BURNETT COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF NAME CHANGE OF Dakotah Marie Johnson By (Petitioner) Dakotah Marie Johnson
Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing Case No. 24CV71
NOTICE IS GIVEN:
A Petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above:
From: Dakotah Marie Johnson
To: Dakotah Marie Iona Burkman
Birth Certificate: Dakotah Marie Johnson
IT IS ORDERED:
This Petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Burnett County, State of Wisconsin before Honorable Melissia Mogen at the Burnett County Circuit Court, 7410 County Rd K, Rm 220, Siren, WI 54872 on July 22, 2024 at 3:00 p.m.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Burnett County Sentinel, a newspaper published in Burnett County, State of Wisconsin.
BY THE COURT: /s/ Melissia R. Mogen Circuit Court Judge June 12, 2024
WNAXLP
(June 19, 26, July 3)
STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT
BURNETT COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF NAME
CHANGE OF
Michelle Annette Weaver
By (Petitioner) Michelle
Annette Weaver
Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing Case No. 24CV75
NOTICE IS GIVEN:
A Petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above:
From: Michelle Annette
Weaver To: Michelle Annette Tatro
Birth Certificate: Michelle
Annette Tatro
IT IS ORDERED:
This Petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Burnett County, State of Wisconsin before Honorable Melissia Mogen at 7410 County Rd K, Rm 220, Siren, WI 54872 on July 22, 2024 at 3:15 p.m.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED:
Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Burnett County Sentinel, a newspaper published in Burnett County, State of Wisconsin.
BY THE COURT: /s/ Melissia R. Mogen Circuit Court Judge June 18, 2024
WNAXLP (June 26, July 3, 10)
STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT
BURNETT COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF NAME CHANGE OF Leah Maree Janssen
By (Petitioner) Leah Maree Janssen
Notice and Order for Name Change Hearing Case No. 24CV70
NOTICE IS GIVEN:
A Petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above:
From: Leah Maree Janssen
To: Leah Maree Huser
Birth Certificate: Leah Maree Huser
IT IS ORDERED:
This Petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Burnett County, State of Wisconsin before Honorable Melissia Mogen at the Burnett County Circuit Court, 7410 County Rd K, Siren, WI 54872 on July 22, 2024 at 1:30 p.m.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED:
Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Burnett County Sentinel, a newspaper published in Burnett County, State of Wisconsin.
BY THE COURT: /s/ Melissia R. Mogen Circuit Court Judge June 11, 2024 WNAXLP (June 19, 26, July 3)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice of Public Hearing, State of Wisconsin, County of Burnett, Monday, August 5, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the Burnett County Government Center in Room 165, Town of Meenon, Siren, Wisconsin, regarding the following: 1. VARIANCE #VAR-24-16: GREEN
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of
VILLAGE OF WEBSTER CHANGE IN ORDINANCE
The following ordinance amendments has been approved by the Village Board on June 26, 2024. Chapter 298 - Article VII Signs: Ordinance 298-52 through Ordinance 298-56. Chapter 298 – Article II General Provisions: Ordinance 298-13(G). Chapter 298 – Article XIV Definitions: Ordinance 298-87(B). The full ordinances can be viewed at the clerk’s office located at the Village of Webster, 7461 Main Street West, Webster. This is effective upon the date after publication.
Signed by: Bill Summer, Village President and Debra Doriott-Kuhnly, Village Clerk/Treasurer
Date adopted: June 26, 2024
Date published: July 3, 2024
Effective Date: July 4, 2024
Trade Lake, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that Richard and Carly Green have made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To construct a new garage at a reduced road setback and at a reduced side setback; at 21994 Spirit Lake Access, in the RR-3 zoning district, parcel in Government Lot 1, Section 12, T37N, R18W.
2. VARIANCE #VAR-24-17: PUTZ
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of Trade Lake, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that Ron and Shelley Putz have made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To leave a pole shed that was constructed without a land use permit which does not meet the wetland setback; at 21930 Spirit Lake Access, in the RR-3 zoning district, Lot 1 CSM Vol. 23 Pg. 4, in Government Lot 1, Section 12, T37N, R18W.
3. VARIANCE #VAR-24-18: VOIGT & ADAM
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of Webb Lake, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that Dan Voigt and Lesley Adam have made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To expand the existing non-conforming cabin/dwelling, which is already within the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) setback area, to be closer to the lake; at 30164 N Des Moines Lake Rd, on Long Lake, in the RR-1 zoning district, the West 200 feet of Government Lot 3, Section 28 T41N, R14W.
4. VARIANCE #VAR-24-19: SEYMOUR
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of Trade Lake, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that Chuck Seymour has made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To leave a patio that was constructed without a land use permit which does not meet the setback to the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of Spirit Creek; at 22143 Spirit Lake Rd E, in the RR-1 zon-
ing district, Lot 1 CSM Vol. 1 Pg. 18 and a parcel all in Government Lot 3, Section 2, T37N, R18W. 5. VARIANCE #VAR-24-20: KRAGE & FLOOD
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of Jackson, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that David Krage has made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To leave a patio and retaining walls that were constructed without a land use permit which do not meet the setback from the Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) of North Sand Lake, at 3579 S Peninsula Rd, in the RR-1 zoning district, Lot 1 CSM Vol. 1 Pg. 106, Section 36, T40N, R15W. 6. VARIANCE #VAR-24-21: JENSEN
Public notice is hereby given to all persons in the Town of Lafollette, Burnett County, Wisconsin, that Jane Jensen has made an application relative to a proposal to vary the terms of the Burnett County Land Use and Shoreland Protection Code of Ordinances as follows: To leave a patio that was constructed without a land use permit which does not meet the wetland setback, and to construct a screen porch at a reduced wetland setback, at 24750 Sand Lake Shores Trl, in the RR-1 zoning district, Lot 7 Sand Lake Shores, Section 4, T38N, R15W.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THIS MEETING: Attendees wishing to make public comment, MUST attend in-person and will have a three-minute time limit. If you wish to view/listen to the live video stream only and NOT provide public comment you will need to go to: https://www.youtube. com/channel/UC_ZMn5LoFDJfHuqWGu7QEPQ. You will NOT be able to make public comment using this method. Written comments can be mailed to the Burnett County Land Services Department, 7410 County Rd. K #120, Siren, WI 54872 or sent via email to landservices@burnettcountywi.gov. Board of Adjustment, Siren WI
Dated this 21st day of June, 2024 WNAXLP (June 26, July 3)
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, 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 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 800-669-9777. The toll free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 800-927-9275.
WNAXLP
WNAXLP
BUSINESS MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF GRANTSBURG
MINUTES FROM JUNE 10, 2024
President Dave Dahlberg called the meeting to order. Present: Dave Dahlberg, Renae Rombach, Jason Burkman, Brian Handy, Peter Denn, Liz Shultz, and Colleen Lade. Absent: none.
Agenda Revisions: None.
Appearances: None.
Motion Shultz/Lade to approve the School Board minutes from May 13, 2024. Motion carried 7-0.
Received Reports
• GES Principal Elizabeth Moritz presented the AGR End-of-Year report. The Achievement Gap Reduction program replaced the SAGE (Student Achievement Guarantee in Education) program of past years.
• Principal Moritz and Renae Wright, GES Social Worker, presented the PTHV (Parent Teacher Home Visits) program to the Board.
• GMS Principal Kris Wallace presented a future remodel plan for GMS and requested the Board’s feedback. This plan proposes a grades 4-5 intermediate and grades 6-8 middle school sections.
• The Transportation Committee plans on meeting July 9, July 11 and if needed, July 29 at 5 PM in the GHS Library. July 11 and potentially July 29 would be with contractors.
Notice is hereby given that the following described tracts of land and village lots, situated in Burnett County, State of Wisconsin, were included in the Tax Certificate issued to Burnett County on the 1st day of September 2022, for the delinquent taxes of 2021 and remain unredeemed in the
• The Policy Committee will meet on June 26, 2024 at 7:00 am in the GHS Conference Room.
Consent Items
Motion Dahlberg/Rombach to approve the modifications to the Food Services Plan as presented by Lara Lerud, Food Service Director, including offerings of a sandwich bar and choice of a second entrée. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Handy/Rombach to approve the 2024 overnight Summer Football UMD Camp trip and the 2024 overnight Summer Cross Country Ox Lake Camp trip and itineraries as presented. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Rombach/Lade to approve new iForward open enrollment applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Rombach/Burkman to approve the new brick and mortar open enrollment applications for the 2024-2025 school year. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Dahlberg/Rombach to approve the hiring of Maria Hanson, GMS ELA Teacher; Mari Harger, iForward Math Teacher, PT; Valerie Green, iForward English Teacher, PT; Kyle Ewing, iForward PE/Health Teacher, PT; and Karen Mason, iForward Business Teacher, PT. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Rombach/Burkman to accept the resignations of Anna Westaby, iForward Teacher; Stephanie Berkholtz, GHS Teacher; and Lynn Slater, GSD Food Services. Motion carried 7-0.
Fiscal Report/Receipts Report: May 2024. Motion Rombach/Burkman to approve the June 2024 vouchers for
BURNETT COUNTY TAX DEED NOTICE
Burnett County Treasurer’s Office. Now therefore, if these tracts of land and village lots are not redeemed on or before the 31st day of December 2024, these tracts of land and village lots will be conveyed to the Burnett County pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 75.
payment. Specific check numbers are: #32330, #89451#89738, #21175 - #21190.
Motion carried 7-0. Specific expenditures per fund: Fund 10 (General) = $ 376,111.91
Fund 21 (Scholarship) = $ 499.97 Fund 27 (Special Education) = $ 4,827.52 Fund 50 (Food Service) = $ 16,140.17 Fund 60 (All School Fund) = $ 5,777.84
Fund 80 (Community Ed) = $ 70.98 $ 403,428.39
President Dahlberg announced the upcoming closed session. Motion Lade/Rombach to convene in Closed Session per Wisconsin Statutes 19.85 (1) (c) for the purpose of discussion of wages and benefits of brick and mortar teachers 2024-2025 contract and support staff for the 2024-2025 over which the School Board has jurisdiction and exercises responsibility and (f) for early graduation requests that consider financial, medical, social or personal histories or disciplinary data of specific persons which, if discussed in public, would be likely to have a substantial adverse effect upon the reputation of any person. Motion carried 7-0 by roll call vote: Dahlberg-yea, Handy-yea, Rombach-yea, Shultz-yea, Burkman-yea, Denn-yea and Lade-yea.
Motion Rombach/Dahlberg to reconvene in Open Session. Motion carried 7-0.
Motion Rombach/Handy to adjourn. Motion carried 7-0. WNALXP
(July 3)
Interest is computed to the last day of redemption.
Dated: June 28th, 2024
Bobbi Jo Wickman, Burnett County Treasurer WNAXLP (July 3, 10)
S:11 T:38 R:19W LOT 2 CSM V20 P215(#370934) (NE SE)MAP#3944 KEVIN & SHARON DANSON
:17 T:38 R:19W S 46 RDS OF SW NW EX W 20 RDS
A FREITAG
S:18 T:38 R:19W N 1/2 SE 1/4 SE NE (W/ESMT #369271) NICOLAS A CHRISTENSON
S:30 T:38 R:19W NW SE EX 990’ GENE R EDIN REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST
S:34 T:38 R:19W NE NW EX N 6 RDS OF W 54 RDS & EX S 330’
E 8 RDS, TH S 4 RDS TO POB. KIMBERLY JOHNSON 4877 39.800Ac
S:35 T:38 R:20W NE SW (SUBJ TO ESMNT 632/543) RYAN M LAVENTURE
S:15 T:38 R:19W WILDLIFE ESTATES LOT 1 BLK 2
APPLICATION FOR LICENSE
Application for a one year Class “A” Retailers License for the Sale of Beer (s. 125.25, Wis. Stats.) has been made to the Town Board, Town of Grantsburg, Burnett County, Wisconsin. The undersigned:
Wild River Outfitters
BethAnn Anderson, Agent 15177 State Road 70
Grantsburg WI 54840
Hereby makes application for Class “A” Beer License to be used from July 18th, 2024, to June 30, 2025 at the place of business located at 15177 State Road 70, Grantsburg, Burnett County, Wisconsin.
Dated: June 26, 2024
Toni Carter, Deputy Clerk/Treasurer
Town of Grantsburg, Burnett County, Wisconsin
T:40 R:14W
BRITT
S:17 T:40 R:14W LOT 5 CSM#3444 V17 V60 (GOV LOTS 5 & 6)#323039
PAMELA BRITT CRUSING 18129
S:17 T:40 R:14W LOT 6 CSM#3444 V17 P60 (GOV
M LOVDAL 18141 21.640Ac $241.93
S:17 T:40 R:14W SW SE EX W 800’ OF S 1000’ DONN M LOVDAL 18142 40.000Ac $1,220.40
S:05 T:38 R:16W GOV LOT 9 EX HWY 626/595 (LIFE ESTATE TO
S:05 T:38 R:16W OUTLOT 1 CSM V 13 P 86 (GOV LOT 10) EX HWY MICHAEL J MCKEEHEN
RICHARD & REBECCA NASH 19938 0.230Ac
S:07 T:38 R:16W PCL GOV LTS 5 & 6 EX 459/630
JEFFREY A EIBNER 20256 4.070Ac
S:16 T:38 R:16W LOT 3 CSM V16 P211(315842) (GOV LOT 2 & 3 & SE NE)
MAP#3384
DARWIN & CHERYL RADKE 20328 9.730Ac
$65.83
$1,459.51
$1,377.45
S:18 T:38 R:16W W 300’ OF N 1320’ FRL W1/2 NW EX HWY DESC 479/596 TOWN OF SWISS 2021 Owner Names ID # Acres Amt Due
Description
MICHAEL J & CATHERINE M HACKL 33435 0.100Ac $1.62
S:33 T:41 R:16W PCL GL 1 DESC IN V233 P462 EXC CSM V2 P259, CSM V3 P49, V325 P81, V336 P326
JOHN A & THERESA A GUILLE
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF WEBSTER
The Webster School District is seeking applicants for the following positions: CERTIFIED STAFF
5/6th Grade Science Teacher
WECAN Vacancy ID: 205440
Special Education Teacher
WECAN Vacancy ID: 209700
Long Term Substitute – High School Math
WECAN Vacancy ID: 213156
SUPPORT STAFF
Bus Driver (2) SIGN ON BONUS AVAILABLE
For more information, please visit www.webster.k12.wi.us
Notice of Employment Opportunity
Grantsburg School District MIDDLE SCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER
JOB DESCRIPTION: Full-time Special Education Teacher for the 2024-25 school year. Applicants with certification in Special Education are strongly encouraged to apply. 100% FTE
QUALIFICATIONS: Appropriate Wisconsin DPI Certification in Cross Categorical Special Education or the ability to obtain a license.
REQUIREMENTS: Special Education Cross Categorical experience and middle school teaching experience preferred. Applicants are required to work effectively with the middle school special education team to design and implement high quality educational programming for our students. Excellent interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work in conjunction with building administration and classroom teachers to provide innovative behavior management approaches are necessary. Knowledge of IEP writing and management, referral process, functional behavior assessments, co-teaching, instruction based on the needs of the student as outlined in the IEP, and successful cross categorical programs is required. Applicants should possess the skills necessary to communicate effectively and collaborate with parents, county service workers, and multiple service providers in order to build educational partnerships. Applicants need to be prepared to deal with all aspects of the personal, social, and academic needs of middle school students. Interested applicants should be willing to take part in school and student improvement initiatives.
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants are encouraged to apply by using the Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN) site at: https://services.education.wisc.edu/wecan/teachers/login/form2. cfm. You may also send a letter of application, resume, credentials (3 current letters of recommendation and transcripts) and a copy of license to the address below. This posting will be open until filled.
CONTACT: Kris Wallace, Principal Grantsburg Middle District 500 East James Ave. Grantsburg, WI 54840 (715) 463-2455 kris.wallace@gk12.net
SIREN SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL
EDUCATION AIDE
The School District of Siren has opened up a search Special Education Aides for the 24-25 school year. Positions could be full time, part time or substitute positions.
The Special Education aide works directly with students under the direction of the Special Education Teacher. Duties may include: changing and tube feeding wheelchair bound students, providing educational support for students at all building levels in both regular and special education classes, documenting daily activities of students, and other duties as assigned.
Ability to communicate effectively with staff and students is essential. Candidates must possess the ability to be flexible in their assigned work duties. Possession of Wisconsin DPI Handicap Aide License or the ability to obtain one is required.
Applications are available on the school district website or from the district office.
Please send application materials to: Denise Johnston, Director of Special Education, 24022 4th Avenue, Siren, WI 54872 Or via email to: djohnston@siren.k12.wi.us
Review of applications will begin after July 1, 2024
The School District of Siren is an equal opportunity employer/educator and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.
Notice of Employment Opportunity Grantsburg School District
6TH GRADE MATH TEACHER
JOB DESCRIPTION: Full-Time Math Middle School Teacher beginning in the 2024-25 school year. Applicants with a mathematics certification are strongly encouraged to apply. This position will be primarily 6th math instruction. 100% FTE.
QUALIFICATIONS: Grantsburg School District is seeking applicants with the desire to join a dynamic and engaging staff to be a part of a strong math department. Applicants need to have a Wisconsin Certification or ability to obtain DPI certification. Applicants must possess the dynamics to build relationships with children to create an atmosphere of learning and mutual respect. The ability to interact and be a contributing member of a talented and dedicated teaching faculty is desired. Technology skills, willingness to learn technology skills, and the ability to apply the skills in the classroom are necessary. Applicants with experience using CPM are desirable, but not required. Coaching opportunities may exist for qualified candidates. Strong references for this position are essential.
REQUIREMENTS: We are seeking applicants with certification in math education. Applicants need to be prepared to deal with aspects of the personal, social, and academic needs of middle school students. Applicants should possess the skills necessary to communicate effectively with parents in order to build educational partnerships. Interested applicants should be willing to take part in school and student improvement initiatives.
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants are encouraged to apply by using the Wisconsin Education Career Access Network (WECAN) site at https://wecan.education.wisc.edu/#/. You may also send a letter of application, resume, credentials (3 current letters of recommendation and transcripts) and a copy of license to the address below. This position will be open until filled.
CONTACT: Kris Wallace, Principal Grantsburg Middle School 500 E. James Ave., Grantsburg, WI 54840 (715) 463-2455, kris.wallace@gk12.net
race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, age, disability (physical or mental), family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.
Pastor John Addison
Faith Lutheran
Iwas lucky enough to grow up with parents who loved me and for some reason love me still? But let’s get serious, it is a parent’s job to love their children. No, the older I get the more I am able to realize that whatever luck I had was because I had grandparents who loved me too. You are probably wondering why I can so easily forget the parents who raised me and sacrificed who knows how many paychecks for me, and instead talk about my grandparents whose main accomplishments in raising me were giving me chewing gum, making me pancakes, and telling me stories? You see, my grandparents did something for me my parents
FALUN
CROSSROADS CHRISTIAN
Pastor Nathaniel Melton | 715-403-7777
LAKESIDE COMMUNITY
LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA
715-635-7791
SACRED HEART OF JESUS & MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH
Father Francis Adoboli | 715-866-7321
ALPHA
CALVARY COVENANT
Scott Sagle, Pastor | 715-689-2541
ASKOV
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
ATLAS
ATLAS UNITED METHODIST
UPPER ST. CROIX PARISH
Pastor Jenny Lee
CENTURIA
HOLY TRINITY METHODIST
Pastor Steve Rice | 715-485-3363
CUSHING
LAKETOWN LUTHERAN
Pastor Marilyn Crossfield
FIRST LUTHERAN
Pastor Neal Weltzin
DANBURY
FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE 715-656-4010
UNITED METHODIST
Samuel Subramanian, Lead Pastor 715-866-8646
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Father Francis Adoboli | 715-866-7321
YELLOW LAKE LUTHERAN
Pastors Doug Olson, Pastor Sandy Carpenter, Pastor Steve Ward, Pastor Carm Aderman 715-349-8281
FIRST BAPTIST
Mike Kleven, Pastor
TRINITY LUTHERAN
Help wanted
could never do. They sat me down and through their generosity gave me a longer timeline of love. I will be forever grateful for my parents, but it was my grandparents who taught me the lessons of life my parents would never have been able to teach me on their own. While I was unwrapping my chewing gum, and devouring my pancakes, my grandparents told me stories of their successes, failures and taught me about their families and their faith. If it was just my parents, my understanding of love, life, and faith would be narrowed. My grandparents were the ones who were able to give me visions of life, love, and faith that most kids are never
Jay Ticknor, Pastor | 715-689-2271
FREDERIC
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST
Pastor Scott Manly | 715-327-4956
PILGRIM LUTHERAN -
FREDERIC (ELCA)
Pastor Emily Stelling | 715-327-8012
CHURCH OF CHRIST
Minister: Guy McCarty, Gene Olson, Robert Rutherford 715-327-8387
CROSSWALK COMMUNITY CHURCH (EFCA)
Pastor Greg Lund | 715-327-8767
ST. LUKE’S UNITED METHODIST
Pastor Steve Rice Church: 715-327-4436 | Parsonage: 715-327-8383
WEST SWEDEN GRACE
LUTHERAN
Pastor John Peterson | 715-327-4340
ZION LUTHERAN - BONE LAKE
Pastor Mike Fisk | 715-472-8660
ST. DOMINIC CATHOLIC CHURCH
Fr. Joseph Raj Alluri | 715-327-8119
IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH
(LCMS) Pastor Quinten Buechner Office: 715-866-7191 | Cell: 715-307-4448
GRANTSBURG
CENTRAL UNITED METHODIST
UPPER ST. CROIX PARISH
Rev. Jenny Lee
715-463-2624
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
CATHOLIC CHURCH
Fr. Joseph Raj Alluri
LIVING HOPE CHURCH
Doug McConnell, Senior Pastor Chris Radtke, Youth Pastor 715-463-5794
FAITH LUTHERAN
John Addison
715-463-5388 | www.myfaithlutheran.org Service on WCMP Radio (100.9 FM)
able to see. The Bible says, “Watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them,” (Deut 4:9). So, I just want to say thank you to all the grandparents out there still spending time with the kids. You might not think that you are important to the younger generations. But let me assure you, we need you! We need your chewing gum, pancakes, eyes, memories, and your stories to live on. Because otherwise we might grow up not being able to see God’s love, faith, or life, without them!
GRACE BAPTIST
715-463-5699
BETHANY LUTHERAN
Pastor Jay Ticknor | 715-463-5746
WOOD RIVER CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
715-463-2792
EKDALL COMMUNITY CHURCH
Rich Goodwin, Pastor | 763-229-3467
NEW HOPE LUTHERAN
Emory Johnson, Pastor | 715-463-5700 www.newhopelutheranchurch.org
Watch live and recorded sermons on our website. Sunday Service: 9:30 am
HERTEL
LAKEVIEW UNITED METHODIST
Ferdinand B. Serra, Pastor LEWIS
MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST
Samuel Subramanian, Lead Pastor 715-866-8646
LUCK
FAITH FELLOWSHIP CHURCH
2497 State Hwy 35, Luck, WI
Ken Mettler, Pastor | 715-475-7666
10:00 am Worship every Sunday
LUCK LUTHERAN
Gregory Ofsdahl, Pastor | 715-472-2605
ST. PETER’S LUTHERAN
Roger Kastelle, Pastor | 715-472-8190
WEST DENMARK LUTHERAN
Linda Rozumalski, Pastor | 715-472-2383
MARKVILLE
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH
Council Chair: 715-244-3301
Klaus Nieder, 715-244-3403
SIREN
ADVENTURE CHURCH
Lead Pastors: CJ and Cheryl Johnson 715-349-5750
BETHANY LUTHERAN
Pastor Emily Stelling 715-463-5280
SIREN UNITED METHODIST
Samuel Subramanian, Lead Pastor 715-866-8646
SIREN COVENANT
Brian Pardun, Pastor 715-349-5601
JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Sun. Public Talk: 10 am | Watch Tower: 10:40 am Cong. Bible Study: Tues. 7:00 pm Ministry School: 7:35 pm | Service Mtg.: 8:05 pm
DWELLING POINT CHURCH OF GOD
Bryan Davis, Pastor
SPOONER
BEAUTIFUL SAVIOR EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH (WELS)
David Warskow, Pastor | 715-635-7672 Sun. 7:40 am “Voice of Salvation” broadcast WJMC 96.1 FM
ST. ALBAN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH Father David Bauer | 715-635-8475
TRADE LAKE
ZION LUTHERAN
John Peterson, Pastor | 715-327-8384
TRADE LAKE BAPTIST
Nathaniel King, Pastor | 715-327-8402 www.tradelakebaptistchurch.org
TRADE RIVER
EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH
David Lund, Pastor 715-488-2296 | www.traderiverefc.org
WEBSTER
GRACE UNITED METHODIST
Samuel Subramanian, Lead Pastor 715-866-8646
OUR REDEEMER LUTHERAN LCMS
Jody Walter, Pastor Office: 715-866-7191 | Home: 715-866-4622 www.ourredeemerwebster.com www.facebook.com/OurRedeemerWebster CHURCH OF CHRIST 715-866-7157
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF WEBSTER
Jeff Jowers, Pastor 715-866-4111
ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH Father Francis Adoboli | 715-866-7321
