Neighbors-1208 August/September 2012

Neighbors

Aug/Sept 2012 Vol. 2, Issue 6 - $4.95

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Central Wisconsin Rural & City Living

FEATURED THIS ISSUE Good Stewards Youth Animal Auction Great Mushroom Hunt

Crepuscular Rays Over Lime Lake Eastern Portage County, WI Photo by Pete Sanderson (Uniquely Wisconsin Photo Gallery, Page 24)

Focus Article 8 Good Stewards Saluting the Efforts of Our Central Wisconsin Farmers

Table of Contents August/September 2012, Vol. 2, Issue 6

Features 14

Regular Columns 4 Together

Youth Animal Auction Marquette County Fair 4-H & FFA Achievers

Thoughts from Jim Faivre, Faivre Implement CEO and Neighbors’ publisher

6

Grounded

32

Ruth Johnson, Neighbors’ Editor, reflects on daily life

24

The Great Mushroom Hunt Searching for Morels in the wild

Uniquely Wisconsin Regular Descriptive Photo Gallery

By Pete Sanderson, MD, MBA

36

Flying Feather

40

Regular Column and Photos by Denise Krause, Feathered Gold Stables

29

Home Grown Regular Column and Photos by Emily Marzahl, Marzahl Prospects

Page 3

Wag Inn Kennels and Wildlife Ranch

Koerten’s Featured Artist Freehand Airbrush Artist, Jerry Gadamus, Focuses on the Outdoors Environment.

18

Living in Harmony

44

Improving Credit Central City Credit Union Explores Credit Options

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Together Hog Heaven. That is where I was the night of July 20, when I attended the Marquette County Fair Youth Animal Auction.

As a bidder, I surveyed the sheep, hogs, cattle, poultry and rabbits entering the ring with their young owners, who handled them with quiet confidence.

It brought me back to those days, so many years ago, when I was also in 4-H and showing steers. At that time, we only showed our entries for prizes and did not auction them.

Whoever originated the idea of having the exhibitors offer their animals deserves to be congratulated.

This is a fabulous way for industrious 4-H members to earn money, many of whom put it towards college or financing the start-up of their own business.

Above: I happily won the bid for Hannah Marzahl’s Reserve Grand Champion hog at the Marquette County Fair. Hannah is the daughter of Greg & Chris Marzahl, Marzahl Livestock, producers of prize-winning hogs and sheep. Emily Marzahl, Hannah’s sister, writes Home Grown, a column about raising livestock for each issue of Neighbors. Bottom: One of our stories this issue is on Wag Inn Kennels & Wildlife Ranch.

It features a full spectrum of exotic and domestic animals interacting together in harmony. I felt like I was Noah except there is not any rain in the forecast.

Shane Adams of Stevens Point and Jayne Dalton, Endeavor, are perfect examples of the success gained at these shows since both are now attending college while running their own cattle operations.

Feel free to share your stories about your 4-H experiences and post photos on our Neighbors Facebook page. As always, send me your thoughts.

Happy trails & blue skies for all!

Jim Faivre Publisher, Neighbors CEO, Faivre Implement neighbors@faivre.com

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane, Stevens Point, WI 54482 Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300  Fax: (715) 592-6116 WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court, Westfield, WI 53964 Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191  Fax: (608) 296-3912 www.faivre.com www.facebook.com/FaivreImpl www.twitter.com/faivreimpl

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Neighbors

Grounded

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Central Wisconsin Rural & City Living

PUBLISHER Jim Faivre neighbors@faivre.com

EDITOR, PHOTOGRAPHER, DESIGN & LAYOUT, PRODUCTION, CIRCULATION

No apologies. That is what the American farmer owes the public.

I have covered many different “fields” of farming from potatoes, to corn, hops, mint, giant carrots and peas; then over to livestock: cattle, swine, heirloom turkeys, sheep, exotic animals, poultry and interaction with area FFA, 4-H and county fair market animal auctions.

Ruth Johnson neighbors@faivre.com 715-592-4300 ARCHIVE OF NEIGHBORS ISSUES www.faivre.com/neighbors.php

Through these stories, I discovered a disturbing trend, one I also see in our nation’s business world. Farmers and businesses, the backbone of our country, are under attack from every side.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO NEIGHBORS! www.faivre.com/neighbors_signup.php

As a journalist, I am appalled because I truly believe the media is often responsible by negatively reporting both the business and agricultural world, whenever possible.

We are building a network of businesses who are committed to our area. Please consider supporting these fine businesses.

ADVERTISER INDEX

Investigative reporting erupted during the 60’s with Nixon’s Watergate controversies when Americans were first exposed to behind the scenes political maneuvering. The media quickly realized how this reporting style increased their sales and audience and circulation numbers.

Now we live in a world dominated by reality TV. Nothing is sacred and criticism rules. Rather than encourage our younger generation and show the success stories many of them are achieving, we tell them there is no hope and too often, the media encourages them to “rise up”’ against the “machine”.

Of course, I say this at risk of being ostracized by my own profession but it is time someone stands up and says, “I’m not going to take this anymore”, just like in the movie, Broadcast News.

Mind you, I recognize that some radical changes were necessary over the last forty years, but did we have to swing so far to the polar left that farmers and businesses are automatically viewed as villains?

Farmers are foremost, stewards of the land, revering and treasuring the ground they work. Today, greater focus on crop rotation, minimum tillage, precision farming and other methods, allow the producer to use less fertilizer, chemicals and water. Simultaneously, they protect the very land providing them with the huge crop harvests our world demands to fulfill their ever-growing needs.

These environmentally conscious methods also help safeguard their neighbors, families and friends. Please let me know your thoughts on this and other matters.

Warm regards,

Ruth Johnson Editor, Neighbors Magazine neighbors@faivre.com Page 6

Above: I did a story in this issue on the wildlife at Wag Inn Kennel, Custer. I was debating the wisdom of having an antlered deer sniff my hand. However, I found it to be very tame.

_____________________________________________

B&B Paving………………………………………………Page 31 Central Cities Credit Union……………………….Page 46 Feathered Gold Stables…………………………….Page 37 Haertel Monument…………………………………..Page 07 Living Local Fall Festival………………………..….Page 47 Keller………………..………………………..……………Page 02 Koerten's Fine Framing & Gifts LLC…….……Page 30 Marzahl Prospects……………………………………Page 21 Pete Sanderson Photography…………………..Page 28 STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane, Stevens Point Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300  Fax: (715) 592-6116 WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court, Westfield Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191  Fax: (608) 296-3912

www.faivre.com www.facebook.com/FaivreImpl www.twitter.com/faivreimpl Copyright 2012, Neighbors, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Back issues are available online, www.faivre.com/neighbors.php. Publisher not responsible for content of materials submitted.

This symbol designates the end of a story.

Neighbors-August/September 2012

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GOOD STEWARDS Saluting the Efforts of Our Central Wisconsin Farmers

By Ruth Johnson, Editor

Page 8

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Cautious skepticism. That is the reaction I get from most farmers when I contact them regarding writing about their farm or crops for Neighbors magazine.

Immediately, I explain Neighbors editorial philosophy. Our goal is to present a positive image of Central Wisconsin and the people, businesses and farming/dairy/ livestock entities that make it so interesting.

We also try to let our interviewees review their story before it goes online or to print.

(Continued on Page 10) Opposite Page: Nick & Dianne Somers, Plover River Farms, perch on the ladder of their new JD 9560 RT, one of several tractors they purchased this year. These tractors’ computerized functions and integrated GPS satellite technologies deliver exceptional in-field precision and peak efficiencies that help the Somers reduce their carbon footprint. Top: One of the Somers’ GPS satellite connected tractors in the field, planting potatoes. Not only does it furnish precision planting at the exact depth and distance needed, it can steer on its own. Operators can then maintain a closer watch over the entire process. Once the field is mapped and calculated via satellite, the tractor can even leave the field and return later to the exact spot where it stopped previously. That is when the real magic begins because the tractor will follow all the lines and curves already laid out by the GPS system. Right: Most farmers are masters at repurposing and maximizing the lives of their equipment. Ed Hudziak of Hudziak Farms, Wild Rose and his son, Andy, are perfect examples. They take great pride in in their 24+ John Deere operable tractors and implements, spanning every decade from the 40s onward. Shown at right is their operable John Deere 25 combine.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 9)

It is only then they relax and agree to an interview but not because they have anything to hide. It is because over the last twenty years, farmers and other businesses have come under attack from mainstream media and special interest groups.

In all of the agricultural stories Neighbors has covered, a basic truth is evident. Today’s farmers, no matter what scale their operation or the kind of crops or livestock they handle, understand the importance of good stewardship practices.

No one has to tell these individuals that if they do not safeguard the environment, their land will not provide the return on investment they need to survive as a business.

Over generations, farmers evolved into masters of efficiency and sustainability while figuring out how to raise more than double the yield of crops and animals on what sometimes amounts to half as many acres.

(Continued on Page 12) Top: Kizewski Farms, Plover, like many other farmers in the region, plants cover crops between their main crops’ growing seasons. When preparing the fields for the main crop, they leave part of the live cover crop, as seen in this photo. Both practices help reduce soil erosion and prevent blowing dirt from reducing visibility on roadside traffic. Left: David & Mike Warzynski, Paradise Farms, Almond, work with Regina Hirsch, Eco-Fruit Outreach Specialist for the UW-Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems, the Xerces Society and NRCS to develop sites within their cucumber fields, which will harbor plants that attract native pollinators. They will share the results of this project with other Wisconsin farmers to encourage the widespread development of pollinator plots.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337  (608) 296-2191 westfield@faivre.com Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 10)

These changes come at great expense to farmers since energy efficient and environmentally wise equipment and machinery cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Many larger farms like Plover River, Heartland, Paramount, Paradise, Wysocki Produce and others participate in government and university sponsored committees working towards developing sustainability programs, particularly those that address reduced pesticide control and water inputs, soil and water quality, climate, energy, waste management and other environmental, social responsibility and economic considerations.

The judicious use of water, a precious resource even in wet years, is a critical issue for our region’s farmers since our sandy soil and stress-sensitive crops like potatoes require irrigation.

Many farms now incorporate energy-efficient, low horsepower and low pressure/drop nozzle irrigation systems, which reduce evaporation and optimize delivery to the plants for less waste.

(Continued on Page 13) Top & Middle: Central Wisconsin’s sandy soil is great for vegetables, which helps establish our region as a major vegetable supplier. However, sandy soil requires irrigation for crops to thrive, particularly this year. Without irrigation, we would see many, many farms in trouble. Many farms like Plover River Farms, as shown in these photos, now utilize computer controlled, low pressure irrigation systems, which provide optimal coverage, less evaporation and waste. Bottom: Heartland Farms’ Horizon Cranberry operation meets its need for an abundant supply of water by continually recycling water recaptured after the bog flooding processes. The water is filtered and then stored in a massive pond in the background of this photo (tan and low profile shape) for reuse later.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 12)

Most Central Wisconsin farmers engage in some or all of the following “good steward” practices, which we will continue to highlight in our stories: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Using energy-efficient and GPS-controlled equipment.

Crop rotation.

Minimum/reduced tillage methods.

Planting cover crops.

Soil enrichment and amendment.

Precision farming and irrigation methods to utilize less inputs, fertilizer and water.

Scouting for crop problems.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which visually monitors fields for pests, then dials in on problem areas, avoiding unnecessary spraying elsewhere.

Creating field wind break barriers, Planting beneficial insect/pollinator plots, buffer strips and wildlife habitat areas.

Repurposing machinery and recycling oil waste.

Developing uses for vegetable and grain waste such as livestock fodder and other uses.

Top: Paramount Farms, Bancroft, believes strongly in field windbreaks like these pictured in one of their fields. Several years ago when Paramount Farms acquired tracts of land adjacent to Highway 39 near Almond/Bancroft, they created field windbreaks on either side of the highway since the area’s soil is powdery. These linear plantings of trees/shrubs help reduce wind speed in the open fields and prevent soil erosion. They particularly help alleviate dust storms that previously blew across the highway, impeding vision. The windbreaks are continually refurbished with removal and replacement of dead or stunted trees/shrubs. Below: Alicia, Jeremie and Richard Pavelski, owners of Heartland Farms, Inc., Hancock, a 14,000-acre irrigated potato and vegetable farm, won the 2012 National Potato Council Environmental Stewardship Award. According to Richard, “We believe the quality of our crop goes hand-in-hand with the quality of the environment. We employ integrated pest management (IPM), to monitor fields for the presence of pests and establishing thresholds for treatment. Crop rotation and resistance management are also keys to environmental stewardship. Habitat restoration for deer and wild turkey is part of the farm’s plan, while lupine is planted in field corners to provide refuge for the endangered Karner Blue butterfly. Waterfowl and Sandhill Cranes are frequent visitors to the farm.”

Next time you meet a farmer, encourage them to discuss their occupation with you. You may be pleasantly surprised at their strong commitment to sustainability and protecting the land for future generations. Today’s farmers come from a long line of good stewards and they continue the tradition.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

YOUTH ANIMAL AUCTION Marquette County Fair 2012

By Ruth Johnson, Editor

Page 14

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Personal achievement shines through the faces

of these young contenders at the 2012 Marquette County Fair’s Youth Animal Auction, which is represented by a full spectrum of animals and regional 4-H and FFA groups.

(Continued on Page 16) Opposite Page: Marzahl Livestock, represented by Hannah Marzahl (far left), won the bid on Sam Shirley’s pair of Grand Champion Roaster chickens. Sam, son of John & Quinn Shirley, Montello is with Russell Flats. His sister helped him show his poultry twosome. Top: Eric Coddington, Badger 4-H, son of Brian & Mary Coddington, Montello, sold his steer to United Wisconsin Grain Producers, LLC (UWGP). Right: Grand Marsh State Bank bought Madeline Kingsley’s lamb. A Douglas Doers 4-H member, she is the daughter of Rod & Dana Kingsley, Wisconsin Dells. Bottom: Eric Mateske, Montello FFA, son of Jeff & Judy Mateske, Montello, which was purchased by Wilbur-Ellis Co. Eric Coddington and Eric Mateske are close friends and as members of the Montello FFA, were both featured in Neighbors February 2012 issue.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 15) Top: Gavin Kingsley, a Douglas Doers 4-H member and son of Rod & Dana Kingsley, Wisconsin Dells, sold his Reserve Champion turkey to Crawford Oil & Propane. Left: Richard Gumz, Gumz Muck Farms LLC, bought Tori Timme’s Grand Champion hog. A Douglas Doers 4-H member, she is the daughter of David & Tonya Timme, Endeavor. Bottom: Crawford Oil & Propane won the bid on Jacalyn Gumz’ Grand Champion rabbit, featured previously in Neighbors April/May 2012 issue. Jacalyn, a Douglas Doers 4-H member, is the daughter of Richard & Linda Gumz, Endeavor.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

Column and Photos

by Emily Marzahl, Marzahl Prospects www.marzahlprospects.com Editor’s Note: Emily and her family are Oxford, WI producers of award-winning show pigs and club lambs for competition in livestock shows with 20-25 Grand or Reserve Champions award winners and other awards annually. Read more about the Marzahls in Neighbors, March 2012.

Livestock judging at shows

and fairs entails evaluating more than just the animals. It also includes one of the hardest classes in which you will compete - Showmanship!

Showmanship hinges on the ability to present your animal in an attractive manner. You are the one being judged, not your animal.

Showmanship encompasses the art of training, grooming and showing your animal(s) to make them more presentable in competitions.

SHOWMANSHIP STAGES Preparation for Showmanship events Involves many stages:

Above: Competitors shown left to right; Katie Chapman, Tiffanie Timme and Hannah Marzahl brace their animals during the judges reasoning.

FAULTY LIVESTOCK. Choose an animal that has the fewest faults because it will be one less factor to worry about in Showmanship judging.

If you choose to show an animal with faults, you must know how to hide/ mask those faults so the animal looks its best at all times.

Know the faults of your animal and what you would change about them.

CLEANLINESS. It is vitally important to present an extremely clean animal if you want to achieve desirable Showmanship placement.

Clean the animal’s ears with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol, then wipe with baby oil to prevent drying.

ANIMAL SELECTION. When choosing animals for showmanship, select your category first - market or breeding.

This is vital since you need to brace some market animals to accentuate their muscularity. Market animals should show muscle and meat quality.

Clean the hooves using a stiff brush and water as well as to make sure they are properly clipped and filed.

For Showmanship, you do not brace breeding stock. Instead, you showcase their feminine/masculine qualities and overall capacity to produce young.

GROOMING. Try to clip your own animals. Consult your 4-H/FFA leader or other professionals if you need advice or equipment for clipping.

Page 18

If you do have someone else help you clip your animal, have that person show you how to do it. Then, attempt to groom the animal yourself or help as much as possible.

Remember that the addition of color or other natural or synthetic materials to any part of the animal is prohibited.

Enhancement of color is allowed.

SHOWMANSHIP IN THE RING. Many factors go into judging this stage, some of which include leading, posing in the ring, showing the animal, alertness, poise and attitude.

(Continued on Page 19)

Below: Marzahl Livestock let Paisley Lindner use these feeder pigs for her first competition.

Examine skin folds and leg creases to check for oily residues. If so, clean with soapy water.

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Nothing else should matter while you are in the ring – not the audience or other activities and animals.

Always be extra courteous, respond promptly to judges and display your sportsmanship. Be kind to other exhibitors and treat them like you would want to be treated.

Let the judge see the other animals in the class by being mindful of where you place you and your animal.

Left: Parker Lindner keeps his market hog in the open so that the judge can see it easily, increasing his Showmanship potential.

(Continued from Page 18)

Leading - It is your responsibility as a competitor, to respond with your animal, quickly and accurately, to the signals and commands given by the judge or officials. Always move quickly into line when given the signal.

Never let a large gap open between you and the animal in front of you or crowd the exhibitor ahead of you.

Lead behind the animal, not in front, so it is fully visible to the judge. Hogs, particularly, need guiding into the open so the judge can view all angles.

No matter what the species, move your animal smoothly and not rushed, around the entire ring.

Perfectly Posing: Train your animal so you can move it quickly and easily into correct pose and set-up position.

Avoid over showing your animal. Let it show itself when posed and set-up.

Leave space for fellow exhibitors when you lead into a side-by-side position.

Practice moving and positioning you and your animal in advance, so your posture and movements will be natural. Keep your training simple for both you and your animal Page 19

The Animal Advantage: Showmanship is only 50% due to the exhibitor. The remaining 50% is on the other end of the halter. This percent is largely contingent on you choosing an animal that loves to be in the show ring and works well with you.

Know basic information about your animal such as breed, breeding date, birth date, pregnancy status, body parts, ration being consumed and performance since judges might question you about these facts.

If your animal has any faults make sure you can explain how you will overcome the faults to the judge.

Avoid cutting another exhibitor off while walking through the ring. If the animal ahead of you stops, help them if they need it.

Regardless of whether you win or lose a class, shake the judge’s hand as well as that of the other exhibitors.

Keep showing until you exit the ring, the entire class is placed, the judge has given oral reasons and the class has been dismissed.

EXHIBITOR APPEARANCE. Competitors put time and effort into making their animals look as good as possible.

You should take as much time on your own appearance and style, which can take many directions.

(Continued on Page 21)

Judges may ask you to switch and show another exhibitor’s animal.

If so, treat that animal as if it were your own.

Poise, Alertness and Attitude: When maneuvering through the ring, keep an eye on your animal and always be aware of the judge’s location.

Move throughout the ring naturally as if you were at home but with a touch more attention.

Left: Gabe Kingsley won Second Place in Beginner Showmanship with his Southdown Market Lamb.

Neighbors-August/September 2012

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STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300 WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court, Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191

Page 20

Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 19)

Back in the day, we were required to wear white dress shirts, black pants jeans and boots.

In today’s show world is almost like a fashion contest. Competitors should be well groomed, just like their own animals.

Keep your style modest – no saggy pants or low-cut shirts. Dress up your look with accessories like belt buckles, chunky jewelry and rhinestone belts.

Always check with your 4-H/FFA leader or fair/show board because sometimes there is a specific dress code.

MORE SHOW RING TIPS

Boys usually wear belted, hole-free jeans, western or work boots and a nice short or long-sleeved collared shirt.

Enter the ring at a slow walk, with the animal between you and the judge (10 to 15 feet from the judge).

Remember to take your hat off before you enter the show ring.

Keep moving at a slow pace, except when the judge approaches you to talk about your animal or for his inspection.

Girls now wear stylish, shiny, sparkly and flowing tops with nice, hole-free belted jeans and boots. Hair is best put up so it does not hang in your face.

Your animal should never run in the ring and restrain it from fighting or other bad behavior.

Make-up style should be fresh-faced and not too garish.

Think of your whip as a guide, not a punisher and use it sparingly.

Left: Paris Lindner and her x-bred market lamb earn First Place in Beginner Showmanship.

Most of all make sure you and your animal enjoy yourselves. Showmanship should be about fun as well as winning.

Hannah Marzahl pictured with her Marquette County Reserve Grand Champion Sheep, a Marzahl Prospect progeny, and buyers, Greg Lindner with granddaughter, Paris Lindner, Lindner Farms.

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Marzahl’s unmatched breeding prowess produces 20-25 major award winners annually. Treating your animals with kindness and affection and using correct training techniques transforms everyone involved into a winner!

C o n t a ct u s t o d ay !

Marzahl Prospects

Oxford, WI marzahlprospects@gmail.com www.marzahlprospects.com (608) 671-8399 Page 21

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300

WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191

Neighbors-August/September 2012

UNIQUELY WISCONSIN Lakes and Streams

By Pete Sanderson, MD, MBA

Above: Dells of the Eau Claire River showing relatively high flow during spring. Note several blocks of ice on the right side of the image. Three rivers in Wisconsin are named Eau Claire; this one is in Marathon County. This river carried vast amounts of melt water from the glacier.

Left: Dells of the Eau Claire River imaged one day previous to the above panorama. The power of the river was palpable but yet not comparable to flows occurring during the glacial period. During the glacial retreat period, water flow in our rivers was estimated to be five to ten times greater than currently seen at peak flows. The force of water flow carved out the Dells of the Eau Claire River and produced a series of potholes, formed by the grinding action of swirling sand and gravel.

Think of Wisconsin and images

of lakes and streams will certainly come to mind. Whereas some states boast of 10,000 lakes, Wisconsin actually has more than 15,000 lakes encompassing nearly a million acres.

Ever wonder how these lakes came to be? The answer, my friends, is glaciation. Wisconsin’s landscape was transformed by glaciers, the most recent of which covered our state some 15,000 years ago.

The Green Bay Lobe of the last glacier covered eastern Wisconsin, extending just east of Highway 39 as it runs through central Wisconsin. Rivers to the west of the glacier carried great quantities of water during the annual spring melt and ever greater amounts of runoff as the glacier eventually retreated.

Water flow carved through rock formations and created wide channels that can be seen today by careful observation.

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Neighbors August/September 2012

Bottom: The Plover River originates in southern Langlade County, flows through Marathon County and then empties into the Wisconsin River in Whiting, Portage County. It runs just west of and generally parallels the glaciers’ furthest advance, marked by a large terminal moraine.

During glacial times, huge amounts of glacial runoff engorged the river, carving a wider channel than what is utilized today. Imaged on a serene morning, the river’s channel widens as it nears McDill Pond.

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Neighbors August/September 2012

Top: McDill Pond as imaged in the summer of 2012.

Middle & Bottom: Due to dam issues, McDill Pond was drained this summer. Driving across Business 51, a cloudbank conjured up an image in my mind of how the great glacier might have looked 15,000 years ago.

The shallow Plover River looked like a braided river, typical of a glacial melt water river.

I created this image of how I thought the area might have appeared when the great glacier covered it.

Melt water contained sediments that then became deposits. These deposits resulted in a shallow river with multiple, ever-changing channels. The channel pattern is similar to braided hair, hence the name, braided river.

A rubble pile, destined to be the terminal moraine, lies at the terminus (foot) of the glacier.

Melt water flows off the top of the glacier and through channels at its base.

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KETTLE (GLACIAL FORMED) LAKES Kettle lakes result when blocks of ice freeze to the underlying bedrock, stopping them dead in their tracks. As the glacier retreats, the blocks of ice stay at its feet, eventually buried by glacial outwash. Outwash forms as melt water streams flow away from the glacier and deposit sediment.

When the blocks of ice melt, kettle holes are fashioned. If the water table is high enough, a new lake materializes.

TAKING SHAPE Glacial outwash is necessary to form kettle lakes.

Without the till, the block of ice would simply melt without a trace. A kettle lake becomes only as deep as the depth of the surrounding till.

Not supported by springs or inflows of stream water, water level in most kettle lakes depends on seepage from surrounding ground water.

Many Central Wisconsin kettles conform to the same pattern. Strong melt water flow helped accumulate till to a greater extent on the western or far side and shallow lowland areas to the east.

Very few of our kettles have surface water inflow or outflows. Outflow streams are an indication of a spring-fed lake.

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Neighbors August/September 2012

“The interplay of landscape, light, weather, vegetation and fauna as seen in the photos on this page, showcase the unique beauty that is the Buena Vista.” ~ Pete A. Sanderson

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WISCONSIN LAKES The vast majority of Wisconsin’s lakes formed due to glaciation. Wisconsin is home to the third largest concentration of glacial lakes in the world. Lakes help mold our state’s character and are one of the features that define its uniqueness.

Our lakes are constantly evolving and aging. Over time, they fill in with nutrients, plants and sediments, finally becoming reclaimed as land. Like life itself, this process is ongoing and cannot be prevented any more than we can avoid aging. However, we need to be watchful that our actions, as humans, do not accelerate it.

As you travel around our beautiful state, you will notice lakes in their various life cycle stages. Some are open and full while others show signs of aging. You will also see flat meadows surrounded by wooded areas – a sure sign of a previous glacial formed lake.

Top: Moraine Lake, a glacial lake in Lincoln County, is undergoing the aging process through sediment accumulation and plant growth.

Middle: Nearly surrounded by wetland, only a small center portion of this glacial formed lake north of Harrison Hills, Lincoln County is still open water.

Bottom: With merely a small remnant of open water visible, Horn Lake, Lincoln County, is a lake by virtue of name only. Before long, only a meadow will remain.

Regardless of their stage, all of our lakes have a certain level of innate beauty to them. Enjoy them, as they are what help make Wisconsin unique.

Please feel free to email any comments or alert me to other areas that are “Uniquely Wisconsin.”

pete.sanderson@ministryhealth.org For more images, visit my blog, mdleader.wordpress.com.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pete Sanderson, renowned landscape photographer, graces Neighbors with his dramatically different and dynamically moving visual depictions of Central Wisconsin. His works are available through Koerten's Fine Framing & Gifts in Stevens Point. As an MD, MBA, Pete is also the Director of Medical Informatics Operations and Executive Sponsor of the Electronic Health Record for Ministry Health Care.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

Pete Sanderson’s Featured Print

2012 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER

Crepuscular Rays Over Lime Lake Eastern Portage County, WI Imagine having your own Pete Sanderson Limited Edition print! Each issue, renowned landscape photographer, Pete Sanderson, will offer one print from his multi-faceted collections, which he believes epitomizes the unique beauty of Wisconsin.

Pete Sanderson

PETE SANDERSON’S PHOTO COMMENTARY: “Sitting on a hill along the western edge of Lime Lake, I watched the sun rise. I began to notice beautiful yellows as the sky was punctuated with shadows, cast as the sun streamed through the clouds. These crepuscular rays are often referred to as God Rays.”

Pete Sanderson will personally print and sign each 11”x14” pigmented ink jet print on cotton paper.

These prints are obtainable at the special Neighbors price of $40.00/each (normally $60.00/each), until October 1, 2012. To order, call or visit Koerten's Fine Framing & Gifts, (715) 341-7773, 2501 Church St, Stevens Point.

Prints are available for personal pickup at Koerten's Fine Framing & Gifts or can be mailed for arrival by October 15, for an additional $10.00 to cover shipping and handling. No program enrollment is required and this special price is good only until October 1, 2012.

Capturing the Essence!

Freehand Airbrush Artist, Jerry Gadamus, Focuses on the Outdoors Environment.

By Ruth Johnson, Editor

Spring to life, is what you

expect the works of Jerry Gadamus to do when you see them in print or in person.

Internationally acclaimed, this local artist creates unbelievably detailed outdoor theme paintings with his unique "freehand airbrush" painting style. He uses no stencils or brushes to execute his artistry.

Jerry’s award-winning art appears on countless magazine and book covers. The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau has included his work in their prestigious juried Birds of Art exhibition and tours.

Koerten’s Fine Framing & Gifts in Stevens Point, carries the works of Jerry Gadamus.

Originally, Jerry wanted to study natural resources, but it involved too much math - not his favorite subject, so he majored in art, which was actually his second choice, earning his Bachelor of Science degree.

Jerry has been painting for over thirty years, capturing farm animals and wildlife in their natural environments.

His choice worked out great, however.

Now he can paint and study nature, his favorite passion and spends the bulk of his time outdoors.

Impressed by the work of notable pinup airbrush artist, Vargas, whose gradation of color he loved, Jerry first employed his unique technique in 1969 while studying Fine Arts in college.

Jerry gets some of his inspiration from painting and photography trips to the wilderness of our Western U.S., where he studies the abundant wildlife and vegetation and paints mountainous landscapes with his friends.

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Jerry believes the reason his paintings seem alive is that he pays so much attention to the animal’s eyes.

“It's all about the eyes. Humans express 52 emotions with their eyes alone. It is the same with animals. If you don't have the eyes just right, you don't have a decent painting,” explains Jerry.

Stop by Koerten’s Fine Framing & Gifts and judge for yourself!

Top: Jerry Gadamus enjoying a quiet moment inside for a change. Bottom Left & Right: Two of Jerry’s wildlife works, both available at Koerten’s Fine Framing & Gifts in Stevens Point.

Neighbors-August/September 2012

UNIQUE & ORIGINAL GIFTS Art glass, turned wood, pottery, scarves, purses, jewelry & more!

Featured Pottery Artist, Samantha Decker-Hoppen

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2501 Church St, Stevens Point (800) 873-0056 ♦ (715) 341-7773 sales@koertens.com ♦ www.koertens.com www.facebook.com/koertens

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Faivre Implement’s facility is located directly across the street from B&B Paving Co. Stop by and see the smoothly paved results for yourself. We believe you will agree that we get the job done right - the first time and every time!

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(715) 592-4775 Page 31

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Day Trips

By Heather Kizewski & Ann Marie Worzalla

THE GREAT MUSHROOM HUNT I vividly remember my grandfather hunting mushrooms back when I was a kid. Growing up, I indisputably hated everything about them.

As an adult, seemingly out of nowhere, I developed a love for both the texture and flavor of all edible mushrooms. This came as a bewildering yet pleasant surprise.

DISCOVERY While searching online for Day Trip ideas, I stumbled across Braise on the Go Traveling Culinary School, which featured a wild mushroom hunt with an expert mycologist.

This instantly made me think of my grandpa.

Welcome to Day Trips!

Inspired by an authentic passion for travel, each issue, we share a unique adventure accomplished in one day; no overnight bags required.

We are sisters-in-law from Stevens Point and Amherst, whose families are involved in potato farming, so we are firmly entrenched in Central Wisconsin.

For more than six years, we have ventured forth in search of unique destinations – it is amazing how far you do not have to go to experience the moments we often seek in faraway lands.

We hope to spark your wheels into motion. You are only a day trip away!

Above: Sisters-in-law, Ann Marie Worzalla (Left) & Heather Kizewski (Right).

They were not taking early reservations. All we could do was wait.

The suspense was unbearable– although we wanted it carved in stone instantly, we mentally prepared ourselves in case it sold out before we could reply to the email.

IN THE NICK OF TIME On February 28, an email was sent to me at noon, but I did not get home until after five o’clock. Nervous, knowing there was only room for roughly thirty hunters, I called immediately. With luck and gratitude, we secured the very last two openings.

(Continued on Page 33)

The trip included a professional chef, who teaches preparation and cooking techniques on-site. This made it something we had to do as an official Day Trip!

NOT SO FAST! Frantically, I searched for the ‘sign me up’ link but it was mid-January and the hunt did not take place until spring. Details were not available. All I could do was get on their email list and wait for further updates.

Top Left and Lower Right: Morel mushrooms in the wild.

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Neighbors August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 32)

Day Trips The date was set for Saturday, May 12. Although it felt far away, it gave us the opportunity to research the ‘mushroom of focus’ – the elusive morel, which neither of us had ever heard of and/or tried.

ALLURE OF THE MOREL Little did we know that morels are one of the most highly sought-after mushrooms in America. Hunters camp out for days, sometimes weeks, during peak season. They are also very secretive about where they find them.

This made me want to try a morel as soon as possible but when I asked for them at local grocery stores, nobody had heard of morels.

I was excited to learn we could order them online…until I discovered they sold for fifty dollars a pound!

Because they are considered a gourmet mushroom, they are especially popular among upscale restaurants and culinary fanatics.

In North America, some regions are more productive for morels than others, but they can be found in every state in the U.S. and throughout Canada and Mexico.

Hunted in spring, their appearance is brief beginning when daytime temperatures near sixty degrees and nighttime temperatures stay around forty degrees.

MEETING THE CHEF During the introduction, we met Dave Swanson, who is a professional chef and owner of Braise Culinary School and Restaurant. He was laid back, approachable yet pleasantly professional.

Dave graduated from the Culinary School of Kendall College in Evanston, IL in 1992 and attended Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, France that same year.

He created Braise ‘On- the- Go’ Traveling Culinary School in the summer of 2004.

In 2008, he launched Braise RSA (Restaurant Supported Agriculture), which brings locally sourced foods into local restaurants and recently opened Braise Restaurant.

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READY TO GO We met at 9:00 a.m. in the UW-Washington County parking lot in West Bend, close to the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Braise’s annual morel hunt takes place, rain or shine. Luckily, the weather that day was partly cloudy and cool.

They greeted us with coffee and fresh-baked muffins and scones. A thorough yet brief introduction and overview took place after everyone arrived.

Top: Dave Swanson, owner of Braise Culinary School and Restaurant created Braise On-the-Go Traveling Culinary School, which sponsors events like the Great Mushroom Hunt. Here, he describes the morel’s distinct features. Bottom: Ann Marie hunts diligently for morels cleverly concealed in wooded areas.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

Day Trips

In the Midwest, look for morels around recently dead American elm trees. The bark should be pulling away from the tree in large sheets and some bark may even be lying on the ground.

Other trees that harbor morels are white ash, white pine, wild cherry, cottonwood, tulip (sometimes called yellow poplar) and American sycamore.

SAFETY

(Continued from Page 33)

He frequently volunteers in the community, conducting cooking demonstrations and speaking engagements about the simple delights of local food.

In 2002, he made local press for being the only chef in Milwaukee with an urban garden which provided the restaurant with fresh produce.

In January 2004, Dave had the honor of cooking at the James Beard House in New York City at a dinner entitled The Next Generation.

MOREL HUNTING 101 Britt Bunyard, expert mycologist and editor of Fungi Magazine, is a college professor who has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate Biology courses, including Microbiology, Mycology, Plant Physiology, Biochemistry and Environmental Science.

Britt taught us that morels are most commonly found in younger wooded areas and on the edges of mature woods, on gently sloping land.

We learned that a true morel is completely hollow in the middle. Beware of false morels that are not.

Never eat a raw morel or any other mushroom unless you are 100% certain of its identity.

THE HUNT After the introduction, everyone walked in roughly the same direction into the woods. Somewhat nervous we would not find any morels in the three-hour hunt, we walked in the opposite direction of everyone else.

The opposite direction happened to start about ten feet in front of my car, which is where I found my first morels within the first three minutes of hunting.

The woods smelled grassy and fresh - at times even floral.

The two of us separated but stayed within a couple hundred feet of each other.

While snapping a ‘lucky stick’ over my knee, I glanced up the hill and by mere chance, spotted several morels on a carpet of silky green moss.

Knowing how elusive and alluring they are, I felt slightly stunned at the sight. They looked so healthy and alive I was almost hesitant to cut them.

After an hour or so, I rejoined Ann Marie, who also found several morels close to the car. Later, we learned we found more morels than anyone!

GRAND FINALE After the hunt, Dave taught us how to perfect a gorgeous meal incorporating fresh, locally grown ingredients. The class took place in the parking lot, under a tent in a uniquely equipped outdoor kitchen.

(Continued on Page 35) Top: Actual morels found by Ann Marie and Heather. Bottom: Chef Dave Swanson cooks a delicious meal for the group from fresh, local ingredients and provides the recipes to trip participants.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

Day

\ Trips

(Continued from Page 34)

We learned how to make an alarmingly fresh asparagus soup with morel-mascarpone cream, panzanella salad with spring vegetable ragout, parmesan custard with morel and ramp ragout and green garlic dressing.

There was a clean, distinct crispness to the ragouts.

The ingredients enhanced and complemented each other without the use of heavy seasonings.

NEW REALM OF FLAVORS The morel itself tasted nutty, creamy and almost earthy. The texture seemed 'meaty.' Had I not known what I was eating, I would have assumed it was a mild type of meat I had never tried.

Neither of us had ever eaten ramps. The bulbs reminded me of both garlic and onion – maybe even a small shallot, yet did not overpower the creamy, nutty morel.

Dave used both the bulbs and their greens. His technique created a unique balance of savor and piquancy.

He explained that adding finely sliced bulbs early to the sauté gives it snap; then adding rough chopped greens closer to the end, creates the fresh, green flavor.

PRACTICING TECHNIQUES We donated most of our morels to those in our group who did not find any. I still took a handful home and sautéed them using the helpful techniques I learned from Dave.

We came across glowing carpets of white trilliums nestled in rolling hills of lush forest grass and found a pond with croaking bullfrogs. We also saw vibrant wildflowers ranging from blue violets to striking orange and yellow columbines.

The trip was affordable at fifty dollars per person. We both agreed it would make an unforgettable Mother’s Day gift, based on the time of year it takes place.

Learning about morels gave springtime a whole new meaning for me. Gone are the days dreaming my typical fantasies of tulips, daffodils and patches of green grass.

Now when I think of spring, I also look forward to hunting nearby woods and hiking trails for wild morel mushrooms!

REFERENCES: www.braiselocalfood.com, Fungi Magazine Spring ‘10 issue.

Top: The group observed Chef Dave Swanson cook and explain his techniques and tips for morel recipes. Bottom: Dave also presents his food quite superbly!

Although I did not have the ingredients on hand to create a gourmet ragout, my husband and daughters were grateful finally to sample the morels they heard about for five straight months!

FINAL REFLECTIONS In addition to a divine outdoor culinary experience with great hunting tips from an expert, perhaps most memorable were the serene hours spent in the woods.

Since we walked the opposite direction as the rest of our group, we went hours without seeing or hearing anyone.

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Neighbors August/September 2012

Flying Feather*

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. “ ~ Helen Keller

Regular Column and Photos by Denise Krause Owner, Feathered Gold Stables, www.featheredgold.com

Beat the heat with cool tips for hot weather horse care!

Summer is the perfect time to own a horse. The show and competition circuit is in full swing. Long, sunlit days lend themselves to lazy trail rides.

However, summer’s hot weather and high humidity, pose serious health risks for most horses and ponies, who need extra care in the summer months.

Before you head to the pool or lake, give a thought to your horse as it stands out in the sun.

Following are some simple ways to keep your horse cool and healthy.

Provide ample fresh, clean water and check buckets or troughs daily to ensure they are not contaminated with bird droppings, insect larvae, chaff, or algae growth.

Try to keep the water cool. Horses may not want to drink warm water.

Reaching the bottom of a shallowly filled trough is hard for ponies and foals. Make sure everyone in your paddocks can reach the water.

Sponge or hose down the large blood vessels on the inside of your horse’s legs, belly and neck. Do not spray the horse’s face or get water in its ears - sponge them down gently.

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If you must work your horses hard, schedule your session for early morning or late evening when it is cooler.

After hot weather riding or driving, cool your horse down slowly.

Loosen girths or belly bands immediately after a workout.

Denise enjoys a summer ride with prized stallion, Mickey Finn.

Offer sips of cool, not cold, water and walk the horse slowly. Muscles are more apt to stiffen if the horse only stands. Moving muscles dissipate heat better than stationary ones.

Consider using electrolytes if your horse is sweating or working hard (a long trail ride or competition), or when the combined humidity and air temperature exceeds 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Electrolytes, similar to human sport drinks, replace salts lost in sweating.

Mix electrolytes in the horse feed, or use a large-ended syringe to squirt into their mouth. Use electrolytes made for horses, as those made for other livestock may be unsuitable.

Provide a place for your horse to avoid the sun, perhaps a building or a shade tree.

Clip horses with heavy coats but not too close since exposed skin can sunburn. *Feather is the flowing hair on Gypsy Vanners’ legs

Apply zinc oxide cream to pink-nosed horses to prevent or treat sunburn.

Grass growth slows down and pasture quality declines in late summer. Give your horse gets plenty of fodder and consider supplementing with hay.

Horses need energy to maintain body temperature. Adjust your feed mix if your horse begins to lose condition in hot weather.

During very hot weather, consider keeping your horses stabled during the day, letting them out at night.

If your barn becomes hot and stuffy, set up fans.

Secure and place fans and cords away from horses’ reach and plug into a ground fault interrupt electrical receptacle if electrical wiring might come into contact with moisture, such as a spilled water bucket or a curious horse’s mouth.

(Continued on Page 37)

Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 36)

Biting insects keep horses pacing and stomping. Fight them with water-based fly sprays, masks, and sheets. Oil-based ones can cause bleaching.

A wet, ice-cold towel on your horse’s neck and your own can refresh you and your horse after riding or competing, especially if you drop a bit of mint or other essential oils on your towel for an energizing touch.

Take care of yourself in the heat, too. You cannot take care of your horse effectively if you get overheated and tired.

Call a vet if your horse exhibits any of these heat stroke symptoms: 

   

In an inactive horse, elevated respiration, (normal range is 4-16 breaths/minute), elevated pulse that does not drop or climbs once exercise stops and elevated body temperature above 103°.

Profuse sweating or no sweating at all.

Irregular heart beat known as ‘thumps.’

A depressed attitude.

If a horse’s flanks looks caved in, it may be dehydrated.

Pick up a pinch of skin along your horse’s neck. If skin snaps back quickly, the horse is sufficiently hydrated.

Appleton Flag Day Parade: Justin Krause on Paddy's Dream & Kimberly Casey on Lance.

Your horse's overall health affects its ability to beat hot, summer heat. Sick or injured equines may not have the necessary energy to cool themselves naturally. Keep your horse’s deworming schedule current since internal parasites can cause greater susceptibility to heat exhaustion or stress.

Diligent horse care can help you and your horse enjoy the summer’s endless fun.

Imagine owning your own Gypsy Vanner…

E n jo y th e ir b ea u t y a n d g ra ce in t he rin g a n d a t h o me !

Derek & Denise Krause Ogdensburg, WI info@featheredgold.com www.featheredgold.com (715) 445-5345

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Kimberly Casey on SRS Just Bucking Around at Midwest Horse Fair.

Neighbors-August/September 2012

Your favorite color, your favorite size‌ big or small, we have them all!

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300

WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191

Neighbors-August/September 2012

LIVING IN HARMONY Wag Inn Kennel & Wildlife

By Ruth Johnson, Editor

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

The Garden of Eden is what I found when I visited Wag Inn Kennels, Custer, owned by Len & Ruthie Pliska.

Llamas, donkeys, bison, eight kinds of peacocks, black swans, emus, golden pheasants, ducks, geese, cavies, deer, antelope, tortoises, parrots, cranes, skunks, snakes, lemurs and more, roam around the pastures and fenced pens.

What is even more unusual is the harmony in which they co-exist. All of them are unusually tame, not wild at all, which is due to the love given to them by Len and Ruthie.

Len’s father, Roman, a wildlife enthusiast, started collecting unusual animals when Len was about eight years old, so Len grew up around them. When his father died, he bought the property from his mother and continued raising the animals and adding to the menagerie whenever he could.

(Continued on Page 42) Opposite Page: One of Len’s favorites and that of visitors is the lemurs, originally from Madagascar. Top: Len feed the head honcho of the bison herd by hand, something I never dreamt possible. Len’s son, Jeff, poses with his two boys (L-R) Nick and Roman. Right: My son, Dustin (pictured on page 43); daughter-in-law, Katie; granddaughter, Anna and grandson, Joe were visiting when I returned for more photos so I brought them along with me. They thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the animals like these lemurs, Katie and Anna’s favorites.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 41)

Wag Inn Kennels is still open and Len and Ruthie provide kennel services for pets. The Wildlife Ranch is closed to the public though because the couple is semi-retired and keeps the animals for their own family’s enjoyment.

In their heyday, however, they used to open it to schools around the area and kept busy showing all the children exotic species they would not normally see, touch or pet.

The animals live a peaceful existence, broken only by the occasional visitor, in their own private kingdom.

Top Left: The little deer entranced Joe. It is actually an exotic breed that is full-grown. He followed it all over the yard until finally it stopped and let him pet it. Top Right: Nick, Len’s grandson, holds one of the tortoises. This one moves rather fast, which was surprising. Middle: Here is one of the truly beautiful white peacocks. It was the only one I could get to fan its tail feathers.

Left: A peacock’s feathers are uncommonly beautiful, shining with an iridescent hue that is almost otherworldly. I had forgotten that peacocks can fly and was startled when this one flew into the tree. Below: Roman and Nick grew up handling snakes like the corn snakes draped over them.

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Neighbors-August/September 2012

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WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court, Westfield, WI 53964 Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191

Neighbors-August/September 2012

IMPROVING CREDIT Central City Credit Union (CCCU) Marshfield, Plover & Stevens Point

EXPLORING CREDIT UNION OPTIONS Recently, Christy Tanis of Plover did just that when she was considering buying her own home. She consulted with Christie Keen, a Central City Credit Union mortgage lender.

“I was searching for a different place to rent and my mom kept bugging me to see if I could get approved for a home loan,” said Tanis, a Central City Credit Union member for the past five years.

“When Christie Keen and I first met, I was so impressed by how much I learned about my credit score and what affects it.” Christie Keen told Christy Tanis that her score needed to be higher if she wanted to purchase a home.

HIDDEN IMPACT “Christie walked me through all the factors affecting my credit score,” stated Tanis. “I discovered the main thing weighing it down was an outstanding bill from California sent to a collection agency six years ago. A friend was supposed to handle that bill for me but did not and the balance remained unpaid, damaging my credit.”

“If I could get the collection agency to remove that bill from my credit score, my score would rise significantly."

Accountability. According to a report by Experian,

FINDING SOLUTIONS

a leading credit information service, Wisconsinites are generally, very responsible when managing their credit.

Keen helped Tanis obtain an installment loan so she could pay off the outstanding debt.

Experian’s annual nationwide credit review reveals that four of the top 10 American cities with the highest credit scores hail from the Badger state. Wausau is number one overall with a score of 789. Madison, Green Bay and La Crosse reached top 10 statuses this year as well.

What’s more, Keen helped successfully request the creditor to remove the bill entirely from Tanis’s credit record with swift, substantial results.

CREDIT IMPORTANCE Credit scores translate a consumer’s personal credit report into a simple number, which lenders use to evaluate the individual’s risk level.

Good or bad, our personal credit scores have a profound effect on the level of credit we can obtain and on the interest rates we pay when we take out a loan.

Although Wisconsin communities rate high overall, many individuals’ own credit scores still need improvement.

Fortunately, local credit unions serve as an important resource in helping those seeking to improve their credit.

Page 44

Within two months of the old debt’s removal from her credit record, one of Tanis’ credit scores rose by more than 90 points, and another more than 80 points.

“You don’t usually see credit scores go up that much in such a short time,” Keen said. “Occasionally, creditors will mark a bill paid, but this agency agreed to remove it altogether, which is what we asked. With the removal, it was as if it was never there. Otherwise, Tanis’ credit score would have taken much longer to go up.”

Keen believes that moving over revolving debt, like credit card balances, into an installment loan is a powerful tool for improving an individual’s credit.

(Continued on Page 45)

Neighbors-August/September 2012

(Continued from Page 44)

BEHIND THE SCENES The capacity available in your revolving accounts makes up 30 percent of your credit score, according to Keen. The sooner a balance is paid off and reported to the Credit Bureau, the quicker that available credit begins working in your favor.

“If you use an installment loan to pay off a credit card, it boosts the credit you still have available,” explains Keen, who advises clients to leave the credit card open once it is paid off. “If you close the credit card, the line of credit you just cleared, can’t work towards proving your capacity.”

“I tell people, cut it up if you do not want it or do not carry it, but do not close it. What hurts the most is when you max out your line of credit, which decreases your credit score.”

HANDSOME BENEFITS A strong credit score is important when securing financing for a home or other large purchases, Keen emphasizes.

The best rates on a mortgage are available to those with a credit score between 720 and 740, though the average person has a credit score of about 680. “With a score in the 700’s, you qualify for lower interest rates, creating a positive effect for years,” stresses Keen.

“At Central City Credit Union, we don’t just tell you your credit score; we explain it to you and give you advice and tips on steps you can take to improve it. If we end up arranging a 30-year mortgage for you, we want you to be able to earn favorable interest rates.”

Keen indicates that many people do not understand how credit works or how it can affect their individual score.

“For instance, consumers have a right to pull their credit score anytime without the request hurting their score in any way” Keen states. “If a person’s score is pulled by a creditor, however, it will show up as an inquiry and typically result in a hit of 2-5 points for each inquiry.

CONSIDERATIONS Another factor that can significantly affect a person’s credit score is a late payment.

Missing one payment, defined as being 30 days late, can affect your score for two years, Keen says. “When someone makes a payment to bring the account current, the person might recapture 80 percent of the damage, but the other 20 percent can take up to 24 months to rectify.”

“People don’t understand the impact of even one late payment,” Keen said.

Tanis said her meetings with Keen, taught her valuable lessons for maintaining her personal credit. She has yet to buy a house, but she was able to use her improved credit score to purchase a new vehicle as well as achieve some peace of mind.

Page 45

CONTACT CCCU: (715) 341-2522 loans@centralcitycu.com www.centralcitycu.com

“I definitely will keep working with Christie Keen and Central City Credit Union,” says Tanis. “Christi is super nice and willing to work with me,” Tanis said. “It isn’t a one-way street, though. You have to really do some work yourself but it is well worth the effort!”

Neighbors-August/September 2012

If you think you are, maybe it’s time for you to ask these questions: AM I PAYING TOO MUCH FOR MY LOAN? You might be if you are paying high loan rates. Meet with one of our lenders to compare your current loan rates with our low rates today, and check out your refinancing options. Wisconsin Credit Unions saved members $201,992,310 last year.* WHAT DOES MY CREDIT SCORE MATTER? Your credit score is one of the factors that determines your loan rate. A minor change in your credit score can mean thousands of dollars in interest charges. Our Certified Financial Counselors can work with you on a plan to improve your credit score, reduce debt, build a budget and improve your financial well being!

IS YOUR BANK CHARGING YOU OUTRAGEOUS FEES? Probably. Being not-for-profit & member owned, Credit Unions generally have better rates and lower fees than banks.*

Come to us for answers about your financial needs!

Join thousands of people like Ben Provisor, 2012 U.S Olympic Team member, who love their credit unions!

Central City Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration and is an Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. Membership eligibility required. Subject to credit approval. *Source: Scorecard for Wisconsin Credit Unions 2011

Locations in Marshfield, Stevens Point and Plover (715) 341-2522 loans@centralcitycu.com www.centralcitycu.com

Join the fun…

Icebreaker Party & Jerry Schmitt Band

Living Local Fall Festival

FRIDAY, SEPT 7 6–11pm FREE to Public Food, Drinks & Local Brews Available for Purchase

Amherst Fairgrounds, September 7-9, 2012

BRAND NEW EVENT! Held in conjunction with Celebrate Amherst River Fest   

FREE public admission and parking. Fun for all ages.

Free shuttles from Fairgrounds to downtown Amherst.

Many vendor prizes and drawings. Neighbors Magazine will draw the winner of their annual Grand Prize drawing for a John Deere D110 Riding Lawn Tractor (Register to win at www.faivre.com/neighbors_signup.php).



Vendor Expo Booths still available! ($100 per 8' x 10' booth). Call 715-341-3536 to sign up or further details.

Feathered Gold Stables Gypsy Vanner Horses

Live Show 1:00 PM SATURDAY, SEPT 8

SATURDAY, SEPT 8 

FREE to Public Held at the Grandstand Other demonstrations during the day.

 

10:00am-5:00pm Expo with Polka music, vendors, Spirit Med flight fly-in, seminars, interactive demonstrations..

Food, drinks and local brews available for purchase.

Kids’ activities galore!

SUNDAY, SEPT 9  

7:00-11:00am Pancake Breakfast with Polka music.

8:00am-1:00pm Expo with vendors, seminars and interactive demonstrations.

Compact Utility Tractors

get the job done right!

STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane, Stevens Point, WI 54482 Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300 Fax: (715) 592-6116 WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court Westfield, WI 53964 Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191 Fax: (608) 296-3912 www.faivre.com www.facebook.com/FaivreImpl www.twitter.com/faivreimpl

Since the introduction of John Deere’s

first steel plow over 170 years ago, horses have played an influential role in John Deere’s heritage.

John Deere’s commitment to horses and the land has never changed. Horse owners now use compact tractors equipped with forks and more, lawn tractors and Gators like our new 4-seater XUVs. These bad boys possess enough “horsepower” and 4x4 performance to travel where you want and still carry up to four people.

In honor of the equestrian world, Faivre Implement offers special discounts on equine-related products, merchandise and gifts through the John Deere Equine Association Discount Program: http://www.deere.com/en_US/CCE_promo/weg/discounts.html

Page 48

Neighbors- August/September 2012

Neighbors

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Great for gifts!

Central Wisconsin Rural & City Living

Pops in Print!

The printed version of Neighbors is even more beautiful than online and easier for some people to read!

Order your print subscription(s) of this gorgeous magazine featuring interesting stories from Central WI, mailed direct to you! $19.95 per Subscription (One Year = 6 issues)

$19.95/Subscription (One Year = 6 issues) Print this form, fill it out and mail it to us: Neighbors Magazine, 6832 Johnnies Lane, Stevens Point, WI 554482-8513. For more immediate processing, contact Ruth Johnson, ruth@faivre.com, (800) 622-2611.

YOUR INFORMATION: Name ______________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ City___________________________________________ ST_________ Zip ______________ Phone _____________________________________________________________________ Email ______________________________________________________________________

(We keep your email private and use it only to notify you when each issue is live online so you know your mailed subscription copy will arrive shortly thereafter.)

GIFT INFORMATION: (Be sure to complete the information above as the gift giver.)

Name ______________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ City___________________________________________ ST_________ Zip ______________ # SUBSCRIPTIONs ____ $19.95/each =$______________ total.

PAYMENT: Check Credit Card Card # ______________________________________________________________________ Expiration Date __________________ 3-Digit Security Code (on back of card) ______________ Name (if different) _____________________________________________________________ Authorized Signature _________________________________________________________ www.faivre.com/neighbors_signup.php

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www.faivre.com Merge our Ag Leader guidance technology with our John Deere tractors to capture the most from every input, pass across the field and acre you farm.

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Ag Leader’s hands-free steering lets an operator closely monitor all planting functions while the system’s technology maintains straight lines and insures repeatability.

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Trust Faivre Implement to provide the personal service you need to help get your job done right!

STEVENS POINT 6832 Johnnies Lane Toll-Free: (800) 622-2611 stevenspoint@faivre.com (715) 592-4300

WESTFIELD N6701 Harris Court Toll-Free: (800) 356-3337 westfield@faivre.com (608) 296-2191