Best of 2021

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

The votes are in...

The people have spoken!

BEST OF THE VALLEY 2021

Local Food & Drink Local Arts & Entertainment Local Services • Local Shopping Local Sports & Recreation

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THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021 www.osceolasun.com

BEST APPETIZER

2021

of the Valley

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3246 • 720 S. Vincent St. St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS x

FOR VOTING FOR US!

••• WINNER ••• BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE BEST PAINT STORE

The Watershed Café

Village Pizzeria

715-294-2638 99 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

BEST BLOODY MARY

2021

Osceola Lanes

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2275 • 104 North Cascade Steet • Osceola, WI

Osceola Lanes is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Osceola. It has a spacious outdoor patio, league bowling availability, and can host your party too.

FINALISTS Dalles House Restaurant

Tippy Canoes

715-483-3246 720 S. Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

2021

BEST BREAKFAST The Watershed Café

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2638 • 99 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FIND THE PERFECT COLOR RIGHT IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Dalles Café and Coffeehouse

Wayne’s Café

715-483-1161 113 S. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-3121 1961 U.S. Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

2021

of the Valley

BEST CHURCH MEAL Peace Lutheran Church

The Sun Country Messenger

715-755-2515 • 2355 Clark Road Dresser, WI

FINALISTS Alliance Church of the Valley

Zion Lutheran Church

715-483-1100 1259 WI-35 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-3489 252 WI-35 Osceola, WI

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Sample it and then save big on our best brands of paint. *Offer only available in-store via coupon on color sample pint lid. Valid on gallons of Benjamin Moore Regal® Select and ben®, Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines™, Clark+Kensington® and Royal® paint. Limit one $5 coupon per one gallon purchased at participating Ace Hardware stores. Valid on in-stock inventory only. Not valid on acehardware.com. Not valid on Benjamin Moore Aura® paint. No cash value. Additional exclusions may apply.

See store for additional details.

Bill’s Ace Hardware 202 Chieftrain St. Osceola WI • 715-284-3301

BEST CUP OF COFFEE 3 Arrow Coffee Company 715-483-7054 • 510 S Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

3 Arrows Coffee is the premier coffee shop and roastery in the St. Croix Valley. We offer a full complement of coffee drinks, tea, and other wonderful beverages and delicious baked goods. Our coffee, including our espresso, is roasted in house with the highest quality coffee beans sourced sustainably. Thank you for voting us “Best Cup of Coffee” in the valley.

FINALISTS Marine General Store

Caribou Coffee

651-433-2445 101 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

715-294-2158 112 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

3

www.osceolasun.com

BEST BAR

2021

Osceola Lanes

of the Valley

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2275 • 104 North Cascade Steet Osceola, WI

Osceola Lanes is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Osceola. It has a spacious outdoor patio, league bowling availability, and can host your party too.

FINALISTS Brookside Bar & Grill

Ward’s Bar

651-433-1112 140 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

715-755-2349 103 State Street Dresser, WI

BEST HAMBURGER

2021

Osceola Lanes of the Valley

715-294-2275 • 104 North Cascade Steet • Osceola, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

Osceola Lanes is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Osceola. It has a spacious outdoor patio, league bowling availability, and can host your party too.

BEST CHICKEN Sir Smokes A Lot BBQ Barn

The Sun Country Messenger

715-501-8187 • 1948 U.S. Hwy. 8 • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Village Pizzeria

Dick’s Fresh Market

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

715-294-2158 112 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

BEST BEER SELECTION

2021

Trap Rock Brewing Company

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-1338 • 520 N. Blanding Woods Road St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Brookside Bar & Grill

PY’s Bar & Grill

651-433-1112 140 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

715-294-3314 109 Cascade Street Osceola, WI

2021

BEST BBQ RIBS Sir Smokes A Lot BBQ Barn

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-501-8187 • 1948 U.S. Hwy. 8 • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

PY’s

UW Wanderoos

Tippy Canoes

715-483-3246 720 S. Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-3314 109 Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-268-9217 1629 70th Avenue Amery, WI

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

WINNER - Best Auto Repair THANK YOU for Voting for us!

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

2392 State Road 35 Osceola, WI • (715) 294-4700

4

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

www.osceolasun.com

BEST DELI

2021

Dick’s Fresh Market

Poco Loco Mexican Grill

of the Valley

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST FAST FOOD

2021

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2158 • 112 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

715-483-7007 • 2109 US Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS Horse Creek Store

Marine General Store

715-294-3410 2069 County Road X Star Prairie, WI

651-433-2445 101 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

BEST FISH FRY Country Messenger The Sun

Dairy Queen

715-294-3996 444 North Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-755-3217 98 N. Cascade Street, Osceola, WI 715-483-9217 2207 Glacier Drive, St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST FRENCH FRIES

2021

Village Pizzeria

of the Valley

Thiel’s American Pie

PY’s Saloon & Grill

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-755-2900 • 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

715-294-3314 • 109 Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Howlin’ Wolf Creek Bar

Brookside Bar & Grill

715-483-9255 2387 River Road St. Croix Falls, WI

651-433-1112 140 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

BEST ICE CREAM CONE

2021

Valley Sweets

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-7111 • 133 N Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

The Drive In Restaurant

Thiel’s American Pie

651-465-7831 572 Bench Street Taylor’s Falls, MN

715-294-3996 444 North Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST HAPPY HOUR

2021

of the Valley

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3246 • 720 S. Vincent Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

Nelson’s Ice Cream

Thiel’s American Pie

651-430-1103 920 Olive Street W Stillwater, MN

715-294-3996 444 North Cascade Street Osceola, WI

Tippy Canoes

PY’s

715-294-4777 1020 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-3314 109 Cascade Street Osceola, WI

2021

WINNER

of the Valley

THANK YOU to everyone who voted for us!

The Sun Country Messenger

BEST ANTIQUE STORE

Open 7 Days a week: M-Th 10-5 • Fri-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5

117 Cascade St, Osceola • 715-294-2886

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

5

www.osceolasun.com

BEST LUNCH

2021

The Watershed Café

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2638 • 99 N Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

BEST FIRST DATE RESTAURANT

2021

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3246 • 720 S. Vincent Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

Village Pizzeria

Sir Smokes A Lot BBQ Barn

The Watershed Café

Village Pizzeria

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

715-501-8187 1984 U.S. Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-2638 99 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

BEST STIR FRY

2021

Lucky Panda

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3533 • 217 N Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

2021

TellaStory Photography

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-497-3588 • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS Panda King

The Vegetarian

John Schletty Photography

Wendy Maybury

715-483-2611 2201 Glacier Drive St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-2800 109 S. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

St. Croix Falls, WI

Minneapolis, MN

BEST CHEESE CURDS

2021

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

of the Valley

2021

of the Valley

BEST TAKE OUT RESTAURANT Thiel’s American Pie

The Sun Country Messenger

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3996 • 444 N. Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

715-483-3246 • 720 S. Vincent Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS Osceola Lanes

Meister’s Bar & Grill

Poco Loco Mexican Grill

Sir Smokes A Lot BBQ Barn

715-294-2275 104 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

651-433-5230 14808 Oakhill Road N. Scandia, MN

715-483-7007 2109 U.S. Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-507-8187 1984 U.S. Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

WINNER Best Greenhouse/Nursery

WINNER Best Local Band/Musician 2021

Locally Owned, Independent Nursery & Garden Center

3 LOCATION S TO SERVE YOU B E T T E R ST. CROIX FALLS: SCANDIA: STILLWATER: 1257 State Rd. 35 20021 St. Croix Trail 2100 Tower Dr St. Croix Falls, WI Scandia, MN Stillwater, MN 715-483-3040 651-433-2431 651-439-2140

www.abrahamsonnurser ie s. co m

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Thank you Osceola and the entire river valley for this honor!

Samantha Grimes

6

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

BEST TACOS

2021

Fiesta Loca

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

BEST DRY CLEANER/LAUNDROMAT

2021

Osceola Cleaners

of the Valley

715-294-2580 • 967 WI-35 • Dresser, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3634 • 201 2nd Avenue • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Poco Loco Mexican Grill

Cascade BP Deli

St. Croix Laundry & Carwash

Valley Suds

715-483-7007 2109 US Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-4086 97 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-483-3980 402 N. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-755-3777 210 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

BEST WALLEYE DINNER

2021

Dalles House Restaurant

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3246 • 720 S Vincent Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST BED AND BREAKFAST

2021

Dr. Combacker’s AirBnB

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Third Avenue • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

UW Wanderoos

Tippy Canoes

St. Croix Valley Inn

Pleasant Lake B and B

715-268-9217 1629 70th Avenue Amery, WI

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-494-1677 305 River Street Osceola, WI

715-294-2545 2238 60th Ave Osceola, WI

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST SOUP

BEST PIZZA

2021

Village Pizzeria 715-755-2900 • 101 WI-35 • Dresser, WI

FINALISTS

Thiel’s American Pie

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3996 • 444 North Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

The Watershed Café

Dalles House Restaurant

Village Pizzeria

Pizza Planet

715-294-2638 99 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-483-3246 720 S Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

715-483-3366 2071 Glacier Drive St. Croix Falls, WI

2021

WINNER

of the Valley

Best Pharmacist

The Sun Country Messenger

WINNER Best Butcher

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messeng

er

Thanks for voting for us!

Thank You for voting for us!

1980 US Hwy 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 715-483-3386 www.swanksmeats.com

124 N. Washington Street • St. Croix Falls

715-483-3271

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

7

www.osceolasun.com

BEST STEAK DINNER

2021

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3246 • 720 S Vincent Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Tangled Up in Blue

Tippy Canoes

651-465-1000 425 Bench Street Taylors Falls, MN

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

2021

Osceola Lanes

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2275 • 104 North Cascade Steet • Osceola, WI

Osceola Lanes is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Osceola. It has a spacious outdoor patio, league bowling, and can host your party too.

BEST SALAD

FINALISTS

Village Pizzeria

The Watershed Café

Brookside Bar & Grill

715-294-2638 99 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

651-433-1112 140 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

2021

715-755-2900 • 101 WI-35 • Dresser, WI

FINALISTS The Watershed Café

Tippy Canoes

715-294-2638 99 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST DOCTOR

2021

Dr. Melissa Hall

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST PLACE TO WATCH SPORTS

2021

Osceola Lanes

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2275 • Cascade Street • Osceola, WI Osceola Lanes is a bowling alley, restaurant and bar in the heart of downtown Osceola. It has a spacious outdoor patio, league bowling, and can host your party too.

St. Croix Regional Medical Center • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS

FINALIST

Jennifer Belisle, MD

Dr. Erika Helgerson

Osceola Medical Center Osceola, WI

Osceola Medical Center Osceola, WI

Tippy Canoes

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-483-3246 720 S. Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

RUSTIC R O O T S WINERY 2021

alley ee V of thTh Sun

FINALIST Best Deli Best Place to Work

ssenger

Country Me

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Thank you for voting for us for Best Wine Selection.

rusticroots.wine

651.433.3311 • 20168 St. Croix Trail N

• Deli • Fresh Produce • Bakery • Organic/GF • Groceries Firewood & Camping Gear • Local Products • Gifts

101 Judd Street • Marine on St. Croix, MN 651-433-2445 • www.marinegeneralstore.com

8

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

BEST SUB/SANDWICH

2021

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

BEST MASSAGE THERAPIST

2021

Village Pizzeria of the Valley

Jennifer Putz

of the Valley

The Sun Country Messenger

The Sun Country Messenger

715-755-2900 • 101 State Road 35 Dresser, WI

715-294-2111 • Osceola Medical Center Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

FINALISTS Subway

Tippy Canoes

Danielle Larson

Hit the Stage Day Spa

715-294-4461 402 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-3744 207 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

125 N Washington Street 715-483-1797 St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST RESTAURANT

2021

BEST EYE DOCTOR

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge of the Valley

Dr. April Smith of the Valley

715-483-3246 • 720 S Vincent Street St. Croix Falls, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2500 • 304 3rd Avenue Osceola, WI

Country Messenger The Sun

FINALISTS

Dr. Sandra Dolphin

Village Pizzeria

The Watershed Café

715-755-2900 101 WI-35 Dresser, WI

715-294-2638 99 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-483-3259 • 135 S. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST HEALTHCARE FACILITY

2021

Osceola Medical Center

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

At St. Croix Falls Associates, your vision is important to us and we use the best equipment possible to diagnose your eye-related condition. Whether you need a stronger contact prescription, new glasses, or are interested in laser eye treatment, we can help you. We have highly qualified doctors and knowledgeable staff who are more than excited to help care for your eyes, using state-of-the-art ophthalmic equipment. We offer a wide range of eye-related services. Please call one of our offices in St. Croix Falls, Grantsburg, Webster, Frederic or Balsam Lake to schedule an appointment. You can trust that St. Croix Falls Associates will take care of you.

FINALIST

715-294-2111 • 2600 65th Avenue Osceola, WI

Dr. Larry Tran

FINALISTS

St. Croix Regional Medical Center

Amery Hospital and Clinic

715-483-3261 235 E State Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-268-8000 265 Griffin Street Amery, WI

715-483-3259 135 S Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

Reach the largest g audience in the valley COUNTRY

Va ey since 1897 Croiixx Vall Serving Polk County’s St.

COUNTRY

2021 WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, $1.00

Serving Marine on St. Croi

VOL. 124 NO. 6 www.osceolasun.com

win-Woodville. PAGE 11 SPORTS: OHHSS tennis beats Bald

Serving Polk County’s St. since nd1897 weeke thisValley ceola Croix Wheels and Winggs returns to OsSPORTS: Osceola football remains undefeated. PAGE 11

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2021 VOL. 124 NO. 7 www.osceolasun.com $1.00

, judges import, modern classic Cars can demonstrano air show or aeriall choice and best in show. herr than the wheelsandtions of any kind oth preregister online at dar he Rad d th day of. helicopter rides, and wings.org or on site the limited anceled. In are been ca also spaces has the Run er, Howev back in adar Run fee to Wheels and Wings is previous years, the R to the first 800 cars. The d after being cks arss, truc Osceola this weeken and if you register on $10 saw all manner of ca is enter ile m arter cash, as cancelled in 2020. th and bikes racing a qua LO Sisite you’ll need to bring acceptrsaay at not This year is the 40 annivewill stretch of the runwa checks and cards are vie which to t r o p tion, r ir run A will celebra ipal the ry of menstad Munic ed. Stardust Car Shows Saturday, year begin at 7:30 a.m. this for the fastest time. the car show again this afety ed sa ite nced car September 11.

Event organizers cit with a team of experie feature and dedicated to The annual event will ns as well ass financiial iasts concer enthus show and rides aints for classic cars, helicopter from the volunteer capacity constra ation, parking and having vents.

BYregistr C.L. SILL ese eve es will also an on the ground display from the cancelation of the a great time.Motorcyl Force cycle show EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM orc Commemorative Air The car and moto be included at the show.

Paul, Minn. wing though, helicopter Flemming field in St. will be back in fulll sw erre are On the aviation side, e h T . s es i The Osceola town board is once entri 700 There will also be a pancak g. with over w otrying he sho n tagain ies in , PAGE 9 to fi ll an open superbreakfast Saturday mornin categor WHEELS SEE seven s to the r, hot rod, , muscle car visor position, as well as the clerk There are a few change classic — be will schedule this year. There position.

BY C.L. SILL EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

BY C.L. SILL EDITOR@COUNTRYMESSENG ER.COM

The 97th Annual Oscewill ola Community Fair l be kicking off its annua events on Friday, Septem ber 10th. For three days, be the fairgrounds will ne home to fun for everyo s, with traditional exhibit live music, rides, food , court and beer garden truck and tractor pulls, corMiss and Little Miss a onations and the Osceol Grand Parade.

The fair grounds are adfree with all to open mission. Showcase your the talents or appreciate efforts of others in the fair building where you -wincan check out ribbon by ed master ning skills our local residents from gardening, baking, sewing, painting, and more. in Exhibits can be viewed 12:30 the fair building from , p.m. until 8 p.m. Friday day Saturday during the the h throug Sunday and sses parade. Local busine ofand organizations also learn fer an opportunity to often more about them and and have some giveaways gs. prize drawin If truck or tractor pulls come are more your speed,

Most mushroom hunter would sell their grandm s other to a tribe of malnourished cannibals rather than reveal their best hunting locatio ns.

It’s one of the most secreti outdoor pursuits — possibl ve y the most. Which makes running a business that teaches people all about wild mushrooms while mainta ining the secrecy of your own spots a little tricky.

Minnesota native Mike Kempenich is the founde the Gentlemen Forage r of r. He sells wild harvested as well as cultivated mushrooms commercially, and also hosts wild mushroom identifi fication classes and other inform tional get-togethers that ahelp people explore wild foods.

He is hosting one of those classes this Sunday, Septem ber 26 at the Marine Mills Folk School.

There will be a mushr oom ID

THE SUN

Simensbe on display at the L.O. Cars and motorcycles will on Saturday. tad Airport in Osceola

ay Community Faair starts Frid

CAFO resolution passes 13-1

BY APRIL ZIEMER ESS.COM EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPR

how conCitizens concerned about operations centrated animal feeding County Polk (CAFOs) could affect concerns to their voicing been have of Supervisors.

CLSILL | THESUN the Polk County Board county to adopt a Some have urged the field County.

Bayfi resolution similar to isors did just In a 13-1 vote, superv that. nmental Protection Enviro The U.S. The long awaited Osceola Veterans Memorial was dedicated on Saturday Sept.11, the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks. The CAFO as an animal fines aand Agency SEE TOWN, PAGE 13 project has been underway for over adefi decade, its completion was celebrated as part of the weekend of festivities in Osceola. with more feeding operation (AFO) animal THE SUN 1000 animal units (an than on Sunday at 1 p.m. as an animal equivfi unit is defined 2019. The parade will be in parade the in live weight and d particcipated and ba alent of 1000 pounds Osceola Middle School cattle, beef of equates to 1000 head Cascade Street. ! Get swine weighing is the pop-up arcade 700 dairy cows, 2500 special where a $20 wristthousand broiler ce on your game on playing t, more than 55 lbs, 125 tractor pull takes plac Komba band means all the rides nd laying hens am.

11a 6 p.m. Pac-Man, Mortal chickens, or 82 thousa Saturday starting at All you can handle from ng fi d on site for more vin Centipede, and more. ) confine pullets or want you Or get those legs mov If until 10 p.m. the year. Any or pull proceeds from the pop-up ay, than 45 days during Saturd with the pedal tracto on d back donate come to rges manure or ls on arcade are being size AFO that discha on Sunday. For detail opens at g Shows buildin l or manStipe’s new egto the fair’s ay wastewater into a natura the pulls including re noon offering a Saturd other waterway fees, fund. made ditch, stream or istration times and fe special for $20 hot less of d more, wristband Enjoy cold beer and as a CAFO, regard

BY APRIL ZIEMER primarily regulated leaves begin to show fi is defined admission rates, and from noon until 4 p.m. in the beer garden and . e food EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM by the calendar as websit or are produced. The fair also size. the are visit Individual tickets g of the SuperHere, you’ll also nights become longer. extent of red color and At the August meetin se. The food court.

The midway will be featuravailable for purcha made to bring ng at nin find the Main Stage on activities Other environmental length of time leaf visors, a motion was As summer open opening Friday even are d rides Urgy tion weeken midwa Resolu hows ing live music all Resolution No. 39-21: begin to wind down, influences, such as color is displayed, is need to you 5 p.m. with Stipe’s Sh if too, takes , e e” Sunday Tailgat nd tralong. “Drop the residents of northwesttemperature, rainfall directly related to temamusement rides an in one more spin on get s n o io s ern Wisconsin begin and food supply are perature and moisture ditional fair conces

to turn their attention to fall campfires, apple orchards, pumpkin patches and some of the best fall color displays in the nation.

The beauty of Wisconsin’s fall colors is attributed to the mix of

as unvarying as the steadily increasing length of night during autumn. As days grow shorter, and nights grow longer and cooler, biochemical processes in the leaf begin to paint the landscape

conditions that occur before and during the period when the amount of chlorophyll in the leaves is diminishing.

The best leaf displays follow a period of warm days filled

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22,

2021 VOL. 38 NO. 21 www.countrymessen ger.com $.75

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2021

VOL. 38 NO. 20 www.countrymessenger.com $.75

Sunday

class, followed by an afternoon in the field harves ting wild mushrooms. The day will be capped off by sampli ng the day’s harvest with help from a local chef. For more information on how to attend, the Gentlemen Forage visit r on Facebook.

By far the most commo n question Kempenich gets at

BY LESLIE MACKENZIE his classes as well as online is CONTRIBUTING WRITER “Where are you fi finding all the good mushrooms?”

Marine Activities Kempenich always gives • Dark Sky Event at Marine Elementary School the same answer — Luvern e, playground, Fri. Sept 17, 8 pm, featuring guest Minn. speaker meteorologist Mike Lynch.

Luverne is a small town A one-day hazardous waste/electronics the far Southwest corner • in of and document shredding event is Minnesota, surroundedcollection by the eastern edge of the scheduled for Sat., Sept. 18, 8 am to 2 pm at 19987 Great Plains. There’s about Fitzgerald Trail N., in Forest Lake. four trees in the entire town • Hugo will hold a similar collection day on and it’s one of the last placesSat., Oct 2, 8 am to noon, at 6900 137th St. N., in the state where you’d Hugo. find fi mother-load of any kind •the of Downtown Stormwater Tour, Sat., Oct. 2, wild mushroom.

9-10:30 am. Mike Isensee, director of the Carne“I’ve often wanted to lian-Marine-St. Croix Watershed District, will call the explain Marine’s new green infrastructure.

SEE FORAGER, PAGE 2 • Marine Mills Folk School Welcome Back ExMike Kempen ich, Gentleman Forager will travaganza, Sat., Oct. 2,the 10founder am to 2ofpm. day, Septem SUBMITTED be hossting s ber 26 the Marine Mills a mushroom Identific fi ation class this SunFolk School.

• Marine Street Danceat and Fire Department Benefit, Sat., Oct 2, 2-5 pm, on Judd St. • Marine Heavy Metal collection day is Sat., Oct 16, 9 am to noon.

Marine September Council meeting

November Council Meeting Date Change The November Marine Council meeting will be moved from Nov. 11 to Nov. 10 in observance of Veteran’s Day.

Veterans memorial dedication

Fall breeze brings colored leaves

ip

Gentlemen Forager coming to Maa OPINION: Hunt envy. PAGE 4 rinne this

Serving Marine on St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

Town board seeks replacement supervisor, clerk

Following a contentious monthly meeting in August, longtime supervisor Mike Wallis and newly hired clerk Melissa Johnson both announced their resignations.

“Mike Wallis has decided it is time to focus more of his time and energy on family, career and other important people and aspects of his life,” said board chairman Dale Lindh in a written statement to the board.

Wallis had served on the town board for over a decade.

Melissa Johnson had just recently accepted the clerk position and had been appointed during the July 6 meeting. She becomes part of a growing club of clerks to resign in recent years.

Johnson was the fifth person to hold the clerk position since Lorraine Rugroden left in 2019. This does not include individuals who

x, Scandia, May Townsh

OPINION: Illusi Ill on off wild ldness ss.. PAGE 4

Road Work

ELISE BOURNE | COUNTRY MESSENGER

Taco Daze 2021 Midieval combat was on display at this year’s Taco Daze in Scandia last Saturday. Among some of the other attractions were a pickle ball tournament and classics like the car show and running of the meatballs.

Road paving in downtown Marine will be completed the week of Sept. 13, with striping to follow 7-10 days later.

Preliminary design work has begun for the reconstruction of the Osceola/Highway 243 Bridge. Construction is expected to take place in 2025-2026.

Public invited to paranormal strangeness Join J Johnsdale Parano kiick offfff the Halloween rmal Group as they season at the Washin gton Co ounty y Historic Courthouse with some paranormal str

rrangeness 8 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 2.

Emerald Ash Borer Grant Justin n Miner and his group of investigators Marine’s Urban Forest Committee has been wiill be rrecounting some of their most hair-ra approved by the DNR for an $8,190 grant to help ing isg expe eriences with ghostly phenomenon in a pay for removal of 12 publicly owned ash trees lo- one-hou hou ur public presentation.

PATTI RAY | SCANDIA CITY COUNCIL Participants will MEMBER cated in the village center, by the school, and in hav ve the e opportunity to see and the cemetery. These trees are vulnerable to Emi en ide nce c captured on their audio hear creepy evand video equiperald Ash Borer (EAB), which was fi rst detected m e n t fro o om some of the most On Wednesday, Septem noted paranormal ber 15th, Scandia’s Mayor hottspotss in the Midwe Christine Maefsky andin Scandia in 2015 and then by Square Lake in dia’s Elementary’s Principa st. They will be reveali City Council l Julie Hull and 5th grade the th ng 2020.

EAB Membe infestation 100% fatal to ash trees. e findiiings from their r Patti is Ray will present The $200 check will be teacher Kaitlyn Crawfor April investigation of Scanawarded because Ms. Crawfor d withcongratulating Hisstoric a giant check worth the While the committee for its c Courthouse itself. $200 contest at Lilleskogen from Midco.

Park by receiving the greates d’s student Derek Kaiser won the Midco The prrogram securing funds, Mayor Kevin Nyenhuis o Day children is $5 per person. Registr t number of votes forwork ’s Internet story his story ation “Garytoand is re equirred, r asked them begin preparing the community the Slow and it is limited to 50 Internet”.

Midco sponpartici pants.

Fac ce massks s are required for for the loss of these significant and beautiful both vaccinated and trees. “When trees go down, emotions go up,” he said.

The Urban Forest Committee will begin a tree ribboning and public education campaign after the grant contract is signed. Tree removal will occur in 2022.

Dark Sky Equinox event:Giant Check Award from Midco star gazing learning, celebration 8:00 p.m., Fri., Sept. 17 (18 rain date) Marine Elementary School Grounds

BY NANCY COSGRIFF

Short Term Rental Request Approved People from our past can come

The Country Messenger in Washington County and The Sun in Polk County reach 12,688 every week Print audience – 2,725 subscribers and newsstands Digital audience – 5,609 page views • Social audience – 4,354 follows Let us help you reach the audience that matters.

The Council approved the application for a

COUNTRY

Serving Marine on St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

ads@osceolasun.com Office: 715-294-2314 Cell: 651-361-0629

Elise Bourne

Advertising & Marketing

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

9

www.osceolasun.com

BEST DENTIST

2021

BEST ASSISTED LIVING

2021

Dr. Amin Uddin

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Christian Community Homes of the Valley

715-483-5026 • 230 S. Washington Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Dr. Tom Hauge

Dr. Kristina Noding

715-294-2202 108 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

715-294-3303 215 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST PLACE TO WORK/LARGE

2021

Osceola Medical Center

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2111 • 2600 65th Avenue • Osceola, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-1100 • 2650 65th Avenue • Osceola, WI

Christian Community Homes of Osceola is a place of care, guidance and security; a place of individual choice, dignity and respect. Simply put, a place to call home. Together, Christian Community Homes and Services (CCHS) has over 30 years of experience in award-winning senior services and 75 years of personal, quality health care delivered by Osceola Medical Center (OMC) form a solid foundation for this campus. Built on the 134-acre campus of OMC, CCH of Osceola consists of a 40-bed skilled nursing facility and a 20-bed assisted living facility, licensed as a Community Based Residential Facility.

FINALISTS Royal Oaks

Eagle Ridge Senior LIving

715-294-1600 304 8th Avenue E. Osceola, WI

715-294-8000 101 Ridge Road Osceola, WI

FINALISTS St. Croix Regional Medical Center

Bending Branches

715-483-3261 235 E. State Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-755-3405 812 Prospect Court Osceola, WI

BEST PLACE TO WORK/SMALL

2021

The Watershed Café

of the Valley

715-294-2638 • 99 N. Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

FINALISTS Marine General Store

Tippy Canoes

651-433-2445 101 Judd Street Marine on St. Croix, MN

715-294-4777 1020 N. Cascade Street Osceola, WI

2021

BEST PHARMACIST

2021

Tangen Drug of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3271 • 124 N Washington Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

Tangen Drug is a quaint, small town pharmacy located on Main Street in downtown St. Croix Falls. We have a large selection of gifts, candies, and over the counter medications and supplies. We have friendly pharmacists and other staff members who are always willing to help you with your needs.

Our motto: We are a small town pharmacy with big hearts.

FINALISTS Osceola Medical Center

St. Croix Regional Medical Center

715-294-2111 2600 65th Avenue Osceola, WI

715-483-3261 235 E. State Street St. Croix Falls, WI

WINNER Best Wine Selection

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

A wonderful place to relax and enjoy award-winning wines.

Featuring...

A spacious tasting room; Beautiful outdoor deck; Covered patio; Fun events and festivals; and, Great tasting wine

We Are Passionate About Great Wine!

DancingDragonflyWinery.com • 2013 120TH AVE. ST. • CROIX FALLS, WI • 715.483.9463

10

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

BEST WINE SELECTION

2021

Dancing Dragonfly Winery

of the Valley

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

BEST NURSE

2021

Erica Seibenthal

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

The Sun Country Messenger

St. Croix Regional Medical Center • St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-9463 • 2013 120th Avenue • St. Croix Falls, WI Dancing Dragonfly Winery is the perfect spot to enjoy great wine and quality time with friends and loved ones. Our spacious tasting room is open 361 days a year. We offer award winning wines, paired tastings, wine by the glass or bottle, and many savory food options. Dancing Dragonfly Winery also hosts a variety of fun events, such as comedy shows, concerts, art classes, and festivals. Visit DDWinery.com for the complete event calendar, hours, and more information. Reservations recommended.

FINALISTS Margie Johnson

Jan Haley

Osceola Medical Center Osceola, WI

St. Croix Regional Medical Center St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST MANUFACTURER

FINALISTS Valley Spirits

Rustic Roots Winery

715-294-4240 209 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

651-433-3311 20168 St. Croix Trail N. Scandia, WI

2021

Country Messenger The Sun

BEST PLACE TO GET MARRIED Croix View Farm

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Bending Branches

of the Valley

715-755-3405 • 812 Prospect Court • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS Polaris Industries Inc.

Industrial Tool & Plastics, Inc.

715-294-3370 108 Industrial Drive Osceola, WI

715-483-3086 531 S Blanding Woods Road St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-1566 • 96 280th Street • Osceola, WI

BEST TEACHER

2021

The greatest memories begin at the barn at Croix-view Farm.

We offer different options depending on your dream of your perfect wedding day. Croix-View is also a perfect location for your company picnic, charity event or other special event that is in need of a location with a little something extra. Let us work with you and your budget to make your event stylish and memorable! Follow us on Instagram @croixviewfarm

Denise Sinclair-Todd

of the Valley

St. Croix Falls School District

The Sun Country Messenger

FINALISTS

FINALISTS Big Rock Creek

Sunflower Hill Wedding & Event

715-501-8172 1674 WI-87 St. Croix Falls, WI

651-983-8146 1265 220th Street St. Croix Falls, WI

The Lundgrens

Josh Marincel

Lisa Richert

Osceola School District

Osceola School District

THANK YOU to all who voted for us!

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

• Furnaces - Boilers • Radiant In-Floor Heat • Air Conditioning - Mini Splits • Gas/Oil/Electric - Dual Fuel - Heat Pumps

We’re honored to have served the St. Croix River Valley for over 27 years and are truly humbled by your support.

“Our Clients Are #1!”

With Sincere Thanks,

Jean & Erin

Licensed in WI & MN

Cell: 651-308-2221 Office: 715-294-4373 jeanlundgren@gmail.com www.jeanlundgren.com

• Specialist in Air Quality • Geothermal Systems • Residential/Commercial

48 Years of Satisfied Customers!

• 24 Hour Service

21260 Olinda Trail N.

651-433-5167 www.scandiaheating.com

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

11

www.osceolasun.com

BEST SWIMMING BEACH

2021

Interstate State Park

of the Valley

St. Croix Falls WI

The Sun Country Messenger

FINALISTS Sand Lake

Dalles Lake

Dresser, WI

St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST CAR WASH

2021

Valley Suds

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-755-3777 • 210 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

of the Valley

St. Croix Laundry & Carwash

715-483-5950 2091 Glacier Drive St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-3980 402 N. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST CHILD CARE

2021

Little Saints Childcare Center of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-557-0189 • 2355 Clark Road Dresser, WI

FINALIST Bee Haven Childcare 715-497-3588 Osceola, WI

The Clubhouse Childcare/Preschool

Osceola Auto Sales & Service

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-4700 • 2392 State Road 35 • Osceola, WI

At Osceola Auto Sales, customer satisfaction is the key to our success. We offer a simple and stress-free shopping experience with a wide selection of quality used cars, trucks, and SUVs. Our team strives for excellence by assuring each customer finds a vehicle that will fit their lifestyle and budget. For quality and service you can trust, shop with us here at Osceola Auto Sales and Service!

FINALISTS Complete Automotive

Denny’s Auto

715-755-2511 522 Northeast Avenue Dresser, WI

715-755-3500 939 WI-35 Dresser, WI

FINALIST Holiday Stationstores

BEST AUTO REPAIR

2021

2021

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE Bill’s Ace Hardware

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3301 • 202 Chieftain Street • Osceola, WI

At Bill’s Ace Hardware, we are all committed to being “the Helpful Place” by offering our customers knowledgeable advice, helpful service and quality products. As the helpful hardware folks in your community, we promise that, “helping you is the most important thing we have to do today.”

FINALISTS J&S General Contracting

The Chocolate Gnome

651 WI-35 715-294-2748 Osceola, WI

651-335-0189 201 Third Avenue Osceola, WI

12

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

BEST FINANCIAL PLANNER

2021

Matt Fisk - Edward Jones

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-706-1153 • 2393 WI-35 Suite A Osceola, WI

FINALISTS Edward Jones/Rebecca Berg 715-483-1103 144 N. Washington Street Ste. A St. Croix Falls, WI

Tim Pauley/The RiverGroup/ Financial Advisors 715-294-2187 201 3rd Avenue, Osceola, WI

BEST WEBSITE

2021

The Sun

of the Valley

715-294-2314 • 108 Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

BEST HEATING/AC

2021

Furnace Doctor

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2899 • 2628 40th Avenue • Osceola, WI

I would like to extend a sincere thank you to all who voted for Furnace Doctor. We are extremely grateful for our loyal customers and their constant referral network; it is always exciting to work with your friends and family too. I greatly appreciate the continued opportunities to serve the local community and its members. I would also like to welcome any new customers to experience Furnace Doctor as we pride ourselves on offering premium solutions to help set your mind at ease.

We are looking forward to serving the community for many years to come.Lastly, I need to take a minute to thank my loyal employees Allison, Andrew, and Tony for their hard work and dedication.

Along with my parents, brother, sisters, and brothers-in-law for their help and support when needed, usually on short notice. Sincerely, with love, Michael Rixmann, Furnace Doctor

FINALISTS Scandia Heating & AC

Torch Heating & AC, LLC

651-433-5167 21260 Olinda Trail N Scandia, MN

612-817-5863 1015 195th Street Dresser, WI

FINALISTS Material Jane

Festival Theatre

Osceola, WI

715-483-3387 125 N. Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST JEWELER

2021

La Jewelry LaDy

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST PAINT STORE

2021

Bill’s Ace Hardware

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3301 • 202 Chieftain Street • Osceola, WI At Bill’s Ace Hardware, we are all committed to being “the Helpful Place” by offering our customers knowledgeable advice, helpful service and quality products. As the helpful hardware folks in your community, we promise that, “helping you is the most important thing we have to do today.”

715-475-9784 • 135 S Washington Street #3 • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Mueller Jewelers 651-213-1010 11425 Brink Avenue Chisago City, MN

J. Kessler Jewelry 715-268-8242 211 Keller Avenue Amery, WI

2021

alley ee V of thTh Sun ssenger

Country Me

WINNER Best Place to get Married

FINALISTS Menards

Lampert Lumber

715-483-5000 1285 208th St St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-3229 2213 US-8 St. Croix Falls, WI

Lifestyle Choices for Seniors…

“Your Life, Your Style”

WINNER! • Best Assisted Living/ Senior Care Facility

2021

Finalist of the Valley

• Best Retirement/ 888

Independent <

2

Facility

Living

The Sun Country Messenger

Thank you for voting for us!

“Croix-View farm is an absolutely beautiful venue! Sara is so friendly, laidback and helpful!! We would highly recommend CroixView farm to anyone thinking of getting married at a barn venue!”

• 2021 Openings & Beyond 0DQ\ SDFNDJH RSWLRQV DYDLODEOH WR ¿W \RXU EXGJHW 6HDWLQJ IRU XS WR 5XVWLFDOO\ HOHJDQW VHWWLQJ LQ D \HDU ROG GDLU\ EDUQ &HQWUDOO\ ORFDWHG IRU HDV\ KRWHO DFFRPPRGDWLRQV %RRN \RXU WRXU WRGD\ 'DWHV DUH ¿OOLQJ IDVW

715-294-1566 • croixviewfarm@gmail.com • www.croixviewfarm.com

Christian Community Home of Osceola & Hearthside Assisted Living 2650 65th Ave., Osceola, WI 54020 715-294-1100 Call us today for more information 715-294-1100 www.cchosceola.org

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

www.osceolasun.com

Thank you to our staff and customers!

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS! Wild Bird Feeders, Custom Bird Seed, Outdoor Garden Décor & Home Furnishings Marine On St. Croix • 651-433-2593 • 9 - 5:30 Mon. - Sat. • 11 - 5 Sunday • OPEN ALL YEAR

WINNER - BEST GIFT STORE 2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

13

14

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

www.osceolasun.com

BEST MECHANIC

2021

Jake Rodke

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST HAIR STYLISTS

2021

Kim Stoll

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Somerset Auto Dealer • Somerset, WI

715-755-3799 • 2374 State Road 35 • Osceola, WI

We’re a small town dealership focused on high quality service, fair prices and putting customers first. We sell & service all makes/models and also have the ability to customize or accessorize anything you want! Mild to Wild!!! Trucks, cars, SUV’s, ATV’s & UTV’s... We service, repair and customize them all!!!

FINALISTS Morgan Olson

Kate Erickson

715-294-2333 204 Second Avenue Osceola, WI

715-294-2985 406 Thye Trail Dresser, WI

FINALISTS Grant Buck

Justin Taylor

Osceola, WI

Taylor Auto Repair, LLC Osceola, WI

BEST LAWYER

2021

Kate Murtaugh of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

2021

715-483-9818 – 303 Polk Pkw • St Croix Falls, WI

BEST RETIREMENT FACILITY FINALISTS The Royal Oaks

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-1600 • 304 8th Avenue E • Osceola, WI

Moria Ludvigson Sirovatka

Priscilla Dorn Cutler

715-294-4950 215 N Cascade St Osceola, WI

715-755-3161 202 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

For those seniors that want to enjoy a maintenance free lifestyle, the freedoms that come with living independently, and the comfort of knowing help is just a few steps away, The Royal Oaks Senior Living in Osceola Wisconsin is the place to be! With 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for rent for seniors, the Royal Oaks is located in a beautiful residential area within walking distance from churches, banks, grocery store, library, the park, and more! Rent includes daily noon meal, paid utilities, weekly light housekeeping, fireplace and TV lounges, convenient indoor mail drop, centrally located elevator, fully equipped laundry facilities on each floor, limited access entrance and bay windows,

FINALISTS

BEST PET GROOMER

2021

Heidi’s Paw Spa of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-497-9737- • 103 2nd Ave • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

Christian Community Homes

Forest Heights

Pretty Paws Dog Grooming

Pinky’s Dog Grooming

715-294-1100 2650 65th Avenue Osceola, WI

651-766-4300 408 N. Tower Road St. Croix Falls, WI

715-417-2762 357 280th Street Osceola, WI

651-257-7489 25456 Redwing Ave Shafer, MN

I am humbled and grateful for our customers! Cheers to you and to 27 years!

From All of us and Meiomi at Scandia Olde Towne Liquor.

BEST LIQUOR STORE

2021

FINALIST

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

21190 Ozark Ave N Scandia, MN • 651-433-5845 Hours: Monday - Thursday 8am - 9pm Friday & Saturday, 8am - 10pm Sunday, 11am - 7pm

www.scandiaoldetowneliquor.com

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

15

www.osceolasun.com

BEST REALTOR

2021

Jean Lundgren, Keller Williams

of the Valley

2021

of the Valley

BEST ANTIQUE SHOP The Looking Glass

The Sun Country Messenger

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-2886• 117 N Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

715-308-2221 • 201 3rd Avenue • Osceola, WI As lifetime residents of the scenic St. Croix River Valley area, Licensed in Wisconsin & Minnesota, The Lundgren’s specialize in Western Wisconsin & Eastern Minnesota Real Estate Properties. Established in 1994 The Lundgren’s have the market knowledge and experience to help you with all your real estate needs. So whether you are looking for Waterfront, Single Family Homes, Farms, Recreational Property, Vacant Land or Investments please give us a call. Our family works together to meet and exceed all your real estate goals.

Be sure to stop in and visit the store! We are filled with fun hand made items from local crafters, super cool vintage items, and totally awesome furniture--painted, distressed, and natural pieces. If you love things with history, up-cycled, chippy paint, primitive, farmhouse inspired, come on in. There is something here for everyone! We also offer live sales on Facebook! Come check it out, follow & like us!

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Shari Steele, Edina Realty

The Brunfelts, Keller Williams

Treasure Alley

Adoray’s Treasures From The Heart

715-553-3071 2163 US Hwy 8 Suite 200 St. Croix Falls, WI

651-433-3333 21100 Olinda Trail N Scandia, MN

715-483-9937 116 S Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-4074 120 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST REC OUTFITTER

2021

St. Croix Outdoors

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-9515 • 1298 198th Street • St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST BUTCHER

2021

Swank’s Meats

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3386 • 1980 US-8 • St. Croix Falls, WI

St. Croix Outdoors is a MN & WI FFL Dealer and Gunsmith. We are authorized dealers for several major firearm distributors and can special order most items for your convenience. Our Archery Sales & Repair Department can help you find the perfect high quality bow or crossbow, or keep your personal bow tuned up to specification. We have a 40 yard indoor archery range. Our range is available for individuals, groups, or leagues. Our Hunting and Fishing Departments sell licenses, rods, reels, tackle, live bait, hunting gear, and accessories. We specialize in hunting and fishing advice, and stories. Our hope is that we can make a lasting impact on the environment; our beloved natural resources that we so highly respect.

Swank’s Meats has been a family and locally owned operated business since 1971. We are a one-stop shop for do-it-yourselfers, and we enjoy educating customers on the different cuts of meat we offer and their quality. We are proud to support local farmers and businesses from the St. Croix River Valley and Indian Head area. Our professionals have over 100 years combined cutting experience to provide you with fabulous, fresh and fine-quality meats.

FINALISTS

FINALISTS

Riverwood Canoe & Kayak Rental

Bending Branches

Marketplace Foods

Dick’s Fresh Market

715-222-2288 254 S Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-755-3405 812 Prospect Ct, Osceola, WI

715-483-5178 2191 U.S. Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-2158 112 Chieftain Street Osceola, WI

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your business and your support of my real estate business! It is my honor to help you with all of your real estate needs!”

2021

BEST AUTO REPAIR Finalist

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

~Shari

715.553.3071

sharisteele@edinarealty.com www.ourdreamcabin.com

Lic. in WI & MN

See You at the Corner of Listed & Sold!

522 East N. Avenue • Dresser, WI Open Monday - Friday • 8 AM - 5 PM

Thank you for your votes and continued patronage!

16

BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

www.osceolasun.com

BEST TITLE COMPANY

2021

Polk County Abstract

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-5949 • 825 U.S. 8 #1 • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Oakey and Oakey Abstract & Title

Ancona Title & Escrow

715-294-2624 307 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

651-209-1144 13289 St Croix Ave, Lindstrom, MN

2021

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Scott Henningsguard, Noah Insurance

BEST GIFT SHOP

2021

Crabtree’s Garden Gate

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

651-433-2593 • 19713 Quinnell Avenue N. Marine on St. Croix, MN

Crabtree’s is celebrating 20 years of artful home decor, unique women’s accessories, and fun gadgets for the kitchen are located within our Garden Room, which is ever changing like the seasons. We enjoy providing samples of Minnesotan gourmet treats to add to your shopping experience. In season we offer the largest selection of outdoor garden art in the Twin Cities. We also have the largest selection of quality wild bird feeders in the area. Our bird seed mixes, developed by us over the last 15 years, are mixed and delivered weekly for freshness.

FINALISTS The Sleepy Thicket

Coming Home

651-245-1904 114 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-513-9023 206 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST FLOORING

715-294-2510 • 102 N Cascade St, Osceola 2021

FINALISTS Jason Mork, Stein Insurance

John Gauper, SF Insurance Group

651-257-1042 12800 Lake Blvd, Lindstrom, MN

715-294-5972 304 N Cascade St Osceola, WI

BEST VETERINARIAN

2021

Osceola Veterinary Service of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-3431 • 892 County Road S • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

Cascade Flooring

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-5959 • 2016 US-8 • St. Croix Falls, WI

Cascade Flooring is a family owned business with over 30 years’ experience in all types of flooring. We are a full-service flooring store. Our showroom consultants are very knowledgeable and will help you choose the perfect flooring to fit your lifestyle and budget. Offering free estimates personally completed by one of the owners of Cascade Flooring. We treat our customers as our Number 1 Priority!

FINALISTS

Valley View Veterinary Hospital

Scandia Veterinary Clinic

Floorworks, LLC

DK’s Woodworking

715-483-1551 821 US-8 St. Croix Falls, WI

651-433-3666 14762 Oakhill Road N Scandia, MN

715-483-7172 2071 Glacier Drive #3 St. Croix Falls, WI

715-483-7142 1978 US-8 St. Croix Falls, WI

Congratulations to

FINALIST - Best Manufacturer 2021

2021

JAKE RODKE

lley e Va of thThe Sun senger

Country Mes

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

WINNER Best Mechanic 108 Industrial Drive Osceola, WI 54020 • 715-294-3370

In-house manufacturing of component parts for our awardwinning recreational vehicles. 66 years of innovation and service from a dedicated team of employees who understand the riding experience and work to make it better.

For Career opportunities, visit us on the web at www.polaris.com

534 County Road V V, Somerset, WI 54025 | 715-247-2300

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

www.osceolasun.com

BEST SERVER

2021

Sonya Fry

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Dalles House Restaurant & Lounge St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Amy Hanson

Valerie VanderBent

Dalles House St. Croix Falls, WI

New Richmond, WI

BEST BIKE TRAIL

2021

2021

FINALIST

Gandy Dancer Trailhead

of the Valley

St. Croix Falls, WI

The Sun Country Messenger

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

FINALISTS

Stower Seven Lakes Trail

Woolly Mountain Bike Trails

Dresser, WI to Amery, WI

Lincoln Dr St. Croix Falls, WI

BEST CELEBRATION

2021

Polk County Fair

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

800 E. Louisiana Street St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Osceola Community Fair

Wheels and Wings

Oakey Park Osceola, WI

L.O. Simenstad Municipal Airport Osceola, WI

2021

BEST LOCAL FINE ARTIST

of the Valley

Jenna Wojan

The Sun Country Messenger

Hudson, WI

FINALISTS Peg Medcraft

Mary Pettis

Osceola, WI

Taylors Falls, MN

2021

BEST GYM

of the Valley

Snap Fitness

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-4554 • 2388 State Road 35, Osceola, WI

Best Eye Doctor: Dr. Tran WINNER Dr. Dolphin

Thanks for voting for us, we’ll do our best to earn your trust! stcroixfalleyes.com • 715-483-3259 St. Croix Falls • Balsam Lake Frederic • Grantsburg • Webster

FINALIST Best Flooring/ Carpet Store

2021

Thank You for voting for us!

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

CABINETRY • COUNTERTOPS • FLOORING • FAUCETS & SINKS • CARPET

340 E. McKenny Street, St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Wild River Fitness

Flex Gymnastics

715-294-2164 2630 65th Avenue Osceola, WI

715-417-3144 2386 93rd Avenue Osceola, WI

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST LOCAL PARK Interstate State Park St. Croix Falls, WI

top r e t n Cou ment ace Repl

FINALISTS Standing Cedars

Lions Park

Osceola, WI

St. Croix Falls, WI

1978 U.S. HWY 8, ST. CROIX FALLS, WI Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

715-483-7142 • www.dks-woodworking.com

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BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

2021

SEPTEMBER 29, 20210

BEST LIQUOR STORE

2021

BEST LOCAL BAND/MUSICIAN

Valley Spirits

of the Valley

Samantha Grimes

of the Valley

The Sun Country Messenger

The Sun Country Messenger

Osceola, WI

715-294-4240 • 209 Chieftain Street • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS Marketplace Foods

Scandia Olde Towne Liquor

715-483-5178 2191 US-8 St. Croix Falls, WI

651-433-5845 21190 Ozark Avenue N Scandia, MN

BEST LOCAL SPORTS TEAM

2021

Osceola Chieftains

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Samantha has been playing stringed instruments since she was old enough to put rubber bands between dresser knobs. Left-handed and upside down, she has been writing and performing music for the past two decades. She is joined live by bassist Jon Larson and drummer Nick Engelhart - both incredibly gifted singer/songwriters in their own right. Samantha recently signed with Return Records and is distributed through The Orchard (A Sony Music Company).

Her latest single “Trainwreck” is available on all streaming and digital platforms.

FINALISTS The Swongos

Gel

St. Croix Falls, WI

Osceola, WI

Osceola, WI 2021

FINALISTS Osceola Braves

Flex Gymnastics

Oakey Park Osceola, WI

715-417-3144 2386 93rd Avenue Osceola, WI

BEST OUTDOOR EVENT

2021

Wheels and Wings

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

L.O. Simenstad Municipal Airport • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS

BEST GREENHOUSE/NURSERY Abrahamson Nurseries

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3040 • 1257 WI-35 • St. Croix Falls, WI

Abrahamson Nurseries is a full service landscape and design company, garden center, and a greenhouse grower. We offer a wide selection of landscape plants, hardscape materials, tools, and garden decor. Whether you are looking for trees, shrubs, perennials, or annuals; we offer many choices. Our experienced designers and knowledgeable staff can work with you to select the varieties that will work best in your yard.

From renovating an entire landscape to planting a single tree - we look forward to working with you.

FINALISTS

Osceola Community Fair

Falls Music Festival

The Shed

Lake Kountry Inc.

Oakey Park Osceola, WI

St. Croix Falls, WI

715-294-497-2128 708 Seminole Avenue Osceola, WI

715-248-3018 347 180th Street Osceola, WI

WINNER • Best Bar

2021

• Best Bloody Mary • Best Hamburger

of the Valley The Sun Country Me ssenger

• Best Outdoor Patio

2021 Valley of thTeheMSesunsenger y

Countr

WINNER Best Flooring and Carpet Store

• Best Place to Watch Sports

FINALIST • Cheese Curds

Thank you to all who voted!

Osceola

Lanes

• Burgers & Fries • Broasted Chicken • Chicken Wings

Our Family Serving Yours for the last 16 years!

Cascade Flooring 2016 US Hwy 8 • St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 715-483-5959 Phone • 715-483-5958 Fax KWWSV ZZZ FDVFDGHÁRRULQJFR FRP

• Tacos - Tuesday & Thursday • Breakfast Sat & Sun 8 - Noon • Drink Specials

Patio Open Evenings and Weekends

715-294-2275 • 104 N. Cascade St.

BEST OF THE VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

THE SUN

www.osceolasun.com

2021

BEST FLORIST

2021

of the Valley

Wildwood Flowers and All Things

of the Valley

The Sun Country Messenger

715-755-2040 • 407 S Cascade Street • Osceola, WI

FINALIST My Own Creations Flower Shop

Distracted by Flowers

715-257-4143 128 S Washington Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-554-0651 Osceola, WI

2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

BEST CHIROPRACTOR Gregory R. Kumlien, DC

The Sun Country Messenger

715-294-4224 • 204 2nd Avenue • Osceola, WI

FINALISTS Bont Chiropractic

Truhlsen Chiropractic

715-483-3913 114 N. Adams Street St. Croix Falls, WI

715-755-2583 115 WI-35 Dresser, WI

BEST BANK

WINNER

Royal Credit Union

Best Local Website

2021

800-341-9911 • 500 Chieftain Street, Osceola, WI and 2175 US-8, St. Croix Falls, WI of the Valley

FINALISTS

The Sun Country Messenger

MidWestOne Bank

Hiawatha National Bank

715-294-2183 304 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

715-294-4000 409 N Cascade Street Osceola, WI

BEST SCENIC SPOT

2021

Interstate State Park

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

715-483-3747 • WI-35 • St. Croix Falls, WI

FINALISTS Wilke Glen/Cascade Falls

Big Rock Creek

Osceola, WI

St. Croix Falls, WI

2021

y of the Vnalle The Su ssenger Country Me

Thank you for making us the #1 Website in The Valley!

WINNER BEST RECREATION OUTFITTER

www.osceolasun.com

Full-line Gunsmithing Service Available

FIREARMS Benelli • Browning • Franchi Stoeger • Winchester

ARCHERY Mathews • Mathews Mission

CROSSBOWS Centerpoint • Mission Ten Point • Wicked Ridge Horton • Ravin

FULL SELECTION OF AMMO 9mm • 380 • 40 S&W • 45 ACP 38 S&W • 357 Mag • 5.56 Get your hunting ammo before it’s gone and other hard to find ammo.

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BEST OF THE VALLEY

THE SUN

SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

SENIOR LIVING AT ITS BEST With 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for rent for seniors, the Royal Oaks is located in western Wisconsin in a beautiful residential area within walking distance from churches, banks, grocery store, library, the park, and more!

2021

Call today to schedule your personal tour.

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

WINNER

Best Retirement/Independent Living Facility

FINALIST Best Assisted Living/ Senior Care Facilty

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

Independent and Assisted Living 304 8th Ave East • Osceola, WI

715-294-1600

Come on over and get to know us, you’ll be glad you did.

WINNER 2021

of the Valley The Sun Country Messenger

Best Heating/Air Conditioning Company

Thank you for voting for us!

The Rixmann family 398 State Road 35 Osceola, WI • 715-294-BUZZ