The Sun 01.08.25

Serving Polk County’s St. Croix Valley since 1897

‘Dare to Repair’ encourages residents to skip the landfill

Volunteers encouraged to keep Osceola event going

BY MATT ANDERSON

EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

Every year, tons of clothing, electronics and other household items are thrown away and sent to landfills throughout the country. To combat the issue, the Marine Mills Folk School hosts their Dare to Repair event in Marine on St. Croix and Osceola. But help is needed to keep the Osceola event going. While the event designed to help residents learn to fix their products rather than throw them away takes place every month at the folk school, they are also reaching out to recruit new volunteers to help the event in Osceola continue.

“We’ve all learned in our throwaway economy that if you throw something away, it turns out it’s going somewhere,” said Marine Mills Folk School Board Chair Robin Brooksbank.

“It’s filling up some landfill. So, people are very much paying more attention. We’ve had a lot of success with a variety of classes where we talk about upcycling or recycling and people are coming and repairing clothing or whatever else they bring… it’s really a great way to show people

that there is life still left in whatever these items are.”

Dare to Repair has been taking place in Marine on St. Croix for a handful of years now, but one former Osceola resident, Terry Metz, decided it would be helpful to bring it across the river to the Village of Osce -

ola after attending one of the events at the Marine Mills Folk School. Since then, she has been trying to continue the class on a monthly basis after seeing how helpful it can be to reduce waste and help Osceola residents keep

What you should know: Ice fishing on the St. Croix

Hunting the mighty lake sturgeon

BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Wisconsinites and Minnesotans are used to seeing ice shanty “villages” this time of year. Those who glance out onto the frozen St. Croix River may not realize what they’re looking at may be something like a true community centered on one species: the lake sturgeon.

The scenic St. Croix River is one of a handful of places in the Upper Midwest where lake sturgeon thrive. Naturally, they attract anglers looking for a chance at battling the prehistoric beast. One such angler is Jake Odonnell, of South St. Paul. While children everywhere scanned the skies for a flying sleigh on Christmas Eve, his eyes were fixed on a sonar screen near Bayport, the de facto capital of sturgeon ice angling in this area. He immediately welcomed

a wandering writer into his pop-up shelter and began to explain what was happening. Fortunately for the uninitiated, it’s uncomplicated. “A lot of guys will go in the deeper areas, you know, 35 or 40 feet,” explained Odonnell. “I stay in the shallows from 13 to about 25. You can go anywhere, set up with a bait on the bottom and hope for the best. You just wait for them to come by and watch that bobber.” That night, he used a sucker minnow on a plain J hook. Nightcrawlers and other kinds of minnows are also frequently employed. Odonnell had yet to catch the first sturgeon for the season at that point but knows that is par for the course. “You can have nights when you have a bunch of action, and you’re catching four or five a night. Or you can go a couple weeks on end and not catch anything. It’s a big

First human bird flu in Barron County raises concerns

Polk County Public Health

officials call for taking precautions

BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD

RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET

Two weeks ago, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced it received test results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from specimens collected from the presumptive

positive human case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A(H5).

Also known as bird flu, the case was reported in Barron County.

Tonya Eichelt, Polk County Community Services Division Director, said that while the test results are concerning, it’s certainly not time to panic.

“Currently, there is no imminent threat to Wisconsin since there is little evidence of sustained human-to-human spread of avian influenza

in other parts of the world,” Eichelt said.

But she was clear on how best to avoid future spread.

“People who have job-related contact with infected or potentially infected birds or other animals should be aware of the risk of exposure to avian influenza viruses and should take proper precautions. People should wear appropriate and recommended personal protective equipment when exposed to an infected or potentially infected animal(s).

CDC has recommendations for worker protection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).”

According to a recent statement from the state Department of Health Services, “DHS, in coordination with Barron County Health and Human Services, is monitoring farm workers who may have been exposed to the virus and has provided them with information to protect their health. The risk to the general public in Wisconsin remains

low. People who work with infected animals, or have recreational exposure to them, are at higher risk.”

The department also wrote:

“The H5N1 HPAI virus has continued to circulate in both wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021. H5N1 HPAI viruses are highly contagious and often fatal to domestic poultry. Caused by influenza type A viruses, the disease can cause

CONTRIBUTED

Volunteers from the Marine Mills Folk School have helped Marine on St. Croix and Osceola residents fix their household products rather than tossing them to fill up landfills.

SEE REPAIR, PAGE 15

SEE FISHING, PAGE 2

COUNTY: Bird flu in Barron County raises concerns for Polk County

FROM PAGE 1 illnesses ranging from very mild to severe depending on the strain and species affected. The disease can spread from infected birds to people by contact with infected birds, commingling with wild birds or their droppings, equipment, or clothing worn by anyone working with the animals.

“The virus does not spread easily from animals to people. People who have gotten sick with bird flu have been in direct contact with infected animals.”

There are also studies that indicate avian influenza is also being passed through dairy herds in California.

In a recent online story by Megan Molteni in STAT, she wrote: “Since the first identification of three infected herds there in late August, California authorities have found the virus in 650 of the state’s estimated 1,100 dairies - about half of them in the last month alone.”

She continued: “In Colorado, for instance, H5N1 went through 74% of the state’s herds before it began to peter out. Payne believes that even with all the measures California farmers are taking, the virus won’t

slow down until it has infected 80% to 90% of the state’s herds.”

Though the virus hasn’t been found in Wisconsin dairy herds, Eichelt said there is still much work to do to continue to educate residents on how best to stop the spread.

“The CDC and Wisconsin Department of Health Services provide frequent updates of state, national, and international disease trends and emerging health threats with local health departments. Local and state health departments use this data to develop plans and share information with the public,” she said.

Eichelt went on to say that public health will be there for residents with questions and concerns: “Local public health departments work closely with the Wisconsin DHS and CDC to provide lab testing, disease surveillance, and current human health guidance. Local and state health departments also communicate frequently with the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection for awareness of spread of HPAI in animals within Wisconsin.”

She also emphasized that these types of viruses do not pose a risk to

those consuming animal products.

“Pasteurizing milk and properly cooking raw poultry, raw meat, and eggs thoroughly kills all HPAI viruses. It is never safe to drink raw milk.”

However, she also said that viruses that spread from animals to people “have the potential to mutate or combine with human influenza viruses to become more infectious variants. This is why public health measures to prevent the spread of HPAI to people are so important.”

Steps to take to ensure these viruses don’t pass from animal to humans are as follows:

Everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine every year to protect themselves against seasonal flu.

As a general precaution, people should avoid close contact with sick animals. People who have had contact with infected or sick animals should monitor for flu-like symptoms, seek medical care if they feel sick, and tell their health care provider that they had contact with infected animals.

Anyone involved in poultry or livestock production, even those with small operations, should evaluate their bi-

osecurity measures to assure the health of their animals and their workers. Whenever possible, people should avoid direct contact with wild birds and other wildlife and observe them only from a distance. People should also avoid touching any wild animals showing signs of HPAI and not touch dead birds or wildlife with their bare hands. If touching dead animals is necessary, wear gloves or use a plastic bag to put it in the garbage. People should wash their hands with soap and water and throw away any gloves after disposing of dead birds or wildlife. Contact

the DNR to report any sick or dead wildlife. Those who may be exposed to the potential of contracting the virus should contact their local public health department or health care provider if any of the following symptoms are experienced: Fever (100°F or 37.8°C) or feeling feverish/chills. (Fever might not always be present)

Cough

Sore throat

Difficulty breathing/ shortness of breath

Eye tearing/discharge, redness, or irritation (conjunctivitis)

Headaches

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Diarrhea

To prevent the spread of HPAI to people and domestic animals, Wisconsinites and their pets should avoid touching sick or injured wild animals

In all, there have been 66 human cases of H5N1 bird flu have been confirmed in the U.S. For more information, visit https://tinyurl. com/2rkf4bvj.

Additional resources

DHS: https://tinyurl. com/46jmzy54

DATCP: https://tinyurl.com/455huvb4

CDC: https://tinyurl. com/3k6zcck2

CDC: https://tinyurl. com/4v6msh7a

FISHING: DNR sturgeon studies helped by anglers

gamble,” he said.

It is common for sturgeon to pass by, with no indication of interest in the bait. “That might be a sturgeon here,” he said, pointing to his sonar. While sturgeon fishing is a known waiting game, long times between bites does not mean they are scarce.

The number of lake sturgeon in this stretch of the St. Croix River has been estimated to be well into the thousands. They are highly migratory—especially with regard to spawning season—just one reason an exact figure is elusive, if not impossible. Nonetheless, the population is considered healthy and has been studied by both Minnesota DNR and Wisconsin DNR for decades.

A few members of the Minnesota sturgeon angling community participated in ongoing research in 2023 and early 2024, by helping Wisconsin DNR install new tags on over 500 fish. For their part, the rank-and-file sturgeon anglers routinely catch tagged fish (some date to the 1980s) and report tag numbers and fish measurements.

All that data helps fisheries managers understand things like population size, growth, migration habits, and more. Some individual fish have been caught many times over the years, showing that sturgeon are hardy fish and that they thrive for years after being released.

Ice fishing for sturgeon on the St. Croix is solely a catch-and-release activity, as harvest is restricted to a few weeks in September. The season

will close on March 1.

Shortly before that, the sturgeon fishing community will likely hold “Sturgeon Camp,” an annual event full of food, camaraderie, and a friendly fishing tournament. The tournament portion is conducted virtually, through the FishDonkey phone app, which allows for best handling of the sturgeon. A 54-inch fish was tops in 2023. Anglers were restricted to revelry on the shore in 2024, since ice conditions did not permit the usual all-weekend gathering on the ice.

Staying out on the ice for days at a time is not uncommon for sturgeon chasers, including Odonnell. He caught his personal best a few years ago in the middle of the night. It measured 77

and 1/4 inches, just shy of the Minnesota catch and release record (78 inches).

“That was at, I want to say, 1 a.m. It took a little over an hour to get it in. Pretty much in this spot right here,” he said. Anyone interested in besting Odonnell’s record, or catching any sturgeon at all, can do so with their 2024 fishing license until February 28 in Minnesota, and March 31 in Wisconsin. Basic information about sturgeon, their biology, safe handling, and more can be found at: https:// www.dnr.state.mn.us/ gofishing/how-catchlake-sturgeon.html Roy Heilman is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at news@ presspubs.com or 651407-1200.

CONTRIBUTED

Sturgeon angler Jake Odonnell hoists a lake sturgeon caught this season on the St. Croix River.

OUT ABOUT&

www.osceolasun.com

ONGOING

The Gathering

Meets the first and third Friday at 1 p.m. in the Osceola Senior Center. Discuss topics, exchange ideas, share life experiences. For more info: jimihnye@gmail.com

Tai Chi, Qi Gong

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9-10 a.m., in the Osceola Senior Center. Available on Zoom, email rmussell@att.net. 312524-3934.

River Valley Stitchers

River Valley Stitchers meet the second Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the second Saturday, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the Osceola Senior Center. Participants bring their own projects to work on. For more info contact mkmcelrath@hotmail. com.

American Legion meeting

American Legion Post 0221 meets every third Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Ken’s Keyboard. For more info: Matt Goldman 952-465-5922.

LEGO Club

LEGO Club at the Wilberg Memorial Public Library of Osceola meets the first and third Thursday of the month at 4 p.m. to build with LEGOs.

Used book sale

The Friends of the Osceola Library used book sale is the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the lower level of the Wilberg Memorial Public Library. Friends of the Library

The Friends of the Osceola Library meets on the fourth Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in the lower level of the Wilberg Memorial Library (Third St. entrance). New members welcome.

Widow Connect

The St. Croix Valley Widow Connect, a subgroup of Widow Might, meets the third Sunday of each month at Trinity Lutheran Church, 300 Seminole Ave, Osceola.

The meeting is from 1-4 pm. https://www.widowmight.org/

MONDAYS

Indianhead Barbershop

The Indianhead Barbershop Chorus meets Mondays at 7 p.m. at the Justice Center in Balsam Lake. 715-475-7666. Alcoholics Anonymous Mondays, 7 p.m., at Osceola United Methodist Church.

TUESDAYS

Seniors on the Go

Seniors on the Go meet Tuesdays from 12:30 to 4 p.m. for 3-13 cards at the Osceola Senior Center.

Exercise classes

Free exercise classes for seniors at Osceola Community Church, 2492 Education Ave., 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. For more information: 612751-9151.

Learn the Bible

Every Tuesday Osceola Elementary School and Intermediate School students have the opportunity to learn the Bible during specials. An Osceola Community Church van will pick them up and return them on time. Contact the church for van schedule, 715-2944332.

WEDNESDAYS

TOPS meeting

Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, Osceola. For more information: Nancy, 715-553-3998.

AA meetings

AA meets at the St. Croix Falls Alanon Club, 221 S. Adams St., St. Croix Falls, at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. NA meets at 6 p.m.

THURSDAYS

Adult grief group

St. Croix Chaplaincy offers a free, online grief support group on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Find the link to the Zoom meetings at Facebook. com/stcroixchaplaincy. For more information: 651-239-8441 or email StCroixChaplaincy@gmail. com.

Alanon meeting

An Alanon meeting is held at 6 p.m. at the St. Croix Falls Alanon Club, 221 S. Adams St., St. Croix Falls.

Exercise classes

Free exercise classes for seniors at Osceola Community Church, 2492 Education Ave., 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. For more information: 612751-9151.

500 Cards

Seniors meet Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. for 500 cards at the Osceola Senior Center.

AA meeting

AA meets at Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser every Thursday at 7 p.m.

FRIDAYS AA meeting

AA meets at the St. Croix Falls Alanon Club, 221 S. Adams St., St. Croix Falls, at 7 p.m. Soma Yoga

Soma Yoga meets at 11 a.m. to noon in the Osceola Senior Center. Gentle mindful practice focusing on breathwork, alignment, & finding individual pose variations. Seated in a chair and standing. Bring a mat and water bottle. For more information, 715-417-2765.

SATURDAYS

AA meeting

AA meets at the St. Croix Falls Alanon Club, 221 S. Adams St., St. Croix Falls, at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

SUNDAYS

AA meeting

AA meets at the St. Croix Falls Alanon Club, 221 S. Adams St., St.

Croix Falls, at 9 a.m. and 8 p.m.

JANUARY 8

Osceola Senior Citizens Osceola Senior Citizens Club will meet at noon at the Senior Center for a potluck and meeting.  Program:  “Gretel & Andy, God’s Gift,” with Marina Peacock. Everyone 55 years of age or older is welcome to attend. For a ride or more info call (651) 319-7985.

JANUARY 9

Bloodmobile

The American Red Cross will be at Bethany Lutheran Church, Star Prairie, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. To donate blood simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767.

ST. CROIX FALLS SENIOR CENTER

BY WANDA BROWN

Cards and games each week: Small fee. Rummikub: Tuesdays at 4 p.m. Mahjong: Wednesdays at noon. Bridge: Fridays at 10 a.m.

500: Saturdays at 12:30 p.m.

Zumba: Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8:30 a.m. Core and More: Tuesday and Thursday at 8:30 a.m. Butts and Gutts: Tuesday and Thursday at 4:30 p.m. Challenge yourself with a great strength and toning workout Bring a mat to class for floor exercise. Small fee for exercise classes.

Sunday morning Church: Living Waters Church All Welcome. 10 a.m. Information or reservation of the Center, call Brad Moore 906-396-2481.

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Informal Administration) Case No. 24 PR 119 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Susan D. Griffin Wendel

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:

1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth November 11,1960, and date of death October 11, 2024, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 1368 Northpoint Road, St. Croix Falls, WI 54024.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

STATE OF WISCONSIN

CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

Notice to Creditors for Summary Assignment (Formal Administration) Case No. 24 PR 120 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THAD JOHNSON

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:

1. A Petition for Summary Assignment was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth, 12/08/1973, and date of death, 10/21/2024, with a mailing address of 603 170th Street, Osceola, WI 54020, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin.

3. The right of a creditor to bring an action terminates three

JANUARY 15

Bloodmobile

The American Red Cross will be at St. Croix Health, St. Croix Falls, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. To donate blood simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800RED CROSS (1-800-7332767.

THE OPEN CUPBOARD

JANUARY 18

Rassier benefit A benefit is planned at UW-Wanderoos at 2 p.m. for Nikki Rassier. She was in a car accident on Dec. 21 and will be unable to work for the foreseeable future. Meat raffle, basket raffles, 50/50. To donate to the basket raffle call Jen, 651-303-3664.

Items needed at Osceola’s food pantry: Butter and eggs

Items can be dropped off during business hours Monday and Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. After hours donations can be left in the black bin in front of the building at 406 2nd Ave.

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 24CV320 IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Greyson Emmett Piland By (Petitioner) Alexandria Rose Hendrickson By (Co-Petitioner) Richard Glenn Piland

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above: From: Greyson Emmett Piland To: Greyson Emmett Hendrickson

Birth certificate: Greyson Emmett Piland IT IS ORDERED:

This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin: Daniel

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is April 17, 2025.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, 1005 W. Main Street, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500. By the court: Cheryl Winberg Probate Registrar January 2, 2025 Ronald L. Siler Williamson & Siler, S.C. 201 S. Knowlels Avenue New Richmond, WI 54017 715-246-6806 Bar #1022083

23-25Sc WNAXLP

months after the date of publication of this order. Creditors may bring an action by

A. filing a claim in the Polk County Circuit Court before the property is assigned.

B. bringing a suit against the assignee(s) after the property is assigned.

4. The property may be assigned to the creditors and interested persons after 30 days have elapsed following the publication of this notice.

Barry C. Lundeen 110 Second St Hudson, WI 54016 barry.lundeen@mpl-s.com 715-386-3200

Bar Number 1011860

23Sc WNAXLP

NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 24CV321 IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Freya Esmee Piland By (Petitioner)

Alexandria Rose Hendrickson By (Co-Petitioner) Richard Glenn Piland

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above: From: Frey Esmee Piland

To: Freya Esmee Hendrickson

Birth certificate: Freya Esmee Piland

IT IS ORDERED:

This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin: Daniel

STATE OF WISCONSIN

CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 24CV322 IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Zachery Frost Piland By (Petitioner)

Alexandria Rose Hendrickson By (Co-Petitioner) Richard Glenn Piland

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above:

From: Zachery Frost Piland

To: Zachery Frost Hendrickson

Birth certificate: Zachery Frost Piland

IT IS ORDERED:

This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin: Daniel

J. Tolan, 1005 W. Main St., Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI, on Jan. 23, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715-4859299 prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in The Sun, a newspaper published in Polk County, State of Wisconsin. BY THE COURT: Daniel J. Tolan Circuit Court Judge Dec. 10, 2024 21-23Sp WNAXLP

J. Tolan, 1005 W. Main St., Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI, on Jan. 23, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715-4859299 prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in The Sun, a newspaper published in Polk County, State of Wisconsin. BY THE COURT:

Daniel J. Tolan Circuit Court Judge Dec. 10, 2024 21-23Sp WNAXLP

J. Tolan, 1005 W. Main St., Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI, on Jan. 23, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715-4859299 prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in The Sun, a newspaper published in

OPINION

www.osceolasun.com

Time to work 2

025 is here; people elected to state and federal offices will be getting their offices and staff in order and preparing to govern.

The less glamorous task of doing the job voters chose you to do now begins.

I have witnessed this part of the job become more of an afterthought as many elected officials continue to act like they are on the campaign trail and less like the servants of the people.

I understand why they act this way: it’s easier. It takes minimal talent to bash the people who don’t share your point of view. As a bonus, the fringe of your political party, whether on the left or the right, enjoys a good trashing of the other.

Publisher Tom Stangl

The past U.S. Congress passed a measure declaring the eagle the national bird. When I heard this “momentous” news, I chuckled to myself. “At least they are tackling the great issues of the day,” I thought.

Governing is just as, if not more important than campaigning. But governing requires reaching a consensus and making compromises to find common ground. You know this delicate dance if you have been a child or a parent. You probably do this waltz daily.

You want to get something done, your parent or child wants to do something else. Both of you really want the other to do what you have asked them to without asking too many questions. In both your eyes, the issue is straightforward. You both realize that you could press the issue, force a confrontation, and possibly get your way. You both know there is a cost to this type of victory. At this point, the dance to find common ground begins. If you are lucky, the fuels of dealmaking kick in: compromise and concession. While these two things make reaching a deal easier, they can be bitter pills to swallow. It helps when both sides give something to reach common ground.

We all know there are challenges we face in our state, our nation, and the world. Many different ideas exist to solve these problems. Depending on your point of view, some of these are wonderful, and others are dangerous. Fortunately, the people who designed our government provided methods to vet these ideas. The system of checks and balances worked out by our founders is a safeguard, ensuring no single person or concept can rule by edict or whim.

I read last week that viewership on cable news networks has plummeted since the presidential election. This is good news for all of us. When people spend their time in places that only reinforce their beliefs, very little good can come from this time. Commentator David Brooks said it was time for a break.

“I have to say, I’m thrilled by the decline in viewership for political news,” Brooks said. “We’re over-politicized in this country. People go to politics for a sense of belonging, for a sense of righteousness. You should go to your friends for those things. You’re asking more of politics than politics can bear.”

I hope our elected officials take their jobs seriously and we give them the space they need to work things out. There is a time and place to offer comments and input.

It’s time to get to work, folks. There’s plenty of time to brag or complain later.

As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress. com, telephone at 715-268-8101, or write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.

Thanks for reading. I’ll keep in touch. Feel free to do the same.

THE SUN

HEditor

ow do we come up with story ideas for The Sun? Oftentimes, there are local government meetings, press releases and other opportunities that present themselves, offering us a way to bring you the content you’re looking for when you take the time to read the paper. However, I personally think some of the best story ideas come from word of mouth in the community.

Matt Anderson

I can’t tell you how many great stories have come from an email or a phone call from someone in the community. There are too many to count. There have been story ideas that never occurred to me, or I simply hadn’t heard about until someone else reached out to let me know about it.

Unfortunately, as a small-town newspaper, our resources are limited, and we are stretched thin. As much as I wish I could be ev-

Letters to the Editor are published with priority given to letters that are concise (400 words or less) and exclusive to our newspaper, from readers in our general distribution area. All letters are subject to editing for grammar and clarity and must contain the undersigned’s full name and their address and daytime telephone number for verification. (Addresses and phone numbers will not be printed.)

erywhere, all at once, all the time, I’m only human. I have a wife and a toddler going on three years old at home. It’s just not realistic or feasible for me to be in the community all the time and know everything that’s going on. That’s where you come in. I am humbly asking you, dear reader, to reach out with any story ideas you might have within your community.

Now, I’m not asking you to do my job. I’m only asking you to be our eyes and ears in the community; a confidential informant of sorts. Again, I have written dozens of stories based on intel provided by members of the community, like you. With your help, we can bring more interesting stories to the paper you’re reading. Whenever you hear about something going on in your community, whether it be a new business that might be opening up, a neighbor with an interesting story to tell, or anything else you find interesting, there’s a good chance we and your neighbors will find it interesting too. While I can’t guarantee every story idea

LETTER GUIDELINES

Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to The Sun’s coverage area. One letter per author may be submitted every 30 days.

Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

Staff reserves the right to refrain from printing a letter. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

you bring to us will be published, I think you would be surprised at the things that are of interest to us and to our readers.

There is no harm in reaching out to us with your story ideas; on the contrary, I think it could only be of benefit to all involved in publishing and reading your local paper. Even if you think it might be a little outside the realm of newsworthy, I implore you to reach out when you hear rumblings of anything that piques your interest.

At worst, you take a few minutes to type up an email or spend a few minutes on the phone with us and it doesn’t quite merit a story in the paper. At best, you send that email or call us, and it does merit a story. This helps us bring a unique story to our readership that may have otherwise been passed up, not because we didn’t care, but because we didn’t know about it. You can change that outcome very easily.

While my columns are typically a little long winded, this one is

Letters may be emailed to: editor@osceolasun.com no later than noon Friday the week preceding publication.

Election endorsements

The Sun accepts election letters endorsing or advocating for or against a ballot measure, party or candidate as paid advertising announcements. The fee is $25 minimum for up to 250 words

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2007 Award Winning

755-3316, or fax at (715) 7553314. To subscribe: office@osceolasun.com The Sun is mailed to the homes of subscribers for delivery every Wednesday. One year subscription in Polk County is available for $52, two years is $98.

YEARS AGO

Now that the excitement of the holidays has passed, we are now facing the long stretch of winter that can seem endless. The holiday decorations are packed away, and the days feel quieter, darker, and colder. If you’re finding it tough to shake off the winter blues, there’s a remedy that’s always available – the unconditional love of a cat or dog.

Adopting, fostering, or volunteering with animals can be an incredible way to lift your spirits during these chilly months. The companionship of a pet brings joy, comfort, and even a little extra motivation to get out of bed when the cold sets in. Whether it’s a dog eagerly wagging its tail or a cat curling up beside you, their affection is a perfect cure for the winter doldrums.

At Arnell Memorial Humane Society, we’re always in need of caring individuals to support our animals, including short-term fosters. Those are people willing to open their hearts and homes for a day trip, weekend, or even just an overnight sleepover. These small commitments help relieve stress on our animals and staff while offering a break for those animals in our care who may benefit from a change of pace.

The car wash dress

MFostering, even temporarily, provides socialization and a home environment for our animals, helping them thrive until they find their forever homes. It’s

y sister took me to task.

“You know I was not being mean about your dress, don’t you?”

She meant the dress that she had said made me look like a car wash—the part of the car wash where the flappy things slap the car dry. My dress looked a lot like that, especially if I spun around. I thought this was hilarious and mentioned it in a column.

“Of course I knew you weren’t being mean!” I told her.

It was not my intention to be so amusing, wearing the car wash dress. From a certain angle, it looks pretty stylish. It was some designer’s idea of a good look, and because I wear a smaller size, I can usually fit into these ill-conceived but affordable cast-offs I find on the internet. Not all of them work out. But I am delighted when I can cause some unexpected merriment simply by showing up in an $11 used dress.

My sister ought to know this. She should know that, at 62, I am

also an opportunity to get to know a pet before making a big commitment. Maybe you’ve been thinking about adopting, but you’re not quite sure what it would be like to have a furry friend in your daily life. A shortterm foster arrangement lets you test the waters – and who knows, you might just find a new companion to share the rest of the winter with!

We’re also looking for a volunteer who can assist in upping our social media presence. The right person will have a passion for animals and photography, and a desire to help our animals get the attention they deserve. If you have skills in this area and want to support our mission in a creative way, we’d love to hear from you!

This winter, we have two special girls that have been patiently waiting for a forever home: Autumn and Breeze. These 9-month-old long-

not angling for some best-dressed list. I am all about having fun with clothes, trying weird and different things, and a lot of those things absolutely are not going to work out. That is fine with me. I still have the car wash dress. Unlike an actual car wash, it is black, so I could wear it to a funeral sometime when I felt a little levity might be welcomed at the end of the service.

My family has a fine tradition of teasing. I know some people find this hard to believe, and I know some people tease cruelly. That is not what I mean at all. The teasing in my family has always been delivered with a heavy dose of love. Since I was a small child, I have known that the person who got teased was loved and the more people teased, the more love there was.

My dad and his sister were terrible to each other. My father always gave my aunt the meanest birthday cards, until one year she said, “Just once, I’d like a nice birthday card!”

The next year, my father went on a mission to find the most maudlin, absurdly sentimental, “To My Beloved Sister” birthday cards he could find. We found three, doused them in perfume, and presented them to her. (My dad also made her a rather nice

haired calico sisters are a perfect mix of playful mischief and loving lap cats. One minute they’re zooming around with the energy of kittens, and the next, they’re curled up in your lap purring contently. If you’re looking for two perfect companions, come meet them – they might just be the ones you’ve been waiting for!

If you’d like to support our shelter in a fun way, come join us this Friday, January 10 at 6:30pm. We will be at Ward’s Bar and Grill on State Street in Dresser for a meat raffle hosted by the Dresser Lion’s Club.

We’re open weekdays from noon – 5 p.m., and Saturdays from noon – 4 p.m. We’re located at 185 Griffin St E in Amery, and you can reach us at (715) 268-7387. We hope to see you soon, whether you’re looking to adopt, volunteer, or simply spread a little warmth to the animals in our care!

set of candleholders in his woodshop that year, as I recall.)

They both laughed so hard they had to wipe away tears. She never asked for another nice card. So when my sister tells me I look like a car wash, it makes my day. I feel seen. I feel loved.

Being able to tell someone they look like a car wash means you know them well. She knows I have an oversized interest in buying dresses—too many dresses—for cheap on the internet. She knows I am not terribly self-conscious. (OK, I’m a bit of a ham.) Most of all, she knows that I know she loves me. She has supported me through every crazy and life-disturbing decision and event— through career changes, through a divorce, through moves across the country. There has never been a moment of my life when I have doubted that my sister would be there for me.

And so she gets to tease me.

I am definitely keeping the car wash dress. And it’s not the last crazy dress I will buy. I figure it’s my duty to give my sister something new to laugh about.

Till next time,

Carrie

Photos and updates can be found on Facebook at CarrieClassonAuthor.

20 years ago Jan. 12, 2005

• Kaley Marie Paehlke of Lindstrom was Osceola Medical Center’s New Year’s baby.

• Famed grape researcher, Elmer Swenson, died Dec. 24. He made the cultivation of hardy, tasty grapes his lifelong goal.

• Girl Scout Troop 558 supported American troops by collecting and sending supplies to the Combat Stress Unit in Baghdad. Girls participating were Dani Zais, Sara Link, Hannah Schreck, Nicole Bentler, Alissa Rutledge, Kayla Zais, Danielle Bliese, Casey Swanson, McKayla Hansen, Rebecca Pfannes, Leah Lieffring and Jenny Pfannes.

• Dr. Micki Flynn assumed patient care for Dr. Harry Beck while he was in Kuwait with the U.S. Navy.

• The River Valley Women’s Club donated $1,106 to the St. Croix ArtBarn. The money was raised at a garage sale held at the bran.

• Osceola’s eighth grade basketball team won the Eau Claire Volunteers Classic basketball tournament. Team members included Kristin Jasperson, Amber Hogen, Heather Byl, Larissa Getschel, Lindsay Danielson, Katie Rydeen, Kelli Peterson and Brea Tinney.

30 years ago Jan. 11, 1995

• The Bank of Osceola expanded with a new building in St. Croix Falls in front of the new Walmart development.

• Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser gathered 80 pounds of school supplies for the LeFlor County School in Greenwood, MS.

• Monty’s Place Family Restaurant opened on Third Avenue in Osceola.

• Stop-A-Sec gas station and convenience store opened in Osceola.

• Miss Wisconsin American Teen Theresa Raleigh of Osceola was among 80 town

queens who visited St. Paul during the Winter Carnival.

• The Osceola Wrestling Club won its first dual meet of the season as they downed Durand, 38-36.

• The Osceola girls basketball team split two games during the week. They beat St. Croix Central, 67-43, and lot to Baldwin-Woodville, 4-38. Steph Bullard was high scorer for the team in both games with 15 points and 16 points respectively.

• Justin Wayne Mooney was the first baby born in the New Year at Osceola Medical Center.

40 years ago Jan. 15, 1985

• Nathan Kammerud was the first baby born at Ladd Memorial Hospital in 1985 on Jan. 6. His parents are Kathleen Marcano and Bradley Kammerud.

• Students named to the University of Wisconsin – River Falls Dean’s List were Heather Kroona, Ruth Langer, Jennifer Montgomery, Daniel Thiel, Kenneth Ulisnik and David Worrell.

• The director of the Lift Ski Club was at Trollhaugen Ski Area to instruct beginners in the American method using a new development called OP, a system developed in Austria by Kneissl Skis. The instruction was taped by WCCO and was scheduled to be on air Jan. 18.

• Several volunteers answered pones at the Bank of Osceola for the National United Cerebral Palsy telethon. They raised $532.

• Osceola business representatives Steve Stocker and Dale Morrill presented flowers to Valerie Ellefson during the grand opening of the Barron County Federal Bank in Osceola.

• Osceola wrestlers placed third at their invitational. Randy Nykanen and Ron Swanson won their weight divisions.

GOVERNMENT NUMBERS WHO TO CALL...

President Joe Biden

1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW • Washington, D.C. 20500 Comments: (202) 456- or http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/ Switchboard: (202) 456-1414

Congressman Tom Tiffany 7th Congressional District 1714 Longworth HOB, Washington, DC 20515 • (202) 225-3365

U.S. Senator Ronald H. Johnson 328 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20515 • (202) 224-5323 www.ronjohnson.senate.gov

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin

7 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510 • (202) 224-5653 • (715) 832-8424 www.baldwin.senate.gov/contact

Governor Tony Evers

5 East, State Capitol Bldg. Mailing address: P.O. Box 7863, Madison, WI 53707 • (608) 266EversInfo@wisconsin.gov • www.evers.wis.gov

Rep. Gae Magnafici 28th Assembly District P.O. Box 8953 • Madison, WI 53708-8953 (608) 237-9128 or 1-888-529-0028 • Fax (608) 282-3628

Rep.Magnafici@legis.wisconsin.gov

Senator Rob Stafsholt 10th Senate District Room 15 So., State Capitol, P.O. Box 7882 • Madison, WI 53708 (608) 266-7745

Sen.Stafsholt@legis.wisconsin.gov NO CALL LIST

1-888-382-22 or website: datcp.wi.gov

Dr. Carla Hauge

Dr. Thomas Hauge

Dr. Jordan Dittberner

Dr. Taylor Lundquist

St Croix River Road history explored

The River Road Rambler, Russ Hanson, will present a slideshow about a trip up the River Road from St Croix Falls into Burnett County 100 years ago on Jan. 16 at noon at the Wolf Creek Methodist Church.

Hanson grew up in the area, descendant of early homesteaders along the river and has collected a great deal of information on the St Croix River Valley.

Russ’ grandmother’s family, the Carnes, ran the Sunrise Ferry from 1909 to the 1940s, and his Hanson side trapped on the river, farmed in the area, ran a sawmill cutting second growth along the river and continue to live in the area.

He personally visited Nevers Dam the day before it washed out in 1954 and the day after it washed out overnight and his uncle helped dismantle it.

The event is free, open to anyone inter-

ested and also a late Christmas Party for the Sterling Eureka and Laketown Historical Society. It is a potluck lunch with SELHS providing ham and buns. Everyone is invited to the meeting in the historic 1922 Wolf Creek School and now the Methodist Church in uptown Wolf Creek.

Highlights of the tour include the woman who believed the spirits were telling her to dig for treasure along the river, the Indian burial ground, the Spanglers, Nevers sites and families, the Chippewa spirit stone and Wolf Creek early history, the ferries and more.

Wolf Creek is about 10 miles north of St Croix Falls along the River Road or west of Hwy 87 at the west end of Highway G. –Submitted by the Sterling Eureka and Laketown Historical Society.

2025 Ice Age hikes

The Polk-Burnett area chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance has announced its 2025 hikes.

The statewide trail stretches for more than 60 miles in the two counties and is built and maintained by chapter volunteers.

The hiking schedule kicks off Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. with a Sunday post-resolution hike at Straight Lake State Park. This out-andback hike will go to County Road I, generally following the bluffline above the Straight River, where trumpeter swans often are found. A park pass is required for cars in the park.

The chapter’s Earth Day hike on April 27 at 1 p.m. is a gentle hike along the Gandy Dancer State Trail, from the trail’s rest stop in Centuria to 190th Avenue. Hikers may bring a garbage bag for litter picked up.

The flora and fauna hike along the St. Croix River will be May 18 at 1 p.m. Hikers will meet at Lions Park on Hwy. 87 on the north end of St. Croix Falls and be led on a relaxed-pace and informative hike by naturalist Barb Delaney.

The chapter will celebrate National Trails Day on June 1 with a 1 p.m. hike. This year’s hike will explore a northern segment of the trail in the Indian Creek area. Hikers

LIBRARY NEWS

Celebrate National WordNerd Day with your library

will meet at the Ice Age parking lot on County O/50th Street, and traverse 3.1 miles of forested and hummocky terrain to 30th Street. The annual moonlight hike will be Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. Hikers will meet at the parking lot on County O/270th Avenue, hike north to McKenzie Lake, and north to the McKenzie Creek bridge, then back to the McKenzie boat landing, where Joe Snyder will set up a telescope for viewing the moon. This hike is about two miles long and of intermediate difficulty. Bring chairs, treats to share and a beverage. Chairs will be shuttled to the viewing area.

October will bring two hikes. The first on Oct. 5 at 1 p.m. is a kickoff hike for the 2025 Mammoth Challenge, which is a program of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. This hike launches from Zillmer parking lot on Day Road in St. Croix Falls and follows Mindy Creek downhill to Lions Park. The creek was named after an Ojibwe woman of the Bad River band who lived and worked by the St. Croix in the area. More about the challenge is available at iceagetrail.org.

The second October hike is the traditional end of season hike and potluck on Oct. 26 at 1 p.m. This easy two-

SEE HIKES, PAGE 7

Hey there, crossword puzzle solvers, word search wizards, Mad-Lib enthusiasts, and fans of dictionaries and thesauruses—this one’s for you! January 9th marks National Word-Nerd Day, a celebration of words, language, and the joy they bring to our lives. Language shapes how we communicate, express ourselves, and connect with others. National Word-Nerd Day is an opportunity to appreciate the richness of words and the role they play in culture. Whether you’re a lover of word games, a vocabulary virtuoso, or someone who enjoys the art of a well-placed pun, this day is all about having fun with language. The term “word nerd” might sound modern, but its roots trace back to the beloved Dr. Seuss. In his 1950 book If I Ran the Zoo, the narrator describes collecting a “nerd” for an imaginary zoo. While the word originally referred to an unusual creature, it eventually evolved into the playful term we use today to describe someone passionate about a particular topic—like words! By the 1980s, “nerd” had firmly entered the cultural lexicon, and “word nerd” became a badge of honor for language lovers everywhere. Your library is the perfect place to celebrate National Word-Nerd Day. From word games and puzzle books to resources for expanding your vocabulary, we have everything a word nerd could dream of—and it’s all free with your library card. So, whether you spend January 9th solving a crossword, diving into a thesaurus,

or creating a quirky Mad Lib with friends, don’t forget to stop by the library to stock up on wordy inspiration. Celebrate the power of language, embrace your inner word nerd, and let the fun begin!

Happy Word-Nerd Day from your library!

“The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter—’tis the difference between the lightning-bug and the lightning.” - Mark Twain

Geraldine E. Anderson Village Library, Dresser Phone: 715-755-2944, email: dresserpl@ dresserpubliclibrary.org, web: https://dresserpubliclibrary.org, or find us on Facebook.

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10-7, Tuesday and Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-1.

Outdoor book return open 24/7 at the blue box. Wi-Fi: Free 24/7 near the library.

Computers, printing, copies, etc. Call or email for special needs or assistance.

Print at the library from home or your mobile device with Princh. Pay at the library. New color copier/printer/ scanner

Small meeting room for your Zoom calls, etc. —Check-in with your library card. Call us with any special assistance needs. We will work to get you what you need, with safety our top priority.

Family Story Time: Every second Saturday of the month at 10:30 a.m. at the Library. Stories, interactive songs, and sensory activities suitable for a wide range of ages. Perfect for working families! It’s a library visit, literacy education, a

POLK COUNTY LAND TRANSFERS

Alden

Damon and Jennifer Tyman to Todd Bierl, 454 Little Falls Dr., in the Town of Alden.

Katie L. Thompson to the public, 1 parcel, in the Town of Alden.

Janet L. Geigle-Hickok and Jason S. Hickok to Katie and Triston Thompson, 1 parcel, in the Town of Alden.

Estate of Steven O. Young to Reba L. Young, 444 219th St. and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Alden.

Amery

Chief Manager Robin Haffner and Haffner Construction LLC to Daniel and Shannon Schacht, 207 Center St. W, in the City of Amery. Apple River

Estate of Curtis A. Helin to Ann M. Helin, 1283 60th St. County Rd. D, in the Town of Apple River.

Sole member Gregory T. Haugen and Haugen Properties LLC to Bryan and Linda Mullendore, 1334 70th St., in the Town of Apple River.

bit of music, and play all in one stop before lunch and naptime. Preschool -Kindergarten will most benefit.

Second Saturday Story Time, Jan. 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the library. Stories, songs, crafts, fun. Check our website, Facebook, or call for more information on programming.

St. Croix Falls Public Library Phone: 715-483-1777, email: scflibrary@scfpl. org, web: https://www. scfpl.org, Facebook too.

Hours/Services: M-F 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. 24/7 After Hours Locker Pick-up - To schedule –call 715-483-1777 or email scflibrary@scfpl.org

Book Return: 24/7 through the return slot near the main entrance. Free Wi-Fi 24/7 near the library.

Computers, printing, faxing, copies, etc. Call or email for special needs or assistance. Knit and Crochet Group, every second Monday of each month from 6-8 p.m. Come and stitch with us. Bring your project or start a new one.

Winter Storytime, every Wednesday, Jan. 8 – Feb. 19 at 10:15 a.m.

Wellness is for Everyone Kickoff, Jan. 11 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Design a Tote bag, take home self-care items, craft, learn about the program.

Workshop Series from January-June 2025 - FREE! Workshops include a variety of activities. These programs are made possible through a collaboration between the St. Croix Falls Public Library and the Center for Creativity and Public Health with funding provided by grants

Vicky L. Desota to Albert Cebery, Jr. and Jennifer C. Cebery, 1 parcel, in the Town of Apple River.

Balsam Lake

Gary L. Fredrickson to Wisconsin Department of Transportation, 101 Pearl St., in the Village of Balsam Lake.

Charles J. Turner to Trustee Jeffrey T. Turner and Turner Family Trust One, 1 parcel, in the Town of Balsam Lake.

Beaver

Trustees Joseph and Mary Lou Barcevac to Barcevac Land Trust, 1 parcel, in the Town of Beaver.

Trustees Joseph and Mary Lou Barcevac and the Barcevac Land Trust Agreement to Annette and Scott Burhop, 1 parcel, in the Town of Beaver.

Estate of Carol Ann Adamczyk to Timothy Adamczyk, 1384 15th St., in the Town of Beaver. Timothy Adamczyk to Amy L. Adamczyk, 1384 15th St., in the Town of

from the St Croix Valley Foundation and the Horst Rechelbacher Foundation

Check our website, Face Book, or call for more information on programming.

Wilberg Memorial Public Library of Osceola Phone: 715-294-2310, email: osceolapl@osceolapubliclibrary.org, web: www.osceolapubliclibrary.org, or find us on Facebook.

Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m-1 p.m. Please call us if you need special assistance to pick up your holds.

Book Return: 24/7 at drop box near drive thru window.

Free Wi-Fi 24/7. Follow our Facebook page or website for details.

Join us for the magic of story time – where books come alive! Storytime Tuesdays at 10:30 am. LEGO Club – first and third Thursdays of the month at 4 p.m.

Get Lit - The Library Book Club that meets at the Cascade Bar & Grill - first Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Pick up a copy of the book from the library.

Lunch with a Librarian. Bring your lunch to the library to chat about books, movies, or anything else library related. first and third Monday of the month at 12:30 p.m.

Adult Winter Reading Program Jan. 2-March 31. Read, watch, or participate to earn entries into the prize drawing. Stop into the library for more details.

Third Annual WMPL puzzle contest Jan. 25 at 10:30 a.m. Get your team of up to four people together to puzzle for prizes.

Beaver.

Christina and Russell Patten to Maple Ridge LLC, 4 parcels, in the Town of Beaver.

Black Brook

Trustee Julie A. Riendeau, Co-Trustee

Joshua D. Riendeau and the Joshua D. Riendeau and Julie Ann Riendeau Marital Property Trust to the Town of Black Brook, 202 70th St., in the Town of Black Brook.

Bone Lake

Anita J. Baker/Crandell to Anita and Mark Baker and Anita Crandell, 1 parcel, in the Town of Bone Lake.

Anita and Mark Baker and Anita Crandell to Brent, David, and Jake Crandell and Shyla Mallo, 2940 120th St. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Bone Lake.

Paul D. Pearson to the Paul D. Pearson Living Trust, 2632 Long Lake Ln., in the Town of Bone Lake.

Centuria

Wayne K. Bakke to K&C House LLC, 809

Superior Ave., in the Village of Centuria. Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC to LVNV Funding LLC, Midland Credit Management Inc., Jenica Rowell and St. Croix Regional Medical Center, 609 4th St., in the Village of Centuria. Clam Falls

Heather and Robert O’Brien to Chadwin B. Thomas, 1073 350th Ave. County Rd. E, in the Town of Clam Falls.

Clayton

Surveyor Dustin J. LaBlonde to NCP SSNS I LLC, 18 115th Ave., in the Town of Clayton. Dresser

Joseph E. Chambers to Murad Aslam and Selena Neidermyer, 104 South St. W, in the Village of Dresser. Eureka

Alisha and Steven Olson to Julia Cederberg and Justin Klein, 2088 247th St., in the Town of Eureka.

Trustee Loren H. Lofgren and The Harland

SEE LAND, PAGE 11

Ronald Kerwin Elmer

Ronald “Rip” Elmer of Wanderoos died Dec. 28, 2024, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn. He was 67.

Ronald Kerwin Elmer was born May 8, 1957, to Ralph and Arlene (Berget) Elmer in Amery. He was the fifth out of eight children.

Rip was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Garfield. On March 10, 1984, he was united in marriage to Debra Jean Mork. They made their home in Wanderoos, where he was on the Garfield Fire Department for 45 years. Rip worked a number of jobs, but his last job was with Bending Branches in Osceola.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Arlene; niece, Kelli Elmer; great-niece and nephew, Jenna Kay Boe and Caleb Elmer; sister-in-laws, Bette Elmer and Sharon Elmer; and brother-in-law, Wayne Boe.

Left to mourn are his wife, Debbie of 40 years; brothers and sister, Andy, Mike (Pam), Debbie Boe, Rick (Karen), Tim (Terry), Dan (Sharon), Jeff (Carrie); many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews; along with other family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials would be preferred.

A funeral service was held Jan. 2 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Amery.

To sign an online guestbook and view a video tribute, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery.

HIKE: 2025 Ice Age Trail hikes

FROM PAGE 6

mile hike on the Trade River north segment will go from 150th Street to the chapter shed on 140th Street. Non-hikers may join the potluck at 2 p.m.

People may register for hikes by calling Cheryl Whitman at 715 371-0048 or Barb Ceder at 715 4108069, or by contacting

ALLIANCE CHURCH OF THE VALLEY

59 Hwy. 35 South, St. Croix Falls 715-483-00

www.stcroixalliance.com

Lead Pastor Jeff Naegelen

Co-Lead Pastor Chris Folkestad

ASSUMPTION OF THE

BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

CATHOLIC CHURCH East Farmington

Rev. Joseph Madanu

BETHANY LUTHERAN Star Prairie

Pastor Dan Pennington (715) 248-3730 blcsp@frontiernet.net

BETHESDA LUTHERAN LCMC

1947 0th Ave. Dresser Sand Lake 715-755-2562

www.bethesdalutheran.ws

Pastor Peter Rimmereid Associate Pastor Scott Adkins

CEDARBEND CHURCH

P.O. BOX 414, Osceola Matt Hayton

connect@cedarbendchurch.com

SUNDAY: Worship, 10:30 a.m., 373 280th St., Osceola, (old Neuroscience building).

CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH 150 Fifth Street

Marine on St. Croix, Minn.

Pastor Joel Martin 651-433-3222

EL SALEM/TWIN FALLS

CHRISTIAN CENTER

Six miles east of Dresser on

Rita Alice Schmidt

Rita Alice Schmidt of Osceola died Dec. 31, 2024, at the Christian Community Home of Osceola. She was 96.

Rita was born in St Paul, Minn., on April 25, 1928. She was united in marriage to Harold Schmidt on Oct. 15, 1948, in Maplewood, Minn., where she and Harold raised their four children. In 1974, Rita and Harold purchased the Woodhill farm in Osceola and converted the 100-yearold barn to a retail operation known as Woodhill Cheese and Liquors with antiques they had been collecting, cheese, liquor and gifts.

Rita gave all her energies to her customers from preparing cheese trays, to educating them on a large variety of cheese and liquor.

Retirement took Rita and Harold to Lake Havasu, Ariz., where she could expand on her talents for quilting and crafts. As a couple they made new friends and reconnected with ‘old’ friends for 24 years. When Harold passed in 2019, her time was spent sewing, working on gardens at the lake and enjoying the hummingbirds that returned to her feeders in droves. Rita was also member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Taylors Falls.

Roberta D. Jelle

Roberta D. (nee Martell) Jelle of Somerset, died peacefully on Jan. 3, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was 88.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years Harold John; parents, Alphonse (Al) and Ida Meister and her son Brian.

Rita is survived by her children, Connie (Mike) Wood of Marco Island, Fla.; Tom Schmidt of Taylors Falls, Minn.; Joan (Tim) Stelter of Osceola and daughter-in-law, Peggy Schmidt (Mike) Provenzano of Shoreview, Minn.; grandchildren, Jon (Julie) Wood, Kate (Kelly) Wynn, Adam (Nicole) Droher, Matthew (Tonya) Droher, Sarah (Kyle) Borrell, Anthony (Titi) Schmidt, and Daniel (Sami) Schmidt; great-grandchildren, Sienna, Sawyer, Sasha, Savannah, Asher, Everett, Ida, Arlo, Alexa, Lyla, Croix, Ryleigh, Tate, Camila, Eliana, Finley and Zoey; sister, Rose Ulrich and brother, Alvin (Al) Meister; also, many nieces and nephews.

A mass of Christian Burial for Rita will be Jan. 8 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Taylors Falls, Minn. An evening visitation will be Jan. 7, from 4 -7 p.m. at Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola and will be continued one hour prior to Mass on Wednesday.

A private interment will be in Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 3400 Century Ave. N., St. Paul, Minn.

The family of Rita would like to thank the caring staff at the Christian Community Home of Osceola for assisting Rita in her valiant fight against congestive heart failure.

Memorials are preferred to the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) at www.myeloma.org. or Children’s MN www.childrensmn.org/giving.

Condolences may be expressed on line at www. grandstrandfh.com.

travel, going to the casino, watching sports of any and every kind, loved TV cowboy westerns, and getting together with friends. Roberta loved being together with her family most of all, and they loved being with her.

IndianheadChapter@ iceagetrail.org Hikes will be cancelled if the weather is inclement.

Hikers should bring water and a snack and dress for the weather. Intersections near the start of each hike will feature yellow Ice Age event signs for directions.

Co. Rd. F, 1751 100th Ave. Pastor Darryl R. Olson 715-755-33

EUREKA BAPTIST CHURCH 2393 210th Ave., St. Croix Falls Pastor Seth Brickley 715-483-9464

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 661A West Street Taylors Falls, MN 55084 651-465-6792 www.firstbaptisttaylorsfalls.com Dr. Kevin Schumann, Pastor

FIRST EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN 561 Chestnut St. Taylors Falls, Minn.

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN 719 Nevada St. St. Croix Falls Reverend David Maghakian 715-483-3550 (office)

GRACE CHURCH

Pastor Mark Barlow 722 Seminole Ave. Osceola 715-417-8594 gracechurchosceola.com

GRACE BEREAN FELLOWSHIP 421 4th Street, Centuria Duane Gallentine, Pastor 715-755-2523 FRIDAY and SUNDAY KJV Bible Study/Fellowship

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH Nye Area/Wisconsin Synod 28 70th Avenue Pastor Jim Bourman

Church listings

Roberta was born in Janesville, Wis., to Violet and Anthony Martell. After a brief move to Houlton when Roberta was very young, the Martell’s then moved to Somerset. Roberta attended Somerset schools from second grade through high school graduation where she made many life-long friends.

Roberta married Vernon Jelle on Dec. 2, 1967, and together they raised four sons. Roberta was an avid reader; she loved shopping,

HOLY CROSS ORTHODOX

CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Meeting at Zion Lutheran Church 28005 Old Towne Road Chisago Lakes, Minn. 651-260-5100 www.holyx.net

Fr. Bill Neumann, pastor

HOLY TRINITY

ORTHODOX CHURCH 523 First Street, Clayton 715-948-2203 Father Christopher Wojcik

HOPE EVANGELICAL

FREE CHURCH 933 248th Street, one mile north of Osceola on Highway 35 Pastor Neil Schindler 715-294-21 • www.hefc.org

JOURNEY CHURCH 131 Broadway, Amery www.journeychurch.city office@journeychurch.city 715-268-2223

NEW LIFE

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Non-denominational 201 State Hwy. 35, Dresser Pastor Tony Minell, 715-417-1982 galatiansii20@yahoo.com Church office: 715-417-45

OSCEOLA

COMMUNITY CHURCH

2492 Education Drive, Osceola Pastor Josiah Williams www.occnow.org

OSCEOLA MEDICAL CENTER SPIRITUAL CARE 2600 65th Avenue, Osceola https: myomc.org/wellness/ spiritual-care 715-294-21 Chapel open daily for meditation.

OSCEOLA UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

306 River Street, Osceola P.O. Box 447 Pastor Jack Starr 715-755-2275 osceolaunitedmethodistchurch@gmail.com

PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA), 2355 Clark Rd., Dresser 715-755-2515 • plcdresser.org plcdresseroffice@gmail.com

Pastor Melissa Carmack Find us on Facebook. Live steam YouTube. Sundays 9 a.m.

PRAIRIEVIEW COVENANT CHURCH OF NEW RICHMOND 1396 210th Ave. 2 miles north of New Richmond on Hwy. 65 Pastor Rudy King 715-248-0600

REDEEMER EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH Wisconsin Synod Corner of Adams & Louisiana St. Croix Falls Rev. Timothy Blauert 715-483-3401

Roberta was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Diana Krantz, and brother-in-law, Jim Lachaussie.

She is survived by her loving husband and best friend, Vern, and four sons, Don (Deborah) Wishard, Brad (Tammie) Wishard, Bryan Wishard, and Tony (Joni) Wishard, nine grandchildren, five great- grandchildren; brother, John (Gayla) Martell, and sister, Marlene Lachaussie, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Roberta’s family would like to thank Lakeview Hospice for their wonderful care and compassion. The family will have a private gathering, with future interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Cremation services provided by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

ST. ANNE PARISH 139 Church Hill Road Somerset, WI 54025 715-247-3310 Rev. Joseph Madanu

If you would like to

call 715-294-2314.

ST. CROIX FALLS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Upper St. Croix Parish 300 North Adams Street St. Croix Falls 715-483-9494 churches@centurytel.net umstcroixfallswolfcreek.org

Pastor Jenny Lee

ST. CROIX UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP 201 N. Adams, St. Croix Falls www.scuuf.org Rev. Kelli Clement

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER CATHOLIC CHURCH Franconia, MN 651-465-7345 www.stfrancisfranconia.org Fr. John Drees

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC Osceola Rev. Joseph Madanu 715-294-2243

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC 490 Bench Street Taylors Falls, Minnesota 651-465-7345

www.stjosephtaylorsfalls.org Fr. John Drees

RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH LIGHTHOUSE 89 160th Street St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin 715-483-5378 Pastor Jonah Fetzer

SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD 140 Madison Street St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark Schoen 715-483-86

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TAYLORS FALLS Rev. Tom Ervasti 651-242-6046 Sunday services at 10 a.m.

TRINITY EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH (WELS) 300 Seminole Ave., (Ct H M) Osceola 715-294-2828

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SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

Comets drop Osceola boys hoops in overtime

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COMO

The Osceola boys basketball team dropped its third game by four points or less, this time at the hand of Cameron, 43-41, Dec. 27 in overtime.

“We’ve played some really good basketball for large stretches early on this season but have suffered several close losses to some really good teams,” OHS coach Tyler Olson said. “Our team is learning

on the fly what it takes to win games, and if we stay the course, we know these experiences will benefit us as a group moving forward.”

OHS outrebounded Cameron by seven, but free throws hampered it (Cameron went 9-for-16, while the Chieftains were 0-for-2) and three-point shooting (Osceola was 4-for-28).

“Offensively, I was pleased with our job against their zone, generating good looks,” Olson added.

“Unfortunately, we just struggled to hit some of the shots we would normally drop.”

Waylon Cole finished with a game-high 16 points. He also added nine rebounds and four steals. Caleb Irlbeck contributed 13 points and four rebounds. Jonah Race pulled down six rebounds.

Carter Cherney, Parker Davis, and Treye Zimmerman finished with 11 points for Cameron each.

Saints split non-conference matchups

The St. Croix Falls boys basketball team posted a 60-51 road victory over Shell Lake Jan. 3.

“We played solid defense for both halves of basketball,” SCF coach Chad Hall said. “Offensively, we spread the ball but struggled intermittently with turnovers. Once we limited our turnovers, we controlled the game nicely.”

Anders Waterworth had a team-high 20 points as he went 5-for-11 from three-point range.

Elliot Wilson recorded 15 points, eight rebounds,

and four steals. Caden Folkestad chipped in with 12 points and eight rebounds. Nels Sederlund finished with 10 rebounds and eight assists.

“Coming out of halftime, we turned the ball over way too often,” Hall added. “We settled in, took care of the ball, took back the lead, and never looked back.”

The Saints (2-5 overall) grabbed 34 rebounds, and thanks to Sederlund’s eight assists, they finished with 15 overall.

“The guys work hard and keep improving, so every game is exciting to

see how well they play,” Hall concluded.

SOMERSET 72, ST. CROIX FALLS 60

The Spartans raced out to a 15-point halftime lead Dec. 28, enough for them to prevail.

“We had some issues with fouls throughout the game,” Hall explained. “We put Somerset on the foul line far too often. They shot around 20 free throws in the first half alone.”

Waterworth led the Saints with 15 points, hitting a pair of three-pointers, while

Wilson chipped in with a double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds.

Johnny Johnson added 12 points, sinking all six of his free-throw attempts. Brett Sladky recorded nine points and four rebounds.

“For the last several minutes, we struggled to convert on the offensive end and were in foul mode,” Hall added. “Somerset did a nice job making free throws to close the game.”

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Seniors led OHS girls to win over Barron

The three Osceola girls basketball seniors of Maddie Newton, Josie Mork, and Kya Krenz combined for 26 points and 13 steals as the Chieftains defeated Barron 34-32 Jan. 3.

“They lead us to this victory,” OHS coach Mike Haase said. “They helped us take care of the ball when we had a lead and an opportunity to put the game away at the end.”

Newton had a teamhigh 11 points, along with six steals. Mork finished with eight points, five rebounds, and six steals. Krenz scored seven points, along with five rebounds.

“We trailed by three points late in the game and went on a 5-0 run

My dog can’t read

Luckily I could read the sign saying the waterfowl refuge on the other side of the road had just opened to hunting. My hope was that surviving pheasants living on the refuge had been pushed off the public land into this small parcel of private property I had permission to hunt. It didn’t take long to get into our first pheasant. Deke, my Small Munsterlander was locked up on a solid point. The only problem was that Deke was 127 yards away and the rooster flew the coop before I got there. Although the rooster got away I was impressed with my young pointer who had held that old cock pheasant in the brush and bramble for almost two minutes. Deke had followed that bird into

Saints struggle in nonconference matchups

The St. Croix Falls girls basketball team faced a challenging slate of non-conference games during the holiday season and into the new year, suffering losses to Somerset, Amery, and Baldwin-Woodville.

BALDWIN-WOODVILLE 53, ST. CROIX FALLS 19

The Blackhawks limited the Saints to six field goals from the field as they won by 34 in the Jan. 3 game.

Haley Jordt led B-W with 14 points and six rebounds. Hailey Cota added 12 points, while Trinity Karau pulled down 10 rebounds.

B-W outrebounded SCF by 17 and committed 12 more assists.

Catherine Williams led the Saints (1-9 overall) with seven points and five steals. Olivia Shimon added four points and four rebounds.

The Saints struggled to connect from beyond the arc, going 0-for-12 from three-point range.

AMERY 51, ST. CROIX FALLS 25

The Saints committed 21 turnovers, 16 of which were Amery steals, as the Warriors rolled to the Jan. 2 win.

to end the game,” Haase mentioned, thanks to free throws by Newton, a two-pointer by Newton, and a free throw by Krenz.

Osceola (3-5 overall)

SEE OHS GBB, PAGE 10

a five acre woodlot with a pond full of cattails and brush. There were tracks in the snow everywhere; tracks crossing tracks and trails crossing trails. I wondered how my dogs could sort it all out. Or did they just use that amazing olfactory system to locate the hottest scent and work that bird?

I had my two other other dogs with me. Briar and Chase, eight and 11 year old Springador’s that were pros at the game of pheasants. They were popping hens up out of the cattails like popcorn but hens weren’t legal fare here. Chase and Briar are trained to stick close, but fresh scent can test any dog’s training. At age 11, Chase is easy to keep up with. Chase is 77 in dog years while I’m just a kid at 74. Briar is only eight and she knows how to stay close but after the fifth hen popped up in front of me it really

Luci Aizpurua scored 20 points for the Warriors and had six steals. Miley Brotzel scored 11 points and had four steals, and

Alex Edwards recorded seven points and eight rebounds.

The Warriors went 5-for-20 from the threepoint range compared to St. Croix Falls’ 0-for-6.

Catherine Wiliams again paced St. Croix Falls with six points and six rebounds, while Madi Johnson contributed four points and seven rebounds.

SOMERSET 75, ST. CROIX FALLS 25

The Spartans raced out to a 40-13 halftime lead to cruise to the Dec. 28 victory.

Lucy Nichols led four Spartans with a gamehigh 15 points, with six assists and four steals.

Grace Braithwaite added 14 points, 17 rebounds, six assists and five steals. Avery Hoff posted 14 points as Ashley Carful tallied 10 points and seven rebounds.

Somerset outrebounded SCF by 21 and had 11 more assists. The Saints committed 22 turnovers, 13 of which were Somerset steals.

Catherine Williams scored 10 points for the Saints, while Amber Bateman scored eight and chipped in with five rebounds.

The Saints shot 0-for11 from three-point range.

-Statistical recap aided by AI.

Saints show off their depth by winning Northern Badger

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

The St. Croix Falls boys wrestling team placed five wrestlers in the top four in their weight classes to win its division at the Northern Badger Wrestling Classic.

stick for where our guys are compared to the area for future postseason matchups,” said SCF coach Joe Raygor. “The kids poured a lot of heart and effort into the two days, having all 14 wrestlers score points and 13 of the 14 place in the top 11.”

The Saints finished with 341.5 pints over the two-day event held Dec. 27-28 in River Falls. That was also the most points scored out of the 44 teams competing. St. Croix Central was second with 318, followed by Freedom’s 307.5.

“It’s a nice December test as a measuring

Griffin Marko was the lone Saints champion at 190 pounds, finishing 5-0 thanks to three decisions, a pin, and a technical fall. The final win was a 9-8 decision over St. Croix Central’s Brock Swenson.

Columnist

Jim Bennett

Wild River Trails is brought to you by:

WILD RIVER TRAILS

FROM PAGE 9

Seniors lead girls to win over Barron

shot 28.9 percent from the field compared to Barron’s 33.3. The Chieftains went 6-for-10 from the charity stripe, while the Bears went 3-for-8.

“The stat sheet will show that we won this game from the freethrow line,” Haase added. “Both teams were almost identical in almost every other category. Neither team shot many free throws, but we made ours count, especially at the end of the game.”

Both teams had the same rebounds (28) and turnovers (26).

Rylin Vruwink had

a game-high 15 points for the Bears as Isabell Donica added 11. Kasey Stauner posted eight rebounds, five assists, and seven steals.

“I was impressed with how our girls executed in the last few minutes of the game,” Haase stated. “We’re showing some great growth in that area of competition, and it showed in this game.”

CAMERON 68, OSCEOLA 40

Cameron outscored the Chieftains by 18 in the second half to pull away in the Dec. 27 game.

Bailey Olson recorded a game-high 21 points for Cameron, while

Bridgette Mohns tossed in 15. Lexi Kuffel and Abbie Olson posted nine points each.

Inez Schmidt pulled down a team-high seven rebounds. Kuffel dished out nine assists and 14 steals.

The Comets shot 24-for-66 from the field overall compared to OHS’ 9-for-28. Cameron also had 11 more assists and committed 18 fewer turnovers.

Josie Mork led Osceola with 13 points and six rebounds, and Maddie Newton finished with 12 points. Aspen Jeske pulled down six rebounds.

SCF WRESTLING: Saints win Northern Badger

“Griffin showed a lot of heart overcoming adversity in that match and finding a way,” Raygor added.

Logan Bockman (285 pounds) and Drake Peterson (175 pounds) each added second-place finishes. Bockman used three pins and a tiebreaker to advance to the finals before falling to Freedom’s Hunter Vander Heiden in the final. Peterson’s four wins were two pins,

a technical fall, and a decision before losing to Freedom’s Vincent Cook 7-5 in the final.

Kaiden Hahn (113 pounds) was third with his only loss to St. Croix Central’s Trennon Holzer in the semifinal. He rebounded to defeat Hayward’s Carter Roach and DePere’s Seth Corrigan. Joe Petherbridge (215 pounds) finished fourth, going 5-2. All five of his wins were via pins. Isaac Briggs (144 pounds) was fifth, winning four matches.

Other Saints who placed included Copelan Grimes (106 pounds, 11th), Miles Kelly (120 pounds, 11th), Carter Ridgeway (126 pounds, 9th), Dominic Viebrock (132 pounds, 6th), Chase Steffen (150 pounds, 11th), Connor Weber (157 pounds, 11th), Payton Kelly (165 pounds, 6th), “I was just really proud of how our kids represented the community,” Raygor said. “They won with class, and winning this tournament truly took a team effort.”

Osceola has four top five finishes

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

Malakai Barker was the highest-place finisher for the Osceola boys wrestling team at the Northern Badger Wrestling Classic Dec. 28 in River Falls.

Barker took third at 106 pounds, going 4-1. The only loss was to Ellsworth’s Austin Peterson in the semifinals before rebounding to defeat River Falls’ Isaiah Black and St. Croix Central’s Austin Voeltz to claim third. Barker’s pin over Black was in 41 seconds. He improved to 19-4 overall.

Hunter Kromrey recorded a fourth at

132 pounds, finishing 4-2, with his only losses being in sudden victory to Chetek-Weyerhaeuser/Prairie Farm’s Brady Gesler and a 10-6 decision to DePere’s Grady Gallagher. His four wins were by two pins and two decisions to improve his record to 18-6 overall.

Cody Meyer also took fourth at 150 pounds, bringing his record to 17-7. His four wins were by pin, two major decisions, and a decision. The major decisions were over Blair-Taylor’s Billy Miller and Freedom’s Trent Navvefeld. Elliot Havlish was fifth at 215 pounds as he went 5-2, losing via

pin to Freedom’s Henry Vander Heiden and an 8-7 decision to St. Croix Central’s Hayden Buckel. Four of five Havlish’s wins were courtesy of pins, including 51 seconds over Ellsworth’s Breken Young. Other Chieftains who placed included Isaac Dunnom (157 pounds, sixth), Talon Berg (138), and Logan Meyer (144), who each took ninth, and Wyatt Hastings (165, 11th).

Osceola finished fifth in the Division 1 standings with 209 points. St. Croix Central won the division with 318 points, followed by Freedom’s 307.5 and River Falls’ 248.5.

Vee finishes second at Rebel Girls Holiday Classic

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

Lauryn Vee led the St. Croix Falls girls wrestling team at the Champlin Park Rebel Girls Holiday Classic Dec. 27.

Vee was second at 130 pounds as she used two pins to advance to the final before losing

to Centennial’s Nora Akpan via pin.

Nevaeh Nwachukwu placed third at 142 pounds, going 2-1. Her two wins were a technical fall and a decision.

Kylie Miller was fourth at 148 pounds, while Autumn Steffen took fifth at 170 pounds.

Julianna Johnson won the 118-pound

bracket on the junior varsity level with three pins and a major decision, while Rae Bellezza finished second at 100 pounds.

“It’s Rae’s first year, and she’s pretty undersized, so it was awesome to see her find some success,” SCF coach Joe

SEE SCF GIRLS, PAGE 15

Now Hiring for Full-Time Program Development Position

Interfaith Caregivers of Polk County is seeking someone to increase Interfaith’ s name recognition and recruit new donors, clients, and volunteers. The right person for this position is outgoing and can develop relationships successfully. Knowing how to tell a story is a must! Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, creating content for quarterly newsletters, appeals, and press releases. Managing website and social media content. Preparing bulk mailings. Developing and maintaining activities which include attaining new clients, volunteers, and donors. Data entry and maintaining files and records in Bloomerang. Sending welcome and thank you cards and letters.

Qualifications and Experience

• Strong writing and verbal communication skills

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook (Canva is a plus)

• Self-Motivated & Energetic

• Organized with attention to detail

• Trustworthy

• Ability to meet deadlines

• Fundraising experience is a plus

• Strong presentation skills and the ability to create PowerPoint presentations

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Maintain positive and effective working relationships within and outside the program

Experience

1 year of office experience, 2 years of college preferred. Must have computer skills. Prefer experience working with seniors, adults with disabilities, and volunteers.

Benefits

• Vacation Time Off

• Sick Time Off

• Paid Holidays

• Work will be done out of our St. Croix Falls office.

POLK COUNTY LAND TRANSFERS

FROM PAGE 6

C. Lofgren and Sharron A. Lofgren Trust Agreement to Loren H. Lofgren, 1941 State Hwy 35 and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Eureka.

Ethan Deiss to Mitchel and Orianna Bowe, 2320 201st Ave., in the Town of Eureka.

Farmington

Avant Builders LLC, Chief Operating Officer

Jennifer Holland, and Andrew and Jovonna Erickson to Andrew and Jovonna Erickson, 333 238th St., in the Town of Farmington.

Frederic

Abby and Joseph Burns to Michael Barr, 101 United Way E and 1 other parcel, in the Village of Frederic.

Garfield

Estate of Evelyn Ruby Martinson and Declarants Brandon and Brock Olson to Brandon Olson, 693 First St. E and 2 other parcels, in the Town of Garfield.

Brock A. Olson to Brandon A. Olson, 693 First St. E and 2 other parcels, in the Town of Garfield.

Brandon A. Olson to Joshua D. Videen, 693 First St. E and 2 other parcels, in the Town of Garfield.

Scott A. Beaver to Brett and Lindsey Hesley, 822 138th St., in the Town of Garfield.

Amoya and Clay White

to Dale Simonson, 1016 188th St., in the Town of Garfield.

Georgetown Attorney in Fact Corrine G. Dahl and Robin M. Petersen to Elina S. Kuusisto, 2220 100th St. County Rd. I, in the Town of Georgetown.

Trustee Richard E. Boss, Jr., Trustee Jo Ann M. Boss and The Trust Agreement of Richard Edward Boss Jr. to James and Michelle Boss, 2097 W Bone Lake Dr., in the Town of Georgetown.

WI DNR to Ronald B. Hansen Trust, 1831 80th St. County Rd. E and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Georgetown.

Kelly and Mikel Huppert to Trustees Kelly and Mikel Huppert and the Mikel R. Huppert and Kelly A. Huppert Revocable Trust, 2397 108th St. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Georgetown.

Kevin R. Witt to Trustee Kevin Witt and the Kevin Witt Revocable Trust, 2021 Island View Ln. and 2062 100th St. County Rd. I, in the Town of Georgetown.

Johnstown

Todd S. Stewart to Sally L. Stewart, 1973 Polk Barron St., 2 parcels, in the Town of Johnstown.

WI DNR to Matthew, Michael and Robert Swank, 2 parcels, in the Town of Johnstown.

Laketown

Conny E. Eley and

Conny E. Solum to

Billy Schallenberger and Paige Sells, 2505 Pickerel Lake Ln., in the Town of Laketown.

Lorain

Craig, Michael, and Randall Wasko to Craig, Michael, and Randall Wasko, 125 305th Ave. County Rd. E and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Lorain.

Michael D. Wasko to Nathan and Nicholas Wasko, 125 305th Ave. County Rd. E and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Lorain.

Randall J. Wasko to Megan A. Beckmann and Jennifer and Kyle Wasko, 125 305th Ave. County Rd. E and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Lorain.

Craig A. Wasko to John A. Wasko, 125 305th Ave. County Rd. E and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Lorain.

Ice Age Trail Alliance Inc. and CEO Luke Kloberdanz to Polk County, 1 parcel, in the Town of Lorain.

Milltown

Marion J. Turner to Charles Turner, Jr., 8 parcels, in the Town of Milltown.

Estate of Victor Lloyd Anderson to Ann F. Anderson and Anorine F. Anderson, 624 Parkins Ave., in the Village of Milltown.

Ann F. Anderson and Anorine F. Anderson to Erick D. Swanson,

624 Parkins Ave., in the Village of Milltown.

Osceola

Estate of William Anthony Michaud to Anna T. Lund, Lea M. Michaud and Lisa C. Potting, 101 Marvin St., in the Village of Osceola.

Peggy and Roy Basham to The Basham Family Revocable Trust, 720 Cessna Rd., in the Town of Osceola.

Diamond Hex Surveying and Surveyor Carl W. Hetfeld to Chairperson Dale Lindh, Town of Osceola and Town Clerk Dani Pratt, 1 parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Surveyor Joshua D. Yunker and Yunker Land Surveying LLC to Susan and Timothy Demenge, 2483 93rd Ave., and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Surveyor Michael J. Erickson and Four Seasons Land Surveying LLC to Jernan LLC, 3 parcels, in the Village of Osceola.

Rebecca J. Ekstrand to Ron W. Ekstrand, 1 parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Surveyor Michael L. Markee and Sunrise Land Surveying LLC to Bruce Nelson, 2 parcels, in the Town of Osceola.

Andrew and Rebecca Flater and Rebecca Kornell Flater to Jonathon E. Harlander and Yvette M. Tourville, 2171 86th Ave., in the Town of Osceola.

Debra S. Rose to the Revocable Trust Agreement of Debra Sharon Rose, 515 3rd Ave., in the Village of Osceola.

Aiden and Brianna Ellis to Sam and Silvia Kersten, 403 8th Ave., in the Village of Osceola.

Ann M. Helin to Head 2 Toe Revocable Living Trust, 732 Simmon Dr., in the Town of Osceola.

Carol L. Arens and Thomas C. Hove to Trustee Thomas C. Hove, Trustee Carol L. Arens, Carol L. Arens Join Revocable Trust Agreement and the Carol L. Arens and Thomas C. Hove Joint Revocable Trust Agreement, 1976 80th Ave., 801 Horse Lake Ln. and 2 other parcels, in the Town of Osceola.

Managing Partner James M. Eichten, President Kevin Eichten,

Run Free Partnership and Partner Anthony Zais to James and Laura Eichten, 2 parcels, in the Town of Osceola.

Timothy Murphy to Carie and Kristopher Krentz, 200 Fox Circ., in the Village of Osceola.

Mark and Sherry Hansen to Jeremy Juvland, 2102 75th Ave. County Rd. M, in the Town of Osceola.

Becki K. Zeuli to Bradley T. Zeuli, 918 River Rd. County Rd. S, in the Town of Osceola.

Aaron and Sonja Degerstrom to Hunter W. Degerstrom, 983 South View Ln., in the Town of Osceola.

Sterling

Personal rep. James E. Illetschko Jr. and the Estate of James E. Illetschko to James Jr. and Jennifer Illetschko, 2566 283rd St. and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Sterling.

Estate of George W. Sornson to George Bendt Sornson, 1 parcel, in the Town of Sterling.

Marshall P. Dillman to Greg Barstow and Britta Gale, 2445 270th Ave., in the Town of Sterling.

Estate of George William Sornson to Christian and George Sornson, 4 parcels, in the Town of Sterling.

Carole Lahti and Darla and Donald Varga to Madisen N. Jensen, 2689 250th Ave., in the Town of Sterling.

Diamond Hex Surveying and Surveyor Carl W. Hetfeld to ML Holst LLC, 2753 285th Ave., in the Town of Sterling.

Personal Representative Breanna K. Krohn and the Estate of Thomas Edward Krohn to Xiong Mee Vue and Chao Xiong, 2878 290th St., in the Town of Sterling.

Diamond Hex Surveying and Surveyor Carl W. Hetfeld to ML Holst LLC, 2753 285th Ave., in the Town of Sterling. St. Croix Falls

Theresa Jones to Trustees Carolyn and James Krueger and the James R. Krueger and Carolyn M. Krueger Trust, 1337 Greentree Dr., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Joanne and Philip Peterson to the Philip and Joanne Peterson Family Trust, 2 parcels, in the

POLK COUNTY COURT NEWS

Exceeding speed zones

• Lexis R. Olson, 20, Balsam Lake, pled no contest and was fined $175.30.

• Marquis D. Zelle, 30, Minneapolis, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $225.70.

Fail/change lane- passing stop emergency vehicle

• Tyler J. Bolstad, 30, Milltown, pled no contest and was fined $263.50.

• Gerald L. Stende, 73, Osceola, pled no contest and was fined $263.50. Failure to yield right of way

• Lori J. Damkaer, 66, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $187.90.

City of St. Croix Falls.

First National Community Bank to Maynards Development LLP, 2201 Glacier Dr., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Timothy Maitrejean, Maynards Development LLP, Trustee Terry Nesvold and the Trust Agreement of Terry R. and Joyce A. Nesvold to WCV Solutions LLC, 2201 Glacier Dr., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Member Shannon Donaghue and Donaghue Rentals LLC to Trustees

Sandra Dolphin and Lawrence Tran and The Trust Agreement of Lawrence Tran and Sandra Dolphin.

Donald Lawrence to David Kinworthy, 1 parcel, in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Marion J. Turner to Charles Turner, Jr., 3 parcels, in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

First National Community Bank to John A. Nichols and the Estate of John A. Nichols, 300 N Jefferson St., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Jeremy and Katie Appel to K&A Property Management LLC, 1310 200th St. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

Charles J. Turner to Trustee Jeffrey T. Turner and Turner Family Trust One, 3 parcels, in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

Turtle Lake Brett, Jeff, and Jesse Drexler to Jason Brown, 642 US Hwy 8, in the Village of Turtle Lake.

West Sweden

Estate of Dale R. Hutton and Deborah J. Hutton to Deborah J. Hutton, 3315 135th St., in the Town of West Sweden.

Deborah J. Hutton to Kristi L. Hutton, 3315 135th St., in the Town of West Sweden.

Betty and Michael Barr to Lucas Richard Anderson, 1 parcel, in the Town of West Sweden.

Estate of George W. Sornson to George Bendt Sornson, 1 parcel, in the Town of West Sweden.

Ann M. Helin to Head 2 Toe Revocable Living Trust, 3344 State Hwy 35 and 1 other parcel, in the Town of West Sweden.

Non-registration of vehicle

• Cody J. Abel, 29, Shafer, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $175.30.

• Kathleen M. Dickson, 63, Backus, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $175.30.

• Carly J. Kratky, 21, Blaine, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $175.30. Operate without a valid license

• Tyler J. Bolstad, 30, Milltown, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

• Mark A. Brown, 56, Clear Lake, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

Deven K. Dowd, 22, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

• Kevin F. Letourneau, 45, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

• Dwayne E. Roberson, 44, Minneapolis, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $200.50. Operate without valid license because expiration

• Connor D. Brown, 19, Osceola, pled no contest and was fined $162.70. Operating a motor vehicle without insurance

• Kyle R. Bottolfson, 34, Amery, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

BENNETT: My dog can’t read

FROM PAGE 9

didn’t matter. Suddenly my beeper on the receiver I wear around my neck went off. Deke was on another point, this time 165 yards away. It was off to the races again. I bought a pointer because I liked the idea of having a dog that would hold game until I arrived. Earlier in the season, birds aren’t educated to the game of hunting and they’ll hold better for a

HOROSCOPES

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Focus on collaboration this week, Aries. Teamwork leads to unexpected rewards if you are open to others’ ideas, so remain receptive to the input of teammates.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, when a project presents itself to you, stay grounded and run through all the components carefully. Employ the same strategy when going over financial opportunities.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, clear up any misunderstandings and express your thoughts openly with others this week. Communication is certainly key at this juncture in time.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

It is important that you take time for some self-care this week, Cancer. Your emotional well-being is just as important

CLUES ACROSS

1. Hand (Spanish)

5. Siskel

pointer. This time of year is when all of these birds had graduated from How to Escape Hunter and Dog University and earned their diplomas by surviving. Because Deke can’t read he crossed into private land where I couldn’t go because I didn’t have permission to hunt there. I crossed the fence and got out in the open on the land I could hunt when it all broke loose. About a dozen birds flew out of the woodlot into more

as your physical fitness. Reflect on some personal goals in this area.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you often excel in group settings, and social gatherings this week are a place where you can shine. Use all opportunities to network and connect with others.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

It is important to focus on your work-life balance right now, Virgo. Prioritize important tasks, but also make time for relaxation. Small changes to your routine can be ideal.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Embrace your artistic side this week, Libra. Consider a new hobby that will keep your mind busy. Social activities that involve creative pursuits also can bring inspiration and joy.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Allow home and family

land I couldn’t hunt. There were at least four roosters in that group. Three flew into the private land I couldn’t hunt but one big rooster sailed into the private land I had permission to hunt. To be continued...

Jim Bennett is an outdoorsman who lived and worked in the St. Croix valley and can be reached at jamesbennett24@gmail.com for comments.

to take center stage, Scorpio. Spend as much time as possible with loved ones and try to get to the root of any persistent, unresolved issues.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, this week focus on activities that afford a chance to learn and explore. You might want to take a class or try a new hobby. Curiosity can be exciting.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Financial matters may require some attention right now, Capricorn. Examine your budget and figure out if the new year requires some changes to how you’re managing money.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, new ideas may lead to some personal projects that inspire you. You might find that you’ll be quite busy on these self-imposed tasks for the next couple of weeks.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

This is a good time to focus attention inward, Pisces. Make time for reflection and even some meditation if that is something that interests you. The rewards will be worth it.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 5

January Jones, Actress (47)

JANUARY 6

Rowan Atkinson, Actor (70)

JANUARY 7

Robert Sheehan, Actor (37)

JANUARY 8

Cynthia Erivo, Actress (38)

JANUARY 9

Nina Dobrev, Actress (36)

JANUARY 10

Renée Rapp, Singer (25)

JANUARY 11

Mary J. Blige, Singer (54)

RECIPES

Slow-cooked beef stew makes an ideal cold weather comfort food

The term “comfort food” can be used in reference to a host of dishes. Some see Mom’s homecooking as the ultimate comfort food, while others may insist hearty dishes that fill the belly are the only true comfort foods. Regardless of one’s definition of comfort food, one characteristic many might agree about is that foods must provide more than mere sustenance to qualify for entry into this wide-ranging category. Beef stew certainly fits that criteria, as many feel nothing is more comforting on a cold winter day than a warm bowl of slow-cooked stew. As winter settles in, those looking for some slow-cooked comfort can try this recipe for “Crockpot Beef Stew With Potatoes and Peas” from Lines+Angles.

Crockpot Beef Stew With Potatoes and Peas

Makes 6 servings

2 pounds boneless stew beef

1 teaspoon coarse salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1⁄3 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped

2 celery ribs, rinsed, trimmed and sliced

2 cloves of garlic, peeled and pressed

2 cups baby carrots, sliced

6 small new potatoes, rinsed and cut into bitesized pieces

6 ounces tomato paste

4 cups beef broth

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon dried parsley

2 cups frozen peas

1. Rinse the beef under cold running water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, cut the beef into generous bite-size pieces.

2. Combine the salt, pepper and flour. Place the cubed beef in a large resealable plastic storage bag. Add the seasoned flour and shake to thoroughly coat the beef with flour.

3. Heat the oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the flour-coated beef and brown on all sides.

4. Place browned beef in the crock pot. Add onions, celery, garlic, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.

5. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 to 7 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas, cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

6. Ladle stew into individual serving bowls and serve.

Tip: Cooking time may vary depending on age and size of crockpot.

quick and easy. If you think you might have a story idea, please do reach out. My contact information is below. You are the reason this paper is here, and I invite you to continue being a large part of what content we publish every week. Feel free to reach out at any time. I always welcome your thoughts and opinions. You can reach me at 715-294-2314, or send me an email at editor@osceolasun.com

REPAIR: Volunteers encouraged to keep Osceola event going

their household products going for a longer period of time.

“I went to the event in Marine at the folk school there and met some wonderful people who actually sponsored Dare to Repair that Marine Mills Folk School put on,” said Metz. “Fixit-clinics are something I’ve been interested in quite a while, and I was only aware of them being offered down in the cities at a couple of the libraries. And because in Osceola we have the senior center and it is so close to the hardware store, which has everything, for a long time I wanted to have one in Osceola.

“So, when I found the one in Marine, I was pretty excited. And I talked to them about doing one in Osceola and I was originally just going to do it, but then they were kind of willing to sponsor it.”

“I am continually amazed at the generosity and skill of people in small towns,” said Brooksbank. “[Metz] wanted to bring this to the Village of Osceola and have this service available. You’re creating community. That’s obviously what she was trying to support. And that’s what the volunteers that we get in Marine are trying to do. That’s really the whole push behind the folk school is that supportive, community focused sharing of hands-on knowledge and then also learning skills.”

At Dare to Repair, volunteers with hands on experience fixing products are there to instruct attendees on how to repair them instead of throwing them away. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also gives them the knowledge and skill to apply what they learned the next time one of their products breaks down and fix it.

“You have to do problem solving,” said Brooksbank. “That’s why these volunteer things are so helpful. Because people have some suggestions for you, but they let you work on it. They’re not going to fix it themselves. The whole point is to is to get you involved in that hands-on learning.”

Although Dare to Repair has been thriving in Marine on St. Croix at the folk school since it started, there has been an ebb and flow of volunteers and attendees in Osceola. For Metz, Brooksbank and everyone else at the folk school, keeping the event going is something they hope will happen in 2025. To do that, they are asking for help; hoping that Osceola residents with the ability to teach others how to fix their various items will reach out, and that more residents who are thinking about tossing their products could instead come to the Osceola Senior Center and learn how to repair them.

“The attendance at the Osceola one has been pretty minimal

and the people that I need to help me to do like electronics and things like that just live further towards Stillwater and nobody seems to want to go up there,” said Metz. “So, we’re supposed to be having it on the third weekend of the month. But I recently called Cheryl at the Osceola Senior Center and told her I was not going to do it anymore because of low attendance and nobody to help me. I’m hoping that maybe this article might stir up some interest. I’d be willing to do it, but I need more help and more attendance.”

“We never say no to a volunteer,” said Brooksbank. “The focus for Osceola is trying to sustain this and keep it going. And this time of year when we’re all doing New Year’s resolutions and thinking about what we want to do for the year, it’s a good time to think about what you can do as a community volunteer.”

Dare to Repair is a free to attend, recurring event that takes place on the third Saturday of every month. But because more help is needed in Osceola to keep the event going, this month’s event will not be held at the Osceola Senior Center. Those who may be interested in volunteering in Osceola, or Marine on St. Croix can contact the Marine Mills Folk School at info@marinemillsfolkschool. org, or call 612-440-6295.

SCF GIRLS: Vee places second

FROM PAGE 10

Raygor added. He believes the experience against Minnesota schools will help the girls for the rest of the year.

“It was over 40 teams with some of the toughest girls in Minnesota represented,” Raygor concluded. “The girls continue to grow and progress. Many of our girls are still new to the sport and are still figuring out the basics. This tournament was leveled, which was great for our experienced girls and more beginners.”

MAUSTON GOLDEN INVITE

The Saints had four top three wrestlers in their weight classes at the Jan. 3 Invite.

Julianna Johnson won the 114-pound weight class, winning four matches.

“She lost early in the pool and then battled back to defeat the girl (Westby’s Marissa Klum) that beat her to win the tournament,” Raygor added. “Julianna is a pit bull with a lot of heart.”

Lauryn Vee took second at 126 pounds with four wins before losing to La Crosse Logan/Central’s Rachel Hang in the firstplace match. Her four wins were via two pins, a major

decision, and a decision. Nevaeh Nwachukwu was third at 145 pounds, losing to Mondovi/Eleva-Strum’s Layla Risler in the final before rebounding to defeat Spencer/Columbus Catholic/Granton’s Azariah Hoffman in the third-place match.

Leah Whatley also finished third at 120 pounds, recording two wins and a bye before losing to Wautoma/Wild Rose’s Cecilia Flores in the championship bracket. Whatley then pinned Rosholt’s Danika Moats to take third.

“She keeps learning more moves and is getting better with her strategy to close matches,” Raygor added.

Other Saints who placed included Piper Ray (107 pounds, 7th), Lily Kne (126, 10th), Hailey Dozois (126, 12th), Morgan Hooverman (132, 6th), Kylie Miller (145, 6th), Autumn Steffen (165, 6th), Marlie Aaron (165, 14th) and Larissa Chapman (165, 12th).

“Mauston runs a tough tournament every year with some of the best girls in the state,” Raygor concluded. “They use pools to determine their brackets. This tournament had no team component, but the girls showcased the community well.”

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Osceola ice fishing team competes in 300” Challenge

The Osceola High School Ice Fishing team kicked off their season on Saturday with the WIFA 300” Challenge. In this contest, teams registered their 10 best gamefish and 15 best panfish. The challenge was to accumulate over 300” of fish. Osceola finished the day with 396”. This has them currently in eighth place. They currently have the second best panfish stringer with 160”. The big fish for the day were Austin Koester with a 33” pike (left) and Tim Nissen with a 12” crappie (right).