Osceola, COM2 hope to continue E-recycling events
BY MATT ANDERSON EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM
After a successful first electronics recycling event, the Town of Osceola will likely continue future events in the coming years. The Osceola Town Board partnered with electronic recycling service COM2 Recycling Solutions to remove thousands of pounds of unused, broken, and outdated electronics and hopes to continue working with Osceola residents to remove even more electronics going forward.
During their Oct. 7 meeting, the Osceola Town Board reviewed and considered working with COM2 Recycling Solutions to plan the inaugural E-recycling event and voted unanimously to approve a date and time for the event. Setting the date for Nov. 9, COM2 Recycling Solution’s team made the five-hour drive to the Town of Osceola to meet with its residents and collect as many electronics as possible. Starting at 9 a.m., Town of Osceola residents flocked to the Town Hall, dropping off 6,217 pounds of defunct electronics to be recycled.
“COM2 was very organized during the recycling event,” said Town Chairman Dale Lindh. “The team that they sent out were very polite to the residents using this service. Many of our town residents asked when this event is happening again!”
According to COM2 Recycling
The Grinch hangs out at Light Up Osceola
It’s time to help Osceola PD Stuff the Squad
BY MATT ANDERSON EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM
The holiday season is all about giving, and the Osceola Police Department is encouraging residents to help them Stuff the Squad with food and other goods to be donated to the Osceola Open Cupboard this weekend. Like every year, Stuff the Squad gives back to the community while connecting Osceola residents with their local law enforcement in a positive light.
“For the first part of December here, usually after Thanksgiving, we have our giant Christmas box that we put out in front of our department,” said Osceola Police Chief Andrew Bach. “We try to let people know through social media that it’s going on, and if they want, they can drop some stuff off if they’re in the area. Then we usually pick one day, try to make it a weekend, and we try to bring out all of our squad cars, have the lights going and make a big show in our parking lot. Then we literally just stuff the back of our squad cars as much as we can, and then we make a train and go over to the food shelf and make a big delivery.”
The Osceola Open Cupboard has been operating since 1993, offering community members in need food, clothing and other resources ever since its founding. Stuff the Squad started in 2021 when the Osceola Police Department decided they wanted to help out the Open Cupboard. By opening the backs of their squad cars and stuffing them with as many items as possible,
Committee moves outdoor recreation plan to board
Public hearing yields two who had only good things to say
BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET
Following a public hearing on the adoption of Polk County’s outdoor recreation plan, the Public Works/Public Safety Committee’s consensus was
to move to on for consideration by the full county board at its upcoming December meeting.
There were only a couple of people who provided comment about the plan at the committee’s Dec. 3 meeting, both of whom were positive and supported eventual passage of the measure.
Parks and Trail Coordinator
Tony Nowak provided committee members with an overview of the plan, which was
last updated four years ago.
“So, the purpose of the outdoor recreation plan is as a guiding document for decision-making in the budget process on where to invest funds. So, what we really do is take a look at all of our outdoor recreation opportunities in the county and where we could use some improvements,” he said.
To update the newest version, Nowak said staff reviews
old plans and uses them as guides as to the planning process.
A public survey was also conducted, according to Nowak.
“So, we took all that information … looked at it, visited all of our parks, and then that gives us our auto recreation plan. We use that as a guiding document. It also makes us eligible to apply for state and federal grants for different
projects within our park properties,” he said. He also stressed that the recommendations within the plan are not mandatory.
“It doesn’t mean everything that we have in there, all our recommendations, are necessarily something that we need or have to do. They’re just that – they’re recommendations, they’re ideas and opportuni
SEE COUNTY, PAGE 2
SEE SQUAD, PAGE 2
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., 10:15 a.m. to 11 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 St-
CroixChaplaincy@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., 10:15 a.m. to 11 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.
THE OPEN CUPBOARD
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.
DECEMBER 13
Christmas concert
The St. Croix Valley Christian Community Choir will be performing a Christmas concert at 3 Arrows in St. Croix Falls at 7 p.m.
DECEMBER 14
Santa in town
Santa will be at the Dresser Community Center from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Free pancake breakfast, treat bags for kids and pictures with Santa. Everyone welcome.
DECEMBER 14-16
Gingerbread House contest
The ArtBarn in Osceola wll be having a Gingerbread House Contest from 1 to 6 p.m. Small admission at the door. Come see local artists’ creations and enjoy a s’more and hot chocolate.
DECEMBER 15
Christmas concert
The St. Croix Valley Christian Community Choir will be performing a Christmas concert at Balsam Lake Lutheran in Amery at 3 p.m.
DECEMBER 18
Live Nativity
A Live Nativity is planned at Peace Luth-
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 ORDER SETTING TIME TO HEAR PETITION FOR ADMINISTRATION AND DEADLINE FOR FILING CLAIMS
(Formal Administration) Case No. 24 PR 106 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Susan I. Carney
A Petition for Formal Administration was filed.
THE COURT FINDS:
ern Church, Dresser, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Christmas reading at 6:30 p.m. Soup, s’mores and bonfire planned. Bake Sale Valley Christin School, 933 248th St., Osceola, will be having a bake sale from 3:15 p.m. to 6 p.m.
DECEMBER 20 Coffee with a Cop Have Coffee with a Cop at Caribou Coffee in Osceola from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Come and ask Osceola police questions or talk about whatever you want.
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 1 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.
ed if there is no objection.
2. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is March 7, 2025.
3. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500.
4. Heirship will be determined at the hearing on petition for final judgment.
5. Publication of this notice is notice to any persons whose names or addresses are unknown.
Wednesday, December 18 Soup, S’mores & Bonfire
• 6 - 7 pm Live Animals & Characters • 6:30 pm Christmas Reading & Hymns
PUBLIC NOTICES
STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY
PUBLICATION SUMMONS
Case No: 24-CV-000283
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN CREDIT UNION
8033 Excelsior Dr. Madison, WI 53717
Plaintiff, v. TAYLOR P. SPRINGER
800 200th St. Dresser, WI 54009
Defendant THE STATE OF WISCONSIN
To each person named above as a defendant: You are hereby notified that the plaintiff named above has filed a lawsuit or other legal action against you. The complaint, which is also served on you, states the nature and basis of the legal action.
If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715-4859238 prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.
The decedent, with date of birth January 22, 1943, and date of death, March 6, 2024, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 343 E. McKenney Street, St. Croix Falls, WI 54020.
THE COURT ORDERS:
1. The Petition be heard at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Courtroom 3, before Circuit Court Judge/Circuit Court Commissioner James Krupa on January 3, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. You do not need to appear unless you object. The petition may be grant-
James A. Krupa Court Commissioner Nov. 21, 2024
Ronald L. Siler Williamson & Siler, S.C. 201 S. Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI 54017 715-246-6806 Bar #1022083 17-19Sc WNAXLP
Within 40 days after December 4, 2024, you must respond with a written answer, as that term is used in Chapter 802 of the Wisconsin Statutes, to the complaint. The Court may reject or disregard an answer that does not follow the requirements of the statutes. The answer must be sent or delivered to the Court, whose address is 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, Wisconsin 54810, and to the plaintiff’s attorney, whose
address is 735 N. Water Street, Suite 205, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202. You may have an attorney help or represent you. If you do not provide a proper answer within 40 days, the Court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the complaint, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the complaint. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property. We are attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Dated this 22nd day of November, 2024.
&
OPINION
www.osceolasun.com
Impactful spending
What do you want for Christmas?
It’s the age-old question asked a bit more often than “What do you want for dinner?”
I always wanted to start a restaurant called “I Don’t Know” or “I Don’t Care” but I already work in a high stress job, so I don’t want to press my luck with food safety.
Publisher Tom Stangl
The next two weeks are among the busiest of the year for shopping, as people try to get the “perfect” gift for the people they care about. Yes, it’s a stressful time all around.
But what would you think if where you spent your money could matter as much (or maybe more) than what you spent your money on?
In our community and neighboring communities, businesses of all types and sizes are working to survive. Sometimes, they employ people besides their family members and other times; they are one-man (or woman) bands just trying to make their living.
This fall, we ran our “Best of” contest where you selected the best examples of stores, professionals and products. Many of these firms are small and working hard to make their mark.
I’d like to suggest this when you make your holiday purchases. It’s in our collective best interest to support businesses in our community.
The people are our friends and neighbors; they are the ones who will go the extra mile to make sure things are made right when they invariably and inevitably go wrong. They pay taxes to support our schools and communities. The people who have storefronts have created a reason for people to come to town.
They are the ultimate risk-takers and usually the last to take credit for their successes. By employing others, they are investing their resources in the community. The payroll of their business can ripple through the local economy as much as seven times before leaving via someone else’s bank account. This spending is impactful. The ripple effect of the spending can create a healthier community, a larger tax base that can lessen the load of everyone else. It may sound like an elaborate pyramid scheme, but I can assure you that it is not. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The money you invest in shopping locally can come back to you in the most unexpected ways.
I know what you’re thinking: what about the latest, greatest thingamabob that I have to get online or I will be a failure as a friend/sibling/parent/ spouse? I hear you. You may need to do what you need to do for that purchase. But I would counter, that there are many things so unique that you can get locally that would leave a lasting impression on the recipient.
If you are totally flummoxed, there’s always gift certificates to eating and dining places and professional services that can be purchased. Need some help deciding where to turn? Check out the Best Of Winners section we published in October. And no, a gift certificate is not a bad gift. It means you want the person to make their own choice as to what’s right for them.
All I ask is that you take the time to take a look around our community and see what you could afford for an investment in your own future. Give the local stores a look, I think you might very well be pleasantly surprised at what you might find. 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
WEditor
ell, my winning streak has come to an end. If you regularly read my column, you may have seen me write about fishing with my dad and noted, proudly, I might add, that I couldn’t remember the last time I got “skunked” while fishing. Alas, all things come to an end, and my first outing on the ice broke my successful run.
Matt Anderson
I admit it hurt my pride. I stated in my previous column that mentioning my winning streak was not to boast but instead to show how seriously I take fishing. It’s my passion. I put everything into it, and it’s the only thing I can confidently say I’m really good at.
But they call it “fishing,” not “catching,” for a reason. At some point, I knew the skunk would eventually catch up to me. And yes, it stinks.
But isn’t this what happens in
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Wednesday. One year subscription in Polk County is available for $52, two years is
755-3316, or fax at (715) 7553314. To subscribe: office@osceolasun.com The Sun is mailed to the homes of subscribers for delivery every
life? Don’t we all hit a wall at some point?
The reality is we’re imperfect, and life isn’t always fair. We all have things we love to do, passions we chase, careers we pursue, and with a little hard work and dedication, we often find ourselves in times of success. But we’d be fooling ourselves to pretend a valley isn’t waiting for us after summiting the peak. It might sound silly, but when I walked back to my truck after striking out, I also felt some relief. For one, the pressure to keep my winning streak had lifted. Every time I went out on the water, I needed to “get the skunk out of the boat.” I suppose it was a fun challenge, but I found myself with some weight on my back every time I went fishing.
And another reason I felt relief is because I was thrust back into the “real world.” From people fishing for the first time to professional anglers at the highest level, all of us catch fish some days, and other days go home without setting the hook a single time. Perhaps I started developing a
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complex, but I might have started to believe the “skunk” would never catch up to me. So, why was getting skunked a positive thing?
Without the constant pressure I was putting on myself, I realized, probably for a while now, that I wasn’t fully enjoying the process. Hitting the water was a means to an end. I had to catch fish. My winning streak depended on it. I had forgotten why we anglers do what we do. Sure, we fish because we want to catch fish. What angler doesn’t? But we do it because we love the sport of fishing as a whole. The ups, the downs, the challenges, the triumphs - all of it.
By maintaining my successful run of fishing trips and putting all that pressure on myself to keep it going, I was missing the full enjoyment of the sport I love. Sure, I always want to catch fish, but I go fishing to be present, leave the stresses of the world on the shore, and enjoy mother nature. In reality, catching fish is just the icing
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Early ice covers unsafe, DNR warns
No ice is safe ice
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges the public to practice early-winter ice safety on all of Wisconsin’s waterbodies and remember that no ice is safe ice.
The temperature swings that mark the final weeks of every year can create ice covers.
“After we have the first cold nights, we start to see the early ice. It may look solid to the naked eye, but it’s not,” said Lt. Jacob Holsclaw, DNR Off-Highway Vehicle Administrator. “There can be, and often are, cracks and changes in the ice thickness that you will not see.”
The ice covers hide the currents, debris and underground springs still feeding lakes and rivers. “These factors and more are why no ice is ever considered safe – no matter the month,”
Tuna time
Hosclaw said. The DNR does not monitor ice conditions, but they are monitored locally. Local fishing clubs, outfitters and bait shops are the best sources for local current ice conditions.
Conditions as varied as waters If the outing does involve travel over a waterbody, remember every waterbody has its own characteristics. Check if the lake has inlets, outlets or narrows, is spring-fed or has currents, which can thin the ice.
Some smaller lakes can have aerators that are run throughout the winter either covering a large area towards the center of the lake or may have smaller aerators placed by private property landowners adjacent to their shore and/or piers.
Equally as important
“He’s on vigil,” my husband, Peter, said, watching our cat, Felix.
Peter, who never had a cat before Felix, has become the resident cat expert. Of course, he has a sample size of one, so all his generalizations about cats are based on Felix.
I had quite a few cats before Felix, so I feel in a better position to say what kind of cat Felix is. Felix is a lively cat—he is the most playful adult cat I’ve ever had. He is not a lap cat and does not like to be carried around. And he is a fussy eater. The first two make sense, since he spent his early life on the streets. The fussy eating is just Felix. He seems to think that, since he was scooped up off the streets into the lap of luxury (not the literal lap, you understand, because laps are much too confining), he deserves nothing but the best.
Felix is not crazy about his dry food—which is a very good brand and is nutritionally complete. He will not eat leftover fish skin or
• Ceramic Crowns (1 day crowns)
• Oral Surgery (implants)
is to stay alert for pressure ridges or ice heaves. These can be dangerous due to thin ice and open water and often are created, move or grow with changes in temperatures and high winds. Here are more safety tips:
• Carry a cell phone, and let people know where you are going and when you’ll return.
• Wear proper clothing and equipment, including a personal flotation device to help you stay afloat and to help slow body heat loss.
• Take an extra pair of mittens or gloves so your hands can remain dry and warm.
• Wear creepers attached to boots to prevent slippinge.
• Carry a spud bar to check the ice while walking to new areas.
• Carry a couple of spikes and a length of light rope in an easily
cheese. He’ll eat the occasional garbanzo bean, but it must be warm. I don’t know how a cat with such particular tastes survived on the streets. But the one thing Felix likes is tuna, and he gets tuna every day. He gets tuna at promptly 8:30 p.m. because that has been declared by Peter as Tuna Time. So Felix is on vigil every night from around a quarter to 8 until exactly 8:30. The anticipation before Tuna Time is the high point of his day. (I meant the high point of Felix’s day, but it may well be the high point of Peter’s day as well.)
Shortly before 8, Felix finds a spot where he can watch Peter—a place where Peter could not possibly escape without passing him. He stares at Peter. As the hour approaches, Felix slowly inches closer to Peter. He watches more and more intently. Every time Peter glances up, there are a pair of golden green eyes fixated on him. Peter is master of Tuna Time, and every move he makes is observed by Felix.
I’m not sure how our lives became so ruled by this ritual that did not exist before we adopted Felix. Ignoring Tuna Time would be like skipping a sunrise or forgetting my birthday or putting on my shoes before my socks. It’s
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accessible pocket to help pull yourself out of the ice.
• Do not travel in unfamiliar areas.
• Have a plan in place noting where you will be and when you plan to return. Along with leaving a written note of your plans, have a charged cell phone.
If the worst happens and you happen to fall in, here’s what to do:
• Carry a couple of hand-held spikes and a length of light rope in an easily accessible pocket or inside your sleeves to help pull yourself – or others – out of the ice.
• If you fall in, remain as calm as possible and while attempting to assist yourself out of the water, call for help as soon as you can. Anyone who attempts to rescue you also is recommended to use a rope or something similar to avoid falling through as well.
a thing that can’t even be imagined. When we go out to eat, Peter looks at his watch, “45 minutes until Tuna Time!” he says, and we know we better be heading home.
At about 8:27, Peter takes a deep breath. Felix hears the sharp intake of breath and freezes.
“And…” Peter’s voice rises to a crescendo, “… it’s TUNA TIME!”
Felix races to the kitchen so fast his paws spin in place for a moment before he gains traction. He purrs so loudly I can hear him from the next room, as Peter assures him this is the most tuna he has ever received. (It is exactly the same amount every night.)
Felix eats the tuna in an instant. And then he relaxes for the evening. The main event is over. When he was younger, he would wail in apparent grief that the best moment of the day was over so soon. But he has come to understand that, like every good thing, Tuna Time must come to an end. And when it does, all there is to do is wait for another day when Tuna Time will come again.
Till next time,
Carrie
To see photos, check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.
YEARS AGO
20 years ago Dec. 8, 2004
• Equipment operator constructionman Michael Beck was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal while serving with the Navy Support Activity, Bahrain.
• Character of the Month award winners at St. Croix Falls High School were Mike Kingery, Marissa Williamson, Pat Borreson, Rita Lystrom, David Smith, Angie Meyer, Alan Snyder and Jackie Libis.
• Mike McMartin retired from the Osceola High School head football coaching post after 15 years.
• The Osceola girls basketball team outscored New Richmond, 32-5, the second half and won, 61-28, in the home opener.
30 years ago
Dec. 7, 1994
• Osceola Middle School hosted a Math Meet for sixth graders. Osceola won the meet. Students competing were Ami Andersen, Charlie Beck, Marc Beckmann, Cassie Bueckers, Lyndsay Johnson, Nate Rugroden, Belinda Rutledge and Kyle Thompson.
• Osceola’s Dean 10 Pack 131 Cub Scouts tours the Osceola police station.
• Returning letter winners to the Osceola boys basketball team were Ben Olson, Matt Haase, Dion Sauve, Chad Palmsteen and Dan Grimsrud.
• The Osceola Chieftainettes placed first in two categories: Division 2 Pom and Prop at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire Clinic and competition.
• Osceola second graders entertained local nursing home residents the day before Thanksgiving.
• Fifth graders competing in the Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl were Megan Fillipi, Nicole Abrahamson, Hannah Hafdahl, Shelby Peterson, Jamie Thompson, Heidi Evenson,
GOVERNMENT
Tina Roberts, Neil Kaul, Chris Lones and Joe Verhasselt.
• Osceola High School wrestling returning letter winners were Jon Branum, Joe Kehl, Gene McCurdy, Rick Demulling, Dave Tiedeman, Jeremy Steffen, Nate Demulling, John Bjornstad, Tim Johnson and Bruce Foss.
• The Bank of Somerset opened for business in Osceola.
40 years ago Dec. 11, 1984
• Named to the All Conference football team from osceola were Kevin Ulisnik, Ron Swanson, Ted Bents, Todd Ellingson and Brad Momchilovich and from St. Croix Falls was Mark Johnson.
• Named to the All Conference volleyball team from osceola was Lynne Jewell and from St. Croix Falls was Tammy Christensen.
• On Nov. 17 the Osceola Chieftainettes placed second in the Class B Pom Pon competition. Peggy Rydeen was named Advisor of the Year.
• Bill Thiel participated in the Farmers Fitness Run in Des Moines, Iowa. He ran the five mile course in 37 minutes and 34 seconds.
• Emma Dehmer celebrated her 100th birthday on Dec. 7.
• Suzette Swanson of Osceola was among those who graduated from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls with a degree in secondary education.
• The Osceola High School girls basketball team beat Luck, 41-25. Colleen Greene scored 19 points.
• The Osceola High School boys basketball team traveled to South St. Paul and poured on 20 points in the third quarter to win, 66-60. Brad Momchilovich, Todd Ellingson and Ted Bents each scored 16 points.
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
Thomas Hauge
Jordan Dittberner
Taylor Lundquist
Reduce, reuse and recycle waste this holiday season
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is offering tips to help families save money, reduce waste and keep recycling and trash workers safe during upcoming holidays.
“We know recycling can be confusing,” said Jennifer Semrau, DNR waste reduction and diversion coordinator.
“But there are some basic tips people can use to make tackling holiday waste less overwhelming. Knowing the right thing to do with things like batteries and light strings can prevent damage to recycling facilities and keep workers safe.”
What Should Go In Your Recycling Bin
Many items can be recycled anywhere in Wisconsin. These items, which the state bans from landfills, include:
• Cardboard – Flatten boxes before putting them in carts or bins so that recycling equipment can handle them properly
• Newspaper
• Magazines
• Office paper
• Plastic #1 and #2 containers
• Aluminum cans
• Steel (tin) cans
• Glass bottles and jars
Be sure containers are empty of liquids and excess gunk and give them a quick rinse. They don’t need to be spotless, but they should be mostly clean. Don’t crush or flatten cans or bottles going into a curbside recycling cart or container – this makes it harder for equipment at recycling facilities to recognize and properly sort things like aluminum cans.
Some recycling programs accept wrapping
paper that can be torn and doesn’t have any glitter, foil, ribbons or other adornments, but others don’t accept any wrapping paper because of the risk of contamination from non-recyclable coatings and decorations. Most communities accept junk mail and other mixed paper, such as cereal boxes.
Check locally for a complete list of what your program accepts, and don’t rely on packaging labels. Keep in mind that what you can recycle at a relative’s home may be different than what you can recycle at your own.
What should not go In your recycling bin
Some items can cause serious problems at recycling facilities that aren’t designed to handle them, including a risk of fire and worker injury. Many of these can be recycled at drop-off sites but should not go in curbside recycling bins or carts. These include:
• Holiday light strings, cords and other “tanglers.” At modern recycling facilities, these wrap around equipment, meaning a facility has to be shut down for workers to cut the material loose. Some retailers, electronics recyclers and communities offer seasonal recycling programs for light strings. If that’s not an option, put broken lights in the trash.
• Plastic bags, plastic film and wrap. These also get tangled in recycling equipment. In addition, bagged recyclables cause problems because workers can’t be sure what’s inside, meaning recyclables in
“...This is the solstice, the still point of the sun, its cusp and midnight, the year’s threshold and unlocking, where the past lets go and becomes the future; ~ Margaret Atwood, contemporary Canadian author
Celebrate the Winter Solstice and the Season of Light. Happy Winter Solstice! December 21 marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere—a turning point that brings hope as days gradually grow longer. The solstice occurs thanks to the Earth’s tilt, which gives us our seasons. For many, this day is a symbolic shift toward brighter moments ahead.
Throughout history, the winter solstice has been a time of feasting, reflection, and celebration in cultures around the world. Many traditions honor rebirth and renewal during this period; and modern holidays like Christmas carry similar themes, blending spiritual and secular traditions into family-centered, joyfilled festivities. Holiday traditions bring us together, warming our hearts and reminding us to be grateful. Whether you light candles, enjoy the glow of holiday lights, or share meals with loved ones, this is a time to embrace connection and gratitude. So, slip into cozy pajamas, sip hot cocoa topped with marshmallows, and call your family and friends. Share stories, laughter, and love.
Your library is here to enrich the season. Explore books about the
solstice, winter holidays, and the many cultural celebrations that brighten this time of year. Looking for festive recipes, craft ideas, or stories to share? Your librarian can help you find the perfect resources to make the season special.
Check our website or give us a call for holiday hours, and stop by to discover new ways to celebrate and learn this winter. Please be sure to check your library’s winter holiday closure dates.
Happy Solstice and happy holidays from your library staff!
“In the winter she curls up around a good book and dreams away the cold.” ~ Ben Aaronovitch, contemporary English author and screen writer
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
POLK COUNTY LAND TRANSFERS
St. Croix Falls
David and Gloria Hicks Revocable Trust and Trustees David and Gloria Hicks to Branch Out Holdings LLC and
Member Kevin Palmer, 520 S Washington St., in the City of St. Croix Falls.
Sterling Orlow A. Widvey to
NOTICE OF SPRING ELECTION
NOTICE
Notice of the scheduled date of the caucus will be given at
five days before the caucus.
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 bit of music, and play all in one stop before lunch and naptime. Preschool -Kindergarten will most benefit.
Check our website, Facebook, or call for more information on programming.
Family Holiday Story Time: Dec. 14 at10:30 a.m.at the library. Come after seeing Santa at Dresser Community Center.
Closed: Dec. 24-26 & Dec. 31.
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.
Check our website, Face Book, or call for more information on programming.
Guest storytime, Dec.
Elizabeth and Mark Stensgard, 2789 248th Ave., in the Town of Sterling.
Affiant Peter Johnson and Steven R. Warndahl to Steven Warndahl Living Trust, one Parcel, in the Town of Sterling.
Jill Armstrong and Jeff Bohn to Joseph and Joshua Bohn, 2631 250th Ave., and five other Parcels, in the Town of Sterling.
David and Lowell Iverson and Brandon Ward to David and Lowell Iverson, 2910 Sterling Dr., in the Town of Sterling. Estate of Woodrow
11 at 10:15 a.m.
Writing for Calm with Kathleen Melin, Tuesday, December 17 @ 6 pm-8 pm. Bring an item or photo of your item to prompt your writing. Come have fun, explore gratitude, and eat cookies.
Special preschool Holiday Yoga, Wednesday, December 18 @ 10:15 Closed: Dec. 24-26 & Dec. 31.
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.
WMPL Book Discussion meets Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. at the library. Get 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. Closed: Dec. 24-25 & Dec. 31-Jan. 1.
J. Fangmeier to Sarah Fangmeier, two Parcels, in the Town of Sterling. WI DNR to Dale, Terry, Trent and Troy Bergstrom, one Parcel, in the Town of Sterling. West Sweden
WI DNR to Davis Family Trust, 3390 165th St. County Rd. W, and three other Parcels, in the Town of West Sweden.
WI DNR to Balsam Land LLC, two Parcels, in the Town of West Sweden.
WI DNR to Erin and George Hansford, two Parcels, in the Town of West Sweden.
Vanessa Karen Chapman
Vanessa Karen Chapman died Dec. 4, 2024, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn. She was 53.
Vanessa was born May 31, 1971, in Osceola to parents Albert Willey and Mary (Linnell) Miller.
Vanessa was married to James Chapman on April 16, 2006. She and Jim loved spending time outdoors together: camping, fishing, snowmobiling, ATVing, and in her earlier years, motorcycling. When she wasn’t outdoors, she enjoyed knitting, watching movies, and spending time with her family and her dogs.
Vanessa was preceded in death by her parents; brother James Willey; and father and mother-in-law, Harland and Jean Chapman.
She is survived by her husband James Chapman; children, Austin (Kyrsten) Doriott and Miranda (Tyler) Newville; sister, Carol (Tim) Mallin; brother, Wayne (Kristy) Willey; stepfather, Tom Miller; sisters-in-law, Mary (Dan) Brockman and Sue (Jason) Schroeder; her beloved dogs, Adrian and Jimbo; and many nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends.
Celebration of Life will be Dec. 13 at 6 p.m. at Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola. Visitation two hours prior.
Arrangements with Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola. Condolences can be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com.
ANDERSON: Skunks
PAGE 4
on the cake. There is so much more to my passion than the end result.
Whether it’s your passion, career, or anything else, know that the valley is coming. The winning streak will come to an end. But by realizing that, you should also know how important it is to enjoy the process. You can’t live life only waiting for the results. If you do, you’ll rob yourself of the full joy of doing what you love.
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
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
Marvin Harold Woodworth
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
On Dec. 6, 2024, Marvin Harold Woodworth left us to be with the Lord our Savior. He was 84. Born Oct. 1, 1940, in Fairview, Mont., to Harold and Elsie Woodworth, he graduated from Fairview High School where he loved to play football and basketball. He served four years in the Montana National Guard. He attended University of Montana North at Havre, where he graduated with a degree in drafting. In his career, he proudly earned four awards for the homes he drew and was honored in the “Log Home Living” magazine for a home built in Montana’s Glacier National Park.
In 1965, he moved to St. Paul, Minn., working for Lampert’s Lumber. He then worked for EBCO in Hopkins, Minn., retiring from there after 35 years of being sales manager. He met and married Joan (Thompson) in 1969, then bought a home in Osceola, Wis., in 1975, where they raised their children.
For 18 years, Marvin had been involved in and loved Thursday night “Jail Ministry” in Polk and Chisago counties. He loved camping, ministering to all people, and watching the village of Osceola’s
POLK COUNTY COURT NEWS
Operating a motor vehicle without proof of insurance
• Patrick J. Kane, 64, Covina, CA, pled no contest and was fined $10.
• Makayla M. Larson, 28, Grantsburg, pled no contest and was fined $10.
• Brianne N. Lathe, 28, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $10.
• Catherine R. Nelson, 36, Lindstrom, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $10.
• Amanda D. Patterson, 34, Comstock, pled no contest and was fined $10.
• Kevin E. Robinson,
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
sports teams. Marv and Joan were able to travel with friends on many trips in the US, Canada, and Mexico. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Woodworth and Elsie (Martin) Putnam; step-father Ervin Putnam; sisters, Myrna and Ethelyn; and grandson, Alex Woodworth.
Left to mourn him is his wife of 55 years, Joan; daughter Shelly (Tadd) Mannes; sons, Steven, Alan (Tamyra), John (Kim), and Michael; grandchildren, Sarah, Jordan, Nicole, Amber, Nicolas, Saron, Westly, Hayden, and Katherine; seven great-grandchildren; brother, Louis (Quinda); sister Marlys; stepbrothers, Jack (Dixie), and Larry (Linda); other extended family, and many, many friends.
His life will be remembered and our Love for Him will continue. Until that day we will see him again in the presence of God.
Family would like to specially thank the hospital staff and emergency responders at Osceola Medical Center for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, family would like memorials donated to Osceola Area Ambulance Service.
Memorial services for Marvin will be Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. at Alliance Church of the Valley in St. Croix Falls. Visitation one hour prior. Evening visitation will be Dec. 20 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola
. Arrangements with Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola. Condolences can be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com
If you would like to be
call
33, Dresser, pled no contest and was fined $10. Operating while revoked
• Tyler J. Hill, 25, Bruce, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.
• Cameron M. Watkins, 26, Brooklyn Park, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $200.50. Operating while suspended
• Cody W. Meyer, 35, Clayton, pled no contest and was fined $200.50. Possess open intoxicants in motor vehicle- driver
• Joshua L. Carlson, 42, Taylors Falls, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $263. Possession of marijuana
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
• Joshua A. Frazee, 46, Frederic, pled no contest and was fined $235. Possession of THC
• Jim R. Callicoat, 37, St. Croix Falls, the charge was dismissed on prosecutor’s motion.
• Darel D. Debrobander, 25, Mounds View, Minn., pled guilty and was fined $275.
• Darren R. Eagleman, 26, Cumberland, pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Patrick B. Kirby, 47, Effie, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Troy O. Olson, 49, Lindstrom, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Hunter C. Schmidt, 26, Frederic, pled guilty and was fined $267.50.
• Elisha A. Simmons, 35, Elsmere, KY, pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Shania L. Smith, 25, Belle Plaine, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Autumn L. Sonnenberg, 33, Luck, pled no contest and was fined $368.
• Justin R. Knowlton, 42, Clear Lake, pled no contest and the charge was dismissed on prosecutor’s motion.
ST. ANNE PARISH 139 Church Hill Road Somerset, WI 54025 715-247-3310 Rev. Joseph Madanu
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
2024 St. Croix Valley CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION!
Customers will shop at participating merchants businesses and get their Celebration Card stamped for every dollar they spend. When their card is completely full, they may get another and leave completed cards at the last business or bring it to The Sun office.
• Abrahamson Nursery - St. Croix Falls
• Abrahamson Nursery - Scandia
• Apothecary’s Daughter - Scandia
• Baribeau Implement - St. Croix Falls
• Bill’s Ace Hardware - Osceola
• Bill’s Auto Body - Forest Lake
• Brother’s Country Mart - Osceola
• Cascade BP - Osceola
• The Chocolate Gnome - Osceola
• Country Messenger(Sun office) - Osceola
• Dick’s Fresh Market - Osceola
• Dresser Food & Liquor - Osceola • Federated Co-Op - Osceola • Marine General Store - Marine on St. Croix • Osceola Auto Body - Osceola • Osceola Auto Sales - Osceola • Osceola Cleaners - Osceola
Osceola Lanes - Osceola
• PY’s Saloon & Grill - Osceola
• Rustic Roots Winery - Scandia
Card Front Back side of card
• Scott’s Tire - East Farmington
• Studio A Salon & Spa - Osceola
• The Sun - Osceola
• Valley Spirits - Osceola
• Village Pizzeria - Dresser
• Woodhill Bar & Grill - Osceola
*No purchase necessary. Limit 1 stamp per day per business.
You have until December 20 to complete your cards. Additional cards will be available at The Sun/Country Messenger office or at the participating businesses. The winner will be announced in the December 25 Edition of The Sun/Country Messenger. If you’re the winner, spend your Christmas Cash at any of the participating businesses. It’s that EASY!
Celebration Card inserted in this Edition of The Sun & Country Messenger
Osceola girls struggle to find rhythm in two road games
The Osceola girls basketball team faced a challenging week on the court, dropping backto-back games against St. Croix Central Dec. 3 and Clear Lake Dec. 6. Despite their best efforts, the Chieftains struggled with offensive consistency, leaving their record at 0-2 in the Middle Border Conference and 1-3 overall.
ST. CROIX CENTRAL 54, OSCEOLA 37
The Panthers shot 45.7 percent from the field overall in defeating Osceola.
St. Croix Central’s balanced offense proved challenging to contain, with Sophie Hook leading all scorers with 16 points and Addison Kofal adding 13. The Panthers also dominated the boards, securing 28 rebounds to Osceola’s 18 and points in the paint (38-12).
Osceola’s offensive attack was spearheaded by Izzy Ellefson,
who finished with nine points and nine rebounds.
“She was very tough defensively against (Elsah) Rubis,” OHS coach Mike Haase said.
Maddie Newton tallied eight points, including one of only two three-pointers made by the team. Osceola shot 29.3 percent from the field overall, including 2-for-15 from threepoint range.
However, the Chieftains plagued the game with turnovers. They gave up the ball 20 times, allowing the Panthers to capitalize.
CLEAR
LAKE 40, OSCEOLA 27
The Chieftains had 19 steals to Clear Lake’s six and committed 17 fewer turnovers than the Warriors in the Dec. 6 game.
The problem for OHS was shot 7-for-45 from the field (15.6 percent), which resulted in the 13-point defeat.
“There were two sides to the coin in the game,” Haase added. We committed only 11 turnovers and came up with 19 steals. Most nights, I would like our chances with those types of numbers. We must shoot a higher percentage to keep ourselves in the game.”
Clear Lake finished at 41.7 percent from the field overall. The Warriors also outrebounded Osceola by 22, including a 31-8 advantage for defensive rebounds.
Alissa Burbach poured in a game-high 12 points for Clear Lake, including 11 rebounds. Kaylynn Kurtz scored eight points, along with seven rebounds and four assists. Nora Buhr posted three steals.
Josie Mork led OHS with eight points and six steals. Maddie Newton contributed six points. Ayla Krenz finished with five rebounds.
Saints girls basketball off to a challenging start
The St. Croix Falls girls basketball team opened its 2024-25 season with two tough conference matchups, falling to Cameron Dec. 3 and Northwestern Dec. 6.
CAMERON 85, ST. CROIX FALLS 37
“Cameron is an excellent team this season,” SCF coach Angie Maternowsky said, and the team showed it against the Saints.
The Comets raced to a 53-17 halftime lead, leveraging sharp shooting and tight defensive play.
“It was our first game of the season,” Maternowsky continued.
“Amber Bateman did a
great job starting us on offense.”
Catherine Williams led the Saints with 13 points, including two three-pointers, and pulled down six rebounds. Bateman added seven points, and Olivia Shimon contributed four points and a team-high four assists.
Turnovers plagued the Saints—finishing with 39 as a team.
“We need to take care of the ball,” Maternowsky said. “Way too many unforced turnovers.”
NORTHWESTERN 73, ST. CROIX FALLS 32
Returning home for their second game, the
Saints faced another formidable opponent in Northwestern.
Abby Johnson recorded 24 points for Northwestern, including 20 rebounds, five steals, and four assists. Claire Nielcen posted 13 points, while Genna Kreuser and Jillian Kunert finished with 11 points each. Ashlyn Sutherland dished out six assists and finished with seven steals.
“We had a hard time taking quality shots,” Maternowsky said. Olivia Shimon led the Saints with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Amber
Somerset defeats Monona Grove thanks to Thiel’s power-play goal
BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM
Broden Thiel’s power-play goal 50 seconds into the third period lifted the Somerset boys hockey team to a 2-1 victory over Monona Grove Dec. 7
OREGON
4, SOMERSET 0
Serving Coffee, Cookies & Cider at all bank locations Stop in to pick up a calendar and gift
Anonymous Santa Dona�ons accepted at Chisago Lakes loca�on only Document shredding provided by Shred-It, Scandia loca�on only
Thiel scored the goal thanks to Devin Richardson assisting. The Spartans scored the game’s first goal 35 seconds into the second period, thanks to Breck Richardson, with Layne Pinska and Devin Richardson assisting. Monona Grove tied it at 11:45 with Drew Larson scoring and Myles Bible assisting.
The Spartans outshot the Silver Eagles 41-30. Somerset finished 1-for-5 on the power play, while Monona Grove went 0-for-4.
The Panthers scored two short-handed goals during its Dec. 6 victory. Owen Tauschek tallied the first goal 33 seconds into the second period on a power play thanks to Dawson Peterson and Ethan Disch assisting. Three minutes later, Jack Clunn registered the first shorthand goal. At 14:55 of the third period, Dawson Peterson made the score 3-0 on an even strength empty netter with Clunn assisting. Sherven added the final goal with eight seconds left with the second short-handed goal on an empty netter.
Somerset went 0-for-5 on the power play, while Oregon was 1-for-5. The Panthers finished with 37 saves on goal. Carson Belisle added 33 saves.
BALDWIN-WOODVILLE 3, SOMERSET 2 (OT)
Drew Buhr’s short-handed goal at 4:13 of the second overtime gave the Hawks the conference opening victory for both teams on Dec. 3. Somerset dominated shots on goal, finishing with 42 to B-W’s 14. Micaiah Schuld started the scoring at 3:56 of the first period, with Ryland Lathe and Vincent Henton assisting. The Hawks grabbed the lead after the second period, scoring twice.
Josh Albert tied the game at two at 1:24 of the third period, with Marshall Haukom and Wyatt Olson assisting. Carson Belisle finished with 11 saves. The Spartans went 0-for-3 on the power play.
•Santa will b e in Marine and Scandia
Carson Belisle registered 29 saves to earn the win.
The Spartans are now 0-1 in the conference and 3-2 overall.
& his ponies will be at the Chisago Lakes loca � on from 4:00 pm to 6:00 p m
Tyler Olson saw positives in his Osceola boys’ basketball team despite its 63-43 loss to New Richmond in the season opener on Dec. 2.
&
“Although the scoreboard had us at a 20-point loss in our minds, the game played much closer than that, and we walked away encouraged by many of the things we did,” he said.
“We played right with New Richmond for about two-thirds of the game until things opened up on us a bit.”
Aiden Eckert led all scorers with 17 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Nick Stellrecht posted 15 points and six rebounds. Jack Charbonneau earned a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.
The Tigers outrebounded Osceola by nine and had seven more steals than the Chieftains.
Hunter Bradway stood out for the Chieftains, dropping a team-high 16 points, including three three-pointers, while collecting seven rebounds. Caleb Irlbeck added nine
Saints prevail over Unity in opener
Caden Folkestad scored a game-high 19 points for the St. Croix Falls boys’ basketball team, which defeated Unity 58-54 on Dec. 3.
“The game was very physical on both ends of the court, and both teams worked extremely hard on the defensive end,” SCF coach Chad Hall said. “Johnny Johnson had a key defensive stand that jump-started our defense, and Caden Folkestad had a steal and dunk to punctuate our late game run.”
Anders Waterworth showcased his versatility with 17 points, including four three-pointers,
and six rebounds. Elliot Wilson contributed nine points and dished out three assists, helping the Panthers hold off Unity’s physical defense.
Unity’s Sam Majeske and Isaiah Fugate each tallied 16 points. St. Croix Falls capitalized on Unity’s 21 turnovers, with 13 being the Saints’ steals. The Saints were 6-for-21 from three-point range while Unity went 2-for-15.
CAMERON 58, ST. CROIX FALLS 46
Carter Cherney scored 25 points and 11 rebounds as the Comets used a strong first half
to defeat the Saints on Dec. 5.
“We spotted them 12-14 points before we could score the first few minutes of the game,” Hall added. “Once we reset our offense and defense, we played pretty solid basketball the rest of the way.”
Cameron went into halftime with a 32-19 lead. Treye Zimmerman earned 18 points, five rebounds and six assists.
“I thought we did a great job taking care of the ball in the second half as we only recorded six turnovers,” Hall said.
The Comets went 12-for-18 from the free
throw line compared to St. Croix Falls’ 5-for-13.
St. Croix Falls struggled to find their rhythm offensively, shooting just 17-51 from the field.
“We didn’t shoot well at times, especially from the free throw line, which makes it difficult to produce sustained scoring runs,” Hall added.
Despite the offensive challenges, Folkestad continued his strong play with 14 points and six rebounds, while Waterworth added 10 points. Wilson chipped in eight points and grabbed a team-high eight rebounds.
OHS BBB: Coach encouraged with team’s start despite losses
FROM PAGE 9
points and eight boards, and Jonah Race contributed eight points and nine rebounds.
“I was very pleased with how we started the game and how many guys stepped up and took command of the new roles they are tasked with this season,” Olson continued.
New Richmond was 15-for-21 from the free throw line compared to Osceola’s 6-for-9.
“After a few weeks of practice, we simply needed to see where we were at, so our game with New Richmond served as a good indicator of potential strengths to build off and areas we will need to address,” Olson concluded.
PRESCOTT 69, OSCEOLA 67
The co-champions from last year played another entertaining game on Dec. 6, with the Cardinals prevailing.
“It was a tale of two halves – we caught our rhythm in the first, opening up a double-digit lead,” Olson added. “In the second, Prescott started catching fire, getting themselves right back into it, and our shots weren’t dropping at the rate they were earlier.”
The Chieftains went into halftime with a 16-point lead thanks to the play of Bradway and Irlbeck.
Bradway finished with a gamehigh 23 points, connecting on four three-pointers. Irlbeck recorded a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, going 7-for-9 at the charity stripe. Jake Bents also reached double figures with 10 points.
“With Prescott making their comeback in the second half, we just couldn’t find a way to get a couple of timely baskets to stop the bleeding,” Olson added. “Our defense was also solid overall, but we had some lapses in the second half that allowed them to get some quick scores.”
Kobe Russell connected on three three-pointers to finish with a team-high 22 points for Prescott. Emmett Otto added 16. Max Monteith and Aidan Dorau recorded nine points each.
Prescott finished 11-for-24 from three-point range, while Osceola went 8-for-23.
“We need to continue to stay the course and keep building habits that will help us in the long run,” Olson concluded.
Chieftains dominate at Turtle Lake/Clayton Dual
The Osceola wrestling team showcased their strength and depth at the Turtle Lake/Clayton Dual Invite Dec. 6, winning all four matches.
Osceola started with a 64-18 win over Boyceville thanks to four pins and five forfeits.
Pins were by Travis Sicard (126 pounds), Logan Meyer (144), Wyatt Hastings (165), and Elliot Havlish (215). Talon Berg (138) defeated Boyceville’s Victor Pattermann 17-1, while Cody Meyer
First shots at deer camp 2024
I’ve always been amazed at how deer can just appear out of nowhere. I’ve also been amazed at how they stay hidden, preventing any kind of shot when they’re sneaking through thick brush, partially hidden behind trees or quietly sneaking in behind you. You can’t forget the ones that magically turn into a squirrel from the deer you heard snap that twig or rustle those leaves either. Deer coming in from behind you it tests your patience. You know you should just sit still and let the deer come into your peripheral vision. But that need to peek leads to getting busted. Bye bye buck!
This year my adult son had the best year in our group. He dropped
Stars use balance to defeat Sabers
BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM
Four different Western Wisconsin Stars girls hockey players scored a goal each helping them defeat Chippewa Falls/Menomonie 4-2 Dec. 5 in the conference opener for both teams. Ashley Jensen started the scoring with an even-strength goal at 9 minutes, 48 seconds of the second period, with Gabby Thomsen assisting. Chloe Julson made the score 2-0 with a power play goal at 16:54.
Addisyn Buesgen scored on a power play goal for CF/M 62 seconds into the third period. Izzy Johnson gave the Stars a two-goal lead again with an even-strength goal three minutes later.
Buesgen scored her second goal shorthanded at 13:18, with Rhylee Buesgen assisting. Sophia Johnson wrapped up the scoring at 15:32, with Izzy Johnson assisting.
The Stars went 2-for-4 on the power play, while CF/M went 1-for-1. Western Wisconsin outshot CF/M 27-20 overall, including 14-6 in the second period.
Saints wrestling finishes fourth at St. MichaelAlbertville Invite
BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM
Competing against some of the best teams in Minnesota, the St. Croix Falls wrestling team placed fourth in the 16-team St. Michael-Albertville Invitational Dec. 7.
shut out Boyceville’s Bryce Humpal 15-0.
In the second match, Osceola cruised to a 5520 victory over Northwestern. Travis Sicard (126), Cody Meyer (150), Isaac Dunnom (157), Tristan Campeau (175),
and Elliot Havlish (215) recorded pins. Hunter Kromrey (132) posted a 19-8 major decision over Ivan Woodhull, along with Malakai Barker’s 17-4 win over Owen Claf-
two large doe in our no buck season. His first was a large doe that he heard, then saw. He waited for that good shot from his climber tree stand and then made that perfect heart shot. Having to lean out and do a circus balancing shot but made that perfect heart shot from his tree on what we call Deer Mountain. That shot ruined the heart I wanted to save to make Lars Pickled Deer Heart in remembrance of my old deer hunting buddy Jim Larson, who passed away this year.
The other half of our hunting group, all skillful hunters are the Tupy Clan from New Prague: Dave, his 15 year old son Dane and brother Joel who was first to score this year’s opening day. Around 7:00 a.m. Joel had deer coming in from behind him, under him and on the wrong side to get a good shot. It seemed like all the deer that Joel was seeing were
“We still have a lot of work to do, but definitely a good start to the year,” SCF coach Joe Raygor added. “I think the biggest thing in some of these big tough Minnesota tournaments is the kids never stop wrestling, and it’s great for our kids to feel that kind of pressure later in the season.”
Logan Bockman won the 285-pound title thanks to two pins, a technical fall, and a decision. The final was a pin over Andover’s Tramaine Davis in 2 minutes and 52 seconds.
“He’s continuing to put the pieces together and grow,” Raygor added.
Thanks to two decisions and a pin, Griffin Marko took second at 189 pounds. He lost to St. Michael-Albertville’s John Murphy in the final.
“He continues to wrestle hard and lead by example,” Raygor stated.
fourth with 117. ST. MICHAEL GIRLS INVITE
The Saints girls took third out of 17 schools Dec. 7.
“The sport is growing, and it was great to see so many female wrestlers competing,” Raygor added. “Our beginners and advanced kids all got good matches, and STMA ran a great event.”
The Saints had two firsts – Kylie Miller at 148 pounds and Lauryn Vee at 130 pounds. Miller clinched the title thanks to a 19-1 technical fall over Pine City-Hinkley-Finlayson’s Violet Albrecht.
“She continues to learn and grow each day; it’s fun to see her keep developing while winning in her relatively young career,” Raygor stated.
Vee earned the title with a 17-2 technical fall over teammate Lily Kne.
Besides Kne, Nevaeh Nwachukwu (142) and Tessa Becker (235) were second.
“We had two firstyear wrestlers earn their first wins this weekend in Piper Ray and Rae Belleza,” Raygor concluded. “it’s great to see them get some success and apply some techniques early on.”
Taking fourths were Kaiden Hahn (114) and Drake Petersen (172), while Dominic Viebrock (133) and Isaac Briggs (145) were fifths.
St. Michael-Albertville won the meet with 262.5 points followed by Sheyenne’s 183.5. Waconia took third with 141. The Saints placed
SUPERIOR QUADRANGULAR
The Saints cruised to three conference victories in the Superior Quadrangular Dec. 5, with wins over Ashland (76-0), Barron (715) and Superior (62-9).
“This was our first
Columnist
Jim Bennett
SCF GBB: Off to challenging start
FROM PAGE 9
Bateman registered nine points and five rebounds, and Catherine Williams tallied seven points and three rebounds.
“We were able to create quite a few turnovers with our press,” Maternowsky added. Northwestern finished with 21 turnovers.
SUPERIOR 57, ST. CROIX FALLS 24
Twenty-nine turnovers doomed the Saints’ chances as Superior
claimed the Dec. 7 win at UW-River Falls.
“The first nine minutes of the game, we played extremely well, especially on defense,” Maternowsky added. “It was a fun experience to play on the longer/ college court. Great experience for the girls to play.”
Amber Bateman registered 12 points and seven rebounds., while Lucy Braund posted four points. Olivia Shimon chipped in with five rebounds.
WRESTLING: Chiefs dominate
FROM PAGE 10
flin at 113 pounds. Logan Meyer (144) posted a 17-1 technical fall over Seth Cruz.
The Chieftains then posted a 64-17 win over Phillips via four pins: Isaac Dunnom (157), Wyatt Hastings (165), Elliot Havlish (215), and Malakai Barker (113).
Hunter Kromrey earned a 16-1 technical fall over Caiden Boudreaux at 132 pounds, while Talon
BIRTHS
OSCEOLA MEDICAL CENTER
Osceola, Wisconsin
Nov. 24, 2024: A girl, Sadie Iris Kadrlik, weighing 6 pounds 3 ounces, to Wendy and Taylor Kadrlik, Grantsburg.
Nov. 26, 2024: A girl, Rosie Ann Roberts,
Berg defeated Will Pisca 17-1 at 138 pounds.
Osceola closed out the duals with a 61-16 win over the host Turtle Lake/Clayton with four pins: Talon Berg (138), Isaac Dunnom (157), Travis Sicard (126), and Hunter Kromrey (132).
Malakai Barker earned a 16-4 major decision win over Luke Moen at 113 pounds, while Cody Meyer decisioned Owen Anderson 13-7 at 150 pounds.
RECYLING: Holiday recycling
FROM PAGE 6 bags will likely end up in the trash. If you collect cans, bottles and other recyclables in a bag to reduce mess, empty the bag into your bin or cart and then put the bag in the trash. You can take many types of clean, dry plastic bags and wrap to store dropoff locations. Learn more about reducing, reusing and recycling plastic bags and wrap on the DNR’s Recycling Plastic Bags webpage, https://dnr.wisconsin. gov/topic/Recycling/ bags.html.
• Batteries and electronics. Recycling facilities that manage cans, bottles and cardboard and waste facilities that manage household garbage aren’t set up to handle batteries and electronics. Rechargeable batteries can cause fires in collection trucks and facilities if they are damaged by
weighing 5 pounds 11 ounces, to Hannah and Kyle Roberts, Grantsburg.
Dec. 2, 2024: A girl, Lorelai Irene-Elizabeth Steinhoff-Yates, weighing 7 pounds 5.5 ounces, to Miranda Steinhoff-Yates and Michael Steinhoff, Shafer, Minn.
equipment, and many electronics contain hazardous materials. Find more on how to recycle batteries and electronics, including drop-off site locations, on the DNR’s Electronics Recycling webpage, https://dnr.wisconsin. gov/topic/Ecycle.
• Tissue paper. While not a hazard, the fibers in this type of paper are too short to be recycled and reused again.
• Photo cards and cards that play music, light up or have glitter or ribbons. These cards may contain batteries, which are a fire risk, or nonrecyclable material that contaminates other paper.
For more information about what can and can’t be recycled, visit the DNR’s What to Recycle in Wisconsin webpage, https://dnr. wisconsin.gov/topic/ Recycling/Banned. html.
A LOOK AHEAD
BOWLING
If you answered “yes” to these questions and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, this may be the job you are looking for.
The Amery Free Press seeks a Sales Apprentice to join our multi-media advertising and marketing team.
This is a full-time position. You will help our team in Amery and Baldwin and potentially our papers in Osceola and Grantsburg sell and place advertising in our publications. Regular accounts will be assigned to this position, and a training program will be provided to allow the apprentice to grow into a full-time Multimedia Advisor with the Free Press.
Duties include scheduling and billing ads, proofing ads, and preparing materials for the ad rep to sell. Day-to-day sales functions, including dealing with customers in person, by phone, or by email; picking up payments for ads; dropping off proofs with customers and getting changes to ads; internal proofing of ad pages; and other functions related to the gathering of ads for multiple papers, websites, and other forms of advertising.
Hourly pay, incentives, and a complete benefit package are provided.
If you like working with customers and live to make sure it’s right, consider sending your resume to:
Tom Stangl, Publisher Amery Free Press P.O. Box 424 • Amery, WI 54001 tstangl@theameryfreepress.com
The Golden Girls 105 Osceola Cleaners 100 Hauge Dental 87.5 200: Meghan Tinney, 211, 204. 600: Meghan Tinney, 607. High game: Osceola Lanes, 616. High series: Osceola Cleaners, 1810.
BENNETT: First shots during deer camp 2024
FROM PAGE 10
playing games with him. In fact, deer game playing kept deer hidden from Joel all of last year too. This year Joel was ready when he finally got his shot and dropped a fat buck fawn since the big Dog Town Mountain doe in 2021.
Dane was also playing hide and seek with deer. Even though the deer avoided him for part of the morning, Dane finally got a break
HOROSCOPES
ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20
Your pioneering spirit is in full swing this week, Aries. Embrace new challenges and don’t hesitate to get out front and take the lead. You just might inspire others with your confidence.
TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21
Make finances a priority this week, Taurus. A bit of budgeting could ease some of the financial stress that has been affecting you lately. Indulge in a small luxury as a reward for hard work.
GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21
Conversations could be interesting this week, Gemini. You’re curious about what others do when they are home behind closed doors. Don’t pry too much.
CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, nurture your relationships this week, particularly if work has garnered most of your
CLUES ACROSS
1. Thou __ do it
6. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.)
9. Brainstem part
13. Town in New York state
14. Little (Spanish)
15. Continent
16. Retch
17. Short-billed rails
18. Small period of time (abbr.)
19. Confused
21. A team needs one
22. Woman in ancient times
23. Republican Party
24. Spanish be
25. “The Godfather” character
Johnny
28. Not around
29. City in Zambia
31. A type of beginning
33. Numb
36. Gurus
38. Small, gray-headed crow
39. Vehicle type
41. Disorders
44. One point east of southeast
45. Indian soldier
46. Tree type
48. Midway between south and southeast
49. It cools your home
51. Corn comes on it
52. Ship’s deck
54. A way to bake
56. Improvised
60. Butterfly genus
61. Baseball fields have them
62. Designated space
63. Discharge
64. Two of something
65. Once more
66. Part of your face
67. Tax collector
68. Cassia tree
CLUES DOWN
1. One-time Aaron Rodgers
2. Wings
Overly studious person
They protect your valuables 5. The Volunteer State
when another buck fawn gave him a shot that he took advantage of, allowing him to write his deer harvest story on our Traveling Trophy for the first time.
Dave enjoys the challenge of learning new areas. “I like hunting new areas,” he said. “Figuring out where the deer are and the trails they use. You have to pick the right place to set your tree stand if you want to take a deer home.” The area they chose is not
attention of late. Pay attention to your own needs, too, and enjoy some relaxation.
LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23
Employ your natural charisma to forge new connections and network at upcoming events, Leo. You are good at sharing ideas and expressing yourself with confidence.
VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22
Tackle one job at a time and focus on what is important to get done this week, Virgo. It can be easy to get side-tracked by side projects. Or that might be your way to procrastinate.
LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, surround yourself with positive influences this week. You want others supporting you at every turn while you take on an important project that comes up.
SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22
Use your intense focus and
6. Non-hydraulic cement
7. Horse mackerel
Jackson and Diddley are two
Splendid displays
Mountain in NE Greece
A daughter or your brother or sister
German surname
Having more than one husband at a time
Romanian city
Makes less hot
Gas diffusion electrode
Former CIA
Set an example for others
a mowed city park. It’s wild woods with all the brush, cover and hidden trails you’d ever want. Dave wouldn’t want it another way and even if he did have to shoot a tree first before taking that big doe, he was ready to do it… To be continued.
Jim Bennett is an outdoorsman who lived and worked in the St. Croix River Valley and can be reached at jamesbennett24@ gmail.com for comments.
attention to detail to delve into projects that require those specific skills, Scorpio. In fact, someone may ask you to work on a project for these traits alone.
SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21
Embrace the unknown this week. Let yourself get led off in different directions from those you normally travel, Sagittarius. Who knows what you may find along the way?
CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20
Revisit your goals and make a plan for the future, Capricorn. Remember to take the people closest to you into consideration. Do not trample them in the process of getting ahead.
AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, collaborate with like-minded individuals who are ready to think outside the box. It is amazing what you can accomplish when you multiply
your power.
PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20
You might need to warm up before the creative energy starts to flow, Pisces. Don’t worry, once you have the right inspiration, things will begin moving at a rapid pace.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 8
Nicki Minaj, Rapper (42)
DECEMBER 9
Donny Osmond, Singer (67)
DECEMBER 10
Kenneth Branagh, Director (64)
DECEMBER 11
Hailee Steinfeld, Actress (28)
DECEMBER 12
Ed Oliver, Athlete (27)
DECEMBER 13
Taylor Swift, Singer (35)
DECEMBER 14
Vanessa Hudgens, Actress (36)
FFry up traditional foods for Chanukah
oods fried in oil traditionally are served during Chanukah celebrations. This custom commemorates the miracle of candelabra oil miraculously lasting eight days in the rededicated and cleaned Temple, despite just a single day’s supply. Latkes are a fried dish enjoyed through the ages. Since potatoes have long been inexpensive and tasty, they became a key ingredient in latkes (Yiddish for pancakes) among poor eastern European Jews. Eventually, potato latkes became a standard on holidays like Chanukah. Served warm and crispy, latkes are something no one wants to miss. Preparing and serving latkes in small batches can showcase them at their best. This Chanukah, try the following recipe for “Helen Wallerstein’s Potato Latkes” from “Food, Hope & Resilience: Authentic Recipes and Remarkable Stories from Holocaust Survivors” (American Palate) by June Hersh.
Helen Wallerstein’s Potato Latkes
Yield: 24 latkes
5 medium russet potatoes, peeled
1 medium onion, grated (use a large one if you like a strong onion flavor)
4 eggs, beaten
1⁄2 cup matzo meal
1 to 2 teaspoons salt
1⁄4 to 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
1⁄2 cup vegetable oil for frying
In a food processor using the metal blade, or using a box grater, finely grate the potatoes. Place them in a colander and squeeze out all the liquid. Grate the onion, using the food processor pulse feature to capture any small chunks. Stir the onions, eggs, matzo meal, salt, and pepper into the potato mixture.
Heat 1⁄2 inch of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until very hot (a drop of water should dance in the pan). To test the seasonings before frying the entire batch (you wouldn’t want to taste the raw potato and egg mixture), drop one tablespoon of the mixture into the hot oil, fry for several minutes on each side and drain on a paper towel. Taste the latke and add more salt or pepper if needed. Now you are ready to make the rest. Drop a generous tablespoon of latke batter into the skillet and flatten the pancake with the back of a spatula. Turn the latkes over when the underside is nicely brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Fry until golden on both sides. Drain on waiting paper towels.
Repeat this process, adding more oil to the pan and a touch more matzo meal to the mixture if needed to absorb the excess liquid that will collect in the bowl. Serve hot.
Adjunct Instructor Plastic Injection Mold Apprenticeship
New Richmond Campus (PT)
Mountain range
Support of a particular person 29. One from the Big Apple
Violate the sanctity of something
Supervises flying
Talks
Persian male given name
Born of
Forcibly take one’s possessions
Discounts
Posh Colorado destination
Middle Eastern nation
Equally
Join our team as a part-time instructor for an exciting Introduction to Injection Molding course, helping shape the next generation of skilled professionals with flexible afternoon and evening hours!
Health Education Center Simulation Specialist
Shell Lake HEC (FT/LTE)
We are seeking a dedicated Technician to oversee daily technical operations for simulations and Telehealth, including maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing simulators and related equipment.
Sinn __, Irish organization
Ethiopian lake
Bits per inch (abbr.)
CLASSIFIEDS
STUFF REMOVAL
DAVE NEUMANN | OWNER
715.220.0053 CALL FOR PRICING
Providing removal of anything big or small from A-Z
If you are outgoing, responsible and well-spoken, this position is for you!
The Free Press, in print, online and social media reaches a weekly audience of 16,000, making it the go-to source for local marketing. With the largest, local audience in the trade area, businesses trust their marketing can and does produce great results. We have testimonials/ reviews/case studies to show it.
If you love helping others, can put the customer first, and are intrigued about working for an essential business providing vital community information, journalism and marketing, please contact us. Sales and customer service experience preferred, but we will train the right person. Must have current driver’s license, reliable transportation and an
driving record.
The Congregational UCC Church of Amery
OFFICE MANAGER
Amery Congregational Church UCC is seeking an Office Manager with people skills for 20 hrs per week. Duties include greeting visitors, answering incoming communications, providing administrative assistance to staff and committees, assisting the Financial Director in managing financial information, and monitoring/ordering supplies. Proficiency required in Microsoft Office 365, web maintenance, social media communication skills. Knowledge in Church Windows is helpful. Apply at office.ameryucc@gmail.com. Subject line "office manager”. Resume’ appreciated. 201 Harriman Ave. N, Amery, 715-268- 7390
TREASURER
The City of Scandia is accepting applications for a part-time Treasurer. The position will be under the direction of the City Administrator. The treasurer will be responsible for accounting functions for City financial systems and investments and reporting financial status to the Council. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent education and two years of accounting or bookkeeping experience. Preferred qualifications include a two or four-year degree in accounting or a related field, government accounting experience, and/or experience with Banyon accounting software.
The pay range is $20.00 - $26.00 per hour plus benefits. A city application is required. For a copy of the application materials, contact the city at 651 433-2274 or visit the city website at www.cityofscandia.com/jobs. Submit the completed application packet to the City of Scandia, 14727 209th St. N., Scandia, MN, 55073, or mail@ci.scandia. mn.us. The position is open until filled. The expected start date is early January 2025.
hire, must obtain Municipal Water Supply Groundwater and Distribution Operator Certification. Applicants must possess a valid Wisconsin Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with Air Brake Endorsement or must obtain permit within 90 days of hire. Wage range: DOQ. Benefit
SCF WRESTLING: Fourth at weekend tourney
conference quadrangular, so it’s always great to see the kids lace them up, get out there, and fight,” Raygor said. “Bus driver Dave Berg stepped up big for us and took us to Superior. That’s a late night, but he did an excellent job.
“Regarding wrestling,
we have a lot to work on, and we weren’t near our best versions, but I was happy with the kid’s efforts. We need to get in better shape and continue to work on putting moves together in a steady, fluent motion.”
Kaiden Hahn, Kort Fleck, Dominic Viebrock, Isaac Briggs, Chase Steffen, Connor
Assisted living is ideal for people who can still live independently but need extra assistance with daily tasks such as taking medication, bathing, dressing, making meals, housekeeping, transportation and other everyday needs.
Weber, Payton Kelly, Drake Petersen, Griffin Marko, and Logan Bockman all went undefeated.
“They scored many bonus points for the team tonight,” Raygor added.
Raygor noted Briggs’ 144-pound win over Justin DeFoe of Ashland by a 10-0 score.
“This one was fun because last year Briggs took a loss to DeFoe,” Raygor said. “Briggs worked a lot in the offseason and showed some great improvement.”
Amber, Stage 3 Breast Cancer