The Sun 01.15.25

Milk House lawsuit set for summer jury trial

BY MATT ANDERSON EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

After more than two years of ongoing litigation, the lawsuit filed concerning the former Milk House property in the Village of Osceola is scheduled for a jury trial in August of this year. The lawsuit was initially filed by LME Enterprises LLC and Milk LLC d/b/a Wisconsin Milk House against Timothy Henningsgard, Noah Insurance and West Bend Mutual Insurance Company in the Polk County Circuit Court regarding the insurance policy of the now demolished Milk House property which the former property owner Lisa Erickson alleged was “grossly underinsured.”

According to the complaint filed in July 2022, agent, Vice President and owner of Noah Insurance Timothy Henningsgard handled Erickson’s insurance policy, which was issued by West Bend Mutual Insurance Company. The complaint states that Erickson contacted Noah Insurance, telling them she would be purchasing the property for a cash price of $55,000 in

December 2020, and renting retail space to MILK and a hair salon and that it would also continue to have residential tenants and an Air BnB unit. Due to structural concerns in the Milk House causing the staircase to Cascade Falls to be close in November 2021, the building was eventually demolished in April 2023 after the Village of Osceola claimed ownership of the property. According to the complaint, “The cost to demolish and rebuild the Property is well in excess of $2,000,000,” and that, “The Noah Defen-

dants and West Bend woefully underinsured LME and the Property by placing coverage that only accounted for approximately 16% of the rebuild, debris removal and demolition costs,” also stating that the Noah defendants placed, “a limit of $50,000 on its business loss income.”

The complaint also states that, “The Noah Defendants specifically stated, promised and represented to Ms. Erickson, Plaintiffs and the general public that they had long-insured the Property and are specialists and insurance

advisors that Ms. Erickson/Plaintiffs could rely upon for appropriate coverages,” and that, “LME and MILK requested and reasonably expected that the Noah Defendants would procure sufficient and proper coverage for each entity. The Noah Defendants never advised Plaintiffs that they lacked the appropriate experience to properly place coverage, that they could not procure sufficient coverage or policy limits, and West Bend publicly endorsed the Noah Defendants as

Town of Osceola website will receive an upgrade

BY MATT ANDERSON EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

The Town of Osceola website is set to receive some necessary updates in the near future. The Osceola Town Board of Supervisors considered a proposal from B Hot Marketing, the town’s website maintenance firm, to an IONOS website hosting plan that is proposed to be more streamlined and cost effective.

“Jolene Jones, the owner for our website maintenance firm B Hot Marketing, let us know after the December board meeting that the website needs an upgrade and to be moved to a more affordable server and it said that the extended costs will continue to recur each month until we get the website upgraded,” said Town Clerk Dani Pratt. “The hardware that supports the website, the PHP, is

the behind-the-scenes codes that run the website, and the frontend design tools are what I use to manage the website.

“She says, ‘What I propose will be very similar to what you have, but with new and improved backend system… We’re keeping all the changes to your workflow to a minimum and expect a painless transition. The site will be powered by a very light version of WordPress, keeping things simple.’”

The town’s current website host is through Amazon AWS, which B Hot Marketing stated has increased its fees and is currently unpredictable. B Hot Marketing proposed a migration of the town website to IONOS, which they claim will be more cost effective and simple to use.

Osceola School District referenda unlikely to go to voters

BY MATT ANDERSON EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

Osceola residents are not likely to see a referendum from the Osceola School District on the ballot this year. After reviewing survey results sent to taxpayers in 2024, the Osceola School Board discussed the results at their January 8 meeting where their consensus leaned toward skipping a referendum in upcoming elections.

The Osceola School Board was considering two potential referendums that could have gone to taxpayers for a vote: an operational referendum, and a capital referendum to remodel the current elementary school. According to the survey results from 966 respondents within the Osceola School District, less than 50% supported a proposed operational referendum and was not expected to pass if it went to voters. The proposed elemen-

tary school remodel results were within the margin of error and were too close to call whether it would pass if left to the voters. Because of the results, each member of the board indicated that moving to a referendum would likely not be worth putting to a vote in the upcoming elections.

“I just don’t know there’s anything that can be said here that will convince me otherwise at this point,” said Board Treasurer Cory

Schmidt. “I just don’t think it is wise for us to go forward with any referendum. I think we have to listen to our public even though the one, because of the margin of error, could be a yes… I don’t think that’s enough for me to support us going through with another referendum… I think the public has spoken and we need to listen.”

“Like Cory, there was not going to be much that could be answered or said tonight

that was going to push me in a direction of wanting to move forward,” said Board Clerk Brooke Oye. “But I’m excited to figure out; find a solution. Let’s hit the ground running and figure out how we at least do that.”

At the Jan. 8 meeting, the board reviewed the Osceola School District’s history of referenda, stating that the district has proposed referenda

NEALY CORCORAN | THE SUN

The Milk House in downtown Osceola closed in November 2021 after structural issues with the building were discovered. The building was razed in April of 2023.

Rumble strip discussion quieted by engineer

Discussion about safety at highways I and 48 concludes with a request for more information

BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET

Despite a recent accident fatality at the intersection County Highway I and State Highway 48, a request to consider the installation of roadway rumble strips at the location seems to be headed nowhere.

The request and discussion about the intersection was held during the Polk County Public Safety/Public Works Committee whose members heard that a state engineer had already recommended no changes be made at the intersection.

Though members of the committee seemed interested in the possibility of rumble strips at the intersection, they eventually decided to gather more information with a possible intent of addressing the issue at a later date.

However, County Highway Commissioner Josh Kelch said he presented the issue and the possibility of installing rumble strips with the engineer, but their conclusion was that the intersection had not met the criteria required for rumble strips – mostly because of the low number of vehicles passing through that area.

Nancy Beduhn, a supervisor with the Town of Bone Lake,

told supervisors during the public comment session of the meeting, that the intersection was a danger and that something needed to be done before there was another fatal accident at the location.

She described an accident in September when a local resident was distracted, ran the intersection, and collided with another vehicle. There was no fatality in this particular accident, but a previous collision a month before at the intersection had resulted in a death.

“[The driver] is fairly new to the community,” Beduhn said, “but she must have been distracted and she ran the stop sign and she hit a semi and she was going fast enough that she broke the rear axle on the truck and when she was found she was hanging outside of her car with the seatbelt around her neck and she had to have five vertebrae fused … she has lost 80% of her neck movement for the rest of her life,” she said.

Beduhn continued: “Now, I do truly believe that if [rumble strips] were replaced on both sides of that intersection, we could prevent serious injuries …”

Beduhn also came to the meeting armed with a petition signed by more than 200 people asking to have changes made at the intersection.

More info

Kelch confirmed the fatality at the intersection last August, with the second accident

in September as described by Beduhn.

“Just to note, both were flagged as distracted driving or mobile phone use. I’ve read both accident reports - both resulted in failure to stop at the stop sign and impacted traffic traveling on State Highway 48,” he said.

“The August fatality involved a vehicle traveling northbound on Highway I that failed to heed the dual stop signs and struck an eastbound SUV traveling on Highway 48,” Kelch said.

He went on to say that rumble strips are not common on the majority of Polk County roads. While there previously had been strips at the I and 48 highway intersection for northbound traffic on Highway 48, they were removed a while back.

“They were removed during our last mill and repave of County Road I … There were some issues with the rumble strips that were installed there,” Kelch said. “I believe they were installed in-house, but not properly engineered for. And then after analysis it was determined that they weren’t needed at that intersection,” he added.

After a short discussion about the Traffic Safety Commission and its role in determining decisions like this, Kelch said, “Mr. Chairman, the safety committee’s not going to determine if we install rumble strips on our county highway system,” adding that it’s not within their power to

do so.

During the lengthy discussion, Kelch said that the county and the state have agreed that rumble strips are not necessary at the bulk of intersections within the county boundaries.

Other options

Supervisors and staff talked about other options that might make a difference.

“So, currently we have dual stop ahead signs and dual stop signs northbound at County Road I and State Road 48,” Kelch said. “The visibility for those signs, the advanced warning is excellent as you approach from the south and heading north. We also installed new ‘spin alert’ warning systems on top of the dual ‘stop ahead’ signs. We could not get WisDOT’s approval to add them to the stop signs.”

He continued: “Just the slightest breeze will allow the alerts to spin. They’ve got high prismatic reflective material, white and red on the three sides and as they spin in the headlights at night, that’s almost like a strobe. They show up really good, better at night, of course, and during daylight hours. So, we’ve installed them on the stop ahead [sign], approaching both sides of that intersection and we installed the reflective red material to the posts of those signs, too, which we couldn’t talk WisDOT into.”

In his conversations with the state engineer, Kelch said there were several factors that

were taken into consideration. The engineer was adamant about the intersection not needing the strips.

“I provided him with the information … and he concluded that there were no recommended improvements for this intersection. I discussed with him the rumble strips. He did his research on community maps. Called me back. He just doesn’t see any needed improvements for this intersection based on the design standards and what we have existing in the county currently. We installed the additional reflective material shortly after the second injury accident this summer.”

A cost analysis also revealed that each strip would be approximately $800.

Utilizing three separate strips on each side of the intersection would cost $2,400 per stop sign.

When considering the pros and cons of rumble strips, it was pointed out that they are effective. In fact, they result in a reduction in accidents along rural roads around 20%. In addition to the costs for installation, they also create noise for surrounding residents, which is also taken into consideration when installation could take place.

“Rumble strips do create noise for surrounding residents,” Kelch said. “And that is one concern that you can find online when people are complaining about the rumbles.”

SEE COUNTY, PAGE 16

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 oppor-

tunity 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 15

Bloodmobile

The American Red Cross will be at St. Croix Health, St. Croix

LAWSUIT: Milk House law suit goes to trial this summer

FROM PAGE 1

its vetted, trusted partner.”

In their July 29, 2022 response to the lawsuit, the defendants replied, “In the event the Plaintiffs sustained any damages, it is the result of the Plaintiff’s own respective fault, responsibility, negligence, or the fault, responsibility, or negligence of other parties over whom the Noah Defendants have no control.

“The Complaint fails to state a cause of action upon which relief can be granted against the Noah Defendants regarding breach of expressed warranty, Wisconsin Deceptive Trade Practices Act, and Unfair Trade Practices.”

SCHOOL: Referenda

FROM PAGE 1

five times in the past eight years leaving the board to consider referendum fatigue as a contributing factor in the failed capital referendum in April 2024, and the results of the survey. After reviewing the survey results, comparisons to other schools in the Middle Border Conference, the economy, and potential to be frozen from proposing another operational referendum for three years if another referendum failed this year, the board showed hesitancy to bring the referenda considered in this year’s election.

“This is not an Osceola School District problem, this is a state of Wisconsin problem,” said Board President Brooke Kulzer. “There are districts across the state that are falling in line exactly with us and more Middle Border districts

unlikely to go to voters

that are falling in line with us. But inflation alone hasn’t kept up with school spending and what our students need to be successful and to pay the best staff to be in front of our kids. But to risk being frozen and essentially doubling our loss… for me isn’t worth it.”

Despite the survey showing unfavorable results toward both the capital and operational referenda, the board appreciated the public for providing their input and found that providing the survey to taxpayers benefited the district. Going forward, the board has shown interest in working with the public to gather input and work toward solutions outside of going to referendum this year.

“One of the biggest ‘ahas’ for me is the work that we can do if we don’t go [to referendum], which is building that trust,” said Superintendent Becky Styles. “That seems

Falls, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. To donate blood simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767.

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

THE OPEN CUPBOARD

basket raffle call Jen, 651-303-3664.

JANUARY 25

Puzzle contest

Third Annual WMPL Puzzle Contest, 10:30 a.m. at the Osceola Senior Center, 310 Chieftain St. Put together a team of up to four puzzlers and compete with other teams to finish the 500-piece jigsaw puzzle the fastest. Space is limited; registration is required. Contact Wilberg Memorial Public Library for information or to register, 715-294-2310.

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.

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.

The jury trial is currently scheduled in the Polk County Circuit Court starting Aug. 25, 2025. The trial presided by Judge Daniel J. Tolan is set for 10 days and planned for conclusion on Oct. 24, 2025. The Sun reached out to all parties and did not receive response by press time.

to be missing because I’m not interested in hiding anything from anybody. And there are factors that are out of our control, but there are also many factors that are in our control. And there are so many people from the community who have reached out with positive ideas and thoughts and engagement.

“They want to be part of the solution. And I feel like if we go to referendum, we don’t get to do that… Rather than do that, let’s spend the money and the time and the energy on educating the people that are here because they value our schools. I don’t think there’s anybody that doesn’t value what we offer and why people pick Osceola schools. But I think we have to dig in a little bit deeper and really have a clear transparent plan in place.”

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

OPINION

It’s

still January

It’s been a strange winter so far. Warmer than normal to start, no snow to speak of, then rain, then snow for Christmas. The rain obliterated the snowpack and the cold weather finally arrived.

As a person who has spent more than 60 years of his life in the upper Midwest, this winter is a new level of strangeness. Last week’s blizzard that occurred in Missouri, Tennessee, and other parts of the South was a good old-fashioned Wisco-sota storm. As strange as it was for us, it was more than likely apocalyptic for the residents of the area. I worked for 15 years for a company headquartered south of St. Louis. In January or early February, we would travel to the home office for budget meetings. One year, it snowed several inches. There was lots of advance warning for the storm. A seminar was held the day the storm was supposed to start. Many of the participants left early because it was “fixin’ to snow!”

But for as much as we all like to complain about the weather, we are fortunate to live in a time when many meteorological events can be predicted. Yes, I know the weatherman is a job where you can be wrong half the time and still keep your job, but as bad as we think the forecasters are, at least we have their work to use to plan our days.

Sunday marked the 137th anniversary of The Children’s Blizzard, a winter storm that hit on Jan. 12, 1888. By the time the storm ended, an estimated 235 people had died, making the storm the world’s tenth-deadliest winter storm.

The weather was warm the day before the storm, with highs in the 40s, so many were caught off guard. The storm brought flash-frozen droplets that moved at over 60 miles per hour. Temperatures dropped to 47 degrees below zero in Moorhead. The storm is also called the Schoolhouse Blizzard because many students and teachers were stranded at one-room schoolhouses without food or fuel. There are numerous stories of heroism by teachers, students and parents from the event.

The death toll is thought to be higher because many deaths were not attributed to the storm. I think about this storm when I see people running from their cars to stores in shorts and t-shirts in January. As a society, we have all become accustomed to technology saving the day. Many, many times, technology will be just fine. But the times when it does fail, bad things may happen if we are unprepared. Remember what your mother said about dressing properly for the weather. Mom was right about this and a whole lot more.

I also know that warmer than normal weather is very easy to get used to in a short period of time. Let’s face it, we all would like to be in a green, sunny place that is 70º. Well, most of us. My dogs don’t spend much time outside during these cold snaps. Burning off their energy is a challenge. Doing some zoomies and being chased by the kitten in the house helps wear down their batteries. Yes, they also chase the kitten, but it’s not predatory.

Take heart, we are picking up a minute of daylight each and every day. Springtime is coming.

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.

It’s the little things

The snow has finally arrived, and by the looks of it, it’s here to stay. That means one of my least favorite chores to do: snow blowing. But this past Sunday, I had a moment that made that chore come full circle from my childhood to my fatherhood.

Editor

Matt Anderson

When I was little, it was always kind of exciting when my dad would snow blow the driveway. I remember most nights he would suit up to embrace the cold and clear the driveway, I would do the same. Of course, I wasn’t much help. I just wanted to play in the snow while my dad did the hard work.

But I loved it. There was something about being out there with my dad, even though we weren’t talking, that made me happy to play in the snow while he lugged around that red beast of a snowblower. Maybe I was just fasci-

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nated with the snowblower itself, maybe I just wanted to be around my dad. Either way, it was a great excuse to get out and romp in the snow for a little while.  Fast forward to today, I’m not so fond of snow blowing. You’d think maybe I’d have some reverence for it having such fond memories of playing out in the snow so many times while my dad was doing it, but no. It’s such a slog to gear up, trudge through the snow, fill it up, and push that monstrous machine up and down the driveway. Sometimes you put too much gear on and sweat in the cold. Other times the wind is howling and blows the snow directly back into your face. It’s just a pain no matter what you do.

But as I was clearing the driveway on Sunday, I had a simple moment that brought me back to those good ol’ days.

Our son Graydon is going on three years old. He’s a little spitfire; always running around, getting himself into things, screaming his little head off. He’s a non-stop bundle of energy, so we’re always looking for ways

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to keep him entertained. But he hasn’t spent a ton of time out in the snow, and until now, we didn’t have the option since we didn’t have any snow.

In the middle of clearing our driveway, out walks Graydon with my wife Kylee all bundled up in his snowpants, his puffy red jacket, and his tractor hat, ready to play in the snow just like I did when my dad would break out the snowblower.

I just lit up. I was instantly sent back to my days of playing in the snow while my dad did the tedious chore of clearing our driveway. I helped him put his little mittens on and sent him on his way with Kylee to have their fun together. Every time I took another pass by him, he said, “Hi dada.” It was such a simple moment, but it choked me up and broke me out of the monotony of a chore that I typically despise.

It really is those little things that mean the most. I’m typically a high-strung, anxious person. I was already feeling that way

ANDERSON, PAGE 5

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ABOUT THE TOWN

After our first significant snowfall of the season, it’s finally looking like winter outside. We’ve started off the new year with many things to be grateful for and add to the list daily. First, we would like to extend a huge thank you to Evan Masterson of AeroSnap Thermal Drone Recovery Services. Last week, our boy Maximus went missing after he wandered away from his foster home. We were heartbroken, but Max’s foster mom enlisted the help of Evan and his amazing drone technology. After a quick deployment of his thermal drone, Evan located Max and guided him back to safety. Max was so excited to be home again, and our staff showered him with treats and love. We can’t thank Evan enough for his expertise and quick action. Next up, meet our Pet of the Week, Audrey! This sweet, one-year-old spayed female shepherd mix has so much love to give. Audrey came to us after her owner faced a serious health issue and needed long-term hospitalization. While she may have missed out on (or completely forgotten) some training, Audrey is bursting with puppy-like energy and a thirst for adventure. She loves bel-

At home with Felix

It’s been a big year for our cat, Felix.

Sometime in late 2023, Felix was scooped up off the street in Mexico by a teenager and brought to the home of her mother and aunt. I’m not sure how he was received when he arrived. They already had 11 dogs, at least a couple of cats and several birds. They gave him food and a home, and I imagine the teenager, Daniela, thought that the fostering arrangement would eventually become permanent.

Columnist

Carrie Classon

But that’s not what happened.

Daniela’s aunt, Marcela, works at the environmental preserve where my husband, Peter, hikes every day, and one day he asked her, “Do you have a cat or a kitten looking for a home?”

Probably, the way Peter asked was a little less elegant, because Peter does not speak Spanish. But she did—have a cat, that is. She still had the cat her niece, Daniela, had brought home two months earlier.

Daniela and Marcela and Daniela’s mother all came over in a taxicab with Felix to our little apartment and we met him. I expected he would be terrified in a new place with new people.

But Felix was not afraid. He sprawled across the couch and looked at all these people looking at him and seemed to feel he was right where he belonged. And so he came to live with us in February. Daniela came again when they dropped Felix off, and we could tell she was sad. But we promised to send pictures and take good care of him, and we have done both.

And Felix seems to love his new life.

Instead of sharing a house with several cats and a rotating cast of dogs and birds, he is the only non-

ly rubs and treats, and we think she’d thrive with some basic training and structure. Audrey hasn’t been around cats or other dogs yet, but we think with slow introductions, she’d do well. In fact, having another dog around might help her burn off some of her energy. You can meet Audrey or any of our adoptable dogs and cats by stopping in anytime – no appointment is needed.

We also want to thank the Dresser Lions Club and Ward’s Bar for hosting a very successful meat raffle to benefit us.

The Dresser Lions Club generously provided all the meat for the raffle, and Ward’s Bar hosted the event on Friday, January 10th. Thanks to their support and to everyone who participated, they raised an amazing $718 for the animals

in our care! We are so grateful for our community’s generosity. And the good times keep rolling! Mark your calendars for another meat raffle on January 29th at Balsam Lake Brewery (101 1st Ave E in Balsam Lake) starting at 6 p.m. This is another great opportunity to win some delicious prizes while helping us continue to care for the pets in need.

As always, thank you to our amazing community for your continued support. We are located at 185 Griffin St E in Amery and can be reached at (715) 268-7387. Be sure to follow us on Facebook at facebook. com/arnellhumane for updates and more ways to get involved. Our business hours are Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Meeting Jimmy Carter

Ihave fond memories of our 39th president of the United States which go back to 1977 when he was elected. I was included among six publishers of community weekly newspapers from around the United States to visit with President Carter in the Oval Office to share conditions of the state of the country from a small-town perspective.

Columnist

Gene Johnson

It was an awesome, almost speechless, experience. I had voted for this president for his fundamental character and Christian principles. As we all remember, it was a time of inflation and a difficult time to meet those high expectations.

Another one of our favorite memories includes visiting Plaints, Ga., while our daughter Stephanie spent a year with Habitat for Humanity in nearby Americus, Ga. We would visit with Stephanie and go to the president’s church in Plains and sit in on the service as well as his Sunday School class. We were even there on his 70th birthday and had a family picture taken with him.

Jimmy Carter’s contributions were perhaps most significant following his presidency for his leadership in brokering peace and conflict mediation throughout the world.

• Ceramic Crowns (1 day crowns)

• Oral Surgery (implants)

• Cosmetic • Orthodontics (SureSmile) • Family Dentistry

• Sleep Apnea Testing and Appliances

• In-house Insurance Benefit Program

• Now offering Botox

108 Chieftain St. • P.O. Box 159 • Osceola, WI 715-294-2202 • Fax: 715-294-9995 www.haugedentalcare.com

human in our house. He plays games with Peter and gets snacks several times a day. He talks a lot and has two people who listen to whatever he has to say, even if it is just his regular announcement of when he is going to have a bowel movement—which I’m sure is newsworthy as far as he is concerned.

“Meow! Meow!” he announces, before and after the big event.

“That’s wonderful,” I assure him. “Well done!” (I seriously doubt he would have had this quality of attention competing with 11 dogs).

Today, we are “up north” visiting my parents, and Felix is with us. Katie, my parents’ cat, does not care for Felix at all. Katie is annoyed with the casual nonchalance Felix exhibits wherever he is—the sense that he owns whatever home he is in and deserves whatever treats come his way.

Felix plays with Katie’s toys, sleeps in her bed and eats up whatever snacks she may have left in her bowl. He watches the gray squirrels outside and sleeps on my mother’s chair every time she carelessly vacates it. Felix is very much at home.

And it is good to be at home with Felix—wherever he is. I think he has lessons to teach me—as all animals do.

He has shown me that where we start may have very little to do with where we end up. He has shown me that it’s possible to feel comfortable and enjoy even the most radical change in circumstances. He has shown me that life is full of surprises and it’s the way we react that usually determines how good or bad this change might be.

And he’s shown me that everything can be enjoyable, if viewed from the right perspective. Even if it’s just a trip to the bathroom.

Till next time,

Carrie

To see photos, check out CarrieClassonAuthor on Facebook or visit CarrieClasson.com.

He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.

Carter was the author of 32 books, and he and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center in Atlanta, Ga.

President Carter decided to spend his remaining time at his home with his family and receive hospice care. At the age of 100, he was the longest-lived president in U.S. history.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

ANDERSON: The little things

FROM PAGE 4

in the middle of clearing our driveway. But that melted away seeing that simple moment come full circle from childhood to fatherhood. It’s hard to believe that I used be terrified of being a father. But moments like that remind me that I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

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

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 EversInfo@wisconsin.gov • www.evers.wis.gov

Rep. Duke Tucker 75th Assembly District P.O. Box 8953 • Madison, WI 53708-8953 (608) 237-9175 or 1-888-534-0075

Rep.Tucker@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 Dr. Janae Momchilovich

POLK COUNTY COURT NEWS

Operating a motor vehicle without insurance

• Dustin Paje, 25, Eau Claire, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

• Cavishaw R. Swanstromstage, 22, Centuria, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

• Rachel J. Tacheny, 45, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

Operating a motor vehicle without proof of insurance

• Martin J. Bisonette, 38, Roberts, pled no contest and was fined $10.

• Dillon M. King, 18, Frederic, pled no contest and was fined $10.

• Ashley E. Lundberg, 42, Hopkins, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $10.

• Steven F. Sturm, 30, Luck, pled no contest and was fined $10.

• Michael J. Waddick, 66, Minneapolis, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $10.

Operating while revoked

• Elly A. Thompson, 27, Shafer, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

Operating while suspended

• Tyler J. Kauffman, 23, St. Croix Falls, pled no contest and was fined $200.50.

OWI

• Craig J. Lilly, 35,

Center City, Minn., pled no contest and had DOT license revoked for 7 months, ignition interlock device for 1 year and was fined $1,037.50.

Possess open intoxicants in motor vehicle- driver

• Elvin H. Olivo Torres, 40, Somerset, pled no contest and was fined $263.50.

Possession of THC

• Chevy M. Caron, 23, Taylors Falls, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.

• Stephen F. Holden, 56, Centuria, pled no contest and was fined $368.

• James M. Jacobs Hanson, 22, Luck, pled no contest and was fined $368.

• Tanner J. Roth, 23, Forest Lake, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.

• Marquis D. Zelle, 30, Minneapolis, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $368.

Shoreland zoning violation

• Alisa Huss, Luck, pled no contest and was fined $389.50.

Speeding on city highway

• Lesly C. Lopez, 27, Hudson, pled no contest and was fined $175.30.

• Nicholas L. Moore, 40, Harris, Minn., pled no contest and was fined $175.30.

TOWN: Website upgrade

FROM PAGE 1

To compare cost and services, Town Treasurer Jan Carlson contacted the town’s IT service, Connecting Point, to receive an additional quote for a similar website.

“It would cost like a thousand dollars to set up and create a new website because of the content that’s on there,” said Carlson. “So, they would just copy the information on there, set it up and create a new one and then we would have a yearly cost of them hosting the site of $600 and they would do the upgrades, any upgrades within our current computer contracts that we have.

“Then all of our technology stuff is with Connecting Point. I know we’ve had problems with our website getting things uploaded... So maybe that might be a way we want to go is have Connecting Point create the website and then just pay that yearly fee of $600. We have yearly costs with Jolene plus her trying to do these upgrades. The other advantage of having Connecting Point, if we have problems is they’re local. You can get a hold of them

Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

and documentaries, you’ll find inspiration and tools to learn more about his enduring vision for equality. What do you want to do with your life?

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

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

pretty easily and they respond fairly fast… The one thing though is Jolene wants to start this conversion. She wanted to do it like last week. So, do we pay Jolene to do it, or do we switch to Connecting Point?

“Or could we revisit it in a year?” Pratt asked. “Will this last like the current websites?” asked Town Board Chair Dale Lindh. “Is it going to fall apart though?”

“It might,” Pratt responded. “With the updates, it’s been harder and harder. I have to re-log in multiple times for it to work. As we experienced in that December meeting, it inversed the order of all my PDFs that I had uploaded and when I selected one it was from 2008 or something like that. So, I feel like it’s beneficial both ways. Yes, we can work with Connecting Point, but Jolene has been fairly responsive with every inquiry I’ve had.”

After discussion, the board ultimately chose to stay with B Hot Marketing to provide the necessary updates to the Town Board website for a flat migration fee of $412.77. The board unanimously approved the motion.

This week, we honor the 96th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a towering figure in the fight for civil rights and social justice, born on January 15, 1929. Dr. King achieved remarkable milestones during his brief yet impactful life, including at least fifty honorary degrees from institutions across the nation. In 1964, he became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his leadership in nonviolent resistance to racial injustice. King’s dedication to human rights earned him the American Liberties Medallion from the American Jewish Committee in 1965, and in 1967, he traveled to the UK to receive an honorary degree from Newcastle University—the first African American to receive this distinction. Dr. King’s influence continues. In 1971, King awarded a Grammy for Best Spoken Word Recording for “Why I Oppose the War in Vietnam,” and in 1977, President Jimmy Carter posthumously bestowed upon him the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Your library offers a wealth of resources to explore King’s life, his work, and the broader struggle for social justice. From books and audiobooks to eBooks

As Dr. King said, “The time is always right to do what is right.” Visit your library today—your curiosity and free library card are all you need to begin.

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

Estate of Donald H. Wilson to Shawna J. Engstrand, 72 130th St., in the Town of Alden.

Nicholas and Shawna Engstrand to Nicholas and Shawna Engstrand, 72 130th St., in the Town of Alden.

Kim and Robin Hanson to Jeff Emerson, 1834 23rd Ave., in the Town of Alden.

RPMLT 2014-1 Trust and Trustee Wilmongton Savings Fund Society

FSB to Charles D. Larson, 428 180th St., in the Town of Alden.

Estate of Gwendolyn K. Johnson to Trustee Troy L. Johnson, Trustee

Kimberley A. Palmsteen and the Gwendolyn K. Johnson Living Trust, 134 202nd St. County Rd. M and 171 192nd St., in the Town of Alden. Amery

Gregory M. Crawford to Katharine A. Slanina, 504 Wisconsin Ave., in the City of Amery.

John L. Peterson to Thomas R. Patterson, 348 Hillcrest Dr., in the City of Amery. Apple River

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, through Feb. 19 at 10:15 a.m. 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 from the St Croix Valley Foundation and the Horst Rechelbacher Foundation

Denis and Janice Carteron to Jason McKenzie, 1167 134th Ave., in the Town of Apple River.

Estate of Kyle L. Prentice to Debra K. Jotham and Debra K. Prentice, 1643 S White Ash Ln., in the Town of Apple River.

Debra K. Prentice to Leah L. Prentice, 1643 S White Ash Ln., in the Town of Apple River.

Estate of Albert J. Cebery, Sr. to Albert J. Cebery, Jr., 2 parcels, in the Town of Apple River.

Andrew T. Trezek to Ashton Snow, 1 parcel, in the Town of Apple River.

Estate of Morgan K. Nelson, Sr. to Karen E. Nelson, 1726 108th St. County Rd. I, in the Town of Apple River.

Timothy D. Johnson to Bailey A. Dunnom, 1727 A S Balsam Lake Ct., in the Town of Apple River.

Surveyor Michael L. Markee and Sunrise Land Surveying LLC to Agent Gerald Pearson and Pearson Family Trust, 810 165th Ave., in the Town of Apple River.

Balsam Lake

Brian and Donna Esch to Trustees Brian

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 through 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.

and Donna Esch, Brian Esch Trust, Donna Esch Trust and the Brian and Donna Esch Trust, 1270 172nd Ave., in the Town of Balsam Lake.

WI DOT to Charles F. Hoikka and Orville E. Peterson, 411 Main St., in the Village of Balsam Lake.

Ann M. Hill-Perez and Marcos T. Perez to Anthony and Kristine Cronick, 2 parcels, in the Town of Balsam Lake.

Anthony Cronick to Anthony and Kristine Cronick, 1294 150th Ave., in the Town of Balsam Lake.

Beaver

Surveyor Joseph W. Granberg to the public, 2 parcels, in the Town of Beaver.

Black Brook

Lori and Thomas Levendoski to Delores Levendoski and the Estate of Harold J. Levendoski, 4 parcels, in the Town of Black Brook.

Centuria

Centuria DG LLC and Agent Danielle E. Yance to DGB Buyer One (WI) LLC, 912 State Hwy 35, in the Village of Centuria.

President John Fraley and Homes by Croix Creek Inc. to David Gilbertson, 1 parcel, in the Village of Centuria.

David and Holly Olson to Kelly J. Macneil, 801 Quist St., in the Village of Centuria.

Clayton Jerome and Tonya Gale to Jerome and Tanya Gale, the Life Estate of Colette M. Gale and the Life Estate of Robert E. Gale, 159 70th Ave., in the Town of Clayton. Sarah K. Schmidt to Trustees Patricia and Wayne Sullwold and the Wayne A. and Patricia M. Sullwold Living Trust, 765 US Hwy 63, in the Town of Clayton. Clear Lake Beth and Wesley Nelson to Justin and Lendra Miller, 1 parcel, in the Town of Clear Lake. Members Jeffrey and Michael Curtis, Member Rebecca L. Curtis-Waalen and Curtis Ventures LLC to Jacob and Mariah Peterson, 376 Golf Dr., in the Village of Clear Lake.

SEE LAND, PAGE 9

WEEKLY MEDITATION

Rebecca Dufresne

Rebecca “Becky” Dufresne went home to be with the Lord on Dec. 27, 2024.

Becky was born July 30, 1959, to William and Jean Westphal in Stillwater, Minn. She was the second of four children. Becky enjoyed school and graduated from Stillwater High School. Then she went to work at the Washington County Abstract Office.

Becky met and married Craig Dufresne in 1981 and they happily welcomed their daughters, Rachel and Sarah, into the family a few years later. They settled in Amery for the girls to grow up.

Becky loved being a mother and spent several years at home with the girls while also doing daycare for families in the community. When Becky’s daughters were in school, she started working for Polk County in their Land Information department. She enjoyed volunteering and supporting all the activities Rachel and Sarah were involved with including Sunday School at St. Joseph Catholic Church, summers volunteering at Kamp Kimchee, and marching alongside the Amery marching bands as a “Band-Aid.” Becky enjoyed reading, cooking, crocheting, camping, and taking walks with the family and their cockapoos. After Rachel and Sarah graduated college, she moved to Somerset and remained there until her passing. Most of all, Becky loved spending time with her family and enjoyed being a grandmother to her six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Jean Westphal and parents-in-law, Vernon and Betty Dufresne.

She is survived by her daughters, Rachel (Ryan) Witthoft, Sarah (Tyler) Stevens and Craig Dufresne, the love of her life. She was loved by all six of her granddaughters, Reesa, Ruby, Rosa, Eva, Raya, and Remi. She is also survived by her siblings David (Guadalupe) Westphal, Richard (Sue) Westphal, Brenda Koller, and Nicole (Maurice) Calvendra, along with her nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Jan. 31 at 10 a.m. at St. Anne Catholic Church in Somerset. Visitation will be held one hour prior to Mass in the church’s Beaudette Center. Following the funeral, all are invited to a luncheon in the church basement. In lieu of flowers please donate to St. Anne Catholic Church or St. Anne Catholic School in Becky’s honor. www.cullencreafuneralhome.com

CHURCH LISTINGS

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

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

BY MARK BARLOW GRACE CHURCH

The book of Hebrews is named for its recipients, the Hebrews, or the Jews. This is obvious when you read Hebrews and see all the references to the Old Testament and all the usage of Old Testament systems of sacrifice and the law, as well as the priesthood. The reason that Hebrews is so Old Testament oriented is because the author’s main objective is to communicate that in light of all that the Old Testament teaches, Jesus is the fulfillment of these things and Jesus is better than all these things. He is better than the fathers, better than the prophets, better than Moses, better than Joshua, better than Melchizedek, a better high priest, better than the temple, and better than the sacrifices of the law. One thing that is made clear throughout Hebrews is that Jesus is also better than our sin, or greater than our sin, or more specifically, victorious over our sin.

So, how did Jesus conquer our sin? He endured. He endured the temptations to sin by not succumbing to its power, as Hebrews 4:15 says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Jesus was tempted just as you are tempted. There are no temptations to sin that you have experienced that our Lord has not also faced. Some of your temptations may come in different vehicles than a first century man would have faced, but at the root of every temptation is a particular sin that Jesus faced in some way. Jesus didn’t have an iPhone that tempted him to be lazy and avoid his responsibilities by spending hours scrolling Facebook or TikTok. But he was tempted with laziness in other ways. So, the vehicle of temptation may

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

change over time, but the root temptation to sin never changes. As Ecclessiasties 1:9 says, “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.” Even though the form of things change as the world changes, progresses, and new things are created and discovered, at the root, all things are the same because all sins are the same, they are just dressed differently in different cultures, times, and seasons. So, Jesus faced all the same temptations you have faced or will face, yet he endured those temptations without sin.

It was Jesus’ endurance that earned him eternal joy in the presence of God. Hebrews 12:2 tells us to look to Jesus, “who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.” Though Jesus’ faithful endurance of hardship and suffering, he, v.2, “Is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Jesus’ faithful endurance earned him a seat that is one of honor, reward, and glory. Not only is the right hand seat one of glory and prestige, but it is a seat. Meaning, Jesus is seated, not working in this flesh on earth, but resting in eternity. He no longer has to endure, as the reward for a faithful life of endurance is an eternity of rest from such hardships and suffering.

In light of what Jesus has done as our example, the author of Hebrews then tells us in the next verses, in Hebrews 12:3-4, “Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.” There is a comparison being revealed here. We are being commanded to look to Jesus in v.2, and here in v.3 we are being commanded to consider him. The Greek word for consider means analyze. Looking

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

to Jesus and considering Jesus doesn’t just mean thinking about Jesus, it means scrutinizing and examine and thoroughly inspecting his life, his way of living, his struggles, his temptations, and how he dealt with them, how he overcame them, how he conquered them, and specifically this text is telling us to examine how he endured those temptations.

The comparison is being made between your life and Jesus’ life. We are being told to consider our temptation to sin and how we handle it, and compare it to how Jesus was tempted and how he handled it, or how he endured it. Essentially, compare your ways of enduring temptation to Jesus’ way of enduring temptation. Jesus endured temptation until the temptation was gone. He endured temptation completely, totally, and all the way through until the end. When we are tempted, we have the life of Christ, the endurance of Christ, and the victory of Christ over those temptations, but we do not always endure them. Sometimes we give in to temptation instead of enduring temptation so that we can alleviate ourselves of the burden of endurance. Endurance is hard. It’s much like running a marathon, and though finishing the race will give you praise, glory, and a reward, it is hard to finish, and so you give up, stop running, and don’t finish the race. That is much like enduring temptation. It is hard to endure to the end, and when we don’t, we give up the reward for faithfulness. But unlike us, Christ finished the race. He finished every race of temptation he faced, and he endured every hardship until it was over, even when that endurance led to his death.

The one hardship Jesus endured specifically in this text is the suffering he faced in the hostility of people against him.

SEE XMEDITATION, PAGE 8

and

If you would like to be a church page sponsor please call 715-294-2314. These Church listings are

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

William Thomas Patten Jr.

William Thomas Patten Jr., a long time member of the Osceola Methodist Church, died peacefully at his home on Jan. 7, 2025. He was 106. Bill was born in Kansas City, Mo., on June 14, 1918, to William T. Patten Sr. and Mabel Sheehan Patten. Bill graduated from William Chrisman High School in Kansas City in 1935 and went on to earn a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Findley College in 1941. After graduation, he went to work for Beech Aircraft. He was married to Pearl Guinn Miller on October 11, 1941. After World War II started, Bill enlisted in the Army Air Corps and entered flight training graduating as a 2nd Lieutenant. He was stationed in southern Italy and flew over 30 missions as a B-17 pilot in the European theater of operations. During the war, Bill and Pearl’s first daughter, Cheryl Gwynne, was born on June 3, 1944.

After the war, Bill took a position with Butler Mfg, Co. in Kansas City as a sales engineer and rose to be Sales Manager of their equipment

division moving to Minneapolis in 1958. A second daughter, Lisa Anne, was born on March 21, 1959. When Penske Inc. acquired the transportation division of Butler, Bill became the Senior Vice President until his retirement in 1982. In retirement, Bill and Pearl moved to Deer Lake at St. Croix Falls and later to Osceola.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Pearl, in 2011; sisters, Virginia and Athalyn; great-grandson, Ethan Tucker; and great-granddaughter, Isabella Tucker.

He is survived by daughter Cheryl Gwynne Goodin (Wayne) of Republic, Mo.; Lisa Anne Johnson (Steve) of Stockholm, Wis.; five grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank Bill’s care givers Eve Bjork, Kim Bauer, Kim Iwasco, and Lakeview Hospice for their compassionate and loving care during Bill’s final days.

Funeral services for Bill were Jan. 13 at United Methodist Church in Osceola. Burial was Jan. 14 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minn., with honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial preferred to Osceola United Methodist Church, PO Box 477, Osceola, WI 54020 or to Lakeview Hospice, 5803 Neal Ave N, Oak Park Heights, MN 55082.

Arrangements with Grandstrand Funeral Home of Osceola. Condolences can be expressen online at www.grandstrandfh.com.

Perspectives on mentoring: from a parent and a mentor

A Parent’s Perspective by Monica Weaver, Amery

We learned about Kinship when our family was going through difficult times and both my boys needed a trustworthy, kind, and confident man figure in their lives.  Brandon was soon matched with Dale and Kate Koehler.  Kinship really took the time to find the right match for my sons.  Dale and Kate have built Brandon’s trust by consistently visiting with him every other week.  Brandon loves the visits.  Most times they eat supper together and play board games, which is right up Brandon’s alley.  They go to movies and also have gone to the sculpture park.  Not only are these activities that my son enjoys but he loves the one-on-one time specifically with people that enjoy spending time with him too.

Justin was having the hardest time trusting any man, near him or near me when he

first Kevin and Jessica Smith.  I don’t think we could have a better match.  Kevin is upbeat, sincere, and most of all took his time earning Justin’s trust.  Kevin has shown him that there are good men out there that genuinely care for him.  Kevin and Justin try to see each other each week.  Sometimes they go golfing, go to football games, baseball games and more.  Justin has really regained respect for men again with the great help of Kevin.  Jessica has been a great help with his math classes and has helped him feel very confident in his abilities now.  His teachers report great math skills.

Having this kinship program for my sons has been awesome. They come home full of confidence and so happy after each visit.  My boys deserve that joy. Thank you so much for all that volunteer in this wonderful program, you mean so much to our

family.

A Mentor’s Perspective by Andie Ramsdell, St. Croix Falls

What no one told me about being a mentor is how much the relationship would enrich my life. Every week I get to spend a few hours with Iliana, and I am the better for it.

While we have the occasional special outing, most weeks we spend our time at the house making dinner together, playing games, and chatting about the book of the week she’s reading in school. She usually beats me at the board game “Life,” we split pretty evenly for who wins at “Uno,” and I’m convinced “Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza” is the worst card game ever invented.

Our art projects are my favorite. Something about sitting at the table making our loved ones’ cards or painting pictures naturally facilitates some of the sweetest and the funniest conversations between us. Later I find myself repeating to my family and friends her witty quips or one of her many keen obser-

vations that made me laugh out loud that week.

Lately I’ve been telling them how much growing up she’s doing in fifth grade. Proof of that can be seen by scrolling through my phone photos, but more noticeable in the way she’s getting better at frosting cupcakes, the way she’s gaining new interests while others fall aside, the way she expresses and processes the world around her.

Being a part of Iliana’s world enriches mine so much. The perspective she brings. The fun she brings. I didn’t expect a few hours a week would come to mean so much.

Note: Kinship is hosting two Online informational meetings on Jan. 30 (12 p.m. and 6 p.m.) for anyone who would like to learn more about being a mentor.

To register, email shara.polkkinship@ gmail.com. You can also visit www.polkkinship.org for more information or call 715.405.3900.

WEEKLY MEDITATION

FROM PAGE 6

This hostility from others led to his death, or as Hebrews 12:4 says, the shedding of his blood, which is Old Testament imagery for death. Jesus endured the temptation to avoid his death by remaining faithful to God in spite of the fact that people were going to unjustly murder him. The author of Hebrews is telling us to compare how we endure lesser temptations compared to how Jesus endured a much harder temptation. Even if others in this world have faced death for their devotion to God, none of them have ever been faced with that death while remaining completely holy and righteous. Therefore, no one other than Jesus has ever faced such a great temptation to avoid death because only Jesus faced death that was as unjustified as his. Though Stephen was killed for his faith in Christ, he was not perfect as Christ is perfect, and thus, his temptation was not as great since the injustice was not as severe as that of killing the perfect Son of God.

So, we have this great example from Jesus, that it is possible to endure temptation even to the point of death. That is how the author of Hebrews is encouraging us. He is commanding us to compare our suffering of having to endure temptation to that of Jesus enduring suffering and temptation. And the reminder here is that we are to endure all the way through. We are to endure until the end. We are to endure until we die. And when we consider Jesus’ endurance, Hebrews 12:3 says that it will keep us from growing weary or fainthearted. Meaning, the endurance of Jesus is ours to possess, and when we walk in his Spirit, we will have his endurance to continue without giving up or growing weary.

This life is a race, and it is one in which we are commanded to run it faithfully. Faithful endurance is endurance that does not quit. You are not promised many of the blessings that God graciously gives you in this life. You are not promised financial prosperity, nor physical health, nor many of the other blessings that God often provides for us. Many of his blessings are not promised, but some are. The blessings we are promised are often hard in this life, but gloriously rewarding in eternity. For example, one blessing we are promised is persecution and suffering. In Matthew 5:10, Jesus said, “Blessed are those

who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus then doubles down and repeats this in the next verse by comparing us to him. If they persecuted our Lord, then they will also persecute his followers. So, persecution and suffering are a blessing, but are they promised?

In 2 Timothy 3:12, Paul writes, “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” This is a promise to Jesus’ followers, and it is also a blessing. In Romans 8:17, Paul says that we are fellow heirs with Christ “provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” So, suffering is also a promise and a blessing. Many of the promises and blessings in this life do not make this life easier, but harder. And though they are hard, they are hard because they are glorious and they garner eternal reward for us in the presence of God where joy and pleasure are unimaginably indescribable.

That is why we endure, because the reward for our faithful endurance in Christ is the work of Christ being manifested through us, so that we can join in his reward that he earned for us. When we endure, it is Christ in us who is displaying his endurance through us, as Paul says in Colossians 2:20. Hebrews 12:3-4 is encouraging us to endure until the end, to face temptation without alleviating ourselves too soon from that temptation so that we endure all the way through. If we abandon the endurance and give into the temptation, then we are not enduring the point of shedding our blood. Rather, we are being told that the follower of Jesus must remain faithful to Christ, even in the worst of temptations or the worst of situations, even if it leads to our death.  So, we are given Jesus as our example of faithful endurance. It is endurance that remains faithful to God even when death is presented. The reward for your endurance is eternally satisfying because the reward has already been earned by Christ. He has already suffered the most, so any subsequent suffering we face is just Christ displaying his endurance in you, so that you can share with him in his reward. Endure, it is worth it. And look to Christ, he is your endurance. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).

FROM PAGE 6

Lori and Thomas Levendoski to Delores Levendoski and the Estate of Harold J. Levendoski, 12 parcels, in the Town of Clear Lake.

Personal Rep. Cynthia A. Miller and the Estate of Edwin J. Richmeier to Anthony Richmeier, 6 parcels, in the Town of Clear Lake.

Eureka

Wagner Surveying Associates Inc. and Mark E. Krause to Brian and Ruth Matson, 2019 180th Ave., in the Town of Eureka.

Affiant Leah E. Boeve and Naomi J. McLean to John R. McLean, 2 parcels, in the Town of Eureka.

Farmington

Gregory and Suzette Rivard, and Colleen, Gregory, Kristi and Suzette Swanson to Brian and Kathy Swanson, 1 parcel, in the Town of Farmington.

Frederic

Taylor Vernali to EZST500 LLC, 504 Wisconsin Ave N, in the Village of Frederic.

Garfield

Estate of James N. Larson, PR Larry L. Larson and PR Eileen A. Vierow to Bruce and Kristine Siltberg, 998 State Hwy 65, in the Town of Garfield.

Larry L. Larson to the public, 998 State Hwy 65, in the Town of Garfield.

Keith and Laurel Fermanich to Trustees Keith and Laurel Fermanich and the Fermanich Cabin Trust, 1 parcel, in the Town of Garfield.

Georgetown

Robert and Susan St. John to Trustees David and Lisa

Olson, Trustee Susan K. St. John and the Robert L. St.

John and Susan K. St. John Revocable Living Trust, +2152 W Bone Lake Pt, in the Town of Georgetown.

Rose M. Schoeder to Trustee Rose M. Schoeder and the Rose M. Schoeder Revocable Trust, 2075 68th St., in the Town of Georgetown.

Estate of Eugene J. Ince to Bryan, Darryl, Marc, Marty and Michael Ince and Debra Peterson, 946 230th Ave. and 1 other parcel in the Town of Georgetown.

Rose M. Schoeder to Trustee Rose M. Schoeder and the Rose. M. Schoeder Revocable Trust, 2063 68th St., in the Town of Georgetown.

Christine Hambuch to Stephen P. Boyle, Linda A. Creps and Kathleen Van Thiel, 786 194th Ave., in the Town of Georgetown.

David Van Thiel to Stephen P. Boyle, Linda A. Creps and Kathleen Van Thiel, 786 194th Ave., in the Town of Georgetown.

Kathleen Van Thiel to Stephen P. Boyle, Linda A. Creps and Kathleen Van Thiel, 786 194th Ave., in the Town of Georgetown.

Bryan, Darryl, Marc, Marty and Michael Ince and Debra Peterson to Marty and Tamara Ince, 2286 98th St., 946 230th Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Georgetown.

Marty and Tamara Ince to Carly Ince, 2286 98th St., 946 230th Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Georgetown.

Diamond Hex Surveying and Surveyor Carl W. Hetfeld to Marty and Tamara Ince, 2286

98th St., 946 230th Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Georgetown.

Johnstown

Demil K. Richter to Todd R. Richter, 123 210th Ave., in the Town of Johnstown.

Wayne E. Karls to Gail and George Odenbreit, 1 parcel, in the Town of Johnstown.

Laketown

Estate of Ann B. Stubbe and Affiant Wayne H. Stubbe to Wayne H. Stubbe, 2476 204th St., in the Town of Laketown.

Crystal R. Kruse to Jason and Tara Kruse and Dottie K. Woodruff, 2852 200th St., in the Town of Laketown.

Lincoln

Jennifer and Terry Hansen to Mark and Victoria Gluege, 823 68th Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of Lincoln.

Jacob and Stacy Ulrich to Jacob B. Ulrich Revocable Living Trust, Stacy M. Ulrich Revocable Living Trust and the Jacob B. and Stacy M. Ulrich Ulrich Revocable Living Trust, 706 Bear Trap Ln., in the Town of Lincoln.

Stephanie A. O’Keefe to Stephanie O. Family Trust, 771 115th St. County Rd. C, in the Town of Lincoln.

Luck

Allen and Jennifer Nelson to Kathleen M. Manning, 1 parcel, in the Town of Luck.

Dana Paulsen to Annette and Kurt Graumann, 1519 240th Ave., in the Town of Luck.

Milltown

Patricia A. Nelson and Glenn E. Owen to Chloe and Micah Schrock, 498 Stokely Rd. N, in the Village of Milltown.

Charles J. Turner to Trustee Jeffrey T. Turner and the Turner Family Trust Two, 1763 180th Ave. and 3 other parcels, in the Town of Milltown.

Charles J. Turner to Trustee Jeffrey T. Turner and the Turner Family Trust Three, 4 parcels, in the Town of Milltown.

Estate of Charles F. Arndt to Mary Jo A. Arndt, 1628 230th Ave., in the Town of Milltown.

Trustees Benny and Joyce Patterson, Benny J. Patterson Trust, Joyce M. Patterson Trust and the Benny J. Patterson and Joyce M. Patterson Trust to Trustees Jolene and Michael Patterson and The Michael and Jolene Revocable Living Trust, 1877 A 138th St., in the Town of Milltown.

Daniel and Deborah Mallin to Alison and Jeffrey Hardy, 1431 A 188th Ave., in the Town of Milltown.

Osceola

Mark and Shelley McShannon to Kathryn Benson Paskvan, 638 3rd Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Village of Osceola.

Member Steve Haas and Haas Sons Properties LLC to Darrel, Gary, Philip and Steven Haas, 1 parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Darrel, Gary, Philip and Steven Haas to SPD LLC, 1 parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Members Anthony and Daniel Cabreana, Cabreana Construction LLC and River Valley Homes LLC FKA to Renova Homes LLC, 1 parcel, in the Town of Osceola.

Alexus and Tyler Maxwell to Josslin M. Belisle and Isaac

S. Campeau, 502 Gerald St., in the Village of Osceola.

Angela L. Helgeson-McCarthy and Elliot McCarthy to Andrew Epperson and Kelsi Hinkle, 200 Spring St., in the Village of Osceola.

Michele Kompelien and Jack and Michele White to Alexus and Tyler Maxwell, 601 Kreekview Dr., in the Village of Osceola.

Susan K. Gillingham to Brian R. Gillingham, 2195 84th Ave., in the Town of Osceola. Brian R. Gillingham to Joyce and Mark Biller, 2195 84th Ave., in the Town of Osceola. St. Croix Falls

Nancy and Ricky Johnson to Cassandra, Melissa and Nicholas Johnson, 1825 170th Ave. and 1 other parcel, in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

Member Pamela T. Eibs and Eibs Industrial LLC to 605 Industrial Ventures LLC, 605 Industrial Pkwy., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Michael and Stephanie Mysicka to Alexander and Avery Mysicka, 410 N Day Rd., in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Stephanie J. Mysicka to Alexander, Avery and Michael Mysicka, 301 S Roosevelt St. and 1 other parcel, in the City of St. Croix Falls.

Jessica L. Bos and Shane M. Jones to Alexis J. Urhammer, 1828 150th Ave., in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

Alexis and Mikal Urhammer to Alexis and Mikal Urhammer, 1828 150th Ave., in the Town of St. Croix Falls.

Now that we have your attention - SMC Ltd in Amery has immediate openings for Production workers. Our crews work 12 hour shifts

2-2-3 schedule and night crews now have a new increased shift differential of 20%! That’s right - 20% of your hourly wage just for working a night shift. SMC Ltd offers an excellent benefits package, competitive wages, 401k match, generous PTO and much more.

OPEN POSITION

Production/Assembly Operator

Key Accountabilities/ Essential Functions:

• Assembly of medical devices or sub-assemblies

• Responsible for reading, understanding, and precisely following work instructions

Use hand and power assembly tools and fixtures

• Load, unload, or organize materials and product

• Inspect parts and report defective materials to supervisor

• Regular attendance Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent required

• Read, write, and communicate in English

• Ability to follow and understand GMP - Good Manufacturing Practices

• Good counting skills and must be very accurate with all documentation

• Well groomed and able to work in a Clean Room Environment

• Must work well in a team environment

Submit your application at hr@smcltd.com or www.smcltd.com/careers

Chiefs cruise to victory over Somerset

The Osceola wrestling team had an action-packed week, competing against Somerset and St. Croix Central in a conference triangular Jan. 9, followed by the Freedom Irish Invitational two days later. A split decision Against St. Croix Central, the Chieftains struggled, falling 5124. Logan Meyer (144 pounds), Isaac Dunnom (157), and Wyatt Hastings (165) all recorded pints, with Hastings pinning Jayden Stave in 2 minutes, 49 seconds. Cody Meyer earned a

Ulrich’s

double-double helps OHS

cruise to victory over Unity

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

The Osceola girls basketball team forced Unity into 27 turnovers, highlighting its 50-27 victory over Unity Jan. 6.

“This was a game where we able to use our defensive pressure to get steals,” said OHS coach Mike Haase. “By generating steals, we capitalized with some transition baskets.”

Five Chieftains had at least two steals to finish with 17 total. Kya Krenz was the team leader with four, followed by Ayla Krenz and Maddie Newton with three each.

Four OHS players scored between eight and 11 points, led by Lauren Ulrich’s 11. She also finished with 13 rebounds.

“It was her first double-double, including seven offensive rebounds,” Haase added.

Izzy Ellefson posted nine points, while Josie Mork and Maddie Newton scored eight each.

“The balanced scoring shows how well this team plays together; everyone works together very well,” Haase continued.

Osceola shot 34.6 percent from the field overall compared to Unity’s 25.8. The Chieftains also outscored the Eagles by 14 points in the paint. OHS outrebounded Unity by 10 and has seven more assists.

Addison McElhone recorded 13 points for Unity, along with eight rebounds.

B-W 44, OSCEOLA 23

The Blackhawks outrebounded Osceola by 13 as they pulled away in the second half to win the Jan. 9 game.

“Baldwin-Woodville’s size just makes it hard to score around

The latest and the greatest

I’m a sucker for buying too many things to use for ice fishing. When I look at all the stuff I already have I have to ask myself that same old question. “Do I really need more stuff?”

I posed this same question to an angler who can out fish me and I’ve only run into three that I give that title to. Being 74, I have years of experience on the water. I was a guide and worked in fisheries research for the DNR so I have a good base of knowledge that usually puts fish on the end of my line. Then there is Ben Elfelt. He’s one of the three guys! I met Ben when I worked at Gander Mountain in Forest Lake. Ben worked there too but in firearms,

Free throw contest

The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest will be Jan. 26 at the Osceola High School gyn for all girls and boys ages 9 to 14. Registration begins at

and contest begins at 1:30 p.m.

Chieftains pick up two conference road wins

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

The Osceola boys basketball team earned its second road conference win in three days by defeating Baldwin-Woodville 60-53 Jan. 10.

the rim, so we had to rely on our three-point shooting in this game, and we had one of our better shooting nights, hitting 5-for-14 (35.7 percent) from three-point range,” Haase stated.

The problem for OHS is they shot 3-for-12 from inside the arc, while B-W went 13-for-28.

Hailey Cota led B-W with 10 points, while Maggie Jensen recorded eight.

Newton led Osceola (0-4 conference, 4-6 overall) with six points. Ellefson dished out three assists.

The Chieftains also committed 24 turnovers.

“I thought in the first half, especially, the girls did a great job playing team defense,” Haase explained. “…I was encouraged by our team even late in the game. They’re gritty and want to compete, even if they were trailing.”

though he often helped out in fishing. I asked Ben, who also has years of guiding under his belt to give me his idea about the latest and greatest and his thoughts on ice fishing.

“I used to really enjoy the experience of trying and buying new stuff. As a guide I learned to make things user friendly for clients. Ice fishing over the years I’ve found out as I got older it’s more about weight and taking too much stuff out on the ice. Packing and unpacking wastes time. It has to be conducive to the way I want to fish. If it doesn’t make my life easier I don’t want it or need it.”

A perfect example is the four stroke gas ice auger Ben bought five years ago. “When the new augers came out that run off a handheld power drill I bought one because it’s so small and light weight.

“We brought the right level of physicality on the defensive end to challenge them and make things difficult,” OHS coach Tyler Olson said. “Our ability to get multiple stops in a row on defense allowed us enough time to get things clicking offensively as the night went on.”

Hunter Bradway concluded his stellar week on the offensive end with 20 points and eight rebounds. Jonah Race finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Caleb Irlbeck recorded 14 points and seven rebounds, while Jake Bents tallied 11 points, four rebounds, and four assists.

Those were the only four Chieftains who scored all night.

Evan Clausen was the only Blackhawk in double figures, scoring 23 points. Thatcher Walthall scored nine, and Joe Jensen finished with eight.

B-W made three more three-pointers than Osceola, but the Chieftains had the difference at the free-throw line,

A LOOK AHEAD

going 13-for-22 compared to B-W’s 5-for-15. Osceola is now 3-1 in the conference and 4-5 overall.

“We knew heading into the week that it was an important juncture in our season,” Olson concluded. “To walk away from the week 3-0 with two big conference road wins was a great accomplishment. “

OSCEOLA 78, AMERY 69

OHS’ game plan was simple against Amery heading into the Jan. 7 game.

“Defensively, we did a nice job of making the Wollan brothers work hard for their points, and we were able to contain some of their role players for getting open looks,” Olson said. And it worked.

“This was a big win for our team, and one that we fought hard for,” Olson added. “We are looking forward to carrying the momentum forward.”

Carter and Keaton Wollan combined for 58 points, but it took them 50 shots to do it. The rest of the Warriors shot 3-for-15 from the field.

“I was impressed with our mindset and energy right from the top,” Olson continued.

Four Chieftains f

SEE OHS BBB, PAGE 15

THERESA MEYER

Osceola capitalized on seven forfeit wins against Somerset while scoring impressive falls from Malakai Barker (113-pictured), Keagan Berg (120), and Isaac Dunnom (157).

Folkestad, Wilson

combine for 39 points

The St. Croix Falls boys basketball team outscored Ashland by 12 in the second half to defeat the Oredockers 64-46 Jan. 7.

“We struggled at first against their 3-2 zone defense but made a few adjustments, and they did a great job covering inside and outside the paint,” SCF coach Chad Hall explained.

Caden Folkestad scored a team-high 21 points for the Saints, along with nine rebounds. Elliot Wilson recorded 18 points and 11 rebounds, and Anders Waterworth chipped in with nine points.

“Ashland put together several runs throughout the game, but our defense kept these runs minimal, and we converted on offense at key points as well,” Hall continued.

The Saints outrebounded Ashland by 12 and had five more steals.

Gavin Greene had a game-high 26 points for Ashland. He was the only Oredocker in double figures.

CUMBERLAND 61, ST. CROIX FALLS 48

Gavin Gores finished with 35 points and 16 rebounds as the Beavers pulled away in the second half to win the Jan. 10 game.

“It is always surprising when you see a 6’10’’ player in person,” Hall said. “We have seen Gores for the last four years, but you get a better appreciation for how big and good he is in person.”

Chayden Berghammer added 10 points, while Uriah Johnson pulled seven rebounds and dished out six assists.

“We played solid defense and really made them earn their points,” Hall added. “Offensively, we didn’t shoot well, especially late in the game.”

The Saints shot 17-for58 from the field overall, including 9-for-37 from three-point range.

Anders Waterworth led SCF with 14 points. Elliot Wilson chipped in with 13 points and nine rebounds.

Caden Folkestad finished with 12 points.

“Caden Folkestad fouled out late in the game, and that hurt us defensively and offensively,” Hall explained. “We had a few chances to get the lead down to a couple of possessions but went pretty cold from the field.”

The Saints now sit at 1-5 in conference play and 3-6 overall.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Saints pick up a pair of conference wins

The St. Croix Falls Saints girls’ basketball team played three games at home this past week, picking up conference wins against Cumberland and Spooner but falling short in their matchup against Prescott.

ST. CROIX FALLS 43, CUMBERLAND

38

Madi Johnson recorded a game-high 14 points with six rebounds and five steals, while Amber Bateman finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, and nine steals as the Saints won the Jan. 6 game.

“Amber and Madi worked hard in the game,” SCF coach Angie Maternowsky said.

Lexi Arneson hit three three-pointers to finish with nine points. SCF outrebounded Cumberland by two and had three more assists.

Kyleigh McLemore and Raegan Beecroft finished with 11 points each for the Beavers.

Macy Beecroft chipped in with 109. McLemore recorded six steals.

ST. CROIX FALLS 54, SPOONER 26

All eleven Saints played and scored in the Jan. 10 game led by Catherine Williams’ 14.

“Everyone was having a great night finding open shots,” Maternowsky said.

Lucy Braund added 10 points, as she went 3-for-3 from threepoint range. Lexi Arneson scored six points, along with six rebounds. Amber Bateman finished with 10 rebounds as Madi Johnson chipped in with seven. Ilie Jensen posted five steals.

The Saints jumped out to a 31-12 halftime lead and coasted in the second half. They also finished with 44 rebounds, 14 assists, and 14 steals.

PRESCOTT 52, ST. CROIX FALLS 29

Violet Otto was too much for the Saints in the Jan. 11 game. The junior scored a game-high

25 points on 8-for-16 shooting from the field.

Hannah Schommer added 10 points, while Rory Zuehlsdorf finished with five steals.

The Saints finished with 29 turnovers, 18 of which were Prescott steals.

The Cardinals shot 19-for-57 from the field, including 8-for-25 from the field.

Catherine Williams scored 14 points for St. Croix Falls, while Amber Bateman added eight. Madi Johnson pulled down nine rebounds as Lucy Braund chipped in with seven.

St. Croix Falls shot 12-for-43 from the field.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to watch the improvements of the girls in each game,” Maternowsky said.

The Saints are now 3-4 in the conference and 3-10 overall.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Saints boys, girls wrestlers win Cutler Classic

Thanks to six top-three finishes, the St. Croix Falls boys wrestling team earned the Cutler Classic Invitational Jan. 11 in New London.

“We had a lot of adversity to overcome having two starters out on the guys lineup with sickness going around,” SCF coach Joe Raygor explained. “The team did a nice job scoring many bonus points to overcome it and clinch a title on the guys side.”

Logan Bockman claimed the lone title, winning all three of his matches via pin at 285 pounds. His record is 24-2.

Kaiden Hahn (113), Carter Ridgeway (126), Isaac Briggs (144), and Chase Steffen (157) each took second. Hahn won both matches by technical fall as Ridgeway earned a decision and technical fall. Briggs earned a pin and a major decision, while Steffen finished with a pin, a decision, and a major

decision for their wins.

“Kaiden had an impressive win in the semifinals, defeating state qualifier Jacob Allickson from Campbellsport by technical fall,” Raygor added.

Jack Ryan (138) earned third thanks to three wins. Other Saints who placed were Joe Petherbridge (215) and Miles Kelly (120), each taking fourth.

The Saints finished with 227.5

SEE SAINTS, PAGE 14

WRESTLING: Chieftain wrestlers cruise to victory over Somerset

FROM PAGE 12

7-4 decision over Everett Knospe at 150 pounds, with Malakai Barker defeating Austin Voeltz 16-15 at 106 pounds.

The Chieftains rebounded against Somerset, delivering a commanding 60-24 win. Osceola capitalized on seven forfeit wins while scoring impressive falls from Malakai Barker (113), Keagan Berg (120), and Isaac Dunnom (157).

Freedom Irish Invitational

The Freedom Invite tested Osceola’s wrestlers against top-tier competition. Despite stiff challenges, several Chieftains left their mark, finishing

11th in the 16-team invitational with 94.5 points.

Elliot Havlish was the top-place finisher for OHS, taking second at 215 pounds. His only loss was to Freedom’s Henry Vander Heiden before rebounding with two pins to take second. His other two wins were also by pins to improve his record to 27-5.

Wyatt Hastings (165 pounds) took third thanks to three pins and a decision to run his record to 23-9 overall. His third-place match was a 10-8 decision over Slinger’s Max Gehring.

Talon Berg (138), Logan Meyer (144), and Isaac Dunnom (157) finished in fourth place. Berg’s three wins were by

SAINTS: St. Croix Falls wrestlers win Cutler Classic

FROM PAGE 13

points, and DePere took second at 188. Brillion was third at 175.5. Meanwhile, the girls also took home the team title with 144.5 points. Campbellsport was second at 60.5 ahead of

Berlin’s 55.

“Having both the men’s and women’s team win was a pretty cool moment for our community and shows the dedication these kids put in,” Raygor added.

SCF had two firsts courtesy of Rae Belleza (100) and Neveah Nwachukwu (145). Nwachukwu recorded a 16-1 technical fall over teammate Kyolie Miller for the title. She improved to 14-5 overall with the wins.

Taking second, along with Miller, was Autumn Steffen (165).

“Kylie Miller had a really exciting win beating No. 7 ranked Caylin Johnson from Waupaca,” Raygor concluded.

“She showed a lot of heart and was able to get her tired and beat her in the last period.”

Third place went to Julianna Johnson (114 and Leah Whatley (120), SCF 53, CHETEKWEYERHAEUSER/PRAIRIE FARM 21

technical fall, Meyer’s two wins were via pin and a decision, and Dunnom earned a pin and a decision.

Malakai Barker (106) claimed two victories, including a fall against Stevens Point’s Eldon Roth and a decision over Freedom’s Jackson Williams, to finish sixth.

Cody Meyer (150) earned three wins to take seventh, including a pin over Appleton North’s Damarcus Parks to clinch seventh.

Auburndale won the invitational with 173 points, followed by Evansville’s 170.5. Freedom took third at 165.5.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

The Saints boys started the conference dual with Chetek-Weyerhaesuer/ Prairie Farm with four wins to roll to the Jan. 9 dual win.

Pins were courtesy of Connor Weber (150 pounds), Drake Petersen (175), Griffin Marko (190), Joe Petherbridge (215), and Logan Bockman (285). Rae Belleza (106) and Carter Ridgeway (120) recorded forfeit wins, while Issac Briggs (144) posted a technical fall win.

“It was senior night, and it was great to honor the seniors and see them go out, give maximum effort, and lead by example,” Raygor said.

Raygor also highlighted Kaiden Hahn’s 113-pound win over Aaron Olson by a 6-0 score. Miles Kelly earned an 8-7 decision over Brock Gesler at 120 pounds.

“Kaiden was able to beat him in a few tough positions and win a gritty match,” Raygor explained.

OHS BBB: Two wins

FROM PAGE 12

inished in double figures, led by Hunter Bradway’s 26. He also added nine points, five assists, and four steals. Waylon Cole connected on four three-pointers to record 18 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. Caleb Irlbeck registered a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, along with four blocked shots. Jonah Race tossed in eight points.

Osceola was 9-for-27 from three-point range, while Amery went 4-for-22. The Chieftains also outrebounded Amery and had 11 more assists than the Warriors.

OSCEOLA 45, UNITY 35

The Chieftains started the week with a 10-point win over the Eagles Jan. 6.

“We created energy by increasing our defensive pressure, and our rebounding on both ends was also a strength,” Olson said. Hunter Bradway led OHS with 11 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Waylon Cole scored 10 points, four rebounds, three assists, and four steals. Jonah Race chipped in with eight points and 10 rebounds. Caleb Irlbeck contributed seven rebounds.

“Unity mixed their defenses up to deny and take away Caleb and Hunter in the first half, and it caused some hesitation on our part on how to attack it,” Olson explained. “I thought the way we responded the first 4-5 minutes out of halftime to build up our lead was the turning point.”

The Chieftains shot 16-for-52 from the field.

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

Somerset scores 15 goals in two wins

BY JASON SCHULTE SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

The Somerset boys’ hockey team started fast against Spooner Jan. 9, scoring four goals in the first period to highlight its 8-1 victory.

Eight Spartans scored goals: Marshall Haukom, Layne Pinska, Micaiah Schuld, Wyatt Olson, Dominic Warner, Breck Richardson, Vincent Henton, and Devin Richardson.

Haukom finished with three assists, with Breck Richardson, Devin Richardson, and Michael Linder posting two each. Somerset’s penalty

kill was outstanding as the Rails went 0-for-4. Olson’s goal in the third period was the lone power play for the Spartans. Somerset finished with 36 shots on goal compared to Spooner’s 22. Gunnar Anderson stopped 21 saves to earn his first win.

The Spartans are now 2-1 in the conference and 9-3 overall. They now have won seven of its last eight games.

SOMERSET 7, BLACK RIVER FALLS 2

It was another fast start for the Spartans, who scored three goals in the first period to rout

the Tigers Jan. 7. Marshall Haukom and Ryland Lathe each scored two goals, while Phillip Williams, Micaiah Schuld, and Josh Albert scored the other three. Haukom finished with two assists for a four-point night. Devin Richardson and Broden Thiel had three and two assists, respectively.

The Spartans finished with 42 shots on goal compared to Black River Falls’ 18. Simon Matthews recorded 16 saves to earn the win.

Lathe and Schuld each scored on the power play as Somerset finished 2-for-2.

Stars shine in three-game stretch

The Western Wisconsin Stars girls’ hockey team enjoyed a successful three-game run last week, showcasing offensive firepower against Hudson, Coulee Region, and Anoka. The Stars, now 2-1 in the conference and 6-9-1 overall, have won four games in a row after losing the previous six.

STARS 5, HUDSON 2

Ashley Jensen netted a hat trick in the second period, while Izzy Johnson added two goals and two assists in the Jan. 7 game. Gabby Thomsen recorded two assists. Despite 10 penalty minutes, the Stars’ penalty kill was perfect, stopping

Hudson’s five power-play attempts. Sierra Andert made 11 saves on 13 shots as the Stars outshot Hudson 31-13.

STARS 7, COULEE REGION 1

The Stars overwhelmed Coulee Region Jan. 9 thanks to Jensen’s hat trick, while Annika Olinski recorded two goals as Taylor Larson and Taryn O’Hara accounted for the other two. Gabby Thomsen, Sophia Johnson, and Izzy Johnson each had two assists. The Stars capitalized on two of three power plays while outshooting Coulee Region 53-15. Maggie Alberts stood tall, saving 14 of 15 shots on goal.

STARS 5, ANOKA 2

The Stars wrapped up their week with a hardfought 5-2 win against Anoka on Jan. 11. Izzy Johnson struck twice, with Charlotte Rea adding two goals. Chloe Julson also contributed the other goal.

Ashley Jensen finished with two assists, Sophia Johnson and Lily Alberts each adding one. Despite facing 40 shots, Sierra Andert made 38 saves to secure the victory. The Stars’ penalty kill again held strong, stopping three of four Anoka power plays.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Free fishing weekend

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting Free Fishing Weekend Jan. 18-19 to share the fun and excitement of winter fishing. During Free Fishing Weekend, anglers of all ages can wet a line in any Wisconsin waters open to fishing without a fishing license, trout stamp or salmon stamp.

All other 2024-2025 Hook and Line regulations including bag limits, size limits and species restrictions remain in effect. While most trout streams are open during the catchand-release season on Free Fishing Weekend, there are trout streams, spring ponds and lakes that are closed to fishing. Please review the trout regulations or check with your local biologist if you have

questions about specific waters. For trout streams that are open, only artificial lures are allowed, and anglers must release all trout caught.

If you plan to keep fish, review the DNR’s Safe Eating Guidelines to stay informed of potential consumption advisories impacting some waterbodies throughout the state.

Winter fishing reminders

Before any winter adventure, ice safety should be a primary consideration, as no ice is ever 100% safe.

Dress appropriately for the weather, and remember safety gear:

• Warm layers that are water-resistant

• Sturdy waterproof boots with spike-style creepers for traction

• Extra hat and gloves

• Rescue throw rope

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – MADISON

The following students were named to the fall semester Dean’s List. Osceola: Olivia See. St. Croix Falls: Morgan Marks, Owen McDonough, Alise Wiehl. Star Prairie: Allison Fogelberg. Fall semes-

ter Honor List. Osceola: Emma Stroshane.St. Croix Falls: John Wiehl, Ellinora Wondra.

WINONA STATE UNIVERSITY

The following students were named to the fall semester Dean’s List. Osceola: Ellie

• Ice claws

Remember, the DNR does not monitor ice conditions. However, local bait shops and fishing clubs are good sources for current conditions and fishing tips. No ice fishing gear? No problem.

To help get you started, the DNR offers loaner ice fishing equipment at 19 tackle loaner sites, https://dnr.wisconsin. gov/topic/Fishing/anglereducation/loanerContacts, around the state. Locations with ice fishing equipment will have an “IF” next to their name. Essential gear is available, although sites do not offer ice augers. Abandoned holes can be opened with a sledgehammer or spud bar.

Hours and available equipment vary, so contact the site in advance

Luebker. St. Croix Falls: Jocelyn Tate.

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN – SUPERIOR

The following students were named to the fall semester Dean’s List. Dresser: Grace Heideman. Amery: Mathea Leiskau.

BENNETT: The latest and the greatest

FROM PAGE 12

That gas auger stayed on the shelf and is still sitting there gathering dust.”

So what does Ben use to put crappies, bluegills and perch on the ice” “I like Chigger Fry plastics,” he said. “I always, with no exceptions, use a white/pink and a motor oil color that’s kinda a brown iridescent plastic. They look very ‘buggy.’ They work everywhere. Fish are all over eating

HOROSCOPES

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, charm is one of your strongest attributes. This week your magnetism is magnified and can work to your advantage. You might attract people who can help with a situation.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, it is never easy to reevaluate finances and cut back. However, this is the week when you likely have to keep your credit card in your wallet; otherwise, the bills add up.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, now is the time to turn great opportunities into big ideas. Make a plan of action and spell out the steps necessary to see an opportunity come to fruition. Ask for help, if needed.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, others are supportive of a new project you recently proposed. Maintain that sup-

CLUES ACROSS

1. This regulates cortisol production (abbr.)

5. People of northern Vietnam 8. Employee stock ownership plan 12. Regions 14. The center of a city 15. Hindu serpentine deity 16. Roared 18. Sun up in New York

19. “Sir” in Malaysian 20. Shrimp dish

21. Muckraker Tarbell 22. Apex

23. Harmonic effects

26. One of Babe Ruth’s nicknames

30. Groups in organic chemistry

31. More pleasant-tasting 32. Spring forward

33. Noted writer

34. Building occupied by monks 39. “The world’s most famous arena”

42. Colorless liquid hydrocarbon

44. Long or fast speech

46. Things you can eat

47. Substance in which magnetic moments are not aligned 49. Actor Idris

50. I (German)

51. Taxes

56. Indonesian island

57. Nuisance (slang)

58. Shawl

59. Digits

60. Moved on foot quickly

61. “For goodness __”

62. Facial body part

63. Russian river

64. Urinates

CLUES

mayfly larva and it’s a perfect match. I’m out crappie fishing a lot on the ice and I just use plastics.

“A jigging rap is my walleye goto, but it works for everything. I will put a minnow head, a fathead minnow head on the bottom hook for walleyes, but it works for everything. Nine out of 10 times I’m using a number five blue chrome jigging rap!”

Ben did go out and buy a forward facing sonar device that allows anglers to see the actual

port by staying focused on the tasks at hand. It’s time to move things along.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

You are open to new activities and friendships, Leo. Luckily, you may not have to work too hard to make these things happen. Bring new members into existing friend groups.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Do whatever it takes to have some quality time to yourself, Virgo. This may include taking a trip or booking a relaxing day at a nearby spa.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, allow some time to pass by before offering an assessment. Responding too quickly might produce a kneejerk reaction that could prove regrettable down the road.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Take extra care dealing with a sticky situation at work,

Involve

Some are tomato-based

fish, structures and anything else underwater in high definition. It reminds me of watching live TV under ice!

“I tried it but it didn’t fit down my six inch hole so I sold it. More weight and space consuming. I decided I didn’t need 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.

Scorpio. You may need to be very careful about checking for mistakes in detail-oriented tasks without stepping on any toes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You might need to bargain to get something you want this week, Sagittarius. Figure out what you are willing to give up and then identify a person you can work with.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Clear communication is needed right now, Capricorn; otherwise, you may fall victim to hearsay or crossed signals. Get the facts before sharing your opinion.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Start contemplating big changes pertaining to your employment situation, Aquarius. An opportunity might come along that proves too good to pass up.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

The feelings you have for someone will help you overlook any imperfections you have noticed, Pisces. Keep your relationship strong by focusing on this person’s good points.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 12

Zayn Malik, Singer (32)

JANUARY 13

Patrick Dempsey, Actor (59)

JANUARY 14

LL Cool J, Rapper (57)

JANUARY 15

Dove Cameron, Actress (29)

JANUARY 16

Kate Moss, Model (51)

JANUARY 17

Jim Carrey, Actor (63)

JANUARY 18

Dave Bautista, Actor (56)

Confront the common cold with this beloved seasonal staple

Everyone knows there’s no cure for the common cold. Though colds can strike at any time, cold season tends to occur when the weather cools down and people spend more time indoors. Inside viruses can circulate and spread more easily, thus leading to elevated rates of infection.

Though there might be no cure for the common cold, that does not mean people are helpless against it. Many people have their own remedies to help them manage and potentially shorten the duration of a cold, and chicken soup features prominently in those antidotes. Whether cold season is kicking into high gear or people are confronting the common cold at other times of year, they can incorporate this recipe for “Chicken Barley Soup with Vegetables courtesy of Lines+Angles into their cold remedy routines.

Chicken Barley Soup with Vegetables

Makes 6 servings

8 cups chicken stock

4 cups water

1teaspoon marjoram

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 1 medium onion, sliced 1 cup carrots, sliced 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced 1 russet potato, peeled and cubed 1 cup broccoli, chopped 1⁄2 cup barley Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

1. In a large pot, combine chicken stock, water, marjoram, rosemary, and parsley. Simmer for 15 minutes.

2. Add onion, carrots, cooked chicken, potato, broccoli, and barley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over low heat for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve.

COUNTY: Rumble strips

FROM PAGE 2

It was also noted that the sound coming from vehicles going over rumble strips can be anywhere from 60 to more than 80 decibels.

“This does tend to lead to complaints from residents that are located close by. They’re not considered bicycle-friendly. They cause accelerated asphalt deterioration … due to pooling water and additional freezethaw cycles on those. But I know it sounds like a lot of cons and that’s not what I’m trying to push. But the simple fact is that they do help reduce fatal accidents by 21% at rural intersections.”

County Sheriff Brent Waak was asked about his opinion: “I would say the illuminated stop signs, they did that I think at F and C, right? Because they had some fatals there and I think that’s been successful. So that might be a better an option just to ask the state if they would do it … but I do know when they put those illuminated stop signs, it did have an impact I think down on F and C.” Kelch went on to say that the state has been more active in approving “fog line” and “center line” rumble

strips … “So, they’re not as big a nuisance for people, the residents … the transverse rumble strips that run crossway to the lane at the intersections, those cannot be avoided and they’ll generate noise every time a vehicle hits them,” he said.

“Like I said, I’ve already contacted the engineer and got his opinion on it and he didn’t recommend rumble strips due to the lack of activity at that intersection.” Kelch indicated that there have been five reportable accidents at the intersection since 2021 with several injuries and the one fatality. “But [the engineer] not going to make a recommendation,” Kelch said.

He continued: “[The engineer] has already made a recommendation that he didn’t see the need for them there based on other intersections in the county and the other ones in the region he sees. So, I don’t know if waiting for that [Traffic Safety Committee] meeting’s going to change anything. And ultimately I think it comes down to a decision made by you to decide if that’s something we’re going to pursue.”

Type of sword

Scottish tax or

2025 Newspaper Fun!

Presidential Inauguration!

On January 20, 2025, Donald Trump will become our country’s 47th president. That date, Inauguration Day, is when a newly elected president officially takes office. President Trump’s first day will be very busy –full of speeches, services, parades, parties and dancing. Every four years, millions of people around the world watch Inauguration events on televison. Will you be watching?

Read the clues to fill in the puzzle with some fun things to know about Donald Trump.

1. ___________ 47th U.S. President in 2024

2. ___________ person to take the oath (78 years, 220 days old at Inauguration)

3. earlier, served as 45th __________ of the U.S.

4. born in __________, New York in 1946

5. _______, Mary Anne Macleod Trump, came to America from Scotland in 1930

6. ______, Fred Trump, was a real estate man from Queens, N.Y.

7. earned a _______ degree from the University of Pennsylvania

8. married to Melania Trump, the second ________ Lady born outside the U.S.; born in Slovenia 9. has five __________; Barron, his youngest son, is 18 and can speak in the Slovenian language 10. enjoys the ______ All Quiet on the Western Front 11. favorite _________: the 1941 classic, Citizen Kane 12. enjoys fast __________; likes steaks well done 13. has a star on Hollywood Walk of ____ for TV work 14. famous businessman; owns golf courses, _______ 15. played baseball, football and soccer in high school, but now enjoys __________

FNC Bank donates clothing

Over the course of their four-week campaign, FNC Bank had a goal of collecting 400 winter clothing items including coats, hats, mittens, sweatshirts, and sweatpants at each of its four branch locations. FNC Bank was able to collect more than 480 donated items. These items were distributed to Grace Place Shelter, where they will play a vital role in providing warmth to those in need throughout the winter season.